Indian Journal of Community Health
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Comparison of Ice Lined Refrigerators of the different types used in Western part of India under the Universal Immunization Program.
No full textBackground & Objective: The effectiveness of Ice-Lined Refrigerators (ILRs) is crucial in maintaining the cold chain for vaccines, particularly in India\u27s Universal Immunization Program (UIP). This cross-sectional study aimed to compare the performance of top-and front-opening ILRs in Gujarat, focusing on temperature stability, holdover time, and functionality. Methods: A total of 123 ILRs from various manufacturers were assessed across urban and rural health facilities. Key parameters such as ambient temperature, breakdown frequency, ease of use, and temperature fluctuations during door openings were recorded. Mann-whitney U test/ t-test and Binary logistic regression model were used as statistical methods. Results: Analysis indicated that top-opening ILRs, which made up 72.4% of the sample, performed significantly better in maintaining temperature stability and had a longer holdover time (mean: 5.4hours) compared to front-opening ILRs (mean: 4.3hours). Temperature breaches were more frequent in top-opening models (34.8%) compared to front-opening ones (5.9%), but the front-opening ILRs exhibited a greater temperature rise during door openings. Logistic regression analysis revealed a strong association between longer holdover time and top-opening ILRs. The study also found infrastructure and training gaps at some facilities, with only 57.7% of ILRs equipped with functional temperature monitoring systems, and many health workers lacking updated training. The findings suggest that top-opening ILRs are more reliable for cold chain management, though further investigation into front-opening models is warranted. Conclusion: For future cold chain management, prioritize top-opening ILRs for their reliability, increase AMC coverage for consistent maintenance, and enhance training for personnel on ILR handling, especially with newer models. Additionally, invest in backup-power and temperature monitoring equipment to prevent temperature breaches, particularly in remote areas
Assessment of knowledge, attitude, and practice towards research ethics among medical faculty and postgraduate residents of the government medical college in Uttarakhand
No full textBackground: Research ethics fundamentally describe the guidelines followed by a researcher while working on the research. This study assesses the knowledge, attitude, and practices towards research ethics among medical faculty and postgraduate residents. Methods: 105 medical faculty and postgraduate students participated in a cross-sectional study at a government medical college in Uttarakhand using convenience sampling. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to gather data, which included demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to research ethics. Participants were approached department-wise and provided a Google Form link. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 20, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results: Of the 105 participants, 66.6% were ?30 years old, 53.3% were female, and 64.8% were postgraduate residents. While 68.6% were currently involved in research, 64.8% had no prior publications. Knowledge of research ethics varied significantly by rank, with faculty and senior residents demonstrating stronger ethical stances than junior residents, particularly regarding citation practices and method reuse. Significant differences were found in views on self-plagiarism, plagiarism severity, and its justification. Reported plagiarism practices included 2.9% using others\u27 work without citation and 4.8% misappropriating ideas. Conclusion: Our study reveals gaps in research ethics awareness, especially among junior residents. While most participants were engaged in research, many lacked prior publication experience. Ethical knowledge varied by rank, with faculty and senior residents demonstrating stronger adherence. Misconceptions about self-plagiarism and plagiarism severity were common, highlighting the need for targeted ethics training
Road Safety Awareness and Attitudes Among Undergraduate Students in a City of Western India
