Frontiers of Nursing Feed

Research progress on intrinsic capacity in elderly patients with chronic diseases

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Global aging underscores the need to address complex health challenges in elderly patients with chronic diseases. Intrinsic capacity (IC) provides a multidimensional framework covering cognitive, psychological, vitality, locomotion, and sensory domains. Among elderly patients with chronic conditions, IC plays a critical role in influencing both quality of life and clinical outcomes. Therefore, this article summarizes research progress on the current status of IC in elderly patients with chronic diseases.

Determinants of iron supplement adherence and hemoglobin status among 6-month-old infants in a high-poverty region of Peru

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveTo assess hemoglobin levels, adherence to ferrous sulfate supplementation, and associated factors among 6-month-old infants in a Peruvian health center.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 57.6-month-old infants attending a public health facility. Hemoglobin levels were obtained through capillary blood samples, while adherence to ferrous sulfate was assessed using a validated Likert-type scale (Cronbach’s α = 0.89; Aiken’s V = 0.93), encompassing individual, family, social, and institutional dimensions. Data were analyzed using SPSS v.27 (IBM Corporation, Armonk, New York, United States). Chi-square tests and logistic regression were performed to identify associations between hemoglobin status, adherence levels, and associated factors.ResultsAmong participants, 57.9% had adequate hemoglobin levels (≥11.0 g/dL) and 54.4% adhered to ferrous sulfate supplementation. Significant associations were found between hemoglobin levels and adherence status (P = 0.00), maternal age (P = 0.010), maternal education (P = 0.000), socioeconomic status (P = 0.012), and rural origin (P = 0.020). Low adherence was more prevalent in the individual (75.4%) and family (70.2%) domains, while higher adherence was observed in the institutional dimension (86.0%). Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) indicated that individual (AOR = 2.8; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.6–5.0) and family factors (AOR = 2.0; 95% CI: 1.2–3.0) were significant predictors of hemoglobin levels.ConclusionsAdherence to iron supplementation significantly influences hemoglobin levels in infants. Individual and family-related factors negatively affect adherence, while institutional and social factors act as protective influences. These findings underscore the need to incorporate adherence-focused strategies into public health programs aimed at reducing infant anemia, particularly in socioeconomically disadvantaged settings.

Development and usability evaluation of a family role-focused recommendation system for young breast cancer patients †

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveTo develop and evaluate the usability of the family role-focused recommendation system (FRFRS) for young women with breast cancer. Young breast cancer patients face dynamic and multifaceted family role problems throughout their illness trajectory, leading to significant psychosocial distress. Recommendation systems hold significant potential for delivering personalized, comprehensive, and dynamically adaptive support resources effectively.MethodsThis study was conducted in 2 phases, including system development and usability evaluation. In the first phase, we developed the FRFRS based on a resource repository. In the second phase, 25 participants were recruited to use the FRFRS for 4 weeks. Usability was evaluated using the System Usability Scale (SUS), supplemented by semi-structured interviews with a subset of participants.ResultsThe FRFRS was successfully developed, comprising an Android client application for personalized patient support and a web-based administrative backend for systematic management. Of the 25 participants recruited, 21 (84%) completed the 4-week trial and the subsequent SUS assessment. The mean overall SUS score for the FRFRS was 79.29, falling within the “Good” (Grade B) usability rating. Qualitative analysis indicated that users perceived the system as useful and easy to use, and expressed a willingness to continue using it. However, participants reported limitations in content specificity and challenges with content comprehension and presentation.ConclusionsThis study successfully developed the FRFRS and demonstrated its good initial usability among young breast cancer patients. Further research is needed to refine system content and presentation and to evaluate the effectiveness of the FRFRS in improving psychosocial outcomes and addressing family role problems.

