Abstract Background: Blood donation is a critical component of healthcare systems worldwide, particularly in regions with endemic diseases like malaria. Hemoglobinopathies, such as sickle cell trait (HbAS) and other variants like HbAC, can influence the safety of blood donations, particularly in malaria-endemic areas. Understanding the hemoglobin profiles of voluntary blood donors is essential for ensuring safe blood transfusions. Objective: The objective of this study was to examine the demographic characteristics and hemoglobin phenotypes of voluntary blood donors at LSBTS, Bangladesh, with a focus on their potential impact on transfusion safety. Methods: A total of 300 voluntary blood donors were included in the study. Demographic data including age, gender, occupation, and marital status were collected. Hemoglobin phenotypes were assessed using standard hematological methods. Donor history, including frequency of previous donations and the most recent donation year, was also recorded. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to identify trends and associations. Results: Most participants (80%) exhibited the normal hemoglobin phenotype (HbAA), followed by 18% with the sickle cell trait (HbAS) and 2% with other variants (HbAC). The donor population was predominantly male (70%) and largely aged between 26 and 45 years (68%). A significant proportion (62%) were repeat donors, with 70% having donated blood in 2023. Weight distribution and hemoglobin levels showed no significant association with hemoglobin phenotypes, indicating consistent donor health across groups. These findings suggest a stable donor pool with diverse hemoglobin profiles, underscoring the importance of ongoing screening and monitoring to maintain transfusion safety. Conclusion:  This study highlights the predominance of HbAA among voluntary blood donors in Bangladesh, suggesting that the majority of blood donations are likely to be safe for transfusion. However, the presence of HbAS and HbAC in the donor population underscores the importance of comprehensive pre-donation screening, particularly in malaria-endemic regions. Health promotion efforts should focus on enhancing donor recruitment and retention, with targeted campaigns for younger and male populations, as well as healthcare workers.

Abstract Background:  Thyroid dysfunction, encompassing hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, has been implicated in metabolic dysregulation, including disturbances in glucose and lipid metabolism. Given the rising global prevalence of metabolic disorders such as diabetes and dyslipidemia, understanding the interplay between thyroid hormones and metabolic health is crucial. This study aimed to investigate the association between thyroid dysfunction and metabolic parameters in a clinical population. Methods:  A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Diabetic Care Center, Dhaka, from January to June 2023, involving 140 adult participants. Thyroid function (TSH, FT₃, FT₄), glycemic markers (FBG, ABF, HbA1c), and lipid profiles were assessed. Statistical analyses included correlation tests and multivariate regression to evaluate relationships between thyroid and metabolic parameters. Results: The study revealed that hypothyroid participants had significantly higher fasting blood glucose (124.7 ± 18.9 mg/dL vs. 108.3 ± 14.5 mg/dL, p < 0.01), postprandial glucose (165.5 ± 25.4 mg/dL vs. 143.9 ± 20.2 mg/dL, p < 0.01), and HbA1c (7.4 ± 1.3% vs. 6.5 ± 1.1%, p < 0.01) compared to euthyroid individuals. Additionally, hypothyroidism was associated with elevated total cholesterol (218.6 ± 34.5 mg/dL vs. 190.4 ± 28.6 mg/dL, p < 0.05) and LDL (141.7 ± 27.8 mg/dL vs. 119.5 ± 23.3 mg/dL, p < 0.05), alongside reduced HDL (39.2 ± 7.3 mg/dL vs. 44.7 ± 8.9 mg/dL, p = 0.04). Hyperthyroid patients also exhibited metabolic disturbances, including higher FBG (116.1 ± 16.8 mg/dL) and triglycerides (176.5 ± 38.7 mg/dL). Correlation analysis demonstrated a significant association between TSH and HbA1c (r = 0.38, p < 0.01), reinforcing the role of thyroid dysfunction in metabolic dysregulation. Conclusion:  Thyroid dysfunction, particularly hypothyroidism, is significantly associated with impaired glycemic control and dyslipidemia. Routine thyroid screening in metabolic disorder patients and integrated management strategies are recommended to mitigate cardiovascular and diabetic risks.

