Indian Journal of Community & Family Medicine

Permanent URI for this collection

https://imsear.searo.who.int/handle/123456789/158070

Editor: Dr Sonu H Subba
ISSN: 2395-2113

Frequency: Biannually

Language: English

Open Access Peer-reviewed journal

Web site: www.aiimsbhubaneswar.edu.in/ijcfm.

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 114

Linking infant and young child feeding practices to Z-scores: Unraveling the impact on childhood stunting and wasting
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-06) Gosalia, Vibha Vinodkumar; Jasani, Krishna Mahendrabhai; Misra, Late Shobha V.
Introduction: Poor infant feeding practices predispose children to nutritional disorders which may persist into early childhood with life-long consequences. We aimed to find out prevalence of malnutrition among children aged less than six years and to assess infant and young children feeding practices and their impact on malnutrition. Methods: An analytic cross-sectional study was conducted between March 2021 and May 2022 among children up to six years of age registered in the Anganwadi centers of Rajkot district. Using the formula n = Z2pq/e2, a sample size of 504 was estimated, including 10% nonresponders. Samples were drawn using a multistage simple random sampling method. The z scores related to the anthropometric measurements were estimated using the World Health Organization Anthro 2011 software. We reported prevalence of different types of malnutrition and infant and young child feeding practices. A logistic regression was used to identify significant factors for stunting and wasting (P < 0.05). Results: The mean age of the children was 32.43 months (SD 18.7 months). The prevalence of stunting and wasting was found 36.7% and 30.5%, respectively. The prevalence of prelacteal feeding practices was 72.8%. Less than one-fourth (21.4%) of children were exclusively breastfed and 77.9% of the children received complementary feeding at appropriate age. The binary logistic regression model showed that stunted growth was strongly associated with exclusive breastfeeding and complementary foods’ introduction at the appropriate age. Conclusion: As compared to national, state, and district averages, the prevalence of wasting was remarkably higher among children included in the study. In addition, the study underscores the disturbingly high prevalence of prelacteal feeding practices, which can have a detrimental effect on the health of newborns.
Occupational injuries and health-seeking behavior of informal sector waste collection workers in Nellore, India
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-06) Chinthapatla, Sai Divya; Tiwari, Rajnarayan Ramshankar
Introduction: Waste collection workers are exposed to occupational injuries at every step in the process of waste collection and disposal, from the point of collection at homes, during transportation, and at the sites of recycling or disposal. This study was undertaken to assess the prevalence of injuries among municipal waste collection workers and their health-seeking behavior for the injuries. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 422 workers from randomly selected 20 wards in four zones of Nellore. The information regarding sociodemographic, occupational, and injury characteristics were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire by conducting a face-to-face interview with each of the study participants. Results: Two hundred and four (48.3%) workers suffered from injury in the past 12 months. A shorter duration of the job, a lack of safety training, and a lack of awareness about the risk of injury on the job were significantly associated with the occurrence of injuries. The health-seeking behavior was found to be poor, with only 40.7% of those who suffered injury and 30.6% of overall workers preferring to approach any health-care facility for the treatment of wounds. Conclusion: The informal sector waste collection workers are at risk of injuries while pursuing their occupation. The health seeking behavior was found to be poor among them.
Building healthy foundations: Screening for 4 D’s (defects at birth, diseases, deficiencies, and development delays) among under-five children under the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram program in Bengaluru, South India
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-06) Deepthi, R.; Siraja, Ameenah Anwar Hussain; Santhosh, Gokul; Vinaya, M.
