Patient Education Research Articles

Enhancing preoperative patient education through virtual reality: A leap forward in nursing practice

Integration of virtual reality (VR) technology into preoperative patient education has shown potential to improve nursing practice. The study by Kim et al examines the impact of VR on nurse satisfaction, usability, and burnout. A prospective study involving 20 nurses and 80 patients was conducted, comparing traditional paper-based education with VR-based education in the plastic surgery ward at Chungnam National University Hospital. Findings demonstrated that VR significantly enhanced satisfaction and usability among nurses, while also reducing emotional exhaustion, a critical factor in nurse burnout. Consistency in education quality was also improved, ensuring uniform patient care. These results underscore the importance of VR in reducing the stress of repetitive tasks, improving job satisfaction, and potentially enhancing nurse retention. Future research should explore the broader applications of VR in healthcare and address the logistical challenges of integrating this technology into routine clinical practice. The study by Kim et al highlights VR’s transformative potential in preoperative education for both patients and healthcare providers.

Feasibility and effectiveness of cardiac telerehabilitation for older adults with coronary heart disease: A pilot randomized controlled trial.

Cardiac rehabilitation is a beneficial multidisciplinary treatment of exercise promotion, patient education, risk factor management, and psychosocial counseling for people with coronary heart disease (CHD) that is underutilized due to substantial disparities in access, referral, and participation. Empirical studies suggest that cardiac telerehabilitation (CTR) have safety and efficacy comparable to traditional in-person cardiac rehabilitation, however, older adults are under-reported with effectiveness, feasibility, and usability remains unclear. The study randomized 43 older adults (84% males) to the 12-week CTR intervention or standard of care. Guided by Social Cognitive Theory, participants received individualized in-person assessment and e-coaching sessions, followed by CTR usage at home. Data were collected at baseline (T0), six-week (T1), and 12-week (T2). Participants in the CTR intervention group showed significant improvement in daily steps (T1: β=4126.58, p=0.001; T2: β=5285, p=0.01) and health-promoting lifestyle profile (T1: β=23.26, p<0.001; T2: β=12.18, p=0.008) across study endpoints. Twenty participants completed the intervention, with 40% used the website for data-uploading or experiential learning, 90% used the pedometer for tele-monitoring. Improving awareness of rehabilitation and an action focus were considered key facilitators while physical discomforts and difficulties in using the technology were described as the main barriers. The CTR is feasible, safe and effective in improving physical activity and healthy behaviors in older adults with CHD. Considering the variation in individual cardiovascular risk factors, full-scale RCT with a larger sample is needed to determine the effect of CTR on psychological symptoms, body weight and blood pressure, and quality of life.

Impact of Health Education Programme on Adherence to Treatment in Knee Osteoarthritis: An Interventional Study on Egyptian Patients.

To measure the level of adherence of patients with primary knee osteoarthritis (KOA) to an interventional therapeutic and rehabilitation programme and investigate factors that hinder patients' adherence. A total of 154 participants with primary knee osteoarthritis (KOA) were divided into intervention and control groups. The intervention protocol included patient education on the nature and treatment of KOA, therapeutic exercise, a weight loss programme for overweight patients, and a physical therapy programme. Participants were followed for 3months. The Visual Analog Scale for Pain (VAS-p), the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and knee Kellgren-Lawrence OA grading were measured before and after the intervention. Additionally, the Morisky adherence questionnaire and the WHO Multidimensional Framework for factors affecting adherence were assessed. One fifty four participants with KOA were randomly allocated into intervention and control groups. A low level of adherence was detected in both groups (68.8% in the intervention group vs. 84.4% in the control group). Patients who followed the interventional programme were more adherent. Adherence to therapy was associated with a reduction in the Visual Analog Scale for Pain (VAS-p) (p=0.016) and improved function as measured by WOMAC (p=0.018). Factors primarily associated with patient non-adherence included unemployment (67.8%), low income (59.3%), no previous response to therapy (58.5%), less frequent follow-up visits (55.1%), lack of insurance (66.9%), difficult access to services (59.3%), and high cost of services (55.1%). Adherence to treatment in OA patients is a significant concern and a common problem, appearing to be associated more with socioeconomic factors than with pain and function.

