Reproductive Group Research Articles

Correlational studies on clinical and laboratory diagnoses of Trichomonas vaginalis coinfection with HIV candidiasis and syphilis among women of reproductive age in Jalingo North-central Nigeria

Background & objective: The high prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis infection globally and the frequency of co-infection with other STIs make Trichomoniasis a compelling public health concern. Research has shown that T. vaginalis infection is associated with high risk of several sexually transmitted infections. This study was to provide information on the coinfection rate with some STDs and the correlation between clinical diagnoses and confirmatory laboratory diagnosis among women of reproductive age in Jalingo. Methods: A prospective, cross-sectional and laboratory- based research was carried out on the Correlational studies on clinical and laboratory diagnoses of T. vaginalis and it co-infection with HIV Candidiasis and Syphilis among women of reproductive age in Jalingo North-Central Nigeria, between November 2022 to March 2023. A health facility (Mimllins Laboratories Limited) was selected from Jalingo local government area. One hundred (100) Women within the reproductive age group of 15 to 50 years, seeking health care in the selected facility that fulfilled the inclusion criteria and grant consent were enrolled. A pretested structured interviewer’s questionnaire was used to collect data on clinical presentation. Results: A total of 100 eligible women between the ages of 15 to 50 years’ resident in Jalingo, Taraba State and attends to at the selected facility were examined. The overall prevalence of Trichomoniasis among the general population was 13%. For co-infection rates with HIV, syphilis, and Candidiasis, all the HIV-infected participants (4) had T. vaginalis infection while 70% (7/10) of the population that had syphilis had T. vaginalis infection. Both diseases (HIV and Syphilis) had a very strong association with T. vaginalis infection among the population (both p-values= 0.000). Candidiasis on the other hand had no significant association with T. vaginalis infection (p=1.000). Based on the clinical diagnosis, abdominal pain and burning sensation gave strong associations with T. vaginalis infection (p values were 0.001 and 0.005 respectively). However, the reverse was the case for vaginal itching and discharge (both p-values were 1.000). Conclusion: A greater percentage of T. vaginalis positive women came to the laboratory because they had related uncomfortable symptoms. This is problematic since some women in this area are unaware of the importance of having regular gynecological examinations unless symptoms appear. Hence, general surveillance for sexually transmitted diseases, an effective way to prevent T. vaginalis infection, is needed.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Literature Review With a Focus on Diagnosis, Pathophysiology, and Management.

In females with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), the most prevalent endocrine conditionis chronic anovulation and hyperandrogenism. This illness influences females from conception to death, posing several risks to the health of a female, thus reducing the quality of life. It also increases the rates of mortality and morbidity. The first years of puberty are when PCOS symptoms first show. Menstrual irregularities, anovulation,and acne are features of both PCOS and typical puberty in females. There are many various phenotypes that fall under the same illness, so it is necessary to examine each one independently because they may need different treatments and result in different outcomes. Depending on the diagnostic criteria, approximately 6%-20% of females in the reproductive age group are believed to be affected by PCOS.As long as PCOS is still a syndrome, no single diagnostic indicator, such as hyperandrogenism or polycystic ovary (PCO), can be used to make a clinical diagnosis. The management of females with PCOS depends on the symptoms. These could include menstruation problems, androgen-related symptoms, or infertility caused by ovulatory disruption. In females with PCOS, anovulation is linked to low follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and a halt in antral follicle growth during the last stages of maturation. The condition may be treated surgically with laparoscopic ovarian drilling or medically with medications such as aromatase inhibitors, metformin, glucocorticoids, clomiphenecitrate (CC), tamoxifen, or gonadotropins. Patients will experience different androgenic symptoms, such as hirsutism, acne, and/or baldness. Patients who appear with these troubling symptoms need to receive appropriate care. The review emphasizes the role it plays in the management of various conditions.

