Good Hygiene Habits Research Articles

Factors Promoting Physical Activity and Physical Development in Early Childhood

This research explored factors promoting physical activity and development in early childhood in urban and rural areas. A sample of 488 urban and 387 rural students was selected through random sampling. Data was collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics and the chi-square test. The findings revealed that urban schools have more environmental factors promoting physical activity than rural schools. Urban students had better physical development scores than those in rural areas. The study also found that school location correlates with students' physical development in the form of good hygiene habits, consuming nutritious food and clean water, regular exercise, good body coordination, and good hand-eye coordination.

Review of Menstrual Hygiene Management Practices Among Adolescent Girls: Challenges, Health Implications, and Future Directions

Although a woman's menstruation is a normal biological process that is essential to her reproductive life, managing menstrual hygiene is still a major worldwide issue, especially for teenage girls in low- and middle-income nations. Maintaining dignity and one's physical and mental health depend on practicing proper menstrual hygiene. However, barriers to good menstrual hygiene habits persist due to cultural taboos, a lack of resources, and inadequate knowledge. Examining national and international policies targeted at resolving these concerns, this analysis examines the relationship between menstrual hygiene, adolescent health, and the right to health. The conversation emphasizes how important it is to manage menstrual hygiene in an appropriate way to prevent a girl's period from interfering with her everyday activities or undermining her self-esteem. A variety of menstruation items are assessed, with a focus on choosing the right goods to preserve hygiene, including sanitary pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and period underwear. The review also touches on the effects of menstruation problems on women's lives. The support that national and international initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP), Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK), and the Scheme for Promotion of Menstrual Hygiene provide for the management of menstrual hygiene and adolescent health are examined. In order to guarantee that teenage girls may have healthy, productive lives with dignity and respect, the article emphasizes the need for ongoing efforts to enhance menstrual hygiene management via education, access to sanitary products, and the breakdown of societal taboos.

Knowledge and practice of menstrual hygiene: a cross-sectional study among high school girls in Mangalore Taluk

Background: Understanding and practicing menstrual hygiene is crucial for women’s health globally. Unsafe menstrual hygiene practices (MHP) contribute to a lower quality of life. In impoverished nations, gender inequity, societal norms, cultural taboos, poverty, and inadequate facilities hinder meeting menstrual health demands. The study aimed to assess the level of knowledge and practice of menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls in Mangalore Taluk, Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 482 adolescent girls from government high schools in Mangalore Taluk. A cluster random sampling technique was adopted to select the schools and complete enumeration was done from each school with the aid of a semi-structured questionnaire. The data was analyzed by using SPSS v-23. Descriptive analysis showed frequency and percentage, and logistic regression explored associations between menstrual hygiene practices (MHP) and demographic variables. Results: Out of 482 participants, 82.3% got primary menses information, mostly from mothers (77.8%). About 48.5% had average menstruation knowledge, and 76.8% followed proper MHP. Urban areas showed 4.368 times higher MHP practice than rural areas, revealing a significant relationship. Conclusions: Study finds Mangalore high school girls generally maintain average menstrual hygiene practices. It is very important to set up suitable disposal facilities in schools and to organise awareness campaigns on good menstrual hygiene habits. Thus, it contributes to improving quality of life.

Relationship between Tooth Brushing and Hand Washing by Family Type among Adolescents: A 2020 Nationally Representative Korean Survey

Habits formed during adolescence tend to persist into adulthood, and correcting poor habits or behaviors during this time is more effective than at other times. Particularly, parents and caregivers should encourage good hygiene habits in their adolescent children by setting a positive example themselves. Using logistic regression, we analyzed the association between brushing teeth after lunch and washing hands before lunch by family type among 54,848 adolescents from the 17th Youth Health Behavior Survey raw data in 2021. Four logistic regression models were used to adjust for confounders hierarchically. In all models, adolescents who practiced tooth brushing after lunch were 2.09 times more likely to practice hand washing before lunch than those who did not. With and without adjustment, we found that the association between adolescents’ tooth brushing and hand washing practices in two-parent households was stronger than the association between adolescents’ tooth brushing and hand washing practices in single-parent households. Associations were found between tooth brushing and hand washing practices, and these associations were higher among adolescents in two-parent households than among adolescents in single-parent households. The finding of a significant link between family type and personal hygiene habits indicates the need for interventions to enhance the oral health of children and adolescents. Such interventions should be customized to reflect the specific characteristics of the child’s household.

