BACKGROUND:Nepal Government Health Insurance enrollment has increased, and sustaining continuous coverage remains difficult. Health insurance continuity is changed by social, household, and service-related factors. This study assessed trends in continuity among insured households in Gandaki Province and the associated factors. METHODS:A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 411 insured individuals. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Participants' characteristics and continuity patterns were summarized using descriptive statistics. Determinants of continuity in health insurance program were investigated through bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. RESULTS:The mean age of respondents was 46.4 years; most were Hindu and over half had a bachelor's degree or higher. While 92.5% intended to renew their insurance annually, only 16.3% discontinuous enrollment. Discontinuation was primarily due to poor service quality, low perceived need, and limited awareness. Continuity of enrollment was significantly associated with ethnicity (AOR 3.63), source of drinking water (AOR 0.32), female involvement in household health decision-making (AOR 3.63), and use of private health facilities (AOR 0.12). No independent predictors of discontinuation were identified after adjustment. CONCLUSION:The study identified a notable gap between high intentions to renew health insurance and actual continuity of enrollment in Gandaki Province. Although Most respondents intended to renew their insurance. Continuity was influenced by socio-cultural factors, household decision-making, and service utilization, while dropout is driven by system and service delivery challenges. Improving service quality, user experience, benefit alignment, and community awareness is essential for sustaining the program.
BACKGROUND:Upper limb injuries are one of the common pediatric conditions presenting to our orthopedic department. The aim of this study is to identify the cause pattern and demographic characteristics of upper limb injuries in children so that various preventive strategies can be encouraged to reduce their morbidity. METHODS:A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Karnali Academy of Health Sciences after ethical permission from October 2022 to March 2024. An enumerative sampling technique was used. Age, sex, address, side, upper limb anatomical location, time of hospital presentation, mode of injury, seasonal trend, prehospital management and other associated injuries were noted in individual structured proforma. All the data were entered in MS EXCEL and analyzed using version 16 of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences. RESULTS:A total of 437 children were involved in this study. Distal humerus fracture was seen in 149 (28%) patients, whereas distal radius fracture was observed in 131 (24.4 %) patients. Injury was common in children 6-9 years of age (27.5%). There were 313 (71.6%) boys and 124 (28.3%) girls. Delay of > 72 hours in presentation to hospital was noted in 88 (20%) patients. Out of 437 children, 76 (17%) received prehospital management. CONCLUSIONS:Upper limb injuries were prevalent around elbow and wrist joint. Injuries were common in boys and predominant in 6-9 years of age. Fall from cliff, tree, rooftop and ladder were the major mode of injury in our rural context.
BACKGROUND:Alcohol consumption is a significant public health concern worldwide, contributing substantially to disease burden and fatalities, especially among drivers. In Nepal, alcohol use is culturally accepted and widely prevalent, with evidence suggesting high consumption rates among bus drivers. This study aims to investigate alcohol consumption and drinking behaviours among bus drivers and staff's in the Banke district of Nepal. METHODS:A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 195 drivers and staff of public passenger vehicles categorized as "Kha" in Banke district, Nepal. Systematic sampling was employed to select participants. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire adapted from the Nepal STEPS Survey 2019. RESULTS:The study found that 64.6% of participants had ever consumed alcohol, with drivers reporting a higher prevalence (74.4%) compared to other staff (56.9%). Peer pressure (56.9%) was the most common reason for drinking, followed by family influence (20.8%) and curiosity (18.6%). A significant association was found between alcohol consumption and occupation (p = 0.0177), with drivers more likely to consume alcohol. No significant associations were found with age, marital status, education, or ethnicity. CONCLUSIONS:The findings highlight the high prevalence of alcohol consumption among public vehicle operators, driven by peer pressure and influence from family members. The study emphasizes the critical need for public health interventions to prevent alcohol-related harm in Nepal, such as educational campaigns, stricter enforcement of drunken driving laws, and workplace-based activities.
