bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IJCM_238A: Level of awareness regarding antimicrobial resistance among residents in a hilly area of Uttarakhand: A cross sectional study
Authors: Chamoli Shefali , Rawat CMS , Goyal Neha
Published: April 2024

Background:

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a global threat to public health, it demands a comprehensive understanding and awareness among people. With overuse and misuse of antibiotics, there is increasing need to assess knowledge levels within community to formulate effective interventions. This study aims to detect this knowledge gap and contribute to the efforts in combating AMR.

Objectives:

1. To assess the level of awareness among residents of study area regarding antibiotics, their appropriate use and concept of AMR. 2. To pinpoint specific areas of misunderstanding or misinformation regarding AMR.

Methodology:

A community based cross-sectional study was conducted among community members in hilly region of Uttarakhand in October and November 2023. Simple random sampling technique was used to select respondents. A predesigned semi-structured questionnaire was used to interview the respondents by home visits. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20.

Results:

Mean age of respondents is 33.35 Â±13.8 in years, 44.7% of the respondents believed that sometimes to save time, they can purchase antibiotics from pharmacist without asking a doctor. 37.8% respondents believe that they can share antibiotics with friends or relatives for similar symptoms. There is a clear pattern in terms of age, respondents between 18-34 years of age are more aware regarding AMR as compared to higher age groups.

Conclusion:

More than half of the respondents are unaware regarding antimicrobial resistance and the specific areas of misunderstanding among respondents are that length of antibiotic course and poor sanitation and hygiene determines development of AMR.
IJCM_240A: A cross sectional study to assess the health literacy among adults attending outpatient clinics at a government tertiary care hospital in urban Bangalore.
Authors: Jayarajan Vishnu , Jadhav Jyothi , Ranganath TS
Published: April 2024

Background:

WHO defines health literacy as cognitive and social skills that determine the motivation and ability of people to understand, gain access and use the information to obtain good health. Inadequate health literacy has been linked to increased hospital admissions, poorer physical and mental health, lower use of preventive health services like vaccinations and screening tests. These ultimately lead to higher healthcare costs. This study was conducted to assess health literacy among adults attending outpatient clinics at a government tertiary care hospital in urban Bangalore.

Objectives:

To estimate proportion of inadequate health literacy and its associated factors among adults attending outpatient clinics at a government tertiary care hospital in urban Bangalore.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among adult attendees (i.e., patients and companions) of outpatient clinics of a government tertiary care hospital in urban Bangalore. Based on a study done by Almaleh. R et al. (P = 34.3%) with 7% absolute precision, the sample size was calculated as 200. A total of 200 adults attending outpatient clinics at the government tertiary care hospital were selected using simple random sampling. Data was collected using a pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire for sociodemographic factors and HLS-EU-Q16 (European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire short version) for assessing health literacy. The data collected was entered in MS Excel and analysed using SPSS 21.0.

Results:

The proportion of inadequate health literacy among study participants was observed to be 38%. Factors like educational status, age, and gender were found to have an association with it. Health literacy was found to be least in lower-educated individuals.

Conclusion:

From the present study, it was found that a large part of adult population had limited health literacy. It should be addressed through proper interventions, like ensuring basic education and health awareness programmes.
IJCM_242A: Assessment of self-medication practice among the school teachers of Bhopal
Authors: Pilkhwal Rashmi , Lanke G.W.
Published: April 2024

Background:

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) define self-medication (SM) as a practice by which an individual selects and uses medicines to treat symptoms or minor health problems, recognized as such by themselves. Self-medication has a number of negative effects, including resource waste, greater disease resistance, and drug resistance. Lack of time, convenience, and awareness parameters, as well as distorted thinking, all contribute to today’s never-ending cycle of self medication and its detrimental effects.

Objectives:

1. To determine the prevalence of use of self-medication among school teachers of Bhopal. 2. To assess the construct connection between old and new practice by pre & post test scores.

Methodology:

Quasi-experimental, pre- and post-educational intervention study of randomly selected school teachers of Bhopal, Sample Size 136.5 ~ 140 using Cochran’s formula. A pre-validated, pre-tested, close-ended multiple- choice questionnaire on Socio-Demographic information, various domains like reasons, indications, medications used and source of knowledge for self- medication was filled in digital mode before and after the lecture demonstration.

Results:

The effectiveness of the educational program on most of the components was found positive.

Conclusion:

Awareness can be created through social media platforms regarding the detrimental effects of self-medication. Teachers can be the best resource persons in the dissemination of knowledge in schools and colleges.
IJCM_243A: Knowledge, attitude, and practice study on rabies and its prevention in Nanded city of Maharashtra
Authors: Fahim Saniya Aiman Mohammad Abdul , Inamdar IF , Gattani PL , Gadekar RD , Ammarah Sana , Maidapwad SL
Published: April 2024

Background:

Rabies is a fatal disease. One of the main obstacles in reducing the prevalence of the disease is the lack of knowledge about animal bite and measures to be taken after it.

