Compare Prevalence Rates Research Articles

Has the UK lost its position as a destination for world-leading clinical research? A comparative analysis of haematological cancer clinical trials performance before Brexit

ObjectivesTo understand the competitive position of the UK in comparison to Europe and the USA for haematological cancer clinical research.DesignUsing commercially available databases, clinical trial numbers, their effectiveness and publication...

Prevalence of Mild and Severe Cognitive Impairment in World Trade Center Exposed Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) and General Emergency Responders.

The emergency personnel who responded to the World Trade Center (WTC) attacks endured severe occupational exposures, yet the prevalence of cognitive impairment remains unknown among WTC-exposed-FDNY-responders. The present study screened for mild and severe cognitive impairment in WTC-exposed FDNY responders using objective tests, compared prevalence rates to a cohort of non-FDNY WTC-exposed responders, and descriptively to meta-analytic estimates of MCI from global, community, and clinical populations. A sample of WTC-exposed-FDNY responders (n = 343) was recruited to complete an extensive battery of cognitive, psychological, and physical tests. The prevalences of domain-specific impairments were estimated based on the results of norm-referenced tests, and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Jak/Bondi criteria, Petersen criteria, and the National Institute on Aging and Alzheimer's Association (NIA-AA) criteria were used to diagnose MCI. NIA-AA criteria were also used to diagnose severe cognitive impairment. Generalized linear models and propensity score matching were used to compare prevalence estimates of cognitive impairment to a large sample of WTC-exposed-non-FDNY responders from the General Responder Cohort (GRC; n = 7102) who completed the MoCA during a similar time frame. Among FDNY responders under 65 years, the unadjusted prevalence of MCI varied from 52.57% to 60.32% depending on the operational definition of MCI, apart from using a conservative cut-off applied to MoCA total scores (18 < MoCA < 23), which yielded a markedly lower crude prevalence (24.31%) compared to alternative criteria. Using propensity score matching, the prevalence of MCI was significantly higher among WTC-exposed FDNY responders, compared to WTC-exposed GRC responders (adjusted RR = 1.13 (CI 95% = 1.07-1.20, p < 0.001), and descriptively higher than meta-analytic estimates from different global, community, and clinical populations. Following NIA-AA diagnostic guidelines, 4.96% of WTC-exposed-FDNY-responders met the criteria for severe impairments (95% CI = 2.91-7.82), a prevalence that remained largely unchanged after excluding responders over the age of 65 years. There is a high prevalence of mild and severe cognitive impairment among WTC-responders, highlighting the putative role of occupational, environmental, and disaster-related exposures in the etiology of accelerated cognitive decline.

Prevalence of Urinary Incontinence in Female Professional Soccer Players by Category and Specific Position: A Comparative Study with a Control Group.

Urinary incontinence (UI) significantly impacts quality of life, with varying prevalence in women depending on factors such as age, childbirth, and type of sport practiced. This study compared the prevalence, types, and severity of urinary incontinence (UI) between professional female soccer players and sedentary students, analyzing its relation to playing position and competitive level. A descriptive, observational, and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted, assessing the prevalence, severity, and types of UI among 235 nulliparous professional female soccer players (experimental group, EG) and 252 sedentary female students (control group, CG). Data were collected using the short version of the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire (ICIQ-SF). Statistical analyses included Fisher's exact test to compare prevalence rates. The findings revealed that 35% of soccer players and 31% of sedentary students reported experiencing UI. Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) was the most prevalent type in both groups, affecting 26% of soccer players and 14% of sedentary students, while mixed UI was more frequent among sedentary women (17%) (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed in UI prevalence based on playing position or competitive level (p ≥ 0.05). However, female soccer players exhibited a significantly higher prevalence of UI during physical exertion or exercise compared to the control group (p ≤ 0.001), suggesting that high-impact sports may contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction. Additionally, 23.8% of soccer players reported mild-to-moderate UI severity. Female soccer players showed higher UI prevalence during exercise, underscoring the need for targeted interventions like pelvic floor training.

Prevalence and Economic Burden of Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Medically Underserved Rio Grande Valley: A Retrospective Longitudinal Analysis.

