Unhealthy Practices Research Articles

Prevalence and determinants of unhealthy feeding practices among young children aged 6–23 months in five sub-Saharan African countries

Introduction Despite the World Health Organization’s advice against unhealthy feeding, many low- and middle-income countries, including sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) countries, are experiencing a nutritional transition to high in sugar, unhealthy fats, salts, and processed carbohydrates for younger children. However, there is a scarcity of recently updated multicounty information on unhealthy feeding practices and determinants in SSA countries. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the pooled prevalence of unhealthy feeding practices and determinants among children aged 6–23 months in five SSA countries. Method A cross-sectional study design was employed with the most recent demographic and health survey secondary data (DHS) from five SSA countries. This secondary data was accessed from the DHS portal through an online request. The DHS is the global data collection initiative that provides detailed and high-quality data on population demographics, health, and nutrition in low- and middle-income countries. We used a weighted sample of 14,064 children aged 6–23 months. A multilevel mixed-effect binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify significant factors associated with unhealthy feeding practices. The level of statistical significance was declared with p-value < 0.05. Result This study found that overall, 62.4% (95% CI: 61.62–63.17) of children aged 6–23 months in five SSA countries had unhealthy feeding practices. Rural residents, lower-middle-income SSA countries, and children aged above 12 months had lower odds of unhealthy feeding practices. On the other hand, richer households and women who had not had an optimal antenatal care visit had higher odds of unhealthy feeding practices. Conclusion According to this study, nearly two out of three young children in five SSA countries had unhealthy feeding practices. Both individual and community-level factors are significantly associated with unhealthy feeding practices. As a result, responsible bodies shall make all efforts to reduce unhealthy feeding practices among young children in SSA countries.

The Impact of Social Media on Disordered Eating: Insights from Israel.

Social media platforms have become integral to daily life and increasingly disseminate health, nutrition, and food information. While these platforms can offer evidence-based nutrition education and meal planning guidance, a significant portion of content promotes unrealistic beauty standards and unhealthy weight-loss practices, potentially contributing to disordered eating behaviors. The increasing prevalence of disordered eating, characterized by abnormal eating behaviors and attitudes, has become a global public health concern. This study examines whether social media consumption correlates with disordered eating symptoms in Israeli college students. A cross-sectional study was conducted among college students at Ashkelon Academic College in Israel. The questionnaire assessed demographics, social media usage (platforms used, frequency, and content followed), body satisfaction, and disordered eating symptoms, measured via the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26). The study sample comprised 580 students (73% were female and 27% were male) with a mean age of 27.87 years. Participants predominantly used multiple social media platforms, with a majority following food-, eating-, and health-related content. Despite having a normal BMI, a substantial number of participants reported body dissatisfaction. The results indicated a positive correlation between social media use and disordered eating symptoms. Individuals who frequently engaged with food-related content on social media exhibited higher levels of disordered eating. Moreover, body satisfaction emerged as a significant mediator in the relationship between social media use and disordered eating symptoms. The findings of this study support the growing body of evidence linking social media use to disordered eating behaviors among young adults. Developing targeted interventions that promote media literacy and foster body positivity is essential. Additionally, future research should explore the long-term effects of social media on eating behaviors and the effectiveness of different prevention strategies.