Objectives:

To access the knowledge attitude and practices related to Rabies, animal bite and utilisation of health care services related to animal bite among general population in a Nanded city of Maharashtra.

Methodology:

A cross sectional study was conducted among the general public aged more than 18 years in Nanded city of Maharashtra. Knowledge, attitude, and practices of people were assessed using a structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) software.

Results:

Out of 122 people 89.3 % believed that animal bite causes disease. 82.7% believed rabies is fatal. 79.5% believed rabies can be prevented by vaccine. 81.9 % washed their wound with soap and water while 17.2% applied turmeric or lime.

Conclusion:

Knowledge about Rabies among general public seems to be superficial. Majority of people are still inclined towards traditional practices
IJCM_247A: Perception of Medical Students on Family Adoption Programme; A Study conducted in a Medical College of Odisha.
Authors: Patra Priya Ranjan , Panda Jasmin Nilima , Bisoyi Sasmit Kumari , MadhabSatapathy Durga
Published: April 2024

Background:

Community engagement in medical education gives the students an insight into the living conditions of the public and how they influence their health. Community Medicine department accomplish this through field practice and family health studies. The Family Adoption Programme (FAP), newly mandated for all medical undergraduate students, brings its own set of challenges and opportunities. Family Adoption Programme aims to provide an experiential learning opportunity to Indian medical graduates towards community-based health care and thereby equity in health

Objectives:

1. To study the perceptions of Phase I MBBS Students on Family Adoption Program. 2. To determine the output of FAP implementation in MBBS curriculum.

Methodology:

A Cross-sectional study was conducted between August to November 2023 including 1st year MBBS students of MKCG Medical College, Berhampur, Odisha. A brief orientation was conducted by Dept. of Community Medicine on needs and competencies of FAP as recommended by the National Medical Commission(NMC). Students were sensitized to the FAP proforma prepared by the department. Periodic FAP visits for students in 4 groups was planned & conducted along with their assigned mentors at the selected nearby village. During these visits, students interacted with the families and details regarding health profile of the family were documented. Students perception & feedback was taken by Questionnaire using Google Form. A total 250 students were enrolled in FAP and 172 submitted their feedback. Data was analyzed using appropriate statistical tests and software.

Results:

The study included 172 1st year MBBS students with age range of 18-26 years & mean age of 20.58± 1.315 years. Among them, 66.9% were males & 33.1% were females.66.9% of students responded that FAP was a very good experience.55.2% of study participants were satisfied with their adopted family. Most of the students were interested to be a part of such activity throughout the professional years.

Conclusion:

Implementation of FAP requires meticulous planning, intersectoral co-ordination, good sensitization and training activities
IJCM_251A: An Assessment of client satisfaction and factors associated with services provided by Urban Primary Health Centres (UPHCs) of Raipur city.
Authors: Lakra Melisha Shilpy , Jain Kamlesh , Verma Smita , Dengani Monika
Published: April 2024

Background:

Healthcare is an important aspect of concern for individuals, involving a range of services provided to individuals, families, or communities by healthcare professionals. The objective is to promote, maintain, monitor, or restore health. Client satisfaction in health care is an important indicator used to measure the quality of services provided by the health care facilities. It is a key outcome of health care and use of services. The assessment of patient satisfaction extends across various dimensions of health services, encompassing factors such as the availability, accessibility, and convenience of services consisting of physician, pharmacy, nurses and registration services.

Objective:

To assess the client satisfaction about the services provided by Urban Primary Health Centres.

Methodology:

This is a cross-sectional observational study conducted in the Urban Primary Health Centres of Raipur city, Chhattisgarh. The Urban Primary Health Centres (8 UPHCs) are selected by simple random sampling by lottery method and the study subjects (425 study subjects) are selected by consecutive sampling. Predesigned, pretested questionnaire of socio demographic profile and predesigned, pretested, semi-structured questionnaire on client satisfaction are used for data collection which consisted of questions regarding Physical facilities, Physicians services, Nurses services, Pharmacy services, Registration services, Accessibility to services and Convenience. After collection of data, compilation of data will be done using Microsoft excel sheet. Data will be analysed using suitable statistical software (SPSS version 21)

Results:

The majority of study participants, 324 (76.2%) were females. The study showed that most, 274 (64.5%) of the study participants were between the age of 21 to 40 years. The study subjects showed satisfaction of 59.8%, 51.5%, 44.2%, 43.8%, and 42.6% for nurse’s services, accessibility to services, physician services, pharmacy services, and registration services respectively and 45.2% satisfaction for both convenience and physical facilities.

