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Background: Measles is the leading cause of child mortality in India. MR vaccine provides immunity against measles & rubella and was offered in 2 doses – 9 completed months and 16-24 months of age. This study aims to assess the awareness among the parents of children (aged 9 months – 2 years) in Mangalore about the presence and the risks associated with measles and rubella and to determine how the parents perceive the MR vaccination drive launched by the Government of India in terms of its necessity and safety of their children. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 188 parents of children between the age of 9 months – 2 years from health centers in Mangalore. The data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire- consisting of 3 sections: 1) Socio-demographic information of study participants 2) Knowledge-based questions on measles and rubella 3) Perception of MR vaccination drive. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 21. Appropriate statistical tests were applied, and results were interpreted. Results: The study population mainly comprised individuals aged 23-30 years (37.8%), predominantly females (65.3%), they prefer government hospitals for child vaccination (71.5%), resulting in 73.1% of children being meeting national immunization targets by age 2 years. Only 33,4% of the parents have understanding of Measles and Rubella diseases and associated risks. Parents exhibit awareness of the MR vaccine drive (Overall 86.7%) through newspapers (46.0%) and schools (39.0%), supporting its mandatory status (76.0%). Doctors play a crucial role in addressing parental queries (59.5%) regarding the MR vaccination drive. Conclusions: Parents show awareness of the MR Vaccination Drive but lack understanding of Measles and Rubella diseases and associated risks. Despite limited knowledge, parent’s express receptiveness to the MR Vaccination, drive for their children’s safety, with some showing interest in learning more about the vaccine and diseases.

Background: Thyroid ailments are frequently encountered endocrine disorders next to diabetes. They arise either due to functional aberrations of the thyroid gland resulting in over or under secretion of thyroid hormone or due to structural anomalies. People have varied constitutional, non-specific manifestations that cause abnormal metabolic functioning of the thyroid gland. Objectives: 1. To describe the socio-demographic characteristics of patients with thyroid disorders. 2. To analyze the clinical features, laboratory findings, and clinical outcomes of these patients. Methodology: This hospital-based descriptive study was conducted at the Government Wenlock Hospital in Mangalore. The study included patients admitted with thyroid disorders in the last 2 years. Data extraction sheet was developed from patient medical records. The sheet comprised three sections: socio-demographic information, clinical features at admission, and investigations and outcomes. Results: Most of the patients (52.8%) belonged to the 20-40 age group, followed by 30.5% in the 40-60 age group. Females comprised 81.5% of the study population, males -18.5%. 74.8% had swelling, 3.2% had facial puffiness. 1.8% had weight gain, only 1.2% had weight loss .16.3% had other comorbid conditions. 31.5% had low TSH levels 49.3% had normal TSH levels, 64.5 % - normal T3 levels, 63.2% - normal T4 levels. Anaemia was reported in 15.2% o, while 7.2% developed oedema. 34.2% had multinodular goitre, 20.2% - hypothyroidism 9.5 % - hyperthyroidism and 11.1% - malignancy. Out of the total 97% recovered 1% died 1% had discharge against medical advice and 1 % got discharged on request. Conclusion: Majority were females in the 20-40 age group. Majority of them had swelling followed by facial puffiness. Most of them had normal TSH, T3 and T4 levels, anaemia and oedema was also reported in few. Majority had multinodular goitre followed by hypothyroidism, malignancy, and hyperthyroidism. Majority had recovered.

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.

Background: The Hospital-based Cancer Registry (HBCR) part of the National Cancer Registry Programme provides the number of cancer cases attending the hospital in various disciplines and the exact type of cases classified, diagnosed and treated. This study was done to assess the socio-demographic, clinical profile, and trend of malignancy cases in the tertiary care centres of Mangalore. Methodology: This Record-based retrospective study was conducted in tertiary care hospitals affiliated with Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore and all the cases of malignancies admitted during the study period were included. The data were collected using a proforma and analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. The results were expressed as proportions using appropriate tables and graphs. Results: A total of 600 cancer cases were identified, with females comprising nearly half 48.8%(n=293) and among them the highest number of cases, 28% (n=82) were found in the age group 60 and above. Overall, cancer cases appear to be more prevalent in older age groups for both genders. Among males, the most common cancers were Oral cavity cancers 34.2%(n=105), followed by Gastrointestinal (GI) tract cancers,16.3%(n=50). In females the most common cancers were found to be of the breast followed by uterine cancer then by oral cavity Conclusion: The prevalence of cancer in both genders were found to be almost the same. The highest number of cases were reported from Karnataka followed by Kerala. The highest prevalence was found in higher extremes of age above 60 years.