Yoga as a therapeutic tool: alleviating menopausal symptoms and enhancing life quality among women in Mangaluru, India

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveTo find the effectiveness of yoga on menopausal symptoms and the quality of life of women.MethodsThe research employed a quasi-experimental non-equivalent pre-test post-test control group design. Thirty-two women, aged 40–55 years, experiencing mild to moderate menopausal symptoms, were selected for the intervention and control groups through a simple random sampling technique. Menopausal symptoms were evaluated using the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS), while quality of life was assessed using the Utian Quality of Life (UQOL). The intervention group underwent a 2-month yoga program followed by a post-test, while the control group received standard treatment.ResultsThe mean age of the subjects in the intervention group is 46.22 ± 3.49, and the mean age of the subjects in the control group is 47.37 ± 3.65. The median post-test ranks of somatic urogenital symptoms and quality of life were statistically significant than the median pre-test ranks in the intervention group, compared to the control group (P < 0.001). There was an association of menopausal history with baseline variables in the intervention group.ConclusionsThe study results indicated that the practice of yoga proved to be effective in diminishing menopausal symptoms and improving overall quality of life.

Midwifery-led education and training on safe supplementary food processing: effects on mothers’ knowledge, attitudes, and motivation toward stunting prevention in Indonesia†

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveNurses and midwives play an essential role in the community in preventing and managing stunting among toddlers. This study examined the impact of midwives-led education and training on supplementary food processing, aiming to enhance mothers’ knowledge, attitudes, and motivation in managing toddler feeding using food safety principles.MethodsThis quasi-experimental one-group pretest-posttest study evaluated an educational and practical training intervention on supplementary feeding management for mothers of toddlers aged 6–24 months. Using purposive sampling, 30 respondents were assessed for knowledge, attitudes, and motivation both before and after the intervention. The data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon test.ResultsThis study revealed significant improvements in knowledge, attitudes, and motivation after the intervention. Knowledge increased with a mean difference of 2.74 (P < 0.001), attitudes improved with a mean difference of 3.76 (P < 0.001), and motivation increased with a mean difference of 4.54 (P = 0.001).ConclusionsFood processing education and training improved the knowledge, attitudes, and motivation of mothers of stunted toddlers. This study reinforces the role of midwives and community nurses as frontline health educators in promoting child growth and development by educating them on food safety. The intervention demonstrated how midwifery-led nutrition education empowers mothers to adopt safer food practices, thereby reducing the risk of stunting and enhancing community health resilience.

Exploration of plant-based diet in non-communicable disease management based on agro nursing†

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveThis study aimed to explore farmers’ consumption patterns of local vegetables and fruits and to examine their potential contribution to the management of hypertension through the development of an agro-nursing-based plant-based diet in Jember Regency.MethodsA qualitative approach is used to explore sources of vegetables and fruits that can be used as a plant-based hypertension diet and the problem of the farmers’ hypertension. The data collection involved 4 months of participant observation (PO) in the community and focus group discussions (FGDs) with the key informants until data saturation, with 25 informants (consisting of community health workers [CHW], locally known as “kader” in Indonesia, and farmers). We used Leininger’s 4 phases of qualitative analysis to develop a thematic structure of this study.ResultsSeventeen patterns generated 2 themes through the analysis of all data. The plant-based diet was found to be integrated into their daily behavioral activities. Farmers’ consumption patterns and types of vegetables and fruits consumed were also identified in this study. Consumption patterns and the ability of the family also became the basis for farmers to meet the consumption of vegetables and fruits which are also useful for lowering their blood pressure.ConclusionsThis study demonstrates that farmers maintain dietary patterns characterized by regular consumption of vegetables and fruits, which indicates the integration of a plant-based diet into their daily routine. Such dietary practices contribute to managing hypertension, as consistent intake of fruits and vegetables helps maintain stable health.

Psychometric evaluation of a Turkish version of the modified Hemodialysis Fear of Injecting Questionnaire for patients undergoing hemodialysis: a methodological study

