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.

Background: The development of accurate and non-invasive diagnostic tools is essential for improving early detection of cancers. Recent studies have shown that serum biomarkers may be useful for early detection of gastric cancer. Aim: We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of PGI and PGR biomarkers for detection of the gastric cancer and atrophic gastritis. Materials and Methods: To identify relevant studies, the MEDLINE (PubMed) database was searched using the keywords (((“Gastritis, Atrophic”[Mesh]) OR “Stomach Neoplasms”[Mesh]) AND “Pepsinogen A”[Mesh]) AND “Sensitivity and Specificity”[Mesh]). Based on the inclusion and exclusion criterias, studies were selected according to the PRISMA guidelines. Meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4.1 and STATA/IC 15.0 (StataCorp LLC, USA, 2017). Results: According to the PRISMA guidelines, we selected a total of 18 studies in this meta-analysis. The meta-analysis results showed that the sensitivity of the PGI for the detection of atrophic gastritis was 58.5% (95% CI, 44.5-71.3), specificity was 90.2% (95% CI, 68.4-97.5), and DOR was 13.0 (95% CI, 2.6-64.6); the sensitivity of the PGR was 69.9% (95% CI, 58.1-79.5), specificity was 80.9% (95% CI, 52.4-94.2), and DOR was 9.8 (95% CI, 2.6-36.9). However, the sensitivity of the PGI biomarkers for detecting gastric cancer was 72.6% (95% CI, 54.7-85.3), specificity was 66.9% (95% CI, 52.5-78.7), DOR was 5.4 (95% CI, 3.1-9.3); PGR sensitivity was 77.8% (95% CI, 64.4-87.4), specificity was 65.0% (95% CI, 53.2-75.1), DOR was 6.6 (95% CI, 3.7-11.7); PGI+PGR sensitivity was 62.3% (95% CI, 51.1-72.2), specificity was 87.6% (95% CI, 78.0-93.3), DOR was 11.6 (95% CI, 6.8-19.8). Conclusion PGI and PGR tests demonstrated high specificity but moderate sensitivity. Although serum pepsinogen cannot replace endoscopy, it is considered to be an additional test and can be used to select high-risk populations.

Background: In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that globally, 2.5 billion (43%) of adults aged 18 and older were overweight, with 890 million (16%) of these individuals classified as living with obesity. Some genes such as the FTO gene are strongly associated with obesity and overweigh. The FTO protein is crucial in regulating food consumption, appetite, energy equilibrium, and expenditure. Aim: The identify single nucleotide polymorphisms rs9939609 and rs17817449 of the FTO gene, which are associated with obesity, and to study their correlation with antropometric measurements and some laboratory test parameters. Materials and Methods: According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 50 obese (BMI >30 kg/m²) were included in the case group, and 50 relatively healthy and normal weight (BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m²) were enrolled in the control group, for a total of 100 people matched for age and gender (1:1). We took physical measurements and collected peripheral blood samples after obtaining informed consent from each participant. Laboratory analyses assessed some parameters of lipid and glucose metabolism. We used the PCR-RFLP technique on two genotype SNPs. A p-value below 0.05 was considered a statistically significant result. Results: In this study, including 100 people aged 23 to 75, the mean age was 46.81±11.54 years, with 60% being female. In terms of antropometric measurements, body mass index, waist circumference, and arterial pressure were markedly elevated in the case group compared to the control group (p<0.001). In laboratory measures, fasting blood glucose, cholesterol, and mean LDL mean levels were statistically significantly higher in the case group compared to the control group. On the other hand, HDL cholesterol levels were lower in the case group compared to the control group. The FTO gene rs9939609 single nucleotide polymorphism was identified in 62% of the total study individuals as TT, 35% as AT, and 3% as AA genotypes. Also, FTO gene rs17817449 single nucleotide polymorphism was identified in 62% of the total study individuals as TT, 33% as AT, and 5% as AA genotypes. Conclusion The rs9939609 AT/AA genotype of the FTO gene elevates the risk of obesity and is associated with increased body weight, waist circumference, and BMI.

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.

Background: Milk and dairy products are important sources of protein, vitamins (B2, B12), and minerals (calcium, zinc), playing a key role in maintaining normal body weight, bone structure, and overall health. However, in Mongolia, regular milk consumption among school-aged children is inadequate, and scientific evidence on its association with growth, micronutrient status, and bone health is limited. Objective : To determine the relationship between weekly milk consumption and children’s physical growth, bone softening, and serum levels of vitamin D and selected minerals. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in December 2024 among 453 students aged 7–12 years from six general education schools in Ulaanbaatar. Participants were classified into three groups based on weekly milk consumption: (1) non-consumers, (2) consumers at school or home, and (3) consumers at both school and home. Anthropometric measurements were obtained, and BMI z-scores were calculated using WHO growth reference standards. Blood samples were analyzed for vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, and zinc, and bone mineral density was measured. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26, applying independent t-tests, chi-square tests, and ANOVA, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Children consuming milk regularly at both school and home had higher mean height (139 ± 8 cm) compared to non-consumers (136 ± 17 cm), though differences were not statistically significant (p=0.33). BMI was more often in the normal range among dual-site consumers (56.4%) compared to non-consumers (43.4%) (p<0.05). Vitamin D deficiency was less prevalent among dual-site consumers (47%) than in other groups (p<0.05). Magnesium (0.86±0.07 mmol/L) and zinc (18.74±2.48 μmol/L) levels were significantly higher in this group (p<0.05). Bone softening prevalence was lower among dual-site consumers (47.8%) compared to non-consumers (58.3%) (p=0.026). No significant associations were found between milk consumption and red blood cell indices. Conclusion Regular milk consumption is associated with improved BMI status, higher serum magnesium and zinc levels, and lower prevalence of bone softening among school-aged children in Ulaanbaatar. These findings support the potential role of school milk programs in enhancing child nutrition and bone health in Mongolia.

