Level Of Knowledge Research Articles

Level of Knowledge and Hygiene Practices of Food Handlers and Escherichia Coli Contamination of Food in “B” Catering

Level of Knowledge and Hygiene Practices of Food Handlers and Escherichia Coli Contamination of Food in “B” Catering

The Effect of Two Health Education Packages on Nutritional Knowledge, Practices, and Physical Activity Levels Among School-Going Adolescents in Rishikesh: A Cluster Randomized Trial.

Introduction Adolescence is a critical period known for presenting specific challenges in disease treatment and health promotion. Studies have highlighted that increased nutritional awareness is associated with healthier eating habits, while regular physical activity aids in controlling and preventing non-communicable diseases. Equipping adolescents with health education in schools prepares them to adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles throughout their lives. To assess and compare the efficacy of health education packages targeting nutrition knowledge, practices, and physical activity levels, a cluster-randomized trial was conducted among school-going adolescents. Methodology Two distinct health education packages were developed for the two intervention groups. In group 1, a health talk supported by a flip chart was delivered, followed by pamphlet distribution. In contrast, in group 2, only information pamphlets were distributed. The study was conducted in government schools in Rishikesh, with four schools selected. Two schools were randomly allocated to each intervention arm. In each school, a questionnaire was administered to assess the students' nutrition knowledge, practicesand physical activity levels. This was followed by the intervention, and the students were reassessed for the same parameters after two weeks. Result The pre-intervention and post-intervention comparisons within the same group- the mean scores for nutrition knowledge, food practice, sleep duration, and recreational screen time were comparable in the intervention group 1 (p>0.05). There was a decrease in the mean physical activity score and screen time for studies in intervention group 1, and these differences were statistically significant (p<0.05). The mean scores for nutrition knowledge, physical activity, sleep duration, and screen time for studies were comparable in the intervention group 2 (p>0.05). There was an increase in the mean food practice score and a decrease in recreational screen time in intervention group 2, and these differences were statistically significant (p<0.05). On comparing the groups with each other, it was found thatGroup 2 exhibited a significantly higher mean food practice score compared to group 1 post-intervention. While there was a statistically significant decrease in the mean physical activity score in intervention group 1, this group still had higher physical activity levels than group 2.Post-intervention, group 2 exhibited a higher screen time for studies compared to group 1. Both groups had comparable sleep durations at baseline and post-intervention, with intervention group 1's mean sleep duration falling within the recommended range set by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Regression analysis provided valuable insights into the relationship between baseline values of various variables and their post-intervention values, aiding in understanding the impact of the health education packages. Conclusion The findings emphasize the significance of incorporating nutrition and physical activity education into the curriculum of students.

Factors Affecting Adherence to Therapeutic Regimens and it's Association with Knowledge Level among Patients with Cardiac Valve Replacement.

Factors Affecting Adherence to Therapeutic Regimens and it's Association with Knowledge Level among Patients with Cardiac Valve Replacement.

Knowledge and Attitudes Regarding Geriatric Depression: A Descriptive Study Among Adult Saudi Citizens.

