Research & Academia
Published Research.
Peer-reviewed articles, clinical studies, and academic contributions across pediatric and adolescent health.
21 Results
Indian Academy of Pediatrics Consensus Guidelines on Preconception Care
The preconception period is the earliest window of opportunity to ensure optimal human development. Pregnancy and childbirth outcomes can be improved by interventions offered to support the health and well-being of women and couples prior to conception. Thus, preconception care is essential in preparing for the first thousand days of life. Adolescence, the stage of life that typically comes before the preconception stage, is characterized by various high-risk behaviors like substance abuse, sexual experimentation, injuries, obesity, and mental health issues which can adversely affect their health in adult life. Thus, a Consensus Guideline for pediatricians on providing preconception care to adolescents and young adults can go a long way in making the generations to come, healthier and more productive.
ExploreDevelopment and Formative Assessment of an Innovative Blended Educational Course for Care of Small and Sick Neonates in India and SEARO Countries
To develop and disseminate an innovative blended educational programme comprising of evidence-based neonatal healthcare practices across India and to identify and empower local champions who could sustain and scale quality improvement (QI) efforts regionally.
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Medical Science: Recent Advances and Applications Vol. 3
This book covers key areas of medical science. The contributions by the authors include iridodialysis repair, four-throw method, pupilloplasty, sewing machine technique, pediatric mandibular fracture, road traffic accident, intermaxillary fixation, inflammatory arthritis, progressive joint destruction, rheumatoid arthritis, virtual assistants, healthcare technology, clinical decision-making, case-based simulations, medical education, urinary tract infections, gram-negative bacteria, materno-foetal outcome, caesarean section, respiratory muscle training, expiratory muscle strength, forensic medicine, postmortem imaging, forensic DNA analysis, robotic-assisted postmortem biopsy, next-generation sequencing, neurorehabilitation outcomes, acquired brain injury, psycho-social interventions, cutaneous lupus, negative anti-DsADN, hepatitis C virus, congenital heart disease, atrial septal defect, cardiac malformations, urological emergencies, hydronephrosis, nephrolithiasis, siddha varmam therapy, plantar fasciitis, energy medicine, pain management, colorectal cancer, GNAS gene mutations, cancer-specific survival, microsatellite instability. This book contains various materials suitable for students, researchers, and academicians in the fields of medical science.
ExploreThe Impact of Chatbots and Virtual Assistants in Medical Education and Clinical Decision-Making
The integration of chatbots and virtual assistants in medical education and clinical decision-making has revolutionised the healthcare landscape. These AI-driven tools enhance learning experiences by providing interactive, personalised education to medical students and professionals. In clinical settings, they support decision-making by offering real-time, evidence-based recommendations, reducing diagnostic errors, and improving workflow efficiency. This review explores the applications, benefits, and challenges of chatbots and virtual assistants in medical education and clinical decision-making. It also examines their potential to bridge knowledge gaps, improve patient outcomes, and augment healthcare delivery. While these technologies offer significant advantages, concerns related to data security, accuracy, and ethical implications must be addressed for their optimal implementation.
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Comparative Analysis of Pulmonary Function in Urban and Rural Adolescents Exposed to Varying Air Quality Levels
Air pollution is a major environmental health concern, particularly affecting lung development in adolescents. Urban populations are often more exposed to higher levels of air pollutants compared to their rural counterparts. This study aims to evaluate and compare pulmonary function in adolescents residing in urban and rural regions with varying air quality indices (AQI). Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted involving 120 adolescents aged 13–18 years, with 60 participants each from urban and rural areas. Participants underwent spirometry to measure Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1), and FEV1/FVC ratio. AQI levels were monitored over a 3-month period in both regions. Exclusion criteria included known respiratory illnesses, smoking, and recent infections. Statistical analysis was performed using unpaired t-tests and ANOVA. Results: The mean FEV1 among urban adolescents was 2.48 ± 0.42 L, significantly lower than the rural group (2.91 ± 0.37 L, p < 0.001). Similarly, FVC was reduced in the urban group (3.12 ± 0.45 L) compared to rural participants (3.45 ± 0.39 L, p = 0.004). The mean FEV1/FVC ratio was also lower in urban subjects (79.4%) versus rural (84.3%), indicating early signs of obstructive airway changes. Average AQI in urban areas was 186 (moderate to poor), while rural areas recorded an average AQI of 72 (good). Conclusion: Adolescents living in urban areas with higher air pollution levels demonstrate significantly reduced pulmonary function compared to their rural counterparts. These findings highlight the need for improved air quality monitoring and public health interventions to protect vulnerable age groups.
