Mindfulness therapy reduces depression anxiety and increases sleep quality of university students

Anxiety and depression are the most common mental disorders, with a significant impact on work capability and performance. College students face stressors such as leaving home, assuming new responsibilities, and academic challenges, leading to increased stress and difficulty coping with stressors. As a result, many students sacrifice their sleep quality. Early psychological interventions can help prevent mental disorders, and the prevalence of mental health disorders varies widely among university students.

A study published in Frontiers in Public Health concluded that mindfulness therapy may reduce depression, anxiety, and stress in university students. Additionally, it may improve their sleep quality but not their mindfulness rating scores significantly. These findings emphasize mindfulness therapy’s effects on students’ moods.

This study estimated the effect of mindfulness therapy on mental health.

Two researchers conducted a meta-analysis of 12 databases to determine how mindfulness therapy impact depression. They searched relevant trials ( January 2018 to May 2023) and measured depression using different scales and scoring systems like Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology (QIDS), Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS) and others. After screening, they included 11 randomized controlled trials involving 1,824 participants.

Key findings are:

  • Studies demonstrated positive effects of mindfulness therapy on depression, anxiety, stress and sleep quality with SMD,−0.33, −0.35, −0.39, and −0.81, respectively.
  • There was no significant difference in mindfulness between the mindfulness therapy and control groups, with an SMD of -0.12.

They added that future studies should evaluate the effectiveness of strategies to enhance mindfulness therapy adherence and fidelity in improving mental health outcomes.

It is crucial to develop a simple, economical, and effective intervention to address mental health issues among university students.

Study strengths include inclusion of studies from 12 global databases, representative sample, large sample size all of which lead to subgroup and sensitivity analysis.

Reference:

Zuo X et al.The efficacy of mindfulness-based interventions on mental health among university students: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Public Health. 2023 Nov 30;11:1259250. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1259250.

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JAMA: Increased Risk of Vitiligo Observed in Transplant Recipients

Vitiligo is characterized by the selective loss of melanocytes, but the large-scale studies assessing its occurrence in transplant recipients specially those with graft-vs-host disease (GVHD), have been rarely studied so far. In a recent cohort study by Chul Hwan Bang and colleagues, a significant correlation between solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplant (SOT and HSCT) recipients and an heightened risk of vitiligo was explored. The findings were published in JAMA Dermatology.

The study utilized data from the National Health Insurance Service database of Korea and included patients of 20 years or older. These participants underwent transplantation from January 2010 to December 2017, with follow-up until December 2019. A total of 119,145 individuals were grouped as age- and sex-matched controls who provided the benchmark for comparison.

The analysis was conducted from July to December 2021 revealed that the 23,829 transplant patients studied exhibited a higher risk of vitiligo compared to their non-transplant counterparts (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR] of 1.73; 95% CI, 1.35-2.22). Also, kidney and liver transplant recipients showed a slightly increased risk, but the most important findings were observed in HSCT recipients by indicating an AHR of 12.69 (95% CI, 5.11-31.50).

Further stratification revealed that those who had received allogeneic grafts, autologous grafts, patients with comorbid GVHD, and those without GVHD all demonstrated higher vitiligo risks compared to the control group.

The key findings of this research emphasize the imperative for clinicians to be cognizant of the increased risk of vitiligo in transplant recipients, specially in the context of HSCT, GVHD, and the type of graft received. This understanding urges a multidisciplinary approach in monitoring patients to bridge dermatology and transplantation medicine. With this outcome, clinicians can customize their strategies to offer more vigilant care to those at high risk, ultimately improving the management of transplant recipients.

Source:

Bang, C. H., Park, H. E., Kim, Y. H., Jung, J.-H., Lee, J. H., Park, Y. M., & Han, J. H. (2023). Risk of subsequent vitiligo in transplant recipients with comorbid graft-vs-host disease. JAMA Dermatology (Chicago, Ill.). https://doi.org/10.1001/jamadermatol.2023.4933

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Urethral stenosis post-radiation therapy has magnitude of side effects with poor patient reported QoL

Canada: A recent study published in Urology has shed light on health-related quality of life (QoL) in patients with urethral stenosis after radiation treatment for prostate cancer.