A case report of disseminated cysticercosis in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Southwest China

BackgroundCysticercosis is a zoonotic parasitic disease that poses a serious threat to public health. It is widely distributed and has a high incidence rate in China. Reports of disseminated cysticercosis worldwide are rare. This article presents a case of disseminated cysticercosis in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of southwestern China.Case presentationThe patient, a 46-year-old male belonging to the Miao ethnic group, hailed from a region in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region known for its high incidence of cysticercosis. He had a habit of consuming raw pork and beef. With a history of recurrent consciousness disturbances and limb convulsions for five years, he presented with headaches and dizziness nine days prior. Comprehensive examinations were conducted on the patient. Ultimately, based on epidemiological history, imaging findings, pathogen testing, and pathological results, he was diagnosed with disseminated cysticercosis. Following anthelmintic treatment, the patient was discharged with clear consciousness, free from headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and seizures. The patient is currently under follow-up care.ConclusionIt is crucial to enhance public awareness, promote health education, and cultivate good hygiene habits, as these are essential measures in reducing the incidence of cysticercosis.

Age-period-cohort analysis of epidemiological trends in pelvic fracture in China from 1992 to 2021 and forecasts for 2046.

This study explored the epidemiological trends in pelvic fracture (PF) in China from 1992 to 2021, analyze their relationships with age-period-cohort (APC) factors, and predict the trends of PF from 2022 to 2046. Incidence and years lived with disabilities (YLDs) of PF among sexes in China from 1992 to 2021 were obtained through the 2021 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database. Trends in the incidence and YLDs were described, and a joinpoint regression model was used. The APC model was used to explore the effects of age, period, and cohort on the incidence and YLDs. Nordpred forecasted the incidence and YLDs in China from 2022 to 2046. In 2021, there were an estimated 0.63 million incidence cases and 0.33 million of YLDs, respectively. The number and age-standardized rate (ASR) of incidence and YLDs were both gradually increased. The average annual percent change (AAPC) in incidence and YLDs for men were 0.26% and -0.17%, respectively. For women, the AAPC values for incidence and YLDs were -0.03% and -0.57% (p < 0. 001), respectively. The relative risk (RR) of PF increases with age, with the lowest risk in those aged 10-14 years for incidence and aged 1-4 for YLDs and the highest risk in those aged >95 years for incidence and aged 90-94 years for YLDs. The period effect showed a totally increase in the risk across the general, male, and female populations. Cohort effects indicated a totally significant decline for both incidence and YLDs. The predicted incidence and YLDs of PF in China from 2022 to 2046 showed an initial rise, followed by a decline, with 2029 and 2034 being the turning point for incidence and YLDs, respectively. The characteristics of pelvic fracture incidence and YLDs in China are complex. Thus, primary prevention measures must be strengthened. Raising awareness about osteoporosis prevention, enhancing public health education, and promoting good dietary and hygiene habits are appropriate preventive measures for PF in China.

Early Intervention in pediatric Dentistry: Nurturing lifelong Oral health Habits

Early intervention in pediatric dentistry is crucial in influencing children’s oral health trajectory and establishing habits that may last a lifetime. Pediatric dentists strive to develop good dental hygiene habits in young children via early detection, treatment, education, and prevention (Happykidsdental, 2024). To foster good dental hygiene habits for life, this study explores the many aspects of early intervention in pediatric dentistry. Pediatric dentistry is essential for youngsters to have healthy teeth and gums. It considers the specific requirements and difficulties during infancy and goes beyond regular dental checkups (Wang, 2023). Pediatric dentists provide the groundwork for optimal dental health throughout a child’s life by concen trating on early intervention, individualized treatments, and preventative care (Krol and Whelan, 2022). They make the dentist’s office a fun place for kids, encouraging them to have good experiences there and teaching their parents how to care for their teeth better (Happykidsdental, 2024). Issues such as thumb-sucking, teething, and assisting youngsters with orthodontic troubles are also part of a pediatric dentist’s expertise (Lin, 2022). Pediatric dentists are medical professionals who focus on children’s oral and dental health (dentalcare.com, 2023). They help children maintain good teeth and jaw development, which benefits their general health. Pediatric dentistry is a subspecialty of general dentistry that focuses on the specific problems and requirements of dental health in children. It covers a lot of ground, from general dental checkups and education to more precise treatments for common problems in children and teenagers (Clinical Affairs Committee, 2012). Dental treatment for children goes beyond just fixing cavities; pediatric dentists also work to alleviate anxiety and promote a good attitude toward the dentist from a young age (Happykidsdental, 2024). Building a solid foundation for excellent dental health throughout a child’s life begins in the early years (Baker, Lee and Wright, 2019). The importance of early interventions in establishing excellent oral hygiene habits and avoiding dental disorders before they happen is acknowledged in this particular area (Krol and Whelan, 2022). Pediatric dentists play a dual role as healthcare practitioners and educators, helping children and their families maintain good oral health and wellness. The field of pediatric dentistry focuses on the dental health and welfare of children from the time they are infants until they reach puberty (Wang, 2023). Encouraging youngsters to form good habits with their teeth and gums is integral to this niche field’s mission to promote dental health (Lin, 2022). The formative years are essential to provide the groundwork for excellent dental health throughout a child’s life.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections and Associated Factors among Presumptive Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients at Debre Tabor Referral Hospital, South Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