"Does My Kid Have an Ear Infection?" An Analysis of Pediatric Acute Otitis Media Videos on TikTok.

With the rise of social media, online platforms have become a common way to access healthcare information. This study examines the quality of pediatric acute otitis media (AOM) videos on TikTok, a popular short-form video social media platform. A TikTok search was conducted between 8/18 and 8/19/2023 using pediatric AOM hashtags: #pediatric acute otitis media management, #kid ear infections remedy, #child ear infections treatment, and #kid ear infection. Data collected include number of views/shares per day, uploader type (nonmedical influencer, lay individual, and medical professional), and content categories. The Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Audiovisual Material (PEMAT-AV) and DISCERN questionnaire measured understandability, actionability, and quality of videos. Multivariable linear regression models were used (significance set at ≤0.05). Of 166 videos, 38.6% (64) of uploaders were medical professionals, and 32.5% (54) were nonmedical influencers. Nonmedical influencer videos were viewed and shared significantly more than those by medical professionals (p < 0.05). Controlling for covariates, physicians were more likely to produce more beneficial and higher quality videos as compared with nonmedical influencers (β = 2.4 and 1.3, p < 0.01, respectively). However, physicians did not have significantly different ratings for understandability compared with nonmedical influencers (β = 0.45, p > 0.05). AOM content on TikTok is often geared toward caretakers of symptomatic children. Although physician-created AOM content was significantly higher quality, these videos reached a statistically smaller audience than those from nonmedical influencers. Addressing misinformation on social media platforms requires physicians to reach larger audiences by producing more actionable and understandable content. NA Laryngoscope, 134:5184-5192, 2024.

Tuberculosis treatment interruption: a qualitative exploration of barriers, challenges, coping strategies and facilitators in Malaysia.

Tuberculosis (TB) treatment interruption undermines the effectiveness of TB medications and jeopardizes treatment outcomes. This study aimed to explore barriers, challenges, coping strategies and facilitators of TB treatment interruption to understand the treatment pathway in achieving successful outcomes. In-depth interviews were conducted at public health clinics in Sarawak, Malaysia, utilizing a phenomenological approach. Thirty patients who experienced TB treatment interruption with eventual successful treatment were purposively selected based on various reasons for treatment interruption to obtain diverse viewpoints. The audio-recorded transcriptions underwent thematic and content analysis. Five major themes emerged under barriers and challenges: socioeconomic, patient, therapy, healthcare and condition-related factors. Notably, financial burdens led individuals to prioritize work over health. Adverse drug reactions resulted in inappropriate self-medication and healthcare dissatisfaction. Medication error with suboptimal dosing was another facet leading to treatment forfeiture. Lack of knowledge about treatment duration and medication adherence, along with negative personal factors such as laziness, dishonesty and forgetfulness were reported. Participants employed coping strategies to confront barriers and challenges, including acceptance and commitment to disease and treatment, self-adaptation in mental, physical and social aspects, and self-management of minor adverse events. Fear of disease worsening, previous experiences, social and financial supports, along with intrinsic motivators, were essential facilitators that prevented interruptions. Interconnectivity across the explored dimensions contextualized the understanding of TB treatment interruption and offered valuable information for designing patient-centered intervention strategies. Improving patient education coupled with tailored interventions addressing psychosocial and economic barriers is crucial for ensuring TB treatment completion.

Temporomandibular Disorders in Children and Adolescents

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is characterized by pain, dysfunction, and distress in the masticatory muscles and/or temporomandibular joints and associated structures. Despite its high prevalence in children and adolescents, exceeding 20%, TMD has not been extensively studied. Therefore, this review aimed to establish an overview of TMD in children and adolescents and describe its diagnosis and treatment. TMD more predominantly occurs in girls and has multifactorial etiologies, with several risk factors interacting differently at the individual level. TMD is associated with poor oral health-related quality of life and abnormal facial growth. The Diagnostic Criteria for TMD (DC/TMD) assessment protocol is used to diagnose TMD in young patients, and TMD can be effectively managed with conservative therapies such as patient education, home care, physical therapy, occlusal appliance therapy, and pharmacotherapy. During routine dental checkups, pediatric dentists can identify TMD in children and adolescents to reduce the occurrence of complications due to its chronic progression.

