Students' Supplement of Journal of Rawalpindi Medical College

Predictors of infodemic and misinformation against Covid–19 among general public of Rawalpindi

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Objective:

This study aimed to identify predictors of infodemic and misinformation related to COVID-19 among Rawalpindi's general public by analyzing their behavioral attributes and assessing their reliance on different types of evidence regarding the pandemic.

Materials and Methods:

This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Rawalpindi, Punjab, Pakistan from April to June 2024. The study assessed perceived information gathering capacity and risk perception related to COVID-19 among individuals aged 18 and above. A sample size of 377 was calculated. Convenience non-random sampling was used. The questionnaire covered demographics, information gathering capacity, and risk perception. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board of Rawalpindi Medical University, and data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26 applying descriptive statistics and Spearman’s rank correlation analysis to explore relationships between variables.

Results:

The study surveyed 394 individuals, with 55.3% males and 44.7% females. Most participants were in the 18-24 age group with varying educational backgrounds. Findings showed confidence in gathering information about COVID-19, distinguishing facts from rumors, and awareness of information sources. Perceptions of COVID-19 severity and susceptibility varied, with mixed emotions towards the pandemic and trust levels in information sources. Positive correlations were found between information gathering capacity, judgment frequency, and preventive behaviors against COVID-19.

Conclusion:

Relying on statistical, experimental evidence, and preventive measures enhances information gathering capacity. However, there is no direct link between reliance on scientific evidence and the ability to differentiate rumors from facts. The study also highlights public dissatisfaction with the Pakistani government's pandemic response and distrust in official information sources.

Reported Self-care Practices in Pregnancy and Their Relationship With Birth Outcomes in Women Presented to Allied Hospitals of Rawalpindi Medical University

Sun, 14 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction

Self-care is crucial for promoting health, preventing disease, and maintaining health during pregnancy. Understanding specific healthcare behaviors adopted by women is necessary to improve maternal healthcare delivery and birth outcomes.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess self-care practices during pregnancy and analyse the relationship between mother self-care and birth outcomes.

Materials and Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in postnatal wards of gynaecology departments of Allied hospitals of Rawalpindi Medical University from March 2024 to June 2024. Our study population included post-partum primigravida and multigravida women, excluding those having a previous history of comorbidities. For sample size calculation, we used Epi info sample size calculator. Data was collected using a validated self-structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis of data was done using SPSS version 27.

Results

The study found that 48% of participants had moderately healthy lifestyles, followed by 31.4% with healthy lifestyles, and 20.57% with least healthy lifestyles. Similarly, 57.14% had moderately healthy behaviours, 29.14% had healthy behaviours, and 13.71% had unhealthy behaviours. The relationship between healthy lifestyles and number of pregnancies was significant. PCOS prevalence was higher in participants with moderately healthy or healthy lifestyles. Stillbirths were more prevalent in participants with unhealthy lifestyles. The relationship between pregnancy-induced hypertension, pregnancy-induced diabetes, and healthy behaviours was significant.

Conclusion

The study suggests that education regarding childbirth is needed, especially for first-time mothers. Healthy lifestyles lead to better birth outcomes.

Association between Antenatal Care Utilization and Maternal Anemia in Pregnant Women: A Cross-sectional study in RMU & Allied Hospitals

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Antenatal care (ANC) is important for preventing maternal complications and improving health outcomes. In Pakistan, although many women contact ANC, there are still significant issues with timing, quality, and fairness in access.
Objectives: This study looks at the relationship between ANC use and maternal complication of anemia, at RMU & Allied Hospitals.
Materials and Methods: We carried out a retrospective cross-sectional study using hospital records of 385 women who were admitted for delivery between January 2024 and March 2025. We gathered data on sociodemographic, ANC details, maternal complications, and delivery outcomes. We used R software for statistical analyses, applying chi-square, Fisher’s exact, and Wilcoxon rank sum tests to find significant associations.
Results: Anemia was present in 15.3% of the participants. It was notably more common among women from rural areas (22.1%), those with low education (27.9% among those with only primary education), and those from low-income backgrounds (17.1%) (all p < 0.05). Even though 98.06% of women had at least one ANC visit, those who started care later (after three weeks) and had more visits (a median of 6 for anemic women compared to 4 for non-anemic women, p = 0.010) were paradoxically linked to anemia, suggesting that they sought care after complications developed. Anemic women were more likely to arrive in poor condition, be in advanced labor, and have complications such as bleeding after 28 weeks and threatened miscarriage.
Conclusion: Inadequate and delayed ANC was strongly tied to negative maternal outcomes, particularly anemia. Factors like living in rural areas, low education, and poverty increased the risks. These findings stress the need for early, fair, and effective antenatal care to enhance maternal health in Pakistan.
Keywords:
Antenatal care, anemia, Pregnancy complications, Healthcare Disparities, Pakistan, Rural health

