School of Medicine and Health Sciences
Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://41.89.31.6:4000/handle/123456789/315
Welcome to School of Medicine and Health Sciences collection.This collection contains Journal articles published by faculty affiliated to the school.
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Item Health System Factors that Influence Hpv Vaccine Uptake in Kiambu County(EPRA International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (IJMR), 2025-07) Mwangi, Solomon Maina; M’mayi, Consolata; .Masinde, Lily J.A.Human papillomavirus HPV is a major cause of cervical cancer infection, however, HPV vaccine uptake among the targeted groups (ages 9-14) remains suboptimal in many regions, including Kiambu County, Kenya. Across sectional design sought to assess the relationships between health system factors and vaccine uptake. The study targeted parents with daughters aged 9–14 years. A sample of 400 respondents was included to provide a robust representation of the target population, ensuring comprehensive and reliable insights. Key findings indicate that health system factors such as absence of health provider’s, access to vaccination services and communication by healthcare providers to parents emerged as critical determinants of vaccine uptake. From the findings the study concluded that there is a significant impact of health system factors on vaccination decisions. Based on the findings the study recommended that the County Government of Kiambu through the department of Health should improve Communication among Health Care Providers and when training healthcare providers they should use recommended communication strategies to engage parents in discussing HPV vaccination.Item Understanding The Socio-Economic Determinants of Family Planning Service Utilization Among Women of Reproductive Age In Eldas Sub-County: A Mixed-Methods Study(KeMU, 2024-06) Mohamed, Sulekha; M’mayi, Consolata; Nyavanga, EuniceThis study investigates the socio-economic factors influencing the utilization of family planning (FP) services among women of reproductive age (15-49 years) in the Eldas sub-county. Utilizing a mixedmethods research approach, quantitative data were collected through structured surveys administered to a representative sample of women. Additionally, qualitative insights were gathered through in-depth interviews with key stakeholders. The findings reveal significant associations between various socioeconomic variables and FP service utilization. Marital status and age emerged as contributors, with women aged 36-45 demonstrating higher utilization rates compared to younger age groups, and widowed women exhibiting greater propensity to utilize FP services compared to their married counterparts. Educational background and employment status were also found to be statistically significant predictors of FP service utilization, with educated and employed women demonstrating higher likelihoods of utilizing FP services. Moreover, the number of children, involvement in polygamous marriages, and discussion about birth control with partners were identified as key factors influencing FP service utilization. These findings underscore the importance of addressing socio-economic disparities and promoting educational and economic empowerment initiatives to enhance FP service utilization among women in the Eldas subcounty. Policy and programmatic interventions targeting these factors are recommended to improve reproductive health outcomes and empower women in making informed decisions about their reproductive health.Item Influence of Perceived Risk, Socio-Cultural, And Health System Factors On the Uptake of Cervical Cancer Screening Services Among Women Aged 25–49 Years in Thika Sub-County(EPRA International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (IJMR), 2025-05) Kathurima, Fridah Nkatha; Masinde, Lily J.A.; M’mayi, ConsolataBackground: Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income countries. In Kenya, although the incidence is high, screening uptake remains low. Aim: This study examined how perceived risk, socio-cultural, and health system factors influence cervical cancer screening uptake among women aged 25–49 in Thika Sub-County, Kenya. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 285 women was conducted using structured interviews. Data were analyzed using correlation and chi-square tests. Results: Perceived risks such as multiple sexual partners (χ² = 35.117, p < 0.01) and belief in the fatality of cervical cancer (χ² = 19.601, p < 0.01) were significantly associated with screening uptake. Socio-cultural influences—religious beliefs (r = 0.248), cultural perceptions (r = 0.249), and family influence (r = 0.313)—also impacted uptake. Health system factors, including program availability (χ² = 49.172, p < 0.01), sensitization by providers (χ² = 52.143, p < 0.01), and access (χ² = 9.896, p = 0.019), showed strong associations with screening behavior. Conclusion: A multifaceted approach involving community education, health system strengthening, and culturally sensitive outreach is essential to enhance cervical cancer screening rates in Kenya.Item Risk Factors of Potentially Blinding Trachoma in Loodokilani Ward, Kajiado County, Kenya(International Journal of professional Practice (IJPP), 2021) Parsimei, Ruth; Oirere, B.O.; M’mayi, ConsolataTrachoma is a neglected tropical disease, that is most prevalent in the nomadic communities greatly associated with poverty. This study sought to determine the ascendancy of potentially blinding trachoma and its prospect among adults aged 18-60 years in Loodokilani ward, Kajiado County. This research was a graphic transverse study. Multistage sampling technique was used where every location represented one unit. The initial stage used the random sampling which was used for listing of households in the study area. The second stage involved going through the listed households to identify patients. A total of 155 male and 267 female adults residing in the area of study were sampled. The comprehensive occurrence of potentially blinding trachoma was established as 44.5%. Sorted by age and location, it was noted that age was statistically vital (p <0.05) to potentially blinding trachoma. Geographical locations were also significant (p<0.05) to potentially blinding trachoma. However, gender of patients was not scientifically reliable (p>0.05) to location. Majority of the respondents did not own or utilize toilets; hence, a clear indication of open defecation especially at night that led to increased number of vector-musca sorbent flies responsible for chlamydia trachomatis bacteria which causes infection. Previous studies indicate that Kajiado West subcounty recorded the least average of 11.6% on water accessibility as compared to the county`s average of 62.3%. Due to the scarcity of water there was limited practice of hand and face washing. It was noted that all facial cleanliness and environmental hygiene indicators were statistically significant (p<0.05) to prevalence of potentially blinding trachoma, apart from presence of impermeable floored toilets and presence of eye seeking flies. Consistent community sensitizations on regular facial and environmental hygiene to achieve a trachoma free environment was recommended. Mass drug administration should continue annually until the prevalence drops below 5%.