Effectiveness of integrated program on clinical care pathway for patients with heart failure upon competency of nurses

Cardiovascular disease is still the most common cause of death and disability in industrialized nations, and its prevalence is rising rapidly. Heart failure (HF) is increasingly common and incurs a substantial cost, both in terms of quality and length of life. Clinical pathways provide a means of implementing the most up-to-date guidance into clinical settings to improve the value and efficiency of the care provided. Methods: This study was conducted using the A Quasi-Experimental Time series Research design to assess the level of competency and to determine the effectiveness of clinical care pathway on management of patients with heart failure among 60 nurses (30 in Control and 30 in Intervention Group) from selected hospitals who were selected by consecutive sampling technique. The data was collected using pretested and validated tools such as background variables proforma of nurses, structured knowledge questionnaire and Observation Checklist on Practice of Integrated Program on Clinical Care Pathway for Heart Failure through self-administration method. Results: The study findings revealed that the mean knowledge score for heart failure management was significantly higher in the intervention group (25.50 ± 1.61) compared to the control group (17.87 ± 1.83). Additionally, their practice scores also were significantly higher across all components, days, and global scores in the intervention group (127.97 ± 3.43) than the control group (76.90 ± 7.60) with a p &lt; 0.001. Conclusion: An empowerment of nurses focusing on clinical pathway could improve knowledge on heart failure, which could lead to better patient care including patient education and could reduce patient readmission for heart failure.

Evaluating diclofenac's risks in COVID-19: strategies for mitigating adverse outcomes.

The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), particularly diclofenac, during the COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns due to its potential to worsen disease progression. This commentary evaluates key risks associated with diclofenac and highlights the critical role of pharmacists in mitigating adverse outcomes through careful medication management and patient education. Diclofenac poses unique risks due to its ability to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. In COVID-19, a disease characterized by hyperinflammation, these effects may exacerbate systemic inflammation, contributing to severe outcomes. Moreover, diclofenac's known association with increased cardiovascular risks, such as myocardial infarction and stroke, is especially concerning in patients with COVID-19, who are predisposed to thrombotic complications. The drug's hepatotoxic potential adds another layer of concern, particularly in patients with pre-existing liver dysfunction or those at higher risk due to COVID-19-related liver involvement. Pharmacists play a pivotal role in addressing these risks by conducting thorough medication reviews and assessing patient-specific risk factors. They can guide clinicians and patients toward safer alternatives, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, which demonstrate a lower oxidative and cardiovascular burden. Patient education is equally critical; pharmacists should counsel individuals on potential adverse effects of diclofenac, such as cardiovascular symptoms, renal dysfunction, and liver complications, while advising on lifestyle modifications and adjunctive therapies to reduce NSAID dependence. Additionally, pharmacists contribute to pharmacovigilance by monitoring patients for adverse drug reactions and reporting safety concerns to improve NSAID usage guidelines during the pandemic. By adopting a personalized approach to NSAID therapy, pharmacists can minimize risks and enhance patient safety, ultimately improving outcomes in the management of COVID-19 and other inflammatory conditions. This underscores their indispensable role in optimizing care during complex clinical scenarios.

Knowledge, attitude and practice of urticaria patients towards urticaria medication treatment: a cross-sectional study at the first affiliated hospital of Kunming Medical University

ObjectivesTo explore the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of urticaria patients regarding the medication treatment.Methods designA cross-sectional study.SettingAt the Dermatology Department of the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University...

