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

Permanent URI for this collection

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

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

Frequency: Half yearly

Language: English

Open Access Peer-reviewed journal

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

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Evaluation of Quality of Life in Patients on Different Treatment Modalities for Primary Glaucoma in a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital- A Prospective Observational Study
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-03) Santoki, H; Prajapati, NB; Raval, R; Shah, K; Tiwari, H; Sood, SV.
Introduction: Glaucoma, causes irreversible vision loss, involves optic nerve damage due to increased aqueous outflow resistance in primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) or iris blockage in primary-angle closure glaucoma (PACG). Objective: This study evaluates different treatment patterns and their effectiveness in primary glaucoma using the NEI VFQ-25. Method: A 2-month prospective observational study included patients with primary glaucoma, excluding those with secondary glaucoma or other ocular conditions. The sample size was determined based on study duration. Treatment groups received medical, laser, or surgical interventions, alone or combined. NEI VFQ-25 was administered at baseline and one month. Results: Among 100 patients, mean age 56.7 years, equally divided between POAG and PACG, QoL improved significantly across all treatment groups, greatest in medical treatment alone, multimodal treatment, least. One-way ANOVA showed difference in treatment approach on outcomes. Conclusion: Using NEI-VFQ-25, study assessed QoL in glaucoma patients across six treatment groups, finding highest QoL with medical therapy alone and lowest with combined treatments.
Determinants of Drug Resistance Among Tuberculosis Patients: A Hospital-Based Case-Control Study
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-03) Pundir, AS; Juyal, R; Shikha, D; Mishra, A; Singh, P.
Introduction: Tuberculosis is a public health concern for developing and low-income countries including India. The emergence of drug-resistant tuberculosis has added to the already existing economic and social burden. Objective: To assess the determinants of drug resistance among tuberculosis patients attending the tertiary care hospital Method: A hospital-based case-control study was carried out with sample size of 220 in a tertiary care institution, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, over the span of one year. Convenient sampling method was used to identify the cases and matched controls were selected with 1:1 ratio from patients visiting the outpatient department of the hospital. Data collection involved face-to-face interviews using a pretested structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS for Windows. Results: The majority of study subjects belonged to the age group of 15-34 years. Higher numbers of DR-TB cases were found to have Diabetes mellitus (14.5%) as compared to controls (9.1%). The risk involved in development of drug resistance was approximately 4 times higher in TB contacts and it was statistically significant (p-value 0.027). Higher number of DR-TB cases reported having TB in the past (66.3%) as compared to controls (20%). The majority of cases (48.2%) were found to be underweight as compared to controls (10.1%). Conclusion: Risk of development of DR-TB among diabetic cases was 1.7 times more in comparison to controls. The risk of development of drug resistance was 7.8 times more in subjects who had TB in the past. Underweight cases were more susceptible to developing DR-TB (OR 4.9; p<0.0001).
A Cross-Sectional Study of Stress and Related Conditions Among Nursing Students at a Tertiary Care Hospital, North India
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-03) Singh, S; Kunwer, R; Pathak, P; Singh, C.
Introduction: Mental well-being is a vital component of overall health, particularly for nursing students who face academic, clinical, and career-related pressures. Objective: To estimate the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress emotions among nursing students and its association with societal and bio-social behavioural factors. Method: An analytic cross-sectional study was conducted at a nursing college of a tertiary care hospital in Lucknow, India, from November 2023 to August 2024. 240 nursing students enrolled for the study with complete enumeration, out of which 205 filled questionnaires. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire, including the DASS-21 scale to assess depression, anxiety and stress levels. Societal variables (religion, caste, residence, family type) and bio-social behavioural factors (sleep duration, social media use, spiritual practices, and outdoor sports) were analysed. Statistical analysis was performed using STATA 18.0, and Chi-square tests were applied to determine associations. Results: Out of 205 nursing students, 78 (38%) experienced depressive emotions, 109 (53.2%) reported anxiety, and 84 (41%) suffered from stress emotions. Depression was most common among third-year students 24 (48%), anxiety among fourth-year students 35 (61.4%), and stress among third-year students 31 (62%). Social factors such as female gender, rural residence, hostel living, and minority religion were significantly associated with depression, anxiety and stress. Bio-social behaviours, including fewer than six hours of sleep and lack of outdoor activities, were significantly linked to higher depression, anxiety and stress scores. Conclusion: Nursing students face substantial mental health challenges, with anxiety being the most prevalent. Stress-related disorders were significantly associated with demographic factors such as Muslim religion, rural place of residence, residing in. hostels, Hours of sleep and indulgence in outdoor sports were found to be protective for stress-related illnesses.
