The Journal provides an avenue to medical scientists for publication of original research work so as to facilitate use of research for public health action. The scope of the Journal is broad. Original research articles are invited on public health, primary health care, epidemiology, health administration, health systems, health economics, health promotion, public health nutrition, communicable and non-communicable diseases, maternal and child health, occupational and environmental health, social and preventive medicine which have potential to promote evidence-based public health action. The Journal also include editorial, commentaries, perspectives, state of the art reviews, research briefs, policy and practice, reports from the field, public health classics, letters to the editor and book reviews.
A "Use of Mother Child Protection Card in Medical College Setting: Our Experience"
Background: The Mother Child Protection Card (MCP Card) is a user friendly, visual tool designed to provide concise, actionable guidance on specific tasks to the community health workers. Aim & Objective: The present study intended to use MCP card for parental empowerment as a sustainable solution for holistic child development and child safety tips in medical college. Settings and Design: This was a prospective cross-sectional study conducted in a tertiary care hospital. The study population comprised children between 0-2 years of age. Methods and Material: An informed written consent was obtained from the mothers prior to inclusion in the study. Participants were selected based on predefined inclusion criteria and were administered a pre-validated semi structural proforma in vernacular language. Data collected in preformed data collection form was entered in Microsoft Excel and analyzed using IBM Statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 26. Results: The Mother and Child Protection (MCP) Card was used for parental counselling and the most common form of affectionate interaction with babies was hugging or skin-to-skin contact (33.2%), emphasizing the crucial role of physical touch in early development. 93.2% of mothers felt more confident in caring for their second baby after using the MCP card compared to their first parenting experience. This tool offers a valuable guidance and practical support, enhancing parenting skills even among experienced mothers by providing targeted knowledge and improved caregiving strategies. Conclusion: The study emphasizes that for MCP cards and HBYC job aids with structured training of frontline health workers and counselling sessions at key maternal-child contact points.
Copyright (c) 2025 Pramila Menon, Hindu; Renuka, Dr http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The "Transforming Medical Assessment: Virtual OSCEs in Community Medicine - Medical Students' Perspectives"
Abstract: Background: Virtual OSCE sessions offer significant utility as an educational tool by enhancing accessibility standardization, immediate feedback, and technology integration. Aim & Objective: To study the utility of a Virtual OSCE assessment method and to determine the students' perception of this approach. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 first-year medical undergraduates at a medical institute. Methods and Material: OSCE stations assessed blood pressure and nutritional Anaemia. Students were sensitized in small groups via a virtual platform. Clinical skills were evaluated virtually, while another station was physically assessed. A structured, validated interview and open-ended responses analyzed students' perspectives on the virtual OSCE. Analysis: Shapiro–Wilk test of normality, Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney test, the Phi or mean square contingency coefficient. Results: Out of 150 students, 137 participated in the assessment. Among them, 82.4% found virtual OSCE teaching engaging, 80.3% found it interactive, and 87.5% felt it enhanced their interrogation and interpersonal skills. Most students not only appreciated the virtual OSCE for being interesting, innovative, and less time-consuming but also found it to be an effective tool for reducing their fear of facing teachers through immediate feedback. However, a few still preferred the traditional viva method for in-person contact. Conclusions: Virtual OSCEs are a feasible, engaging, and interactive alternative to in-person assessments, enhancing confidence, history-taking, and communication skills. Keywords: Assessment, Domains, Objective structured clinical examination, Virtual. Key message: Virtual OSCEs in Community Medicine are an innovative, effective alternative to traditional assessments, boosting student engagement, confidence, and communication skills through interactive sessions and immediate feedback.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sachin Bhaskar Palve, Suchitra Sachin Palve http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
COVID-19 vaccination status and willingness for further booster doses among staff and students of a tertiary care institute
Background Vaccination remains the mainstay of COVID-19 prevention. While initial vaccine acceptance was high among healthcare workers (HCWs), the emergence of new variants and waning immunity necessitated vaccine boosters. The study aimed to assess the COVID-19 vaccination status and willingness for further booster doses among the staff and medical students in a tertiary care institute. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, technicians), ancillary staff, and students. An online semi-structured questionnaire collected information from participants regarding sociodemographic characteristics, history of COVID-19 vaccination, acceptance and uptake of vaccine booster, and reasons for willingness to uptake booster. The Chi-square test assessed the association between sociodemographic variables and booster acceptance. Results About 302 people participated in the survey. The mean (S.D.) age of the participants was 28.9 (8.3) years and most of them were females. The majority of them had received the Covishield vaccine (71.5%). Half of them had already received a COVID-19 booster. Seven out of ten participants expressed willingness to receive further booster doses. Type of employment and department were significantly associated with participants' willingness. The perception of the COVID-19 vaccine as an immunity booster was a key motivator. About 15.1% of participants expressed a preference for a nasal booster for its convenience in administration. Conclusion The study highlights a high willingness for COVID-19 vaccine boosters among healthcare professionals and medical students. It emphasizes the importance of continuous efforts to promote vaccine boosters, given the crucial role of the medical community in shaping public perception.
