Chronic Medical Comorbidities Research Articles

Chronic idiopathic urinary retention: Comorbidity and outcome in 102 individuals

ObjectivesChronic Idiopathic urinary retention is poorly understood. One small study suggests higher than expected rates of functional neurological disorder and pain comorbidity which may have implications for understanding the disorder. We investigated the frequency of functional neurological disorder, chronic pain other medical and psychiatric comorbidity, triggers of urinary retention, results of urodynamic assessment, medication history, management, and outcome in patients with chronic idiopathic urinary retention. MethodsA consecutive retrospective electronic notes analysis was undertaken of patients with chronic idiopathic urinary retention presenting to a secondary care urology clinic between Jan 2018-Jan 2021, with follow-up to their most recent urological appointment. Results102 patients were identified (mean age of 41.9 years, 98% female). 25% had functional neurological disorder (n = 26), most commonly limb weakness (n = 19, 19%) and functional seizures (n = 16, 16%). Chronic pain (n = 58, 57%) was a common comorbidity. Surgical and medical riggers to urinary retention were found in almost half of patients (n = 49, 48%). 81% of patients underwent urodynamic assessment (n = 83). Most frequently no specific abnormality was reported (n = 30, 29%). Hypertonic urethral sphincter was the most identified urodynamic abnormality (n = 17, 17%). We noted high levels of opioid (n = 50, 49%) and benzodiazepine (n = 27, 26%) use. Urinary retention resolved in only a small number of patients (n = 6, 6%, median follow up 54 months), in three cases spontaneously. ConclusionThis preliminary data suggests idiopathic urinary retention is commonly comorbid with functional neurological disorder, and chronic pain, suggesting shared mechanisms.

Clinical Characteristics and Treatment Outcomes of Prurigo Nodularis: A Retrospective Study.

Prurigo nodularis (PN) is a complex chronic skin disease characterized by severe pruritic nodules. PN is often associated with mental health disorders and chronic medical comorbidities. Until recently, PN treatment has been challenging and difficult. This study aims to describe the demographic, clinical characteristics, and comorbidities associated with PN. Also, we aim to describe the effectiveness of systemic therapies, including methotrexate, cyclosporine, and narrow band ultraviolet (NB-UVB) in adult patients with PN. This is a retrospective chart review of adult patients diagnosed with PN at Hamilton Health Science Center and/or McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, between 2015 and 2023. The study included 81 patients (57% female). The mean age was 52.8 years, and the mean age of PN diagnosis was 50 years. Reported symptoms included: itching (100%), dry skin (53%), pain (17%), and burning sensation (5%). Lower and upper extremities were the most common areas involved in 93% and 69%, respectively. Mental health disorders were present in 79% of patients, with depression (58%) and anxiety (52%) being the most common. Atopic dermatitis was the most common skin comorbidity noted. Treatments used included cyclosporine, and NB-UVB, and MTX, which resulted in significant improvement of pruritus in 38%, 35%, and 31% of patients, respectively, at week 16. PN is associated with increased risk of mental health disorders and other medical comorbidities. Cyclosporine, methotrexate, and NB-UVB therapy may be effective treatment options, however clinicians must consider the potential short- and long-term adverse effects of these treatments.

Factors affecting depression among married adults: a gender-based household cross-sectional study

