REVIEW ARTICLE | May 5, 2025
Medical Maydays at 35,000 Feet: Navigating In-Flight Medical Emergencies-from Turbulence to Differential Diagnosis and Treatment
Hayatu Umar, Isa Omokhudu Oboirien, Raghu Cherukupalli, Nura Maiyadi Ibrahim, Shawkat Salih Miro, Abdul Habu, Musa Mohammad Baba, Hizbullahi Kamba Sani
Page no 204-226 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjm.2025.v10i05.001
In-flight medical emergencies (IMEs) are unforeseen acute medical events, though rare demand prompt recognition and effective treatment intervention due to their unpredictable nature and high risk of dismal prognosis if not appropriately manage promptly. These emergencies pose significant challenges for cabin crew and any medical professionals mid-air due to limited medical resources onboard. These events present diversely, from syncope and seizures to dyspnea, chest pain, traumatic injuries and sudden death, often causing fear and distress among everyone onboard. Misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate treatment intervention, poor outcomes, and costly flight diversions. Consequently, a thorough understanding of IMEs is crucial for both cabin crew and medical professionals. This requires sound theoretical knowledge, focused history-taking, a high index of suspicion, clinical skills, competencies, meticulous physical examination, clinical reasoning, investigation with point of care devices, well-defined management strategies and treatment protocols, comprehensive cabin crew training and retraining, effective use of telemedicine and technological applications, and research specific to IMEs. With growing air travel volume, an aging global population, and a rising prevalence of cardiometabolic diseases, IMEs are expected to become more frequent. This necessitates optimizing emergency responses and preparedness measures, to enhance passenger safety and reduce flight disruptions. This review explores various aspects of IMEs, including their aetiologies, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, differential diagnosis, management, and the vital roles of cabin crew and any medical professionals present, along with the pressing need for integrating training program and curricula on IMEs in medical, allied health and flight attendant institutions worldwide. Furthermore, the review underscores the importance of in-flight clinical vigilance, the supportive role of telemedicine, and the impact of onboard automated external defibrillators in improving passenger outcomes. Ultimately, strong and continuous collaboration between the medical and aviation sectors is essential for a safer travel experience for everyone.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | May 9, 2025
Spatial Patterns of Particulate Matter and Respiratory Health Risks in Parts of Port Harcourt Metropolis
Obinna R.O, Oparaocha E.T, Paul J. N, Okaba A.E, Igiri V.C, Ogbonda P.N, Inah S.A, Okoi O.C, Cookey-Gam I.F, Ihua C. W, Elijah S.O, Odimabo M
Page no 227-232 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjm.2025.v10i05.002
The rapid and continuous growth of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, have contributed to a surge in vehicular traffic, prompting concerns regarding air pollution and its health implications. This study to analyzed the spatial distribution of Particulate Matter (PM) in Port Harcourt and their possible effects on the respiratory health of residents of Port Harcourt Metropolis. Utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for mapping, air quality monitoring, this study identified pollution hotspots and investigated the prevalence of related respiratory health risks. The results demonstrate significant variations in PM concentrations across the study area, with high-emission zones associated with elevated rates of some respiratory illnesses. These findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions in air quality management and public health policies to reduce the detrimental effects of PM on respiratory health.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | May 14, 2025
Understanding Fishermen Attitude and Factors Influencing Oil Spillage in Biseni Community of Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Adobeni Emmanuel Dennis, Tensaba Andes Akafa, Solomon Ossom Asare, Daniel Konka, Smile Kobina Ametsi, Issifu Tahidu
Page no 233-240 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjm.2025.v10i05.003
