How genetic determinism and essentialism relate to health care

Genetics has become important in various areas of life, especially in healthcare. People can undergo a range of genetic testing to assess their susceptibility to acquiring diseases. Nevertheless, data derived from genetic testing might indicate bias due to genetic determinism and essentialism. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive analysis of the impact of genetic determinism and essentialism on several aspects of healthcare. This study conducted a systematic review approach using the Scopus database and followed the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta analysis (PRISMA) search framework. We initially received 802 publications, then reduced to 49 articles based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, and then content analysis was conducted. Our research showed that determinist bias and genetic essentialism may reduce patient diagnosis, treatment accuracy, and effectiveness. Moreover, biases related to genetic determinism and essentialism may go against healthcare regulations and cause discrimination and other negative clinical outcomes from ethical, social, and legal aspects. To improve this problem, it is essential for laypeople, particularly medical experts, to understand genetic principles related to the development of variances in traits among individuals in a precise and relatable approach

Physical activity, sleeping pattern, and road accidents among Saudi population in Najran Province during the month of Ramadan

This study examined the impact of Ramadan fasting on physical activity and sleep patterns among Saudis in Najran, Saudi Arabia. Seventy-three male and female volunteers completed a self-reported questionnaire over five days at Najran University Hospital. Data collected included demographics, physical activity levels, sedentary behaviors, sleep duration, social activities, and mood changes. Results showed that only 29 participants (39.9%) considered themselves physically active, while 44 (60.3%) were sedentary. The mean age of the active group was 41.60±8.21 years. Among females, only 7 (31.8%) were physically active, while 15 (68.2%) were inactive. Factors such as night work, mood changes, and indoor social activities significantly influenced physical activity levels (p<0.005). Regarding sleep, the physically active group had a mean daily sleep duration of 7.43±1.52 hours, while the sedentary group slept an average of 10.20±2.11 hours, showing a statistically significant difference. These findings suggest that Ramadan fasting influences both physical activity and sleep patterns, potentially affecting overall health and well-being

Dental health among adolescents in Kosovo, investigating risk factors and prevalence trends

Dental caries remains a critical public health issue among children in Kosovo, caused by a complex interplay of dietary habits that contribute to the deterioration of oral health. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of dental caries in adolescents aged 12 to 16 years and to identify associated risk factors. A cross-sectional study design was employed, involving 120 students from elementary schools in the Suhareka municipality, who underwent clinical oral examinations and completed self-administered questionnaires between January and June 2023. The caries prevalence was quantified using the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) index. Statistical analysis, performed using SPSS 26.0, demonstrated a significant association between dietary behaviors and caries incidence, with higher consumption rates correlating with increased DMFT scores. ANOVA and Fisher’s post hoc tests were utilized to assess variables impacting caries progression, while the Chi-square test of independence was applied for intergroup comparisons. The status of permanent dentition was systematically evaluated through the DMFT index, with results interpreted within a 95% confidence interval. Both intrinsic and extrinsic factors affecting enamel resilience were explored, with an emphasis on developing targeted strategies to prevent dental deterioration and enhance oral health among adolescents. The outcomes of this study offer valuable insights for improving pediatric oral health in Kosovo and provide evidence-based recommendations for policymakers and healthcare professionals to formulate effective preventive strategies and public health interventions in similar demographic contexts

Viral hepatitis morbidity and mortality data in major urban cities in the Philippines

This study investigates the transmission, impact, and prevention of viral hepatitis A (HAV), hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV), hepatitis D (HDV), and hepatitis E (HEV) in the National Capital Region (NCR) and Region 7, Philippines, from 1960 to 2020. These infections significantly contribute to liver complications, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, affecting mental well-being and posing risks to pregnant women. Although hepatitis mortality is notable, complete treatment can mitigate the risk. Transmission occurs through various routes, such as blood products, body secretions, and perinatal routes. The study underscores the importance of understanding transmission and implementing screening and prevention measures. Vaccination, particularly for Hepatitis A and B, is crucial, reshaping disease epidemiology through universal infant immunization. Challenges like low vaccination coverage persist, especially among children and healthcare workers. Analyzing mortality data reveals a significant recent decrease attributed to government efforts and vaccination programs since 1995. Despite regional variations, mortality remains relatively low. The study recommends prioritizing and expanding vaccination programs, raising awareness, improving healthcare accessibility, and strengthening surveillance systems. Coupled with community engagement, these measures promise sustained success against viral hepatitis, reinforcing the observed trend in mortality reduction

Millet consumption in type 2 diabetics in urban slums of India: a pilot study

Diabetes is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, affecting people regardless of their country, age group, or sex. Considering the growing prevalence of diabetes among low socioeconomic groups in developing countries like India, the present study aims to determine the prevalence of millet consumption in urban slums in Pune, India. A pilot cross-sectional study was conducted at a private medical college’s field practice area in Pune from January to March 2024. The study focused on individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. A pre-designed, pretested semi-structured paperless questionnaire in the Kobo tool app was used to collect information on socio-demographic information, consumption of millet, and diabetes-related information. A total of 30 type 2 diabetics were interviewed as a pilot study. Of these, 53.57% were females, and 46.43% were males. The prevalence of millet consumption was 93% in type 2 diabetics. Sorghum was the most consumed millet amongst all other millet. Age >50 years, education >10th pass, and non-alcoholics were significantly associated with satisfactory consumption of millet. Diversifying diets with nutritious foods like millet can help reduce health-related burdens, including type 2 diabetes. This is important for policy-making and prioritizing diabetes self-care interventions

Epidemiological analysis of the incidence of endometrial hyperplasia in a large city of Kazakhstan