The researchers revealed urethral stenosis after radiotherapy to be a clinically complex entity with a broad scope of associated symptoms, including high rates of patient-reported incontinence, pain, sexual dysfunction, depression, and bowel dysfunction.

“This multi-focal nature combined with patient unawareness and often insidious presentation creates a uniquely challenging condition to treat,” the researchers wrote.

Patients with localized prostate cancer typically have a choice of curative options, either surgery (radical prostatectomy) or radiotherapy (external beam or brachytherapy). There is no clarity on which treatment provides superior outcomes for both preserved genitourinary (GU) function and cancer control.

Kennedy Dirk and Keith Rourke from the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, aimed to evaluate patient-reported QoL (PRQoL) in patients presenting with membranous urethral stenosis after prostate radiotherapy. Urethral stenosis is an under-reported complication following prostate radiotherapy with a particular deficiency in PRQoL.

For this purpose, the researchers retrospectively reviewed patients presenting with urethral stenosis after radiotherapy from 2004-2022. Patient-reported quality of life was evaluated via patient survey using the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite for Clinical Practice (EPIC-CP). The researchers identified 230 patients at a mean age of 67.7 years and a mean time to stricture diagnosis of 63.6 months post-radiotherapy.

The study led to the following findings:

  • Of 87 patients completing the survey, 29.9% recalled being aware of urethral stenosis as a potential complication, and 51.7% had documentation of urethral stenosis as a potential complication.
  • 33.5% of patients underwent urethroplasty, 59.6% repeat endoscopic treatment and 6.1% an indwelling catheter. 64.4% of patients reported urinary dysfunction as a “moderate” or “big” problem, 66.7% reported frequent or total incontinence, 64.4% required daily pad use and 50.6% reported incontinence as either a “moderate” or “big” problem.
  • 85.0% reported poor or absent orgasmic dysfunction and 88.5% reported erections insufficient for sexual activity.
  • 47.1% of patients reported rectal pain and 31.0% reported dysuria.
  • Fatigue and depressive symptoms were reported by 60.9% and 41.4% of patients, respectively.

“The findings from this cohort of patients presenting with urethral stenosis after radiotherapy for localized prostate cancer showed the magnitude of side effects and global impact on PRQoL which has previously not been reported,” the researchers wrote.

“There is a broad scope of patient-reported symptoms spanning lower urinary tract symptoms, incontinence, bowel dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, and systemic effects,” they concluded.

Reference:

Dirk, K., & Rourke, K. (2023). Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Urethral Stenosis after Radiation Treatment for Prostate Cancer. Urology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.urology.2023.10.041

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Women with history of bariatric surgery had lower pregnancy weight gain than matched controls: JAMA

In a groundbreaking nationwide study conducted in Sweden from 2014 to 2021, researchers delved into the intricate relationship between pregnancy weight gain and the history of bariatric surgery. The study found that women who underwent bariatric surgery had lower weight gain in pregnancy than women who did not undergo surgery. The study results were published in the journal JAMA Network Open. 

The increasing global prevalence of obesity in reproductive-age women poses maternal and fetal health risks. Bariatric surgery, notably gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, is a primary treatment. Previous studies indicate reduced risks for certain complications, but concerns remain about postoperative pregnancy weight gain. This Swedish nationwide study aims to compare pregnancy weight gain among women with a history of bariatric surgery against those without. The investigation delves into potential variations based on surgical procedure, surgery-to-conception interval, and surgery-to-conception weight loss, addressing existing gaps in understanding.

Also Read:  Hypoalbuminemia increase complications associated with bariatric surgery

The nationwide, population-based matched cohort study encompassing 12,776 pregnancies, aimed to shed light on how bariatric surgery influences pregnancy outcomes and whether factors such as surgical procedure, surgery-to-conception interval, and weight loss play crucial roles. This population-based study in Sweden (2014–2021) matched singleton pregnancies with a history of bariatric surgery to those without, employing a 1:1 propensity score matching based on various factors. Data analysis spanned from November 2022 to May 2023. The main outcome was to measure pregnancy weight gain was standardized by gestational age into early-pregnancy BMI-specific z scores.

