bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative study between intrauterine insemination following preovulatory pertubation versus intrauterine insemination alone in induced ovulation cycles in infertility patients
Authors: Dhume Pranjali
Published: January 2022

Background: To compare the efficacy of pertubation with low dose lignocaine before ovulation followed by intrauterine insemination versus intrauterine insemination alone in induced ovulation cycles in infertility patients.Methods: Total 60 ovulation induction cycles were studied, were randomly divided in Group A and Group B of 30 cycles each. Ovulation induction was done with clomiphene citrate / gonadotrophins. Post ovulation IUI was done in both the groups. Additionally, preovulatory pertubation with low dose lignocaine diluted in balanced salt solution was done 10-12 hrs after ovulation trigger in group A. The primary outcome conception (positive urine pregnancy test) in patients were compared between two groups. The secondary outcomes, full term pregnancy, abortion, ectopic pregnancy, procedural pain, infection, haemorrhage, and long term complications were also studied and compared.Results: Pregnancy rate was found to be slightly more in the preovulatory perturbation with low dose lignocaine and IUI group (20.6% in Group A) as compared to IUI alone group (14.7% in Group B). But the difference was not found to be statistically significant (p>0.05). The spontaneous pregnancy rates in patients with endometriosis is <5%. In the intervention group it was 37.5% in cases with endometriosis, which was encouraging. The pertubation treatment used in this study proved to be a safe treatment option without complications. Procedure was associated with mild to moderate pain in 76% patients and severe in 8.8% patients and one patient (2.9%) had syncope. Post procedure PID was noted in one patient (2.9%).Conclusions: Preovulatory perturbation followed by IUI was associated with increased clinical pregnancy rate as compared with IUI alone in induced ovulation cycles. The efficacy was more pronounced in the patients with endometriosis. It is safe and well tolerated.
A survey on the impact of COVID-19 infection on menstrual cycle following second wave of COVID infection in a tertiary care centre in Mumbai
Authors: Chavan Niranjan N. , Boob Manan Murlidhar , Simpatwar Sonam , Sakhalkar Ashwini
Published: January 2022

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to poor mental health measures, with emerging evidence suggesting gender differences with poorer outcomes in women. It has also introduced many acute stressors in life of many women and thus, led to worse outcomes. This may have unintended consequences for women’s overall health and well-being, including disruptions to reproductive function as elevated stress is often associated with menstrual cycle irregularities. The objective of this study was to determine if and how the COVID-19 infection and its related stressors have impacted women’s menstrual cyclicity.Methods: An online survey was designed to capture self-reported information on menstrual cycle changes was distributed between April and September 2021. A total of 155 women who met stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria and completed the survey.Results: Of the 155 respondents, more than half (78%) reported changes in their menstrual cycles. These included changes in menstrual cycle length, the duration of menses, or changes in premenstrual symptoms.Conclusions: By uncovering a trend in increased menstrual cycle irregularities during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, this study contributes to our understanding of the implications that the pandemic may have on women’s reproductive health.
Evaluation of biochemical parameter in polycystic ovarian disease patients attending tertiary care hospital
Authors: Saha Aditi , Gupta Anirban Das
Published: January 2022

Background: PCOS might be a complex multigenic disorder with strong epigenetic and environmental influences, such as diet and other lifestyle factors. It is associated with abdominal adiposity, insulin resistance, obesity, metabolic disorders and cardiovascular risk factors. Based on literature search and non-uniformity in the finding of various author present study has been designed to evaluate the biochemical parameter in polycystic ovarian disease patients attending tertiary care hospital.Methods: The study population include 50 untreated patients diagnosed to be polycystic ovarian disease. Parameters like age, BMI (body mass index), fasting plasma glucose, lipid profile overnight fasting plasma insulin, dehydroepiandrosterne sulphate, (µg/dl) (DHEAS), LH, FSH, LH/FSH ratio, HOMA IR (homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance) and quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) and fasting serum plasma glucose to insulin ratio was measured in both group of patients.Results: The mean value of glucose insulin ratio was 4.88±1.911 in PCOD group and 8.74±4.61 in control group, the p value was 0.004909. The mean of LH/FSH ratio was 1.93±0.42 in PCOD group and 1.03±0.199 in control group. The p value was <0.05. The mean of HOMA IR was 7.87±0.87 in PCOD group and 2.036±0.26 in control group, with p value 0.00001.Conclusions: From present study we can conclude that the mean age was 22.05±4.649 years and the mean BMI was 27.32±6. Hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia were common in PCOD patients. The mean of HOMA IR was significantly higher and the mean value of QUICKI was significantly lower in PCOD group.
Evaluation of neonatal admission to neonatal intensive care unit in a tertiary care hospital in Kashmir
Authors: Rashid Rehana , Nazir Mudasir
Published: January 2022

