Indian Journal of Preventive and Social Medicine

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Addressing obesity among females: The need for focused strategies in National programmes
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2022-06) Jasrotia, A.; Mehta, A.; Saxena, V.
Prevalence of obesity is increasing in both developed and developing countries. India is also facing a double burden of malnutrition as already existing malnutrition and increasing prevalence of obesity. Evidence suggests that prevalence of obesity is more in women as compared to men due to consumption of pre-packed energy-dense food, hormonal change during pregnancy and menopause. Obese females are more prone to life style diseases and abdominal obesity increases the risk of metabolic syndrome and is strongly related to poly cystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Obesity’s impact can be seen in the life cycle of women. It not only impacts the physical health of women but on her psychological, social, reproductive and social well-being which hampers her overall health. To address obesity various programmes and interventions have already been formulated by the Government of India. Need is to address the issue of obesity at every stage of women’s life cycle and this can be done by adding some interventions in already existing programmes.
Advancements in Diagnostic Techniques for Tuberculosis and Multidrug- Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB): Challenges and future perspective of Molecular Diagnostic Methods
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-03) Kumari, S.; Singh, S.; Dhariyal, R. S.
Tuberculosis remains a contagious disease-causing significant health challenge. The surfacing of multidrug- resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) has now begun to be a major cause of tuberculosis burden. The only way to control and manage tuberculosis is to promote accurate and timely diagnosis. This review explores the various techniques to diagnose tuberculosis and focuses on the advancements in diagnostic techniques for identification of MDR-TB. It includes various conventional techniques like sputum smear microscopy method, culture methods, and other molecular based diagnostic assays like Genexpert, Whole-genome sequencing, line probe assay etc. The comparative review is based on their sensitivity, limitations, point-of-care devices, affordability and accessibility. This analysis embraces the general diagnostic consideration of pediatric patients also. Moreover, it discusses the future perspectives to overcome the existing limitations.
Antibiotics in the times of COVID 19’- A Mixed-Methods study among patients attending OPD of an Urban Health Centre of West Bengal
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2022-12) Jaiswal, A. A.; Paul, B.; AS, R.
Introduction: Antibiotic Resistance has become a global threat attributable to the overuse and misuse of Antibiotics and exacerbated by the ongoing COVID19 pandemic. Objective: Present Mixed Methods study, envisages finding out the knowledge and practice regarding Antibiotic usage and exploring changes if any brought about due to the pandemic among patients attending OPD of an Urban Health Centre in Kolkata. Method: Study was conducted from May to July 2021, in the urban field practice area of the institute. The quantitative component was evaluated by interviewing 200 patients using a pretested questionnaire and the Qualitative component was evaluated up to the point of data saturation in 3 FGDs. SPSS was used to analyze the Quantitative component, while the Qualitative component was analyzed thematically. Results: Among the 200 participants, self-medication with Antibiotics was seen in 74.0%; 26.0% had satisfactory Knowledge regarding Antibiotics and their use, whereas only 19.5% had satisfactory Practice regarding the same. Education and Health Literacy Score were significant predictors associated with unsatisfactory Knowledge and Practice regarding Antibiotic usage patterns. Economic constraints, Lack of transportation during the lockdown, and fear of institutional quarantine were some of the major factors which further contributed to Antibiotic misuse during the COVID19 pandemic. Conclusion: Advocacy for increasing health literacy, overall literacy status, and awareness regarding the perils of Antibiotic Resistance using appropriate IEC by health providers would be beneficial in the long run to prevent Antibiotic resistance. With that said, strict government regulations along with curbing the fallacies in the health system would further aid in making people use Antibiotics wisely.
