European Journal of Medical and Health Research
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Knowledge and Attitude Toward Organ Donation Community Based Study Comparing Medical and Non-Medical Student Population
Get PDFBackground: Organ transplantation remains the optimal therapeutic modality for patients suffering from end-stage organ failure. In Iraq, despite the challenges posed by limited healthcare infrastructure, public awareness and perception of organ donation significantly influence the success and development of organ transplantation programs. Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs regarding organ donation among medical and non-medical students in Iraq, and to identify the key factors influencing individual preferences toward organ donation. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a convenience sampling technique from October 2020. A total of 200 students participated, comprising 150 medical students from Baghdad, Al-Kindy, and Al- Mustansiriyah Colleges of Medicine, and 50 non-medical students from the University of Technology and Al-Iraqi University (Engineering Department). Data were collected using a structured, online self-administered questionnaire. Results: Among the participants, 72.5% were female, and 96.5% were Muslim. Awareness of organ donation during life was higher among medical students (90.7%) compared to non-medical students (84%). Knowledge of brain death was reported by 78% of participants, with no significant difference between groups (p = 0.115). A total of 57% considered brain death equivalent to actual death, and 61.5% supported organ donation following brain death. Religious acceptance of donation was believed by 53.5% of respondents. While 42% believed donation could negatively affect health, 93% expressed willingness to donate to a family member, and 46% were willing to donate a kidney. Conclusion: Medical students demonstrated relatively good awareness of organ donation; however, structured educational interventions are warranted to enhance knowledge, particularly on cadaveric donation, across all academic disciplines
Prune Belly Syndrome Associated with Congenital Right Bronchogenic Cyst in a Term Female Neonate in Calabar, Cross Rivers State, Southern Nigeria: A Case Report
Get PDFBackground: Prune Belly Syndrome (PBS), commonly found in males, is characterised by abdominal muscle aplasia/hypoplasia, urological abnormalities, and bilateral cryptorchidism. Pulmonary hypoplasia is the predominant pulmonary abnormality in PBS. Because of its rarity and loco-regional lack of data, we report a case of a term female neonate with prune belly syndrome and bronchogenic cysts. Case presentation: A three-day-old female neonate of the Efik ethnic group in Nigeria presented with respiratory distress noticed 12 hours after birth. The child was noted to have a prune-like abdomen and diagnosed with PBS (category 3) and Bronchogenic cyst, making it an interesting clinical scenario. Unfortunately, the baby passed away on the 6th day of life due to respiratory compromise, 16 hours after undergoing cyst excision surgery. Conclusion: Although pulmonary hypoplasia is the most commonly documented pulmonary abnormality (58%), limited data on pulmonary abnormalities in PBS hampers evidence-based documentation. Adopting a multidisciplinary approach in the management of patients with PBS is essential. Genetic counselling and family support are crucial in cases where there is no family history of genetic or congenital anomalies, such as the index case. Early diagnosis and close monitoring for potential complications are recommended for better outcomes
Clinical Profile and Radiological Correlation of Recurrent Stroke
Get PDFBackground: Recurrent stroke is a new cerebrovascular event which occurs after the stabilization of the previous stroke. There is a wide range of clinical presentations and no significant difference between the first and recurrent strokes regarding the type of stroke. After stroke, survivors tend to focus on rehabilitation and recovery but preventing another stroke is a key concern. Systemic evaluation of recurrent stroke cases can help to identify risk factors, etiologies to choose the appropriate treatment and to reduce the risk of recurrence. Methods and materials: It was a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out at medicine and neuromedicine department of Dhaka Medical College and Hospital for 6 months, where a total of 100 patients were enrolled. Data was collected in questionnaire by interview who gave consent and fulfilled inclusion criteria. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software. Result: Our study revealed that out of 100 patients, 72% were male and 28% were female, mean age 57.45 years, most were from 60-69 age group (44%).About 32% had completed higher secondary education and 46% belongs to lower middle class family. Most of the event occurred during daytime (44%) and about 47% respondents were sedentary workers. In present study,78% respondents suffered from ischaemic stroke and rest of them (22%) had haemorrhagic stroke. About 66 (66%) of them presented with hypertension,42(42%) with diabetes mellitus,46(46%) had dyslipidaemia and 35(35%) presented with heart diseases .Among the patient with heart diseases ,majority had IHD (63%,22),followed by arrhythmia(57%,20), valvular heart disease(54%,19) and congestive heart failure(CHF)(17%,6).Most of them(62%) were smoker,22% chewed betel nuts,12% chewed tobacco and 8% were alcoholic .Majority of the respondents presented with weakness of half of the body(68%) and GCS was more than 10 in 52 ischaemic stroke cases and 8 haemorrhagic stroke cases. In ischaemic stroke, middle cerebral artery(MCA) was involved in 71% cases, followed by posterior cerebral artery(PCA)(16%),anterior cerebral artery(8%), basilar artery(5%) and in haemorrhagic stroke, affected regions were basal ganglia, internal capsule and thalamus (55%,12),followed by temporo-parietal region(36%,8) and posterior fossa(9%,2). Conclusion: Present study finds out stroke type, risk factors, etiologies and radiological findings of recurrent stroke. A better understanding of the risk factors, etiologies could lead a better secondary prevention and thus will limit the future stroke burden in society
Breast Cancer Liver Metastasis: A Case Report
Get PDFSurgical resection is increasingly recognised as an effective strategy for managing breast cancer liver metastases (BCLM), although standardised criteria for patient selection remain undefined. When integrated into a multidisciplinary therapeutic approach, resection is intended to improve survival outcomes. Additionally, the use of the Pringle manoeuvre and the degree of tumour differentiation appear to be key prognostic factors influencing post-surgical outcomes. This article reports the case of a 50-year-old female oncology patient who previously underwent a lumpectomy for a breast tumour and subsequently presented with liver metastasis
Blockchain for Public Health: Securing Data and Empowering Communities
Get PDFBlockchain technology, with its inherent security, transparency, and immutability, presents a novel approach to addressing critical challenges in public health. This paper explores the potential of blockchain to revolutionize data management, enhance disease surveillance, and empower communities in public health initiatives. We examine how blockchain can secure sensitive health data, facilitate interoperability among disparate systems, and enable decentralized data sharing for research and interventions. Furthermore, we discuss the applications of blockchain in supply chain management for pharmaceuticals, vaccine distribution, and the creation of secure digital identities for individuals. By leveraging blockchain's distributed ledger technology, we can foster trust, improve data integrity, and promote community engagement in public health, ultimately leading to more effective and equitable health outcomes
Wilkie Syndrome Complicating Peptic Ulcer-Related Stenosis: A Unique Clinical Case
Get PDFPeptic ulcers are a leading cause of gastric outlet obstruction, with endoscopic treatment combined with medical therapy for Helicobacter pylori infection being the gold standard. Weight loss is one of the major complications of gastric outlet obstruction. Authors presented the case of a patient who experienced chronic gastric pain, vomiting and weight loss. The initial oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) revealed peptic ulcer stenosis and the presence of H. pylori. Although medical treatment was initiated, there was no significant improvement. Further investigation using an abdominal CT scan revealed the development of superior mesenteric artery syndrome, which required surgical intervention. This case highlights the potential complications of H. pylori infection, particularly weight loss, and emphasizes the possibility of progression to superior mesenteric artery syndrome
Low-Grade Uterine Adenosarcoma in a Postmenopausal Patient: A Case Report and Literature Review
Get PDFLow-grade uterine adenosarcoma is a rare neoplasm accounting for 5.5–9 % of all uterine sarcomas. First described by Clement and Scully in 1974, it is characterized by benign endometrial glands combined with a low-grade malignant mesenchymal stroma. We report the case of a 77-year-old woman without known risk factors (endometriosis, hormonal therapy, or pelvic radiotherapy) who presented with intermittent metrorrhagia. Pelvic ultrasound and clinical examination revealed a uterine mass, and diagnostic hysteroscopy with polypectomy confirmed low-grade adenosarcoma (5 mitoses per 10 high-power fields, moderate stromal invasion). Pelvic MRI demonstrated a well-circumscribed lesion measuring 54 × 68 × 100 mm without deep myometrial invasion or dissemination. The patient underwent total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy; the surgical specimen confirmed FIGO stage IB disease with positive estrogen and progesterone receptors. Following an uneventful postoperative course and a negative chest CT, adjuvant therapy with anastrozole 1 mg daily was initiated, and follow-up was scheduled every three months clinically and every six months with pelvic imaging. This case underscores the importance of precise histopathological diagnosis, long-term surveillance, and the potential benefit of adjuvant hormone therapy in the absence of sarcomatous overgrowth
