Indian Journal of Preventive and Social Medicine

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Does the Consumption of Immune Boosting Foods Influence the Body Mass Index in College Going Students?
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-06) Pariat, L; S, T
Introduction: Optimal immune status results from a good balanced nutrition and a physically active lifestyle, ensuring a normal body mass index. The main objective of the present study is to expound the relationship between the Body Mass Index and the intake of specific immune boosting foods. Materials and Methods: 211 college going students in the age group of 18 to 30 years participated in this cross-sectional study. A web-based tool was designed to collect data on anthropometric measurements and food frequency of immune boosting foods such as tea, ginger, garlic and turmeric intake. Ethical clearance was approved from the place of study. Results: The analysis of BMI data indicated that 62.0% of the study participants had a BMI within the normal range (between 18.5 and 24.9), 13.3% were overweight (between 25 and 29.9), and 3.3% were obese. Nineteen per cent of males and 41.2% of females had a WHR above normal. Thirty eight per cent and 34.1 per cent used garlic daily and three days a week, respectively, with a BMI within the normal range (p<0.05). 54.5% and 23.7% used turmeric daily and three days a week, respectively, likewise, 39.8% and 31.3% used ginger daily and three days a week, respectively and had a normal BMI. However, the results showed no statistical significance for turmeric, ginger and tea. Conclusion: Regular consumption of immune boosting foods like turmeric, ginger and garlic may have influenced the body mass index of the study participants.
Level of physical activity among undergraduate physiotherapy students of Delhi NCR
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-06) Kaur, I; Choudhary, A; Kaushik, H
Background: Physical inactivity is a major health issue that affects people worldwide and has significant healthcare and economic implications. A significant correlation exists between physical inactivity and the emergence of non-communicable diseases. The present data to date suggest an epidemic of physical inactivity and NCDs in India. PA and physiotherapy practice are closely linked. Physiotherapists perform diverse functions in the healthcare system, requiring them to engage in activities that demand strength, endurance and flexibility. Aims: Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the physical activity levels of the undergraduate physiotherapy students of Delhi NCR. Methods and Material: An observational study was conducted. Young physiotherapy undergraduate students aged 19-24 with normal BMI values of 18-24.9 Kg/m2 were included in the study. Data was collected in three parts: demographic data, which obtained the characteristics of the participants; physical activity levels using an International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) version; and information related to barriers to PA. Descriptive statistics and chi-square test were used for statistical analysis. Results: The mean age of participants was 21.08 ±1.3 years (range 19–24 years), and 62% were males and 38% were females. According to the IPAQ categorical score, a significant percentage of participants were ‘inactive’ (63%), while only 16% were in the ‘Highly active’ group. Although many students achieved the MET-minutes threshold for ‘Moderate activity’ (21%), it was not achieved on at least 5 days of the week, resulting in the majority being classified as ‘inactive’. Conclusions: A significant negative attitude towards physical activity was observed in a cohort of young- adults with good knowledge about its benefits. The physical fitness level of physiotherapy students is not satisfactory compared to the profession's physical demands.
Perception of academic stress on exposure of online learning during Covid-19 among nursing students
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-06) K, R; N, V; K, SD
Background: COVID-19 disease is causing a slew of public health responses around the world. Closures of schools, colleges, and universities are among the most severe social (physical) barriers utilized to restrict the spread of this deadly disease. Aim of the study: the aim of this survey- cross sectional study was to assess the level of Perceived of academic stress on exposure of online learning during Covid-19 among nursing students across in India. Research Methodology: A Google Form distributed via a WhatsApp group and mail, by convenient sampling technique those who were interested to provide their consent filled out the Google Form. A total of 405 nursing students who were enrolled in GNM, B.Sc.(N), PB. BSc (N), and MSc (N) program participated in this study. Tool used in this study are as (a) demographic profile of the participating nursing students and (b) self structured Perceived academic stress scale (20 items) was used to assess the level of online perceived academic stress. Results and interpretations: Majority of participants were between the ages of 21 and 25, 81.7% were female, 360 (88.9%) were single, 272 (67.2%) were enrolled in a BSc nursing program, and 152 (37.5%) were in the first year of the program. Additionally, 329 (81.2%) participants were from private institutes, and 206 (50.9%) participants lived in urban areas and 257 (63.5%) majority of the participants from Madhya Pradesh state. Of those surveyed, majority 184 (45.4%) said they were satisfied with their home learning environment. On the other hand, 84 (20.7%) participants were satisfied with their online learning environments for meeting their academic requirements, while 265 (65.5%) people were dissatisfied with online learning environments to complete their requirements. 239 (59% of the total) reported moderate levels of stress, 88 (21.7%) reported mild levels, and 78 (19.3%) reported severe levels, with mean and standard deviation values of 135 and 73.65, respectively. There was a significant association between perceived online academic stress and the number of online classes exposed per day (c2 = 20.733, df= 6 with p = 0.002) and the duration of exposure of online classes per day (c2 =20.734, df= 6 & p= 0.002). Conclusion: This research highlights that online perceived academic stress had a significant association with students’ exposure of online classes and duration of exposure / day and academic performance in the context of the COVID-19 outbreak.
