COLLEGE OF MEDICAL SCIENCES

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic Gram-negative pathogen of major clinical concerndue to its adaptability, virulence determinants, and increasing multidrug resistance (MDR). It isaleading cause of urinary tract infections, pneumonia, wound infections, and septicemia, particularly in hospitalized and immunocompromised patients. Its resistance mechanisms includeintrinsic traits such as efflux pumps and β-lactamase production, acquired carbapenemases, andadaptive tolerance via biofilm formation, making it one of the World Health Organization’scritical priority pathogens. This cross-sectional study was conducted at the University of BeninTeaching Hospital (UBTH) to evaluate the antibiotic resistance profile of Pseudomonasaeruginosa across clinical specimens. The clinical isolates collected were processedusingstandard microbiological and biochemical techniques. Susceptibility testing was done, withresults interpreted using CLSI guidelines. Data were statistically analyzed to assess prevalenceand resistance associations. Out of 365 isolates, 34 (9.32%) yielded Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with urine as the most common source. Isolates were more frequent in medical wards, thoughnosignificant age-related differences were noted. Resistance was extremely high: 100%to cefepime, 97.1% to cefotaxime, and 85.3% to ciprofloxacin, while ofloxacin (50%) and meropenem(52.9%) showed comparatively lower resistance. In conclusion, Pseudomonas aeruginosaisolates from UBTH exhibited high MDR levels, limiting therapeutic options. Routinesurveillance, antimicrobial stewardship, and infection control measures are essential tocurbresistance, while novel therapies such as phage treatment and β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitorcombinations may offer future solutions

Prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among men worldwide. Early detection through screening plays a crucial role in reducing complications and improving survival outcomes. However, awareness, knowledge, and attitudes toward prostate cancer screening remain limited in many populations, particularly among occupational groups with demanding work schedules such as transport drivers. This study assesses the knowledge and attitudes toward prostate cancer and the utilization of screening services among intercity and interstate public transport drivers in Benin City, Edo State.

A descriptive cross-sectional study design was adopted for this research. Data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to intercity and interstate public transport drivers operating within major motor parks in Benin City. The questionnaire assessed respondents’ socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of prostate cancer, attitudes toward the disease and its screening, and their utilization of available screening services. Data obtained were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods to determine levels of awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and screening practices.

The findings of the study are expected to reveal the level of knowledge and misconceptions about prostate cancer among transport drivers, their attitudes toward preventive health practices, and the extent to which they utilize screening services. The results will also help identify barriers that may prevent drivers from accessing screening services.

The study concludes that improving awareness and promoting positive attitudes toward prostate cancer screening among transport drivers is essential for early detection and prevention. It is recommended that targeted health education campaigns, workplace health programs, and improved access to screening services be implemented to encourage regular prostate cancer screening among this population group.

Abortion remains a significant public health concern, especially among young women of reproductive age in developing countries where access to reproductive health
services is limited and social stigma is pervasive. Female undergraduates are particularly vulnerable due to early sexual debut, inadequate contraceptive use, and socio-cultural pressures. This study assessed the prevalence and patterns of abortion among female undergraduates at the University of Benin, Edo State. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed. Data were obtained from 550 randomly selected female undergraduates across eight faculties and eight departments using
structured questionnaires. Information collected included socio-demographic characteristics, sexual and reproductive history, contraceptive use, and abortion experiences. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests with SPSS version 23.0, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: A total of 550 respondents participated, yielding a 100% response rate. The mean
age was 22.3 ± 3.5 years, with the majority aged 20–24 years. About 30% reported previous pregnancy, and all such cases ended in abortion. Most abortions were performed in hospitals (37.6%) and chemist shops (31.5%), predominantly during the first trimester (93.9%). Doctors (57.6%) and chemists (29.1%) were the main providers. Male condoms (25.6%) were the most frequently used contraceptive, mainly sourced from pharmacies. A significant association was found between contraceptive use and prevalence of abortion (p < 0.05). Cultural and religious beliefs, as well as partner involvement in decision-making, also influenced abortion and contraceptive practices. Conclusion: Abortion is prevalent among female undergraduates of the University of Benin, with most procedures occurring under medical supervision but a substantial proportion still being unsafe. Improving access to reproductive health education, contraception, and safe abortion services is essential to reduce associated risks and complications.

