IIUM Medical Journal Malaysia
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm
<p>IIUM Medical Journal Malaysia (IMJM) formerly known as the International Medical Journal Malaysia (IMJM) is the official journal of the Kulliyyah (Faculty) of Medicine, International Islamic University Malaysia. It serves primarily as a forum for education and intellectual discourse for health professionals namely in clinical medicine but covers diverse issues relating to medical ethics, professionalism as well as medical developments and research in basic medical sciences. It also serves the unique purpose of highlighting issues and research pertaining to the Muslim world. Contributions to the IMJM reflect its international and multidisciplinary readership and include current thinking across a range of specialties, ethnicities and societies. IMJM is published quarterly, the dates of publication being the 1st day of the months of January, April, July and October.</p>IIUM Pressen-USIIUM Medical Journal Malaysia1823-4631<p>All material submitted for publication is assumed to be submitted exclusively to the IIUM Medical Journal Malaysia (IMJM) unless the contrary is stated. Manuscript decisions are based on a double-blinded peer review process. The Editor retains the right to determine the style and if necessary, edit and shorten any material accepted for publication.</p> <p>IMJM retain copyright to all the articles published in the journal. All final ‘proof’ submissions must be accompanied by a completed Copyright Assignment Form, duly signed by all authors. The author(s) or copyright owner(s) irrevocably grant(s) to any third party, in advance and in perpetuity, the right to use, reproduce or disseminate the research article in its entirety or in part, in any format or medium, provided that no substantive errors are introduced in the process, proper attribution of authorship and correct citation details are given, and that the bibliographic details are not changed. If the article is reproduced or disseminated in part, this must be clearly and unequivocally indicated.</p>Halimatussaadia Mother’s Milk Centre (HMMC): A Unique Shariah Compliant Human Milk Bank with Single Donor Pools, Satiety Based Distribution
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/3018
Prof. Dato’ Dr. Hamizah Ismail
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2025-07-012025-07-012403Effect of Quercetin and Glibenclamide Combination on PPAR-γ and Oxidative Stress: A Study on Cardiac Tissue of Diabetic Animal Model
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2723
<p><strong>INTRODUCTION:</strong> Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) contributes to cardiac failure through oxidative stress and reduced expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ). PPAR-γ plays a protective role by enhancing metabolism and mitigating oxidative stress. Quercetin has been shown to activate PPAR-γ and reduce lipid peroxidation. This study aims to evaluate the effects of combining quercetin with glibenclamide on cardiac PPAR-γ expression and lipid peroxidation in diabetic rats. <strong>MATERIALS AND METHODS:</strong> This experimental study involved 25 paraffin-embedded cardiac tissue samples from three-month-old Wistar rats, divided into five groups: healthy control, diabetic control (placebo), diabetic with glibenclamide (5 mg/kg/day), diabetic with quercetin (20 mg/kg/day), and diabetic with both glibenclamide and quercetin. Treatments were administered orally for 4 weeks. Cardiac PPAR-γ expression was assessed via immunohistochemistry, and malondialdehyde levels were measured using the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assay. <strong>RESULTS:</strong> Both quercetin and glibenclamide monotherapies significantly increased cardiac PPAR-γ expression. However, the combination therapy further enhanced PPAR-γ expression compared to either treatment alone (p<0.05). Malondialdehyde levels significantly decreased in all treated diabetic groups compared to the diabetic control, with no significant difference between monotherapy and combination groups. <strong>CONCLUSION:</strong> The combination of quercetin and glibenclamide enhances cardiac PPAR-γ expression more effectively than monotherapy, while reducing lipid peroxidation to a similar extent. This suggests potential synergistic benefits in managing oxidative stress-related cardiac complications in type 2 DM.</p>Asri HendrawatiEvy Sulistyoningrum
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2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2723Consensus Development of Resilience Components in Malaysian Breast Cancer Survivors: Findings from a Delphi Study
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2563