Introduction Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, two of the most common forms of arthritis worldwide, are chronic diseases affecting the joints. The Rio Grande Valley is characterized by an abundance of health disparities, with previous studies showing increased rates of multiple diseases and disorders in this region. This study aimed to determine both the prevalence and the risk-adjusted average cost of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in the Rio Grande Valley and to compare them with the national average. We hypothesize that the prevalence and risk-adjusted average cost of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in the Rio Grande Valley will be greater than the corresponding national averages. Methods Publicly accessible Medicare beneficiary data were utilized for our retrospective longitudinal, observational study. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis data for risk-adjusted average total cost, overall prevalence, sex-stratified prevalence, and ethnicity-stratified prevalence, from 2012 to 2022, were compared between the Rio Grande Valley and the national means using specific domains of the "Mapping Medicare Disparities by Population" tool. Independent t-tests and a Mann-Whitney U test compared prevalence rates and risk-adjusted average total cost means, respectively, between the Rio Grande Valley and the national averages. Results Overall, the prevalence of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in the Rio Grande Valley was significantly higher than the national average (39.9% vs. 26.9%, p < 0.001). Women in the region exhibited significantly higher rates of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis compared to the national average (47.6% vs. 32.1%, p < 0.001), and a similar trend was seen among Hispanic residents (41.6%) compared to the national mean (32.1%) (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the risk-adjusted average total cost for individuals residing in the Rio Grande Valley ($16,084.40) significantly exceeded the risk-adjusted average total cost nationally ($13,073.90) (p < 0.001). Conclusion In the Rio Grande Valley, there is an increased prevalence of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis compared to the national mean of Medicare beneficiary patients, particularly in women and those of Hispanic heritage. The substantial increase in risk-adjusted average total cost to treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis highlights the economic burden faced by residents in the region.

The trajectory of body image dissatisfaction during pregnancy and postpartum and its relationship to Body-Mass-Index.

During pregnancy, women's bodies undergo rapid body weight and size changes within a relatively short period. Pregnancy may therefore, be associated with an increased vulnerability for developing body image dissatisfaction linked to adverse health outcomes for the mother (e.g., depression, eating disorders) and child (e.g., impaired self-regulation, childhood obesity). The present study aims to examine the prevalence and trajectories of body image dissatisfaction during pregnancy and postpartum and its relationship to pre-pregnancy BMI. This is the first study that investigates prevalence rates of body image dissatisfaction not only ante- but also postpartum, and that compares trajectories of women with normal weight and overweight. A prospective longitudinal design with a quantitative approach was applied. Healthy pregnant women (N = 136) answered paper-pencil or online questionnaires at four time points (18th-22nd and 33rd-37th week of gestation, 3 and 6 months postpartum). Body image dissatisfaction was assessed using the German version of the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) and the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q). Both questionnaires are considered reliable and valid measures of several aspects of body image, and the BSQ allows for calculating prevalence rates by providing cut-off values. Using not just one but two body image questionnaires, trajectories of body image dissatisfaction can be compared. Pre-pregnancy BMI was assessed retrospectively via self-reported weight and height. The proportion of women reporting elevated levels of body image dissatisfaction was 6.6% (n = 9) in the second trimester, 2.9% (n = 4) in the third trimester, 11.0% (n = 15) three months postpartum, and 10.3% (n = 14) six months postpartum. Repeated measures ANOVA revealed that body image dissatisfaction significantly decreased from pre-pregnancy to pregnancy, remained stable during pregnancy, and returned to pre-pregnancy levels three to six months postpartum. Mixed between-within ANOVA showed that the overweight/obese group reported significantly higher levels of body image dissatisfaction at each measurement point except during the third trimester than women in the normal weight group. Significant but small interaction effects between time and pre-pregnancy BMI were found. The results revealed that approximately every tenth woman is affected by body image dissatisfaction after childbirth. Women with a higher BMI level before pregnancy are particularly at risk of experiencing body image dissatisfaction. Healthcare providers should screen for body image dissatisfaction, in particular after childbirth, and inform affected women about possible adverse health outcomes and treatment options. Study limitations concern the drop-out rate of 51.4% and the retrospective and self-reported assessment of pre-pregnancy BMI. Future studies should include additional assessment points in the first trimester and more than six months postpartum and try to include a matched control group of non-pregnant women to compare prevalence rates and trajectory of body image dissatisfaction.

