Introduction: Early childhood caries (ECC) is a prevalent noninfectious disease in children posing a significant public health challenge. This study aims to unveil sociodemographic and behavioral factors linked to ECC among children aged 3–6 years in rural areas of Sullia Taluk, Dakshina Kannada district. Identification of these key determinants will help in the implementation of focused interventions that sequentially enhance oral health outcomes, benefiting children and the community. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional epidemiological study was undertaken among 425 children. The data collection process involved a comprehensive questionnaire comprising demographic information, clinical assessments using the World Health Organization dentition status, and validated questions targeting sociodemographic and behavioral determinants. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 21, and a p-value of <0.05 was taken as statistically significant. Results: The study revealed significant associations between ECC prevalence and various factors such as gender (males: 50.38%, females: 59.44%, p < 0.001), age, geographical location, sociocultural background, maternal education, and family structure. Feeding practices significantly impacted caries prevalence, with bottle-fed children showing a higher prevalence (75.89%) than breastfed children (p=0.026). In addition, poor oral hygiene practices, nighttime feeding, and lack of dental visits correlated with higher caries rates. Conclusion: The study highlights the multifaceted nature of ECC, emphasizing the need for targeted public health interventions that address sociodemographic and behavioral determinants. Improved awareness and education regarding oral health practices are crucial in reducing ECC incidence and enhancing child well-being.
Prelacteal feeding (PLF), a prevalent practice in India, exposes infants to risk for health issues and delays the beginning of breastfeeding. Infants who have low birth weight (LBW) are susceptible to its adverse effects. Current research attempts have been in assessing cases of PLF in LBW infants and their association with sociodemographic characteristics. A facility-based cross-sectional study was carried out between March and August 2024 at a Community Health Centre located in Agra district. Consecutive sampling was used for recruiting 80 mothers with LBW infants. A pretested, semistructured questionnaire had been employed for collecting data, and Jamovi software had been employed for analysis. Chi-square test was employed for evaluating the association between PLF and independent factors. Among the 80 participants, 67.5% (n = 54) reported administering prelacteal feed. Liquids were the most common type (72.2%), followed by solids (13%) and a combination of both (14.8%). PLF was significantly associated with maternal education (P = 0.039) and family type (P = 0.004). The high frequency of PLF among LBW infants highlights the need for culturally appropriate counseling and health education, particularly for less-educated women and families living in joint or extended household settings, to promote and support exclusive breastfeeding.
Background: Globally, 2.4 million neonatal deaths (NDs) occur annually within 1st month of life, with India bearing a significant proportion. Perinatal deaths in India are common, yet cause-of-death data are sparse in rural areas. Verbal autopsy (VA), a World Health Organization-endorsed tool, is widely used, but the comparative feasibility of phone versus onsite VA is unclear. Reliable mortality data are crucial for determining causes of deaths and to reduce perinatal mortality. The aim of this study was to compare the feasibility and concordance of key indicators between paired phone and onsite VAs for stillbirths (SBs) and NDs. Material and Methods: This prospective study evaluated the feasibility and data concordance of phone-based versus onsite VAs. Deaths were reported by Accredited Social Health Activists to Foundation for Survival of Women and Children in collaboration with the government. Data measures included maternal demographics, pregnancy and birth details, causes of death, and adverse outcomes. Health service utilization, maternal factors, and interview process metrics were also captured. In a 3 months period, 70 SBs and 64 NDs were investigated. Phone interviews showed agreement with onsite data for delivery type, baby’s sex, tetanus toxoid completion, ultrasound, and caste. Results: Agreement was lower for >3 antenatal coverage visits and gestation age on phone interviews. Most reported causes of SB were prematurity (23 phone; 22 onsite) and fetal distress (18 phone; 17 onsite). For ND, concordance was observed for asphyxia (27 each) and low birth weight (7 each). However, Phone VA required more contact attempts (190 calls for 70 SB and 204 calls for 64 ND) and completion days. Interview time was shorter by phone, but transcription took longer; total effort was lower on phone than onsite (SB: 8972 vs. 10,528 min; ND 9798 vs. 10,515 min). Conclusion: In this rural program, phone VA was feasible but had markedly lower response, higher completion days and higher transcription effort than onsite VA; concordance for several key indicators was acceptable. The data show good concordance but low feasibility in terms of reaching respondents and completion of interviews. A hybrid model – phone screening plus selective onsite validation – may optimize effort and data quality. VAs can be used for improving mortality surveillance within health systems while reducing travel time and costs in rural areas.
Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are highly prevalent among brick kiln workers due to the physically strenuous nature of their tasks, including repetitive lifting, awkward postures, and prolonged working hours. These conditions often lead to reduced work capacity and frequent sickness absenteeism. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of MSDs and identify their key predictors among brick kiln workers in the Basirhat II block of West Bengal. Material and Methods: A community-based, cross-sectional study was conducted from March to June 2024 among 140 adult brick kiln workers selected using stratified random sampling across five brick kiln sites. Data were collected through a predesigned, interviewer-administered questionnaire incorporating the standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Statistical analysis was done using Jamovi version 2.6.26, including multivariate logistic regression to identify independent predictors of MSDs. Results: The prevalence of MSDs was 77.9%, with lower back (34.9%), shoulders (31.2%), and neck (30.3%) being the most commonly affected sites. Multivariate analysis revealed that female gender (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] =5.27; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.89–14.71), overweight or obesity (AOR = 3.44; 95% CI: 1.41–8.42), alcohol consumption (AOR = 3.18; 95% CI: 1.28–7.90), and working more than 48 h per week (AOR = 2.72; 95% CI: 1.03–7.21) were independently associated with MSDs after adjusting for confounders. Chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension showed no significant association. Conclusion: This study highlights the urgent need for gender-sensitive occupational health strategies, ergonomic interventions, regulation of work hours, and targeted health education to reduce the burden of MSDs among brick kiln workers in rural settings.
Nomophobia is the fear of not having access to a mobile phone. Academic stress is characterized by apprehension, persistent concerns and anxiety regarding one’s academic achievement. In the fast-changing world, smartphones have become a very handy tool for students and teachers, and it is not unusual to have a link between nomophobia and academic stress. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of nomophobia and its association with academic stress among medical students. A cross-sectional study was conducted among students in a medical college of North India from January to July 2024. A total of 418 students from the second, third, and final year MBBS batch participated in the study. The data were collected using a semi-structured pro forma, which included an academic stress inventory (seven domains, namely Teachers Stress, Results Stress, Tests Stress, Group Stress, Peer Stress, Time management stress, and Self-inflicted stress), a questionnaire on nomophobia (20 questions) and smartphone usage patterns. The data were analyzed using statistical software, SPSS 21 (trial version). Study participants were aged between 18 and 29 years; males and females were 55.7% and 44.3%, respectively. The majority of the students (69.14%) had moderate levels of nomophobia (males 70.39% and females 67.57%). There is a strong association and correlation between nomophobia and each domain of academic stress. The study reveals a high percentage of moderate level nomophobia in medical students, which may progress to a severe form in the near future.
Background: Screen exposure includes traditional media like television and modern digital platforms such as smartphones, tablets, video gaming, and social media. Excessive screen exposure is associated with language delays, impaired motor skills, and cognitive deficits in children. This study aims to assess the prevalence and parental practices regarding screen exposure in children aged from birth to 36 months, examining sociodemographic factors, parental knowledge, and key determinants. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study assessed screen exposure among 600 developmentally normal children aged from birth to 36 months. Children with sensory or motor impairments, restricted mobility, or developmental delays were excluded from the study. Information on the child’s screen exposure initiation, frequency, and context – including use during meals, entertainment, and academic activities – was recorded. Parental perceptions and reasons for smartphone use were analyzed to understand screen time (ST) patterns and influencing factors. Results: Most mothers were aged 26–35 years, educated, working, and from urban nuclear families. Children were introduced to screens primarily at 9–12 months (60.2%), with 33.2% exceeding 120 min of daily ST. Smartphones were often used during meals (73%) and for entertainment (84.3%), while educational use was minimal (88.2% using them ≤3 days/week). Parents primarily offered smartphones to keep children calm (50.5%) or during feeding (37.3%). Conclusion: Early screen exposure among children aged 0–3 years, often exceeding daily limits, with smartphones used primarily to calm or feed. Parental awareness of developmental risks was low, highlighting the need for educational interventions to promote healthier practices, limit ST, and encourage nonscreen-based engagement for better outcomes.