Findings: 

  • The findings, unveiled through meticulous analysis, revealed a compelling connection between a woman’s history of bariatric surgery and her pregnancy weight gain. 
  • Notably, across all early-pregnancy BMI categories, women with a history of bariatric surgery exhibited lower pregnancy weight gain compared to their counterparts without such surgical history.
  • The study categorized BMI into normal weight, overweight, and various obesity classes, highlighting that the disparities in pregnancy weight gain were consistently evident.
  • One of the key revelations was that the choice of surgical procedure did not significantly alter the observed patterns of pregnancy weight gain. Whether individuals underwent gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, the impact on pregnancy weight gain remained consistent. 
  • The study also explored the temporal aspect, investigating the influence of the surgery-to-conception interval. Intriguingly, a shorter surgery-to-conception interval, particularly within the first year, was associated with lower pregnancy weight gain. This temporal factor emerged as a crucial variable, suggesting that the timing of conception relative to bariatric surgery plays a pivotal role in shaping pregnancy outcomes.
  • Furthermore, the study highlighted the correlation between surgery-to-conception weight loss and pregnancy weight gain. Notably, a lower surgery-to-conception weight loss was linked to reduced pregnancy weight gain, contributing another layer to the intricate relationship between bariatric surgery history and maternal weight dynamics during pregnancy. 
Also Read: Bariatric surgery associated with Lower risk of haematological cancer among women: Lancet

In essence, this nationwide matched cohort study provides comprehensive insights into the nuanced association between bariatric surgery and pregnancy weight gain. The research not only challenges prevailing assumptions but also emphasizes the multifaceted nature of this relationship, encouraging a more nuanced approach to understanding the impact of bariatric surgery on pregnancy outcomes. As medical science continues to unravel the complexities of these interactions, this study marks a significant step forward in bridging gaps in knowledge and guiding future research and clinical practices.

Further reading: Xu H, Holowko N, Näslund I, et al. Pregnancy Weight Gain After Gastric Bypass or Sleeve Gastrectomy. JAMA Netw Open. 2023;6(12):e2346228. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.46228

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Higher Omega-3 levels intake may lower risk of total and ischemic stroke

A 2021 global study revealed that 1 in 4 adults will experience a stroke in their lifetime, making it the second-leading cause of death and third-leading cause of death and disability combined. Traditionally, diets low in sodium, saturated fat, and cholesterol (high-fibre diets) are the nutritional-based approach to preventing these conditions. Marine omega-3 PUFAs have also shown potential in preventing CVD.

According to a recent study published in STROKE, Higher omega-3 levels are linked to a lower risk of total and ischemic stroke; there is no association with hemorrhagic stroke.

The effect of marine omega-3 PUFAs on the risk of stroke remains unclear. This study investigated the associations between circulating and tissue omega-3 PUFA levels and incident stroke (total, ischemic, and hemorrhagic). The study design included 29 international prospective cohorts with 183,291 participants. Each site conducted de novo individual-level analyses. Harmonized data is centrally pooled and analyzed.

Key findings from the study are:

  • Out of 183,291 participants, 10,561 strokes were observed, including 8,220 ischemic and 1,142 hemorrhagic strokes, during a median follow-up of 14.3 years.
  • For eicosapentaenoic acid, comparing quintile 5 with quintile 1, total stroke incidence was 17% lower and ischemic stroke was 18% lower with HR 0.83 and 0.82, respectively.
  • For docosahexaenoic acid, comparing Q5 with Q1, there was a 12% lower incidence of total stroke and a 14% lower incidence of ischemic stroke with HR, 0.88 and 0.86, respectively.
  • Neither eicosapentaenoic acid nor docosahexaenoic acid was associated with a risk for hemorrhagic stroke.
  • These associations were not modified by baseline AF history or prevalent CVD.

James H. O’Keefe said This analysis of prospective studies found that long-chain omega-3 PUFA levels were inversely associated with f total and ischemic stroke risk, but not with hemorrhagic stroke risk. Therefore, higher DHA and EPA intakes may lower the stroke risk.

Reference:

O’Keefe et al. Omega-3 blood levels and stroke risk: A pooled and harmonized analysis of 183 291 participants from 29 prospective studies. Stroke, 55(1), 50–58. https://doi.org/10.1161/strokeaha.123.044281

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Maternal folic acid supplementation during pregnancy tied to reduced Kawasaki disease risk during infancy in offspring: JAMA

Japan: A recent study published in JAMA Network Open has suggested a reduced risk of Kawasaki disease (KD) during infancy among offspring with increasing maternal folic acid levels via maternal folic acid supplementation during pregnancy.