Pattern of edible oil consumption and practice of reuse: A health concern

ABSTRACT Background: The per capita consumption of edible oil in Indian households has risen substantially in the last decade contributing to the rising incidence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Increasing prevalence of reuse of edible oil for frying is an unhealthy practice, as it gives rise to formation of free radicals and other harmful agents. Hence, present study highlights the pattern of edible oil consumption and practice of reuse among the families along with the influencing factors while purchasing edible oil. Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted among 172 families of third year MBBS students belonging to different socio-demographic and cultural background. A predesigned pretested questionnaire was administered to the families preferably to the mother. The details regarding consumption and reuse of the edible oil were asked. Result: A total of 172 families of third year MBBS students participated in the study which comprised of 672 family members. The quantity of oil consumed was estimated to be 13.64 kg/capita/year. Majority 80% of the respondents revealed that they reuse leftover oil after frying for other cooking purposes. Groundnut and soybean were the most preferred edible oil. Conclusion: According to study findings, consumption of edible oil at domestic level has increased along with the reuse of leftover oil. The increased consumption can be one of the important risk factors for increase in prevalence of non-communicable diseases which is a health concern. There is a need for the increase in awareness about use of edible oil through promotional activities for effective education of general public regarding prevention of NCDs.

Knowledge, attitude and practice regarding menstrual hygiene among secondary level students

Background & Objectives: Menstrual hygiene is an integral aspect of health and wellbeing of adolescent girls. However, effective management to improve menstrual health remain scarce which is evidence by widespread lack of knowledge and unhealthy practice. The objective of this study was to find out knowledge, attitude and practice related to menstrual hygiene among secondary level students in Janakpur, Nepal. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study design was used in secondary level girls of Shree Laxminiya Janata Secondary School of Dhanusha district studying in grade 9,10,11, & 12. A self -administered structured questionnaire was used to collect data by using total enumerative method. All together 210 students are taking part and entire students fill the form. Descriptive (frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (chi-square test) was used. Results: The study revealed that 52.86%of the respondents had good level of knowledge regarding menstrual hygiene. It also showed that 53.33% had favorable attitude regarding menstrual hygiene. Similarly, 54.77% of the respondents had good practice regarding menstrual hygiene. Family income p=0.001), grade (p=0.03), age (p=0.007), mother education status (p= 0.003), family occupation (p=0.001), family income (p=0.012) was statistically significant with level of knowledge, and attitude regarding menstrual hygiene. There was statistically significant between level of practice regarding menstrual hygiene and grade (p=0.002) and family income (p=0.004). There was also statistically significant association between respondent knowledge and practice p=0.045 and also statistically significant association between respondent knowledge and attitude p=0.0002. Conclusion: Significant portion of students demonstrated a good understanding of menstrual hygiene, some still lack sufficient knowledge, although their practice is not poor. It is recommended that concerned authority to conduct awareness program regarding menstrual hygiene so that it helps to generate knowledge.

Foetal Wastage and the Future of Cattle Production in Nigeria: A Review

Livestock remains an essential and integral component of Nigeria's agriculture and vital to the socio-economic and food security of the country. Bovine, the most prominent ruminant animal, serves as a source of household income, food security, draft power, transportation, revenue generation, employment opportunities and a well-balanced agricultural system through manure production and utilization of forages, which are of no value to man but converted to useful products. These resources were mismanaged through indiscriminate slaughter of breeding stock and subsequent foetal wastages across abattoirs, which serves as a center of the practice. This unhealthy and unethical practice results to the depletion of national herd size with poor replacement capacity. The review report focuses on the reported cases of gravid bovine slaughter and foetal damages in the registered abattoirs across the country. Lack of post-mortem examinations, crude facilities/equipment, farmer’s ignorance of pregnancy and developmental stages of the animal, poor management practices, poor or lack of implementations of international meat act, lack of law at state or national level that offer protection of pregnant animals were among the factors that accelerate the practice in the country. This practice is a threat to the livestock industry, which must be addressed through proper conservation programmes for substantial benefits of the livestock sector. Laws must be enacted with strict penalties to the principal actors to safe guard the livestock and meat industry in general.

Inhibition of intracellular versus extracellular cathepsin D differentially alters the liver lipidome of mice with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis.

The prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) progressing to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), characterized by hepatic inflammation, has significantly increased in recent years due to unhealthy dietary practices and sedentary lifestyles. Cathepsin D (CTSD), a lysosomal protease involved in lipid homeostasis, is linked to abnormal lipid metabolism and inflammation in MASH. Although primarily intracellular, CTSD can be secreted extracellularly. Our previous proteomics research has shown that inhibition of extracellular CTSD results in more anti-inflammatory effects and fewer potential side effects compared to intracellular CTSD inhibition. However, the correlation between reduced side effects and alterations in the hepatic lipid composition remains unknown. This study aims to investigate the correlation between intra- and extracellular CTSD inhibition and potential alterations in the hepatic lipid composition in MASH. Low-density lipoprotein receptor knockout (Ldlr-/-) mice were fed a high-fat diet for 10 weeks and received subcutaneous injections every 2 days of vehicle, intracellular CTSD inhibitor (GA-12), or extracellular CTSD inhibitor (CTD-002). Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) was used to visualize and compare the lipid composition in liver tissues. Hepatic phosphatidylcholine remodeling was observed with both inhibitors, suggesting their therapeutic potential in treating MASH. Treatment with an intracellular CTSD inhibitor resulted in elevated levels of cardiolipin, reactive oxygen species, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylethanolamine, and lipids that are linked to mitochondrial dysfunction and inflammation, and induced more oxidative stress. The observed modifications in lipid composition demonstrate the clinical advantages of extracellular CTSD inhibition as a potentially beneficial therapeutic approach for MASH.

Health Problems and Health Compliance among Taxi Drivers: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Drivers are exposed to several health risks due to their work environment, including irregular working hours, sitting for long periods, poor posture, and an unhealthy diet, in addition to stressful work environments, which are further exacerbated by the personal characteristics of drivers. This study aims to identify health problems and health complaints among taxi drivers. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Rania City. A Convenience sampling method was used to select 100 participants among 135 drivers. Sociodemographic, morbidity, and health compliance were collected from drivers. Data were gathered using a developed questionnaire and a stress-related health complaints questionnaire, through interviewing techniques. Result: Out of 100 participant drivers, less than half 48% were found to be healthy. 9% of drivers have musculoskeletal, and 8% have eye problems. Furthermore, the study also identified that taxi drivers have unhealthy lifestyle practices regarding smoking habits, using mobile phones during driving, and obesity. Obesity accounts for 25% of the study sample. Lastly, the study shows less than half of drivers an average of 41% had moderate health complaints. Conclusion and recommendation: Obesity, cell phone use, and speeding up driving are more prevalent among drivers. In terms of morbidity, the taxi drivers had complaints of various health issues, such as musculoskeletal problems and eye problems. Screening tests for drivers are needed to detect actual health problems in addition to vision tests every year. Increasing awareness and providing health education is essential regarding risks associated with occupational health among drivers.

Abuse and neglect as indicators of unhealthy behaviours among 15-year-old schoolchildren in Albania

ObjectiveWe assessed the independent associations of lifetime child abuse and neglect indices with behavioural characteristics of children. Study designA cross-sectional study was conducted in Albania in 2022. MethodsParticipants consisted of a nationwide representative sample of 1877 schoolchildren aged 15 years (55 % girls; response: 96 %). Data on lifetime child abuse and neglect were collected, along with behavioural factors and sociodemographic characteristics. Binary logistic regression was used to assess the independent associations of child abuse and neglect with behavioural factors of schoolchildren. ResultsIrrespective of sociodemographic characteristics, lifetime physical abuse was positively related to lifetime smoking (OR = 1.8, 95%CI = 1.4–2.3), lifetime alcohol consumption (OR = 2.4, 95%CI = 1.9–2.9), and breakfast skipping (OR = 1.3, 95%CI = 1.0–1.6). Furthermore, positive independent factors associated with emotional abuse included lifetime alcohol intake (OR = 1.7, 95%CI = 1.3–2.1) and breakfast skipping (OR = 1.4, 95%CI = 1.0–1.8). Additionally, positive factors associated with lifetime emotional neglect consisted of lifetime smoking (OR = 2.2, 95%CI = 1.6–3.0) and alcohol intake (OR = 2.0, 95%CI = 1.5–2.6), and a lower fruit consumption (OR = 1.7, 95%CI = 1.3–2.3). Positive factors associated with lifetime sexual abuse included lifetime alcohol consumption (OR = 2.4, 95%CI = 1.4–4.1) and especially smoking (OR = 4.3, 95%CI = 2.6–7.3). Also, lifetime witnessing of family violence was positively related to lifetime smoking (OR = 2.7, 95%CI = 1.8–4.1) and alcohol intake (OR = 1.7, 95%CI = 1.2–2.6). ConclusionsWe evidenced strong and consistent links between child maltreatment indices and unhealthy behavioural practices among 15-year-old children in Albania. These findings underscore the potential impact of early trauma on developmental trajectories. The association between child abuse and the adoption of detrimental behaviours highlights the urgent need for comprehensive support and intervention strategies to break the cycle of harm.

