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Rajendiran S, Li Ping W, Veloo Y, Syed Abu Thahir S. Awareness, knowledge, disease prevention practices, and immunization attitude of hepatitis E virus among food handlers in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2024; 20:2318133. [PMID: 38433096 PMCID: PMC10913695 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2024.2318133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Concern about the zoonotic Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is rising. Since, food handlers are at greater risk in contracting HEV, the present study aims to determine awareness, knowledge, prevention practices against HEV, and immunization attitudes. A cross sectional study was conducted among 400 food handlers in Klang Valley, Malaysia from December 2021 to March 2022. A structured questionnaire was employed for data collection and analysis with Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 29. Approximately 4.5% of the respondents (18) reported having heard of HEV, while the median scores for the knowledge and practice domains were 0/10 and 1/5, respectively. A total of 316 (79%) respondents expressed willingness to obtain vaccination if made available. This study also found that those respondents who completed their tertiary education were significantly possessed better knowledge of the disease [odd ratio (OR) = 8.95, and 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.98-16.10]. Respondents with HEV awareness reported considerably better practices (OR = 8.24, 95% CI 1.72-39.63). Food handlers with one to five years of experience in the industry expressed notable willingness to take vaccination (OR = 7.71, 95% CI 1.79-33.18). Addressing poor HEV awareness and knowledge and poor practices against the disease is crucial in enlightening the policy makers about awareness among food handlers and general population. Nonetheless, a good immunization attitude, significant acceptance toward vaccination even with the vaccine being unavailable in Malaysia, and limited awareness of HEV highlight a promising development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakshaleni Rajendiran
- Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Health, Ministry of Health, Shah Alam, Malaysia
| | - Wong Li Ping
- Centre for Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Practice, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yuvaneswary Veloo
- Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Health, Ministry of Health, Shah Alam, Malaysia
| | - Syahidiah Syed Abu Thahir
- Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Health, Ministry of Health, Shah Alam, Malaysia
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Waseel F, Streftaris G, Rudrusamy B, Dass SC. Assessing the dynamics and impact of COVID-19 vaccination on disease spread: A data-driven approach. Infect Dis Model 2024; 9:527-556. [PMID: 38525308 PMCID: PMC10958481 DOI: 10.1016/j.idm.2024.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted global health, social, and economic situations since its emergence in December 2019. The primary focus of this study is to propose a distinct vaccination policy and assess its impact on controlling COVID-19 transmission in Malaysia using a Bayesian data-driven approach, concentrating on the year 2021. We employ a compartmental Susceptible-Exposed-Infected-Recovered-Vaccinated (SEIRV) model, incorporating a time-varying transmission rate and a data-driven method for its estimation through an Exploratory Data Analysis (EDA) approach. While no vaccine guarantees total immunity against the disease, and vaccine immunity wanes over time, it is critical to include and accurately estimate vaccine efficacy, as well as a constant vaccine immunity decay or wane factor, to better simulate the dynamics of vaccine-induced protection over time. Based on the distribution and effectiveness of vaccines, we integrated a data-driven estimation of vaccine efficacy, calculated at 75% for Malaysia, underscoring the model's realism and relevance to the specific context of the country. The Bayesian inference framework is used to assimilate various data sources and account for underlying uncertainties in model parameters. The model is fitted to real-world data from Malaysia to analyze disease spread trends and evaluate the effectiveness of our proposed vaccination policy. Our findings reveal that this distinct vaccination policy, which emphasizes an accelerated vaccination rate during the initial stages of the program, is highly effective in mitigating the spread of COVID-19 and substantially reducing the pandemic peak and new infections. The study found that vaccinating 57-66% of the population (as opposed to 76% in the real data) with a better vaccination policy such as proposed here is able to significantly reduce the number of new infections and ultimately reduce the costs associated with new infections. The study contributes to the development of a robust and informative representation of COVID-19 transmission and vaccination, offering valuable insights for policymakers on the potential benefits and limitations of different vaccination policies, particularly highlighting the importance of a well-planned and efficient vaccination rollout strategy. While the methodology used in this study is specifically applied to national data from Malaysia, its successful application to local regions within Malaysia, such as Selangor and Johor, indicates its adaptability and potential for broader application. This demonstrates the model's adaptability for policy assessment and improvement across various demographic and epidemiological landscapes, implying its usefulness for similar datasets from various geographical regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhad Waseel
- School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences, Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
- Faculty of Mathematics, Kabul University, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - George Streftaris
- School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Maxwell Institute for Mathematical Sciences, United Kingdom
| | - Bhuvendhraa Rudrusamy
- School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Sarat C. Dass
- School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences, Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
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Ong SQ, Dawood MM, Rahman H, Alias MF, Moideen MA, Lee PC, Fiorenzano JM, Christy N, McGlynn T, Cote N, Letizia AG. A protocol and training guidelines for mosquito sampling in remote areas with limited power supply. MethodsX 2024; 12:102563. [PMID: 38328504 PMCID: PMC10847759 DOI: 10.1016/j.mex.2024.102563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Mosquito-borne diseases pose a significant threat in many Southeast Asian countries, particularly through the sylvatic cycle, which has a wildlife reservoir in forests and rural areas. Studying the composition and diversity of vectors and pathogen transmission is especially challenging in forests and rural areas due to their remoteness, limited accessibility, lack of power, and underdeveloped infrastructure. This study is based on the WHO mosquito sampling protocol, modifies technical details to support mosquito collection in difficult-to-access and resource-limited areas. Specifically, we describe the procedure for using rechargeable lithium batteries and solar panels to power the mosquito traps, demonstrate a workflow for processing and storing the mosquitoes in a -20 °C freezer, data management tools including microclimate data, and quality assurance processes to ensure the validity and reliability of the results. A pre- and post-test was utilized to measure participant knowledge levels. Additional research is needed to validate this protocol for monitoring vector-borne diseases in hard-to-reach areas within other countries and settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song-Quan Ong
- Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
- Vysnova Partners, LLC, Alexandria, VA 22314, USA
| | | | - Homathevi Rahman
- Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
| | | | | | - Ping-Chin Lee
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah 88400, Malaysia
- Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah 88400, Malaysia
- Vysnova Partners, LLC, Alexandria, VA 22314, USA
| | | | | | - Thomas McGlynn
- U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit INDO PACIFIC, Singapore
| | - Noel Cote
- U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit INDO PACIFIC, Singapore
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Ching SM, Cheong AT, Yee A, Thurasamy R, Lim PY, Zarina II, Lee KW, Taher SW, Ramachandran V. Prevalence and factors associated with burnout among healthcare providers in Malaysia: a web-based cross-sectional study. Ir J Med Sci 2024; 193:851-863. [PMID: 37556104 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-023-03483-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to assess the determinants of burnout among healthcare providers in the primary care setting. METHODS A web-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 1280 healthcare providers aged 18 years and older from 30 primary care clinics in Selangor, Malaysia. In this study, the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory was used to assess burnout. The results were analyzed using multiple logistic regression. RESULTS The prevalence of personal burnout was 41.7%, followed by work-related burnout (32.2%) and client-related burnout (14.5%). The determinants for personal burnout in this study were younger age, being a doctor, higher COVID-19 exposure risk, do not know where to seek help, inability to handle stress, poorer sleep quality score, higher total COVID-19 fear score, higher total stress score, and lower total BRS score. The determinants of work-related burnout were younger age, being a doctor, longer years of working, higher COVID-19 exposure risk, do not know where to seek help, lower altruistic score, poorer sleep quality score, higher total stress score, and lower total brief resilience score (BRS) score. The determinants of client-related burnout were doctor, single/divorced, more than one attachment site, and higher satisfaction toward the infection control, inability to handle stress, higher total depression score, and lower total BRS score. CONCLUSION Every fourth out of ten suffered from personal burnout, one-third from work-related burnout, and one-seventh from client-related burnout among healthcare providers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Healthcare systems must take care of healthcare workers' physical and emotional depletion, reducing the risk of burnout.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siew-Mooi Ching
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Selangor, Serdang, Malaysia.
| | - Ai Theng Cheong
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Selangor, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Anne Yee
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ramayah Thurasamy
- School of Management, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Penang, Minden, Malaysia
| | - Poh Ying Lim
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Selangor, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Irmi Ismail Zarina
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Selangor, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Kai Wei Lee
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Selangor, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Sri Wahyu Taher
- Klinik Kesihatan Simpang Kuala, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Alor Setar Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Vasudevan Ramachandran
- Department of Medical Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University College of MAIWP International, Taman Batu Muda, 68100, Kuala Lumpur, Batu Caves, Malaysia
- Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India
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Rajaratnam S, Azman A. Violence and trauma encountered by Rohingya women fleeing to Malaysia: a qualitative study. Arch Womens Ment Health 2024; 27:233-240. [PMID: 38006427 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-023-01402-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
Rohingya women are doubly marginalized owing to their ethnicity and gender. Therefore, this study aims to describe the unique experiences of violence faced by Rohingya women who fled Myanmar and Bangladesh to seek asylum in Malaysia before, during, and after their transit. Primary data were collected from 33 participants comprising Rohingya women refugees and asylum seekers, medical social workers, medical officials, volunteer workers/activists, refugee organization officers, and a mental health care provider. Thematic analysis was used to identify the patterns in and relationships between the concepts in the collected data. Rohingya women were exposed to various forms of violence and trauma by various groups of men, including those from their own community, throughout their journey to and in Malaysia. The lack of recognition of refugees and asylum seekers in Malaysia prevents them from having mainstream or legal access to jobs, education, and healthcare, and this predicament compounds their suffering from violence, especially for women and girls. Rohingya women and girls in Malaysia need better access to healthcare, resources, and support to identify and address violence, which has a significant impact on their health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surendran Rajaratnam
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Azlinda Azman
- School of Social Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, USM, 11800, Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia
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Lim SM, Goh YX, Wong JE, Kagawa M, Poh BK. Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Malay-Translated Version of the Food Neophobia Scale for Malaysian Young Adults. Percept Mot Skills 2024; 131:381-396. [PMID: 38150555 DOI: 10.1177/00315125231225022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
The Food Neophobia Scale (FNS) is a research instrument, originally developed in English, to assess an individual's level of food neophobia. However, it has not yet been translated and validated for Malaysians. Therefore, we aimed to translate and validate a Malay-translated version of the FNS. Respondents were 200 young adults (mostly females, 73%; and students, 82.0%; M age = 22.3 years, SD = 2.3). We first translated the FNS into Malay using the forward-backward translation method, and a panel of nutrition and dietetics experts then reviewed it for item relevance, clarity, simplicity, and ambiguity. The translated FNS suggested good content validity with an item-level content validity index (I-CVI) > .8, a scale-level content validity index (S-CVI)/average = .8 and a S-CVI/universal agreement = .96. Principal component analysis revealed a two-factor model: (i) willingness and trust; and (ii) rejection and fear. Cronbach's alpha for the Malay-translated FNS was .808, demonstrating high internal consistency and reliability among young Malaysian adults. Future investigators can now use this Malay-translated FNS instrument to determine levels of food neophobia among Malaysians.
