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BACKGROUND: Women empowerment is a crucial issue that is less studied as a factor of contraceptive use among married women that helps to achieve sustainable development goals. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the relationship between women empowerment and contraceptive use. STUDY DESIGN: This cross-sectional study used 2017–2018 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey data, which included 12,006 women (weighted) aged 15 to 49 years. Hierarchical logistic regression and structural equation models were used to show the relationship between women empowerment and contraceptive use. RESULTS: Overall, increased use of contraception was associated with increased age, urban residence, increased wealth index, and education level of both the husband and wife. After controlling individual and locality factors, the findings from the regression model showed that women empowerment in terms of women decision-making, attitude toward violence, and social independence significantly influences contraceptive use (P.05). CONCLUSION: This study implies that greater women empowerment may not always act as a stronger determinant of contraceptive use, and therefore, other contributing factors, such as age, education, religion, husband's participation, joined decision-making, economic status, and couple relationship, should be considered.

Abstract This study aims to evaluate the heavy metal concentration in fifteen species of vegetables as well as associated health risk. Atomic absorption spectrometry is used to assess heavy metals. The mean concentrations of Pb, Cd, Cr, Ni and Fe in vegetables were 4.78, 0.713, 9.266, 0.083, 5.06 mg/kg/fw exceeding the reference value of FAO/WHO indicating unsafe to consumption. Based on principal component analysis, the Pb, Cr, Ni and Fe are from same sources. Health risk was estimated in terms of estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient, hazard index (HI) and cancer risk (CR). The EDI values of metals except Cr were found to be lower than maximum tolerable daily intake (MTDI). The total THQs of metals were > 1 indicating non-carcinogenic health risk. The individual HI values for vegetables except potato (0.831) and total HI values were found to be > 1 (94.747). The TCR of Pb, Cd and Cr were > 1.0E−04 which indicating carcinogenic risk. Fruit and pod vegetables contribute much in carcinogenic risk for Pb and Cr whereas fruit, root and stems vegetables for Cd. The study revealed potential human health risk associated with the consumption of different types of vegetables in Bangladeshi adult population that might assist the regulatory bodies to develop new strategies to minimize the risk to human.

ABSTRACT Introduction Globally malnutrition is considered one of the greatest threats to public health, particularly in low‐ and middle‐income countries. The present study examined the extent of undernutrition and the associated determinants among children aged 6–59 months in Bangladesh using data from the Nutrition Survey of Bangladesh (NSB), 2017–18. Methods The sampling frame of NSB 2017–18 was specified by a 30 (locations) × 30 (households) cluster approach where 20 locations were from rural areas and the other 10 were from urban areas. Out of the sampled households, 566 children aged between 6 and 59 months were included in the analysis. Determinants of three anthropometric measures, weight‐for‐age (stunting), weight‐for‐height (wasting), and weight‐for‐age (underweight), were analyzed using a multiple logistic regression model. Result The prevalence of stunting, underweight, and wasting of children was 34.5%, 40.6%, and 20.1%, respectively. Although the child's age, family size, cleanliness of the residential area, and food insecurity were significant determinants of malnutrition, inadequate and low‐quality protein consumption strongly predicted the development of underweight and stunting in infants and children. The odds of being stunted were 2 times (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 2.02, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.17–3.46; p = 0.011) and underweight was almost 2.5 times (AOR: 2.41; 95% CI: 1.27–4.56; p

This study examined the quantities of heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Pb, Ni, Fe, and Cu) in commercially available meat, poultry, and game products in Noakhali, Bangladesh, and their potential health effects, as heavy metal contamination poses a significant food safety risk to human health Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry was used to analyze heavy metals, and the health risk assessment was based on Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Targeted Hazard Quotient (THQ), Total THQ, and Total Carcinogenic Risk (TCR). Most samples exceeded Maximum Allowable Concentrations (MAC) for heavy metals. The EDI value of Cd, Pb, and Cr for duck liver, goat liver, and pigeon brain, were higher than the Maximum Tolerable Dietary Intake (MTDI). Children had 1.28 times higher HI values than an adult. The calculation of THQ of all elements in adults and children was in the order of Cu; Pb; Ni; Cr; Cd; and Fe. The calculated TTHQ values were in the range of 0.051 to 1.988 and 0.047 to 3.975 for adults and children, respectively. The TCR values for Cd in poultry liver, brain, and meat, Sonali chicken, cow, pigeon, duck, and goat liver were higher than the reference value for adults and children, suggesting a potential cancer risk. The average exposure to lead leads to an increase in blood pressure by 0.47 mmHg and a decrease in IQ score by 1.94 points. The present study reveals the need to determine strong relationships between heavy metal exposure and food supply.

