Malathi G Nayak - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Malathi G Nayak

F1000Research

Aim: To determine the effectiveness of capacity building program on palliative care (PC) in enhan... more Aim: To determine the effectiveness of capacity building program on palliative care (PC) in enhancing the capacity of the primary health care workers in need assessment and symptom management of cancer patients. Background: In India, less than one percent of people living with cancer have access to palliative care since most are from low- and middle-income groups. Accredited social health activist (ASHA) and primary health care workers are grassroots workers who are the first contact with family members and are seldom aware of PC in India. It is essential to train them to give practical and efficient care to needy people. Design: A quasi-experimental design with follow-up will be conducted using an evaluative approach. Methods: The study population consists of 1440 Primary Health Care Workers (staff nurses, ANMs, and ASHA workers) of three taluks of Udupi District, Karnataka State, India. Training on PC will be provided for ASHA workers for one day and ANM/Staff nurses for three da...

Indian Journal of Palliative Care

Indian Journal of Palliative Care, 2011

Breast cancer accounts for 19-34% of all cancer cases among women in India. There is high mortali... more Breast cancer accounts for 19-34% of all cancer cases among women in India. There is high mortality due to late stage diagnosis as patients usually present at an advanced stage because of lack of awareness and nonexistent breast cancer screening programs. Early detection and prompt treatment offer the greatest chance of long-term survival and breast self-examination (BSE) seems to be a important viable optional substitute for early detection of cancer. 1) To assess the level of knowledge of degree college female students on BSE. 2) To determine the effectiveness of planned teaching program among degree college female students on BSE. 3) To find the association between pretest knowledge and selected demographic variables. Pre-experimental one group pretestpost-test design was carried out among 40 degree female students by using cluster sampling method from selected colleges of Udupi district. The data analyzed showed that majority (52%) of them was in the age group of 18-19 years and 72% of them were had average knowledge on BSE in the pretest score. Out of 40 participants only one student was performing BSE occasionally. Awareness regarding breast self examination among young generations is useful and it is the most important viable tool for early detection.

International Journal of Nursing Education, 2013

Objectives: The study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of teaching through lecture cum d... more Objectives: The study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of teaching through lecture cum demonstration on first aid for selected minor injuries among Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA). Materials and Method: Evaluative approach was used with pre experimental one group pre test post test design. Results: Majority 63.3% the sample were serving as ASHA since 1-2 years, majority 83.3% of them had no previous experience of giving first aid and 100% of them had obtained information about first aid through various sources, majority 93.3% of them had not attended any training on first aid. Study found that the middle most 50% post-test knowledge scores were higher than the pre-test knowledge score indicating the significant improvement in the knowledge (z=6.755, p=0.001) on first aid and improvement in skills in first aid for open wounds, closed fracture of the arm, snake bite, dog bite and bee sting (z= 6.771 , 6.786, 6.801, 6.834, 6.818 respectively at p=0.001) after teaching through lecture cum demonstration. Conclusion: Lecture cum demonstration on first aid measures was effective in enhancing the knowledge and skills of ASHA.

Background:Disasters in modern times have transcended borders of nation, class and have devastati... more Background:Disasters in modern times have transcended borders of nation, class and have devastating impact in terms of human and material losses. Global initiatives for disaster preparedness and reduction should therefore be given highest priority by the international community. Various types of disasters, natural as well as manmade are faced by human beings since beginning of human evolution. As disasters cannot be prevented, contingency planning for disaster management involving preparedness is essential Objectives:To assess the existing knowledge on disaster preparedness among adults, determine the effectiveness of a video in terms of improvement in knowledge and compliance on families’ disaster preparedness kit, find relationship between knowledge and compliance on disaster preparedness kit. Materials and Methods:One group pretest posttest experimental design with video as intervention was used to get the data from 60 adults using structured questionnaire and observation checkli...

Background: According to World Health Assembly resolution in 2000, food safety has increasingly b... more Background: According to World Health Assembly resolution in 2000, food safety has increasingly become a global issue. The knowledge and practice of food handlers on food safety plays an important role here. The proper training of the food handlers helps to prevent food borne illnesses to a great extent. But the training provided for the food handlers are very less and the reviews shown that even though many restaurants are emerging day by day, the training for proper practice of safe handling of food is inadequate. Objective: The study was conducted to assess the knowledge and practice of food handlers on food safety and to determine the effectiveness of an information booklet on food safety among food handlers. Materials and methods: Two phase study - descriptive survey design in phase I and one group pre-test post-test design in phase II was used. Data were collected from 234 restaurant employees by using structured questionnaire on food safety for assessing the knowledge and pra...

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus and thyroid diseases are two common endocrinopathies seen in the ... more Introduction: Diabetes mellitus and thyroid diseases are two common endocrinopathies seen in the general population. The aim of the present study was to study the relation between thyroid dysfunction and diabetes mellitus among the diabetic patients attending Kasturba Hospital, Manipal. Materials and Methods: A retrospective case control study was conducted among 124 diabetic patients who attended Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, a tertiary referral hospital of south Karnataka. The diabetic patients with normal thyroid functions were considered as control subjects and diabetic patients with abnormal thyroid functions as cases. Results: The proportion of hypothyroidism among diabetic females was higher than in males in the study population. There was a significant risk for development of hypertension among the diabetic patients having thyroid dysfunction. There was no significant association between diabetic complications and thyroid dysfunction. There was no significant association betwe...

