Medical Profession Journal of Lampung

The Impact of Stress on Health

Adzrok Qonita — 2025-02-21

Stress is a bodily response to a stressor, which refers to any condition perceived as threatening or causing pressure. Stress can have both positive (eustress) and negative (distress) effects. Prolonged distress can affect various body systems through the activation of the Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis and the Sympathetic-Adreno-Medullary (SAM) axis. Activation of these axes triggers the release of cortisol, epinephrine, and norepinephrine, leading to physiological and behavioral changes. Stress impacts multiple organ systems, including the cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary, urinary, reproductive, musculoskeletal, integumentary, sensory, and immune systems. It also affects sleep quality and mental health. In the cardiovascular system, stress can cause hypertension, atherosclerosis, and an increased risk of heart disease. In the respiratory system, stress worsens asthma and increases the risk of airway infections. In the gastrointestinal system, stress triggers digestive disorders, such as gastritis and peptic ulcers, due to increased stomach acid production and inflammatory mediators. Stress affects the hepatobiliary system by impairing liver function through increased inflammation. In the urinary system, stress can cause dysfunctions such as enuresis and increased urination frequency. In the reproductive system, stress can result in menstrual disorders in women and decreased testosterone levels in men. The musculoskeletal system can be affected by excessive muscle contractions, leading to pain and muscle fatigue. Stress impacts the integumentary system, triggering conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and alopecia areata. It can also cause sensory system disorders, affecting hearing, taste, and vision. In the immune system, stress suppresses immune responses, increasing susceptibility to infections and prolonging wound healing. Prolonged stress negatively impacts both physical and mental health, highlighting the importance of understanding the mechanisms through which stress affects the body to reduce the risk of serious health problems.

Mechanisms of Chronic Hyperglycaemia on Bone Mineral Density

Maliya Finda Dwiputri — 2025-02-21

Hyperglycaemia or high levels of glucose in the blood is the hallmark of diabetes mellitus. Diabetes mellitus type 2 (DMT2) significantly impacts bone health, leading to a condition known as diabetic bone disease, characterized by decreased bone mineral density and an increased risk of fractures. This condition arises from metabolic disturbances triggered by hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and inflammatory factors that compromise bone structure. Research indicates that over 35% of DMT2 patients experience reduced bone density, with approximately 20% meeting osteoporosis criteria. The pathophysiology involves several mechanisms, including the accumulation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), which hinder bone formation and increase resorption. Insulin deficiency further exacerbates this issue by impairing osteoblast function and reducing the synthesis of key bone matrix proteins like collagen and osteocalcin. Treatment options such as metformin have shown potential in improving bone health, while other medications like sulfonylureas and SGLT-2 inhibitors may have detrimental effects on bone density. Therefore, careful management of diabetes is essential to mitigate the risks of osteoporosis and fractures in patients with DMT2. Ongoing research is needed to deepen the understanding of diabetic bone disease and optimize treatment strategies to protect bone health in these patients.

Identification of Active Antibacterial Compounds in Garlic Extract to Inhibit the Growth of Cutibacterium acnesthe Cause of Acne Vulgaris

Shervia Dwi Aprianti — 2025-02-21

Introduction: The cases of antibiotic resistance in the treatment of acne vulgaris have been steadily increasing. A study conducted by the Dermatology Clinic of Hanyang University Hospital, South Korea, showed an increase in antibiotic resistance cases in the management of acne vulgaris, with resistance rates of 30% for clindamycin and 26.7% for erythromycin. One adjunctive therapy believed to be a breakthrough in anticipating the increase in antibiotic resistance causing acne vulgaris is the use of garlic extract. This study aims to conduct antibacterial phytochemical screening of garlic extract in inhibiting the growth of Cutibacterium acnes.

Methods: The antibacterial active compounds in garlic plants were identified through phytochemical screening. Meanwhile, the antibacterial test was conducted using the well diffusion method with garlic extract concentrations of 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%. Clindamycin was used as the positive control.

Results: The phytochemical screening results of garlic extract in this study revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, phenols, and terpenoids. In the antibacterial test using the well diffusion method, the largest inhibition zone was observed with clindamycin treatment, while the smallest inhibition zone diameter was recorded with 25% garlic extract concentration.

