OR Adj Research Articles

The effects of the antecedent use of inhaled steroid on the clinical course of COVID-19: A retrospective study of asthmatic patients

BackgroundThere is conflicting evidence regarding the effect of asthma and its different therapeutic options on COVID-19 severity and the clinical outcomes. AimThis study aimed to investigate the relationship between using inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) by asthmatic patients and the severity of COVID-19. Materials and methodsThis retrospective observational study was conducted from March 15 to October 23, 2020 and included data of all COVID-19 asthmatic patients (n = 287) at King Abdulaziz Medical City. Twelve patients were excluded due to poor medication history documentation or using ICS for non-asthma indication. Ordinal logistic regression was used to determine the clinical variables that affect COVID-19 severity. The clinical outcomes of ICS and non-ICS users were compared. ResultsOf the sample (n = 275), 198 (72%) were using ICS therapy. No significant difference was found between ICS and non-ICS users in disease severity (P = 0.12), mortality (P = 0.45), ICU admission (P = 0.78), and the occurrence of complications. However, the number of days on ventilation were significantly increased in ICS users (P = 0.006). Being prescribed the ICS/LABA combination (adj OR: 0.72 [0.15,1.2]; P = 0.021), being hypertensive (adj OR: 0.98 [0.28,1.6]; P = 0.006), having cancer (adj OR: 1.49 [0.12, 2.8]; P = 0.033), or having diabetes (adj OR: 0.75 [0.09, 1.4]; P = 0.024) could not increase the risk for more severe disease. ConclusionOverall, ICS therapy did not alter the COVID-19 severity or mortality in asthmatic patients. The continued use of ICS during the pandemic should be encouraged to prevent asthma exacerbations.

Individualized blood pressure targets in the postoperative care of patients with intracerebral hemorrhage.

Recent guidelines recommend targeting a systolic blood pressure (SBP) < 140 mm Hg in the early management of patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). The optimal SBP targets for ICH patients after hematoma evacuation (HE) remain unclear. Here, the authors aimed to define the optimal SBP range based on multimodal neuromonitoring data. Forty poor-grade ICH patients who had undergone HE and then monitoring of intracerebral pressure, brain tissue oxygen tension (PbtO2), and cerebral metabolism (via cerebral microdialysis [CMD]) were prospectively included. Episodes of brain tissue hypoxia (BTH) (1-hour averaged PbtO2 < 20 mm Hg) and metabolic distress (CMD-lactate/pyruvate ratio [LPR] ≥ 40) were identified and linked to corresponding parameters of hemodynamic monitoring (SBP and cerebral perfusion pressure [CPP]). Multivariable regression analysis was performed using generalized estimating equations to identify associations between SBP levels, PbtO2, and brain metabolism. The mean patient age was 60 (range 51-66) years and the median [IQR] initial ICH volume was 47 [29-60] ml. In multivariable models adjusted for Glasgow Coma Scale score, probe location, ICH volume, and age, lower SBP was independently associated with a higher risk of BTH (≤ 120 mm Hg: adjusted OR 2.9, p = 0.007; 120-130 mm Hg: adj OR 2.4, p = 0.002; 130-140 mm Hg: adj OR 1.6, p = 0.017) compared to a reference range of 140-150 mm Hg at the level of the foramen interventriculare Monroi, which corresponded to a CPP of 70-80 mm Hg and SBP levels between 150 and 160 mm Hg at the heart level. After exclusion of episodes with mitochondrial dysfunction, SBP targets < 140 mm Hg were associated with higher odds of cerebral metabolic distress (≤ 130 mm Hg: OR 2.5, p = 0.041; 130-140 mm Hg: OR 2.3, p = 0.033). Patients with a modified Rankin Scale score ≥ 5 at neurological ICU discharge more often exhibited BTH than patients with better outcomes (51% vs 10%, p = 0.003). These data suggest that lower SPB and CPP levels are associated with a higher risk for BTH. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether a higher SPB target may prevent BTH and improve outcomes.

