Epi Info Software Research Articles

Undernutrition and associated factors among prisoners in Bahir Dar Zone Prison Center, Northwest Ethiopia, 2021.

This study aims to assess undernutrition and associated factors among prisoners in Bahir Dar Zone Prison Center, Ethiopia, in 2021. An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among randomly selected 582 prisoners from October 1 to October 30, 2021. An interviewer-administered, semistructured questionnaire was used to collect the required data. The body mass index (BMI) was assessed to determine the nutritional status of prisoners. Data were entered into Epi-Info statistical software version 7 and exported to SPSS version 23 for analysis. Both bi-variable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with undernutrition. In multivariable binary logistic regression analysis, variables with a p-value < 0.05 were considered significant. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to measure the strength of the association. The prevalence of undernutrition was 17.5% (95% CI: 14.3, 21). Imprisonment history (AOR: 4.98, 95% CI: 2.80, 8.86), history of cigarette smoking (AOR: 5.38, 95% CI: 2.86, 10.13), imprisonment duration (AOR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.04, 3.19), diarrheal diseases (AOR: 1.98, 95% CI: 1.15, 3.41), depression (AOR: 3.23, 95% CI: 1.88, 5.57) and poor social support (AOR: 7.09, 95% CI: 3.57, 14.05) were factors significantly increasing the odds of undernutrition. This manuscript is an original research article that was conducted by using primary data. The finding of the study implies that the magnitude of undernutrition among prisoners in the Bahir Dar Prison Center was found to be lower than the general population in Ethiopia. Therefore, this paper recommended behavioral change intervention, promotion of mental support and health education, cessation of cigarette smoking and management of diarrheal disease.

Investigation of Genetic Variants of Alox12 (rs9904779) Gene in Dental Caries

Background: Dental caries is a biofilm-mediated disease driven by dietary sugars that reduce pH and promote cariogenic microorganisms. Caries result from a complex interplay of behaviour, environmental, genetic, and physiological factors, with the immune response and bacterial activity contributing to enamel demineralization and cavity formation. Genetic factors, such as SNPs, also influence caries susceptibility, impacting enamel hardness and inflammatory responses. Aim: This study aims to explore the association between the Alox12 gene variant, rs9904779, and the susceptibility to dental caries. Methods: Patients were recruited following ethical approval and informed consent. Saliva samples were collected and grouped by DMFT index, and genomic DNA was extracted. PCR analysis focused on Alox12 gene polymorphism with the 223bp product and RFLP. Statistical analysis was performed using Epi Info software, calculating genotype-risk associations and a significance threshold of p &lt; 0.05. Chi-square testing assessed genotype and allele distributions across groups. Results: An SNP analysis of Alox12 was conducted to assess the susceptibility of dental caries. In caries patients, CC genotype was most prevalent (42%), while CG was higher in controls (52%). Genotype distribution deviated from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in caries (p &lt; 0.05) but not in controls (p &gt; 0.05). The caries group had a higher prevalence of the C allele, while the CG heterozygote was more frequent in controls (OR = 0.64, p = 0.32). Conclusion: This SNP analysis suggests that the Alox12 gene variant rs9904779 may be a significant predictor for the development of dental caries, highlighting its potential as a genetic marker for susceptibility to the disease.

Profile of congenital heart disease and its mode of presentation in children admitted in a tertiary care hospital: a cross-sectional study

Background: Congenital heart disease (CHD) is contributing more to the infant mortality rate these days. Therefore, we must investigate the profiles of CHD, it's presenting clinical features, and its consequences to assist pediatricians and cardiologists in taking the necessary actions as soon as possible to reduce infant mortality further. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out on 111 infants with CHD who were admitted to the Bankura Sammilani Medical College and Hospital's pediatric medicine department in Bankura, India. The children ranged in age from one month to five years. Following approval by the Institutional Ethics Committee and parental/guardian consent, we used a case record proforma to gather data on enrolled children over ten months. To analyze the data, EpiInfo (version 3.5.1) software was used. This study received approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee. Result: Male children contributed 53.15%, while female children contributed 46.85%. Children between the ages of one and six months made up 55.86% of the total. Among cardiac lesions, acyanotic CHD was more prevalent than cyanotic CHD (81.08% vs. 18.92%). In all cases of CHD, the most prevalent lesion type was ventricular septal defect (VSD) (43.24%). The most prevalent form of cyanotic CHD, however, was the tetralogy of Fallot's (9.9%). Most of the children with atrial septal defects presented in late infancy. Inadequate weight gain (85.59%) and malnutrition (84.68%) were the most prevalent clinical characteristics and complications of CHD. Conclusion: The most common complication of CHD in children under five is malnutrition, a risk factor for infant death. Hence, a community-based case-control study is essential to determine the precise extent of these burdens.

