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Fulltext Food Security and Hygiene Practice among Adolescent Girls in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Borno State, Nigeria

Charles Shapu R, Ismail S, Ahmad N, Lim PY, Abubakar Njodi I

Foods, 2020 Sep 10;9(9).
PMID: 32927593 DOI: 10.3390/foods9091265

Inadequate food security contributes to poor health outcome for all, including adolescent girls. The study aims at determining the level of food security and hygiene among adolescent girls. A school-based cross-sectional study was carried out among adolescent girls aged 10 to 19 years old from six schools in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Borno State. The instrument for data collection was a questionnaire using KoBoCollect Toolbox between June and July 2019. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the predictors of food security and hygiene among respondents. A majority of the respondents (73.5%) were in a very low food security level. Three factors were significantly associated with food security level, these included schools (p = 0.007), age of mother (p = 0.004), and occupation of mother (p < 0.001). School (p = 0.003), age (father p = 0.017; mother; p = 0.012), hygiene (p = 0.005), and occupation of mother (p = 0.002) were predictors of food security. About (46.6%) of respondents had poor hygiene practice, school (p = 0.016) was significantly associated with hygiene practice. School (p = 0.019; and p = 0.005) and food security (p = 0.009) were predictors of hygiene practice. This study reveals a high prevalence of low food security among adolescent girls.

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
Fulltext Trends in Prevalence of Tobacco Use by Sex and Socioeconomic Status in 22 Sub-Saharan African Countries, 2003-2019

Sreeramareddy CT, Acharya K

JAMA Netw Open, 2021 12 01;4(12):e2137820.
PMID: 34878548 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.37820

Importance: Tobacco companies have shifted their marketing and production to sub-Saharan African countries, which are in an early stage of the tobacco epidemic.
Objective: To estimate changes in the prevalence of current tobacco use and socioeconomic inequalities among male and female participants from 22 sub-Saharan African countries from 2003 to 2019.
Design, Setting, and Participants: Secondary data analyses were conducted of sequential Demographic and Health Surveys in 22 sub-Saharan African countries including male and female participants aged 15 to 49 years. The baseline surveys (2003-2011) and the most recent surveys (2011-2019) were pooled.
Exposures: Household wealth index and highest educational level were the markers of inequality.
Main Outcomes and Measures: Sex-specific absolute and relative changes in age-standardized prevalence of current tobacco use in each country and absolute and relative measures of inequality using pooled data.
Results: The survey samples included 428 197 individuals (303 232 female participants [70.8%]; mean [SD] age, 28.6 [9.8] years) in the baseline surveys and 493 032 participants (348 490 female participants [70.7%]; mean [SD] age, 28.5 [9.4] years) in the most recent surveys. Both sexes were educated up to primary (35.7%) or secondary school (40.0%). The prevalence of current tobacco use among male participants ranged from 6.1% (95% CI, 5.2%-6.9%) in Ghana to 38.3% (95% CI, 35.8%-40.8%) in Lesotho in the baseline surveys and from 4.5% (95% CI, 3.7%-5.3%) in Ghana to 46.0% (95% CI, 43.2%-48.9%) in Lesotho during the most recent surveys. The decrease in prevalence ranged from 1.5% (Ghana) to 9.6% (Sierra Leone). The World Health Organization target of a 30% decrease in smoking was achieved among male participants in 8 countries: Rwanda, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Benin, Liberia, Tanzania, Burundi, and Cameroon. For female participants, the number of countries having a prevalence of smoking less than 1% increased from 9 in baseline surveys to 16 in the most recent surveys. The World Health Organization target of a 30% decrease in smoking was achieved among female participants in 15 countries: Cameroon, Namibia, Mozambique, Mali, Liberia, Nigeria, Burundi, Tanzania, Malawi, Kenya, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, and Zambia. For both sexes, the prevalence of tobacco use and the decrease in prevalence of tobacco use were higher among less-educated individuals and individuals with low income. In both groups, the magnitude of inequalities consistently decreased, and its direction remained the same. Absolute inequalities were 3-fold higher among male participants, while relative inequalities were nearly 2-fold higher among female participants.
Conclusions and Relevance: Contrary to a projected increase, tobacco use decreased in most sub-Saharan African countries. Persisting socioeconomic inequalities warrant the stricter implementation of tobacco control measures to reach less-educated individuals and individuals with low income.