In developing countries, intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) and tuberculosis (TB) coinfections have been perceived to be high. The geographic distributions of helminths and TB overlap substantially. Parasitic infections affect the outcome of TB by changing the cell-mediated immune response to a humoral response, while Mycobacterium infection favors the immune escape of helminths. There are limited studies on the epidemiology of intestinal parasites among presumptive pulmonary TB (PTB) patients in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study is aimed at determining the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated factors among patients with presumptive pulmonary tuberculosis at Debre Tabor Referral Hospital. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March to June 2021. The sociodemographic data and associated factors were collected using a structured questionnaire, and stool samples were collected by convenient sampling technique and processed for the detection of intestinal parasites using a direct wet mount saline preparation and formal ether concentration technique. The data was coded, cleaned, and analyzed by SPSS version 23. Bivariate and multivariable analyses were conducted to determine an adjusted odds ratio (AOR). p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitosis was 25.6% (81/316); of these, 12.9% (41/316) were protozoan infections and 12.7% (40/316) were helminth infections. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that being older than 36 years (AOR: 4.35; 95% CI: 1.26, 13.91; p = 0.001), rural residence (AOR: 3.46; 95% CI: 1.18, 9.97; p < 0.001), unable to read and write (AOR = 2.62; 95%CI = 2.15, 8.43; p = 0.004), and use of river water (AOR: 3.47; 95% CI: 1.62, 8.21; p < 0.001) were associated with intestinal parasitic infections. The present study showed that the prevalence of intestinal parasitosis among presumptive pulmonary tuberculosis patients was high in the study area. Age, residence, educational status, and source of water were significant factors in IPIs among presumptive TB patients. Moreover, our findings suggest a proper health education program for good personal hygiene habits, the coloration of water, avoiding open-field defecation, and also preventative measures to avoid the acquisition of IPIs in patients with TB. Presumptive tuberculosis patients should be screened and treated accordingly. Additionally, it needs further research and recommends more assessment for intestinal parasitic infection in PTB patients.

Sleep Quality and Sleep Hygiene as Predictors of Mental Health among University Students

Sleep is an integral human need. A significant public health issue is getting little sleep, which harms health. University students are one of the groups most at risk for poor sleep quality and chronic sleep loss, which could influence both physical and mental health. Students frequently report having persistent sleep issues and may exhibit poor sleep hygiene habits. However, little research has investigated the role of good sleep habits concerning sleep quality and mental health. The present study explores the relationship between sleep hygiene, sleep quality, and mental health among university students. The research design was cross-sectional, and the sample was chosen using a non-probability convenience sampling strategy. Sample comprised of university students (N= 210). The scale of positive mental health, sleep hygiene index, and general sleep scale were used for data collection. Results revealed a significant correlation between sleep quality, sleep hygiene, and mental health among university students. Both sleep hygiene and quality were found to be significant predictors of positive mental health. A significant gender difference was found between sleep quality, sleep hygiene, and positive mental health among male and female university students. These findings can provide information about the link between the study variables and interventions for developing good sleep hygiene habits and quality of sleep amongst university students. It could help improve mental health among this at-risk population.