DETERMINANTS OF NEONATAL MORTALITY BASED ON THE 2017 INDONESIAN DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEY (IDHS)

ABSTRACTInfant mortality is still a major health problem in Indonesia as 63% of deaths occur in the neonatal period. The trend of the neonatal mortality rate in Indonesia has decreased from 15 (2017) to 13 deaths per 1,000 live births (2018), but this does not meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) target. Evidence-based health interventions are based on determinants that most influences neonatal mortality. The purpose of this study was to determine the most influential determinants of neonatal mortality in Indonesia. This research is an analytic observational study that uses the 2017 Indonesian Demographic and Health Survey (IDHS) data, with a cross-sectional design. This study’s population was the last baby of married women of childbearing age (15-49 years) and was recorded in the 2017 IDHS with a sample of 15,102 babies. The outcome variable in this study was neonatal mortality. The analysis was conducted in stages, namely univariate analysis, bivariate analysis using the chi-square statistical test (X2), and multivariate analysis using logistic regression. The results showed that 85.71% of deaths occurred in the early neonatal period. The most influential determinants of neonatal mortality were male sex (adj OR = 2.91: 95% CI 1.78-4.76), low birth weight (adj OR = 12.08: 95% CI 7.38-18.86) and parity status ≥ 4 (adj OR = 2.11: 95% CI 1.22-3.61). Public health interventions aimed at reducing neonatal mortality should be linked to newborn and maternal characteristics that significantly influence Indonesia's neonatal mortality. Therefore, health services must consider adequate postpartum neonatal care that is fully integrated with medical care. Moreover, further prevention of potential factors that cause low birth weight before conception should be implemented and further control of births would optimize the family planning program. Keywords: gender, low birth weight, parity status, determinant, neonatal mortality, Indonesia

Efek Samping Terapi Antiretroviral dan Kepatuhan Berobat Penderita HIV/AIDS

&lt;p&gt;Antiretroviral treatment side-effects and patient compliance with medical instructions continue to be a growing challenge for HIV/AIDS patients. Arv therapy has resulted in a substantial intervention that has been successful in preventing transmission and opportunistic infection. The main objective of this study was to analyze the association between side-effects of ARV therapy and medication adherence as well as another potential confounding such as opportunistic infection, family support, stress level, knowledge of ARV, marital status, and occupation. This study is a quantitative approach by using cross-sectional methods. A total of 244 respondents from 1.180 patients with confirmed HIV registered in the Care Support and Treatment (CST) service and Sriwijaya Community in the City of Palembang to respond to the survey. Non-random sampling was used to collect the samples. As the result, the majority of the respondents were male (84,43 %), ≥30 years old (57,4%), and secondary school graduates (52%). After adjusting with stress and opportunistic infection variable, a Multivariate regression analysis revealed a positive relationship between side effects and medication adherence (p-value of 0,041; 0,05), OR Adj 2,131 (1,190-4,988). PLHV who had adverse effects had a 2.131 times worse adherence rate than those who did not. In conclusion, medication adherence must be greatly improved in light of therapeutic side effects, stress levels, and opportunistic infection.&lt;/p&gt;

Impact of socio-economic factors on Tuberculosis treatment outcomes in north-eastern Uganda: a mixed methods study

BackgroundTuberculosis (TB) is a major public health problem and at 48%, Karamoja in North-Eastern Uganda has the lowest treatment success rate nationally. Addressing the social determinants of TB is crucial to ending TB. This study sought to understand the extent and ways in which socio-economic factors affect TB treatment outcomes in Karamoja.MethodsWe conducted a convergent parallel mixed methods study in 10 TB Diagnostic and Treatment Units. The study enrolled former TB patients diagnosed with drug-susceptible TB between April 2018 and March 2019. Unit TB and laboratory registers were reviewed to identify pre-treatment losses to follow-up. Four focus group discussions with former TB patients and 18 key informant interviews with healthcare workers were conducted. Principle component analysis was used to generate wealth quintiles that were compared to treatment outcomes using the proportion test. The association between sociodemographic characteristics and TB treatment outcomes was evaluated using the chi-square test and multiple logistic regression.ResultsA total of 313 participants were randomly selected from 1184 former TB patients recorded in the unit TB registers. Of these, 264 were contacted in the community and consented to join the study: 57% were male and 156 (59.1%) participants had unsuccessful treatment outcomes. The wealthiest quintile had a 58% reduction in the risk of having an unsuccessful treatment outcome (adj OR = 0.42, 95% CI 0.18–0.99, p = 0.047). People who were employed in the informal sector (adj OR = 4.71, 95% CI 1.18–18.89, p = 0.029) and children under the age of 15 years who were not in school or employed (adj OR = 2.71, 95% CI 1.11–6.62, p = 0.029) had significantly higher odds of unsuccessful treatment outcome. Analysis of the pre-treatment loss to follow-up showed that 17.2% of patients with pulmonary bacteriologically confirmed TB did not initiate treatment with a higher proportion among females (21.7%) than males (13.5%). Inadequate food, belonging to migratory communities, stigma, lack of social protection, drug stock-outs and transport challenges affected TB treatment outcomes.ConclusionsThis study confirmed that low socio-economic status is associated with poor TB treatment outcomes emphasizing the need for multi- and cross-sectoral approaches and socio-economic enablers to optimise TB care.

