Tag: nevin manimala

Int Breastfeed J. 2025 Feb 24;20(1):10. doi: 10.1186/s13006-024-00689-y.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Breastfeeding protects mothers against breast cancer. Our study aimed to estimate the healthcare cost-savings resulting from a reduction in breast cancer attributed to an increase in the breastfeeding rate in Hong Kong.

METHODS: This is an economic evaluation. We constructed an individual-based Monte Carlo method to simulate with probabilistic sensitivity analysis the development of breast cancer over a woman’s lifetime in a hypothetical birth cohort aged 20 years in 2018 (n = 33500) using best available data mainly from government statistics. We predicted the cases of, and deaths due to breast cancer in the base case (with the actual breastfeeding rate in 2018) and two hypothetical optimal scenarios (90% exclusive breastfeeding for six months or cumulative exclusive/partial breastfeeding for at least 12 months). The healthcare cost-savings, the number of deaths averted and the increase in disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) due to the prevention of breast cancer attributed to a higher breastfeeding rate were then deduced, assuming an annual discount rate of 3%.

RESULTS: Increasing the proportion of parous women breastfeeding exclusively for six months from 26 to 90% averted 266 (95% CI 259, 273) or ~ 10% of all-stage breast cancer cases, 18 deaths (95% CI 17, 19) and 399 DALYs (95% CI 381, 416), over the lifetime of each annual cohort of women in Hong Kong. The lifetime medical costs that could be saved would be ~ USD3 million using 2018 prices. However cost-savings were 5-times less in another scenario where the cumulative partial/exclusive breastfeeding for 12 months in parous women is increased to 90% due to its weaker protection against breast cancer compared to exclusive breastfeeding.

CONCLUSIONS: Promoting and protecting breastfeeding could lead to cost-savings for treating breast cancer in Hong Kong. Our analysis can inform the annual healthcare budget that could be allocated to promote exclusive breastfeeding for six months.

PMID:39994674 | DOI:10.1186/s13006-024-00689-y

Malar J. 2025 Feb 24;24(1):61. doi: 10.1186/s12936-025-05296-8.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Thrombocytopenia is a common haematological abnormality in malaria patients that is associated with an increased risk of mortality. Given the endemic nature of malaria in Ethiopia, it is crucial to comprehend the prevalence of thrombocytopenia in this setting to enhance clinical care. Therefore, this study aimed to systematically review and synthesize the available evidence on the prevalence of thrombocytopenia among malaria patients in Ethiopia.

METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis reviewed studies on thrombocytopenia prevalence in malaria patients, using databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE, African Journals online database, and Hinary. STATA version 17 software was used for statistical analysis. A random-effects model was used to estimate pooled effect sizes. Heterogeneity among the included studies was assessed using Galbraith, Cochran’s Q test, and I² statistics. Subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and meta-regression were conducted to identify the source of heterogeneity. Publication bias was evaluated using a funnel plot and Egger’s test.

RESULTS: Of the 154 studies identified, 31 that fulfilled the eligibility criteria were included in the meta-analysis consisting of 1173 study participants and 823 thrombocytopenic cases. The pooled prevalence of thrombocytopenia was 70% (95% CI: 63, 77) with significant heterogeneity. Subgroup analysis showed the highest pooled prevalence of thrombocytopenia in the Southern Nations Nationalities and Peoples’ region (78.34%) followed by the Amhara region (69.7%), whereas the lowest prevalence was observed in the Gambella Region (63.4%). The sample size was responsible for the observed heterogeneity among the studies, as indicated by the statistically significant result in the meta-regression analysis (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION: Thrombocytopenia is a frequent abnormality finding among malaria patients in Ethiopia, affecting a substantial percentage of individuals. The high frequency found in this research emphasizes the significance of regular platelet monitoring in the treatment of malaria patients. Further studies are needed to investigate the clinical implications of thrombocytopenia in malaria patients.

PMID:39994667 | DOI:10.1186/s12936-025-05296-8

BMC Nurs. 2025 Feb 24;24(1):208. doi: 10.1186/s12912-025-02795-6.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Scholars are undermining the empowerment of holistic nursing care competence in developing countries like Ethiopia, compromising the care provided by competent nurses in clinical areas.

OBJECTIVE: To assess holistic nursing care competence and associated factors among nurses working in the Government Hospitals of South Wollo Zone, Northeast Ethiopia, 2022.

METHODS: An institutional-based cross-sectional study design was carried out involving 446 nurses. A random sampling technique was employed to select participants, and a self-administered questionnaire was utilized. The data were coded, entered into Epidata version 4.6.0.2, and subsequently exported to the Statistical Package for Social Science version 27 for analysis. The findings were summarized using tables. Linear regression model analysis was implemented and variables with p-values less than 0.05 were identified as significant predictor variables.