The Women’s Health and Well-being in Purvanchal, Uttar Pradesh: An analytical perspective: Women’s Health in Purvanchal, Uttar Pradesh
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-06) Pathak, P; Singh, V
The Purvanchal region of Uttar Pradesh, encompassing districts like Varanasi, Gorakhpur, and Azamgarh, presents a complex scenario for women's health due to socio-economic, cultural, and infrastructural challenges. Despite its rich cultural heritage, the region struggles with stark urban-rural disparities in healthcare access, low female literacy, and entrenched patriarchal norms that restrict women’s autonomy in health decisions. Maternal and reproductive health remains a critical concern, with high maternal mortality rates, early marriages, and limited access to contraceptives. Malnutrition and anemia are widespread, exacerbated by poverty and gender-biased food distribution. Non-communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension are rising, while mental health issues remain underreported due to stigma. Healthcare infrastructure is inadequate, with shortages of trained staff and essential facilities, particularly in rural areas. Cultural barriers, including menstrual taboos and domestic violence, further hinder health-seeking behavior. To address these challenges, a multi-pronged approach is needed, including improved healthcare access, education, economic empowerment, and community-based interventions. Strengthening government schemes, enhancing nutrition programs, and promoting gender-sensitive policies are crucial for sustainable improvements in women’s health in Purvanchal.
The Paradigm Shift in the Role of Nurses: Transforming Mother and Newborn Care through Kangaroo Mother Care – A Systematic Review
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-06) Verma, B
Background: Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) is a globally recognized, cost-effective intervention that promotes thermal regulation, breastfeeding, and bonding in low birth weight (LBW) and preterm infants. Nurses play a pivotal role in implementing and sustaining KMC practices across healthcare systems. Objective: To systematically review the literature on the evolving role of nurses in facilitating and transforming maternal and newborn care through KMC. Methods: This review was conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. A comprehensive search was performed using databases including PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL for articles published between 2010 and 2024. Search terms included “kangaroo mother care,” “nursing role,” “newborn care,” and “maternal health.” Studies were included based on relevance to KMC and the nursing profession's role in its implementation, training, and impact on health outcomes. Results: A total of 22 studies were included in this review. Findings revealed that nurses are central to KMC initiation, education, and continuity of care. Their expanded roles include policy advocacy, community outreach, caregiver training, and inter professional collaboration. Barriers include lack of training, cultural beliefs, and systemic challenges. Conclusion: Nurses are critical to the paradigm shift in neonatal and maternal care through KMC. Investment in training, institutional support, and inclusion in policy-making can enhance outcomes and scale KMC across settings.
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.
Design and Implementation of a School-Based Nutrition Literacy Program for parents of 3-10-year-old children in Low-Income Households
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-06) Moitra, P.; Kothavale, P. M.
