SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES

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A study to determine the factors contributing to the rise in malaria prevalence in Mumbwe District of Zambia
(University of Lusaka, 2023) LUMAI, Robert
Malaria is a common and life-threatening disease caused by a plasmodium parasite, transmitted by the bite of infected mosquitoes in many tropical and subtropical areas. Malaria is caused by the protozoan parasite called Plasmodium. Human malaria is caused by four different species of Plasmodium namely P. falciparum, P. malariae, P. ovale and P. vivax. There are two categories of malaria infections namely uncomplicated and severe or complicated infection. Uncomplicated malaria lasts 6-10 hours and it consists of a cold stage, a hot stage and a sweating stage. This study sought to assess the factors that contribute to the rise in malaria prevalence in Mumbwa District. The study used quantitative research using descriptive cross-sectional study on 39 participants. The respondents were knowledgeable of the importance of using treated bed nets, the time of using it, types of nets and source of information pertaining to LLINs utilization. In this study the utilization of ITNS for respondents has shown that majority of them (74percent) were using bed nets when they went to sleep, while only a few (17percent) who were not using bed nets in regular bases during their sleep. A higher malaria prevalence is associated with a number of factors that lead to lowered malaria transmission, like increased literacy levels, higher access to malaria health awareness campaigns and health education, as well as being able to afford disease prevention methods and treatment. According to the present study, 72.3% of participants had a history of malaria infection however, only 26 were infected with malaria. In particular, individuals who had a family history of malaria were 1.53 times more likely to be infected by Plasmodium species compared to their counterparts (p < 0.00). The result showed that malaria is still one of the most serious public burdens in the study area. The main infection factors linked to the infection in the study area were age, sex, marital status, family size, use of LLIN and IRS, presence of mosquito breeding sites, and openings on their wall/roof. In addition, the main reason for rejecting LLIN is misconceptions about the toxicity of the treated net. The burden of malaria could be reduced by focusing on changing the attitudes towards malaria prevention and control through continued health education.
Adherence to Occupational Health and Safety Practices at Konkola Copper Mines, Chililabombwe District Zambia
(University of Lusaka, 2023) NALWAMBA, Patience Mbughi
In the majority of emerging nations, the modern period of globalization, fast industrialization, and urbanization have emerged as twin brothers. ILO standards on occupational safety and health provide essential tools for governments, employers, and workers to establish safe practices for providing maximum safety at work. The ISO 45001 standard serves as the foundation for the mining sector's occupational health and safety management systems in Zambia. It is probable that about 2.2 million people die annually from work related accidents and diseases, and a further 270 million workers fall victims of nonfatal occupational injuries. This results in substantial human and economic costs to workers and their families, employers, and society. The objective of this study was to assess the occupational health and safety practices at konkola copper mines. A facility based cross-sectional study was used among KCM underground miners prior to the study in 2023 in Chililabombwe district. A structure questionnaire was used to collect data. The data was analysed using STATA. The minimum age of respondents was 22 years old and the maximum was 56 years old with the mean age of 36.8 (SD=6.8) years. The majority of the participants 90(23.7%) were between 31-40 years old. Females were the most responds who adhered to occupational health and safety guidelines 43(82.69) compared to males with (28.57). The majority of respondents attended Primary (50.00) education level who adhered to occupational health and safety guidelines compared to those who attended secondary and university (33.33) and (16.67) respectively. The study concluded that there was awareness of emergency procedures and accident reporting and investigation vital for some enhancement. In general, the findings emphasize the significance of continuous education and preparation to maintain a safe and sound workplace, as well as the importance of ongoing observation and evaluation of workplace security strategies and practice. It may be necessary to enforce stricter adherence to safety guidelines and the use of personal protective equipment in order to improve safety and cut down on accidents. Training on safety rules and how to use personal protective equipment (PPE) should be given more frequently and more thoroughly.