BACKGROUND:The face is an important component of individual identity and undesirable changes in facial skin affect the quality of life of individuals, particularly adolescents (10-19 years). They often experience issues like acne vulgaris due to hormonal changes and the consequent psychosocial impact is higher. In Nepal, adolescents represent 23.6% of the population. This study investigates the prevalence and types of facial dermatoses among Nepalese adolescents attending a tertiary care center. METHODS:A cross-sectional study was conducted among 290 adolescents with facial dermatoses presenting to Nepal Medical College Teaching Hospital from October 2023 to September 2024. Data was collected using a structured proforma and clinical examinations, with additional tests as required. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 16. RESULTS:Of the 290 participants, 48.62% were male and 51.38% female, predominantly aged 17-19 years (36.55%). The majority (66.90%) were Hindu. The most common facial dermatoses were appendageal disorders (43.07%), infections and infestations (20.34%), and eczemas (16.55%). In appendageal disorders, acne vulgaris was most common representing 42.07% of all facial dermatosis. In infections, viral infection was the most common (11.72%) of all facial dermatosis and pityriasis alba was most common (7.59%) of eczemas seen, Males had higher rates of infections (67.80%), while eczemas were more common in females (58.33%). No significant association was found between gender and acne status (p=0.1), severity (p=0.19), bacterial infection (p-value= 0.502), fungal infection (p- value= 1), viral infection (p= 0.85), eczema (p= 0.449), pigmentary disorder (p= 0.071), vascular lesions (p= 1.2) and nevus (p= 0.069). CONCLUSIONS:Facial skin disorders, particularly acne vulgaris, are prevalent among Nepalese adolescents and affect their well-being. The findings accentuate the importance of addressing these conditions to reduce their psychological and social impacts. Further research is needed to explore facial dermatoses across different regions of Nepal.
BACKGROUND:Tuberculosis (TB) is a significant cause of mortality among people living with HIV (PLWH), in Nepal. HIV increases the risk of progression from latent to active TB, increasing mortality. Despite established TB control programs, there is a significant lack of recent data measuring the tuberculosis burden among PLWH specially within the Western region of Nepal. This study was conducted to assess the prevalence of pulmonary tuberculosis among HIV-positive patients attending a tertiary care centre in Gandaki Province, Nepal. METHODS:A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Western Regional Hospital, Pokhara Academy of Health Sciences, from August 2025 to January 2026. First, HIV-positive patients attending the ART clinic were screened, and those aged ?18 years without prior tuberculosis were included. Next, participants were recruited using convenience sampling. After obtaining informed consent, sociodemographic and clinical data were collected through a structured questionnaire and medical record review. Subsequently, CD4 counts were measured using the PIMA CD4 analyser, and sputum samples were examined using Ziehl-Neelsen staining for acid-fast bacilli. Finally, data were analysed using SPSS version 22, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. RESULTS:Prevalence of pulmonary TB was found to be 5.1% among 137 participants. TB co-infection was found to be higher among males and in the 20-29 years and >70 years age groups. TB was more common among those with CD4 counts <200 cells/µL, but was not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS:The study found a 5.1% prevalence of pulmonary TB among PLWH in western Nepal and highlights the need for regular TB screening.
BACKGROUND:The Stroop test assesses attention and cognition. The selective attention assessed by this test varies in bilingualism, education, gender and advancing age. Thus, this study aimed to examine age related changes in reaction time using the Stroop test. METHODS:A cross-sectional study was conducted at Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences between March 2025 and November 2025. A total of 210 participants aged 18 - 80 years were recruited through convenience sampling. Participants were categorized into three age groups: Group 1 (18-30 years), Group 2 (31-60 years), and Group 3 (>60-80 years). Each group consist 70 participants, 35 males and females. Each participant was assessed individually and instructed to read the control, congruent, and incongruent Stroop cards. Reaction time was measured using a digital stopwatch for each task. RESULTS:Reaction time demonstrated a significant age related increase across all task conditions. In the control condition, the mean reaction time increased from 21.19 ± 6.80 seconds to 30.38 ± 10.76 seconds and further to 45.13 ± 12.69 seconds (p < 0.001). A comparable pattern was observed in the congruent condition, where mean reaction times rose from 20.41 ± 5.32 seconds to 28.34 ± 9.27 seconds and 41.27 ± 9.69 seconds (p < 0.001). The most pronounced differences were evident in the incongruent condition, with reaction times increasing markedly from 63.64 ± 30.72 seconds to 104.48 ± 34.25 seconds and 141.32 ± 47.97 seconds (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS:Reaction time is significantly influenced by age. Older participants demonstrated slower responses, indicating an age-related decline in executive function and cognitive processing speed.
