bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A hospital-based retrospective cohort study of COVID-19 deaths in a tertiary care medical college hospital in Bengaluru, Karnataka
Authors: Khargekar Vandana Chandrahas , Seeri Jayashree S. , Nirmala CJ , Rashmi R. , Swamy DM Narayana
Published: May 2024

Background:

The outbreak of new SARS-CoV-2 infection has spread all over the world. Globally, there have been 624,235,272 confirmed cases of COVID-19 including 6,555,270 deaths as on October 24, 2022, as declared by World Health Organization. Unlike the countries earlier affected with this pandemic, which have undergone epidemiologic transition, India still faces the dual burden of infectious and chronic disease challenges.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to study the demographic and clinical characteristics of deceased COVID-19 cases. To compare clinical parameters between deceased comorbid and noncomorbid COVID-19 cases and to perform a time audit of deceased COVID-19 cases from the onset of symptom to the time of hospitalization and death.

Materials and Methods:

A hospital-based retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary care medical college hospital, Bengaluru. The study was conducted by review of clinical data of 142 COVID-19 deaths which occurred during the second COVID-19 wave. Details including age, gender, the period of the illness before to and/or during hospitalizations, symptoms, comorbidities, and reason of death were all noted.

Results:

According to the present study, 68.3% of deaths were with comorbidities and 31.7% were without comorbidities. Of the total deaths, 64.8% were males and 35.2% were females. Majority of the deceased were between 51 and 70 years. At the time of arrival to the hospital, 50.7% recorded SPO2 <88%. Around 60% of the deceased were severe cases and were directly admitted to a high dependency unit or intensive care unit. About 17.6% died within 24 h of admission.

Conclusions:

The current study showed very high case fatality rate due to COVID-19 and was slightly higher in males.
Prevalence and lifestyle-related risk factors of obesity
Authors: Savani Nikita Maheshbhai , Chauhan Rajendra B. , Chudasama Rajesh K.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Obesity is known to be the first wave of an outlined cluster of noncommunicable diseases called “New World Syndrome” creating a huge socioeconomic and public health burden in poorer countries. In India, obesity has emerged as a crucial health problem, specifically in urban areas, paradoxically coexisting with undernutrition imparting “Double Burden of Disease Obesity”.

Objective:

To study the prevalence and associated factors of obesity among nationalized and private sectors' bank employees.

Materials and Methods:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted. There were around 160 total branches of banks in Rajkot. After explaining the purpose of the study, regional head of 70 banks gave permission to conduct the study. Employees working in nationalized and private banks and those who gave consent to take participation were included in this study. Total 800 bank employees participated in the present study.

Results:

Out of all employees, 36.4% and 11.5% of employees were found to be overweight and obese, respectively. Among all, 23.4% of employees had addiction. Out of all, 88% of employees took homemade lunch, while 28.3% employees skip their lunch. Around 82.2% took junk food as snacks. More than half of the employees were not doing any type of exercise at the time of the present study.

Conclusion:

Marital status, education, source of lunch food, and exercise were found to be significantly associated with obesity.
Effect of steam inhalation therapy as add-on to standard treatment in COVID-19 patients with mild symptoms
Authors: Bandaru Rajiv Kumar , Mirza Mehdi Ali , Suravaram Swathi , Bala Sudha , Narsimhan Calambur , Muthiah Subramanian
Published: May 2024

Background:

The different ambient temperatures of the upper and lower respiratory tract could influence the replication kinetics of the virus.

Objective:

This study is aimed to evaluate the effect of steam inhalation on clinical progression of COVID-19 and its subsequent impact on viral load that was evaluated in patients.

Materials and Methods:

A randomized control trial in mildly infected COVID-19 was undertaken. The participants were randomized either to standard treatment plus steam inhalation (test, n = 22) or standard treatment alone (control, n = 22). Steam inhalation was continued for 20 min thrice daily for 10 days. The first reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction swab was collected on day 1 before steam inhalation and the second swab was obtained after its completion on the fourth day. In the control group, the swabs were collected at the matched time-points. The clinical progression of disease and the need of oxygen therapy were observed for 10 days. Reductions in cycle-threshold levels were assessed at the completion of 4 days of steam treatment.

Results:

Only one patient from the test group and six patients from the control group progressed to moderate disease. No patient from the steam group required oxygen therapy, whereas three patients from the control group needed it. The median cycle-threshold levels pertaining to N-gene, E-gene, and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, respectively, were nonsignificant. All the patients showed clinical recovery.

