Students' Supplement of Journal of Rawalpindi Medical College

Parental Awareness Regarding Ocular Disorders and Requisite Eye Care for Children of Parents Visiting RMU & Allied Hospitals

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Early detection and parental education regarding pediatric eye conditions and eye care are essential due to the serious consequences that can arise, as well as the availability of preventive measures. The purpose of this study was to assess parents' attitudes and degree of understanding regarding eye problems in children.

Objectives: To Assess Awareness, Knowledge & Practice Regarding Ocular Disorders and Requisite Eye Care of Children among the Parents Visiting RMU & Allied Hospitals.

Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out on a sample of 380 parents visiting RMU & Allied Hospitals. within a duration of 3 months by an interview-based questionnaire administered to only parents who had at least one child aged 15 or younger. The questionnaire had 4 parts: socio-demographic data, knowledge about eye care, knowledge about eye diseases, and eye care practices.

Results: A total of 380 parents participated in this research, out of which 98.1% had inadequate knowledge about eye care, and only 1.8% had adequate knowledge. Regarding symptoms that prompt parents to take their child to an eye specialist, eye redness had the highest percentage (47.1%), and the most common barrier in accessing eye care services is a doctor's fee (57.9%)

Conclusion: The findings of our study show that people have insufficient awareness regarding eye care and eye health, yet eye care practices are substantially better. Except for education, all demographic factors have an equitable distribution of knowledge about eye care. We need to enhance people's knowledge of eye health care to reduce the burden of eye disorders in our society and their accompanying consequences.

Keywords: Children, eye care, eye diseases, knowledge, practice, awareness.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Preventive Practices Regarding Diabetes Mellitus among Third Year MBBS Students at Rawalpindi Medical University: A Cross-sectional Study

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a prevalent non-communicable metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia due to insufficient insulin production or tissue insensitivity. DM is a global health concern. Understanding the Knowledge, Attitude, and Perception (KAP) among medical students is essential for developing effective educational strategies and improving future diabetes prevention and management.

Objectives: To assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and preventive practices regarding DM among third-year MBBS students and to identify gaps that may guide future public health interventions.

Materials and Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study assessed KAP regarding DM among third-year MBBS students. Using non-random convenience sampling, data were collected through a standardized questionnaire via Google Forms. Statistical analysis using SPSS version 26. Sample size was calculated using the OpenEpi with 95% confidence level, 50% prevalence, 5% margin of error, 375 population rates, and a design effect of 1.

Results: A total of 215 students participated, comprising 73% females. Most were aged 20-21 (69.8%), followed by 18-19 (27.9%) and 22-23 (2.3%). A positive attitude towards DM was reported by 98.6% of participants. Good preventive practices were observed in 78.1% of students. Additionally, 42% reported engaging in daily physical activity for 30–60 minutes, whereas only 0.9% regularly monitored their blood glucose levels.

Conclusion: Most medical students demonstrated good knowledge and a positive attitude. However, preventive practices were slightly lower (78.1%). Emphasizing such practices could improve their readiness to manage DM in future clinical practices.

Keywords: Knowledge, Attitude, Primary Prevention, Diabetes Mellitus, Medical Students

Study Habits, Learning Approaches, and Academic Performance among Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Minahil Iman Janjua, Malaika, Malaika Arooj Niazi, Maryam Farooq, Mahnoor Fatima — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Learning involves applying different learning methods and strategies to acquire values, knowledge, and abilities. Throughout their preclinical and clinical years, medical students' study habits change, and they employ various teaching strategies, including lectures, lab work, small-group discussions, case-based learning, and bedside teaching. Comprehending learning styles and study habits can help customize instructional strategies to enhance academic achievement.

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to explore different study habits among medical students, their prevalence, and the effect on academic performance.

Materials and Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 129 medical students on the different study habits and their effects on the academic performance of the 2nd year medical students of the Rawalpindi Medical University for a time frame of six months.

Results: Most students with satisfactory performance studied more than 6 hours daily and revised weekly; none who studied <1 hour or revised inconsistently showed good performance. 88.4% preferred solo study, while strategic and surface approaches were equally common among both poor and satisfactory performers.

Conclusion: Effective study habits and learning strategies play a critical role in enhancing academic outcomes. Thus, understanding students' learning preferences and adapting teaching methods accordingly can be fruitful. This study offers valuable insights for policymakers and educators to develop targeted strategies that promote academic excellence.

