Awareness Of Preventive Measures Research Articles

Awareness of Preventive Measures in Osteoarthritis Among Urban Population in Pune City

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common articular disease of the developed country and cause of chronic disability, and may cause joint failure. Osteoarthritis of knee joint is common musculoskeletal problem nowdays in Indian population. OA is ranked among top 20 diseases in 40-45 years of age group. Purpose: Osteoarthritis is responsible for major burden of disease and is one of the leading causes of global disability. People delay accessing health care for Knee Osteoarthritis due to lack of knowledge. Therefore early diagnosis, signs and symptoms and awareness to delay/stall future disease process is essential for enhancing quality of life and function. Objective: Objective of this study was to assess the knowledge about preventive measures of OA. Setting: Different parts of Pune city. Method: The study is undertaken to assess knowledge about preventives measures of OA with the help of self-made questionnaire in urban population of Pune, approved by ethical committee. The study was commenced with a sample size of 200 among urban residents of Pune. The questionnaire was circulated via google form through mails and other social media platforms and data analysis was done. Participants: Age group 25-50 years were taken for the study. Population who were clinically pre diagnosed with osteoarthritis were excluded from the study. Outcome measure: The primary outcome measure of this study was to assess the knowledge about preventive measures of OA where they have good knowledge about OA. Results: Maximum population is aware about Osteoarthritis Conclusion: There is lack of awareness regarding, signs and symptoms like crepitus, deformity, tenderness, joint enlargement, and risk factors, including age, trauma, family history and also the importance of posture correction and environmental awareness. Most of the population are not aware of surgical and conventional treatment for osteoarthritis. Keywords: Osteoarthritis, prevention, bones and joints, awareness

Population Segmentation and Recommendations Based on Disease Risk and Preventive Awareness

Chronic non-communicable diseases represent a major challenge in the global healthcare landscape. To effectively prevent and manage these diseases, understanding the disease risk and awareness of preventive measures among community residents is of paramount importance. This study collected questionnaire data and conducted comprehensive analysis. This paper’s objective was to categorize residents based on multidimensional factors and provide personalized health recommendations. This paper achieved this by establishing a three-dimensional mapping model and employing the K-Medoids clustering algorithm to classify samples into four categories. Based on these categories, the paper offered diverse health advice encompassing dietary adjustments, exercise habits, regular check-ups, smoking cessation, and alcohol restriction. These recommendations aim to reduce disease risk and effectively manage chronic non-communicable diseases.

HYPERTENSION: PREVALENCE AND PREVENTIVE KNOWLEDGE

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is often referred to as a silent killer due to its typically asymptomatic nature. It is a prevalent health issue in Pakistan. The high incidence of hypertension underscores the importance of spreading knowledge about its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options, especially among individuals pursuing higher education. The demands and stress associated with higher education can increase the susceptibility of students to hypertension. In this context, the present study aims to investigate two key aspects related to hypertension among students at Arid Agricultural University, Rawalpindi: 1) its prevalence and 2) the awareness of preventive measures. A sample of 100 students currently diagnosed with hypertension was selected following initial screening. Data was collected through structured interviews and subsequently analyzed using SPSS. Among the students interviewed, 51% fell within the age group of 24 to 27, while the remaining students were aged above 27. The study revealed that out of all respondents diagnosed with hypertension, 82 students were familiar with the disease and its health implications. Out of these 82, 65 students were actively receiving treatment. Notably, 75% (N=16) of the students were aware of the available treatments, and 56.25% (N=16) were currently undergoing treatment. In terms of educational attainment, MPhil and PhD students exhibited higher levels of awareness and engagement with hypertension, with sensitization and treatment rates of 93.33% for MPhil and 100.00% for PhD students, as opposed to 73.33% for MPhil and 75.00% for PhD students who had sought treatment. The study's findings also point to the need to explore the root causes of hypertension and its potential impact on students' academic performance, particularly in terms of their academic results. Additionally, the study suggests investigating the approaches students commonly employ to manage high blood pressure. Notably, students pursuing Master's and Doctoral degrees tend to have a better understanding of hypertension and are more likely to receive regular treatment for the condition.

