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Introduction: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) are premenstrual disorders characterized by a cyclical pattern of severe premenstrual symptoms experienced by women, which typically occurs during the days prior to menstruation and ends at the onset of menses. These symptoms may be unbearable in some women and hinder normal daily life including personal relationships, social activities, work and academic activities. The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence and severity of PMS among female students. Material and methods: PMS and PMDD were diagnosed using the Calendar of Premenstrual Experiences (COPE) form. Participants were requested to complete the form for two consecutive menstrual cycles. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in 480 female students (aged 15 to 45 years) at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Results: Of the 480 participants, 206 (42.9%) women met the criteria for diagnosis of PMS, and 274 (57.1%) did not meet the criteria for PMS. Among participants with PMS, 98 (47.6%) women met the criteria for severe PMS or PMDD. In women with PMS, the most prevalent symptoms were trouble concentrating (85.0%), irritability (79.2%), abdominal bloating (75.3%), aches and pains (70.0%), mood swings (69.2%), breast tenderness (69.2%), and food craving (68.0%). Conclusions: The prevalence of PMS, as well as PMDD, was high among female students in Nigeria.

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Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is characterized by a combination of emotional, physical, psychological, and mood disturbances that occur after a woman's ovulation, typically ending with the onset of her menstrual flow. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe condition of PMS which can be very disabling, as it affects occupational activities and personal relationships. Globally, PMS occurs in 30-40% of women of reproductive age, with 3-8% of this population being affected by PMDD. Despite several studies, the etiology of PMS still remains unclear; however, most theories suggest that PMS has increased sensitivity to normal hormonal changes as well as neurotransmitter abnormalities. Treatment of PMS often requires pharmacological interventions. Serotonergic antidepressants are the mainstay for improving both physical and mood symptoms. Oral contraceptives are also effective for relieving physical symptoms. Other non-pharmacological interventions include lifestyle modification and cognitive behavioral therapy.

Background Severe foodborne disease outbreaks have occurred in different continents of the globe in recent decades, particularly due to ineffective food laws, regulatory systems and inadequate food handling knowledge among food handlers and consumers. The purpose of the present study was to assess the food safety knowledge and practices among secondary school students in rural parts of Kogi State, Nigeria. Methods A cross-sectional study using self-administered questionnaires was carried out between October and December, 2017. The study was carried out in two public secondary schools located in a rural area in Kogi State, North-central Nigeria. All consenting students in both schools were recruited for the study. Descriptive analysis and chi-square (χ2) tests were carried out using Statistical Package for Service Solutions v.20. Results A total of 259 out of 300 survey questionnaires were completed and returned (86.33%). The mean age of the study participants was 15.9 ± 2.5 years. There were more males than females (55.2%, n = 143). The mean percent knowledge score was 75.79%. The mean percent practice score was 82.48%. More than half (n = 143, 55.2%) respondents had a good knowledge level, and 54.4% (n = 141) had a good practice level. A significant association was found only between food hygiene knowledge and mothers’ education (χ2 = 9.49, p = 0.023). Conclusion The overall food safety knowledge and practice among the secondary school students surveyed was good. Targeted educational interventions on food safety can be made to improve knowledge and practice of food hygiene among students.