Research Projects & Publications
Funded projects
Our institution actively undertakes research projects funded by prestigious organizations such as the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). These projects aim to address current healthcare challenges, promote evidence-based practice, and contribute to advancements in nursing and health sciences.
UGSRS
The Undergraduate Student Research Scheme (UGSRS), initiated by Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences, provides undergraduate students with opportunities to participate in research under faculty mentorship. The scheme encourages scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and the development of research competencies, enabling students to contribute to healthcare innovation and evidence-based practice.
Workshops
The institution regularly organizes workshops, seminars, faculty development programs, and hands-on training sessions to strengthen research knowledge and skills among students and faculty. Conducted in alignment with the guidelines and initiatives of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences, these programs foster a culture of scientific inquiry, innovation, and evidence-based practice.
1. Impact of Integrated Yoga Practice on Immune Parameters and Quality of Life of Adult People Living With HIV: A Randomized Open-Label Trial in Chittoor, India
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Background
People Living with HIV (PLWH) often experience challenges related to immune function, physical health, and overall quality of life despite receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). Yoga has been recognized as a potential complementary therapy that may improve physical, psychological, and immunological outcomes. This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of integrated yoga practice as an adjunct to standard HIV treatment.
Objectives
- To assess the impact of integrated yoga practice on immune parameters, particularly CD4 count and viral load.
- To evaluate changes in quality of life among adults living with HIV.
- To determine the effect of yoga on cardio-metabolic health indicators.
- To assess the cost-effectiveness of incorporating yoga into routine HIV care.
Study Design
This was a randomized open-label, parallel-group trial conducted among adults aged 18–49 years receiving treatment at the ART Centre, Chittoor. Participants were allocated into intervention and control groups using block randomization. The intervention group received integrated yoga training in addition to standard ART, while the control group received health education along with standard ART. The intervention continued for six months.
Methodology
- Participants: Adults living with HIV in Stage II disease.
- Duration: 6 months of yoga intervention with an overall study period of 18 months.
- Assessments: Conducted at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months.
- Parameters measured:
- CD4 Count
- Viral Load
- Body Mass Index (BMI)
- Lipid Profile
- HbA1c
- Quality of Life using the EQ-5D Scale
- Cost-effectiveness analysis
Expected Outcomes
The study aimed to generate evidence on whether regular yoga practice can:
- Improve immune status among people living with HIV.
- Enhance physical, mental, and social well-being.
- Reduce disease-related complications.
- Serve as a sustainable and cost-effective complementary therapy alongside antiretroviral treatment.
Research Significance
This ICMR-funded project represents an important contribution to integrative healthcare research by exploring the role of yoga in HIV management. The findings are expected to support evidence-based recommendations for incorporating holistic wellness interventions into HIV care programs and improving long-term health outcomes for people living with HIV.
Principal Investigators/Research Team
Kiranmayi Koni, Jayanthi Tarugu, Sirshendu Chaudhuri, Hema Kurugundla, Anusha Puthalapattu, KR John, and Silpa Chintham.
2. Feasibility study of the implementation of WHO’s electronic mental Health gap action program intervention guide (e-mhGAP -IG 2.0) by the primary health care workers in the delivery of mental health care for the child and adolescent mental/behavioural disorders (CMH) and substance use disorders (SUB) in rural Andhra Pradesh, India
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Background
Mental health disorders among children, adolescents, and individuals with substance use problems remain underdiagnosed and undertreated in rural India. The treatment gap for common mental disorders in India is estimated to be 75–95%, and many Primary Health Centres (PHCs) do not provide dedicated mental health services. To address this challenge, the study evaluates the feasibility and adaptability of the World Health Organization’s electronic Mental Health Gap Action Programme Intervention Guide (e-mhGAP-IG 2.0) for use by primary healthcare workers in rural settings.
About e-mHGAP-IG 2.0
The e-mhGAP-IG 2.0 is a digital clinical decision-support tool developed by the World Health Organization to assist non-specialist healthcare providers in identifying, assessing, and managing mental, neurological, and substance use disorders. The guide includes specific modules for Child and Adolescent Mental and Behavioural Disorders (CMH) and Substance Use Disorders (SUB), making mental healthcare more accessible at the primary care level.
