Background: Skincare formulations have turned out to be one of the most frequently used products in the day-to-day life of people in this modern society. The present study sought the knowledge, attitudes, and practices on the usage of skincare products among the inhabitants in Anuradhapura district, North Central Province, Sri Lanka. Method: A pre-validated questionnaire was used in this community-based descriptive cross-sectional study to collect information from randomly selected 404 participants. The data were analyzed by SPSS statistical package (version 20). Chi-squared test was used to determine the statistical association between the socio-demographic data and the usage of skincare products. Results: Among the study population, 221 (54.7%) were identified as regular skincare product users. A statistically significant association was observed between some of the demographic data; ie. gender (p=<0.001), age groups (p=<0.001), marital status (p=0.013), and level of education (p=<0.001) with the usage of skincare products. Interestingly, 79.64% of the respondents who used skincare products preferred herbal formulations. The consumer awareness of the products they use was quite satisfactory as 95.09%, 69.23, and 77.37% of the regular users were cautious about manufacturing/expiry date, ingredients/composition, and possible side effects respectively. Moreover, 88.59% of the skincare product users had the habit of reading the safety precautions/warnings on the label. The quality of the products was the primary criterion for the purchasing of a particular product. Conclusion: This study revealed that consumers in Anuradhapura district were quite rational and were aware during the selection of skincare products. Also, it pointed out the consumer preferences for herbal-based skincare formulations over synthetic counterparts.
Background: Globally, a quarter of unintended pregnancies end in unsafe abortions which is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality. This study aimed to investigate the determinants of unintended pregnancy and the unmet need for contraception among reproductive-age women in Nigeria. Methods: Data were obtained from the 2018 Nigerian Demographic and Health Survey. A total of 20,655 women of reproductive age were included. Unmet need for contraception was the main outcome variable. Bivariate and multiple logistic regressions were carried out to predict the determinants. SPSS version 27.0 was used for data analysis. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: The respondents’ mean age was 29.7±7.1years, 36.7% had their first child before 18years, and 93.9% were married. 18.5% desired no more children and only 17.5% were currently using contraceptives. 11.8% admitted to having unintended pregnancy and 74.2% reported no unmet need for contraception. Respondents who were 18years and above at first birth were 14.7% less likely to have unintended pregnancy compared with those who were below 18years at their first birth (OR=0.853, CI=0.764–0.952). Respondents who had ever terminated a pregnancy were 1.3 times more likely to have an unintended pregnancy than those who had never terminated a pregnancy (OR=1.251, CI=1.101–1.422). Conclusion: Many women reported unmet contraceptive needs, with some admitting to having unintended pregnancies. Addressing this is vital for reducing unintended pregnancies, which will contribute to improved health status for mothers and their babies and facilitate the attainment of maternal and child health-related sustainable development goals.
Background: Long-term survival on peritoneal dialysis (PD) remains uncommon globally and is even more challenging in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where resource constraints and health system factors influence dialysis outcomes. This study compared clinical, biological, and outcome differences between Moroccan patients who achieved ≥5 years of PD survival and those who did not. Methods: We conducted a retrospective descriptive and analytical study from June 2006 to January 2024 including 175 PD patients. Participants were categorized into long-term survivors (≥5 years, n=61) and non-survivors (<5 years, n=114). Demographic characteristics, comorbidities, laboratory parameters, and technique-related complications were assessed. Survival and mortality determinants were analyzed using linear and logistic regression models. Results: Female sex was significantly associated with longer PD survival (p=0.019). Non-survivors presented higher baseline urea, creatinine, and vitamin D levels, and lower bicarbonate, albumin, residual kidney function (RKF), and weekly creatinine clearance (WCC). Infectious complications—including peritonitis and catheter infections—were more frequent among non-survivors. Among long-term survivors, RKF, Kt/V, and albumin decreased over time, while hemoglobin and vitamin D improved. Cardiovascular events were the leading cause of death across both groups. Low ultrafiltration, hypoalbuminemia, and recurrent peritonitis were major predictors of mortality. Conclusion: Although uncommon, long-term PD survival is achievable in Morocco. Better preservation of RKF, higher serum albumin, and fewer infectious complications contribute to prolonged survival. Strengthening early identification and management of these modifiable factors may improve outcomes in PD programs. Enhancing PD management strategies, infection control practices, and nutritional support could significantly reduce mortality and ease the burden on health systems in LMICs where access to renal replacement therapies remains limited.