Background: Parent-targeted nutrition literacy programs are essential for equipping parents with the knowledge and skills required to instill healthy dietary habits in children from an early age. Aim: This quasi-experimental study designed and implemented a school-based nutrition literacy program for parents of 3-10-year-old children from low-income households. Methods: Over five weeks, eight modular nutrition literacy sessions were conducted for parents (n=53, 67.9% mothers, mean age 33.5 (4.5) years) at a government school in Mumbai. The program assessed parents' nutrition literacy, purchasing behaviors, perceptions of healthy eating, and self-efficacy in planning and preparing nutritious meals. A 36-item food frequency questionnaire estimated parents’ habitual dietary patterns. Feedback interviews with parents and teachers tested program feasibility. Pre to post-intervention changes were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, and paired t-tests. Results: At baseline, knowledge regarding food groups (39.6%), nutrients (14.0%), and benefits of whole grains (48.0%), and breakfast (24.5%) was inadequate. The intervention led to improvements in knowledge and attitudes, including the value of fruits (3.0 vs 3.9, p<0.001), balanced diets (3.1 vs 3.8, p=0.006), family meals (2.9 vs 3.5, p<0.001), and self-efficacy to pack healthy lunches for children (2.6 vs 3.1, p<0.001). Parents reported greater frequency of dairy and legume (p<0.001) consumption and reduced intake of packaged snacks (p <0.001) and fast food (p=0.033). Participant feedback showed confidence in budget-friendly meal planning and support for weekend sessions at school. Conclusion: The study demonstrated the effectiveness and feasibility of a school-based nutrition literacy program in improving parental nutrition knowledge, attitudes, and dietary practices.
Extent of Hypercholesterolemia in geriatric subjects and its Nutritional Linkages: Community Based Study in Urban Prayagraj, India
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-06) Dwivedi, A; Keshari, P.
Background: The prevalence of hypercholesterolemia is steadily rising. There is a paucity of community-based study about extent and linkages of hypercholesterolemia in urban geriatric subjects. Aim: To assess prevalence and linkages of hypercholesterolemia in urban geriatric subjects. Methods: This community based cross sectional study was done on 557 urban geriatric subjects (> 60 years) of Prayagraj. Multistage sampling procedure was adopted for selection of subjects. Predesigned and pretested interview schedule was used to elicit socio-demographic information. Anthropometric measurements were done using standard techniques. Blood sample was collected for estimation of total serum cholesterol following aseptic procedure. Data analysis was done by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Chi-square test was applied for statistical significance. Logistic regression analysis was used to pinpoint linkages of hypercholesterolemia. Results: Of 552 subjects, 32.4% had hypercholesterolemia. Subjects with at risk waist circumference (43.0%), high waist hip ratio (39.5%), over weight/obese (43.2%), increased body fat% (40.9%) and visceral fat% (44.1%) had hyper-cholesterolemia (p<0.05). Conclusion: Eight out of 25 subjects had hypercholesterolemia. Hypercholesterolemia was significantly associated with waist circumference, waist hip ratio, body fat% and visceral fat%. Food habit and Body Mass Index were identified as linkages of hypercholesterolemia in subjects.
Epidemiological Patterns of Genotype Distribution among Hepatitis C Patients in India: A Narrative Review
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-06) Garg, R.; Tiwari, P
Different genotypes of Hepatitis C have different epidemiological and clinical features, showing varying prognostic implications. This review captures the genotype distribution among Hepatitis C patients in India. The most predominant Hepatitis C virus genotype in India is GT3, followed by GT1, which is also significantly prevalent. GT4 and GT6 are increasingly prevalent in southern and north-eastern parts of India, respectively. Other rare genotypes such as GT2, GT5, and GT8 have also been reported across various parts of India. Among the primary modes of HCV transmission, intravenous drug use is more common in the younger population, while haemodialysis-related transmission is more prevalent among elderly males. HCV GT3 and GT1 appear to have a strong association with the patients being infected through intravenous drug abuse and haemodialysis, respectively
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.
Exploring Menopausal Symptoms and Quality of Life (QOL) among Women in New Delhi, India
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-06) Thokchom, S; Talagathoti, DRP
Introduction: Indian women in Southeast Asia face insufficient healthcare attention regarding their postmenopausal health needs. The aim of the study to find the menopausal symptoms in women who have reached menopausal stage as it investigates the quality of life for these women during this period. Methods: Quantitative description surveys conducted with 150 women from urban settings. The study participants of age 40 to 55 years completed Menopause rating scale (MRS) which contains 11 items for assessing menopausal symptoms alongside modified Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MENQOL) 32 items for evaluating quality of life in menopausal women. Results: A majority of 58.7% participants fell within the age groups of 40-45 years during the study and 75.3% had already experienced menopause. Menopause symptoms affect 92% of women to varying degrees as they result in either moderate or severe symptoms yet a minority amount experience mild (4.7%) to very severe (3.3%) symptoms. Menopause causes some degree of quality of life interruption to almost every female individual since 99.3% encounter changes in their daily routine. Conclusion: Symptoms of menopausal women were affecting the QOL among these women.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Regarding Ethical Mapping among Medical Students in Tertiary Care Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-06) Sivasamy, S; Patel, VS; Batra, A; Batra, J.