Assessing Knowledge and Behaviour Towards HIV/AIDS among the school students: A cross sectional study
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2022-03) Gupta, S.; Singh, R.; Shukla, K. K
Background: Inadequate knowledge of advance, absence of exact health data, and the prohibitions associated with sex education at homes and schools, indulgence in risky behavior and a lack of access to adequate reproductive health services further lends the adolescents susceptible to AIDS. Aim & Objectives: In the present study, the knowledge and behavior towards HIV/AIDS among students in selected school have been assessed. Material & Methods: Primary data has been taken from selected school with the help of structured questionnaire tools; school is located at Bhaipur Brahman village in Jewar block of Gautam Budh Nagar district, India. Univariate and Bivariate tables as well as chi-square test have been applied to know the association between demographic variables of students and their response. Results: It was found that more than 65 % students were aware about HIV/AIDS. About 31% of students were reported that it cannot be transmit through sharing syringes where equal responses have been observed by male and female students. Conclusions: It was observed that they had inadequate knowledge towards HIV/AIDS especially among age group10-13 years. Most of them have good attitude towards HIV/AIDS infected person.
Assessing Sensory Sensitivity and Behavioural Feeding Problems among children with Developmental Disabilities: A Pilot Study
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, 2024-12) Verma, B; Dey, M; Sehgal, R.
Introduction: Developmental disabilities prevalence appears to be significant worldwide. Sensory sensitivity has also been associated with behavioural feeding problems among children with developmental disabilities. Objectives: To assess & seek a relationship between sensory sensitivity & behavioural feeding problems among children with developmental disabilities and to seek an association between sensory sensitivity & behavioural feeding problems among developmentally disabled children with selected factors. Research methodology: The study used a descriptive survey research design including 50 children aged 6 -11 years diagnosed with ASD, ADHD, Intellectual Disability, Cerebral Palsy, Specific Language Disability and Down syndrome attending Child Guidance Centre OT4 Kids, selected via purposive sampling technique. Down SyndromeData collected through structured interviews, anthropometric measurements, and standardized tools i.e. Parent completed Glasgow Sensory Questionnaire and Behavioural Paediatric Feeding Assessment to assess sensory sensitivity and behavioural feeding problems. Result: Children with developmental disabilities had higher sensory sensitivity scores in cerebral palsy while Autism, ADHD, Intellectual Disability and Down syndrome have similar mean scores. The study found a significant positive correlation (p= 0.011) betweenhyposensitivity score and behavior pediatric feeding frequency and (p=0.03) problem score among children with developmental disabilities. Conclusion: Problematic parental feeding strategies along with behavioural feeding problems among children with developmental disabilities are associated with sensory hyper & hypo sensitivities found in these vulnerable populations.
Assessing walker users’ preferences and concerns regarding wearable adaptive assistive rehabilitation
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-06) George, CT; V, S
The use of assistive devices has gained popularity among individuals with mobility impairments. Wearable Adaptive Assistive Rehabilitation Technologies (AART) provides innovative solutions to enhance mobility and quality of life. However, despite their benefits, assistive devices pose challenges in usability, accessibility, and long-term impact. This study examines walker user preferences, concerns, and caregiver involvement, offering insights for improving assistive device design and support systems. A quantitative approach was used, with 100 participants (100%) reporting improved quality of life after using walkers. The results reveal significant associations between walker usage, physical discomfort, and mobility support, with 34% of users under 20 years old and 77% needing assistance for 0-2 years. Caregivers play a crucial role, with spouses (62%) being the primary providers, followed by parents (36%) and children (12%). The study underscores the need for customizable walker designs, caregiver training, emotional support, and public infrastructure improvements, ultimately promoting independence and mobility.
An assessment of availability of Health Services and Manpower in Community Health Centers and Primary Health Centers in Rural Haryana
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, 2024-09) Kumar, M.
In India, the health care services and facilities are distributed randomly. Some areas have more health facilities available than the need of that particular area whereas majorities of areas have more demands for services. India is a country of villages. About 70 percent population of the country is living in the villages. But healthcare facilities and services are very poor in these areas. Government of India started National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) to improve the health of the rural people and reduce the mortality rate, especially vulnerable sections of the society like; women and children. But present study found that there is no impact of this programme in the study area. Present study found that population covered by selected CHCs is above 2.5 times more than recommended population for a CHC. There is also shortage of specialist in both CHCs. All the surveyed PHCs covers 70,322 population on an average which is double than the recommended population. Out of 4, 3 PHCs were in working condition, but facility of institutional delivery is available in Biwan PHC only.