Prevalence of Mild and Severe Cognitive Impairment in World Trade Center Exposed Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) and General Emergency Responders.

The emergency personnel who responded to the World Trade Center (WTC) attacks endured severe occupational exposures, yet the prevalence of cognitive impairment remains unknown among WTC-exposed-FDNY-responders. The present study screened for mild and severe cognitive impairment in WTC-exposed FDNY responders using objective tests, compared prevalence rates to a cohort of non-FDNY WTC-exposed responders, and descriptively to meta-analytic estimates of MCI from global, community, and clinical populations. A sample of WTC-exposed-FDNY responders (n = 343) was recruited to complete an extensive battery of cognitive, psychological, and physical tests. The prevalences of domain-specific impairments were estimated based on the results of norm-referenced tests, and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Jak/Bondi criteria, Petersen criteria, and the National Institute on Aging and Alzheimer's Association (NIA-AA) criteria were used to diagnose MCI. NIA-AA criteria were also used to diagnose severe cognitive impairment. Generalized linear models were used to compare prevalence estimates of cognitive impairment to a large sample of WTC-exposed-non-FDNY responders from the General Responder Cohort (GRC; n = 7102) who completed the MoCA during a similar time frame. Among FDNY responders under 65 years, the unadjusted prevalence of MCI varied from 52.57% to 71.37% depending on the operational definition of MCI, apart from using a conservative cut-off applied to MoCA total scores (18 < MoCA < 23), which yielded a markedly lower crude prevalence (24.31%) compared to alternative criteria. The prevalence of MCI was higher among WTC-exposed-FDNY-responders, compared to WTC-exposed-non-FDNY-GRC-responders (adjusted RR = 1.53, 95% C.I. = [1.24, 1.88], p < .001) and meta-analytic estimates from different global, community, and clinical populations. Following NIA-AA diagnostic guidelines, 4.96% of WTC-exposed-FDNY-responders met the criteria for severe impairments (95% CI = [2.91% to 7.82%]), a prevalence that remained largely unchanged after excluding responders over the age of 65 years. There is a high prevalence of mild and severe cognitive impairment among WTC-responders highlighting the putative role of occupational/environmental and disaster-related exposures in the etiology of accelerated cognitive decline.

The aging gastrointestinal tract: Epidemiology and clinical significance of disorders of gut-brain interaction in the older general population.

Most previous reports on the prevalence of disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI) show higher rates in younger individuals. Exceptions are faecal incontinence and functional constipation. To compare prevalence rates for 22 DGBI and 24 primary symptoms, by age, using the Rome Foundation Global Epidemiology (RFGES) study dataset. The RFGES dataset enables diagnosis of 22 DGBI among 54,127 participants (≥18 years) in 26 countries. Older age was defined as ≥65 years. We assessed differences between age groups by sex, geographic region, somatisation, abnormal anxiety and depression scores, quality of life (QoL), individual gastrointestinal symptoms and disease severity for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Rates for any DGBI were 41.9% and 31.9% in the <65 and ≥65 age groups, respectively. For all Rome IV diagnoses except faecal incontinence, rates were higher in the younger group. The older group had lower scores for any DGBI by geographic region, non-gastrointestinal somatic symptoms, abnormal anxiety and depression scores, and IBS severity, and better scores for QoL. The mean number of endorsed symptoms and their frequency were higher in the younger group. In this large general population study, the prevalence and impact of DGBI, apart from faecal incontinence, were higher in the younger group. Despite this, DGBI rates are still high in absolute terms in the ≥65 age group and necessitate clinical awareness and, perhaps, an age-specific treatment approach.

Functional gastrointestinal disorders, quality of life, and behaviour in adolescents with history of infant colic.

To assess the prevalence of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs), health-related quality of life (HRQOL), and behavioural problems in a cohort of adolescents with a history of infant colic (IC), as defined by Wessel's criteria. 388 adolescents, aged 15-18 years, who participated in a randomised controlled trial for infants with colic, were invited for our observational follow-up study. Prevalence of FGIDs was assessed with the Rome IV Questionnaire on Paediatric Gastrointestinal Disorders (RIV-QPGD), HRQOL through self-report of the Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), and behavioural problems through parent-report of the child behaviour checklist (CBCL). Multivariable models were used to compare prevalence rates of FGIDs and HRQOL scores. 190 (49%) adolescents with a history of IC (cases) and 381 controls were included (median age 17.0 [IQR 16.0-17.0] and 16.0 [15.0-17.0] years, respectively). Cases had a significantly higher risk for postprandial distress syndrome compared to controls (aOR 2.49 (95%CI 1.18-5.25), p = 0.002). After multivariable regression, total, physical and school HRQOL scores were significantly lower in cases compared to controls (p = 0.003, 0.001, and 0.009). Adolescents with a history of IC demonstrate higher prevalence rates of postprandial distress syndrome compared to controls. However, conclusions should be made with caution due to attrition and information bias.

