RESUMEN
Background: Vernix caseosa is a complex proteolipid material synthesized partly by fetal sebaceous glands during the last trimester of pregnancy. Understanding the structure and function of newborn skin is crucial for determining optimal thermal support, infection control, and skin moisturization. So far, in Ethiopia, there is no research done related to the distribution of vernix caseosa and associated factors on newborn skin. Doing such research could give awareness about factors associated with the distribution of vernix caseosa on newborns' skin and to take necessary protective measures for those that may be affected. Objective: The objective of this study is to assess the distribution of vernix caseosa and associated factors among newborns delivered at Adama Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Medical College from November to December 1, 2021. Methodology: Hospital-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from November to December 1, 2021 at Adama Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Medical College (ACSHMC). Four hundred twenty-two eligible newborns were selected by a systematic sampling method. Data were collected by four data collectors by using a pretested questionnaire. The distribution of vernix caseosa on the different regions of the neonate was assessed, by exposing their whole body for a minute. Data entry was done by EPI data version 4.6 and analyzed by using SPSS version 25. A logistic regression of P-value of <0.25 during bivariate and P < 0.05 during multivariate analysis at a 95% confidence level was considered statistically significant. Results: Out of 422 study participants 231 (54.7%) with 95% CI (49.8, 59.8) babies had vernix caseosa. Being primiparous with (AOR = 1.9, PV = 0.013, 95% CI: 1.141, 2.92), being multiparous with (AOR = 1.98, PV = 0.04, CI: 1.29, 3.225), being females with (AOR = 2.1, PV = 0.001, CI: 1.39, 3.18), being preterm with (AOR = 2.98, PV = 0.036, 95% CI: 1.08, 10.72), non-diseased newborns with (AOR = 1.6, PV = 0.046, 95% CI: 1.07, 2.7) were identified as associated factors for the distribution of vernix caseosa on the newborn skin. Conclusion: This study showed that the distribution of vernix caseosa on the skin of the newborns was associated with parity, sex, gestational age, and absence of disease.
RESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Despite being a common disorder, epilepsy is perhaps the neurological condition least well understood by the general public and most likely to be associated with a wide range of misconceptions. METHODS: A cross-sectional community-based survey was conducted in a predominantly rural area of central Ethiopia where there has been a continuous supply of anticonvulsant medications for the last 15 years. Our objective was to assess the impact of this treatment upon the attitudes of rural people towards epilepsy by comparing our findings to a community attitude survey conducted between 1986 and 1988. The method used is a cross-sectional survey. RESULTS: The belief that epilepsy is a contagious illness is significantly less prevalent compared to earlier days, 30.7% vs. 44.6% (P < 0.0001). Considering epilepsy to be a form of mental illness has increased in the current sample 40.9% vs. 1.9% (P < 0.0001). Attribution of the aetiology to supernatural factors is significantly diminished and the belief that epilepsy is hereditary has significantly increased. Modern anticonvulsant medications are more favoured in the current study 4.5% vs. 0.9% (p < 0.0001), although they remained unpopular with the majority who still prefer traditional treatment. In general, female respondents' knowledge about how to help a convulsing person, ways of preventing further epileptic attacks, and causes of epilepsy was significantly less than that of the male respondents. Rural dwellers also showed more negative attitudes with regard to marriage and working with a person suffering from epilepsy. Positive attitudinal changes in the past few years were reported by 119 (19%) of the respondents, and the changes were attributed to the availability of medication in the area and increased awareness through health education given at clinics. CONCLUSION: The results show ongoing negative attitudes towards epilepsy within the community. In addition to attempts to improve seizure control, our findings highlight the importance of ongoing educational programmes directed towards community misconceptions and negative attitudes about epilepsy.