Risk Factors, Lifestyle and Prevention among Adolescents with Idiopathic Juvenile Scoliosis: A Cross Sectional Study in Eleven First-Grade Secondary Schools of Palermo Province, Italy.

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) has an incidence of 2–3% in the general population and a multifactorial etiology. The present study aims to analyze modifiable risk factors and their interactions in the development of AIS in order to increase knowledge about the disease and to prevent the evolution of AIS in young students with tailored public health strategies. A cross-sectional study was conducted over two consecutive school years among students attending 11 first-grade secondary schools in the province of Palermo, Italy. A self-administered questionnaire that investigated socio-demographical, physical and anamnestic characteristics and habits, focusing on possible risk factors associated with idiopathic scoliosis, was administered. In addition, a clinical evaluation was performed with Adams’ test and Bunnel’s inclinometer. Suspected AIS cases were associated with the practice of high-risk sports (p < 0.05), weekly physical activity lasting ≥3 h (p < 0.05), lower back pain (p < 0.001), posture disorders (p < 0.01) and having had no contact with a physician (p < 0.01). Practice of high-risk sports (adj OR = 1.83; CI 95% 1.11–4.76) and suffering of posture disorders (adj OR = 1.67; CI 95% 1.12–3.60) showed a significant association with a confirmed diagnosis of AIS (Cobb angle ≥ 10° at X-ray). The risk factors associated with AIS are still unclear. Therefore, it is crucial to identify early modifiable and multiple risk factors to prevent the evolution of scoliosis in school-age children.

Abstract 9399: A Targeted Proteomic Approach Identifies Novel Biomarkers Associated With Risk of Myocardial Infarction in Post-Menopausal Women

Introduction: There may be unique pathways that contribute to heart disease in women. We used proteomics to evaluate the association between a panel of biomarkers and risk of incident MI in post-menopausal women and thus to inform risk prediction and potential disease biology. Methods: We analyzed 184 candidate biomarkers (Olink CVD II/III) in LOFT, a randomized trial of an osteoporosis drug in post-menopausal women. Cases and controls without prevalent CV disease were matched by age and follow-up time (123 MI cases, 123 controls). A Benjamini-Hochberg correction was applied for false discovery (adj P value &lt;0.05). Conditional logistic regression was adjusted for the ACC/AHA pooled cohort equations (PCE). Results: 16 biomarkers assessed at baseline were associated with incident MI at the FDR threshold (Fig). After multivariable adjustment, 8 markers remained significantly associated with incident MI, including BNP (adj OR per SD 2.52, 95% CI 1.49-4.28), NT-proBNP (adj OR 2.41, 95% CI 1.43-4.08) and metalloproteinases including MMP-2 (adj OR 1.86, 95% CI 1.08-3.22) and MMP-12 (adj OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.02-2.37; Fig). Network analyses suggested these markers were overall strongly concentrated in pathways of inflammation, cellular movement and immune cell trafficking. Conclusions: A targeted proteomic approach identified markers of inflammation and immune cell trafficking as predictors of MI in post-menopausal women independent of traditional risk markers. Metalloproteinases, markers of plaque rupture and erosion, may provide insights into plaque biology and atherogenesis in women and warrant further investigation.

Abstract 10527: Clinical Characteristics and Cardiovascular Outcomes of Atrial Fibrillation (af) with Coexisting Left Bundle Branch Block (lbbb)-Analyses from National Inpatient Sample (2013-2014)

Introduction: Left bundle branch block (LBBB) because of dyssynchrony is a risk factor for heart failure (HF). We evaluated the baseline characteristics and comparative outcomes of atrial fibrillation (AF) patients with co-existing LBBB. Hypothesis: AF with concomitant LBBB is associated with poor cardiovascular outcomes. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of hospitalizations for AF with and without LBBB from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) between 2013 and 2014. Billing codes (International classification of diseases, 9th revision) were used to identify the target population. Results: A total of 1,531,704 hospitalizations for AF were identified, out of these, 1,496,742 hospitalizations had no LBBB and 34,952 hospitalizations had LBBB. AF with LBBB cohort was older with mean age (77.8 vs 75.3, p &lt;0.001), had slightly lower proportion of females (48.4% vs 48.9%, p &lt;0.04), higher proportion of white race (85.2% vs 82.3%, p &lt;0.001) and had a statistically significant higher disease burden including hypertension (73.3% vs 70.2%, p &lt;0.001), diabetes mellitus (27% vs 26.3%, p &lt;0.001), ischemic heart disease (58% vs 43.3%, p &lt;0.001), peripheral arterial disease (8% vs 6.9%, p &lt;0.001), congestive HF (59% vs 40.7%, p &lt;0.001) and tobacco use (27.8% vs 27%, p 0.001) when compared to AF without LBBB cohort. AF with LBBB had worse inpatient cardiovascular outcomes including cardiogenic shock (adj OR 1.81, CI 1.68-1.96), cardiac arrest (adj OR 1.71, CI 1.58-1.84), ventricular arrhythmias (adj OR 2.05, CI 21.97-2.12) and complete AV block (adj OR 3.36, CI 3.11-3.65). Conclusions: LBBB is a poor prognostic indicator in patients admitted for AF and is associated with worse cardiovascular outcomes. Aggressive management of AF in patients with LBBB may improve the clinical outcomes. Further clinical studies are required to study this relationship.