The Japanese nationwide birth cohort study of 87,702 children revealed that the frequency of maternal folic acid supplementation and maternal serum folic acid levels during pregnancy were significantly associated with a reduced risk of Kawasaki disease in offspring during infancy.

Kawasaki disease is an acute systemic vasculitis that majorly affects young children and infants. A previous study has reported a possible association between maternal folic acid supplementation and Kawasaki disease, but no reproducible risk factors have been identified yet. Sayaka Fukuda, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan, and colleagues investigate the associations of exposure to maternal serum folic acid levels and maternal folic acid supplementation with the onset of KD during infancy among offspring.

In the cohort study, the researchers used data from a nationwide birth cohort, the Japan Environment and Children’s Study, which enrolled children since 2011.

Maternal serum folic acid levels (≥10 ng/mL classified as exposed) were determined during the second and third trimesters and the frequency of maternal folic acid supplementation during the first trimester and during the pregnancy’s second and third trimesters (once a week or more was classified as exposed).

The primary outcome of the study was the onset of Kawasaki disease in offspring up to 12 months of age. Odds ratios (ORs) for each exposure were estimated, and propensity score–adjusted logistic regression was conducted based on the sets of variables.

Based on the study, the researchers reported the following findings:

  • The study population consisted of 87,702 children who were followed up for 12 months. Of these, 336 children developed Kawasaki disease.
  • Mothers who took folic acid supplements (35.7% of mothers; mean age, 32 years) had higher serum folic acid levels than those who did not take supplements.
  • Higher maternal serum folic acid levels were associated with a significantly lower risk of Kawasaki disease in offspring than lower levels (folic acid ≥10 vs <10 ng/mL, 0.27% children vs 0.41% children; OR, 0.68).
  • Children whose mothers took folic acid supplementation during the first trimester had a lower prevalence of Kawasaki disease than children whose mothers did not take folic acid (0.34% of children versus 0.42% of children), although the difference was not statistically significant (OR, 0.83).
  • Supplementation during the second and third trimesters was associated with a significantly lower risk of Kawasaki disease compared with no supplementation (94 of 0.30% children versus 0.43% children; OR, 0.73).

“Findings showed that higher serum folic acid levels (≥10 ng/mL) and maternal folic acid supplementation more than once a week during the second and third trimesters were tied to a reduced risk of Kawasaki disease in offspring during infancy” they concluded.

Reference:

Fukuda S, Tanaka S, Kawakami C, Kobayashi T, Ito S, Japan Environment and Children’s Study Group. Maternal Serum Folic Acid Levels and Onset of Kawasaki Disease in Offspring During Infancy. JAMA Netw Open. 2023;6(12):e2349942. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.49942

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Fascia iliaca and pericapsular nerve group blocks may bring pain relief in patients undergoing Hip replacement

Patients who receive hip arthroplasty may have moderate to severe pain after surgery, which might negatively impact their long-term prognosis and increase their risk of perioperative complications. Treatments for regional anaesthesia, such as fascia iliaca compartment block (FICB) and pericapsular nerve group block (PENG), improve functional ability and quality of life.

However, there is now little data to refute the analgesic benefits of these techniques. Twelve randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were included in this recently published systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the relative efficacy of pericapsular nerve group block (PENG) and fascia iliaca compartment block (FICB) for patients undergoing hip replacement surgery. The primary outcome was the pain score (1–10) using the visual analogue scale (VAS) or numeric rating scale (NRS) at rest and during movement after a 24-hour period. The GRADE method was used to evaluate the data, and it was found that there was intermediate quality evidence for pain ratings at rest and during movement over a period of 30 to 24 hours. PENG block indicated improved analgesia in 30 minutes during movement and during rest, and a 24 hour decrease in postoperative opioid consumption, with a fair degree of confidence in the findings. The study found that PENG block was more effective than suprainguinal or infrainguinal FICB at rest and during movement within 30 minutes. Peripheral nerve blocks are preferred over regular intravenous opioids in the better recovery after surgery protocol because they may decrease pain, speed up the mobility and usage of opioids, and lower the risk of side effects in the early postoperative phase.