International Journal of Advanced Science and Research, 2016

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most challenging health problems in the 21st cen... more Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most challenging health problems in the 21st century and the third major cause of death globally. From year 2000 to 2012, 1.5 million deaths have been occurred due to diabetes mellitus and its complications. (WHO, 2014). Objectives of the study were to assess the signs and symptoms of complications of diabetes among type 2 diabetes mellitus adults. Methods: A descriptive survey was conducted among 127 diabetic adults who were resided at selected villages of Udupi district. The sample were selected based on purposive sampling technique and Tools used were demographic proforma and tool for assessment of signs and symptoms of diabetic nephropathy and neuropathy and data was obtained by interview and performed certain Bio-physiological tests. Results: Out of127 sample most (47.2%) of the sample had the sugar in the urine, around17.3 % of them had albumin in the urine, around 33.9% felt sometimes the symptom of postural hypotension, about 15.7% often had symptom of tingling or burning sensation in the lower extremities, around 19.7% felt sometimes the symptom of severe nocturnal leg pains, only1.6 % of them had the symptom of diarrhea during night time. Around 4.7% had the sign of coldness of extremities, around 4.7% had loss of sensation to touch and vibration only 2.4% of them had the sign of loss of sensation to cold. Conclusion: Through the assessment of signs and symptoms of these complications and creating awareness among diabetic adults regarding prevention and management of complications useful to maintain their health status well.

Introduction : The people who are involved with prolonged sitting or standing in their day to day... more Introduction : The people who are involved with prolonged sitting or standing in their day to day activities tend to have an increased risk for varicose veins. The objective of the study was to identify the symptoms of varicose veins among security guards. Methods : A cross sectional study was done among 150 security guards working in Udupi district with a minimum one year of service as security guard was included in the study. Samples were selected by systematic random sampling. Interview and observational method was used to identify the symptoms. Results : Out of 150 security guards, 6% (9) had pain in the legs always, 7.3% (11) had burning sensation, 15.3% (23) had ankle swelling, 11.3% (17) had heavy feeling in legs, 18.7% (28) had skin discoloration in the legs, 20% (30) had the change in skin integrity, 9.3% (14) had the feeling of pain though the remedial measures are taken, 10% (15) had the feeling of pain worsening, 13.3% (20) had the itching around one or more veins, 16....

A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted in view to assess the factors contributing to t... more A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted in view to assess the factors contributing to the occupational health probl ems among fisher women working in fish processing Industries. A 250 samples were selected by simple random sampling technique from five different fish processing industries of Udupi district. The data was collected by using self - reported structured questionnaire and an observational check list was developed to identify the factors contributing to the occupational health problems among fisher women working in fish processing industries. The result shows that out of 250 sample 220(88%) reported of having experienced musculoskeletal symptoms and major factors were faulty body posture (100%), repetitive activity (100%), work environment (75%) and instrument (50%) contributed for the development of occupational health problems. The study concludes that women working in fish processing industries are prone to develop various occupational health problems and strat...

Indian Journal of Public Health Research & Development, 2020

Journal of Health and Allied Sciences NU, 2012

Introduction: Every society has its own traditional beliefs and practices related to health care.... more Introduction: Every society has its own traditional beliefs and practices related to health care. Some practices are effective whereas others may be harmful or ineffective. These beliefs and practices are linked to culture, environment and education. Health workers must have concern for the community's cultural values and beliefs so that they can utilize the harmless practices for effective use as well as eliminate harmful practices. Objectives of the study were to explore the adults perception on health and illness, Identify the health care seeking behavior and to find the relationship between perceptions on health and illness with the study variables. Method: Explorative cross sectional survey study was conducted among rural adults in the selected villages of Udupi district. The study subjects (75) were interviewed through a questionnaire and selected by purposive sampling Results: Data shows that majority (52.9%) of them were in the age group of 20-40 years and most (76.6%) o...

Indian Journal of Palliative Care, 2020

The WHO selected 2020 to recognize the work of nurses and midwives because it is the bicentenary ... more The WHO selected 2020 to recognize the work of nurses and midwives because it is the bicentenary of the birth of the founder of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale. It has been demonstrated amply now as the nurses are the largest sector of health-care workers in every country, playing a pivotal role in response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic worldwide. Every day, nurses are working tirelessly by leaving their homes to assist the sick, allay community fears, and address concerns. This article is written by interviewing the staff nurses working in the wards/outpatient departments of a reputed palliative care center in Karnataka State, reviewing the recent nurses' blogs, editorial commentaries, WHO guidelines, CDC guidelines, and recent short communications on COVID-19 pandemic. The authors in this article attempted to address the palliative care challenges and strategies for the management during the COVID-19 pandemic in India.