Background: Diabetic patients are prone to increased depression, anxiety, and stress. The main objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and associated factors of depression, anxiety, and stress among diabetic patients in Herat province of Afghanistan. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 among 353 adult diabetic patients in Herat province of Afghanistan. To assess depression, anxiety, and stress, the Persian version of the 21-item Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) was used. Data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and multiple regression analysis. A two-tailed p-value below 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Among the 353 diabetic patients, 95.2% were aged ³50 years, 61.8% were females, 62.0% were living in urban areas, 64.6% were illiterate, 75.1% had low economic status, and 62.9% were overweight/obese. Severe/extremely severe depression, anxiety, and stress were present in 73.9%, 84.1%, and 80.5% of the diabetic patients. The statistically significant predictors of depression were being female, having low economic status, and having had a bad event in the past month. The statistically significant predictors of anxiety were being female and having low economic status. The statistically significant predictors of stress were being female, being a widow/divorced, having low economic status, and having had a bad event in the past months. Being a female diabetic patient was a strong predictor for all three conditions of depression (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 11.01, p-value <0.001), anxiety (AOR = 4.53, p-value = 0.005), and stress (AOR = 6.77, p-value <0.001). Conclusion: Depression and anxiety are highly prevalent among diabetic patients in Herat province of Afghanistan.
Background: Regenerative endodontics is an evolving field of dentistry that focuses on biological restoration and tissue regeneration rather than traditional apexification techniques. This approach utilizes biological materials, growth factors, and scaffolds to stimulate natural healing, enabling root dentin thickening and lengthening. Regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs) aim to replace damaged structures, relieve symptoms, promote bone healing, and enhance root maturation. The success of REPs relies on three key components: stem cells, signaling molecules, and an appropriate scaffold to support cell growth and differentiation. Methods: This systematic review evaluates the management of immature permanent necrotic teeth treated with regenerative endodontic procedures. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed and Google Scholar databases for studies published between 2015 and 2024, following PRISMA guidelines. Case series and case reports were included based on predefined eligibility criteria. Data extraction focused on patient demographics, etiology, radiographic findings, treatment protocols, and clinical outcomes. Results: The findings indicate that regenerative endodontic treatment is highly effective, with a success rate of 82.6%, demonstrating significant healing of pre-apical radiolucency and root maturation. The most commonly used irrigation protocol involved NaOCl, saline, and EDTA, while Triple Antibiotic Paste (TAP) was the preferred intracanal medicament. MTA was the most frequently used capping material, and Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) and Blood Clot (BC) were the most commonly utilized scaffolds. Despite the high success rate, a small percentage of cases were only partially successful or failed, emphasizing the need for further research to refine treatment protocols and improve long-term outcomes. Conclusion: This review highlights the importance of regenerative endodontic techniques in promoting root development and periapical healing, offering a biologically driven approach to managing immature necrotic teeth. Further studies are required to optimize treatment strategies and enhance clinical predictability.
