bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IJCM_51A: Comorbidities among COPD patients admitted to a tertiary care hospital in Mangalore
Authors: Unnikrishnan Bhaskaran , Rathi Priya , Acharya Vishak , Jakhar Fiza , Kowsik Guru Sai , Potti  , Khattar Nicita , Mittal Tanvi , Hironi Vidushi , Rekha T , Mithra Prasanna , Kumar Nithin , Holla Ramesh
Published: April 2024

Background:

According to WHO, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) associated mortality in India is more than 64.7 estimated age- standardized death rate per 100,000 amongst both sexes. Various studies conducted on COPD, worldwide suggest that patients are more likely to die of comorbid conditions than from COPD.

Objective:

To find out the various co-morbidities among COPD patientsattending tertiary care hospitals in Mangalore.

Methodology:

This is a records-based study set in KMC Hospital Attavar, Mangalore. Records of all the COPD patients who attended the hospital in the last 2 years (2016-2017) in KMC Attavar were collected. Case files in which more than 50% of data is incomplete were excluded.

Results:

A total of 473 COPD patients were admitted in the last two years in KMC Attavar Hospital. The Mean (SD) age of patients was 68 (10) years. Males were found to be affected in a larger proportion than females. Median (IQR) duration of diseases was 2.28(1, 2) years. The maximum duration was 22 years and the minimum was 2 months. GOLD’s classification was available for 66 patients, wherein most of the patients had moderate to severe forms of COPD. Around 408(86%) of the COPD patients had one or the other comorbidities. Most COPD patients suffered from metabolic disorders (58%) common being HTN (66%) and DM (45%). The mortality rate was 5.7% which corresponds to 27 patients, with the most common cause being respiratory failure followed by sepsis.

Conclusion:

The most common comorbidity among COPD patients was Diabetes mellitus and Hypertension so the patients should also be screened for the same in the hospital. The most common cause of mortality seen among COPD patients was Respiratory failure which is a complication of COPD so it should also be kept in mind during treatment.
IJCM_52A: Profile and outcome of gestational diabetes mellitus in a tertiary care teaching hospital
Authors: Upadya Shishir M , Meghavarshini K R , Nayak Prathvi P , Rao Sushanth S , Shettigar Apeksha V , Gupta Dhruv , Rao Mithun , Holla Ramesh , Kumar Nithin , Motappa Rohith
Published: April 2024

Background:

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a Glucose tolerance disorder first diagnosed during pregnancy. WHO recommend that all pregnant women or at least women with predisposing risk factors should be screened at the beginning of the 3rd trimester of pregnancy with the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT). Here, blood glucose level is screened 2hrs after giving a 75g oral glucose load. This is recommended for both screening and diagnosis. Not many studies have been done regarding the outcome of GDM mothers in India.

Objective:

1. To describe the Obstetric profile of the mothers 2. To assess the outcome of GDM among the Mothers 3. To determine the neonatal outcome of GDM.

Methodology:

Study setting: The study was carried out at Kasturba Medical College Hospital, Attavar, and District Lady Goschen Hospital, Mangalore. Study design: Hospital based retrospective study. Study population: Pregnant women admitted to above mentioned hospitals with GDM and the new born. Inclusion criteria: All women diagnosed with GDM and have delivered in District Lady Goschen Hospital or KMCH Attavar. Sample size was 266.

Results:

Our study concluded that 24.8% of the women with GDM also had Pregnancy Induced Hypertension, which is comparable to the study done in Qatar where they found 19.2% of the women with GDM suffered from PIH. We also found that 15.8% of the women suffered from Pre-Eclampsia, over twice the percentage of people surveyed in the Qatari study. However the amount of babies suffering from Macrosomia was only 6.8% as opposed to 10.3% according to the aforementioned study and 19.3% as was found in a study in Poznan, Poland.

Conclusion:

No significant association was found between obstetric profile and antenatal & postpartum complications.
IJCM_53A: Association between women’s autonomy and unintended pregnancy in India using NFHS- 5
Authors: Janani Soundarya , Kumar Nithin , Rekha T , Unnikrishnan Bhaskaran , Mithra Prasanna , Holla Ramesh
Published: April 2024

Background:

Numerous research studies conducted in low- and middle- income nations have suggested that women’s autonomy can be a major factor in lowering the rate of unwanted pregnancies. In the Indian setting, where patriarchy is prevalent and women’s participation in crucial choices is restricted by sociocultural norms, there is limited data on women’s autonomy. The National Family Health Survey 2019-2021 (NFHS-5) provides information on population, health, and nutrition for India and each state/union territory (UT). Data of 4,00606 women aged 15-49 years who reported their reproductive intentions were extracted and analysed in which 3,70,691 had a birth in the last five years and were not pregnant, and 29,915 women were pregnant at the time of the survey.

Objective:

To determine the association between women’s autonomy and unintended pregnancy in India.

