bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IJCM_293A: A Reflective study about knowledge assessment and feedback of medical officers involved in the training programme for management of Animal bite as per NRCP guidelines & Snakebite in Tertiary HealthCare Centre in Central India
Authors: Prasad Pankaj , Mahant Seema P , Kumar Krishna , Dabar Deepti
Published: April 2024

Background:

A training program for Management of Animal-bite as per NRCP (National Rabies Control Program) guidelines & Snakebite of Medical Officer was conducted in the Tertiary Healthcare Centre. Evaluation of such training has been rarely reported.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to reflect on the quality of this training program regarding knowledge assessment and feedback.

Methodology:

A pre-test and post-test cross-sectional assessment of knowledge of medical officers working at health facilities of Bhopal district of Madhya Pradesh government, who attended one-day training program at AIIMS Bhopal in 2023, were conducted through the same questionnaire having 18 single-answer multiple choice questions. Anonymous feedback was also taken through a semi-structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using R statistical software. The Chi-square test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the pre-and post-test proportions of correct responses and scores, respectively.

Results:

Out of a total of 54 participants, 64.8% were males. The median (IQR) age was 41 (31,52) years. The majority of the participants (68.5%) had the qualification of MBBS, 14.8% had PG degree, and the rest, 16.6%, had BAMS degree. Median (IQR) pre and post-test scores were9.0 (9.0, 12.0) and 15 (12, 16.0) respectively. All participants agreed that the training was very useful for the patient care and gave positive feedback related to the management of training.

Conclusion:

This training was very useful in terms of improvement of knowledge is concerned. More Tertiary Healthcare institutions should take the initiative to conduct such training programs for capacity building of Medical Officers working at community level.
IJCM_296A: Assessment of burden of Long Covid, and it's determinants among patients with Long Covid in the rural community in Bengaluru Rural District – A community based cross sectional study.
Authors: Gowthami P
Published: April 2024

Background:

Longer-term consequences after SARS-CoV-2 infection are becoming an important burden to societies and healthcare systems. Long COVID-19 and post COVID-19 conditions are terms used clinically to describe ongoing or new symptoms that occur beyond 12 weeks of recovery from an acute infection, that cannot be explained by an alternative medical diagnosis. It is now understood that COVID-19 can impact on multiple organ systems, which can lead to a diverse range of persistent symptoms including fatigue, breathlessness, cough, loss of taste and/or smell, myalgia, memory issues and gastrointestinal problems. Very few studies have been conducted globally to assess the burden of Long Covid which are in hospital setting and none published in Karnataka state. This community based cross sectional study intends to bridge the gap in existing evidence pool and to influence evidence-based policy decisions at local administrative level.

Objectives:

To assess the prevalence of Long covid among people infected with COVID-19 in rural community Bengaluru rural district.

Methodology:

Community based cross sectional study was conducted between October 2023 to November 2023 in Orohalli & Jadigenahalli Panchayaths of Hoskote Taluk. After obtaining written and informed consent from the participants, all adults > 18years of age residing in identified villages, with COVID-19 RTPCR positive status, tested at least 12 weeks/ 3 months prior to the date of interviewed using a prevalidated questionare and Fatigue Assessment Scale. Data is analysed using SPSS trial version 21.

Results:

420 participants were interviewed in 17 villages. Mean period between date of COVID positivity to date of interview was 490 days. 27 (6.4%) participants reported residual symptoms from COVID 19 infection suggestive of Long Covid. Majority of them complained of fatigue. Out 25 respondents with fatigue, 18 people had a score > 22 on FAS, indicative of clinical fatigue. Older age >60years, female gender, and ICU admission during infection, were associated with higher prevalence of long covid and are statistically significant (p value< 0.05)

Conclusion:

It is essential to determine the burden of longer-term consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection and the needs of affected individuals, to successfully plan healthcare services and efficiently allocate public health resources.
IJCM_297A: Perception and practices of human papilloma virus and it’s vaccine among medical students.
Authors: Shalini Baby S , Govindu S. , Lakshmi Y. Venkata , Afreen Saleha
Published: April 2024

Background:

Human Papilloma Virus is a DNA virus that causes wart, precancerous lesions, depending on the site affected increase the risk of cancer of the cervix, vagina, penis, anus, mouth, tonsils or throat. In India, cervical Cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer deaths in women aged 15 to 44 yrs. Recombinant vaccines Gardasil and Cervarix have been approved, Due to lack of knowledge, fear of side-effects & high-cost acceptance was found to be poor.

Objective:

To determine the Perception and practices of HPV virus and its vaccine among medical students.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study was conducted from JUNE to AUGUST 2023, in a tertiary care centre, among medical students from 1st to final yr. List of all the students were obtained and 75 participants from each year were selected through simple random sampling using random number table method & total 300 participants were included in the study. Data was collected by using google form, using a self-made validated questionnaire. Data was entered into Microsoft Excel & analyzed using SPSS version 26.