Background: Hand hygiene is a fundamental component of infection prevention, control, and patient care. However, it is often perceived as merely a personal hygiene practice, as its wider implications for disease prevention and public health are not comprehended. Hand hygiene is not implemented in an optimal way, both by health professionals and the population. The study aimed to assess and compare the hand hygiene knowledge, attitudes, and practices of medical and non-medical students in Peshawar, Pakistan. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, and data was collected from female medical and non-medical students in Peshawar by means of a validated questionnaire using convenience sampling and snowball sampling techniques. SPSS version 20 was used for data analysis. Results: The overall level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices of hand hygiene in both groups was good. More medical students associated damaged skin, jewelry, and artificial fingernails with germ colonization, believed in the adequacy of hand washing after environmental exposure, prioritized hand hygiene, and consistently washed their hands after handling garbage and bowel movements. On the other hand, more non-medical students believed that hand washing cleans both hands and food, recognized the protective role of hand cream, washed hands only when visibly dirty, and considered hand washing after coughing, sneezing, or blowing the nose and drying hands after washing necessary. Conclusion: The findings suggest that it is imperative to make targeted interventions, create awareness, and educate the public regarding hand hygiene to effectively improve its compliance. Moreover, additional research is necessary to establish the extent of KAP concerning hand hygiene.
Background: This study aims to describe the prevalence and associated factors of low birth weight (LBW) among neonates born in the maternity ward of Mirwais Regional Hospital in Kandahar, Afghanistan. Methods: A hospital-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from October 1st, 2023, to December 31st, 2023. A total of 423 mothers who recently gave birth were included using systematic random sampling. Data were collected through face-to-face maternal interviews and medical record reviews, focusing on socio-demographic, maternal, nutrition-related, and neonate-related factors. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed using SPSS 16.0 to identify factors associated with LBW. Results: The mean age of the participants was 32 years, with most falling in the 21-30 age group. A significant majority of participants were from rural areas (74.5%) and belonged to the Pashtun ethnicity (84.6%). The prevalence of LBW among the neonates was 17.3%. Key factors associated with LBW included low maternal educational status, inadequate prenatal care, and poor nutritional status. Conclusion: The study identified a high prevalence of LBW in neonates born at Mirwais Regional Hospital. Maternal education, prenatal care, and nutritional status are significant predictors of LBW. Interventions focusing on improving maternal education, enhancing prenatal care, and ensuring adequate maternal nutrition are critical to reducing the incidence of LBW in this setting.
Background: Bacterial respiratory infections are a major health concern, especially in underdeveloped and developing countries. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria in respiratory infections and assess the efficacy of antibiotics. Methods: A prospective, observational study was conducted from July 2010 to July 2011. Patients with respiratory infections were categorized by age, bacterial pathogen, disease type, and season of infection. Diagnostic methods, including throat swabs, blood cultures, and antibiograms, were used to identify pathogens and determine antibiotic resistance profiles. The infection rate was calculated using standard epidemiological formulas. Results: Gram-negative bacteria accounted for 84.7% of infections, with Acinetobacter baumannii (26.4%) being the most common pathogen. Gram-positive infections, primarily caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae (77%), were also prevalent. The highest infection rates were observed in the spring, particularly among children under one year and those aged 1-6 years. Pneumonia was the most common diagnosis (43.5%). Ampicillin resistance was widespread, but Acinetobacter baumannii, E. coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae showed sensitivity to Sulbactam, Cefoperazone, and Piperacillin/Tazobactam. Conclusion: Acinetobacter baumannii was the predominant cause of respiratory infections, especially in young children and during spring. Ampicillin resistance was common, but Sulbactam, Cefoperazone, and Piperacillin/Tazobactam were more effective. These findings highlight the importance of targeted antibiotic therapy, particularly for Gram-negative bacterial infections.
Background: This study examines the Prevalence of Language Barriers, Impacts, and Coping Strategies among Medical Students during their Clinical Rotation in Peshawar, an area with a wide range of language diversity. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 663 medical students from six medical colleges in Peshawar to assess the prevalence, frequency, and severity of language barriers, their impact on patient interactions, and the coping mechanisms employed by students. Results: The findings indicated that 39.1% of the students faced language barriers during clinical rotations; most of them were female and non-Pashto speakers. A vast proportion (69.1%) felt that these barriers negatively affected patient care due to difficulties in obtaining proper patient history and increased miscommunication. Moreover, students with language barriers reported anxiety and frustration during patient interaction. The primary coping strategy used by students was seeking support from colleagues at 80.7%. Figures showed that only 11.9% of students received formal training to overcome language barriers. Of course, students who received language barrier training were significantly more confident in clinical interactions. Conclusion: These results suggest extreme reforms in medical curricula, such as including many languages and cultural training programs to overcome language barriers; this would better prepare the students to work in a multilingual setting, dramatically reducing communication errors, improving patient care, and enriching the education experience in diverse areas.
