Recent advances in promising drugs for primary prevention of gastroesophageal variceal bleeding with cirrhotic portal hypertension

Background:Gastroesophageal variceal bleeding is one of the most severe complications of patients with cirrhosis.Although primary prevention drugs,including non-selectiveβ-blockers,have effectively reduced the incidence of bleeding,their efficacy is limited due to side effects and related contraindications.With recent advances in precision medicine,precise drug treatment provides better treatment efficacy.Data sources:Literature search was conducted in PubMed,MEDLINE and Web of Science for relevant articles published up to May 2022.Information on clinical trials was obtained from https://clinicaltrials.gov/and http://www.chictr.org.cn/.Results:The in-depth understanding of the pathogenesis and advances of portal hypertension has enabled the discovery of multiple molecular targets for promising drugs.According to the site of action,these drugs could be classified into four classes:intrahepatic,extrahepatic,both intrahepatic and extrahepatic targets and others.All these classes of drugs offer advantages over traditional treatments in prevention of gastroesophageal variceal bleeding in patients with cirrhotic portal hypertension.Conclusions:This review classified and summarized the promising drugs,which prevent gastroesophageal variceal bleeding by targeting specific markers of pathogenesis of portal hypertension,demonstrating the significance of using the precision medicine strategy to discover and develop promising drugs for the primary prevention of gastroesophageal variceal bleeding in patients with cirrhotic portal hypertension.

Plasma big endothelin-1 is an effective predictor for ventricular arrythmias and end-stage events in primary prevention implantable cardioverter-defibrillator indication patients

Objective To investigate whether plasma big endothelin-1(ET-1) predicts ventricular arrythmias(VAs) and end-stage events in primary prevention implantable cardioverter-defibrillator(ICD) indication patigents. Methods In total, 207 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria from Fuwai Hospital between January 2013 and December 2015 were retrospectively analyzed. The cohort was divided into three groups according to baseline plasma big ET-1 tertiles: tertile 1(< 0.38 pmol/L, n = 68), tertile 2(0.38–0.7 pmol/L, n = 69), and tertile 3(> 0.7 pmol/L, n = 70). The primary endpoints were VAs. The secondary endpoints were end-stage events comprising all-cause mortality and heart transplantation. Results During a mean follow-up period of 25.6 ± 13.9 months, 38(18.4%) VAs and 78(37.7%) end-stage events occurred. Big ET-1 was positively correlated with NYHA class(r = 0.165, P = 0.018), serum creatinine concentration(Scr;r = 0.147, P = 0.034), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein(hs-CRP;r = 0.217, P = 0.002), Lg NT-pro BNP(r = 0.463, P < 0.001), left ventricular end diastolic diameter(LVEDD;r = 0.234, P = 0.039) and negatively correlated with left ventricular ejection fraction(LVEF;r =-0.181, P = 0.032). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that elevated big ET-1 was associated with increased risk of VAs and end-stage events(P < 0.05). In multivariate Cox regression models, big ET-1 was an independent risk factor for VAs(hazard ratio(HR) = 3.477, 95% confidence interval(CI): 1.352–8.940, P = 0.010, tertile 2 vs. tertile 1;HR = 4.112, 95% CI: 1.604–10.540, P = 0.003, tertile 3 vs. tertile 1) and end-stage events(HR = 2.804, 95% CI: 1.354–5.806, P = 0.005, tertile 2 vs. tertile 1;HR = 4.652, 95% CI: 2.288–9.459, P < 0.001, tertile 3 vs. tertile 1). Conclusions In primary prevention ICD indication patients, plasma big ET-1 levels can predict VAs and end-stage events and may facilitate ICD-implantation risk stratification.

Healthy diet,depression and quality of life:A narrative review of biological mechanisms and primary prevention opportunities

