This is a biannual scientific publication in the fields of medicine and health, issued in March and September (ISSN: 2828-9994). The journal publishes original research articles, including field studies, laboratory studies, and literature reviews across various disciplines such as clinical medicine, tropical medicine, dentistry, biomedical sciences, clinical pharmacy, and public health. Indexed in: Garuda | Google Scholar
Fakultas Kedokteran, Kedokteran Gigi, dan Ilmu Kesehatan
The association between anxiety, daily behaviors, and insomnia among university students
Background: Insomnia is a common problem among university students and is often associated with psychological factors such as anxiety and modifiable daily behaviors. This study aimed to examine the relationships between anxiety levels, specific daily habits (including caffeine consumption, physical activity, and academic stress), and the occurrence of insomnia among students aged 20 to 25 years at Universitas Prima Indonesia. Methods: An observational analytic study with a cross-sectional design was conducted in May 2025. A total of 94 students participated as respondents. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, including the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) and the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). The chi-square test was applied to analyze the associations between variables. Results: Most respondents were female (61.7%) with a mean age of 21.21 years. Descriptive analysis showed trends suggesting that higher anxiety and physical activity levels were associated with increased insomnia rates. However, statistical analysis revealed no significant relationship between anxiety and insomnia (p = 0.203) or between physical activity and insomnia (p = 0.190). In contrast, caffeine consumption showed a statistically significant association with insomnia severity (p = 0.006). Conclusion: Although anxiety and physical activity were not significantly related to insomnia in this study, caffeine consumption was identified as a significant modifiable risk factor. These findings emphasize the need for targeted health education programs to improve sleep hygiene among students, particularly by addressing caffeine intake to enhance sleep quality.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dita Anisa Ismardi, Edlin Edlin, Yolanda Eliza Putri Lubis, Radhitya Qowiyyul Davin, Muhammad Raihan Ishak https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Antidiabetic potential of andaliman: Histopathological and glycemic improvements in diabetic rats
Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycemia and pancreatic dysfunction, particularly involving the Islets of Langerhans. Andaliman (Zanthoxylum acanthopodium) is a plant rich in flavonoids and antioxidants, which are believed to have antidiabetic effects. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the ethanol extract of Andaliman fruit on pancreatic histopathology in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Methods: This study employed a true experimental design with a pre-test and post-test control group structure. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to six groups: a normal control, a positive control (metformin 9 mg/kg), a diabetic control (alloxan 90 mg/kg), and three treatment groups induced with alloxan followed by administration of Andaliman extract at doses of 150, 250, and 350 mg/kg body weight, respectively. Treatments were administered for 14 days, after which blood glucose analysis (pre- and post-treatment) and pancreatic histopathological assessments were performed. Results: Statistical analysis revealed a significant reduction in blood glucose levels following treatment (p = 0.001). Histopathological examination showed that Andaliman extract ameliorated alloxan-induced damage to the Islets of Langerhans. The 350 mg/kg body weight dose resulted in the most pronounced tissue regeneration compared to the other treatment groups. Conclusion: The ethanol extract of Andaliman fruit effectively improves pancreatic histopathology and lowers blood glucose levels in diabetic rats.
Copyright (c) 2026 Boyke Marthin Simbolon, Juliana Lina, Ayu Theresia Saragih https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Antibacterial activity of dali ni horbo protein extract modified with citrus and pineapple juice
Background: The global rise in antibiotic resistance highlights the urgent need to identify novel, natural antimicrobial agents. Fermented dairy products represent potential sources of bioactive peptides with inherent antibacterial properties. Dali ni horbo is a traditional fermented buffalo milk product from North Sumatra, Indonesia. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial activity of a crude protein extract from dali ni horbo, modified with orange and pineapple juice, against selected pathogenic microorganisms. Methods: This experimental laboratory study employed disk diffusion and well diffusion methods on agar media to assess the extract’s activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Propionibacterium acnes, and Candida albicans. Results: The results showed no inhibition zones for any treatment against all tested microorganisms. The absence of detectable antimicrobial activity may be attributed to the low concentration or biological activity of antibacterial compounds in the crude extract, the possible degradation of bioactive peptides during extraction, and the limited diffusion capacity of high‑molecular‑weight proteins in solid agar media. Conclusion: In conclusion, under the experimental conditions and methods applied, the crude protein extract of dali ni horbo did not exhibit antimicrobial activity against the tested bacterial and fungal species. Further studies involving protein purification, bioactive peptide isolation, and alternative liquid-based susceptibility assays are recommended.