Depression is a leading cause of disability and contributes significantly to the overall burden of any disease. In Saudi Arabia, the geriatric population over 65 is continuing to expand and will contribute to a significant portion of the Saudi community. As the population of the elderly continues to grow as a result of longer lifespans, there will be an increase in the number of individuals in this population suffering from undiagnosed geriatric depression. This study aims to assess the general population's attitude and knowledge about the symptoms, signs, and complications of geriatric depressiontoimprove the quality of life of the elderly. This is a cross-sectional study, using a convenience sample of 2,320 participants, between March to September 2022. However, due to age, nationality, and incomplete responses that did not meet our inclusion criteria, 629 participants were excluded, and the sample size narrowed to 1,691. A structured questionnaire was designed to collect data based on a comprehensive literature review. An online survey was distributed to Saudi citizens. The participants were between 18 and 50, both women and men and only Saudi nationals were included. This age group was selected as a convenient, purposeful sample, assuming that this portion of the population will be able to be enrolled in an electronic survey in addition to their direct contact with elderlies as possible caregivers. All analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics software for Windows, version 26.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). The data were analyzed using a nonparametric test because they were not normally distributed. The study comprised 1,691 participants from diverse regions of Saudi Arabia, with a significant gender disparity observed, including 1,249 females (73.9%) and 442 males (26.1%). The majority of our participants were between 18-29 years, accounting for 55.2% of the sample. Descriptive statistics revealed prevalent beliefs among participants regarding geriatric depression. Notably, 35.1% strongly agreed and 19.3% agreed that depression affects individuals of particular ages, while a significant portion (47.1%) disagreed with the statement that depression in the elderly is a health problem. Additionally, 33.9% disagreed that geriatric depression can lead to suicide, and 33.8% believed it can be prevented. Analysis of actions and behaviors highlighted avoidance tendencies, with only 1.5% of the population strongly agreeing to treat a family member with geriatric depression and a majority (63.7%) avoiding interaction due to fear of harm, including 29.5% who strongly agreed and 34.2% who agreed. Gender differences were evident in emotional responses and knowledge levels, with females exhibiting higher emotional responses (mean score 15.63±2.92) and males displaying greater knowledge (mean score 14.90±3.36). In this study, we investigated the knowledge and attitudes of Saudis toward depression in the elderly. Findings revealed an inadequate understanding of geriatric depression, with many not recognizing it as a health condition and underestimating its severity. Negative emotions and behaviors, such as shame and reluctance to provide support, were prevalent. Gender, education level, and region influenced attitudes and knowledge. These results underscore the need for targeted interventions to raise awareness and challenge the stigma surrounding geriatric depression in Saudi Arabia.

Diabetes specialist nurses' knowledge, skills, and personal attributes for providing competent health education practice, and its influencing factors: A cross-sectional survey

BackgroundThe number of diabetes specialist nurse as well as their knowledge and skills have increased in Gansu Province since 2017. However, China has not fully addressed how to improve their professional skills to deliver effective health education. AimsTo investigate the knowledge, skills, and personal attributes of competent health education practices among diabetes specialist nurses in Gansu Province, western China, and the potential influencing factors. DesignCross-sectional study. MethodsIn total, 178 diabetes specialist nurses from 45 hospitals participated in this study. Data were collected between December 2022 and April 2023 using the Nurse Health Education Competence Instrument (I-CepSE) and a self-report questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including univariate and multiple linear regression analyses, were used to analyze data. ResultsThe mean scores of overall I-CepSE, knowledge, skills, and personal attributes were 218.77 ± 31.65, 77.80 ± 18.27, 103.95 ± 13.75 and 37.02 ± 4.73, respectively. A shortage of nursing staff and heavy workload (81.4 %), lack of cooperation from patients (56.5 %), lack of access to educational resources during work placement (54.2 %), and nurses' lack of knowledge/skills in health education (53.1 %) were common barriers to health education implementation. The regression models for the overall health education competence domain were significant (P < 0.001) with R2 values ranging from 31.9 % to 50.5 %. Education level and years of experience in diabetes-related care were found to be significant on all knowledge, skills, and personal attitude scales (P < 0.05), and age was associated with diabetes specialist nurses' skills and personal attitude scores (P < 0.05). ConclusionDiabetes specialist nurses demonstrated moderate to high levels of health education knowledge, skills, and attitudes. However, they lacked knowledge of pedagogical techniques and resources, with inadequate educational skills. This study suggests that reasonable nursing human resource allocation and continuous education and training are crucial for improving health education competence.

Public Awareness, Knowledge of Presbyopia and Compliance to Eye Examination in Jordan.

To assess public awareness and knowledge about presbyopia and their compliance to ocular examination in Jordan. A cross-sectional survey was designed to interview people in different provinces of Jordan. Socio-demographic data such as age, gender and level of education and region was reported. The first part of the questionnaire assessed awareness of presbyopia in terms of the need for spectacles with age, age of onset, possible causes of presbyopia and methods of presbyopia management. The second part of the questionnaire evaluated compliance of the participants with ocular examination in terms of frequency and motive to do general eye check, intraocular pressure (IOP), fundus exam and visual acuity. A total of 802 participants (232 males, 570 females) with an average age of 28 (±11.6) completed the questionnaire. Most participants (84.2%) knew that glasses are needed for near vision as age increases, and 62.8% estimated the age at which spectacles are required (40 years or older). Over half understood that presbyopia is correctable and progressive. Age significantly influenced knowledge about the need for near vision spectacles, and whether presbyopia is preventable and progressive (both p < 0.05). Females were more knowledgeable about these aspects. The frequency of eye examinations, particularly fundus exams and IOP tests, was significantly influenced by age but not by education. Gender only significantly affected the frequency of vision checks (p = 0.01), with females being more likely to adhere to them. This study demonstrated a good level of awareness and knowledge about presbyopia among Jordanians, especially those over 40 and females. Regular eye check-ups were more common among young participants and females. Addressing misconceptions about presbyopia's preventability and promoting regular eye exams are crucial for early diagnosis and management of presbyopia and other serious eye conditions.

