Margaret Akpan - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Margaret Akpan

Research paper thumbnail of Prevalence of Presbyopia, Spectacle Correction Coverage and Unmet Need, among Adults in Cross River State, Nigeria

Journal of the Nigerian Optometric Association

Purpose: To determine the prevalence of presbyopia, spectacle correction coverage and its unmet n... more Purpose: To determine the prevalence of presbyopia, spectacle correction coverage and its unmet needs among adults 35 years and above in the study area.Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study design used multistage cluster random sampling procedure to select the 616 adults. Data was collected using an interviewer administered semi-structured questionnaire. Visual acuity at distance and near was tested with Snellen’s chart at 6m and 40cm respectively. This was followed by eye examination. Presbyopia was defined as near visual acuity of N8 or worse. Relationship between variables were determined using chi square and multivariate analysis at 5% significant level.Results: The average age of participants was 48.1 years ± 10.4 (range, 35-88 years) and 330 (53.6 %) were males. The prevalence of presbyopia was 73.2% (95% Confidence interval [CI]: 69.5, 76.7). Multiple regression analysis showed that, female sex (Adjusted odds ratio [AOR] =1.58 (95% CI: 1.02, 2.38), older age (AOR =3...

Research paper thumbnail of Hepatitis B Knowledge and Risk Perceptions among undergraduate students at the University of Calabar, Nigeria

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection caused 1.34million deaths in 2015, a number compara... more Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection caused 1.34million deaths in 2015, a number comparable to deaths caused by tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS combined. Previous prevalence of HBV was estimated to be 12.2%. Objective: This study aimed to determine Hepatitis B knowledge and risk perceptions among undergraduates of University of Calabar. Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study design was used and data were collected from 794 respondents using a semi-structured self-administered questionnaire. Results: The majority, 727 (91.6%) have heard about HBV, 678 (85.4%) correctly picked virus as cause of HBV, while 81(10.2%) picked malaria and consumption of dirty untreated water as the causes of HBV infection. On the mode of transmission, 598(75.3%) correctly picked sexual intercourse, 462(58.2%) picked sharing of sharp objects with infected persons. The majority, 562(70.8%) had good knowledge about the vaccines, while 232(29.9%) have poor knowledge, 506(63.7%) perceive HBV infection as treatable, 42(35.3%) respondents perceived HBV infection to be the same as HIV/AIDS, 615(77.4%) perceived it to be preventable, while 397(50.6%) respondents identified transfusion of unscreened blood as a risk factor for transmission of HBV. Summarily, 99(12.4%) respondents had poor knowledge, 213(26.8%) had moderate knowledge and 482(60.8%) students had good knowledge about Hepatitis B virus. Only half of the respondents, 398(50.2%) perceived HBV infection as a serious infection while 136(17.1%) have low perceived severity. Conclusion: Low perceived severity of HBV in a young, sexually active population may fuel increased prevalence if nothing is done to mitigate it. On-campus social marketing campaigns encouraging testing and preventive practices are recommended.

Research paper thumbnail of A comparative study on reproductive health awareness among Urban and Rural Secondary School Students in Cross River State Nigeria

The main purpose of the study was to assess and compare reproductive health awareness among urban... more The main purpose of the study was to assess and compare reproductive health awareness among urban and rural secondary school students in Cross River State Nigeria. A comparative descriptive survey design was used for the study. The sample size consisted of one thousand one hundred and ninety-nine (1199) Senior Secondary School Students drawn from 87 out of 229 Public Schools using multistage proportionate sampling technique. The instrument for data collection was a self developed validated 20 items questionnaire with a reliability coefficient of .80. Data collected were coded for entry and analysis was done using population t-test and independent t-test. The findings revealed a statistical difference of t-test calculation of 2.81 of awareness of family planning practices between urban and rural school students. Also results on prevention of STI and HIV/AIDS prevention of unwanted pregnancy and harmful traditional practices revealed a non statistical calculated t value of 1.13 1.88 0...