Background: Neonatal period is the most unguarded period which influences the survival and overall wellbeing of a child. Many illnesses affecting the neonates lead to morbidities and mortality among them. According to 2015 Global health observatory (GHO) data, neonatal deaths constitute roughly 45% of all under five deaths. Worldwide, neonatal mortality rate has seen a steady decline by 47% between 1990 and 2015 from 36 to 19 per 1000 live birth. India contributes to nearly 25% of the mortality around the world.Methods: This descriptive retrospective study was carried out at LallaDed hospital, only tertiary care obstetrics and gynaecology hospital of Kashmir valley from August 2020 to January 2021. The study was conducted with records of the neonates who were admitted to NICU of this hospital during the above mentioned time period. The data regarding gestational age, sex, mode of delivery, birth weight, Apgar score at birth, indication for admission and outcome was recorded.Results: The total number of NICU admission during this time period was 252. The mode of delivery was FTVD in 144 (57.1%) and LSCS in 108 (42.9%). The number of preterm babies was 175 (69.4%) and number of term babies was 77 (30.6%). Among the admitted neonates, 141 (56%) were male and 111 (44%) were female babies. The birth Apgar score 0 minutes was 8 in 24, 7 in 75, 6 in 130 and 4 in 23 babies.Conclusions: This study identified RDS and MAS among the most common reasons for NICU admission. Early neonatal period is the major contributor to neonatal mortality which is influenced by birth weight and Apgar score. Understanding causes of neonatal mortality, education and training of medical and para medical staff and implementation of interventions regarding neonatal resuscitation will play major role in decreasing the neonatal NICU admission and mortality thereof.
Association between Chlamydia trachomatis infection and recurrent pregnancy loss
Authors: . Shaheen , Saxena Upma
Published: January 2022

Background: Chlamydia trachomatis infection is widely prevalent sexually transmitted infection. Chlamydia trachomatis is associated with pelvic inflammatory disease, salpingitis, infertility and various adverse pregnancy outcomes example- preterm labour, Premature rupture of membranes, spontaneous miscarriage. Association of Chlamydia trachomatis with recurrent pregnancy loss is not yet well understood. The aim of the present study was to determine association of Chlamydia trachomatis infection with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) by comparing its prevalence in women with and without RPL.Methods: This case control study was carried out in the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi. Total 200 women were recruited on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Out of these 100 women were in study group with history of RPL and 100 women were in control group with previous successful pregnancy outcomes. ELISA on blood and PCR on urine sample were performed to detect Chlamydia trachomatis and its prevalence was compared in both the groups. All quantitative variables were compared by t test and qualitative variables were compared by chi square test. P value less than 0.05 was considered significant.Results: Prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis infection by PCR on urine was found to be 17% in study group and 0% in control with a significant difference in both the groups (p value- 0.0001). Similarly prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis infection by ELISA on blood was found to be 22% in study group and 4% in control with a statistically significant difference in both the groups (p value-0.0001). Thus significantly higher prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis infection was found in women with recurrent pregnancy loss in comparison to those without it.Conclusions: This study showed strong association of Chlamydia trachomatis infection with recurrent pregnancy loss. Hence, screening and treatment of pregnant women for C.trachomatis infection may be beneficial to reduce adverse pregnancy outcome.
The changing scenario of pattern of peripartum hysterectomy: prevention and preparedness matters
Authors: Rengaraj Sasirekha , Rajamanickam Saranya , Thiyagalingam Sutharsika
Published: January 2022

Background: Peripartum hysterectomy is a life-saving procedure, often associated with significant morbidity. The indication for peripartum hysterectomy has been shifted from PPH and rupture uterus to placental abnormalities and haemorrhage. Reducing the number of caesarean sections is the major step towards minimizing the chance of undergoing peripartum hysterectomy in subsequent pregnancy at the same time the morbidity is more if the peripartum hysterectomy is a on table decision.Methods: This was a descriptive study from a tertiary care centre, South India and all the case records of women who underwent peripartum hysterectomy were reviewed from 2012 to 2017. All the details including demographic details, clinical characteristics, indications and clinical outcome of those women were recorded. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 20.Results: The incidence of peripartum hysterectomy was 0.7/1000 deliveries and it was 0.24% and 0.03% after caesarean section and vaginal deliveries respectively. The placental abnormalities (46.2%) were the commonest cause followed by uterine atony (28.8%) and rupture uterus (21.2%). It was total hysterectomy in all of them except 2 women who underwent subtotal hysterectomy (3.8%) and the commonest visceral injury was bladder (15.4%). The maternal mortality rate was 9.8% and 61.5% (n=32) received massive blood transfusions.Conclusions: Even though a life-saving procedure, the timing and the preoperative hemodynamic status of the women were the major determinants of adverse outcome associated with peripartum hysterectomy. Preoperative planning and risk stratification models are essential to minimize the risk of undergoing hysterectomy and to reduce the morbidity associated with the procedure.
Effect of oral and intravenous hydration therapy on amniotic fluid index, maternal and perinatal outcome in borderline oligohydramnios
Authors: Chaudhary Anjali , Varma Umesh , Goel Sandeep , Varma Aditya
Published: January 2022

