GPH-International Journal of Health Sciences and Nursing

Influence of Craterispermum schweinfurthi leaf extract on glucose homeostasis in male Wistar rats

Saronee F — 2025-08-12

The present study aims to determine the potential influence of Craterispermum schweinfurthi leaf extract on glucose homeostasis using male Wistar rats as models. 48male Wistar rats were acclimatized and subsequently randomly divided into 6 groups of 8 rats each. Diabetes was induced in all rat groups except Group 1 using alloxan at a dose of 200mg/kg bw administered intraperitonially. Diabetes was confirmed after 72 hours of alloxan administration if the blood glucose level is ≥ 11.1 mmol/L (200mg/dl) and was daily treated with different concentrations of extract.Compared to group 2 (Untreated Diabetic) rats, administration of graded doses ofthe extract of Craterispermum schweinfurthi amongstGroups 3, 4 and 5 rats demonstrated a dose dependent significant reduction (p<0.05)in blood glucose level and glycosylated hemoglobin concentrationwith the highest dose demonstrating the most impactful outcome. Suggesting a possible hypoglycemic and anti-hyperglycemic effects of the extract. Similar results were observed amongst group 6rats followingadministration of Glibenclamide. Treatment of diabetic rats with hydromethanol leaf extract of Craterispermum schweinfurthi lowered blood glucose level and ameliorated glycosylated hemoglobin concentration in male Wistar rats.

Eating Behaviors of Early Childhood at a Selected Upazila in Bangladesh

Mariam Akter — 2025-08-25

Background: Eating behavior plays a vital role in both the prevention and management of chronic illnesses associated with poor nutrition. Children who are overweight tend to display stronger food responsiveness, derive more enjoyment from eating, and often consume more food in response to emotional cues. The aim of this study was to assess eating behaviors among young children in a selected Upazila of Bangladesh.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included a total of 103 mothers with children aged between 1 and 5 years. Participants were chosen using a convenience sampling method. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire comprising two sections: Part 1 included socio-demographic information, and Part 2 consisted of the Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire (CEBQ). Data analysis was performed using both descriptive and inferential statistics via SPSS version 26.

Results: The study found a moderate overall mean score (2.91 ± 0.33) in children's eating behaviors, with variability observed across the eight subscales of the CEBQ. The average age of participating mothers was 27.75 years (SD = 3.816). Statistically significant associations were observed between children’s eating behaviors and various socio-demographic factors, including mothers’ education level (F = 5.519, p = 0.005), fathers’ education level (F = 7.328, p = 0.000), fathers’ occupation (F = 2.687, p = 0.036), and the number of siblings (r = 0.334, p = 0.001).

Conclusion: The findings highlight meaningful associations between several demographic variables and children's eating behaviors. These results support the need for policy-level initiatives aimed at promoting food security and balanced nutrition during early childhood, with the goal of reducing malnutrition and supporting healthy development in Bangladesh.

BIOPOLITICS, REGULATORY POLITICS, AND FOREIGN POLICY: PUBLIC HEALTH IMPACTS OF DRUG, ALCOHOL, AND TOBACCO ECONOMIES (1981-2025)

Dr. Siddik ARSLAN — 2025-12-02

This study examines the effects of drug, alcohol, and tobacco economies on public health during the period 1981-2025 at the intersection of biopolitics, regulatory politics, and foreign policy. The population management strategies of modern states are shaped not only within national borders but also through international cooperation mechanisms. The research questions how states' regulatory approaches to these three economic domains serve functions of legitimizing health protection while simultaneously providing diplomatic advantages and strengthening security strategies. The theoretical framework of the study presents an original analytical perspective by integrating Foucault's biopolitical approach with the institutional tools of regulatory politics and the strategic dimension of foreign policy. The analysis conducted using qualitative research methods reveals the transformation of global governance structures, the reshaping of state sovereignty practices, and the role of international organizations in enhancing regulatory capacity. The findings demonstrate that health-based justifications are integrated with security and economic discourses, regulatory policies are shaped by compliance with international norms, yet the concern for protecting national interests does not narrow sovereignty domains. The study reveals that border security and smuggling control are fundamental areas where biopolitical strategies materialize, and the influence of multinational corporations on regulatory processes is increasing. In conclusion, future biopolitical strategies need to be integrated with global processes such as climate change, migration movements, and digital transformation, and supported by democratic participation and accountability mechanisms.

Patients’ Awareness Regarding Eye Care at Community Vision Center in Bangladesh

Maynul Hasan — 2025-12-14

Background: Visual impairment is a critical public health challenge, with significant burdens in Bangladesh exacerbated by an urban-rural disparity in eye care resources. The establishment of Community Vision Centers (CVCs) aims to decentralize and improve access to primary eye care. However, the success of this initiative is contingent on patients' awareness and health-seeking behavior. This study assessed the level and determinants of eye care awareness among patients utilizing CVCs in Bangladesh.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2023 to October 2024 at two CVCs in the Dhaka and Rangpur divisions. Using a multi-stage sampling technique, 165 patients were selected. Data were collected via a validated, interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire. Awareness was assessed using a 10-item Likert scale and categorized into low, moderate, and high levels. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, employing descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, and correlation analyses.

Results: The mean age of participants was 41.61 (±15.64) years, with a majority being female (55.8%), rural residents (68.5%), and having moderate income. Overall, 54.5% of patients had high awareness and 45.5% had moderate awareness; no patients had low awareness. However, critical knowledge gaps were identified: 78.2% had no prior knowledge of eye care, 64.8% were unaware of the CVC before their visit, and 62.4% were unaware that diabetes and hypertension increase eye disease risk. Awareness was significantly higher among younger, more educated, urban, and higher-income patients (p<0.05). Prior knowledge of eye care and information about the CVC were also strong predictors of higher awareness scores (p<0.001).

Conclusion: While aggregate awareness levels were moderate to high, significant socio-economic disparities and specific knowledge deficits persist. The CVC model is well-received but requires integrated, targeted public health education campaigns focused on vulnerable populations to address awareness gaps and maximize utilization.