Conclusion:

The findings from this study showed that overall satisfaction with the services provided was above average. However, there was dissatisfaction observed with some services. The evaluation of patient satisfaction with healthcare services has emerged as a crucial concern. Effectively addressing this matter could serve as an important tool for healthcare providers, providing insights into both their areas for improvement and successes.
IJCM_256A: Trend in Tuberculosis Notification in Solapur district: Analysis from 2015 to 2022
Authors: Jogdand Santosh Jagannath , Bansode Minakshi , Gattani P.L. , Inamdar I.F.
Published: April 2024

Background:

India contributes approximately 25% of the missing cases of tuberculosis (TB) globally. Even though ~50% of patients with TB are diagnosed and treated within India’s private sector, few are notified to the public healthcare system. India’s TB notification policy mandates that all patients with TB are notified through Nikshay (TB notification portal). We undertook this study to assess how mandatory notification has influenced the number of TB cases reported in the Nikshay portal from the private sector from Solapur district between 2015 and 2022.

Objective:

To evaluate the contribution of mandatory notification in enhancing TB notification in Solapur district between 2015 and 2022.

Methodology:

This study employed a quantitative observational approach, using record-based data extracted from the laboratory register and the Nikshay portal. The analysis period spanned from 2015 to 2022, allowing for an in- depth evaluation of TB notification trends before and after the implementation of the mandatory notification policy in 2018. Data was compiled and analysed using MS-Excel. Frequencies, means, and proportions used to effectively describe tuberculosis (TB) case notifications in both the private and public sectors were used.

Results:

Between 2015 and 2022, Solapur district experienced a variable but overall increasing trend in TB notification rates. In 2015, the TB notification rate was 58.15 per 100,000 population, which increased to 90.69 by 2022. The annual presumptive TB examination rates showed significant growth over the years. In 2015, the rate was 628 per 100,000 population, which escalated to 1965 by 2022.

Conclusion:

This rise is indicative of enhanced TB case detection, especially after the implementation of the mandatory notification policy and increase in presumptive TB examination rates is attributed to the rising use of advanced diagnostic methods such as CBNAAT and TrueNAT.
IJCM_268A: Navigating Transformative Pathways for SDGs through Innovation, Integration, and Implementation-A review of literature
Authors: Biradar Rishab , Patel Bharat
Published: April 2024

Background:

This literature review examines some key articles addressing the theme “Transformations for achieving SDGs: Innovate, Integrate, Implement.” The articles provide insights into the concerns, strategies, and evaluation processes related to sustainable development goals (SDGs) with a focusing on India.

Objective:

The primary objectives of this literature review are to analyze the approaches highlighted in the selected articles and to identify common themes and deviations in the strategies proposed for achieving SDGs.

Methodology:

A systematic review of the selected 11 articles was conducted to fetch relevant information regarding innovations, integration approaches, and implementation strategies for achieving SDGs. Every article was scrutinized for key themes, methodologies, and their findings. The analysis considered multiple perspectives presented in the literature, including case studies, literature reviews, and working papers.

Results:

The literature review showed a multifaceted understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with achieving SDGs. Ahmad Mohd Khalid, Seema Sharma & Amlendu Kumar Dubey (2020) emphasized the specific concerns of developing countries, providing a case study for India. Srivastava (2018) advocated for standardized evaluation processes, highlighting a case study focused on India’s progress. RosÃ¡rio and Dias (2022) explored the impact of digital transition on sustainability through a detailed literature review. Additionally, insights from the Journal of Sustainability Science and Management and the working paper by Bajpai and Biberman (2020) discussed the integration of SDGs in the ICT sector.

Conclusion:

The findings suggests a variety in the pursuit of SDGs, with a diverse range of strategies and considerations. Innovations, integration efforts, and implementation methodologies vary across contexts and different sectors. The challenges discussed underscore the need for specific approaches, stressing the importance of standardized evaluation processes. Overall, the literature highlights the complexity of achieving SDGs, necessitating a comprehensive and adaptive framework that integrates innovative solutions, interdisciplinary collaboration, and effective implementation strategies.
IJCM_272A: Development of a Framework for Health Information Exchange and Interoperability in a group of Teaching Hospitals: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Kamath Raksha , Reshmi Bhageerathy , Hazarika Partha Protim
Published: April 2024

Background:

Health information exchange (HIE) is the electronic exchange of data or information between healthcare institutions, despite the fact that, the format and context of the information may vary. A robust HIE, which provides the seamless networking is not currently available. The gap in research pertaining mainly to Indian scenario where this study will be proposed would provide the much-needed evidence. The proposed study aims to develop a comprehensive framework for Health information exchange and interoperability for a group of teaching hospitals.

Objectives:

To understand and assess the current state, barriers and challenges related to HIE and interoperability; understand the perspectives and challenges of HIE and Interoperability among healthcare providers.

