Open Access Public Health and Health Administration Review

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Public Health and Healthcare Systems Management

2024-12-30T16:35:21+00:00

Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into public health and healthcare systems management represents a transformative opportunity to enhance efficiency, improve patient outcomes, and facilitate proactive approaches to health crises. By harnessing machine learning algorithms, predictive analytics, and natural language processing, healthcare professionals can analyze vast datasets to identify trends, optimize resource allocation, and streamline operations. AI applications can assist in disease surveillance, outbreak prediction, and personalized medicine, ultimately enabling a more responsive health infrastructure. However, ethical considerations, data privacy, and the necessity for human oversight must guide the implementation of these technologies. Overall, AI has the potential to transform the healthcare system by improving patient outcomes, reducing costs, and enhancing the overall quality of care. Therefore, there is a dire need for hybrid management to transform their institution into a modern state-of-the-art digital platform to maximize efficiency, economy, better-desired outcomes, and patient satisfaction.

Awareness of Obesity and its Risks among Qassim University Students: A Cross-sectional Study

2024-11-24T05:21:36+00:00

Obesity is a preventable and treatable health issue. This study aimed to know the level of awareness of obesity and its risks among Qassim University students to see how many students pay attention to the dangers of obesity. The duration of this cross-sectional study is 8-10 weeks, and the subjects were the students at Qassim University. An online questionnaire was deployed for 4 weeks using Google Forms. The link to the questionnaire was distributed through social media like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Twitter. At the end of 4 weeks, data collected were tabulated and analyzed. In this study, 508 students were selected out of which 203 were from 18 to 20 ages and 176 from 21 to 24 ages and 65 from 25 to 28 and 60 others responded. Of the study subjects selected, 325 females and 179 males, the levels of the students 144 level 1 and 70 level 10 and 58 level 2 and 49 level 8, and 42 level 3. The study showed that many respondents were aware of the complex nature of the risks of obesity and the possible methods of treatment. The use of modern methods such as effective university education and media programs in promoting community health and health education increases awareness of the risks of obesity and ways to avoid it could be beneficial to promote awareness about obesity and its prevention among youngsters.

Epidemiology and Risk Factors for Hepatitis “C” Virus Infection in Suspected Population Visiting DHQ Hospital Dera Ismail Khan

2024-06-02T09:45:02+00:00

The global public health significance of the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is substantial, with varying incidence rates observed in different geographic regions. This article provides a thorough epidemiological inquiry into the prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus infection and the factors that contribute to its occurrence among a population seeking medical treatment at DHQ Hospital in Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan. A cross-sectional study methodology was employed to collect data from a representative sample of persons who were visiting the hospital. To determine the seroprevalence of Hepatitis C Virus Infection and collect data on possible risk factors, such as demographic features, medical history, and behavioral patterns, a combination of serological testing and structured interviews was utilized. The findings demonstrate a worrisome spreading of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among the studied population, as seen by 23.4% of individuals testing positive for Hepatitis C viral antibodies. Moreover, our research has found several noteworthy risk factors, such as the use of injectable drugs, a history of smoking, the receipt of blood transfusions, and undergoing dental surgery, among others, that are correlated with an increased probability of contracting Hepatitis C virus infection. The findings offer significant contributions to the understanding of the epidemiological situation of the Hepatitis C Virus in Dera Ismail Khan. They emphasize the necessity of implementing focused prevention, screening, and intervention initiatives. Additionally, they underscore the need to target modifiable risk factors to mitigate the prevalence of HCV in this geographical area.

Epidemiological Status of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Different Colonies of District Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province

2024-09-26T17:21:25+00:00

This study aimed to assess the occurrence of leishmaniosis in certain colonies of District Dear Ismail Khan in the KP province of Pakistan. The diagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis may be quickly and readily confirmed by directly examining an impression smear taken from the lesion. The smear was stained using either Giemsa or Wright stain. The amastigote type of the parasite is readily identifiable both within and outside active lesions. The diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis was confirmed by detecting the presence of the leishmania parasite in a Giemsa smear, together with the consideration of demographic information and physical indicators exhibited by the patients. 205 cases were collected from OPD of the dermatology unit of DHQ Hospital Dear Ismail Khan. Data was collected from Dec 2023 to May 2024. For 06 months period, 205 positive cases were identified. In this study, all cases were of cutaneous leishmaniasis. The commonly affected age group was 16-30 years (44.3%) and more males were among this group. The presence of CL infection poses a significant health risk to the local people of District Dear Ismail Khan. The findings of this study might assist health authorities in promptly addressing this little ailment. In addition, the healthcare department should organize seminars and awareness efforts for the local population.