Copyright (c) 2026 Catrin Angelica Putri Tesa, Razoki Razoki, Finna Piska https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Factors influencing infant basic immunization uptake at Bestari Community Health Center, Medan
Background: Immunization is one of the most effective public health interventions for preventing infectious diseases and reducing mortality rates. However, complete basic immunization coverage in Indonesia, particularly in North Sumatra, remains suboptimal. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between maternal characteristics (age, education, employment, knowledge, and attitudes) and the provision of complete basic immunization for infants at the Bestari Community Health Center in Medan. Methods: The research employed an analytical survey with a cross-sectional approach involving 60 mothers visiting integrated health posts in November 2022. Data were collected via questionnaires and analyzed using the chi-square test. Results: Results indicated significant associations between maternal age (p = 0.002), education level (p = 0.003), employment status (p = 0.000), knowledge (p = 0.000), and attitudes (p = 0.000) with infant immunization completeness. Conclusion: The study concludes that sociodemographic factors and maternal understanding play crucial roles in immunization coverage.
Copyright (c) 2026 Pahala Maringan Jubel Simangunsong, Herbert Wau, Lincewan Lestari Gulo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Relationship of parental occupation, income, and education with children's oral health: A study of sixth-grade students at SD 060847 Sekip, Medan
Background: Oral health in elementary school–aged children is an important component of general health that affects quality of life and the growth and developmental process. Poor oral hygiene in children remains common and is influenced by various factors, including parental socioeconomic conditions. This study aimed to determine the relationship between parental socioeconomic factors, including occupation, income, and education level, and the oral health of sixth-grade students at SD Negeri 060847. Methods: This analytic survey used a cross-sectional design. The study population comprised all students at SD Negeri 060847, and the sample consisted of 43 sixth-grade students selected using a total sampling technique. Data on parental socioeconomic status were obtained through questionnaires, and children’s oral health status was assessed using the Oral Hygiene Index Simplified (OHI-S) through direct examination. Data were analyzed using univariate and bivariate methods with the chi-square test. Most children had a moderate OHI-S status. Results: There was a significant relationship between parental occupation and children’s OHI-S status, with children whose parents had higher-level occupations tending to have better oral hygiene. Parental income also showed a significant relationship with OHI-S status, with higher income associated with better oral hygiene. In addition, parental education level was significantly associated with children’s oral health. Conclusion: In conclusion, parental socioeconomic factors are significantly associated with the oral health of sixth-grade students at SD Negeri 060847.
Copyright (c) 2026 Molek Molek, Gusbakti Gusbakti, Nayla Khairani, Reza Sembiring https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Antibacterial activity of Trigona sp. propolis extract against Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans in vitro
Background: Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans is a primary pathogen in aggressive periodontitis. Plaque control uses chemical and natural agents. Propolis inhibits growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This study assessed the in vitro antibacterial activity of Trigona sp. propolis extract against A. actinomycetemcomitans. Methods: This true experimental laboratory study used a post-test-only control group design. Samples were A. actinomycetemcomitans bacteria in 8 groups (n=5 each). The dilution method tested antibacterial activity. Data analysis used Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests. Results: Mean A. actinomycetemcomitans colony counts (mean ± SD) were 5.60 ± 1.52, 11.60 ± 4.83, 15.60 ± 5.03, 22.20 ± 2.86, 25.40 ± 6.43, and 141.80 ± 5.40 for propolis concentrations of 50, 25, 12.5, 6.25, 3.125, and 1.56, respectively. Negative control (DMSO) showed uncountable colonies; positive control (chlorhexidine) showed none. Kruskal-Wallis test indicated significant differences (p=0.001). Mann-Whitney test showed differences between most groups (p<0.05), except 25 vs. 12.5% (p=0.421), 12.5 vs. 3.125% (p=0.056), and 6.25 vs. 3.125% (p=0.151). Conclusion: Trigona sp. propolis inhibited and showed bactericidal potential against A. actinomycetemcomitans in vitro, with minimum inhibitory concentration at 3.125% and minimum bactericidal concentration at 50%.
