Healthline
type: channel
description: <span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;">“Healthline” journal is a peer reviewed official publication of Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine - Gujarat Chapter (IAPSM-GC). It is an indexed medical journal (in DOAJ, Index Copernicus, OPENJGATE, CABI, OpenAIRE and Index Medicus-SEAR) published quarterly. The “Healthline” aims to promote quality research in the field of Community Medicine and Public health.
publisher: IAPSM-GC
language: en
publication name: Healthline
issn: 2229-337X
copyright: <p style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; color: #444444; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><img src="[binary]" /> <p style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; color: #444444; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Articles in "Healthline Journal" are Open Access articles. The license permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium for non-commercial purposes only, provided the original work and source is properly cited, and the new creations are licensed under the identical terms.
items: Assessment of Patient Satisfaction in Outpatient Department of PHCs in a Surendranagar District: A Cross-Sectional Study
items: Frailty and its Determinants among Elderly People of Rural Tamil Nadu - A Cross-Sectional Study
items: Pattern and Severity of Substance Use Disorder among Patients Seeking Treatment at De-addiction Centres in District Amritsar, Punjab
items: A Cross-Sectional Study of Diabetes Mellitus Profile among Bus Drivers of Surat City Depot, Gujarat, India
items: Brewing Epidemic of Research Publications in Medical Colleges: Critical Commentary
items: Knowledge of Rabies and Wound Care after Animal Bite among Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) in Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC): A Cross-Sectional Study
items: A Cross-Sectional Study of Input-Output Performance of Health Facilities Under LaQshya: Evidence from Western Gujarat, India
items: Tuberculosis Preventive Therapy Adherence and Factors Associated with it among Household Contacts of Tuberculosis Patients in Western Uttar Pradesh: A Prospective study
items: Quality of Life among Patients with Neuropathic Pain Attending Outpatient Department of a Tertiary Care Hospital, Kolkata, India
items: Adult Vaccination among Diabetic Patients: An Assessment of Awareness, Coverage and Acceptance in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Kolkata, India
items: A Cross-Sectional Study on Consumption of Iron and Folic Acid Supplements and its Determinants among Women During Pregnancy in Rural Punjab, India
items: A Mixed-method Study on Coping Mechanism among Caregivers of Thalassemia Patients Attending A Tertiary Care Hospital in West Bengal, India
items: Assessment of Practices Regarding Hepatitis B Infection and Its Prevention among Undergraduate Students of a Government Medical College in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India
items: Resilience among the Undergraduate Students in a Medical College in Kolkata: A Cross-Sectional Study
items: Facilitators and Barriers of Service Utilization in the Ayushman Arogya Mandirs of Tripura: A Qualitative Study
items: Association Between Prior Tuberculosis History and Treatment Outcomes in Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis Patients Receiving Bedaquiline-Based Therapy: Prospective Observational Study from Western India
items: Integrity in Research – The Cornerstone of Trust in Science
items: Perceptions and Effect of Mentoring of MBBS Students in a Peripheral Medical College of West Bengal
items: A Study on Occupational Correlates for Workplace Wellbeing, Morbidities and Occupational Health and Safety Vulnerability Measures amongst Diamond Workers In Surat
items: Perceptions and Challenges of Health Personnel in Managing Animal Bite Cases at a Rural Health Training Centre (RHTC) of Medical College in Ahmedabad: A Qualitative Study
items: From 99DOTS to 99DOTSLite in Gujarat: A Pragmatic Leap in TB Treatment Adherence
items: Risk of Rabies and the Traveller's Health
items: Monitoring of the National Mass Drug Administration Campaign for Lymphatic Filariasis Elimination in Narmada District, Gujarat: An Experience
items: Effectiveness of an Educational Intervention on Treatment Adherence Among Hypertensive Patients in Rural Delhi
items: A Cross-Sectional Study About Household Solid Waste Management Practices Among Residents in Urban Slum Area of Mumbai
items: Consumption of High-Fat, Salt, and Sugar Foods and its Determinants Among Medical Undergraduates in North Kerala: A Cross-Sectional Study
items: Barriers and Enablers in Implementing Tele-Counselling for Postnatal Care of Low-Birth-Weight Infants in Rural India: A Qualitative Study
items: The Digital Pulse: Time to Rewire Medical Libraries in India
items: Family Caregivers’ Perspective for Cancer Care in a Tertiary Care Centre of Assam
items: Dyslipidemia and Hypertension Among Type 2 Diabetics at a Tertiary Care Hospital of South Gujarat, India

Assessment of Patient Satisfaction in Outpatient Department of PHCs in a Surendranagar District: A Cross-Sectional Study
type: item
description: Introduction: The Bhore Committee (1946) proposed the Primary Health Centre (PHC) as the fundamental unit of the public health system, providing comprehensive care to rural populations, focusing on preventive and promotive aspects. PHC services should be comprehensive, accessible, acceptable, community-driven, and affordable. Patient satisfaction reflects their experience and attitude toward the quality of services provided. Objective: To assess the level of patient satisfaction with various quality-related parameters of outpatient department (OPD) at PHCs and to identify factors influencing satisfaction. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from March to August 2023 among adult patients (aged 18 and above) attending the OPD of selected PHCs in Surendranagar District, Gujarat. Twenty PHCs were selected through simple random sampling (2 from each of the 10 talukas), and 10 patients per PHC were enrolled via convenience sampling. Patients with emergency conditions, chronic illnesses, or serious health issues were excluded. Data were collected using a pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire, and analysed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 26. Results: Overall, 81% (162) of patients were satisfied with their PHC visit. Key issues reported included unavailability of doctors (68%, 22), essential medicines (74%, 20), and drinking water (89%, 9). About 16.5% (33) faced difficulty reaching the PHC. Suggestions included ensuring drug availability (47.5%, 95), posting specialist doctors (30.5%, 61), and providing ambulance services (23.5%, 47). Conclusion: The study indicates high patient satisfaction with PHC services but highlights gaps in transportation, availability of doctors and medicines, and access to drinking water and ambulance services.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Outpatient Department
  topic: keywords
subject: Patient satisfaction
  topic: keywords
subject: Primary health centre
  topic: keywords
subject: Services
  topic: keywords
creator: Saif Ali Kadri
creator: Jay Nimavat
creator: Kishor Sochaliya
creator: Pratiksha Padhiyar
creator: Pratik Jasani
creator: Premsagar Vasava
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Saif Ali S. Kadri, Jay H. Nimavat, Kishor M. Sochaliya, Pratiksha R. Padhiyar, Pratik K. Jasani, Premsagar J. Vasava (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-10-21
publication date: 2025-10-21
starting page: 221
ending page: 230
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_734_2025

