World Health Organization Estimates Research Articles

Incorporating basic periodontal screening into antenatal care services provided in Rwanda: A policy brief

Background Preterm birth, which is child delivery before 37 weeks of pregnancy, is the primary cause of perinatal mortality worldwide. Preterm birth remains a major public health challenge in Rwanda, affecting approximately 13.8% of birth. The World Health Organization estimates that 15 million babies are born prematurely each year. While the association between periodontitis and preterm deliveries is increasingly recognized, little is known about this link in Rwanda. This policy brief aims to bridge this knowledge gap by presenting the findings of a recent study investigating the prevalence of periodontitis among pregnant women in Rwanda and its association with preterm deliveries. This policy brief also aims to inform and guide decision making towards incorporating periodontal screening into the antenatal care package in Rwanda. This has the potential to improve pregnancy outcomes and contribute to improved oral health in the future. Policy outcome and Implications Contemporary evidence has shown a six-fold increased risk of preterm delivery for women with periodontitis in Rwanda, with a concerningly high prevalence (60%) among pregnant women. Additionally, nurses working in antenatal clinics displayed insufficient knowledge about gum disease. Actionable recommendations The adoption of basic periodontal screening within existing antenatal care packages is recommended. This, coupled with nurse training and public awareness campaigns, can empower women and healthcare professionals to prioritize oral health for better pregnancy outcomes. Conclusions Integrating periodontal screening into antenatal care has the potential to significantly reduce preterm deliveries and contribute to a healthier future generation in Rwanda.

Global prevalence of non-partner sexual violence against women.

Sexual violence against women is a human rights violation and public health concern, with serious implications for women's physical and mental health. Reducing non-partner sexual violence, including rape, sexual assault and other forms of non-contact sexual abuse, is one of the main indicators of the sustainable development goals. World Health Organization estimates, based on available prevalence data from 137 countries between 2000 and 2018, showed that, globally, 6% of women aged 15-49years reported experiencing sexual violence in their lifetime from someone other than an intimate partner, with prevalence rates varying across regions. However, the reporting, measurement and documentation of the global extent of non-partner sexual violence against women is methodologically challenging, resulting in a gross underestimation of its magnitude and impact. To prevent and respond to this issue, policy-makers must consider interventions on education, access to relevant health-care services, public awareness, and effective and comprehensive legislation. To better estimate the prevalence of both sexual violence overall and non-partner sexual violence, it is essential to continue to strengthen the measurement of non-partner sexual violence, including the types of acts asked about and the mode of interviewing. Further research is needed to understand the cumulative impact of different forms of sexual violence on the lives of women and girls, including sexual violence during childhood and its associated risk with further exposure. Funding is required for more research and implementation of interventions to prevent and reduce all forms of violence against women and girls, including sexual violence.

Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) in Pregnancy : Prevalence and Management

Abstract: - Anemia is a significant public health problem worldwide, particularly among pregnant women. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 18% of pregnant women in developed countries and 56% in developing countries are anemic. In India, anemia during pregnancy affects 45.7% of women in urban areas and 54.3% in rural areas. This review aims to provide an overview of the prevalence, causes, and management strategies of Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) during pregnancy, with a focus on the Indian context. The review highlights that anemia during pregnancy leads to significant health risks, including low birth weight and impaired cognitive and physical development in children. Key factors contributing to anemia include inadequate dietary intake, increased iron demands during pregnancy, and traditional cooking practices that do not promote adequate iron absorption. Management strategies for IDA include dietary modifications to increase iron intake and bioavailability, oral iron supplements, and intravenous iron therapy in severe cases. The review underscores the importance of early and regular antenatal care to monitor and address anemia. Notably, oral iron supplements are recommended to start early in pregnancy and continue with adjusted doses throughout gestation.

