During pregnancy calcium demand increases due to increase requirement by the developing foetus. This demand is met by dietary calcium intake. Physiological changes in pregnancy tend to lower calcium and calcium homeostasis is maintained by various hormones. The present study was done to find association of sociodemographic factors of the pregnant women with hypocalcaemia. Material and methods: 100 women in their third trimester of pregnancy were included in the study after obtaining written informed consent. After detail history and examination, 5 ml venous blood is collected to measure serum ionic calcium. Data were entered in to MS Excel sheet and analysed. Results: Normal serum ionic calcium range is 4.2 – 5.5 mg%. Out of 100 women 36% women had hypocalcaemia. There was no significant association between hypocalcaemia and age (p=0.8), residence (p=0.6), religion (p=0.1), socio-economic status (p=0.8). There was significant association between hypocalcaemia and literacy status (p-0.02). Women with past history of preterm birth and abortion had more risk of having hypocalcaemia. There was a negative correlation between maternal age and mean serum ionic calcium level. Conclusion: Hypocalcaemia is common in pregnancy. Hypocalcaemia was more common in women who were above 25 years of age, muslim, illiterate, belonging to lower and middle socio-economic status and multiparous. Risk of hypocalcaemia was more in women with gestational age below 34 weeks. All women in their antenatal period should be screened for hypocalcaemia and calcium should be supplemented routinely to all women during antenatal period. Keywords: Hypocalcaemia, pregnancy, socio-demographic factors

ABSTRACT Diphtheria is an acute bacterial disease produced by Corynebacterium diphtheriae and spreads through respiratory droplets or through skin lesions of those infected. While susceptible individuals span all ages, the highest impact is observed in children under five and adults over sixty. The objective of this study is to examine awareness, etiological factors, and prevention strategies related to diphtheria among residents of Gidan Mongoro Community, Minna, in Niger State. State. 54% of the respondents were male, and 48% were female. 28% of the respondents were 18-22 years, 38% were 23-28 years, and 34% of the respondents were 29-35 years. 8% of the respondents were SSCE holders, 48% were Diploma holder, 24% were B.Sc. holder, and 2% were M.Sc. holder, while none of the respondents choose PhD as their option. 66% of the respondents said they have heard of diphtheria, while 34% said they haven’t. 38% of the respondents said they have had encounter with someone who had diphtheria, while 62% said they have not had such experiences before. 48% of the respondent said they know the causes of diphtheria, while 52% said they have no idea on the causes of diphtheria. 88% of the respondents said yes that there is available vaccine for prevention and treatment of diphtheria, while 12% said they have no idea about it. The findings shed light on the current level of knowledge, common misconceptions, and the community\\\'s perception of diphtheria. The study also identified key recommendations to enhance prevention and control efforts in the community. It was recommended that comprehensive health education campaigns should be conducted to raise awareness and enhance knowledge about diphtheria, its causes, symptoms, and preventive measures. These campaigns should be culturally sensitive, utilizing multiple communication channels and involving community leaders and local organizations to maximize their reach and impact.