ABSTRACT
Background: Cervical cancer is the second leading cause of death in india. it is also one of the few malignancies where an infectious etiological agent human papilloma virus (HPV) has been identified. With the advent of HPV vaccination, it is possible to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with carcinoma cervix. But biggest hurdle to achieve this is the lack of awareness about the availability and use of HPV vaccine. This study was conducted to know knowledge and awareness of HPV infection and vaccination among medical and paramedical students. We also evaluated the acceptability and coverage of HPV vaccine among these students.Methods: This study was conducted among a total of 520 female students of the Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara University with the help of a questionnaire. The study group included 207 MBBS students, 167 BDS students, 89 nursing students and 57 physiotherapy students.Results: Most of the students were in 18-20 years’ age group. Nearly 40.57% of the students knew that HPV is sexually transmitted and 29.80% were aware that this infection can be prevented. Availability of HPV vaccine was known to 75% of the students and the main source of their information was through their college teachings. Nearly 43.75% of the students knew HPV vaccine protects against cervical cancer and 26.73% of the students were vaccinated. Overall knowledge and awareness were better among medical students.Conclusions: A lot of work needs to be done so as to make the target population accept HPV vaccine. There is a great difference between awareness of availability of the vaccine and its use. This emphasizes the need for health care professionals to take special interest in promoting this vaccine in the general population.
ABSTRACT
Background: Hysterectomy is one of the most common gynecological surgeries performed around the world. This study was done to review the data of all patients who underwent TLH. With this study a uniform method of performing TLH by a single surgeon was assessed.Methods: A 5 years retrospective study was performed at Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara College of Medical Sciences and Hospital Dharwad, Karnataka India. Demographic data, pre-operative findings, indication for surgery, intra-operative and post-operative complications, duration of surgery were recorded and analyzed.Results: A total of 118 women were included in the study. Mean age of the patients wasMost common indication for the surgery was leiomyoma. Mean operating time was 162.18 minutes. Mean weight of the post-operative specimen was 208.45 grams. Intra-operative urinary bladder injury was seen in 1 patient. Conversion to laparotomy was needed in 2 patients.Conclusions: With improving experience TLH can be performed safely without complications. As number of surgeries done increases duration of TLH reduces. TLH can be effectively used to avoid laparotomy.
ABSTRACT
Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene mutations have been implicated as risk factors for neural tube defects (NTDs). The best-characterized MTHFR genetic mutation 677C→T is associated with a 2–4 fold increased risk of NTD if patient is homozygous for this mutation. This risk factor is modulated by folate levels in the body. A second mutation in the MTHFR gene is an A→C transition at position 1298. The 1298A→C mutation is also a risk factor for NTD, but with a smaller relative risk than 677C→T mutation. Under conditions of low folate intake or high folate requirements, such as pregnancy, this mutation could become of clinical importance. We present a case report with MTHFR genetic mutation, who presented with recurrent familial pregnancy losses due to anencephaly/NTDs.