bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IJCM_389A: A community based cross-sectional study on perception, attitude, and stigma towards mental illness among the rural community in Mangalore
Authors: Rekha T , Simin Halima , Raj Nithin Krishna K , Nayana  , Joy Jewel K , Shetty Sharan K. , Unnikrishnan Bhaskaran , Mithra Prasanna , Holla Ramesh
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Mental disorder is a behavioral pattern which causes either suffering or poor ability to function in ordinary life. According to WHO health report 2022, 970 million people suffer from mental illness globally. 80% people with mental illness live in low and middle-income countries, which is a matter of concern for India being the most populated country in the world. This study aims to assess the attitude and perception of people towards mental illness and to identify the presence of stigma towards mental illness in the community.

Methodology:

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 320 individuals aged above 18 years from Jeppinamogaru, Boloor, Shiv Nagar and Neermarga of Mangalore. Data was collected using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire of the CAMI scale rates a total of 40 items on a 5-point Likert scale (1 = strongly agree to 5 = strongly disagree) and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Results were expressed as proportions using appropriate tables and graphs. P< 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results:

Out of 320 individuals assessed, 73.1% were females, with 50% aged over 45 years. The lower middle class constituted 35.3%, while only 0.6% belonged to the lower class. Awareness of mental illnesses was low, with only 42 individuals (13%) are knowledgeable. Most relied on behavior to identify mental illness, and 54.1% favored hospital treatment. 31.6% believed mental illness was genetically inherited as it is running through families. Medium stigma was prevalent across all domains of the CAMI scale, with the least stigma observed among the upper class.

Conclusions:

The study revealed low to medium level of stigma toward mental illness among lower and upper middle-class SEC individuals, alongside insufficient knowledge about mental health issues. Addressing these gaps, necessitates community awareness campaigns, enhanced education in schools, and increased accessibility to community-based mental health services and health camps.
IJCM_390A: A study to assess body weight perception, weight control practices, and their association with menstruation among adolescent girls in the rural field practice area of Bangalore medical college and research institute
Authors: Lakshmikanth N , Thangaraj Selvi , Ranganath TS
Published: April 2024

Background:

Adolescent girls are concerned about their weight, physical appearance, and how society perceives them. The identities they seek and create in this phase influence society and their peers. In this process, a lot of Emotional, Biological, and Social problems are faced by them. One such problem is Menstrual disorders. Keeping this rationale in mind, the above study was undertaken to Assess Body weight perception, Weight control practices, and their association with Menstruation among Adolescent girls.

Objective:

1. To assess Body weight perception and Weight Control Practices, among Adolescent girls 2. To compare Body weight perception and Weight control practices among Adolescent girls with normal and abnormal Menstrual cycles

Methodology:

A Cross-sectional study was conducted among Adolescent girls residing in the rural field practice area of Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, Bengaluru. A Sample size of 192 was determined based on a previous study done by Bhurtun DD et al, and Simple random sampling was used for participant recruitment. Data collection utilized a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Data analyzed using SPSS 21.0

Results:

Among the 192 participants, based on Body mass index (BMI), 13(6.7%) were Overweight and the rest of the participants 135(70.3%) were of Normal weight. Out of 118(61.5%) respondents reported trying to lose weight, reducing fat intake 100(84.7%) was the most common method. The majority of the Adolescent girls had a positive perception of weight control but had problems accepting their body image as healthy. Body weight perception and Weight control practices affected normal menstrual cycles as well as girls with Menstrual disorders.

Conclusion:

The findings revealed Body weight perception affected the girls with Normal Menstruation as well as with Menstrual disorders. Therefore, Adolescent girls need to be educated on the need for a Healthy body image as well as a Healthy lifestyle.
IJCM_392A: Assessment of the level of Physical activity among school and college going adolescents in the urban field practice area of Guntur Medical College
Authors: Rani Penumaka Sushma , Tulasi P. Naga , Rama A. Sita
Published: April 2024

Background:

Inadequate Physical Activity is a common feature running through most public health problems across the world. Physical activity declines during the lifespan, especially during adolescence. Identifying patterns of physical activity behaviour in adolescent population will help to improve interventions for youth to become and stay active into adulthood.

Objective:

1. To assess the level of physical activity among school and college going adolescents in the urban field practice area of Guntur Medical College. 2. To identify the factors influencing the level of physical activity.

Methodology:

This cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out among 300 adolescents (aged 10 to 19 years) attending government schools or junior colleges. One school and one college from the field practice area were selected by simple random sampling whereas students from each class were selected by stratified random sampling. A pre-tested, pre-designed semi-structured questionnaire adapted from the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) and the Physical Activity Questionnaire- Adolescent (PAQ-A) was used for collecting data on physical activity.

