Tertiary Care Hospital In Mumbai Research Articles

Understanding Factors Responsible for Delay and Non-Compliance in COVID-19 Vaccination at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Mumbai, India

Background: Despite extensive first-dose coverage, delays in second doses and late first doses prompted a study on vaccine hesitancy and non-compliance. Methods: In 2022, a cross-sectional survey was conducted at a Mumbai vaccination center, involving 504 individuals who had received either the first or second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The study, conducted from February to April 2022, included interviews using a pre-validated schedule to assess vaccine acceptance, refusal, socio-demographics, and reasons for hesitancy. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics software 23.0 to understand factors influencing vaccine delay and non-compliance. Result: The study interviewed 504 participants at a Mumbai vaccination center. Most were male (63.9%), aged 18-44 (80%), and skilled workers (22.6%). Of those surveyed, 64 had received only the first vaccine dose. The delay in receiving the second dose was 37.4% for BBV152 and 41% for ChAdOx1 nCoV-19. The primary reason for delay was lack of time (50.6%), followed by fear of the vaccine (14.8%). Reasons for getting vaccinated later included resolving constraints (40.5%) and compulsion (25.8%). Vaccine choice reasons varied significantly (p < 0.0005), but delay proportions were similar across vaccines (p = 0.531). Conclusion: Even after many efforts by the government, large numbers of people have not taken vaccine on time. One of the reasons, as seen in the study is a busy work schedule which has hindered timely vaccination in individuals. Making vaccine available at work place may address this issue to some extent, besides ownership of the program by the public.

The quality of life of primary caretakers of children with cerebral palsy

ABSTRACT Background: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a heterogeneous group of disorder affecting the development of movement and posture, which is permanent nonprogressive. Previous studies in different regions have shown links between caregivers’ mental health and children’s well-being. However, the lack of such detailed research for the caretakers of children with CP and correlation of quality of life affected the type and severity of the condition; this necessitates the development of a new study to assess caregivers’ quality of life. Aim: Quality of life among caregivers of disabled children is an important concern in healthcare. We aim to evaluate the quality of life among caregivers of children with CP and to assess the factors affecting the caregivers’ quality of life, namely, age, gender, type, and gross motor function in children with CP. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional observational study, conducted over a period of 6 months. It included the caregivers of children with CP at a tertiary care hospital of Mumbai. Data were collected using the WHO BREF questionnaire. The children were divided into two groups (2 to 7 years and 7 to 12 years). The qualities of life of the caretakers of these two groups were compared in four domains, namely, physical, psychological, social, and environmental. Results: The study included 50 participants. Mothers (80%) and fathers (10%) were the primary caregivers. Caretakers of the children with cerebral palsy showed significant affected quality of life as calculated from WHO QOL BREF score in both age groups (2–7 and 7–12 years) and in all domains. Overall, the most affected domain in our study was of psychological health and the least affected domain was of the environmental domain. Conclusion: This study provides a snapshot of the impact of having a child with cerebral palsy on the lives of the caregivers Most of the caregivers in the study were mothers, and quality of life was affected in all domains mainly in psychological and physical domains. The study showed that there is a need for interventions in caregivers which can have an indirect impact on the children with CP.

Evaluation of the Prevalence and Pattern of Dyslipidemia in Newly Detected Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients and Nondiabetic Controls

Abstract Introduction: Dyslipidemia comprises disorders of lipoprotein metabolism, which is usually characterized by increased plasma levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoproteins (LDL), or reduced plasma level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Dyslipidemia is commonly found in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) patients causing an increased risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Many studies done previously show variable prevalence of dyslipidemia (68 to 85 %) in known diagnosed patients of T2DM (with unknown history of onset), however, only limited studies have been done for finding prevalence of dyslipidemia in newly detected T2DM patients. Aim: This study is a cross-sectional observational study done in a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai (India), aiming to study prevalence and pattern in newly detected T2DM patients. The secondary objective is to compare the prevalence and pattern of dyslipidemia in newly detected T2DM patients with non-diabetic controls. Material and Method: For this, 100 newly detected T2DM patients were chosen along with 100 cases of age & gender-matched non-diabetic controls. Their clinical profile and lipid profile of both groups were observed and compared. Result: Results showed higher prevalence of dyslipidemia in newly detected T2DM patients (64%) which was significantly more than the control group (32%). Moreover, the pattern of dyslipidemia showed greater mean levels of TC, TG, and LDL and low mean levels of HDL in T2DM patients compared to the control group. Conclusion: These findings show that there is an increased risk of Dyslipidemia in new onset T2DM patients.