Frailty and its Determinants among Elderly People of Rural Tamil Nadu - A Cross-Sectional Study
type: item
description: Introduction: Frailty is defined as a clinically recognizable state of increased vulnerability resulting from aging associated decline in reserve and function across multiple systems. Unlike chronological aging, frailty is a dynamic and potentially reversible condition if identified early. Understanding its prevalence, risk factors, and consequences is essential for developing targeted interventions that can improve quality of life, reduce healthcare costs, and promote healthy aging. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of Frailty among elderly people aged 60 years and above in a rural area of Tamil Nadu Methods: A community based cross sectional study was done in 166 elders using multistage sampling method to assess the prevalence of frailty of rural Tamil Nadu. A semi-structured pretested questionnaire was used and Frailty was measured using Fried’s phenotypic criteria. Results: The study revealed that the Prevalence of Frailty was found to be 33.1%, 54.2% were pre-frail and 12.7% were non-frail. Statistically significant association was found between prevalence of frailty and age, gender, level of education, marital status, living arrangement, economic independence and vision. Female participants were more frail (41.4%) than male participants (16.4%). This study shows 92.9% of the participants who were of age 80 years and above were frail. Conclusion: The study shows that frailty is a prevalent condition among the elderly, reflecting the growing vulnerability of this age group to adverse health outcomes. Comprehensive Geriatric Care addressing all domains of ageing must be implemented from primary health care.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Elderly
  topic: keywords
subject: Frailty
  topic: keywords
subject: Frailty, elderly, older people, Fried’s criteria
  topic: keywords
creator: Malai Ammal M
creator: Vijayakumar M
creator: Vijayalakshmi M
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Malai Ammal M, Vijayakumar M, Vijayalakshmi M (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-10-21
publication date: 2025-10-21
starting page: 201
ending page: 205
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_754_2025

Pattern and Severity of Substance Use Disorder among Patients Seeking Treatment at De-addiction Centres in District Amritsar, Punjab
type: item
description: Introduction: Worldwide substance use is a major public health problem. There are multiple socio-demographic correlates of substance use disorders. Objective: To study pattern and severity of substance use disorder (SUD) among patients seeking treatment at two de-addiction centres in Amritsar. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 203 patients with substance use disorders seeking treatment selected by total enumerative method in the time period from 25th March – 24th April,2025 using a predesigned and pretested proforma. The severity of substance use disorder was graded as Mild=2-3, Moderate= 4-5 and Severe=6+ using Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria for substance use disorder. Results: Mean age of the study participants was 36.4±11.1 years and majority (98%) were males. In order of frequency, substances used were opioids 170 (83.7%), alcohol 77 (37.9%), OTC (over the counter drugs) 42 (20.7%) and tobacco 31 (15.3%). Peer pressure was the commonest reason for the initiation of substance use. By grade, 170 (83.7%) participants had severe, 24 (11.8%) had moderate and 9 (4.5%) participants had mild grade of substance use disorder. Significant associations between severity of substance use disorder and frequency of substance use (OR= 3.61,95% CI=1.10-11.85), clinically diagnosed depression (OR=3.75, 95% CI=1.25-11.19), financial or legal issues faced due to substance use (OR =4.68, 95% CI=2.08-10.50) and current pattern of substance use (OR=4.30 95%, CI=1.50-12.32) were found. Conclusion: Sociocultural factors play a dominant role in substance use disorders. Socio-culturally relevant behaviour change communication and targeted interventions are need of the hour.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Alcohol
  topic: keywords
subject: Depression
  topic: keywords
subject: Opioid
  topic: keywords
subject: Peer pressure
  topic: keywords
subject: Substance use disorder
  topic: keywords
subject: Tobacco
  topic: keywords
creator: Priyanka Devgun
creator: Manisha Nagpal
creator: Davinder Singh Bajwa
creator: Harleen Kaur Ghara
creator: Riya Gupta
creator: Arshanpreet Kaur
creator: Brisleen Kaur
creator: Sehajpreet Kaur
creator: Ivjeet Singh Kalkat
creator: Pooja Khanna
creator: Aditya Raj Malhotra
creator: Kabir Singh Sadana
creator: Akarshit Saini
creator: Rajeshwar A Sharma
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Priyanka Devgun, Manisha Nagpal, Davinder Singh Bajwa, Harleen Kaur Ghara, Riya Gupta, Arshanpreet Kaur, Brisleen Kaur, Sehajpreet Kaur, Ivjeet Singh Kalkat, Pooja Khanna, Aditya Raj Malhotra, Kabir Singh Sadana, Akarshit Saini, Rajeshwar A Sharma (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-09-30
publication date: 2025-09-30
starting page: 183
ending page: 188
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_735_2025

A Cross-Sectional Study of Diabetes Mellitus Profile among Bus Drivers of Surat City Depot, Gujarat, India
type: item
description: Introduction: India is witnessing a growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with type 2 diabetes mellitus emerging as a major public health challenge. Gujarat, with its oil- and sugar-rich diet, ranks second nationally in diabetes prevalence. Among high-risk occupational groups, professional bus drivers are particularly vulnerable due to sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary habits, and limited physical activity. Objective: To estimate the prevalence of diabetes among bus drivers. To determine risk factors associated with diabetes. Methods: This study was conducted from May to August 2023 at two major bus depots in Surat, Gujarat. Based on the NFHS-5 prevalence of diabetes and using universal sampling, a total of 321 eligible bus drivers were included. Data were collected via a pretested, semi-structured questionnaire. Data analysis was done using SPSS v26, Epi Info v3, and Excel 2019, applying univariate and bivariate analyses. Results: The majority were aged 31–40 years 167 (52%), belonged to socioeconomic Class 2 159 (50%), and had 0–5 years of job experience 188 (58%). About 45 (14%) reported health issues, primarily hypertension 13 (29%) and diabetes 12 (27%). Diabetes prevalence was significantly associated with education (p<0.001), socioeconomic class (p=0.018), and urban residence (p=0.04). Diabetic drivers were older, had longer job tenures, and higher incomes (p<0.05). Conclusion: There were significant associations between diabetes prevalence 30 (9.3%) and factors such as age, education, waist-to-hip ratio, residence, income and job tenure
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Bus drivers
  topic: keywords
subject: Diabetes
  topic: keywords
subject: Gujarat
  topic: keywords
subject: Physical activity
  topic: keywords
creator: Pratik M Makwana
creator: Krupa R Gondaliya
creator: Sukesha P Gamit
creator: Jayant R Patel
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Pratik M Makwana, Krupa R Gondaliya, Sukesha P Gamit, Jayant R Patel (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2026-01-21
publication date: 2026-01-21
starting page: 300
ending page: 307
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_758_2025

Brewing Epidemic of Research Publications in Medical Colleges: Critical Commentary
type: item
description: Today’s medical educator/health professional educator is undergoing an identity crisis as competing priorities are thrust on him/her. Being an astute clinician, teacher (with multiple sub roles involving pedagogical and technological skills), researcher and administrator the educator is expected to deliver on all the fronts which is easier said than done. The most important determinant of recognition and reward today is scholarship of discovery and not always scholarship of teaching, integration or application which seem surreal at the least. The accreditation and ranking of an institute hinge on the number and quality of research output. There are targets set for procuring research grants and patents. This looks progressive and necessary but there are concerns which need the attention of all stakeholders.
subject: Editorials
  topic: section
subject: Editorial
  topic: category
subject: Health Professional
  topic: keywords
subject: Medical College
  topic: keywords
subject: Research Publications
  topic: keywords
creator: Manjunatha S Nagaraja
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Manjunatha S Nagaraja (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-12-31
publication date: 2025-12-31
starting page: 251
ending page: 252
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_811_2025

