Effect of various educational methods on increasing parents' awareness of their children's preventive orthodontic treatments

Aim: Like other fields of health, the main focus in dentistry has shifted from treatment to prevention of diseases. Parents have a vital role in deciding about their children's oral health issues. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of four educational methods (including printed pamphlets, digital pamphlets, faceto-face education, and educational films) in increasing the awareness of parents about preventive orthodontic treatments. Methods: The study samples were selected from patients who were referred to the Pediatric Dentistry Department. 150 parents of children between 4-12 years old participated in the study. They filled out a questionnaire including demographic data and knowledge about orthodontic problems and their early treatments. Then they were divided into five groups (control, printed pamphlet, digital pamphlet, face-to-face, educational films) and after one month they repeated the test. Results: A total of 102 fathers and 48 mothers were evaluated. There was no statistical difference between different ages, sex, or income in terms of their awareness, but the awareness score between educational groups was different. There has been observed a significant increase in the awareness level of all four groups (except the control group) (P < 0.05). The highest score was seen in the video group. The difference between printed pamphlets and digital pamphlets was not significant. Conclusions: The results indicate that educational films are the most effective way of increasing awareness about preventive orthodontic treatments

A Community Survey on Association of Sociodemographic Characteristics with Risk Perception and Awareness about Oral Cancer in Lagos, Nigeria

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the level of oral cancer awareness and risk factors perception and the relationship between this awareness and the sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics. Material and Methods: This descriptive study was conducted among rural and urban residents in Lagos State, Nigeria. A multi-stage random sampling method was utilized. The sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics of respondents, as well as their knowledge about oral cancer risk factors, were assessed with a validated questionnaire. The bivariate association was done using an independent t-test and one-way ANOVA. Multivariate regression was used to determine the association between predictor variables and oral cancer knowledge scores. The statistical significance level is set at p<0.05. Results: 590 participants between 18 and 82 years (mean age 34.5 ±13.7) completed the survey. The prevalence of cigarette smoking was 25.7%, of which 16 (1.5%) were heavy smokers (20+ cigarettes per day). The prevalence of alcohol consumption was 66.1%, with 57 (9.7%) being heavy drinkers, consuming drinks for 5-7 days of the week. A high proportion of the respondents (>60%) exhibited gaps in their knowledge of oral cancer. Uneducated participants had lower oral cancer knowledge than those with >12 years of formal education (aOR = 5.347; 95% CI: 4.987-6.240). Participants who were smokers had lower oral cancer knowledge compared with non-smokers (aOR = 3.341; 95% CI: 2.147-4.783); Participants who consumed alcohol had more deficient oral cancer knowledge compared with non-drinkers (aOR = 1.699; 95% CI: 1.087-2.655); While heavy smokers aOR = 4.023; 95% CI: 3.615-4.825) and heavy drinkers aOR = 4.331; 95% CI: 3.158-5.939) had lower oral cancer knowledge compared with those who did not abuse both substances. Conclusion: A high proportion of the respondents exhibited gaps in their knowledge of oral cancer in their responses. Delayed diagnosis of oral cancer can be reduced by increasing the awareness and knowledge of the populace about risk factors and also in the recognition of its signs and symptoms.

Awareness of stroke among patients with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Stroke is a major cause of mortality worldwide. Renal dysfunction is an important risk factor for stroke. Brazilian studies on stroke knowledge are generally population based. Studies stratifying stroke knowledge according to comorbidities are rare. Scientific data are essential to guide the awareness of stroke. OBJECTIVE: To assess stroke knowledge in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on hemodialysis. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional analytical study of patients with CKD on hemodialysis in north-eastern Brazil. METHODS: A self-administered questionnaire survey on stroke awareness was administered to patients with CKD on hemodialysis between April and November 2022. The chi-square test and other descriptive statistics were used. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed using logistic regression. RESULTS: A total of 197 patients were included in the analysis. The Brazilian acronym for stroke was used by 53.5% of the participants. Less than 10.0% of the sample showed optimal decision-making ability regarding stroke. Of the participants, 29.9% knew at least one risk factor and one symptom; however, this was considered as having below the minimum capacity because they did not know the emergency service call number. In the analysis adjusted for income and education, females (odds ratio [OR], 0.40%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.20-0.82), older patients (OR, 0.24%; 95% CI, 0.09-0.63) and having at most one comorbidity (OR, 0.48%; 95% CI, 0.23-0.98) were factors for lower levels of knowledge or ideal decision-making capacity against stroke. CONCLUSIONS: Patients on hemodialysis, especially women and older people, have little knowledge about stroke.