Abstract 9393: A Genetic Risk Score to Predict Peripheral Artery Disease and Acute Limb Ischemia in Patients With Cardiometabolic Disease

Introduction: GWAS have identified SNPs associated with an increased risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD). We sought to compare the performance of a genetic risk score (GRS) comprised of these SNPs with established clinical risk factors to predict PAD and acute limb ischemia (ALI) across five RCTs in cardiometabolic disease. Given high prevalence of coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with PAD, we also evaluated the performance of the GRS for incident myocardial infarction (MI). Methods: Pts from the ENGAGE AF-TIMI 48, SOLID-TIMI 52, SAVOR-TIMI 53, PEGASUS-TIMI 54, and FOURIER trials were included in this analysis. ALI and MI were adjudicated by a blinded CEC comprised of vascular medicine specialists and cardiologists. A previously validated GRS ( Nature Medicine 2019) of 19 SNPs associated with PAD was calculated for each pt. ORs for PAD were calculated across genetic risk groups. HRs adjusted for clinical risk factors were calculated for ALI and incident MI. Results: Of 51,729 total pts included in this analysis, 5,149 (10%) had PAD at baseline. Pts in the top 20% of GRS had 47% higher odds of having PAD compared with those in the bottom 20% (adj OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.33-1.62; p&lt;0.001). The magnitude of risk for PAD conferred by high GRS was similar to many established clinical risk factors (Figure). A total of 91 ALI events occurred over a median follow-up of 2.4 years. Pts in the top 20% of GRS were at 63% increased risk for ALI compared with those in the bottom 80% (adj HR 1.63, 95% CI 1.04-2.56.; p=0.03), consistent in those with and without PAD (p-interaction 0.85). The PAD GRS was also associated with incident MI (n=2323), with pts in the top 20% of GRS at 42% increased risk compared with the bottom 80% (adj HR 1.42, 95% CI 1.36-1.49; p&lt;0.001). Conclusions: A 19-SNP GRS was a strong independent predictor of PAD and ALI in patients with cardiometabolic disease. The PAD GRS also predicted MI, supporting overlapping biological mechanisms for atherosclerosis across vascular beds.

Association of smoking status with hospitalisation for COVID-19 compared with other respiratory viruses a year previous: a case-control study at a single UK National Health Service trust

Background: It is unclear whether smoking increases the risk of COVID-19 hospitalisation. We first examined the association of smoking status with hospitalisation for COVID-19 compared with hospitalisation for other respiratory viral infections a year previous. Second, we examined the concordance between smoking status recorded on the electronic health record (EHR) and the contemporaneous medical notes. Methods: This case-control study enrolled adult patients (446 cases and 211 controls) at a single National Health Service trust in London, UK. The outcome variable was type of hospitalisation (COVID-19 vs. another respiratory virus a year previous). The exposure variable was smoking status (never/former/current smoker). Logistic regression analyses adjusted for age, sex, socioeconomic position and comorbidities were performed. The study protocol and analyses were pre-registered in April 2020 on the Open Science Framework. Results: Current smokers had lower odds of being hospitalised with COVID-19 compared with other respiratory viruses a year previous (OR adj=0.55, 95% CI=0.31-0.96, p=.04). There was no significant association among former smokers (OR adj=1.08, 95% CI=0.72-1.65, p=.70). Smoking status recorded on the EHR (compared with the contemporaneous medical notes) was incorrectly recorded for 168 (79.6%) controls (χ 2(3)=256.5, p=<0.001) and 60 cases (13.5%) (χ 2(3)=34.2, p=<0.001). Conclusions: In a single UK hospital trust, current smokers had reduced odds of being hospitalised with COVID-19 compared with other respiratory viruses a year previous, although it is unclear whether this association is causal. Targeted post-discharge recording of smoking status may account for the greater EHR-medical notes concordance observed in cases compared with controls.