Methodology:

A qualitative study would be carried out among healthcare stakeholders which will serve in understanding the perspective and challenges of HIE and interoperability and develop a comprehensive framework for HIE and interoperability.

Results:

Coordinated care among the healthcare providers can be increased and serves in reducing the lost to follow up of patients which promotes patient quality of life and lowers the rate of mortality and morbidity. This will facilitate the quick access to the patient critical information, leading to better – informed diagnosis and treatment plans. This framework will significantly elevate the quality of care, streamline operations, will contribute to a reduction in mortality and morbidity.
IJCM_284A: A Community based Cross-sectional study to assess the foot care practice and its associated factors among Lymphatic Filariasis patients in rural areas of Chengalpattu district, 2023.
Authors: Kandaiah Santhosh P , Maheswari Uma R , Baranidharan B , Damodaran V
Published: April 2024

Background:

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a neglected tropical diseases, in which India has 40% of the world’s burden. LF patients suffering from disability, social stigma and severe morbidity remains as a significant public health concern. Patients to avoid acute attacks of lymphadenitis and to alleviate lymphoedema progression should have meticulous foot care practices.

Objectives:

1. To assess the foot care practices and its associated factors among lymphatic filariasis patients in rural areas of Chengalpattu. 2. To determine the association between sociodemographic characteristics and clinical foot care practice among lymphatic filariasis patients in rural areas of Chengalpattu.

Methodology:

A community based cross-sectional study was conducted in rural area of Chengalpattu by multi-stage random sampling method among 185 participants with lymphedema using a semi-structured questionnaire for regular foot care by interview. Data was collected by Epi-collect 5 software and analyzed using SPSS v 16.

Results:

Among 190 participants - 50.5% were above 60 years, 63.2% were females, 59.4% had education up to middle school, 56.8% were unemployed, 70% were from upper lower class and below. 68.4% (95% CI: 61.3-75) had good practice on foot care based on 8 recommended foot care measures. A significant association was found between good foot care practices and those above upper lower socioeconomic class [OR=3.9(1.71-8.90)], with chronic illness [OR=1.9(1.01-3.71)], with water supply at home [OR=3.64(1.23-10.7)], experiencing acute lymphadenitis attack [OR=0.345(0.14-0.82)], patient worn foot wear regularly [OR=3.51(1.26-9.74)], wearing shoes and slippers [OR=0.134(0.35- 0.51)], patient seeking OP services for filariasis regularly [OR=3.18(1.56- 6.47)] had health education[OR=3.31(1.36-8.08)] and attended training programme [OR=2.86(1.50-5.45)].

Conclusion:

Study indicated that people living with lymphoedema in rural areas of Chengalpattu district had good foot care practices. But more than one fourth of people had bad foot care practice, which can be improved by strengthening the patient follow-up, health education, training programme for patients and health care workers on foot care practice and morbidity management.
IJCM_285A: Tuberculosis Preventive Treatment among the Household Contacts of Tuberculosis Patients – Coverage and Correlates in a Block of Murshidabad District, West Bengal: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Mukherjee Ophelia , Das Dilip Kumar , Adhikary Mrinmoy , Ghosh Ritu
Published: April 2024

Background:

Tuberculosis preventive treatment (TPT) among close contacts of Tuberculosis (TB) cases is a globally accepted strategy. India targeted elimination of TB by 2025 and started implementing TPT among all household contacts. This intervention needs evaluation in different areas and population groups for effective outcome.

Objectives:

We aimed to assess the extent of TPT coverage and adherence; ascertain the reasons for non-initiation and non-adherence; and to determine the socio-demographic and programmatic correlates of coverage.

Methodology:

We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study during September-November 2023 in a block of Murshidabad district, West Bengal. A sample of 301 eligible household contacts (HHC) of ‘index cases’ (microbiologically-confirmed drug-sensitive pulmonary TB) registered in TB unit of the block during October’22 to March’23 were the study subjects. For child contacts (<12 years), mothers were considered respondents. Participants/respondents were interviewed with a pre-designed schedule with prior informed consent. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied for analysis through Statistical Package for Social Sciences (version 20).

Results:

Of 301 contacts, 179 (59.5%) individually traced/counseled at the household; 238 (79.1%) were screened for TB symptoms; 28(11.3%) had sputum examination. TPT initiation rate was 74.8% (225/301) with 47.1% within seven days of diagnosis of index case; not offered by health care providers (59.2%) being major reason for non-initiation. Completion rate with adherence to full course was 69.3% (156/225); perceived lack of need (50.7%), migration (21.7%) being major reasons for non-adherence. Overall coverage of full course TPT among total eligible contacts was only 51.8% (156/301). On multivariable logistic regression; male gender (AOR=1.982; 95% CI=1.004-3.915), HHC with individual tracing/counseling (AOR=13.507; 95% CI= 6.781-26.906) and who had symptoms screening (AOR=5.694; 95% CI=2.223-14.587) predicted significantly higher TPT coverage.

