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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Risk assessment of type 2 diabetes among the adult population using Indian Diabetes Risk Score: a community-based cross-sectional study in Central India
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Sastry, NP; Deshmukh, JS; Ekre, KR; Solanki, MD; Nitnaware, VV.
Background: Diabetes mellitus is one of the leading causes of long term morbidity and is a major health hazard in a developing country like India. Because of the disease’s growing burden, its iceberg nature, its consequences, and the ability to prevent the complications through early identification and treatment, strong efforts for early diabetes diagnosis are essential. Early identification of the high risk individuals would help in taking appropriate intervention thus helping to prevent, or at least delay, the onset of diabetes. Indian Diabetes Risk Score (IDRS) is a cost-effective tool for screening of undiagnosed diabetic individuals in the community. Methods: A community based cross sectional study was conducted in the urban field practice area of Indira Gandhi Government Medical College, Nagpur, Maharashtra among 360 participants above 18 years of age. Indian Diabetes Risk Score (IDRS) was used to assess risk of diabetes. Chi-square test was applied to determine association between variables. Results: Out of the 360 study participants, 86 (23.89%), 156 (43.33%) and 118 (32.78%) participants were in low risk, moderate risk and high risk categories respectively. Risk of diabetes was significantly associated with age, socioeconomic status, physical activity, adequate fruit and vegetable intake, high consumption of sweet foods, history of hypertension, family history of diabetes, body mass index and waist circumference. Conclusions: Risk assessment using IDRS is useful for screening of individuals. This would help to take necessary interventions for their early diagnosis and treatment.
Awareness about the role of physical activity and diet on oral health and respiratory health: a questionnaire based cross sectional study
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Kavitake, RD; Chand, S; Khan, M; Shaktawat, N; Chauhan, M; Chouhan, DS.
Background: This cross-sectional study was carried out to assess the awareness of role of diet in oral and systemic health and their inter-relationship amongst the general population of Jodhpur city, Rajasthan. Methods: A cross-sectional epidemiological survey was conducted 800 subjects of Jodhpur city Rajasthan region and a self-constructed questionnaire was used to collect the information. Here patient’s awareness for periodontal-systemic health inter-relationship was also assessed by questionnaire. Study is started conducting from 15th August 2023 to 25th July 2024. Study was completed in 11 months 10 days. Results: It was observed that majority knew about role of diet in oral and respiratory health whereas many of them were not much aware about association of periodontal and systemic conditions which was statistically significant. Conclusions: There is an imperative call for ample educational programs to promote good oral hygiene awareness and its impact on systemic health amongst the general population.
Opinion, perception and attitude of medical students towards family adoption programme- a cross sectional study
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Gurav, RB; Nair, AS; Tomar, P.
Background: Right from first MBBS to third MBBS part one, the community medicine curriculum includes family adoption programme (FAP). It involves adopting families by medical students from underserved communities and tackling various health problems among them. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 232 MBBS students of Rajiv Gandhi Medical College, Thane in the month of January 2024 using purposive sampling method. Pre-designed proforma was used to record age and gender of the students and 18 Likert scale questions for assessing their opinion, perception and attitude towards FAP. The data was entered in Microsoft Excel and analysed. SE (p1-p2) test was applied. The statistical level of significance was fixed at p<0.05. Results: 150 (64.66%) students had strongly agreed for ‘FAP is important to understand the health problems among the adopted family’ and 112 (48.28%) to ‘FAP is essential to understand social problems among the adopted family’.76 (32.76%) subjects had strongly agreed for ‘FAP is useful to understand concept and structure of the family’ and 102 (43.97%) for ‘FAP is innovative way for learning community medicine’. 31 (13.36%) students had strongly agreed for ‘FAP should be conducted in urban area’ while 95 (40.95%) were for ‘FAP should be conducted in rural area’. 86 (37.07%) subjects had strongly agreed to ‘I am happy with the allotted families’. 95 (40.95%) students had strongly agreed for ‘FAP is the foundation of my future medical practice’. Conclusions: The medical students were highly motivated and under appropriate supervision they can create significant difference in promotion of health of the adopted families.
