Introduction Tobacco use remains one of the most pressing global public health challenges, contributing substantially to the incidence of preventable diseases and premature mortality. In Saudi Arabia, tobacco consumption continues to rise, with an estimated 21.4% of adults identified as smokers and approximately 70,000 tobacco-related deaths reported annually. Methods This cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted in accordance with the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines developed by the National Institute for Health. A structured questionnaire comprising 26 items was administered and divided into two main sections: Section A focused on participants’ demographic characteristics, while Section B assessed the knowledge and attitudes of community pharmacists regarding the provision of smoking cessation services. A total of 206 community pharmacists participated in this study. Results The findings revealed that 89.8% (n = 185) of the respondents felt confident in advising customers who smoke to quit, indicating a high level of professional self-assurance in delivering smoking cessation counseling. Moreover, approximately 80% (n = 166) of the pharmacists reported awareness of the availability of smoking cessation clinics in Saudi Arabia and acknowledged the possibility of referring smokers to these specialized facilities for further treatment. Discussion Most pharmacists (89.8%) felt confident in advising smokers to quit, and about 80% were aware of smoking cessation clinics in Saudi Arabia and could refer smokers for further treatment. Conclusion Overall, the study demonstrated that community pharmacists in Saudi Arabia possess considerable knowledge and confidence in promoting smoking cessation initiatives. Nonetheless, the results also suggest that further evaluation and enhancement of pharmacists’ understanding of smoking cessation therapies are necessary to optimize their role in tobacco control and patient support.
IntroductionThe rising burden of comorbidities of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus, particularly in resource-limited settings, is the cause of high mortality rates. To curb the mortality rates and improve health outcomes of people living with HIV and NCDs, involvement of patients and the health care professionals in patient-centred care interventions aimed at improving the health outcomes is key. The objective was to systematically review and synthesise the evidence on the use of Experience-Based Co-Design (EBCD) with patients and healthcare professionals in the development of interventions to integrate HIV and NCD care within healthcare settings. MethodsA systematic review was conducted using five electronic databases (Scopus, Proquest, PubMed, Web of Science, and Ebscohost) covering data from January 2014 to December 2024. Among 591 identified records, 10 studies met the eligibility criteria. The review followed PRISMA guidelines and was registered on Covidence (26 February 2025). ResultsNone of the reviewed studies fully implemented EBCD; partial patient engagement features were observed. Most interventions were expert-driven and disease-specific, developed through integration of research findings rather than co-design, due to resource constraints, limited funding, and lack of researcher skills in EBCD. DiscussionThis highlights a gap in participatory approaches for integrated HIV-NCD care. The absence of EBCD in intervention development highlights the need for frameworks that actively engage patients and healthcare professionals in designing integrated, patient-centred care models. ConclusionStrengthening participatory approaches could enhance health outcomes and reduce mortality among individuals living with multimorbidity in resource-constrained settings.
IntroductionLeft Ventricular Aneurysm (LVA) is a serious complication of myocardial infarction that can lead to impaired ventricular function and life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Data on perioperative arrhythmic patterns and associated clinical factors following LVA resection, particularly with long-term follow-up, remain limited. We aimed to characterize perioperative arrhythmias and their clinical correlates following surgical LVA resection with mid-term follow-up. Materials and MethodsRetrospective cross-sectional study with longitudinal ECG and echocardiographic follow-up, 29 patients who underwent surgical LVA resection between 2011 and 2022 at a tertiary cardiac center were evaluated. Demographic characteristics, comorbidities, lipid status, perioperative complications, Electrocardiographic (ECG) findings, echocardiographic parameters, length of hospital stay, and mortality were extracted from medical records and follow-up assessments. ECGs were analyzed preoperatively, immediately after surgery, during Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission, and at ward admission. Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction (LVEF) was assessed longitudinally during ICU admission, at ward admission, and at 6 months and 2 years postoperatively. ResultsPreoperative ventricular arrhythmias were observed in 34.5% of patients, while atrial fibrillation was present in 17.2%, with no significant sex-based differences. Postoperative arrhythmias occurred in 20.7% of patients. While 72.4% of patients had normal ECGs at ICU admission, observed abnormalities were significantly more frequent among male patients (p = 0.040). Dyslipidemia was associated in univariable analysis with abnormal postoperative ECG findings during ICU and ward admission (p = 0.012 and p = 0.047, respectively). Mean LVEF improved significantly from 33.4% ± 8.1% preoperatively to 42.9% ± 6.9% at 2-year follow-up (p < 0.05). Six patients died during the early postoperative period, primarily due to low cardiac output syndrome and cardiac tamponade; two additional deaths were identified during follow-up, with undetermined causes. DiscussionSurgical resection of LVA is associated with significant improvement in left ventricular function; however, cardiac arrhythmias remain relatively common in the perioperative period. Male sex and dyslipidemia appear to be associated with a higher burden of postoperative ECG abnormalities. ConclusionThese findings underscore the importance of meticulous perioperative monitoring and risk-factor optimization, and closer monitoring of cardiovascular risk factors may be warranted following LVA resection.