Study of Clinical Spectrum of Neurological Manifestations in HIV/AIDS Seen at Tertiary Referral Hospital in India

Objectives: The pandemic caused by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is one of the fastest growing health problems in the world today. Neurological manifestations of HIV infection and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) are being seen in a frequency that is parallel to the increasing number of new cases seen the world over. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that 36.7 million people in the world are infected with HIV. Neurological manifestations of HIV disease can be seen in 20% of outpatients in HIV clinics and almost half of HIV patients being treated as in-patients. Of the various subtypes of HIV, subtype C is responsible for more than 50% of HIV1 infections causing rapidly growing epidemics in India. The objectives of this study were as follows: (1) To evaluate the prevalence of neurological manifestation in HIV-positive patients admitted to a tertiary referral Hospital in India. (2) To describe the neurological manifestations documented. (3) To find the possible predictors of neurological manifestations. Material and Methods: This study was a single centre prospective cross-sectional study in which out of 200 HIV/AIDS patients, 40 patients with neurological manifestations were analysed over a period of 18 months. They were interviewed and evaluated with particular reference to neurological manifestations, and were classified using the WHO staging system. Results: Amongst the studied population of 40 patients, 16 patients (40%) manifested as tuberculous meningitis (TBM) with or without brain tuberculomas, followed by seven patients (18%) presented with peripheral neuropathy and six patients (15%) presented with central nervous system (CNS) vasculitic or multi-infarct state. Cryptococcal meningitis was seen in five patients (12%), efavirenz-induced psychosis/seizure seen in one patient, while HIV-induced polymyositis, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, acute inflammatory demylinating polyradiculoneuropathy, AIDS dementia complex and CNS toxoplasmosis were seen in one patient each respectively. One patient presented with dual opportunistic infection with coexistence of cryptococcal and tuberculous meningitis. Conclusion: Headache with or without vomiting, seizures and altered sensorium were the most common neurological symptoms. Fundus abnormalities, meningeal signs, gait abnormalities, cranial nerve dysfunction and hemiplegia were the most common neurological signs. New-onset headache was a significant predictor of the occurrence of neurological complications. Opportunistic infections such as TBM and Cryptococcal meningitis were most commonly observed.

Prevention of vertical transmission of hepatitis B: A retrospective review of a 5-year maternal-infant cohort in London.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 3.5% of the population live with hepatitis B virus (HBV); migrants to Europe are disproportionately affected. UK birth dose HBV vaccination is limited to infants born to those living with HBV (LWHBV). High-risk infants (high maternal infectivity, low birthweight) also receive HBV immunoglobulin (HBIG). The Family Hepatitis Clinic follows infants and those LWHBV working towards WHO goals of combating viral hepatitis by 2030. A trust-wide electronic note review of outcomes for infants born to those LWHBV (2016-2020). Two hundred and eighty-three infants, 134 (47%) females, born to those LWHBV were referred. Two hundred and thirty-one (82%) attended follow-up with a vertical transmission rate of 0%. Twenty (7%) individuals LWHBV received tenofovir disoproxil fumerate in pregnancy; median viral load (VL) at initiation 125 416 376 DNA IU/mL, one having birth VL. Twenty-eight (10%) infants were stratified as high risk and all received HBIG and birth dose vaccination with 9 (32%) subsequently lost to follow-up, compared to 48 (19%) low-risk infants. 267/283 (94%) had birth dose vaccination documented and 206/283 (73%) received at least four vaccine doses. 215/283 (76%) infants had serology by 24 months; 17 (6%) with suboptimal vaccine responses: hepatitis B surface antibody <100 IU/mL. Serology before 18 months resulted in higher rates of maternal hepatitis B core antibody detection (15% vs. 3%). Prevention of vertical transmission of HBV was universal in those attending, although high-risk infants were more likely lost to follow up. HBV post-vaccine serological protection was comparable with national data from 2021 (77% >4 doses, 77% HBsAb >100).

Advancing Vaccine Strategies for Combatting Placental Malaria: A Path to Effective Implementation

Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to malaria infection, especially during their first and second pregnancy, despite pre-existing immunity to malaria acquired during childhood. When the parasite-infected red blood cells sequester in the intervillous spaces of the placenta, it leads to various adverse pregnancy outcomes such as maternal anaemia, hypertensive disorders in pregnancy, premature delivery, and infant low birth weight (LBW), which are associated with a higher risk of maternal and foetal/neonate mortality. Anaemia, undernutrition, and HIV infection increase the risk of malaria-associated adverse pregnancy outcomes. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that in 2022, there were approximately 35.4 million pregnancies in the WHO African region of which 36% were exposed to malaria infection, with an estimated 393,000 neonates with low birthweight as a result.