Abstract 16: Building Capacity on Cancer Prevention of Healthcare Professionals in Latin America and the Caribbean as Trusted Agents to Increase Populations’ Health Literacy: An Online Competency-Based Microlearning Program

Abstract Purpose: Every year 1.5 million new cancer cases are diagnosed in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). Of these cancers, about 40% could be prevented by avoiding or reducing exposure to modifiable risk factors and unhealthy behaviours. Health literacy has been identified as a main barrier for cancer prevention and control. Healthcare professionals may play a key role in cancer prevention as the first entry point of the public in the health system. We aim to improve health literacy and awareness of cancer prevention in the public in LAC through building capacity and competencies of healthcare professionals to adopt cancer prevention actions. Methods: We developed an online competency-based self-paced microlearning program for primary healthcare professionals based on the cancer prevention actions recommended in the 1st edition of the Latin American and the Caribbean Code Against Cancer (soon to be launched). The competences addressed in the curriculum are knowledge, communication skills, problem-solving and applying knowledge to real-world situations. We designed a comprehensive evaluation based on the Miller’s Pyramid with a pre-post design to assess the acquisition and use of these competences. Data will be collected in three time-points: a) immediately prior to commencing the training program, to assess baseline knowledge and skills; b) immediately after completion, to determine acquired competences (knows, knows how, and shows how); and c) at 3-6 months follow-up, to assess performance in daily practice (does). Results: The microlearning program will be freely available to all LAC healthcare professionals. During the study period, students wishing to receive a certificate will have to provide their informed consent to participate in the study and complete the necessary questionnaires. Our expected outcomes are: a) short-term, increased healthcare professionals’ competencies to apply cancer prevention in their clinical practice; and b) long-term, enhanced cancer literacy and awareness of preventive measures in the public to reduce cancer risk in LAC. Conclusion: Primary healthcare professionals may be key vectors to increase public awareness and literacy on cancer prevention; however, competency-based trainings are needed to offer the public truthful and actionable advice, answer questions and disseminate personalised preventive messages. Citation Format: Ariadna Feliu, Carolyn Finck, Arlette Bahena Botello, Mariantonia Lemos, Carolina Espina. Building Capacity on Cancer Prevention of Healthcare Professionals in Latin America and the Caribbean as Trusted Agents to Increase Populations’ Health Literacy: An Online Competency-Based Microlearning Program [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 11th Annual Symposium on Global Cancer Research; Closing the Research-to-Implementation Gap; 2023 Apr 4-6. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 16.

Students' Knowledge and Willingness Towards COVID-19 Vaccination, University of Bohol

The COVID-19 pandemic has gripped the world, necessitating a collective response. As vaccination emerges as a critical tool in the battle against the virus, this research explores the knowledge and willingness of allied medical students at the University of Bohol toward COVID-19 vaccination. With 839 students enrolled for the second semester of the academic year 2021-2022, a representative sample of 286 students was selected. Utilizing a standardized questionnaire, the study assessed knowledge levels and willingness to vaccinate among students from the College of Nursing, Pharmacy, Midwifery, and Physical and Occupational Therapy departments. Results indicate a moderate knowledge level (composite mean = 2.84), with awareness of preventive measures and the existence of a vaccine. Positive attitudes towards vaccination, emphasizing communal health responsibility and trust in healthcare providers, were evident. However, concerns about potential side effects were relatively low. Demographic analyses revealed age and sex-based variations in knowledge and willingness, emphasizing the need for tailored educational initiatives. Notably, there was no significant correlation between knowledge and willingness, underscoring the multi-faceted nature of individuals' attitudes toward vaccination. These findings provide crucial insights for public health strategies, urging targeted educational campaigns and emphasizing nuanced approaches for different demographic groups. The study contributes valuable perspectives for refining vaccination programs and addressing the evolving challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Awareness about preventive measures that reduce the risk of breast cancer among menopausal women

Background: Breast cancer is the most common malignant cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death in women. In 2020, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 6,85,000 deaths globally. Mortality due to breast cancer is found to be high in the developing countries because they seek medical attention at advanced stages due to lack of awareness and low socio-economic status. As there is no uniform education policy for breast cancer prevention and there is no acceptable strategy for breast cancer prevention throughout the nation, we thought to assess about awareness of preventive measures that reduce risk of breast cancer in menopausal women.Methods: For data collection, consent was taken from the participants and a questionnaire was given to them through Google form. Once the data was collected, descriptive data analysis was done on it.Results: This study found that 80.6% of women are aware of the term ‘breast cancer’ in general. Women are comparatively more aware about primary preventive measures than about secondary preventive measures. The study also found that some women have myths regarding risk factors and preventive measures of breast cancer.Conclusions: The study found that women are more aware about primary preventive measures than about secondary preventive measures. Also, some women have myths regarding risk factors and preventive measures of breast cancer.