Results:

30.3% of the adolescents were practicing low physical activity. Level of physical activity was significantly associated with gender, academic grade, father’s schooling, availability of facilities in the neighbourhood, and availability of facilities at home. Among adolescents who are practicing low physical activity, 76.1% reported lack of time as the barrier.

Conclusion:

A substantial proportion of the adolescents are practicing low physical activity varying across different factors viz., gender, academic grade, availability of facilities in neighborhood or at home.
IJCM_397A: A Cross-Sectional Study on Dietary Intake In Relation To Sleep Quality Among Undergraduate Engineering Students
Authors: Kumaran K , Sujatha P. , Sravani A , Madhavi B. Devi
Published: April 2024

Background:

Sleep is an important resting state and essential part of life that could have effect on many aspects of life. Life style factors such as physical activity and consumption of certain foods have effect on quality and quantity of sleep. In this context, there were very few studies done in comparing dietary intake & sleep pattern. So, the present study is planned to be conducted among undergraduate engineering students.

Objective:

1. To assess the dietary intake and sleep patterns among undergraduate students. 2. To determine the relationship between dietary intake and sleep quality.

Methodology:

A Cross-sectional analytical study was done among the undergraduate students of a government engineering college in November 2023. Students (n=200) were randomly selected and data was collected using pre-tested, semi structured questionnaire to assess the dietary intake and Pittsburgh sleep quality index questionnaire (PSQI) to assess sleep quality.

Results:

The mean age of the study population was 20.2 Â± 1.6 years and 54.5% were female. Sleep quality was fairly good among 58%, good in 29%,fairly bad in 11.5%,and very bad in 1.5%. Participants skipping breakfast, lunch and dinner more than three times a week was reported to be 21%,10%, and 16.5% respectively.

Conclusion:

The quality and quantity of sleep can be influenced by the eating habits. Specific awareness regarding sleep and food intake should be created among the students, as in the long run NCD s can be prevented and to form a healthy nation.
IJCM_398A: A cross-sectional study on morbidity patterns and health behavior among construction workers in Mangalore
Authors: Rekha T , Singh Vibhu Pratap , Harigovind P , Baker Abu , Rahim Rebin M. , Prateeksh B.K , Rahul K , Unnikrishnan Bhaskaran , Mithra Prasanna , Kumar Nithin , Holla Ramesh
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

The construction industry is one of the most stable growing industries in the developing world. In India, it is the largest economic activity after agriculture. Since it is a labor-intensive industry, it consists of organized, unorganized, skilled, and unskilled labor. Morbidity is departure from a state of physical or psychological well-being, resulting from disease, illness, injury, or sickness, especially where the affected individual is aware of his or her condition which is more common among these workers. This study aims to assess the morbidity Pattern and health behavior among construction workers in a coastal block of Karnataka state.

Methodology:

This community based cross-sectional study was conducted among 230 manual labor workers at different construction sites in Mangalore. Data was collected using interview schedule and analyzed using SPSS version 24. Results were expressed as proportions using appropriate tables and graphs. Chi-square test will be used and P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results:

In the study majority were males aged 19-29 years, Hindu by religion 84%, and unmarried, with minimum of primary educational qualification and work experience of 1-5 years. The most prevalent morbidity was Musculo skeletal disorders which manifest as constant arthralgia, myalgia followed by ophthalmic manifestation like refractive errors. Hypertension was notable, with communicable diseases like Malaria being common morbidities. Tobacco and alcohol consumption were prevalent, but knowledge on preventive measures against mosquito bites and personal hygiene practices were limited. Safety precautions at construction sites were evident as it is mandatory.

Conclusions:

The study highlighted prevalent morbidity patterns among construction workers in Mangalore, which seek immediate remedial measures. Improving awareness and intervention regarding the health risks associated with tobacco and alcohol consumption pose significant challenges but are crucial for enhancing workers’ well-being aa well as hygiene practices.
IJCM_401A: Study of patterns and associated factors of occupational injuries among the people seeking health care in the urban area of Mangalore
Authors: Mithra Prasanna , Unnikrishnan Bhaskaran , Rekha T , Kumar Nithin , Holla Ramesh , Motappa Rohith , Rao Mithun
Published: April 2024

Background:

Injuries occurring at the workplace are among the most important health concerns these days. This study was done to study the patterns of compensations available to those seeking health care for occupational injuries and to assess the level of implementation of occupational safety measures in their workplaces.

Methodology:

This cross-sectional study was undertaken in the hospitals affiliated to Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, and Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) Hospital, Mangalore included all adults who were seeking health care for occupational injuries during the study period. A pre-tested semi-structured proforma, which included employment details, working conditions, type/s of injuries, availability & utility of Personal Protective Devices, and Compensations availed for health reasons was used and the collected data were analysed using SPSS version 25. The results were expressed as proportions. To compare the groups, the Chi-square test was used and p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

The study included 164 patients with a mean age of 38.6 years (SD: 9.85). Overall, 92.1% did not have any pre-employment training regarding PPEs applicable to their work. Also, 81.7% of the employers did not provide any PPEs. But among Government sector employees, 77.8% of their employers provided them with PPEs. The proportion was highest among Government employees when compared to others regarding the provision of PPEs. This difference across the groups was statistically significant (p<0.0001).

