National Journal of Community Medicine

Permanent URI for this collection

https://imsear.searo.who.int/handle/123456789/149650

Executive Editor: Dr. Prakash Patel

ISSN: 0976-3325(Print)

Frequency: 4 issues a year

Language: English

Open Access Peer-reviewed journal

Web site: https://www.njcmindia.org/home/

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Now showing 1 - 20 of 445

Quality of Life Among Old Age Homes Residents in Gujarat, India: Evidence from a Sequential Explanatory Mixed Method Study
(Medsci Publications, 2025-07) Patel, MR; Singh, US
Introduction: The concept of old age homes is developing in India. For many elderlies, moving into old age homes becomes their only viable choice. Objectives: To assess the quality of life of the elderly living in old age homes and to explore stakeholders' perspectives on running these facilities. Methods: It was a sequential explanatory mixed methods study design consisting of a quantitative (Survey) followed by a qualitative phase. In the first phase, residents of old age homes were selected using a purposive sampling method. To evaluate their quality of life, an Old People Quality of Life questionnaire was used. In the second phase, six key informant interviews were conducted to explore their perspectives. Quantitative data was analyzed using bivariate and multiple regression techniques, while qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis. Results: The standardized mean score of quality of life of 102 elderlies was 70.3(10.3), with the lowest score for the social domain 56.2(13.5). Multiple regression analysis showed that quality of life was significantly influenced by education level, duration of stay and source of income. There was lack of recreational activities. Conclusion: Residents who were getting pension experienced a better QOL. Lowest score in social domain explained by qualitative finding.
Resurgence of Mumps in India: A Call to Reintroduce MMR into the Immunization Program
(Medsci Publications, 2025-07) Chellamuthu, L; Jenisha, A
The recent rise in mumps outbreaks across several Indian states exposes a critical gap in the national immunization framework specifically, the absence of mumps vaccination in the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP). As mumps is currently excluded from the India's Universal Immunization Program and only the MR vaccine is administered, millions of children remain susceptible to this vaccine-preventable disease. In accordance with World Health Organization (WHO) and Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP) guidelines, this communication urges policymakers to reintroduce the MMR vaccine into India’s Universal Immunization Programme (UIP).
Factors Predicting Treatment Adherence Among Patients with Hypertension: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
(Medsci Publications, 2025-07) Win, T; Thanaslip, S; Polsook, R.
Background: Through the increased prevalence of hypertension, the notch of following the prescribed anti-hypertensive treatment among these populations is very inadequate, and the unsatisfactory disease control rate. This study systematically reviewed and identified their characteristics of the predicting factors on it and their magnitude. Methodology: By the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology, the included articles were critically appraised and assessed their certainty of evidence with the GRADE guidelines. Four databases (Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and WILEY online) and the keywords of treatment adherence” OR “compliance” AND “determinants” OR "factors" OR "predictors" OR “influences” AND "hypertension" OR “high blood pressure” were applied. The integrated effect sizes (z), 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and I2 index were reported. Findings: Descriptive correlational and longitudinal designs were included in total 20 studies. The significant predictors were demographic, intrapersonal, interpersonal, condition-related, and health system-related ones. Patients’ self-efficacy, perception, co-morbidity and social support produced the most significant effects. Additionally, various adherence levels to treatment were reported as low to acceptable. Conclusion: The hypertension society should strengthen their adherence practices by clear instructions and guidance, especially for multimorbid ones, by improving their self-efficacy and perception on their disease, building social support and virtuous patient-provider communication.
Practices and Determinants of Household Solid Waste Management: A Cross-Sectional Study in Urban Karnataka, South India
(Medsci Publications, 2025-07) Abhiharshan, SB; Samudyatha, UC.