Methodology:

The National Family Health Survey-5 conducted in 2019-21 was used for the analysis. Information on ever-married women was extracted from women aged 15-49 years. Bivariate logistic regression was used to examine the association of unintended pregnancy with women’s autonomy, demographic, socio-economic, and social context variables.

Results:

The highest proportion of unintended pregnancies 12.82% were found in the women with low autonomy. A significant difference was seen between the pregnancy intention of respondents and their demographic, economic and social covariates. The prevalence of unintended pregnancy was higher among women who were in the age group 15-24 years, in the poorest wealth quintile, lived in rural areas, had more than three children, and who married before the age of 18 years.

Conclusion:

Improvement in women’s autonomy can reduce unintended pregnancy in India. Women with higher autonomy will be able to regulate their fertility and can appropriately limit their family size.
IJCM_54A: Medical curriculum and published literature with focus on usage of appropriate LGBTQIA+ language: A situational analysis
Authors: Mridul M , Bhargava Madhavi , Hegde Pavithra
Published: April 2024

Background:

A sensitive language usage is important in scientific literature when reporting “lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual and other identities” (LGBTQIA+) and medical education can play an important role towards early sensitization of future professionals.

Objective:

To evaluate the competency based undergraduate curriculum (CBME) guidelines by National Medical Council and to conduct a content analysis of published medical education articles related to LGBTQIA+.

Methodology:

We reviewed the CBME guidelines for competencies pertaining to sensitization of medical students regarding LGBTQIA+. For content analysis, we searched PubMed using the MeSH terms “”Sexual and Gender Minorities”” AND “”Education, Medical”, restricting our search to English language. The Press Council of India (PCI) guidelines were used as reference for preferred and non-preferred terms.

Results:

At present, NMC has not brought about any teaching modules or sensitization on LGBTQIA+ for the undergraduate curriculum. However, the related competencies were psychosexual and gender identity disorders in Psychiatry (PS 13.1-13.7) and gender issues and women empowerment in community medicine (CM 10.9). A total of 177 articles were retrieved from PubMed. We selected 30 relevant articles, of which12 (40%) were from India. Majority of them (94%) complied to the PCI guidelines on LGBTQIA+, with respect to terms such as ‘transgender’, ‘transman’, ‘transwoman’ and ‘LGBTQ’. One Indian article used the term ‘transgenders. There was no usage of derogatory terms such as ‘eunuch’ and ‘victims’. Terms such as ‘Gender Non-conforming’ and ‘Gender affirming surgery’ were used in some surgery articles (6%) with no use of avoidable terms like ‘sex change surgery’ and ‘sex reassignment surgery’.

Conclusion:

The CBME needs to add specific LGBTQIA+ related competencies in the curriculum. The language in the medical education articles reviewed largely conformed with the PCI guidelines on LGBTQIA+ reporting with a fair, respectful, and informative coverage.
IJCM_57A: Assessment of quality of Sleep among working women of an urban area in Ernakulam district-A cross-sectional study
Authors: Johnson Melvi , Ajay Aparna
Published: April 2024

Background:

Women from diverse backgrounds in India are now employed, facing challenges that impact their sleep and well-being. The demands of their jobs, extended working hours, family responsibilities, lifestyle changes, and various socio-demographic factors make unwinding and falling asleep difficult.

Objective:

The study was conducted to assess the quality of sleep and the sociodemographic factors affecting it among the working women of an urban area in Ernakulam District, Kerala.

Methodology:

A community based cross sectional study was conducted among 141working women aged 18 years and above residing at Perumbavoor municipality of Ernakulam district. Women who were paid wages for their work were considered as working women. From the 27 wards in the Perumbavoor municipality 14 wards were selected randomly. From each selected ward 10 households were sampled by systematic random sampling. If more than one working woman was found in a house only one woman was interviewed. Data was collected using semi structured questionnaire and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used to assess the quality of sleep.

Results:

69.5% of the working women belonged to the age-group of 30-39 years, 80.1% belonged to APL category by colour of ration card, 90.1% were married, 22% worked for more than 8 hours and 11% worked in night shifts. Poor sleep quality was seen in 70.9 % of working women with mean PSQI Score 6.17(SD + 2.68).76.37% married women had poor sleep quality compared to 21.4%of unmarried/widowed women (?2=18.46, d f=1, p<.0001).

Conclusion:

The study suggests poor quality of sleep among working women. Counselling sessions could help them set up a daily routine that will help them improve their sleep patterns.
IJCM_58A: A Cross- sectional study to assess the prevalence of Breast self-examination practices and its awareness among school teachers in Raipur City, Chhattisgarh
Authors: Kashyap Diksha , Verma Nirmal , Gupta Shubhra A , Jaiswal Prashant Kumar
Published: April 2024

Background:

Women in India face a significant risk of high mortality rate from breast cancer, due to the delay in the diagnosis and the advanced stages of the disease at the time of diagnosis. Screening is among the best ways to detect cancer at an early stage, BSE is one of the most satisfactory ways due to it being non-invasive, easy, economically feasible, cost effective to screen for breast cancer. Teachers play an effective role in communication and motivation of young students.