Journal of Health and Allied Sciences NU, 2013

Prevalence of type 2 diabetes is increasing globally, more so in developing countries like India ... more Prevalence of type 2 diabetes is increasing globally, more so in developing countries like India due to rapid urbanization. Health-related behavior is important in maintaining health and which is determined by individual beliefs and practice about health and illness.The objectives of the study were to assess the health beliefs among diabetic adults on management of diabetes mellitus and to find the association between the health beliefs and study variable.A descriptive cross sectional survey conducted among 125 diabetic adults, data collected by using structured questionnaire.The study finding reveals that out of 125 diabetic adults, the majorities 49.6% were in the age group of 46-55 years, 51.2% were believed that diabetes caused by eating more sugar and 81.6% disagree that it's God's curse, 30% of diabetic adults agree with the statement that diabetes is because of past sin, 28% of subjects believe that it's a communicable disease. There was significant association be...

Journal of Health and Allied Sciences NU, 2014

Introduction : Vaginal candidiasis common problem among pregnant women. According to Jumbo G.T.A ... more Introduction : Vaginal candidiasis common problem among pregnant women. According to Jumbo G.T.A et al., during pregnancy women who did not know Candidiasis as a disease were 94.1% and 83.6% of the respondents felt there was no compelling need for treatment 1 while 86.3% did not consider the disease of any serious clinical significance. Objective : This study was conducted to find the effectiveness of an awareness programme on prevention of vaginal candidiasis among pregnant women in selected seven Rural Maternity Child Welfare centres (RMCW's) of Udupi district. Materials and Method : Evaluative survey approach was used to find the effectiveness of awareness program. The sampling technique used was non probability convenient sampling. Total of 142 pregnant women those who visited antenatal clinics of RMCW's were selected. One group pre-test-post-test design was used to assess the knowledge by administering a structured knowledge questionnaire, followed by awareness program. On seventh day post-test was conducted using same questionnaire to evaluate the knowledge of the subject. Result: Majority of the pregnant women (89.2%) had poor knowledge in pre-test whereas 95.8% of them acquired a good knowledge in post-test. Conclusion: Health professionals caring for pregnant women should find out about symptoms of vaginal candidiasis and they can give them knowledge and make aware, which may help them in improving their health by adopting preventive measures and help them to avoid the complications.

Journal of Health and Allied Sciences NU, 2013

Background: The knowledge of health seeking behavior is pivotal for prevention, treatment, manage... more Background: The knowledge of health seeking behavior is pivotal for prevention, treatment, management of disease and promotion of health. Proper understanding of those health seeking behaviors could reduce delay to diagnosis, improve treatment compliance and improve health promotion strategies in a variety of contexts. Objectives: to assess the health seeking behavior among rural adults towards private and public health care facilities in case of selected health problems, to find the association between health seeking behavior and selected demographic variables. Materials and Methods: A descriptive survey was done among 260 rural adults by using self administered rating scale questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for the analysis. Results: Among the 260 samples 28.8% were having positive health seeking behavior towards government health care facilities. Majority of the sample i.e. 71.2% were having negative health seeking behavior towards government health ...

Indian Journal of Public Health Research & Development, 2018

Background: Adolescence is a crucial phase of growth extending from puberty to adulthood spanning... more Background: Adolescence is a crucial phase of growth extending from puberty to adulthood spanning much of the second decade. It is the critical period of biological and psychosocial changes. They lack adequate knowledge about the physical changes during the pubertal period and which in turn leads to undue anxiety. Objectives: The objectives of the study were to assess the knowledge, perception, psycho social preparedness for menarche and the problems experienced by the adolescent girls. Methods: A descriptive survey study was conducted among 200 adolescents aged 11-13 years from 10 higher primary schools of Udupi district. Adolescents who met the sampling criteria were selected by purposive sampling. Structured questionnaire was used to assess the knowledge on menarche. A rating scale was used to assess the perception, psychosocial preparedness towards menarche and predesigned questionnaire was used to assess the problems experienced at the time of menstruation. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. Results: Results shows that, out of 200 adolescents, 88% of the adolescents had average knowledge, 95.5% had negative perception, most of them 52.5% were well prepared for menarche. The most common problems experienced by the adolescents were abdominal pain (75%), heavy bleeding (73.5%) and white discharge few days before menstruation. Conclusion: Social prohibitions and restrictions from attaining religious rituals have created a negative impact on adolescents and have blocked the access to the right kind of information. Therefore much more efforts are needed to curb the misbeliefs and taboos among the adolescent school girls.

