Indian Journal of Community Health

Permanent URI for this collection

https://imsear.searo.who.int/handle/123456789/149599

Editor: Dr Pradeep Aggarwal

ISSN: 0971-7587; (Print)

Frequency: 4 issues a year

Language: English

An Official Publication of Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine Uttar Pradesh & Uttarakhand Chapter

Open Access Peer-reviewed journal

Web site: https://www.iapsmupuk.org/journal/index.php/IJCH/index

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Now showing 1 - 20 of 461

Development of an Android-friendly E-video to raise awareness of E-waste management as part of the Swachch Bharat Mission in Pali District, Rajasthan
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Sinha, LN; Sharma, K; Choudhary, Y; Purohit, L; Dube, S; Choudhary, S
Background: Electronic/Electrical products, which are of no use anymore, are referred to as electronic waste. Electronic waste causes contamination of the environment with heavy metals during the process of informal dismantling. Initiatives such as Extended Producer Responsibility and Design for Environment, together with the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle), were suggested by the Swachch Bharat Mission (SBM2.0). The purpose of this study was to evaluate urban dwellers' knowledge and practices around e-waste and raise awareness through an e-video created by Phase III MBBS students. Objectives: 1. To estimate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices on E-waste management in PALI urban. 2. To increase awareness and assess satisfaction levels among the residents regarding prepared E video. Methods: 384 residents of the UHTC's catchment region participated in an analytical cross-sectional study using the purposive sampling technique. They were interviewed using a semi-structured pre-validated questionnaire on e-waste-related knowledge and practice parameters and were shown a video on recommended disposal practices. Data was analyzed using Epi info 7.2 using appropriate tests of significance. Results: Among respondents, 95% had heard of E-waste from media. Domestic e-waste generated was kept at home (3.5%), given to the kabari wala/scrap collector (73%), exchanged at electronic shops (4.2%), or thrown in dustbins (3.5%). Some knew of companies willing to collect their e-waste (16%) but only 6% utilized that service and 4 % knew what was finally done with it. Younger ages <27 years and Higher levels of education were found to be statistically significant with respect to better knowledge and practices (p-value <0.05). The e-video increased knowledge of respondents by 68% and 83% were satisfied by its content. Conclusions: No streamlined system of disposal, collection, or dismantling of e-waste existed in the town and the video on recommended practices was well received. Increased awareness of E-Waste Tax Credits for Manufacturers, E-waste ATMs for encouraging recycling, and E-waste tracking and certification are feasible solutions.
Assessment of Role of Communication Competence in Dental Students for Acquiring Social Support
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Deshmukh, NP; Pawshekar, MA; Paul, P.
Background: Effective primary care provision requires strong social support, which may be enhanced by communication competence. The study proposes to examine the magnitude of perceived social support and communication competence and the role of communication competence in garnering perceived social support. Aim and objectives: To assess communication competence of dental students and the degree of social support they receive. Methodology: The cross-sectional study was conducted at Sharad Pawar Dental College, Wardha. Study population comprised 400 students pursuing their Bachelor’s degree (BDS). Perceived social support was measured using a Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. The communication competence was assessed by the Self-perceived Communication Competence Scale. Results: Communication competence was the only determinant of perceived social support. For every unit increase in communication competence, the perceived social support increased by 0.018 units. The increase was statistically significant. The model explained 13% variance in the perceived social support, which was statistically significant. Conclusion: Social support is crucial for self-esteem, which is moderated by communication competence. This facilitates leadership efficiency and ultimately serves in the making of a five-star doctor. The present study supports the abovementioned findings and underlines the need to work more on building graduate students’ communication competence through foundation courses.
Assessing District Hospital Preparedness During a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC): Development of a Comprehensive Checklist in the Indian Context
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Kumar, P; Kaur, A