Copyright (c) 2025 Meenal Madhukar Thakare, NIKITA SHARMA, Sunidhi Karol http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Comparison of Ice Lined Refrigerators of the different types used in Western part of India under the Universal Immunization Program.
Background & Objective: The effectiveness of Ice-Lined Refrigerators (ILRs) is crucial in maintaining the cold chain for vaccines, particularly in India's Universal Immunization Program (UIP). This cross-sectional study aimed to compare the performance of top-and front-opening ILRs in Gujarat, focusing on temperature stability, holdover time, and functionality. Methods: A total of 123 ILRs from various manufacturers were assessed across urban and rural health facilities. Key parameters such as ambient temperature, breakdown frequency, ease of use, and temperature fluctuations during door openings were recorded. Mann-whitney U test/ t-test and Binary logistic regression model were used as statistical methods. Results: Analysis indicated that top-opening ILRs, which made up 72.4% of the sample, performed significantly better in maintaining temperature stability and had a longer holdover time (mean: 5.4hours) compared to front-opening ILRs (mean: 4.3hours). Temperature breaches were more frequent in top-opening models (34.8%) compared to front-opening ones (5.9%), but the front-opening ILRs exhibited a greater temperature rise during door openings. Logistic regression analysis revealed a strong association between longer holdover time and top-opening ILRs. The study also found infrastructure and training gaps at some facilities, with only 57.7% of ILRs equipped with functional temperature monitoring systems, and many health workers lacking updated training. The findings suggest that top-opening ILRs are more reliable for cold chain management, though further investigation into front-opening models is warranted. Conclusion: For future cold chain management, prioritize top-opening ILRs for their reliability, increase AMC coverage for consistent maintenance, and enhance training for personnel on ILR handling, especially with newer models. Additionally, invest in backup-power and temperature monitoring equipment to prevent temperature breaches, particularly in remote areas.
Copyright (c) 2025 Bhautik Modi, Krupal J Joshi, Vikas Kokare, Sanjay Singhal, Krishna Jasani, Kamlesh Parmar http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Role of Structured Counselling and Health Education in Enhancing Awareness and Self-care among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients in a Tertiary Care Setting of Rajasthan, India.
Background: Control of risk factors by lifestyle and dietary modification is an essential part of Diabetes mellitus Type 2 management. The counselling of patients is needed to impart knowledge and to create awareness regarding self-care in diabetes mellitus cases. Health education using awareness material for the diabetes patients enhances selfcare and in turn results in glycemic control of diabetes mellitus. Objectives: The study was designed to assess pre- and post-effect of counselling and education material distribution in DM Type 2 patients Methodology: The cross-sectional study was conducted on 210 indoor diabetic patients. Pre and post-intervention evaluation was done by a questionnaire. Intervention was done in form of counselling, online and offline education material distribution. Results: There was an improvement in retention of knowledge and patient satisfaction on post-intervention evaluation. Conclusion: Distribution of online and offline education material with counselling can improve retention of knowledge and patient satisfaction. Education material distribution with counselling should be part of the health care system.
