Population Of Chennai Research Articles

Effectiveness of Virtual - Compensatory Cognitive Training (V-CCT) for improving cognition in persons with schizophrenia - a multi- centre randomized controlled trial

BackgroundCognitive deficits are the core component in persons with schizophrenia which impacts their socio-occupational functioning. Also, cognitive deficits cause significant impairment with the person’s quality of life [3]. Hence, targeting such a pivotal aspect in persons with schizophrenia through suitable interventions is very important. Developed countries have designed various cognitive remediation programs using computers involving high-end software which cannot be generalized to low-resource settings, like India, due to various factors including sociocultural factors, educational standards, and living standards of the patient population. Compensatory cognitive training (CCT) was developed to be “brief, practical, low-tech” and found to be effective in the west [9]. As there are no structured cognitive intervention modules in India, we have adapted the English CCT manual to be used for an urban population in Chennai, India. CCT was found to be feasible in face-to-face group sessions in our setting [12] and is found to be feasible and acceptable as virtual one–one intervention (unpublished data). Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of V-CCT in enhancing cognition and socio-occupational functioning.MethodsThe proposed study will be a multicenter assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial at two clinical sites in Chennai, India. The preparatory phase of the study would include translation of the manual to the local language, recruitment and training of research assistants, and pilot testing using the translated manual. The second phase will be the main randomized controlled trial (RCT), during which a total of 160 persons diagnosed with schizophrenia will be recruited from both sites. After obtaining informed consent, baseline assessments will be conducted on cognition, functioning, self-esteem, and quality of life. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the virtual CCT group or the control group using a computer-generated randomization table. End-line assessments will be conducted 6 weeks after the baseline by research assistants who are blinded to the randomization post-intervention.DiscussionIf V-CCT is found to be effective, it will be available for use in Tamil for persons with schizophrenia, and it will have an effect on their functioning, quality of life, and self-esteem.Trial registrationThe study is registered under Clinical trial registry-India (CTRI), and the registration number is CTRI/2024/04/065267. Registered on April 2024.

Assessment of Knowledge and Awareness of Cleft Lip and Palate Management among Adult Population in Chennai

Assessment of Knowledge and Awareness of Cleft Lip and Palate Management among Adult Population in Chennai

Contraceptive behaviors and awareness in an urban slum community of south India

Objective: To assess the factors associated with knowledge, attitude and behavior of contraception use among urban slum population in Chennai. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the urban slum of Anakaputhur, Chennai. Married couples between ages of 19-49 years and living in slum areas were taken up for the study by simple random sampling. Pregnant women, postnatal and postmenopausal women were excluded from the study. Data collection was done using a pretested structured questionnaire focusing on details regarding contraception knowledge, attitude, and practices. Data analysis was done using IBM SPSS version 22. Analytical test like Chi square and odds ratio (OR) were used to identify association between knowledge, attitude, and behavior of contraception with the associated variables and enter method of logistic regression analysis was done. Results: Out of the 360 respondents, 228 were females, with a mean age of (34±5) years. Approximately 43% demonstrated adequate knowledge of contraception use, and 91% were aware of at least one contraceptive method. Notably, 72% exhibited a positive attitude towards contraceptive use. Nevertheless, 43% (155 individuals) did not utilize any contraceptive method. Among contraceptive users, intrauterine devices were the most commonly adopted, followed by barrier methods and female sterilization. There was significant association between knowledge of contraception and education (aOR 7.29, 95% CI 2.93-18.10, P<0.05), age (aOR 2.04, 95% CI 1.193.50, P<0.05) and socioeconomic class (aOR 3.66, 95% CI 1.71-7.85, P<0.05; aOR 3.97, 95% CI 2.12-7.49, P<0.05). Regarding attitude towards contraception use, education (aOR 8.54, 95% CI 2.35-31.03, P<0.05), sex (aOR 0.15, 95% CI 0.06-0.37, P<0.05), age (aOR 0.53, 95% CI 0.28-0.99, P<0.05), socio-economic class (aOR 4.42, 95% CI 1.97-9.92, P<0.05; aOR 9.83, 95% CI 3.63-26.58, P<0.05) and number of children (aOR 10.04, 95% CI 4.26-23.66, P<0.05) were the variables that had a significant association. Conclusions: These findings underscore the imperative for enhanced dissemination of health education pertaining to contraception use within the slum population. The health sectors of the area and other stakeholders need to make sure to extend penetration of family planning related services to the urban slum population.