Attitudes of healthcare professionals in primary healthcare about influenza vaccination

Introduction: Influenza is a viral respiratory disease. The most effective way to counteract that disease is by vaccination. Due to aerosol transmission of the virus, its virulence, and the amount of patient–healthcare worker contact in primary care, it is highly recommended for both patient and healthcare worker to get vaccinated.Aim: The study aims to investigate attitudes about flu vaccination among primary healthcare professionals.Material and methods: Quantitative methodology was used in the descriptive cross-sectional survey. That was carried out using a survey questionnaire in 12 healthcare centers around Styria in Slovenia, where the target group of the survey was healthcare professionals in health centers. The data was processed using descriptive statistics, calculating average values, and presented in tables and graphs.Results: Vaccination among healthcare professionals in healthcare centers was found to be higher compared to other studies. They are vaccinated primarily to protect themselves, their family, and their patients. The ones not vaccinated choose to opt out due to personal beliefs regarding their health and the side effects caused by the vaccine. It was also established that free vaccination would contribute greatly to increased interest, as well as vaccination during working hours and a higher number of vaccination sites. Discussion: Based on our results, only a third of healthcare professionals in health centers are vaccinated regularly each year. As vaccination rates are low among healthcare professionals, raising awareness among them and the general population regarding the importance of flu vaccination is of great importance.Conclusion: The vaccination of healthcare professionals in health centers is quite good; however, there is some space for improvement in vaccination coverage. Further prospective research on this topic is needed to obtain a broader aspect of the vaccination problem. In addition to vaccination, we can prevent the spread of influenza through other safeguards and good hygiene habits.

Epidemiological, Genetic, and Phenotypic Characteristics of Non-Typhoidal Salmonella in Young Children, as Obtained from a Tertiary Hospital in Guangzhou, China.

Gastroenteritis caused by non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) is a significant disease in childhood, ranking as the seventh-leading cause of diarrhea mortality in children aged < 5 years. To understand the epidemiological, genetic, and phenotypic characteristics of NTS, 465 anal swabs from children aged < 5 years in a tertiary hospital in Conghua District, Guangzhou, China, were collected from June to October 2021. An average prevalence of 35.27% (164/465) was observed, with whole genome sequencing identifying 11 serotypes, among which Salmonella 1,4,[5],12:i:- was the most prevalent (65.24%, 107/164). Meanwhile, ST34 was found to be the predominant subtype. Children who are breastfed, eat fresh food, and have good hygiene habits show a relatively low prevalence of NTS. Fever is a common symptom that may be caused by NTS infection. Antimicrobial resistance testing revealed that the majority of strains were resistant to tetracycline (83.5%) and ampicillin (82.3%), with multi-drug resistance (MDR) observed in 50.61% (83/164) of all strains tested. The predominant resistance spectrum presents as tetracycline-ampicillin-chloramphenicol-trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (30.49%, 50/164). The antimicrobial resistance rates (2.4%, 9.8%, 9.8%, 10.4%, 9.1%, and 3.7%, respectively) of cephalosporins (cefepime, cefuroxime, cefuroxime axetil, ceftriaxone, ceftazidime, and cefoxitin) were low. Therefore, continued surveillance of the prevalence and MDR profiles of NTS, along with the rational use antibiotics, is required. This protocol is significant for preventing further dissemination of NTS and formulating effective prevention and control strategies.

Home-habits, app for monitoring the progress of the HabitFun video game to generate hygiene habits

The Home-Habits app allows you to monitor the progress of the HabitFun video game, which was developed as a support tool for the generation of good hygiene habits in elementary school children, in the range of 6 to 8 years. Home-Habits allows parents or guardians to monitor their children, which essentially consists of the analysis of recovered data such as the times of the day when the video game was opened, mini-games played, playing time, scores obtained, and with all the data to make a progress history, in addition to having the ability to provide feedback to each report generated, this with the intention of being able to track the child's daily behavior and relate it to the progress within the game.

