1.Corn (Zea mays L) Boiled Water Provides Good Evidence for Lowering of Lipid Profile (HDL-C, LDL-C, Triglycerides, and Total Cholesterol) in Dyslipidemia
Sumarni Sumarni ; Hartati Hartati ; Afiyah Sri Harnany ; Dwi Sarbini ; Siti Fadlilah ; Ariyanto Nugroho
Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences 2023;19(No.6):118-126
Introduction: Dyslipidemia is a significant factor in cardiovascular and other diseases. Corn can be used to treat
dyslipidemia. This study is to determine the effect of boiled corn water on levels of HDL-C, LDL-C, triglycerides (TG),
and total cholesterol (TC) in people with dyslipidemia in certain areas in Indonesia. Methods: We used a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest control group design. A sample of 40 people for each group was taken using a purposive
sampling technique. The group was given the intervention of corn-boiled water @ 200cc twice daily for seven days.
Blood lipid profile using fasting and examined by Fluorometric-enzymatic assay method. All procedures are carried out based on operational standards. Within-group comparisons used the Wilcoxon test, while between-group
comparisons used the Mann-Whitney U and Independent T-Test. Results: The LDL-C control group experienced an
increase of 65.1 mg/dL, and the entire group’s lipid profile variation showed no difference between the pretest and
posttest (p>.05). The intervention group showed an increase in HDL-C (0.1 mg/dL), a decrease in LDL-C (30.2 mg/
dL), TG (27.0 mg/dL), and TC (35.6 mg/dL). Within-group comparison of the intervention group showed HDL-C
(p.153), LDL-C (p.001), TG (p.023), and TC (p<.001). A between-group comparison showed HDL-C (p.101), LDL-C
(p.034), TG (p.003), and TC (p.006). Conclusion: Whole corn boiled water provides good evidence that it is effective
in lowering LDL-C, TG, and TC, as well as improving dyslipidemia in HDL-C patients. This intervention can be used
as an alternative treatment for dyslipidemia in terms of nutrition.
2.Forecasting the effects of vaccination on the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia using SEIRV compartmental models
Mei Cheng LIM ; Sarbhan SINGH ; Chee Herng LAI ; Balvinder Singh GILL ; Mohd Kamarulariffin KAMARUDIN ; Ahmed Syahmi Syafiq MD ZAMRI ; Cia Vei TAN ; Asrul Anuar ZULKIFLI ; Mohamad Nadzmi Md NADZRI ; Nur'ain MOHD GHAZALI ; Sumarni MOHD GHAZALI ; Nuur Hafizah MD IDERUS ; Nur Ar Rabiah Binti AHMAD ; Jeyanthi SUPPIAH ; Kok Keng TEE ; Tahir ARIS ; Lonny Chen Rong Qi AHMAD
Epidemiology and Health 2023;45(1):e2023093-
OBJECTIVES:
This study aimed to develop susceptible-exposed-infectious-recovered-vaccinated (SEIRV) models to examine the effects of vaccination on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) case trends in Malaysia during Phase 3 of the National COVID-19 Immunization Program amidst the Delta outbreak.
METHODS:
SEIRV models were developed and validated using COVID-19 case and vaccination data from the Ministry of Health, Malaysia, from June 21, 2021 to July 21, 2021 to generate forecasts of COVID-19 cases from July 22, 2021 to December 31, 2021. Three scenarios were examined to measure the effects of vaccination on COVID-19 case trends. Scenarios 1 and 2 represented the trends taking into account the earliest and latest possible times of achieving full vaccination for 80% of the adult population by October 31, 2021 and December 31, 2021, respectively. Scenario 3 described a scenario without vaccination for comparison.
RESULTS:
In scenario 1, forecasted cases peaked on August 28, 2021, which was close to the peak of observed cases on August 26, 2021. The observed peak was 20.27% higher than in scenario 1 and 10.37% lower than in scenario 2. The cumulative observed cases from July 22, 2021 to December 31, 2021 were 13.29% higher than in scenario 1 and 55.19% lower than in scenario 2. The daily COVID-19 case trends closely mirrored the forecast of COVID-19 cases in scenario 1 (best-case scenario).