<p><strong>INTRODUCTION: </strong>Resilience significantly influences the mental health and treatment outcomes of cancer patients. This study aimed to establish expert consensus on key resilience components specific to Malaysian breast cancer survivors using a Delphi method. <strong>MATERIALS AND METHODS: </strong>A Three-Round Modified Delphi Technique was conducted on 10 expert panelists involving psychiatrists, psychologists, and breast cancer survivors. In Round 1, open-ended questions identified initial resilience components. In Rounds 2 and 3, panelists rated the importance of each component using a 5-point Likert scale. Consensus was defined as a mean score ≥4.0 with at least 75% agreement. Both median scores and percentage agreement were used to ensure reliability. <strong>RESULTS: </strong>The final framework consisted of 10 main components and 25 subcomponents, with two subcomponents excluded due to low consensus. Main components included emotional, cognitive, knowledge, physical, religious and spirituality, social support, family support, mental health, financial, and other relevant domains. Endorsed subcomponents included emotional flexibility, self-regulation, optimism, gratitude, knowledge of cancer, physical health, religious coping, spiritual practices, social and family support, mental health self-efficacy, and financial status. <strong>CONCLUSION</strong>: This expert-endorsed framework offers a culturally relevant foundation for developing resilience-building strategies among Malaysian breast cancer survivors. These identified components may guide future psychosocial interventions aimed at improving emotional well-being and treatment outcomes among breast cancer survivors</p>Nor Syuhada Farhanis HashimTengku Ahmad Damitri Al-Astani Tengku DinMohd Zarawi Mat NorMuhamad Saiful Bahri YusoffNajib Majdi Yaacob
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2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2563Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice towards Disaster Preparedness among Medical Personnel in Emergency Departments in Malaysia
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2428
<p><strong>INTRODUCTION: </strong>Disasters are incidents that can cause damage to properties and loss of lives. Disaster preparedness is a set of measures undertaken in planning for disaster situations. The objectives of this study were to determine the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) towards disaster preparedness and its associated factors among emergency department (ED) medical personnel. <strong>MATERIALS AND METHODS:</strong> This study was conducted in 12 hospitals in Malaysia. A validated questionnaire was used and 427 participants were involved. This study was carried out from March 2019 to March 2020. <strong>RESULTS: </strong>This study showed that ED medical personnel in Malaysia had adequate KAP towards disaster preparedness, which scored 91.6%, 78.2%, and 61.1%, respectively. An increased level of knowledge was related to experience and training in disaster response, whereby the increased level of practice was associated with duration of working experience. However, there was no association between the level of attitude and disaster preparedness. <strong>CONCLUSION: </strong>Continuous education and training on disaster preparedness for ED medical personnel are necessary to prepare staff in the event of disaster and to improve the healthcare system</p>Dora Natasha AmranAfifah Sjamun SjahidAbu Yazid Md NohMimi Azliha Abu BakarNormalinda YaacobAhmad Filza Ismail
Copyright (c) 2025 IIUM Medical Journal Malaysia
2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2428Improving Exercise Interventions for Older Adults with Dementia: A Qualitative Exploration of Physiotherapists' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2799
<p><strong>INTRODUCTION: </strong>Dementia creates significant challenges to physical activity management in older adults due to progressive cognitive and behavioural impairments. Physiotherapists serve a critical role in designing exercise interventions. However, the lack of standardized dementia-specific training compromises the efficacy of care. Despite evidence on the benefits of physical activity for older adults with dementia (OAwD), the physiotherapists’ knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) to meet these specific needs remains unclear. This qualitative study explores the physiotherapists’ KAP in exercise prescription, aiming to identify unmet training needs and inform targeted strategies to optimize therapeutic outcomes for OAwD. <strong>MATERIALS AND METHODS:</strong> A qualitative approach was used, employing semi structured interviews with 9 physiotherapists experienced in dementia care. Participants were selected through purposive sampling to capture diverse expertise. Data was analysed through thematic analysis uncovering patterns and insights related to KAP and its impact on care delivery. <strong>RESULTS:</strong> Four central themes emerged: Knowledge (theme 1), attitudes (theme 2), and practices (theme 3 and theme 4). Firstly, physiotherapists emphasized the importance of comprehensive assessments, utilizing tools such as the ‘Timed Up and Go test’ and ‘Montreal Cognitive Assessment’. Secondly, patience and adaptability were highlighted as essential due to cognitive decline associated with dementia. Thirdly, caregiver involvement and education were essential. Fourthly, goal oriented and functional exercises were prioritized. <strong>CONCLUSION:</strong> Physiotherapists showed a strong understanding of dementia care but highlighted the need for enhanced, specialized training. Addressing these gaps could improve exercise interventions and foster better health outcomes for OAwD.</p> <p> </p>Normala MesbahNurul Izzati MunemMohd Azzuan AhmadNor Azura Azmi