Mapping gut parasitism patterns in a cohort of Egyptians

In developing countries, the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection is still significant, particularly due to geographical and socioeconomic variables. The objective of this study was to map the distribution pattern of intestinal parasitic infection in a cohort of the Egyptian population, as well as to assess associated risk factors. A cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted on 386 patients. A single fecal specimen was collected from the study individual and examined microscopically for the detection of parasitic infection. DNA was extracted from all samples and utilized to amplify Entamoeba histolytica complex species, Cryptosporidium species, Giardia intestinalis assemblages, and Blastocystis species using PCRs. Typing of Cryptosporidium species and Giardia intestinalis assemblages was performed using restriction enzymes RasI and HaeIII respectively. While Blastocystis spp. subtypes (ST) were identified through sequencing of PCR products and phylogenetic analysis. 59.6% (230/386) of the study patients were infected with one or more intestinal parasites, 87.4%; 201/230 of patients had mono-parasitic infections, and 12.6%; 29/230 had multiple-parasitic infections (P < 0.0001). The predominant protozoa were Blastocystis, followed by Entamoeba histolytica complex, and Giardia intestinalis both as mono-parasites and as part of multiple parasites. Molecular assays showed that Blastocystis ST3, Entamoeba dispar, Giardia intestinalis assemblage B, and Cryptosporidium hominis were the most prevalent species. Intestinal parasitic infection was significantly associated with age, gender, residence, and water source. Multi-parasitism showed that residency in a rural area was a risk factor (OR 4.49; 95% CI 1.51–13.37; P = 0.007). Egyptians residing in rural areas have a high prevalence of intestinal multi-parasitism. Therefore, to lessen the prevalence and effects of these infections in this group, effective and sustainable control methods, providing health education focusing on good personal hygiene habits, and providing a safe drinking water supply should be implemented.

Knowledge and Self-Care Practices on Diabetic Foot among Diabetic Patients in Public Hospitals of Lahore, Pakistan - A Descriptive Study

Background: The purpose of this study is to examine the degree of knowledge and practise of diabetic foot self-care among people with diabetes mellitus, as well as to determine the variables that influence the level of knowledge and practise in a public hospitals of Lahore, Pakistan. It is also beneficial for raising awareness about foot-care in diabetic patients. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional research was done in outpatient diabetes clinics on 153 adult patients with diabetes. Participants were given self-administered questionnaires about their knowledge and practise of diabetic foot self-care. Their responses were used to determine their scores. A total score of &gt;60% was assessed as good and &lt;40% as poor. SPSS was used for analyzing data frequency and percentages. Results: Amongst 153 patients majority of patients 85(55.5%) had poor knowledge about diabetic foot care, 48(31.3%) had average knowledge, and 20(13.2%) had good knowledge about foot care. About 79(51.6%) participants had poor practices regarding diabetic foot care, 49(32%) had satisfactory practices, and 25(16.4%) had good practices of diabetic foot care. Patients with college level education had good level of knowledge about foot care. Knowledge of participants and self-care practices is significantly associated with age and education of participants. Practical Implication: Knowledge and self-care practices of foot care were associated with age and education level of participants. Health-care professionals should concentrate on filling knowledge gaps in foot care, promoting good foot hygiene habits, and enticing patients to take part in diabetes education initiatives. Conclusion: The results of study concluded that majority of participants had poor knowledge and self-care practices about foot care. Keywords: Knowledge; Diabetic Foot; Diabetes Mellitus; Self-Care Practices

0092 Barriers and facilitators of sleep health in family caregivers of persons living with dementia: A qualitative study

Abstract Introduction Family caregivers of persons with dementia (PLwD) commonly report poor sleep health. Existing effects of sleep interventions are mixed and may not have addressed unique issues experienced by caregivers of PLwD. Understanding the barriers and facilitators to get a good night's sleep for these caregivers is imperative for developing acceptable and effective interventions to improve sleep health in this population. Methods This was a secondary data analysis that used a qualitative descriptive design and aimed to explore sleep characteristics and experiences in family caregivers of PLwD. The current study used the same study design to explore barriers and facilitators of good sleep. Using a semi-structured interview, 19 family caregivers of PLwD who provided unpaid caregiving &amp;gt; 4 hours a day with insomnia symptoms (Insomnia Severity Index &amp;gt; 5) participated in this study. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Codes and themes were identified. Results Caregivers, on average, were 64 years old and primarily female (57.9%), Caucasian (68.4%), and spouses (78.9%). In general, caregivers of PLwD reported that the caregiving role negatively influenced and changed their sleep. Themes associated with barriers to good sleep included 1) PLwD’s sleep problems, including a need for increased vigilance for the PLwD, 2) stress associated with balancing work and family responsibilities with caregiving, and 3) caregiver's sleep problems, such as the use of CPAP, having a history of sleep problems before the caregiving role, and changes of sleep patterns with aging. Participating in regular exercise and practicing mindfulness activities (e.g., breathing, meditation or yoga) were themes associated with facilitators of good sleep. Maintaining good sleep hygiene habits (e.g., no caffeine and no daytime naps) and avoiding bad sleep hygiene habits (e.g., watching TV in the bedroom or using an electronic device in bed) were also identified as facilitators of good sleep. Conclusion Caregivers of PLwD reported poor sleep but identified multiple modifiable factors that could be used for interventions to improve sleep. These interventions can be at individual, dyadic, or family levels to best impact caregivers’ sleep. Support (if any) This study was supported by a research supplement to support diversity in health-related research awarded to Glenna Brewster (R01AG054079, PIs: Hepburn/Griffiths)

