Female sex workers (FSWs) remain a highly vulnerable population for sexually transmitted infections due to structural, behavioural, and occupational risk factors that often go unaddressed in rural settings. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and identify the predictors of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among brothel-based FSWs in a rural area of eastern India, to guide targeted public health interventions. This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 210 brothel-based female sex workers in Matia Bazar, Basirhat, a rural area in eastern India, using simple random sampling from the Durbar Mahila Samanwaya Committee (DMSC) registry. Data were collected using a predesigned and pretested questionnaire. Our study found that 44.8% of FSWs showed symptoms of STIs or RTIs in the past year. Key predictors included a higher client load [AOR: 2.30; 95% CI: 1.24–4.30] and condom breakage during intercourse [AOR: 2.62; 95% CI: 1.02–6.75]. Although condom use with clients was reportedly universal, only 18.8% used them with cohabiting partners. Condom breakage was reported by 84.3%, yet post-exposure measures such as emergency contraception were infrequently adopted. The final model explained 21% of the variance in STI/RTI occurrence. High client load and condom failure significantly increase the risk of STI/RTI among brothel-based FSWs, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced condom use training and tailored intervention programmes. International Journal of Human and Health Sciences Vol. 10 No. 01 Jan’26 Page: 39-47

Bangladesh is ranked among the top ten countries with the heaviest smoking burdens globally. The country has a high adult smoking prevalence, with an estimated 21.9 million adults currently using tobacco products. This study aims to determine the intention to quit tobacco and its related factors among rural people of Bangladesh. This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted from January to December of 2023, at Kutubpur Union under Narayanganj Sadar Upazilla of Narayanganj District, Bangladesh. A total of 385 adult male tobacco users from a participated in this study. We adopted a convenience sampling technique. More than half of the respondents (51.4%) expressed an intention to quit tobacco use within the next 12 months. Among the respondents 46.2% had tried to stop smoking in the past 12 months. In terms of smoking patterns, 45.5% of participants smoked 5-10 cigarettes per day and 24.4% also used smokeless tobacco. The initiation of smoking was predominantly at a young age, with 84.94% starting between 15-20 years old. Exposure to antismoking messages was common, with television being the primary source (66.8%), followed by social networks (19.7%). Knowledge of tobacco control laws was limited, with 53% of respondents reporting they were unaware of such laws. However, a majority (95.6%) had noticed the health warnings on cigarette packages. Regarding beliefs and social influences, most participants believed that cigarette smoking causes serious illness (77.1%). Family pressure to quit smoking was reported by 56.4% of respondents. In contrast, only a small fraction (13.8%) had ever received advice from a doctor to quit smoking. At the workplace, smoking was not allowed for 49.9% of the respondents, while 34% reported having no specific smoking rules. International Journal of Human and Health Sciences Vol. 10 No. 01 Jan’26 Page: 8-13

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a major cause of death and loss of quality of life worldwide. Folate deficiency is an emerging risk factor for AMI. This case-control study was conducted in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Bangladesh Institute of Research and Rehabilitation in Diabetes, Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders (BIRDEM) Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh, between July 2021 and June 2022, to determine the possible correlation between serum folate and troponin-I levels in acute myocardial infarction among type 2 diabetic patients. A total 80 type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients were included in the study: 40 patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) were in group-I (case) and 40 patients without AMI were in group-II (control). We adopted a convenient sampling technique. After 8-12 hours fasting blood specimens were collected from study participants to estimate serum troponin-I, folate, fasting blood glucose and HbA1C levels. Serum folate level was significantly lower in group-I compared to group-II (3.87±3.17ng/ ml vs. 8.19±3.07ng/ml; P<0.01), while serum troponin-I level was significantly higher in group-I than that of group-II (3035.82±728.16pc/ml vs. 7.58±3.19pc/ml; P<0.01). Regarding glycaemic status, fasting blood glucose (FBG) level was found significantly higher in group-I than that of group-II (10.17±3.56mmol/L vs. 8.64±2.28mmol/L; P<0.01), while HbA1C was also observed significantly higher in group-I compared to group-II (9.81±4.28% vs. 8.45±1.92%; P<0.01). A significant negative correlation was found between serum folate and troponin-I level (r=–0.301; P<0.01). Multiple logistic regression also showed a significant negative association of folate with troponin-I level (P<0.001) To conclude, serum folate level is decreased in AMI in diabetic patients compared to diabetic patients without AMI. Therefore, early detection of serum folate level helps to prevent of AMI and its recurrence in Type 2 diabetic patients. International Journal of Human and Health Sciences Vol. 10 No. 01 Jan’26 Page: 48-52