Copyright (c) 2026 Yuni Yuni, Sumitro Sumitro, Angelin Nehemia Juniarti Butarbutar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Gonial angle, antegonial angle, and bigonial breadth among Chinese and Batak ethnic groups: A panoramic radiographic analysis
Background: Mandibular morphology is a key aspect of antropometry and dentistry, reflecting anatomic variations influenced by genetic, ethnic, and environmental factors. Parameters such as bigonial width, gonial angle, and antegonial angle serve as primary indicators in mandibular morphometric analysis, with applications in orthodontics, maxillofacial surgery, and forensic identification. Population-based morphometric data for local Indonesian groups remain limited. This study addresses this gap by examining mandibular characteristics in Batak and Chinese ethnic groups. This study aimed to compare bigonial width, gonial angle, and antegonial angle between Batak and Chinese groups using panoramic radiographs. Methods: This cross-sectional, observational, analytic study included 50 subjects (25 Batak and 25 Chinese) at RSGM Prima. Measurements were performed with ImageJ software and analyzed using Shapiro-Wilk normality test, Levene homogeneity test, and independent t-test. Results: No statistically significant differences were found in gonial angle (p=0.665), antegonial angle (p=0.218), or bigonial width (p=0.328) between the groups. Conclusion: No significant differences exist in gonial angle, antegonial angle, or bigonial width between Batak and Chinese groups. Mandibular morphometric variations are not determined solely by ethnicity. These parameters should be integrated with other anthropologic markers and primary identification methods for greater accuracy in clinical and forensic applications.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mustika Lili Perdani, Wilvia Wilvia, Kanaya Tabhita, Ishfahani Suriadi Ishak, Meika Maharani Br Perangin-angin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Effects of rice husk nanosilica on color stability of metal-ceramic crowns
Background: Metal-ceramic crowns remain a primary choice for dental restoration due to their adequate mechanical strength and relatively low cost. However, their esthetic success depends on the color stability of the porcelain, particularly the opaque layer that masks the underlying metal. Nanosilica derived from rice husks is an environmentally friendly material with potential as a reinforcing agent, but data on its effect on color changes in metal-ceramic crowns remain limited. This study aimed to analyze the effect of adding 0.5% rice husk nanosilica to the opaque layer on color changes in metal-ceramic crowns. Methods: An in vitro experimental study used Co-Cr metal samples coated with porcelain, with color evaluation based on the CIELAB system (L*, a*, b*) via colorimeter before and after nanosilica addition. Nanosilica was synthesized from rice husks and characterized using particle size analysis and scanning electron microscopy. Data were analyzed with Shapiro-Wilk test, Levene test, Welch t-test, and paired t-test. Results: Characterization results showed nanosilica particles in the nanoscale range with two main distribution peaks and amorphous, spherical morphology with agglomeration tendency. L* values increased significantly, whereas changes in a* and b* values showed no significant differences. Conclusion: These findings indicate that adding 0.5% rice husk nanosilica to the opaque layer increases brightness and total color change in metal-ceramic crowns, requiring esthetic control in its application.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sopan Sinamo, Martono Martono, Deva Yani Br Ginting https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Prevalence of ulcer disease among patients with diabetes mellitus at Royal Prima Hospital Medan
Background: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder with a rapidly increasing prevalence, often leading to serious complications such as diabetic ulcers, which significantly affect quality of life and increase healthcare costs. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of ulcers in patients with diabetes mellitus treated at Royal Prima Medan Hospital and to analyze the associated factors. Methods: This quantitative observational study employed a retrospective design and analyzed medical record data collected between 2021 and 2025. A total of 58 patients were selected using purposive sampling. Data analysis was conducted using the Chi-Square test and ANOVA with a 95% confidence level. Results: The majority of the respondents were male (63.8%) and within the 56–65-year age group (34.5%). The most common skin condition was diabetic ulcers (82.8%), followed by diabetic bullae (12.1%) and viral infections (5.2%). The mean blood glucose level was 246.33 mg/dL, indicating hyperglycemia. Statistical analysis revealed no significant association between gender and skin disease type (p = 0.895) and no significant difference in blood glucose levels across types of skin disease (p = 0.135). Conclusion: There was no significant correlation between skin disease type and blood glucose levels, suggesting that clinical management should also address other behavioral and metabolic factors.
