Tetanus Experiences in Northwestern Tanzania
Author Information
Author(s): Chalya Phillipo L, Mabula Joseph B, Dass Ramesh M, Mbelenge Nkinda, Mshana Stephen E, Gilyoma Japhet M
Primary Institution: Weill-Bugando University College of Health Sciences
Hypothesis
What are the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of tetanus patients in a tertiary hospital in Tanzania?
Conclusion
Tetanus remains a significant public health issue in our center, with high morbidity and mortality rates despite advanced management facilities.
Supporting Evidence
- 43.1% of patients died during the study.
- 97.1% of patients had generalized tetanus.
- 54.9% of patients experienced complications.
- Only 23.5% of patients had prior tetanus immunization.
- Most patients were farmers, indicating a link between occupation and risk.
Takeaway
Tetanus is a serious disease that can be prevented with vaccines, but many people in Tanzania still get it, especially young men who work outdoors.
Methodology
This was a ten-year retrospective study analyzing patients diagnosed with tetanus at Bugando Medical Centre.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to missing data on some patients.
Limitations
Some patients had incomplete information due to the retrospective nature of the study.
Participant Demographics
The majority of patients were young males, with a male to female ratio of 11.8:1 and 74.5% aged under 40.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.002
Confidence Interval
95% C.I.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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