Unipolar depressive disorder(UDD)affects more than 264 million people worldwide and was projected well before the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic to be the leading cause of disability-adjusted life years lost in 2030.It is imperative for leading economies to implement preventive strategies targeted towards UDD,given consistent policies are currently lacking.Recently established similarities between the aetiological hypotheses of depression and cardiometabolic diseases are shifting paradigms within this field.It is believed that dietary practices could potentially reduce the incidence of depression;similar to their effects on metabolism.Thus,the aim of this review was to compile current evidence on healthy dietary patterns as suitable contributors towards primary prevention strategies against UDD.Most of the well-known biological mechanisms behind depression have been positively associated with healthful diets and dietary patterns to varying degrees.Interestingly,a common factor of UDD is the production and overall effects of inflammatory cytokines,such as interleukin-6,tumor necrosis factor-α,and Creactive protein.These compounds have been associated with depressive symptoms,disturbances in neuroendocrine function,leaky gut,monoamine activity and brain function,while also being key factors in the development of cardiometabolic diseases.The Mediterranean diet(MD)in particular,is well supported by first-level evidence regarding its preventive qualities against metabolic and cardiovascular diseases and thus considered a model for healthy eating by various organizations.In one of the few clinical trials investigating these associations,the PREDIMED trial,individuals with diabetes assigned to a MD supplemented with mixed tree nuts experienced a 41%relative risk reduction for developing depression.Lastly,there is a need to include health related quality of life as an indicator of physical and mental well-being,considering its putative associations with depression and suicide risk.Going forward,focusing on clinical trials,using precise nutritional assessments,and identifying nutritional biomarkers which may be related to depression are needed to fully support the implementation of dietary recommendations in the field of psychiatry.

Evidence in Primary Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus—What It Means for Primary Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Epidemic in Papua New Guinea

Type 2 diabetes is in epidemic proportion in Papua New Guinea. Although many people are at high-risk of developing diabetes, there is no diabetes prevention policy and services in Papua New Guinea to address this problem. A literature search was carried out to assess the available evidence in the primary prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus among the population with pre-diabetes. The result shows that the primary preventative studies conducted on lifestyle modification and the use of metformin in prediabetes patients reduced overt type 2 diabetes mellitus. The application of the evidence in the prevention of the type 2 diabetes epidemic in Papua New Guinea, driven by a policy is feasible to address the diabetes epidemic.

Biological mechanisms and possible primary prevention of depression

Individuals with unipolar depressive disorder(UDD)are having an increased risk of death and development of dementia in later life.It is widely expected that in a near future UDD would be the leading cause of death;therefore,a primary inexpensive prevention of UDD will be of a great importance to the society.Several studies provide evidences supporting the positive effect of Mediterranean diet on a reduced risk for development of depression.

A Critical Evaluation of the Role of Routine Uses of Statin as a Tool for Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases

Use of Statin is a cornerstone in modern day medical practice and an essential component for primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Various evidences exemplify and resonate the importance of Statins in reducing CVD mortality and improvement of survivability. However, there is a continental variation in recent guidelines directing lipid-lowering therapy in regards to aim, dose, timing as well as the protocol for initiation of therapy. Similar uncertainties exist with regards to the generalizability of the finding from available evidence, a variation of benefits of Statin with respect to age and gender, the validity of the research conducted and actual gain in survivability and mortality benefits. Thus, there is a need for looking at the actual indications, risk-benefit ratios and cost effectiveness before tediously prescribing Statin for the primary prevention of CVDs. This paper will attempt to critically review the evidence behind the uses of Statins in the primary prevention of CVDs.

Meta-Analysis of Aspirin for Primary Prevention of Stroke

Objective: This paper aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of aspirin in primary stroke prevention by meta-analysis. Methods: By searching PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, MEDLINE, Web of Science, CNKI, China Biomedical Literature Database, VIP Database and Wanfang Database, we collected randomized controlled trials on aspirin for primary prevention of stroke. The retrieval time limit is from the establishment of the database to December 2021. Two researchers independently conducted literature search, screening, data extraction and quality evaluation, and Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3. Results: A total of 19 articles were included, including 220,636 subjects. Meta-analysis results show that long-term preventive use of aspirin can reduce the incidence of stroke [RR = 0.91, 95% CI (0.85, 0.98), P = 0.009], and reduce the incidence of ischemic stroke [RR = 0.84, 95% CI] (0.77, 0.91), P RR = 0.80, 95% CI (0.72, 0.88), P RR = 0.85, 95% CI (0.75, 0.97), P RR = 1.23, 95% CI (1.04, 1.46), P = 0.01] and gastrointestinal bleeding [RR = 1.62, 95% CI (1.35, 1.93), P RR = 0.97, 95% CI (0.93, 1.02), P = 0.20]. Conclusion: Long-term prophylactic use of aspirin can reduce the overall incidence of stroke, but there is also a risk of bleeding. The advantages and disadvantages of aspirin should be fully evaluated and strict screening should be carried out before medication, which can minimize adverse reactions and improve the safety and effectiveness of aspirin in the primary prevention of stroke.