Copyright (c) 2026 Grace Angelina Tarigan Tua, Widya Pasca Amir, Suandy Suandy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Breast cancer patients' quality of life during chemotherapy at Royal Prima General Hospital
Background: Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignancy and a leading cause of cancer-related death among women worldwide. Chemotherapy, a primary treatment modality, often significantly impacts patient quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to analyze the QoL of breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy at Royal Prima General Hospital. Methods: We employed a descriptive-analytic cross-sectional design with a purposive sample of 51 patients. Data were collected using a respondent characteristics form and the validated Indonesian version of the WHOQOL-BREF instrument. Results: Results indicated the majority of respondents were aged 36-60 years (86.3%), married (100%), had a junior high school education (49%), and had a disease duration of 1-24 months (82.4%). Overall QoL for most patients was moderate (60.8%), followed by good (35.3%) and poor (3.9%). Cross-tabulation analysis revealed varied QoL distribution across age, marital status, education, disease duration, and cancer stage. Conclusion: We conclude that the QoL of breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy at Royal Prima General Hospital is predominantly at a moderate level, indicating a need for focused attention on psychosocial support, health education, and symptom management to holistically improve patient well-being during treatment.
Copyright (c) 2026 Chanli Saragih, Christina J.R.E. Lumbantobing, Linda Chiuman https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Improved knowledge of COPD management through a health education intervention: A study at Vina Estetica Hospital, Medan
Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive disease characterized by airflow obstruction that requires effective self-management. Health education is a crucial intervention to improve patient understanding of symptom management. This study aims to analyze the effect of health education on patients' knowledge regarding COPD management in the inpatient ward of Vina Estetica Hospital, Medan. Methods: This research employed a quasi-experimental design with a one-group pretest-posttest approach. Sampling was conducted using total sampling, including 32 COPD patients as respondents. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed using the paired t-test. Results: Before the health education intervention, the majority of respondents had good knowledge (59.4%). After the intervention, all respondents (100%) achieved the good knowledge category. Statistical tests showed a significant effect of health education on increasing patient knowledge (p-value 0.000; t-count 4.605). Conclusion: Health education is effective in improving the knowledge of COPD patients. It is recommended that nursing services implement continuous health education programs to optimize patient care.
Copyright (c) 2026 Roslenni Sitepu, Kartika Sari Rizki, Dicho Zhuhriano Yasli https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
A microbiological analysis of coliform bacteria in street food around Universitas Prima Indonesia, Medan
Background: Street foods, particularly fried snacks, are highly popular among university students due to their convenience and affordability. However, the safety of such foods is a public health concern, as they are susceptible to contamination by coliform bacteria, which can cause gastrointestinal illnesses such as diarrhea. This study aimed to analyze the total coliform bacteria in fried snacks sold around the Universitas Prima Indonesia campus area in Medan as an indicator of food safety. Methods: This descriptive laboratory study analyzed fried snack samples of two types (rissole and filled tofu) collected from six street vendors on Jalan Ayahanda, Medan. Samples were obtained using a simple random sampling technique, resulting in a total of 12 samples. The presence of coliform bacteria was determined using the Most Probable Number (MPN) method with a 3-3-3 tube series, which included a presumptive test using Lactose Broth (LB) medium. Data were analyzed descriptively by comparing results with the standard set by the Indonesian Ministry of Health Regulation No. 2 of 2023 (maximum permissible limit <3.6 MPN/gram). Results: All 12 samples tested negative in the presumptive test, indicated by the absence of gas bubbles in the Durham tubes after 48 hours of incubation. The MPN value for all samples was <3 MPN/gram, confirming they met the required safety standard (<3.6 MPN/gram). Conclusion: Fried snacks sold around the Universitas Prima Indonesia campus were free from coliform bacterial contamination and are considered safe for consumption based on current regulations. Factors such as the high-temperature deep-frying process (>150°C) and adequately maintained vendor sanitation practices likely contributed to the absence of contamination.
