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Background: India has a high prevalence of micronutrient deficiency-related health risks, which can be improved by food fortification. Objectives: To identify and analyze single or multiple micronutrient (MMN) food-fortification studies for their efficacy and effectiveness in India. Methods: Papers from searching 10 databases were independently screened by two researchers. Data were abstracted to summarize food fortification results on biological markers, anthropometry, clinical, morbidity, cognition, dietary intake, and physical performance. Results: Forty-seven papers, of which 25 were randomized controlled trials, were included for analysis. Children ≤ 12 y were the main population (n=38). Food vehicles were cereals (n=6), oils and salts (n=18), and other (e.g., school meals (n=23)). Improvements in ≥ 1 biological markers were reported in all 35 papers (22 MMN, 9 Iron, 4 Iodine) with interpretable results. More specifically, iron or hemoglobin improvements were noted in all papers fortifying with MMN or solely iron. Iodine nutriture was improved in all salt iodization papers. Eight of 14, 6 of 7, 2 of 6, 4 of 6, 1 of 4, and 1 of 1 papers with interpretable results showed ≥ 1 positive result of fortification in anthropometry, clinical signs, morbidity, cognition, dietary intake, and physical performance, respectively. Conclusion: Research in India suggests food fortification improves biological markers, particularly iron and hemoglobin when fortifying with MMN or iron. MMN fortification saw more health impacts than using single fortificants. Iodine status was improved through salt iodization. Existing government nutrition programs, especially those that target children, are good avenues for food fortification implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Digitization of health records and health delivery processes in health care settings may have an impact on the Patient-Physician communication, wait times, that affect the overall patient satisfaction with the health care services. Aim & Objective: We ascertained the effect of digitization of medical case files on the doctor patient relationship (DPR) domain of patient satisfaction at an urban primary health center in India. Settings and Design: Comparative, cross-sectional study in primary health centres. Methods and Material: The patient satisfaction was compared between the patients attending the Public Health Dispensary (PHD) that uses digitized medical case file system and a Civil Dispensary (CD) which follows the conventional paper based medical records, using a Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire (PSQ). Statistical analysis used: Univariate analysis was done by chi-square test and adjusted analysis was done by multiple linear regression. Results: Patient satisfaction in DPR was found to be similar between the digitized medical case files based and conventional OPD (p=0.453). Significantly higher overall patient satisfaction was reported in the conventional paper based OPD than the digitized OPD (p<0.001). Conclusions: Patient satisfaction towards the doctor-patient relationship (DPR) was similar between paper based OPD and the digitized medical case files based OPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Data mining in healthcare is a nascent arena of research in healthcare. Heterogeneity of Diabetes Mellitus in terms of clinical presentation calls for newer methods of research to study potential risk factors. Aim: The paper aims to use clustering techniques to identify the relationship between the four variables, namely the pre-prandial and postprandial sugar level, age and sex. Methods: The data was taken from a diagnostic laboratory in Wagholi, Pune. We conducted K-mean algorithm, EM algorithm, model-based clustering and t-mixture model. Results: It is evidenced that the data was best fitted to the t-mixture model. Our 50% samples were people with diabetes, 17% had prediabetes. Trivial correlation existed between age and sugar level. Males and females were equally at risk of having diabetes. Data presented concludes that age and sex have no effect on the risk of having diabetes. Data mining can be used to deduce meaningful clusters to drive plan-based interventions in the population. Conclusion: Methods of data mining can be used to deduce meaningful clusters in a heterogeneous dataset thus providing policymakers and healthcare researchers with novel information that will potentially contribute in formulating evidence-based policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A decline in fertility rate and expansion in life span has resulted in the growth in the percentage of aged populations in the whole world. India and Odisha are no exceptions. Objectives: The objective of the present paper is to find out the incidence of functional ability/inability among the aged people of the rural areas of western Odisha of India. Materials and Methods: Katz Scale of ADL was used to assess the functional ability of elderly people. Six activities of daily living such as (Bathing, Dressing, Toilet, Mobility, Continence, and Feeding) were analyzed as per age and sex of the samples. Results: Of all the samples (1992), 98.5 percent are physically independent and only 1.4 percent are physically dependent. Out of 945 female elderly people, 931 (98.1%) are independent and out of 1047 male elderly people 1033 (98.6%) are independent. The physical dependency of females is more with a χ² -- value of 0.075 and p -- value of 0.466. The age group wise χ² -- value is 20.899 (3) and p -- value of 0.001. Conclusion: Lesser physical dependency is found among the elderly people in rural areas. An increase in dependency is seen with the increase in age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Contemporary society has led to the increasing use of electronic equipment that is very much responsible for the burden of electronic waste (e-waste). E-waste contains very hazardous substance that harms health and environmental conditions. There is no delicate mechanism for the management of e-waste in Lucknow city, Uttar Pradesh. This study assessed knowledge, practice, and awareness of e-waste management among residents of this city. Material and methods: The study was conducted amongst users of electronic equipment living in the Lucknow City of Uttar Pradesh. The study was a cross-sectional descriptive study. Multi-stage random sampling was done for the selection of participants for the study. A predesigned and pretested questionnaire was administered in a single setting for all phases. The total optimum sample size is 700 individuals who participated in the study. Data were entered in MS Excel 2016 and descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages were calculated, applying the chi-square test for association using R-4.2.1 Statistical software. Aim and objectives: To assess the knowledge, attitude and practices regarding the management of electronic waste among users of electronic equipment residing in Lucknow city. Results: Only 37% of users are aware that e-waste adversely affects health. Only 34.3% of users knew that e-waste should be given to the seller or manufacturer for recycling while rest told that it should be stored at home, sold to a scrap dealer, or disposed with normal waste. 87.3% users are not aware about e-waste govt guidelines. In the current study electronic and print media like television, radio and news paper were not found to be source of information for e-waste disposal. Conclusion: Education regarding the ill effects of e-waste is essential for people and awareness of proper disposal of e-waste is the need of the hour. Electronic and print media as well as companies producing electronic equipment should play a significant role to awaken the respondent about the disposal of e-waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years there is a rapid rise in coming out of sexual and gender minority adults to their family members and society. Unfortunately, studies on unmet health needs of transgenders with a special focus to mental health is under-researched in India. The current paper aimed to explore about the mental health of transgenders and a literature search was done using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases for the following medical subject headings (MeSH) key terms "transgendef', "mental Health", "social stigma", "LGBT", "gender dysphoria", "genderqueer", "intersex", "MSM", "hijra", "gay", "lesbian", "bisexual", and "homosexual". Transgender individuals were found to show high rates of mental health concerns. The most common mental health problems that we have shown in this review article are depression, obsessive-compulsive disorders, generalized anxiety disorders, suicidal attempts and bipolar disorders. Transgender people are at more risk for mental health problems than their heterogenous counterparts. The intervention program to eliminate or reduce these problems needs to be planned carefully, considering all the determinants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In this paper, we introduce geographical information systems (GIS) as a tool to study trends in disease spread in time and space. Based on data gathered by the integrated disease surveillance programme (IDSP), we can see where outbreaks of Chickenpox have occurred. Objective: The aim