MyMedR

Displaying publications 601 - 620 of 751 in total

Abstract:

Sort:

Depressive symptoms in adolescents in Kuching, Malaysia: Prevalence and associated factors

Ang AL, Wahab S, Abd Rahman FN, Hazmi H, Md Yusoff R

Pediatr Int, 2019 Apr;61(4):404-410.
PMID: 30597707 DOI: 10.1111/ped.13778

BACKGROUND: The trend of depression is rising worldwide. There are limited studies on depression in adolescents. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of and identify the factors associated with depressive symptoms in adolescents in Kuching, Malaysia, and to analyze the relationship between depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation.
METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 320 students from urban and rural secondary schools. The participants were randomly selected via multi-stage sampling. They completed the Malay versions of the Children's Depression Inventory (CDI) and Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (BSS).
RESULTS: The prevalence of depressive symptoms was 26.2%. On binary logistic regression analysis, variables with significant association with depressive symptoms were race (P = 0.028), type of class (P < 0.001), mother's education level (P = 0.036), type of housing (P = 0.036), parents' marital status (P = 0.012), alcohol intake (P = 0.005), stealing (P < 0.001) and history of disciplinary record (P = 0.005). Variables that remained significant on multivariable logistic regression were type of class (P = 0.004), parents' marital status (P = 0.017) and stealing (P < 0.001). Students from the Arts stream (OR, 2.43) with parents who were separated, divorced or widowed (OR, 3.13) and who had experience of stealing (OR, 3.27) were predicted to be at risk of developing depressive symptoms. There was a significant correlation between total CDI score and total BSS score (P < 0.001).
CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of depressive symptoms in adolescents was high. Depressive symptoms are significantly correlated with suicidal ideation. Greater collaboration between the education and health agencies is essential for mental health promotion in schools and early detection of depression, especially in at-risk adolescents.

Matched MeSH terms: Schools
Fulltext Pharmacy students' perception and inclination toward scholarly research publications: A multinational study

Bhagavathula AS, Bandari DK, Jamshed SQ, Chattu VK

J Educ Health Promot, 2018;7:131.
PMID: 30505859 DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_77_18

BACKGROUND: Scholarly research experiences during student life can make pharmacy students capable of reaching the pinnacle of triumph with scientific skills.

AIM: The aim of this study is to assess the perception of pharmacy students and their inclination toward scholarly research publications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional web-based survey was conducted among pharmacy students across India, Malaysia, and Pakistan. A 21-item questionnaire was distributed through different social networking sites between July and September 2016. Descriptive and Chi-square tests were used to analyze the findings. A value of P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

RESULTS: Of 543 pharmacy students approached, 348 participants from India, Pakistan, and Malaysia were included giving a response rate of 64%. The study comprises 48.5% of males and 51.4% of females, studying a bachelor of pharmacy (44.5%), and from private institutions (94%). Nearly, three-fourths (76.4%) of the students had no publications but showed high interest toward original research (87.4%). Most of the participants cited the reasons to engage in the scholarly publication is too advanced research/share findings (74.1%), and to improve writing and research skills (73.6%). Further, a significant percentage of students agreed that contributing to the literature during student life as a valuable experience and publishing will provide them with personal fulfilment.

CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that most of the pharmacy students had positive perceptions toward scholarly research activities to advance research and improve their writing research skills. We recommend the pharmacy schools to incorporate scholarly activities in the curriculum to embark research-inclusive career.

Matched MeSH terms: Schools, Pharmacy
Fulltext The effect of the SIMS Programme versus existing preschool oral healthcare programme on oral hygiene level of preschool children: study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial

Yusof ZYM, Anwar NH, Mohd Nor NA, Nor MM, Mustafa SE

Trials, 2021 Feb 22;22(1):156.
PMID: 33618735 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-021-05111-0