Knowledge and awareness of hepatitis B amongst students of Pamo University of Medical Sciences (PUMS), Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Background: Globally, 296 million people were infected by hepatitis B in 2019, with 1.1 million deaths. Africa is one of the endemic regions. Good knowledge and awareness of hepatitis B remain pivotal to the biosafety of medical students. This study sought to determine the levels of knowledge and awareness of hepatitis B among students of Pamo University of Medical Sciences (PUMS), Port Harcourt, Nigeria, and the predicting factors associated with this knowledge and awareness. The is with the aim of providing recommendations for improving and sustaining biosafety levels for medical and other health-related students of the University. Methodology: The study was a descriptive cross-sectional design conducted amongst 528 randomly selected medical students of PUMS, Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Structured questionnaires were interviewer-administered to collect socio-demographic information and participants' responses to questions on knowledge and awareness of hepatitis B. Data were analysed using SPSS version 26.0 and relationships of socio-demographic characteristics and predictive factors with knowledge and awareness of hepatitis B were tested using binary logistic regression analysis with p value for statistical significance set at <0.05. Results: A total of 528 students participated in the study, 202 (38.3%) males and 326 (61.7%) females. Most participants (296, 56.1%) were between 15-19 years of age with mean age of 19 ±2.43 years. The mean (±SD) of participants responses with good knowledge of hepatitis B was 249±121.5 while for good awareness, it was 181±88.3. The percentage average for good knowledge and good awareness was 47.2% and 34.2% respectively, with positive correlation between knowledge and awareness of hepatitis B (r=0.720, p<0.0001). Age was significantly associated with participants percentage average knowledge (OR=0.77, 95% CI 0.70-0.84, p<0.0001) and awareness of hepatitis B (OR=0.84, 95%CI 0.78-0.90, p=0.004). No other factor was significantly associated with knowledge and awareness of hepatitis B except Ijaw tribe (OR=0.4, 95%CI 0.24-0.66, p=0.034) and attendance of Federal Government College (OR=0.4, 95% CI 0.24-0.68, p=0.046). Conclusion: The percentage average good knowledge of 47.2% and awareness of 34.2% for hepatitis B in this study are low, although most participants in the study were between the ages of 15-19 years and in their first and second year of study. This gives room for improvement in knowledge and awareness of hepatitis B with progression in age and year of training. Good knowledge and awareness of hepatitis B are central to the biosafety of medical students. It is recommended that the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) review the current medical school curriculum to increase the teaching of medical and health-related students that will impact more on knowledge and awareness of infectious diseases and infection prevention and control.

Prognostic awareness and prognostic information preferences among advanced cancer patients in Kenya

Background: Cancer is the third leading cause of death in Kenya. Yet, little is known about prognostic awareness and preferences for prognostic information. Aim: To assess the prevalence of prognostic awareness and preference for prognostic information among advanced cancer patients in Kenya. Setting: Outpatient medical oncology and palliative care clinics and inpatient medical and surgical wards of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret, Kenya. Methods: The authors surveyed 207 adults with advanced solid cancers. The survey comprised validated measures developed for a multi-site study of end-of-life care in advanced cancer patients. Outcome variables included prognostic awareness and preference for prognostic information. Results: More than one-third of participants (36%) were unaware of their prognosis and most (67%) preferred not to receive prognostic information. Increased age (OR = 1.04, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.07) and education level (OR: 1.18, CI: 1.08, 1.30) were associated with a higher likelihood of preference to receive prognostic information, while increased symptom burden (OR= 0.94, CI: 0.90, 0.99) and higher perceived household income levels (lower-middle vs low: OR= 0.19; CI: 0.09, 0.44; and upper middle- or high vs low: OR= 0.22, CI: 0.09, 0.56) were associated with lower odds of preferring prognostic information. Conclusion: Results reveal low levels of prognostic awareness and little interest in receiving prognostic information among advanced cancer patients in Kenya. Contribution: Given the important role of prognostic awareness in providing patient-centred care, efforts to educate patients in Kenya on the value of this information should be a priority, especially among younger patients.