Clearer Map Flow of Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis: A Concise Review
Get PDFThis review critically synthesizes recent literature on Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH), a systemic non-inflammatory disease of the axial skeleton. Beyond summarizing current knowledge, it evaluates the strengths and limitations of emerging research across six key domains: pathophysiology and etiology, clinical presentation and diagnosis, management and treatment, prognosis and outcomes, advances in research, and patient education. While molecular biology and imaging advances have deepened our understanding, significant gaps remain in early diagnosis, effective therapy, and patient-centered care. The review highlights areas of controversy, particularly the role of inflammation, and provides a forward-looking perspective on translational opportunities and clinical applications
Determination of Carotenoid and Beta-Carotene Content in Dunaliella Microalgae Powder
Get PDFNowadays, human demand for natural antioxidants is increasing, gradually replacing synthetic antioxidants. Dunaliella microalgae is an important source of carotenoid production, with beta-carotene accumulating at high concentrations and having practical applications in nutrition, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Raw powder from D. bardawil and D. salina algae cultivated in Vietnam needs to be characterized in terms of morphological features, carotenoid, and beta-carotene content before application in production and commercial use. Morphological characteristics of microalgae powder were evaluated through naked eye observation and optical microscopy. The UV-Vis method was used to assess total carotenoid content in hexane extract. Beta-carotene quantification was performed using HPLC with a gradient method, using a mobile phase of Dichloromethane: Acetonitrile: Methanol (40:45:15). Results showed that D. bardawil and D. salina powders were homogeneous, with a yellow color and intact cells. Total carotenoid accumulation was high, with D. bardawil (3.306 mg/g) significantly higher than D. salina (1.454 mg/g) (p < 0.05). HPLC conditions for beta-carotene analysis were reliable, with a retention time of 11.942 minutes, tail factor (Tf) < 2, and theoretical plate number > 3000. Beta-carotene content was significantly higher in D. bardawil (0.172 mg/g) compared to D. salina (0.117 mg/g) (p < 0.05). Therefore, raw powder from D. bardawil and D. salina algae are suitable for beta-carotene production for applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and commercial products
Bladder Cancer: Pattern of Incidence in Iraq during 2022
Get PDFBackground: Bladder cancer ranks among the most common malignancies globally, with significant variations in incidence due to environmental and lifestyle factors. Iraq presents a unique epidemiological context for bladder cancer, impacted by environmental pollutants, occupational risks, and high tobacco use, particularly among males. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of bladder cancer incidence patterns across Iraq's governorates in 2022, focusing on malignancy type, age-related trends, and regional disparities. Aim: This study aims to identify the patterns of bladder cancer incidence in Iraq, examining the influence of demographic factors (age, gender) and geographical variations on cancer distribution. Method: A descriptive study was conducted using data from the Iraqi Ministry of Health’s Surveillance Department. Data from cancer registries were cross-verified with records from Iraqi cancer centers. Bladder cancer cases were categorized by tumor site, morphology, age, and governorate, following the WHO's ICD-Oncology classifications. The data were analyzed to determine incidence rates per 100,000 populations for each category. Results: Transitional Cell Carcinoma (TCC) was the predominant type, comprising 95.3% of male cases and 91.5% of female cases. Incidence rates increased markedly with age, especially in males, peaking in the 75-79 age group. Geographic analysis revealed that southern governorates, including Karbala and Wasit, exhibited the highest incidence rates, while northern regions reported lower rates. These regional disparities may be attributed to variations in industrial exposure, environmental pollutants, and access to healthcare. Conclusion: Bladder cancer incidence in Iraq shows a predominance of TCC, with higher rates among males and a notable increase in older age groups. Geographic disparities highlight the influence of environmental and occupational factors, particularly in southern Iraq. These findings underscore the need for targeted prevention and early detection strategies, particularly in high-incidence areas and among at-risk populations