General Population In India Research Articles

Assessment of lipid profile and its correlation with ASCVD risk in the general population

Background: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is a major global health issue with high morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs, emphasizing the need for effective risk assessment for prevention and management. This study aimed to assess the lipid profile of the general population and establish correlations with their ASCVD risk. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among the general population in India. Participants were invited through advertisements to attend the ASCVD camp for a lipid profile check-up. Results: A total of 1068 participants were included, with a mean age of 52.7 years. The majority of participants were male (69.8%). Approximately 33% of participants had low ASCVD risk, followed by 31.6% with high risk, and 26.7% with intermediate risk. In the high ASCVD risk group, participants aged ≥60 years were significantly higher compared to those in the low risk, borderline risk and intermediate risk groups (P<0.001). The mean total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) were significantly increased in participants with high ASCVD risk compared to intermediate, borderline and low risk (P<0.001 and P=0.001). The mean HDL cholesterol level was significantly lower in male participants compared to female participants (P<0.001). There was a positive correlation between age (r=0.783), total cholesterol (r=0.372) and the ASCVD risk score (P<0.001 for both). There was negative correlation between HDL and ASCVD risk score (r=-124; P<0.001). Conclusion: This study demonstrates a significant association between lipid profiles and ASCVD risk. Age, total cholesterol, and LDL levels are positively correlated with ASCVD risk, while HDL levels show a negative correlation.

Higher Prevalence of Hepatitis B and C Infections among Indian Patients with Von Willebrand Disease

Background: The use of recombinant coagulation factors has reduced the incidence of hepatitis B and C infections in hemophilia patients. As recombinant von Willebrand factor is not easily available, patients with von Willebrand disease (VWD) may be at higher risk for acquiring hepatitis B and C infections. The prevalence of hepatitis B and C infections in the Indian population is ~0.95% and ~0.3%, respectively. Aims: This single tertiary center study aimed to assess the prevalence of hepatitis B and C infections and the profile of liver disease caused by these viruses among patients with VWD. Methodology: We retrospectively enrolled VWD patients treated in our center from January 2012 to December 2022 and analyzed the prevalence of hepatitis B and C infection and stage of liver disease. Results: Among 189 patients with VWD during the study period, 5 of 61 (8.1%) VWD patients screened were hepatitis B surface antigen positive (age: 34 [24–42] years; median (range); plasma VWF antigen: 10.1, [0–40] IU/dL). One patient had cholangiohepatoma at presentation, whereas none had chronic liver disease. Four of five patients received multiple bloodproduct transfusions before coming to our institution, with 10 (7–18) years interval between 1st transfusion and to detection of hepatitis B infection. Four of the 47 VWD patients (8.5%) screened were positive for hepatitis C virus antibody (48 [43–59] years, plasma VWF antigen: 20 [0–21.5] IU/dL). One patient had chronic liver disease. All four patients received multiple blood product transfusions before coming to our institution, with 15.5 (2–39) years interval between 1st transfusion and to the detection of hepatitis C infection. Conclusions: The prevalence of hepatitis B infection (8.1%) and hepatitis C infection (8.5%) was 8-fold and 28-fold higher, respectively, in VWD patients than the general population in India. VWD patients remain at high risk for acquiring transfusion-transmitted viral infections and appropriate interventions are needed to address this.

Primary care perspectives on leptin and adiponectin in north Indian families with metabolic syndrome.

Urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and dietary changes have all contributed to an increase in the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in Indian populations during the past 10 years. Numerous markers have been investigated to determine if a person is at risk for developing MetS, with the bulk of them having to do with adipose tissue. Recently, adiponectin and leptin, two biomarkers with a high correlation to cardiometabolic health or disease, are of particular interest. In the general population of India, 100 persons were included. Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, plasma lipids, adiponectin, leptin, insulin, and the homeostasis model were measured to assess insulin resistance. We used binary logistic regression analysis to determine the connection between the researched factors and MetS and Spearman's analyses to evaluate correlations. In all, 200 participants (100 men and 100 women) were enrolled in the study. Men's and women's median ages were 53 and 48, respectively (P < 0.05). Men had significantly greater WHR, SBP, and DBP (P < 0.05, respectively). Women had significantly higher levels of triglycerides, LDL, insulin, adiponectin, leptin, and HOMA-IR (P < 0.05, respectively). Leptin-to-adiponectin ratio was significantly and positively correlated with BMI (r = 0.597, P < 0.001), waist circumference (r = 0.576, P < 0.001), triglycerides (r = 0.190, P = 0.001), insulin levels (r = 0.329, P < 0.000), and HOMA-IR (r = 0.301, P < 0.000). In this study, higher levels of LAR, together with higher levels of leptin and lower levels of adiponectin, were found to be significantly linked with MetS. To properly determine whether LAR can be a predictor of MetS, independent of confounding factors, research with adequate design must be conducted.

Clinical Sports physiotherapy practice in India- it’s time to upgrade with technology and evidence based practice

In India, the job of a sports physiotherapist is very demanding because, due to the increased number of injuries in all sports, it is claimed that athletes require complete care to recover and prevent injuries. At present, the general population in India, looking to lead a healthy life, also participates in recreational sports activities. So sports physiotherapy is also recommended for the general population.After finishing their education, physiotherapists play a crucial and essential role in the recovery of sports players. Sports physiotherapists' main duties include handling on-field injuries, preventing injuries, treating injuries in the outpatient setting, helping patients recover from arthroscopic surgery, and travelling with sports teams or individuals for short or infrequently longer contract periods. This article summarize the suggestions and solutions to improve the standards of sports physiotherapy practice in india.

Influence of lifestyle factors-sleep patterns and stress on skin health and ageing amongst the general population in India

Influence of lifestyle factors-sleep patterns and stress on skin health and ageing amongst the general population in India

Is Aspartate Aminotransferase to Platelet Ratio Index a Better Noninvasive Score for Predicting Advanced Fibrosis in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Patients?

In the 21st century, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most prevalent liver disorder. The prevalence of NAFLD within the general population in India ranges from 9 to 53%. The gold standard for assessing the severity of liver fibrosis is liver biopsy. However, due to various difficulties involved with liver biopsy, it is imperative to identify different non-invasive tools that can replace liver biopsy. A prospective observational study of 130 patients meeting the inclusion criteria for NAFLD was done for a period of 18 months. We aimed to compare the performance characteristics of different noninvasive scores [fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) score, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score (NFS), and aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI)] in predicting advanced fibrosis as assessed by FibroScan. In the study, 76.9% of patients were male. Advanced fibrosis was seen in 12.3% of the patients. Majority of the patients with advanced fibrosis had metabolic syndrome. Based on the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC), the new cut-off for ruling out advanced fibrosis for FIB-4, NFS, and APRI were 1.18, -0.9, and 0.65, respectively, and APRI had the best AUROC (0.768). Abnormal glycemic status and metabolic syndrome were risk factors for advanced fibrosis. The newly derived cut-offs for the FIB-4 score, NFS score, and APRI score had a better Negative predictive value compared to the original cut-offs. Bhayani PD, Parameswaran SA, Palaniswamy KR, et al. Is Aspartate Aminotransferase to Platelet Ratio Index a Better Noninvasive Score for Predicting Advanced Fibrosis in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Patients? Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2024;14(1):35-39.

Quality of Life and its sociodemographic determinants: a population-based study from rural Punjab, India

BackgroundQuality of Life (QoL) is an individual’s subjective perception of well-being within their cultural context. While most QoL studies focus on individuals with certain health conditions, factors such as sex, marital status, education, and family structure can influence QoL beyond age and health conditions. Considering the limited studies on QoL in the general Indian population, especially from rural areas, the present study aims to explore the QoL and sociodemographic factors affecting QoL among community-dwelling adults in rural Punjab.MethodsThis community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 931 individuals of both sexes (59.6% female) aged 20–75 years residing in rural areas of Mansa, Punjab, India. Sociodemographic data were collected using an interview schedule, and QoL was measured using the WHOQOL-BREF.ResultsThe overall mean QoL score was found to be 67.44 ± 14.7. The most affected QoL was in the physical domain (mean = 60.203 ± 13.49), followed by psychological (mean = 65.67 ± 18.3), social-relationship (mean = 69.88 ± 26.43), and environmental domains (mean = 74.05 ± 20.58). Adjusted logistic regression analysis revealed female sex, advanced age (age group ≥ 60 years), illiteracy, and unmarried status to be positively associated and family size of 6–10 members to be negatively associated with poor QoL.ConclusionThe study suggests that females, elderlies, illiterates, and unmarried individuals may be at a higher risk of poor QoL. Further, education and a bigger family size appear to increase subjective well-being among participants.

