Challenges In Bangladesh Research Articles

A critical review on heavy metal contamination in aquatic food webs by edible fish species: a special case concerning Bangladesh.

Heavy metals (HMs) are ubiquitous in terrestrial and aquatic environments due to unplanned industrial waste discharge, the release of untreated wastewater, and improper mining activities. In particular, the concentrations of HMs are found to be higher in aquatic environments. As a result, the aquatic biota was heavily affected by HM contamination. This critical review aims to understand the sources and toxicity of HMs in commercial fish species, explore their ecological exchange, and examine the related human health challenges in Bangladesh. A modified PRISMA review technique is used in this paper to analyze the current status and research limitations of HM studies in Bangladesh fish species and their toxicity within aquatic food webs. Briefly, we searched several keywords to explore the research trend of HM concentrations and toxicity in fish species. Furthermore, potential toxicity and risk assessment of HMs through the aquatic food chain in Bangladesh were explored. On the other hand, a cross-tabulation approach was used to process the toxicity findings of HMs. Previous studies indicate that fish species can possess comparatively higher HMs than river water due to ecological exchange factors, including bioaccumulation and biotransformation. This review focuses on Bangladesh, highlighting areas for improvements and the need for further study to achieve a transparent understanding of HM deposition in fish species and the sustainable management of aquatic food chain toxicity.

The silent threat: Unveiling climate change's water and health challenges in Bangladesh

ABSTRACT Bangladesh faces a growing number of issues, such as limited sources of potable water and health hazards that are either directly or indirectly linked to climate change. In total, 16 publications from 2007 to 2024 were manually screened for inclusion in this systematic review. The articles were divided into three categories: climate and water, climate and health, and climate, water, and health. Due to the climate change, 20 million individuals in Bangladesh have been suffering from water- and health-related illness. The results showed that among Bangladeshi vulnerable groups, cholera, infant diarrhea, pneumonia, dengue, malaria, mental illness, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, and an increase in communicable diseases like water-, vector-, and food-borne infections, along with malnutrition, are common. Further findings of the study include health risks, water-related risks, and difficulties in determining the consequences of climate change. This review study focuses on Bangladesh, a developing country, and the correlation between climate change and the dangers of water and health-related diseases. The findings of this study have substantial implications for risk assessment, water quality, climate change, and public health, especially in poor nations, as well as for policymakers and academicians in these fields.

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) of China: Opportunities and challenges for Bangladesh in South Asian geo-strategic context

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) of China: Opportunities and challenges for Bangladesh in South Asian geo-strategic context

The division of labor strategies among parents in areas prone to climate challenges in Bangladesh: an exploratory study

ABSTRACT This study investigates how parents’ division of labor strategies are impacted by climate change in Bangladesh. Qualitative methodologies were employed in the present study to gather and analyze data. Sunamganj, Satkhira and Natore are three climate-vulnerable districts where in-depth interviews were conducted with married men and women with only child. Thematic analysis was also employed, utilizing qualitative data provided by the interviews. The findings demonstrate that division of labor tactics, however, differ according on the kind and severity of risks and difficulties a region encounters as well as how vulnerable it is to climate change. Furthermore, when the effects of climatic shocks worsen and women are primarily faced with the difficulties of performing household tasks, which makes them more agitated and nervous, they also anticipate their spouse to be more cooperative. However, mothers in areas vulnerable to cyclones and droughts prioritize their children's education since it can be a means of mitigating the harm caused by climate change, as it can guarantee their children's future stability and means of subsistence. The findings indicate that couples’ gender-based labor distribution strategies may need to be adjusted since climate change affects how men and women choose to take on parenting obligations.

