1. Fall Risk Assessment Among Residents of Ulaanbaatar
Bolor-Erdene M ; Amarsaikhan D ; Amarsaikhan L ; Borte E ; Myadagmaa J
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;88(4):71-74
Background:
Globally, approximately 684,000 deaths occur annually due to falls. In Mongolia, 47 individual aged
between 45 and 85 have died as a result of falls. Therefore, there is a pressing need to assess fall risks among the general
population in Mongolia and identify risk factors to prevent accidents and injuries.
Aim:
To assess the risk of falls among individuals aged 45 years and older who are receiving care at tertiary-level referral
hospitals in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 408 participants aged 45 years and above who
were attending tertiary-level hospitals in Ulaanbaatar. Fall risk was assessed using the internationally recognized Falls
Risk Assessment Tool (FRAT) questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0.
Results:
The mean age of the participants was 59.24±6.54 years; 40% were male and 60% were female. Among the
participants, 45.3% (n=185) were categorized as low risk, 33.6% (n=137) as moderate risk, and 21.1% (n=86) as high risk
for falls. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify significant risk factors associated with falls. Key factors
included: slippery shoe soles (OR=0.226, 95% CI: 0.119–0.428, p=0.001), performing unexpected hazardous movements
while changing positions (OR=0.262, 95% CI: 0.143–0.480, p=0.001), use of assistive walking devices (OR=0.209, 95%
CI: 0.110–0.397, p=0.001), anxiety or unstable mental status (OR=0.276, 95% CI: 0.148–0.514, p=0.001), tendency
to resist instructions or behave stubbornly (OR=0.330, 95% CI: 0.183–0.596, p=0.001), difficulty in recognizing the
surrounding environment (OR=0.354, 95% CI: 0.187–0.671, p=0.001), and a history of previous falls (OR=4.737, 95%
CI: 2.151–10.429).
Conclusion
1. Based on the FRAT assesment, 45.3% of participants had low fall risk, 33.6% moderate risk, and 21.1% high risk.
2. Risk factors such as sudden movements, the use of assistive devices, and emotional instability significantly influence fall risk assessment, and individuals with a history of previous falls are 4.7 times more likely to experience
another fall.
2.Association between serum cryoglobulinemia and clinical manifestation in chronic hepatitis C patients
Amin-Erdene G ; Gantogtokh D ; Yumchinsuren Ts ; Dolgion D ; Bolor U ; Otgongerel N ; Enkhmend Kh ; Ganchimeg D ; Tulgaa L ; Sarnai Ts ; Batbold B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;88(4):92-99
Background:
The most common clinical manifestation of HCV infection, which includes both hepatic and extrahepatic
manifestations, is mixed cryoglobulinemia, which is characterized by the precipitation of certain proteins in the blood at
temperatures below 37°C (in vitro), aggregation, and deposition in the walls of small and medium-sized vessels, causing
vasculitis, which is clinically manifested by a triad of joint pain, fatigue, and rash on the soles of the feet. Cryoglobulinemia is commonly diagnosed in people with HCV infection, with a prevalence ranging from 10% to 70%. Vasculitis that
occurs when cryoglobulinemia is detected mainly affects the small vessels of the skin, kidneys, and peripheral nerves,
causing complications in other organ systems.
Aim :
To determine the prevalence of cryoglobulinemia in people with HCV infection, study it in relation to the stage of
liver fibrosis, and determine its clinical relevance.
Materials and Methods :
200 chronic HCV infected individuals were included in the study according to the inclusion
and exclusion criteria. After obtaining informed consent from each participant, a questionnaire was used to collect information, perform physical measurements, and collect peripheral blood samples. Complete blood count and biochemical
tests (liver and kidney function) were performed. The degree of liver fibrosis was assessed non-invasively (APRI, FIB4). The glomerular filtration rate was calculated electronically using the MDRD GFR Equation. Skin examination was
performed to assess the presence of rash, ulcers, and scarring on the shins and ankles of cryoglobulinemia. To determine
cryoglobulinemia, 8 ml of blood was collected in a tube without anticoagulant, and the sample was kept motionless for
1 hour at room temperature until clotting was complete. After centrifugation, the samples were separated and stored in a
refrigerator at +4°C for 7 days, and then at room temperature for 30 minutes, the precipitate was detected.