Background: The aim was to determine whether oral route of maternal hydration was advantageous over intravenous route in terms of increasing AFI and improving maternal and perinatal outcome in women having borderline oligohydramnios.Methods: At Aarogya hospital, 150 women in third trimester with borderline oligohydramnios (BO) AFI 5.1-8 cm, were divided randomly into two groups, oral hydration group (OG) and intravenous hydration (IVG). Each case was studied on OPD basis. After 2 hours, 48 hours and 1 week of oral or IV hydration. AFI was reassessed by same sonographer. Pre-delivery AFI and various outcome measures were recorded for both groups.Results: There was an increase in AFI by 44.5% in OG from 0 hour till delivery as compared to 30.7% increase in IVG. MSL occurred in 8 (10.7%) women in OG compared to 17 (22.6%) in IVG. FD was found in 4 (5.3%) in OG requiring LSCS compared to 16 (21.3%) in IVG. Total of 59 (78.7%) patients in OG has spontaneous vaginal delivery as compared to 42 (56%) in IVG. Perinatal outcome was better with OG than IVG 67 (89%) had Apgar at 1 min >8 in OG than 58 (77%) in IVG. Apgar score <8 at 1 min was seen in 8 (10.7%) in OG while 17 (22.7 %) in IVG. Overall, 7 (9.3%) required NICU admission in OG and 12 (16%) in IVG.Conclusions: AFI increment persisted longer in OG as compared to IVG. Maternal and perinatal outcome were better with oral hydration therapy than IV hydration.
Ovarian hyper stimulation syndrome in a spontaneous singleton pregnancy: a case report
Authors: Sharma Anuj Kumar , Rastogi Radha , Patel Kalpesh , Vivek K. G.
Published: January 2022

Ovarian hyper stimulation syndrome (OHSS) is extremely rare in spontaneous pregnancies. Spontaneous OHSS can result from glycoprotein hormones stimulating follicle-stimulating hormone receptors (FSHR). Our case reinforces the importance of a prompt diagnosis and management in all pregnant patients presenting with acute abdomen and ovarian masses. We report a case of spontaneous singleton pregnancy at 12-week POG presented with abdominal distension and enlarged ovaries. Patient was successfully managed with supportive treatment comprise of intravenous (IV) Albumin, thromboprophylaxis, dopamine agonist and insulin sensitizer. Spontaneous OHSS should be included in the differential diagnosis of acute abdomen in pregnant women. Since spontaneous OHSS can be associated with life-threatening complications, it requires early diagnosis for successful management. The etiology should be determined in order to focus the treatment and avoid future complications.
Counselling skills in obstetrics and gynecological patients considering medical, emotional, cultural and legal perspectives: a commentary
Authors: Agarwal Manika , Singh Kaushiki
Published: January 2022

Communication is an important skill which doctors must possess in order to deal with patients and build a good rapport with them. It not only increases communication and understanding but also helps to break bad news to the patient with more empathy. In this study we have taken four cases from our hospital where good counselling plays an important role in patient management. We deal with such patients in our routine life and lessons learnt play an important role in dealing with similar patients with ease in future.
Determinants of non-compliance to hepatitis B vaccination among students of Kenya Medical Training College in Machakos sub county, Kenya
Authors: Silla Winfred Nthambi , Juma Joseph , Muitta Esther
Published: January 2022

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) causes acute and chronic liver disease hepatitis B is an alarming population health concern affecting approximately 10% of the globe. In mortality ranking it is number ten global cause of death for an estimated one cases globally. Hepatitis B is the most important infectious occupational hazard which medical students and healthcare workers encounter. The magnitude of the problem can be gauged from the fact students/HCWs have the high prevalence of HBV carrier state in the population.Methods: The research examines determinants of noncompliance to Hepatitis B vaccination among students of the KMTC Machakos sub county. This research was conducted in KMTC campuses in Machakos Sub County in Kenya. Cross-sectional study design was employed in study where both quantitative and qualitative data amongst KMTC students on determinants of noncompliance to HBV vaccine by these KMTC students stratified random sampling technique was employed. A target of 384 was achieved by use of Fischer’s et al formula. Cronbach alpha coefficient was computed to find the validity and reliability. The data gathered was cleaned, organized, coded, and analysed through the use of SPSS, version 21.0 for quantitative data. Descriptive statistics. e.g., graphs, percentages, means and standard deviation while qualitative data was analysed using narratives based on themes and sub-themes. A chi square test was used to test the hypothetical statement by establishing the differences between the observed and expected outcomes on study variables.Results: Most of the students in KMTC indicated that they agree that they are confident in counselling patients about the prevention of HBV where 191 (48.5%) agreed while 74 (18.8%) strongly agreed that they can counselling patients while 70 (17.8%) were not sure that they can counselling patients while 14.0% and 1% they disagreed and strongly disagreed on the counselling patients on prevention of HBV. High number of respondents were confident in prescribing treatment for a patient with chronic hepatitis B where 155 (39.3%) agreed, while 69 (17.5%) were strongly agreed. R square of 99.6% of the data was achieved indicating that there was goodness in fit of the data used in assessment of on the relationship between the studied dependent and independent variables i.e. the attitudes towards Hepatitis B vaccination among students in KMTC.Conclusions: From the findings of the study, it is apparent that the level of awareness on HBV vaccination amongst students in KMTC in Machakos Sub County is high. Majority of the students have sufficient knowledge concerning it. It was found that needle stick injury is the most probable route of the disease transmission. Further, the respondents indicated sexual abstinence and vaccination as the preventive measures against the disease.
Clinicians' knowledge and practices in the diagnoses and management of non-malarial fever illnesses among under 5 children in Kisii County, Kenya
Authors: Onywoki Samwel Amka , Mong’are Samuel , Obare Obwocha Evans , Gachohi John
Published: January 2022