Salvaging Vision: A Study of Non-Traumatic Optic Neuropathies

Background and Objectives: Various ear, nose, and throat (ENT) conditions can result in vision loss. The purpose of this study is to identify the etiologies, presentations, and radiological findings associated with impaired vision in the context of ENT. Additionally, this article discusses management protocols, including optic nerve decompression and orbital decompression.Methods: In a retrospective study, we examined the period from 2016 to 2022 at a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai, India. The analysis included 11 patients who presented with progressive diminution of vision. All patients received a regimen of broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics and high-dose intravenous steroids. This was followed by either endoscopic optic nerve decompression or orbital decompression. Subsequent improvements in vision were documented, and any complications were evaluated.Results: A total of 11 patients were treated with medical management followed by successful surgery, with 10 patients demonstrating significant vision improvement.Conclusion: Identifying the etiology of vision loss and managing the condition can present challenges for otorhinolaryngologists. A thorough grasp of the underlying pathophysiology, combined with active surveillance of clinical and radiological indicators, can enable these clinicians to achieve effective and rewarding outcomes.

A Cross sectional study to assess relation between Behavioural Risk Factors and Body Mass Index with Professional Stress among staff nurses of a Tertiary care Hospital of Mumbai

A Cross sectional study to assess relation between Behavioural Risk Factors and Body Mass Index with Professional Stress among staff nurses of a Tertiary care Hospital of Mumbai

A Prospective Observational Study of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding in Females of Reproductive Age Group at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Mumbai, India

A Prospective Observational Study of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding in Females of Reproductive Age Group at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Mumbai, India

Study on the Effect of Maternal Haemoglobin on Birth Weight of Newborn Babies

Background: Anemia is a very common condition found in pregnant women, which has a deleterious effect on foetal wellbeing including weight gain of fetus. Studies indicate that anemia in pregnancy is a risk factor low birth weight and possibly for inferior neonatal health. The present study is done to determine the effect of the maternal hemoglobin on birth weight. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was carried out at a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai. All pregnant females with single live pregnancy were included in this study. After the selection criteria was satisfied, all term babies born to pregnant females with single live pregnancy were examined and birth weight was recovered on a digital weighing scale. Results: Among the anemic mothers, 39 (27.3%) had mild anemia (Hb: 10 – 10.9), 32 (22.4%) had moderate anemia (Hb: 7 – 9.9) and 9 (6.3%) had severe anemia (Hb: <7). Of the 143 newborns born to those mothers, 74 (51.7%) weighed between 2500 – 3500 grams, 56 (39.2%) were low birth weight (<2500g) babies and only 13 (9.1%) were above 3500 grams. Conclusions: According to our study, anemic mothers delivered babies with low birth weight than nonanemic mothers. Present study showed prevalence of low-birth-weight babies to be 39.2%. Interventions to reduce low birth weight should be specific for specific populations. Approaches to improve the health of the women are needed to reduce the low-birth-weight problem in India. Keywords: Maternal haemoglobin, Anemia, Low birth weight.

IJCM_412A: Self Medication Practices Among Patient Attending Fever Opd At Tertiary Care Hospital In Mumbai.

Background: Self-medication is defined as the use of drugs to treat self- diagnosed disorders or symptoms, or the intermittent or continued use of a prescribed drug for chronic or recurrent disease or symptoms. The practice of self-medication is common worldwide in both developed and developing countries which often leads to dangerous unwarranted adverse effects, antimicrobial resistance, ultimately increasing cost burden due to health care. Objective: The study aimed to determine the prevalence of self-medication among patients; to identify risk factors that could influence self-medication practices; to identify sources of information about medications used; and to identify reasons for self-medication. Methodology: cross-sectional study was carried out among patient, information regarding self-medication use in the past six months and associated sociodemographic factors, purpose, source of drug procurement, attitude toward self-medication use were collected. The data were obtained using a validated pretested self-administered questionnaire. The collected data will be analyzed using SPSS for descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: In our study the prevalence of Self Medication practices were observed to be 45.6%. The practice was noticed more among individuals from lower middle class family with a prevalence rate of 26%. Telling the symptoms to pharmacist was the commonest method adopted to procure drugs by the users i.e. 61%Majority of the self-medication users expressed that self-medication is harmless and 32.2 % found it effective and 88.9% said they had never experienced any adverse effects, 81.3 % consider it as acceptable practice. Conclusion: Prevalence of SM practices are high. Most common reason being poverty, confidence in self – diagnosis, In order to mitigate the negative effects of SM behaviours, additional prompt measures are required.