Focus on patient perspectives in climate action policies for healthcare. A German survey analysis on what patients are willing to do

BackgroundThe healthcare sector, while dedicated to improving health, paradoxically contributes significantly to global carbon emissions, accounting for approximately 4.9% of global emissions. Despite growing public concern about climate change, few studies have explored patients’ awareness and attitudes toward the environmental impact of healthcare. This study aims to assess patients’ perspectives on climate change and the sustainability of healthcare practices.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted at Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU) Hospital in Munich, Germany. Patients were invited to participate in a voluntary, anonymous online survey via strategically placed QR codes throughout the hospital. The survey explored patients’ demographic information, environmental awareness, attitudes toward climate-friendly practices in healthcare, and willingness to support sustainable initiatives. Descriptive statistics and regression analyses were used to analyze the data.ResultsA total of 399 patients completed the survey (87% completion rate). The majority of respondents (92.3%) were aware of climate change, and 82.7% reported prioritizing climate-friendly practices in their personal lives. However, 55.9% of respondents were unaware of the healthcare system’s contribution to carbon emissions, and only 18.3% knew about hospitals’ climate impact. Despite this, 88.2% of respondents supported environmentally friendly initiatives in hospitals, and 86.5% were open to sustainable alternatives, provided that quality standards were maintained. Participants expressed significant interest in knowing the environmental impact of their treatments, with 63.2% in favor of a Nutri-Score-like system that would display the carbon footprint of medical procedures. Among those, 54.4% indicated that such a system would influence their choice of treatment. Similarly, 62.2% of respondents were interested in knowing the environmental impact of their medications, with 65% reporting that this information would affect their medication choices. A notable proportion of patients (66.2%) indicated willingness to support sustainable healthcare through shorter hospital stays and increased follow-up visits, while 35.8% were open to paying a CO2 compensation fee for their treatments. However, 81% were unwilling to pay higher insurance premiums to support environmentally friendly practices in hospitals. Regression analyses revealed that older age groups and having children were positively associated with environmental awareness (p &amp;lt; 0.05). However, factors such as gender, education level, relationship status, and illness severity did not significantly impact environmental attitudes. There was a significant correlation between patients’ environmental friendliness and their readiness to take climate-protective actions (p &amp;lt; 0.001).ConclusionThe study highlights a gap between patients’ environmental awareness and their knowledge of healthcare’s carbon footprint. While patients are generally supportive of sustainable practices in healthcare, their willingness to act diminishes when personal costs or discomfort are involved. A coordinated approach involving policy changes, patient education, and market innovations is essential to promote sustainable practices in healthcare without compromising patient care quality. Further research is needed to explore strategies for bridging the gap between environmental awareness and action in healthcare settings.

Integrating the health belief model into health education programs in a clinical setting.

The article demonstrates that health belief model (HBM)-based health education in hypertensive patients effectively improves blood pressure control and medication adherence at 3 months and 6 months. The HBM addresses perceived barriers, benefits, susceptibility, severity, and self-efficacy, leading to better health behaviors. HBM-based education has been effective in various contexts, including managing chronic diseases, promoting cancer screenings, and preventing infectious diseases. However, the model has limitations, such as cultural applicability and addressing complex health behaviors influenced by environmental factors. Future research should integrate HBM with other theories and conduct longitudinal studies to assess long-term impacts. Despite these limitations, HBM-based education significantly improves patient outcomes, highlighting its potential in health education and promotion when appropriately adapted and implemented. This reinforces the model's value in designing effective health interventions and advancing public health.

Producing Nuclear Disaster Prevention Materials with Artificial Intelligence Chatbots: Comparison of ChatGPT-3.5, Copilot, and Gemini Output with Google Search Results

Objective: To compare the understandability, actionability, and readability of AI chatbot-generated text and webpage text about nuclear disasters. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we compared the understandability, actionability, and readability of ChatGPT-3.5, Copilot, and Gemini generated texts and web page sentences about radiation. The keywords related to radiation were extracted using Google Trends. A Google search was performed using the extracted keywords, and the top 8 pages for each keyword were extracted. The AI chatbot generated two types of sentences: normal level and 6th grade level. The Japanese version of the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool (PEMAT-P) was used to rate the understandability and actionability of each text. The higher the score, the higher the perceived ease of understandability and actionability and the cutoff for both was set at 70%. The jReadability was used to quantitatively assess the readability of Japanese texts. Results: With regard to understandability, Copilot (n = 22, 71.0%) and Gemini (n = 26, 92.9%) 6th grade level texts had significantly higher percentages of 70 or higher, while Google Search had a significantly lower percentage of 70 or higher (n = 58, 32.8%; p &lt; .05). Gemini at the normal level (n = 69, 55.2%) and Copilot (n = 74, 55.6%) and Gemini (n = 73, 56.2%) at the 6th grade level had significantly higher percentages of very readable to somewhat difficult responses (p &lt; .05). Conclusions: The Japanese sentences generated by the AI chatbot were easier to read than the Google search results; the prompt of 6th grade level improved the readability of Japanese sentences. Thus, the AI chatbot can be an effective tool to promote understanding of radiation disaster prevention.