IntroductionOsteoporosis is a prevalent disease among menopausal women. Adopting healthy behaviors and lifestyles is one of the important ways to prevent this health problem. Despite the positive effects of these behaviors in preventing and controlling it, women's practice of these behaviors remains low. Therefore, identifying the causes of this is essential, and using health promotion models and theories is helpful. The present study aimed to predict osteoporosis preventive behaviors through the Health Belief Model (HBM) among menopausal women. MethodsThis study is a descriptive and correlational study that was conducted on postmenopausal women aged 50 and older referring to health centers in Urmia, located in northwest Iran. The study aimed to to determine the factors affecting women's behavior based on the HBM. The sample size was estimated to be 200 people based on the G-Power software, and the samples were selected and entered into the study using a multi-stage random sampling method. Data were collected using a valid and reliable three-part questionnaire: demographic information; a standard tool for knowledge and HBM constructs; and the two domains of dietary habits and physical activity from the Walker Lifestyle Questionnaire as preventive behaviors for osteoporosis. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26. ResultsThe results indicated a positive and significant relationship between HBM components and osteoporosis preventive behaviors. Regression analysis revealed that perceived susceptibility (β = 0.137, p = 0.031), perceived benefits (β = 0.169, p = 0.006), self-efficacy (β = 0.182, p = 0.005), knowledge (β = 0.329, p = 0.001), age (β = –0.178, p = 0.002), and education (β = 0.184, p = 0.002) emerged as significant predictors, collectively accounting for 42.5% of the variance in preventive behaviors. DiscussionThe HBM effectively predicts preventive behaviors for osteoporosis. As such, perceived susceptibility, perceived benefits, perceived self-efficacy, and women's knowledge were factors affecting women's behavior. ConclusionIt is recommended that health educators use this model to design educational interventions to enhance osteoporosis preventive behaviors among menopausal women.
IntroductionThe nutritional status of children is one of the major issues in CHD, which is considered an important factor in mortality and morbidity. This study aimed to determine the relationships among anthropometric indicators, demographic information, and the severity of heart disease with nutritional status in CHD. MethodsThis cross-sectional analytical study was conducted using a convenience sampling method on 127 children aged 1 to 17 years who were diagnosed with CHD in northeastern Iran. Data were collected using a demographic information questionnaire, a researcher-made checklist of anthropometric indices, a nutritional status assessment checklist with Z-score index, a checklist of examinations and clinical assessments performed by pediatric cardiologists, and data obtained from the Quantum Magnetic Resonance Analyzer. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics in SPSS-20 software at a significance level of P<0.05. ResultsResults found that cyanotic CHD was the most prevalent anomaly (60.6%), and most children (76.4%) had appropriate birth weights for gestational age. Greater severity of heart failure was associated with lower weight-for-age and height-for-age Z-scores (P=0.003 and P=0.031, respectively). Higher parental educational attainment was positively associated with height and mid-upper arm circumference (P=0.008 and P=0.022). DiscussionMalnutrition is frequently observed among children with CHD. Malnutrition significantly impacts the anthropometric parameters, specifically the weight and height, of children with CHD. ConclusionTargeted nutritional interventions are recommended to mitigate the risk of malnutrition and facilitate the attainment of optimal weight and height.
