Indian Journal of Preventive Medicine

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a significant cause of chronicmorbidity and mortality worldwide. COPD is commonly thought of as a condition caused by cigarette smoking. Epidemiological studies show that 5-12% of subjects with COPD are non-smokers. This study was undertaken to study the clinical profile of COPD in nonsmokers and to identify other risk factors of COPD. AIM: 1. To investigate the COPD clinical characteristics in non-smokers. 2. To identify the risk factors (other than smoking) of COPD. Materials and Methods: A six-month hospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Medicine at Rajshree Medical and Research Institute, Bareilly. A total of 50 COPD patients who were non-smokers admitted to the hospital during this period were taken into the study. Results: Of 50 patients, 76% were females, 66% had <5 years duration of illness. Cough and expectoration were present in all, followed by breathlessness and wheeze. In 84 percent of the cases, there was a history of biomass fuel exposure, and environmental tobacco smoke exposure was present in 100%. Occupational exposure was present in only 34%, and air pollution exposure was present in 16%. Conclusion: Environmental tobacco smoke exposure and biomass fuel exposure were significant risk factors. According to this study, occupational exposure and air pollution were not significant risk factors.

Background: There is very little literature available on the Status of Malaria in Bihar. Hence the preparation of this document. Objectives: To find out the parameters of Malaria in Bihar till as recently as possible. Methods: By studying the documents prepared by the National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC). Results: It is seen that there were 695 cases of Malaria in Bihar during 2023 (up to 25th October 2023). Conclusions: Bihar is very far from achieving Malaria elimination goals.

Background: There is a lot of literature available on the status of Malaria in Uttarakhand. Hence the preparation of this document. Objectives: To find out the parameters of Malaria in Uttarakhand till as recently as possible. Methods: By studying the documents prepared by the National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) and the website of the National Health Mission, Uttarakhand. Results: It is seen that there were 24 cases of Malaria during 2023 (up to 25th October 2023). Conclusions: Uttarakhand is very close to achieving Malaria-elimination goals.

Hypertension, often termed the "silent killer," poses a significant public health challenge in India. Recognizing the urgency of addressing this silent killer, India has made efforts to increase awareness and implement strategies for hypertension control. With an estimated 200 million adults affected by this condition, it poses a considerable burden on individuals, families, and the healthcare system.India has implemented a multifaceted approach known as the India Hypertension Control Initiative (IHCI), a joint initiative involving various partners, to combat this growing health concern. Its primary objective is to improve the management of hypertension in primary healthcare facilities, aligning with the current screening program in place. By implementing evidence based strategies and reinforcing the fundamental aspects of hypertension control, IHCI aims to drive progress in tackling non-communicable diseases in India by collaborating with key stakeholders such as the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, State Governments, ICMR, and WHO India. By working together, IHCI and its partners strive to achieve the targets set by the Government of India in addressing the burden of non-communicable diseases and improving the health outcomes of the population. In this comprehensive review article, a critical examination is conducted, delving deep into the strategies, successes, challenges, and pivotal transition from mere awareness to impactful action in the realm of hypertension control, specifically within the unique and intricate fabric of the Indian context. It underscores the importance of addressing hypertension comprehensively, from awareness campaigns to sustained healthcare interventions, while highlighting lessons for global public health efforts.

Nicotine despite being the addictive component in cigarettes, is not the most toxic. The increased morbidity and mortality due to cigarette smoking can be blamed on various additives which are carcinogenic and toxic in nature. To achieve zero rates of cigarette smoking is a theoretical and idealistic target, but practically, the most feasible option is to adhere to harm minimization. This concept recognizes that not all Nicotine containing products are equally harmful and the ones which are safer can be promoted to increase their utilization, eventually reducing the rates of cigarette smoking as well as its associated health hazards. The Nicotine delivering product, along with being safe should also be satisfying and acceptable to cigarette smokers, so as to encourage them to switch to the better option. A tangible impact on public health will be created only if this change is followed by a major part of the population. An essential point to remember is that harm minimization does not substitute for tobacco prevention and cessation, rather it is a complementary plan for smokers who are unwilling or unable to quit. Nicotine replacement therapy, (remodeled or novel) Nicotine and tobacco products, psychological interventions and alternative therapies can be implemented individually or in combination for smoking cessation, depending on patient preference and comfort. This paper contains a detailed view on application, precautions and efficacy of various Nicotine delivery products. Key Messages: Nicotine although addictive, is not directly responsible for all the health hazards of tobacco consumption. Cigarette smoke has more than 7000 compounds that are harmful and lethal. Various compounds present in tobacco smoke such as carcinogens, toxicants, particulate matter and carbon monoxide are also responsible for the increased health risks related to tobacco smoking.