Journal of Family Medicine and Preventive Medicine
Journal of Family Medicine and Preventive Medicine Welcome to the Journal of Family Medicine and Preventive Medicine, which is an open access peer reviewed journal, a premier platform dedicated to advancing the field of family medicine and promoting preventive health practices. Our mission is to disseminate high-quality research, innovative clinical practices, and insightful reviews that empower healthcare professionals to enhance patient care and community health. Articles can be submitted through online from https://srcpublishers.com/family-medicine-and-preventive-m/user/register or can send through an e-mail with attachment for familymedicine@onlinescientificresearch.info or Preventivemedicine@onlinescientificresearch.net 1.03* Impact Factor 84.5% Citations 90% Acceptance
Conservative Scoliosis Treatment: Integration of Biomechanics and Psychology
The patient is a 5-year-old, Risser 0 female diagnosed with thoracic scoliosis with a 46-degree magnitude, T8 apex, and psychiatric challenges. The scoliosis curve has been progressive and was approaching surgical magnitude, while statistically likely to continue to progress and require a surgical correction. She was treated by a multidisciplinary team that leveraged behavioral health principles to accomplish correction that outpaced expectations
Copyright (c) 2026 Journal of Family Medicine and Preventive Medicine
Absentee Fathers and Female Child Development in Jamaica: Cognitive Psychosocial and Sexual Behavioural Outcomes
Absentee fatherhood in Jamaica has emerged as a salient psychosocial factor influencing female children’s cognitive, emotional, and social development. While extensive research has examined paternal absence among male offspring, fewer studies have rigorously explored its impact on girls, particularly regarding executive functioning, emotional regulation, and sexual risk behaviours. This study integrates behavioural, developmental, and sociocultural perspectives to examine how father absence correlates with cognitive delays, psychosocial maladjustment, and high-risk sexual behaviour among female children in Jamaica. The research utilises a conceptual-analytical design supplemented by documentary and literature analysis, drawing on regional family studies, longitudinal research, and psychosocial theory. The findings indicate that paternal absence is associated with diminished executive functioning, elevated emotional distress, and increased vulnerability to early sexual debut and risky sexual behaviour, while outcomes are moderated by maternal support, extended kin networks, and community mentorship. Policy recommendations include early childhood screening, female-focused mentorship programmes, parenting support interventions, and public education campaigns promoting responsible fatherhood. The current study contributes to the Caribbean discourse on gendered developmental risk, offering culturally grounded strategies for mitigating the psychosocial consequences of father absence.
The Periodontal-Cardiovascular Axis: Molecular Mechanisms, Clinical Evidence, and Therapeutic Perspectives
Periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory disease of the supporting tooth structures, affects nearly 10-12% of the global population and represents a significant public health concern. Beyond localized oral pathology, periodontitis is strongly associated with cardiovascular diseases-including atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, stroke, and heart failure-through converging mechanisms of chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, microbial translocation, and epigenetic modifications. Key molecular mediators include NLRP3 inflammasome activation, oxidative stress, asymmetric dimethylarginine-driven endothelial dysfunction, and vascular smooth muscle cell phenotypic modulation. Clinical studies demonstrate that individuals with periodontitis exhibit elevated systemic inflammatory biomarkers, impaired endothelial function, and increased risk of cardiovascular events. Importantly, periodontal therapy-ranging from behavioral interventions to subgingival instrumentation-reduces systemic inflammation and cardiovascular risk, particularly in high-risk populations such as patients with metabolic disorders or on hemodialysis. This mini-review synthesizes current evidence connecting periodontitis and cardiovascular disease, integrates molecular and clinical insights, and highlights the potential for interdisciplinary preventive and therapeutic strategies
Determinants of Perceptions and Attitudes Towards Labor Pain Management among Parturient Attending Antenatal Care Clinic at Federal Teaching Hospital, Birnin Kebbi
Objectives: This study aimed to identify the determinants of perception and attitude towards pain management options during labour among parturient attending the antenatal care clinic at Federal Teaching Hospital, Birnin Kebbi. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 178 pregnant women selected via systematic sampling. Data was collected using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed using SPSS version 27, and a p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The age of respondents ranged from 17 to 45, with a mean age of 28 ± 5 SD. More than half of the respondents have a positive perception of labour pain management options (104; 58.4%). The majority of respondents (112; 62.9%) have a positive attitude towards pain management options. The determinants of a positive perception of labour pain management options were respondents’ educational status (AOR: 9.289, 95% CI: 1.196 – 45.037), partners’ educational status (AOR: 0.238, 95% CI: 0.079 – 0.720 and parity (AOR: 4.282, 95% CI: 1.410 – 13.007). The determinants of a positive attitude towards labour pain management options were educational status of respondents (AOR: 6.740, 95% CI: 1.528–29.720), partners’ educational status (AOR: 0.196, 95% CI: 0.060 – 0.643) and parity (AOR: 8.490, 95% CI: 2.139 – 33.753). Conclusion: Government and policymakers should establish programmes to ensure mass education for the populace, as education plays a key role in the uptake of health interventions.