Sexual dysfunction and its associated factors among reproductive-age women at Gurage Zone, Southern Ethiopia, 2023

IntroductionFemale sexual dysfunction is commonly neglected, under-investigated, and under-treated in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence and its associated factors of female sexual dysfunction among reproductive-aged women at Gurage zone hospitals, in southern Ethiopia.MethodsAn institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 424 reproductive-age group women. A systematic random sampling method was employed and structured questionnaires were used to collect the data through a face-to-face interview. Data were entered into EpiData version 4.6 and analyzed by SPSS version 25.0. Descriptive statistics, and bivariable, and multivariable logistic regression were conducted. Statistical significance was declared at a p-value of < 0.05.ResultFour hundred two participants completed the interview with a response rate of 94.8%. Arousal dysfunction 91.0% and pain during sexual intercourse 39.3% were the most and the least prevalent domains of female sexual dysfunction respectively. Overall 32.1% of the respondents had female sexual dysfunction. Body mass index (AOR = 3.6; 95% CI: 1.2, 10.8), history of pelvic surgery (AOR = 3.5; 95% CI: 1.3, 9.2), marriage satisfaction (AOR = 3.9; 95% CI: 1.4, 1o.6), a satisfaction of spouses’ sex ability (AOR = 3.1; 95% CI: 1.2, 8.5), breastfeeding (AOR = 3.3; 95% CI: 1.6, 7.0), and mode of delivery [vaginal delivery with tear and episiotomy (AOR = 3.7; 95% CI: 1.6, 8.8), instrument assisted vaginal delivery (AOR = 7.0; 95% CI: 1.2, 39.8)], were statistically associated with female sexual dysfunction. All-encompassing professional counseling addressing psychological and interpersonal acts and weight management interventions are needed for couples to maintain sexual functioning.

Tobacco use and outcomes of pregnancy: A community-based cross-sectional study among the women in the reproductive age group in the rural area of Belgaum District, Karnataka, South India

Exposure to tobacco smoke affects all stages of human reproduction. Smoking is not rare among Indian women, but research over the past decade has shown that Indian women’s use of smokeless tobacco products is substantial and increasing, with negative consequences for both oral morbidity and perinatal health, including premature delivery, low birth weight, and birth length. This study was done to know the prevalence of tobacco consumption among rural women in the reproductive age group and its association with the outcomes of pregnancy A community-based cross-sectional study, was conducted from January 2011 to December 2011 among 1200 rural women aged between 15 years to 49 years residing in Primary Health Centre (PHC) Vantmuri area, Belgaum, Karnataka, India. Statistical analysis was done using rates, ratios, and chi-square tests. The prevalence of tobacco consumption was 9.7%. In this study, we found that except for the first pregnancy outcomes, and all the subsequent outcomes of the pregnancies, the differences are statistically significant indicating an association between tobacco consumption and the outcome of pregnancy. Also, a significant association was found between tobacco consumption and low birth weight. Women under the reproductive age group constitute an important cohort of the population. A significant association was found between tobacco consumption and the outcomes of pregnancy. It has become the need of the hour to provide enough evidence on the correlates of tobacco use in the community and to put increasing effort against the expansion of tobacco companies in developing countries, which are often aimed at women.

Predictors of intimate partner violence among women of reproductive age group from Rwanda

Background Intimate partner violence (IPV) against women is an important global health and human rights concern, with significant prevalence in Rwanda. This study aimed to identify predictors of IPV among women of reproductive age in Rwanda, providing essential insights for targeted interventions. Methods Data from the Rwanda Demographic Health and Survey 2019-20, a nationally representative survey, were analyzed. The study included 14,634 women aged 15-49. Descriptive statistics, chi-square analysis to check the experiences of IPV by background characteristics of the women and logistic regression were used to explore associations between background characteristics and IPV. Results The study revealed that women's educational status, wealth index, witnessing parental violence, husband or partner's drinking habit, and fear of husbands or partners were significantly associated with IPV. Women with higher education and those from wealthier households were less likely to experience IPV. In contrast, women whose partners consumed alcohol and those who feared their partners faced higher risks of IPV. Conclusion This study highlights the importance of addressing social determinants such as education, economic status, and alcohol consumption patterns in efforts to reduce IPV in Rwanda. The findings show up the urgency of comprehensive interventions and policies aimed at promoting gender equality and preventing intimate partner violence.