Clot Formation Within Tracheostomy Tube in Surgical Unit 1 of HFH Hospital Rawalpindi; a Quality Improvement Project

Abdul Hafeez Soomroo, Shanza Nazih, Ahsan Hameed, Rai Asghar, Aayet Zulfiqar — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Clotting inside tracheostomy tubes is a major problem that can block the airway and trigger breathing problems, more especially among critical care patients. This clinical audit is a full report of the Tracheostomy Care Practice in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Holy Family Hospital (HFH) Rawalpindi, where we evaluated the current situation, identified risk factors for clot formation, and made recommendations for improvement. It was a combined retrospective and prospective review, and it was from January to February 2025, the period when 50 patients who underwent tracheostomy and remained in the ICU for more than 48 hours were involved. The data were primarily based on patient’s medical records, clinical documentation, and incident reports. The study found out that the incidence rate of clot formation was 20% because of the lack of enough humidification (50%), infrequent suctioning (30%), and airway trauma (20%) as the most significant risk factors. The support of recommended measures was still ineffective with 60% of the oxygen that was only humidified and suctioning being done at appropriate intervals was in 70% of cases. The outcomes contained in the research impress the significance of standard tracheostomy care protocols, better-equipped staff, and frequent audits so that the patients’ safety is improved and the obstructions of the airways risk is minimized. The implementation of these measures is the key to obtaining better results for the ICU patients undergoing tracheostomy surgery.

Factors Affecting Healthy Lifestyle among Medical Students in Rawalpindi Medical University, a Cross Sectional Study

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

University is a critical time where students are more prone to engage in risky health behaviors known to negatively affect well-being, such as physical inactivity, stress, and poor dietary habits. A health promoting lifestyle is an important determinant of health status and is recognized as a major factor for the maintenance and improvement of health. This study was designed to assess the health-promoting lifestyle of students in Health University in Rawalpindi, Pakistan.

Methodology:

A total of 375 students participated in this descriptive cross-sectional study. Data gathering was conducted at Rawalpindi Medical University. Participating students completed a self-reported questionnaire that included questions regarding their demographic characteristics and their health-promoting behaviors.

66℅females and 33%males were included in this study. 74% of the participants were of normal weight and 7.9% were overweight. The analysis showed that there was a significant association between gender wise and year of study wise comparison with regards to the factor of health responsibility. Students were found to have an inadequate level of adherence to recommendations regarding physical activity and healthy eating habits. The analysis also found that majority of the students do not attend educational programs on health care. The model shows that gender, type of college, year in school, and family structure were significant predictors of the health lifestyle of students in Pakistan.

Conclusion:

The results of the current study indicate that university students are leading unhealthy lives, where the majority of them have unhealthy eating habits and poor physical activity level. Universities are ideal settings for implementing health promotion programs. Therefore, planning and implementing programs to motivate students to be more responsible for their own health, to engage more in physical activity, and to practice healthy eating habits and other forms of wellness are of paramount importance.

Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitude and Vaccination Status among Pre Clinical Medical Students of Rawalpindi Medical University

Amna Idrees, Aimen Sarfaraz, Abeera Asad, Amna Zafar, Amna Asghar, Aqsa Mehfooz — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Abstract

Introduction

Hepatitis refers to viral liver inflammation leading to acute and chronic illness. In Pakistan its prevalence is 4.9% for hepatitis C and 2.5%. Reuse of contaminated needles, syringes, or sharp objects in healthcare settings causes the spread of this virus. Vaccination is an effective tool for its prevention but unfortunately a low vaccination rate is observed in developing countries. Healthcare workers, because of negligence and non-vaccination are severely exposed to it. In medical practice, medical students are more prone to hepatitis because of lack of awareness, vaccination and high prevalence of needle stick injuries. Thus, proper knowledge and outlook is important for safety. Working on medical students' apprehension is significant for hepatitis control in future as they can raise consciousness regarding disease in themselves and their patients.