Knowledge of Rabies and Wound Care after Animal Bite among Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) in Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC): A Cross-Sectional Study
type: item
description: Introduction: Rabies is a vaccine preventable disease having 100% fatality. India is endemic for Rabies accounting for 36% of the world’s Rabies deaths. ASHAs are the grass root level worker who spreads awareness about Rabies and wound care after animal bite. Objectives: 1. To assess the knowledge of Rabies among ASHAs. 2. To assess the knowledge of wound care after animal bite among them. 3. To determine the association of various sociodemographic factors with knowledge of Rabies and wound care after animal bite among ASHA. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 139 ASHAs from Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation selected by stratified random sampling from 86 UPHC from September 2024 to November 2024. A self-administrating questionnaire was used. Results: The mean age of ASHAs was 43.8 ± 8.1 years and mean work experience of 11.6 ± 5.8 years. None of them had any prior training in Rabies or wound care. Dog bite (92.1%) was the commonest source recognized by the majority of participants and 82% thought Rabies is fatal. About 97.1% knew about Rabies vaccine, 20% knew the right number of doses. 62.6% believed in traditional remedies for wound care, while 76.3% knew about washing the wound with soap and water. Total knowledge score was most strongly associated with work experience (p = 0.024). Conclusion: This study identifies lack of knowledge regarding Rabies and appropriate care of wounds following animal bites among ASHA workers in Ahmedabad city suggesting the need for training.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Ahmedabad
  topic: keywords
subject: ASHA workers
  topic: keywords
subject: Rabies
  topic: keywords
creator: Vibhuti Chandera
creator: Bhavna Puwar
creator: Vaibhavi Patel
creator: Birenkumar Patel
creator: Bhavin Solanki
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Vibhuti Chandera, Bhavna Puwar, Vaibhavi Patel, Birenkumar Patel, Bhavin Solanki (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2026-01-21
publication date: 2026-01-21
starting page: 332
ending page: 338
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_799_2025

A Cross-Sectional Study of Input-Output Performance of Health Facilities Under LaQshya: Evidence from Western Gujarat, India
type: item
description: Introduction: The Government of India has implemented LaQshya initiative to improve quality of intrapartum and postpartum care in public health facilities through structured quality improvement initiatives. Yet, empirical evidence on how preparedness at facility level affects outcomes in maternal service delivery is lacking in majority of districts in Gujarat. Objective: To measure the association between input preparedness and output performance indicators of the labour rooms in public health facilities implementing LaQshya in Rajkot district, Gujarat. Methods: A cross-sectional study (March–June 2022) in eight LaQshya-notified government facilities of Rajkot assessed input readiness using a checklist adapted from LaQshya standards. Domains included infrastructure, equipment, drugs, and human resources, summarized as composite input scores. Output measures covered deliveries, caesarean rates, PPH, breastfeeding initiation, patient satisfaction, and referral delays. Descriptive analysis and Spearman’s rank correlation examined associations between facility readiness and maternal health service outcomes. Results: Composite input scores in facilities ranged from 56.2% to 89.5%. There were statistically significant positive correlations between input scores and early initiation of breastfeeding (ρ = 0.72, p = 0.043) and delivery volume (ρ = 0.61, p = 0.05). Facilities with higher input scores consistently performed better in critical maternal health outcomes. Facilities with low input scores had evidence of delays in the referral process, low patient satisfaction rates, and gaps in availability of supplies. Conclusion: Facilities with stronger LaQshya input showed better maternal outcomes, especially breastfeeding and delivery volume. Strengthening inputs in facilities with poor score may reduce maternal morbidity and improve patient satisfaction significantly.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Breast Feeding
  topic: keywords
subject: Maternal Health Services
  topic: keywords
subject: Health Facilities
  topic: keywords
subject: Quality of Health Care
  topic: keywords
creator: Gaurav B. Shukla
creator: Mahaveer G. Golechha
creator: Bharti D. Koria
creator: Mitesh N. Bhanderi
creator: Hiral A. Raval
creator: Apurva N. Ratnu
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Gaurav B. Shukla, Mahaveer G. Golechha , Bharti D. Koria, Mitesh N. Bhanderi, Hiral A. Raval, Apurva N. Ratnu (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2026-01-21
publication date: 2026-01-21
starting page: 323
ending page: 331
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_789_2025

Tuberculosis Preventive Therapy Adherence and Factors Associated with it among Household Contacts of Tuberculosis Patients in Western Uttar Pradesh: A Prospective study
type: item
description: Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health challenge, with India bearing the highest burden. Tuberculosis Preventive Therapy (TPT) is a critical strategy to prevent latent TB infection (LTBI) from progressing to active disease, particularly among household contacts (HHCs) of pulmonary TB patients. Objective: This study evaluates the completion rate and factors influencing TPT adherence in Agra district, India. Methods: A community based prospective follow up study was conducted from January 2024 to December 2024 in two randomly selected Tuberculosis Units (TU) (Lohamandi and Bichpuri) in Agra district. A total of 360 Household contacts (HHC) were enrolled in the study. Data was collected via a pilot-tested, semi-structured questionnaire based on the Programmatic Management of Tuberculosis Preventive Treatment (PMTPT) guidelines. Participants were followed for six months to assess TPT completion, adverse effects and factors influencing compliance of TPT. Results: The TPT completion rate was 55.3%, with 40.9% lost to follow-up and 3.8% discontinuing due to adverse effects. Factors significantly associated with completion included higher education, occupation, socio-economic status, regular follow-up, and awareness of TPT importance (all p<0.001). Common barriers to adherence were lack of perceived need (41.9%) and forgetfulness (38.7%). Reported side effects were minimal, including lethargy (2.8%) and skin rashes (1.1%). Conclusion: Study highlights that TPT adherence in Agra district is slightly over half hindered by low awareness and poor follow-up. Strengthening education, routine monitoring, and addressing socio-economic barriers are essential to enhancing TPT outcomes and achieving India's TB elimination target by 2025.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Adherence
  topic: keywords
subject: Household contact
  topic: keywords
subject: Latent TB infection
  topic: keywords
subject: NTEP
  topic: keywords
subject: Tuberculosis Preventive Therapy
  topic: keywords
creator: Sanghmitra Singh
creator: Geetu Singh
creator: Himalaya Singh
creator: Gajendra Vikram Singh
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Sanghmitra Singh, Geetu Singh, Himalaya Singh, Gajendra Vikram Singh (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2026-01-21
publication date: 2026-01-21
starting page: 269
ending page: 276
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_787_2025

Quality of Life among Patients with Neuropathic Pain Attending Outpatient Department of a Tertiary Care Hospital, Kolkata, India
type: item
description: Introduction: Neuropathic pain is a complex, painful condition, difficult to diagnose and treat with a negative impact on patients’ health and quality of life. Objectives: To evaluate the correlation between neuropathic pain and quality of life along with identifying the limiting aspects in the daily life of the patients suffering from it; and also, to find out association of socio-demographic factors with quality of life. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted for 3 months among 404 patients with neuropathic pain attending the outpatient department of Neuro-medicine and Physical medicine of a tertiary care teaching Hospital, Kolkata using WHO QOL-BREF Scale. Data were tabulated in MS-Excel spreadsheet, statistical analysis was done in SPSS version 26. Results: Among the study participants 264 (65.4%) were female, about 252 (62.2%) were Muslim and 372 (92.2%) were married. More than half of the study participants had poor quality of life 238 (59%) with burning 343 (93%), tingling 365 (90%) sensation. A total of 290 (72%) of the study participants were suffering from severe pain. It was found that the limiting aspect was the psychological domain. Significant association (p<0.05) was seen with age, gender, religion and education with QOL. Conclusion: Majority of the study participants had poor quality of life (59%) with the greatest impact on psychological domain after the onset of pain and presented a positive attitude for treatment towards it.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Neuropathic pain
  topic: keywords
subject: Psychological domain
  topic: keywords
subject: Quality of life
  topic: keywords
creator: Sayantani Bhunia
creator: Kuntala Ray
creator: Anindita Maiti
creator: Anindita Mondal
creator: Moumita Mandal
creator: Mausumi Basu
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Sayantani Bhunia, Kuntala Ray, Anindita Maiti, Anindita Mondal, Moumita Mandal, Mausumi Basu (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2026-01-21
publication date: 2026-01-21
starting page: 284
ending page: 290
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_765_2025