Keywords: Medical Students, Learning, Academic Performance, Study Habits, Medical Education, Cross-Sectional Studies

Perspectives of Undergraduate Medical Students of Rawalpindi Medical University regarding Effective Learning of basic medical knowledge: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Basic medical sciences are integral to the development of clinical reasoning and professional competence in medical students. While several teaching approaches are in use, their effectiveness remains variable and often underexplored. This study explores students' views at Rawalpindi Medical University to inform improvements in medical teaching practices.

Objective: To explore the perspectives of undergraduate medical students at Rawalpindi Medical University regarding effective learning strategies and identify the factors influencing learning outcomes.

Materials and Methods: This qualitative descriptive (Husserlian) phenomenological study at Rawalpindi Medical University involved 18 second-year MBBS students selected through purposive sampling. Participants were divided into three groups based on academic and regional backgrounds: Day Scholars (F.Sc.), Hostellites (F.Sc.), and O/A Level students. Data was collected via focus group discussions using a self-administered questionnaire. Discussions were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed in MAXQDA 24.

Results: Thematic analysis identified eight themes: collaborative learning, resources, educational environment, work–life balance, sociocultural context, academic support, conceptual understanding, and application. Group discussions enhanced retention, with a preference for conceptual over rote learning supported by videos, mentorship, and self-study. Institutional resources facilitated learning, whereas commuting and time constraints were key barriers.

Conclusion: The study underscores the multifaceted nature of effective learning in undergraduate medical education. Collaborative learning, institutional support, and mentorship play pivotal roles in fostering academic success. Addressing barriers like work-life balance and promoting tailored, student-centered teaching strategies can significantly enhance learning outcomes and professional competency.

Keywords: Undergraduate Medical Education, Qualitative Research

Breast Self-Examination Screening Behaviors and Beliefs Among the General Population of Rawalpindi: An Assessment Using Champion's Health Belief Model

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Breast cancer is a leading cause of female mortality globally, with Pakistani women facing a 1 in 9 lifetime risk. Early detection through Breast Self-Examination (BSE) can improve outcomes; however, awareness and practice remain low. This study assessed knowledge, beliefs, and practices regarding BSE among women in Rawalpindi using the Champion’s Health Belief Model (CHBM).

Objectives: To evaluate BSE awareness, beliefs, and practices in Rawalpindi’s general female population and identify associated factors.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to May 2025 among 313 women aged 18 and above, excluding medical professionals or those with diagnosed breast disease. Data were collected using a structured CHBM-based questionnaire and analyzed via SPSS version 26. Chi-square and binary logistic regression determined associations.

Results: While 69.6% of participants were aware of BSE, only 39.3% had practiced it. Education level (p = 0.003) and socioeconomic status (p = 0.009) were significantly associated with BSE practice; higher education and socioeconomic levels correlated with increased practice. Age and family history of breast cancer showed no significant association. Primary information sources were media (31.6%) and medical professionals (14.7%). Despite acknowledging BSE’s role in early detection, barriers such as forgetfulness, embarrassment, and lack of privacy were commonly cited.

Conclusion: Although BSE awareness is relatively high, actual practice is limited. Targeted educational interventions should address psychological and practical barriers to improve screening behaviors and empower women through increased self-efficacy.

Keywords: Breast Self-Examination, Early detection, Health Belief

The Relationship between Dietary Intake and Sleep Patterns among Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Nazia Nadeem, Mishal Ahmad, Moizza Munir, Mubashra Nadeem, Kiran Fatima — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Sleep is a crucial behavioral state for bodily processes, protein production, and avoiding sluggishness. A normal individual requires 7-9 hours of quality sleep each day. Studies suggest that dietary adjustments can improve sleep quality.

Objectives: Our study aimed to highlight how dietary intake affected sleep patterns. The relationship between food's nutritional components and how they affect medical students' sleep quality was investigated.

Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study was carried out among 316 healthy volunteers. Volunteers underwent sleep evaluation through the PSQ1 scale and diet evaluation through a self-made questionnaire extracted from a food frequency questionnaire.