Background: Oil spillage is a global issue that has been occurring since the discovery of crude oil, which was part of the industrial revolution. The volume of oil spillage in the ocean, sea, river through human activities is estimated to range from 0.7 – 1.7 million tons per year in Niger Delta region. This study assessed the attitude towards oil spillage among fishermen in Biseni community of Bayelsa State. Methodology: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in Biseni community of Yenagoa LGA. Three hundred and fifty-eight respondents were selected from the community using systemic random sampling technique. A semi- structured interviewer administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Data entry was carried out using SPSS version 16. Results: Three hundred and thirty-eight (94.4%) of the respondents identified corrosion due to soil factors as a major cause of oil spillage, 84.1% attributed oil spillage to unemployment, 86.3% sabotage by surveillances contractors and 85.2% by pipeline vandalism as factors responsible for oil spillage. Majority of the respondents (98.0%) identified water pollution as the major effect of oil spillage on aquatic life. Three hundred and forty-seven (96.9%) of the respondents identified health problem and mainly skin rash (32.0%) as the major effect of oil spillage on fishermen while other effect include reduction in income (95.5%). Perceived justification of respondents for oil spillage include unemployment (91.9%), increasing the rate of kidnapping (79.6%), lack of compensation (80.4%), relocation (35.8%), driving people away from their original settlement (91.9%) and buying of water for drinking and domestic uses (70.4%). Conclusion: Biseni community has experienced serious degradation due to oil exploitation and exploration activities that has resulted in oil spillage. Oil spillage has caused displacement of people, involuntary migration, destruction of wildlife and biodiversity, loss of fertile soil, Pollution of drinking water, degradation of farmland and damage to aquatic lives, all of which have caused serious health problems to the fishermen. It was also confirmed from the respondents that they were not compensated for the damage of their farms and water for fishing.
CASE REPORT | May 15, 2025
Fibrous Dysplasia of the Sphenoid and Ethmoid Bones – A Rare Benign Entity with a Destructive Potential
Laamarti Hajar, Ouattassi Naouar, Ridal Mohamed, Benmansour Najib, Zaki Zouheir, Oudidi Abdellatif, El Alami Mohamed Noureddine
Page no 241-246 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjm.2025.v10i05.004
Background: Fibrous dysplasia (FD) of bone is a rare sporadic benign congenital condition in which normal bone is replaced by fibro-osseous tissue with immature osteogenesis. Sarcomatous transformation is exceptional. The most common presenting features in craniofacial forms include atypical facial pain and headaches. Case Presentations: we report here 2 cases, that of a 36 year old male and of a 43 female, who both presented with a similar history of headaches. The male patient refused surgery so removal of the diseased bone was not an option. However, as the limited growth of this lesion have been established, only further, albeit close, observation was planned. The female patient underwent a successful removal of her tumour through an endoscopic approach. At the 1.5 year follow-up, she remains disease free. Conclusion: craniofacial fibrous dysplasia can present itself in myriad ways, therefore, the diagnosis should always be considered in case of headache, neuralgia or sensory disorders. Modern imaging modalities and histopathologic analysis have made the diagnosis reasonably straightforward. A medico-surgical approach is useful for these patients. Surgery ―when indicated― is tailored to the specific clinical presentation. The goal is to be as minimally invasive as possible while still achieving the desired outcome, prioritizing the preservation of existing function.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | May 19, 2025
Assessing the Perceptions, Usage Patterns, and Health Outcomes of Vaping as a Harm Reduction Strategy among Current and Former Smokers in the United Arab Emirates: A Cross-Sectional Study
Areej Alkhalil AlHurh, Nashwa Essam Dyab
Page no 247-255 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjm.2025.v10i05.005