Objectives:

To find out the prevalence of Breast self-examination among schoolteachers in Raipur city. 2. To find out awareness of Breast self- examination among schoolteachers in Raipur, C.G

Methodology:

Study Design- Cross-sectional observational study, Study Setting - Government Schools in Raipur city. Study Population- Female School Teachers. Study Tool- Self-administered Semi-structured questionnaire and specific health education module on breast self-examination and breast cancer.

Results:

The overall knowledge of breast self-examination in this population was rather very low. In our study we got to know that 83.33% of women were aware of breast cancer.

Conclusion:

Breast self-examination is associated with social stigma. Need of imparting awareness among females is important.
IJCM_59A: Knowledge and Practice regarding Biomedical Waste Management (BMW) among Paramedical Staff and Group IV Workers in tertiary care hospitals of Mangalore
Authors: Mitra Amartya , Gupta Namya , Upadhyay Ayushi , Singh Parul , Sharma Manav , Rekha T , Unnikrishnan Bhaskaran , Mithra Prasanna , Kumar Nithin , Holla Ramesh
Published: April 2024

Background:

Planning the waste management of all waste generated in healthcare facilities is a crucial task to reduce the hazards and risks to individuals and the community.

Objectives:

To assess the knowledge and practices regarding bio-medical waste management among paramedical staff and Group IV workers.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, 210 paramedical staff working at hospitals affiliated with Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore were assessed regarding their knowledge and practices regarding BMW. Institutional Ethics Committee permission was obtained before the commencement of the study. Data was analysed using IBM SPSS for Windows version 25.0, Armonk, New York, 25.0.

Results:

Among the total participants, there were 127 nurses, 6 lab technicians and 77 Group IV workers. 98.1% of healthcare providers were aware that their hospital has a waste management plan. 87.6% of healthcare providers follow hospital policies every time while disposing of waste. 92% of healthcare providers are aware of diseases transmitted by biomedical waste. The majority of the participants preferred using all five protective measures - gloves, goggles, masks, boots, and gowns while dealing with biomedical waste.

Conclusion:

The majority of the paramedical staff in our study were aware of the BMW management practices.
IJCM_6A: Prevalence of Malnutrition and its associated factors among elderly population in rural field practice area of Madras Medical College- A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Selvakumar R , Maheswari Uma R , Damodaran V
Published: April 2024

Background:

In India the elderly population (>60years) is on a raising trend has more than tripled in last 50 years and the projections for 2031 is 178.59 million of total population. As the health of the elderly will be an important issue defining the health of the whole population, hence elderly malnutrition is on focus.

Objectives:

To estimate the prevalence of malnutrition and factors associated with malnutrition among elderly population in rural field practice area of Madras Medical College.

Methodology:

This cross-sectional study was conducted from October to November-2023 among 480 elderly participants selected by simple random sampling in Medavakkam area. This study was done by using an interviewer administered semi-structured questionnaire that includes socio-demographic details and Mini Nutritional Assessment Questionnaire. Body Mass Index used to identify Obesity based on Asia Pacific BMI guidelines. Data was entered in MS-Excel and analysed using SPSS v16.

Results:

Among 480 participants,79.8% were in the age group of 60-70years,18.1% and 2.1% were in the age group of 71-80years and >80years respectively. Among them 53.1%were male. The prevalence of malnutrition and at risk of malnutrition were 7.7%(95%CI:5.5-10.5) and 39%(95%CI:34.6- 43.5) respectively which was assessed using MNA-questionnaire. Prevalence of obesity was 45.8%(95%CI:41.3-50.4) based on Asia-Pacific BMI guidelines. A significant association was found between malnutrition and older age groups, female gender, no formal education, kutcha house, widowed, unemployed and dependent financial status.

Conclusion:

According to this study, prevalence of malnutrition and at risk of malnutrition were lesser than previous studies done in rural South India, but the prevalence of Obesity found to be high (45.8%). Both undernutrition and over-nutrition are important health issues to be considered in elderly population. These problems can be solved through community level nutrition status screening of elderly and health education to the elderly and their families regarding balanced dietary practices and lifestyle modification, thereby enhancing their nutritional status and their quality of life.
IJCM_60A: Menstrual hygiene management practices in tribal areas of Mysore district: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Anila P , Khan Mudassir Azeez
Published: April 2024

Background:

Menstrual Health Management is defined as women and adolescent girls using a clean menstrual management material to absorb or collect blood that can be changed in privacy as often as necessary for the duration of menstruation period, using soap and water for washing the body as required and having access to facilities to dispose of menstrual management materials. Since considerable amount of tribal population belong to Mysore district it is important to study the practices among the most vulnerable population.

Objectives:

1. To estimate the knowledge on menstrual hygiene among the study population. 2. To measure the impact of socio-demographic and cultural determinants on menstrual hygiene management practices among the study population.