A Study to assess the Effectiveness of Structural Teaching Plan on the Knowledge Regarding Cervical Cancer among Reproductive Age Group Girls at Udaipur

A Study to assess the Effectiveness of Structural Teaching Plan on the Knowledge Regarding Cervical Cancer among Reproductive Age Group Girls at Udaipur

THU473 Acute Hypercalcemia In The Setting Of Acute Fatty Liver Of Pregnancy, A Case Report

Abstract Disclosure: M. Ahmad: None. M. Mack: None. A. Arif: None. L.A. Tejada: None. U. Siddiqui: None. Introduction: Hypercalcemia in pregnancy is rare and often goes unrecognized due to the overlapping symptoms of hypercalcemia and pregnancy. The most common cause of hypercalcemia in pregnant patients is primary hyperparathyroidism, with malignancy, milk alkali syndrome and familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia being less common. Additionally, endogenous PTHrP production by breast and placental tissue have also been described as rare causes of hypercalcemia in pregnancy. We describe an interesting case of severe hypercalcemia in a pregnant woman presenting with acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP) which rapidly corrected after delivery. Case description: The patient was a 32-year-old female with a past medical history of hypothyroidism and type 2 diabetes mellitus who presented to the emergency department at 32 weeks gestation due to four days of nausea, vomiting and epigastric pain. The patient’s vital signs were as follows: blood pressure: elevated to 133/79 mmHg, heart rate: 75 beats per minute, temperature: 36.7 C, and respiratory rate: 12 breaths per minute. On physical exam, the patient had diffuse abdominal tenderness with no vaginal bleeding. The patient’s blood work was significant for: bicarbonate: 17 mmol/L, creatinine: 1.26 mg/dL (baseline 0.7 mg/dL), corrected calcium of 15.1 mg/dL, ALP: 438 IU/L, AST: 653 IU/L, ALT: 666IU/L, total bilirubin: 2.3 mg/dL, INR 1.3, and ammonia: 43 mcmol/L. She was taken to the operating room for emergent cesarian delivery for concerns of AFLP. Further workup of the patient’s hypercalcemia, revealed a low normal PTH level of 11 pg/dL (normal 11-65 mg/dL), PTHrP level of &amp;lt;5 mg/dL, TSH of 1.37 uIU/ml, 25-OH vitamin D 55 ng/ml, and 1,25-OH vitamin D: 20 pg/ml. After delivery, the patient had alleviation of her symptoms and was kept on dextrose 5% with lactated ringers at 100 cc/h for a total of two days and had complete resolution of her hypercalcemia (corrected calcium of 10.2 mg/dL on discharge). The patient follows with endocrinology as an outpatient and since has had normal calcium levels. Discussion: Hypercalcemia in pregnancy is rare, only affecting 0.03% of women in the reproductive age group, with primary hyperparathyroidism being the most common cause. Hypercalcemia in pregnancy can often be missed due to the hemodilution of serum calcium in pregnancy and also the nonspecific symptoms present in pregnant patients. Our case describes a patient presentation of severe hypercalcemia with AFLP, who had rapid correction of her calcium levels after delivery. The exact mechanism of her severe hypercalcemia developed remains unclear, however, given its rapid resolution with delivery of the placenta potential etiologies include the AFLP itself or possibly the placenta contributing to hypercalcemia. Through this case report, we hope to highlight a possible association between AFLP and hypercalcemia. Presentation: Thursday, June 15, 2023

Prevalence of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, Its Associated Conditions And Complications: an Experience from a Low Socio-Economic Population of Sikandrabad, Karachi, Pakistan