IJCM_174A: Lifestyle risk factors among homeless adults in Chennai- A Cross Sectional Study

Background: India defines ‘homeless’ as those who do not live in Census houses, but rather stay on pavements, roadsides, railway platforms, staircases, temples, streets, in pipes, or other open spaces. According to 2018 GCC enumeration of urban homeless, there are 3764 men and 2962 women, in total 6726 adult population. As they have a relatively different lifestyle, it is essential to know about their lifestyle risk factors and their accessibility to healthcare. In order to attain our Sustainable Development goals, in particular SDG 3- it is essential to target the well being of the homeless population. Objective: To estimate the lifestyle risk factors among homeless population in Chennai. Methodology: All adults who were 18 years and above and who fit in the criteria for homeless where taken for the study and an Interviewer administered pre-designed questionnaire, under the following Socio Demographic Details, Behavioural Measurements which included tobacco use, alcohol consumption, diet, lifestyle advice and physical activity was used to ascertain the lifestyle risk factors among the homeless. Data was entered in MS excel and analyzed using SPSS-21. Results: Out of 341 participants, 70.7% were females,27.3% males and 2.1% transgender. 27.6% had a habit of smoking daily and among that 24.9% were using smokeless tobacco. 15% had a habit of drinking alcohol. In the past one year 57.2% had visited the hospital and 44% had visited a government facility. 27.3% did moderate work and 14.4% vigorious work. 1.5% had a habit of doing moderate exercise on a daily basis.76.8% and 54.8% had undergone screening for hypertension and diabetes mellitus respectively. Conclusion: Spreading awareness to the homeless population on lifestyle risk factors is essential to ensure their healthy living.

IJCM_87A: Immunization status among children living in streets of Chennai - A cross sectional study

Background: The homeless population of Chennai is the people who are living in the platforms, bus stands and other unused buildings in Chennai for more than three generations. Many of them lack basic amenities for their living, which makes them a vulnerable population especially the women and children. The children especially are prone to many communicable diseases as a result of their way of living Objective: To estimate the immunization status among the children of homeless population in Chennai. Methodology: The information about the clusters of homeless population is obtained from the Greater Chennai Corporation enumeration. Individual clusters are mapped in Zone 5 of Greater Chennai Corporation. Almost all the mothers of children of age up to 5 years are interviewed. Data collected using Epicollect5 data collection software. Results: The mean age of the children was 34.59 + 17.73 months. 45.4% were male children and 54.6% were female children.98.9% of the mothers registered their pregnancy and 100% delivered in the public facility. 93.4% registered their birth. 87.4 % of the children got enrolled in Anganwadis. 90.5% of the children were immunized up to age. Only one child (0.4%) didn’t get the birth dose of BCG. 18 children (6.6%) didn’t get their Measles Rubella vaccine not even once. 28 children (10.3%) didn’t get their second dose of Measles Rubella vaccine and Diptheria Pertussis Tetanus vaccine. Conclusion: The immunization coverage among homeless children upto 5 years is 90.5%. The coverage has to be strengthened in order to improve their quality of life

A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY TO ASSESS THE LEVEL OF AWARENESS, KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE TOWARDS BASIC LIFE SUPPORT AMONG NON-MEDICAL ADULT POPULATION IN THE CITY OF CHENNAI

Knowledge of BLS and practice of simple CPR techniques increase the chances of survival of the patient until experienced medical help arrives and, in most cases, is suffi cient for survival in itself. It is important that those who may be present at the scene of a cardiac arrest, particularly lay bystanders, have knowledge of appropriate resuscitation skills and the ability to put these into practice. Therefore, this study was done to assess the level of knowledge, attitude and practices regarding Basic Life Support among nonmedical adult population in Chennai.