RESULTS: The mean score of staff education and management, ethical-oriented practice, general aptitude, and nursing care in the team and professional development domains of holistic nursing care competence were 3.8 ± 1.3 (3.7-3.9),4 ± 1.4 (3.9-4.2), 4.2 ± 1.3 (4-4.3), 4 ± 1.4 (3.8-4) and 3.9 ± 1.5 (3.7-4) respectively. Being female, having frequency of training, being single, working primary hospital, having workload, and being staff had a positive relationship with holistic nursing care competence domains, whereas poor job satisfaction, age and low self-efficacy had a negative relationship with holistic nursing care competence domains.

CONCLUSION: Staff education and management, ethical-oriented practice, general aptitude, nursing care in the team, and professional development domains of holistic nursing care competence mean scores were recorded low. Therefore, the hospital managers and other responsible bodies should pay special attention to empowering nurses by enhancing their management capacity, fostering team care, promoting professional growth, improving problem-solving capacity, ensuring compliance with nursing ethics guidelines, focusing on staff motivation, and boosting their professional confidence.

PMID:39994662 | DOI:10.1186/s12912-025-02795-6

BMC Public Health. 2025 Feb 24;25(1):744. doi: 10.1186/s12889-025-21571-4.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of metabolic risk factors, including glucose intolerance, dyslipidemia, central obesity, high triglyceride levels, and low levels of high-density lipoprotein. It is the commonest type of co-morbidity among people with psychiatric conditions particularly in low and middle-income countries due to poor health care systems and financial burden. Metabolic syndrome among people with psychiatric conditions may be due to prolonged use of psychiatric medications, diminished quality of life, and personal and behavioral-related factors. Except for single studies with fluctuating reports, there is no nationwide study conducted on the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among people with psychiatric conditions in Ethiopia. Thus, this review aims to estimate the pooled prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its association with selected factors among people with psychiatric conditions in Ethiopia.

METHODS: We conducted a thorough search of PubMed, Scopus, Wiley online library, African journals online, and Google Scholar. For analysis, STATA version 14 software was used. A funnel plot and Egger’s regression test statistic were used to find the potential reporting bias. A fixed effect model was used to contrast summary effects, odds ratios, and 95% confidence intervals all over research findings. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to evaluate the quality of each included study.

RESULTS: Eight articles were included in the final review after retrieving 9,714 articles through electronic database searching. By using the national cholesterol education adult treatment panel criteria, the pooled prevalence of metabolic syndrome among people with psychiatric conditions in Ethiopia was found to be 37.33% (95%CI: 24.52-50.14). Being female AOR = 2.66; 95% CI: 0.89, 7.92), urban residency (AOR = 2.84; 95% CI: 0.56, 14.45), physical inactivity (AOR = 3.80; 95% CI: 1.61, 8.98), alcohol consumption (AOR = 4.53; 95% CI: 1.62, 12.71) and body mass index higher than the normal range (AOR = 4.66; 95% CI: 1.22, 17.85) were the factors significantly associated with metabolic syndrome among people with psychiatric conditions. According to the review, schizophrenic-form disorder, delusional disorder, major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder were the frequently reported psychiatric conditions.

CONCLUSION: This systematic review and meta-analysis revealed that the magnitude of metabolic syndrome among people with psychiatric conditions in Ethiopia was high and female gender, physical inactivity, alcohol consumption, and body mass index higher than the normal range were the factors that determined the occurrence of metabolic syndrome. Thus, policymakers, clinicians, and other concerned stakeholders must reinforce effective strategies in the control, timely screening, prevention, and management of metabolic syndrome among people with psychiatric conditions.

PROTOCOL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD42023405293.

PMID:39994655 | DOI:10.1186/s12889-025-21571-4

BMC Complement Med Ther. 2025 Feb 24;25(1):76. doi: 10.1186/s12906-025-04822-0.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Food medicine homology originated in ancient China and has been officially named food-medicine dual-purpose substances (FMS). However, the relationship between residents’ knowledge, attitudes, practices (KAP) and FMS among adults in China remains unclear. This study evaluated the current situation of FMS-related knowledge, awareness and actual consumption behaviors and practices of Chinese residents to provide a basis for both perfect related regulations and scientific advice on FMS consumption.

METHODS: A cross-sectional online survey on FMS perception and consumption was conducted through a convenience sampling strategy from August to December 2020. A total of 2,815 residents (96.3% were aged between 18 and 50 years old, 47.8% were male and 52.2% were female) from 31 provinces were recruited for this study. Descriptive analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed in the statistical analysis.