Introduction: Scientific and sustainable household solid waste management is crucial in achieving SDG 12 (responsible consumption) and SDG 3 (good health). Poor waste practices can harm both the environment and people's health. Objective: To assess the solid waste management practices and its association with sociodemographic profile of households in a selected urban locality of Kolar, in South India. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to June 2023, covering 318 consecutively sampled urban households, using a validated semi-structured questionnaire to collect data. Results: The majority (28.6%) of households were from the lower middle socioeconomic class. Food and kitchen waste, plastics, and paper waste were the most common types of waste generated. Sanitary napkins/pads were disposed of with plastic waste without segregation. Closed containers were used for wet waste storage in 64.8% of households. Households with children under 5 years were more likely to use closed containers (OR: 2.04, 95% CI: 1.18-3.50). Sanitary disposal of waste was practiced by 64.4% of households, with higher odds in households located along main roads. Conclusion: This study found high waste segregation rates but poor sanitary waste management so this recommends a multi-faceted approach to improve waste management. Urban governance should adopt a circular waste management approach to improve accountability and resource efficiency.
Comparison of Thyroid Function in Lead Poisoned Patients and Healthy Individuals in North India
(Medsci Publications, 2025-07) Maini, Jindal, N; Gupta, VK; Bansal, E; Dhingra, M; Singh, S; Ghosh, A.
Background: Lead remains a pervasive environmental toxicant in India, with emerging evidence linking it to endocrine disruption. Its potential effect on thyroid function remains unclear, with inconsistent findings across studies. This study aimed to evaluate the association between blood lead concentration (BLC) and thyroid hormone levels in a North Indian population. Methods: This retrospective study included 237 patients from Punjab who underwent simultaneous testing for BLC and thyroid hormones between January 2022 and December 2023. Patients were grouped by BLC (<10, 10–25, >25 µg/dL), and those with known thyroid disease or on thyroid-altering medications were excluded. BLC and thyroid hormones (fT3, fT4, TSH) were measured using validated instruments (LeadCare II, Roche Elecsys). Results: Group 3 (BLC >25 µg/dL) had significantly higher fT4 levels (19.26 ± 4.95 pmol/L) and lower TSH levels (2.19 ± 1.77 µIU/L) compared to Group 1 (fT4: 16.26 ± 6.65 pmol/L; TSH: 3.60 ± 4.59 µIU/L; p <0.05). No statistically significant differences were observed in fT3 values between the groups (p = 0.513). Regression analysis showed a positive association between BLC and fT4 and a negative association with TSH. These findings suggest a trend toward subclinical hyperthyroid features in individuals with elevated lead levels. Conclusion: Elevated BLC is associated with altered thyroid function, notably increased fT4 and decreased TSH concentrations, even in the absence of overt thyroid disease. These results support lead’s role as a potential endocrine disruptor, with possible involvement of oxidative stress and neuroendocrine pathways.
Traffic Noise Levels and Hearing Impairment Among Shop Keepers in a Metropolitan City – An Embedded Mixed-Method Study
(Medsci Publications, 2025-07) Kirubakaran, S; Kumar, M; Murugan, A.
Context: Traffic noise and its impact on shop keepers is studied less. Use of mobile application for assessing noise levels and hearing impairment might provide solution in resource poor settings. Aims: Assess hearing impairment in shop keepers of traffic busy roads. Measure the noise exposure and monitor the community noise level in that locality. Find association between noise exposure and level of hearing impairment. Methods and Material: The study design was embedded mixed method design. It had 1) quantitative phase - hearing impairment among shop keepers, noise level measurements and photographs of study locations were taken, 2) qualitative phase - narrative analysis of the photographs. Results: Among participants, mean hearWHO score was 49.71 ± 10.95 and 34 had hearing impairment. It is found people who work for more than 10 years had a higher chance of developing hearing loss than those who worked less than 5 years. Weekly averages of noise values exceeded permissible limits in all locations. Narrative analysis suggested increased vehicle density in all locations. Conclusions: Traffic noise levels are higher than permissible limits mainly contributed by vehicles with potential risk for causing hearing impairment on long term exposure.
Knowledge, Attitude, And Practice in Diabetic Kidney Disease Prevention and Its Associated Factor Among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients in Northeast Peninsular Malaysia
(Medsci Publications, 2025-07) Bin, Rosedi, A; Mohd, Yusoff, SS; Hairon, SM; Mohammad, Basir, MF
Introduction: Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a major complication among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) patients. Understanding their knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of DKD prevention is crucial for guiding effective interventions. This study aimed to assess the level of KAP in DKD prevention and identify the factors associated with poor KAP among T2DM patients in Northeast Peninsular Malaysia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 600 T2DM patients from government health clinics in Kelantan, Malaysia. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire, and logistic regression analyses identified factors associated with poor KAP, considering socio-demographic and clinical characteristics. Results: Findings showed 77.0% had poor knowledge, 58.2% poor attitude, and 37.7% poor practice. Poor knowledge was associated with single/divorced marital status, lower education, and diabetic complications, while unemployed participants had lower odds of poor knowledge. Poor attitude was linked to poor knowledge, lower education, and unemployment, while poor practice was associated with non-Malay ethnicity, lower education, and poor attitude. Conclusion: Targeted educational interventions are needed, focusing on vulnerable groups with lower education and specific socio-demographic factors to enhance DKD prevention and improve T2DM patient outcomes.
