Browse
Recent Submissions
Item A preliminary, quantitative study on the use of traditional and complementary medicine by cancer patients seen at the Senkatana Oncology Clinic, Maseru, Lesotho(BMC, 2024-04-01) Sooro, Mopa A; Thoahlane, Thabo S; Ramathebane, Maseabata V; Mputsoe, Kabelo ABackground The use of traditional and complementary medicine (TCM) by cancer patients remains common in several countries especially in the Sub-Saharan Africa. However, the reasons for use are complex and change with time and geographic location, they may vary from therapy to therapy, and they are different from one individual to another. The use of TCM has been associated with active coping behaviour and a way through which patients take control of their own health. However, cancer patients do not disclose their use of TCM to the attending healthcare professionals and therefore the effects of these medicines on the patients may not be ascertained. Aim To investigate the use of traditional and complementary medicines among patients diagnosed with cancer. Methods A cross-sectional, quantitative study was conducted at Senkatana Oncology clinic in May to June 2023. Cancer patients underwent standardized, quantitative interviews using structured questionnaires about their use of TCM. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. Logistic regression analysis was also used to identify factors associated with satisfaction with the performance of TCM. Results All interviewed patients (n = 50, 100%) reported to be using TCM. Patients consisted of 24 females (48%) and 26 males (52%) in the age range 14 to 82 years old. The majority of the study population was in the age group 35–44 years old. The most prevalent cancer among participating males was prostate cancer and among females was cervical cancer. Biological products use was the most prominent with the highest average percentage usage (14.7%). The majority of patients (66%, n = 33) indicated that they just wanted to try everything that could help. Patients (n = 47, 94%) further reported that they had been using complementary medicine during the same period as they were using conventional treatment so that both may work to help each other. Neither gender nor age predicted satisfaction with the performance of traditional and complementary medicine. Conclusions It is concluded that all interviewed cancer patients use TCM. Patients indicated that one of the reasons for using TCM was that they wanted to try everything that could help in their cancer care. Patients further reportedItem Democratic education in technology-mediated postgraduate nursing(ERRC Forum, 2025-05-27) Mahlelehlele, Bokang A; Marittz, Jeanette E; Van Rensburg, Gisela HThis study explores how Master of Nursing Sci- ence students navigate technology-mediated learning and institutional support, examining how digital platforms ei- ther promote or hinder equitable access in resource-lim- ited contexts through a critical pedagogy lens. A qualita- tive research approach, specifically constructivist grounded theory, was used to explore the problem. Data were collected during three focus group discussions in- volving 24 Master of Nursing Science students from the National University of Lesotho. The analysis identified key structural barriers, including unreliable internet con- nectivity, inadequate training on digital platforms, and disparities in technological literacy, which constrained students’ full participation in online learning. In response to these challenges, students developed adaptive strate- gies such as peer support networks, self-directed learning, and emotional resilience. However, relying on individual agency rather than systemic transformation underscores the persistent inequities that postgraduate students expe- rience in resource-limited contexts. The findings highlight the need for universities to transition from passive re- source provision to proactive institutional engagement, ensuring structured support that fosters meaningful learning experiences. To achieve equitable access in technology-mediated postgraduate nursing education, institutions must invest in digital infrastructure, faculty development, and psychosocial support mechanisms. This study contributes to the discourse on democratic education by advocating for systemic reforms that promote inclusive and participatory learning environments in postgraduate nursing education.Item Factors associated with unplanned pregnancy among youth at a selected hospital in Lesotho(Science Publishing Group, 2024-06-26) Maselinyane, Tseko; Nyangu, Isabel; Nyoni, ChampionUnplanned pregnancy amongst youth is a fundamental health problem that affects both developing and developed countries globally. There are various factors associated with unplanned pregnancy amongst youth and these factors have differing propagators. Unplanned pregnancies account for over half of total pregnancies in Lesotho; youth pregnancies contribute vast percentage overall. This study aimed to assess which factors associated are with unplanned pregnancy among youths who sought antenatal and postnatal care services at a selected government hospital in Lesotho. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used, and data was collected from a sample of 100 participants using a structured questionnaire. The results revealed that unplanned pregnancy among youths was associated with age, unemployment, lack of contraceptive use, sexual abuse, living in rural areas and lack of unplanned pregnancy prevention campaigns. The findings of this study support socio-ecological model which postulates that variety of factors influence health outcomes. We conclude that more needs to be done to improve access to formal education, availability and accessibility of unplanned pregnancy prevention campaigns and sexual and reproductive services. Reduction in unplanned pregnancy has several benefits not only to sexual and reproductive health but to life holistically. Sexual and reproductive health benefits include reduced maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality and reduced abortions.Item Healthcare waste management knowledge, attitudes and practices of laboratory workers at a regional hospital, Lesotho(AOSIS, 2024-12-06) Siimane, Tsaletseng M; Ntsihlele, MotlatsiBackground: Safe management of healthcare waste (HW) safeguards laboratory biosafety and biosecurity. Knowledge and attitudes influence HW practices, presenting a need for evidence of the current status. Objective: This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes and practice of laboratory workers towards waste management at a regional hospital laboratory in Lesotho. Methods: The study was conducted from March 2023 to June 2023 using a mixed-methods descriptive case study design. The entire population (n = 30) of technical and non-technical laboratory workers and generated waste were sampled. A structured questionnaire and an observational checklist were used to collect data. Waste generation was assessed by weighing and measuring waste volumes. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: All respondents (26/26; 100%) can define HW and (3/3) laboratory assistants (100%) gave correct responses for three questions, namely: risk associated with HW, waste container colour-coding, and disposal requirements. Knowledge on waste management responsibilities ranged between 0% (0/4) for cleaners and 54.5% (6/11) among laboratory technicians. Attitudes were mainly positive, and practices conformed in part to standard operating procedures. Infectious solid waste comprised 77% of solid HW, while 63% of chemical liquid waste emanated from the full blood count area. Conclusion: Knowledge exists among workers and attitudes are predominantly positive; however, some unsafe practices continue, thus knowledge is not fully translated to safe practices. Regular training and measuring and recording of HW were recommended. What this study adds: The study contributes understanding of the status of HW knowledge, attitudes and management practices, highlighting the need for compliance monitoringItem Assessment of heavy metals and health risks of street vended foods in the Mangaung Metro Municipality, Free State, South Africa(Elsevier, 2024-10-25) Letuka, Pontso; Nkhebenyane, Sebolelo; Tywabi-Ngeva, ZikhonaStreet food vending is part of the informal sector that plays a significant role 10 in improving socio-economic status of vendors and the food security of consumers. 11 However, this sector faces safety challenges mostly due to anthropogenic activities and 12 the lack of regulation. Chemical and heavy metal contamination from agricultural 13 practices and industrial activities are significant concerns. This study aimed to evaluate 14 heavy metal contamination in commonly vended foods-pap, chicken, pork and 15 moroho/salads- in the Free State, South Africa, and assess the associated health risks to 16 consumers. Shapiro-Wilk’s normality test and Kruskal-Wallis H tests were used to 17 evaluate differences between means, followed by Pairwise Comparison (p=0.05). 18 Results indicated heavy metal contamination in all analysed samples. The overall 19 median and IQR of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb, and Zn in descending order Fe 4.365(4.424), 20 Zn 3.605(3.711), As 2.653(2.971), Pb 1.095(1.266), Cu 0.271(0.326), Cr 0.212(0.117) and Zn 0.023(0.027) mg/kg. Multiple pairwise comparisons showed a statistically significant difference (p <0.05) for As between all pairs, while other heavy metals showed some variations without statistical significance. The EDI values of pap, chicken, pork and moroho/salads were below the recommended dietary values, suggesting the heavy metals may not pose a public health risk. The health risk assessment through ICLR and Hazard Index (HI) indicated potential cancer and non-cancer risks from heavy metals in street-vended foods, as ICLR≥10-3 and HI >1. This implies that