Research paper thumbnail of Factors Influencing Initiation and Continued Sexual Activity among Adolescents in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State: A Qualitative Case Study

International Journal of Health Sciences and Research, 2021

Background: One-third (31.6%) of Nigerian total population of 197 million people are adolescents ... more Background: One-third (31.6%) of Nigerian total population of 197 million people are adolescents and young adults aged 10 to 24 years; positioning Nigeria with the highest population of adolescents globally. A high prevalence of sexual activity among adolescents in Cross River State has contributed to the highest birth rate (35%) in the South-South of Nigeria. Purpose: This study explored factors influencing initiation and continued sexual activity among adolescents in Odukpani, Cross River State. Methods: Using a qualitative case study design, purposive sampling technique was used in recruiting participants for Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Each FDG had 6-10 participants in attendance giving a total of 48 participants. The FGD audio tapes were transcribed verbatim into a word document. These and the field notes were scrutinized and compared for consistency. The document was coded, manually sorted and grouped to form code families and themes. Multiple cross-checking helped retain ...

Research paper thumbnail of Digital Technology and Costume Design in Animattion: A Structuralist Reading of Peter Del’s Frozen

International Review of Humanities Studies, 2020

The deployment of digital technology to create captivating spectacles in films has reflected the ... more The deployment of digital technology to create captivating spectacles in films has reflected the boundlessness of man’s ingenuity in recreating his world. Such creativity reflects considerably in the fluidity of using the computer to generate human concepts of the role of costume grounded on theatrical system in animation. The world of animation is always synergized with marvels that defy the rational proofs for objectivity in the human world. This paper evaluates the use of digital technology to generate costume design to reflect the system of human thought in animation using Peter Del Velcho’s Frozen as paradigm. The paper uses qualitative research method to examine facts and bases its argument on Structuralism. Findings show that costume functions as a system in theatrical and film productions. In animation, the insight of human imagination through costume design is easily brought to bear, and the reality of creativity to man is ingrained in communication through captivating pict...

Research paper thumbnail of The Mask, Masking and Curtailment of Domestic Terrorism in Ika Through Akakum Performance of Nto Usoh People in Akwa Ibom State

International Review of Humanities Studies, Jan 30, 2019

In today`s Nigeria, unchecked spate of violence has gradually surfaced through slippages in human... more In today`s Nigeria, unchecked spate of violence has gradually surfaced through slippages in human character and garner to domestic terrorism in many communities. Consequences reflect in development plans schemed for these communities. Ika community has experienced this setback significantly among others in terms of development. The dimensions the institutions responsible for countering this enigma take seem to aggravate more terrifying scenarios which end in injuries, tears and even loss of lives. This paper examines how the costumes of Akakum performance tone down domestic terrorism in Ika community. It uses qualitative methodology and interview as its methodology and bases the framework on functionalism. Findings show that chaos are developing in communities as sub-cultures like traditional performances which were viable tools for curtailing antisocial manners have been relegated to the background because of the constant absorption of foreign cultures that do not fit into the context of Nigeria's perception of social manners. Traditional performances maintain in-built principles that prevent members from transgressing. The body accessories of Akakum are believed to embody supra-mundane powers which deter initiates from indulging in domestic terrorism that pervaded Ika community for many years. The paper concludes that traditional performances should be revitalized, secularized and given a global appeal. If traditional performances are secularized, they may attract tourists` interest; become a foreign income earner and also serve as tools of social control and development in the community.