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Affiliation(s)
- See Meng Lim
- Centre for Community Health Studies (ReaCH), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yue Xin Goh
- Centre for Community Health Studies (ReaCH), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jyh Eiin Wong
- Centre for Community Health Studies (ReaCH), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Masaharu Kagawa
- Institute of Nutrition Sciences, Kagawa Nutrition University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Bee Koon Poh
- Centre for Community Health Studies (ReaCH), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Ali N, Mustaffa MM, Alkawsi G, Capretz LF. If you build it, will they come? Exploring the success factors of knowledge management systems in the Malaysian public sector. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27093. [PMID: 38510048 PMCID: PMC10950497 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The current study investigates the factors that influence the success of knowledge management systems in the public sector. This study integrates the DeLone and McLean Model with critical organizational factors. The model has been tested on the data collected from 158 employees in the public sector in Malaysia, the study found that knowledge content quality has a higher significant impact on the use of knowledge management systems than system quality. Perceived usefulness also has a greater impact than user satisfaction in determining the system's overall success. Among the organizational factors, leadership is the most significant determinant of success. However, the culture of sharing, perceived trust, and incentives do not significantly influence the use of knowledge management systems. The findings suggest that public sector organizations should focus on both system and organizational factors to implement successful knowledge management systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nor'ashikin Ali
- College of Computing & Informatics, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Malaysia
| | | | - Gamal Alkawsi
- Institute of Informatics and Computing in Energy, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, 43000, Selangor, Malaysia
- Faculty of Computer Science and Information Systems, Thamar University, Yemen
| | - Luiz Fernando Capretz
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B9, Canada
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Wong HY, Rajasuriar R, Wong PL, Lee YK. "I suppose in our culture, old means no sex": PLWH and healthcare provider views on factors influencing late HIV testing and diagnosis among older adults in Malaysia. AIDS Care 2024:1-15. [PMID: 38526987 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2331220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
The proportion of new HIV diagnoses among older adults aged ≥50 years continues to rise. Older adults are at higher risk of late diagnosis which is associated with higher treatment complexity and poorer health outcomes. Few studies in the Asia-Pacific region have explored factors contributing to late presentation and diagnosis in this population. Thus, our study aimed to explore factors influencing late HIV diagnosis among older adults ≥50 years in Malaysia. We conducted in-depth interviews with 16 older adults newly diagnosed with HIV (OPLWH) and focus group discussions with seven healthcare providers (HCPs) from different specialties in an academic tertiary hospital in Malaysia. All sessions were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. Three main themes related to late diagnosis among OPLWH emerged: (1) challenge in recognizing HIV symptoms among older persons, (2) older persons and HCPs having low index of suspicion of HIV and (3) poor acceptance of HIV testing among older persons due to perceived personal and social identities. HCPs often missed HIV symptoms and these collectively culminated in OPLWH experiencing complex diagnostic journeys resulting in late HIV diagnosis. To reduce delays in HIV diagnosis, strategies are needed to improve HIV knowledge and risk perception among both older adults and HCPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoi Yee Wong
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Reena Rajasuriar
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Pui Li Wong
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yew Kong Lee
- Department of Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Ratnasingam J, Niyaz M, Mariyappan S, Ong T, Chan SP, Hew FL, Yeap SS, Velaiutham S, Thambiah SC, Lekamwasam S. Age-dependent FRAX-based assessment and intervention thresholds for therapeutic decision making in osteoporosis in the Malaysian population. Arch Osteoporos 2024; 19:18. [PMID: 38503995 DOI: 10.1007/s11657-024-01371-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Fracture risk stratification is crucial in countries with limited access to bone density measurement. 24.8% women were in the high-risk category while 30.4% were in the low-risk category. In the intermediate risk group, after recalculation of fracture risk with bone density, 38.3% required treatment. In more than half, treatment decisions can be made without bone density. PURPOSE We aimed to examine the role of age-dependent intervention thresholds (ITs) applied to the Fracture Risk Assessment (FRAX) tool in therapeutic decision making for osteoporosis in the Malaysian population. METHODS Data were collated from 1380 treatment-naïve postmenopausal women aged 40-85 years who underwent bone mineral density (BMD) measurements for clinical reasons. Age-dependent ITs, for both major osteoporotic fracture (MOF) and hip fracture (HF), were calculated considering a woman with a BMI of 25 kg/m2, aged between 40 and 85years, with a prior fragility fracture, sans other clinical risk factors. Those with fracture probabilities equal to or above upper assessment thresholds (UATs) were considered to have high fracture risk. Those below the lower assessment thresholds (LATs) were considered to have low fracture risk. RESULTS The ITs of MOF and HF ranged from 0.7 to 18% and 0.2 to 8%, between 40 and 85years. The LATs of MOF ranged from 0.3 to 11%, while those of HF ranged from 0.1 to 5.2%. The UATs of MOF and HF were 0.8 to 21.6% and 0.2 to 9.6%, respectively. In this study, 24.8% women were in the high-risk category while 30.4% were in the low-risk category. Of the 44.8% (n=618) in the intermediate risk group, after recalculation of fracture risk with BMD input, 38.3% (237/618) were above the ITs while the rest (n=381, 61.7%) were below the ITs. Judged by the Youden Index, 11.5% MOF probability which was associated with a sensitivity of 0.62 and specificity of 0.83 and 4.0% HF probability associated with a sensitivity of 0.63 and a specificity 0.82 were found to be the most appropriate fixed ITs in this analysis. CONCLUSION Less than half of the study population (44.8%) required BMD for osteoporosis management when age-specific assessment thresholds were applied. Therefore, in more than half, therapeutic decisions can be made without BMD based on these assessment thresholds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mariyam Niyaz
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Shanmugam Mariyappan
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Terence Ong
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Siew Pheng Chan
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Fen Lee Hew
- Puchong Specialist Clinic, Puchong, Malaysia
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Oh AL, Makmor-Bakry M, Islahudin F, Ting CY, Chan SK, Tie ST. Characteristics, predictors and consequences of tuberculosis treatment interruption: A multicentre retrospective cohort study. Trop Med Int Health 2024. [PMID: 38470004 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Treatment interruption is associated with poor tuberculosis (TB) treatment outcomes and increased drug resistance. To address the issue, we aimed to investigate the characteristics, predictors and consequences of treatment interruption. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study by retrieving 4 years (2018-2021) of TB patients' records at 10 public health clinics in Sarawak, Malaysia. Adult patients (≥18 years) with drug-susceptible TB were selected. Treatment interruption was defined as ≥2 weeks of cumulative interruption during treatment. The Chi-square test, Mann-Whitney U test, Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards regression were used to analyse the data, with p < 0.05 being considered statistically significant. RESULTS Out of 2953 eligible patients, 475 (16.1%) experienced TB treatment interruption. Interruptions were most frequent during the intensive phase (46.9%, n = 223), with the greatest risk within the first 4 weeks of treatment. The median time to interruption was 2 weeks in the intensive phase and the cumulative interruption probability at the end of the intensive phase was 12.9%. Notably, treatment interruption occurred during both intensive and continuation phases for 144 patients (30.3%), while the remaining 108 (22.7%) experienced interruptions only during the continuation phase with a median time to interruption of 16 weeks. Three predictors were identified to increase the risk of treatment interruption: adverse drug reaction (aHR = 8.53, 95% Cl: 6.73-10.82), smoking (aHR = 2.67, 95% Cl: 2.03-3.53) and illicit drug use (aHR = 1.88, 95% Cl: 1.03-3.45). Conversely, underlying diabetes was associated with a reduced likelihood of treatment interruption (aHR = 0.72, 95% Cl: 0.58-0.90). Treatment interruption led to significant differences in treatment restarts (62.3% vs. 0.7%), changes in medications (47.8% vs. 4.9%), prolonged treatment duration (247 days [IQR = 105] vs. 194 days [IQR = 44.3]) and lower successful outcomes (86.5% vs. 99.9%). CONCLUSION Understanding the temporal characteristics, predictors and negative consequences of treatment interruption can guide the development of time-relevant approaches to mitigate the problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ai Ling Oh
- Centre of Quality Management of Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacy, Sarawak General Hospital, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Makmor-Bakry
- Centre of Quality Management of Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Farida Islahudin
- Centre of Quality Management of Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chuo Yew Ting
- Department of Sarawak State Health, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Swee Kim Chan
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Sarawak General Hospital, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Siew Teck Tie
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Sarawak General Hospital, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
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Ng RJ, Choo WY, Ng CW, Hairi NN. Effect of supplementary private health insurance on out-of-pocket inpatient medical expenditure: evidence from Malaysia. Health Policy Plan 2024; 39:268-280. [PMID: 38300142 PMCID: PMC10939357 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czae004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The vital role of healthcare financing in achieving universal health coverage is indisputable. However, most countries, including Malaysia, face challenges in establishing an equitable and sustainable healthcare financing system due to escalating healthcare costs, an ageing population and a growing disease burden. With desirable pre-payment and risk pooling features, private health insurance (PHI) is considered an alternative financing option to reduce out-of-pocket (OOP) medical expenditure. However, ongoing theoretical and empirical debates persist regarding the adequacy of financial risk protection provided by PHI largely because it depends on its role, the benefit design and the regulations in place. Our study aimed to investigate the effect of supplementary PHI on OOP inpatient medical expenditure in Malaysia. Secondary data analysis was conducted using the Malaysian National Health and Morbidity Survey 2019 dataset. A total of 983 respondents with a history of inpatient hospitalization in the past 12 months were included in the study. Instrumental variable analysis using a two-stage residual inclusion was performed to address endogeneity bias, with wealth status and education level as the instrumental variables. Tobit regression model was used in the second stage considering the censored distribution of the outcome variable. Missing data were handled using multiple imputation. About one-fifth of the respondents had PHI. In this study, we found that having PHI significantly increased OOP inpatient medical expenditure in all three marginal effects. Additionally, age, residential location, ethnicity (citizenship), being covered by government guarantee letter, government funding and employer-sponsored health insurance were other significant factors associated with OOP inpatient medical expenditure. Our findings undermine a key justification to advocate PHI uptake among the population, with a need for the Malaysian government to reassess the role of PHI in healthcare financing and reconsider PHI subsidization policy. Regulations should also be strengthened to enhance the financial risk protection provided by PHI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Jie Ng
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Level 5, Block I, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Wan Yuen Choo
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Level 5, Block I, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Chiu-Wan Ng
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Level 5, Block I, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Noran Naqiah Hairi
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Level 5, Block I, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
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Elsisi GH, Joe AY, Zain MM, Yusoof HM, Teh CL, Mohd AB, Khor XT, Isa LBM. Economic burden of systemic lupus erythematosus in Malaysia. J Med Econ 2024; 27:46-55. [PMID: 38468479 DOI: 10.1080/13696998.2024.2316537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Our cost-of-illness (COI) model adopted the perspective of both payer and society over a time horizon of 5 years to measure the economic burden of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in Malaysia. METHODOLOGY Our COI model utilized a prevalence-based model to estimate the costs and economic consequences of SLE in Malaysia. The clinical parameters were obtained from published literature and validated using the Delphi panel. Direct and indirect medical costs were measured, including disease management, transient events, and indirect costs. One-way sensitivity analysis was also performed. RESULTS The number of target Malaysian patients with SLE in the COI model was 18,121. At diagnosis, the numbers of SLE patients with mild, moderate, and severe phenotypes were 2,582, 13,897, and 1,642, respectively. The total SLE cost in Malaysia over 5 years from both payer and society perspectives was estimated at MYR 678 million and 2 billion, respectively. The results showed a considerable cost burden due to productivity losses resulting from SLE-related morbidity and mortality. Over a 5-year time horizon, the costs per patient per year from the payer and society perspectives were MYR 7,484 ($4766) and 24,281($15,465), respectively. CONCLUSION Our study demonstrated the substantial economic burden of SLE in Malaysia over a time horizon of 5 years. It affects adults of working age, in addition to the costs of SLE management and its consequences, such as flares, infection, and organ damage. Our COI model indicated that disease management costs among patients with higher disease severity were higher than those among patients with a mild phenotype. Hence, more attetion should be paid to limiting the progression of SLE and the occurrence of flares, with the need for further economic evaluation of novel treatments that could lead to better outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gihan Hamdy Elsisi
- HTA Office, LLC, Cairo, Egypt
- Health Economics, Faculty of Economics, American University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ang Yu Joe
- Selayang Hospital, Lebuhraya Selayang - Kepong, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | | | - Cheng Lay Teh
- Hospital Umum Sarawak, Jalan Hospital, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Asmah Binti Mohd
- Tuanku Ja'afar Hospital, Jalan Rasah, Bukit Rasah, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
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Jayaraj VJ, Husin M, Suah JL, Tok PSK, Omar A, Rampal S, Sivasampu S. Effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines among children 6-11 years against hospitalization during Omicron predominance in Malaysia. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5690. [PMID: 38454077 PMCID: PMC10920657 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55899-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
There is currently limited data on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines for children aged 6-11 years in Malaysia. This study aims to determine vaccine effectiveness (VE) against COVID-19-related hospitalization after receipt of one- and two-doses of BNT162b2 mRNA (Comirnaty-Pfizer/BioNTech) vaccine over a duration of almost 1 year in the predominantly Omicron period of BA.4/BA.5 and X.B.B sub lineages. This study linked administrative databases between May 2022 and March 2023 to evaluate real-world vaccine effectiveness (VE) for the BNT162b2 mRNA (Comirnaty-Pfizer/BioNTech) vaccine against COVID-19-related hospitalization in the Omicron pre-dominant period with BA.4/BA.5 and X.B.B sub lineages. During the Omicron-predominant period, the cumulative hospitalization rate was almost two times higher for unvaccinated children (9.6 per million population) compared to vaccinated children (6 per million population). The estimated VE against COVID-19 hospitalization for one dose of BNT162b2 was 27% (95% CI - 1%, 47%) and 38% (95% CI 27%, 48%) for two doses. The estimated VE against hospitalization remained stable when stratified by time. VE for the first 90 days was estimated to be 45% (95% CI 33, 55%), followed by 47% (95% CI 34, 56%) between 90 and 180 days, and 36% (95% CI 22, 45%) between 180 and 360 days. Recent infection within 6 months does not appear to modify the impact of vaccination on the risk of hospitalization, subject to the caveat of potential underestimation. In our pediatric population, BNT162b2 provided moderate-non-diminishing protection against COVID-19 hospitalization over almost 1 year of Omicron predominance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Jason Jayaraj