Profile and Geospatial Analysis of Dog Bite Cases Attending the Antirabies Vaccine Outpatient Department at the Tertiary Level Hospital of Mumbai.

Dog bites pose a significant public health concern in India, necessitating an understanding of their epidemiological profile and spatial distribution. Adopting the One Health approach, which considers the interconnection of human, animal, and environmental health, is vital for developing effective interventions. The study aimed to assess the epidemiological profile and geospatial trends of dog bite cases in an urban area, focusing on the age and gender distribution of victims, severity of bites, and spatial distribution of cases to inform prevention strategies. A retrospective secondary data analysis was conducted on dog bite cases reported in 2022 at a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai. The epidemiological profile, including age, gender, and severity of bites, was examined. Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) was utilized for spatial distribution analysis, identifying hotspots within the urban area. Of the 3350 cases, 70.7% were below 40 years old, 81.6% were male, and 78.18% had Category III bites indicating severe injuries. Most cases (74%) were caused by stray dogs. QGIS analysis revealed five hotspots within the urban area. The study highlights the predominance of dog bites among younger males and the severity of injuries. Spatial analysis identified specific hotspots, underscoring the need for targeted interventions. Implementing a comprehensive surveillance system incorporating GIS technology and adopting a One Health approach can enhance the control and prevention of dog bite cases and reduce the risk of rabies outbreaks.

Effectiveness of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Various Tumor Types Treated by Low, Per-Weight, and Conventional Doses at a Tertiary Care Center in Mumbai.

The cost of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) limits their accessibility to a small number of patients with cancer in low- and middle-income countries. Early-phase clinical trials have shown target inhibition and high activity at doses lower than those registered and evaluated in clinical trials. Here, we report everyday experience of using ICIs in 100 Indian patients, many of whom received lower doses of ICIs. Consecutive patients who received at least one dose of an ICI irrespective of tumor type at a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai, India, that was able to access ICIs for its patients were enrolled. The objectives were to study the doses used over a 3-year time period, and the effectiveness of therapy, assessed primarily by the overall response rate (ORR), overall survival (OS), and progression-free survival were secondary end points. Twenty-five patients were treated with conventional doses of ICIs, 29 patients received lower doses per body weight, and 46 patients received low-dose treatment. The median number of cycles received was 5 (range, 1-28). Seventy-eight patients received ICIs in a palliative setting. The median follow-up time was 10.2, 9.8, and 3.9 months for those receiving fixed approved dosing, per body weight dosing, and low-dose treatment, respectively. There was a trend with time to prescribe lower doses. Response evaluation was available for 92 patients. Twenty-one (five-adjuvant and 16-palliative) patients received ICIs only. The ORR did not differ statistically among different dosing groups, but comparisons are confounded by inclusion of different ICIs, different tumor sites, and concurrent treatments. The median OS was 6.8 (range, 4.6-9.0) months. Adoption of per-body weight and lower dosing of ICIs appears to give acceptable outcomes. Lower dosing can improve access and timely delivery of ICIs in low- and middle-income countries.

Effect of Disease-related Variables on Bone Mineral Density in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the bony architecture. Nevertheless, it remains uncertain whether these effects are due to disease progression, limited mobility, or medication. We conducted this study to analyze changes in bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with RA and its relationship with various disease parameters, such as demographic factors, disease activity, functional disability, duration since onset of symptoms, cumulative steroid dose, and titers of rheumatoid factor (RF). This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Rheumatology Clinic of the Tertiary Care Hospital of Mumbai. We included 96 consecutive patients diagnosed with RA using the American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism (ACR/EULAR) criteria. Demographic, clinical, and biochemical data were also collected. Disease severity was assessed using the Disease Activity Score 28 with Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (DAS28-ESR) score, and physical disability was assessed using the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) score. BMD was calculated using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Significant variations among continuous variables were examined using the t-test, while disparities between categorical variables were evaluated using the Chi-squared test. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05 within the 95% confidence interval (CI) range. Of the 96 patients, 77 were female, and 19 were male. The mean age of the study population was 45.28 ± 10.15 years. As the age of patients increased, BMD was found to decrease in the total lumbar spine, neck of the femur, and total hip region (p < 0.05). Sex did not seem to affect BMD. In all three regions, a decrease in BMD with increasing duration since the onset of RA symptoms was observed. Disease severity, measured using the DAS28-ESR score, did not decrease BMD. There was an increase in functional disability, calculated using the HAQ score, with a decrease in BMD at all sites. RF positivity was associated with decreased BMD at the neck of the femur and total hip region but not the total lumbar spine. Long-term use of steroids (≥30 days) decreased BMD at all three sites. Our study reiterates the effect of RA on the BMD of patients. Advanced age, duration since symptom onset, physical disability, RF positivity, and long-term corticosteroid use are disease-related factors affecting BMD in patients with RA.

