The impact of COVID-19 on burnout among healthcare workers - literature review

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic broke out in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. Coronavirus disease is commonly transmitted through contact transmission and direct contact. Considering the transmission mechanism of the virus, healthcare workers are at high risk of becoming infected. SARS-CoV-2 has became a major stressor for medical staff, that can lead to burnout.The aim of the study: Paying attention to the correlation between COVID-19 pandemic and burnout among healthcare workers.Material and method: The research was done by the usage of the PubMed and Google Scholar articles about the topic of: burnout; healthcare workers, COVID-19 pandemic, mental health, stress.Description of the state of knowledge: According to various studies, the COVID-19 pandemic may have negative impact on the mental health of healthcare workers. Worsening systemic stressors may lead to professional burnout. Latest research has identified associations between burnout and inadequate psychological support, direct contact with infected patients, and working in the nursing profession.Summary: The results from all studies proved that the COVID-19 pandemic has tremendous impact on professional burnout among medical staff. It is essential to pay attention to the psychological wellbeing of healthcare workers

Delays in cancer diagnosis, with a focus on oral cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic - literature review

Introduction: Since the 2019 Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) was classified as a pandemic infection on March 11, 2020, it has spread rapidly around the world. The total number of confirmed infections was 217,119,281 and the total deaths were 4,510,202 worldwide, as of August 31, 2021. The changes in life caused by these new threats also impacted patient care. Medics around the world have had to adapt to this new reality. There is a lot of research into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the diagnosis and treatment of other diseases, including cancer. The aim of the study: Paying attention to the causes of delays in the diagnosis of cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic, with particular emphasis on oral cancer.Material and method: The research was done using the PubMed and Google Scholar articles about the topics of: covid-19 pandemic; oral cancer; healthcare; cancer diagnosisDescription of the state of knowledge: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on the entire health system around the world. According to various studies, there were fewer cancer diagnoses between 2020 and 2021. Studies have identified the causes of these delays, such as: overwork and fatigue of health care workers, limited access to doctors due to quarantine, patients' fear of being infected in a health care facility, and the lack of follow-up visits, including dental visits.Summary:Undoubtedly, the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has put the people with chronic illnesses and those who are immunocompromised at the most risk. Solutions such as telemedicine during lockdown may be helpful in caring for cancer patients, but cannot replace a comprehensive examination by a doctor, especially in the case of oral cancer. As a result of the diagnostic delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, a significant increase in the number of cancer deaths worldwide is expected

Xerostomia among elderly patients – systematic review

Introduction and purpose: Xerostomia is a salivary secretion malfunction that affects from 1 to 29% of the population. It is a common problem among elderly patients, however undeniably it still remains an underdiagnosed issue. Searching among available literature in the PubMed database with the following phrases: xerostomia; elderly, the aim of this article was to provide a broad review on the underdiagnosed problem which is xerostomia among elderly patients. Description: A group at risk of developing xerostomia are people over 65 years old and women in the perimenopausal period. Although dry mouth varies in etiology, geriatric patients mostly develop xerostomia as a result of head and neck radiotherapy, Sjögren syndrome or medication treatment.  Untreated symptoms can lead to severe issues which heavily impact not only oral health of the patient, but also their everyday life quality, since xerostomia may lead into difficulty of speaking, swallowing and tasting. The plan of treatment is influenced by the etiology of the case, however it is aimed to stimulate salivary flow and eradicate the use of unnecessary medication which may cause dry mouth. Prevention of dry mouth is based on maintenance of good oral hygiene. Conclusions: Diagnosing the problem early can prevent patients from suffering the consequences of chronic xerostomia, therefore awareness should be brought to this issue. Dentist could also highly improve the quality of xerostomic patient’s life, if the chosen treatment significantly improved patient’s symptoms.Introduction and purpose: Xerostomia is a salivary secretion malfunction that affects from 1 to 29% of the population. It is a common problem among elderly patients, however undeniably it still remains an underdiagnosed issue. Searching among available literature in the PubMed database with the following phrases: xerostomia; elderly, the aim of this article was to provide a broad review on the underdiagnosed problem which is xerostomia among elderly patients. Description: A group at risk of developing xerostomia are people over 65 years old and women in the perimenopausal period. Although dry mouth varies in etiology, geriatric patients mostly develop xerostomia as a result of head and neck radiotherapy, Sjögren syndrome or medication treatment.  Untreated symptoms can lead to severe issues which heavily impact not only oral health of the patient, but also their everyday life quality, since xerostomia may lead into difficulty of speaking, swallowing and tasting. The plan of treatment is influenced by the etiology of the case, however it is aimed to stimulate salivary flow and eradicate the use of unnecessary medication which may cause dry mouth. Prevention of dry mouth is based on maintenance of good oral hygiene. Conclusions: Diagnosing the problem early can prevent patients from suffering the consequences of chronic xerostomia, therefore awareness should be brought to this issue. Dentist could also highly improve the quality of xerostomic patient’s life, if the chosen treatment significantly improved patient’s symptoms.&nbsp