Keeping People in Rhythm Electronically – An Overview of Cardiac Rhythm Management Devices
Core Concept: Use of outside energy to stimulate the heart – for pacing and defibrillation. The history of cardiac rhythm devices reflects a remarkable evolution in cardiovascular medicine, driven by technological innovation and a deepening understanding of electrophysiology. The journey began in the 1950s with the invention of the first implantable pacemaker, a groundbreaking solution for bradyarrhythmias. Over the decades, Cardiac Rhythm Management (CRM) devices have expanded to include Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators (ICDs), Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) devices, and leadless pacemakers. These advancements have been fueled by improvements in battery life, miniaturization, telemetry, and device programming. Modern devices not only correct life-threatening arrhythmias but also provide real-time diagnostics and remote monitoring capabilities. This overview traces the historical milestones and technological advancements that have shaped cardiac rhythm devices, highlighting their growing role in improving patient outcomes and quality of life in those with heart rhythm disorders.
Autism & Medical Health – How Different Individuals are Impacted (My Story)
Statement of the Problem: Autistic women in Health care and how they cope with the noise of other patients, lights/sensory/overload/people in ED depts or wards of hospitals. I’ll be presenting on how I’ve had to cope in the past with being in hospital and being in an ED department where I was during COVID 19. I’ll also be explaining how I’ve had a towel put over my eyes to shade me from all of the bright lights as well as coping with all of the medical staff attending to me at the time, and the difficulties that I faced during those times. The strategies I’ll be discussing are that I’ve had to take myself to learning to cope with this environment over my lifetime, as well as speaking up and tell others that I’m autistic as well as being unable to see without my glasses going into surgery to transfer from bed to operating table. I’ll also be speaking about how I was not able to discern feelings of being “sick” as I’ve had to learn about them as well as now I’ve got the capacity of going to the doctors myself should I feel unwell and uncomfortable within myself so that I am able to take care of myself.
Early Identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder among Children in Hargeisa, Somaliland
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) isa neurodevelopmental condition marked by difficulties in social communication, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests. Early identification of autism is vital, as research consistently shows that early intervention. Which is to manifests in early childhood, with subtle signs often observable between 12 to 18 months of age. These signs can include delayed speech development, lack of eye contac limited social engagement, and repetitive behaviors. Research suggests that early Intervention-before the age of 3-can positively impact cognitive, language, and adaptive skills, providing a foundation of better living and integration into school and society. The growing recognition of autism has led to widespread efforts in screening and public awareness campaigns
Development of Respirator Fit Test Panel Representing the Population of Malaysia
Effective respiratory protection depends critically on the proper fit of respirators to users’ facial features. Existing fit test panels, such as those developed in the United States, China, and Taiwan, do not accurately represent the craniofacial dimensions of the Malaysian population, thus potentially compromising the protective efficacy of respirators used locally. This study aimed to (1) Evaluate the reliability and accuracy of 2D photogrammetry compared to direct anthropometric measurement; (2) Develop a national database of head and facial morphological dimensions; and (3) Construct population-specific facial panels for Malaysia using both bivariate and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) approaches. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using multistage random sampling based on the National Census 2020, encompassing 3,324 participants across Malaysia. Measurements included ten key craniofacial dimensions. Findings showed that 2D photogrammetry had poor reliability for certain parameters, notably bigonial, bizygomatic, and head breadths, indicating limitations for clinical or occupational applications. The study revealed significant craniofacial variation by sex, ethnicity, and birthplace. Compared to U.S. and Chinese populations, Malaysians exhibited notably wider interpupillary and nasal breadths but smaller bigonial and frontal widths. The resulting Malaysian bivariate and PCA facial panels demonstrated superior coverage—95.0% and 95.6%, respectively—compared to foreign panels. This is the first nationally representative study on Malaysian facial anthropometry and has important implications for local respirator manufacturing, occupational safety, and public health preparedness, particularly in airborne infectious disease control.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Principal Component Analysis
Advancing Preventive Pharmacology: Integrating Precision Medicine for Public Health Impact
In an era of rapidly evolving healthcare challenges, the integration of preventive pharmacology and precision medicine has emerged as a transformative approach to enhancing public health outcomes globally and in India. This keynote presentation explores how personalized medicine, pharmacogenomics, and targeted therapeutics can drive disease prevention and early intervention across diverse populations. The session highlights innovations such as AI-driven diagnostics, drug discovery, and real-world data analytics, reshaping preventive healthcare strategies worldwide. With India’s rising burden of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), the role of genetic profiling and cost-effective precision medicine solutions is becoming increasingly significant. The presentation will discuss India’s progress in pharmacogenomics research, government healthcare policies (e.g., Ayushman Bharat), and successful public health initiatives like polio eradication and tuberculosis control programs. Furthermore, the talk will address challenges such as ethical considerations, accessibility, and policy frameworks, emphasizing the need for global and local collaborations. By bridging the gap between pharmacology and public health, this presentation aims to provide insights into developing sustainable, patient-centric, and technology-driven healthcare models, with India positioned as a leader in affordable precision medicine.