Conclusions:

The clinical trends support the use of steam therapy as add on over standard treatment in mildly infected COVID-19 patients.
A unique case of intravenous pyrethroid administration with poisoning
Authors: Agarwal Vyom , Dubey Prachi , Khare Rajeev Lochan , Lakra Devpriya
Published: May 2024

Pyrethroids are widely used as insecticides at home, as part of mass anti-mosquito strategies, and in agricultural fields for control of insects. A 24-year-old female presented with a history of IV injections of around 2–3 ml of mosquito-repellent fluid (pyrethroid compounds) 2 days back. The patient complained of breathing difficulty and had normal vitals with slight derangement of laboratory parameters. On day 5 of admission, the patient complained of increased breathing difficulty with respiratory failure. The patient condition improved with oxygen and supportive care over next 5 days. The current case was unique in its route of administration being intravenous (IV), leading to more bio-exposure with less quantity of poison. No similar reports were found in the literature. There is scope for further research to throw light on the effects and toxicity of pyrethroids in plausible scenarios.
A cross-sectional study of prehypertension among young adults residing in an urban area of South India
Authors: Sidenur Bhagyalaxmi , Shankar Gowri
Published: May 2024

Background:

Early warning signs of prehypertension indicate a higher likelihood of developing hypertension later in life. Prehypertension was given a new classification in the Seventh Joint National Committee-7 report that distinguished it from hypertension that had already developed. Prehypertensive people were those with systolic blood pressure between 120-139 mmHg or diastolic between 80 and 89 mmHg.

Objectives:

The objective of this study is to study the prevalence of prehypertension and the factors associated with it.

Materials and Methods:

The current cross-sectional study was done in an urban field practice area of a medical college with a study population ranging from 20 to 40 years. The sample size was 420. The systematic random sampling method was used to select the subjects. Anthropometric measurements such as weight, height, waist, and hip circumference were recorded. Body mass index was categorized according to the South East Asian region (WHO). The institutional ethical board accepted the study protocol.

Results:

About 51.6% of people had prehypertension. Prehypertension was most common in people between the ages of 35 and 40 (35.4%). Prehypertension was more common in males and was highest in class IV socioeconomic status (37.3%). When compared to sedentary employees, moderate workers have a higher frequency of prehypertension (68.6%).

Conclusion:

Our study shows that prehypertension is becoming more common among young individuals in the age range of 20–40 years (51.6%), indicating that it is not an age-related condition.
A population based epidemiological study in the Pune district of Western India to analyse knowledge, attitude, and practices relating to COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Basannar Dashrath , Goyal Ashish Kumar , Singh Pardal Maninder Pal
Published: May 2024

Background:

There is evidence that the population's knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) influence the implementation of nonpharmacological therapies. Given the paucity of research in this area, we felt compelled to conduct an immediate study of public knowledge of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Objective:

The objective is to estimate the level of KAP regarding COVID-19 among the general population.

Materials and Methods:

In the Western Indian District of Pune, a descriptive research was carried out. The study used a sample size of 400 people. Participants in the study were selected from residents of the study region who were at least 18 year old and willing to take part. A semi-structured, self-reported respondent-friendly questionnaire was used. Using the proper statistical tests, KAP scores according to various sociodemographic factors were compared. The confidentiality and anonymity of the study participants were maintained.

Results:

The participants' average age was 30.53 years (standard deviation [SD] 6.98). The average score for knowledge was 15.28 (SD 2.63), attitude was 111.26 (SD 13.2), and practice was 13.43 (SD 1.1). We found a statistically significant knowledge gap across a range of age and educational categories. With the participants' advancing age, there was a significant variation in attitude (P = 0.02). Statistics showed that there were significant differences in practices for different age groups and educational levels.

Conclusion:

According to the results of our study, it is frequently necessary to target vulnerable groups with information education and communication programs targeted at mobilizing and enhancing KAP relevant to COVID-19.
Knowledge, attitude, and practices related to reproductive and sexual health among adolescent girls in a rural community of Telangana
Authors: Soodi Reddy Arun Kiran Soodi , Varanasi Soumya , Ameer Shaik Riyaz , Paul Kalyan Kumar , Reddy Anantha Akhila
Published: May 2024

Background:

The majority of adolescents lack basic knowledge about puberty, growth during puberty, safe sex, and hygiene. Unawareness about safe sex and protection and contraceptives may increase the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), unwanted pregnancies, etc.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to study knowledge, attitude, and practices related to reproductive and sexual health among adolescent girls in a rural community of Telangana.

Methods:

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in secondary schools which were located in the rural field practice area of a medical college. All schools in the village were included in the study. Study participants were 6th–10th standard adolescent school girls, with the age group of 10–19 years. A questionnaire regarding knowledge, attitude, and practices related to reproductive and sexual health was used.

Results:

The mean age was 13.6 ± 1.386 years. Eighty-four percentage were from nuclear families and only 10% were from below poverty line families, with a mean per capita income of 2626 ± 1708 international normalized ratio. Seventy-five percentage were aware about puberty; source of information was mothers (67%). Ninety percentage did not know how women become pregnant, STDs, and HIV/AIDS. Only 30% said that oral pills were effective against pregnancy and 95% did not know that condoms prevent STDs. Sixty percentage said their schools covered classes regarding normal anatomy, physiology, menstrual hygiene, and reproductive health, of which only 52% attended this topic. About 82.4% of the subjects felt that it is necessary to maintain cleanliness during menstruation. Seventy-five percentage were using sanitary napkins, and 80% were washing hands after changing sanitary napkins with soap and water. Twenty percentage were throwing directly into drainage or dustbin.