Results:

The study found that 61.5% of respondents were aware of HPV, with 76.5% believing it causes over 50% of cervical cancer cases. Awareness about mode of transmission was found as 88% sexually, 70.5% through needle sharing & 66.4% during pregnancy. Awareness about preventive measures found that 91.3% knew about condoms as partial protection & 39.7% said OCPs. 80% of participants being aware of the HPV vaccine, only 18.3% received it. reasons for not getting vaccinated were 56.4% had lack of knowledge &16.8% fear of side-effects. 81.9% of them aware of HPV vaccine, 24.4% said HPV vaccine’s availability for 9-14 yrs, 36.9% knew about recommended doses, 34.6% about the vaccine type.

Conclusion:

Despite of having awareness about HPV vaccine only few participants had taken the vaccine.
IJCM_298A: Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice about Hepatitis B among Medical Students
Authors: Pratap Bhadade Snehal , Gattani P. L.
Published: April 2024

Background:

Hepatitis B is a major public health problem. India is in the intermediate HBV endemicity zone (HBsAg prevalence among the general population ranges from 2% to 8%) with 50 million cases which makes it the second largest global pool of chronic HBV infection. Health workers, especially physicians and medical students are always in direct contact with patients and are vulnerable to acquire Hepatitis B infection. Present study aims to evaluate Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) towards Hepatitis B infection and vaccination among medical students.

Objective:

To evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of medical students regarding Hepatitis B infection and vaccination.

Methodology:

This was a cross sectional study conducted in Government Medical College. Junior resident and medical undergraduates were involved to assess their Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) about Hepatitis B infection and vaccination using a self-administered questionnaire.

Results:

Out of 317 participants 44.4% were males and 55.6% were females. 97.2% medical students have heard about the Hep B infection. 97.8% respondents indicated that they were aware of availability of a vaccine for hepatitis B. 54.6% (173) of total participants had received the Hepatitis B vaccination, of which only 142(82.08%) had received 3 doses of Hepatitis B vaccination.

Conclusion:

More than 50% of the surveyed participants have been vaccinated indicates a positive trend in immunization. Further efforts are needed to ensure complete vaccination especially in high-risk medical professionals.
IJCM_300A: Clinical medicine and Public health: Is the dichotomy justified? Epidemiological investigation of a Hepatitis A case admitted at a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Shibu Deepthi , Mridul M , Avinash S , Akshaya KM
Published: April 2024

Background:

Outbreaks of Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) infection have been associated with poor sanitation, inadequate sewage disposal and contamination of food and water.

Objective:

To identify the epidemiological factors associated with a patient who presented with fever and vomiting and diagnosed with Hepatitis A.

Methodology:

23-year-old, female patient was admitted in the general medicine department of a tertiary care hospital with complaints of fever and vomiting. IgM ELISA tests for Hepatitis A and Hepatitis E were positive. The patient’s mother had similar symptoms. Community Medicine department was informed about the patient. A team comprising of postgraduate students, MSW, ASHA worker and Anganwadi worker visited the patient’s house. Information including clinical history, source of drinking water, history of food and water intake from outside, sanitation and waste disposal methods of the house hold were collected. Stakeholders including the counsellor and members of the self-help group of the area were informed. House to house visit of all houses in 200 meters radius from patients’ house was done to look for more cases and to assess the environment sanitation.

Results:

The team identified that the source of drinking water of the patient’s family was a well which was not sanitary. A nearby house was identified with an open well with open sullage less than one meter away. Seven children of that household had fever and jaundice and were treated from a local hospital, one week prior. Stakeholders were also informed and both the wells were chlorinated and the families were educated about the importance of boiling water before consumption, proper disposal of sullage and waste disposal.

Conclusion:

Interdepartmental communication between clinical medicine and public health played an important role in identifying and eliminating the source of infection even when one patient was diagnosed and helped to prevent HAV outbreak.
IJCM_301A: Perceived stigma and quality of life in patients living with HIV/AIDS attending antiretroviral therapy centre in a tertiary care hospital in Jammu.
Authors: Zaffer Imran , Kumari Rashmi , Gupta Rajiv K
Published: April 2024

Background:

HIV/AIDS remains a significant global health challenge, affecting the well-being of millions around the world. While HIV treatments have demonstrated effectiveness, ongoing research indicates the persistence of various psychosocial challenges that tend to compromise the quality of life for individuals coping with HIV/AIDS. Notably, stigma associated with HIV/ AIDS remains widespread among affected individuals, exerting detrimental impacts on their overall quality of life

Objective:

To assess the quality of life in patients living with HIV/AIDS and to assess the relationship between perceived stigma and quality of life in patients living with HIV/AIDS attending an antiretroviral therapy centre in a tertiary care hospital in Jammu

Methodology:

