Journal of Education and Health Promotion

Depression and quality of life among elderly: Comparative cross‑sectional study between elderly in community and old age homes in Eastern India

. Soumya S. Sahoo; . Vazinder Kaur; . Udit K. Panda; . Bhola Nath; . Pragyan P. Parija; . Dinesh P. Sahu

Volume 12, Issue 8 , September 2022, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Depression among elderly is an emerging public health concern. Along with othercomorbidities, depression affects the quality of life and functional ability of the geriatric ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Depression among elderly is an emerging public health concern. Along with othercomorbidities, depression affects the quality of life and functional ability of the geriatric population.This study aimed to assess the depression and quality of life among elderly and compare theseparameters among the inhabitants of old age home and in the community.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional study was conducted among the elderly of thecommunity and old‑age homes in the urban areas of Raipur, Chhattisgarh between March andJuly 2016. Hundred elderly (50 in each group) participated in the study. Geriatric Depression Scale15 (GDS‑15) and Older People Quality of Life (OPQoL)‑35 scale were used to assess the geriatricdepression and quality of life, respectively. Association between depression and demographicvariables were analyzed by Chi‑square/Fisher’s exact test. Pearson’s correlation coefficient wascalculated between GDS‑15 and OPQoL‑35 scale.RESULTS: The prevalence of geriatric depression was 59%. Quality of life was better among theold‑age home elderly participants than that of community elderly when compared for score of lifeover all (11.78 vs. 13.56), health (12.8 vs. 14.0), social relationship (10.48 vs. 13.9), control overlife (11.92 vs. 14.08), home and neighborhoods (9.38 vs. 12.36), psychological and emotionalwellbeing (10.96 vs. 13.7), financial circumstances (14.5 vs. 16.7), and leisure and activities (13.86 vs.15.28). Moderate positive correlation was observed between depression and quality of life.CONCLUSION: The higher prevalence in our study emphasizes the need to delineate the actualburden in the elderly population and provide necessary supportive measures. It needs to be addressedadequately through a coordinated primary care approach and community and social support. Timelyand adequate management of depression can improve the quality‑of‑life outcomes.

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Factors influencing professionalism among nurse educators: A qualitative study

. Bharat Pareek; . Kiran Batra

Volume 12, Issue 8 , September 2022, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Nurse educators require to exhibit specialized behaviors that demonstrate the beliefsof the nursing profession. The aim of the study is to explore the factors influencing ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Nurse educators require to exhibit specialized behaviors that demonstrate the beliefsof the nursing profession. The aim of the study is to explore the factors influencing professionalismamong nurse educators in the selected nursing educational institutes of Indian States.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Qualitative approach was adopted where multiple focus groupdiscussions were planned and conducted. The study was carried out among nurse educators fromthe Northern Indian states. Thematic analysis, using the argumentative interactions approach wasused. The consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) guide were followed.RESULTS: Three types of factors, that is, individual (micro‑level), organizational (meso‑level), andexternal professional occupational (macro‑level) were explored, where individual factors emerged ashaving a strong positive impact on nurse educators’ professionalism as compared to other factors.Poor organizational infrastructure, privatization of educational institutions, and other related factorswere reported as having a negative influence on nurse educators’ professionalism.CONCLUSION: Most of the educational institutions included in the present study, lacked basicinfrastructure/facilities for the professional development of nurse educators and professionalism.

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Exploring Challenges of Access to Non‑Communicable Disease (NCD) Prevention, Treatment and Care: A Qualitative Study on People Living with NCDs (PLWNCDs) in West Bengal, India

. Sutapa Biswas; . Debayan Podder; . Sweety Suman Jha; . Prachi Kathuria; . Bobby Paul

Volume 12, Issue 7 , August 2022, , Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: People living with noncommunicable diseases (PLWNCDs) are oftendisproportionately affected due to adverse interaction with socioecological and biological factors.Hence, ...  Read More BACKGROUND: People living with noncommunicable diseases (PLWNCDs) are oftendisproportionately affected due to adverse interaction with socioecological and biological factors.Hence, it is imperative to learn from their lived experience to gain a greater understanding ofinteractions as well as explore their priorities and needs in accessing care and identify areas ofpriority action through multistakeholder engagement.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The qualitative study with grounded theory approach wasconducted between October and December 2020. An online key‑informant interview with the healthpolicymaker, virtual group discussion with eight PLWNCDs, and in‑depth telephonic interviewswith five PLWNCDs were conducted, after obtaining informed consent using interview guide,developed, and validated by the experts. Data collection continued till data saturation was achieved.Transcripts generated from the interview recordings were coded using hand‑code technique andanalyzed thematically.RESULTS: Challenges faced by PLWNCDs in accessing care were lack of empathy and supportfrom health‑care professionals, stigma, financial hardship, and hospital overcrowding. Caregiversemphasized on the felt need to involve civil society organizations (CSOs) in raising awareness towardnoncommunicable diseases (NCDs) at family, community, and policymaking levels. The need forhome‑based NCD care and rehabilitation centers was voiced by the PLWNCDs. Impediments towardeffective implementation of NCD policies were adoption of a “top‑down” approach, poor awarenessabout government health insurance schemes, skewed distribution of empanelled hospitals in andaround cities, nonavailability of qualified health‑care professionals in underserved areas, aggravatedallocation‑utilization disparity during COVID‑19 pandemic, and lack of robust information technologyinfrastructure to support access to telemedicine services.CONCLUSION: The collective role of governments, CSOs, and health‑care providers, along withmeaningful involvement of PLWNCDs, would help to create an enabling environment for overcomingthe challenges of access to care and thus achieve universal health coverage.