Conclusion:

High number of injuries at the workplace were related to the musculoskeletal system. Awareness and use of PPEs at the workplace were poor among the study population.
IJCM_402A: Assessment of sleep quality and risk factors associated with poor sleep quality among medical students- A cross sectional study
Authors: Prathyusha D.V.S. , Chaitanya G.
Published: April 2024

Background:

Sleep is a periodic resting state of natural arousable unconsciousness of body and mind, which leads to the returning of body and mind. A good sleep has been shown to be essential component of health, and its deprivation linked to various diseases. Sleep deprivation is defined as getting inadequate sleep, less than 7-9 hours per day. Although, sleep deprivation is generally a disorder of elderly and sick, it has increasingly been reported among college students and is considered a global health problem

Objective:

To evaluate sleep quality among medical students and identify risk factors associated with poor sleep quality among them.

Methodology:

Study design: Cross sectional study, Study setting: GITAM Institute of medical sciences and research, Study population :Medical students from MBBS first year to final year, Study period:2 months, Inclusion criteria :Medical students of 1st,2nd,3rd,4th year Exclusion criteria: Students who has not given consent Sampling method: Convenient sampling method Sample size: prevalence=68.6%==176, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scale was used to measure sleep quality. SPSS software is used for analysis.

Results:

The mean age of study participants is 20±4. PSQI score is Good sleep in 24.4%, Fairly good sleep in 49.4%,Fairly bad sleep in 10.8%,Poor sleep in 15.3%.

Conclusion:

Poor sleep quality among medical students is 26.1%,factors associated are mobile use and presence of chronic illness.
IJCM_403A: Breakfast Skipping: Proportion and Awareness of its Effects Among Medical Students
Authors: Vaibhav Swayam , Thomas Shilpa , Palki  , Chaudhary Nikita , Kalyani P. , Rekha T , Unnikrishnan Bhaskaran , Mithra Prasanna , Kumar Nithin , Holla Ramesh
Published: April 2024

Background:

Breakfast is considered the most important meal of the day, providing essential nutrients and energy needed for daily activities. Skipping breakfast has been associated with various health complications, including impaired cognitive function and increased risk of chronic diseases. Understanding the prevalence and reasons behind breakfast skipping among medical students is crucial for promoting healthy habits and overall well-being.

Objectives:

This study aimed to determine the proportion of medical students skipping breakfast, assess awareness about the importance of breakfast consumption, and explore associated factors such as gender and academic semester.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among medical undergraduates at Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 285 students from the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th year MBBS classes. Convenience sampling was used, and data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests.

Results:

Of the 285 students surveyed, 53% reported skipping breakfast. Reasons for skipping included waking up late (77.48%), dissatisfaction with available food options (44.37%), and lack of appetite (21.85%). While most students were aware of the negative effects of breakfast skipping on cognitive function and mood, fewer recognized its association with cardiovascular problems and menstrual irregularities. Significant associations were found between breakfast skipping and academic semester, with 6th-semester students exhibiting the highest prevalence. However, no significant gender differences were observed.

Conclusion:

The study highlights a concerning prevalence of breakfast skipping among medical students, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to promote healthy breakfast habits.
IJCM_405A: Knowledge, Attitude, Practice Regarding Menstrual Hygiene Among Students Of A Government School, Thrissur, Kerala
Authors: Mahsooma T A , Bkaskar Anitha
Published: April 2024

Background:

Menstrual hygiene practices are consequently a significant public health issue. However, menstrual practices are still tainted by taboos and other sociocultural constraints, which adversely affect health since adolescent females are unaware of the scientific facts regarding menstrual hygiene practices.

Objective:

To determine knowledge, attitude, practice regarding menstrual hygiene among adolescent school girls in a government higher secondary school, Thrissur, Kerala

Methodology:

A cross sectional study was conducted among students of 8th standard to 12th standard in a government higher secondary school Thrissur. The data was collected after obtaining permission from head of the institution and verbal consent from the participants.

Results:

The study was conducted among 237 adolescent girls studying from 8th to 12th standard in a government school in Thrissur. Out of the total study participants 96 % have high knowledge about menstrual hygiene and the rest have moderate knowledge. 77.6% students use sanitary pads as adsorbing material, 15.6 % use cloth and only 6.8 % use menstrual cup. But 62 % have the opinion that menstrual cup is better than pads. 49% of the students believe that menstrual blood is impure and 50 % of students believe that normal routine activities cannot be done during menstruation. Most of the participants (92 %) adopt burning as the method of disposal while 4.2 % were practicing flushing of the pads. 61.2 % students liked to share doubt with mother and 30 % like to share with friends.

