J Natl Med Assoc
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The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges to global healthcare, particularly affecting respiratory systems and impacting individuals with pre-existing conditions, including those with HIV. ⋯ HIV patients are more susceptible to COVID-19, but the direct impact is less significant than other factors. Additional factors contribute to increased risk, while early improvement, accurate diagnosis, and intensive care reduce fatalities.
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Universal "opt-out" human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing involves testing individuals for HIV or HCV regardless of symptoms, unless they decline. Little is known about the characteristics of individuals who decline. ⋯ Despite HIV/HCV testing being the standard of care, approximately one-third of eligible individuals may decline testing, the demographic characteristics of whom may overlap with individuals who are traditionally unaware of their status.
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Patients attending Sexually transmitted infection/ Reproductive tract infection (STI/RTI) clinics are investigated for HIV and syphilis under the National AIDS Control Program (NACP). Although sexual contact is one of the modes of transmission of hepatitis B and C, they are not investigated under NACP. This study was planned to find the prevalence of HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, and C in patients attending STI/RTI clinics and to identify the predictive risk factors. ⋯ To investigate all patients attending STI/RTI clinics for Hepatitis B and to integrate Hepatitis B testing into the National AIDS Control Program.
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Effective management of complications in sickle cell disease (SCD), such as stroke prevention, often necessitates the use of blood transfusions. However, individuals who adhere to the religious tenets of Jehovah's Witnesses strictly abstain from accepting blood transfusions, thereby presenting a formidable challenge in clinical decision-making. ⋯ This case report demonstrates the successful implementation of a bloodless management strategy for stroke prevention in a Jehovah's Witness child with SCD. This study contributes to the existing literature by providing valuable insights and practical guidance for healthcare providers facing similar ethical and medical dilemmas.