Conclusion:

Knowledge related to reproductive and sexual health among adolescent girls in these adolescent girls was poor and their attitude and practices were also poor.
Coverage and compliance assessment survey following lymphatic filariasis mass drug administration in Warangal, Telangana
Authors: Bhavani R , Kumari S. M. V. , Divyasri Rudrakshala , Jha Punam Kumari
Published: May 2024

Background:

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) impairs the lymphatic system causing pain and physical disability. A total of 859 million people in 50 countries require preventive chemotherapy to stop the infection. Mass drug administration (MDA) strategy was started to eliminate LF by 2020. In India, filariasis is endemic in 257 districts. Hence, this study aimed to assess the coverage and compliance following MDA toward filariasis in Warangal.

Objective:

The objective was to estimate the coverage rate, compliance rate, effective coverage rate, and coverage compliance gap of MDA toward filariasis in Warangal.

Materials and Methods:

The study was done in Warangal district, in which four clusters were chosen. The multistage sampling technique was adopted. Four villages were selected randomly from four PHCs. Each village included 30 households. All household members were interviewed with pretested, semi-structured questionnaire. Data were entered in Excel, and descriptive statistics were used.

Results:

In total, 476 were eligible for MDA administration. The total coverage rate was 80.4%, total compliance rate was 94.2%, effective coverage rate was 75.8%, and coverage compliance gap was 5.7%. The most common reason for nonconsumption was people thought that drug was not needed. The side effect after consumption was 1.6%.

Conclusion:

The overall coverage rate (80.4%) was less than the recommended level (85%) for the elimination of LF. The compliance rate was 94.2%, which says that most of the people consumed the tablet. Effective coverage (75.8%) reflects the actual coverage which has to be improved. One of the reasons for not consuming the tablet was fear of side effects, but only 1.6% had side effect.
A comparative cross-sectional study among pregnant and nonpregnant women on stress related to COVID-19 in Hyderabad, Telangana
Authors: Anjum Shabnam , Mohiuddin Syed Ahmed , Kenche Bhavani
Published: May 2024

Background:

Pregnancy is a fragile state, and it is prone to anxiety and depression which may affect the outcome of pregnancy. Due to the unprecedented COVID pandemic, health-care services were limited to emergency care which hampered mental well-being of pregnant women.

Objective:

The present study was aimed to assess the stress related to COVID-19 in pregnant and nonpregnant women.

Subjects and Methods:

It was a field-based comparative cross-sectional study, conducted in the urban field practicing area of Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad, Telangana, for a period of 3 months during the second wave of the COVID pandemic, among 120 pregnant and 120 nonpregnant women. The questionnaire consisted of sociodemographic details, experiences with COVID-19 and lockdown, KAP on COVID-19, impact on health-care services, and various stress scales (Perceived Stress Scale [PSS], Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), and World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule [DAS] 2.0).

Results:

Majority of the study population were in the 18–35 years of age group; there were higher PSS mean score, GAD-7 mean Score, and DAS 2.0 mean score, among pregnant women compared nonpregnant women. PSS mean score for pregnant women was 18.80 ± 3.779 and for nonpregnant women was 12.50 ± 3.098 (P < 0.00001). GAD-7 mean score for pregnant women was 5.50 ± 3.087 and for nonpregnant women was 2.20 ± 1.804 (P < 0.00001). DAS 2.0 mean score for pregnant women was 22.87 ± 7.033 and for nonpregnant women was 16.10 ± 6.432 (P < 0.00001). Practices of preventive measures of COVID-19 were appropriate among both the groups.

Conclusion:

Although both the groups were affected mentally by the pandemic, stress, anxiety, and disability were common among the pregnant women.
Osteometric analysis of human adult dry tibia at a Medical College in South India: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Banu Jahira , Sakthivel Sulochana
Published: May 2024

Background:

In the domains of forensic science, anatomy, archaeology, and sports medicine, morphometric data of long bones are important. The morphometry of the tibia is essential for the successful outcome of total knee arthroplasty. The lower end of the tibia, which forms the ankle joint, is commonly impacted in accidents and sports injuries.

Objective:

The present study aims to reappraise the morphometry of the adult dry tibia in South India.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 60 bones of adult human dry tibia obtained from the bone collection of the department of anatomy. Various parameters of the upper end, shaft, and lower end of the tibia were measured using a digital Vernier caliper.

Results:

The tibial length varied from 32.7 to 42.7 cm, with a mean length of 36.79 ± 2.24. The Cnemic index, Foraminal index, Length–thickness index, and Cross-section index were 72.57 ± 11, 32.1 ± 3.3, 75.7 ± 11.1, and 22.95 ± 1.53, respectively. According to the foraminal index, 75% of the bones belonged to Type-1 and 25% to Type-2, where the nutrient foramen was in the proximal and middle third of the bone, respectively.