Morbidity Profile of Sedentary Workers in a Food Packaging Industry in Goa: A Retrospective Record-Based Study
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-03) Nadia, DCM; Cacodcar, JA.
Introduction: With the advent of mechanization and technological advancement, there is an increase in sedentary and light intensity nature of work in the food manufacturing industry. Objective: To describe the morbidity profile of sedentary workers and factors associated with it in a food packaging industry in Goa. Method: A retrospective record-based study was conducted for a period of 3 months on 523 workers from food packaging industry in North Goa who are registered with an Occupational Health Service. Morbid conditions such as common chronic diseases like Diabetes, Hypertension, Visual and auditory problems were studied. Continuous data with normal distribution were expressed as mean and standard deviation. Morbidity profile was depicted as frequency and percentage and association with appropriate statistical test. Results: Majority, i.e. 495 workers (94.6%) did not have any co-morbidity, 17 (3.3%) had hypertension, 7 (1.3%) had diabetes and 4 (0.8%) had both diabetes and hypertension. Age ?30 years (p=0.000), presence of comorbidities (p=0.011), near vision (p=0.000), total vision (p=0.031) and blood pressure (p=0.002) were significantly associated with being overweight or obese. A low positive correlation was observed between Body Mass Index and systolic blood pressure (r=0.232, p=0.000), diastolic blood pressure (r=0.166, p=0.000) and Random Blood Sugar Level (r=0.089, p=0.042). Conclusion: Workers from the food packaging industry suffer from diabetes, hypertension and overweight, which are known to progress with prolonged periods of reduced physical activity as seen at their workplace.
Screen-time and Associated Factors among MBBS Students of a Government Medical College of Northeast India: A Cross-sectional Study
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-03) Das, S; Bhattacharjya, H; Datta, D; Das, R.
Introduction: Individuals now-a-days spend considerable time for viewing at LCD or LED screens of electronic gadgets. Such prolonged viewing may affect their health adversely. Objective: To estimate the proportion of high screen-time among MBBS students of a Government Medical College of Northeast India and to determine its association with their self-reported health problems and socio-demographic factors. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted during August and September 2024, using a self-administered and validated questionnaire in a calculated sample of 254 MBBS students of a Government Medical College, chosen by stratified random sampling. High screen-time was defined as spending more than 2 hours per day by a person for viewing an active LCD or LED screen. Chi-square test was used to test the significance of difference between two or more proportions and logistic regression analysis was also used. Results: Proportion of high screen-time was found to be 96.1% (244). Among all, 96.4% of the male, 96.7% of the urban, 98.3% of the hosteller, 97.5% of the students from nuclear families and all of the third year MBBS students had high screen-time. Except the type of family, proportion of high screen-time did not differ significantly across different groups of students. Logistic regression analysis has identified 'studying online' rd (AOR: 1.984, 95% CI: 1.565�342) and 'studying in 3 year' [AOR: 1.756, 95% CI: 1.014�671) as the significant determinants of screen-time (p<0.05). No significant association was detected between screen-time and self- reported health problems of the respondents. Conclusion: Majority of the MBBS students have high screen-time but rd it had no significant association with their self-reported health problems. Studying online' and 'studying in 3 year' were found to be significant determinants of high screen-time.
Nutritional Status and its Associated Factors Among Under-Five Children Attending the Well Baby Clinic of a Tertiary Care Institute of Kolkata, India
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-03) Naskar, S; Pattanayak, S; Nath, S; Gupta, K; Sarkar, NH; Sardar, SS.