Conhecimento dos profissionais da saúde de um hospital público em relação à afasia / Knowledge on aphasia held by health professionals of a public hospital / Conocimiento de los profesionales sanitarios de un hospital público sobre la afasia

Introdução: A compreensão da afasia é fundamental para os profissionais de saúde que prestam assistência a pacientes com AVC. No entanto, a informação disponível sobre a afasia ainda é limitada e insuficiente para uma abordagem eficaz. É de suma importância identificar o conhecimento dos profissionais de saúde a respeito da afasia, a fim de planejar o atendimento aos pacientes e suas famílias.Objetivo: Avaliar o nível de conhecimento dos profissionais de saúde de um hospital público em relação à afasia e analisar como eles lidam com pacientes com afasia durante o período de hospitalização. Método: Realizamos uma pesquisa com profissionais de saúde por meio de um questionário online para avaliar seu conhecimento sobre a afasia e suas estratégias de atendimento. Resultados: Os resultados indicam que profissionais de saúde com níveis de educação mais elevados tendem a possuir um entendimento mais sólido da afasia. No entanto, persistem lacunas de conhecimento em diversos aspectos da afasia. Embora a maioria dos profissionais se sinta adequadamente preparado para lidar com pacientes com afasia, eles reconhecem os desafios envolvidos e expressam o desejo de receber orientações para aprimorar suas habilidades de comunicação. Conclusão: Este estudo ressalta a necessidade de uma formação mais abrangente para os profissionais de saúde no que diz respeito à afasia e suas estratégias de comunicação. É fundamental o desenvolvimento de programas de treinamento e a elaboração de diretrizes específicas para os profissionais que atuam com esses pacientes, visando proporcionar um atendimento de alta qualidade. (AU)

Introduction: Understanding aphasia is crucial for healthcare professionals providing care to stroke patients. However, there is a need to enhance and refine the information available about aphasia for practical application. It is imperative to assess the knowledge of healthcare professionals regarding aphasia to facilitate effective care planning for patients and their families. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the level of knowledge among healthcare professionals in a public hospital concerning aphasia and their approach to patients with aphasia during their hospitalization. Method: An online questionnaire was administered to healthcare professionals to assess their understanding of aphasia and their caregiving strategies. Results: The findings indicate that healthcare professionals with higher education levels tend to have a better understanding of aphasia. Nevertheless, knowledge gaps persist in various aspects of aphasia. While most professionals feel adequately prepared to interact with patients experiencing aphasia, they acknowledge the challenges involved and express a desire for guidance to enhance their communication skills. Conclusion: This study underscores the necessity for comprehensive training of healthcare professionals in the realm of aphasia and effective communication strategies. The development of training programs and guidelines is crucial to better serve patients with aphasia, ensuring the provision of high-quality care. (AU)

Introducción: La comprensión de la afasia es importante para los profesionales de la salud que atienden a pacientes con ACV. Sin embargo, la información sobre la afasia sigue siendo limitada e insuficiente para un enfoque efectivo. Es importante identificar el conocimiento de los profesionales de la salud sobre la afasia para planificar la atención a los pacientes y sus familias. Objetivo: Evaluar el conocimiento de los profesionales de la salud de un hospital público sobre la afasia y cómo manejan a los pacientes con afasia durante el período de hospitalización. Método: Se realizó una encuesta a profesionales de la salud a través de un cuestionario en línea para evaluar su conocimiento sobre la afasia y sus tácticas de atención. Resultados: Se señala un mayor conocimiento sobre la afasia entre los profesionales de nivel superior, pero aún existen lagunas de conocimiento en varios aspectos de la afasia. La mayoría de los profesionales se sienten preparados para manejar a pacientes con afasia, pero reconocen que la atención es desafiante y les gustaría recibir orientación para mejorar sus habilidades de comunicación. Conclusión:Este estudio destaca la necesidad de una formación más amplia y completa para los profesionales de la salud sobre la afasia y su comunicación. Es fundamental desarrollar programas de capacitación y guías para atender mejor a estos pacientes y garantizar una atención de calidad. (AU)

Prevalence, awareness, treatment, control and correlates of prevalence and control of hypertension among older adults in Kerala: A mixed methods study