India’s Healthcare Strategy and AI in Healthcare
Preventive and Interceptive Orthodontics
The prevalence of malocclusions represents about 98% of the general population; anyone can have some degree of malocclusion, which is considered a public health problem. On the other hand, the prevalence of malocclusions during mixed dentition and the need for orthodontic treatment is about 47% of the population. Preventive and interceptive orthodontics aim to detect and treat developing orthodontic problems early, ensuring optimal oral health and proper tooth and jaw alignment that supports both aesthetics and function. Preventive orthodontics involves measures taken to maintain the normal development of the oral cavity, supporting a natural and healthy transition to permanent dentition. The actions include regular dental checkups, oral hygiene education, dietary counselling, and fluoride applications to prevent tooth decay and maintain oral health. Interceptive orthodontics is related to local factors, including supernumerary teeth, ectopic canines, anterior crossbites, posterior crossbites, oral habits, and orthopaedic treatment of Class II Division 1, Division 2 and Class III malocclusions, among others.
Scoliosis Care: The Meeting of Anatomy and Psychology
At the time of the intake, the patient was a 14-year-old Risser 1 female at the 91st percentile for height, presenting with a 39degree thoracic curve spanning T5-T12 with an apex at T5 and 29degree lumbar curve spanning T12 to L4 with an apex of L2, complicated by pelvic obliquity. She has been previously diagnosed with ASD, ADHD- predominantly inattentive subtype, MDD, and GAD and has experienced involuntary psychiatric hospitalization, partial hospitalization programs, and intensive outpatient programs. Prior to her engagement with Orthotics, the patient had been very actively participating with pediatrics, orthopedics, physical therapy, psychiatry, and outpatient psychotherapy in addition to specialized care/advocacy services geared toward the neurodivergent population. The patient has been described as “slow to warm up to providers,” with her treatment compliance questioned. Scoliosis bracing has been resisted by the pt until the curvature has progressed to approaching the surgical magnitude.
The Age of Aging: are we in the “Decade of Healthspan”?
We are seemingly a schism-separated and decades away from a time when aging was to be feared, hidden, or resented. Across cultures and ethnicities, the world has seemingly and simultaneously embraced the value of aging and deepened its interest in the true process of aging. While there is no doubt that ageism continues in our nuclear families, workplaces, in pop culture in athletics and politics alike, we have, as the famous line goes, “come a long way, baby”.
Sensory Integration Therapy in Learning Disabled School Going Children of Age Group 8-11 Years
Introduction: Learning Disorders are diagnosed when the individual’s achievement on individually administered, standardised tests in reading, mathematics, or written expression is substantially below that expected for age, schooling, and level of intelligence. Learning Disorders (LD) are complex diseases that affect about 2-10% of the school-age population. Various assessment tools are used to identify learning disability like learning disability evaluation scale (LDES), Children nonverbal learning disabilities scale, learning disability diagnostic inventory (LDDI). Methodology: A total of 480 forms were distributed in the schools of Dehradun, out of which 162 forms were collected, and based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, 8 subjects were identified to have learning disability. LDDI scale was used to assess learning disability, consisting of six sections (listening, speaking, reading, writing, mathematics and reasoning). Results: Prevalence was calculated using the point prevalence formula, and the prevalence of learning disability in Dehradun was 4.9%. Data was analyzed using SPSS software 15.0. Paired T test was used and the result showed a significant difference between the total score pre and post reading. Conclusion: The study concluded that sensory integration positively impacted learning disability, helping to improve the behaviour of learning disabled subjects.