Chinese expert consensus on primary prevention for pelvic floor dysfunction during pregnancy

Objective Pregnancy has been identified as a risk factor for pelvic floor dysfunction(PFD).The aim of this study was to establish primary prevention measures for PFD during pregnancy and reduce the overall incidence of PFD.Methods We assembled a panel of 36 experts,including gynecologists,obstetricians,and physiotherapists.Through surveys and expert meetings,the panel reviewed and assessed the safety and effectiveness of various clinical interventions.Based on expert comments from Round 1,a revised list of 8 clinical interventions was developed and submitted for a second round of expert review.Results A consensus was reached on the importance of implementing prevention measures to protect pelvic floor function during pregnancy.Experts particularly emphasized the significance of health education,weight management,pelvic floor muscle training,respiratory training,overall exercise,physical activity,and perineal massage.Conclusion The expert consensus provides comprehensive clinical measures to safeguard pelvic floor function during pregnancy.This paper represents the initial step toward developing scientific recommendations for pregnant women regarding the primary prevention of PFD.Future research should focus on the implementation of these recommendations in clinical practice.

‘Prediabetes’ as a practical distinctive window for workable fruitful wonders: Prevention and progression alert as advanced professionalism

Diabetes is a devastating public health problem.Prediabetes is an intermediate stage in the disease processes leading to diabetes,including types 1 and 2 diabetes.In the article“Prediabetes in children and adolescents:An updated review,”the authors presented current evidence.We simplify and systematically clearly present the evidence and rationale for a conceptual framework we term the‘3ASs’:(1)Awareness Sensible;(2)Algorithm Simple;and(3)Appealing Strategies.Policy makers and the public need to be alerted.The prevalence of prediabetes should send alarm bells ringing for parents,individuals,clinicians,and policy makers.Prediabetes is defined by the following criteria:impaired fasting glucose(100-125 mg/dL);impaired glucose tolerance(2 h postprandial glucose 140-199 mg/dL);or hemoglobin A1c values of 5.7%–6.4%.Any of the above positive test alerts for intervention.Clinical guidelines do not recommend prioritizing one test over the others for evaluation.Decisions should be made on the strengths and shortfalls of each test.Patient preferences and test accessibility should be taken into consideration.An algorithm based on age,physiological stage,health status,and risk factors is provided.Primordial prevention targeting populations aims to eliminate risk factors through public education and encouraging practices through environmental modifications.Access to healthy foods is provided.Primary prevention is for individuals with a prediabetes diagnosis and involves a structured program to reduce body weight and increase physical activity along with a healthy diet.An overall methodical move to a healthy lifestyle for lifelong health is urgently needed.Early energetic prediabetes action is necessary.

Primary prevention of sudden cardiac death by implantable cardioverter-defibrillator therapy in Chinese patients with heart failure： a single-center experience

Background An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator （ICD） has been suggested for heart failure patients for primary prevention of sudden cardiac death. However, few data have been reported on the application of ICD as primary prevention of sudden cardiac death in China. We evaluated the value of primary prevention ICD therapy in Chinese patients with heart failure.Methods Thirty-four patients at an average age of （60.2±13.7） years seen in Peking Union Medical College Hospital were treated with ICD implantation for primary prevention of sudden cardiac death from November 2005 to July 2009. Single-chamber ICDs were implanted in 16 （47.0%） cases, and dual-chamber or cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillators in 18 （53.0%） cases. The patients had an average left ventricular ejection fraction of （26.9±5.5）% （11% to 35%）, of which 18 （53.0%） patients had ischemic cardiomyopathy and 16 （47.0%） patients had non-ischemic cardiomyopathy. All patients were followed up at three months after the implantation and every six months thereafter or when prompted by an ICD event.Results There were five （14.7%） deaths, including two of heart failure and three with a non-cardiac course, during an average follow-up of （15.0±11.9） months. Forty-one ICD therapy events were recorded, including 19 （46.3%） appropriate ICD therapies in six patients and 22 （53.7%） inappropriate ICD therapies in four patients with single chamber leads. Inappropriate ICD therapies were mainly due to supraventricular tachyarrhythmias, especially atrial fibrillation. Patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy and non-ischemic cardiomyopathy did not differ in the incidence of either appropriate or inappropriate therapy.Conclusions ICD for primary prevention of sudden cardiac death in China prevents patients from arrhythmia death. Relatively high incidence of inappropriate therapies highlights the importance of an atrial lead.