Introduction: A Well-Baby Clinic (WBC) is a primary healthcare facility, where children are monitored for growth and development, receive routine immunization and their caregivers are given appropriate nutritional counselling. Objective: To assess the nutritional status (Underweight and anaemia) of under-5 children attending WBC of a Tertiary Care Institute of Kolkata and to identify any associated sociodemographic characteristics. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of 3 months (May 2023 to July 2023) among 106 under- 5 children, attending WBC of a Tertiary care Institute of Kolkata, selected using consecutive sampling. Face-to-face interviews were conducted among caregivers of children using an interview schedule, and anthropometric measurements and haemoglobin levels of the children were obtained using appropriate tools. Nutritional status was defined as Normal, Underweight, and Severely Underweight based on weight for age. Anaemia levels were categorized as mild, moderate, and severe based on haemoglobin levels. Association of sociodemographic characteristics with nutritional status was assessed using Binary Logistic Regression. Results: Among the children, 72.6% belonged within 12-24 months. Almost 19% and 17% of children were Moderately Underweight and Severely Underweight, respectively. Nearly 75% had a history of exclusive breastfeeding till 6 completed months of life, while 34% received formula feed. Regression analyses revealed statistically significant associations between the nutritional status of children with their gender and mothers' education. Conclusion: Nearly 36% of the under-5 children who attended the Well-Baby Clinic of a Tertiary Care Institute in Kolkata were categorised as Moderately or Severely Underweight, indicating that a sizable fraction of these infants had nutritional issues. Furthermore, the nutritional health of these children was found to be statistically significantly correlated with maternal education and gender, highlighting the significance of addressing sociodemographic inequities.
Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices and Their Association with Women抯 Autonomy: A Community-Based Study in Rural West Bengal
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-03) Sarkar, NH; Ray, K; Basu, SS; Gupta, K; Rashid, M; Basu, M.
Introduction: In majority of societies women are the primary caregivers of children. Poor feeding habits in early childhood contribute to malnutrition and child mortality in India. While the effects of some of the resources such as education on child feeding practices have been extensively evaluated, women's autonomy have received less attention. Objective: To assess feeding practices among the infants and young children in Budge-budge II block of West Bengal. Method: A descriptive study with cross-sectional design was conducted among 161 children between 6-23 months of age and their respondent mothers in Budge-Budge II block, West Bengal, using multistage random sampling. Mothers were interviewed face to face, and data were collected using a predesigned, pretested and structured IYCF practice schedule and a Likert-type women's autonomy measurement scale and analysed using SPSS v26.0. Multivariable binary logistic regression and the Pearson's correlation was done to find association. Results: Among the study participants, 155 (96.3%) reported being breastfed, 29 (18%) received pre-lacteal feed, 60 (37.3%) had not initiated breastfeeding early within 1 hour, 149 (92.5%) received colostrum, 39 (24.2%) were not exclusively breastfed; 119 (73.9%) of the study participants had adequate meal frequency whereas 87 (54%) and 97 (60.2%) had inadequate dietary diversity and acceptable diet respectively. Overall IYCF practice was significantly poor 113 (70.2%). Among the mothers 88 (54.7%) had lower level of autonomy. Conclusion: More than half of the study participants had poor overall IYCF practices. A majority of the mothers were having a lower level of autonomy. IYCF practices were found to be poorer among the female children and those delivered by Caesarean Section. Moderately positive correlation was found between mothers' autonomy and IYCF practices.
Health-Seeking Behaviour and its Challenges for Reproductive Tract Infections Among Married Women of Reproductive Age Group Residing at Urban Slums of Agra: A Cross-Sectional Study
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-03) Yadav, A; Chaudhary, SS; Kaur, S; Madhukar, MN; Sonam.
