https://nicpd.ac.in/ojs-/index.php/gjmedph/issue/feed Global Journal of Medicine & Public Health 2025-12-08T17:00:18+00:00 Editor in Chief SM Kadri kadrism@gmail.com Open Journal Systems <p>The GJMEDPH is a peer-reviewed, open access journal, with an international editorial board. It is an initiative of the Regional Institute of Health and Family Welfare, Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir, India. The Institute was established under the India Population Project VII (IPP) with assistance from the World Bank and is meant to serve as an apex institution for the continuing education of in-service health professionals and staff from non-profit, non-governmental organisations involved in health activities.</p> https://nicpd.ac.in/ojs-/index.php/gjmedph/article/view/4189 HPV Vaccine awareness and acceptance: Survey among medical students 2025-12-07T16:39:56+00:00 Prachi D. Sondankar prachisondankar@gmail.com Parvinder S. Chawla, D drparvinderchawla@gmail.com Mayavati N. Nannaware, mayanannaware80@gmail.com Khyati Kalra khyatikalra4@gmail.com <p><strong>Introduction </strong></p> <p>Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is a crucial tool in preventing certain types of cancer and other diseases. CDC</p> <p>recommends vaccination for everyone through age 26 years if not adequately vaccinated when</p> <p>younger. Awareness and acceptance of this vaccine plays crucial role in prevention. Future doctors should be aware</p> <p>of the importance and benefits of the HPV vaccine. Higher vaccine acceptance among medical students can</p> <p>contribute to higher vaccination rates in public.</p> <p><strong>Objectives </strong></p> <p>1.To study the level of awareness of HPV vaccination among medical students. 2. To know the various barriers of</p> <p>HPV vaccine uptake.</p> <p><strong>Methods </strong></p> <p>It was descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at tertiary care teaching hospital. Study participants were</p> <p>medical students. Study duration was from October 2024 – March 2025. Universal sampling was used. Data was</p> <p>collected through google form questionnaire circulated in online Whats App platform and analyzed.</p> <p><strong>Results </strong></p> <p>Total responses received were 543. Mean age of the participants was 20.67 ± 1.71 years. Research findings showed</p> <p>that 97.24 %(C.I.- 95.48% to 98.45%) participants were having awareness regarding HPV vaccination. 95.58% (C.I.-</p> <p>93.49% to 97.15%) were aware of vaccine role in prevention of cervical cancer but majority were not aware of its</p> <p>protective role in other diseases. Majority, 75.14%(C.I. – 71.28% to 78.72%) had not taken the vaccine. Barriers for</p> <p>HPV vaccine uptake were insufficient knowledge about the vaccine in 31.18%, concerns regarding safety of the</p> <p>vaccine in 12.03%, 11.58% said it was not available and 10.91% were not sure about the benefits.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion </strong></p> <p>Though awareness of HPV vaccination is present, a significant portion of medical students were not vaccinated</p> <p>against HPV. Lack of accurate knowledge, doubts about safety and benefits among medical students were the main</p> <p>barriers of the vaccine uptake. As India is planning to roll out this vaccine in National Immunization schedule,</p> <p>overcoming barriers in medical students who will be future medical professionals is of utmost importance.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> 2025-12-07T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 https://nicpd.ac.in/ojs-/index.php/gjmedph/article/view/4190 Awareness and Uptake of Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram Scheme among the Women Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital - A Cross-Sectional Study 2025-12-07T16:48:05+00:00 Jatin Prajapati, jatinprajapati@gmail.com Meena Kumari Dangi, jatinprajapati@gmail.com Shivani Choudhary, jatinprajapati@gmail.com Shivani Vihan , jatinprajapati@gmail.com Keerti , jatinprajapati@gmail.com . Shikha Mehta , jatinprajapati@gmail.com <p><strong>Background </strong></p> <p>Maternal mortality continues to be a pressing issue in India, necessitating ongoing efforts to improve maternal</p> <p>health and reduce the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR). Launched in 2011, the Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram</p> <p>(JSSK) is a significant initiative by the Government of India aimed at providing free and cashless healthcare services</p> <p>to pregnant women and newborns.</p> <p><strong>Objective </strong></p> <p>This study examines the awareness and uptake of the JSSK scheme among women attending a tertiary care hospital</p> <p>in Udaipur.</p> <p><strong>Methodology </strong></p> <p>A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Pannadhay Zanana Hospital, MBGH, Udaipur, over six</p> <p>months. A total of 260 women meeting the inclusion criteria participated. Data were collected using a semi</p> <p>structured questionnaire, assessing awareness and uptake of the JSSK scheme. Descriptive statistics and inferential</p> <p>analysis were performed using SPSS v21, with significance set at P&lt;0.05.</p> <p><strong>Results </strong></p> <p>The majority of participants (70.8%) were aged 20-30 years. Literacy rates were high, with 79.2% of participants</p> <p>being literate. Most participants (93.1%) were unemployed, and 75.4% resided in rural areas. Socioeconomic</p> <p>analysis showed that 45.4% belonged to the lower middle class. Awareness of the JSSK scheme was nearly universal</p> <p>(99.6%), with high utilization rates (98.5%). Family members were the primary source of information about the</p> <p>scheme (71.0%).</p> <p><strong>Conclusion </strong></p> <p>The JSSK scheme has successfully reached a significant portion of its target population, demonstrating high</p> <p>awareness and utilization among women attending tertiary care in Udaipur.