Evaluating Health Policy Effectiveness in Reducing the Economic Burden of Non-Communicable Diseases in Bangladesh

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) represent a significant and growing public health challenge in Bangladesh, contributing to a substantial economic burden. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, cancers, and chronic respiratory conditions, represent a major health challenge in Bangladesh, contributing to substantial morbidity, mortality, and economic burden. The economic impact is profound, affecting both individuals and the broader economy through healthcare costs, loss of productivity, and long-term financial strain. This review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of health policies in mitigating the economic burden of NCDs in Bangladesh. The article begins with an overview of the prevalence and risk factors associated with NCDs, followed by an examination of the national health policies aimed at prevention, treatment, and management. The evaluation considers both successes and challenges, with a focus on policy implementation, healthcare financing, and access to care. Case studies highlight specific policy interventions that have demonstrated measurable success in reducing NCD prevalence and associated costs. The findings suggest that while significant progress has been made in policy formulation, challenges remain in ensuring comprehensive implementation and equitable access to healthcare services. Cost-effective strategies, such as scaling up preventive measures and improving healthcare infrastructure, are essential for reducing the economic burden of NCDs. The review concludes with recommendations for strengthening existing policies and exploring innovative approaches to sustain and enhance the impact of health policies on NCD management in Bangladesh.

Effectiveness of flood early warning for the Jamuna char-dwellers at Sirajganj District in Bnagladesh

Floods, a pervasive global natural disaster, are a recurrent challenge in Bangladesh, causing substantial damage to property, infrastructure, and lives. The country has implemented a flood warning system since 1972, focusing on people, property, and cost-effectiveness. However, the efficacy of this system relies on accurate and timely dissemination of warnings and prompt responses from at-risk communities to mitigate losses and damages. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the flood early warning systems at the grassroots level in Sirajganj District, specifically in two purposively selected villages within the Kaijuri Union. One village is situated along the unprotected bankline, while the other is in the island char area. Data was gathered from 116 households through interviews, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. Results of the Multi-criteria analysis reveal that the system is moderately effective for the bankline village (Kaijuri) with a score of 0.400, but considerably less effective for the char-land village (Thutia) with a score of 0.174. Inadequate communication links contribute to delayed and unreliable information, leading to higher losses and damages. The study emphasizes the necessity of building community trust by involving them in the planning and management of flood warning systems for more effective risk reduction.

A Comprehensive Review of Irrigation Practices and Challenges in Bangladesh: Pathways to Sustainable Agricultural Productivity

A Comprehensive Review of Irrigation Practices and Challenges in Bangladesh: Pathways to Sustainable Agricultural Productivity

An Ethical Analysis of the Online Content of Assisted Reproductive Technology Centers in Bangladesh.

Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) have become a widely utilized medical technology for treating infertility worldwide. However, societies and countries have applied these technologies in accordance with their cultural practices and belief systems. This paper presents an overview of ART providers in Bangladesh and analyzes their online content in addressing potential infertile couples. Examining the topic within the context of socio-economic and public health challenges in Bangladesh, particularly overpopulation, poverty, and lack of education, the research conducted a web content analysis of ART providers in Bangladesh from July 1 to September 1, 2023. Twenty active ART providers were identified using Google searches and an exploratory key. The analysis considered locations, landing page information, ethical standards, quality certification, foreign affiliations, and success rates. The findings revealed a concentration of centers in urban areas, raising concerns about equitable access. The absence of regulation and guidelines, coupled with the lack of ART clinic registration, highlighted potential risks to patient well-being. Landing page statements utilized highly emotive language and ambiguous terms, raising ethical concerns. The absence of explicit mention of quality standards, including ISO 9001:2000 certification, indicated potential gaps in transparency. Foreign affiliations were employed for credibility, raising concerns of misleading advertising. Limited and ambiguous reporting of success rates posed challenges for informed decision-making. Evident exploitative and commercialized practices raised concerns about potentially commodifying reproductive services. The study emphasizes the need for regulatory frameworks, transparency in reporting, adherence to ethical advertising, and increased cultural sensitivity to enhance the ethical standards of ART providers in Bangladesh.

One Health: Status, opportunities and challenges in Bangladesh

One Health: Status, opportunities and challenges in Bangladesh

Revolutionizing Organizational Communication in Industry 4.0: Unlocking Opportunities and Overcoming Challenges in Bangladesh

