cover
Contact Name
-
Contact Email
-
Phone
-
Journal Mail Official
chiefeditor.amj@gmail.com
Editorial Address
Gedung Rumah Sakit Pendidikan Unpad/Pamitran Unpad (Teaching Hospital Building) Faculty of Medicine Unpad, 3rd Floor Jl. Prof. Eyckman No. 38, Bandung, 40161, Indonesia
Location
Kota bandung,
Jawa barat
INDONESIA
Althea Medical Journal
ISSN : -     EISSN : 23374330     DOI : 10.15850/amj
Core Subject : Health,
Althea Medical Journal (AMJ) is a peer reviewed electronic scientific publication journal which is published every 3 months (March, June, September, and December). Althea Medical Journal publishes articles related to research in biomedical sciences, clinical medicine, family-community medicine, and public health.
Arjuna Subject : -
Articles 1,068 Documents
Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Irisin, Telomerase, Klotho, and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) in Elderly: A Quasi-Experimental Study Mukhtar, Diniwati; Rahmah, Nunung Ainur; Wuryanti, Sri; Marsiati, Himmi; Haddad, Desi Ariyani; Manik, Sabarina Elfrida; Weni, Linda; Nursabur, Bistamy Muhammad; Hutabarat, Andrea Ivana Allicia; Puspita, Switania Putri
Althea Medical Journal Vol 12, No 3 (2025)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v12n3.4286

Abstract

Background: Vitamin D plays a crucial role in aging by regulating mitochondrial function, inflammation, oxidative stress, and telomere stability. Vitamin D deficiency is common among the elderly and is linked to accelerated aging. Biomarkers such as irisin, telomerase, klotho, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) are associated with aging processes. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on these biomarkers in elderly individuals.Methods: This quasi-experimental pretest-posttest study was conducted in Kadugadung Village, Banten, Indonesia from Maret to September 2024.  A total of 47 healthy elderly individuals (≥60 years) were recruited using purposive sampling. The treatment group (n=25) received 800 IU/day of vitamin D for 20 days, whereas the control group (n=22) received none. Blood samples were collected before and after the intervention to measure serum irisin, telomerase activity, klotho, and TNF-α. Baseline variables included body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, hemoglobin, hematocrit, blood glucose, cholesterol, and uric acid. Data were analyzed using paired and independent statistical tests.Results: Vitamin D supplementation significantly increased serum irisin levels (p=0.016), meanwhile no significant changes were observed in telomerase activity (p=0.128), klotho (p=0.819), or TNF-α (p=0.098). In the treatment group, blood glucose was correlated positively with TNF-α (r=0.423, α<0.05), whereas cholesterol was correlated negatively with TNF-α (r=-0.51, α<0.01). Furthermore, telomerase activity was correlated positively with irisin (r=0.348, α<0.05).Conclusion: Vitamin D supplementation at 800 IU/day significantly enhances serum irisin, but does not affect telomerase, klotho, or TNF-α. These findings suggest a potential role of vitamin D in modulating aging-related biomarkers.
Correlation of Various Levels of Body Mass Index to Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-A Permana, Noah Jefferson; Lesmana, Ronny; Setiawan, Setiawan; Lubis, Leonardo; Rosdianto, Aziiz Mardanarian; Rejeki, Purwo Sri
Althea Medical Journal Vol 12, No 3 (2025)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v12n3.4296

