Healthline Journal of Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine, Gujarat Chapter

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https://imsear.searo.who.int/handle/123456789/151627

Editor-in-Chief: Dr. Girija Kartha
ISSN: 2229-337X (Print), 2320-1525 (Online)

Frequency: Half yearly

Language: English

Open Access Peer-reviewed journal

Web site: https://iapsmgc.org/index.php

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Dyslipidemia and Hypertension Among Type 2 Diabetics at a Tertiary Care Hospital of South Gujarat, India
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-06) Kotak, J; Tandel, K; Kotak, M; Sharma, D.
Introduction: The number of diabetes cases are rising globally along with comorbidities like hypertension and dyslipidemia. Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of dyslipidemia and hypertension in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients of Valsad, Gujarat, India. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study of total 62 blood samples of T2DM patients selected by convenience sampling which analysed fasting blood sugar (FBS), postprandial blood sugar (PP2BS), cholesterol, triglyceride (TG) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) using standard methods at a tertiary care hospital of Valsad. Low density lipoprotein (LDL) and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) were also estimated using Martin-Hopkins and Friedewald equations respectively. Results: In study participants, 11.29% had neither hypertension (HTN) nor dyslipidemia, 64.52% had HTN, 77.42% had dyslipidemia and 53.22% patients had HTN and dyslipidemia along with diabetes. Conclusion: Results suggest a high prevalence of dyslipidemia and HTN in study subjects. Early screening and administration of lipid-lowering agents are required in these patients.
Prevalence and Factors Affecting Mental Health among Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study in Rural South Karnataka
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-06) KA, S; PS, K.
Introduction: Ageing is a lifelong process of growing up and growing old. It begins at conception and ends with death. It is important to take into account the various physical and mental health issues that older adults experience. Objective: To determine the prevalence and factors affecting mental health among older adults. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between January to June 2022 in the rural field practice area of tertiary care hospital in South Karnataka. Complete Enumeration method was used, total of 780 participant were interviewed using a semi-structured proforma. Mental health was assessed using General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12) which is a a short, self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were calculated using the mean, standard deviation, and proportion. To assess the relationship between risk factors, the chi square test was employed. Results: Using the GHQ-12 scoring, 50.4% of the older adults had mild distress & 18.6% of the older adults had severe distress. The factors affecting mental health were increase in age (p value<0.001), females (p value<0.01), poor occupational status (p value<0.001), poor socioeconomic status (p value<0.05), locomotor disability (p value<0.001) & those who suffered physical/mental abuse (p value<0.001). Conclusion: The mental health of older adults is at stake. It was observed that stress was seen with increasing age, females, unemployment, lower socioeconomic status, broken family, hypertension, lack of social support, disability, and abuse.
Association Between Prior Tuberculosis History and Treatment Outcomes in Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis Patients Receiving Bedaquiline-Based Therapy: Prospective Observational Study from Western India
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-06) Sakaria, R; Modi, B; MS, A; Koria, B; Vithalani, K.
Introduction: Drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) poses a significant public health challenge in India. While treatment success in DR-TB cases remains limited, bedaquiline-based oral longer regimens have shown promising results in select studies. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate whether a patient’s prior TB status influences treatment outcomes under a bedaquiline-based regimen and to assess other previous TB-related variables affecting current DR-TB outcomes. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care center in Rajkot, Gujarat, between April 2023 and September 2024. Fifty DR-TB patients on bedaquiline-based oral longer regimens were selected using purposive sampling. Data on previous TB treatment, clinical and demographic variables were collected. Treatment outcomes were categorized as cured, treatment completed, defaulted, died, or failed. Statistical analysis using Chi-square and Cramer’s V was conducted to assess associations. Results: Of the 50 patients, 74% were underweight and from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, and 58% were female. Patients with a history of cured drug-sensitive TB (DSTB) demonstrated the highest favourable outcomes, with 70% showing success, and 55% achieving cure. In contrast, those with prior treatment failure or no TB history had poorer outcomes. However, the association between prior TB status and current DR-TB outcomes was not statistically significant (Chi-square = 20.99, p > 0.05; Cramer’s V = 0.3), indicating a weak correlation. Conclusion: Although cured DSTB history appears to improve outcomes, previous TB status alone does not significantly predict DR-TB treatment success. A comprehensive approach addressing adherence, resistance, comorbidities, nutrition, and social factors is crucial for better outcomes.
