Area Of South India Research Articles

Awareness on Tuberculosis and Factors Determining it among Migrant Brick Kiln Workers in a Rural Area in South India

Background: Awareness of the subjects on Tuberculosis is an important factor in early reporting by symptomatics as well as early case finding by the program. Aim: The current study was done to find out the awareness of migrant brick kiln workers, a key population as per RNTCP, on various parameters of Tuberculosis. Method: This was a cross sectional study conducted among all migrant brick kiln workers working in the brick kilns in the field practice area of the Rural Health Centre of a medical college hospital. A pretested structured questionnaire was used for the interview. SPSS version 16.0 was used for analysis. Results: Among 580 brick kiln workers, the mean age was 36.47. The awareness on TB was as follows – germs as cause -8.3%, cough and sputum as main symptoms – 21%, that TB spreads – 28%, availability of free treatment for TB – 19% and TB is preventable – 16%. Their educational status was directly associated with their knowledge. (p<0.05) Conclusion: The awareness on TB is very low among this population. Targeted health education will have a positive impact on the migrants’ health as well as overall public health by reducing transmission.

Effectiveness of reflexology related interventions on physiological and biochemical parameters of metabolic syndrome among women

The purpose of the study was First to evaluate the effectiveness of reflexology related interventions on biochemical and physiological parameters of metabolic syndrome among women; Second to find out the association between physiological and biochemical parameters of metabolic syndrome among women with socio-demographic variables. The study used a true experimental design with one experimental group and one control group. Data were collected from 40 self-help group women who were the members of Kudumbashree from a selected area in South India. Samples were collected by using multistage sampling. Reflexology related intervention was given to the experimental group for 12 weeks. The control group did not receive an intervention. Repeated measures ANOVA and t-test were used for data analysis. The study found there is a significant change in the physiological and biochemical parameters of metabolic syndrome among the experimental group as compared to the control group (p<0.001). Even if there is no statistically significant difference between the different groups, the observed difference is clinically significant. The study concludes that reflexology related intervention was effective in improving the parameters of metabolic syndrome. It can be implemented in the clinical setting for patients with metabolic syndrome and related lifestyle disorders

Frequency and Clinical Significance of Localized Adverse Events following Mass Drug Administration for Lymphatic Filariasis in an Endemic Area in South India.

Fear of adverse events (AEs) negatively affects compliance to mass drug administration (MDA) for lymphatic filariasis (LF) elimination program. Systemic AEs are believed to occur because of killing of microfilariae, whereas localized soft tissue reactions might be due to the death of adult worms following therapy. Most AEs are mild and self-limited. However, localized AEs are sometimes more significant and of concern to participants. Here, we describe localized AEs that were noted during a large community study that evaluated the safety of a triple-drug regimen (ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine, and albendazole) for the treatment of LF in India. We have also discussed the importance of timely detection and careful management of AEs for preserving community confidence in MDA.

A cross sectional study on awareness of breast self-Examination and its practice in women of rural area in South India

A cross sectional study on awareness of breast self-Examination and its practice in women of rural area in South India

Prevalence of alcohol use and the interventions needed among adults: A community study in a rural area in South India.

Background:The health issues and social problems associated with alcohol use are well known. This study seeks to identify the prevalence of alcohol consumption and dependence among alcohol users in a rural area of Trivandrum district.Objectives:To assess the prevalence of alcohol use among adults of Nellanad Panchayat, a rural area in Trivandrum, Kerala, to find out the interventions required among the alcohol users, and to identify persons with harmful and hazardous use of alcohol using AUDIT.Settings and Design:Cross-sectional study in Nellanad Panchayat, Trivandrum district, Kerala.Methods and Materials:A cross-sectional study was carried out among 1545 residents in Nellanad Panchayat, a rural area in Kerala, by interviewing adults with the help of a questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS.Results:The overall prevalence of current alcohol use was 146 (9.5%). The prevalence among males was 143 (18.3%) and females was 3 (0.4%). ASSIST scores showed that 99 (50%) of ever users required health education, 74 (37.8%) required counseling, whereas 23 (11.7%) required de-addiction.Conclusions:Among males, the alcohol consumption is still as high as 18.3%. The most important factor affecting alcohol use is peer pressure. Health education is the most required intervention to reduce burden of alcohol use.

Prevalence and determinants of Alcohol use in a remote rural area in South India: A community-based cross-sectional study.

