1.Performance of risk-based scoring systems in Colorectal cancer screening
Temuulen Ts ; Sarantuya G ; ; Oyuntsetseg Kh ; Sugar B ; Zesemdorj O ; Tsevelnorov Kh ; ; Gantuya B ; ; Sainzaya B ; Munkh-Erdene Ts ; Saruuljavkhlan B ; ; Byambajav Ts ;
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;95(5):50-56
Background:
According to the 2024 national health statistics of Mongolia, colorectal cancer accounts for 5.1% of all newly diagnosed cancers, with 74.1% detected at an advanced stage. Although population-based screening programs have recently been implemented, no studies have established a risk factor–based scoring system with an optimal cut-off value or evaluated its clinical utility in resource-limited settings in Mongolia.
Aim:
To develop a modified APCS (mAPCS) scoring system and evaluate its clinical applicability for colorectal cancer screening.
Materials and Methods:
A hospital-based prospective cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2024 and February 2026 at the outpatient clinics of the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences and the Mongolia–Japan Hospital. A total of 447 eligible participants were enrolled. Anthropometric measurements (height and weight) were obtained, and six categories of questionnaires (demographic data, APCS risk score, behavioral factors, medical history, and medication use) were administered. Eleven participants declined colonoscopy; therefore, 436 participants underwent colonoscopic examination, with histopathological evaluation performed when indicated.
Results:
A total of 436 participants were included, of whom 282 (64.7%) were female, with a mean age of 54.8±11.5 years. Colorectal adenomas (advanced and non-advanced) and colorectal cancer were detected in 199 (45.6%) participants. Among them, 43 (21.6%) had advanced colorectal neoplasia. Multivariable regression analysis identified age ≥55 years (OR 4.8), BMI ≥28 kg/m² (OR 3.6), and a family history of colorectal cancer (OR 3.1) as independent risk factors for advanced neoplasia. The optimal cut-off value for the mAPCS score was 4, with an overall diagnostic accuracy of 41.7% (sensitivity 97.7%, specificity 35.6%).
Conclusions
1. Age ≥55 years, BMI ≥28 kg/m², and a family history of colorectal cancer were identified as independent risk factors for advanced colorectal neoplasia. At a cut-off value of ≥4, the mAPCS scoring system demonstrated high sensitivity (97.7%), low specificity (35.6%), high negative predictive value (99.2%), and low positive predictive value (14.2%). 2. Therefore, the mAPCS scoring system may serve as a useful tool for risk stratification and efficient allocation of limited resources in colorectal cancer screening.
2.Results of using fecal calprotectin in the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease
Maral B ; Byambajav Ts ; ; Bira N ; ; Sugar B ; Zesemdorj O ; Khishgee D ; Gantuya B ; ; Tsevelnorov Kh ; ; Sainzaya B ; Munkh-Erdene Ts ; Saruuljavkhlan B ; ; Tuul B ; Pagamdulam L ; Sarantuya G ;
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;95(5):77-81
Background:
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic immune-related condition caused by interactions between genetics, immune dysfunction, gut microbiota changes, and environmental factors, often presenting as persistent or recurring diarrhea. Clinically, it commonly presents with chronic diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms. The global prevalence of IBD is increasing, currently affecting approximately 0.5% of the population, with projections suggesting a rise to nearly 1% by 2030. Fecal calprotectin is a neutrophil-derived S100 calcium-binding protein that is elevated in intestinal mucosal inflammation and serves as a reliable noninvasive biomarker of inflammatory activity. Due to its high stability and close association with intestinal inflammatory activity, fecal calprotectin has been established as a dependable, non-invasive marker for identifying intestinal inflammation. In clinical practice, it is extensively used to distinguish IBD from functional gastrointestinal disorders, especially irritable bowel syndrome, among patients presenting with chronic diarrhea. However, its diagnostic utility in Mongolia remains underexplored, and this study aims to determine its sensitivity and specificity in inflammatory bowel disease and compare its diagnostic performance with other inflammatory markers.
Aim:
To determine the sensitivity and specificity of fecal calprotectin in inflammatory bowel disease and to compare it with other inflammatory markers.