Assessment of Drinking Water Heavy Metal Pollution Index and Associated Health Risk in Northeastern State of India
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-06) Saha, A; Baidya, S; Yadav, A; Sen, S; Bhowmik, K; Das, A; Dey, P
Background: Human exposure to toxic metals by ingestion of contaminated drinking water is a global concern. For human life after air, second most essential requirement is of safe drinking water. Therefore, it is very imperative to assess the quality of drinking water in term of toxic contaminates to prevent human health risk. Objectives: To investigate levels of arsenic (As), iron (Fe) and fluoride (F) in drinking ground and surface water within entire Tripura state, to find out heavy metal pollution index(HPI) and assess the cancer and non-cancer health risk of exposure to these pollutants among local residents of study area. Methods: Arsenic and iron was measured by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer and fluoride by kit method. Water quality index was assessed by heavy metal pollution index (HPI). Human health risk due to intake of As, Fe and F via drinking water was evaluated using hazard quotients (HQ) and incremental lifetime cancer risks (ILCR) for children and adults. Results: Our results reveal in ground water As range 0.1 to 29.2µg/L, Fe 0.11 to 18.62mg/L and F 0.5 to 1.0mg/L.In surface water As range 0.4 to 5.6µg/L, Fe 0.11to 10.58mg/L and F was not detected in surface water.Approximately6% of total samples (N=974), had As concentrations >10?g/L standard value, about 42.84% had Fe>0.3mg/L standards limits, only 0.61% samples had F>1-1.5mg/L. All groundwater falls under the category of high HPI. However, for surface water, the HPI varies across medium, high, and critical categories. The non-carcinogenic health risks due to intake of iron (HQ 0.01-1.77 for children and 0.00-0.76 for adults) and fluoride (HQ 0.56-1.11 for children and 0.24-0.48 for adults) contaminated groundwater are higher among children than adults. Cancer risk resulting due to intake of As contaminated water is about 2 times higher in adults than children. Conclusion: The findings highlighted that the risks of cancer due to arsenic exposure through ingestion was found to exceed the acceptable thresholds in both children and adults. Ground water is prime sources for portable purpose in study areas. Based on occurrences, water quality index and health risk assessment, results emphasize the urgent need for focused attention and supply of safe drinking water in As and Fe affected study area to protect health of local residents.
Assessment of drinking water in a rural area of Patna (Bihar) with special reference to human health
(Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, 2018-03) Sinha, S.K.; Shankar, Ravi
Water quality of rural area of Patna was studied. The water samples from rural area of Patna were collected to assess the quality of potable water. A laboratory test was conducted for assessment of water quality. The physico-chemical and bacteriological parameters were studied. The results obtained were compared with WHO/ICMR standard. Results showed high TDS, hardness at some locations and coliform counts were high at some sampling sites. Conductivity increases with increase of hardness of water. The pH of drinking water samples were followed by the standards recommended by the ICMR or WHO. TDS of water samples showed wide range of variations. Hard water is responsible for cardiovascular diseases. Such quality of water can cause various diseases like diarrhoea, jaundice, typhoid, dysentery etc.
Assessment of impulse oscillometry findings in obstructive lung disease patients in Eastern part of Uttar Pradesh: An observational study
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, 2024-03) Buhlan, R; Mishra, J; Bhatia, M; Raj, GV; Saini, M; Kumar, V; Sahoo, S.