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Financial literacy and its correlates among healthcare professionals of India: An ignored educational need

. Neeraj Agarwal; . Bijit Biswas

Volume 12, Issue 6 , July 2022, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Financial literacy is a person’s capability to manage their own monetary matters. There was no information available on financial literacy status of healthcare ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Financial literacy is a person’s capability to manage their own monetary matters. There was no information available on financial literacy status of healthcare professionals (HCPs) of India. So, the current research was formulated to assess the financial literacy status and its correlates among HCPs of India.MATERIALS AND METHODS: It was an observational study, cross‑sectionally designed, conducted among 524 HCPs of India using a structured Google form during July 2020. For data analysis, SPSS (version 22) was used.RESULTS: Among the study participants, 68.3% were found to be financially literate. Among the various subdomains of the total financial literacy, knowledge regarding general domain was observed to be the best (69.3%) followed by savings (63.7%) and investment (58.0%) domains, respectively. The total financial literacy score was found to be positively correlated with higher age [spearman rho correlation co‑efficient (ρ) = 0.25; P =< 0.01], qualification [(medical postgraduate) (ρ = 0.16;P =< 0.01); (medical super speciality) (ρ = 0.14; P =< 0.01)], and annual family income (ρ = 0.29;P =< 0.01). Moreover, males (ρ = 0.23; P =< 0.01)], currently married (ρ = 0.19; P =< 0.01), and surgeons (ρ = 0.12; P =< 0.01) were found to be more financially literate compared with others. Positive financial attitude (ρ = 0.26; P =< 0.01) and regular maintenance of financial record (ρ = 0.21;P =< 0.01) were the other enabling factors of financial literacy observed in the study.CONCLUSIONS: Financial literacy was found to be quite low in the surveyed HCPs as every third study participant were found to be deficient in knowledge regarding one or more financial attributes. Incorporation of finance management in curriculum of the healthcare allied courses and repeated sensitization of the graduated HCPs are warranted to enable them to take effective financial decisions to meet their personal and organizational financial goals.

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Academic stress and associated sociodemographic variables: A study of pre‑university students in Karnataka, India

. Shreemathi S. Mayya; . Arun Mayya; . Maxie Martis; . Vani Lakshmi R

Volume 12, Issue 6 , July 2022, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Academic stress is a predominant phenomenon among grade 11 and 12 students. The performance in Grade 12 is important for entry to higher education programs in India. ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Academic stress is a predominant phenomenon among grade 11 and 12 students. The performance in Grade 12 is important for entry to higher education programs in India. The purpose of the study was to assess the magnitude of the perceived academic stress and identify the main stressors and the sociodemographic variables associated with the perceived academic stress among adolescents enrolled in the science stream in coastal Karnataka.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Upon Institutional Ethical Committee approval, a cross‑sectional survey was carried out among pre‑university students (science stream) of coastal Karnataka during February–April 2021. The study used Manipal Inventory of Academic Stress (MIAS) scale to collect data on perceived academic stress from 1859 students (response rate 68.3%). Stratified cluster sampling method was used to collect data from the study participants. IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 26.0 was used to analyze the data. Descriptive statistics, unpaired t‑test, one‑way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and multiple linear regression analyses were used to study the association between academic stress and various demographic variables.RESULTS: The study revealed that 28% of the Grade 11 students and 26% of the Grade 12 students experienced high or extreme stress. The significant stressors were lack of time for revision, queries from neighbors or relatives, and parental expectations on academic performance. Gender, residence, and the medium of instruction until Grade 10 were associated with academic stress.CONCLUSION: Measures at the institutional and national levels are necessary to reduce the academic stress in higher secondary education. The integrated curriculum proposed in the National Educational Policy 2020 addresses a few stressors identified in this study.

