Prevalence of Common Medical Conditions Among Children Residing in Orphanages in Kaduna State, Nigeria
Background: Orphanhood is a global issue, worsened in sub-Saharan Africa by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Nigeria faces a growing orphan population due to violence, terrorism, and natural disasters. Orphans endure child abuse, labor exploitation, trafficking, HIV exposure, limited education, malnutrition, stigmatization, and psychological challenges. Despite interventions, care often focuses on material needs, neglecting medical, social, and psychological well-being. Comprehensive care integrating medical, socioeconomic, legal, and psychosocial support is essential. This study assesses the medical and social challenges of orphans in Kaduna, Nigeria.
Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 100 orphans in Kaduna orphanages. Structured, interviewer-administered questionnaires collected data on socio-demographic characteristics, medical conditions, behavioral patterns, stigma, psychosocial status, and coping mechanisms. Pilot-testing ensured data quality. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, mean, median, mode) and cross-tabulation analyzed relationships between variables. Results were presented in tables and charts.
Results: The mean age of respondents was 10 years, with 68% male. About 40.2% felt well and energetic, and 54.9% had access to a balanced diet. Half (50.0%) sought hospital care regularly. Significant health concerns included 53.7% underweight, 33.7% with clinical illness signs, and 46.7% not fully immunized. Behavioral issues were prevalent: 27.0% had hyperactivity disorders, 1.8% major depressive disorder, and 22.3% enuresis. Despite challenges, 83.3% reported positive peer relationships, though 11.4% were bullied and 9% faced peer stigmatization. Educational access was high, with only 2.2% not attending school, and 89.2% had good self-esteem. Social support was moderate, with 35.2% indicating strong support and 46.8% adapting goals to cope.
Conclusion: This study highlights the significant medical and social problems faced by orphans living in orphanages in Kaduna. Many orphans suffer from health issues, with a considerable number not fully immunized and displaying behavioral disorders. A portion of the respondents also struggles with poor self-esteem. Nonetheless, the majority have access to education and demonstrate resilience in coping with their circumstances. These findings underscore the need for a more holistic approach to orphan care, with greater attention to medical, psychosocial, and behavioral health support.
Keywords: Orphanhood, HIV/AIDS, sub-Saharan Africa, Nigeria, violence, terrorism, natural disasters, child abuse, labor exploitation, trafficking, education, malnutrition, stigmatization, psychological challenges, comprehensive care, medical support, psychosocial support.