OBJECTIVES To study the prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome, its associated conditions and complications in the low socio-economic population of Sikandrabad, Karachi. METHODOLOGY This cross-sectional study was conducted in a primary health care centre of Ziauddin University, Sikandrabad-Karachi, Pakistan, from January-June 2021. The ethical committee of the university approved this study. All female patients with gynaecological complaints having an age between 18 to 49 years were included. Females with a history of unilateral oophorectomy, uterine abnormality and abnormal karyotype or known malignancies were excluded from the study. A sample size of 118 was calculated using open-epi software. A performed questionnaire was used to collect data from females with gynaecological complaints. PCOS was diagnosed using Rotterdam criteria. Routine examination tests were done at the Primary Health Care Clinic (PHCC) of Ziauddin Hospital, and obesity was labelled through BMI calculation. RESULTSOf 118 females in the reproductive age group screened, 55.93% reported PCOS as a major gynaecological problem, followed by endometriosis at 16.94%, uterine fibroid at 14.46% and urinary tract infections at 9.32% respectively. Patients had infertility as a major complaint, with 54.54% cases followed by menstrual abnormalities at 21.21%, obesity at 16.66% and others at 7.57%. Most patients (38%) were obese, and 34% were overweight. CONCLUSION PCOS is a prevalent complicated endocrine disorder in women in the reproductive age group, and it presents with varying gynaecological complications like infertility, menstrual disturbances, hirsutism, and acne. Obesity, hormonal imbalance and poor dietary intake affect the disease outcomes further. More multi-centred studies are needed to know the exact prevalence and causal relations.

Predictors of Hypertension among Indian Women of Reproductive Age Group: An Analysis from NFHS -5 Data

Introduction: Hypertension among women not only augments the risk of cardiovascular diseases but also leads to antenatal and intra-natal complications. Materials and Methods: A subset of data collected during National Family Health Survey-5, comprising of 7,24,115 women, 15–49 years of age was analysed to identify key predictors of hypertension, using Probit Regression Model (PRM) which was run separately for rural and urban women. Results: Overall prevalence of hypertension among women of reproductive age group was 11% (10.4% and 12% in rural and urban areas respectively). 5% and 13.41% of women were obese and 1.2% and 2.6% were diabetic in rural and urban areas respectively. Obese, uneducated, rich women and those on medications showed higher prevalence, while women consuming milk, eggs, chicken, fruits, and vegetables daily showed lower prevalence. On using PRM, significant predictors of hypertension were increasing age, rural residence, pregnancy, increasing weight, diabetes, illiteracy, access to medical insurance, and indulgence in alcohol and smoking. Conclusion: Findings from the study contribute to the body of evidence favouring multifactorial causation. Hypertension awareness should be promoted especially among rural residents, older women, with emphasis on intake of balanced diet with less consumption of sodium and increased intake of fruits and vegetables.

A Rare Cause of Acute Breathlessness in a Nulliparous Female

Dyspnea in a woman of reproductive age group is a common condition encountered in clinical practice. Neoplasms of the female genital tract may also present with dyspnea creating diagnostic dilemma. A detailed history and thorough evaluation helps to clinch the diagnosis in such cases. We report the case of a reproductive-aged nulliparous woman who presented with dyspnea having multiple pulmonary solid nodules diagnosed with invasive mole by histopathology.

Assessment of Symptoms and Risk Factors as a Screening Tool of Bacterial Vaginosis Among Reproductive Age-Group Females in West Bengal, India.

Background Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a ubiquitous vaginal discomfort and has overlapping symptoms with other reproductive tract infections. The World Health Organization suggested a symptomatic approach for diagnosing BV with insufficient laboratory setup. However, due to symptom overlap, BV is often misled and ends up with injudicious drug application. Objective The study aims to identify the most relevant symptoms and behavioral risk factors associated with BV in tertiary healthcare settings in West Bengal, India. It also seeks to develop a scoring system based on clinical symptoms to screen for BV, especially when laboratory facilities are limited. Methodology The study is a retrospective case-control study involving 95 women of reproductive age. It employs both univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression models to identify risk factors and symptoms associated with BV. The study also compares these clinical symptoms with laboratory tests (Amsel's test) and attempts to create a scoring system for BV diagnosis. Key Findings Good menstrual hygiene and condom use were identified as key behavioral practices reducing the risk of BV. Four clinical symptoms, like malodor (P = 0.007), lower abdominal pain (P = 0.015), abnormal vaginal discharge (P = 0.071), and painful intercourse (P = 0.08), were identified as notable predictors. Based on these four symptoms, the scoring system showed a sensitivity of 88.2%, a specificity of 67.25%, and an overall accuracy of 74.7%. An additional diagnosis of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) revealed that the odds of malodor (P= 0.006) and burning sensation (P= 0.011) increased significantly during co-infection.

