International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health

Permanent URI for this collection

https://imsear.searo.who.int/handle/123456789/156152

Editor-in-Chief: Dr. Bhaven C. Kataria
ISSN: 2394-6032 (Print):2394-6040 (Online)

Frequency: Quarterly

Language: English

Open Access Peer-reviewed journal

Web site: https://www.ijcmph.com/

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Now showing 1 - 20 of 3423

Prevalence of musculoskeletal pain in field hockey players of Maharashtra: a cross-sectional study
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) Khatavkar, MA; Pawar, S; Kedare, S.
Background: Field hockey has its dynamic nature involving multidirectional movements which may lead to injuries. Thus, the study was aimed to find prevalence of pain and further categorizing with respect to gender, type of players and their playing positions, amongst hockey players. Methods: It was a cross-sectional observational study taken place amongst various hockey clubs and Maharashtra Hockey Association. 363 participants out of 700 of mean age (20.89�.04 years) were recruited from various zones of Maharashtra, along with respective consent. Data was tabulated and analyzed using MS-Excel. Results: It was found highest in lower-back (34%) amongst the field hockey players. Based on gender, the most prevalent sites of pain were lower-back (22%) in males and neck (21%) in females. Lower back region seemed to be most prevalent in pain in both elite (42%) and recreational (29%) players. In elite players, most prevalent pain was seen as low back (46%) in males and that of bilateral hips (30%) in females. In recreational players, it was found that both genders reported prevalence of injury over lower back. (males- 25%, females- 33%). Based on play positions, it was found knee region in the goal-keepers and in lower-back of defenders get affected the most (47%). These numbers would help to filter out injury prone areas and to help in formulating preventive measures. Conclusions: It was concluded that the highest prevalence of pain was found in lower-back (34%).
Assessment of prescription patterns in a tertiary care teaching hospital of Eastern Uttar Pradesh: a retrospective observational study
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) Rukadikar, C; Bhargava, S; Rath, R; Shekhar, S; Saurabh, MK; Gajbhiye, R; Singh, B; Radha; Mehra, K; Sharma, S; Rukadikar, A.
Background: Inappropriate drug use is a pressing global health concern, particularly in developing countries like India. Poor prescribing practices can contribute to medication misuse, reduced patient adherence, and an increased risk of adverse drug events. This study aims to evaluate prescription trends in a tertiary care teaching hospital in Eastern Uttar Pradesh, focusing on identifying prevalent errors and assessing compliance with WHO prescribing indicators. Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted from May to October 2023, reviewing 400 randomly selected outpatient prescriptions from the hospital's medical records. The prescriptions were examined for completeness in terms of patient and prescriber details, medication specifics, and adherence to WHO core prescribing standards. Statistical analysis was carried out using Microsoft Excel. Results: The study found 100% completion rates in documenting patient and prescriber identifiers and medication details. However, 9.25% of prescriptions omitted the duration of treatment, 19% lacked follow-up instructions, and none included allergy status. The average number of medications per prescription was 6.28. Antibiotics were prescribed in 90.38% of cases, injections in 82%, and 84.75% of drugs were prescribed by their generic names. Furthermore, 82.75% of prescriptions followed the Essential Medicines List. Conclusions: While the study revealed strong adherence to basic prescription documentation, there were significant gaps, such as the omission of allergy status and treatment duration. These findings highlight the need for enhanced prescriber education, particularly around the rational use of antibiotics and injections, along with improved adherence to WHO guidelines.
Clinico-demographic profile and survival analysis of oral cancer patients: results from tertiary cancer care hospital in western Maharashtra, India
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) Joshi, PS; Dive, AM; Desai, SS; Patil, DB; Hormuzdi, DM.
Background: Oral cancer has a significant public health importance in India. The overall survival rate is below 50% and has remained so for many decades in spite of immense research ongoing in the field of oncology. This lays the foundation for the search of prognostically relevant factors in order to customize the individual management of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients. Objective was to evaluate and corelate clinico-demographic features and survival of selected OSCC cases. Methods: This retrospective hospital based cohort study was carried out at Mahatma Gandhi Cancer Hospital, Miraj, Maharashtra, India. A total of 1100 OSCC patients enrolled to the hospital抯 registry for management of OSCC with curative intent in the period from January 2011 to December 2016 were considered. The primary outcome measure was set as overall survival. Secondary outcome included disease-specific and disease-free survival. Student t test and chi-square test was used for categorical variables. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were plotted for survival analysis. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to assess the role of predictors. Results: The mean overall survival for the entire cohort of patients was 33.96�.19 (month抯盨D). Buccal mucosa was the commonest location and significantly less mean survival was observed for lesions located on alveolar ridges, retromolar trigone and floor of mouth and lesions in clinical stage IV. Conclusions: It is the extreme need of hour to increase public awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption and early detection of oral cancer.