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveThere is limited information available addressing injection fears in patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD). This study aimed to assess the psychometric properties of a Turkish version of the modified Hemodialysis Fear of Injecting Questionnaire (HD-FIQ) for patients undergoing HD.MethodsA methodological study was conducted with 100 patients recruited from one HD center. A personal information form, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and the HD-FIQ were utilized to gather data. Data were analyzed through statistical tests, such as descriptive statistics, the Mann–Whitney U test, the Kruskal–Wallis test, correlation coefficients, and psychometric tests.ResultsThe face and content validity of the instrument were confirmed by an expert group. The exploratory factor analyzed a one-factor structure, accounting for 85.4% of the total variance. The HD-FIQ had high internal consistency (Cronbach’s α coefficient = 0.89), and test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.94), concurrent validity with treatment duration and state anxiety, convergent validity with the visual analog scale (VAS) fear scores, and known group validity with the presence of injection fear and its intensity, as well as the severity of state anxiety. Since the relevant section has been removed from the manuscript, please delete this sentence as well.ConclusionsThe initial psychometric tests of the Turkish version of the modified HD-FIQ demonstrated that it is a valid, and reliable instrument for evaluating the fear of injection in patients undergoing HD. Our findings may offer new insights into developing effective strategies to alleviate patients’ fears regarding injections, as well as providing a more comprehensive understanding of these fears.

What long-term care services may elderly people need in Beijing: evidence from the heterogeneous of physiological, psychological, and social characters†

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveTo develop a functional classification for older adults and compare the characteristics and service needs across different categories to inform targeted long-term care service planning.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 5997 older adults (≥60 years) from 8 communities in Beijing, selected via stratified random sampling through activities of daily living levels. Data were collected via electronic questionnaires assessing demographics, functional status, physiological factors, psychological status, social engagement, and perceived needs for 18 long-term care (LTC) services. K-means clustering analysis was applied to activities of daily living (ADL) and IADL scores to identify functional groups. Between-group differences were analyzed using ANOVA and chi-square tests. Multivariate logistic regression examined factors associated with different disability levels.ResultsFour distinct functional clusters were identified: “Healthy” (70.8%), “Mildly Disabled” (16.2%), “Moderately Disabled” (7.7%), and “Severely Disabled” (5.3%). Compared to the healthier groups, disabled groups were significantly older, had lower education levels, higher comorbidity burdens, greater polypharmacy, more severe sensory impairments, higher rates of falls, longer daytime sleep, and increased prevalence of depressive symptoms and social isolation (all P < 0.05). The need for most LTC services, especially personal care, home-based services, and caregiver support, increased significantly with the level of disability (P < 0.001). However, “health knowledge guidance” was highly demanded across all groups.ConclusionsSignificant heterogeneity exists among older adults with different functional statuses. Integrating services such as chronic disease and medication management, sensory screening, nutritional support, and psychosocial interventions into the LTC system is recommended. Service planning should consider the graded needs across functional categories, prioritizing preventive education while ensuring adequate personal care for disabled individuals. The clustering approach offers a data-driven reference for developing nuanced LTC classification standards.

Postoperative rehabilitation after lower limb amputation due to peripheral arterial disease: scoping review

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveLower-limb amputation due to peripheral arterial disease (PAD) predominantly affects older adults with multiple comorbidities, resulting in high postoperative complication rates, limited functional recovery, and adaptation challenges. Optimized rehabilitation is essential to restore mobility, independence, and quality of life.MethodsWe conducted a scoping review to map the rehabilitation interventions for individuals undergoing lower limb amputation due to PAD during the postoperative period. The review adhered to the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and the PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines. The protocol was registered with the Open Science Framework (OSF). A comprehensive search was carried out in Medline, CINAHL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Scopus, PEDro, Web of Science, SciELO, SPORTDiscus, and MedicLatina, complemented by gray literature (Google Scholar, MedNar, Open Access Scientific Repositories of Portugal [RCAAP]). No language or date restrictions were applied. Two independent reviewers screened records, resolving disagreements through a third reviewer.ResultsOf the 351 records screened, 5 studies met the inclusion criteria. The interventions identified in the immediate postoperative phase included early mobilization, structured rehabilitation protocols, pain management strategies, strengthening and balance exercises, wound care, and psychosocial support. Reported outcomes encompassed functional independence, hospital length of stay, prosthetic adaptation, and complication rates.ConclusionsEarly, comprehensive, and multidisciplinary rehabilitation is essential to optimize recovery in patients with PAD-related lower limb amputations. High-quality trials with standardized interventions and consistent outcome measures are urgently required to improve mobility, independence, prosthetic success, and overall quality of life in this vulnerable population.