There are numerous evidences for correlation of clinical and radiological parameters with morality in patients with acute haemorrhagic stroke but there is lack of studies in predicting functional outcome. This prospective, observational, cohort study conducted in 100 adult patients of spontaneous intra cerebral haemorrhage. Data pertaining to patients clinical and radiological profile including intracerebral haemmorhage (ICH) score was recorded at admission. After 12 weeks, assessment of functional neurological recovery was done using modified Rankin’s Scale (mRS) and was correlated with clinical-radiological parameters and ICH score. The major risk factors of acute haemorrhagic stroke, hypertension and age did not influence functional outcome at 12 weeks (p>0.05). However, high mean SBP, DBP and HbA1C at presentation were associated with poor recovery. Among clinical parameters, low GCS and focal neurological deficit strongly correlated with poor functional outcome (p<0.001). The functional independence was highest in basal ganglia haematoma (55.8%), followed by lobar (42.9%) and thalamus (35.7%). Cerebellum and brainstem involvement had worst functional outcome. However, the site specific difference was not statistically significant. High haematoma volume (>30 cc), intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH), midline shift, hydrocephalus and low GCS at presentation have been associated with poor functional outcome (p<0.05). Functional independence rate for ICH score 0.1 and 2 were 100%, 74% and 54%, respectively at 12 weeks. Clinical and radiological parameters including ICH score can predict and stratify the functional neurological outcome in acute haemorrhagic stroke. Thus in addition to predicting 30 day mortality, ICH score can also help in prognosticating functional outcome in ICH patients. International Journal of Human and Health Sciences Vol. 10 No. 01 Jan’26 Page: 14-21

Abstract not available International Journal of Human and Health Sciences Vol. 10 No. 01 Jan’26 Page: 3-7

This study explored personal attitudes, usage patterns, and perceived benefits and limitations of evidence-based practice (EBP) among academic professionals in Sri Lanka’s health education sector. EBP is a key approach in training health professionals to deliver collaborative, patient-centered care. The success of EBP education depends on multiple factors, including individual perceptions, institutional support, and integration into teaching methods. This study aimed to assess readiness for EBP education and its influence on clinical skills, decision-making, and interdisciplinary collaboration within post-secondary health professional programs in medicine, nursing, and physical therapy. A structured questionnaire was distributed via email and post to academic staff across Sri Lanka in January 2024, with a satisfactory response rate of 46%. The survey measured attitudes using an adapted readiness for EBP scale. Results showed strong support for EBP principles, with 100% of respondents agreeing that patients ultimately benefit when health professionals collaborate through interdisciplinary learning. While overall attitudes were favorable, one noted limitation was the perceived variation in knowledge and skill acquisition across faculties – 36.5% agreed and 25% disagreed that students gain significantly more within their own disciplines, suggesting a potential barrier to integrated EBP learning. In conclusion, the findings indicate a positive perception of EBP among academic staff, with strong support for interdisciplinary collaboration. These results suggest that Sri Lanka’s health education system is well-positioned to implement EBP initiatives that foster teamwork, critical thinking, and patient-centered care across professional boundaries. International Journal of Human and Health Sciences Vol. 10 No. 01 Jan’26 Page: 22-28

Breast cancer is the commonest malignancy among women globally. During 1990s in India from being fourth in the list of most common cancer to becoming the first with early detection being key to reducing mortality. Breast Self-Examination (BSE) is a simple, cost-effective method that helps in identifying changes in the breast at an early stage. Among healthcare workers, especially women, awareness and regular practice of BSE are crucial as they serve as both role models and educators. This cross-sectional, observational study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Nagpur, India, to assess knowledge, attitude, and practices of BSE among females in the hospital.. A total of 360 female healthcare workers (clinical, pre-clinical, paraclinical, and office staff) were selected for this study through convenience sampling technique. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire. A total of 360 women aged between 18 to 60 years participated in the study. Among them, 19.72% reported a family history of cancer, and 9.17% had a personal history. While 86.9% had heard about BSE, only 56.4% knew the correct timing, and 49.2% practiced it monthly. Despite a high level of self-reported awareness, only 37.2% of participants had received formal training from healthcare staff, and only 63 women stated that they would seek medical consultation upon detecting abnormalities. Although no formal statistical correlation analysis was conducted between knowledge, attitude, and practice, the observed patterns indicate a disconnect between awareness and its consistent application in health-seeking behavior. Despite high awareness and favorable attitudes, significant gaps exist in accurate knowledge, proper technique, and clinical response. Targeted educational interventions focusing on BSE training, early detection, and reducing psychological barriers are essential to improve breast cancer outcomes among healthcare workers. International Journal of Human and Health Sciences Vol. 10 No. 01 Jan’26 Page: 53-60

