ABSTRACT
Determine the effect of PUFA supplementation on patients diagnosed with hypertension and are on treatment with antihypertensive drugs. To identify if the response to PUFA differs according to gender and duration of hypertension. To determine the effect of coexisting morbidities like diabetes and dyslipidemia on the hypertensive patients response to PUFA. This observational study was conducted at the GMCH and RC during the period Jan 2012-Dec 2012. A total of 100 hypertensive patients on treatment, 50 of whom were taking n-3PUFA supplements along with their antihypertensive medications, were followed up for a period of 3 months. Comparisons were drawn between the BP recordings at the time of enrolment in the study and their follow up values 3 months after enrollment. Data analysis was done per protocol, excluding data from the drop out patients. There was a significant reduction in both the systolic and diastolic blood pressures after 3 months of n-3 PUFA therapy [mean reduction systolic 9.7 mmHg; diastolic 4.7 mm Hg]. Males showed significant improvement in BP [systolic] compared to females. The BP of non- diabetic participants' improved significantly with PUFA therapy. The antihypertensive effect of PUFA supplement was more marked in patients with long standing hypertension. Supplementation with omega- 3 PUFA causes a reduction in blood pressure in hypertensive patients
ABSTRACT
Improper use of computers results in a variety of health disorders. Hence the knowledge of computer ergonomics is essential while using computers. Nevertheless, there is not much documented evidence about the relationship between knowledge and actual practice of ergonomic principles among today's students. The aim of this study was to investigate the awareness and practice of computer ergonomics among university students in Ajman. The attitude of the students towards formal training on ergonomics was also assessed. A total of 389 students studying in Gulf Medical University, Ajman and Ajman University of Science and Technology participated in the study. A pre-tested and content validated self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Only 44% of the population surveyed was aware of computer ergonomics. The students who had read documents on ergonomics put the principles into practice when compared to those who had attended formal training sessions. There is a need to increase the awareness of ergonomics among university students. The results of the study indicate that though attendees of previous training workshops show positive attitude towards further training sessions, they do not put the principles learned into practice. In contrast, the students who have read documents put their learning into practice better, but do not show a positive attitude towards formal training sessions. Hence, it becomes important to determine the most effective ergonomic strategy in improving the students' knowledge and practice of computer ergonomics