Screen addiction and associated factors among grade-10 school children in Nuwaragampalatha- east educational zone in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Manori, SDM; Bowatta, SPG; Basnayaka, UP; Fernando, JMW; Nishshanka, NT; Pathirana, KSHP; Senarathna, DNAM.
Background: Screen addiction has become a significant concern among school children in recent years due to the widespread use of digital devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. The objective was to assess the prevalence of screen addition and associated factors among grade 10 students in Nuwaragampalatha- east educational zone in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out among students studying in grade 10. Sample size was 318. Three schools selected randomly from Type 1AB, IC and type 2 categories and proportionate to the number of students in grade 10, sample was recruited from each school. Study instruments comprised Internet addiction test, Perceived stress scale and an interviewer administered questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression was utilized to identify associated factors of screen addiction. Probability <0.05 was selected as the significant level. The results were expressed as odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: Response rate was 100% (N=318). Mild screen addiction was reported among 29.6% (95% CI=24.6-34.9) and 20.1% (95% CI=15.9-25.0%) showed moderate level while 1.6% (95%CI=0.5-3.6) had severe addiction. Half of the students (n=155) with no screen addiction. Male sex (AOR=1.9; 95% CI=1.1-3.3; p=0.021), spending more than two hours with social media (AOR=6.1; 95% CI=3.5-13.5; p<0.001), moderate and high stress levels (AOR=3.9; 95% CI=2.3-7.0; p<0.001) and not engage in physical exercises > one hour per day (AOR=2.4; 95% CI=1.2-4.8; p=0.014) were found to be associated factors with screen addiction. Conclusions: More than half of the students had some form of screen addiction. Except sex, other associated factors are modifiable.
Prevalence of surgical site infections in a tertiary care teaching hospital in Goa, India: a cross-sectional study
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Narathattil, A; Ferreira, AM.
Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a major category of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), particularly in surgical settings. They lead to extended hospital stays, increased morbidity, and financial burden. The study was conducted in the surgical wards of Goa medical college, a tertiary care hospital, to assess the prevalence of SSIs and identify the key bacterial pathogens and associated risk factors. Methods: A cross-sectional, prospective study design was employed, involving 378 patients aged over 18 years admitted for surgical procedures. Data collection included daily follow-up for signs of infection, identification of bacterial pathogens, and analysis of potential risk factors such as age, type of surgery, duration of postoperative drain, length of hospital stays, and wound classification. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS software, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: The study identified an SSI prevalence of 12.69% among the participants, with Pseudomonas being the most common causative agent. Significant risk factors included extended postoperative drain duration, longer hospital stays, emergency surgical procedures, and surgeries involving contaminated or clean-contaminated wounds. Patients with prolonged postoperative drains had a markedly higher incidence of SSIs (63.63%). Conclusions: The findings reveal a considerable burden of SSIs in the studied setting, with high infection rates in patients undergoing prolonged drain usage, emergency surgeries, and surgeries on contaminated wounds. Strengthening infection prevention measures, particularly in high-risk cases, and enforcing strict adherence to hygiene and sterilization practices are critical. Enhanced infection surveillance programs and targeted interventions could help reduce SSI rates, improve patient outcomes, and minimize healthcare costs.
Assessment of immunization coverage during COVID-19 pandemic among 12-23 months old children in Sonitpur district under Bihaguri BPHC of Assam
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Banik, S; Baruah, R; Chakraborty, SS.