Evaluation of psychological morbidities like depression, anxiety and stress as risk predictors of periodontitis using a risk assessment model: an analytical cross-sectional study
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) Mukherjee, SS; Srivastava, BK; Roy, SS; Manchanda, K; Mukherji, I; Chavan, K; Debnath, A.
Background: Sedentary lifestyles along with the impact of COVID-19 has increased negative life experience events like depression, anxiety and stress among people. This often increases the liability towards periodontal disease. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 340 individuals, from July 2022 to December 2022, visiting the outpatient department of KLE College of Dental Sciences, Bengaluru. Demographic details of those subjects were obtained through a questionnaire. Depression, anxiety and stress were calculated using the DASS 21 scale and the participants were divided into two groups based on the DASS score. Periodontal risk assessment was done using the Lang and Tonetti model. Association between psychological morbidities and periodontal risk was done using chi-square test and logistic regression analysis. Results: Out of the 340 participants, 42.9% of the females, 71.7% of the participants with BMI?25, 15.8% of the diabetics, 11.1% of the hypertensives and 75.2% of the current smokers were suffering from some form of psychological morbidity. Furthermore, binary logistic regression analysis suggested that covariates like gender, education and risk of periodontitis were significantly associated with psychological morbidity. Conclusions: The present study suggested that increase or decrease in the risk of periodontitis was significantly associated with the increase or decrease in the level of psychological morbidity.
Exploring perception of healthy aging: a qualitative study
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) Deotale, V; Telang, N; Mohanty, M; Desai, R; Golawar, S; Narlawar, U.
Background: Healthy aging is an emerging and vital topic in India due to the country抯 significant demographic shift. According to the United Nations, India had over 93.3 million persons in the 60+ age group by the end of the first decade of this century. Healthy aging involves more than just the absence of disease. To better understand the complexities of healthy aging in India, a qualitative exploration of the topic is necessary so this study explores perceptions related to healthy aging in the elderly. Methods: People aged 60 years and over, living in the community in the city of central India were selected conveniently and data was collected in various municipal corporation gardens after explaining the purpose of the study and if they were willing, to participate in the study were enrolled, 24 participants out which 66.6% and 33.3% male and female respectively and the mean age of participant were 64 year were enrolled in the study and divided into 3 focus groups, each focus group contained 8 people and each focus group discussion lasted for approximately 1 hour with probing questions until saturation, The focus groups were audio-recorded. The participants were asked to share their opinions regarding healthy aging. Results: The 5 main themes arise consisting of free from illness, social engagement, healthy lifestyle, financial stability, and self-sufficiency. Conclusions: In this study the elderly participant defined healthy aging as reaching a state of well-being that includes Free from illness, social engagement, healthy lifestyle, financial stability, and self-sufficiency.
Trends in suicide attempts and suicide mortality in Belize 2019-2023
(Medip Academy, 2025-06) Oladeji, O; Nah, E; Kirsch, J; Manzanero, R; Legins, K; Oladeji, A; Simons, J; Baitwabusa, AE; Quintanilla, I
Background: Suicide and attempts present significant public health challenges, especially with the increasing prevalence of suicides carried out using violent means. This study aimed to analyze trends in suicide mortality and attempts, methods used, and gender differences in Belize from 2019 to 2023. Methods: This retrospective quantitative study utilized secondary data from the Belize Health Information System for the period 2019 to 2023. Results: The rate of attempted suicides decreased from 28.43 per 100,000 population in 2019 to 2022, then increased to 26.16 per 100,000 population in 2023. Conversely, the suicide rate steadily rose from 6.99 per 100,000 population in 2019 to 11.38 per 100,000 population in 2023. Attempted suicides were most prevalent among adolescents aged 15-19 years, while suicides were highest among individuals aged 15-34years. Females had a higher rate of attempted suicides, whereas males had a higher suicide mortality rate. The male-to-female suicide ratio varied from 2.38 in 2019 to 7.75 in 2021 and 3.60 in 2023. Poisoning via medication overdose was the most common method for attempted suicides, while hanging was the most common method for suicides, with no significant gender differences in methods used. Mental health and substance-induced disorders were the most frequently reported risk factors for both suicide and attempted suicide. Conclusions: This study provides a comprehensive analysis of suicide attempts and mortality trends in Belize, highlighting the alarming increase in suicide rates as a serious public health concern. These findings underscore the urgent need for a multi-sectoral approach to suicide prevention.