The pattern of diabetic care and glycemic control among the ambulatory diabetic patients in tertiary care settings in Bangladesh

Diabetes mellitus is a major public health concern in Bangladesh. The pattern of diabetic care and control of blood sugar among diabetic patients are not well described. We assessed the pattern of diabetic care among ambulatory diabetic patients attending tertiary care hospitals in Bangladesh, and explored the relationship of glycemic control with behavioral and metabolic risks. Any patient 18 years and older attending the medicine outpatient department (OPD) at randomly selected three government tertiary hospitals in three divisions in Bangladesh were examined by hospital doctors. If a patient who was diagnosed as having diabetes and produced any medical document to support the diagnosis was recruited following an informed consent. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, diabetic care plan and behavioral risks, including tobacco use, physical activity, healthy diet (daily fruits and vegetable consumption) and salt intake were obtained from study participants by recall. Three milliliters of venous blood were tested to determine uncontrolled diabetes by measuring glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C > 7.0), and hyperlipidemia by measuring total cholesterol (> 200 mg/dL), high density lipoprotein/HDL (< 40 Mg/dL, low density lipoprotein/ LDL (> 200 mg/dL), and Triglyceride (> 160 mg/dL). A Total of 465 patients were enrolled. The Mean age was 49 years (SD:11) and 58% were women. Sixty percent patients were on a treatment plan of anti-diabetic drugs (drug), healthy diet (diet) and physical activity (PA), 13.3% diet and drug, 9.7% on drug only, 6.4% on diet and PA, 3.9% on PA and drug, 1.3% on PA only and 0.9% on diet only. Two- third of the patients (68.6%) had uncontrolled diabetes, which was three times higher, if a patient had diabetes for more than five years than otherwise (OR: 3.31, 95% CI 2.06–5.33), two times higher if a patient did not consume fruits (OR: 2.28, 1.34–3.87), or three times higher, if a patient did not consume vegetables (OR: 3.70, 95% CI 1.80–7.59) than otherwise, 78% higher, if a patient had taken extra salt in meal than otherwise (OR: 1.78, 95% CI 1.13–2.80) and nine times higher, if a patient had a raised total cholesterol level (> 200 mg/dL) than otherwise (OR: 9.60, 95% CI 2.60–35.40) and three times higher, if a patient had a raised LDL level compared than otherwise (OR: 3.33, 95% CI: 1.93-5.70). Diabetic patients seeking care at tertiary hospitals in Bangladesh follow diverse diabetic care plans and the majority of them do not have diabetes under control. Unhealthy dietary practice and hyperlipidemia among diabetic patients contribute to uncontrolled diabetes. Routine monitoring of blood glucose and enforcing lifestyle modifications could promote effective control of diabetes among diabetic patients in Bangladesh.