Copyright (c) 2026 Radhitya Qowiyyul Davin, Edy Fachrial, Wienaldi Wienaldi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Factors associated with clean and healthy living behavior among elementary school students
Background: Clean and Healthy Living Behavior (PHBS) in schools is a government program implemented through community health centers to improve public health status. Elementary school-aged children are a vulnerable group for various diseases associated with PHBS. This study aimed to identify factors associated with PHBS among students at public elementary schools in Banda Aceh City. Methods: A quantitative study with a cross-sectional design was conducted from November 2023 to January 2024. The population comprised 192 students, with a sample of 85 fourth and fifth grade students selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires and checklists and analyzed using the Chi-Square test. Results: Results showed that most respondents were male (51.8%) and aged 5-11 years (61.2%). More than half of respondents (56.5%) demonstrated poor PHBS, 65.9% had low knowledge levels, 45.9% reported unavailable PHBS facilities and infrastructure, and 60.0% perceived teacher roles as poor. Bivariate analysis revealed significant associations between knowledge level (p=0.024) and availability of facilities and infrastructure (p=0.004) with PHBS; however, no significant association was found between teacher role and PHBS (p=0.562). Conclusion: In conclusion, knowledge level and availability of facilities and infrastructure were significantly associated with PHBS among public elementary school students in Banda Aceh City. It is recommended that community health centers conduct regular PHBS education in schools and that schools complete necessary facilities while strengthening supervision of student PHBS implementation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Evi Santri, Masryna Siagian, Hartono Hartono https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The influence of supervision by the head of medical services and nurse performance on patient safety at Aek Kanopan Regional General Hospital
Background: Patient safety is a primary priority in healthcare services; however, adverse events persist and are often associated with nurse performance and weak supervision. This study aimed to analyze the influence of supervision by the Head of Medical Services and the performance of inpatient ward nurses on patient safety at Aek Kanopan Regional General Hospital, North Labuhanbatu Regency. Methods: This quantitative study employed a cross-sectional design. The study population comprised all 120 implementing nurses in the inpatient wards, who were also recruited as the total sample. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire measuring nurse perceptions of supervision, performance, and patient safety implementation. Data analysis included univariate and bivariate analyses using the Chi-Square test. Results: The majority of respondents rated supervision as good (84.2%), nurse performance as good (84.2%), and patient safety as good (84.2%). Bivariate analysis demonstrated a significant association between supervision and patient safety (p=0.000) and between nurse performance and patient safety (p=0.000). Conclusion: This study concludes that effective supervision by department heads and optimal nurse performance contribute significantly to improved patient safety. Hospital management is advised to strengthen supervisory capacity and invest in continuing professional development programs for nurses.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fitria Desiana Siregar, Ermi Girsang, Sri Lestari Ramadhani Nasution https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Coronary heart disease risk factors: Family history, smoking, and diet among patients at Royal Prima General Hospital
Background: Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a leading cause of death worldwide, influenced by both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. This study aimed to analyze risk factors for CHD based on family history, smoking activity, and dietary habits among patients at Royal Prima General Hospital Medan. Methods: A quantitative study with a cross-sectional design was conducted from December 16, 2025 to January 6, 2026. The sample comprised 35 CHD patients selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and medical records, and analyzed using univariate, descriptive bivariate, and descriptive multivariate analyses. Results: Results showed that a portion of respondents had a family history of CHD, nearly half were active smokers with smoking duration exceeding 10 years, and the majority exhibited risky dietary habits including frequent consumption of fried foods, coconut milk-based foods, fast food, and sweetened beverages. Descriptive bivariate analysis revealed tendencies toward clustering of risk factors, with smokers more likely to have unhealthy dietary patterns. Descriptive multivariate analysis demonstrated that most patients had multiple concurrent risk factors, particularly combinations of family history, smoking, and unhealthy dietary habits. Conclusion: In conclusion, CHD occurrence among patients is influenced by the interaction of multiple risk factors rather than any single factor. Promotive and preventive efforts focusing on comprehensive healthy lifestyle modifications are needed to reduce CHD risk.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Raihan Ishak, Andrico Napolin Lumban Tobing, Putri Handayani https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The relationship between coffee consumption habits and body mass index among medical students