Introduction:Alcohol use is a major public health problem in India. We sought to study the use of alcohol and its risk factors in a rural area in South India.Methods:This study was conducted in 20 villages surrounding a Rural Health Training Centre, located in South India. The study was done from March 2018 to October 2018 with the help of Medical Interns and Medical Social Workers using a pretested questionnaire.Results:In a total population of 14,925, 11,995 individuals are in the age group of 15 years and above, among whom 1,005 were reported to be using alcohol. The prevalence of alcohol among 15 years and above is 8.4% (7.9–8.9) and the overall prevalence in the total population is 7% (6.3–7.1). Prevalence of alcohol use among males and females are 16% and 1%, respectively. The alcohol use is higher among those who prefer open defecation (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) 1.2 (1.0–1.4)), Kutcha house (aOR 1.7 (1.4–2.2)) or semi-pucca house (aOR 1.3 (1.121.6)), lower caste (Most Backward Castes (MBC) aOR 1.7 (1.2–2.2), Scheduled Castes (SC) aOR 2.1 (1.6–2.9)), male gender (aOR 41 (29–59)), Married 5.0 (3.7–6.8), or Separated 2.6 (1.5–4.4) and Diabetes 1.6 (1.1–2.3).Conclusion:Alcohol use in a remote rural area is high among socially deprived communities who live in kutcha and semi-pucca houses and belong to a lower caste. This needs serious public health interventions to improve their socioeconomic status.

Differential Production of Pigments by Halophilic Bacteria Under the Effect of Salt and Evaluation of Their Antioxidant Activity.

Microorganisms that survive in the high salt environment have been shown to be a potential source for metabolites with pharmaceutical importance. In the present study, we have investigated the effect of 5 and 10% (w/v) NaCl on growth, biochemical changes, and metabolite production in seven moderately halophilic bacteria isolated from the salterns/mangrove area of South India. Metabolite production by Bacillus VITPS3 increased by 3.18-fold in the presence of 10% (w/v) NaCl concentration. Total phenolic and flavonoid content increased in Bacillus VITPS5 (11.3-fold) and Planococcus maritimus VITP21 (5.99-fold) whereas β-carotene content was less at higher NaCl concentrations. VITP21 and VITPS5, in response to NaCl, produced metabolites with higher (6.72- and 4.91-fold) DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activity. UV/visible spectrophotometry of the extracts confirmed the presence of flavonoids, phenolics, and related compounds. 1H-NMR spectra indicated substantial changes in the metabolite production in response to salt concentration. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that VITP21 extracts exhibited the highest antioxidant activity compared with other extracts. The present study presents the first report on the comparative analysis of pigment production by moderate halophilic bacteria, in response to the effect of salt and their relation to radical scavenging property.

Cleistanthus collinus poisoning affects mitochondrial respiration and induces oxidative stress in the rat kidney

Cleistanthus collinus is a poisonous shrub used for deliberate self-harm in rural areas of South India and intake of boiled decoction of leaves is a common method of self-harm. Distal renal tubular acidosis (dRTA) is an important clinical symptom observed in C. collinus poisoning, and renal V-ATPases may be potential targets of damage. However, a lack of understanding of molecular mediators involved hampers medical management, which is mainly supportive. We hypothesized that C. collinus poisoning induces renal oxidative stress; probably by inducing mitochondrial uncoupling, which compromises V-ATPase activity to ultimately produce dRTA. This was tested by exposing renal BBMV, kidney cells in culture, and Wistar rats to C. collinus poisoning. Exposure to C. collinus aqueous extract resulted in significant elevations in the lipid peroxidation marker, conjugated dienes, in cell culture and in vivo. A significant decrease in mitochondrial respiratory control ratio was observed in kidneys from C. collinus-treated animals suggesting that mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation is uncoupled. This was accompanied by significant increase in ADP levels and a decrease in proton pump activity. Thus, these results demonstrate that C. collinus poisoning induces oxidative stress which influences proton pump activity, probably due to feedback inhibition by elevated ADP levels because of mitochondrial dysfunction in the rat kidney.

A Study of the Knowledge and Attitude towards Pulsepolio in Urban areas of South India

A Study of the Knowledge and Attitude towards Pulsepolio in Urban areas of South India

Pattern of Drinking, Dependence and Morbidity among Male Alcohol Consumers in a Coastal Area of South India.