Comparison of an Open versus List-Based Dietary Recall Method to Assess Unhealthy Feeding Practices among Infants and Young Children

BackgroundCollecting accurate dietary data is critical for assessing infant and young child feeding practices, identifying populations at risk, and using evidence to inform policy. In 2021, World Health Organization/United Nations Children’s Fund released new indicators of unhealthy food and beverage consumption and recommended that survey administrators use either an open or list-based method. ObjectivesThis study compared infants’ and young children’ unhealthy food consumption estimated using an open 24-h recall (24HR) compared with list-based 24HR among young children living in peri-urban Cambodia and explored the effect of social desirability bias on respondents’ responses. MethodsWe conducted a secondary analysis of unhealthy food consumption estimated in a longitudinal cohort study implemented from June 2021 through January 2022 in the rural/peri-urban district of Khsach Kandal, Kandal Province, Cambodia (567 children aged 10–13.9 mo at baseline). Each month, for 5 mo, data were collected via an open 24HR. At the 6th month, half of the children were randomly assigned to also receive a list-based 24HR to collect data on unhealthy food consumption. ResultsThe prevalence of sweet beverage and unhealthy food consumption and zero fruit and vegetable consumption among young children was high. We observed that the percentage of children consuming sweet foods was significantly higher when estimated using the list-based compared with an open 24HR method (61.6% compared with 43.8%; P = 0.012). An association between social desirability bias and reported consumption of salty/fried foods was also observed across both groups; however, this relationship was more pronounced among caregivers who received the list-based 24HR than the open 24HR (P = 0.004). ConclusionsResearchers must carefully consider the method used for 24HR because this may have implications for respondents’ recall and memory. As more evidence is collected on the rising consumption of unhealthy food and beverages among young children, researchers should take into consideration the effects of caregiver’s susceptibility to social desirability bias when analyzing these consumption patterns.

Lifestyle in patients with hypertension from the Shoulder to Shoulder Foundation

Introduction: Arterial hypertension (AHT) is defined as a disorder in which the blood vessels frequently have high tension, increasing the risk of cardiovascular, cerebral, and renal diseases, etc. Objective: To determine the lifestyles of patients with hypertension of the Hombro a Hombro Foundation, Santo Domingo, 2022. Methodology: The research is quantitative, data on the lifestyles of patients with arterial hypertension were collected, with a descriptive, cross-sectional level in which the collected data was stored and analyzed. The population consisted of 50 patients with arterial hypertension from the Shoulder to Shoulder Foundation. Results: Determining that within the healthy parameters are the physical condition, physical activity and sport; self-care and medical care; eating habits; the consumption of substances and some parameters on rest, although the last one could show that there is a small problem due to unhealthy practices. Conclusions: there are still patients who do not adhere to a new lifestyle, and work must continue to improve and treat as much as possible for the patient to adapt to this new stage, allowing him to be healthier

Food and exercise practices among British Pakistanis; how can Bourdieu's theory of practice help to understand them?

The prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are significant among the Pakistani ethnic group in the UK. Existing literature has identified food and exercise practices as contributing factors. This qualitative inquiry investigates food and exercise practices among this group. The study also identifies any cultural resistance to changing prevailing unhealthy practices. Five qualitative semi-structured interviews with local Pakistani community leaders, two focus group discussions, and 40 individual interviews with participants of both genders. Bourdieu's theory of practice was used to analyse the data. The lifestyle choices of the participants mainly follow the cultural practices of their home country. In particular, three cultural phenomena might have been contributing to CVDs among this community: a culture of consuming fatty and calorie-dense food, complexity in joint decision-making among family members, and a lack of motivation and cultural support for healthy physical activities, especially among women and older adults. It would be challenging to significantly influence this unhealthy lifestyle in the short term. Integrating religious discourse within health promotion, adopting a whole-family approach, and working with the community on healthier cooking and making exercise options culturally relevant could be helpful for reducing the prevalence of CVDs among the Pakistani community in the UK.