Reference –

Prakash, Jay; Rochwerg, Bram1; Saran, Khushboo2; Yadav, Arun K.3; Bhattacharya, Pradip Kumar; Kumar, Amit4; Chaudhuri, Dipayan1; Priye, Shio5. Comparison of analgesic effects of pericapsular nerve group block and fascia iliaca compartment block during hip arthroplasty: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Indian Journal of Anaesthesia 67(11):p 962-972, November 2023. | DOI: 10.4103/ija.ija_672_23.

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Thyroid test not done before IVF Procedure: AIIMS Delhi held negligent, slapped compensation

New Delhi: The State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Delhi recently held the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) guilty of medical negligence while providing In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatment to a patient.

Despite undergoing the IVF procedure twice, the complainant could not conceive. She alleged that the treating doctors at the hospital failed to prescribe the necessary Thyroid test before undergoing the procedure.

AIIMS has been directed by the Commission to pay Rs 2.5 lakh compensation (including the cost of treatment spent for IVF) to the Complainant for the suffering, mental pain and agony caused.

The Commission opined that there was sheer negligence on the part of the hospital as the patient was not treated with due care and caution by the hospital and the treatment was not done in accordance with the medical practice followed by the doctors while treating the patient of similar condition and age.

The matter goes back to 2008 when the complainant approached AIIMS hospital to undergo the necessary treatment to overcome infertility and to have a child. After the preliminary tests and examinations under the guidance of the HOD Gynae, the complainant was advised to opt for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and accordingly, she got admitted to the hospital on 07.01.2008 and a team of doctors was engaged to start laparoscopy and a mandatory process before the IVF i.e. Mock ET on 26.03.2008. Consequently, the IVF process was conducted by the operating doctor on 01.12.2008.

Following this, the patient was discharged on the same day after charging an amount of Rs 60,000 for the said process. However, allegedly, the Thyroid-test, which is necessary in cases of fertility was not done or advised by the operating doctor before commencement of the treatment.

The second plan for IVF was adopted beginning on 20.05.2010 with the help of frozen embryo. However, the doctors failed to advise the Thyroid Test before undergoing the method adopted and therefore, no positive result came out from the second IVF process, alleged the complainant.

Thereafter, the third IVF process was proposed to be carried out on 21.04.2011. However, as the patient was putting on weight, she decided to go for the Thyroid Test through a pathology, from where she got to know that she was suffering from thyroid and therefore she consulted Dr. Ganpati, a specialist, who prescribed some medicines for the treatment of thyroid.

Once again the complainant approached AIIMS, where the operating doctor advised the Thyroid test and based on the report dated 27.06.2011. However, no such test was prescribed by them prior to such date, alleged the complainant. Losing all her faith in the hospital, the complainant deferred to go for the third IVF process.

It was alleged by the complainant that when she was admitted to AIIMS, the operating doctor should have, at the first instance, advised for the Thyroid-Test since it is crucial to know about the success rate of the IVF and the process should run accordingly. She alleged that there was clear negligence on the part of the hospital as the operating doctors also failed to conduct the required test during the second phase of IVF.

In her complaint, she pointed out that the success rate in the case of IVF is 25 to 30%. However, in the case when the patient is suffering from Thyroid, the success rate falls to 15%. However, no efforts were made by the hospital to advice for the Thyroid Test, alleged the complainant. 

Therefore, on these grounds mentioned above, the complainant alleged utter Medical Negligence on the part of the hospital and approached the State Consumer Court, Delhi. 

While considering the matter, the consumer court heard the complainant’s counsel and also perused the material available on record including the written arguments filed on behalf of the complainant and the hospital. In order to discuss in detail the scope and extent of Negligence with respect of Medical Professionals, the consumer court referred to the order in the case of Seema Garg & Anr. vs. Superintendent, Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital & Anr. decided on 31.01.2022.

In the concerned judgment, it was mentioned that in cases where the allegations are levelled against the Medical Professionals, negligence is an essential ingredient for the offence, which is basically the breach of a duty exercised by omission to do something which a reasonable man would do or would abstain from doing. However, negligence cannot be attributed to a doctor so long as he performs his duties with reasonable skill and competence and they are entitled to protection so long as they follow the same.