Conclusion:

Cascade of care indicators for TPT remains suboptimal in the area and highlights the need for further strengthening of programmatic aspects of its implementation.
IJCM_291A: Hygiene Practices Among Food Handlers in a Hospital Setting: A Case Study from District Hospital Parbhani
Authors: Surwase Kishor Kaluram , Doibale Mohan , Lakhmawar Nagesh
Published: April 2024

Background:

The role of food handlers in maintaining food safety, especially in healthcare settings, cannot be overstated. Poor hygiene practices can lead to foodborne illnesses, which are particularly dangerous in a hospital environment where patients may have compromised immune systems. Ensuring high standards of personal hygiene among food handlers is crucial in healthcare settings to prevent foodborne illnesses. This study focuses on the hygiene practices of food handlers in a hospital environment.

Objective:

To assess the personal hygiene practices of food handlers in District Hospital Parbhani. The study aims to identify the adherence level to hygiene standards and pinpoint areas for potential improvement in food safety practices.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional survey was employed, targeting food handlers in District Hospital Parbhani. The survey utilized a structured questionnaire to collect data on various aspects of personal hygiene, including hand hygiene, personal cleanliness, and safe food handling methods. The participants were also interviewed to understand their knowledge and attitudes towards food safety. The data collected was then systematically an analysed to identify patterns, strengths, and areas needing improvement in the hygiene practices of the food handlers.

Results:

In our study at District Hospital Parbhani, among the 126 food handlers, a notable 45.24% were below 30 years of age. When assessing hygiene practices, 74% of the handlers had clean nails, and approximately 50% practiced hand washing with soap and water after using the toilet. The cleanliness of kitchen areas was maintained by 73% of the establishments, with 62% using soap and detergents for cleaning purposes.

Conclusion:

The study highlights the critical role of rigorous personal hygiene practices among food handlers in healthcare settings. It recommends ongoing training and periodic evaluations at District Hospital Parbhani to sustain and enhance these hygiene standards, thereby ensuring the health and safety of patients and staff.
IJCM_294A: COVID-19 vaccination status and willingness for booster dose among staff and students of tertiary care institute
Authors: Sharma Nikita , Thakare Meenal Madhukar
Published: April 2024

Background:

Exposure to new COVID-19 variants and decline in herd immunity may result in new or repeat infection. The booster dose may face certain challenges that result in low uptake. The aim of the study was to assess the COVID-19 vaccination status and willingness of medical staff and students to receive further booster doses.

Objectives:

1. To assess the willingness of staff and students regarding booster dose of any COVID-19 vaccine. 2. Explore reason behind the willingness of booster dose and nasal route.

Methodology:

A cross sectional study was conducted among the staff and students of a tertiary care institute. With 5% margin of error, 95% confidence interval, intention to receive booster vaccine as 55.3% and 10% non-response rate, the sample size was calculated as 312. The participants received a web based semi-structured questionnaire through email and WhatsApp. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 24. Descriptive analysis was performed in the form of frequency and proportions for categorical variables.

Results:

About 302 participants responded to the survey. About 51.3% of them were females and 61.2% belonged to 18-29 year age group. The health workers, ancillary staff and students were 37.7%, 40% and 22.2% respectively. About 49.3% received a precaution dose while 49% had received 2 doses of any COVID-19 vaccine. About 72.1% of the participants were willing to receive another booster dose. Perception of vaccine as an immunity booster was the top reason for the willingness. About 34.2% (25/73) of them preferred nasal route for the booster with 66.3% (21/33) perceiving it convenient to administer.

Conclusion:

Knowledge about the acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine and perceptions regarding the booster dose may help to increase the readiness of medical community to uptake the booster. Alternative routes of administration and reasons for willingness may reduce the skepticism for booster dose.
IJCM_310A: Active Case Finding for Tuberculosis in outreach centres of a medical college in Puducherry, India: A Mixed Methods Study on Outcomes and Implementation Challenges
Authors: Navilson Binoth E , Konduru Rajesh Kumar
Published: April 2024

Background:

Tuberculosis is the leading cause of death from a curable infectious disease and is responsible for 9.9 million new cases and 1.3 million deaths. Over 95% of TB deaths occur in low and middle-income countries. The WHO TB statistics for India for 2021 give an estimated incidence figure of 2,590,000 million cases. In Puducherry, 4500 cases were notified in the same year, with a TB notification rate of 226 per lakh population. ACF has potential benefits but also challenges, which need to be carefully assessed when developing and implementing ACF policies.

Objectives:

1) To understand the experiences of healthcare workers during the implementation of Active Case Finding (ACF) activities 2) To assess the implementation of ACF using the feasibility indicators.