Introduction: Reproductive tract infections continue to be a major public health issue, especially for urban low-income women of reproductive age. RTI burden is increased by delayed diagnosis and treatment due to poor health-seeking behaviour and other socioeconomic constraints. This study looks at the health-seeking habits and difficulties of married, reproductive-age women living in Agra's urban slums. Objective: 1. To assess the health- seeking behaviour for reproductive tract infections among married women of urban slum of Agra. 2. To explore the challenges they faced for the treatment of reproductive tract infections Method: A cross-sectional study among 500 married women in Agra's urban slums used the WHO syndromic approach for RTI/STI diagnosis. Multistage random sampling selected one ward and two slums. Interviews followed a random starting direction and the left- hand rule until the sample size was met. Results: The study found that 57.92% of females with RTI/STI symptoms sought treatment, while 42.07% did not, with barriers including perceived lack of importance, financial constraints, embarrassment, lack of family support, and time limitations. Conclusion: In Agra's urban slums, just over half of women sought treatment for RTI/STI symptoms, primarily at government facilities, while significant barriers prevented others. Perceived lack of seriousness, financial constraints, and embarrassment were key deterrents. A major reason for stopping the treatment was absence of symptoms. Interventions are needed to increase awareness, improve access, address financial issues and reduce stigma.
A Study on Perceptions, Practices, and Experiences About Antibiotic Consumption and Antibiotic Resistance Among Various Stakeholders From the Catchment Area of an Urban Health Training Centre in Ahmedabad
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2025-03) Patel, N; Patel, P; Sharma, R; Patel, B; Gajjar, S; Bapat, N; Chandegara, A.
Introduction: Misuse or abuse of antibiotic consumption, leading to antibiotic resistance, is an emerging global public health issue. It is crucial to regulate the antibiotic usage by involving all stakeholders. Objective: To document the perceptions, practices, and experiences about antibiotic consumption and awareness of antibiotic resistance amongst doctors, drug dispensers, and end-users. Method: A qualitative study was conducted in the UHTC catchment area, Ognaj, Ahmedabad. A total of 26 In-depth interviews with stakeholders (10 Doctors, 8 Drug dispensers and 8 End users) were conducted using an interview guide. Various themes and sub themes were categorized manually, and verbatim were quoted, at the end of all the In-depth interviews, name of the antibiotics spoken was categories into Access, Watch and Reserve group as per WHO AWaRe classification and word cloud analysis was done. Results: Participated doctors had a wide range of qualifications and experience. It was found that doctors prescribe antibiotics mainly from the Access and Watch group (more from the Watch group). Drug dispensers were concerned about over-the-counter (OTC) dispensing and self-medication of antibiotics. However, they also shared the fact that the antibiotics are dispensed without prescriptions. End-users commonly sought antibiotics for minor ailments without prescriptions. Only one end user was aware of the implications of self- medication and resultant antibiotic resistance. Conclusion: Most antibiotics prescribed by doctors and dispensed at chemist shops were from the Watch and Access groups, respectively. End users mainly purchased antibiotics from the Access and Watch groups. The findings highlight the urgent need for awareness sessions on antibiotic use and resistance for all stakeholders, along with stronger regulatory measures to control antibiotic sales by drug dispensers.
A Cross-Sectional Study on Functional Disability among the Elderly in Rural Area of Goa
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2024-09) Arya, Ravi; Da Silva, Vanita G. Pinto
Introduction: Functional disability among the elderly reduces autonomy, leading to dependency, decreased quality of life, increased hospitalization, and higher mortality rates, ultimately lowering general life expectancy and increasing disabled life expectancy. Objectives: 1. To estimate the prevalence of functional disability among the elderly residing in the field practice area of Rural Health and Training Centre, Mandur, Goa. 2. To determine the factors associated with functional disability among study participants Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among elderly individuals (aged 60 years and above) in the field practice area of Rural Health and Training Centre, Mandur, Goa. Systematic random sampling recruited 372 participants from 1,588 households. Functional disability was assessed using the Barthel Index, with data analysed using SPSS 22.0. Prevalence was expressed as a percentage, and associations were evaluated using significance tests and Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals. Results: Out of 372 participants (mean age: 71.24 ± 8.03 years), 95 (25.5%) had functional disabilities in ADL, visual, or hearing impairments. Significant associations were found with age, literacy, financial dependence, and current alcohol consumption (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The high prevalence of functional disability among the elderly in rural Goa highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve quality of life and independence. Health education, literacy, and financial support are critical for preserving functional abilities. Community- based initiatives and supportive healthcare policies are essential for reducing disability and healthcare costs among the elderly.
