Investigating the biochemical association of gestational diabetes mellitus with dyslipidemia and hemoglobin.

Aims: To investigate the biochemical correlation of hemoglobin (Hb), dyslipidemia, and HbA1c with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Background: GDM is a condition that develops during pregnancy and is characterized by high blood sugar levels. Biochemical parameters such as hemoglobin (Hb), dyslipidemia, and HbA1c have been implicated in the development of GDM. Understanding the correlation between these biochemical parameters and GDM can provide insights into the underlying mechanisms and potential diagnostic markers for the condition. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the correlation of various biochemical parameters, including Hb, dyslipidemia, and HbA1c, in pregnant women with and without GDM. Method: A cross-sectional study design was used. Pregnant females attending a tertiary care hospital in Faisalabad between September 1st, 2021, and June 25th, 2022, were included in the study. The participants were divided into two groups: those with GDM (GDM group) and those without GDM (non-GDM group). Blood glucose, Hb, and lipid levels were compared between the two groups using statistical tests, including chi-square, independent sample t-test, and Pearson's correlation. Result: Out of the 500 participants, 261 were in the 2nd trimester and 239 in the 3rd trimester. Maternal age showed a significant difference between the GDM and non-GDM groups. The levels of Hb, TC, HDL, LDL, and HbA1c significantly differed (p < 0.05) between the two groups. TC (r = 0.397), TG (r = 0.290), and LDL (r = 0.509) showed a statistically significant and moderately positive correlation with GDM. HDL (r = -0.394) and Hb (r = -0.294) showed a moderate negative correlation with GDM. Conclusion: Increased levels of HbA1c, TC, and LDL, along with decreased levels of HDL and Hb, were identified as contributing factors to GDM. The levels of TC, TG, and LDL were positively correlated with GDM, while HDL and Hb were negatively correlated. The findings of this study suggest that monitoring and managing hemoglobin, dyslipidemia, and HbA1c levels during pregnancy may be important in identifying and potentially preventing or managing GDM. Further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms and potential interventions targeting these biochemical parameters in relation to GDM.

Assessment of health-related quality of life in hypertensive hemodialysis patients.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Globally, the prevalence of hypertension (HTN) with the coexistence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasing, resulting in poor quality of life. The main objective of the study was to measure the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of hypertensive hemodialysis patients. METHODS: A multicenter follow-up study was carried out in six public and two private dialysis centers in Pakistan. A total of 517 hypertensive hemodialysis patients responded by completing the questionnaire at baseline and two subsequent phases. The quality of life of these patients was assessed using the EQ-5D-5L questionnaire (a standardized instrument for measuring generic health status). Statistical analysis was done using a multivariate linear regression model, Friedman test and Kruskal Wallis test. RESULTS: The majority of patients (58.2%) had normal body mass index and about 60.5% of the patients were taking less salt due to HTN. Friedman test gave the statistically significant results (p ≤ 0.001) in systolic blood pressure (BP), diastolic BP and EQ-5D visual analogue scale (VAS) score between three phases (initial visit, first follow-up and second follow-up). A significant improvement was observed in self-care and usual activities from initial visit to first follow-up (p < 0.05). The most problematic dimension among the hypertensive patients with CKD was pain/discomfort (86.5%). CONCLUSIONS: HTN with coexisting CKD in hemodialysis patients severely affected HRQoL. Pain/discomfort was the most problematic dimension among the participants.

Natural Immunity Boosters as Therapeutic Interventions in the Era of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

COVID-19, a pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2, has been spread all over the world and is responsible for serious fatalities. SARS-CoV-2 belongs to the family of ß-coronavirus that affects pulmonary gas exchange and triggers cytokines storm. Vigorous inflammation, hyper-coagulation, a decrease in the lymphocytic count, and an increase in the neutrophilic count are observed in the second week after the onset of the disease. Fever, dry cough, sneezing, shortness of breath, and respiratory distress are the symptoms of COVID-19. The use of sanitizers, social distancing, vaccination, wearing gloves and face masks, and other preventative measures are all important in preventing coronavirus outbreaks. People with weak immunity are more susceptible to coronavirus. Various natural immunity boosters are known for their immune boosting properties; among them are vitamin C, D, and B complex, medicinal mushrooms, plant-based stuff, and minerals play important roles by increasing the beneficial flora of the human body. All these natural immunity boosters improve the innate and adaptive immune response against coronavirus. Hence, we conclude that the use of natural immunity boosters prevents the attack of coronavirus and makes a person stronger against the suspected attack of COVID-19 and/or other viral diseases.