Materials and Methods:
A total of 109 participants aged 18-87 years with chronic diarrhea, who attended the gastroenterology outpatient clinics of the Mongolia–Japan Hospital and Intermed Hospital between December 2024 and December 2025 and provided informed consent, were enrolled in this study. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, and laboratory investigations included complete blood count, C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and measurement of fecal calprotectin levels from stool samples. Based on fecal calprotectin results, selected participants underwent colonoscopic examination as clinically indicated.
Results:
Among the 109 participants included in the study, 17.4% were diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), with a mean age of 47.41±15.52 years. Fecal calprotectin levels were significantly higher in the IBD group compared to the control group (p<0.001). Fecal calprotectin demonstrated a weak positive correlation with C-reactive protein (CRP) and leukocyte count (p=0.042, p=0.06), while no significant correlation was observed with erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). At a cutoff value of 250 µg/g, fecal calprotectin showed a sensitivity of 94.4%, specificity of 69.2%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 37.8%, and negative predictive value (NPV) of 98.4%. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis identified an optimal cutoff value of approximately 400 µg/g (AUC=0.919, Youden index=0.724), at which the sensitivity remained 94.4% and specificity increased to 78.0%. In contrast, CRP and ESR demonstrated comparatively lower diagnostic performance, with AUC values of 0.640 and 0.644, respectively.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates that fecal calprotectin has superior diagnostic performance compared to conventional inflammatory markers in differentiating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). An optimal cutoff value of approximately 400 µg/g yielded the highest sensitivity and specificity. Therefore, fecal calprotectin may serve as a valuable tool in clinical practice for both screening and diagnostic confirmation.
3.Risk Factors and Clinical Characteristics of Pulmonary Embolism Among Mongolian Patients
Javzan-Orlom D ; ; Chuluunbileg B ; Gantogtokh D ; Enkhtuguldur M ; Munkh-Erdene D ; Zolzaya B ; Enkh-Amgalan Ts ; Altankhuyag N ; Amgalandari B ; Badamsed Ts ; Tumur-Ochir Ts ; Solongo B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;90(6):55-62
Background:
The annual incidence of pulmonary thromboembolism is reported to be 39–115 cases per 100,000 population,
with rates of 60–120/100,000 in Western countries and 10–20/100,000 in Asian countries. In Mongolia, few studies
revealed the prevalence of risk factors and clinical manifestations of acute pulmonary embolism. Over the past 30 years,
the incidence of risk factors for non-communicable diseases, which are mainly triggered by lifestyle and social parameters,
has rose. Moreover, environmental conditions such as cold climate, hypoxia, and blood hyperviscosit may contribute
to higher incidences of acute pulmonary embolism in high-altitude regions. This condition is potentially fatal and can
become impair quality of life.
Aim:
We aimed to compare risk factors and clinical characteristics based on age and sex, and to evaluate laboratory findings
and diagnostic tests among Mongolian patients diagnosed with acute pulmonary embolism.
Materials and Methods:
This retrospective research included total 232 patients meeting inclusion criteria. The information
was collected from patient histories, including general demographics, risk factors, comorbidities, symptoms, and
physical examination findings. Laboratory analyses included complete blood count, coagulation profile, and immunological
markers (D-dimer, NT-proBNP, troponin, protein C, homocysteine, and C-reactive protein), as well as selected
imaging parameters. We used Wells and Geneva scoring systems to assess probability of acute pulmonary embolism and
Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index to determine disease severity. Differences by age and sex were analyzed using independent
t-tests for continuous variables and chi-square tests for categorical variables.
Results:
Among participants with acute pulmonary embolism, the prevalence of tobacco and alcohol use was significantly
higher among males (p<0.001). Among comorbidities, arterial hypertension and other pulmonary diseases were more
common in males, whereas cardiac diseases were more frequent in females (p=0.028). Participants aged 65 years and
older showed higher rates of comorbid conditions and regular medication use (p<0.001). The most common symptoms
were dyspnea (90.9%), chest pain (74.2%), cough (70.5%), leg pain (38.9%), hemoptysis (20.7%), and cyanosis (9.3%).