IntroductionWilliams-Beuren syndrome (WS) is a rare genetic condition caused by a microdeletion on chromosome 7q11.23. Gastrointestinal symptoms are relatively common in WS, but recurrent, intractable, or cyclic vomiting as an initial or dominant presenting feature is uncommon and can significantly delay diagnosis. Case PresentationWe describe an 11-month-old male infant who presented to the emergency department with persistent vomiting and signs of dehydration. The child had been admitted to the hospital three times over the preceding two months for identical complaints, with vomiting recurring shortly after each discharge. On examination, he displayed the classic dysmorphic facial features of Williams syndrome, including a broad forehead, periorbital fullness, stellate iris pattern, wide mouth, and full lips. A grade 3/6 systolic murmur was audible. Laboratory evaluation revealed severe hypercalcemia (serum calcium 14.2 mg/dL). Echocardiography confirmed supravalvular aortic stenosis with the typical “hourglass” appearance. Initial management of the hypercalcemia with intravenous fluids, furosemide, and corticosteroids proved largely ineffective. Introduction of cinacalcet, a calcimimetic agent, resulted in a rapid and sustained normalization of serum calcium levels. The clinical diagnosis of Williams-Beuren syndrome was made on the basis of the characteristic phenotype and cardiovascular findings; fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) or chromosomal microarray confirmation was not performed in this acute setting. ConclusionThis case illustrates that Williams-Beuren syndrome should be considered in the differential diagnosis of infants presenting with unexplained, recurrent, or cyclic vomiting accompanied by hypercalcemia. Prompt recognition of the syndrome is essential, as targeted management-particularly the use of cinacalcet for refractory hypercalcemia-can lead to rapid clinical improvement and help prevent long-term complications.
Introduction The overall causality of modern public health, especially in the field covered by the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR), can be attributed to the Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). The review lists the adopted strategies, compares the successful and failed cases, and outlines the endemic setbacks to achieving global agenda progress. Methods Based on PRISMA, a literature search was conducted to identify articles published between January 2010 and December 2024 across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The studies that would have met the eligibility criteria are those concerning the WHO-specific categories of the NCDs and their risk determinants or interventions to control the disease as part of the EMR jurisdictions. Results There was a total of fifty studies that met the inclusion criteria. Countries that had strong national action plans, that is, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, were observed to bear significant similarity in WHO goals, particularly in tobacco prevention and screening measures. Contrary to that, in Cairo (Egypt) and Baghdad (Iraq), NCD mortality was still high (76 and 78.4, respectively). Kuwait (37.8%) and Qatar (36.5) had the highest levels of obesity, and Saudi Arabia had the highest levels of diabetes prevalence (15.3). Discussion Though implementation of policy directives has spread throughout the EMR, they are not strictly enforced or maintained. Conclusion Though there is gradual progress, EMR countries are still vastly below the WHO vision of 2025 to see a 25 per cent reduction of premature deaths due to NCDs. To mobilise effective action, the synthesis of country-specific and measurable evidence is of paramount importance.
Introduction Spiritual health is recognized as a fundamental component of overall well-being. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between spiritual health and the prevalence of depression and anxiety among students. Methods A cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical design was employed, including 201 students at Jiroft, Iran, in 2023. Data were collected using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and the Paloutzian and Ellison Spiritual Health Questionnaire. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, correlation coefficients, and tests for significance at a 0.05 level. Results The mean spiritual health score among participants indicated a moderate level of spiritual health. The average depression and anxiety scores reflected no or minimal levels of these disorders among the students. Statistical analysis revealed a significant inverse relationship between spiritual health and both anxiety (correlation coefficient = -0.246) and depression (correlation coefficient = -0.473). Higher spiritual health was associated with lower levels of depression and anxiety. Additionally, spiritual health was significantly higher among students aged 19–24, females, and those in academic semesters 4 to 7. Anxiety and depression were more prevalent among nursing students, those in later academic semesters, and students whose parents were retired or whose mothers had lower educational attainment. Discussion The findings demonstrated that greater spiritual health is associated with reduced levels of depression and anxiety among medical students. Conclusion The results of this study underscore the potential protective role of spiritual well-being in mental health and highlight the importance of integrating spiritual health promotion into student support programs to enhance resilience against psychological distress.