Pattern of Drinking, Dependence and Morbidity among Male Alcohol Consumers in a Coastal Area of South India.

Air Pollution and Subclinical Atherosclerosis in a Peri-Urban Area in South India (CHAI-Project)

Previous studies linking particulate air pollution with carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), a subclinical marker of atherosclerosis and predictor of cardiovascular events, have been conducted in...

A Cross-Sectional Study On Bone Density In Adults From An Urban Area Of South India

A Cross-Sectional Study On Bone Density In Adults From An Urban Area Of South India

Effect of Quality of Antenatal Care and Perinatal and Postnatal Outcomes among Women Availing Routine Antenatal Services in a Primary health Care Setting in a Rural Area of South India

Effect of Quality of Antenatal Care and Perinatal and Postnatal Outcomes among Women Availing Routine Antenatal Services in a Primary health Care Setting in a Rural Area of South India

Correlation of hematological profile with CD4 counts in human immunodeficiency Virus-Positive patients in a rural area of South India

Correlation of hematological profile with CD4 counts in human immunodeficiency Virus-Positive patients in a rural area of South India

A community study of alcohol consumption in a rural area in South India

Background: Alcohol is reaping a socio-psychological cost from the lesser educated and poor of Kerala. Its prevalence varies from 33-50%, with the age of initiation decreasing recently. The type of liquor and the manner, in which it is consumed, make it a risk factor for many health hazards. This study aimed to find out the age at onset of the habit and the potential side effects in a rural population of Thiruvalla, Kerala, India. Methods: A house to house survey of adult males was carried out using the alcohol use disorders identification test (AUDIT) questionnaire in Thiruvalla, Kerala. The age at initiation and potential health effects of the habit was inquired and the drinkers were grouped into 3 based on dose and frequency of drinking, in addition to the teetotalers. Results: The sample studied was heavily dominated by the middle income, pre-university males. Prevalence of problem drinking was 12.8% across the age groups with the highest drinking prevalence in the age group under 40. AUDIT subscore adequately revealed the amount of drinking and extent of addiction. About 3/4th to 2/3rd regular drinkers suffered from adverse effects of drinking in the past. Only less than a third of occasional drinkers had these associated histories. Higher degrees of drinking were associated with lower incomes. Age at initiation influenced the extent of present drinking and the occurrence of adverse events. Conclusions: The study points to the necessity of delaying the age of initiation of drinking among youngsters in Kerala.

Prevalence and predictors of metabolic syndrome in patients with schizophrenia and healthy controls: A study in rural South Indian population

IntroductionMetabolic syndrome (MetS) has been extensively studied as a co-morbidity in patients with schizophrenia. A disparity is noted between hospital and community based estimates in India. We aimed to examine the prevalence and predictors of MetS in schizophrenia patients and general population controls in a rural population in South India. MethodsPatients (n=157) and general population controls (n=263) were recruited from a rural area in South India. Diagnosis of MetS was established using International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria. Patients were also assessed on clinical parameters, treatment details, dietary and physical activity patterns. Predictors of MetS were estimated based on subgrouping of patients with and without MetS. Results50 (31.8%) of the patients and 76 (28.9%) of the controls were diagnosed to have MetS. Female gender and ongoing antipsychotic exposure were noted to be significant predictors of MetS with odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of 2.87 (1.2–6.86) and 4.42 (1.37–14.25) respectively. Three empirically defined treatment groups ‘never treated’, ‘ever treated’ and ‘continuous treatment’ groups had odds ratios (95% CI) of 0.53 (1.68–6.58), 0.92 (0.5–1.69) and 3.33 (1.68–6.58) when compared to the control group. ConclusionsPatients who were naïve to antipsychotics had a significantly lower prevalence of MetS compared to general population. This finding doesn't support the antipsychotic independent risk for MetS in patients with schizophrenia. Female gender and regular antipsychotic exposure predicted MetS.