A-Quasi Experimental Study to Assess the Effectiveness of Video Assisted Teaching Programme on Knowledge regarding MTP among the Reproductive age group women (18-45years) in a selected area of District Chamba Himachal Pradesh

Background: -MTP is also called the medical termination of pregnancy. MTP is the safe legal procedure for abortion performed by the qualified registered medical practitioner in a approved hospital. The aim of the study was to improve the knowledge of the reproductive age group women (18-45years) regarding the Medical Termination of pregnancy (MTP). A Quantitative research was used to assess the effectiveness of video assisted teaching programme related to knowledge regarding the Medical Termination of pregnancy (MTP) among reproductive age group women (18-45years). The non- probability purposive sampling technique was used to select 60 women of reproductive age group (18-45years) in selected area of district Chamba, Himachal Pradesh. A semi structured knowledge questionnaire was used to assess the level of knowledge. Analysis of collected data was done according to the objectives of the study and data analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study showed that out of60 women. 11.6% was 18-24years, 18.33% was 25-31years, 40% was 32-38years, 30% was 39-45years. According to the findings, the pre-test level of knowledge score of reproductive age group (18-45years) women 0% women had good knowledge, 31.6% women had average knowledge, 61.3% women had poor knowledge and the post-test level of knowledge score of reproductive age group (18-45years) women 83.3% women had good knowledge, 16.6% women had average knowledge and 0% women had poor knowledge score. It was concluded that video assisted teaching programme was an effective strategy in improving knowledge of reproductive age group women (18-45years) regarding the MTP (Medical termination of Pregnancy)

A study to assess the effectiveness of structured teaching program on knowledge of breast self-examination and practices regarding preventive aspects of breast cancer among reproductive age group of selected rural areas of Nagpur region

A study to assess the effectiveness of structured teaching program on knowledge of breast self-examination and practices regarding preventive aspects of breast cancer among reproductive age group of selected rural areas of Nagpur region

Improving dietary diversity among women of reproductive age group (15-49 years) through community-based activities across four districts of India

Background: Globally, more than two billion people have micronutrient deficiencies (MiNDs), with approximately half of them residing in India. Nutri-gardens offer the opportunity to diversify a family's diet. The objective of the present study is to assess the effectiveness of growing nutri-gardens in improving the dietary diversity of women and girls compared to no nutri-gardens. Methods: It was a post-test-only comparison with a control group. The intervention and control groups were similar in all aspects except that the intervention group received seeds for growing a nutri-garden. A random sample of 100 adolescent girls (15-19 years) and women per district in the intervention and control groups was drawn from four districts. A campaign was launched to spread awareness of nutri-gardens, a balanced diet, and food groups. The data were collected using a pre-designed semi-structured questionnaire that included a standardized diet quality questionnaire. Results: In total, there were 804 women and adolescent girls. Out of 804, 457 grew (the intervention group) and 347 did not grow nutri-garden (the control group). Women and girls who grew nutri-gardens had 0.38 times higher odds of having higher dietary diversity (≥5) than women and girls who did not. Similarly, women and girls who are educated have higher odds of having a higher dietary diversity compared to illiterates. Conclusions: The study concludes that establishing nutri-garden along with nutrition education improved dietary diversity among girls and women in the intervention areas. Nutri-garden is a low-cost sustainable approach to providing fruits and vegetables daily and meeting their daily requirements.

Vitamin D and Calcium Levels among Women of Reproductive Age Group from Northern India

Background: Vitamin D deficiency has been related to poor bone health, increased risk of PIH, obstructed labour, vaginosis and LBW baby among women of reproductive age. Aims &amp;Objectives: To evaluate the serum calcium and vitamin D levels of reproductive age group women and their relation with sociodemographic parameters. Material &amp;Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among non-pregnant and non-lactating women aged 15-49 years, attending the OPD for any musculoskeletal complaints. The study participants were subjected to a pretested questionnaire for capturing information regarding their sociodemographic parameters. Non fasting blood samples were obtained for biochemical analysis of serum vitamin D and calcium. Results: The mean serum vitamin D and calcium levels were 20.94±10.61 ng/ml and 4.82±0.87 mg/dl respectively. The median serum vitamin D levels were 18.1 ng/ml with IQR of 12.43-28.00 ng/ml. The median serum vitamin D levels were significantly less among women residing in rural area and those who were unmarried/separated. Vitamin D level were highest in middle and lowest in upper socioeconomic status (p=0.007). Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency is more pronounced among women from rural background and those who were unmarried/separated. These women are susceptible to development of osteoporosis and pregnancy related complications in later age.