Hand hygiene is a key component of infection prevention and control (IPC) strategies, proven to significantly reduce healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and improve patient safety. Despite this, compliance with hand hygiene protocols among healthcare workers
(HCWs) in many healthcare facilities remains suboptimal. This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, compliance, and determinants influencing hand hygiene practice among healthcare workers in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed in this study. The sample size was calculated using Cochran’s formula for descriptive studies. A stratified random sampling technique was utilized for the study. Data were collected using a structured self- administered questionnaire adapted from WHO hand hygiene tools, the Hand Hygiene Belief Scale (HHBS), and WHO ward infrastructure checklist. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 27.0. Descriptive statistics were presented as frequencies, means, and percentages, while inferential statistics including Chi-square test and binary logistic regression were used to determine associations, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: A total of 460 respondents participated in the study, with a mean age of 31.9 ± 7.7 years; 247 (53.7%) were females and 213 (46.3%) males. Almost all participants (457 [99.3%]) were aware of hand hygiene, and 359 (78.0%) had received formal training within the previous three years. However, only 170 (37.0%) demonstrated good knowledge, while 290 (63.0%) had poor knowledge. A positive attitude toward hand hygiene was observed in 349 (75.9%) respondents, yet only 210 (45.7%) demonstrated satisfactory compliance with the WHO’s Five Moments for Hand Hygiene. Nurses (185 [40.2%]) recorded the highest compliance rates compared with other cadres. Marital status (p = 0.033), profession (p = 0.027), and monthly income (p = 0.024) were significantly associated with knowledge. Logistic regression showed that being unmarried (AOR = 2.32; 95% CI: 1.36-3.94; p = 0.002), female (AOR = 1.62; 95% CI: 1.05-2.51; p = 0.031), and of the nursing profession (AOR = 2.54; 95% CI: 1.17-5.53; p = 0.019) independently predicted good knowledge. Facility assessment revealed inadequate availability of alcohol-based hand rubs (62 [13.5%]), inconsistent running-water supply, and incomplete handwashing infrastructure in several
wards. CONCLUSION: About a third of the health workers demonstrated good knowledge of hand hygiene, with marital status and profession identified as significant predictors. Half exhibited a positive attitude, which was associated with female gender, single marital status, paramedical profession, and longer years of practice. Approximately two-thirds were compliant with hand
hygiene practices, with nurses showing the highest compliance rates. Awareness of guidelines, understanding the importance of hand hygiene, and belief in its role in preventing infections were key facilitators, while only a third of the wards had adequate infrastructure to support and sustain proper hand hygiene practices.

Coconut (Cocos nucifera) is a widely consumed tropical fruit highly valued for its nutritional and therapeutic qualities, with its oil as a major component used in food, cosmetics, and traditional medicine. Recently, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contamination of edible oils has led to concerns regarding the safety of coconut oil, especially its processing and storage practices. The aim of this study was to identify the concentrations of PAHs in some coconut oil products available in Edo State, Nigeria, to assess potential contamination and associated health risks. Coconut oil samples were collected from major markets in Edo State and analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) following solvent extraction, sample cleanup using silica gel, and rotary evaporation concentration. The analysis showed that PAH levels in all tested coconut oil samples were below the detection limit (<0.05 mg/kg), indicating no significant contamination. This suggests that the processing methods and storage conditions of the sampled oils were sufficient to prevent PAH formation. The findings emphasize the importance of continued monitoring and adherence to best practices in oil extraction, storage, and distribution to maintain product safety and protect consumers who may not have sufficient knowledge.