BackgroundDepression is a common mental health problem all over the world including Bangladesh. World Health Organization included it in the Mental Health Gap Action Programme as one of its priority conditions. Research on this issue is scanty in Bangladesh. Therefore, we designed to a gender-based household study on associated factors of depression among married adults in Rajshahi City of Bangladesh.MethodsWe conducted this household cross-sectional study from August 01 to October 31, 2019. A total of 708 married adults currently living together in Rajshahi City were recruited for this study. We applied a multi-stage random sampling technique for selecting samples and used a semi-structured questionnaire to collect necessary information from them. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 was used for measuring depression and frequency distribution and binary logistic regression model were used for data analysis.ResultsThe prevalence of depression (moderate to severe) was 14.4% (95% CI: 11.9–16.9) among married adults, and females (21.2%, 95% CI: 17.2–25.4) suffered more than males (7.6%, 95% CI: 4.8–10.5). A multiple binary logistic regression model established four main factors of depression among married females: (i) multiple marriage [AOR = 19.982; 95% CI: 10.081–39.610; p < 0.01]; (ii) poor relationship with spouse [AOR = 2.175; 95%CI: 1.068–4.428; p < 0.05]; (iii) chronic medical comorbidity [AOR = 1.876; 95%CI: 1.009–2.626; p < 0.05]; and (iv) 7–12 years duration of conjugal life [AOR = 2.091, 1.009–4.334; p < 0.05]. Two main factors of depression among married males were (i) multiple marriage [AOR = 24.605; 95% CI: 20.228–40.402; p < 0.01] and hard work [AOR = 4.358; 95%CI: 1.109–7.132; p < 0.05].ConclusionThe prevalence of depression was significantly high among the study population, and females were the most vulnerable group. The concerned authorities and stakeholders should take appropriate measures to manage the problem with special focus on the risk factors and the vulnerable groups.

C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is Associated With Chronic Pain Independently of Biopsychosocial Factors

Inflammation is linked with chronic pain but the extent to which this relationship is associated with biopsychosocial factors is not known. We investigated relationships between blood C-reactive protein (CRP) and regional chronic pain conditions adjusting for a large range and number of potential confounders. We performed cross-sectional analyses using the UK Biobank (N = 415,567) comparing CRP in people reporting any of 9 types of regional chronic pain with pain-free controls. Using logistic regression modelling, we explored relationships between CRP and the presence of chronic pain, with demographic, socioeconomic, psychological/lifestyle factors, and medical comorbidities as covariates. CRP was higher in chronic pain at any site compared with controls (Females: median [interquartile range] 1.60 mg/L [2.74] vs 1.17 mg/L [1.87], P < .001; Males: 1.44 mg/L [2.12] vs 1.15 mg/L [1.65], P < .001). In males, associations between CRP and all types of chronic pain were attenuated but remained significant after adjustment for biopsychosocial covariates (OR range 1.08–1.49, P ≤ .001). For females, adjusted associations between CRP and pain remained significant for most chronic pain types (OR range 1.07–1.34, P < .001) except for facial pain (OR 1.04, P = .17) and headache (OR 1.02, P = .07)—although these non-significant findings may reflect reduced sample size. The significant association between CRP and chronic pain after adjustment for key biopsychosocial confounders implicates an independent underlying biological mechanism of inflammation in chronic pain. The presence of yet unknown or unmeasured confounding factors cannot be ruled out. Our findings may inform better-targeted treatments for chronic pain. PerspectiveUsing a large-scale dataset, this article investigates associations between chronic pain conditions and blood C-reactive protein (CRP), to evaluate the confounding effects of a range of biopsychosocial factors. CRP levels were higher in those with chronic pain versus controls after adjusting for confounders—suggesting a possible independent biological mechanism.

Obesity and male infertility.

The worldwide prevalence of obesity is increasing among both sexes, with associated impacts on chronic health and medical comorbidities. Similarly, the effects of obesity on reproductive health are increasingly being recognized. Adiposity is associated with reduced fertility in men, with a complex and multifactorial etiology. The reported effects of obesity on semen parameters and impaired fertility are contrasting, with some studies showing a clear reduction in reproductive outcomes associated with increased body mass index, while others do not show such impacts. These controversies may be due to the complex pathophysiology and interplay between gonadotropins and end organs, as well as genetic and epigenetic changes and oxidative stress on male fertility and function. These different aspects have led to heterogeneous participants in studies and varying implications for assisted reproductive outcomes as well as offspring health. Treatment modalities to manage obesity include lifestyle, medical, and surgical options, with emerging and effective medical treatments showing promise in reproductive outcomes.

