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Association between prosthesis use to the physical functioning and quality of life among adult unilateral lower limb amputees: An analytical cross-sectional study

Gian Searle S. Alkuino ; Marvin N. Catoy ; Shieka Delanne G. Alo ; Chloie Ysabel B. Allanigue ; Sheen Queenae C. Catamin ; Sam Francesca P. Cirilo ; Walled T. Ali ; Francine Gaile D. Co ; Josephine R. Bundoc ; Ramon Jason M. Javier

Health Sciences Journal.2024;13(1):1-9.

Introduction: A prosthesis is an artificial assistive device designed to replace a missing body part (e.g., limb), secondary to a disease, injury or congenital deformities. Prostheses are often used to restore functional capacity while improving the quality of life (QoL). Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among adults aged 19 to 64 years who were permanent residents in Luzon who had undergone unilateral lower leg amputation. This epidemiologic study employed the Modified Barthel Index for activities of daily living (ADLs), the Frenchay Activities Index for instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), and the WHOQOL-BREF for QoL. Descriptive and analytical statistics of the responses of the Lower Limb Amputees (LLA) were done. Prevalence odds ratio (POR) was calculated, and statistical significance was determined. Results: Among 165 LLA respondents, only 47.88% used prostheses. Unilateral LLA who exhibited greater independence in ADLs (POR=19.22), more actively performed IADLs (POR=5.51), and had good QoL (POR=3.83) were more likely to have been using prosthesis. All these findings were statistically significant. Conclusion This study revealed a statistically significant association between prosthesis use to the physical functioning and QoL among adult unilateral LLAs. It showed that prosthetic use was likely linked with improved performance in ADLs and IADLs, and better QoL compared to those without.
Quality of Life

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Risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus among college students enrolled in Quezon City: A descriptive, cross-sectional study

Isaiah Kentz L. Calica ; Roman Carlos R. Calingo ; Luz Carissa E. Canlas ; Maria Angelou D. Cantal ; Pamela M. Comia ; Joey Brianne C. Concepcion ; Hugh Marcel V. Cruz ; Jeanne Elaine T. Cruz ; Karla B. Cuerpo ; Araceli A. Panelo

Health Sciences Journal.2024;13(1):10-17.

Introduction: In 2021, the International Diabetes Federation, reported 536 million people with diabetes, mainly from countries with lower income. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was employed using the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score (FINDRISC), a validated questionnaire which determines the risk of developing diabetes. The questionnaire was conducted online to be accomplished by students enrolled in universities located in Quezon City. Results: Among the 178 college students in Quezon City, with average age of 20 years old, 28.1% are at risk of developing T2DM. The factors contributing to the risk were: (1) Lack of physical activity of at least 30 minutes a day (51.7%); (2) lack of daily intake of vegetables and fruits or berries (52.8%); and (3) family history of DM (74.7%). Conclusion The study found that one in every four college students in Quezon City is at risk of developing T2DM in the next ten years.
Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2

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Cutaneous adverse effects of COVID- 19 vaccines: A cross-sectional study among AstraZeneca and Sinovac vaccine recipients at UERMMMCI

Jose Alberto M. Lim ; Carmela Franchesca L. Miranda ; Cathrine Ilene B. Ang ; Juanita Carmela Co- Buenviaje ; Lian C. Jamisola ; Camille B. Angeles

Health Sciences Journal.2024;13(1):26-30.

Introduction: COVID-19 has emerged as a global problem with vaccines being established as one of the best tools in its control. Of particular interest in dermatology are risks and manifestations of cutaneous reactions from such countermeasures, with strides made in documenting and associating skin reactions with vaccines against COVID-19. This study aimed to determine the incidence of cutaneous adverse reactions in recipients of recombinant ChAdOx1-S and inactivated SARS-COV-2 vaccines among healthcare personnel and employees of UERMMMCI. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done were respondents, chosen through randomized stratified cluster sampling, were given a questionnaire to elicit cutaneous adverse effects associated with COVID-19 vaccines. Results: There were198 respondents, of which 29.3% were male and 70.7% were female, with a mean age of 26.07 years. Of these respondents, 72 (36.36%) received recombinant ChAdOx1-S and 126 (63.64%) received inactivated SARS-COV-2 vaccine. For the first dose, cutaneous reactions developed in 6 (8.33%) recipients of recombinant ChAdOx1-S, and 2 (1.59%) recipients of inactivated SARS-COV-2. For the second dose, no reactions followed vaccination with recombinant ChAdOx1-S while 4 (3.17%) reactions developed after inactivated SARS-COV-2 vaccination. Lesions were mostly confined to the injection site presenting with erythema for both vaccine types. One urticarial, widespread reaction was associated with a second dose of inactivated SARS-COV-2 vaccine. Conclusions Adverse reactions to COVID-19 vaccinations have been documented which may be attributed to respective excipients rather than vaccine antigens. Due to the rare occurrence of severe anaphylactic reactions, vaccine use is recommended as they confer protection even to those with prior infections. Documented reactions in this study were observed to be mild and self- limiting similar to larger studies.
Vaccines ; COVID-19 ; Pandemics