Evaluación del estado de salud bucal, necesidades autopercibidas, necesidades insatisfechas y barreras para la utilización de servicios dentales entre la población de edad avanzada institucionalizada en Chennai, India: Un estudio transversal

Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the oral health status and identify oral health perceived and unmet needs, and barriers in utilization of dental services among institutionalized elderly population in Chennai. Materials and Methods: Across sectional study was conducted among institutionalized an elderly population aged 65-74 years. Oral health status was assessed using the WHO Oral Health Assessment Form (2013). Self-perceived oral health needs and barriers in the utilization of dental services were assessed using a pre-tested questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and Pearson Chi Square Test was done to analyse the data. Results: There was a high frequency of periodontitis among the study participants. The unmet oral health needs were high. The self-perceived oral health condition was good among the study participants. The major barrier for utilization of dental services was the lack of information on oral health. Conclusions: In India, which is a developing country, a low level of dental care results from low-level financing of the Indian health care system. This, however, does not mean that even in the current poor economic conditions, it is impossible to improve the dental awareness of the residents of care homes. The improvement is also possible through the inclusion of dental check-ups into the schedule of general dental examinations of the residents performed once in 6 months. Keywords: Oral health; Needs assessment; Barriers to access of health services; Aged; Health of institutionalized elderly; Dental care for aged

Awareness, knowledge and attitude towards CPR, BLS training among general population in Chennai – A cross sectional survey

Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death globally. The likelihood of survival is doubled when basic life support procedures are performed immediately. As a result, the purpose of this study was to assess public awareness, understanding, and attitude towards basic life support and CPR in Chennai population.The study was done among general population in Chennai, India, utilising a printed questionnaire with 15 questions each. A pilot study was conducted among 40 individuals in Chennai city. Power analysis was performed to calculate the sample size by using Open Epi, Version 3, open – source calculator – SSPropor The data was analysed using descriptive statistics. 1200 individuals participated in the survey. Of the final population (n =1200) majority of people are unaware about the significance of basic life support and CPR. From this survey we could able to find the positive attitude of public towards learning the CPR. The most important concern about performing CPR was making a mistake and legal issues. Noteworthy is the positive attitude towards learning CPR & BLS courses among common public, which provides a solid foundation for improving CPR training implementation. However, the majority of youngsters reported a lack of training opportunities, emphasising the need for more aggressive implementation.

Association of leptin gene polymorphism with obesity

Obesity is a multifactorial disorder with a high morbidity rate worldwide and is associated with various diseases. Certain mutations in the leptin receptor (LEPR) gene may cause splicing abnormality resulting in a truncated receptor, aberrant signal transduction, leptin resistance, and obesity. A cross-sectional analysis was performed to assess the association of Q223R, K109R, and K656N polymorphisms with obesity and overweight in 293 subjects (obesity n= 136, overweight n=44 and controls = 113) belonging to the rural population of Chennai using PCR-RFLP and in silico analysis. The analysis of Q223R in of leptin gene showed a significant association with obesity and overweight individuals when compared with controls (P<0.05). In obesity, heterozygote genotype showed correlation (OR=0.53, p-value=0.03), demonstrating risk association in the study groups. Also, a significant association was observed in the overweight group having a heterozygous genotype (OR=0.32 p-value=0.005). Analysis of K109R showed no association between obesity and overweight (OR=1.18 in obesity, p-value=.0.368, OR=1.02 p=0.575 in overweight). K656N showed a significant association in overweight individuals (OR=2.34, p-value = 0.0162) and no association with obesity (OR= 2.81, p-value 0.075). The functional impact prediction resulted in typing all the alterations not to be damaging or deleterious, with K656N alone predicted to influence the functioning of the protein. The structural impact prediction showed that all the alterations have a destabilizing effect on the resultant protein. The study showed that Q223R is associated with obesity and overweight. K109R showed no association with obesity and overweight. K656N was significantly associated with overweight but showed no association with obesity. However, scale-up studies from ethnic populations related to more than one risk factor could accomplish obesity pathogenesis.

