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Item Determinants of Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Artisanal and Small‑scale Mining Communities of Uganda(BMC Public Health, 2025-05-24) Betty Kwagala; Hanna Chidwick; Deborah Mensah; John Bosco Asiimwe; Stephen Ojiambo Wandera; Miriam Mutabazi; Fred Ngabirano; Lydia Osei; Lydia KapiririBackground The artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector has become an important employer in mineral rich countries of sub Saharan Africa where women constitute up to half of the labour force. However, gender and socio-economic marginalization negatively impact the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) of the adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) who work in the ASM sector. Despite the growing literature on adolescents’ SRH, there is a paucity of literature on the SRH of this last mile population. This paper fills this gap in the literature by examining the prevalence and determinants of self reported sexually transmitted infection (STI) status among AGYW in the ASM gold mining sectors of Uganda. Methods The paper is based on 636 AGYW working in the mining sectors in Uganda who had ever had sex. Descriptive analysis involved frequency distributions and chi squared tests. Multivariable analysis involved fitting a binary logistic regression model to assess the determinants of self reported STI status of the AGYW. Results Almost half (47%) of the respondents had a self reported STI during the 12 months preceding the study. The odds of reporting an STI were higher among adult young women compared with minors (AOR = 3.35; 95% CI 1.82 – 6.16); AGYW with primary level of education compared to those with none (AOR = 2.89; 95% CI 1.24 – 6.75); who drank alcohol (AOR 1.59; 95% CI 1.06—2.39); and engaged in transactional sex (AOR 2.42; 95% CI 1.37 – 4.28). Conclusions The results highlight the urgent need to respond to the high prevalence of self reported STIs among AGYW in ASM. The risk factors constitute multiple and intersecting vulnerabilities that require both preventive and curative interventions targeting female and male ASM workers and host communities, with emphasis on behavioral change and promotion of viable alternative sources of income. The ministries of Health, Gender, Labour and Social Development and key development partners should adopt a multi sectoral approach that effectively engages key stakeholders, including mining host communities, given the close interrelations between gender, health and economic aspects of the AGYW’s lives.ckground Artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) is an important source of minerals globally [1, 2]. The sector is a significaItem Influence of Motivational Strategies on Tutors’ Performance: A Case of Teacher Training Institutions in Eastern Uganda(East African Journal of Education and Social Sciences, 2025-08-08) Margaret Sarah Nafuna; Joel Yawe Masagazi; David Andrew OmonaThe purpose of this study was to examine the effect of motivational strategies on the performance of tutors among Teacher Training Institutions (TTIs) in Eastern Uganda. A multiple-case study design was adopted to explore both intrinsic and extrinsic motivational efforts. The study population comprised tutors, principals, deputy principals and members of Boards of Governors from three Core Primary Teacher Colleges. Using a purposive sampling procedure, 66participantswere selected, including 45 tutors, 3 principals, 6 deputy principals, and 12 Board members, based on their direct involvement in teacher education and institutional management. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. Thematic analysis identified key patterns and relationships between motivation and tutor performance. The findings show that motivation influences autonomy, engagement, job satisfaction and teaching effectiveness. Professional growth opportunities, recognition and structured feedback systems were critical in sustaining the motivation. The study concludes that a multifaceted motivational framework grounded in selected theoretical frameworks enhances the performance of tutors and institutional productivity. It recommends that TTIs institutionalize transparent goal-setting, equitable reward systems, continuous professional development and supportive feedback mechanisms to strengthen motivation and overall educational outcomes.Item Digital Communication and Mentor-ship: The Use of WhatsApp in Bishop Stuart University, Uganda(Journal of the East Africa Communication Association, 2025-08) Pamela Tumwebaze; Samuel Kazibwe; John Mulindwa KitayimbwaThe purpose of the study was to examine the effectiveness of using WhatsApp communication to achieve a successful mentor-ship experience for both the mentor and the mentee in Bishop Stuart University (BSU). Indepth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted on a sample of 62 respondents who included mentors, mentees and social media experts. The study was guided by the communication affordances theory. The study revealed that