Background: Staphylococcus aureus is a leading pathogen implicated in pediatric respiratory infections, often exhibiting resistance to multiple antibiotics and producing various virulence factors. Its ability to colonize the nasopharynx and form biofilms complicates treatment and increases the risk of chronic and recurrent infections. Objective: This study aimed to isolate and identify S. aureus strains from pediatric respiratory samples in Kirkuk, Iraq and to evaluate their antibiotic susceptibility profiles, virulence characteristics and biofilm-forming capabilities. Methods: A total of 90 nasopharyngeal swabs were collected from children under 12 years with symptoms of respiratory infection. Samples were cultured and identified using standard biochemical methods. Virulence factors such as coagulase, DNase, gelatinase, hemolysin and enzyme production were phenotypically detected. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Biofilm production was assessed using three methods: Tissue Culture Plate (TCP), Tube Method and Congo Red Agar (CRA). Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26.0. Results: Of the 90 samples, 85 (94.44%) were culture-positive, yielding 128 bacterial isolates, of which S. aureus accounted for 60 (46.88%). Among these, 85% were methicillin-resistant, 75% vancomycin-resistant and 70% produced beta-lactamase. Levofloxacin showed the highest sensitivity (85%), followed by azithromycin, ceftazidime and imipenem (75% each), while all isolates were resistant to amoxicillin. All S. aureus isolates produced coagulase, DNase, gelatinase and urease, with 45% being strong biofilm producers by TCP method. A statistically significant association was observed between biofilm formation and detection method (χ² = 7.71, p = 0.034). Conclusion: The study reveals a high prevalence of multidrug-resistant and virulent S. aureus strains in pediatric respiratory infections in Kirkuk. These findings underscore the need for regular surveillance, targeted antimicrobial therapy and incorporation of biofilm assessment in clinical microbiology diagnostics.

Background: Polycystic Ovarian Disorder (PCOD) is a prevalent endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age globally, with far-reaching implications on reproductive, metabolic, and psychological health. Despite its growing incidence, public awareness and understanding of PCOD remain limited, especially in resource-constrained and culturally sensitive settings like Gandhinagar, Gujarat. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge and awareness of PCOD among the general public, identify gaps, and explore barriers to healthcare access and management. Material and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted over a three-month period among 400 participants from Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Data were collected using a pre-validated structured questionnaire comprising socio-demographic details and 20 questions assessing knowledge and awareness of PCOD. The sample was selected to ensure representation from urban and rural areas, as well as diverse educational and socio-economic backgrounds. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and knowledge scores were categorized into four levels: very good, good, fair, and poor. Results: The study revealed a moderate level of awareness about PCOD among participants, with 30% demonstrating very good knowledge (scores 16–20), 35% good (12–15), 26% fair (8–11), and 9% poor (<8). Most participants recognized PCOD as an ovarian disorder (74%) and were aware of its common symptoms, such as irregular periods (78%) and weight gain (72%). However, significant gaps were noted in understanding its long-term complications (67%) and the role of diagnostic tests (63%). Rural residents, comprising 64% of the sample, exhibited lower awareness compared to their urban counterparts, highlighting disparities in access to health information and services. Conclusion: This study highlights the urgent need for targeted educational interventions to improve public knowledge and awareness of PCOD in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Community-based programs, leveraging culturally appropriate communication tools, can bridge the identified knowledge gaps and empower individuals to seek timely healthcare. By integrating PCOD education into existing reproductive health initiatives, stakeholders can foster a more informed and proactive approach to managing this prevalent condition.

Background: Genital psoriasis altogether influences patients' personal satisfaction, prompting different confusions, especially in sexual well-being and psychosocial prosperity. Aim: This study contributed to identifying the effect of genital psoriasis on general health and quality of life. Methods: We recruited 72 women diagnosed with genital psoriasis aged 20-40 years between February 2023 and March 2024. All women completed a series of questionnaires to assess disease severity, complications, sexual function, and quality of life in women. Results: A total of 72 women participated in our article. Women with an age > 35 years were the largest class compared with others, which include 44.44%. Based on the PASI score, we noticed that severe genital psoriasis got 45.83% and moderate with 51.39%. Also, our study found that the most common symptoms affected women include itching and redness. Furthermore, genital psoriasis showed a negative effect on female sexual function in desire (3.9±0.06), arousal (2.9±1.0), satisfaction (3.1±0.6), and pain (4.4±0.6). Conclusion: This study shows that genital psoriasis altogether influences sexual capability and personal satisfaction in ladies, prompting increased complications, expanded confusion, and sexual misery.