Introduction: We conducted this study among older adults with the following objectives: (1) To find out the prevalence, awareness, treatment and control of hypertension, (2) To understand the factors associated with hypertension prevalence and control. Methods: A mixed-methods study employing a sequential explanatory design was conducted with a survey of 300 participants aged _x0001_60 years, and 15 in-depth interviews. Blood Pressure (BP) and waist circumference were measured using standard protocol. Survey data were analysed using univariate and multivariate procedures. In-depth interviews were analysed employing thematic analysis. Results: Hypertension prevalence was 72.3% (95% CI ¼ 67.1e77.2), 68.2% (CI ¼ 61.8e74.2) were aware, 65.4% (CI ¼ 59.0e71.6) were treated and 24% (CI ¼ 18.6e29.9) achieved adequate control. Inadequate physical activity [(adjusted odds ratio (AOR)] ¼ 2.34; CI ¼ 1.19e4.59), current alcohol use (AOR ¼ 2.28; CI ¼ 1.06e4.91) and self-reported diabetes (AOR ¼ 2.02; CI ¼ 1.15e3.52) were associated with hypertension prevalence. Those who reported diabetes (AOR ¼ 2.72, CI ¼ 1.34e5.55), with education level up to high school (AOR ¼ 2.58, CI ¼ 1.11e6.00) and who were in the age group 60e70 years (AOR ¼ 2.14, CI ¼ 1.09e4.20) were more likely to have controlled hypertension compared to their counterparts. From the in-depth interviews it was found that availability and accessibility of services, family support, financial wellbeing, habits and beliefs and conducive environment played a role in hypertension diagnosis and management. Discussion: Prevalence of hypertension was high in this population along with poor control. Efforts are required to improve hypertension control focussing on older adults with low education and those who are aged 70 years and above

Awareness and recommendation of home blood pressure measurement among physicians in India: Results from Asia HBPM survey 2020

Background: Awareness of hypertension and blood pressure (BP) control rates are still low in India. Home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM) is recognized as a valuable tool to diagnose and support hypertension treatment including the prevention of cardiovascular diseases(CVD) and target organ damage. We explored the prevailing knowledge and current recommendation of HBPM in daily practice by physicians in India. Materials and methods: As part of Asia HBPM Survey 2020, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among healthcare providers from India between June 2020 to June 2021. The questionnaire consisted of 37 questions and sub-questions related to HBPM awareness and recommendations to patients. Results: A total of 832 physicians participated in the survey. Almost 83% were male, whereas age, specialty and workplace were well distributed. 31.3% of physicians instruct their patients to measure their BP before taking antihypertensive drugs, while around 30% of physicians gave no instructions. The reference value of hypertension diagnosis amongst the physicians was substantially low based on clinic BP (34.4%) and home BP (15.1%). Among physicians who manage hypertensive patients, nearly 88% recommend HBPM to their patients, however, only 34.9% of their patients own HBPM device and 30.4% of the patients measure their own BP at home. Conclusion: The survey reveals that HBPM instructions to the patients are either lacking or not well aligned with the local hypertension guidelines which may have led to the low HBPM use among patients. Clear and practical educational material and sessions are needed to improve the understanding of HBPM amongst physicians

Impact of Training Programs on Awareness and Practice of Lifestyle Modifications among Hypertensive Patients Attending Outpatient Clinic of the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria

Aim: This study sought to investigate the impact of training programs on hypertensive patients' awareness and practice of lifestyle modifications in out-patient clinics of the University College Hospital (UCH) Ibadan, Nigeria. Methodology: The study design was a cross-sectional survey conducted at the out-patient clinics of the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Nigeria. This setting was chosen due to the accessibility of hypertensive patients receiving regular care and follow-up. The sample size comprised 274 hypertensive patients attending the out-patient clinics for regular hypertension management. A simple random sampling method was employed to select study participants, ensuring a fair representation of the target population. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the participants and results were analysed using SPSS. Results: Findings indicate that the training programs greatly increased awareness of hypertension and lifestyle factors affecting hypertension for most participants (74.42%), with all participants recommending the programs. A significant majority of participants (95.74%) reported being on hypertension medication, while nearly all (99.22%) had received some form of training or counselling on lifestyle modification for hypertension management. Notably, all participants reported having made lifestyle changes following the training programs, with the majority rating the effectiveness of the programs as highly effective (57.36%). Further analysis indicated a statistically significant relationship between the effectiveness of the training programs and the participants' age, sex, educational level, and occupation. The most frequent lifestyle modification post-training was dietary changes, with 54.65% of participants reporting that they always engage in a healthy diet for hypertension management. However, the frequency of engagement in other lifestyle modifications, such as regular physical activity and weight management, was not as high. The majority of participants reported significant improvements in hypertension symptoms following the lifestyle modifications. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that targeted training programs can significantly enhance hypertensive patients' awareness and practice of beneficial lifestyle modifications, thus improving health outcomes. Further, the study underscores the need for such training programs to be tailored according to the age, sex, educational level, and occupation of the patients to maximize their impact.

