Epidemiological Study of Menstrual Health and Associated Sociodemographic Factors among School-Going Adolescent Girls Aged 12–16 Years in Rural Coastal Andhra Pradesh

Background: Menstrual health is a critical component of adolescent well-being, yet substantial disparities persist in low-resource settings where awareness, infrastructure, and support systems remain inadequate. This study assessed menstrual health patterns and examined the association of menstrual problems, including premenstrual syndrome (PMS), with sociodemographic factors among school-going adolescent girls in rural coastal Andhra Pradesh. Methods: A cross-sectional epidemiological study was conducted among 155 adolescent girls aged 12–16 years selected using simple random sampling in Tuni Mandal, Kakinada District, Andhra Pradesh. Data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire capturing sociodemographic characteristics, menstrual history, hygiene practices, and menstrual disorders. Descriptive statistics and stratified analyses were used. Results: The mean age at menarche was 12.25 years (SD = 1.90). Irregular menstrual cycles were reported by 76.8% of participants, PMS by 58.7%, painful periods by 25.8%, and heavy discharge by 14.2%. Higher prevalence of menstrual problems was observed among girls from low-income households and among those whose parents were illiterate. Conclusion: We identified a substantial burden of menstrual problems among adolescent girls in rural coastal Andhra Pradesh. Sociodemographic disadvantage appears to be an important contextual determinant, underscoring the need for school-based menstrual hygiene interventions and community-level strategies to strengthen parental awareness and support

A KAP Study on the Dietary Habits and Lifestyle Pattern of School-going Adolescents (13–17 years) of Kolkata and Post Intervention Analysis

Introduction: Diet and lifestyle patterns play a significant role on the quality of life of adolescents and it is a key time to address nutritional deficiencies to support adequate growth and foster sound dietary practices for the future. Aims and Objectives: This study aims to determine the dietary habits and lifestyle patterns and their impact on the quality of life on school going adolescents in Kolkata, West Bengal. Methodology: A survey was conducted among 400 respondents aged 13–17 years by a self-administered, semi-structured questionnaire, selected by purposive random sampling in different zones of Kolkata. An intervention program was also implemented through a “Nutrition Education Program” to raise awareness about healthier eating choices and better lifestyle habits along with the introduction of fiber rich snack to offer a healthier snack option. Results and Discussion: The findings revealed that dietary habits and lifestyle patterns are significantly interrelated. 62% adolescents showed increased screen time and affected by social media and societal influences, while 85% engaged in physical activities with adequate sleep. However, 27% showed lack of regular fiber intake along with high consumption of packaged snacks. Binge eating along with skipping meals were also observed among respondents. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the dietary habits and lifestyle pattern create absolute impact on the quality of life of adolescent with predominant gut health issues and the changes in the dietary habits and lifestyle pattern was observed in post-intervention reducing the clinical manifestation significantly

Challenges in Engaging the Private Sector for Ensuring Standards of TB Care: A Case Study from Delhi, India

Introduction: Despite many efforts by the National TB Elimination Program (NTEP), ensuring standards of TB care for people with TB have not been really converted into routine practice in the private sector of the state of Delhi. The current study aims at documenting the challenges faced by the Delhi state to partner with formal private healthcare delivery providers for ensuring quality TB care. Methods: A case study approach was adopted to understand the case through a primary descriptive exploration. A scoping review of nine research studies and analysis of data from various TB annual reports from 2015 to 2024 and project reports were performed. 23 In-depth interviews with private providers, policy makers, and program staff were conducted. The grounded theory approach was used to generate a single theory of the case itself that explains it. Results: With limited human resources and their managerial capacity, NTEP found it difficult to reach out to the fragmented multitude of private healthcare providers. Private sector had various concerns to engage with NTEP including breach in the confidentiality of the clients and cumbersome documentation process. TB care indicators improved in terms of quality service delivery from the private sector when a third-party agency was engaged by NTEP; however, the same started declining with the project closure. Poor stakeholder interests, lack of mutual trust, lack of sustained interaction between the sectors, and lack of a system for co-ordination were major challenges leading to poor sustainability beyond the project duration. Conclusion: A proactive effort by the public sector with a strategic policy direction for private sector engagement, understanding and addressing the concerns of the private sector and gaining their trust, capacity building of NTEP staff to deal with private sector, making the documentation process simple, and creating a platform for dialog between sectors can enhance further engagement