Family Caregivers’ Perspective for Cancer Care in a Tertiary Care Centre of Assam
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-06) Devi, SM; Mahanta, TG.
Introduction: Family caregivers (FC) of patients with cancer has to undergo a lot of difficulties while taking care of the patients especially during advanced stage and often face burnout. Objective: To assess cancer patient’s caregivers’ perspective in a tertiary care centre of Dibrugarh, Assam. Methods: A Cross-sectional mixed method study was done among. Sample size was 180. Patients with cancer and their primary caregivers in a Tertiary Cancer Centre of Assam were enrolled between May-November 2024. Pretested and predesigned questionnaire was used to collect data from caregivers of cancer patients. Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI) format was used for assessing burden of caregivers. In depth interview of 20 caregivers (till saturation level) was done and the data collected was used for qualitative study. Analysis was done using SPSS 25 and Atlas TI. Result: A total of 155 participated in the study. Mean age of the caregivers was 42.26 ± 11.84 years and mean Zarit Burden score of caregivers was 36.44±9.65. Majority (103, 67%) caregivers reported mild-to-moderate burden, while 41 caregivers (26%) reported moderate-to-severe burden. Financial constrain, lack of social and emotional support, communication challenges emerged as major themes in qualitative study. Conclusion: Financial and emotional strain, dependency, anxiety and stress need to be addressed with holistic implementation of community-based interventions such as different welfare scheme, strengthened support system and communication interventions.
Burden of Oral Precancerous Lesions and Associated Factors among Truck Drivers in Kolkata, West Bengal
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-06) Hussain, MMA; Jaiswal, AA; Meganathan, E; Arun, G; Singh, LH; Paul, B.
Introduction: India accounts for a significant share of global smokeless tobacco users. Tobacco consumption, both smoking and chewing, is associated with oral mucosal lesions that may progress to cancer. Truck drivers are a vulnerable group due to occupational stress and high-risk habits. Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of oral precancerous lesions among truck drivers in Kolkata and identify associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 171 truck drivers selected by systematic random sampling from December 2022 to February 2023. Data were collected using a pretested interview schedule followed by oral examination. Data were analyses using SPSS version 24. Results: The median age was 37 (IQR 30, 55) years. All participants were male; 157 (91.8%) belonged to lower and middle socioeconomic classes. Tobacco use was reported in 68.4%, alcohol use in 69 (40.4%), and 24 (14.0%) had oral precancerous lesions, with leucoplakia being most common. Multivariable logistic regression identified poor oral hygiene (aOR = 6.29; p = 0.001), younger age (aOR = 0.012; p = 0.001), tobacco use (aOR = 24.12; p = 0.003), and years of truck driving (aOR = 1.41; p < 0.0001) as significant predictors. Conclusion: The study found a 14.6% prevalence of oral precancerous lesions, significantly associated with tobacco use, poor oral hygiene, younger age, and longer driving duration. Targeted workplace screening, oral health education, and cessation support are recommended for early detection and prevention among high-risk occupational groups.
A Newly Introduced Millet-based Take Home Ration: Utilization, Strength & Challenges in Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, Gujarat
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-06) Gajjar, K; B, Mital; Shah, SM; Shukla, A; Joshi, B.