Background: Congenital anomalies can be defined as structural or functional anomalies that occur during intrauterine life and can be identified prenatally. Some of the congenital anomalies may be life threatening, hence an immediate management is required. This study is to determine the pattern of congenital anomalies among newborn babies and factors associated with it. Methodology: It was a descriptive study carried out at KMC Hospital, Attavar on all the new born babies with congenital abnormalities born or admitted in KMC Attavar. Data extraction sheet had two sections including the maternal details, history of newborn related to type of congenital anomalies and condition of the baby at birth. Data was entered and analyzed by using statistical software Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 11.5. Descriptive statistics like mean, proportions and standard deviation was used for expressing the results. Results: We found that 56.25% of the cases were of maternal age group

Background: Self-diagnosis is the process of determining a disease or disorder without seeking medical care. Advances in technology have made it easier for patients to get medical information online, fostering self-diagnosis and doctor cross-examination. The aim of this study is to estimate the proportion of study respondents who use the internet and other sources for self-diagnosis and explore their attitudes concerning self-diagnosis. Methodology: This cross- sectional study was conducted among 186 participants from hospitals affiliated to Kasturba Medical college, Mangalore (Govt Wenlock hospital and KMC Hospital, Attavar). The data was collected using a semi-structured, internally validated questionnaire- consisting of 3 sections: 1) General information of study participants 2A) Questions on self- diagnosis through different sources 2B) On their attitudes concerning self-diagnosis. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 24. Results were expressed in descriptive statistics. Results: This study on self-diagnosis was conducted among OPD attendees and found a mean age of 31 years, with 66.0 % males and 34.0 % females. Majority (98.4%) had media access, in which 67.7% online media for self-diagnosis. Specific diseases like cancer and infectious disease were common search topics (76.3%). One third of the total participants reported they have done online search for ailments related to their relatives or friends. Around 61.3% considered their sources reliable, while 50.5% intended to continue self-diagnosing. Notably, 61.3% made correct self- diagnoses which were confirmed later after the physical consultation with their treating physician, particularly among participants under 25 with higher education. Conclusion: Due to the development of artificial intelligence and internet access, even non-medical people are now searching the media for medical issues. Although there is a growing dependence on internet resources, most individuals still say they trust in future self-diagnosis but still prefer visiting a doctor rather than self-medicating. To educate the public about the risks associated with self-diagnosis and the purchase of over-the-counter medications, community-based behavioral change communication should be employed.

Background: The Indian census highlights persistent challenges in achieving balanced sex ratios, attributed to factors like female neglect, sex-selective abortion, and societal preferences for sons. These preferences stem from economic, religious, and social norms, perpetuating gender disparities. Despite national efforts, skewed sex ratios persist, particularly in regions like Haryana and Punjab. However, some areas, like Dakshina Kannada district in Karnataka, exhibit more favorable sex ratios, reflecting progress in gender equality. Overall, sex ratio improvement signifies societal health and equity in population distribution. This study aims to explore the socio demographic and fertility profile of post-natal women & factors affecting to gender preference among the study population. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 155 multiparous post-natal women, who were admitted in Lady Goshen Hospital and Kasturba Medical College, Attavar, Affiliated to Kasturba Medical college, Mangalore. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 25. Results were expressed using descriptive statistics and proportions. Results: In the study of postnatal women, the recent delivery of outcome was 84 females and 71 males and only 50.9% were aware of contraceptive methods, with condoms and IUCDs being most common among them. Despite this, 78.0% of respondents still perceive female feticide as prevalent. Son preference remains prominent, with 57.0% preferring a daughter as the second child if the first child is a son, and 75.0% desiring a son if the first child is a daughter, indicating a stronger bias towards sons. Conclusions: While most prefer two children, preferences for the second child vary based on the gender of the first child, reflecting societal gender biases. Superstitions regarding gender prediction were noted but deemed insignificant. The attitude of the mothers in study settings is comparative with the favorable sex ratios in the district.