A Scoping Review of the Current Landscape of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis and Postexposure Prophylaxis in India.

This scoping review aimed to review and summarize the evidence related to the attitudes toward human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)/postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) among people at risk of HIV, health care workers (HCWs), and the general population in India. A literature search of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and PsycINFO was conducted from January 1, 2002, to February 1, 2024. The search field contained a combination of keywords and MeSH terms such as: HIV, PrEP, PEP knowledge, awareness, willingness, and practice. Studies published in English language, conducted in India, and having reported at least one prespecified outcome related to PrEP or PEP were included. Of 599 studies identified, 48 were included (PrEP, n = 17 studies; PEP, n = 31 studies). Among the people at risk of HIV, awareness about PrEP was very low (17% or less). However, willingness to use PrEP and interest in knowing more or obtaining PrEP were reported to be high (84-95%). Among the health care professionals, the knowledge and awareness of PEP and its dosing schedule varied from 20% to 96%. The uptake to prevent this occupational hazard was reported to be poor (12-36%). This scoping review highlighted critical research gaps related to PrEP and PEP in India, related to PrEP adherence, outcomes related to nonoccupational PEP, HCW readiness to provide PrEP, etc. Overall, this study indicated the need to design policies and implement interventions aimed toward improving the knowledge, awareness, and uptake of PrEP/PEP in India. An increased focus on improving PrEP/PEP access in India through government schemes at a lower cost is imperative.

Anemia Awareness Program in a Suburban Middle School: A Pilot Study Promoting Students as Public Health Advocates in Their Community.

Almost a quarter of the people on earth are anemic, and most of them reside in regions of sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Anemia in children is linked with impaired cognitive and motor development and affects the future earning capacity. The most common cause of anemia is iron deficiency. The Indian Government has initiated multiple programs for the eradication of anemia. The prevalence of anemia has not decreased despite the improvements in the country's economy. It increased from 58.7% in 2015-16 to 67.1% in 2019-21 in childrenand from 50.4% in 2015-16 to 52.2% in 2019-21 in pregnant women. Maternal education, socioeconomic status, and number of children in the family are some factors that influence the prevalence of anemia. As these factors cannot be improved in a short time, we aimed to increase awareness about this issue by targeting school students from rural/semi-urban backgrounds. This pilot study aimed at promoting school students as public health advocates in their community. Anemia Awareness Program was conducted ina local middle school in the suburban area, which was attended by 153 class eight students (72 female). Pre- and post-test questionnaires comprising 20 multiple-choice/true-false type questions were used. Pre- and post-test scores were obtained. The second part of the study was the identification of students with anemia. Blood hemoglobin levels of 127 students (58 female) were measured from venous blood samples. The students were also asked to inform their friends/relatives about anemia and to send people with symptoms of anemia to the free two-day Anemia Awareness Camp organized by the Medical College Hospital for check-ups. The mean post-test score (15.68/20) was much higher than the pretest score (2.99/20). Thirty-eight (25 female) out of 127 students had mild/moderate microcytic hypochromic anemia, suggesting iron deficiency. Thirty-two persons visited the free health camp to receive information from the students, of whom four had normal hemoglobin levels. This pilot study showed that physician-conducted anemia awareness programs are relatively low-cost methods to spread information amongthe general population in India.

Social media use and vision impairment in adults between the ages of 18 and 35 years in India.