Methodology

We conducted a cross-sectional study using an online questionnaire-based survey recording the demographic details, knowledge, attitude, practice and vaccination status of non clinical year medical students. Total data of 249 students was collected through convenience sampling. Statistical analysis was performed.

Results

Out of 266 participants, ranging from age 17 to 27, the majority were females 202 (75.9%). Among these, 66.5% strongly agreed that hepatitis was caused by a virus whereas, hepatitis causes liver inflammation was also supported by majority (43.2% strongly agree, 41% agree). Regarding attitude, only 38% considered healthcare workers to be at an increased risk for hepatitis B but 52.6% believed in the efficacy of Hepatitis B vaccination. Assessment of vaccination status showed 92 (34.6%) people not being vaccinated while 174 (65.4%) were vaccinated.

Conclusion

A mixed response was achieved from pre-clinical year students about their knowledge in regards to Hepatitis B. Majority students were found vaccinated, showing a positive attitude towards vaccination.

Association of Blood Clotting Time with Gender and Blood Group among Young Healthy Individuals

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction:

Blood clotting is a crucial homeostatic process that prevents excessive bleeding after injury. This study investigates the influence of physiological parameters like blood type and gender on Clotting Time. While previous studies suggest potential associations between pathologic conditions and Blood Clotting Time, the evidence remains inconclusive for such an association between physiologic conditions like blood group and gender, and Blood Clotting Time. Additionally, regional variations in Clotting Time are understudied. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between clotting time, blood type, and gender in a Pakistani population.

Objectives:

The objectives of our study were to investigate the association between blood group ( ABO and Rh) and Clotting Time in a healthy young adult population from Pakistan and to determine if there are significant differences in Clotting Time of males and females.

Material and Methods:

A Cross-sectional, observational study was conducted on 208 healthy subjects, 108 males and 100 females. Blood groups were self-reported by participants while Blood Clotting Time was measured by the Capillary Tube Method. The Association of Clotting Time with gender and blood group was checked.

Results:

Clotting Time was highest in the O blood group and lowest in AB and this relation was significant (p value=0.001). Among Rh blood groups, Rh negative had higher Clotting Time than Rh positive, but this relation was not significant (p value=0.564). Females had higher Clotting Time than males with high significance ( p value=0.00).

Conclusion:

Females and O blood group individuals are more susceptible to abnormal bleeding in cases of trauma or surgery, therefore necessary measures should be taken before undergoing invasive procedures. Studies with a larger number of participants need to be done to determine risk groups more accurately.

Knowledge about First Aid among Medical, Nursing and Allied Health Sciences Students of Rawalpindi Medical University, Pakistan.

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: First aid is an important life-saving skill that can make a profound impact in emergency situations. It involves giving rapid medical care at the site of the accident. Medical and nursing students often get training inside controlled hospital environments. However, the scope of first aid education entails effectively responding to many emergency situations outside the hospital. Objectives: The objective of this study is to assess the knowledge of undergraduate students in the fields of MBBS, Nursing, and Allied Health Sciences (AHS) with regards to first aid. Materials and Method: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted from April 2023 to August 2023 at Rawalpindi Medical University. A validated, self-structured 16 items questionnaire regarding first aid was used to assess the knowledge of the students. Data analysis was done using Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 26. Results: The study included a total of 309 individuals enrolled in the MBBS, AHS, and Nursing programs. The mean knowledge score among all students was 8.72 ± 1.878. Only 10 (3.23%) students had High knowledge, 216 (69.9%) students had Moderate knowledge, and 83 (26.8%) students had Low knowledge of first aid. Significant differences were observed in knowledge scores among degree programs, with MBBS students (M = 9.02, SD = 1.61) scoring significantly higher than AHS (M = 8.0, SD = 2.33) and Nursing students (M = 8.06, SD = 2.11). However, no significant difference was found between AHS and Nursing students. A positive correlation was identified between academic year and knowledge scores, indicating increasing proficiency with each academic year.

Conclusion: This study sheds light on the current state of first aid knowledge among undergraduate healthcare students and underscores the need for tailored educational strategies to equip them with the essential knowledge for effective emergency response.