Abstract #1402867: Association of Corneal Sensitivity with Indian Diabetes Risk Score in Asian Indians The Chennai Urban Rural Epidemiology Study (Cures)

The association of the Indian Diabetes Risk Score (IDRS) with markers of atherosclerotic changes has been reported by us earlier. Loss of corneal sensation has been reported in people with diabetes and its association with carotid intimal thickness (a marker, strongly associated with cardiovascular disease) has been documented earlier. This paper deals with the relationship between loss of corneal sensitivity and IDRS. Subjects without known diabetes (n=1,388) were selected from the Chennai Urban Rural Epidemiology Study, a population-based study on a representative population (aged ≥20 years) of Chennai, the largest city in Southern India. Serum lipids were measured in an overnight fasting sample along with other biochemical parameters. Corneal sensitivity was measured using a Cochet Bonnet aesthesiometer (C-BA (model II; Luneau Ophthalmlogie, Chartres, France) and graded as normal (60 mm), moderately reduced (55 mm) and significantly reduced (≤50 mm). The MDRF-IDRS is a simple risk score to aid in the detection of undiagnosed diabetes in the community, which uses four simple parameters, viz., age, waist circumference, family history of diabetes and physical activity. Subjects with MDRF-IDRS value of <30 were categorized as low risk, those between 30 and 50 as moderate risk and those with ≥60 as high risk for diabetes. Individuals with high IDRS had significantly high values of fasting plasma glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol and HbA1c compared to those with moderate and low risk IDRS (p value of <0.001). When categorised based on IDRS, the individuals with high risk for diabetes (score of ≥60) had significantly reduced (≤50 mm) corneal sensitivity in 7.2 % % compared to 1.2% among those with moderate risk IDRS group and none in the low risk IDRS group. Same trend was observed with moderately reduced corneal sensitivity, from 1.9 % vs 10% vs 19.6 % in low, moderate and high risk IDRS group (p value of <0.001). This study shows that simple tool IDRS can be used to screen for those with reduced corneal sensation.

On the Y chromosome of Chennai, Tamil Nadu and the Indian subcontinent

Several migratory waves from various origins along with cultural practices restricting marriages between people of different castes and tribes as well as continued endogamy have led to a complex and diverse society in the Indian subcontinent. Despite being widely represented in genetic studies, several interrogatives remain with regards to India’s current genetic constituents and distributions, source populations and population relationships. To identify the forces that may have shaped Indian population’s genetic relationships, we undertook a comprehensive comparative study of the Y-chromosomes across India utilizing Y-STR and Y-SNP chromosomal markers using the general population of Chennai in the state of Tamil Nadu as a point of reference. Our analyses identify differences in source populations for different regions within India, unique linguistic characteristics as well as demographic and cultural forces that may have shaped population structure.

Prevalence of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Urban Adult Population in a Tertiary Care Center, Chennai.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is becoming one of the most common liver diseases among the Indian population. The predisposing factors for NAFLD are diet, lifestyle modifications, and lack of exercise. There is a paucity of research on NAFLD in the South Indian population. Hence, the present study aimed to assess the prevalence of NAFLD among the urban adult population in Chennai. This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in General Medicine outpatient departments at a tertiary care center in Chennai. The study included 510 non-alcoholic adults (both male and female) aged between 21 and 40 years. Ultrasonography was performed to rule out fatty liver in all participants. All the results obtained were statistically analyzed using SPSS software version 22.0. The frequency was given in percentage. The proportion of participants who screened positive for NAFLD was 61.5%. The participants with higher body mass index (BMI) were found to be significantly 23.09 times higher risk of developing NAFLD. An increase in age was also found to be a predictor of NAFLD. This study also supports that males are more prone to develop NAFLD and are at a 1.59% higher risk of developing the disease than females. Fatty liver has become one of the common non-communicable diseases in India, the high prevalence of NAFLD in the present study supports it. Therefore, people should have regular screening and diagnosis to rule out fatty liver disease. Proper diet patterns and exercise must be followed to prevent fatty liver.