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2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2799Gender and Ethnic Differences in Stress and Lifestyle Factors Post COVID-19 Lockdown Among Medical Students
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2789
<p><strong>Introduction</strong>: Lifestyle choices can significantly impact students' stress levels, especially during the COVID-19 lockdowns. It is not known whether the management of lifestyle behaviours and stress factors post COVID-19 lockdown differs between genders and ethnicities in Malaysia. <strong>Materials and Methods</strong><strong>:</strong> A cross-sectional study was conducted among 345 medical students in a private Malaysian University willing to participate. The demographic details were collected after obtaining their consent for participation. Lifestyle and stress questionnaires were administered online, and multiple logistic regression analyses were used to analyse their lifestyle and stress factors post COVID-19 lockdown. <strong>Results:</strong> Male students tend to have a strict exercise regime (<em>p</em><0.0001) and reported low alcohol consumption (<em>p</em>=0.002). Female students did less exercise (p=0.007) and experienced an increase in muscular aches (<em>p</em><0.0001). They also tend to bring work home at night (<em>p</em>=0.032), have insufficient hours to do all duties (<em>p</em>=0.038), and have altered appetites (<em>p</em>=0.001). Both Indian (<em>p</em>=0.011) and Chinese (<em>p</em>=0.006) participants can still cope with the present working environment. Indian respondents tend to get sick more frequently than other ethnicities (<em>p</em>=0.043). Malay (<em>p</em>=0.007) and Chinese (<em>p</em>=0.024) respondents are less likely to experience muscular pain. Chinese students are less likely than other ethnicities to have sick parents (<em>p</em>=0.027), while Malay students have family members with illnesses like high blood pressure and diabetes (<em>p</em>=0.019). <strong>Conclusion: </strong>Developing targeted student support learning such as stress management workshops, time management training, and comprehensive wellness programs tailored to different genders and ethnicities could reduce stress and promote a healthier lifestyle.</p>Sherly Deborah GeorgeMathieamuthan N ThamilvananKevin Low Boon Nil SinghKeshvinder Singh Jaspal SinghFaizatul Isyraqiah
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2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2789Optimizing Antibiotic Dosing: A Prospective Observational Study of Piperacillin/Tazobactam Plasma Levels in Critically Ill Patients with Augmented Renal Clearance
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2607
<p><strong>INTRODUCTION:</strong> Managing antibiotic dosing in critically ill patients presents challenges especially in achieving optimal therapeutic levels. Thus, we conducted a study to evaluate how augmented renal clearance (ARC) affects the attainment of pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) targets in patients receiving piperacillin/ tazobactam (PTZ) via continuous infusion. <strong>MATERIALS AND METHODS:</strong> A single centred, prospective, observational study was conducted in intensive care unit at Sultan Ahmad Shah Medical Center @IIUM, Kuantan Pahang. A total of 43 adult patients with normal renal function treated as sepsis with standard PTZ doses via continuous infusion were included for the study and their blood were sampled for assessment of drug concentrations and PK/PD target attainment. <strong>RESULTS:</strong> There was substantial PK variability with 60% diagnosed with ARC and 37.2% of experienced piperacillin underexposure in which patients with ARC had significantly higher rates of underexposure at both distribution and steady-state phases. <strong>CONCLUSION</strong>: The high prevalence of ARC in these patients impacted the therapeutic PTZ levels and as many patients did not reach desired drug concentrations, there is increased risk of treatment failure without dose adjustment. These findings underscore the importance of individualized dosing strategies, particularly in critically ill patients with ARC, to optimize antibiotic therapy efficacy and mitigate the risk of inadequate treatment. </p>Fahima NeginShahir Asraf Abdul RahimMohd Basri Mat NorFatimah MohamadNur Sazwi NordinMohd Hafiz Abdul-Aziz
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2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2607Diagnostic Accuracy of Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology of Thyroid in Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah, Malaysia
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2573