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Is ignorance of the weekly iron and folic acid scheme among adolescents the deciding factor for its suboptimal utilization and ineffectiveness? A cross‑sectional study

. Surya Bali; . Yash Alok

Volume 12, Issue 5 , June 2022, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  INTRODUCTION: Targeting the huge burden of adolescent anemia, the Weekly Iron and Folic acidSupplementation (WIFS) was launched by the Government of India. Few studies have been doneto ...  Read More INTRODUCTION: Targeting the huge burden of adolescent anemia, the Weekly Iron and Folic acidSupplementation (WIFS) was launched by the Government of India. Few studies have been doneto assess the effective functioning of the program since its inception. The present study was doneto assess the knowledge WIFS among adolescents of Madhya Pradesh and the associated factors.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional study was done in a total of six districts(3 districts where the national adolescent program was implemented and 3 districts where it was not)of Madhya Pradesh. Multistage stratified random sampling technique was used for the enrollment of3213 adolescent boys and girls, and a prestructured and validated tool was used to collect paperlessdata. Ethical approval and consent from the participants were obtained. Statistical analysis wasperformed using SPSS v21.RESULTS: It was observed that the knowledge of WIFS was more among adolescent girls (29.3%)as compared to adolescent boys (14.1%). More of the adolescent girls received Iron and folic acidtablets as compared to adolescent boys (60.8% girls vs. 24.1% boys). Mostly, the adolescents gotIron tablets from school followed by Anganwadi and PHC/CHC. Girls, rural location, literacy, belowpoverty line status, knowledge of anemia, adolescents who got iron and albendazole tablets, andadequate consumption of iron tablets (>4) were associated with higher knowledge of WIFS.CONCLUSION: The knowledge of WIFS was found to be less in adolescent boys. There is a hint ofthe fact that effective execution of the program among its beneficiaries leads to an automatic increasedknowledge of the program, at least among the beneficiaries. Thus, an indirect but significant indirectfinding is that the nationwide WIFS program needs to be put to greater focus among the adolescentboys, apart from its major focus on the female gender among most age groups.

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A cross‑sectional study on assessment of perceived threat to cervical cancer using health belief model among women in a slum area of Kolkata

. Akanksha Yadav; . Madhumita Dobe; . Bobby Paul; . Chandrashekhar Taklikar

Volume 12, Issue 4 , April 2022, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Despite the implementation of various cervical cancer preventive strategies by the Government of India, there is a scarcity of knowledge and consequent low utilization ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Despite the implementation of various cervical cancer preventive strategies by the Government of India, there is a scarcity of knowledge and consequent low utilization of cervical cancer screening services among women in India. This contributes to the burden of cervical cancer among Indian women. This study was conducted to assess perceived threat‑regarding cervical cancer among women and to identify its explanatory factors in a slum area of Kolkata.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional study was conducted among 192 adult women from May to September 2019 in Kolkata. The multistage sampling technique was used using a structured schedule. Perceived threat to cervical cancer was measured using a composite score including perceived susceptibility and perceived severity constructs of the health belief model. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression model using SPSS software version 16.RESULTS: Overall, 22.9% of the participants had satisfactory levels of perceived threat to cervical cancer. Statistically significant association was found between unsatisfactory levels of perceived threat with reproductive age group (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 3.01; P = 0.036), education level up to primary (AOR = 2.89; P = 0.026), and unsatisfactory knowledge (AOR = 2.94; P < 0.001) among respondents. The multivariable regression model was of good fit.CONCLUSION: The study population had very unsatisfactory levels of perceived threat to cervical cancer. Thus, to increase cervical cancer screening uptake among women, it is necessary to tailor robust behavior change communication campaigns to increase the perception of susceptibility and severity, thereby increasing the perception of threat of cervical cancer among women.

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Multiple‑choice questions in assessment: Perceptions of medical students from low‑resource setting

. Venkata Avinash Kumar Vegi; . P. V. Sudhakar; . Devi Madhavi Bhimarasetty; . Kiran Pamarthi; . Lokesh Edara; . L. V. Simhachalam Kutikuppala; . Tarun Kumar Suvvari; . Shubham Anand

Volume 12, Issue 3 , March 2022, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: In curriculum reforms under Competency‑Based Medical Education (CBME) introduced by the National Medical Commission, medical students are recognized as one of the stake ...  Read More BACKGROUND: In curriculum reforms under Competency‑Based Medical Education (CBME) introduced by the National Medical Commission, medical students are recognized as one of the stake holders. The well‑designed multiple‑choice questions (MCQs) help students in assessment as well as promote deep learning. The objective of this study is to assess the perceptions of the Indian medical students towards the examination patterns in their undergraduate curriculum with particular reference to MCQs.MATERIALS AND METHODS: An observational cross‑sectional study was conducted among the medical colleges in India. A total of 7875 students took part in the study. The study instrument was a validated pretested self‑administered questionnaire. The study was conducted as an online survey using the Google Forms platform. Inclusion criteria were students from all professional years as well as interns and those who were willing to participate in the study.RESULTS: For the question of initiation of MCQs as a tool for the assessment, many of the students (46%) expressed that it should start from the 1st MBBS itself. The majority of the students (85%) felt that MCQ oriented preparation will be helpful for MBBS professional (theory and practical) examinations. Most of the students (90.9%) preferred that the MCQs should be concept and case scenario based. To the question of whether the current system of the university theory examinations of essays and short notes be replaced in total with MCQs so that they are more prepared for NEXT and USMLE examination, 65.5% responded with an answer of yes.CONCLUSION: The findings of this study provide input to the regulatory authorities and other stakeholders responsible for designing and implementing the medical curriculum.