Educational video assistance in shared decision-making for psoriasis: Effectiveness and outcomes.

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition associated with significant comorbidities that impact quality of life. Effective patient engagement through shared decision-making (SDM) is crucial for optimal management. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of adding clinician-created educational videos in enhancing patient knowledge and engagement during SDM for psoriasis treatment. Forty-eight patients with moderate to severe psoriasis participated in this single-center study. After reading an educational pamphlet, patients took a knowledge assessment test. Subsequently, they watched an educational video and completed a second test using the same questions. Feedback questionnaires on the video and the SDM process were also administered. Paired t tests revealed that postpamphlet plus video test scores (mean ± SD: 86.25 ± 17.58) were significantly higher than postpamphlet scores (72.08 ± 26.33, p < 0.0001). Older patients, in particular, showed greater improvement in comprehension after watching the video. Descriptive analysis of the feedback questionnaire on the video indicated strong agreement (average score: 4.240 ± 0.816 on a five-point Likert scale) regarding its greater effectiveness compared with the pamphlet in aiding SDM. Patients also rated the video-assisted SDM process positively (average score: 4.521 ± 0.5443 on a five-point Likert scale), highlighting increased trust and improved communication with healthcare providers. These findings underscore the value of video-assisted SDM in patient education and decision-making processes, potentially improving treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction in dermatologic care.

Home Blood Pressure Measurements Are Not Performed According to Guidelines and Standardized Education Is Urgently Needed.

Patient education is needed to perform home blood pressure measurement (HBPM) according to blood pressure (BP) guidelines. It is not known how BP is measured at home and what education is provided, which was the aim of the study. Mixed-methods study among Australian adults who perform HBPM (June to December 2023). Participants completed a 30-item online survey on whether they followed guideline recommendations and the education they received for HBPM. Phone interviews were conducted among a purposive sample to further explore survey topics. Participants (n=350) were middle-aged (58±16 years; 54% women), and most (n=250, 71%) had hypertension. Guideline recommendations for HBPM were not always followed by survey participants. Most participants measured BP seated (n=316, 90%) with the cuff fitted to a bare arm (n=269, 77%). Only 15% measured BP in the morning and evening (n=54) and 26% averaged the BP readings over 7 days (n=90). Interview participants (n=34) described measuring BP at different times of the day after doing different things. One-third of participants (n=112, 37%) received education for HBPM, which interview participants described as vague verbal instructions from health care practitioners. Participants who received education did not perform high-quality HBPM. Participants who did not receive education mimicked BP measurement methods of health care practitioners, "I do it the way I've seen them do it." HBPM is not performed according to guideline recommendations, and adults who received ad hoc education did not perform high-quality HBPM. These findings highlight a need for effective education to support HBPM for clinical decision-making.

Diversifying Kidney Transplant Education: Assessing the Artificial Intelligence-Powered Capability of ChatGPT

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly advanced, significantly impacting medicine. ChatGPT, a new AI model, generates responses based on user input. This study evaluates ChatGPT’s ability to assist with pre- and post-kidney transplantation (KT) patient education. Methods: ChatGPT was queried about KT on 21 February 2023 and 2 March 2023. Questions were categorized into general information for pre-KT patients or donors and post-KT patient instructions. Two experts independently assessed the accuracy of ChatGPT’s responses, and the Flesch–Kincaid readability test was applied to evaluate readability. Results: ChatGPT’s responses to general pre-KT questions were clear, concise, and accurate but occasionally misleading. Post-transplant instructions were generally clear and partially concise but lacked supporting evidence. Instructions for emergency situations post-KT were typically safe and reliable, whereas medication-related directions were often inaccurate and unreliable. The mean Flesch–Kincaid readability score was 30, indicating that ChatGPT’s answers were not easy to understand. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that while ChatGPT can provide clear definitions, explain symptoms, and offer reasonable advice on managing medical situations after KT, it frequently gives misleading answers to scientific inquiries. Transplantation researchers and providers should recognize ChatGPT as a potential information source for patients but exercise caution due to its incomplete accuracy and lack of references.