An Assessment of Menstrual Hygiene Management among Adolescent School Girls in Mazabuka District and the Impact on their Education
(2023) MOONDE, Linda
Adolescence is a time of transition from childhood to maturity, and during this time, various changes such as menstruation take place. Menstruation is the regular flow of blood through the vaginal cavity that coincides with the shedding of the uterine mucosa. (Oyebola, 2002). Menstruation is a normal and healthy physical process for girls and women in their reproductive years however managing it presents a number of difficulties that are primarily brought on by negative cultural perception. Menstrual cycle is stigmatized in most societies and possesses hindrance to women and girls especially where participation in community activities is concerned. Menstruation tends to demoralize young girls and burden them with emotions of guilt, humiliation, and worthlessness, especially for those who may not know how to maintain the best hygiene which affects their school performance. The objective of the study was to assess the menstrual hygiene management among adolescent school girls in the district and its impact on their education. A quantitative cross-sectional study was used to conduct this research; data was collected through self-administered questionnaire which was then analyzed using SPSS version 16, the sample size (91) was obtained using Yamane formula. The study made use of multi-stage and random sampling methods in the selection of study participants. It was found that the largest number of respondents (57.3%) had family members more than five while the least number of respondents (42.7%) had family members less than 5, additionally 66.3 % were able to purchase sanitary pads while 33.7 could not manage. In relation to their knowledge on menstruation 100 % of the respondents had knowledge on the importance of bathing during menstruation however, 85.4% of the girls said menstrual blood was unclean, and 2.2% were not sure. 96.7% of those surveyed said agreed that hormonal changes in the body were to blame for menstruation. One-fourth of the respondents were not sure of the origin of menstrual blood, while 55.5% named the womb, 15.6% the abdomen, and 13.3% the bladder. The findings also indicate that 57.3% of the respondents were not frowned upon discussion of periods, 25.3 % gave correct answer about presence of harmful substances in their menses. Due to cultural differences 17.8% of the respondents did not bath regularly while on periods consequently, 37.1% demonstrated that they were missing from school because of feminine cycle and 43.8% detailed that they missed school because of period for 1-4 days in a month. More than half (51.6 %) of the respondents missed game or play because of period, while 27.3 % of the girls concurred that feminine cycle impeded them from walking far. Majority (57.6%) also indicated lack of menstrual resources such as water, 51.7 had no access to soap and 67.3 of the respondents were not able to purchase disposable sanitary pads. It was concluded that social factors affect knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to menstrual hygiene management among adolescents in peri-urban schools, Culture, lack of knowledge and economic reasons have greater impact on menstrual hygiene among school going children, hence government and key stakeholders need to put up measures into ensuring that schools have a girl-friendly environment, where resources like running water, soap, and sanitary facilities are available.
An exploration of factors leading to improper electrical waste disposal in Matero, Lusaka Province
(2022) PEREIRA, Owen
E-waste refers to electrical/Electronic gadgets that are discarded or no longer of use by the purchaser (Sansa-Otim et al. 2012). The rapid climb in electronic and IT trade has increased the volumes of e-waste in Zambia. In most urban areas, “due to uncertainty of the ways to treat e-waste, when electronic products reach their end life, electronic junks lie unattended in shops, offices, homes, etc and is commonly mixed with family waste, that is finally disposed of at waste disposal points which may be hazardous as the e-waste is not sorted and separated.” In this context, the research aims to explore the factors that lead to improper disposal of e-waste in Matero. The study utilized a qualitative approach and made use of a cross-sectional study design, data was collected through interview guides and was analyzed through themes and coding. The sample size was 31 and the sampling technique used was purposive sampling. The data collected was analyzed thematically (Thematic analysis). It was found that (6%) had attended primary education, (65%) had attended secondary education and (29%) attained tertiary education. Despite majority attaining some level of education, majority of the participants had little or no knowledge on e-waste management. Knowledge on e-waste was highly dependent on the level of education. The study also revealed that most participants were not aware about e-waste, whereas only a few had an idea on what e-waste was and social factors such as knowledge and education played a pivotal role in management of e-waste as most participants did not know what e-waste was, as e-waste was treated like any other waste. Furthermore, most participants stated that economic factors such as income and infrastructure influenced the management of e-waste, as it was highlighted that the indiscriminate disposal of e-waste is because of the lack of adequate infrastructure and that income is the reason why there is more e-waste in the area and people don't mind the management of e-waste because they know less about its effects as they are only trying to earn a living by dealing with it. Lastly it was noted that personal factors such as attitudes tend to influence the behaviour and practice of waste management in Matero. The study concluded that social, economic, and personal factors do indeed play a pivotal role in influencing the proper management of e-waste in Matero.