Medical and obstetric comorbidities and delivery outcomes in overweight and obese parturients: a retrospective analysis

BackgroundResearch on obesity in women of reproductive age is heterogeneous in gestational age and body mass index (BMI) classification and focused mostly on pregnancy-related rather than medical comorbidities. We studied the prevalences of pre-pregnancy BMI, chronic maternal and obstetric comorbidities, and delivery outcomes.MethodsRetrospective analysis of real-time data collected during deliveries in a single tertiary medical center. Pre-pregnancy BMI was classified into seven groups (kg/m2): underweight (BMI < 18.5), normal weight 1 (18.5 ≤ BMI < 22.5), normal weight 2 (22.5 ≤ BMI < 25.0), overweight 1 (25.0 ≤ BMI < 27.5), overweight 2 (27.5 ≤ BMI < 30.0), obese (30.0 ≤ BMI < 35.0), and morbidly obese (BMI ≥ 35.0). Data were collected on maternal demographics, chronic medical and obstetric comorbidities, and delivery outcomes.ResultsIncluded were 13,726 women aged 18–50 years, with a gestational age of 240/7–416/7 weeks. Pre-pregnancy weights were 61.4% normal, 19.8% overweight, 7.6% obese, and 3.3% morbidly obese. Smoking was more prevalent among morbidly obese than among normal weight women. Obese and morbidly obese women were older and had more diabetes mellitus, hypertension, preeclampsia/eclampsia, and prior cesarean deliveries than normal weight parturients. Obese and morbidly obese women were also less likely to have a non-spontaneous conception, enter labor spontaneously (observed in the full study population and in a subgroup of term parturients), and were more likely to undergo cesarean rather than vaginal delivery. Subgroup analysis of primiparous women yielded similar results.ConclusionsWe identified a potential association between pre-pregnancy obesity and morbid obesity and higher rates of obstetric comorbidities, less natural conception and spontaneous labor, and more cesarean deliveries and adverse delivery outcomes. It remains to be seen if these findings remain after adjustment and whether they are related to obesity, treatment, or both.

Prevalence of unfavorable outcome in acute poisoning and associated factors at the University of Gondar comprehensive specialized hospital, Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia: a hospital-based cross-sectional study.

Acute poisoning is a medical emergency in which the toxic effects occur almost immediately, usually within hours from the time of exposure, and can result from exposure to excessive doses of any chemical. It is the common cause of emergency admission, which may result in morbidity and mortality. There are a lot of factors that are associated with an increased magnitude of mortality and complication. Therefore, this study was carried out to assess the clinical characteristics of patients, unfavorable outcomes of acute poisoning, and associated factors to improve the quality of care, resource utilization, and decrease mortality. This study aimed to assess the outcome and associated factors among acute poisoning patients at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia (2021). A prospective follow-up study was conducted from January 2021 to September 2021 at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia. Data were collected using a comprehensively organized and pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire. The data were entered using EPI data version 4.6.0 statistical software and then exported to Stata 14 for analysis. The data were analyzed for descriptive statistics. Statistical analysis was performed using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models to identify factors associated with the unfavorable outcome of acute poisoning. The result is presented in the form of tables, figures, and text using frequencies and summary statistics such as mean, SD, median, IQR, and percentage. A total of 233 patients were included in the study. The prevalence of unfavorable poisoning outcomes in acute poisoning was 17.6% (95% CI: 13.2, 23.1). In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, known chronic medical comorbidities [AOR: 3.846 (1.619, 9.574); value of p: 0.014] and hospital stay of less than 48 h [AOR: 6.57 (2.03, 21.273); value of p: 0.002] were found to be independent factors associated with unfavorable outcomes in acute poisoning. The magnitude of unfavorable poisoning outcomes was high in patients with acute poisoning. Having known medical comorbid illness and short hospital stay of less than 48 h were found to be associated with unfavorable outcomes.

Evaluation of Brain-Body Health in Individuals With Common Neuropsychiatric Disorders

