American Journal of Public Health Research

Iodine and Moisture Content of Salt Sold in the Diffun Community Market: Responding to Iodine Deficiency

Angela Mae S. Tomas, Kenneth John Babaran, Madeilyn B. Estacio — 2026-05-08

Iodine deficiency disorder (IDD) remains a persistent public health concern in developing countries despite the implementation of universal salt iodization programs including policies such as the Philippine ASIN Law (RA 8172). Variations in salt processing, packaging, and storage may affect iodine stability and compromise program effectiveness. This study assessed the iodine and moisture content of salt sold in the Diffun Community Market, Quirino Province, Philippines, and evaluated their compliance with national iodization standards. A cross-sectional descriptive-analytical design was employed using total enumeration sampling, including 40 salt samples collected from 30 retail vendors. Samples were classified according to texture (refined or rock salt), packaging status (repacked or manufacturer-sealed), and storage conditions (dry/dark or moist/open). Iodine content was determined using WYD iodine testing kit, while moisture content was measured using a digital moisture analyzer. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics including t-test, chi-square tests, and Pearson correlation at 0.05 level significance. Result showed a mean iodine content of 44.29 ± 28.41 mg/kg, indicating general compliance with ASIN Law standards. However, 22.5% of samples were iodine deficient. Most samples met acceptable moisture limits. Refined salt showed significantly higher iodine content and lower moisture level compared to rock salt (p <0.05). Packaging and storage conditions showed no significant differences, although trends suggested reduced iodine retention in repacked and poorly stored samples. Iodine content was significantly associated with texture (r = -0.483, p= 0.002) and packaging (r = 0.384, p = 0.014). These findings indicate that while compliance is generally achieved, inconsistencies in iodization and handling persist. Strengthening monitoring, improving packaging practices, and enhancing vendor awareness are recommended to ensure consistent iodine intake.

Knowledge and Attitudes towards Cervical Cancer Screening among Women of Reproductive Age in Kanyama Compound, Lusaka, Zambia

2026-05-10

Background: Cervical cancer remains the fourth most frequent cancer in women globally and is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Zambia, which has the third highest incidence worldwide (71.5 per 100,000 women). Despite free screening services, uptake remains low in underserved urban areas like Kanyama Compound. This study assessed the level of knowledge and attitudes towards cervical cancer screening among women of reproductive age. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 385 women aged 18–49 years attending Kanyama First Level Hospital. Participants were recruited using simple random sampling. Data were collected using a semi-structured, researcher-assisted questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were computed using SPSS version 16.0. Results: The majority of respondents (80.3%) demonstrated adequate knowledge of cervical cancer. Health personnel (32.7%) and media (31.6%) were the primary information sources. Bleeding after sexual intercourse was the most recognized symptom (36.4%). However, 64.6% did not know what cervical cancer screening entails, and 44.9% could not identify any benefits of screening. Negative attitudes towards screening were observed in 58.4% of respondents, and 58.7% had never been screened. Marital status (p = 0.008) and level of education (p = 0.001) were significantly associated with knowledge. Conclusion: Although most women had adequate general knowledge about cervical cancer, significant gaps existed regarding screening procedures and benefits. Negative attitudes and low screening uptake persist. Targeted health promotion through mass media in local languages, training of community health workers, and strengthening of reproductive health services are recommended

Improving Patient Experience through a Multi-Intervention Approach in ER and OPD at Prince Sultan Military Hospital – Taif

2026-05-13

Patient experience is a key measure of healthcare quality and performance. At Prince Sultan Military Hospital – Taif, baseline feedback in Quarter 2 of 2025 revealed long waiting times, inconsistent communication, and limited patient engagement across the Emergency Department (ER) and Outpatient Clinics (OPD). A comprehensive quality improvement project was implemented between Quarter 2 and Quarter 3 of 2025 using six interventions: interactive visits emphasizing active listening and empathy, modern communication tools (WhatsApp and QR-code posters), structured staff coaching, welcoming and marketing posters in the ER, post-visits calls, and celebrating successes. Patient experience data were collected using Press Ganey’s validated survey system. The ER score rose from 64.24% to 72.98% (+8.74 points), while OPD increased from 66.84% to 69.19% (+2.35 points). The most significant improvements were observed in communication, empathy, and personal issues domains. Integrating human, digital, and feedback-driven touchpoints produced measurable improvements in patient experience. Continued leadership support, staff motivation, and systematic feedback review are essential to sustain and expand these achievements.