Assessing Factors associated with Stress among Nursing Students at Choma College of Nursing in Choma District
(University of Lusaka, 2023) HAZEMBA, Natasha
Stress is a sensation of emotive or physical pressure (MedlinePlus , 2022). Stress can originate from any incident or thought that makes one feel unfulfilled, annoyed, or anxious. Stress is also defined as any type of adjustment that causes physical, emotive, or psychological tension (Scott, 2022).This research assessed the factors associated with stress among nursing students at Choma College of Nursing. The researcher explored, academic factors, personal factors, environmental factors and stress levels. The main objective was to identify risk factors associated with stress among nursing students of Choma College of Nursing. The study espoused a quantitative study approach and the study design engaged was in this study was a cross-sectional study as it is considered the most operative when looking at factors associated with stress among nursing students. Data was collected using a structured survey and a professed stress scale for measuring stress levels for the stress scores was used. From the results obtained 79.6% of the sampled population showed high levels of stress and 20.4% showed moderate levels of stress. Among the sampled no participant showed low levels of stress. The study had more female participants 54.6% than males 45.4%. The findings showed academic factors, examinations to be the most stressful factor among the study participants though the results were statistically insignificant with a p-value 0.949>0.05 which showed that there was no significant difference between the two groups (stress and examinations). Majority of the participants were above 20 years 77.6% and less than or equal to 20 years 22.4%, with mean age 24.32 and standard deviation 4.91622 of which the minimum age was 17 and maximum 40. The study consisted of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd years of which the majority of the students were the 3rd years 50.0%, 2nd year 31.6% and 1st years 18.4%. This study provides some unique evidence that stress at Choma College of Nursing is prominent among students and is mostly as a result of academic factors. Academic factors such as examinations, workload and assignments were reported as the most cause of stress among the students. High levels of stress have been under looked among students because there are no infringements that have been executed to help nursing students deal with stress in their learning environment.
Assessing Infection Control Practices Among Health Care Workers At Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital: A Knowledge, Attitudes And Practice Study
(University of Lusaka, 2025) KHOTA AMMAARAH
This study investigates the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding infection prevention and control (IPC) among healthcare workers at Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital. The primary aim was to evaluate how these dimensions interact and influence IPC compliance, with a specific focus on role-based differences and structural barriers. A cross-sectional design was employed, involving 30 healthcare workers across various roles. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed high knowledge levels (M = 2.90/3) and positive attitudes (M = 1.70/2), yet practice scores were more varied (M = 3.00/5). Notably, attitude significantly correlated with practice (r = .35, p = .047), while knowledge did not. Practice scores differed significantly by job role (F(3,26) = 5.67, p = .004), with nurses exhibiting the highest compliance. Structural barriers such as lack of resources (53%) and high patient loads (30%) emerged as critical deterrents to IPC adherence. These results underscore the importance of targeted, role-specific interventions that go beyond knowledge dissemination. Enhancing attitudes, improving resource availability, and implementing structured monitoring systems are recommended to strengthen IPC adherence and safeguard patient safety.