A Study On Awareness Of Pradhan Mandri Jandhan Yojana In Erode District

Financial inclusion is an important factor for a country's development. Government is continuously taking some measures for financial inclusion, one among such measure is introduction of Pradhan Mandri Jan Dhan Yojan with so many useful features. Even though the Government is taking initiatives, the awareness of public on this scheme questionable. This study is an attempt to study the awareness of PMJDY in Erode District. The researcher has collected 110 samples using convenient sampling technique. The findings stated that, all the socio-economic variables are associated with awareness. Further certain segments are more aware of PMJDY than of others.When it comes to source of awareness, visual media is found to be more influential than others.

Knowledge and Awareness about Chair-Side Diagnostic Techniques for the Screening of Suspicious Oral Lesions among General Dental Practitioners - A Cross-Sectional Survey

Introduction: General dental practitioners (GDPs) play an important role in screening and early detection of oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD) and oral cancer. Aim: This survey aims to assess the knowledge and awareness of general dental practitioners about chairside diagnostic techniques for screening of inflammatory oral lesions, potentially malignant lesions and oral cancer. Materials and Methods: GDPs (n=125) were surveyed about their knowledge about chairside diagnostic techniques for early detection and screening of suspicious oral lesions. The interview was based on a pre-structured questionnaire containing 14 closed ended questions. Chi square test was used for evaluating the association of survey parameters. Result: 95.2% of dentists do diagnosis and management of suspicious oral lesions along with chief complaints. There is a strong association between the educational status of GDPs and their method for management of suspicious oral lesions (p=0.002). 84.5% of the postgraduate GDPs are aware of chemiluminescence methods than graduate level GDPs (p =0.0009). Majority of the graduate GDPs are unaware of VELScope(p=0.0009). Usage of all non-invasive techniques was found to be less among graduate GDPs (p=0.002). Conclusion: The overall awareness of the dentists involved in the study were good and postgraduate GDPs are more aware and practically ahead about the non-invasive diagnostic techniques than graduate GDPs.

Awareness, Perception, Attitude Regarding Covid-19 and Infection Control: Cross-Sectional Study among the Dentists of Saudi Arabia

Introduction: Millions of people have died as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic caused by Sars-CoV-2. To increase aware- ness and knowledge of Covid-19, numerous online resources have been made available, particularly those pertaining to the dental profession. The purpose of this study was to determine dental professionals’ knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes concerning Covid-19 in Saudi Arabia. We performed a study using a Google Docs questionnaire that was disseminated to 305 dentists practising in Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: The questionnaire was divided into four sections: dentists’ demographic and professional character- istics; dentists’ awareness of the incubation period, disease symptoms, mode of transmission, and infection control measures for preventing Covid-19; and dentists’ attitude toward treating patients with Covid-19. The questionnaire was completed by participants by selecting one response to each question. The descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data, which were expressed as frequencies and percentages. The chi-square test was used to examine the relationship between professional activity and knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes towards Covid-19. Results: A total of 305 dentists took part in the survey, which resulted in a cohort of 305 dentists. Dentists in Saudi Arabia were well-versed in the signs and symptoms of Covid-19 infection in dental clinics, as well as the methods of transmission, infection control measures, and preventative techniques. Dentist, on the other hand, demonstrated a reasonable understanding of the additional preventative measures that can be taken to protect dental employees and other patients from Covid-19. Conclusion: Saudi dentists have an acceptable level of knowledge and understanding of Covid-19. However, such advance- ments would benefit patient management throughout this pandemic. Due to the high risk of infection spreading and acquisition among dental workers or individuals due to the close contact with patients and the nature of dental treatment, it is critical for dentists to remain updated on current knowledge in this rapidly moving field. Dentists’ infection control expertise should be reinforced through continuous educational programs.

Knowledge about COVID-19 in the General Population of Mexico

An analytical observational study was conducted to investigate the association between knowledge of COVID-19 in the general population of Mexico and sociodemographic variables of interest. A total of 758 adults between 18 and 74 years old (M = 37.3 SD = 12.6), of which 88.9% had higher education and 33.2% were health care workers, participated in an online questionnaire assessing disease knowledge and the COVID-5 item Fear Scale, which was adapted by the research team. The proportion of individuals with high knowledge about COVID-19 was found to be 41.0%. Participants with higher education and healthcare professionals demonstrated higher knowledge scores in comparison to those with primary and secondary education, as well as non-healthcare professionals (PR=1.25, 95%CI 1.05-1.48). In conclusion, that people with higher education and healthcare workers exhibited better knowledge scores regarding the disease, while high knowledge about COVID-19 was only associated with being a health professional.