Knowledge of Diabetes Mellitus and Practices Regarding Lifestyle Factors and Diabetes Management in a General Adult Population of Aseer Region, Saudi Arabia.

Many studies report a lack of public awareness of the risk factors and complications of Diabetes Mellitus. Adequate glycemic control is crucial in preventing or delaying the onset of type 2 diabetes complications, and medication adherence is one of the key factors in achieving this goal. This study aimed to measure the knowledge about diabetes mellitus and practices regarding lifestyle factors and diabetes management in the study population in the Aseer region, of Saudi Arabia. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted in Abha, a city in the Aseer region of Saudi Arabia. The general population of 18 years of age and above, who were residing in the study area during the period of study, ie, January 2023 to June 2023, were included. The questionnaire was distributed through social media and e-mail for data collection. The descriptive variables were presented using frequency, percentage, and graphs. Pearson's chi-square test was used at a 5% level of significance. Multivariate tests were applied to further explore the findings of univariate analysis. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. Out of the total 348 participants, a higher proportion was males (56.3%). About 78.7% of the participants were ever diagnosed with diabetes mellitus and 21.3% were never diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. Nearly 31.6% knew that the major cause of diabetes mellitus was obesity and 31.3% knew that it was a hereditary disease. About 42.2% of respondents exercised regularly and 27.6% were smokers. Adherence to prescribed anti-diabetic medications was seen in 63.2% of the respondents. Self-alterations in the timing and dose of prescribed anti-diabetic drugswere seen in 36.5% and 34.8%, respectively. About 60.1% had a moderate level of self-rated knowledge about Diabetes Mellitus, and 27.6% and 12.4% had good and poor self-rated knowledge levels of Diabetes mellitus, respectively. On multivariate analysis, the age group 60-69 years had significant variations as compared to the other age groups on DM, bachelor's degree holders had significant variations as compared to other education variables, being married had significant differences as compared to those unmarried, those employed had significant variations as compared to the other occupation categories, and smokers had a significant impact on DM as compared to non-smokers. Findings indicated less number of respondents exercised regularly, low adherence to prescribed anti-diabetic medications and low levels of self-rated knowledge of diabetes mellitus. Enhancing the patients' knowledge of diabetes mellitus and improving their self-management and adherence to its medications is necessary through public health education.

Exploring the interplay of English academic reading and writing proficiency among international doctoral students

Academic English is discipline-specific and requires a high level of linguistic knowledge as well as expertise in respective fields. Therefore, doctoral students with limited exposure to academic English tend to face challenges in dealing with its demands, especially when they come from non-native English-speaking (NNES) backgrounds. At the doctoral level, research students are expected to work independently. Therefore, the ability to critically engage with academic materials written in English and the ability to write a dissertation in English at an expected standard play essential roles in successful PhD completion for students studying in international PhD programs where everything is conducted in English. This study investigates the relationship between English academic reading (EAR) and English academic writing (EAW) abilities among NNES doctoral students. We conducted a survey by employing a 1–6 Likert scale, following Dörnyei and Dewaele (2022), in the 2021–2022 academic year. A total of 255 international doctoral students studying in 65 PhD programs across Hungary voluntarily participated in the study. The students came from 49 countries and represented 48 mother tongues. The analysis revealed that students were positive about their abilities in both EAR and EAW, even though there was a significant gender difference at the p < 0.01 level. Additionally, students with the highest English proficiency level (C2) were found to be the most confident about their EAR and EAW abilities. The most junior students from 1st-year PhD programs were less confident about their abilities compared to their peers from 2nd, 3rd, 4th-year PhD programs. The analysis showed a significantly positive correlation between EAR and EAW (r = 0.792, p < 0.001). This study highlighted the inseparable role of EAR in fulfilling doctoral requirements and submitting a dissertation within a contracted PhD time framework, indicating the importance of targeted language support in facilitating academic progression within PhD programs.