Endometrial hyperplasia (EH) is an abnormality of uterus, characterized by excessive proliferation of endometrium, and in case of lack of timely diagnostics and treatment, it may rapidly progress to endometrial cancer (EC). According to the World Cancer Research Fund, EC ranks 6th among all female malignancies in the world. EC takes the 3rd place in the Republic of Kazakhstan according to the state statistics. However, there is no determining statistical data on dynamics of EH incidence in our region, which will show the extent of exposure of the population to this disease. Therefore, this research provides assessment and analysis of all registered cases of EH from the Republican Center for Electronic Healthcare for the period from 2012 to 2022 for presentation of accurate and correct information on the trends of EH incidence and its histologic types, taking into account age differences of the female population of our city. The study has showed the increase of indicators of incidence of EH, especially, non-atypical endometrial hyperplasia (NAEH) and atypical endometrial hyperplasia (AEH). It was found that the peak incidence of EH occurred in the age group of 65-69 years, where the main increase was due to an increase in number of cases of NAEH. The age group of 45-49 years is at the peak of the incidence of AEH. The conducted research has identified the trends of EH incidence, reflecting population changes in the EH risk factors, and that requires their comprehensive study for development of strategies of treatment and prevention measures

Prevalence and health literacy on high blood pressure among late adulthood individuals in Northeast Thailand: a cross sectional study

High blood pressure (HBP) is a leading risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and mortality. This study aimed to identify health literacy and other characteristics associated with HBP among late adults in Thailand. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 1,345 adults aged 35-59 years from Health Centers 7, 8, 9, and 10 in Northeast Thailand. Descriptive statistics and a generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) were used to determine the adjusted odds ratio (Adj. OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results showed a prevalence of HBP at 24.76% (95% CI: 22.52-27.13). Multivariable analysis revealed a significant association between HBP and health literacy in finding health information (Adj. OR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.28-1.96, p-value<0.001), as well as judging health information (Adj. OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.04-1.73, p-value=0.024). Additionally, history of smoking (Adj. OR=2.04, 95% CI: 1.29-3.24, p-value = 0.002), comorbidity (Adj. OR = 2.20, 95% CI: 1.76-2.74, p-value <0.001), physical activity (Adj. OR = 1.67, 95% CI: 1.28-2.16, p-value <0.001), and body mass index (Adj. OR = 2.21, 95% CI: 1.14-4.26, p-value=0.018) were found to be associated with HBP. Poor health literacy increases the risk of HBP. Relevant authorities must evaluate the group context and develop a suitable health literacy model

The economic impact of COVID-19 pandemic on physicians/health care work force in Egypt

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted healthcare workers physically, psychologically, and economically. The industry has struggled financially with the cancellation of elective procedures and hesitancy from patients to seek medical help. Thus, this study aimed to assess the economic and work burden of COVID-19 on the health workforce in Egypt. Methods a cross-sectional survey was conducted in Egypt from October 2020 to May 2021. A purposive sample of 763 healthcare workers (HCWs) from Egyptian governorates was included. HCWs were asked to fill out a self-administered questionnaire on Google Forms and printed copies. The questionnaire link was shared on social media forums. Results a total of 763 HCWs responded. Females were 88.2% and more than half were 33 or less years old. Physicians constituted 42.5%, while paramedics 57.5%. The governmental sector represented 61.2%, private sector 14.7% and those who combined both 24.1%. Regarding specialties affected, pediatricians, dermatologists, and nephrologists reported a considerable drop in their regular private work rate, while radiologists were not affected regarding workload or income by the closure. The HCWs acknowledge that COVID-19 has put extreme stress on the healthcare workforce physically, mentally, and financially in a pre-existing challenging environment. The results can help evidence-based decisions by policymakers in Egypt

Emotional intelligence trends in nursing education: review the literature

The high demand for nursing work to encounter death or disease, dealing with a high volume of work in a short amount of time, working under intense pressure, and ignoring established authority all contribute to the high levels of stress on nurses. The undisputable significance of emotional intelligence in the sphere of nursing education has led in a rapid increase in the number of emotional intelligence courses and training program that offer a broad range of educational different outcomes to the students. There is a lack of studies regarding to improve teaching and learning in Libyan nursing educational institutions. Quite a few emotional intelligence (EI) assessment studies were found that simply contain criteria and dimensions of EI in the literature study. The aim of this study is to review the emotional intelligence studies in nursing education. This evaluation encompasses a range of publications released throughout the time frame of 2019 to 2023. The findings showed that there is a need for including emotional intelligence program in curriculum of nursing education. In addition, the findings indicated that EI intervention program could boost student academic achievements and alleviate work stress to nurse profession. The discussion chiefly emphasizes on the contemporary issues that are being confronted by the field, as well as the openings for research that exist in the area

Spatial analysis and forecasting map of diarrhea incidents in Banjar District

Diarrhea is a common disease in the community and can be fatal if treatment is delayed. Banjar District has recorded the highest prevalence of diarrhea in South Kalimantan for the past few years, making it one of the causes of death in toddlers. This study aims to conduct spatial analysis using Moran's I index and local indicators of spatial association (LISA). Diarrhea case predictions are made using the multiplicative decomposition time series method. The data used in this study are diarrhea case data from 20 sub-districts in Banjar District during the period 2016-2022. Although no global autocorrelation was found in Banjar District, there were two sub-districts that showed local autocorrelation. The prediction results show a decreasing trend in diarrhea cases in most sub-districts. Health interventions can be focused on areas with high risk, such as hotspot areas and areas predicted not to experience a decrease in diarrhea cases