Introduction: The Government of India is promoting millet-based nutrition through Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and POSHAN Abhiyaan. In December 2023, two ICDS blocks of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) implemented a pilot project to provide a millet-based Take Home Ration (THR). Objectives: To evaluate the utilization and barriers in utilization of a millet-based Take Home Ration compared to the standard Take Home Ration among beneficiaries and to identify strength and challenges in effective implementation of millet-based Take Home Ration. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted across 60 Anganwadi Centres (AWCs), with 30 each from millet-based THR and standard THR blocks. Using WHO cluster sampling and Probability Proportional to Size methodology, a total of 1,627 beneficiaries were surveyed—comprising children aged 6 months to 3 years (n1=1178), pregnant women (n2=220), and lactating mothers (n3=229). Data were collected in April 2024, four months post-implementation, using a structured, pilot-tested questionnaire. Results: Utilization of millet-based THR was lower (n=749, 92%) compared to standard THR (n=773, 95%), with a significant gap among children (91.8% vs. 95.9%, p=0.003). However, the frequency of consumption per week (3.4±2.05 vs. 2.3±1.33 times, p<0.001) and monthly packet usage (5.05±1.9 vs. 4.5±2 packet, p<0.001) were significantly higher in the millet-based group. Barriers to utilization included disliking the taste (53%) and appearance (47%). Awareness of the change in THR composition was limited (53%), and recipe demonstrations were not conducted. Conclusion: Millet-based THR was well tolerated with no adverse effects. However, effective implementation requires improved taste, community sensitization and training of Anganwadi workers.
Knowledge and Utilization of Antenatal and Postnatal Services in an Urban area of South-East Delhi: A Cross-Sectional Study
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-06) Tabassum, S; Shyambhavee; Yadav, K; Gautami, K.
Introduction: Poorer pregnancy outcomes are linked to inadequate antenatal care (ANC) and Postnatal care (PNC). Thus, adequate knowledge and utilization of these services among expectant mothers becomes the key to achieving healthy pregnancy outcomes. Objective: To assess the knowledge and utilization of ANC and PNC services among women who delivered in last 1 year residing in an Urban area of South-East Delhi. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among 150 women who delivered within the last one year residing in an urban area of South-East Delhi. Data collection between May 2024 to July 2024 was done with the help of pre-designed, validated, structured questionnaire using simple random sampling. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS which included computation of proportions and univariate analysis, which was done using chi-square test. Result: Good knowledge regarding basic ANC, Janani Suraksha yojana (JSY) and Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK), Anganwadi services and Home-based Newborn Care (HBNC) was reported by 140 (93.3%), 55 (36.7%), 127 (84.7%), 104 (69.3%), and 113 (75.3%) of the study participants, respectively. Good utilization of the services including basic ANC, JSSY and PMMVY, JSSK, Anganwadi services and HBNC was reported by 139 (92.7%), 13 (8.7%), 94 (62.7%), 104 (55.3%), and 113 (75.3%) of the study participants, respectively. Conclusion: The study reported good knowledge and utilization of basic ANC services. However, significant gaps were reported for the services provided under JSY, PMMY followed by JSSK, Anganwadi services and HBNC.
Prevalence, Patterns and Predictors of Physical Inactivity in a Rural area of Goa: A Community Based Cross Sectional Study
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-06) Robin, R; Da Silva, VGP.
Introduction: Physical inactivity significantly raises the risk of death from noncommunicable diseases and about one-third of adults fall short of recommended activity levels. In India, inactivity has surged from 22.3% in 2000 to 49.4% in 2022, prompting urgent action. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for research to better understand and address the growing burden of inactivity and its health consequences. Objective: To estimate the prevalence of physical inactivity among adults residing in rural area of Goa and to study the factors associated with it. Methods: A Community based cross sectional study was conducted amongst individuals ?18 years residing in field practice area of Rural health & training centre, Mandur, Goa. A semi structured questionnaire with Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) was used to collect data. At a proportion of 22%, 95% confidence interval and 5% absolute error the sample size was 300. Systematic random sampling was employed. Results: Out of 300 study participants, 158 (52.7%) were females and 142 (47.3%) were males. Prevalence of physical inactivity in the study population was 113 (37.7%). Age (p=0.021), Sex (p=0.012), Education (p=0.014), Occupation (p=0.024), Smoking (p=0.001), Alcohol (p=0.001) and Comorbidities (p=0.001) were found to be significantly associated with physical inactivity. Conclusion: This study highlights that many adults in rural Goa lead inactive lifestyles, which can impact their health in the long run. To tackle this issue, policymakers should focus on creating more opportunities for physical activity and strengthen community health programs to promote overall well-being.