Online Drug Purchasing in India: Community Pharmacists Perceptions and Attitudes
(Medsci Publications, 2025-07) Satheesh, SS; Sai, Lakshmi V; Sigma, Surbhi; Shreyas, PR
Background: In India, online pharmacies have gained significant popularity and are reshaping the way in which pharmaceutical services are provided. With community pharmacist serving as an integral part of public health, promoting the safe and effective use of medicines, this study aimed to evaluate their perceptions of online pharmacies. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Bangalore, Karnataka India. An electronic survey was developed and distributed to pharmacists across Bangalore through email and the collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 122 pharmacists participated in the study, and more than half of the participants agreed that they purchase medicines from online pharmacies, with approximately 19% doing it frequently and 52% making occasional purchases for their personal or family use. Half of the respondents (50.81%) believe that online pharmacies can be a source of counterfeit and substandard medicines and raised their concern over their safety. Participants suggested mandatory (47.54%) prescription verification, stringent regulatory measures, and accreditation processes for online pharmacies. Conclusion: Online pharmacies have the potential to further expand access to medications but must be introduced into the healthcare system in a balanced approach that does not compromise either patient safety or the traditional roles of pharmacies.
Prevalence of Eating Disorders and Their Association with Psychosocial Wellbeing Among Adults in an Urban Area of Tamil Nadu, India
(Medsci Publications, 2025-07) Gowtham, S; Anantha, Eashwar VM; Ilaval, I; Sekhar, MA; Sushmitha, G; Devi, R S
Background: Eating disorders are caused by the dynamic interaction of biological, psychological and sociocultural factors that affect physical and psychological well-being of humans. It leads to abnormal behavior in eating habits and excessive concern with body appearance and shape. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 350 people in urban field practice area of tertiary care hospital, Chengalpattu district by simple random sampling. Data was collected using standard questionnaires and analysed using SPSS v25. Analytical tests like Chi-square and odds ratios were used to find association between the presence of eating disorders following which enter method of logistic regression was done. Results: Out of 350 participants prevalence of eating disorder was found to be 81(23.1%). Gender (AOR-6.15, 95%CI- 2.31-16.34), Occupations (AOR-2.49, 95%CI-1.13-5.48), Diet (AOR-6.06, 95%CI-2.01-18.30), family history of mental health problems (AOR-4.71, 95%CI-1.42-15.54), BMI and poor wellbeing (AOR-2.82, 95%CI-1.32-6.01) were statistically significant. Conclusion: The risk of eating disorders was high among the female participants. Exercise, Body image perception, and family history of mental health problems are also associated with eating disorder. These findings show the need for targeted awareness programs and mental health interventions, particularly among high-risk groups such as females and individuals with poor well-being, to effectively address and prevent eating disorders.
Design and Evaluation of a Data-Driven Youth Well-Being Dashboard: A Pre-Post Mixed-Methods Study in Indian Colleges
(Medsci Publications, 2025-07) Malhotra, B; Bhargava, S; Joshi, A; Sahoo, J; Singhal, M; Musunuri, RL
Background: Well-being is a state similar to health that incorporates a sense of meaning in an individual's life. This study introduces the Youth Well-Being Dashboard, a digital platform for enhancing well-being for individuals aged 18-24. Methodology: Over six months, a pre-post mixed-methods study was conducted with 200 college students (n=100 intervention; n=100 control) in Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. The intervention group used a dashboard delivering personalized, real-time feedback across five domains; controls received static PDFs. Outcomes were measured using validated tools (DASS-21, GPAQ, FANTA, Ryff’s Scale, GSE) and the System Usability Scale (SUS). Results: The intervention group experienced a 30% reduction in anxiety, a 25% increase in physical activity, and an 18% improvement in dietary diversity all statistically significant (p<0.01). Notably, improved well-being strongly correlated with higher academic performance (r=0.41) and greater social engagement (r=0.36). User satisfaction was high (SUS: 82/100), and operational costs were low (?420/user/month), demonstrating both effectiveness and scalability. Conclusions: A personalized digital dashboard significantly improves youth well-being and related outcomes, offering a scalable, cost-effective solution for integration into educational and public health programs in India.
Childhood Vaccination Among Arab Parents: A Meta-Analysis of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices
(Medsci Publications, 2025-07) Al-Jadd, S; Merzah, M
Background: Childhood vaccination is crucial for preventing infectious diseases, yet parental concerns and hesitations persist. Understanding and assessing parental knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding vaccines is essential, as these factors influence confidence in vaccination and adherence to immunization schedules. Methods: This meta-analysis synthesized evidence on Arab parents' KAP toward childhood vaccination, based on a systematic review of eligible studies and pooled analysis using a random-effects model. Results: Fifteen studies were included: 14 reported knowledge scores (9,035 participants), 13 reported attitudes (8,523 participants), and 7 reported practices (5,106 participants). The pooled estimates were 0.73 for good knowledge (95% CI: 0.62–0.81), 0.83 for positive attitudes (95% CI: 0.74–0.89), and 0.77 for good practices (95% CI: 0.64–0.86), all with high heterogeneity (I² >97%). Meta-regression showed persistent variability (I² = 92.7%, 99.2%, 98.7%), with no significant link between KAP scores and the proportion of mothers. Conclusion: This meta-analysis highlights a strong association between good parental knowledge and positive attitudes, which translate into favorable vaccination practices. However, high heterogeneity across studies due to differences in design, populations, and cultural context limits the generalizability of findings. These findings underscore the need for targeted educational interventions to enhance parental vaccine awareness and uptake.
Mental Health Outcomes and Their Correlates in The Post-COVID-19 Era Among University Students and Staff in Indonesia
(Medsci Publications, 2025-01) Setiyadi, NA; Chakim, I; Rifki, Fauzi E; Sri, Purwanti, O; Andajani, S; Lianawati; Joseas, Conwi L; Sornlorm, K
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected global health, particularly mental health in academic communities. While its impact on mental health is well-documented, studies on the post-pandemic "new normal" remain scarce. This study examines the prevalence and factors linked to anxiety, depression, and QoL among Indonesian university students, lecturers, and staff post-pandemic. Methods: This cross-sectional study examines the impact of risk factors on anxiety, quality of life, and depression among university students, staff, and faculty post-Covid-19 vaccination. An online website link was sent to the participants comprising instruments such as PHQ-2, WHOQOL-BREF and GDS. Chi-square tests were used for bivariate analysis, and multivariate logistic regression modelled associated factors. Results: Poor QoL, depression, and anxiety were reported by 51.68%, 40.83%, and 44.19%, respectively. Unmarried individuals and those without a COVID-19 booster had higher odds of poor QoL (AOR: 3.32; 1.62). Unmarried individuals also faced greater depression risk (AOR: 2.56), while females and those with unvaccinated family members were more prone to anxiety (AOR: 2.42; 1.50). Conclusion: This study highlights mental health challenges post-pandemic, especially for those with incomplete vaccination and limited social support. It emphasizes the need for targeted interventions and complete vaccination to boost resilience in academic settings.
Caregiver’s Perspective on Preventing Unintentional Childhood Injuries in South Karnataka, India – A Qualitative Study
(Medsci Publications, 2025-01) Shetty, S; Nayak, BS; George, A; Pai, MS; Hebbar, S; Noronha, JA
Background: Childhood unintentional injuries are the leading cause of death and disability among young children. Interventions to prevent unintentional injuries are multidimensional, and identifying key areas would facilitate a better understanding and implementation of preventive measures. The present research was conducted to explore and understand caregivers' perspectives on unintentional injuries, which might further contribute to developing injury prevention strategies. Methods: The study adopted a qualitative approach. In-depth, open-ended, semi-structured, and individual interviews were conducted with caregivers of children between two and five-year-old age groups. Results: The codes generated from the study are grouped under three major themes: ‘Child behaviour and development’, ‘Caregivers' knowledge and practices’, and ‘Safe environment’. The reasons for unintentional injuries and strategies to prevent them were reflected in the findings. Caregivers demonstrated awareness in a few of the areas by identifying the risk of injuries. Environmental determinants such as a lack of space or inadequate storage facilities were reported as barriers to injury prevention. Conclusion: Understanding caregivers’ perspectives on injury prevention will enable them to change the behavior among caregivers. However, the barriers and facilitators to prevent injuries can be addressed during the development and implementation of the intervention package.
Dengue Fever: Addressing Ghana’s Emerging Public Health Crisis
(Medsci Publications, 2025-06) Amekpor, F; Tripathy, S; Anyamene, EL; Daniel, WK; Emmanuel, A; Mehta, V.
