1.Efficacy of Therapeutic Massage in the Management of Pediatric Functional Constipation
Tungalagtuya Kh ; ; Suvd S ; Altantulga B ; Munkhzul B ; Uranchimeg O ; Oyuntsetseg N ; Zandi N ; Bolortulga Z
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;91(1):176-181
Background:
Functional constipation is a common condition in early childhood, with an estimated global prevalence of approximately 3%. In Mongolia, functional constipation has been increasingly diagnosed among young children, particularly those aged 2–6 years. The condition is associated with abdominal pain, bloating, painful defecation, stool retention behaviors, and long-term physical and psychological complications. Although pediatric Tuina massage is widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a non-pharmacological intervention, evidence regarding its effectiveness remains limited in the local context.
Aim:
To evaluate the effectiveness of therapeutic massage on stool frequency and stool consistency in children with functional constipation.
Materials and Methods:
A randomized controlled study was conducted between May and December 2025 at the “Bomborduk” Pediatric Traditional Medicine Center. Sixty children diagnosed with functional constipation (ICD-10 K59.04) were randomly assigned to a therapeutic massage group (n=30) or an exercise therapy group (n=30). Outcomes were assessed at baseline and after one month using the Constipation Assessment Scale (CAS) and the Bristol Stool Form Scale.
Result:
The mean age of participants was 3.75±0.94 years, with no significant difference between groups. In the massage therapy group, CAS scores decreased from 8.23±2.39 to 3.17±2.36, while Bristol Stool scores improved from 1.33±0.48 to 3.00±0.87. Improvements were significantly greater in the massage group compared with the exercise therapy group (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
Therapeutic massage is a safe and effective non-pharmacological intervention that significantly improves stool consistency and reduces constipation severity in children with functional constipation.
2.A survey on citizens’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding pharmaceutical waste disposal
Myagmardulam Enkhbat ; Khongorzul Dovchinsuren ; Rentsen Badamjav ; Oyuntsetseg Gungeedondov ; Tsolmon Batchuluun
Mongolian Pharmacy and Pharmacology 2026;29(2):28-34
Introduction:
Improper disposal of unused and expired medicines poses severe threats to
environmental safety and public health, notably accelerating antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Globally,
pharmaceutical consumption rose by 14% between 2019 and 2023. Despite this surge, Mongolia
continuously lacks an established national pharmaceutical take-back framework, and public behaviors
regarding residential medical waste management remain insufficiently evaluated. This study aimed
to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of adult residents in Ulaanbaatar concerning
medication disposal.
Methods:
A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted between January and March 2026
among 301 adult citizens across nine districts of Ulaanbaatar. Data were collected via a structured
questionnaire evaluating demographic parameters, knowledge (10 items), attitudes (10 items), and
practices (8 items). Statistical analysis was executed using IBM SPSS v26.0, applying descriptive
frequencies, percentages, and one-way ANOVA.
Conclusion
The findings reveal a prominent knowledge-behavior gap among citizens. While the
mean knowledge score was moderate (62.4%), with 92.2% recognizing the dangers of expired drugs,
practical behaviors were profoundly unsafe. Specifically, 86.4% of participants discarded medication
alongside ordinary household waste, 94.0% had never returned products to pharmacies, and 0% had
utilized a designated medical disposal point. Conversely, an overwhelmingly positive public attitude
was observed, as 88.4% expressed willingness to return unused medicines if a formal pharmacy-based collection system existed. This critical disparity underscores that public awareness campaigns
alone are inadequate. There is an urgent necessity to integrate pharmacy-led take-back programs
into national environmental and health policies, establish accessible urban disposal infrastructure,
and enforce rigorous pharmaceutical waste standards in Mongolia.