Discussion: The active antibacterial compounds found in garlic extract, including flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, phenols, and terpenoids, have been proven to inhibit the growth of Cutibacterium acnes, as indicated by the formation of inhibition zone diameters in the antibacterial test.

Relationship between Urine Protein and Urine Specific Gravity in Diabetic Nephropathy Patients

Najwa Naraniya Putri — 2025-02-21

Diabetic nephropathy is one of the main causes of end-stage renal failure or End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) in patients with type 2 diabetes. Diabetic nephropathy is defined as the presence of albumin or protein of more than 30 mg/day in urine on two examinations within a period of 3-6 months, as well as a decrease in the glomerular filtration rate. Urinalysis examination using the dipstick method is carried out for certain indications or suspicions of complications of diabetes mellitus, one of which is diabetic nephropathy. Dipstick examination can detect protein, pH, glucose, specific gravity, ketones, urobilinogen, nitrite, blood, bilirubin, and leukocyte esterase. The specific gravity of urine depends on the concentration of glucose, urea, and protein particles in the solution. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between protein in urine and specific gravity in patients with diabetic nephropathy. Observational analytical research was conducted with a cross-sectional approach. This study was conducted at the Medical Records Installation of Dr. H. Abdul Moeloek Hospital. The population of this study was diabetic nephropathy patients treated at Dr. H. Abdul Moeloek Hospital in January-December 2023. The sampling technique used the total sampling technique so that 49 samples were obtained that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The data obtained were analyzed using the Spearman correlation test. The results showed a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.589 and a significance p-value = 0.000. There is a relationship between urine protein and urine specific gravity in diabetic nephropathy patients.

Exploration of Immunotherapy and Gene Therapy in Brain Tumor Treatment: A Literature Review

Hana Muthi'a Putri — 2025-02-21

Brain tumors are a significant neurological disorder with a high mortality rate, especially in cases of glioblastoma, which is highly aggressive and difficult to treat. Conventional treatment methods, such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, are often not effective enough, particularly in advanced stages. This study aims to explore two innovative approaches, namely immunotherapy and gene therapy, as alternative treatments for brain tumors. Immunotherapy works by enhancing the immune system's ability to fight cancer cells through methods such as checkpoint inhibitors, cancer vaccines, and CAR-T therapy. However, the success of immunotherapy is often hindered by the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which limits the delivery of therapy to the brain. On the other hand, gene therapy offers a solution by modifying genetic material, either to repair damaged genes or to directly destroy cancer cells. Approaches such as the use of oncolytic viruses, CRISPR technology, and nanoparticles have shown promising results in preclinical research and early clinical trials, particularly for glioblastoma. The combination of immunotherapy and gene therapy opens new opportunities to enhance treatment effectiveness by strengthening the immune response and targeting tumors more specifically. However, challenges remain, including treatment resistance, side effects, and limitations in brain delivery methods. Further research is needed to ensure the safety, efficacy, and widespread application of this combination therapy. Immunotherapy and gene therapy have great potential as breakthroughs in the future treatment of brain tumors. Relevant literature, including articles and journals from both national and international sources, were gathered through online searches in various databases, such as Google Scholar, PubMed, and NCBI, and used to compile this article.

Factors Influencing Early Menarche in Adolescent Girls

Syifa Hafizha — 2025-02-21

Adolescence is a critical phase of rapid growth characterized by the maturation of reproductive organs, known as puberty. In females, puberty is marked by the onset of menstruation, with menarche being the first occurrence of menstruation, typically between the ages of 12 and 14 years. However, the average age of menarche in Indonesia has declined over the years, leading to an increase in early menarche cases. Early menarche occurs at an age of < 11 years (9-10 years) that is primarily driven by elevated estrogen levels in the female body. Factors influencing early menarche include genetics, nutritional status, lifestyle, dietary intake, physical activity, stress management, socioeconomic conditions, sexual behavior, and media exposure. This literature review aims to examine the correlation between these factors and the decreasing age of menarche among adolescent girls in Indonesia. Nutritional status and imbalanced dietary patterns are external factors strongly associated with early menarche. Genetic factors, particularly maternal menarche age, significantly influence the likelihood of early menarche in daughters. Low levels of physical activity contribute to increased ovarian activity and elevated estrogen levels, thereby raising the risk of early menarche. Furthermore, insufficient physical activity is directly linked to early menarche. External influences such as media exposure shape sexual behaviors, which may accelerate menarche onset. Poor stress management also disrupts estrogen regulation, further contributing to early menarche.