Health status and ergonomics education: A comparison between student nurses and first-year nursing staff.

To (a) compare student nurses' health status and levels of ergonomics knowledge and awareness to those of first-year nursing staff and (b) investigate the association between nurses' ergonomic compliance and health status with their educational preparedness. This cohort study compared ergonomics awareness and knowledge, and health status of nurses when they were students and after their first-year working in medical facilities. In total, 133 4th-year student nurses completed a survey; 45 of them completed a second survey after working 1 year in a medical facility. Their health status was compared over time using repeated-measures ANOVA. Correlation tests were used to analyse associations between ergonomics knowledge and awareness, health status, demographic variables and educational preparedness. Respondents in both surveys displayed weak knowledge of ergonomic principles significantly associated with increased pain intensity and educational preparedness. Ergonomics training should be expanded during nursing studies and first-year training to prevent long-term health disorders.

Diabetes specialist nurses' knowledge, skills, and personal attributes for providing competent health education practice, and its influencing factors: A cross-sectional survey

BackgroundThe number of diabetes specialist nurse as well as their knowledge and skills have increased in Gansu Province since 2017. However, China has not fully addressed how to improve their professional skills to deliver effective health education. AimsTo investigate the knowledge, skills, and personal attributes of competent health education practices among diabetes specialist nurses in Gansu Province, western China, and the potential influencing factors. DesignCross-sectional study. MethodsIn total, 178 diabetes specialist nurses from 45 hospitals participated in this study. Data were collected between December 2022 and April 2023 using the Nurse Health Education Competence Instrument (I-CepSE) and a self-report questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including univariate and multiple linear regression analyses, were used to analyze data. ResultsThe mean scores of overall I-CepSE, knowledge, skills, and personal attributes were 218.77 ± 31.65, 77.80 ± 18.27, 103.95 ± 13.75 and 37.02 ± 4.73, respectively. A shortage of nursing staff and heavy workload (81.4 %), lack of cooperation from patients (56.5 %), lack of access to educational resources during work placement (54.2 %), and nurses' lack of knowledge/skills in health education (53.1 %) were common barriers to health education implementation. The regression models for the overall health education competence domain were significant (P < 0.001) with R2 values ranging from 31.9 % to 50.5 %. Education level and years of experience in diabetes-related care were found to be significant on all knowledge, skills, and personal attitude scales (P < 0.05), and age was associated with diabetes specialist nurses' skills and personal attitude scores (P < 0.05). ConclusionDiabetes specialist nurses demonstrated moderate to high levels of health education knowledge, skills, and attitudes. However, they lacked knowledge of pedagogical techniques and resources, with inadequate educational skills. This study suggests that reasonable nursing human resource allocation and continuous education and training are crucial for improving health education competence.

Knowledge and acceptance of artificial intelligence and its applications among the physicians working in military medical centers affiliated with Aja University: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in medical sciences promises many benefits. Applying the benefits of this science in developing countries is still in the development stage. This important point depends considerably on the knowledge and acceptance levels of physicians. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was a cross-sectional descriptive–analytical study that was conducted on 169 medical doctors using a purposive sampling method. To collect data, questionnaires were used to obtain demographic characteristics, a questionnaire to investigate the knowledge of AI and its applications, and an acceptability questionnaire to investigate AI. For data analysis, SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) version 22 and appropriate descriptive and inferential statistical tests were used, and a significance level of &lt; 0.05 was considered. RESULTS: Most of the participants (102) were male (60.4%), married (144) (85.20%), had specialized doctorate education (97) (57.4%), and had average work experience of 10.78 ± 6.67 years. The mean and standard deviation of knowledge about AI were 9.54 ± 3.04, and acceptability was 81.64 ± 13.83. Multiple linear regressions showed that work history (P = 0.017) and history of participation in AI training courses (P = 0.007) are effective in knowledge and acceptability of AI. CONCLUSION: The knowledge and acceptability of the use of AI among the studied physicians were at an average level. However, due to the importance of using AI in medical sciences and the inevitable use of this technology in the near future, especially in medical sciences in crisis, war, and military conditions, it is necessary for the policymakers of the health system to improve the knowledge and methods of working with this technology in the medical staff in addition to providing the infrastructure.

