Background. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic disease that visibly changes the skin and may alter functioning in society. Objectives. The study aimed to assess the quality of life of Polish patients with AD in various age groups. Material and methods. This was a cross-sectional study conducted using: Infants' Dermatitis Quality of Life Index (IDQoL), Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI), and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) in the age groups 0-4, 4-16, and over 16 years, respectively. Furthermore, parents of children with AD completed the Dermatitis Family Impact questionnaire (DFI). Results. There were 125 patients and 90 caregivers in total. The greatest negative impact of the disease on the lives of AD patients was observed in patients over the age of 16. In younger age groups, the higher the decrease in the child's quality of life, the greater the impact of the disease on the family's quality of life. Pruritus was the most important and at the same time the most disturbing symptom. Problems with treatment were significantly greater in older children and adults than in younger children. Conclusions. AD affects quality of life in all age groups and changes the functioning of the family, having the greatest impact on patients over the age of 16.
Background. Monkeypox is a zoonotic disease caused by an Orthopoxvirus genus virus. Since 2024, Mpox cases have been reported to have reached more than 100,000 worldwide. Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) information after Mpox vaccination is still limited and requires further research. Objectives. This study aims to describe the adverse events following immunization (AEFI) among Udayana University Hospital staff after receiving Mpox vaccination. Material and methods. This was an observational, descriptive study with a cross-sectional approach conducted in November 2024 at Udayana University Hospital. A total of 47 health workers who had received two doses of Mpox vaccination were selected using total sampling. Data were collected via Google Forms and analyzed using SPSS v.25 (IBM). Results. After the first dose, 55.3% people experienced AEFI, such as pain (42.5%), swelling (19.1%), and drowsiness (19.1%), with symptoms starting < 24 hours in 34.1% cases. Symptom improvement occurred < 24 hours in 8.5%, within 1 day in 19.1%, 2-3 days in 17%, and 4-7 days in 10.7%. With the second dose, 51.1% people experienced AEFI, such as pain (34.04%), swelling (14.8%), and drowsiness (12.7%), with symptoms appearing < 24 hours in 25.5% and within 1 day in 23.4%. Improvement from second-dose AEFI occurred within 2-3 days for 17%, within 1 day for 14.9%, within 4-7 days for 8.5%, and > 7 days for 4.3%. Conclusions. The study confirms the safety of Mpox vaccination for health workers, with most AEFIs being mild to moderate, resolving within 24 hours to a week. Limitations include a small self and the absence of a control
Background. Childhood hematological cancer survivors are more likely to develop dyslipidemia, obesity, and metabolic syndrome as adults. Objectives. The study evaluated the impact of long-term steroid therapy on lipid profiles and A-FABP levels in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) or Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) shortly after completing oncological treatment. Material and methods. The study comprised 22 patients (median age, 10.33 years; males, 63.6%), including 14 patients with ALL and 8 patients with HL. Triglycerides, total cholesterol (TC), adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein (A-FABP), body mass index (BMI), upper arm muscle area (UAMA), and arm fat index (AFI) were assessed at diagnosis, at 3 months of cancer treatment, and after completion of treatment. Associations between these variables and selected demographic and clinical factors were assessed. Results. Dyslipidemia was prevalent, with hypertriglyceridemia being the most common disorder. TC levels were highest after treatment completion and lowest at diagnosis (p < 0.001). Significant changes in BMI and UAMA were observed post-treatment (p < 0.05). Overweight or obesity was noted in 40.9% of patients at the end of treatment. Higher A-FABP levels were consistently associated with overnutrition (p < 0.05). Increased UAMA and AFI values were linked to elevated A-FABP levels (p < 0.001). Older age at diagnosis was associated with TC lipid abnormalities, and TC levels were a significant positive predictor of triglycerides levels. Conclusions. Lipid disorders are frequent in patients with hematological malignancies undergoing long-term steroid therapy and may contribute to an increased risk of obesity and metabolic syndrome. Regular monitoring of lipid profiles and nutritional status is essential for early detection and management of these complications. Further studies are needed to evaluate the potential role of A-FABP as a predictive marker of metabolic disturbances.
Professional burnout can affect any of us. We enter adulthood with a sense of mission, ready to make sacrifices at any cost, only to collide painfully with reality. We experience severe physical fatigue, frustration, disappointment, discouragement, somatic problems, and addictions. We suffer like everyone else but pretend that everything is fine, refusing help. Over time, we become too unwell to care for ourselves. As it turns out, there are people and organizations ready to help – if we only allow ourselves to accept it.