Awareness of Breast Cancer in Patients at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Pakistan; a Cross-sectional Study

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Knowledge, Attitude and Practice about cervical cancer among women of reproductive age living in Rawalpindi, Pakistan: A Cross-sectional study

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer is a malignant epithelial tumor caused by Human papilloma virus. It is a gradually progressive disease. Since it is a prevalent health problem and can be prevented, it is necessary that women are aware of the disease and its prevention. This cross-sectional survey aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding cervical cancer among women of reproductive age group in Rawalpindi, Pakistan.

Objectives: To assess knowledge, practice, and attitude of women of Rawalpindi regarding cervical cancer and to determine the association between knowledge, attitude and practices regarding cervical cancer and demographic factors

Methods: A self-structured questionnaire was developed from a previous study (1). Random women of reproductive age (15-49) visiting Holy family Hospital, Rawalpindi were interviewed, and data was collected after informed consent in the time span of 3 months. Data was analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) version 26. To find the association between independent variables (demographic characteristics) and dependent variables (Knowledge score, attitude score, practice score) an independent t test was used. Also, Pearson correlation was used to find association between knowledge score , attitude score and practice score .

Results: Overall study showed that 152(66.6%) women had adequate level of knowledge, 119(52.1%) women showed adequate level of attitude towards cervical cancer and 204(89.4%) women showed adequate level of practice. Among these women majority of women were younger, unmarried, literate, and nulliparous. On using independent t test significant (p<0.05) association was found between marital status, parity, age, and knowledge score also, significant (p<0.05) association between parity and attitude score was found. And significant (p<0.05) association was found between age, marital status, parity, and practice score. Pearson correlation showed signification relation between knowledge score and attitude score , knowledge score and practice score .

Conclusion: There is a dire need to increase awareness among women regarding cervical cancer to decrease the incidence of cervical cancer and to decrease mortality.

Keywords: Cancer of Cervix , Cancer of the Uterine Cervix , Pap Smear , HPV

Effectiveness of Soft Arch Insoles in the Management of Pediatric Pes Planus: A Descriptive Observational Study

Muqadas Mazhar, Aimen Shahbaz, Syeda Warda Zaidi, Obaid Ur Rehman — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Abstract:
Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of foot insoles in improving foot alignment, enhancing arch formation,
reducing pain and discomfort, and improving functional capacity in the pediatric population with pes planus
(flatfoot).
Study Design

A Descriptive Observational Study
Place & Duration of Study: This study took place at Benazir Bhutto Hospital Rawalpindi and lasted six months,
from May 1st, 2023 to November 31st, 2023.
Material and Methods

This study, conducted at Benazir Bhutto Hospital (BBH) Rawalpindi, examined the effects
of shoe insoles on 50 children aged 6 to 12 years with flexible pes planus who selected using nonprobability
consecutive sampling after providing informed consent. Children with flexible pes planus and no additional deformities were included, while those with rigid pes planus or noncompliance with insole use were excluded. A standardized questionnaire was used to gather data at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months, which included demographic information, the Foot Function Index (FFI), and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS version 25.0, with descriptive statistics and paired sample t-tests used to analyze changes in VAS and PFFI scores
over time and the effectiveness of the intervention.
Results

The study comprised 50 pediatric patients with flexible pes planus, ranging in age from 8.94 ± 1.69 years.
There were 44% boys and 56% girls, with 68% coming from urban and 32% from rural areas. In 60% of
participants, the disease affected the right side, whereas 40% affected the left. Foot pain VAS scores dropped
significantly, from 5.2 ± 1.1 at baseline to 3.1 ± 0.9 at 3 months and 2.3 ± 0.8 at 6 months (p < 0.01). The Pediatric
Foot Function Index (PFFI) scores improved considerably from 72.5 ± 10.3 at baseline to 50.3 ± 8.7 at 6 months (p < 0.01). There were no major side effects observed, while 15% of individuals experienced moderate discomfort that resolved within a few weeks. P-values < 0.05 were considered significant.
Conclusion