Estimation of the burden of catastrophic costs among the TB affected families of West Bengal, India: a secondary analysis of the sub-national certification survey data
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) Dey, A; Ramachandran, R; Deka, D; Biswas, R; Chaklade,r B; Basu, R; Sengupta, B; Roy, S; Basu, P; Keshri, S; Pandey, KK.
Background: Reducing catastrophic costs due to TB is one of the major targets of TB elimination, but there is little data available in India. A sub-national certification (SNC) survey was conducted in 105 clusters of 13 revenue districts of West Bengal. The purpose of this study was to calculate the catastrophic cost and its associations using the SNC data of West Bengal. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using the secondary data collected through SNC survey during December-2022-January-2023. 483 participants having history of TB were included in the study. Results: 26.1% families were found to be affected with catastrophic cost due to TB. The mean annual family income was 691 USD (SD=806). Mean total cost incurred due to TB was 149 USD (SD=1208) including out of pocket of expenditure of 91 USD (SD=1147) and indirect costs of 58 USD (SD=200). No association of catastrophic cost was found with age, gender, religion, socio-clinical vulnerability or cash benefit received status. Those who were labourers, clinically diagnosed, diagnosed at private facilities, treatment duration more than six months and belonging to family below poverty line were found to be independently associated with higher being odds of affected with catastrophic costs. Conclusions: Despite free medicine and free diagnostics many families are still facing catastrophic costs due to TB. Cash benefits should be prioritized towards most impoverished sector of the society. The National TB Elimination Program should also strategize to reduce indirect costs due to wage loss and productivity loss.
Exploring non-communicable disease prevalence and risk factors among construction workers in urban Mysuru
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) P. V., M; Shruddha; D., SK; Gopi, A.
Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including hypertension, diabetes, which constitutes major contribution to global morbidity and mortality. While lifestyle factors are well-documented contributors, the occupational exposures also play a crucial role. Construction workers, particularly in India抯 unorganized sector, face multiple risk factors such as physically demanding labour, hazardous work environments, and limited healthcare access. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of NCDs among construction workers in urban Mysuru. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 125 male construction workers aged 18 years and above over two months (October-November 2024). Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire, and health assessments included body mass index (BMI), waist-hip ratio (WHR), blood pressure (BP), and random blood sugar (RBS). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 30, with logistic regression to determine associations between socio-demographic variables and NCD risk factors. Results: Hypertension prevalence was 32.8%, significantly associated with age (p<0.001) and tobacco use (p=0.026). Diabetes prevalence was 13.7%, also significantly associated with age (p<0.001) and tobacco use (p=0.001). Unexpectedly, non-smokers had significantly higher odds of diabetes (AOR: 13.146, p=0.012). The most commonly reported health complaints were myalgia (32.8%), general weakness (18.4%), and skin infections (11.2%). Conclusions: Construction workers in Mysuru exhibit a substantial burden of NCDs, with age and tobacco use as significant risk factors. Targeted interventions, including workplace health programs and preventive screenings, are essential to mitigate these risks and improve worker well-being.
Effectiveness of live aerobic exercises and video based aerobic exercises on stress reduction among the patients of substance use disorder in de-addiction centre of selected hospitals of Ambala, Haryana
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) Sonia; Sarin, J; Garg, D.