Objectives
- To assess the feasibility and acceptability of implementing WHO’s e-mhGAP-IG 2.0 in rural primary healthcare settings.
- To evaluate the adaptability of the digital intervention guide among primary healthcare workers.
- To improve early identification and management of child and adolescent mental health disorders and substance use disorders.
- To examine the cost-effectiveness of integrating e-mhGAP-IG into routine primary healthcare services.
Methodology
- Study Design: Open-label Randomized Controlled Trial.
- Participants: Primary healthcare workers employed in PHCs and Sub-centres with at least one year of work experience and basic smartphone proficiency.
- Study Setting: Rural Primary Health Centres and Sub-centres in Chittoor District, Andhra Pradesh.
- Intervention: Training and implementation of the WHO e-mhGAP-IG 2.0 mobile application for mental healthcare delivery.
- Data Collection: Structured Case Report Forms (CRFs) and monitoring of healthcare service outcomes.
Analysis: Feasibility, usability, adoption, and cost-effectiveness assessments using standardized evaluation methods
Expected Outcomes
- Enhanced knowledge and confidence of primary healthcare workers in managing mental health conditions.
- Improved detection and referral of children and adolescents with mental and behavioural disorders.
- Strengthened management of substance use disorders at the community level.
- Increased accessibility of evidence-based mental healthcare services in rural areas.
- Development of a scalable digital model for integrating mental healthcare into primary healthcare systems.
Significance of the Study
This project addresses a critical public health need by leveraging digital technology to bridge the mental health treatment gap in rural communities. The findings will provide valuable evidence on the effectiveness of digital decision-support tools in primary healthcare and may support broader implementation of WHO-recommended mental health interventions across India. The study aligns with the goals of the National Mental Health Programme and contributes to strengthening community-based mental healthcare services.
Research Team
- Kiranmayi Koni, Jayanthi Tarugu, Sirshendu Chaudhuri, Muthuvenkatachalam Srinivasan, Krishna A. M.
3. Day Care Geriatric Mental Health Services through Social Prescription (An Innovative Model) by Primary Health Care Staff: A Randomized Control Trial at Community Centers, Chittoor District, Andhra Pradesh, India.
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Background
India’s elderly population is rapidly increasing, bringing greater challenges related to physical and mental health. Mental health issues such as depression, loneliness, anxiety, social isolation, and reduced quality of life are common among older adults but often remain unrecognized and untreated. This study explores an innovative Social Prescription Model, where primary healthcare staff connect elderly individuals with community-based mental health and well-being services through structured day care centers. The intervention aims to promote healthy ageing, social engagement, and improved quality of life.
Objectives
- To evaluate the effectiveness of day care geriatric mental health services on the quality of life of elderly individuals aged 60 years and above.
- To assess the impact of social prescription on physical, psychological, social, and emotional well-being.
- To identify barriers and facilitators in implementing community-based geriatric mental health services.
- To determine the cost-effectiveness and sustainability of the intervention for large-scale implementation.
Study Design
- Type of Study: Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT)
- Study Population: Elderly individuals aged 60 years and above residing in rural and urban communities of Chittoor District.
- Sample Size: 150 participants (75 intervention and 75 control participants).
- Duration: 36 months, including 6 months of intervention and 18 months of follow-up.
- Implementation Setting: Community-based Day Care Geriatric Mental Health Centers.
Intervention: Social Prescription Model
The intervention provides comprehensive geriatric mental health services through community day care centers managed with the support of primary healthcare staff, volunteers, and community resources.
Key components include:
- Physical activity and exercise sessions
- Relaxation and stress-management techniques
- Reminiscence and cognitive stimulation activities
- Social interaction and group engagement programs
- Recreational and cultural activities
- Spiritual and wellness practices
- Referral and linkage to healthcare and social support services when required
The program is designed to strengthen social connections, reduce isolation, and improve overall well-being among older adults.
Methodology
Participants undergo a comprehensive geriatric assessment and are enrolled in structured day care services based on identified needs. Follow-up assessments are conducted every two months to monitor progress, identify implementation challenges, and evaluate outcomes.