3.The oral health survey of Mongolian people
Bayarmaa B ; Namuun B ; Suvdanchimeg A ; Tselmeg B ; Munkh-Od Sh ; Oyuntsetseg B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;91(1):90-96
Background:
Dental caries is a worldwide spreader infectious decease. According to the present studies, the prevalence of the disease is highly dependent on the developmental of the country and its prevention strategies. By the World Dental Federation and World Health Organization (WHO) criteria, dental caries prevalence is increasing every year in Mongolia, which is becoming one of the main problems in our country. According to studies, the most effective method of decreasing prevalence of caries is to have an oral health knowledge, provide caries treatment on early-stage and focusing more on prevention.
Aim:
The aim of our study was to determine the oral health status among the groups aged between 5, 12, 35-44, 65-74.
Materials and Methods:
The study has consisted 3512 subjects who selected from 4 age groups (5, 12, 35-44, 65-74) and from 6 districts of Ulaanbaatar city and 5 provinces of Mongolia. The oral examination of each person was done by calibrated dentists according to recommendation of WHO, 2013. The statistical analysis was processed using statistical software system (Stata version 16.0).
Result:
The prevalence of dental caries and mean of Decayed, Missed, Filled, permanent teeth (DMFt), decayed filled primary teeth were 87.6%, 6.2±0.14 among 5 years old, 77.0%, 2.2±0.03 among 12 years old, 98.1%, 11.8±0.19 among 35-44 years old, 99.8%, 23.6±0.27 among 65-74 years old. The good oral hygiene index was 51.5%, 46.3%, 49.0% and 65.7%. The prevalence of gingivitis was 2.3%, 9.8%, 34.5%, 17.6% and of calculus 0.8%, 7.6%, 62.8%, 31.6%, respectively above groups. The percent of people with removable dentures among 65-74 years old was higher than among 35-44 years old.
Conclusion
Across multiple age groups, the prevalence and severity of dental caries remain high. Oral hygiene status is predominantly classified as fair to poor. Among adults, partial or complete tooth loss is common; however, the utilization of dental prostheses is low, indicating inadequate prosthetic rehabilitation and limited adaptation to tooth replacement.
4.Some digestive system disorders affecting factors
Chantsaldulam G ; Baasandorj Yu ; Baasanjargal N ; Zandarmaa Kh ; Oyuntsetseg D
Diagnosis 2025;113(2):40-44
Introduction:
According to epidemiological studies conducted in Mongolia over the past decade, diseases of the digestive system have consistently ranked second in terms of morbidity and fourth in mortality. With the rapid advancement of technology, sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy living habits have become more prevalent among the population, leading to a trend of digestive disorders affecting younger age groups. Therefore, investigating the prevalence, pathological changes, and risk factors associated with gallbladder and pancreatic diseases among university students has become the rationale for this study.
Objective:
To study the prevalence of gallbladder and pancreatic disorders and determine some of the associated risk factors.
Methodology:
200 students from the first to sixth year were selected through random sampling based on the WHO age classification. Data collection included a structured questionnaire and ultrasound examination using the SUN-800D device. Diagnostic criteria followed the national clinical guidelines for acute cholecystitis.
Results:
Out of 200 participants, 120 (60%) were female and 80 (40%) were male. Among them, 128 students (64%) reported skipping breakfast regularly, and 147 (73.5%) did not consume an adequate amount of fluids daily. Ultrasound examinations revealed that 104 students (52%) had some form of gallbladder or pancreatic abnormality. Additionally, gallstones were detected in 1 student (0.5%), and gallbladder polyps were found in 5 students (2.5%).
Conclusion
Gallbladder and pancreatic abnormalities were observed in 52% of the participants. Among the associated risk factors, 64% of students reported skipping breakfast, and 73.5% had inadequate daily fluid intake. The ultrasound findings showed that 47% had biliary sludge, 32% had gallbladder kinking, and 48.5% had increased pancreatic echogenicity.
5.А Study on the relationship between arterial hypertension, dyslipidemia levels, and body constitution characteristics
Wang Xiao Rong ; ; Narantuya B ; Bolortulga Z ; Zandi N ; Oyuntsetseg N
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;90(6):12-17
Background:
In recent years, stroke has remained one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide.