Introduction: The construction industry is one of the most stable growing industries in the developing world. In India, it is the largest economic activity after agriculture. Since it is a labor-intensive industry, it consists of organized, unorganized, skilled, and unskilled labor. Morbidity is departure from a state of physical or psychological well-being, resulting from disease, illness, injury, or sickness, especially where the affected individual is aware of his or her condition which is more common among these workers. This study aims to assess the morbidity Pattern and health behavior among construction workers in a coastal block of Karnataka state. Methodology: This community based cross-sectional study was conducted among 230 manual labor workers at different construction sites in Mangalore. Data was collected using interview schedule and analyzed using SPSS version 24. Results were expressed as proportions using appropriate tables and graphs. Chi-square test will be used and P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: In the study majority were males aged 19-29 years, Hindu by religion 84%, and unmarried, with minimum of primary educational qualification and work experience of 1-5 years. The most prevalent morbidity was Musculo skeletal disorders which manifest as constant arthralgia, myalgia followed by ophthalmic manifestation like refractive errors. Hypertension was notable, with communicable diseases like Malaria being common morbidities. Tobacco and alcohol consumption were prevalent, but knowledge on preventive measures against mosquito bites and personal hygiene practices were limited. Safety precautions at construction sites were evident as it is mandatory. Conclusions: The study highlighted prevalent morbidity patterns among construction workers in Mangalore, which seek immediate remedial measures. Improving awareness and intervention regarding the health risks associated with tobacco and alcohol consumption pose significant challenges but are crucial for enhancing workers’ well-being aa well as hygiene practices.

Background: Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are non-cancerous growths of the uterus commonly occurring during childbearing years. Despite their benign nature, they can cause significant morbidity. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of uterine fibroids, socio- demographic profiles, clinical features, complications, treatment modalities, and outcomes among patients in a tertiary hospital setting. Methodology: A hospital-based retrospective study was conducted at Government Lady Goshen Hospital, Mangalore, from 8th February 2015 to 28th February 2015. Records of patients diagnosed with uterine fibroids in 2013 and 2014 were reviewed. Data on socio-demographic details, clinical features, complications, comorbid conditions, treatments, and outcomes were collected using a structured proforma and analysed using SPSS version 11.5. Results: A total of 177 cases of uterine fibroids were analysed. Most patients belonged to the age group of 31-40 years. Menstrual disturbances were common, with menorrhagia being predominant. Complications such as infertility and vaginal discharge were observed in 21.5% of cases. Surgical treatment, particularly hysterectomy, was commonly employed, resulting in a cure rate of 76.8%. Conclusion: This study provides insights into the clinical profile and management of uterine fibroids in a tertiary hospital setting. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management, considering socio-demographic factors and associated complications, are essential for improved outcomes in patients with uterine fibroids.

Background: Normal kidney dimensions are suggestive of normal kidney function. Degree of kidney function has a positive correlation with ultrasonic renal measurements. Co-morbid conditions affect the renal size. Therefore it becomes necessary to establish normal values of kidney dimensions for the diagnosis, prognosis and also as an early indication of renal diseases in order to prevent them. Objectives: To study the renal dimensions and association with socio- demographic conditions among the outpatient attendees in the study hospital. Methodology: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study done among the attendees of KMC Hospitals, Mangalore. Data extraction sheet included the socio-demographic details, Anthropometric measurements, personal history, history of comorbidities and sonographic dimensions of Kidney and laboratory findings of Renal Function Test. Data was entered and analyzed by using statistical software Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 29.0. Results: Out of 194 participants, 118(60.8%) were males. The difference between corresponding kidney lengths of males and females is found to be statistically significant. The length and anteroposterior dimension of left kidney is greater than right kidney and the difference is statistically significant. When the kidney lengths and the heights of the individual were correlated a positive correlation was obtained, (0.278) in case of right kidney and (0.245) in case of left kidney. Conclusion: Kidney length had positive correlation with height and BMI. Female kidney length was significantly smaller than the male kidney length. There was significant variation between right and left kidney lengths.