of this study is to assess the trends in chickenpox diseases in India between January 2015 and April 2021 using GIS maps. Methods: For the collection of secondary data relating to chickenpox, a free app called collect 5 was used for collecting data weekly from the IDSP website and then storing them in an online server. In this project, variables that needed to be processed with QGIS were combined with table attributes of many shapefiles of India and presented as maps. Results: Between Jan 2015 and May 2021, 1269 chickenpox outbreaks (27,257 cases) have been recorded. Thirty-one deaths have been confirmed, with most occurring in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Nineteen states did not report any deaths. According to the seasonally adjusted trend, the number of cases was highest during the months of January and March. Conclusion: In summary, geographic information systems have become an invaluable tool for mapping the hotspots of acute epidemics and planning public health interventions to prevent the spread of these diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mental Health is an emerging problem in the world, particularly in the developing countries like India, which is a big challenge for the sustainable human development. Health is a vital requirement for sustainable human development, and there can be no health without mental health. The role of mental health is very important in accomplishing social inclusion and equity. It also plays a vital role in acquiring Universal Health Coverage (UHC), access to justice and human rights, and sustainable economic development. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health is not only the absence of disease but it implicates the physical, social, spiritual and mental health. (1) Since primordial eras, India, has emphasized on the health of its citizens and has underlined the need for a physically and mentally healthy society. In the new SDGs, the UN has lastly demarcated that mental health is one of the most universal development precedence, and set the scene for an ambitious plan to tackle the world's challenges in the coming 15 years. WHO has also projected two indicators to strengthen mental health in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are fully aligned with the WHO Global Mental Health Action plan, both within the health goal: suicide rate; and service coverage (proportion treated) of persons with severe mental illness.(2) Aims & Objectives The main thrust of this paper was to explore the frequency and pattern of mental disorder and its impact on families or household. This paper also analyzed the mental morbidity rate and its cause in India. Material & Methods: Paper is based on secondary data. Results: The findings demonstrated that 13.7 per cent of India's general population has various mental disorders; 10.6 per cent of them need instant mediations. Whereas, almost 10 per cent of the population has common mental disorders, 1.9 per cent of the masses suffer from severe mental disorders. The result shows that the frequency of schizophrenia is more in urban metros then rural counterparts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Road traffic accidents (RTAs) have emerged as a major public health concern due to the growing number of motorized vehicles all over the world. In India, the burden of road traffic accidents is increasing and from 1991 to 2011, the number of fatal deaths has more than doubled. Madurai district is among road accident-prone regions of the state of Tamil Nadu. Objective: This paper aims to examine and understand trends and patterns of RTAs in rural areas of Madurai District between 2014-2018. Methods: The researchers collected RTAs data from Madurai District Crime Records Bureau. we have considered time-series data from 2014 to 2018 and the number and percentage of deaths by the distribution of relevant factors such as timing, gender, road type, and vehicles to understand holistic patterns of RTAs. Results: Totally 9950 road accidents were reported by Madurai District Crime Records Bureau between 2014 and 2018 and on an average over 1990 accidents have occurred every year. Nearly 40 per cent fatal accidents occurred between 15-21 h. Men were the victims in 87 per cent of deaths and men died 6.8 times higher than females during 2014-2018. Over 57 per cent of fatalities have occurred in National Highways. The proportion of two-wheelers contributed to road deaths is 28 per cent and two-wheelers caused maximum road deaths than other vehicles. Conclusion: The study shows a decreasing trend in road accidents and fatalities in Madurai district. However, a significant number of men dying in road accidents highlights the difficulties of their families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To improve coverage of key child health community practices, Home Based Infant Care (HBNC+) was implemented with support of Norway India Partnership Initiative (NIPI) in 4 States of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Odisha. The innovation aimed at improving coverage of key child health interventions through home visits by community health worker, Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA). Aims & Objective: This paper elucidates the results from the assessment of implementation in intervention versus control districts of Rajasthan. Material & Methods: A cross-sectional intervention-control design with a sample size of 3211 mothers of children in age group 0 to 23 months was adopted. Results: 85 percent of the children (aged 3-23 months) received at least one infant care home visit in the intervention districts in comparison to 32 percent in control. Significant improvements were found in terms of exclusive breastfeeding, weighing and Iron Folic Acid (IFA) consumption and availability of ORS and Iron Syrup in intervention districts. 15 percent additional children had weight plotted in growth charts and 24 percent more consumed IFA syrup bi-weekly in intervention districts. Conclusion: Home visits in infancy is a scalable model and can lead to improvement of community child health practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: "Imposter syndrome" or "Imposter Phenomenon" is not a mental disorder but is considered as a psychological pattern in which people doubt their accomplishments and is associated with certain poor psychological functioning like low self-esteem can be detrimental to medical students. Objective: To find out the prevalence of Imposter phenomenon as well as it association with self-esteem among the final year medical students. Methods: A cross sectional study was carried-out among 249 medical students of a private medical college in the U.T of Puducherry using Clance Imposter Phenomenon scale. Results: 58.2% and 41.8% of the participants were in Part-1 and part-2 of final year respectively. It was observed that every participant had some degree of Imposter phenomenon. Low self -esteem, was found among 12.85% of the study participants. In this study there was no association between the low self-esteem and Imposter Syndrome. Conclusion: It is very clear that the burden of Imposter syndrome is quite high among the medical students as the reasons are varied. Extensive research to elaborate these is the need of the hour, as this information helps in designing the preventive measures for the students who are the future of the nation and the foundation stones of progress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Medical colleges promote research by incorporating it into the curriculum, which enables students to acknowledge it as a career prospect. The aim of the study was to assess the perceptions of medical students on research curriculum. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 544 medical students (interns and post-graduates) at AIIMS Rishikesh in 2020. Data was collected thorough online self-administered questionnaire. A comparison between groups was made using the Mann-Whitney test or chi-square test p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Out of 544 participants, 218 (40.1%) responded with complete data. The total median score for the self-perceived ability of study participants regarding performing the research tasks differed significantly between interns and post-graduates [29.5 (24.0--34.2) vs 33 (25.2--39.7), p = 0.03]. They suggested that mandatory research projects, workshops, and training should be included in the curriculum. Conclusion: Feedback from medical students regarding the need for guided research projects, hands-on training, and inclusion of research methodology as a course in UG curriculum and provision of support in the form of incentives, academic credits, and motivation are well noted and guide the resource faculties to modify their teaching and student support programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Textile sector in India plays an important role in the country's economy, providing employment to a significant population in rural and urban areas. Objectives: This paper focuses on health and safety aspects of textile workers in Solapur City (one of the key textile cluster) in the state of Maharashtra, India. Methodology: A sample of 180 workers from the identified textile industries of Solapur city were assessed for their general physique, muscle tone, lung condition, and eyesight using different techniques. The