Physical health and chronic medical comorbidities are underestimated, inadequately treated, and often overlooked in psychiatry. A multiorgan, systemwide characterization of brain and body health in neuropsychiatric disorders may enable systematic evaluation of brain-body health status in patients and potentially identify new therapeutic targets. To evaluate the health status of the brain and 7 body systems across common neuropsychiatric disorders. Brain imaging phenotypes, physiological measures, and blood- and urine-based markers were harmonized across multiple population-based neuroimaging biobanks in the US, UK, and Australia, including UK Biobank; Australian Schizophrenia Research Bank; Australian Imaging, Biomarkers, and Lifestyle Flagship Study of Ageing; Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative; Prospective Imaging Study of Ageing; Human Connectome Project-Young Adult; and Human Connectome Project-Aging. Cross-sectional data acquired between March 2006 and December 2020 were used to study organ health. Data were analyzed from October 18, 2021, to July 21, 2022. Adults aged 18 to 95 years with a lifetime diagnosis of 1 or more common neuropsychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and a healthy comparison group were included. Deviations from normative reference ranges for composite health scores indexing the health and function of the brain and 7 body systems. Secondary outcomes included accuracy of classifying diagnoses (disease vs control) and differentiating between diagnoses (disease vs disease), measured using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). There were 85 748 participants with preselected neuropsychiatric disorders (36 324 male) and 87 420 healthy control individuals (40 560 male) included in this study. Body health, especially scores indexing metabolic, hepatic, and immune health, deviated from normative reference ranges for all 4 neuropsychiatric disorders studied. Poor body health was a more pronounced illness manifestation compared to brain changes in schizophrenia (AUC for body = 0.81 [95% CI, 0.79-0.82]; AUC for brain = 0.79 [95% CI, 0.79-0.79]), bipolar disorder (AUC for body = 0.67 [95% CI, 0.67-0.68]; AUC for brain = 0.58 [95% CI, 0.57-0.58]), depression (AUC for body = 0.67 [95% CI, 0.67-0.68]; AUC for brain = 0.58 [95% CI, 0.58-0.58]), and anxiety (AUC for body = 0.63 [95% CI, 0.63-0.63]; AUC for brain = 0.57 [95% CI, 0.57-0.58]). However, brain health enabled more accurate differentiation between distinct neuropsychiatric diagnoses than body health (schizophrenia-other: mean AUC for body = 0.70 [95% CI, 0.70-0.71] and mean AUC for brain = 0.79 [95% CI, 0.79-0.80]; bipolar disorder-other: mean AUC for body = 0.60 [95% CI, 0.59-0.60] and mean AUC for brain = 0.65 [95% CI, 0.65-0.65]; depression-other: mean AUC for body = 0.61 [95% CI, 0.60-0.63] and mean AUC for brain = 0.65 [95% CI, 0.65-0.66]; anxiety-other: mean AUC for body = 0.63 [95% CI, 0.62-0.63] and mean AUC for brain = 0.66 [95% CI, 0.65-0.66). In this cross-sectional study, neuropsychiatric disorders shared a substantial and largely overlapping imprint of poor body health. Routinely monitoring body health and integrated physical and mental health care may help reduce the adverse effect of physical comorbidity in people with mental illness.

Global prevalence and effect of comorbidities and smoking status on severity and mortality of COVID-19 in association with age and gender: a systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression

A COVID-19 patient often presents with multiple comorbidities and is associated with adverse outcomes. A comprehensive assessment of the prevalence of comorbidities in patients with COVID-19 is essential. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of comorbidities, severity and mortality with regard to geographic region, age, gender and smoking status in patients with COVID-19. A systematic review and multistage meta-analyses were reported using PRISMA guidelines. PubMed/MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Google Scholar and EMBASE were searched from January 2020 to October 2022. Cross-sectional studies, cohort studies, case series studies, and case–control studies on comorbidities reporting among the COVID-19 populations that were published in English were included. The pooled prevalence of various medical conditions in COVID-19 patients was calculated based on regional population size weights. Stratified analyses were performed to understand the variations in the medical conditions based on age, gender, and geographic region. A total of 190 studies comprising 105 million COVID-19 patients were included. Statistical analyses were performed using STATA software, version 16 MP (StataCorp, College Station, TX). Meta-analysis of proportion was performed to obtain pooled values of the prevalence of medical comorbidities: hypertension (39%, 95% CI 36–42, n = 170 studies), obesity (27%, 95% CI 25–30%, n = 169 studies), diabetes (27%, 95% CI 25–30%, n = 175), and asthma (8%, 95% CI 7–9%, n = 112). Moreover, the prevalence of hospitalization was 35% (95% CI 29–41%, n = 61), intensive care admissions 17% (95% CI 14–21, n = 106), and mortality 18% (95% CI 16–21%, n = 145). The prevalence of hypertension was highest in Europe at 44% (95% CI 39–47%, n = 68), obesity and diabetes at 30% (95% CI, 26–34, n = 79) and 27% (95%CI, 24–30, n = 80) in North America, and asthma in Europe at 9% (95% CI 8–11, n = 41). Obesity was high among the ≥ 50 years (30%, n = 112) age group, diabetes among Men (26%, n = 124) and observational studies reported higher mortality than case–control studies (19% vs. 14%). Random effects meta-regression found a significant association between age and diabetes (p < 0.001), hypertension (p < 0.001), asthma (p < 0.05), ICU admission (p < 0.05) and mortality (p < 0.001). Overall, a higher global prevalence of hypertension (39%) and a lower prevalence of asthma (8%), and 18% of mortality were found in patients with COVID-19. Hence, geographical regions with respective chronic medical comorbidities should accelerate regular booster dose vaccination, preferably to those patients with chronic comorbidities, to prevent and lower the severity and mortality of COVID-19 disease with novel SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOC).