Background: By knowing the various sources of health information accessed by the people, it helps different organizations in better targeted delivery for health information. Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted among college going students from non-medical streams and adult in-patients seeking health care in the study hospitals using a semi- structured self-validated questionnaire. Results: The demographic details of the student study population consisted of 64.1% females and 35.9% males and that of adult population consisted of 20% females and 80% males. 36% of the adult population had finished high school education while on the other hand students were either graduates (72.8%) or postgraduates (27.2%). Among 41.2% students sought health information to know about the new health issues whereas 66.7% adult population sought health information for their general well-being. Internet is the major source of health information amongst the student population (55.6%) while 58.8% adult population sought health information from television. 9.8% adult population used journals to seek health information. 22.6% of students sought health information when they were ill on the other hand it was 5.9% among the adult population. In the Internet, 55% students accessed health information through social network and various search engines and 83.3% adult population accessed search engines. Family physician was the most trusted source of health information among both students(54%) and adult population(76.5%). Conclusion: Among the participants, most of the active seekers were students whose main source of health information was from the internet. Majority of the participants said family Physicians are the most trusted source of health- related information.

Background: Travel medicine is crucial in addressing the health risks associated with international travel, especially among young adults who are increasingly mobile. Despite the growth in global travel, studies indicate a lack of awareness and adherence to preventive measures among travellers. Objectives: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of medical and dental students regarding travel medicine. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among medical and dental students at Kasturba Medical College and Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Mangalore, India. A convenient sampling method was employed, and data was collected using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. The questionnaire assessed participants’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to travel medicine. Data analysis was performed using SPSS v20.0. Results: A total of 195 students participated, with a majority being female (72.3%) and in the age group ≤20 years (48.2%). Most participants had traveled internationally (71.3%) for purposes such as holidays (51.3%) and returning home (44.6%). While awareness of travel medicine was high (75.4%), knowledge levels were predominantly poor (50.3%). Participants showed high-risk perception towards health threats during travel but demonstrated low adherence to pre- and post-travel health check-ups. Key sources of information included the internet/social media (41.0%) and family/friends (35.9%). Conclusion: Despite high awareness, medical and dental students exhibited poor knowledge and inadequate adherence to preventive measures related to travel medicine. There was a notable disparity between perceived importance and actual practice of pre- and post-travel health check-ups. Efforts should be made to enhance education and awareness regarding travel medicine among young adults to mitigate travel-related health risks effectively.

Background: Gender preference among women remains a significant phenomenon that reflects the imbalance in the sex ratio. Understanding the determinants of gender preference is crucial in addressing associated challenges and promoting gender equality. Objectives: To study the socio-demographic profile of post-natal women, gender preference among them and the factors affecting their preference. Methodology: A hospital-based Cross-Sectional Study was conducted in a tertiary hospital in Mangalore among 155 multiparous postnatal women. The data were collected using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire and was analysed using SPSS version 17.0. Results: Overall, 54.83 % of the study participants belonged to the age group of 18-27 years, 57.42% were unaware of any techniques for determining a person’s sex, and the most frequently mentioned method was ultrasound. The proportion of respondents with a preference for a male child was only 20.6%. The most common reason was the male gender carrying the family name. According to 73% of respondents, having two children is ideal for a family, while having an equal number of boys and girls was the most desired combination (60%). There is a significant preference (75%) for the second child to be male if the first child was female. Conclusion: It’s noteworthy that the preference for a male child was often tied to cultural and familial considerations, such as carrying on the family name. Interestingly, the study also highlights a prevalent preference for a second child to be male if the first child was female, signifying the persistence of gender-biased attitudes.