Introduction/Objective A community health assessment conducted with the Washington West Africa Center identified ending domestic violence (DV) as a priority within the West African immigrant population in the greater Seattle area. This study seeks to understand the intersecting factors that increase the risk of DV and identify strategies to inform prevention and policy. Methods This cross-sectional qualitative study utilized the principles of community - based participatory research, involving in-depth interviews with 32 immigrant African women who survived DV from male intimate partners in Washington state (n=31) or acted as a key informant of DV (n=1). The interview transcripts were analyzed using descriptive thematic analytical methods. Results All participants experienced their first DV episode before age 26, typically during cohabitation, pregnancy, or childrearing with partners aged 26–30 years. Duration of DV ranged from 3 to 36 months. Key facilitators for exiting DV relationships included social support (50%), safety concerns for self or children (31.6%), economic empowerment (~8%), and DV education (5.3%). Perceived love by survivors was the most common reason for remaining in abusive relationships (58%), followed by fear of law enforcement involvement (18%). Stigma and shame were major barriers to seeking help. Discussion Study findings were similar to the regional existing literature of risk factors and common stressors that increase DV, but strategies to prevent it were distinct to this demographic. Conclusion Interventions leveraging cultural values like community networks of social support, empowerment and family values should be prioritized for effective DV prevention in close-knit African immigrant communities.
Introduction Loss to follow-up (LTFU) has been reported as a recurrent challenge affecting the success of antiretroviral treatment among HIV-infected patients in low- and middle-income countries. Additionally, loss of follow-up is a significant problem associated with increased treatment failure, which can be presented through clinical, immunological, and virological failure. Lastly, LTFU exacerbates the rates of morbidity, mortality, and drug resistance among people living with HIV. The study explores factors associated with loss to follow-up among patients living with HIV in selected public clinics under the DIMAMO surveillance area in the Capricorn district of Limpopo province. Material and Methods A qualitative research approach, particularly Phenomenology, was adopted to explore and understand the experiences of registered nurses and community health workers who work with patients on antiretroviral treatment at the selected public clinics. Twenty-eight (28) participants were purposively selected. Furthermore, data were collected using semi-structured interviews. Lastly, data was analysed using Delve narrative analysis as guided by Delve and Limpaecher. Results Following the process of data analysis, the study revealed that patients living with HIV often face diverse internal conflicts and significant barriers leading to loss of follow-up. The following themes emerged: 1.) Patient-related factors identified in a form of denial related to perceptions of HIV, perceptions of being healed or healthy, and lastly, not accepting responsibility for HIV health status. 2.) Significant barriers associated with disengagement from HIV care among patients were identified in the form of non-disclosure of HIV status to significant others, fear of stigmatisation, perceived breach of confidentiality, and lastly, resistance to or non-use of community healthcare interventions. Discussion In summary, the study identified the key challenges affecting HIV care, including internal conflicts, which manifested in the form of denial, and misconceptions about health status as reported by the participants. Thus, the significant barriers to care disengagement included non-disclosure of HIV status, fear of stigma, perceived breaches of confidentiality, and resistance to community healthcare interventions. Conclusion Furthermore, these findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to improve patient retention rates. Notably, a comprehensive training program and information guide for healthcare providers can enhance their ability to support antiretroviral patients and improve treatment adherence and health outcomes.
Introduction COVID-19 was declared a pandemic as of 23 rd October 2020, followed by multiple waves, each driven by evolving SARS-CoV-2 variants. Comorbidities and age were known to influence COVID-19 outcomes adversely. This study will describe the demographic and clinical characteristics of COVID-19 patients hospitalized at public healthcare facilities. Methods A descriptive, analytical cross-sectional study was conducted using retrospective medical records of patients admitted with confirmed COVID-19 to five public hospitals in Bojanala District, North West Province, South Africa, from May to July 2020. All laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 patients admitted during this period were included. Descriptive statistics summarised patient profiles, while inferential analyses, including Chi-square tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, and multivariable logistic regression, were used to identify associations with mortality. Results Medical records of 289 patients were included; a mean age of 45 years was observed, and most were male 57.1%. Hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and HIV were the most common comorbidities. Patients with two or more comorbidities experienced significantly higher mortality 46.2% compared to those with none or one. Multivariate analysis revealed that the use of antibiotics and anticoagulants remained independently associated with increased risk of death, even after adjusting for age and comorbidity burden. Conversely, age and comorbidity count lost significance after adjustment, suggesting their predictive effect may be mediated through clinical severity and treatment intensity. Discussion Globally, variations in findings were noted in studies. Age, male gender, and multimorbidity were significant independent variables associated with severe COVID-19 outcomes and mortality. In most studies, older age and male gender were significant factors associated with mortality. The study reports that the correlation between the use of antibiotics, anticoagulants, and mortality was likely the result of these interventions functioning as indicators for advanced clinical severity rather than direct contributors to adverse outcomes. Conclusion Length of hospital stay was significantly shorter for patients who died compared to those who recovered. Emphasis on early screening of high-risk COVID-19 patients in settings with limited resources is advised, particularly older male patients with multimorbidity, including hypertension, diabetes, and HIV.
