Background: Zinc deficiency is a major global health issue and appears to be responsible for risk of diarrhea and death, particularly in children under 5 years. This review therefore aimed to summarize the existing literature related to zinc supplementation and fortification for the prevention of diarrhea. Methods: In this literature review, we discussed the zinc-related biochemistry and pathophysiology of diarrhea and role of zinc in reducing the risk of diarrhea in children. Moreover, this literature review particularly analyzed studies published between 2014 and 2025, including systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and randomized controlled trials focusing on zinc fortification and supplementation for the prevention of childhood diarrhea. The studies covered a range of zinc dosing regimens (5–20 mg daily), preventive and therapeutic approaches, and combined interventions in children. Main outcomes such as diarrhea duration, severity, recurrence, growth, and side effects were assessed across diverse low- and middle-income populations. Results: Routine zinc supplementation helps to reduce all-cause diarrhea and respiratory infections. Zinc supplementation consistently reduced both the duration and severity of diarrhea in children. Also, diarrhea episodes and frequency were reduced in children taking zinc supplementation. Lower doses (5–10 mg) were mostly recommended to reduce vomiting. Combined zinc and vitamin A supplementation further improved outcomes, while long-term low-dose zinc supplementation prevented diarrhea and infections. Conclusion: This review confirms that zinc supplementation and fortification are effective, affordable strategies for reducing childhood diarrhea. Supplementation during diarrheal episodes reliably shortens duration and severity, with long-term benefits lasting for months. Continued research and integrated approaches for dosing and delivery are needed for both low- and middle-income countries.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine hesitancy is a pronounced issue in low- and middle-income countries, including South Asia. The current systematic review focuses on examining vaccine hesitancy determinants, among South Asian countries. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across 2 data bases; PubMed and Scopus, using appropriate search strings, from the years 2018–2025. Articles were screened on the basis of a predefined inclusion criteria. After assessing for these criteria, a total of 29 articles were eligible for inclusion. The data extraction was carried out by 2 independent reviewers, who assessed the study for relevance, scientific rigor, and potential biases, while a third reviewer resolved discrepancies. Findings reported low HPV vaccine uptake across different South Asian countries. It was associated with lack of awareness regarding cervical cancer, HPV, and HPV vaccine, socio- cultural taboos, and religious beliefs, fear of ill effects, and inadequate healthcare guidance and recommendations. Limited access, high vaccination costs, and lack of integration of HPV vaccination within the national immunization programs, further contributed to decreased vaccine acceptance. A multi-pronged strategy, focusing on promoting community level awareness, health professional HPV vaccine training, culturally relevant health education, and policy support, is required to increase HPV vaccine uptake.

Breast cancer is a leading public health concern among low- and middle-income countries, primarily due to inadequate knowledge and lack of early detection practices. This study aimed to assess knowledge about the signs and symptoms, risk factors, and screening procedures for breast cancer, and barriers and perceptions of screening, among female university students of Pakistan to explore the relationship between socio-demographic variables and levels of knowledge about breast cancer. A total of 413 participants took part in a cross-sectional survey and completed a self-administrative online questionnaire. The results reflected an overall poor knowledge among female students, with only 3.9% demonstrating adequate knowledge about risk factors and 7.7% correctly recognizing 80% or more relevant signs and symptoms. Embarrassment (58.8%) and lack of confidence in communicating symptoms with healthcare providers (50.6%) were the most commonly reported barriers for breast cancer screening. Young age and income status below PKR 50,000 per month (OR = 3.47, 95%CI: 1.20–10.07 rel. to highest income) were significantly associated with poor breast cancer knowledge. In conclusion, this study reports sub-optimal breast cancer awareness levels in the target population, indicating the need for awareness programs and policy-driven interventions to reduce barriers, improve knowledge, and improve adherence to screening recommendations.

Malnutrition is highly prevalent in patients undergoing gastrointestinal (GI) surgeries, and is associated with adverse health outcomes. Both pre- and post-operative nutritional status assessment of these patients may help timely diagnose and manage health complications. The current study aimed to assess the nutritional status of GI surgery patients both before and after surgery and then determined associations between both values. The study was a prospective observational cohort one that utilized convenience sampling to collect data from 75 GI surgery patients admitted in a local tertiary care settings. Data was collected on socio-demographics, anthropometric and biochemical parameters, as well as clinical signs and symptoms. Paired t-test was used to assess associations after data was analyzed on SPSS version 23. Approximately, 52% of the study sample comprised males and 32.2% patients had undergone cholelithiasis surgery. White blood cells (WBCs) (p = 0.000) and lymphocyte count (p = 0.015) were both statistically significant for pre- and post-operative associations. However, Body Mass Index (BMI), hemoglobin, hematocrit, and creatinine levels were not found to be statistically significant. Malnutrition is common among those with GI issues and surgeries. Nutrition assessment prior to surgery and timely nutrition interventions can help prevent and manage complications arising from poor nutritional status in these patients.