Prevalence and risk factors of hearing loss in high-risk neonates at a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai

Background: The present study was conducted to assess the prevalence of hearing loss using measurements of otoacoustic emission (OAE) in newborns admitted to NICU and to determine the risk factors predictive of hearing impairment in these newborns. Methods: This was a Prospective observational study conducted among 220 newborns admitted to the NICU over 18 months. Ethical clearance was obtained from the IEC. The sample size was obtained by the universal sampling technique. All candidates underwent hearing assessment in a sound-treated room in the department using a distortion product OAEs (DPOAE) test at the time of discharge. Babies who did not pass the initial screening underwent another OAE test within one month after being discharged. If they failed the test again, they were referred to an otologist for BERA. Results: Of the 226 neonates included in the study, 40 cases (17.7%) failed the initial screening. 29 cases (12.8%) failed the second OAE screening and were subjected to BERA. Risk factors included asphyxia (p≤0.001), mechanical ventilation (p&lt;0.0004), history of ototoxic medication (p=0.004), neonates with hyperbilirubinemia requiring exchange transfusion (p=0.005), low Apgar scores (p≤0.001). Conclusions: A two-stage OAE hearing screening can be a suitable method for early detection of hearing impairment in newborns. This method has shown high prevalence of hearing loss among high-risk neonates but needs to be confirmed with diagnostic BERA. It is crucial to have universal hearing screening to detect the large number of hearing-impaired neonates in the newborn population of our country, including those who are not considered at risk.

A study of drug prescription patterns, disease-therapy awareness and of quality of life among patients with migraine visiting a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai, India

Background: Migraine is one of the leading causes of disability globally. There is scarcity of data on disease -therapy awareness and its correlation with demographic factors. Hence its was of interest to assess those along with quality of life in these patients. Methods: A Cross-sectional observational study was conducted in108 patients attending the Neurology and headache OPD at a tertiary care hospital between March 2017 and August 2018. Disease and therapy awareness among patients were evaluated using validated questionnaires and correlation was done with demographic factors. The severity of the disease and its impact on the patients' quality of life were assessed using the migraine disability assessment scale. Results: The mean disease and therapy awareness scores were 9 and 7 respectively. Both had a positive correlation with education and socioeconomic factors. The quality of life was affected moderately in 48.1% of the patients followed by severely 32.4% of the patients. The average number of drugs prescribed per encounter was 3.05. NSAIDS were used more commonly as compared to Triptans for acute attacks. Conclusions: The disease and therapy awareness were fair and positively correlated with education/ socioeconomic status. However, a significant disability was found among patients even with treatment. This highlights the need for educating these patients for effectively controlling the disability.

Study of Caesarean Section Births in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Mumbai Using Robson Classification System.

Robson ten-group classification system is recommended by WHO (World health organization) as a global standard for assessment and monitoring caesarean section (CS) rates. This classification is simple and robust. It is prospective, easily reproducible and clinically relevant. We conducted a prospective observational study of CS births at a tertiary care institute. Caesarean births in a tertiary care hospital were classified using Robson classification system as recommended by WHO. The study was conducted for period of 6months duration. The ethics committee of the institute approved this study. We enrolled 4771 consecutive women who delivered during this study period. We included patients who had vaginal delivery as well as those who had delivery by CS. Both live births and stillbirths (of at least 500-g birth weight or at least 22weeks gestation (according to WHO recommendations) were included in this study. During this study period, we had 4771 deliveries, out of which 2231 pregnant women (46.76%) were delivered by CS as compared to 2540 vaginal deliveries. Women with previous CS (term with single cephalic pregnancy) were included in Robson group 5. Group 5 had the highest CS rate (13.41%). Robson group 5, 1 and 10 were the largest contributors to the high CS rates at our institute. In our study, 4771 deliveries were conducted during this study period (6months). Out of 4771 deliveries, CS was done in 2231 pregnant women (46.76%). 2540 women had vaginal deliveries. Group 5 (13.41%) which comprised of women with previous CS had the highest CS rate followed by group 1 and group 10. The second largest contribution was from Group 1 with CS rate of 9.01%. Robson Group 1 included nulliparous term women with single cephalic pregnancy in spontaneous labour. Group 10 was the third largest contributor to the overall CS. Group 10 included women who delivered preterm (single cephalic presentation). Group 10 contributed to 8.09% of overall CS rate. We should make every effort to provide CS for women requiring this procedure, rather than work towards achieving a specific rate for CS.