Research paper thumbnail of Sophocles and Shakespeare: A Comparative Study of Classical and Elizabethan Tragedies

Greener Journal of Arts and Humanities, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Health care providers’ knowledge and practice of focused antenatal care in a cottage hospital in Enugu State, South East Nigeria

Global Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences, 2016

The potential of antenatal care for reducing maternal morbidity and mortality and improving newbo... more The potential of antenatal care for reducing maternal morbidity and mortality and improving newborn survival and health is widely acknowledged. The study sought to investigate Health Care Providers knowledge and practice of focused antenatal care in a cottage Hospital Okpatu. Qualitative ethnographical research design was adopted, while in-depth interview guide and observational checklist were the instruments for data collection. Findings revealed poor knowledge of concept, components, timing of visits on focused antenatal care and non compliance with the guidelines for the practice of focused antenatal care, because of health workers lack of knowledge on focused antenatal care. Conclusively, effort to improve antenatal care should address shortage of trained staff through expanding training opportunities. Based on the above, intensive awareness and retraining of health workers and monitoring and supervision of health care providers on evidence based focused antenatal care is recommended for health care providers in the study area. There is need for health care providers to motivate local government authority in the area to supply more equipment to ensure adequacy of resources to deliver quality care. Also, there should be strategies for implementation of existing policy concerning Focused antenatal care in the study area.

Research paper thumbnail of The Practice of Hand Washing for the Prevention of Nosocomial Infections Among Nurses in General Hospital Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Hospital acquired infections have been recognized as a critical problem affecting patient care. F... more Hospital acquired infections have been recognized as a critical problem affecting patient care. Factors such as inadequate knowledge of hand washing techniques, long nails, wearing of rings and water related problems affect the practice of hand washing. The main purpose of the study was to assess the practice of hand washing among nurses for prevention of nosocomial infections in General Hospital Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.The study was a descriptive study. A total population of all nurses directly rendering care to patients in medical surgical maternity and intensive care unit were used. Structured questionnaire was designed to collect data from the 102 respondents used for the study. Descriptive statistics like tables and percentage was used to analyse data. The result revealed that 84(82.4%) respondents had good knowledge of hand washing and 18 (17.6%) had poor knowledge. Observations on the practise of hand washing revealed that 43 (42.2%) respondents always practised hand washing for prevention of nosocomial infection, 35 (34.3%) practised occasionally, while 24 (23.5%) never practiced hand washing. It was concluded that nurses had good knowledge of hand washing but did not practice it. It was therefore recommended that hospital management should provide hand washing facilities. Also, educational programme such as workshop/seminars to improve hand washing practice in hospital should be encouraged.

Research paper thumbnail of Assessing The Effects Of Flooding On Residential Property Values In Lekki Phase I, Lagos, Nigeria

Various studies had identified location, neighbourhood characters, property characters and enviro... more Various studies had identified location, neighbourhood characters, property characters and environmental characters as factors affecting property values. Flooding in most cases are natural occurrence that damages life and properties whenever it occurs. Lekki Phase I, having experienced consistent flooding over the years, this paper therefore examines the effect such occurrences on residential property values in the neighbourhood. The study was carried out using survey approach. A total of 200 copies of the questionnaire were administered on the residents while 126 copies were retrieved (63%). Also, a total of 81 questionnaires were administered on Estate Surveyors and Valuers within Victoria Island and Lagos Island axis and 43 (53%) were retrieved. The data collected was analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistical tools. The study found that almost 70% of the properties are owner occupied; prominent causes of flood are drainage problems and rise in sea level. The study further found that there is disparity in rental values of properties in flooded and non-flooded areas. The paired sample t-test conducted showed that there is statistically significant relationship between four pairs of the properties. The study therefore recommends that construction of drainage channels should be made wide enough to drain a large quantity of water.

Research paper thumbnail of An assessment of gender and psychosocial attribute to work among students and registered nurses in Cross River State

ABSTRACT This study is an assessment of nurses’ gender and psycho-social attribute (attitude, int... more ABSTRACT This study is an assessment of nurses’ gender and psycho-social attribute (attitude, interest and self concept) to work in Cross River State. The ex post facto design was adopted for the study. A sample of 300 nurses was drawn from a population 2879 nurses in Cross River State as at the time of the study. Non probability purposive sampling technique to get the 77 male nurses used for the study while simple random sampling was used to get 223 female nurses used for the study. The data collection instrument was a 4-point Likert type questionnaire made up of 30 items structured questions whose reliability was established through a test- retest. The statistical tool used in analyzing data was independent t test. It was hypothesized that genders of nurses do not differ significantly from attitude, interest and self concept towards work. The result of the hypothesis was upheld. Based on this results it was recommended that the nursing profession should not be gender biased, males should have equal opportunity during enrolment. Male nurses should be sensitized to acquire virtues that will make them have positive self concept that will enhance their interest in the nursing profession