Introduction: The 1st 2000 days of a child’s life from conception to five years of age are the most crucial days for early childhood development. The Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) is an ongoing screening screening program aims to screen the children not only in these crucial years but until they are 18 years of age and routinely refers them to higher centers for further management. Our study aimed to determine the 4 Ds – defects, deficiency, disease, and disability for children under five years of age, screened under RBSK. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in one rural and two urban Primary Health Centers (PHCs) under the field practice area of government medical college in Bengaluru, South India. All the children registered under the anganawadi centers of the selected PHCs were included. Anthropometric measurements including weight, height, and mid upper-arm circumference were collected. Data was also collected from RBSK reports. Results: Among the 760 children screened, 41.6% deficiencies, 2.6% childhood diseases, and 0.3% disabilities and zero (0) defects were detected. Conclusion: The reporting of deficiencies was substantial (41.6%) under the RBSK program. But, the reporting of developmental delay and defects was not regular and was very low. To enhance its effectiveness, strategies include improving infrastructure and resources, strengthening screening and early detection through trained health-care workers, and standardized tools. Capacity building and training for health-care professionals are essential, as is community engagement through awareness campaigns and collaboration with local organizations.
Socioclinical risk factors for cervical dysplasia and presence of human papillomavirus among women attending a tertiary care teaching hospital of Central Odisha
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-06) Ashe, Swetaleena; Nanda, Saumya; Rattan, Roma; Behera, Tapas Ranjan
Introduction: Carcinoma cervix being the second-most common gynecological malignancy in India contributes nearly 14% of all cancers in females. Cervical dysplasia and presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA are the two most important factors for developing cervical cancer. Hence, our study aims to be a flag bearer to raise the awareness for cervical screening with the main objective (i) to estimate the magnitude and distribution of cervical dysplasia among the women of 21–65 years and (ii) to find association between different socio-clinical risk factors and cervical dysplasia and HPV infection among the study subjects. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study carried out in a tertiary care hospital of Central Odisha, with a sample size of 176. Purposive sampling was done. Predesigned pretested questionnaire along with Pap smear and endocervical smear sample for HPV determination were used for data collection. Results: Nearly 62% of women suffered from cervical dysplasia. Women aged ?35 years were found to have nearly thrice the risk of having cervical dysplasia. Nearly 20% of women tested positive for HPV DNA and these women were found to be 11 times more prone for developing cervical dysplasia compared to women tested negative for HPV DNA. Conclusion: Women with repeated genital infection with HPV and aged more than 35 years were more susceptible to cervical dysplasia. Those with early age at menarche, itching per vaginum, postcoital bleeding, and postmenopausal bleeding, etc., had a significant risk for developing cervical dysplasia. Hence, such symptomatic women should be made aware to undergo screening for cervical cancer at the earliest.
Vaccination equity: Exploring immunization coverage for selected vaccines in urban Bengaluru’s elderly community
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-06) Sangeetha, M. D.; Deepthi, R.; Menon, P. K. Sreenath; Veeresappa, D K
Introduction: Globally, the proportion of elderly individuals is steadily increasing, posing significant challenges for health-care systems. Vaccination plays a crucial role in preventing vaccine-preventable diseases and associated morbidity and mortality in the elderly. In India, there is no national immunization schedule dedicated to the elderly group. This study aimed to explore the vaccination coverage for selected vaccines, namely pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, Influenza, and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), among the elderly residing in urban Bengaluru. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between January and March 2023. Data were collected from 132 elderly participants living in three wards of Rajajinagar, Bengaluru. A structured questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic data, health conditions, and vaccination status. The data were analyzed using EPI data 3.1 Software, and the Chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test were used to assess the association of demographic variables with vaccine intake. Results: The results showed that vaccination uptake for influenza and pneumococcal vaccines was nil, while for COVID-19 vaccines, 4.5% of participants had not taken any dose, 6.8% had taken the first dose, 57.6% had taken the second dose, and 31.1% had taken the booster dose. Sociodemographic analysis revealed significant associations between vaccine uptake and variables such as age, socioeconomic status (below the poverty line card holder), and body mass index. Conclusion: The low uptake of vaccines in the elderly population highlights the need for specialized strategies and initiatives to increase vaccination coverage. The study recommends suitable measures to improve vaccination coverage among elderly, creating awareness among healthcare professionals and the general population, and enhancing vaccine accessibility and availability to promote healthy aging in India.