WhatsApp has introduced more potentialities for mentor-ship programmes in BSU. However, the opportunities come with several challenges such as limited access to digital tools, limited digital literacy among the mentors and mentees, poor internet connection, mentees and mentors’ fatigue, among others. To overcome the existing challenges, the study recommends a number measures including vigilant planning, adaptability, and clear communication.Item The Impact of Strategic Leadership and Committee Practices, Ethics Training, and Whistleblowing on Fraud Prevention in Churches(International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 2024-05-24) Wasswa Asaph SenogaPurpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of strategic leadership and committee practices, ethics training, whistleblowing, and their effects on the Fraud prevention of Churches. Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected from 12 surveys conducted in the church of Uganda dioceses in central Uganda. Regression analysis was conducted to examine the relationships between the impact of Strategic leadership and Committee practices, ethics training, whistleblowing, and fraud prevention. Findings – The findings revealed that strategic leadership and committee practices, ethics training, and whistleblowing significantly contribute to positive fraud prevention for Church finances. Practical implications – In order for Churches to prevent fraud, serious emphasis on strategic leadership, ethics training, and whistleblowing is vital. Originality/value – According to the author’s understanding, this is one of the first empirical studies to assess the impact of strategic leadership and committee practices, ethics training, and whistleblowing on fraud prevention in the Church of Uganda.Item Effectiveness of Regulatory Compliance, Auditing, Physical Assets Control Practices on Financial Performance in Churches(International Journal of research innovation in social science, 2023-04-22) Wasswa Asaph SenogaThe purpose of this study is to explore the effect control practices of compliance with rules and policies, internal auditing, and Physical access control to assets and financial documents in enhancing the financial performance of churches. The study was guided by agency theory. The positivist philosophy guided the selection of appropriate methodologies for this research. It adopted a survey research design with a quantitative approach to explore the relationship between the variables and test hypotheses. This study used primary data gathered from questionnaires issued to twelve church leaders in the central dioceses of the Church of Uganda. Cronbach’s alpha was applied to test the reliability of the research instruments. A multiple regression model using SPSS version 20 was used to analyze the obtained data and test the hypotheses. The findings demonstrated that compliance with rules and policies, internal auditing, and Physical access control to assets and financial documents have a substantial influence on the financial performance in the administration of church money. Based on the findings, the church management should develop effective compliance with rules and policies, internal auditing, and Physical access control to assets and financial documents to improve the church’s financial performance.Item Effect of Financial Skills, Knowledge, and Attitude on The Financial Behaviour of Clergy(International Journal of Reseach and Innovation in Social Science, 2025-09-01) Wasswa Asaph SenogaFinancial literacy, covering knowledge, skills, and attitudes toward money, may empower clergy to make more discerning financial decisions. This study examined how the financial knowledge, skills, and attitudes of clergy in the Mukono diocese influenced their financial behaviour. The data collection approach employed was quantitative research, and 94 clergy from the Mukono diocese were selected using purposive sampling. We employed multiple linear regression analysis. The results reveal that financial knowledge, financial skills, and financial attitudes all exert a significant effect on financial behaviour. We evaluated hypotheses H1, H2, and H3, and all three were affirmed. The independent factors X1 (financial skills), X2 (financial knowledge), and X3 (financial attitudes) significantly positively influence the dependent variable (financial behaviour). This survey indicates that clergy possess considerable financial acumen. Clergy can demonstrate responsibility and awareness by utilizing their financial skills, knowledge, and attitudes to make more insightful decisions.Item Institutional Mediation and Teacher Engagement: A Contextual Model for ELearning Uptake in Uganda's Universal Secondary Education Schools(East African Nature & Science Organisation, 2025-09-17) Nantagya Grace Ssebanakitta; Joel Yawe Masagazi; Mary Kagoire Ocheng; Kyakulumbye StephenThis study, titled "Institutional Mediation and Teacher Engagement: A Contextual Model for E-Learning Uptake in Uganda's Universal Secondary Education Schools," investigates the strategies employed by teachers to overcome barriers to e-learning adoption within low-resource educational settings. Specifically, it explores how teachers in Kampala-based USE schools adapt to infrastructural, institutional, and pedagogical challenges, and proposes a contextual model to guide future integration efforts. Guided by the overarching objective to identify teacher-led strategies for navigating e-learning challenges, the study employed a convergent parallel mixed-methods design, combining quantitative data from 393 teachers and qualitative insights from 10 headteachers across all USE schools in Kampala City. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, with rigorous procedures to ensure validity, trustworthiness, and triangulation. The findings reveal that teachers employed a combination of personal, peer-based, and institutionally facilitated strategies, including the use of personal devices, offline content sharing, peer mentorship, rotational scheduling, and community-supported ICT resource mobilization. Despite their creativity and adaptability, these coping mechanisms were often fragmented, inconsistent, and dependent on individual initiative rather than system-wide planning. Qualitative insights underscored the critical role of empathetic leadership, flexible budgeting, and informal CPD structures in supporting these grassroots innovations. Drawing on Constructivism, Connectivism, Technology-Mediated Learning Theory (TMLT), and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), the study developed the Institutionally Mediated E-Learning Uptake Model (IMELUM). This model highlights the dynamic interplay between infrastructural readiness, leadership support, teacher competence, and institutional culture as key mediators of sustainable e-learning engagement. The study concludes that while teacher-led coping strategies are commendable, they are insufficient without systemic institutional support, strategic policy alignment, and sustained investment. It recommends formalizing grassroots innovations into national digital education frameworks, strengthening school-level professional development, and incentivizing collaborative partnerships. Suggested directions for further research include: evaluating the long-term impact of peer mentorship on e-learning competence, assessing the role of institutional leadership in sustaining digital transformation, and investigating scalable funding models for ICT integration in secondary schools.Item The Effect of Accountability, Transparency, And Integrity of Church Leaders on Fraud Prevention in The Management of Church Funds(International Journal of Reseach and Innovation in Social Science, 2023-01-01) Wasswa Asaph SenogaThe purpose of this study is to explore the present practices of accountability, transparency, church leaders’ integrity, and fraud prevention activities in handling church finances. The study was guided by agency theory, Stakeholders theory, and the Theory of Planned behavior. The positivist philosophy guided the selection of appropriate methodologies for this research. It adopted a survey research design with a quantitative approach to explore the relationship between the variables and test hypotheses. This study used primary data gathered from questionnaires issued to twelve church leaders in the central dioceses of the Church of Uganda. Cronbach’s alpha was applied to test the reliability of the research instruments. A multiple regression model using SPSS version 20 was used to analyze the obtained data and test the hypotheses. The findings demonstrated that accountability, transparency, and Integrity of Church leaders have a substantial influence on the prevention of fraud in the administration of church money. Based on the findings, the church management should develop effective accountability, Transparency, and integrity system to attract potential donors and make church money management affordable.Item Information Sources, Gender and Risk Perceptions Understanding Health Behavior in Times of Crisis(A Journal of the East Africa Communication Association, 2025-08) Samuel Kazibwe; Angela NapakolThe purpose of this research was to establish whether gender differences influenced the health seeking behavior of Ugandans during the peak of the COVID – 19 Pandemic. The Health Belief Model was used as the theoretical framework. The study used survey method, specifically online and physical questionnaires to collect data. For the online questionnaires, Google Forms were developed and shared through email, on WhatsApp groups and on Facebook. Contrary to the existing literature, the paper discovered that the health behaviors of respondents during the COVID – 19 crises in Uganda were not strictly gendered. Previous research has frequently characterized gendered health behaviors in binary terms, casting women as health-conscious and risk-averse, and men as risk-prone and disengaged. However, the data from this study reveal a more intricate and context-dependent pattern. For instance, both female and male respondents largely rejected