Conclusions:

The present study gives observational morphometric data of the tibia, which will be helpful in clinical as well as in medicolegal cases. These parameters will help in the selection of the correct prosthesis for a successful surgery, and we hope this morphometric analysis will have substantial significance across various disciplines.
Sirenomelia
Authors: Wilson Sijin , Geethalakshmi U. , Gupta Ruchika , Harish Chaitra
Published: May 2024

Sirenomelia or mermaid syndrome is a rare and lethal malformation. It is characterized by a single lower limb with various degrees of fusion, single umbilical artery, urogenital abnormalities, and absent external genitalia. Two major mechanisms proposed in its pathogenesis are the vascular steal hypothesis and the defective blastogenesis hypothesis. Here, we introduce a 24-year-old female first-born neonate with mermaid syndrome. She had severe oligohydramnios and a history of consumption of some unknown medication for the treatment of alopecia.
Effect of Malaria on Biochemical and Hematological Parameters
Authors: Ayyadevara Rambabu
Published: May 2024

Background:

Alterations in biochemical and hematological are found to be dependent on type of parasite of malaria, endemicity of the area, various demographic factors, and nutritional status of the person, immunity to the malaria, and presence or absence of hemoglobinopathies. Hence, if these parameters are monitored during clinical illness of malaria, they are of great importance to the treating physician to take a decision on prognosis and further management of the cases. They can even assess the severity of the malaria based on changes in these biochemical and hematological parameters.

Objective:

To study the effect of malaria on biochemical and hematological parameters.

Methods:

During the study period, 40 confirmed cases of malaria and 10 negative controls were investigated. Their hematological, biochemical, and liver parameters and electrolytes were compared. Unpaired t-test and analysis of variance were applied to study the intergroup comparisons.

Results:

Hemoglobin, red blood cells, platelets, lymphocytes, basophils, and monocytes were significantly decreased in cases, but neutrophils were significantly more in cases (P < 0.05). Sodium, potassium, and chlorides were significantly decreased in cases (P < 0.05). Creatinine, total cholesterol, total bilirubin, and direct bilirubin were significantly increased in cases (P < 0.05). Serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase, serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase were significantly increased in cases, but total proteins and albumin were significantly decreased in cases (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Malaria had a significant impact on biochemical, liver, hematological parameters, and electrolytes. Hence, they should be regularly monitored in all admitted cases of malaria, which will help the treating physician to take appropriate decision on clinical management of the disease.
Medication adherence among known adult type-II diabetics and its association with glycemic control at a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Eda Shashikala , Motgi Somnath , Singh Thakur Rohith
Published: May 2024

Background:

Diabetes can be managed well by adherence to prescribed oral hypoglycemic agents (OHAs) and/or insulin. Between 33% and 69% of all medication-related hospital admissions in the US are due to poor medication adherence, at a cost ranging from ≥100 to ≥300 annually.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to study the prevalence of poor medication adherence among known diabetics and its association between poor medication adherence and glycemic control among adults known type II diabetes.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was carried out among 225 adults with known type II diabetes. Known diabetics with type II and adults above the age of 30 years taking treatment at Malla Reddy Hospital were included in the study. Morisky Green Levine Medication Adherence Scale (MGLS) was used to assess patients' adherence to diabetic medications. The American College of Physicians guidelines on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was used to classify glycemic control.

Results:

The majority (40%) were 60–69 years, males (64%) and (69.3%) were from urban areas. 37.8% were illiterate. 47.6% were doing business or service. The majority (82.7%) had diabetes for >5 years. As per the American College of Physicians guidelines, HbA1c should be kept at 7%–8% for diabetics. Accordingly, only 16.4% had HbA1c levels of <8%. The majority were using OHA only (80.4%). As per MGLS classification, only 29.3% had high adherence. 57.8% were found to have intermediate adherence and 12.9% had low adherence. The mean levels of HbA1c were significantly higher in those with low medication adherence (13.01 ± 1.3) compared to those with intermediate and high adherence (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The poor medication adherence was high in the present study. It was affecting glycemic control. It was significantly associated with the poor glycemic control.
A study of rifampicin and isoniazid resistance in pulmonary tuberculosis patients with various radiological presentations at a designated microscopy center
Authors: Lal Roshan , Shekhar Chandra , Kumar Neeraj , Chandrakar Kajal
Published: May 2024

Background:

Correlation between chest X-ray findings and drug resistance can provide valuable guide for physicians working at low-resource settings.

Objective:

To study tuberculosis (TB) drug sensitivity pattern as per the radiological presentation.

Materials and Methods:

A hospital-based prospective study was conducted among 67 newly diagnosed sputum-positive pulmonary TB patients who never took anti-TB treatment. They were subjected to history, systemic examination, radiology, and sputum smear examination. Ten patterns of chest X-ray were studied in the present study, which was not studied before. Chest X-ray radiology pattern was correlated with the drug resistance.