Methodology:

A community based cross-sectional study on menstruating women residing in tribal areas of Mysuru district was conducted from July to September 2023. Sample size was calculated using single proportion formula and it was estimated to be 130. All menstruating women/girls who were present during the time of visit were included in the study after getting their consent/ ascent. Multistage sampling was adopted to select the study participants. A validated semi-structured questionnaire was used for collection of data. Data was entered in MS Excel and analysed using SPSS v29 trial version.

Results:

99% of the study population knew that menstruation is a physiological process and poor menstrual hygiene causes urinary and reproductive tract infections. More than 80% of the study population have access to sanitary napkins for managing their menstrual cycles.

Conclusion:

Majority of the study participants are aware about menstruation as a physiological process and have access to sanitary napkins for management. But the disposal of sanitary waste and cultural barriers that persists in the society are still existing as a roadblock for improving reproductive health.
IJCM_63A: Knowledge and perceptions of menstruation among school going adolescent girls in urban area of Kakinada – A mixed method
Authors: Priyanka Eathalapaka , Madhavi B. Devi , Sapuri Rukmini Devi
Published: April 2024

Background:

Menstruation is a physiological process that all women go through. Menstrual Health and Hygiene (MHH) is essential to the well-being and empowerment of women and adolescent girls but appropriate MHH is hampered by taboos, secrecy and even stigma. The GOI/GOAP have launched several initiatives such as Health Education sessions in schools and celebration of menstrual hygiene week. Despite several initiatives, studies in India reveal that gaps exist in knowledge, perceptions and practices related to MHH

Objectives:

1. To Assess the Knowledge of Menstruation among adolescents. 2. To explore the Perceptions about menstruation among school going adolescents.

Methodology:

A Mixed Method Study was conducted among school going adolescent girls and the study Participants were selected by convenient sampling technique during October 2023. Qualitative data was collected from adolescents by conducting 2 Focus group discussions (FGD) with 20 adolescent girls in 2groups and Quantitative data collected by using Pretested Semi Structured questionnaire from 50 students who are in class 10th of P.R.G. Girls high school Kakinada, after obtaining subjects assent and informed consent from the Parents/guardians of the adolescents. Prior approval from Institutional ethics committee was taken. Data was entered and analysed using MS Word, MS Excel & SPSS 21.

Results:

88% have fair knowledge about menstruation. Mothers were the main source of information and advice regarding menstruation. FGDs revealed that the adolescents face stigma, embarrassment and hardships during menstruation both at school & home.

Conclusion:

Taboos, stigma and embarrassment and hindering the adolescents from appropriate MHM practices. Strategic approach towards menstruation would help to promote well - being of the adolescents.
IJCM_66A: Beliefs, perceptions, and practices of mothers of under-five children towards control of childhood anemia in selected urban and rural areas of Puducherry – An explanatory mixed methods study.
Authors: Sridevi  , Tamilselvan  , Jayalakshmy
Published: April 2024

Background:

Anaemia is a significant public health issue that affects different age groups, mainly children under five. A mother’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices are often associated with the health status of children

Objective:

The study aimed to assess mothers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards childhood anaemia control, the status of IFA consumption among under-five children in Puducherry, and explore socio-cultural beliefs and perceptions about childhood anaemia.

Methodology:

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in selected urban and rural areas, where Anganwadi centres were selected through simple random sampling. A pre-validated semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from mothers of children under five. In-depth interviews were conducted to explore socio-cultural beliefs and perceptions of childhood anaemia.

Results:

According to the study, the majority of participants were aware of the causes (89.5%) and symptoms (90.3%) of anaemia, as well as the consequences during pregnancy (80.7%) and child growth risks (72.3%). However, the knowledge of health risks to the child if the mother is anaemic during pregnancy was known to only 64.0% of mothers. While most participants were aware of iron-rich foods, the knowledge of the practice of providing these foods was less widespread. Additionally, only 28.4% of children receive adequate IFA supplements.

Conclusion:

Though knowledge, attitude, and practices have improved, they are still inadequate to reduce the anaemia burden. Only one in three children received adequate IFA supplements. Adherence to the correct dosage of IFA supplementation needs further awareness and emphasis.
IJCM_68A: Awareness and Practices towards Breast Self-Examination (BSE) for early detection of breast cancer among college-going students in Coastal Karnataka
Authors: Gupta Kanika , Mithra Prasanna , Rekha T , Unnikrishnan Bhaskaran , Kumar Nithin , Parween Rasla , Padmanabhan Ambika , Gupta Kush , Daanish Mohammed
Published: April 2024

Background:

Breast cancer is one of the leading cancers among women especially in developing countries and is amenable to complete cure if detected early. BSE is one of the screening techniques for early detection of breast lumps and early detection of breast cancer. This study was done to study the awareness, attitudes, and practices towards BSE among the study participants.