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Association between knowledge and actual practices of family member caregivers of lowincome families on the prevention and control of soil-transmitted helminthiasis in an urban barangay: An analytical cross-sectional study

Maria Eliza S. Pascual ; Thereese Maeann C. Patron ; Rydni B. Pastor ; Maria Francel Charlyn N. Tan ; Ranee Coeline B. Tongco ; Josel R. Tanciongco ; Patrick Joshua C. Pascual ; Januario E. Sia-Cunco ; Ramon Jason M. Javier

Health Sciences Journal.2024;13(1):31-37.

Introduction: Soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) remains to be highly prevalent in the Philippines, despite the implementation of school-based bi-annual mass drug administration and other preventive measures under the Garantisadong Pambata Program by the Department of Health (DOH). Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study determined the association between the level of knowledge and the actual practices of family care givers in the prevention of STH among school-age children belonging to low-income families in an urban barangay. Results: Among 193 respondents, 97.93% had good level of knowledge of STH prevention and control, 83.42% had good hand hygiene practices, but only 39.90% adhered to the recommended bi-annual anti-helminthic prophylaxis for their school-aged children. A positive association was noted between level of knowledge and actual hand hygiene practices, but this was not statistically significant (i.e., prevalence odds ratio = 5.3, p = 0.129). Among those who did not comply with the bi-annual anti-helminthic administration, there was a prevalence odds ratio (POR) of 0.66 that the family care giver was knowledgeable on STH prevention and control, and this negative association was not statistically significant (i.e., p = 0.529). Conclusion Level of knowledge on STH prevention was positively associated with hand hygiene practices but was negatively associated with compliance with the bi-annual deworming prophylaxis. But these associations were not statistically significant.
Hand Hygiene

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Assessing the impact of cognitive competencies on the success in physician licensure examination: A case-control study

Norbert Lingling D. Uy ; Jose Ronilo G. Juangco ; Jennifer M. Nailes

Health Sciences Journal.2024;13(1):38-44.

Introduction: In the realm of education and professional licensure, the assessment of individuals’ competencies is pivotal in determining eligibility for entry into various fields of practice. Medical school assessments encompass cognitive and non-cognitive measures. The Philippines’ Physician Licensure Examination (PLE) relies solely on cognitive assessment. This study explored the predictive power of cognitive assessment in the passing the Physician Licensure Examinations. Methods: A case-control study design was done. Cognitive examination grade was defined as the average cumulative grade of written examinations in specific subjects, while the dependent variable was PLE scores. Results: The study revealed a positive association between failing written examinations and failing the Physician Licensure Examination. In all subjects, there is an observed association, but only Pharmacology reached statistical significance (OR: 2.30 CI:1.01,5.24). For the remaining subjects, although there is an association, it did not reach statistical significance (Biochemistry OR:1.42, CI: 0.43, 4.72; Medicine 3 OR:1.56, CI: 0.81, 3.0; Surgery 3 OR:1.28 CI: 0.63, 2.58). There was no association seen between failing the written examination and failing the PLE in Obstetrics (OR:0.98 CI: 0.47, 2.03). Furthermore, there was a weak positive correlation (0.18-0.31) between written examination grades and corresponding board exam subject grades for all subjects, highlighting the importance of cognitive assessments in predicting success. The research also found a statistically significant difference in PLE grades between those who failed the written examinations and those who passed. Conclusion These findings emphasized the crucial role of cognitive assessments in predicting success in the PLE and its associated board subjects. The study underscored the need for medical institutions to focus on strengthening cognitive competencies and to align the content and rigor of written examinations with the PLE. Addressing these issues would better prepare students for the licensure examination and enhance the quality of healthcare professionals entering the workforce. The results may contribute to the ongoing discussion on the effectiveness of assessment methods in medical education and licensure examinations.
Association

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Student performance in year 1 undergraduate medical education during traditional, emergency online, online and HyFlex teaching strategy: A single center study

Maria Milagros U. Magat ; Agnes A. Alba ; Maria Lilia Reyes ; Melissa Calilao ; Vinna Marie T. Quiñ ; ones ; Malou Sta. Ana

Health Sciences Journal.2024;13(1):45-54.

