Epidermiological markers in pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) among the women of reproductive age group Original paper

What was studied?

This study examined the epidemiological markers associated with pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women of reproductive age in the Akola-Washim city area, Maharashtra, India. The researchers analyzed data collected from 611 women diagnosed with PID over a three-year period (2009-2012). The primary goal was to explore the socio-demographic, reproductive, and lifestyle factors that may contribute to the prevalence of PID. The study utilized medical records and personal interviews to collect comprehensive data, which was then processed statistically to identify significant associations with PID risk. By examining variables like age, marital status, education, economic status, occupation, and reproductive history, the study aimed to identify patterns that could inform better public health strategies for preventing and managing PID.

Who was studied?

The study involved 611 women diagnosed with PID who were recruited from both government and private hospitals in the Akola-Washim area. The women were of reproductive age and were diagnosed with PID either based on clinical symptoms or through laboratory confirmation. The demographic information, including age, marital status, education, occupation, and economic status, was collected through hospital records and personal interviews. The sample population predominantly included women from rural areas and from various socio-economic backgrounds, with a focus on women from the Below Poverty Line (BPL) sector. This study sought to determine how various socio-demographic and health-related factors influenced the incidence of PID in this specific region.

What were the most important findings?

The study revealed that several socio-demographic and health-related factors are significantly associated with PID risk. Women aged 20-25 years had the highest incidence of PID, followed by teenagers. Most of the women diagnosed with PID were married (86.08%), highlighting the link between sexual activity and infection. Additionally, uneducated women (80.03%) and those from lower economic backgrounds (62.02%) had a higher incidence of PID, suggesting that lack of knowledge about sexual health, hygiene, and reproductive care is a contributing factor. The study also identified a higher prevalence of PID among overweight women (48.28%) and those residing in rural areas (64.97%). Women with a history of ectopic pregnancies (60.39%) and habitual miscarriages (55.97%) were more likely to have PID. These findings underscore the role of education, economic status, and access to healthcare in the prevention of PID.

What are the greatest implications of this study?

This study has important public health implications, especially for developing strategies to reduce PID incidence and improve women’s reproductive health. The findings indicate that PID is more common in socio-economically disadvantaged groups, emphasizing the need for targeted education and healthcare interventions for young, uneducated, and economically disadvantaged women. Public health programs should focus on improving awareness about the risks of PID and the importance of early treatment, especially in rural areas. The study also highlights the importance of improving access to gynecological care and providing healthcare services that cater to the needs of working women, particularly in low-income settings. Future research should aim to confirm these findings through larger, more diverse studies and explore further preventive measures, particularly for high-risk groups.