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Utilizing “Positive deviance inquiry” to explore factors influencing child health: A qualitative study

. Rupali Sabale; . Barsha Gadapani Pathak; . Rukman M. Manapurath

Volume 11, Issue 8 , September 2021, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: India is a lower middle‑income country with one of the fastest growing economiesin the world. Despite improvements in its economy, it has a high child mortality rate, ...  Read More BACKGROUND: India is a lower middle‑income country with one of the fastest growing economiesin the world. Despite improvements in its economy, it has a high child mortality rate, with significantdifferences in child mortality both between and within different states. In this research, we tend toexplore factors as to how a particular child’s growth is optimal. With this aim, we utilized positivedeviance inquiry to study the factors influencing under five child’s health.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This qualitative study was carried out in Naigoan, an urban healthsetting of metropolitan city with 37 sample size between July 2020 and September 2020. It consistedof total 16 in‑depth interviews (IDIs), 3 focus group Discussion (FGDs), and 7 key informantinterviews (KIIs) which were performed by predesigned guides.RESULTS: Various themes evolved with the interviews; however, triangulation of the concept (fromFGDs, IDIs, and KIIs) occurred with the following themes: satisfaction among mothers for health‑careservices, community participation, family support, and new interventions.CONCLUSION: Mothers’ satisfaction to health‑care services, community participation, family support,and innovations by the health‑care providers are the influencing factors in promoting child’s health.Further research can be conducted to understand the in‑depth understanding of each factor.

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The chunampet community health information management system: A health and demographic surveillance system from a rural South India

. Ariarathinam Newtonraj; . Anil Jacob Purty; . Antony Vincent; . Mani Manikandan; . Joy Bazroy; . Rajesh Kumar Konduru; . Murugan Natesan

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Developed countries have strong health and demographic surveillancesystem (HDSS), whereas there is a dearth of such system in developing countries like India. Indiadepends ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Developed countries have strong health and demographic surveillancesystem (HDSS), whereas there is a dearth of such system in developing countries like India. Indiadepends on national surveys and individual studies for public health information. At present All IndiaInstitute of Medical Sciences – New Delhi HDSS and Vadu HDSS are well established HDSS in India.MATERIALS AND METHODS: We developed a HDSS in a remote rural area of South India andnamed as Community Health Information Management System (CHIMS) This covered 20 villagesaround Rural Health Training Centre – Chunampet. We collected the family and demographicinformation from March 2018 to October 2018. Pregnancy, birth, under‑five and mortality data werecollected once in every 3 months with the help of interns, Medical Social Workers. Data collectiondone using CHIMS Guide and entered in EpiData software. EpiAnalysis, Quantum GeographicInformation System, Dropbox were the other freely available software used in this program.RESULTS: CHIMS HDSS covered 14924 individuals belonging to 4486 households in the surroundingtwenty villages. Population density was 213/km2. CHIMS consumed very limited resources in termsof workforce, materials, and transport. CHIMS database was used as a baseline database for manyother studies. This CHIMS HDSS helped in many publications, postgraduate thesis dissertationsand mainly attracted many extramural research funds from leading government Research Institutesfrom India.CONCLUSION: CHIMS proved to be a robust surveillance system in providing vital public healthinformation about the community and attracted more extramural funds to the institute.

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Attitude towards mobile learning among resident doctors involved in undergraduate medical education at a government medical college in Delhi, India

. Saurav Basu; . Yamini Marimuthu; . Nandini Sharma; . Pragya Sharma; . Navya Gangadharan; . Sahadev Santra