How Students Learn: Perspective of Medical Graduates about Teaching-Learning and Academic Performance
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-06) Dhakne-Palwe, S; Kadu, S; Baxi, G; Kaushik, S; Patil, M; Kanitkar, M.
Introduction: This study investigates medical students' perceptions of teaching-learning experiences across ten medical colleges affiliated with the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS), focusing on high resource colleges (HRCs) and low resource colleges (LRCs). Objectives: To assess the perceived quality of teaching-learning experiences among undergraduate medical students in HRCs and LRCs affiliated with MUHS, and to examine the association between these perceptions, self-reported academic performance, and compliance with teaching schedules. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,024 undergraduate students selected from 10 out of 62 MUHS-affiliated medical colleges, using purposive sampling based on resource availability (5 HRCs, 5 LRCs). Data were collected via a validated 24-item questionnaire administered online. The sampling technique was convenience-based, and the response rate was approximately 14.6%. Statistical analysis included Chi-square tests to compare categorical variables. Results: Statistically significant differences were observed in compliance with planned teaching schedules and perceived quality of education between HRCs and LRCs (p <0.05). HRC students reported higher prevalence of >80% self-reported attendance (53.7%) compared to LRC students (38.1%). Students from HRCs reported higher mean scores for perceived quality of education (4.2 ± 0.5) compared to LRCs (3.5 ± 0.7). Both groups favoured hybrid learning methods, but LRC students cited infrastructure deficiencies as barriers. Conclusions: The study underscores that resource availability correlates with student perceptions of teaching quality and schedule adherence.
Evaluation of Quality of Life in Patients on Different Treatment Modalities for Primary Glaucoma in a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital- A Prospective Observational Study
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-03) Santoki, H; Prajapati, NB; Raval, R; Shah, K; Tiwari, H; Sood, SV.
Introduction: Glaucoma, causes irreversible vision loss, involves optic nerve damage due to increased aqueous outflow resistance in primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) or iris blockage in primary-angle closure glaucoma (PACG). Objective: This study evaluates different treatment patterns and their effectiveness in primary glaucoma using the NEI VFQ-25. Method: A 2-month prospective observational study included patients with primary glaucoma, excluding those with secondary glaucoma or other ocular conditions. The sample size was determined based on study duration. Treatment groups received medical, laser, or surgical interventions, alone or combined. NEI VFQ-25 was administered at baseline and one month. Results: Among 100 patients, mean age 56.7 years, equally divided between POAG and PACG, QoL improved significantly across all treatment groups, greatest in medical treatment alone, multimodal treatment, least. One-way ANOVA showed difference in treatment approach on outcomes. Conclusion: Using NEI-VFQ-25, study assessed QoL in glaucoma patients across six treatment groups, finding highest QoL with medical therapy alone and lowest with combined treatments.
Determinants of Drug Resistance Among Tuberculosis Patients: A Hospital-Based Case-Control Study
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-03) Pundir, AS; Juyal, R; Shikha, D; Mishra, A; Singh, P.