Copyright (c) 2025 Navgeet Mathur, Lalit Shrimali, Kalpesh Kerasiya, Medha Mathur, Abhijit Basu http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Comparative Burden of HbA1c and RBG Levels Among Individuals Above 25 Years in the Post-COVID-19 and Pre-COVID-19 Periods: A Retrospective Analysis at a Medical College Hospital, Ramanagara, Karnataka
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted public health, including metabolic health and glycemic control. SARS-CoV-2 affects glucose metabolism through inflammation, stress, and healthcare disruptions. HbA1c, a key diabetes marker, has shown increased levels post-COVID, suggesting higher hyperglycemia burden. In India, pre-COVID data revealed 12% of women and 14% of men over 15 years had RBG >140 mg/dl, with higher rates reported during COVID due to stress, inflammation, and treatment changes like corticosteroid use. We hypothesized a 15% rise in elevated HbA1c and RBG levels post-COVID among patients over 25 years. This study compared pre- and post-COVID trends by age and gender. Methods: The study was conducted at CDSIMER Hospital, as a retrospective observational analysis of HbA1c and RBG levels in patients aged >25 years. Two periods were compared: Pre-COVID-19 (2019–2021) and Post-COVID-19 (2022–2023). Data from the Laboratory Information System (LIS) and NFHS-5 reports were analyzed. Inclusion criteria included complete HbA1c and RBG records. The estimated sample size, based on previous studies, was 10,475. Results: A total of 17,238 patients data were analysed. In the post-COVID period, 16.95% had very high levels (?160 mg%), more than doubling from NFHS-5 data. Males showed a higher prevalence (22.15%) than females (12.86%). HbA1c >6.5% was found in 64% of individuals aged >25 years. Conclusion: Alarming increase in blood glucose levels among population aged above 25 years. National Health Programmes to take justifiable action on priority.
Copyright (c) 2025 shilpashree MK, Akshitha S, Leelambika http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
A "Utilization and Challenges of Mobile learning (m-Learning) in Medical Education – Insights from MBBS Students
Background: The National Medical Commission’s (NMC) competency based medical education(CBME) curriculum places a strong emphasis on lifelong learning and self-directed study. Mobile learning provides the adaptability and accessibility needed to facilitate these learner centred strategies This study explores MBBS students’ Mobile learning usage patterns, perception, and challenges associated with m learning in a medical university situated in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Materials and Procedures: A pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire with Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.90 was used to collect data .400 MBBS students from all academic phases participated in a descriptive cross-sectional study. Convenience sampling was used. SPSS software version 22 was used for the analysis. Results :60% of respondents were female, and the majority (66.5%) were between the ages of 21 and 23. 92.5% of students were aware of m-learning apps, and 62.2% of them used them frequently throughout the day. Only 21.5% of respondents said they primarily used mobile for educational purposes, despite 88% agreeing that it had a positive impact on learning. Mobile app learning was the least popular learning method, whereas practical sessions ranked highest among preferred learning methods .Distractions (35.5%), internet dependence (21.5%), and decreased practical exposure (55.2%) were the main challenges faced by MBBS students during m learning .Conclusion: Traditional and hands-on learning approaches continue to be the most popular, despite the fact that m-Learning is well-liked by MBBS students and enhances contemporary medical education. By combining m-Learning with didactic and practical elements, a blended approach can overcome technological obstacles and maximize educational effectiveness.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ruchi Chaturvedi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Assessment of Beliefs, Behaviors and Opinion About Blood Donation in Etawah District, Uttar Pradesh, India : A cross sectional study
Background: Aim to explore people’s attitude and action towards blood donation, can gain factors that influence donation and develop strategies to encourage more individuals to participate in life saving act Aim & Objective: To assess the beliefs, behaviors, and opinions of the public towards blood donation Settings and Design: cross-sectional study was conducted in four villages under the field practice area of the Department of Community Medicine at UPUMS, Saifai Methods and Material: Technique of random sampling was applied. Employing a semi-structured questionnaire, consist of beliefs, behvaiors and opinion data has been collected. Statistical analysis used: Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to assess associations between opinion and belifes and demographic variables, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: 87.6% of participants thought that blood donation may save lives, and majority (82.6%) thought it was an essential act. A total of 27.8% of participants were willing to give blood voluntarily, and 35.4% of participants accepted receiving blood from voluntary donors Conclusions: The participant's motivation, beliefs, and opinions toward blood donation were positive. The majority of them also thought that giving blood may save lives and that it was a significant action.