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> 2025-12-07T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 https://nicpd.ac.in/ojs-/index.php/gjmedph/article/view/4191 Evaluation of serological diagnostic tests for Leptospirosis-A retrospective study 2025-12-07T16:57:09+00:00 Jethwa Dipal K, drdipaljethwachauhan@gmail.com Chauhan Darshan , drdarshanchauhan@gmail.com Panwala Tanvi H drtanvi2006@gmail.com Mulla Summaiya , mullasummaiya@gmail.com <p><strong>Introduction </strong></p> <p>Leptospirosis is an emerging zoonotic bacterial infection that remains a major public health problem in tropical and</p> <p>subtropical regions majorly in coastal regions ofIndia. Laboratory diagnosis of leptospirosis is mandatory because</p> <p>of varied clinical picture and existence of similar infections in endemic regions which cause confusion in the</p> <p>diagnosis. We evaluated and analyzed two immunodiagnostic test, Leptocheck WB-Rapid</p> <p>immunochromatography test and Leptospira IgM ELISA (Panbio) test detecting Ig M antibodies (Ab) for Leptospira</p> <p>in serum and compared with MAT (Microscopic agglutination test) test.</p> <p><strong>Materials and Methods </strong></p> <p>Blood samples from suspected patients of leptospirosis were tested by ELISA and Rapid test for IgM Ab detection</p> <p>and MAT test from January 2022 to December 2023. The data were entered in Microsoft Excel and analyzed using</p> <p>Epi Info software version 3.5.1. Descriptive analysis based on bivariant and multi-variant analysis was done. Chi</p> <p>square test was applied and p-value found to demonstrate association between the tests.</p> <p><strong>Results </strong></p> <p>Out of 75 blood samples tested, 29 were positive by three different serological tests. ELISA and rapid test on</p> <p>comparison with MAT showed 96.29%, 85.18% of sensitivity respectively and 93.75% of specificity. Predominant</p> <p>serovar identified from MAT were L.Automonalis (77%) L. Australis (77%). <strong>Conclusion: </strong>This study suggests that</p> <p>diagnostic accuracy of IgM ELISA for leptospirosis is sensitive in acute stage of the thedisease. Immunodiagnostic</p> <p>methods are simple and easy to perform in detecting IgM antibody in acute phase compared to MAT in resource</p> <p>limited settings.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> 2025-12-07T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 https://nicpd.ac.in/ojs-/index.php/gjmedph/article/view/4192 Diagnostic potential of inflammatory markers in tuberculous pleural effusion: a prospective tertiary hospital study 2025-12-07T17:02:59+00:00 Shashidhar S Vananjakar dr.ssvananjakar@yahoo.com Prasanna Kumar T, prasannakumart@msrmc.ac.in Nirantha S P nirantha.sp@gmail.com Mohammed Sameer Kundale, sameer.kundale@gmail.com Sruthy Vijayan, D sruthy1095@gmail.com Pragati Rao D dwarapu.pragati@gmail.com <p><strong>Introduction </strong></p> <p><strong>Background and Objectives </strong></p> <p>India is an endemic country for TB Tuberculosis(TB), with the pleura being the most common extra pulmonary site</p> <p>affected, followed by lymph nodes. Diagnosing EPTB Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis( EPTB)is as crucial as treating</p> <p>it, since many cases are often neglected or improperly managed outside medical college hospitals. The objective of</p> <p>my study is to compare the diagnostic accuracy of the Neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR) with that of isolated</p> <p>pleural fluid ADA Adenosine deaminase(ADA) levels in lymphocyte predominant effusions.</p> <p><strong>Methods </strong></p> <p>This is a prospective study conducted after ethical clearance and collected patient data, including demographics,</p> <p>vital signs, laboratory test results, and imaging. Under aseptic conditions diagnostic and and therapeutic</p> <p>pleurocentesis was performed for the patients after their informed consent. Pleural fluid for NLR was compared</p> <p>with standard ADA alone in high pre-test probability (exudative lymphocytic predominant). Patients were followed</p> <p>up after a month of starting ATT ( Anti Tuberculosis Treatment ), to assess clinical response by repeat imaging.</p> <p><strong>Results </strong></p> <p>A total of 54 patients among 80 patients who met the inclusion criteria ,with exudative pleural effusion was included</p> <p>in the study. The mean neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio value was significantly lower in tuberculous pleural effusion.</p> <p>NLR cut off was plotted with Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve with sensitivity and specificity</p> <p>calculated.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion </strong></p> <p>The pleural fluid neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, which is an inexpensive, reproducible, and easily calculated</p> <p>haematological parameter when tested with ADA, synergistically increases the diagnostic accuracy.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> 2025-12-07T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 https://nicpd.ac.in/ojs-/index.php/gjmedph/article/view/4196 The impact of menstruation on the well-being of female students in a private higher education institution in South Africa- A qualitative study 2025-12-07T17:17:54+00:00 Shonisani Mukatuni shonisani@gmail.com Bukola G.Olutola shonisani@gmail.com <p><strong>Introduction </strong></p> <p>Menstrual health needs to be recognized as a health issue, and not only as a hygiene problem. It affects the health</p> <p>and wellbeing of women, especially young women in higher education institutions. It leads to absenteeism and</p> <p>further adds to the existing high stress that students already have. Therefore, this study sought to explore the</p> <p>impacts of menstrual health/ menstruation on the well-being and academic performance of students in a private</p> <p>higher education institution in South Africa.