Journal of Ecophysiology and Occupational Health

Economic Importance of Migrant Labor in Kerala

Amal Sivadasan — 2024-03-04

people travel to Kerala each year to work as seasonal labourers. They play a significant part in the growth and survival of Kerala’s economy. Changes in the labour market, increased tax income for the government, and overall economic expansion are connected with worker movement. To examine the current pattern of worker migration and the availability of local workers in rural economies. The researcher selected a descriptive research technique that relied heavily on secondary sources to gain a deeper understanding of this phenomenon. Publications such as books, newspapers, journals, articles, and internet platforms such as blogs and wikis are examples of secondary sources. This article examines the frequency and relevance of migrant workers in the state’s current labour market and the availability of local labour in Kerala’s informal rural labour market. By segmenting the labour market in Kerala by industry, this study will assist in determining the extent to which migrants have affected the state’s economy. The rural Indian labour market has shifted from agriculture to service and industrial industries. The number of persons employed in manufacturing and services is growing yearly, while employment in agriculture is deteriorating. The government is in trouble because poor people are willing to perform physical labour. There was a need for low-cost physical labour in Kerala; therefore, migrant workers from other countries arrived to fill the need. Without the assistance migrant workers give in areas with a severe shortage of local staff, firms would fail.

Perspective View of Stress, Anxiety, and Depression among Pregnant Women: A Review

Rajani Karnwal — 2024-03-04

The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms in pregnant women tends to be most pronounced during the initial trimester and thereafter diminishes over the course of pregnancy, reaching its lowest point during the postpartum phase. This review examines the frequency, determinants, and physiological and psychological consequences of stress, anxiety, and depression during pregnancy. This highlights the need to understand mental health in expectant women and the unique characteristics of anxiety and depression, and also examines the interaction between hormonal, biological, psychological, and environmental components, as well as the potential influence of previous trauma on mental health during pregnancy and the physiological impact of stress on the mother’s body and the development of the fetus, emphasizing the possible outcomes for both the mother and the unborn child. The significance of the psychological consequences of anxiety and depression is underscored, emphasizing the imperative for timely identification and management. The review highlights the need to screen and evaluate stress, anxiety, and depression in expectant mothers, highlighting the necessity for a complete approach to maternal mental healthcare.

The Effect of Task-Oriented Training and Progressive Resisted Exercise on Upper Limb Function and Quality of Life in Chronic Stroke Patients

Radhika Chintamani — 2024-03-04

Introduction: Stroke is defined as a neurological deficit subjected to acute focal injury of the Central Nervous System (CNS) due to vascular cause. The cause may be several embracing cerebral infarctions. Stroke is the third leading cause of death and the most common cause of disability among adults. Many studies have shown that motor impairment is a common factor leading to disability in stroke survivors. Improving the deficient motor power and strategies will reduce motor disability (Task-oriented training is given mainly for improving Functional performance). Need for the Study: Studies have shown a significant effect on motor function post-stroke with several techniques like conventional exercise, Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF), and Brunnstorm techniques. The effect of the treatment was significant because the weak muscles were strengthened, and the tight muscles were relaxed. However, there is a scarcity in the literature related to the effect of task-oriented training on motor performance in subjects with chronic stroke. Hence this study is undertaken. Methods: The study was carried out in the OPD of the College of Physiotherapy- Dayananda Sagar University-Bangalore on a sample size of 40 subjects for 6 months. It was a randomised clinical trial where subjects were split into two groups with task-oriented training and Progressive Resisted Exercises (PRE). The therapy was 30 minutes/session for 5 days /week for 4 weeks. Results: Task-oriented training showed significant changes within the group from pre- and post-trial and between the group effects, thus demonstrating it to be more significant in enhancing motor performance compared to mere strengthening exercises. Conclusion: The current study demonstrates that task oriented training compared to Progressive Resisted Exercises (PRE) works efficiently in improving upper limb functions and quality of life. The improvement in motor performance varied but the Chedoke Arm and Hand Activity Inventory and Stroke Impairment Scale showed quite significant improvement post-rehabilitation with task-oriented training compared to Progressive Resisted Exercise.

Studying Alienation and Depression as a Predictor of Smartphone Addiction Among Adolescents

Nupur Dogra — 2024-03-04

The present study was undertaken to find out about Smartphone Addiction (SA) and its relationship with alienation and depression among adolescents. The descriptive survey method was employed on a sample of 200 adolescents studying in government and self-financed/ private schools in Jammu and Kathua. Data collection instruments were the Smartphone addiction scale (SAS), the Facebook Usage Scale (FUS), the Mental Depression Scale (MDS) and the Alienation Scale (AS). Pearson’s coefficient of correlation was used to find out the relationship between variables. Regression was used to find out the conjoint effect between the variables. The findings reveal that SA is positively and significantly correlated with alienation and depression among adolescents. The results further indicate that alienation and depression would contribute towards the prediction of SA of adolescents both independently as well as conjointly.