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is the impaired carbohydrate metabolism first diagnosed in pregnancy, which may lead to serious health problems for the mother and her fetus. Aim: The aim of this study was to determine calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) levels in pregnant women with GDM. In addition, it was aimed to determine whether serum CGRP level is associated with adiponectin level. Patients and Methods: The case-control study was carried out in Tikrit city (Salah Al-Din General Hospital) from 15th of January to the end of December 2022. The number of pregnant women understudy were 100 women in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy whose ages were between 20-45 years old who attended Salah Al-Din General Hospital /Obstetric part. The study also included 50 healthy non-diabetic pregnant women in 3rd trimester of pregnancy ages were between 20-45 years as control group. Medical information, such as maternal age, gravida, parity, number of abortions, reproductive and medical history was obtained from patient files. Blood samples were collected for assessment of HbA1c, blood sugar, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and adiponectin levels. Results: The study showed the mean of CGRP was elevated significantly in GDM group (8.04 pg/ml) compared with women without GDM control group (2.91 pg/ml) (P:0.001). The study showed the mean of adiponectin was reduced significantly in GDM group (77.89) compared with women without GDM control group (99.72 pg/ml) (P:0.001). It was found that HbA1c was elevated significantly in GDM women (5.91%) and the lowest mean was non-GDM women (5.21%) and fasting blood sugar was also elevated significantly in GDM women (135.3 mg/dl) and the lowest mean was non-GDM women (91.35 mg/dl). The study showed positive correlation of CGRP serum level with each of FBS, HbA1c and Gestational age and negative correlation with serum Adiponectin among women with gestational diabetes. Conclusions: Serum CGRP levels were increased significantly inpregnant women with GDM compared with women without GDM control group and the outcomes of this investigation suggest that high CGRP levels in pregnant women may be a pivotal role in the natural history of GDM.

Background: Safe motherhood, encompassing adequate antenatal care (ANC), proper maternal nutrition, and access to institutional deliveries, is crucial for improving maternal and neonatal outcomes. This study aims to assess public awareness and understanding of antenatal care, maternal nutrition, and institutional delivery practices among women in rural Himachal Pradesh. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional community-based survey was conducted from January to March 2025 among 420 women aged 18–45 years, either currently pregnant or having delivered within the past two years. Participants were selected using a multistage random sampling technique across selected rural districts. Data were collected via a structured, bilingual (Hindi and English) questionnaire through face-to-face interviews conducted by trained investigators. Knowledge scores were calculated, and awareness levels were classified into very good, good, fair, and poor categories. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in IBM SPSS version 26.0. Results: The majority of participants (39.3%) were aged 26–35 years, and 90.0% were married. Educational attainment was moderate, with 36.2% having secondary education and 34.0% holding undergraduate degrees. Regarding awareness, 80.0% correctly identified the WHO-recommended minimum of four ANC visits, 83.8% recognized blood pressure monitoring as a critical ANC component, and 81.2% understood the impact of poor maternal nutrition on birth outcomes. However, awareness of government schemes like Janani Suraksha Yojana (63.8%) and Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (60.7%) was relatively low. A high proportion (85.7%) acknowledged the safety of institutional deliveries. Overall, 29.3% of participants demonstrated very good awareness, 46.2% good awareness, 19.0% fair awareness, and 5.5% poor awareness. Conclusion: While general awareness about antenatal care and maternal health services among rural women in Himachal Pradesh is encouraging, significant knowledge gaps persist, especially regarding financial support schemes and comprehensive nutrition during pregnancy. Focused educational interventions, strengthening frontline healthcare services, and community-driven strategies are essential to bridge these gaps and achieve safe motherhood universally in rural populations.