Despite the widespread awareness of Hepatitis B virus, there still arises significant knowledge gaps, risky behaviors and poor vaccination coverage among university students. This study aims to determine the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection among undergraduate and to assess their knowledge, attitudes, risk factors, awareness, and vaccination status, with the goal of providing evidence-based recommendations for HBV prevention and control. This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 undergraduate students of Baze university in Abuja, Nigeria, selected through simple random sampling, between February and July of 2025. Data were collected using a structured, pre-tested questionnaire covering socio-demographics, medical history, behavioral risk factors, knowledge, and awareness of HBV. In addition, participants were screened for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) using a rapid immunochromatographic test kit (Labacon), with confirmatory testing performed for positive results. Of the 250 students screened, only one (0.4%) tested positive for HBV. Awareness was high, with 96% of respondents reporting knowledge of HBV, and 80.4% identifying the virus as the causative agent. However, significant misconceptions persisted, particularly regarding modes of transmission; 10.8% believed HBV could spread through casual contact, and 14.8% cited contaminated food or water. While 72% were aware of the availability of an HBV vaccine, only 38% were fully vaccinated and 50.8% remained unvaccinated. Notably, 75.6% expressed willingness to undergo free screening, and 82% recognized that university students are at heightened risk. Despite high levels of awareness, knowledge gaps and low uptake of vaccination and testing persist among university students, underscoring the need for targeted educational interventions, on-campus vaccination drives, and routine screening programs to reduce HBV risk in this population. International Journal of Human and Health Sciences Vol. 10 No. 01 Jan’26 Page: 29-38

Heterotopic pancreas, is also known as ectopic pancreas, pancreatic Choristoma, pancreatic rest, and aberrant pancreas. Ectopic Pancreas is a rare congenital anomaly defined as normal pancreatic tissue located outside its normal anatomical site without anatomical, vascular and neural continuity with the pancreas in the retroperitoneum. The overall incidence of ectopic pancreas at different locations is in decimals. Its occurrence in the gallbladder is rare and rarely reported in the literature. Ectopic pancreatic tissues are usually identified in an alive individual during cholecystectomy for gallstones, acute or chronic cholecystitis, or gallbladder polyps. They do not have a specific symptom. However, they mimic the symptoms of gallstones and acute or chronic cholecystitis. The clinical significance of this pathology is unclear. In this case, we report a 36-year-old female who was suffering from right upper quadrant pain for a year, which had the characteristics of biliary colic. She had a planned laparoscopic cholecystectomy as a day case procedure. The gallbladder specimen showed there were no stones postoperatively, and the specimen was sent for histological examination. The histology report identified an ectopic pancreatic tissue in the neck of the gallbladder near the cystic duct. The histological confirmation revealed that the ectopic pancreas was mimicking a gallbladder polyp and was producing symptoms of biliary colic. International Journal of Human and Health Sciences Vol. 10 No. 01 Jan’26 Page: 61-63

Background: Investigating complex food and waterborne outbreaks poses challenges due to diverse pathogens and symptoms. Objectives: This study focused on a foodborne outbreak during a nationallevel event in Kota Bharu, Malaysia, which aimed to describe the outbreak, identify risk factors, locate the source, and detail control measures. Methods: Active and passive methods, interviews, record reviews, lab tests, and environmental assessments were used. A case-control study defined cases as individuals experiencing abdominal pain, diarrhoea, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. They were compared with a 1:2 asymptomatic control group. Demographic and food history data were collected through an online form distributed to related health district offices, involving 81 boarding schools across the country and international counterparts from Indonesia, Thailand, and China. Statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel 365 and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) application. Results: Among 941 exposed individuals, 126 cases (attack rate:13.8%) occurred. Common symptoms included abdominal pain(84%), nausea(51%), diarrhoea(44%), dizziness(44%), and vomiting(44%). The epidemiological curve indicated a point source pattern, with a 1-to-20-hour incubation period. Causative foods were white rice (OR:8.2, 95% CI:3.66,18.37) and chicken with paprika sauce (OR:8.5, 95% CI:3.80,19.03), both statistically significant (p<0.001). HACCP analysis identified food handling issues, with Bacillus cereus isolated from food handlers. To mitigate the situation, premises were temporarily closed, and a health education program was conducted. Conclusion: This study underscored the significance of digital tools and food safety protocols in tracing foodborne outbreak origins. These are crucial for safeguarding public health and averting future incidents. International Journal of Human and Health Sciences Vol. 09 No. 04 Oct’25 Page: 207-211