Background: Lung oscillometry is a simple, non-invasive lung function test where multiple frequency pressure waves are forced into the respiratory tract superimposed over normal tidal breathing.It is predicted to be a useful diagnostic tool with a bright future for diagnosing various respiratory disorders.Methodology: An observational study was conducted in eastern part of Uttar Pradesh. All participants (80) who were diagnosed as obstructive lung diseaseon the basis of clinical history, examination and PFT findings were selected and oscillometry was performed. All parameters of oscillometry are then analysed. Result: Z score R5, the sensitivity is 76%, specificity is 83.33%, PPV is 88.37%, NPV is 67.57%, and AUC is 0.240. Z score R5-20 exhibits a sensitivity of 80%, specificity of 63.33%, PPV of 78.43%, NPV of 5.52%, and AUC of 0.152. Z score AX shows a sensitivity of 72%, specificity of 56.67%, PPV of 73.47%, NPV of 54.84%, and AUC of 0.241.Conclusion: Impulse oscillometryis a useful tool inthe diagnosis and evaluation of adult patients with obstructive airway disease.Z scores can be used to define OAD in oscillometry and can give more accurate results.
Assessment of Infrastructure & Manpower in selected PHC's as per IPHS standards in two districts of Arunachal Pradesh: A Cross-sectional descriptive study
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-03) Beyong, K.; Aggarwal, P.; Pulu, J.; Bahurupi, Y.; Dabbas, V
Introduction: Primary Health Centres (PHCs) are pivotal to India's rural healthcare network, providing essential services to communities. This study assessed the infrastructure and manpower at PHCs in Arunachal Pradesh as per IPHS 2022 standards. Aims: To evaluate the infrastructure and manpower components of selected PHCs in East Kameng and Papum Pare districts of Arunachal Pradesh, as per IPHS standards. Methods and Material: A cross-sectional study was conducted in East Kameng and Papum Pare districts, selected through convenience sampling from Arunachal Pradesh's 26 districts. Five PHCs (25%) from each district were randomly selected. Data were collected using the IPHS 2022 checklist and analyzed with Microsoft Excel and IBM SPSS (trial version 25), with results presented as frequencies and percentages. Results: Deficiencies were identified in both infrastructure and manpower. None of the PHCs fully met with IPHS norms. 60% of PHCs had inadequate infrastructure, with poor maintenance and shared service spaces. Only 40% had boundary walls with gates and gender-specific toilets. A major issue was the absence of staff residential quarters in 60% of PHCs. Regarding manpower: 60% of PHCs lacked staff nurses, and 40% were deficient in AYUSH doctors, lab technicians, pharmacists, and sanitation workers. Furthermore, 80% of PHCs did not have data entry operators. Conclusions: There are significant gaps in infrastructure and manpower at PHCs in Arunachal Pradesh, requiring urgent interventions to meet IPHS standards.
Assessment of knowledge Vis-à-vis Food Labels
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2022-09) Sharma, N.; Bahurupi, Y.; Singh, M.; Singh, A.; Aggarwal, P.
Background: Public health initiatives focused on improving food at the community level to reduce the risk of nutritionrelated disorders have gained pace in light of the enormous illness burden associated with chronic diseases connected to nutrition. Delivering straightforward, pertinent, and understandable information regarding the nutritional value of food is the goal of Front of Package Labelling (FoPLs), which are intended to assist consumers in choosing healthier foods at the point of purchase. Methodology: It was a cross-sectional study carried out online through a series of webinars using an online survey platform and a feedback-designed questionnaire to ascertain webinar participants' knowledge of front of package labeling. Results: Among the participants, only 75.4% correctly identified the characteristics of packaged foods that increase the risk of obesity. Also, it was found that 84.7% of the participants knew that food labels had to display complete nutritional information. About 93.6 percent of the individuals were aware of public health initiatives that raise awareness of FOPL. Only 38.9% of the individuals were aware that certain food products were free from labelling, in comparison. Conclusion: Front of package labelling (FOPL) regulation goals must be adopted in order to enable consumers to simply, quickly, and accurately identify items containing extra sugars, trans-fats, oils, and sodium. This will help the Government of India comply with WHO recommendations on unhealthy foods.