Background: Infertility and Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) are growing components of reproductive healthcare, yet social stigma, misinformation, and limited awareness continue to affect help-seeking behavior, especially in culturally sensitive regions like Shimla. This study aimed to assess public understanding, attitudes, and misconceptions surrounding infertility and ART, with an emphasis on social stigma, gender dynamics, and readiness for medical intervention. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional online survey was conducted from February to March 2025, targeting adult residents (N=405) of Shimla district. Using a structured, bilingual questionnaire disseminated via digital platforms, data were collected on demographic details, awareness of infertility causes, familiarity with ART (e.g., IVF, IUI), stigma, and willingness to seek treatment. Descriptive statistics and chi-square analysis were performed using SPSS 26.0. Results: Participants demonstrated moderate awareness overall, with 73.8% recognizing that infertility affects men, and 70.9% aware of the 1-year guideline for seeking fertility help. However, only 56.3% correctly stated that ART does not guarantee success, and 52.3% knew about partial insurance coverage. Social stigma was notable, with just 55.6% willing to discuss ART openly. Knowledge score analysis revealed that 12.6% had 'Very Good' knowledge, while 38.0% had 'Fair' and 18.3% 'Poor' levels, indicating prevalent gaps in understanding. Conclusion: Although awareness of infertility and ART is improving in Shimla, persistent myths, financial misconceptions, and stigma continue to hinder informed reproductive decisions. Community education programs, policy advocacy, and culturally tailored outreach are essential to bridge knowledge gaps and normalize ART use across socio-economic and gender divides.

Background: Eye trauma, a major cause of preventable vision impairment, is prevalent in Shimla District, Himachal Pradesh, where occupational and domestic risks are heightened by environmental factors and limited healthcare access. This study aimed to evaluate public awareness of eye trauma, first aid measures, and emergency responses, focusing on addressing knowledge gaps and barriers in this urban-rural interface. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional online survey was conducted from January to March 2025, targeting adults aged 18–60 years in Shimla District. A bilingual (Hindi/English) questionnaire, hosted on Google Forms, assessed socio-demographic factors, knowledge of eye injuries, first aid practices, and barriers. Using convenience sampling, 440 participants completed the survey. Data were analyzed with IBM SPSS Statistics v27.0, with knowledge scores categorized as Very Good (≥80%), Good (60–79%), Fair (40–59%), and Poor (<40%). Results: Participants, primarily aged 18–35 years (72.8%) and female (55.9%), showed moderate awareness: 80.9% recognized rinsing for chemical splashes, 83.2% identified covering the eye as protective, and 85.9% noted medical costs as a barrier. Gaps existed in urgent care for penetrating injuries (59.1%), scratch severity (61.1%), and eye bleeding as serious (62.7%). Knowledge levels were Very Good (26.6%), Good (47.0%), Fair (20.9%), and Poor (5.5%). Limited healthcare access (34.8%) highlighted rural challenges. Conclusion: While eye trauma awareness is improving, knowledge gaps and access barriers persist in Shimla District. Targeted education, first aid training, and rural outreach are crucial to reducing vision loss.

Background: Mental health disorders pose a significant burden in India, particularly in rural regions like Himachal Pradesh, where stigma, low awareness and limited access to services exacerbate the treatment gap. This study aimed to evaluate public awareness of mental health issues, attitudes toward counseling services and barriers to accessing care among adults in Himachal Pradesh, focusing on rural communities. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional online survey was conducted from January to February 2025, targeting adults aged 18–60 years in Himachal Pradesh. A bilingual (Hindi/English) questionnaire, hosted on Google Forms, assessed socio-demographic factors, mental health knowledge, attitudes toward counseling and barriers. Using convenience sampling, 450 participants completed the survey. Data were analyzed with IBM SPSS Statistics v27.0, with knowledge scores categorized as Very Good (≥80%), Good (60–79%), Fair (40–59%) and Poor (<40%). Results: Participants, primarily aged 18–35 years (74.0%) and female (56.0%), showed moderate awareness: 76.0% identified stressful life events as a depression cause, 80.0% recognized treatability of disorders and 86.0% acknowledged stigma as a barrier. Gaps existed in understanding check-up frequency (60.0%), asymptomatic issues (64.0%) and family history risks (66.0%). Knowledge levels were Very Good (28.0%), Good (46.0%), Fair (20.0%) and Poor (6.0%). Limited healthcare access (32.0%) highlighted rural disparities. Conclusion: While awareness of mental health is improving, stigma and knowledge gaps hinder care-seeking in Himachal Pradesh. Targeted education, stigma reduction campaigns and expanded rural services are crucial to closing the treatment gap.