No full textBackground: Road traffic injuries (RTIs) pose a major global public health challenge, causing significant morbidity, mortality and disability annually. India, despite having only 1% of the world’s vehicles, contributes significantly to global road fatalities. Factors such as poor road conditions, inadequate driver training, lax enforcement of traffic laws, and risky driving behaviors exacerbate the issue. Young adults, due to their mobility and risk-taking tendencies, are particularly vulnerable. This study aimed to assess the awareness, attitudes, and behaviors of undergraduate students in Ahmedabad regarding road safety. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate students across five academic disciplines in Ahmedabad during the 2021–2022 academic year. A multistage random sampling method was employed, selecting colleges from different administrative zones. A structured questionnaire was administered online via Google Forms. The sample size was determined at 440 students, with additional considerations for non-response. Descriptive statistical methods, including Chi-square tests, were used to analyze the data. Results: The study included 446 respondents (51.3% males, 48.7% females) with a mean age of 20.84 years. Most students drove both two- and four-wheelers (52.2%), while 30.7% drove only two-wheelers. A majority (90.3%) held valid driving licenses. Risky behaviors such as underage driving (14.1%), use of mobile phones while driving (56.8% Bluetooth, 8.5% handset), and non-compliance with protective gear (39.5% always, 9.9% never) were noted. Over speeding and distracted driving were identified as significant accident contributors. A substantial proportion of respondents (59.2%) supported stricter enforcement of traffic laws. Conclusion: The findings highlight critical gaps in road safety awareness and behavior among undergraduate students. While most students recognize the dangers of reckless driving, non-compliance with safety measures remains prevalent. Strengthening road safety education, promoting responsible driving behaviors, and enforcing stricter regulations are essential to reducing RTIs among young adults
Determining Maternal Risk Factors and Biomarkers Associated with Preterm Birth: A Multicentric Cohort Study
No full textBackground: Preterm birth remains a significant public health challenge, accounting for around 75% of all neonatal deaths. Aim & Objective: To determine various risk factors along with potential biomarkers associated with preterm birth. Settings and Design: This prospective multicentric cohort study was conducted in two private hospitals in urban South Gujarat from January 2023 to June 2023. Material and Methods: Using a purposive sampling method, a total of 150 women aged 20 to 45 years were initially screened. After applying the eligibility criteria, 48 were excluded, and 102 participants were ultimately enrolled in the study. Statistical analysis used: Chi-square test was used to compare distribution of variables, univariate analysis to evaluate associations, odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CI) with P values were used. Results: From 102 participants, 21 (20.6%) were preterm and 81 (79.4%) were full- term. Steroid use (OR 3.28, P=0.03), history of dysmenorrhea (OR 5.26, P < 0.01), twin pregnancy (OR 14.83, P < 0.01), Individuals with an abnormal BMI were over three times more likely to experience preterm birth, and this link was found to be statistically significant (OR 3.12, P = 0.03). History of abortion had higher odds (OR 2.05). Biomarkers like Abnormal AMH (OR 3, P = 0.21), low progesterone (OR = 8.19, p < 0.01), Abnormal prolactin (OR = 8.86, p < 0.01), Abnormal ferritin (OR 36, P < 0.01) were associated with the preterm birth. Conclusions: Usage of steroids, dysmenorrhea, abnormal BMI and twin pregnancy are risk factors of preterm birth. Serum ferritin, prolactin and serum progesterone were identified as potential biomarkers which can be used to predict preterm birth and had positive association from study findings
Women’s Reproductive Health in India: Connecting Government Policies and Programmes with NFHS 5 Data