Referring to this order, the consumer court noted,

“In the present case also, it will have to be ascertained whether there was any lack of skill and competence on the part of the operating doctor and/or any omission to do what was actually required in the present facts and circumstances.”

The Commission observed that the complainant did not allege that the operating doctors did not have the requisite skill or competence or they were not qualified to operate on the complainant. The main complaint was that the treating doctors at AIIMS failed to do the thyroid test before doing the IVF procedure, noted the Commission.

At this outset, the Commission perused the discharge summary and noted,

“Therefore, in order to check whether there was an deficiency on the part of treating doctor, we have carefully perused the medical records filed by the Complainant and found that the treating doctor have prescribed certain tests before doing the first process of IVF and they were done before doing IVF, however, no Thyroid-test was done and prescribed by the treating doctors which can be clearly seen from the discharge summary available before us…”

Additionally, the consumer court found that the treating doctors while mentioning the history of patient have mentioned about the Thyroid-Test which was undertaken by the Complainant in the year 2004 and mentioned the readings as: T3-119.0, T4 – 6.54 and TSH – 4.38 which was normal.

Besides, the Commission also took note of the fact that the “…Thyroid function may indeed affect the process and success of in vitro fertilization (IVF) as the thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and hormone production, and thyroid disorders can impact fertility in the patient. Additionally, Thyroid hormones, specifically thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), plays a role in regulating the menstrual cycle and ovulation. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) or an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can disrupt the normal hormonal balance required for ovulation and the preparation of the uterine lining for embryo implantation and due to these reasons, it is important for individuals undergoing IVF to have their thyroid function evaluated and, if necessary, treated or managed before and during the IVF process. Further, if a thyroid disorder is diagnosed, appropriate treatment or medication may be recommended to bring thyroid function into the normal range.”

However, the Commission observed that the treating doctors have failed to diagnose the Thyroid function at the primary stage and it came to the knowledge of the treating doctor in the year 2011, when the Complainant opted to get herself checked for the Thyroid test. “Additionally, considering the age of the Complainant in the present case, it was clear to the treating doctor that the chances of getting the IVF successful in the present case is very low,” noted the Commission.

“Moreover, it is a well laid down principle that the doctor diagnosing upon a patient is the best judge of the treatment which is to be undertaken for that specific patient. There may be multiple approaches with which the patient may be treated upon, however, the doctor is expected to choose the most appropriate one in the given facts and circumstances. Hence, a higher degree of reliance is placed upon the concerned doctor, that whatever option he/she exercises will be for the benefit and interest of the patient. However, failure on the part of doctor in diagnosing the Thyroid function at the primitive stage has mentally and physically harassed the Complainant and her family,” it further added.

Finally, relying upon the Supreme Court order in the case of Jacob Mathew v. State of Punjab and Anr, Martin F. D’Souza v. Mohd. Ishfaq, and Kusum Sharma and Ors. (supra), the Commission opined that the approach in medical negligence cases should be “what was actually done by the doctor was not acceptable or generally used in the medical practices at the given point of time.”

Taking all these factors into account, the Commission opined that there was sheer negligence on the part of the hospital i.e. AIIMS

“as the patient (Complainant) was not treated with due care and caution by the Opposite Party no. 1 and the treatment was not done in accordance with the medical practice followed by the doctors while treating the patient of similar condition and age.”

Therefore, holding AIIMS negligent in providing its services to the Complainant and keeping in view the principles detailed above and the facts and circumstances of the case, the age of the patient, and other necessary and essential factors, the Commission opined it to be just and reasonable to award compensation of Rs. 2,50,000 (including the cost of treatment spent by the Complainant for IVF) to the Complainant for the suffering, mental pain and agony caused.

“The amount so awarded … be paid by the Opposite Party no. 1 being liable, within a period of three months from the date of present judgment i.e. on or before 29.02.2024, failing which, the Opposite Party no. 1 would be liable to pay the said amount alongwith the interest at the rate of 9% p.a. from 01.12.2008 (when the Complainant has undergone for the first IVF process) till the actual realization of said amount,” the Commission mentioned in its order.