</p> <p><strong>Methods </strong></p> <p>A case study was conducted using a qualitative approach. A total of 10 female students from a private higher</p> <p>education institution, a private higher Institution in South Africa were interviewed using the in-depth semi</p> <p>structured interview method. The participants’ age ranged from 20 to 24 years old and the average age of</p> <p>menarche was 13 years old. Thematic analysis was used to analyse that data collected,</p> <p><strong>Results </strong></p> <p>Six themes were generated and these included, i) Negative menstrual experiences, ii) Perception on physical</p> <p>appearance, iii) Impact on mental wellbeing, iv) Impact of academic performance and v) Coping mechanisms and</p> <ol> <li>vi) Recommendations proposed by the participants.</li> </ol> <p><strong>Conclusion </strong></p> <p>The study showed that menstruation could affect mental, physical and social wellbeing of higher education</p> <p>institution of students. As the focus was on female students, a supportive environment is required to educate and</p> <p>support those using effective strategies to benefit their academic performance. It is also important to understand</p> <p>the coping mechanism adopted by female students towards their menstrual health. This will help with the decision</p> <p>making by the policy makers.</p> 2025-12-07T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 https://nicpd.ac.in/ojs-/index.php/gjmedph/article/view/4197 Prevalence and Determinants of poor Glycemic Control in adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A study from an urban population in Nadia district 2025-12-07T17:21:51+00:00 Shailesh Kukadiya ShaileshKukadiya@gmail.com Deblina Sarkar ShaileshKukadiya@gmail.com Suman Kumar Roy , ShaileshKukadiya@gmail.com Pritha Ganguly, ShaileshKukadiya@gmail.com <p><strong>Background </strong></p> <p>India is known as the "diabetic capital of the world" and has the second-highest rate of adult diabetes globally. One</p> <p>of the main causes of the diabetes epidemic in India is urbanisation. In patients with Type 2 diabetes, inadequate</p> <p>glycaemic management is a major public health concern and a major risk factor for the disease's progression and</p> <p>complications. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the glycaemic control status and factors that</p> <p>contribute to poor glycaemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes.</p> <p><strong>Materials and Methods </strong></p> <p>This is a cross-sectional study done over a period of four months, among patients with T2DM attending the College</p> <p>of Medicine and JNM hospital, Kalyani and UHTC Chakdah State General Hospital, Nadia district, West Bengal,</p> <p>using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. A total of 200 patients with T2DM who had the latest reports of</p> <p>fasting blood sugar values were included in the study. SPSS version 26 was used to analyse the collected data and</p> <p>to identify the determinants and risk factors leading to poor glycaemic control.</p> <p><strong>Results </strong></p> <p>Of the 200 study participants, 62.5% had poor glycaemic control. The mean FBS value of the study group was 145.59</p> <p>± 42.57 mg/dL. Further, it was found that irregular check-ups, type of medication, and non-adherence to a diabetic</p> <p>diet were risk factors for poor glycaemic status.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion </strong></p> <p>It was shown that a significant number of diabetics had poor glycaemic control; therefore, to effectively manage</p> <p>this condition and lessen the burden of the disease, appropriate health education, diabetes counselling, and the</p> <p>planning of health awareness programs are required.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> 2025-12-07T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 https://nicpd.ac.in/ojs-/index.php/gjmedph/article/view/4198 Introduction of reflective writing as a Learning Tool for community visits under family adoption programme 2025-12-07T17:27:09+00:00 Rashmi Kashyap, rashmikashyap244@gmail.com Aroma Oberoi rashmikashyap244@gmail.com Ajay Kumar drajay.email@gmail.com Shriya Kashyap: drajay.email@gmail.com <p><strong>Introduction </strong></p> <p>Competency based curriculum for medical undergraduate students considers reflective writing as an essential</p> <p>aspect pertaining to self-directed learning. Reflective writing during community visits helps medical undergraduate</p> <p>in developing the habit of questioning themselves and subsequently finding solutions pertaining to various</p> <p>community based health care.</p> <p><strong>Aim and Objectives </strong></p> <p>To explore reflective writing skills during family visits by undergraduate medical students and assess reflective</p> <p>writing skills after sensitization to a reflective writing model</p> <p><strong>Methods </strong></p> <p>The cross-sectional study was conducted in the department of Community Medicine among Phase I and II medical</p> <p>undergraduate students. After completing their family visits, students from both batches were asked to write</p> <p>reflections using google form based on Gibbs reflective cycle. This was followed by sensitization session for writing</p> <p>reflections based on various components of Gibbs cycle. Following the session, students repeated the process of</p> <p>writing down reflections. The level of reflective writing was assessed by using validated rubric based scale for</p> <p>Application, Depth, Quality and Structure for various components of Gibb’s reflective cycle (Description, Feeling,</p> <p>Evaluation, Analysis, Conclusion, Action plan). For grading, five point rubric based scale was used. Satisfaction level</p> <p>for the use of this model for reflective writing by students was determined on Four point Likert scale.