Barriers and Unmet Educational Needs Regarding Implementation of Medication Adherence Management Across Europe: Insights from COST Action ENABLE

Abstract Background Medication adherence is essential for the achievement of therapeutic goals. Yet, the World Health Organization estimates that 50% of patients are nonadherent to medication and this has been associated with 125 billion euros and 200,000 deaths in Europe annually. Objective This study aimed to unravel barriers and unmet training needs regarding medication adherence management across Europe. Design A cross-sectional study was conducted through an online survey. The final survey contained 19 close-ended questions. Participants The survey content was informed by 140 global medication adherence experts from clinical, academic, governmental, and patient associations. The final survey targeted healthcare professionals (HCPs) across 39 European countries. Main Measures Our measures were barriers and unmet training needs for the management of medication adherence across Europe. Key Results In total, 2875 HCPs (pharmacists, 40%; physicians, 37%; nurses, 17%) from 37 countries participated. The largest barriers to adequate medication adherence management were lack of patient awareness (66%), lack of HCP time (44%), lack of electronic solutions (e.g., access to integrated databases and uniformity of data available) (42%), and lack of collaboration and communication between HCPs (41%). Almost all HCPs pointed out the need for educational training on medication adherence management. Conclusions These findings highlight the importance of addressing medication adherence barriers at different levels, from patient awareness to health system technology and to fostering collaboration between HCPs. To optimize patient and economic outcomes from prescribed medication, prerequisites include adequate HCP training as well as further development of digital solutions and shared health data infrastructures across Europe.

Incorporating basic periodontal screening into antenatal care services provided in Rwanda: A policy brief

Background Preterm birth, which is child delivery before 37 weeks of pregnancy, is the primary cause of perinatal mortality worldwide. Preterm birth remains a major public health challenge in Rwanda, affecting approximately 13.8% of birth. The World Health Organization estimates that 15 million babies are born prematurely each year. While the association between periodontitis and preterm deliveries is increasingly recognized, little is known about this link in Rwanda. This policy brief aims to bridge this knowledge gap by presenting the findings of a recent study investigating the prevalence of periodontitis among pregnant women in Rwanda and its association with preterm deliveries. This policy brief also aims to inform and guide decision making towards incorporating periodontal screening into the antenatal care package in Rwanda. This has the potential to improve pregnancy outcomes and contribute to improved oral health in the future. Policy outcome and Implications Contemporary evidence has shown a six-fold increased risk of preterm delivery for women with periodontitis in Rwanda, with a concerningly high prevalence (60%) among pregnant women. Additionally, nurses working in antenatal clinics displayed insufficient knowledge about gum disease. Actionable recommendations The adoption of basic periodontal screening within existing antenatal care packages is recommended. This, coupled with nurse training and public awareness campaigns, can empower women and healthcare professionals to prioritize oral health for better pregnancy outcomes. Conclusions Integrating periodontal screening into antenatal care has the potential to significantly reduce preterm deliveries and contribute to a healthier future generation in Rwanda.

In Vitro Antibacterial Activity of Aloe Barbadensis Millar (Aloe Vera) Against Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolates in Khartoum State, Sudan