The study found that using shoe insoles in children with flexible pes planus significantly reduced foot
discomfort and improved foot function over a 6month period. Foot pain VAS scores dropped significantly, from 5.2
± 1.1 at baseline to 3.1 ± 0.9 at 3 months and 2.3 ± 0.8 at 6 months (p < 0.01). The Pediatric Foot Function Index
(PFFI) scores improved considerably from 72.5 ± 10.3 at baseline to 50.3 ± 8.7 at 6 months (p < 0.01). There were
no major side effects observed, while 15% of individuals experienced moderate discomfort that resolved within a few weeks. P-values < 0.05 were considered significant.
Conclusion: The study found that using shoe insoles in children with flexible pes planus significantly reduced foot
discomfort and improved foot function over 6 months.
Keywords

foot insoles, pediatric pes planus, flat foot, medial longitudinal arch

Complementary Feeding: Is it Healthy and Adequate? Attitudes, Knowledge and Practices of Families of Rawalpindi

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: This study examines the factors contributing to inappropriate complementary feeding practices for infants and young children, which can lead to impaired growth, delayed motor and cognitive development, stunting, malnutrition and other nutritional deficiencies.
Objectives: The objectives of this study are to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of complementary feeding habits in families of Rawalpindi, to determine demographic variables and child characteristics that influence complementary feeding, and to determine whether child feeding practices are adequate concerning a child's overall health or not.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from March to August 2023 in allied hospitals of Rawalpindi Medical University and a total of 308 mothers with index children between the ages of 4 months and 1 year participated. Convenience sampling was used to enroll eligible mothers. Data was collected through a verified self-administered questionnaire or interview-based approach as all mothers were not able to read and understand English. The data was analyzed through SPSS version 25.
Results: Among 308 study participants, majority of mothers (86.4%) were housewives and only 13.6% were working women. About two-thirds of the study population, i.e. 211 participants (68.5%) correctly stated the recommended time to initiate breastfeeding and nearly two-thirds of the mothers, 198(64.3%) knew the recommended duration for exclusive breastfeeding. Only half of the study population 170(55%) correctly answered the recommended time to initiate complementary feeding. The difference in knowledge between the housewives and working women was statistically significant (p<0.016) at the 0.05 significance level.
Conclusion: The current knowledge and practices of complementary feeding are insufficient. To develop a more positive attitude towards complementary feeding it is advisable to organize health education and awareness campaigns.
Keywords: Complementary feeding, Impaired Growth, Delay motor development, Malnutrition, Nutritional deficiencies.

Quality of life index in patient with scabies

Maryam Sadiq, Tooba Shabbir, Hafsa Gul, Maryam Zafar, Anosha Ali, Imrana Saeed — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Title; Quality of Life index in patient with scabies

Introduction; Scabies is an infestation of the skin by the human itch mite (Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis). The microscopic scabies mite burrows into the upper layer of the skin where it lives and lays its eggs. The most common symptoms of scabies are intense itching and a pimple-like skin rash. It places a psychological and emotional toll on patients similar to any other disease. Quality of life index helps to make an estimate about the physical, psychological, emotional and social impact of a disease for the patient.

Objectives;

• To assess QoL impairment in scabies patients and its variability with gender.

Methodology; With cross-sectional study design, a total of 297 diagnosed patients of scabies presenting in Benazir Bhutto Hospital, Rawalpindi were assessed using DLQI questionnaire defined by World Health Organization with a maximum score of 30 and cut-off values of 1,5,10 and 20. Patients of scabies with other skin diseases, underlying neuropsychiatric illnesses, functional disability and pregnancy were excluded. Data was stored and analyzed using SPSS version 27. Descriptive analysis was used for describing the study variables. Independent t-test was used for comparison between males and females, p value of <0.05 was taken as significant.

Results; Out of total 297 participants, number of males were 156 and females were 141. Out of total, 1.7% had no effect,22.2% had small effect, 36% had moderate effect, 30% had very large effect and 9.4% had extremely large effect on their quality-of-life due scabies disease. The p-value was found to be significant i.e., p-value<0.01.

Conclusion; Scabies has a significant negative impact on the lives of affected individuals. Anxiety, depression and significant psychological consequences are binding in these patients. Assessment of quality of life enables the treating physician to devise the best possible management plan individually.

Key words;

Quality of life; Quality of life is defined by World Health Organization as an individual’s perception of their position in life in the context of the culture and value systems in which they live and in relation to their goals, expectations, standards and concerns.

