OBJECTIVES

his quantitative cross-sectional study aimed to determine the level of knowledge, attitude, and practices
regarding COVID-19 vaccination of unvaccinated adult patients admitted at Region II Trauma and Medical Center
(R2TMC). This may help determine the knowledge gap regarding COVID-19 vaccination, address it, and to achieve
the goal to vaccinate all eligible Filipinos. Furthermore, this may also be a springboard for future researches and
management regarding novel infections needing new vaccinations.

METHODS

Collected data from the sample size of 197 using the formula for finite population with 95% confidence
level, population proportion of 50%, population size of 400, allowing 5% margin of error were summarized in a
Microsoft excel database and tables, then were analyzed using Jamovi version 2.6.22 software. Frequency, mean,
and standard deviation were calculated to measure the knowledge, attitude, and practices; Pearson correlation and
Kendall’s Tau b correlation for its relationship.

RESULTS

There is moderate level of knowledge (MS: 9.80-11.8), a positive attitude (MR: 2.35-2.60), and good preventive
practices (MS: 12.00-13.00) regarding SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) vaccination among the unvaccinated adult in-patients
of R2TMC post-pandemic. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices statistically differed (pCONCLUSION

There is a significant correlation among the knowledge of the respondents about COVID-19 vaccination,
their attitude towards it, and their practices, implying that promoting preventive behaviors toward COVID-19 would
require promoting both knowledge and efficacy beliefs among the public.

Human ; Bacteria ; Male ; Female ; Adult: 25-44 Yrs Old ; Middle Aged: 45-64 Yrs Old ; Wounds And Injuries ; Population Density ; Cross-sectional Studies ; Forecasting ; Sars-cov-2 ; Sars Virus ; Covid-19

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the current status of clinical genetics specialization development and the diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities for hereditary diseases across medical institutions in Shanghai, and to assess the necessity and feasibility of establishing training bases for clinical genetics specialists. METHODS: By employing a cross-sectional survey design, the Clinical Genetics Committee of Shanghai Medical Association has conducted questionnaire surveys from March to April 2025 across 54 healthcare institutions in Shanghai (including 33 tertiary hospitals and 21 secondary hospitals). The survey involved administrative departments and medical personnel from 15 clinical specialties. The survey has covered current genetic disease diagnosis and treatment practices, relevant and specialised disease types, genetic department establishment, testing capabilities, personnel teams, and training requirements. RESULTS: The results revealed that 78.0% of clinical departments surveyed had treated patients with hereditary disorders. Shanghai possesses diagnostic and therapeutic expertise for over 95% of hereditary diseases listed in its rare disease catalogue, reflecting both the practical clinical demand for such conditions and the city's overall diagnostic and therapeutic strengths in this field. Nevertheless, significant disparities exist in the development of genetics departments across different tiers of healthcare institutions. Resources for genetic testing capabilities (including molecular, cellular, and biochemical testing) are also unevenly distributed across different tiers of hospitals. The survey further revealed that only 26.0% of departments believe that their current physician structure fully meets the diagnostic and treatment demands. Over 90% of departments consider standard training for clinical genetic specialists necessary, with 74.0% expressing willingness to participate in establishing training bases. Based on above findings and thorough deliberation, the Clinical Genetics Committee of the Shanghai Medical Association proposes advancing specialist training and discipline development through establishing a standard training system. The committee has drafted a three-year training protocol featuring a "joint training"-centered model, recommending a pilot-first, dynamically optimized strategy for steadily advancing training base development. CONCLUSION Shanghai faces substantial demand for genetic disease diagnosis and treatment, yet exhibits shortcomings in clinical genetics specialization development, resource allocation, and talent pipeline cultivation. To establish a standard training system holds significant practical importance and is underpinned by a broad demand.
Humans ; China ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Genetic Diseases, Inborn/genetics* ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Genetics, Medical/education* ; Genetic Testing

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The global pandemic caused by Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has affected millions, with growing evidence of the potential role of ocular tissues in viral transmission. At the time of writing, local data regarding the phenomenon was limited. This study investigated external ocular manifestations in patients with COVID-19 at a referral center in the Philippines, examined correlations between demographics, systemic manifestations, and laboratory results with ocular manifestations, and determined their timing relative to systemic symptoms.