Volume 10, Issue 11 , November 2020, , Pages 1-5

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: There is growing recognition of the role of mobile learning (M‑learning) forundergraduate (UG) academic education and teaching purposes, but teacher attitudes toward itcan ...  Read More BACKGROUND: There is growing recognition of the role of mobile learning (M‑learning) forundergraduate (UG) academic education and teaching purposes, but teacher attitudes toward itcan be variable.OBJECTIVE: To determine the attitudes toward the incorporation of M‑learning methods for UGmedical education among resident doctors at a government medical college in Delhi, India.METHODS: A cross‑sectional study was conducted for 3‑months duration (2019) among 60 finalyear junior and senior resident doctors. The participants were selected from all the preclinical andparaclinical department, and one clinical department selected randomly based on the probabilityproportion to size method. The data was collected using self‑administered instruments including themodified 20‑item M‑learning Perception Scale (MLPS).RESULTS: Social media (36.7%) and instant messaging platforms (85%) were routinely used by theparticipants for exchanging academic (medical) and health‑related information. The mean score for allthe MLPS item responses was >3, indicating positive attitudes toward M‑Learning. The participantsexpressed maximum agreement with the views stating M‑Learning can “supplement traditionalteaching,” was “reliable for personal use,” and “improves the quality of lessons.” The responses ofthose participants having preexisting familiarity with health information and education portals, andthose aware of massive open online courses correlated significantly with higher MLPS scores.CONCLUSION: M‑learning is visualized as an increasingly relevant teaching and learning mediumby early‑career resident doctors involved in UG medical education in India.

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Exploring the educational opportunity and implementation of CARE among dental students in India

. Soni Rajput; . Amit Kumar; . Manjunath P. Puranik; . Namita Shanbhag

Volume 10, Issue 9 , September 2020, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  CONTEXT: Empathy is considered to be backbone of the patient–physician relationship. Theconsultation and relational empathy (CARE) measure is widely used internationally to measureempathy. ...  Read More CONTEXT: Empathy is considered to be backbone of the patient–physician relationship. Theconsultation and relational empathy (CARE) measure is widely used internationally to measureempathy. However, no validated tool is available to gather patient feedback on dentists’ empathyin India.OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to explore the reliability and validity of a CARE measureand to assess the factors influencing CARE score and to determine if there was an associationbetween their CARE score and satisfaction of the patient.SETTING AND DESIGN: A cross‑sectional study was done in dental colleges.SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A questionnaire study was carried out among 100 patients from 6dental colleges in Bangalore using validated CARE measure.STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Internal consistency of items was evaluated by the Cronbach’s alpha,and construct validity was assessed by confirmatory factor analysis. Satisfaction was assessed bya question response on 5‑point Likert scale. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performedwith significance set at 5%.RESULTS: The mean CARE score was 43.80 ± 5.36. Internal reliability was high (Cronbach’salpha: 0.859) and was reduced by the removal of any of 10 items. High corrected item‑total correlationsranged from 0.752 to 0.847. Factor analysis showed a single solution with high item loadings (>0.80).Self‑perception of overall health (odds ratio [OR] = 3.78), relationship with family (OR = 4.61) andfriends (OR = 3.78), and previous dental experience (OR = 16.00) were more likely, whereasdentist‑provided treatment (OR = 0.20), number (OR = 0.07) and dental treatment taken (OR = 0.13),presence of anxiety (OR = 0.03), and fear (OR = 0.05) were less likely to have CARE score. Thesatisfaction of the patient regressed significantly with the relationship with family members (ß = 0.77)and CARE score (ß = 0.21).CONCLUSION: This study confirms the educational opportunity and implementation of CARE indental students. CARE scores among patients varied depending on personal factors and dentaltreatment‑related factors. The satisfaction of the patient was influenced by the relationship withfamily members and CARE scores.

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Exploring educational and promotional opportunities for implementing oral rapid human immunodeficiency virus testing among dentists in India

. R. Yashoda; . Manjunath P. Puranik; . Soni Rajput

Volume 9, Issue 12 , December 2019, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  CONTEXT: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a public health problem in India. Dentist playsan important role in diagnosing since oral lesions are common in HIV‑positive patients ...  Read More CONTEXT: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a public health problem in India. Dentist playsan important role in diagnosing since oral lesions are common in HIV‑positive patients and have anethical responsibility to provide treatment to them.AIMS: This study aims to explore educational and promotional opportunities for implementing oralrapid HIV testing (ORHT) among dentists in Bengaluru, India.SETTINGS AND DESIGN: A cross‑sectional study was conducted among 300 dentists. Dentistswere included from private practice, dental practice in general hospital, and dental teaching/hospitals.SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A 43‑item questionnaire was used to assess demographics, educationalknowledge on HIV and ORHT, attitude toward HIV patients, and willingness to promote ORHT andperceived barriers of performing ORHT.STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: The data were evaluated using SPSS 22. Student’s t‑test,Chi‑square, Pearson correlation, and binary logistics were used keeping P value at 5%.RESULTS: Mean age of the participants was 38.97 ± 7.69 years with equal distribution of genderand practice. Majority were postgraduates (63.0%) and having general practice (56.6%). Althoughtwo‑thirds of the participants belong to high score category, the mean knowledge level is below 50%.Mean score of knowledge was 10.70 ± 2.5. One hundred and thirty (43.3%) dentists were aware ofORHT, and 228 (76%) thought that ORHT was needed in the dental clinic. Dentist having specialtypractice felt more accepting of ORHT (odds ratio = 2.455, 95% confidence interval 1.186–5.463).The lack of knowledge and training was the main barrier (39%) to conduct ORHT.CONCLUSIONS: The level of knowledge of the dentist about HIV/AIDS was acceptable. Majorityof the dentist thought that ORHT is needed in a dental clinic. Overall, there was positive attitudetoward HIV patients and ORHT.