Background: Substance use is a major public health concern across the globe. There is a strong link between stress and substance abuse. Everyone copes with stress in different ways, but some people may resort to using drugs or alcohol to manage their stress. The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of live aerobic exercises (LAE) and video based aerobic exercises (VBAE) on stress reduction among the patients of substance use disorder in de-addiction centre of selected hospitals of Ambala, Haryana. Methods: Quantitative research approach, quasi experimental non-equivalent control group pretest post-test design was used to collect the data from 40 patients of substance use disorder (20 LAE group, 20 VBAE group) by using purposive sampling technique. Data was collected by using modified perceived stress scale (PSS-10) through interview technique. Live aerobic exercises and video based aerobic exercises were administered continuously for one week after pretest. Results: The findings showed that there was significant difference in the mean score of stress in live aerobic exercise group and video based aerobic exercise group after administration of live aerobic exercises and video based aerobic exercises as the calculated 憈� value was (-5.38 and p=0.001) with mean difference -5.35 which was statistically significant at 0.05 level of significance. Conclusions: Both live aerobic exercises and video based aerobic exercises were effective in reducing the stress among patients of substance use disorder. However, live aerobic exercises were more effective than video based aerobic exercises in stress reduction among patients of substance use disorder.
Effect of tobacco cessation on adults with pulmonary tuberculosis: a hospital based interventional study in Ahmedabad
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) Patel, N; Jain, S; Parikh, V; Patel, V.
Background: An association between smoking and poor tuberculosis (TB) treatment outcomes has been globally established. Various smoking cessation interventions have been proven worldwide to decrease smoking behavior. There is a need for evidence to assess if the interventions increase the chance of successful treatment outcome among TB patients. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of tobacco cessation intervention on cessation and treatment outcome of TB patients. Methods: An interventional study was done on smear positive pulmonary tuberculosis patients enrolled in second quarter (April-June) and third quarter (July-September) of 2019 at DMTC, civil hospital, Asarwa, Ahmedabad. After obtaining basic socio demographic data by interview, the patients were inquired about their consumption of tobacco and those consuming tobacco were randomly divided in two groups. The health education was given to only intervention group and both groups were followed up to completion of their treatment period and outcome was noted. Data was entered into a Microsoft Excel spread sheet and analyzed. Results: Tobacco consumption among TB patients was seen in 67 (25.37%) patients. At the end of the treatment, 13 (39.4%) patients in the intervention arm had quit tobacco as against 8 (23.5%) in the control arm. Treatment outcome in terms of cure rate was more in the intervention arm (51.5%) as compared to the control arm (26.5%) and the difference was found to be significant. Conclusions: The role of brief cessation advice as a measure of intervention was found to be effective in cessation of tobacco consumption.
Knowledge on text neck syndrome among paramedical students
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) Kunnath, AP; Rameshan, S; Sudheendran, DV; Rouff, F; Chandran, A; Kkunnil, SP.
Background: The smartphone has evolved into an essential tool for many individuals, serving both communication and entertainment purposes. However, the prevalence of " text neck syndrome" (TNS) is emerging as a significant health issue, potentially impacting a substantial portion of the global population. TNS is predominantly observed in adolescents, largely due to their prolonged use of handheld electronic devices. Current estimates suggest that approximately 75% of the global population spends several hours each day in a forward-leaning position while using these devices. Methods: A cross-sectional study to assess the knowledge on TNS was conducted with a sample size of 198 paramedical students from the Department of Bachelor of Physiotherapy at Thalassery, Kannur, Kerala. A convenience sampling method was employed, and informed consent was secured from each participant before data collection commenced. A structured survey questionnaire was developed, validated, and utilized in this research. Results: 59.5% of participants had poor knowledge, 25.5% had moderate knowledge, and 5% had good knowledge regarding TNS and also highlighted a significant association between knowledge and age, gender, year of study, educational status of parents, occupation of mother and duration of usage of hand-held electronic devices. Conclusions: The findings of this study highlight a significant lack of understanding regarding TNS among participants and 59.5% exhibiting insufficient knowledge. This lack of awareness is closely linked to factors such as age, gender, academic year, parental education, maternal occupation, and the amount of time spent using handheld electronic devices.
Gender-based analysis of WOMAC scores in moderate and advanced knee osteoarthritis: evaluating pain, stiffness and functional impairment
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) Rastogi, A; Kalia, RB; Meena, PK.