Background: Obesity is a growing global health concern with increasing prevalence among young adults. Coffee consumption, particularly among medical students experiencing high academic stress, may influence body mass index (BMI) through various metabolic mechanisms. However, the relationship between different types of coffee and BMI remains inconclusive. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between coffee consumption habits (frequency and type of coffee) and BMI among medical students at Universitas Prima. Methods: A quantitative study with a cross-sectional design was conducted in 2025. The sample comprised 87 medical students selected through simple random sampling from a population of 675 students. Data were collected using structured questionnaires assessing coffee consumption patterns (type and frequency) and self-reported weight and height for BMI calculation. BMI was classified according to WHO criteria: underweight (<18.5 kg/m²), normal (18.5-24.9 kg/m²), overweight (25-29.9 kg/m²), and obese (≥30 kg/m²). Coffee consumption was categorized by type (Americano vs. milk coffee) and frequency (1-2 times/week vs. >3 times/week). Data were analyzed using univariate and bivariate analyses with non-parametric tests. Results: Milk coffee was more popular than Americano among both male (72.1%) and female (89.6%) students. Among obese students, 100% consumed milk coffee, while underweight students showed the highest preference for Americano (37.5%). Students with normal BMI predominantly consumed coffee 1-2 times weekly (69.8%), while obese students showed higher consumption frequency (>3 times/week: 20%). Normality tests showed non-normal distribution of BMI data (p<0.001 for both coffee type and frequency). Bivariate analysis revealed no significant association between coffee type and BMI (p=0.220) or between consumption frequency and BMI (p=0.578). Conclusion: Coffee consumption habits, including type and frequency, were not significantly associated with BMI among medical students at Universitas Prima. BMI appears to be influenced by multiple interacting factors beyond coffee consumption alone. Further research with larger samples and consideration of confounding variables such as physical activity, dietary patterns, and sleep quality is warranted.
Copyright (c) 2026 Christian Michael Oloan Sitompul, Ermi Girsang, Irza Haicha Pratama https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Media-based health promotion for child eye health education: A mini review
Background: Childhood visual impairment, largely stemming from preventable or correctable conditions such as uncorrected refractive errors, remains a significant global public health challenge. School-based vision screening programs are effective for identification, but their impact is often limited by poor parental and child adherence to follow-up care and recommended preventive behaviors. Health promotion interventions utilizing various media formats have emerged as a strategy to bridge this gap. This mini-review synthesizes evidence from the past decade on the effectiveness of media-based health promotion for educating children and their caregivers about eye health. Methods: Drawing on peer-reviewed literature, this review examines the impact of digital, broadcast, and specialized print media on outcomes including spectacle compliance, referral adherence, and knowledge improvement. Results: Evidence indicates that culturally tailored interventions utilizing diverse media channels can significantly improve eye health behaviors. The review identifies that successful interventions are characterized by cultural relevance, community engagement in development, and the strategic use of multiple media platforms to create reinforcing messages. Key findings from the literature include a 12% reduction in myopia incidence through combined health education and outdoor activity programs, the cost-effectiveness of musical messaging in improving referral adherence, and the potential of digital platforms for delivering scalable education. Conclusion: However, challenges remain in ensuring long-term behavior change and addressing the needs of children with disabilities. Future research should focus on comparative effectiveness studies, long-term sustainability, and the integration of innovative technologies with personalized education to maximize the public health impact of these interventions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Heri Purwoko, Nelly Christina Siahaan, Sindy Boru Sembiring, Laksono Bagus Sasmito, Putri Amriany Nur, Andrea Radotma Silitonga, Ivonne Ivonne https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
A thorough examination of the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of erectile dysfunction: A comprehensive review
Background: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a complex sexual disorder and a significant clinical indicator of vascular, metabolic, endocrine, neurological, psychological, and relational health. This brief narrative review encapsulates the prevailing evidence regarding the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). Methods: From 2016 to 2026, we gave priority to peer-reviewed guidelines, consensus statements, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and high-impact reviews. Results: The evaluation of ED should incorporate a sexual and medical history, a validated symptom assessment, a focused examination, selective laboratory testing, and cardiovascular risk assessment. The primary treatment continues to focus on lifestyle enhancement and phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. Conversely, vacuum devices, localized vasoactive therapy, testosterone for verified hypogonadism, psychosexual treatment, and penile prostheses are employed based on patient phenotype and preference. Low-intensity shockwave therapy may be advantageous in specific instances of vasculogenic disease, whereas platelet-rich plasma and stem cell methodologies remain subject to ongoing research. Conclusion: Emergency management should be systematic, evidence-based, and focused on the patient, with prompt identification of systemic disease and the exclusion of unverified treatments.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Fauzan Farhat https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Vestibular schwannoma inducing unilateral tinnitus and auditory impairment: A literature review