Remission of type 2 diabetes mellitus through intensive lifestyle modification in ambulatory setting
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-12) Antony, Annu; Behera, Priyamadhaba; Patro, Binod Kumar; Taywade, Manish
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a widespread chronic condition often influenced by a complex interplay of factors. We present a remarkable case of a 54-year-old man diagnosed with T2DM in February 2016, whose journey sheds light on the potential for T2DM remission through lifestyle modifications. Remarkably, at the time of diagnosis, he displayed elevated glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels at 11.6% alongside extreme work-related stress, as evidenced by a Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS) score of 27. Following a structured treatment plan, including pharmacological therapy and lifestyle changes, the patient demonstrated good glycemic control over 2 years. However, what makes this case truly exceptional is his decision to discontinue all medications against medical advice in October 2018. In this period, he continued to focus on lifestyle adjustments, including exercise, diet, and addressing the root cause of his stress. Crucially, the patient’s commitment to stress management and lifestyle modifications had a profound impact on his health. Through meticulous cross-verified testing at the All India Institute of Medical Science, Bhubaneswar, this case reveals substantial improvements in HbA1c levels, from 11.6% to 5.3% and a significant reduction in stress levels (DASS score from 27 to 12). Corresponding reductions were also observed in fasting blood sugar and postprandial blood sugar levels. Furthermore, microalbuminuria, a complication associated with diabetes, exhibited signs of reversal. These findings suggest that T2DM and its associated complications can be effectively managed and even reversed in certain cases through lifestyle modifications, underscoring the intricate link between mental well-being and physiological outcomes.
Borrowing, loss of income and related sociodemographic factors in post-traumatic stress disorder in COVID-19 patients: A cross-sectional study from a government hospital in Mumbai, India
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-12) Bhondve, Amit; Tilak, Shruti Vijay; Sudarson, Nived G.; More, Shermeen Rajesh; Saraf, Prashant Harish; Singh, Shreyansh Dinesh; Lele, Eeshwari Vinay; Shah, Ritu Mohit; Shah, Kavya Amitabh; Mehra, Diya Padam
Introduction: Socioeconomic and related demographic characteristics may contribute to psychological distress following hospitalization with COVID-19. Financial strain experienced during the hospital stay may be associated with a heightened risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Material and Methods: The present study aimed to assess the prevalence and socioeconomic correlates of PTSD among patients previously hospitalized with COVID-19 in a government hospital in Mumbai, India, through a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study design. Patients were contacted through telephonic interviews 3 months following discharge. The questionnaire included demographic and socioeconomic details in relation with COVID-19 hospitalization and the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5). Results: Only (6.7%) patients received a provisional diagnosis of PTSD, while 12/89 (13.5%) were classified as having subthreshold PTSD. 10/89 (11.2%) scored ?31 on the PCL 5 and had probable PTSD. 10/89 (11.2%) scored ?31 on the PCL?5. On bivariate analyses, being unmarried or divorced or separated (P = 0. 037), having children who were minors (P = 0. 002), traveling from outside the state for hospitalization (P < 0.001), borrowing (P = 0.002), or loss of income (P = 0.028) due to hospitalization were significantly associated with subthreshold PTSD. On multivariable analysis, borrowing (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 9.45, 95% CI 1.08–82.72) and traveling from outside the state (AOR 35.75, 95% CI 1.46–875.45, P = 0.028) retained significance for subthreshold PTSD. Conclusion: Socioeconomic factors may contribute to PTSD burden in previously hospitalized COVID-19 patients. This points to a need for mental health screening and economic relief measures in financially vulnerable patients.