Research paper thumbnail of Prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus in Southern Cross River: a cross-sectional observational survey

International Journal of Diabetes in Developing Countries, 2018

The International Diabetes Federation estimates that 1.6 million (1 in 53) Nigerian adults have d... more The International Diabetes Federation estimates that 1.6 million (1 in 53) Nigerian adults have diabetes mellitus while 60.7% (949,900) of Nigerian adults with diabetes are undiagnosed. In spite of these worrying projections, current nationwide data on diabetes prevalence to aid policy formulation in Nigeria is non-existent. This was a cross-sectional observational study that recruited 1200 adults residing in the Southern Cross River State. Glucometers were used to measure the fasting capillary glucose of participants, and those with readings ≥ 7 mmol/l were asked to come back the following day for another fasting blood glucose check for confirmation. Those who had two fasting blood glucose readings consistently ≥ 7 mmol/l were classed as having diabetes mellitus and referred to the nearest hospital for further evaluation and management. Blood pressure and waist circumference were also measured. There were 683 (56.9%) females and the mean age of the participants was 41.3 ± 15.3. Using body mass index (BMI), 159 (13.3%) participants were found to be obese. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus among the tested participants was 6.9%. Univariate analysis was carried out to identify associations with diabetes among the participants. Statistically significant associations were identified between blood pressure > 140/90 mmHg (p = 0.013), local government area (p = 0.001), level of education (p = 0.002), and diabetes. The diabetes mellitus prevalence of 6.9% in this community is much higher than internationally reported estimates for Nigeria and makes a compelling case for further epidemiological studies on diabetes in Nigeria and prioritisation of this disease by health policy makers.

Research paper thumbnail of Prevalence of Presbyopia, Spectacle Correction Coverage and Unmet Need, among Adults in Cross River State, Nigeria

Journal of the Nigerian Optometric Association

Purpose: To determine the prevalence of presbyopia, spectacle correction coverage and its unmet n... more Purpose: To determine the prevalence of presbyopia, spectacle correction coverage and its unmet needs among adults 35 years and above in the study area.Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study design used multistage cluster random sampling procedure to select the 616 adults. Data was collected using an interviewer administered semi-structured questionnaire. Visual acuity at distance and near was tested with Snellen’s chart at 6m and 40cm respectively. This was followed by eye examination. Presbyopia was defined as near visual acuity of N8 or worse. Relationship between variables were determined using chi square and multivariate analysis at 5% significant level.Results: The average age of participants was 48.1 years ± 10.4 (range, 35-88 years) and 330 (53.6 %) were males. The prevalence of presbyopia was 73.2% (95% Confidence interval [CI]: 69.5, 76.7). Multiple regression analysis showed that, female sex (Adjusted odds ratio [AOR] =1.58 (95% CI: 1.02, 2.38), older age (AOR =3...

Research paper thumbnail of Hepatitis B Knowledge and Risk Perceptions among undergraduate students at the University of Calabar, Nigeria

