https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/124972 Thu, 16 Apr 2026 23:39:31 GMT 2026-04-16T23:39:31Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/125197 Title: MMJ : new instructions to authors Abstract: Readers and contributors to the Malta Medical Journal will be aware that the MMJ has had significant administrative problems relating to the final processing of manuscripts prior to their publication on-line. As a result, and in tandem with ever-increasing manuscript submissions, the MMJ has accrued a large backlog of completed papers awaiting publication that, in some instances, has exceeded eighteen months. Following discussions with personnel from Administration within the Faculty of Medicine and senior members within the Marketing, Communications and Alumni Office at the University of Malta measures have now been taken to address this crisis. Whilst we welcome the new help and thank those who have made this possible, we have started to work on the backlog and hope that time intervals from submission-to-publication will start to reduce. Indeed the last three issues have been finalised and turned around in a relatively short period of just a few months. Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/125197 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/125196 Title: Early intervention for infantile capillary haemangiomas at Mater Dei Hospital Authors: Grech, Victor E. Abstract: Infantile capillary haemangiomas (strawberry nevus) are common, benign vascular tumours that appear in infancy, typically within the first few weeks to months of life. While many of these haemangiomas undergo spontaneous regression, some may present challenges due to their size, location, or associated complications. Early intervention is crucial to prevent potential disfigurement, functional impairment, or other complications, especially when lesions affect critical areas such as the face, particularly near the eyes or nasal bridge. Propranolol is highly effective in arresting progression and inducing regression of these lesions. This editorial describes the problems and issues that may arise from infantile haemangiomas and alerts the local medical community to this service at Mater Dei Hospital since early referral for prompt evaluation and treatment, if necessary, ensures optimal functional and cosmetic outcomes. Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/125196 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/125195 Title: Good practices for childhood obesity prevention in kindergartens and primary schools in Malta Authors: Attard, Jason; Portelli, Martina; Gauci, Charmaine Abstract: BACKGROUND: Obesity is a worldwide and chronic disease with significant morbidity and mortality which often begins in childhood. Kindergartens and schools are unique settings that may contribute towards the prevention of childhood obesity through ensuring a safe and supportive environment and the development of personal life skills. The aim of this study was to identify good practices, as defined by the Joint Action across Europe on Nutrition and Physical Activity (JANPA), that are effective and sustainable for childhood obesity prevention in kindergarten and primary schools in Malta.; METHODS: This descriptive study design involved the development of an online questionnaire using the nine core criteria of the JANPA toolbox. An operational definition of fulfilling six core criteria was used to qualify an initiative as a good practice. The questionnaire was sent to the Heads of School of all kindergartens and primary schools in Malta. Two researchers independently of each other reviewed the replies for each initiative and assigned one point for each fulfilled core criteria. The total sum of points produced a JANPA core criteria score for that initiative.; RESULTS: The response rate for this study was 21.9%. 24 out of a total of 39 initiatives achieved the operational JANPA core criteria score of 6. Initiatives were grouped into nutrition only, physical activity only, and combined nutrition and physical activity good practices and were described.; CONCLUSIONS: This study identified several good practices that can be extended to other schools across Malta. The survey tool can also be used when designing and implementing new initiatives. Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/125195 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/125194 Title: A short survey about drug deprescribing Authors: Camilleri, Doriella; Farrugia, Francesca; Gauci, Marise; Ferry, Peter Abstract: AIM: The main purpose of the survey is to discover practices about deprescribing of potentially inappropriate polypharmacy among doctors working within the Department of Geriatric Medicine in Malta.; METHODS: An online questionnaire was distributed via electronic mail to all doctors more senior than foundation year 1 working within the mentioned department between August and September 2021.; RESULTS: A response rate of 54% was obtained. Just over half of the participants admitted to deprescribe at every opportunity, with psychiatric medications being mostly deprescribed. One of the commonest reasons for deprescribing included medication not indicated. Lack of knowledge about the reason for prescription and being prescribed by others were primary barriers to deprescribing. The role of a clinical pharmacist and need for a guideline was reflected in the results.; CONCLUSION: The importance of deprescribing is appreciated by many doctors working in geriatrics in Malta, but there is still room for improvement. Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/125194 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z