Copyright (c) 2025 Anshul Kumar, Sandip Kumar, Lokesh Raheja, Adarsh Maurya, Anurag Verma, Shivani Binwal http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
An epidemiological study of road traffic accidents among patients admitted in a tertiary care hospital
Background: Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are a significant public health issue, especially in low- and middle-income nations such as India, where they cause a large number of morbidity and mortality. Evaluate the epidemiological determinants, patterns of injury, and outcomes of healthcare -related road traffic accidents in order to determine risk factors and recommend evidence-based prevention and management strategies. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational hospital-based study was performed to analyze the epidemiological determinants, patterns of injuries, and prognosis of RTA victims. The study recruited a total of 821 admitted RTA patients from 2019 to 2020 Results: The results revealed a male predominance (91.3%) among victims, with 43.4% referred from district hospitals. Only 6.3% used helmets or seatbelts. Most accidents occurred on roads (62.7%) with mixed injuries being common (64.8%). Conclusion: The research highlights the imperative need for strict enforcement of traffic regulations, better road infrastructure, and heightened public awareness drives to prevent RTAs. Enhanced trauma care services at primary and secondary levels can also alleviate the load on tertiary care facilities. A multi-sectoral response involving urban planning, public health, legal enforcement is necessary to tackle life-threatening public health problem.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rajeev Misra, Sandeep Tiwari, Amar C Sharma, Chakori Nigam , Surendra Bharti http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Health Equity in the Era of Free Trade Agreements: A Scoping Review of Mechanisms, Evidence, and Policy Options
Background: Free trade agreements (FTAs) increasingly extend beyond tariffs to include intellectual property (IP), investment protections, regulatory cooperation, and standards for labour and the environment. These provisions can reshape social determinants of health and the distribution of health outcomes. This review synthesizes how FTAs influence health equity through identifiable mechanisms and appraises the strength and direction of the evidence. Methods: We conducted a scoping review (PRISMA-ScR aligned) of peer-reviewed and credible grey literature in English from database inception to 31 December 2024 across PubMed/MEDLINE, PubMed Central, BioMed Central, and Google Scholar; we also screened key agency sites (WHO, UNITAID, APHA). We included studies assessing bilateral, regional, or “mega-regional” FTAs that reported health outcomes, equity-relevant determinants (e.g., access to medicines, nutrition environments, employment, environmental exposure), or distributional effects. Screening and extraction followed a predefined framework, with methodological appraisal appropriate to design. Synthesis was thematic, mapped to a priori pathways: (1) policy-space constraints (TRIPS-plus IP; investor–state dispute settlement, ISDS); (2) market and risk-environment shifts (food systems, alcohol/tobacco, product flows); and (3) income, employment, and environmental channels. Results: Evidence linking FTAs to restricted medicine access via TRIPS-plus provisions and to deterrent effect on public health regulation under ISDS is consistent but context-dependent. Quasi-experimental studies associate specific agreements with higher calorie availability and diet shifts and with heterogeneous changes in NCD risk, while multi-country analyses suggest some health gains via employment and environmental improvements under deeper RTAs. Post-COVID scholarship foregrounds vaccine equity and trade/IP flexibilities as critical equity levers. Overall certainty varies by mechanism and design; distributional impacts are greatest where regulatory capacity is limited. Conclusions: FTAs can both create opportunities and pose risks for health equity. Equity-concordant trade governance requires transparent negotiation, ex-ante health impact assessment, preservation of TRIPS flexibilities and public-health exceptions, narrowing or excluding ISDS, and targeted measures to mitigate distributional harms—especially in low-capacity settings. We highlight actionable options for negotiators, regulators, and public-health actors and specify priority evidence gaps.
Copyright (c) 2025 Om Prakash Bera, Venkatesh U, Deepankar Satapathy, Arshdeep Singh, Mokshada Chandge http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Awareness and perception of cervical cancer among pre-primary school teachers of Dehradun: A cross-sectional study
Background: Cervical cancer is a preventable disease, and its prevention includes primary, secondary, and tertiary-level activities. Health education and vaccination against HPV are the primary components of prevention and early detection through widely available screening techniques are the secondary preventative measures. Given the rising cost of treatment and also keeping in mind the barriers in our healthcare delivery systems, the disease burden of cervical cancer in India remains a public health problem. The present study highlights the knowledge, awareness & perception among pre-primary school teachers of Dehradun about cervical cancer and its vaccination. Aim & Objective: To assess awareness & perception about cervical cancer, its causes, symptoms & signs, and available specific protection & services among pre-primary female school teachers of Dehradun and to find the socio-demographic factors/situations influencing awareness & perception of study subjects. Settings and Design: Dehradun, Cross-sectional study Methods and Material: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a span of 2 months in the sampled pre-primary schools of Dehradun city among the female teachers. The tool used is a pretested semi-structured questionnaire on knowledge, attitude & practice along with socio-demographic variables. Statistical analysis used: Data analysis was done using SPSS version 21, and Chi-square test was used to determine significant statistical correlation with the sociodemographic variables. Results: A total of 104 consenting female teachers from 23 sampled pre-primary schools took part in the study. Among the participants, 47% had heard about cervical cancer, 86% of them knew from the internet, approximately 80% didn’t know about the causative factors of cervical cancer and around 70% did not know the symptoms of the disease. One-fourth of the participants had heard about cervical cancer vaccination, while none of them had ever been vaccinated for the same. Only one-fifth of them knew pap smear as a screening procedure, but less than 3% of them got the test done. Chi-square test highlighted a significant p-value (< 0.05) for smoking, genital hygiene & multiple partners as risk factors and irregular menstruation & post-coital bleeding as symptoms for cervical cancer. Conclusions: The cervical cancer burden and other HPV related ailments can only be put on check by information, education and communication for the screening and prevention of the disease. In view of that even the literate, working female population of Dehradun are barely informed regarding the prevention of the disease. The study concludes the importance of awareness and health-seeking behaviour among the population about cervical cancer and its prevention.