Background: The global pandemic caused by COVID-19, the subsequent improvement in health situation caused by anti- COVID-19 vaccination and the developments in digital technology prompted changes in undergraduate medical education as to content delivery and assessment. This study determined the difference in the performance of first year medical students in traditional face-to face, online and Hyflex teaching strategy. Methods: A non-concurrent cohort study was done to determine the performance of students in three annual subjects in Year 1 undergraduate medical education for school years 2018 to 2023. One-way ANOVA at p=0.001 determined significance of differences of variables. Results: There was no difference in the profile of students as to their sex, pre-medicine course and scores in the National Medical Admission Test (NMAT). The performance in the written examinations in Anatomy and Physiology showed significant difference (p=0.001) when the conduct of examinations was shifted online on an emergency basis. There was no difference (p=0.001) in performance in the laboratory conference sessions in Physiology, as compared to the focused group discussion sessions in Biochemistry and practical examinations in Anatomy. Conclusion Significant difference in the performance of first year medical students was observed only during the emergency shift to online examinations, otherwise the performance was similar in traditional face-to face, online and Hyflex teaching strategy.

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A rare case of anterior skull base metastasis secondary to follicular thyroid carcinoma: A systematic review and illustrative case

Keith Gerard R. Cheng ; John Emmanuel R. Torio ; Elmer Jose A. Meceda

Health Sciences Journal.2024;13(1):55-61.

Introduction: Skull base metastasis from follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) is uncommon, with an incidence of 2.5%. Presented here is a case of a 63-year-old female presenting with a 2-year history of progressive left eye proptosis, with a previous history of thyroid surgery for non-toxic goiter. Imaging findings were uncharacteristic of any common skull base tumor. Biopsy revealed follicular thyroid carcinoma. The authors used this case as basis and performed an analysis on available literature for FTC skull base metastasis to help guide management of future cases. Methods: Using PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search across PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library using MeSH keywords “Skull base,” “Metastasis,” and “Follicular Thyroid Carcinoma,” identified 18 records. After screening, 15 articles assessed for eligibility, with 8 studies meeting inclusion criteria for qualitative analysis. Results: Studies showcased a consistent age range (43 to 69 years) among patients diagnosed with FTC. Presentation varied depending on tumor location, with symptoms such as dysphagia, proptosis, epistaxis, facial dysesthesia, and visual impairment. Tumor size ranged from 3cm x 3cm x 2cm to 6.8cm x 3.9cm x 5.3cm, influencing management strategies ranging from simple biopsy to sub-temporal complete excision. Adjuvant therapies included combinations of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) with immunotherapy, multiple courses of I-131 therapy, oral radioiodine ablation, and radiotherapy, with outcomes showing improvement in most cases. Follow-up duration varied from 12 to 60 months. Conclusion FTC skull base metastasis remains to be an uncommon entity in neurosurgery. Its rarity creates a lack of established guidelines and treatment algorithms. A high index of suspicion as well as good history and physical examination skills are necessary to achieve an adequate diagnosis. Multidisciplinary teams form the cornerstone of a patient-tailored approach to its management.

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Experiences and challenges in telemedicine of physicians from the National Capital Region during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study

Ma. Shaina Isabel S. Hilomen ; Mikaela Marie A. Haveria ; Carlo Lorenzo B. Hernandez ; Denise D. Hernandez ; Gabrielle Dominique I. Herradura ; James F. Huan ; Greg Mikhail B. Hubo ; Alan June O. Icaonapo ; Jonathan C. Idolor ; Francesca Nadine Wing-Chun O. Ip ; Franciosa Luningning Gavino-Collins ; Ma. Peñ ; afrancia L. Adversario ; Teresa Diana B. Bongala

Health Sciences Journal.2023;12(2):67-77.