Background: Indiscriminate fever management using antimalarial drugs escalates patients' health risk, especially those <5 years old, with the likelihood of accelerating the emergence and spread of drug-resistant malaria parasites. We assessed clinicians' knowledge and practices in diagnosing and managing non-malarial fever illnesses among children <5 years in Kisii County, Kenya.Methods: 193 nurses and clinical officers working in selected public health facilities in Kisii County were recruited into the study. Semi-structured questionnaires and individual interviews were used in collecting data. Chi-square was used in testing associations between categorical variables.Results: 94% (n=181) of the respondents were aware of other infectious illnesses other than malaria, 71% (n=137) were aware of fever as the primary clinical sign of malaria while 61% (n=118) of the respondents were aware of non-infectious sources where fever is the leading symptom. The frequently prescribed antipyretic drugs were paracetamol and Ibuprofen. Under the hematinic and vitamins category, clinicians commonly prescribed multivitamin syrups and iron blood tonics. 91% (n=176) of the study respondents reported that they occasionally-prescribed anti-malaria drugs for malaria negative diagnostic results. Knowledge   and practices in diagnosis management of non-malaria illnesses, varied significantly among clinician’s who were in the rural and urban facilities (p=0.025, OR: 1.16, 95% CI: 0.02-0.28).  However, there was no association between level of knowledge of the enrolled nurses, registered nurse and clinical officer {(p=0.21, OR: 0.88, 95% CI: -0.32-0.07), (p=0.89, OR: 0.98, 95% CI: -0.26-0.23)}Conclusions: Clinicians in Kisii County reported prescribing anti-malarial drugs for malaria negative diagnostic results, highlighting the need for continuous field training in differentiating malarial and non-malarial fevers.
Factors associated with the quality of health services for hypertension patients at adow community health center, Central Pinolosian Sub District South Bolaang Mongondow Regency
Authors: Kolibu Febi K. , Kawatu Paul , Tucunan Ardiansah
Published: January 2022

Background: The community's need for health services encourages health care facilities to always provide quality services. The implementation of health service quality assurance will not only have an impact on the organization, but also satisfaction for existing resources within the organization because of patient satisfaction. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between the dimensions of the quality of health services with the satisfaction of hypertension patients at the Adow public health center, central Pinolosian Sub District, South Bolaang Mongondow Regency.Methods: This study is a quantitative study with a cross-sectional design. The study population consisted of hypertensive patients at Adow health center with a total sample of 100 patients who were taken using the purposive sampling technique.Results: Univariate analysis on the quality of health services found 67% of respondents stated that the dimensions of tangible were good, 50% of patients stated that the dimensions of reliability were good, 88% of patients stated that responsiveness was good, 72% of patients stated that the dimensions of assurance were good and 92% The patient stated that the empathy dimension was good. The results of the bivariate analysis proved the correlation between the dimensions of physical evidence-satisfaction of hypertensive patients (p=0.000), the dimensions of reliability-satisfaction of hypertensive patients (p=0.000), dimensions of responsiveness-patient satisfaction (p value 0.000), assurance-patient satisfaction (p=0.002) and empathy-patient satisfaction (p=0.017)Conclusions: The quality of health services for hypertensive patients at the Adow community health center based on an assessment of the dimensions of tangible, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy is included in the good category. There is 53% of patients expressed their satisfaction with the services provided by the Adow community health center. In addition, this study has proven that there is a relationship between physical evidence, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy with the satisfaction of hypertensive patients at the Adow community health center.
Prevalence and socio-economic determinants of malaria among children under five in Cameroon
Authors: Nounouce Ngako Pamen Joelle , Zakariaou Njoumemi , Marie-José Essi , Yollande Tankeu , Carele Djofang , Christelle Bakoue
Published: January 2022