Lifestyle Patterns among Adolescents in Selected Schools of District Rohtak, Haryana: A Cross Sectional Study

Introduction: - Adolescence is a period in which an individual undergoes major physical and psychological changes. There is convincing evidence between lifestyle diseases and unhealthy habits which are acquired during adolescence and persist in adulthood. An early investigation of the lifestyles of adolescents will probably prevent their progression into serious diseases. Methods: - The present cross-sectional study recruited 600 adolescents studying 9th to 12th in the selected schools of Rohtak, Haryana, India. The lifestyle-related behavior and practices were assessed based on a structured proforma with the following domains: - home &amp; environment, education, eating habits, and sexuality. Ethical permission was obtained from the concerned authorities. Results: - The mean age of the study subjects was 15.9 (SD-1.4) and most of them were males (61%). More than half of the study subjects (52.7%) were having BMI of 18 to 25 Kg/m2 and 39.8% of them belonged to lower middle socio-economic status. A major proportion of the students felt happy to go to school (64%) and were regular in attending school (90%). The majority of them reported having some spiritual beliefs (88%). A major proportion of the students reported that they own smartphones (83%) and were using various social networking sites (83%). Around 63% of the subjects reported eating fast food on monthly basis. About 11% of the subjects reported the usage of alcohol in the current 3 months. Around 20% of the subjects reported knowledge regarding HIV/STD. Conclusion: - The study documents the presence of unhealthy dietary practices, higher levels of usage of mobile phones along with alcohol use in the school children in this setting. The current study provides some preliminary data for policymakers so that they can modify the current policies and interventions according to the needs of adolescents.

Breakfast Practices Among Indonesian Adults: Urban and Rural Differences and Its Associated Factors

Backgrounds: Adults in Indonesia have challenges due to the high prevalence of obesity. Factors that contributed to obesity included unhealthy eating practices. Skipping breakfast habits are linked to health issues such as non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Breakfast practices also reflected the social and cultural dynamics in urban and rural. Socioeconomic and demographic factors could cause differences in breakfast practices between urban and rural areas in Indonesia. Objectives: This research aimed to examine the differences in breakfast practices among Indonesian adults in urban and rural areas based on various characteristics and to explore the association between socioeconomic and demographic characteristics with breakfast practices. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study using secondary data from the Indonesia Food Barometer (IFB) in 2018. A total of 770 adults (26–45 years old) were examined to observe the differences in breakfast practices (skipping breakfast, eating together, buying food, cooking food, and activities during meals) in urban and rural areas. Logistic regression analysis was also employed to examine the association between skipping breakfast and modern breakfast practices with socioeconomic and demographic variables. Results: Chi-square analysis showed significant differences between urban and rural areas in eating alone, eating outside the home, and buying food during breakfast (p-value &lt;0.001). Factors related to skipping breakfast were education level and type of residence (all p-value &lt;0.001), while occupation (p-value = 0.004) and type of residence (p-value &lt;0.001) were related to modern breakfast practices. Conclusions: There were differences in breakfast practices between urban and rural. Skipping breakfast and modern breakfast practices were more prevalent in urban areas.

Antecedents of Accountability Based on Karma Pala Teachings and its Consequences on Panureksa VCI Performance in Badung Regency

The rampant involvement of Village Credit Institution (VCI) officials in corruption cases in various regions in Bali, especially in Badung Regency, is an interesting issue to be studied and researched further. This action, in addition to having an impact on the performance of the VCI organization, also has an impact on the sustainability of VCI in the future. As is known, published data shows that almost all regions in Bali have found VCI that are unhealthy and have even gone bankrupt. How is it possible that VCI, which is managed by the community based on traditional villages with very strict awig-awig, actually experiences fraud committed by the officials themselves. This is very embarrassing and distorts the goals of VCI that have been aspired to. The existence of various fraudulent practices is an indicator of the weak supervisory function in VCI. Prevention of unhealthy practices in VCI should be carried out properly if Panureksa is responsive to every transaction that exists. The failure of the supervisory body to prevent deviations in VCI management and protect village assets from corruption is a reflection of the weak performance of the VCI supervisory body. This study aims to answer the main problem regarding the role of belief in the law of karma as an antecedent in improving the performance of panureksa. This study was conducted at panureksa VCI in Badung Regency. Hypothesis testing was carried out using PLS-SEM analysis, with the help of SmartPLS 3.2.9 Software. The results of the study indicate that belief in the law of karma can increase the accountability of panureksa in carrying out their duties. Belief in the law of karma can function as a moral and ethical principle that encourages someone to act in a correct and responsible manner, with the belief that their actions will be rewarded accordingly in the future. Other results indicate that accountability can improve the performance of panureksa. Accountability requires panureksa to actively identify, assess, and manage risks that can affect VCI operations. Good risk management can reduce the likelihood of financial or operational problems, thereby increasing the stability and performance of the institution.