RESULTS: The results showed that residents’ identification of FMS had an accurate response rate of 22.7% (640/2,815). Educational level was the factor associated with residents’ knowledge of FMS. A total of 62.0% (1,744/2,815) of the residents would take the initiative to learn more about FMS. 93.8% (2,639/2,815) of them thought that manufacturers should make clear food labels when they add FMS. Almost half of the residents bought FMS products frequently (more than 12 times per year), and 96.1% (1,880/2,747) of the residents bought FMS mainly used for healthcare. Among the FMS they had ever consumed, the two most frequently consumed FMS by residents were yam (35.3%) and wolfberry (15.9%). 40.6%(1,143/2,815) of residents hoped that the government could increase publicity and conduct more popular science activities.

CONCLUSION: The findings indicate that adult residents in China who have substantial knowledge of FMS are not optimistic; however, they express positive attitudes toward knowing and consuming FMS, and there is a high need for labeling and a high demand for consumption. It is imperative to enhance research and policy development regarding FMS, to actively promote FMS knowledge, and to guide residents towards a more scientific and rational consumption of FMS in the future.

PMID:39994653 | DOI:10.1186/s12906-025-04822-0

BMC Womens Health. 2025 Feb 25;25(1):86. doi: 10.1186/s12905-025-03607-4.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: A breast cancer diagnosis can impact every aspect of a woman’s life, particularly for women diagnosed before age 45 when they are in the process of establishing stability in their personal and professional lives. This study investigated the impact of a breast cancer diagnosis on employment, finances, and personal relationships among young breast cancer survivors.

METHODS: We conducted descriptive statistical analysis of survey data from 315 women diagnosed with breast cancer before age 45. Surveys were administered electronically and included 40 questions on demographics asking about employment, insurance, income, and marital status at two time points: at diagnosis and at the time the survey was completed. Descriptive and regression analyses were conducted. The McNemar-Bowker Test of Symmetry was used to calculate the significance of changes in employment, insurance, income, and marital status at the two time points.

RESULTS: We found significant changes following diagnosis in employment and insurance. Prior to diagnosis, 68.6% of respondents were employed full time, compared to 52.4% following diagnosis – falling from 212 to 162 respondents. Individuals who were unable to work increased by 14.6% after diagnosis, rising from 4 to 49 respondents. The decline in full-time employment was highest among those with a diagnosis of Stage IV cancer (33.9%), with the number of full-time worker respondents falling from 79 to 41. We found a significant change in insurance (p < .001) with a decline in individuals with private or no insurance of 4.7% and 3.4%, respectively, while those with public insurance increased by 8.1%.

CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that young breast cancer survivors are particularly vulnerable to changes in employment, with more than a tenfold increase in the number of young women who reported being unable to work following diagnosis. Our findings also indicate a significant shift from private to public insurance, particularly for individuals living with Stage IV cancer. These results point to opportunities to address the specific needs of young women diagnosed with breast cancer and improve their overall quality of life.

PMID:39994652 | DOI:10.1186/s12905-025-03607-4

BMC Public Health. 2025 Feb 24;25(1):761. doi: 10.1186/s12889-025-21780-x.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Globally, uncertainty persists regarding the prevalence of comorbidities in noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) among people living with HIV (PLWH) compared those without HIV. This uncertainty extends to the degree of nonrandom associations between comorbidities in both populations, particularly in resource-limited settings.

METHODS: This cross-sectional study involved 343 HIV-infected individuals (cases) and 686 HIV-uninfected counterparts (controls), with a 1:2 individual matching ratio. Nonrandom associations between comorbidities were assessed using Somers’ D statistic.

RESULTS: Comorbidity prevalence was significantly higher in cases (48.7%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 43.4%-54.0%) than in controls (26.8%, 95% CI: 23.5%-30.1%). Cases exhibited more comorbidities than controls (6 and 4, respectively). Depression, cardiovascular diseases, chronic liver disease, chronic kidney disease, and chronic renal insufficiency were more prevalent among cases (25.7%, 7.9%, 11.1%, 3.5%, 2.0%, respectively) compared to controls. No significant differences were observed in the prevalence of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and musculoskeletal disorders between the two populations (cases: 7.9%, 12.5%, 0.3%, 6.4%, respectively; controls: 5.1%, 15.6%, 0.1%, 3.9%, respectively). Nonrandom associations between comorbidities were statistically significant in both groups, with Somers’ D values ranging from 0.101 to 0.982 in cases and from 0.102 to 0.472 in controls.

CONCLUSIONS: The HIV-infected population demonstrates a higher prevalence of comorbidities compared to the HIV-uninfected population. Nonrandom associations between comorbidities exist in both populations, with stronger associations observed among PLWH.