Background: Medical ethics is an essential aspect of healthcare that plays a major role in guiding the behaviour of healthcare professionals and ensuring patient health. Medical ethics originated with the Hippocratic Oath, a lengthy document that demonstrates the importance of moral considerations in medical practice. Objectives: This study aimed to determine level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices on ethical mapping among medical students. Methodology: A cross sectional methodology was used in this study to survey both male and female medical students. A validated Likert scale survey was employed to gather quantitative data on students' views on moral dilemmas, healthcare, and fundamental norms. Data were analysed using statistical software (Stata MP17, Serial No.:501706389923). Descriptive statistics was used to summarize participant characteristics and responses to knowledge, attitude, and practice questions. Inferential statistics, including chi square tests and one-way ANOVA, were used to investigate possible correlations. Results: Males made up 45.13% and 54.87% were females. The mean age of the participants was 20.20 ± 1.581 years, with a range of 17 to 24 years. The findings demonstrated increased awareness and attitudes toward ethical issues, enabling more sensible decision making. However, the findings showed that while managing patients and making critical decisions, healthcare professionals require more than just ethical awareness. Conclusions: The study highlights the need to put ethics into practice and emphasizes how crucial it is for institutions to prioritize practical ethical training over academic knowledge.
Chronic kidney disease and its health-related factors: A case control study
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-06) Ranjith, P; Tiwari, P; Ponnachan, P; Thomas, R; Vijayan, V; Mani, S; VR, R; John, A
Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health burden, affecting 843.6 million people ( 2017). Diabetes and hypertension are prevalent risk factors linked to CKD, in areas in demographic transition, like Kerala, India. Objectives: This study examined the relationship between CKD and specific health factors, including diabetes, hypertension, hypothyroidism, urinary tract infections (UTIs), family history of kidney disease, and cardiovascular diseases. Materials and Methods: A hospital-based case-control study was conducted at Pushpagiri Medical College Hospital, Kerala, India, from October 2023 to March 2024. The study included data collected from medical records of 100 CKD cases (GFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m²) and 100 controls without CKD, analyzed using SPSS software. Results: Univariate analysis revealed significant associations between CKD and history of diabetes (?2= 15.126, p<0.01), hypertension (?2= 31.202,p<0.01), cardiovascular disease (?2= 17.195,p<0.01), and family history of kidney disease (?2= 8.791,p<0.01). Multivariate logistic regression showed that while the association between CKD and diabetes was insignificant (Odd’s Ratio (OR)=1.668, CI: 0.832-3.344, p=0.149), significant associations were observed for hypertension (OR=5.255, CI: 2.512-10.993, p<0.01), cardiovascular disease (OR=2.336, CI: 1.112-4.909, p=0.025), and family history of kidney disease (OR=7.359, CI: 1.902-28.476, p=0.004). Conclusion: The study concluded diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease and family history of kidney disease are risk factors for CKD in South Kerala, emphasizing the need for targeted public health interventions.
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.
Psychological Factors Associated with Medication Adherence and Non- adherence among Diabetic Patients
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-06) Rawat, VP; Sharma, K; Mishra, SK; Barmola, K.
The present study aimed to find the association among social support, locus of control and types of personality of diabetic patients. Total of 319 diabetic patients has been selected from Sawai Madopur District, Rajasthan using purposive sampling technique and following co-relational research design for this study. A significant relationship (?2= 29.12, p=0.01) between different levels of social support and unintentional non-adherence is observed and it can be said that social support is not independent from unintentional non-adherence among diabetic patients and there would be some impact of social support of the diabetic patient in unintentional non-adherence to the medical treatment. Also, no significant relationship (?2=0.98) between different levels of locus of control & unintentional non-adherence were seen. From this, it can be inferred that there may not have any role of LOC of the diabetic patient in unintentional non-adherence to the medical treatment. Similarly, no significant relationship (?2=3.25) between different types of personality and unintentional non-adherence is observed. Hence it is safe to infer that type of Personality is independent from unintentional non-adherence among diabetic patients and may not have any role of type of Personality of the diabetic patient in unintentional non-adherence to the medical treatment.