Assessing The Efficacy Of Modern Medicine Compared To Herbal Medicine In Treating Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 Patients At Levy Mwanawasa Hospital
(University of Lusaka, 2024) MURAMBIWA MELISSA
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a growing public health concern in Zambia, with many patients turning to both modern and herbal treatments for management. Understanding the comparative effectiveness, adherence, and safety of these options is essential for improving patient outcomes. This study aimed to compare the efficacy, adherence, and side-effect profiles of modern and herbal medicines in managing T2DM at Levy Mwanawasa Hospital. A mixed-methods cross-sectional study was conducted among 50 T2DM patients, 30 using modern medicine and 20 using herbal remedies. Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests (t-tests and chi-square). Qualitative data were obtained via open-ended questions and thematically analyzed. Modern medicine users reported significantly higher perceived effectiveness (mean score: 4.1) compared to herbal users (mean score: 2.9; p < 0.001). Adherence was also higher in the modern group (75%) than in the herbal group (40%; p = 0.018). However, the modern group experienced a higher frequency of side effects (50% vs 20%; p = 0.024). Qualitative findings revealed that cultural beliefs, cost, and perceived natural safety influenced herbal use, while modern medicine was favored for its reliability and clinical support. Modern medicine appears more effective and better adhered to in managing T2DM, though it is associated with more side effects. Herbal remedies are perceived as safer but less effective and inconsistently used. A culturally sensitive, integrative approach combining biomedical care with validated traditional practices may enhance diabetes management in Zambia.
Assessing The Impact Of Interdepartmental Communication On Patient Mortality At Levy Mwanawasa Teaching Hospital
(University of Lusaka, 2025) Lubemba Lupando Bupe
Effective communication between hospital departments plays a critical role in patient safety and care outcomes. At Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital, gaps in interdepartmental communication may be contributing to preventable patient mortality. This study draws on Systems Theory, Social Exchange Theory, and Human Error Theory to explore how communication failures within hospital systems affect patient outcomes. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of interdepartmental communication on patient mortality and to identify communication-related challenges and potential solutions within the hospital setting. A qualitative research design was employed, using open-ended survey questions distributed to healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and technicians. The responses were analyzed thematically to identify recurring issues and insights regarding communication practices and their influence on patient outcomes. The analysis revealed recurring challenges such as inadequate communication tools, delayed departmental responses, lack of structured training, and poor coordination during emergencies. Participants emphasized the need for regular interdepartmental meetings, reliable communication devices, and a work culture that encourages staff to voice concerns about patient safety. Although the study did not quantify the relationship between communication and mortality, the qualitative evidence indicates a strong association between poor communication and preventable patient deaths. The study recommends implementing structured communication frameworks like SBAR, investing in modern communication technologies, and enhancing staff training. These measures are essential for improving interdepartmental communication and ultimately reducing patient mortality.
Assessing The Incidence And Risk Factors Of Postpartum Haemorrhage In Pregenant Women At Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital
(University of Lusaka, 2025) SEBIKIRI KEMO ONE
Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is the leading cause of maternal mortality and an obstetric emergency that complicates 1-10% of all deliveries and require appropriate training for effective prevention, recognition and management. The aim of this study is to assess the incidence and risk factors of postpartum haemorrhage among pregnant women at Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching hospital. The main objective of the study was to determine the incidence of postpartum haemorrhage among patients delivering at Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital. This was a retrospective cohort study with a quantitative approach of 278 medical files. The data was analysed using SPSS version 26 and Microsoft excel and was presented in the form of frequency tables, bar charts, pie charts and histograms. The findings from an analysis of 203 medical records, revealed that 13.8% (28 cases) developed PPH. The majority of affected women were under 30 (82.2%), particularly those aged 25 to 29 (53.6%). Most PPH patients were Gravida 3 (39.3%) and Para 2 (35.7%). PPH primarily occurred at term (35.7%) and at 37 weeks of gestation (21.4%), with most deliveries being spontaneous vaginal births (89.3%). Prolonged labor emerged as the main clinical risk factor, affecting 35.7% of cases. The outcome was generally positive, with 92.9% of women discharged and only 7.1% resulting in death. Regression analysis indicated that age (p = 0.002) and gestational age (p < 0.001) were significant predictors of PPH, highlighting that younger and preterm patients are at greater risk.