Abstract Background: Dengue virus (DENV) infection is a rapidly spreading mosquito-borne disease with significant global health implications, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Despite extensive research, regional variations in clinical and laboratory profiles necessitate further investigation to improve diagnosis and management. Aim of the Study: This retrospective study aimed to analyze the hematological, biochemical, and serological profiles of seropositive dengue patients admitted to a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh, with a focus on identifying gender-specific patterns and disease severity markers. Methods: A total of 134 serologically confirmed dengue patients (93 males, 41 females) admitted to a tertiary care hospital between June and September 2024 were included. Data were extracted from medical records, including demographics, clinical symptoms, hematological parameters (complete blood count, platelet indices), liver and renal function tests, inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR), and serological status (NS1, IgM, IgG). Laboratory analyses were performed using standardized automated techniques. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, comparative tests (t-tests, Mann-Whitney U), and correlation analyses (Spearman’s rho) to assess relationships between key parameters. Results: The study population had a male predominance (69.4%), with a mean age of 32.5 ± 18.2 years. The most affected age group was 15–30 years (32.8%). Fever (98.5%), headache (92.5%), and vomiting (85.1%) were the most common symptoms, with rash being more prevalent in females (43.9% vs. 30.1%, *p*=0.12). Hematological findings revealed thrombocytopenia (mean platelets: 148 ± 98 ×10³/µL) and leukopenia (4.5% with WBC <2.0 ×10³/µL). Females had significantly lower hemoglobin (12.5 ± 1.9 g/dL vs. 13.5 ± 1.7 g/dL, *p*=0.003) and higher ALT levels (63.1 ± 550 U/L vs. 45.8 ± 180 U/L, *p*=0.04). Severe abnormalities included thrombocytopenia (<50,000/µL) in 9% of cases and elevated ALT >200 U/L in 3.7%. A strong correlation was observed between ALT and AST (r=0.85, *p*<0.001), indicating concurrent hepatic injury. Serologically, NS1 positivity (89%) dominated, confirming acute infection, with no significant gender differences in IgM (7.5%) or IgG (5.2%) rates. Conclusion: The study highlights gender-specific variations in dengue manifestations, with females showing greater hepatic involvement and anemia. Hematological and biochemical markers remain crucial for early risk stratification and clinical management.

Abstract Background:  Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a rapidly increasing metabolic disorder worldwide, particularly in South Asia. Bangladesh faces a growing prevalence, with nearly one in ten adults affected. Beyond hyperglycemia, T2DM impacts renal, hepatic, lipid, and electrolyte metabolism. Sex-specific differences in biochemical profiles are increasingly recognized, but data from Bangladeshi populations remain limited. Objective: To evaluate biochemical profiles of adult patients with T2DM in Bangladesh, stratified by sex, and to explore interrelationships among laboratory indices using correlation and principal component analyses (PCA). Methods : Routine biochemical parameters, including renal, hepatic, lipid, electrolyte, and glycemic markers, were analyzed in adult diabetic patients attending a single-center facility. Independent-sample t  tests were used for group comparisons, Pearson’s correlation assessed associations between variables, and PCA was applied to identify latent patterns and dimensionality reduction.       Results:  Most biochemical parameters showed no significant sex differences. However, males had higher HbA1c (9.46 ± 1.76 vs. 8.86 ± 1.42; p  = 0.024) and bilirubin levels (0.76 ± 0.21 vs. 0.61 ± 0.21 mg/dL; p  = 0.0005). Strong correlations were observed between urea and creatinine ( r  = 0.73, p  < 0.001), AST and ALT ( r  = 0.64, p  < 0.001), and between fasting blood sugar and both random blood sugar ( r  = 0.54, p  < 0.01) and HbA1c ( r  = 0.52, p  < 0.01). Albumin inversely correlated with urea ( r  = –0.39, p  < 0.05). In the lipid profile, cholesterol was strongly correlated with both HDL ( r  = 0.75, p  < 0.001) and LDL ( r  = 0.72, p  < 0.001). Electrolytes showed weak or nonsignificant associations. PCA revealed moderate dimensionality reduction, with PC1 and PC2 explaining 13.9% and 12.4% of variance, respectively. HbA1c, bilirubin, and creatinine contributed most to sex-based separation, whereas lipids and electrolytes had minimal influence. Conclusion:  This study indicates that sex-specific differences in T2DM are primarily reflected in glycemic control and bilirubin metabolism, while most other biochemical indices remain comparable. Correlation and PCA findings emphasize the interconnected nature of renal, hepatic, and glycemic parameters, supporting their integrated evaluation in clinical management of diabetes.