Assessment of the Time Utilization of the Community Health Officers (CHO) of Bhavnagar District, Gujarat: A Cross-sectional Study
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2024-09) Prajapati, Kartik B.; Bhalani, Kailesh D.
Introduction: To attain "universal health coverage" and "health of all", a new cadre namely Community Health Officer (CHO) was introduced at HWC (Health and Wellness Center). In the community, CHO serves as the initial point of contact and source of information for health-related issues. Objective: To assess the utilization of time of CHO at HWCs, Bhavnagar. Method: Out of 63 CHOs with experience of more than 1 year in Bhavnagar district, 30 CHOs were selected randomly for utilization of time. Each CHO was accompanied during their duty hours for all working days of a week. Time spent by a CHO in different activities was recorded. Data were analyzed by using Epi Info Software. Results: It was observed that on an average, CHOs remained on duty for 93% of their duty hours. Around 29.61% of their actual on-duty-time (per week) was used for the personal work, while 17.34% of their on-duty-time was used in OPD, 14.36 % in COVID-19 related work and 14.13% in administration work. Conclusion: The analysis revealed that CHOs spent 93% of their scheduled duty hours on the job. CHOs spent almost one third of their duty hours for the personal work.
Determinants of Tuberculosis Treatment Outcome among Patients Belonging to the Tea Tribe Community in Dibrugarh District of Assam
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2024-12) Mahanta, Bhupendra, Narayan; Mahanta, Tulika Goswami; Nirmolia, Nabanita; Baruah, Swarnali Devi
Introduction: Certain social determinants like poverty, malnutrition, indoor air pollution, male gender, diabetes, and cancer are some identified risk factors of TB. The tea garden population as it is socio- economically backward are more vulnerable to get infected. Objective: To estimate the determinants of tuberculosis treatment outcomes among patients belonging to the tea tribe community in Dibrugarh District of Assam and to assess the quality of life using WHO-QoL (BREF) instrument. Method: A Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Dibrugarh District of Assam. A sample size of 930was calculated using nMaster2.0 software, CMC, Vellore, India. From the list of registered TB cases whose treatment was assigned hailing from tea estates,a required sample was selected using a computerized random number. Predesigned, pretested questionnaire was used to assess the demographic, socio-economic, environmental and health- seeking behaviour of the participants. Univariate and bivariate analysis was done. Results: Total participation was 785. Regarding environmental determinants, ventilation was very poor and 98.5% used firewood as fuel for cooking. The risk of passive smoking was present in 7.6% of households. Respondents who had a history of family members with chronic cough were present in 5.9%. Loss to follow up rate was 2.9% (23/786). Lack of energy and fatigue was experienced by 83.6%. Marital status, occupation, monthly income, type of family and ventilation were associated with treatment outcome. Gender and socio-economic status of the respondents were associated with knowledge attitude and practice on Hepatitis B among participants which was found to be statistically significant (p-value < 0.0001). Conclusion: Certain social and environmental determinants like monthly income, type of family, and inadequate ventilation influence the treatment outcome in the tea garden population. Knowledge and practice pattern for tuberculosis needs to be improved to prevent transmission and alteration in quality of life.
Assessment of Empathy among Health Professional Students in a Government Medical College in South India
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2024-09) R, Bhavani; Simon, Sneha; Ali, Fathima Shoukath; Divyasri, Rudrakshala
Introduction: Doctor-patient relationship is highly influenced by empathy which is a vital quality among medical students. Objective: To assess the empathy level in the medical students and the socio- demographic factors influencing it. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among the undergraduates of a Government Medical College in Telangana during February 2024. Total of 309 students participated in the study. Data were collected with a semi structured questionnaire and the empathy was assessed with the help of Jefferson Scale of Empathy - Student Version. Descriptive statistics were used for demographic data and Student t test and One-way ANOVA were used for comparing semesters. Results: The mean empathy score in the current study was 100.20 ± 15.23. Final MBBS part I students were more empathic (103.27±13.04) compared to second phase students and interns. Female students and the students who made the independent decision to pursue MBBS had significantly higher empathy scores than the others. The empathy score was not significantly associated with the choice of speciality. Conclusion: The mean empathy score was 100.20 (maximum score – 140) among the medical students in South India. The age, gender and the phase of the students were significantly associated with empathy. There was no relation between the empathy scores and choice of speciality.
