Journal of Ideas in Health
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Differences, relationships, and risks of using digital technology with depression, anxiety, and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic
Get PDFBackground: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical need for mental health resilience and digital inclusion, particularly among vulnerable populations. To draw lessons from the pandemic for future public health initiatives, this study examined the mental health status of middle-aged and older Indonesians and its associations with sociodemographic factors, comorbidities, grief experiences, and digital technology use.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic (September–October 2021). An online questionnaire collected data on sociodemographic variables, comorbidities, grief experiences, and digital technology usage. Mental health was assessed using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21).
Results: From total 199 enrolled in this study, prevalence rates for depression, anxiety, and stress were 11.1%, 33.7%, and 19.5%, respectively. Depression was associated solely with marital status, while anxiety was influenced by marital status, comorbidities, and the use of digital technology for health information access (p<0.05). Stress was impacted by gender, marital status, comorbidities, and digital technology usage (p<0.05). Multivariate analysis confirmed that infrequent digital technology use predicted higher levels of depression and anxiety (aOR, 2.82, CI 1.14-6.96; 2.36, CI 1.26-4.43; p<0.05). Females, unmarried individuals (aOR, 2.38, CI 1.08-5.25; 2.37, CI 1.11-5.09; p<0.05), and those with comorbidities were at greater risk for mental health challenges (aOR, 3.92, CI 1.43-10.75; p<0.05). However, inadequate digital technology skills were linked to lower stress likelihood (aOR, 0.37, CI 0.144-0.95; p<0.05).
Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of bridging the digital gap and addressing social determinants to strengthen mental health resilience among middle-aged and older adults in Indonesia. Post-pandemic, integrating digital inclusion strategies into public health initiatives is vital for fostering equitable mental health outcomes
Knowledge of antibiotic prescription guidelines among doctors in Ramadi PHC Centers, Iraq
Get PDFBackground: The inappropriate use of antibiotics remains a critical driver of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), posing a significant threat to global public health. Poor adherence to antibiotic prescribing guidelines among healthcare providers contributes to the development and spread of resistant bacterial strains. In Iraq, the extent of this problem, particularly in primary healthcare settings, remains underexplored. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of physicians regarding antibiotic prescription guidelines in primary healthcare centers (PHCs) in Ramadi, Iraq.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between January and March 2024 among 92 doctors working in PHCs in Ramadi. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire assessing sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, and attitudes toward antibiotic use. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26.
Results: Among 92 respondents, 52.2% were female, and the majority had less than two years of experience. Although 77.2% reported that their facility provided antibiotic guidelines, only 46.7% had received regular training. Notably, 98.9% acknowledged that misuse of antibiotics contributes to resistance. However, 28.3% still believed antibiotics were effective against viral infections. Attitudes showed that 65.2% consult infectious disease experts before prescribing broad-spectrum antibiotics.
Conclusion: The study highlights moderate awareness but variable adherence to antibiotic prescription guidelines among doctors in Ramadi PHCs. Interventions focusing on continuous training, access to updated guidelines, and multidisciplinary support are essential to enhance rational antibiotic use
Frequency domain analysis of heart rate variability in response to cold pressor test in young offspring of hypertensive parents
Get PDFBackground: Cardiovascular reactivity to stress was revealed to be a predictor of future cardiovascular risk. A positive family history of hypertension is an important risk factor for the development of hypertension in the children of hypertensive parents. We applied cold pressor test (CPT) to measure heart rate variability (HRV) with the objective to assess the cardiovascular autonomic response to stress.
Methods: A case-control study was conducted between from December 2022 to November 2023 at the department of Physiology, Government Medical College, Kota in India. A total of 70 Cases and 70 Controls underwent to CPT technique to evaluate the autonomic function to stress. Descriptive and bivariate analysis including Mann-Whitney U-and ANOVA tests were performed.
Results: In this study, the mean ± SD values of HRV in control group before CPT was 79 ± 13, during CPT was 81 ± 11 and after CPT was 77 ± 9. The HR in control group was increased during CPT and the level decreased after CPT. The HRV level in control group was statistically significantly different before CPT, during CPT and after CPT, and p= 0.04.
Conclusion: The autonomic measurements were found higher in offspring of hypertensive parents (OHTPs) compared to offspring of normotensive parents (ONHTPs). The offspring of hypertensive parents have higher chances of future development of hypertension than the offspring of normotensive parents
Serological insights and clinical patterns of dengue fever in a tertiary care hospital: a survey-based study
Get PDFBackground: Dengue fever, a vector-borne disease caused by the dengue virus (DENV) and transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, remains a public health concern in India, especially due to its seasonal and geographical variability. The disease manifests with symptoms like fever, myalgia, rashes, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia, affecting various organs. This study aimed to examine the demographic patterns, clinical presentations, and healthcare-seeking behavior of paediatric dengue patients. Additionally, it analyzed dengue positivity trends from 2021 to 2023.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from September to December 2021 among suspected dengue paediatric patients admitted to the Paediatrics department of Autonomous State Medical College Firozabad. Diagnostic tests included Dengue rapid NS1, ELISA NS1 Antigen, and IgM ELISA. Data were analyzed to assess clinical symptoms, healthcare access, and yearly dengue trends.