</p> <p><strong>Results </strong></p> <p>All the mean scores before and after sensitization session were statistically significant within phase I &amp; II students</p> <p>(p&lt;0.001). Comparative rubric based analysis for phase I and phase II MBBS students for various parameters of</p> <p>Gibb’s Reflective cycle model (Application, Depth of Reflection, Quality of information, Structure &amp; organization</p> <p>showed significant differences with scores higher for phase II students as compared to phase I (p&lt;0.001). The</p> <p>assessment of satisfaction levels for using Gibbs reflective writing model revealed that 54 students (90%) students</p> <p>were satisfied from phase I MBBS while 81students (93%) were satisfied from phase II.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion </strong></p> <p>Gibbs’ Reflective Writing Model was well-received by MBBS students, with high satisfaction levels reported in both</p> <p>Phase I and Phase II. The findings highlight the importance of reflective practice in medical education and suggest</p> <p>that structured reflection can be a valuable tool for enhancing learning and professional development.</p> 2025-12-07T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 https://nicpd.ac.in/ojs-/index.php/gjmedph/article/view/4199 The Impact of Blue-Green Infrastructure on Morbidity and Mortality during Extreme Heat 2025-12-07T17:31:42+00:00 Rebecca Kimble becky.aza.kimble@gmail.com <p><strong>ABSTRACT </strong></p> <p><strong>Background </strong></p> <p>Extreme heat events are one of the deadliest effects of our changing climate. Blue-green infrastructure aids</p> <p>with ambient temperature regulation and has an overall positive effect on human health. Studies</p> <p>documenting the impact of blue-green infrastructure on human health during extreme heat are fragmented</p> <p>across multiple disciplines, with no current synthesis completed.</p> <p><strong>Objective </strong></p> <p>To examine the current evidence regarding the impact of blue-green infrastructures on human morbidity and</p> <p>mortality during extreme heat.</p> <p><strong>Methodology </strong></p> <p>A PubMed literature review search was conducted in June 2024 using 13 common terms to describe blue-green</p> <p>infrastructure, five terms for extreme heat, plus health. Included studies evaluated a blue-green infrastructure</p> <p>variable and health outcome during measured extreme heat. Non-in situ human research was excluded.</p> <p>Synthesization was conducted using an ecosystems service theoretical framework.</p> <p><strong>Results </strong></p> <p>The PubMed search terms yielded 145 articles, 124 did not meet the necessary criteria, and 21 were synthesized.</p> <p>Sixty-seven percent showed a statistically significant (p-values 0.001 to 0.05) direct association between blue</p> <p>green infrastructure presence and health outcomes during extreme heat. Mortality rate and mental health were</p> <p>studied most frequently. An additional 19% of studies found similar statistically nonsignificant trends. Three</p> <p>studies found no consistent interaction</p> <p><strong>Conclusion </strong></p> <p>Blue-green infrastructure may play a critical protective role for human health during extreme heat.</p> <p><strong>Public health implications </strong></p> <p>Blue-green infrastructure is an economically accessible and sustainable method of mitigating many of the effects</p> <p>of climate change, including water management and lowered surface temperatures. While its impact on health is</p> <p>likely multifactorial, its protective role on morbidity and other health outcomes during heat waves should be</p> <p>embraced as a viable part of future public health climate resiliency plans.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> 2025-12-07T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 https://nicpd.ac.in/ojs-/index.php/gjmedph/article/view/4200 A Cross-sectional study on awareness and factors influencing use of Home Blood Pressure Monitoring 2025-12-07T17:37:01+00:00 K.V. Phani Madhavi, A kvphani@gmail.com I.V.Sreevaishnavi kvphani@gmail.com V.V. Durga Prasad, kvphani@gmail.com Muddada Jhansilakshmi, kvphani@gmail.com <p><strong>Background </strong></p> <p>Home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM), whether guided by patients or clinicians, is increasingly acknowledged</p> <p>as an effective method for improving blood pressure control in hypertension. Compared to clinic measurements,</p> <p>HBPM offers more reproducible readings and better predicts cardiovascular mortality. Additional benefits include</p> <p>convenience, the ability to take repeated readings over time, reduced white coat effect, and enhanced patient</p> <p>involvement in managing their condition.</p> <p><strong>Objective </strong></p> <p>To assess the awareness gap regarding home blood pressure monitoring interventions among hypertensive</p> <p>individuals and factors influencing it.</p> <p><strong>Methods </strong></p> <p>A cross-sectional study was conducted among 235 adults &gt;18 years of age adult patients attending field practice</p> <p>area of tertiary care center for a period of 1 year amongst who are diagnosed as hypertensives on regular treatment</p> <p>for at least three months. Pré-designed, pre-tested, Pré-validated questionnaire was used. Data was collected on</p> <p>various parameters, including gender, education, socioeconomic status, cost of the blood pressure (BP) apparatus,</p> <p>awareness regarding home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM), and proficiency or lack of training in performing</p> <p>HBPM.The collected data were entered in excel and analyzed using Microsoft Office 365. Categorical variables were</p> <p>assessed for statistical significance using the chi-square test. Permission was taken from Institutional Ethics</p> <p>Committee.