The study utilizes both quantitative and qualitative methods, including:
- WHOQOL-BREF Quality of Life Assessment
- Community-based needs assessment
- In-depth interviews
- Cost-benefit and cost-utility analysis
- Evaluation of implementation barriers and facilitators
Expected Outcomes
- Improved quality of life among elderly participants.
- Enhanced mental, physical, social, and emotional well-being.
- Reduced loneliness, social isolation, and psychological distress.
- Increased community participation and healthy ageing.
- Evidence for integrating social prescription into primary healthcare services.
- Development of a scalable and sustainable model for geriatric mental healthcare in India.
Significance of the Study
This innovative project addresses a critical gap in geriatric mental healthcare by integrating community resources, social support systems, and primary healthcare services. The findings are expected to provide evidence for policy development and the expansion of community-based geriatric mental health programs across India, promoting healthy and dignified aging.
Research Team
- Jayanthi Tarugu
- Kiranmayi Koni
- Sirshendu Chaudhuri
- K. R. John
- Krishna A. M.
Research Focus Areas
Geriatric Mental Health • Healthy Ageing • Social Prescription • Community Health Nursing • Primary Healthcare • Quality of Life Research • Public Health Innovation.
Integrated Comprehensive Training (ICT) Bundle for Anganwadi and Community Health Workers
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In Which way the workshop expected to contribute to the existing knowledge in the field?
Contribution to Existing Knowledge in the Biomedical Field
The Integrated Comprehensive Teaching (ICT) Bundle is an innovative and structured approach aimed at strengthening the competencies of Anganwadi Workers and Community Health Workers in key public health settings such as minor ailment management, oral hygiene, hand hygiene, and Basic Life Support (BLS). This workshop contributes to existing biomedical knowledge by addressing the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical implementation at the community level.
Globally, oral diseases affect 3.5 billion people, with childhood dental caries impacting over 520 million children. In India, the prevalence of dental caries is more than 54%, while minor ailments affect up to 96% of children. These statistics highlight the urgent need for effective, community-based interventions.
Hand hygiene, a fundamental infection prevention measure, remains inadequately practiced. Only 19% of people globally wash their hands with soap after using the toilet, contributing to infections such as diarrhoea and respiratory illnesses. In India, poor hand hygiene is responsible for over 100,000 child deaths annually. Training frontline health workers in proper hygiene practices can significantly reduce disease transmission.
The inclusion of Basic Life Support (BLS) training adds a critical emergency care component. With more than 3 million sudden cardiac deaths annually and survival rates decreasing by 7–10% with each minute of delay, early intervention is essential. Equipping community-level workers with BLS skills can improve emergency response and survival outcomes.
This workshop generates evidence on the feasibility and effectiveness of structured, skill-based training. It is expected to improve early identification and management of minor ailments, promote better hygiene practices, and enhance emergency preparedness. Overall, it provides a scalable model for strengthening primary healthcare and improving community health outcomes.
Expected Outcomes and Relevance to National, Regional, and Global Health Issues
The ICT Bundle is designed to enhance the knowledge, skills, and confidence of frontline health workers, enabling them to deliver timely and effective care at the community level.
National Level
This initiative supports the goals of India’s National Health Mission by strengthening primary healthcare, promoting preventive care, and reducing the burden on higher level healthcare facilities.
Regional Level
Particularly in underserved areas such as Chittoor District, Andhra Pradesh, the program builds healthcare capacity by improving skills in managing common illnesses, promoting hygiene, and ensuring better emergency preparedness.
Global Level
The initiative aligns with the World Health Organization’s vision for Universal Health Coverage by promoting accessible and community-based healthcare. It also supports key Sustainable Development Goals:
- SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): Improving access to essential healthcare services
- SDG 4 (Quality Education): Enhancing continuous learning and skill development
- SDG 5 (Gender Equality): Empowering women in the healthcare workforce
Conclusion
In conclusion, this workshop serves as a practical and scalable public health intervention that strengthens healthcare delivery systems, improves community health outcomes, and contributes to policy development at multiple levels.