Assessing the knowledge and attitudes associated with abortion among female students at the University of Lusaka
(University of Lusaka, 2025) NAMBEYE, Temwa
Abortion is an issue of public health concern as there are millions of induced abortions being recorded each year globally. The biggest problem about abortion is that most of them are unsafe and they contribute to 13% of maternal related deaths worldwide. There have been efforts to address unsafe abortion such as the introduction of comprehensive abortion care by the World Health organization, however, there is still a large number of women who resort to unsafe abortion due to different factors. In Zambia, abortion was legalized under the termination of pregnancy (TOP) act but despite this intervention, comprehensive abortion care remains inaccessible to most women in Zambia. To assess the knowledge and attitudes associated to abortion among female students at the University of Lusaka. This was a qualitative study conducted at the University of Lusaka, Leopards hill campus and convenience sampling was used to select the sample. Data collection was done by carrying out in-depth interviews and thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Results of the study indicate that female students the University of Lusaka have sufficient and good knowledge on the causes of abortion and the consequences of unsafe abortion. The results revealed that most of the female students had adequate knowledge on the legality of abortion in Zambia and that they have a positive attitude towards safe abortion. The factors in the conceptual framework that were associated to the knowledge and attitudes that one would have towards abortion were discussed and they include age, level of education and religion. The results of the study indicate that knowledge and attitudes towards abortion were related to age, level of education and religion.
Assessing the knowledge, attitudes and practices on malaria interventions among Mansa residents in Luapula Province
(University of Lusaka, 2025) MWEWA, Tom M
In Zambia, Northern, North Western, Muchinga, and Luapula Province are the region’s most susceptible to the disease due to the excessive rainfall they have in those seasons. The prevalence in the province of Luapula is 600 to 700 cases per 1000 population annually. The highest rate of malaria in Luapula Province has been recorded in Mansa and it was found that Mansa had a total population of 257,517 with a total of 189,407cases of which 86% were laboratory confirmed and recorded in the year 2015. The qualitative research was conducted with a case study design and data was collected through in-depth interviews and questionnaires (N = 20) focused on pregnant women, mothers of under-five children. The results showed that most participants had knowledge about Malaria prevention intervention and positive attitudes towards them. In spite of this few participants were still not aware and had prioritized other means of dealing with malaria. The majority of study participants had awareness of malaria or were well informed about it, however some participant’s attitudes and practises were contrary to the matter. Health institutions offer free malaria treatment and routine IRS spraying, but because of unfavourable experiences and a lack of awareness, the initiative has not been able to get the necessary full coverage.
Assessing the level of effort made by teachers at Chilenje Basic School towards the fight against COVID-19.
(2023) SINYINZA, Saul
COVID-19, which is caused by a virus commonly known as SARS-CoV-2, was first discovered in December 2019 in the city of Wuhan, China (Caruso, 2020). Since then, it has continued to spread worldwide, and Zambia documented its first case of “Covid-19” on 18th March “2020. The virus spreads from infected persons in small liquid particles through the mouth or nose whenever they speak, breathe, cough, sneeze, or sing.” The rapid spread of the pandemic has a negative effect on various human activities, such as economic and educational activities, including people’s way of life. The impact of COVID-19 affected the educational sector in schools, colleges and universities were subsequently closed. This study used a qualitative approach method and an investigative case study design to analyze a data sample of 10 respondents. The respondents were chosen using a data saturation purposive sampling procedure, data was collected from Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and In-Depth Interviews (IDI) using the interview guide, and data was analyzed using thematic analysis. According to the findings of this study the respondents were trained on the need to provide supportive services during Covid-19, the teachers received training on technologies to help them communicate with different stakeholders, sensitization on Covid-19 as well as how to practice and ensure physical distancing among students. It was found that wearing of face masks, handwashing and checking of temperature were successfully and effectively employed while physical distancing was not effective. Among the challenges were weakness in social prevention and risk communication, lack of proper inequality as well as poor economic situation. Teachers are part of key stakeholders in the fight of epidemic diseases such as the Covid-19, for them to effectively contribute towards the fight of Covid-19 they require support from the government and other partners such as parents who are critical in the sense that the pupils respect the guidance from the teacher they are required to work together.
