International Journal on Health and Medical Sciences

The Relationship Between C-Reactive Protein Levels and Visual Acuity in Optic Neuritis: A Study on Disease Severity and Recovery Potential

Aditya Baskara — 2025-08-09

Optic neuritis (ON) is an inflammatory condition of the optic nerve that can lead to significant visual impairment. C-Reactive Protein (CRP), a marker of systemic inflammation, has been implicated in various inflammatory diseases, including optic neuritis. This study aims to investigate the relationship between CRP levels and visual acuity in ON patients, with a focus on its potential role as a biomarker for disease severity and recovery potential. A cohort of patients diagnosed with optic neuritis was recruited for this study. CRP levels were measured at the time of diagnosis, and visual acuity was assessed at baseline, three months, and six months post-treatment. Statistical analyses were conducted to determine the correlation between CRP levels and visual acuity outcomes. Elevated CRP levels at diagnosis were significantly associated with poorer visual acuity at both three and six months post-diagnosis. A positive correlation was observed between higher CRP levels and increased disease severity, as well as a reduced potential for visual recovery. These findings suggest that CRP may serve as a useful biomarker for predicting both the severity of optic neuritis at onset and the likelihood of visual recovery. This study supports the hypothesis that CRP levels are closely linked to disease severity and recovery outcomes in optic neuritis. Elevated CRP at diagnosis may serve as an early indicator of poor prognosis, highlighting the need for closer monitoring and possibly more aggressive treatment. Future research is warranted to further explore the potential of CRP as a reliable biomarker for optic neuritis and to integrate it with other clinical tools for improved patient management.

The Effect of Occupational Therapy on Improving Fine Motor Skills in Children with Cerebral Palsy

Rupika Darshwana — 2025-08-13

Cerebral palsy (CP) often impairs fine motor skills, limiting children’s ability to perform daily tasks and participate in age-appropriate activities. Occupational therapy (OT) is widely used to address these challenges, yet evidence on its targeted effectiveness for fine motor improvement remains essential. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of structured occupational therapy interventions on improving fine motor skills in children with CP. A quasi-experimental design was employed with 30 children aged 5-10 years diagnosed with spastic CP, divided into intervention and control groups. The intervention group received an eight-week, task-specific OT program focusing on grasping, hand eye coordination, and visual motor integration, conducted three times per week. The control group received standard care. Fine motor skills were assessed pre- and post-intervention using the Peabody Developmental Motor Scales–2 (PDMS-2). Post-intervention analysis revealed a significant improvement in the intervention group’s fine motor scores compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Gains were most notable in grasping ability and visual–motor integration. The control group showed only minimal improvement over the same period. Targeted occupational therapy effectively enhances fine motor skills in children with CP, with positive implications for independence, daily functioning, and quality of life. These findings support the integration of structured, evidence-based OT programs into pediatric rehabilitation for CP.

The Effectiveness of Collaborative Nursing Care in Reducing Complications in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus

Aisyah Azzahra — 2025-08-11

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder that poses a growing global health challenge due to its high prevalence and risk of complications such as neuropathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular diseases. Effective management of DM requires not only medical intervention but also a multidisciplinary approach that addresses the holistic needs of patients. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of collaborative nursing care in reducing complications among patients with Diabetes Mellitus. A quantitative research design was employed involving [insert number] DM patients who were divided into two groups: one receiving collaborative nursing care and the other receiving standard care. Data were collected through clinical assessments, patient interviews, and medical record reviews, focusing on complication rates, glycemic control (HbA1c levels), and self-care adherence over a [insert duration] period. The findings showed that patients who received collaborative nursing care experienced a significant reduction in diabetes-related complications, improved glycemic control, and greater adherence to self-management practices compared to those under standard care. The collaborative model fostered effective communication among healthcare providers, increased patient education, and enhanced care continuity. Collaborative nursing care is a highly effective approach in managing patients with Diabetes Mellitus, resulting in better clinical outcomes and reduced risk of complications. It underscores the essential role of nurses in interdisciplinary teams and supports the integration of collaborative care models in routine diabetes management to improve patient health outcomes.

The Impact of the Youth Posyandu Program on Anemia Prevention among High School Students in Indonesia

Mutiara Aurelia — 2025-08-14

Anemia remains a major public health issue among adolescents in Indonesia, with the 2018 Basic Health Research (Riskesdas) reporting a prevalence of 32% among those aged 15–24 years. The Youth Posyandu Program (Posyandu Remaja) is a community-based initiative aimed at improving adolescent health through regular screenings, nutritional counseling, iron-folic acid supplementation, and peer-led education. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the Youth Posyandu Program on anemia prevention among high school students. A quantitative quasi-experimental design was employed with intervention and control groups. The study involved high school students aged 15–18 years, selected using purposive sampling. The intervention group participated in monthly Youth Posyandu activities for three months, while the control group did not. Data were collected pre- and post-intervention on hemoglobin (Hb) levels, knowledge, attitudes, and supplementation compliance. Hb levels were measured using a portable hemoglobinometer, and KAP data were obtained through a validated questionnaire. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests, independent t-tests, and chi-square tests with a significance level of p < 0.05. The intervention group’s mean Hb level increased from 11.4 g/dL to 12.6 g/dL (p < 0.001), with anemia prevalence decreasing from 47.8% to 21.5%. The control group showed no significant change. Knowledge scores improved significantly in the intervention group (62.3 to 84.7, p < 0.001), and supplementation compliance reached 87% compared to 39% in the control group. Peer educator involvement was identified as a key factor in enhancing participation and adherence. The Youth Posyandu Program effectively improves hemoglobin levels, reduces anemia prevalence, and enhances adolescent knowledge and health practices. Integrating the program into school health services and expanding its reach could support national efforts to reduce adolescent anemia and promote long-term health.

The Effect of Moderate-Intensity Exercise on Cortisol Levels in Moderate to Heavy Male Smokers

Rayna Milena Ekaterina — 2025-08-12

This study examines the effect of moderate-intensity exercise on cortisol levels in moderate to heavy male smokers. Smoking is known to elevate cortisol levels, contributing to chronic stress and adverse health outcomes. The purpose of this research was to assess whether regular moderate-intensity aerobic exercise could reduce cortisol levels and mitigate stress in smokers. A total of 30 male smokers, aged 25 to 45 years, participated in a four-week exercise program. Participants were divided into an experimental group, which engaged in 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise three times a week, and a control group, which maintained their usual activities without intervention. Cortisol levels were measured through salivary samples taken before and after the intervention. Results showed a significant reduction in cortisol levels in the experimental group, from 18.5 nmol/L to 13.1 nmol/L (p < 0.01), compared to no significant change in the control group. These findings suggest that moderate-intensity exercise can effectively reduce cortisol levels in male smokers, providing a potential non-pharmacological approach to managing stress and improving hormonal balance in this population. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects and potential benefits of exercise in smokers, as well as its role in improving overall health outcomes.