Premedication with Hydrocortisone Increases Risk of Adverse Drug Events and Return to Medical Care Among Pediatric Patients with ITP Treated with IVIG

Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) is one of the most common acquired bleeding disorders affecting children. While 75-80% of these children will develop only mild bleeding symptoms, others can experience more severe bleeding, including rare intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), and may require platelet-directed therapy. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), a commonly utilized and effective first-line therapy, may be associated with adverse drug events (ADEs). The most commonly reported ADEs include headache (approximately 30% of treated patients) and nausea/vomiting, however the exact rates of these events and relationship to premedication strategies are poorly classified. These ADEs often result in emergent medical evaluation and additional diagnostic testing, including computed tomography (CT) of the head, to evaluate for ICH in children with severe thrombocytopenia.In order to identify rates of IVIG-associated ADEs and subsequent emergent medical evaluations in pediatric patients with ITP, we completed an retrospective observational cohort study of all pediatric patients with ITP who were treated with one-time IVIG infusion utilizing Gamunex-C ® 10% at a dose of 1g/kg across 4 large pediatric centers from 2010 to 2019. Included patients were between the ages of 0 and 21 years.Among the 563 patients receiving single IVIG infusions across all 4 centers, patients reported headache, nausea/vomiting, or both following 203 infusions (36%). Excluding those patients who remained hospitalized at the time of symptom development, 16% (84 of 513) of all patients returned for urgent medical evaluation following IVIG infusion. Nine percent of all patients receiving a single IVIG infusion underwent head CT to rule out ICH. All 51 CTs were negative for ICH.In order to determine if specific patient characteristics were associated with the development of IVIG-associated ADEs and return to medical care, univariable logistic regression was performed. Multiple logistic regression was used to determine whether the associations identified in the univariable analysis persisted after adjusting for other significant factors. Older age at administration (Adjusted Odds Ratio [adj OR] 1.07 for each additional year of age; 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 1.03, 1.11; p<0.001) and premedication with hydrocortisone (adj OR 2.36; 95% CI 1.38, 4.07; p=0.002) were associated with increased odds of IVIG-associated ADEs. Patients who received premedication with hydrocortisone were more likely to re-present for medical evaluation than patients who did not receive hydrocortisone (OR 1.90; 95% CI 0.98, 3.54; p=0.049). No associations were identified between ADEs and gender, race/ethnicity, premedication with diphenhydramine or ondansetron, pre-treatment serum IgG levels, or concurrent glucocorticoid administration.In summary, the rate of ADEs among pediatric patients with ITP treated with IVIG is remarkably high. Thirty-six percent of patients in our multi-institutional cohort reported headache, nausea/vomiting, or both following single IVIG infusion, consistent with our previous single institution experience. This again highlights the need for proper balance of risks and benefits when considering treatment for children with ITP. Patients who received premedication with acetaminophen were less likely to develop IVIG-associated ADEs, but those who received premedication with diphenhydramine or concurrent glucocorticoid therapy were no more or less likely to develop ADEs. Interestingly, however, patients who received premedication with hydrocortisone were more likely to develop IVIG-associated ADEs. Despite only a small subset of our cohort being premedicated with hydrocortisone (12%, n=66), this premedication strategy was significantly associated with an increased rate of return to medical care following IVIG infusion. Patients returning for emergent medical evaluation frequently underwent repeat laboratory studies or CT imaging, resulting in unnecessary radiation exposure and increased healthcare-related costs. These findings will help to inform IVIG premedication strategies in an attempt to reduce both ADEs and re-presentation to medical care among pediatric patients with ITP receiving IVIG therapy. [Display omitted] DisclosuresKirk: Biomarin: Honoraria. Grace: Novartis: Research Funding; Principia: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Dova: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Agios: Research Funding. Neunert: Novartis: Research Funding. Lambert: Bayer: Consultancy; ClinGen, ISTH, ASH, GW University: Honoraria; Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Astra Zeneca: Research Funding; Argenx: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Principia: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Dova: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Shionogi: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Rigel: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; PDSA: Research Funding; Sysmex: Research Funding; Octapharma: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. Despotovic: UpToDate: Patents & Royalties: Royalties; Apellis: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy, Research Funding; Agios: Consultancy.

Effectiveness of offering tailored text message, self-help smoking cessation support to pregnant women who want information on stopping smoking: MiQuit3 randomised controlled trial and meta-analysis.