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Leveraging Biotechnology to Investigate Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 and Merozoite Surface Protein 2 Gene Polymorphismsin Relation to Malaria Status in an Endemic Setting in the Buea Health District
Malaria remains a life-threatening mosquito-borne disease and a major global health concern, particularly in endemic regions such as sub-Saharan Africa. In these settings, individuals often harbor multiple genetically distinct strains of Plasmodium falciparum, a phenomenon known as multiplicity of infection (MOI). Genetic polymorphisms in both the parasite and host are believed to modulate malaria Status. In the parasite, polymorphic alleles of the Merozoite surface protein 2 (MSP2) gene, particularly the FC27 and 3D7 allelic families, have been associated with disease Status across varying transmission settings. Similarly, in the human host, a single nucleotide polymorphism in the Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein 1 (MCP-1) gene at position -2518 (A>G) has been implicated in susceptibility and inflammatory responses during Plasmodium infections, though existing evidence remains inconclusive. This study investigated the association between MCP-1 gene polymorphisms and malaria Status in individuals from Buea Municipality, a malariaendemic region in southwestern Cameroon. A cross-sectional study design was employed, enrolling 350 individuals, of whom 273 consented to participate (56% female, 44% male; age range: 1–90 years). Participants were classified into symptomatic (46%) and asymptomatic (54%) groups based on clinical and laboratory criteria. Malaria infection was confirmed by RDT (31.5%), microscopy (42.5%), and PCR (34.8%), with PCRpositive cases comprising 61% symptomatic and 39% asymptomatic individuals. Analysis of MCP-1 polymorphisms revealed that the wild-type AA genotype was more frequent in symptomatic individuals (84.4%), whereas the AG and GG genotypes were more prevalent among asymptomatic participants. G allele frequency was higher in the asymptomatic group (17.4%) than in symptomatic individuals (9.4%). Genotype distributions were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium for both groups, and no significant association was found between MCP-1 genotypes (p = 0.21) or alleles (p = 0.15) and malaria Status. Notably, MSP2 genotyping was not completed, highlighting challenges in assessing parasite polymorphisms in field settings. These findings suggest a possible modulatory role of MCP-1 polymorphisms in influencing malaria outcomes, potentially through altered monocyte recruitment and inflammatory responses. However, further studies incorporating both host and parasite genetic markers are needed to clarify these associations in malaria-endemic populations.
Fc Gamma Receptor IIA and Merozoite Surface Protein 1 Gene Variants in Relation to Malaria Status in the Buea Health District
Background: Malaria remains a major public health burden in sub-Saharan Africa, with Cameroon experiencing high endemicity and transmission intensity. While Plasmodium falciparum is the predominant species responsible for severe disease, host and parasite genetic factors are increasingly recognized as important determinants of malaria susceptibility and clinical outcomes. This study investigated the association between P. falciparum Merozoite Surface Protein 1 (MSP1) and human Fc gamma receptor IIA (FCγRIIA) gene polymorphisms with malaria status in the Buea Health District, Cameroon. Methods: A total of 273 participants were enrolled and assessed for demographic and clinical characteristics. Nested PCR targeting P. falciparum confirmed species-specific infections. Genotyping of MSP1 block 2 (K1, MAD20, RO33) was conducted via allele-specific PCR, while FCγRIIA polymorphisms were analyzed using restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and logistic regression, were used to assess associations between genetic markers, parasitaemia, and malaria status. Results: Of the samples screened, 95 (97%) were confirmed as P. falciparum infections. The K1 allele was the most prevalent MSP1 genotype, followed by MAD20 and RO33, with several mixed infections, reflecting high transmission intensity. No significant association was found between MSP1 genotypes and malaria status, though high parasitaemia was linked to increased odds of symptomatic malaria (OR = 4.03; 95% CI: 0.97–16.83; p = 0.054). FCγRIIA analysis revealed that individuals with homozygous or heterozygous genotypes had higher odds of symptomatic malaria compared to the wild type, although results were not statistically significant. Trends also indicated increasing FCγRIIA expression with age and parasitaemia, suggesting possible immune modulation. Conclusion: While no statistically significant associations were identified, trends observed in FCγRIIA and MSP1 polymorphisms suggest potential roles in influencing malaria status. The high prevalence of mixed-genotype infections indicates considerable genetic diversity of P. falciparum in Buea. These findings underscore the need for larger, longitudinal studies to validate genetic markers of disease status and inform targeted malaria interventions in Cameroon.
Harnessing Molecular Biotechnology to Optimize Malaria Diagnosisin Resource-Limited Settings
Background: Malaria remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality, particularly among children under five in endemic areas. It is caused by different species of the Plasmodium genus. The World Health Organization recommends thick blood smear microscopy as the standard diagnostic tool, but its sensitivity is limited, especially in cases of low parasitaemia, non-falciparum infections, and when performed by unskilled personnel. Misdiagnosis is common in endemic areas, complicating disease management. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential to prevent progression, reduce deaths, and limit transmission. This study aimed to compare the diagnostic accuracy of microscopy, rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), ELISA, and PCR, using PCR as the reference standard. Methods: A total of 274 participants were recruited from three health centers. Samples were tested using microscopy, RDT, ELISA, and PCR. Diagnostic performance metrics—including sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, likelihood ratios, kappa statistics, and accuracy—were calculated. Subgroup analyses were stratified by gender, age, body temperature, symptom status, and collection site. Results: ELISA reported the highest malaria prevalence, followed by RDT, microscopy, and PCR, with statistically significant differences across methods (p = 0.0001). Microscopy showed good sensitivity (82.8%) and specificity (80.6%), with moderate agreement with PCR (κ = 0.60). RDT demonstrated the best diagnostic agreement with PCR (κ = 0.73), high specificity (93.7%), and strong positive predictive value (85.1%). It also showed the highest positive likelihood ratio (PLR = 12.21), making it reliable for confirming malaria cases. ELISA exhibited the highest sensitivity (98.9%) and negative predictive value (96.9%), but its low specificity (56.0%) indicates a risk of overestimating cases due to antibody persistence. Its low negative likelihood ratio (NLR = 0.02) supports its utility for ruling out infection. Conclusion: RDT emerged as the most diagnostically balanced method, offering high agreement with PCR and strong specificity. Microscopy remains valuable in skilled settings, while ELISA is better suited for surveillance than acute diagnosis due to low specificity. An integrated diagnostic approach leveraging the strengths of each method can enhance malaria control strategies in endemic areas like Buea, Cameroon.
