Search

To evaluate a knowledge translation intervention to determine knowledge, attitudes and self-efficacy related to HIV and rehabilitation advocacy in physiotherapy students. A pre and post-test study was conducted at three physiotherapy-training programs in Sub Saharan Africa – the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), the University of Zambia (UNZA) and Kenya Medical Technical College (KMTC). For each site, the knowledge, attitude and self-efficacy of physiotherapy students were tested pre- and post-intervention using a standardized questionnaire. Students' knowledge improved with regard to being able to describe the challenges faced by their patients, knowing what resources are available and understanding their role as an advocate. In terms of self-efficacy, they felt more confident clinically, as well as being a resource person to colleagues and an advocate for their patients. This study highlights the need to contextualize knowledge translation interventions to meet the unique needs of individual academic sites. Students who have clinical experience working with people living with HIV are more likely to embrace their role as advocates in the area of HIV and rehabilitation. The knowledge translation process used in this study gives a concrete example of how to use research evidence on HIV knowledge in rehabilitation applied within the advocacy process. Applying the principles of advocacy translates to understanding the management of HIV practically. Clinical experience in managing people living with HIV strengthens knowledge and improves the attitude of physiotherapy students Physiotherapy students need guidance in realizing their potential as advocates for holistic rehabilitation care for people living with HIV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Most women experienced postmenopausal symptoms during the menopause transition, and they are a common reason for seeking medical attention and lifestyle modification during this phase of life. Objective: This study assessed the physical activity, lifestyle, and sociocultural levels-associated prevalence of excess weight (overweight and obesity) among postmenopausal women (PW) in Bono-East (Techiman) region, Ghana. Design: This is cross-sectional study. Method: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at Bono-East regional capital, Techiman in Ghana over 5 months. Self-administered questionnaires were used to obtain sociodemographic data, physical activity, lifestyle, and sociocultural associated prevalence of excess weight. Anthropometric indices including ((body mass index (BMI), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR)) were assessed. Results: A total of 393 postmenopausal women with a mean age of 60.09 ± 6.24 years participated in the study. When reporting prevalence, obesity, and overweight were distinguished. Using the anthropometric parameters (BMI, WHtR, and WHR) as measured for being overweight, the prevalent rates were 35.7%, 21.7%, and 9.0% respectively. Also, when using obesity, the prevalent rate was 37.8%, 70.1%, and 82.0% using BMI, WHtR, and WHR, respectively. Over 55 (55.2%) of the study participants engaged in moderate physical activities, 23.1% were low and 21.7% with high physical activities. Housewives and unemployed participants are shown to have a higher risk of gaining weight (obese) especially when assessed with WHR and WHtR. Most participants responded that cultural beliefs prevent them from losing weight. Most participants had a poor attitude toward their eating habits. Conclusion: According to the findings, postmenopausal Ghanaian women showed a high level of obesity and a moderate level of being overweight. The cultural perception of beauty influences Ghanaian postmenopausal women's physical activity level and dietary habits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of warm up or physical exercise in the prevention of Playing Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (PRMD) among instrumental musicians has been identified over the years. However, its role could not be ascertained probably due to the non -- standardised practice and pattern of the warm up exercise and physical exercise. Stretching is usually considered as a physical warm up whereas the mode and type of stretching is not usually specified. The aim of this study is to determine the content of a warm up exercise programme for instrumental musicians. This is a Delphi study and it was conducted in three phases. Experts with experience in the field of music, research and managing injuries of the performing artists, were purposively selected to be members of the panel via the Performing Arts Medicine Association (PAMA) member directory. Seven experts in the performing arts medicine participated in the study. The content of the warm up program using the Delphi study includes stretching exercises and musical warm up prior to playing while strengthening and conditioning should be done thrice a week. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human-immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/Acquired immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) remains a major health problem in South Africa - even after two decades since the introduction of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Long-term survival with HIV is associated with new health-related issues and a risk of functional limitation/disability. The aim of this study was to assess functional limitation associated with HIV/AIDS among people living with HIV (PLHIV) in South Africa. This study is a cross-sectional survey using a cohort in an urban area in Gauteng province, South Africa. Data were collected using questionnaires through an interview process. The information collected included aspects such as demographics, livelihood, the state of mental and physical health, adherence and disability. A total of 1044 participants with an average age of 42 ± 12 years were included in the study, with 51.9% of the participants reporting functional limitations (WHODAS ≥ 2). These were reported mainly in the domains of participation (40.2%) and mobility (38.7%). In addition, adherence to ART, symptoms of poor physical health and depression were strongly associated with their functional limitations/disability. HIV as a chronic disease is associated with functional limitations that are not adequately addressed and pose a risk of long-term disability and negative adherence outcomes. Therefore, wellness for PLHIV/AIDS needs to include interventions that can prevent and manage disability.