STUDY TO ASSESS SERUM FERRITIN LEVELS, LIPID PROFILE, AND THYROID PROFILE IN HYPOTHYROID PATIENTS

Objective: This study aims to evaluate thyroid hormone levels, lipid profiles, and serum ferritin concentrations in hypothyroid patients, exploring the interplay between iron deficiency, thyroid function, and lipid metabolism. Methods: A descriptive study was conducted at Gandhi Medical College, Secunderabad, from 2019 to 2021, with 50 hypothyroid patients (aged 25–45 years) and 100 healthy controls. Blood samples were collected after 8–10 h of fasting and analyzed for thyroid hormones, ferritin, and lipid profiles. Statistical analysis was performed using EpiInfo software, with p&lt;0.05 considered significant. Results: The study revealed significantly elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone levels (13.4±10.2 mIU/l) and reduced Triiodothyronine (T3) (0.81±0.31 nmol/dL) and Thyroxine (T4) (4.4±0.93 μg/dL) levels in hypothyroid patients compared to controls (p&lt;0.05). The serum ferritin levels were markedly lower in hypothyroid patients (16.9±13.9 ng/mL) than in controls (43.3±19.9 ng/mL), with 68% of cases showing ferritin deficiency. Dyslipidemia was prominent, with higher total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and very LDL levels and reduced high-density lipoprotein in cases compared to controls (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: Hypothyroid patients exhibit significant ferritin deficiency and dyslipidemia, highlighting the interconnectedness of iron status, thyroid function, and lipid metabolism. Addressing iron deficiency in hypothyroid patients may improve thyroid function and overall metabolic health.

Metabolic syndrome and related factors in Cameroonian women under contraceptive use.

Contraceptive is a device or drug that prevents a woman from becoming pregnant. Some types of contraceptive can cause a myriad of secondary effects such as overweight, increase of blood pressure triglycerides, and glucose intolerance. The combination of these secondary effects could, in the long term, develop metabolic syndrome in these women. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and related factors in Cameroonians women on contraceptives. This was a cross-sectional study that included 231 Cameroonians fasting women from 18 to 49 years of age, on contraceptives. Sociodemographic, lifestyle, anthropometric and biochemical characteristics were collected. Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed using the criteria of the National Cholesterol Education Program- Adult Treatment Panel III. After validation of the data, statistical analysis was performed using Epi-Info software version 7.2.2.16 and the statistical level of significance was set at 5.0%. 231 were using a modern contraceptive method, 28 were not using a contraceptive method, and 12 were non-consenting. The contraceptive method use rate was 89.19% and the most commonly used method was injectable contraception (49.35%). According to National Cholesterol Education Program criteria, almost 38.96% of these women were overweight and 50.65% had a serum high density lipoproteins cholesterol level of less than 0.50 g/L. Among women on contraceptives, the prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 22.08%. However, there was no significant association between contraceptive use and the occurrence of metabolic syndrome (p = 0.63). Contraceptive use was certain in all the participants, it's reported that, according to the NCEP-ATPIII a prevalence of 22.08% of metabolic syndrome among women using modern contraceptive methods in Douala, Republic of Cameroon. The high-risk groups were women using injectable method. Therefore, lipid profiles should be assessed in those women in order to manage them better.

Prevalence of occupational injuries and associated factors among solid waste collectors in Jigjiga city, eastern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study design.