Exploring Knowledge, Safety Practices, and Anxiety Level among Women of Reproductive Age During COVID-19 Outbreak: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Background: The global outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and its consequences compromise the health of Women of Reproductive Age (WRA). The aim of this study was to assess the level of knowledge, safety practices, and anxiety levels among WRA during COVID-19 outbreaks. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, correlational design was used to recruit a convenience sample of 453 WRA in Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using an electronic self-administered questionnaire of Spielberger state-trait anxiety and an adapted authors-developed knowledge and practices scale using an extensive literature review. Data were collected between September and December 2020 targeting all women in the country. Pearson correlation coefficient has been used to test correlation utilizing the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 25. Results: The mean score of anxiety was 46.0 (13.40). Women have a high mean score of knowledge (24.50, standard deviation (SD) = 3.40) while having a low mean score of practices (19.70, SD = 3.10) indicating inappropriate practices. A significant difference was found in anxiety (t479 = 2.52, p = .012) and knowledge (t479 = −1.98, p = .048) between pregnant and non-pregnant women, while no statistically significant difference was found in relation to practices. The mean score of anxiety was higher among pregnant women than non-pregnant women, while a slightly higher mean score of knowledge was observed for non-pregnant women compared to pregnant ones. Conclusions: Although women had good knowledge about safety precautions, their practices did not indicate that. There is a need to educate women about safety practices and interventions that buffer their anxiety levels.

Knowledge, attitudes and associated factors regarding cervical cancer and its screening practice among women of central Nepal

BackgroundCervical cancer is a severe public health problem worldwide including developing countries like Nepal. Cervical cancer screening has decreased the incidence and mortality of cervical cancer worldwide. Although it is highly preventable disease, cervical cancer is the leading cause of mortality among Nepalese women due to poor knowledge, negative attitude, poor practice, and late diagnosis. 1928 women died from cervical cancer in Nepal in 2018, this number was higher than that in 2017. ObjectivesThis study aimed to identify the knowledge, attitudes, and associated factors related to cervical cancer and its screening practices among women in Nepal. MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted after following the ethical approval from the Nepal Health Research Council, Ref No-115 in Kathmandu, Nepal. A total of 426 married women aged 18–49 were selected using a probability proportionate simple random sampling technique. After obtaining the written informed consent, the participants were interviewed using a validated questionnaire. Data entry and analysis were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 23, and we interpreted the findings using both descriptive and inferential statistics. To assess the factors associated with knowledge and attitude levels, we employed Chi-square analysis and subsequently conducted binary logistic regression analysis. ResultsThe average age of respondents was 31.18 ± 8.375 and 85 % of respondents heard about cervical cancer mainly from Television/Radio. Slightly more than half (51.8 %) of respondents had favorable attitude towards cervical cancer and its screening. Regarding knowledge, 46.5 % had adequate knowledge about cervical cancer and its screening. However, majority of (91.5 %) the respondents had never done cervical cancer screening test. In logistic regression analysis, respondent's education, occupation and heard about cervical cancer were significantly associated with adequate level of knowledge. Women with secondary education (AOR = 3.875 95 % CI: 1.741–8.623) and higher education (AOR = 7.818 95 % CI: 3.386–18.048) had more adequate knowledge compared with illiterate women. Age and heard about cervical cancer and type of family were positively associated with favorable attitude. There was a very weak positive correlation between knowledge and attitude of cervical cancer and its screening (r = 0.078). ConclusionCervical cancer is a severe public health problem of Nepal. From the result, we can say that about half of the subjects had knowledge and favorable attitude towards cervical cancer, despite the fact that still there is gap to transform it in to practice. There is a need for some measures to improve the cervical cancer screening practice by using information, Education, Communication materials and Behavior Change Communication (IEC/BCC)

The Corralation between Knowledge and Satisfaction Level with the High Referral of Patients Participating in the National Health Insurance (NHI) at First Level Health Facilities (FLHF)