CONCLUSIONS
Our study demonstrated that COVID-19 vaccination reduced COVID-19 case trends during the Delta outbreak. The compartmental models developed assisted in the management and control of the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia.
3.Support of smoking restriction in public areas among adolescents in Malaysia-The findings from Tobacco and E-Cigarette Survey among adolescents in Malaysia (TECMA)
Kuang Hock Lim ; Pei Pei Heng ; Hui Li Lim ; Yoon Ling Cheong ; Chee Cheong Kee ; Sumarni Mohd Ghazali ; Jia Hui Lim
International Journal of Public Health Research 2022;12(no.1):1502-1509
Introduction:
Adolescents are the future generation, and their support for smoke-free policies might create momentum for future stringent smoke-free initiatives. This study aimed to determine the levels and factors associated with support for smoking in public areas among Malaysian school-going adolescents aged 10-19 years
Methods:
The data were derived from the Tobacco and E-cigarettes among adolescents in Malaysia (TECMA), which employed the cross-sectional study design and multistage sampling to select the representative samples of school-going adolescents. Data was obtained through self-administered of pre-validated questionnaire. Descriptive study, cross-tabulation and multivariable analysis were used for analysis
Conclusion
The level of support for smoke-free initiative in public areas was high among youths in Malaysia, and this might offer promising prospects to expand the non-smoking areas to more public areas in the future.
4.Construct Validity and Reliability of Malay Language-Perception towards Smoking Questionnaire (BM-PTSQ) Among Secondary School Adolescents
Lim Jia Hui ; Lim Kuang Hock ; Sumarni Mohd Ghazali ; Heng Pei Pei ; Cheong Yoon Ling ; Lim Hui Li ; Kee Chee Cheong ; Goh Yee Lin ; Ng Khuen Yen
International Journal of Public Health Research 2022;12(no.1):1486-1492
Introduction:
Multitude studies have shown perception is an integral factor associated with smoking, However, no such tool was available in Malay language. In this study, we established a Bahasa Malaysia version of PTSQ (BM-PTSQ) and tested the validity and reliability among secondary school adolescents.
Methods:
The English version of PTSQ originally consists of 12 items. It was translated into Bahasa Malaysia and back-translated again into English to check for consistency. After face validity (face-to-face query) was determined among 20 secondary school adolescents, only 10 items were included in the survey. Construct validity was established from 407 school adolescents through random selection in the same locality. More than 60% of the respondents were female, a majority (67.3%) were schooling in rural areas. Then, the reliability of the questionnaire was determined with Cronbach's alpha.
Results:
EFA has grouped PTSQ into two components, they are associated with either knowledge or attitude towards smoking. The variance and Cronbach's alpha for the first and second component were 38.24% and 0.861 (7 items) and 21.62% and 0.661 (3 items) respectively.
Conclusion
The PTSQ showed good validity and reliability for measurement of perception in smoking among school adolescents in Malaysia, thus this is a viable measurement tool. More importantly this study shows an urgent need to improve the smoking education among adolescents in Malaysia.
5.Cessation of E-Cigarette Use Among Adults in Malaysia: Findings from a Nationwide Survey
Muhammad Fadhli Mohd Yusoff ; Jane Ling Miaw Yn ; Thamil Arasu Saminathan ; Jamaluddin Ab Rahman ; Wan Shakira Rodzlan Hasani ; Tania Gayle Robert Lourdes ; Lim Kuang Hock ; Sumarni Mohd Ghazali ; Mohamad Haniki Nik Mohamed
International Journal of Public Health Research 2022;12(no.1):1564-1570
Introduction:
The use of e-cigarettes has increased rapidly around the world including in Malaysia. However, a significant proportion of people who started using e-cigarettes later discontinued using them. The aim of this study is to identify prevalence of former e-cigarette use and factors associated with quitting, among Malaysian adults.
Methods:
This study is a part of a national household survey examining the use of e-cigarettes among Malaysian adults aged 18 years and above in 2016. A multistage stratified cluster sampling method was used in the survey. A bilingual (Malay and English) structured questionnaire was used and data was collected via face-to-face interview. Prevalence of current e-cigarette use and former e-cigarette use were determined. A multiple logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with quitting e-cigarettes.