The Potentially of Water Apple Leaves (Syzygium aquem) as Phytopharmaceuticals: Literature Review

Arlin Febrianti — 2025-02-21

Traditional medicine widely utilizes plant extracts from various parts of plants due to their secondary metabolite content, which possesses therapeutic effects. One plant with high pharmacological potential is the water apple leaf (*Syzygium aqueum*), belonging to the Myrtaceae family and commonly found in tropical regions such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and India. Water apple leaves have been used as phytopharmaceuticals because they contain various bioactive compounds that can be extracted and utilized for treating different diseases. The active compounds commonly found in water apple leaves include alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, triterpenoids, and coumarins. Studies have shown that water apple leaf extracts exhibit various pharmacological activities, including antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic properties. Additionally, the bioactive compounds in water apple leaves have the potential to be further developed as natural therapeutic agents for treating degenerative diseases and infections. This pharmacological potential positions water apple leaves as a promising phytopharmaceutical candidate for development in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. However, further research is required to explore the mechanisms of action, efficacy, and potential toxicity of the active compounds in water apple leaves. A comprehensive study in this area will enable the optimization of water apple leaves as a safe and effective natural therapy for various diseases.

Intracerebral Hemorrhage Hemisfer Dextra: A Case Report

Fitriyani Fitriyani — 2025-02-21

Intracerebral hemorrhage is a brain injury due to acute extravasation of blood into the brain parenchyma with or without expansion of blood into the ventricles due to rupture of blood vessels. Several factors that increase the risk of this condition are chronic hypertension, amyloid angiopathy, anticoagulant treatment, and vascular malformations. Intracerebral hemorrhage can cause primary and secondary brain injury. Primary brain injury is the initial damage to the parenchyma by a blood clot. While secondary brain injury is a pathological change after bleeding. The most common clinical sign of this disease is a sudden focal neurological deficit. Management of intracerebral hemorrhage starts from drug therapy to surgery. This article discusses the case of a 43-year-old male patient with complaints of weakness in the left leg and arm since 3 hours before admission to the hospital. Other complaints include sudden vomiting preceded by a severe headache 1 day before admission to the hospital. The patient has a history of hypertension since 13 years ago but rarely consumes drugs and heart disease (STEMI) in June 2024. The patient also has a smoking habit since 10 years ago. Physical examination found blood pressure 165/97 mmHg, mouth turned to the left (N VII), tongue deviation to the left (N XII), left hemiparesis. Sodium examination found 133 mmol / L (hyponatremia). Non-contrast head CT scan examination found the impression of a hyperdense lesion in the right hemisphere, an impression of intracerebral hemorrhage. The patient was given drug management without surgical management.

Urinary Tract Infection Associated with Catheter Use in Hospitalized Patients

Yoga Ananta — 2025-02-21

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a disorder caused by microorganisms that multiply in the urinary tract, which is normally sterile from bacteria. Risk factors for UTI include age, gender, medical procedures such as catheterization, hygiene, and duration of catheter use. Catheter-related UTI is the most common type of nosocomial infection, with a prevalence of up to 80% in patients who use catheters. The main cause of UTI is gram-negative bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (48.44%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae. In women, the risk is higher because the urethra is shorter and closer to the anus. UTI is divided into lower and upper urinary tract infections, where symptoms vary from pain during urination to serious complications such as pyelonephritis and urosepsis. The pathophysiology of UTI often involves the colonization of microorganisms on the catheter or urinary tract. The risk of infection increases with the duration of catheter placement, reaching 5–10% per day. Diagnosis of UTI involves history taking, physical examination, and urine culture, although modern methods such as flow cytometry are increasingly used for efficiency. Prevention involves personal hygiene, aseptic technique during catheter insertion, and prophylactic antibiotic use in selected cases. Treatment of UTI includes empiric antibiotics such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, fluoroquinolones, or nitrofurantoin, depending on the severity and causal pathogen. Appropriate preventive and treatment approaches can reduce the incidence of UTI, improve patient quality of life, and decrease the rate of complications.