Indian Journal of Public Health Research & Development, 2018

Introduction: As per WHO report 2016, the diabetes epidemic is rapidly increasing in low- and mid... more Introduction: As per WHO report 2016, the diabetes epidemic is rapidly increasing in low- and middleincome countries. A Large number of deaths due to complications of diabetes. Family members have an important role on a patient’s psychological well-being, treatment, follow up, to maintain diet and exercise1. The family members can actively involve in providing care for patients with diabetes2. Family support was associated with decrease in diabetes related distress3. Aim- to assess the knowledge on diabetes and to determine the support of family members given in providing care to the diabetic adults. Material and method: A descriptive survey design was carried out among 150 diabetic adults and their family caregivers in order to assess the knowledge and support of family members in management of diabetes. Adults who were aged above 45 years, diagnosed & on anti-diabetic treatment for at least one year were included in the study. A non-probability purposive sampling was used to collect the data from diabetic adult and their family members at 1:1 ratio by using structured and validated questionnaire. Result: Out of 150 diabetics, 49 (33%) of them were in the age group 51-55 years, 85 (57%) of them had a family history of diabetes, 57 (38 %) of them were suffering with deformities from 6 to 10 years. Most of them i.e. 86(57%) had average knowledge on disease condition and sixty two percent of family members were encouraged to take medication as prescribed by the physician. Conclusion: This study observed that the rural people had an average level of knowledge on diabetes. Patients require continuous support from family members to bring about a changes in their lifestyle.

Indian Journal of Palliative Care, 2019

Introduction: Quality of life (QOL) should be considered as the main outcome measure for patient ... more Introduction: Quality of life (QOL) should be considered as the main outcome measure for patient with advanced cancer. QOL of cancer patients is affected by several factors. Objectives: The objective of the study was to assess the symptom interference and the relation between the domains of QOL among cancer patients. Methodology: An exploratory survey conducted among 768 patients diagnosed as Stage III or IV of cancer of breast/cervix/head and neck/gastrointestinal tract/lung/colorectal. Data were collected using pretested reliable structured interview questionnaire. Results: Out of 768 cancer patients, symptoms burden was interfered completely in their relationship with others among 445 (57.9%), sleep among 491 (63.9%), and QOL among 433 (56.4%). The domains of QOL were general well-being, physical well-being, psychological well-being, familial relationship, sexual and personal abilities, cognitive well-being, economic well-being, informational support, doctors' cooperation, and body image. Since the data were not following the normal distribution, Spearman rho was computed to assess the relationship between the domains. The data revealed that there is a positive statistically significant correlation between the domains of general well-being of the participants with physical wellbeing (r = 0.265, P = 0.001), psychological well-being (r = 0.195, P = 0.001), sexual and personal abilities (r = 0.278, P = 0.001), and body image (r = 0.168, P = 0.001). The study inferred that cancer patients with good cognitive well-being and high economic status had a sense of positive body image. Conclusion: Cancer patients have poor QOL in physical and psychological domains. QOL of patients is affected by the symptoms suffering during the treatment and diagnosis. Symptoms need to be managed effectively to improve the QOL of cancer patients.

Indian Journal of Palliative Care, 2018

IntroductIon Family caregivers experience psychosocial distress while caring for cancer patients.... more IntroductIon Family caregivers experience psychosocial distress while caring for cancer patients. Usually, terminally ill patients spend their end stages of life at home being cared for by their families, without formal homecare services. [1] The caregivers experience many barriers to manage the symptoms experienced by their beloved one who is suffering from cancers. Fear of addiction may be the main barrier to cancer pain management. [2] Depression among caregivers is mainly due to the fear of unemployment during caregiving, being the spouse of a patient, burden of caregiving, and disturbance of personal life. [3] Family caregivers (FCGs) experience many difficulties and have increased responsibilities during and after the treatment for cancer. [4] Caregiver's sleep disturbances contribute to depression, anger, and anxiety. [5] The struggle with symptoms and the decreased quality of life (QOL) continue for the cancer survivors and their caregivers throughout their survival. [6] FCGs experience and struggle with many issues in taking care of the cancer patients, especially in symptom management. Increasing the knowledge of caregivers is more important for symptom management among the cancer patients. [7] Objectives of this study The following objectives were: • To identify the perceived barriers to symptom management among the FCGs by using perceived barriers to symptom management tool • To find the association between perceived barriers to symptom management of caregivers' with their Introduction: Caring for patients with advanced disease involves many concerns for caregivers. All aspects of health of the caregiver is compromised in the process of caring for the cancer patients. Usually, most of the terminally ill cancer patients live with their caregivers at home. Objectives: The aims of the present study was to identify the barriers to symptom management among caregivers of cancer patients and to find the association between perceived barriers to symptom management of caregivers' with their demographic variables and their patients' disease-related variables. Materials and Methods: A descriptive study was conducted among 768 family caregivers (FCGs) of cancer patients, and they were selected using convenient sampling technique. Data was collected from caregivers who were caring for their beloved one at least 2-3 h/day and who were above 20 years of age. Data was collected through a structured interview using barriers questionnaire and demographic pro forma after obtaining the consent from the caregivers. Results: The result shows that among 768 FCGs, 216 (28.1%) of them were in the age group between 31 and 40 years and most of them were spouses (45.6%). The perceived barriers of caregivers were less confidence on the management of symptoms. A total of 423 (55.1%) had lack of awareness about pain assessment and management of cancer by 681 (88.6%). Majority, i.e., 654 (85.1%) of them had financial problems in the family. Conclusion: FCGs take the major responsibilities both at the hospital and at home in caring for the cancer patients. Since FCGs had lack of knowledge on caring of cancer patients, there is a need for awareness program on the assessment and management of symptoms among cancer patients.