This paper examines the impact of Industry 4.0 on organizational communication, exploring the opportunities and challenges presented by this revolutionary paradigm shift. The study employs a qualitative research methodology, drawing on academic literature, case studies, and in-depth interviews with national and international organizations. By evaluating the importance of effective communication in the Internet of Things (IoT) era, the paper assesses the opportunities and identifies the challenges of Industry 4.0 in organizational communication. The study delves into the complex relationship between technology and communication, outlining best practices for implementing communication tools and artificial intelligence (AI) in Industry 4.0. Effective communication is crucial for success in Industry 4.0, as it enables individuals to collaborate effectively and share ideas, leading to improved decision-making and problem-solving. However, information overload, miscommunication, and isolation risks must be mitigated to ensure effective communication. Investing in employee training and development, establishing clear communication protocols, and balancing virtual and face-to-face communication can help organizations manage these risks effectively. Mitigating the risks associated with organizational communication in Industry 4.0 is crucial to ensure that organizations can successfully leverage the opportunities presented by this era of digitalization. Recommendations include adopting cybersecurity measures, streamlining communication processes, protecting personal information, ensuring clarity and transparency, regularly updating data security measures, and promoting inclusive communication to overcome social barriers and ensure sustainable organizational communication.

Beyond the classroom: structural and qualitative challenges in Bangladesh’s primary education

The study provides an overview of the problems in the primary education system of Bangladesh by highlighting issues such as teacher-student ratio variations, unqualified teachers, different educational systems, and coordination issues in primary schools. The adverse impact of poverty on children’s schooling, worsened by health and nutrition problems, is identified as a major barrier to academic achievement. This study employed a sociological perspective to systematically investigate and identify the structural inequities inherent within the primary education system. The study analyzed news articles from Bangladesh’s most popular newspaper in 2023 to identify pressing issues in the primary education system, focusing on teacher qualifications, teacher-student ratios, and the impact of COVID-19. The findings were triangulated with sociological theories and existing empirical investigations. While it is ethical to use public data, there are also limitations, such as potential media bias and the year of data collection, which could potentially affect generalizability. This study aims to enhance equity and academic achievement within the country’s primary education landscape by investigating and proposing solutions to the challenges of Bangladesh’s primary education.

The Child Immunisation Programmes and Challenges in Bangladesh

The Child Immunisation Programmes and Challenges in Bangladesh

CLIMATE CHANGE CHALLENGES IN BANGLADESH

Climate change is a pervasive global challenge with far-reaching implications for both the environment and human society. A thorough comprehension of these repercussions is essential in crafting effective strategies to mitigate their effects. Climate change, a major threat to sustainable development, impacts the environment, economy, natural resources, food security, human health, and physical infrastructure globally. Bangladesh stands out among affected nations due to geographical and socio-economic vulnerabilities. Despite its vulnerability, Bangladesh has successfully mitigated the impact of extreme events over the years. This study focuses on examining climate change, its outcomes, and mitigation initiatives in Bangladesh. It endeavors to offer a comprehensive analysis of the current climate scenario in Bangladesh, delving into pivotal trends, impacts, adaptation strategies, and evaluating the effectiveness of national policies, legal frameworks, involvement of local governments, non-governmental organizations, and international collaborative efforts in developing an efficient disaster risk reduction and anticipatory action system. Despite achievements, safeguarding the livelihoods and properties of vulnerable communities from disaster-induced loss and damage remains a challenge. Additionally, addressing past adaptation failures is crucial. The paper highlights the necessity to enhance disaster risk reduction, green economy, promote economic development, implement government policies, and bolster anticipatory action systems, emphasizing the pivotal role of establishing a locally led climate-resilient system in addressing these challenges.

Small Fish Big Impact: Improving Nutrition during Pregnancy and Lactation, and Empowerment for Marginalized Women.

Undernutrition and micronutrient deficiencies such as anemia are considered significant public health challenges in Bangladesh, which enhancing fish consumption is a well-established food-based intervention to address these. This paper documents the establishment of community-based fish chutney production and reports the impact of its consumption on mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) and hemoglobin (Hb) levels among targeted 150 pregnant and lactating women (PLW) in rural Bangladesh. A fish chutney was developed using locally available ingredients followed by a series of laboratory tests, including nutrient composition, shelf-life and food safety. A community-based fish chutney production process was designed to: (1) supply locally available ingredients for processing; (2) establish two fish drying sites; (3) initiate a community-based production site; and (4) distribute fish chutney to PLW for one year by six women nutrition field facilitators. Then a pre- and post-intervention study was designed for a selected 150 PLW to receive 30 g of fish chutney daily for 12 months. Differences in mean MUAC and Hb levels pre- and post-consumption were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance. Consumption of 30 g of fish-chutney resulted in significant increases of the mean values of Hb levels and MUAC among the targeted PLW.