To view the order, click on the link below:

https://medicaldialogues.in/pdf_upload/aiims-negligence-229143.pdf

Also Read: Treatment of patient based on telephonic advice from doctor constitutes negligence, opines NCDRC

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Dr YSR University of Health Sciences to hold 26th Annual Convocation In February 2024, details

Andhra Pradesh: Dr YSR University of Health Sciences has announced the conduction of the 26th Annual Convocation in the month of February 2024.

All the students declared successful in the respective examinations of the year 2021 are eligible to receive the Degree certificates “IN PERSON” or “INABSENTIA”. The last date for submission of filled in application forms is 05.01.2024. The students need to visit the official website of the university for the application form.

Filled-in application forms should be sent to the “CONTROLLER OF EXAMINATIONS” Dr. YSR University of Health Sciences, Vijayawada only on or before 05.01.2024. The envelope containing the filled-in application should be superscribed “26th Annual Convocation”.

Instructions to apply for degree certificates –

All the students declared successful in their respective regular examinations of the year 2021 pertaining to Super Specialty Degree, Post Graduate Degree, Post Graduate Diploma, and PhD courses are eligible to receive the Degree certificates “IN PERSON” or “IN ABSENTIA”.

All the Undergraduate students declared successful in their respective regular examinations of the year 2021, including internship, are eligible to apply for the award of Degrees “IN ABSENTIA” of the convocation only. Degrees will not be awarded “IN PERSON” for undergraduates.

Such students for whom compulsory internship is not applicable but have passed their respective regular examination of the year 2021 are eligible to receive the Degree Certificates “IN ABSENTIA” only.

The filled-in Application Form should be submitted in person or by post to the Controller of Examinations, Dr.YSR University of Health Sciences, A.P. Vijayawada, so as to reach on or before 05.01.2024 duly enclosing all the required documents and Demand Draft as directed in the instructions/guidelines given in the concerned application form.

Also Read:MUHS to hold its 23rd Convocation Ceremony in February, all details here

Applications received after 05.01.2024 will not be considered.

The exact date, time, and venue of the Convocation will be notified separately.

The candidates applying for Degrees “IN PERSON”, for the PhD, Super Specialty Courses, and Medal / Prize winners only will be called onto the dais to receive the Degrees / Medals / Prizes. All other candidates (post-graduates) have to receive the Degrees in their respective seats only and will not be called onto the dais during the Convocation. IN ABSENTIA Degrees will be sent to the candidate’s address by post.

Instructions/guidelines to the applicants –

Use capital letters only while filling out the application form. Applications must be routed through the Principal of the College where the candidate has studied the Super Specialty/ PG Degree/ PG Diploma/ PhD/ Under Graduate Degree Courses.

Full Name –

1. It should be written as spelled in the Intermediate or its Equivalent Certificate by those who are applying for UG Degree Certificates.

2. It should be written as spelled in the UG Degree Certificates by those who are applying for Super Specialty/PG Degree/PG Diploma/Ph.D. Certificates.

3. In case of those who want to obtain Super Specialty/PG Degree/ PG Diploma/PhD/UG Degree Certificates as per the changed Name / changed Surname, the Full Name must be written as spelled in the AP Gazette, Proceedings of the Dr. YSR University of Health Sciences or any other Competent Educational Authority.

Passport Size Photographs –

1. One photograph should be affixed on the Application Form duly attested by the Principal of the college where the applicant has studied and passed.

2. Two photographs should be kept in an envelope and are to be enclosed in the Application.

The fee to be paid online as detailed below –

The online Payment link is mentioned in the notice below for degree certificates as detailed below –

Course

Fee for obtaining
Degree Certificate

In-Person

In-Absentia

Super Specialty/
Ph.D./ MD/ MS/ MDS/MD (Ayurveda)/MD (Homeopathy)/ MD (Unani) and PG Diploma

2000/-

3000/-

MSc Applied
Nutrition

2000/-

25000/-

MSc Nursing, MPT

1500/-

2000/-

MSc (M)

1000/-

1500/-

All UG Courses

–

1000/-

It should
be filled up by those who are applying for UG Degree Certificates only.