- Sector for Biostatistics & Data Repository, National Institutes of Health, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Masliyana Husin
- Institute for Clinical Research, National Institutes of Health, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Jing Lian Suah
- Data, Analytics and Research, Central Bank of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Peter Seah Keng Tok
- Institute for Clinical Research, National Institutes of Health, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Azahadi Omar
- Sector for Biostatistics & Data Repository, National Institutes of Health, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Sanjay Rampal
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Practice, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sheamini Sivasampu
- Institute for Clinical Research, National Institutes of Health, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
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14
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Ghouri AM, Bhatti MA, Juhari AS. Editorial: Employment sustainability and teaching/learning techniques in higher education institutions. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1373916. [PMID: 38515963 PMCID: PMC10955051 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1373916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ariff Syah Juhari
- College of Business Administration, Prince Sultan University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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15
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Jafar A, Dollah R, Sakke N, Mapa MT, Atang C, Joko EP, Sarjono F, Zakaria NS, George F, Vun Hung C. Public Perception Toward the Malaysian National COVID-19 Immunisation Programme (PICK) in the State of Sabah, Malaysia: A Cross-Sectional Survey. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2024; 18:e43. [PMID: 38450457 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2024.31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
The Malaysian Government has initiated the National COVID-19 Immunisation Programme, known as PICK, to be a national strategy for addressing the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic across the country. Although the government intensified public awareness to increase program registration, the total number that registered in the state of Sabah, located in East Malaysia, was relatively low during August 2021, accounting for only 42.9% as compared to that of Peninsular Malaysia. Therefore, this paper examines the public perception toward the PICK program in Sabah based on 4 main components: safety, communication, psychology, and milieu. This study is based on the empirical findings drawn from 1024 respondents across Sabah using online Google Form surveys. This study adopts 5 methodologies for data analysis by using K-means clustering, mean score, Mann-Whitney U test, spatial analysis, and frequency analysis. It has been revealed that the percentage of respondents (categorized as Cluster 1) who have a negative perception toward the vaccination program is higher (55.9%) than those who have a positive perception (44.1%). This study further discovered that Cluster 1 has shown high skepticism regarding the vaccination program, which can be explained through the communication component (M = 3.33, SD = 0.588), especially Co2, Co3, Co1, and Co4. Following the communication factor, a chain of negative perceptions also affects other components such as safety, psychology, and milieu among Cluster 1, all of which contribute to poor participation in the PICK program. The study outcomes are extremely useful for informing local authorities to establish policies related to public interests, primarily in the areas of public health. Understanding the community's perspectives and their obstacles in participating in such programs may assist local authorities in developing or implementing public policies and campaigns that ensure such related public programs can be conducted more effectively in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adi Jafar
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88400, Malaysia
| | - Ramli Dollah
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88400, Malaysia
| | - Nordin Sakke
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88400, Malaysia
| | - Mohammad Tahir Mapa
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88400, Malaysia
| | - Colonius Atang
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88400, Malaysia
| | - Eko Prayitno Joko
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88400, Malaysia
| | - Fauzie Sarjono
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88400, Malaysia
| | - Noor Syakirah Zakaria
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88400, Malaysia
| | - Fionna George
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88400, Malaysia
| | - Chong Vun Hung
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88400, Malaysia
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Yasin RM, Tan MP, Said MA, Rasul MS, Thangiah N, Rizal H, Magli AS, Ithnin M, Majid HA, Ismail R, Su TT. TVET programme and health-related quality of life among low-income populations during the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1164056. [PMID: 38504686 PMCID: PMC10948447 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1164056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Education improves the economy and quality of life. The availability of skilled education in Malaysia is not restricted to the younger generation but is available to people of all ages, including those with low incomes. Methods This study used the EuroQol 5-Dimension 5-Level (EQ- 5D-5L) tool during the COVID-19 pandemic to examine relationships between socio-demographics, knowledge, and attitudes towards education and outcomes of health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Between September and October 2020 and January and February 2021, a cross-sectional study using a multi-stage sampling technique was carried out. Results A total of 1,997 adults participated, with a mean age of 45.17 (SD 14.113). In total, 74.9% had good knowledge, while 59.8% had a positive attitude towards skill education. In univariate analyses, the EQ-5D-5L score was related to age, income, education level, marital status, employment status, financial strain level, and knowledge and attitude towards skilled education. Generalised linear model analyses demonstrated that lower EQ-5D-5L scores were associated with older age, financial constraints, and a negative attitude towards skills education. However, additional adjustments for knowledge and attitude towards skills education show only an increase in age and financial strain was significant. Conclusion The findings suggest that appropriate strategies be implemented to increase low-income populations' knowledge and attitude towards skill education. Improving education may improve the quality of life for this vulnerable group. Additionally, a qualitative study can be conducted to determine the barriers to low-income households participating in skilled education to fill in the knowledge gap.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maw Pin Tan
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mas Ayu Said
- Centre for Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Practice, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Sattar Rasul
- STEM Enculturation Research Center, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
| | - Nithiah Thangiah
- Centre for Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Practice, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Population Health, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hussein Rizal
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Population Health, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Muslimah Ithnin
- School of Health Sciences, KPJ Healthcare University, Nilai, Malaysia
| | - Hazreen Abdul Majid
- Centre for Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Practice, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Population Health, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences, AECC University College, Bournemouth, United Kingdom
| | - Rozmi Ismail
- Psychology and Human Wellbeing Research Centre, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
| | - Tin Tin Su
- South East Asia Community Observatory (SEACO) and Global Public Health, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
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17
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Thangaveloo A, Dorasamy M, Bin Ahmad AA, Marimuthu SB, Jayabalan J. Corporate governance and shareholders' confidence in cooperatives: a systematic literature review. F1000Res 2024; 11:144. [PMID: 38434005 PMCID: PMC10905109 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.73317.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The confidence of Bottom 40 (B40) shareholders is crucial for cooperative's sustenance within wider corporate governance. An in-depth study on cooperatives is needed, as they play a crucial role in the Malaysian economic system and contribute greatly to the country's social development. However, in the current landscape, confidence among shareholders is at stake. This study aims to identify the research gap into corporate governance for cooperativess in relation to B40 shareholder confidence, as well as identify current study challenges and develop a conceptual framework for future research. Methods We conducted a systematic literature review, with the use of agency theory to assess shareholders' confidence. Emerald, ProQuest, InderScience, Scopus and Science Direct were the online databases used in this study to search five keyword phrases: corporate governance, confidence, cooperative, agency theory and Bottom 40% (B40) household. Tranfield's five stages were used to conduct the systematic review. Results Only 5 of the 324 studies assess shareholders' confidence in cooperatives, as well as one paper on B40 and two papers on agency theory. Our review presents three major findings. First, research in the context of B40 shareholder's confidence in cooperatives is scarce. Second, the challenges related to shareholders' confidence in B40 are major issues in the context. Third, research on agency theory in the context of shareholders' confidence within cooperatives and corporate governance is still scant. Conclusions This review urges the research community to conduct more studies based on the highlighted research gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arasu Thangaveloo
- VNK Bersatu Resources Sdn Bhd, Klang, Selangor, 41200, Malaysia
- Faculty of Management, Multimedia University, Cyberjaya, Selangor, 63100, Malaysia
| | - Magiswary Dorasamy
- Faculty of Management, Multimedia University, Cyberjaya, Selangor, 63100, Malaysia
| | - Abdul Aziz Bin Ahmad
- Faculty of Management, Multimedia University, Cyberjaya, Selangor, 63100, Malaysia
| | | | - Jayamalathi Jayabalan
- Faculty of Management, Multimedia University, Cyberjaya, Selangor, 63100, Malaysia
- Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kajang, Selangor, 43000, Malaysia
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18
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Ng SH, Babar MG, Ahmed SI, Hasan SS, Yang WY. Measuring empathic behaviour among undergraduate dietetics students. J Eval Clin Pract 2024; 30:153-161. [PMID: 37641432 DOI: 10.1111/jep.13913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
AIM Empathic behaviour has a direct link to the positive clinical outcomes. Health professionals, which include dietitians, are increasingly expected to demonstrate the impact of their care on patient outcomes. To date, there is limited research exploring the empathic behaviour of dietetics students. METHODS This cross-sectional study evaluated the psychometric properties of Jefferson Scale of Empathy-Healthcare Provider Student (JSE-HPS) and empathic behaviour of dietetics students. RESULTS Undergraduate dietetics students from one private and two public universities in Malaysia participated (n = 455). Item and scale psychometric properties were examined using principal component analysis and differences in mean empathy scores for students were assessed across years of study and types of universities. A 3-factor solution emerged in the results, accounting for 26.76%, 10.75% and 6.3% of the variance. The JSE-HPS demonstrated good internal consistency (α = 0.83). Despite students enroled at public universities scoring higher mean empathy scores than students enroled at the private university, the difference was not significant. The only significant difference was between the empathy level of first and third year students (p = 0.033). CONCLUSION As empathy underpins patient-centred management in the nutrition care process, it should be well integrated into curriculum delivery so that appropriate levels of empathy can be developed to prepare work-ready healthcare professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi Hui Ng
- School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Muneer Gohar Babar
- Clinical Oral Health Sciences Division, School of Dentistry, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Syed Imran Ahmed
- School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Science, University of Lincoln, UK
| | | | - Wai Yew Yang
- Division of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Health Sciences, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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19
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Arushothy R, Mohd Ali MR, Zambri HF, Muthu V, Hashim R, Chieng S, Nathan S. Assessing the national antibiotic surveillance data to identify burden for melioidosis in Malaysia. IJID Reg 2024; 10:94-99. [PMID: 38179416 PMCID: PMC10764260 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2023.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Objectives A leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Southeast Asia, the epidemiological data on melioidosis disease occurrence and mortality in Malaysia is not comprehensive. The aim of this study is to determine the burden of melioidosis and assess the National Surveillance for Antibiotic Resistance (NSAR) data as a potential tool melioidosis surveilance in Malaysia. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis on the B. pseudomallei reposited data submitted to the NSAR network between January 2014 and December 2020. The data were screened for information on patient demographics and specimen types. Additional patient comorbidities and outcomes were drawn from parallel surveillance for bacteremic melioidosis. Results The average annual incidence rate of melioidosis between 2014-2020 was 3.41 per 100,000 population and was significantly different between states (P <0.001). The highest incidence was observed in Pahang at 11.33 per 100,000 population. Individuals of Malay ethnicity, from the states of Pahang, Johor, Perak, and Negeri Sembilan aged 40-49, who were diabetic and working in agriculture-related sectors had a higher risk of succumbing to the infection. Conclusion Assessing the NSAR data proved to be a useful tool for the determination of the incidence and socio-demographic risk factors attributed to melioidosis in Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Revathy Arushothy
- Institute for Medical Research, National Institutes of Health, Shah Alam, Malaysia
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
| | | | - Hana Farizah Zambri
- Institute for Medical Research, National Institutes of Health, Shah Alam, Malaysia
| | - Vickneshwaran Muthu
- Disease Control Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Federal Government Administrative Centre, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Rohaidah Hashim
- Institute for Medical Research, National Institutes of Health, Shah Alam, Malaysia
| | - Sylvia Chieng
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
| | - Sheila Nathan
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
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Dong WS, Ismailluddin A, Yun LS, Ariffin EH, Saengsupavanich C, Abdul Maulud KN, Ramli MZ, Miskon MF, Jeofry MH, Mohamed J, Mohd FA, Hamzah SB, Yunus K. The impact of climate change on coastal erosion in Southeast Asia and the compelling need to establish robust adaptation strategies. Heliyon 2024; 10:e25609. [PMID: 38375273 PMCID: PMC10875370 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e25609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Climate change alters the climate condition and ocean environment, leading to accelerated coastal erosion and a shift in the coastline shape. From previous studies, Southeast Asia's coastal region is suffering from severe coastal erosion. It is most sensitive and vulnerable to climate change, has broad and densely populated coastlines, and is under ecological pressure. Efforts to systematically review these studies are still insufficient despite many studies on the climate change linked to coastal erosion, the correlation between coastal erosion and coastal communities, and the adaptative measures to address these issues and their effectiveness in Southeast Asia. Therefore, by analyzing the existing literature, the purpose of this review was to bridge the knowledge gap and identify the link between climate change and coastal erosion in Southeast Asia in terms of sea-level rise, storm surge, and monsoon patterns. The RepOrting standards for Systematic Evidence Syntheses (ROSES) guided the study protocol, including articles from the Scopus and Dimension databases. There were five main themes considered: 1) climate change impact, 2) contributing factors to coastal erosion, 3) coastal erosion impact on coastal communities, 4) adaptation measure and 5) effectiveness of adaptation measure using thematical analysis. Subsequently, nine sub-themes were produced from the themes. Generally, in Southeast Asia, coastal erosion was reflected by the rising sea level. Throughout reviewing past literature, an interesting result was explored. Storm surges also had the potential to affect coastal erosion due to alterations of the atmospheric system and seasonal monsoon as the result of climate change. Meanwhile, an assessment of current erosion control strategies in relation to the relative hydrodynamic trend was required to avoid the failure of defence structures and the resulting danger to coastal communities. Systematically reviewing the existing literature was critical, hence it could significantly contribute to the body of knowledge. It provides valuable information for interested parties, such as authorities, the public, researchers, and environmentalists, while comprehending existing adaptation practices. This kind of review could strategize adaptation and natural resource management in line with coastal communities' needs, abilities, and capabilities in response to environmental and other change forms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan Shiao Dong