Deficiencies of women's participation in climate governance and sustainable development challenges in Bangladesh

AbstractIn Bangladesh, women endure the consequences of climate change while also serving a crucial role in domestic and community‐led climate change responses. Given the gender power dynamics that have developed in Bangladesh, integrating women as distinguishable actors and effective agents in climate governance remains a challenge. Bangladesh is a traditionally patriarchal society, and because of deeply ingrained gender inequalities, men dominate the family, community, and society. Most research has been conducted on women's vulnerability and victims, but only a few were conducted on how women can be change‐makers. This research found that with women's contribution and equal participation, achieving effective climate governance in Bangladesh is possible. The study also discovered that the absence of women from climate governance perpetuates gender inequality and makes it more challenging to achieve sustainable development objectives. The intricate relationships between gender equality, efficient climate governance, and the more general aim of sustainable development within the context of Bangladesh are explored in this study. In light of the findings, the study argues for and puts forward policy proposals for recognizing women's active contribution as change makers and supporting gender equality as a crucial strategy in climate governance in Bangladesh.

Primary PCI-A Real Life Challenge in Bangladesh

Primary PCI-A Real Life Challenge in Bangladesh

Spatio-temporal pattern and associate meteorological factors of airborne diseases in Bangladesh using geospatial mapping and spatial regression model.

Airborne diseases due to climate change pose significant public health challenges in Bangladesh. Little was known about the spatio-temporal pattern of airborne diseases at the district level in the country. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the spatio-temporal pattern and associated meteorological factors of airborne diseases in Bangladesh using exploratory analysis and spatial regression models. This study used district-level reported cases of airborne diseases (meningococcal, measles, mumps, influenza, tuberculosis, and encephalitis) and meteorological data (temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and precipitation) from 2017 to 2020. Geospatial mapping and spatial error regression models were utilized to analyze the data. From 2017 to 2020, a total of 315 meningococcal, 5159 measles, 1341 mumps, 346 influenza, 4664 tuberculosis, and 229 encephalitis cases were reported in Bangladesh. Among airborne diseases, measles demonstrated the highest prevalence, featuring a higher incidence rate in the coastal Bangladeshi districts of Lakshmipur, Patuakhali, and Cox's Bazar, as well as in Maulvibazar and Bandarban districts from 2017 to 2020. In contrast, tuberculosis (TB) emerged as the second most prevalent disease, with a higher incidence rate observed in districts such as Khagrachhari, Rajshahi, Tangail, Bogra, and Sherpur. The spatial error regression model revealed that among climate variables, mean (β = 9.56, standard error [SE]: 3.48) and maximum temperature (β = 1.19, SE: 0.40) were significant risk factors for airborne diseases in Bangladesh. Maximum temperature positively influenced measles (β = 2.74, SE: 1.39), whereas mean temperature positively influenced both meningococcal (β = 5.57, SE: 2.50) and mumps (β = 11.99, SE: 3.13) diseases. The findings from the study provide insights for planning early warning, prevention, and control strategies to combat airborne diseases in Bangladesh and similar endemic countries. Preventive measures and enhanced monitoring should be taken in some high-risk districts for airborne diseases in the country.

Gravitating towards Artificial Intelligence on Anti-Money Laundering A PRISMA Based Systematic Review

In Bangladesh, like many other countries, the implementation of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) measures plays a crucial role in the fight against financial offences and the maintenance of the financial system's integrity. The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the technologies for AML that has emerged as a promising approach to enhance the detection and prevention of financial crimes. The researcher aims to investigate the current state of AML, the impact of AI, the roles involved, and the legislation to achieve economic stability for the transformation of Bangladesh into a smart nation by 2041. In this systematic review study, the PRISMA framework is utilized to provide a comprehensive analysis of existing literature on the application of AI in AML, with a focus on risks, laws, and implications, particularly within the context of Bangladesh. The review synthesizes findings from diverse sources (Web of Sciences, Scopus, PubMed, and DOAJ indexing articles and reports) including academic research, industry reports, and regulatory documents, to assess the effectiveness, challenges, and ethical considerations associated with AI-driven AML solutions. Through a structured search strategy and rigorous selection criteria, the researchers discovered a total of 299 research papers, consisting of 181 latest studies and 117 previous relevant studies identified and analyzed to elucidate key trends, methodologies, and gaps in the current landscape of AI-enabled AML practices. The review also offers insights and recommendations for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers interested in leveraging AI technologies to combat money laundering effectively while navigating regulatory frameworks and safeguarding privacy rights. By critically examining the intersection of AI, AML, and legal frameworks, this study contributes to the ongoing discourse on the role of technology in addressing financial crime challenges in Bangladesh and beyond.