Methodology:

Qualitative interviews (IDI & FGD) were conducted among healthcare workers (Nodal Officers, Medical Officers, and Medical Interns) involved in the ACF to enumerate their experiences during the survey and the implementation challenges they faced. Additionally, a set of feasibility indicators from the literature (Hemant et al.2023) was identified to assess the implementation of ACF in outreach centres of a medical college in Puducherry.

Results:

Three overarching themes emerged through qualitative interviews: awareness of ACF and TB, implementation challenges, and mechanisms to overcome the challenges. Feasibility indicators will be elicited upon completion of data curation and analysis.

Conclusion:

The intricate details involved in the implementation of ACF would be understood through the experiences of Health Care Workers as well as quantitative estimation of ACF implementation.
IJCM_312A: Awareness regarding Mosquito-borne Diseases among Women residing in the Field Practice Area of a Medical College, Bengaluru, India – A community- based study
Authors: Renjini P S , Reddy Raveendra H R
Published: April 2024

Background:

Vector-borne diseases, especially the mosquito-borne diseases (MBD) continued to pose a serious threat in tropical and sub- tropical countries including India. They have large impact on morbidity and mortality in the country and pose economic burden on public health system. As success of Integrated Vector Management depends on adequate community participation, awareness among public is crucial.

Objectives:

To assess the knowledge regarding mosquito borne diseases among women of field practice area and its association with socio-demographic factors.

Methodology:

A community-based, cross-sectional study was conducted among randomly selected 120 women, residing in the field practice area of a medical college in Bengaluru, from September to December 2023. After obtaining the ethical clearance and written informed consent, data was collected using a semi-structed, pre-tested questionnaire. Data was entered and analysed using Epi Info version 7.2.6.0

Results:

Majority of the women were in 18-30 years age group (43.33%), 56.7% had completed secondary education and above, 43.3% belonged upper middle class. Overall, 45.8% had sufficient knowledge regarding MBDs; 81.6% were aware on mosquito bite as mechanism of transmission. Friends (90%) and television (68.33%) were the major sources of their knowledge. Education, occupation, socioeconomic status, and family type were significantly associated with the awareness (P<0.05).

Conclusion:

Overall awareness level on mosquito borne diseases among rural women was inadequate and there was a significant association between major sociodemographic factors and awareness level. There is a need to develop appropriate educational strategies to increase awareness.
IJCM_313A: Assessment of the health-related quality of life among ex-mine workers of Kolar gold fields, Kolar, Karnataka
Authors: George Jobin , Sachin KV , Joy George , Joseph Bobby , Ramesh Naveen
Published: April 2024

Background:

Karnataka ranks third with regards the number of mines in India and Kolar, at one time, had the world’s deepest and most productive gold mines. Miners are exposed to hazardous agents like silica, coal and asbestos which adversely impact health.

Objectives:

To assess the health-related quality of life (HRQL) of ex-mine workers at Kolar Gold Fields (KGF), Kolar, Karnataka.

Methodology:

An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 240 (estimated 196 with 50% prevalence) male ex-mine workers of KGF. An interview scheduled, consisting of socio-demographic factors, COPD Assessment Test (CAT) and Kings Brief Interstitial Lung Disease (KBILD) was administered. Lower CAT score and higher KBILD score indicate better HRQOL.

Results:

The mean age of the participants was 69.71±8.56 years. Participants were previously involved in drilling (113-47%) and blasting (127-53%) activities in the mines, with a mean of 14.68±6.46 years of work exposure. The mean scores for CAT and KBILD were 15.80±7.42 and 52.83±8.77 respectively. Based on CAT scores, half (51%) of participants reported medium impact of COPD on their health. Participants with longer duration of work experience had significantly higher CAT scores [OR-36.64 (12.14-110.6)]. KBILD score was significantly higher among those who worked in blasting (M=113. SD=52.14) than those involved in drilling (M=127, SD=53.43). Lower duration of work was significantly associated with higher KBILD scores (p<0.01). Adjusted logistic regression showed higher education and income had a positive impact on HRQL and an increase in age and longer work experience adversely affected HRQL.

Conclusion:

This study reveals the hazardous impact of drilling and blasting work on the health-related quality of life of ex-mine workers. Understanding this, for the future, it is important to educate workers, improve financial stability and minimize hazard exposure to enhance the quality of life of miners amidst the challenges of mining operations.
IJCM_314A: Risk perceptions of heat related illnesses, assessing vulnerability and adaptive capacity of brick- kiln workers in a rural Puducherry: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Iswarya R. , Rajini S. , Premnath D. , Pravinraj S.
Published: April 2024

Background:

Heat is one of the physical hazards that can cause health problems in the workplace, Brick field workers are widely exposed to risk factors for heat-related illnesses. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) are three of the most important means of preventing such illnesses.