Results :
A total of 200 people participated in the study, of which 71 were men (35.5%), the average age was 53.39±13.0.
Cryoglobulinemia protein precipitates were determined in a total of 148 people, of which 50 were men (33.8%), the
average age was 52.95±13.0. Cryoglobulinemia protein precipitates were detected in 89 people, or 60.1% of the study
participants. Of the total study participants, 176 (88.0%) had chronic hepatitis C (CHC). Of these, 57 people had CHC
with cryoglobulinemia. Comparing laboratory parameters, the mean GGT level in the cryoglobulinemia group was statistically significantly higher than in the non-cryoglobulinemia group (p=0.039). However, when laboratory parameters
were grouped by increasing or decreasing, AST and ALT levels were significantly higher in the cryoglobulinemia group,
indicating more hepatocellular damage (p<0.000). Increased creatinine levels may be associated with the risk of renal
dysfunction. The FIB-4 index and APRI index showed a more severe degree of fibrosis in the cryoglobulinemia group
(p<0.005; p<0.000). Univariate logistic regression analysis showed that age was associated with the occurrence of cryoglobulinemia (OR=2.48; 95% CI:1.31–4.70; p=0.005). Platelet count had a statistically significant positive effect in multivariate analysis (OR=14.38; 95% CI:1.26–163.89; p=0.032).
Conclusion
The prevalence of cryoglobulinemia among HCV-infected patients was 60.1%, and older age and decreased
platelet count among infected individuals were associated with the occurrence of cryoglobulinemia.
3.Efficacy of probiotic mouthwash in treatment of plaque-induced gingivitis
Khongorzul S ; Namuundari G ; Narantuul Ch ; Saranchimeg A ; Bolor N ; Khulan G ; Angar S ; Buyanbileg S ; Nyamsuren E ; Oyun-Enkh P ; Oyunkhishig Kh ; Bayarchimeg B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;88(4):112-116
Background:
In the treatment of plaque-induced gingivitis, in addition to mechanical plaque control, the use of chemical
plaque control such as mouth rinses for a certain period has shown a positive effect on treatment outcomes and prognosis.
Aim:
To evaluate the efficacy of a probiotic mouthwash in the treatment of plaque-induced gingivitis.
Materials and Methods:
A randomized controlled clinical trial was designed for a period of 2 weeks on 45 systemically
healthy subjects between 20 and 25 years having plaque-induced gingivitis. The study population was divided into three
groups. Group 1-15 subjects were advised experimental (probiotic) mouthwash. Group 2-15 subjects were advised positive control (chlorhexidine) mouthwash and Group 3-15 subjects into a negative control group. Oral prophylaxis was
done for all groups at baseline. After the proper oral hygiene instructions, groups 1 and 2 were instructed to rinse their
mouth with 15 ml of their respective mouthwashes, for 1 min twice daily, 30 min after brushing. Clinical parameters such
as Full mouth plaque score (FMPS), Full mouth bleeding score (FMBS) were assessed at baseline, 2 weeks respectively.
Results:
At baseline, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of FMBS and FMPS
mean values (p=0.174, p=0.887). At day 14, the FMPS, FMBS mean values were significantly reduced by all treatment
modalities ranking probiotic and chlorhexidine is greater than negative control group (p<0.001, p<0.001).
Conclusion
The probiotic mouthwash was effectively used as an adjunct to mechanical plaque control in the treatment
of plaque-induced gingivitis.