This observational cross-sectional study was conducted among patients with HIV/AIDS over a period of 8 months who were attending an antiretroviral therapy centre in a tertiary care hospital of Jammu city of UT of J&K, using systematic random sampling. Patients were administered a questionnaire comprising socio-demographic data, (Pozqol scale) for quality of life and a short version (HSS-12) of the Berger HIV Stigma Scale. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23.0 software

Results:

A total of 300 patients were included in the study. The mean age of patients was 42.13±10.48. Mean scores for psychological, social, health and functional domains of quality of life were 10.79Â±3.76, 10.18±3.70, 8.81±3.16 and 10.76±3.35 respectively. Overall quality of life was found to be significantly associated with marital status and HIV status of spouse/partner. There were significant negative correlations between various dimensions of stigma and different domains of quality of life

Conclusion:

Our findings indicated that higher HIV/AIDS-related perceived stigma decreases the quality of life in patients living with HIV/AIDS. “Prioritizing efforts to reduce stigma, enhance healthcare plans, and improve economic conditions is crucial for fostering improvements in the overall quality of life and its associated domains in the lives of patients living with HIV/AIDS.”
IJCM_302A: Perceptions related to lifestyle modifications among Diabetes Mellitus (DM) patients in tertiary care hospitals in Mangalore
Authors: Mithra Prasanna , Goyal Parul , Sachdeva Akshay , Manakame Bharath , Shetty Prakyath , Kumar Anand
Published: April 2024

Background:

Diabetes is a chronic lifestyle disease which can be kept under control by some simple lifestyle modifications like blood sugar monitoring, dietary modification and exercise pattern. Diabetes mellitus (DM) appears to be a global epidemic and an increasingly major non-communicable disease threatening both affluent and non-affluent sections of the society.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted in tertiary care hospitals in Mangalore involving 109 participants. The study utilized the Summary Diabetes Self-Care Activities questionnaire to collect data. Practices were categorized as good or poor based on an average score, with scores above 75% indicating good and lower scores indicating poorer practices. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 16.0.

Results:

The dietary modifications were good in 7.3% of the subjects, exercise behavior in 14.67%, foot care practices in 12.6% and sugar monitoring in only 1% of the subjects. Being male and married was associated with better self-care behaviors. People belonging to low socio-economic status had better dietary modification habits.

Conclusion:

Self-care activities with respect to diet and sugar monitoring are poor in the population studied. The self-care activities relating to exercise behavior and foot care are good. Improving self-care behavior among patients with diabetes in India should start with adequate targeted health education.
IJCM_303A: Prevalence and Factors associated with treatment-seeking behaviour of Diarrhoea among children under five in India
Authors: Arya VR , Giri Anjan Kumar
Published: April 2024

Background:

Diarrhoea forms a significant public health problem in children under five years of age, especially in developing countries. The 2020 National Health Portal of India report shows 23373520 cases and 6229 deaths from diarrhoeal diseases were recorded across India. Current evidence using nationally representative data on determinants of care-seeking behaviour for Diarrhoea is limited in the Indian context. Hence, the present study complements the existing literature by examining the health-care-seeking behaviour regarding Diarrhoea among Indian children under age five.

Objective:

To study the prevalence and Factors associated with treatment-seeking behaviour of Diarrhoea among children under five in India

Methodology:

Study design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: The data for the present study were drawn from the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) conducted in 28 states and 8 union territories of India in 2019-21. Out of 222,233 children age less than five years, 16214 children having Diarrhoea were selected to explore the treatment-seeking behaviour.

Results:

Among children under five years, 7.2% suffered from diarrhoea in the two weeks receding the survey, and 76% sought treatment for Diarrhoea.

Conclusion:

Mother’s schooling is found to be important factor in health care-seeking behaviour. Thus, enhancing mothers’ awareness will help advance the healthcare-seeking behaviour.
IJCM_306A: Patient compliance towards Post exposure Prophylaxis with Anti Rabies Vaccine - Hospital based study
Authors: Chalotra Ritika , Gupta Gove Rajiv Kumar , Mahajan Richa
Published: April 2024

Background:

Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects the nervous system. The components of rabies post-exposure prophylaxis involve wound treatment, Rabies Immune Globulin, and the anti-rabies vaccine. Proper compliance with the rabies vaccination schedule is crucial to prevent development of Rabies

Objectives:

1) To assess prevalence of non-compliance and delayed compliance towards post-exposure prophylaxis of the anti-rabiess vaccine of GMC, Jammu 2) To study factors associated with and reasons of delayed compliance and non-compliance towards post-exposure prophylaxis of the anti-rabies vaccine of GMC, Jammu Methodology: A cross- sectional study was carried out from September 2022 to July 2023 on 594 animal bite victims presenting to OPD of the anti-rabies clinic of GMC, Jammu for the first time, with category 2 and 3 bites were included

Results:

Males were about 76.9%, and females, 23.1%. Graduates were 29.3%. Animal bites were mainly from stray dogs (58.2%), with category three wounds (93.8%). Wound washing practices were done by 540 (90.9%), about 58 (9.8%) had used only water and about 482 (81.1%) had used only soap and water for wound washing. 71.7% completed the full course of Anti-Rabies Vaccine (ARV), 24.6% showed delayed compliance, and 3.7% were non-compliant or dropouts. Delayed compliance was observed on the second (35%), third (42.4%), and fourth doses (22.6%). Reasons for delayed compliance included distant residence, loss of wages, and forgetfulness. Non-compliance reasons included negligence and health issues. No socio- demographic factors showed an association with compliance with ARV.