Assessment of Knowledge and Preventive Practices on Latent Tuberculosis Infection among Nursing staff at a Tertiary Care Centre at Goa
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2024-09) V.C., Aswin; Da Silva, Vanita .G. Pinto; Patnaik, Sandeep; Hallur, Apoorva; Tari, Yamesh Vidyadhar
Introduction: Latent tuberculosis infection presents with no symptoms. All nursing staff who work closely with patients must possess the appropriate knowledge and follow the right preventive practices to avoid latent tuberculosis infection. This study was carried out to assess knowledge and preventive practices on latent TB which will help in making recommendations for the control of TB infection among nursing staffs. Objective: To assess knowledge and preventive practices regarding latent Tuberculosis infection and to assess infection controlpractices among the nursing staff. Method: This was a facility based cross sectional study conducted among nurses who works in Outpatient departments and wards of tertiary care centre. A complete list of the participants was made, and data from all nurses employed in every ward and outpatient department of the hospital was collected using a semi-structured self-administered questionnaire. A sample size of 384 nurses was calculated using Cochrane formula with p=50% and simple random sampling was used. Results: Out of 384 nurses, 376 (97.9%) were females and 8 (2.1%) were males. Regarding prevention of latent tuberculosis, 327 (85.1%) nurses answered wearing of mask, followed by regular sterilisation of hospitals which was 281 (73.1%) nurses. Out of 384 nurses, 298 (77.6%) of them wear a mask while dealing with coughing patients. In this, 242 (81.3%) reported usage of a surgical mask while N95 mask is only used by 56 (18.7%) of them. Conclusion: Overall knowledge regarding latent tuberculosis was satisfactory among the nurses. Practice on infection control was not satisfactory.
Descriptive Analysis of Undergraduate Community Medicine Question Papers and Blueprint Preparation: A Study from West Bengal
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2024-09) Das, Sukesh; Ingole, Abhishek; Ghosh, Santanu; Chatterjee, Supantha; Dasgupta, Samir
Introduction: Periodic review of Question papers is needed to ensure validity of student assessment. Blueprint is an effective tool to guide Paper setters. Objectives: To assess coverage and weightage of content areas in last 10 years (2012-2021) UG Community Medicine Question papers in West Bengal and to prepare a Blueprint of teaching and assessment in Theory Examination for the above subject. Method: Secondary data analysis was done on University Question papers (40 in number). For Blueprinting, inputs of 13 Faculty members were considered. The duration of the study was one year (Nov 2021-Oct 2022). Results: Overall, Basic and Disease Epidemiology were given maximum weightage (10.2%+23.8%= 34.0%) followed by Maternal and child health (MCH) (14.2%). Poor coverage and weightage was seen in Social & Behavioural sciences, Health planning and management, Geriatric health problems and Genetic diseases, which were allotted only 4.2% marks combined. There was cross-over of topics between two Papers (averaging 4.3% to Paper I and 8.4% to Paper II) in all the years with wide range across the period (2012 - 2021). The Blueprint suggested decrease in weightage of Epidemiology (28.4% vs 34.0%) and Health care delivery (5.0% vs 7.8%) whereas increase of weightage of 'Others' (24.2% vs 14.8%) compared to Question papers. Conclusion: There was inconsistency in coverage and weightage to different topics across the years. This review, along with the Blueprint prepared, would be helpful to improve teaching and assessment in the above subject.
