One Health & Risk Management

Ureaplasma in pregnancy. Is there any risk for preterm labor?

2025-03-15T11:31:39+00:00

Introduction. Ureaplasma species, particularly Ureaplasma urealyticum and Ureaplasma parvum, inhabit the lower genital tract of sexually active women and have been linked to adverse reproductive outcomes. This review highlights their role in preterm delivery, along with detection challenges and pathogenic mechanisms.

Material and methods. This review compiles data from 25 studies, encompassing a total of approximately 15,700 patients. These studies include retrospective and prospective cohorts, cross-sectional designs, and case-control studies. Key parameters evaluated included impact of Ureaplasma species on pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm labor and chorioamnionitis.

Results. The studies reviewed (2000–2024) included 10 retrospective, 8 prospective, 4 cross-sectional, and 3 case-control designs. Ureaplasma parvum was found in 40.5% of healthy women and Ureaplasma urealyticum in 20.3%. Intra-amniotic infection increased preterm delivery risk (OR: 2.76–3.0), with preterm birth rates ranging from 26% to 58.6%. Ureaplasma induces pro-inflammatory cytokines, activates neutrophils and TLR-9, and increases prostaglandin and matrix metalloproteinase activity, weakening fetal membranes and triggering preterm labor.

Conclusions. Ureaplasma spp. significantly contribute to preterm delivery, primarily through inflammatory processes and membrane damage. Further research with prospective randomized studies is recommended.

Genetic diversity analysis of the SARS-CoV-2 virus: a literature review

2025-03-15T11:31:39+00:00

Introduction. The continuous evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 virus through the accumulation of genetic mutations has led to the emergence of variants with different characteristics, including increased transmissibility, heightened resistance, and changes in disease severity.

Material and methods. The research was conducted using open-access international databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and national libraries, employing the keywords: SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19, genetic monitoring, mutation variants, sequencing, S protein.

Results. Currently, the WHO identifies five major genetic variants of concern (VOCs): Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, and Omicron. The Alpha variant became globally dominant in early 2021 and was replaced by the Delta variant in the summer of 2021. The Delta strain has over 13 mutations, nine of which are found in the S protein. The genome of the Omicron variant contains more than 30 mutations in the conserved domain of the Spike protein. The Omicron variant caused a sharp increase in the number of COVID-19 cases worldwide and was responsible for a record 15 million new infections reported worldwide in one week.

Conclusions. The continuous evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 genome poses new challenges for public health. It is essential to study the virus's genetic characteristics to understand mutations, immune evasion, and the persistent effects of infection, with the aim of optimizing prevention and treatment strategies.

Perceptions of family physicians regarding patients' self-medication

2025-03-15T11:31:40+00:00

Introduction. Self-medication is the practice of using medications to treat self-diagnosed conditions without prior consultation with a healthcare specialist. This phenomenon is widespread globally, reaching a rate of over 90% in some countries. The objective of the study was to explore and analyze the perceptions of family physicians in the Republic of Moldova regarding self-medication.

Material and methods. The study was conducted using descriptive, quantitative, and cross-sectional methods. Data were collected from November 2023 to March 2024 on a sample of 346 family physicians from the Republic of Moldova.

Results. It was found that 87.6% of physicians frequently or very frequently encounter patients who resort to self-medication, and 68.79% of physicians have a negative attitude toward this phenomenon. No statistically significant differences were observed between the region, work environment, or work experience of the physicians and the frequency of patients practicing self-medication (p>0.05). A trend was noted of an intensified negative attitude toward self-medication with increasing work experience (p<0.05). At the same time, 55.2% of physicians identified the lack of awareness of the risks associated with self-medication as the main factor driving patients to engage in this practice.

Conclusions. Self-medication is frequently observed in the Republic of Moldova, with a primary factor being the lack of awareness, making public education on this issue imperative. The negative attitude toward self-medication increases with the physician’s work experience and is influenced by their own practices. Medical professionals play a decisive role in preventing the risks of self-medication through informing, providing therapeutic advice, and educating patients.