This study explores the public health concerns, challenges, and solutions surrounding dengue fever reemergence in Ghana. Several environmental factors such as open drainage system, improper waste disposal, improper storage of water influence the transmission of dengue disease in Ghana. Ghana is also dealing with issues related to increased global commerce and tourism, inadequate sanitation such as open drainage system, improper waste disposal and inadequate mosquito control measures which could lead to increased vulnerability to dengue outbreaks. Poor healthcare infrastructure, poverty, geographical inaccessibility, a shortage of skilled healthcare workers, lack of awareness among community members, and weak vector surveillance system further exacerbate the issue. Thus, there is an urgent need for coordinated efforts among policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the general public. Increasing public awareness through co-creation approaches, strengthening laboratory diagnostics, investing in healthcare professionals training, scaling up integrated vector management activities stakeholders can mitigate the risk of severe dengue complications in Ghana.
Beyond the Stethoscope: Burnout Syndrome Among Interns and Postgraduates in a South Indian Tertiary Care Setting
(Medsci Publications, 2025-06) Vijayakarthikeyan, M; Mathew, MS; Kannan, S R; Sangeetha, S
Background: Burnout is a troubling clinical syndrome characterized by excessive stress, dissatisfaction and a sense of being overworked. Prevalence of burnout varies from 50% to 76%, depending on the specialty across studies. The objectives of the study are to estimate the prevalence of burnout syndrome among interns and residents, and to identify the factors associated with it. Materials and Methods: It is a facility based analytical cross-sectional study conducted among 300 interns and postgraduates of a tertiary care hospital. Data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. The Copenhagen burnout inventory (CBI) scale was utilized to assess the prevalence of burnout. Chi-Square test was used to test the association and p value < 0.05 was considered as statistical significance. Results: Nearly 37.7% (113) were working for 41-60 hours in a week. 17.8% had high personal burnout, 14% had high work-related burnout and 47.8% had moderate patient related burnout. Hours of work (>60 hours in a week) were significantly associated with personal, work related and patient related burnout. Conclusion: Addressing this issue is crucial in the Indian context since burnout has a negative impact on patient care quality in addition to having major effects on the resident's physical and mental health.
Expanding AB-PMJAY For the Elderly: A Policy Shift Toward Universal Health Coverage in India
(Medsci Publications, 2025-06) Sankar, G K; Mahendran, R
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) is India's flagship health insurance scheme with the aim of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). With its recent expansion to all senior citizens above the age of 70, the scheme will have a greater impact on elderly health care and financial security. This review examines the effect of AB-PMJAY on access to healthcare, catastrophic health expenditure (CHE), and the infrastructure for geriatric care in India. The elderly population normally suffers from not only a high burden of non-communicable diseases but also several chronic health issues along with financial instability arising from low-income sources. The pool of reserves traditionally used to provide up to ?5 lakh per person is expected to reduce out-of-pocket health expenses, increased hospital utilization, and improves overall health outcomes; however, issues relating to access, enrolment difficulties, lack of hospital infrastructure, and financial sustainability still linger. For policymakers, recommendations must be made in relation to improving enrolment processes, strengthening geriatric services, and being on guard against fraud, all in an effort to ensure the effectiveness of the scheme. Targeting these will be critical in enabling equitable access to healthcare and financial protection for the rapidly growing elderly population in India.
Prevalence and Determinants of Functional Disability Among Elderly in Rural Goa, India
(Medsci Publications, 2025-01) Robin, R; Pinto, Da Silva VG
Background: Functional disability in older adults, defined as the inability to perform essential daily activities, is categorized into Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL). Understanding these limitations is key for informing health policies and services. The aim was to estimate the prevalence and identify factors associated with functional disability among the elderly in rural Goa. Methodology: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among the elderly residing in the field practice area of the Rural Health and Training Centre, Mandur, Goa. Data were collected from 300 elderly participants using the Katz ADL Index and Lawton Brody’s IADL Scale. Participants were selected through systematic random sampling. Results: ADL disability prevalence was 13.7%, while IADL disability was 38.7%. ADL disability was associated with sex, education, financial dependence, co-morbidities, alcoholism, and sensory impairments. IADL disability was linked to age, sex, education, financial dependence, co-morbidities and visual impairment. Conclusions: The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive geriatric assessments in rural communities, highlighting the importance of evaluating functional status at the primary healthcare level to improve elderly care policies.