Community Beliefs and Practices Around High Fertility in a High-Risk Environment: A Qualitative Study on Porja Hilly Tribe Living in Andhra Pradesh, India

This study aims to document the tribal community beliefs and practices around fertility behaviours of the Porja vulnerable tribal group in Andhra Pradesh, India. With the purposive sampling method, 175 mothers of reproductive age (&gt;15–49 years) were selected based on the inclusion criteria of having experienced fertility practices and the cultural significance associated with it. The socio-demographic profiles and the fertility rates of 175 mothers have been enumerated through household survey methods and semi-structured interview schedules. The qualitative data collection involved 42 in-depth interviews and three focus group discussions (involving 6–10 women) on specific sociocultural practices around fertility behaviour patterns. Handwritten interviews and conversations were transcribed and coded into themes and categories. Views from the themes reveal that the sociocultural environment has influenced fertility behaviours. Age at marriage and conception at adolescence are the main factors affecting tribal fertility. Traditional fertility-seeking behaviour indicated sequential care from traditional birth attendants and local medicinal women (providing medicine for early conception and birth spacing). The preference for two sons’ was the theme that largely influenced fertility trends. There is a need for comprehensive healthcare intervention in the PVTG tribal areas to lessen the unhealthy reproductive practices that affect tribal survival chances, leading to higher mortality rates.

ROLE OF VIRUDDHAHARA IN CAUSING INFERTILITY- A CONCEPTUAL STUDY

In the present era, many lifestyle disorders are caused by unhealthy food habits and practices; infertility is one of them. The incidence has increased due to diversified daily routines, faulty food habits, and westernization, which affect the endocrine system and physiological factors. These issues can cause irregular menstruation, ovulation disorders, PCOS, fallopian tube blockage, endometriosis, hormonal disorders, and uterine abnormalities, ultimately leading to infertility. The Ayurvedic explanation of ‘Viruddhahara’ is a unique concept. Acharya Charaka mentioned Shandhya and Santanadosha while listing the diseases caused by Viruddhahara1 . Viruddhahara impairs Rasadhatu, which leads to the Dushti of its upadhatu, Artava(Menstrual blood). Long-term practice of Viruddhahara (unhealthy food habits) causes Artavadushti and also affects the ovum, menstrual blood, and ovarian hormones. Viruddhahara significantly affects the Garbhasambhava samagri. The practice of Satmya Ahara and Vihara can help avoid multiple causative factors of infertility, such as Beeja dosha, Artava or Shukradushti, and yonivyapat. Infertility is also caused by obesity and other diseases resulting from faulty food habits.