Se realizó un estudio observacional analítico con el objetivo de explorar la asociación entre el conocimiento que tiene la población general de México sobre COVID-19 y las variables sociodemográficas de interés. Un total de 758 adultos entre 18 y 74 años (M=37,3 DE=12,6), 88,9% con educación superior y 33,2% trabajadores de la salud, diligenciaron un cuestionario en línea sobre conocimientos la enfermedad y la Escala de Temor a COVID-5, adaptada por el equipo de investigación. La proporción de conocimientos altos sobre COVID-19 fue del 41,0%. Las personas con educación superior y los profesionales de la salud presentaron puntajes de conocimientos altos en comparación con los que tenían primaria y secundaria y con los que no pertenecían al gremio de la salud RP = 1,25 IC 95% (1,05 - 1,48). Se concluye que las personas con escolaridad superior y los profesionales de la salud tienen mejores puntajes de conocimientos sobre la enfermedad, mientras que el conocimiento alto sobre COVID-19 solo se asoció con ser profesional de la salud.

Foi realizado um estudo observacional analítico com o objetivo de explorar a associação entre o conhecimento que tem a população geral de México sobre COVID-19 e as variáveis sociodemográficas de interesse. Um total de 758 adultos entre 18 e 74 anos (M=37,3 DE=12,6), 88,9% com ensino superior e 33,2% trabalhadores da saúde, responderam um questionário on-line sobre conhecimentos a doença e a Escala de Temor a COVID-5, adaptada pela equipe de pesquisa. A proporção de conhecimentos altos sobre COVID-19 foi do 41,0%. As pessoas com educação superior e os profissionais da saúde apresentaram pontuação de conhecimentos altos em comparação com os que tinham ensino básico e ensino médio e com os que não pertenciam aos profissionais da saúde RP = 1,25 IC 95% (1,05 - 1,48). Concluise que as pessoas com educação superior e os profissionais da saúde têm melhor pontuação de conhecimentos sobre a doença, enquanto que o conhecimento alto sobre COVID-19 só se associou com ser professional da saúde.

Conocimientos sobre el ácido fólico periconcepcional en mujeres puérperas del hospital de la mujer, La Paz-Bolivia / Awareness of periconceptional folic acid in postpartum women at the hospital de la mujer, La Paz-Bolivia

INTRODUCCIÓN Y/O ANTECEDENTES: Los defectos del tubo neural se encuentran entre las anomalías congénitas más comunes en todo el mundo, el ácido fólico (0.4-0.8 ug/día) reduce el riesgo de ocurrencia y recurrencia, por lo que se recomienda su uso concepcional y periconcepcional. El conocimiento de sus efectos protectores varía mucho en la población. OBJETIVOS: Describir el conocimiento de las puérperas sobre el uso correcto del ácido fólico y sus alcances como factor protector. MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: Se condujeron encuestas entre un grupo de mujeres puérperas del Hospital de la Mujer mediante cuestionarios estructurados para obtener información el conocimiento del uso del ácido fólico periconcepcional. RESULTADOS: Entrevistamos 87 puérperas. El conocimiento y el uso del ácido fólico entre las entrevistadas fue bajo, 51% y 48.3% respectivamente. La escolaridad en este grupo poblacional es un factor predictivo del conocimiento y uso correcto del ácido fólico. DISCUSIÓN, CONCLUSIONES Y RECOMENDACIONES: El conocimiento del ácido fólico es relativamente bajo entre las mujeres puérperas entrevistadas, su uso durante el embarazo es insuficiente y la suplementación con antes de la concepción es nula. Aún nos queda un largo camino por recorrer. Se recomienda promover el conocimiento y el uso del ácido fólico en etapa periconcepcional, así como mayor información sobre los alimentos fortificados.

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND: Neural tube defects are among the most common congenital anomalies worldwide; folic acid reduces their risk of occurrence and is strongly recommended for conceptional and periconceptional use. Awareness of its protective effects varies widely among populations. OBJECTIVES: To measure the awareness of postpartum women about the correct use of folic acid and its protectants. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A survey was conducted in one group of postpartum women using structured questionnaires to obtain information on awareness and use of folic acid. RESULTS: We interviewed 87 postpartum women. Awareness and use of folic among the interviewees were low, 51% and 48.3% respectively. Schooling is a predictor of folic acid correct use and awareness. DISCUSSION, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS: Awareness of folic acid is relatively low among pregnant Bolivian women, its use during pregnancy is insufficient and supplementation before conception is zero. We still have a long way to go. We recommend the promotion of awareness and the use of folic acid in pregnant women.

