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
Martial Arts Traditional Karate Character Modeling and Formation Technique
Background: In a contemporary society driven by rapid technological advances and widespread virtualization, individuals increasingly suffer from fragmented attention spans, low frustration tolerance, and an overall sense of ethical liquidity (pp. 4, 8-9). While modern performance sports often prioritize external verification such as scores and medals, a critical gap exists in modern systems for holistic character development and long-term moral anchoring (pp. 5, 10, 19). Objectives: This study aims to identify the specific pedagogical, psychological, and biomechanical mechanisms by which traditional Karate training—modeled as a “school of character”—systematically fosters core personality traits, specifically focusing on perseverance (Ninyo), respect (Rei), and self-control (Zanshin) (pp. 5-6, 11). Furthermore, the research seeks to validate the hypothesis that a baseline physical practice can serve as a superior tool for structural character transformation, reducing aggression while expanding a practitioner’s capacity for voluntary effort (p. 21, 41). Methodology: Utilizing an applied research framework centered on a systematic training regimen (minimum of 3 sessions per week), this work analyzes the foundational principles of traditional Shotokan Karate through a multidisciplinary lens. It integrates the structural triad of Shin-Gi-Tai (Spirit-Technique-Body), the physiological biofeedback of specialized breathing techniques (Ibuki), and the strict adherence to martial arts etiquette (Reigi) (pp. 20-21, 36). Newtonian dynamics (F=ma and Kinetic Energy equations) are applied to demonstrate how correct technical refinement directly correlates to behavioral discipline and emotional regulation (pp. 32, 34). Historical evolution—from ancestral roots in Okinawa under weapon bans to its academic integration by Gichin Funakoshi—is also contextualized alongside regional structural benchmarks like the pioneers of traditional Karate in Romania (pp. 24, 27, 30). Results: The conceptual synthesis establishes that precise technical execution functions as an explicit mechanism of mindfulness and emotional control (pp. 20-21). Under strict biomechanical constraints, stopping a high-impact strike millimeters from a target (Sun-dome) transitions brute force into conscious intent, reinforcing cognitive control over impulsive actions and stress responses (pp. 6, 8). The meritocratic framework of degree examinations and martial competitions provides necessary “emotional immunization,” transforming failure from an existential crisis into a constructive direction indicator for life skill development (p. 39, 41). Conclusions: The work concludes that an inseparable link exists between physical precision and moral refinement (p. 21). Traditional Karate offers an effective antidote to modern overstimulation and sedentary lifestyles (pp. 8-9, 39). By translating the rigid external architecture of the Dojo to an internal moral framework, practitioners successfully sublimate aggressive impulses into civic empathy and self-regulation, resulting in complete character modeling (pp. 19, 21, 38).
Copyright (c) 2026 Journal of Family Medicine and Preventive Medicine
The Evolving Face of Malaria - Elimination to Eradication
Malaria, one of humanity’s oldest scourges, is undergoing a dramatic epidemiological and therapeutic transformation. Once defined by high transmission, limited diagnostics, and chloroquine-based therapy, the disease today faces a complex landscape of declining incidence in some regions, persistent hotspots, drug and insecticide resistance, and emerging climate-driven shifts. The global agenda has moved from control to elimination, with WHO’s 2030 targets and several countries now malaria-free. India, accounting for the majority of cases in South-East Asia, has shown remarkable progress yet faces challenges from _Plasmodium falciparum_ resistance, _P. vivax_ relapses, urban malaria, and asymptomatic reservoirs. This talk will map malaria’s evolving face across three dimensions. First, *parasite and vector biology* - emergence of artemisinin partial resistance, _Pfhrp2/3_ deletions compromising RDTs, and vector behavior changes undermining bed nets. Second, *innovation surge* - deployment of R21/Matrix-M and RTS,S vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, next-gen diagnostics, and gene-drive approaches for vector control. Third, *programmatic reality* - the “last mile” challenge of case-based surveillance, radical cure for _vivax_, and financing elimination in low-transmission settings. Indian data will illustrate regional heterogeneity, ICU burden of severe malaria, and practical treatment updates for clinicians. The session concludes that eradication is biologically feasible but operationally formidable. Success will depend on integrating new tools with robust health systems, cross-border collaboration, and sustained political will. For clinicians, the message is clear: malaria is not disappearing, it is evolving. Diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies must evolve with it.
AI-Generated Disaster Simulations and Public Engagement with Climate Risk
Climate change communication increasingly seeks effective ways to reduce the psychological distance between individuals and environmental threats in order to strengthen public awareness, emotional engagement, and motivation for action. One emerging approach involves the use of AI-generated audiovisual simulations that create vivid and realistic depictions of climate-related disasters. Such simulations may enhance emotional responses and increase the perceived immediacy and personal relevance of climate risks. The present study examined whether AI-generated disaster simulations influence fear, worry, perceived personal relevance, and willingness to act regarding climate change, and whether these effects are amplified when the simulated disasters are presented in a local rather than distant context. The study was conducted among a representative Israeli sample (N = 402). Participants viewed four short AI-generated films depicting climate-related disaster scenarios: wildfires in Israel, wildfires abroad, a tsunami in Israel, and a tsunami abroad. To reduce potential order effects, the presentation order of the films was counterbalanced across participants. Following exposure to the four films, participants ranked each scenario according to its impact on four dimensions: fear, worry, perceived personal relevance, and willingness to take action, where 1 represented the most impactful film and 4 represented the least impactful. The findings revealed a strong and consistent locality effect across all examined outcomes.
Functional Approaches to Interceptive Orthodontics: The Importance of Nasal Breathing and Tongue Posture
Interceptive orthodontics is an important stage in the evaluation of the growing child. At this stage, the clinician's goal is not only to examine the position of the teeth, but also to identify, as early as possible, the functional factors that may influence the development of the oral cavity, the dental arches, and the overall balance of the orofacial system.