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude & Perception towards COVID-19 Vaccine among the rural and urban population of Navi Mumbai: An Alarming Scenario
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2022-09) Sinha, A.; J, M. . M.
Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and perception towards COVID-19 vaccination among rural and urban areas. To study and analyze any socio-demographic barriers and economic factors affecting the immunization program. Methodology: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted between the urban and rural populations with the help of pre-designed and pre-structured questionnaires. Data were collected from 205 subjects from the urban population with the help of Google form and 242 subjects from the rural population through an interview. Results: 97.1% of the urban population were aware of the Arogya Setu app of which 80% were using it while 87.6% of the rural population were not aware of the Arogya Setu app. 60.3% of the rural population had the perception that the Covid-19 vaccine can be eradicated without the vaccine whereas 77.1% of the urban population had the opposite perception. Conclusion: Most of the urban population had good knowledge about the Covid 19 vaccine with a positive attitude of accepting the vaccine as the most important preventive measure of prevention and control of the Covid 19 pandemic as compared to the rural population.
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, Perception and Barriers of E-Learning among medical students : A Cross-Sectional Study
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2022-06) MK, S.; Bhavani, K.; Krishna, G. A.
A learning system based on formalized teaching but with the help of electronic resources is known as E-learning. Countries around the world had imposed large-scale physical distancing measures and movement restrictions often referred to as ‘lockdowns’, to slow COVID?19 transmission by limiting contact between people. Students around the country had to undergo E-learning. The study is conducted to assess the knowledge and perception about E-learning among medical students, to assess the factors which act as a barrier to effective learning via E-learning platforms. A pre-tested questionnaire is sent to the undergraduate students of Osmania Medical College. 117 students were included in the study. Data was collected in Google Forms and analyzed using Google sheets. 91.5% of students had adequate knowledge and only 43.6% of students had a positive attitude towards E-learning. There is no significant difference between men and women in knowledge and attitude.
Assessment of physical and psychosocial health status of people attending Gym
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-03) Ritika, T.; Madhavi, M.; Ratnaprabha, P.; Pradeep, S
Background: Regular physical activity is known for its cardiovascular advantages, yet strenuous exertion can elevate the risk of cardiovascular incidents, including sudden cardiac arrest. Recent cases of young, seemingly healthy individuals experiencing heart attacks during gym workouts highlight this contradiction. This study is to assess the physical and psychosocial health profiles of gym-goers. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted over one year involving 201 gym-goers aged 15-65yrs from the catchment area of tertiary care hospital. Physical and Psychosocial health was evaluated using the Psychological General wellbeing scale (PGWBI-S) short version. Results: The majority of participants (45.2%) were young adults in the age group of 18-30 years and predominantly male (76.1%). Most had normal blood pressure (88.07%) and a BMI in the range of 25-30 (52.2%). Psychological well-being was assessed using (PGWBI-S) short version scale The mean score in the domains like anxiety, vitality1(energy), depressed mood, selfcontrol, positive wellbeing and vitality2(tiredness) were 3.84, 3.51, 3.77, 3.07, 3.21 and 3.36 respectively and majority people attending gym (89%) had total mean score of 20.78 on the scale 0-30. Conclusion: Most of the gym attendees had good physical and psychological health. Most of them maintain normal blood pressure and BMI and follow balanced diets with an emphasis on protein intake. The mean Psychological well-being score is high (20.78) among gym-goers on scale 0-30.