METHODS

This single-center, descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out from December 8 to 18, 2020 at the adult COVID-19 wards of the Philippine General Hospital involving 72 participants. Data collection involved relevant clinical history taking and performing gross eye examination. The prevalence of ocular manifestations was described with 95% confidence intervals. Correlations between ocular manifestations and quantitative variables were analyzed with point-biserial correlation, and associations with qualitative variables were tested using chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests.

RESULTS

Among participants, 31.9% presented with ocular manifestations with foreign body sensation as the most prevalent ocular symptom (11.1%) and conjunctival hyperemia as the most prevalent ocular finding (19.4%). The median age of patients with ocular manifestations was 41 years old with a higher prevalence in the male population (73.9%, CI=95%, p=0.001). No significant correlation was observed between presence of external ocular manifestations and the different systemic and ocular co-morbidities as well as with COVID-19 clinical classification. Among those who experienced symptoms, majority (29.2%) of the patients experienced systemic symptoms prior to the onset of ocular symptoms. Ocular complaints may present as the sole manifestation (13.9%). Several laboratory parameters were measured and only temperature and AST levels showed a low positive correlation with the presence of ocular manifestations. 

CONCLUSION

Ocular manifestations occur in roughly one third of patients with COVID-19 based on this study population. With some individuals presenting with ocular signs or symptoms as the initial and sole manifestation, healthcare practitioners must exercise caution and remain vigilant in managing patients who present as such. At the time of writing, this is the first local study investigating the different external ocular manifestations in patients with COVID-19. There is a need to pursue more robust studies and conduct more local investigations which will guide both ophthalmologists and other practitioners in strengthening existing guidelines regarding precautionary practices, clinical diagnosis, and management of COVID-19 patients.

Human ; Sars-cov-2 ; Covid-19 ; Philippines ; Adult ; Association ; Classification ; Collection ; Confidence Intervals ; Coronavirus ; Cross-sectional Studies ; Data Collection ; Demography ; Diagnosis ; Disease ; Exercise ; Eye ; Foreign Bodies ; History ; Hospitals ; Hospitals, General ; Hyperemia ; Laboratories ; Male ; Morbidity ; Ophthalmologists ; Pandemics ; Patients ; Population ; Prevalence ; Referral And Consultation ; Role ; Sensation ; Temperature ; Time ; Tissues ; Volition ; World Health Organization ; Writing

BACKGROUND

Professional identity plays a significant role in alleviating role stress among healthcare professionals. However, these two factors are poorly explored in the midwifery profession.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the perceived level of professional identity and role stress and the relationship between them among midwifery students.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study design was employed involving 379 midwifery students from SOCCSKSARGEN Region, Mindanao. Participants were selected through purposive sampling. Macleod Clark Professional Identity Scale (MCPIS-9) and twelve-item Role Stress Scale (RSS) were used in gathering the data. Spearman rho, point-biserial correlation, and F-test were used for data analysis.

RESULTS

The students’ mean score in professional identity was high (4.07, SD=0.46) while the mean score of the overall role stress was low (2.47, SD=0.51). There was a positive and significant relationship between age (rs=0.207, P=CONCLUSION

Midwifery students’ perceived level of professional identity was high, while their level of role stress was quite low. Age, year level, and marital status were significantly correlated with their levels of professional identity and role stress. Moreover, students with a higher level of professional identity may report low levels of role ambiguity, role overload, role conflict, and overall role stress.

Midwifery ; Students ; Role ; Cross-sectional Studies

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Telerehabilitation is the remote delivery of rehabilitation services using telecommunication technologies. Its local adoption was catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting the need to assess user acceptance. This study aimed to determine the acceptance of stroke telerehabilitation among patients, carers, and rehabilitation providers in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at St. Luke’s Medical Center – Global City and Quezon City.

METHODS

This descriptive cross-sectional study used purposive sampling to recruit 73 rehabilitation providers and 10 consumers. Data were collected using a self-administered survey based on the Technology Acceptance Model, covering perceived ease of use, usefulness, and behavioral intent. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for analysis.

RESULTS

Most providers (94.4%) were familiar with telerehabilitation, while only half of the consumers were aware of it. Acceptance was moderate among providers (mean score: 35.75 ± 8.67) and high among consumers (mean score: 31.6 ± 7.52). Female providers were less likely to accept telerehabilitation (p=0.049). Consumers identified financial constraints and lack of a companion as key barriers, while providers cited internet issues and technology use. Both groups viewed telerehabilitation positively for teleconsultation, teletherapy, and telemonitoring. Smartphones were the preferred device; Viber and Facebook Messenger were the most commonly chosen platforms.