conspiracy theories regarding vaccine safety and COVID-19 mortality, indicating a shared skepticism toward misinformation and a collective inclination toward evidence-based interpretations of the pandemic. In sum, although gender continues to play a salient role in shaping health-seeking behavior, particularly in the face of novel health risks, this study underscores that these behaviors cannot be solely or uniformly attributed to gender.Item Application of Cadherin cRNA Probes in Brains of Alzheimer’s Disease(Springer Nature, 2024-03-17) Zhou He; Du Shijia; Fred Gendi; LI Haoyue; Fu Jia; Chang ChengThe cadherin superfamily molecules, functioning as cell adhesion molecules, are recognized to play roles in both physiological and pathological processes. The cadherin-based adherent junction (CAJ) is believed to interact with presenilin-1 (PS-1), suggesting that disruptions in CAJ structures might contribute to neurodegeneration, potentially leading to Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Yet, the specific expression patterns of cadherin superfamily mRNA remain somewhat ambiguous. This research utilizes in situ Hybridization (ISH) to examine the expression and localization of cadherin mRNA in AD mouse model brains. Long cRNA probes targeting cadherin revealed endogenous mRNA expression in brain sections. Interestingly, senile plaques in the AD mouse brain are also bound to these probes. This binding, however, may not exclusively denote cadherin mRNA, as ISH detected both antisense and sense cRNA probes. Our data suggests that while antisense cRNA probes effectively detect cadherin mRNA expression in AD brain cells, their association with senile plaques might not specifically signify cadherin mRNA expression.Item Treadmill Exercise Improves Brain Energy Metabolism, Motor, and Cognitive Functions in Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy Mice Model(Research Square, 2022-08-24) Feifei Pei; Fred Gendi; Yuan Wang; Haoyue Li; Shijia Du; Susu Cui; Jia Fu; Cheng ChangMore evidence shows that the brain energy demands are enormous. This study aimed to examine the metabolism changes in the brain of hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) mice model and to evaluate how treadmill exercise enhances brain metabolism. We used unilateral carotid common artery ligation mice model to simulate the clinical HIE patients. Several behavior tests were used to evaluate the motor and cognitive function impairment, western blot and immunofluorescence were used to assess the metabolism related protein changes in the different groups. Meanwhile, the HIE mice models were randomly divided into exercise training group (HIE-T) which were subjected to four weeks of treadmill exercise training and non-exercise training group (HIE-NT). The results revealed that there was decreased expression of glucose transporters GLUTs in HIE and an enhanced expression of monocarboxylate transporters MCTs, which is an important part of energy metabolism adaptation. After the period of treadmill exercise training, the expression of GLUT1 as well as MCT1 increased in the motor cortex of HIE mice model. Moreover, the mitochondrial cristae and edges were clear and intact under Transmission electron microscope compared with HIE-NT group. This suggests that increased brain energy attributed to treadmill exercise training shows promising therapeutic potential for HIE.Item Mitochondrial Proteins Unveil the Mechanism by Which Physical Exercise Ameliorates Memory, Learning and Motor Activity in Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy Rat Model(MDPI, 2022-04-11) Fred Gendi; Feifei Pei; Yuan Wang; Haoye Li; Jia Fu; Cheng ChangBackground: Physical exercise has been shown to improve cognitive and motor functions, promoting neurogenesis and demonstrating therapeutic benefits in neurodegenerative disorders. Nonetheless, it is crucial to investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which this occurs. The study aimed to investigate and evaluate the effect of swimming exercise on the changes of mitochondrial proteins in the brains of rats with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Methods: the vertical pole and Morris water maze tests were used to assess the animals’ motor and cognitive functions, and western blot and immunofluorescence of brain tissue were used to assess the biomarkers of mitochondrial apoptosis and cristae stability in response to exercise training. Four groups of rats were used: (1) sham sedentary group (SHAM, NT), (2) sham exercise training group (SHAM, T) (3) hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy sedentary group (HIE, NT), and (4) hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy exercise training group (HIE, T). Results: animals with HIE showed motor and cognitive deficits, as well as increased apoptotic protein expression. Exercise, on the other hand, improved motor and cognitive functions while also suppressing the expression of apoptotic proteins. Conclusions: By stabilizing the mitochondrial cristae and suppressing the apoptotic cascade, physical