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Background: Hypertension, often referred to as the "silent killer," usually presents no symptoms, making many people unaware of their condition. Fishing, as a profession, poses unique health risks due to harsh environmental conditions, irregular work patterns, and strenuous physical demands. Fishermen are particularly vulnerable due to unhealthy diets, sleep disturbances, physical inactivity, tobacco and alcohol use, and obesity. Estimating the prevalence of hypertension among fishermen is crucial for understanding the extent of this hidden health issue within this high-risk group and for implementing targeted interventions to improve their health outcomes. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among Chennai's fishermen using systematic random sampling. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire, and blood pressure was recorded following JNC criteria. Results: The study included 180 fishermen with a mean (SD) age of 49 (12). The prevalence of hypertension was 38.9%. Significant associations were found between hypertension, age, and years of fishing experience. Notably, 77.2% of fishermen lacked knowledge about hypertension, and 86.1% were unaware of its risk factors. Isolated systolic hypertension was found in 16% of participants, while 36% had isolated diastolic hypertension. Conclusions: In Chennai, hypertension is highly prevalent among fishermen and is significantly associated with age, years of fishing experience and smoking. There was no significant association with family history of hypertension, stress, or fried fish consumption. Awareness and knowledge about hypertension were very low among the fishermen. Although isolated systolic and diastolic hypertension were relatively minimal, regular hypertension screening for this community is essential.
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Background: The seasonal Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness. The most important step in preventing flu is to get a flu vaccination each year along with everyday preventive actions. The objective of this research was to study the acceptance and awareness of Influenza vaccine among health care workers of a tertiary care centre, Kerala and to explore the preventive practices. Methods: This study was a hospital based cross sectional study conducted among 204 health care workers in a tertiary centre in Kerala. A simple random sampling technique was adopted. Data was collected using self-administered pretested semi structured questionnaires. Results: 165 (80.9%) are aware of the Influenza vaccine while 39 (19.1%) are not aware of the Influenza vaccine. 30 (14.7%) has received at least one dose of Influenza vaccine in last five years while 174 (85.2%) has not received the vaccine. 161(78.9%) says they are willing to get vaccinated against Influenza while 43(21.1%) are not willing to get vaccinated. Conclusions: Even though there is good awareness about Influenza vaccine, the number of vaccine recipients is less than ideal. However, majority are willing to take Influenza vaccine in the future which shows good acceptance.
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@#Introduction: The acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) is a major link connecting the upper limb to the torso. The acromioclavicular and coracoclavicular (CC) ligaments help in stabilising the joint. We feel it is prudent to address both these ligament injuries, to achieve optimum result. This study was undertaken to analyse the results of a simple frugal surgical technique we used to deal with this injury considering stabilisation for both these ligaments. Materials and methods: In this retrospective study, skeletally mature patients with Type III, IV or V ACJ dislocations who underwent open reduction and stabilisation of the joint with temporary K-wires, repair of the capsule and augmentation of CC ligaments with suture anchors were included. Clinico-radiological and functional outcome was evaluated. Functional assessment of the upper limb was analysed using the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Score (DASH), Constant shoulder score (CSS) and Oxford shoulder score (OSS). Results: Clinical and radiological evaluation of the 32 patients who had completed two years from the index surgery, was done. Out of the 37 patients included initially, five were lost in follow-up. Majority of the subjects included were males and type V was the most common injury. Mean pre-operative CC distance on the affected side was 13.92±4.94mm. In the immediate post-operative radiograph, it was 7.63±2.08mm and in the final follow- up was 9.36±2.75mm. Measurements were taken by two independent investigators and inter, and intra-observer reliability were analysed by Interclass correlation coefficient. Excellent functional outcome was noted despite the 1.81±1.50mm average loss of correction. At final followup, mean DASH score was 4.67±4.18, Oxford shoulder score was 44.06±2.44 and Constant shoulder score was 86.37±5.81. The severity of the injury had no significant effect on the functional outcome post our method of stabilisation and rehabilitation. Conclusion: Bifocal fixation restores the multidirectional stability of the disrupted ACJ. Adequate radiological reduction, good functional outcome and simplicity of execution make this technique an undemanding one for use in regular practice.
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ABSTRACT Synovial chondromatosis or osteochondromatosis is a benign neoplastic condition arising from synovial tissue of joints, tendon sheath and bursa. The commonly involved joints are the knee, hip, shoulder, elbow and ankle. According to the author's knowledge, only four cases have been reported in the English literature, describing the extra-articular synovial chondro-matosis around the ankle joint. The peculiarity of the index case lies in its subtle clinical and radiological presentations which can create a diagnostic dilemma.