Results:

Isoniazid (INH) monoresistance was present in 11.9% of patients. 1.5% had rifampicin (RIF) resistance but no INH resistance. RIF and INH both resistance (multidrug-resistant [MDR]) was present in 7.5% of cases. Pattern Four was the most common radiological presentation in our patients being present in 20 (29.9%) patients. In this pattern, bacteria of 5.0% were RIF resistant. 15.0% were INH resistant, and 5.0% were both RIF and INH resistant (MDR). RIF resistance was most common in chest X-ray PA view with “Pattern Two” being present in bacteria of 21.42% of patients.

Conclusion:

Radiological patterns 2, 3, and 4 were highly correlated with the multidrug resistance, but it was not statistically significant. Patients' chest X-ray showing these patterns can be suspected to have MDR-TB and sent for further evaluation for early diagnosis and treatment of MDR-TB, which will give us good outcome. Further studies on this hypothesis should be conducted with bigger sample size to throw more light in this field.
Role of valgus osteotomy in old fracture neck of femur
Authors: Mohanty Tanmoy , Choudhury Suvam , Sahoo Braja Sundar , Maharaj Ramesh Chandra , Nanda Debi Prasad
Published: May 2024

Background:

Nonunion fracture of the neck of the femur remains an unsolved issue owing to peculiar vascular anatomy and the relationship of weight transmission to fracture pattern stability. Salvaging the viable biological head is more preferable than replacement to avoid revision surgeries, especially in young adults.

Objective:

This study was designed to evaluate the outcome of old fractured necks of femur patients who underwent osteosynthesis through valgus osteotomy.

Materials and Methods:

We did a retrospective cohort study and collected the data for old fracture neck of the femur from 2010 to 19 from hospital records who underwent valgus osteotomy (McMurray's and Pauwel's osteotomy) and followed them for complications. The Student's t-test was used to compare the results of the two methods, i.e., McMurray's and Pauwel's.

Results:

About 83.3% of cases were of Pauwel's Type II and III groups. In cases that underwent McMurray's osteotomy, the mean shortening was 0.9 cm. Forty percentage had a full range of movements (ROM), 60% had occasional pain, 20% had complications such as screw back out, trochanteric bursitis, and 10% had avascular necrosis of the head femur. In cases that underwent Pauwel's osteotomy had a mean shortening of 1.5 cm, 20.83% had full ROM, 62.5% had limping, 45.5% had pain, 25% had screw back out, and infection in 25. Two cases underwent trans-fracture abduction osteotomy, so results are not discussed.

Conclusions:

We found that valgus osteotomy showed promising results and was comparable with the results of acceptable literature. Hence, it is suggested that osteosynthesis rather than arthroplasty should be the preferred method of treatment for old fractures of the neck of the femur.
Test positivity rate, contact history, and vaccination status of COVID-19 among patients visiting flu corner (fever clinic) of a tertiary care health center of Karnataka
Authors: Wilson Sijin , Koppad Raghavendraswamy , Nagendra Kanchana , Kumari Sakshi , Liana C. , Joseph Ceethal Anna
Published: May 2024

Background:

In December 2019, patients with viral pneumonia-like illnesses were found to be infected with the coronavirus. The spread of COVID-19 infection continues unabated even after vaccination has begun. A study done on health-care workers who were vaccinated reported mild symptomatic breakthrough infection. Studies on breakthrough infections, their severity, and outcome have not been widely done in India.

Objectives:

This study estimates the COVID-19 test positivity rate among patients reporting to the flu corner of a tertiary care center, their contact history, vaccination status, and the rate of breakthrough infection among the cases.

Methodology:

A prospective longitudinal study was done on people who presented to the flu corner of McGANN Teaching District Hospital, Shivamogga, in June 2021. Preliminary data were collected through direct interviews. Later positive cases of COVID-19 were followed up till a documented clinical outcome. Responses were made into a database and descriptive statistics were done.

Results:

The test positivity rate of COVID-19 is 25%. Around 16% of the people who tested positive were asymptomatic. One out of four of the participants was vaccinated with at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Around 15% of the vaccinated people tested positive.

Conclusion:

Our study found that the test positivity rate at our tertiary hospital is higher than the district average. A single dose of COVID-19 vaccination does not seem to be protective against contracting COVID-19 infections. These findings need to be verified through studies in different settings.
Clinical profile of COVID-19 patients and association between morbidities and mortality due to COVID-19 at a tertiary care center
Authors: Dhoble Manjusha Ashwinkumar , Dhurve Priya Prabhakar , Murari Hema , Patle Rupali Amarkantak
Published: May 2024

Background:

The globe has faced a number of challenges in recent years from viral epidemics brought on by newly developing zoonotic diseases, particularly the coronavirus family of viruses. Patients with COVID-19 disease are more likely to experience a more severe course and progression of the disease if they also have comorbid conditions such as hypertension or diabetes mellitus. Hence, the present study was carried out to study the clinical characteristics of COVID-19 patients and the association between COVID-19-related morbidities and mortality in a tertiary care center.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to study the clinical profile of COVID-19 patients and the relationship between COVID-19-related morbidities and death at a tertiary care facility.

Methodology:

The present study was a cross-sectional study which was carried out in the tertiary care hospital of Central India from March 2020 to August 2021 on 11,201 patients.