Exploring hematopoietic stem cell awareness and engagement among healthcare professionals: A cross-sectional survey
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-12) Mishra, Vikash Chandra; Chandra, Dinesh; Raina, Anoushka; Raina, Vimarsh
Introduction: Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a crucial treatment for various blood disorders. However, the scarcity of matched related donors has led to the establishment of stem cell donor databases, commonly known as stem cell registries. These registries aim to streamline the identification of unrelated volunteer stem cell donors for matched unrelated donor HSCT. This study specifically aims to assess the level of knowledge and engagement among healthcare professionals in Delhi National Capital Region (NCR) regarding hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) donation. Material and Methods: The cross-sectional observational study involved 240 healthcare professionals was conducted in the Delhi. Results: The study findings indicate that the level of awareness about HSC and transplants among healthcare professionals was 44.25 and 40%, respectively, revealing a substantial knowledge gap in this field. Surprisingly, none of the participants reported prior experience with stem cell donation. However, a noteworthy 70.4% expressed a willingness to be part of the stem cell registry. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive education and awareness initiatives, especially targeting healthcare professionals, to bridge the knowledge gap and boost volunteer stem cell donor registrations for the benefit of patients requiring HSCT. The results serve as a foundation for fostering a more informed and engaged community in the field of HSCs, underscoring the importance of proactive measures to enhance knowledge and participation.
Knowledge and awareness about biomedical waste segregation and disposal among medical and paramedical students at a tertiary care hospital in Chennai
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-06) Abinaya, V.; Devi, V. Kalpana; Sivaranjani, P.; Ananthi, B.
Introduction: Wastes produced by health-care facilities are unique in terms of generation, composition, treatment, and disposal when compared to other general wastes. Inappropriate handling of biomedical waste (BMW) led to several health risks from sharps injuries, the spread of infections, and the release of toxic substances into the environment. Not many studies throw insight into the difference in knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) across medical and paramedical students related to BMW segregation and disposal. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the knowledge and awareness levels regarding BMW segregation and disposal among medical and paramedical students at a tertiary care hospital in Chennai, India. Methods: A structured questionnaire was administered to a sample of 632 participants, including medical (3rd and 4th years) and paramedical students. The questionnaire assessed their KAP related to BMW management. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data, and a comparison was made between medical and paramedical students using appropriate statistical tests. Results: The results revealed that medical students (3rd and 4th years) exhibited better KAP in BMW management than paramedical students. Medical students demonstrated a more comprehensive understanding of BMW segregation, disposal methods, and associated health risks. They also displayed a higher level of awareness regarding the importance of proper BMW management for environmental and public health protection. Conclusion: Our findings emphasize the need to strengthen educational interventions targeting paramedical students to enhance their understanding of proper BMW management practices.
Antimicrobial resistance: A looming threat to public health and global well-being
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-06) Deori, Chinmoyee; Sonowal, Tonushyam; Das, Monalisha
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global issue that transcends borders and affects countries at all income levels. Various contributing factors include limited access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene for both humans and animals; inadequate infection and disease prevention and control in households, health-care facilities, and farms; restricted access to high-quality and affordable vaccines, diagnostics, and medications; insufficient awareness and knowledge; and a lack of enforcement of relevant legislation. People in low-resource settings and vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected by both the causes and consequences of AMR. The identification and subsequent incorporation of antimicrobial agents into clinical medicine marked a significant milestone in 20th-century medical achievements, fundamentally transforming the management of bacterial diseases. Nevertheless, the gradual rise of antibiotic-resistant bacterial populations, stemming from the inappropriate usage, misapplication, and unconditional abuse of antibiotics, has evolved into a substantial global public health challenge. Today, different mechanisms of bacterial resistance have been reported in almost all the present antibiotics on the market. The international community has been striving to address and recognize AMR as a global alarming situation, as considered by the World Health Organization as well as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The unrestrained utilization of antibiotics at public and commercial levels has invigorated the evolution of multi-drug resistant microbiota across the globe, leading to an elevated mortality rate due to microbial infections. This review paper explored the inception and resistance genes, provides a comprehensive overview of global antimicrobial resistance, analyzes factors promoting its dissemination, discusses control strategies, examines control challenges, and underscores the ramifications of an inability to effectively contain antimicrobial resistance in bacteria, effectively.