BACKGROUND: Despite the implementation of the preschool oral healthcare programme (POHP) for 5-6-year-old children over the past 3 decades in Malaysia, dental plaque and caries levels in this age group remain high. Among the child-level attributable factors are unhealthy self-care behaviours (poor oral hygiene and high sugary diet). In order to improve the children's oral health, an improved programme called the 'Senyuman Indah Milik Semua' Programme (SIMSP) or 'Beautiful Smile for All' programme is introduced. In this programme, a triad of dental hygienist-teacher-parent works together to improve children's oral hygiene levels compared with the existing POHP that involves dental hygienists only. The aim of this study is to compare the effect of the SIMSP versus the existing POHP on oral hygiene levels of 5-6-year-old children in the Kampar district, Perak state, Malaysia.
METHODS: This study is a pragmatic, cluster-randomised, parallel-group, matched pair, controlled trial with blinded outcome assessment. Randomisation is performed using a computer-generated table with a 1:1 allocation comparing the SIMSP and the POHP involving 28 preschools in the Kampar district, Perak, Malaysia. The intervention consists of preschool visits by a group of dental therapists, in-class oral health lessons and daily toothbrushing conducted by class teacher, child home toothbrushing supervised by parents, and infographic oral health messages to parents. The control consists of the existing POHP that involves preschool visits by a group of dental therapists only. The trial lasts for 6 months. Primary outcome variable is the mean plaque score change after 6 months. To determine the feasibility of the SIMSP, a process evaluation will be conducted using the perspectives of dental therapists, teachers, and parents on the appropriateness, effectiveness, facilitators, and barriers to the SIMSP implementation as well as an audit trail to assess the trial intervention.
DISCUSSION: Cluster randomisation may lead to a random effect and cluster selection bias. These factors will be accounted for when analysing the data and interpreting the outcomes. The effectiveness of the SIMSP will be evaluated by comparing the results with those of the POHP.
TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04339647 . Registered on 5 April 2020 - Retrospectively registered.

Matched MeSH terms: Schools
Fulltext Respiratory Symptoms Among Domestic Waste Collectors

Salvaraji L, Jeffree MS, Avoi R, Akhir HM, Rahim SSSA, Lukman KA

Medeni Med J, 2020;35(4):304-309.
PMID: 33717622 DOI: 10.5222/MMJ.2020.82246

Objective: Increasing amount of waste concurrently increases the risk of exposure to hazardous materials among waste collectors. Vigorous exertion in the field intensifies the abundance of contaminated inspirable droplets. If left undetected and untreated, it may provoke significant pernicious health effects and redundant burdens to employees and employers. The purpose of this study is to determine the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and their associated factors among domestic waste collectors.
Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah between January and April 2020. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire which encompasses details about sociodemographic, health status, environment, and employment characteristics.
Results: A total of 290 waste collectors with a mean age of 40 (±9) years old were participated in the study. Most of them were from Kadazan-Dusun-Murut ethnic origin with educational background till secondary school. The average monthly income of the workers was USD 298.45 (±171.9) per month, and they had been in service for 11 (±9.04) years. Respiratory symptoms were seen in 21% of the workers. The identified significant risk factors were determined as underlying chronic diseases (OR=2.34; 95% CI=1.054, 5.219) and contact with pets (OR=1.87; 95% CI=1.004, 3.288).
Conclusion: Respiratory symptoms are prevalent amidst domestic waste collectors and related to their health and field activities.

Matched MeSH terms: Schools
Fulltext The Prevalence and Risk Factors of Hypertension among the Urban Population in Southeast Asian Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Mohammed Nawi A, Mohammad Z, Jetly K, Abd Razak MA, Ramli NS, Wan Ibadullah WAH, et al.

Int J Hypertens, 2021;2021:6657003.
PMID: 33628485 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6657003

The trend of global prevalence for hypertension has been dramatically increasing for the past two decades in Southeast Asian countries. A systematic review aiming to assess the prevalence of hypertension and its risk factors among the urban population in Southeast Asian countries was conducted. We performed database searches of PubMed and Web of Science and performed meta-analysis to determine the pooled prevalence estimate. The overall pooled prevalence estimate of hypertension for Southeast Asian urban population was 33.82%. Among this, 33.98% of hypertension was reported in the community and 32.45% among adolescents in school. The common risk factors that we found were male, ethnicity, education and socioeconomic level, body mass index, waist circumference, smoking, and dyslipidaemia. The review indicates an urgent need for primary and secondary prevention activities. Therefore, a multisectoral and intersectoral approach and collaboration should be undertaken to improve the overall health outcomes of all populations in all Southeast Asian countries.