habitual consumers are at risk of non-carcinogenic health conditionsItem Nutrition knowledge and attitudes of street food handlers in Mangaung Metro Municipality in free state, South Africa(Asia Pacific Academy of Science Pty Ltd, 2024-02-02) Letuka, Pontso Joyce; Nkhebenyane, Jane; Tywabi-Ngeva, ZikhonaNutritious and safe food is essential for good health. However not all food handlers especially in the street food trade know how to or are willing to prepare nutritiously balanced meals. Many non-communicable diseases are associated with poor diets, this therefore implies that habitual consumers of street vended foods could be at risk. This study therefore aimed to analyze the nutrition knowledge and attitudes of street food handlers as well as the food types sold. The study followed a cross-sectional, quantitative design using a peer reviewed questionnaire to obtain street food handler demographics, nutrition knowledge, attitudes and food types sold. Questionnaires were administered to 100 food vendors (June–August 2022) with more females (57%) than males (43%) in the sample. The nutrition knowledge responses given by vendors are indicative of a satisfactory knowledge level. None of the participants scored below 33% (i.e., ≤5/15). The vendors had positive attitudes towards nutrition. However, the meals they sold such as fat cakes and processed meats, were mostly fat and energy dense, and these have a potential to cause health issues such obesity and cardiovascular diseases. Studies on nutrition knowledge especially among this demographic are significantly fewer, and no other study of this kind has been conducted in the Free State.Item Growth parameters and food frequently consumed by Basotho children aged 6–24 months old at Maseru and Leribe districts of Lesotho:(John Wiley & Sons, 2024-07-12) Nyofane, Mothusi; Rapotsane, Malebusa; Moshao, MohlotsaneUndernutrition in children remains a public health concern. Despite the global efforts to address undernutrition, Lesotho continues to bear the highest burden of childhood undernutrition. The study assessed the anthropometric measurements and dietary intake of children aged 6–24 months. A descriptive cross‐sectional study was conducted among 113 mother–child dyads attending clinic visits at Makoanyane Military Hospital (Maseru district); n = 50 and Motebang Hospital (Leribe district); n = 63. A structured sociodemographic and feeding practices questionnaires based on adapted World Health Orga- nization (WHO) questionnaires were used. The usual food consumption was collected using an unquantified food frequency questionnaire. Anthropo- metric measurements and z scores computation were done as per WHO standard guidelines. Statistics included percentages for categorical variables and means for continuous variables. The percentage of continued breast- feeding was 54.0% in Maseru and 28.6% in Leribe districts. Complementary feeds were introduced at the mean age of 5.3 � 1.0 (Maseru) and 5.2 � 1.3 months (Leribe). In Leribe, 84.1% of children were consuming maize porridge every day while in Maseru, 68.0% of children were consuming commercial baby cereal every day. The prevalence of wasting was 10.0% (Maseru) and 20.6% with 14.3% of severe wasting (Leribe). A higher per- centage of stunting was observed in Leribe (36.5%) than in Maseru (20.0%) (p < 0.001). The prevalence of moderate and severe stunting was 8.0% and 12.0% in Maseru and 20.6% and 15.9% in Leribe, respectively. The prevalence of stunting is alarmingly high in Leribe. The findings suggest an urgent need to strengthen maternal and child health and nutrition programs to ameliorate feeding practices and nutritional statusItem Comorbidity and haemodialysis adequacy in end-stage kidney disease patients in Lesotho(International Health Review, 2024-12-19) Polile, Rasemoko, P; Lehloenya, Boitumelo; Maja, Lineo; Raute, MoliseBackground: Low- and middle-income countries including Lesotho are faced with a huge burden of end-stage kidney disease in people experiencing human immune virus (HIV), hypertension (HTN) and diabetes mellitus (DM). Objectives: To assess the comorbidity, mortality rate and evaluate the haemodialysis adequacy in patients with end-stage kidney disease in Motebang government hospital. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in 142 adult male and female patients enrolled for haemodialysis from 1st October 2017 to 30th June 2023 in Motebang government hospital. Patient’s characteristics and clinical outcomes data were analysed using descriptive statistics Results: Among 142 patients enrolled, there were 84 (59.2%) males and 58 (40.8%) females. 