Objectives:

To determine the predictors of risk perception and to assess the vulnerability and adaptive capacity regarding heat-related illness among brick field workers in Rural Puducherry.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to June (2023). A total of 280 Brickfield workers were recruited from five rural commune areas of Puducherry, using the Multistage random sampling method. The data was collected on demographic characteristics, risk perception and spontaneous adaptation behaviours through KAP scores using structured questionnaires. Chi-square tests, correlation matrix and Linear Multiple regression models were employed to analyze the data.

Results:

15.4% of the subjects suffered from HRIs, and 68.2% never received health education about HRIs. The mean for knowledge (K-score) was 13.5 (SD = 6.008) for attitudes (A-score) 4.21 (SD = 2.167) for practices (P-score) 4.23 (SD = 1.988). There were noticeable differences in KAP-score with respect to educational level (P < 0.05), income level (P < 0.05) and work relevant experience (P < 0.05). Eventually, higher educational achievements, higher income status and relevant years of work experience were positive predictors for higher risk perception.

Conclusion:

There is a large room for improving health risk perception and adaptation capacity to heat waves among the brickfield workers. It will be very important to develop health educational programmes and enrich systematic educational resources to raise awareness.
IJCM_32A: Attitude of Medical Students Regarding Empathy towards Patients in a Medical College in Mangalore
Authors: Milhan Shazeena , Chaudhary Ambika , Nomani Samrah , Coelho Steffi , Okeukwu Amaka , Singhal Piyush , Kumar Nithin , Unnikrishnan Bhaskaran , Rekha T , Mithra Prasanna , Holla Ramesh
Published: April 2024

Background:

The incorporation of medical humanities, an interdisciplinary field of medicine, in medical education may offer significant benefits to the medical community. This study was done to assess the attitude of medical students regarding empathy towards patients and to find out the perception of students about the inclusion of humanity studies to their undergraduate medical curriculum.

Methodology:

It was a Cross-sectional study done among Final Year MBBS Part One and Part Two, Post Graduate Students of Clinical Specialities and Interns of Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore and its associated teaching hospitals. Data was collected using semi-structured questionnaire which consisted of three sections including Participant information, Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy – Student’s Version (JSPE-S) which will be used to measure empathy towards patients among medical students and questions on assessing the perception of students regarding the introduction of humanity studies in the medical curriculum. The collected data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 11.5. Likert scale was analysed using median (±2SD). For qualitative data statistical test Chi-square was used

Results:

The mean age of the 410 students who were surveyed was 22.11 with a standard deviation of ± 2.136. 41% of the respondents were male and 59% were female. The Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy is measured on a scale of 20-140. Among the participants, 167 (40.7%) students scored between 46-90, categorized according to the Jefferson Scale as moderately empathetic. 243 students scored between 91-140 - categorized as high empathetic. None of the students scored between 20-45 (least empathetic category)

Conclusion:

Our study found that all the respondents were either moderately or highly empathetic according to the Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy. A majority of respondents felt that it is important to understand the feelings and body language of the patient and that the emotions of the patient and family are important in the physician-patient relationship.
IJCM_322A: A Study on Nutritional Status and its Determinants among Under-Five Children in Brick-kilns of a Rural Area of Hooghly District, West Bengal
Authors: Chaudhari Ankur , Bandyopadhyay Lina
Published: April 2024

Background:

Brick-kiln workers’ children face elevated malnutrition risk from limited healthcare, poor facilities, poverty, infections, nutritional deficits, and awareness gaps, complicating intervention efforts due to their migratory work.

Objectives:

1. To assess the nutritional status of under-5 children in brick kilns of a rural area of Hooghly district, West Bengal 2. To find out the factors associated with the nutritional status of the study participants.

Methodology:

A setting based cross-sectional study was conducted with simple two-stage cluster sampling in selected brick kilns of a rural area of Singur, Hooghly district, West Bengal from June to December 2023 among 162 participants. Participants were interviewed after obtaining informed consent about socio demography, Immunisation, WASH practices (WHO/ UNICEF JMP), dietary diversity (IDDS) and Household Food insecurity (HFIAS). Quantitative analysis was done using SPSS v16. Thematic analysis was done for qualitative strand and is still under process. Ethical approval was taken from Institutional Ethics Committee of AIIH&PH, Kolkata.

Results:

One-third of the children were more than 2 years old while male: female ratio was 1:1. 60% caregivers were illiterate. Stunting, underweight and Wasting was found to be 64%, 45%, 26% respectively. WASH practices were found inadequate for water practices (20%), sanitary practices (41%) & hygiene (50%). Still one-fourth of the participants were not fully immunised. Food diversity was absent in half of the participants while two-third participants were found to be food insecure. Maternal malnutrition, unimproved sanitary & hygiene practices, incomplete immunization, dietary diversity and household food insecurity were found to be significant (p value <0.05).

