Sociodemographic Profile Research Articles

Comparison of the sexual behaviors and syndromic diagnosis between rural and urban cases in east-central India: A retrospective hospital-based study

Objectives: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a significant public health challenge in India. Limited healthcare access, socioeconomic inequalities, and gender-based vulnerabilities contribute to the disproportionate burden in rural and urban areas. The aim of this study was to compare the sociodemographic profile, sexual behavior, and the syndromic diagnosis of STIs between rural and urban cases attending an STI clinic. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted at an STI clinic in east-central region of India. All patients, irrespective of age and sex, who visited the clinic from July 2022 to November 2023, were included in the study. Demographic, clinical, and behavioral data were compared between urban and rural cases using appropriate statistical methods. Results: Out of 925 patients, rural and urban cases were 70.8% and 29.2%, respectively. Rural cases: 92.2% females, 7.8% male; urban cases: 81.1% females, 18.9% males. The majority were aged 20 -40 years. There were more cases aged below 20 years from urban areas (6.3% vs. 2.7%; P < 0.01). Illiterate cases were more from rural area (P < 0.01); and those educated >10th grade from urban area (P < 0.01). The predominant occupation was homemakers and incomes ranged between Rs 5000 and 10000. In both rural and urban areas, lower abdomen pain was the most common symptom, followed by vaginal discharge. Genital herpes (P < 0.01) and syphilitic genital ulcers to syphilis (P = 0.01) were more common in urban areas compared to rural. Retroviral infection was reported to be similar from both areas.: Mean age of sexual debut was 19.5 years in rural and 20.2 year in cases from urban areas (P < 0.01). Time since last sexual encounter (21.2 vs. 20.3 days, P = 0.01), and cases with multiple partners (4.1% vs. 8.8%; P < 0.01) were different in cases from rural and urban cases. The difference in drug abuse and contact with sex worker were not significantly different between the groups. Limitations: Retrospective study design, hospital-based study setting and lack of microbiological confirmation were the limitations of this study. Conclusion: There were disparities in the sociodemographic profile, STI patterns, and sexual behavior between rural and urban cases of the east-central zone of India.

Food Hygiene and Sanitary Condition Awareness among Street Food Vendors

The objective of this study was to investigate the level of awareness among the street food vendors in Barangay Saber, Marawi City specifically regarding food hygiene and sanitary condition. The researcher utilized a descriptive-survey research design using survey-questionnaires as the primary tool to figure out the problems in sustaining food safeties for the consumers. These street food vendors play an important role in the economy by making goods more accessible and affordable, as well as providing livelihood opportunities for people with few job options in the city. The survey-questionnaires were contained of two parts, part one, socio-demographic profile of respondents and part two were the problems on food street vendors’ food hygiene and sanitation awareness in terms of food serving and surrounding sanitation. A total of forty-one (41) street food vendors participated in the study. Moreover, the study employed frequency, percentage distribution and weighed mean with the aid of SPSS Software as statistical tools used to understand the data and interpret the results properly. The results revealed that all the identified indicators that may influenced the maintaining of proper hygiene and sanitary of food establishments of the street vendors were positively perceived by the respondents. The street food vendors were properly aware on the important of food hygiene which is part of food safety and ensuring the health and well-being of the consumers. The average weighted mean is 2.70 or “often” as descriptively define. Results implied that these street food vendors were observing properly the importance of cleanliness to prevent their customers from illnesses due to negligence on proper handling of foods and maintaining the positive environment.

Study Of Characteristics Of Victims And Alleged Accused In Cases Of Deaths Due To Homicide