Background: Smoking remains a significant public health concern in the UAE, with efforts to reduce its prevalence facing various challenges. Vaping has emerged as a potential harm reduction strategy, yet little is known about its perceptions, usage patterns, and health outcomes among smokers and ex-smokers in the country. This study aims to assess the perceptions of vaping, its usage patterns, and self-reported health outcomes among current and former smokers in the UAE. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among adults and ex-smokers across the UAE. A structured questionnaire will collect data on demographics, smoking and vaping history, perceived harm reduction, usage patterns, and self-reported health effects. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression models were analyzed for the data. Results: In the research, 290 participants identified as male (93.1%), with their mean age at 34.7 years (±9.2). Most individuals who started vaping were between 19 and 25 years of age (52.8%). Current smokers evaluated vaping more favorably than former smokers on all key dimensions, although harm reduction, harm reduction support, and social approval ratings proved particularly significant (p < 0.01). Former smokers provided evidence showing they consider vaping to be a substance with addictive properties (p < 0.001) aimed at youth (p < 0.01) and dangerous to use occasionally (p < 0.01). A significant number of 41.4% of participants showed better respiratory symptom improvement following vaping, yet this response was more prominent among former smokers at 58.3% than current smokers at 39.0% (p < 0.005). Commitment to conventional smoking increased the risk of adverse effects between 21.65% for active smokers and 16.7% for previous users (p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression identified former smoking status (AOR = 2.8, p < 0.001), strong belief in vaping as a cessation aid (AOR = 1.9, p < 0.001), and higher education (AOR = 1.6, p = 0.04) as significant predictors of exclusive e-cigarette use. Conclusion: Ex-smokers gain greater advantages from vaping, but existing cigarette users mostly suffer additional negative consequences and reduced positive outcomes. Vaping behavior strongly depends on how much individuals believe vaping harms them, works as a substitute, or fits into their social environment based on their smoking status. The promotion of exclusive e-cigarette usage for cessation requires complete educational programs, together with strict regulation measures and persistent assessment of health results.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | May 27, 2025
Prevalence of Depression and Anxiety among Chronic Illness Patients in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Bilkis Sultana, Kowsar Ahmed, Rana M Pir, Mohammed Sakir Ahmed, Syeda Rafiquen Nessa, Md. Sadequr Rahman
Page no 256-262 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjm.2025.v10i05.006
Background: Chronic illnesses are increasingly prevalent worldwide and often coexist with psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety, which negatively impact patients’ quality of life, treatment adherence, and clinical outcomes. Despite this burden, data on the prevalence of depression and anxiety among hospitalized chronic illness patients in Bangladesh, especially in tertiary care, remain limited. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression and anxiety among chronic illness patients admitted into medicine department at Al Haramain Hospital, Sylhet and to explore associated demographic and clinical factors. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April 2023 to March 2024 where 302 adult patients were diagnosed with chronic diseases. Depression and anxiety were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scales. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected through structured interviews and medical records. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. Results: Among patients, 38.4% were aged over 60 years, and 53.6% were male. Diabetes Mellitus (35.8%) and Hypertension (31.8%) were the most common chronic illnesses. Most patients (43.0%) had illness duration exceeding five years. Depression was identified in 72.2% of patients, predominantly mild (31.8%) and moderate (24.5%). Anxiety was present in 68.2%, mainly mild (33.8%) and moderate (21.2%). Females had higher rates of depression (76.4%) and anxiety (71.4%) than males. Depression prevalence increased with illness duration, reaching 78.5% among those ill for over five years, and was highest in patients with chronic kidney disease (81%) and diabetes (76.9%). Overall, 47.4% experienced mental health issues; 20.5% had both depression and anxiety. Conclusion: Routine mental health screening and integrated interventions are urgently needed in chronic illness care to improve outcomes and quality of life. Multidisciplinary approaches including mental health professionals are recommended, alongside further multicenter research to develop culturally appropriate interventions in Bangladesh.