Methodology:

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 656 female students in pre-university and non-health degree colleges of Mangalore, belonging to the Science and Commerce streams selected using cluster random sampling. Data collection was done using a semi-structured questionnaire and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Results were expressed using tables and figures. The chi-square test was used for comparison across the groups, and p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

Among the 656 subjects,90%(n=570) belonged to age group of 18-20 years and 44.8%(n=287) were from science stream. Overall,41%(n=268) students were aware about the practice of BSE and a statistically significant association was seen with their stream. Also, 12%(n=78) performed BSE and out of them 69% (n=54) performed it at an ideal frequency. Among the students with a positive family history of breast cancer (4.5%), 92.3% felt the need for BSE education as compared to others.

Conclusion:

High number of young females (59.14%) did not have knowledge and those who performed BSE, followed incorrect techniques (94.7%). Most of them had a favourable attitude towards learning more about BSE.
IJCM_7A: Anxiety and Insomnia among the Medical students during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Mangalore
Authors: Smrithi GM , Ahuja Kriti , Hutton Veena , Padmakumar Megha , Beeravalli Manasa , Goyal Srishti , Sebastian Sheron , Kumar Nithin , Rekha T , Unnikrishnan Bhaskaran , Mithra Prasanna , Holla Ramesh
Published: April 2024

Background:

Interrupted classes which gradually shifted to online mode isolating students from their friends during the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the mental health status of the medical students.

Objective:

To assess the mental health outcomes among the health science students in Mangalore and the factors associated with these outcomes.

Methodology:

This cross-sectional study included 295 health science students of Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore. The sample size was calculated based on a study from Morocco, where 62.3% of the medical students experienced anxiety-related symptoms. Anxiety was assessed using the Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scale and Insomnia using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). The questionnaire was prepared in google forms and a link was generated which was disseminated to the students via social media platforms.

Results:

A higher proportion (n=179, 60.7%) of the participants in our study were females. In our study, 59% (n=173) of the participants had symptoms related to insomnia and 66% of the participants had anxiety-related symptoms.

A higher proportion of participants who had anxiety-related symptoms were younger than 20 years of age, were females, belonged to MBBS course, and were not living with their family. However, none of the factors were found to be statistically significant. (P>0.05)

Conclusion:

The mental health status of the participants in our study was poor with the majority of the participants reporting symptoms of anxiety and insomnia.
IJCM_73A: Knowledge, attitude, practice, and perception of women regarding breastfeeding- A mixed method study conducted in the tribal areas of Koraput, India.
Authors: Bhakta Madhumita , Panda Jasmin Nilima , Satapathy Durga Madhab
Published: April 2024

Background:

Breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure a child’s health and survival. Contrary to WHO recommendations, fewer than half of infants under 6 months old are exclusively breastfed. Although we know about breastfeeding practices in urban and rural populations, very little knowledge is available about breastfeeding practices and their correlates among the tribal population.

Objectives:

1. To assess the knowledge, attitude and practices prevailing among tribal women about breastfeeding 2. To explore the facilitators and barriers to infant breastfeeding practices amongst women in tribal areas.

Methodology:

Study design- Mixed method study. Study period- May, 2023 to July, 2023 Study population- tribal women of Koraput district. Study setting- villages in Koraput Inclusion criteria- 1. Women belonging to Scheduled Tribe communities. 2. Having at least one living issue. 3. Residing in their respective villages during the study period. Exclusion criteria- 1. Those who did not consent to the study. 2. Not residing in their respective villages. Sampling- Multistage sampling. Sample size- 500.

Results:

78.6% of mothers belong to the age group 21-30 years, 93.4% were literate whereas 6.6% were illeterate, 88% were housewives with 78.8% belonging from joint family. Majority of them had good knowledge regarding breastfeeding, though they lacked clarity on the concept of exclusive breastfeeding. Majority of their knowledge about breastfeeding was from relatives or neighbours and healthcare workers. having multiple children in quick succession serves as a major barrier to exclusive breastfeeding.

Conclusion:

The findings can form targeted interventions and policy initiatives to reduce the barriers and promote the facilitating factors for optimal breastfeeding practices within this unique cultural setting, ultimately contributing to improved maternal and child health outcomes.
IJCM_74A: Reproductive health problems and its determinants among the tribal women in Wayanad, Kerala; a cross sectional study.
Authors: Haseena KP , Joy Sarah , George Kelita , Joy Teena Mary
Published: April 2024

Background:

India has the largest proportion of tribal population, and there is a growing concern about the maternal and reproductive health of women, particularly those who are marginalized. In Kerala, the maternal and reproductive health indicators of tribal women exhibit notable variations compared to other social groups.

Objectives:

1) To estimate the prevalence of reproductive health problems among the tribal women in Wayanad district. 2)To assess the factors associated with reproductive health problems.

Methodology:

A convenience sampling method was employed to conduct a cross-sectional study involving 300 tribal women aged 15-49 in Kalpatta, Wayanad district. The study gathered information on sociodemographic factors, reproductive health issues, hygienic practices, and anthropometric details through a pretested semi-structured questionnaire. The collected data were entered into MS Excel, and the analysis was carried out using SPSS 21.0.