Social media is used by >4.48 billion people worldwide. Despite its popularity, vision-impaired individuals struggle to use social media given visual inaccessibility of content and lack of access to Internet/Wireless-Fidelity-enabled devices. Our study explores visually impaired adult's use of social media in comparison to a control group. This study aimed to report the demographic profile and patterns of social media use among adults with vision impairment (VI) aged 18 to 35 years and compare it with an age-matched normally sighted group in India. In addition, we explored barriers to use of social media among adults with VI. Vision-impaired and normally sighted adults (controls) aged 18 to 35 years at L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India, answered a questionnaire about social media use (e.g., platform used). Four hundred twenty-two individuals (201 VI, 221 controls) participated. Normally sighted adults (98%) used social media more than the VI group (81%; p<0.001). Vision-impaired users were predominantly male (85%) and unemployed (57%; p<0.00001 for both). There was no significant difference in educational level between groups (p=0.17). Smartphones were the most popular device used (VI, 161 [99%]; control, 206 [95%]), with tablet PC/iPad being the least popular (VI, 5 [3%]; control, 12 [6%]). Adults with VI and controls commonly used WhatsApp as communication platforms, and Facebook and Twitter as networking platforms. Approximately one-third of individuals across both social media user groups reported barriers to use (VI, 48 [30%]; control, 74 [34%]; p<0.001). Vision-impaired individuals cited accessibility issues of having to rely on audio over vision to navigate social media, whereas controls reported having to share a phone. The proportion of social media usage among VI adults is high (81%) and is substantially higher than the 33% reported in the general Indian population. Vision-impaired adults who used social media were male with moderate VI and were less likely to be employed compared with controls.

Awareness, perception, and utilization of the benefits of recently introduced health schemes among the general population of India: A narrative review

Several health schemes have been introduced by the Government of India in recent years. It becomes essential to know the usefulness of these schemes. This narrative review was done to discuss the awareness, perception, and utilisation of the benefits of recent health schemes. Four schemes either introduced or revised between January 2016 and December 2021 namely AB PM-JAY, PMBJP, NPY, and PMSMA were discussed. Thirteen original articles related to these schemes fulfilling inclusion/exclusion criteria were identified using Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, Embase, and PubMed databases.&#x0D; &#x0D; Awareness about AB PM-JAY was absent among 22.7% to 77% participants. The prerequisites for beneficiaries like non-payment of professional tax and non-ownership of certain household equipment were responsible for missing the benefits among some poor participants. About one-fourth of the participants reported poor awareness and attitude towards PMBJP. To support PMBJP, people wanted doctors to take the initiative by endorsing and prescribing generic medicines available under this scheme. Awareness about NPY was absent among 8.5% participants. As many as 21.5% to 71.5% of tuberculosis patients did not receive its benefits. Only 7.3% to 52.6% of the tuberculosis patients received the first incentive within two months of intensive phase. Common problems reported were unavailability of savings bank account or Aadhaar number, particularly among those from rural areas. About one-fourth of patients utilised the money to meet their family expenses. Hardly 5% were aware of PMSMA and among them just 32% had utilised antenatal care services. Counselling services were not offered to some beneficiaries. Few shortcomings in these health schemes were identified which need to be addressed by the stakeholders.

Distribution of ABO and Rhesus (D) blood group antigens among the Indian Kami population from the Sub-Himalayan region of West Bengal and Sikkim, India

Abstract BACKGROUND: Limited information is available regarding the distribution of ABO and Rhesus (Rh) blood groups among the populations from the sub-Himalayan regions. The present study was undertaken to understand the phenotypic, genotypic, and allelic frequencies of ABO and Rh antigens among the Kami population. METHODS: A total of 1420 Kami individuals were included in the study from the sub-Himalayan region of West Bengal and Sikkim. The ABO and RhD blood groups were determined among 158 individuals by standard slide agglutination method, and from 1262 individuals blood group, data were collected who had undergone routine blood group tests in diagnostic laboratories. RESULTS: The frequency of blood group O (31.06%) was found to be the highest followed by B (29.15%), A (27.54%), and AB (12.25%). A total of 97.89% individuals were Rh (D) positive and 2.11% were Rh (D) negative. The allele frequencies of ABO were found to be 0.200 for IA (p), 0.243 for IB (q), and 0.557 for IO (r). For Rh (D), the calculated gene frequencies were 0.855 for Rh positive (ID) and 0.145 for Rh negative (Id). Among the subcaste of Kami population, a significantly high frequency of blood group A was observed among Baraily and Lamgade, O among Sashankar, Dural, Diyali, and Dutraj, and B among Ramudamu, Koirala, and Silal. CONCLUSION: The study is the first of its kind to comprehensively describe the ABO blood group distribution among the Kami population which shows the same trend as the general Indian population.