Understanding Sleep Patterns in Pediatric Patients: A Comprehensive Review
According to world journal of clinical pediatric there is a complex relationship between sleep disorders and childhood neurodevelopment, emotional, behavioral and intellectual disorders (NDEBID). NDEBID include several conditions such as attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, epilepsy and learning (intellectual) disorders. Up to 75% of children and young people (CYP) with NDEBID are known to experience different types of insomnia, compared to 3% to 36% in normally developing population. Sleep disorders affect 15% to 19% of adolescents with no disability, in comparison with 26% to 36% among CYP with moderate learning disability (LD) and 44% among those with severe LD. Chronic sleep deprivation is associated with significant risks of behavioural problems, impaired cognitive development and learning abilities, poor memory, mood disorders and school problems. It also increases the risk of other health outcomes, such as obesity and metabolic consequences, significantly impacting on the wellbeing of other family members.
Prolonged Coffee Consumption: Neurological Impacts and Cognitive Effects After Discontinuation
Coffee is one of the most widely consumed psychoactive substances globally, largely due to its caffeine content. While moderate intake is associated with cognitive benefits and neuroprotection, prolonged, high-dose use may lead to neuroadaptive changes, altering neuronal thresholds, dependence and long-term brain plasticity. This review investigates the neurocognitive consequences of chronic coffee consumption and the withdrawal-related effects on brain cell thresholds, synaptic function, and higher-order cognition. The findings suggest that abrupt cessation after prolonged use can transiently impair attention, mood, and executive function due to neurochemical dysregulation.
Barriers to Implementing Kangaroo Mother Care in Neonatal Care Services in Luanda
Background: Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) is an evidence-based strategy to provide vital support for preterm or low-birth-weight infants, developed in response to shortages of technological and human resources. It combines qualified, humanized care with biopsychosocial interventions centered on skin-to-skin contact. Objective: To analyze the barriers limiting effective implementation of KMC in neonatal services at maternity hospitals in Luanda, Angola. Development: Although KMC is used globally (in both low- and high-income countries), its application in Luanda remains limited. This setting faces high birth rates and insufficient resources for neonatal care. Continuous, specialized training of nursing staff is identified as a critical factor for adequate care delivery, enabling integrated support for the newborn and family as a unit, and is essential for KMC adoption. Conclusions: KMC represents an effective, humanized approach for immediate neonatal care in Luanda. Urgent training of healthcare staff in caring for preterm mother-infant dyads is fundamental. Furthermore, increasing prenatal KMC awareness among the population may contribute to reducing infant mortality under one year of age.
Optimizing Outcomes in Primary Care: We Cannot Spell ‘Precision’ Without ‘Person’
Healthcare providers are becoming increasingly more aware of the benefits realized by engaging the health seeker. The literature is clear on the effectiveness of including “the soft skills” of motivational interviewing, of collaborative goal setting, and in utilizing readiness to change models. These soft skills have a hard science in behavioral economics, psychology and more recently in the systemic effects witnessed throughout a person’s physiology when they feel recognized and included. As healthcare experiences provider burnout and barriers of efficiency, it can be tempting for the trend of protocols to dominate, alleviating both time and decision making from providers with compassion fatigue. It is the convergence of these pressures, along with the advances in “the soft skills” and a simultaneous rise in (demand for) precision medicine and precision rehabilitation, that we begin to see the chasm between personalized care and precision care. This article details the elusive nature of societal wellness, disease and disability prevention by utilizing a bridge of personalizing care. Affording health seekers and providers alike the opportunity to leverage the science of behavioral change will require a collaboration between patient and provider, one that may even alleviate some of the burdens that providers presently experience.
Non-Adherence to Anti-Tuberculosis Treatment and its Associated Factors among TB Patients at Tamavua Twomey Hospital, Suva
Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), an infectious bacterial disease that most frequently affects the lungs but can harm any tissue, is the cause of Tuberculosis. MTB spreads between people through the respiratory system or airborne. Only around 10% of MTB infection sufferers develop active TB disease during their lifetime; the remaining 90% can control their infection successfully [1].