Results:
A total of 4,288 adults participated in the survey, where 110 (3.2%) and 289 (8.6%) were identified as current and former e-cigarette users respectively. The following factors were significantly associated with quitting e-cigarette use: e-cigarette users who had no exposure to e-cigarettes at the workplace (aOR = 2.70; 95% CI: 1.39, 5.24); the perception that e-cigarette is more harmful to others compared to tobacco smoke (aOR = 2.46; 95% CI: 1.22, 4.97); and the perception that e-cigarettes do not help people to maintain cigarette abstinence (aOR = 2.19; 95% CI: 1.23, 3.92).
Conclusions
This study contributes to a better understanding of the factors associated with cessation of e-cigarettes. Findings from this study can assist any e-cigarette cessation intervention measures.
6.Evaluation Of Universal Design Requirements Application In Public Mosques In Bandung
Rangga F ; Nangkula U ; Nazlina S ; Sumarni I ; Ratri W
Malaysian Journal of Public Health Medicine 2020;20(Special 1):238-242
A Number of studies have found the cases of facilities in public buildings which are inaccessible by users & visitors with different abilities. Thus, constructing user friendly and barrier-free architecture-interior design is necessary in the built environment. This research will evaluate the requirements for ease of access in public mosques with study cases Pusdai Mosque & Grand Mosque of Bandung in accordance with the Regulation of the Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing of the Republic of Indonesia No.14 2017. The regulation which stipulates the provision of facilities in buildings and environments that suit the needs of all age groups, conditions of physical; mental; and intellectual; or sensory limitations based on the buildings’ function to provide user and visitor convenience in doing activities in the buildings. Both mosques, the Pusdai Mosque and Grand Mosque have not entirely fulfilled the standards of universal design in the interior in term of ease of access, safety and autonomy of space use, safety and security for all. From 7 universal design standard requirements, both mosques of study case only fulfill less than 50% of the requirements
7.Displace of Smoking Into the Home and Second-hand Smoke Exposure at Home Among Malaysian Adults -findings From Two National Population-based Studies in Malaysia
Lim Kuag Hock ; Sumarni Mohd Ghazali ; Lim Hui Li ; Kee Chee Cheong ; Teh Chien Huey ; Lim Jia Hui
Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences 2020;16(No.2):198-205
Introduction: Expansion of smoke-free areas in public domains is suspected to displace smoking into the home. However, the scarcity of such information in Malaysia warrants an investigation to determine SHS exposure at home among adults in Malaysia. Methods: This study studied 4,250 and 21,445 adults who participated in the 2011 Global Adult Tobacco Survey-Malaysia (GATS-M) and, the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2015, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression modelling was used to compare the odds of SHS exposure at home among adults in 2011 (GATS-M) to odds of SHS exposure at home among adults in 2015 (NHMS 2015). Results: Approximately one third of respondents were exposed to SHS at home in 2011 (38.4%) and 2015 (37.9%). MLR analysis revealed the odds of SHS exposure at home was not significantly different from 2011 [AOR 1.14, 95 % CI (0.99-1.31). 2015 exposure to SHS as reference]. This study also indicates no significant displacement of smoking into the home by socio-demographic and smoking status between 2011 and 2015. Conclusion: The findings suggest that smoking has not been displaced into the home in the past four years although the number of smoke-free public areas have increased. More public smoke free areas should be established.