Background: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) significantly impacts mobility and quality of life, with key issues being pain, stiffness, and functional restrictions. With possible differences in the course of the disease and the intensity of symptoms, gender differences in OA symptoms are still uncertain. Using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC), this study examined gender-based variations in the burden of OA symptoms between KL grade 2 and KL grade 3 KOA. Methods: According to the EULAR classification, 108 patients with KOA were included in the study. Male and female patients with knee OA underwent WOMAC scores for pain, stiffness, function, and overall discomfort examined. Statistical significance was evaluated using 95% CI, mean differences, and independent t-tests. A p value of less than 0.05 has been considered significant. Results: Across all WOMAC domains, no statistically significant gender differences were discovered, and all comparisons had p values greater than 0.05. In KL grade II, males scored slightly higher on pain and stiffness, but in Kl grade III, these differences decreased. In both grades, the functional and total WOMAC scores were similar for both genders. Conclusions: The results show that among those with knee OA, there are no appreciable differences in symptom load by gender. This highlights the necessity of tailored treatment plans as opposed to gender-specific approaches. Other factors affecting OA outcomes, such as biomechanics, hormonal effects, and lifestyle factors, should be investigated further.
Factors associated with preschool attendance by children aged 12 to 59 months: a cross-sectional analytical study in the peri-urban environment of the city of Kisangani, Democratic Republic of Congo
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) Losangola, GB; Longembe, EB; Bosalo, RI; Atike, RO; Lokoni, VM; Igabuchia, FE; Tepungipame, AT; Kasai, ET; Likwela, JL.
Background: The aim of this study was to identify the factors associated with attendance at pre-school consultations by children aged 12-59 months in the peri-urban areas of Kisangani. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted from 15 June to 15 July 2024 on 850 mother-child pairs selected by multi-stage cluster sampling. Factors associated with pre-school consultations attendance were analysed using logistic regression with a stepwise degressive approach at the 10% threshold. Results: The rate of attendance at pre-school consultations was 28.9%. Factors favoring attendance included: the mother's knowledge of the age at which HPC should be started (aOR=9.11; CI95%: 3.01-27.54), the organization of HPC early in the day by the health care facility (HCF) (aOR=5.34; CI95%: 1.18-24.09), the mother's participation in health education sessions (aOR=25.99; CI95%:16.89-42.35), receiving a recommendation from the HSE team to continue pre-school consultations after vaccination (aOR=3.32; CI95%: 1.10-10.02), a waiting time ?3 hours (aOR=2.3; CI95%: 3.66-25.30) and having a source of income (aOR=5.40; CI95%: 2.39-12.20). In contrast, input stock-outs reduced attendance (aOR=0.18; CI95%: 0.08-0.42). Conclusions: Attendance at SPCs remains low in the peri-urban area of Kisangani. Improving the availability of inputs and considering the factors that have a positive influence on attendance could increase mothers' adherence to SPCs
A descriptive study to assess the knowledge regarding menstrual problems and their management among adolescent girls in selected institute of Dehradun, Uttarakhand
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) Rawat, S; Karmiyal, N; Chauhan, E; Saini, S; Kothiyal, D; Karna, V; Rana, D; Praveen, S; Pundir, N; Kumar, C.
Background: Menstrual problems are a disruptive physical and/or emotional symptoms just before and during menstruation, including heavy bleeding, missed periods and unmanageable mood swings. Menstrual problems can be cause of significant amount of stress to both the adolescent girls and their parents. Appropriate and early management of patient is necessary in order to minimize the possibility of complications in future. Methods: Quantitative research approach with non-experimental descriptive research design was used in the present study. A total of 61 samples were selected through non probability convenient sampling technique from adolescent girls of radiant public school, Doiwala, Dehradun. Structured knowledge questionnaire was given to the participants and data was collected in order to assess knowledge of each participant. Results: The present study showed that out 61 adolescent girls 95% (58) adolescents were suffering from dysmenorrhea during menstruation and 62.3% of adolescent girls had excellent knowledge regarding menstrual problems. There was a significant association between level of knowledge with age group and body type. Conclusions: From the findings of the study, it was concluded that out of 61 adolescent girls 95% (58) were suffering from dysmenorrhea during menstruation and about 62.3% have excellent knowledge regarding menstrual problems and 93.44 adolescent girls uses hot water bag to manage dysmenorrhea.
Assessment of safe injection practices among healthcare workers in a tertiary care hospital
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) Sharma, HC; Dewan, M; Banerjee, P; Srivastava, S; Sagar, D; Yadav, N.