Matched MeSH terms: Schools
Fulltext Oral health status of a group of visually impaired school children in Kuala Lumpur

Afsary Jahan Khan, Mas Suryalis Ahmad, Ahmad Shuhud Irfani Zakaria, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Tanti Irawati Rosli

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2020;16(1):100-105.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Children with visual impairment are reported to be at higher risk of poor oral health. They faced dif- ficulties in basic skills including oral care. For this reason, they may develop dental caries and periodontal disease. The aim of this study was to assess the oral health status of a group of visually impaired school children in Kuala Lumpur. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on students from a Special Education School in Kuala Lumpur. Oral examination was conducted to determine caries experience and oral hygiene status. Caries was mea- sured using DMFT index and simplified oral hygiene index (OHI-S) for oral hygiene status. Oral examination was based on modified World Health Organization (WHO) oral health assessment criteria for children. Chi-square test was used to determine associations between demographic variables and oral health status. Results: A total of 91 visually impaired students (41 blind, 50 low vision) within the age group of 13 to 17 years old participated in this study. The mean OHI-S score was 1.68 (SD 0.87) with majority of students had fair oral hygiene (39.6%) and 29.7% with poor and very poor oral hygiene. The mean DMFT score of total students were 0.80 (SD 1.62). Male students demonstrated significantly better oral health status than female in relation to prevalence and mean score of dental caries. Conclusion: Most of the visually impaired children in this study showed fair oral health status. Regular oral health education is recommended to improve the oral hygiene especially in the totally blind group.

Matched MeSH terms: Schools
Fulltext Prediction and explanation on adolescent aggression: a study protocol

Fatimah Ahmad Fauzi, Nor Afiah Mohd Zulkefli, Anisah Baharom

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2020;16(1):106-114.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Adolescent aggression is an important public health concern with escalating prevalence of juvenile cases and violence among these age groups including robbery, homicide, and gang fights. The objectives of this study protocol are to determine the biopsychosocial predictors and explore the contextual factors of adolescent ag- gression among secondary school students in Hulu Langat. Methods: Explanatory mixed method study design will be used, consist of quantitative cross-sectional study followed by basic qualitative study. Proportionate population sampling among Form 4 secondary school students from selected public secondary schools in Hulu Langat will be executed. Questionnaires will be distributed to 481 students on aggression as the dependent variable, and several independent variables: demographic (ethnicity, family income), biological (sex, head injury, nutritional deficiency, breakfast skipping), psychological (attitude and normative beliefs, personality trait, emotional intelligence), and so- cial factors (family environment, single parent status, domestic violence, peer deviant affiliation, alcohol, smoking, substance abuse). Subsequently, participants with moderate to high aggression scores will be further explored on the contextual factors of adolescent aggression by in-depth interview. Multiple linear regression will be executed using SPSS to determine significant predictors whereas thematic analysis will be applied for qualitative data analysis on the context of adolescent aggression. Both findings will be further integrated and discussed to give comprehensive description on the phenomena. Conclusion: Better knowledge and understanding on adolescent aggression may generate new framework to drive more effective preventive strategies and unravel adolescent aggressive related Pub- lic Health problems.

Matched MeSH terms: Schools
Fulltext Food label reading and understanding among obese adults: a population study in Malaysia

Rashidah Ambak, Balkish Mahadir Naidu, Mohd Azahadi Omar, Nor Azian Mohd Zaki, Syafinaz Mohd Sallehuddin, Tahir Aris