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Aminah Ismailluddin
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Lee Shin Yun
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Effi Helmy Ariffin
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
- Institute of Oceanography and Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Cherdvong Saengsupavanich
- Faculty of International Maritime Studies, Kasetsart University, Sri Racha Campus, 199 Moo 6 Sukhumvit Rd., Tungsukla, Sri Racha, Chonburi, 20230, Thailand
| | - Khairul Nizam Abdul Maulud
- Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering & Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600, UKM, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
- Earth Observation Centre, Institute of Climate Change, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600, UKM, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Zahir Ramli
- Institute of Oceanography & Maritime Studies, Kulliyyah of Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, 25200, Kuantan, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Fuad Miskon
- Institute of Oceanography & Maritime Studies, Kulliyyah of Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, 25200, Kuantan, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Hafeez Jeofry
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Juliana Mohamed
- Kulliyyah of Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan Campus, Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
| | - Fazly Amri Mohd
- Centre of Studies for Surveying Science & Geomatics, Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Perlis, 02600, Arau, Perlis, Malaysia
| | - Saiful Bahri Hamzah
- National Water Research Institute of Malaysia, Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, 43300, Seri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Kamaruzzaman Yunus
- Kulliyyah of Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan Campus, Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
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Munian K, Ramli FF, Othman N, Mahyudin NAA, Sariyati NH, Abdullah-Fauzi NAF, Haris H, Ilham-Norhakim ML, Abdul-Latiff MAB. Environmental DNA metabarcoding of freshwater fish in Malaysian tropical rivers using short-read nanopore sequencing as a potential biomonitoring tool. Mol Ecol Resour 2024:e13936. [PMID: 38419264 DOI: 10.1111/1755-0998.13936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The approach of combining cost-effective nanopore sequencing and emerging environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding could prove to be a promising tool for biodiversity documentation, especially in Malaysia. Given the substantial funding constraints in recent years, especially in relation to the country's biodiversity, many researchers have been limited to conduct restricted research without extended monitoring periods, potentially hindering comprehensive surveys and could compromise the conservation efforts. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the application of eDNA metabarcoding on freshwater fish using short reads generated through nanopore sequencing. This assessment focused on species detection in three selected rivers within the Endau Rompin Landscape in Malaysia. Additionally, the study compared levels of species detection between eDNA metabarcoding and conventional sampling methods, examined the effectiveness of primer choice, and applied both metabarcoding and shotgun sequencing to the eDNA approach. We successfully identified a total of 22 and 71 species with an identification threshold of >97% and >90%, respectively, through the MinION platform. The eDNA metabarcoding approach detected over 13% more freshwater fish species than when the conventional method was used. Notably, the distinction in freshwater fish detection between eDNA primers for 12S rRNA and cytochrome oxidase I was insignificant. The cost for eDNA metabarcoding proved to be more effective compared to conventional sampling with cost reduction at 33.4%. With favourable cost-effectiveness and increased species detection, eDNA metabarcoding could complement existing methods, enhance holistic diversity documentation for targeted habitats and facilitate effective conservation planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaviarasu Munian
- Environmental Management and Conservation Research Unit (eNCORe), Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (Pagoh Campus), Muar, Johor, Malaysia
- Zoology Branch, Forest Biodiversity Division, Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM), Kepong, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Farah Farhana Ramli
- Environmental Management and Conservation Research Unit (eNCORe), Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (Pagoh Campus), Muar, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Nursyuhada Othman
- Environmental Management and Conservation Research Unit (eNCORe), Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (Pagoh Campus), Muar, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Nur Aina Amira Mahyudin
- Zoology Branch, Forest Biodiversity Division, Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM), Kepong, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nur Hartini Sariyati
- Environmental Management and Conservation Research Unit (eNCORe), Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (Pagoh Campus), Muar, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Nurfatiha Akmal Fawwazah Abdullah-Fauzi
- Environmental Management and Conservation Research Unit (eNCORe), Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (Pagoh Campus), Muar, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Hidayah Haris
- Environmental Management and Conservation Research Unit (eNCORe), Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (Pagoh Campus), Muar, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Lokman Ilham-Norhakim
- Environmental Management and Conservation Research Unit (eNCORe), Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (Pagoh Campus), Muar, Johor, Malaysia
- Kim Ichthyologist Centre, Kg Parit Samsu, Jalan Temenggong Ahmad, Parit Jawa, Muar, Johor, Malaysia
- Akim Fishes Enterprise, Muar, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Abu Bakar Abdul-Latiff
- Environmental Management and Conservation Research Unit (eNCORe), Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (Pagoh Campus), Muar, Johor, Malaysia
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Ibrahim AH, Harun MS. Applying the Concepts of Benefit and Harm in Malaysian Bioethical Discourse: Analysis of Malaysian Fatwa. J Bioeth Inq 2024:10.1007/s11673-024-10345-z. [PMID: 38407763 DOI: 10.1007/s11673-024-10345-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Rapid developments in science and technology have resulted in novel discoveries, leading to new questions particularly related to human values and ethics. Every discovery and technology has positive and negative implications and affects human lives either directly or indirectly, involving all walks of life. Bioethical discourse in Malaysia must consider the multiracial and multireligious background of Malaysia and especially the Islamic view as the majority of Malaysians are Muslims and Islam is the religion of the federation. This article discusses several selected bioethical issues in Malaysia by studying the application of maṣlaḥah (the public good) and mafsadah (evil and harms) in Malaysian Islamic rulings (fatwas). This article uses the critical interpretation approach, as this is an ethical, interpretive, textual, and contextual analysis. In a situation when there is a conflict between maṣlaḥah and avoidance of mafsadah, it is preferred to attempt to address both needs. However, if maṣlaḥah and avoidance of mafsadah are mutually exclusive, the decision to choose must be made by weighing (tarjīḥ) and choosing the one which is superior. The maṣlaḥah and mafsadah concepts play vital and significant roles in bioethical discourse to realize human essential interests, namely faith, life, lineage, intellect, and property, thus achieving maqāṣid al-sharī'ah (the ultimate goal of sharia). This concept helps in guiding bioethical discussions, especially in determining the priority between achieving benefits and avoiding harms. The application of this concept will also assist Malaysian authorities in formulating appropriate rulings, especially bioethical issues related to Malaysian Muslims' lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Halim Ibrahim
- Programme of Applied Science with Islamic Studies, Academy of Islamic Studies, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Muhammad Safwan Harun
- Department Fiqh and Usul, Academy of Islamic Studies, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Ramachandram DS, Tan CH, Selvaraj A, Appalasamy JR, Kow CS. The workload and satisfaction of pharmacists and pharmacy assistants after installation of an automated tablet dispensing and packaging system in a tertiary university hospital in Malaysia. Int J Pharm Pract 2024; 32:100-103. [PMID: 38029419 DOI: 10.1093/ijpp/riad085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine the impact of pharmacy automation on the workload and satisfaction of pharmacists and pharmacy assistants in an inpatient setting. METHODS This was an observational, cross-sectional survey using a convenience sampling method conducted at the University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) In-Patient Pharmacy. A validated online questionnaire assessed user satisfaction and task duration. RESULTS A total of 21 pharmacists and 18 pharmacy assistants participated in the survey. Most pharmacists (n = 17/21) were confident in the system, and both pharmacists and pharmacy assistants perceived it to be beneficial for patients (n = 33/39) and for reducing medication errors (n = 32/39). Pharmacy assistants spent approximately 5.34 hours on traditional work including filling medication orders (1.44 hours) after automated tablet dispensing and packaging system (ATDPS) implementation. Pharmacists spent 1.19 hours filling medication orders and 1.71 hours checking/verifying them, in contrast. CONCLUSION Pharmacists focused mainly on clinical duties with healthcare colleagues, while pharmacy assistants handled various medication orders. Nevertheless, ATDPS reduced pharmacy staff workload in medication handling, achieving user satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Sangarran Ramachandram
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya, 47500 Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ching Hooi Tan
- Department of Pharmacy, University Malaya Medical Centre, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Amutha Selvaraj
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya, 47500 Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Jamuna Rani Appalasamy
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya, 47500 Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Chia Siang Kow
- School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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McKenzie BL, Mustapha FI, Battumur BE, Batsaikhan E, Chandran A, Michael V, Webster J, Trieu K. Strengthening national salt reduction strategies using multiple methods process evaluations: case studies from Malaysia and Mongolia. Public Health Nutr 2024; 27:e89. [PMID: 38343162 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980023002781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand the extent to which national salt reduction strategies in Malaysia and Mongolia were implemented and achieving their intended outcomes. DESIGN Multiple methods process evaluations conducted at the mid-point of strategy implementation, guided by theoretical frameworks. SETTING Malaysia (2018-2019) and Mongolia (2020-2021). PARTICIPANTS Desk-based reviews of related documents, interviews with key stakeholders (n 12 Malaysia, n 10 Mongolia), focus group discussions with health professionals in Malaysia (n 43) and health provider surveys in Mongolia (n 12). RESULTS Both countries generated high-quality local evidence about salt intake and levels in foods and culturally specific education resources. In Malaysia, education and reformulation activities were delivered with moderate dose (quantity) but reach among the population was low. Within 5 years, Mongolia implemented education among schools, health professionals and food producers on salt reduction with high reach, but with moderate dose (quantity) and reach among the general population. Both countries faced challenges in implementing legislative interventions (mandatory salt labelling and salt limits in packaged foods) and both could improve the scaling up of their reformulation and education activities. CONCLUSIONS In the first half of Malaysia's and Mongolia's strategies, both countries generated necessary evidence and education materials, mobilised health professionals to deliver salt reduction education and achieved small-scale reformulation in foods. Both subsequently should focus on implementing regulatory policies and achieving population-wide reach and impact. Process evaluations of existing salt reduction strategies can help strengthen intervention delivery, aiding achievement of WHO's 30 % reduction in salt intake by 2025 target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Briar L McKenzie
- The George Institute for Global Health, UNSW, Level 18, International Towers 3, 300 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo, NSW2000, Australia
| | | | | | - Enkhtungalag Batsaikhan
- Department of Nutrition Research of the National Center for Public Health, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Arunah Chandran
- Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia
| | - Viola Michael
- Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia
| | - Jacqui Webster
- The George Institute for Global Health, UNSW, Level 18, International Towers 3, 300 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo, NSW2000, Australia
| | - Kathy Trieu
- The George Institute for Global Health, UNSW, Level 18, International Towers 3, 300 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo, NSW2000, Australia
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Sharif R, Ooi TC. Understanding exposomes and its relation with cancer risk in Malaysia based on epidemiological evidence: a narrative review. Genes Environ 2024; 46:5. [PMID: 38326915 PMCID: PMC10851543 DOI: 10.1186/s41021-024-00300-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of cancer is increasing globally, and Malaysia is no exception. The exposome represents a paradigm shift in cancer research, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach that considers the cumulative effect of diverse exposures encountered throughout life. The exposures include dietary factors, air and water pollutants, occupational hazards, lifestyle choices, infectious agents and social determinants of health. The exposome concept acknowledges that each individual's cancer risk is shaped by not only their genetic makeup but also their unique life experiences and environmental interactions. This comprehensive review was conducted by systematically searching scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar, by using the keywords "exposomes (environmental exposures AND/OR physical exposures AND/OR chemical exposures) AND cancer risk AND Malaysia", for relevant articles published between 2010 and 2023. Articles addressing the relationship between exposomes and cancer risk in the Malaysian population were critically evaluated and summarized. This review aims to provide an update on the epidemiological evidence linking exposomes with cancer risk in Malaysia. This review will provide an update for current findings and research in Malaysia related to identified exposomes-omics interaction and gap in research area related to the subject matter. Understanding the interplay between complex exposomes and carcinogenesis holds the potential to unveil novel preventive strategies that may be beneficial for public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razinah Sharif
- Centre of Healthy Ageing and Wellness, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia.
| | - Theng Choon Ooi
- Centre of Healthy Ageing and Wellness, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
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Gani AH, Saleh NA, Selvam SB, Azwa I. Prevalence, risk factors and treatment outcomes of syphilis among people living with human immunodeficiency virus at primary care clinics in Malaysia: A retrospective study. Malays Fam Physician 2024; 19:13. [PMID: 38496768 PMCID: PMC10944645 DOI: 10.51866/oa.471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Syphilis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coinfection is a common clinical problem with a significant rising trend worldwide. In Malaysia, the burden of care is shared between hospitals and primary care clinics. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of syphilis among people living with HIV (PLHIV) at primary care clinics in Malaysia and assess its association with sociodemographic characteristics, risk factors and treatment outcomes. Methods This retrospective study included 750 PLHIV aged ≥18 years who attended primary care clinics in three different locations in Malaysia from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2019. Data were obtained from the patients' clinical notes using a structured questionnaire evaluating the sociodemographic characteristics, history of sexual and lifestyle behaviours, diagnosis and management. Results The patients' age ranged from 18 to 78 years (mean=34.7, standard deviation=10.2). The prevalence of syphilis among the PLHIV at the three primary care clinics was 33.8% (n=254). Syphilis was significantly associated with gender (P=0.038) as well as sexual activity (P<0.001), substance use (P=0.038), history of chemsex (P=0.001) and history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) (P<0.001) within the past 12 months. The majority of the PLHIV with syphilis received treatment at the primary care clinics (n=248, 97.3%), and up to 96.1% (n=245) had completed such treatment. Conclusion Syphilis is prevalent among PLHIV at primary care clinics, and most patients receive standard treatment. Therefore, primary care doctors must enhance their knowledge to effectively manage STIs, especially syphilis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Hafiz Gani
- MBBS, MFamMed, MRCGP, MSc, CMID, Klinik Kesihatan Mahmoodiah, Jalan Mahmoodiah, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia.