Solid waste collectors play an important role in maintaining health and hygiene in cities globally. The risk levels are very high in low-income countries since solid waste collectors have low socio-economic status and are exposed directly, unknowingly, and without adequate personal protection to municipal solid waste that contains hazardous materials. Solid waste collectors in Ethiopia are at high risk of occupational injuries due to the manual collection of hazardous solid waste by hand. In Jigjiga city, so far, there has been no study or published research showing the prevalence of occupational injuries and associated factors among municipal solid waste collectors. To assess the prevalence of occupational injuries and associated factors among solid waste collectors in Jigjiga City, Somali Regional State, Ethiopia, 2023. An institutional cross-sectional study was conducted in Jigjiga City, Somali Regional State, involving 247 solid waste collectors. Data was collected through an observational and structured questionnaire and analyzed using Epi Info and STATA software programs. The study used systematic random sampling techniques and bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses to determine the statistical association between the outcome variable and independent variables. The significance of the association was tested using the 95% confidence interval and p value (<0.05). The overall prevalence of occupational injuries was 54.7% (95% CI: 48.2%, 60.6%). Training on health and safety measures before employment [AOR: 0.43, 95% CI (0.24, 0.80)], sleeping problems [AOR: 3.28, 95% CI (1.86, 5.78)] and Temporary workers [AOR: 2.14, 95% CI (1.16, 3.95)] were significantly associated with occupational injuries. The prevalence rate of occupational injuries among solid waste collectors in Jigjiga City was high. There should be preventive measures, like giving Training on Health and safety before employment, to safeguard the health and safety conditions of the workers.

Association of Consanguineous Marriage with Sociodemographic Characteristics of Parents and its Impact on Mortality and Morbidity in off Springs: Analytical Study from Punjab, Pakistan

Objective: This study aims to fill the gap in literature by demonstrating the significance of Sociodemographic determinants and its impact on mortality and morbidity in off springs of consanguineous couples in Punjab, Pakistan. Study Design: Cross-sectional analytical study. Place and Duration of Study: Study was four months from Nov 2021 to Mar 2022, online on married couples in Punjab, Pakistan. Methodology: Married couples of both the consanguineous and non-consanguineous marriages who were able to participate and understand questions in survey were included. Sample size of 338 was calculated using Open epi info software. Keeping in view the response rate of 76% forms were distributed to 400 participants. Sampling technique uses was non probability purposive sampling. The questionnaire included Sociodemographic information and questions related to morbidity and mortality in off springs for qualitative variables, relevant frequencies and percentages were determined. Chi square test was applied to determine relationship between two qualitative variables, a p-value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Total n=193(64%) were non-consanguineous couples, while n=107(36%) were consanguineous. Majority were between 46-60 years of age and monthly income of Rs. 71,000-90,000 Almost one third was graduates=91(30%) and post graduates n=84(28%).The prevalence of diseases came high in children of consanguineous families n=13(4%) as compare to non-consanguineous. There was a significant association between type of marriage disease (p=0.001) and under-five mortality in children (p=0.003). Conclusion: The children born to consanguineous couples exhibited more burden of inherited disorders than children born to non-consanguineous couples.

Factors Associated With Needle Stick Injuries Among Healthcare Workers: A Retrospective Study in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Eastern India.

Needle stick injury (NSI) is one of the significant and serious health hazards encountered by healthcare workers (HCWs), as it is a risk factor for transmission of blood-borne infections like HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV). This study aims to describe the frequency and distribution of the NSIs reported in the institution over a period of four years, the factors associated with it and the immediate post-exposure prophylaxis administered. A record-based retrospective analysis of the NSIs suffered by HCWs working in the Pradyumna Bal Memorial Hospital (PBMH), Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), Bhubaneswar over a period of four years (2019 - 2022) was conducted. Data was extracted from the Exposure Prevention Information Network (EPINet) using a researcher-made proforma and analysed using Epi Info software 7.3.2. There were a total of 115 reported cases of NSIs, the incidence being 2.52%, 1.55%, 0.85% and 1.64% in the years 2019,2020,2021 and 2022 respectively. The most commonly affected age group was 18-30 years with females constituting the majority. Nurses were more commonly affected in the first two years of the study (2019 and 2020) whereas in 2021 and 2022 housekeeping staff suffered more injuries. The highest incidence of NSIs (40%-59%) was noted to have occurred in the morning shift. Inpatient department (IPD) contributed the maximum number of cases of NSIs. Out of the 93 cases with known source patient, HIV serological status was negative for all, while HBV and HCV status was positive in nine and two cases respectively. The serology status for the three viral markers (HIV, HBV and HCV) was unknown in 22 cases. After evaluation for the necessity of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), initial PEP was given to 14 persons for prevention of HBV and to 20 persons for HIV prevention. Of the total NSIs reported over the four years, the incidence of NSIs per thousand HCWs showed a declining trend; with the younger age group and female gender reporting a higher incidence. Job category wise, housekeeping staff and nursing staff suffered more NSIs. Highest number of NSIs were reported from IPD.A greater proportion of NSIs were due to hollow bore needles. Most of the injuries occurred during daytime. Source patient could be identified in majority of the cases. HCWs who were identified to be at riskreceived immediate PEP as per the institutional policy. Stringent documentation of NSIs can assist in root cause analysis and to implement measures toprevent their occurrence.