Factors influencing patient satisfaction in home care services: A systematic review

Background Home care services are an extension of hospital services provided by hospital staff. The hospital must conduct evaluation, coordination, and education for home care patients to ensure proper care and expedite their recovery. This service also introduces a new concept to the community, as it can help save on costs and equipment. The purpose of this study has been added to the background, namely to determine what factors can influence patient satisfaction with home care services from previously published literature. A systematic review examined the factors influencing patient satisfaction using home care services by following the PRISMA guidelines. PROSPERO submitted and approved the study protocol with the following numbers: CRD42023482315. Researchers have searched articles through the ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. The researcher chose the three databases that are open access providers. Including Scopus and ScienceDirect are article search databases that can be accessed directly in the electronic resources of the University of Indonesia Library. The 10-year time span is considered as a source of literature that is still relevant to be used as a reference in evaluating home care service satisfaction. Result Two hundred eighty-eight articles were selected, but 10 met the inclusion criteria. It was found that factors influenced patient satisfaction with home care services and two things that did not affect them: financial aspects and working time. Conclusion Fifteen aspects influence patient satisfaction and two aspects that do not influence patient satisfaction. It is expected that the results of this literature review can be used as a reference for hospitals that provide home care services to pay attention to aspects that can affect satisfaction. The author realizes that the varying methods in the articles reviewed are deficiencies in the results of this study.

Patients' Ability to Self-Manage Their Surgical Wound to Prevent Wound Complications: A Cross-Sectional Study.

To provide insights into postdischarge patients' experiences and preferences regarding surgical wound care education at discharge in the Netherlands. Patient involvement in wound care practices postdischarge is beneficial for the prevention of surgical site infections and has become an essential component in reducing the burden on healthcare systems. Surgical wound care discharge education is crucial to achieve this. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using the 18-item Surgical Wounds And Patient Participation Questionnaire on patients who underwent surgery between January and May 2022. The survey was administered 2 weeks postoperatively. In total, 213 patients completed the survey. Most patients preferred verbal instructions about their surgical wound care (n = 146; 84.9%) at the time of discharge, with 52.3% indicating a preference for multiple forms of information. Approximately three-quarters of patients (n = 99; 76.7%) responded that they were able to successfully take care of their wounds at home and 16.3% indicated wound self-care inability. Our study highlighted patients' preferences for verbal instructions about their surgical wound care at the time of discharge. Notably, half of the patients expressed a desire for multiple forms of information. Furthermore, we identified gaps in the information provided to patients, indicating areas for improvement in discharge communication. The identified gaps in surgical wound care discharge education offer opportunities to enhance in-hospital education by aligning it more closely with patient preferences and providing education of topics often missed. This could ultimately improve their ability to self-manage their surgical wound at home. Future research should delve deeper into understanding the factors influencing patients' ability to self-manage their wounds. Despite the acknowledged importance of patient education on surgical wound care, there is limited literature regarding patients' experiences and preferences in this area. The findings of this study highlight patients' preferences for verbal instructions and reveal gaps in the information provided to patients about surgical wound care at the time of discharge. The identified gaps in information provided to surgical patients offer opportunities to enhance in-hospital education by healthcare professionals. We adhered to the STROBE guideline. No patient or public contribution.