4. Clinical study of some traditional medicines for the treatment of ischemic heart disease (TMK00.2)
Bolor ; Nasandalai ; Alimaa T
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;88(4):117-121
Background:
In traditional Mongolian medicine, ischemic heart disease are treated by balancing the body, promoting the
flow of khii and blood, improving the metabolism, suppressing inflammation, increasing heart strength, relieving pain,
and treating the disease according to its actual condition. Therefore, a study was conducted to investigate the effects of
traditional medicines Heart Agar-8 and Zandan-3 on ischemic heart disease.
Aim:
Studying the therapeutic effects of some traditional medicines used in the treatment of ischemic heart disease.
Materials and Methods:
Clinical trial was performed in an uncontrolled, single-centered, and open-study design. A total
of 48 patients with ischemic heart disease who met the inclusion criteria participated in the study. The study was conducted by giving people 3 grams of Heart Agar-8 and 3 grams of Zandan-3 medicine, each once a day, for a total of 3 weeks.
The results of the study were assessed before and after the study using the SAQ questionnaire, the chronic coronary syndromes (CCS) questionnaire, 6-minute walk test, and electrocardiogram. The research was conducted in accordance with
the appropriate ethical approvals (No. 24-25/03-01), (No. 2024-077) and confirmed by an informed consent form. Clinical
trial research results were processed using T-test, Paired T-test.
Results:
A total of 48 people diagnosed with ischemic heart disease (TMK00.2) were included in the study. The average
age of the study participants was 53.94±1.69, with the youngest being 44 and the oldest being 60. Regarding the gender
of the respondents, 15 (31.25%) were men and 33 (68.75%) were women. When comparing pre-treatment results with
post-treatment results using the SAQ, there were improvements in mobility (p<0.000), chest stability (p<0.012), chest
pain (p<0.000), treatment satisfaction (p<0.001), and quality of life assessment (p<0.000). When assessing chronic cor
onary syndrome in people, 44 or 91.6% of the total number of people included in the study had a level II score before
treatment, while 37 or 77.08% had a level I score after treatment, which was a statistically significant difference between
the pre-treatment and post-treatment indicators (p<0.034). Cardiac function was assessed by the 6-minute walk test,
which was 393.9±36.73 meters before treatment, or grade II, but improved to 456.83±48.6 meters after treatment, or grade
I (p<0.000).
Conclusions
1. People diagnosed with ischemic heart disease have shown statistically significant results when given the traditional
medicine Heart Agar-8 and Zandan-3 in combination with clinical trials.
2. The study participants experienced statistically significant improvements in mobility, usual activities, pain, and
depression, improved quality of life, and increased functional status in coronary heart disease.
5.Indoor Particulate Matter Concentration in Households of Darkhan City
Nyamdorj J ; Bolor M ; Maralmaa E ; Yerkyebulan M ; Ser-Od Kh ; Myagmarchuluun S ; Shatar Sh ; Gantuya D ; Gregory C. Gray ; Junfeng Zhang ; Ulziimaa D ; Damdindorj B ; Khurelbaatar N ; Davaalkham D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;85(1):25-29
Background:
A 2018 study on the global burden of disease, accidents, and risk factors reported that 1.6 million peo
ple died in 2017 due to household air pollution. Poor indoor air quality has been highlighted as a contributing factor to
respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and exacerbation of asthma and allergies. A 2019 study estimated that
long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less reduces average life
expectancy by 1.8 years, with more severe effects in highly polluted regions. Additionally, a study by Miller et al. (2007)
found that prolonged exposure to PM2.5 increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, particularly among women. Direct
measurement devices are highly effective in determining indoor PM2.5 concentrations, identifying sources of pollution,
tracking pollutant dispersion, and monitoring temporal variations. Studies suggest that direct measurement is an accurate,
cost-effective method that provides detailed data suitable for local conditions.
Aim:
To investigate the indoor air quality of houses and apartments in Darkhan city during the winter season using the
Purple Air monitoring device.
Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted with a targeted sample of 128 households in Darkhan
city. The study examined factors such as stove type, type of coal used, annual and daily coal consumption, frequency of
heating, and chimney sealing conditions. To collect data, the Purple Air monitoring device was installed in each house
hold for a month, after which it was retrieved. During retrieval, participants completed a questionnaire. The questionnaire
consisted of 55 questions across 7 pages at the time of device installation and 25 questions across 3 pages at the time of
device retrieval. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS 25.0.