Background: Health-seeking behavior (HSB) in low-resource settings is influenced by socioeconomic, cultural, and systemic factors. Despite India’s efforts to strengthen public health care, underutilization persists due to perceived quality gaps, accessibility issues, and institutional barriers. This study examines HSB and public healthcare utilization in Azamgarh, a socioeconomically disadvantaged district in Uttar Pradesh. Material and Methods: The cross-sectional community-based survey was conducted (January–May 2025) with 403 participants selected via multistage stratified random sampling. Data on sociodemographics, morbidity, and healthcare preferences were collected through structured interviews. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and logistic regression were used for analysis. Results: Only 16.7% of people used public healthcare facilities, with 31% citing low service quality, 14.2% citing lack of services, and 31% citing preference for reliable private providers. There were significant caste differences, with Other Backward Class and upper-caste people having 66% and 87% lower odds ratios, respectively, of using public health care than Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe (SC/ST) people. Compared to communicable diseases, the likelihood of using public facilities was doubled by noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Utilization of informal health care was found to be significantly higher among the age group 15–19 years, as compared to other age groups; also, it was higher among the people having diseases with shorter duration. Rural, lower-income, and SC/ST populations were more likely to rely on informal health care. Conclusion: Public healthcare underutilization in Azamgarh reflects systemic inadequacies and deep-rooted inequities. Policy interventions must address quality, trust deficits, and caste-based disparities while expanding infrastructure and financial protection schemes like the Ayushman Bharat Scheme (Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojna).
Background: Men who have sex with men (MSM) represent a diverse population, including gay, bisexual, and other men who engage in same-sex sexual behaviors, regardless of how they choose to identify themselves. In many societies, MSM remain subject to stigma, discrimination, and social isolation, which can intensify levels of stress and mental health problems. This study aimed to explore stress indicators and associated social factors among MSM attending a healthcare facility. Material and Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among men who have sex with men (MSM) attending a specialized sexual health clinic in an urban Indian setting. Thirty-five eligible participants were recruited through convenience sampling and interviewed using a structured questionnaire assessing sociodemographic characteristics, disclosure status, stress-related symptoms, coping mechanisms, and social functioning. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and presented as frequencies and proportions. Results: A total of 35 individuals who self-identified as MSM or had a history of same-sex behavior participated. Their ages ranged from 21 to 51 years, with a diverse range of occupations, education levels, and presenting health conditions. The results underscore that stress was pervasive: participants frequently reported somatic symptoms (headaches and poor sleep), psychological distress (nervousness and feelings of worthlessness), and social challenges (reduced social capital and limited family support). In particular, nondisclosure of their MSM status correlated with selected mental health complaints, suggesting the burden of concealment. Higher income and education levels offered some protective factors, such as a greater sense of control over irritations and the ability to handle personal problems, yet stigma persisted across the social strata. Conclusion: These findings mirror the minority stress theory, which posits that external prejudice and internalized homophobia yield heightened stress levels among MSM. The study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions that address psychosocial determinants of health in addition to biomedical concerns, ensuring that MSM can seek comprehensive care without fear of prejudice or loss of confidentiality.