Adult Vaccination among Diabetic Patients: An Assessment of Awareness, Coverage and Acceptance in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Kolkata, India
type: item
description: Introduction: Adult vaccination is widely recognized as a highly cost-effective public health measure, despite its benefits many diabetics may not grasp their importance or have misconceptions, affecting their acceptance. The purpose of the study was to assess the awareness and to estimate the coverage and find out the level of acceptance of adult vaccination. Methods: An observational study with cross-sectional design was conducted in Diabetes OPD of tertiary care hospital in Kolkata among 423 diabetics patients using consecutive sampling methods attending Diabetic OPD for a duration 6 months (September 2023-February 2024). A pre-designed, pre-tested, structured schedule comprising of socio demographic clinical profile, awareness, coverage and acceptance of vaccine was used for face-to-face interview. Data were analysed by Microsoft Excel 2019 and SPSS v25.0. Results: Out of 423 participants more than half (57%) were male, and mean age of them were 50.7 years (±11.2). Ninety one percent (91%) of study participants had type II Diabetes Mellitus, and more than two thirds (67.4 %) suffered from co-morbidities. Thirteen percent (13%) had adequate awareness about adult vaccination and very few (7%) had administered Hepatitis B vaccine. Seventy one percent (71%) of the study participants were ready to get Influenza vaccine after being aware. Fear of adverse effects and out of pocket expenditure were the major reason from non-acceptance of vaccines. Conclusion: Eighty-seven percent (87%) of the participants had inadequate awareness about adult vaccines and only seven percent (7%) of them had taken Hepatitis B vaccination.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Awareness
  topic: keywords
subject: Coverage
  topic: keywords
subject: Diabetes Mellitus
  topic: keywords
subject: Vaccination
  topic: keywords
creator: Somnath Naskar
creator: Aparajita Mondal
creator: Ratul Kumar Bysack
creator: Mausumi Basu
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Somnath Naskar, Aparajita Mondal, Ratul Kumar Bysack, Mausumi Basu (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2026-01-21
publication date: 2026-01-21
starting page: 291
ending page: 299
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_764_2025

A Cross-Sectional Study on Consumption of Iron and Folic Acid Supplements and its Determinants among Women During Pregnancy in Rural Punjab, India
type: item
description: Introduction: Anaemia in pregnancy remains a public health problem and is an important indirect cause of maternal mortality. Iron deficiency is regarded as the most common cause of anaemia during pregnancy. World Health Organization recommends daily oral iron and folic acid (IFA) supplementation as part of antenatal care. Despite this recommendation, the use of IFA supplements is still very low in several developing countries. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of consumption of IFA supplements and to identify its determinants among women while pregnant. Methods: It was a population based cross sectional study done in rural field practice area of community medicine. Total of 370 mothers of two months to two years old children were selected by PPS sampling. Data so collected was analysed by SPSS using descriptive inferential and chi square test. Results: Prevalence of IFA consumption for 180 days or more was 56.7%. Factors like caste, socioeconomic status of family, education of respondent as well as husband, parity and knowledge about antenatal care, anaemia and IFA consumption were significantly associated with consumption of IFA supplements. Side effects, forgetfulness and lack of knowledge about duration of intake were main reasons for discontinuation. Conclusion: There is a need to generate awareness regarding importance and correct duration of IFA consumption during pregnancy and constant mobilisation and support by health workers is required to increase the compliance
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Determinants
  topic: keywords
subject: IFA supplementation
  topic: keywords
subject: Maternal Anaemia
  topic: keywords
subject: Punjab
  topic: keywords
creator: Sanyogita Gupta
creator: Priyanka Devgun
creator: Harpreet Kaur
creator: Harjot Birgi
creator: Vishal Gupta
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Sanyogita Gupta, Priyanka Devgun, Harpreet Kaur , Harjot Birgi, Vishal Gupta (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2026-01-21
publication date: 2026-01-21
starting page: 277
ending page: 283
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_760_2025

A Mixed-method Study on Coping Mechanism among Caregivers of Thalassemia Patients Attending A Tertiary Care Hospital in West Bengal, India
type: item
description: Introduction: Thalassemia is a severe chronic anaemia. Caregivers face many stresses to provide the best possible medical care for their children. They develop a variety of coping mechanism. Objectives: To determine coping mechanism among caregivers of thalassemia patients and its associated factors; To explore challenges faced by caregivers of thalassemia patients. Methods: Institutional based observational study with convergent parallel mixed method study design was conducted in tertiary care hospital at OPD of Haematology Department in Kolkata, India. Total of 130 caregivers were selected through systematic random sampling for the quantitative strand who were interviewed using pre-tested questionnaire and the Coping Health Inventory for Parents-45 (CHIP). Additionally, seven in-depth interviews were conducted for the qualitative strand. Data were analysed using MS Excel 2019, SPSS v25, and QDA Miner Lite v3.0.2 with coding and thematic analysis after data saturation. Results: Among the caregivers 55 (42.3%) and 75 (57.7%) were mothers and fathers respectively with median age of 34 years. The median total score of the CHIP was 75, where 49% caregivers had adequate and 51% had inadequate coping skills. There was significant association between inadequate coping with poor social support (p=0.045) and frequent blood transfusion interval (p=0.020). The qualitative strand of this mixed-methods study identified five major themes-health problems, self-negligence, financial issues, familial issues and spiritual beliefs. Conclusion: Nearly half of the caregivers exhibited inadequate coping due to poor social support and shorter intervals between blood transfusions. Comprehensive support systems are crucial to improve their coping and overall quality of life.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Coping Mechanism
  topic: keywords
subject: Caregivers
  topic: keywords
subject: Convergent-Parallel
  topic: keywords
subject: Mixed Method study
  topic: keywords
subject: Thalassemia
  topic: keywords
creator: Shaswati Biswas
creator: Madhumita Bhattacharyya
creator: Monalisha Sahu
creator: Rivu Basu
creator: Bobby Paul
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Shaswati Biswas, Madhumita Bhattacharyya, Monalisha Sahu, Rivu Basu, Bobby Paul (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2026-01-21
publication date: 2026-01-21
starting page: 261
ending page: 268
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_726_2025

Assessment of Practices Regarding Hepatitis B Infection and Its Prevention among Undergraduate Students of a Government Medical College in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India
type: item
description: Introduction: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) poses a significant occupational risk to healthcare workers, including medical students. Assessing their preventive practices is critical to mitigate future transmission risks within healthcare settings. Objectives: This study aimed to assess practices related to Hepatitis B infection and its prevention, and to identify associated factors among medical undergraduates. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to November 2019, among 573 MBBS students at a government medical college in Western Uttar Pradesh. Data were collected via a semi-structured, pretested questionnaire, capturing socio-demographic details and responses on HBV practices. Practice scores were categorized as good, average, or poor. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 29 (trial version), applying Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests to assess associations. Results: Out of 600 eligible undergraduate students, 573 responded (96% response rate). Most students (97.2%) exhibited good preventive practices. However, only 74.5% were vaccinated, and a mere 18.8% had ever been tested for HBV. Razor-sharing was reported by 24.3%, highlighting risky behaviour. Lower professional years exhibited higher percentage of good practices. Professional year showed a statistically significant association with practice levels (p=0.01). Conclusion: A high proportion of students (97.2%) reported having good practices, however gaps persist in vaccination coverage, testing, and health education participation. Strengthening behavioural interventions, integrating routine HBV screening, and emphasizing preventive training throughout medical education are essential to ensure sustained safe practices.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Hepatitis B
  topic: keywords
subject: Medical Students
  topic: keywords
subject: Preventive Practices
  topic: keywords
subject: Public Health
  topic: keywords
subject: Vaccination
  topic: keywords
creator: Rudresh Negi
creator: Renu Agarwal
creator: Ishaan Virmani
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Rudresh Negi, Renu Agarwal, Ishaan Virmani (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2026-01-21
publication date: 2026-01-21
starting page: 308
ending page: 313
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_743_2025