Copyright (c) 2025 Monojit Das, Priyanka Dobhal, Debabrata Roy, Medhavi Rana http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Evaluation of FSH Receptor Gene Polymorphisms among infertile women and its correlation with Ovarian Reserve Markers and fertility outcomes: A Prospective Observational Study from Northern India
Background: Genetic polymorphisms in Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Receptor (FSHR) gene, has been implicated in modulating ovarian response to controlled ovarian stimulation in women undergoing IVF. However, their clinical relevance in infertile women undergoing ovulation induction remains unclear, especially in Indian population. Objectives: To evaluate association of FSHR gene polymorphisms Thr307Ala (rs6165) and Asn680Ser (rs6166) with ovarian reserve markers and fertility outcomes in infertile women undergoing ovulation induction cycles. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology from August 2021 to May 2025. Eighty-two infertile women and twenty-five fertile controls were enrolled as per inclusion and exclusion criteria. Participants underwent Day2-5 hormonal assessment (AMH, FSH, LH, E2), Antral Follicle Count (AFC), and FSHR genotyping using PCR-RFLP for Thr307Ala (rs6165) and Asn680Ser (rs6166). Ovulation induction with letrozole was given for maximum four cycles. Results: No significant difference was found in distribution of FSHR genotypes or allele frequencies between infertile and fertile women. Genotype frequencies were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium except for Asn680Ser (rs6166) in controls. Ovarian reserve parameters did not significantly differ across genotypes, except for higher AMH in fertile controls with AA genotype of Thr307Ala (rs6165) (p = 0.017) and higher AFC among cases (p=0.0001). Letrozole-induced ovulation and pregnancy rates (12%) were comparable across all genotypes. Conclusion: FSHR polymorphisms Thr307Ala (rs6165) and Asn680Ser (rs6166) do not significantly influence ovarian reserve markers or clinical outcomes in infertile Indian women undergoing ovulation induction. Further studies with larger, ethnically diverse populations and controlled ovarian stimulation protocols are warranted.
Copyright (c) 2025 Anupama Bahadur, Manisha Naithani, Shivashish Dobhal, Priyanka R, Gupchee Singh, Shalinee Rao, Jai Bhagwan Sharma http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Human Resource Challenges and Service Delivery in Indian Public Health Centres: A Case Study of Nagpur District
Primary Health Centres (PHCs) are pivotal in delivering healthcare services to rural populations in India. However, challenges in human resources significantly impact their efficiency. A descriptive study was conducted across 16 talukas in Nagpur district, Maharashtra, covering a population of 772,601. Data were collected using structured questionnaires focusing on infrastructure, accessibility, human resources, and patient care quality. Findings revealed substantial deficits in specialized medical staff, inconsistent availability of medicines, and limited training programs. Despite infrastructural setups, service delivery was compromised due to understaffing and inadequate resource allocation. Addressing human resource challenges is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of PHCs. Policy reforms focusing on mandatory rural postings, improved funding allocation, and enhanced training for medical personnel are recommended.