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
Fulltext Pulmonary non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections: current state and future management

Chin KL, Sarmiento ME, Alvarez-Cabrera N, Norazmi MN, Acosta A

Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis, 2020 May;39(5):799-826.
PMID: 31853742 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-019-03771-0

Currently, there is a trend of increasing incidence in pulmonary non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections (PNTM) together with a decrease in tuberculosis (TB) incidence, particularly in developed countries. The prevalence of PNTM in underdeveloped and developing countries remains unclear as there is still a lack of detection methods that could clearly diagnose PNTM applicable in these low-resource settings. Since non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are environmental pathogens, the vicinity favouring host-pathogen interactions is known as important predisposing factor for PNTM. The ongoing changes in world population, as well as socio-political and economic factors, are linked to the rise in the incidence of PNTM. Development is an important factor for the improvement of population well-being, but it has also been linked, in general, to detrimental environmental consequences, including the rise of emergent (usually neglected) infectious diseases, such as PNTM. The rise of neglected PNTM infections requires the expansion of the current efforts on the development of diagnostics, therapies and vaccines for mycobacterial diseases, which at present, are mainly focused on TB. This review discuss the current situation of PNTM and its predisposing factors, as well as the efforts and challenges for their control.

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
Fulltext Health Education Intervention as an Effective Means for Prevention of Respiratory Infections Among Hajj Pilgrims: A Review

Goni MD, Hasan H, Wan-Arfah N, Naing NN, Deris ZZ, Arifin WN, et al.

Front Public Health, 2020;8:449.
PMID: 33014965 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.00449

The prevalence of respiratory illness has continued to surge among Hajj pilgrims from different countries despite having some practices of preventive measures. Respiratory illnesses during Hajj could be due to many reasons and many factors that promote disease spread. These factors include overcrowding, cigarette smoking, and direct contact with infectious agents particularly viruses promote the spread of respiratory infections. However, due to the longer duration of the pilgrimage, there are high chances of pilgrims contracting various respiratory illnesses due to exposure to respiratory pathogens. Hajj pilgrims' knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward respiratory tract infections are used as the determinant of the effectiveness of the health education interventions. Knowledge and application of basic hygiene principles, use of face masks, following cough etiquettes, engaging in social distancing, and engaging in other measures are highly important. In this paper, we reviewed the various effective intervention strategies implemented to help prevent respiratory tract infections during Hajj.

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
Fulltext Thalassemia among blood donors at the Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia

Rosline H, Ahmed SA, Al-Joudi FS, Rapiaah M, Naing NN, Adam NA

Southeast Asian J. Trop. Med. Public Health, 2006 May;37(3):549-52.
PMID: 17120978

The aim of this study was to screen and identify the types of thalassemia among blood donors at the Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia (HUSM). Thalassemia screening was performed by hemoglobin electrophoresis. A total number of 80 blood samples were obtained from donors at the Transfusion Medicine Unit, HUSM. The ethnic origins of the donors were Malays (n=73, 91.3%) and non-Malays (n=7, 8.75%). Males comprised 88.1% of the donors. Thalassemia was detected in 16.25% (n=13) of the blood donors. Of those with thalassemia, 46.2% (6/13) were anemic. Microcytosis and hypochromia were detected in 84.6% (n=l1) and 84.6% (n=l1) of these donors, respectively. The types of thalassemias detected were Hb E, 11.25% (n=9/80) and beta thalassemia trait, 5% (n=4/80). Among the thalassemias detected, the Hb E hemoglobinopathy was comprised of Hb E/ alpha-thalassemia (38.5%: n=5), Hb E /beta-thalassemia (23.1%: n=3), Hb E trait (7.6%: n=1) and beta-thalassemia (30.8%: n=4). In conclusion, screening for thalassemia trait should be included as part of a standard blood testing before blood donation. Further studies are required to look at the effects of donated thalassemic blood.