Physical activity in primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease:Overview updated

Although the observed progress in the cardiovascular disease treatment, the incidence of new and recurrent coronary artery disease remains elevated and constitutes the leading cause of death in the developed countries. Three-quarters of deaths due to cardiovascular diseases could be prevented with adequate changes in lifestyle, including increased daily physical activity. New evidence confirms that there is an inverse dose-response relationship between physical activity and cardiovascular disease and mortality risk. However, participation in moderate to vigorous physical activity may not fully attenuate the independent effect of sedentary activities on increased risk for cardiovascular diseases. Physical activity also plays an important role in secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases by reducing the impact of the disease, slowing its progress and preventing recurrence. Nonetheless, most of eligible cardiovascular patients still do not benefit from secondary prevention/cardiac rehabilitation programs. The present review draws attention to the importance of physical activity in the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases. It also addresses the mechanisms by which physical activity and regular exercise can improve cardiovascular health and reduce the burden of the disease.

Chinese Guideline on the Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality in China.Primary prevention of cardiovascular disease with a focus on lifestyle intervention and risk factor control has been shown to effectively delay or prevent the occurrence of cardiovascular events.To promote a healthy lifestyle and enhance the detection,diagnosis,and treatment of cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension,dyslipidemia,and diabetes,and to improve the overall capacity of primary prevention of cardiovascular disease,the Chinese Society of Cardiology of Chinese Medical Association has collaborated with multiple societies to summarize and evaluate the latest evidence with reference to relevant guidelines and subsequently to develop recommendations for primary cardiovascular disease prevention in Chinese adults.The guideline consists of 10 sections:introduction,methodology for developing the guideline,epidemiology of cardiovascular disease in China and challenges in primary prevention,general recommendations for primary prevention,assessment of cardiovascular risk,lifestyle intervention,blood pressure control,lipid management,management of type 2 diabetes,and use of aspirin.The promulgation and implementation of this guideline will play a key role in promoting the practice of primary prevention for cardiovascular disease in China.

Effect of primary prevention of implantable cardioverter defibrillator on sudden cardiac death in 24 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy

Objective To study the effect of primary prevention of implantable cardioverter defibrillator(ICD)on sudden cardiac death(SCD)in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy.Methods A total of 36 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy treated in our hospital from 2013-12 to2014-12 were studied including 29(80.6%)male and 7(19.4%)female with the mean age of(63±11.8)

Molecular therapy and prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in some areas of the world with an extremely poor prognosis. The major etiologic risk factors for HCC development include hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, toxins (alcohol, aflatoxin BI) and various inherited metabolic liver diseases, such as hemochromatosis and alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency. Central to the molecular pathogenesis of HCC are mutations of various genes and genetic/chromosomal instability that result from chronic liver disease and the associated enhanced liver cell regeneration and mitotic activity. Alterations in the structure or expression of several tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes have been described. In addition, mechanisms leading to genetic instability due to mismatch repair deficiency or chromosomal instability and aneuploidy due to defective chromosomal segregation appear to be involved. The prognosis of HCC patients is generally very poor. Most studies have shown a five-year survival rate of less than 5% in symptomatic patients. HCC has been found to be quite resistant to radio- or chemotherapy. Investigations of the natural history and clinical course of HCC revealed a long-term survival of patients only with small asymptomatic HCC that could be treated surgically or nonsurgically. For patients with advanced symptomatic HCC, novel therapeutic strategies such as gene therapy are urgently needed. Apart from exploring and refining new HCC treatment strategies, the implementation of the existing measures or the development of novel measures to prevent HCC is most important. Primary HCC prevention could have a major impact on the incidence of HCC. Further, secondary prevention of a local recurrence or of new HCC lesions in patients after successful surgical or nonsurgical HCC treatment is of paramount importance and is expected to significantly improve disease-free and overall survival rates of patients. Based on rapid scientific advances, molecular diagnosis, gene therapy and molecular prevention are becoming increasingly part of our patient management and will eventually complement or in part replace the existing diagnostic, therapeutic and preventive strategies. Overall, this should result in a reduced HCC incidence and an improved clinical outcome for patients with HCC, one of the most devastating malignancies worldwide.