Background: Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) aims to provide cashless health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh to economically vulnerable populations in India. Despite its significance, gaps in awareness and accessibility continue to limit its reach, especially in states like Himachal Pradesh with diverse geographies and literacy levels. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 450 adult residents of Himachal Pradesh between January and March 2025. A structured, bilingual questionnaire captured socio-demographic details and assessed knowledge of Ayushman Bharat and other schemes through 20 multiple-choice questions. Descriptive statistics and scoring criteria were used to classify awareness levels into four categories: Very Good (≥80%), Good (60–79%), Fair (40–59%) and Poor (<40%). Results: Among the 450 participants, 77.3% were male and 67.1% from rural areas. Approximately 49.6% demonstrated “Good” knowledge and 28.7% achieved a “Very Good” score. Awareness was highest for core scheme features such as cashless treatment and hospital coverage, but weaker for technical aspects like ABHA cards, online eligibility checks and empanelled diagnostic labs. Educational level and occupation were key predictors of awareness. Conclusion: Despite broad familiarity with Ayushman Bharat, notable knowledge gaps persist in Himachal Pradesh, particularly in rural and low-literacy segments. Targeted, culturally sensitive and community-driven awareness strategies are essential for enhancing public understanding and utilization of government health schemes.

Background: The postpartum period, often called the "fourth trimester," represents a vulnerable time of profound physical, emotional and psychological adjustment for new mothers. While physical recovery is emphasized, emotional well-being, including the recognition and management of postpartum depression (PPD), hygiene practices and nutritional needs, often remain under-addressed, particularly in the Indian urban context. This study aims to evaluate the level of awareness about postnatal care and mental health among new mothers residing in Delhi, focusing on postpartum depression, hygiene, nutrition and emotional support systems. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional online survey was conducted over three months (January-March 2025) among 420 new mothers in Delhi who had delivered a child within the previous 12 months. Participants were recruited using a convenience sampling method through social media platforms. Data were collected via a structured, pre-validated bilingual (Hindi and English) Google Forms questionnaire comprising socio-demographics, postnatal health practices, mental health awareness and barriers to care. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the responses and awareness levels were categorized into Very Good, Good, Fair and Poor based on cumulative scores. Results: The majority of participants were between 26-30 years of age (41.4%) and had at least secondary or undergraduate education (70.2%). While awareness about hygiene practices (85.2%), nutritional needs (80.0%) and breastfeeding support (82.9%) was high, knowledge regarding mental health aspects like recognition of postpartum depression symptoms (69.5%) and understanding severe symptoms such as suicidal thoughts (63.3%) was moderate. Overall, 34.8% of participants demonstrated Very Good awareness (≥80%), while 41.9% had Good awareness (60-79%). However, 17.6% had only Fair awareness and 5.7% had Poor awareness, highlighting critical gaps requiring targeted interventions. Conclusion: Although awareness regarding physical aspects of postnatal care among new mothers in Delhi is commendable, significant gaps remain, especially concerning postpartum mental health. There is an urgent need for holistic maternal health education programs that integrate mental health literacy, address stigma and promote emotional well-being alongside physical recovery to ensure comprehensive postnatal care.

Background: The global surge in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndrome is closely linked to poor dietary habits, particularly excessive sugar consumption. In India, a rapid nutrition transition coupled with low community-level awareness has intensified the burden of diet-related NCDs. The present study aimed to assess the awareness of sugar intake, obesity, and associated health risks among adults in Solan district, Himachal Pradesh, to identify prevailing knowledge gaps and inform targeted public health interventions. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional survey was conducted from January to March 2025 among 400 adults aged 18 years and above across rural, semi-urban, and urban settings in Solan district. Participants were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling via digital platforms. Data were collected using a structured, bilingual (Hindi and English) online questionnaire assessing demographics, awareness of sugar consumption risks, dietary behaviors, and misconceptions. Knowledge scores were categorized into "Very Good," "Good," "Fair," and "Poor." Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS version 26.0. Results: The majority of participants were aged 26–35 years (38.8%) and predominantly resided in rural areas (65.5%). Females represented 52.8% of the sample. While 79.3% correctly identified obesity and NCDs as major risks of excessive sugar intake and 81.0% recognized the link between obesity and cardiovascular diseases, only 60.8% were aware of the WHO’s recommended daily sugar limit. Notable misconceptions persisted regarding artificial sweeteners and sugar’s impact on cholesterol. Knowledge classification revealed that 30.8% had "Very Good" knowledge, 43.0% had "Good" knowledge, while 19.5% and 6.8% exhibited "Fair" and "Poor" knowledge levels respectively, underscoring a need for improved nutritional literacy. Conclusion: Although a substantial proportion of participants demonstrated a good foundational understanding of sugar-related health risks, significant knowledge gaps and persistent misconceptions remain, particularly regarding nuanced aspects of metabolic health. Targeted, culturally sensitive nutrition education initiatives, policy support to foster healthier food environments, and community-driven interventions are urgently required to bridge awareness gaps and mitigate the rising burden of obesity and NCDs in Solan district.