Effect of Work-Based Exercise Program Among Industrial Workers having Non-Specific Neck Pain Using ICF Core Set: A Pre-Post Experimental Study

Prashant Naik — 2024-03-04

Unfortunately, there are many causes of neck pain, the most prevalent ones are long periods of sitting, bad workplace ergonomics and keeping an unnatural neck posture. Studies show that small-scale industries lack awareness of and comprehension of ergonomics. Unpredictable schedules, long hours, hazardous workplaces, and all these problems, including inadequate vocational training, may negatively impact employees’ HRQOL and restrict their capacity to take part in and carry out activities. Progressive resisted training, neuromuscular training exercises, stretching, and ergonomic recommendations are all recommended. To enhance the quality of life of industrial workers, fitness programs must be implemented. The aim is to ascertain how a work-based exercise program affects industrial workers with nonspecific neck discomfort in terms of activity limitation and participation restriction. To determine the risk of nonspecific neck discomfort among industrial workers, the RULA scale was administered to 92 individuals in the study who had VAS values ranging from 3-6. Neck ROM was also recorded. An ICF documentation form was used to ascertain the engagement and involvement. Over the course of two weeks, the subjects received a work-based exercise program on alternate days. ROM, RULA, and ICF documentation were among the outcome variables that were assessed both before and after the intervention. The result was that there was a noteworthy distinction noted between the RULA, ROM pretest and post-test scores as well as ICF codes. Differences between the pre and post-test of VAS were significant difference (Z=8.3290, p=0.0001). To conclude the study found that industrial workers lacked knowledge about ergonomics. Therefore, exercises and ergonomics helped manage neck pain and improve the range of motion.

Exploring Effects of Modified Trampoline Training v/s Proprioceptive Training on Balance in Cancer Patients with Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: Randomized Controlled Trial

Manal Anthikat — 2024-03-04

Context: Chemotherapy Treatment-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN), is a significant side effect of anti-neoplastic treatment faced by cancer patients. CIPN results in sensory-motor deficiencies, altered proprioceptive signals, and poor posture control, increasing the risk of fall. Modified trampoline training is a recent rehabilitation method that can stimulate proprioception. However, its effects in cancer patients with CIN remain unexplored. The study’s objective was to examine and compare the effects of Modified Trampoline Training (MTT) and Conventional Proprioception Training (CPT) on balance in cancer patients with CIPN. Study Designs and Settings: This randomized controlled trial was conducted in the tertiary care center, Miraj. Methods: The study included male and female patients aged between 41-60 years, suffering from colorectal cancer who are receiving or have received chemotherapy and were experiencing the symptoms of CIPN. A total of 26 patients were divided into two equal groups. Group A received MTT and Group B received CPT for 3 days/week for 4 weeks. The outcome measure was balance which was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Timed Upand- Go test (TUG). Statistical analysis: The data was analyzed using paired and independent t-tests for within and between groups respectively. Results: Within-group analysis showed statistically significant improvement in all the outcomes for both groups (p<0.01). Between groups, the analysis revealed that the MTT group showed better improvement for BSS (p<0.0) and TUG (p = 0.01) than the control group. Conclusion: The study concluded that MTT is more effective than CPT in improving balance in cancer patients with CIPN.

Length-Weight, Length-Length Relationships and Condition Factor of Crossocheilus diplochilus (Heckel) from Dal Lake of Kashmir Himalayas

Sinan Nissar — 2024-03-04

Length-Length Relationships (LLRs) and Length-Weight Relationships (LWRs) are vital tools in the management of fisheries to facilitate a proper understanding of the condition of fish species and the growth pattern from different environments. Despite numerous studies on LWRs and LLRs of fish species, the majority of those have focused on the food fish creating a lacuna in the biometric assessment studies of forage fish. Against this backdrop, the current work was undertaken to estimate the LLRs, LWRs and condition factor of Crossocheilus diplochilus, a forage fish from Dal Lake of Kashmir Himalayas. The fish was reported to show negative allometric growth, attaining a maximum length of 14.8 cm and a maximum weight of 17.19 g. The overall condition factor was reported to be 0.86 ± 0.10, reflecting a poor condition of growth. The fish forms a vital trophic link of the lake, as such timely biometric studies could help in managing its stock properly.