F1000Research

Aim: To determine the effectiveness of capacity building program on palliative care (PC) in enhan... more Aim: To determine the effectiveness of capacity building program on palliative care (PC) in enhancing the capacity of the primary health care workers in need assessment and symptom management of cancer patients. Background: In India, less than one percent of people living with cancer have access to palliative care since most are from low- and middle-income groups. Accredited social health activist (ASHA) and primary health care workers are grassroots workers who are the first contact with family members and are seldom aware of PC in India. It is essential to train them to give practical and efficient care to needy people. Design: A quasi-experimental design with follow-up will be conducted using an evaluative approach. Methods: The study population consists of 1440 Primary Health Care Workers (staff nurses, ANMs, and ASHA workers) of three taluks of Udupi District, Karnataka State, India. Training on PC will be provided for ASHA workers for one day and ANM/Staff nurses for three da...

Indian Journal of Palliative Care

Indian Journal of Palliative Care, 2011

Breast cancer accounts for 19-34% of all cancer cases among women in India. There is high mortali... more Breast cancer accounts for 19-34% of all cancer cases among women in India. There is high mortality due to late stage diagnosis as patients usually present at an advanced stage because of lack of awareness and nonexistent breast cancer screening programs. Early detection and prompt treatment offer the greatest chance of long-term survival and breast self-examination (BSE) seems to be a important viable optional substitute for early detection of cancer. 1) To assess the level of knowledge of degree college female students on BSE. 2) To determine the effectiveness of planned teaching program among degree college female students on BSE. 3) To find the association between pretest knowledge and selected demographic variables. Pre-experimental one group pretestpost-test design was carried out among 40 degree female students by using cluster sampling method from selected colleges of Udupi district. The data analyzed showed that majority (52%) of them was in the age group of 18-19 years and 72% of them were had average knowledge on BSE in the pretest score. Out of 40 participants only one student was performing BSE occasionally. Awareness regarding breast self examination among young generations is useful and it is the most important viable tool for early detection.

International Journal of Nursing Education, 2013

Objectives: The study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of teaching through lecture cum d... more Objectives: The study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of teaching through lecture cum demonstration on first aid for selected minor injuries among Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA). Materials and Method: Evaluative approach was used with pre experimental one group pre test post test design. Results: Majority 63.3% the sample were serving as ASHA since 1-2 years, majority 83.3% of them had no previous experience of giving first aid and 100% of them had obtained information about first aid through various sources, majority 93.3% of them had not attended any training on first aid. Study found that the middle most 50% post-test knowledge scores were higher than the pre-test knowledge score indicating the significant improvement in the knowledge (z=6.755, p=0.001) on first aid and improvement in skills in first aid for open wounds, closed fracture of the arm, snake bite, dog bite and bee sting (z= 6.771 , 6.786, 6.801, 6.834, 6.818 respectively at p=0.001) after teaching through lecture cum demonstration. Conclusion: Lecture cum demonstration on first aid measures was effective in enhancing the knowledge and skills of ASHA.

Background:Disasters in modern times have transcended borders of nation, class and have devastati... more Background:Disasters in modern times have transcended borders of nation, class and have devastating impact in terms of human and material losses. Global initiatives for disaster preparedness and reduction should therefore be given highest priority by the international community. Various types of disasters, natural as well as manmade are faced by human beings since beginning of human evolution. As disasters cannot be prevented, contingency planning for disaster management involving preparedness is essential Objectives:To assess the existing knowledge on disaster preparedness among adults, determine the effectiveness of a video in terms of improvement in knowledge and compliance on families’ disaster preparedness kit, find relationship between knowledge and compliance on disaster preparedness kit. Materials and Methods:One group pretest posttest experimental design with video as intervention was used to get the data from 60 adults using structured questionnaire and observation checkli...

Background: According to World Health Assembly resolution in 2000, food safety has increasingly b... more Background: According to World Health Assembly resolution in 2000, food safety has increasingly become a global issue. The knowledge and practice of food handlers on food safety plays an important role here. The proper training of the food handlers helps to prevent food borne illnesses to a great extent. But the training provided for the food handlers are very less and the reviews shown that even though many restaurants are emerging day by day, the training for proper practice of safe handling of food is inadequate. Objective: The study was conducted to assess the knowledge and practice of food handlers on food safety and to determine the effectiveness of an information booklet on food safety among food handlers. Materials and methods: Two phase study - descriptive survey design in phase I and one group pre-test post-test design in phase II was used. Data were collected from 234 restaurant employees by using structured questionnaire on food safety for assessing the knowledge and pra...

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus and thyroid diseases are two common endocrinopathies seen in the ... more Introduction: Diabetes mellitus and thyroid diseases are two common endocrinopathies seen in the general population. The aim of the present study was to study the relation between thyroid dysfunction and diabetes mellitus among the diabetic patients attending Kasturba Hospital, Manipal. Materials and Methods: A retrospective case control study was conducted among 124 diabetic patients who attended Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, a tertiary referral hospital of south Karnataka. The diabetic patients with normal thyroid functions were considered as control subjects and diabetic patients with abnormal thyroid functions as cases. Results: The proportion of hypothyroidism among diabetic females was higher than in males in the study population. There was a significant risk for development of hypertension among the diabetic patients having thyroid dysfunction. There was no significant association between diabetic complications and thyroid dysfunction. There was no significant association betwe...