Comparison of response and toxicity of induction chemotherapy with cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil versus cisplatin and paclitaxel followed by concurrent chemoradiotherapy in advanced head and neck cancer

Background: Head and neck cancer poses a prevalent oncological challenge in Bangladesh, often diagnosed in advanced stages. Standard treatment for inoperable cases involves concurrent chemo-radiotherapy, but induction chemotherapy has shown significant benefits. This study aimed to compare the response and toxicity of induction chemotherapy with cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil versus cisplatin and paclitaxel followed by concurrent chemo-radiotherapy in advanced head and neck cancer. Methods: From January 2019 to June 2020, a multicenter study enrolled 150 cases with inoperable squamous cell carcinomas in the head and neck. Ethical approval was obtained from Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University. Divided into two arms, Arm A had 75 patients receiving cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil, while Arm B had 75 patients receiving cisplatin and paclitaxel for three cycles. Results: After 24 weeks of treatment, complete response rates were 53.33% in Arm A and 56.0% in Arm B, with partial response rates of 29.33% and 32.0% respectively. Overall response was 82.66% in Arm A and 88.0% in Arm B, showing no statistically significant difference (p>0.05). Arm A exhibited more anemia, oral mucositis, skin toxicity, and hand- foot syndrome, while Arm B had higher neuropathy. Hematological and non-hematologic toxicities during concurrent chemo-radiotherapy were similar in both arms. Conclusions: Induction chemotherapy with cisplatin and paclitaxel, followed by concurrent chemo-radiotherapy, is equally effective as induction chemotherapy with cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil, followed by concurrent chemo-radiotherapy, in treating advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. However, the former regimen demonstrates significantly fewer toxicities, indicating a safer treatment option.

Towards comprehensive urban sustainability: navigating predominant urban challenges and assessing their severity differential in Bangladeshi city corporations

Purpose Despite city authorities in Bangladesh being concerned about urban sustainability, they often face difficulties in addressing predominant urban challenges threatening urban sustainability, due to limited relevant literature. To reduce this gap, this study aims to address the predominant urban challenges and assess their severity levels in four city corporations of Bangladesh, e.g. Rajshahi, Sylhet, Barishal, and Gazipur. Design/methodology/approach Using a mixed-method approach, this study rigorously analyzed field-level data obtained from 1,200 residents across selected cities using diverse statistical techniques. The quantitative analysis included descriptive analysis, exploratory factor analysis, and chi-square tests, whereas qualitative insights were derived through thematic analysis. Findings The study uncovered nine predominant urban challenges under two crucial factors “Feeble Urban Management” and “Illicit Activities” that collectively explain 62.20% variance. “Feeble Urban Management” explains 44.17% variance, whereas “Illicit Activities” accounts for 18.13%. Within these challenges, uncontrolled urban sprawl, inadequate disaster management, congested roads, and shabby drainage and waste management pose significant threats to urban sustainability. Illicit activities, manifested by encroachment on water sources, grabbing roadside, destruction of natural properties, and activities undermining social security, compound the urban sustainability issue. Severity analysis reveals Sylhet (54.5%), Rajshahi (46.4%), and Barishal (31.2%) as highly impacted, whereas Gazipur exhibits moderate severity (66.7%). Originality/value The findings of this study reveal intrinsic insights into urban challenges in Bangladesh that will provide valuable guidance to city authorities, equipping them to implement integrated and effective initiatives and programs that overcome these predominant urban challenges, with a specific focus on Rajshahi, Sylhet, and Barishal city corporations.