COVID-19: Distance learning to empower educators and health assistants in rural areas.

BACKGROUND:Educators and health assistants can act as key players in controlling the pandemic. In general, they are respected by the community, especially in rural areas, and can help guide and raise the population's awareness of preventive measures. The objective of this paper is to evaluate the results in knowledge progress of an e-learning course offered to educators and health assistants by a public university and to analyze the profile and satisfaction of the participants.MATERIALS AND METHODS:A single group pre- and post-test design based on a questionnaire, interventional, study was conducted in the period from April 20th to June 20th. All participants of the course answered sociodemographic and satisfaction questionnaire and a pre- and post-test. Data were descriptively arranged and regarding the distribution and comparison of means and frequency, paired t-test for group comparisons. P < 0.05 was statistically significant. Data were collected from the Moodle® teaching platform, without identifying the participants.RESULTS:A total of 674 participants were enrolled in the five groups, and 583 concluded the course (86.5%). The reasons for those who did not access the entire course (n = 47) were: Lack of time, difficulty in accessing the internet, and lack of experience with distance learning courses. On the evaluation of the course platform, from the tutors in general and the degree of satisfaction in several questions, participants marked maximum grades. The comparison between pre- and post-proficiency scores showed increased proficiency of the enrolled groups (P < 0.0001).CONCLUSIONS:The course contributed to the training of health assistants and educators, preparing them to act in a participatory way in the prevention and control of the pandemic. The course was well evaluated and there was a progression of knowledge by the participants.

Sex Differences in Association of Depression with Self-Rated Health and Awareness of Cardiovascular Preventive Measures

Aim: To determine gender differences in the relationship between depression and self-rated health and awareness of measures for cardiovascular prevention in an open population of 25-4 years in Russia/Siberia (Novosibirsk). Methods: Under the screening based on the budgetary theme No. AAAA-A17-117112850280-2, a random representative sample of the male and female population who were residents in one of the districts in Novosibirsk was examined in 2013-2016 (n=975, 43.8% males, mean age 34.5±0.4 years). Selfassessment of health and awareness of preventive measures was assessed using the questionnaire "Knowledge and attitude to own health". Depression was assessed using the depression scale based on the adapted MMPI questionnaire. Results: There was a linear increase in the proportion of those who considered themselves "not entirely healthy" or "sick" with an increase in the level of depression in 25-34 and 35-44 years age groups of studied population. Women aged 35-44 years with a moderate level of depression are 15-20% more likely than men to report that they are “not entirely healthy” and “sick” and have health complaints (p &lt;0.05). Men aged 25-34y with major depression were more likely to report negative self-esteem and health complaints but these differences were not statistically significant. In both age groups, with an increase in the level of depression by 20-40%, the proportion of people who “clearly did not take care of their health” among men and women increased. However, the presence of depression eliminate statistical gender differences. In the presence of depression, women are 16% more likely than men to consider it highly likely to develop a serious illness in the next 5-10 years, while they are 10% less likely to have regular health checks. Women were 4-12% more likely than men to doubt the possibilities of preventive medicine, regardless of the level of depression. Conclusions: As depression rises, self-rated health falls and confidence in the effectiveness of preventive measures among both sexes decreases. And while women are more likely to report pessimistic responses to health and prevention, the presence of high levels of depression deletes gender differences.

A Cross-Sectional Survey of Knowledge of Skin Cancer in Saudi Arabia.