Introduction This study examined the relationship between attachment styles and contraceptive intent among female University of Limpopo students in Polokwane, South Africa. The primary hypotheses proposed positive associations between secure attachment and high contraceptive intent, as well as varying relationships for avoidant and anxious attachment styles. Methods A cross-sectional correlational survey design was utilized to examine the association between attachment styles and contraceptive intent among female university students. A total of 207 students were approached, of whom 180 met eligibility criteria, provided consent, and completed the questionnaire (response rate = 87%). Multinomial logistic regression assessed relationships between attachment styles (secure, avoidant, anxious) and three levels of contraceptive intent (low, moderate, high). Results Among 180 participants (mean age = 21.4 ± 2.3 years), 41.1% reported secure, 31.7 % anxious, and 27.2% avoidant attachment. Contraceptive intent was high in 35.6%, moderate in 39.4%, and low in 25%. Multinomial logistic regression showed that anxious attachment positively predicted high contraceptive intent (B = 0.913, p = 0.042), while avoidant attachment predicted low intent (B = –0.756, p = 0.038). Pseudo R 2 values (Cox & Snell = R 2 0.023; Nagelkerke = R 2 0.116) indicated weak explanatory power. These findings suggest that while attachment styles shape emotional dynamics surrounding contraceptive decision-making, contextual and relational factors exert stronger influence, highlighting the need for integrated psychosocial interventions in student sexual-health programmes. Discussion Although the overall model was not statistically significant, distinct patterns emerged: anxious attachment was linked to high contraceptive intent, while avoidant attachment predicted lower intent. These findings suggest that attachment insecurity may shape reproductive decision-making. However, broader psychological and contextual factors likely play a more influential role than attachment style alone. Conclusion Attachment styles may not be strong predictors of contraceptive behaviour among this population. The study highlights the complexity of reproductive decision-making and the need for further research that includes additional psychological and contextual variables. Future studies should explore diverse populations to better understand the nuanced factors influencing contraceptive intent.
IntroductionThe Mental Health Care Act 17 of 2002, referred to hereafter as the Act, is being implemented with significant difficulty in the majority of provinces of the Republic of South Africa. Effective Mental Health Review Boards (MHRBs) are essential to ensuring the Act is implemented efficiently. However, the majority of MHRBs in South Africa are dysfunctional, and some provinces lack them. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the perceptions of MHRB members regarding the implementation of the Act in the North West Province (NWP) of South Africa (SA). MethodsA qualitative-exploratory-descriptive and contextual research design was used to explore and describe the perceptions of MHRB members regarding implementation of the Act. Since there were only a few MHRB members in NWP, SA, a single Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was conducted with 6 MHRB members from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health subdirectorate of the North West Department of Health. Maguire and Delahunt’s six steps of thematic analysis were used to analyse data. ResultsTwo themes emerged from this study: factors contributing to poor implementation of the Act and strategies to improve its implementation. DiscussionThe findings reveal systemic failures in the implementation of the Act, including staff shortages, incomplete documentation, and compromised MHRB independence, consistent with challenges reported in other South African provinces. Addressing these barriers requires urgent policy reform, increased resource allocation, and continuous training of mental health care practitioners and MHRB members. ConclusionThe findings of this study highlight a critical disconnection between the legislative mandate and the capacity of the existing health system. The study suggests that without addressing systemic resource deficits and strengthening the structural independence of the MHRB, effective implementation of the Act and the protection of the rights of mental health service users will remain unattainable.