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Quality of life of people living with HIV/AIDS attending antiretroviral clinic in the center of excellence in HIV care in India

. Trinath Sarkar; . Nabarun Karmakar; . Aparajita Dasgupta; . Bibhuti Saha

Volume 9, Issue 11 , November 2019, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  INTRODUCTION: HIV/AIDS is a serious challenge globally. A plethora of morbidities due to cripplingimmune system reduces quality of life (QOL). The advent of highly active antiretroviral ...  Read More INTRODUCTION: HIV/AIDS is a serious challenge globally. A plethora of morbidities due to cripplingimmune system reduces quality of life (QOL). The advent of highly active antiretroviral treatmenthas changed this deadly disease to a chronic manageable illness with focus shifting from fightingvirus to ensuring a good QOL.OBJECTIVE: To assess the QOL among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) and factors influencing,if any in Indian setting.MATERIALS AND METHODS: An institutional‑based cross‑sectional study was carried out among220 PLHA (male >15 years) attending Anti‑Retroviral Therapy Centre of the center of excellencein HIV care in India (Calcutta School of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata) from May 2012 to April 2013.QOL was assessed using WHO‑QOL‑BREF questionnaire from January 2013 to December 2013.Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 16; multivariate logistic regression was computedwith adjusted odds ratio in 95% confidence interval; P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.RESULTS: In this study, all 220 PLHA men participated (response rate 96.5%) where more thanhalf (55.5%) participants rated their QOL as neither poor nor good; only 28.2% replied good.One‑third (38.6%) were dissatisfied while only one‑fifth (19.1%) satisfied and 41.4% mentioned neithersatisfied nor dissatisfied with their health. Mean score ± standard deviation on various domains andfacets of WHOQOL‑BREF were physical health score 56.2 ± 9.8, psychological health 63.1 ± 8.7,social relationship 48.9 ± 14.8, and environmental health 51.3 ± 13.7.CONCLUSION: PLHA had good QOL on psychological, physical, and environmental domain thatreflects better services provided at Calcutta School of Tropical Medicine (CSTM), Kolkata, but theyscored poorly in social relationship domain, which may be suggestive of ineffective social servicesnetwork. This study concludes that increase existing social and emotional support with innovationshould be implemented to improve their QOL.

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Challenges of health promotion and education strategies to prevent cervical cancer in India: A systematic review

. Jissa Vinoda Thulaseedharan; . Kirstin Grosse Frie; . Rengaswamy Sankaranarayanan

Volume 9, Issue 11 , November 2019, , Pages 1-12

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Although there is a reduction in cervical cancer incidence over the years, it keepsthe second position of the most common cancers among females in India. The aim of this ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Although there is a reduction in cervical cancer incidence over the years, it keepsthe second position of the most common cancers among females in India. The aim of this reviewis to understand the challenges of health promotion and education strategies to prevent cervicalcancer in India.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This review is based on 78 studies published during 1993–2017 onthe topics of awareness, attitude, and acceptance toward cervical cancer, screening, and humanpapilloma virus vaccination among Indians. The extracted information was summarized according todifferent populations such as people from different social and community groups, women and menattended clinics, students (nursing/medical/nonmedical), health‑care providers (doctors, nurses, andother health workers), migrated Indians, and cervical cancer patients.RESULTS: The awareness about cervical cancer and its prevention was very poor among womenfrom different communities and the majority had a negative attitude toward screening and vaccinationin general. The health professionals and medical students were more aware of cervical cancer andits prevention compared to the general population. Majority of students irrespective of medical ornonmedical background had a positive attitude toward vaccination. Only a small proportion of womenin the general population were ever screened.CONCLUSIONS: Observations from this review indicate immediate attention of the public healthauthority to take appropriate actions to educate and motivate general population toward cervicalcancer prevention and to improve the facilities to incorporate the much needed preventive and earlydetection interventions in India.