Results: A total of 316 participants (267 females, 49 males) completed the questionnaire. 53.9% of them were between the ages of 20 and 25, and 82.4% of them belonged to urban areas. We assessed the relationship between proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids in the diet and drew correlations between them. For proteins, the correlation showed a value of 0.04, which indicates a very weak positive relationship. For Lipids, the value was 0.15, and for carbohydrates, it was 0.13, which showed a weak positive correlation. So, people having high amounts of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats in their diet tend to have slightly longer sleep hours. Moreover, 35.1% of people reported that the intake of spicy foods decreased their sleep quality.

Conclusion: There is a strong relationship between the quality of sleep and the consumption of specific dietary items. Research on the nutritional underpinnings of these correlations in clinical trials may result in a renewed emphasis on functional foods as a means of preventing sleep disorders and other sleep-related illnesses.

Keywords: Food, Eating, Sleep, Students, Medical

Association between Burnout and Emotional Intelligence among Medical Students Enrolled in An Integrated Modular Curriculum

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Medical student burnout is critical. Emotional intelligence inversely correlates with protecting against it. This study explores their link in integrated modular curricula.

Objectives: To compare burnout prevalence and emotional intelligence correlation among medical students at Rawalpindi Medical University and Shifa College of Medicine in an integrated modular curriculum.

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Rawalpindi Medical University and Shifa College of Medicine, involving 350 medical students enrolled in an integrated modular curriculum. Participants completed self-administered questionnaires assessing burnout (using BCSQ12SS) and emotional intelligence (using BEIS-10). Data analysis included descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, and correlation analyses to determine the relationship between burnout, emotional intelligence, and demographic variables. Non-parametric tests were used due to deviations from normality. Multiple linear regression was employed to assess the variance in emotional intelligence scores explained by burnout and other factors.

Results: The study revealed moderate levels of emotional intelligence (mean BEIS-10 score of 36.35) and varying levels of burnout subtypes, with the Overload dimension showing a mean score of 16.85. A significant positive correlation was found between burnout (BCSQ) and emotional intelligence (BEIS-10). Sleep deprivation and low physical activity were associated with higher burnout scores. Specifically, a weak positive correlation existed between BEIS-10 scores and Frenetic type of burnout (r= 0.227, p < 0.001) & Lack of Development type of burnout (r=0.179, p<0.001).

Conclusion: The study found a notable prevalence of the "frenetic" Overload subtype of burnout, even with moderate-to-high emotional intelligence, which showed no significant differences across institutions or demographic groups. Targeted interventions like skills training and support systems are needed for student well-being.

Keywords: Burnout, Medical Students, Emotional Intelligence, Mental Health

A Comparative Analysis of Anxiety, Depression, and Coping Mechanisms Among Preoperative Male and Female Patients at Holy Family Hospital

Fizzah Sohail, Zainab Fiaz, Munazza Saghir, Javeria Gul, Sara Malik — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The preoperative period is a psychologically stressful time, often accompanied by anxiety, depression, and varying coping responses. Gender differences in how these psychological challenges are managed remain underexplored in local contexts. This study assessed the gender differences in preoperative stress, anxiety, depression, fear, and coping mechanisms among general surgery patients in Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi.

Objectives: The objective of our study was to discover the differences in preoperative anxiety, depression, and handling mechanisms between male and female patients scheduled for surgery at Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 81 adult preoperative patients (40 males, 41 females) undergoing elective surgery. Data were collected using the PHQ-9, anxiety and fear assessment items, and selected items from the Brief COPE inventory. Independent samples t-tests, chi-square tests, and Pearson correlations were performed using SPSS version 27.

Results: Females reported significantly higher mean scores for anxiety (3.06 vs 1.88), fear (2.76 vs 1.80), depression (2.21 vs 1.42), and overall use of coping strategies (2.73 vs 2.27) than males (all p < 0.001). Emotion-focused and maladaptive coping styles were significantly more common among females, while problem-focused coping showed no significant gender difference. Strong correlations were observed among anxiety, fear, and depression scores.

Conclusion: Compared to male patients, females demonstrated greater psychological distress and a higher tendency to utilize emotion-focused and maladaptive coping mechanisms. These results highlight the necessity for gender-sensitive psychological support in preoperative care.

Keywords: Preoperative, anxiety, depression, coping behavior, gender differences

Assessment of Knowledge and Vaccination Status Related to Women-Centric Vaccinations Among Female Medical Students in Rawalpindi Medical University, Pakistan: Women-Centric Vaccinations Among Female Medical Students

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Vaccination is an effective way of preventing infectious diseases. Women require vaccination against tetanus, rubella, hepatitis B, and HPV essential for their health as well as future generations. Despite its significance, gaps in knowledge and practice persist even among medical students.