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Study of Resilience in Female College Adolescents and Young Adults: Tough Times Don’t Last, Tough People Do
This study is part of a multicentric youth project conducted by Association of Adolescent and Child Care in India (AACCI).We examined resilience and its association with demographic variables like age, sibling status, academic course, engagementin extracurricular activities, perceived internet/social media usage and dependence, substance use and perception of controlover one’s life. We used a cross-sectional design with a sample of 17- to 21-year-old female college students from Delhi. Wefound that students who perceived control over their lives had high total scores on resilience measures. Students who usedsocial media had higher total and relational resilience than those who did not use social media. Students who did notuse social media had higher individual resilience. Those who did not see themselves as dependent on social media hadhigher total resilience and relational resilience. Those who did not see themselves as dependent on the internet had higherrelational resilience. There were no significant relationships between resilience and the other demographic variables. Resultsfrom the current study shed light on factors contributing to resilience among adolescents. We can use these findings todevelop training programs that promote adolescent well-being
ExploreEmpowering Adolescents: Exploring the Relationship between Self-Esteem and Test Anxiety
Females had higher test anxiety scores, and lower self-esteem scores and will need specific intervention. Being judged by marks affects the self-esteem of adolescents. SD factor was significant across ages in this sample. AACCI conducts awareness programs for parents and teachers to reduce social pressure on children given high SD scores. We also conduct intervention programs for improving CO scores by instilling good study skills and habits and relaxation and stress relief methods to reduce T scores in the context of test anxiety.
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A Literature Review on Holistic Well-Being and Dopamine Fasting: An Integrated Approach
Popularly known as dopaminergic detox or dopamine fasting, it is a concept that aims at reducing dependence on instant satisfaction gratification and overstimulation to attain mental clarity, lessen anxiety, and be able to enjoy everyday events again. Digital detox has been a part of the dopamine fasting concept for several years now. However, some critics argue that this notion has no scientific proof behind it and may fail to deal with the problem of dopamine dysregulation. Some intense types of dopamine fasting which include extreme isolation or strict dieting can result in damage to mental health as well as physical fitness. The objective of the article is to understand what dopamine fasting means and see the literature and evidence available on the topic. Indexes like PubMed, Scopus, OVID, Embase, and Google Scholar were searched using the keywords to understand the existing knowledge about dopamine fasting. The literature review was then written to incorporate the understanding in a way that can be implemented practically. Recent studies have shown that individuals who engage in dopamine-fasting-like ideologies may experience reduced impulsive behaviors, increased focus on tasks, and reduced overwhelm. However, extreme forms of dopamine fasting can lead to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and malnutrition, which can have detrimental effects on mental and physical health. Hence, the effects of dopamine fasting can vary greatly among individuals, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. It is essential to consider individual needs and preferences when incorporating dopamine fasting into one’s lifestyle and explore alternative practices that align with the principles of dopamine fasting. Understanding and respecting these differences is crucial in determining the most suitable strategies for maintaining a balanced dopamine response and overall psychological health. The benefits of dopamine fasting can be tremendous if done correctly but it depends on every individual to find the correct way and in the modern day, the practices can become tough to implement.