Results:

The mean age of the participants is 30.4±10.3 years. The prevalence of reporting any reproductive health issue is 16.3%, with 10.7% reporting two symptoms and 14.7% reporting three or more while 58.3% had no symptoms. The most common symptom is abnormal vaginal discharge with itching (57.1%). Among the participants, 64.5% are currently married, with 41.7% having low BMI, 55% use smokeless tobacco products,93.7% maintain good hygienic practices and 18.7% experienced pregnancy wastage. Occupation status and hygienic practices were found to be significantly associated with reproductive health problems.

Conclusion:

Adhering to appropriate hygiene practices in daily life, including menstruation, can minimize prevalent reproductive health issues among women in tribal communities.
IJCM_75A: Assessment of Perinatal Anxiety among Postpartum Mothers admitted in Tertiary Care Hospital, Raipur City (Chhattisgarh)
Authors: Soni Shikha , Gupta Shubhra Agrawal , Dhurandhar Tripti , Agrawal Shailendra
Published: April 2024

Background:

Maternal mental and emotional health plays an important role in child nutrition and health. About 10% of pregnant women and 13% of women who recently gave birth suffer from perinatal depression and anxiety. This can impair maternal functioning, cause distress, and may interrupt mother–infant bond formation.

Objectives:

1) To assess the Perinatal anxiety among postpartum mothers using PASS (Perinatal Anxiety Screening Scale).

Methodology:

This is a cross-sectional study conducted in postpartum mothers after 24 hr of delivery admitted in Tertiary Care Hospital, Raipur City (Chhattisgarh). After taking informed consent. consecutive sampling was applied for the collection of data and the sample size was 400. €¢ Perinatal anxiety-related questions asked by Perinatal anxiety screening scale which is a 4-point Likert scale (not at all/some times/often/almost always). This scale contains a total of 31 questions which are divided into 04 domains i.e. Excessive worry and specific fears, perfectionism, control and trauma, social anxiety, acute anxiety, and adjustment having 10, 08, 05, and 08 no. of questions in each domain respectively.

Results:

Only 14.5% of study subjects are asymptomatic while almost all ie 85.5% have varying grades of perinatal anxiety ranging from mild to moderate i.e.54.75%, and severe anxiety i.e. 30.75%.

Conclusion:

The new mothers are very much anxious about perfectionism, control, and trauma i.e. 91.5% have mild-moderate symptoms of anxiety severity for this domain.
IJCM_76A: Assessment of quality of life after normal vaginal delivery and caesarean section among mothers at a government tertiary care hospital, Bengaluru - A cross sectional study.
Authors: Mathew Anu Priya C , Jadhav Jyothi , Ranganath T S
Published: April 2024

Background:

Quality of life comprises multifaceted dimensions encompassing physical, emotional, social, and psychological aspects. Assessing quality of life is essential not only for mothers but also for their children, family members, and the community. Understanding the impact of different modes of delivery on women’s well-being is crucial for healthcare providers to offer appropriate support and interventions.

Objective:

To assess and compare the quality of life after normal vaginal delivery and caesarean section among mothers at a government tertiary care hospital, Bengaluru.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among mothers at a tertiary care hospital in Bengaluru. A pilot study was conducted and sample size was calculated as 200, with 100 participants in each group. Samples were selected using a simple random sampling method, and data were collected using a pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire. The Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) was used to assess the quality of life. The collected data was entered into MS Excel and analyzed using SPSS 21.0

Results:

Out of 200 participants, the mean age of the study population was 24.32 ± 5.58 years. Comparison between the vaginal and cesarean groups revealed that the vaginal birth group had higher mean scores in the physical health domain. Factors such as physical functioning, emotional well-being, socioeconomic status, and comorbidities were found to be significantly associated with modes of delivery.

Conclusion:

Different modes of delivery have their own unique challenges and benefits, this study illuminated distinct differences in quality of life. Normal vaginal delivery was associated with a quicker physical recuperation compared to caesarean section, while caesarean sections demanded a longer recovery period and potential physical limitations.
IJCM_77A: Predictors of fetal growth restriction in preterm birth
Authors: Ganesh  , Rao Suchetha S , Mithra Prasanna , Rai Santosh , Pai Keshava K , Shetty Shraddha K , Sauda  , Akshaya K M
Published: April 2024

Background:

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is defined as fetuses whose estimated fetal weight or abdominal circumference is below the 10th percentile for gestational age. As Africa and South Asia account for 60-85% of these births, it becomes important to study the predictive factors of fetal growth restriction in preterm birth.

Objective:

To study the socio-demographic and obstetrics factors as predictive factors of fetal growth restriction in preterm birth.

Methodology:

This was a case-control study. The sample size was 10 (four mothers with a preterm baby with fetal growth restriction and six mothers with a preterm baby without fetal growth restriction). Through a proforma the socio-demographic, obstetric, neonatal details, and ultrasound readings were collected. The results were summarized using mean and standard deviations.

Results:

The average gestational age was 32.5 weeks in cases and 32.7 weeks in controls. In this study, oligohydramnios (0.011) and history of abortion (0.011) were seen more in mothers with fgr in preterm birth compared to those in mothers with non-fgr in preterm birth babies.