No full textBackground: Women\u27s reproductive health is an integral part of their overall well-being, and India has made considerable progress in improving reproductive health services. Despite these efforts, persistent issues such as spatially heterogeneous policy outcomes, especially in remote and marginalized areas, remain. Objectives: This research intends to study assess the current state of women’s reproductive health in India, with a focus on contemporary policies and socio-economic differentials. Methods: The study employs a policy review and secondary data analysis method. The data analysed is from NFHS-5 (National Family Health Survey), which provides a comprehensive national representation. Key indicators analysed include maternal health, fertility rate, anaemia, family planning, and gender-based violence to analyse women’s reproductive health. Findings: It is suggested that while government policies have improved education, awareness, and gender equality, certain challenges persist. Notably, anaemia among women aged 15 to 49 increased from 53% in 2015–16 to 57% in 2019–21. Conclusion: It has been noted that initiatives of the government have led to improvement on ground level on fertility behaviour and continuum of care of mother and infants. However, nutritional security for women requires specific attention of the state and society. A community health approach which is sensitive and participatory is recommended for the same
Prevalence of obesity and correlation among various obesity indices among security personnel in a tertiary care hospital in Delhi
No full textBackground: Obesity represents a growing public health concern worldwide, and certain occupational groups, such as security personnel, face a heightened risk. Aims: The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to assess how common obesity is among the subjects and to analyse the relationship between different measures of obesity among 356 security personnel in a tertiary care hospital in Delhi. Methodology. The study assessed indices such as Body Mass Index (BMI), Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR), Waist Circumference (WC), Conicity Index (CI), and Waist Stature Ratio (WSR), using both WHO and Asia-Pacific guidelines. Results: The study revealed that 41.6% of the security personnel were overweight, while 7.3% were obese according to WHO criteria. In contrast, based on Asia-Pacific criteria, 49.2% were obese. Females exhibited a higher prevalence of obesity than males, with significant gender disparities in WC, WHR, and CI. WHR showed a total prevalence of 77.2%, while WSR indicated that 64.9% were obese. CI demonstrated a positive correlation with WC and WHR, while WSR was strongly correlated with all indices. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of using multiple obesity indices to assess obesity among security personnel comprehensively. These findings emphasise the need for targeted interventions to address obesity in this occupational group, which could reduce the risk of obesity-related health conditions
Comparative Burden of HbA1c and RBG Levels Among Individuals Above 25 Years in the Post-COVID-19 and Pre-COVID-19 Periods: A Retrospective Analysis at a Medical College Hospital, Ramanagara, Karnataka : Impact of COVID on RBG levels
No full text
Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted public health, including metabolic health and glycemic control. SARS-CoV-2 affects glucose metabolism through inflammation, stress, and healthcare disruptions. HbA1c, a key diabetes marker, has shown increased levels post-COVID, suggesting higher hyperglycemia burden. In India, pre-COVID data revealed 12% of women and 14% of men over 15 years had RBG >140 mg/dl, with higher rates reported during COVID due to stress, inflammation, and treatment changes like corticosteroid use. We hypothesized a 15% rise in elevated HbA1c and RBG levels post-COVID among patients over 25 years. This study compared pre- and post-COVID trends by age and gender.
Methods:
The study was conducted at CDSIMER Hospital, as a retrospective observational analysis of HbA1c and RBG levels in patients aged >25 years. Two periods were compared: Pre-COVID-19 (2019–2021) and Post-COVID-19 (2022–2023). Data from the Laboratory Information System (LIS) and NFHS-5 reports were analyzed. Inclusion criteria included complete HbA1c and RBG records. The estimated sample size, based on previous studies, was 10,475.
Results:
A total of 17,238 patients data were analysed. In the post-COVID period, 16.95% had very high levels (?160 mg%), more than doubling from NFHS-5 data. Males showed a higher prevalence (22.15%) than females (12.86%). HbA1c >6.5% was found in 64% of individuals aged >25 years.
Conclusion:
Alarming increase in blood glucose levels among population aged above 25 years. National Health Programmes to take justifiable action on priority.