CONCLUSION

Stroke telerehabilitation was moderately to highly accepted by rehabilitation stakeholders in two tertiary private hospitals in Manila. Findings may guide institutional planning for telerehabilitation services. Training, infrastructure support, and awareness campaigns can help address implementation barriers.

Human ; Male ; Female ; Adult: 25-44 Yrs Old ; Middle Aged: 45-64 Yrs Old ; Remote Consultation ; Physical And Rehabilitation Medicine ; Tertiary Care Centers ; Telecommunications ; Telerehabilitation ; Cross-sectional Studies ; Technology ; Stroke ; Covid-19

This study explores the impact of perceived stress on the academic performance of orthopaedic surgery residents in the Philippines. Conducted as a cross-sectional investigation, it involved 126 residents who participated in the 2024 Philippine Board of Orthopaedics In-Service Training Examination (ITE). Stress levels were assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10), while ITE scores served as the measure of academic performance. A significant negative correlation was identified between stress and academic performance (r = -0.3138, p = 0.00010). Residents experiencing high stress achieved lower scores (55.2%) compared to those with low to moderate stress (61.8%). Other demographic variables such as sex, age, marital status and type of training institution (public and private) were not significantly associated with stress level findings. On the other hand, key factors contributing to elevated stress included insufficient sleep (0–4 hours nightly; OR = 5.83, p = 0.0289) and limited awareness of mental health issues (OR = 13.34, p = 0.0014). These results highlight the pressing need for stress reduction initiatives, improved mental health education and strategies to address challenges posed by sleep deprivation and extensive work hours. This study provides a foundation for improving both academic outcomes and overall well-being in residency programs.

Human ; Male ; Female ; Adult: 25-44 Yrs Old ; World Health Organization ; Sleep Deprivation ; Internship And Residency ; Health Education ; Cross-sectional Studies ; Marital Status

In the Philippines, the rate of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remains high, and statistics show that the highest prevalence is among individuals between the ages of 15 and 24 years old. Unlike Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), other common STIs, such as gonorrhea, syphilis, HPV and herpes are not well discussed.

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the knowledge, awareness and misconceptions of STIs and their practices among men and women aged 15-24 in Sampaloc, Manila. Convenience sampling was conducted among 15- to 24-year-old residents from Barangay 466, excluding healthcare professionals. Sets of questions were adapted from other knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) research studies and underwent cross-cultural validation. Questions were also translated and validated into the Filipino language. Data gathering was conducted using self-administered surveys disseminated through online posting and in-community, as well as face-to-face recruitment.

Among the 104 respondents, HIV remained the most recognized STI (99%), while less than half were aware that chlamydia and hepatitis B are STIs. The most common misconception about STI transmission includes the sharing of food and drinks. In terms of prevention, more than half of the participants believed that oral contraceptive pills can prevent STIs. With regards to attitude, 43.3% of the participants disagreed that watching/reading pornographic materials can contribute to risky sexual practices. Among sexually active participants, 19% do not use condoms, and 65% of them do not get tested annually.

In conclusion, the findings from this study reveal a concerning gap in KAP related to STIs among participants aged 15-24 Filipinos. It is recommended that efforts should be directed towards targeted education campaigns and interventions to empower young individuals with accurate information and foster a responsible approach to sexual health.

Human ; Adolescent: 13-18 Yrs Old ; Young Adult: 19-24 Yrs Old ; Surveys And Questionnaires ; Sexually Transmitted Diseases ; Residence Characteristics ; Cross-sectional Studies ; Reproductive Health

OBJECTIVES

In the past decade, the prevalence of diabetes in the Philippines has been increasing. The prevalence of diabetes is 7.1% and it is the sixth leading cause of death among adults. Preventive measures to address the incidence of diabetes, as well as diabetes-related complications, have been in place. However, knowledge of the risk factors for developing cardiovascular or renal-related Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) complications has numerous benefits for T2DM patients. This study aimed to describe common risk factors among Filipino T2D patients which increase their risk of developing cardiorenal complications including Heart Failure and CKD. Furthermore, the study aimed to assess the
awareness of T2DM patients regarding these risk factors

METHODS

A clinic-based cross-sectional survey among Filipinos with T2DM Philippines was conducted in the different regions in the Philippines from April 2021 to January 2022. The study participants were 16,268 patients of various ages and sex, however, only 11,578 of them answered the form completely. The patients and their corresponding physicians answered a validated self-assessment form on whether they had 8 identified risk factors for T2DM.