exercise provided neuroprotection in hypoxic ischemia-induced brain injury.Item Students’ Health Seeking Behaviour and its Rationale at Uganda Christian University(Texila International Journal, 2018-09-28) Mukooza, Edward Kibikyo; Carabine, Deirdre; Kikule, EkiriaUganda Christian University’s records of 2013-2014 show that approximately 30% of the 3,300 students in the Easter Semester did not register for and therefore could not use the University’s health services. This study analysed Uganda Christian University students’ health seeking behaviour in order to identify their preferred health care services and rationale for their choice, and the barriers to the University’s health system. A cross-sectional and mixed design was applied. Data was collected with a questionnaire administered to a sample of 424 Uganda Christian University students in April 2015. Quantitative data was analysed with SPSS 16. Qualitative data was analysed by content analysis. Most students came from urban (51%) or peri-urban (23.4%) homes and had parents or guardians with post-secondary school education (80%). Most of the students used the university’s Allan Galpin Health Centre (78%) when in need of health care but given choice, they would prefer other health facilities, especially those nearest. The most frequent reason for choice was convenience. The females perceived their state of health differently from the males (p-value 0.03) and they had more unmet health needs. Barriers include unavailability of needed services, long queues, poor customer care, lack of trust in the service, waiting to see if the health problem would resolve and lack of relevant information. The findings are similar to those from studies done in similar contexts. Key influencers of health seeking behaviour were convenience and gender. Unavailability of needed services and customer care issues were barriers to the University health services.Item Investigation of the Practices, Legislation, Supply Chain, and Regulation of Opioids for Clinical Pain Management in Southern Africa: A Multi-sectoral, Cross-National, Mixed Methods Study(Elsevier, 2018-03-03) Namisango, Eve; Allsop, Mathew; Powell, Richard A.; Friedrichsdorf, Stefan J.; Luyiraka, Emmanuel B.K.; Kiyange, Fatiya; Mukooza, Edward Kibikyo; Ntege, Chris; Garanganga, Eunice; Ginindza-Mdluli, Mavis Ntombifuthi; Mwangi-Powell, Faith; Mondlane, Lidia Justino; Harding, RichardSub-Saharan Africa faces an increasing incidence and prevalence of life-limiting and life-threatening conditions. These conditions are associated with a significant burden of pain linked to high morbidity and disability that is poorly assessed and undertreated. Barriers to effective pain management partly relate to lack of access to opioid analgesia and challenges in their administration. To identify country-specific and broader regional barriers to access, as well as the administration of opioids, and generate recommendations for advancing pain management in Southern Africa. A parallel mixed methods design was used across three countries: Mozambique, Swaziland, and Zimbabwe. Three activities were undertaken: 1) a review of regulatory and policy documentation, 2) group interviews, and 3) a self-administered key informant survey. Barriers to accessing opioid analgesics for medical use include overly restrictive controlled medicines’ laws; use of stigmatizing language in key documents; inaccurate actual opioid consumption estimation practices; knowledge gaps in the distribution, storage, and prescription of opioids; critical shortage of prescribers; and high out-of-pocket financial expenditures for patients against a backdrop of high levels of poverty. Policies and relevant laws should be updated to ensure that the legislative environment supports opioid access for pain management. Action plans for improving pain treatment for patients suffering from HIV or non-communicable diseases should address barriers at the different levels of the supply chain that involve policymakers, administrators, and service providers. J Pain Symptom Manage 2018;55:851e863. 2017 American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine.Item Students’ Health Seeking Behaviour and its Rationale at Uganda Christian University(Texila International Journal, 2018-09-28) Mukooza, Edward Kibikyo; Carabine, Deirdre; Kikule, EkiriaUganda Christian University’s records of 2013-2014 show that approximately 30% of the 3,300 students in the Easter Semester did not register for and therefore could not use the University’s health services. This study analysed Uganda Christian University students’ health seeking behaviour in order to identify their preferred health care services and rationale for their choice, and the barriers to the University’s health system. A cross-sectional and mixed design was applied. Data was collected with a questionnaire administered to a sample of 424 Uganda Christian University students in April 2015. Quantitative data was analysed with SPSS 16. Qualitative data was analysed by content analysis. Most students came from urban (51%) or peri-urban (23.4%) homes and had parents or guardians with post-secondary school education (80%). Most of the students used the university’s Allan Galpin Health Centre (78%) when in need of health care but given choice, they would prefer other health facilities, especially those nearest. The most frequent reason for choice was convenience. The females perceived their state of health differently from the males (p-value 0.03) and they had more unmet health needs. Barriers include unavailability of needed services, long queues, poor customer care, lack of trust in the service, waiting to see if the health problem would resolve and lack of relevant information. The findings are similar to those from studies done in similar contexts. Key influencers of health seeking behaviour were convenience and gender. Unavailability of needed services and customer care issues were barriers to the University health services.Item The Prevalence and Determinants of Anaemia among Clients of the AIDS Support Organisation-Entebbe, Uganda(Texila International Journals, 2021-12-28) Mukooza, Edward Kibikyo; Nakyeyune, Lydia; Seguya, Henry; Kikule, EkriaAnaemia, a common hematological disorder in HIV infection, compromises the quality of life and treatment outcomes. At The AIDS Support Organisation (TASO), Entebbe, the records for the 2016-2018 period show a 10% prevalence of anaemia which is lower than that in literature where it is said to be up to 95%. This study determined the prevalence, type, severity, and determinants of anaemia among people living with HIV and AIDS who receive care from TASO Entebbe in Uganda. A questionnaire was used to collect data from 624 TASO clients. A checklist identified the clients’ Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) combination and viral load. The selected clients’ Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated to assess their nutritional status. A Fully Automated Humacount 60TS Three-Part Hematology Analyzer was used to measure hemoglobin and to do a full blood count. A blood film from each sample was manually examined for the type of anaemia. Data analysis was done with Stata MP 15. The prevalence of anaemia was 44.4%, and the anaemia was mostly mild (54.15%) to moderate (40.80%). Anaemia of inflammation was the commonest type (>58%). Gender, viral suppression, nutritional status, nutritional education, marital and economic status were significantly associated with the anaemia. Duration on ART had a protective effect, but this was not statistically significant. The prevalence of anaemia (44.4%) among the TASO-Entebbe Uganda clients was high, but the anaemia was mostly mild to moderate (>94%) and of inflammation type (>58%). Management of anaemia in HIV requires intentional screening since it compromises treatment outcomes.Item Health Risk Associated with Near-Road Ambient Air Concentration of Particulate Matter in Mukono Municipal Council, Uganda(Texila International Journals, 2021-03-31) Mukooza, Edward Kibikyo; Kizza-Nkambwe, SarahMore than 98% of urban centres exceeding 100,000 people in Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs), do not meet the WHO air quality limits. Data on air pollution from LMICs is scarce. We measured the mean concentrations of near-road PM2.5 in the period of Aug.-Dec. 2020, described the Mukono Municipality’s near-road populations’ exposure to PM2.5, and assessed the associated health risk. PurpleAir PA-II laser particle counters, measured near-road ambient air PM2.5 concentration in Mukono Municipality during the period of 09/1/20 to 12/04/20. Excel Toolpak was used for data analysis and the health risk assessed with the WHO AirQ+ tool. The mean ambient near–road PM2.5 in Mukono Municipality were 30.97, 33.84 and 47.74 ug/m3for background, near-unpaved and near-paved roads, respectively. Mukono Municipality’s population was exposed to ambient PM2.5 concentrations higher than the WHO annual limit of 10 ug/m3. This level of air pollution is associated with preventable annual premature deaths of up to 133.11 per 100,000 population. Vehicles were assumed to be the predominant source of near-road ambient air PM2.5 pollution. The Municipality’s population was exposed to near-road ambient air PM2.5 exceeding the WHO annual limit by as much as *4.7 for the paved roads, *3.3 for the unpaved roads and *3 for the background. This leads to increased risk of preventable premature deaths in the Municipality.Mukono Municipality could monitor PM2.5; guide developers to placebuildings more than 100 meters away from roadsides and should promotepolicies for newer vehicles on Ugandan roads.Item Effects of Lifting COVID-19 Lockdown on Ambient Air Particulate Matter and Associated Health Risk at Uganda Christian University’s Main Campus, Mukono(Texila International Journal, 2020-09-30) Mukooza, Edward Kibikyo; Kizza-Nkambwe, SarahLockdowns control the spread of SARS-CoV-2 virus and are associated with improved air quality. Uganda imposed a lockdown beginning March 18th and begun easing it on the 2nd of June 2020. This study analysed