Background. The participation of older adults in day-care centers is influenced by various factors, with these establishments determined to enhance the overall well-being of older adults through the provision of diverse services personalized to their needs and preferences. Objectives. In this pilot study, we aimed to investigate the barriers and facilitators affecting the participation of older adults in an age-friendly healthcare center in Iran. Material and methods. This pilot study used a conventional content analysis approach. 18 older adults and healthcare professionals were invited to participate in the study using purposeful sampling. Individual semi-structured interviews were performed to collect data, which was then managed with MAXQDA 10 software. Results. The facilitators of older adults' participation in the Age-Friendly Centers (AFCs) programs were context, input, and process associated factors. On the other hand, the barriers to their attendance were context-and input-associated factors. Conclusions. Greater support and information from healthcare providers and such AFC systems seem to benefit older adults on how, where, and when they should involve themselves in age-friendly healthcare services. In the efforts of AFC systems to promote the participation level of older adults, there may be a great need to consider elder-centered program planning, within which context-, input-, and process-associated factors are planned with active participation of older adults.
Background. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone mineral density and bone mass decrease or when the structure and strength of bone change. Objectives. To assess the prevalence of patients at risk for future osteoporotic fractures among adults in Saudi Arabia and to identify the most common risk factors for osteoporotic fractures in the Saudi population. Material and methods. The present study was of an observational, analytical type with a cross-sectional study design of six-month duration in primary care clinics in Majmaah, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. All adults above 40 years old were recruited as study subjects. A convenience sampling technique was used for recruitment of the study participants. Data collection was done by trained medical students based on a study questionnaire and FRAX score. The expected sample size was 377. The collected data was retrieved in an MS-Excel file and analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics (version 24). A p-value of < 0.05 was considered to be significant. Results. The mean age of the study population was 48.2 years, with a median age of 45.0 years. The majority of the smokers were males (92.2%) and the majority of non-smokers were females (60.2%). After adjustment, 21.1% of glucocorticoid users reported a history of fractures; however, no statistically significant results. On the other hand, thyroid hyperactivity showed a borderline significant association with fracture risk (p = 0.05). Males in the study population were more likely to have a history of fractures compared to females. Menopausal status demonstrated a non-significant association with osteoporotic fracture risk (p = 0.07). Conclusions. In relation to the risk of osteoporotic fractures, this study stresses the complex interactions between gender, BMI, lifestyle factors, and certain medical diseases. To accurately predict and prevent osteoporotic fractures in this population, individual risk assessments may be necessary. A complete evaluation of fracture risk in this population should consider a number of factors in addition to gender and BMI. To help direct fracture prevention strategies, further research into these correlations and the identification of additional risk factors may be necessary.
The multiple breath washout (MBW) test is a highly sensitive method for detecting early abnormalities in pulmonary function through the assessment of ventilation distribution. As it does not rely on forced respiratory maneuvers, MBW can be successfully performed in young children and individuals with limited ability to cooperate. This technique is particularly valuable in identifying both early, reversible changes caused by localized inflammation and mucus retention, as well as irreversible structural damage resulting from fibrosis and progressive destruction of the lung parenchyma in peripheral airway diseases. The growing availability of commercial MBW devices has facilitated its adoption in clinical research and contributed to its increasing integration into routine clinical practice. This position statement by the Polish Society of Pediatric Pulmonology outlines the technical aspects of the MBW procedure, guidance for interpreting test results, and potential clinical applications.
Rational antibiotic therapy represents one of the crucial efforts to combat the rising resistance of pathogens to antimicrobial drugs. The principal characteristics of this treatment approach are its high efficacy, patient safety, low cost, convenient dosing, and the minimization of the risk of resistance development. Specific consideration is required regarding antibiotic therapy during pregnancy and lactation. The antibiotics that are considered safe during pregnancy are mainly penicillins and cephalosporins. It is contraindicated to use aminoglycosides or tetracyclines during this period. A greater range of safe preparations is available during lactation. In the event of uncertainty regarding drug safety during these periods, numerous databases are available to assist with the selection of the most appropriate therapeutic option. A crucial aspect of efficacious antibiotic therapy is the monitoring of treatment outcomes, which encompasses both clinical assessment and, when indicated, supplementary testing. It is also important to take into account the potential adverse effects of the medications being used. A noteworthy phenomenon observed in primary care is the carrier of pathogens. In most cases, these patients do not receive treatment unless their individual circumstances necessitate it. Infection prevention, which entails immunization and patient education, represents a vital strategy for reducing the need for antibiotics. Regular monitoring and strict adherence to antibiotic therapy can markedly enhance treatment efficacy and mitigate the risk of complications. This is the third article in a series addressing antibiotic resistance issues from the perspective of family medicine practice.