Int J Public Health Res, 2014;4(2):449-456.
MyJurnal

Introduction Food labeling regulation has been implemented to enable consumers, including those with chronic diseases to make healthy informed choices before purchasing pre-packaged foods. The purpose of this study is to determine the prevalence of obese adults in Malaysia who practice reading food labels. It explored types of labels read and understanding of the information.
Methods Findings presented in this study were captured from the secondary analysis of National Health and Morbidity Survey’s (NHMS, 2006) food label study which focused only on obese adults (BMI > 30 kg/m2) aged 18 and above. This nation-wide cross sectional study was conducted from April to August 2006 using an interview-based questionnaire. Complex data analysis was done using Stata version 12.0.
Results There were 4565 obese respondents with the mean age of 33 ± 9.7 (18-60 years old). About 54.7% completed high-school and 9.9% were higher degree
holders. Prevalence of obese adults who claimed to read label was 80.5% (95%CI: 79.3, 81.6). Findings showed significant results in reading and understanding labels among all age group categories, Malay, Indian and other Bumiputras, all education categories and married respondents. Expiry date was the highest percentage being read (74.5%), followed by fat content (15.3%), vitamin (11.8%) and carbohydrate (10.9%).
Conclusions The obese population in Malaysia claimed to read and understand the food label but did not focus on specific macronutrients related to their health
condition. Findings can be used to implement effective education programmes targeting the relevant groups to instill an awareness to read, understand and use the label information as one of the means in combating obesity.
Study name: National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS-2006)

Matched MeSH terms: Schools
Fulltext Will they swim or sink? parental perception of water safety among their children

Noor Hamzani Farizan, Rosnah Sutan, Kulanthayan KC Mani

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2020;16(1):254-260.
MyJurnal

Introduction: The magnitude of drowning as one of the leading causes of death among children in Malaysia may have been underestimated. Little is known on the level of awareness on water safety among parents as it might be associated with appropriateness and adequacy of the supervision. This study aims to describe perceptions of water safety among parents of primary school children. Methods: A cross-sectional survey with 719 respondent conduct- ed to obtain information on parents self-reported on their children’s water-involved activity and swimming ability, self-estimated ability to rescue their child and perceptions of the risk of drowning and water safety for their children. Results: The result revealed that about 21.6% of respondents did not perceive drowning as one of the unintentional injury leading causes of death among children. Parents reported that their children had experienced a near- drown- ing incident (16.1%), and only 12.2% of the child had attended a formal swimming lesson. Majority of the parents did not involve in any water safety program (98.7%), can’t swim (61.6%), not been certified in CPR (87.3%) and not confident (87.3%) to perform resuscitation (CPR). Respondents also perceived their children could swim (42.1%), and they felt confident when their child in the water (45.6%). There were statistical differences between parents who reported their child had a near-drowning experience with their perception of children’s swimming ability. Conclu- sion: An exploration of parent’s perception of water safety provided an overview of the need for promoting aware- ness on drowning risk and water safety education in this country.

Matched MeSH terms: Schools
Fulltext Predicting sexual intention to engage in premarital sex among late adolescent in Kuantan government secondary schools: an application of theory of planned behaviour

Abdullah F, Draman S, Abd. Aziz KH, Zainuddin NA, Muhammad NA

IIUM Medical Journal Malaysia, 2020;19(1):109-116.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), sexual intention is determined by three main
socio-cognitive factors which are permissive attitudes, social-norms and self-efficacy in performing
premarital sexual activity. Premarital sex associated with increased risk of sexually transmitted diseases and
detrimental social implications. The aim of this study was to explore the correlation of the socio-cognitive
factors in predicting intention to engage in premarital sex amongst late adolescents in Kuantan government
secondary schools. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 466 pre-university students aged
18-19 years from nine government secondary schools in Kuantan district. A self-administered validated Youth
Sexual Intention Questionnaire (YSI-Q) was used. Statistical analyses were done using IBM SPSS version 22.0.
Results: Permissive attitude (r=0.579, p

Matched MeSH terms: Schools
Assessment on Hand Hygiene Knowledge and Practices Among Pre-school Children in Klang Valley

Tengku Jamaluddin TZM, Mohamed NA, Mohd Rani MD, Ismail Z, Ramli S, Faroque H, et al.