Scabies; A contagious cutaneous inflammation caused by the bite of the mite SARCOPTES SCABIEI

Assessment of Awareness Regarding Hepatitis B and C among the Urban Community of Rawalpindi

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

OBJECTIVE: Hepatitis B and C can cause lethal liver infections leading to permanent liver tissue damage.Globally, two billion individuals have encountered the Hepatitis B virus and 100 million individuals have encountered the Hepatitis C virus.The objective of this study was to evaluate knowledge,attitudes and practices of urban community in Rawalpindi towards Hepatitis B and C.
METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in July 2023 among 277 participants. Data was collected through a questionnaire assessing knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to Hepatitis B and C. The responses to the questionnaire were recorded in SPSS version 25. Responses of participants were compared on the basis of both gender and educational level through Chi square test. Responses were also compared on the basis of age via Kruskal- Wallis H test. P-value<0.05 was considered statistically significant.
RESULTS: Among the participants, 135 (48.7%) were male, and 142 (51.3%) were female, with a mean age of 38.13 years ±12.76 years. The majority had not received Hepatitis B vaccination (61%), and only 27.1% had undergone screening. Participants from the secondary education level demonstrated higher knowledge levels in various aspects of Hepatitis B and C. There was no significant difference between genders, except for female participants being more informed about the potential lifelong persistence of the diseases.
CONCLUSION: This study provides valuable insights into the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding Hepatitis B and C within the urban community of Rawalpindi. The results indicate a need for enhanced vaccination coverage and screening accessibility. Tailored educational initiatives can significantly contribute to improved public health outcomes in this context.
KEYWORDS: Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices, Urban population.

Estimation of mean scores of blood pressure and knowledge of health risks associated with high blood pressure among medical students of RMU

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction:

Hypertension is a problem faced by many people in our society. This study examines the mean scores of blood pressure and knowledge of health risks associated with hypertension among 1st year medical students at Rawalpindi medical university.

Objectives:

The objectives of this study are to measure the mean scores of blood pressure, and assess the risk factors associated with high blood pressure.

Materials and Methods:

The descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted in April-June ,2024 at Rawalpindi Medical University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan. A total of 70 medical students responded to this survey. Data was analyzed using IBM SPSS statistics version 27. Inferential statistics was done and threshold for statistical significance was set at p value less than 0.05.

Results:

More than half of the population whose data is obtained are females. Approximately 3/4 of the people had their blood pressure checked by professionals. More than 50% had normal blood pressure and only less than 1% were on blood pressure medications.

Conclusion:

The study demonstrated that blood pressure scores were mostly normal among the students. Moreover, students had a significant knowledge regarding health risks associated with high blood pressure

Keywords:

Blood Pressure, Systolic Blood Pressure, Diastolic Blood Pressure, Sphygmomanometer.

Determination of Mean Bleeding Time and Knowledge of Conditions Associated with Variations in Mean Bleeding Time

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Bleeding time is a vital haemostatic parameter used to assess the platelet function and the overall blood coagulation. Bleeding time is defined as the average time taken by incision to stop bleeding.

This study aimed to evaluate mean bleeding time, conditions that might cause the fluctuation in the mean bleeding time and how early indication of such conditions might help elevate the medicine sector.

The population of the study were the universities students of first year MBBS of Rawalpindi Medical University involving the standard age group of 18 to 22 years. The Duke’s method was used to assess bleeding time. This method involves pricking participants’ earlobe or finger with a special needle or lancet, and the bleeding time is measured using a stopwatch.

To observe the several factors affecting the main bleeding time, a specifically designed questionnaire keeping in view the principles of ethics including confidentiality, autonomy and beneficence was developed which assess the participant’s lifestyle: including their physical activities, habits, medications, and addictions of drugs (if any). The family history, genetic disorders, and the health problems such as anaemia would be taken into the account. These factors would be analysed and their role in fluctuating the mean bleeding time would be linked.

The data collected contributed to understanding bleeding time variations and optimizing treatment strategies for early intervention, ultimately improving patient’s outcomes.

Assessment of Mental Health among Medical Students of RMU Rawalpindi

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

ABSTRACT

Introduction

Mental health is an essential part of our general health. Students, especially those studying in medical colleges, are more prone to disturbed mental health, which can further affect the performance of medical students when they enter professional practice.

Objectives

The objective of this study is to assess the mental health and psychosocial well-being of MBBS students studying at Rawalpindi Medical University and to analyse factors affecting it.