Acceptance and Attitudes towards Covid-19 Vaccines: A Cross-Sectional Study from India

ABSTRACT: COVID-19 is a pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 – 2 that caused a devastating impact and has affected human population globally. The mitigation measures to impede and contain the spread of the COVID-19 disease included lockdowns, social distancing, and use of masks, hand sanitization &amp; other basic hygiene practices. Administration of vaccines was considered the most effective strategy to reduce the risk of the disease. Several vaccines developed against multiple variants of Coronavirus to combat the dreadful disease. The project was taken with the objective to know the perceptions of people about the COVID-19 vaccines and was intended to evaluate the awareness, attitude, and factors determining their acceptance or hesitancy towards the vaccine among the Indian population. This study was conducted using a snowball sampling technique employing a cross-sectional and web-based online survey. A self-administered questionnaire was prepared and circulated among the general Indian population and feedback was collected and analyzed on knowledge and awareness, attitudes, and perceptions about COVID-19 vaccines. A total of 1,507 respondents from different states of India have participated in the survey. A considerable percentage of the population approximately 90% was fully vaccinated due to concerted efforts of Government authorities and health officials. The majority of the people were hesitant and unsure to administer booster doses of vaccines. The results suggested that the majority of the Indian population had good knowledge and awareness about Covid 19 vaccines and had a very positive attitude and acceptance towards vaccines but showed a lack of interest towards booster doses. Hence, various strategies need to be formulated to update the information to the public through awareness programs and their effective implementation.

Haemoglobinopathies: A Review on Statistical Modelling Perspective (Haemoglobinopathies: Statistical Modelling Techniques)

Haemoglobinopathies indicate a group of monogenic disorders. The prevalence of Haemoglobinopathies differs based on geographical regions and is higher in tropical countries. Literature has identified that Haemoglobinopathies are higher in tribal and ethnic groups compared to the general population in India. This narrative review explores the methods to analyse data related to Haemoglobinopathies, identifies the research gaps and gains insights on model building and prediction of Haemoglobinopathies. This narrative review includes articles focusing on Haemoglobinopathies, Anaemia and other related disorders, published from 2008 onwards. Full-text and accessible articles found in relevant databases were included. Statistical and a few other techniques like Logistic Regression, Bayesian Modelling, Genetic Risk Scoring, Structural Equation Modelling, Multilevel Tests, Longitudinal Models, Machine Learning Algorithms and Genotyping methods were used to know the risk of acquiring Haemoglobinopathies and to identify important genetic variants. From the findings, it was observed that many studies were conducted to identify the prevalence of Haemoglobinopathies among the general population, but only few in the tribal population. Models based on machine learning algorithms were used for prediction involving haematological parameters and genetic variants, whereas the statistical techniques for prediction include demographic, nutritional, economic, cultural and social indicators.