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
Fulltext Sleep quality among pre-clinical medical students in Universiti Putra Malaysia and Universiti Malaya, Malaysia

Ngu ST, Masalamany K, Abd Manan N, Adam SK

Education in Medicine Journal, 2017;9(3):23-31.
MyJurnal DOI: 10.21315/eimj2017.9.3.3

Introduction: Poor sleep quality among university students has become an important issue to be concerned as it can hugely influence the students especially on their academic performance. However, there are inadequate studies published on the sleep quality of medical students in Malaysia.
Objective: This study aimed at determining the sleep quality of pre-clinical medical students in Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) and Universiti Malaya (UM). Methods: This is a cross-sectional study that used self-administered questionnaire to collect data from the pre-clinical medical students
of UPM and UM. Sleep quality of the students was measured using Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire. All data were analysed by SPSS version 21.
Results: Findings revealed that 63.9% respondents with poor sleep quality (PSQI score: more than 5). The prevalence of poor sleepers
in UM (67%) was slightly higher compared to UPM (60.9%). However, the comparison of PSQI score showed no significant difference between UPM and UM respondents (p = 0.082). Meanwhile, the average sleep duration per night among respondents was 5 hours 39 minutes (± 1.21 hrs), whereas
only 6.1% students practiced recommended sleep value per night (> 7 hrs). Significant association was found between caffeine intake and sleep quality. Besides, this present study showed no association between sleep quality with gender and year of study.
Conclusion: Majority of the pre-clinical students in UPM and UM had poor sleep quality and short sleep duration. Only a small number of students practiced recommended sleep value per night.

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
Fulltext Cross-Cultural Adaptation And Validation Of The Bahasa Malaysia Version Of The Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (Ede-Q)

Ramli, M., Jamaiyah, H., Noor Azimah, M., Khairani, O., Adam, B.

Malaysian Journal of Psychiatry, 2008;17(2):1-8.
MyJurnal

Introduction: As eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and others are generally becoming more prevalent, it is essential to have a culturally accepted and locally validated questionnaire that is able to detect abnormal eating habits. Objective: To translate the Eating Disorders Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) into Bahasa Malaysia (BM) and to determine the construct validity, reliability and other psychometric properties of the BM version. Method: Two parallel forward and backward translations were done in BM in accordance to guideline. Its validation was determined by using confirmatory factor analysis among 298 secondary school children. Results: The BM EDE-Q had very good internal consistency with global Cronbach’s alpha value of 0.879. For construct validity, majority of the items managed to produce values of more than 0.4 for confirmatory factor analysis with four unforced distinct factors detected. Conclusions: Analyses of reliability and validity of this BM version of EDE-Q yielded satisfactory results. The BM version produced in this study had good psychometric properties and it is applicable to the Malaysian population. Findings indicated that cultural factors in eating habits certainly influences the effort to adapt the questionnaire within a Malaysian setting.

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
Fulltext Effect of the Prevalence of HIV/AIDS and the Life Expectancy Rate on Economic Growth in SSA Countries: Difference GMM Approach

Waziri SI, Mohamed Nor N, Raja Abdullah NM, Adamu P

Glob J Health Sci, 2016;8(4):212-20.
PMID: 26573032 DOI: 10.5539/gjhs.v8n4p212

The productivity of countries around the globe is adversely affected by the health-related problems of their labour force. This study examined the effect of the prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) and life expectancy on the economic growth of 33 Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries over a period of 11 years (2002-2012). The study employed a dynamic panel approach as opposed to the static traditional approach utilised in the literature. The dynamic approach became eminent because of the fact that HIV/AIDS is a dynamic variable as its prevalence today depends on the previous years. The result revealed that HIV/AIDS is negatively correlated with economic growth in the region, with a coefficient of 0.014, and significant at the 1% level. That is, a 10% increase in HIV/AIDS prevalence leads to a 0.14% decrease in the GDP of the region. Tackling HIV/AIDS is therefore imperative to the developing Sub-Saharan African region and all hands must be on deck to end the menace globally.

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
Fulltext Smoking among male villagers in Kampung Barambangon, Kudat, Sabah

Swe, Syed Shajee Husain, Khor Chia Kee, Nurfarinah Rais, Ofelia Petrus, Vivien Vanessa Pee Lee Xin, et al.