Background: It is becoming more widely acknowledged that Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) is a significant nosocomial pathogen that can cause serious infections. In general, new therapeutic approaches that prioritize the utilization of extracts and physiologically active chemicals extracted from herbal plants should be used to control P. aeruginosa infections. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that in underdeveloped countries, around 80% of the population mostly uses traditional medicine and plant extracts as their primary source of medicine to treat a variety of infectious diseases. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the in vitro antimicrobial activity of A. vera against P. aeruginosa isolated in Khartoum state hospitals. Materials and Methods: The present descriptive study was performed in Khartoum state. Between November 2022 and April 2023, a total of 100 clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa were obtained from patients hospitalized at Khartoum State hospitals. Standard microbiological techniques, such as the Gram stain, catalase test, and oxidase test, were used to identify the isolates. Ciprofloxacin, Ceftriaxone, Meropenem, and Gentamicin. A. vera gel were used in an antimicrobial susceptibility test against the P. aeruginosa strains. Results: Isolates of P. aeruginosa were collected from hospitalized individuals. Of the 100 isolates included in the study, 63 isolates (63%) had been isolated from males and 37 isolates (37%) had been isolated from females. Using the microdilution method, antimicrobial susceptibility testing for 100 P. aeruginosa clinical isolates was conducted for four antibiotics. The results showed that 38% of the isolates were resistant to ciprofloxacin, 94% to ceftriaxone, 82% to gentamicin, and 0% to meropenem. Conclusions: P. aeruginosa demonstrated multidrug resistance to a widely used antibiotic. A different therapeutic agent for the treatment of clinical multi-drug resistance bacteria may be employed in the ethanol extracts of Aloe vera since they have shown antibacterial efficacy against multi-drug resistant P. aeruginosa which is resistant to many drugs and may be treated with a combination of conventional antibacterial discs and the crude extract of Aloe vera. The study's findings validate the traditional wisdom that aloe vera plants may cure microbial infections and suggest that aloe vera may be used to make powerful new antibacterial compounds.

The Influence of Health Innovation Awareness on the Use of Skilled Birth Delivery Services: A Case Study of Kimilili SubCounty, Bungoma County, Kenya

The uptake of skilled birth delivery services (SBDs) is crucial for improving maternal and child health, as it significantly reduces maternal and child mortality rates (MCMR). Maternal morbidity and mortality profoundly impact mothers, babies, families, communities, and society at large. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that maternal and child deaths result in an annual loss of USD 15.5 billion in potential productivity globally. In Bungoma County, the rate of SBDs has risen to over 50% in the past eight years, except for 2017 when it dropped to 46% due to a prolonged health workers' strike. However, there has been uncertainty regarding the sustainability of these high SBD rates after the cessation of specific health programs.This study aimed to describe and analyze how awareness of health innovations influences the use of skilled birth delivery services in Kimilili Sub County, Bungoma County. Utilizing a cross-sectional descriptive quantitative analytical design, the study employed both probability and non-probability sampling techniques to select participants. Descriptive statistics, including means and percentages, were used to summarize the data, while multiple regression analysis assessed the relationship among various innovations in increasing skilled birth delivery uptake. Findings indicated that awareness of health innovations, particularly those addressing financial aspects of delivery, significantly influences the uptake of skilled birth delivery (p=0.000). The study concluded that health innovations providing financial support for medical bills and emotional support throughout pregnancy strongly affect skilled delivery rates in Kimilili Sub County.

Functional Language in Children from a Public Cochlear Implant Program in a Developing Country.

Introduction The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that ∼ 32 million children worldwide are affected by hearing loss (HL). Cochlear implant is the first-line treatment for severe to profound sensorineural HL. It is considered one of the most successful prostheses developed to date. Objective To evaluate the oral language development of pediatric patients with prelingual deafness implanted in a reference hospital for the treatment of HL in southern Brazil. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study with a review of medical records of patients undergoing cochlear implant surgery between January 2009 and December 2018. Language development was assessed by reviewing consultations with speech therapy professionals from the cochlear implant group. Results A total of 152 children were included in the study. The mean age at cochlear implant surgery was of 41 months (standard deviation [SD]: ± 15). The patients were divided into six groups considering the type of language most used in their daily lives. We found that 36% of children use oral language as their primary form of communication. In a subanalysis, we observed that patients with developed or developing oral language had undergone cochlear implant surgery earlier than patients using Brazilian Sign Language (Língua Brasileira de Sinais, LIBRAS, in Portuguese) or those without developed language. Conclusion The cochlear implant is a state-of-the-art technology that enables the re-establishment of the sense of hearing and the development of oral language. However, language development is a complex process known to present a critical period to properly occur. We still see many patients receiving late diagnosis and treatment, which implies a delay and, often, the impossibility of developing oral communication. Level of Evidence Level 3 (cohort study).