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection caused 1.34million deaths in 2015, a number compara... more Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection caused 1.34million deaths in 2015, a number comparable to deaths caused by tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS combined. Previous prevalence of HBV was estimated to be 12.2%. Objective: This study aimed to determine Hepatitis B knowledge and risk perceptions among undergraduates of University of Calabar. Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study design was used and data were collected from 794 respondents using a semi-structured self-administered questionnaire. Results: The majority, 727 (91.6%) have heard about HBV, 678 (85.4%) correctly picked virus as cause of HBV, while 81(10.2%) picked malaria and consumption of dirty untreated water as the causes of HBV infection. On the mode of transmission, 598(75.3%) correctly picked sexual intercourse, 462(58.2%) picked sharing of sharp objects with infected persons. The majority, 562(70.8%) had good knowledge about the vaccines, while 232(29.9%) have poor knowledge, 506(63.7%) perceive HBV infection as treatable, 42(35.3%) respondents perceived HBV infection to be the same as HIV/AIDS, 615(77.4%) perceived it to be preventable, while 397(50.6%) respondents identified transfusion of unscreened blood as a risk factor for transmission of HBV. Summarily, 99(12.4%) respondents had poor knowledge, 213(26.8%) had moderate knowledge and 482(60.8%) students had good knowledge about Hepatitis B virus. Only half of the respondents, 398(50.2%) perceived HBV infection as a serious infection while 136(17.1%) have low perceived severity. Conclusion: Low perceived severity of HBV in a young, sexually active population may fuel increased prevalence if nothing is done to mitigate it. On-campus social marketing campaigns encouraging testing and preventive practices are recommended.

Research paper thumbnail of A comparative study on reproductive health awareness among Urban and Rural Secondary School Students in Cross River State Nigeria

The main purpose of the study was to assess and compare reproductive health awareness among urban... more The main purpose of the study was to assess and compare reproductive health awareness among urban and rural secondary school students in Cross River State Nigeria. A comparative descriptive survey design was used for the study. The sample size consisted of one thousand one hundred and ninety-nine (1199) Senior Secondary School Students drawn from 87 out of 229 Public Schools using multistage proportionate sampling technique. The instrument for data collection was a self developed validated 20 items questionnaire with a reliability coefficient of .80. Data collected were coded for entry and analysis was done using population t-test and independent t-test. The findings revealed a statistical difference of t-test calculation of 2.81 of awareness of family planning practices between urban and rural school students. Also results on prevention of STI and HIV/AIDS prevention of unwanted pregnancy and harmful traditional practices revealed a non statistical calculated t value of 1.13 1.88 0...

Research paper thumbnail of Factors Influencing Initiation and Continued Sexual Activity among Adolescents in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State: A Qualitative Case Study

International Journal of Health Sciences and Research, 2021

Background: One-third (31.6%) of Nigerian total population of 197 million people are adolescents ... more Background: One-third (31.6%) of Nigerian total population of 197 million people are adolescents and young adults aged 10 to 24 years; positioning Nigeria with the highest population of adolescents globally. A high prevalence of sexual activity among adolescents in Cross River State has contributed to the highest birth rate (35%) in the South-South of Nigeria. Purpose: This study explored factors influencing initiation and continued sexual activity among adolescents in Odukpani, Cross River State. Methods: Using a qualitative case study design, purposive sampling technique was used in recruiting participants for Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Each FDG had 6-10 participants in attendance giving a total of 48 participants. The FGD audio tapes were transcribed verbatim into a word document. These and the field notes were scrutinized and compared for consistency. The document was coded, manually sorted and grouped to form code families and themes. Multiple cross-checking helped retain ...

Research paper thumbnail of Digital Technology and Costume Design in Animattion: A Structuralist Reading of Peter Del’s Frozen

International Review of Humanities Studies, 2020

The deployment of digital technology to create captivating spectacles in films has reflected the ... more The deployment of digital technology to create captivating spectacles in films has reflected the boundlessness of man’s ingenuity in recreating his world. Such creativity reflects considerably in the fluidity of using the computer to generate human concepts of the role of costume grounded on theatrical system in animation. The world of animation is always synergized with marvels that defy the rational proofs for objectivity in the human world. This paper evaluates the use of digital technology to generate costume design to reflect the system of human thought in animation using Peter Del Velcho’s Frozen as paradigm. The paper uses qualitative research method to examine facts and bases its argument on Structuralism. Findings show that costume functions as a system in theatrical and film productions. In animation, the insight of human imagination through costume design is easily brought to bear, and the reality of creativity to man is ingrained in communication through captivating pict...