Introduction: Since 1993, the Inula helenium L. plant has been planted in the production area (Bulgan Province, Dashinchilen Sum) of the Traditional Hatchery Science and Production Corporation’s medicinal plant introduction and cultivation experience. At the Drug Research Institute, there is also a botanical institute for medicinal plants where it is grown. In traditional Mongolian medicine, the roots and rhizomes of Inula helenium L. are used to reduce inflammation, boost immunity, enhance hunger, and improve intestinal motility. Inula helenium L. roots and rhizomes contain biologically active compounds such as monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, phenols, flavonoids, and polysaccharides. Methods: The roots and rhizomes of Inula helenium L. were extracted with water and 70% ethanol at the following ratios 1:10 (2% of WAC), 1:8, and 1:6 by partial maceration at 700C for 2 hours each, extracted and concentrated. The dry extract was obtained by the spray drying procedure. High-performance liquid chromatography for determining the content of alantolactone, thin-layer chromatography for qualitative analysis. Spectrophotometer for determining the content of polyphenolic compounds, colored compounds with Folin-Ciocalteu reagent for qualitative analysis. Spectrophotometer for determining the content of inulin, and colored compounds with phenol and sulfuric acid solutions for qualitative analysis. Conclusion In determining the content of polyphenolic compounds, inulin, and alantolactone in the dry extract taken from the roots and rhizomes of cultivated Inula helenium L., the content of polyphenolic compound in dry extract A was 2.50±0.08%, and alantolactone was 1.39±0.11% in the raw material of the plant, while B dry the extract had a high concentration of inulin of 58.51±0.66%.

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.

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.

Introduction: The prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has increased significantly over the last three decades worldwide, from 17.6% in 1990 to 23.4% in 2019. The development of this disease depends on many risk factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environment. The PNPLA3 (patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing protein 3) gene is the most relevant genetic factor influencing the risk of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. The PNPLA3 rs738409 GG genotype impairs adiponutrin function, accumulating triglyceride in liver cells and forming small fat droplets within the liver. Aim: To determine rs738409 and rs2896019 single nucleotide polymorphisms of the PNPLA3 gene in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and their correlation with 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 without MASLD, and 100 in the case group with MASLD. The PNPLA3 (rs738409, rs2896019) gene’s single nucleotide polymorphism was identified by the RFLP-PCR technique. 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 test, Fisher’s exact test, student t-test, and Mann–Whitney test. 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). Among all patients, the PNPLA3 gene’s single nucleotide polymorphism rs738409 revealed 44.7% (67) CC, 54.7% (82) GC, and 0.7% (1) GG (OR-CG+GG genotype- 2.9, p=0.003). In addition, as a result of determining the PNPLA3 gene rs2896019 single nucleotide polymorphism, the frequency of the TT genotype was significantly higher in the control group than in the case group (48%, 31%, p = 0.042). Conclusion The frequency of CG/GG genotypes rs738409, and rs2896019 of the PNPLA3 gene is higher in the case group, suggesting that they may be more susceptible to MASLD.

Background: Specifically, stomach cancer ranks as the fifth leading cause of cancer morbidity and mortality worldwide. Early-stage detection significantly improves survival rates, with over 90% of patients diagnosed at stages I and II living beyond five years. To improve the early detection of gastric cancer, it is necessary to complement the conventional method of endoscopic examination with biomarker analysis. We aimed to compare biomarkers such as pepsinogen C (PGC), matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2), matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9), and the cell proliferation marker Ki-67 with immunohistochemical analysis. Purpose: A comparative study and evaluation of biomarkers for the early detection of gastric cancer. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted using a retrospective cohort design. Research ethics issues were discussed at the meeting of the Medical Ethics Control Committee of the Ministry of Health on October 13, 2023, and permission to start the research was obtained (Resolution No. 23/051). The information was gathered based on the criteria for K29.3, K29.4, K31, and C1 diagnoses according to the international ICD 10 classification, and participants were selected accordingly. Proteins such as PGC, MMP2, MMP9, and Ki-67 were examined using a tissue microarray kit and evaluated through immunohistochemical analysis. Results: Negative gastric tumor markers PGC, Ki-67, MMP2 and MMP9 were evaluated by immunohistochemical analysis. The mean PGC protein staining values were 6.20±2.61 for chronic superficial gastritis, 5.45±2.47 for atrophic gastritis, 3.61±2.0 for metaplasia, and 3.31±1.75 for gastric cancer, with statistically significant differences between the groups (P<0.001). The mean Ki-67 protein staining values were 0.1 ± 0.4 for chronic superficial gastritis, 0.33 ± 0.55 for atrophic gastritis, 0.09 ± 0.39 for metaplasia, and 2.62 ± 0.78 for gastric cancer, also showing statistically significant differences (P<0.001). The mean MMP2 and MMP9 protein staining values were 0.2±0.76 and 1.2±2.04, respectively, for chronic superficial gastritis; 0.28±0.52 and 3.28±2.82 for atrophic gastritis; 0.35±1.04 and 1.12±1.45 for metaplasia; and 1.38±2.11 and 5.29±2.51 for gastric cancer, with all differences being statistically significant (P<0.001). Conclusion PGC protein, a negative tumor marker, decreases during the transition from a gastric cancer precursor to cancer. MMP2 protein, a marker of cell migration and metastasis, has little diagnostic value, while the expression of MMP9 and the Ki 67 are highly effective in gastric cancer. Immunohistochemical analysis of endoscopic biopsy tissue to detect the negative tumor marker PGC, the positive marker Ki-67, and MMP9 can be used for early detection of gastric cancer.