Globally, the incidence among adults ranges from 134.9 to 336.3 cases per 100,000 population annually, with mortality
rates between 36.7 and 136.7 per 100,000. In Mongolian traditional medicine, stroke prevention is not only related to diet
and lifestyle but also depends on an individual’s unique bodily constitution, age, strength, and life habits. Since people
differ physiologically, the diseases arising from the four causative conditions manifest differently. Therefore, this study
was conducted to explore the relationship between an individual’s constitutional type and stroke risk factors, aiming to
contribute to stroke prevention.
Aim:
To study the relationship between individual constitutional types in Mongolian traditional medicine and stroke risk
factors, specifically hypertension and dyslipidemia.
Materials and Methods:
A total of 2,086 participants were included from the Departments of Cardiology, Neurology,
and Ultrasonography of the affiliated hospital of the Inner Mongolia National University. Data were collected through
questionnaires, assessment of constitutional type, blood pressure measurement, and blood lipid analysis. Statistical processing
was performed using SPSS 18.0 software. Chi-square (χ²), ANOVA tests, multivariate logistic regression, and
correspondence analysis were used, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results:
Among the participants, those with the “Khurmal” (Hormal) and “Badgan-Khi” (Phlegm-Wind) constitutions
accounted for the highest proportions (34.3% and 26.7%, respectively), showing a statistically significant association with
stroke risk factors (p<0.05). In terms of the relationship between constitution and blood pressure, individuals with the
Badgan-Khi type had a higher risk, and a statistically significant association was found between blood pressure, risk classification,
and the Badgan-Khi and Khormal types (p<0.05). Regarding constitution and blood lipid levels, the proportions
in the stroke population were: indeterminate lipid ratio (58.3%), dyslipidemia (33.3%), and normal blood lipids (8.3%).
A statistically significant relationship was observed between blood lipid levels, risk classification, and the Khi-Shar and
Badgan-Khi constitutions (p<0.05).
Conclusion
Stroke risk factors such as hypertension and dyslipidemia are associated with an individual’s body constitutional
type. The study confirmed that individuals with a Khi-dominant constitution tend to have higher sympathetic
nervous system activity, blood pressure, and vascular reactivity, providing a biological basis for increased stroke risk. For
Badgan-dominant individuals, metabolic disturbances and lipid accumulation were identified as contributors to elevated
stroke risk.
6.The results of treatment of neck pain with the massage therapy of Mongolian medicine
Zhang Weimin ; ; Oyuntsetseg N ; Bolortulga Z ; Baigalmaa J ; Zandi N
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;90(6):49-54
Background:
The prevalence of neck pain among adults worldwide is 4.9-22.3%. It occurs in 34.7% of office workers
in industrialized countries.
Aim:
To study the effect of massage therapy of Mongolian medicine on neck pain
Materials and Methods:
In this study, a parallel clinical trial design was used, and 50 patients with neck pain were divided
into two groups: the treatment group received massage therapy of Mongolian medicine and the control group received
exercise therapy, and the treatment results were compared. VAS assessment, NDI, Digital Algometer, and European
Quality of Life Questionnaire were used in the study.
Results:
52 % of the study participants were male, while 48 % were female, and their mean age was 43.3±21.3.
The VAS score for pain assessment was 5.44±0.96 in the treatment group and 5.44±0.96 in the comparison group before
treatment, but after the treatment it decreased to 0.80±0.71 in the treatment group and 1.44±0.77 in the comparison group,
respectively, which showed a statistically significant difference. Massage therapy of Mongolian medicine has a greater
pain-relieving effect than exercise therapy in the treatment of neck pain (p<0.01).
The pressure pain threshold was 934±154.60 in the treatment group and 934±154.60 in the comparison group before
treatment, but after treatment, it increased to 1536±22.91 in the treatment group and 1392±83.77 in the comparison
group, which was statistically significant (p<0.01).