Keywords: Trigger Factors, Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), Catheter

Relationship Between Gender and Anxiety Levels Among Medical Students: A Literature Review

Daniatul Firdausy — 2025-02-21

Anxiety is one of the mental disorders often experienced by medical students due to high academic pressure. Factors that influence anxiety include biological, psychological, and social aspects. This study aims to determine the relationship between gender and anxiety levels in medical students. The method used is a literature review with a total sampling technique, in which four selected journals from the period 2015–2025 were analyzed. The results showed that female students have higher levels of anxiety compared to male students. This is due to several factors, such as hormonal differences, where estrogen plays a role in the regulation of serotonin which affects anxiety, and differences in emotional responses, where women are more likely to use emotion-based coping strategies. In addition, greater social pressure on women also contributes to their high levels of anxiety. The impact of high anxiety on students can affect academic achievement, concentration, and overall mental health. Therefore, it is important for educational institutions to provide psychological support and effective stress management programs to help students, especially women, manage anxiety. With the right intervention, it is hoped that medical students can be better prepared to face academic and professional challenges without experiencing significant psychological disorders.

Relationship Of Neutrophil Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) With Length Of Stay In Pneumonia Patients At Dr. H. Abdul Moeloek Regional General Hospital, Lampung Province

Dinul Aliya Julianti — 2025-02-21

Pneumonia is an acute infection of the lung tissue due to bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Increased RNL values in pneumonia patients are biomarkers to systemic inflammatory responses that are easily quantified, inexpensive, and easily interpretable in the prognosis of pneumonia patients associated with length of stay. However, there is still not much relevant amount of research, and its application in daily practice is still minimal. This study aimed to identify the relationship of NLR with the length of hospitalization in pneumonia patients. This study used a cross sectional design. The data collection technique is a total sampling with a sample size of 39 patients. The research location is at Dr. H. Abdul Moeloek Regional General Hospital, Lampung Province and will take place in July-December 2022. The independent variable is RNL, while the dependent variable is the length of stay. Data obtained from the results of laboratory supporting examinations in the medical records of pneumonia patients. The collected data were then analyzed using the Chi-square test with a CI of 95%. The results showed that the majority of patients came from the age group of 51-60 years (51.3%) and were male (61%). The average pneumonia patient had a high ANC value (9,260) and a normal ALC (1,244) so that a high NLR average (10,067) was obtained with an average long stay (6 days). There is a relationship between NLR and length of stay in pneumonia patients at Dr. H. Abdul Moeloek Regional General Hospital, Lampung Province (p<0.05).

Effects of Flavonoids on Duodenal Ulcer: Analysis of Anti-Ulcer Action and Antioxidant Properties

Aulia Jannatuz Zahra — 2025-02-21

Duodenal ulcer is a pathological condition characterized by damage to the duodenal mucosa due to an imbalance between protective and aggressive factors, such as gastric acid and pepsin. The primary factors contributing to the development of this ulcer include Helicobacter pylori infection. Additionally, prolonged use of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) is also a significant factor in the occurrence of duodenal ulcers, as these drugs inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, which plays a crucial role in mucosal protection. In Indonesia, the prevalence of duodenal ulcers is estimated to be around 11–14%. Flavonoids, as bioactive compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-ulcer properties, have been widely studied for their potential in the management of peptic ulcers, including duodenal ulcers. Flavonoids have been shown to inhibit gastric acid secretion, stimulate mucus production, and protect the gastrointestinal mucosa through cytoprotective and antioxidative mechanisms, specifically by inhibiting reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, flavonoids have the ability to suppress H. pylori growth, thereby contributing to the prevention of ulcer pathogenesis caused by this bacterium. Flavonoids also enhance blood flow to the gastric mucosa and modulate enzymes involved in epithelial defense. Despite these benefits, the main challenges in utilizing flavonoids are their low bioavailability and potential toxicity at high doses. Therefore, further studies are essential to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and formulation optimization of flavonoids to enhance their availability as a natural therapeutic alternative and their application in the clinical treatment of peptic ulcers.