Background: Malaria is a major risk of morbidity and mortality among children under five in Cameroon with 13.7% of deaths in 2017. This paper aims to determine the prevalence and socioeconomic determinants of malaria among children under five in Cameroon.Methods: The study used secondary population data from 5th demographic and health survey (DHS-V). A stratified, 2-stage sampling was implemented and yielded a sample of 4094 children under 5 years of age who underwent a rapid diagnostic test (RDT). The logistic regression model was used to estimate the prevalence and socio-economic determinants of malaria with multivariate descriptive and explanatory analysis. The results were presented in terms of cross tabulations and frequencies and the differences were considered statistically significant at a p<0.05.Results: The results show that 1024 out of 4094 children were tested positive, with a prevalence rate of 25%. There is a regional and residential disparity in malaria prevalence and a child living in a rural area was twice more likely to be infected with malaria. The prevalence of malaria is a function of the socio-economic characteristics of the household, as prevalence decreases as well-being improves from 33.8% among the poor to 13.3% among the rich. Low socio-economic status is a risk factor for malaria infection in children under five in Cameroon.Conclusions: The policy implications are concerned with the reduction of socio-economic disparities, the promotion of free health care and universal health coverage in Cameroon.
Comparative study of DAS-28 ESR and DAS-28 CRP in determining the severity of disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Mohammadi-Kebar Yousef , Azami Ahad , Pourfarzi Farhad , Naghavinia Ashkan
Published: January 2022

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic and chronic disease. Combined indicators, such as disease activity score or DAS-28, can be used to categorize quantitative disease activity status and recovery. But in this calculation there is no difference between using ESR or CRP. Some studies have showed that using CRP instead of ESR will cause the severity of the disease to be underestimated. The aim of this study was to comparison of DAS-28 ESR and DAS-28 CRP in determining the severity of disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.Methods: This study was a cross-sectional and descriptive-analytical study on patients with rheumatoid arthritis who referred to the rheumatology clinic of Imam Khomeini Hospital. 200 patients from the target community who referred to the rheumatology clinic were randomly selected and studied. Relevant questionnaires including demographic information such as age, sex, cigar consumption were completed from the study.Results: In this study, 200 patients with RA who met the inclusion criteria were randomly selected and evaluated. The results showed that the mean age of participants in the study was 50.38±12.82 and those in the age range of 18. They were up to 90 years old and 20% of the people were men and the rest were women. The study on alcohol and cigarette use in patients showed that 3 cases (1.5%) of patients had a history of alcohol consumption and 9 cases (4.5%) had a history of smoking. Examination of DAS28 in individuals showed that the mean of DAS28 in terms of CRP in patients is lower than the mean score of DAS28 in terms of ESR DAS28 showed less disease activity in terms of CRP and this difference was statistically significant (p=0.001). There was no significant relationship between gender, age and serum albumin level with DAS28 score based on ESR and CRP. There was no statistically significant relationship between VAS in patients and DAS28.Conclusions: According to the results of the present study and previous studies, it seems that if CRP is used to determine the severity of the disease, it is better to use a new scoring criterion for patients.
Hepatitis E virus induced encephalopathy during pregnancy: a life threatening condition
Authors: Kaisar Khaled , Nessa Kamrun
Published: January 2022

Background: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection during pregnancy has increased mortality up to 30% in the 3rd trimester.Methods: A prospective study was conducted on the HEV positive pregnant patient with sign symptoms of encephalopathy admitted at the ICU of BRB hospital Ltd during the period of January 2018 to December 2018. During this period 26 patients were admitted. The serum of pregnant women was tested for HEV IgM by ELISA method and positive women were recruited for the study. Maternal variables such as gestational age, clinical progression, worsening of the disease, laboratory parameters, obstetric outcome, and fetal outcome were noted. All data were entered in SPSS 16 and analyzed. This study was ethically approved by the ethical review committee of BRB hospital Ltd.Results: Among 26 HEV-positive patients, the mean age was 27.46 years. Among them 11 (42.3%) were primi and the rest were multigravida, 5 (19.2%) were in the first trimester, 9 (34.6%) were in the 2nd trimester and 12 (46.15%) were in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy.17 patients (65.4%) were housewives and 9 (34.6%) were service holders. Three patients (11.5%) were illiterate, 16 patients (61.5%) have completed primary level of education and 7 (26.9%) were completed higher level of education. Most of the patients were from middle-class families that are 18 patients (69.23%), 3 patients (11.5 %) were from poor social class, and the rest from upper social class is 5 (19.2%).Conclusions: HEV infection during pregnancy has many serious fetomaternal complications including maternal and fetal death.
Prevalence of anaemia among adolescent girls in a rural area of Central Kerala, South India
Authors: N. Divyamol , V. Sajna M.
Published: January 2022