Background: Dermatophytoses or Dermatophytic infections are diseases characterized by the infection of keratinized tissues. This study was done to study the epidemiological profile and factors associated with Dermatophytosis and the awareness towards the same among patients with such infections. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was carried out in the tertiary hospitals affiliated with Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore. A semi-structured questionnaire was used for the collection of data, which was entered and analysed using SPSS version 25. The results were expressed as proportions. To compare the groups, the Chi-square test was used and p

Background: Global health agencies have recognized the rising threat of non-communicable disease (NCD) as a major contributor to preventable disease and premature mortality in low- and middle-income countries. This study was done to study the Clinico-epidemiological and socio-demographic profile of Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) patients admitted in the selected tertiary care hospitals of Mangalore. Methodology: This record-based retrospective study was conducted in tertiary care hospitals affiliated to Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore. The records of all the ACS patients who were admitted to the hospitals during the study period were included in the study Results: There was a total of 646 patients, who were admitted with signs and symptoms of ACS to the study hospitals. Among them, 72% were from Dakshina Kannada District and 41.5% (n=258) were residents of Mangalore. Overall, the highest proportion (90.7%) of subjects was in the 41-80 years of age group and 80% of the study population was consuming a predominantly non-vegetarian diet, among both genders. Among the females, 84% were semiskilled workers and half of the male subjects were Professionals. The most common presenting clinical feature among the ACS patients was chest pain (81.4%), both among males (82.2%) and females (80%). Conclusion: The majority of the ACS patients admitted to the study hospitals were residents of the same District. The levels of ACS were higher among males, those with Diabetes Mellitus and hypertension. The majority of the ACS patients were non-vegetarians. Also, the increasing age had a higher proportion of ACS.

Background: School bags serve as a practical means for students to transport essential academic materials and personal items, including food. The significance of school bag weight has garnered increased attention in recent years due to its potential impact on the musculoskeletal health of school children. Excessive school bag weight has been identified as a significant contributor to various health issues, ranging from neck pain and shoulder discomfort to headaches, general fatigue, decreased muscle strength, and, notably, back injuries among children. Methods: The study involved 178 school children in Mangalore, ranging from 10-15 years, for a period of 23 days. School bag weights were measured using calibrated scales, and trunk strength was assessed using a hand held dynamometer. Statistical analysis, including Chi-square test, student’s ‘t’ test and Karl Pearson correlation test were employed to identify any significant relationships between these variables. Results: Preliminary findings revealed a positive correlation between school bag weight and trunk strength among the participants. Results indicated that a considerable proportion (83.1%) of students were burdened with an excessive load of bags. The evaluated muscular strength was discovered to be diminished in these individuals, and they experienced symptoms that were interconnected, highlighting the potential impact of school bag weight on the musculoskeletal health of children in Mangalore. Conclusion: These findings advocate measures to alleviate the burden on children’s musculoskeletal health. Further research and interventions are warranted to promote a balanced and healthy school environment for the well-being of the younger generation.

Background: Bus drivers suffer from musculoskeletal disorders manifested through tension, pain and decreased work capacity, due to the lack in postural variations and long working hours. Objectives: To study the pattern of morbidities among bus drivers and the factors responsible for the morbidities. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 100 bus drivers from Mangalore City were included. The sample size was calculated considering prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders as 70.7%, with 15% relative precision, and 95% confidence interval. Institutional Ethics Committee permission was obtained prior to the commencement of the study. Data was analysed using IBM SPSS for windows version 25.0, Armonk, New York, 25.0. Results: Among the 100 participants, 42 complained of one or more perceived musculoskeletal morbidity. The most common musculoskeletal problem was lower back pain (29) and knee pain (29), followed by upper back pain (13) and shoulder pain (9). Hip/thigh pain was the least common (1), followed by neck (3) and wrists/hands (3). Out of the 18 bus drivers with coughs, all of them complained of early morning cough. Clinical assessment revealed reduced visual acuity among 32 subjects, 87% of bus drivers were found to have pre-hypertension and 5% had stage 1 hypertension, 37 were obese and 34 were normal. Conclusion: Musculoskeletal morbidities were found to be the most common among bus drivers, followed by reduced visual acuity.