Awareness on Oral Disorders in Diabetes Mellitus among General Population in Chennai

Objective: To evaluate the awareness on oral manifestation of diabetes in general population in Chennai. Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM), according to the World Health Organization is a silent epidemic which affects large number of people around the world and is directly related to the oral health status of the patients. DM is a metabolic disorder of multiple etiologies due to disturbances of carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism. It is characterized by chronic hyperglycemia, and it is associated with oral disorders, cardiovascular, and renal complications. These complications result in diminished quality of life and reduced life expectancy. Although dental caries was comparatively low in diabetics, periodontal status was compromised. Awareness on diabetes and increase risk of oral disorders in diabetic patient is comparatively less than awareness on systemic diseases in general population. Hence, this study was conducted to evaluate awareness and educate them by reinforcing the importance of oral health care in diabetes. Methodology: A total of 159 self‑completion questionnaires were distributed to assess the main objectives of the study. Results: The awareness of public toward increased risk for oral diseases in diabetes is low compared to their awareness of systemic diseases. On average, only 41.8% people is aware of an oral complication of DM, which is very low and 58.2% of population is unaware of a complication of DM. Conclusion: People were found to have little knowledge on oral manifestation of DM. To promote proper oral health and to reduce the risk of oral diseases, health professionals in both the dental and medical fields need to take the responsibility to develop programs to educate the public about the oral manifestations of diabetes and its complications on oral health.

Prevalence and Anatomic Variations of Lingual Foramina and Lingual Canal in Anterior Mandible Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography – A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Rich neurovascular supply in the anterior mandible necessitates a preoperative radiological assessment of the lingual foramina/canal where cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) could produce promising results. Aim: To assess the prevalence of lingual foramina and canal in mandible and variations in their anatomy in a hospital-based population in Chennai. Methodology: Sagittal sections of the anterior mandible from CBCT images of 140 patients were evaluated for number, location of the lingual foramen, length of the lingual canal, a distance of lingual foramen from the alveolar crest and inferior border of the mandible, and thickness of the lingual cortex. Results: A total of 166 lingual foramina-canals were identified in 140 individuals; 82.1% presented with one, 15.1% with two, and 2.1% with three lingual foramina canals. The majority of foramina (79.51%) were located above the genial tubercles. The mean lengths of the superior, middle, and inferior canals were 5.45 ± 1.34, 5.00 ± 1.73, and 3.92 ± 1.10 mm, respectively. The mean thickness of the lingual cortex was 2.35 ± 0.55 mm. The distance from the inferior lingual foramina to the alveolar crest was significantly greater in males (P = 0.001). Conclusion: Anatomical characteristics of lingual foramen-canal varied significantly across the total sample.

Effectiveness of the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 Coronavirus Vaccine (CovishieldTM) in Preventing SARS-CoV2 Infection, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, 2021

We estimated the effectiveness of two doses of the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 (Covishield) vaccine against any COVID-19 infection among individuals ≥45 years in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. A community-based cohort study was conducted from May to September 2021 in a selected geographic area in Chennai. The estimated sample size was 10,232. We enrolled 69,435 individuals, of which 21,793 were above 45 years. Two-dose coverage of Covishield in the 18+ and 45+ age group was 18% and 31%, respectively. Genomic analysis of 74 out of the 90 aliquots collected from the 303 COVID-19-positive individuals in the 45+ age group showed delta variants and their sub-lineages. The vaccine’s effectiveness against COVID-19 disease in the ≥45 age group was 61.3% (95% CI: 43.6–73.4) at least 2 weeks after receiving the second dose of Covishield. We demonstrated the effectiveness of two doses of the ChAdOx1 vaccine against the delta variant in the general population of Chennai. We recommend similar future studies considering emerging variants and newer vaccines. Two-dose vaccine coverage could be ensured to protect against COVID-19 infection.