Conclusion:

Oligohydramnios and history of abortion were the predictors of fetal growth restriction in preterm birth.
IJCM_79A: A cross sectional study to compare the emotional maturity between middle school children of working and non-working mothers.
Authors: Singh Caroline K , Abishek J
Published: April 2024

Background:

A child’s overall development is based on physical and emotional well-being. Parenting skills plays a vital role in child’s emotional well-being and can be influenced by many factors and one of the factors is mother’s working status.

Objectives:

1. To assess the emotional maturity level of middle school children. 2. To compare the emotional maturity levels between middle school children having working mothers and middle school children having non- working mothers.

Methodology:

An analytical cross-sectional study among middle school children between the age of 13 and 16 years was conducted in a school. A questionnaire-based interview was conducted using a standard semi structured Emotional maturity scale questionnaire.

Results:

The total students interviewed were 150 and were equally divided based on working status of mothers. Among them, 54.7% were boys and 45.3% were girls. 1.3% of the children of working mothers exhibited very low emotional maturity, but none of the children of non-working mothers did. Of the children of working mothers, 12% demonstrated low emotional maturity, compared to 8% of the children of non-working mothers. 78.7% of children whose mothers were working had an average level of emotional maturity, compared to 85.3% of children whose non-working mothers. 8% of the children of working mothers exhibited a high level of emotional maturity, compared to 6.7% of the children of non-working mothers. There was no significant difference between emotional maturity of children of working and non-working mothers (P=0.595).

Conclusion:

The study showed nil significant difference in emotional maturity score between children of working and non-working mothers. However, very low emotional maturity level was seen in Children of working mother which needs further importance. So, similar Future Studies with higher sample size will be needed to address this statistically and the concept of emotional maturity needs to be looked into with more preference to emotional maturity factors.
IJCM_8A: Prevalence of anemia among pregnant women in selected health blocks of Himachal Pradesh
Authors: Negi Ashwani , Gandhi Manoj K.
Published: April 2024

Background:

Anemia is a manifestation of under-nutrition and poor dietary intake of iron and is a public health problem in India. Iron deficiency is the primary cause of anemia among women in India with a prevalence reported in National Family Health Survey-4 as 54.4% among pregnant women and 52.2% among women of age 15-49 years in rural area.

Objectives:

To estimate the prevalence of anemia among pregnant women in selected health blocks of Himachal Pradesh.

Methodology:

It was a community based cross-sectional study where 09 health blocks from 07 districts were selected randomly using probability proportionate to size criteria for selection of blocks. Considering 50% prevalence, 5% error and 80% Confidence level, a sample size 164 was obtained and taking 10% dropout a total sample size of 180 was obtained. 20 pregnant women from each block were enrolled after written informed consent and screened for anemia.

Results:

A total of 180 women were enrolled for the study. The mean age of the study subjects was 26.3±4.13 years with mean age of marriage as 22.44±2.97 years. 102 (56.6%) subjects were primigravida. The prevalence of anemia observed was 29.4% and mean hemoglobin levels observed were 11.7±1.47 gm/dL.

Conclusion:

We estimated prevalence of anemia among pregnant women as 29.4% which is lower than that reported in India but still there are lacunas which are to be filled so as to further reduce its prevalence.
IJCM_82A: Behavioral and Functional Changes Due to Smartphone Over-usage among Under-five Children in Rural Puducherry- A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sheeba R. , Kannan K , Rajini  , Premnath D , Monisha V
Published: April 2024

Background:

Smartphone have revolutionized, and become an integral part of a child’s life. The child’s interaction with these modern devices needs to be assessed because it could have an enormous effect on their behavior, sleep habits, and psychological addiction.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to determine the pattern of exposure to smartphone, and the association between the exposure and behavioral, functional changes among under-five children in rural Puducherry

Methodology:

This community based cross-sectional study was done in the field practice area of a private medical college in Puducherry. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 340 eligible participants. A semi- structured questionnaire was used to assess the pattern of exposure, physical, social, and behavioral changes among study participants. The data were analyzed using SPSS software, and p-value of

Results:

Among 340 children, more than half of participants 180(52.9%) were female. Interestingly, around half of the study participants parents 181(53.2%) accepted that, their children were exposed to smartphone for entertainment purposes, and around one-tenth 35 (10.3%) of the participants viewed screen for more than the recommended screen time for age. Increased smartphone exposure was statistically associated with behavioral, and functional changes.

Conclusion:

Measures must be undertaken to prevent the deleterious behavioral and functional changes in under-five children due to excessive smartphone usage. Health education sessions and social behavioral change communication should be planned for the parents to protect the budding generation from the negative effects of smartphone usage.
IJCM_87A: Immunization status among children living in streets of Chennai - A cross sectional study
Authors: Ramalakshmi  , Sudharshini S
Published: April 2024

Background:

The homeless population of Chennai is the people who are living in the platforms, bus stands and other unused buildings in Chennai for more than three generations. Many of them lack basic amenities for their living, which makes them a vulnerable population especially the women and children. The children especially are prone to many communicable diseases as a result of their way of living

Objective:

To estimate the immunization status among the children of homeless population in Chennai.