Introduction: Tuberculosis is a public health concern for developing and low-income countries including India. The emergence of drug-resistant tuberculosis has added to the already existing economic and social burden. Objective: To assess the determinants of drug resistance among tuberculosis patients attending the tertiary care hospital Method: A hospital-based case-control study was carried out with sample size of 220 in a tertiary care institution, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, over the span of one year. Convenient sampling method was used to identify the cases and matched controls were selected with 1:1 ratio from patients visiting the outpatient department of the hospital. Data collection involved face-to-face interviews using a pretested structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS for Windows. Results: The majority of study subjects belonged to the age group of 15-34 years. Higher numbers of DR-TB cases were found to have Diabetes mellitus (14.5%) as compared to controls (9.1%). The risk involved in development of drug resistance was approximately 4 times higher in TB contacts and it was statistically significant (p-value 0.027). Higher number of DR-TB cases reported having TB in the past (66.3%) as compared to controls (20%). The majority of cases (48.2%) were found to be underweight as compared to controls (10.1%). Conclusion: Risk of development of DR-TB among diabetic cases was 1.7 times more in comparison to controls. The risk of development of drug resistance was 7.8 times more in subjects who had TB in the past. Underweight cases were more susceptible to developing DR-TB (OR 4.9; p<0.0001).
A Cross-Sectional Study of Stress and Related Conditions Among Nursing Students at a Tertiary Care Hospital, North India
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-03) Singh, S; Kunwer, R; Pathak, P; Singh, C.
Introduction: Mental well-being is a vital component of overall health, particularly for nursing students who face academic, clinical, and career-related pressures. Objective: To estimate the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress emotions among nursing students and its association with societal and bio-social behavioural factors. Method: An analytic cross-sectional study was conducted at a nursing college of a tertiary care hospital in Lucknow, India, from November 2023 to August 2024. 240 nursing students enrolled for the study with complete enumeration, out of which 205 filled questionnaires. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire, including the DASS-21 scale to assess depression, anxiety and stress levels. Societal variables (religion, caste, residence, family type) and bio-social behavioural factors (sleep duration, social media use, spiritual practices, and outdoor sports) were analysed. Statistical analysis was performed using STATA 18.0, and Chi-square tests were applied to determine associations. Results: Out of 205 nursing students, 78 (38%) experienced depressive emotions, 109 (53.2%) reported anxiety, and 84 (41%) suffered from stress emotions. Depression was most common among third-year students 24 (48%), anxiety among fourth-year students 35 (61.4%), and stress among third-year students 31 (62%). Social factors such as female gender, rural residence, hostel living, and minority religion were significantly associated with depression, anxiety and stress. Bio-social behaviours, including fewer than six hours of sleep and lack of outdoor activities, were significantly linked to higher depression, anxiety and stress scores. Conclusion: Nursing students face substantial mental health challenges, with anxiety being the most prevalent. Stress-related disorders were significantly associated with demographic factors such as Muslim religion, rural place of residence, residing in. hostels, Hours of sleep and indulgence in outdoor sports were found to be protective for stress-related illnesses.
Morbidity Profile of Sedentary Workers in a Food Packaging Industry in Goa: A Retrospective Record-Based Study
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-03) Nadia, DCM; Cacodcar, JA.
Introduction: With the advent of mechanization and technological advancement, there is an increase in sedentary and light intensity nature of work in the food manufacturing industry. Objective: To describe the morbidity profile of sedentary workers and factors associated with it in a food packaging industry in Goa. Method: A retrospective record-based study was conducted for a period of 3 months on 523 workers from food packaging industry in North Goa who are registered with an Occupational Health Service. Morbid conditions such as common chronic diseases like Diabetes, Hypertension, Visual and auditory problems were studied. Continuous data with normal distribution were expressed as mean and standard deviation. Morbidity profile was depicted as frequency and percentage and association with appropriate statistical test. Results: Majority, i.e. 495 workers (94.6%) did not have any co-morbidity, 17 (3.3%) had hypertension, 7 (1.3%) had diabetes and 4 (0.8%) had both diabetes and hypertension. Age ?30 years (p=0.000), presence of comorbidities (p=0.011), near vision (p=0.000), total vision (p=0.031) and blood pressure (p=0.002) were significantly associated with being overweight or obese. A low positive correlation was observed between Body Mass Index and systolic blood pressure (r=0.232, p=0.000), diastolic blood pressure (r=0.166, p=0.000) and Random Blood Sugar Level (r=0.089, p=0.042). Conclusion: Workers from the food packaging industry suffer from diabetes, hypertension and overweight, which are known to progress with prolonged periods of reduced physical activity as seen at their workplace.