Background: Hypertension is a leading modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease and premature mortality. Despite the availability of effective treatments, adherence to antihypertensive medications remains suboptimal. Socioeconomic status, particularly family income, is a recognized determinant of medication adherence, but evidence from Eastern India is limited. The aim of the study was to assess the proportion of newly diagnosed hypertensive Indian patients having poor medication adherence and to find out if any association exists between poor medication adherence and their socioeconomic status. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over 6 months among 300 adult patients diagnosed with hypertension within the past 12 months. Data on patient characteristics were obtained using a structured questionnaire, and socioeconomic status of the patients was calculated using the modified B.G. Prasad Scale of Socioeconomic Status Classification 2025. Medication adherence was assessed using the Medication Adherence Report Scale-5 (MARS-5), a validated self-reported tool for assessing adherence in chronic diseases. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify predictors, including socioeconomic status, of low adherence. Results: Only 17.3% of participants demonstrated high adherence (MARS-5 score: ≥23), while 38.3% of participants showed low adherence (score: ≤19). A significant inverse relationship was observed between family income and adherence levels. Compared to the Class I income group, Class III, IV, and V had progressively higher odds of low adherence (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 13.9, 22.7, and 85.6, respectively; P < 0.001). Graduate-level educational attainment (AOR = 0.111, P = 0.03) was found to be associated with better adherence in the participants, while longer distance to health facility from home (AOR = 1.042, P = 0.048) was associated with poorer medication adherence. Out-of-pocket expenditure was a significant negative predictor. Conclusion: Medication adherence in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients in Eastern India is significantly influenced by socioeconomic status. Interventions targeting financial hardship and increasing access to care are essential to improve adherence and associated health outcomes.
Introduction: Self-medication in ophthalmology involves the use of eye-related medicines without consulting a healthcare professional. While self-medication is common globally, its misuse can lead to serious complications such as drug resistance and adverse side effects, particularly in the context of ophthalmic conditions. There is limited literature on ophthalmic self-medication in Central India. This study, therefore, aims to assess the prevalence, patterns, and factors associated with self-medication in ophthalmology in a city in Central India. Material and Methods: A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Bhopal city, Central India, from August 2022 to March 2023, involving 398 participants. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic details, prevalence of self-medication, and participants’ knowledge and attitudes toward self-medication practices in ophthalmology. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square and logistic regression tests, with P < 0.05 considered significant. Results: The prevalence of self-medication was 39.2%, with a higher prevalence among men (41%) compared to women (36%). Self-medication was less prevalent among those with higher education and professional occupations. Participants who were aware of the side effects of steroids and antibiotic resistance were less likely to practice self-medication. The most common symptoms leading to self-medication were itching, followed by redness and watering of the eyes. Conclusion: Self-medication in ophthalmology is prevalent, particularly among those with lower education and occupational status. Awareness of medication side effects and drug resistance appears to reduce self-medication practices. Targeted educational interventions are needed to promote safer ophthalmic health practices.
Background: Drug-resistant tuberculosis (DRTB) is a major public health issue, requiring long treatment with potentially toxic and less effective second-line drugs. DRTB patients have reported stigma, discrimination, and fear of disease contagiousness, leading to self-isolation from family and friends, mental health problems, nonadherence, and treatment failure. Thus, it is of utmost importance to know their predominant coping mechanisms and to explore them. Material and Methods: This mixed-method explanatory sequential study was done in the District Tuberculosis Center from February to June 2022. For the quantitative study, a face-to-face interview was conducted for 34 patients selected by census method with a pretested and prevalidated questionnaire comprising the Brief-Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced scale, and for the qualitative component, 5 focus group discussions were conducted among patients and caregivers, and thematic analysis was done. Results: The mean age of study participants was SD=±12.57, and 52.9% were male. 61.8% were on an all-oral longer regimen, and 58.8% belonged to the lower middle class. The mean coping score was 64.74 (SD=±4.98). All study participants (100%) had problem-focused coping as their predominant coping method. Emotion-focused coping and avoidant coping were present in 88.2% and 11.8% of study participants, respectively, as the second most common mechanisms of coping. Problem-solving coping was associated with proper treatment-seeking behavior and good adherence to treatment. Conclusion: Proper counseling and support through family, friends, and peer groups can go a long way in helping such people cope; this necessitates the appointment of counselors at the point of treatment.
Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a debilitating vector-borne disease causing significant morbidity and disability worldwide. Mass drug administration (MDA) is a cost-effective and proven method to combat the disease. Conducted biannually, MDA is pivotal for LF elimination in India. However, there remain challenges and barriers to its implementation. The aim of the study was to adress the gap in understanding operational and behavioral barriers to MDA compliance through monitoring and evaluation of MDA in the postadministration phase of the September 2024 round in high-burden districts. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted from September 3–7, 2024, in two high-burden districts, Kanpur Nagar and Kanpur Dehat, in the endemic state of Uttar Pradesh. Systematic random sampling was used to select four villages, and the eligible populations in 200 households were surveyed using standardized forms. The study highlighted high drug coverage but suboptimal compliance due to fear of side effects, misconceptions, and operational challenges such as poor timing and inadequate IEC activities. Community awareness, trust in drug distributors, and the presence of healthcare workers directly influenced participation. Innovations like real-time drug administration and peer involvement improved outcomes, whereas data recording lapses, logistical issues, and refusal rates continue to hinder the effectiveness of efforts. Effective MDA implementation demands enhanced community engagement, consistent IEC efforts, and improved logistical coordination. Addressing myths and side effect fears through culturally tailored messaging and bridging supervision gaps through routine monitoring with validated tools and reliable data tracking is crucial. Empowering frontline workers and involving beneficiaries in outreach can significantly boost participation.
Introduction: Heterosexual transmission remains the predominant mode of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) spread in India, accounting for nearly 80% of cases. Couples in serodiscordant relationships, where one partner is HIV positive and the other is HIV negative, constitute the largest at-risk group. Although the National AIDS Control Programme recommends routine partner testing every 6 months, there are limited data on the prevalence and determinants of partner HIV testing in India. This study aimed to assess the coverage, drivers, and barriers to spouse testing among people living with HIV (PLHIV). Material and Methods: This mixed-method study was conducted with the help of a predesigned questionnaire and an interview guide on 200 PLHIV participants from August 2023 to July 2024 at the ART center of Malda Medical College, Malda district in West Bengal. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to assess associations, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed from interview transcripts. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Results: Majority (96%) of the participants had tested their spouse for HIV, although the time gap was more than 2 years since the last testing in most of them. Knowing each other’s disease status was top motivating factor, and fear of dissolution of marriage was among the top barriers. Conclusion: The proportion of PLHIV getting their partner tested was much higher as compared to various other studies. A multicentric study, including a larger sample size of PLHIV participants, is needed to better assess the partner-testing status and the related factors behind this.
Background: Asthma, the most common childhood noncommunicable disease, is escalating globally, causing an annual loss of 1.9 disability-adjusted life years per thousand children under 15 in India. With atypical symptoms prevalent, the true disease burden is likely higher. This study, conducted in an urban setting in Central Kerala, aimed to assess bronchial asthma prevalence and associated factors in children aged 5–15 years. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 818 children aged 5–15 in Ettumanoor, Kerala, was conducted using cluster sampling from seven randomly selected Anganwadi areas. The study utilized a semistructured interview schedule based on the ISSAC questionnaire, conducted from March 1, 2015, to March 1, 2016. Results: In this study of 818 children (52.6% males, 66.4% middle socioeconomic class), bronchial asthma prevalence was 10.1% (8.26%-12.41%). Significant associations included joint family, male gender, eczema history, allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, family history of asthma, atopy, floor carpet, and indoor cobwebs. Factors such as infant feeding practices, passive smoking, contact with pets, bed/pillow material, overcrowding, poor ventilation, dampness, absence of a separate kitchen, and smoke outlet showed no significant association. Logistic regression highlighted joint family, allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, family history of asthma, and indoor cobwebs as significant factors. Conclusion: Bronchial asthma prevalence among 5–15-year-olds in Ettumanoor Panchayath is 10.1%. Significant risk factors include modifiable ones, such as indoor allergens and nonmodifiable ones such as atopic history, male gender, and living in joint family. Vigilant follow-up for asthma symptoms is recommended for atopic children, emphasizing the importance of proper indoor cleaning to reduce aeroallergens.
Introduction: Hypertension is a serious medical condition that significantly increases the risks of kidney, heart, brain, and other diseases. Although there is availability of different types of medications for the treatment of hypertension whose efficiency has been proven, the reported levels of blood pressure control are very disappointing. The main reason is noncompliance of hypertensive patients with their regular medications. The present study was conducted to identify the barrriers to medication adherence among hypertensive patients living in the Darbagh area of Srinagar. Material and Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted among hypertensive patients residing in the Darbagh area of Srinagar and who visited the outpatient department of the health center in Darbagh during January 2021–March 2021. In-depth interviews were conducted with each study participant. A total of 40 interviews were conducted. The content analysis technique was used for data analysis. Results: After study and separation of basic concepts, primary codes were extracted from interviews, and thereafter, subthemes or subcategories were derived. The subthemes included economic problems, patient’s attitude toward hypertension, and patient’s environment. Conclusion: The present study underscores the influence of socioeconomic status, forgetfulness, patient perceptions and attitudes toward hypertension, as well as environmental factors, on treatment compliance among individuals with hypertension. These findings can be used for planning intervention techniques to overcome these barriers.