Objectives: This study aims to assess the level of Knowledge & Practice and vaccination status among female medical students of Rawalpindi Medical University.

Materials & Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among the female medical students of Rawalpindi Medical University. A validated self-structured questionnaire on demographics, knowledge, and practice for TT, Rubella, Hepatitis B, and HPV was used. Data was collected using Google Forms. Non-probability convenience sampling was used, and data were analyzed in IBM SPSS v27 using descriptive statistics.

Results: A total of 354 female medical students of 21.1± 1.365 years participated in the study. A majority of 95.5% (n=338/354) received vaccination. 73.2% (n=259/354) of females were vaccinated against hepatitis B, 15.5% against HPV, 67.1% against tetanus, and 64.7% (n=229/354) against rubella. 41% (n=145/354) of the population affirmed receiving a booster dose of vaccine, including Hepatitis B after awareness camp, Tetanus toxoid after injury and in pregnancy, HPV vaccination after awareness camp or a case diagnosed in the family. Only 25% (n=88/354) of the medical students knew the duration of the hepatitis B vaccination course.

Conclusion: Considerable gaps exist between knowledge and vaccination practices, regardless of high awareness levels, particularly for HPV. Institutional vaccination initiatives and comprehensive education programs are required to bridge the knowledge-practice gap among future healthcare professionals.

Keywords: Vaccination, Female, Hepatitis B, Tetanus Toxoid, Rubella

Knowledge, Frequency, and Perceptions of E-cigarettes among Medical Students at Rawalpindi Medical University: A Cross-Sectional Study

Ubaid Ullah, Fatima Nasir, Narjis Zaidi — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: E-cigarettes are classified as tobacco products by the FDA and CDC due to their nicotine content. Their use is increasing globally, especially among youth. Medical students are expected to be well-informed due to their direct patient interactions. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine the awareness, frequency, and perceptions of medical students of Rawalpindi Medical University regarding the use of e-cigarettes.

Objectives: The study aims to evaluate the trends, frequency, and perception of e-cigarettes among students at Rawalpindi Medical University.

Materials and Methods: A sample size of 365 was calculated using the OpenEPI calculator, involving currently enrolled students from the first to the fifth year at Rawalpindi Medical University. Variables included were about participants’ cigarette use, frequency, perception, and knowledge. Informed consent was acquired from all participants involved in the study. The chi-square test and the Independent-Samples t-test were used to evaluate the differences between these groups. The analysis was done using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (IBM® SPSS® 27).

Results: Of the 365 students who took part in the survey, 261(71.5%) were female, and 104(28.5%) were male. The participants had an average age of 21.1 ± 2.2 years. Of the total responders, 52(14.2%) smoked traditional cigarettes. Male respondents were much more likely to smoke traditional cigarettes (69.2% vs. 30.8%, p<0.001). Overall, it was found that 249 students, or 68.2%, were aware of e-cigarettes. Most e-cigarette users think that e-cigarettes are safer than non-users (82.8% vs 67%).

Conclusion: A significant portion of respondents demonstrated better awareness, yet e-cigarette usage did not appear to be extensively prevalent within the study sample. Individuals typically viewed e-cigarettes as comparatively safer. Further studies from developing countries are necessary to assess their safety and efficacy as a smoking cessation aid.

Keywords: E-Cigarettes, Perception, Smoking, E-Cig use

Trends in Antibiotic Resistance among Gram-Negative Rods in a Tertiary Care Hospital, Rawalpindi

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: A global health concern, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) results from the overuse and misuse of antibiotics over the past 60 years, leading to more resistant microorganisms and limited treatment options, imposing significant societal costs.

Objective: To evaluate the patterns of antibiotic resistance in common Gram-negative rods isolated from the clinical samples during the study period from January 2021 to December 2023, according to CLSI guidelines 2023.

Materials and Methods: The data was collected from retrospective record review and prospective data from October 2023 to December 2023 of commonly isolated Gram-negative rods with confirmed 4486 cases from various clinical samples.