Prevalence and predictors of iron deficiency anaemia in adolescent girls in India

Background: In India, iron deficiency anaemia is highly prevalent, particularly among women of reproductive age group. Following early childhood, during adolescence, the risk of iron deficiency and anaemia reappears for both boys and girls, but remains more susceptible to girls because of menstrual loss. The aim of this study was to find the prevalence and predictors of iron deficiency anaemia in adolescent girls in India. Methods: This study was a descriptive form of review of literature on data from comprehensive national nutrition survey (CNNS 2016-2018). CNNS was conducted to collect data on the nutritional status of Indian children from 0-19 years of age. The data collection period was from 26 February 2016 to 24 October 2018 and data was collected using individual and household questionnaires. Results: In the study, prevalence of various levels of anaemia (mild, moderate and severe) was higher in adolescent girls as compared to adolescent boys. Adolescent girls had 31.3% iron deficiency whereas adolescent boys had 11.5% iron deficiency. Anaemia prevalence was also higher in the age group 15-19 years as compared to 10-14 years. Conclusions: It was concluded that iron deficiency anaemia was more prevalent in adolescent girls than boys. Inadequate intake of iron rich foods and vitamin C, less knowledge about anaemia, low socio economic conditions along with poor hygiene and sanitation practices are the major factors that contribute to iron deficiency anaemia.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION OF TRICHOMONAS VAGINITIS IN TERTIARY CARE CENTRE IN KATHMANDU

Background: Cervical-vaginal infections are common problems in women of reproductive age groups. Trichomonas vaginalis is one of the major organisms causing vaginitis. Trichomonas vaginalis is an anerobic, flagellated protozoan. The main objective of this study was to study the clinical findings of women with Trichomonas vaginitis.&#x0D; Methods: This was a hospital based descriptive study carried out in the Department of Pathology and Gynaecology of Nepal Medical College Teaching Hospital in one year (January- December 2020). A total of 163 Pap smear examination were included in study. Specimen were stained using conventional Papanicolaou method. After staining, slides were examined under the light microscopy. The cytological diagnosis was correlated with the clinical findings. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS software version 16. Mean, Standard deviation, frequencies and percentages were calculated.&#x0D; Results: A total of 163 cases were evaluated. The mean age of women who underwent Pap smear examination was 37.5 10.5 years. Out of 163 cases, there were 42 cases of Trichomonas vaginitis. The prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis was 25.8%. The common age group was 20 to 40 years. Most of the women were symptomatic (64.3%) while rest were asymptomatic (35.7%). Per vaginal discharge (35.7%) was the most common complain followed by vulval itching (16.7%).&#x0D; Conclusions: Trichomonas vaginalis are commonly found in reproductive age group presented with clinical manifestations or may be asymptomatic at all too. Vaginal discharge is the commonest presentation.

Frequency of Hypovitaminosis D in Obese Adolescent with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common female endocrine disorders affecting the reproductive age group and is thought to be one of the leading cause of female infertility. Many patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) also have features of the metabolic syndrome, including insulin resistance, obesity, and dyslipidemia. Vitamin D affects insulin and glucose metabolism, and a low vitamin D status maybe a risk factor for PCOS. Aim: To determine vitamin D status among the obese adolescent with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and to compare the vitamin D level among obese and nonobese adolescent with PCOS. Methods: This cross sectional study was done at the out-patient department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) during November 2017 to October 2018 but the patients enrollment was started after 16 July 2018. The study comprises of 80 adolescent girls diagnosed as PCOS according to Rotterdam criteria, in the age range of 9 to 18 years, out of which 50 obese adolescent girls was considered as group I and 30 non obese adolescent girls was considered as group II. The biochemical parameters measured in the study includes fasting blood sugar, fasting insulin level and serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D level. Serum 25 (OH) D level less than 20 ng/ml was classified as vitamin D deficiency. Results: In this study it was observed that maximum patients were vitamin D deficient in both groups. In group I, 76% and in group II, 60% were vitamin D deficient. Again in group I, 14% and 33.3% in group II were vitamin D insufficient. Only 10% in group I and 6.7% in group II were found to have sufficient level of vitamin D. The mean Vitamin D was found 18.25±5.51 ng/ml in group I and 19.66±5.21 ng/ml in group II. The mean difference of vitamin D level between two groups was statistically not significant. There is a negative significant correlation between vitamin D and BMI which indicates level of vitamin D decreases with increase of BMI of the participants. Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency was predominant in both groups. Though the difference of vitamin D level was not significant between two groups but the mean level of vitamin D is lower in group I than in group II. There is a negative significant correlation between vitamin D and BMI which indicates that higher BMI levels were associated with lower vitamin D levels.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Mothers in Reproductive Age Group About Childhood Immunization in Basra, Iraq