How back pain influences daily activities and quality of life: Incidence of back pain related to age.

Low back pain is a prevalent global musculoskeletal issue, with a lifetime prevalence ranging from 49% to 70% in adults. Traditionally associated with adults, recent field surveys indicate comparable prevalence rates in children and adolescents, challenging earlier assumptions. Non-specific low back pain, where the source cannot be identified through diagnostic imaging, accounts for about 80%-90% of cases. Studies have shown that over 80% of adolescents with low back pain exhibit no underlying pathology. The prevalence of low back pain in younger populations varies widely, influenced by study methodology, age, and pain types. Research suggests that back pain prevalence in adolescents increases with age, with a shift in attitudes considering it is not necessarily indicative of specific issues. Level of evidence: level V.

Prevalence and Economic Burden of Keratoconus in the United States

To assess the prevalence and economic burden of keratoconus in the United States. Retrospective cohort study. Patients enrolled in Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) who were diagnosed with keratoconus between 2016 and 2019 were included. The data reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Vision and Eye Health Surveillance System (VEHSS) were analyzed. The crude prevalence rates (national and statewise) were obtained from the database and extrapolated to estimate the keratoconus case count in the United States. The keratoconus prevalence was compared between male and female individuals using the Mann-Whitney test, whereas Brown-Forsythe 1-way analysis of variance was used to compare prevalence between age and racial groups. The Dunnett T3 multiple comparison test was used for intergroup comparison. Finally, the economic burden of keratoconus was assessed by inflation-adjusted direct costs to patients and total cases in the country. In the cohort of 69,502,000 patients enrolled for Medicaid and CHIP, the national prevalence of keratoconus was computed to be 0.04% in 2019 and had increased from 0.03% in 2016. The highest prevalence of keratoconus was observed in patients 18 to 39 years of age, followed by patients 40 to 64 years of age; comparable prevalence rates were observed in these age groups in the Black population. The prevalence was moderately higher in female compared to male individuals; however, significantly higher keratoconus prevalence was observed in Black female individuals compared to male individuals. A significantly high prevalence of keratoconus was observed in the Black population, followed by Hispanic population. In 2019, the average inflation-adjusted lifetime cost of keratoconus treatment was USD 28,766.69, with a cumulative economic burden of USD 3.8 billion. In the United States, keratoconus is most prevalent in individuals 18 to 39 years of age. The keratoconus prevalence is higher in the Black population, specifically female individuals, and the diagnosis is often delayed in these patients.

Prevalence of malocclusion in adolescents according to sex, caries experience, gingival bleeding and smile dissatisfaction

Objective: The propose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of malocclusion among adolescents and to assess the differences of this prevalence according to sex, experience of caries, gingival bleeding, and smile dissatisfaction. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 600 adolescents from 10 to 16 years old, who were identified and selected from public schools’ records. Intraoral and extraoral examinations were performed following World Health Organization recommendations and included: number of decayed, missing and filled teeth, presence of gingival bleeding, and occlusal condition. The latter was assessed based on information of Dental Aesthetic Index, and Foster and Hamilton Index, in addition to the evaluation of dental midline, facial and smile pleasantness according to Capelozza Filho classification. Smile dissatisfaction was also evaluated. Bivariate Poisson regression with robust variance was used to compare prevalence rates. Results: The prevalence of malocclusion, caries experience, gingival bleeding and smile dissatisfaction were 96.0%, 52.3%, 55.8%, and 49.4%, respectively. The prevalence of malocclusion was higher among adolescents with gingival bleeding. Statistically significant associations were noticed between crowding of the upper and lower anterior teeth and gingival bleeding, as well as among Class III molar relationship, deviation of the dental midline, anterior open bite, anterior crossbite, and caries experience. Smiles classified as acceptable or unpleasant were associated with dissatisfaction. Conclusion: These findings have evidenced a higher prevalence of malocclusion among adolescents and its association with caries experience, gingival bleeding, and smile dissatisfaction.