Introduction The use of Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission services plays an important role in public health because it helps to prevent HIV transmission from mothers to infants. Accessibility of these services remains a challenge, especially in countries with high prevalence rates. A framework to improve the use of EMTCT services is helpful to ensure that children born to women living with HIV remain HIV-negative. This study aimed to develop and validate a framework to improve the utilization of EMTCT services among pregnant and lactating women in Gauteng Province of South Africa. Methods Primary data were collected from 681 pregnant and lactating women utilizing EMTCT services in the City of Ekurhuleni at the selected facilities. The qualitative and quantitative data provided a deeper understanding of the barriers to EMTCT utilization and perceived strategies to improve its utilization. Results The study revealed barriers that contributed to poor EMTCT utilization, which include, a lack of transport costs to the facility, staff attitude, long waiting times, gender-based violence, and denial of HIV status. To mitigate these barriers, the EMTCT framework was developed using the Health Belief Model and Build, Overcome, Explore, Minimize model, incorporating the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) findings. Discussion The developed framework has clearly defined objectives, activities, responsibilities, and outcomes, which serve as practical tools for implementation. The proposed framework was validated through consultations with stakeholders and the Delphi technique. Experts and stakeholders participated in the process of validating and confirming the effectiveness of the developed framework to improve the utilization of EMTCT services in Gauteng Province. This study identified practical strategies such as health education, peer support, male involvement, and the use of the Treatment Navigation Model. The framework provides a clear, context-specific approach to strengthening health systems and getting closer to eliminating mother-to-child HIV transmission. Conclusion The study found that the utilization of EMTCT services by pregnant and lactating women's is heavily influenced by social and economic realities such as insufficient awareness, partner abuse, and financial reliance.
Introduction Universities bear the responsibility of preparing graduates with the competency to identify essential needs in evolving societal environments and deliver optimal services through the application of diverse problem-solving methodologies. The present study was conducted with the objective of examining the relationship between problem-solving skills, a creative educational climate, and social skills among students at Shahroud University of Medical Sciences (ShMU). Methods In this cross-sectional study, 260 students from various medical science disciplines were examined in 2025 using questionnaires assessing social skills, creative educational climate, and problem-solving skills. Data were analysed using Chi-square tests and multiple regression analysis. Results The mean age of the study participants was 21.7 ± 2.9 years. The mean score for creative educational climate was 176.7 ± 3.1 (above average), problem-solving skills was 55.8 ± 7.9 (at average level), and social skills was 89.8 ± 17.6 (at average level). Only 86 participants (33.1%) demonstrated high social skills. Ninety-three participants (35.8%) possessed reliable problem-solving skills. No significant differences were observed in problem-solving skill levels based on gender, faculty, education level, monthly household income, economic activity concurrent with education, father's occupation, or academic semester. In the final multivariable regression model, social skills (standardized beta = 0.29, p -value < 0.001) and interest in academic major (standardized beta = 0.22, p -value < 0.001) emerged as the most significant predictors of problem-solving skills. Discussion Problem-solving skills and social skills mean scores among students were at moderate levels, and social skills demonstrated a significant impact on problem-solving abilities. Approximately two-thirds of students lacked reliable problem-solving skills. Conclusion It is recommended that substantial improvements in students' problem-solving skills can be achieved through the implementation of targeted interventions, including educational workshops on learning styles and methodologies, problem-solving and Problem-Based Learning (PBL) classes and workshops for both students and faculty, modifications to learning environments and faculty assessment procedures, and social skills training programs.
Background Studies have shown that the needs of patients with dual diagnosis are complex, and that professional nurses providing effective nursing care to them require specialized knowledge, skills, and attitudes. However, research on the experiences of patients diagnosed with dual diagnosis regarding nursing care is limited, and their experiences are unknown in Ghana. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of patients diagnosed with dual diagnosis regarding the nursing care they receive in psychiatric hospitals in Ghana. Methods An exploratory-descriptive qualitative research design was used to conduct this study. Sixteen participants with dual diagnoses were recruited for the study. A purposive sampling technique was used to select potential participants. Individual, semi-structured interviews were used to collect data from the patients. The researcher and co-coder independently used thematic analysis to analyse the data. Results Three main themes emerged, namely (1) patients’ experiences of nursing care rendered at psychiatric units, (2) challenges experienced by patients diagnosed with dual diagnosis, and (3) recommendations for improving care of patients diagnosed with dual diagnosis. Discussion The findings stress the dual reality of psychiatric nursing care for patients with dual diagnosis, marked by both positive experiences of holistic, supportive interventions and negative experiences shaped by stigma, structural barriers, and lack of collaboration. The study highlights the urgent need for systemic reforms, including capacity building for staff, infrastructural improvements, patient-centred practices, and integration of recovery-oriented models. By addressing these gaps, psychiatric nursing care could shift closer to a model that fully respects the dignity, autonomy, and holistic needs of individuals with dual diagnosis, thereby enhancing both clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. Conclusion Patients with dual diagnosis experience both supportive, holistic nursing care and systemic challenges in psychiatric hospitals in Ghana. Positive therapeutic engagement fosters recovery, yet negative attitudes, limited involvement, and poor infrastructure hinder recovery. Integrating clinical competence, empathy, patient autonomy, and adequate environments is vital for achieving sustainable, patient-centred rehabilitation outcomes.