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Knowledge and practices related to the use of personal audio devices and associated health risks among medical students in Delhi

. Saurav Basu; . Suneela Garg; . M. Meghachandra Singh; . Charu Kohli

Volume 9, Issue 2 , February 2019, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Over 1 billion young people globally are at risk of hearing loss and road trafficaccidents due to unsafe listening practices while using personal audio devices  (PADs). ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Over 1 billion young people globally are at risk of hearing loss and road trafficaccidents due to unsafe listening practices while using personal audio devices  (PADs). Rapidproliferation of mobile phones with built‑in music playback facility has rendered nearly universal PADaccess. The objective of this study was to ascertain the knowledge of risks and patterns of usage ofPADs among medical undergraduate students in Delhi, India.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional study was conducted among medical students]aged ≥18  years. Data were collected using a pretested self‑administered questionnaire duringDecember 2016–May 2017. Chi‑square test was used to find an association between the categoricalvariables.RESULTS: A total of 255 male and 133 female students were enrolled (n = 388). Male studentsused PADs with greater frequency and perceived lesser susceptibility to adverse health effects onprolonged PAD usage compared to female students. However, volume preference for PAD usagedid not vary across gender. Self‑reported history of hearing loss and tinnitus which persisted for atleast 3 days in the previous 6 months was 10.6% and 6.4%, respectively. Nearly one in ten studentsagreed to the possibility of crossing the road while listening to music on their PADs.DISCUSSION: Unsafe music‑listening practices using PADs is potentially compromising thehealth and safety of young people in India. Strategic approaches supporting information educationcommunication activities for promoting awareness of hearing and health risks related to prolongedPAD use at loud volumes and enactment of policies restricting undesirable PAD usage threateningroad safety need consideration.

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Awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension among adult population in a rural community of Singur block, Hooghly District, West Bengal

. Nabarun Karmakar; . Kaushik Nag, Indranil Saha; . Ramanathan Parthasarathi; . Manas Patra; . Rabindranath Sinha

Volume 8, Issue 10 , October 2018, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Hypertension is an important treatable public health problem both globally and inIndia with an increasing prevalence significantly in both urban and rural population. It ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Hypertension is an important treatable public health problem both globally and inIndia with an increasing prevalence significantly in both urban and rural population. It is one of theleading causes of adult mortality and morbidity, but poorly controlled hypertension remains a majorhealth problem.OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to find out awareness, treatment, and controlof hypertension among study population and association of hypertension awareness withsociodemographic factors, if any.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted from May 2013 to April 2014 in the ruralcommunity of Singur block, West Bengal. Data were collected with respect to sociodemographiccharacteristics as well as records related to hypertension such as awareness, treatment, and controlof hypertension. Blood pressure (BP) measurement of individuals aged 20 years and above of bothsexes was done. Pearson’s Chi‑square test was performed to find out the association between thecategorical variables. SPSS 19.00 software was used for analysis.RESULTS: Nearly 48.2% of the participants were aware of their elevated BP; 47.1% of the participantswere taking pharmacological treatment, mostly allopathic and only 8.8% had their BP under control.A  statistically significant association was found between age, education, and socioeconomicstatus (per capita income) with awareness of hypertension.CONCLUSION: Lack of awareness of the disease and very low rate of control of hypertensionamong those who were treated became the major issues. These findings emphasize the need fordissemination of knowledge about the disease and counseling of the patients during treatmentcontinuation.

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Oral health of pregnant females in central India: Knowledge, awareness, and present status

. Saxena Payal; . Gupta Saurabh Kumar; . Yadav Sumitra; . Jain Sandhya; . Jain Deshraj; . Kamthan Shivam; . Saxena Parul

Volume 7, Issue 6 , December 2017, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The oral health of pregnant females needs attention, especially in developing countrieslike India where oral checkup and care is not considered to be a part of mandatory ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The oral health of pregnant females needs attention, especially in developing countrieslike India where oral checkup and care is not considered to be a part of mandatory antenatal protocols.OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the oral health status of pregnant females in Central Indiaincluding the assessment of their knowledge, attitude, and awareness about oral health.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study population comprised of 320 pregnant females, and acontrol group consisted of 103 age‑matched nonpregnant females. A cross‑sectional self‑reportedquestionnaire‑based survey and clinical examination was conducted.RESULTS: Out of 320, 192 (60%) pregnant females had some dental problem during pregnancy.Community periodontal index (CPI) score for total pregnant females (2.16) was significantly higherin comparison to control group (1.29). Nearly 72.81% of pregnant females had never attended thedentist. Trimester‑wise comparison showed time‑dependent increase in CPI score. Low educationalstatus, older age, earlier issues, poor hygiene habits, and tobacco use showed a direct effect oncompromised oral health.CONCLUSION: The study highlights the need of interaction between dental practitioners andgynecologists including routine dental checkup during antenatal visits of pregnant females as essential.