Lifestyle, Biological Risk Markers, Morbidity and Mortality in a Cohort of Men 33 - 42 Years Old at Baseline, after 24-Year Follow-Up of a Primary Health Care Intervention

Objective: To study changes in lifestyle and biological risk markers in a 24-year follow-up study, and occurrences of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), cancer and total mortality from official registers. Design: A 24-year follow-up survey and register study of a cohort of men 33 - 42 years old, examined with a health profile at baseline. With the health profile based on lifestyle, biological risk markers, self-rated mental stress and mental health, the men were separated in different risk groups. Setting: Primary health care center of Habo in Sweden. Subjects: All 757 men, 33 - 42 years old, and living in the community of Habo in Sweden in 1985. Main Outcome Measures: Lifestyle, biological risk markers, morbidity from CVD and cancer, and total mortality. Results: Smoking and physical activity decreased during follow-up time while alcohol consumption increased. Biological risk markers, except diastolic blood pressure, deteriorated significantly with age. Based on three- lifestyle groups, 16 % of the men had a more favorable lifestyle and 19% had a less favorable life-style at follow-up compared with baseline. The men, who had been classified as high-risk, based on the health profile at baseline, had a significantly higher incidence of CVD and cancer in the register study compared to men in a low-risk group. The baseline non-participant group had a significantly higher incidence of CVD and a higher mortality compared to the low-risk group. Conclusion: A health profile with a combination of lifestyle factors and biological risk markers can already at the age of 33 - 42 years predict incidence of CVD and cancer on group level among men after 24 years.

Observation on Effect of Gennlanchun (更年春) In Preventing Experimental Primary Osteoporosis

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of Genni-anchun (GNC) in preventing primary osteoporosis. Methods: Fifty female SD rats of 10 - 12 months old were randomly divided into five groups. Except those in the sham operation group, animals were ovariectomized bilaterally. The gastric perfusion was started immediately after operation, with normal saline to the sham operation group and model group; GNC to high dose (2 ml) and low dos (1 ml) GNC groups and Nilestriol to the NE group, every day for 3 months. Animals were sacrificed at the end of experiment, their vertebra and

Promoting Health Behavior Change in Canada: A Quality Improvement Project Integrating Prevention and Wellness in Frontline Care

Background: The critical need for Health Behaviour Change (HBC) for preventative care has been highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This quality improvement project assessed the effectiveness and acceptability of Fountain of Health HBC tools as a minimal intervention for primary and secondary prevention among Canadian clinicians and their patients. Methods: Clinicians received HBC education and tools (paper tools and app-based) to assist their patients in setting a S.M.A.R.T (Specific, Measurable, Action-oriented, Realistic, Time-limited) goal at baseline and assessed four weeks later. Primary outcome measures were: 1) patient self-report of success at goal attainment;2) patient self-reported evaluation of change in well-being and health attitudes;and 3) clinician experience and engagement. Results: A total of 2184 clinicians received HBC education. Of these, 759 clinicians registered to participate in the project. 961 patients set S.M.A.R.T. HBC goals using either the paper tools (PT) or the app format. Patient data revealed nearly all patients (89% of PT users and 90% of app users) at least partially succeeded in attaining their goal at a four-week follow-up. Most patients (85% of PT and 80% of app users) also reported improvement in their well-being. A significant difference in health beliefs and attitudes was found in both PT (p < 0.001) and app users (p = 0.003). Conclusions: HBC is challenging. Educating and providing clinicians with HBC tools as a minimal intervention was found to be a successful health prevention strategy to improve patient well-being and health attitudes, and achieve S.M.A.R.T. goals. Results show HBC tools, education, and support for clinicians are both acceptable and effective for HBC in frontline care. These findings are relevant and timely given greater reliance on virtual care in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Further research with rigorous methodology is needed to implement programs to achieve sustainable HBC to promote health on a large scale.