Spectrum of thyroid disorders in tertiary care hospital at Patancheru, Sangareddy, Telangana, India - A clinical study

Malnutrition, particularly iodine deficiency, is one of the major contributing factors to thyroid disorders in India. Poverty in India is contributing to the increase of thyroid disorders through malnutrition, poor sanitation, and lack of access to medical facilities. Another factor is the lack of awareness about the symptoms and risk factors of thyroid disorders. Intake recommendations for iodine are provided in the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) developed by the Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) at the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies. WHO recommends universal iodinization of salt. High levels of iodine intake sometimes are associated with an increased risk of hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or autoimmune thyroiditis. We conducted a retrospective study at our hospital from December 2017 to January 2023. A total number of 57 cases were studied. Out of 57 patients, 46 patients presented with hypothyroidism and 11 with hyperthyroidism. Various clinical presentations, pathologies and socioeconomic problems are discussed.

A STUDY ON INTERNET AWARENESS, INTERNET ATTITUDE AND INTERNET BROWSING BEHAVIOUR AMONG B.ED., TRAINEES IN THANJAVUR DISTRICT.

The main objective of the study is to find the Internet awareness, Internet attitude, Internet browsing behavior among the B.Ed., Trainees in thanjavur district with their different dimensions of Age, Gender, Major subject ,Qualification ,Type of college, Gender of college ,Locality of college and Internet usage time. To analyse Internet awareness, Internet attitude, Internet browsing behavior among the B.Ed., Trainees by collecting the data from thanjavur district B.Ed., college students. For this investigation, a questionnaire developed the scholar to seek the information from the student teachers. we took 300 samples to investigate and the result shows there is no significant difference in the Internet awareness of the B.Ed., trainees and in all dimensions with respect to the variables. The study also showed a significance difference in men and women student teacher related to the Internet attitude. The Internet browsing behavior have significant influence on the B.Ed., trainees in thanjavur district.

Impact of accreditation on knowledge and awareness of laboratory technicians about the aspects of laboratory quality in a tertiary care public-sector teaching hospital

Background: Laboratory diagnosis in Indian health-care setup is usually the mainstay of screening and diagnosis of diseases. Accreditation is a process of approval by establishing adherence of pre-defined quality standards to the existing system which can bring about utmost quality in service delivery by increasing accuracy and reliability and minimizing errors. Need for accreditation is ever-increasing in public sector health-care centers. Aim and Objectives: To ascertain and to quantify the impact of accreditation via training and exposure in the cadre of laboratory technicians in tertiary care public sector hospital. Materials and Methods: It was an interventional study to check competency of laboratory technicians in various domains of NABL standards, before and after training and exposure to accreditation process. It was carried out amongst MLT students and employed laboratory technicians in the clinical biochemistry department of a public sector, tertiary care, teaching hospital and lasted for 2 months. Preformed questionnaire was used. Difference between pre- and post-test results was compared with appropriate statistical analysis. Results: Marked difference was seen in the performance of study subjects before (27.6 ± 9.9) and after (56.7 ± 6.2) exposure to training and accreditation process (Max. score of 80). Average gain was 37.5%. The difference was highly significant for each domain. Domains of pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical procedures saw the highest difference. There was a significant difference in competence gain between student lab. techs. and employed lab. techs. Conclusion: Benefits of accreditation are immense, yet it is a voluntary process in our country. Strict adherence to already laid out standards and protocols at national level can be achieved by continuous sensitization and capacity building. Public sector laboratories need to gear up and embrace this need. The same should also be incorporated effectively in the curriculum of laboratory technician students.

Self-Care Activities by Patients with Chronic Cardiovascular Morbidities: Explanatory Sequential Facility-Based Mixed Method Study in West Bengal, India

Background: Chronic cardiovascular morbidities are major public health concern. The objective was to as-sess awareness and practice of selfcare activities among patients with chronic cardiovascular morbidity in Burdwan Medical College (BMC) and to explore constraints in selfcare practice. Materials & Methods: A facility-based, explanatory sequential, mixed-method study was conducted in Cardi-ology super-specialty outpatient department of BMC, West Bengal. A calculated sample of 185 patients with chronic cardiovascular morbidity were selected randomly; interviewed with predesigned, pretested schedule (adapted from H-SCALE) for quantitative component. For qualitative component, eight study participants, se-lected purposively, were interviewed with In-depth-interview guide. Multivariable logistic regression was done to find out predictors of selfcare practice. Thematic inductive analysis was done to explore constraints. Results: 73% study participants were aware about overall selfcare practices; 43.8% performed satisfactory overall selfcare practice. Below secondary level educational status [AOR:0.412, 95% CI (0.178-0.956)] and lower & lower-middle socioeconomic status [AOR:0.063, 95% CI (0.017-0.230)] were found to create negative influence on favourable self-care practice. Thematic analysis revealed false belief, lack of motivation, lack of proper knowledge, emotional disturbances and Covid-19 pandemic impact as major constraints in selfcare practice. Conclusion: Selfcare awareness & practice both are low. Interventions are needed to ensure healthy lifestyle of patients.