According to sPESI scoring, 69.8% (n=162) were at high risk of death within 30 days, with no significant difference by
sex. However, mortality risk within 30 days was significantly higher in participants aged 65 years and above (p<0.001).
As increasing age, the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio were elevated, indicating an acute
inflammatory response (p=0.001). Contrast-enhanced CT scans revealed that 95 participants (44.2%) had main pulmonary
artery involvement, with no significant sex difference, though involvement of the main pulmonary artery was more
frequent in those aged 65 and older.
Conclusion
Dyspnea, chest pain, and cough were the most common symptoms among patients diagnosed with acute
pulmonary embolism. The 30-day mortality risk associated with it was higher among males and increased with advancing
age.
4.Comparative study of subcutaneous fat area and visceral fat area among healthy and metabolic syndrome patients
Munkh-Erdene U ; Odmaa T ; Solongo Ts ; Ganchimeg S ; Egshiglen G ; Anir B ; Ariunaa A ; Navchaa G ; Tulgaa S ; Munkhtsetseg J
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;86(2):36-41
Background:
Obesity, especially central obesity, is a risk factor for non-communicable chronic diseases such as dyslipidemia,
type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), cardiovascular diseases (CVD), and metabolic syndrome (MetS).
Aim:
Study the association between the subcutaneous fat area (SFA) and visceral fat area (VFA) with lipid metabolism
parameters in adults with MetS.
Materials and Methods:
Data from 1511 participants who visited the ‘NURA Mongolia’ Ai Health screening center
between September 2023 and February 2024, including general information, DEXA (Dual X-ray Absorptiometry), and
biochemical analysis results, were used. Metabolic syndrome (MeS) was assessed based on the harmonizing criteria 2009
(≥3 criteria). VFA and SFA were categorized into four groups using quartiles (Q1-Q4). Statistical analysis was performed
using SPSS v26, including T-tests, multiple logistic regression (OR, 95% CI), and ROC (AUC) analysis.
Results:
The average age of the participants was 30.5±3.9 years, with a BMI of 25.1 kg/m², and 49.5% were male. The
group with MetS (n=531) had significantly higher levels of VFA and SFA compared to the group that rated their health as
relatively healthy and had no clinical diagnosis (n=979) (control group) (p<0.0001), with males showing higher VFA and
females showing higher SFA (p<0.0001). The Q4 group for VFA had a significant association with MetS in males (4.611,
95% CI=2.394–9.591) and females (2.253, 95% CI=1.097-3.912) (p<0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that increased
VFA was more strongly associated with MetS in males (β=0.325, p<0.0001) and females (β=0.338, p<0.003) than
BMI. The AUC for predicting MetS was 0.790 (95% CI=0.750-0.831) for VFA and 0.401 (95% CI=0.351-0.451) for SFA,
with all results being statistically significant (p<0.001). VFA had a higher predictive value compared to other markers.
Conclusion
In healthy men with metabolic syndrome, VFA is more prominently defined, while SFA is higher in healthy
women. Since VFA is a better predictor of metabolic syndrome than SFA, it increases the risk of diseases such as cardiovascular
diseases and type 2 diabetes in men, whereas SFA in women serves as a protective factor.
5.Assessing quality of life among patients with pulmonary embolism
Javzan-Orlom D ; Munkh-Erdene D ; Zolzaya B ; Solongo B ; Chuluunbileg B ; Altankhuyag N ; Badamsed Ts ; Tumur-Ochir Ts
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;86(2):154-159
Background:
The assessment of patients’ quality of life has emerged as a critical metric in evaluating healthcare services.
Internationally, numerous studies have been conducted to assess the QoL of individuals diagnosed with pulmonary
embolism through the development of standardized questionnaires and their association with various clinical parameters.
Aim:
To adapt a standardized questionnaire for assessing the quality of life following a pulmonary embolism and to evaluate
the quality of life of affected patients.