 
Awareness and perception of cervical cancer among Pre-primary school teachers in Dehradun: A Cross-Sectional study
No full textBackground: Cervical cancer is preventable through primary, secondary, and tertiary activities, including health education, HPV vaccination, and early screening. Despite high costs and healthcare barriers, it remains a major public health issue in India. This study assesses knowledge, awareness, and perceptions of pre-primary school teachers in Dehradun about cervical cancer and vaccination. Objectives: To evaluate awareness of cervical cancer, its causes, symptoms, protection, and influencing socio-demographic factors among female teachers. Methods: A 2-month cross-sectional study used a pretested questionnaire on knowledge, attitudes, practices, and socio-demographics among female teachers in Dehradun. Data were analysed with SPSS v21 and Chi-square tests. Results: Of 104 teachers from 23 schools, 47% had heard of cervical cancer, mainly online (86%). About 80% were unaware of risk factors, and 70% didn\u27t know the symptoms. Only 25% knew of vaccination, and none had received it. Twenty percent identified Pap smear as a screening test, with fewer than 3% having undergone it. Significant associations were found between risk factors and awareness of risk factors or warning signs. Conclusion: Raising awareness, education, and communication are vital for screening and prevention. Even educated women in Dehradun lack adequate knowledge of prevention, highlighting the need for increased health awareness
An Assessment of Prevalence of Alcohol Consumption, Drinking Behaviors, and Alcohol Use Disorders Among Medical Students of UPUMS, Saifai, Etawah, Uttar Pradesh: A Cross-Sectional Study
No full textBackground: Alcohol consumption during college is trending now a days. Early age alcohol user can be potential chronic alcoholics. They are at increased risk for academic failure, mental health problems, antisocial behavior, Road traffic accidents, early onset dementia, and development of alcohol use disorders. Identifying students at risk enables timely interventions. Aim & Objective: To estimate the prevalence of alcohol consumption and assess alcohol use disorders (AUDs) and identify drinking behaviors among medical students at UPUMS, Saifai, Etawah. Settings and Design: Cross-sectional study conducted among undergraduate medical students of four MBBS batches at UPUMS. Methods and Material: A structured questionnaire including the AUDIT tool was administered via Google Forms. Complete enumeration was done among 460 students. Incomplete responses were excluded. Statistical analysis used: Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were performed using SPSS version 26. Results: Alcohol consumption prevalence was 19.8%. Most students began alcohol use after age 19, citing fun and experimentation as reasons. Alcohol use was significantly associated with age and family history of alcohol use (p < 0.001). AUDIT revealed that 12% of drinkers were at increasing risk for AUDs. Conclusion: The study highlights a notable prevalence of alcohol use among medical students, with risk factors including age and family history. Early detection is essential to prevent dependency
Perception for educational environment among medical students, Nainital: A Mixed method Cross-sectional study
Get PDFBackground- Environmental measurement has drawn some attention in the context of health professional education, with special focus on its effects on students outcomes. We sought to clarify the impact of CBME modules on the learning environment. An understanding of the educational program environment can help improve quality assurance. Aim and Objectives- To gain insight into medical students’ perception for Traditional and CBME curriculum for their educational environment in GMC Haldwani using DREEM Tool. To identify the strengths of current curriculum and suggestions for further improvement. Methodology- It is a mixed method Cross-sectional study conducted at Government Medical College Haldwani from November 2023-January 2024. In this study, the Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure (DREEM) tool was used for undergraduate medical students of traditional batch 2018 and CBME batch 2020. Scores obtained were expressed as mean ± Standard Deviation (SD). For qualitative part of the study, in depth interview of the 30 students of CBME Batch was conducted. Results- In quantitative part of the study ,we compared the DREEM scores of both the batches. The mean DREEM scores in this study were 120/200 for batch 2018 and 126/200 for batch 2020. Total scores were slightly high in CBME batch which means students of CBME batch were quite more satisfied with their learning environment. In qualitative part of the study we conducted in depth interviews with 30 randomly selected students from the CBME batch to understand the strengths of their curriculum and further ideas for improvement. Questions in the interview were asked under the domains of the DREEM tool. In qualitative part, reduction in duration of lectures and more research oriented teaching was suggested by the students. More student-centered activities like hospital visits and discussions of clinical scenarios were recommended. In social self perception, hostel rules to be relaxed more along with adding more of extra curricular activities were suggested. Conclusion- Both group of students had a positive perception of their learning environment, based on their scores. Through qualitative part of this study many strengths were perceived by the students of CBME curriculum along with the suggestions for further improvement