Copyright (c) 2025 Subramaniam Iyer http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Breaking the Cycle: A Case of Child Maltreatment in a Problem Family
Child maltreatment is a masked evil with multiple social phenomena influencing it. One in four adults reported having faced any form of maltreatment during their childhood. VACS (Violence Against Children and Youth Survey) reported that 23-54 % of children disclose their incidents of maltreatment, and of them, 25 % seek any help. Social factors such as caregivers’ educational status, Socioeconomic status, past experiences, low social support, and addictions pile up to form a problem family that lags behind the standard norms of the community. Children in such problem families may face challenges in cognitive development, academics, mental health, and forming healthy peer relationships due to instability and trauma. This case describes the negligence of the family, community, and administrative side in dealing with a case of child maltreatment.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr Beenit Kumar Jena, Dr Swosti Kiran, Dr. Reshma Asokakumar Salini, Dr. Prajna Paramita Giri http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Workplace Holistic Health & Wellness: Primary care program to address lifestyle disorders
The global upsurge in lifestyle diseases, constituting 74% of global fatalities, poses a critical threat. No communicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular conditions and diabetes, are increasingly burdening low- and middle-income countries. To address this, integrating primary healthcare with public health strategies, as advocated by the 1978 Alma-Ata Declaration, is essential. This approach emphasizes community participation and equitable access to care. Moreover, adopting a holistic wellness paradigm—encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual well-being—extends beyond the traditional definitions of health Such integration fosters sustainable, community-centered health systems capable of effectively managing the NCD crisis. A historical perspective on wellness and its roots in ancient Indian practices, including yoga and Ayurveda, underscores its significance. A wellness program, as a primary care strategy, addresses lifestyle diseases by promoting awareness and preventing diseases before complications arise. Understanding and fostering different dimensions of wellness—physical, spiritual, occupational, financial, environmental and mental well being—become pivotal. Amid global health challenges, recognizing well-being's various aspects becomes essential for individual and societal flourishing. The study proposes a workplace wellness model, emphasizing its positive impact on individual and organizational productivity. Implementation among university students aims to improve academic and social performances, creating a healthier youth community. The model integrates regular wellness sessions, screening for NCDs, and evidence-based lifestyle management, with future intensive studies required for validation. This effort aims to instill the belief that wellness is not a destination but a way of life, fostering a healthier and more resilient future.
Copyright (c) 2025 Santosh Kumar, Anubhuti joshi , kanchan Gupta http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Mainstreaming Reproductive Mental Health of Women: The Unmet Need of the Hour
While the existing research is limited, over recent years, there has been growing awareness to understand the mental health of women during menstruation, menopause, and postpartum. A woman's distinct reproductive life stages adversely affect her psychological well-being, aggravated by other underlying social, economic, and cultural factors. Drawing upon the analysis of governing laws and women’s reproductive health literature, the existing reproductive health law, educational, and workplace frameworks in India are inadequate for supporting the reproductive mental health of women. It is of critical importance to adopt a holistic approach and call for mainstreaming the reproductive mental health of women through urgent legal and healthcare reforms.
Copyright (c) 2025 Chaitra V http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Facilitating acquisition of critical thinking skills using jigsaw instructional method
For a successful professional career as a medical practitioner, it is vital that students must be trained in critical thinking during their period of undergraduate training. Critical thinking enables students and healthcare professionals to analyze clinical features, comprehend patient history, and prescribe specific laboratory or radiological tests to reach a correct diagnosis. The employment of the jigsaw method in theory or clinical training plays a crucial role in the acquisition of critical thinking skills by medical students. In conclusion, the employment of the jigsaw method for teaching-learning as one of the pedagogical approaches in medical training is crucial in the development of critical thinking skills. It is the need of the hour that medical teachers understand its scope and significance and utilize this approach to develop and refine critical thinking among medical students and thereby empower them for their future clinical practice.
Copyright (c) 2025 Saurabh Shrivastava, Prateek Bobhate, Harshal Mendhe http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Prevalence, pattern and determinants of tobacco and alcohol use among construction site workers in Dehradun, Uttarakhand
Background: The construction industry is large in India, employing millions of workers. The workers in the construction industry have a higher rate of tobacco and alcohol use. The objective of the study was to find the prevalence, pattern, and determinants of tobacco and alcohol among construction workers and to give them health education to improve their health and safety. Methods: A Cross-sectional study was conducted at a construction site in Dehradun, Uttarakhand on 401 study participants, using a pre-designed and pre-tested Schedule. The participants were interviewed after obtaining their consent. Sociodemographic and other data about tobacco and alcohol use were taken from them. The data was analysed and frequency and proportions were calculated for categorical variables. Chi-square test of significance was applied for testing the associations of variables with tobacco and alcohol use. Results: Prevalence of tobacco use was 73%, and alcohol was 38.4%. The prevalence of combined tobacco and alcohol use was 33.7%. Age, gender, marital status and education were found to be significantly associated with tobacco use as well as with alcohol use. Duration of work was significantly associated with tobacco use and religion with alcohol use. Conclusion: The high prevalence of Tobacco and alcohol use by the study participants warrants strong measures so that the youth of India stay protected. Targeted interventions are needed to decrease the use of tobacco and alcohol by construction workers to safeguard their health.