Prevalence and Predictors of Depression Among Drug-Sensitive Tuberculosis Patients – A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: According to World Health Organization, India is a high tuberculosis (TB) and depression burden state. The risk of depression is higher among TB patients. Therefore, it is vital to focus on the mental well-being of TB patients. Objective: The present study aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of depression among drug-sensitive TB patients in Chandigarh city. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 305 TB patients. Trained investigators administered Patient Health Questionnaire 9 to screen for depression. Data analysis was done using Epi info software for windows. Results: The prevalence rate of depression among drug-sensitive TB patients was 7.2%. Current nonworking individuals were more likely to be depressed than their counterparts (OR = 3.7 (1.2–10.9)). Conclusion: Around one-tenth of the TB patients were suffering from depression. This necessitates physicians to regularly screen TB patients for depression and manage accordingly, which will help improve treatment adherence and outcome.

EFFECT OF PHOTOTHERAPY ON SERUM CALCIUM AND MAGNESIUM LEVELS IN NEWBORNS WITH HYPERBILIRUBINEMIA ADMITTED TO NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE AT A TERTIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL IN THE KOLHAN REGION OF JHARKHAND

Objectives: Neonatal jaundice is a medical condition causing yellowish skin discoloration, leading to hospital readmissions in the first 2 weeks of life. It affects 60% of full-term babies and 80% of premature infants. Severe jaundice can cause kernicterus and neurological damage. Treatment options include phototherapy, exchange transfusions, or pharmacological therapy. Phototherapy is the safest and most effective treatment, but it can lead to hypocalcemia and hypomagnesemia due to its effect on the pineal gland. The present study shows the effect of phototherapy on serum calcium and magnesium levels in hyperbilirubinemia. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 221 neonates with hyperbilirubinemia who were treated with phototherapy. We measured bilirubin, calcium, and magnesium levels in their blood samples at admission and 48 h after initiation of phototherapy. The data were analyzed using Epi-Info software. Results: Before phototherapy, the mean serum calcium was 8.79±1.44, but it decreased significantly to 8.13±1.67 (p&lt;0.05). Before phototherapy, the mean serum magnesium level was 3.22±0.72 and reduced considerably to 2.56±0.50 (p&lt;0.05). After phototherapy, total serum bilirubin levels reduced dramatically (from 13.07±3.41 to 8.63±3.10) (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: The present study shown that phototherapy has a significant effect on the levels of serum calcium, magnesium, and total serum bilirubin by reducing the level.

Exploring knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding salt intake: A community-based cross-sectional study

Background: Reducing excessive salt consumption can help mitigate associated health risks. By integrating an understanding of the risks of excessive salt consumption and fostering a positive attitudes toward healthier dietary choices, a low-salt lifestyle can be implemented. Aim and Objectives: To determine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward dietary salt intake and to estimate the mean salt intake among adults. Methodology: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 study participants in Chandigarh city of North India. After obtaining informed written consent, participants were administered a structured questionnaire. In addition, a spot urine sample was collected from one-sixth of the study participants (n = 50). Data collected were analyzed using Epi Info software for Windows (CDC Atlanta). Results: A high proportion was aware that a high salt diet can cause serious health problems (92.3%). Mostly, the study participants (92.1%) opined that limiting the amount of salt was important for them and 84.7% thought they consumed the right amount of salt. Around two-third (72.2%) of the study participants never/rarely added salt to food at the table and 86.3% took some action to control their salt intake. Among the 50 study participants whose spot urine was tested in 42 (92%), the daily salt intake was more than the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended 5 g/day. Conclusion: The results of this study highlight a high level of knowledge, attitude, and practice with regard to salt intake. However, urine testing revealed that a high proportion of those tested consumed nearly double the WHO recommended threshold of 5 g of salt per day. It is therefore suggested that public health initiatives aimed at promoting recommended salt consumption levels should be further strengthened.

