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Screening and donor awareness of hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
No full textGlobally, blood donations carry the risk of transmitting infectious diseases if not properly screened, necessitating rigorous protocols to detect transfusion-transmitted infections such as hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and HIV. Our study focused on assessing the frequencies of HBV, HCV, and HIV, as well as donor awareness of these infections in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. This observational study, which was conducted over two months at Nowshera Medical College, involved 100 volunteer blood donors and used a close-ended questionnaire to gather data on both diagnostic results and awareness. The results indicated that HBV was present in 4% of the donors, HCV was present in 2%, and no HIV was detected. Awareness levels varied, with 52% of donors aware of HBV transmission through blood transfusions, 54% recognizing the lack of a vaccine for HCV, and 74% having a greater awareness of HIV affecting the immune system. This study highlights significant gaps in donor knowledge, especially regarding transmission and prevention. These findings underscore the need for enhanced screening and donor education to reduce the risk of infections from blood transfusions. Improved public health strategies and policies are necessary to ensure the safety of the blood supply, ultimately improving health outcomes in the region. This study advocates for targeted interventions that can significantly mitigate transfusion-related risks and foster a safer blood donation environment
Surgical outcomes of patients with corrosive ingestion: a retrospective analysis
No full textCorrosive ingestion can cause severe complications, including perforation, stricture, and fistula, which often require surgical intervention to prevent further damage. This retrospective observational study analyzed surgical outcomes and gender differences in ingestion types (accidental vs. suicidal) and causative substances (acid, alkali, ammonia, detergent, or mixed) among 99 patients at a tertiary care hospital in Rawalpindi from January 2002 to January 2024. The average age of the patients was 30.36 ± 10.18 years, with 61.62% female patients and 38.38% male patients. Accidental ingestion was more common in males (94.74%), whereas suicidal ingestion was more common in females (21.31%, p = 0.026). Mixed substances were the most common substances ingested, particularly among females (60.66%, p = 0.048). All patients underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, and diagnostic laparoscopy or feeding jejunostomy was the most common surgical procedure (57.58%). The esophagus (68.69%) was the most affected site. Surgical site infections (16.16%) and strictures (11.11%) were the most frequent complications, with a mortality rate of 4.04%. Our study concluded that timely surgical management could reduce the risk of complications and enhance patient outcomes. Corrosive ingestion often affects multiple areas of the gastrointestinal tract that require several surgical interventions. In certain cases, complex procedures, such as colon interposition and total laryngopharyngoesophagectomy (TLPO), which require skilled surgeons as well as advanced management centers, are performed to manage corrosive injuries. Therefore, improving these patients’ outcomes via interventions focused on training in complex surgical procedures is crucial. However, more research is needed to identify the most effective approaches for the surgical management of corrosive ingestion
Mental health and stigmata: childhood learning and strabismus
No full textStrabismus (crossed eyes/squint) is a common eye condition among children. Approximately 5 in every 100 children aged five years are likely to suffer from a squint. The stigmatization of a child's psychology by strabismus is significant, as it affects their lives socially and professionally. Children with strabismus may face marginalization and social exclusion due to their physical appearance and may also experience difficulties in learning and socializing. It has become increasingly necessary to fully understand the emotional and psychological impacts of strabismus in children and to address the challenges faced by them
Effects of mattress firmness and usage duration on low back pain: a hospital-based study from Lahore
No full textLow back pain (LBP) is a prevalent global health issue that causes significant discomfort and disability. Previous research highlights the crucial role of mattress quality, particularly firmness and usage duration, in LBP management. This study aimed to examine sociodemographic and mattress usage characteristics, assessing LBP severity, comparing pain across different mattress firmness levels, and analyzing the correlation between mattress usage duration and LBP severity. This exploratory study was conducted at Hussain Memorial Hospital, Lahore, over two months in 2023. Using the purposive sampling method, this study recruited 130 male and female patients, aged 18 to 60 years, diagnosed with mechanical back pain through a positive Kemp test and who have been using the same mattress for over a year. The data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a questionnaire that incorporated the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Modified Oswestry Disability Index (MODI). Analysis was performed using SPSS 25.00, with significance set at p-value ≤ 0.05. Most of the patients reported moderate disability (78.46%) and preferred medium mattress firmness (29.23%), with an average mattress usage of 7.18 ± 3.49 years. Kruskal‒Wallis tests revealed significant differences in LBP severity across mattress firmness levels (p < 0.001), with medium firmness associated with less pain. A positive correlation was found between mattress use duration and LBP severity, with r = 0.250 (p = 0.004). This study established a link between mattress firmness and LBP severity, with medium firmness potentially offering optimal relief. Additionally, a correlation exists between extended mattress usage and heightened LBP symptoms, suggesting that the age of a mattress may aggravate LBP. These insights highlight the importance of selecting a mattress by carefully considering both its firmness and usage duration as key factors in effective LBP management