A Survey-Based Analysis of the Extent of Aluminium Involvement in our Lives for Risk Assessment

Singh Gupta Supriya — 2024-03-04

Despite being a non-essential metal in the body, we acquire aluminium via various sources such as aluminium cookware, foil, medicines, cosmetics, food, water, and aluminium-industries. Though it can be eliminated from our body, the excess and cumulative effect can’t be ignored. Aluminium load above the threshold causes several diseases like Alzheimer’s, osteomalacia, anaemia, and cancer. Hence, the current study was designed to explore the frequency of aluminium usage in various forms in the Indian population of northwest rural and urban regions of Maharashtra and investigate any preferential difference in aluminium usage with occupation, education, income, and family structure. It is a correlational study designed to check the extent of aluminium involvement in their lives and their perception of awareness. A non-random sampling method using social media was utilized for data collection, and data were analyzed using a statistical tool, Jamovi. A survey-based analysis of the responses to a pre-designed questionnaire was done. The prominent factor contributing to the aluminium load was found to be the aluminium vessel used in our kitchen. Boiling, storing, and baking edible items facilitate its leaching into food to toxic levels. Further analysis revealed a significant correlation of financial and educational status with aluminium usage. Reducing aluminium vessel usage for cooking can significantly reduce aluminium load in our bodies. However, we still need to be vigilant about the aluminium load which the other products are imparting upon us. Hence, awareness and exploring the alternatives are the only options to keep a check on the aluminium load.

Prevalence of Upper Cross Syndrome in Multipara Women

Mebin Sojan Thomas — 2024-03-04

Background: Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS) is now a commonly emerging syndrome in the presently existent population. In terms of clinical features, it can be defined as a postural disorder resulting from constriction of the pectoral muscles coupled with weakness of the trapezius and deep neck flexors, leading to forward-facing head stance, rounded shoulders, and kyphosis of the thoracic cavity. Comprehensive documentation of the incidence of this syndrome in multiparous communities is lacking in the literature. As a result, a study was carried out to ascertain the prevalence of UCS in multiparous women. Objective: To determine the prevalence of UCS in multiparous women. Methods: This study was approved by the Ethical Committee and the Protocol Committee (protocol no. 629/2022-2023). The subjects of the prospective cohort study were women who are multiparous and reside in Karad, Maharashtra, India. Using cluster sampling, 76 multiparous participants were included. Assessments were conducted for individuals within the age range of 23 to 58 years, evaluating them based on Craniovertebral Angle (CVA), Forward Head Posture (FHP), pectoralis minor tightness, and deep neck flexor strength. Results: This research looked at 76 participants involved in the study out of which 66.7% were prone to upper cross syndrome. Conclusion: The prevalence of UCS was notably high among multiparous women, with poor posture habits identified as a significant risk factor.

Prevalence of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome in Plumbers

Mohite Vaishnavi — 2024-03-04

Background: Cubital Tunnel Syndrome (CBTS) is a condition when the ulnar nerve is compressed, usually at the elbow level passing behind the humerus’s medial epicondyle. Its prevalence in the plumbing population is unknown. In the population of plumbers, their occupation may put them at increased risk due to the repetitive motions and prolonged use of the elbow joint, thus there is a need to find prevalence of CBTS in plumbers. Material and Methods: In all, 88 plumbers were involved in this cross-sectional study, and everyone was taken for the study according to their age greater than 35 years and having working experience of at least 1 year. A method for diagnosing cubital tunnel syndrome was a patient-rated ulnar nerve evaluation scale. Result: 88 plumbers participated in this cross-sectional survey. 12.5% of the 88 plumbers that were surveyed had Cubital Tunnel Syndrome symptoms. Conclusion: The prevalence of suggestive diagnosis of cubital tunnel syndrome was 12.5% and was higher in plumbers working more than 10 years.

Mental Health of Cancer Patients and their Awareness Regarding Cancer: Exploratory Study in Southern Karnataka

M. R. Mythily — 2024-03-04

Cancers are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with approximately 14 million new cases and 8.2 million cancer-related deaths. Comprehensive patient-centred care in oncology has been prioritized in international guidelines and standards, which includes prevention and early detection, evidence-based medical treatment, rehabilitation and palliative care as a collective approach for reducing morbidity and mortality of cancer. Improving the quality of care requires recognising and addressing patients’ psychological distress, mental disorders and supportive care needs during the treatment of cancer. Knowledge regarding cancer i.e. its warning signs, early detection, management of patients with cancer etc., helps in improving the outcome of cancer patients. This one-year cross-sectional study from 1st February 2022 to 31st January 2023 analyzed the mental health of cancer patients and their awareness regarding cancer among patients who report to the Cancer Centre, in a tertiary care hospital in southern Karnataka. The patients were interviewed using a pre-formed, pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire. Analysis was done using descriptive statistics like percentages, mean, standard deviation, etc., and analytical statistics like chi-square test, student t-test, etc. The awareness regarding various aspects of cancer symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, etc., was poor. Most of the patients are diagnosed with anxiety and depression requiring further counseling and treatment.