| | - Narul Aida Saleh
- MBBS, MFamMed, Klinik Kesihatan Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sheela Bai Selvam
- MBBS, MFamMed, Klinik Kesihatan Cheras, Jalan Yaacob Latiff, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Iskandar Azwa
- MBChB, FRCP, Dip GUM, Dip HIV, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Alwi AR, Mahat NA, Mohd Salleh F, Ishar SM, Kamaluddin MR, A Rashid MR, Syed Hassan SNRK. Genetic diversity and forensic statistical support for the 12 X-STR markers in the Malaysian Indian population using Qiagen Investigator® Argus X-12 QS kit. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2024; 68:102416. [PMID: 38325234 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2024.102416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
X-chromosome short tandem repeats (X-STRs) are useful for human identification, especially in complex kinship scenarios. Since forensic statistical parameters vary among populations and the X-STRs population data for the diverse population of Peninsular Malaysia's are unavailable, this attempt for Indians (n = 201) appears forensically relevant to support the 12 X-STRs markers' evidential value for human identification in Malaysia. The Qiagen Investigator® Argus X-12 QS kit showed that DXS10135 was the most polymorphic locus with high genetic diversity, polymorphism information richness, heterozygosity, and exclusion power. Based on allele frequencies, the strength of discrimination and mean exclusion chance (MECKrüger, MECKishida, MECDesmarais, and MECDesmaraisDuo) values for the Malaysian Indians were ≥0.999997790686228. As for haplotype frequencies, the overall discrimination power and mean exclusion probability (MECKrüger, MECKishida, MECDesmarais, and MECDesmaraisDuo) were ≥0.9999984801951. The genetic distance, neighbor-joining phylogenetic tree, and principal component analysis also supported the evidential value of the 12 X-STRs markers for forensic practical caseworks in Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aedrianee Reeza Alwi
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), 81310 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia; Department of Chemistry Malaysia Johor State, Jalan Abdul Samad, 80100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia.
| | - Naji Arafat Mahat
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), 81310 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia; Investigative and Forensic Sciences Research Group, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), 81310 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia; Centre for Sustainable Nanomaterials, Ibnu Sina Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), 81310 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia; Centre of Research for Fiqh Forensics and Judiciary, Faculty of Syariah and Law, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), Bandar Baru Nilai, 71800 Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia.
| | - Faezah Mohd Salleh
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), 81310 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia; Investigative and Forensic Sciences Research Group, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), 81310 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia.
| | - Seri Mirianti Ishar
- Forensic Science Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Mohammad Rahim Kamaluddin
- Psychology and Human Well Being Research Centre, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Mohd Radzniwan A Rashid
- Family Medicine Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), Bandar Baru Nilai, 71800 Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia.
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Lapchmanan LM, Hussin DA, Mahat NA, Ng AH, Bani NH, Hisham S, Teh WS, A Aziz MA, Maniam S, Dollah P, Hasbullah NA, Manimaran S, Hassan H, Zulkernain F. Developing criteria for a profession to be considered as profession of allied health in Malaysia: a qualitative study from the Malaysian perspective. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:165. [PMID: 38308291 PMCID: PMC10835829 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10569-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Malaysian Allied Health Profession Act (Act 774) regulates the practice of allied health practitioners in Malaysia, with two described professions viz. allied health profession (AHP) and profession of allied health (PAH). While AHPs have been clearly identified by the law, comprehensive implementation of the act requires development of specific criteria in defining any profession as PAH in the Malaysian context. Hence, the research aims to explore and identify the criteria for defining such professions for healthcare policy direction in Malaysia. METHODS This research utilised two methods of qualitative research (document review and focus group discussions (FGDs) involving 25 participants from four stakeholders (higher education providers, employers, associations and regulatory bodies). Both deductive and inductive thematic content analysis were used to explore, develop and define emergent codes, examined along with existing knowledge on the subject matter. RESULTS Sixteen codes emerged from the FGDs, with risk of harm, set of competency and skills, formal qualification, defined scope of practice, relevant training and professional working within the healthcare team being the six most frequent codes. The frequencies for these six codes were 62, 46, 40, 37, 36 and 18, correspondingly. The risk of harm towards patients was directly or indirectly involved with patient handling and also relates to the potential harms that may implicate the practitioners themselves in performing their responsibilities as the important criterion highlighted in the present research, followed by set of competency and skills. CONCLUSIONS For defining the PAH in Malaysia, the emerged criteria appear interrelated and co-exist in milieu, especially for the risk of harm and set of competency and skills, with no single criterion that can define PAH fully. Hence, the integration of all the empirically identified criteria must be considered to adequately define the PAH. As such, the findings must be duly considered by policymakers in performing suitable consolidation of healthcare governance to formulate the appropriate regulations and policies for promoting the enhanced framework of allied health practitioners in Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Duratul Ain Hussin
- Allied Health Sciences Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Naji Arafat Mahat
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- Centre for Sustainable Nanomaterials, Ibnu Sina Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- Centre of Research for Fiqh Forensics and Judiciary, Faculty of Syariah and Law, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
| | - Aik Hao Ng
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala, Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nurul Huda Bani
- Audiology Unit, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Cheras Rehabilitation Hospital, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Salina Hisham
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Hospital Sultan Idris Shah Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Wai Siew Teh
- Nutrition Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Azmarul A Aziz
- School of Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Saravanakumar Maniam
- Allied Health Sciences Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Pauzilah Dollah
- Allied Health Sciences Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Nur Atiqah Hasbullah
- Allied Health Sciences Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Salini Manimaran
- Allied Health Sciences Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Hazirah Hassan
- Allied Health Sciences Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Farina Zulkernain
- Allied Health Sciences Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
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Waris M, Din BH. Role of the government towards stock markets and carbon emissions: evidence from wavelet approach. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2024; 31:11285-11306. [PMID: 38217822 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-31843-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
The government of any country can play a great role in promoting economic and environmental policy reforms in both normal and crisis periods, but during the crisis period, the role of the government should take the economy into a recovery position. The stock market is the backbone of the financial system that needs the government's attention, especially in the period of financial stress and environmental protection is the responsibility of every economy to live in a healthy environment. Combining this motive, this study analyzed the role of the government towards the stock market and carbon emission by using different approaches, including the wavelet approach, OLS regression, and the Granger causality test. The wavelet approach is useful for analyzing the role of the government at different time intervals by using the time horizon from 1993 to 2021. World governance's six indicators in terms of voice and accountability, control of corruption, rules of law, regulatory quality, political stability, and government effectiveness are used as the proxy for the role of the government. Our findings show that all WGI indicators have a positive relationship with the stock market of Malaysia except voice and accountability while concerning voice and accountability, the role of the government of Malaysia is negative on the stock market. Similarly, our findings also show that the effective government governance mechanism through WGI indicators has a significant positive impact on CO2 emission due to industrialization. Furthermore, findings of the Granger causality test reveal that all the WGI indicators cause to stock market of Malaysia, and political stability has bi-directional causality indicating stock market index is also a factor that caused the political stability within Malaysia. In the Granger causality results of the CO2 and WGI indicators, there is unidirectional causality found between rules of law and regulatory quality with CO2 emission. This study advocated strong implementations for the investors for investment decisions in effective governance countries and implications for the government to remove their weakness by making effective governance related to the economy and as well as the environments within the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Waris
- Ghazali Shafie Graduate School of Government, Universiti Utara, Sintok, Malaysia.
| | - Badariah Haji Din
- Ghazali Shafie Graduate School of Government, Universiti Utara, Sintok, Malaysia
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30
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Isamail N, Said R, Ismail NW, Haron SA. Non-Communicable Diseases Impact Low-Income Households in Malaysia. Malays J Med Sci 2024; 31:124-139. [PMID: 38456101 PMCID: PMC10917592 DOI: 10.21315/mjms2024.31.1.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have a vast and rising impact on households at all income levels across the globe, particularly with poorer people bearing the burden. Hence, this study examines NCDs' effects on Malaysia's B40 group (low-income earners). Methods This study used the 2015 National Health and Morbidity Survey, a population-based cross-sectional survey with 18,616 respondents from B40 households in Malaysia. Logistic regression analysis is used to assess NCDs' influence on poverty. Results In 2015, more than 20% of the B40 households lived below the poverty level. In addition, the B40 households had a greater prevalence of NCDs, with almost half of them diagnosed with at least one NCD (47.32%); hypertension (9.90%), diabetes mellitus (17.12%) and hypercholesterolemia (22.89%). Households with a member having an NCD are more likely to experience poverty than those without NCDs. The results also suggested that B40 households with catastrophic payments were at a 25% threshold; the elderly, individuals without formal education and unpaid workers were more likely to experience poverty. Conclusion The findings suggest that NCDs increase the likelihood of B40 households falling into poverty. These facts highlight the necessity of safeguarding B40 households from the financial burden of NCDs by creating more effective financial protection plans for Malaysia's low-income earners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norfatihah Isamail
- School of Business and Economics, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Rusmawati Said
- Office of Deputy Dean (Thesis, Student Affairs and Media), School of Gradute Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Normaz Wana Ismail
- Office of Deputy Dean (Research, Funding, Corporate and Community Linkages), UPM School of Business and Economics, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Sharifah Azizah Haron
- Department of Resource Management and Consumer Studies, Faculty of Human Ecology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
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Bhatti Z, Laghari M, Khan AH, Talpur BA, Sulaiman SAS. Assessment of osteoporosis knowledge and its determinants among tuberculosis patients in tertiary care hospital Malaysia: A prospective study. J Clin Tuberc Other Mycobact Dis 2024; 34:100416. [PMID: 38318334 PMCID: PMC10839438 DOI: 10.1016/j.jctube.2024.100416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Osteoporosis self-care knowledge is essential to encourage the patient's contribution towards controlling the disease. Osteoporosis incidence with various infectious diseases prompts us to conduct a study on osteoporosis knowledge among Tuberculosis (TB) patients. This study aimed to assess osteoporosis-related knowledge and its influencing factors among TB patients. Methods A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in the TB clinic of Hospital Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, and an osteoporosis knowledge test (OKT), a structured questionnaire, was used to collect data. TB patients aged 18 years and above with compromised bone health were included in the present study. Overall knowledge scores were dichotomized, calculating the mean score, descriptive statistics, and multivariate regression analysis was used to determine the influence of risk factors on knowledge scores. Results Of 337 patients, 129(38.28 %) had good osteoporosis knowledge and 208(61.72 %) had poor knowledge. Among them, 231(68.54 %) were males, and 106(31.45 %) were females, with a mean age of 46.5 ± 17.1 years. The mean ± SD of OKT total score was 10.5 ± 2.0. The mean ± SD of the exercise knowledge score was 5.3 ± 3.4, while the nutrition knowledge score was 5.0 ± 3.2. Male gender (OR 3.86, 95 % CI 1.98-7.53), low-income level (OR 1.92, 95 % CI 1.12-3.30), rural residents (OR 2.49, 95 % CI 1.46-4.27) and participants with no formal education (OR 4.34, 95 % CI 1.11-16.84) or ≤12 years of education (OR 3.63, 95 % CI 1.52-8.65) were significantly responsible for poor OKT score. Conclusion The results indicated that most TB patients had a poor perception of osteoporosis. More extensive strategies should be developed to enhance the campaign of awareness programs among TB patients to improve preventive measures of osteoporosis, such as calcium intake and exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohra Bhatti
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Kulliyyah of Pharmacy, International Islamic University, Malaysia
| | - Madeeha Laghari
- School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science, University College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Amer Hayat Khan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Malaysia
| | - Bandeh Ali Talpur
- School of Computer Science ans Statistics, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
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Ching SM, Singh R, Azmi FSB, Chong KL, Ong CRS, Ayob NAB, Patil M, Lee KW, Ramachandran V, Arora V. Prevalence and factors associated with probable obstructive sleep apnea among patients with hypertension in two primary care clinics in Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia. Ir J Med Sci 2024; 193:375-382. [PMID: 37204559 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-023-03397-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has been increasingly recognized as an important factor contributing to medical morbidity and mortality. It was reported that more than half of the population with hypertension had OSA. Limited studies have been done on assessing OSA in hypertensive patients. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, socio-demographic characteristics, and factors associated with probable OSA in hypertensive patients in primary care clinics in Sarawak. METHODS A cross-sectional study was carried out using a systematic random sampling method in hypertensive patients who attended two government primary care clinics in Sarawak. The STOP-Bang questionnaire was used to screen for OSA, and social-demographic data was captured with a questionnaire. Multiple logistic regressions were used to examine the determinants of the OSA. RESULTS A total of 410 patients were enrolled in this study. The mean age of study population patients was 56.4 years, with more than half being female. The mean blood pressure was 136/82. The prevalence of probable OSA among patients with hypertension was 54.4%. According to multiple logistic regression analyses, smoking (odds ratio [OR] 14.37, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.335-61.947), retirees (OR 3.20, 95% CI 1.675-6.113), and being Chinese (OR 2.21, 95% CI 1.262-3.863) had a significant positive association with probable OSA. CONCLUSIONS Because of the high prevalence of probable OSA among patients with hypertension, primary care physicians should be more vigilant in identifying hypertensive patients with OSA risk. Early detection and intervention would reduce disease complications and healthcare costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siew Mooi Ching
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia.