Glob Pediatr Health, 2020;7:2333794X20976369.
PMID: 33335950 DOI: 10.1177/2333794X20976369

Background. Pre-school children are at a higher risk to acquire infectious diseases such as hand, foot and mouth disease due to their immature immune system. Good hand hygiene prevents transmission of infectious diseases. This study aimed to determine the knowledge and practices of hand hygiene among pre-schoolers. Methods. In this prospective, multi-center study, the pre-schools were selected according to the selection criteria. A questionnaire consisting of socio-demographics, knowledge and practices of hand hygiene were administered via face-to-face interview during the pre- and post-intervention period. A total of 435 pre-schoolers aged 5 and 6 years old from 2 pre-schools within Klang Valley, School P (test group) and School C (control group) were involved in this study. The test group was provided with comprehensive hand hygiene education including video on proper handwashing technique during the 2 months intervention period, whereas the control group did not receive any form of intervention. The data were statistically analyzed using descriptive analysis and independent t-test. Results. Majority of pre-schoolers gained knowledge of handwashing from their parents. However, only 63% demonstrated good handwashing technique. Test group were significantly better (P

Matched MeSH terms: Schools
Fulltext Prevalence of soil transmitted helminths among school children in Northern Sabah

Fredie Robinson, Jecelyn John, Tin Sabai Aung, Swe, Shamsul Bahari, David Matanjun

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2019;15(106):26-26.
MyJurnal

Introduction: World Health Organization in 2019 reported that about 1.5 billion people are infected with soil-trans-mitted helminths (STH) worldwide. Infected children with STH might manifest signs of anaemia and impaired nutri-tionally or physically. This study aimed to look at the prevalence of STH in the area of North Sabah among rural pri-mary schools and examine the associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in four selected primary school in the district of Kudat of Sabah from 2014 to 2015. Tools used for the study were questionnaire and stool sampling. Questionnaire focused data on sociodemographic, hygiene and use of anti-helminths drugs. Stool samples collected were sent for microscopic examination for presence of STH ova. Written consents were obtained from parents/guardians. Chi-square was used to examine the association of having STH and factors on utilities fa-cilities, hygiene and anti-helminths drug. SPSS version 23 was used for statistical analysis. Results: There was 433 school children aged 7 to 12 years old with 224 males and 209 females respondents. Three-quarters main source of water supply in the homes from treated water. Those with proper built toilet were 96%. Practices of washing hands after toilet and before eating were 96% as well. Almost 95% wear slippers when outside homes. Only 61% took their anti-helminths drug in the past 1 year while in the last 6 months the uptake was 38.7%. The prevalence of positive ova of STH in the stool sample was 57 out of 433 or 13.2%. STH infection was not statistically significant associated with the above factors. Conclusion: The prevalence of STH infection among primary school children in the district of Kudat although has lowered over the years is still considered higher than most states in Malaysia. Continuous public health intervention is necessary to further bring down the prevalence of STH infections.

Matched MeSH terms: Schools
Fulltext Validity and reliability of knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) scale for dog bite prevention in children

Syahrizal Abdul Halim, Rosalia Saimon, Parveen Kaur Sarjeet Singh, Razitasham Safii

Borneo Epidemiology Journal, 2020;1(1):67-78.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Rabies is a highly fatal disease that is mostly caused by a dog bite. The Dog Bite Prevention KAP scale is a 30-item scale that is designed to measure children’s level of safety knowledge on dog’s behaviour, precautionary behaviour around dogs, perceived vulnerability towards dogs and help-seeking behaviour following a dog bite. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the test-retest reliability and validity of outcome measures
Methods: This questionnaire was administered to samples of school student aged from 13 years to 14 years at a secondary school located in Bau District, Sarawak. They were purposively selected for a baseline interview (Time 1) anda ten-day follow-up (Time 2). This study was conducted within four months, which were from 10 April to 31 August 2018. Descriptive analysis, content analysis, Cronbach’s alpha, intra-class correlation and exploratory factor analysis were performed in thisstudy.Results: A total of 64 boys and 114 girls were involved in the study, whereby 79.2%, 10.1%, 7.9%, 2.2% and 0.6% of them were of Bidayuh ethnic, Chinese, Iban, Malays and other ethnic, respectively. The Cronbach's alpha was 0.796. The test-retest intra-class correlation was adequate, with 0.84 for perceived vulnerability towards dogs and 0.81 for precautionary behaviour around dogs. Principal components analysis with varimax rotation resulted in two factors, which explained 39% of the variance (perceived vulnerability towards dogs) and 49% of the variance (precautionary behaviour around dogs)
Conclusion: The questionnaire is a valid and reliable tool for a dog-bite prevention survey