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2019;15(106):76-76.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Tobacco smoking is a major public health concern worldwide as it is one of the major risk factors for non-communicable diseases leading to burden of adverse health effects in their later life. According to Global Adult Tobacco Survey Malaysia (2011), 43.9% of men, 1.0% of women, and 23.1% overall currently smoked tobacco. It is important to prevent smoking uptake and promote smoking cessation to reduce the impact of tobacco smoking. The constant monitoring of the magnitude of smoking and its influencing factors is crucial for effective planning of anti-smoking programs. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of smoking and its associated factors among male villagers in Kampung Barambangon, Kudat, Sabah. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among male villagers aged 15 years and above in Kampung Barambangon, Kudat District, Sabah State. Non probability convenience sampling was employed. The study period was from March to April, 2019. Data collection was done by using pretested self-administered questionnaire and a total of 97 villagers were participated in the study. Chi-square test was used for statistical analysis. Results: The study revealed that the prevalence of smokers among male residents in Kampung Barambangon was 50.5% (95% CI: 48.6–52.1%). It was found that there were significant associations between smoking status and positive attitude towards smoking (p-value 0.001), having siblings who smoked (p value 0.001), having high percentage of friends who smoked (p-value 0.009) and high educational level (p-value 0.005). Conclusion: The prevalence of male smokers in Kampung Barambangon was higher than the national prevalence. The findings may help in understanding the magnitude of the smoking problem and its associated factors which can be used for effective tobacco control and intervention programs.

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
Fulltext Effect of HIV and malaria parasites co-infection on immune-hematological profiles among patients attending anti-retroviral treatment (ART) clinic in Infectious Disease Hospital Kano, Nigeria

Jegede FE, Oyeyi TI, Abdulrahman SA, Mbah HA, Badru T, Agbakwuru C, et al.

PLoS One, 2017;12(3):e0174233.
PMID: 28346490 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0174233

BACKGROUND: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and malaria co-infection may present worse health outcomes in the tropics. Information on HIV/malaria co-infection effect on immune-hematological profiles is critical for patient care and there is a paucity of such data in Nigeria.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate immune-hematological profiles among HIV infected patients compared to HIV/malaria co-infected for ART management improvement.
METHODS: This was a cross sectional study conducted at Infectious Disease Hospital, Kano. A total of 761 consenting adults attending ART clinic were randomly selected and recruited between June and December 2015. Participants' characteristics and clinical details including two previous CD4 counts were collected. Venous blood sample (4ml) was collected in EDTA tube for malaria parasite diagnosis by rapid test and confirmed with microscopy. Hematological profiles were analyzed by Sysmex XP-300 and CD4 count by Cyflow cytometry. Data was analyzed with SPSS 22.0 using Chi-Square test for association between HIV/malaria parasites co-infection with age groups, gender, ART, cotrimoxazole and usage of treated bed nets. Mean hematological profiles by HIV/malaria co-infection and HIV only were compared using independent t-test and mean CD4 count tested by mixed design repeated measures ANOVA. Statistical significant difference at probability of <0.05 was considered for all variables.
RESULTS: Of the 761 HIV infected, 64% were females, with a mean age of ± (SD) 37.30 (10.4) years. Prevalence of HIV/malaria co-infection was 27.7% with Plasmodium falciparum specie accounting for 99.1%. No statistical significant difference was observed between HIV/malaria co-infection in association to age (p = 0.498) and gender (p = 0.789). A significantly (p = 0.026) higher prevalence (35.2%) of co-infection was observed among non-ART patients compared to (26%) ART patients. Prevalence of co-infection was significantly lower (20.0%) among cotrimoxazole users compared to those not on cotrimoxazole (37%). The same significantly lower co-infection prevalence (22.5%) was observed among treated bed net users compared to those not using treated bed nets (42.9%) (p = 0.001). Out of 16 hematology profiles evaluated, six showed significant difference between the two groups (i) packed cell volume (p = <0.001), (ii) mean cell volume (p = 0.005), (iii) mean cell hemoglobin concentration (p = 0.011), (iv) absolute lymphocyte count (p = 0.022), (v) neutrophil percentage count (p = 0.020) and (vi) platelets distribution width (p = <0.001). Current mean CD4 count cell/μl (349±12) was significantly higher in HIV infected only compared to co-infected (306±17), (p = 0.035). A significantly lower mean CD4 count (234.6 ± 6.9) was observed among respondents on ART compared to non-ART (372.5 ± 13.2), p<0.001, mean difference = -137.9).
CONCLUSION: The study revealed a high burden of HIV and malaria co-infection among the studied population. Co-infection was significantly lower among patients who use treated bed nets as well as cotrimoxazole chemotherapy and ART. Six hematological indices differed significantly between the two groups. Malaria and HIV co-infection significantly reduces CD4 count. In general, to achieve better management of all HIV patients in this setting, diagnosing malaria, prompt antiretroviral therapy, monitoring CD4 and some hematology indices on regular basis is critical.