</p> <p><strong>Results </strong></p> <p>Among the 235 participants, 18.3% had been diagnosed with hypertension for less than six months, 16.2% for six</p> <p>months to one year, and the majority, 65.5%, for more than one year. In terms of healthcare preference, 30% opted</p> <p>for government facilities, while 70% chose private ones. Regarding home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM), 107</p> <p>participants were aware of it, but only 59 reported actually using it. The most common reason for not using HBPM,</p> <p>cited by 38.3% was a lack of knowledge on how to operate the device. Additionally, 28.1% felt it was necessary, and</p> <p>8.5% identified the cost of the equipment as a barrier.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion </strong></p> <p>Home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM) is an effective tool for managing hypertension, offering more reliable</p> <p>readings than clinic measurements and better predicting cardiovascular risk. It also provides convenience,</p> <p>minimizes white coat effect, allows repeated measurements, and promotes patient engagement.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> 2025-12-07T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 https://nicpd.ac.in/ojs-/index.php/gjmedph/article/view/4201 Assessment of Anxiety Disorder in First Year Undergraduate Students of a Medical College in Ahmedabad, Gujarat,India 2025-12-07T17:42:18+00:00 Bhargav Dave, bbdave1307@gmail.com Sweta Desai, bbdave1307@gmail.com Sheetal Shrimali bbdave1307@gmail.com Rachna Kapoor bbdave1307@gmail.com Chetan Prajapati bbdave1307@gmail.com .Parth Joshi bbdave1307@gmail.com <p><strong>ABSTRACT </strong></p> <p>Introduction: Medical education is competitive across the globe. It is considered to be one of the most academically</p> <p>and emotionally demanding training programs out of any profession.</p> <p>Objectives: Assessment of level of anxiety amongst newly admitted first year undergraduate medical students.</p> <p>Methods: Cross sectional study was carried out amongst students by using a pre-designed and pre-tested, semi</p> <p>structured questionnaire. Hamilton Anxiety Rating scale (HAM-A) was used for assessing the level of anxiety.</p> <p>Google form was prepared and explained to the students and responses were collected.. 167 students participated</p> <p>in this research.</p> <p>Result: Out of total 167 students,75(44.91%) were boys and 92(55.09%) were girls. Mean age of boys and girls was</p> <p>18.16 + 0.77 and 17.91 + 0.77 years respectively.103(61.68%) were residing in hostels. Forty (53.33%) boys and</p> <p>36(39.13%) girls had no anxiety ,35(46.67%) boys and 53(57.61%) girls had mild anxiety, none of boys have moderate</p> <p>to severe type of anxiety, 2(2.17%) girls have moderate type of anxiety and 1(1.08%) girl has severe type of</p> <p>anxiety.Fifty- nine (35.33%) students are using relaxation method to relieve anxiety. The mean HAM-A score was</p> <p>7.42 ± 3.65, indicating mild anxiety levels overall. There is no significant difference in anxiety levels as per age,</p> <p>gender, type of residence and different living situation.</p> <p>Conclusion: Though the anxiety level as assess by HAM-A scale amongst the medical students was high but the</p> <p>overall mean score of anxiety was very low and all had only mild level of anxiety. These findings highlight the</p> <p>importance of early psychological orientation and stress management sessions to help students adapt to the</p> <p>demanding medical curriculum.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> 2025-12-07T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 https://nicpd.ac.in/ojs-/index.php/gjmedph/article/view/4202 Prevalence of Depression among nursing staff in a tertiary care hospital in Wayanad, Kerala: An observational study 2025-12-07T17:51:51+00:00 Abhinand Sai M B abhinanad@gmail.com Nandana Jawahar, abhinanad@gmail.com Sreelal T.P, abhinanad@gmail.com Nandana S, abhinanad@gmail.com Ashid Salim, abhinanad@gmail.com <p>Depression is a significant global health issue, affecting over 350 million individuals. A population-based study in</p> <p>India reported a 15.1% prevalence of depression. Nurses play a crucial role in healthcare, and their well-being</p> <p>directly impacts hospital quality, making their mental health an essential concern.</p> <p>Objectives-To estimate the prevalence of depression among nursing staff of a tertiary healthcare hospital. To</p> <p>determine the association between depression and the sociodemographic factors influencing poor mental health.</p> <p>Methodology-This was a cross-sectional observational study conducted among 201 nursing staff in a tertiary</p> <p>healthcare hospital in Wayanad district of Kerala. Study was conducted between July 2024 to September 2024 by</p> <p>complete enumeration method. A standardized Beck’s Depression Inventory Questionnaire was used to assess the</p> <p>severity of depression among nursing staff.</p> <p><strong>Results </strong></p> <p>The mean age of nursing staff was 30.22 ± 6.49 years; 86% were women, and 14% were men. The majority were</p> <p>Christians (44%). 42% of the study subjects were married and 54% were unmarried. 66% belonged to nuclear families,</p> <p>22% to extended nuclear families, and 12% to joint families.35.2% (71) were normal, while 45.27 % had depression—</p> <p>19.40%(39) mild mood disturbance,12.43% (25) borderline clinical depression, 16.91% (34) moderate, 12.43% (25)</p> <p>severe, and 3.48% (7) extremely severe depression. Depression was linked to sex, age, marital status, work</p> <p>experience, time spent with friends and distance of hospital from home.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion </strong></p> <p>Our study reveals that there is significant prevalence of depression among nursing staff and there is association of</p> <p>depression with sociodemographic factors which can impact the Quality of service. Also due to the personal life and</p> <p>the difficulties faced such as increased distance from home, marital status, time spent with friends, etc, there can be</p> <p>a negative impact on professional life.