Matched MeSH terms: Schools
Fulltext Underweight, overweight, and tobacco use among adolescents aged 12-15 years: Evidence from 23 low-income and middle-income countries

Wang Q

Tob Induc Dis, 2021;19:37.
PMID: 34017231 DOI: 10.18332/tid/133932

INTRODUCTION: Compared with the number of studies in adults, body weight in relation to tobacco use has been understudied in the adolescent population. This study aimed to examine the association between underweight, overweight and tobacco use in low- and middle-income countries.
METHODS: Data were derived from the Global School-Based Student Health Survey (GSHS). Data from 71176 adolescents aged 12-15 years residing in 23 countries were analyzed. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 2000 growth charts were used to identify underweight, normal weight, and overweight/ obesity. Weighted age- and gender-adjusted prevalence of weight categories and tobacco use was calculated. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate the association between weight categories and tobacco use for each country, controlling for covariates. Pooled odds ratios and confidence intervals were computed using random- or fixed-effects meta-analyses.
RESULTS: A significant association between weight categories and tobacco use was evident in only a few countries. Adolescents reporting tobacco use in French Polynesia, Suriname, and Indonesia, had 72% (95% CI: 0.15-0.56), 55% (95% CI: 0.24-0.84), and 24% (95% CI: 0.61-0.94) lower odds of being underweight, respectively. Adolescents reporting tobacco use in Uganda, Algeria, and Namibia, had 2.30 (95% CI: 1.04-5.09), 1.71 (95% CI: 1.25-2.34), and 1.45 (95% CI: 1.00-2.12) times greater odds of being overweight/obese, but those in Indonesia and Malaysia had 33% (95% CI: 0.50-0.91) and 16% (95% CI: 0.73-0.98) lower odds of being overweight/obese.
CONCLUSIONS: The association between tobacco use and BMI categories is likely to be different among adolescents versus adults. Associating tobacco use with being thin may be more myth than fact and should be emphasized in tobacco prevention programs targeting adolescents.

Matched MeSH terms: Schools
Fulltext Knowledge and perceptions of palliative care among cancer patients in a tertiary hospital

Mohd Arif Atarhim, Nurul Asyiqin Ibrahim, Chong Zhi Yin, Santhna Letchmi Panduragan, Hamidah Hassan

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2020;16(105):26-0.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Early integration in palliative care for patients with advanced cancer has been correlated with an improvement quality of life, relieved depression while having survival benefits. Negative perceptions towards pal- liative care or misconception about the idea of palliative care were reported as one of the causes for late referral by physicians. The aim of this study was to determine the knowledge and perception of palliative care among can- cer patients in a tertiary hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional survey with populations of 139 cancer patients was conducted using convenience sampling. Quantitative data were collected by a structured questionnaire. A total of 92 responses were obtained. Results: Most of the participants were female (66.3%), Malay (71.7%) and attended secondary school (56.5%). The mean age of participants was 56.13 (±12.61) years while the mean income was RM 1944.20 (±2472.70). Majority of the participants had breast cancer (37.0%), followed by colorectal cancer (32.6%). Many of them were in stage IV (42.4%), followed by stage III (25.0%).Most of the cancer patients had a high level of knowledge and positive perception towards palliative care. They agreed that psychological, social and spiritual issues are a part of palliative care which helped to manage pain and other symptoms. Besides, responses portrayed positive perceptions of palliative care through the aspect of emotional reactions, cognitive reactions and palliative care needs. Conclusions: The current study has demonstrated that cancer patients in the tertiary hospital had better knowledge and perceptions in palliative care. High knowledge level and positive perception towards palliative care might increase the acceptance and palliative care practiced.