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
A single centre experience of metabolic syndrome and endometrial carcinoma: 5 years review

Shafiee MN, Razak N, Ahmad MF, Abd Aziz N, Adeeb N

J Obstet Gynaecol, 2021 Feb;41(2):285-289.
PMID: 33258710 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2020.1819210

Endometrial cancer (EC) has been found to have a strong association with overweight and obesity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the link between metabolic syndrome and EC among patients. A total of 119 patients with histologically confirmed EC were recruited. About 102 cases of endometrioid carcinoma (Type I) and serous (n = 7), clear cell (n = 3) and carcinosarcoma (n = 7) were the Type II. Metabolic syndrome was significantly associated with increased risk of Type I EC (OR = 3.43, 95% CI = 1.12-10.46, p .05). Metabolic syndrome was positively associated with an increased risk of Type I EC with obesity being the most influential risk factor.Impact statementWhat already known on this subject? Endometrial cancer (EC) is one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide and have a strong association with overweight and obesity of at least 40%, but there is conflicting evidence of an association of EC with metabolic syndrome (MS).What result of this study add? This study evaluated the link between EC and MS, such as high blood pressure, BMI, fasting blood sugar, triglyceride, Hyper Density Lipoprotein (HDL).What implications are of these findings for clinical practice & further research? Type I EC had and association with MS with obesity is the most potent risk factor. As the prevalence of metabolic syndrome is alarmingly high among adult Malaysians, the incidence of EC is projected to increase in the coming years. Proactive preventative measures and intervention essential for reducing the incidence of endometrial cancers. Future research to clarify the association between metabolic syndrome and endometrial cancer survival and to investigate other lifestyle factors that may affect the prognosis is needed.

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among assembly workers in Malaysia

Roseni Abdul Aziz, Mat Rebi Abdul Rani, Jafri Mohd Rohani, Ademola James Adeyemi

Journal of Occupational Safety and Health, 2014;11(1):33-38.
MyJurnal

Studies have identified working postures as a major risk factors associated with Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) in industries. This study investigated the prevalence of WMSD among assembly workers in Malaysia and how psychosocial factors such as personal values and workers relationship with family and superior are associated with discomfort and pain. A survey was conducted among 127 workers at assembly process in the manufacturing industry. The workers were aged 28.74±6.74 years and 64.6% of them were males. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to determine the effect of workplace factors on WMSD at different body regions. Spearman’s rank correlation was used to investigate association between psychosocial factors and occurrence of discomfort and pain. Only occupation and job activities revealed any significant different with WMSD in the major body regions while there was no significant difference in gender, age and work duration classifications. Shoulder painis the most prevalent in terms of frequency and intensity of occurrence. Psychosocial issues that have to do with person values, effect of job on family relationship and workers rapport with superiors are all found to be associated with the discomfort and pain among the occupational group. Employers and concerned government agencies need to take more proactive steps in tackling the problem as the occurrence of WMSD will have a significant effect on the overall wellbeing of the working population.

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
Fulltext Comparison and prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among workforce in Malaysia

Rebi, M.A.M., Zein, R.M., Aziz, R.A., Tamilselvan, H.K., Azis, N.A., Mali, M.N., et al.