study aimed at developing a framework for understanding risks to textile workers resulting from lack of health and safety standards in companies. Results: Findings showed that most of the workers have been affected by respiratory problems, increase in muscle tone, eye problems and musculoskeletal problem. It has been also observed that job security or regular work impacts positively to the worker's long term body health. However, there is an immediate need to adopt and implement measures in accordance with Indian Factories Act (OHSAS 18001/ILO-OSH 2001) which includes directions and procedures in respect of industrial installations, work environment and occupational health and safety guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: About 29-60% of tribal children are underweight due to limited healthcare access. The Kols, a tribe in central India, face similar issues and our study will examine their complementary feeding practices. Methodology: A sequential explanatory mixed-method research design was conducted on 218 Kol tribe women in the Manikpur block of Chitrakoot district Uttar Pradesh. In the first phase, the quantitative interview using a semi-structured questionnaire and in the second phase, an in-depth interview of 20 Kol mothers was conducted using an interview guide. Results: About 52.3% of the women were aged between 26- 35 years, and about 83.9% were illiterate. About half of the children (n=116, 53.5%) were introduced to complementary feed at 6-8 months of age. The independent predictors of the timely initiation of complementary feeding were education (AOR: 2.422, p 0.037), age of the mothers (AOR: 1.2106, p 0.047) and the number of children of the mothers (AOR: 2.715 p 0.004) diet diversity was rarely maintained. Conclusion: Complementary feed was introduced timely for half of the tribal women but diet diversity was not maintained. Health education and counselling to utilize locally available food items should be encouraged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The rolling out of the COVID -19 vaccination programme was accompanied by several doubts including the safety and occurrence of adverse effects after the vaccination. Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted amongst the health care professionals working in the state of Himachal Pradesh to assess the frequency and types of side effects associated with the administration of Covid-19 vaccines using a semi structured questionnaire floated through a Google form. Result: Of the 187 responses received, after the 1st dose, 37.5% participants reported malaise, 31% myalgia, 36.4% low-grade fever, while 18.5% high-grade fever. Mild reactions at the injection site were reported by 37.5%, headache was reported by 3%, low back ache, drowsiness, giddiness and diarrhea were reported by about 3%. No reactions were reported by 18.5% of the participants. After the second dose, 51.8% did not report any adverse event, 17.1% reported malaise,15.2% reported low grade fever, 3% reported high grade fever, 20.1% reported mild reactions at the site of injection while 4.2% reported drowsiness, breathlessness on exertion, nausea, low back ache and diarrhea. Conclusion: The frequency of adverse events with COVID -19 vaccines is not higher than those observed with other commonly used vaccines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A good work life balance is essential for the employees of any organization because it emphasize on balancing the personal and professional life. However there is scarcity of studies focusing work-life balance of defense force employees in India. Aims & Objectives: The present study explores the Work-Life Balance and Occupational Stress of the Non-Gazetted Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Jawans. The main objective behind conducting this study is to investigate the relationship between Work Life Balance and Occupational Stress among the Non-Gazetted CRPF Jawans. Methods: The present study is a quantitative cross-sectional study based on data collected from 354 non-gazetted officers of 148th battalion in Chandauli, Uttar Pradesh, India. Data was collected from after receiving written consent from the respondents. A semi-structured questionnaire was designed to collect the data which included questions related to socio-demographic characteristics, 13 self-developed questions related to work life balance and 46 items Occupational Stress scale developed by Srivastava & Singh. Result: Most of the CRPF Jawans had moderate occupational stress and high work-life balance. The study found moderate negative correlation between Work Life Balance score and Occupational Stress score among the non-gazetted CRPF Jawans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Pre-hypertension is a borderline health state of increased blood pressure (BP) that falls short of the measurable parameters at which surveillance and/or therapy would be required. The approach of identifying people "At Risk" of developing hypertension can be more cost-effective and feasible for applying lifestyle interventions. Objectives: The objective of the present study is to find the prevalence of pre-hypertensives and associated bio-socio-demographic factors Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1946 participants aged 19 years and more in the Doiwala block of Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Multistage sampling was used to arrive at desired sample size. A pre-validated, structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The questionnaire included information on the socio-demographic profile (age, sex, education etc.), awareness about hypertension and its associated risk factors. Statistical Analysis: The chi-square test was used to compare proportions and draw inferences. Results: 958 (49.2%) study participants out of a total 1946 were found to be pre-hypertensives. A statistically significant association was found between pre-hypertension and factors such as male gender, age, education, occupation and waist-hip ratio. (p<0.05) Conclusion: It is recommended that identification on the pre-hypertensive group and subjecting them to lifestyle modification could be a fruitful strategy for preventing them from becoming hypertensive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A deficient data is among the biggest obstacle facing planners and policy makers. Health data collection in the developing world is often hampered by the high costs and inefficiencies of traditional large-scale paper-based surveys. mHealth using Epi-Info is most appropriate tool to create, share, deploy health surveys and for strengthening of health systems. The program runs on free and open software, is easy to use, and can be downloaded to handheld devices to be used by workers in the field. Objectives: To find out the usefulness and limitations of data collection for mHealth by use of Epi Info™ software. Material and Methods: The devices used Epi Info 7.1.5 (Android version), which has been modeled as a database with variables of the traditional form. A cross sectional survey among adolescents regarding their health needs was carried out in a sample of 200 adolescents (purposive sampling) of rural hilly (Jaunpur block of Tehri Garhwal district) and plain (Doiwala block of Dehradun district) areas of Uttarakhand by the use of Android tablets with Epi Info™. Results: It was found that adolescent questionnaire tool developed in Epi Info™ android tablet application is a powerful tool for data collection having numerable practical advantages like: Interview Time Tracking (ITT) that gives the reality check in field studies along with cases Geographical presentation by GIS mapping. In addition to this complete filling of data in field so no left over or guessing for data entry operator, paperless, bio-friendly. Despite of Tablet cost, it is cost effective as tablet can be repeatedly used for other surveys. Conclusions: Epi Info™ is a developing open access software for primary data collection and analyzing data from the field, with advantageous benefits of epidemiological surveys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In April and May 2021, India faced massive second wave of COVID-19 pandemic and then became the hotspots of mucormycosis across globe. Hence, we planned the first analysis of mucormycosis in Uttar Pradesh. Aim and Objectives: co The objectives were to explore the epidemiology, vaccination status, clinical features, microbiological findings, treatment of mucormycosis and outcome. Material and Methods: This was an observational study of mucormycosis at tertiary care centre of Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India from 20 May 2021 to 15 July 2021. Results: 98 patients' data with mucormycosis was analyzed. Patients had median age of 55 years. COVID-19 infection was present in 69.4% of participants and diabetes mellitus was present as underlying co-morbid condition in more than 85% of patients. 91.8 % of cases were unvaccinated with steroid consumption in almost 60% of patients. R. arrhizus was among the most common agent while we found less commonly reported fungi like R.homothallicus, Apophysomyces, Cunninghamella. 