Resilience among the Undergraduate Students in a Medical College in Kolkata: A Cross-Sectional Study
type: item
description: Introduction: Medical education is competitive, causing academic, clinical, and psychosocial stress, which contributes to rising depression and suicide rates among students. Resilience, the ability to cope with setbacks, serves as a stable protective factor against stress and burnout. Objectives: To estimate resilience among Undergraduate students of a Medical College in Kolkata and to determine the association of resilience with selected sociodemographic and academic variables. Methods: A facility-based observational study, cross-sectional in design, was conducted among 160 undergraduate students selected by stratified random sampling in a medical college of Kolkata. Sample size was calculated considering p=0.5, a precision of 7 %, design effect of 0.8 and considering 5% nonresponder rate. A predesigned, pre-validated structured questionnaire was used, comprising socio-demographic variables, the WHO 5 wellbeing score, and the Brief Resilience Scale. Association was calculated by the Chi-square test. Those having a significant association with them were taken for binary logistic regression. The value of p less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Among 160 study participants, 33% had a low level of resilience. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, higher age [AOR 2.22(1.03-4.76)], having no problems in the family [AOR 2.44(1.07-5.56)], and having a good WHO five wellbeing score [AOR 2.7(1.23-5.88)], have higher odds of having adequate resilience. Conclusion: About one-third of the study participants (33%) had low resilience. Male sex, higher age, belonging to joint family, having no problem in the family, absence of any comorbidity and having good WHO 5 wellbeing score had higher odds of developing adequate resilience.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Brief Resilience Scale
  topic: keywords
subject: Burnout psychological
  topic: keywords
subject: Burnout professional
  topic: keywords
subject: Resilience psychological
  topic: keywords
subject: Students
  topic: keywords
creator: Subhajoy Maitra
creator: Sayeli Mitra
creator: Archi Chandra
creator: Aditi Aikat
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Subhajoy Maitra, Sayeli Mitra, Archi Chandra, Aditi Aikat (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2026-01-21
publication date: 2026-01-21
starting page: 314
ending page: 322
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_741_2025

Facilitators and Barriers of Service Utilization in the Ayushman Arogya Mandirs of Tripura: A Qualitative Study
type: item
description: Introduction: In order to deliver comprehensive primary health care, the existing Sub Health Centres were converted into Health and Wellness Centre (HWC) now known as Ayushman Arogya Mandirs under the twin pillars of Ayushman Bharat Scheme. However, Universal Health Coverage (UHC) remains an elusive aim due to various shortcomings in the quality and availability of services. Objective: To identify the facilitators and barriers of utilization of the services of Health and Wellness Centres of Tripura. Methods: This was a Qualitative study, using In-depth Interview method where 35 key informants’ in-depth interviews were conducted in different health and wellness centre areas from the districts of Tripura and data were analysed using the Thematic network analysis framework. Results: Unavailability of services (like medicines and functioning equipment), lack of accessibility, lack of satisfaction, lack of awareness and poor health seeking behaviour were identified as major barriers of utilization of the services. On the other hand, positive working attitudes of the staff, availability of MCH services, friendly environment and good communication of staffs were found as facilitators in the utilization of services. Conclusion: The study highlighted that poor accessibility of health centres, unavailability of medicines, equipment etc., were acting as barriers whereas availability of the MCH services and staff behaviour were facilitating the service utilization.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Ayushman Arogya Mandir
  topic: keywords
subject: Comprehensive Primary Health Care
  topic: keywords
subject: Health and Wellness Centre
  topic: keywords
subject: Service Utilization
  topic: keywords
creator: Paulami Nag
creator: Rituparna Das
creator: Subrata Baidya
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Paulami Nag, Rituparna Das, Subrata Baidya (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-12-31
publication date: 2025-12-31
starting page: 253
ending page: 260
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_738_2025

Association Between Prior Tuberculosis History and Treatment Outcomes in Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis Patients Receiving Bedaquiline-Based Therapy: Prospective Observational Study from Western India
type: item
description: Introduction: Drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) poses a significant public health challenge in India. While treatment success in DR-TB cases remains limited, bedaquiline-based oral longer regimens have shown promising results in select studies. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate whether a patient’s prior TB status influences treatment outcomes under a bedaquiline-based regimen and to assess other previous TB-related variables affecting current DR-TB outcomes. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care center in Rajkot, Gujarat, between April 2023 and September 2024. Fifty DR-TB patients on bedaquiline-based oral longer regimens were selected using purposive sampling. Data on previous TB treatment, clinical and demographic variables were collected. Treatment outcomes were categorized as cured, treatment completed, defaulted, died, or failed. Statistical analysis using Chi-square and Cramer’s V was conducted to assess associations. Results: Of the 50 patients, 74% were underweight and from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, and 58% were female. Patients with a history of cured drug-sensitive TB (DSTB) demonstrated the highest favourable outcomes, with 70% showing success, and 55% achieving cure. In contrast, those with prior treatment failure or no TB history had poorer outcomes. However, the association between prior TB status and current DR-TB outcomes was not statistically significant (Chi-square = 20.99, p > 0.05; Cramer’s V = 0.3), indicating a weak correlation. Conclusion: Although cured DSTB history appears to improve outcomes, previous TB status alone does not significantly predict DR-TB treatment success. A comprehensive approach addressing adherence, resistance, comorbidities, nutrition, and social factors is crucial for better outcomes.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Bedaquiline
  topic: keywords
subject: Drug-resistant tuberculosis
  topic: keywords
subject: Previous TB history
  topic: keywords
subject: Predictive factors
  topic: keywords
subject: Treatment outcome
  topic: keywords
creator: Ruchita A Sakaria
creator: Bina Modi
creator: Anjana MS
creator: Bharti Koria
creator: Kamlesh Vithalani
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Ruchita Anilbhai Sakaria, Bina Modi, Anjana MS, Bharti Koria, Kamlesh Vithalani (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 98
ending page: 103
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_717_2025

Integrity in Research – The Cornerstone of Trust in Science
type: item
description: In recent years, the credibility of research has come under intense scrutiny. Scientific inquiry is built on curiosity, rigor, and honesty – yet, the very foundations are sometimes shaken by instances of misconduct, ranging from data fabrication and plagiarism to questionable authorship practices. Retractions of published papers, once considered rare and exceptional, have now become a regular feature in scholarly communication. Each retraction represents not just a blemish on the record of an individual or institution, but also an erosion of public trust in science. Institutions play an important role in upholding the values and integrity of research and science.
subject: Editorials
  topic: section
subject: Editorial
  topic: category
subject: Research integrity
  topic: keywords
subject: Institutional oversight
  topic: keywords
subject: Responsible research practices
  topic: keywords
subject: Retraction
  topic: keywords
subject: Scientific misconduct
  topic: keywords
creator: Animesh Jain
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Animesh Jain (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-09-30
publication date: 2025-09-30
starting page: 163
ending page: 164
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_795_2025