Influence Of Social Media On Gen-Z's Dermatological Practices: A Review

Introduction: Social media has become an important part of Generation Z (Gen-Z) lifestyle, serving as a platform for communication with peers, sharing content, and exploring various topics, including skincare and dermatological information. As the association between social media usage and skincare among Gen-Z garners increasing attention, this review seeks to examine studies investigating social media’s role in influencing Gen Z's dermatological behaviors, attitudes, and perceptions. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in major databases to identify relevant studies published between 2014 and 2024. Keywords used include "social media" (including specific platforms), "Gen-Z," "skin care," “adolescent,” and "dermatology," as well as other related terms. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria to 73 studies, a total of 21 studies were included in this review. Results: Findings indicate that social media use can influence Gen-Z skincare practices, including the use of skincare products and desire for cosmetic procedures. Additionally, social media can impact self-esteem and body image, leading to unhealthy skincare practices. Conversely, social media can be a source of accessible information about skincare and positive behavior change. Social media is also effective in reducing stigmatization of dermatoses, fostering interpersonal connections among patients with dermatological conditions, and recruiting participants for research studies. However, social media often underrepresents adverse effects and preventive measures. Conclusion: Overall, this review highlights the need for greater awareness and education about the potential impacts of social media on Gen-Z skincare practices. Dermatologists can provide guidance and support to adolescents and young adults navigating social media to promote healthy skincare practices.

A Descriptive Study to Assess the Unhealthy Lifestyle among Perimenopausal Women in a Selected Medical College Hospital, Mangaluru

Abstract Introduction The perimenopausal phase, also known as the menopausal transition, marks a crucial period in a woman's life, characterized by hormonal fluctuations and physiological changes. During this transitory period, lifestyle factors are critical in influencing health outcomes. Lifestyle Appraisal focuses on identifying the lifestyle factors and habits that may affect a woman's health throughout the perimenopausal period. Methods and Materials The objective of the study was to identify perimenopausal women with unhealthy lifestyle practices using a lifestyle appraisal questionnaire. The study used descriptive design to determine the unhealthy lifestyle among perimenopausal women in the age group of 45 to 55 years. A complete enumerative sampling was used to select the 148 participants who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Every participant completed the self-reported lifestyle assessment questionnaire (LAQ), except for the questions where the researcher measured blood pressure, height, and weight (body mass index [BMI]) with standard protocol. Results Unhealthy lifestyle habits persist in women. The average lifestyle appraisal score was 19.17 ± 6.88, ranging from 8 to 35. The higher the score, the unhealthy their lifestyle. The tool's highest possible score is 73. The majority of the subjects did not engage in regular exercise (43.9%), recreational activities (62.8%), or relaxation exercises (81.1%). A substantial number (54.1%) of women had encountered one to two stressful events in the last 6 months, with friends and family occasionally available for support (64.7%). None of them received love and affection every day, but rather on an occasional basis (69.6%). Most (81.1%) reported consuming meals with fruits and vegetables only two to three times a week, while fatty foods or sweets were ingested daily (60.1%). Furthermore, most (45.3%) participants were classified as overweight, with a BMI falling between 23 and 24.9. Conclusion Simple screening methods can be used to evaluate health and lay the groundwork for understanding a person's lifestyle, which helps preserve and encourage a healthy way of life.

The Welfare of Dogs and Cats in the European Union: A Gap Analysis of the Current Legal Framework.

Companion animals, especially dogs and cats, have increasingly been recognized as moral subjects and valued as family members by European citizens. This new role encourages policy makers to face the many companion animals' welfare issues not yet covered by the EU legislation. The main gaps in the protection of dog and cat welfare during their all lifespan have been identified: unhealthy and unethical breeding practices, irresponsible sale and ownership, transport for commercial and non-commercial purposes, training methods, working dog conditions and rights, regulation of dog and cat shows and competitions, the therapeutic neglect, dog and cat end-of-life care, shelter management legislation and the free-ranging cat and dog population rights. The EU legislation framework is still very weak and far from establishing a harmonized approach, promoting a high standard of care and protection across Member States. We conclude that education and awareness regarding responsible pet ownership and the need for a One Welfare approach have a high value in finding adequate solutions, especially when poor human social welfare affects companion animal welfare. Given the link between human and companion animal welfare, the use of stakeholders' involvement strategies and a transdisciplinary approach appear crucial for the development of an EU legal framework for the well-being of dogs and cats.