Knowledge, attitudes, and experiences of a group of turkish dentists regarding child abuse / Conocimientos, actitudes y experiencias de un grupo de dentistas turcos en relación con el abuso infantil

Child abuse is a universal problem with critical lifelong effects. This study aimed to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, experiences of dentists regarding child abuse and to increase relevant awareness of them. A self-administered questionnaire with 48 questions about dentists' personal and educational information and their level of knowledge, attitudes, experiences on child abuse was implemented. Out of targeted 305 participants, 183 (60.0%) returned completely filled out questionnaires. Majority of participants knew signs and symptoms of child abuse. Of the participants, more than half were well-informed on what to do, however, one quarter had no knowledge about where to report in case of child abuse. In identifying child abuse, 39.3% of the participants found themselves inadequate. The most commonly stated reason for low rate of reporting was hesitancy to identify the case as abuse, and all participants needed more training. Only 12 (6.6%) participants suspected a case of child abuse. Dentists who had children and were long-time experienced and generalist did not have sufficient knowledge about legal obligations, signs and symptoms of child abuse (p<0.05). Arrangements and training programs to increase knowledge, awareness, and responsibility levels of dentists about child abuse appear to be a critically important topic.

El abuso infantil es un problema universal con efectos críticos de por vida. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar el conocimiento, las actitudes y las experiencias de los dentistas con respecto el abuso infantil y aumentar la conciencia relevante sobre ellos. Se implementó un cuestionario autoadministrado con 48 preguntas sobre información personal y educativa de los odontólogos y su nivel de conocimientos, actitudes, experiencias sobre el abuso infantil. De los 305 participantes seleccionados, 183 (60.0%) devolvieron los cuestionarios completos. La mayoría de los participantes conocían los signos y síntomas del abuso infantil. De los participantes, más de la mitad estaban bien informados sobre qué hacer, sin embargo, una cuarta parte no sabía dónde denunciar en caso de abuso infantil. Al identificar el abuso infantil, el 39.3% de los participantes se encontraron inadecuados. La razón más común para la baja tasa de informes fue la vacilación para identificar el caso como abuso, y todos los participantes necesitaban más capacitación. Solo 12 (6.6%) participantes sospecharon un caso de abuso infantil. Los odontólogos que tenían hijos y eran de larga experiencia y generalistas no tenían suficiente conocimiento sobre las obligaciones legales, signos y síntomas de abuso infantil (p<0,05). Los arreglos y los programas de capacitación para aumentar los niveles de conocimiento, conciencia y responsabilidad de los dentistas sobre el abuso infantil parecen ser un tema de importancia crítica.

Screening practices for breast and cervical cancer and associated factors, among rural women in Vellore, Tamil Nadu

Background: Population-based screening coverage for breast and cervical cancer screening in the community is inadequately reported in India. This study assessed screening rates, awareness, and other factors affecting screening, among rural women aged 25� years in Vellore, Tamil Nadu. Methods: Women aged 25� years, from five randomly selected villages of a rural block were included in this cross-sectional study in Vellore, Tamil Nadu. Households were selected by systematic random sampling, followed by simple random sampling of eligible women in the house. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to assess screening practices, awareness, and other factors related to cervical and breast cancer. Results: Although 43.8% and 57.9% were aware of the availability of screening for cervical and breast cancer respectively, screening rates were only 23.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 18.4-28.4%) and 16.2% (95% CI: 11.9-20.5%), respectively. Adequate knowledge (score of ?50%) on breast cancer was only 5.9%, with 27.2% for cervical cancer. Only 16.6% of women had ever attended any health education program on cancer. Exposure to health education (breast screening odds ratio [OR]: 6.89, 95% CI: 3.34-14.21; cervical screening OR: 6.92, 95% CI: 3.42-14.00); and adequate knowledge (breast OR: 4.69, 95% CI: 1.55-14.22; cervix OR: 3.01, 95% CI: 1.59-5.68) were independently associated with cancer screening. Conclusion: Awareness and screening rates for breast and cervical cancer are low among rural women in Tamil Nadu, a south Indian state with comparatively good health indices, with health education being an important factor associated with screening practices.