Aims and Objectives: Homicide is a cruel act of mankind. It reveals one of the darkest sides of the society. Homicidal crimes represent a reasonable proxy for all different kinds of violent crimes in general. In this modern world violent crimes are being executed professionally. Such criminal activities follow peculiar socio-demographic profiles of victims and the accused involved. The study aimed to find out the different characteristics of victims and perpetrators i.e. alleged accused in homicidal deaths Materials and Methods: The present prospective study was carried out on 179 homicidal deaths at the Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology of Indira Gandhi Government Medical College, Nagpur over a period from January 2013 to October 2014. The Institutional and Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik ethical committee approved the study protocol. Observation and Results: Male victims were most commonly attacked by acquaintances (argument, quarrel, momentary rage) in 33 (18.44%) cases followed by friends in 28 (15.64%) whereas females by their husbands or In-laws in 13 (7.26%) cases. No victim-assailant relationship could be traced in 73 (40.78%) cases. 64 (35.75%) victims were attacked by a single assailant of which 47 (26.26%) were males and 17 (9.50%) were females followed by by two assailants at a time in 21 (11.73%) cases 16 (8.94%) males and 5 (2.79%) females. Incidences where more than five assailants were involved included only male victims in 7 (3.91%) cases. The numbers of assailants were unknown in 68 (37.99%) cases. Maximum homicidal attacks occurred at or near the victim's house in 54 (30.17%) cases out of which 32 (17.88%) were males and 22 (12.29%) females followed by incidences occurring on the road or streetside in 48 (26.82%) cases. Male victims were commonly attacked on the road or streetside in 45 (25.14%) followed by 32 (17.88%) cases at victims' houses. In contrast, females were commonly attacked at the victim’s house in 22 (12.29%) cases followed by roadside attacks in 03 (1.68%) cases. The main motive behind the homicidal attack was quarrels in 47 (26.26%) cases followed by enmity or revenge in 46 (25.70%). Males were common victims due to quarrel 29 (16.20%) and enmity 24 (13.40%). Cases of sexual assault or illicit sexual relationships were the principal motive behind homicidal attacks on females. Sharp and pointed weapons were most commonly used in executing homicidal attacks in 56 (31.28%) cases followed by hard and blunt in 51(28.49%) cases. Combined blunt and sharp weapons were used in 11(5.03%) cases. Sharp weapons commonly used were knife 37 (20.67%), gupti 18 (10.05%) and axe in 9 (5.02%) cases. Hard and blunt weapons commonly used in this area were stones 29 (16.20%), bricks 15 (8.37%), bamboo sticks 12 (6.70%), iron rods 11 (6.14%), etc. Maximum victims 125 (69.83%) died at the place of homicidal assault or on their way to the hospital. Out of 54 hospitalized victims, 35 (19.55%) died within the first 24 hours. Blunt weapon injuries were common in spot-dead victims whereas sharp weapons were in admitted cases who died later during treatment. In all these cases, stomach contents, blood, and other routine viscera were sent to the forensic science laboratory for chemical analysis. Conclusions: Males outnumbered females in all aspects of Homicidal deaths. Overall specific pattern was observed which could help police investigating authorities in tracing out characteristics of victims and assailants in homicidal deaths reported shortly.

Factors influencing adherence to dietary recommendations for type 2 diabetes mellitus and their impact on disease control: A cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT Background and Objectives: Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease, with current estimates by the IDF (International Diabetes Federation) suggesting nationwide prevalence rates of 9.2% among Indians aged 20–79 years. An appropriate dietary pattern is widely accepted as a cornerstone of treatment among diabetes patients. However, motivating patients to achieve dietary self-care behaviors is challenging and requires ongoing efforts between patients and multidisciplinary teams. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to assess the level of adherence to the diet, to find out the association between dietary practices and disease profile, and to explore the reasons behind not adhering to the recommended diet. Methodology: The present cross-sectional study was conducted among type 2 diabetic patients visiting the NCD clinic in a tertiary care hospital and three CHCs in Jamnagar district. The final sample size was 450. A structured interview schedule containing sociodemographic profiles, details regarding diabetes mellitus, and dietary details was developed. Dietary assessment was done using the UKDDQ. Result: In a study of 450 participants, 44.88% were aged 61–70 years. The majority were Hindu (88%), with 69.3% residing in urban areas and 30.7% in rural areas. Using the UKDDQ dietary score, 71.55% had a healthy diet. This score was negatively correlated with BMI, HbA1c, and RBS. Factors such as family type, area of residence, family history of diabetes mellitus, duration of diabetes, mode of treatment, HbA1c, and complications of diabetes were significantly associated with the dietary score. Conclusion: The study found that poor dietary scores were linked to worse disease outcomes in type 2 diabetes. Identifying and addressing barriers to dietary adherence is crucial for improving outcomes and modifying recommendations accordingly.

Prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its risk factors among the government bank’s employees of district Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh: A cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) involves having at least 3 out of 5 health conditions that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. These conditions include increased blood pressure (BP), high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels. Each of these conditions is treatable with lifestyle changes and/or medication. Objective: 1). To find out the prevalence of MetS and various risk factors associated with it through MetS’s screening criteria. 2) To find out the health risk status and stress level among bank’s employees in the government sector. Material and Methods: A medical health camp was organised for all bank’s employees to rule out the various health-related disorders. Thus, 64 beneficiaries were participated. A detailed history was taken regarding their socio-demographic profile, risk factors affecting the MetS, and stress levels among each individual through the direct personal interview method. Results: As per MetS’s screening criteria (NCEP-ATP III), the prevalence of MetS was 7.81% among the bank’s employees. The various risk factors affecting the MetS are elevated serum triglyceride level, elevated fasting blood glucose (FBG), raised BP, enlarged WC, etc., The majority of individuals had a high risk of health status 27 (42.1%) and a moderate level of stress, i.e., 38 (59.4%), respectively. Most of the participants were hypertensive 49 (76.6%), diabetic 16 (28.6%), and obese 37 (57.8%). Conclusion: Common concerns of male gender, increasing age and BMI, sedentary lifestyle, stress and positive family history should be considered for early identification and appropriate intervention to fight against the growing MetS epidemic.

Developmental delay and its associated factors among children of 9 months and of 18 months attending primary health facilities in an urban resettlement area of East Delhi

ABSTRACT Background: Early identification of developmental delay in children can help in making early intervention for its management. Routine developmental screening is not being practised in India due to lack of trained field workers, lack of awareness among parents and lack of feasible assessment screening tool. There is lack of studies that focuses on home environment provided to the children as it is associated with developmental delay. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in immunization clinic of two Maternal and Child Welfare (MCW) centres of Nand Nagari, an urban resettlement colony in East Delhi among children of 9 months and 18 months of age. New Delhi Development Status Questionnaire (ND-DSQ) was used for assessment of developmental status. Data on socio-demographic profile, home stimulation of the child and anthropometric measurements including weight, height was collected. Chi-square test was used for univariate analysis and binary logistic regression was used to find out the predictors of developmental delay. Results: The prevalence of DD was found to be 17.7% in children 9 m of age, and 10% in 18 m. On univariate analysis preterm gestation, low-birth weight of the child, lower mother’s education status and presence of complications at birth were significantly associated with developmental delay. The independent predictors of DD were presence of complications at birth, preterm gestation, lower mother’s education status and underweight children. Conclusion: This study reports a higher prevalence of DD. More follow up studies on DD is needed to see the course of achievement of developmental milestones. Screening for developmental milestones can be done during visit for immunization.

Epidemiological profile of gestational Syphilis in Brazil from 2019 to 2023

Introduction: syphilis is still a relevant public health problem, since syphilis affects a large and significant number of pregnant women worldwide, associated with a significant number of fetal and neonatal deaths, in addition to cases of risk of premature death. Objective: to evaluate the prevalence, temporal evolution and geographic distribution of gestational syphilis in Brazil between 2019 and 2023, as well as analyze the sociodemographic profile of affected pregnant women and the clinical and therapeutic aspects of cases of associated congenital syphilis. Methods: the study is ecological and addresses the panorama of gestational syphilis in Brazil, based on the analysis of data reported to the Notifiable Diseases Information System and the Department of HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, Viral Hepatitis, and Sexually Transmitted Infections of the Health Surveillance Secretariat. Results: during the period from 2019 to 2023, the Gestational Syphilis prevalence was 324,683 cases, with 2023 having the lowest rate (11%) and 2022 having the highest rate (26%). Conclusion: public health measures, better screening and campaigns for adherence to treatments are some of the main interventions needed to combat the disease in Brazil.

Motivations, perceptions and impacts of direct-to-consumer genetic testing among users in Brazil.

Numerous studies have focused on direct-to-consumer genetic testing (DTC-GT), but little is known about consumers outside North America and Europe. Therefore, this study assesses the sociodemographic profile, motivations, and impacts of DTC-GT among Brazilian consumers. DTC-GT customers were invited to complete a 30-question online survey anonymously. Descriptive statistics and Chi-Square tests were used to analyze the data, with significant findings analyzed using post-hoc and correspondence analysis. This study comprised 1513 Brazilian DTC-GT consumers with a mean age of 42 years old and mostly female (60.8%). Participants' primary motivation for purchasing the test was to learn about their genetic predispositions to diseases (87.2%) followed by biogeographical ancestry (86.2%). Fewer than 20% of respondents reported consulting a healthcare professional due to the test results (18.4%), and most consumers felt confident in independently understanding the test results (66.9%), which was significantly associated with Health/Biological Sciences professional field (p < 0.001). Additionally, many customers felt glad (63.3%), and few felt worried after receiving their results (13.4%), particularly concerning health outcomes. Lifestyle changes included dietary adjustments (38.7%), regular health check-ups (24.2%) and increased physical activity (16.5%). Overall, 64.0% of respondents reported altering habits following test results. These findings contribute to understanding the motivations and impacts of DTC-GT among Brazilian consumers, indicating positive lifestyle changes and limited negative psychological impacts.