Plant Based Diets and the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Introduction: The prevalence of diabetes in the world continues to increase. Most cases of type 2 diabetes are caused by modifiable risk factors, including unhealthy diets based on meat and processed products, low physical activity, overweight and obesity. Research suggests that plant-based diets have shown significant weight reduction benefits compared to non-plant-based diets and improve glycemic control to a greater extent than conventional diabetic diets. The aim of the study: assessment of the frequency of developing diabetes t.2 in people eating various types of vegetarian diets compared to people whose diet contains animal products. Material and methods: Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. The search of articles in the PubMed and Google Scholar database was carried out using the following keywords: plant based diet, vegetarian diet, type 2 diabetes. Description of the state of knowledge: Food products such as red meat, especially processed meat, are one of the most important risk factors for metabolic disorders, including diabetes. A healthy and properly balanced plant-based diet can positively affect the carbohydrate metabolism. Due to the high fiber content, this diet has a low energy density. It also contains flavonoids and a high amount of antioxidants beneficial to human health. Summary: Properly balanced vegetarian diets lower the risk of developing metabolic syndrome and diabetes. Plant-based diets range from vegan, lacto-ovo-vegetarian, peso-vegetarian, and semi-vegetarian diets. Different types of diets show differences in therapeutic effects. The most important factor connecting these different diets is the focusing on whole grains, vegetables and fruits, nuts, legumes, and limiting consumption of saturated and trans fats

Contraception - methods, effectiveness and safety

Introduction The article provides an overview of the available methods of contraception, effectiveness, safety, advantages and disadvantages of using a given contraceptive. The use of contraception is becoming more and more popular in society. There are many methods of contraception. The choice depends mainly on the patient's preferences, but diseases and a well-collected history are also important.   The aim of the study Review the latest literature on methods of contraception   Material and methods The research was conducted using Articles by PubMed and Google Scholar on methods of contraception Description of the state of knowledge:  There are many methods of contraception, Hormonal methods include oral contraceptive pills, contraceptive patches, implants, hormone injections. Barrier products such as copper / levonogestrel IUDs prevent pregnancy by creating a mechanical barrier to prevent conception.  [1,2] The most common method - the use of condoms prevents sperm from entering the uterus. All products and methods have benefits and potential complications, therefore the method should be selected individually for each patient. [6,7] Summary: There are many types of contraception . Some of them are almost 100% effective in preventing pregnancy.  [1,3,4,5,] It should be remembered that each method of contraception should be selected individually, depending on the patient's needs. [8,9] &nbsp

Stevens–Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, A Review of Pathogenesis, Clinical Features, Diagnosis and Treatment

Stevens Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are rare, acute conditions, potentially life-threatening, immune-mediated and often unpredictable. Characteristic for SJS and TEN is acute necrosis of the epidermis and mucous membranes, caused by the extensive death of keratinocytes. These syndromes are considered hypersensitivity reactions. They are most often caused by drugs. There have also been reports of SJS / TEN being caused by infection, SJS/TEN disease is very rare and due to its rarity there is no specific pharmaceutical algorythm. Supportive care and treatment of symptoms are very important. The most crucial part of non-pharmacologic treatment of SJS/TEN is the detection and cessation of the pharmaceutical that caused the disease. The aim of this literature review was to summarize current knowledge about the pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnosis and treatment of Stevens- Johnson Syndrom and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis. Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. The search of articles in the PubMed and Google Scholar database was carried out using the following keywords: Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, cutaneous adverse drug reaction