Cowden syndrome: Familial presentation and genetic insights
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-12) Shashidhara, K. C.; Yenamala, Keerthi; Nachu, Prajval Reddy; Prajwal, L. K.; Chukkapalli, Sai Surya
Cowden syndrome (CS), primarily driven by PTEN gene mutations, leads to aberrant cell proliferation and presents with characteristic manifestations including multiple hematomas, hamartomatous polyps, and trichilemmomas. Beyond these, patients face elevated risks of breast, thyroid, and endometrial tumors. While PTEN mutations predominate, other genes such as KILLIN, SDH B/D, ?????, and AK1 contribute to a subset of cases. Here, we present the familial case of CS, underscoring its genetic complexity and clinical implications.
Mucocele of the appendix: A comprehensive case report and literature review
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-12) Neog, Bhaskar Jyoti; Gupta, Subodh; Rastogi, V. K.; Passi, Paras
Appendiceal mucocele, a rare condition characterized by the accumulation of mucus in the appendix, presents a diagnostic challenge due to its nonspecific clinical features. We present the case of a 60-year-old female with recurrent right lower quadrant abdominal pain, nausea, and anorexia, suggestive of appendicular origin. Abdominal ultrasound revealed a hypoechoic cystic mass, prompting further investigation with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which confirmed an inflamed appendix. Exploratory laparotomy revealed a retroperitoneal cavity containing mucous gelatinous material, indicative of a mucocele. Histopathological examination confirmed extensive mucosal sloughing, neutrophilic infiltrate, lymphoma cells, and muciphages, along with areas of dystrophic calcification and fibrosis. The patient recovered postoperatively and remained symptom-free during follow-up. Appendiceal mucocele poses a diagnostic challenge due to its variable presentation and resemblance to other abdominal pathologies. Radiological imaging plays a crucial role in diagnosis, with abdominal ultrasound and MRI aiding in preoperative evaluation. Surgical resection remains the cornerstone of management, with laparotomy preferred to avoid mucocele rupture.
Clinical and laboratory profile and its outcome in scrub typhus-positive acute febrile illness cases in the Pediatric Department of BRD Medical College, Gorakhpur
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-12) Chaudhary, Anamika; Sharma, Bhoopendra; Pandey, Ashok Kumar; Singh, Priyanka
Background: A common cause of acute febrile illness in India is scrub typhus, a zoonosis caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi. It is a reemerging cause of acute undifferentiated fever in India and around the world. It was previously thought to be a seasonal disease occurring mainly in rural areas, but cases are now frequently detected in urban areas outside the monsoon season. This study determined the prevalence of scrub typhus and investigated the clinical and laboratory characteristics of scrub typhus-positive AFI cases and their outcomes. Material and Methods: The hospital based cross-sectional study included rapid tests for malaria parasites, scrub typhus immunoglobulin M (IgM) (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), typhoid IgM, and dengue IgM. Patients underwent the required investigations, such as cerebrospinal fluid examination. Results: Seventy-two (37.1%) of the 194 AFI patients were scrub typhus positive. The male-to-female ratio was 0.8:1. The most common symptom among the 72 scrub typhus-positive AFI patients was loose stools (61.1%), followed by vomiting (59.7%), abdominal pain (52.8%), headache (30.6%), swelling (13.9%), cramps (13.9%), and rash (11.1%). About 69.7% of rural land is scrub typhus positive. Fifty-four (75.0%) patients had thrombocytopenia, whereas hyperbilirubinemia was noted in 7 (9.7%) cases. Impaired renal function was noted in 9 (12.5%) cases. Hypocalcemia was reported in 25 (36.7%) patients, hyponatremia in 40 (55.6%) cases, and hypokalemia in 2 (2.8%) cases. Conclusion: Scrub typhus is common, accounting for a third of AFI cases. It is more common in rural and female-dominated areas. A child admitted with AFI with hepatosplenomegaly, lymphadenopathy, and anemia with thrombocytopenia must be evaluated for scrub typhus.