Background: Health-seeking behaviours among caregivers, particularly mothers, are essential to addressing childhood illnesses and reducing under-five mortality rates. In low-income settings like Nigeria, factors such as socioeconomic status, cultural beliefs, and healthcare access significantly impact these behaviours. Understanding the determinants of these behaviours can
aid in developing effective interventions to improve healthcare utilization for common childhood illnesses. Aim: To examine the patterns and determinants of health-seeking behaviours among mothers of
under-five children in Benin City, Nigeria, aiming to identify factors influencing healthcare decisions and improve child health outcomes. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 550 mothers of children under five selected by multi-staged sampling technique. Data collection involved the use of pretested, interviewer-administered questionnaires assessing socio-demographic factors, healthcare-seeking patterns, and determinants impacting these decisions. Data entry and
statistical analysis was done using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27 and the analysis included both univariate, bivariate and multivariate analysis to identify significant predictors of health-seeking behaviour. The level of statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Findings indicated that 474 (86.2%) mothers received antenatal care during pregnancy, predominantly from public hospitals, 311 (65.6%) with most having at least four visits, 459 (96.8%). Despite high antenatal attendance, 284 (65.7% ) mothers sought treatment for childhood illnesses from pharmacies rather than hospitals, 108 (25.0%) influenced by factors such as cost, 230 (53.2%), proximity, 135 (31.3%), quality of health services rendered, 92 (21.3%) and attitude of healthcare personnel, 61 (14.1%). Key determinants of formal healthcare
xv utilization included maternal education level, income, and household size, with higher hospital deliveries among mothers with increasing level of education (p < <0.001), and with employment (p = 0.007), higher visitation of antenatal clinics with increasing income (p = 0.007) and higher proportion of hospital treatment of sick children with decreasing household size (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Economic, educational, and cultural factors substantially influenced health-seeking behaviours among mothers for under-five children. Targeted interventions to improve maternal health literacy, enhance healthcare access, and reduce treatment costs could promote timely and appropriate healthcare-seeking behaviour, ultimately contributing to reduced childhood
morbidity and mortality. Keywords: Health-seeking behaviour; Childhood illnesses; Mothers; Determinants; Healthcare access, Under-five mortality; Nigeria.

Background: HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health challenge, particularly among adolescentswhofaceheightenedvulnerabilityduetosocial,economic,andbehavioralfactors.
Peer education has emerged as an effective strategy to bridge knowledge gaps and promote
preventive behaviors among teenagers. This study explores the role of peer educators in HIV/AIDS prevention among teenagers in Uselu, Egor Local Government Area, Edo State,
Nigeria.
Objective: The study assessed the level of HIV/AIDS knowledge among teenagers, assess teenagers’ attitudes toward HIV/AIDS prevention strategies, assess the acceptability of peer
educators as a method for HIV/AIDS prevention and identify factors influencing the
effectiveness of peer-led educational interventions.
Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 426 teenagers in Uselu. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire
that assessed knowledge, attitudes, and peer education acceptability. Univariate, bivariate,
and logistic regression analyses with statistical significance set at p<0.05 were performed
usingIBMSPSSversion25.0.
Results: Findings revealed that majority (96.5%) of respondents demonstrated good HIV/AIDS knowledge, although gaps persisted, particularly regarding mother-to-child
transmission. While 91.8% had a positive attitude toward HIV/AIDS prevention strategies,
concerns over limited access to condoms and routine HIV screening were noted. Peer
educators were highly accepted (76.5%), with teenagers acknowledging their effectiveness,
relatability, and ability to influence behavior. However, barriers such as shyness and time
constraints affected engagement in peer-led sessions.
Conclusion: The study underscores the importance of peer education as a viable strategy for HIV/AIDS prevention among teenagers. Expanding youth-friendly health services,
strengthening school-based sex education, and leveraging digital platforms for HIV
awareness are essential for improving intervention effectiveness. Addressing engagement
barriers will optimize peer-led programs, fostering healthier attitudes and behaviors toward
HIV/AIDS prevention in Nigerian adolescents.