The Efficacy of the Three Types of Plaque Control Methods During Fixed Orthodontic Treatment: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

When intraoral orthodontic devices are used, it becomes significantly more difficult to remove plaque effectively. Dentists and orthodontic specialists can come up with more effective preventive strategies while patients are undergoing fixed orthodontic work if they have a deeper understanding of the present scenario. In addition, individuals will become more aware of the importance of good dental hygiene habits as a result of this. To assess and compare the effectiveness of a manual toothbrush, machine-driven toothbrush, and conventional mechanical toothbrush coupled with mouth rinse in removing plaque and maintaining gingival health in patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. In this research, a total of 222 individuals who met the eligibility and exclusion requirements were randomly selected and offered their written consent. There were a total of 74participants for each of the three different categories. CategoryA used a physically driven toothbrush. CategoryBused a motorized toothbrush. CategoryC used a physically driventoothbrush together with mouthwash containing 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate. All study participants were assessed at baseline, one-month follow-up, and two-month follow-up to document the preliminary information, including that of the modified papillary bleeding index (MPBI) by Muhlemann, plaque index (PI)introduced bySilness and Loe, and gingival index (GI) introducedby Loe and Silness. In this study, the mean PI scores at the one-month and two-month follow-ups were minimum in Category C, while it was maximum in Category A at the two-month follow-up. The mean GI scores at the two-month follow-up were minimum in Category C, while it was maximum in Category A at the two-month follow-up. The mean MPBI scores at the two-month follow-up were minimum in Category C, while it was maximum in Category A. It was observed that participants in this trial who only used a typical mechanical brush experienced an increase in PI and GI scores after one and two months of follow-up. At the one-month and two-month follow-ups, it was noted that the values of PI, GI, and MPBI significantly decreased in the study participants using automated toothbrushes as well as in study participants using manual toothbrushes in conjunction with chlorhexidine mouthwash as compared to baseline values. However, when the three categories were compared, it was found that the research participants utilizing both a manual toothbrush and 0.2% chlorhexidine experienced the highest decreases in PI, GI, and MPBI values. The reduction in the scores of PI, GI, and MPBI was maximum in orthodontic patients after two months when they apply manual toothbrushingalong with 0.2% chlorhexidine.

Cryptosporidiosis and Associated Risk Factors among Children Attending Paediatric Hospitals in Enugu Metropolis, Enugu State, Nigeria

Cryptosporidiosis is a zoonotic disease caused by infection with protozoan parasite of the genus Cryptosporidium. It is associated with moderate to severe diarrhoea which may eventually lead to death. The parasite impedes growth and development of affected children. A hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted to assess cryptosporidiosis and the associated risk factors among children aged 0-15years attending selected paediatric hospitals in Enugu Metropolis between November 2021 and August 2022. A total of five hundred and fifty stool samples were examined for oocysts of Cryptosporidium species using Formol Ethyl-Acetate sedimentation and modified Ziehl Neelsen’s staining techniques. The overall prevalence of the parasite was 14.4% (79/550). Enugu State University of Science and Technology Teaching Hospital recorded the highest prevalence 32(25.6%) of Cryptosporidium species while St. Patrick Hospital recorded the least 1(1.1%). Public hospitals recorded more infections than private hospitals. The age group ≤ 5years 43(15.8%) recorded the highest prevalence. Males 52(17.1%) were more infected than females 27(10.98%), which was not significant (P&gt;0.05). Children whose parents/caregivers had only primary education 11(26.8%), has the highest prevalence while those whose parents/caregivers had tertiary education 17(8.9%), has the least. Children whose parents/caregivers were farming has the highest prevalence 9(25.0%), while children of civil servants, 40(12.4%) has the least which was not significant (P&gt;0.05). Children living in multifamily residences 48(15.2%) had higher prevalence than those living in private homes, 2(6.3%). Other protozoan parasites identified in the study were Entamoeba histolytica 88(16.1%) and Giardia lamblia 69(12.5%). There were co-infections of Cryptosporidium and Entamoeba histolytica 27(4.9%), Cryptosporidium and Giardia lamblia 21(4.3%) which was not significant (P&gt;0.05). Intervention through health education on good hygiene habits, and provision of clean water and proper disposal of faeces will help reduce cryptosporidiosis among children.