Conclusion:

The urgent need to increase awareness and counseling for individuals bitten by animals. Special attention is crucial for promptly administering Anti-Rabies Immunoglobulin in severe cases (category 3 bites) to prevent rabies
IJCM_307A: Perception and practice of Nipah among first year undergraduate medical students of knct medical college
Authors: Razak Hafna M , Jayakrishnan T , Manju T. L , Mohandas Bindu , Laxman Anjali , Krishna Sruthi P
Published: April 2024

Background:

Nipah infection is a zoonotic disease caused by Nipah virus with a very high case fatality rate (40-75%). The current outbreak (12-15 September 2023) was the third Nipah virus outbreak in Kozhikode district of Kerala, and overall the fourth outbreak in Kerala state since 2018. The state government had declared containment zones in the district and there was restriction of movement, public gatherings; wearing of masks and social distancing was mandatory in public spaces. The educational institutions including professional colleges were closed as a precautionary measure and switched to online classes. In this context, this study was conducted among the first-year medical students of KMCT medical college

Objective:

To assess the Perception and Practice about Nipah among first year undergraduate medical students of KMCT medical college

Methodology:

A cross sectional study was done among 2023 batch students of KMCT medical college students from September 18th to October 28, 2023. All the 150 students were taken by universal sampling for the study, out of which 144 were present at the time of data collection. Data was collected by investigators using a semi-structured questionnaire consisting of knowledge, attitude and practice-based sections. Scoring was done. The data was analyzed and recorded as frequencies and percentage.

Results:

Majority of the students (69%) had poor knowledge on Nipah, 29% had satisfactory knowledge and 2% of the students had very good knowledge. Majority of the students (89%) had good attitude towards Nipah while 10% had poor attitude. 68% students were found to have followed excellent practices, 30% had followed satisfactory practices while 2% had not practiced any good etiquette needed during an outbreak.

Conclusion:

Though they were having poor knowledge about Nipah, they followed good practices that helped in preventing and controlling the disease.
IJCM_31A: Menstrual characteristics and school absenteeism among adolescent school girls of Aligarh--A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Karthika P , Abedi Ali Jafar , Mehnaz Saira , Tabassum
Published: April 2024

Background:

Menstruation is a significant event during adolescence. It is often a challenging period for adolescent girls since it poses significant challenges. The stigma associated with menstruation, difficulties due to menstrual disorders, and period poverty can often lead to school absenteeism and school dropout among girls.

Objectives:

1) To identify menstrual characteristics and explore the symptoms associated with menstrual cycles among adolescent schoolgirls of Aligarh. 2) To examine whether adolescent schoolgirls experience absenteeism during menstruation and to elucidate the reasons for such occurrences.

Methodology:

This is a cross-sectional study carried out among adolescent school girls of Aligarh. Two urban and two rural schools were selected randomly from the co-educational schools in Aligarh, with inclusion criteria comprising adolescent girls in grades six to ten who had experienced menarche at least six months prior. Parental consent and participant assent were obtained, resulting in the participation of 164 students. Data collection was conducted through a questionnaire method.

Results:

The respondents’ average age was 14.5±1.33 years, with 84.1% exhibiting regular menstrual cycles out of the 164 participants. The mean age at menarche was 12.7±1.02, and the average duration of menstruation was 4.90±1.54 days. Only 12% of students did not experience pain during menstruation, while the majority reported mild (35.4%), pain only on the first day (30.5%), or excessive (2.8%) pain. Predominant pre-menstrual symptoms included irritability, mood disturbances, and breast tenderness. Despite these challenges, a majority of students (84.1%) affirmed not taking leave during menstruation. Among those who did, the reasons included a lack of facilities for changing pads, insufficient disposal systems for pads, and dysmenorrhoea.