19 (13.4%) patients were below 34 years while 33 (23.3%) patients were between 45 and 64 years. In all age groups, 41 (28.9%) patients had HIV, 37 (26.1%) patients had HTN alone and 24 (16.9%) patients had combination of HTN and DM. In 63 deceased patients, there were 36 (57.1%) males and 27 (42.7%) females. Among deceased, 18 (28.5%) patients had HIV, 15 (23.8%) had combination of HTN and DM, 14 (22.3%) patients had HTN alone, while all the patients (99.3%) were also anaemic. Since 2017, 19 (30.2%) patients died in 2020, 12 (19%) died in 2022 while only 4 (6.3%) patients died up to date (June 2023). Among 79 patients, only 1 (1.3%) patient had urea- reduction ratio (URR) greater than 65%. Conclusions: Chronic diseases are the major risks factors in patients with end-stage kidney disease in Motebang hospital. Haemodialysis adequacyshould form the integral part of monitoring in patients with end-stage kidney disease to prolong lifeItem HIV Self-Testing in Southern Africa: Progress and Challenges(International Journal of Recent Innovations in Medicine and Clinical Research, 2019-12-29) Sello, M; Ramathebane, Maseabata M; Maja, L.J; Shelile, M.Z; Namole, L.DPitfalls of HIV testing in health care facilities include fears over loss of privacy and confidentiality. HIV self-testing represents an innovative strategy to expand access to HIV testing services in the general population and also to reach individuals at high risk for HIV who may not otherwise submit to HIV testing, including young people and key populations. We conducted a systematic review of observational studies done in southern African countries between the 1st January 2016 to 15th March 2018 on HIVST with focus on progress made and challenges observed. Thirteen (13) observational studies satisfied the inclusion criteria. These studies were published between January 2016 and March 2018 across five southern African countries namely Zambia (3), Malawi (2), South Africa (5), Zimbabwe (1), Botswana (1). There was also a study done in both Malawi and Zimbabwe (1). HIVST is highly acceptable in southern Africa despite challenges ranging from gender differences, acquisition of test kits, lack of pre-test and post-test counseling, potential social harm and inadequate ability to following user’s instructionsItem Evaluation of Southern African Wild Edible Plants for Potential Herb-Drug Interactions Through Ex Vivo P-Glycoprotein and In Vitro Cytochrome P450 3A4 Inhibitory Effects(Elsevier, 2024-11-08) Kheoane, P S; Mokhetho, K C; Mokhele, S; Mbara, K C; Leonard, C M; Gadaga, T H; Tarirai, CWild edible plants (WEPs) including herbs provide staple foods as well as income for local communities on the African continent. However, these commonly used plant materials interact with orthodox or conventional drugs through both p-glycoprotein (P-gp) and cytochrome P450 enzymes inhibition. Hence, it is vital to explore the possibility of herb- drug interactions when concomitantly taking conventional drug dosage forms with some of the WEPs. P-gp and CYP3A4 show analogous substrate specificities and work together to establish an intestinal absorption barrier against xenobiotics. This study investigated the ex vivo p-glycoprotein inhibition and the in vitro inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) isoezyme by selected wild edible plants to identify potential food/herb-drug interactions.Item Challenges of Open Distance Learning: Insights from Nursing Students at the National University of Lesotho(Science Publishing Group, 2024-09-20) Letsae, Thapelo John; Mahlelehlele, Bokang Amelia; Maja, Lineo J; Phiri, Letuka JamesBackground: The implementation of an E-learning pedagogical model of education for Bachelor of Nursing Science students presents obstacles, including delayed assignment completion, insufficient class participation, low competency, and job loss. Objective: To explore nursing students’ challenges associated with open distance learning at the National University of Lesotho. Methodology: A quantitative cross-sectional survey design was used in this study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data and was distributed to Participants online through google forms. The study was conducted for the period of three weeks in the month of May 2024. The data was analyzed descriptively using Statistical Package of Social Sciences. Results: A total of 58 students responded, out of which 93% experienced challenges during open distance learning while 7% did not. About 81% of Participants struggled with technology, while 71% complained about unreliable internet and personal issues that affected their study during open distance learning. Furthermore, environmental factors interrupted communications among learners and instructors. Issues of unreliable internet, impaired interaction, insufficient built-in support, institutional organization and personal factors that affected open distance learning were revealed. Conclusion: The research findings provide insight on the need to efficiently implement open distance learning for nursing students. Challenges experienced by nursing students that affected their learning include struggling with technology, requiring built-in support systems, and the need to secure an internet connection during open distance learning. Furthermore, prior planning