Young Adult Depression and Cannabis Use: Associations Before and After Recreational Legalization

The co-occurrence of depression with cannabis use worsens both mood and substance use disorder outcomes, with young adults particularly at risk of co-occurrence. This research investigates whether the association of state-level prevalence rates of young adult (age 18-25) depression and cannabis use in the U.S. changed following enactment of recreational (adult use) cannabis legalization between 2008 and 2019. Annual, state prevalence data on past-year major depressive episode (hereafter, depression) and past-month cannabis use were extracted from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (N=600 state-year observations). Moderated regression models tested whether the association of depression with cannabis use differed before versus after recreational legalization by comparing prevalence rates of depression and cannabis use in states that enacted recreational legalization to those that did not, while fixing state, year, and medical legalization effects. Data were accessed and analyzed in 2023. Prevalence rates of both depression and cannabis use increased throughout the study period. The positive statistical effect of depression on cannabis use more than doubled in magnitude after legalization (β=0.564, 95% CI=0.291, 0.838) as compared to before (β=0.229, 95% CI=0.049, 0.409), representing a significant change (β=0.335, 95% CI=0.093, 0.577). These results suggest that the association between prevalence rates of young adult depression and cannabis use strengthened following recreational legalization in the U.S. This is potentially due to increases in cannabis accessibility and the acceptance of the health benefits of cannabis, which may enhance the use of cannabis as a coping mechanism among young adults with depression.

Prevalence Rates in Schoolchildren According to the Results of Comprehensive Medical Examinations

Introduction: The educational process is one of the leading factors determining health of schoolchildren. Identification of pathologic afflictions among students can contribute to targeted development of health promotion activities and significantly reduce risks of diseases related to learning. Objective: To compare prevalence rates in elementary, secondary and high school students. Materials and methods: In January 2021 to October 2022, 498 schoolchildren passed comprehensive medical examinations. They were subdivided into three cohorts: cohort 1 consisted of 132 elementary school students (median age = 8 (7; 9) years), cohort 2 included 257 secondary school students (13 (11; 14) years), and cohort 3 comprised 109 high school students aged 16 (16; 17) years. The prevalence was assessed based on doctors’ statements; the data and statistics were analyzed using Jamovi. Results: Diseases of the musculoskeletal and digestive systems and endocrine disorders were found to be the most prevalent among the students (68.9–87.5 per 100 examined). The highest fold difference was established between high and elementary school students for the prevalence rates of tension-type headache (32.1), chronic gastritis and duodenitis (22.9), myopia (5.1), and scoliosis (2.9). We observed a direct relationship between educational stages and the development of those diseases. Conclusions: Our findings indicate the need of including additional examinations by neurologists and otolaryngologists at different ages in the procedure for conducting health checkups of minors. The focus, content and scope of health promotion, disease prevention, and outreach activities of pediatricians and preventive medicine physicians should be determined taking into account age-specific prevalence rates and the established association between stages of school education and certain health disorders.