The
following documents are to be enclosed –

Common to
all applicants –

Those
candidates who want to obtain their Degree Certificates as per the changed Name
/ changed Surname should submit an attested copy of the AP Gazette / Proceedings of
Dr. YSR University of Health Sciences or any other Educational Authority.

All
enclosures must securely be tagged to the application.

The envelope containing two (2) passport-size photographs should be kept with the application, along with enclosures

Online
payment receipt should be enclosed in the application

There is no
need to enclose a self-addressed envelope either with stamps or without stamps.

By those
who are applying for issue of Super Specialty /PG Degree / PG Diploma /PhD
Degree Certificates only respective course and UG Degree Certificate –

For Super Specialty

Attested copy of PG
Permanent Degree Certificate

For PG
Degree/Diploma

Attested copies of the Provisional Certificate of the respective course and UG Degree Certificate

For PhD

Attested copy of the
qualifying Examination Certificate (previous qualification certificate)

By those who are applying for issue of UG Degree Certificates only –

1. Attested copy of Intermediate or Equivalent Certificate.

2. Attested copy of the Internship Certificate issued by the Principal of the concerned College.

3. Attested copy of UG Degree Provisional Certificate

4. Attested copy of Temporary / Permanent Registration Certificate as proof of having registered themselves with MCI/NMC/DCI/INC etc.

5. Attested copy of individual marks memos of First to Final year UG Degree Exams (only if the Official Transcript is not yet been issued by Dr. YSR UHS)

6. Attested copy of G.O. on transfer of candidate from one college to another college during the Internship period.

7. Address and Mobile numbers of the candidates shall be written in the following space (two copies)

To view the notice, click on the link below –

https://medicaldialogues.in/pdf_upload/convocation-notification-2-229144.pdf

Also Read:PGIMER To Conduct Counselling For PhD Courses On 9th January

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COVID-19 Surge: Odisha medical colleges instructed to increase surveillance, testing

Bhubaneswar: In view of a recent surge in COVID-19 cases across India, the Odisha state government has asked all government-run medical colleges and chief district medical officers to increase surveillance, testing and preparedness to combat any surge in the state.

With Odisha reporting 14 new COVID-19 cases this month, the state government has asked all government-run medical colleges and chief district medical officers to increase surveillance, testing and preparedness for potential surge of the virus. 

Public Health Director Niranjan Mishra in a letter to all medical colleges and CDMOs said, “The recent rise in COVID-19 cases across India necessitates immediate and proactive measures to combat any surge in COVID-19 cases in the state. In continuation of the earlier communication, you are requested to implement the action points given therein and to remain alert to meet any exigency”.

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The state government said that ILI (influenza-like illness), and SARI (severe acute respiratory infection) surveillance should be increased and testing to be made available in every health institution.   

For those found positive, it said home isolation protocol is to be strictly followed and necessary treatment support should be provided besides ensuring dedicated beds and oxygen-supported beds for any admission and management as per the COVID management protocol and there should not be any unnecessary referrals.

It also asked the authorities that the COVID management strategy should be followed.

“Coordinate and collaborate with district administration for increasing IEC (Information Education Communication) and BCC (Behaviour Change Communication) for community awareness emphasising that symptomatic, elderly and vulnerable populations should adhere to the COVID-19 appropriate behaviour,” the letter said.

It also asked the authorities to ensure adequate availability of test kits, reagents drugs, and consumables to deal with the COVID situation in coordination with Odisha State Medical Corporation Limited.

This apart, the authorities were told that there should be timely data entry and reporting as per the said protocol, training and capacity building of healthcare providers and laboratory personnel and keeping a contingency plan ready to deal with any situation.

Meanwhile, one more person on Saturday tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 24 hours in the state taking the total number of coronavirus cases in Odisha to 14. However, one of the patients has now recovered and there are 13 active COVID-19 cases in the state at present, said Mishra.

Stating that all the new patients are showing mild symptoms of COVID-19, the public health director said that they are all undergoing treatment under home isolation and their health condition is stated to be stable.

The Health and Family Welfare Department has already stated that elderly people and those with co-morbidities have been advised to use facemasks while going out. The elderly people are also advised to avoid visiting crowded places.

Also Read:COVID-19 JN.1 Variant: Safdurjung hospital reserves 50 isolation beds, 9 ICU beds

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