Factors that determine the level of non-adherence to HAART among HIV-positive pregnant women in Kaduna State

Despite a decreased trend in the global HIV burden, up to 46% of fresh infections were reported in women and girls in 2022, with sub-Saharan Africa accounting for 70% of cases. One of the reasons HIV remains a major public health threat in Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, is pregnant women's non-adherence to ART, which can lead to drug resistance resulting in the transmission of the virus to the unborn child. This study was aimed at determining the levels of non-adherence and identifying factors determining non-adherence to ART among HIV-positive pregnant women in Kaduna state. It was a cross-sectional study using a three-stage sampling technique. It involved 318 HIV-positive pregnant women attending ANC in nine selected hospitals. Electronic questionnaires were administered over 10 weeks. Non-adherence was assessed using four validated techniques. Pill count calculation was used as an indicator of non-adherence for further analysis on account of its documented correlation with better adherence. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were done with Microsoft Excel and Epi Info software. Levels of non-adherence ranged from 5.7% (3-day recall) to 28.6% (7-day recall) to 6.6% (Visual Analogue Scale) to 13.8% (Pill Count). Of all the factors affecting non-adherence (pill count), having a negative attitude toward ART was significantly associated with non-adherence. The level of non-adherence, a function of the assessment method, is lower than in most similar studies. We propose that qualified staff should enhance effective ongoing triage-based interventions using a graded baseline assessment to ensure that all HIV-pregnant women on HAART attain optimal adherence.

A Five-Year Trend Analysis of Antibacterial Resistance Patterns Among Non-fermenting Gram-Negative Bacilli: A Retrospective Study From the ICU Settings of a Tertiary Care Hospital.

Non-fermenting gram-negative bacilli (NFGNB) infections have emerged as a serious health concern in ICUs. Multi-drug resistant (MDR) strains of NFGNB can evolve by acquiring resistance genes to at least one agent in three or more antibacterial categories. This study aimed to analyse the prevalence of NFGNB, the distribution of MDR strains, and antibiotic resistance trends of NFGNB in different ICUs of a tertiary care hospital over a period of five years. This retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary care teaching hospital in eastern India, including a total of 20,256 samples received from various ICUs over five years. Data retrieved from the Laboratory Information System (LIS) of the hospital, and repetitive isolates from the same patients, were excluded. All samples were processed according to standard microbiological protocols by automated systems. Data were entered into a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet (Microsoft® Corp., Redmond, WA, USA), analysed using Epi Info software, and presented using descriptive statistics. Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests (where appropriate) were used as tests of significance, with a p-value of <0.05 considered statistically significant. A total of 18,032 culture-positive samples out of 20,256 samples showed growth of 18,659 bacteria. Out of these, 952 isolates were NFGNB. The prevalence of NFGNB was found to be 5.10% among all isolated bacteria. The predominant sources were respiratory samples (37.3%). Acinetobacter spp. emerged as the most prevalent NFGNB (46.5%), followed by Pseudomonas spp. (31%) and Burkholderia spp. (14.3%). Among the NFGNB isolates, 61.76% exhibited MDR, with the highest prevalence of MDR strains seen in Elizabethkingia spp. (94.7%). Among the most prevalent NFGNB, Acinetobacter spp., 64.8% were MDR strains. Trend analysis of antibiotic resistance patterns of Acinetobacter spp. indicated a substantial increase for trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole by 18.5%, minocycline (44.4%), amikacin (20.4%), and ceftazidime (7.4%), whereas there was a reduced trend in resistance to carbapenems (6.5%), ciprofloxacin (4.7%), and cefepime (3.7%) over five years. In Pseudomonas spp., resistance to meropenem increased by 17.4%, and for ceftazidime (11.8%), amikacin (10.6%), and piperacillin-tazobactam (7.9%), whereas resistance to aztreonam diminished by 13.9%. Burkholderia spp. exhibited a 23.5% escalation in resistance to meropenem and ceftazidime (5.9%), while resistance to levofloxacin experienced a decrease of 30.2%. The study showed the prevalence of various NFGNB as 5.10% in ICU settings, with Acinetobacter spp. (46.5%) being the most common isolated bacteria. Notably, 61.76% of the isolates were MDR. Antibiotic trend analysis over five years showed increasing resistance of Acinetobacter spp. to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, minocycline, and ceftazidime, with improved susceptibility for carbapenems, ciprofloxacin, and cefepime. Pseudomonas spp. showed increased susceptibility to aztreonam and rising resistance for meropenem, piperacillin-tazobactam, ceftazidime, and amikacin. In Burkholderia spp., there was increased susceptibility to levofloxacin and rising resistance to meropenem and ceftazidime. These findings focus on the need for vigilant antibiotic stewardship, with the adoption of appropriate infection prevention and control practices to restrict the emergence and spread of MDR NFGNB infections in ICU settings of hospitals.