Personal Hygiene Attitude Among School Students - A Comparative Introspection

Health and hygiene is an essential part of our everyday life. Someone rightly quoted it that ‘Cleanliness is next to Godliness’. Cleanliness is imperativein all human communities. In fact, a healthy mind resides in a healthy body. Entailing the last statement, the World Health Organization (WHO,2006) defined health as “A state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. It isan essential activity that everyone must perform to have a healthy living standard for themselves and others. Sometimes it is believed thatfamilies and schools are the primary agents for the inculcation of healthy habits among children. Inevitably, significant adults play a vital role inpassing on good personal hygiene practice to the younger generation. The formidable years happen to be the most pronounced time periodin imbibing the good hygiene habits showcased by the adults to the young ones. And thereof the cultivation of proper health and hygienebecomes an integral part in human lives. Despite of conscious hygiene habit formation, acts of negligence and oblivious behaviour are foundto be quite common among people. Inadvertent hygiene errors are also quite observed quite frequently among students. In spite of teachingand disciplining students about good habit formations, students forget some and prohibit hygiene taboos. The present study targets to findout the status of personal hygiene among students studying at the higher secondary level of formal school education.Objective: The study focussed on finding out the differences in personal hygiene among students in relation to gender, locality of the schools(urban and rural) and streams of study.Hypotheses: Based on the objectives, null hypotheses were constructed.Tools: Standardised questionnaire was used to collect data.Data collection: Random simple sampling method was employed to pool information from the participants:Sample: the sample size for the present study was 248(n=248).Statistics: Differential and Inferential statistics were used as per suitability.

Periodontal health in a population with Parkinson's disease in Spain: a cross-sectional study.

The aim of this research is to evaluate the periodontal health of patients with Parkinson Disease (PD) in a Spanish cohort. A cross-sectional study was performed on 104 patients with PD (mean age: 66.19+9.3 years) and 106 controls (mean age: 59.26+14.11 years). A pre-designed clinical protocol was implemented, which included a standardized epidemiological index for periodontal disease (CPITN), clinical attachment loss (CAL), tooth-loss, full mouth plaque index (FMPI), and oral hygienic habits. Univariate descriptions and comparative analysis were performed. The majority of PD patients presented good oral hygienic habits. There were no significant differences in relation to CPITN, periodontitis, gingival recessions and tooth loss. However, moderate/severe CAL (p=0.027) and FMPI (p=0.003) was higher in the PD group. There were no differences on periodontitis and tooth loss between both groups. The higher number of advanced CAL and presence of biofilm in the PD group could be related to the difficulties to perform an effective tooth brushing due to this neurological disorder.

Monkey Pox Virus: A Re-Emerging Potential Healthcare Threat

Monkeypox virus (MPXV) causes monkey pox infection which is a zoonotic disease with symptoms presentation similar to smallpox. The disease has a public health significance as it affects humans and animals worldwide. It is usually self-limiting but may be acute in some people. Transmission occurs via exposure to skin lesions, bodily fluids, or respiratory droplets of infected animals directly or indirectly. The clinical manifestation of the disease includes a prodromal illness with fever, malaise, swollen lymph nodes, characteristic rash, chills and/or sweats, headache, sore throat, cough, backache and shortness of breath. The incubation period is usually between 7 to 14 days with an upper limit of 21 days. Laboratory diagnosis is imperative and requires advanced technical skills and well-advanced laboratory methods. Monkeypox treatment is mainly supportive as there has been no proven treatment available over the years. Tecovirimat is a new antiviral which has received approval but still in limited supply, however, the use of smallpox vaccine, cidofovir, ST-246, and vaccinia immune globulin (VIG) have been recommended in the management of monkeypox outbreaks. Effective prevention depends on minimizing contact with infected patients or animals, practicing good hygienic habits after making contact with infected animals or humans, proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and the use of smallpox vaccination when unprotected exposure occurs. However, new therapeutics and vaccines offer hope for the treatment and prevention of monkeypox. There is therefore, a need for future researches to focus on identifying the virus and its host factors that regulate transmission between humans and animals.