Objectives: Household hygiene and food safety are essential parts of food security; better food safety and hygiene will help reduce the chances of illness for young children and family members rarely studied in the selected area of coastal Bangladesh. The study aimed to discover the knowledge, attitude, and practice levels for cleanliness, hygiene, and food safety in the household. Methods: In this study, we employed a cross-sectional survey with simple random sampling to collect data from 384 childbearing mothers. The survey used the pretested, validated, and standardized (knowledge, attitude, and practice) questionnaire-model-based interview guide. Results: According to our study analysis, the knowledge, attitude, and practice scores among mothers were inadequate for household cleanliness and hygiene management. In the area context, knowledge efficiency was related to family type (joint and nuclear). Family economic conditions strongly influenced mothers’ attitudes and behavior toward knowledge, attitude, and practice score. Unemployed and illiterate mothers have lower knowledge, attitude, and practice scores. Educated mothers have better knowledge, attitude, and practice score compared to illiterate mothers ( p

There are growing concerns for food safety due to the risks associated with heavy metal contamination of culinary herbs and spices in developing countries like Bangladesh. The objective of the present cross-sectional study is to determine the concentrations of the heavy metals Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), Copper (Cu), and Iron (Fe) in the branded and non-branded spices collected from the Noakhali district by Atomic absorption spectrophotometry method, as well as to assess the health hazard risk associated with heavy metals intake via consumption of spices. The findings revealed that the greatest concentrations of Pb (15.47 ± 1.93), Cd (1.65 ± 0.011), Cr (31.99 ± 3.97), Cu (18.84 ± 1.97), and Fe (9.29 ± 1.71) were found in Cardamom, Coriander leaf, Bay leaf, Dried chili, and Black pepper respectively. Around 37 % of Cr and 5 % of Fe Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) were greater than reference doses (RfD). All spices had Total Hazard Quotient (THQ) values for Pb, Cd, Cu, and Fe that were below acceptable, and 37 % of all spices had Total Target Hazard Quotient (TTHQ) values for Pb, Cd, Cu, and Fe that were over the standard range, suggesting adverse health impacts for consumers. Green chili, ginger, coriander leaf, and all kinds of chili powder and turmeric powder have been reported to have exceptionally high TTHQ levels of Cr. The estimated carcinogenic risk for chromium in non-branded coriander leaf was found to be higher than safe levels. This study provides valuable insights into the commonly consumed spices in Bangladesh and their potential health risks associated with heavy metal contamination. The findings of this study can be used by regulatory authorities to develop effective strategies and actions to mitigate these risks and safeguard public health.

The concentration of iodine in edible salt and its stability in different brands were evaluated in Noakhali district, Bangladesh using iodometric titration. Brand A and B had unacceptable amounts of iodine, whereas Brand C and D had appropriate amounts according to the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institute (BSTI) standards. Iodine loss due to humidity and temperature gradually increased from 2 to 4 days for brands B, C, and D (slower in Brand A), and stabilizing after six days. The structural Model Equation (SME) revealed that, maternal education, family income, and consumer satisfaction level (CSL) positively affected different brands of salt use (p ≤ 0.05). These findings provide a clear understanding that, Iodine content in different Salt Brands available in the Noakhali region varies and decreases with exposure to air over time, as well as CSL towards different salt brands (Brand A-least satisfactory and Brand D-most satisfactory). CSL was about 2.35 and 4.19 times higher in Brand C and D due to having iodized salt with the satisfactory range of BSTI (p ≤ 0.05). The study emphasized that, care should be taken during the salt manufacturing and packaging process, distribution, and storage condition at the household level to ensure adequate intake of iodine.