Impact of 24-hour Postural Care in Management of Scoliosis, Windswept Deformity, Hip Dislocation, and Subluxation in Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Literature Review

Cerebral Palsy (CP) describes various challenges with movement and coordination caused by early brain damage which does not progress with age. CP is a lifelong condition and is usually associated with secondary complications across the lifespan. This review aims to explore the impact of twenty-four-hour postural care in prevention and management of secondary complications such as scoliosis, windswept deformity and hip dislocation or subluxation in children with cerebral palsy. The studies published between 2014 and 2025, in English language in databases PubMed and Google Scholar were included. 19 studies were reviewed which indicated use of postural care and control in preventing subsequent issues such as hip dislocation, contractures, windswept deformities, and scoliosis. Supported standing, weight-bearing exercises, and neurodevelopmental treatment were among the interventions that have been shown to increase comfort, involvement, and caring ease. Postural management has been shown to improve alignment, decrease hip migration, and thereby increase functional independence. While proactive and early postural control is encouraging overall, more research is needed to determine how best to use it and what will be its long-term effects. There seems to be a lacunae of information regarding use of 24 hour postural care in preventing complications in children with CP, what protocol to follow and addressing the most vulnerable CP children with severe motor deficits. A key component of long-term postural care will also be incorporating caregiver education and adjustments to everyday routines. All measures and ways which can help to prevent or prolong the incidence of secondary complications in individuals with CP are supposed to have a positive impact on the life of individuals and their family

Management of Complex Trans sphincteric Fistula in Ano with Distal Fistulectomy with Proximal Staged Fistulotomy using Ksharasutra: A Case Study

According to Sushruta Samhita, Bhagandar is one of the Ashta Mahagada. Because of its recurrent nature, this condition is more challenging to cure. Ksharasutra has already demonstrated efficacy in treating fistula-in-Ano. In this case report, a 42-year-old male patient had complaints of pain at the perianal region, boil at the perianal region with pus discharge for 1 year. On examination, external opening is present at 3 o’ clock position, and an internal opening is at 6 o’clock position. Induration palpated from 3 to 6 o’ clock position. Transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) revealed trans-sphincteric fistula-in-ano. Patient underwent partial fistulectomy with ksharasutra application under sadal block. After 2 weeks, two Ksharasutra placed in external fistulous tracts were removed when the track got healthy, and the one connected with the external opening was changed weekly once by the railroad method. Within 7 weeks, the wound was healed completely and without any recurrence

From Guidelines to Game Changers: Unravelling India’s COVID-19 Saga of Challenges and Corrections

Aims: This article aims to analyze India’s multifaceted response to the COVID-19 pandemic, tracing the evolution from initial guidelines to transformative solutions. It examines key phases, including lockdown measures, resource scaling, testing and reporting challenges, the second wave’s impact, death rate statistics, vaccination efforts, and the role of the CoWIN platform, highlighting systemic issues, corrective measures, and innovative interventions. Methods: The study employs a narrative review approach, synthesizing information from the article to outline India’s pandemic response. It critically examines phases of the crisis, including lockdown implementation, testing capacity expansion, second-wave challenges, and vaccination strategies. Special attention is given to less-discussed aspects, such as accusations surrounding testing and reporting, oxygen shortages, misinformation, and the CoWIN platform’s logistical and data-driven contributions. The analysis integrates statistical insights and systemic evaluations to provide a comprehensive overview. Results: India’s response began with stringent lockdowns to curb viral spread, followed by efforts to scale testing and healthcare resources. Accusations of inconsistent testing and reporting prompted transparency measures. The second wave revealed critical oxygen shortages, exposing healthcare system vulnerabilities and triggering rapid reforms. High death rates underscored the pandemic’s severity, while misinformation hindered vaccination efforts. The CoWIN platform emerged as a game-changer, streamlining vaccine distribution, addressing logistical challenges, and enabling data-driven crisis management, marking a pivotal shift in the response strategy. Conclusion: India’s COVID-19 journey reflects a dynamic response to an unprecedented crisis, characterized by initial containment efforts, systemic challenges, and innovative solutions. While lockdowns and resource scaling laid the groundwork, the second wave exposed critical gaps. The CoWIN platform’s introduction was transformative, enhancing vaccination efficiency and data utilization. Addressing misinformation and systemic issues remains crucial for future preparedness. This analysis underscores the importance of adaptability and innovation in managing public health crises