ExploreAnalysis Of Impact Of Regular Formative Assessment On Final Summative Assessment Among MBBS Students
Evaluations in education should exhibit reliability, acceptability, and cost-effectiveness. Formative assessment aids in motivating and guiding students through effective feedback, thereby enhancing learning outcomes. Consistent formative assessments have been shown to enhance performance in summative assessments. This study aimed to assess the impact of continuous formative assessment on summative assessment scores among first-year MBBS students.
ExploreIndian Journal of Youth and Adolescent Health Article View (2454)
Advanced Research Publications
ExplorePrevalence and Correlates of Anxiety Disorders among Higher Secondary School Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
To study the anxiety disorders among higher secondary school students using Screen for Child Anxiety Related Disorders (SCARED)
ExploreAwareness and knowledge of HIV/AIDS in school going children of Surat, Gujarat
Adolescents are susceptible to unhealthy practices due to a lack of knowledge and curiosity to try new things. Adolescent age also forms the base for behaviors throughout their lives. This study therefore aimed to understand adolescents’ present knowledge and attitude towards HIV/AIDS.
ExplorePattern of Internet Use and Knowledge and Practices in School Children
Study background AACCI - Association of Adolescent and Child Care in India conducts multicentric youth behaviour studies in India. The results are shared with the school and intervention programs are held. This paper analyses the pattern of internet use knowledge and practices in school children
ExploreA Cross Sectional Study on Depression disorders among higher secondary school students using Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) in India
A cross sectional study was conducted with a convenient sampling of 1225 students of 11 and 12th standard from the different four schools of Surat city during Aug-Sept 2015 by “Beck Depression Inventory (BDI)” scale to study the depression and suicidal tendency among higher secondary school students using Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). One third (33.6%) of the students had depressive symptoms according to the BDI scale. Out of which 15.1% were mildly depressive symptoms, 16.0% were moderately depressive symptoms 2.4% were severely depressive symptoms and 0.1% extremely depressive symptoms. Mother Education was independently affecting the mental health of children which was found statistically significant. Occupation of the family head was independently affecting the mental health of children which was found statistically significant. Occurrences of Depression is a multifactorial which depends upon several parameters & conditions in one’s life. The commonest type of Depression is Moderate type for which instead of increasing in Age of child certain other parameters like Parent’s education, occupation, socioeconomic status, family type & residential surroundings play a vital role. The religion & medium of education needs some more evidences for consideration.
ExploreDOES MATERNAL HIV STATUS AFFECT INFANT GROWTH?: A HOSPITAL BASED FOLLOW UP STUDY
HIV infection is difficult to diagnose in infants, as most infected babies appear healthy and exhibit no signs and symptoms at birth. The present study was conducted to study the clinical profile & morbidity pattern of infants born to HIV positive mothers, their nutritional status and growth pattern and compare them with HIV non exposed infants.
ExploreA Prospective Study on the Efficacy of Hypertonic Saline Nebulization in Infants with Acute Bronchiolitis
Acute bronchiolitis is a leading cause of hospitalization in infants under two years of age. It is primarily managed supportively, as there is limited evidence favoring pharmacologic interventions. Recent studies suggest that nebulized hypertonic saline may reduce airway edema and improve clinical outcomes, but data in resource-limited settings remain scarce. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was conducted over 6 months in the pediatric department of a tertiary care hospital. A total of 60 infants aged 1 to 12 months with clinically diagnosed acute bronchiolitis were enrolled and randomly allocated into two groups: Group A (n=30) received 3% hypertonic saline nebulization, while Group B (n=30) received 0.9% normal saline nebulization. Nebulizations were administered every 8 hours for 5 days. The primary outcome was change in clinical severity score (CSS), measured at baseline, day 3, and day 5. Secondary outcomes included duration of hospital stay and oxygen supplementation requirement. Results: Baseline clinical severity scores were comparable in both groups (Group A: 6.3 ± 1.2, Group B: 6.1 ± 1.0; p=0.47). On day 5, Group A showed a significantly greater reduction in CSS (2.1 ± 0.9) compared to Group B (3.4 ± 1.1; p<0.001). The mean duration of hospital stay was shorter in Group A (3.2 ± 0.8 days) versus Group B (4.5 ± 1.1 days; p=0.002). Oxygen supplementation was needed for a shorter period in Group A (1.5 ± 0.5 days) than in Group B (2.3 ± 0.7 days; p=0.01). Conclusion: Hypertonic saline nebulization significantly improves clinical severity scores, reduces hospital stay, and decreases oxygen dependency in infants with acute bronchiolitis. It may be considered as an effective and safe therapeutic option in standard bronchiolitis management protocols