Background: Spectacle compliance is vital among the young population to combat visual impairment arising from untreated refractive errors. Encouraging spectacle use is crucial, despite the challenges they present, such as fogging, scratches, and discomfort when prescribed wrong Objectives: 1. To study the obstacles faced by medical undergraduates while using spectacles. 2. To find out the various factors associated with the obstacles faced by undergraduates while wearing spectacles. Methodology: The study protocol was submitted for the approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee (IEC) of Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore. After obtaining the approval from ethics committee, permission was obtained from the Dean of Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore and data collection was done after receiving informed consent from the participants. A semi- structured questionnaire was distributed to the participants Results: 72.7% faced obstacle of dependency on spectacles and 71.5% faced difficulty of adjusting spectacles with gloved hands. · Out of 60(34.9%) study participants who ride two-wheeler, 21(35%) participants faced difficulties while riding due to spectacle use and wearing helmet(42.8%), glaring(19.1%) and fogging(14.2%) were the major difficulties faced. · Among 54(32%) study participants who drive 4-wheeler, 9(16.6%) participants faced difficulties while driving due to spectacle use and the major difficulties encountered were glaring(55.5%) and restricted field of vision(22.2%). · A statistically significant association with P value of 0.001 was established between duration of spectacle usage and dependency on spectacles Conclusion: Based on our study, we have found that most of the participants have been using spectacles for 1-10 years mainly for correction of refractive errors like myopia and thus use spectacles throughout the day.

Background: Robotic surgery is a novel venture in medical sciences that uses robotic systems to assist and carry out surgical procedures and is one of the most discussed topics in surgery today. However, there is paucity of information regarding awareness, attitude and perceptions related to robotic surgery among the future surgical care providers (i.e., interns and postgraduates). Methodology: This cross-sectional study was carried out among all the Medical Interns and the Postgraduates posted in the surgical Departments of KMC Mangalore (General Surgery, OBG, ENT, Ophthalmology, Orthopedics and Anaesthesia) using Universal sampling technique and data were collected using a semi-structured, pre-validated questionnaire consisting of two sections. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software version 25. The results were summarized as percentages, tables and figures. For comparison across the groups chi-square test was used and a value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: One hundred sixty-nine Interns and surgical Postgraduates were included in total in the study with a mean age of 25 years. Among the study participants,57.3% (n=59) of Interns and 57.6% (n=38) of Postgraduates have seen robotic surgery being performed in the past. More than half of the study participants, 66%(n=68) interns and 72.7%(n=48) postgraduates were aware of the Da Vinci robotic surgical system. Among the challenges for mainstreaming robotic surgery, cost was the most important concern among 53.3% (n=57) interns and 53%(n=35) postgraduates. Conclusion: In our study majority of the participants, Interns (64.1%) and Post graduates (84.8%) had a positive outlook towards robotic surgery & believed cost (55.3 % Interns and 53% Post graduates) was one of the major constrains limiting its use

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.

Background: The incidence of PCOS among females is increasing. Awareness among women about PCOS can help in early diagnosis and prevention by making lifestyle modifications. Lifestyle modifications not only help in prevention of disease but also in managing the symptoms and complications. Objectives: 1. To find out the perception regarding PCOS among students of different courses. 2. To assess the knowledge about PCOS among students Methodology: A cross-sectional study on Undergraduate medical, dental and allied health sciences students enrolled in KMC, Mangalore and MCODS, Mangalore Results: 12.6% of the students had a family history of PCOS. 85% of the students have heard about PCOS. Out of the people who have heard about PCOS 20% have been diagnosed with it. Out of the people who have heard about PCOS, most of the students knew that PCOS is associated with irregular periods, infertility, mood swings and hormonal disturbances. Conclusion: Awareness about PCOS is maximum among MBBS students followed by AHS and then BDS students.

Drug dependence is still to be recognized in developing countries as a significant public health problem and literature on the magnitude of this problem is limited. The present research was planned to study the socio-demographic profile and the reasons for substance use among patients admitted at De-addiction centres in Mangalore, India. In this cross-sectional study, all the patients admitted at the De-addiction centres during the study period were interviewed. The data was analyzed and the results obtained were expressed in proportions. A total of 83 patients were included in the study, all of whom were males. A positive family history of substance use was evident in 63% of the respondents. The mean age of the study participants was 41.9 (SD±11.2) years and the mean age for starting substance use was 20.9 (SD±7.7) years. The most common substance used was alcohol (95.2%). Majority of the subjects (56.6%) cited peer pressure as a reason for initiating substance use. Our findings suggest that the initiation of substance use occurs during late teenage years and mostly due to peer pressure. Our observations point towards the vulnerability of younger age towards substance use and hence, it is proposed that the preventive health policies in this regard should be targeted specifically during teenage years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]