for open distance learning is necessary for proper organization and management of personal issues affecting open distance learningItem Navigating challenges and opportunities in nursing education(Science Publishing Group, 2024-09-11) Molefi, Eliot Molefi; Mpemi, Mamello Regina; Phiri, Letuka James; Mahlelehlele, Bokang Amelia; Nthabane, Titi NellyGlobally, student frustration and attrition rates are declining, underscoring the importance of investigating the academic and interpersonal challenges that students face after their first year. Objectives: exploring the experiences of National University of Lesotho student nurses on their course of education. Method: A qualitative phenomenological research design was used to conduct research at the National University of Lesotho. Data was collected using an unstructured interview guide in two focus groups comprising all student nurses who are enrolled in the nursing and midwifery programme from their second year into the programme. This study employed a stratified random sampling procedure to select its respondents. This study made use of thematic analysis. Results: The results demonstrated clinical weariness caused by a severe workload. The tasks and responsibilities assigned to the students, which they consider to be the duties of registered nurses, frequently leave them feeling overburdened. Variations in clinical supervision experiences include negligence; some experience sexual abuse; and some students find the clinical setting quite unpleasant and inappropriate. On the other hand, students expressed that they are empowered by the current nursing curriculum to face the clinical challenges. Conclusion: Despite appreciating the faculty's supportive and inspiring environment, students had conflicting emotions about the instructional approaches and learning environments. There were variations in both instructional quality and clinical supervisionItem Knowledge of disease condition and medications among hypertension patients in Lesotho(CrossMark, 2015-10-23) Mugomeri, Eltony; Ramathebane, Maseabata M; Maja, Lineo J; Chatanga, Peter; Moletsane, LipalesaThis study evaluated the levels of knowledge of hypertension and the associated medications among hypertension patients in Lesotho and assessed the significance of these indicators on hypertension treatment outcomes. About 81% (n ¼ 212) of the patients had hypertension monocondition while the remaining had multiple chronic conditions. Seventy-six percent of the patients had uncontrolled hypertension. Nearly 36% had inadequate knowledge about hypertension while 44% had inade- quate knowledge about their medicines. In total, 52.4% of the patients defaulted appointment dates while 64.6% failed to take their medications as prescribed at least once. Inadequate knowledge of antihypertensive medicines was significantly associated (P ¼ .028) with having uncontrolled hypertension. Inadequate knowledge of antihypertensive medicines is an important determinant of uncontrolled hypertension. Improving the knowledge of hypertension and the associated medica- tions is an important intervention required in this population.Item Assessment of patient counselling in diabetic and hypertensive patients in terms of patient knowledge about their medication, disease state and lifestyle modifications by pharmacy personnel at LDF clinic in Maseru(INNOVARE Academic Sciences, 2018-02-13) Maja, Lineo J; Masia, Thabiso; Binyane, Kabelo; Ramathebane, Maseabata MObjective: To investigate if diabetic and hypertensive patients were being adequately counselled by pharmacy personnel about their medication, disease states and lifestyle modifications at Lesotho defence force (LDF) clinic in Maseru. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among diabetic and hypertensive patients treated at LDF clinic in Maseru from March to May 2017. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data in a face-to-face interview with patients. Microsoft Excel 2010 was used to analyse collected data. Results: The study population consisted of 222 participants; 22 (28.2%) of diabetic. respondents had inadequate knowledge of diabetes mellitus complications and 56 (71.8%) had no knowledge of complications. 153 (78.8%) of hypertensive respondents had inadequate knowledge of hypertension complications and 33 (17.1%) had no knowledge of complications. 56 (25.2%) had adequate knowledge of lifestyle modifications of diabetes mellitus and hypertension and 164 (73.9%) had inadequate knowledge. 182 (82.0%) had adequate knowledge of their anti-hypertensive and anti-diabetic medicines names, 20 (9.0%) had inadequate knowledge and 20 (9.0%) had no knowledge. 63 (28.4%) had adequate knowledge of their medicines strengths, 17 (7.7%) had inadequate knowledge and 142 (64.0%) had no knowledge. 