Materials and Methods:
A total of 33 patients diagnosed with pulmonary embolism and hospitalized in the Department
of Pulmonology at the Third State Central Hospital in Mongolia between August 2022 and December 2023 were included
in the study. An observational cross-sectional study design was used. Inclusion criteria encompassed all patients diagnosed
with PE during the study period, while exclusion criteria included individuals with severe comorbidities, those aged
over 85 years, and those who declined participation. QoL was assessed using the Pulmonary Embolism Quality of Life
(PEmb-QoL) questionnaire, which consists of 39 questions categorized into six domains. Higher scores indicate poorer
QoL. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 16.
Results:
The average age of the participants was 61±15 years, and 18 (54.5%) were female. The median duration of anticoagulant
therapy was 170 days (range: 27–2555 days), and the average monthly expenditure on medication was 80,000
MNT (range: 63,000–400,000 MNT). The overall mean QoL score was 69.7±23.2. The median scores for the six domains
were as follows: frequency of complaints 1.6 (IQR 1.5-1.9; max 5 score), activities of daily living limitations 1.5 (1.3–1.8;
max 3 score), work-related problems 1.7 (1.5–2.0; max 2 score), social limitations 2.0 (2.0–3.0; max 5 score), intensity
of complaints 3.0 (3.0–4.0; max 6 score), emotional complaints 2.0 (1.5–2.4; max 6 score). The internal consistency reliability
of the questionnaire was assessed, with the symptom frequency category scoring well (α=0.74), while the other
categories had excellent reliability (α>0.85). A weak positive correlation was observed between overall QoL scores and
age, while a weak negative correlation was identified with body mass index (r=0.14 & r= -0.13, P>0.05).
Conclusion
The study findings indicate a low QoL among PE patients, emphasizing the necessity for enhancements in
post-diagnosis medical care and long-term management strategies to improve patient outcomes.
6.Cystatin C levels in left ventricular hypertrophy and chronic kidney disease secondary to arterial hypertension
Khongorzul Ts ; Otgonjargal Ch ; Munkh-Erdene U ; Odgerel Ch ; Oyun-Erdene R ; Nandin-Erdene M ; Buyankhuu T ; Munkhtsetseg J ; Tulgaa S
Diagnosis 2025;113(2):63-68
Background:
Identifying reliable biomarkers for early detection, risk stratification, and prognosis of CVD in the context of CKD is, therefore, of critical importance. Cystatin C has emerged as a potential biomarker capable of reflecting both cardiac injury and renal impairment, particularly in patients with arterial hypertension. This study aimed to evaluate the association between serum cystatin C levels, left ventricular hypertrophy, and chronic kidney disease in individuals with hypertension.
Objective:
To assess serum cystatin C concentrations in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy and chronic kidney disease secondary to arterial hypertension.
Materials and Methods:
A case-control analytical study was conducted, enrolling 44 patients aged 45 years or older with both left ventricular hypertrophy and chronic kidney disease due to arterial hypertension alongside a control group of apparently healthy individuals. Serum cystatin C levels were measured using immunoturbidimetric assay. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0. Group comparisons were made using independent-sample t-tests, while multivariate regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses were employed to explore associations and the predictive value of cystatin C.
Results:
The mean serum cystatin C concentration in the case group was 1.6±0.1 mg/L, significantly higher than in the control group (0.88±0.03 mg/L, p<0.05). Similarly, the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was markedly reduced in the case group (44.88±6.8 mL/min/1.73 m²) compared to the controls (92.88±3.4 mL/ min/1.73 m², p<0.05). In the case group, a statistically significant inverse correlation was observed between serum cystatin C levels and glomerular filtration rate (GFR), with a regression coefficient of β=−0.028 (p<0.006).
Conclusion
The elevated serum cystatin C levels (1.6±0.1 mg/L) and decreased eGFR (38.99±12.7 mL/min/1.73 m²) observed in the case group suggest that cystatin C may serve as a potential biomarker for the early diagnosis of left ventricular hypertrophy due to arterial hypertension and chronic kidney disease, as well as for predicting related complications.