Conclusion:

Majority of the students have good knowledge about menstrual hygiene, but the scientific knowledge about menstruation is lacking behind.
IJCM_406A: Association between Empathy and big five personality traits among undergraduate medical students in Mangalore
Authors: Preek Arush , Jaglan Simran , Arora Aditi , Ravi Shashank , Holla Ramesh , Unnikrishnan Bhaskaran , Rekha T , Mithra Prasanna , Kumar Nithin , Motappa Rohith , Rao Mithun
Published: April 2024

Background:

Empathy in the clinical setting is associated with satisfaction among patients, compliance to therapy and much more positive clinical outcome. This study is to determine the level of empathy among undergraduate medical students, the personality traits, according to the big five model, and to assess the association between empathy and personality traits among undergraduate medical students.

Methodology:

It was a descriptive study carried out among Second year MBBS students of Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore. Data was collected using Jefferson Scale of Empathy (medical student version), which is a self- administrative inventory that contains 20 questions. Mini-IPIP scale was used to measure big five personality traits, which is a 20-item short form of the International Personality Item Pool Five Factor Model. The collected data was coded and entered onto statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 25.0. For comparison across the group Pearson coefficient was used.

Results:

A positive correlation was found between the level of empathy and the personality traits of agreeableness and openness among the participants at a significant level using Pearson correlation coefficient. People with more agreeableness, indicative of sympathetic and willingness to help others are proportionately empathic. It was also found that women are more neurotic than men, which infers that women are more social and assertive than men. For openness, men are more open, imaginative and creative than women. For agreeableness, men are more cooperative and concerned than women. Women scored more than men for conscientiousness.

Conclusion:

The study showed a statistically significant difference in the level of empathy among the two genders, with females being more empathic than males. Between the two genders, there was a statistically significant difference among the neuroticism levels, with females being more neurotic than their male counterparts. A positive correlation was found between the level of empathy and the personality traits of agreeableness and openness among the participants.
IJCM_407A: Mortality pattern among adults at a tertiary care centre, Tamil Nadu -a retrospective observational study
Authors: Kasthuri S , Priya S. , Muthuraman Kannan A
Published: April 2024

Background:

Records of vital events like death constitute an important component of the Health Information System. Therefore, these hospital-based death records maintained by Medical Records Department (MRD) can provide information regarding the causes and distribution of deaths, pattern of major illness which are of immense importance in planning health care services. But obtaining meaningful statistics from these records is considerably lacking. Hence, the need of present study.

Objective:

1. To identify the mortality pattern among 18-45 years in tertiary care hospital, Madurai, Tamil Nadu from January to December 2022 2. To evaluate socio-demographic distribution and causes of deaths during that period.

Methodology:

It was an Institution based retrospective observational study. From MRD, Complete enumeration of hospital records of all medically certified deaths of in-patients of 18-45 years who died during January 1st to December 31st 2022 was carried out from May 2023 to August 2023 (n=2038). Data was checked for completeness, entered into Excel sheet and analyzed using SPSS software. Necessary permission was sought from hospital administrative authority to access the hospital records.

Results:

Among 2038 deaths, 72.52% were males, 26.60% belonged to 41 to 45 years of age. After categorization of all deaths, Road Traffic Accident (RTA) constituted the leading cause of death (28.26%; n=576) followed by Respiratory System (RS)(11.68%), CVS(9.22%) and others. Coronary Artery Disease constituted 39.36% deaths among CVS, 63.12% by Cerebrovascular Accidents among CNS and 23.95% by pneumonia among RS and 77.70% by CKD among renal. In all age groups, RTA constitute the major cause of death with maximum mortality among 18 to 25 years. RS and RTA constituted the major cause of mortality among females and males respectively. Significant association observed between age, gender and causes of mortality(P<0.05)

Conclusion:

More stringent measures needed to combat RTA deaths
IJCM_41A: Epidemiology of intussusception hospitalization and its potential risk with Rotasiil among vaccinated children admitted in a tertiary care hospital in South India
Authors: Prabhu Divya Arvind , Kamath Veena G , Vijaykumar B
Published: April 2024

Background:

There is an established well reported link of intussusception with the use of rotavirus vaccines. Little is known about the newly introduced rotasiil vaccine causing intussusception. So, this study has been undertaken to study the epidemiology of intussusception and its potential risk among children vaccinated with Rotasiil vaccine.

Methodology:

A hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of 2 years among children <2 years admitted with confirmed intussusception. A predesigned semi structured questionnaire was used to capture sociodemographic data by interviewing parents and clinical data was collected from hospital records. Vaccination details was extracted from vaccination cards. Data was expressed in percentages and proportions.