Consumption and knowledge of dietary supplements among young adult women in Lahore, Pakistan
No full textDietary supplements containing essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and herbs are widely used to enhance overall nutrition and health. This study aimed to assess the consumption patterns and knowledge of dietary supplements among young adult women in Lahore, Pakistan. This cross-sectional study was conducted over three months at Lahore College for Women University; young adult women aged 18 to 25 years who were enrolled in any bachelor’s degree program were recruited using a convenience sampling technique. The following data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire: demographic information, supplement usage, and perceptions. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0 to calculate frequencies and percentages. Of the 333 questionnaires distributed, 303 were returned, resulting in a response rate of 90.99%. The mean age of the 303 participants was 23.06 ± 0.058 years, with 98.35% being unmarried. Most participants reported a monthly household income between 50,001 and 75,000 PKR (73.59%) and were predominantly in their fourth (44.22%) or fifth year (43.56%) of study, mainly in health sciences disciplines (72.28%). A majority (83.80%) reported taking dietary supplements, primarily for health enhancement (58.66%), improving bone and joint health (32.68%), and increasing muscle mass (37.01%). Supplements were mostly purchased from pharmacies (85.04%) and taken under the advice of doctors or nutritionists (74.80%). Common supplements included vitamins, calcium, and multivitamins, with most participants taking one supplement at a time (84.25%) and consuming them daily (35.04%) or 2-3 times per week (27.95%). Notably, 72.44% perceived benefits from taking supplements, and 49.61% intended to repurchase them. Concerns about potential side effects or interactions were also substantial (58.66%). This study revealed that young adult women in Pakistan frequently use dietary supplements for various health benefits, primarily by purchasing them from pharmacies and following healthcare professional advice. Despite positive perceptions and intentions to repurchase, concerns about safety and interactions remain
Assessment of musculoskeletal disorders and contributing factors in professional drivers
No full textMusculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the leading global cause of disability and pose a significant public health issue, particularly among professional drivers who are prone to such conditions due to prolonged sitting, poor posture, and exposure to whole-body vibrations. The objectives of this study are to assess the demographic, general, lifestyle, and wellness profiles of professional drivers, gauge their work environment characteristics, and measure the proportion of musculoskeletal symptoms using the modified Nordic questionnaire. This descriptive study collected data from 67 professional drivers at major bus stands in Lahore using a structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. The results revealed that the drivers, predominantly middle-aged (average age 39.72 ± 9.53 years) and married (95.52%), reported limited formal education (average 7.56 ± 3.91 years). Lifestyle assessments indicated high rates of smoking (61.19%) and frequent consumption of soft drinks (88.06%). In their work environment, most drivers (68.66%) worked daytime shifts, and a significant proportion (56.72%) experienced vibration exposure. The most frequently reported musculoskeletal symptoms were in the lower back (58.21% in the past 12 months, 43.28% in the past 7 days) and hips/thighs (61.19% in the past 12 months), impacting their ability to work. These findings highlight the critical need for targeted ergonomic and lifestyle interventions to improve the occupational health and safety of drivers, potentially reducing musculoskeletal discomfort and enhancing overall well-being and productivity
To breathe or not to breathe: implications of hazardous air quality
No full textClimate change has affected all living beings and has become a global issue. Over the years, environmental pollution has increased drastically. Air pollution is one of the leading causes of many health issues, specifically respiratory problems. The disease spectrum, from allergies to cancers, is the cause of the economic burden that impacts the countries' welfare. Unhealthy living and ineffective pollution control policies need to be addressed. The role of the government and public health sector is to change their approach to ensure a healthy, clean environment and reduce carbon and other pollutants, thus improving the air quality for better living
Students' perception of smartphones as a new modality to enhance health sciences knowledge