<p><strong>INTRODUCTION</strong>: Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) is widely used as an initial screening method in the preoperative examination of thyroid lesions. However, diagnostic cytology interpretation remains inconsistent among reporting pathologists worldwide. This study aimed to determine the diagnostic accuracy of FNAC of thyroid lesions at Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah (HSNZ), a tertiary hospital in Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia. <strong>MATERIAL AND METHODS:</strong> We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study at the Department of Pathology, HSNZ, from January 2017 to December 2019. Data of patients were collected from the Laboratory Information System (LIS) and Hospital Information System (HIS). The study included patients with thyroid lesions who underwent both FNAC and subsequent histopathological examination (HPE). <strong>RESULT</strong>: A total of 389 cases of thyroid lesions underwent FNAC, with 162 cases proceeding to surgical resection. The median age of the patients was 43.3 years, with a male to female ratio of 1:5.3. FNAC diagnoses were categorized as follows: 85 cases (52.5%) were benign, 23 (14.2%) as atypia or follicular lesion of undetermined significance, 9 (5.6%) as follicular neoplasm, 21 (13%) as suspicious for malignancy, and 12 (7.4%) as malignant and unsatisfactory. The diagnostic accuracy of FNAC was 85.8%, with sensitivity of 66.7% and specificity of 96.2%. The positive predictive value was 90.5%, and the negative predictive value was 84.2%. <strong>CONCLUSION</strong>: FNAC has proven to be an accurate diagnostic method for screening thyroid lesions. However, continuous improvement in sampling and preparation techniques and cytopathologist training is necessary to enhance its reliability further.</p>Nurul Nadhihah AdamAlaa SiddigAhmad Fazlin NasaruddinNor Hayati IsmailAnani Aila Mat ZinWan Faiziah Wan Abdul Rahman
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2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2573Impact of Spiritual Well-Being on The Quality of Life Among the Muslim Elderly
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2511
<p><strong>INTRODUCTION: </strong>Increasing elderly population will have an impact on increasing demand for long-term health care. As a person gets older, there is increase in their health problems. The challenges facing the health authorities is to increase life expectancy of people through improving the quality of life of the elderly. Spirituality has become an important aspect of improvement of health related quality of life. This study aims to identify the relationship between spiritual well-being and the quality of life of the elderly living in nursing homes.<strong> MATERIALS AND METHODS</strong>: This study is a crossectional study conducted in Central Java Province, Indonesia. The sample size was 131 Muslim elderly people living in nursing homes. Study respondents were recruited randomly with criteria of being able to communicate and having good cognitive function. Spiritual well-being was measured using the Spiritual Assessment Scale (SAS) and the Quality of life (QOL) was measured using the WHOQOL-OLD.<strong> RESULT</strong>: The spiritual well-being of the respondents was mostly low. The QOL of the respondents was mostly low. The results of the Pearson correlation test showed that all three aspects of spirituality had a relationship with all the three domains of QOL. Religious practices have a very strong relationship with psychological functioning (p=0.000, r=0.793). <strong>Conclusion: </strong>The higher the spiritual well-being, the higher the QOL of the elderly living in nursing homes. The results of this research can be used by nurses in nursing homes to determine interventions to improve spiritual well-being in the elderly.</p>Nopi KhasanahIskim LuthfaAh YusufRizki Fitryasarisuyanto suyanto
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2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2511Effect of Tualang Honey Supplementation in Weight Reduction and Dyslipidaemia in High Cholesterol Diet- induced Obese Rats
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2833
<p><strong>INTRODUCTION: </strong>Obesity is a key risk factor for many chronic diseases. Malaysia records the highest prevalence of obesity in Southeast Asia. Tualang honey has been proven to treat many chronic diseases but its effect on weight reduction has yet to be well-studied. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Tualang honey (TH) supplementation on body weight and lipid profile in a 12% high cholesterol diet (HCD) induced obesity rat model. <strong>MATERIALS AND METHODS:</strong> Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to five groups (n=8): Group 1 (normal diet), Group 2 (normal diet + TH 3.0 g/kg), Group 3 (12% HCD), Group 4 (12% HCD + TH 3.0 g/kg), and Group 5 (12% HCD + Orlistat 10 mg/kg). Diets were administered for 12 weeks, followed by treatments for six weeks. Body weight was measured weekly, and blood was collected for lipid analysis at the end of the study. <strong>RESULTS:</strong> We demonstrated a significantly lower final body weight of rats in Group 2 (328.25 ± 25.49 g) compared to Group 1 (409.13 ± 16.33g) (p<0.001) and in Group 4 as compared to Group 3 (343.88 ± 44.24 g vs 471.00 ± 19.55g, p<0.001). The administration of TH also significantly reduces the cholesterol (Med=1.8 mmol/L, IQR=0.7 vs Med=3.2 mmol/L, IQR=0.8, p<0.05) and triglyceride level (Med=0.9 mmol/L, IQR=0.3 vs Med=1.5 mmol/L, IQR=1.0, p=0.001) in Group 4 compared to Group 3. <strong>CONCLUSION: </strong>Tualang honey supplementation has been shown to reduce body weight and improve lipid profiles in 12% HCD-induced obese rats.</p>Nabihah Abu HanifahSirajudeen Kuttulebbai Naina Mohamed SalamNor Zamzila AbdullahZunariah BuyongKhairunisa Ahmad AffandiRoslina Abdul RahimHajar Fauzan Ahmad