The Effect Of Giving Black Pepper Ethanol Extract (Piper Nigrum L) on Blood Sugar Levels and Spermatogonia Count of Diabetes Model Male White Rats (Rattus Novergicus) Sprague Dawley Strain

Jinan Naura Talin — 2025-02-21

Diabetes mellitus that is not treated properly can result in infertility. The piperine content in black pepper can help in the quality of spermatogenesis process and blood sugar levels. This study aims to determine the effect of black pepper (P. nigrum L) ethanol extract on blood sugar levels and the number of spermatogonia in a diabetes model of male white rats (R. norvegicus) Sprague dawley strain. The study used a Posttest-only Randomized Control Group on 24 rats divided into 4 groups. All groups were induced with alloxan 150 mg/kgBW except for KN. P1 and P2 were given 122.5 mg/kgBW and 245 mg/kgBW black pepper ethanol extract. Blood sugar levels were checked using Easy Touch GCU with a normal limit of 50-135 mg/dL. The number of spermatogonia was calculated using a tool, namely ImageJ. The data were analyzed using the Shapiro- Wilk normality test and homogeneity test, followed by the Kruskal Wallis non-parametric test and the Post Hoc test. The statistical results of blood sugar levels obtained normally distributed data p>0.05, non-homogeneous data p<0.05, significant Kruskal-Wallis test results and continued Post Hoc test obtained significant results at P2 and K-. The number of spermatogonia obtained normally distributed data p>0.05, non-homogeneous data p<0.05. The results of the Kruskal-Wallis test were significant p<0.05 and continued Post Hoc test obtained significant results at P2 and P1. There was a decrease in blood sugar levels in the administration of black pepper ethanol extract (P. nigrum L) in the diabetes model of male white rats (R. norvegicus) Sprague dawley strain. However, there was no effect of administering black pepper ethanol extract (P. nigrum L) on the number of spermatogonia in the diabetes model of male white rats (R. norvegicus) Sprague dawley strain.

Congestive Heart Failure in a 31-Week Pregnant Primigravida with Congenital Heart Disease: a Case Report

Nurmayeni — 2025-02-21

Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) is a congenital heart disease where this disease has been present since a person was born. In pregnancy there are significant physiological changes in the cardiovascular system. These hemodynamic changes pose problems for mothers with congenital heart disease. This study is a case report. Data was obtained from a 31 year old woman who came with complaints of preterm pregnancy with complaints of severe shortness of breath since 2 weeks before entering the hospital with CHD. On physical examination, it was found that the general condition was seriously ill, compost mentis, blood pressure 107/84 mmHg, pulse 130x/minute, respiration 39x/minute, temperature 36.6°C, SpO2 70% NRM 15 lpm. On chest examination, a continuous murmur and wet rhonchi were found. Hematological examination showed an increase in ESR, urea, creatinine, SGOT and SGPT. Chest X-ray showed suspicion of pulmonary edema, bronchopneumonia and cardiomegaly. The results of the echocardiography examination showed PDA balanced shunt, PH, Severe TR, Moderate PR, Mild MR, RV mass 0.5 x 0.9 cm susp Infective Endocarditis. The patient was diagnosed with G1P0A0 26 weeks pregnant, not yet in labor with Dyspenu ec CHF with Congenital Heart Disease (PDA), Intrauterine JTH. Management of this patient is observation of general condition and vital signs, IVFD RL 500 cc 20 tpm, injection of furosemide 2 ampoules, ISDN 3 x 5 mg. Then transferred to the intensive care unit (ICU) and then terminated the pregnancy abdominally. The patient was declared dead on the 2nd day of treatment due to cardiogenic shock.

Tuberculous Meningitis in a 16-Year-Old Male: Case Report

Sulthan Rafi Alghani — 2025-02-21

Tuberculous meningitis is a form of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection that affects the meninges of the brain. The case discussed involves a 16-year-old male adolescent who initially presented with symptoms of headache, fever, neck pain, and neck stiffness, which persisted for several weeks. The delay in diagnosis occurred due to the similarity of the initial symptoms to bacterial meningitis, often leading to postponed TB treatment. The diagnosis was established through anamnesis, physical examination, and supporting tests, including a molecular rapid test (TCM) on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and a head CT scan, which confirmed the presence of miliary TB in the lungs and meningitis accompanied by hydrocephalus. The patient also experienced a weight loss of four kilograms over the past two weeks, indicating systemic signs of chronic infection. Although the patient received Anti-Tuberculosis Treatment (ATT) such as rifampicin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol, his condition deteriorated, and he ultimately passed away on the ninth day of hospitalization. Neurological examination revealed a progressive decline in consciousness to a GCS score of 8 and the presence of pathological reflexes, such as a positive Babinski sign, confirming central nervous system involvement. The mortality rate of TB meningitis remains high due to delayed ATT caused by the lack of early diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of early detection to improve patient prognosis. Preventive efforts through active screening of high-risk groups and education about the early symptoms of TB meningitis are crucial in reducing morbidity and mortality rates.