International Journal of Advanced Science and Research, 2016

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most challenging health problems in the 21st cen... more Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most challenging health problems in the 21st century and the third major cause of death globally. From year 2000 to 2012, 1.5 million deaths have been occurred due to diabetes mellitus and its complications. (WHO, 2014). Objectives of the study were to assess the signs and symptoms of complications of diabetes among type 2 diabetes mellitus adults. Methods: A descriptive survey was conducted among 127 diabetic adults who were resided at selected villages of Udupi district. The sample were selected based on purposive sampling technique and Tools used were demographic proforma and tool for assessment of signs and symptoms of diabetic nephropathy and neuropathy and data was obtained by interview and performed certain Bio-physiological tests. Results: Out of127 sample most (47.2%) of the sample had the sugar in the urine, around17.3 % of them had albumin in the urine, around 33.9% felt sometimes the symptom of postural hypotension, about 15.7% often had symptom of tingling or burning sensation in the lower extremities, around 19.7% felt sometimes the symptom of severe nocturnal leg pains, only1.6 % of them had the symptom of diarrhea during night time. Around 4.7% had the sign of coldness of extremities, around 4.7% had loss of sensation to touch and vibration only 2.4% of them had the sign of loss of sensation to cold. Conclusion: Through the assessment of signs and symptoms of these complications and creating awareness among diabetic adults regarding prevention and management of complications useful to maintain their health status well.

Introduction : The people who are involved with prolonged sitting or standing in their day to day... more Introduction : The people who are involved with prolonged sitting or standing in their day to day activities tend to have an increased risk for varicose veins. The objective of the study was to identify the symptoms of varicose veins among security guards. Methods : A cross sectional study was done among 150 security guards working in Udupi district with a minimum one year of service as security guard was included in the study. Samples were selected by systematic random sampling. Interview and observational method was used to identify the symptoms. Results : Out of 150 security guards, 6% (9) had pain in the legs always, 7.3% (11) had burning sensation, 15.3% (23) had ankle swelling, 11.3% (17) had heavy feeling in legs, 18.7% (28) had skin discoloration in the legs, 20% (30) had the change in skin integrity, 9.3% (14) had the feeling of pain though the remedial measures are taken, 10% (15) had the feeling of pain worsening, 13.3% (20) had the itching around one or more veins, 16....

A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted in view to assess the factors contributing to t... more A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted in view to assess the factors contributing to the occupational health probl ems among fisher women working in fish processing Industries. A 250 samples were selected by simple random sampling technique from five different fish processing industries of Udupi district. The data was collected by using self - reported structured questionnaire and an observational check list was developed to identify the factors contributing to the occupational health problems among fisher women working in fish processing industries. The result shows that out of 250 sample 220(88%) reported of having experienced musculoskeletal symptoms and major factors were faulty body posture (100%), repetitive activity (100%), work environment (75%) and instrument (50%) contributed for the development of occupational health problems. The study concludes that women working in fish processing industries are prone to develop various occupational health problems and strat...

Indian Journal of Public Health Research & Development, 2020

Journal of Health and Allied Sciences NU, 2012

Introduction: Every society has its own traditional beliefs and practices related to health care.... more Introduction: Every society has its own traditional beliefs and practices related to health care. Some practices are effective whereas others may be harmful or ineffective. These beliefs and practices are linked to culture, environment and education. Health workers must have concern for the community's cultural values and beliefs so that they can utilize the harmless practices for effective use as well as eliminate harmful practices. Objectives of the study were to explore the adults perception on health and illness, Identify the health care seeking behavior and to find the relationship between perceptions on health and illness with the study variables. Method: Explorative cross sectional survey study was conducted among rural adults in the selected villages of Udupi district. The study subjects (75) were interviewed through a questionnaire and selected by purposive sampling Results: Data shows that majority (52.9%) of them were in the age group of 20-40 years and most (76.6%) o...

Indian Journal of Palliative Care, 2020

The WHO selected 2020 to recognize the work of nurses and midwives because it is the bicentenary ... more The WHO selected 2020 to recognize the work of nurses and midwives because it is the bicentenary of the birth of the founder of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale. It has been demonstrated amply now as the nurses are the largest sector of health-care workers in every country, playing a pivotal role in response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic worldwide. Every day, nurses are working tirelessly by leaving their homes to assist the sick, allay community fears, and address concerns. This article is written by interviewing the staff nurses working in the wards/outpatient departments of a reputed palliative care center in Karnataka State, reviewing the recent nurses' blogs, editorial commentaries, WHO guidelines, CDC guidelines, and recent short communications on COVID-19 pandemic. The authors in this article attempted to address the palliative care challenges and strategies for the management during the COVID-19 pandemic in India.