Examining the Factors Related to Vaccine Hesitancy Among Individuals with Disabilities in the Fako and Meme Divisions of Cameroon
Introduction: Vaccines are a cornerstone of public health, effectively combating infectious diseases. However, vaccine hesitancy—defined as delaying or refusing vaccination despite availability—is a significant threat to global health, as recognized by the World Health Organization. This study investigated the knowledge, attitudes, and factors associated with vaccine hesitancy among people with disabilities in the Fako and Meme Divisions of Cameroon. Methods: A community-based, cross-sectional study design was employed, using a multi-stage probability sampling technique to recruit 116 participants. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 26, with descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests to determine associations between vaccine hesitancy and the categorical variables. Results: The study population ranged in age from 17 to 75 years (mean age 36.67 ± 15.86 years), with an equal gender distribution (50% female, 50% male). The majority of participants had completed secondary education (50%), followed by primary education (33.6%) and tertiary education (16.4%). Deafness was the most prevalent disability (41.4%). While just over half of the participants (52.6%) recognized the importance of vaccines, only half (50%) perceived them as safe. Despite this, overall knowledge (63%) and attitude (64%) towards vaccination were positive. Statistical analysis revealed significant associations between vaccine hesitancy and both the type of disability (p=0.001) and marital status (p=0.036). Conclusion: People with disabilities in the study area demonstrated relatively good knowledge and positive attitudes toward vaccines. However, being single was identified as a significant factor influencing vaccine knowledge and uptake. The study recommends targeted vaccine education campaigns for all marital status groups within the disabled community to address potential hesitancy and promote vaccination.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury: Risk Factors and Injury Mechanisms. A Systematic Review
Introduction: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture is a highly prevalent injury, particularly among athletes, and poses significant physical and psychological challenges that negatively impact quality of life. Numerous risk factors (RFs) and injury mechanisms (IMs) have been described. However, the validity of many studies in this field is questionable, underscoring the need for a critical evaluation of the existing research. This systematic review (SR) aims to assess the quality of the recent literature on ACL ruptures and identify the primary evidence based RFs and IMs. Methods: This SR included review article published within the last five years and indexed in the PubMed database. Eligible studies focused on potential RFs and IMs associated with ACL rupture. Studies focusing on surgical or conservative treatments, concomitant injuries, or exclusively post-surgical populations were excluded. The selection process followed PRISMA guidelines, and the quality of the included articles was evaluated using the AMSTAR-2 tool. Results: A total of 10 SRs, encompassing findings from 218 individual studies, were included. Of these, 8 reviews were rated as "critically low quality," 1 as "low quality," and 1 as "moderate quality." The analysis identified 13 potential RFs and 3 primary IMs associated with ACL rupture. Conclusions: The overall methodological quality of the research is low, with the majority of SRs rated as "critically low." Key RFs identified include sport-specific demands, sex, neuromuscular characteristics, and a family history of ACL injury. Primary IMs associated with ACL rupture include stiff landings, heel-strike landings, knee hyperextension, valgus collapse, and internal rotation. These findings underscore the urgent need for higher-quality research to improve understanding of ACL risks and inform the development of effective prevention programs.
Detection of Malnourished Children Below 5 years in Darchula, Nepal: The Impact of Universal Community-Based Screening
Background: Proper nutrition is vital for health and the wellbeing of children. It supports physical growth, brain development, better immune function, prevent malnutrition and reduces the risk of mortality during the early period of life. However, reduction of malnutrition of the children remains highly concerning challenge globally and a priority (P1) program for the government of Nepal. The proportion of stunted and wasted children below 5 years of age children in Sudurpashchim province were 41 and 14 per thousand live births, respectively, which is significantly higher than the national data, which is 32 and 12 per thousand live births, respectively. These children are at greater risk of morbidity and mortality due to severe acute malnutrition. Hence, it was necessary to conduct a district wide campaign to effectively detect malnourished children. Methods: The Health Office of Darchula of Sudurpashchim province conducted a district wide campaign reaching out to take anthropometric assessment of children below the age of five years between July 1, 2021, and October 15, 2021. The data collected was analyzed to estimate the prevalence of malnutrition by types and severity among children of the study group. Materials and Methods: The number of children below five from the Darchula District of Sudurpashchim province 5953. The data collected from these children was analyzed using universal anthropometric assessment. The Emergency Nutrition Assessment (ENA) for Standardized Monitoring and Assessment of Relief and Transitions (SMART) software was used to find out the prevalence of malnourished children in Darchula District of Sudurpashchim province of Nepal. The data was collected between July 1, 2021, and October 15, 2021. The study intended to analyse the findings out of 5953 under 5 children assessed from 43 wards of Darchula district where were done. severe acute malnutrition in terms of z-scores, oedema and 95% confidence intervals were obtained from data of the nutrition assessment campaign. Results: A total of 5953 children from 43 wards from the Darchula District of Sudurpashchim province were admitted into the study. Analysis revealed the prevalence of Global acute malnutrition (GAM) at 10.6 % (95% CI, 9.8 - 11.4), Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) at 2.8 % (95% CI, 2.4 - 3.3), i.e. 162 children, and 450 children with Moderate Acute Malnutrition (MAM). However, before this campaign, only 9 SAM cases (6 in 2019 and 3 in 2020) were detected and treated during the two previous years. Conclusion: District wide campaigns was found to be highly effective inn detecting GAM, SAM, and MAM cases that were missed in previous limited interventions. This will permit these new cases to be properly managed through early detection and prevention of the complications.