#4939 EFFECTS OF PREVIOUS HEMODIALYSIS TREATMENT ON PERITONEAL DIALYSIS OUTCOMES

Abstract Background and Aims Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) frequently need to change dialysis modality. While the transition from peritoneal dialysis (PD) to hemodialysis (HD) is not an uncommon occurrence, the opposite is less frequent and much less studied. The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of patients who started renal replacement therapy (RRT) with PD and patients who transitioned from HD to PD. Method Retrospective single-center cohort study with patients who started PD between 1st January 2010 and 31st December 2017, with a median follow-up of 60 months. Patients were separated in two groups, one where the initial RRT was PD (“PD first”) and another who transitioned from HD to PD (“Previous HD”). Clinical outcomes (complications during PD, technique failure, hospitalizations) and dialysis adequacy were compared between the two groups. Results Among the 137 patients included in this study, 22 transitioned directly from HD and 115 were PD first. The population included 63,7% of male gender, with a mean age of 52,9 ± 14,6 years and a mean Charleston score of 4,4 ± 2,2. Sixty percent had diabetes and 65,2% had hypertension. Median time on PD was 112,7 months (IQR 44,2). Patients who transitioned from HD had lower residual diuresis both at start of PD (1153 ± 920 vs. 1880 ± 924; p &amp;lt; 0,007) and at the end of follow-up (750 ± 1074 vs. 1252 ± 836; p &amp;lt; 0,037). A higher rate of UF failure was observed in patients who transitioned from HD (30,1% vs. 10,9%; p = 0,036). Annual rate of peritonitis and hospitalization was the same between groups. Technique failure (death or hemodialysis transfer) was not different between groups (52,1% vs. 53,6%, p = 0,903; logrank 0,301). Conclusion Residual diuresis was lower in the group that was previously in HD, which might be explained by the negative impact of HD in the preservation of renal residual function. Despite comparable DM prevalence and similar rates of PD-related infections a greater proportion of previous HD patients developed UF failure. Previous HD can predict a more complex volemic control in PD because of a lower residual renal function. Despite that, technique failure, hospitalizations, infections and outcomes at end of follow-up were similar in both groups. PD can be considered a viable dialysis technique in terms of outcomes in patients transferred from HD. Table 1:Analysis of HD first versus PD first groups.VariableTotal (n = 135)Previous HD (n = 22)PD first (n = 113)P-valueGender (male), n (%)86 (63.7)14 (60.9)72 (64.3)0.756Age at start of PD (years) (a)52.9 ± 14.652.0 ± 15.553.0 ± 14.60.772Time in PD (months) (a)112.7 ± 44.297.7 ± 56.2115.2 ± 41.60.107Hypertension, n (%)88 (65.2)11 (47.8)77 (68.8)0.055Diabetes, n (%)54 (60)10 (43.5)44 (39.3)0.709Charleston Score (a)4.4 ± 2.24.6 ± 2.34.3 ± 2.20.519PD adequacyKtV at PD start (a)2.7 ± 0.82.5 ± 0.72.7 ± 0.90.201KtV at end of follow-up (a)2.1 ± 0.61.9 ± 0.72.1 ± 0.60.250Residual diuresis at PD start (mL/24h) (a)1769 ± 9551153 ± 9201880 ± 9240.007Residual diuresis at end of follow-up (mL/24h) (a)1175 ± 889750 ± 10741252 ± 8360.037UF failure, n (%)17 (14)6 (30.1)11 (10.9)0.036ComplicationsAnnual peritonitis rate (a)0.1 ± 0.20.1 ± 0.30.1 ± 0.20.855Annual exit tunnel infections rate (a)0.0 ± 0.10.0 ± 0.10.0 ± 0.10.845Annual tunnel infections rate (a)0.0 ± 0.00.0 ± 0.00.0 ± 0.00.890Annual hospitalizations rate (a)0.2 ± 0.50.2 ± 0.50.2 ± 0.50.955Outcomes at end of follow-up, n (%)0.071 PD maintenance31 (23)4 (17.4)27 (24.1) HD transfer52 (38.5)5 (21.7)47 (42) Kidney transplantation29 (21.5)7 (30.4)22 (19.6) Death20 (14.8)7 (30.4)13 (11.6) Loss of follow-up3 (2.2)0 (0)3 (2.7)