The neck disability index of patients with neck pain was 11.44±2.87 in the treatment group and 11.56±2.55 in the
comparison group before treatment, but after treatment it decreased to 0.84±0.69 in the treatment group and 1.40±0.87 in
the comparison group. Although exercise therapy has the effect of reducing the neck disability index, when comparing the
treatment results of the two groups, massage therapy of Mongolian medicine had greater effect (p<0.05).
European Quality of Life Questionnaire was 8.64±2.25 in the treatment group and 8.16±1.60 in the comparison group
before treatment, but after treatment it was 5.28±0.54 in the treatment group and 7.44±1.23 in the comparison group.
Massage therapy of Mongolian medicine has a greater effect on improving the quality of life of people with neck pain
compared to exercise therapy (p<0.01).
The neck forward bending was 36.60±2.45 in the treatment group and 37.24±2.35 in the comparison group before
treatment, but after treatment, it increased to 42.32±2.14 in the treatment group and 39.32±2.14 in the comparison group,
which was statistically significant (p0.01).The neck abduction was 36.20±1.89 in the treatment group and 36.56±2.24
in the comparison group before treatment, but after treatment, it increased to 42.80±2.06 in the treatment group and
39.76±1.88 in the comparison group, which was statistically significant (p=0.01).The neck left rotation was 60.84±3.77
in the treatment group and 61.56±4.31 in the comparison group before treatment, but after treatment, it increased to
75.08±3.55 in the treatment group and 67.20±4.29 in the comparison group, which was statistically significant (p0.01).
The neck right rotation was 61.80±4.39 in the treatment group and 62.00±4.42 in the comparison group before treatment,
but after treatment, it increased to 76.52±2.95 in the treatment group and 68.04±4.46 in the comparison group, which
was statistically significant (p0.01).When comparing the treatment results of the two groups, Mongolian medical bariatric
surgery was more effective (p<0.01).
Conclusions
1. Massage therapy of Mongolian medicine reduces disability index in people with neck pain (p<0.05).
2. Massage therapy of Mongolian medicine has a significant effect on reducing pain and pressure pain threshold in
people with neck pain (p<0.01).
3. Massage therapy of Mongolian medicine has the effect of improving the quality of life of people with neck pain
(p<0.01).
7.Comparative study on the quality of diclofenac sodium retard 100 mg tablets
Otgonchimeg Tumurbaatar ; Oyuntsetseg Gungeedondov ; Altantuya Tsegmid ; Rentsen Badamjav
Mongolian Pharmacy and Pharmacology 2025;26(1):5-10
Introduction:
Recently, there has been a significant focus on developing extended-release tablets that regulate
drug release at a predetermined rate to maintain optimal therapeutic plasma concentrations. Extended-release formulations offer several clinical advantages, including reducing the frequency of drug administration, minimizing fluctuations in plasma drug concentrations, decreasing adverse effects, and improving therapeutic outcomes.
According to Mongolia’s national pharmaceutical policy, it is essential to conduct quality assurance and safety monitoring studies on imported substitute products included in the national essential medicines list. The policy also mandates the quality control of pharmaceuticals in internationally accredited laboratories compliant with MNS ISO/ IEC 17025:2018 standards.
Methods:
The quality control parameters of Diclofenac Sodium Retard 100 mg tablets from three different
manufacturers were evaluated by the methodologies outlined in the United States Pharmacopeia USP32 and USP44.
The study assessed physical appearance, average weight, weight variation, friability, dissolution, and quantitative
drug content determination.
Results:
The average weight and weight variation of Diclofenac Sodium Retard 100 mg tablets from three different
manufacturers were as follows: Tablet A: (+3.60%, -2.84%), Tablet B: (+1.53%,-1.86%), Tablet C: (+2.53%,-1.96%). The friability and mechanical strength tests determined that all three tablets exhibited 99.9% friability resistance. The quantitative determination of Diclofenac Sodium content per tablet was: Tablet A: 0.098 g, Tablet B: 0.105 g, Tablet C: 0.104 g. Microbiological purity analysis showed that in all three tablets (A, B, and C), The total aerobic bacterial count was <101 CFU. The total mold and yeast count was <101 CFU and Escherichia coli was not detected. Dissolution test results showed the following percentage of drug released at different time points: Tablet A: 60 min: 16.1%, 120 min: 24.7%, 240 min: 39.6%, 360 min: 52.3%, 600 min: 73.6%. Tablet B: 60 min: 18.4%, 120 min: 26.1%, 240 min: 39.1%, 360 min: 55.8%, 600 min: 75.2%. Tablet C: 60 min: 18.6%, 120 min: 31.4%, 240 min: 52.9%, 360 min: 65.9%, 600 min: 77.0%. These results demonstrate that all tested tablets met the dissolution requirements of USP 44, 2021.