Screen-time and Associated Factors among MBBS Students of a Government Medical College of Northeast India: A Cross-sectional Study
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-03) Das, S; Bhattacharjya, H; Datta, D; Das, R.
Introduction: Individuals now-a-days spend considerable time for viewing at LCD or LED screens of electronic gadgets. Such prolonged viewing may affect their health adversely. Objective: To estimate the proportion of high screen-time among MBBS students of a Government Medical College of Northeast India and to determine its association with their self-reported health problems and socio-demographic factors. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted during August and September 2024, using a self-administered and validated questionnaire in a calculated sample of 254 MBBS students of a Government Medical College, chosen by stratified random sampling. High screen-time was defined as spending more than 2 hours per day by a person for viewing an active LCD or LED screen. Chi-square test was used to test the significance of difference between two or more proportions and logistic regression analysis was also used. Results: Proportion of high screen-time was found to be 96.1% (244). Among all, 96.4% of the male, 96.7% of the urban, 98.3% of the hosteller, 97.5% of the students from nuclear families and all of the third year MBBS students had high screen-time. Except the type of family, proportion of high screen-time did not differ significantly across different groups of students. Logistic regression analysis has identified 'studying online' rd (AOR: 1.984, 95% CI: 1.565�342) and 'studying in 3 year' [AOR: 1.756, 95% CI: 1.014�671) as the significant determinants of screen-time (p<0.05). No significant association was detected between screen-time and self- reported health problems of the respondents. Conclusion: Majority of the MBBS students have high screen-time but rd it had no significant association with their self-reported health problems. Studying online' and 'studying in 3 year' were found to be significant determinants of high screen-time.
Nutritional Status and its Associated Factors Among Under-Five Children Attending the Well Baby Clinic of a Tertiary Care Institute of Kolkata, India
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-03) Naskar, S; Pattanayak, S; Nath, S; Gupta, K; Sarkar, NH; Sardar, SS.
Introduction: A Well-Baby Clinic (WBC) is a primary healthcare facility, where children are monitored for growth and development, receive routine immunization and their caregivers are given appropriate nutritional counselling. Objective: To assess the nutritional status (Underweight and anaemia) of under-5 children attending WBC of a Tertiary Care Institute of Kolkata and to identify any associated sociodemographic characteristics. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of 3 months (May 2023 to July 2023) among 106 under- 5 children, attending WBC of a Tertiary care Institute of Kolkata, selected using consecutive sampling. Face-to-face interviews were conducted among caregivers of children using an interview schedule, and anthropometric measurements and haemoglobin levels of the children were obtained using appropriate tools. Nutritional status was defined as Normal, Underweight, and Severely Underweight based on weight for age. Anaemia levels were categorized as mild, moderate, and severe based on haemoglobin levels. Association of sociodemographic characteristics with nutritional status was assessed using Binary Logistic Regression. Results: Among the children, 72.6% belonged within 12-24 months. Almost 19% and 17% of children were Moderately Underweight and Severely Underweight, respectively. Nearly 75% had a history of exclusive breastfeeding till 6 completed months of life, while 34% received formula feed. Regression analyses revealed statistically significant associations between the nutritional status of children with their gender and mothers' education. Conclusion: Nearly 36% of the under-5 children who attended the Well-Baby Clinic of a Tertiary Care Institute in Kolkata were categorised as Moderately or Severely Underweight, indicating that a sizable fraction of these infants had nutritional issues. Furthermore, the nutritional health of these children was found to be statistically significantly correlated with maternal education and gender, highlighting the significance of addressing sociodemographic inequities.
Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices and Their Association with Women抯 Autonomy: A Community-Based Study in Rural West Bengal
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-03) Sarkar, NH; Ray, K; Basu, SS; Gupta, K; Rashid, M; Basu, M.
Introduction: In majority of societies women are the primary caregivers of children. Poor feeding habits in early childhood contribute to malnutrition and child mortality in India. While the effects of some of the resources such as education on child feeding practices have been extensively evaluated, women's autonomy have received less attention. Objective: To assess feeding practices among the infants and young children in Budge-budge II block of West Bengal. Method: A descriptive study with cross-sectional design was conducted among 161 children between 6-23 months of age and their respondent mothers in Budge-Budge II block, West Bengal, using multistage random sampling. Mothers were interviewed face to face, and data were collected using a predesigned, pretested and structured IYCF practice schedule and a Likert-type women's autonomy measurement scale and analysed using SPSS v26.0. Multivariable binary logistic regression and the Pearson's correlation was done to find association. Results: Among the study participants, 155 (96.3%) reported being breastfed, 29 (18%) received pre-lacteal feed, 60 (37.3%) had not initiated breastfeeding early within 1 hour, 149 (92.5%) received colostrum, 39 (24.2%) were not exclusively breastfed; 119 (73.9%) of the study participants had adequate meal frequency whereas 87 (54%) and 97 (60.2%) had inadequate dietary diversity and acceptable diet respectively. Overall IYCF practice was significantly poor 113 (70.2%). Among the mothers 88 (54.7%) had lower level of autonomy. Conclusion: More than half of the study participants had poor overall IYCF practices. A majority of the mothers were having a lower level of autonomy. IYCF practices were found to be poorer among the female children and those delivered by Caesarean Section. Moderately positive correlation was found between mothers' autonomy and IYCF practices.
Health-Seeking Behaviour and its Challenges for Reproductive Tract Infections Among Married Women of Reproductive Age Group Residing at Urban Slums of Agra: A Cross-Sectional Study
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-03) Yadav, A; Chaudhary, SS; Kaur, S; Madhukar, MN; Sonam.
Introduction: Reproductive tract infections continue to be a major public health issue, especially for urban low-income women of reproductive age. RTI burden is increased by delayed diagnosis and treatment due to poor health-seeking behaviour and other socioeconomic constraints. This study looks at the health-seeking habits and difficulties of married, reproductive-age women living in Agra's urban slums. Objective: 1. To assess the health- seeking behaviour for reproductive tract infections among married women of urban slum of Agra. 2. To explore the challenges they faced for the treatment of reproductive tract infections Method: A cross-sectional study among 500 married women in Agra's urban slums used the WHO syndromic approach for RTI/STI diagnosis. Multistage random sampling selected one ward and two slums. Interviews followed a random starting direction and the left- hand rule until the sample size was met. Results: The study found that 57.92% of females with RTI/STI symptoms sought treatment, while 42.07% did not, with barriers including perceived lack of importance, financial constraints, embarrassment, lack of family support, and time limitations. Conclusion: In Agra's urban slums, just over half of women sought treatment for RTI/STI symptoms, primarily at government facilities, while significant barriers prevented others. Perceived lack of seriousness, financial constraints, and embarrassment were key deterrents. A major reason for stopping the treatment was absence of symptoms. Interventions are needed to increase awareness, improve access, address financial issues and reduce stigma.
A Study on Perceptions, Practices, and Experiences About Antibiotic Consumption and Antibiotic Resistance Among Various Stakeholders From the Catchment Area of an Urban Health Training Centre in Ahmedabad
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-03) Patel, N; Patel, P; Sharma, R; Patel, B; Gajjar, S; Bapat, N; Chandegara, A.