Background: There is dearth of documented information about safe and unsafe injection practices in both developing and developed countries. Safe injection practices are intended to prevent transmission of infectious diseases from one patient to other, or between a patient and health care personnel during preparation and injection of medications. Documented record of the daily practices would lead to efficient monitoring. This will further enhance the prevention of infection by unsafe injection practices. Methods: It was cross-sectional study where healthcare workers (nursing staff, phlebotomists and doctors) were observed for safe injection practices in sample collection room, cath lab, wards and ICU. Healthcare workers were assessed by means of a pre-defined questionnaire where basic knowledge about the subject was assessed. Field training was given to the staff for safe injection practices. Results: While observing the different facilities, 28.57% had loose disposable needles lying outside packaging. 42.85% facilities had sharp waste lying in a container not meant for sharp waste. All sharp containers awaiting final disposal were stored in an area away from public access. Sharp container for final disposal in one of the facilities was not completely closed; its lid was open (14.28%). All the facilities had access to soap and water while 71% facilities had access to hand sanitizers. Pre and post tests showed the gaps in the knowledge of different healthcare workers which were improved by on-spot training. Conclusions: Education and training and regular audits go hand in hand in improving safe injection practices.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards cervical cancer screening among health students: a case of Kenya Medical Training College
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) Mutuku, FM; Otieno, C; Midigo, R.
Background: Cervical cancer is the fourth most diagnosed cancer and fourth leading cause of cancer mortality among women globally. In developing countries, it is the second most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer deaths among women. In Kenya, 33 per 100,000 women have cervical cancer and 22 per 100,000 succumb to the disease. Despite being preventable, through screening and treatment of premalignant lesions, screening is however not readily utilized in most developing countries, including Kenya. This study aimed to assess health students� knowledge, attitude and practices on cervical cancer screening. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study design was conducted among 354 female Kenya Medical Training College students using a self-administered questionnaire. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Scores for knowledge and attitude were computed as either poor, fair or good. Results: Over half of the respondents 213 (60%) had low knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors and only 35 (10%) had ever been screened. Majority 272 (76%) had good attitude towards screening. Conclusions: The study showed that screening is influenced by knowledge and attitude. Students with good knowledge and attitude were more likely to screen, but overall screening rates remain low. Developing tailored screening programs for health students are recommended to increase screening rates.
Knowledge of antimicrobial resistance among medical interns in a tertiary care teaching hospital at Karnataka: institution based cross sectional study
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) Subramani, N; Nagaveni, SJ.
Background: Antimicrobial resistance is an escalating global health issue, predominantly fueled by the excessive use and improper application of antimicrobials. Medical interns, as future healthcare providers, play a crucial role in tackling this issue through careful prescribing and patient education. Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among medical interns. A structured and validated questionnaire was used to assess their knowledge, regarding antimicrobial resistance. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 133 participants in the study, in that 71 are males and 62 are females, with a mean age of 23.6 for both groups. findings revealed that (n=119 89.4%) of interns recognized antimicrobial resistance as a significant public health issue. However, only (n=59 44.3%) were aware of antimicrobial stewardship programs. Additionally, (n=93 73.6%) acknowledged the importance of hand hygiene in preventing antimicrobial resistance. Overuse of antimicrobials in hospitals (n=78 58.4%) and incorrect dosing (n=70 52.6%) were the most commonly perceived causes of antimicrobial resistance. Regarding solutions, (n=40 30%) of participants believed completing the full course of antimicrobials was essential, and (n=36 27%) emphasized avoiding self-medication as a crucial step in controlling antimicrobial resistance. Conclusions: Participants demonstrated a strong understanding of antimicrobial resistance as a significant public health concern, gaps were identified in areas such as antimicrobial stewardship awareness and misconceptions about antibiotic discontinuation. Strengthening antimicrobial stewardship programs and promoting rational prescribing practices will be key in addressing antimicrobial resistance effectively.
Comparative assessment of tongue posture in class II division 1 patients treated with functional appliance and camouflage orthodontic treatment: a retrospective cephalometric study
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) Joseph, AS; Pradhan, T.