Background: In Bangladesh, the utilization of maternal health services is low, which triggers pregnancy-related complications and maternal deaths. The current community-based cross-sectional study aims to evaluate the factors associated with antenatal care (ANC), institutional delivery, and postnatal care (PNC) service utilization among women in selected areas of Southwest Dhaka, Bangladesh. Methods: The study was carried out among 391 mothers from rural and urban areas. Data were collected using a standard questionnaire. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the significant determinants associated with maternity care service utilization. Results: Result shows that approximately 65%, 71%, and 72% of women utilized the recommended ANC, institutional delivery, and PNC, respectively. The utilization of ANC was associated with residence type and women’s education, whereas the utilization of institutional delivery and PNC was associated with residence type, women’s education, husband’s education and employment status, family size, monthly family income, and received ANC. The use of ANC and healthy delivery facilities is another important predictor of PNC service utilization. Conclusions: Considering these findings, improved maternal health services, increased availability and affordability of services, counseling, and education during pregnancy are advocated throughout the country.

Abstract Background and Aims The global Coronavirus‐2 outbreak has emerged as a significant threat to majority of individuals around the world. The most effective solution for addressing this viral outbreak is through vaccination. Simultaneously, the virus's mutation capabilities pose a potential risk to the effectiveness of both vaccines and, in certain instances, newly developed drugs. Conversely, the human body's immune system exhibits a robust ability to combat viral outbreaks with substantial confidence, as evidenced by the ratio of fatalities to affected individuals worldwide. Hence, an alternative strategy to mitigate this pandemic could involve enhancing the immune system's resilience. Methods The research objective of the review is to acquire a comprehensive understanding of the role of inflammation and immunity in COVID‐19. The pertinent literature concerning immune system functions, the impact of inflammation against viruses like SARS‐CoV‐2, and the connection between nutritional interventions, inflammation, and immunity was systematically explored. Results Enhancing immune function involves mitigating the impact of key factors that negatively influence the immune response. Strengthening the immune system against emerging diseases can be achieved through nonpharmaceutical measures such as maintaining a balanced nutrition, engaging in regular exercise, ensuring adequate sleep, and managing stress. Conclusion This review aims to convey the significance of and provide recommendations for immune‐strengthening strategies amidst the ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic.

The average life expectancy of the Bangladeshi population has risen over the last decade due to economic growth and improved medical care. Although the increased number of older adults and their health is a significant concern, there is scarce of data regarding that. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted to analyze the association between nutritional status and functional ability among selected Bangladeshi geriatric populations living in their homes. Of 400 participants, the prevalence of malnutrition, and people at risk of malnutrition was 25.4% and 58.8%, respectively. Furthermore, almost 80% of participants are dependent in terms of activities of daily living. High risk of falling ( OR = 10.82; 95% CI: 5.85–20.37; p ≤ .001), limited activities of daily living (IADL) ( OR = 6.21; 95% CI: 4.02–9.58; p ≤ .001), along with dependency in performing IADL ( OR = 4.48; 95% CI: 2.83–7.06; p ≤ .001) are significantly associated with malnutrition. Geriatric malnutrition can accelerate disability conditions, leading to early functional aging.

BackgroundTeachers play a pivotal role in imparting nutritional knowledge to their students. This research aimed to evaluate the nutrition-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of selected Bangladeshi school teachers across the country.MethodsA cross-sectional study was performed using a multistage sampling method. A pretested and structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics, multiple regression analysis, and ANOVA tests, were performed to carry out the study.ResultsAmong the 280 participants, only 9.9% were happy with their understanding of childhood nutrition requirements, around 54.2% were familiar with basic nutrition-related knowledge, and overall, 97.7% of participants had a positive attitude towards learning about nutrition-related knowledge focusing on the well-being of children. Moreover, only 38.7% had training in pediatric nutrition. Age, type of school, type of residence, professional training of school teachers, and the intent of having ever taken part or paying attention to nutrition-related knowledge significantly impacted the respondents' nutrition knowledge score (pConclusionAdequate planning and intervention measures should be developed to improve teachers' understanding, behavior, and practice that encourage the growth of optimal nutrition-related behavior among school-aged children to establish a healthy nation.