Characterization of formal caregivers of dependent elderly people at home in Paraguay: observational study

Objective: To characterize the sociodemographic and occupational profile of formal caregivers of dependent elderly people at home in the city of Asunción, Paraguay. Methods: Observational, cross-sectional and descriptive study. It was carried out in households in the urban area of Asunción, Paraguay. The participants were 25 formal caregivers of dependent elderly people at home, selected in a non-probabilistic, snowball fashion. Data was collected from June to December 2022 using a semi-structured interview script and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The majority of caregivers are women (96%), aged between 31 and 45 (68%), born in the interior of Paraguay (52%), with a complete basic education, without a training course for caregivers (100%). Almost all of them had been working for more than three years (76%), paid more than one minimum wage (56%), were dissatisfied with their current salary (84%), had no formal work record (92%), had one day off a week (72%) and, in addition to caring for the elderly, performed domestic activities at home (92%). Conclusion: Understanding the sociodemographic and occupational profile of caregivers is essential for devising effective public policies to improve the quality of life of these professionals and, consequently, the care provided to the elderly.

Comprehensive Examination of Sociodemographic and Clinical Profiles of Adolescents Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Comprehensive Examination of Sociodemographic and Clinical Profiles of Adolescents Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Socio-Demographic and Clinical Profile of COVID-19 in Children

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 is a global pandemic. Infection by COVID-19 in children is not so common but gradually the numbers of children affected with COVID-19 are increasing day by day. Covid-19 has spread around Bangladesh and children are also being infected with comparatively fewer symptoms and lower case-fatality rates. To describe the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of hospitalized children with COVID-19. Materials and methods: This cross sectional observational study was conducted among 154 COVID-19 children who were admitted in COVID-19 dedicated Chattagram Maa Shishu O General Hospital, Chattagram from 15 April 2020 to 21 August 2022. Their signs, symptoms, sex, age distribution, laboratory results and familial contact were analyzed. Results: Among 154 children total RT-PCR positive cases were 82 (52%) and suspected cases were 72 (47%). Among positive casesmale-female ratio was 1.78:1. Most of the children (64%) were in school going age (6-18 years).70% children were from urban area and 30% from rural area. Most of the children (78%) came from middle and upper middle socioeconomic group and 22% from lower socioeconomic group. About 74% children were affected from family member.Main symptoms of the children were cough (72%), and fever (62%), fever with cough (56%) and diarrhoea (26%). About 58% of the children had additional symptoms including sore throat, nasal congestion, fatigue, headache, body ache, vomiting, abdominal pain, 32 patient came with shortness of breath. 7 patients had comorbidities. Among those 1 with CKD, 1 CP, 2 TB and 3 patients had asthma. Total 6 patients were died, 2 patients from positive cases and 4 patients from suspected cases. Among those 1 was CP child. About 14% patients showed lymphopenia, 14% showed leucopenia, 38% patient had neutropenia. C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and serum ferritin were high in only 52% and 38% cases respectively. There were 30% patients who had normal Chest X-Ray and 12% had bilateral consolidation and 58% had patchy opacities. Conclusion: The clinical manifestations in children are variable. However, fever and cough have mostly been profiled. Though the severe condition is rarely reported in children compared with adults, life-threatening complications, and death associated with COVID-19 disease have been documented. But it is evident that they may play a role in transmission of disease. Chatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.22 (2); July 2023; Page 14-17

An Observation of Outcome in Association with Spontaneous Onset of Labor and Induced Labour of Primigravida at Term