Identifying Risk Factors for Bartholin’s Gland Cyst and Abscess Formation: A Retrospective Case Series
Bartholin’s glands are paired vestibular glands essential to vulvovaginal lubrication. Bartholin’s gland cysts and abscesses (C&As) affect approximately 2% of females and are associated with significant pain, dyspareunia, and impaired quality of life. Recurrence rates approach 40%, yet risk factors and preventive strategies remain poorly defined. Although hormonal influences, sexual activity, and vaginal infections have been proposed as contributing factors, supporting evidence is limited. This study aims to identify behaviors that may promote C&A occurrence and recurrence through descriptive analysis of survey data. 132 participants with a history of C&A recruited through an online forum completed a 45-item electronic survey assessing demographics, potential exposures, and clinical characteristics. Out of 132 participants, 77.3% reported abscesses, and 93.2%, cysts. Median onset was 19-30 years. 15.2% had not engaged in intercourse before onset of their first C&A. 12.9% reported menstrual cup or disc use; 21.2%, vaginal delivery; 77.3%, hormonal birth control use. 32.6% reported abnormal PAP results, with 44.2% ASCUS, 48.8% HPV and 14.0% cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. 24.2% reported positive STI tests. 50% reported vaginal infections; 69.7%, UTIs. 49.6% routinely bathe after intercourse. 12.1% reported vaginal douching at least once. Abscess episodes ranged from 1–10. Findings should be interpreted cautiously given potential biases and study-design limitations. Bartholin’s gland C&As remain underrepresented in literature despite high recurrence rates. Our findings underscore the multifactorial nature of disease development and highlight the need for wider-ranging studies to clearly define a risk profile and inform preventive strategies.
Helicobacter Pylori Infection and The Latest Treatment Guidelines
Helicobacter Pylori infection is very common worldwide. Almost half of the world’s population has been found to be infected. The highest prevalence is seen in developing regions like Africa, Latin America & Asia, where prevalence can reach to more than 80%, while much lower rates are seen in developed countries. The most likely source of spread is fecal-oral route, which explains its high prevalence in areas of low hygiene.
The Misunderstood Individuals on the Autism Spectrum: How a Structured Multi-Modality Holistic Process Can Help Them
Children and adults on the autism spectrum have long been considered developmentally delayed and limited in their cognition. Recently, enhanced communication methods such as Spell 2 Communicate have revealed them to be highly observant, sensitive, and emotionally mature. Significant improvements in communication, socialization, cognition, sensorium, health and behavior can be achieved with homeopathy, a form of natural medicine. This research study documents the improvements with a specific form of homeopathy developed to help children on the autism spectrum. Twenty-five children undergoing homeopathic care were scored by their parents using a standard questionnaire, the Autism Evaluation Checklist (ATEC) developed by the Autism Research Institute. The checklist was designed to be completed by parents, teachers, or primary caregivers. The Autism Research Institute provides the checklist in PDF format and offers an online version. The questionnaire was administered at the beginning of homeopathic care and again in March of 2025. Subjects showed an average of 48.5% improvement over an average of 39 months. A similar smaller study was conducted on seven children with significantly delayed development due to other conditions such as PANS/PANDAS. Subjects showed an average of 68% improvement over an average of 31 months. This paper also describes additional holistic modalities that parents can implement at home to develop their children’s capacities. Based on the improvement levels achieved by the methods documented here, the approach and procedures documented in this study show significant potential for helping to alleviate the pain and suffering of these children and their families, to increase their chances of living a more fulfilling life, and to reduce magnitude of societal obligations from a rapidly increasing number of autistic children.
Autism, Homeopathy, Holistic Modalities, ASD, Natural Healing
Farah Ganjei Gron, CCH, RSHom (NA) Farah Ganjei Gron, CCH, RSHom (NA)
Expanding Access to Bedside Diagnosis: Implementation of POCUS to Identify Gallstones in Rural Healthcare Settings
Gallstones affect 10-15% of adults and are a common cause of right upper quadrant (RUQ) pain. Current literature increasingly supports point-ofcare- ultrasound (POCUS) for biliary assessment, but its real-world implementation in low-resource environments remains underreported. Although ultrasound is the first-line diagnostic modality, access may be limited in rural settings. Handheld POCUS may help bridge this gap and provide rapid evaluation when cart-based systems are unavailable. A 71-year-old woman presented with one day of acute RUQ pain to a rural clinic. Physical examination demonstrated positive Murphy’s and Lloyd’s signs. Laboratory testing was unavailable. Bedside POCUS revealed multiple gallstones with posterior acoustic shadowing, gallbladder wall thickening, and a positive sonographic Murphy’s sign, without biliary ductal dilation. Findings were most consistent with symptomatic cholelithiasis versus early cholecystitis. The patient received analgesia with symptomatic improvement and was discharged with expedited referral for cholecystectomy. This case highlights the utility of handheld POCUS in low-resource settings, supporting timely diagnosis and reducing barriers to care.
POCUS, Rural Medicine, Biliary Disease, Global Medicine, Ultrasound, Bedside Access
Screen Addiction in Adolescents: Empirical Analysis of The Links with Attention Disorders and Depression
Intensive screen use among adolescents is associated with alterations in attentional functioning and an increase in depressive symptoms. However, findings in the scientific literature remain heterogeneous and sometimes contradictory. This article examines the available empirical data by detailing the protocols of the main studies, and then proposes a critical discussion highlighting the current theoretical tensions. Finally, clinical recommendations are formulated in order to support adolescents presenting problematic screen use and attentional disorders.
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
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.
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Family Medicine and Preventive Medicine
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].