Perceptions and Effect of Mentoring of MBBS Students in a Peripheral Medical College of West Bengal
type: item
description: Introduction: Various medical colleges of West Bengal have developed ‘Mentoring Program’ offering guidance to students. Objectives: To assess mentees’ and mentors’ perception regarding mentoring during MBBS, to identify the barriers in a mentor-mentee relationship, to observe the effect of mentoring on perceived stress among students and identify association between stress level and socio-demographic profile. Methods: Institution based analytical study (November 2021 - October 2022) where total enumeration of third year students was done (n=183). HESI scale was used for the stress score & association between stress level and socio-demographic profile (chi-square/fisher’s exact test) were done. Results: Majority of the students 151 (82.51%) stated that they were benefitted from the mentoring. Among the benefitted students 35 (23.18%) stated it as academic, 22 (14.57%) as personal and 88 (58.27%) as both. Most of the students felt an ideal mentor should be friendly 161 (87.98%), easily approachable 166 (90.71%), a good listener 144 (78.69%), understandable 148 (80.87%), soft spoken 125 (68.31%), and should guide by valuable suggestions 138 (75.41%). About the barriers in communicating with the mentor 61 (33.33%) stated time constraints as the major barrier. A significant reduction in mean stress scores, from 2.48 (±0.39) before a mentoring program to 2.40 (±0.34) after (p < .005) by HESI scale was seen by paired t-test. Stress was not found to be significant with socio-demographic profile (chi-square/fisher’s exact test). Conclusions: Perception regarding mentoring among the mentors & mentees was found to be positive. Mentoring played a significant role in stress reduction among the students.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Education Medical
  topic: keywords
subject: Mentoring
  topic: keywords
subject: Mentors
  topic: keywords
subject: Stress Psychological
  topic: keywords
subject: Students Medical
  topic: keywords
creator: Surajit Lahiri
creator: Sonali Choudhari
creator: Prianka Mkhopadhyay
creator: Manisha Sarkar
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Surajit Lahiri, Sonali Choudhari, Prianka Mukhopadhyay, Manisha Sarkar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-10-21
publication date: 2025-10-21
starting page: 189
ending page: 194
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_767_2025

A Study on Occupational Correlates for Workplace Wellbeing, Morbidities and Occupational Health and Safety Vulnerability Measures amongst Diamond Workers In Surat
type: item
description: Introduction: Workers in diamond industry are exposed to various hazards. There are only few published scientific studies on workplace well-being, occupational health and safety measures in diamond workers. Objectives: To study occupational correlates for workplace wellbeing, morbidities and occupational health and safety vulnerability measures in diamond workers. Methods: The current study was a cross-sectional analytical study conducted on 350 diamond workers in four diamond industries located in Surat, Gujarat. Two stage convenient sampling was done with selection of industries in the first and selection of participants in the second. A questionnaire eliciting Socio demographic, Occupational and epidemiological variables was prepared along with workplace well-being questionnaire and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) vulnerability measure. Proportions, Chi-square, Fishers exact test and ANOVA, Post Hoc tests were calculated for tests of significance. Results: Out of 350 workers, 260 experienced health issues. Pain in the wrists, elbows, and shoulders (Musculo skeletal disorders) was reported by 156 (44.5%). Significant difference was found between different styles of work amongst diamond workers and work satisfaction. The workers when asked about OHS (Occupational Health and safety) Vulnerability Measures, all the workers mentioned “Never” for Question 8WH (Workplace Hazards-WH) Experience being bullied or harassed at work. Conclusions: All the five types of workers have medium level of work satisfaction, but differences are evident by mean scores with Table work having highest score over other type of works. Those doing Taliya and Mathala work had more health issues than Table, Ghat, and Athphel workers.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Diamond worker
  topic: keywords
subject: Occupational health and safety measures
  topic: keywords
subject: Workplace wellbeing
  topic: keywords
creator: Parita Bhut
creator: Deepak Sharma
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Parita R Bhut, Deepak B Sharma (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-10-21
publication date: 2025-10-21
starting page: 214
ending page: 220
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_715_2025

Perceptions and Challenges of Health Personnel in Managing Animal Bite Cases at a Rural Health Training Centre (RHTC) of Medical College in Ahmedabad: A Qualitative Study
type: item
description: Introduction: Animal bite in human is a public health concern in India. Prompt reporting followed by wound care and vaccination are essential to avoid rabies. Perception of service provider towards treatment contributes an important role for prevention against rabies. Objectives: To explore the perception and challenges faced by health personnel in animal bite cases management Methods: A qualitative study was conducted at the RHTC of medical college in Ahmedabad. Data were collected through Focus Group Discussions of ASHAs and Key Informants Interviews (KII) with service providers (3 Medical Officers (MOs), 1 staff nurse, 1 pharmacist, and 2 support staff). Data were analysed thematically. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained. Results: Service providers' KIIs showed that MOs were unclear about classification of animal bites due to lack of formal/updated training. Immunoglobulins were the only ARV-related logistics not available at facility. No system in place to monitor cases of animal bites. ASHA's FGD shared that community still continues to treat wounds with traditional remedies like chhikni, turmeric etc., and also take vow due to belief. The local authority isn't doing enough to address stray dog problem and recent surge in dog bite incidents reported. ASHAs knew importance of ARV, but having a partial knowledge of its schedule. They did not receive any formal training on managing animal bites, despite ASHA's were ready to learn more about it. Conclusion: The study highlighted inadequacies in the management of animal bites, such as lack of resources, misunderstandings in the community and insufficient staff training.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Animal bite management
  topic: keywords
subject: Challenges
  topic: keywords
subject: Perception
  topic: keywords
subject: Qualitative study
  topic: keywords
subject: Service providers
  topic: keywords
creator: Shailesh Prajapati
creator: Rashmi S. Sharma
creator: Harsh Bakshi
creator: Brijesh P Patel
creator: Azbah W. Pirzada
creator: Nirav K. Bapat
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Shailesh Prajapati, Rashmi S. Sharma, Harsh Bakshi, Brijesh P Patel, Azbah W. Pirzada, Nirav K. Bapat (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-10-21
publication date: 2025-10-21
starting page: 206
ending page: 213
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_766_2025

From 99DOTS to 99DOTSLite in Gujarat: A Pragmatic Leap in TB Treatment Adherence
type: item
description: In 2013, Microsoft Research India launched a digital adherence technology (DAT) called 99DOTS which was created to overcome low treatment adherence in India's tuberculosis (TB) program. It employed the use of envelope-based medication delivery with concealed numbers which were unlocked and dialed by the patient to record compliance. Although successful in small-scale pilots, widespread adoption revealed several weaknesses such as dependence on packaging, complexity, and imprecision. To address these, the Central TB Division introduced a simplified version of its system, 99DOTSLite, in 2023, which relies on district-specific toll-free numbers (TFNs) printed on the medication packs or ID cards. Patients verify intake by making a missed call which gets automatically registered in Ni-kshay and thus followed up in real time in case of missed doses. In comparison to the previous systems, 99DOTSLite is affordable, compatible with any TB regimen, user-friendly, and easily integrated with the digital TB environment of India. Even though issues with phone access, connection, and possible false reporting are possible, 99DOTSLite is an open-ended, patient-centered innovation essential to India TB elimination activities.
subject: Letter to Editor
  topic: section
subject: Letter to Editor
  topic: category
subject: 99DOTS
  topic: keywords
subject: 99DOTSLITE
  topic: keywords
subject: DOTS
  topic: keywords
subject: Treatment Adherence
  topic: keywords
subject: Tuberculosis
  topic: keywords
creator: Mittal Rathod
creator: Harsha Solanki
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Mittal Rathod, Harsha Solanki (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-10-21
publication date: 2025-10-21
starting page: 240
ending page: 242
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_H761_2025