Time-deferred consequences: A deep dive into delayed adverse reactions among whole blood donors

Abstract BACKGROUND: The Blood Donor Health is an important component in blood transfusion services. The retention of blood donors is important, if not less than the recruitment of new blood donors. Despite the recognized importance of donor health, several challenges impede the retention of donors. These include the donor experience in the form of adverse reactions ranging from mild to severe which can be immediate or delayed. Such experiences can deter blood donors from returning to donor pool. Our study focuses on the incidence, types, and impacts of delayed adverse reactions (DARs) among whole blood donors in an Indian context, aiming to enhance donor retention through improved safety and experience. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective observational study was conducted at a premier tertiary care and research institute in Central India. The study included 1615 whole blood donors over 6-month period and used telephonic interviews on day 7 for postdonation follow-up. Statistical analysis was performed using Epi Info software, focusing on donor demographics, incidence, and types of DARs, and their association with various factors. RESULTS: The study found a 6.31% incidence of DARs, the most common being generalized weakness, followed by bruising and painful arms. A higher body mass index (BMI) significantly associated with an increased incidence of DARs. Notably, 75.5% of donors who experienced DARs expressed reluctance toward future blood donations, compared to 2.8% of those without DARs, highlighting the impact of DARs on donor retention. CONCLUSION: This study underscores the importance of monitoring and managing DARs to enhance donor safety and experience, thereby improving retention rates. It suggests the need for systematic follow-up protocols, focused strategies for high-risk groups, enhanced support for female donors, standardization in definitions, and robust donor education programs. The findings contribute to the knowledge base on DARs in blood donation, ensuring a reliable blood supply crucial for healthcare.

Cesarean Delivery in Case of Retroplacental Hematoma in a Reference Health Center in Bamako, Mali

Introduction: Retroplacental hematoma is a significant cause of maternal death in developing countries. The objective of this study was to study the retroplacental hematoma at the reference health center (CSRef) of commune V of the district of Bamako. Patients and Method: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at the gynaecological and obstetrics department of the CSRéf of commune V in the district of Bamako. It involved 117 cases of retroplacental hematoma. Data entry and analysis were carried out on the Epi info software version 6.2. Results: Our study found that the frequency of retroplacental hematoma was 1.44%. The preferred age was 20 to 34 years (76.3%). Large multiparous women were the most affected (38.1%) and 6.2% of patients had a history of HRP. Caesarean section was the most commonly used route of delivery (82.9%) and the fetal prognosis was very poor (64% of fresh stillbirths). Postoperative complications were dominated by anaemia (81.4%). Conclusion: Retroplacental hematoma is a worrying pathology because of its maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality.