Abstract

Background: Obesity, reflected by high body mass index (BMI) value, has become a global health concern. Both obesity and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) are major risk factors for cardiometabolic diseases. Although many studies have shown that obesity induces angiogenesis through increased VEGF-A, there remains a  gap regarding the correlation between BMI categories and VEGF-A levels. This study aimed to analyze the correlation between various level of BMI and VEGF-A concentrations.Methods: This cross-sectional in vivo study analyzed blood samples from 90 adults enrolled in the Universitas Padjadjaran Wellness Program ( December 2022–June 2023) selected using simple random sampling.VEGF-A concentrations were measured using multiplex ELISA assays. Data normality was assessed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Differences between BMI groups were analyze with ANOVA, and correlations were evaluated using Pearson’s test. Results: Of the 90 samples, 62 were included, and were grouped as normal weight (29%), overweight (32.2%), obesity class I (30.6%), obesity class II (6.4%), and obesity class III (1.6%). Mean VEGF-A concentrations showed an increasing trend with higher BMI, though differences between groups were not statistically significant (p=0.482). A weak positive correlation was observed between BMI and VEGF-A levels (r=0.267; p=0.036).Conclusion: Higher BMI is associated with higher VEGF-A, indicating obesity-induced inflammation and angiogenic activity. These findings highlight the importance of weight control through balanced diet and physical activity to mitigate long-term risks of cardiometabolic and chronic diseases.
Determinants of Cardiovascular Disease Risk in the Chronic Disease Management Program at Pasirkaliki Public Health Center, Bandung, Indonesia Permatasari, Rina Dhyanti; Wahyudi, Yustia Edwina
Althea Medical Journal Vol 12, No 3 (2025)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v12n3.4154

Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading causes of death worldwide and are influenced by multiple risk factors. Stratifying CVD risk using the World Health Organization (WHO) CVD risk charts for Southeast Asia can support routine management, especially for patients with chronic diseases. This study aimed to assess determinants of CVD risk among patients enrolled in the Chronic Disease Management Program at a Public Health Center.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in June 2024 at Pasirkaliki Public Health Center, Bandung, Indonesia. Purposive sampling was applied to select medical records and data was extracted, including age, gender, smoking status, history of diabetes mellitus (DM), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and total cholesterol (TC). CVD risk was stratified using WHO CVD risk classification charts for Southeast Asia. Descriptive and correlation analyses were performed.Results: A total of 124 data patients were collected, with the majority were female adults, non-smokers, had a history of DM with grade 1 hypertension and TC levels between 5.0–5.99 mmol/L. CVD risk stratification showed 43.5% high risk, 25% moderate risk and 16.9% low risk. Interestingly, very high risk was detected in 13.7% and 0.8% was an extremely high risk. Age was strongly correlated with CVD risk (r=0.708, p<0.01), and SBP showed a moderate correlation (r=0.646, p<0.01), whereas TC levels were not significantly correlated (p=0.064).Conclusion: Patient-related factors increase the CVD risk, particularly age and SBP. Routine risk stratification and strengthened chronic disease management program are essential to reduce CVD-related morbidity and mortality.
Overnutrition Status Is Associated with Elevated Blood Pressure among Adolescents in Central Jakarta, Indonesia Palimbong, Jason Emmanuel; Djaja, Prissilia Nanny; Vetinly, Vetinly; Tjhay, Francisca
Althea Medical Journal Vol 12, No 3 (2025)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v12n3.4189

Abstract

Background: Overweight and obesity are rising among Indonesian adolescents and are known risk factors for hypertension. This study aimed to examine the relationship between overnutrition status and blood pressure among adolescents.Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to September 2024, among overweight and obese adolescents aged 12–16 years in Central Jakarta, Indonesia.  Nutritional status was determined by body mass index (BMI) Z-scores based on CDC growth charts, adjusted for sex and age. Blood pressure was measured using a digital sphygmomanometer and classified according to the 2017 AAP guidelines. Data were analyzed using chi-square tests. Results: A total of 98 adolescents participated (67.3% male; mean age 13 years). Overweight (49%) and obesity (51%) were almost equally distributed, with the highest BMI recorded at 46.7 kg/m². More than half (58.2%) had elevated blood pressure, with one case reaching grade 2 hypertension (143/84 mmHg). Overnutrition status was significantly associated with elevated blood pressure (p=0.044). Stratified analysis showed a strong association among males (p=0.005), where 42.4% of obese males exhibited elevated blood pressure, but no significant association was observed among females (p=0.58).Conclusion: Overnutrition is significantly associated with elevated blood pressure among adolescents, particularly in males. Early interventions promoting balanced nutrition, physical activity, and healthy lifestyle habits are critical to reducing the long-term cardiovascular risk in this age group.
Therapeutic Effects of Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 Inhibitors in Dyslipidemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials Hikmayani, Nur Hafidha; Febrinasari, Ratih Puspita; Satwika, Ariq Ratya
Althea Medical Journal Vol 12, No 3 (2025)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v12n3.4209