Background: Class II division 1 malocclusion is frequently associated with mandibular retrognathism, which may compromise tongue posture and airway, increasing the risk of respiratory issues. This study aimed to assess and compare the effects of functional appliance therapy and extraction-based camouflage orthodontic treatment on tongue posture in Class II division 1 patients. Limited literature exists on the impact of anterior retraction on tongue posture in skeletal Class II camouflage cases, warranting further investigation. Methods: A retrospective cephalometric analysis was conducted on two groups: patients treated with functional appliances and those treated with premolar extractions. Pre- and post-treatment lateral cephalograms were analyzed using cephalometric parameters described by Rakosi and Lowe (tg1杢g7, tgH, tgL). Inter- and intra-group comparisons were made using the independent and dependent t-test respectively. Results: Functional therapy showed significant improvement in total tongue length TgL intra and inter-group, suggesting enhanced oral cavity volume and forward tongue positioning. The anterior tongue dimension (Tg1) also showed significant inter-group difference. In contrast, camouflage treatment showed a significant intra-group reduction in TgL, indicating possible tongue space restriction. Other tongue posture parameters showed non-significant trends. Conclusions: Functional appliance therapy benefits tongue posture and airway space, particularly in growing patients, by promoting mandibular and tongue advancement. In contrast, extraction-based camouflage may adversely affect tongue posture, especially in non-growing individuals. These findings emphasize the importance of airway-focused treatment planning and support the use of functional appliances when indicated.
Evaluating first aid knowledge among primary teachers and service evaluation in government schools, Visakhapatnam, India
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) Peddinti, LPS; Agiwal, V; Rangaraju, SM; Chaudhari, S.
Background: Ensuring school children's safety is crucial due to their susceptibility to illnesses/injuries and limited ability self-protect. Teachers serve as vital role in the absence of immediate medical assistance, highlighting the importance of basic first-aid training and preparedness for various health emergencies to safeguard students' well-being. Therefore, this study assessed the level of first-aid knowledge among government primary school teachers in Vishakhapatnam, India. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess first-aid knowledge among primary teachers in government schools in urban Visakhapatnam. Cluster sampling was employed to select schools, followed by simple random sampling within each selected school to choose teachers. Quantitative phase considered a semi-structured, validated online questionnaire developed by Tech Mahindra Foundation and service evaluation involved discussion with principals. Results: Among 133 participants, 65 (48.87%) held postgraduate degrees and majority 91 (68.42%) were female. 93.23% (n=124) were familiar with first-aid procedures but only 78 (58.65%) completely unaware when to replace a first-aid kit. A higher proportion of males demonstrating good knowledge compared to females (P value = 0.031). Study suggested adding items to first-aid kits and implementing safety signage boards. Participants recommended formal first-aid training by government, NGOs, or healthcare professionals to enhance skills and knowledge. Conclusions: The study revealed high first-aid knowledge among primary teachers, but identified gaps in supply replacement and specific emergency responses. These findings are crucial for enhancing safety and improving first-aid knowledge, highlighting the importance of collaboration between teachers and parents through first aid awareness sessions to effectively respond to medical emergencies at school and home.
Association between self-rated health and physical activity among physician assistants in Ghana: a cross-sectional study
(Medip Academy, 2025-07) Akwaboah, PK; Larweh, R; Somuah, AA; Baah, G; Ntiri, KA.
Background: Self-rated health (SRH) has been a subjective measure of health, yet its association with physical activity (PA) among healthcare workers in sub-Saharan Africa remains underexplored. This study examined the association between SRH and PA [leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and active transportation (AT)] among Physician Assistants in Ghana. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 439 licensed Physician Assistants was conducted between October and December 2024 using an online survey. Multivariate logistic regressions modelled the association between SRH and PA, using adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and controlling for sociodemographic, work-related, environmental and psychological factors. Results: Overall, 18.7% of PAs reported poor SRH. Participants in the third quartile of LTPA had the highest odds of good SRH (aOR=3.36, 95% CI: 1.58�16), though a plateau effect was observed at higher activity levels. AT to and from work was significantly associated with good SRH (aOR=2.32 and 2.16, respectively). Anxiety, older age, lower income, lower rank and poor environmental conditions were associated with reduced odds of good SRH. The availability of sidewalks showed a strong positive association with good SRH. Gender differences in PA domains were also observed, with males being significantly more active than females. Conclusions: Engagement in moderate LTPA and active commuting is associated with good SRH among Ghanaian Physician Assistants. Interventions to increase physical activity may enhance health outcomes in this vital health workforce. Longitudinal studies are needed to establish causal relationships and inform policy.

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