RESULTS

This survey identified Hypertension as the most common risk factor present in 96.49% of T2DM patients followed by Dyslipidemia (82.56%), Family History of CVD (77.11%), Obesity (59.66%), Kidney Disease (38.08%), Personal History of CVD (36.22%), Smoking (35.49%) and Family History of Kidney Disease (33.05%). Most patients were aware of the presence of these risk factors. However, there were some identified by the physician but unknown to the patient. In decreasing order of frequency, these were personal history of heart and blood vessel diseases (7.19%), followed by family history of kidney disease (5.44%) and smoking (5.1%).

CONCLUSION

This survey was able to identify crucial risk factors in developing T2DM complications that are most common among T2DM patients in the Philippines. Furthermore, for the first time, the study was able to show the level of awareness of T2DM patients regarding the risk factors that they have in developing these complications. These data show the importance of determining and addressing the common risk factors in preventing T2DM complications. Moreover, identification of these risk factors is an important step in prevention of cardiorenal complications.

Identification (psychology) ; Cross-sectional Studies ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 ; Diabetes Complications ; Kidney Diseases

BACKGROUND

Professional identity plays a significant role in alleviating role stress among healthcare professionals. However, these two factors are poorly explored in the midwifery profession.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the perceived level of professional identity and role stress and the relationship between them among midwifery students.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study design was employed involving 379 midwifery students from SOCCSKSARGEN Region, Mindanao. Participants were selected through purposive sampling. Macleod Clark Professional Identity Scale (MCPIS-9) and twelve-item Role Stress Scale (RSS) were used in gathering the data. Spearman rho, point-biserial correlation, and F-test were used for data analysis.

RESULTS

The students’ mean score in professional identity was high (4.07, SD=0.46) while the mean score of the overall role stress was low (2.47, SD=0.51). There was a positive and significant relationship between age (rs=0.207, P=CONCLUSION

Midwifery students’ perceived level of professional identity was high, while their level of role stress was quite low. Age, year level, and marital status were significantly correlated with their levels of professional identity and role stress. Moreover, students with a higher level of professional identity may report low levels of role ambiguity, role overload, role conflict, and overall role stress.

Midwifery ; Students ; Role ; Cross-sectional Studies

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Telerehabilitation is the remote delivery of rehabilitation services using telecommunication technologies. Its local adoption was catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting the need to assess user acceptance. This study aimed to determine the acceptance of stroke telerehabilitation among patients, carers, and rehabilitation providers in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at St. Luke’s Medical Center – Global City and Quezon City.

METHODS

This descriptive cross-sectional study used purposive sampling to recruit 73 rehabilitation providers and 10 consumers. Data were collected using a self-administered survey based on the Technology Acceptance Model, covering perceived ease of use, usefulness, and behavioral intent. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for analysis.

RESULTS

Most providers (94.4%) were familiar with telerehabilitation, while only half of the consumers were aware of it. Acceptance was moderate among providers (mean score: 35.75 ± 8.67) and high among consumers (mean score: 31.6 ± 7.52). Female providers were less likely to accept telerehabilitation (p=0.049). Consumers identified financial constraints and lack of a companion as key barriers, while providers cited internet issues and technology use. Both groups viewed telerehabilitation positively for teleconsultation, teletherapy, and telemonitoring. Smartphones were the preferred device; Viber and Facebook Messenger were the most commonly chosen platforms.

CONCLUSION

Stroke telerehabilitation was moderately to highly accepted by rehabilitation stakeholders in two tertiary private hospitals in Manila. Findings may guide institutional planning for telerehabilitation services. Training, infrastructure support, and awareness campaigns can help address implementation barriers.

Human ; Male ; Female ; Adult: 25-44 Yrs Old ; Middle Aged: 45-64 Yrs Old ; Remote Consultation ; Physical And Rehabilitation Medicine ; Tertiary Care Centers ; Telecommunications ; Telerehabilitation ; Cross-sectional Studies ; Technology ; Stroke ; Covid-19