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2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2833The Relationship between Psychological Well-Being and Self-Directed Learning in Medical Students
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2364
<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Student well-being plays a crucial role in influencing self-directed learning (SDL), particularly among medical students who face intense academic demands. This study aimed to assess the levels of psychological well-being and SDL among undergraduate students at the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Islam Indonesia (FM UII), and to examine the relationship between the two variables. <strong>Materials and Methods: </strong>An observational, cross-sectional study design was employed, involving 317 undergraduate medical students from FM UII. Data collection utilized the Indonesian versions of Ryff’s Psychological Well-Being Scale and the Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale. Univariate and bivariate analyses were conducted to evaluate the data and determine correlations. <strong>Results: </strong>Findings revealed that most students demonstrated moderate to high psychological well-being. SDL levels were predominantly high, with 74.8% of respondents reporting a high level of SDL, 25.2% reporting a moderate level, and none reporting low SDL. A statistically significant positive correlation was identified between psychological well-being and SDL (p=0.000; r=0.352), indicating a moderate relationship. <strong>Conclusion: </strong>The results suggest that most medical students at FM UII possess good psychological well-being and strong SDL readiness. A positive correlation between psychological well-being and SDL indicates that students with higher well-being are more likely to be confident and proactive in managing their own learning. These findings highlight the importance of fostering a supportive academic environment that prioritizes student mental health to enhance SDL capabilities. Faculty and educators should therefore integrate strategies that promote psychological well-being to improve learning outcomes</p>Umatul KhoiriyahAnifa Izdihara
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2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2364Antiaging activities of Muntingia calabura Leaf Aqueous Extracts (MCE) on Testicular Histology, Spermatogenic Proliferation, and Testosterone Level of D-Galactose-Induced Mice Model
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2795
<p><strong>INTRODUCTION:</strong> Male aging may disrupt spermatogenesis and induce intratesticular redox imbalance, leading to testicular damage. <em>Muntingia calabura</em> leaf extracts (MCE) have potent antioxidant activity, but <em>in vivo</em> reports in the male reproductive system aging are limited. This research aimed to determine the effects of MCE on testicular histology and testosterone levels in the D-galactose-induced aging mice model. <strong>MATERIALS AND METHODS: </strong>Plasma and testicular tissue obtained from 20 male <em>Mus musculus</em> strain Balb/C which were divided into 5 groups: normal; aging; aging+ <em>Muntingia calabura</em> leaf aqueous extracts (MCE) 35 mg/kg; aging+MCE 70 mg/kg; and aging+vitamin C 28 mg/kg. Treatments were scheduled orally for 4 weeks; aging condition was induced using oral 500 mg/kg D-galactose for 6 weeks before treatments. Plasma testosterone was determined using ELISA, seminiferous tubules’ diameter, spermatogenesis score, and Leydig cell number were examined with routine staining, and the nuclear expression of Ki-67 was performed via immunohistochemistry. <strong>RESULTS: </strong>The MCE-treated aging group had higher seminiferous tubules’ diameter, spermatogenesis score, Leydig cells’ number, and percentage of cells expressing Ki-67 compared with the untreated group (p < 0.005), and the optimum dose was 70 mg/kg. However, testosterone levels of the MCE group did not significantly differ from those of others. <strong>CONCLUSION:</strong> Administration of MCE in D-galactose-induced aged mice improved seminiferous tubule diameter, spermatogenesis score, Leydig cells’ count, and spermatogenic cell proliferation, but not testosterone level.</p>evy sulistyoningrumAgeng BrahmadhiNabila Rachmi Nuzulia Badami
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2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2795Knowledge, Attitudes, and Implementation Challenges of Preventive Rehabilitation Programs among Malaysian Collegiate Football Players: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2751