Perinatal depression is one of the most neglected public health concerns among reproductive-age women in resource-limited countries, such as Nepal. Currently, there is a lack of standardized protocols to screen and treat women for depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period in Nepal. Additionally, healthcare providers are often not adequately trained to identify and treat perinatal depression. This, coupled with the stigma related to mental health issues and a lack of community resources, can delay the identification and treatment of perinatal depression among women. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the need for routine screening and management guidelines for perinatal depression utilizing standardized and validated instruments and the establishment of community resources to enhance the outcomes of mothers and infants. Perinatal depression is the most common mental health issue among women of reproductive age. Collaborative efforts among healthcare workers and policymakers are essential to enhance maternal and child well-being. Fostering a comprehensive and culturally sensitive program Nepal can take a significant step toward reducing the burden of perinatal depression and improving the quality of life for women and their families. Routine screening for perinatal depression at different time points during pregnancy and postpartum for one year following childbirth as well as implementation of standardized screening and treatment guidelines to improve outcomes for women and their families. Keywords: Infants; perinatal depression; postpartum; pregnancy; screening.
BACKGROUND:Wasting remains a critical public health concern in Nepal, with many children unable to access timely treatment despite national efforts. Evidence on program coverage is lacking in Syangja district. The objective of this study is to identify the underlying factors supporting and hindering the program and to estimate its coverage. METHODS:The Semi-Quantitative Evaluation of Access and Coverage (SQUEAC) approach was implemented in three stages using a mixed-method design. Stage I involved qualitative data collection through key informant interviews (KII), Focus Group Discussions (FGD), and direct observations (DO) in seventeen different locations. Stage II tested a hypothesis about proximity and coverage via small-area surveys using active and door-to-door case finding. Due to inconclusive results, Stage III was not executed. Quantitative data from DHIS-2 and IMAM registers were analyzed for trends and performance indicators, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed and triangulated across participants, types and methods. A Barriers, Boosters, and Questions (BBQ) scoring exercise informed prior coverage estimation. RESULTS:Twelve boosters and twenty-five barriers affecting program access and coverage were identified. Boosters included strong family support, motivated frontline workers, and local government initiatives. Barriers involved stigma, logistical challenges, inconsistent protocol adherence, limited training, and stockouts. The estimated prior coverage was 34.3%. Hypothesis testing on distance-related coverage was inconclusive, halting progression to a wide-area survey. Additional qualitative investigation confirmed gaps in health worker capacity, community engagement, and IMAM protocol compliance. CONCLUSIONS:The IMAM program in Syangja district faces systemic and community-level challenges. To improve coverage, targeted interventions are needed to strengthen service delivery, enhance staff capacity, ensure supply availability, and increase community awareness and engagement.