- Malaysian Research Institute On Ageing, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia.
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Healthcare and Medical Sciences, Sunway University, Jalan University, Bandar Sunway, 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
| | - Rajvinder Singh
- Klinik Dr Mahinder Singh, Taman Melawati, , Ulu Klang, Selangor, 53100, Malaysia
| | | | - Khian Lu Chong
- Klinik Kesihatan Bandar Miri, Miri, 98800, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Cynthia Ruey Shyuan Ong
- Universiti Putra Malaysia Teaching Hospital, Persiaran Mardi-UPM, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nur Afiqah Binti Ayob
- Klinik Kesihatan Tudan, Jalan Tudan Permyjaya, 98100, Lutong Miri Lutong, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Mansi Patil
- Asha Kiran Hospital Lamtaput, Koraput, Odisha, 764081, India
| | - Kai Wei Lee
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Vasudevan Ramachandran
- Department of Medical and Science Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University College MAIWP International, Taman Batu Muda, 68100 Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, India
| | - Viresh Arora
- Department of ENT, Sandwell and West Birmingham, NHS Hospital Trust, Sandwell General Hospital, West Bromwich, UK
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Yeo JJP, Yeo LS, Tan SSN, Delailah DDRA, Lee SWH, Hu ATH, Foo DHP, Sahiran F, Yap IKS, Fong AYY. Prevalence of true resistant hypertension in those referred for uncontrolled hypertension in Malaysia: A comparison using different definitions. Hypertens Res 2024; 47:352-357. [PMID: 37673957 DOI: 10.1038/s41440-023-01418-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Resistant hypertension is a well-recognised clinical challenge. However, the definition and epidemiology of true resistant hypertension (RH) are less understood, especially in Asia. This cross-sectional study examined the prevalence of RH referred from primary care clinics based on various guidelines. RH was defined as blood pressure (BP) being above the threshold using ambulatory blood pressure monitoring despite adequate lifestyle measures and optimal treatment with ≥3 medications at maximally tolerated doses. Between one in four (n = 94, 24.0% using Malaysian guidelines) and up to two-thirds (n = 249, 63.7% using 2018 American guidelines) of adults referred for uncontrolled hypertension met the criteria of true RH. Of those with RH, a further one-quarter (n = 26, 26.6%) were deemed to have refractory hypertension (elevated BP despite treatment with at least 5 antihypertensive medications). Adults with RH were generally younger, more likely to be male, had a higher BMI and were more likely to have gout, CKD, and angina compared to those with controlled hypertension. The prevalence of RH amongst Asian adults with poor hypertension control is high. A concerted effort is needed to reduce the high burden of RH, especially among this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Jui Ping Yeo
- Clinical Research Center, Institute for Clinical Research, Sarawak General Hospital, Kuching, Malaysia
| | - Leh Siang Yeo
- Clinical Research Center, Institute for Clinical Research, Sarawak General Hospital, Kuching, Malaysia
| | - Shirley Siang Ning Tan
- Clinical Research Center, Institute for Clinical Research, Sarawak General Hospital, Kuching, Malaysia
| | | | | | - Anna Ting Huey Hu
- Clinical Research Center, Institute for Clinical Research, Sarawak General Hospital, Kuching, Malaysia
| | - Diana Hui Ping Foo
- Clinical Research Center, Institute for Clinical Research, Sarawak General Hospital, Kuching, Malaysia
| | - Faiz Sahiran
- Klinik Kesihatan Petra Jaya, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | | | - Alan Yean Yip Fong
- Clinical Research Center, Institute for Clinical Research, Sarawak General Hospital, Kuching, Malaysia.
- Department of Cardiology, Sarawak Heart Center, Kota Samarahan, Malaysia.
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Isah Tsamiya R, Mohd Nafi SN, Che Jalil NA, Mat Zin AA. The Clinicopathological Characteristics of Young-Onset Versus Adult-Onset Colorectal Cancer: A Tertiary Hospital-Based Study. Malays J Med Sci 2024; 31:200-211. [PMID: 38456100 PMCID: PMC10917589 DOI: 10.21315/mjms2024.31.1.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence of colorectal cancer (CRC) among young individuals is rising worldwide, especially in Malaysia. Investigations are currently employed to distinguish the features of young-onset CRC (YOCRC) from adult-onset CRC (AOCRC). This study aimed to compare the characteristics of patients with YOCRC and AOCRC diagnosed at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia (HUSM). Methods This was a retrospective study of CRC cases from January 2013 to December 2021. The details of YOCRC (< 50 years old) and AOCRC (≥ 50 years old) patients were retrieved from the laboratory system and medical records. The Pearson's chi-square test, Fisher's exact test and multiple logistic regression were used to compare the AOCRC and YOCRC cases. Statistical significance was defined at a P-value of ≤ 0.05. Results The AOCRC (254/319, 79.6%) was more prevalent than YOCRC (65/319, 20.4%), with a predominance of males (53.9%) and Malay sub-population (90.2%). AOCRC and YOCRC shared similarities in left-sided location, high occurrence of adenocarcinoma with moderately differentiated histology and advanced stage of diagnosis. More patients with YOCRC (23.1%) had a family history of cancer than patients with AOCRC. YOCRC also differed from AOCRC by having more specific histological subtypes, such as mucinous adenocarcinoma (15.4%) and signet ring carcinoma (6.2%). In addition, patients with YOCRC commonly presented with a low density of tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) (60%). Multiple logistic regression showed a family history of CRC (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 3.75, P = 0.003) and histological type (AOR = 15.21, P < 0.001) are more likely to cause YOCRC than diabetes (AOR = 0.06, P < 0.001) and hypertension (AOR = 0.14, P < 0.001) comorbidities, which are associated with AOCRC. Conclusion Our descriptive study presented the epidemiological and histopathological characteristics of AOCRC and YOCRC in HUSM, providing current information on distinguishing features between the groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rilwanu Isah Tsamiya
- Department of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Siti Norasikin Mohd Nafi
- Department of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Nur Asyilla Che Jalil
- Department of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
- Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Anani Aila Mat Zin
- Department of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
- Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
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Ulaganathan V, Lye MS, Loh SP, Yap YY, Kandiah M, Augundhooa D, Bhattacharya T, Al-Olayan E, Wang C. Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Is Inversely Associated with Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: A Hospital-Based Matched Case-Control Study in Malaysia. Nutrients 2024; 16:397. [PMID: 38337681 PMCID: PMC10857213 DOI: 10.3390/nu16030397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Serum 25(OH)D deficiency consistently demonstrated molecular mechanisms through which chronic inflammation is associated with the risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). This study aimed to determine the association between serum 25(OH)D and NPC. A matched case-control study was conducted at two local hospitals. A total of 300 histologically confirmed NPC cases were matched with controls for age, gender, and ethnicity, and assessed for vitamin D status and other nutritional factors. Mean Vitamin D concentration was significantly lower among cases compared to controls (63.17 ± 19.15 nmol/L and 67.34 ± 23.06 nmol/L) (t = -2.41, p = 0.016). Multiple conditional logistic regression analysis indicated that higher levels of serum 25(OH)D were associated with reduced odds of NPC (AOR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.57-0.94, p = 0.016) controlling for confounders including BMI, physical activity, smoking status, alcohol consumption, consumption of food high in vitamin D, salted fish consumption, and family history of NPC. There was a significant association between inadequate serum 25(OH)D status with accumulation of four risk factors and increased odds of getting NPC using polynomial regression analysis. Increased NPC odds ratios were observed after sequential accumulation of additional risk factors with the presence of inadequate serum 25(OH)D status (OR = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.27, 4.77, p = 0.322, OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 0.64, 1.72, p = 0.267, OR = 1.15, 95% CI = 0.73, 1.80, p = 0.067, OR = 1.93, 95% CI = 1.13, 3.31, p = 0.022, and OR = 5.55, 95% CI = 1.67, 10.3, p < 0.001 respectively). Future research in Malaysia should involve both prospective cohort studies and randomized controlled trials to confirm and further clarify the role of vitamin D in NPC outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaidehi Ulaganathan
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Applied Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur 43000, Malaysia; (M.K.); (D.A.)
| | - Munn Sann Lye
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Su Peng Loh
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Yoke Yeow Yap
- Graduate School of Medicine, KPJ Healthcare University, Nilai 71800, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia;
- Otorhinolaryngology, KPJ Johor Specialist Hospital, Johor Bharu 80100, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Mirnalini Kandiah
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Applied Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur 43000, Malaysia; (M.K.); (D.A.)
| | - Digsha Augundhooa
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Applied Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur 43000, Malaysia; (M.K.); (D.A.)
| | - Tanima Bhattacharya
- Faculty of Applied Science, Lincoln University College, Petaling Jaya 47301, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Ebtesam Al-Olayan
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Chuanyi Wang
- School of Environment Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi’an 710021, China;
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Lee YF, Lai WH, Lee PY, Ting SCY, Nuja IA, Ngian HU, Wang J. Acceptability and tolerability of alcohol-based hand rubs among health workers and concessionaires in Malaysia during the COVID pandemic: a hospital-wide cross-sectional study using a modified WHO protocol. Int J Environ Health Res 2024:1-14. [PMID: 38287203 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2024.2309324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
This study evaluated the acceptability and tolerability of three alcohol-based hand rubs (ABHRs) at Sarawak General Hospital, Malaysia. Conducted from 12-26 November 2021 using a modified WHO Protocol, it involved a survey among health workers and concessionaires, with a 35% response rate (1,598 of 4,628 participants). The majority were nurses (60.8%), with the medical division most represented (28.4%). Most respondents (93.2%) used ABHRs at least five days a week and found them easily accessible (72.3%). Product B was the preferred ABHR (65%), primarily for its color and fragrance, surpassing WHO's 50% approval rate in these aspects. However, no other product features met WHO criteria. There were no significant differences in self-reported skin tolerability across the products, and none achieved overall WHO approval. These results offer important insights for ABHR selection in developing countries and highlight the value of the WHO Protocol in assessing product acceptability and tolerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yew Fong Lee
- Sarawak General Hospital, Ministry of Health, Kuching, Malaysia
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Wei Hong Lai
- Clinical Research Centre, Sarawak General Hospital, Ministry of Health, Kuching, Malaysia
| | - Peh Yee Lee
- Infection Prevention and Control Unit, Sarawak General Hospital, Ministry of Health, Kuching, Malaysia
| | - Samual Chuo Yew Ting
- Pharmaceutical Services Division, Sarawak State Health Department, Ministry of Health, Kuching, Malaysia
| | - Irena Albert Nuja
- Infection Prevention and Control Unit, Sarawak General Hospital, Ministry of Health, Kuching, Malaysia
| | - Hie Ung Ngian
- Hospital Director's Office, Sarawak General Hospital, Ministry of Health, Kuching, Malaysia
| | - Jiancong Wang
- Institute of Biometry and Epidemiology, The German Diabetes Center, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Cham CQ, Ibrahim N, Kalaman CR, Ho MC, Visvalingam U, Ahmad Shahabuddin F, Abd Rahman FN, Halim MRTA, Harbajan Singh MK, Azhar FL, Yahya AN, Roslan S, Siau CS. Factors associated with depression, anxiety, and satisfaction with life among Malaysian parental caregivers of adolescent psychiatric patients: A cross-sectional study. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2024; 11:e12. [PMID: 38390253 PMCID: PMC10882176 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2024.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Depression and anxiety are prevalent mental health issues worldwide, especially among parental caregivers. By expanding the family stress model, this cross-sectional study investigated the relevant factors associated with depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and satisfaction with life among Malaysian parental caregivers of adolescent psychiatric patients. Data were collected through questionnaires (N = 207) across five major public hospitals through convenience sampling. Participants answered questionnaires measuring financial strain, caregiver burden, relationship quality, belief in mental illness, perceived COVID-19 stress, satisfaction with health services, depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms and life satisfaction. Findings revealed that relationship quality among spouses, COVID-19 stress and caregiver burden were significantly correlated with anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms and satisfaction with life. The multiple regression model also suggested that depressive symptoms (β = .613, p < .001), anxiety symptoms (β= .657, p < .001) and relationship quality among spouses (β = .264, p < .001) were the most influential predictors of anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms and satisfaction with life respectively. By addressing the mental health needs of parental caregivers, this study can contribute to improving the overall quality of care and support provided to adolescent patients and their caregivers in Malaysia and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Choy Qing Cham
- Center for Healthy Ageing and Wellness (H-CARE), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Norhayati Ibrahim
- Center for Healthy Ageing and Wellness (H-CARE), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Institute of Islam Hadhari, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
| | - Clarisse Roswini Kalaman
- Center for Healthy Ageing and Wellness (H-CARE), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Meng Chuan Ho
- Centre for Pre-U Studies, UCSI University (Springhill Campus), Port Dickson, Malaysia
| | - Uma Visvalingam
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hospital Sungai Buloh, Sungai Buloh, Malaysia
| | | | - Fairuz Nazri Abd Rahman
- Psychiatry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Radzi Tarmizi A Halim
- Faculty of Business, Economics and Social Development, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Malaysia
| | | | - Fatin Liyana Azhar
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Amira Najiha Yahya
- Department of Educational Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Education, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Samsilah Roslan
- Department of Foundation of Education, Faculty of Educational Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Ching Sin Siau
- Center for Community Health Studies (ReaCH), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Utap MS, Ng CJ, Lee YK, Kiyu A. Prevalence Trend and Clinical Profile of Leprosy Among the Indigenous Penan Community in Rural Baram, Sarawak, Malaysia: A Retrospective Study. Asia Pac J Public Health 2024:10105395241227507. [PMID: 38258742 DOI: 10.1177/10105395241227507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
In Malaysia, despite achieving leprosy-elimination status in 1994, leprosy remains a public health issue among the indigenous Penan community in Sarawak. This study aims to determine the prevalence trend and clinical profile of leprosy among the Penans in rural Baram, Sarawak, Malaysia. A retrospective records review was conducted on 10-year (2008-2018) time trend of annual prevalence rate and 5-year (2013-2018) Penan leprosy patient clinical profile. Out of the 257 new cases of leprosy reported in Sarawak, 42.8% were Penans, and 72.7% were from Baram. The annual Penan ethnic-specific prevalence rate ranged from 2.08 to 35.5/10 000. Forty-six cases were analyzed for clinical profile: There were more males, active case detection, and multibacillary leprosy. The prevalence trend of leprosy among the Penans in rural Baram exceeds recommended elimination targets. Majority of the cases were detected through active case detection, but cases were detected late. Interventions are needed to improve early diagnosis and detection to achieve elimination of leprosy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chirk Jenn Ng
- SingHealth Polyclinics, Singapore
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore
| | - Yew Kong Lee
- Department of Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Andrew Kiyu
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, University Malaysia Sarawak, Kota Samarahan, Malaysia
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Ho WY, Neelamegam M, Earnshaw VA, Chong V, Lee HG, Rajasuriar R. Poor HIV-related Knowledge, Perceived Risks and Attitudes Among Urban-dwelling Malaysian Older Adults: Key Barriers to Zero HIV Transmission by 2030. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04272-8. [PMID: 38261221 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04272-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Globally and in Malaysia, there are increasing rates of HIV infection among older adults but a corresponding decline in other younger age groups. We aimed to investigate the HIV-related knowledge, perceived risks, attitudes, and risk behaviours among multi-ethnic urban-dwelling older adults in Malaysia. A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among 320 adults aged 50 years and above residing in urban Klang Valley, Malaysia. Participants were recruited via convenience sampling in the community and in the outpatient clinics and pharmacy of University Malaya Medical Centre, Malaysia, from April 2021 to January 2022. The median (IQR) age of participants was 58 (55-64) and 42.5% were males. The median (IQR) knowledge score was 10 (8-12) out of 14. Significant knowledge gaps were noted and ethnic Chinese, higher education levels and better HIV-related attitudes were associated with better scores. The median (IQR) attitude score was 49 (41-55) out of 65. Ethnic Chinese and Indian, knowing people living with HIV (PLHIV), and better HIV-related knowledge were associated with better attitude scores. Many (43.8%) older adults were sexually active however rates of consistent condom use was low (19%) and the majority (89.9%) of participants had low self-perceived risk of HIV. These findings highlight underlying drivers for HIV transmission and delayed treatment among older adults in Malaysia and indicate a need for targeted HIV prevention programs for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Ying Ho
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Malinee Neelamegam
- Department of Population and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, USA
| | - Valerie A Earnshaw
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, USA
| | - Vivian Chong
- School of Health Sciences, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hong Gee Lee
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Reena Rajasuriar
- Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia.