Background: Ligament injuries, especially those linked to sports and recreational activities, are becoming increasingly common among young and active populations. However, public understanding of their causes, symptoms and treatment remains limited, particularly in semi-urban and rural regions like Kangra. This study assesses awareness levels, misconceptions and early management behaviors regarding ligament and sports-related orthopedic trauma in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh. Materials and Methods: A community-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between January and March 2025 with 420 participants aged 16–35 years. A structured bilingual questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of ligament injuries and first-aid or treatment-seeking behavior. Responses were scored and awareness was categorized as Very Good (≥80%), Good (60–79%), Fair (41–59%) and Poor (<40%). Associations between knowledge levels and demographics were analyzed using chi-square tests. Results: Of the 420 respondents, 62.6% had good or very good awareness regarding ligament injuries and sports-related trauma. While 73.5% identified twisting motions as a cause of ligament tears, only 39.8% understood the importance of R.I.C.E (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) as an immediate response. Misunderstandings around complete rest vs. graded rehabilitation were also common. Rural participants and those without formal sports education showed significantly lower awareness. Conclusion: Despite moderate awareness levels about ligament injuries in Kangra, significant gaps persist particularly regarding first-aid, rehabilitation and prevention. Enhanced outreach through sports clubs, schools and local media is vital to improve orthopedic injury literacy and reduce complications from delayed or inappropriate treatment.

Background: Brain tumors are complex neurological conditions that can lead to severe morbidity or mortality if not detected early. In low-resource settings like Shimla, a combination of limited awareness, healthcare access barriers and widespread misconceptions contributes to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Understanding public perception is key to promoting timely intervention. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 400 adult residents of Shimla between January and March 2025. A structured bilingual questionnaire assessed knowledge of brain tumor symptoms, risk factors, diagnostic methods and prevailing myths. Awareness levels were categorized into four groups based on accuracy of responses. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The sample was demographically diverse, with 63% from rural areas and a near-equal gender split. While 65–67% correctly identified basic signs and diagnostic tools such as MRI and persistent headaches, fewer participants were aware that brain tumors can be asymptomatic in early stages (58%) or recur post-treatment (45%). Misconceptions like linking tumors to mobile phone usage were prevalent in 62% of respondents. Overall, 19% demonstrated “Very Good” awareness, 33% had “Good” knowledge, while 36.5% and 11.5% showed only “Fair” and “Poor” understanding, respectively. Awareness levels varied notably with education and residence, with rural and less-educated individuals showing significantly lower scores. Conclusion: Despite a basic level of public understanding, major gaps and myths continue to influence how brain tumors are perceived in Shimla. These findings underscore the need for focused, culturally sensitive health education campaigns, particularly in rural and underserved areas, to encourage early recognition and timely medical consultation.

Background: Strabismus, commonly known as squint, is a visual condition marked by eye misalignment, impacting binocular vision and often leading to amblyopia (lazy eye) if untreated. Despite its prevalence, public awareness remains limited, particularly in underserved regions. This study assessed awareness, knowledge and preventive practices regarding strabismus among residents of Himachal Pradesh, India. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 adults in Himachal Pradesh using a structured online questionnaire. Data on demographics, awareness and preventive practices were collected. Knowledge scores were classified as Very Good (>80%), Good (60%-79%), Fair (41%-59%) and Poor (<40%). Analysis was conducted using SPSS v26.0 with p<0.05 significance. Results: While 81% identified strabismus as “squint” or “crossed eyes,” only 60.3% recognized vitamin A’s role in eye health and 63.3% were aware of amblyopia as a risk. Knowledge scores indicated 40.3% had “Very Good” knowledge, 37.3% “Good,” 15.8% “Fair,” and 6.8% “Poor,” with lower awareness levels prevalent among rural and less-educated participants. Conclusion: Although awareness of strabismus was promising, critical gaps in symptom recognition, risk awareness and preventive practices persist. Targeted educational campaigns, school-based screenings and improved healthcare access are essential to enhance early diagnosis and management.
 