A Pharmacoeconomic Approach in Comparison of Cilnidipine and Metoprolol Succinate, Telmisartan and Hydrochlorothiazide in the Treatment of Hypertensive Patients by application of Cost-Effective Analysis
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-06) Jagadeesh, K; Satheesh, G; Vageesh, NM; Naveen, Y
Objective: A study was conducted to evaluate and compare the cost-effectiveness of telmisartan and hydrochlorothiazide compared with cilnidipine and metoprolol in reducing blood pressure by one mm of Hg per day in hypertensive patients. Materials and Methods: It was a prospective experimental analysis of cost-effectiveness, to compare the cost of telmisartan (40 mg), hydrochlorothiazide (12.5mg) and cilnidipine (10 mg) and metoprolol (50 mg) in hypertensive cases using either of the medicines. An aggregate of 98 cases recently detected hypertensive cases were considered for the comparison, of which 49 cases were specified telmisartan, hydrochlorothiazide and the other 49 were specified cilidipine, metoprolol as per the recommended dosage. Data were analyzed using paired and unmatched T-tests in MS- Excel soft earthenware. Results: The cost of reducing 1mm of Hg blood pressure per day with telmisartan, hydrochlorothiazide was 0.21(SBP), 0.31 (DBP) INR, whereas that of cilidipine, metoprolol was 0.23 (SBP), 0.28 (DBP) INR. Conclusion: This pharmaco-economic analysis shows that Telmisartan, Hydrochlorothiazide is further cost-effective as compared to Cilnidipine, Metoprolol succinate when the cost per reduction in blood pressure per day is considered. This may affect the cases economically during their long-term use of these motes for the hypertension
Bayesian analysis of multidrug resistance tuberculosis from Amravati Region using non-informative priors
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-03) Ahemed, S. F.; Singh, R.; Singh, P.
This study is an attempt to fit a binary logistic model on the data of TB- patients registered under DOTS from Amravati region, with the aim to determine predictors (risk factors) of MDR-TB, under Bayesian framework. Drug resistant tuberculosis is a serious public health problem in India and worldwide. Detection and treatment of MDR?TB is a priority in National Tuberculosis program in India. Bayesian approach with Non-informative prior is employed for data analysis in this study. MDR-TB presence is taken as the response variable in this study, with 18 explanatory variables related to clinical and treatment details of present and past history of the patients. Odds ratios for the Bayesian estimates of parameters are calculated using Gibbs Sampling procedure. It is found in the study that probability of developing MDR-Tb increases with increase in the number of previous TB treatment. Out of 18, eight variables are found to be potentially effective in the development of MDR-TB among TB patients.
Formulation and Validation of tool to assess the exposure of occupational health hazards
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-03) Adithiyalakshmi, S.; Sivakami, P. S.
Background: Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) risk assessment is critical for improving worker safety by identifying and controlling high-risk hazards in the workplace. Objectives: This study developed and validated a tool specifically designed to assess occupational health hazards among fishermen, Methodology: involving three key steps: conceptualization, expert judgment and content validity determination. Structured with four domains: physical, ergonomic, environmental and psychological. Results: A pilot study with 50 fishermen yielded a Cronbach?s alpha of 0.710, indicating acceptable internal consistency. The tool?s content validity was confirmed by fifteen subject experts, with an overall Content Validity Ratio (CVR) above the acceptable threshold of 0.49. Each domain demonstrated high relevance, achieving an itemLevel- Content Validity Index (I-CVI) of 0.95, kappa value of zero, one and an overall Scale - Content Validity Index (S-CVI) of 0.93, underscoring its robustness. Four components were identified through principle component analysis with keiser normalization of 0.653. The cumulation variance of 76 percent provides suitability of retention. Conclusion: This tool effectively represents key elements of occupational health hazards for fishermen and can be complemented with additional questionnaires for comprehensive data collection in the fishing sector.