Clinical Profile of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and its Correlation with Metabolic Syndrome and Cardiovascular Risk.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been projected, within the next 20 years, to become the major cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality as well as a leading indication for liver transplantation. Affected South Asian Indians are at higher risk for the development of metabolic syndrome (MS), type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. There is a dearth of data related to NAFLD and its various sequelae and correlation with cardiovascular disease in South Asia. It was an observational, prospective study conducted over 2 years on 80 patients in a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai. All patients diagnosed with NAFLD were investigated for MS according to the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria, and a relationship between NAFLD and MS was correlated. MS was found to be present in 72.5% of the patients. Significant results were obtained while correlating MS parameters and fatty liver grading, implying that patients with a higher fatty liver grading were more likely to have derangements in metabolic markers. NAFLD was found to be associated with an increased incidence of MS and thereby a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, warranting a high index of suspicion for both. A higher ultrasound grading of fatty liver was found to be associated with an increased incidence of MS.

Prevalence and molecular characterization of carbapenem resistant gram-negative bacilli in a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai

Carbapenem (CR) among gram-negative bacteria is a worldwide problem. It is ranked in the highest priority category in the World Health Organization (WHO) global priority list of pathogens.It is responsible for therapeutic failure in both hospital and community-acquired infections.Identifying and monitoring the local epidemiology of the carbapenem resistant organisms, understanding specific mechanisms underlying the resistance and implementing measures to prevent their spread is the need of the hour.The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence and molecular epidemiology of Carbapenem resistant Gram negative bacilli in this hospital.: A retrospective study was carried out in the Department of Microbiology of a tertiary care Hospital in Mumbai from January to December 2022. All Gram negative bacilli from various specimens were identified and antimicrobial susceptibility was reported using the VITEK2 automated system (BioMerieux, Durham, North Carolina) and interpreted as per CLSI 2022 guidelines. The resistant genes in the isolates were detected by Xpert Carba-R assay (Cepheid, Sunnyvale, CA) on request by a consulting physician.: Out of 2,351 gram negative bacilli isolates, 624 were Carbapenem resistant (26.5%). (59.9%) was the most common CR isolate. Molecular testing was done for 190 of these 624 CR isolates. In which New Delhi Metallo beta lactamase (NDM (33.68%) was the most common resistant gene identified followed by NDM &amp; OXA-48(32.63%). With the prevalence of Carbapenem resistant isolates in the settings, adherence to infection control practices and stringent implementation of antimicrobial stewardship is crucial to curb the rate of infection.

Alcohol and Tuberculosis: A Comprehensive Public Health Perspective and Case Series Study at a Tertiary Care Hospital

This study focuses on the intersection of alcoholism and pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) and its implications for public health. Conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai, the research aimed to identify the impact of alcohol consumption on PTB incidence, severity, and treatment outcomes among adult male patients. A descriptive case series approach was employed to study patients attending the outpatient department (OPD) and inpatient department (IPD) in May and June 2023. The findings revealed a significant association between alcoholism and PTB, with chronic alcoholic patients being more susceptible to TB infection and developing severe complications. Comorbidities such as HIV, uncontrolled diabetes, and hemoptysis were commonly observed in these patients, necessitating comprehensive and integrated healthcare services.

Investigator knowledge, awareness, and registrations of academic clinical trials with the Clinical Trial Registry of India: An observational study.