Assessment of oral health status among intellectually and physically disabled population in Chennai.

Background:Oral health is an integral part of general health. In certain populations, especially among intellectually and physically disabled individuals, oral health is neglected. People with disabilities deserve the same opportunities for oral health and hygiene as those who are abled, but sadly dental care is the most common unmet health care need of the disabled people.Aim:The purpose of the study is to assess the oral health status and dental care utilization of people above 15 years with intellectual and physical disability in Chennai.Methodology:A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out to assess the dental caries experience, gingival status, prevalence of fluorosis and lesion, and dental service utilization among 132 intellectually and physically disabled people in Chennai. After obtaining the caregivers consent of the participants, oral health was assessed using the World Health Organization (WHO) proforma, 2013. Statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences Version 23.Results:When DMFT indexes were examined with regard to sex, the mean DMFT was found to be higher for males with 1.453 ± 1.847 whereas females have 1.403 ± 1.73, and mean DMFT was found to be more for the 26–35 years age group with 2.3 ± 2.01. 81.8% of the population had no gingival bleeding whereas only 18.18% had gingival bleeding.Conclusion:With the obtained results, people with physical disability have a high mean DMFT compared with intellectual disability. The present study showed dental negligence among mentally disabled population where the parents, caretakers, and dentists are responsible.

Knowledge and Awareness of Chronic Lower Respiratory Diseases among Smokers Population in Chennai, India: A Cross Sectional Questionnaire Survey

Aim: To analyse the knowledge and awareness of chronic lower respiratory diseases among the smoker population.&#x0D; Introduction: Tobacco is a key toxin in our civilization. Tobacco use and smoking is currently one of the leading causes of death and morbidity in both developed and developing nations. Tobacco is made from a plant native to South America, specifically Peru and Ecuador. Tobacco was originally brought to Europe from America in the fourteenth century for medical purposes.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: The study to evaluate Knowledge and Awareness of chronic lower &#x0D; respiratory diseases among smokers population in Chennai, India. The targeted population for the study was 110 individuals within the age groups of 18-30. In this study, there was a formulation and distribution of a survey/ questionnaire, which was conducted among the students. The questionnaire consisted of twelve general questions to test not only their knowledge but also their awareness of the issue. Only completely filled online forms were included in the study. The filled responses were verified by two reviewers and the collected data was entered on the same day. The entered data was analysed using SPSS. Pearson Chi-square was performed to calculate frequencies of categorical variables.&#x0D; Results: Symptoms cannot be seen and do not show up on medical tests. Some examples of symptoms are headache, fatigue, nausea and pain vary from each illness and diseases. 60% responded with their current symptoms as shortness of breath, 35% with coughing, 1.67% experiencing wheezing, 3.33% with lack of energy. Pearson Chi-square value was calculated, with values being statistically significant (p value is 0.000).&#x0D; Conclusion: Smoking is clearly linked to systemic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, lung problems, and various cancers. Smoking is proven to be harmful to mothers and children in particular. Cigarette smoking has a detrimental impact on the oral cavity.

Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Proper Handling of a Face Mask during Pandemic of COVID - 19 amongst the General Population in Chennai – A Survey

Background: Facemasks have become a mandatory to prevent the pandemic spread of COVID-19. It can be utilized as part of a broader strategy to reduce transmission and save lives. However, there are several basic conditions for using masks that the general population is unaware of. People should be highly aware of the proper handling, usage and disposal of the facemask to prevent the spread.&#x0D; Aim: The aim of the study is to analyze the general public's knowledge, attitude, and practice of correct face mask handling during a covid-19 epidemic, with the hope of providing the essential awareness to prevent future worsening crises.&#x0D; Methods: The survey was conducted among general population. A total of 130 participants participated in the knowledge, awareness and practice assessment survey and the questionnaire was distributed online using Google survey forms. The data were collected, tabulated in excel and statistically analyzed using SPSS IBM version 20.0. Descriptive analysis &amp; Pearson’s chi square test statistical analysis were performed.&#x0D; Results: The results of the study showed that majority of the population preferred to wear face mask and 81.5 % believed that facemasks provides protection against corona virus; 3.1 % participants did not agree and 15.4 % participants were in dilemma.&#x0D; Conclusions: Our results showed that some practices among young people could be regarded more appropriate than in the older people which quantify the need of more awareness campaign regarding the standardization, protocols, guidelines and strict implementation on the handling, usage and disposal of mask to minimize the pandemic spread.