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed critical weaknesses in healthcare systems, particularly in low- and middle-income countries such as India. In Delhi, district hospitals faced severe challenges during successive waves, including inadequate infrastructure, staffing, and poor emergency coordination. These shortcomings underscore the need for a standardized, context-specific tool to assess and improve hospital preparedness for future Public Health Emergencies. Material & Methods: A preparedness checklist was developed using a mixed-methods approach. The initial draft was developed through a literature review of global and national frameworks, followed by expert consultations with public health specialists, physicians, administrators, and infectious disease experts. Feedback was incorporated through structured consensus-building exercises, ensuring contextual relevance and technical rigor. Results: The resulting checklist encompasses six core domains: (1) Infrastructure, Equipment and Supplies, (2) Health Worker Safety, (3) Patient Care, (4) Biomedical Waste Management and Disinfection, (5) Health Information, Outreach and Communication, and (6) Monitoring and Reporting. Each domain includes actionable items with standardized response formats for scoring and gap identification. Conclusion: This checklist provides a comprehensive, adaptable framework aligned with WHO health emergency standards. It supports institutional learning, staff preparedness, and policy planning. Field validation is needed, but it presents a practical solution for enhancing hospital readiness in future health emergencies.
Influence of Social Support on Treatment Adherence and Self-care among Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in Field Practice Areas of a Tertiary Medical College in Bangalore- A Cross-sectional Study
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) G, Hegde V; S, S; Mukhopadhyay, A; Debata, I; Sagar, Panda P; R, Bhagavati V
Background: As a chronic illness, type 2 diabetes necessitates regular self-care. In this context, the social assistance provided is crucial. Aim and Objective: To evaluate the levels of social support in type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) patients and to identify the influence of social support on treatment adherence and self-care activities. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 T2DM patients in the medical college's field practice areas. Data regarding the sociodemographic details, clinical and treatment history, social support level (Social Support Rating Scale), and management of self-care activities (Summary of Diabetes Self-care activities) were collected. Compiled data was analyzed using IBM SPSS software. Data was interpreted as frequencies, percentages, and means. Association was tested using the Chi-square test and Spearman’s correlation. A p-value less than 0.05 was deemed significant. Results: There were 53% females and 47% males. Most participants (83.25%) had a moderate level of social support. Medication adherence and blood glucose monitoring were the most practiced self-care practices. Support level was significantly associated with activities of self-care (proper dietary practice, regular physical activity, and foot hygiene). Conclusion: More than two-thirds of the patients had a moderate to high social support level, which significantly correlated with self-care activities.
Assessment of Knowledge and Attitude regarding Hepatitis B infection and its prevention among medical undergraduate students of a medical college of Western Uttar Pradesh
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Negi, R; Agarwal, R; Virmani, I.
Background: Compared to the general population, healthcare workers (including medical students) have a greater chance of developing a hepatitis B infection. There has often been a lack of awareness and observance of precautionary measures among the students. Aim & Objectives: To assess knowledge, attitude & awareness of hepatitis B infection and preventive strategies among medical students. Methodology: This cross sectional study was conducted for 6 months, enrolled all medical undergraduate students from all the batches studying at a medical college in Agra. A questionnaire-based proforma was filled out by each participant. Results: Mean age (SD) of participants was 22 ± 0.92 years with 53% female participants. Mean knowledge score among the participants was 10.6 ±2.19 and mean attitude score was 26.4±2.24. Knowledge score was significantly associated with age, sex, professional year (p value 0.000), religion (p value 0.021). Attitude was significantly associated with age (p value 0.048), sex, permanent residence (p value 0.002), socioeconomic class, knowledge (p value 0.000). Conclusion: There is need to improve knowledge regarding hepatitis infection from the very beginning itself to ensure proper attitude and hopefully better preventive practices among the students those will become future doctors in coming time.
Exploring Quality of Life and Caregiver Burden in Palliative care
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Srivastava, K; Rathod, H; Bhawalkar, JS; Vishwakarma, KS; R, A
Background: The increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases in India has led to a growing need for palliative care. This study aimed to explore and analyse the factors contributing to the quality of life and burden experienced by caregivers of palliative patients in a metropolitan setting. Methodology: A qualitative phenomenological approach was employed, grounded in the interpretivist paradigm. Seven in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with primary caregivers of palliative patients at a tertiary care hospital and Palliative Care Hospital. Purposive sampling was used, and data saturation determined the sample size. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and translated. Data analysis followed a hybrid approach, combining inductive and deductive methods. Results: Seven major themes emerged from the analysis. Caregivers reported significant deterioration in their quality of life, disruption of daily routines, and emotional distress. They faced challenges including physical and mental exhaustion, lack of respite, and financial constraints. Coping mechanisms included seeking emotional support and spiritual practices. Despite hardships, caregivers found satisfaction in witnessing improvements in their loved ones' conditions. They expressed concerns about future care arrangements and suggested better communication with healthcare professionals and respite opportunities. Conclusion: The study revealed that caregiving for palliative patients significantly impacts caregivers' quality of life and emotional well-being. While caregivers experience multiple challenges, they also find satisfaction in their role. To improve the caregiving experience, healthcare systems should focus on enhancing communication between healthcare professionals and patients, and providing respite options for caregivers. These findings can inform strategies to support caregivers and improve palliative care services in metropolitan settings.
Knowledge and Attitude Toward Breast Self-Examination Among Medical Students
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Maheshwari, S; Awasthi, AA; Sinha, R; Vora, V; Agarwal, P; Kaur, G
Background: Breast Self-Examination (BSE) is a fundamental method for the early detection of breast cancer. Despite its importance, awareness and practice of BSE among medical students—a key segment of the future healthcare workforce—remain inadequate. Aim & Objective: The study aimed to determine the prevalence of BSE knowledge, identify misconceptions, and evaluate the students’ willingness to discuss and promote BSE. Material and Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted among medical students. Data was collected using a questionnaire with sections on demographic information, BSE knowledge, and attitudes toward BSE. Results: The study found that 42.7% of students were not taught how to perform BSE, and 35% received information about BSE from their teachers. Knowledge of BSE was limited, with many students holding misconceptions about the frequency and timing of the examination. Approximately 89.1% of students indicated they would seek medical attention if they found an abnormality, though 0.9% reported doing nothing in response to abnormal findings. A significant portion (77.7%) expressed a willingness to discuss BSE with peers. Conclusions: The study highlights critical gaps in BSE knowledge and practice among medical students, revealing a need for enhanced educational programs. Addressing misconceptions and improving education on BSE are essential for equipping future healthcare professionals with the necessary skills to advocate for early breast cancer detection.
Poor glycemic control and associated factors among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus patients at a Tertiary Health Care facility
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Kumari, R; Singh, N; Karoli, R; Kandpal, SD; Singh, S; Ansari, A; Singh, C; Usmani, S; Singh, KA
Background: Poor glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients is a major concern, as it can lead to serious complications. Understanding the factors contributing to poor glycemic control is essential for developing interventions to improve diabetes management and patient outcomes. Aim and Objective: This study aims to identify the factors associated with poor glycemic control among T2DM patients attending a tertiary health care facility. Setting and Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Medicine Outpatient Department (OPD) of a tertiary care hospital. The study included 179 T2DM patients, selected using systematic random sampling. Material & Methods : Data were collected on socio-demographic characteristics, dietary habits, physical activity, medication adherence, and clinical parameters, including HbA1c levels. The study evaluated how these factors influenced glycemic control among the participants. Result: Factors such as lower educational attainment, non-vegetarian diet, high fasting and postprandial blood sugar levels, and elevated BMI were associated with poor glycemic control. Multivariate analysis revealed that a non-vegetarian diet (aOR: 2.35), random blood sugar >140 mg/dl (aOR: 3.91), postprandial blood sugar >140 mg/dl (aOR: 5.13), and education up to junior school level (aOR: 7.04) were independently linked to poor glycemic control. Conclusion: Addressing these factors through targeted interventions, such as educational programs and dietary adjustments, is essential for improving glycemic control and overall patient outcomes.
A Cross-Sectional Study Among Stroke Survivors of the Indian Himalayan Region Assessing Motor Function, Quality of Life, Depression, and Anxiety
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Suman; Yadav, RK; Bhadoria, AS; Das, H; Neyaz, O.
Stroke impacts 16 million people annually worldwide, often resulting in lasting disabilities and psychological complications such as depression and anxiety, affecting the quality of life. This study assessed the motor function, depression, anxiety, and quality of life among stroke survivors in the Indian Himalayan region, with their sociodemographic profile. 164 stroke patients were examined at a tertiary teaching hospital. The sample was predominantly male (70%), with an average age of 50.61 years. Motor Assessment Scale scores indicated poor motor function (mean = 12.05), while Stroke-Specific Quality of Life Scale scores revealed low quality of life (mean = 91.71). On Beck Depression Inventory and Beck Anxiety Inventory, 36% of participants had severe depression while, 20.7% had moderate anxiety levels. As the study indicated a high prevalence of severe depression and anxiety, affecting also the motor functions and quality of life, addressing the psychological issues is critical for improving rehabilitation outcomes and overall well-being among stroke survivors.