A study of epidemiological determinants and quality of life in physically differently abled persons attending physical medicine and rehabilitation center in a Metropolitan city
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-12) Katre, Rajesh; Sangam, Rohan; Solanki, Mridula; Rawat, Shalini
Background: The quality of life (QOL) among individuals with physical disabilities is a critical and multifaceted aspect of well being that encompasses the various dimensions of their lived experiences. Aims and Objectives: The present study was undertaken to understand the epidemiology and QOL and factors affecting it among people living with physical disability. Material and Methods: It was a cross sectional and observational study conducted among beneficiaries attending physical medicine and rehabilitation center in a metropolitan city. The sample size was calculated to be 177, and participants were enrolled using the convenient sampling method. The World Health Organization WHO BREF scale was used to assess QOL. SPSS software version 21.0 and Microsoft Excel were used to analyze the data. Results: It was observed that most of the participants were unemployed (52.5%) and belonged to middle class (class 3) (34.5%) of the B.G Prasad Socioeconomic Scale. 52.5% have had disability for more than 20 years, with the major cause of disability being infective etiology (44.4%) followed by traumatic (27.1%) and congenital (15.8%). The disability was majorly seen in the lower limb (61.6%), which caused hinderance in walking in majority of the participants (90.1%). 57.6% reported that they had a good QOL, 67.8% were satisfied with their health and mean scores for physical and environmental domain were 68.05 and 50.85. Conclusion: Education, employment, and involvement of spine had a significant association with overall QOL. Disability had a profound effect on the QOL; environmental, social, and psychological were the most affected domains observed. Employment and education spinal involvement had a significant impact on QOL. Infective etiology was the most common cause of disability, while lower limb was the most affected body part.
Postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device – What influences its use? A qualitative study from Bengaluru urban district, India
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-12) Thattil, Anissa Mary Thomas; Ramesh, Naveen; Sunny, Sobin; Chakraborty, Sagnik; Gerard, Sukesh; Scaria, Francis Joseph; Siddaiah, Archana
Introduction: The postpartum family planning program was introduced in 2009, and free services are being provided by the Government of India. However, the unmet need for family planning continues to be high in Karnataka (6.5%) with the unmet need for spacing at 3.8%. This may be due to a lack of understanding of the cultural, religious, and socioenvironmental factors in determining the utilization of postpartum intrauterine contraceptive devices (PPIUCDs) services. This study therefore attempted to understand factors which influence the acceptance of PPIUCD from the user, provider, and community perspectives in rural Bengaluru. Material and Methods: A qualitative study was conducted in the Government Taluk Hospital, Anekal, Bengaluru Urban District, Karnataka, India. Two focus group discussions and six key informant interviews were conducted, and data analysis was done using a thematic framework approach. The primary themes identified in our study were “client dependent,” “healthcare dependent,” and “solutions to the identified barriers.” Results: Two novel domains that emerged from the data analysis were that of “fear of side effects” and “family dynamics.” The attitude toward and use of PPIUCD was found to be the result of an interplay between the following: educational status, religion, misconceptions, fear of side-effects, poor reproductive autonomy, male child preference, increased client involvement, increasing women empowerment, and knowledgeable healthcare providers. Conclusion: The determinants of PPIUCD acceptance function at individual, family, and community levels. These need to be tackled to address the unmet need for family planning and spacing. Accurate information must be provided while simultaneously addressing the fears and misconceptions of clients.