Background: The longest-lasting decline in childhood vaccination rates in a generation is seen during COVID-19 Pandemic in India. The study aims to analyze the overall scenario of Immunization coverage of 12-23 months children in Sonitpur under sub-centers of Besseria State Dispensary under Bihuguri BPHC during COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: All the children registered with mother and child protection card in villages under Besseria State Dispensary under Bihuguri BPHC, Sonitpur during COVID-19 pandemic were surveyed for a period of two months from May and June 2021. A simple random sampling method of study includes 84 respondents of children in the age group of 12-23 months. Results: A total of 84 respondents were surveyed. All the cases include children between the ages of 12 and 23 months. 96.25% babies received BCG at birth. 80% received OPV 0 dose. Hepatitis B was given to 76.25%. 100% of the babies received 3 dosages of OPV at 6, 10, and 14 weeks, only 21 (26.25%) received PCV 1st dose, 24 (30%) received PCV 2nd dose, 23 (28.75%) received PCV booster dose. 65% of the children between 12 and 23 months old received all the vaccinations. Conclusions: The restriction and the quarantine implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic has hampered the immunization status of the children. The non-availability of vaccines has delayed the immunization status. Comprehensive training and supervision of health workers, increasing awareness regarding immunization sessions, and vaccine preventable disease (VPD) are some of the interventions which could help tackle the issue.
Food addiction among medical college students in Bengaluru city: a cross sectional study
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Soman, MK; Vidya, GS; Shashikal, M.
Background: Food addiction has specific connotations with respect to obesity which often results from the imbalance of food intake and energy expenditure. In countries like India, with relative abundance of food in recent years, and reduction in physical exercise, the rates of obesity have been on the rise. Obesity itself has been associated with the occurrence of metabolic syndrome which becomes a risk factor for diabetes mellitus and dyslipidaemia. This study aimed to assess the proportion of food addiction among medical college students in Bengaluru city. Methods: A descriptive study was conducted over a period of three months. The sampling technique employed was convenient sampling. The study population consisted of undergraduate medical students. The study involved a total of 174 participants. Inclusion criteria for participation included 1st year to 4th year MBBS students. The study tool utilized was the Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS). Results: Out of 174 respondents, the rate of occurrence of food addiction was 27.4%. Persistent desire or repeated unsuccessful attempts to quit was the most common symptom domain endorsed. Food addiction showed statistically significant association with BMI (Body Mass Index). Conclusions: This exploratory study suggests that food addiction may be present in a proportion of young aged medical students. The association of food addiction with higher weight and BMI suggests propensity to develop metabolic syndrome, and the need to evaluate interventions that could modify phenomenological expression of food addiction.
An epidemiological study on menstrual knowledge among school going adolescent girls of 9th-12th standard of northwestern Punjab: a government private school comparison
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Sukriti; Padda, P; Mahajan, S.
Background: Although menstrual knowledge is pivotal in adolescent health education, shaping girl’s understanding of their bodies, reproductive health, and overall well-being but difference is seen in knowledge of government and private school adolescent girls. Therefore, a study was planned to compare menstrual knowledge of government and private school adolescent girls and determine its associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 28 senior secondary schools (14 government and 14 private) of Amritsar district, Punjab from which 1120 adolescent girls studying in class 9th,10th,11th and 12th standard (10 per class per school) were randomly selected. A semi-structured questionnaire was self-administered to collect the information from the study participants and data was analysed using SPSS version 21.0 and chi-square and unpaired t-test was used to establish association. Results: The study reveals that overall mean score for private school goers was found to be 3.6±1.32 which was significantly higher than the government school goers (2.4±1.53). Menstrual knowledge was found to be associated with age, place of residence, type of family, caste, socio-economic status, educational and occupational status of both the parents. Conclusions: Knowledge was found to be better among private in comparison to government school adolescent girls.
Association between attitude and menstrual hygiene management practices among adolescent girls with disabilities in selected schools in Wajir County, Kenya
(Medip Academy, 2024-11) Jama, AA; Mutisya, RK; Njuguna, CW; Matoke, VO; Okenyoru, DS.