“Intensified Case Finding of Tuberculosis among Diabetes Mellitus Patients attending Non-Communicable Disease Clinic in a Tertiary Care Hospital – An Implementation Research”

BackgroundFor ending the epidemic of TB by the year 2030, along in line with Sustainable Development Goals, it is essential to address the TB associated co-morbidities. Prevalence of diabetes influencing TB incidence and mortality is higher when compared to other co-morbidities like HIV infection, cigarette smoking, alcohol use and under-nutrition. Therefore, this study was conducted with the following objectives: 1.To evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention on implementation of TB-DM collaborative activity using four symptom complex strategy and to explore the patient and health providers related factors that contribute to implementation of activity. Material and MethodsThe present study was undertaken by Department of Community Medicine, Sri Manankula Vinayagar Medical College and Hospital, Puducherry for a period of 18 months in the Out Patient Departments of General Medicine, General Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Orthopedics, DOTS center and Designated Microscopy Centre. It was an embedded sequential experimental study, done among the health care professionals (CRRI, Postgraduates and staff nurse) who were involved in process of 4s complex screening for DM patients and the stakeholders who were involved in implementation of NTEP activity. The study was conducted in three phases. Phase I: baseline survey and identification of intervention strategies, Phase II: implementation of the intervention and Phase III: end line survey. Data entry and analysisManual content analysis was done for Qualitative data. The Quantitative data were entered into Epi Info software (version 7.2.2.6) and analyzed in SPSS software (version 24). Comparison of knowledge among the health care professionals before and after sensitization was calculated using Mc nemar test. It was considered statistically significant when the p value was <0.005. The analysis of free list and pile sort data was undertaken using Anthropac 4.98.1/X software. ResultsChallenges obtained from stakeholders in implementing the activity were categorized as patient related factor, health care professional related factor and screening and reporting related factor. Suggested solutions were generating awareness at patient level, display of IEC tools, periodical sensitization for the staff, inter-departmental co-ordination, monitoring and re-enforcing the activity in core-committee meetings. After sensitization, the knowledge on joint TB-DM collaborative activity was significantly improved among the health care professionals. By implementing the four symptom complex screening activity in NCD clinic, 6480 DM patients were screened and 176 (2.7%) presumptive TB cases were identified. Of which, 136 of them reached DMC for sputum examination. Among them 44 (35.4%) had active TB infection. The Number Needed to Screen to yield a case of TB was 147. Conclusionand recommendations: We found improvement in identification of TB cases using ICF approach with minimal resources. Thus, we recommend a support group to maintain and strengthen the ongoing activity. The challenges and solutions identified may help in optimizing the screening process. Implementing the activity in special clinics like oncology OPDs, nephrology OPDs, antenatal clinics can be recommended.

Age-Stratified Assessment of the Impact of Breast Cancer Knowledge on the Lifestyle and Dietary Patterns Among Nigerian Females.

Breast cancer (BC) is a major cause of cancer-related mortality in Nigeria, which is exacerbated by a lack of understanding of how knowledge of BC risk factors influences the lifestyle and dietary patterns of Nigerians across age groups. This study evaluated the influence of knowledge of BC risks on lifestyle and dietary patterns across age groups, aiming to inform early management, prevention, and survival rates. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Ota, Ado-odo, Ogun State, Nigeria, involving participants from six educational institutions. The study assessed knowledge of BC risks factors and lifestyle/dietary habits using questionnaires. Results were analyzed using Epi Info software and SPSS version 20. The participants' age ranged from 13 to 60 years, with a mean of 21 years. The age categories of the participants were 75.24% adolescents (13-19), 18.68% young adults (20-40), and 6.08% middle-aged (41-60). Middle-aged individuals had the least knowledge about smoking (7.58%), alcohol (26.09%), antibiotics (7.25%), and red meat/smoked foods (20.09%), which translated into their poor dietary/lifestyle patterns. Young adults showed profound physical inactivity (71.00%), while adolescents consumed more carbonated drinks (71.53%), which corresponded to lack of knowledge about the effects of physical inactivity (10.85%) and consumption of carbonated drinks (13.70%) on BC risk. The study found that understanding BC risk factors directly affects lifestyle and dietary patterns. Age groups with higher knowledge had better lifestyle/dietary patterns. This highlights the need for a tailored intervention on lifestyle and dietary education across all age groups, especially the middle-aged, so as to inform a deliberate adjustment in lifestyle and dietary habits, which play crucial roles in BC incidence, survival, and prevention.