Examine the impact of COVID-19 Vaccine Communication, Acceptance and Practice (CO-VIN-CAP) on Vaccine hesitancy in an Indian setting: Protocol for a Cross-Sectional Study.

BackgroundCOVID-19 vaccines are considered to be a key to limiting and eliminating the infectious disease. However, the success of the vaccination program will rely on the rates of vaccine acceptance among the population.ObjectiveThis study aims to examine the factors that influence vaccine hesitancy and vaccine acceptance, and to explore the unintended consequences of COVID-19 infections. The study will further explore the association between sociodemographic characteristics; health status; COVID-19–related knowledge, attitude, and practices; and its influence on vaccine hesitancy and acceptance among individuals living in urban and rural settings of Chennai, Tamil Nadu in the southern state of India.MethodsA cross-sectional study will be conducted between January 2021 and January 2023. A sample of approximately 25,000 individuals will be recruited and enrolled using a nonprobability complete enumeration sampling method from 11 selected urban and rural settings of Chennai. The data will be collected at one time point by administering the questionnaire to the eligible study participants. The collected data will be used to assess the rates of vaccine acceptance; hesitancy; and knowledge, attitudes, practices, and beliefs regarding COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccines. Lastly, the study questionnaire will be used to assess the unintended consequences of COVID-19 infection.ResultsA pilot of 2500 individuals has been conducted to pretest the survey questionnaire. The data collection was initiated on March 1, 2021, and the initial results are planned for publication by June 2021. Descriptive analysis of the gathered data will be performed using SAS v9.1, and reporting of the results will be done at 95% CIs and P=.049. The study will help explore the burden of vaccine acceptance and hesitancy among individuals living in urban and rural settings of Chennai. Further, it will help to examine the variables that influence vaccine acceptance and hesitancy. Lastly, the findings will help to design and develop a user-centered informatics platform that can deliver multimedia-driven health education modules tailored to facilitate vaccine uptake in varied settings.ConclusionsThe proposed study will help in understanding the rate and determinants of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and hesitancy among the population of Chennai. The findings of the study would further facilitate the development of a multifaceted intervention to enhance vaccine acceptance among the population.International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)DERR1-10.2196/29733

Is COVID-19 a hoax? Correlation between beliefs related to COVID-19 and the use of preventive measures in India

Background: Following the personal protective and preventive measures are vital to the control and prevention of transmission. The populations’ beliefs and attitude related to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have a direct impact on their practice of preventive measures. Therefore, this study was conducted to explore the beliefs, attitude and preventive practices related to COVID-19 among the general population of Chennai, Tamil Nadu.Methods: An online questionnaire with 12 questions concerning the beliefs, attitude and practice of preventive measures related to COVID-19 was distributed via social platforms. Data were entered in Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and analyzed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) software (version 21, IBM Corporation, Texas, USA). Bivariate analysis (Chi-square test) was used to assess the association between independent variables with each of the main outcomes of interest.Results: A total of 256 study subjects participated in this survey. About 69.9% believed in the existence of corona virus and &gt;85% followed the government protocols. Social distancing and Frequent hand washing was chosen by majority of the study subjects (55.5% and 78.5% respectively) as the most effective measure to prevent viral transmission. Nearly 81.7% always wore a mask in public and 27.0% always kept &gt;6 feet distance apart from others.Conclusions: The surveyed population has an acceptable level of positive beliefs, attitude, and good practices towards COVID-19. We recommend that emphasis should be placed on educating people belonging to lower education and income strata. Vulnerable populations who require proper health education and guidance for prevention and control of COVID-19 should be targeted.