To test the efficacy of 'MiQuit', a tailored, self-help, text message stop smoking programme for pregnancy, as an adjunct to usual care (UC) for smoking cessation in pregnancy. Multicentre, open, two-arm, parallel-group, superiority randomised controlled trial (RCT) and a trial sequential analysis (TSA) meta-analysis combining trial findings with two previous ones. Twenty-four English hospital antenatal clinics. A total of 1002 pregnant women who were ≥16 years old, were ≤25 weeks gestation and smoked ≥1 daily cigarette and accepted information on cessation with no requirement to set quit dates. UC or UC plus 'MiQuit': 12 weeks of tailored, smoking cessation text messages focussed on inducing and aiding cessation. Primary outcome: biochemically validated cessation between 4weeks after randomisation and late pregnancy. shorter and non-validated abstinence periods, pregnancy outcomes and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios. RCT: cessation was 5.19% (26/501) and 4.59% (23/501) in MiQuit and UC groups (adjusted odds ratio [adj OR] for quitting with MiQuit versus UC, 95% CI = 1.15 [0.65-2.04]); other abstinence findings were similar, with higher point estimates. Primary outcome ascertainment was 61.7% (309) and 67.3% (337) in MiQuit and UC groups with 71.1% (54/76) and 69.5% (41/59) abstinence validation rates, respectively. Pregnancy outcomes were similar and the incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year was -£1118 (95% CI = -£4806-£1911). More MiQuit group women reported making at least one quit attempt (adj OR [95% CI]) for making an attempt, 1.50 (1.07-2.09). TSA meta-analysis: this found no significant difference in prolonged abstinence between MiQuit and UC (pooled OR = 1.49, adjusted 95% CI = 0.62-3.60). Irrespective of whether they want to try quitting, when offered a tailored, self-help, text message stop smoking programme for pregnancy (MiQuit) as an adjunct to usual care, pregnant women are not more likely to stop smoking until childbirth but they report more attempts at stopping smoking.

MARKETING, HEALTH LITERACY, AND THE USE OF MELASMA AND FRECKLE PREVENTION AND TREATMENT PRODUCTS

The research goals of this study were to identify the association between marketing and health literacy and the use of products to prevent and treat melasma and freckles among working-age women in northeast Thailand. One thousand one hundred forty-three working-age women were randomly selected using multistage sampling from 4 provinces in northeast Thailand to participate in a self-administered structured questionnaire. A generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) evaluated the associations between product use and the studied factors. The majority of respondents (59.49%; 95% CI = 50.09 – 62.33) were current users of these products. Factors associated with product use were adequate to excellent health literacy (adj OR = 2.88, 95% CI = 2.51-3.42, p &lt; 0.001), product marketing (adj OR = 2.20, 95% CI = 1.59-2.84, p &lt; 0.001), presence of freckles (adj OR = 2.17, 95% CI = 1.53-2.79, p &lt; 0.001), and melasma (adj OR = 2.05: 95%CI = 1.52-2.67, p &lt; 0.001). The other significant covariates were age 30-44 years (adj OR = 2.40, 95% CI = 1.78-2.81, p &lt; 0.001), having a bachelor’s degree or higher (adj. OR = 2.03, 95%CI = 1.61-2.11, p 0.005), and average monthly income &gt; 15,000 THB (adj. OR = 2.08, 95% CI = 1.60-2.91, p &lt; 0.001). About sixty percent of working-age women were current users of melasma and freckle prevention/treatment products. Health literacy and product marketing were positively associated with product use. Other associated factors were facial skin conditions, age, education level, and income. The study findings provide pertinent information to policymakers and the community about implementing educational health literacy programs.

Cognitive frailty is a robust predictor of falls, injuries, and disability among community-dwelling older adults

BackgroundCognitive frailty, a combination of physical frailty and cognitive impairment, is associated with functional decline in older adults. However, there is limited information if cognitive frailty predicts the incidence of falls, injuries, and disability. In this study, we aimed to determine the ability of cognitive frailty in predicting the incidence of falls, injuries and disability among multi-ethnic older adults in Malaysia at 5 years follow-up.MethodsIn this prospective cohort study, a total of 400 participants aged 60 years and above were successfully followed up at 5 years. Participants’ socio-demographic, medical history, psycho-social, physical, cognitive and dietary intake information was obtained. Cognitive frailty was defined as comorbid physical frailty (> 1 Fried criteria) and mild cognitive impairment (Petersen criteria). Univariate analysis was performed for all variables, followed by hierarchical binary logistic regression (BLR) analysis to identify the ability of CF in predicting the incidence of falls, injuries, and disability. The significant value was set at p < 0.05.ResultsCognitive frailty was found to be associated with greater risk of adverse consequences after adjusting for covariates. Both cognitive frailty (Adjusted Odd ratio (Adj OR) = 2.98, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.78–4.99, p < 0.05) and physical frailty (Adj OR = 2.88, 95% CI: 1.19–6.99, p < 0.05) were significant predictors of incidence of falls. Risk of injuries was also significantly increased with the presence of cognitive frailty (Adj OR = 3.06, 95% CI: 1.23–7.60, p < 0.05) and physical frailty (Adj OR = 3.04, 95% CI: 1.75–5.28, p < 0.05). In addition, cognitive frailty (Adj OR = 5.17, 95% CI: 1.11–24.21, p < 0.05) and physical frailty (Adj OR = 4.99, 95% CI: 1.11–22.57, p < 0.05) were shown to significantly predict the incidence of disability among older adults.ConclusionCognitive frailty is a robust predictor of falls, injuries, and disability in older adults. Possible early multi-domain preventive and management strategies of cognitive frailty that contribute to adverse consequences are required to decrease further functional decline and promote independence in older adults.