Epidemiological assessment of essential life skills and its determinants among adolescents in an urban slum area
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-12) Bose, Kritanjali Sahu; Lavangare, Sujata; Bose, Aritra
Introduction: Life skills encompass a broad spectrum of psychological and interpersonal abilities essential for leading healthy and productive lives. This holistic approach, addressing knowledge, attitude, and skills, aims to modify behavior and foster balanced development. Life skills are crucial for supporting the mental health and competency of young individuals facing the challenges of adolescence – a transitional phase between childhood and adulthood. Material and Methods: This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in a slum in Mumbai, where 158 adolescents (10–19 years) were selected by systematic random sampling. The sociodemographic profile and life skills were assessed among the study participants. The questionnaire for the measurement of life skills consisted of five domains: Time management, communication, leadership, goal setting, and coping skills. Results: Results revealed that skills of time management, goal setting, acquiring coping skills, and global life skills scores improved with the age significantly. Females exhibited better time management, which correlated with overall life skills. The literacy levels of parents influenced adolescents’ communication and leadership skills. Conclusions: Recognizing the nuanced influences on life skills development, interventions should address individual capacities and broader socioenvironmental factors. By fostering comprehensive life skills, interventions can contribute to the holistic well-being and positive development of adolescents facing diverse challenges in their transitional phase between childhood and adulthood.
Age, gender, and regional variations in stroke epidemiology in India: A systematic review and meta-analysis
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-06) Joseph, Jaison; Varkey, Biji P.; Varghese, Abin; Mathews, Elezebeth; Dhandapani, Manju; Sharma, Suresh K.; Shah, Saleena; Narasimha, Venkata Lakshmi; Renjith, Vishnu; Dhandapani, Sivashanmugam; Manjula, G. B.
Introduction: There is a wide variation in stroke epidemiology in India due to the differences in culture and the variability in the distribution of risk factors across the states. The present meta-analysis provides a pooled estimate of age, gender, and region-based stroke epidemiology in India based on epidemiological transition level (ETL) groups described in the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study (2016). Methods: We searched in PubMed and Google Scholar, and relevant studies published till February 2022 were included. Observational studies conducted in the Indian setting were included and global or Indian studies that exclusively estimated the prevalence, incidence, or mortality data among patients with stroke were excluded. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist was used for the risk-of-bias assessment and publication bias was evaluated by funnel plots and Egger’s test. The R software was used to perform this meta-analysis; I2 statistics were calculated to measure heterogeneity among studies. Results: We included 58 studies in the systematic review, and after quality assessment, 47 studies were finally included for meta-analysis. The sample sizes of the included studies ranged from 40 to 4989 and the mean age of the participants ranged from 31.7 (Standard Deviation, SD-7.4) to 70.5 (SD-10.7). The burden of stroke was estimated based on the ETL groups described in the GBD Study 2016. We found a male preponderance (64.5%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 62.5%-68.3%) in the gender distribution of strokes and 75.2% (95% CI: 68.7%-81.7%) of the stroke occurred above the age of 50 years. Ischemic stroke is the predominant subtype of stroke in India, with a higher proportion in the middle ETL region (74.0%; 95% CI: 65.1%-81.3%) as compared to those with low ETL (67.2%; 95% CI: 49.9%-80.8%) and high ETL regions (67.5%; 95% CI: 57.0%-76.4%).Conclusion: There was a significant heterogeneity among the included studies. Majority of strokes occurred in the age group of more than 50 years with a male preponderance. Ischemic stroke was the most common type of stroke with its proportion varying from 67% to 74% depending on ETL.