Prevalence of Varicose Veins Among Surgeons: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Extended periods of standing, obesity, female sex, and older age are risk factors associated with a higher probability of developing varicose veins (VV). This study aimed to determine the prevalence of VV among surgeons in public hospitals inMakkah, Saudi Arabia, and to identify the risk factors associated with this condition. Methodology This is a descriptive cross-sectional study based on a validated online questionnaire distributed via hospital WhatsApp(Meta Platforms Inc., Menlo Park, CA) groups conducted between January and June 2024. The inclusion criteria of this study were surgeons of both sexes and any age group working in the selected hospitals in Makkah City, who agreed to participate in the study. The exclusion criteria were any other healthcare workers from outside the surgical field. We included 192 participants, and Epi Info software (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA) was used to calculate the sample size. The data were collected, reviewed, and then fed into IBM SPSS Statistics software for Windows version 21 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Every participant filled out a consent form. The university ethics committee of Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, granted ethical permission. Result This study comprised 192 surgeons in Makkah hospitals. Twenty-eight surgeons were either diagnosed with VV or had signs of VV. Varicose veins were detected among 50% of thoracic surgeons, 42.9% of pediatric surgeons, and 26.3% of orthopedic surgeons. The most reported risk factors were a family history of VV (17%), hypertension (16%), and diabetes mellitus (14%). Surgeons aged 40 years or older had a higher prevalence of VV than younger ones. Also, 55.6% of obese surgeons had VV compared to 7.8% of others with average weight. Conclusion We found that VV is a common problem, particularly among individuals with predisposing factors, such as long standing hours, smoking, pregnancy, and obesity. We found that surgeons specializing in thoracic and pediatric specialties and female surgeons were more likely to be affected by VV. Preventive measures, such as avoiding prolonged standing, wearing compression stockings, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, are recommended.

Clinical Outcome of Posterior Instrumented Stabilization and Transpedicular Decompression in Patients Presenting with Thoracic or Lumbar Spinal Tuberculosis in a Tertiary Care Center: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study.

Posterior instrumented stabilization is a commonly done surgery in spinal tuberculosis. This study aims to evaluate the clinical, radiological, and neurological outcomes of posterior instrumented stabilization and transpedicular decompression in thoracic and lumbar spinal tuberculosis. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted for one and a half years with at least six months of follow-up in a tertiary care center. The study was approved by the Institutional Review Committee (Reference number: 119 (6-11-5) 2/075-076). Total sampling was done and the study included patients over 18 years of age with spinal tuberculosis of the thoracic or lumbar regions. These patients underwent posterior instrumented stabilization and transpedicular decompression at the tertiary care center. The age, site of involvement, Visual Analog Scale score for back pain, neurological status as per Frankel Neurology grading, and local kyphotic angle in X-ray were recorded. The median, interquartile range and percentage were calculated. The data was entered in Microsoft Excel 2016 and analysis was done using Epi Info software version 7.2. Thoracic level was most commonly involved in 14 (46.68%) cases. The median back pain as assessed by the Visual Analogue Scale score improved from 8 to 2 at the 6-month follow-up. There was improvement in the neurological grading of all cases and there was no loss of correction in the local kyphotic angle till the final follow-up. The median age of cases was 48 years (interquartile range: 28-62.50). Posterior instrumented stabilization and transpedicular decompression in adult patients with thoracic or lumbar spinal tuberculosis achieves improvements in clinical, radiological, and neurological outcomes.

Prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus in saliva of healthcare workers

Background: The carrier state of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is pointed as an infection predictor and a factor for environmental and person-to-person dissemination, including health service workers. These, when colonized are commonly associated to outbreaks. Objective: Analyze the prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus in saliva of workers at a university hospital. Methodology: Epidemiologic longitudinal study carried out in Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil, with 486 workers between April 2006 and June 2008. Three saliva samples were collected and a data collection instrument was applied. Staphylococcus aureus were isolated from the clinical specimen and characterized by phenotypes. The data from the instrument and the laboratory results were organized and processed with EPI-Info software and analyzed via descriptive statistics. Results: Among the healthcare workers studied, 60.9% were colonized by Staphylococcus aureus in saliva; of those, 67.9% were transitory carriers and 32.1% were persistent carriers; the prevalence of meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) among the isolated cases was 15.7%. The average prevalence of MRSA was 12.7% and higher among nurses’ aides (21.4%) and cleaning aides (20.6%) and lower among nurses (4.5%) and doctors (5.9%). Conclusions: Healthcare workers presented high prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus in saliva, indicating the mouth as an important body site to investigate colonization by MRSA and a potential source to its dissemination.