Adverse childhood experiences and substance misuse in young people in India: results from the multisite cVEDA cohort

BackgroundAdverse childhood experiences (ACEs) increases vulnerability to externalising disorders such as substance misuse. The study aims to determine the prevalence of ACEs and its association with substance misuse.MethodsData from the Consortium on Vulnerability to Externalising Disorders and Addictions (cVEDA) in India was used (n = 9010). ACEs were evaluated using the World Health Organisation (WHO) Adverse Childhood Experiences International Questionnaire whilst substance misuse was assessed using the WHO Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test. A random-effects, two-stage individual patient data meta-analysis explained the associations between ACEs and substance misuse with adjustments for confounders such as sex and family structure.Results1 in 2 participants reported child maltreatment ACEs and family level ACEs. Except for sexual abuse, males report more of every individual childhood adversity and are more likely to report misusing substances compared with females (87.3% vs. 12.7%). In adolescents, family level ACEs (adj OR 4.2, 95% CI 1.5–11.7) and collective level ACEs (adj OR 6.6, 95% CI 1.4–31.1) show associations with substance misuse whilst in young adults, child level ACEs such as maltreatment show similar strong associations (adj OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.1–3.5).ConclusionACEs such as abuse and domestic violence are strongly associated with substance misuse, most commonly tobacco, in adolescent and young adult males in India. The results suggest enhancing current ACE resilience programmes and ‘trauma-informed’ approaches to tackling longer-term impact of ACEs in India.FundingNewton Bhabha Grant jointly funded by the Medical Research Council, UK (MR/N000390/1) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR/MRC-UK/3/M/2015-NCD-I).

Association of childhood tracheomalacia with bronchiectasis: a case–control study

ObjectiveChildren with tracheomalacia can develop chronic lower airway infection and neutrophilic inflammation. It is plausible children with tracheomalacia are at increased risk of developing bronchiectasis. We hypothesised that compared with...

Combined assessment of tuberculosis case notification rate and infection control at health facilities of Dale districts, Sidama Zone, Southern Ethiopia.

BackgroundMycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) is the deadliest disease that claims millions of deaths globally. Ethiopia is among the countries heavily hit by the disaster. Despite the effective directly observed treatment and TB infection control (TBIC) measures provided by the world health organization (WHO), the rate of new cases increased daily throughout the country. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at highest risk serving without having the necessary facility in place while overcrowding of patients exacerbated TB transmission. The study aimed to assess TBIC implementation and analyze case notification rate (CNR) of smear-positive pulmonary TB in the selected health facilities at Dale district, Sidama Zone, Southern Ethiopia.MethodsSeven health care facilities have been visited in the study area and smear-positive pulmonary TB notification rate was determined retrospectively during the years 2012 to 2014. Data on smear positive test results and demographic characteristics were collected from the TB unit registries. A structured questionnaire, facility survey, and observation checklists were used to assess the presence of TBIC plans at the health care facilities.ResultsThe overall case notification rate of smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis was 5.3% among all 7696 TB suspected patients. The odds of being diagnosed with smear-positive TB were 24% more in males than in females (adj OR = 1.24, 95% CI: (1.22, 1.55). Moreover, in the study area, only 28% of the facilities have been practiced TB infection control and 71% of the facilities assigned a focal person for the TBIC plan. The implementation of environmental control measures in the facilities was ranged between 16–83%. N95 particulate respirators were found only in 14% of the facilities.ConclusionTB CNR in Dale district was low. Moreover, implementations of TBIC in Dale district health facilities were poor when the survey was done. Hence, urgent measures should be taken to reverse the burden of TB.

Characteristics of patients with cancer in European long-term care facilities

PurposeUp to 26% of residents in nursing homes (NHs) are affected by cancer. Their care represents a challenge, because NHs are not usually considered a setting focused on oncologic management and care. The aim of this paper is to describe socio-demographic and clinical features of patients with cancer residing in European NHs.MethodsCross-sectional study based on data from the Services and Health for Elderly in Long TERm care (SHELTER) study. Participants were assessed through the interRAI-LTCF, which includes cancer assessment.ResultsAmong 4140 participants (mean age 83.4 years; female 73%), 442 (10.7%) had cancer. Patients with cancer had a higher prevalence of do-not-resuscitate directives compared to those without cancer (21.1% vs 16.5%, p = 0.019). Variables directly associated with cancer were male sex (adj OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.36–2.05), pain (adj OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.16–1.77), fatigue (adj OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.01–1.55), polypharmacy (adj OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.21–2.08) and falls (adj OR. 1.30, 95% CI 1.01–1.67). Dementia was inversely associated with cancer (adj OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.58–0.94). Symptomatic drugs such as opioids (23.5% vs 12.2, p < .001), NSAIDS (7.2% vs 3.9%, p = 0.001), antidepressants (39.1% vs 33.8%, p = 0.026) and benzodiazepines (40.3% vs 34.3, p = 0.012) were all prescribed more in participants with cancer compared to those without cancer.ConclusionsCancer patients are prevalent in European NHs and they show peculiar characteristics. Studies are needed to evaluate the impact of a supportive care approach on the management of NHs residents with cancer throughout all its phases, until the end-of-life care

Use of the Internet and Digital Devices Among People With Severe Mental Ill Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic Restrictions.

Background: Restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic have led to everyday reliance on digitalisation of life, including access to health care services. People with severe mental ill health (SMI—e.g., bipolar or psychosis spectrum disorders) are at greater risk for digital exclusion and it is unknown to what extent they adapted to online service delivery. This study explored use of the Internet and digital devices during the pandemic restrictions and its association with physical and mental health changes.Methods: Three hundred sixty seven adults with an SMI diagnosis completed a survey (online or offline) and provided information on access to Internet connexion and devices, internet knowledge, online activities, and barriers to using the Internet. They also self-reported changes in mental and physical health since the beginning of the pandemic restrictions.Results: During the pandemic restrictions 61.6% were limited or non-users of the Internet. The majority had access to the Internet and digital devices but around half reported knowledge deficits. Most common activities were accessing information and entertainment (88.9%), staying in touch with friends and families (84.8%), and purchasing goods (other than food) (84.3%). Most common barriers were finding the Internet “not interesting” (28.3%) or “too difficult” (27.9%), as well as “security concerns” (22.1–24.3%). Using the Internet “a lot” (vs. “just a bit or not at all”) during the pandemic was associated with younger age (18–30: Adj ORs 4.76; 31–45: 6.39; Ps < 0.001; vs. 66+), having a diagnosis of bipolar disorder (compared to psychosis; Adj OR = 3.88, P < 0.001), or reporting a decline in mental health (compared to no decline; Adj OR = 1.92, P = 0.01).Conclusion: Most people with SMI were limited or non-users of the Internet during the pandemic, which seems to be mainly attributable to lack of interest and skills, rather than lack of devices or connectivity. Older adults with psychosis should be the focus of interventions to support digital engagement in people with SMI.

Associations between gaming disorder, parent-child relationship, parental supervision, and discipline styles: Findings from a school-based survey during the COVID-19 pandemic in Vietnam.

Background and aimsVietnam implemented numerous measures to reduce the transmission of COVID-19 among school students, including study-at-home/self-quarantine. During the study-at-home period, adolescents may engage in more video gaming than usual, potentially contributing to gaming disorder. However, the regionally-representative prevalence of gaming disorder and its association with parenting practice and discipline practice have not been described. We assessed the prevalence of gaming disorder among Vietnamese adolescents during the initial 6 months of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associations between gaming disorder and parenting practice and discipline practice.MethodsWe conducted a school-based, self-administered cross-sectional survey of 2,084 students in Hanoi, Vietnam (response rate = 97.1%). The survey included standardized instruments translated from English to Vietnamese. We performed multilevel logistic regressions to assess the associations between parenting practice, discipline practice, and gaming disorder.ResultsThe prevalence of gaming disorder among the respondents was 11.6%. Healthy parent-child relationship was protective against gaming disorder (Adj OR = 0.36; 95% CI = 0.21, 0.62). Non-supervision, non-discipline, violent discipline were positively associated with gaming disorder.Discussion and ConclusionsWe found associations between gaming disorder and parent-child relationship, parental supervision, and parental discipline. Future interventional studies should consider assessing the effect of fostering healthy parent-child relationships and appropriate discipline on the occurrence or prognosis of gaming disorders.