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40
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Ababneh BF, Ong SC, Elbarazi I, Aljamal HZ, Hussain R. A qualitative study exploring community pharmacists' awareness, attitudes and perceptions about drive-thru community pharmacy service in Malaysia during COVID-19. J Pharm Policy Pract 2024; 17:2303752. [PMID: 38260172 PMCID: PMC10802799 DOI: 10.1080/20523211.2024.2303752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Drive-thru services are not given sufficient focus in the community pharmacy setting which was highlighted during COVID-19, particularly in Malaysia. This study aimed to explore the community pharmacists' perspectives regarding drive-thru community pharmacy service during COVID-19 in Malaysia. Methods In-depth online semi-structured individual interviews were conducted among 25 community pharmacists working in Malaysia. All interviews were conducted between March 2022 and May 2022 and were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim, and then analysed by thematic analysis. Results Thematic analysis yielded seven major themes, 1-familiarity with drive-thru community pharmacy service during COVID-19, 2-willingness toward this service during COVID-19, 3-perceived benefits toward drive-thru community pharmacy service during COVID-19, 4-perceived disadvantages toward this service, 5-barriers toward drive-thru community pharmacy service, 6-factors affecting the preference toward this service, and 7-facilitators to drive-thru community pharmacy service. Enhancing social distancing and preventing the spread of COVID-19 were the major perceived benefits of this service during COVID-19 as reported by participants. Conclusion Overall, community pharmacists reported positive attitudes toward drive-thru community pharmacy service during COVID-19. However, concerns about poor communication between the pharmacist and the patient, limited counselling, and dispensing errors were acknowledged. These concerns would need to be addressed to improve the provision of drive-thru community pharmacy service.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bayan F. Ababneh
- Discipline of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Siew Chin Ong
- Discipline of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Iffat Elbarazi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Hisham Z. Aljamal
- Discipline of Orthopedics, Dr. Sulaiman AL Habib Medical Group, Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rabia Hussain
- Discipline of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
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Pang SW, Armon S, Chook JB, Chew J, Peh KB, Lim WWD, Peh SC, Teow SY. Association of Fusobacterium nucleatum infection with the clinicopathological characteristics in colorectal cancer patients. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:124. [PMID: 38227097 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-09150-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a global health problem. The gut microbiome is now recognized as an important underlying factor to the initiation and progression of CRC. Fusobacterium nucleatum (FN) is one of the most studied bacteria in the aetiology of CRC. This study provided cohort evidence on the association of FN infection with clinicopathologic features in CRC patients. METHODS We analysed the cancerous and adjacent non-cancerous formalin-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue of 83 CRC patients from a single medical centre in Malaysia. TaqMan probe-based qPCR targeting the 16S rRNA gene was used to detect the presence of FN in the extracted FFPE DNA. The differences in FN expression between cancer and non-cancer tissues were evaluated. Association studies between FN infection in the tumour and relative FN abundance with available clinical data were conducted. RESULTS FN was more abundant in the cancerous tissue compared to non-cancerous tissue (p = 0.0025). FN infection in the tumour was significantly associated with lymph node metastasis (p = 0.047) and cancer staging (p = 0.032), but not with other clinicopathologic variables. In double-positive patients where FN was detected in both cancerous and non-cancerous tissue, the expression fold-change of FN, calculated using 2-ΔΔCT formula, was significantly higher in patients with tumour size equal to or greater than 5 cm (p = 0.033) and in KRAS-mutated patients (p = 0.046). CONCLUSIONS FN is enriched in CRC tumour tissue and is associated with tumour size, lymph node metastasis, cancer staging, and KRAS mutation in this single-centre small cohort study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siew-Wai Pang
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Subang Jaya, 47500, Malaysia
| | - Subasri Armon
- Pathology Department, Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Pahang, Kuala Lumpur, 50586, Malaysia
| | - Jack Bee Chook
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Subang Jaya, 47500, Malaysia
| | - Jactty Chew
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Subang Jaya, 47500, Malaysia
| | - Kaik-Boo Peh
- Mahkota Medical Centre, Mahkota Melaka, Jalan Merdeka, Melaka, 75000, Malaysia
| | - Wendy Wan-Dee Lim
- Sunway Medical Centre, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Subang Jaya, 47500, Malaysia
| | - Suat Cheng Peh
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Subang Jaya, 47500, Malaysia
- Sunway Medical Centre, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Subang Jaya, 47500, Malaysia
| | - Sin-Yeang Teow
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Mathematics and Technology, Wenzhou-Kean University, Ouhai, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325060, China.
- Wenzhou Municipal Key Laboratory for Applied Biomedical and Biopharmaceutical Informatics, Ouhai, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325060, China.
- Zhejiang Bioinformatics International Science and Technology Cooperation Center, Ouhai, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325060, China.
- Dorothy and George Hennings College of Science, Mathematics, and Technology, Kean University, 1000 Morris Ave, Union, NJ, 07083, USA.
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Sahimin N, Low ZX, Hassandarvish P, Mohd Hanapi IR, Mohd Zain SN, Yahaya H, Abu Bakar S. Seroprevalence of dengue and chikungunya viruses among urban refugees in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2024:trad097. [PMID: 38226501 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trad097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mosquito-borne diseases pose a significant global public health threat, with Malaysia's Klang Valley experiencing numerous outbreaks in densely populated urban areas. METHODS This study aimed to estimate the seroprevalence of anti-dengue and anti-chikungunya antibodies among urban refugees in the Klang Valley, Malaysia, and identify associated risk factors. RESULTS High seroprevalence of anti-dengue immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM (60.0% [confidence interval {CI} 55.39 to 64.48] and 9.2% [CI 6.77 to 12.25], respectively) were observed among refugees >18 years of age (χ22=11.720, p=0.003), Kachin ethnicity (χ28=72.253, p<0.001), without formal education (χ21=3.856, p=0.050), homes near waste disposal sites (χ21=10.378, p=0.001) and refugees who have experienced flooding (χ21=5.460, p=0.019). Meanwhile, the overall seroprevalence of anti-chikungunya IgG and IgM was 9.7% (CI 7.15 to 12.73) and 10.8% (CI 8.09 to 13.93), respectively, with ages 12-18 years (χ22=6.075, p=0.048), Rohingya ethnicity (χ28=31.631, p<0.001) and homes close to waste disposal sites (χ21=3.912, p=0.048) being significant risk factors. Results showed a link to poor environmental living conditions, with an increase in the vector population with higher availability of breeding sites and thus exposure to dengue and chikungunya virus. CONCLUSIONS Health education among the community is the key to disease prevention, as there are no specific antiviral drugs for treatment and limited vaccine availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norhidayu Sahimin
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Zhao Xuan Low
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Pouya Hassandarvish
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Izzah Ruzana Mohd Hanapi
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Siti Nursheena Mohd Zain
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hasmawati Yahaya
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sazaly Abu Bakar
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Tae SK, RA M, Thong MK. Case report: The evolving phenotype of ESCO2 spectrum disorder in a 15-year-old Malaysian child. Front Genet 2024; 14:1286489. [PMID: 38288163 PMCID: PMC10822947 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1286489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
ESCO2 spectrum disorder is an autosomal recessive developmental disorder characterized by growth retardation, symmetrical mesomelic limb malformation, and distinctive facies with microcephaly, with a wide phenotypic continuum that ranges from Roberts syndrome (MIM #268300) at the severe end to SC phocomelia (MIM #269000) at the milder end. ESCO2 encodes a 601-amino acid protein belonging to the Eco1/Ctf7 family of acetyltransferases that is involved in the establishment of sister chromatid cohesion, which is essential for accurate chromosome segregation and genomic stability and thus belongs to a group of disorders called "cohesinopathies". We describe a 15-year-old Malaysian female who presented with the characteristic triad of ESCO2 spectrum disorder, with an equivocal chromosomal breakage study and normal karyotyping findings. She was initially suspected to have mosaic Fanconi anemia but whole exome sequencing (WES) showed a likely pathogenic homozygous splice variant c.955 + 2_955+5del in the ESCO2 gene. During the 15-year diagnostic odyssey, she developed type 2 diabetes mellitus, primary ovarian insufficiency, increased optic cup-to-disc ratio with tortuous vessels bilaterally, and an evolving but distinct facial and skin hypopigmentation phenotype. Of note, there was an absence of learning disabilities. Our findings provide further evidence for ESCO2 spectrum disorder in an Asian child and contribute to defining the clinical and radiographic spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sok-Kun Tae
- Genetics and Metabolism Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Genetic Medicine Unit, University of Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mazlan RA
- Genetic Medicine Unit, University of Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Meow-Keong Thong
- Genetics and Metabolism Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Genetic Medicine Unit, University of Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Sundaramurthy SSR, Allen KE, Fletcher MA, Liew KF, Borhanuddin B, Ali M, Morales G, Gessner B, Naidoo J, Southern J. Retrospective database analysis for clinical diagnoses commonly associated with pneumococcal diseases in the Malaysian healthcare system over a 3-year period (2013-2015). BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:79. [PMID: 38216882 PMCID: PMC10790256 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08611-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pneumococcal disease caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae is an important cause of morbidity and mortality across all ages, particularly in younger children and older adults. Here, we describe pneumococcal disease hospitalizations at Ministry of Health (MoH) facilities in Malaysia between 2013 and 2015. METHODS This was a retrospective databases analysis. Tabular data from the Malaysian Health Data Warehouse (MyHDW) were used to identify microbiologically confirmed, pneumococcal disease hospitalizations and deaths during hospitalization, using hospital-assigned ICD-10 codes (i.e., classified as meningitis, pneumonia, or non-meningitis non-pneumonia). Case counts, mortality counts, and case fatality rates were reported by patient age group and by Malaysian geographic region. RESULTS A total of 683 pneumococcal disease hospitalizations were identified from the analysis: 53 pneumococcal meningitis hospitalizations (5 deaths and 48 discharges), 413 pneumococcal pneumonia hospitalizations (24 deaths and 389 discharges), and 205 non-meningitis non-pneumonia pneumococcal disease hospitalizations (58 deaths and 147 discharges). Most hospitalizations occurred in children aged < 2 years. Crude mortality was highest among children aged < 2 years (for all three disease categories), among adults aged ≥ 65 years (for pneumococcal pneumonia), or among adults aged 65-85 years (for non-meningitis non-pneumonia pneumococcal disease). The case fatality rate, all ages included, was 5.8% for pneumococcal pneumonia, 9.1% for pneumococcal meningitis, and 28.3% for non-meningitis non-pneumonia pneumococcal disease. CONCLUSIONS Our study is the first to document pneumococcal disease hospitalizations and deaths during hospitalization in Malaysia. Although this database analysis likely underestimated case counts, and the true disease burden could be even greater, the study demonstrates a substantial burden of pneumococcal disease. Public health measures, including vaccination, would significantly contribute to the prevention of hospitalizations and deaths associated with pneumococcal disease in Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kristen E Allen
- Vaccines Medical and Scientific Affairs, Pfizer Biopharma, Collegeville, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mark A Fletcher
- Emerging Markets Region Medical Affairs, Pfizer Biopharma, New York City, USA
| | | | | | - Mohammad Ali
- Vaccines Medical and Scientific Affairs, Pfizer Biopharma, Collegeville, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Graciela Morales
- Emerging Markets Region Medical Affairs, Pfizer Biopharma, New York City, USA
| | - Bradford Gessner
- Vaccines Medical and Scientific Affairs, Pfizer Biopharma, Collegeville, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jerusha Naidoo
- Emerging Markets Region Medical Affairs, Pfizer Biopharma, New York City, USA
| | - Jo Southern
- Vaccines Medical and Scientific Affairs, Pfizer Biopharma, Collegeville, Pennsylvania, USA
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45