Copyright (c) 2025 Neha Upadhyai, Kajal Gupta, Amit Mittal http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice on Antimicrobial Stewardship Between Medical Students and CRRIs
Purpose/Aim: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a substantial global health risk, especially in developing countries where misuse of antibiotics and insufficient management increase the increase in resistance. This study intended to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors (KAP) concerning antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) among undergraduate medical students at a tertiary care hospital in South India. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed including 518 medical students from various academic years during April and July 2024. Data were gathered by a standardized questionnaire evaluating knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning AMS. Statistical analysis was conducted to assess KAP levels and variations between academic years. Results: The knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) evaluation was conducted across the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, final year medical students and CRMI. The study revealed a notable enhancement in knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) grades with regard to practice of antimicrobial stewardship, higher within CRRIs. Conclusion A noticeable gap exists between AMS knowledge and its implementation across medical students. Improved practical training and curricular incorporation are essential for improving stewardship skills and mitigate antimicrobial resistance.
Copyright (c) 2025 Anto Clement http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Psychiatric morbidities and substance use disorders (SUDs) among youth (11-24 years): A Hospital based cross sectional survey during COVID pandemic from North West, India.
Background: Epidemiological studies indicate an association between substance use disorder (SUDs) and psychiatric morbidity. Knowledge is still scarce about mental health and psychiatric morbidities among youth with substance use disorders (SUDs) during Covid pandemic. Materials and method: This cross-sectional study was conducted among youth (11-24 years) who were attending the OPD in a tertiary care teaching hospital as a patient or an accompanying attendant to the patient. Psychiatric morbidity was measured by using of Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21). Results: The results revealed that 20% of the youth were drug users. Among drug users, depression, anxiety and stress were present in 18.51% in comparison to 3.24% among non-users. Age, gender, residence, literacy levels and monthly family income were significantly associated with drug abuse (p<0.05). Conclusion: Results of this study have revealed significant association between psychiatric morbidities and substance use. Among the psychiatric morbidities, anxiety and stress were found to be the most common among drug users. It would be safe to conclude that role of Covid pandemic for increased anxiety and stress among the SUDs.
Copyright (c) 2025 ANUJ KAPOOR, Bhavna Langer, Rajiv K Gupta http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Mental Health: A Comprehensive Review
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming mental health care by enabling scalable, personalized, and timely interventions across diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. This review explores the integration of machine learning, natural language processing, and conversational agents in mental health services between 2020 and 2025. Key applications include digital phenotyping, chatbot-assisted therapy, and clinical decision support systems, each offering new opportunities while raising concerns around equity, ethics, and transparency. Human-centered design and stakeholder engagement are emphasized to enhance usability and trust. The paper also examines ethical challenges such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, lack of clinical validation, and unclear accountability, particularly for underserved populations. Recommendations include robust regulatory frameworks, inclusive development practices, and continuous monitoring to ensure safe and effective deployment. Greater investment in open-access tools and training for clinicians is also advocated to reduce disparities and promote digital inclusion. Future directions call for the development of multimodal AI systems, cross-sector collaboration, and the establishment of field-specific ethical guidelines. While AI holds transformative potential, its success hinges on responsible implementation that complements rather than replaces-human empathy and clinical judgment in mental health care.