Methodology:

The information about the clusters of homeless population is obtained from the Greater Chennai Corporation enumeration. Individual clusters are mapped in Zone 5 of Greater Chennai Corporation. Almost all the mothers of children of age up to 5 years are interviewed. Data collected using Epicollect5 data collection software.

Results:

The mean age of the children was 34.59 + 17.73 months. 45.4% were male children and 54.6% were female children.98.9% of the mothers registered their pregnancy and 100% delivered in the public facility. 93.4% registered their birth. 87.4 % of the children got enrolled in Anganwadis. 90.5% of the children were immunized up to age. Only one child (0.4%) didn’t get the birth dose of BCG. 18 children (6.6%) didn’t get their Measles Rubella vaccine not even once. 28 children (10.3%) didn’t get their second dose of Measles Rubella vaccine and Diptheria Pertussis Tetanus vaccine.

Conclusion:

The immunization coverage among homeless children upto 5 years is 90.5%. The coverage has to be strengthened in order to improve their quality of life
IJCM_88A: Perception of the medical college faculty on new competency-based medical education curriculum for MBBS students
Authors: Unnikrishnan Bhaskaran , Rathi Priya , Suneja Gayatri , Bullagan Arpit , Sehgal Anna , Singh Shrutika , Singh Prashant , Rekha T , Mithra Prasanna , Kumar Nithin , Holla Ramesh
Published: April 2024

Background:

Medical education needs to be adjusted to meet the fast- changing expectations of society and the resulting demands on daily medical practice. The Medical Council of India (MCI) has updated the Medical Curriculum based on CBME.

Objectives:

1. To assess the perceptions of the faculty members of the Medical college on the competency-based medical education curriculum for the MBBS course 2. To assess the readiness to incorporate competency-based medical education in the medical education curriculum among faculty members

Methodology:

This cross-sectional study was set in Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, among teaching staff of pre-clinical, para-clinical, and clinical departments. A total of 93 (pre-clinical-29, para-clinical-31, clinical=33) faculty members were requested to fill out the questionnaire.

Results:

Our study highlights inter-department coordination, time demands, and lack of faculty training as the major barriers to the implementation of CBME. Among all participants around 60% were females. Most of the participants had teaching experiences between 0-5 years. Almost 95% of the participants were aware of the new MCI 2019 curriculum. The majority of the participants rated their knowledge about CMBE as moderate level (38.7%). 61.3% of the faculty members consider themselves to be ready to incorporate CBМЕ. According to most faculty members, a moderate amount (50%) of training is required and sessions and workshops (68.8%) are the most preferred type of training.

Conclusion:

Most of the faculty members found that the CBME pattern will be effective in imparting skills to undergraduates. Most of the participants identified inter-department coordination, demands of time, and lack of training in evaluation and feedback to be the major barriers to implementing the CBME pattern. Most of the faculty members consider themselves to be ready for this change even though a lot of them find the implementation of CBME to be a difficult task.
IJCM_9A: Violence among pregnant women attending a secondary care maternity hospital, Ramnagara Taluk, Solur– A Cross-Sectional study.
Authors: Mathews Mary , Mary Merlyn Joseph Santha Sheela A , Paul Riya
Published: April 2024

Background:

According to NFHS 5 data, 3.1% of pregnant women in India suffer from domestic violence. Domestic violence in pregnant women can lead to unfavourable effect on physical, mental and emotional health of women, not only women, the growing fetus is also affected.

Objectives:

i) To assess the prevalence of violence among pregnant women in a private secondary level hospital in Solur, Ramnagara. ii) To assess the factors associated with violence among the study population.

Methodology:

All pregnant women of age group 18-40 years availing services at the out-patient department of the Snehalaya Hospital, Solur except those who were in labour or having serious medical emergency irrespective of gestational age were included in the study. Our sample size were 384 pregnant women in Solur. Study period were from November 2022 to February 2023 with the help of validated interview guide domestic violence among pregnant women has been assessed and data collected using Epicollect 5®. Chi-square test for association was done to identify associations, if any.

Results:

In the study, antenatal women who experienced violence were 146 out of 384 (38%). Of these, the distribution of cases were as follows: psychological violence – 114 (29.6%), physical violence – 19 (4.9%), sexual violence – 5 (1.3%) and economical violence – 75 (19.5%). Factors associated with violence were husband’s alcoholic addiction, higher age of pregnant women, higher education and unemployed pregnant women, multigravida and middle class family (Chi-square test, P< 0.05).

Conclusion:

In the study, 1/3rd of pregnant women were suffering from domestic violence. Early identification of domestic violence during the antenatal clinics and providing proper counseling to husband and family members regarding later consequences to mother and child due to violence can improve maternal and child health in future.