From Disruption to Resilience: Post-COVID-19 Qualitative Look at Karachi Businesses

2024-10-20T07:28:06+00:00

The lessons that management has learned from the Covid-19 calamity are still being revealed. The COVID-19 pandemic's impact on business resilience is still unfolding. This study explores how Karachi-based companies adapted using a qualitative approach. Semi-structured interviews with representatives from eleven diverse organizations revealed both internal and external transformations, encompassing strategic and operational changes. These adaptations demonstrate how businesses can build three-dimensional organizational resilience to navigate unforeseen disruptions. The objective of this study is to showcase the resilience mechanisms and tactics that Karachi-based companies have implemented in response to these changes. The researchers took an inductive stance. Semi-structured interviews were employed to gather data from a sample of eleven organizations spanning different industries, selected based on their potential for profit. The manual examination of the semi-formatted thematic content of the gathered data reveals that the COVID-19 epidemic has caused both internal and external change, with both an operational and a strategic component. Organizational change is a process of the organization adapting to changes in the external and internal environment as well as to a momentary state that is prevalent. This leads to the development of three-dimensional organizational resilience and/or the capture of positive externalities. It is a process by which the organization adjusts to changes in both the internal and external environments, as well as to the current situation. It is an evolution as opposed to a revolution. As far as limitations are concerned, it is based on interviews while future researchers are required to apply triangulation to get a better understanding and draw useful conclusions.

Detection of Aflatoxins M1 Contamination in Fresh Milk Sold at Different Outlets in Lahore, Pakistan

2024-12-04T06:51:13+00:00

The aflatoxin study was conducted to detect aflatoxin M1 in a variety of milk samples obtained from various milk shops in Lahore, Pakistan. A total of 190 samples were collected from different zones of Lahore. All samples were processed through ELISA to detect aflatoxins. A questionnaire containing 14 open-ended questions, and 27 closed-ended questions was designed. The data was analyzed using the chi-square method with mean ± standard deviation (SD) to identify the association between risk factors and positive results for aflatoxin M1 concentrations in the fresh milk samples. The level of significance was set at P ≤ 0.05. All milk samples were found to be positive for aflatoxins. About 90% of the samples were found to exceed the permissible limit of 50 ng/kg for aflatoxins. Using the questionnaire, an association between risk factors such as education, preventive measures in milk collection, cleaning areas, disinfection, commercial feed, toxin binders, and different seasons was evaluated. The results were non-significant for all factors except the use of toxin binders. It was observed that the use of toxin binders can reduce the aflatoxin levels in milk. It is concluded that all milk samples contain significant amounts of aflatoxins in Lahore, Pakistan. There is a strong need to establish strict rules and regulations to control the levels of aflatoxin B1 in animal feed. Milk producers, the dairy industry, and milk shop owners must be aware of the health risks and preventive measures associated with aflatoxins.

Prevalence of Entamoeba Histolytica in the Human Population in District Dera Ismail Khan Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

2024-09-26T17:15:51+00:00

Entamoeba histolytica is highly abundant worldwide because of unsanitary conditions and dietary practices. The study was conducted with the aim of the prevalence of entamoeba histolytica in the human population in the district of Dera Ismail Khan Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. We surveyed patients admitted to the District Headquarters Hospital in Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, to find out what percentage of patients had E. histolytica. The study recorded that the total incidence of E. histolytica was 22.8%. Compared to females (22.2%), males were more prone (23.8%). Data by age showed that those between the ages of 6 and 10 (27.8%) had the highest age group and those over 30 (5.5%) had the lowest. Month-by-month, February had the lowest prevalence (12.5%), and July had the highest (20.8%). Slightly more sensitive were males (23.8%) than females (22.2%). The age-wise statistic was lowest in those 30 and over years (5.5%) and greatest in the age range between 6 and 10 years (27.8%). Month by month, February (12.5%) had the lower prevalence, and July (20.8%) was the greatest. When the Entamoeba histolytica parasite finds an ideal habitat and host, it can re-emerge as a dangerous illness. There needs to be an E. histolytica vaccine right now to keep people from getting the very bad disease that Entamoeba histolytica causes. Furthermore, it is imperative to suggest measures aimed at enhancing the ecosystem and preserving the general ecology to actively avoid and manage the spread of E. histolytica. Additionally, monitoring and treating air pollutant concentration, temperature, rainfall, and other climate change variables in Dera Ismail Khan should also be prioritized. The study is conducted in only one city, yet future researchers need to undertake it at a large scale with a large sample size throughout the country.