Results: According to descriptive statistics in 2021, 2022, and 2023, the percentage of E. coli is 35.01% to 30.03% to 34.96%. Klebsiella spp. was 16.54%, 40.96%, 42.51% respectively. Pseudomonas spp. dropped from 29.13% to 21.47% and rose to 49.40% in 2023. Proteus spp. 4.10%, 41.9%, and 53.0%. Resistance to E. coli and Klebsiella spp. decreased in response to frontline antibiotics 60%, 57%, 28% for E. coli and 30.60%, 27.70%, 17% for Klebsiella spp., respectively, suggesting potential efficacy. The Penicillin like Amoxicillin demonstrated a marked rise in resistance levels, 87.20% in 2023. The resistance to aminoglycosides in Pseudomonas spp. decreased significantly in 2023, 37.50% and 14.50%, respectively; yet resistance to Ciprofloxacin increased to 50.60%.

Conclusion: The dynamic evolution of resistance among bacterial species to various drugs advocates for selective antibiotic use and continuous surveillance to control the spread of resistant diseases.

Keywords: Gram-Negative Bacteria; Drug Resistance; Microbial Sensitivity Tests; Escherichia coli; Klebsiella; Proteus

Association Between Exercise Habits and Sleep Quality Among Undergraduate MBBS Students at Rawalpindi Medical University

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Many medical students experience poor sleep quality, often due to their demanding academic schedules and unhealthy lifestyle habits. Although exercise is thought to help improve sleep quality, findings regarding its specific effects on medical students have been inconsistent

Objectives: This cross-sectional study aims to assess the association between exercise habits and sleep quality among undergraduate medical students at Rawalpindi Medical University.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 363 undergraduate medical students enrolled at Rawalpindi Medical University. An online questionnaire was distributed to students via a Google Form. Sleep quality was assessed using a 7-question-based composite scoring system, while exercise variables- including frequency, duration, intensity, consistency, type, and time of day- were converted into numerical values. SPSS version 26 was used for data analysis. Pearson’s and Spearman’s correlation and multiple linear regression analysis were performed to assess the associations between exercise variables and sleep quality.

Results: No significant correlation was found between sleep quality and exercise frequency, duration, intensity, consistency, or time of day (p>0.05). Multiple linear regression showed that exercise variables could not significantly predict sleep quality, with an adjusted R² of -0.002

Conclusion: This study finds no significant association between sleep quality and exercise habits among undergraduate medical students at Rawalpindi Medical University. These results suggest that, within this population, sleep quality may be influenced more by factors other than exercise habits.

Keywords: Exercise, physical activity, sleep, sleep quality, students, medical, sleep disorders, stress, psychological, regression analysis

Patient Satisfaction in the Outpatient Departments of Public Sector Tertiary Care Hospitals in Rawalpindi: A Cross-Sectional Study

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Patient satisfaction is a key measure of healthcare quality, particularly in outpatient departments (OPDs), which serve as the first point of contact for most patients. Identifying factors influencing satisfaction can help improve public hospital services in Pakistan.

Objectives: To assess patient satisfaction levels in the OPDs of two major public tertiary care hospitals in Rawalpindi—Holy Family Hospital and Benazir Bhutto Hospital—and to identify demographic and service-related factors affecting satisfaction.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to June 2025 involving 322 patients aged ≥18 years. Data were collected using the validated Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire (PSQ-18), covering seven domains: general satisfaction, technical quality, interpersonal manner, communication, financial aspects, time spent with doctors, and accessibility. Associations were analyzed using Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests, with p < 0.05 considered significant.

Results: Overall, 54% of participants expressed high general satisfaction, and 73% were satisfied with the doctors’ interpersonal manner. Lower satisfaction was reported in technical quality (41%) and time spent with the doctor (44%). Significant associations were observed between age and accessibility (p = 0.002), gender (p = 0.009), and marital status with technical quality (p = 0.009). Females and rural patients reported higher satisfaction. Patients at Benazir Bhutto Hospital experienced longer waiting times (p = 0.039).

Conclusion: Patient satisfaction in Rawalpindi’s tertiary hospitals is multidimensional, with strong interpersonal communication but deficiencies in technical quality and accessibility. Addressing these gaps and regularly monitoring satisfaction can enhance patient-centered care in public healthcare settings.