Introduction: Misuse or abuse of antibiotic consumption, leading to antibiotic resistance, is an emerging global public health issue. It is crucial to regulate the antibiotic usage by involving all stakeholders. Objective: To document the perceptions, practices, and experiences about antibiotic consumption and awareness of antibiotic resistance amongst doctors, drug dispensers, and end-users. Method: A qualitative study was conducted in the UHTC catchment area, Ognaj, Ahmedabad. A total of 26 In-depth interviews with stakeholders (10 Doctors, 8 Drug dispensers and 8 End users) were conducted using an interview guide. Various themes and sub themes were categorized manually, and verbatim were quoted, at the end of all the In-depth interviews, name of the antibiotics spoken was categories into Access, Watch and Reserve group as per WHO AWaRe classification and word cloud analysis was done. Results: Participated doctors had a wide range of qualifications and experience. It was found that doctors prescribe antibiotics mainly from the Access and Watch group (more from the Watch group). Drug dispensers were concerned about over-the-counter (OTC) dispensing and self-medication of antibiotics. However, they also shared the fact that the antibiotics are dispensed without prescriptions. End-users commonly sought antibiotics for minor ailments without prescriptions. Only one end user was aware of the implications of self- medication and resultant antibiotic resistance. Conclusion: Most antibiotics prescribed by doctors and dispensed at chemist shops were from the Watch and Access groups, respectively. End users mainly purchased antibiotics from the Access and Watch groups. The findings highlight the urgent need for awareness sessions on antibiotic use and resistance for all stakeholders, along with stronger regulatory measures to control antibiotic sales by drug dispensers.
A Cross-Sectional Study on Functional Disability among the Elderly in Rural Area of Goa
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2024-09) Arya, Ravi; Da Silva, Vanita G. Pinto
Introduction: Functional disability among the elderly reduces autonomy, leading to dependency, decreased quality of life, increased hospitalization, and higher mortality rates, ultimately lowering general life expectancy and increasing disabled life expectancy. Objectives: 1. To estimate the prevalence of functional disability among the elderly residing in the field practice area of Rural Health and Training Centre, Mandur, Goa. 2. To determine the factors associated with functional disability among study participants Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among elderly individuals (aged 60 years and above) in the field practice area of Rural Health and Training Centre, Mandur, Goa. Systematic random sampling recruited 372 participants from 1,588 households. Functional disability was assessed using the Barthel Index, with data analysed using SPSS 22.0. Prevalence was expressed as a percentage, and associations were evaluated using significance tests and Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals. Results: Out of 372 participants (mean age: 71.24 ± 8.03 years), 95 (25.5%) had functional disabilities in ADL, visual, or hearing impairments. Significant associations were found with age, literacy, financial dependence, and current alcohol consumption (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The high prevalence of functional disability among the elderly in rural Goa highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve quality of life and independence. Health education, literacy, and financial support are critical for preserving functional abilities. Community- based initiatives and supportive healthcare policies are essential for reducing disability and healthcare costs among the elderly.
Assessment of the Time Utilization of the Community Health Officers (CHO) of Bhavnagar District, Gujarat: A Cross-sectional Study
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2024-09) Prajapati, Kartik B.; Bhalani, Kailesh D.
Introduction: To attain "universal health coverage" and "health of all", a new cadre namely Community Health Officer (CHO) was introduced at HWC (Health and Wellness Center). In the community, CHO serves as the initial point of contact and source of information for health-related issues. Objective: To assess the utilization of time of CHO at HWCs, Bhavnagar. Method: Out of 63 CHOs with experience of more than 1 year in Bhavnagar district, 30 CHOs were selected randomly for utilization of time. Each CHO was accompanied during their duty hours for all working days of a week. Time spent by a CHO in different activities was recorded. Data were analyzed by using Epi Info Software. Results: It was observed that on an average, CHOs remained on duty for 93% of their duty hours. Around 29.61% of their actual on-duty-time (per week) was used for the personal work, while 17.34% of their on-duty-time was used in OPD, 14.36 % in COVID-19 related work and 14.13% in administration work. Conclusion: The analysis revealed that CHOs spent 93% of their scheduled duty hours on the job. CHOs spent almost one third of their duty hours for the personal work.

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