Assessing the Mental Health Care and Theraphy Service Delivery at Lewanika General Hospital, Mongu
(2022) SIMANDI, Monde
Access to mental health services is a serious issue worldwide, but it is particularly acute in underdeveloped nations like Zambia. Mental disorders, despite their importance in the comparison to other maladies such as infectious conditions, the global burden of disease receives less attention at the global, regional, and local levels. The objectives were to identify systems of treatment for mental illnesses, explore local concepts about mental illness and how these influence access to mental health services and to find out the experiences of people in accessing mental health services at Lewanika hospital in Mongu. A qualitative study was used in this research Study design It's exploratory because it goes further into an issue that hasn't previously been completely studied, with the purpose of identifying priorities, generating operational definitions, and refining the final. The study population was drawn from the residents of Mongu .An upper limit of 15 participants was used in the study according to the recommended number for qualitative type of research Data collection technique. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data obtained, which involved use of services has also been hampered by stigma from health care practitioners, the community, and family members. Lack of prioritising of mental health services in primary and certain secondary health institutions, as well as a lack of or limited awareness of mental health disorders, have contributed to the stigma. Despite its neglect, excellent mental health benefits everyone, thus these barriers must be overcome.The provided information that might be valuable in resolving obstacles at three levels: policy, facility, and individual, based on the research conducted. It can also help with the implementation of mental health policies because the roots of these impediments have been identified.
Assessment of Awareness and Attitudes towards Non- Communicable Diseases among Kabwata Residents in Lusaka, Zambia
(University of Lusaka, 2023) KAMANGA, Kazamawa
The steady rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) worldwide is a key challenge on the global health agenda. The World Health Organization (2018b) estimated that 41 million of the 57 million deaths in 2016 were due to NCDs, the majority of which (78%) occurred in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The prevalence of major NCDs including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is increasing, and they remain a challenge for both high-income countries (HICs) and LMICs. In Zambia, Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a significant public health concern, as they are in many other countries. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), NCDs are estimated to account for approximately 31% of all deaths in Zambia. The four main types of NCDs in Zambia are cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes. Most studies that have been conducted in Zambia on NCDs have largely focused on quantifying the disease burden and the associated risk factors with little or no focus on the community awareness. A cross sectional study was conducted, and a total of 110 participants were randomly selected. Data was collected using structured questionnaire and analyzed using Microsoft excel and STATA version 14.0. The variables that were considered during the analysis included awareness, attitudes and risk factors associated with non-communicable diseases. The results showed that most of the participants had heard about NCDs (53%) and were aware of the risk factors associated with these diseases (85%). However, only 42% of the respondents had received information on prevention and management of NCDs. The study also revealed that most of the participants had a positive attitude towards NCD prevention and management, with 86% indicating a willingness to change their lifestyle to prevent NCDs. Limited number of respondents were aware about NCDs related complications, risk factors and its treatment. In addition, attitudes of respondents about NCDs were favorable and thus suggesting some level of understanding about NCDs. Overall, the study highlights the need for increased education and awareness campaigns on NCDs in Kabwata. This will help to improve the knowledge and attitudes towards NCDs and ultimately reduce the burden of the disease in the community.
Assessment of awareness of health implications caused by the use of shisha smoking among at the University of Lusaka
(University of Lusaka, 2025) MUSONDA, Twaambo
Shisha smoking has become increasingly popular among university students in Zambia, despite evidence of its adverse health effects. However, little is known about the awareness of these health implications among this population. This qualitative study aims to assess the awareness of health implications caused by the use of shisha smoking among students at the University of Lusaka. A qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews was used to collect data from 20 university students who were regular shisha smokers. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling, and interviews were conducted face-to-face. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Various key themes emerged from the data analysis following in line with the three research focus areas: (1) The level of awareness among students at the University of Lusaka regarding the health implications caused by the use of shisha smoking, (2) Where the students get or access the Shisha from; (3) How students at the University of Lusaka perceive and respond to the use of shisha smoking? Most participants had some knowledge about the health implications of shisha smoking, with some believing that shisha was less harmful than cigarettes. However, the study found that social and cultural factors such as peer pressure, perceived social status, and cultural traditions influenced the uptake and continuation of shisha smoking. The study highlights the need for increased awareness and education about the health implications of shisha smoking among university students in Zambia. Interventions should address misconceptions about the relative safety of shisha compared to other forms of tobacco and also take into account social and cultural factors that contribute to its popularity. These findings may inform future public health campaigns and policies aimed at reducing the prevalence of shisha smoking among university students in Zambia. Keywords: Shisha smoking, health implications, awareness, university students, Zambia.