Results:
A total of 128 households in Darkhan city participated in the study. The average duration of residence in the
current home was 9.5 years, with no statistically significant variation. The distribution of housing types was as follows:
traditional Mongolian gers (40.6%), houses (39.1%), and apartments (20.3%). The 24-hour average PM2.5 concentration
was highest in gers (70.9 μg/m³), followed by houses (46.8 μg/m³) and apartments (22.8 μg/m³), with a statistically significant difference (p=0.0001). PM2.5 levels were most variable in gers, followed by houses and then apartments. House
holds using central heating (apartments) had an average 24-hour PM2.5 concentration of 22.8 μg/m³, whereas households
using stoves (gers and houses) had a significantly higher concentration of 59.4 μg/m³ (p=0.0001). However, there was
no statistically significant difference between traditional and improved stoves. Among study participants, 21.4% reported
that someone in their household smoked indoors. Additionally, 86.5% regularly burned incense, candles, or herbs, while
99.2% did not use an air purifier.
Conclusion
The indoor particulate matter concentration in houses and gers in Darkhan was 59.4μг/m3. Variations in
stove types, poor chimney sealing limited space, and frequent gaps and cracks contribute to increased spread of indoor
air pollutants.
6.Study of the factors associated with colorectal cancer
Ankhzaya B ; Enkhmend Kh ; Nomin-Erdene D ; Bolor U ; Nyamsuren M ; Sonor Z ; Chinzorig M ; Erkhembayar E ; Tsenguun G ; Yumchinsuren Ts ; Ganchimeg D ; Tegshjargal B ; Tulgaa L ; Batbold B
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2025;211(1):18-27
Introduction:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) data from 2022, 19.9 million people were
diagnosed with cancer globally, and 9.7 million people died from the disease. In recent years,
the incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) has been rapidly increasing, ranking 4th among all
cancers with 18.4 cases and 8.1 deaths per 100,000 population. In Mongolia, 826 new cases
of CRC have been registered over the past six years, with an incidence rate of 8.2 cases and
a mortality rate of 5.03 per 100,000 population. It is projected that by 2030, the incidence will
reach 13.28 cases and the mortality rate will rise to 8.72 per 100,000 population. We aimed
to comprehensively examine the risk factors for colorectal cancer among the population
of Mongolia, establish a scientific basis for early detection and prevention, and strengthen
preventive measures.
Materials and Methods:
A case-control study was conducted from 2022 to 2024. The study enrolled a total of 305
subjects, including 98 patients with colorectal cancer, 101 patients with colon polyps, and
106 healthy subjects. The risk. questionnaire consisted of 50 questions divided into 10
sections. All statistical analysis was performed with SPSS version 23.0 software (SPSS Inc.,
Chicago, IL, USA) and P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. categorical
data was represented as numbers and percentages. Pearson’s chi-squared and Fisher’s
exact test were used to compare categorical variables. Multivariate logistic regression was
used to identify the risk factor associated with recurrence. The study protocol was approved
by Ethics Review Committee of Ministry of Health of Mongolia on 17 March 2023 (approval
number: 23/012).
Results:
The average age of the participants was 57.1±12.8 years. Among all study participants,
37.6% (115) were male and 62.4% (188) were female. Comparison of colorectal cancer
incidence by age and gender revealed no statistically significant differences (p=0.021;
p=0.422). Regular physical exercise was found to have a protective effect against colorectal
cancer (p=0.076; OR 0.341 95% Cl 0.118-.0986). The frequency of fruit consumption, 4 to 6
times per week (p=0.008, OR 0.08, 95% Cl 0.01-0.45), frequency of vegetable consumption
4 to 6 times per week (p<0.00; OR 0.07, 95% Cl 0.02-0.19), no dining out (0.007, OR 0.3,
95% Cl 0.18-0.68), and meat consumption (p=0.001) are decreased risk of colorectal cancer.