Background. Polish primary healthcare is experiencing an increase in patients with complex medication regimens and multiple morbidities, driven by rising life expectancy and an aging population. Addressing chronic conditions necessitates the involvement of multidisciplinary teams. In Poland, primary care physicians traditionally coordinate diagnostic and therapeutic services in collaboration with nurses and midwives, though not with pharmacists. Objectives. This literature review examines the potential role of pharmacists in enhancing coordinated care. Material and methods. A review of literature was conducted using PubMed and Web of Science, limiting the search criteria to the last 5 years. Overall, 21 articles were included in the analysis. Results. Pharmacists contribute to coordinated care in three main areas: chronic medication management and drug information; patient examination, screening, and prevention; and transitions of care. The most common pharmacist service in these settings is medication reconciliation or review, which involves addressing patient concerns and resolving medication-related issues, typically following physician referral. Comprehensive medication reviews are particularly beneficial for home-based patients, allowing for deprescribing and dose adjustments of potentially inappropriate medications for older adults. Community pharmacists provide accessible screening and preventative services, including point-of-care testing (POCT), immunizations, and support during care transitions. During transitions from hospital to community care, pharmacists optimize drug use, correct medication errors, and enhance medication adherence. Conclusions. Evidence suggests that collaboration between pharmacists and primary care physicians positively affects patient outcomes, particularly by reducing hospital readmissions. In Poland, incorporating pharmacists into new care management models should be considered, given their availability and the high level of public trust.
Background. Effective communication between parents and adolescents about sexuality is crucial for promoting healthy behaviors and preventing negative outcomes such as adolescent pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and risky sexual practices. Objectives. This study aimed to analyze the topics discussed and levels of parental confidence and mutual trust between parents and adolescents when addressing sexuality, including adolescent pregnancy, STIs, contraceptive methods, and physical changes. Material and methods. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 656 participants (328 parent-adolescent pairs). Incomplete questionnaires were excluded. Confidence levels and their association with sociodemographic variables were analyzed using Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Results. Mothers reported higher confidence than fathers (p < 0.001). Parents with higher education showed greater confidence, while those with primary education had the lowest scores (p < 0.001). Adolescents reported more confidence discussing physical changes and contraceptive methods (x = 16.8), and less for adolescent pregnancy and STIs (p < 0.05). Across all topics, parents reported higher confidence than their children and stated they had discussed sexuality more frequently than acknowledged by the adolescents. Conclusions. Confidence levels vary by topic and sociodemographic characteristics. Mothers, parents with higher education, and those without religion reported greater confidence. Communication barriers persist from the adolescents' perspective, particularly regarding adolescent pregnancy and STIs.
Background. In the outpatient setting, prescribing first-line antibiotics is an ordinarily adopted measure to reduce the spread of antimicrobial resistance of urinary pathogens. Objectives. We aimed to analyze the antibiotic prescribing for urinary tract infections (UTIs) in a sample of general practitioners (GPs). Material and methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 42 general practitioners (GPs) between March and October 2019. Prescription data were collected from electronic medical records (EMRs). We analyzed the total prescribing volume and proportions of the first-line antibiotics and fluoroquinolones and compared prescribing patterns with the European Surveillance of Antimicrobial Consumption (ESAC) quality indicators. Results. Of the 24,117 prescriptions of antibiotics for systemic use (ATC J01), 22% were prescribed for all UTIs in both sexes and 14.8% for uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections (uLUTIs) in women over 18 years of age. Antibiotic prescription rates per 100 patients were 7.9/100 for all UTIs, and 5.3/100 for uLUTIs. Large differences were observed between the highest and lowest prescribing rates/ 100 patients (6 times), unrelated to number of patients on the list. Prescribing rates did not differ significantly concerning GPs length of service and specialization in family medicine (FM). Most physicians prescribed outside the recommended ranges according to the ESAC prescribing quality indicators. Conclusions. Empirical treatment of uLUTIs in a sample of GPs was suboptimal regarding quality criteria. Large individual differences in prescribing practices were unrelated to the number of enlisted patients but probably reflected incorrectly adopted prescribing habits.