BACKGROUND:Problem-based learning (PBL) is a student-centered innovative instructional approach in which students define their learning objectives using triggers from predefined problems in case scenarios. The PBL approach in medicine emphasizes real-world problem-solving and develops students' capacity for clinical reasoning. It also contributes to the development of interpersonal and communication skills, promotes self-directed learning (SDL), improves the motivation and enthusiasm of students for their profession and maintains professional ethics and behavior. This study aims to explore the perceptions of undergraduate medical students in a medical college in Nepal toward the PBL tutorial incorporated into the curriculum of Kathmandu University (KU). METHODS:A mixed-methods cross-sectional study was conducted at the Nepal Manipal College of Medical Sciences, Pokhara, Nepal. Qualitative data were gathered through face-to-face semi structured interviews with 12 preclinical undergraduate medical students (six from first and six from second year) selected via convenience sampling. Quantitative data were collected through an online survey of 200 first- and second-year students. Thematic analysis was used for qualitative data whereas Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 for quantitative data. RESULTS:Three themes were identified via thematic analysis: effective learning, the role of tutors, and learning resources. There were 120 students who responded to the online survey with a response rate of 60%. Male students comprised 53.3% of the respondents. Most students agreed that PBL sessions enhanced collaborative learning (n=93, 77.5%) and decision-making skills (n=80, 66.7%). CONCLUSIONS:Students reported that PBL enhanced their clinical reasoning skills, interpersonal communication skills, decision-making skills and promoted SDL. The findings also highlighted the need for updated case scenarios and proper tutor training, which are essential for successful PBL sessions.
BACKGROUND:Obstructive megaureter is one of the leading cause of renal failure. If not resolve on time, surgical correction is necessary. Excision of stricture part and ureteric reimplantation is procedure of choice. Modified shanfield technique is one of the surgical procedures for ureteric reimplantation with good outcome. Those with huge megaureter, excisional tapering of distal ureter to facilitate ureteric reimplantation is mandatory. The objective of this study was to evaluate and assess the outcome of modified shanfield procedure in children with obstructive megaureter. METHODS:A retrospective review of all patients with obstructive megaureter who underwent modified shanfield ureteric reimplantation with or without ureteric tailoring between April 2022 to March 2024 was done. The following were recorded for each patient: age, sex, laterality, ureteral diameter, operative time, hospital stay, outcome and complications. RESULTS:This study consisted of 16 paediatric patients (6 boys and 10 girls) who underwent modified shanfield ureteric reimplantation with or without ureteric tailoring with a mean age of 47 months(12 months to 132 months). Left side repair was performed in 10 patients (62.5%). Mean operative time was 118 minutes. The mean length of hospital was 6.65 days (5- 9 days). None of the patients developed major complications including vesicoureteric reflux or stricture but three cases had febrile urinary tract infection. Follow up ultrasound and Di-ethylene triamine-penta-acetic acid (DTPA) scan was obtained after 6 months postoperatively, which showed improved renal function in DTPA in 14 patients (93.4%). CONCLUSIONS:Modified shanfield ureteric reimplantation is also an alternative procedure for ureteric reimplantation because of its easiness, quick and good outcome. Its implication in paediatric age group is also safe. For better outcome, patient selection and refinement technique should be pursued.
BACKGROUND:The effects of anticoagulation on maternal health in patients with prosthetic valves remain understudied. Our study aims to assess maternal health post-mitral valve replacement (MVR), pregnancy-related complications, maternal mortality, coagulation issues, and fetal and neonatal outcomes post-MVR. METHODS:This exploratory retrospective study, conducted from 2017-2020, included female patients of reproductive age who underwent MVR. Eligible participants were identified from hospital records, and pregnancy-related maternal outcomes were ascertained through review of medical records and a single cross-sectional telephone follow-up conducted between June and August 2023. Data on childbirth, abortion, anticoagulation management, and related complications were collected. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. RESULTS:Of 474 female patients of childbearing age who underwent MVR, 380 responded to our survey. Of these, 18 cases (4.73%) involved pregnancy post-MVR. All pregnant patients were on anticoagulant therapy during pregnancy, with no maternal deaths reported. However, one patient experienced heart failure post-delivery. Bleeding was the most common complication, occurring in 5/18 pregnancies (27.7%). Seven pregnancies resulted in live births (38.8%), with one low birth weight infant. There were no congenital anomalies, but there was one intrauterine fetal death at 7 months and 2 spontaneous abortions. Seven pregnancies were electively terminated, though the reasons were not studied. One pregnancy was ongoing at the time of the study. All but one delivery occurred under medical supervision, with most patients following a warfarin-to-heparin regimen. CONCLUSIONS:In this cohort, 4.73% of women experienced pregnancies post-MVR, with anticoagulation posing significant challenges. The low rate of maternal and fetal complications suggests a need for further research, particularly regarding the high rate of elective terminations.