Assessment of factors Influencing a Pregnant Woman's Choice of Place of Delivery in Chipembe: A Phenomenological Study
(2023) KALE, Richard Victor
The health of a mother contributes greatly to the health of the unborn child. All decisions a pregnant woman makes affect the unborn baby. About 2.4 million neonatal deaths were recorded in 2019 and 293 maternal deaths recorded in 2017 world over. It was estimated that 56% of maternal deaths were from Sub-Saharan Africa. In Chipembe community, pregnant women do not have the privileges that women who live in cities and big towns enjoy. The bad roads, poor modes of transport, lack of formal jobs, limited business opportunities, illiteracy, lack of formal private health care providers, lack of exposure etc. are few of the many barriers that hinder them from accessing care. These obviously affect their health seeking behaviour. Place of delivery is an important contributing factor to a safe delivery. Therefore, a pregnant woman must choose a place of delivery that will guarantee a safe delivery. This study sought to investigate factors which influenced pregnant women’s choice of place of delivery in Chipembe community. This was qualitative study approach, using a Phenomenological study design and data collection tools were a questionnaire, theme table and phone recorder. The sampling method employed the principle of saturation. The data were analysed using thematic analysis method. The most patronised place of delivery in Chipembe Community among the participants was Chipembe Mission Rural Health Centre. Factors that influenced participants’ choice of place of delivery included: the first-time-mother and multiparous-mother policy, which forced participants in the category to deliver from the Nyimba District Hospital or any other similar level Hospital or higher; Distance to the nearest health centre; HIV Positive status; Anaemia; Financial/Economic status; History of abortion; No delivery room in the local health centre; staff attitude; illiteracy; Having a friend who is a health worker; Gifts/incentives; Fear of complications; and many more. The study findings fit into the Three-Delay Model of health seeking behaviour by pregnant women. Factors such as lack of knowledge about their right to choose, illiteracy, parity etc. are typical examples of the first delay. The Second-Delay includes distance to the Health Centre, poor roads, and financial/economic status. The Third-Delay includes staff attitude, practitioner’s skill and others. Keywords: Place of delivery; pregnant women; Chipembe
Assessment Of First Aid Knowledge And Skills Among Medical Students At The University Of Lusaka
(University of Lusaka, 2025) MUCHIMA NANCY
First aid is a critical skill that all medical professionals must possess to respond effectively in emergency situations. Despite its importance, gaps in practical proficiency and long-term retention of first aid knowledge among medical students have been observed in many contexts, including Zambia. The study assessed the first aid knowledge and skills among medical students at the University of Lusaka. This study employed a cross-sectional descriptive design and targeted medical students enrolled in the MBChB program at the University of Lusaka. A stratified random sampling method was used to ensure representation from all academic years. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods with the aid of SPSS software. Findings revealed that most students demonstrated strong theoretical knowledge, with 98.8% correctly identifying the purpose of first aid and 93.3% accurately reporting the primary survey sequence. However, practical exposure was limited—only 31.7% had administered first aid, and just 27.4% had practiced using simulation tools. Confidence in key procedures such as CPR was low, with 48.8% reporting they were not confident. Students overwhelmingly preferred hands-on learning (93.3%) and cited lack of practice and training equipment as barriers to skill retention. There was also strong support (92.7%) for peer-led clubs and integration of first aid into the core curriculum. All objectives of the study were successfully achieved, providing a clear picture of current knowledge levels, practical gaps, and actionable areas for improving first aid training among medical students at the University of Lusaka.