Critical Issues in the Management of Agitation, Aggression, and End-of-Life in Delusional Disorder: A Mini-Review

Background: Compared to other psychotic disorders, there is little information about staging care in delusional disorder (DD). Unlike schizophrenia, this is a disorder that begins in middle age, a time at which chronic medical comorbidities have already begun to impact global functioning. With age, the combination of psychological and somatic conditions leads to new behaviours, e.g., agitation, aggression, and behaviours that require specific preventive and interventive measures. With further age, knowledgeable end-of-life care becomes necessary for this population. Aim: The aim of this article was to review existing evidence on the management of these successive phases. Methods: We conducted a narrative review using PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov and searched for the following terms: (agitation OR aggressivity OR aggression OR palliative OR "end-of-life") AND ("delusional disorder"). Results: We found that the literature was sparse. Existing evidence suggests that medical causes are frequently at the root of agitation and aggression. With respect to management, de-escalation strategies are generally preferred over pharmacotherapy. Specific delusional syndromes, e.g., de Clérambault, Othello, Capgras, Fregoli, as well as folie à deux, are associated with aggression. The somatic subtype of DD is the one most often requiring palliative care at the end of life. Conclusions: We conclude that insufficient attention has been given to the care needs of the accelerated aging process in DD.

P053 Acceptability, Adaptability and Adherence to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Therapy among Aboriginal Australians - The “A5” Top End Northern Territory Australian Study

Abstract Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is highly prevalent among the Australian Indigenous population. In this setting, alongside a high prevalence of chronic medical comorbidities, OSA may further perpetuate adverse health outcomes. Though CPAP is a well-established, proven therapeutic modality, acceptability, and adherence have not been examined among the Australian Indigenous population. 730 Indigenous Australian patients with a diagnostic sleep study recorded between 2011 and 2020 were included. CPAP therapy was assessed as Accepting (any recorded use), Adapting (≥30 days use) and Adhering (≥30 days with ≥4 hours use on ≥70% of nights). 649 (89%) Indigenous patients had OSA (25% mild, 25% moderate &amp; 50% severe). The majority of patients were male (53%), aged a median 47 years and were obese (72%), with 44% residing in remote locations. 309 (48%) Accepted CPAP, 197 (30%) Adapted to CPAP and 67 (10%) Adhered to CPAP. Acceptance, Adaptation and Adherence were higher in patients with Severe vs. Mild OSA (63, 44 &amp; 16% vs. 23, 10 &amp; 3%). OSA severity was associated with Acceptance and Adaptation to CPAP therapy but was not associated with Adherence. Remote residence was significantly and negatively associated with Adaptation and Adherence to therapy. Remote location was found to be the major factor defining whether patients continued therapy for ≥30 days and adhered to therapeutic guidelines. Given that 80% of Indigenous Australians in the NT reside in remote communities significant work needs to be done to promote adaptation and adherence to therapy in order to reduce morbidity associated with sleep disorders.