No full textSmartphones are increasingly being used by health sciences students as a popular and effective learning tool, globally replacing traditional learning methods with advanced e-learning techniques. This study aimed to explore students' perception of smartphones as a new modality to enhance health science knowledge and whether this technology could assist them in accomplishing their educational goals. This descriptive cross-sectional study recruited 222 undergraduate health sciences students using a convenience sampling technique and used Delone and Mclean's information systems (IS) success model to develop variables for five IS success constructs. The study results showed that most participants were females (70.27%), and students used smartphones for multiple purposes, with accessing learning content (weighted average = 4.58), text messaging services (weighted average = 4.48), and internet-based text messaging services (weighted average = 4.36) being the most reported reasons. Students' perceptions regarding most smartphone usage for education included educational purposes and understanding lectures/revising concepts. Using smartphones as an educational aid influenced students' perceptions of system quality, information quality, system importance, usefulness, and satisfaction. Our study highlights the significant role of smartphones in the daily lives of health sciences students and their positive attitudes toward using them as a tool for enhancing their knowledge. Students use smartphones to access learning content and other online resources, and our findings suggest that educators should incorporate them into the educational curriculum. Notably, our study found that students' average daily smartphone usage varied widely. These findings have significant implications for the educational system, as smartphones have become an essential part of the educational experience for health sciences students. However, future studies could investigate the potential negative effects of smartphone usage on academic performance and explore the correlation between smartphone usage and academic outcomes to better understand the impact of smartphones on education
Artificial intelligence and the pharmaceutical industry: transforming research, development, and manufacturing
No full textArtificial intelligence (AI) with the amalgamation of information technology is an important driver of transformation in every field of life, including the pharmaceutical industry. From the early stages of drug discovery, extraction, and formulation, followed by improvement and precision in manufacturing, AI has helped the pharmaceutical industry work more effectively and efficiently in the production of the highest-quality products. Machine learning (ML) algorithms can easily analyze large datasets in no time to identify potential pharmaceutically effective drugs, characteristics of experiments, parameters of testing, optimize clinical trial designs, and monitor pharmaceutical production processes in real time. These operations significantly reduce drug development time, costs, and effort; ease complexities; and improve safety and effectiveness, ultimately providing a competitive edge to many pharmaceutical companies across the globe. However, the incorporation of AI into pharmaceutical systems also presents significant challenges; for example, many pharmaceutical companies face issues with inconsistent or incomplete data, a lack of domain-specific technical human resources, and uncertain, debatable ethical concerns, particularly related to privacy, algorithmic fairness, and transparency in decision-making. The benefits and advantages of using AI may remain limited until pharmaceutical companies invest in high-quality data infrastructure, interdisciplinary training of professionals, and clear regulatory frameworks for procedures. This calls for vital collaboration and joint ventures among pharmaceutical companies, manufacturing units, research institutions, technology providers, informational technology houses, drug regulatory bodies, and academia to transform the pharmaceutical landscape by making drug development faster, cheaper, safer and more responsive to global health needs
Therapeutic effects of kaempferol, quercetin and quinoa seed extract on high-fructose diet-induced hepatic and pancreatic alterations in diabetic rats
No full textExcess fructose intake is a main contributor to metabolic syndrome, which causes dyslipidemia, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and insulin resistance. The present study examined the protective effects of quercetin, quinoa seed extract (QSE), and kaempferol against high-fructose diet (HFrD)-induced pancreatic and hepatic alterations in Wistar albino rats. Thirty rats were divided into six groups (n = 5, each group consisted of 5 rats): the control group, HFrD + metformin group, HFrD + kaempferol group, HFrD + quercetin group, and HFrD + QSE group. Treatments were administered orally for 21 days following induction with 61% fructose. Biochemical function tests were performed for hemoglobin (Hb) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, and histopathological analyses of hepatic and pancreatic architecture were performed. The results showed that HFrD intake significantly increased ALT levels and body weight, accompanied by hepatocellular degeneration and inflammatory changes in pancreatic β-cells. Kaempferol, quercetin, and QSE administration significantly increased the Hb concentration, decreased ALT activity, and reduced vacuolar degeneration and hepatic necrosis. Kaempferol and quercetin resulted in nearly normal hepatocyte morphology among the test compounds, while QSE resulted in the greatest decrease in net weight gain. In the treated groups, pancreatic sections revealed the integrity of the islets of Langerhans and decreased inflammation of the islets. This study demonstrated that flavonoids from plants and the QSE have hepatoprotective and pancreatic protective effects through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms; hence, these compounds are potentially useful as therapeutic agents in the management of fructose-induced metabolic dysfunctions