The Sri Lankan Journal of Allied Health Sciences Feed

Effect of Time Delay at Ambient Temperature on Serum Electrolytes and Comparison of Electrolyte Concentrations in Plasma and Serum

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The present study was aimed at investigating the effect of time delay at ambient temperature on laboratory investigation of serum electrolytes and to compare the electrolytes concentrations in plasma and serum. The study was conducted by recruiting 32 healthy individuals of 22-35 years. Whole blood samples (6 mL) were collected from each individual and plasma and serum were separated. Serum was divided into four aliquots. One aliquot was analysed immediately after the separation (baseline value) and other three aliquots were kept for 1, 3 and 5 hours at ambient temperature (28-30 °C). The plasma and serum electrolytes; Na+, K+, Cl- and iCa2+ concentrations were measured by ST-200 Plus Electrolyte Analyzer. There were no statistically significant differences in serum Na⁺ concentrations between serum analysed immediately after separation (142.60±2.31 mmol/L) and serum kept for 1 hour at ambient temperature (142.63±2.27 mmol/L) (p>0.05). Similarly, no statistically significant differences were observed in serum Cl⁻ concentrations between serum analysed immediately after separation (101.27±1.46 mmol/L) and serum stored at ambient temperature for 1 hour (101.43±1.48 mmol/L) and 3 hours (101.55±1.39 mmol/L) (p>0.05). Comparison of baseline plasma and serum electrolyte concentrations demonstrated no statistically significant difference in Na⁺ concentrations between plasma (142.75±2.23 mmol/L) and serum analysed immediately after separation (142.60±2.31 mmol/L) (p>0.05). However, a statistically significant difference was observed between plasma and serum K⁺ concentrations, with plasma showing 4.09±0.31 mmol/L and serum analysed immediately after separation showing 4.21±0.31 mmol/L (p<0.05). Likewise, a statistically significant difference was observed between plasma and serum iCa²⁺ concentrations, where plasma showed 1.25±0.03 mmol/L and serum analysed immediately after separation showed 1.27±0.03 mmol/L (p<0.05). No statistically significant difference was observed between plasma (101.54±1.33 mmol/L) and serum analysed immediately after separation (101.27±1.46 mmol/L) in relation to Cl⁻ concentrations (p>0.05). Immediately separated plasma following blood collection can be suggested as the sample of choice for the determination of Na⁺, K⁺, Cl⁻, and iCa²⁺ when multiple electrolyte parameters are analysed from a single sample.

Medication Adherence and Associated Factors among Diabetic Patients Attending the Clinic at a Tertiary Hospital in Northern Sri Lanka

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most important chronic diseases. The prevalence rate of diabetes is increasing worldwide, and it is rapidly rising in Sri Lanka. Uncontrolled diabetes leads to the development of complications, which will increase morbidity and mortality. Medication non-adherence is one reason for uncontrolled diabetes. Therefore, objective of the study was determination of adherence to oral hypoglycemic drugs among patients with diabetes, and the factors associated with adherence and the barriers to adherence, at the Teaching Hospital, Jaffna, in Northern Sri Lanka. This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study conducted among 420 patients with diabetes mellitus attending the Teaching Hospital in Jaffna, Sri Lanka. A pretested, interviewer-administered questionnaire and a data extraction form were used to collect data on medication adherence and associated factors. Data were analysed using SPSS, version 21.0. The Chi-square test was used to assess the association between variables. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered significant. The response rate was 99% (n=416). The majority of the patients (78.1%) adhered to their therapy. The most reported reasons for non-adherence to oral anti-diabetic drugs were lack of reminders, followed by misplaced medication, and being busy or late for work. Age, occupation, family support, frequency of blood glucose checks, regular clinic visits, total number of drugs, number of oral hypoglycemic agents, and total weekly doses of oral hypoglycemic agents were significantly associated with adherence. Most patients reported good adherence to diabetic medication at the Teaching Hospital in Jaffna. More attention should be taken among non-adherent patients by considering the factors associated with non-adherence and providing proper counselling on medication usage to them.