In 2019, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) introduced the New Drugs and Clinical Trials Rules 2019 (NDCTR), which separated the research guidelines for "Clinical Trials" and "Biomedical and Health Research." As a result, guidelines issued by Indian Council of Medical Research were stated to apply to academic clinical trials (ACTs). This change is important because academic studies are crucial for scientific advancement and repurposing of approved drugs in health-care industry. However, conducting an ACT can pose challenges. We assessed the level of awareness, knowledge, and challenges faced by investigators. Our aim is to overcome some of these challenges and encourage more academic studies for the betterment of healthcare and scientific knowledge in India. The study was conducted in two phases after obtaining approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee (EC) of three tertiary care hospitals in Mumbai. In the first phase, the number of ACTs was assessed from the clinical trial registry India website, while the number of registered and re-registered ECs were assessed from the CDSCO website. The second phase involved assessing investigator awareness and knowledge about ACTs using a prevalidated questionnaire with a content validity index score of 0.93. In 2020, the highest numbers of studies were registered, with the highest numbers of registered and re-registered ECs from Maharashtra. All participants completed the questionnaire and were aware of the need to follow guidelines for clinical trials. Sixty-seven percent of participants knew that the guidelines for ACTs differed from those of sponsored clinical trials, but only 58% were aware of the exact definition of an ACT as per NDCTR, 2019. Eighty-five percent of participants knew who could initiate an ACT, but only 27% knew about the applicability of results of an ACT and 33% had in-depth knowledge about the required approvals, while only 10% knew the archival period. Although 71% of participants had knowledge about serious adverse event reporting, few answered in-depth questions correctly. Only 31 participants reported facing varied challenges. To conduct ACTs effectively and contribute to healthcare and scientific advancement, it is crucial to enhance investigators' existing knowledge about ACTs.

A study of seroprevalence and the associated risk factors of hepatitis C at a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai

BackgroundHepatitis C is a hepatotropic virus and shows varied presentation of signs and symptoms in positive cases. The estimated global prevalence of hepatitis C is around 1%. There is lack of data in general population in India on prevalence of hepatitis C, except in targeted population like blood banks. Aims & objectivesThe study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital to estimate seroprevalence of hepatitis C in both sexes & different age groups, association of hepatitis C with signs and symptoms, possible risk factors for the transmission and co morbidities. MethodA prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of one year (2018–2019) at a tertiary care hospital and included 600 subjects at a tertiary care hospital. A detailed history of patient was recorded. Five milliliter of blood was collected for testing Hepatitis C by ELISA test. Results were analyzed statistically. ResultHepatitis C seroprevalence of 1.8% was observed in present study. It was predominantly seen in age group 0–10yrs (7%). Significant risk factors for hepatitis C were multiple blood transfusions (38.5%). Thalassemia was a statistically significant comorbidity (1.5%) associated with hepatitis C. ConclusionHepatitis C was found more prevalent in 0–10year thalassemic age group. So, a continuous periodic screening of Hepatitis C especially in high-risk groups, like cases of Thalassemia and also in blood transfusion recipients is essential for an early diagnosis.An early diagnosis can improve clinical outcome in the patient, as appropriate therapy and management can be initiated at the earliest, thus, decreasing mortality and morbidity seen in hepatitis C cases.

Assessment of Nutrient Intake and its Association with Protein Energy Wasting in Haemodialysis Patients

Background: Protein Energy Wasting (PEW) is one of the complications associated with HD, a multi-factorial, maladaptive metabolic state characterized by loss of body protein mass and energy reserves, which is a major cause of morbidity and mortality amongst these patients. Adequate nutrient intake in dialysis patients is, therefore, a challenge due to poor appetite, and anorexia because of the build-up of uremic toxins. Therefore, this study aims to assess PEW and nutrient intake consumption in the HD population to add to the Indian database. Methods: The study adopted a cross-sectional design conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai, India. A total of 54 chronic haemodialysis patients were recruited for the study through convenience sampling. Post dialysis session, measurement of weight was recorded. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to record the patient details. Results: The nutrient intake on dialysis day was observed to be lower as compared to non-dialysis day. Only 5% of patients were diagnosed with PEW. A significant correlation between Energy, Protein on dialysis, and non dialysis day, along with Carbohydrate, Sodium, and Potassium intake (p-value 0.001) was observed. Conclusion: The present study found that nutrient intake of Energy, Protein, CHO, Fats, Sodium and Potassium were lower on dialysis day as compared to non dialysis day. Majority of the patients were well nourished and only 5% of patients were Protein Energy Wasted. Keywords: Protein Energy Wasting (PEW), Nutrient intake, Haemodialysis, Appetite, Diet.