Social determinants of health associated with underweight among middle-aged Japanese men and women: a cross-sectional study†

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveThis study examined the gender-specific associations between social determinants of health and underweight status among middle-aged Japanese adults.MethodsThis cross-sectional study analyzed data from a postal survey of 2799 healthy middle-aged Japanese adults. Underweight was defined as a body mass index (BMI) <18.5 kg/m2 based on self-reported height and weight. The following variables were included as covariates in the multivariable-adjusted models: age, economic status, educational level, health literacy, living alone status, daily working hours, smoking status, drinking status, physical activity, sleep quality, and self-reported mental health.ResultsOf the 2799 participants, the prevalence of underweight was 5.0% in men (59/1170) and 14.9% in women (242/1629). Among men, living alone was significantly associated with underweight (adjusted risk ratio [RR]: 1.97, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.16–3.36), as was current smoking (RR: 1.75, 95% CI: 1.04–2.95). Self-reported average and poor/very poor mental health also had strong associations with underweight among men: average mental health (RR: 2.51, 95% CI: 1.21–5.19) and poor/very poor mental health (RR: 3.05, 95% CI: 1.36–6.87) versus very good/good mental health. Among women, no significant associations were observed. However, sensitivity analyses indicated an association between smoking and being underweight.ConclusionsThis study identified gender-specific factors associated with underweight in healthy middle-aged Japanese adults, highlighting the importance of social and psychological influences on nutritional status. Gender-specific approaches may be essential for early identification of underweight and appropriate interventions.

Evaluation of empathy in nursing practice in the emergency department of Hassan II University Hospital Center in Fez

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveTo assess empathy using the Jefferson Scale of Empathy-Health Professional (JSE-HP) and to identify the factors influencing nurses’ empathy in the emergency department.MethodsThis study is a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted among 74 nurses working in the emergency department of CHU Hassan II in Fez from December 2024 to January 2025. Data were collected using a questionnaire composed of 2 sections: socio-demographic data and the JSE-HP, which consists of 20 items rated on a 7-point Likert scale. The maximum possible score was 140, while the minimum was 20. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS statistical analysis software.ResultsThe mean score on the JSE-HP for nurses working in the emergency department was 97.68. Regarding bivariate analysis, it was observed that only age (P = 0.01), professional experience (P = 0.04), and experience in the emergency department (P = 0.03) were significantly associated with empathy. The mean JSE-HP score observed in this study was 97.68 ± 18.03. In the absence of a universally established cut-off value for the JSE-HP, the results are interpreted descriptively and in comparison with similar studies.ConclusionsThese findings suggest a relatively satisfactory level of empathy among nurses. However, there remains a need to further promote and strengthen empathy through interventional studies.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of nurses toward Nipah virus infection prevention and control in rural Pangasinan, Philippines: a cross-sectional KAP study

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveNipah virus (NiV) is a highly fatal emerging zoonotic disease with expanding bat reservoirs and documented transmission in the Philippines. However, the preparedness of frontline nurses in rural healthcare settings remains insufficiently understood. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of nurses regarding NiV infection prevention and control (IPC) in rural Pangasinan, Philippines.MethodsA cross-sectional KAP survey was conducted among registered nurses working in government and private healthcare facilities in rural municipalities of Pangasinan. A structured, pretested questionnaire assessed socio-demographic characteristics and KAP related to NiV epidemiology, transmission, clinical manifestations, and IPC strategies. Knowledge scores were categorized as good (≥70%) or poor, and attitudes and practices were classified as favorable or unfavorable based on predefined Likert-scale cutoffs. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with good knowledge and good practices. Ethical approval was obtained from the Philippine Region 1 Ethical Review Committee (Protocol No. NURDD827A 2026), and written informed consent was obtained from all participants.ResultsA total of 250 nurses participated (response rate >80%); most were female (60.0%), mid-career, and employed in hospital or rural health unit settings. Overall, 110 nurses (44.0%) demonstrated good knowledge of NiV, while 180 (72.0%) expressed favorable attitudes toward NiV preparedness and 120 (48.0%) reported good IPC practices. Knowledge gaps were most evident regarding specific transmission routes and appropriate use of full personal protective equipment (PPE). In multivariable models, longer clinical experience (>10 years), hospital employment, NiV-specific training, and recent IPC or emerging infection training were independently associated with higher odds of good knowledge. Good practice was independently associated with longer experience, hospital employment, NiV-specific training, IPC training, and good knowledge of NiV.ConclusionsRural nurses in Pangasinan demonstrate predominantly positive attitudes but limited knowledge and suboptimal practices regarding NiV IPC, revealing a clear attitude–practice gap. Targeted, context-specific education and regular simulation-based IPC training—particularly for less experienced nurses and those working in smaller facilities—are needed to strengthen preparedness for potential NiV outbreaks in rural Philippine health settings.