Nutritional Disparities among Adolescent Girls Belonging to the Tribal Localities of Gujarat
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-03) Tiwari, D.; Nair, S
Background: Adolescence is marked by the onset of the second growth spurt, a phase of rapid growth and development that places high demands on nutritional intake. Poor nutritional status among adolescent girls is a major public health issue in India, with the situation being even more critical in tribal areas. This study was conducted in the tribal region of the western state of Gujarat, aiming to identify the factors contributing to the poor nutritional status of adolescent girls. Methods: Simple random sampling technique was used to enroll subjects. Adolescent aged between 16-18 years (N=120) were enrolled for the study. Anthropometric measurements (Height, Weight and Mid Upper Arm Circumference), dietary history (24 hr recall, Minimum dietary diversity-Women) and blood haemoglobin was measured. Results: The mean BMI-for-Age (BAZ) score was -1.09±1.07, with approximately 22 (18.3%) of the subjects being classified as thin. The mean height for age (HAZ) score was -1.22 ± 0.85, and about 18 (15%) of the subjects were found to be stunted. Approximately 80 (66.66%) of the subjects were moderately anaemic, 18 (15%) were mildly anaemic and 7 (5.8%) were severely anaemic. The median nutrient intake among the adolescents was found to be significantly low compared to the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) at (p<0.001). The Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD-W) score of the adolescent girls was 4.25 ± 0.57. Conclusion: Nutritional status of the adolescent girls was in compromised conditions. Some of the underlying reasons were; Preference and consumption of fat rich foods, skipping of breakfast, poor IFA and Deworming rate and poor personal hygiene etc.
Indomethacin: A multifaceted therapeutic agent with potential applications
(Department of Community Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India., 2025-03) Prabhat, Jagriti; Bashar, M. A.
Background: Indomethacin, a well-established non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), exhibits remarkable therapeutic versatility across diverse medical applications. While traditionally recognized for its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, recent studies underscore its potential in oncology, virology, neurology, and cardiovascular health. Its primary mechanism involves cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibition, reducing prostaglandin synthesis, and modulating immune responses. Beyond this, non-COX-mediated effects, such as autophagy regulation and mitochondrial modulation, expand its therapeutic scope. Objective: This study aims to explore the broad therapeutic potential of indomethacin beyond its conventional use as an anti-inflammatory agent, focusing on its applications in oncology, virology, neurology, and other medical fields. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive review of preclinical and clinical studies was conducted to evaluate the mechanisms, therapeutic benefits, and limitations of indomethacin. Research findings on its role in cancer therapy, viral infections, neuroprotection, and inflammatory disorders were analyzed, along with advancements in drug formulations to mitigate adverse effects. Results: Preclinical studies demonstrate that Indomethacin restores apoptotic pathways by targeting anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins, enhancing the efficacy of immuno-therapies and chemotherapies in breast, colon, and prostate cancers. In vitro and clinical studies reveal its dual antiviral action against SARS-CoV-2, canine coronavirus, and rotavirus, achieved by inhibiting viral replication and suppressing cytokine storms. Clinical evidence highlights its ability to lower intracranial pressure (ICP) in traumatic brain injury (TBI) and manage refractory migraines. Additionally, animal models suggest neuroprotective effects in Alzheimer’s disease, including reduced amyloid-beta plaque formation. Furthermore, experimental studies validate its potential to mitigate inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, while clinical trials in neonatology confirm its efficacy in reducing intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) severity. Conclusion: Despite its broad therapeutic utility, indomethacin’s gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity remains a limitation. Advancements in drug formulations, including phospholipid conjugates (e.g., DP-155), hydrogen sulfide-based derivatives, and nano-particles, have shown promise in reducing adverse effects. Future research directions include large-scale clinical trials to validate its efficacy in under explored therapeutic domains, mechanistic studies on non-COX pathways, and innovative combination therapies. Indomethacin exemplifies the potential of repurposed drugs to address complex medical challenges. By leveraging its restorative, synergistic, and multitargeted effects, alongside innovative delivery strategies, indomethacin can continue to play a transformative role in modern medicine.

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