Keywords: Patient satisfaction, outpatient department, public sector hospitals, PSQ-18

Oral Hygiene trends among Undergraduate Students of a Medical University: A Cross-sectional study

Andleeb Zahra, Amna Idrees, Aimen Jamil, Amna Zafar, Sidra Hamid — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Oral hygiene has an impact on a person’s health as well as on social life. Toothpastes, Miswak, toothpicks, and dental floss are the different methods of cleaning the mouth.

Objectives: The objectives were to determine the practices of oral hygiene among undergraduate students of a medical university. Also, it aimed to determine the effect of eating habits on oral health, along with the effect of oral health on a person’s daily life activities.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 301 participants using the WHO Standardized Oral Hygiene Questionnaire for Adults. Participants filled out online forms after giving consent. Collected data was processed using descriptive analysis based on WHO guidelines, and the prevalence of practicing oral hygiene measures and their relevance to eating habits was assessed. The analysis was done using SPSS v27.

Results: Results showed that 177 of 301 students (58.8%) cleaned their teeth once daily and 107 (35.5%) twice or more per day. Toothpaste is a common method of cleaning teeth, as 297/301 students (98.7%) use it, with the use of fluoride toothpaste by 207 (69.7%) participants. Dental visits frequency was: 43 (14.3%) visited in 2-5 years, 58 (19.3%) visited in >5 years, 31 (10.3%) visited in 6-12 months, 44 (14.6) visited in <6 months, 30 (10%) visited in 1-2 years, and 95 (31.6%) never received dental care. Eating jam or honey was related to tooth pain (p-value = 0.029).

Conclusion: The study showed that students had overall good oral hygiene practices and dental status. But regular dental checkups must be made compulsory, and students should be encouraged to maintain their oral hygiene.

Keywords: Hygiene, Oral, Medical Students

Awareness and Use of Emergency Contraception among Women of Reproductive Age Attending Tertiary Hospitals in Rawalpindi: A Cross-sectional Study

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Emergency contraception (EC) - the ‘best kept secret’ of reproductive health - is an oft-neglected subject. Although a variety of forms and initiatives promoting ECs are available, ECs are highly underutilized.

Objectives: Our study assesses the awareness of Emergency contraceptives and their use among women presenting to the OPD of the gynecology department in public tertiary hospitals of Rawalpindi, Pakistan.

Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study, using a validated questionnaire, was conducted in June 2025 on 107 women selected by convenience sampling. We used SPSS v27 for data analysis. Awareness and use of EC were measured; the Chi-square test of independence was used to assess the association of different demographic variables with awareness of ECs, and binary logistic regression analysis was applied for significant demographic variables using awareness and no awareness as outcome variables.

Results: Out of the 107 participants, 33.6% of the participants had heard about EC, while only 0.9% had ever used it. Most of the participants (72%) knew that EC use is not the same as abortion. Furthermore, 34.6% of women affirmed that they would use ECs if they had more information regarding them. Participants with below a college education were 66% less likely to have heard about ECs than those with a college education. A p-value of <0.05 and 95% CI was adopted.

Conclusion: This study concludes that awareness and use of ECs are lacking among the target population because of various factors, including misconceptions.

Keywords: Awareness, Emergency contraception, Tertiary hospital

Understanding the Patterns of Hospitalization in Dermatology: A retrospective record review from Pakistan

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Inpatient care in dermatology is often overlooked in low-resource settings despite the significant burden of severe skin diseases requiring hospitalization.

Objectives: This study aims to describe the patterns and demographic and length of stay associations in both years of dermatology admissions in a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan.

Materials and Methods: A retrospective record review was conducted at the Dermatology Department of Benazir Bhutto Hospital, affiliated with the Rawalpindi Medical University, reviewing all dermatology admissions from 1st January 2024 till 30th December 2024. Data was collected on demographic details, diagnoses, duration of hospital stay, and outcomes.

Results: Out of 371 patients, the most common causes of admission were autoimmune blistering diseases 15.9 %), extensive plaque psoriasis 15.36%, infections (14.2%), and erythroderma (10.5 %). The mean hospital stay was 7 days. Most patients were discharged successfully, while 4 patients required referral to other departments.

Conclusion: Autoimmune blistering dermatoses and extensive psoriasis were the leading causes of hospitalization in this setting. There were four patients requiring shifting to the medical ICU who later expired. Early recognition and prompt treatment are essential to reduce complications and hospital stay.

Keywords: Inpatients, Dermatology, Skin diseases, Cross-Sectional Study