Results: A total of 6,445 patients were clinically suspected of dengue at the Paediatrics IPD, Autonomous State Medical College, Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh. Among them, 386 were confirmed dengue-positive by rapid card, NS1 antigen, or IgM ELISA tests. The highest number of suspected cases (43.17%) was observed in school-going children (6–12 years). Males (55.47%) were more affected than females (44.53%), with nearly equal distribution between rural and urban areas. Platelet counts varied widely, with 31.73% having counts between 50,000–100,000. Fever with myalgia (75.65%) was the most common symptom. Dengue positivity fluctuated across years, with the highest rate in 2021 (193/1147 cases), followed by declines in 2022 and 2023.
Conclusion: Dengue fever shows a variable trend in incidence, with significant impact from healthcare access and public awareness. Improving awareness and timely diagnosis could help mitigate the severity of cases in future outbreaks
Artificial intelligence in the Iraqi health system: challenges, opportunities, and pathways towards universal health coverage
Get PDFBackground: Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly recognized as a transformative tool in healthcare management. In Iraq, the potential of AI remains underexplored due to systemic, infrastructural, and professional challenges. This narrative review explores the challenges, problems, and potential solutions of using AI to manage and control Iraq’s health system, with a particular focus on universal health coverage (UHC).
Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for studies published between 2015 and 2025, complemented by WHO and Iraqi Ministry of Health reports.
Results: The findings highlight barriers including capacity building, availability and accessibility of data, professional preparedness, and legal frameworks. Recent innovations and policy initiatives demonstrate opportunities for integration of AI to strengthen health service delivery and monitoring.
Conclusion: AI adoption in Iraq requires multi-level reforms involving workforce training, legal regulation, robust digital infrastructure, and alignment with UHC objectives. These measures can enhance equity, efficiency, and resilience in Iraq’s health system
Visual rating of GCA and MTA scoring with deep white matter hyperintensities in relation to age and cognitive value:
Get PDFBackground: The cognitive dysfunction disorders are nowadays represented great health, social, and economic burden globally. Magnetic resonance imaging plays a major role in the evaluation of these disorders. This study aims to assess the relationship between the visual rating scale of global cerebral atrophy (GCA) & medial temporal lobe atrophy (MTA) scoring with age, white matter hyper-intensities, and cognitive value.
Methods: A cross-sectional study carried out from 1st of November 2022 to 28th of February 2023 at the Magnetic Resonance Imaging unit of the Radiology department in Baghdad Teaching Hospital at Medical Complex in Baghdad city, Iraq. Sixty patients aged over 45 years with suspected cognitive abnormalities were included, while younger patients, those with territorial infarction, watershed infarction, or unwillingness to participate were excluded. Data were collected through a semi-structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic factors, chronic illnesses, cognitive status, MRI findings, and visual rating scales (Fazekas, Global Cortical Atrophy [GCA], and Medial Temporal Lobe Atrophy [MTA]). MRI was performed using a 1.5T Philips Achieva Nova scanner, and cognitive assessment was conducted with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE).
Results: The mean age of participants was 62.4 ± 8.8 years, with males slightly predominating (55%). Chronic diseases were common, particularly hypertension (57.2%). Cognitive assessment revealed 51.7% with normal cognition, 18.3% with mild cognitive impairment, and 30% with dementia. Higher Fazekas, GCA, and MTA scores were significantly associated with dementia (p<0.05). MTA scores were significantly elevated in Alzheimer’s disease (p<0.001), while vascular etiologies were strongly associated with higher GCA, Fazekas, and MTA scores (p<0.05). Non-strategic lacunar ischemia showed higher Fazekas scores compared to strategic types (p=0.006). Increasing age was significantly linked to dementia, vascular pathology, and higher atrophy scores.
Conclusion: These findings suggest a strong correlation between structural brain changes observed on MRI and cognitive decline, highlighting the importance of visual rating scales in clinical assessment
Obstructed kidney due to prolapsed ischemic ureterocele in old age female: a case report
Get PDFBackground: Ureteroceles are congenital dilations of the distal ureter, usually diagnosed in childhood. Adult presentations are uncommon, and ischemic prolapse through the urethra is exceedingly rare, particularly in elderly women. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent obstruction, infection, or renal impairment.
Case presentation: A 72-year-old woman presented with severe right loin pain, vomiting, and a recent episode of gross hematuria. Imaging showed right hydronephrosis and a dilated ureter without calculi. A necrotic cystic mass protruding from the urethra was discovered during cystoscopy, consistent with an ischemic prolapsed ureterocele. Aspiration allowed reduction of the mass into the bladder. Endoscopic deroofing of the right ureterocele was performed using a monopolar TUR system, followed by bilateral ureteroscopy, which confirmed unobstructed ureters. The patient recovered well, with normalization of renal function and complete resolution of hydronephrosis. Follow-up cystography and flexible cystoscopy at three months showed no residual ureterocele or vesicoureteral reflux.