Exploring the enigma of low prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder in India.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a chronic psychiatric condition associated with significant distress and dysfunction. While worldwide estimates of prevalence range from 3.9% to 24%, little research has been conducted to identify the prevalence of PTSD in the general population of India. This study analyzes data from the National Mental Health Survey 2015-2016, a comprehensive epidemiological study of mental health disorders in India, to explore the unique characteristics and prevalence of PTSD in the Indian population. The National Mental Health Survey 2015-2016 employed a multiple-stage, stratified, cluster-sampling methodology, covering 39,532 individuals in 12 states of India. The Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) version 6.0.0 was used to diagnose psychiatric disorders, including PTSD. A detailed analysis of sociodemographic profiles, prevalence patterns, comorbidities, economic and social impact, and treatment-seeking behavior was conducted. Firth penalized logistic regression was employed to identify associated sociodemographic factors. The study revealed a low prevalence of PTSD in India at 0.2%, significantly lower than global averages. Factors associated with PTSD included female gender, middle age (40-49 years), and urban residence. The study also highlighted a high rate of comorbid mood and anxiety disorders, substantial disability, poor treatment-seeking behavior, and significant suicidal risk among individuals with PTSD. Our findings underscore the need for culturally informed diagnostic and management programs to accurately identify and address PTSD in the Indian population. Cultural nuances, stigma, and the use of Western-derived diagnostic instruments likely contribute to the underidentification and undertreatment of PTSD in India. The study emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing these challenges to improve mental health outcomes in India.

Evaluation of risk factors for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in India: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

NAFLD is emerging as an important cause of liver disease in India. It is estimated that 16-32% of general population in India (nearly 120 million) has NAFLD. This study aimed to identify the risk factors of NAFLD and to identify the association of lifestyle (dietary and physical activity), genetic, and environmental factors with NAFLD in India. A systematic literature search was conducted using an international electronic database: PubMed (MEDLINE) and Google Scholar from the date of inception 31st March 2021 to 28th September 2021. We included studies examining patients with NAFLD: Adults above 18 years of age. Studies with or without a control population were both eligible. The studies with a diagnosis of NAFLD based solely on abnormal liver tests were excluded. We tried to get unpublished data but they were not of the quality of inclusion. Meta-analysis was performed using the software STATA 14.2 (StataCorp, College Station, TX, USA). For each of the studies, the standard error was calculated using the reported number of outcomes and the sample size. A forest plot was used to graphically represent the study-specific and pooled prevalence estimates for overall and subgroup analysis. In a systematic review and meta-analysis of 8 studies including data from over 1800 individuals, we found that among components of lipid profile, LDL and HDL had a negative effects on NAFLD while triglycerides had a positive effect on NAFLD. Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Hypertension, and Obesity were the potential risk factors for NAFLD but the evidence generated was only from single studies.

THE IMPACT OF SCAPULAR MOBILIZATION ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF ROM EXERCISES IN PATIENTS WITH ADHESIVE CAPSULITIS

Objective: Adhesive capsulitis is a condition characterized by shoulder pain and limited motion. It primarily affects women and can be secondary or idiopathic. Risk factors include diabetes, rotator cuff impairment, and cardiovascular disease. Nevasier first identified the pathology and differentiated it from periarthritis.&#x0D; Methods: Adhesive capsulitis has a prevalence of 2-5% in the general population of India, with the highest occurrence in the mid-50s. A study reported an annual incidence of shoulder pain of 14.7 per 1000 individuals and a lifetime prevalence of up to 70%. The exact cause of adhesive capsulitis is uncertain, but it is associated with systemic disorders and underlying conditions such as trauma, avascular necrosis, osteoarthritis, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and rheumatoid arthritis. Other clinical diseases, reflex sympathetic dystrophy, and age between 40 and 65 are also linked to the condition.&#x0D; Results: Our study provides showed in Group A, consisting of 9 males and 6 females, and Group B consisting of 8 males and 7 females. Overall, the study group comprised 17 males and 13 females. Additionally, the analysis of pre-test and post-test values of SPADI and VAS scores revealed significant improvements in Group A, with a significant decrease in SPADI scores from 70.0 to 41.73 (p = 0.037). However, the decrease in VAS scores from 5.8 to 3.2 was not statistically significant (p = 0.35). In Group B, although there were reductions in both SPADI and VAS scores, the changes were not statistically significant.&#x0D; Conclusion: Adhesive capsulitis is a common condition characterized by shoulder pain and limited motion. It primarily affects women and can be secondary or idiopathic. The exact cause is unknown, but it is associated with systemic disorders and underlying conditions. Diagnosis is clinical, with imaging used for additional information. Treatment includes oral NSAIDs, steroid injections, and physiotherapy. Scapular mobilization techniques may improve outcomes. Further research, such as randomized controlled trials, is needed to evaluate their effectiveness.