Rapid survey for assessing effective cataract surgical coverage (eCSC) and effective refractive error coverage (eREC)-Novel indicators of universal eye health.

As per the recent World Health Organization estimates, approximately 2.2 billion people have near and distance vision impairment (VI) globally, and out of this almost 50% is avoidable. The Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Visual Impairment survey was a cross-sectional study conducted in September 2021, using cluster random sampling in 42 clusters with a cluster size of 140, giving a total of 6000 participants. Two teams comprising of trained optometrists and social workers conducted the ocular examination which included unaided, pinhole, and aided visual acuity assessments followed by examination of the anterior segment and lens. Distance visual acuity was measured using simplified tumbling "E" charts of different sizes for VA of 6/12, 6/18, and 6/60. The lens assessment was done in an un-dilated pupil with torch light by the optometrist. Overall, 6520 individuals aged 6 years and above were enumerated, of whom 5440 (83.4%) were examined. The response rate for examination was better among females (93.1%) than males (73.9%), and it decreased from 93.8% in the age group 6-15 years to 77.1% in the 45+ age group. The prevalence of blindness and VI were 0.18% (95% CI: 0.06-0.29) and 4.19% (95%CI: 3.65-4.72), respectively. The major causes of VI in all age groups were uncorrected refractive error (65.4%), cataract (23.7%), cataract surgical complications (2.6%), corneal opacity (0.4%), and other posterior segment diseases (7.5%). The effective cataract surgical coverage (eCSC) was 61.8%, effective refractive error coverage (eREC) for distance vision was 59.8%, and eREC for near vision was 47.0%. The RAAVI methodology is suitable to measure effective coverage in the general population, both for baseline measurement and periodic monitoring. The 2030 targets for the surveyed district are 90% eCSC and 100% eREC. Such exercises need to be conducted in each district of the country to determine the baseline and target values of effective coverage.

Genetics of Hypertension: From Monogenic Analysis to GETomics.

Arterial hypertension is the most frequent cardiovascular risk factor all over the world, and it is one of the leading drivers of the risk of cardiovascular events and death. It is a complex trait influenced by heritable and environmental factors. To date, the World Health Organization estimates that 1.28 billion adults aged 30-79 years worldwide have arterial hypertension (defined by European guidelines as office systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 mmHg or office diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mmHg), and 7.1 million die from this disease. The molecular genetic basis of primary arterial hypertension is the subject of intense research and has recently yielded remarkable progress. In this review, we will discuss the genetics of arterial hypertension. Recent studies have identified over 900 independent loci associated with blood pressure regulation across the genome. Comprehending these mechanisms not only could shed light on the pathogenesis of the disease but also hold the potential for assessing the risk of developing arterial hypertension in the future. In addition, these findings may pave the way for novel drug development and personalized therapeutic strategies.

A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY ON MALIGNANT TERTIAN MALARIA AMONG CHILDREN BELOW FIVE YEARS ATTENDING THE OUTPATIENT DEPARTMENT LABORATORY AT JINJA REGIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL.

Background: World Health Organisation estimates that 229 million new cases of Malignant Tertian Malaria in 2019 in the world. 3.3 billion people in tropical regions and Uganda there is still a high mortality rate, especially in children below five years. Purpose of the study: The study was to determine the prevalence of Malignant Tertian Malaria among children below five years at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was used and data was obtained from 146 respondents using an interviewer-administered questionnaire diagnosed, described, analyzed, and presented information on tables and figures using Microsoft Excel. Results: The prevalence of MTM was 48.6% among children below five years. The most common socio-economic factor was household structure with a prevalence of 56.33% and 43.66% for respondents who were staying in completed houses and those whose houses were not in good condition respectively. The knowledge of caretakers about MTM was inadequate most caretakers knew about MTM with a prevalence of 63.38%. Conclusion: Although interventions for the management of MTM were in place, a prevalence of 48.6% was still high and demands for additional efforts from the health workers and the Ministry of Health to lower the heavy disease burden. Recommendation: The health workers should offer health education about MTM to the patients attending the hospital and emphasis on early diagnosis and treatment of MTM infections should be prioritized.