Background: Adolescence lays the foundation for future health. Anaemia among adolescent girls has become a significant public health issue. The state of Kerala has few reported studies in this regard. The current study was conducted to determine the prevalence of anaemia in adolescent girls in a rural area of central Kerala and to find out the factors associated with anaemia among them.Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among 194 adolescent girls of Tholur panchayath in Thrissur district, Kerala. The study participants were randomly selected from the adolescent registers maintained in anganwadies. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered after getting informed assent and consent from the participants and their guardians respectively. All the participants were clinically examined, anthropometric measurements were taken and 2 CC of EDTA anti-coagulated blood samples were collected to test haemoglobin.Results: The prevalence of anaemia among the participants is found to be 26.3% (95% CI: 17.4-37.34). Out of the total anaemic girls, 94% were mildly anaemic (Hb between 10-11.9 g/dl) and the remaining were moderately anaemic (Hb between 7-9.9 g/dl). Anaemia was significantly higher in the age group between 10-14 years (39.5%), compared to 15-19 years (15.6%). Lower frequency of intake of green leafy vegetable and wholegrain cereals were found to have significant association with anaemia.Conclusions: Anaemia remains a moderate public health hazard among the adolescent girls, with roughly every fourth girl becoming anaemic. Nutritional inadequacies were shown to be the most common cause of anaemia, which was found to be greater in the early teenage period.
Knowledge, self-care practices and adherence to medical regimen among diabetic patients
Authors: Lakra Shalini , Prakash Kamli , P. Priya J.
Published: January 2022

Background: The purpose of the study was to assess the knowledge, self-care practices and adherence to medical regimen among diabetes patients.Methods: A descriptive study was adopted to assess the knowledge, self- care practices and adherence to medical regimen among diabetic patients. A total of 150 diabetic patients were selected on the basis of inclusion criteria by using convenient sampling technique. Data was collected using Sociodemographic proforma, knowledge questionnaire on diabetes, Self-care practice scale and adherence to medical regimen questionnaire.Results: The findings revealed that out of total 150 participants, 8.7% had good,78.7% had moderately adequate and 12.7% of the participants had poor knowledge regarding diabetes mellitus, whereas regarding self-care practices 36.7% had good, 52.7% had moderate and10.7% of the participants had poor self-care practice for the management of diabetes mellitus. Majority (78%) participants had good adherence, 13.3 % participants had excellent adherence and only 8.6% participants had poor adherence to medical regimen.Conclusions: The study concluded that diabetic patients were adhering to medical regimen and had moderate self-care practices and knowledge. Hence it is important to conduct the diabetic health education program campaigns for diabetic patients to improve their knowledge and self-care practices.
Knowledge and practice regarding cervical cancer prevention among women in a rural area of Tripura, India
Authors: Banik Suranjana , Sahu Dinesh Prasad , Bhattacharjya Himadri
Published: January 2022

Background: Cervical cancer is commonest in developing countries and the third most common form of cancer among women worldwide which presents a later stage causing high morbidity and mortality. PAP smear discovered in 1941 was a revolutionary screening test but acceptance is poor. Objective was to detect the level of awareness regarding prevention of cervical cancer among rural women and to study the determinants of awareness regarding prevention of cervical cancer.Methods:A community based cross-sectional study was conducted in rural field practice area of Agartala Government Medical College for two months among 131 women chosen by multistage sampling, aged 15 years and above. Quantitative data were collected by administering a structured interview schedule. Chi square test was applied for testing the significance of study findings and p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results: About 78% of the study women were primary educated and 33.3% of the study women have heard about cervical cancer and health care providers were the source of information for 34.04% of the respondents. 99.2% of the women didn’t hear about PAP smear, nor they have any idea of vaccination. They didn’t undergo any screening test and cited “absence of symptoms” as the main reason.Conclusions:Majority of the studied women didn’t have any clear idea of cervical cancer, screening and vaccination and level of awareness was very low. Intensified health educational programs should be launched. Health workers and physicians must play critical role in counselling. Information about safety, efficacy, insurance coverage etc. to be facilitated for active HPV vaccination.
A study to assess the perceived barriers in utilization of partograph
Authors: Sharma Shivani , Parwez Saroj , Batra Kiran
Published: January 2022

Background: Though maternal mortality can visualize the decreasing trends in India, but still we need to work hard for attaining sustainable development goals. As per the WHO, partograph must be used to monitor labor of all intra-natal mothers, but its implementation is limited due to various barriers experienced by health workers. The aim of the study was to assess the barriers which are experienced by the health care providers in actual utilization of the existing partograph.Methods:Qualitative research approach was adopted to understand the views related to the partograph. Interview techniques was adopted to collect data. Various focus group discussions were conducted from November 2018 to March 2019 to gather data related to barriers experienced by the partograph users in the hospital setting. The participants were from the health centres and educational institutions of Mohali and Patiala districts of Punjab.Results: Certain factors were highlighted in the discussion which needs to be addressed if we want that partograph should be used to its maximum potential. It brought to light various themes and factors which lead to underutilization of the existing partograph. The results highlighted the factors related to the partograph utilization, factors related to health centre, factors related to components of the partograph and enhancement of utilization of the partograph.Conclusions:It can be concluded that in developing countries like India, where we are still struggling with the maternal and child health issues, attention should be drawn to the actual problems faced by the health care providers so that maternal and perinatal outcomes can be improved.
Prevalence and psychosocial aspects of verbal aggression among adolescents in rural block of Haryana
Authors: Verma Ramesh , Kumar Gopal , Chayal Vinod , Kalhan Meenakshi , Sachdeva Aman , Satija Jitesh , Agrawal Ginni , Rani Alka
Published: January 2022