<p> </p> <p><strong>INTRODUCTION:</strong> Football is a high-risk sport for lower limb injuries, prompting the use of Football Injury Prevention Programs (FIPP). Despite evidence of effectiveness, implementation remains inconsistent. This study aimed to (i) explore Malaysian collegiate football players’ knowledge, attitudes, and challenges regarding FIPP and (ii) examine the influence of demographic and institutional contexts, particularly between public and private institutions. <strong>MATERIALS AND METHODS:</strong> A cross-sectional survey using an online structured interview was conducted among Malaysian collegiate football players aged 18 and above who were actively participating at the college or university level. The survey comprised seven sections: demographics, football background, FIPP implementation, injury rates, knowledge of FIPP, attitudes, and barriers to implementation. Data were analysed using descriptive, cross-tabulations, and correlation statistics. <strong>RESULTS:</strong> Out of 103 responses, 80 met the inclusion criteria. The respondents were predominantly Malay (51.2%) and Chinese (36.3%), with a mean age of 23.4±4.55 years. Notably, 82.5% reported previous football-related injuries, while 81.3% utilized some form of injury prevention, primarily running (56.3%) and strength training (52.5%). Despite 67.5% acknowledging the benefits of FIPP, 46.3% perceived their knowledge as insufficient, and only 36.3% had received any formal training. Furthermore, a significant positive correlation was found between knowledge and attitudes toward FIPP (r = 0.438, <em>p</em> < 0.001). Key barriers included insufficient knowledge (41.3%) and limited access to qualified instructors (40.1%). <strong>CONCLUSION:</strong> Despite positive attitudes toward preventive rehabilitation, knowledge deficits and implementation barriers persist, underscoring the need for targeted education to improve FIPP adoption and reduce injury rates.</p>Wan Zhi WongYi Ki TeeMohd Azzuan AhmadMuhammad Noh Zulfikri Mohd JamaliNor Azura AzmiNormala Mesbah
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2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2751Aspergillus ochraceus: A Rare Cause of Paranasal Fungal Ball
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2662
<p>Infection of paranasal sinuses is not uncommon. Fungal ball of the paranasal sinuses is a non-invasive form of paranasal sinus infection that has been documented to be more frequently caused by <em>Aspergillus fumigatus</em> than by other <em>Aspergillus</em> species and typically affects immunocompetent individuals more than those who are immunocompromised. Here, we report the first case of <em>Aspergillus ochraceus</em> (<em>A. ochraceus</em>) in an immunocompromised patient with post-trauma maxillary implant who presented with transient ischemic attack and incidental findings of fungal ball within the right maxillary sinus from the Computed Tomography (CT) scan. <em>A. ochraceus</em> is a species under the <em>Aspergillus</em> section <em>Circumdati,</em> a widely distributed fungus which is pathogenic to humans that can lead to various clinical implications. <em>A. ochraceus</em> was detected from paranasal tissue sent for culture. The laboratory culture findings were further supported by histopathological evidence of fungal hyphae and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) identification.</p>Siti Norbahiyah AwadNormi Ngah MohamedNurul Azira Mohd ShahRukumani Devi VelayuthanMuhamad Ariff Sobani
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2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2662A Rare Complex Pleural Effusion in Post Trauma Patient: A Case Report
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2676
<p>Pleural effusion is common in routine medical practice and can be due to many different underlying diseases including infections, malignancy, connective tissue disease, heart failure and liver failure. However, a complex pleural effusion such as post-traumatic pleural effusion (PTPE) is an uncommon clinical entity. A precise diagnosis of PTPE can be facilitated by the efficient use of computed tomography (CT) and ultrasound. The PTPE may be successfully managed by pigtail drainage and intrapleural fibrinolysis (IPF), highlighting the significance of prompt intervention in attaining favorable results for patients with PTPE.</p> <p> </p>Afiqah AhmadSalziyan BadrinLili Husniati Yaacob
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2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2676Atypical Cystic Carcinoma: A rare malignancy of the lower eyelid
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2654
<p>Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a rare malignancy of the secretory glands, most commonly originating in the lacrimal gland but rarely involving the eyelids. ACC is known for its aggressive behaviour, high recurrence rate, and potential for metastasis, leading to a poor prognosis. Histopathological examination is essential for the diagnosis, and early detection with complete excision offers the best chance for a favourable outcome. This case highlights the importance of comprehensive management to reduce the recurrence risk and improving patient survival. The authors present a 56-year-old man with ACC of the left lower eyelid, who underwent surgical excision followed by reconstruction, ensuring tumour-free margins.</p>Raudatul JanahShanti Fitrianti Boesoirie