Impact of Lockdown Restrictions on Mental Well-being in Adult Population not Infected with Covid-19

The worldwide effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have led to considerable physical and psychological strain. To curb the transmission of the virus, India implemented a nationwide lockdown, which created new challenges to mental health. The objective of this research is to investigate the mental health challenges faced by individuals in India during the nationwide lockdown. A prospective, observational, cross-sectional study was conducted with 300 participants in the physiology department of MGM Medical College and Hospital. The study used the Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale-21 questionnaire to assess participants’ levels of depression, anxiety, and stress before and during the lockdown in two age groups: 19–30 and 31–50 years. The results indicated a significant increase in depression, anxiety, and stress levels during the lockdown compared to before it. The findings suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdown had a profound negative impact on the mental health of the participants

To Assess Cardiovascular Risk in Cases of Spinal Cord Injury by Screening Impaired Glucose Tolerance and Dyslipidemia – Prospective Study

Aim: To assess cardiovascular risk in spinal cord injury (SCI) by screening IGT and dyslipidemia. Purpose: With advances in acute care and management of septicemia, renal failure, pneumonia, and Cardiovascular complication is the leading cause of death in SCI. Physical inactivity, increased abdominal fat promotes insulin resistance and dyslipidemia promoting cardio vascular morbidity. Methodology: The sample size of 100 is considered with inclusion and exclusion criteria defined for SCI cases Parameters considered are (a) Fasting lipid profile, (b) HbA1C, (c) OGTT. Results: Based on the analysis, patients had hypo as well as hyperglycemia in addition to dyslipidemia. Conclusion: Metabolic abnormalities act as a multiplier effect for increasing the CV risk

Immediate Effects of Early Chest Physiotherapy on Hemodynamic and Ventilatory Parameters in Mechanically Ventilated Adult Patients: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Background: Mechanical ventilation is a life-saving intervention in intensive care units (ICUs); however, prolonged ventilation increases the risk of ventilator-associated complications. Early chest physiotherapy (CPT) has been suggested to improve lung compliance, secretion clearance, and hemodynamic stability in patients on mechanical ventilation. However, few studies have evaluated their immediate effects. Objective: The objective is to determine the immediate effects of early CPT on hemodynamic and ventilatory parameters in mechanically ventilated adult patients. Methods: A quasi-experimental pre–post study was conducted on 50 mechanically ventilated adults admitted to the ICU. Participants received early CPT, including manual percussion, vibration, manual hyperinflation, and endotracheal suctioning, for 3 consecutive days. Hemodynamic (heart rate, respiratory rate, mean arterial pressure, SpO2) and ventilatory (compliance, resistance, and peak inspiratory pressure [PIP]) parameters were recorded pre- and post-intervention each day. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences v20 with repeated measures analysis of variance. Results: Early CPT significantly improved ventilatory parameters, including compliance (P < 0.05), reduced resistance (P < 0.05), and PIP (P < 0.05). SpO2 showed a significant increase post-CPT, whereas the respiratory rate significantly decreased. No adverse events were reported. Conclusion: Early CPT leads to immediate improvements in lung dynamics and hemodynamic stability in mechanically ventilated adults, without causing adverse effects. These findings highlight the importance of early physiotherapy interventions in ICUs

Orthorexia Nervosa: A Critical Review of an Emerging Disordered Eating Pattern

Orthorexia nervosa (ON) is an emerging and controversial eating behavior characterized by an unhealthy obsession with consuming only foods perceived as healthy or pure. Although not yet officially recognized in diagnostic manuals, ON has garnered growing attention from researchers, clinicians, and public health professionals due to its increasing prevalence, especially among health-conscious populations. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of ON by examining its conceptual evolution, diagnostic challenges, associated risk factors, clinical manifestations, and treatment approaches. An in-depth search of peer-reviewed literature was conducted to synthesize current findings on the epidemiology, psychological and sociocultural determinants, and assessment tools used to identify ON. The review highlights the overlap between ON and other eating or obsessive-compulsive disorders, emphasizing the need for standardized diagnostic criteria and validated assessment instruments. Despite its focus on health, ON can lead to severe nutritional deficiencies, psychological distress, and social isolation. The findings underscore the importance of increased awareness among healthcare professionals and the development of targeted interventions. Further research is needed to establish ON as a distinct clinical entity and to inform effective prevention and treatment strategies