Do sunscreens have more positive or negative effects? Study review

Introduction: UV radiation is related to skin cancers, skin photoaging and sunburn. It can be harmful for human skin, so it is crucial to have a protection against sun rays. Substances protecting people from sun are sunscreens, that block and absorb UV radiation. The first sunscreen was discovered in 1928 and, since then, there have been many concerns about its safety, efectiveness and impant on the environment. Types of accessible sunscreens are physical sunscreens, chemical sunscreens and a combination. This study review is performed to assess possible risks of using sunscreens and evaluate if there are more positive or negative effects of their action. The aim of the study:  To evaluate positive and negative effects of sunscreens action. Materials and methods: We searched Pubmed and ResearchGate in order to find relevant studies about sunscreens and their impact on human skin, human health and environment. Results: There seem to be some adverse effects of sunblockers for the environment, such as destroying coral reefs, bioaccumulating in fish tissue and water sources. In some studies there was mentioned a negative impact of sunscreens on hormonal systems and pregnancy, as well as on human skin. On the other hand, many studies display that sunblockers inhibit the carcinogenic effect of sun rays, preventing people from developing skin cancers. Conclusions: Althought sunscreens can have some negative effects, studies showed that there are more positive effects of their action. They can be harmful for the environment, but at the same time they can be a protection. Sunscreens protect skin from developing skin cancer and also delay skin aging. However, the protection against sun is complex

Tourette syndrom - a review of current literature

Introduction Tourette syndrome is a disorder characterized by tics. It usually begins in childhood and often remains in adulthood. Tiki is best described as body movements performed automatically excluding the patient's will. It affects boys more often than girls and is associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The etiology of Tourette syndrome has not yet been fully clarified. The aim of the study Review the latest literature on Tourette syndrome. Material and methods The research was conducted using Articles by PubMed and Google Scholar on Tourette syndrome. Description of the state of knowledge Tourette syndrome is a movement disorder most commonly found in schoolchildren. The occurrence peaks in the pre-puberty period, and half of the cases disappear in early adulthood and, while the severity of occurrence is higher than commonly assumed.  It is often associated with mentally concomitant diseases, mainly attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Given the diverse presentation, Tourette's syndrome can mimic many hyperkinetic disorders, making it difficult or delaying correct diagnosis.  Treatment can be behavioral, pharmacological or surgical and is dependent on the symptoms causing the greatest dysfunction. Summary       Tourette syndrome can cause severe stress and worsen health-related quality of life. Often it is an embarrassing condition for patients. Treatment is multimodal, however, an important issue of treatment among patients is to undertake psychotherapy, so as not to perpetuate the tic reflex, as well as to cope with functioning in society

The influence of dioxines on endometriosis development – study review

Introduction: Dioxins and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls are considered to be among the most toxic to humans due to their persistence, resistance to degradation and chemical properties. Endometriosis is characterized by the presence of endometrial cells outside the uterine cavity showing secretory activity. It is one of the most common causes of pelvic pain and decreased fertility; is formed as a result of the action of hormonal and immune mechanisms. The exact etiology is unknown and multifactorial; risk factors for endometriosis include both family conditions and various environmental factors, including exposure to chemicals. The aim of the study:  Evaluation of the impact of dioxins on endometriosis development. Materials and methods: A research was performed using Pubmed, Google Scholar and ResearchGate; we made review and meta-analysis of the most relevant studies. Results: Dioxins can contribute to cancer development, which is well documented, as well as several conditions, such as sexual dysfunctions, oxidative stress and inflammation. Doxins have similar structure to steroid hormones, so their main target are male and female gonads, thyroid gland and other organs in which steroid hormones are produced. Conclusions: Endometriosis is a multifactorial disease, whereas dioxins are strong poisons that have an adverse effect on live organisms. Many epidemiological studies suggest that dioxins may significantly contribute to the development of endometriosis

Non-pharmacological Therapy in Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a syndrome manifested by chronic, generalized muscle and joint pain and symptoms such as sleep problems, mental disorders, mainly depression, which significantly reduces the patients' quality of life.The etiology, pathogenesis, and pathomechanism of symptoms in FM are still not fully understood, which makes the therapeutic options unsatisfactory. Treatment is mainly based on relieving the symptoms of the disease and is based on both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments. It seems that the best results are achieved by a combination of cooperation between a rheumatologist, psychiatrist, psychologist and phosiotherapist. The aim of the study is to present the current state of knowledge about the possibilities of non-pharmacological treatment in people with fibromyalgia Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. The search of articles in the PubMed and Google Scholar database was carried out using the following keywords: fibromyalgia, chronic pain, non-pharmacological therapy in fibromyalgi