Conclusion:

This study sheds light on the menstrual characteristics and challenges faced by adolescent schoolgirls in Aligarh. Despite the challenges, the students attend school during menstruation which shows the importance of targeted interventions to address the challenges
IJCM_311A: Epidemiological profile of tuberculosis cases at an urban slum in a metropolitan city a cross sectional study
Authors: Pinto Tanvi , Chavan Y.B , Singh Vijaykumar
Published: April 2024

Background:

The WHO Global Tuberculosis Programme works towards the goal of a world free of TB, with zero deaths, disease and suffering due to the disease. Tuberculosis (TB) is a preventable and usually curable disease. Yet in 2022, TB was the worlds second leading cause of death from a single infectious agent, after coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The reported global number of people newly diagnosed with TB was 7.5 million in 2022; this is the highest number since WHO began global TB monitoring in 1995. Around 87% of new TB cases occurred in the 30 high TB burden countries, with more than two-thirds of the global total in Bangladesh, China, Democratic Republic of the Congo, India, Indonesia, Nigeria, Pakistan and the Philippines.

Objective:

To study the epidemiological profile of tuberculosis cases in an urban slum of Mumbai.

Methodology:

A retrospective record-based analysis of secondary data on tuberculosis (pulmonary and extrapulmonary) reported on the NIKSHAY portal between January to December 2022 at an urban health training center in an urban slum in Mumbai.

Results:

The total number of drug sensitive TB cases reported in 2022 was 519. Males constituted 42% and females 58%. The most common age group affected was 20-29 years. Pulmonary cases comprised 66.9% of the cases. The total number of Drug resistant TB cases reported were 75, 53 were pulmonary & 22 were extrapulmonary.

Conclusion:

In contrast to Male predominance (52.26%) of cases in Maharashtra, the urban slum had 42% males affected. India grapples with multiple challenges in combatting tuberculosis (TB), marked by a high disease burden, diagnostic delays, drug resistance, and socioeconomic barriers. While significant strides have been made through programs like the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program, the path to eradication demands continued efforts.
IJCM_316A: Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among school teachers in Ernakulam district, Kerala
Authors: Joy Sarah , Menon Vishnu b
Published: April 2024

Background:

Work-related Musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD) stand as a prevalent and significant occupational health issue within the teaching profession. Despite being overlooked for an extended period, there has been a growing level of concern about this issue in recent years.

Objectives:

1. To estimate the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among school teachers in Ernakulam district, Kerala. 2. To determine the risk factors associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders.

Methodology:

A cross sectional study was conducted among 114 school teachers in Ernakulam district selected by multistage cluster sampling. A structured interview schedule was used to assess the sociodemographic and occupational characteristics. To investigate the musculoskeletal disorders, they were interviewed with the modified Nordic questionnaire. The data was entered in MS excel and analysis was done using SPSS version 21.0.

Results:

Mean age (SD) of the participants was 43.25 (7.56) years. The prevalence of Work-related Musculoskeletal disorders at any part of the body over the past 12 months among teachers was 52.6%. Knee pain (41.6%) was the most prevalent WRMSD followed by ankle (38.3%) pain. Commonly perceived risk factor was standing for prolonged periods (81.6%). Stair climbing was found to be the most difficult Activity of Daily Living affected due to the symptoms (55%). Calcium/Vitamin D supplements, intake of calcium rich diet and body mass index were significantly associated with WRMSD.

Conclusion:

The results highlighted the crucial need to follow ergonomic guidelines in order to reduce the strain on the musculoskeletal system experienced by teachers.
IJCM_321A: Circumstances and Distribution of Needle Stick Injuries among Healthcare Workers in a Medical College of Kolkata
Authors: Dhar Smita , Datta Mousumi
Published: April 2024

Background:

Needle-stick injuries (NSI) are common among Health- Care workers (HCWs) during execution of their patient care services and have been recognized as an important source of exposure to blood-borne pathogens. Considerable number of NSIs are not reported which prevents injured HCWs from receiving post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) against HIV, Hepatitis B and C.

Objective:

To assess the circumstances and reporting of Needle -stick Injuries and its association with service related and demographic variables of healthcare workers in a tertiary level hospital of Eastern India.

Methodology:

Descriptive, cross-sectional, hospital-based study. The study was conducted among 108 healthcare workers from 20th July to 20th August. Data were collected on Socio-demographic, Service related and events of Needle Stick Injuries and their reporting by an interviewer administered schedule.

Results:

About 72% study participants suffered from needle stick injury in last one year, 53.85% of them had a single event of NSI and 64% of NSI victims reported the event. Gender, educational status, occupation, vaccination status against Hep B, shift of duty during last NSI, place of last NSI were significantly associated (p value).

Conclusion:

Incidents of needle stick injuries were more among doctors. Participants completely vaccinated with Hep B vaccine suffered lower number of NSI.
IJCM_326A: Access to Contraceptives for Migrants: Understanding how to improve family planning coverage in Brick Kiln in Northern India- A mixed methods study
Authors: Saranya  , Sharma Charu , Sathiabalan M , Kathirvel S
Published: April 2024

Background:

Family planning is a key means to achieving many of the Sustainable Development Goals. Lack of data in marginalized populations on knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) hampers efforts to improve modern contraceptive practice.