41.8% of cases were successfully treated and 16.3% of cases expired. Conclusion: Diabetes mellitus was labeled as major predisposing factor and most patients were unvaccinated. Awareness about fungal infections, rigorous monitoring of chronic diseases, judicious use of drugs, early diagnosis and prompt treatment is decisive for better outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Knowledge, attitude, and practice of the community can determine progress from localized to community transmission of COVID-19 in India. Aims and Objectives: To assess the knowledge, attitude and practice levels of the general population during the early phase of COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: A rapid cross-sectional survey was conducted among hospital visitors of a lead tertiary care hospital. Realtime data collection from 223 respondents was done and analyzed using Stata 12.1 SE. Results: Mean age was 38.2 ±13.5 years, 68.2% were males, mean education was 12.1 ± 3.7 years and 45.3% were gainfully employed. Almost all had heard about CORONA (221, 99.1%). Adequate knowledge was present on: a) mode of spread (48.0%); b) preventive measures (70.9%). Television (77.1%), social media (60.5%) and WhatsApp (44.0%) were sources of information. Positive attitude was seen for: a) wearing a mask (83.9%); b) health-seeking (85%) on presenting with symptoms; c) Self-isolation or home-quarantine (20%). Adequate knowledge towards the mode of spread, symptoms and control measures or positive attitudes for health-seeking were found to positively translate into correct practices (p≤0.001). Conclusion: Attitudes and practices of social distancing, self-isolation or home-quarantine were not adequate to prevent the epidemic progress in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background-India is experiencing a rapid health transition, with large and rising burdens of chronic diseases, which were estimated to account for 53% of all deaths in 2005. Earlier estimates projected that the number of deaths attributable to chronic diseases would rise from 3.78 million in 1990 (40.4% of all deaths) to 7.63 million in 2020 (66.7% of all deaths). Aims and Objectives-To find out the prevalence of Complications of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and its association with different risk factors in Urban Etawah (U.P.) including tobacco, alcohol, fatty meals and physical activity. Material and Methods-The present study is a community-based study performed among 400 participants using cluster sampling technique in the field practice area of Urban health training centre, Department of Community Medicine, UPUMS, Saifai, Etawah. The participants were interviewed using a pre-tested questionnaire using Diabetes Complication Index. Results-Among the diabetics, the prevalence of coronary heart disease (CHD), peripheral vascular disease (PVD), cerebrovascular accidents (CVA), cataract, neuropathy and foot problems were 24%, 24%, 7%, 15.4%, 38%, 26% and 2% respectively. A statistically significant association was seen with fatty meals and complications. Conclusion - All the diabetic complications observed need to be addressed in prevention and control strategies in the study area. Heath screening camps will be organized for the people for awareness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background-Male preference is deeply entrenched in the society. Gender disadvantage predisposes to limited education, employment opportunities and healthcare. Aims and objectives: To assess the Gender disadvantage in rural married females and its impact on their psychological morbidity. Methodology: Analytical Cross sectional study was conducted in a randomly selected village of a rural health block. All the eligible women were interviewed using Door Knock Procedure. Psychological morbidity was assessed using 20 items Self Rating Questionnaire (SRQ-20). Statistical Analysis: Data was analysed using SPSS ver 20.0. Tests of significance applied were Chi square test and ANOVA. P value of <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: Prevalence of Female gender disadvantage was 59.89%. Parental male predisposition and socioeconomic status were found to be statistically associated (p<0.05). The women's own preference for a male child was strongly predicted by their own gender disadvantage from the parents. Statistically significant difference in psychological morbidity was found amongst women who had both parental male predisposition and lack of empowerment in comparison to those who did not have these (p=0.00). Conclusion: Psychological morbidity due to gender disadvantage is a cause of concern. Social awareness and strongly enforced laws like PC-PNDT can reduce these preferences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Any public health program's efficacy may be evaluated solely based on the available statistics. A program's ability to be tracked relies heavily on data. There are several systems in place in India for gathering data on the health of individual states and the country as a whole. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS) is one of these mechanisms. Children's vaccination status is one of the many data points collected by the National Health Interview Study (NFIS), a representative sample survey. NFHS is commonly used to evaluate and monitor the progress of any health program in the country, therefore, to sum it up: According to Rajasthan's NFHS-4 and NFHS-5 reports, there has been a significant increase in the state's coverage status. Despite the difficulties and the closure of the corona, this research will investigate the data that has demonstrated extraordinary rises and the causes that have made it possible or the huge efforts by the state government. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Karnataka, more so Bangalore, reported an increase in number of COVID-19 cases in early April 2021. Objective: To assess the burden of COVID-19 in the slums of Bengaluru city. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional multi centre community-based study was done in the 2nd and 3rd week of April 2021 in 24 different slums in Bangalore city. WHO cluster random sampling technique was followed. Swabs for RTPCR test and 4 ml of venous blood was collected from 728 subjects more than 18 years of age. Results: A total of 51 (7%) subjects were positive for COVID-19 through RT-PCR. Majority 33 (56.9%) were in the age group of 18-44 years. 148 (20.3%) subjects were sero-positive on blood examination and 18-44 years was the (59.4%) preponderant age group. Overall seropositivity was 20.3% (95%CI; 17.4-23.2) and RT-PCR positivity is 7% (95%CI; 5.2-8.8%) among the subjects surveyed. In the inner core area of Bangalore, seropositivity was 24.2% (95%CI; 21.0 -- 27.3) and RT-PCR positivity was 8% (95%CI; 6.1-9.9). Two doses of COVID-19 vaccine were taken only by 1.55% subjects during the study period. Conclusion: The study showed that one in 5 subjects were sero-positive to SARS-CoV-2 and one in 15 individuals had active COVID-19 infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Health care workers (HCWs) are more likely to be at high risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection due to their direct and/or indirect participation in treatment facilities. Here, we aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practices of ivermectin pre-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) in HCWs. Materials and Methods: In this observational study HCWs who were directly/indirectly involved in the medication of COVID-19 patients were selected. The study questionnaire included demographic data; knowledge, attitudes, practices, and associated adverse drug reactions (ADR) after using ivermectin as pre-exposure prophylaxis in COVID-19. Results: The mean age of the selected 306 participants was 34.41 {±standard deviation 4.08}. 66.66% of the participants were men. 15.69% of individuals had co-morbidities. HCWs were about COVID-19, and 94.12% of people know the role of ivermectin as PEP. Additionally, 180 participants (58.82%) realized that ivermectin can cause adverse drug reactions (ADRs). 70.59% of the study-participants admitted that ivermectin has a protective effect on COVID-19, while 62.75% of the participants believed that the PEP benefits of using ivermectin outweigh the risks. 