(MRS) C. ENUKU

This study investigated the determinants of quality of life in oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed with a convenience sample of 244 patients receiving chemotherapy treatment. Data was collected using a researcher’s questionnaire assessing quality of life dimensions and available support systems. Statistical analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS version 28.0, employing both descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, means) and inferential statistics (chi-square) with significance set at p < 0.05.Findings revealed concerning quality of life levels among participants, with 45% reporting poor quality of life, 37% reporting fair quality of life, and only 18% reporting good quality of life. The study identified several determinants influencing quality of life outcomes, including sociodemographic factors, disease characteristics, treatment-related side effects, psychological well-being, and available support systems. Assessment of support systems highlighted gaps in comprehensive care delivery. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to improve quality of life among chemotherapy patients at UBTH through enhanced symptom management protocols, expanded psychosocial support services, and integrated care models. This study
contributes valuable insights to inform clinical practice, healthcare policy, and system-level improvements aimed at enhancing the overall well-being of oncology patients in this setting. Further research employing longitudinal designs and mixed-methods approaches is recommended to more comprehensively understand quality of life trajectories and develop contextually appropriate interventions.

This study examined the economic burden of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and the payment coping mechanisms of patients receiving care at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was employed, targeting sickle cell patients who attended the outpatient clinic and wards of UBTH. A sample size of 100 respondents was selected using simplerandom sampling from an estimated population of 118 patients. Data were collected using a structured, pretested questionnaire covering socio-demographic
characteristics, direct and indirect medical costs, socioeconomic cost distribution, and payment coping strategies. Validity of the instrument was ensured through expert review, and reliability was established via a test-retest method yielding a reliability coefficient of 0.85. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentages, means, and standard deviation were used to analyze the data. Direct costs were calculated using the bottom-up approach, while indirect costs were assessed through the human capital approach. Inferential analysis was done using ANOVA and Chi-square tests to determine significant associations, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Ethical approval was obtained, and patient confidentiality and voluntary participation were assured. The findings highlight the substantial economic burden SCD imposes on patients and the diverse strategies employed to cope with payment demands,
providing a basis for policy recommendations aimed at improving access to care and financial protection for individuals living with SCD.

This study examined the economic burden of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and the payment coping mechanisms of patients receiving care at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was employed, targeting sickle cell patients who attended the outpatient clinic and wards of UBTH. A sample size of 100 respondents was selected using simple random sampling from an estimated population of 118 patients. Data were collected using a structured, pretested questionnaire covering socio-demographic
characteristics, direct and indirect medical costs, socioeconomic cost distribution, and payment coping strategies. Validity of the instrument was ensured through expert review, and reliability was established via a test-retest method yielding a reliability coefficient of 0.85. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentages, means, and
standard deviation were used to analyze the data. Direct costs were calculated using the bottom-up approach, while indirect costs were assessed through the human capital approach. Inferential analysis was done using ANOVA and Chi-square tests to determine significant associations, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Ethical approval was obtained, and patient confidentiality and voluntary participation were assured. The findings highlight the substantial economic burden SCD imposes on patients and the diverse strategies employed to cope with payment demands,
providing a basis for policy recommendations aimed at improving access to care and financial protection for individuals living with SCD