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic caused a shift to delivering health services through telemedicine. This study recognized the perceptions, experiences, and challenges of physicians who practice synchronous teleconsultation in the Philippines. Methods: A qualitative descriptive research design using purposive sampling, eight physicians from NCR were interviewed. Data collected were subjected to thematic analysis for common themes and integrated into an analytic narrative. Results: Eight physicians were included as participants. Different measures taken to remedy the gap included upskilling of physicians, adjustment of clerical work, ensuring data privacy, and creating a conducive workplace. Remote consultations posed limitations on physical examination and emphasized the reliance on diagnostics. Digital platforms used depended on the physician’s preference, type of practice, and patient’s accessibility. This led to an increased dependency on good internet and network service connections to ensure smooth teleconsultations. A lack of respect for the physician’s personal boundaries and work-life balance was cited as a major challenge. Conclusion Telemedicine proved to be an option to provide healthcare despite its limitations, but the shift to its practice exposed many challenges as it is not a replacement for physical consultations.
COVID-19 ; Telemedicine

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Relationship of trust on selected health information sources and COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among older adults

Eunice Simone R. Tung ; Danielle Janica Ballescas ; Xyle Arani Ysabel B. Balquiedra ; Rowell Kian B. Carig ; Rommel Angelo P. Sanchez ; Vincent Gerald M. Santos ; Janelle P. Castro ; Tricia Kaye F. Palola ; Jocelyn M. Molo

Health Sciences Journal.2023;12(2):78-84.

Introduction: In order to suppress the COVID-19 virus, several vaccines have been developed. The administration of COVID-19 vaccines entails its acceptance. However, misinformation and vaccine uncertainty are main factors that affect vaccine acceptance. This study aimed to determine the most trusted health information source, the most frequently accessed health information source, and health literacy of older adults within Metro Manila. Methods: This study employed a quantitative non-experimental design utilizing correlational and descriptive approaches. Convenience sampling was utilized via Facebook to recruit participants. The survey was adapted from four different questionnaires and went through reliability testing and expert validation. Results The researchers collected responses from a total of 123 participants. The participants were noted to have an overall high level of acceptance for the COVID-19 vaccine ( 4.10, SD ± 0.22). The study revealed that doctors were the highly trusted health information source (( =3.69, SD ± 1.30), followed by government health agencies (( =3.18, SD ± 0.73), whereas religious organizations and leaders (( =2.45, SD ± 0.48) were the least trusted sources. However, despite being the least trusted source, religious organizations and leaders were shown to be positively related (p=0.049) and highly predictive of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. The most frequently accessed health information source, health workers, have a weak correlation (r=.323) and were found to be significantly positively related (p=0.008) and highly predictive of the acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine. The credibility of health information sources is likely to influence their selection, influencing decisions and behaviors.
SARS-CoV-2 ; Geriatrics

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Self-reported confidence in general competencies and skills of clinical clerks of a private medical school for SY 2021-2022: A cross-sectional study

Aena Marii C. Besilia ; Aljun Clar O. Bitay ; Alyssa Louise V. Bometivo ; Dominique Anne B. Bongala ; Aileen Q. Briones ; Therese Justine A. Bruel ; Danessa Margaret L. Buco ; Vince Albert A. Buenviaje ; Joseph Lorenz Z. Cabinta ; Ronina Franne N. Cada ; Jose Ronilo Juangco ; Suzette M. Mendoza

Health Sciences Journal.2023;12(2):85-94.

Introduction: During the COVID-19 pandemic, medical schools shifted to blended learning. This study aimed to determine the demographic and level of confidence of a private medical school’s clinical clerks of School Year 2021-2022 on general competencies and skills. Methods: The study aimed to identify the skills that exhibited the highest and lowest levels of confidence among a group of 139 clinical clerks. Additionally, it sought to examine whether there were significant differences in confidence levels based on sex and prior clinical experience. An analytical cross-sectional study design was employed using a Google Form as the data collection tool. Results: The clerks were most confident in handwashing, and least in NGT insertion, performing digital rectal examination (DRE), and suturing. Females were more confident in history taking of obstetric and gynecologic, surgical, and medical patients, physical examination of pediatric patients, and preparing a discharge summary, while males were more confident in performing digital rectal examination. Clerks with prior medical experience were significantly more confident in foley catheter insertion, intravenous insertion, blood extraction, suturing, and performing essential intrapartum and newborn care (EINC) than those without. The results aligned with previous studies since clerks with prior experience were able to practice the skills in a psychomotor sense. Conclusion The study revealed significant differences in the confidence level on the competencies and skills for medical practice between sex and prior medical experience.
Clinical Competence

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