Prevalence of Anemia and Its Association with Body Mass Index Status among Allied Health Sciences Students at a Leading University in Sri Lanka: A Cross-sectional Study

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Anemia and obesity are major global health issues associated with substantial mortality in developing countries. Although the student population was reported to be more vulnerable to anemia and Body Mass Index (BMI) outside the normal range, there is a lack of contemporary data in Sri Lanka. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the prevalence of anemia in relation to BMI status among students in the Allied Health Sciences (AHS) at a leading university in Sri Lanka. After obtaining informed consent, blood samples were collected, and hemoglobin concentration was estimated. Weight and height were measured, and BMI was calculated. Additionally, a self-administered questionnaire was utilized to gather data on factors associated with obesity and anemia. Results revealed a prevalence of 22.9% for anemia and 50.1% for underweight or overweight/obesity, with a female predominance. Furthermore, anemic individuals had significantly higher BMI levels than healthy students (p = 0.028), although no significant differences were found between BMI categories and anemia status. The risk analysis revealed that students with BMI outside the normal range have a higher chance of being anemic than those with normal BMI. Irregular exercise and less consumption of green leafy vegetables were associated with anemia (p < 0.05), while a family history of anemia and obesity showed a significant association (p < 0.05) with obesity. In conclusion, the prevalence of anemia among AHS undergraduates with higher BMI levels is relatively high; however, further studies are recommended to find the association between obesity and anemia.

Excessive Screen Time and Its Association with Psychological Health among Adolescents in Galle Educational Division, Southern, Sri Lanka

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The rise in excessive screen time and addictive behaviour among adolescents is a growing concern that significantly affect their psychological well-being. Identifying the extent of excessive screen time and its association with psychological problems is crucial for developing effective policies. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 420 schoolchildren aged 12-16 from selected schools within the Galle Educational Division, using a stratified multistage cluster sampling to assess the prevalence of excessive screen time and its association to the psychological health among adolescents in the Educational Division of Southern, Sri Lanka. A pretested, self-administered questionnaire was used to assess the addictive behaviour. Depression Anxiety Stress Scale - Youth 21 (DASS Y-21) was used to assess the severity of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms. Data were analysed using SPSS 25.0, and the Chi-square test, and binary logistic regression were performed. Of the sample, 39.6% used screen devices for more than the recommended 2 hours, except for educational purposes. Smartphones (20.6%) and television (25.5%) were the most frequently used devices. The majority (45.1%) of the participants indicated that they routinely check their device screens in the absence of any incoming notifications, while 38.9% of participants reported increased screen time, and 27.7% reported constantly feeling an urge to use them. Mother's occupation (p=0.05), parental screen devices usage (p=0.01), the availability of television (p=0.01), and the use of screen devices while eating (p=0.001) were associated with excessive screen time. Among the participants, 23.4% had symptoms of severe depression, 18% had severe anxiety, and 19.8% had symptoms of severe stress. Excessive screen usage is significantly associated with depression (p=0.028), anxiety (p=0.048), and stress (p=0.002) among adolescents. Excessive screen time, addictive behaviour and psychological problems are substantially prevalent among adolescents. Awareness, behavioural modification intervention, and balanced screen usage are crucial for promoting their well-being.

Message from the Editor-in-Chief

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

No abstract available.

Message from the Chairperson iRuFARS 2025

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

No abstract available.

Message from the Vice Chancellor

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

No abstract available.

Message from the Dean

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

No abstract available.

Blood Culture Positivity Rates among Babies Admitted to the Premature Baby Unit of a Secondary Care Hospital in Southern Sri Lanka: An Analysis of Microbial Isolates and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Patterns