An Educational Solution-Driven Discussion About Racial Public Health Disparities During the COVID-19 Pandemic

One of the most troubling aspects of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic in the US is the disproportionate harm that it has caused to historically marginalized, low income, underserved, and uninsured groups. During the emergence of the pandemic, Black, Hispanic, and Asian people have markedly higher infection rates, hospitalization, and death compared with White people. Once infected with COVID-19, persons with lower incomes, underserved, and people of color are at greater risk for hospitalization because they often have more chronic medical comorbidities. The prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, and obesity are higher among low-income, minority populations, all of which can make a COVID-19 infection much worse. In addition, racial and ethnic minority populations are often underinsured and have inferior access to healthcare, which likely results in those infected seeking care later during their illness. This paper explores educational solution-driven discussion about racial public health disparities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Oncologist and primary care provider attitudes towards shared care in patients with cancer with chronic medical comorbidities.

35 Background: Medical comorbidities pose challenges to the delivery of quality cancer care. Underserved cancer patients have the highest burden of chronic comorbidities, with increased risk for worse outcomes. Their health outcomes and care transitions might be improved by enhancing collaboration between oncologists and primary care providers (PCPs). Methods: This is a cross-sectional study of oncologists and PCPs in a large public safety-net hospital system in Houston, TX. Providers completed electronic surveys assessing demographics, attitudes, and satisfaction regarding the shared care of cancer patients with chronic comorbidities. Results: Eighteen oncologists (39% minority, 72% female) and 25 PCPs (23% minority, 77% female) completed the surveys. Independent samples t-tests revealed both oncologists and PCPs reported moderate levels of interprofessional collaboration, felt that existing processes to facilitate coordination of care were inadequate, and expressed moderate levels of dissatisfaction with the management of cancer patients with comorbidities within HHS (all p-values = n.s.). However, their attitudes toward care coordination differed significantly depending on the nature and timing of the care being provided. With regard to side effect management during cancer-directed therapy, 81% of PCPs preferred to co-manage side effects with oncologists, but 100% of oncologists preferred to be responsible for this activity (χ2= 23.08, p &lt;.001). With regard to management of late-effects of cancer treatment, 40% of oncologists were either interested in co-managing late effects with PCPs or having PCPs be solely responsible for this activity. Conversely, 86% of PCPs preferred to co-manage late effects with oncologists (χ2= 26.74, p &lt;.001). For cancer surveillance, oncologists and PCPs expressed interest in sharing responsibility depending on the patient’s risk for recurrence (χ2= 1.62, p =.30). Conclusions: Oncologists and PCPs were similarly dissatisfied with comorbidity management in cancer patients, but differed in their attitudes towards care coordination. Oncologists were more resistant to sharing responsibilities of toxicities during and after treatment. They were more accepting of PCPs assuming follow-up care for lower-risk patients. Further investigation is needed to determine specific areas of care coordination, barriers to provider collaboration, and knowledge and processes for effective shared care.

Pharmacologic Management of Mycobacterium chimaera Infections: A Primer for Clinicians.

Mycobacterium chimaera, a member of the Mycobacterium avium complex, can cause infections in individuals after open heart surgery due to contaminated heater-cooler units. The diagnosis can be challenging, as the incubation period can be quite variable, and symptoms are nonspecific. In addition to aggressive surgical management, combination pharmacologic therapy is the cornerstone of therapy, which should consist of a macrolide, a rifamycin, ethambutol, and amikacin. Multiple second-line agents may be utilized in the setting of intolerances or toxicities. In vitro susceptibility of these agents is similar to activity against other species in the Mycobacterium avium complex. Drug–drug interactions are frequently encountered, as many individuals have chronic medical comorbidities and are prescribed medications that interact with the first-line agents used to treat M. chimaera. Recognition of these drug–drug interactions and appropriate management are essential for optimizing treatment outcomes.

Role of medical comorbidity in the association between psychiatric disorders and mortality among patients with COVID-19.

We examined whether excess chronic medical comorbidity mediated excess COVID-19 inpatient mortality among people with mental disorders in the early phase of the pandemic, a question with important implications for public health and clinical decision-making. Using records of 2599 COVID-19 hospitalized patients, we conducted a formal causal mediation analysis to estimate the extent to which chronic comorbidity mediates the association between mental disorders and COVID-19 mortality. The Odds Ratio (95% CI) for Natural Indirect Effect and Controlled Direct Effect were 1.07(1.02, 1.14) and 1.40 (1.00, 1.95), respectively, suggesting that a large proportion of excess COVID-19 mortality among people with mental disorders may be explained by factors other than comorbidity.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00127-022-02271-5.