Standardized Monitoring and Assessment of Relief and Transitions
A Methodological Review of Artificial Intelligence Technology Application in Mental Health Disorders
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has increasingly gained attention for its potential in diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health disorders, addressing critical gaps in traditional mental healthcare. This study explores the application of AI technologies, models, and datasets to mental health disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. A systematic review of 40 peer-reviewed studies published between 2014 and 2024 was conducted, sourced from PubMed and Google Scholar. The review examines AI techniques such as machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), and natural language processing (NLP), used in building AI models with diverse data types, including neuroimaging and body signals. Popular models observed include Support Vector Machine (SVM), Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), and Ensembling models. These models have various applications in developing technologies and phenomena such as wearable sensors and digital phenotyping, intending to improve mental healthcare. One of the potentials of AI is in overcoming traditional mental health challenges, including limited access and high costs. Although our findings indicate significant advancements in AI's diagnostic accuracy and personalised intervention potential. However, limitations persist, raising questions about AI’s reliability. This review identifies challenges and limitations with present-day AI technologies. Some of these are model performance, and barriers to widespread implementation, such as privacy concerns, algorithmic bias, and the need for diverse datasets. Recommendations for future research are provided, emphasising the need for larger, more inclusive datasets, research diversity, and the integration of AI into real-world clinical settings to optimise patient outcomes.
A Qualitative Cross-Sectional Study Aimed at Identifying Barriersto Accessing Routine Vaccinations and Strategies for Improvement: Perspectives from Healthcare Workers in the City of Buea in Cameroon
Background: Vaccination is a vital public health intervention that has saved millions of lives worldwide. In Cameroon, however, challenges persist in vaccination coverage, especially in the Buea region, where access and uptake remain uneven. This study aimed to assess the barriers to routine vaccination access in Buea from the perspectives of healthcare workers and identify strategies to improve vaccination coverage in children below five years. Methods: The study used qualitative research design with in-depth interviews based on the WHO BeSD tool. Healthcare workers, including nurses and midwives with at least one year of vaccination experience, were recruited from various health facilities in the city of Buea. The interviews explored participants' views on vaccination access, barriers, and potential solutions. Audio recordings were transcribed, and thematic analysis was carried out using Dedoose software. Results: Sixteen female healthcare providers, with an average age of 30 ± 5 years, participated in the study. The primary barriers to vaccination access identified were adverse reactions, false rumors, financial limitations, follow-up challenges, missed appointments, inaccessibility, vaccine shortages, poor cold chain management, inadequate staffing, negative past experiences, limited knowledge of vaccine importance, children's poor health, vaccine refusal, religious influences, and the unavailability of caregivers. Healthcare workers proposed several strategies to improve vaccination services, such as better communication with patients, community outreach and follow-up, ongoing education, enhancing cold chain management, increasing the workforce, and addressing cultural and religious factors. They highlighted the need to counter false rumors, provide financial support, and improve accessibility to vaccination services. Conclusion: This study reveals the multifaceted barriers to vaccination access in Buea from the healthcare workers' perspectives. Overcoming these challenges requires a comprehensive approach, including community engagement, targeted interventions, and policy reforms. The findings emphasize the need for context-specific research to develop tailored strategies for enhancing vaccination coverage and safeguarding vulnerable populations from vaccine-preventable diseases in Buea.
Nightmare Disorders: Pharmacotherapy or Psychotherapy as The First Line Treatment?
Nightmares are almost an ubiquitous phenomenon but only nightmare disorders would need to be treated. Nightmare disorders result from a variety of causes including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), psychiatric disorders, substance abuse, or idiosyncrasy. Nightmare disorders can be treated by either pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy. We performed literature search to explore eighteen possible harmacotherapies and eleven possible psychotherapies for nightmare disorders to identify the best pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy through an evidence based approach. For PTSD-related nightmare disorders, topiramate as the first line and nabilone as the second line pharmacotherapy whereas cognitive behavior therapy, imagery rehearsal therapy (IRT), and exposure, relaxation, and rescripting therapy as the appropriate psychotherapies are recommended. For non-PTSD related nightmare disorders, triazolam or nitrazepam as the first line pharmacotherapy and IRT as the psychotherapy of choice are recommended. We then compared between all pharmacotherapies and psychotherapies to identify the best treatment for nightmare disorders in patients with and without post-traumatic stress disorder. For PTSD related nightmare disorders, pharmacotherapy is prioritized over psychotherapy. For non-PTSD related nightmare disorders, either pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy can be offered as the first line treatment.