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Perceived health discomfort among adolescent girls and related factors in an urban area, South India

. Shabnam Omidvar; . Afsaneh Bakhtiari; . Mojgan Firouzbakht; . Fatemeh Nasiri Amir; . Khyrunnisa Begum

Volume 7, Issue 5 , September and October 2017, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  INTRODUCTION: Adolescence is a period of life that is a bridge between childhood and adulthood.India has the world’s largest adolescent girl’s population, and adolescent ...  Read More INTRODUCTION: Adolescence is a period of life that is a bridge between childhood and adulthood.India has the world’s largest adolescent girl’s population, and adolescent girls are an importantvulnerable group of population. Perceived health is a predictor of morbidity and mortality in adultsand has been an important marker of the health status in population health studies for decades. Theaim of the study was to describe adolescent’s perception of health and association between somefactors such as nutrition status, socioeconomic status (SES), and health status. As their perceptionof health discomfort affects their health behavior and self‑care, therefore, their health status is animportant matter to discuss.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional study was conducted in urban areas from a majorcity in South India. Six hundred and fifty adolescent female students aged 10–19 years formed thestudy population. Standardized self‑reporting questionnaires were used to obtain relevant dataregarding demographic features, SES, and health status. BMI calculated for each individual. Thedata were analyzed using SPSS version 16.RESULTS: About 83.3% of participants ranked their health status as good to excellent. A majorityof the girls had one or more problems related to their menstrual cycles. The most common occurringproblem was headache (45.3%). 47.8% of participants exhibited symptoms of mild insomnia.Strong significant association between nutritional status and SES was found. Higher percentage ofundernourished adolescents belonged to low SES.CONCLUSION: Adolescents are expected to enjoy good health, but this does not seem to be the casein the developing countries like India, where poverty, malnutrition, and repeated infection are rampant.Majority of the problems such as healthy nutrition and self‑care can be solved by community‑basedprograms, health education, and food fortification.

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Awareness and perceptions regarding common cancers among adult population in a rural area of Puducherry, India

. Arumugam Mariappan Veerakumar; . Sitanshu Sekhar Kar

Volume 7, Issue 2 , May and June 2017, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Awareness regarding cancer signs and symptoms and their screening and treatmentmethod was low in India.OBJECTIVES: To assess the awareness level of common cancers, perception ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Awareness regarding cancer signs and symptoms and their screening and treatmentmethod was low in India.OBJECTIVES: To assess the awareness level of common cancers, perception regarding preventionand treatment of common cancers, association between sociodemographic variables with theawareness level of common cancers in the adult population.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional study was conducted among 299 adults from thefield practice areas of Our Rural Health Centre, Puducherry, during April–May 2014. Using systematicrandom sampling, 299 adults were interviewed through a pretested semi‑structured questionnaire.Data were entered into EpiData version 3.1 and were analyzed by Statistical Package for SocialSciences version 20. Chi‑square test was used.RESULTS: Nearly, 64% were in the age group of ≥40 years, the majorities werefemales (56.2%) and 64% were in lower socioeconomic class. Symptoms reported majoritieswere unusual bleeding (41.6%), followed by nagging cough (34.1%). Risk factors reportedmajorities were smoking (65%), chewing tobacco (59%) followed by alcohol use (46.5%).Only 10% reported cancer could be diagnosed early and 27% perceived cancer could bepreventable. Only 6% perceived cancer could be cured fully. The adequate awareness levelregarding lung and oral cancer were 14%, but breast and cervical cancer were <5%. Theyounger age group (<40 years) had more adequate awareness level compared to age group≥40 years (P < 0.05).CONCLUSION: The awareness level of common cancers was very poor. Vigorous health educationprogram should improve the status of early diagnosis and proper treatment for common cancerssuch as oral, breast, and cervical cancer.

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Assessment of nonscholastic abilities and its associated factors among medical students: An exploratory study

. S. Ganesh Kumar; . Sonali Sarkar

Volume 7, Issue 1 , March and April 2017, , Pages 1-5

Abstract

  Background: Nonscholastic abilities among medical students are an important area of concernfor the health professionals. Very few studies had been conducted in the past with regard ...  Read More Background: Nonscholastic abilities among medical students are an important area of concernfor the health professionals. Very few studies had been conducted in the past with regard to it.Objective: This study was an exploratory study aimed to assess the nonscholastic abilities amongmedical students in a medical institution in coastal South India. Materials and Methods: Thisstudy assessed three broad domains of nonscholastic abilities namely personal qualities,interpersonal activities, and communication skills among 106 medical students using astructured questionnaire (27 questions with a total score of 27). The data were analyzed byindependent t‑test and linear regression model. Results: About 41.5% (44) of the subjects weremales and 52.8% (56) of them were belonged to 18–19 years age group. Overall mean score ofnonscholastic abilities was found to be 19.40 (standard deviation = 3.27). Percentile distributionof subjects is at score 17 (25th percentile), 20 (50th percentile), and 22 (75th percentile). Meanpersonal quality domain score was found to be proportionately lesser than other domains ofnonscholastic abilities. Nonscholastic ability score was significantly associated with marksobtained in the previous examination (P = 0.006). However, linear regression analysis revealedthat the presence of family problems (P = 0.005) and alcohol use (P = 0.026) were associatedwith low nonscholastic ability score among medical students. Conclusion: Nonscholasticabilities are still a required need in medical student’s career. Further analytical studies will helpin identifying the in‑depth evaluation of factors associated with it.

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