Background: Childhood immunization preserves children from a variety of dangerous or potentially fatal diseases. World health organization (WHO) study has shown that 2.5 million deaths occurred yearly due to vaccine-preventable diseases, mainly in Asia and Africa among children under 5 years old. Vaccines nowadays protect against many diseases such as whooping cough, measles, and polio, which were the main causes of death for many children before them despite the same germs. In order to protect children from dangerous diseases as well as keep the community from outside diseases by decreasing the spread of diseases, immunization is a simple and effective way to do so. Aims: To assess the mother's knowledge, attitude, and practice concerning childhood vaccination. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study done in three PHCCs (primary health care centers) from the first sector in the center of Basrah city, for the period from 24th of April to 1st of September 2019 on 414 mothers who visit the PHCCs for vaccination of their children and having at least one child aged less than five years. The data were collected by the researcher by using face to face interview method. Result: The results showed that (52.2%) of participants aged between 20 to less than 30, most of them were housewives and more than half of participants have 2-4 children. The majority of the mothers had good knowledge about childhood immunization apart from knowing of immunization schedule, more than half of the participants (60.4%) received their knowledge about vaccines from doctors and nursing staff in PHCCs and (77.3%) believed that the BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guerin), hepatitis B or polio vaccines were the vaccines which should be given during the first week after delivery, nearly all of them (99.2%) agreed that the vaccines prevent diseases. Regarding the attitude and practice of the mothers (99.8%) recommend vaccines to every child, all of the mothers thought that compliance with the immunization schedule is important, and (94.2%) encourage mothers to vaccinate their children from campaigns. Nearly all participants fully immunized their children. Conclusion: Mothers had poor knowledge about immunization schedules. Nearly all of the mothers (99.8%) recommend the vaccine to every child. All of the participants thought that adherence to and completion of the immunization schedule are important. The majority of participants encourage vaccination campaigns. Nearly all of the mothers vaccinate their children completely. Recommendations: Explain to the mothers the importance of vaccines for children under five years and their role in the protection of children from serious diseases. Learn the mothers about the vaccines which is used in the immunization schedule.

Effect of Turmeric Herbal on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder that is increasingly affecting women in the reproductive age group. Women commonly experience menstrual irregularities, hirsutism, weight gain, and acne, as well as the development of a complex endocrine disorder that presents with oligomenorrhea, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries. Herbal medicine is a complex intervention with the potential for synergistic and antagonistic interactions between compounds. These drugs are essential for the treatment of PCOS and have fewer side effects compared to allopathic drugs. One of the herbal medicines to treat PCOS is turmeric or curcumin, curcumin has various biological activities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-tumor, cardioprotective and neuroprotective effects involving various mechanisms. Curcumin can stimulate insulin-mediated glucose uptake via the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinsase (PI3K)/Akt pathway, which, in turn, upregulates glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) in adipocytes and skeletal muscle, leading to increased glucose levels. Curcumin supplementation improves glycemic control and lipid metabolism, and reduces oxygen radical species in PCOS patients. Curcumin is a diarylheptanoid derived from the rhizome of the Curcuma longa plant, which functions as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant which is very important in the treatment of PCOS. In addition, nearly half of patients with PCOS develop metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance, and are associated with a much higher risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus.