The Effect of Indian Classical Music on Migraine Episodes in Young Females of Age Group 18 to 23 Years

Music has been known for its soothing effects since ancient times. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of Indian classical music during migraine episodes in young (18 to 23 years) female patients. A standard music playlist was prepared and distributed to the test group of 25 patients. They listened to the music during every migraine attack occurring for a period of 4 months. Questionnaires containing pain scales were administered at 0 month, 2 month and 4 month. The statistical analysis of the responses provided by the patients of the 2 groups (A and B) showed significant differences. The pain intensity during an attack, the duration of an attack and frequency of attacks showed significant decline while alertness after an attack showed considerable improvement in the music group (Group A) subjects. However, subjects of Group B, our non music group, showed no improvement in their migraine symptoms with respect to pain intensity, duration, alertness and frequency of attacks. Our results demonstrate the potential role of Indian classic music as an adjuvant therapy for management of migraine episodes. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT

Social accountability as a strategy to promote sexual and reproductive health entitlements for stigmatized issues and populations

Abstract Social accountability is often put forward as a strategy to promote health rights, but we lack a programmatic evidence base on if, when, and how social accountability strategies can be used to promote access to quality Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) care for stigmatized populations and/or stigmatized issues. In this Commentary, we discuss the potential advantages and disadvantages of social accountability strategies in promoting the availability of a full range of SRH services for excluded and historically oppressed populations. We accomplish this by describing four programs that sought to promote access to quality SRH care for stigmatized populations and/or stigmatized services. Program implementers faced similar challenges, including stigma and harmful gender norms among providers and communities, and lack of clear guidance, authority, and knowledge of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) entitlements at local level. To overcome these challenges, the programs employed several strategies, including linking their strategies to legal accountability, budgetary expenditures, or other institutionalized processes; taking steps to ensure inclusion, including through consultation with excluded or stigmatized groups throughout the program design and implementation process; specific outreach and support to integrating marginalized groups into program activities; and the creation of separate spaces to ensure confidentiality and safety. The program experiences described here suggest some general principles for ensuring that social accountability efforts are inclusive both in terms of populations and issues addressed. Further empirical research can test and further flesh out these principles, and deepen our understanding of context