Abstract

Background: Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors represent a novel class of medications for managing dyslipidemia. Although previous meta-analyses have confirmed their efficacy in lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), few have evaluated their effects on broader lipid parameters. Moreover, most studies focus on the general dyslipidemic population, provided limited insight into specific subgroups. This study specifically investigated the effects of PCSK9 inhibitors on multiple lipid parameters in individuals with dyslipidemia who were statin-intolerant, statin-resistant, or required intensified lipid-lowering treatment.Methods: This study systematically searched PubMed, ScienceDirect, and the Cochrane Library for phase 3 randomized controlled trials (2013-2023), evaluating PCSK9 inhibitors against placebo or non-statin standard care in dyslipidemic patients aged ≥18 years. The main outcome was the changes from baseline in lipid parameters. Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted using RevMan. Results: Eight studies involving 2,343 participants met eligibility criteria. PCSK9 inhibitors significantly reduced LDL-C (MD -46.8, 95% CI [-53.2; -40.4]), non-HDL-C (MD -41.1 [-46.9; -35.3]), total cholesterol (MD -31.5 [-37.8; -25.2]), triglycerides (MD -11.7 [-15.0; -8.4], Lp(a) (MD -19.2 [-25.7; -12.6]), and ApoB (MD -39.4 [-45.0; -33.7]). PCSK9 inhibitors also significantly increased HDL-C (MD 6.3 [4.7; 7.9]) and ApoA-I (MD 4.1 [2.8; 5.5]).Conclusion: PCSK9 inhibitors significantly improve a broad spectrum of lipid parameters, including non-traditional markers such as non-HDL-C, ApoA-I, ApoB, and Lp(a), underscoring their potential role in managing dyslipidemia, particularly in patients inadequately controlled with standard therapies.
Consumption of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages Is Related to Fasting Blood Glucose and the Nutritional Status among Young Adults in Indonesia Syahranni, Dhanya; Kurniati, Ardesy Melizah; Liberty, Iche Andriyani; Husin, Syarif; Zulissetiana, Eka Febri
Althea Medical Journal Vol 12, No 3 (2025)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v12n3.4139

Abstract

Background: Habitual consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) is linked to elevated blood glucose and increased body weight. Medical students often experience high stress, which may increase SSBs consumption. This study aimed to examine the associations between SSB consumption, fasting blood glucose, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference among medical students.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in October 2022 using a total sampling method involving 184 first-year students at the Faculty of Medicine Universitas Sriwijaya, Palembang, Indonesia. SSBs consumption was assessed using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (SQ-FFQ). Fasting blood glucose was measured by  glucometer after an overnight fast. Body height, weight, and waist circumference were measured using a stadiometer, digital scale, and tape measure, respectively. Physical activity was assessed with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire–Short Form (IPAQ-SF). Associations were tested using Kruskall Wallis, independent t-test, and chi square as appropriate.Results: Most students consumed SSBs 3–4 times per week and in amount >495 mL. The volume of SSBs consumption was associated with BMI (p=0.02), fasting blood glucose (p<0.001), and waist circumference (p<0.01). Similarly, the frequency of SSBs consumption was associated with fasting blood glucose (p=0.04) and waist circumference (p<0.01), but not with BMI (p=0.16). Conclusion: Consumption of SSBs among students is high. Frequent and high-volume consumption of SSBs is associated with elevated fasting blood glucose levels and the nutritional status, whereas higher volume is associated with increased BMI. Reducing SSB intake and promoting healthier beverage choices may support a sustainable healthy lifestyle in young adults. 
Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index as a Potential Indicator of COVID-19 Severity in a Tertiary Hospital in Indonesia Hamdan, Angkasa Ramatuan; Fianza, Pandji Irani; Hartantri, Yovita
Althea Medical Journal Vol 12, No 3 (2025)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v12n3.4238