Assessment of Knowledge, Perceptions and Attitudes on the Uptake of Covid-19 Vaccines among students of the University of Lusaka
(University of Lusaka, 2023) CHIPILI, Mulenga Cecilia
Lack of trust in recommended vaccines and providers, complacency regarding the value of immunisation, and perceptions of how simple it is to obtain can all have an impact. All of these are influenced by the environment (such as culture or history), as well as by the person and the vaccine in question. The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes on the uptake of covid-19 vaccines among students of the university of Lusaka. The study employed a qualitative exploratory research design method using a purposive sampling approach which sampled 10 respondents. In-depth interviews were conducted to gather data. Study data were analysed manually using the thematic analysis technique. A total of 11 in-depth face-face interviews were conducted, between March and April 2023. Twelve overarching themes were identified: (1) Protection from illness and spread of the virus, (2) Peace of mind and social engagement, (3) Concerns about side effects, (4) Trust in science and evidence, (5) Personal choice, (6) Protection from illness and spread of the virus, (7) Peace of mind and social engagement, (8) Concerns about side effects, (9) Trust in science and evidence, (10) Personal choice, (11) Trust and Confidence, (12) Skepticism and Uncertainty. Generally, Students are knowledgeable on the types of vaccines used in Zambia and their importance to their health. They are also likely to get information from trusted sources. However, they are skeptical when it comes to the situation in Zambia. This study provides an initial evidence base of students’ knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccines. The study emphasises that sufficient knowledge and awareness about COVID-19, trust in government measures, and adherence to safety measures, are necessary in stopping the spread of COVID-19 virus.
Assessment of Prevention and Control of Scabies in Kabipupu of Mufumbwe District
(University of Lusaka, 2023) CHISHA, Wallen
Scabies has the highest prevalence in hot, humid climates such as the Pacific and Latin American regions several studies reported prevention and control of scabies, however prevention and control of scabies remains to be accomplished. Scabies is a contagious skin infection caused by the infestation of a mite known as Sarcoptes Scabiei. The mite burrows under the skin and cause severe itching, which is especially intense during night time. Scabies is mainly transmitted through skin to skin contact, making family members and close contacts at higher risk.Scabies causes a host immune response which is intensely itchy. Scratching of the lesions can lead to secondary bacterial infections of the skin, such as impetigo this can have fatal consequences, such as septicaemia, Advances over the past 5 years indicate that mass drug administration, washing clothes and beddings with soap, not exchanging clothes of towels and avoiding staying in overcrowded homes are common effective strategies to control and prevent scabies from spreading. On the other hand once the diagnosis of scabies is established, not only the patient but also close contacts should receive treatment with either a topical medication (such as permethrin 5% cream) or a systemic drug (ivermectin) or both. Keywords: burrow, eggs, ivermectin, mite, permethrin, Sarcoptes scabiei, scabies, prevalence, contagious
Associated Factors of Drug Resistance among Tuberculosis Patients at Kafue District Hospital
(University of Lusaka, 2023) SABAO, Nathan
Drug resistance in tuberculosis (TB) poses a significant public health challenge worldwide. This dissertation investigates the associated factors contributing to drug resistance among TB patients, shedding light on critical aspects of TB management and control. The study employed a mixed methods approach, including retrospective patient record analysis and qualitative interviews. The analysis of patient records revealed a concerning rise in drug resistance rates, particularly at Kafue District Hospital. Factors associated with drug resistance included inadequate treatment adherence, previous TB treatment history, and comorbidities such as HIV infection. Qualitative interviews with TB patients and healthcare providers provided valuable insights into the social and healthcare-related determinants of drug resistance. Stigmatization, economic constraints, and limited access to quality healthcare services emerged as significant challenges faced by TB patients. This dissertation underscores the multifaceted nature of drug resistance among TB patients. It highlights the urgent need for tailored interventions, improved treatment adherence support, and enhanced access to comprehensive healthcare services. Addressing these factors is crucial to mitigating the growing threat of drug-resistant TB and advancing global efforts toward TB control and elimination.