The Role of Between Scenario Quality and Prior Knowledge on the Effectiveness of Tutorial Discussions in Problem-Based Learning (PBL): Literature Review

Iffah Salma Mu'izabby — 2025-02-21

Problem-Based Learning (PBL) is a learning method that puts students at the centre of the learning process, encouraging them to learn independently through problem solving. One of the main approaches in PBL is tutorial discussion, which plays an important role in promoting deep learning. The effectiveness of tutorial discussions is influenced by three main aspects: the quality of the problem scenario, students' prior knowledge, and tutor performance. The scenario should be authentic, relevant to the students' level of understanding, and able to stimulate independent learning. Students' prior knowledge also affects their contribution to the discussion, as adequate understanding allows for more active engagement. In addition, the tutor's role in facilitating the discussion also influences the success of the PBL method. The quality of the scenario and prior knowledge play an important role in the effectiveness of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) discussions, although their relationship is not always statistically significant. The quality of a well-designed scenario can stimulate meaningful discussions, motivate students, and support the achievement of learning objectives. Prior knowledge, while not necessarily determining the success of the discussion, influences how students integrate new information. Groups with lower prior knowledge can show higher discussion effectiveness through active exploration. Overall, the effectiveness of PBL is influenced by the interaction between the quality of learning design and student characteristics, suggesting the need for a holistic approach in designing PBL scenarios.

Raising Awareness of Cotton Bud Risks: A Health Education Initiative to Prevent Harm

Salsabila Alifiyah Setiawan — 2025-02-21

A common practice in the community is to clean the ears independently to remove earwax that is considered annoying. The act of cleaning the ear canal by using ear cotton aids, actually causes the cerumen to be pushed deeper, which can close the tympanic membrane, causing temporary hearing loss. Cleaning the ear itself is inserting objects into the ear canal with the aim of removing earwax is a practice that has the potential to disrupt the natural cleaning mechanism, and is a risk factor for injury to the ear. Community service activities in the form of counseling “Education on the Dangers of Using Cotton Buds” were carried out on Thursday, January 25, 2024 which took place on the 3rd floor of the Poli Dr. H. Abdul Moeloek Hospital Lampung Province. This activity was attended by 12 audiences who were patients who were checking themselves to the ENT-KL Poly and Poly on the 3rd floor of the Poly Building of Dr. H. Abdul Moeloek Hospital Lampung Province. Pre and Post Tests were conducted as a measuring tool to evaluate the increase in audience knowledge after being given counseling. An increase in percentage was obtained, from 60% in the pretest results and 97% in the post-test results. This counseling activity proved to be effective in increasing community knowledge so it is recommended to be carried out regularly. Lack of knowledge about the dangers of using cotton buds could potentially increase the risk of ear injury. Therefore, it is important to educate the community on the correct way to care for the ears, as well as the dangers of improper use of cotton buds. Through this counseling activity, it is hoped that it can increase public awareness and understanding of the importance of safe and healthy ear care.

Antibacterial Activity of Green Tea Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) on Gram Positive and Gram Negative Bacteria

Syafira Hasna Afifah — 2025-02-21

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is a catechin compound found in green tea and is known for its various health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activity. Research on the antibacterial effects of EGCG shows that this compound has significant potential in inhibiting the growth of various pathogens, both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Gram-positive bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae, are more sensitive to EGCG than Gram-negative bacteria. The antibacterial mechanism of EGCG in Gram-positive bacteria involves disrupting cell membrane integrity and inhibiting biofilm formation, while in Gram-negative bacteria, EGCG can increase the permeability of the outer membrane and increase the penetration efficiency of antibiotics. However, the main challenge in using EGCG against Gram-negative bacteria is the structural barrier present in the outer membrane, which limits the penetration of the compound. The use of EGCG in combination therapy with antibiotics shows great potential in overcoming antibiotic-resistant infections, strengthening antibacterial activity, and reducing side effects. Although EGCG shows promise as an antibacterial therapy, challenges related to bioavailability, stability, and formulation need to be overcome to optimize its potential in the treatment of difficult-to-treat bacterial infections.