Abstract

Background: The progression of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) to severe stages is strongly influenced by host immunity and inflammatory. The Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII) is a novel biomarker reflecting both immunity and inflammation. This study aimed to analyze differences in SII according to COVID-19 severity.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using medical records of COVID-19 patients hospitalized at Dr. Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia, between March 2020 and August 2021. SII was calculated as the absolute neutrophil count and platelet count divided by the absolute lymphocyte count obtained from peripheral blood samples. COVID-19 severity was classified based on oxygen saturation (SpO₂). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and the area under the curve (AUC) were used to evaluate the discriminatory ability of SII. Results: Of the 1,192 patients included, 410 (34.3%) had severe symptoms and 782 (65.7%) had mild to moderate symptoms. The median SII at admission was significantly higher in severe symptoms [1779 x 109 /L (IQR 46-40416)] compared with mild to moderate symptoms [880 x 109 /L (IQR 14.5-23280)]; p<0.001. ROC analysis showed an SII cut-off of 1244 with an AUC of 0.695 (95% CI 0.668–0.721), sensitivity 65.9%, and specificity 66.2%.Conclusions: SII may serve as a potential biomarker for predicting COVID 19 severity. Its simplicity and availability from routine blood counts make it particularly valuable for early risk stratification, especially in resource-limited settings. Moreover, early recognition of elevated SII could support timely interventions, prevent disease progression, and improve clinical outcomes.
Correlation between Hemoglobin Concentration and Oxygen Saturation Post-Exercise with Cardiorespiratory Fitness: Early Indicators for Cardiovascular Health in Young Adults Elizabeth, Elizabeth; Haryono, Ignatio Rika; Prastowo, Nawanto Agung; Santosa, Mariani; Arrang, Sherly Tandi
Althea Medical Journal Vol 12, No 3 (2025)
Publisher : Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15850/amj.v12n3.4233

Abstract

Background: Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is an important indicator of cardiorespiratory health and a strong predictor of mortality. Several factors affect CRF, including arterial oxygen content (CaO2), which is influenced by hemoglobin (Hb) concentration and oxygen saturation. However, the correlation between CRF and Hb remains inconclusive. This study aimed to explore the correlation between Hb concentration and oxygen saturation post-exercise with CRF, especially in young adults.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in October 2024, involving 68 medical students from a university in Jakarta, Indonesia. Consecutive stratified sampling was applied based on gender. The Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) and the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q+) were used as screening tools. Hb concentration and oxygens saturation were measured using a digital hemoglobinometer and pulse oximetry, while CRF was evaluated using a 20-meter multistage test. Additional measurements included body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, and heart rate. Data were analyzed with correlation and multiple linear regression tests.Results: The most participants were female (57.4%). Normal Hb concentration was found in 80.9% with mean Hb levels of 14.15±1.54 g/dL in males and 12.9±1.37 g/dL in females. CRF correlated positively with Hb concentration (p=0.005; r=1.13), and negatively with oxygen saturation post-exercise (p=0.005; r=-0.4). These correlations were significant in males and not in females.  Conclusion: Hb concentration and oxygen saturation post-exercise significantly correlate with CRF in males, whereas BMI and physical activity play stronger roles in females. Maintaining optimal Hb levels, preventing anemia, and promoting active lifestyles are essential strategies to support CRF, cardiovascular health, and long-term wellness.