Journal of Occupational Safety and Health, 2015;12(1):133-136.
MyJurnal

This study is carried out to establish the prevalence of Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD) among
the Malaysian workforce population in order to propose some measures to benefit the people at large. Secondary data
from three studies among drivers, clerical workers using visual display terminals (VDT) and fabrication workers were
used to report the prevalence of MSDs and the associated risk factors. The study identified high prevalence of MSDs in
multiple body regions. The MSD occurrence was also significantly associated with psychosocial factors. There is need
for organisations to consider such factors in work design, which will reduce the high prevalence and high financial
implications associated with MSDs among workers.

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
Fulltext Worldwide increased prevalence of human adenovirus type 3 (HAdV-3) respiratory infections is well correlated with heterogeneous hypervariable regions (HVRs) of hexon

Haque E, Banik U, Monwar T, Anthony L, Adhikary AK

PLoS One, 2018;13(3):e0194516.
PMID: 29590206 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0194516

Human adenovirus type 3 (HAdV-3) respiratory infections occurs worldwide in both children and adults, leading to severe morbidity and mortality, particularly in the paediatric age group and especially in neonates. During HAdV infection, neutralizing antibodies are formed against the epitopes located in the hyper variable regions (HVRs) of the hexon protein. These neutralizing antibodies provide protection against reinfection by viruses of the same type. Therefore it is reasonable to speculate that variations of HAdV-3 in the HVRs could impair the immunity acquired by previous infection with a different strain with variation in its HVRs. HAdV-3 has recently become the major agent of acute respiratory infection worldwide, being responsible for 15% to 87% of all adenoviral respiratory infections. However, despite the increased prevalence of HAdV-3 as respiratory pathogen, the diversity of hexon proteins in circulating strains remains unexplored. This study was designed to explore the variation in HVRs of hexon among globally distributed strains of HAdV-3 as well as to discover possible relationship among them, thus possibly shedding light on the cause for the increased prevalence of HAdV-3. In this study, for the first time we analysed the hexon proteins of all 248 available strains of HAdV-3 from the NCBI database and compared them with those of the HAdV-3 prototype (GB stain). We found that the HVRs of HAdV-3 strains circulating worldwide were highly heterogeneous and have been mutating continuously since -their original isolation. Based on their immense heterogeneity, the strains can be categorized into 25 hexon variants (3Hv-1 to 3Hv-25), 4 of which (3Hv-1 to 3Hv-4) comprises 80% of the strains. This heterogeneity may explain why HAdV-3 has become the most prevalent HAdVs type worldwide. The heterogeneity of hexon proteins also shows that the development of a vaccine against HAdV-3 might be challenging. The data on hexon variants provided here may be useful for the future epidemiological study of HAdV-3 infection.

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
Fulltext Predictors of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Among Middle-Aged Iranians

Etminani R, Manaf ZA, Shahar S, Azadbakht L, Adibi P

Int J Prev Med, 2020;11:113.
PMID: 33088441 DOI: 10.4103/ijpvm.IJPVM_274_19

Background: The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasing worldwide. Therefore, we sought to determine the most important predictors of NAFLD among middle-aged men and women in Isfahan, Iran.
Methods: A total of 413 individuals (163 men and 250 women) aged 30-60 years were selected by stratified random sampling. The participants had safe alcohol consumption habits (<2 drinks/day) and no symptoms of hepatitis B and C. NAFLD was diagnosed through ultrasound. Blood pressure, anthropometric, and body composition measurements were made and liver function tests were conducted. Biochemical assessments, including the measurement of fasting blood sugar (FBS) and ferritin levels, as well as lipid profile tests were also performed. Metabolic syndrome was evaluated according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria.
Results: The overall prevalence of ultrasound-diagnosed NAFLD was 39.3%. The results indicated a significantly higher prevalence of NAFLD in men than in women (42.3% vs 30.4%; P < 0.05). Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the significant variables as NAFLD predictors. Overall, male gender, high body mass index (BMI), high alanine aminotransferase (ALT), high FBS, and high ferritin were identified as the predictors of NAFLD. The only significant predictors of NAFLD among men were high BMI and high FBS. These predictors were high BMI, high FBS, and high ferritin in women (P < 0.05 for all variables).
Conclusions: The metabolic profile can be used for predicting NAFLD among men and women. BMI, FBS, ALT, and ferritin are the efficient predictors of NAFLD and can be used for NAFLD screening before liver biopsy.