Objectives:

To assess the knowledge, attitude and family planning practices and understand the facilitators and barriers for adopting family planning methods.

Methodology:

Cross-sectional study among men and women workers of reproductive age group and in-depth interviews (IDIs) in selected women worker of reproductive age group; were conducted. Qualitative data were described in proportions and compared using standard statistical tests. Qualitative data were coded and grouped and discussed using identified themes.

Results:

Among 85 migrant workers studied, more than two-third of the workers had no formal schooling. Only 38% were found to have practiced any Family Planning Methods (FPM), among the non-usage of any FPM, it has been found that 37% were never felt the need for FPM, 21% had no knowledge regarding any FPM. The facilitators identified for FPM were knowledge & practice about FPM, felt need for a small family, health system support, family support. As a migrant worker, they face multiple barriers like, difficulty in identifying the health facility, increased work time, difficulty in comprehending the local language and inaccessible frontline healthcare workers.

Conclusion:

The finding stresses the need to shift focus towards building intention, in addition to ensuring access of trained staff, and commodities drugs and equipment, and building capacities of health care providers
IJCM_327A: An assessment of quality of life among women working in public sector units
Authors: Thirunavukkarasu Sriranganathan , Karthikeyan K , Tamilarasan M. , Sriandaal V.
Published: April 2024

Background:

Women hold unequal roles and prestige in practically every society and area of life; as a result, it is important to empower them by giving them equal opportunity. The growth of human capital is crucial for individual growth and performance, particularly in terms of productivity and quality of life. Occupational stress is a syndrome of emotional tiredness, dissociation, and decreased self-confidence. A healthy lifestyle requires good mental health, and depression is a major factor in the quality of life (QOL) condition as measured by self-reported assessment measures. The study’s objectives were to evaluate quality of life (QOL) among women working in public sector units, their level of empowerment in many spheres of life, and the factors influencing that empowerment and how it relates to QOL and demographic parameters.

Objectives:

To describe the socio-demographic profiles of women working in public sector unit and to evaluate the quality of life among them.

Methodology:

Between April to June 2023, a total of 100 women working in public sector units participated in this study by snowball sampling technique at Neyveli, Tamil Nadu. All qualitative variables were presented as frequencies and percentages. The prevalence rates were given in percentages. Mean and Standard deviation was used at calculate continuous variables example age.

Results:

The overall score obtained by the participants in the study conducted of which 32% has scored 75-85, 31% has scored <75, 30% has scored 85-95, and 7 % has scored >95 among the population of 100 participants. The women had a mean QOL score of 79.41 ± 11.52.

Conclusion:

Human health is integrally tied to quality of life (QoL), a complex and diverse concept that encompass the physical, psychological, spiritual, social, and economic realms. QoL is a dynamic, subjectively measured object.
IJCM_328A: Operational Research on Capacity Building of Community Health Workers in Screening for Depression and Suicide risk
Authors: Angeline G. Nancy , Paul Jackwin Sam , Hegde Divya , Sudha Sri , Karikalan  , Nancy Luciya , Abraham Vinod Joseph
Published: April 2024

Background:

The basic training for ASHA workers in Tamil Nadu include a module on Non-Communicable diseases with inadequate focus on Mental Health. As a part of the Community Based Assessment Checklist, ASHAs are trained in administration of Patient Health Questionnaire-2 to screen for depression. However, there is significant gap in the primary prevention of depression in the communities in terms of screening, basic counselling services and knowledge and attitude among community health workers

Objective:

This study aimed to assess the feasibility of capacity building of Community Health Workers in screening for depression and suicide risk and provision of Psychological First Aid Services

Methodology:

117 Community Health Workers including ASHAs, AWWs, ANMs, WHVs, VHNs and UHNs were trained in WHO Psychological First Aid, PHQ-9 administration and WHO MhGAP 10 questions on suicide risk screening in Thiruvannamalai, Vellore and Tiruvallur District of Tamil Nadu

Results:

Of the 1371 individuals screened, 13.18% were positive for depression and 38% were positive for atleast one suicide risk. The most common suicide risk observed was chronic pain followed by extreme hopelessness. PHQ-9 and Suicide risk assessment was easy to administer among ANM, VHN and UHNs. However, ASHAs and Women Health Volunteers reported that PHQ-2/WHO Wellbeing Index was an easier tool to use in the field. Psychological First Aid training can be easily delivered by non-medical professionals to health workers.