Results:

Out of 80 confirmed cases of intussusception 64 (80%) children received rotasiil vaccine. The mean age of the study participants was 12+ 6 months and 67.5% of them were males. Out of the vaccinated children 82.8% and 98.4% of them had received all the doses and only two doses respectively. The median age (IQR) of receiving first, second and third doses was 7.6 (6.9-9.4), 12.9 (11.9-15.4), and 17.9 (16.4-21.8) weeks, respectively. Among them 95.3% of participants had ileocolic type of intussusception and 89% of it was resolved by non-surgical procedures. Within a risk period of 1-21 days postvaccination 1 and 8 cases of intussusception were reported after second and third dose respectively

Conclusion:

There were more number of cases of intussusception observed in the high risk period of 1-21 days after the third dose as compared to that of first and second dose of rotasiil vaccine
IJCM_410A: Prevalence of metabolic syndrome in rural area of District Kangra of Himachal Pradesh
Authors: Singh Nirbhay Narayan , Chauhan Nidhi , Prasad Rajendra , Chauhan Raman
Published: April 2024

Background:

Metabolic risk factors and abnormalities such as obesity and hypertension are rapidly rising in Indian population following widespread change in lifestyle and dietary habits. A study was conducted to estimate the current situation of metabolic syndrome in rural area of Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh.

Objective:

To find out the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in adult population in identified rural area of Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh.

Methodology:

A community based cross-sectional study was conducted among 177 individuals. The relevant anthropometric measurements and laboratory investigations were performed. NCEP ATP III (National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III) guidelines were used to diagnose the metabolic syndrome.

Results:

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in our study was found to be 42.4% (34.99%-50.01%) and was higher among female population (71.8%). The proportion of metabolic syndrome was higher among older age group (66.7%) and only 2.7% in those who were less than 30 years of age.

Conclusion:

The present study documented 42.4% prevalence of metabolic syndrome in rural population, with more prevalence among females. The data was skewed, with more proportion of females in the study. Consequent upon this, development of health policies and protocols for the screening of metabolic syndrome would aid in early diagnosis and timely management of non-communicable disease.
IJCM_416A: Health Profile of Anganwadi Workers: a camp-based study conducted at a Tertiary Hospital, Mumbai, India
Authors: Awad Milind N. , Qureshi Saniya , Chavhan Smita , Kembhavi Ravindra
Published: April 2024

Background:

As part of the Integrated Child Development Services program, The Anganwadi system is mainly managed by the Anganwadi worker (AWW). The fundamental tasks performed by Anganwadi workers are crucial and must be completed as effectively as possible. Hence the good health of Anganwadi workers decides how efficiently they can do their allotted work. So, this study was conducted to assess the health profile of Anganwadi workers.

Objective:

To assess the health profile of Anganwadi workers attending a Health checkup camp at a Tertiary Hospital.

Methodology:

A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted at a free health camp in a Tertiary Hospital of Mumbai, India, by the staff and interns of the Department of Community medicine. All AWWs who attended the camp were included in the study. AWWs who attended the health checkup camp were assessed for morbidity. Data collected by semi structured questionnaire was entered into Microsoft Excel and analysed using SPSS version-17.0.

Results:

Most of AWWs were from the age group of between 41-50 years; more than half of them were matriculate and 34(69.38%) workers had an experience of more than 10 years. Around 49% of them were having abnormal BMI and 53% were anaemic. PAP smear findings were abnormal in 4% AWWs.

Conclusion:

AWWs are considered cornerstone in providing ICDS services, but in this study, we found that most of AWWs themselves were not at their good health. Regular health checkups of healthcare workers of each level should be done to efficiently deliver the healthcare services to people of our country.
IJCM_418A: Perceived Social Isolation amongst Medical Undergraduates of Mangalore
Authors: Anand Rishit , Pai Keshava , Kotian Himani
Published: April 2024

Background:

Human emotions often tend to be fragile and gullible, changing with time and understanding but is almost always engaged in a competitive manner wherever there is intra-specific human competition leading to social isolation and loneliness. In a professional course like Medicine, there is a lot of competition and academic pressure which to a certain extent impacts the mental health of the individual and this is a crucial time as medical undergraduates generally in age group- 18-24 are in a phase of transition to adulthood. Perceived Social Isolation is generally seen associated with decline in cognitive and conative activities, not only the mental health is affected but chronic feelings of loneliness are a causal factor for CVDs and neuropathies. Our study will help us to identify the proportion of the medical undergraduates with perceived social isolation and its possible association with depression. This becomes greatly significant because of the strong competition and hectic schedule, characteristic of medical curriculum.

Objectives:

The objective of the study was to assess the proportion of Perceived Social Isolation in Medical Undergraduates and to assess a possible association between Perceived Social Isolation and Depression in Medical Undergraduates.