7.Result to assess management capability of maternity hospitals
Batbold Ts ; Tumurbaatar L ; Munkh-Erdene L
Innovation 2020;14(1):44-48
Background:
Healthcare organizations are successfully implementing quality management
system by forming legal entity, administration’s structure, arrangement and developing healthcare
organization’s structure, arrangement, functional standard, clinical guideline, rule and employee’s
moral principles. Implementation of accreditation system into healthcare organizations is proof
of accepted standard application. However, the results of healthcare paradigm shift outcome
is insufficient. Also researchers, citizens and policy makers commented that quality and access
of healthcare service began to worsen compared with previous degree of development.
Management capability index presents management assessment by score, assesses outcome of
organizational functions and give chance to measure capability of management.
Methods:
This study was performed at the Amgalan Maternity Hospital, Urguu Maternity Hospital
and Khuree Maternity Hospital. The study involved 480 employees of above-mentioned hospitals.
The study used 9 chapter and 90 criteria that was used in over 30 Mongolian Governmental
Organizations for capability assessment to determine management capability index of Maternity
Hospitals, using Cross-Sectional study method. In the study, a questionnaire with 90 questions
including organization management capability 9 chapters which are organizational goal and task,
leadership skill in organization, worthwhile structure and arrangement, organization’s motivation
and leverage, organization’s relationship and collaboration, organizational culture, resource
utilization, knowledge and innovation, organizational productivity, quality and performance was
used. Organizations capability index was estimated by assessment of each questions in scores 1
to 5.
Results:
Total 480 employees consisting of 220 employees working at Urguu Maternity Hospital,
125 employees of Khuree Maternity Hospital and 135 employees of Amgalan Maternity Hospital
filled the questionnaire. 46 administration officials, 75 doctors, 208 nurses and obstetricians,
105 caregivers and service assistants and 46 economic employees involved it. Organizational
management capability was 71.8, 73.6 and 93 respectively Urguu Maternity Hospital, Khuree
Maternity Hospital and Amgalan Maternity Hospital. It is obvious that there has necessity to
improve organizational knowledge, innovation, resource utilization, behavior, culture and activate
their organization. In result of studying doctors, nurses, obstetricians and other employee’s work
task management, there has relatively little difference of management capability index with
0-3.9% between Urguu Maternity Hospital and Khuree Maternity Hospital while management
capability index of Amgalan Maternity Hospital had difference with 14.7-20.1%. In the work task
questionnaire analysis, no difference was noted but administrative officials and service assistants
gave high assessment for organizational management. Regression analysis was used to assess the
relationship between management capability assessment of doctors, nurses, obstetricians and
other employee of Maternity Hospitals and the result was p<0.001 and r=0.89. It represented the
presence of strong association between those.
Conclusions
Management capabilities of Urguu and Khuree Maternity Hospitals which don’t
implement the quality management system have difference from Amgalan Maternity Hospital’s
management capability. All participants of Amgalan Maternity Hospital implementing quality
management system gave same assessment for their organizational management capability
index regarding of differences of work tasks.
8.Study of staff employee’s satisfaction
Batbold Ts ; Tumurbaatar L ; Munkh-Erdene L ; Erkhembaatar T
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2020;193(3):22-27
Introduction:
Studies in many countries have found that the satisfaction of medical workers is closely linked to the
quality and efficiency of medical services, as well as the satisfaction of patients. Satisfied employees
will bring about satisfied clients. The satisfaction of employees remains a key factor linking the
internal management and external management of an organisation. The World Health Organization
(WHO) Global strategy on human resources on health workforce 2030 sets out the policy agenda to
ensure a workforce that is ft for purpose to attain the targets of the Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs). Motivation of health care workers can initiate them to exert and maintain an efort towards
organizational goals. Motivation depends up on many factors, and job satisfaction is one of the most
important factors. Healthcare is a service industry where the overall service experience is important
for customer satisfaction and quality of care (even if in different extents according to the professional
at stake) and that the literature has been bringing about the pertinence of such a holistic approach,
this research was conducted within this perspective. Likewise, it is also known that there is close
correlation between the job satisfaction of health care staff and the total quality of health services.