Awareness Among Medical Professionals about the Role of Physiotherapists in Patients with Chronic Renal Failure

Patil Akanksha — 2024-03-04

Background: Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) is a significant health issue that has impacted millions of adults and elderly individuals. CRF arises from numerous miscellaneous conditions that irreversibly alter the function and structure of the kidney over months or years. It is non-recoverable and affects the body’s systems. Complications of CRF affect the patient’s quality of life, so physical rehabilitation plays a crucial role in enhancing quality of life. Materials and Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was developed, validated, and distributed as a Google form and circulated to medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, via social media platforms. The Data was automatically calculated using a Google spreadsheet. Results: 100 medical professionals filled out the questionnaire, of which 24 were doctors and 76 nurses. Among all participating medical professionals, 58.5% were cognizant of the role of physiotherapy in chronic renal failure, doctors were more aware than nurses. Conclusion: Medical professionals are less aware so, it is imperative to implement measures aimed at enhancing awareness about the role of physiotherapy in managing patients with CRF, as part of the management of complications and symptoms within the framework of a multidisciplinary team.

Investigating the 96h LC₅₀ of Mercury and Cadmium on Channa punctatus (Bloch): A Comparative Acute Toxicity Bioassay

Mohammed Aasif Sulaiman — 2024-03-04

Acute and chronic exposure of heavy metals exerts detrimental effect at the cellular level and is a rising global concern. The pollutants once introduced in the water bodies, subsequently enters the food chain, and poses risks not only to the aquatic organisms, but to the human consumers as well. Therefore, understanding the toxicological level of these metals is vital for assessing the severity of potential risks. The study aimed to conduct a comparative analysis of the acute toxicity of mercury and cadmium on Channa punctatus through a 96-hour bioassay. It was carried out in a semi-static laboratory condition following the standard guidelines. The behavioural, and mortality response was recorded at the 24, 48, 72, and 96 h of exposure duration for both toxicants. The results demonstrated distinct differences in toxicity levels between mercury and cadmium. The 96h-LC₅₀ value for cadmium was measured at 6.19 mg/l, while for mercury, it was significantly lower at 0.44 mg/l. It was revealed that even the trace concentration of metals can induce toxicity, if given for a prolonged period of time. Furthermore, the study observed heightened toxicity of mercury, exerting adverse effects at lower concentrations compared to cadmium within the same exposure duration.

Awareness of Musculoskeletal Changes in Postmenopausal Women in Rural Areas

Nisha Garud — 2024-03-04

Aim: This study aims to study the awareness of musculoskeletal changes in postmenopausal women in rural areas. Postmenopausal women experience many changes due to menopause and musculoskeletal changes are highly prevalent which adversely affects the health of women. Objectives: The objective was to determine the awareness of musculoskeletal changes among the postmenopausal women in rural areas, and to determine the awareness about adverse effects of these musculoskeletal changes. Methods: This was an observational study with 94 participants aged above 50 years. This study was done by using a standardized validated questionnaire. Results: Out of 94 participants in this study 8.51% of women were completely aware of menopause effects on the musculoskeletal system, 27.66% of women had good knowledge whereas 63.83% were unaware. Conclusion: According to the study awareness of musculoskeletal changes due to menopause in women in rural areas is poor. Few women were completely aware of musculoskeletal changes due to menopause whereas most women were unaware.

To Study the Correlation Between Allergic Rhinitis and Respiratory Endurance in Children

Pradnya Patil — 2024-03-04

As per recent studies, the prevalence of allergic rhinorrhea in children has increased to 25%. Allergic rhinitis is a disease of nasal obstruction or congestion that causes sneezing, nasal itching, runny or stuffy nose and sometimes reduction of sense of smell. Allergic rhinitis is challenging to handle. Physicians are reporting several cases of patients with severe symptoms. This research aims to study the correlation between allergic rhinitis and respiratory endurance in children. Material and Methodology: The random sample strategy was employed in this investigation. 50 individuals were chosen according to inclusion and exclusion standards. During this study, an incentive spirometer assessment was done on children. The collected data included demographic data and the assessment of an incentive spirometer. Result: According to the statistical analysis, there is a correlation between allergic rhinitis and respiratory endurance in children. This study shows that in children with allergic rhinitis, respiratory endurance is lower than the normal patients. Conclusion: This report found a correlation between allergic rhinitis and respiratory endurance in children.