Background: Menstruation is the recurrent peeling of the uterine lining that occurs monthly on girls and women of the reproductive age. Many adolescent girls in African countries have poor knowledge regarding menstruation and this is even worse among menstruating girls with disabilities who are faced with a greater challenge as they require private and specific sanitation facilities. The study focused on establishing the association between attitude and menstrual hygiene management practices among adolescent girls with disabilities in selected schools in Wajir County. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted. Census method was used to select respondents where 101 were interviewed. Pretested questionnaires were used to collect data. All necessary research approvals from relevant institutions were obtained as well as consent and assent sought from respondents and guardians where applicable. Data was managed using SPSS version 22.0 software. Results: Most 88.1% of the respondents did not practice menstrual hygiene management. Further results revealed that 98.9% of those who had negative attitude had not practiced menstrual hygiene management. There was a significant statistical association between nature of attitude and practice of MHM (?2=11.009, p*=0.029). Conclusions: About 9 out of 10 adolescents with disabilities in Wajir County did not practice menstrual hygiene management. The nature of attitude towards menstrual hygiene management was significantly associated with practice. The study recommended provision of free sanitary pads by relevant stakeholders to all girls who are living with disabilities and provision of enough washrooms to address privacy issues.
Principal component analysis of clinical, mental health, and behavioral factors in a mixed population: insights for public health strategies
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Utchimahali, S; Kannan, S; Velayutham, K.
Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and mental health disorders set forth substantial public health challenges in Tamil Nadu, India. Formulating targeted therapies requires an understanding of the behavioural, mental health, and clinical variables. Aim was to explore patterns in health outcomes among a mixed population with and without T2DM, focusing on socio-demographic, clinical, and mental health factors using principal component analysis (PCA). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted during April 2020 to March 2021 with 614 participants (307 with T2DM and 307 without diabetes) in Alpha Hospital and Research Centre, a tertiary healthcare centre in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India. Statistical analysis was done using IBM statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 23. Results: PCA discovered nine components from a set of clinical, behavioural, and socio-demographic variables, with a KMO value of 0.915 and Bartlett’s Test of Sphericity showing significant Chi-square (11,932.50, p<0.001). 52.23% of the total variance was explained by the first five components. The clustering of stress, anxiety and depression in mental health components as well as the importance of glycaemic management and physical exercise as metabolic markers were among the key findings. Risky behaviours like smoking and alcohol consumption are exposed to have strong associations with adverse effects on health. Conclusions: This study highlights novel insights on the interactions between clinical, mental health and behavioural aspects among the population of Tamil Nadu. Public health strategies converging on stress reduction, mental health support and chronic disease management are recommended for improved health outcomes.
Arnett’s soft tissue norms in north western Himalayan population: a cephalometric study
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Mahadevan, N; Sood, S; Mahajan, M; Negi, S; Negi, KS.
Background: This study was conducted to establish soft tissue cephalometric norms and compare males and females of north western Himalayan range population with that of soft tissue Arnett’s norms. Methods: The study group comprised of 110 subjects (51 females and 59 males) within age 18-25 years, having class I molar relation with well-balanced faces. The null hypothesis was there will be no statistically significant difference in the soft tissue parameters between the groups. Cephalograms were manually traced and the mean values of various parameters were compared with Arnett’s norms of Caucasian population as well as between males and females of the study group. Results: The overjet, overbite, lip thickness, facial length, maxillary projection and mandibular projection were decreased in the study group when compared to the controls. Statistically significant differences were found in various parameters between males and females of the study group as compared to the control group. Males had increased overjet, increased lower facial height, retrusive maxilla, procumbent lips than females. Conclusions: This study concluded that the norms of Arnett’s Caucasian population cannot be applied to the population of other geographic regions.
An explorative cross-sectional study on breast-feeding practices among children aged 12-23 months residing in a district of northwestern Punjab: an urban-rural comparison
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Kaur, K; Kaur, J; Mahajan, S; Padda, P.