Results:

Among the 11,201 study subjects, 6755 (60.31%) were males and 4446 (39.69%) were females. The majority of the study subjects, 2428 (21.68%), were between the age group of 51–60 years. Cough was the major presenting complaint found in 5243 (46.81%) study subjects. Hypertension was the main morbid condition in 2249 (20.08%) study subjects. Among the 11,201 admitted patients, 8763 (78.23%) were discharged, and in 2438 (21.77%) study subjects, the outcome was death.

Conclusions:

Since morbid conditions such as diabetes and hypertension were more prevalent and it affects more in COVID-19 disease mortality.
Assessment of infrastructure and status of biomedical waste management in primary health-care facilities in a district of West Bengal, India
Authors: Dey Supriya , Ghosh Ritu , Mondal Sayantan , Mallik Sarmila
Published: May 2024

Background:

The absence of proper waste management, lack of awareness about the health hazards from biomedical wastes, insufficient financial and human resources, and poor control of waste disposal are the most critical problems connected with biomedical waste management (BMWM).

Objectives:

The objectives of this study were to assess the infrastructure available for BMWM in primary health-care facilities in Murshidabad district of West Bengal and to find out the gaps in the management.

Materials and Methods:

This descriptive, observational, facility-based mixed method study with cross-sectional design was conducted in primary health-care facilities selected by multistage random sampling technique. In-depth interview was done with important stakeholders related to BMWM at block, subdivision, and district level.

Results:

The gaps were identified related to infrastructure, logistic supply, and workforce resources in the studied primary health-care facilities. Segregation at source and disposal of biomedical waste were improper. Training on BMWM and posttraining evaluation were also seen deficient. Information, education, and communication materials and proper record keeping were seen to be absent with lack of supervision.

Conclusion:

Logistics supply with emphasis on the supply chain with proper allocation of the fund at the primary health-care level should be ensured. Filling up of the vacancies of the Group D staff is essential. Training of health workers with supervision and monitoring by block and district officials needs to be strengthened for efficient BMWM.
Role of parenteral iron sucrose in the treatment of iron-deficiency anemia in pregnant women of gestational age 20–34 weeks
Authors: Deepthisri T. , Chaitanya N. , Rohin
Published: May 2024

Background:

Anemia is responsible directly or indirectly for 40%–60% of maternal deaths from cardiac failure, hemorrhage, infection, and preeclampsia. It also increases perinatal mortality and morbidity rates consequent to preterm deliveries, intrauterine growth restriction, low iron stores, iron-deficiency anemia, and cognitive and affective dysfunction in the infant.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to study the efficacy of intravenous iron sucrose in terms of hemoglobin rise and side effects.

Materials and Methods:

Single-center, hospital-based comparative prospective study was conducted among 60 patients admitted with anemia in pregnancy with a hemoglobin concentration of 7.5–9 g/dl. Blood samples were sent for evaluation of hemoglobin, packed cell volume (PCV), and serum ferritin levels at baseline, at 4, and 8 weeks.

Results:

Mean age was 29.08 ± 5.74 years. About 51.7% belonged to the middle social class. Most were gravida III (36.7%). About 46.7% had 20–24 weeks of gestations. Seventy-five percent had microcytic hypochromic anemia. Hemoglobin improved significantly (P < 0.05) from 8.76 ± 0.54 g% at baseline to 11.47 ± 0.85 g% at 4 weeks, and to 12.68 ± 1.04 g% at 8 weeks; PCV also improved significantly (P < 0.05) from 26.78 ± 3.11% to 34.64 ± 3.73% at 4 weeks and again improved to 42.50 ± 4.67% at 8 weeks; serum ferritin also improved significantly (P < 0.05) from 23.06 ± 7.96 μg/l to 28.86 ± 9.79 μg/l at 4 weeks and again improved to 36.31 ± 12.53 at 8 weeks after parenteral iron sucrose therapy. Only one pregnant woman complained of vomiting and only four women complained of pain at the site of injection after giving parenteral iron sucrose therapy. About 91.6% of the women had no complaints.

Conclusion:

Parenteral iron sucrose therapy in pregnant women with a gestational age of 20–34 weeks with iron-deficiency anemia was found effective in improving the hemoglobin, PCV, and serum ferritin with negligible side effects.
The study of first-trimester vaginal bleeding and its maternal and perinatal outcomes at a tertiary care center in Hyderabad
Authors: Chaitanya N. , Deepthisri T. , Rohin
Published: May 2024

Background:

Among all those pregnancies with first-trimester vaginal bleeding, nearly half of them terminate into a pregnancy loss. In case the pregnancy continues, it may result in some complications such as intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), preterm prelabor rupture of membrane (PPROM), preterm delivery, placental abruption, and preeclampsia.