Assessment of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Discomfort among Florists
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-06) Dattani, N; Mishra, U
Introduction: Floristry is a demanding and labour-intensive profession; floral craftsmen engaged in this field frequently encounter varied problems like musculoskeletal discomfort, injuries and accidents arising from repetitive tasks, exposure to chemicals and use of sharp tools. Additionally, poor working conditions, exposure to extreme temperatures, insufficient lighting, high noise levels, and inadequate tools, further exacerbate the physical strain on florists. Objectives: The present study was undertaken to assess work-related musculoskeletal discomfort experienced by florists in the unorganized sector of Mumbai and propose coping strategies. Methodology: Data was collected from 120 male florists involved in crafting floral garlands, jewellery and bouquets from selected Mumbai city and its suburbs. Participants for the present study were selected using purposive sampling technique and data collection was conducted through a semi-structured interview schedule. Results: The results revealed a high prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort among florists, with the wrists and neck (91.66%) being the most affected areas. Discomfort was also reported in the forearms (90%), right upper arm (85%), lower back (83.33%), upper arm (81.66%) and lower legs (80.83%). Conclusion: These results emphasize the need for ergonomic interventions that enhance working conditions and work practices for florists in the unorganized sector. The study also advocates for targeted coping strategies to reduce discomfort and promote better occupational health among this at-risk workforce.
Association of condylar angle with incisal wear and myofunctional therapy – Original Research
(Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, 2018-09) Parihar, Ajit V; Kumar, Naresh; Bhatnagar, Atul; Parihar, Sarita
Introduction: In any normal dentition there is stable relationship between the morphology of the occlusal facets and the movement of the condyles. Change in one of these are compensated by reactive adaptation of another. In the present study, the relation between the incisal wear facets and the condylar inclination were evaluated by checking the changes in condylar angle measurements in patients with incisal wear and those without it. The effect of myofunctional therapy on condylar angle and its correlation pre and post treatment was also established. Materials and Methods: The case group included 50 patients with incisal wear (attrited mandibular incisors) and the control group included 50 patients without incisal wear. 44 samples were taken to evaluate the changes in condylar angle pre and post myofunctional therapy. The posterior slope of articular eminence was marked in the lateral cephalogram and the horizontal condylar angle was drawn by tangent method. Results and Conclusion: The steepness of the condylar angle was found, directly proportional to the mandibular incisal wear. There was decrease in the values of condylar angle in patients after treatment with myofunctional therapy when compared with the pre-treatment values.
Association of intervention with hygiene practices during initiation of Complementary Feeding among infants in rural Varanasi.
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, 2024-03) Yadav, A; Shankar, R; Prasad, R; Srivastava, P.
Background:Hygiene practices like hand washing before and after food preparation, use of separate utensils to feed infants, clean water access and sanitation, play crucial role in preventing diseases among infants, especially when the complementary foods are introduced to them. It’s important to maintain good hygiene practices, specifically, when caring for infants, to minimize the risk of illnesses like diarrhoea, respiratory tract infections, gastrointestinal infections, etc. Regular hand washing, proper food handling, clean and safe storage and maintaining a clean environment are essential for preventing infections in infants. Aims & Objectives:The current study was conducted with an objective to assess the association of intervention with hygiene practices during initiation of complementary feedingamong infants in Harahua block, Varanasi.Methodology:The present study was a prospective interventional study conducted in Harahua, Varanasi, from October, 2021 to November, 2022, for which 2 groups, namely intervention group and control group were assigned. In each group, 112 mother-child pairs were enrolled and were followed up every month till the child attained 1 year. An educational intervention for practising exclusive breastfeeding, proper and timely initiation complementary feeding and benefits of following adequate and proper hygiene practices was given to the respondents (mothers) of intervention group. Data was collected from the respondents after receiving written consent from them. A semi-structured questionnaire was designed to collect thedata which included questions related to socio-demographic characteristics, hand washing and hygiene and feeding practices. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 21. The Chi-square test was used for testing association among variables and a P-value less than 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Thestudy indicated thatbottle-feeding practice was high in the control group (65.2%), as compared to the intervention group (49.1%). Only 48.2% of the mothers fed their babies with bowl and hands in the intervention group. Regular hand washing practice before preparing food for the baby was observed in 39.3% respondents from the intervention group. 49.1% mothers from control group sometimes used soap to wash their hands. It was revealed from the study that 8.9% respondents always used boiled water to prepare food for their babies, while the percentage of respondents using normal water from both groups was same (48.2%). Conclusion: This study observed that although there was a significant association between hygiene practices and intervention given, still there was a lack of knowledge in following proper and appropriate hygiene routines while preparing food for infants in some of the respondents. To cope up with this challenge, a long term interventions are needed to be strictly followed at the community level.