Resilience, Dedication, and Training: A Study on Nurses Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic in Albania
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic supplied remarkable challenges for healthcare workers globally, with nurses in Albania playing an important role in response efforts. expertise their studies, challenges, and perceptions throughout this era is essential to tell future preparedness techniques and support the healthcare body of workers. Aims: This study aimed to explore demographic characteristics, stress levels, adherence to safety measures, impact on professional relationships, and overall perceptions of nurses in Albania during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a particular focus on training experiences. Methods: Population and Sample Selection: The study was conducted with the participation of 160 nurses randomly selected from hospitals and Health Centres in Tirana, Albania. Data were collected in May 2021. The sample included nurses from various services, including Infection,Oncology, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Endocrinology, Neurology, and Psychiatry, as well as primary healthcare services in Health Centres No. 10 and No. 3 in Tirana. Sample Size: After being knowledgeable approximately, the purpose of the take a look at, a pattern of 160 participating nurses filled out questionnaires at their workplaces anonymously and voluntarily. Statistical Analyses: A questionnaire with 32 questions was used for this study. After the forms were completed by 160 nurses, all data were collected into a database and then analyzed. They are expressed in numerical data but also in percentages to have a clearer picture. It is a descriptive study. Survey methodology was used. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from the statistical survey over 11 days. Results: The study conducted in May 2021 with 160 nurses revealed significant observations regarding their demographics, including gender distribution, years of experience, education levels, and age distribution. Stress levels were found to peak at the onset of the pandemic but showed a gradual decline over time. Nurses demonstrated a high level of adherence to safety measures and reported improvements in professional relationships, despite challenges related to mask-wearing. Additionally, the study highlighted nurses' high dedication to patient care and the challenges they face, including workload variability and dissatisfaction with salaries. Training experiences were also examined, revealing the need for ongoing education and skill development among nurses. Conclusion: Findings underscore the resilience, dedication, and ongoing training needs of nurses in Albania amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite facing significant obstacles, nurses have shown extraordinary commitment to their professional responsibilities and patient care. These observations emphasize the importance of continuous training, support, recognition, and investment in the nursing workforce to ensure an effective response to future crises.
Examining the Awareness Level, Prevalence and the Risk Factors that Reinforce the Schistosoma Life cycle and Its Transmission among Children in the Bosomtwe District, Ghana
Background: Schistosomiasis is prevalent in tropical and subtropical areas, especially in poor communities without access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation. Objective: The study aimed at examining the awareness level, prevalence and the risk factors that reinforce the schistosoma lifecycle and its transmission among children in the Bosomtwe District, Ghana. Methods: The study was conducted cross-sectionally and made used of positivists approach where 333 children were enrolled. These children were made to provide a 10ml urine sample, which was examined microscopically for schistosoma haematobium eggs. Data were collected using the on-line data tool Kobo Collect. Results: Out of 333 participants, median age was 14 (IQR: 12-15); 50.50% were female. Urinary schistosomiasis prevalence was 30.60%, with main predictor being urinating in fresh water (multivariate analysis). The bivariate analysis revealed that age group 11-14[2.56 (1.01-6.46) 0.047], staying close to a fresh water source [2.95 (1.75-5.00) <0.001], swimming/bathing [11.18 (4.70-26) <0.001], walking barefoot [12.00 (5.05-28.50) <0.001], drinking [4.36 (2.63-7.22) <0.001], urinating [6.36 (3.70- 10.95) <0.001], and fetching from fresh water source [2.11 (1.28-3.44) 0.003] were significantly associated with urinary schistosomiasis. Children urinating in fresh water were 3 times more likely to have schistosomiasis compared to those who did not (aOR=2.93, CI=1.41-6.08, p=0.004). Only 30% were aware, while 69.4% lacked access to clean toilets. Conclusion: The findings emphasise the urgent need for targeted interventions to raise awareness about safe sanitation practices and to provideaccess to clean toilet facilities, especially in high-risk areas.
Barriers Related to the Follow-up of the Vaccinal Schedule for the 2nd Dose of The Measles and Rubes Vaccine in The Bafia Health District
Introduction: Compliance with measles-rubella (MR) vaccine completeness is a performance indicator for the immunisation service and helps to protect children. The aim of the study was to determine the factors influencing behavioural change linked to achieving MR2 vaccination coveragein the Bafia health district. Materials and Methods: This quantitative research conducted in the Bafia health district in May-June 2024 assessed the knowledge, attitudes, practices and perceptions of 51 mothers of children aged between 15 months and 2 years in the community. Results: 45% of mothers declared that their children had not received the 2nd dose of MR and 45% were not familiar with the vaccination schedule. The factor significantly associated with non-compliance with the vaccination schedule was accurate knowledge of the vaccination schedule (Chisquare =34.412; P-value-0.00). 69% of mothers were partially satisfied with vaccination services and 33% felt that the vaccination site was too far away. The barriers identified were knowledge, access to information and financial resources at individual, family, community and institutional levels respectively. Conclusion: In order to improve measles vaccination coverage in the Bafia health district, our suggestions focused on: training/raising awareness among mothers; organisation of advanced vaccination strategies, community involvement and nudge.