Paenibacillus wound infection in a pediatric trauma patient

We report a case of Paenibacillus wound infection in an immunocompetent and otherwise healthy nine-year-old boy who sustained a laceration following an all-terrain vehicle crash. During his course, he failed non-operative management and required multiple wound washouts and a thirty-six-day course of antibiotics. While this pathogen is most known for causing honeybee disease known as American Foulbrood (AFB), Paenibacillus has been implicated in a handful of human wound complications in the post-traumatic setting. This is a rare, opportunistic bacteria that is resistant to many commonly prescribed antibiotics. Less than twenty cases of human Paenibacillus wound infections have been reported in the literature and when they do occur, they often affect immunocompromised patients or those with chronic medical co-morbidities. In the last ten years, there have been four case reports of neonatal sepsis caused by this pathogen. This appears to be the first pediatric Paenibacillus wound infection reported.

Decannulation protocol for short term tracheostomy in pediatric head and neck tumor patients

BackgroundWhile the majority of pediatric tracheostomies are performed in the setting of chronic and complex medical comorbidities, perioperative tracheostomies following head and neck tumor ablation are generally short-term. Deliberate planning is required for decannulation in this setting and no published protocols currently exist. Our study outlines a management strategy for short-term tracheostomy in pediatric patients following head and neck surgery. MethodsA retrospective study of pediatric head and neck tumor patients undergoing tracheostomy was performed at a quaternary children's hospital from February 1, 2016 to December 31, 2018. Charts were reviewed for demographics, surgical operation, relevant tracheostomy-related complications, and time to decannulation. ResultsEleven patients with a mean age of 10.4 years (st.dev. 6.7, range: 0.5–23) underwent tracheostomy during their primary ablative/reconstructive surgery. Trans-tracheal pressure monitoring helped direct the need for tracheostomy downsizing and readiness for capping trials. All patients were decannulated before hospital discharge after a mean of 12.8 days (st.dev. 2.5, range: 9–18) and were discharged after a mean of 14.8 days (st.dev. 2.5, range: 11–20). ConclusionPediatric head and neck surgery patients can be quickly and safely decannulated with an instructive protocol and multidisciplinary care.

Prevalence and Predictors of Cardiovascular Disease and Risk Factors in Transgender Persons in the United States.

The cardiovascular health of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) persons, a growing population in the United States, has become a subject of heightened interest. We sought to assess the prevalence and predictors of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in transgender men, transgender women, and gender nonconforming persons in the United States. A cohort of individuals self-identified as TGD (ie, transgender or gender nonconforming) in the United States was identified using the 2018 Centers for Disease Control's Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey. Among the 1019 TGD individuals studied, 378 (37.1%) identified their transition status as male-to-female, 394 (38.7%) as female-to-male, and the remaining 247 (24.2%) as gender nonconforming. A total of 138 (13.5%) had reported CVD, while 881 (86.5%) did not. The prevalence of CVD in TGD individuals identified as male-to-female, female-to-male, and gender nonconforming were noted to be similar (14.6% vs. 13.5% vs. 12.1%; P = 0.69). TGD persons with CVD were older with lower annual income. They also had higher rates of smoking, lower rates of regular exercise, and higher rates of smoking and chronic medical comorbidities. Independent predictors of CVD in TGD persons included older age, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and depressive disorder. In this contemporary cross-sectional nationally representative survey, CVD was prevalent in nearly 14% of TGD persons. Further studies examining interventions to reduce CV risk and enhance access to medical care in the TGD population are warranted.

Association Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes.