Conclusion:

The study revealed poor immunization status, malnutrition in children of Brick kiln workers. There is an urgent need for strengthening the health and nutritional interventional programmes for children of migratory population.
IJCM_325A: A Study on Relationship of Working Status of Rural Adult Women with Their Mental Health in a Rural Block of West-Bengal
Authors: Sur Aditi , Paul Bobby , Bandyopadhyay Lina , Sahu Monalisha , Basu Rivu
Published: April 2024

Background:

Mental health is a major public health concern worldwide. Studies showed that women are impacted at a higher rate than men. There is definite scarcity of studies in public health domain, which reflect the mental health and its correlates among rural women specially in relation to their working status.

Objectives:

Present study envisages to assess and compare the mental health status of working and non-working adult rural women and find out the factors associated with the mental health status of the study participants.

Methodology:

A community based; cross-sectional study was done between August 2023 to November 2023 in a rural area of Hooghly district. The sample consists of 394 women (197 working women and 197 non-working women) were selected using Multistage random sampling from 3 villages. Using the predesigned, pretested interview schedule and self-reporting questionnaire, all relevant information was collected. The collected data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS 16 version. Institutional Ethics Committee clearance was obtained.

Results:

The mean age of the study participants was 37 (± 10.09) years. Most of them belonged to socio-economic class IV. Majority of them were currently married. Around 22.33% of working women and 28.40% of non- working women had poor mental health. The factors associated with poor mental health among working women were work place atmosphere (p<0.01), attitude of colleagues (p=0.01), attitude of family members (p=0.01), social support satisfaction (p<0.01) and the factors associated with poor mental health among non-working women were satisfaction status of getting financial aid from family members (p=0.016), domestic violence (p<0.01).

Conclusion:

Awareness program regarding various aspects of mental health for both working and non-working women at family level, community level as well as at workplace could be a useful strategy in reducing this public health problem.
IJCM_332A: Factors affecting quality of life among antenatal women seeking health care in tertiary care hospitals of Mangaluru
Authors: Mithra Prasanna , Bhat Mayur K , Priyanka N P , Bavihalli Rohit S , Yatheesh  , Ayesha
Published: April 2024

Background:

QOL is defined as “individuals’ perception of their position in life in the context of the culture and value systems in which they live and in relation to their goals, expectations, standards and concerns.” Pregnancy is a physiological state associated with several emotional and physical changes, and the antenatal period is the moment of preparation of the woman for the childbirth and maternity. Thus, poor quality of life can have adverse effects on mother and the fetus. In order to develop methods to improve the quality of life of pregnant women, the factors affecting it should be understood; and our study aims at providing such understanding.

Methodology:

A hospital based Cross-sectional study of the pregnant women seeking antenatal health care in Government Lady Goschen Hospital and KMC, Attavar. The data collection was done from 14-03-16 to 31-03-16 using a questionnaire consisting of 4 parts-participant details, WHO QOL- BREF, QIDS and modified Kuppuswamy scale.

Results:

The study was done among 195 pregnant women, and the mean QOL-BREF score was found to be 73.60. 60.5% participants belonged to lower socioeconomic status, and had a lower QOL in physical, psychological and environmental domains. 54.6% participants showed symptoms of depression and had a lower QOL in physical domain. Other factors like parity, history of abortion and complications in the current pregnancy did not show a significant association with QOL score.

Conclusion:

The QOL of antenatal women seeking health care in tertiary health care setup was found to be good. The factors that significantly affected the quality of life were depression and lower socio-economic status. They had a negative impact on the quality of life.
IJCM_340A: Eating Disorders And Its Associated Factors Among Medical Students Of A Government Medical College In Karnataka- A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Anjali  , Ranganath T S
Published: April 2024

Background:

Eating disorders are behavioral conditions characterized by severe and persistent disturbance in eating behaviors and associated distressing thoughts and emotions affecting physical, psychological, and social function. The high levels of stress affecting medical students predispose them to developing burnout and mental health problems, including eating disorders. Research and awareness efforts are crucial to understand and support the specific challenges faced by these students.

Objective:

To assess the prevalence of eating disorder and its associated factors among medical students a government medical college, Bengaluru.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 students at a government medical college in Bengaluru. A stratified random sampling did from first year to fourth year medical students to select the study participants. The data was collected using a self-administered structured questionnaire, The Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26), perceived stress scale (PSS) and Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ-16B). We also calculated body mass index (BMI) for all the participants

Results:

15% (30/200) of medical students were found to be at high risk for eating disorders. The prevalence of body shape concerns among the participants were found to be 28% (56/200). Eating disorders had statistically significant associations with female gender, severe body shape concerns and higher BMI (p value <0.05).

Conclusion:

Eating disorders and body shape concerns are an emerging area of concern among medical students. The implementation of stress reduction and eating disorders preventive program during medical schools may be beneficial for the future physicians.