Methods and Materials

In this cross-sectional study, a total of 315 students were enrolled across five medical years of study using consecutive sampling. Data was collected in a 3-part questionnaire; Demographics data, General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) and a self-structured Factors Affecting Mental Health (FAMH) Questionnaire with 14 items was used. Likert Scoring was used for GHQ (cutoff=24).

Descriptive Statistics of mean, median, frequency, and percentage were applied to further describe the data. Chi-Square, T-test (Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal-Wallis H test) on FAMH, and Binary Logistic Regression analysis, were applied to the data to find the association of GHQ score with the demographics of the students and FAMH.

Results

A total of 315 students participated with 34% (107) male and 66% (208) female. Mean age was 21.1 years (SD=2.65). 72.1% (227) non-boarders and 27.6% (87) boarders were included.

A significant difference was observed in year of study, where 50.7% basic years students and 35.2% clinical years students showed GHQ scores less than 24 (p=0.006). Only 34.5% of boarders and 46.2% of non-boarders had GHQ scores below 24 (p=0.060).

Physical appearance (p<0.001), preference in choosing MBBS (p=0.002), fear of failure of exams (p=0.003), support from staff (p=0.001), social habits (p=0.030), sports (p=0.001), physical health, financial issues, and chronic illnesses (p<0.001 respectively), were the factors that affected mental health with a clear statistical significance. Family structure (p=0.064), demand of studies (p=0.078), some foreign exam (p=0.096), family support (p=0.556), substance abuse (p=0.465), had no statistical significance on mental health.

Conclusion

Clinical year students are at higher risk of mental health issues. Physical appearance, fear of failure of exams, financial stress, and social habits affect mental health adversely. Moreover, stress of medical education and lack of awareness also affects mental health.

Keywords

Mental health, GHQ, Factors affecting mental health, medical students, university.

Digital Health: Opportunity or Overload for Young Doctors

Aayet Zulfiqar — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Metastatic Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma Mimicking Brachial Cleft Cyst: A Case Report

Rabia Mahmood, Umama Khalid, Mishal Ahmad — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

INTRODUCTION:

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common and well-differentiated type of thyroid cancer, with tumors ≤10 mm classified as papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) by the World Health Organization. This case highlights a BCC initially diagnosed as benign but later found to harbor metastatic PTC. It emphasizes the need for careful evaluation of atypical neck masses to avoid delayed diagnosis and treatment.

CASE PRESENTATION

This case involves a 35-year-old woman with a three-year history of right-sided neck swelling and breathing difficulty, initially presumed to have a branchial cleft cyst (BCC) based on clinical findings and FNAC. Surgical removal of the cystic mass confirmed a type 2 BCC. However, continued symptoms led to further imaging and thyroid evaluation, which revealed a small nodule. Histopathology confirmed a unifocal papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) in the right lobe. The case underscores the importance of considering hidden malignancy in seemingly benign lateral neck masses.

DISCUSSION

Although PTMC typically follows an indolent course, cystic lymph node metastases may signal aggressive behavior. Misdiagnosis as benign neck cysts can delay appropriate treatment. This case emphasizes the need for thorough evaluation of adult-onset lateral neck masses and supports early surgical intervention for accurate diagnosis and optimal management.

KEYWORDS :

Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma (C563277 ) , Metastasis ( D009362 ) , Branchial Cleft Cyst (D001935 ), Thyroidectomy (D013965)

Comparison of efficacy and adverse effects of Triptans and Gepants – Anti-migraine drugs

Pakeezah Tabasum, Wajiha Fatima, FNU Adnan — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Migraine, the 2nd largest cause of Years Lived in disabilities (YLD) in 195 countries of world with a prevalence rate of 1040 Million. It is unilateral neurological disorder of head. 75% of patient of migraine are female who are in their reproductive stage. Most probably, the accepted cause behind pathophysiology of migraine is dilation of cephalic and intracranial arteries. By decades, the commonest used drugs for acute treatment of migraine are Triptans, 5-HT 1B and 5-HT1D receptor antagonist. Triptans for the treatment of migraine, cause relief from pain and other symptoms of migraine such as, nausea, vomiting, photophobia and photophobia within 2 hours. However, newly approved Drugs: Zavegepant and Rimegepant cause greater adverse effect than Triptans. Hence, rarely used for the treatment of migraine due its greater complications.