Methodology:

A Google Form was circulated amongst the students of KMC, Mangalore to collect the data from the participants. Subjects response to the designated questionnaire (circulated through google form) served as the sources of information, based on the responses in the Public Health Questionnaire -2 and University of California Los Angeles Loneliness Scale- the scores were evaluated and the data was compiled to comment on the study cohort.

Results:

Out of 219 participants, 48.9% of study subjects had moderately high degree of loneliness and 11.9% had relatively high degree of loneliness. Only 9.6% were reported to have low degree of loneliness followed by 29.7% having moderate degree of loneliness. Correlation between Loneliness Scale and PHQ-2 for study subjects with perceived social isolation and individuals who are likely to be screened for depression showed r-value of 0.400 and a significant p-value of <0.001. Individuals who had high degree of loneliness also scored significantly high in PHQ-2, 84.6% of all subjects who had high degree of loneliness also reported as potential candidates for screening of depression.

Conclusion:

The study concludes that a high proportion of medical undergraduates were reported to have either a high or moderately high degree of loneliness. It was also found that people who had high degree of loneliness significantly correlated with the likelihood of being screened for depression as based on their PHQ-2 scores.
IJCM_419A: Profile of neonates admitted to Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) of a Tertiary Care Hospital attached to a medical college in Mangalore
Authors: Karthik R , Madtha Saanchia , Kulkarni Vaman , Rao Shamthmika , Keerthana Hubli
Published: April 2024

Background:

Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR) is a value which plays a vital role in gauging the effectiveness and advancement in healthcare pertaining to newborns. The alarmingly high rate promotes the need of further development of better medical facilities. One such facility is the Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU).

Objective:

This study targets the analysis of factors contributing to the mortality of neonates and aims at coming up with solution to tackle the issue

Methodology:

A facility based retrospective study was carried out based on information from medical records of neonates admitted to the SNCU from a tertiary care hospital.

Results:

The 1038 neonates admitted it was found that nearly half of the neonates admitted had low birth weight (48.2%) contrary to maturity where 37.9 % were preterm. Most of the admissions were due to neonatal jaundice (46.6%) followed by low birth weight (15.2%) and respiratory distress syndrome (10.3%). Of the 85 neonates who expired, the leading causes were respiratory distress syndrome (21.2%), sepsis (14.9%), Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (12.9%), major congenital malformations (12.9%) and extreme low birth weight 11 (12.9%).

Conclusion:

The expansion of services and technology provided by SNCUs is of great importance in the development of healthcare for the nation. The growth of better antenatal health care, seamless referral systems along with identification of alarming conditions requiring admission to SNCUs immediately after birth form the pillars of confronting the goal of decreasing the NMR.
IJCM_420A: Chronic morbidity and disability and its effect on quality of life among the institutionalized elderly in Mangalore, South India: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Nair Aparna , Rekha T , Unnikrishnan Bhaskaran , Hegde Rithvik , Mohlah Daksha , Rao Aiswarya , Rai Nihal , Yadunath Sivaguha P , Mithra Prasanna , Kumar Nithin , Holla Ramesh
Published: April 2024

Background:

Senior citizens, or individuals over 60 years, constitute 8.6% of India’s population. As a result of shifting family dynamics brought about by growing urbanization and globalization, these elderly populations are flocking to elder care centers. The objectives of this research are to ascertain the elderly’s self-reported chronic morbidities, disabilities, and the relationship between these factors with their quality of life (QOL).

Methodologys:

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 110 residents of old age homes in Mangalore block of Dakshina Kannada district. The data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire consist of, Indian Disability Evaluation and assessment Scale and the World Health Organization Quality of life Brief Version (WHOQOL BREF) questionnaire and the data obtained was analyzed using SPSS version 24. Odd’s ratio was calculated, independent T test was used to compare the means across the groups and a ‘p’ value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results:

In the current study 65.5% participants were female (N=72) and most of the study participants reported hypertension and musculoskeletal pain (41.8% & 36.7% respectively) as the major ailment they are seeking health care, followed by diabetes mellitus (20.0%), angina (12.3%), asthma (10.9%), COPD (6.4%) and heart attack (4.5%). There was a statistically significant association between age, male gender, and level of disability with quality of life. Age of the participant was found to be directly proportional to quality of life in 2 domains – psychological and social relationships. Male gender was found to be significantly associated with social relationships domain of quality of life.