Risk of Rabies and the Traveller's Health
type: item
description: Rabies is one of the deadliest infectious diseases. It is prevalent all over the world. As it is spread to humans and some animals by bite, scratch or direct contact with the mucous membrane of the infected animal. Most of the people coming to the African and Asian countries are exposed to rabies, special people coming from where the elimination of canine rabies has been achieved. Most of the travellers are aware of the rabies infection. Travellers know that animals, especially dogs, are the most common source of rabies infection. Most of the travellers don’t have the seriousness of the infection. They don’t find themselves as a potential source of the spread of the rabies infection. The vaccine against rabies infection is the main key to stopping the spread of the disease. Travel clinics are one of the platforms from which people can get all the information regarding infectious diseases occurring in the visiting area. The role of healthcare professionals in recommending rabies vaccination prior to travel to endemic areas is extremely important. The lack of knowledge and awareness of rabies exposure results in a variety of opinions on which travellers should receive pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). It directly influences the recommendation and decision-making as it is based on individual perspective and interpretation rather than statistical data on rabies infection in each country.
subject: Continuing Medical Education
  topic: section
subject: Continuing Medical Education (CME)
  topic: category
subject: Endemic
  topic: keywords
subject: Pre-exposure prophylaxis
  topic: keywords
subject: Rabies
  topic: keywords
subject: Traveller
  topic: keywords
subject: Vaccination
  topic: keywords
creator: Ashwini Katole
creator: Purushottam Giri
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Ashwini Katole, Purushottam Giri (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-10-21
publication date: 2025-10-21
starting page: 165
ending page: 168
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_752_2025

Monitoring of the National Mass Drug Administration Campaign for Lymphatic Filariasis Elimination in Narmada District, Gujarat: An Experience
type: item
description: This study evaluates MDA campaign in Gujarat for lymphatic filariasis elimination in the Narmada district. While ashram schools achieved 95% coverage, household compliance reached only 75% due to work conflicts, and migrant workers showed 80% uptake with mop-up challenges. Key barriers included medical condition-related refusals (60%), fear of side effect of medication (30%), and documentation gaps (40%). Implementation challenges involved poor timing (missing 25% workers), exclusion of commercial sectors, and weak coordination. Successful institutional delivery models contrasted with gaps requiring: 1) adjusted distribution timings, 2) targeted counselling for chronic patients, 3) workplace-based MDA, and 4) enhanced digital IEC in local dialects. The findings emphasise the need for improved microplanning, real-time monitoring, and private-sector integration. These results demonstrate that tailored approaches targeted working populations, migrants, and comorbid patients can significantly improve compliance. The study provides actionable recommendations to strengthen MDA implementation, supporting India's 2027 elimination target through context-specific strategies that address ground-level challenges while leveraging successful institutional models.
subject: Letter to Editor
  topic: section
subject: Letter to Editor
  topic: category
subject: Disease Eradication
  topic: keywords
subject: Lymphatic Filariasis
  topic: keywords
subject: Mass Drug Administration
  topic: keywords
creator: Arihant Jain
creator: Lincy Ableen Lakra
creator: S.K. Rasania
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Arihant Jain, Lincy Ableen Lakra, S.K. Rasania (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-10-21
publication date: 2025-10-21
starting page: 237
ending page: 239
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_728_2025

Effectiveness of an Educational Intervention on Treatment Adherence Among Hypertensive Patients in Rural Delhi
type: item
description: Introduction: Hypertension is a major public health challenge in low- and middle-income countries like India, with low awareness and control rates, especially in rural areas. Poor adherence to treatment remains a significant barrier. This study evaluated the effectiveness of an educational intervention in improving medication adherence among hypertensive patients in rural Delhi. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a multifaceted educational intervention package in improving treatment adherence and blood pressure control among hypertensive patients in rural Delhi. Methods: A quasi-experimental, before-and-after study was conducted among 102 hypertensive patients at the Rural Health Training Centre, Najafgarh. The intervention included flipchart-based counselling, weekly voice and text messages, and follow-up visits conducted at 2,4,6 months. Data were collected using Hill Bone Medication Adherence Scale for medical adherence. Cochran’s Q, McNemar, Chi square and logistic regression were used for statistical significance of adherence changes and associations. Results: Medication adherence increased significantly from 47 (53.9%) at baseline to 72 (70.5%) post-intervention (p < 0.001). The mean Hill Bone Scale score decreased from 31.4 ± 6.2 to 28.49 ± 4.46, indicating better adherence. Significant associations were found between adherence and regular Blood Pressure checks (p = 0.03), weight loss (p = 0.001), and blood pressure control (p = 0.02). Conclusion: The study demonstrates that educational interventions significantly improve medication adherence and blood pressure control in rural settings. Regular monitoring and lifestyle changes, especially weight loss, further enhanced adherence, highlighting the need for scalable, sustainable hypertension management strategies.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Blood Pressure
  topic: keywords
subject: Educational intervention
  topic: keywords
subject: Hypertension
  topic: keywords
subject: Medication adherence
  topic: keywords
creator: Anubhav Mondal
creator: Richa Kapoor
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Anubhav Mondal, Richa Kapoor (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-10-21
publication date: 2025-10-21
starting page: 195
ending page: 200
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_742_2025

A Cross-Sectional Study About Household Solid Waste Management Practices Among Residents in Urban Slum Area of Mumbai
type: item
description: Introduction: Household solid waste management is a primary step to curb environmental pollution. Objective: To determine household solid waste management practices among residents in urban slum area in Mumbai. Method: A Cross-sectional study was conducted in a community field practice area. Two hundred participants were selected by using systematic random sampling method. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Results: The study revealed 75.5% (151) of families used wastebins in households, 64.5% (129) used public bins for disposal of waste, and 66.5% (133) of households did not segregate the waste generated. Statistically significant association was found between education and waste management practices. Conclusions: This study showed that majority of waste generated was kitchen waste, and very small percentage of people segregated waste material, even though the appropriate method for waste disposal had been practiced. Measures must be taken to reduce generated waste and create awareness regarding proper waste disposal methods.
subject: Short Communications
  topic: section
subject: Short Communication
  topic: category
subject: Household waste
  topic: keywords
subject: solid waste management practices
  topic: keywords
subject: waste disposal
  topic: keywords
creator: Anish Krishna CU
creator: Rujuta S Hadaye
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Anish Krishna C.U., Rujuta S. Hadaye (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-10-21
publication date: 2025-10-21
starting page: 231
ending page: 236
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_739_2025