Prevalence of low back pain among Irish radiographers

BACKGROUNDAccording to the literature, low back pain (LBP) is one of the top ten diseases and injuries contributing to disability-adjusted life years worldwide. To the best of the authors’ knowledge there are no studies investigating the prevalence of LBP among radiographers working in Ireland or have compared prevalence rates with the national population or other cohorts of radiographers or healthcare professionals. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of LBP among radiographers working or who have previously worked in Ireland and to identify any causative factors. METHODSA cross-sectional study in the form of an online questionnaire was developed. Participation was advertised online via social media platforms. Inclusion criteria included qualified radiographers working in Ireland or who had recently worked in Ireland. Section A of the questionnaire focussed on acquiring demographic data. Section B comprised eight questions relating to LBP, including current and previous experiences, causative factors and consequences.Further details on any episodes of LBP in the previous year, whether work and leisure activities had been affected, whether any extracurricular activities caused LBP, and whether a participant sought professional advice. Section C (six questions) used a 5-point ordinal scale to collect information on the frequency of specific tasks performed by radiographers in their daily roles. Section D involved exploratory questions, including whether LBP has forced a career change if they knew anyone who has changed their career as a result of LBP, reaction to the amount of manual handling required for radiographers, whether they thought manual handling training was sufficient, thoughts on the availability of assistive transfer devices, reasons for not following correct patient transfer guidelines, and finally whether they were concerned about LBP affecting their future. RESULTS151 radiographers participated in this study, and the point prevalence rate of LBP was 50%, with 12 months prevalence rate of 75%. Regarding activity levels, 25% (n=37) reported reduced work activity, and a further 43%(n=65) reduced leisure activities due to LBP. 37% (n=56) have sought medical advice from a doctor, physiotherapist, or other HCP concerning their LBP in the last year. 68% (n=104) of respondents who have LBP confirmed it was not a result of any extracurricular activities. CONCLUSIONThe prevalence of LBP among radiographers in Ireland was high and 4.7 times higher than the period prevalence rate recorded in the general population. LBP rates were similar to radiographers working in other jurisdictions. Data from this study may help manage LBP and monitor any interventions' effectiveness.

Mood and Anxiety Disorders and Suicidality in Patients With Newly Diagnosed Focal Epilepsy: An Analysis of a Complex Comorbidity.

Mood, anxiety disorders, and suicidality are more frequent in people with epilepsy than in the general population. Yet, their prevalence and the types of mood and anxiety disorders associated with suicidality at the time of the epilepsy diagnosis are not established. We sought to answer these questions in patients with newly diagnosed focal epilepsy and to assess their association with suicidal ideation and attempts. The data were derived from the Human Epilepsy Project study. A total of 347 consecutive adults aged 18-60 years with newly diagnosed focal epilepsy were enrolled within 4 months of starting treatment. The types of mood and anxiety disorders were identified with the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview, whereas suicidal ideation (lifetime, current, active, and passive) and suicidal attempts (lifetime and current) were established with the Columbia Suicidality Severity Rating Scale (CSSRS). Statistical analyses included the t test, χ2 statistics, and logistic regression analyses. A total of 151 (43.5%) patients had a psychiatric diagnosis; 134 (38.6%) met the criteria for a mood and/or anxiety disorder, and 75 (21.6%) reported suicidal ideation with or without attempts. Mood (23.6%) and anxiety (27.4%) disorders had comparable prevalence rates, whereas both disorders occurred together in 43 patients (12.4%). Major depressive disorders (MDDs) had a slightly higher prevalence than bipolar disorders (BPDs) (9.5% vs 6.9%, respectively). Explanatory variables of suicidality included MDD, BPD, panic disorders, and agoraphobia, with BPD and panic disorders being the strongest variables, particularly for active suicidal ideation and suicidal attempts. In patients with newly diagnosed focal epilepsy, the prevalence of mood, anxiety disorders, and suicidality is higher than in the general population and comparable to those of patients with established epilepsy. Their recognition at the time of the initial epilepsy evaluation is of the essence.

Prevalence of hepatitis B & C infections in prospective blood donors deferred due to history of jaundice.

As per national guidelines, prospective blood donors with a history of jaundice of unknown cause are deferred permanently to prevent the transmission of hepatitis B and C. The validity of this guideline was tested by comparing prevalence rates of hepatitis B and C in prospective blood donors deferred due to a history of jaundice, with that of donors who were found fit. Blood samples of 212 consecutive donors (male, n=203) deferred due to a history of jaundice were studied for hepatitis B and C by rapid test kits as well as by chemiluminescence (n=115) or ELISA (n=97). Consecutive healthy donors (n=549; male, n=518) were also studied by ELISA (n=266) or chemiluminescence (n=283). The cumulative prevalence detected by rapid test kit and ELISA/chemiluminescence tests of hepatitis B (n=10) and C (n=2) among donors deferred due to a history of jaundice (n=212) was 5.7 per cent [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.9, 9.9]. The prevalence of reactive results among healthy donors (n=549) by ELISA/chemiluminescence tests was 3.3 per cent (95% CI: 1.9, 5.2), which included hepatitis B (n=15) and hepatitis C (n=3) cases. Compared to healthy donors, the odds of seropositivity among jaundice-deferred donors was 1.7 (95% CI: 0.8, 3.6), P=0.15. For rapid test-negative deferred donors, the odds of seropositivity by ELISA/chemiluminescence declined to 0.4 (0.1, 1.5), P=0.19. The prevalence rates of hepatitis B and C in prospective blood donors deferred due to a history of jaundice of unknown aetiology did not differ significantly from that in healthy donors. The current practice of permanently deferring such donors depletes valuable donor pool. A strategy of rejecting only those donors who are found reactive on pre-donation testing by rapid test needs further validation.