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> 2025-12-07T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 https://nicpd.ac.in/ojs-/index.php/gjmedph/article/view/4203 Estimation of serum magnesium levels in stable and acute exacerbation of bronchial asthma and its correlation with disease severity. A cross-sectional study 2025-12-07T18:00:24+00:00 Unni R Baby unnirbaby@gmail.com Anjali Sreekumar, unnirbaby@gmail.com Supriya Adiody, unnirbaby@gmail.com Vishnu Narayanan S unnirbaby@gmail.com <p><strong>Background </strong></p> <p>Magnesium sulfate (MgSO?) is widely used in managing acute exacerbations of bronchial asthma, especially in</p> <p>refractory cases. However, hypomagnesemia remains an under recognized electrolyte abnormality, often</p> <p>overlooked in routine asthma care. This study aims to assess serum magnesium levels in patients with bronchial</p> <p>asthma—both in stable condition and during acute exacerbations—and to explore its correlation with asthma</p> <p>severity.</p> <p><strong>Materials and Methods </strong></p> <p>This cross-sectional study was carried out at a tertiary care center in Thrissur, Kerala, with a total of 80 participants.</p> <p>Patients were divided into two main groups: Group A (Stable Asthma): Subdivided into well-controlled, partially</p> <p>controlled, and uncontrolled asthma based on the GINA symptom assessment. Group B (Acute Exacerbation):</p> <p>Further classified into mild to moderate and severe asthma based on clinical assessment. Serum magnesium levels</p> <p>were measured at the time of presentation for all patients.</p> <p><strong>Results </strong></p> <p>The findings showed a statistically significant reduction in mean serum magnesium levels among patients with</p> <p>acute exacerbations (1.71 ± 0.16 mg/dL). Among those with stable asthma, patients with uncontrolled asthma had</p> <p>lower magnesium levels (1.85 ± 0.16 mg/dL) compared to those with partially controlled (2.06 ± 0.14 mg/dL) and</p> <p>well-controlled asthma (2.08 ± 0.14 mg/dL).</p> <p><strong>Conclusion </strong></p> <p>Serum magnesium levels were notably lower in asthmatic patients with higher disease severity. These findings</p> <p>suggest that monitoring and correcting magnesium deficiency could potentially improve asthma control and</p> <p>reduce exacerbations.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> 2025-12-07T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 https://nicpd.ac.in/ojs-/index.php/gjmedph/article/view/4204 Preparedness and response to outbreaks in port of entries: A case of Ebola Virus Disease at Julius Nyerere International Airport, Tanzania 2025-12-07T18:06:49+00:00 Amina Kingo , amina.kingo@tmda.go.tz Nathanael Sirili , amina.kingo@tmda.go.tz Notikela Nyamle amina.kingo@tmda.go.tz <p><strong>Background </strong></p> <p>Preparedness and response to outbreak remain a major means for the prevention and control of outbreaks including</p> <p>Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). Although Tanzania has not being seriously hit by EVD in the past few decades, some of</p> <p>the neighboring countries have been badly hit. The disease is highly contagious and easily transmitted through</p> <p>human-to-human transmission. Port of entries in countries remains the major point of focus especially when a</p> <p>neighboring country having an outbreak<strong>. </strong></p> <p><strong>Objective </strong></p> <p>To explore challenges facing preparedness of port of entries in Tanzania on prevention and control of outbreaks</p> <p>from the experiences of Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA) during the 2018 EVD outbreak in Congo (DRC)</p> <p><strong>Methods </strong></p> <p>We conducted nine in-depth interviews with officials from departments of Health, Immigration, Airport Authority</p> <p>and members of Comprehensive Emergency Preparedness and Response Team at JNIA to explore the challenges</p> <p>facing preparedness and response to EVD. A hybrid thematic analysis was employed for the data analysis.</p> <p><strong>Findings </strong></p> <p>Limited EVD information sharing among Emergency Comprehensive Team, inadequacy staff for EVD</p> <p>preparedness, poor coordination of resources for EVD response, limited capacity building opportunities for staff at</p> <p>JNIA, inappropriate utilization of isolation place, and limited transport capacity for referral cases were the major</p> <p>challenges facing preparedness and response for prevention and control of outbreak at JNIA.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion </strong></p> <p>Preparedness of EVD at JNIA, the largest international airport in Tanzania faces many challenges. Coordination of</p> <p>resources, strengthening the communication system for outbreaks and capacity building to staff at port of entries</p> <p>are recommended initial steps in strengthening preparedness and response to outbreak. This small-scale study calls</p> <p>for further studies to explore preparedness and response to outbreaks in port of entries in Tanzania.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> 2025-12-07T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 https://nicpd.ac.in/ojs-/index.php/gjmedph/article/view/4205 The Risk of Micromanagement in Healthcare 2025-12-08T16:28:52+00:00 Helen Dao, helen@daoconsultingservices.com <p>Healthcare leaders carry enormous responsibility. They are accountable for compliance, patient safety, quality</p> <p>metrics, and financial performance. With so much at stake, it is tempting to believe that tighter control guarantees</p> <p>better results. Yet in quality improvement (QI), micromanagement is not a safeguard; it is a barrier. Sustainable</p> <p>improvement requires leaders who are change-ready, willing to delegate authority, and able to trust their staff to</p> <p>drive solutions creatively.