Introduction: Labour is a usual physiological process considered by progressive rise in frequency, intensity and duration of uterine contractions resulting in effacement and dilatation of the cervix with descent of the fetus over the birth canal. Initiation of labour is defined as iatrogenic stimulation of uterine reductions to cause the delivery of fetus before the onset of spontaneous labour. Aim of the study: To observe the outcome in association with spontaneous onset of labor and induced labour of primigravida at term. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Ashiyan Medical College Hospital, Barua Khilkhet, and Dhaka, Bangladesh during the period from January 2018 to December 2018. Initially, all pregnant mothers at term (410/7 – 416/7 Weeks) were enrolled by purposive sampling. Thereafter, they were scrutinized according to the eligibility criteria. Finally, 80 participants were grouped in each category; namely spontaneous labor group. Thereafter, they were explained regarding the study procedure and informed written consent was charted on the partograph. A structure data sheet was used to obtain socio-demographic profile, obstetric profile, maternal and neonatal outcome profile were recorded using a pre structured, peer reviewed, interview and observation-based data collection sheet. All data were recorded, managed and analyzed using software Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 20.

Measuring general health literacy using the HLS19-Q12 in specialty consultations in Spain

BackgroundGeneral health literacy (general HL) affects both individual and population health on numerous levels, with low general HL leading to increased morbidity, poor health service utilization, and increased healthcare spending. This study calculated health literacy scores of a population attending specialty consultations in the community of Aragon, Spain. It further produced a sociodemographic profile and examined the relationships between patients’ scores and sociodemographic variables.MethodsA sample of 150 patients from specialty consultations completed the internationally- validated HLS19-Q12 to measure adult general HL. A 4-point-Likert scale gathered information regarding 12 items of health literacy. Final scores were divided into four categorical levels: excellent, sufficient, problematic, or inadequate. Independent sample t-test, one-way ANOVA, and a generalized linear model (GLM) analysis were performed to examine key relationships with respect to sociodemographic variables and health literacy scores.ResultsThe survey was completed by 150 subjects aged 18 and over in specialty clinics in Aragon, Spain. 59% of respondents had inadequate or problematic general HL, while 41% had sufficient or excellent general HL. Income level had a significant effect on health literacy scores, F = 2.129, (p < 0.05), as did different work situations, F = 3.762, (p < 0.001). Patients who self-reported as having diabetes had a significantly higher health literacy score, t = 2.356 (p < 0.05) than those reporting other health conditions. According to GLM analysis, education, health status, income, and the number of appointments were the strongest predictors of the heath literacy score.ConclusionsGeneral HL in this patient population was limited, and lower than in some comparable studies. The sociodemographic profile constructed, and associations with health literacy established, provide policy makers, healthcare administrators, and clinicians with information to consider new policies, processes and strategies to improve general HL in this specific population.

Grandparenting: Impact on Physical Activity, Dietary Habits, and Quality of Life.

Background: Informal childcare supply may have a double-edged effect on grandparents' health and quality of life, as different aspects of it may exceed or subceed the capacity of the older persons, in various ways. This study aimed to assess the effect of grandparenting on physical activity, nutrition, and quality of life of older people. Methods: The study involved 152 grandparents ≥65 years old (69.2 ± 4.5 years). Data were collected by a self-reported questionnaire consisting of four sections: (a) sociodemographic profile, (b) physical activity assessment (IPAQ), (c) compliance with the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet score), and (d) quality of life assessment (WHOQOL-BREF). Results: Significant correlations were found concerning the care of grandchildren with physical activity, eating habits, and quality of life of older adults. The most notable results of regression analysis, regarding grandparenting effect, were the number of grandchildren being taken care of, which had a statistically significant negative effect on dietary habits, physical activity and quality of life, and being the only caregivers, which was positively associated with dietary habits, but negatively with the two other outcomes (all p < .01). Conclusion: The results showed that different aspects of informal childcare had statistically significant effects on dietary habits, physical activity, and overall quality of life in older people.