ExploreEmpowering Physiotherapy Students: Enhancing Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation Knowledge and Confidence for Out-Of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Response – An Educational Interventional Study
Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) plays a vital role in saving lives during out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCA). However, bystander CPR rates remain low due to lack of knowledge and confidence among the general public, including healthcare students. This study aimed to assess the impact of a CPR training intervention on the knowledge and confidence of physiotherapy students in South Gujarat. Methods: A pre-post educational interventional study was conducted among 1000 physiotherapy students from three colleges. Basic and advanced life support (BLS/ALS) certified instructors provided hands-on CPR and AED training. Pre- and post-training assessments were conducted using a self-administered questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, and McNemar's test. Results: The training significantly improved students' knowledge (median pre-test score: 16, post-test score: 21, p < 0.001) and confidence in administering CPR (pre-training: 30.2%, post-training: 86.7%). There was a significant improvement in correct responses to CPR-related questions (p < 0.05), with notable gains in understanding CPR protocol and AED usage. Conclusion: CPR training significantly improved physiotherapy students' knowledge and confidence in responding to OHCA. Such interventions are essential for preparing healthcare professionals to act effectively in emergency situations.
ExploreScreen Time Addiction and Its Association with Behavioral Problems among School-Aged Children: A Cross-Sectional Study
Excessive screen time has emerged as a growing public health concern, particularly among school-aged children. Prolonged exposure to digital screens has been linked to adverse behavioral and psychological outcomes. This study aims to assess the association between screen time addiction and behavioral problems among children aged 6–12 years. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 400 children attending urban schools in Surat-India. Parents completed a structured questionnaire consisting of the Screen Time Addiction Scale (STAS) and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) to evaluate screen dependency and behavioral issues respectively. Demographic data and average daily screen time were also recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.0, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Among the participants, 62.5% were identified with moderate to high screen time addiction (STAS score ≥25). The mean daily screen exposure was 4.1 ± 1.3 hours. Behavioral difficulties, especially hyperactivity (mean SDQ score 6.2 ± 1.5) and peer problems (mean score 5.4 ± 1.3), were significantly higher in children with screen addiction compared to those with lower exposure (p<0.01). A positive correlation (r = 0.56, p<0.001) was found between STAS and total SDQ scores. Conclusion: The study highlights a significant association between increased screen time and behavioral challenges among school-aged children. Interventions targeting screen time regulation, along with behavioral counseling, may play a pivotal role in mitigating these effects.
ExploreNEPTUNE Trial: Methodological Considerations and Unanswered Questions
The use of post-extubation nebulized epinephrine to prevent extubation failure in ventilated newborns is an important yet underexplored area. I commend the authors of the NEPTUNE sudy for conducting a prospective, registered randomized controlled trial in this challenging population [1]. However, a few issues affect the interpretation and applicability of the findings.
ExploreThe Urban Academic Stress Map: How Age, Gender, and City Influence Test Anxiety and Self-Esteem in Adolescents- A Multicentric Cross-Sectional Study Across Four Indian Cities
Test anxiety and low self-esteem are prevalent mental health concerns among adolescents in competitive academic environments. However, limited multicentric data exist examining these constructs jointly across Indian urban settings, age groups, and genders.
ExploreThe Urban Academic Stress Map: How Age, Gender, and City Influence Test Anxiety and Self-Esteem in Adolescents- A Multicentric Cross-Sectional Study Across Four Indian Cities