Skin cancer has become one of the world's leading health problems, and incidence rates are on the rise. The leading causes of skin cancer are sun exposure, family history and sunburn, and the most agreed-upon preventative behaviors are sunscreen application and sun avoidance. This study assessed the knowledge of the causes of skin cancer and awareness of preventative measures in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 529 participants in a WhatsApp group over 3 months. Consenting participants completed a validated, 18-item questionnaire. Of 529 total participants, nearly 55% of participants reported an awareness of skin cancer, 35% understood its metastasis and 55.1% knew about its spread. However, 44% of participants were unaware of the different types of the disease. Social media was reported to be the most common source of information. The majority of participants were able to identify symptoms of skin cancer and had knowledge of risk factors. Most participants understood proper preventative measures, and reported that they use sunscreen regularly. The general knowledge of skin cancer in Saudi Arabia is not high but is increasing. However, sun-protective behaviors are lacking, despite the population's knowledge of the benefits. Awareness campaigns and incentive programs may encourage better preventative behavior. Future studies should explore participants' awareness of more specific aspects of skin cancer using a more diverse and extensive population sample.

The Association Between Chronic Disease and Serious COVID-19 Outcomes and Its Influence on Risk Perception: Survey Study and Database Analysis.

BackgroundCOVID-19, a viral respiratory disease first reported in December 2019, quickly became a threat to global public health. Further understanding of the epidemiology of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the risk perception of the community may better inform targeted interventions to reduce the impact and spread of COVID-19.ObjectiveIn this study, we aimed to examine the association between chronic diseases and serious outcomes following COVID-19 infection, and to explore its influence on people’s self-perception of risk for worse COVID-19 outcomes.MethodsThis study draws data from two databases: (1) the nationwide database of all confirmed COVID-19 cases in Portugal, extracted on April 28, 2020 (n=20,293); and (2) the community-based COVID-19 Barometer survey, which contains data on health status, perceptions, and behaviors during the first wave of COVID-19 (n=171,087). We assessed the association between relevant chronic diseases (ie, respiratory, cardiovascular, and renal diseases; diabetes; and cancer) and death and intensive care unit (ICU) admission following COVID-19 infection. We identified determinants of self-perception of risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes using logistic regression models.ResultsRespiratory, cardiovascular, and renal diseases were associated with mortality and ICU admission among patients hospitalized due to COVID-19 infection (odds ratio [OR] 1.48, 95% CI 1.11-1.98; OR 3.39, 95% CI 1.80-6.40; and OR 2.25, 95% CI 1.66-3.06, respectively). Diabetes and cancer were associated with serious outcomes only when considering the full sample of COVID-19–infected cases in the country (OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.03-1.64; and OR 1.40, 95% CI 1.03-1.89, respectively). Older age and male sex were both associated with mortality and ICU admission. The perception of risk for severe COVID-19 disease in the study population was 23.9% (n=40,890). This was markedly higher for older adults (n=5235, 46.4%), those with at least one chronic disease (n=17,647, 51.6%), or those in both of these categories (n=3212, 67.7%). All included diseases were associated with self-perceptions of high risk in this population.ConclusionsOur results demonstrate the association between some prevalent chronic diseases and increased risk of worse COVID-19 outcomes. It also brings forth a greater understanding of the community’s risk perceptions of serious COVID-19 disease. Hence, this study may aid health authorities to better adapt measures to the real needs of the population and to identify vulnerable individuals requiring further education and awareness of preventive measures.

Assessing the Prevalence of Dental Injuries while Playing Sports as well as Awareness of Preventive Measures in Schoolchildren of Amritsar City: A Cross-sectional Study

Assessing the Prevalence of Dental Injuries while Playing Sports as well as Awareness of Preventive Measures in Schoolchildren of Amritsar City: A Cross-sectional Study