Isolation and Purification Glycyrrhizic acid and Determination of the Biological Activate Against Microbial Pathogens

Background: The World Health Organization estimates that 80% of the world's population uses plant extracts or their active components in traditional therapies. Recently, there has been a lot of interest in the quest for new antioxidant and antibacterial plant-based medications. Additionally, Glycyrrhiza glabra is a popular food flavoring and sweetening ingredient.Methods: This work was to isolate and purify licorice root's glycyrrhizin acid (GA) and investigate its antimicrobial properties against S. aureus and K. pneumoniae were isolated from urine , blood, wounds, ear water, sewage, soil, and water, totaling 12 isolates of each kind, Analytical method for the measurement of Glycyrrhizic acid from the root extract that has been suitably supported by a mass spectroscopic analysis.Results: The result showed the effects of GA with different concentrations on S. aureus and. K. pneumoniae. Obviously, the MIC range value was in concentration between 18.75 to 37.5 % for S. aureus isolates, and 4.68 to 75 for K. pneumoniae isolates. The result indicated that GA reduced the metabolic activity of cells in biofilm on S. aureus and K. pneumoniae with an inhibition percentageConclusion: GA may have an effect on cell membrane permeability, biofilm formation, and efflux activity, which inhibits bacterial growth.Keywords: Glycyrrhizin acid; Staphylococcus aureus; Klebsiella pneumoniae; Antibiotic; Biofilm

Herpes Simplex Keratitis after PRK

Background: Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a double stranded DNA virus that infects much of the world’s population. The World Health Organization estimates 67% of people under the age of 50 have HSV-1 and 11% of people under the age of 50 have HSV-2. While most systemic infections remain inactive and do not cause symptoms, the activation and appearance of ocular HSV can be a destructive and vision-threatening issue. HSV keratitis can be epithelial, stromal or a combination. Patients who have recently undergone photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) have a higher risk of HSV keratitis. Because of this, HSV keratitis should be considered in any PRK post-op patient that presents with unusual signs and symptoms such as decreased vision, increased IOPs, ocular pain, photophobia, iritis and corneal haze. When diagnosed in a timely manner, the prognosis is generally favorable. Current treatments for HSV keratitis include antiviral coverage as well as immunosuppression with topical steroids. Case Report: This case involves a patient that developed HSV keratitis while on topical steroid therapy following PRK. The weeks following the initial presentation were spent battling corneal haze, iritis, pain, increased IOPs and decreased visual acuity. After close monitoring and treatment changes based on each clinical presentation, the patient recovered with good vision and minimal corneal scarring. The findings and recommended treatment options are discussed. Conclusion: HSV affects much of the world’s population. Reactivation of the latent virus can lead to vision threatening corneal disease. HSV is capable of causing inflammation and pathology throughout most of the anterior segment of the eye, and therefore should be considered when managing any new or recalcitrant anterior pathology. Although the diagnosis is usually clinical, laboratory testing can be used to confirm a diagnosis. Treatment aims to decrease the viral load and to limit stromal scarring.

Herpes Simplex Keratitis after PRK

Background: Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a double stranded DNA virus that infects much of the world’s population. The World Health Organization estimates 67% of people under the age of 50 have HSV-1 and 11% of people under the age of 50 have HSV-2. While most systemic infections remain inactive and do not cause symptoms, the activation and appearance of ocular HSV can be a destructive and vision-threatening issue. HSV keratitis can be epithelial, stromal or a combination. Patients who have recently undergone photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) have a higher risk of HSV keratitis. Because of this, HSV keratitis should be considered in any PRK post-op patient that presents with unusual signs and symptoms such as decreased vision, increased IOPs, ocular pain, photophobia, iritis and corneal haze. When diagnosed in a timely manner, the prognosis is generally favorable. Current treatments for HSV keratitis include antiviral coverage as well as immunosuppression with topical steroids. Case Report: This case involves a patient that developed HSV keratitis while on topical steroid therapy following PRK. The weeks following the initial presentation were spent battling corneal haze, iritis, pain, increased IOPs and decreased visual acuity. After close monitoring and treatment changes based on each clinical presentation, the patient recovered with good vision and minimal corneal scarring. The findings and recommended treatment options are discussed. Conclusion: HSV affects much of the world’s population. Reactivation of the latent virus can lead to vision threatening corneal disease. HSV is capable of causing inflammation and pathology throughout most of the anterior segment of the eye, and therefore should be considered when managing any new or recalcitrant anterior pathology. Although the diagnosis is usually clinical, laboratory testing can be used to confirm a diagnosis. Treatment aims to decrease the viral load and to limit stromal scarring.