Introduction: COVID-19 (coronavirus infectious disease-19), an emerging respiratory disease, was first reported in early December 2019 in the wholesale food market in Wuhan city, China. It had many after effects that affected everyone, but it particularly affected the medical students who could not be certified as medical graduates due to inability to acquire completion of certain certifiable skills. They could not learn the required skills without attending the hospitals. Hence, it caused anxiety and stress among them. The aim of this study was to assess the level of anxiety and stress among the medical undergraduates using two scales. Material and Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study focused on analyzing the mental health of the medical undergraduates using scales, namely the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scale and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). The quantitative data were presented as mean with standard deviation and qualitative data frequency with percentage. Results: Among the study population, 70% were in the age group of 18–21 years, and of them, 58.3% were male and 41.7% were female. The GAD-7 showed a distribution of mild anxiety in 70%, moderate anxiety in 26%, and severe anxiety in 4% of the students. The PSS showed a distribution of 81.9% in the low-stress group and 18% in the moderate-stress group. About 2.8% of the students tested positive for COVID-19, and 35.4% of the students were quarantined due to contact history. About 58.3% of the students were worried about the crisis, and 50.7% of the students stated that virtual classroom is ineffective for learning medical education. Conclusion: Four percent of the students had severe anxiety, and it could be addressed by personalized counseling sessions and reinforcement activities to help students to cope with the anxiety. Students’ welfare committee can be involved in providing counselling services and take necessary steps to involve students in active learning.
Background: In 2022, breast cancer was the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women globally, with India recording the highest toll (98,337 deaths), primarily due to late detection and low screening awareness (International Agency for Research on Cancer-World Health Organization). The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of breast cancer, breast self-examination, and mammography in women of an urban area. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted for 3 months in the field practice area of the Urban Health Training Center under the Department of Community Medicine, Hamdard Institute of Medical Sciences and Research. The study population consisted of 174 women aged 30 years and above. The data were then collected through a self-designed, pretested, validated structured questionnaire. Data were maintained in the Microsoft Excel sheet, and statistical analysis was done by the SPSS version 26 software. Results: Among the 174 participants, the majority were under 40 years of age (64.9%), Hindu (70.1%), and belonged to the middle (36.7%) or upper (34.4%) economic classes, with most having only primary education (70.6%). Despite 90.8% demonstrating a positive attitude toward breast cancer screening, only 4% had adequate knowledge, and just 8% reported engaging in appropriate screening practices. Conclusion: The study reveals substantial gaps in breast cancer screening knowledge and practices, even with a positive attitude toward screening. To address this, targeted health education, better access to screening facilities, and community awareness campaigns are essential.
Background: Approximately 20,000 deaths due to rabies are reported in India every year, which accounts for 36% of the total rabies-related deaths in the world. Inadequate awareness regarding rabies among grassroot-level health workers is a major contributor to the high incidence of rabies infection and subsequent human mortality in India. This study was conducted to assess the knowledge and practices regarding rabies among multipurpose workers of Health and Wellness Centre-Sub Health Centres (HWC-SHCs) in Bishnupur District, Manipur. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, including all the multipurpose workers of HWC-SHCs in Bishnupur district. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire through face-to-face interviews and were summarized using descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation [SD], and percentages). The association between variables of interest was analyzed using the Chi-square test. Results: A total of 55 health workers participated in the study, of which 69.1% were females (n = 38). The mean (SD) work experience of the participants was 15.88 (5.3) years. About 10.9% (n = 6) of the participants had adequate knowledge regarding rabies. Conclusion: Only one in every ten participants had adequate knowledge regarding rabies. It is necessary to conduct educational programs on rabies, focusing on multipurpose workers who act as the first point of contact of the health system with the community.