Background. Osteoporosis is a pervasive chronic disease that poses significant public health challenges, impacting both longevity and quality of life. It is a key agenda to provide awareness, and understanding of a disease is fundamental to its prevention and effective management. This research investigated the awareness and knowledge of osteoporosis in the local population. Objectives. It is important to discuss and raise awareness of osteoporosis in every walk of life. The study found that the level of awareness and knowledge about osteoporosis and its associated lifestyle factors among middle-aged and elderly individuals in Pakistan show significant association with these patterns. Material and methods. A descriptive study design was employed to survey four public sector hospitals in Islamabad, with a sample size of four hundred selected through random sampling techniques. Quantitative data analysis, including statistical tests and frequency distribution, was utilized to assess the level of awareness and knowledge about osteoporosis. Results. The findings of the study indicated that there was inadequate awareness among respondents regarding the causes of osteoporosis. Lifestyle factors, including daily practices and dietary patterns, were identified as influential contributors to the prevalence of osteoporosis. Conclusions. The results highlight the need for community mobilization and mass media awareness campaigns by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to enhance awareness of this disease and its cause. The study reveals a notable difference: more educated respondents have more knowledge of osteoporosis. The study concludes that filling the gaps in knowledge and understanding of the common population is a vital step towards mitigating the impact of this disease and improving overall public health outcomes.
Background. The preservation of mental health has become especially important in the context of martial law in Ukraine due to the powerful impact of a full-scale war on students of higher medical education. Objectives. The purpose of the study was to analyze the level of anxiety and emotional burnout among students of higher medical education under martial law. Material and methods. To study emotional burnout, a survey was conducted among 158 students of a higher education institution in the 5th-6th year of study. The data were collected in 2024. In order to diagnose the manifestations of burnout, the methodology of V.V. Boyko Diagnosis of the level of emotional burnout was used. Results. The "exhaustion" phase is characterized by complaints of psychophysical fatigue in the form of the feeling that everything has become boring (68.3%), learning is done by force (79.7%), and interest in learning has disappeared (42.4%). Almost half of the students (53.1%) brought home negative emotions. Because of the devastation, their own achievements are leveled, they think that their efforts are in vain (63.3%), and they often feel nervous when communicating with people (48.1%). Almost one in three respondents (35.5%) complained that working with people is accompanied by psycho-emotional exhaustion and worsens their health, with 15.2% of respondents having to take medication to recover. Despite the disturbing symptoms of emotional burnout, only 21.5% of students believe that their studies have been unsuccessful. Conclusions. It was found that most students have problems connected with the development of emotional burnout syndrome.
Background. Regardless of the level of healthcare facility to which patients present, the majority of their complaints can be managed within primary care settings. Objectives. This study aims to assess whether patients assigned a yellow triage code who were treated on an outpatient basis in the emergency department had previously consulted their family physicians. It also investigates reasons for not consulting family physicians and evaluates satisfaction with family medicine services. Material and methods. This prospective, cross-sectional study included 380 patients aged 18 and above who presented to the Yellow Area Polyclinic of Atat & uuml;rk University Hospital Emergency Department and met the inclusion criteria. The EUROPEP (European Patients Evaluate General/Family Practice) scale was administered to assess satisfaction with family medicine services. Results. A significant difference in marital status was observed between those who presented during and outside working hours (p = 0.040). Emergency visits during working hours were more frequent among patients with chronic diseases and those on continuous medication (p < 0.05). Although 95.5% of participants were aware of the family medicine system, most did not actively use communication channels. Higher awareness of family physicians' capabilities-associated with increased health literacy-was linked to a greater likelihood of utilizing family medicine services. Conclusions. Enhancing health literacy, particularly among individuals with lower education levels, could encourage more frequent and appropriate use of family medicine services. Expanding the scope of family medicine and implementing communication strategies to increase public trust may reduce unnecessary emergency department visits and improve satisfaction with primary care services.