The Corralation between Knowledge and Satisfaction Level with the High Referral of Patients Participating in the National Health Insurance (NHI) at First Level Health Facilities (FLHF)

“WAIT, do I need more fibre?” Exploring UK consumers’ dietary fibre-related awareness and white bread as a viable solution to promote subsequent intake

Sufficient dietary fibre is associated with well-established health benefits, yet such intake is currently suboptimal globally. Thus, there is interest in developing strategies to improve dietary fibre intake. One such approach is to increase the dietary fibre content of staple foods; however, this needs relevant investigation. Forty-two UK-based consumers (18-76 years) were recruited to take part in seven focus group sessions investigating: (i) key factors in food choice; (ii) dietary fibre-related knowledge, awareness, consumption habits and engagement levels; (iii) willingness to consume dietary fibre-rich staple foods; and (iv) gain initial feedback on dietary fibre-rich breads. Overall, key dietary fibre themes emerged such as knowledge (benefits, foods, recommendations, labelling), consumption (not measuring intake), barriers (convenience, knowledge), resources (education, public appeal) and topics (food examples, cooking). Consumers were positive per se to the idea of dietary fibre-rich staple foods but with various caveats (no changes in appearance, taste and cost). White bread trends were centred around context (sandwich, toast), habit (comfort food), preferences (soft, fresh) and consumption is variable (daily to less often). In addition, consumers’ preferred labelling strategy for dietary fibre-rich breads were predominately focused on transparency and visibility. Overall, the newly-developed breads were well received demonstrating the potential of our prototypes to fit into the white bread market; however, additional consumer insights are needed. Our findings recommend combining education with a personalised element of advice, coupled with a collective effort from the government and food industry, is essential to help encourage a step-change in dietary fibre consumption in the UK population.

The Relationship of Knowledge with Anemia Prevention Attitudes in Pregnant Women at Kereng Bangkirai Public Health Centre

ABSTRACT Anemia is a disorder characterized by low hemoglobin levels in the blood. If it affects pregnant women, it can result in severe bleeding and even death during childbirth. In Indonesia, the number of pregnant women dying from anemia increased by 62.6% in 2020–2021. According to midwives at Palangka Raya City's Kereng Bangkirai Public Health Center, 86 pregnant women suffered from anemia in 2021. The purpose of this study to determine the relationship between knowledge and attitude to prevent anemia in pregnant women. This study used a quantitative correlational method with cross-sectional. The sample of this study is 50 first-trimester pregnant women who are registered at the Kereng Bangkirai Public Health Center in Palangka Raya City with accidental sampling as the sampling method. The instrument of this study uses a questionnaire on the knowledge and attitude to prevent anemia among pregnant women. The research was conducted in February-April 2023. The results showed that 25 (50%) pregnant women had good knowledge, which is 20 (20%) pregnant women had a positive anemia prevention attitude, and 5 (10%) pregnant women had a negative anemia prevention attitude. There was a relationship between knowledge and attitudes toward preventing anemia, as evidenced by the chi-square test results (p=0.047). A good level of knowledge can produce a positive attitude toward anemia prevention in pregnant women. Keywords: Anemia, Attitude, Pregnancy, Pregnant Women

Insight of Al Hijamah Therapy among Allopathic Doctors of Karachi, Pakistan

Aims and objectives: Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) encompasses all forms of therapies that fall outside the mainstream of medical practice. Wet cupping, also known as Al Hijamah therapy, is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a prominent area within the realm of alternative medicine. Its increasing awareness among general population and misconceptions among allopathic doctors, highlights the need to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and practices of physicians regarding this therapy to promote it effectively and safely in Pakistan. Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted from January 2021 to Dec 2022 among allopathic doctors practicing in various hospitals and private clinics of Karachi, Pakistan. The survey was carried out using both hard copy and online questionnaire, which includes four sections: socio-demographics, knowledge of physicians toward cupping therapy, physicians’ attitudes toward therapy, and physicians’ practice toward al hijama therapy. IBM-SPSS version 23.0 was used for data analysis. Results: Out of the 182 responses, 96.7% of the physicians were aware of al Hijamah therapy, 72% expressed a desire to acquire knowledge, 56.6% undergone this therapy and tend to integrate this therapy into their clinical practices. However only 34.8% of the physicians referred their patients to Hijamah therapists. Conclusion: Our research findings suggest that physicians have a sound understanding of al hijama therapy and maintain a positive outlook toward it. Despite their proficiency in this field, physicians encounter obstacles in effectively employing, recommending, or referring patients to this therapy. This study also underscores the importance of integrating CAM education into the medical curricula to address existing knowledge gaps and promote its safe and effective use.