Assessing Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Medication Disposal: A Study on Rural Communities in Sarojini Nagar, Lucknow
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2024-12) Kashyap, Saurabh; MA, Akshata; Agrawal, Anubhav; Singh, Abhishek; Verma, Aman; Gupta, Ish
Introduction: The increasing global consumption of medications has led to a significant rise in the improper disposal of unused and expired drugs, posing risks to both human health and the environment. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the understanding, beliefs, and behaviours related to the disposal of such medications within the rural community of Sarojini Nagar, Lucknow. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in June 2024 with 317 participants from rural Sarojini Nagar, including patients and attendants visiting the General and NCD OPD of PHC Sarojininagar, chosen purposively. Participants aged 18 years and above who provided consent were included, while those with cognitive or communication issues were excluded. Participants were interviewed by Junior Residents and Data was gathered using a structured questionnaire to evaluate demographic characteristics, knowledge, perceptions, attitudes, and practices related to the disposal of unused and expired medications. Results: The study revealed a lack of awareness about proper disposal methods, with 77.3% of participants reporting no prior information on the subject. Only 14.8% were aware of drug take-back policies. A majority (87.9%) recognized the harmful effects of improper disposal, and 93.7% agreed that such practices negatively impact the environment. Despite this, 69.4% of participants reported keeping unused medications at home, and 78.0% disposed of expired medications by throwing them in household trash. Conclusion: The findings highlight a significant gap in knowledge and practices regarding safe drug disposal among rural community of Sarojini Nagar. There is an urgent need for targeted educational programs and the implementation of effective drug take-back systems to mitigate the risks associated with improper disposal. Raising awareness and providing clear guidance on safe disposal methods are crucial steps towards protecting public health and the environment in these communities.
Sociodemographic Profile of Severely Malnourished Children Admitted to a Nutritional Rehabilitation Centre in one of the Districts of Maharashtra: A Cross sectional Study
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2024-12) Borkar, Pratik; Sangam, Rohan; Rawat, Shalini; Kembali, Ravindra
Introduction : Globally malnutrition remains the one of the leading causes of mortality contributing to 60% of deaths in under five children. Severely acute malnutrition children are admitted to Nutritional rehabilitation centre for promoting their clinical and psychological growth. Objective: To describe the sociodemographic profile of severely malnourished children admitted in NRC. Method: The cross sectional study was conducted in a Nutritional Rehabilitation Centre (NRC) of a District Hospital of Thane in Maharashtra among the under five children of age group 6 to 60 months who were admitted in NRC and staying in Thane block during study period. Complete enumeration method was used. A Total Sample size of 96(based on the inclusion criteria) was obtained for the purpose of record based data, while for interview sample size was 73(20 cases were non traceable and 3 death were reported) with the parents/guardians of the children. Data was collected using a pre-validated semi structured interview guide via face to face interview. The study was conducted during the 18 month period from March 2017 to August 2018. Data was analysed by using SPSS software version 22.0. Results: Majority of the children admitted to the NRC were male (55.2%). Majority of the mothers were educated till middle school (34.3%) as were the majority fathers (37%). Majority of children had birth order<3 (76.7%). Acute respiratory infection (34.4%), acute gastroenteritis (26%) and acute febrile illness (19.8%) were the most common comorbidities observed among the children. Prelacteal feed was given in 5.1% children and colostrum was given to 56.1%, exclusive breast feeding was not given in majority of the children (65.8%). Conclusion: Severe acute malnutrition appears to be more prevalent among households belonging to middle and lower middle class. Educational status of parents was found to be low among majority of the study participants. Exclusive breast feeding was also lacking in majority of the children.
'Medical Minds and Machine Learning': Awareness and Opinions on Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare among Undergraduate Medical Students of a Tertiary Care Institute of Kolkata, India
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2024-12) Shalini, Pattanayak; Mausumi, Basu; Debasish, Sinha; Prince, Kerketta
Introduction: There is a need to incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) in medical education which may help in expanding awareness on role of AI in healthcare among the students. Objectives: To assess the awareness and opinions on role of AI in healthcare among undergraduate medical students of a Tertiary Care Institute of Kolkata and to identify any associated sociodemographic factors with their awareness on AI. Method: Descriptive study was conducted using consecutive sampling among 288 undergraduate medical students using a pretested questionnaire, from August - October (2023). Participants with an 'overall awareness score on AI' equal to or above median were categorized as having 'high awareness'. Association of sociodemographic profile with awareness was assessed using binary logistic regression. Results: Almost half (51%) of the students belonged to Phase III of MBBS. Around 70.8% believed AI will reduce medication errors, while 83.3% opined AI will aid in healthcare-oriented research. 53.5% had low awareness on role of AI. Higher odds of low awareness were found among students whose parents were involved in healthcare. Conclusion: Almost half of the students had high awareness on role of AI in healthcare. More seminars, workshops etc., may be helpful in generating further awareness and orientation among the undergraduate medical students for appropriate use of AI applications in future.