Consumption of High-Fat, Salt, and Sugar Foods and its Determinants Among Medical Undergraduates in North Kerala: A Cross-Sectional Study
type: item
description: Introduction: Rising HFSS food intake among young medical undergraduates contributes to early NCD risk among them. Objectives: To assess the consumption pattern of HFSS foods and the factors determining its choice among medical undergraduates in North Kerala. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done among medical undergraduates of a private medical college in North Kerala during 2024. Stratified random sampling were done and 202 participants were selected. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to study participants and anthropometric assessments such as height, weight, and BMI was assessed. Data was entered in MS Excel and analysed using SPSS. Results: A significant proportion (51.5%) of participants regularly consumed HFSS foods, with taste (82%) being a primary motivator for their choices. Awareness levels regarding the health risks associated with HFSS foods varied among participants. Varying degrees of malnutrition such as Underweight (13.5%), Overweight (26.9 %) and Obesity (26%) were more among those who had high HFSS consumption. Those who perceived a negative impact of HFSS foods on their health was 1.4 times higher HFSS consumers than others and was an independent predictor (p 0.037) Conclusion: The study reveals critical insights into the dietary behaviours of young adults. More than half of the medical undergraduates reported high consumption of HFSS foods, correlating with rising obesity rates in this population. The study identifies key factors influencing their dietary choices, including convenience, affordability, and social influences such as peer pressure and marketing tactics.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Fast foods
  topic: keywords
subject: Feeding behaviours
  topic: keywords
subject: Noncommunicable diseases
  topic: keywords
subject: Obesity
  topic: keywords
subject: Processed foods
  topic: keywords
creator: Navya Gangadharan
creator: Meera S Nair
creator: Nivya Noonhiyil Kaitheri
creator: Manju Thandayan Lakshmanan
creator: Anjali Lakshmanan
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Navya Gangadharan, Meera S Nair, Nivya N K, Manju T L, Anjali Lakshmanan (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-10-21
publication date: 2025-10-21
starting page: 175
ending page: 182
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_727_2025

Barriers and Enablers in Implementing Tele-Counselling for Postnatal Care of Low-Birth-Weight Infants in Rural India: A Qualitative Study
type: item
description: Introduction: Tele-counselling may emerge as a promising strategy for improving neonatal outcomes in low-birthweight (LBW) babies especially in resource-constrained settings. Objective: To explore barriers and enablers in implementing tele-counselling for caregivers of LBW infants in a rural Indian setting drawing insights from a community based interventional study. Methods: This qualitative study was nested within a larger community based interventional study, conducted in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, the qualitative component is presented. Tele-counselling was provided to caregivers of 40 LBW infants over eight weeks selected consecutively. Data related to challenges were collected through in-depth interviews and analysed by thematic analysis, supplemented with qualitative reflections and case narratives. Results: Key barriers included poor network coverage (35%), lack of willingness to talk (35%), time constraints (25%) and comprehension difficulties (7.5%). Enablers included ASHA worker involvement, flexible scheduling and personalized support. Six themes emerged: technological barriers, communication and comprehension gaps, trust and reluctance, time constraints and competing priorities, role of Community Health Workers, and personalization and case-based support. Conclusion: Despite technological and behavioural barriers, tele-counselling can serve as an effective postnatal intervention tool when combined with trust-building, flexible timing and collaboration with frontline workers. Tailored counselling, regular follow-up and community integration are critical for success.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Communication barriers
  topic: keywords
subject: Counselling
  topic: keywords
subject: Low birth weight
  topic: keywords
subject: Neonatal care
  topic: keywords
creator: Shivangi Agrawal
creator: Renu Agrawal
creator: Pankaj Kumar Agrawal
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Shivangi Agrawal, Renu Agrawal, Pankaj Kumar Agrawal (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-10-21
publication date: 2025-10-21
starting page: 169
ending page: 174
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_733_2025

The Digital Pulse: Time to Rewire Medical Libraries in India
type: item
subject: Letter to Editor
  topic: section
subject: Letter to Editor
  topic: category
subject: Digital
  topic: keywords
subject: Medical Students
  topic: keywords
subject: National Medical Commission
  topic: keywords
creator: Nitin Solanki
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Nitin Solanki (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 152
ending page: 153
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_756_2025

Family Caregivers’ Perspective for Cancer Care in a Tertiary Care Centre of Assam
type: item
description: Introduction: Family caregivers (FC) of patients with cancer has to undergo a lot of difficulties while taking care of the patients especially during advanced stage and often face burnout. Objective: To assess cancer patient’s caregivers’ perspective in a tertiary care centre of Dibrugarh, Assam. Methods: A Cross-sectional mixed method study was done among. Sample size was 180. Patients with cancer and their primary caregivers in a Tertiary Cancer Centre of Assam were enrolled between May-November 2024. Pretested and predesigned questionnaire was used to collect data from caregivers of cancer patients. Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI) format was used for assessing burden of caregivers. In depth interview of 20 caregivers (till saturation level) was done and the data collected was used for qualitative study. Analysis was done using SPSS 25 and Atlas TI. Result: A total of 155 participated in the study. Mean age of the caregivers was 42.26 ± 11.84 years and mean Zarit Burden score of caregivers was 36.44±9.65. Majority (103, 67%) caregivers reported mild-to-moderate burden, while 41 caregivers (26%) reported moderate-to-severe burden. Financial constrain, lack of social and emotional support, communication challenges emerged as major themes in qualitative study. Conclusion: Financial and emotional strain, dependency, anxiety and stress need to be addressed with holistic implementation of community-based interventions such as different welfare scheme, strengthened support system and communication interventions.
subject: Original Articles
  topic: section
subject: Original Articles
  topic: category
subject: Cancer
  topic: keywords
subject: Caregiver Burden
  topic: keywords
subject: Family caregiver
  topic: keywords
subject: Mixed method study
  topic: keywords
subject: Zarit Burden Interview Score
  topic: keywords
creator: Marycharan Devi Sagolsem
creator: Tulika Goswami Mahanta
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Marycharan Devi Sagolsem, Tulika Goswami Mahanta (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 92
ending page: 97
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_706_2025

Dyslipidemia and Hypertension Among Type 2 Diabetics at a Tertiary Care Hospital of South Gujarat, India
type: item
description: Introduction: The number of diabetes cases are rising globally along with comorbidities like hypertension and dyslipidemia. Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of dyslipidemia and hypertension in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients of Valsad, Gujarat, India. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study of total 62 blood samples of T2DM patients selected by convenience sampling which analysed fasting blood sugar (FBS), postprandial blood sugar (PP2BS), cholesterol, triglyceride (TG) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) using standard methods at a tertiary care hospital of Valsad. Low density lipoprotein (LDL) and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) were also estimated using Martin-Hopkins and Friedewald equations respectively. Results: In study participants, 11.29% had neither hypertension (HTN) nor dyslipidemia, 64.52% had HTN, 77.42% had dyslipidemia and 53.22% patients had HTN and dyslipidemia along with diabetes. Conclusion: Results suggest a high prevalence of dyslipidemia and HTN in study subjects. Early screening and administration of lipid-lowering agents are required in these patients.
subject: Short Communications
  topic: section
subject: Short Communication
  topic: category
subject: Blood sugar
  topic: keywords
subject: Diabetes
  topic: keywords
subject: Dyslipidemia
  topic: keywords
subject: Hypertension
  topic: keywords
subject: lipid profile
  topic: keywords
creator: Jash Kotak
creator: Kirtida Tandel
creator: Mithil Kotak
creator: Diwakar Sharma
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Jash Kotak, Kirtida Tandel, Mithil Kotak, Diwakar Sharma (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 142
ending page: 148
doi: 10.51957/Healthline_687_2025