EGOR LGA

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a leading cause of occupational disability worldwide, particularly among manual laborers such as bricklayers who are frequently exposed to physical stressors like lifting, bending, and awkward postures. Despite its impact on productivity and health, there is limited local data on LBP among bricklayers in Egor Local Government Area (LGA) of Edo State, Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 222 active bricklayers in Egor LGA using a structured, validated questionnaire adapted from the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26. Descriptive statistics summarized prevalence data, while Chi-square tests and logistic regression were applied to determine associations between LBP and occupational/personal factors at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: Findings revealed that the 12-month prevalence of LBP among bricklayers was high. Significant occupational factors associated with LBP included prolonged bending, lifting heavy materials, poor posture, and long working hours. Personal factors such as age, smoking, and elevated body mass index (BMI) also contributed significantly. The majority of affected workers reported recurrent pain episodes that interfered with daily work performance and overall well-being. Conclusion: The prevalence of LBP among bricklayers in Egor LGA is substantial and largely attributable to preventable ergonomic and behavioral factors. Strengthening ergonomic education, enforcing rest breaks, and promoting the use of mechanical aids can reduce the burden of LBP and enhance worker productivity.

The increasing prevalence of Type 2 diabetes poses a significant public health concern, particularly among working professionals such as teachers, whose demanding schedules and lifestyle habits may contribute to their risk of developing the disease. This study investigates the influence of dietary changes, physical activity, and lifestyle modifications on the prevention of Type 2 diabetes among teachers in Egor Local Government Area, Edo State. The study employed a descriptive survey research design, and data were collected through a structured questionnaire distributed to public secondary school teachers. The findings reveal that while most respondents acknowledge the importance of maintaining a balanced diet in diabetes prevention, a considerable number still consume excessive processed and fast foods, indicating the need for improved dietary awareness and education. Additionally, teachers recognize the role of regular physical activity in reducing diabetes risk, yet workload constraints and lack of structured fitness programs hinder their participation in exercise routines. The study further highlights the impact of workplace wellness initiatives in fostering healthier lifestyle choices among educators. Despite the recognized benefits of lifestyle modifications, challenges such as busy schedules, unhealthy dietary habits, and limited institutional support restrict full adherence to preventive measures. The study underscores the need for increased health education, targeted policy interventions, and structured workplace wellness programs to promote diabetes prevention among teachers. It recommends the integration of nutritional education and physical activity support systems into school policies and teachers' professional development programs. Addressing these barriers will be essential in reducing the prevalence of Type 2 diabetes in this population, ultimately improving teachers' overall health and productivity

Acanthamoeba, a free-living Amoeba commonly found in water, a category of protozoans which are pervasive and can be found in diverse environments, including, sewage water, air, soil, dust, and sediments. One of the vital issues in water pollution is the occurrence of pathogenic amoebae in tap or drinking water. The aim of the study was to compare the detection of canthamoeba from borehole water source and tap water in Egor Local Government within Benin metropolis using two methods. This observational, prospective cross-sectional study collected 52 water samples from various locations within the Egor Local Government Area (26 samples each from bore-hole water source and tap water). Samples were processed on the same day of collection. For Acanthamoeba detection, 500 mL of water sample was passed through a 0.45 μm cellulose nitrate membrane filter. Prepared nonnutrient agar plates were seeded with heat-killed Escherichia coli. Cultures were incubated at 30℃ for amoebic growth and examined microsopically. The study also employed centrifugation, and sediments were microscopically viewed under iodine-stained slides. Results showed a significant difference in the occurrence of Acanthamoeba species (p = 0.007) in bore-hole water and tap water when using the culturing method. However, there was no significant difference (p = 0.277) between samples of bore-hole water and tap water obtained through centrifugation. This suggests that an isolation method can influence the detection of Acanthamoeba species. This research highlights the substantial prevalence of Acanthamoeba species in bore-hole water sources within Benin City, with potential implications for water quality and safety. The discrepancy in results between culture and centrifugation methods underscores the need for careful consideration when choosing a detection method. The high prevalence of Acanthamoeba in bore-hole water may have a link to the nature of the water facility. Further studies are necessary to investigate the reasons behind the methodological differences and their implications for water quality and safety in Benin City.