Background. The quality of life (QoL) of children is an increasingly common subject of research, and for its assessment, many use the pediatric quality of life inventory generic core scale (PedsQL (TM)) questionnaires to assess the QoL of pediatric respondents. Previous research has largely focused on assessing the QoL of children older than 4 years of age; however, there has not been sufficient research conducted for the younger population. Objectives. The aim of this work was to determine how parents assess the QoL of their healthy children aged 2 to 4 years. Material and methods. A total of 200 parents participated whose children are in kindergartens in Croatia and who, for the purposes of the research, had filled out the PedsQL (TM) questionnaire. The data was first descriptively analyzed. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha. Possible correlations between individual PedsQL (TM) scales (physical, emotional, social and psychosocial functioning and kindergarten functioning) and the total QoL were analyzed. Results. The mean score on the PedsQL (TM) scale is between 73.17 and 85.47, with a total QoL score of 81.93. All PedsQL (TM) scales showed satisfactory reliability with Cronbach's alpha ranging from 0.70 to 0.79. A statistically significant correlation was established between each individual PedsQL (TM) scale and the total QoL score, and this was between 0.63 and 0.89 (p < 0.05). Conclusions. The Croatian version of the PedsQL (TM) questionnaire is an accurate and valid measure for assessing the QoL of children aged 2 to 4 years.
The food supplements market has been improving year to year. In 2022, the value of the global food supplements market was USD 164 bn. Forecasts show that this segment is still going to grow. The value of the Polish food supplements market is growing constantly as well, and in 2022, it reached PLN 7.7 bn, which means that the value doubled in comparison to 2015. The COVID-19 pandemic definitely had a serious impact on the observed trend. This also made people care more about their health, as well as to take some prophylactic measures. Despite the wide use of food supplements not only by Poles but also by people all over the world, there are relatively few scientific publications in this area. Due to this, the aim of this article is to collect the knowledge on regulations of the food supplements market as well as the distribution of those products on Polish and European Union markets. The COVID-19 pandemic played a significant role in shaping this trend, and it heightened awareness about health and encouraged people to take preventive measures. In this article, special attention was paid to the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on changes within the food supplements market.
networking in their field of specialization. Artificial intelligence (AI) is another promising tool that has enhanced the learning experiences of postgraduate students. Despite the various advantages of incorporating these platforms and technologies in postgraduate training in education, research, and patient care, postgraduate students pursuing health science courses have expressed various concerns related to their usage. Objectives. To assess the perceptions and practices of postgraduate students pursuing health science courses regarding the use of SNSs and AI for educational purposes, research, and patient care and to determine their determinants. Material and methods. Data was collected via a self-administered questionnaire designed as a Google form. Results. Of the 204 participants, 153 (75.0%) used SNSs for academic purposes. The most common benefit gained by the users concerning SNSs was faster access to information, whereas the most common drawback stated was a lack of authentic data. 158 (77.4%) participants favored its use for postgraduate training. 165 (80.9%) participants had used AI tools for academic purposes. The most common benefit gained by the users of AI was faster access to information, and the most common drawback was that it limits critical thinking. A total of 166 (81.4%) favored its usage for postgraduate training. 100 (49%) participants wanted some form of training in the use of AI applications. Place of residence and type of course were associated with the use of SNSs for academic purposes. Favorable perceptions of using SNSs and AI for academic purposes were associated with the usage of SNSs (p < 0.001) and AI (p = 0.008), respectively, among postgraduate students. Conclusions. At least three-fourths of postgraduate students had used SNSs used SNSs or AI for academic purposes. Favorable perceptions were associated with the use of SNSs and AI. Hence, there is a need to conduct training programs among all health science postgraduate students to give them the right perspective of these platforms and to encourage their usage.
Background. Transitioning from medical school to clinical practice is a critical phase in a physician's career. In Poland, this happens during a mandatory postgraduate internship. Many junior doctors undertake work in Night and Holiday Healthcare Services (NHHS). Objectives. The aim of the study was to explore the motivation and preparation of medical interns for work in NHHS and to assess major potential gaps in pre-graduate training. Material and methods. We prepared a 31-question online survey to assess the skills of medical trainees in the following areas: differential diagnosis, basic medical procedures, basic life support skills, and administration and communication skills. Participants were asked to evaluate their proficiency using a 5-point Likert scale, with 1 representing very poor skills and 5 indicating very good skills. A weighted mean was calculated based on the number of responses received in each category. Results. The study involved 124 participants. The main motives for interns to work in NHHS were financial reasons and the desire to gain experience. Almost half of the respondents assessed their preparation for work as average. The respondents judged their differential diagnostic skills as poor (2.67). The surveyed individuals rated their skills in pediatric care particularly low (2.44). However, the respondents rated themselves quite well in terms of basic life support (BLS) (4.06) and communication (3.86). Conclusions. The results suggest the preparation of interns for work in NHHS is at an average level. The current medical education system in Poland may require modification to better prepare young doctors for differential diagnosis of the symptoms, as well as pediatric urgencies.