Abstract Background:  Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a major global public health concern, particularly in high-prevalence regions such as sub-Saharan Africa. In Somalia, maternal HBV screening and vaccination programs are limited, contributing to a high risk of mother-to-child transmission. Objective:  To determine the seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and assess related awareness, testing history, and preventive knowledge among pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) at Tayo Hospital, Baidoa, Somalia. Methods:  A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 80 pregnant women selected through simple random sampling at Tayo Hospital between July 2022 and March 2023. Data were collected using structured questionnaires on socio-demographic characteristics, HBV knowledge, and risk factors. Blood samples (3 mL) were tested for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) using rapid diagnostic test kits. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20, with results summarized in frequencies and percentages. Results: The majority of participants (57.5%) were aged 21–26 years, and 41.3% were illiterate. Only 18.8% had ever been tested for HBV, and 18.8% had received vaccination. HBsAg positivity was detected in 35 out of 80 respondents, yielding a high seroprevalence of 43.8% . Knowledge of HBV prevention was generally low; only 26.3% identified vaccination as a preventive measure, and misconceptions—such as airborne transmission—were common. Major information sources were magazines (20.0%), television (16.3%), and the internet (15.0%), with limited health-professional engagement. Conclusion:  HBV seroprevalence among pregnant women in Baidoa is alarmingly high, compounded by low testing uptake, low vaccination coverage, and inadequate awareness. Strengthening routine antenatal HBV screening, increasing vaccination access, and enhancing health education are critical for preventing maternal and neonatal transmission.

Abstract Background:  Metabolic Syndrome (MS) is a multifactorial disorder characterized by a cluster of interrelated cardiometabolic risk factors such as central obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and impaired glucose metabolism. It significantly increases the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases, representing a growing public health concern in Bangladesh. Objective:  To evaluate the association between anthropometric, biochemical, and cardiovascular biomarkers and the presence of Metabolic Syndrome among middle-aged adults. Methods:  This hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Biochemistry, Ahad General Hospital, Savar, Dhaka, from July 2023 to June 2024, enrolling 595 participants aged 35–60 years. Anthropometric parameters (waist circumference, BMI), biochemical markers (random blood sugar, lipid profile), and blood pressure were measured using standardized protocols. Metabolic Syndrome was defined according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0, applying chi-square tests, t-tests, Pearson’s correlation, and multivariate logistic regression. Results:  The overall prevalence of MS was 23.7%. Prevalence increased with age and was significantly higher in females (29.6%) than in males (17.6%) (p < 0.001). Participants with MS showed significantly higher waist circumference (101.9 ± 12.7 cm vs. 85.8 ± 11.6 cm), BMI (29.5 ± 4.6 vs. 24.2 ± 4.5 kg/m²), triglycerides (3.33 ± 1.87 vs. 1.51 ± 0.96 mmol/L), and systolic blood pressure (129.9 ± 16.5 vs. 115.8 ± 12.8 mmHg), with lower HDL cholesterol (1.02 ± 0.29 vs. 1.38 ± 0.45 mmol/L) (all p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression identified waist circumference (OR = 1.10, p < 0.001), triglycerides (OR = 2.85, p < 0.001), low HDL (OR = 0.16, p < 0.001), and systolic blood pressure (OR = 1.04, p < 0.001) as independent predictors of MS Conclusion : Metabolic Syndrome was common among middle-aged adults, especially females. Central obesity, high triglycerides, low HDL, and elevated systolic pressure were key predictors. Routine screening of these markers can aid early detection and prevention of cardiometabolic risks.

Abstract Background: Vaccination stimulates the body’s immune system to provide protection against infectious diseases. It is one of the most cost-effective health interventions, preventing millions of deaths annually. Despite its benefits, immunization programs face challenges such as negative public perception and poor planning, particularly in low-resource settings. Objective:  To determine the proportion of vaccination uptake and identify factors influencing vaccination, including access, awareness, and cultural practices, among caregivers in Baidoa district, Somalia. Methods:  A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted over five months (September 2022 to January 2023) among 52 caregivers of children under five years in Baidoa district. Four villages—Berdale, Horsed, Isha, and Howl Wadag—were selected using simple random sampling, and eligible households were chosen via systematic random sampling. Structured questionnaires were administered to assess vaccination uptake and influencing factors. Data were analyzed using SPSS, with descriptive statistics.       Results:  Full vaccination coverage was less than 4.4%, partial coverage was 69.7%, and 25.9% of children had not received any vaccines. Health facility factors significantly influencing uptake included healthcare provider friendliness (Crude OR = 0.27, 95% CI = 0.151–0.499, P < 0.001) and vaccine availability (Crude OR = 0.482, 95% CI = 0.323–0.720, P < 0.001). Cultural and religious factors, such as perceptions of vaccine safety (Crude OR = 0.285, 95% CI = 0.195–0.417, P < 0.0001) and religious influence (Crude OR = 0.671, 95% CI = 0.474–0.951, P = 0.025), also significantly affected vaccination uptake. Conclusion:  Vaccination coverage in Baidoa remains critically low. Strategies to improve uptake should include ensuring accessible quality health services, employing professional healthcare providers, utilizing mobile clinics, and engaging religious leaders in vaccination campaigns to achieve national coverage targets and support Sustainable Development Goal 3.