ASSESSMENT OF CITIZENS'AWARENESS REGARDING ORAL HYGIENE AND PREVENTION OF DENTAL DISEASES

Recently, sanitary and educational work for the prevention of dental diseases in children is widely implemented, but the problem of awareness and oral hygiene in young and middle-aged people remains quite relevant.&#x0D; Nowadays, the range of dental items and hygiene products is quite wide, so a person who does not receive the recommendations of a dentist is quite difficult to understand what and why it should be used.&#x0D; Therefore, the aim of the study was to study the preventive knowledge of ordinary passers-by of young and middle age and their awareness of additional subjects and hygiene products.&#x0D; Object and methods of research. To achieve this goal, 100 passers-by in the center of Poltava were interviewed. According to the age classification of the World Health Organization: the young age is from 25 to 44, middle age is 44-60, elderly age is 60-75, senile age is 75-90 and long-livers are after 90. Two age groups were selected for the results: young and middle-aged, as these groups are the most common. Age was determined by survey. 50 people aged 25-44 years and 50 people aged 44-60 years were elected. The gender was not taken into account when choosing a contingent.&#x0D; Passers-by were asked 5 simple questions that characterized both the preventive habits of the respondents and knowledge about hygiene items and products.&#x0D; Research results and their discussion. Analyzing the answers to the questions, we found that young people (25-44 years) are more aware of the rules of oral care than middle-aged respondents (44-60 years). Answering the first question - "How often do you visit the dentist?" respondents answered as follows: only 5 young people visit the dentist as needed, while among middle-aged people this number is seven times higher.&#x0D; When answering the second question - "Do you pay attention to the composition of toothpaste when choosing?" respondents answered as follows: 42% of young people always pay attention to the composition, twice as many people - buy what the dentist advises, and the rest respondents were not interested in the components of the paste. The results of the second group were significantly worse.&#x0D; The third issue concerned the frequency of toothbrush changes, which is very important for the quality of oral hygiene and cleaning efficiency. The results of the survey showed that people from the older age group of the study are less aware of this issue.&#x0D; The answers to the fourth and fifth questions also showed a lower level of knowledge in middle-aged people.&#x0D; Thus, after analyzing the answers of the respondents, it is clear that people of the younger age group (25-44 years) are more aware of oral hygiene and prevention of dental diseases. In our opinion, this situation is associated with the introduction of health education at different levels, available information on the Internet and various social platforms, more responsible attitude to their health and awareness of preventive measures.&#x0D; It is necessary to pay attention to the education of middle-aged people regarding oral hygiene, as it is an integral part of the prevention of dental diseases.

Awareness of the preventive measures against Covid -19 spread among small shop owners

Covid -19 is an infectious disease caused by the newly discovered strain of coronavirus. As there is no vaccine discovered, the only way to prevent the spread is through following the practice of social isolation. But prolonged isolation may also lead to psychological stress and problems. The objective of the survey was to assess the knowledge and awareness of preventive measures against Covid 19 amongst small shop owners. A web-based cross-sectional study was conducted amongst the small shop owners. A structured questionnaire comprising 15-17 questions had been put forth to assess the Covid 19 related knowledge and perception. The shopkeepers were contacted telephonically and responses recorded. The data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS statistics. Although the majority of the population had a positive perception about the preventive measures against the Covid spread, 36% of the shopkeepers were not aware of the preventive measures against the Covid spread. This study found optimal knowledge and perception of the preventive measures against Covid spread among the shopkeepers but misinformation and misunderstanding still prevailing. The shopkeepers are crucial in the prevention of the spread of Covid 19 and educating them might aid us in the fight against Covid- 19.

OSTEORADIONECROSIS OF THE JAWS: A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY

Objective To describe the profile of individuals diagnosed with osteoradionecrosis of the jaws at a reference center for oral lesions from 2010 to 2016. Study Design This is a cross-sectional study where sociodemographic, clinical, and lifestyle variables were obtained from clinical records and analyzed descriptively. Results There were 9 cases of osteoradionecrosis diagnosed in individuals with a mean age of 61.7 years. From those, the majority occurred in males (88.9%), with low educational level (55.5%), and smokers (44.4%). History of squamous cell carcinoma was observed in 77.8% of the individuals, mainly located in the alveolar mucosa (22.2%), tongue, mouth floor, and lower lip (11.1%). Combined radiotherapy and chemotherapy was the most used for tumor treatment (55.6%). Osteoradionecrosis lesions were predominantly in the mandibular region (77.8%), and posttreatment radiotherapeutic exodontia was performed by 33.3% of the individuals. Conclusions Recognition of the profile of individuals at greater risk for osteoradionecrosis, their awareness of preventive measures, and compliance with protocols before, during, and after head and neck radiotherapy are important measures to prevent osteoradionecrosis. To describe the profile of individuals diagnosed with osteoradionecrosis of the jaws at a reference center for oral lesions from 2010 to 2016. This is a cross-sectional study where sociodemographic, clinical, and lifestyle variables were obtained from clinical records and analyzed descriptively. There were 9 cases of osteoradionecrosis diagnosed in individuals with a mean age of 61.7 years. From those, the majority occurred in males (88.9%), with low educational level (55.5%), and smokers (44.4%). History of squamous cell carcinoma was observed in 77.8% of the individuals, mainly located in the alveolar mucosa (22.2%), tongue, mouth floor, and lower lip (11.1%). Combined radiotherapy and chemotherapy was the most used for tumor treatment (55.6%). Osteoradionecrosis lesions were predominantly in the mandibular region (77.8%), and posttreatment radiotherapeutic exodontia was performed by 33.3% of the individuals. Recognition of the profile of individuals at greater risk for osteoradionecrosis, their awareness of preventive measures, and compliance with protocols before, during, and after head and neck radiotherapy are important measures to prevent osteoradionecrosis.