Background: Aggression refers to behaviour which causes intentional harm to others. There are about 1.2 billion adolescents in the world today, making 16% of the world’s population. Now a day, it is a common phenomenon to find adolescents being involved in aggressive activities frequently. Various studies in India has observed that prevalence of verbal aggression varies between 50% and 70% with more aggression among male as compared to females. The studies regarding the prevalence of verbal aggression are relatively scarce in the particular study area. Hence this study was conducted with an objective to estimate the prevalence of verbal aggression among adolescents and to study the psychosocial aspects of the aggression among them.Methods: A 29-item Buss and Perry scale interview schedule was used to estimate level of verbal aggression among school going adolescents in rural block of Haryana. Data was collected, compiled and analysed using SPSS.Results: A total number of 480 study participants were enrolled in the study. The prevalence of verbal aggression was observed to be 48.3% in the study participants. Mean score of the verbal aggression was 16.60±3.619. History of substance abuse was significantly associated with verbal aggression (p<0.001).Conclusions: From our study it may be concluded that verbal aggression is high among school going adolescents. Overall males were more verbally aggressive than females. Substance abuse was significantly associated with verbal aggression, while other factors like socio-economic class, age, classes were not significantly associated.
Attitude, perception and interest of physiotherapy students to participate in geriatrics master’s degree program: a pilot study
Authors: Khan Lubna A. , Parle Jyoti , Chougle Sarah
Published: January 2022

Background: Elderly population in India is exponentially increasing due to the impressive gains that society has made in terms of increased life expectancy. With a rise in elderly population, the demand for holistic care also tends to grow. Thus, this study explored interest of physiotherapy students in pursuing further education in geriatric.Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted on 70 physiotherapy interns. They were explained about the purpose of the study and signed consent was taken. Attitude and perception towards geriatric was evaluated using geriatric attitudinal scale (GAS) and a pre-validated self-administered questionnaire was used to assess their interest in pursuing further education in geriatric.Results: Participants typically described positive response towards caring and treating older patients. On analysing few components from GAS, 37% of participants answered as being with elderly is a pleasant feeling while 42% were neutral in their response. 37% of them felt that taking history is not an ordeal and treating them is essential which 30% of the participant was. Despite this only 20% of all students showed interest in pursuing physiotherapy in geriatric.Conclusions: According to our findings, the student’s attitude remained very positive towards the elderly patients but there is undesirable willingness to pursue further education in geriatric.
Knowledge, attitude and practices towards research among undergraduate medical students in a teaching hospital, Trichy
Authors: Sivakumar Aakhash , Nagendran Mareeswaran
Published: January 2022

Background: Late advancements in medicine and health care have made research an integral part of modern medicine, but research in most developing countries of the world is not a mandatory component of medical education, although it is well known that it has a positive effect on the quality of medical education. This study was conducted with an objective to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice towards research among undergraduate medical students.Methods: This is an Observational KAP study done among the undergraduate medical students in a teaching hospital Trichy. Around 200 students were selected from 2nd, 3rd, final MBBS students and Interns by Consecutive sampling method.Results: Among 200 study participants, 43% were females and 57% were males. Around 16% of the study participants were second year MBBS, 17%were final year MBBS part-I, 29% from the final year MBBS part-II and 38% (76) were interns. The overall percentages of knowledge, attitude and practice of the study participants in doing a medical research were 94%, 83% and 61% respectively.Conclusions: Encouraging medical students to engage in scientific research has shown excellent performance in daily clinical practice which requires multiple skills, and doctors who have had scientific training during their medical education may have an advantage over others when it comes to decision making using information collected from various resources.
Emergence of mucormycosis following second wave of COVID-19 pandemic and possible risk factors in a hilly state of North India
Authors: Sharma Kamlesh , Sharma Ram Lal , . Sunita
Published: January 2022