REVIEW ARTICLE | May 29, 2025
Systemic Consequences and Effects of Interprofessional Rivalry on Health Systems and Services in Abuja: A Systematic Review
Amos Dangana, Bwede Eugene Samuel, Mangpin Leviticus Dansura, Helen Daniel Nanbol, Nkiruka Lynda Uzoebo, Nanpon Miri, Chinwe N. Ugwu, Emmanuel Sunday Badung, Adeyanju Temitope Peter, Philip. D. Dahida, Joseph Golwa
Page no 263-269 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjm.2025.v10i05.007
Background: Interprofessional rivalry marked by competition, a lack of collaboration, and role conflicts among healthcare professionals has become a major hurdle in health systems, especially in low- and middle-income areas like Abuja, Nigeria. These tensions can really undermine teamwork, the quality of care, and overall health outcomes. Even though there's increasing concern about this issue, we haven't fully explored how such rivalry impacts service delivery and the performance of the health system in Abuja. Objectives: The goal of this systematic review is twofold: first, to gather and synthesize existing evidence on how interprofessional rivalry shows up and what drives it within the health system; and second, to evaluate the effects of this rivalry on health services. Methodology: To do this, we conducted a thorough search across various databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, African Journals Online (AJOL), and Google Scholar, looking for both peer-reviewed and grey literature. We included studies that examined interprofessional dynamics in health facilities. Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed quality using PRISMA guidelines, and we applied thematic synthesis to bring together both qualitative and quantitative findings. Discussion: Our review revealed ongoing rivalry between key professional groups, particularly between doctors and allied health workers. This rivalry is often fueled by perceived inequalities in leadership, pay, and recognition. Such tensions lead to fragmented care, poor communication, high staff turnover, and resistance to collaborative policy efforts. The broader systemic effects include weakened governance, flawed referral systems, and compromised patient safety. Additionally, context-specific issues like weak regulatory oversight and the politicization of professional bodies make the situation even worse. Conclusion: Interprofessional rivalry in the health sector has significant systemic implications that jeopardize the quality, equity, and sustainability of health services. There’s an urgent need for targeted interventions to address these challenges.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | May 29, 2025
Applications of Biostatistics in Healthcare, Public Health, Epidemiology, and Beyond
Dr. Yazeed Sakarna, Dr. Sruthi Kalakota, Dr. Anupa Gottipati, Dr. Pantea Kaviandost, Dr. Kiranprasad Chileveru, Dr. Ridhi Bhola, Dr. Sandeep Singh
Page no 270-276 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjm.2025.v10i05.008
Biostatistics stands at the forefront of health sciences, serving as a vital link between raw data and meaningful health insights. This review explores the foundational principles of biostatistics and highlights its diverse applications across clinical trials, epidemiology, genomics, public health policy, environmental health, and healthcare quality assurance. By employing statistical tools such as probability theory, regression models, and machine learning techniques, biostatistics enables researchers to decode complex datasets, evaluate risk factors, and assess the effectiveness of medical and public health interventions. Special attention is given to the role of biostatistics in shaping evidence-based policies, driving precision medicine, and improving health outcomes. The review also addresses the pressing need to integrate biostatistics education at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, noting the gaps in statistical literacy among healthcare professionals. Common errors in statistical interpretation, such as misuse of summary measures and misunderstanding of p-values and confidence intervals, are discussed to emphasize the importance of accurate application. In conclusion, biostatistics not only enhances the scientific rigor of health research but also ensures data-driven decision-making in clinical and public health practice.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | May 29, 2025
Upper GI Lesions Associated with HIV Infection
Y. Aroudam, M. Salihoun, F. Bouhamou, S. El Aoula, I. Serraj, M. Acharki, N. Kabbaj
Page no 277-278 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjm.2025.v10i05.009
Introduction: HIV infection is frequently responsible for a variety of digestive manifestations, both infectious and tumoral in origin. Upper GI endoscopy is a key diagnostic tool. Materials and methods: This study aims to describe the endoscopic aspects of upper digestive lesions in patients with HIV infection (PLHIV). Conducted between July 2017 and July 2024. Results: this study included 28 PLHIV patients who underwent oesophago-duodenal fibroscopy (FOGD) + Biopsies. The most frequently observed lesions were congestive gastritis (59.2%), mycotic esophagitis (25%) and erosive gastritis (22%). Histological study confirmed a predominance of chronic gastritis associated with Helicobacter pylori (77%). Conclusion: These results confirm the importance of endoscopy in the diagnosis and management of digestive complications of HIV.