Objective:

The objective was to study the pregnancy outcomes in first-trimester vaginal bleeding.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective observational study was done on 100 antenatal women who attended our hospital for delivery and had a history of first-trimester vaginal bleeding. All women were evaluated for pregnancy outcomes including pregnancy-induced hypertension, anemia, abruption, preterm labor, premature rupture of membrane (PROM), PPROM, IUGR, and placenta previa and neonatal outcomes in the form of birth weight and APGAR score.

Results:

Ninety-nine percentage of cases had viable outcome, and only one case had abortion after 20 weeks. Sixteen percentage had fetal growth restriction (IUGR), fifteen percentage had anemia, 14% had preterm labor, 12% had gestational hypertension, 11% had PROMs, 4% had preterm PROMs, and 2% had placental abruption and placenta previa. Among 16 patients who developed IUGR, 31% had abnormal Doppler and 69% had normal Doppler. Sixty percentage of patients delivered after 37 weeks. One case each of postpartum hemorrhage and perinatal death were observed.

Conclusions:

First-trimester vaginal bleeding is an important factor in predicting late pregnancy maternal and fetal outcomes. These pregnancies should be considered high risk, and antenatal care should be given carefully. Pregnant women need to be trained regarding the associated complications and their timely management.
Comparative study to assess the lifestyle disease risk factors among high school students of government and private schools in Tirupati
Authors: Guthi Visweswara Rao , Monika C. V. , Kondagunta Nagaraj
Published: May 2024

Background:

Adolescence is a transitional period of life between childhood and adulthood characterized by marked acceleration of growth both physically and mentally.

Objectives:

The objective of the study was to assess the lifestyle disease risk factors among high school students of government schools as compared to high school students of private schools.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study conducted among high school students of both government and private schools for a period of 2 months in Tirupati. Among 4 government and 4 private schools, 884 high school students were included in the study. A pretested semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect information from students. This includes sociodemographic details, and lifestyle disease risk factors related to knowledge and practices were assessed. Weight and height were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure were measured with manual sphygmomanometer.

Results:

Eight hundred and eighty-four students of age between 12 and 16 years were included in the study. Among them, 438 (49.5%) were in private schools and 446 (50.5%) were in government schools. Among all students, 1.1% (9/884) reported that they smoke tobacco products in the past 30 days and 2.3% (20/884) reported smoke tobacco products at any time in life. Most of the private school students (66.4%) were doing regular exercise compared to government school students (56.3%). The mean BMI was significantly high among private school students (18.9 ± 4.3) compared to government school students (18.1 ± 3.9).

Conclusions:

School is an important place where adolescent behavior was developed and provides environment that influences the development of behavior. The study shows that both government and private school students are equally exposed to risk factors of lifestyle diseases. Therefore, it is recommended that combined and coordinated efforts of health and education departments were required for the primary and primordial prevention of lifestyle diseases.
Challenges faced by accredited social health activist workers in delivering health-care services during COVID-19 lockdowns
Authors: Mohiuddin Syed Ahmed , Butool Shadan , Kenche Bhavani
Published: May 2024

Background:

COVID-19 pandemic has impacted every aspect of life. Health-care workers and health-care delivery were affected the most. Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) workers are the backbone of health-care system in India as they are involved in grass root level activities. They have been at the forefront of India's emergency health response system. Lockdowns disrupted day-to-day activities, and delivery of health-care services became a huge challenge.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to identify the challenges faced by ASHA workers while delivering health-care services during the COVID-19 lockdowns.

Subjects and Methods:

A qualitative study in the form of focus group discussion (FGD) was carried out among the ASHA workers of urban and rural field practice areas. Two FGDs-one each in urban and rural area were conducted. Discussions were about 50–60 min.

Results:

The collected data were analyzed by translation and transcription. The transcripted data was divided into topics and subtopics using NVivo version 12. Topics were fear and social stigma, job-related concerns, difficulties in the community, issues in reaching the center, and financial worries.

Conclusion:

The present study found that the paucity of transport, workload, late payment, and overtime are the biggest hindrances and challenges for ASHA workers in carrying out their work efficiently. Challenges faced by ASHA workers can be solved within the existing framework of the health-care system. However, addressing the issues they have faced will help combat future epidemics and pandemics.
Ramsay Hunt syndrome with cranial polyneuropathy
Authors: Gupta Manish , Gupta Monica , Gupta Akanksha
Published: May 2024

Unilateral facial nerve palsy and vestibulocochlear neuropathy due to herpes zoster are named Ramsay Hunt syndrome (RHS). Rarely, this infection may affect multiple cranial nerves concurrently. Through this report, we are describing a case of RHS, where the VII, VIII, IX, and X cranial nerves were involved simultaneously. This 65-year-old man presented with right lower motor neuron facial nerve palsy, hoarseness, dysphagia, hearing deficit, and vertigo following painful vesicular eruptions on his right ear. Systemic corticosteroids and antiviral agents were administered, subsequent to which the patient improved with the resolution of all the symptoms and signs.
A cross sectional study on awareness about risk factors of cancer cervix among women of reproductive age in the rural field practice area of a medical college
Authors: Naaz Rabiha , Gorantla Misha , Kenche Bhavani
Published: May 2024

Background:

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women with an estimated. 6,04,000 new cases in 2020 representing 66% of all female cancers. It is the leading cause of cancer-related death among women.