Conclusion
The patient's age and the presence of colon polyps are risk factors for colorectal cancer,
while regular physical activity and a diet rich in fruits and vegetables are protective factors
that help reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer.
7.Assessment result of maintain a proper hand hygiene conditions in healthcare facilities of Mongolia
Bolor B ; Batdulam D ; Nasantogtokh S ; Myagmardorj Ch ; Myagmarjargal M ; Unurzaya E ; Oyun-Erdene O ; Enkhjargal A ; Tsegmed S
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2025;211(1):28-35
Introduction:
Safe and accessible WASH services in healthcare facilities are crucial for maintaining high
quality care, especially for maternal and newborn health. The WHO-UNICEF JMP on Water
Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene provides reports on progress in water supply, sanitation,
and hygiene services at global, regional, and national levels, covering populations, schools,
and healthcare facilities. This assessment was conducted to address the insufficient data on
the level of hand hygiene services in healthcare facilities, following the methodology of the
JMP.
Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted in 319 healthcare facilities. Availability of hand hygiene
services in the study healthcare facilities was assessed using questionnaire of methodology
of the JMP. Data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0 software. Relevant parametric and non
parametric statistical analysis were conducted.
Results:
Overall, 72% and 28% of healthcare facilities had basic and limited hand hygiene service
respectively. About 18% of private healthcare facilities had limited hand hygiene service
compared to 34% of state healthcare facilities. While 20% of urban healthcare facilities had
limited hand hygiene service, 56% of rural healthcare facilities do. When examining the
level of hand hygiene services by type of medical care, specialty hospitals have 100% basic
services. Among primary care facilities, 83% of family health centers provide basic services,
while 41% of soum and village health centers meet these standards.
Conclusion
The basic hand hygiene services in urban healthcare facilities and specialty hospitals were
generally sufficient. There need to enhance basic hand hygiene service at the soum and village level. Among the assessed facilities, 81.0% met four out of the five key hand hygiene
requirements outlined in the national standard. However, additional budget allocation for
maintenance and operational costs for keeping soap and sustaining water running remains
crucial to ensure sustained compliance and quality.
8.Studying the relationship between Cryoglobulinemia and liver fibrosis in patients with chronic Hepatitis C virus infection
Amin-Erdene G ; Gantogtokh D ; Turmanduul Ch ; Yumchinsuren Ts ; Dolgion D ; Enkhmend Kh ; Bolor U ; Otgongerel N ; Ganchimeg D ; Tegshjargal B ; Tulgaa L ; Batbold B
Diagnosis 2024;111(4):10-19
Introduction:
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has both hepatic and extrahepatic manifestations, and it is one of the leading cause of liver transplantation. There’s limited research on extrahepatic symptoms of chronic HCV in Mongolia, thus we aimed to investigate the relationship between cryoglobulinemia and it’s related factors.
Methods:
The study included 200 participants with active HCV, collecting blood samples for various tests (biochemical analysis, kidney function, and cryoglobulinemia detection). The degree of liver fibrosis was assessed using APRI and FIB4 scores, and the study evaluated other health conditions through a questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS-26.
Results:
Out of 200 participants, 148 checked for cryoglobulin precipitation and 89 (60.1%) were positive. There
was a statistically significant age difference between those with and without cryoglobulinemia (54.62 vs. 50.44 years). A higher percentage of participants with cryoglobulinemia had significant liver fibrosis (10.8% vs. 4.7% without). Liver fibrosis scores tended to increase with age, especially in men.
Conclusion
Liver fibrosis scores above 3.25 are associated with older age, lower platelet counts, elevated AST and ALT levels, and the presence of cryoglobulinemia. FIB4 scores were higher in men with active HCV and cryoglobulinemia.