ambient air PM2.5 at Uganda Christian University’s (UCU) main campus during and after the lockdown. Health risk reflected by avoidable premature deaths associated with poorer air quality due to lifting of the lockdown was also estimated. Laser particle counter, Purple Air PA-II, measured ambient Air PM2.5 concentration at UCU main campus for the lockdown period of 8th April to 30th June 2020. Excel Toolpak was used for data analysis and the health risk assessed with the World Health Organisation’s AirQ+ tool. The 24-hour ambient mean PM2.5 count was 16.61 μg/m³ during the lockdown and it increased to 35.57 μg/m³ on lifting of the lockdown. The increased PM2.5 is associated with a higher risk of preventable premature deaths. Vehicles using adjacent roadways were the likely source of ambient air PM2.5 at UCU. Ambient air PM2.5 during the lockdown was moderate on the Air Quality Index and it deteriorated to unhealthy for sensitive people during the lifting of the lockdown which raised the risk of preventable premature deaths. Air quality at UCU main campus could be improved by planting a wide vegetation fence next to the adjacent roads, using cleaner fuel in the University’s kitchen, lobbying for paving Bishop Road and placing new buildings away from roads. These would improve health including Covid-19 outcomes.Item The Health and Socio-Economic Status of the Buvuma Main Island Community in Buvuma District, Uganda(Texila International Journal, 2020-09-30) Mukooza, Edward Kibikyo; Kikule, Ekiria; Mugarura, Evatt; Semuju, Stephen; Kusiima, Maureen; Ubomba Jaswa, Peter; Kanyesigye, EdwardUganda Christian University’s Department of Public Health with Buvuma District local government, the local communities and the local Anglican Church of Uganda conducted a study to assess the household health and socio-economic status of communities on Buvuma’s main island. The Study design was cross-sectional and descriptive. The sample was 212 households and data were collected using Pretested Questionnaires, Focus Group Discussions, and Key Informants Interviews. Most respondents (59.9%) were female, aged 18-59 years (89.9%) with primary education (48.1%). About 21% of respondents had no formal education. Housing was mainly (73.1%) one or two roomed with earthen floors in 84.4%.; the lake was a source of water in 41% of households and water was used untreated in 36.8% of households; latrine coverage was 62.7%. Wood (70.5%) and charcoal (29.5%) were the energy sources for cooking and solar energy was used for lighting in 54.3% of the households. Malaria was the commonest cause of morbidity; 100% of households had nets, but 32.1% did not use them. 92% of mothers received antenatal care but 88.2% delivered in health facilities. Income was mostly from subsistence farming (74%) with per capita income of 20,000 to 50,000 Uganda shillings for 45% households. Most income (54%) was spent on children’s education. About 50.9% of respondents did not own land but 89.6% had a garden to grow food. Overall, the study community, in a hard to reach island district, had poorer health and socio-economic indicators than the Country.Item Adherence to Self-care Practices among Diabetes Mellitus Patients at a Tertiary Hospital in Eastern Uganda(International Scientific Indexing, 2023-06-30) Kiruyi, Samuel; Mukooza, Edward Kibikyo; Higenyi, Emmanuel; Rajab, Kalidi; Walusimbi, David; Ansiima, Sheila; Kitutu, Freddy EricAdherence to self-care practices among diabetes mellitus patients is vital in achieving optimal glycemic control and delaying the progression of the disease complications. There is limited information regarding diabetes self-care among diabetic patients in Eastern Uganda, where the disease is most prevalent. The aim of this study was to determine the level of adherence to diabetes mellitus self-care practices and the associated factors among adult diabetic outpatients at a tertiary hospital in Eastern Uganda. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital in Eastern Uganda between September and October 2020, on a sample of 156 diabetic patients recruited through systematic random sampling. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data through self-report. Descriptive and Logistic regression analyses were conducted using STATA version 15.0, and a 5% level of significance. Most of the study participants were female (63.8%) with an average age of 52.3 years (SD 13.8). The prevalence of adherence to self-care was 36.5%. The factors associated with adherence to self-care were good diabetes knowledge (AOR=2.5; 95% CI= 1.2-5.3, p = 0.016), and high self-efficacy (AOR=3.9; 95% CI= 1.8 – 8.7, p = 0.001). Less than half of the patients attending the diabetic clinic at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital in Eastern Uganda adhere to self-care practices. Patients ought to receive comprehensive, consistent, and contextualized diabetes education to enrich their knowledge, as well as a boost of their self-efficacy through interventions like counseling, positive feedback, role models, and peer education.