Conclusion
The findings indicate that the three manufacturers’ Diclofenac Sodium Retard 100 mg tablets
comply with the quality standards set by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP 32 and USP 44) and Mongolian
Pharmacopoeia 2011.
8.Results of combined treatment of herpes zoster with bloodletting pricking therapy and acupuncture
Su Bu De ; Lagshmaa B ; Bolortulga Z ; Zandi N ; Oyuntsetseg N
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;88(4):160-164
Background:
Herpes zoster (shingles) is an acute inflammatory skin disease caused by the reactivation of the Varicel
la-zoster virus. International studies show that the disease severely reduces patients’ quality of life, and chronic pain negatively affects daily activities. In clinical practice, bloodletting pricking therapy has been effectively used for herpes
zoster, with positive effects including reducing disease symptoms, alleviating skin inflammation, and promoting skin
regeneration. Due to the limited research on treating herpes zoster with combined bloodletting pricking therapy and acupuncture, this clinical study was conducted.
Aim:
To evaluate the effectiveness of combining bloodletting pricking therapy with acupuncture in patients diagnosed
with herpes zoster.
Materials and Methods:
The study was conducted using a non-randomized clinical trial design based at the Internation
al School of Mongolian Medicine of MNUMS and the Inner Mongolia International Mongolian Medicine Committee
(IMIMC). The study included 70 patients diagnosed with herpes zoster (ICD 10-B02.9) who met the inclusion criteria.
The treatment group received bloodletting pricking therapy combined with acupuncture. The control group received
Acyclovir 800 mg 5 times daily for 7-10 days and Pregabalin 75 mg twice daily for 14 days. Treatment effectiveness was
evaluated using the VAS linear scale for pain assessment, the SF-12 (Short Form-12 health survey) questionnaire for quality of life, and the Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS) to measure sleep quality and evaluate insomnia. The treatment outcome
was assessed according to the Mongolian Traditional Medicine Diagnostic and Treatment Standards.
Results:
The average age of participants was 47.29±11.11 in the treatment group and 44.43±11.63 in the control group,
with 34% male and 66% female participants. According to the VAS linear scale, the treatment group showed a statistically
significant greater reduction in pain (P<0.001). The quality-of-life assessment using the SF-12 questionnaire showed that
the Physical Component Summary (SF-12-PCS) in the treatment group increased from 32.71±7.38 before treatment to
52.99±2.02 after treatment (t=-17.18, p<0.001), while in the control group, it increased from 36.10±7.41 to 51.56±7.9
(SF-12-3.9) (p<0.001). According to the AIS questionnaire, the sleep quality in the treatment group was significantly
better than in the control group (P<0.05). According to the Mongolian Traditional Medicine Diagnostic and Treatment
Standards, the combined treatment of pricking therapy and acupuncture resulted in a 100% recovery rate.
Conclusion
1. The combination of bloodletting pricking therapy and acupuncture in treating herpes zoster effectively reduces pain.
2. For patients diagnosed with herpes zoster, combining bloodletting pricking therapy with acupuncture effectively
improves quality of life in terms of sleep quality as well as physical and mental functioning.