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
Fulltext Periodontal Health of Pre-Dialysis Chronic Kidney Disease Patients in a Northeast Peninsular Malaysia Tertiary Hospital

Ibrahim HA, Kassim NK, Jamsari FZ, Zainuddin SLA, Hanafi MH, Adnan AS

Malays J Med Sci, 2020 Feb;27(1):106-114.
PMID: 32158350 MyJurnal DOI: 10.21315/mjms2020.27.1.11

Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with periodontal disease due to its hyperinflammatory state. Limited studies have explored the prevalence of periodontal disease among CKD patients in Malaysia.
Objective: To assess the periodontal status of pre-dialysis CKD patients in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia.
Methods: A total of 46 pre-dialysis CKD patients who attended the nephrology clinic at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia were enrolled in this study. Periodontal examination was performed using the periodontal probing depth (PPD), clinical attachment loss (CAL) and plaque index.
Results: The majority of the CKD patients were Malay (95.7%) and 80.4% were males. The mean age of the patients was 58.5 years. Using PPD measurement, 37 (74.0%) of the patients had mild periodontitis, 9 (20.0%) had moderate periodontitis and 3 (6.0%) had no periodontitis. Based on CAL measurement, 12 (26%) patients had mild periodontitis, 29 (63.0%) had moderate periodontitis and 5 (11%) had severe periodontitis. The mean (standard deviation [SD]) value of mild and moderate-to-severe periodontitis by PPD measurement were 4.26 (0.26) and 5.24 (0.36), respectively. The mean of mild and moderate-to-severe periodontitis by CAL measurement were 2.66 (0.62) and 4.98 (0.73), respectively. There was no correlation between the periodontal parameters and estimated glomerular filtration rate (PPD: r = -0.160, P = 0.914; CAL: r = -0.135, P = 0.372; plaque index: r = 0.005, P = 0.974).
Conclusion: This study revealed a greater prevalence and severity of chronic periodontitis among CKD patients. Thus, the periodontal health of CKD patients' needs to be screened and monitored.

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
Dental caries experience of 7 to 12-year old West Malaysian aborigines (Temuan tribe)

Abdul Kadir R, Adnan NM

Odontostomatol Trop, 1989 Mar;12(1):7-11.
PMID: 2631083

A preliminary survey on sixty-nine 7 to 12 year old Temuan tribe school children living some 30 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur was conducted. The examinations were carried out using a chair-table set up with natural daylight as the source of light. The DMF index of klein, Palmer and Knutson was used to assess the dental caries status. In spite of low fluoride content in their water supply, the findings revealed a generally low prevalence of caries experience (DMFT 1.26). The highest DMFT was in the 11 year olds. The relationship between these findings and their possible causes are discussed.

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
Fulltext Association between awkward posture and musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) among assembly line workers in an automotive industry

Anita, A.R., Yazdani, A., Hayati, K.S., Adon, M.Y.

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2014;10(1):23-28.
MyJurnal

Automotive industry in Malaysia is one of the booming industries which encompass the design, development and manufacturing of motor vehicles. However, it has its own setback as the interaction between complex tools, machines, and instruments, coupled with humans as workers pose several health hazards. A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) and the association with awkward posture among automotive assembly line workers. A simple random sampling method was adopted and data were collected based on Standardized Nordic Questionnaire (SNQ) and Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) method for analysing awkward posture. With a response rate of 83%, a total of 232 assembly line workers with at least one year job tenure participated in this study. The findings revealed that 78.4% of workers reported MSD while the highest percentage of complaints concerned the lower back (50.9%). Three factors were found to be significantly associated with MSD: age (χ2=5.61, p=0.018), job tenure (χ2= 8.26, p=0.004) and awkward posture (χ2= 65.37, p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis indicated that significant risk factors for MSD symptoms were workers aged ≥ 25 years old (OR= 2.25, 95%CI 1.14-4.46) and those workers with equal and more than three years job tenure (OR= 2.44, 95%CI 1.04-5.63). In addition, workers in the very high and high RULA action level who were 69 times (OR = 69.38, 95%CI 14.51- 331.73) and 12 times (OR = 12.42, 95%CI 5.21-29.58), respectively, also had higher odds of complaints of MSD. The high prevalence of MSD shows that MSD symptoms is a significant problem among automotive assembly line workers while age, job tenure and awkward posture based on RULA action level are the significant factors for MSD. In particular, this study proves that the prevalence of MSD increases as the RULA action level and job tenure increases. Thus, this problem could be reduced by decreasing RULA action level through appropriate ergonomic workstation design and ergonomic training for workers.