Conclusion:

Community Health Workers can provide primary prevention in mental health by provision of Psychological First Aid to their community. Depression screening should be simplified by PHQ-2/WHO Well being index
IJCM_329A: Prevalence of Impostor Phenomenon and its association with Depression, Anxiety and Stress in undergraduate medical students
Authors: Alok Yash , Kenguva Nikhil Kumar , Sufyan Mohd. , Udupa Suma T
Published: April 2024

Background:

Clance and Imes coined the term “impostor phenomenon,” or IP, which causes a person to choose to elevate the achievements of others and belittle their own successes. This results in constant self-underappreciation and anxiety about a task. The field of medical science is a highly pressure-intensive and competitive field. In the medical field, where patients’ lives are involved daily, a condition like this which is going undiagnosed, will affect the duties provided by the medical practitioner in the long run. They will doubt every decision they make, which can seriously harm the patient. All these reasons show the necessity of discovering new and more advanced techniques to identify the disorder. As a result, this condition develops into more severe forms. It results in more serious psychiatric conditions that can be prevented if IP is identified correctly.

Objective:

To identify the prevalence of Imposter Phenomenon and to find its associations with depression, anxiety, and stress in medical students

Methodology:

It was a cross sectional study done among undergraduate students of a private medical college in Manipal. About 377 undergraduates participated in the study. Data was collected using the Clance IP scale and DASS-21 questionnaire after taking relevant permissions. The data was collected in an excel sheet from the responses derived from the Microsoft form. Data was analyzed using the open-source statistical software Jamovi 2.0.

Results:

It was observed that more than half of the students were female. More than two fifths of the students reported having frequent IP experiences, and about 15% of them reported intense IP experiences. Positive correlation was observed between IP and Stress, Anxiety and Depression.

Conclusion:

Impostor Phenomenon should be diagnosed and identified early in medical undergraduates to reduce mental health issues in the long run so they may be able to provide quality medical care.
IJCM_330A: Prevalence and predictors of postpartum depression among females attending tertiary hospital Jammu
Authors: Bala Jyoti , Kumari Rashmi , Gupta Rajiv
Published: April 2024

Background:

Puerperium or Postpartum period is the period of first six weeks postpartum which begin immediately after parturition. During this time woman is adapting to multiple physical, social and psychological changes. Early identification of such symptoms is crucial for its prompt treatment. Many women develop depressive symptoms.

Objective:

is to find out the prevalence and factors associated with Postpartum Depression especially the social support.

Methodology:

this cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of one year among mothers who were in the period of 4-7 weeks postpartum. The participants were assessed using the scales -Edinburgh Postnatal Depression scale, Hamilton depression Rating scale and Multidimensional scale of perceived Social Support (MSPSS). Statistical analysis was done using spss version (20.0) info. Appropriate statistical tests were used. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

Out of 750, 16.1% had postpartum depression, (a score of =10 on EPDS). The factors which were significantly associated included marital status, religion, residence, education of mother and her husband, history of domestic violence, history of mental illness in the past, family history of mental illness, duration of pregnancy, time since delivery, any complication during pregnancy, birthweight of baby and planned parenthood. Social support shows negative correlation with PPD which is statistically significant

Conclusion:

The prevalence of depression in postpartum mothers is high, various sociodemographic and obstetric factors are significantly associated with it. social support emerged to be protective in reducing the postpartum depression.
IJCM_331A: Helping beyond the Helpline – Experience from a Unique Model for Mental Health Care among Frontline workers during COVID – 19 Pandemic in Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Sathiyanarayanan S , Aravindakshan Rajeev , Reddy Vijaya Chandra
Published: April 2024

Background:

Psychological issues among Health Care Workers (HCWs) in COVID-19 stem from the fact that normal people are being exposed to extraordinary situations. Facing this critical situation, it is essential to ensure that these personnel are identified early and offered appropriate intervention. Hence, AIIMS Mangalagiri partnering with UNICEF started a project to reach out to all frontline workers in the state of Andhra Pradesh.

Objectives:

To set up a Psycho-Social Counselling (PSC) system for healthcare & other front-line workers in the state of Andhra Pradesh to handle stress due to COVID–19 To conduct capacity-building programs for health care & other front-line workers to prevent psycho-social conditions arising due to COVID–19

Methodology:

A simple Mental Health Screening Questionnaire (MHSQ) was developed and validated in the local language. After getting prior approvals, a Google form link of the MHSQ was sent via email, SMS, and WhatsApp to every frontline worker in the state. Consenting participants with scores above 6 were contacted personally by the psychologists for further detailed evaluation. A helpline number for counseling was publicized and psychologists conducted sessions on mental health awareness and coping strategies in various institutes across the state.

Results:

About 8,217 respondents attempted the MHSQ out of which detailed mental health evaluation (GAD-7, PHQ-9, CAGE, AUDIT, and PSQI) was done for 392 respondents. The most common issues identified were Anxiety (45%), Insomnia (42%), Depression (12%), and Substance Abuse (2%). Also, as a part of the mental health capacity-building campaign around 4,500 healthcare workers like nurses, Anganwadi teachers, and ANMs were trained offline across the state, along with the District Mental Health team.