Matched MeSH terms: Schools
Fulltext Regular meals with family and its association with children’s BMI In Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Alvin Oliver Payus, Constance Liew Sat Lin, Chandrika Murugaiah, Symeon Mandrinos, Rajesh Kumar Muniandy, Malehah Mohd Noh, et al.

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2020;16(105):32-0.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Nutrition is an issue of great academic and public importance. However, there is evidence that parents do not have family breakfast, lunch or dinner with their children. This study aims to assess the prevalence of having regular family breakfast, lunch, dinner among primary school children age 7 to 12 years in Kota Kinabalu and its association with children’s weight status. Methods: The study is based on 485 children (mean age: 11.5+/-0.7 years, 54% girls) randomly selected in five primary schools in Kota Kinabalu who participated in a cross-sectional school- based survey in 2019. Data on family meals were self-reported by the parents by answering a validated question- naire. Children’s height and weight were measured to determine BMI status. Binary regression analyses assessed the associations of having regular family meals with children’s obesity status and to assess potential differences in having family meals according to gender and parental education. Results: The mean BMI male gender 24.3 ± 4.05 versus mean BMI female gender 17.9 ± 3.62 from 7 to 12 years old. The father mean BMI was 33.2 ± 8.24 versus 26.17 ±
9.63 mean BMI in mother from 32 to 52 years old. The prevalence of obesity within five (5) selected schools in Kota Kinabalu was only 13.2%. Regarding potential socio-demographic determinants, children of higher educated parents (STPM, DIPLOMA)[OR = 1.85 (95% CI 1.20–2.85)] were more likely to have breakfast together, while children of lower educated parents (SRP, SPM) [OR = 1.08 (95% CI 0.91–1.44)] were more likely to have dinner together. No significant associations of having family meals with gender observed. The prevalence of regular family meals was 94.6%, 74.17% and 93.8% for breakfast, lunch and dinner respectively. Conclusion: This study showed that having regular family breakfast, lunch and dinner was associated with children normal BMI between 18.50-24.99.

Matched MeSH terms: Schools
Fulltext Demographic and socio-economic characteristics, household food security status and academic performance among primary school children in North Kinta, Perak, Malaysia

Nor Syaza Sofiah Ahmad, Norhasmah Sulaiman

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2020;16(106):26-33.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Good academic performance is important for children to ensure their personal well-being. This cross-sectional study investigated the associations between demographic and socio-economic characteristics, house- hold food security status and academic performance among primary school children at North Kinta, Perak, Malaysia. Methods: Two national primary schools were selected randomly and all Standard 5 and 6 students were invited to participate in this study. Self-administered questionnaire on demographic and socio-economic characteristics and food security status was completed by parents. The results from last year examination were acquired from the teach- er to evaluate students’ academic performance. Results: Overall, 140 respondents were involved, in which 51.4% were male. A majority of the household (80.7%) displayed food insecurity. Multiple logistic regression revealed that students from well-off households were more likely to have higher marks in English Language Comprehension (OR=8.28, 95%CI: 1.49, 45.91), Writing (OR=25.02, 95%CI: 2.36, 265.69) and Mathematics (OR=7.79, 95% CI:
1.44, 42.11). Female students showed high odds to pass English Language Comprehension (OR=3.47, 95% CI: 1.49, 8.16) and Writing (OR=4.16, 95%CI: 1.51, 11.45) compared to male students. Conclusion: This study unveiled that gender and low household income results in the low achievement in students’ academic. Therefore, for the upcom- ing intervention programmes should focusing more on helping students from poor households in order to enhance students’ academic performance.