Association of Pre-Diabetes, Diabetes and BMI with family history: A Cross Sectional study in an urban area of Varanasi
(Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, 2019-03) Singh, Reema; Kumar, Alok; Kansal, Sangeeta
Introduction: Diabetes is undoubtedly one of the most challenging health problems in the 21st century. According to The International Diabetes Federation estimation India will have risen in people living with diabetes up to 87.0 million by 2030 from 50.8 million (2010). According to the World Health Organization criteria, the prevalence of known diabetes was 5.6% and 2.7% among urban and rural areas, respectively in 2009. Family history of diabetes is not only a risk factor for the disease but is also positively associated with risk awareness and risk-reducing behaviours. It may provide a useful screening tool for detection and prevention of diabetes. Hence the study was conducted to assess the association between family history with diabetes and pre-diabetes in an urban area of Varanasi. Methodology: A Community based cross-sectional study was conducted during July 2012 to December 2012 among 706 respondents of 20-65 year age group in Sunderpur, Varanasi. Out of which 359 male and 347 females were interviewed by using pretested semi structured interview schedule. Consent was taken to all respondents. Pregnant women and known cases of diabetes respondents were excluded from this study. Fasting Capillary blood glucose level measured with the help of Glucometer. Result: In the present study prevalence of pre-diabetes was 11.8% and diabetes 7.2 %, 0.6% were known diabetic. Out of the total 700 respondents, familial risk was observed only in 10.4%. Out of which 6.7% respondents were having positive family history of one parent and 3.7% were of both parents and siblings. Positive family history was observed more among pre-diabetics 24.4% and diabetics 24% as compared to respondents with normal blood glucose level 15.4%. The association was found to be statistically significant. Significant difference was observed on diabetes, pre-diabetes with family history. Conclusion & Recommendations: Family history of diabetes mellitus was observed in 10.4% of total screened respondents. Out of which 6.7% were having either parent and 3.7% both parents and siblings. Family history of diabetes is indeed a powerful independent risk factor for the diabetes and pre-diabetes. Our efforts should now be directed toward translating this awareness for use in public health programs.
Association of Sociodemographic with Epidemiological Profile of Chronic Wound Patients attending a Tertiary Care Hospital
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, 2024-09) Pratap, A; Singh, T; Kumari, S; Pandey, PK; Patel, VS.
Background & Objective: Chronic wounds havea significant impact on the health of patients and their families, causing pain, loss of function and mobility, depression, distress and anxiety, embarrassment and social isolation, financial burden, prolonged hospital stay and chronic morbidity or even death. This study aims to trace the socio-demographic and the association with epidemiology of chronic wound. Methods:A hospital-based cross-sectional study design was conducted among chronic wound patients between 20 to 76 years old from a tertiary care centre during July 2023 to March 2024.A pre-tested structured schedule was used for data collection. Categorical variables were presented as frequencies and percentages. Bivariate analysis involved the use of the Chi-square test for assessing the significance associations between socio-demographic with epidemiology of chronic wound patients. Results: A total of 240 patients with chronic wound were included in the study. The mean age (±SD) for the enrolled patients was (48.8 ± 11.8) years. The majority of respondents were male (86.3%), Hindu (92.5%), and from nuclear families (81.7%).Employment status varied, with 5% unemployed, 12.5% daily-wagers, and 28.7% engaged in government or private services. Type of family and occupation were found significantly associated with the infected wound while age-group, occupation, and body mass index found significant associated with history of amputation. Conclusions: The study revealed a varied socio-demographic profile among chronic wound patients. This study updates the understanding of chronic wound epidemiology in eastern Uttar Pradesh, highlighting the need for tailored wound care strategies based on demographic profiles. Addressing these factors can potentially optimize treatment outcomes.

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