Conclusion:

It was shown that there was no clinically significant correlation between chronic morbidities and any dimension of quality of life, suggesting that the frequency and quality of health examinations delivered in the care homes were sufficient, which must carry on in the subsequent years.
IJCM_421A : The Lazy-Eye-Scope: A Low-Cost Screening Tool for Early Detection of Amblyopia in Toddlers
Authors: Saxena Tanmay , Quazi Anam , Hazarika Partha Protim , Reshmi Bhageerathy , Singhal Deepika , Quazi Zaheer
Published: April 2024

Background:

Amblyopia is the leading cause of monocular visual acuity impairment that often arises in early childhood with every 2 to 10 children in 100 being affected. Prevention of amblyopia is most effective during early childhood, as interventions become increasingly challenging once the condition progresses and the individual matures. The Lazy-Eye-Scope aims to prevent ocular morbidity in toddlers by early detection of amblyopia.

Objective:

To develop the The Lazy-Eye-Scope a low cost, technology enabled screening tool that aims to provide easy and affordable amblyopia detection.

Methodology:

An equipment will be developed to convert normal light into polarized light. It will include a plastic body containing polarising filters and a light source. This light source is directed on the eye through the refracting lens. This introduces a portable device that is extremely scalable, which will be designed for community level use.

Conclusion:

Thi

s

device is expect4ed to provide useful insight for the differently abled population including down syndrome and autism. This innovative screening tool holds promise in mitigating ocular morbidity and improving visual outcomes for toddlers worldwide. The simple methodology and usage of the device enables easy use by everyone even if they are not technically skilled.
IJCM_424A : User experience and attitude of end users towards Laboratory Information System at a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Asha K B , Reshmi Bhageerathy , Skaria Geena
Published: April 2024

Background:

Laboratory Information Systems like any other automated systems have been touted for their contribution in recognizing and minimizing diagnostic errors, supplementing the decision-making process and improving diagnostic outcomes

Objectives:

This study aimed to review LIS end users’ experiences using LIS and their attitude towards LIS, explore factors that affect LIS end users in a laboratory and locate connections between user issues and user variables if any.

Methodology:

A descriptive study was carried out to assess the personal and professional aspects experienced by LIS end users and to determine the usability of LIS. A purposive sampling methodology was used to interview all the laboratory personnel working at the department of Laboratory Medicine at the selected tertiary hospital. A five-point liker scale was used to find out the LIS end users’ experience. The System Usability Scale to ascertain the factors affecting usability and analyzing the associations between user issues and user variables (nine of them). Fisher’s Exact test was to analyse the responses to assess human factors and relations affecting the usability of LIS.

Results:

All the seventy respondents had a favourable response to the installation of LIS and viewed it as a valuable investment for the laboratory. Among the nine user variables, seven were found to have P ≤ 0.05 with issues affecting LIS end users in a laboratory setting, namely, gender, age, work experience using LIS, educational qualification, department within laboratory medicine, type of LIS training and job position, suggesting significant association.

Conclusion:

The LIS end users had a positive attitude towards LIS and acknowledged its role in the smooth functioning of the workflow in the laboratory.
IJCM_427A : Profile of HIV Positive Attendees at I.C.T.C. Attavar - A Retrospective Study
Authors: Swabu Aishwarya , Saluja Harmeet Singh , Nishad Ankit , Swetha Dhamacharla , Verma Shruti , Dureja Jayati , Rekha T , Unnikrishnan Bhaskaran , Mithra Prasanna , Holla Ramesh
Published: April 2024

Background:

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) continues to pose a significant public health threat worldwide, with India experiencing a substantial burden. Integrated Counseling and Testing Centers (ICTCs) play a pivotal role in addressing HIV/AIDS by providing crucial healthcare access and dispelling misconceptions surrounding the disease.

Objectives:

To study the profile of PLHIV patients attending ICTC centre.

Methodology:

This descriptive record-based study was conducted at the ICTC of Kasturba Medical College Hospital, Mangalore, aiming to profile HIV-positive attendees. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, mode of transmission, referrals, and counseling practices were collected from records of 137 seropositive attendees using convenient sampling. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 11.5.

Results:

The study revealed that most attendees were male (63.5%), married (78.8%), and aged 40 and above (40.1%). Heterosexual contact was identified as the primary mode of transmission (95.6%), with no cases attributed to blood transfusion. Private health facilities were the primary referrers (72.9%), and ICTC mainly referred patients to Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) centers (72.3%). Post-test counseling included spousal testing (33.6%) and condom counseling (90.5%), with limited condom uptake (18.9%) and follow-up of seropositive attendees (35.8%).