Introduction Low Birth Weight (LBW) is a global health issue, including in Indonesia. LBW contributes to the loss of healthy life opportunities among children under five. This study aims to assess the burden and potential loss of healthy life opportunities among children under five due to LBW in Indonesia. Methods The study used a systematic analysis of the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 to analyze the burden of disease due to LBW in Indonesia. Results The burden of disease among children under five in Indonesia has decreased compared to the previous year. However, it remains high and concentrated in eastern Indonesia. The burden of LBW is attributed to Years of Life Lost (YLLs) rather than Years Lived with Disability (YLDs), accounting for 99.11%. Infants under 28 days have higher Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) than other age groups, with 863,365 DALYs per 100,000 children under five (95% UI = 691,784.16–1,055,370.99), and boys have higher DALYs than girls. Most of the DALYs associated with LBW are caused by neonatal disorders, with a proportion of 94.27%. Nationally, LBW accounts for 69.68% of neonatal disorders. Nearly three million years of healthy life opportunities were lost due to LBW in 2021. Discussion Low Birth Weight (LBW) is the leading contributor to DALYs among Indonesian children under five, with the highest burden in central and eastern regions, where healthcare access and service quality remain uneven. Conclusion LBW remains a significant issue in Indonesia. Many programs have been established to address this problem; however, they have not been implemented optimally and have yet to effectively resolve the issue. Developing and perfecting health programs with multisector collaboration should be prioritized to reduce the burden of LBW in Indonesia.
Rajasthan is the largest state in India in terms of land area, and its expansive and diverse landscape complicates the provision of healthcare. There are a lot of rural or remote village inhabitants who are not easily accessible, particularly during times of disasters. Adequate roads and other obstacles usually render the transportation of supplies and collection of diagnostic samples sluggish, resulting in care delays. Today, a new drone technology can deliver medicines, vaccines, diagnostic samples, and emergency supplies in these problematic regions rapidly and safely. In this article, the author(s) discusses the methods in which drones can be used to enhance healthcare in Rajasthan. Drones have the ability to deliver supplies to mothers, newborns, and children within the limited access sources in the region, thus enhancing health outcomes. They also assist the hospitals and clinics in diagnosing and treating tuberculosis faster by providing samples and medications at the right time. Drones can fly over damaged or blocked roads to provide people without access to aid in times of emergency with life-saving supplies. The drone corridor established at Redcliffe Labs, and similar ones in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, demonstrate that drone-based healthcare logistics may be efficient. Such projects have simplified access to medical care, shortened the time of traveling, and boosted the local economy. With such a technology, Rajasthan will be able to construct a more accessible and sustainable healthcare system, such that even the most remote regions will be afforded quality care. According to the article, drones can be a good alternative to bridging healthcare gaps and enhancing the well-being of the population in remote regions.
Introduction/Objectives In many developing countries, communities face adversity and limited resources, creating a pressing need for innovative strategies to foster social cohesion. Positive and trusting relationships enable individuals and communities to build stronger networks and more cohesive social environments. In South Africa, families have been identified as central to strengthening social cohesion; however, the mechanisms through which this occurs require further exploration. This study aimed to examine the factors contributing to social cohesion within rural communities and to assess the relevance of the human capability of affiliation in fostering cohesion. Methods A descriptive qualitative design was employed, using semi-structured interviews with 19 participants from two rural South African towns, Lambert’s Bay and Philippolis. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and thematically analysed to identify common patterns and key insights. Results Two major themes emerged. The first, perceptions of social cohesion, included three sub-themes: community support and relations , community participation , and collective efficacy . The second, affiliation as a social capability, comprised three sub-themes: mutual sense of belonging , social network resources , and transference of values . Discussion The findings indicate that affiliation and social cohesion in rural communities are strongly shaped by the quality of social interactions and relationships among community members. Furthermore, Nussbaum’s Human Capabilities Approach, particularly the capability of affiliation, provides a useful framework for understanding and enhancing cohesion in the South African context. Conclusion These findings highlight the importance of social policies and intervention programmes that strengthen social networks and promote affiliation as a key capability. Future policy development should prioritise initiatives that cultivate positive relationships, mutual support, and community participation, thereby enhancing social cohesion and improving the well-being of rural communities.