Matched MeSH terms: Schools
Fulltext Association of socio-demographics and home food environment factors on body weight status among primary school children

Rina Syahira Rathuan, Nurzalinda Zalbahar, Norhasmah Sulaiman

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2020;16(106):19-25.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Obesity in children is a global epidemic issue. Home food environment is an important aspect that may influence children’s body weight status. The aim of this study is to identify the association between socio-de- mographics and home food environment (HFE) factors with body weight status in primary school children in Bangi, Selangor. Methods: There were 398 children (43.5% males and 56.5% females) aged 7-11 years old (mean age of 9.04±1.41 years) and their parents (66.6% mothers and 33.4% fathers) from eight randomly selected primary schools participated in this study. Parents were asked to complete a self-administered questionnaire on socio-demograph- ic background, feeding practices and food availability, while children were interviewed to obtain information on parental styles and physical activity level. Weight and height of children were assessed, and BMI-for-age z-score (BAZ) was calculated by using WHO Anthroplus Software. Results: Overweight and obesity prevalence was 17.8% and 13.1% respectively. A majority of the parents (61.3%) in this study practiced authoritative parenting style. The increased odds of childhood obesity has been found to be associated with an increasing age (OR=1.239, p

Matched MeSH terms: Schools
Comparison of knowledge level and attitude towards obstructive sleep apnoea amongst dental and medical undergraduate students of Universiti Sains Malaysia

Selvaraj S, Eusufzai SZ, Asif JA, Bin Jamayet N, Ahmad WMAW, Alam MK

Work, 2021;69(1):173-180.
PMID: 33998580 DOI: 10.3233/WOR-213466

BACKGROUND: Sleep apnoea is a diagnosed condition in which appurtenances interrupt breathing whilst sleeping. The consequence of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) includes road traffic accidents due to drowsiness, systemic hypertension, heart disease, diabetes mellitus and neurocognitive disorders. This condition extends the duration of recovery phase after traumatic brain injury.
OBJECTIVE: This study was intended to assess the knowledge and attitude towards OSA and compare it among dental and medical undergraduate students of University Sains Malaysia (USM).
METHODS: In this study, a total of 216 clinical undergraduate students (36 from each year; 108 from medical and 108 from dental school) of University Sains Malaysia (USM) Health campus were recruited for the study by non-probability stratified random sampling method. Total study period was October 2017 to October 2018. A self-administered questionnaire was used to assess the sociodemographic status and OSAKA questionnaire was used to assess knowledge and attitude regarding sleep apnoea of the respondents. Descriptive analysis was carried out to assess the knowledge and attitude of OSA amongst dental and medical undergraduate students of USM. The Mann-Whitney U test was carried out to compare the knowledge and attitude of OSA amongst dental and medical undergraduate students of USM.
RESULTS: Our study findings revealed that 0.9 %and 6.5 %of the dental undergraduate students and medical undergraduate students could answer all the questions correctly regarding knowledge of OSA. Based on the assessment of the difference between medical and dental students in terms of knowledge towards OSA patients, significant difference was observed at the significance level of 95%, where p

Matched MeSH terms: Schools, Dental
Fulltext Associations of sociodemographic factors and body image with body weight status among Yemeni adolescents in Selangor and Putrajaya, Malaysia

Abdulwali Ali Mareh, Zuriati Ibrahim, Faisal Ali, Ahmed Al-Shahethi, Hazizi Abu Saad

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2020;16(106):63-68.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Despite the high prevalence of malnutrition in Yemen, little is known on malnourished Yemeni adoles- cents in Malaysia. This study aimed to assess the body weight status among Yemeni adolescents in Malaysia and its association with sociodemographic factors and body image. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 364 Yemeni adolescents aged between 12 to 18 years were recruited from four schools in Selangor and Putrajaya, Malaysia. So- ciodemographic factors and body image data were collected through face to face interview. Height and body weight were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Results: The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 23.6%, with 5.2% of thinness. Multivariable logistic regression revealed that a family income greater than RM5,001 (OR = 3.77, p = 0.004), body shape dissatisfaction (OR = 3.54, p = 0.001) and perception of overweight/obesity (OR
= 5.75, p = 0.001) were associated with an increased risk of being overweight and obese. Whereas a positive per- ception of underweight (OR = 0.23, p = 0.009) was found to be a significant protective factor against overweight and obesity. Conclusion: Overweight and obesity are prevalent among Yemeni adolescents in Malaysia. These findings highlight the need for regular weight status assessments amongst adolescents. Additionally, an obesity intervention program that incorporates body image perception may improve the children’s body weight status.

Matched MeSH terms: Schools

Filters

Please provide feedback to Administrator (afdal@afpm.org.my)

External Links