Conclusion:

Mental health can have a significant impact on the competence of frontline workers. In addition to existing interventions available, confidential mental health intervention and service provision are the need of the hour.
IJCM_334A: The struggle within: suicidal ideation and its risk factors among the undergraduate medical students
Authors: Jayasudha Jayaraman , Padmasri Y. , Mounika Ronanki
Published: April 2024

Background:

Suicide is one of the top three causes of death among the adults worldwide, which is increasingly seen among students. Medical education is often considered highly stressful, in addition to the usual psychological issues in the youth. Mental health issue is a subject of taboo even among the medical students leading to non-help seeking behaviour. Studies report a high prevalence of suicidal ideation among medical students in India, ranging from 1.8% to 53.6%.

Objectives:

1. To assess the prevalence of ‘suicidal ideation’ and associated risk factors among undergraduate medical students

Methodology:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among Phase 2 and 3 undergraduate students of a government medical college after taking IEC approval. Information on socio demographic details along with known risk factors was obtained. Beck scale for suicide ideation was used for screening and assessment of suicidal ideation. Data was analysed as proportions and percentages and chi square was applied to test the significance of association.

Results:

Out of the total 192 participants 118 (61.4%) were boys and 74 (38.6%) were girls. History of mental illness was present among 33 (16.6%) students. Fourteen students (7.2%) had high BSS score on screening. Within this subgroup of students reporting suicide ideation (n=14), 9 students (69.2%) had seriously contemplated suicide, while 2 students (15.3%) had attempted suicide at least once in their life time. Students who had previous history of mental illness showed higher prevalence of suicide ideation which was statistically significant (p<0.001). However, no significant associations were identified between gender of the student, mother’s occupation, or a history of mental illness among family members and suicide ideation among the medical students.

Conclusion:

Medical students need to be assessed for their mental health and appropriate care and support should be provided to the needy to prevent fatal outcomes among them.
IJCM_335A: Geriatric depression and associated factors: a community-based study in a rural area of Central Kerala
Authors: Chinky M , Bhaskar Anita
Published: April 2024

Background:

Aging is a complex biological process associated with cellular and molecular damages. Rural India comprises 70 percent of the total geriatric population of the country. Kerala being a demographically advanced state have greater proportions of older population than the national average. Elderly constitutes a vulnerable group for depression, as they are especially prone to suffer adverse consequences of a depressive episode. Depression can cause great suffering and can lead to impaired functioning in daily life.

Objective: :

To estimate the prevalence of depression and determine the associated factors among elderly aged 60 years and above using Geriatric Depression Scale in Tholur Panchayath of Thrissur district, Kerala

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study was done among 200 older adults aged 60 years and above in October 2022 in Tholur village panchayat area of Thrissur District in Kerala. Using cluster sampling technique study participants were identified. After obtaining informed consent, a pretested questionnaire is administered to obtain sociodemographic characteristics and details of comorbid illness. The Geriatric Depression Scale, short-form questionnaire, was used as a screening tool for depression. Data was entered in MS Excel and statistically analyzed using the IBM SPSS software (trial version).

Results:

The mean age of the study population was 70.59 ± 7.89 years. 64.5% of the study population were females. 16.5% had mild depression, 10% had moderate depression and 11% had severe depression as per the geriatric depression scale (GDS) scoring.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of depression among the elderly was 37.8 %, and hence early diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential to reduce its burden in the community
IJCM_338A: Burden Of Common Mental Health Disorders Using GHQ-12 Scale Among The Tribal And Rural Elderly Population In Mysore District.
Authors: Jolly Sebin , Khan Mudassir Azeez
Published: April 2024

Background:

Common mental disorders (CMD) are a group of distress states manifesting with anxiety, depressive, and unexplained somatic symptoms and are the contemporary equivalent to the older concept of neurotic disorders. Various prevalence studies have shown that elderly population are more vulnerable to such mental health disorders as compared to the younger population. The available literature indicates that there is hardly any effort to understand the morbidity and the needs of such elderly people.

Objective:

i. To estimate the burden of common mental disorders among tribal and rural elderly population using GHQ -12. ii. To estimate the association between common mental disorders and sociodemographic factors.

Methodology:

This is a community based cross sectional study. It was among the tribal and rural elderly population of Mysore district from June to September 2023 using General Health Questionnairre-12(GHQ-12). The 12-Item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) is the most extensively used screening instrument for common mental disorders. The GHQ-12 has generally demonstrated good sensitivity and specificity in various populations. The sampling method adopted for this study was multistage sampling and in the final stage participants were selected using simple random sampling

Results:

The prevalence of common mental disorders was 35% among rural elderly population and 43% among tribal elderly population. The prevalence of common mental disorders was found to be high among women in both rural and tribal elderly population and the difference was found to be statistically significant

Conclusion:

There are limitations in the study as cross-sectional type of study design was used. Further, analytical studies can be conducted to prove the causative association between common mental disorders and various socio- cultural factor. However, the findings of the study can be used to plan the necessary interventions in the field of elderly mental health