</p> <p>When Control Becomes Constraint</p> <p>Micromanagement often stems from good intentions. Leaders seek consistency, accountability, and assurance that</p> <p>improvement projects will not drift off course. During moments of crisis, such as patient safety incidents or</p> <p>regulatory reviews, closing oversight may be necessary. However, when micromanagement becomes the default</p> <p>leadership style, it undermines the very people who are closest to work and best positioned to identify meaningful</p> <p>improvements. Frontline staff, including providers, nurses, medical assistants, care coordinators, and registration</p> <p>clerks, experience the inefficiencies and bottlenecks that leaders rarely see firsthand. Yet under micromanagement,</p> <p>their ideas are delayed, dismissed, or overridden. Instead of cultivating ownership, the organization cultivates</p> <p>compliance. Instead of fostering creativity, it produces caution. As I noted in <em>Mastering Healthcare Consulting: The </em></p> <p><em>Consultant’s Playbook</em>, “Change often provokes skepticism or resistance, particularly in healthcare, where</p> <p>established routines, procedures, and hierarchies are integral to daily operations. This resistance can arise from fear</p> <p>of the unknown, perceived threats to job security, or concerns about increased workload.”¹ Micromanagement</p> <p>amplifies those fears and leaves staff disengaged at the very moment when their insight is most needed.</p> <p>The False Comfort of Micromanagement</p> <p>There is a common argument that micromanagement ensures standardization and prevents mistakes. In practice,</p> <p>this is a false comfort. Over-control may yield short-term compliance, but it suffocates long-term improvement.</p> <p>Teams learn to wait for permission rather than solve problems. Innovation slows. Engagement erodes. And the</p> <p>burden of decision-making concentrates at the top, which is unsustainable for leaders and toxic for the culture.</p> <p>What Change-Ready Leadership Looks Like</p> <p>Effective leaders recognize that QI is not simply a technical exercise but an organizational change process. Change</p> <p>ready leadership is characterized by setting vision, granting autonomy, and creating the conditions for</p> <p>psychological safety. Leaders define the “why” and the intended outcomes, while staff are entrusted with</p> <p>determining the “how.” This aligns with well-known change frameworks that emphasize urgency, coalitions, skills</p> <p>development, and reinforcement.²,?</p> <p>In <em>The Consultant’s Playbook</em>, I emphasize: “Involve key stakeholders from the beginning to foster a sense of</p> <p>ownership. Use their insights to tailor solutions and build trust across teams.”¹ Ownership and trust are antidotes</p> <p>to micromanagement. They transform reluctant staff into committed partners in improvement.</p> <p>Change-ready leaders:</p> <p>? Set the vision, not every step. Provide clarity of purpose and outcomes but allow flexibility in</p> <p>implementation.</p> <p>? Delegate with trust. Empower staff to design, test, and refine solutions in real time.</p> <p>? Create psychological safety. Encourage experimentation, accept early failures as learning, and celebrate</p> <p>small wins.</p> <p>? Intervene only when necessary. Step in when patient safety, compliance, or strategic alignment are at risk,</p> <p>rather than managing every detail.</p> <p>When Control Turns Toxic</p> <p>Micromanagement becomes toxic when staff are consistently excluded from decision-making about the processes</p> <p>they carry out daily. Creativity is discouraged in favor of rigid adherence to rules. Leadership overrides staff input</p> <p>without explanation. Obedience rather than outcomes judge performance. The result is predictable:</p> <p>disengagement, stalled innovation, and organizational inertia.<strong>Editorial </strong></p> <p><strong>Helen Dao et al. </strong></p> <p>2</p> <p>www.gjmedph.com Vol. 14, No.4, 2025 ISSN# 2277-9604</p> <p>A Call to Leaders</p> <p>Healthcare does not lack improvement frameworks. From Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles to Lean and Six Sigma, proven</p> <p>tools exist. What many organizations lack is leadership that trusts staff to act on these methods. Micromanagement</p> <p>provides only the illusion of control while eroding the foundation of improvement.</p> <p>Delegating authority, empowering creativity, and releasing unnecessary control are not signs of weakness; they are</p> <p>hallmarks of change-ready leadership. If healthcare organizations want improvement that lasts, leaders must</p> <p>empower staff to lead from their current positions. Sustainable quality depends not on rigid oversight, but on trust,</p> <p>flexibility, and a willingness to share control.</p> 2024-11-01T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 https://nicpd.ac.in/ojs-/index.php/gjmedph/article/view/4206 Assessing the Impact of Ommaya Reservoirs in Combination with External Ventricular Drainage Therapy on Intraventricular Haemorrhage:A Retrospective Analysis 2025-12-08T16:34:05+00:00 B V S RAMAN, ramanbhavana@gmail.com B Hayagriva Rao Professor bhrao64@gmail.com Yeshwanth V, P Yaswanthv235@gmail.com <p><strong>Introduction </strong></p> <p>Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is a serious complication of various neurological conditions that can lead to</p> <p>increased intracranial pressure, hydrocephalus, and poor neurological outcomes. External ventricular drainage</p> <p>(EVD) systems are commonly used for managing IVH by draining cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood from the</p> <p>ventricles of the brain. However, the optimal EVD system for managing IVH is still debated. This study aims to</p> <p>evaluate the influence of combining Ommaya reservoirs with external ventricular drainage (EVD) therapy in</p> <p>patients diagnosed with intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH).</p> <p><strong>Methods </strong></p> <p>A total of 20 patients with IVH were included in this retrospective study, with 10 patients receiving dual catheters</p> <p>(EVD with Ommaya) and 10 patients receiving single catheter EVD. The patient characteristics, IVH volume, mean</p> <p>arterial pressure (MAP), amount of CSF drainage, modified Graeb score (mGS), Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS)</p> <p>score, duration of drainage, ICU length of stay, and mortality rate were compared between the two groups. Data</p> <p>Analysis was performed to compare outcomes, clinical markers, and imaging findings between the Ommaya</p> <p>utilized and Ommaya-unused groups. Anticipated findings will shed light on the significance of Ommaya reservoir</p> <p>utilization in conjunction with EVD therapy for IVH patients. Additionally, the study aims to identify specific clinical</p> <p>markers that can aid in the decision-making process regarding Ommaya reservoir implantation.</p> <p><strong>Results </strong></p> <p>Both groups had similar demographic and clinical features in this trial comparing dual catheters (EVD with</p> <p>Ommaya) against single catheter drainage for intraventricular hemorrhage. The IVH volume was larger in the dual</p> <p>catheter group (EVD with Ommaya), while the MAP was lower. The dual catheter group had a considerably lower</p> <p>mean mGS score at the follow-up scan than the single catheter group. The dual catheter group required no</p> <p>repositioning and had a shorter period of drainage. The dual catheter group had a decreased mortality rate and a</p> <p>higher GOS score after 30 days. The reduction in mGS score was considerable in the dual catheter group, particularly</p> <p>in individuals with mGS scores ranging from 15 to 25. Considering the fact that the sample size was small and no</p> <p>statistical analysis was provided.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion </strong></p> <p>Dual catheter EVD systems may be more effective than single catheter systems for managing IVH, as they were</p> <p>associated with a greater reduction in mGS score, higher GOS score, shorter duration of drainage, and lower</p> <p>mortality rate. and less repositioning/recatherization However, greater sample size studies and statistical analysis</p> <p>are required to corroborate these findings.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> 2024-11-01T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 https://nicpd.ac.in/ojs-/index.php/gjmedph/article/view/4207 In Utero Exposure to Preeclampsia and Cardiometabolic Risk: A Review of Literature 2025-12-08T16:38:56+00:00 Chuma Mabuto 216050464@mywsu.ac.za Ebenezer Ackah 216050464@mywsu.ac.za Constance Rufaro Sewani-Rusike, 216050464@mywsu.ac.za Benedicta Ngwenchi Nkeh-Chungag 216050464@mywsu.ac.za Charles Businge 216050464@mywsu.ac.za Nonstikelelo Gubu-Ntaba 216050464@mywsu.ac.za Nandipha SotobeMbana 216050464@mywsu.ac.za <p><strong>ABSTRACT </strong></p> <p>Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder that occurs during pregnancy, affecting 3-5% of pregnancies globally and</p> <p>is an independent cardiovascular risk factor for the mother, and recent studies reveal that offspring of affected</p> <p>pregnancies may also have an increased risk for developing cardiovascular diseases (Karrar and Hong, 2022). This</p> <p>is referred to as foetal programming and is said to be related to several factors (Davies et al., 2017). Therefore, this</p> <p>study focuses on the cardiometabolic risks endured by offspring of preeclamptic pregnancies</p> 2024-11-01T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 https://nicpd.ac.in/ojs-/index.php/gjmedph/article/view/4209 Endoscopic versus Microscopic Type 1 tympanoplasty – Comparison of surgical outcomes 2025-12-08T16:55:48+00:00 Sidrah Mirza sidramirza@gmail.com Shweta Baviskar sidramirza@gmail.com Amol Khale sidramirza@gmail.com Surabhi Nikam sidramirza@gmail.com Sanika Kalaskar sidramirza@gmail.com <p><strong>Objective </strong></p> <p>This study aims to compare the surgical outcomes of type 1 tympanoplasty performed with endoscopic and</p> <p>microscopic techniques. It aims to compare the outcomes in terms of hearing restoration and graft success rates. It</p> <p>also assesses differences in postoperative pain and operative time.</p> <p><strong>Methods </strong></p> <p>A prospective study conducted over 8 months included 84 patients, divided into two groups: 42 undergoing</p> <p>microscopic tympanoplasty (postaural approach) and 42 undergoing endoscopic tympanoplasty (endomeatal</p> <p>approach), using temporalis fascia graft. Preoperative and postoperative hearing were evaluated through pure tone</p> <p>audiometry. Post operative hearing improvement and graft success was assessed at 3 months. Postoperative pain</p> <p>was measured using a numerical rating scale at immediate and 1-week follow-ups.</p> <p><strong>Results </strong></p> <p>Both groups demonstrated similar graft success rates (microscopic 95.23%, endoscopic 92.86%) with no significant</p> <p>difference in hearing improvement or air-bone gap closure. However, the endoscopic group had significantly</p> <p>shorter operation times (mean 65.12 minutes) and less postoperative pain (immediate and at 1-week follow-up)</p> <p>compared to the microscopic group (mean operation time 82.17 minutes, higher pain scores).</p> <p><strong>Conclusion </strong></p> <p>Endoscopic tympanoplasty offers comparable graft success and hearing outcomes to the microscopic approach</p> <p>while providing the advantages of shorter operation time and reduced postoperative pain. These findings support</p> <p>the growing preference for endoscopic techniques in minimally invasive middle ear surgeries.</p> 2025-12-08T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025