Study of Different Ectoparasites from Labeo Rohita Collected from the Local Markets of Dera Ismail Khan, KPK, Pakistan

2024-09-26T17:10:57+00:00

The research in hand was aimed at studying different ectoparasites from Labeo Rohita collected from local markets of Dera Ismail Khan, KPK, Pakistan. To assess the prevalence of ectoparasites on rohu (Labeo Rohita) fish. 30 freshwater rohu specimens were gathered from various locations in Dera Ismail Khan, KPK, Pakistan, between the months of December 2023 and May 2024. The ectoparasite status of 30 fish species was assessed. 18 fish out of thirty were Lernaea infected. Lernaea had a total prevalence of 26.66 percent. In the group of fish weighing 1000–1200 grams, the prevalence of Lernaea was 37.5%, but in the group weighing 100–300 grams, it was 16.66%. In the fish length group of 66-85 cm, Lernaea was most common (33.33%), whereas in the 25-45 cm group, it was least common (14.28%). In addition, Lernaea varied with the seasons; in January, it was at its highest (33.33%), while in March and April, it was at its lowest (20%) and nonexistent (0%). The results showed that the prevalence of infection was higher in rohu (Labeo Rohita) fish that were both heavier and longer than in fish that were both lighter and shorter. This may be because parasites have a larger surface area to anchor and hide on larger fish. The study will significantly contribute to the theory and practice both as it has far reached results, though the study was conducted only in one city due to time and financial constraints, however, in the future, researchers could conduct it at large scale from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province to get generalizability of the results. Further, it is suggested that it may be replicated in varying environments of other provinces of the country too.

The Hidden Cost of Fitting In: Camouflaging in High-Pressure Healthcare

2024-10-10T07:00:43+00:00

The current study explores if, and how, camouflaging is related to interpersonal functioning among healthcare providers in a high-stakes clinical context. Camouflaging is a process that many people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) tend to do, where we mask or camouflage our autistic characteristics to fit into what is deemed socially acceptable by neurotypical. Even though camouflaging might make professional experiences slightly easier, such shining armor leaves a mental health wake of exhaustion, anxiety, and depression. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample population of 236 medical professionals (positivist research approach). Central to findings are a robust relationship between camouflaging and both interpersonal functioning and mental health outcomes over time. The results emphasize the importance of creating a culture in health organizations conducive to professionals with neurodiversity, normalizing esoteric illness experiences, and allowing space for the multiplicity of meaning inherent to being human. Implementing neurodiversity initiatives can boost employee health, interrelations, and patient care in healthcare organizations. The study is beneficial for healthcare academicians and practitioners to understand the severity of the issue and to devise ways and means to eradicate this menace. However, the results of this study could not be comprehensive in the sense that it was conducted with a very limited sample, while future studies need to use a large sample size to generalize the results. It is hereby suggested that in future studies could be conducted in different regions throughout the country.

Obstetric Factors Contributing to the Rising Trend of Cesarean Deliveries at Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zaid Hospital, Rawlakot

2024-12-05T05:29:05+00:00

The study aimed to assess the rate of cesarean section and to analyse the risk factors contributing to C-sections to introduce measures to check unwanted, non-medical reasons to go for a C-section. The study was retrospectively conducted at Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zaid Hospital Rawlakot Azad Kashmir on 5226 normal deliveries and 1604 C-sections. The rate was found to be 30.6%, more than the recommended rate by WHO (10-15 %). The major contributing factor was the previous scar (41.6%). The most prevalent indications were foetal distress (14%), older age more than 35 years (6 %), obstructed labour (1.9 %), failed IOL (1.6 %), failure of progress of labour (1.8 %), multiple pregnancies (1.74 %), PIH (0.99 %), meconium aspiration (1.62 %), placental problems (1.8 %), only one patient (0.06 %) requested for elective caesarean and other risk factors were also seen (18 %) in aggregate. The study concluded that at SKBZ hospital C-sections were overused. The study was conducted with a limited sample size only in one high-standard hospital in Rawalakot Azad Jammu and Kashmir, where the demographic characteristics of the patients were almost similar. Yet, it will be better to repeat the same kind of study in other hospitals of the AJK with larger sample sizes and with varying population characteristics and facilities, including populations from both the urban as well as from rural areas to get a clear understanding based on these differences to and generalize the results. The findings of this study will contribute to theory and practice and will be helpful to the government functionaries in healthcare planning.

Adoption of Electronic Health Records in Saudi Arabia: A Step Towards Digitalization

2024-12-22T10:29:25+00:00

For quality decision-making, the provision of accurate information to physicians and consultants is crucial, and this can only be possible by adopting the e-health applications and digitalization of health data. For health information data management, the adoption and implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) is essential. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the factors that are instrumental for the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) systems in Saudi Arabia. The population of this study was project directors, general managers, directors, analysts, and the Ministry of Health (MOH) in Saudi Arabia. A survey approach research design was used. Non-probability convenience sampling was used. Convenient sampling allows the researchers to have whoever is willing and available participate in the study survey. Data was collected from project directors, directors, analysts, and supervisors. SPSS was used for statistical data analysis. Frequencies, percentages, and mean standard deviation were reported, and correlations were run to test the hypothesis. It was concluded that except for demographic variables, which were not correlated with resources, end-users, technology, knowledge, values and goals, process, management structure, and administrative support, all other constructs correlated significantly. This study is a valuable extension of knowledge regarding the adoption of EHRs in Saudi Arabia’s healthcare organizations.