Research paper thumbnail of The Mask, Masking and Curtailment of Domestic Terrorism in Ika Through Akakum Performance of Nto Usoh People in Akwa Ibom State

International Review of Humanities Studies, Jan 30, 2019

In today`s Nigeria, unchecked spate of violence has gradually surfaced through slippages in human... more In today`s Nigeria, unchecked spate of violence has gradually surfaced through slippages in human character and garner to domestic terrorism in many communities. Consequences reflect in development plans schemed for these communities. Ika community has experienced this setback significantly among others in terms of development. The dimensions the institutions responsible for countering this enigma take seem to aggravate more terrifying scenarios which end in injuries, tears and even loss of lives. This paper examines how the costumes of Akakum performance tone down domestic terrorism in Ika community. It uses qualitative methodology and interview as its methodology and bases the framework on functionalism. Findings show that chaos are developing in communities as sub-cultures like traditional performances which were viable tools for curtailing antisocial manners have been relegated to the background because of the constant absorption of foreign cultures that do not fit into the context of Nigeria's perception of social manners. Traditional performances maintain in-built principles that prevent members from transgressing. The body accessories of Akakum are believed to embody supra-mundane powers which deter initiates from indulging in domestic terrorism that pervaded Ika community for many years. The paper concludes that traditional performances should be revitalized, secularized and given a global appeal. If traditional performances are secularized, they may attract tourists` interest; become a foreign income earner and also serve as tools of social control and development in the community.

Research paper thumbnail of Sophocles and Shakespeare: A Comparative Study of Classical and Elizabethan Tragedies

Greener Journal of Arts and Humanities, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Health care providers’ knowledge and practice of focused antenatal care in a cottage hospital in Enugu State, South East Nigeria

Global Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences, 2016

The potential of antenatal care for reducing maternal morbidity and mortality and improving newbo... more The potential of antenatal care for reducing maternal morbidity and mortality and improving newborn survival and health is widely acknowledged. The study sought to investigate Health Care Providers knowledge and practice of focused antenatal care in a cottage Hospital Okpatu. Qualitative ethnographical research design was adopted, while in-depth interview guide and observational checklist were the instruments for data collection. Findings revealed poor knowledge of concept, components, timing of visits on focused antenatal care and non compliance with the guidelines for the practice of focused antenatal care, because of health workers lack of knowledge on focused antenatal care. Conclusively, effort to improve antenatal care should address shortage of trained staff through expanding training opportunities. Based on the above, intensive awareness and retraining of health workers and monitoring and supervision of health care providers on evidence based focused antenatal care is recommended for health care providers in the study area. There is need for health care providers to motivate local government authority in the area to supply more equipment to ensure adequacy of resources to deliver quality care. Also, there should be strategies for implementation of existing policy concerning Focused antenatal care in the study area.

Research paper thumbnail of The Practice of Hand Washing for the Prevention of Nosocomial Infections Among Nurses in General Hospital Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Hospital acquired infections have been recognized as a critical problem affecting patient care. F... more Hospital acquired infections have been recognized as a critical problem affecting patient care. Factors such as inadequate knowledge of hand washing techniques, long nails, wearing of rings and water related problems affect the practice of hand washing. The main purpose of the study was to assess the practice of hand washing among nurses for prevention of nosocomial infections in General Hospital Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.The study was a descriptive study. A total population of all nurses directly rendering care to patients in medical surgical maternity and intensive care unit were used. Structured questionnaire was designed to collect data from the 102 respondents used for the study. Descriptive statistics like tables and percentage was used to analyse data. The result revealed that 84(82.4%) respondents had good knowledge of hand washing and 18 (17.6%) had poor knowledge. Observations on the practise of hand washing revealed that 43 (42.2%) respondents always practised hand washing for prevention of nosocomial infection, 35 (34.3%) practised occasionally, while 24 (23.5%) never practiced hand washing. It was concluded that nurses had good knowledge of hand washing but did not practice it. It was therefore recommended that hospital management should provide hand washing facilities. Also, educational programme such as workshop/seminars to improve hand washing practice in hospital should be encouraged.