PMID:39994646 | DOI:10.1186/s12889-025-21780-x

BMC Pediatr. 2025 Feb 25;25(1):135. doi: 10.1186/s12887-024-05314-9.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: A road traffic accident is a collision between vehicles, between pedestrians and vehicles, between vehicles and animals, or between fixed obstacles and vehicles that leads to fatal human injury and premature death. Children are highly vulnerable to road traffic accident death. Yet, evidence is scarce concerning it in this study area. This study aimed to determine the magnitude of mortality and associated factors among road traffic accident victim children.

METHODS: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 391 victimized children using simple random sampling techniques from March 1st, 2021, to April 30th, 2021. The sample size was calculated using a single population proportion formula, and the data were collected retrospectively using a structured checklist. The data were checked for completeness and consistency, coded, entered into EPI Data version 3.1, and then transferred to STATA version 14 statistical software for analysis. Bivariate and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the association between dependent and independent variables. An adjusted odds ratio with a 95% CI was used to measure the strength of the association, and a P-value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULT: The overall mortality was 10.7% (95% CI: 8- 14). Patients’ age within 1- 4 years (AOR (95%CI: 7(2.0-24.6)), urgent need of blood transfusion (AOR (95%CI: 3.2(1.03-9.8)), Glasgow coma scale < 8 (AOR (95%CI: 6.7(2.1-20.8)), surgery done (AOR (95%CI: 4.7(1.6-14.1)), and length of stay < 5 days (AOR (95%CI: 4.7(1.6-13.3)) were significantly associated with mortality of road traffic accident victim children.

CONCLUSION: The overall mortality was high compared with other countries’ findings. Being young, in urgent need of blood transfusion, Glasgow coma scale < 8, undergoing surgery, and short length of stay were significantly associated with mortality of road traffic accident victim children. This study recommended prioritizing young children and timely blood transfusions for emergency cases.

PMID:39994643 | DOI:10.1186/s12887-024-05314-9

BMC Nurs. 2025 Feb 24;24(1):207. doi: 10.1186/s12912-025-02859-7.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Ensuring patient safety is critical, with safe medication management being a key aspect. However, nursing students often lack the necessary skills for effective medication management. These students need to acquire the required competencies during their undergraduate studies.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the self-perceived status of Iranian nursing students in medication safety management.

DESIGN: An analytical cross-sectional study.

METHOD: The study involved 221 nursing students who completed surveys assessing their self-perception of drug management and dosage calculation. Demographic data were also collected. The data collection forms included a self-perception questionnaire and a dosage calculation test. Analytical tests such as independent sample t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and descriptive statistics were employed for data analysis using SPSS 22.0 software.

RESULTS: Our research found that the average self-perception score of students in medication management was 57.65 ± 13.53 (range = 24-96). Linear regression analysis revealed that higher overall GPAs (F = 38.098, p < 0.001) and work experience in a hospital (t = 10.367, p < 0.001) were associated with improved self-perception skills in medication management. Additionally, individuals with increasing age demonstrated better self-assessment skills in managing safe medications.

CONCLUSION: This study underscores the importance of nursing education in enhancing students’ competencies in safe medication management. Specific interventions are recommended to improve knowledge and skills, and sociodemographic factors can help identify students needing additional support. Increasing clinical exposure is also suggested to enhance their competencies.

PMID:39994635 | DOI:10.1186/s12912-025-02859-7

BMC Public Health. 2025 Feb 24;25(1):764. doi: 10.1186/s12889-025-21975-2.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: The present study aimed to investigate the associations of depression with muscle mass and muscle strength, and whether these associations were modified or mediated by dietary energy intake and dietary quality.

METHODS: Our study included participants aged 40 and above from the 2011-2018 cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Depression was evaluated using the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire. Skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) and handgrip strength (HGS) were used to evaluate muscle mass and muscle strength, respectively. Information on dietary intake were obtained via dietary recall. Dietary quality was assessed using healthy eating index-2015 (HEI-2015). We performed multivariable linear regression models to examine the associations of depression with SMI (N = 3,648) and HGS (N = 4,679). Interaction analyses and mediation analyses were conducted to test the effect of dietary energy intake and HEI-2015 on the associations of depression with SMI and HGS.

RESULTS: Depression was associated with decreased SMI and HGS. Interactions between depression and HEI-2015 were observed for SMI, but not for HGS. The stratified analyses showed that depression was associated with decreased SMI in participants whose HEI-2015 were lower than the median. Mediation analyses revealed that dietary energy intake mediated the associations of depression with SMI and HGS.

CONCLUSION: HEI-2015 modified the associations between depression and muscle mass. The inverse associations of depression with muscle mass and muscle strength were partially mediated by dietary energy intake. These findings emphasized the importance of dietary energy intake and dietary quality in preventing muscle loss in middle-aged and older participants with depression.

PMID:39994633 | DOI:10.1186/s12889-025-21975-2