Assessing knowledge on preventive colorectal cancer screening in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study.

Context:According to the Saudi Cancer Registry's 2014 Cancer Incidence Report, colorectal cancer (CRC) is the leading form of malignant cancer among Saudi men and ranks third among women. Raising awareness about CRC risk factors could lead to a significant decline in incidence of disease.Aims:To assess CRC awareness and evaluate the main barriers that might prevent individuals’ participation in screening.Settings and Design:A self-administered survey was conducted over two days as part of a CRC awareness campaign in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia in March, 2018.Methods and Materials:The survey addressed issues regarding knowledge of CRC and available screening methods. The survey also examined barriers that might make one reluctant to undergo preventative screening. Stata/SE 15.0 was used for all statistical analyses.Statistical Analyses:Continuous variables were described with frequencies and percentages. Stepwise linear regression models were constructed to predict CRC knowledge and barriers.Results:Out of 422 participants, 50.2% were men. Most respondents were between 15–35 years old (65.8%). Multivariate analysis revealed that gender was a significant predictor of CRC knowledge. Furthermore, the variables of education and family history of CRC significantly predicted subjects’ awareness of colonoscopic screenings. The most common barriers for seeking screening included fear of the procedure, absence of clinical symptoms, and fear of the results.Conclusions:Our results highlight deficits in public CRC knowledge and their awareness of preventative measures. These shortcomings were found to be mainly related to education level. Specific barriers affecting screening decisions were also identified; intensive efforts on awareness to overcome these obstacles will be required.

Investigation on prevalence of chronic musculoskeletal injury among nursing staff of old-age welfare

Objective To investigate the prevalence and influencing factors of chronic musculoskeletal injury (CMI) among nursing staff of old-age welfare in Urumqi city, to find out the awareness and implementation of preventive measures for chronic musculoskeletal injury, and the demand on new life support technology. Methods This study looked after chronic musculoskeletal injury situation questionnaire, in April 2015 form 1st to 30th in urumqi 8 nursing work of old-age nursing staff to carry out the questionnaire. Results A total of the 200 old-age nursing staff, the effective response rate of 183 (91.5%). Old-age nursing researchers report in the past week have the CMI hair author 169 people (92.3%). Occurrence of CMI in gender, educational background, whether on the thought of leaving post was statistically different (χ2=8.36,16.14,14.05, P<0.05). Higher occurrence of CMI was found in the nursing process of showering and washing hair [81.4% (149/183)], transition between wheelchair and bed [63.9% (117/183)], and changing body position in bed [61.2% (112/183)]. The most common site of CMI occurrence were namely back [84.7% (155/183)], shoulder [54.1% (99/183)], lower limbs [35.0% (64/183)] and upper limbs [30.1% (55/183)].Only 31 (16.9%) knew new life support technology which can prevent and reduce CMI. 178(97.3%) reported having needs to use new life support technology, and 179 (97.8%) were willing to participate in relevant technology. Conclusions Prevalence of CMI among nursing staff of old-age welfare in Urumqi region was high. It was related to many factors. Most of nursing staff have needs on life support techniques. Measures should be taken to prevent and reduce the occurrence of CMI among nursing staff of old-age welfare to improve work efficiency. Key words: Nursing staff of old-age welfare; Chronic musculoskeletal injury; Awareness of preventive measures; Life support technology