Insights into the Shifting Dynamics of Climate Change and Human Health in N.E. India: A Rapid Review

Climate change is the greatest existential challenge to planetary and human health and is dictated by a shift in the Earth’s weather and air conditions owing to anthropogenic activity. The interactions between climate change and health outcomes are diverse and complex and include several exposure pathways that might promote the development of non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, etc. The World Health Organization estimates that the warming and precipitation trends due to anthropogenic climate change of the past 30 years already claim over 150,000 lives annually. Climate change and human health are interconnected through a direct and indirect pathway. The increase in high temperatures due to climate change has a tremendous impact on human hydration levels and can cause heat stress in diabetics with cardiovascular complications leading to strokes. It is difficult to disregard the harmful impact of heat waves on the geriatric population all over the world, due to varied physiological conditions related to socioeconomic level. Exposure to high temperature prompts significant stress and strain on the thermoregulatory responses to heat stress in CVD. Studies reported that environmental effects from climate change have negative impacts on metabolic control, glucometer availability, insulin pumps, and medication gradually threatening the health, well-being, economy, and environment of the world. Reviewing the interconnections between the expanding climatic variability in climate change and human health it seems the growing risk factors are enormous and have tremendously fueled global health disparities.

Frequency and risk factors of cigarette smoking among male medical students of Bacha Khan Medical College, Mardan

Tobacco consumption is a major global health issue that contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality rates. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over five million deaths occur each year due to tobacco use, projected to rise to 8 million by 2030. Furthermore, current research reveals that 47% of males and 12% of females worldwide smoke. Of particular concern is cigarette and tobacco use among medical students, given their role in crafting public health policy and guiding society's tobacco prevention measures. Studies show that smoking rates among medical students in developing countries are between 16-21%, with multi-country surveys in countries like Malaysia, India, Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh indicating rates between 6.7% and 17.8%. For example, a study conducted on medical students in Damascus University Faculty of Medicine revealed a 10.9% prevalence of cigarette smoking, 23.5% for water pipe, and 7.3% for both, with higher rates reported among final-year students. Likewise, a study of Rawalpindi Medical College students found that 24% had smoked at least once, with greater prevalence among hostellites rather than day scholar students.

Behavioral prevention of HBV transmission in urban communities toward global elimination of hepatitis in 2030: a systematic review

Hepatitis B is a serious threat to public health on a global scale. The Hepatitis B virus (HBV), which spreads both vertically and horizontally, is easily contracted by anyone. In 2020, the World Health Organization estimates that 257 million people worldwide have hepatitis B, and 900,000 people die from it each year. According to the World Health Organization (2021), there are approximately 39.4 million people in Southeast Asia living with chronic hepatitis B mortality, with 410,000 deaths caused by the disease. HBV can spread through injections, horizontal transmission, blood transfusions, and organ transplants. Cochrane, Science Direct, PubMed, Elsevier, Sage, Willey, DOAJ, and Google Scholar database sources were used to search for supported research on how to prevent hepatitis virus transmission in urban communities. 15 publications address the primary and secondary prevention of hepatitis B transmission in urban settings. Prevention keeps a person in good health and prevents them from progressing to a later, worse stage. Given that the hepatitis B virus can infect anyone, regardless of age, and that it affects people's health worldwide, as well as their families, communities, and families within them. In order to eradicate the hepatitis B virus, society must be aware of the importance of implementing preventive measures on a continuous and long-term basis through health advocacy activities, hepatitis B virus screening campaigns, health education, counseling, hepatitis B vaccination with community-based activities, and secondary prevention through combination therapy treatment in post-liver transplant patients.