BACKGROUND OF STUDY: The concept of low back pain has attracted interest due to its prevalence and association with quality of life . Despite it recognition, there is still a lack of understanding regarding correlation between physical activity level and their preferences with patients experiencing non- specific low back pain in University of Benin Teaching Hospital and Military Hospital, Benin.. Aim(s): The aim of this study is to ascertain the physical activity of patients with non- specific LBP and also to determine the correlate of their physical activity preference and identify the impact of physical activity preference on their level of physical activity. Methodology: A cross sectional study of 64 patients with non-specific low back pain participated in this study. Instruments such as the Liangjin measuring tape, mechanical weighing scale, and Life Care Centers of America retractable body measuring tape were employed to measure the respondents' height (in meters), weight (in kilograms), and waist and hip
circumferences (in meters) respectively. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire–Short Form (IPAQ-SF) and a questionnaire on the selection of 13 leisure-time sports and physical activity were used to assess physical activity and Physical activity
preferences respectively. Visual analog scale (VAS) was use for pain rating. Data analysis involved both descriptive and inferential statistics, with the significance level set at p<0.05. Results: The study’s findings revealed that the most preferred physical activity among the respondents was walking (56.3%). Cycling was the most prevalent second of choice (26.6%). Running was the most prevalent third activity of choice (18.8%). The least preferred activity III was korfball. A considerable portion (60.9%) of the respondents exhibited a high degree of physical activity , (18.8%) demonstrated minimal active while (20.3%) were physically inactive. Notably, a significant connection was observed between physical activity preferences and level of physical activity ( x 2=9.37, p=0.900), (x2=25.025, p=0.200), (x2=16.936, p=0.767) were the physical activity level and the first, second and third preferred physical activity respectively. The least preferred physical activity (x2=26.613, p=0.087). CONCLUSION: The result of this study indicated that patient with non-specific low back pain had walking as the most preferred physical activity, cycling and running are the second and third most preferred physical activity receptively, the least preferred activity was korfball. The study also reported that there is no significant association between physical activity preferences and the level of physical activity among patients experiencing non-specific low back pain. keywords: Non-specific low back pain, Physical activity preferences

Oral candidiasis remains a significant opportunistic infection among HIV-infected individuals, often serving as an early marker of immune suppression. This study aimed to determine its prevalence and assess the antifungal susceptibility patterns of Candida species isolated from HIV-positive patients attending a secondary health facility in Benin City, Nigeria. Sterile cotton swab was used to collect oral specimens from each participant which were gram-stained for microscopic examination. Positive samples ere then cultured and subjected to sensitivity test. 250 participants were screened, 76 (30%) yielded positive for oral candidiasis. Among the sociodemographic factors analyzed, only age showed a significant association with the prevalence of oral candidiasis (p < 0.001). The highest occurrence of oral candidiasis was observed in patients above 50 years.
Antifungal susceptibility testing using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method revealed varied resistance patterns. Amphotericin B showed the highest resistance rate (30.4%), while nystatin had the highest sensitivity rate (26%). Resistance to fluconazole, a commonly used antifungal, was also notable at 19.6%, raising concerns about self-medication and antifungal misuse in the region. Despite widespread HAART coverage, the prevalence of oral candidiasis highlights gaps in treatment adherence and monitoring. The findings emphasize the need for regular oral health assessments, targeted antifungal therapy based on susceptibility testing, and health education to improve HAART adherence and oral hygiene. These measures are crucial in reducing the burden of oral candidiasis in HIV-infected populations.

Malnutrition is the single biggest contributor to under-five mortality due to greater susceptibility to infections and slow recovery from illness. Every year, an estimated 2.5 million under-five children in Nigeria suffer from severe acute malnutrition and this makes them vulnerable and nine times more likely to die from diarrhea, acute respiratory tract infection and fever. This interaction between malnutrition and infection creates a potentially lethal cycle of worsening illness and deteriorating nutritional status