Trends of reported human cases of brucellosis, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 2004–2012

Human brucellosis is an important zoonotic disease and is especially concerning in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), where livestock importation is significant. We analyzed reported human brucellosis disease trends in KSA over time to help policymakers understand the magnitude of the disease and guide the design of prevention and control measures. By using data from the national registry from 2004 to 2012, we calculated the cumulative numbers by age group and months. Trends of incidence rates (IRs) by gender, nationality, and region were also calculated. We found that there was a greater number of cases (19,130) in the 15–44years age group than in any other age group. The IRs significantly decreased from 22.9 in 2004 [95% confidence interval (CI)=22.3, 23.5] to 12.5 in 2012 (95% CI=12.1, 13). Males had a significantly greater IR than females. Most cases were reported during spring and summer seasons. The IR of Saudi citizens was significantly greater than that of non-Saudis, but this difference reduced over time. The IRs of Al-Qassim, Aseer, and Hail were in the highest 25th percentile. Young, male Saudi citizens living in highly endemic areas were at greatest risk of acquiring brucellosis. We recommend vaccinating susceptible animals against brucellosis and increasing the public’s awareness of preventive measures.

Predictive factors for percutaneous and mucocutaneous exposure among healthcare workers in a developing country

The aim of this study is to determine the risk factors for percutaneous and mucocutaneous exposures in healthcare workers (HCW) in one of the largest centers of a middle income country, Turkey. This study has a retrospective design. HCWs who presented between August 2011 and June 2013, with Occupational Exposures (OEs) (cases) and those without (controls) were included. Demographic information was collected from infection control committee documents. A questionnaire was used to ask the HCWs about their awareness of preventive measures. HCWs who work with intensive work loads such as those found in emergency departments or intensive care units have a higher risk of OEs. Having heavy workloads and hours increases the risk of percutaneous and mucocutaneous exposures. For that reason the most common occupation groups are nurses and cleaning staff who are at risk of OEs. Increasing work experience has reduced the frequency of OEs.

English

Influenza viruses infect a wide range of animal hosts and cause yearly wintertime epidemics among people living in temperate zones. Due to their ability to mutate, re-assort gene segments, and cross species, influenza viruses can also lead to pandemics in which immunologically naive people are exposed to a new, highly contagious subtype. In the last century, these pandemics were caused by influenza viruses whose surface attachment proteins, or hemagglutinins, were derived from birds, the natural reservoir of influenza virus. Vaccines are the primary means to provide protection for people at risk for inter-pandemic influenza, and new vaccines, directed against avian-potentially pandemic-strains are now being tested. The aim of this study was to examine available information on influenza pandemic in order to create awareness of preventive measures against influenza pandemic and to suggest future research areas in developing control strategies. Key words: Influenza, pandemic, H5N1, vaccine, antiviral agents.

Effect of malaria on rural households’ farm income in oyo state, nigeria.

Malaria is one of the commonest tropical diseases plaguing the African continent and the rural areas of the continent in particular. Hence this study was carried out to analyze the effect of malaria on the overall farm income of the rural households, the level of awareness and use of modern preventive measures of treating malaria in Ido Local Government Area, classified as rural in Oyo State. Stratified random sampling procedure was employed for the research survey in which the first level of stratification involved the random selection of one Local Government Area (LGA),the second level of stratification was that of selection of four villages and the third level of stratification was the selection of twenty five households each from the villages . A total number of 100 respondents were finally used for data analysis using both descriptive and multiple regression techniques. Low level of awareness, (56%), use of modern preventive measures (12%), poor sanitary conditions, and large household size (8 persons), were the major factors responsible for the high malariaincidence in the rural household. The increase in malaria incidence however had a significant effect on the health and farm income of the farmers through increase in the number of days of incapacitation of an average of 22 days and an income loss of N15231.50 during the days of incapacitation. The recommended policies arising from the economic implications of these empirical findings were that public enlightenmentunder the aegis of the “Roll Back Malaria Campaign” should be intensified in the rural areas in particular and treated mosquito bed nets provided at subsidized rates to rural households. Farmers on their part should keep clean environment. (Afr. J. Biomed. Res. 11: 259- 266)Key words: malaria, environment, agricultural farm income. Incapacitation,awareness of preventive measure.