Background: The IYCF guidelines clearly dictates the breastfeeding practices for first six months of life. But, the practical adoption of these recommendations continues to fall short of expectations. Factors like urbanization, infant formula marketing, and maternal employment have contributed to declining exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) rates. Therefore, we planned to conduct this study to assess breastfeeding practices during first 6 months of life and made an urban-rural comparison. Methods: An explorative cross-sectional study was conducted in 2 villages and 2 urban slums, involving 420 mother-child pairs (210 each from rural and urban). A mother and child duo where child was aged between 12-23 months were interviewed. The information pertaining to breastfeeding during first six months were collected on pre-designed, pretested and validated proforma. Data was compiled and analysed using Epi-info 0.7. Results: Out of 420 participants 54% were males and 46% were females. Breastmilk was given to 98% of the study participants with no significant urban-rural difference. However, only 5% of urban and 2% of rural infants started breastfeeding within the first hour after birth. Overall, 46% of infants began breastfeeding two days after birth, with a significantly higher proportion in rural areas (53%) compared to urban areas (39%).74% were exclusively breastfed. Prelacteal feeding was significantly more common in rural areas (87%) than in urban areas (76%). Conclusions: While exclusive breastfeeding rates were relatively good. Significant differences were observed in early breastfeeding initiation and prelacteal feeding in rural and urban area.
A prospective cross-sectional study on epidemiological determinants, vaccine hesitancy and adverse events following anti rabies vaccination in an animal bite
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Kaware, A; Pothipogu, T; Ingle, P; Deshmukh, J.
Background: Rabies is an infectious disease with hundred percent mortality that can be prevented by taking action pre or post exposure to the agent. The individuals’ beliefs, customs and traditions play a major role in any health care practices. In this study we tried to assess the epidemiological determinants, vaccine hesitancy and adverse events following vaccination. Objectives were to study the epidemiological determinants of the individuals with animal bite and to study the vaccine hesitancy and adverse events following vaccination. Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted among the 300 individuals who came with animal bite to the anti-rabies vaccination centre. The study participants were recruited through convenience sampling. Results: Out of 300 participants 102 (34%) were of age group 15-35 years. Males 188 (62.7%) and females 112 (37.3%). The common animal that reported to bite was dog which was seen in 85.7% of study population. Vaccine hesitancy was observed in 16.7% (50). The 83% (249) participants took the ARV vaccination within 24 hours of the animal bite. The most common adverse events following vaccination reported is skin discoloration at the injection site by 53.3% (160). Conclusions: The vaccine should be made available even in the rural, suburban areas. Newer vaccine with better preservatives should be made to prevent adverse events.
Glycaemic durability and compliance among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients from India: results from the companion survey
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Kalra, S; Deshmukh, V; Joshi, A; Agarwal, S; Baruah, MP; Sahay, R.
Background: The COMPANION research survey was conducted to understand glycemic durability and compliance with existing care among type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients in India. Methods: The cross-sectional observational survey enrolled 367 physicians; each physician responded to a questionnaire based on observation of 15 T2DM patients in their clinical practice and overall clinical experience. The survey questionnaire consisted of 6 sections with questions on durability of glycemic control, treatment adherence, patient compliance and time- in-range (TIR). Results: Most physicians agreed that durability of glycemic control was an important factor for better clinical outcomes. More than half of the physicians believed that glycemic control was determined by medication adherence, lifestyle modifications, class of antidiabetic drugs, and duration of diabetes. Along with a weight neutral effect, physicians opined that vildagliptin exhibited reduced risk of hypoglycemia. Stopping medications after feeling better and trouble in swallowing tablets were the two main reasons for medication non-adherence. EAZYGLIDE™ tablet, a fixed-dose combination of vildagliptin plus metformin, was found to improve patient adherence and compliance. In patients with poor TIR, around 76% of physicians recommended dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor therapy. In all, 87% of physicians prescribed ambulatory glucose profile (AGP) to patients with increased risk of hypoglycemia. Conclusion: Appropriate evaluation of glycemic control plays a vital role in the overall management of T2D. EAZYGLIDE™ tablet exhibited improved patient adherence and compliance to therapy owing to its improved features. Patient education about continuous glucose monitoring and AGP and prescription of suitable medications are necessary for enhancing overall clinical outcomes.
Prevalence and determinants of violence against healthcare workers in multiple settings: a cross sectional study
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Jackson, P; Bijoy, H; Gopika, PV; Anoop, HE; Nair, GJ; Jose, F; Reshma, VR; Viswan, L; Mani, SM; Johns, F.
Background: The quality of clinical care hinges on the doctor-patient relationship. The murder of Dr. Vandana Das highlights the urgent need to address violence against healthcare workers (HCWs). This study aimed to ascertain the prevalence of violence among HCWs, examine reporting mechanisms, and comprehend the repercussions of such incidents. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among HCWs at Pushpagiri Medical College Hospital and Taluk headquarters hospital, Pulinkunnu. A semi-structured questionnaire derived from surveys on workplace violence in the health sector by PSI (Public Services International), ILO (International Labour Office), ICN (International Council of Nurses), and WHO was used to measure violence. Results: Among 185 participants, 150 were from private settings and 35 from government settings. In government settings, 14.3% experienced physical violence, and 31.4% faced verbal violence. In private settings, 9.3% encountered physical violence, 39.3% experienced verbal violence, and 2.7% reported sexual harassment. Incidents of physical violence were more frequent among HCWs with 6-10 years of experience and those working with adult patients. Verbal violence was more common among staff working in shifts and with adult and elderly patients. Conclusions: Verbal violence was the most prevalent, affecting 37% of HCWs, often from patients’ relatives or bystanders. Contributing factors included staff shortages, patient non-compliance, long waiting times, communication issues, and work overload. Addressing violence against HCWs requires improved staffing, communication, security measures, and stringent legislation to safeguard HCWs’ well-being and patient care quality.
A study on poor sleep hygiene and obesity among different groups of workers in the petroleum industry located in Andhra Pradesh
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Reddy, SD.
Background: This study explored the relationship between poor sleep hygiene and obesity among workers in the petroleum industry in Andhra Pradesh. Sleep hygiene refers to practices conducive to regular, healthy sleep. Poor sleep hygiene has been linked to health issues, including obesity. Understanding this relationship is crucial for targeted interventions to improve worker health. Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted with 193 tank drivers and 90 office workers (female workers excluded due to small sample size). Demographic data, including age, BMI, and average sleep duration, were collected via self-report questionnaires. Statistical tests, including independent t-tests and Mann-Whitney U statistics, were used to assess significance. Results: A significant association between poor sleep hygiene and obesity was found among petroleum workers. Those reporting shorter sleep duration, irregular sleep schedules, and frequent sleep disturbances were more likely to be obese compared to those with better sleep practices. Shift work and long hours were identified as contributing to poor sleep and increased obesity risk. Conclusions: Promoting healthy sleep habits is essential to reduce obesity among petroleum workers. Interventions such as sleep hygiene education and workplace policies supporting adequate rest may help mitigate obesity risk. Addressing occupational factors like shift work and long hours is vital for improving overall worker well-being.
Effect of cigarette smoking on sleep quality of non-obese male medical students of south Punjab
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Bukhari, SMR; Mehdi, A; Mehdi, H; Nasir, GM; Abbas, E; Safdar, S; Ilyas, M.
Background: Cigarette smoking disrupts sleep patterns. Studies suggest a strong link between sleep quality and academic achievement. This study investigates the impact of smoking on sleep quality and academic performance, informing the importance of smoking cessation strategies. Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among 100 medical students of Nishtar Medical University from June 2023 to March 2024, using a convenient sampling technique. Demographic and anthropometric details were obtained, and academic performance was recorded based on the percentage achieved in the recent professional examination. Sleep quality was assessed by a validated questionnaire; PSQI. SPSS version 27 was utilized for data analysis. Results: Smokers demonstrated a significantly higher PSQI (median 7, IQR 2-13) than non-smokers (median 4, IQR 1-15), p= 0.02. Academic scores were slightly higher in non-smokers (median 73.5, IQR 59.35-81.85) than in smokers (median 69.85, IQR 51-78.5), p= 0.05. In Group 1 (nonsmokers) and Group 2 (smokers), there was a significant negative correlation between PSQI and academic performance (Rho = -0.357, p = 0.011), and (Rho = -0.314, p = 0.026) respectively. Cigarettes smoked per day were also significantly correlated with both PSQI (Rho = 0.331, p = 0.019) and academic performance (Rho = -0.539, p = 0.000). Conclusions: Smokers had poor sleep quality and slightly lower academic scores than non-smokers. Poor sleep quality was strongly tied to lower academic achievement. Students should be informed about the link between cigarette smoking and poor sleep quality, and how that affects academic performance.
Evaluating the quality of life in patients with oral cancer: a central Indian cross-sectional study
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Wath, D; Wadhva, S; Rathod, P; Narlawar, U; Padyal, P; Kumar, M.
Background: Oral cancer significantly impacts patients' quality of life (QoL) due to its associated physical, emotional, and social challenges. This study aimed to assess the QoL of oral cancer patients in Central India. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 210 oral cancer patients from various healthcare institutions in Central India. Participants completed the UW-QOL questionnaire, which evaluates multiple domains, including pain, appearance, chewing, swallowing, speech, anxiety, mood, taste, activity, saliva, recreation, and shoulder function. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze QoL scores and identify the prevalence of significant issues across domains. Results: The findings revealed that shoulder function had the highest mean score (96.71), with 91.9% of participants achieving optimal scores. Saliva function followed (mean score: 83.62), with 56.2% of subjects at the best score. However, pain (mean score: 59.40) was the most significant issue, reported by 55.71% of patients, alongside notable concerns in appearance (32.38%) and anxiety (23.8%). Other domains, including mood and activity, exhibited low mean scores, with fewer than 15% of subjects reporting optimal scores. Conclusions: This study highlights the disparity in QoL among oral cancer patients in Central India, with pain and chewing emerging as significant challenges. The results underscore the need for targeted interventions to address both the physical and psychosocial aspects of care, enhancing the overall QoL for these patients.
Assessment of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding personal protective equipment use among employees in a thermal power station of central India: a cross-sectional study
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Shingnad, S; Wadhva, S; Rathod, P; Narlawar, U; Padyal, P.
Background: Personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial for ensuring work safety in high-risk environments, such as thermal power stations. Proper use of PPE reduces the risk of occupational hazards. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding PPE use among thermal power station employees. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 employees of a thermal power station. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire designed to evaluate KAP towards PPE use. Descriptive statistics, including frequency and percentages, were used for data analysis to summarize participants' responses. Results: The majority 96.8% knows about the types of PPE used. The 82% had a positive attitude towards its use while 60.8% study subjects reported that they consistently wear all relevant PPE at their workplace. Conclusions: The employees had adequate knowledge and attitudes towards PPE, however actual compliance with its use remains suboptimal. Interventions focused on reinforcing PPE usage practices are needed.
Leveraging female partner influence in health interventions: a study on prostate cancer screening uptake among men in rural Kiambu County, Kenya
(Medip Academy, 2024-12) Kimani, PK; Muchiri, J; Nyongesa, MW.
Background: Globally, prostate cancer is the second most common cancer affecting men, with considerably high fatality rates. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a female partner-led brochure method on perception, attitude, and cultural beliefs toward the intention of prostate cancer screening among men in rural Kiambu County, Kenya. Methods: The research adopted a randomized controlled trial design. Multistage sampling was employed in this study. The Chi-square test was used to assess differences in perception, attitude, and cultural beliefs towards intention to undergo prostate cancer screening (PCS) between the control and intervention groups at baseline and end line. Further, data were subjected to structural equation modeling to assess the influence of perception, attitude, and cultural beliefs on PCS intention pre-and post-intervention. Results: The results revealed no significant difference in perception between the control and intervention groups at baseline and end-line. Regarding attitude, there was a 39.8% and 24.7% increase in positive attitudes in the group that used gain-framed and loss-framed brochure methods, respectively, at the end line. In the end, there was a significant reduction in the number of respondents who had fatalistic beliefs, whereby 23.1% and 13.2% of the respondents in the groups’ intervention used gain-framed and loss-framed brochures, respectively. Conclusions: The study recommends the implementation of female partner-led interventions using gain-framed messaging in prostate cancer screening campaigns, as this approach demonstrated superior effectiveness in improving attitudes, reducing fatalism beliefs, and increasing the perceived benefits of screening among men.

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