BACKGROUND:The COVID-19 pandemic has imposed a significant burden on healthcare systems, particularly in resource-limited settings. Laboratory biomarkers may help predict disease outcomes and guide clinical decisions. However, there is limited evidence from Nepal regarding the prognostic value of these markers among hospitalized COVID-19 patients. METHODS:A hospital-based observational study was conducted among 348 RT-PCR-confirmed COVID-19 patients admitted to the COVID ICUs and wards of a tertiary care hospital in Nepal between March 2022 and June 2023. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, haematological parameters, liver and inflammatory markers, urine microscopy, and SARS-CoV-2 molecular gene markers were collected prospectively. Clinical outcomes were categorized as survived or died. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression were used to analyse associations and identify predictors of mortality. RESULTS:Out of the total 348 patients included in the study, 71 patients (20.4%) died, while 277 patients (79.6%) survived. Among 348 patients, significant associations with mortality were observed for lymphopenia (p = .001), neutrophilia (p < .001), elevated ALT (p < .001), elevated AST (p = .001), and positive D-dimer (p < .001). High viral load (Ct value ?20) for E, N, and ORF1ab ab genes was also significantly associated with mortality in univariate analysis. Logistic regression identified D-dimer positivity (OR = 0.027, p = .001) and elevated ALT (OR = 0.356, p = .016) as independent predictors of mortality. CONCLUSIONS:Laboratory parameters, especially lymphocyte count, D-dimer, and ALT levels, are valuable prognostic indicators of clinical outcomes in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Integrating these markers into clinical assessment may enhance early risk stratification and resource allocation.
BACKGROUND:Deficits in maternal knowledge and perceptions can lead to suboptimal infant feeding and incomplete immunization, impacting child health. Given a lack of recent data in culturally diverse Eastern Kathmandu, this study explores pregnant women's knowledge and attitudes regarding infant feeding and immunization. METHODS:A cross-sectional study was conducted among pregnant women at antenatal clinics in Eastern Kathmandu (Feb-Mar 2025). Data were collected via a validated, self-administered questionnaire after informed consent. Multivariable logistic regression identified predictors of knowledge and attitudes on infant feeding and immunization. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS:A total of 371 pregnant women participated. There was high knowledge gap in infant feeding practice 208 (56.1%) and high knowledge in immunization 277 (74.7%). Positive attitudes were observed in 341 (93.2%) intending to exclusively breastfeed and 369 (98.4%) believing immunization is safe. Lower knowledge was linked to younger age (<21 years; AOR 0.27, 95% CI 0.07-0.78) and lack of formal education (AOR 0.22, 95% CI 0.03-0.97 for feeding; AOR 0.11, 95% CI 0.03-0.39 for immunization). Positive attitudes were more common among homemakers (AOR 4.86, 95% CI 2.44-9.93) and women with higher parity (AOR 6.14, 95% CI 2.60-15.61 for third or higher). CONCLUSIONS:The study reveals a significant gap in knowledge regarding infant feeding practices, especially among younger and less educated pregnant women in Eastern Kathmandu. Although attitudes are positive, targeted interventions are needed to address knowledge gaps, especially regarding exclusive breastfeeding.