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Bloodstream infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality among babies in premature baby units (PBU). Periodic monitoring of the antimicrobial sensitivity of the causative organisms in a particular setting is important for the early management of infections in babies. The aim of this study was to determine the proportion of blood culture positivity and to assess the factors associated with bloodstream infections among the babies and the causative microorganisms and their antibiotic susceptibility pattern, isolated in blood cultures of babies with suspected sepsis admitted to PBU at District General Hospital Matara (DGHM). All institution based cross-sectional study was conducted in microbiology laboratory at DG HM to review blood culture reports received from PBU retrospectively. All the consecutive samples from the PBU from January 2021 to December 2022 were included in the study. Data on culture isolates, antibiotic susceptibility patterns and related variables were collected and analysed using SPSS version 25.0. Over the study., 1612 blood cultures had been sent to the laboratory from the PBU. Overall blood culture positivity rate was 9%. The majority of isolates were gram-positive organisms (68%). Coagulase-negative staphylococci (51.6%) were the most common isolates, followed by lactose fermenting coliforms (16%) and Pseudomonas spp. (8%). Amikacin showed a higher sensitivity then gentamicin among gram-negative organisms. Carbapenem resistance was observed in 40.5% of the isolates. Among Staphylococcus aureus 55.6% were methicillin-resistant and 44.4% were methicillin sensitive. Prematurity (p=0.017) and low birth weight (p=0.002) were significantly associated with culture positive sepsis. Preterm and low birth weight were significantly associated with blood stream infections among babies admitted to PBU of DGHM. Coagulase-negative Staphylococci, lactose fermenting coliforms, and Pseudomonas spp. were the predominant causative organisms.

Harm Reduction in Controlling the Burden of Alcohol Use in Sri Lanka: Implications and Future Prospects

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

No Abstract available.

Caregiver Burden and Quality of Life among Family Caregivers of the Elderly in Nuwara Eliya District, Sri Lanka: A Cross-sectional Study

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Family caregivers, often lacking financial, social, and psychological support, bear the primary responsibility for elderly care. Rapidly aging population of Sri Lanka has intensified the demand for family caregivers in eldercare, particularly in rural areas where institutional support is limited. This study aimed to assess the caregiver burden and quality of life (QoL) among family caregivers in the Nuwara Eliya District, Sri Lanka. A descriptive cross- sectional study was conducted in two selected Medical Officer of Health areas in Nuwara Eliya. Data were collected using a pre-tested interviewer- administered questionnaire. The sample included 166 caregivers selected via convenient sampling. The questionnaire comprised three sections: demographic characteristics, caregiver burden assessed using the Sinhala- translated Zarit Caregiver Burden Interview, and QoL measured with the Sinhala-translated Adult Carer Quality of Life Questionnaire. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25.0, applying descriptive and inferential statistics to identify associations between caregiver burden and sociodemographic factors. The mean (±SD) age of caregivers was 51±11 years, with 69% being female. The caregiver burden was negatively correlated with QoL (p<0.01). Moderate to severe caregiver burden was reported by 58%, while 68% reported a mid-level QoL. Higher QoL was linked to Sense of Value (41%) and Support for Caring (35%), whereas financial strain and caregiving stress were major concerns. The caregiver burden was significantly associated with caring choice (p<0.01), caring stress (p<0.01), money matters (p<0.05) and sense of value (p<0.05). Quality of life was significantly associated with support for caring (p<0.01), caring choice (p<0.01), caring stress (p<0.01), financial matters (p<0.01), sense of value (p<0.01). Caregivers in rural Sri Lanka experienced moderate to severe burden, with most reporting a mid-level quality of life. The caregiver burden was negatively associated with QoL. Higher QoL was associated with social support and a sense of value, while financial strain and caregiving stress were major concerns. These findings highlight the urgent need for culturally appropriate interventions that offer emotional, financial, and practical support to caregivers.

Awareness about Dental Fluorosis among Parents of School Children in Selected Schools in Dimbulagala Educational Zone, Polonnaruwa District, Sri Lanka