Patient and Health System Delay among New Pulmonary TB patients: A cross-sectional study in Eastern India
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Routray, SP; Nayak, SR; Debata, I; Panda, PS
Introduction: The burden of TB is increased by delays in diagnosis and treatment, which are frequently brought on by inefficiencies in the patient and health system. Reducing mortality and transmission rates requires early detection and treatment. Objectives: This study aimed to estimate patient and health system delays among new pulmonary TB patients in Khordha district, Odisha. Methodology: A community-based, cross-sectional study was conducted among 420 pulmonary TB patients registered under the NTEP between June 2022 and July 2024. Multistage cluster sampling was used to select participants. Data on delays were collected using a semi-structured, pre-validated questionnaire. Statistical analysis, including chi-square tests, was performed using SPSS version 21. Results: 50.47% of patients experienced diagnostic delays longer than 15 days, and 8.8% of patients experienced delays longer than 14 days. 6.19% experienced treatment delays longer than seven days. Long-term delays were substantially correlated with factors like self-medication, trips to traditional healers, female gender, and age >30 years. Conclusion: Due to delays caused by systemic and sociodemographic factors, timely TB diagnosis and treatment are still difficult to achieve. Effective TB control requires addressing these through focused awareness efforts, early referrals, and reducing inefficiencies in the health system.
Technology-Driven Approaches to Tackle the Antimicrobial Resistance: A Scoping review
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Jasani, K; Joshi, K; Karthikeyan, V; Aggarwal, P; Saini, N.
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is an escalating global health threat that demands novel and strategic interventions to curb its progression. This review examines how technology-based interventions can help tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR) within community settings Focused interventions include mobile apps for antibiotic education, telemedicine platforms for monitoring antibiotic use, artificial intelligence (AI) applications for AMR awareness, and the development of low-cost diagnostic kits to ensure rational drug use. These technologies promise to empower communities, improve healthcare delivery, and mitigate the misuse of antibiotics.
Study to assess psychological distress among undergraduate Medical and Engineering students of Delhi
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Imaan, F; Rasania, SK; Imaan, Z; Kushwaha, S.
Background: Undergraduate students, especially those in medical and engineering fields, face significant academic pressures coupled with other stressors which makes them susceptible to mental distress, including anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. Objective: To assess and compare mental distress among undergraduate medical and engineering students and factors affecting it. Materials and Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 students (150 each from medical and engineering colleges of Delhi, India. Data was collected using a structured online questionnaire, which included demographic details and the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) to assess mental distress. Results: We observed that 61.3% of participants were likely to have some sort of stress disorder, with higher prevalence in medical students (62.7%) than in engineering students (60%). Longer sleep latency was significantly associated with moderate to severe stress disorders (p < 0.001). Association of gender with mental distress was also found to be significant (p value= 0.022). Conclusions: Medical students were more prone to severe stress disorders compared to engineering students. Prolonged sleep latency was a strong predictor of psychological distress. Early intervention and mental health support are essential for improving student well-being.
Mental Health among Health Care Providers due to Workplace Violence
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Patel, S; Mishra, A; Maiti, A; Sharma, A; Nayan, A; Dhakar, JS
Background: Undergraduate students, especially those in medical and engineering fields, face significant academic pressures coupled with other stressors which makes them susceptible to mental distress, including anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. Objective: To assess and compare mental distress among undergraduate medical and engineering students and factors affecting it. Materials and Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 students (150 each from medical and engineering colleges of Delhi, India. Data was collected using a structured online questionnaire, which included demographic details and the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) to assess mental distress. Results: We observed that 61.3% of participants were likely to have some sort of stress disorder, with higher prevalence in medical students (62.7%) than in engineering students (60%). Longer sleep latency was significantly associated with moderate to severe stress disorders (p < 0.001). Association of gender with mental distress was also found to be significant (p value= 0.022). Conclusions: Medical students were more prone to severe stress disorders compared to engineering students. Prolonged sleep latency was a strong predictor of psychological distress. Early intervention and mental health support are essential for improving student well-being.