Journal of Health and Allied Sciences NU, 2013

Prevalence of type 2 diabetes is increasing globally, more so in developing countries like India ... more Prevalence of type 2 diabetes is increasing globally, more so in developing countries like India due to rapid urbanization. Health-related behavior is important in maintaining health and which is determined by individual beliefs and practice about health and illness.The objectives of the study were to assess the health beliefs among diabetic adults on management of diabetes mellitus and to find the association between the health beliefs and study variable.A descriptive cross sectional survey conducted among 125 diabetic adults, data collected by using structured questionnaire.The study finding reveals that out of 125 diabetic adults, the majorities 49.6% were in the age group of 46-55 years, 51.2% were believed that diabetes caused by eating more sugar and 81.6% disagree that it's God's curse, 30% of diabetic adults agree with the statement that diabetes is because of past sin, 28% of subjects believe that it's a communicable disease. There was significant association be...

Journal of Health and Allied Sciences NU, 2014

Introduction : Vaginal candidiasis common problem among pregnant women. According to Jumbo G.T.A ... more Introduction : Vaginal candidiasis common problem among pregnant women. According to Jumbo G.T.A et al., during pregnancy women who did not know Candidiasis as a disease were 94.1% and 83.6% of the respondents felt there was no compelling need for treatment 1 while 86.3% did not consider the disease of any serious clinical significance. Objective : This study was conducted to find the effectiveness of an awareness programme on prevention of vaginal candidiasis among pregnant women in selected seven Rural Maternity Child Welfare centres (RMCW's) of Udupi district. Materials and Method : Evaluative survey approach was used to find the effectiveness of awareness program. The sampling technique used was non probability convenient sampling. Total of 142 pregnant women those who visited antenatal clinics of RMCW's were selected. One group pre-test-post-test design was used to assess the knowledge by administering a structured knowledge questionnaire, followed by awareness program. On seventh day post-test was conducted using same questionnaire to evaluate the knowledge of the subject. Result: Majority of the pregnant women (89.2%) had poor knowledge in pre-test whereas 95.8% of them acquired a good knowledge in post-test. Conclusion: Health professionals caring for pregnant women should find out about symptoms of vaginal candidiasis and they can give them knowledge and make aware, which may help them in improving their health by adopting preventive measures and help them to avoid the complications.

Journal of Health and Allied Sciences NU, 2013

Background: The knowledge of health seeking behavior is pivotal for prevention, treatment, manage... more Background: The knowledge of health seeking behavior is pivotal for prevention, treatment, management of disease and promotion of health. Proper understanding of those health seeking behaviors could reduce delay to diagnosis, improve treatment compliance and improve health promotion strategies in a variety of contexts. Objectives: to assess the health seeking behavior among rural adults towards private and public health care facilities in case of selected health problems, to find the association between health seeking behavior and selected demographic variables. Materials and Methods: A descriptive survey was done among 260 rural adults by using self administered rating scale questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for the analysis. Results: Among the 260 samples 28.8% were having positive health seeking behavior towards government health care facilities. Majority of the sample i.e. 71.2% were having negative health seeking behavior towards government health ...

Indian Journal of Public Health Research & Development, 2018

Background: Adolescence is a crucial phase of growth extending from puberty to adulthood spanning... more Background: Adolescence is a crucial phase of growth extending from puberty to adulthood spanning much of the second decade. It is the critical period of biological and psychosocial changes. They lack adequate knowledge about the physical changes during the pubertal period and which in turn leads to undue anxiety. Objectives: The objectives of the study were to assess the knowledge, perception, psycho social preparedness for menarche and the problems experienced by the adolescent girls. Methods: A descriptive survey study was conducted among 200 adolescents aged 11-13 years from 10 higher primary schools of Udupi district. Adolescents who met the sampling criteria were selected by purposive sampling. Structured questionnaire was used to assess the knowledge on menarche. A rating scale was used to assess the perception, psychosocial preparedness towards menarche and predesigned questionnaire was used to assess the problems experienced at the time of menstruation. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. Results: Results shows that, out of 200 adolescents, 88% of the adolescents had average knowledge, 95.5% had negative perception, most of them 52.5% were well prepared for menarche. The most common problems experienced by the adolescents were abdominal pain (75%), heavy bleeding (73.5%) and white discharge few days before menstruation. Conclusion: Social prohibitions and restrictions from attaining religious rituals have created a negative impact on adolescents and have blocked the access to the right kind of information. Therefore much more efforts are needed to curb the misbeliefs and taboos among the adolescent school girls.