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Dental fluorosis (DF) is a preventable, common oral health problem characterised by abnormalities in the formation of the enamel structure resulting from repeated exposure to high quantities of fluoride, during critical stage of tooth development. This is the most prevalent among children aged 12-15 years, particularly in regions of Asia and Africa where groundwater contains naturally high levels of fluoride. Parental awareness plays a crucial role in the prevention and early detection of DF, as an essential focus in improving the oral health of children. This study was designed to assess the parental awareness about DF and its associated factors among school children in selected schools in Dimbulagala Educational zone, Polonnaruwa District, Sri Lanka. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 273 parents of the school children, aged 12-14 years in Dimbulgala Educational zone. Students were selected using multi-stage cluster sampling method and data were collected using a self-administrated questionnaire. Data were analysed using SPSS version 26.0. A greater proportion of the parents (n=154 (56.4%) were female and most of the parents were engaged in farming (n=127, 46.5%). A significant proportion of them (n=267, 97.8%) lived in rural areas. Overall, parental awareness of DF was low. Little more than half of the parents (61.9%) were unaware of DF and the role of fluoride as its primary cause. A majority (86.8%) did not know that fluoride was present in their drinking water and toothpaste. Similarly, most parents (n=230, 84.2%) were unaware that excessive fluoride exposure is the main factor contributing to DF. Furthermore, 44.7% of the participants (n=122) were not aware of water sources with high fluoride concentrations. Although no statistically significant association was found between DF awareness and socio-demographic characteristics such as age, gender, and monthly income, there was a significant association between awareness of DF and both the area of residence and parents’ occupation. This study highlights a low level of parental awareness regarding DF including its causes, and the presence of fluoride in commonly used sources. Despite no significant association were observed between awareness and socio-demographic factors such as age, gender or income, significant associations were found with parental occupation and rural residence. Therefore, targeted public health interventions, particularly in rural communities to enhance parental knowledge are essential for the prevention and early identification of DF, ultimately contributing to improved oral health in children

Epidemiology, Risk Factors, Health Literacy and Emerging Diagnostic Approaches of Breast Cancer in Sri Lanka: A Systematic Review

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

A thorough grasp of epidemiology and screening techniques is required due to the increasing incidence of breast cancer in Sri Lanka. This review aims to study breast cancer epidemiology, health literacy and screening methods in Sri Lanka. A systematic search was conducted in Medline, Embase, PUBMED, and AMED databases with studies conducted in Sri Lanka up to 2024. Two independent researchers identified 149 studies, from which data were extracted from 27 eligible studies by the PRISMA guidelines. The quality of the studies was evaluated using the quality assessment tools in the National Institute of Health. The available epidemiological data on breast cancer in Sri Lanka are limited. Contributing factors to the high mortality rate include low health literacy, barriers to care, and delays in diagnosis and treatment. The awareness about breast cancer is low, especially regarding diagnosis and breast self-examination (BSE). The practice of BSE is rare. Health education appears to improve health literacy. Notable breast cancer risk factors are menopause, abortions, passive smoking, age (>45), early menarche (<12 years), late menopause (>55 years), no children, oral contraceptives, alcohol and tobacco use, diabetes, family history, radiation, obesity, and prolonged breastfeeding. The screening and diagnosis tests are mammography, breast self-examination, clinical breast examination, molecular detection, and histology. The limited resources allocated for screening and diagnostic services in Sri Lanka present a significant challenge for early detection and management of diseases. The future paths for the diagnosis are considering genetic variations with advanced molecular methods. Considering the high incidence and limited awareness, the adoption of highly accurate screening and diagnosis techniques, with nationally accessible educational programs about breast cancer awareness is necessary.

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Cognitive Impairment, Depression, and Disability among Older Adults with Chronic Illnesses in Batticaloa, Sri Lanka: A Cross-sectional Study

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Older adults with chronic illnesses are at high risk of developing depression, cognitive impairment, and disability. However, limited research has examined the inter relationships between these conditions in post conflict regions such as Batticaloa, Sri Lanka. This study aimed to assess prevalence and associated factors of depression, cognitive impairment, and disability among older adults with chronic illnesses in Batticaloa, Sri Lanka. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 427 older adults (≥60 years) with chronic illnesses attending follow up clinics at Batticaloa Teaching Hospital. Validated assessment tools were used, including the Geriatric Depression Scale, the World Health Organisation Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0, and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the data. Pearson's correlation was applied to assess the associations between depression, cognitive impairment, and disability. Depression was prevalent in 69% of participants, with 22% experiencing severe symptoms. Cognitive impairment and disability were observed in 68% and 86% of participants, respectively. Depression was significantly correlated with disability (r=0.418, p<0.001), while cognitive impairment was negatively correlated with both depression (r=-0.216, p<0.001) and disability (r=-0.305, p<0.001). This study found that depression, cognitive impairment and disability are highly prevalent among older adults with chronic illnesses in Batticaloa, Sri Lanka. Depression was closely linked to higher levels of disability, while cognitive impairment showed weaker associations with both conditions. The findings point to an urgent need for comprehensive geriatric assessments, community-based rehabilitation programs, and caregiver support mechanisms in Sri Lanka and similar settings.