Background: This study aims to assess the prevalence, primary causes, and associated factors of visual impairment (VI) among individuals aged 40 years and older at Mirwais Hospital in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan. Methods: The data for this population-based cross-sectional study were collected from 2022 to 2023. The calculated sample size was 301, allocated to urban and rural strata using the probability proportional to size method. Visual impairment (VI) encompasses two components: low vision and blindness. Low vision is defined as visual acuity less than 6/18, while blindness is defined as visual acuity less than 3/60, as measured by the Snellen chart. Results: The study included 301 patients, comprising 145 (48.2%) women and 156 (51.8%) men. The age distribution was as follows: 67 (22.1%) participants were aged 40–50 years, 111 (36.8%) were aged 51–60 years, and 127 (42.1%) were above 60 years. Visual impairment was observed in 159 cases (52.8%) in urban areas and 142 cases (47.2%) in rural areas. The leading causes of visual impairment were cataracts in 144 (47.8%) patients, refractive errors in 68 (22.6%), glaucoma in 37 (12.3%), macular degeneration in 28 (9.3%), and diabetic retinopathy in 24 (8.0%). Conclusion: The prevalence of visual impairment increases notably after the age of 50, particularly among patients with cataracts, followed by those with refractive errors and glaucoma. In conclusion, this research highlights a higher prevalence of visual impairment in patients with cataracts, refractive errors, and glaucoma.
Background: Nigeria records considerable morbidity and mortality from tetanus, predominantly in newborns and women of reproductive age group. This is largely due to poor tetanus toxoid-containing vaccine (TTCV) uptake. This study investigated the factors influencing the uptake of adequate Tetanus toxoid vaccination among women in their last pregnancy in Nigeria. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study used data sets extracted from the Nigeria Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey. It includes data collected from 4,855 women, aged 15-49 years across the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria. Data analysis, chi-square test and logistic regression analysis were then performed. Results: Out of the 4,855 women recruited, slightly half of the respondents (51.7%) were between the ages of 25 and 34. All respondents had tetanus injections, the majority of which (86.7%) were adequate. Some factors identified to influence TTCV uptake positively were younger age group (p<0.001, OR=1.377), tertiary education (p<0.001, OR=2.093), wealth (p<0.001, OR=2.217), owning an immunisation card (p<0.001, OR=0.69), exposure to radio and television (p<0.001, OR=1.749), residence in southern Nigeria (p=0.020, OR=1.571), prenatal care (p=0.019, OR=0.585) and delivery in health care facility (p<0.019, OR=0.448). Conclusion: This study found that the TTCV uptake in Nigeria among mothers in their last pregnancy was in keeping with the standard recommended by WHO for any country aspiring to eliminate maternal and neonatal tetanus. However, the lowest uptake was observed in the Northern region. We recommend that national policies on maternal and child care should be reviewed to improve TTCV uptake and aid the elimination of maternal and neonatal tetanus across all geopolitical zones in Nigeria.
Background: Labor pain is one of the most severe pain types known and it is especially more intense in primiparous women. For this reason, this experimental study was conducted on the rebozo technique applied during labor in primiparous pregnant women to determine its effect on the perception of labor pain and labor duration. Methods: This study was conducted between 1 July 2021 and 31 January 2022 in a private institution with two groups, 30 patients got treated with rebozo, rebozo group, 30 people in the control group, with a total of 60 patients. Data collection tools included patient information form, partograph form, Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Data was analysed with SPSS. Physical characteristics were similar (p>0.05). Results: Application of Rebozo technique shortened the duration of the active phase of labor, the duration of the total active phase and the duration between the active phase and delivery. VAS score was found to be significantly lower with Rebozo technique application (p<0.05). Conclusion: The study suggests that the rebozo technique is a reliable and effective method for reducing labor duration and pain sensation.