Indian Journal of Public Health Research & Development, 2018

Introduction: As per WHO report 2016, the diabetes epidemic is rapidly increasing in low- and mid... more Introduction: As per WHO report 2016, the diabetes epidemic is rapidly increasing in low- and middleincome countries. A Large number of deaths due to complications of diabetes. Family members have an important role on a patient’s psychological well-being, treatment, follow up, to maintain diet and exercise1. The family members can actively involve in providing care for patients with diabetes2. Family support was associated with decrease in diabetes related distress3. Aim- to assess the knowledge on diabetes and to determine the support of family members given in providing care to the diabetic adults. Material and method: A descriptive survey design was carried out among 150 diabetic adults and their family caregivers in order to assess the knowledge and support of family members in management of diabetes. Adults who were aged above 45 years, diagnosed & on anti-diabetic treatment for at least one year were included in the study. A non-probability purposive sampling was used to collect the data from diabetic adult and their family members at 1:1 ratio by using structured and validated questionnaire. Result: Out of 150 diabetics, 49 (33%) of them were in the age group 51-55 years, 85 (57%) of them had a family history of diabetes, 57 (38 %) of them were suffering with deformities from 6 to 10 years. Most of them i.e. 86(57%) had average knowledge on disease condition and sixty two percent of family members were encouraged to take medication as prescribed by the physician. Conclusion: This study observed that the rural people had an average level of knowledge on diabetes. Patients require continuous support from family members to bring about a changes in their lifestyle.

Indian Journal of Palliative Care, 2019

Introduction: Quality of life (QOL) should be considered as the main outcome measure for patient ... more Introduction: Quality of life (QOL) should be considered as the main outcome measure for patient with advanced cancer. QOL of cancer patients is affected by several factors. Objectives: The objective of the study was to assess the symptom interference and the relation between the domains of QOL among cancer patients. Methodology: An exploratory survey conducted among 768 patients diagnosed as Stage III or IV of cancer of breast/cervix/head and neck/gastrointestinal tract/lung/colorectal. Data were collected using pretested reliable structured interview questionnaire. Results: Out of 768 cancer patients, symptoms burden was interfered completely in their relationship with others among 445 (57.9%), sleep among 491 (63.9%), and QOL among 433 (56.4%). The domains of QOL were general well-being, physical well-being, psychological well-being, familial relationship, sexual and personal abilities, cognitive well-being, economic well-being, informational support, doctors' cooperation, and body image. Since the data were not following the normal distribution, Spearman rho was computed to assess the relationship between the domains. The data revealed that there is a positive statistically significant correlation between the domains of general well-being of the participants with physical wellbeing (r = 0.265, P = 0.001), psychological well-being (r = 0.195, P = 0.001), sexual and personal abilities (r = 0.278, P = 0.001), and body image (r = 0.168, P = 0.001). The study inferred that cancer patients with good cognitive well-being and high economic status had a sense of positive body image. Conclusion: Cancer patients have poor QOL in physical and psychological domains. QOL of patients is affected by the symptoms suffering during the treatment and diagnosis. Symptoms need to be managed effectively to improve the QOL of cancer patients.

Indian Journal of Palliative Care, 2018

IntroductIon Family caregivers experience psychosocial distress while caring for cancer patients.... more IntroductIon Family caregivers experience psychosocial distress while caring for cancer patients. Usually, terminally ill patients spend their end stages of life at home being cared for by their families, without formal homecare services. [1] The caregivers experience many barriers to manage the symptoms experienced by their beloved one who is suffering from cancers. Fear of addiction may be the main barrier to cancer pain management. [2] Depression among caregivers is mainly due to the fear of unemployment during caregiving, being the spouse of a patient, burden of caregiving, and disturbance of personal life. [3] Family caregivers (FCGs) experience many difficulties and have increased responsibilities during and after the treatment for cancer. [4] Caregiver's sleep disturbances contribute to depression, anger, and anxiety. [5] The struggle with symptoms and the decreased quality of life (QOL) continue for the cancer survivors and their caregivers throughout their survival. [6] FCGs experience and struggle with many issues in taking care of the cancer patients, especially in symptom management. Increasing the knowledge of caregivers is more important for symptom management among the cancer patients. [7] Objectives of this study The following objectives were: • To identify the perceived barriers to symptom management among the FCGs by using perceived barriers to symptom management tool • To find the association between perceived barriers to symptom management of caregivers' with their Introduction: Caring for patients with advanced disease involves many concerns for caregivers. All aspects of health of the caregiver is compromised in the process of caring for the cancer patients. Usually, most of the terminally ill cancer patients live with their caregivers at home. Objectives: The aims of the present study was to identify the barriers to symptom management among caregivers of cancer patients and to find the association between perceived barriers to symptom management of caregivers' with their demographic variables and their patients' disease-related variables. Materials and Methods: A descriptive study was conducted among 768 family caregivers (FCGs) of cancer patients, and they were selected using convenient sampling technique. Data was collected from caregivers who were caring for their beloved one at least 2-3 h/day and who were above 20 years of age. Data was collected through a structured interview using barriers questionnaire and demographic pro forma after obtaining the consent from the caregivers. Results: The result shows that among 768 FCGs, 216 (28.1%) of them were in the age group between 31 and 40 years and most of them were spouses (45.6%). The perceived barriers of caregivers were less confidence on the management of symptoms. A total of 423 (55.1%) had lack of awareness about pain assessment and management of cancer by 681 (88.6%). Majority, i.e., 654 (85.1%) of them had financial problems in the family. Conclusion: FCGs take the major responsibilities both at the hospital and at home in caring for the cancer patients. Since FCGs had lack of knowledge on caring of cancer patients, there is a need for awareness program on the assessment and management of symptoms among cancer patients.