Background: Vestibular schwannoma (VS) is a noncancerous tumor of the vestibulocochlear nerve that usually causes ringing in the ears and hearing loss in one ear. Modern clinical challenges extend beyond mere tumor eradication to encompass the early identification of retrocochlear disease, safeguarding functional hearing, managing tinnitus-related disorders, and choosing treatment approaches that maintain facial nerve function and enhance quality of life. Methods: This literature review integrates the most recent evidence regarding epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic assessment, natural history, observation, stereotactic radiotherapy, microsurgery, tinnitus outcomes, and auditory rehabilitation. Results: Recent guidelines, cohort studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses all point to MRI of the internal auditory canal as the best way to diagnose asymmetric hearing loss or suspicious unilateral audiovestibular symptoms. Small tumors that don't affect hearing are often good candidates for active surveillance, but hearing can get worse even when the tumor isn't growing much on imaging. Radiosurgery offers lasting tumor control for specific small to medium-sized tumors, although long-term preservation of hearing diminishes over time. Microsurgery is still important for big tumors, brainstem compression, radiosurgery failure, or certain patient needs. However, keeping hearing is very dependent on the patient's hearing before the surgery, the size of the tumor, the approach used, and the monitoring done during the surgery. Tinnitus is prevalent, clinically significant, and not entirely predictable by tumor size or treatment approach. Conclusion: The literature endorses a personalized, multidisciplinary methodology that incorporates audiometry, MRI-based surveillance, patient-reported outcomes, and collaborative decision-making.
Copyright (c) 2026 Gunawan Wijaya Setiawan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Acute cholecystitis: Diagnosis and treatment according to contemporary literature
Background: Acute cholecystitis remains a leading cause of emergency visits in patients with gallstone disease and requires an integrated approach including clinical assessment, imaging, severity grading, antibiotic therapy, and timely source control. Method: The Tokyo Guidelines 2018 and WSES guidelines provide a standardized diagnostic framework and recommend early laparoscopic cholecystectomy as the treatment of choice when the patient is physiologically fit. Ultrasonography is the first-line imaging modality, though its sensitivity is moderate; therefore, CT, MRI/MRCP, or hepatobiliary scintigraphy may be required in equivocal or complicated cases. Results: Early laparoscopic cholecystectomy during the index admission is the definitive treatment, with subtotal cholecystectomy or alternative strategies considered when safe dissection is not feasible. Antibiotics are essential in the acute phase but should not replace definitive source control. Gallbladder drainage (percutaneous or endoscopic) remains an important option for high-risk surgical patients but should be applied selectively rather than as a routine alternative to surgery. Conclusion: A practical, streamlined algorithm integrating disease severity, patient condition, and institutional expertise is recommended to optimize management.
Copyright (c) 2026 M. Fadillah Tarigan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Vocal fold leukoplakia: Diagnostic approaches, risk stratification, and management of laryngeal premalignant lesions
Background: Vocal cord leukoplakia is a diverse epithelial condition with indeterminate biological characteristics, resulting in ongoing conflict between early oncological intervention and voice preservation. To integrate current knowledge about diagnostic methodologies, risk classification, and the management of vocal cord leukoplakia and associated laryngeal precancerous lesions. Method: This narrative literature review focused on English-language journal papers published from 2016 to April 2026, with the final selection restricted to studies published in Scopus-indexed publications. Primary cohort studies, diagnostic investigations, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and a 2021 position document from the European Laryngological Society were given top priority. Results: The most consistent message from recent research is that combining white-light laryngoscopy with stroboscopy, narrowband imaging, and histopathology makes diagnosis more accurate. Lesions that are rough, thick, hyperemic, and non-vibrating and have an unusual vascular pattern are more likely to lead to severe dysplasia or cancer. Histologic grade, on the other hand, is still the most important factor in determining whether a tumor will turn malignant over time. Conservative treatment seems best for certain modest lesions. On the other hand, suspicious, persistent, recurrent, or histologically progressed lesions usually need a biopsy or excision. Conclusion: Contemporary management options for vocal cord leukoplakia must be multimodal, risk-adapted, and explicitly associated with longitudinal surveillance. Future research should concentrate on standardized scoring systems, external validation of optical biopsy instruments, and biomarker-driven predictive models.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Fauzi Farhat https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0