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
Fulltext Increasing percentage of preschool children receiving dental treatment at kindergartens in Machang District

Nor Azee Azwa Kamarudin, Afifah Adilah Asshaari

Q Bulletin, 2020;1(29):46-55.
MyJurnal

Preschool children are one of the major target groups of the Oral Health Program, Ministry of Health Malaysia. However, caries prevalence of preschool children due to unmet treatment needs remains high. Thus, it is imperative for preschool children to receive dental treatment to maintain or restore function and aesthetics, prevent premature tooth loss and improve their quality of life. We aimed to increase the percentage of preschool children receiving dental treatment at kindergartens from 9.8% to 30% in a year. A cross-sectional study was conducted in January 2015 to March 2015 to identify factors contributing to low percentage of preschool children receiving dental treatment using a structured questionnaire modified and adapted from literatures. Ten kindergartens in Machang District were randomly selected, and a total of 200 preschool children, 180 parents and 13 dental therapists in Machang District were recruited for this study. Remedial measures were implemented in April 2015 until September 2015, followed by a post-remedial evaluation in October 2015 to December 2019. The factors contributing to low percentage included inconvenient visit schedule, lack of monitoring system, preschool children at kindergartens refusing dental treatment, and lack of oral health knowledge and awareness among parents. A series of interventions were introduced including improvement of care process, systematic planned visits, and formation of a dedicated team for kindergartens. Oral Health Education and seminars were given to parents. Supportive environment and innovations were created, including colorful attire, cartoon accessories and Benzo Kids’ eye-wear tools. The Benzo Kids functioned as a smart phone holder for a child to watch their favourite video during treatment to divert the child’s attention and reduce anxiety. The percentage of preschool children receiving dental treatment at kindergartens increased from 9.8% (2014) to 55.9% (2019), which exceeded the initial target of 30%. This study has had a significant impact on the number of deciduous teeth with dental caries of these preschool children when they progress to primary one. The HMIS data showed a decreasing trend of dental caries per 100 children from 80(2013) to 58(2019).

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence
Fulltext Physical and mental health problems of the elderly in a rural community of Sepang, Selangor

Mohd Sidik S, Rampal L, Afifi M

Malays J Med Sci, 2004 Jan;11(1):52-9.
PMID: 22977360 MyJurnal

The prevalence of aging population is increasing not only in developed countries, but also in developing countries like Malaysia. The aim of this study was: (1) to determine the prevalence of physical and mental health problems, and (2) to determine the association of these health problems with socio demographic factors among the elderly in a rural community in Sepang, Selangor. A cross sectional study design was used. Five out of nine villages were selected via random sampling. The elderly in the selected villages were interviewed using a pre-tested structured questionnaire which included the GDS-30, ECAQ and Barthel Index. Out of 263 elderly residents (6.2% of the total population), 223 agreed to participate in the study giving a response rate of 84.8%. The mean age of the respondents was 69.7 + 6.8 years with a median of 68 years. The prevalence of physical health problems such as chronic illness and functional dependence were 60.1% and 15.7%, respectively. While the prevalence of mental health problems such as depression and cognitive impairment were 7.6% and 22.4%, respectively. Among the health problems studied, depression was found to be significantly associated with unemployment (p<0.05), where as cognitive impairment was significantly associated with age, gender, ethnicity, marital status and level of education (p<0.05).

Matched MeSH terms: Prevalence

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