Validity and reliability of the Lubben Social Network Scale (LSNS-6) in Thai older adults with non-communicable diseases

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the construct validity and reliability of the Thai version of the Lubben Social Network Scale-6 (LSNS-6) among older adults with non-communicable diseases (NCDs), a population particularly vulnerable to social isolation due to mobility limitations, functional decline, and frequent healthcare needs.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 older adults (≥60 years) with NCDs from urban and rural areas in northeastern Thailand. The LSNS-6 was translated and culturally adapted, and an expert panel assessed content validity. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to test the hypothesized two-factor structure (family and friends). Internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha, composite reliability (ρc), and average variance extracted (AVE).ResultsCFA indicated an excellent fit for the two-factor model: χ 2/df = 1.82, RMSEA = 0.045, SRMR = 0.038, CFI = 0.981, and TLI = 0.970. Factor loadings ranged from 0.80 to 0.84, with R2 values between 0.64 and 0.70. Cronbach’s alpha was 0.87 for the total scale, and ≥0.85 for subscales. ρc was 0.85, and AVE was 0.67.ConclusionsThe Thai LSNS-6 is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing social networks in older adults with NCDs. It holds practical value for home health care providers to identify socially isolated individuals, develop tailored interventions, and promote improved health outcomes.

Task-sharing: leveraging student nurses in low-resource settings

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveTo observe 4 graduate students from Johns Hopkins School of Nursing (JHSON) who participated in an experiential educational initiative at B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences (BPKIHS) in Dharan, Nepal, in January 2024.MethodsThe students engaged in diverse rotations across multiple wards, including community health, labor and delivery, emergency, psychiatric, and pediatric care.ResultsObservations revealed that nursing students in Nepal undertake significant responsibilities and assume the roles that are often reserved for more senior professionals in the U.S. The study highlights how task sharing and task shifting (TS/S) models, where tasks are redistributed among health care workers, including students, can address staffing shortages and enhance care delivery in low-resource settings and in times of crisis.ConclusionsDespite some challenges such as the potential for increased workload and the need for clear role definitions, the TS/S approach offers a promising strategy for improving health care efficiency and providing valuable learning experiences. This commentary suggests that incorporating nursing students into TS/S models not only supports immediate health care needs but also prepares them for independent practice upon graduation. This reflective commentary could offer insights into optimizing health care education and delivery in both resource-constrained environments and broader health care systems.

Enhancing maternal knowledge and child weight through self-help groups: a quasi-experimental study among mothers of weight-faltering children†