Machine Learning Models for the Development of a Probabilistic Screening Tool for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Narni, H; Ananthasetty, VR; Jilani, S; Sailaja, PS.
Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age that can lead to infertility and other long-term health problems. Early detection using simple, non-invasive tools is important to support timely intervention and improve outcomes. Objective: The study aimed to compare the performance of decision tree and naive Bayes models in predicting the likelihood of PCOS using non-invasive clinical features. Methodology: The study included 100 diagnosed cases of PCOS and 100 controls based on ultrasonographic findings. Clinical and lifestyle information was collected through a structured questionnaire. The models were evaluated using accuracy, precision, recall, F1 score, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. Five-fold cross-validation was used for validation. Results The decision tree model had high training accuracy but lower test accuracy, indicating overfitting. The naive Bayes model showed more consistent performance with 81 percent test accuracy and an F1 score of 0.81. Conclusion: The naive Bayes model shows promise as a simple, non-invasive screening tool for early identification of PCOS, particularly in primary care and low-resource settings.
Knowledge and awareness on Hepatitis B and C Infection among antenatal women attending a government hospital in Delhi: A Cross-sectional study
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Singh, S; Kumar, R; TP, SR
Background: Pregnant women with chronic Hepatitis B and positive Hepatitis B virus E antigen (HBeAg) have a 90% likelihood of transmitting the hepatitis B virus to their newborns. Vertical transmission is the leading cause of HCV infection in children. Hepatitis B and C lead to chronic disease and are the most common cause of liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and viral hepatitis-related deaths. A major challenge to eliminating viral Hepatitis can be a lack of awareness regarding infection. Aims & Objective: To study the level of knowledge and awareness on Hepatitis B and C infection among antenatal women attending a government hospital in Delhi. Methodology: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted in Delhi amongst 422 antenatal women. Participants were interviewed using a semi-structured interview schedule. To assess knowledge a composite variable of knowledge score was generated, and the cut-off score of 7/14 was kept. Results: Among the interviewed pregnant women, only 47(11.1%) were aware of either Hepatitis B or both Hepatitis B and C, and among these, only 19.1% had adequate knowledge. Conclusion: Pregnant women showed a low level of awareness, indicating a pressing need for education and awareness campaigns.
Determinants of cognitive impairment in elderly population residing in Agra, Uttar Pradesh
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Upadhyay, KL; Agrawal, R; Geetu, Singh
Background: Cognitive impairment is a major global health issue, particularly affecting the elderly and challenging healthcare systems. Aims and Objective: To assess the determinants of cognitive impairment among elderly people of Agra city. Methods and material: Present cross sectional study was carried out among 144 participants residing in Agra city using pretested, predesigned semi structured questionnaire with MMSE. Result: In this study 54.2% were males and 45.8 % females. 78.5 % were Hindus and 12.5% were Muslims, 56.3% participants were married and 42.4% were either widowed or divorced, 24% particiants had higher education, 42.4% school education, 33.3% illitrate. Pevalence of cognitive impairment in elderly was 61.8% that was significantly associated with female gender and lower socioeconomic status. Conclusion: This study elucidated that cognitive impairment in elderly was significantly higher in female gender and lower socioeconomic status participants.
Designing a blueprint for Theoretical assessment of community medicine phase III Indian Medical Graduates
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Yadav, A; Kaur, S; Barman, SK; Sonam
Introduction: A blueprint serves as a high-quality, standardized document that encapsulates all instructional resources and the outcomes they have produced. It ensures that every aspect of the curriculum and its instructional domains is thoroughly addressed during the review process. Objective: To create blueprints for the undergraduate community medicine exam curriculum. Material & Method: The distribution of various question types (MCQ, SAQ, and LAQ) and cognitive domain levels (recall, understanding, and application) is proportionally allocated. The impact point (I) ranges from 1 to 3, and the frequency score also ranges from 1 to 3. The weightage coefficient (W) is calculated using the formula I × F / T. Result: The total of all I × F for Paper I amounts to 44, while for Paper II, it totals 43. Blueprints for Community Medicine Paper I and Paper II are each worth 100 marks. Conclusion: Our study's findings indicate that the topics "Principles of Health Promotion and Education," "Occupational Health," "Epidemiology of Communicable Diseases," "Demography and Vital Statistics," and "Health Care of the Community" collectively represent more than half of the total weightage.