BACKGROUND:Life-threatening illnesses are rising globally, disproportionately affecting patients from developing countries. The outcome of such illness depends on the critical care services provided to the patients. Constrained resources may impact the quality and outcome of critical care. This study aims to assess the outcomes of critically ill patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a hospital in remote Karnali Province of Nepal Methods: This retrospective observational study reviewed data of ICU patients admitted from July 2021 to July 2022 in Province Hospital, Karnali, Nepal. Analysis included data on socio-demographic information, clinical diagnosis, duration of stay in ICU, use of mechanical ventilator, and outcomes of patient admitted to the ICU. RESULTS:A total of 745 patients were admitted within the specified time period. The most common diagnoses were chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), poisoning, and acute coronary syndrome(ACS). Non-communicable diseases accounted for 60% of admissions. Overall, 17% of patients received support via mechanical ventilation. 50% of patients admitted in the ICU were recovered. The ICU mortality rate was 22 %, whereas 23% left the ICU against the medical advice. Age (p<0.001), ventilator use (p<0.001), and source of admission(p<0.001) were significantly associated with death in the ICU. Though the mortality rate varied significantly across diagnoses, septic shock and COPD attributed to the highest mortality. CONCLUSIONS:Non-communicable diseases were the most common cause of admission to the ICU of the hospital. Half of the ICU patients had poor outcomes, with one out of four succumbing to death. Factors like suboptimal speciality services and equipments, poor infrastructure development, and poor human resources might have contributed to poor outcomes in such settings.
BACKGROUND:Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has emerged as a well-established treatment for severe aortic stenosis since its first application in humans in 2002. In Nepal, the inaugural TAVI procedure was performed in February 2022 at the Shahid Gangalal National Heart Centre. This study aims to share our initial experiences and outcomes of TAVI at our center. METHODS:We conducted a retrospective observational study involving all patients who underwent TAVI at our facility between February 2022 and February 2024. This report details patients' baseline clinical characteristics, procedural data, complications, and in-hospital outcomes. RESULTS:A total of 19 patients underwent TAVI during the study period. The age of patients ranged from 59 to 90 years, with a mean age of 75.2 ± 7.5 years; 10 patients (52.6%) were female. Four cases (21.1%) involved patients with bicuspid aortic stenosis. Baseline mean aortic valve area measured 0.8 ± 0.1 cm², and the pre-procedural mean pressure gradient was 52.2 ± 10.1 mmHg. Post-procedure, two patients (10.5%) required permanent pacemaker implantation. The balloon-expandable valve was utilized in 12 cases (63.2%), while the self-expandable valve was used in 7 cases (36.8%). The overall procedural success rate was 100%, and all patients were discharged following TAVI, with a mean hospital stay of 4.5 ± 1.8 days. A mild paravalvular leak occurred in one patient (5.3%). Post-TAVI, the mean aortic valve pressure gradient decreased to 8.1 ± 2.6 mmHg. CONCLUSIONS:The outcomes of our initial TAVI procedures are promising, with in-hospital complication and mortality rates comparable to international standards, reinforcing the safety and efficacy of this intervention within our setting.
For the past eleven years, Nepal Health Research Council (NHRC) has been organising an annual event: National Summit of Health and Population Scientists in Nepal. This has become the leading platform for connecting research, policy, and practice in the country. Since its inception in 2015, it has evolved with changing public health needs, national reforms, and global priorities such as evidence-based decision making, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), federalisation, resilience, equity, population, and climate change. In 2015, the NHRC welcomed 500 participants and delegates. Over the past eleven years, annual participation has consistently exceeded 1,000 attendees. During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) period, more than 10,000 individuals joined virtually. The NHRC has strengthened multi-sector collaboration, expanded partnerships, and developed the event as a key policy dialogue platform for translating research into action. Key achievements include shaping national policy discourse, promoting a culture of evidence-informed decision making, research excellence through competitive awards, generating more than 1,600 research presentations, and publishing scientific evidence during public health emergencies. It also highlighted the visibility of the NHRC and its role in promoting evidence in practice. However, challenges persist in ensuring systematic follow?up, effective translation of evidence into policy and practice, and deeper engagement of provincial governments and communities. This article reviews the evolution of the summit, its achievements, and policy influence, and identifies opportunities to further strengthen its impact. Keywords: Evidence-based decision making; federalisation; health research policy; health systems strengthening; national summit.