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveWeight faltering is a significant concern that can lead to wasting and stunting. Establishing self-help groups (SHGs) within communities may improve maternal knowledge and attitudes toward stunting prevention. This study analyzed the impact of SHGs on child weight, maternal knowledge, and attitudes among mothers of children experiencing weight faltering.MethodsThis quasi-experimental study used a pretest and posttest design. Fifty-two mothers with infants aged 0–36 months experiencing weight faltering were recruited using purposive sampling. The intervention involved structured health education and training delivered through SHGs. Weight was measured using a standardized weight scale, while maternal knowledge and attitudes were assessed using validated questionnaires. Data analysis included paired t-tests and the Wilcoxon test for pre- and post-intervention comparisons. Pre–post changes were additionally modeled using generalized estimating equations (GEE), adjusted for maternal age, education, employment, child age, and sex; subgroup differences were explored with delta analyses.ResultsSignificant improvements were observed in maternal knowledge (P < 0.001) and maternal attitudes (P < 0.001), and remained significant after adjustment (GEE β = 1.188, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.336–2.041, P = 0.006; β = 1.701, 95% CI 0.636–2.766, P = 0.002). Child weight increased modestly—significant on Wilcoxon (P = 0.029) but not after multivariable adjustment (GEE β = 0.041, 95% CI – 0.665–0.747, P = 0.910). No significant subgroup differences were detected (P > 0.05).ConclusionsSHGs are an effective intervention for enhancing maternal knowledge and attitudes toward stunting prevention, resulting in improved child weight outcomes. Community health centers should establish health volunteer groups in collaboration with mothers’ groups to sustain these benefits. Future research with larger samples and longer follow-up periods is recommended to strengthen the evidence base.

Effect of nursing intervention based on the environmental enrichment concept on depressive behavior in rats with ischemic stroke†

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveTo study the effect of nursing intervention based on the concept of environmental enrichment on depressive behavior in rats with ischemic stroke.MethodsThirty SD rats were randomly assigned to 3 groups (n = 10) using a random number table: Shame surgery control group (Shame), ischemia-reperfusion group (1/R), and ischemia-reperfusion group + environmental enrichment intervention group (1/R + EEI). Behavioral tests were conducted to assess depressive behaviors, including the sucrose consumption test and the open field test (OFT), and comparison analysis was performed.ResultsCompared with the Shame group, rats in the 1/R exhibited significant depressive-like behaviors, such as reduced sucrose consumption and decreased activity in the OFT, presenting with obvious emotional depression and reduced activity. Compared to the 1/R, rats in the 1/R + EEI showed a significant reduction in depressive behavior, increased sucrose consumption, and improved activity in the OFT, with better emotional status and enhanced activity.ConclusionsEnvironmental enrichment intervention can effectively alleviate depressive-like behavior in rats with ischemic stroke, likely through the enrichment of environmental stimuli to improve rats’ emotional and activity levels. This provides a new perspective and theoretical basis for the intervention of depressive symptoms in patients with ischemic stroke.

Predictors of sexual and reproductive behaviors among adolescents in a secondary school for girls in Enugu Metropolis, Nigeria

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectivesThe adolescent period is characterized by increased sexual curiosity and interest in the opposite sex, including opposite-sex relationships. Hence, adolescents are more likely to experience sexual and reproductive health (SRH) issues. This study assessed the sexual and reproductive behavior of adolescents, along with its associated factors, at a secondary school in Enugu metropolis.MethodsA cross-sectional descriptive survey was employed involving 324 female students at Queens School, Enugu, Nigeria, using the simple random sampling technique. The instrument for data collection was a researcher-developed questionnaire with a reliability coefficient of 0.762.ResultsThe mean age and standard deviation (SD) of the respondents was 13.55 ± 1.69. Only 28 (8.6%) of the adolescents were sexually active. Half (n = 14, 50%) of the sexually active adolescents had had their first sexual experience before 9 years of age. Class (P = 0.003), living characteristics (P = 0.019), and receiving of pocket money (P = 0.002) were significantly associated with SRH behavior. Respondents who received pocket money significantly predicted risky sexual and reproductive behavior [OR = 2.714, P < 0.05, 95%CI (1.002–7.353)].ConclusionsAlthough proportionately low, risky SRH behavior is prevalent among the respondents. Healthcare providers should collaborate with other stakeholders to provide more information and resources that can be channeled to improve adolescent SRH behavior.