8.Stages Of Smoking Cessation Among Adult Current Smokers In Malaysia: Findings From The National E-Cigarette Survey 2016
Kuang Hock Lim ; Sumarni Mohd Ghazali ; Hui Li Lim ; Pei Pei Heng ; Kee Chee Cheong ; Teh Chien Huey ; Cheah Yong Kang ; Lim Jia Hui
Malaysian Journal of Public Health Medicine 2020;20(2):149-158
Identification of the stages of smoking cessation among smokers is essential to improve the rate of smoking cessation. The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence and factors associated with stages of smoking cessation across the demographic distribution of adult smokers in Malaysia. Data were derived from a population-based study among Malaysian adults aged 18 years and above. Face-to-face interviews were carried out by trained staff using a validated questionnaire to obtain data related to smoking from 4,288 selected respondents. Of 4,288, 438 respondents are current smokers. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to determine factors associated with stage of smoking cessation. Approximately 60% (n=269/438) of the current smokers were in the pre-contemplation stage and 40% (n=169/438) were in the contemplation and preparation stages of smoking cessation. The proportion of pre-contemplators was higher among smokers with higher levels of nicotine addiction (71.3%), lower education attainment (71.4%), and those who were single/widowed/divorced (66.9%). Multivariable analysis showed that males, and those who reported low to high level of nicotine addiction were more likely to be in the pre-contemplation stage whilst those in the older age groups were more likely to be in the advanced stage of smoking cessation. The study revealed that the majority of current smokers in Malaysia had no intention to quit smoking within 6 months. Specific interventions targeting males, young adults and smokers with low to high nicotine addiction should be introduced to ensure the smokers proceed to the advanced stage of smoking cessation.
9.Prevalence and Factors Associated With Total Smoking Restriction at Home in Malaysia: Findings From a Nationwide Population-Based Study
Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences 2019;15(3):20-28
Abstract
Introduction: Total restriction on smoking in the home is an effective tool to reduce Second-hand smoke (SHS) exposure in private dwellings. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of total smoking restrictions in Malaysian homes and factors associated with its adoption. Methods: We analyzed data from a cross-sectional, household study – the Global Adult Tobacco Survey 2011, which involved a representative sample of Malaysian adults. Factors associated with the adoption of a totally smoke free home policy was determined by multivariable logistic regression. Results: Out of the 4250 respondents studied, 40.9% (95% CI 38.1-43.8) adopted a total smoking restriction within their homes. Adoption of total smoke-free home policy was significantly higher among Chinese and Indians, those without smokers in the house, non-smokers and government employees. The likelihood of adopting the total smoking restriction at home was lower among current smokers, of Malay ethnicity, low education attainment, having at least one house member who smoked, residing in rural areas, single or widow/widower/divorcee, those working in the private sector or self-employed. Conclusions: Less than half of Malaysian households implemented a total smoking restriction in their residence. Targeted activities to encourage the adoption of voluntary smoke-free rules among groups least likely to implement 100% smoking restrictions in the home are urgently needed with participation of all stakeholders to ensure its success.
10.Household food insecurity and undernutrition in children below 5 years living in different geographical areas in East Java, Indonesia
Sri Sumarni ; Trias Mahmudiono ; Soenarnatalina Melaniani
Malaysian Journal of Nutrition 2018;24(4):529-538
Introduction: Geographical conditions may be linked with food insecurity and growth retardation in young children. This research assessed household food insecurity status and undernutrition in different geographical areas.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in four different types of geographical areas: coastal, limestone, agricultural and municipality, which were purposely selected in East Java Province. The samples were households with children aged below 5 years. A total of 736 households that fulfilled the inclusion criteria were recruited. Household food security was assessed using the Household Food Security Supplement Measure (US-HFSSM) adapted for developing countries. Nutritional status of children was determined and classified according to World Health Organization Growth Standard (2006).
Results: Prevalence and severity of household food insecurity differed significantly among the different geographical areas. Almost half (44.8%) of the households were categorised as “food insecure without hunger”. Prevalence of “hunger” was highest in coastal (7.2%) and limestone areas (5.3%). Highest prevalence of stunting was in coastal areas (11.6%), whereas highest prevalence of wasting (6.2%) and underweight (8.9%) were in limestone areas. Prevalence of undernutrition was relatively low among children living in municipalities. The differences in the distribution of undernutrition of young children and household food insecurity status were statistically associated with the types of geographical areas.
Conclusion: Prevalence of household food insecurity differed according to the types of geographical areas in East Java. Prevalence of household food insecurity and young child undernutrition were greater for households in the coastal and limestone areas, compared to those in the agricultural and municipality areas.


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