An epidemiological study of prevalence of hypertension and its risk factors in a rural community of South India

Background: Chronic non-communicable diseases are important among adult population all over the world. Hypertension (HTN) is the most common cardiovascular disorder accounting for 20-50% of all cardiovascular deaths. The prevalence of HTN is increasing in both rural and urban communities. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of HTN and its associated risk factors in a rural population. Materials and Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted at rural areas of South India. The sociodemographic variables and risk factors were obtained by interviewing the participants in a predesigned semi-structured questionnaire. The sample size was calculated by the prevalence of HTN in previous studies and 650 participants were included. The blood pressure was assessed and classified according to the Joint National Committee VII classification. Statistical analysis was done using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test of significance. Results: Out of the 650 adults surveyed, 92 individuals (14.1%) were found to be suffering from HTN. Among males, 58 (16.2%) had HTN and 92 (25.7%) were prehypertensives, and among females, 34 (11.6%) had HTN and 71 (24.2%) were prehypertensives. The prevalence rate of HTN shows an upward trend as age advances. The prevalence rate was high among males, higher socioeconomic class, and among the highly educated groups. The risk factors such as tobacco usage, alcohol consumption, additional salt intake, family history of HTN, obesity, high waist-hip ratio, and diabetes mellitus were found to have statistically significant association with HTN. Conclusions: There is an increase in the prevalence of HTN in the rural communities of South India. Population-based prevention strategies and evidence-based clinical strategies should focus on early detection and appropriate treatment.

Labouring Self-Help: Dialectics of Disability and Development in South India

Neoliberal ideologies have been globalized through development practices, and these have tended to be received as seductive, even quasi-magical solutions for all. Offering an ethnographic window into what happens when these development policies are implemented for disabled members of rural communities in contemporary India, this paper captures disabled people's experiences as they move through the circuits of neoliberal development projects of the World Bank in rural areas of South India. Based on a multi-year ethnographic study of a disability self-help group project, it analyzes various material and discursive mechanisms by which groups get comported as self-government techniques that are limiting the scope of the state. Simultaneously, it captures ways in which disabled people manage to subvert millennial development and its assemblages to create emancipatory possibilities. A disability analytic reveals fissures in the implicit promises of development—its temporalities, spatialities, socialities, and embodied capacities – and critiques its foundational assumptions through the social worlds of those at its margins.

Prevalence of depression amongst adolescents in rural area of South India – a school based cross sectional study

Introduction:Depression is common in adolescents and especially in high school students and is one of the most frequent mental disorders among teenagers. Depression in adolescents is an under recognized mental health problem because they remain indecisive to disclose their feelings and seldom seek psychiatric help. One of the factors that make depression so difficult to diagnose in adolescents is the common behavioural changes that are normally associated with the hormonal changes of this period. It has only been in recent years that the medical community has acknowledged childhood depression and viewed it as a condition which requires intervention. Materials and Methods:Aschool based cross-sectional study among adolescents was conducted by using self-administered structured “Patient Health Questionnaire-9 modified for Adolescents (PHQ-A) questionnaire” in rural field practice area of A.J.Instituteof Medical Sciences & Research Center, Mangaluru. Results:Total 284 students participated in the study and prevalence of depression was 49%. Prevalence of depression increased with age (p-value:0.001) and was higher among females (p-value:0.02). Discussion:Prevalence of depression in this study matched with other studies conducted in India. Majority of the students suffered from mild depression which indicates early diagnosis is crucial in prevention of progression to moderate and severe forms of depression. Conclusion:Prevalence of depression among adolescents is high. There is an urgent need for incorporation of simple screening methods for depression in school health program.

Acute febrile illness and treatment seeking behavior among residents of a coastal area in South India

Abstract Introduction Fever is a common symptom during the monsoon in the coastal regions in India. Fever can lead to dangerous life threatening conditions in some cases if left untreated. Thus it is important to know the occurrence of acute febrile illness (AFI) and the treatment seeking behavior for the same among population of coastal areas. Materials and methods A community based observational study was conducted in coastal area of Villupuram district, Tamilnadu. Using a pre-designed and pre-tested questionnaire, house-to-house survey was done by trained medical students, under the supervision of post graduate students and faculty. Occurrence of fever and treatment seeking behavior was studied in the resident population. Results Among 811 subjects, 15.9% ( n = 129) reported to have one or more episodes of fever in the past 3 months. More males (17%) reported to have fever than females (14.6%). The reported incidence was highest among children of age group of less than 10 years (36.5%) followed by age group 10–19 years (17.80%). Average duration of fever was 5.4 ± 2.7 days. Nearly 20% of the participants with fever ( n = 27) neither visited any health care facility nor reported to have any form of treatment. Most of the study participants (47.7%) preferred to access government health facility for their febrile illness that occurred last time. Conclusion The reported incidence of the AFI was high among children as compared to adults and government primary health care facilities were the most preferred health care facility visited for febrile illness.