To examine the association between adverse childhood experiences and adverse pregnancy outcomes. This cohort study included individuals who enrolled in a perinatal collaborative mental health care program (COMPASS [the Collaborative Care Model for Perinatal Depression Support Services]) between 2017 and 2021. Participants completed psychosocial self-assessments, including an adverse childhood experiences screen. The primary exposure was adverse childhood experiences measured by the ACE (adverse childhood experience) score, which was evaluated as a dichotomized variable, with a high ACE score defined as greater than three. Secondary analyses used the ACE score as a continuous variable. Adverse pregnancy outcomes including gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, preterm birth, and small-for-gestational-age (SGA) births were abstracted from the electronic health record. Bivariable and multivariable analyses were performed, including mediation analyses. Of the 1,274 women with a completed adverse childhood experiences screen, 904 (71%) reported one or more adverse childhood experiences, and 290 (23%) reported a high ACE score (more than three adverse childhood experiences). Adverse childhood experience scores were not associated with gestational diabetes or SGA births. After controlling for potential confounders, individuals with high ACE score had 1.55-fold (95% CI 1.06-2.26) increased odds of having hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and 2.03-fold (95% CI 1.38-2.99) increased odds of preterm birth. Each point increase in ACE score was not associated with a statistically increased odds of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.07, 95% CI 0.99-1.15); however, each additional point on the adverse childhood experiences screen was associated with increased odds of preterm birth (aOR 1.13, 95% CI 1.05-1.22). Mediation analyses demonstrated tobacco use, chronic medical problems, and obesity each partially mediated the observed association between high ACE scores and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Having chronic medical comorbidities partially mediated the observed association between high ACE scores and preterm birth. One in four individuals referred to a perinatal mental health program who were pregnant or postpartum had a high ACE score. Having a high ACE score was associated with an increased risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and preterm birth. These results underscore how remote events may reverberate through the life course.

Abstract P081: Association Of Homelessness And Anticoagulation Initiation In Veterans With Atrial Fibrillation: A Nationwide Study

Introduction: Homeless individuals, overrepresented by Veterans, are more likely to have chronic medical conditions and comorbidities. They receive less medical care and have poor health outcomes, though remain understudied. Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common cardiovascular rhythm disorder, is managed largely through anticoagulation. Direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have been shown superior to warfarin anticoagulation in efficacy, safety, and adherence, though costlier. Hypothesis: Homeless Veterans receive a worse standard of care for AF than non-homeless Veterans in terms of initiation of any anticoagulation therapy, and in prescription of DOACs vs warfarin among those who began therapy. Methods: We studied 181,982 Veterans with incident, non-valvular AF in the Veterans Affairs Healthcare system from 2010-2018 who were not previously anticoagulated. Those who died or entered hospice were excluded. We classified Veterans who had experienced homelessness in the 2 years prior to their AF diagnosis using ICD-9/10 diagnosis codes and through VA homeless services use. We used logistic regression to examine the odds of initiation of any, DOAC, or warfarin anticoagulation. Models were adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics (year, age, race, CHA2DS2-VASc stroke risk score, HAS-BLED bleeding risk score, renal disease, BMI) and provider factors (e.g. specialty, had a patient seen a cardiologist within 90 days of their diagnosis). Facility type was modeled as a random effect. Results: Most of our cohort were male (178,400, 98%) and White (155,142, 85.6%). The homeless population of 6,472 was overrepresented by Black patients (1,574, 24.5%) and presented with AF at a younger age. The likelihood of being anticoagulated was lower in all populations before 2014. Having a BMI less than 25, liver disease, or bleeding concerns decreased the likelihood of being anticoagulated, while patients with renal disease were less likely to be prescribed DOACs. Black and Hispanic patients were less likely to be prescribed DOACs, regardless of homelessness status. We found the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of initiating any anticoagulant therapy for homeless Veterans was 0.71 (95% CI 0.67 - 0.75). Among those who initiated anticoagulation, homeless individuals were less likely than non-homeless Veterans to initiate DOACs (aOR 0.88, 95% CI 0.80-0.96). Conclusions: In a nationwide cohort of Veterans with AF, we found that homeless Veterans were less likely to initiate any anticoagulation, especially more effective DOAC therapy. These findings persisted after adjusting for sociodemographic and clinical factors within an integrated health system with broad access to medical treatment through a uniform drug formulary. Future research must examine and address systematic biases to ensure high quality and equitable care for the most vulnerable populations, including homeless Veterans.