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Boo NY, Ang EL, Ang EBK. Retinopathy of Prematurity in Very Low Birthweight Neonates of Gestation Less Than 32 weeks in Malaysia. Indian J Pediatr 2024:10.1007/s12098-023-04997-9. [PMID: 38200381 DOI: 10.1007/s12098-023-04997-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the screening rates and incidence of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), and risk factors associated with ROP in very low birthweight (VLBW, <1500 g) neonates of gestation <32 wk admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) in a middle-income country. METHODS It was a retrospective cohort study of prospectively submitted data by 44 Malaysian NICUs participating in the Malaysian National Neonatal Registry. All VLBW neonates of gestation <32 wk born in 2015-2020 and survived to discharge were included. RESULTS Of 11768 survivors, 90.5% (n = 10436) had ROP screening; 16.1% (1685/10436) had ROP. ROP was significantly more common in neonates <28 wk gestation (extremely preterm, EPT) than ≥28 wk gestation (37.7% vs. 9.7%; p <0.001), and more common in those with birthweight <1000 g (extremely low birthweight, ELBW) than ≥1000 g (32.9% vs. 9.1%; p <0.001). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the significant independent factors associated with increased risk of ROP were ELBW, EPT, Indian ethnic group, vaginal delivery, mechanical ventilation >5 d, high frequency ventilation, total parenteral nutrition, late-onset sepsis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and intraventricular hemorrhage. Receiving oxygen therapy at birth was associated with significantly lower risk of ROP. CONCLUSIONS The incidence and severity of ROP increased with decreasing gestation and birthweight. Prolonged duration of oxygen therapy, infection, invasive respiratory support, and conditions commonly causing fluctuations of oxygenation were significant factors associated with increased risk of ROP. Receiving oxygen at birth did not increase risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nem Yun Boo
- Department of Population Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Sungai Long, Bandar Sungai Long, Kajang, 43000 Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Ee Lee Ang
- Department of Pediatrics, Tengku Ampuan Rahimah Hospital, Ministry of Health of Malaysia, Klang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Eric Boon-Kuang Ang
- Department of Pediatrics, Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital, Ministry of Health, Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia
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Mohd Hanapi IR, Behnke JM, Sahimin N, Saifulazmi NF, Golam Mohammad Khan ASJ, Abdul Mutalib RNS, Lau YL, Mohd Zain SN. Intestinal parasitic infections and risk analysis among urban refugees in the Klang Valley, Malaysia. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2024; 118:18-32. [PMID: 37497742 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trad047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global studies show intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) have been introduced and spread with refugee inflows from low to high socio-economic countries. However, there is relatively limited information on the prevalence of infections among the community. METHODS A 2-year cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors for infections among urban refugees in the Klang Valley, Malaysia. A total of 418 faecal samples were collected and examined by microscopy. RESULTS Faecal screening revealed moderate levels (32.3%) of infections in the community. Three nematode (Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura and hookworm) and three protozoan species (Entamoeba, Giardia and Cryptosporidium) were recorded, with the highest prevalence being A. lumbricoides (20.6%) followed by T. trichiura (10.3%), while other infections were <5%. Statistical analysis found that young males with less education were more likely to be infected with helminths. Additionally, living near waste disposal sites, the presence of stray animals, eating with bare hands, bare footedness, poor handwashing practices and no anthelmintic treatment constituted significant risk factors for helminth infections. Protozoan infections were linked to drinking tap water or from water dispensers and poor handwashing practices. CONCLUSIONS These findings emphasize the importance of health education in addition to introduction of biannual anthelmintic treatment to promote community health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izzah Ruzana Mohd Hanapi
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jerzy M Behnke
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Norhidayu Sahimin
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nur Fadlin Saifulazmi
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Raisya Nur Syazmeen Abdul Mutalib
- Department of Biomedical Science, Kulliyah of Allied Health Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, 25200 Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
| | - Yee Ling Lau
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Siti Nursheena Mohd Zain
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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47
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Kalidasan V, Theva Das K. Advancing Precision Medicine with Gene and Cell Therapy in Malaysia: Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications. Hum Gene Ther 2024; 35:9-25. [PMID: 38047523 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2023.139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
A new era of gene and cell therapy for treating human diseases has been envisioned for several decades. However, given that the technology can alter any DNA/cell in human beings, it poses specific ethical, legal, and social difficulties in its application. In Malaysia, current bioethics and medical ethics guidelines tackle clinical trials and biomedical research, medical genetic services, and stem cell research/therapy. However, no comprehensive framework and policy is available to cater to ethical gene and cell therapy in the country. Incorporating ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) would be crucial to guide the appropriate use of human gene and cell therapy in conjunction with precision medicine. Policy experts, scientists, bioethicists, and public members must debate the associated ELSI and the professional code of conduct while preserving human rights.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Kalidasan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kepala Batas, Malaysia
| | - Kumitaa Theva Das
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kepala Batas, Malaysia
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Othman NH, Rajali A, Zulkifeli NRN, Shaharuddin IM, Hussein KH, Hassan MIA. Sports-related dental injuries and oral health status among Malaysian para-athletes: A cross-sectional study. Spec Care Dentist 2024; 44:221-230. [PMID: 37055924 DOI: 10.1111/scd.12858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Athletes with disabilities may be at an even greater risk of orofacial trauma than their counterparts, and the risk may vary depending on the type of sports. This study aimed to assess the incidence of sports-related dental injuries and oral health status among Malaysian para-athletes. METHODS A questionnaire survey was conducted to assess self-reported dental injuries and knowledge of their management. An intraoral examination was performed using the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) index following the World Health Organization guidelines. RESULTS A total of 61 para-athletes (men = 90.16%, n = 55; women = 9.84%, n = 6) from different sports categories with different disabilities randomly participated in this study. The incidence of self-reported dental injuries was 18.0% (n = 11), with the most common injury being crown tooth fracture (72.7%) and lip laceration (63.6%). However, the majority of the athletes (70.5%, n = 43) did nothing after experiencing dental trauma, and 82.0% (n = 50) were unaware of the immediate management of dental trauma. Based on the intraoral examination, only 9.8% (n = 6) of the athletes had perfectly sound teeth. The mean total DMFT index was 3.49 ± 2.371, while the mean DMFT index for decayed, missing, and filled teeth was 1.28 ± 1.293, 0.74 ± 0.705, and 1.48 ± 1.120, respectively. The mean DMFT index for decayed, missing, and filled teeth and total DMFT index significantly differed among the types of disabilities (P < .05) but not between the sexes (P > .05). CONCLUSION The most commonly reported injuries among para-athletes are crown tooth fractures and lip lacerations. The total DMFT index among para-athletes is moderate, emphasising the need for improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurul Hanim Othman
- Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
- School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Kubang Kerian, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Aiemeeza Rajali
- Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nik Rahayyu Nik Zulkifeli
- Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Izzati Mohd Shaharuddin
- Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | - Mohamed Ibrahim Abu Hassan
- Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
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Kamaludin IS, How LS, Yee A, Kaai SC, Yan M, Danaee M, Amer Nordin AS, Mohd Hairi F, Ahmad Tajuddin NA, Hasan SI, Quah ACK, Fong GT. Intentions to Quit, Quit Attempts, and the Use of Cessation Aids Among Malaysian Adult Smokers: Findings From the 2020 International Tobacco Control (ITC) Malaysia Survey. Asia Pac J Public Health 2024; 36:69-77. [PMID: 38197364 DOI: 10.1177/10105395231220465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
This study examined quitting behavior and use of cessation aids (CAs) among Malaysian adult smokers aged ≥18 years (n = 1,047). Data were from the 2020 International Tobacco Control (ITC) Malaysia Survey were analyzed. A total of 79.9% of Malaysian smokers attempted to quit in the past 12 months and 85.2% intended to quit in the next 6 months. The most common CAs were e-cigarettes (ECs) (61.4%), medication/nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs; 51.0%), and printed materials (36.7%); the least common CA was infoline/quitline services (8.1%). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to examine the association between sociodemographic variables and CAs use. Male smokers were more likely to use infoline/quitline services (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 3.27; P = .034). Malay smokers were more likely to use infoline/quitline services (aOR = 3.36; P = .002), ECs (aOR = 1.90; P = .004), printed materials (aOR = 1.79; P = .009), and in-person services (aOR = 1.75; P = .043). Most Malaysian smokers wanted to quit smoking. Furthermore, ECs were the most popular CAs, highlighting the need to assess the effectiveness of ECs for quitting smoking in Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ina Sharyn Kamaludin
- Nicotine Addiction Research Collaborating Group, Universiti Malaya Centre for Addiction Science Studies, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Lim Sin How
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Anne Yee
- Nicotine Addiction Research Collaborating Group, Universiti Malaya Centre for Addiction Science Studies, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Susan C Kaai
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Mi Yan
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Mahmoud Danaee
- Nicotine Addiction Research Collaborating Group, Universiti Malaya Centre for Addiction Science Studies, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Amer Siddiq Amer Nordin
- Nicotine Addiction Research Collaborating Group, Universiti Malaya Centre for Addiction Science Studies, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Farizah Mohd Hairi
- Nicotine Addiction Research Collaborating Group, Universiti Malaya Centre for Addiction Science Studies, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nur Amani Ahmad Tajuddin
- Nicotine Addiction Research Collaborating Group, Universiti Malaya Centre for Addiction Science Studies, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Siti Idayu Hasan
- Nicotine Addiction Research Collaborating Group, Universiti Malaya Centre for Addiction Science Studies, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Universiti Malaya Community Engagement Centre, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Anne C K Quah
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Geoffrey T Fong
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
- Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Loong SK, Liam CK, Karunakaran R, Tan KK, Mahfodz NH, AbuBakar S. Non-classical Bordetella sp. (closely related to Bordetella hinzii and Bordetella pseudohinzii) lower respiratory tract infection in a patient with extensive bronchiectasis: a case report. J Int Med Res 2024; 52:3000605231214464. [PMID: 38216150 PMCID: PMC10787532 DOI: 10.1177/03000605231214464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
An increasing number of reports have described the pathogenic nature of several non-classical Bordetella spp. Among them, Bordetella hinzii and Bordetella pseudohinzii have been implicated in a myriad of respiratory-associated infections in humans and animals. We report the isolation of a genetically close relative of B. hinzii and B. pseudohinzii from the sputum of a woman in her early 60s with extensive bronchiectasis who presented with fever and brown colored sputum. The isolate had initially been identified as Bordetella avium by API 20NE, the identification system for non-enteric Gram-negative rod bacteria. Sequencing of the 16S rDNA, ompA, nrdA, and genes used in the Bordetella multilocus sequence typing scheme could not resolve the identity of this Bordetella isolate. Whole-genome single nucleotide polymorphism analysis positioned the isolate between B. hinzii and B. pseudohinzii in the phylogenetic tree, forming a distinct cluster. Whole-genome sequencing enabled the further identification of this rare organism, and should be considered for wider applications, especially the confirmation of organism identity in the clinical diagnostic microbiology laboratory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih Keng Loong
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research & Education Centre, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chong Kin Liam
- Department of Medicine, University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Rina Karunakaran
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kim-Kee Tan
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research & Education Centre, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nur Hidayana Mahfodz
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research & Education Centre, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sazaly AbuBakar
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research & Education Centre, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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