Effect of WhatsApp-based periodical interactive SLMs teaching and communication on TB diagnosis completion among TB contacts of TB cases in Faridabad, Haryana

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveAn Impact assessment of WhatsApp-based self-learning materials (SLMs) teaching and interactive communication on Tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis completion among TB contacts.MethodsA quasi-experimental one-group pre-post-test study involving 86 TB contacts selected through cluster simple random sampling across 5 TB units in Faridabad from February to April 2023. Data were collected telephonically (5–6 min) at 3 time points: 6–7 d, 27–28 d, and 55–56 d and analyzed at a P < 0.05 significance level. Paired samples t-tests and one-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used in this study.ResultsThe study results showed that compared to first pre-intervention (5% [4]) the TB diagnosis completion rate increased (11% [9]/45% [33]), respectively after the first and second interventions; however, no significant difference was observed between first pre- and post-intervention (t [84] = 1.39, P = 0.166) during (6–7/27–28 d); whereas a significant difference (t [84] = 4.02, P < 0.001) was observed after the second post intervention (55–56 d) compared to second pre-intervention (27–28 d). Moreover, overall, over 3 time points (6–7, 27–28, 55–56 d), a significant difference (F [2170] = 18.94, P < 0.00001) was observed pre-post intervention upon TB diagnosis completion among TB contacts.ConclusionsWhatsApp-based SLMs teaching and interactive communication have proven effective in increasing TB diagnosis completion among TB contacts; hence, policymakers should promote m-health literacy, especially for TB-affected underserved populations living in remote areas, encouraging them to seek timely diagnosis and follow-up care.

Prevalence of sarcopenia and frailty and their effects on health status and quality of life in older adults with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveTo determine the prevalence of sarcopenia and frailty in older adults with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and examine their effects on health status and quality of life (QoL).MethodsA purposive sample of 280 older adults with uncontrolled T2DM was recruited in this descriptive correlational study. The research instruments included a demographic questionnaire, the SARC-F questionnaire, the FRAIL scale, a visual analog scale (VAS) assessing health status, and the WHOQOL questionnaire. Uncontrolled T2DM was defined as hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) >7% or fasting blood sugar >130 mg/dL after at least 8 h of fasting, in accordance with the American Diabetes Association guidelines. Sarcopenia and frailty were assessed using the SARC-F (≥4) and FRAIL scale (≥3), respectively. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and 2-way analysis of variance (ANOVA).ResultsThe prevalence of sarcopenia and frailty was 11.4% and 5.4%, respectively. There was a statistically significant interaction effect between sarcopenia and frailty on health status, F (2, 274) = 23.71, P < 0.001, partial η2 = 0.148, and QoL, F (2, 274) = 5.59, P = 0.004, partial η2 = 0.039. There were significant main effects of sarcopenia and frailty on health status, F (1, 274) = 57.19, P < 0.001, and F (2, 274) = 40.53, P < 0.001, respectively. There were significant main effects of frailty on QoL F (2, 274) = 7.06, P = 0.001, but there were no statistically significant main effects of sarcopenia on QoL: F (1, 274) = 3.57, P = 0.06.ConclusionsEarly detection of sarcopenia and frailty in older adults with uncontrolled T2DM is essential to promoting health and QoL. Future studies should develop interventions to prevent and delay sarcopenia and frailty in this population.

Too lazy, too low? A correlational study of sedentary lifestyle and self-esteem among university students

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveTo examine the relationship between sedentary lifestyle and self-esteem among nursing students. A sedentary lifestyle has become increasingly prevalent among university students, particularly in this digital era, and is suspected to affect not only physical health but also psychological aspects such as self-esteem.MethodsThis correlational analytic study used a quantitative approach and was conducted at the Institute of Technology and Health Sciences (ITSKes) ICMe Jombang from January to February 2025. A total of 252 active nursing students from semesters 2, 4, and 6 were selected through purposive sampling. Sedentary lifestyle was measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) short form, while self-esteem was assessed with the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES). Data were analyzed using Spearman’s rank correlation and simple linear regression.ResultsMost respondents reported high levels of sedentary behavior and moderate to low levels of self-esteem. A strong and statistically significant negative correlation was found between sedentary lifestyle and self-esteem (Spearman’s ρ = −0.773, P = 0.002). Regression analysis also showed that a sedentary lifestyle significantly predicted self-esteem (R2 = 0.597, β= −0.773, P = 0.000), indicating that 59.8% of the variance in self-esteem could be explained by sedentary behavior.ConclusionsA high level of sedentary lifestyle is significantly associated with lower self-esteem among nursing students. These findings highlight the need for interventions promoting active lifestyles to support the psychological well-being of students.