Abstract Background and Aims The purpose of this study was to evaluate the Bangladeshi people's current knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) on obesity and physical activity (PA), as well as the associated factors. Methods The KAP was evaluated using a standard questionnaire among 429 individuals, of whom 75.5% were men and had a mean age (±SD) of 28.9 ± 7.9 years. Using a mobile‐based KoBo toolbox v.25.0 program, information was gathered from respondents who resided in various districts. A Chi‐square test and a linear regression test were performed to determine the relationship between the variables, and a one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to the determine differences in means. Results The study showed that more than 95% of participants had good knowledge level, although the attitude and practice levels were low. Based on ANOVA test, the mean knowledge score was significantly different (p

Background: Mothers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward exclusive breastfeeding are crucial to both child and mother’s health and wellbeing. Hence, This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices of exclusive breastfeeding among lactating mothers as well as the predictors of their exclusive breastfeeding practice. Methodology: This cross-sectional study included 397 mothers having infants aged 0–6 months who sought care at Noakhali Sadar Upazila, Noakhali, Bangladesh. A field-tested and validated Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) questionnaire was utilized to collect information from participants. Results: Of those evaluated; 29.0% of mothers could not define exclusive breastfeeding accurately, 11.3% and 59.3% did not know the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding for babies and mothers, respectively. More than half (51.4%) of the mothers reported feeling good about exclusive breastfeeding for six months, did not find difficulties to breastfeed exclusively for six months (39.5%) and on-demand (58.2%). The mothers had an overall favorable attitude towards exclusive breastfeeding; however, 38.3% of mothers did not exclusively breastfeed their children. Literate mothers tended to exclusively breastfeed more (AOR: 3.06, 95% CI: 1.01–9.32; P = 0.049) than illiterate mothers. Mothers having one baby were more likely to breastfeed exclusively (AOR: 3.07, 95% CI: 1.21–7.78; P = 0.018) than mothers having more than one baby. Moreover, mothers with higher knowledge and favorable attitude had more than two times (AOR: 2.58, 95% CI: 1.315.07; P = 0.006) and forty-three times (AOR: 43.18, 95% CI: 21.513–86.66; P < 0.001) the higher tendency of exclusive breastfeeding compared to others. Conclusion: Despite having satisfactory knowledge and attitude, the practice of exclusive breastfeeding among mothers was poor. We recommend that interventions must be focused more on ensuring exclusive breastfeeding practice among mothers in addition to improving their knowledge and attitudes.

Among legumes, the lentil (Lens culinaris) is a major dietary component in many Mediterranean and Asian countries due to its high nutritional value, especially protein. However, allergic reactions triggered by lentil consumption have also been documented in many countries. Complete allergens profiling is critical for better management of lentil food allergies. Earlier studies suggested Len c 1, a 47 kDa vicilin, Len c 2, a seed-specific-biotinylated 66-kDa protein, and Len c 3, low molecular weight lipid transfer proteins (LTPs) were major allergenic proteins in lentils. Recently, mass-spectrometry-based proteomic platforms successfully identified proteins from lentil samples homologous to known plant allergens. Furthermore, in silico analysis using 337 protein sequences revealed lentil allergens that have not previously been identified as potential allergens in lentil. Herein, we discuss the feasibility of omics platforms utilized for lentil allergens profiling and quantification. In addition, we propose some future strategies that might be beneficial for profiling and development of precise assays for lentil allergens and could facilitate identification of the low allergen-containing lentil cultivars.

Background: There are currently no reports showing the relationship between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and menopause among Bangladeshi women with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Aim: The present study aims to examine the prevalence of MetS and evaluate the impact of menopausal status on the MetS among women with CVD in Bangladesh. Materials and Methods: Data for the present analysis were collected from a cross-sectional study of 355 cardiovascular patients seeking care at five tertiary care hospitals in Bangladesh. A total of 146 women were included for this secondary analysis. The MetS was identified based on the definition of the Adult Treatment Panel (ATP) III of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP). Results: About 45.83% pre-menopausal and 59.02% post-menopausal women were noticed to have MetS. The mean waist circumference, systolic, and diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglyceride, and random plasma glucose levels were higher in post-menopausal women whereas HDL cholesterol value was higher in pre-menopausal women. The multivariate-adjusted odds ratio showed that post-menopausal status (Adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.72; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.04-4.94) and obesity (AOR: 8.20; 95% CI: 1.15-58.77) were significantly associated with the presence of the MetS among women with CVD. Conclusion: The high prevalence of MetS among women with CVD is evident, particularly post-menopausal women. Hence, the present findings can alert women from the earlier stages of the menopausal transition to prevent the appearance of MetS.