Factors Affecting Anxiety Among Patients with Oro-Digestive Cancer: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study
(Medsci Publications, 2025-06) Ahwal, S; Rai, K; Jindal, A; Sahai, P
Introduction: A cancer diagnosis is perceived as life-altering and carries a deep emotional burden, leading to significant psychological distress. This cross-sectional descriptive study was aimed to assess anxiety and its contributing factors among Oro-digestive cancer patients. Methods: A study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital, after ethical clearance and participants’ consent. Purposive sampling technique was used to enroll 72 adult Oro-digestive cancer patients receiving chemotherapy from August 2024 to January, 2025. Depression anxiety stress scale (DASS-21) was used to assess the anxiety and a validated structured questionnaire was used to elicit data related to socio-demographic & clinical profiles. The scales were pilot tested and administered using face to face interview technique by the principal investigator. Results: More than 60% of the patients had some degree of anxiety. The mean anxiety score was significantly associated with age group (F=4.03, p=0.023*), gender (t=2.09, p=0.040*), marital status (F=5.74, p=0.016*) and history of substance use (t=2.48, p=0.015*) Among the clinical variables, type of cancer (t=2.44, p=0.017*), time since diagnosis (F=5.39,p=0.007*), performance status (t=2.29, p=0.025*) and number of side effects faced (F=26.8, p<0.001**) by the patients had a significant impact on anxiety scores. Conclusion: Younger, female, and single patients exhibited significantly higher levels of anxiety. In contrast, those experiencing fewer side effects and better performance status reported lower anxiety levels. Additionally, newly diagnosed individuals showed increased anxiety. Identifying these high-risk groups allows for early intervention, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.
Effectiveness of Colour-Coded Diabetes Monitoring Chart on Glycemic Control Among Adults with Diabetes Mellitus: A Community Trial in Rural South India
(Medsci Publications, 2025-06) Ismail, IM; Naik, PR
Background: Uncontrolled diabetes remains a major challenge, especially in developing countries, necessitating low-cost interventions. The objectives of this study were to assess, among adults with diabetes mellitus, (1) the effectiveness of colour-coded diabetes monitoring chart on glycemic control, (2) the change in knowledge and practice related to the control of diabetes, and (3) the perceptions regarding the use of the chart. Methodology: This community trial was conducted from Oct 2021 to Dec 2024 in Jokatte (Intervention site) and Madani Nagar (Control site) rural areas of Mangalore, India. A total of 180 adults with diabetes (90 per site) were recruited. The intervention arm was given the colour-coded diabetes chart designed by the authors to be used for one year. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS Ver27. Results: The intervention led to a 0.58% reduction in HbA1c after adjusting for covariates. Additionally, there were significant improvements in knowledge and practices related to diabetes management. The participants had favourable perceptions of the chart, with most desiring to continue using it. Conclusion: The colour-coded diabetes chart significantly improved glycemic control and enhanced diabetes-related knowledge and practices. This low-cost chart can be utilized in both government settings such as PHCs as well as private clinics.
Epidemiological Insights into Self-Medication Practices: A Study Among Residents in Selected Emirates of the UAE
(Medsci Publications, 2025-06) Jahir, Hussain, AH; Alahmed, AYAM; Patni, MA; Hossain, A; Elamin, AAE.
Background: Self-medication is a growing public health concern in the UAE. It is influenced by the country's diverse population and cultural practices. Defined as using medications without medical consultation, self-medication carries risks such as misuse, antibiotic resistance, and negative health outcomes. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, motivations, and socio-demographic determinants of self-medication, focusing on the use of non-prescriptive antibiotics, to inform interventions for safer practices. Methodology: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted over six months (June–December 2023) in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah. A structured, anonymous questionnaire was administered to 330 participants selected through non-probability consecutive sampling. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 29, with descriptive and inferential statistics applied, including chi-square and logistic regression tests, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Of the participants, 77.4% practiced self-medication, primarily for fever (89.7%) and cough/cold (85.5%). Antipyretics (92.7%) and analgesics (68.8%) were the most common drugs used, with pharmacies being the primary source (77.3%). Significant predictors of self-medication included education level, family structure, absence of a doctor in the family, and lack of health insurance. Self-medication is prevalent in UAE society. Conclusion: Regulatory measures, public education, and improved healthcare access are needed to mitigate risks and promote safe practices.

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