Research paper thumbnail of Assessing The Effects Of Flooding On Residential Property Values In Lekki Phase I, Lagos, Nigeria

Various studies had identified location, neighbourhood characters, property characters and enviro... more Various studies had identified location, neighbourhood characters, property characters and environmental characters as factors affecting property values. Flooding in most cases are natural occurrence that damages life and properties whenever it occurs. Lekki Phase I, having experienced consistent flooding over the years, this paper therefore examines the effect such occurrences on residential property values in the neighbourhood. The study was carried out using survey approach. A total of 200 copies of the questionnaire were administered on the residents while 126 copies were retrieved (63%). Also, a total of 81 questionnaires were administered on Estate Surveyors and Valuers within Victoria Island and Lagos Island axis and 43 (53%) were retrieved. The data collected was analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistical tools. The study found that almost 70% of the properties are owner occupied; prominent causes of flood are drainage problems and rise in sea level. The study further found that there is disparity in rental values of properties in flooded and non-flooded areas. The paired sample t-test conducted showed that there is statistically significant relationship between four pairs of the properties. The study therefore recommends that construction of drainage channels should be made wide enough to drain a large quantity of water.

Research paper thumbnail of An assessment of gender and psychosocial attribute to work among students and registered nurses in Cross River State

ABSTRACT This study is an assessment of nurses’ gender and psycho-social attribute (attitude, int... more ABSTRACT This study is an assessment of nurses’ gender and psycho-social attribute (attitude, interest and self concept) to work in Cross River State. The ex post facto design was adopted for the study. A sample of 300 nurses was drawn from a population 2879 nurses in Cross River State as at the time of the study. Non probability purposive sampling technique to get the 77 male nurses used for the study while simple random sampling was used to get 223 female nurses used for the study. The data collection instrument was a 4-point Likert type questionnaire made up of 30 items structured questions whose reliability was established through a test- retest. The statistical tool used in analyzing data was independent t test. It was hypothesized that genders of nurses do not differ significantly from attitude, interest and self concept towards work. The result of the hypothesis was upheld. Based on this results it was recommended that the nursing profession should not be gender biased, males should have equal opportunity during enrolment. Male nurses should be sensitized to acquire virtues that will make them have positive self concept that will enhance their interest in the nursing profession

Research paper thumbnail of Prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus in Southern Cross River: a cross-sectional observational survey

International Journal of Diabetes in Developing Countries, 2018

The International Diabetes Federation estimates that 1.6 million (1 in 53) Nigerian adults have d... more The International Diabetes Federation estimates that 1.6 million (1 in 53) Nigerian adults have diabetes mellitus while 60.7% (949,900) of Nigerian adults with diabetes are undiagnosed. In spite of these worrying projections, current nationwide data on diabetes prevalence to aid policy formulation in Nigeria is non-existent. This was a cross-sectional observational study that recruited 1200 adults residing in the Southern Cross River State. Glucometers were used to measure the fasting capillary glucose of participants, and those with readings ≥ 7 mmol/l were asked to come back the following day for another fasting blood glucose check for confirmation. Those who had two fasting blood glucose readings consistently ≥ 7 mmol/l were classed as having diabetes mellitus and referred to the nearest hospital for further evaluation and management. Blood pressure and waist circumference were also measured. There were 683 (56.9%) females and the mean age of the participants was 41.3 ± 15.3. Using body mass index (BMI), 159 (13.3%) participants were found to be obese. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus among the tested participants was 6.9%. Univariate analysis was carried out to identify associations with diabetes among the participants. Statistically significant associations were identified between blood pressure > 140/90 mmHg (p = 0.013), local government area (p = 0.001), level of education (p = 0.002), and diabetes. The diabetes mellitus prevalence of 6.9% in this community is much higher than internationally reported estimates for Nigeria and makes a compelling case for further epidemiological studies on diabetes in Nigeria and prioritisation of this disease by health policy makers.