The Evidenced Effects of Early Childhood Interventions to Promote Mental Health and Parenting in the Nordic Countries: A Systematic Review

Thefirst years of life and the family context are key to the promotion and protection of children’s health and well-being,emphasizing the need for interventions aimed to support families with young children.This review aimed to explore the effectiveness of early childhood interventions developed for promoting mental health and parenting among families with young children in the Nordic countries.Six electronic databases were systematically searched,and 20 articles covering 16 studies applying various quantitative and qualitative methods met the study inclusion criteria.The studied interventions were assessed as universal health-promoting interventions and health-promoting interventions with elements of prevention.Outcomes of interest encompassed mental health,related risk and protective factors among the parents and/or the children,or child-parent interaction.The results from studies applying statistical methods show significant improvements in parents’self-efficacy,self-esteem,and parental satisfaction,while few improvements in parents’social support or parental relationship were identified.Improvements in social support and parental relationships were however reported in qualitative studies.Most quantitative studies reporting on parents’mental health problems and stress found a significant decrease,and qualitative studies highlighted experienced positive effects on mental health and well-being.The majority of stu-dies reporting on children’s mental health and/or development as well as strengths and difficulties indicated a statistically significant positive development.No significant changes were however found for existing behavioral problems.The majority of studies examining parenting strategies and/or parent-child interaction found signifi-cant positive changes after the interventions.In sum,althoughfindings are heterogeneous,early childhood inter-ventions show various positive effects on the parenting and mental health of both children and their parents.The fact that different types of initiatives have been developed and implemented can be seen as an advantage,con-sidering the varying needs and expectations of different families.

New Screening Approach for Ocular Diseases

Objective: Present a new screening approach for ocular diseases. Method: Transversal, retrospective, single center study that analyzed medical records of patients from a social project on the prevention of blindness and amblyopia, which aimed at: 1) Detect the main ocular disorders such as amblyopia, primary angle-closure suspect (PACS);glaucoma suspect (GS);predisposing retinal detachment lesions (PRDL);age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and diabetic retinopathy (DR);2) Perform cataract diagnosis;3) Provide guidance and treatment for allergic conjunctivitis. 4) Prescribe glasses for children until 14 years of age. Participants were examined by a single specialist, holder of a post-doctoral degree in ophthalmology, with 36 years of experience and a sub-specialization in retina and vitreous. All data were analyzed in 2022. Results: The examiner diagnosed 42 cases of PACS, 21 of GS, 8 of PRDL, 14 of AMD, 3 of DR, 40 of cataract and 31 cases of allergic conjunctivitis. Thirty-three participants younger than 14 were prescribed glasses. Other pathologies included retinal detachment, papilledema, corneal ulcer, suspected conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma, retinal vasculitis, strabismus, uveitis, bilateral papilla paleness and lacrimal duct obstruction. Out of the 297 cases examined, 168 participants presented some type of alteration that could compromise their vision. Conclusion: The examiner’s experience and knowledge were decisive factors for the quick diagnosis, advice, screening and/or treatment of several ocular diseases. The social project results reveal that the primary care and/or the screening performed by a specialist are likely to reduce blindness cases.

Recognition of Child Maltreatment by Mothers Raising Infants Up to Four Months of Age and Types of Support Felt Necessary

Objective: This study aimed to identify whether mothers who had undergone their one-month checkup at obstetrical care facilities and were raising infants up to four months of age recognized child maltreatment, the coping strategies that they used to calm their emotions during those moments, and types of support felt necessary. Method: This was a qualitative, descriptive design study conducted from July 2022 to March 2023. Semi-structured interviews based on an interview guideline of 21 first-time mothers raising infants up to four months of age were conducted. The responses were classified into categories. Results: Situations that mothers caring for infants up to four months of age recognized as child maltreatment were classified into 11 categories, such as [Becoming emotional for not understanding the child’s needs or the reason for their crying, and reacting confrontationally towards the child]. Coping strategies that helped mothers calm their emotions during those moments were classified into 10 categories, such as [Conversing with adults around them]. Types of support that mothers felt necessary were classified into 14 categories, such as [Guidance from experts on the growth and development of their children, even after leaving the maternity facility]. Discussion: Maltreatment recognized by postpartum mothers up to four months after birth was classified into two categories: situations involving actions taken towards the child, although not at a serious level, and situations where no actual actions were taken. Even acts that do not actually constitute maltreatment were considered maltreatment. During parenting, every mother may experience negative feelings towards her child and may face moments when she feels incapable of engaging with her child. The importance of socially supporting mothers who are often alone with their children and having preventive approaches for all postpartum mothers were suggested as supportive measures needed to prevent the occurrence of maltreatment.