Journal of Women Medical and Dental College

The Current Cesarean Section Rate and Factors Associated with it among Women Attending The Tertiary Care Hospital in Hazara Division

2025-01-21T08:04:50+00:00

The recent global upsurge in the trend of cesarean section rates presents a major health problem, especially for underdeveloped countries like Pakistan. The increasing cesarean section rate is a dilemma for the present world. This study, conducted at Ayub Teaching Hospital Abbottabad from June to November 2024, aims to analyze the C-section rate, assess contributing factors, and explore potential associations between these factors and their indications. This research seeks to provide valuable data and insights to the existing body of research on cesarean section rates and factors influencing delivery decisions. By sharing the findings, the study aims to foster a better understanding of C/S rates and promote improved practices in obstetric care in ATH and beyond.This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Gynaecology at Ayub Teaching Hospital Abbottabad over a period of six months, from 1st June to 30th November 2024. It was based on a sample of 249 patients selected through a purposive non-probability sampling technique. Data were collected using a self-devised structured questionnaire. For data analysis, frequencies and percentages were calculated for categorical variables.The study reveals a 40.3% cesarean section rate, which is significantly higher than WHO recommendations, raising concerns about potential overuse and associated health risks. The most important and notable indication for cesarean section is “Previous CS” (26.9%), which shows a significant association with obstetrical hysterectomy, emphasizing the importance of previous C-section history. Malpresentation of the baby accounts for 6.0%, with associated risks in decision-making during childbirth. Placenta previa is another significant indication (2.4%), leading to a notable increase in emergency C-sections. “Fetal distress” (10.0%) and “Preeclampsia + PIH” (8.8%) also contribute to the C-section rate, with significant associations found between patient age and specific indications for C-section.“Elective C-section” is more common in cases of “Previous C-section” and “Malpresentation of the baby,” while “Emergency C-section” is more often associated with indications such as “Fetal distress,” “Preeclampsia + PIH,” “Obstructed labor,” and “Placenta previa and abruption.” Parity shows a strong association with cesarean indications, with multiparas having a higher frequency due to previous C-sections, while primiparas exhibit a higher occurrence related to breech presentation.The four main factors responsible for significant associations with cesarean indications were age (p = 0.019), family income (p = 0.043), type of cesarean section, and parity (p = 0.006). Positive trends are also observed in BMI, comorbidities, and lifestyle. “Previous CS” remains the major indication at 26.9%, while others include fetal distress, malpresentation, obstructed labour, etc. This study paves the way for further research to comprehensively understand and address the upsurge in C-section trends for improved maternal and neonatal health outcomes.

Voice Disorders in Teachers: A Quantitative Assessment Using the Voice Symptom Scale in a Saudi Arabian Town

2025-07-08T20:17:45+00:00

The human voice is an essential tool for communication, particularly in teaching, one of the most vocally demanding professions. Persistent voice use can lead to vocal strain and hoarseness, impacting teachers’ professional performance and quality of life. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of hoarseness of voice and identify associated risk factors among school teachers in Bisha, Saudi Arabia, using the Voice Symptom Scale (VoiSS).A cross-sectional study was conducted in 15 schools across Bisha, in Saudi Arabia involving 101 randomly selected school teachers. Data were collected using a pre-tested, validated questionnaire that included demographic details, voice usage patterns, lifestyle habits, and the VoiSS. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were conducted using SPSS version 27 to identify associations between hoarseness and various risk factors. The prevalence of hoarseness of voice among participants was 63.4%. Female teachers and those with less than 20 years of teaching experience were significantly more affected (P = 0.003). Coffee consumption showed a statistically significant association with increased VoiSS scores (P = 0.041), while other factors such as age, smoking, and voice amplification usage were not significantly associated. Hoarseness of voice is highly prevalent among school teachers in Bisha, particularly among females and those with shorter teaching experience. Lifestyle factors such as coffee intake may exacerbate voice symptoms. These findings underscore the need for preventive measures, including vocal health education, voice amplification tools, and access to medical care, to reduce the burden of voice disorders in educators.

Medical Camp in Rural Area (Bara Hotar) of Abbottabad District

2025-06-27T07:12:53+00:00

To present the demographics, medical diagnoses, and treatments provided to attendees of the free medical camp in the Abbottabad district's Bara Hotar area. Cross sectional descriptive study. A medical camp of one day duration was established in BaraHotar area of District Abbottabad in August 2024. Camp was staffed by doctors, nurses and assistants of Women Medical College, Abbottabad. At the entrance, the attending patients' details were noted, and at the dispensary where the medications were administered, diagnoses and the medications were noted. The medical camp was attended by 72 patients. The patients' ages ranged from 2 months to 80 years, with a mean age of 27.19 years. 68.1% (49) of the patients were male. The most common complaints were related to the gastrointestinal system (20.8%), musculoskeletal system (18.1%), teeth (20.8%), and visual acuity (5.4%). Additional frequent concerns were associated with obstetrics, dermatology, and ENT (ear, nose, and throat). Of the 72 prescriptions that were documented, the most frequently prescribed medications were anthelminthics (15.3%), multivitamins (5.6%), analgesics (4.2%), and antibiotics (38.9%). The majority of Abbottabad's rural residents suffer from gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, and dental conditions. These camps are advised until a sufficiently affordable healthcare system is established to serve remote rural communities.

Discovery and Analysis of Novel Phage DSI29 with Potent Activity Against Escherichia coli

2025-07-16T18:34:33+00:00

Escherichia coli is a common foodborne pathogen that can result in life-threatening diseases and represents a serious burden to food safety management. With the advent of the post-antibiotic era, bacteriophages have generated great attention as promising biocontrol agents for their selective action against bacteria and lysis them. Here, we describe the isolation and charcaterization of a new E. coli-infecting phage DSI29, isolated from a freshwater sample in Joypurhat, Bangladesh. DSI29 phage has a wide host range and a lytic performance to E. coli, implying that the phage is applicable for food safety. Subsequent work revealed its stability to different pH and temperatures, rendering it appropriate for a broad range of environments. Because of its pure lytic lifestyle and powerful bacteriolytic activity, the DSI29 has promising potential as a biocontrol agent in food manufacturing systems. These results reveal the potential of phage therapies in controlling E. coli contamination, a sustainable alternative to conventional antibiotics.

Medical Students’ Perception Regarding Ways to Enhance Efficacy of Online Practical Teaching

2025-06-28T15:27:22+00:00

Online education has become increasingly important in modern medical education due to its accessibility and scalability. It gained significant traction during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, teaching practical skills virtually presents specific challenges. This study aims to assess medical students’ perceptions of online practical sessions and gather strategies to improve virtual skill acquisition. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Women Medical and Dental College from March to May 2021. A total of 200 medical students from first and second year MBBS/BDS participated. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire distributed through Microsoft Office Forms, using non-probability convenience sampling. Among the 200 respondents, 68% reported difficulty in learning practical skills online. About 76% expressed concern over potential negative impacts on future clinical competence. Multimedia tools (audio, video, graphic) were preferred by 61%. Additionally, 78% of students recommended teachers take breaks to assess understanding, and 98% supported repetition of key points. The DEDICT (Demonstrate, Explain, demonstrate, Imitate, Coach, Test) teaching method was rated effective by 83%, and 80% preferred receiving pre-session demonstration videos Peer interaction was seen as beneficial by 82% of students, and 55% preferred wanted practical method of teaching over live sessions. A blended learning model was favored by 66%. Students strongly support a blended approach for teaching practical skills. Key strategies include the use of visual aids, repeated content, interactive teaching, and student engagement. These methods can enhance the effectiveness of online practical education.