Sociodemographic Scenario of Female Patients with Breast Cancer: Bangladesh Perspective

Background: Breast cancer is the leading malignancy among women worldwide, and in Bangladesh, it presents a significant public health concern. The sociodemographic factors such as age, marital status, contraceptive use, and reproductive history have a profound impact on breast cancer incidence, diagnosis, and outcomes. This study examines these characteristics among Bangladeshi female breast cancer patients to provide insights into the unique epidemiological trends in this region. Objective: To analyze the sociodemographic characteristics of Bangladeshi female breast cancer patients and compare the findings with other global and regional studies. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with 50 female breast cancer patients diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma. The patients were selected from the National Institute of Cancer Research &amp; Hospital in Dhaka, and their sociodemographic data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires. Data on age, marital status, contraceptive use, and reproductive history were analyzed and compared with findings from other studies. Results: Among the 50 patients, the majority (64%) were aged 31-50 years, while 28% were between 51-70 years. Only 8% of the patients were aged 18-30, and there were no patients in the 71-90 age group. The majority of the patients (96%) were married, while only 4% were single. History of contraceptive use was reported by 68% of the patients. The study revealed a pattern of early menarche, high parity, and extended breastfeeding, aligning with other LMICs' trends but differing from patterns seen in high-income countries. Conclusion: The sociodemographic profile of breast cancer patients in Bangladesh mirrors patterns seen in other low- and middle-income countries, with younger women comprising the majority of cases. Factors such as early marriage, contraceptive use, and reproductive history play a significant role in the risk of developing breast cancer. These findings ...........

Depression in patients with chronic otolaryngology symptoms – A vicious cycle

BackgroundDepression is a common comorbidity among individuals with otolaryngologic disorders, particularly those with longstanding conditions. This study aims at analysing the sociodemographic profile of depressive disorders in patients with chronic otolaryngology symptoms or conditions, and the correlation with PHQ-9 score.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted on a hundred patients presenting to the outpatient department with chronic otolaryngology symptoms or conditions. They were requested to fill in the PHQ-9 questionnaire, containing questions based on the fourth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) for major depressive disorder (MDD).ResultsMedian age was 39, male: female ratio was 1.17. Nasal obstruction (29%), ear discharge (25%), and headache (17%) were the common presenting complaints. Mean and median PHQ-9 scores were 5.03 and 4 respectively. Seven patients (7%) had MDD, while eleven (11%) had other depressive disorder; 9% of cases were found to have no significant otolaryngologic problem despite presenting with symptoms, two of which were found to have depressive disorder. Thirty-five (35%) and thirty-six (36%) patients had minimal and mild depressive symptoms respectively, while one (1%) had severe depressive symptoms. Statistical significance was noted for the duration of symptoms (p-value 0.005); high statistical significance was found for occupation and otolaryngology diagnosis (p-value < 0.001 each). PHQ-9 score showed statistical significance in comparison with gender and duration of symptoms (p-value 0.046 and 0.005 respectively). Correlation of severity of depressive disorder revealed statistical significance with gender (p-value 0.049) and high statistical significance with duration of symptoms (p-value < 0.001).ConclusionChronic otolaryngology conditions are associated with significant morbidity, attributable to longstanding disturbing symptoms and prolonged treatment protocols, leading to depression. Nevertheless, depression in chronic otolaryngology disorders may aggravate or overlap the clinical symptoms or may go undetected. Hence it may be worthwhile to evaluate for depressive disorders in chronic patients presenting to otolaryngology.

Understanding the connection and relation between sleep and depression in a tertiary health-care center: Insights from a cross-sectional study

Abstract Background: There is a bidirectional relationship between sleep disturbance and depression, with which a new hypothesis could be generated, that is, sleep disturbance can be a prodromal event rather than a symptom of depression. Many long-term studies have identified insomnia as a risk factor for the onset or recurrence of depression in young, middle-aged, and older people and it can also increase the risk of self-harm and suicide, which can also exacerbate the medical comorbidity conditions and also increase the substance intake. Materials and Methods: Those patients attending the psychiatry outpatient department of tertiary Health-care center for 6 months were considered. Those patients who were diagnosed with depression as per the International Classification of Diseases-11 depression criteria were taken after getting proper informed consent from them. Then, those patients who satisfied the inclusion criteria were taken into the study and evaluated with self-structured pro forma including details regarding the sociodemographic profile, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, and Insomnia Severity Index Scale to assess the severity of depression and sleep disturbance. Results: The prevalence of sleep disturbance in depressive individuals was found to be 78% (140). The significance was established between the severity of depression and the severity of insomnia (P&lt;0.001), along with sleep duration (P&lt;0.001), insomnia type (P=0.002), benzodiazepine usage (P&lt;0.001) and self-harm ideas/attempts (P&lt;0.001). Conclusion: Sleep is considered a major aspect of holistic care, as it may have an impact on the severity, frequency and duration of depression and its remission along with quality of life and mortality rate.