199 (89.6%) respondents had adequate knowledge of dosing frequency and 20 (9.0%) had inadequate knowledge. Conclusion: Hypertensive and diabetic patients’ knowledge about medication, disease states and lifestyle modifications were inadequate due to poor patient counselling on such aspects by pharmacy personnel at LDF clinic in Maseru.Item Pharmacists'perspective on HIV testing services in community pharmacies in Maseru, Lesotho(IJCRLS, 2018-03-30) Maja, Lineo J; Polile, Rasemoko; Khoarai, Neo; Ramathebane, Maseabata MObjective: To assess pharmacists’ perspectives on offering HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) testing services in community pharmacies in Maseru, Lesotho. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted among pharmacists working in community pharmacies around Maseru urban area in Lesotho. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data in a face-to-face interview with pharmacists. Statistical package for social sciences (SPSS®) version 16.0 was used to analyze collected data. Results: Out of 40 respondents, 32 (80.0%) do not offer HIV testing and counseling services and 35 (87.5%) thought rapid HIV testing should be offered in community pharmacies. 27 (67.5%) respondents said it was possible to offer HIV testing services in community pharmacies and 22 (55.0%) respondents said community pharmacies were not ready to offer HIV testing services. Of the 40 respondents, 11 (27.5%) were trained in HIV testing and counseling and most respondents (31, 77.5%) felt comfortable to offer HIV testing services. Conclusion: Pharmacists in community pharmacies were willing to offer HIV testing and counseling although majority of pharmacists did not offer these services as they thought community pharmacies were not ready and also due to lack of pharmacists education on HIV testing and counselingItem Knowledge attitudes and practice about HIV transmission, prevention and treatment among elderly patients with HIV/AIDS in rural Lesotho(IJRIMCR, 2021-01-26) Ramathebane, Maseabata M; Maja, Lineo J; Moletsane, Lipalesa; Sello, Molungoa; Sayed, Rauf ALesotho is one of the world’s countries hardest hit by HIV, with the second highest HIV prevalence after Swaziland. Elderly persons face many prevention challenges such as lack of knowledge in HIV/AIDS, discrimination and stigmatization that can lead to late testing, diagnosis and reluctance in seeking medical services. This is the first study conducted in Lesotho to assess knowledge regarding HIV transmission, prevention and treatment among elderly patients in rural Lesotho. Methods: The study population composed of elderly HIV/AIDS patients aged ≥ 50 years, receiving clinical services within the catchment of four rural clinics of Maseru districts. A random sample of medical records of patients living with HIV/AIDS was selected from each of the four clinics. After intervention interview were carried out using the same tool that was used at baseline. Results: Before intervention, a total of 269 patients were interviewed. Majority of the patients were females (65.8%) and had achieved only a primary level of education (71.4%). A composite score was derived from all the questions relating to knowledge about HIV transmission and treatment. A patient who achieved a composite score ≥ 75% was defined as having ‘adequate knowledge’. The results showed that only 34.2% of the patients had adequate knowledge of transmission and treatment of HIV/AIDS. Adequate knowledge about HIV transmission, prevention and treatment was significantly associated with gender, females being more knowledgeable than males (OR=1.9, 95% CI: 1.1-3.5; P=0.022). Patients with secondary or higher level of education being more knowledgeable than those with less education (OR=2.8, 95% CI: 1.1-7.8; P=0.021). After controlling for age, gender and educational level, the results from multivariate logistic regression analysis showed similar associations to the unadjusted ORs. Over one-third of the patients (36.8%) had unprotected sex. After intervention, a total of 183 patients were interviewed. Patients with no formal education gained more knowledge (OR=6.5 95% CI: 1.5-59.3; P=0.005). Males also gained more knowledge after intervention (OR=4.4, 95% CI: 1.6-14.9; P=0.001). Age group of + 65 also gained more knowledge (OR=6.5 95% CI: 1.5-59.3; P=0.005). Conclusion: There is a lack of knowledge about transmission and prevention among elderly patients living with HIV/AIDS in rural Lesotho. It is imperative that a targeted strategy be developed for this vulnerable group, taking into cognisance their inherent lower level of education and to improve access to services. After intervention there was a significant amount of knowledge gained particularly by the groups of patients that had less knowledge about HIV transmission and prevention.Item HIV Self-testing in Southern Africa(IJRIMCR, 2019-12-29) Sello, Molungoa; Ramathebane, Maseabata M; Maja, L.J; Shelile, M.Z; Namole, L.DPitfalls of HIV testing in health care facilities include fears over loss of privacy and confidentiality. HIV self-testing represents an innovative strategy to expand access to HIV testing services in the general population and also to reach individuals at high risk for HIV who may not otherwise submit to HIV testing, including young people and key populations. We conducted a systematic review of observational studies done in southern African countries between the 1st January 2016 to 15th March 2018 on HIVST with focus on progress made and challenges observed. Thirteen (13) observational studies satisfied the inclusion criteria. These studies were published between January 2016 and March 2018 across five southern African countries namely Zambia (3), Malawi (2), South Africa (5), Zimbabwe (1), Botswana (1). There was also a study done in both Malawi and Zimbabwe (1). HIVST is highly acceptable in southern Africa despite challenges ranging from gender differences, acquisition of test kits, lack of pre-test and post-test counseling, potential social harm and inadequate ability to following user’s instructions.Item Quantitative exploration of barriers to access cancer patients in Lesotho(AOSIS, 2024-07-08) Ramathebane, Maseabata M; Sooro, Mopa A; Maja, Lineo J; Mputsoe, Kabelo; Sello, Molungoa; Mokhethi, Motselisi CBackground: Cancer mortality has been estimated to increase in sub-Saharan Africa to more than a million deaths in 2023. There is a need for an increase in cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment infrastructure to curb this rise in cancer mortality. Many people with cancer face significant barriers to accessing treatment. Aim: The study aimed to explore barriers to accessing cancer care services experienced by cancer patients in Lesotho. Setting: This study was conducted at the Senkatana oncology clinic in Maseru, Lesotho. Methods: The study adopted a quantitative cross-sectional design. Cancer patient interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire. Results: A total of 115 patients responded to the questionnaire, and 79.1% were female. Over half of the participants (53.9%) found it difficult to access cancer services because they had to get services from multiple healthcare facilities in different areas. All of them had to join long queues. Distance from the healthcare facilities was also a challenge for a significant number (64.3%), and a substantial number (66.1%) had difficulties arranging transport to such facilities. Finally, financial issues, such as paying for transport, healthcare and diagnostic tests, were determined to be major constraints. Conclusion: The study concludes that most cancer patients face financial and practical barriers. This affects access to cancer services, particularly for patients not residing in Maseru. Contribution: The study shares information regarded as barriers to cancer services in a low- and middle-income country.Item Assessing challenges and opportunities of treating breast cancer in Lesotho(Medical Research Archives/European Society of Medicine, 2023-11-30) Ramathebane, Maseabata M; Maja, Lineo J; Sooro, Mopa; Sello, Molungoa; Mokhethi, Motselisi; Mputsoe, KabeloItem Reviewing the availability and integration of community health information system for HIV/AIDS in Lesotho(AOSIS, 2024-05-09) Ramathebane, Maseabata M; Maja, Lineo J; Letsolo, Mosala; Montsi, SelloBackground: Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is an integral part of the Sustainable Development Goals, with community-based services playing a crucial role. Various stakeholders contribute to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) interventions, which must be documented and shared with others for informed decision-making. Aim: This study aims to review the availability of a community health information system (CHIS) in Lesotho and its integration between the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the National AIDS Commission (NAC). Setting: The study is based on the Ministry of Health and the National AIDS Commission in Maseru, Lesotho. Method: A scoping review used peer-reviewed articles, documents from MOH and NAC, and other relevant reports from non-governmental organisations. The community information systems were examined for inclusion of clinical and non-clinical information. Possible linkages of information between MOH and NAC were reviewed. Results: Clinical information from CSOs is recorded in DHIS2 at the MOH facilities, while non-clinical information is reported in LOMSHA. However, clinical information from VHWs is currently not included in DHIS2 and formal reporting tools are being developed. There are no links between MOH and NAC, which limits information sharing. Conclusion: Although a CHIS exists, it lacks the necessary linkages. Community-based information from VHWs is not reported through DHIS2. Therefore, the country does not benefit fully from community-based health information. Contribution: Community health information systems review has never been conducted in Lesotho before. Therefore, this review will raise awareness about its importance and use in decision-making