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2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2654High-Intensity Interval Training as A Game-Changer in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Management: A Narrative Review
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2644
<p>Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Diabetes mellitus is characterized by high blood sugar or glucose levels due to the body's inability to produce or use insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (Type 2 DM) is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for up to 90% of all cases, and is often linked to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and obesity. Physical activity is a highly effective intervention for managing and preventing Type 2 DM. Exercise helps to lower blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and promote weight loss. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a specific type of exercise that involves short bursts of intense activity followed by periods of rest or low-intensity exercise. HIIT has been found to be particularly effective for patients with Type 2 DM, as it can improve glucose control and cardiovascular health in a relatively short amount of time. This review delves into the role of HIIT in managing Type 2 DM, highlighting its ability to increase insulin sensitivity through processes such as GLUT 4 translocation, mitochondrial activity, and vasodilator function, as well as improving glycaemic control by increasing aerobic capacity and the activity of mitochondria. By synthesizing recent research, we aimed to provide insights in a narrative review of the benefits and mechanisms of HIIT for managing Type 2 DM.</p>Widia SariAlief DhuhaMutia Lailani
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2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2644Barriers to Physical Activity Among Stroke Survivors: A Scoping Review
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2592
<p>Barriers to physical activity (PA) experienced by stroke survivors may contribute to low PA participation. This review aims to update the existing review report on barriers to PA among stroke survivors. We conducted electronic searches across three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) between January 2011 and January 2023. Keywords related to barriers, physical activity, and stroke survivors were used to identify relevant studies. Eighteen studies were included. The identified barriers to PA among stroke survivors were physical impairments, fatigue, and issues with training venues and facilities. These barriers were categorized using the Theory Domain Framework, revealing nine domains, with environmental context and resources being the most common. Clinicians can develop individualized programs to address barriers, improving adherence to PA among stroke survivors and contributing to a better quality of life while reducing the risk of stroke recurrence.</p>Shafiqah KhairnaimHaidzir ManafNor Azlin Mohd NordinAlia Alghwiri
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2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2592Injury Prevention Program among Athletes in Malaysia: A Systematic Review
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2739
<p>Sport is responsible for the significant occurrence of acute and overuse injuries among athletes. The injuries during sport can result in long-term negative consequences that reduces the performance of sports. The burden of sport-related injuries is substantial, and there is a lack of studies assessing the effectiveness of injury prevention strategies. To date, cumulative information regarding injury prevention strategies is limited in Malaysia. This study aims to identify the characteristics of injury prevention programs among athletes in Malaysia. This research was systematically conducted utilising the electronic databases of Web of Science (WoS), Scopus, ClinicalKey, Cochrane Library, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Google Scholar. Two reviewers, MIS and HAY, independently selected articles based on the established inclusion criteria from 1st January 2015 to 31st December 2024. The study followed PRISMA guidelines and was registered with PROSPERO under registration number CRD42024513383.Nine eligible papers were included in the study and scored at least five points on the 11-point checklist of the CASP appraisal tool. Injury prevention programs, including neuromuscular training and sport-specific interventions, enhance strength, flexibility, and balance, reducing injury risk among athletes. It is recommended that injury prevention programs be adopted in every sport, especially during warm-up periods of training sessions. Future research should focus on individualised programs and technology for real-time feedback injury prevention strategies.</p>Muhammad Iqbal ShaharudinHazwani Ahmad Yusof
Copyright (c) 2025 IIUM Medical Journal Malaysia
2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2739Bioethics and Biobanking in Biomedical Research in Malaysia
https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/2903
<p>-</p>Suzanah Abdul Rahman
Copyright (c) 2025 IIUM Medical Journal Malaysia
2025-07-012025-07-01240310.31436/imjm.v24i03.2903