A study of seroprevalence and the associated risk factors of hepatitis C at a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai

BackgroundHepatitis C is a hepatotropic virus and shows varied presentation of signs and symptoms in positive cases. The estimated global prevalence of hepatitis C is around 1%. There is lack of data in general population in India on prevalence of hepatitis C, except in targeted population like blood banks. Aims & objectivesThe study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital to estimate seroprevalence of hepatitis C in both sexes & different age groups, association of hepatitis C with signs and symptoms, possible risk factors for the transmission and co morbidities. MethodA prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of one year (2018–2019) at a tertiary care hospital and included 600 subjects at a tertiary care hospital. A detailed history of patient was recorded. Five milliliter of blood was collected for testing Hepatitis C by ELISA test. Results were analyzed statistically. ResultHepatitis C seroprevalence of 1.8% was observed in present study. It was predominantly seen in age group 0–10yrs (7%). Significant risk factors for hepatitis C were multiple blood transfusions (38.5%). Thalassemia was a statistically significant comorbidity (1.5%) associated with hepatitis C. ConclusionHepatitis C was found more prevalent in 0–10year thalassemic age group. So, a continuous periodic screening of Hepatitis C especially in high-risk groups, like cases of Thalassemia and also in blood transfusion recipients is essential for an early diagnosis.An early diagnosis can improve clinical outcome in the patient, as appropriate therapy and management can be initiated at the earliest, thus, decreasing mortality and morbidity seen in hepatitis C cases.

USE OF SPICES AS IMMUNITY BOOSTER A PRELIMINARY SURVEY WITHIN THE GENERAL POPULATION

Immunity is the body’s defence system to fight various pathogenic agents including bacteria, viruses, and other infectious agents. Healthy people with a healthy immune system can fight infections better than those who are immunocompromised. Studies have shown that diet plays a key role in improving the immune response. Also, the consumption of certain herbs and spices has been associated with health benefits. India is among the leading countries to consume significant amounts of spices. The consumption of spices in the form of a concoction increased further during the COVID-19 pandemic. This concoction is traditionally called Kadha. Over time, people have realized the benefits of Kadha not just in fighting infection but in overcoming various health conditions. The current study surveyed around 83 people from India to understand the use of Kadha within the general population in India as a source to boost immunity. It also aimed to understand their perspective on the most suitable spice. This preliminary survey highlights that among the surveyed population, the majority of the participants considered Kadha as an immune booster (75%) that helps in relieving colds and coughs (73%). The majority of participants selected turmeric (68%) and clove (66%) as spices that help to boost immunity and fight infections.

Knowledge, attitude, and perception towards mob lynching among the general population of India: A cross-sectional study

Abstract Background: Mob lynching is violence by a crowd that results in the killing or maiming of a person or persons charged with or suspected of a crime. Lynching is an extrajudicial punishment to the accused or suspected person by a crowd or informal group without having any legal authority. In India, lynching and mob violence generally replicate internal tensions between several racial communities. Objectives: The objectives of the study are to check the attitude and gender differences and to see the predictors of mob lynching among the general population of India The study assessed the knowledge, attitude and perception of mob lynching among the general population of India. Materials and Methods: A web-based cross-sectional survey was carried out among 150 adults from March 3, 2022, to September 28, 2022. The survey was conducted online using a Google Form distributed through social media platform (E-mails, Whatsapp, or Messenger application). Participants aged 18 years and above, both male and female, consenting to participate in the study and able to understand English were included in the study. The survey took approximately 5–10 min to complete. Results: The findings of this study shows that gender, age, family income, religion, ethnicity, and education as variables that contributed significantly to the prediction of mob lynching among the general population of India [F (6,143) = 4.766; P &lt; 0.01] at 16.7% (R 2 = 0.167) variance. The remaining 83.3% was attributed to the variables not included in the study. Conclusion: The study also indicates that most of the cases of mob lynching are committed due to fake news, rumors, and hate speeches that are circulated on social media.