Different groups have reported differences between the job satisfaction of doctors and that of other
health providers. Various satisfaction levels of health care workers, including general practitioners,
nurses and midwives, have been reported previously.
Materials and Methods:
This study was performed at the Amgalan Maternity Hospital, Urguu Maternity Hospital and Khuree
Maternity Hospital The study involved 480 employees of above mentioned hospitals. The short
form of the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire, with 20 items, was used to examine satisfaction
with professional life. The self-administered questionnaire was distributed to all people at their
workplaces. Responses of 4 (satisfied) or 5 (very satisfied) were classified as ‘satisfied’, those of 1
(very dissatisfied) or 2 (dissatisfied) as ‘dissatisfied’.
Results:
The study recruited total 480 employees consisting of 220 employees working at Urguu Maternity
Hospital, 125 employees of Khuree Maternity Hospital and 135 employees of Amgalan Maternity
Hospital. 46 administration officials, 75 doctors, 208 nurses and obstetricians, 105 caregivers and
service assistants and 46 economic employees involved it. In table, 87.1% of total employees of
maternity hospitals were female and 12.9% were male. While there had significantly difference for
gender, occupation type and worked year in this sector and workplace between 3 maternity hospitals
(p<.001), age and education level had no significantly difference between these 3 groups. The
proportion of health care staff satisfied with their work was 80.7%. The chance to tell people what
to do’ and ‘Being able to do things that do not go against my conscience’, and mostly dissatisfied
with ‘The working conditions’ and ‘My pay and the amount of work I do’. There was no significant
difference between satisfaction scores of health care staff according to age, gender, marital status, and
experience of profession. When the 20 items constituting job satisfaction were examined specifically,
the satisfaction score showed a difference related to profession. The midwives’ satisfaction score
was significantly lower than that of the others. In table 4, to assess employee’s satisfaction of each
maternal hospital: While the minimum satisfaction was assessed by employees of Urguu maternity
hospital whether salary is equal for work performance, the maximum satisfaction was assessed by
employees of Amgalan maternity hospital under scope of consistent workplace at 93.9 percent.
Conclusion
Maternity satisfy external and internal factors of employees are influenced. Maternity is
different, depending on the satisfaction of other working areas of employment.
9.Postpartum readmission rate
Odonzul Ts ; Batbold Ts ; Ariuntsetseg J ; Sergelen P ; Hangal Sh ; Ganbold S ; Munkh-Erdene L ; Erkembaatar T
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2020;193(3):28-34
Background:
Postpartum readmission rate has been increasing after both caesarean and vaginal delivery.
Postpartum diseases, in some cases with infection and anemia, result in hospital readmission. Also
it raises the issue associated with maternal hospital’s healthcare quality. There has lack of study
focusing on postpartum readmission. So we will study postpartum readmission rate.
Material and Methods:
112 patients who readmitted in Amgalan maternity hospital in Ulaanbaatar were involved in this study.
We used patient’s medical history to determine risk factors resulted in hospital readmission after
caesarean and vaginal therapy.
Results:
The mean age of women delivered by cesarean was 30.2±7.32 and vaginal delivery’s was 28.3±7.21.
34.8 percent of women who readmitted after vaginal delivery had 1-3 readmission days and 56.5
percent was 4-6 days and 8.7 percent was 7-10 days. Readmission day for women delivered
by caesarean was 1-3 days in 21.2 percent of these, 4-6 days in 56.1 percent and 7-10 days in
19.7 percent. The mean readmission day of women delivered by vaginal delivery was 4.73±1.61
(mean±SD) and the mean of women delivered by caesarean delivery was 5.54±2.34 (mean±SD). In
each category, there had 24.2-28.3 percent cases with lochia. Women who had caesarian delivery
were infected their scar with 24(36.3) cases. Renal urinary system infection had in 12(26.0) women
delivered by vaginal delivery.
Conclusion
58.9 percent of total readmissions cases were caesarean and 41.1 percent was vaginal delivery.
Lochia and renal urinary infection had influence in readmission after vaginal delivery. Also both lochia
and infected wound impacted on postpartum readmission after caesarian delivery.
Result Analysis
Print
Save
E-mail