9.Metabolic changes of overweight and obese adults
Yumchinsuren Ts ; Dolgion D ; Ganchimeg D ; Enkhmend Kh ; Otgongerel N ; Gantogtokh D ; Amin-Erdene G ; Bolor U ; Tegshjargal S ; Batbold B ; Shiirevnyamba A ; Tulgaa L
Diagnosis 2024;111(4):97-104
Introduction:
The worldwide prevalence of obesity and its metabolic complications have increased substantially in recent decades. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) indicate that in 2016, over 1.9 billion
adults were overweight and, of these, over 650 million were obese. Obesity is a major risk factor for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, steatotic liver, chronic liver disease, stroke, and some cancers. The global prevalence of obesity and its associated comorbidities continue to increase on a pandemic scale.
Aim:
To determine metabolic changes in overweight and obese adults and their related diseases based on some parameters of anthropometric and laboratory tests.
Materials and Methods:
This study was conducted with a case-control design in 2023–2024. There were 150 participants in
the study, 50 in the control group with normal weight, 50 in the overweight (BMI<29.9kg/m2)
case group, and 50 in the obesity (BMI>30kg/m2) case group. Subjects of three groups were matched by age (±1) and sex. We estimated anthropometric parameters and biochemical
laboratory analysis including glucose, lipid, ferrum, and liver parameters. CBC All statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 23 software. Categorical variables were described by numbers and percentages, and the numerical variables were characterized by the median (min and max) for the normal distribution, and mean± standard deviation for the non-normal distribution. The statistical
tests utilized were the Chi-square, Fisher’s exact, student t-test, and Mann–Whitney tests. Ethical approval for the survey was obtained from the Medical Ethics Committee under the Ministry of Health Of Mongolia in January 2023.
Results:
The participants' average age was 46.73±11.45, with 60% being women (90) and 40% being men (60). The prevalence of central obesity and fat % were 52.3% and 37.2%, respectively. Between study
groups, there were significant differences in fat% (p=0.004), central obesity (p<0.001), FBG (p=0.024), cholesterin (p=0.017), LDL (p=0.018), HDL (p=0.003), ferrum (p=0.010), АЛАТ (p=0.020), and GGT (p<0.001).
Conclusion
In overweight and obesity groups, the body fat, fasting blood glucose, cholesterol, LDL, and ALT levels are
increased. These changes often lead to conditions like type 2 diabetes, arterial hypertension, steatotic liver disease, and liver fibrosis. Therefore, it is important to develop plans for prevention, early detection,
public awareness, and intervention programs targeting obesity in the general population.
10. Does air pollution affect liver disease?
Bolor B ; Enkhjargal A ; Burmaajav B
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2024;207(1):52-59
Liver disease accounts for approximately 2 million deaths per year worldwide and is responsible for
4% of all deaths. Acute hepatitis accounts for a smaller amount of mortality, with complications from
cirrhosis and other chronic liver diseases being the main causes of death. It is mostly brought on
by nonalcoholic liver disease, alcohol abuse, infections (chronic hepatitis B and C viruses), and air
pollution.
In the last 10 years, the number of deaths caused by hepatocellular carcinoma has been continuously
increasing in Mongolia, and it ranks first in the world in terms of deaths caused by hepatocellular
carcinoma per 100,000 population, which is 8 times higher than the world average.
Mongolia is one of the most polluted countries in the world. Globally it is estimated that 9 out of 10
breathe polluted air and about 7 million deaths are attributed to air pollution. Studies on epidemiology
have found an association between ambient air pollution and some liver diseases, including cirrhosis,
liver cancer, and fatty liver disease related to metabolic disorders. This is an issue with global health.
Exposure to PM2.5 is linked to the development of inflammation, which may be a major risk factor
in the advancement of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. According to the literature review, exposure
to PM is associated with systemic inflammation, a rise in plasma triglycerides, LDL and VLDL, pro
inflammatory cytokines, and insulin resistance.
Many epidemiological and ecological studies were done in Mongolia on air pollution and health.
However, it is still not clear how much ambient air pollution can cause cirrhosis and non-alcoholic fatty
liver disease incidence in Mongolia.
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