BACKGROUND:Adolescent girls in Nepal, particularly those from migrant backgrounds, face barriers in accessing accurate sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information and services. Migration status may influence SRH knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors; however, comparative data within urban school settings are limited. To assess and compare SRH knowledge and attitudes among migrant and non-migrant adolescent girls in high schools of Biratnagar, Nepal. METHODS:A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 participants (100 migrants, 100 non-migrants) using stratified quota sampling. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire and analyzed in SPSS v25 with descriptive and inferential statistics (Chi-square test). RESULTS:Significant disparities were found between the two groups. Migrant girls demonstrated markedly lower awareness of contraceptive methods (e.g., 0% knew about implants and IUDs), STI symptoms (27.5%), and menstrual hygiene practices. They also reported lower comfort in discussing SRH topics with peers, parents, and health professionals. In contrast, non-migrant girls exhibited higher knowledge levels and more positive attitudes toward SRH services and education. CONCLUSIONS:The study highlights a critical gap in SRH awareness and attitude between migrant and non-migrant adolescent girls in Biratnagar. Tailored interventions, including inclusive school-based education, culturally sensitive outreach, and peer-led initiatives, are recommended to address these inequities and promote SRH equity among vulnerable adolescent populations.
BACKGROUND:Salt preference in diet can vary according to the salt taste sensitivity threshold among the individuals. This study aims to know the salt taste sensitivity threshold (STST) among healthy Nepalese adults and its association with blood pressure and anthropometric measures like Body Mass Index, waist Circumference and waist by hip ratio. METHODS:This cross-sectional study was carried out among 104 healthy Nepalese volunteers between 20-30 years of age in the department of Clinical Physiology, Maharajgunj Medical Campus. The ethical clearance from Institutional Review Committee was taken in From June to October, 2024. The salt taste sensitivity threshold was elicited with different concentrations of salt solutions. The blood pressure, and anthropometric measures like body mass index, waist circumference and waist by hip ratio were measured. All inferential statistics were calculated at a 5% level of significance. RESULTS:Among the study participants, 86.5% were in normal STST category. The mean body mass index (21.60 ± 2.82 kg/m2), waist circumference (78.03±11.10 cm) and waist by hip ratio 0.74±0.052) in high STST participants was comparatively more with statistically significant difference (P: 0.04; P <0.001, P<0.001). The association of systolic blood pressure was significant with STST (P:0.004). Also, the association of waist circumference and waist by hip ratio with STST was significant among female (P: 0.005; P:0.006). CONCLUSIONS:The healthy participants had mostly normal STST. The elevated systolic blood was associated with high STST which suggests of reducing salt intake for minimizing such risks.
BACKGROUND:Coping skills play a vital role in managing stress and adversity, influencing psychological well-being, particularly among university students. Students of psychology are expected to possess better coping mechanisms due to their academic training. This study aimed to assess the level of coping skills among psychology and non-psychology students and to examine the association of coping skills with selected demographic variables. METHODS:A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 271 undergraduate and graduate students (126 psychology and 145 non-psychology) from selected colleges in Kathmandu. Stratified random sampling was employed to ensure representation from both groups. Data were collected using the Coping Scale developed by Hamby, Grych, and Banyard. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software, applying descriptive statistics and independent samples t-tests to compare coping skills between groups. RESULTS:Among participants, 51.3% had medium-level coping skills, followed by high (25.8%) and low (22.9%). Psychology students scored significantly higher in coping skills than non-psychology students (mean = 37.33 vs. 34.74, p < .001). Males reported higher coping levels than females (p = .018). Residence, mobility preference, and employment status were not significantly associated with coping skills. CONCLUSIONS:Psychology students exhibited significantly better coping skills compared to their non-psychology counterparts. Gender differences were also observed, with males demonstrating stronger coping mechanisms. The findings underscore the need for targeted coping interventions, especially for non-psychology students.