Copyright (c) 2025 Purushottam Giri, Ashwini Katole, Dr Anupriya Jha http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Reaffirming the Scientific Purpose of Medical Journals: Concerns over The Lancet’s Coverage of Indian Medical Education
We critically examine the editorial “Corruption scandal engulfs Indian medical education,” published in The Lancet (July 19, 2025). While recognizing The Lancet’s global reputation and historic contributions to medical science, we express concern over its departure from core scientific principles. Five key issues are highlighted. First, the editorial diverges from the journal’s stated mission of advancing medical science by focusing on unverified criminal allegations rather than scientific evidence. Second, the headline is assumptive and biased, suggesting systemic collapse without due process, thereby conflicting with the principle of “innocent until proven guilty.” Third, the framing reflects sensationalism over scientific objectivity, risking erosion of the journal’s credibility. Fourth, the portrayal of events as systemic failure disregards the demonstrated capacity of Indian medical regulatory bodies to self-correct, as evidenced by ongoing investigations and administrative actions by the National Medical Commission. Finally, the publication provides no novel scientific data, empirical evidence, or educational insights, limiting its relevance to scholarly discourse while potentially interfering with legal proceedings. We conclude that such publications may undermine The Lancet’s scientific standing and call for reaffirmation of rigorous editorial standards focused on research, clinical evidence, and innovation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr Rishabh Kumar Rana , Krupal Joshi, Sanjay Singhal, Umesh Kapil http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Towards Healthy Tribal Communities: A Comprehensive Commentary on Initiatives in India
Tribal people also called as Indigenous people have diverse languages, cultures, traditional practices or rituals, and customs that distinguish them from the rest of the civic world. Although there are around 104 million tribal people in India they have remained socio-demographically and geographically distant and suffer from various health ailments from communicable diseases like Malaria Tuberculosis and malnutrition to increasing burden of non-communicable diseases like Hypertension and Diabetes. The various health parameters and indicators remain below the National average. The detailed report of Expert committee on tribal health has led the way for various Government ministries and departments to work on addressing the disparity in Tribal health. Various International and national Non-governmental institutions and Community based organisations are also working towards Tribal health along with academia and research institutions. This article summarizes all the initiatives and efforts being undertaken in India by all the stakeholders along with updates on some recent initiatives to understand the holistic efforts towards achieving Holistic Tribal development and how medical colleges can complement these efforts.
Copyright (c) 2025 Abhishek Joshi, Juhi Raut, Abhay Mudey http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Bridging Education and Emotion: Teachers' Role in Supporting Student Mental Health
Dear editor, I write to express my concern and highlight regarding the mental well-being of children, the significant role played by school teachers and their literacy levels in shaping students' mental health. Childhood and adolescence are key developmental phases for mental health. During this phase, Children and adolescents acquire cognitive and social-emotional skills that shape their future mental health and are important for assuming adult roles in society. (1) According to Malhotra et al., the prevalence rate of mental health issues in children and teenagers in India was determined to be 23.33% in school and 6.46% in the community.(2) According to the World Health Organization, most mental health disorders begin to emerge around the age of 14. Teens are more vulnerable to the risk of developing mental health problems due to several factors, such as developmental changes in the brain, academic stress, lack of emotional support, poor nutrition, lack of physical-activity, excessive use of digital devices fluctuations in hormones, environmental influences, and social pressures. (3) Research indicates that mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and behavioural disorders can significantly impact students' ability to learn, engage in school activities, and maintain positive relationships with peers and teachers .(4) Teachers play a crucial role in identifying early signs of mental health concerns among students. As frontline educators, they are often the first point of contact for students experiencing emotional distress or behavioural difficulties .(5) Evidence shows that the quality of student-teacher relationships significantly influences students’ psychological well-being. A study by Longobardi et al., 2021found that positive teacher-student relationships are linked with reduced levels of anxiety, depression, and behavioural problems among school-aged children. (6) Without proper training or institutional support, the emotional burdens carried by both teachers and students are often neglected. Recommendations: Incorporate child psychology and mental health literacy into teacher training curricula. Strengthen foundational literacy programs in primary education to boost confidence and reduce academic stress. Train Teachers to recognize early warning signs and respond empathetically. Schools should embed Social- emotional Learning into the curriculum to build emotional resilience and interpersonal skills among students. Every school should have access to qualified mental health professionals to support both teachers and students. Way forward: A collaborative effort is essential involving educators, parents, mental health professionals, and policymakers. Schools must shift from a purely academic focus to a more holistic approach that prioritizes emotional resilience and psychological safety. As children spend most of their formative years in classrooms, the educational system must evolve to become a bastion of support, not stress. Raising awareness and initiating structured reform in school environments will not only improve academic outcomes but also foster healthier, more emotionally stable future generations.
Copyright (c) 2025 malar ilango, Mohan Prem Kumar R, Lalithambigai C http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Social Media Use Among the Elderly: Balancing Benefits and Risks
In India, with rising internet access, even senior citizens are increasingly using social platforms . It offers benefits like improved social connection, emotional support, and access to health information and entertainment. However, excessive use can lead to physical problems (like eye strain, poor sleep), psychological issues (anxiety, depression), addiction, and privacy risks. To maximize benefits and reduce harms, strategies like time limits, physical activity, digital literacy, offline interaction, and mental health support are recommended.infact they should be engaged in activities which is involving both elderly and kids so both should be away from Internet.
Copyright (c) 2025 Kajal Srivastava, Dr.hetal k rathod http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0