Advancing Glaucoma Treatment During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Contemporary Management Strategies and Prospective Therapeutic Developments

The management of glaucoma in pregnancy and breastfeeding requires a careful evaluation of treatment choices to guarantee the well-being of both the mother and the developing fetus. This review explores the intricacies of controlling glaucoma in pregnant and breastfeeding women, including a comprehensive overview of existing glaucoma treatment methods, clinical guidelines, and future therapeutic approaches. The efficacy and safety profiles of traditional treatment approaches, such as topical and systemic medicines and surgical treatments, are evaluated specifically about their use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The significance of personalized treatment programs to achieve a balance between controlling intraocular pressure and ensuring the safety of the fetus and the newborn and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach that includes ophthalmologists, obstetricians, and other healthcare experts are underlined. Non-pharmacological therapies, lifestyle adjustments, and the importance of patient education in the management of glaucoma during pregnancy and the post-partum period are also examined. Advancing our comprehension of and strategy toward glaucoma can reduce the effects of glaucoma on maternal, fetal, and newborn well-being.

Maternal and Fetal Outcome in Pregnancy with diabetes mellitus: Study in a district hospital, Jamalpur, Bangladesh

Cardiac disease is an important cause of maternal mortality and morbidity in antepartum and postpartum period. Objectives of our study was to determine maternal and fetal outcome in pregnant women in Bangladesh.This was a cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in the department of Obstretics &amp; Gynecology in 250 bedded General Hospital, Jamalpur, Bangladesh during the period from January 2018 to in December 2018. The aim of this study was to find out the maternal and fetal outcome of the pregnancies complicated by pre-gestational and gestational diabetes mellitus. In this study, a total of 225 patients were selected using purposive sampling technique. There were three groups of pre-gestational diabetic, gestational diabetic and non-diabetic control, designated as Group A, Group B, Group C accordingly; and each consists of 75 patients. Information collected from all pregnant women (After 28 weeks of gestation) with diagnosed GDM and Pre-GDM and symptoms signs suggestive of GDM and Pre-GDM later confirmed by relevant investigation (FBS, 2h PPBS &amp; HbA1C) using a questionnaire made for recoding all relevant parameters under study, after proper counseling and taking written consent of the patient or her legal guardian admitted during the study period in obstetric ward in Rangpur Medical College &amp; Hospital, Rangpur. Results: History of GDM was significantly more common among patients with pre-GDM (38%) and GDM (18%) compared to controls. History of abortion, IUFD and congenital anomaly were significantly higher among pre-GDM mothers than GDM mothers and controls (p&lt;0.05). History of deliveries with macrosomia and still birth was distributed similarly across the groups (p&gt;0.05). Pre–GDM and GDM patients had significantly higher number of patients with HbA1C &gt;6.5% than controls. Mean FBS and PPBS was significantly higher in pre-GDM &amp; GDM patients than control (p&lt;0.05). APGAR score was &lt;7 in significantly higher number of pre–GDM and GDM babies than controls (p &lt;0.05). Mean Weight of the babies was significantly lower among pre–GDM patients than GDM patients (p &lt;0.05). Among pre–GDM patients and GDM patient’s cases of birth asphyxia, Hypoglycemia, hyperbilirubinemia and congenital anomalies were significantly higher than controls (p&lt; 0.05). Conclusion: Interventions such as preconception care for women with pre-gestational diabetes, screening for early diagnosis, patient education, multidisciplinary approach and good metabolic control maintained throughout the pregnancy is the key to successful fetomaternal outcome.

&lt;b&gt;IMPACT OF DIABETES ON TUBERCULOSIS TREATMENT OUTCOMES: EDITORIAL PERSPECTIVE&lt;/b&gt;

Diabetes mellitus (DM) significantly alters tuberculosis (TB) treatment outcomes due to immune dysfunction, drug interactions, and limited access to integrated care. The coexistence of these conditions exacerbates global health disparities, particularly in low-resource settings. Diabetic patients with TB frequently exhibit delayed sputum conversion, higher relapse rates, and poorer cure outcomes than non-diabetic counterparts. Addressing these challenges requires an interdisciplinary approach combining better glycemic control, robust healthcare integration, and patient education. This editorial evaluates the interplay between DM and TB, discusses barriers to effective treatment, and highlights strategies to improve cure rates, advocating for targeted interventions to reduce the dual disease burden globally.