Conclusion: Ischemic prolapsed ureterocele in adults is exceptionally rare. Endoscopic deroofing is a safe and effective treatment, even in elderly patients, with favorable functional outcomes
Unveiling the facilitators and barriers of adopting healthy diets among Indonesian teenagers during covid-19 pandemic
Get PDFBackground: The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted shifts in dietary habits among Indonesian teenagers, with some embracing healthier choices while others succumb to unhealthy options, especially during confinement. Identifying the factors influencing these dietary changes is essential for crafting effective interventions to promote better nutrition during this challenging time. This study aimed to determine the factors facilitating teenagers\u27 shift to healthy, well-balanced diets.
Methods: A cross-sectional study enrolled 396 teenagers aged 15-17 in Surabaya and Sidoarjo, Indonesia was conducted in the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed using an online survey platform. Nutrition literacy was assessed through health literacy measures related to adolescents\u27 nutrition and diet. Predictors of the outcome were determined by logistic regression analysis.
Results: The results showed low economic status, comorbidities, and COVID-19 modules significantly predicted the shift to healthy diets. After adjusted analysis, only low economic levels (OR 0.30, 95% CI [0.13-0.70], p<0.05) and comorbidities (OR 0.33, 95% CI [0.12-0.93], p<0.05) were independent barriers against teenagers shifting to healthy diets, while choosing food without preservatives (OR 2.22, 95% CI [1.18-4.16], p<0.05) and maintaining body weight (OR 3.04, 95% CI [1.79-5.16], p<0.05) independently facilitated it.
Conclusion: The strategic actions aimed at improving dietary practices and nutrition literacy in teenagers should be designed to narrow the socioeconomic gap
Ectoparasites and Hemoparasites of the Silvery Mole Rats (Heliophobius Argentiocinereus Emini) In Morogoro Region, Tanzania
Get PDFBackground: The silvery mole rat (Heliophobius Argentiocinereus Emini) is a subterranean rodent widely distributed across Sub-Saharan Africa and exploited as a protein source in some communities. Despite this, limited data exist on ectoparasite and hemoparasite infections in this species in Tanzania. This study aims to determine the prevalence of hemoparasites in silvery mole rats and to identify their potential arthropod vectors in the Morogoro region of Tanzania.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Mvomero and Morogoro districts, Tanzania, between March and June 2023. A total of 137 silvery mole rats were captured through manual excavation. Ectoparasites were collected from animal fur and identified morphologically using taxonomic keys. Blood samples were obtained directly from the heart, and smears were prepared, stained with Giemsa, and microscopically examined for hemoparasites. Statistical analysis was performed to assess associations between host factors, ectoparasite infestation, and hemoparasite infection.
Results: Of the 137 captured mole rats, 65% (n=89) were females and 86.7% (n=120) were adults. The overall prevalence of ectoparasitism was 71.5% (98/137). A total of 1,503 ectoparasites were recovered, dominated by Androlaelaps spp. (93.15%, n=1400), followed by Echinolaelaps echidinus (6.19%, n=93), and Haemaphysalis spp. ticks (0.67%, n=10). Hemoparasites were detected in 29.2% (40/137) of hosts, including Anaplasma spp. (25.5%) and Babesia spp. (16.8%). Coinfections with both parasites occurred in 13.1% of individuals. Adult mole rats had significantly higher odds of hemoparasite infection (OR = 3.23, 95% CI: 1.15–9.11, p = 0.04). Tick infestation was strongly associated with Babesia spp. (χ² = 11.91, OR = 15.56, p < 0.001) and Anaplasma spp. (χ² = 5.82, OR = 8.3, p = 0.01).
Conclusion: This study demonstrates a high prevalence of ectoparasites and hemoparasites among silvery mole rats in the Morogoro region. The dominance of mite infestations and significant associations between ticks and blood parasites highlight the potential role of mole rats as reservoirs of zoonotic pathogens. Further molecular studies are warranted to characterize these parasites and evaluate their public health implications
Efficacy of vitamin B6 plus magnesium in enhancing cognitive and language functions in preschool children with autism spectrum disorder and well-controlled epilepsy: a double-blind placebo-controlled study
Get PDFBackground: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children often involves deficits in communication, social interaction, and behavioral regulation. Emerging evidence suggests that vitamin B6 and magnesium supplementation may aid in alleviating these symptoms. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of vitamin B6 plus magnesium in improving social, nonverbal communication, speech, and language skills in preschool children with ASD and well-controlled epilepsy.
Methods: A double-blind placebo-controlled trial was conducted involving 50 children under 14 years diagnosed with ASD based on CARS-2 criteria. Participants were randomly assigned to either receive vitamin B6 plus magnesium (n=25) or a placebo (n=25) for 120 days. Clinical outcomes were evaluated weekly and analyzed using SPSS v19.
Results: The intervention group showed significant improvement in social skills (Mean = 11.10, SD = 0.47, p = 0.0103), nonverbal communication (Mean = 10.67, SD = 0.59, p = 0.0024), and speech and language skills (Mean = 10.87, SD = 0.47, p = 0.0030) compared to the placebo group.
Conclusion: Vitamin B6 plus magnesium significantly improves cognitive and language functions in children with ASD and well-controlled epilepsy