https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/33311 Sun, 12 Apr 2026 07:09:30 GMT 2026-04-12T07:09:30Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/8244 Title: Fibular stress fracture in a female cross-country runner : a case report Authors: Psaila, Matthew; Micallef Stafrace, Kirill Abstract: Stress fractures are probably the most feared class of injuries amongst endurance athletes, especially runners, since they require lengthy rehabilitation periods and temporary but drastic modifications of their training regime. A detailed literature review is presented with the aim of highlighting the importance of athlete education as well as pre-participation screening in female athletes for one or more components of the triad. Tue, 01 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/8244 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/8243 Title: A study on the management of corticosteroid side effects in cancer patients Authors: Fsadni, Clayton John Abstract: Background Systemic corticosteroids lead to many adverse effects especially in cancer patients. Preventive measures and treatment options are essential to minimise such side effects. Objectives The aims of the study included the evaluation of the prescribers’ management of corticosteroid induced hyperglycaemia, dyspepsia, oral candidiasis and proximal myopathy, the discussion of possible reasons for non-adherence to guidelines, and the recommendation of interventions to reduce their risk of occurrence. Method A retrospective review of the medical records for 156 consecutive patients at oncology out-patients and in oncology wards of Boffa Hospital between the 1st and the 14th September 2014 was performed. Only patients who were on long term corticosteroids (>2 weeks’ duration) were considered. Patients younger than 12 years of age or those that were prescribed corticosteroids for antiemetic purposes were excluded from the study. For each of the sampled patients, any management aimed at reducing corticosteroid side effects was compared to the guidelines as stated in an article published in a prominent international journal. Results From 156 cancer patients, 55 patients satisfied the inclusion criteria. The mostly addressed side effect was dyspepsia (n=35; 63.6%) followed by proximal myopathy (n=27; 49%), hyperglycaemia (n=24; 43.6%) and lastly oral candidiasis (n=20; 36%). Adherence to guidelines was as follows: hyperglycaemia – haemo-glucose test (HGT) and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) (36%); dyspepsia - prescribing of omeprazole (51%) and ranitidine (5%); oral candidiasis - orophargyngeal exam (29%); and proximal myopathy (40% compliance; of which 35% complying with resistance and endurance exercise and 5% complying with steroid dose reduction). Conclusion Improvement is required with regards to the management of corticosteroid side effects especially for hyperglycaemia and oral candidiasis. Possible actions that may be taken include strategies to improve guideline awareness, the prescribing of the lowest effective dose, adequate patient education and the implementation of a steroid card. Tue, 01 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/8243 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/8242 Title: Obesity and sedentary behaviour in children and their implications in adulthood Authors: Saliba, Mario Abstract: The problem of childhood overweight and obesity are becoming more prevalent. Sedentary behaviours and the lack of physical activity are considered as independent health risk factors. The commoner chronic illnesses in adults such as obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and cancer are aggravated by a sedentary life. The evidence strongly suggests that sedentary behaviour is correlated to obesity in childhood and can negatively affect health in early adulthood. A literature review about the problem of childhood obesity and sedentary behaviour in children and their implications in adulthood is discussed. Efforts should be made to introduce specific interventions to increase physical activity among children and decrease sedentary behaviour such as television viewing and using electronic media. Campaigns and training programmes for parents should be implemented. Tue, 01 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/8242 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/8241 Title: Journal of the Malta College of Family Doctors : volume 4 : issue 3 Authors: Mallia, Pierre Abstract: The mission of the Journal of the Malta College of Family Doctors (JMCFD) is to deliver accurate, relevant and inspiring research, continued medical education and debate in family medicine with the aim of encouraging improved patient care through academic development of the discipline. The JMCFD strives to achieve its role to disseminate information on the objectives and activities of the College. Description: Contents: Collegiality, philanthropy and research - Pierre Mallia; FMCFD conferment and MMCFD graduation at MCFD 25th Anniversary Dinner, Attard Tue, 01 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/8241 2015-12-01T00:00:00Z