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Article History

Received: 24 October 2024

Accepted: 3 January 2025

First Online: 11 January 2025

Declarations

:

: The study received ethical approval from the University of Health and Allied Sciences Research Ethics Committee (UHAS-REC) under reference number UHAS-REC B.10 [086]23-24. Before initiating data collection, formal permission was sought from the three Health Directorates to ensure compliance with local regulations. Informed consent was obtained from all participants, emphasizing the importance of voluntary participation. For participants under 16 years, written consent from their parents or guardians was secured alongside verbal assent from the minors, ensuring they understood their involvement. For those aged 16 and above, informed consent was documented via signatures or thumbprints. Verbal consent was also encouraged to clarify any uncertainties. Participants' confidentiality was upheld using pseudonyms, and all data were stored securely in an encrypted, password-protected database, accessible only to the Principal Investigator and the research supervisor. This approach adhered to ethical standards, ensuring participant protection and data integrity throughout the research process.

: Not applicable.

: The authors declare no competing interests.