ChecKAP: A Checklist for Reporting a Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) Study.

The Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) model is a foundational tool in public health research. KAP surveys play a vital role in this process by gauging a population's current level of knowledge about a specific health issue. Rigorous evaluation is essential for ensuring the validity and reliability of KAP studies. Therefore, in this study, a comprehensive checklist for reporting Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) Studies was developed. This study was conducted using a systematic six-step roadmap. A comprehensive review of available relevant quality assessment tools led to the development of specific new items. An expert panel reviewed the initial draft, and after corrections were made, the second draft was finalized and subjected to psychometric analysis by experts. The development of ChecKAP (Checklist for Reporting Items for Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice) represents a significant contribution to KAP studies. The final tool consists of 46 items across 8 fields: title (1 item), abstract (6 items), keywords (1 item), introduction (6 items), method (11 items), findings (7 items), discussion (15 items), and conclusion (1 item). ChecKAP assesses the inherent complexity of KAP research methods and ensures consistent reporting. It fills an important gap in the KAP research literature and serves a dual purpose. First, it acts as a quality assessment tool for reviewers, enabling them to evaluate the methodological rigor and clarity of submitted manuscripts. Second, it serves as a guideline for authors, promoting a more systematic and transparent approach to reporting.

Challenges for the management of Johne’s disease in the UK: Expectation management, space, ‘free riding’, and vet-farmer communication

Johne’s disease in cattle is a significant global animal health challenge. Johne’s disease is chronic, affecting the gastrointestinal tract of cattle and other ruminants and is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium avium ssp. Paratuberculosis. Many countries have introduced schemes and programmes to try and control the spread of Johne’s disease, including the UK. Despite efforts to control it, however, Johne’s disease remains consistently ranked by UK producers as the top ranked disease negatively affecting productivity, indicating that schemes are not perceived to have solved the problem fully. Building on a global systematic review of the literature on barriers and solutions for Johne’s disease control on-farm, we conducted an empirical study with over 400 farmers and 150 veterinary professionals across the UK. The study used workshops and semi-structured interviews to understand better the challenges dairy farmers and veterinarians face in implementing on-farm Johne’s disease management schemes with the aim of identifying solutions. The study found that four main challenges are faced in the on-farm control of Johne’s – (1) Management of farmer expectations around Johne’s disease, with eradication near impossible, (2) Issues regarding space for segregation and the related economics of control (3) A ‘free-riding’ problem which can be influenced by the voluntary nature of control plans and (4) Challenges in vet-farmer communication, including levels of knowledge. Our findings have relevance for the control of Johne’s disease in the UK and other countries, including for regions with voluntary and compulsory control programmes.

Diagnosis and treatment of venous leg ulcers: S2k Guideline of the German Society of Phlebology and Lymphology (DGPL) e.V.

This S2k guideline on venous leg ulcers was created on the initiative and under the leadership of the German Society of Phlebology and Lymphology (DGPL). The guideline group also consisted of representatives from the German Society for Phlebology and Lymphology, German Dermatological Society, German Society for General Medicine, German Society for Angiology, German Society for Vascular Surgery and Vascular Medicine, German Society for Surgery, German Society for Dermatosurgery, German Society for Wound Healing and Wound Treatment, Professional Association of Phlebologists and Lymphologists and Initiative Chronische Wunden. The aim of this guideline is to combine the different approaches and levels of knowledge of the respective professional groups on the basis of consensus, so that a basic concept for the best possible treatment of patients with venous leg ulcers can be provided. A total of 70 specific recommendations were formulated and agreed upon, divided into the subject areas of diagnostics, therapy, prevention of recurrences, and everyday challenges. The guideline thus reflects the current state of scientific knowledge and is intended to be widely used as the best available document for the treatment of patients with venous leg ulcers in everyday clinical practice.