57.37% (n = 210) of HCW used ivermectin and completed the recommended medication process. Eighteen participants (8.57%) experienced adverse reactions and reported to the ADR monitoring center. Conclusion: 70.59% of the studied participants agreed that ivermectin has a protective effect on COVID-19, and 57.37% of the participants have taken ivermectin as PEP. However, 8.57% of the individuals reported ADR, but none of the participants were severe enough to discontinue the drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Among few of the recreational activities of students are sports and watching cinema. Movies are found to be powerful instruments in influencing the attitudinal changes, emotional impact, education, life styles, health and other behaviours. Objectives 1. Choice of cinema among medical students 2. Perceived effects of watching cinema on study participants. Methods- This was a cross sectional study carried out among undergraduate medical students. Sample size: 153. Result: Age of the participants ranged from 18-29 years averaging 21.43 years. Hollywood movies were the most commonly watched by 113 (73.9%) followed by Hollywood movies watched by 104 (68%) study participants.77 (50.3%) participants believed that movies showing sexual violence against females badly affect the psyche of females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Immediately after the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic, with an unprecedented cooperation between biomedical, pharmaceutical, technological, and political sectors, new vaccines were developed and approved in record times. However, doubts were raised on their efficacy and adverse effects. Globally, it was agreed that the first recipients for vaccines would be the health care workers (HCWs). Logically, it was bound to raise some concerns and result in hesitancy among the HCWs. Aims: The current study was planned to study the proportion of HCWs having hesitancy towards COVID-19 vaccination and factors effecting it. Settings and Design: Cross-sectional study conducted among HCWs of Uttar Pradesh. Methods and Material: The survey was conducted both in online and offline mode and attempted by 254 HCWs eligible for receiving COVID-19 vaccine. Statistical analysis used: t-test, chi-square test, proportion, mean, SD Results: Vaccine hesitancy was present in 35.8% HCWs. Only social factors like caste (p=0.023) and religion (p<0.001) were found to be significantly associated with vaccine hesitancy. Gender, type of health worker, fear of COVID-19 infection, fear of lethality or pre-existing diseases did not affect vaccine hesitancy. The maximum number of HCWs (71.4%) were hesitant because they were unsure of the side-effects followed by the reason of being unsure about its effect on their own health (53.8%). When asked about their attitude towards compulsory COVID-19 vaccination for HCWs, should it be made mandatory by the government, 42.9% were in favour and 40.6% were against any such mandate. Conclusions: The study concluded that social factors like religion and caste are more deterministic for vaccine hesitancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Geriatric population is a very vulnerable group, potentially can suffer many kinds of illnesses "ALL AT ONCE". There is a need for proper planning to tackle the social, financial, psychological and physical problems encountered during old age. In India, proportion of old age population is estimated to rise up to 19% by 2050. [1] Objectives: To study the socio demographic and health profile, morbidity prevalence and patterns of various diseases seen in the geriatric age group. To assess the health seeking behavior and the demand for healthcare services in geriatric population. Methodology: This is an epidemiological community based cross-sectional descriptive study on 240 participants aged 60 years and above. Study subjects were interviewed using a questionnaire followed by taking thorough health and morbidity history. General physical examination and Systemic examination was done. Morbidity pattern was analyzed and associations with various determinants were derived. Results: Out of the total 240 subjects, 208 (86.67%) had at least one morbidity and 32 (13.33%) of them dint have any. Association of different parameters with presence or absence of "presenting symptoms, morbidity and multi system morbidity" was analyzed. Variables significantly positive (P <0.25) in univariate analysis were included in multivariate analysis and binary logistic regression model was applied. Lack of sleep, reduced appetite, nutritional deficiency, low literacy, reduced physical activity and history of addictions all have significant association (P <0.05) with either physical symptoms or systemic morbidity. Conclusion: These risk factors worsen the natural aging process and hamper the process of healthy ageing. Measures must be taken to reduce these modifiable risk factors at younger age in order to prevent multi-factorial causation of chronic diseases in old age as we're heading towards a demographic shift soon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Phytic acid chelate minerals, including Fe and Zn and render them inaccessible once ingested by human beings. The evaluation of differences in the dialyzability of macronutrients including Fe and Zn in various wheat derivatives is therefore important for the enhancement of nutritional quality of grains. Objectives: The objective of current study was to improve the micronutrient content in wheat grain. Methods: During germination (12, 24, 48, 72, 96 h), effects of gibberellins and ascorbic acid on phytic acid content as well as dialyzability of iron and zinc of wheat derivatives were determined. Results: The phytic acid content in wheat flour was determined and it was found 7.61 to 7.48 mg/g. After the treatment with gibberellins, it was significantly reduced from 8.68 to 21.6 % and 9.65 to 20.9 % with ascorbic acid. In wheat flour dialyzabilty of Fe was 4.53 to 8.97 mg/kg. After germination, Fe content was increased from 9.77 to 32.0 % with gibberellin, and 13.9 to 31.0 % with ascorbic acid. Moreover, with gibberellins, Zn content was increased from 8.68 to 21.6 % and 9.65 to 20.9 % with ascorbic acid, respectively. Conclusion: These results suggested that gibberellins as well as ascorbic acid can be exploited to improve the dialyzability of iron and zinc content due to reduced antinutrient i. e phytic acid and make the minerals available for the absorption in monogastric animals including human beings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is increasing concern of ambient air pollution as a global threat to humans. The most prominent effect of air pollution is on lung function. The air pollution causes decline in lung function amongst high exposure populations. There are some most vulnerable groups who are chronically exposed to ambient air pollution like traffic policemen, roadside hawkers, Banjara community in India, E-Rickshaw drivers etc. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in East Delhi, India. Spirometry was done for roadside hawkers having high exposure to ambient Air pollution and working daily for 6-8 hours for the last more than 3 years. The low exposure group was taken from personnel working inside offices. The spirometry parameters of both the groups were compared. Student 'T' test was applied for statistical analysis with the help of SPSS software. Results: Comparison of FVC, FEV1 and FEV1/FVC ratio among two groups revealed lower values for the high exposure group which was statistically significant. Among high exposure group the mixed pattern of ventilation defect was observed. Among low exposure group normal pattern of lung function was observed. Conclusion: Roadside hawkers are a vulnerable group to ambient air pollution resulting in their lower values of lung function parameters with resultant mixed ventilator defect and consequently high risk for development of respiratory diseases in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Laboratory workers are at increased risk of occupational hazards especially microbial infections. These occupational hazards can be reduced by merely creating awareness related to Biosafety. Thus biosafety and waste management training is important and needs to be inculcated at novice stage. Aims: The present study aimed to assess the effect of one-day training program on knowledge related to biosafety and biohazard among life-science students. Settings and Design: The study was conducted through online medium, organized by Department of Microbiology, Institute of Home Economics, University of Delhi using a Quasi Experimental design. Methods and Material: A one-day training on Biosafety and Waste Management was organized by Department of Microbiology for life-science students. A pre-test with 15 questions was administered to the participants before commencement of the training. One mark was allotted for each correct response and zero marks for incorrect marks. At the end of training, post knowledge was assessed using the same questions as pre-test. Statistical analysis used: The data on pre-post knowledge assessment was analyzed using SPSS Version 21. Paired t-test was used to assess the mean difference in pre and post knowledge assessment amongst the participants. The level of significance was taken as <0.05. Results: A total of 81 participants was analyzed for pre-post analysis. The mean age was 19.98 ± 1.06 years with 59(72.8%) being females. The mean pre-knowledge and post-knowledge score was found to be 10.20 ± 2.09 and 14.02 ± 1.63 respectively. The mean difference of 3.83 ± 2.23 in pre and post knowledge was found to be significant (p<0.001). Conclusions: Life-science students have poor-to-moderate knowledge about biosafety and waste management. Training on biosafety helps in improving knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Globally, diarrhoeal diseases are the second leading cause of death among under 5 children and India alone accounts for 100,000 lives annually, third highest in the world. In low and middle-income countries, contaminated water has been the major source of diarrhoeal diseases and lack of improper WaSH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) practices accounts for 90% of the total death. Aims and Objective: To find out the burden of diarrhoea and its relation to WASH practices among children and mothers/care givers and Presumptive Coliform count of drinking water. Materials and Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study conducted in Resettlement colony, Delhi. A total of 