Background: Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are among the most common benign tumors affecting women during their reproductive years. Despite their high prevalence, public understanding of fibroids and their treatment—especially surgical options—remains limited, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. This study aimed to assess public knowledge and attitudes toward uterine fibroids and surgical interventions in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from October to December 2024 among 400 adults in Kangra. Participants were selected through purposive and convenience sampling to ensure representation across age, gender, education and geography. A structured bilingual questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographics, fibroid-related knowledge and treatment perceptions. Data were gathered online, then analyzed using SPSS v26.0. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests (p < 0.05) were applied. Results: Among 400 participants, 78.5% were female and 55% lived in rural areas. While 77.3% identified fibroids as non-cancerous growths and 73.3% were aware of ultrasound as a diagnostic tool, only 67.0% knew hysterectomy is not the only treatment option. Awareness of symptoms like heavy bleeding (71.5%) and treatment options like myomectomy (67.8%) was moderate. Encouragingly, 79.3% were open to surgery if needed and 80.5% supported routine screening. Overall, 39.0% had “Very Good” knowledge, 40.0% had “Good” knowledge, while 21.0% demonstrated “Fair” to “Poor” understanding. Conclusion: While general awareness of uterine fibroids in Kangra is promising, gaps persist in understanding treatment alternatives and overcoming surgical fear. Targeted education campaigns and accessible gynecological services are essential to foster informed choices and improve reproductive health outcomes in rural and underserved communities.

Background: Maternal Body Mass Index (BMI) significantly impacts pregnancy outcomes. Underweight women face increased risks of anemia, Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR), preterm birth, and low birth weight, while overweight women have higher incidences of gestational hypertension (PIH), Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM), labor induction, cesarean delivery, and macrosomia. This study evaluates the effect of BMI and Gestational Weight Gain (GWG) on obstetric outcomes. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College, Tanda, over one year (January-December 2019). 200 pregnant women with singleton pregnancies were categorized as underweight (BMI <18.5 kg/m²), normal weight (BMI 18.5-22.9 kg/m²), or overweight (BMI >23 kg/m²). Maternal and neonatal outcomes were analyzed using SPSS v21.0, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results: Among 200 women, 14% were underweight, 41% normal weight, and 45% overweight. Preterm birth was highest in underweight women (42.8%, p<0.0001), while PIH (27.7%, p = 0.024), GDM (11.1%), and labor induction (40%, p<0.0001) were significantly higher in overweight women. Low birth weight (<2.5 kg) was most common in underweight women (67.8%, p<0.0001), whereas macrosomia (>4 kg) occurred only in overweight women (5.6%, p = 0.049). Cesarean section rates were also highest in overweight women (24.7%) compared to normal BMI (23.1%) and underweight (7.1%). APGAR scores at 5 minutes were lower in underweight and overweight neonates compared to normal weight, but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.26). NICU admission rates were highest in underweight neonates (14.2%), followed by overweight (7.8%) and normal weight (4.8%), though this was not statistically significant (p = 0.26). Conclusion: Both low and high BMI adversely affect pregnancy outcomes, with underweight linked to IUGR and preterm birth, while overweight increases risks of PIH, GDM, macrosomia, and cesarean delivery. Preconception counseling, weight management, and close monitoring of gestational weight gain are crucial for improving maternal and neonatal health.

Background: The reason why family planning techniques aren't used is a lack of awareness about the numerous contraceptive options. The current study examined the knowledge of contraceptives among women of reproductive age and was carried out in Himachal Pradesh. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of females in the state of Himachal Pradesh who are of reproductive age was carried out between January 2023 and March 2023 utilizing Google forms. Until 400 replies were received, the google form was distributed to female state residents in the reproductive age range for responses via email and social networking sites like Whatsapp groups, Facebook, Instagram, and Linkedin. We learned about their socio-demographic make-up and their familiarity with contraception. The Epi info v7 programme was used to run the data through the necessary statistical tests. Results: A total of 400 females of reproductive age were participated, maximum 155 (38.75%) were having age between 26-30 years, educated up to Matric & Senior Secondary 158(39.5%), Hindu 379(94.75%) and unemployed/housewife 323(80.75%). In the present study 13.75% (55) females had very good knowledge (16-20 marks) towards contraceptives, 67.5% (270) having good knowledge (12-15 marks), 16.5% (66) having fair knowledge (8-11 marks) and 2.25% (9) having poor knowledge (<8 marks). Conclusions: This study found that study participants had a respectable degree of awareness about contraceptive options. To encourage the use of contemporary contraceptive techniques among women, ongoing education and regular communication on the significance of birth control are necessary.