A Community-Based Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice on Hepatitis B among Residents in a Coastal Village of Southern India
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2024-09) Chellamuthu, Lalithambigai; Dhakshnamurthy, Senkadhirdasan; Balamurugan, Vinodhini; Kanagalingam, Sindu
Introduction: The National Viral Hepatitis Control Program launched by the Government of India aims to end viral hepatitis by the year 2030. The main key objective of the programme is to enhance community awareness about the virus, the disease and the preventive measures for tackling the burden of hepatitis. Lack of knowledge and awareness regarding the disease, its modes of spread and the available preventive strategies would seriously limit in achieving the goal of reduction in burden and elimination of HBV. Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitude and practice on epidemiology of Hepatitis B among residents in a coastal village of Puducherry, Southern India. Method: A community-based, cross-sectional survey was conducted for three months among 796 adults aged ?18 years residing in a coastal village which was one of the rural field practice areas of a private medical college in Puducherry. Multi-stage sampling technique was followed. A pre-validated, semi-structured questionnaire incorporated in Epicollect 5 software was utilized to capture the data through face-to-face interviews. The data analysis was performed using SPSS, v24.0. Results: About 66.3% of participants had heard of Hepatitis with 55.9% specifically aware of Hepatitis B as a viral disease. More than half (59.3%) believed they could contract Hepatitis B. About three-fourth (73.1%) had not undergone screening for Hepatitis B, and 67.1% had not received the Hepatitis B vaccination. Age, gender and socio-economic status of the respondents were associated with knowledge attitude and practice on Hepatitis B among participants which was found to be statistically significant (p-value < 0.0001). Conclusion: The findings from the study showed that more than two third of participants had heard of Hepatitis. More than half of the respondents believed they could contract Hepatitis B. Nearly two-third respondents had not received Hepatitis B vaccination.
Needle Stick Injuries among Healthcare Workers in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Lucknow
(Dr.Viral R.Dave, 2024-09) Pandey, Prabhat K; Kunwar, Rajesh; Sengar, Mili; Gupta, Ginic; Saini, Rama
Introduction: In healthcare settings, needle stick injuries (NSIs) pose a serious risk to occupational health. They often go unreported, which exposes a crucial weakness in workplace safety procedures. Research on needle stick injuries is crucial for enhancing the safety and well-being of healthcare workers, improving healthcare delivery, and ensuring that healthcare environments are as safe and effective as possible. Objectives: To determine the prevalence and associated factors of needle stick injuries among Healthcare workers in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Lucknow. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted from April 2024 to June 2024 in a tertiary care hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh among 213 Health Care Workers (HCWs) i.e., physicians (consultants, specialists, and residents), nurses, other healthcare workers, and class IV employee working for a period of more than one year. A pre designed and pre tested structured questionnaire was developed for the study. Data regarding injuries by needle stick was collected. All needle stick injuries occurring between the period April 2023 and March 2024 was recorded. Results: The prevalence of needle stick injuries among healthcare workers was found to be 11.7% (25 out of 213) in the period of April 2023 to March 2024. Fingers (88%) were the most common site of NSI, followed by palm (8%) and hands (4%). The most common place of occurrence of NSI was wards (40%) and majority of the injuries were superficial (84%). The most common sharp causing NSI was needle (72%), followed by glass items (20%) and scalpel (4%). There was a statistically significant association between NSI and gender, years of experience, dissembling of needles by hand and working shift of health care workers (p=0.000). Conclusion: Prevalence of NSI was found to be higher among medical and paramedical staff who were working during day shift, working more than 7 hours a day and had an experience of less than 3 years.

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