Conclusion:

The study underscores the critical role of ICTCs in HIV/AIDS management, highlighting trends in attendee profiles, transmission modes, referrals, and counseling practices. It emphasizes the necessity for targeted interventions to enhance follow-up and promote condom usage, alongside continued efforts to mitigate HIV transmission.
IJCM_45A: Inter-district variation in preterm deaths identified by a perinatal death audit: a health system intervention research
Authors: Rao Suchetha S , Kamath Nutan , Kushtagi Pralhad , Kumar Harsha H N , Baliga B Santharam
Published: April 2024

Background:

Analyzing preterm deaths is crucial due to the significant contribution of preterm babies to neonatal mortality rates. However, there is no universal perinatal death (PND) audit system in India

Objective:

To analyze the preterm deaths in two districts of Karnataka with study model of PND audit

Methodology:

Hospitals with maternal and child care facilities which met inclusion criteria in Dakshina Kannada (DK), high performing and Koppal (KPL),low performing districts were included after institutional ethics committee approval and permission from Mission Director, National Health Mission, Directorate of Heath and Family Welfare Services, Government of Karnataka. A PND audit system was designed. Personnel with training in medico-social history taking were utilized for data accumulation. Causal analysis of death as certified by independent expert panels and certifying physician was carried out and was compared for functionality. To determine optimality of care, facilities were categorized depending upon available levels of maternity and neonatal care. Preterm deaths during the one-year study period with complete data were analyzed.

Results:

119 preterm deaths in DK and 97 preterm deaths in KPL were analyzed. In utero transfer was 81.5 % in DK and 11.3% in KPL. More preterm deliveries were documented in public hospitals in both districts. Deaths of preterm babies in private hospitals at KPLwas 41.2% against 27.8% private deliveries. In KPL 22.6% babies died at home despite delivering in hospitals. Risk factor documentation was poor in both districts. Expert committee review increased preventability assertion from 7.5 to 11.7% in DK, 2 to 62.8% in KPL.

Conclusion:

Auditing perinatal deaths and analysing preterm deaths resulted in identification of specific deficiencies in healthcare system. DK had reasonably good facilities but KPL had serious concerns. The study model enhanced the preventability assertion in preterm deaths
IJCM_47A: A hospital based study to assess the utilization of ANC services among married women of reproductive age group in the sub District Hospital, West Delhi, India
Authors: Budh Nidhi , Hossain Samar , Arora Priya
Published: April 2024

Background:

Antenatal Services provided by government and its timely utilization are vital for the health outcomes of the mother as well as of child.

Objective:

To study the current pattern of utilization of antenatal services. To assess the factors influencing utilization of antenatal services.

Methodology:

A facility based cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at immunization clinic of sub district hospital from Aug 2022 to Oct 2022 among 230 randomly selected mothers whose child was less than one year. A pre-test self-administrative questionnaire was applied to collect the data and complied. Appropriate statistics was be applied to achieve desired results.

Results:

Mean age of the participants were 27.88 ±4.6 years. More than half of the participants were identified as Hindu by religion. Most of them were classified under a lower socio-economic status. All participants were literate. Out of the total, 63 (27.4%) were primigravida, and rest were multigravida. While three-fourths of the women registered their pregnancies early, 74.3% attended at least four antenatal care (ANC) visits. Moreover, 87.4% received two doses or one booster dose of Td vaccination, and 83.9% took a minimum of 100 Iron Folic Acid tablets. However, only 66.5% of the participants reported having fully utilized Anti natal care services.

Conclusion:

Females of young age with primary education and those belonging to the Muslim religion were found to have inadequate utilization of complete antenatal care (ANC), despite the presence of government-funded primary care services.
IJCM_5A: A gender perspective of gender equity and health amongst youth of urban slum area in South Gujarat
Authors: Gusain Teesta , Verma Mamtarani , Gamit Chintan
Published: April 2024

Background:

The socially constructed characteristics, qualities and actions of men, women, girls, and boys are referred to as gender. Being a core social determinant, it directly affects attitude and health related behaviour. The variance in exposure to material, psychological, behavioural, and biological aspects is how gender impacts health outcomes.

Objectives:

To document the knowledge regarding gender equity, violence, sexuality, masculinity and reproductive health. To determine gender wise differences in access to healthcare and perception of one’s own health.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study was carried out in the urban health centre field practise area in Surat, Gujarat among 260 youth participants aged 18-24 years. After obtaining ethical approval, participants were selected via convenient sampling technique, written informed consent was obtained. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews maintaining privacy using a pre-tested semi structured questionnaire for a duration of 8 months. Data was entered in excel and analysed using JAMOVI software. Themes were generated for qualitative responses.

Results:

147 (56.5%) participants were males. The mean age of the participants was 20.55+2.14. Females had statistically significant higher mean gender equity score (30.90+4.68) than males (26.60+3.27). Significant association was seen for education (p= 0.005) and sibling type (p= 0.005) with gender equity. Negligible positive and significant correlation (r= 0.12) between gender equity scores and total family income. Multiple roles and responsibilities (26.7%) were the major factor identified for perception of health.

Conclusion:

Results highlight the importance of education and employment in developing high gender equitable attitudes The barriers for accessing healthcare services were varied like autonomy to take decision, monetary problems distance to healthcare services etc. Multiple roles, treatment seeking behaviour and reproductive health were major areas which influenced youth’s perception of their health.