Objectives:

To assess the awareness about risk factors of cancer cervix and factors associated with it.

Subjects and Methods:

This is a community-based cross-sectional study done in rural field practice area of a Medical College, Hyderabad, Telangana from March to June, among all consenting women in reproductive age group. Data were collected using a predesigned semi-structured questionnaire which contains questions on sociodemographic factors, reproductive risk factors such as age at marriage, prolong use of OCPs, and multiple births.

Results:

Out of the 270 females, respondents belonged majorly to 25 − 34 years age group. About 76.2% of the respondents (206/270) had heard about cervical cancer, of the 76.2% of the study subjects who had heard about cancer cervix, none of them were aware about pap test and vaccination for human papilloma virus (HPV) which is meant to prevent cancer cervix.

Conclusion:

The study showed that women had a fair knowledge about risk factors and symptoms of cancer cervix. Awareness on screening tests, i.e., pap test, HPV vaccinations was poor.
Prevalence and determinants of refractive error and related ocular morbidities among Saudi adolescence population in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Yasir Ziaul Haq , Basakran Fatimah Abdullah , Alhumaid Nora Ali , Balous Malek Abdulrahman , Banaeem Abdulrahman Salem , Al-Shangiti Ahmad Khaled , Khandekar Rajiv
Published: May 2024

PURPOSE:

The purpose of this study was to determine the magnitude and determinants of refractive error (RE) and related ocular morbidities among preparatory and secondary Saudi students in Riyadh.

METHODS:

This study was conducted in 2017–2018 at preparatory (12–14 years) and secondary (15–18 years) schools. A “Spot Screener” was used to determine if the child passed or failed a refraction test. Fail test meant RE ≥ ± 0.50 D. Data were collected on refractive status in each eye, anisometropia, and strabismus. The type of RE was estimated and analysis was performed for an association to gender, age, and education levels. The use of spectacle while screening defined the compliance of spectacle wear.

RESULTS:

The study sample was comprised of 708 Saudi students. There were 59.5% of boys. The prevalence of RE was 43.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 40.0, 47.3). The prevalence of RE in preparatory and secondary students was 44.5% and 43.2%, respectively. The proportion of myopia (≥ −0.5 D) and hyperopia (≥ +0.5 D) among students with RE was 82.2% and 17.8%, respectively. Family history of RE was positively associated to RE in students (odds ratio: 1.8 [95% CI: 1.3, 2.5]). The current screening initiative identified 45 (6.4%) new cases of RE who required spectacles. The compliance rate for using visual aid among students with RE was 74.6%. The prevalence of anisometropia and strabismus was 3.0% and 4.1%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

A high proportion of Saudi adolescence in Riyadh have RE. Periodic ophthalmic assessment and refractive services are recommended as part of school health screening initiatives.
Correlation between retinal nerve fiber layer thickness and anterior segment parameters in patients with pseudoexfoliation: A cross-sectional comparative study
Authors: Rathinam Nithya , Kasturi Nirupama , Kaliaperumal Subashini , Jayaseelan Venkatachalam
Published: May 2024

PURPOSE:

The purpose of this study was to assess the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in patients with pseudoexfoliation (PXF) and to correlate it with anterior segment parameters such as intraocular pressure (IOP), central corneal thickness (CCT), pigments in angle structures, and grades of PXF.

METHODOLOGY:

This was a cross-sectional comparative study in a tertiary care center. Patients having unilateral PXF were categorized as group 1. Age- and sex-matched healthy controls were categorized as group 2. All subjects underwent IOP measurement, CCT measurement, and retinal nerve fiber thickness measurement. Subjects in group 1 also underwent gonioscopy and perimetry. Data were entered and analyzed using the IBM-SPSS program (version 20.0); Chicago, IL.

RESULTS:

Mean RNFL thickness in group 1 was 85.91 ± 22.237 μ and in group 2 was 106.65 ± 6.1 μ. The mean RNFL thickness in patients with PXF syndrome was 103.38 ± 5.815 μ and in patients with PXF glaucoma was 67.82 ± 17.984 μ. The mean CCT in patients with PXF syndrome was 516.41 ± 23.03 μ and in patients with PXF glaucoma was 507 ± 33.05 μ and control group was 526.6 m. The mean IOP in patients with PXF syndrome was 8 ± 6.01 mmHg; in patients with PXF glaucoma was 17.21 ± 7.33 mmHg; and in the control group was 14.12 ± 2.693 mmHg. There was a negative correlation between IOP and RNFL thickness, and a positive correlation between CCT and RNFL thickness, but it was not statistically significant. A statistically significant correlation was found between grades of PXF and RNFL thinning with a correlation coefficient of 0.437 (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION:

Patients with PXF have a lower CCT, higher mean IOP, and RNFL thinning compared to normal subjects. The presence of grade 3 PXF (on the lens surface edge) showed a statistically significant correlation with RNFL thinning.