553 under 5 children were studied after attaining consent from mothers/care givers. MPN count per 100 ml was measured from drinking water storage vessel. Result: Prevalence of diarrhoea was found to be 40.70%, being higher among children aged between 13-24 months (57.3%). Out of the total water samples, 37% of samples were unsatisfactory, 36% suspicious and 22% satisfactory. None of the samples were found to be satisfactory. Lack of WaSH practices was observed among mother/care givers. Conclusion: Understanding the factors influencing the occurrence of diarrhoeal diseases and drinking water quality will help reduce the burden of diarrhoeal diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Swachh Bharat Swachh Vidyalaya (SBSV) campaign was launched to improve the health and hygiene status in schools of India, giving children a better opportunity to perform well overall. Objective: To assess the environment and sanitation status in select government schools as per Swachh Bharat Swachh Vidyalaya campaign guidelines. Methodology: This descriptive study included 95 schools from Mangalore. The data abstraction tool was formulated using the SBSV campaign guidelines. Results: The findings of this study showed that most schools (88%) had gender segregated toilets and 93.8% schools had regular sanitary napkins supply although 57.5% of them did not have any appropriate provision for their disposal. There were no arrangements for solid waste disposal in 59% of the schools. Majority of the schools (96.8%) provided clean water for drinking. Conclusion: The study findings have implications in few key areas ensuring adherence to the campaign guidelines and promote health of the children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The present study was designed with the objective to study the prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms among adolescents and to explore the association of these disorders with Body Mass Index. Settings and Design: School setting and Cross-Sectional study design. Participants: 546 adolescents, aged 13-15 years, studying in public schools (n=5) in Delhi (Purposive sampling). Methods and Material: Anthropometric measurements: Height of the subjects was measured using a stadiometer in cm (to nearest 0.5cm). Weight was assessed using TANITA's Body Fat Monitor (UM-076). After gathering height and weight data, BMI (kg/m2) Z scores were calculated and classified into four categories: Underweight, Normal weight, Overweight and Obesity based on WHO's growth standards for BMI for age cutoffs. Mental Health Assessment: For this purpose, we used the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) for ages 6-18 years; parent report version. Results: A V shaped curve (trend) was observed between the association of depression and anxiety scores in four BMI categories; with majority of the malnourished adolescents having higher scores for depression and anxiety symptoms. It was interesting to note that any deviation from normal weight, either underweight or overweight/obese was significantly associated with depression (p = <0.001) and anxiety (p = <0.001) scores. Conclusions: The study emphasizes the association between body weight and depression and anxiety symptoms among adolescents studying in public schools of Delhi. It adds to the growing body of research in the area of nutritional psychiatry which needs to be promoted for the prevention and management of these disorders through a healthy diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Maternal mortality and morbidity continues to remain high in India, despite the existence of successive national programs for improving maternal and child health since the 1980s. In 2005, the Government of India launched the National Rural Health Mission to provide accessible, affordable and quality health care to the rural population, especially the vulnerable populations. Reduction in MMR to 100/100,000 is one of its goals and the Janani Suraksha Yojana is the key strategy to achieve this reduction. But the awareness of scheme is low in women from rural areas and urban slums, especially in low performing states. Aims: To study the comparative awareness of JSY and the socio-demographic factors influencing it, among the recently delivered women (RDWs). Methodology: A community based cross-sectional study was carried out in the ten rural areas and urban slums coming under the practice areas of JNMC, AMU, Aligarh for a period of one year. The prevalence of institutional delivery in Uttar Pradesh as found in a study by UNFPA 2008 (50.2%) was used for calculation of sample size. The yielded sample size 300 was selected proportionately from these areas. The study subjects were interviewed by a pre-designed and pre-tested questionnaire. Statistical analysis used: MS excel, chi square and logistic regression. Results: Awareness regarding the existence of a monetary scheme related to institutional delivery was more in rural areas i.e 75%. Regarding components of JSY maximum people (78%) were aware about the cash component. Religion, caste, parity, socio-economic status and place of residence showed a significant statistical association with the level of awareness of JSY. Conclusions: There is an urgent need to strengthen IEC campaigns and monitoring strategies for JSY as well as regularize the monetary flow for the health workers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Iodine deficiency is a preventable cause of brain damage. Aims &Objectives : The present study was conducted to determine the prevalence of goiter in school going children clinically, to assess the iodine status (urinary iodine excretion) of school children, and to assess the iodine content of the salt consumed by the population. Materials and Methods: It is school based cross-sectional study, conducted in Mandla district of Madhya Pradesh state in central India in 2016. The study participants were school children in 6-12 years of age. Probability-proportional-to-size cluster sampling was used. Palpation method was used to identify the presence of goiter. Urine samples were collected and median urinary iodine excretion was found. The salt samples were also collected from the households and local market to determine the iodinization status. Results: A total of 2700 school children were studied. The total goitre rate was 0.74%. Among those clinically palpable goiter 15(75%) were girls. The prevalence of goitre higher among girls was statically significant with p=0.025. All the cases of clinically palpable goiter belonged to caste other than general with p<0.001. The median urinary iodine excretion of 270 urine samples of school children was 184 ^g/l. The prevalence of iodine deficiency disorders using urinary iodine excretion as indicator in the present study was 22.9% Seven percent of the samples had median urinary iodine The normal iodine content i.e more than the 15 ppm iodine was present in 84% of samples collected from households. Conclusion: The children of Mandla district of Madhya Pradesh had low prevalence of goiter. However, there is significant burden of goiter among backward classes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Children living under institutional care are more prone to behavioral and emotional problems than others, as they are deprived a family environment. There a more number of studies focusing the mental health problems of children under institutional care in India. Aims & Objectives: This was a descriptive study which explores the behavioral and emotional problems of children's under institutional care. Material & Methods: The sample consisted of 50 children living under institutional care run by voluntary run institutional homes (private individuals) in Coimbatore city. A semi structure questionnaire was used to get the socio demographic data. The Self Report Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) were used to assess the behavioral problems in children under institutional care. Results: In our study, 21 (42%) out of 50 children were found to be having behavioral problems. Conduct problem and peer pressure (42%) were found to be most prevalent followed by emotional problem (34%), hyperactivity (24%) and low prosocial behavior (14%). Conclusion: The children under institutional care are vulnerable to conduct, peer pressure and emotional problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Substance use is an ever-increasing public health problem in the Indian society. Besides being a personal health risk, it is also a social and economic issue. The present study was undertaken to find out the prevalence and pattern of substance use in rural Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Material & Methods: A cross sectional community-based study was undertaken in rural Bhubaneswar in two phases, a pre survey qualitative assessment followed by the quantitative assessment. The prevalence, pattern and habit of use of different psychoactive substances were accessed using a predesigned pretested questionnaire among 574 study participants of greater than ten years of age. Results: The prevalence of use of at least one substance was 44.1%. Tobacco (smokeless) was the most commonly used substance followed by alcohol and smoked tobacco. Male gender, age greater than 40 years, joint family and being illiterate were the important predictors of substance use. Conclusions: A predominance of smokeless tobacco consumption was found in our study. Family members' being the source of introduction in majority of users is a matter of serious concern. Community based intervention strategies can be helpful in targeting the rural population for deaddiction and delivering a social message for curbing the use of harmful substances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bio-medical waste is perilous and can be a health hazard. There is considerable role of medical undergraduates, interns and post-graduates in preventing hazardous consequences from mishandling of biomedical waste. Aims & Objectives: To assess the knowledge, attitude and practice about Bio-medical waste management among medical undergraduates, interns and post-graduate students. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 75 participants including MBBS students, interns and post-graduate students (25 from each group) at King George's Medical University, Lucknow through purposive sampling technique over a period of one month. A structured self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Data were analyzed using Chi-square, Fischer-exact, one-way ANOVA and Post Hoc (Tukey) Tests. Results: MBBS students had more knowledge and the better attitude towards BMW management guidelines as compared to interns and post-graduates(p<0.001), while post-graduate students were more aware of the needle-stick injury and were correctly practicing BMW management as compared to MBBS students and interns(p<0.001). Conclusions: Knowledge, attitude and practice regarding BMW management is still inadequate among MBBS students, interns and post-graduates, so repeated training-retraining and supportive supervision regarding the same should be foster. Strict regulations and surprise perusals might be a strong impetus for medical students and other health personnel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Garo Hills region of the State of Meghalaya is inhabited by mainly Garos. The details on the occurrence of different cancers from this region has not been reported. Aims & Objectives The study was undertaken to provide a general scenario on the prevalence and epidemiology of cancers in Garo Hills. Material & Methods: Total 1610 registered cases in the selected hospitals were studied. Detail information such as the age, sex, occupation, lifestyle and the type of cancer of the patients were collected from the hospital records. Results: The findings reveal that the age group between 41-50 years mostly developed different cancers. The highest incidence of cancer in the people was throat cancer followed by oesophageal cancer. Among females, breast is the leading site of cancer whereas in the males the leading site was found to be the throat. Conclusion: The prevalence of throat and oesophageal cancers in the people of Garo hills could be correlated with the common consumption of tobacco and raw betel quid (locally called gue) by young to adult and it is socially acceptable. It is suggested that effective measures should be taken to increase the awareness and cancer registry should be initiated in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: India is experiencing a rapid health transition with a rising burden of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and inappropriate lifestyle is the most remarkable risk factor associated to NCDs. Aim & Objective: To assess the prevalence of NCDs and their association with physical activity among urban elderly. Material and methods: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted among 112 geriatric population (≥60 years) in cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. The data on medical history, lifestyle, diet and physical activity was obtained using a pre-tested questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements such as weight, height and waist circumference were measured. Intravenous blood samples were collected to estimate the biochemical parameters. Result: About 64.3 % of elderly have been practicing physical activity i.e. predominantly walking, while 35.7% were sedentary. The prevalence of hypertension (87.5%), diabetes (65.3%), central obesity (77.8%) and metabolic syndrome (59.7%) was higher among walkers as compared to non-walkers and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome was significantly (p<0.005) high among the elderly suffering from Cardio Vascular Diseases (CVDs). Conclusion: In general, the prevalence of non-communicable diseases was high among urban geriatric population. Therefore, primordial and primary preventive measures should be adopted during adolescence and early adulthood for the prevention and control of NCDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ageing is a natural phenomenon associated with physiological and functional decline in the body, which makes elderly people vulnerable to malnutrition and age related morbidity. Hence, this study was undertaken to assess nutritional status and morbidity pattern of urban elderly. Aims & Objectives: To assess the nutritional status and the morbidity status of urban elderly. Material and methods: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted among the urban elderly in Hyderabad. A total of 261 individuals of ≥60 years were recruited for this study. Anthropometric measurements were measured to assess nutritional status. Pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect information on demographic particulars and self-reported morbidity profile. Data are presented as mean ± standard error and significance level was considered at p < 0.05. Result: The mean height and weight were 160.49 Cm ±0.55 and 66.59 Kg ± 0.68, respectively while the mean BMI was 25.83 Kg/m2 ± 0.22. The prevalence of overweight and obesity among urban elderly was 46.0% and 31.4 %, respectively. The prevalence of central and truncal obesity was 60.1% and 84.6% respectively. The prevalence of morbidities such as poor vision, hypertension, joint pains, diabetes, cataract and hyperacidity was 86.1%, 63.2%, 49.4%, 48.3%, 36% and 32.2% respectively. There was a significant (p<0.05) gender difference among BMI, central obesity, CVDs, joint pains and osteoarthritis. Conclusion: In general, the prevalence of NCDs such as obesity, hypertension and diabetes are significant public health concern among urban elderly. Therefore, primordial and primary preventive measures should be adopted during adolescence and early adulthood for the prevention and control of NCDs during the period of ageing [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sexual health is an integral part of overall health and well-being and determination of sexuality of the youth is an important milestone in understanding their behavior, associated risks and outcomes. The declining age at puberty and increasing age at marriage has created a longer growing period in which youth may engage in sexual health risk behaviors. This research focuses attention on estimation and involvement of the most dynamic & valuable segment of a nation's population towards sexual risk behaviors. Aims & objectives: The aim of this study is to find out the prevalence and determinants of sexual health risk behaviors amongst youth in District Dehradun. Material and methods: It was a cross-sectional study conducted over a period of 06 months in rural and urban area of District Dehradun. The study surveyed 1800 male youth aged 15-24 years using a self-administered questionnaire (YRBSS & Big five inventory). After collection, the data was entered using the SPSS software and analyzed using SPSS and Microsoft Excel 2010. Results: Out of 1800 participants, 19% were found to be at risk of sexual health risk behavior and reported having had sex. Out of these 342 at-risk, 43.5% accepted involving in sexual activity even before adulthood, 31% reported having multiple sexual partners and 21.1% accepted not using condoms. Place of residence and personality trait were found to be important determinants of sexual health risk behaviors. Conclusion: Our study documented the high prevalence of sexual risk behavior among male youth of rural and urban area of District Dehradun. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neuropsychiatric disorders are quite prevalent in the community and are on the rise due to changing lifestyles and lack of social support. Most of the published data is from hospital, which calls for more community-based studies to measure the actual burden of this menace. Aim & Objective: To estimate the prevalence of neuropsychiatric disorders in district Dehradun and to find out association of socio-demographic correlates with neuropsychiatric disorders Settings and Design: This community based cross-sectional survey was conducted in selected rural and urban areas of district Dehradun. Methods and Material: Study areas and households were selected by multistage stratified and systematic random samplings respectively. Participants were chosen from the selected households by Kish method. Respondents were screened for neuropsychiatric disorders by using MINI-6. Statistical analysis used: data was entered in SPSS 20.0 version and analysed by using percentages, chis-quare test and logistic regression. Results: About one fifth of the respondents had a lifetime diagnosis of at least one neuropsychiatric disorder. Age, male gender, higher education, joint family and upper socio-economic status were found to be significantly associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. Conclusions: Factors determining psychological wellbeing are deeply rooted in socio-demographic environment and individual characteristics. Many of the respondents had one or more lifetime neuropsychiatric disorder and most of them were not diagnosed. More community-based research is required to determine the exact magnitude and responsible factors of neuropsychiatric disorders, so that a focused strategy may be developed to address its preventable aspect [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dyslipidemia is a major contributing determinant in the development of ischemic heart diseases, stroke, and other vascular diseases. It increases the risk of mortality amongst the geriatric population. Aims & Objectives: To assess the prevalence of dyslipidemia in geriatric rural population residing in a hilly district of Uttarakhand state, India. Material & Methods: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted during 2015 - 2016 in District Nainital, Uttarakhand. A list of all villages with their population in the district was developed. From this list, thirty villages were identified using population proportionate to size sampling method. From each village 30 geriatric subjects were selected. A total of 1003 geriatric subjects aged 60 years and above were included in the study. The data was collected on socio demographic profile and lipid profile from all the enrolled subjects. The prevalence of dyslipidemia was assessed using National Cholesterol Education Programme (NCEP) criteria. Result: The overall prevalence of dyslipidemia was 50.6%. A total of 26.3% participants had hypercholesterolemia, 34.2% had hypertriglyceridemia and 23.5% had high LDL levels. The prevalence of dyslipidemia was higher in women compared to men. Conclusion: High prevalence of dyslipidemia was found amongst geriatric rural population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Wide variation exists in the nutritional status of under 5 years children among districts/states and more focus is needed on less developed districts in order to allocate resources. Ranking of districts provide baseline information for allocating resources to poor ranking districts and can be considered for comparison of progress in future studies. Aims & Objectives: To rank the districts of Andhra Pradesh state using a multi-criteria decision making method based on the major nutritional and health indicators. Materials and Methods: Data provided by NFHS-4 on nutrition and health indicators of women and children in the state was used to rank the districts in the state. A multi-criteria decision making technique called TOPSIS is used for ranking of the districts in the state based on the selected health indicators. Results: It is observed that Krishna district ranked first and Vizianagaram holds the last rank. The better performing districts include Krishna, Chittoor, East Godavari, Visakhapatnam and Guntur, whereas poor performing districts include Vizianagaram, Kurnool, Srikakulam and Prakasham. Indicators such as per capita income, urbanization, sanitation, use of clean fuel and maternal education were observed high, while infant and maternal mortality was low in in good performing districts. Conclusion: It is concluded that the district with poor nutrition and health indicator ranked last while those with good indicators ranked first. The priority should be given for the development of poor performing districts to improve the above indicators by allocating more resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Evaluation of published original research conducted amongst Indian medical undergraduate students. Methodology: A systematic review was undertaken using keywords "MBBS students" or "medical students" or "health students" or "university students" and "India" through search engines, PUBMED and Google scholar. Considering feasibility, time frame of published original research article was restricted to one-year only i.e. 2016. Research domain, research design, author and other bibliometric details of research manuscript were captured using check-list and analysis carried out using descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 99 suitable original research articles were identified under certain criteria and considered in present analysis. With regard to thematic research domain, highest, 29 (29.2%) articles were related to teaching and learning process followed by 13 (13.1%) to mental health (depression, anxiety, sleep, spirituality) of students; 07 (7.0%) were based on physical fitness/exercise/yoga; and substance abuse (6.0%) amongst medical students etc. Nearly, 86 (86.8%) of articles were cross-sectional descriptive based studies while 13 (13.1%) had intervention based research design. A total of 34 (34.3%) research articles could be labeled as "KAP" (knowledge, attitude and practice) survey. Department wise detail of corresponding author was largely dominated by faculty from pre and para-clinical departments. Highest was community medicine in (35.3%) articles, pharmacology (23.2%), physiology (17.1%), microbiology (6.0%), and biochemistry (4.0%) etc. The studies covered an average sample size of 188.8 MBBS students (20-360, range); 57.5% of research article covered students from only one professional year. However, in 42 (42.4%) articles there was no further mention of gender based sample information. Out of all the references used in research articles, only 57.3% were of recent (2005-2015) origin while the rest were from older time-frame. Conclusion: A systematic evaluation of published original research articles conducted upon MBBS undergraduate students studying in Indian medical colleges was undertaken, probably first of its kind in India. In conclusion, diverse topics of research have been conducted by the teaching faculties and this study provides the over-view of the same [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The number of primary school children that become victims of sexual abuse are always increasing year by year. Aim & Objective: This study evaluated the effectiveness of interventions for sexual abuse prevention on knowledge and assertiveness behaviour of primary school age children, which were committed by two different professions, namely nurses and teachers. Material & Methods: The study method was a quantitative with quasi- experimental design types of non-equivalent control group design. The population in this study were all primary school children in the city of Padang, consist of 91,966 children, with total sample of 1,112 children. Measurement of the knowledge and behaviour of children was performed 4 times total, then followed by statistical tests with GLM Repeated Measures. Results: Mean and standard deviation values from knowledge of nurses intervention group: p1(3.37; +1.37), p2(4.62; +1.72), p3(4.97; +1.53), p4(5.52; +1.20). Mean and standard deviation value from the group's assertiveness: s1(24.44; +4.20), s2(28.66; +2.58), s3(31.38; +1.50), s4(32.80; +2.115) with p value =0.00. While the Mean and standard deviation values from knowledge of teacher's intervention group: p1(3.21; +1.30), p2 (3.83; +1.14), p3(4.01; +0.99), p4(4.53; +0.875). Mean and standard deviation value from the group's assertiveness: s1(24.47; +4.38), s2(27.56; +3.65), s3(27.34; +4.40), s4(29.90; +2.87) with p value =0,00. Scores difference between the nurses intervention group with teachers intervention group is 0.73 points for knowledge and 2.00 points for assertiveness behaviour. Conclusion: Intervention model that was conducted by nurses is the best model. It is recommended that this model can be used as a model for primary prevention of sexual abuse against primary school age children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Using data from the National Family Health Survey, present study was planned to find out the determinants of anaemia in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Aims & Objective: To find out the level and determinants of trend of anaemia. Binary logistic regression was used to examine the factors affecting anaemia among children of Uttar Pradesh. Results & Conclusion: In Uttar Pradesh, there were about 38% of the literate mothers, 23.3% were employed and 34.5% were undernourished. Anaemia level among male were 72.6% and 73.4% among females, about 74.6% in rural areas and 69.7%in urban areas. Maternal Anaemia was present in 77.2 %of women. About 73.9% children are anemic in the Uttar Pradesh state followed by female 49.9% and male 24.3%. The prevalence of severe anaemia is the highest 3.6% in children followed by women 1.6 % and men 2.0%. Children aged 13 to 24 months are significantly (OR; 6.05, CI; 4.04-9.04) more likely to be severely anemic compared to children of 25 to 59 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the study that assesses the prevalence of the risk factors of cardiovascular diseases, including obesity, smoking and sedentary lifestyles, among medical students in South India. It states that a cross-sectional survey was conducted involving medical students from a private medical school. Results of the study confirm the poor compliance of the students on recommended physical activity and dietary intake. The need to alter the health behavior of the students is emphasized.