Knowledge, Awareness, and Perception of Dentists towards implant preference
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Mariam, S; Halli, RS; Khalique, N.
Background: There is a dearth of evidence from the providers (dentists’) perspective, their attitudes, cognitive knowledge toward implant treatment and maintenance. This can impact the treatment objectives. Miniscule studies have investigated the qualitative and quantitative analysis of population of dentists’ in shifting from crown and bridge practice to dental implant therapy and oral hygiene related to dental implants. Aims & objectives: To evaluate knowledge, perception and awareness of dentists’ in shifting from crown and bridge practice to dental implant therapy in Pune city. Methodology: A self-administered validated 24- item questionnaire, was administered among general, academic and non-academic practitioners. Descriptive analysis was done. Results: Dental implants are the treatment of choice (55.6%) over crown and bridge. Majority of participants had an overall better knowledge regarding practice of implant-based dentistry over crown and bridge but not regarding periimplantitis. Conclusion: Our study showed that dental practitioners in Pune possess good knowledge of dental implant as a therapeutic option. However knowledge about parameters for assessing oral hygiene around implants was inadequate.
Coping with life during COVID-19: Modification in Mode of existence among health care workers of tertiary care hospital of Central Uttar Pradesh
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Shukla, SK; Bajpai, PK; Kaushik, A; Kumar, S; Chauhan, M; Verma, S; Pathak, P
Introduction: As an emerging crisis, COVID-19 has impacted the lives of healthcare workers (HCWs) to a greater extent. As HCWs are carrying the heavy burden of treating patients, controlling the spread, and directly facing all the consequences, their lives have been jeopardized due to long shifts, fear of getting hands-on COVID-19 infection, and lack of time on one’s own to keep their individuality. Aim and objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of changes in the mode of existence on healthcare workers employed at a tertiary care rural facility in Central Uttar Pradesh, India, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted within one month of duration. The study included all the medical professionals in a tertiary care hospital of mid-Uttar Pradesh. Results: Most HCWs indulged in physical activities 90(86.5%) compared to during the COVID-19 pandemic 71(68.3%). Of the participants, 50(48.1%) felt anxious during the COVID-19 pandemic, while before the pandemic, it was only among 20(19.2%0) HCWs. Before the COVID-19 outbreak, most healthcare workers (HCWs) did not utilize face masks, with just 3.8% adhering to this practice. However, in light of the pandemic, the percentage of HCWs wearing face masks significantly rose to 64.4%. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, only a few HCWs were using the method of personal hygiene, 16(15.4%), 04(3.8%), 26(25.0%), and 12(11.5%), frequent handwashing, use of alcohol-based hand rub, frequent cleaning of places, and all methods of personal hygiene, respectively. Conclusion: From decreasing physical activities, increasing addictive behaviors and anxiety, and acclimatization in the new work environment to a daily lifestyle, collectively, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected HCW's existence considerably.
Exploring the Relationship Between Perceived Stress and Menstrual Health in Undergraduates Across Different Academic Disciplines
(MRI Publication Pvt. Ltd., 2025-04) Tomar, A; Deepshikha; Das, SC; Juyal, R; Kaur, G; Jain, R.
Background: Menstrual disorders are associated with high stress in females. The current study was carried out to assess the extent of perceived stress and its impact on the menstrual health among female students enrolled in various undergraduate courses, both medical and non-medical. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, with the objective to find out the association of stress with menstruation health problems. Around 300 participants were selected, from MBBS, Nursing, and Paramedical/Engineering/Management. Two scales PSS-14 and GHQ-12 were used to detect emotional disturbances and level of stress. Results: The mean Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) score was 26.24 ± 6.411, with a minimum score of 11 and a maximum score of 47 among the study subjects. Maximum perceived stress was observed among nursing students, followed by students in other courses. The prevalence of Menstruation Disorders was recorded at 69.3% with the highest proportions observed among nurses. Among participants experiencing menstrual health problems, 31 (14.9%) reported no stress, while 177(85.1%) reported high stress levels. The results indicate a significant association between menstrual health problems and stress levels (?² = 4.405, p = 0.04). Conclusion: Early evaluation of stress among students will help reduce psychiatric morbidity and can also improve their academic performances.

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