Background: Mucormycosis is a rare, highly aggressive fungal infection affecting the rhino-orbital, respiratory, gastrointestinal or cutaneous systems and is caused by a group of moulds called mucoromycetes belonging to order Mucorales and has been associated with corona pandemic. The aim of the study was to assess the emerging trends of mucormycosis following second wave of Corona pandemic and possible risk factors in a hilly state of North India.Methods: It was a retrospective data analysis study where the information’s were gathered from various sources in state of Himachal Pradesh. After detection of 1st case, data was collected from May 2021 to July 2021. Since objective and authentic data was released by different agencies daily, so the state profile of mucormycosis cases was taken as per information available from newspapers, various state websites and analysed for various parameters.Results: The current study conducted in state of Himachal Pradesh showed that Hamirpur was the worst hit district with affected population 0.002%, with case fatality rate 57%. While male mortality was more (60%) as compared to female mortality (40%).Conclusions: This study showed that underlying risk factors for mucormycosis were COVID-19 infection, un-controlled diabetes, steroid and oxygen use.
Understanding different causes of Blindness with focus on Diabetic Retinopathy patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Sompura Parth P. , Surti Shaily
Published: January 2022

Background: National program for control of blindness and visual impairment is a centrally sponsored programme with the goal of reducing the prevalence of blindness. The data regarding the beneficiaries can help in planning for preventable causes of blindness. Diabetic retinopathy caused by diabetes mellitus is one such important cause that can be prevented with proper control of blood glucose levels and regular screening for DR; possible with appropriate knowledge and awareness among patients about the relationship between DM and Retinopathy.Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out comprising two components: desk review of patients (N=1072) including all the beneficiaries of NPCBVI during August-2019 and October-2019 and personal interviews of DR patients (N=62) enrolled during same duration using semi-structured interviews at Tertiary care hospital in Waghodia, Gujarat.Results: Out of 1072 beneficiaries of NPCBVI, 61.4% were diagnosed with ocular disorders/diseases; 8% had Blindness and 92% had Visual impairment. Highest visual impairment was found due to uncorrected refractive error (62.75%) and highest blindness due to cataract (27.3%). Among 62 DR patients, mean random blood sugar levels was 238 mg/dl (SD±87.80) and majority (85.5%) had HbA1c levels in diabetic range. Out of all DR patients, 77.4% were unaware about the relationship between diabetes mellitus and retinopathy.Conclusions: Highest visual impairment and blindness were found due to uncorrected refractive errors and cataract respectively. Majority of DR patients showed poor long term control of blood sugar levels noted by high HBA1c levels and presented a noteworthy lack of awareness regarding retinopathy caused by DM.
Study of peak expiratory flow rate in young smokers in community
Authors: Mehta Bosky M. , Satani Kalpesh
Published: January 2022

Background: Inhaling of cigarette smoke has sudden effect on airways which causes an inflammation in the peripheral airways. Pulmonary function testing (PFT) provides a quantitative and objective assessment of the physiological derangement associated with pulmonary diseases. A study of PEFR in smokers and non-smokers would provide the necessary data to correlate smoking and the effect on the pulmonary health of smokers. Objectives were to study the effect of smoking on lung functions in apparently healthy young smokers and to measure the PEFR and compare the values between young smokers and non-smokers in the villages surrounding Vadodara District, Gujarat.Methods: It was a cross-sectional comparative study. With convenient sampling of total 60 male subjects which are equally divided into smokers (group A) and non-smokers (group B) group between the ages 17-25 years. The PEFR was measured by Wright’s Mini PulmoPeak Flow Meter. Three readings were taken and best of three was documented. Comparison of PEFR values between smokers and non-smokers was done.Results: The mean PEFR between smokers and non-smokers was group A is 310.00 and group B was 440.00 litres/minute (p value <0.05) and the t value was 7.608 which shows that the PEFR of smokers is significantly lower than non-smokers.Conclusions: The values of PEFR are reduced in smokers compared to non-smokers in young individuals in community and all the values are more decreased with increase in number of cigarettes smoke per day.
The effect of social media use on psychological wellbeing among students in a medical school
Authors: Lokesh Derangula , M. Swethashree , M. R. Narayanamurthy , Gopi Arun , Bhavana Mungara Suma
Published: January 2022

Background: These days, mobile technology plays a key role in influencing the impact of social media and screen time. The sheer number of hours spent on social media and how potentially harmful it is for students' psychological well-being; little research has been done on the subject. The research aims at finding out how social media use impacts the mental health of medical college students.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 553 students from January to June 2021 using purposive sampling. Rescue time mobile applications, SNSQ, and PWB scale were used to collect data. The average screen time was measured in minutes, and descriptive statistics were analyzed. A p=0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results: A total of 553 medical students participated in this study. There were 547 (98.6%) students use smartphones, the average internet cost was 282.5±167.1 rupees Maximum number of study participants is fond of using WhatsApp at regular intervals in a day 3.17±SD (0.9), followed by Instagram 2.45±SD (1.2). Social media usage screen time in minutes was observed for a week and it was found that around 123 participants (22%) spent more time, i.e., >3000 minutes, which is severe according to Munnaji et al.Conclusions: Our research showed that screen time almost always exceeded the permissible limit, but it had little effect on psychological well-being. Managing excessive screen time is important. Limiting it is ideal. Parents and students need to be educated and restricted from using screens and social media.