Background: This study aimed to investigate households’ access to improved water sources, sanitation and handwashing facilities among under-18 orphans in Nigeria. Methods: Data were obtained from the 2018 Nigerian Demographic and Health Survey. A total of 6152 orphans were included. Access to improved water, sanitation and presence of handwashing facilities were the main outcome variable. SPSS version 26.0 was used for data analysis. Statistical significance was declared at p < 0.05. Results: The respondents mean age was 10.5±4.5years which about half (50.3%) were female. Respondents from rural areas were 73.8% less likely to have access to improved source of water supply compared to those who were from urban areas (OR=0.262, CI: 0.231-0.297). Also, those with higher education were 9.2 times more likely to have access to improved sanitation as compared to those who had no education (OR=9.212, CI: 1.131-75.005). Also, orphans from rural communities were 13.8% less likely to have access to basic hand washing facilities compared to those who were from urban communities (OR=0.862, CI: 0.762-0.976). Conclusion: This study revealed that some socio-demographic characteristics were significant determinants to access to improved water, sanitation and presence of handwashing facilities in the households.
Background: After great change in governing of Afghanistan in 2001 the country is experiencing the double burden of communicable and noncommunicable diseases. In this paper, we estimated the prevalence of the Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) and its components among Afghan adults’ citizens using data from the first WHO STEP survey. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of adults’ individuals of ≥ 25 years in five main cities of Afghanistan including Jalalabad, Mazar Sharif, Kandahar, Herat and in Kabul during 2012 to 2015. The study was conducted in accordance with the STEPwise approach of the World Health Organization. Prevalence of metabolic syndrome, its components and associated risk factors were calculated using Adult Treatment Panel (ATP) III criteria modified for Asian in habitants. Data management, analysis and statistical procedures conducted using Epi info v. 7 and SPSS v. 20. Results: Totally 5897 adult citizens were enrolled in this study. The average age of study subjects 39.56±12.29 years, consisting of 3185 females (54%) and 2712 males (46%). Generally, 62% of participants were illiterate and majority (82.5%) were married. The prevalence of smoking cigarettes and using mouth snuff was 8% and 11.1% and this proportion were very low in females (2.7% and 2.5%) than males (14.1% and 21.1%); this difference was statistically significant (p value=<0.01). The overall prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 39.69% (95%CI: 38.42 – 40.97). The highest rate (52.70%) was recorded in Jalalabad and lowest rate (34.11%) in Herat cities. Moderate physical activity had a statistically significant association with syndrome (OR=1.16; 95%CI:1.031-1.306). Conclusion: Despite of struggling to control communicable diseases the country is faced with challenge of noncommunicable diseases, if the MetS is counted as a typical model. It warrants formulated public health measures to prevent morbidity and mortality due to noncommunicable disease in the future.
Background: Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a global health concern that significantly impacts the quality of life. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate health-related quality of life and the factors associated with it in hypertensive patients across the physical, psychological, social, and environmental domains. Methods: A cross-sectional investigation was conducted involving 503 public school teachers from Herat province of Afghanistan. The World Health Organization Quality of Life Bref 26 (WHOQOL-BREF 26) questionnaire was used to assess quality of life of participants. Each participant's blood pressure was assessed twice. Participants with a systolic blood pressure of 140 mmHg or higher, a diastolic blood pressure of 90 mmHg or higher, or both, were classified as having hypertension. Results: Of the 503 participants, 23.5% of them had hypertension. Age group, gender, and aware of hypertension were significantly associated with presence of hypertension. Physical domain, psychological domain, and social relationship domain were significantly associated with prevalence of hypertension. Conclusion: This study underscores the significant impact of hypertension on the health-related quality of life among Afghan school teachers. Effective management strategies targeting physical, psychological, and social health are essential to mitigate the adverse effects of hypertension. Further research should explore the role of cultural and occupational factors in shaping the quality of life in this population.