9.The study on the effects of commonly used mouthwash solutions with different compositions on the oral environment
Tsolmon А ; Oyuntsetseg B ; Tselmeg B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;88(4):226-230
Background:
Pre-procedural mouth rinsing has been shown to reduce pathogenic microorganisms, prevent secondary
infections, and shorten healing time prior to periodontal treatment, oral surgeries, and endodontic procedures. In Mongolia, most dental clinics routinely recommend mouth rinsing before treatment. Moreover, since the COVID-19 pandemic,
there has been a notable increase in the public’s use of various mouth rinses outside clinical settings. However, there is a
lack of comparative clinical studies assessing the efficacy of these commercially available rinses.
Aim:
To clinically compare the effects of various commonly used mouth rinses with different active ingredients on the
oral environment.
Materials and Methods:
A case-control study was conducted involving 210 participants with mixed dentition, receiving
care at the Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry Department of the Central Dental Hospital of Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences. Participants completed a 17-question survey in three groups, followed by clinical examinations.
Oral pH, malodor, and bacterial counts were measured using a phase-contrast microscope (OMAX 40X-2500X, USA)
after collecting plaque and saliva samples. Ethical approval was obtained from the Research Ethics Committee of the
Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences. Data analysis was performed using STATA 14.
Results:
A total of 210 children participated (mean age 9.04±1.2 year; 52.2% male, 47.8% female). The average DMFT
index was 6.3 DMF+df/t (high), and oral hygiene index was 1.53 score (moderate). The baseline oral pH was 6.3±0.5
score. After rinsing with sodium bicarbonate, the pH increased to 7.4±0.4 score, and remained at 6.61±0.31 score after 40
minutes. In contrast, the placebo group showed minimal change (6.06±0.45 to 6.09±0.31 score). Statistically significant
differences between groups were observed.
Baseline oral malodor averaged 80.8±1.4 ppb. After rinsing with povidone-iodine, it decreased to 76.1±3.4 ppb at 40
minutes, while in the placebo group it decreased from 74.2±4.9 ppb to 66.3±3.8 ppb. Bacterial count prior to rinsing was
18.85±0.77 score. Chlorhexidine gluconate reduced this to 11.06±0.68 score immediately after rinsing and to 8.8±3.8
score after 40 minutes, whereas the placebo group showed minimal reduction (15.21±2.02 to 17.6±2.2 score).
Conclusions
Pre-procedural mouth rinsing demonstrated a statistically significant positive impact on the oral environ
ment, including improvements in breath odor and a reduction in microbial load. The effectiveness of these outcomes was
found to vary depending on the specific composition of the mouthwash used. These findings suggest that selecting an
appropriate mouthwash based on the clinical setting can enhance treatment efficiency. Nonetheless, all evaluated solutions
contributed to maintaining or improving the balance of the oral environment.
10.Evalutaion on students’ essay writing
Oyuntsetseg S ; Uzmee M ; Narmandakh S ; Naranchimeg S
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;87(3):215-218
Background:
Written communication skill is of the important skills for
medical doctors and medical professionals. Written communication includes
daily notes, letters, memos, personal requests, summaries, reports,
editorials, and essays. An essay is a form of written assessment
used by educators to make inferences about a problem, evaluate a
situation, and assess their knowledge and understanding among students.
Essay writing is an important tool for developing thinking, critical
thinking, and analytical skills.
Aim:
To do a comparative evaluation of essays by first-year students of
pre-med and pre-health education
Materials and Methods:
In this study, essays written on the topic
“My Childhood” by students who studied Communication Skills in the
2022–2023 and 2023–2024 academic years were evaluated using the
6 criteria of the Rubric and the group discussion identified the problems
students faced when writing essays.
Results:
Among the essays of 568 first-year basic education students
who studied in the 2022–2023 academic year, 32.6% had spelling errors,
25.5% had grammatical and composition errors, and 20.4% were
insufficiently written in terms of content. It was identified that 28.6% of
the essays of 525 students who studied in the 2023–2024 academic
year contained spelling errors, 21.8% contained compositional errors,
and 18.6% lacked content. Additionally, 10.5% did not have the required
essay structure for writing their essays.
Conclusion
This indicates the need for content reforms in the curriculum
to further improve students' writing skills.
Result Analysis
Print
Save
E-mail