The impact of malignancy on death anxiety and psychological well-being in middle-aged and older patients undergoing abdominal surgery: a quasi-experimental study.

Malignancy is a critical factor affecting death anxiety and psychological well-being. This study examined the impact of malignancy on death anxiety and psychological well-being in middle-aged and older adult patients undergoing abdominal surgery and projected it along with sociodemographic profiles. This study is quasi-experimental in design. It was conducted with patients undergoing abdominal surgery at a university hospital due to suspected malignancy. A total of 93 patients participated in the study: 57 patients diagnosed with malignancy were included in the experimental group, while 36 patients without a malignancy diagnosis were included in the control group. Data were collected using a questionnaire developed by the researchers based on the literature, the 'Turkish Death Anxiety Scale', and the 'Psychological Well-being Scale'. The analyses revealed that the data were normally distributed, and parametric tests were used to analyze differences between demographic variables and groups. Cohen's d and r values were examined to assess the effect size in the tests. The study found a significant difference in death anxiety between the experimental and control groups (P < 0.05), with higher mean scores in the experimental group. Malignancy had a large effect on death anxiety (d = 1.42). Additionally, the control group had significantly higher mean psychological well-being scores compared to the experimental group (P < 0.05). The study found that malignancy significantly affects death anxiety and psychological well-being. Increased death anxiety in patients with malignancy was associated with reduced psychological well-being. Thus, assessing death anxiety and providing targeted nursing care are essential for supporting the psychological well-being of these patients.

Umbrella review of meta-analyses on the risk factors, protective factors, consequences and interventions of cyberbullying victimization.

The increasing prevalence of cyberbullying victimization has become a commonplace issue globally. Although research has explored various predictors and consequences of cyberbullying victimization, most focus on a narrow range of variables or contexts, highlighting the need to comprehensively review and synthesize the wealth of empirical findings. We conducted a systematic review of meta-analyses on cyberbullying victimization, incorporating 56 meta-analyses and 296 effect sizes (sample size range 421-1,136,080, sample size median 53,183; searched via EBSCOhost ERIC, EBSCOhost PsycInfo, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, 13 cyberbullying-related journals, Google Scholar and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses) to address the following critical questions: (1) What are the crucial sociodemographic and psychological profiles of cyberbullying victims? (2) What critical contextual and environmental factors are associated with cyberbullying victimization? (3) What are the key psychological and behavioural consequences of cyberbullying victimization? (4) How effective are existing interventions in mitigating impacts of cyberbullying? Included meta-analyses had to focus on cyberbullying victimization and report at least one predictor or consequence. A quality assessment was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Instrument for Systematic Reviews and Research Syntheses. Findings suggest that females, school-aged populations, traditional bullying victims and frequent internet users were more likely to be cyberbullied. Unregulated school environments and unsupportive parental relationships were also associated with increased cyberbullying victimization. Cyberbullying victimization was consistently associated with negative psychological outcomes, lower school performance and maladaptive coping behaviours. More importantly, the current review found that cyberbullying intervention programmes show promising results. The current review underscores the importance of devoting adequate resources to mitigating cyberbullying victimization.

Prevalence of Alexithymia and Associated Factors Among Dental Students in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Mental health challenges among university students are pervasive, with alexithymia posing a particularly significant yet understudied challenge. This condition significantly affects an individual's ability to cope with stress due to difficulties in recognizing, describing, and processing emotions. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate alexithymia prevalence and its associated factors among dental undergraduate students and interns enrolled at King Saud University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methods: Data were collected through a self-administered online survey that assessed alexithymia symptoms (using the Toronto Alexithymia Scale [TAS-20]), sociodemographic profiles, lifestyle-related factors, and health-related factors. The associations between participant factors and alexithymia were assessed using chi-square and multiple logistic regression analyses. Results: Of the 421 eligible participants, 369 completed the survey (87.6% response rate), revealing a significant prevalence of alexithymia (37.9%). Female gender (AOR = 1.7, p = 0.04), depression (AOR = 5.6, p < 0.0001), chronic diseases (AOR = 3.5, p = 0.003), and childhood abuse (AOR = 2.2, p = 0.047) were independent factors significantly associated with alexithymia. Conclusions: These findings highlight the pressing need for mental health support within dental education. Early interventions targeting alexithymia could mitigate its adverse consequences, promoting better student well-being and academic success.