Knowledge among medical students about the usage of menstrual cup in a medical college in Central Karnataka
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-12) Ramanna, Pavithra
Introduction: Menstruation is the normal process that millions of girls and women around the world undergo every month. Good hygienic practices during menstruation prevent infections and odors during the menstrual period. Menstrual cups are safe and there are no health risks found due to their usage. The aim of the study was to determine the knowledge on the usage of menstrual cup among medical students. Material and Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted among all female medical students in Basaveshwara Medical College and Hospital, Chitradurga belonging to the age group of 18–25 years. All medical graduate girl students were given a questionnaire. About 255 students participated in the study and final data were analyzed into numbers and percentages. Results: Among the study participants, 45 (17.6%) of them had no idea about the menstrual cup. Most of the students did not have a clear knowledge on the material used in manufacturing of menstrual cup, time to empty the cup, and the method of its sterilization. Only 4 (1.6%) of them used a menstrual cup. Conclusion: Menstrual cups have many advantages like being nontoxic, eco-friendly and cost effective but their usage is uncommon in India as there is lack of knowledge, awareness and the widespread use of sanitary pads. Education and sensitization regarding the usage of menstrual cup is required among the population. There is lack of knowledge and misconception regarding the menstrual cup which should be addressed for better menstrual health and practice.
A study on knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding biomedical waste management among health-care providers at a tertiary care hospital, Kolkata
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-12) Alagesan, Inba Raja; De, Rajesh; Basu, Mita; Mitra, Sayeli; Sardar, Jadab Chandra
Introduction: Proper biomedical waste (BMW) disposal and its management are essential among health-care workers as it causes serious health and environmental hazards. Objectives of the study were to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding BMW management among health-care providers and to determine the factors associated with, at a tertiary care hospital in Kolkata, India. Material and Methods: A study was done among 256 health-care providers at a tertiary care hospital who were actively involved in handling BMWs. A pretested, self-administered questionnaire on knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding BMW management was used. Structured, nonparticipant observation was carried out using the Kayakalp assessment tool in the 20 BMW handling checkpoints. Statistical analysis was done using the SPSS version 20.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, Illinois, USA). Results: Among 256 health-care workers, 44.9% had adequate knowledge regarding BMW management and the doctors had a higher median score. 37.5% had positive attitudes and the laboratory technologists had higher median scores. 45.3% had satisfactory practice regarding BMW management and both the doctors and nurses had higher median scores. The housekeeping staff had the poorest knowledge, attitude, and practice of BMW management. Conclusion: Regular certified training among health-care staff and intense quality assessment by the waste management committee can improve BMW management overall.
Perceptions of postgraduate medical students and guides about dissertation: A qualitative study
(Wolters Kluwer – Medknow, 2024-12) Domple, Vijay Kishanrao; Kasdekar, Pankaj Motilal; Soyam, Gajanan Charandas; Joge, Umesh S.; Khakse, Gautam Marotrao; Solanke, Rahulkumar Anil
Introduction: Health research during medical training is essential to encourage critical thinking and reasoning abilities and a positive attitude among postgraduate (PG) students toward scientific research throughout their medical careers. However, all may not be inclined toward research. Therefore, the present study was formulated to understand the perceptions of PG medical students and guides about dissertations. Material and Methods: The current qualitative study was conducted at a tertiary care center in Central India between December 2022 and January 2023. A total of 12 participants (9 PG students and 3 PG guides) were selected by the purposive sampling method. The Institutional Ethics Committee approved the study. For the in-depth interview with audio recording, the interview guide was used. The data were coded, and thematic analysis was done using the Microsoft Word and Excel. Results: All participants reported that PG dissertations should be an essential element in the PG curriculum, except two who raised the issue of compulsion. While participants mentioned the positive perspectives about the dissertations, like the development of research skills and expertise, they also pointed out negative perspectives, like single-topic exploration only and minimal connection to clinical practice. Many students were confused, stressed, and disoriented at the beginning of the dissertation. No separate time, patient workload, language barrier, and a lack of academic writing skills and resources were the challenges experienced. The role of a PG guide is indispensable in the process of the dissertation. They felt that the final submission of the dissertation should be at the end of the 2nd year. Conclusion: Many participants believed that the dissertation should be an essential component of the PG curriculum. The role of the PG guide is indispensable in the dissertation process. The final submission of the dissertation should be at the end of the 2nd year.

Browse

Recent Submissions