Identifying Patient Characteristics Associated With the Occurrence of Post Treatment Non-serious Adverse Events After Cervical Spine Manual Therapy Treatment in Patients With Neck Pain

ObjectivesTo compare prevalence rates of serious and non-serious adverse events after manipulation and mobilization and to identify risk factors of serious and non-serious adverse events following 4 types of manual therapy treatment in patients with neck pain. DesignA prospective cohort study in primary care manual therapy practice. ParticipantsPatients with neck pain (N=686) provided data on adverse events after 1014 manipulation treatments, 829 mobilization treatments, 437 combined manipulation and mobilization treatments, and 891 treatments consisting of “other treatment modality”. InterventionsUsual care manual therapy. Main Outcome MeasuresA chi-square test was performed to explore differences in prevalence rates. Logistic regression analysis was performed within the 4 treatment groups. A priori we defined associations between patient-characteristics and adverse events of odds ratio (OR)>2 or OR<0.5 as clinically relevant. ResultsNo serious adverse events, such as cervical artery dissection or stroke, were reported. With regard to non-serious adverse events, we found that these are common after manual therapy treatment: prevalence rates are ranging from 0.3% to 64.7%. We found a statistically significant difference between the 4 types of treatments, detrimental to mobilization treatment. Logistic regression analysis resulted in 3 main predictors related to non-serious adverse events after manual therapy treatment: smoking (OR ranges from 2.10 [95% confidence interval [CI] 1.37-3.11] to 3.33 [95% CI 1.83-5.93]), the presence of comorbidity (OR ranges from 2.32 [95% CI 1.22-4.44] to 3.88 [95% CI 1.62-9.26]), and female sex (OR ranges from 0.22 [95% CI 0.11-0.46] to 0.49 [95% CI 0.28-0.86]). ConclusionThere is a significant difference in the occurrence of non-serious adverse events after mobilization compared with manipulation or a combination of manipulation and mobilization. Non-serious adverse events in manual therapy practice are common and are associated with smoking and the presence of comorbidity. In addition, women are more likely to report non-serious adverse events.

Dietary habits, prevalence of obesity and overweight in developed and developing countries

Obesity is the accumulation of excess adipose tissue that affects a person's health and physical and psychosocial well-being. The classification is based on the body mass index, which makes it possible to compare prevalence rates worldwide. Obesity and overweight have become a global epidemic in both developed and developing countries. The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of obesity and overweight in some countries. The results showed that in the last two decades, the prevalence of obesity and overweight in the world has more than doubled. The predominance of obesity and overweight is more pronounced in Western and Westernized countries, which are more developed, than in developing countries where malnutrition and obesity coexist. This global epidemic is seen in adults, adolescents and children without exception of gender. Obesity and overweight are one of the main factors in the increase of non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, musculoskeletal disorders and some types of cancer in the world. Poor diet is the main cause of the growing prevalence of obesity.

A comparative review of the epidemiology of mental disorders in Australia and India.

Mental illness and substance use disorders have been increasing worldwide. Mental illness has a significant impact upon the lives of the individual as well as their loved ones. Mental disorders are known to result in a high level of disability. This article provides a comparative review of the epidemiology of mental disorders in Australia and India, summarizing and comparing prevalence rates in both countries based upon available data. Overall, it is evident that Australia has higher prevalence rates of mental disorders than India, across most diagnostic groups. Australia has the highest prevalence of anxiety disorders whereas India has the highest prevalence of substance use disorders; including tobacco use disorders. The next most prevalent mental disorders in India are depressive disorders. However, there are demographic parameters such as gender and age as well as service-provision differences across the countries that need to be factored into any interpretation of the data. There are also problems associated with different diagnostic instruments with language and cultural nuances that may impact comparisons. We suggest that a joint epidemiological survey between the two countries would help better understand and delineate the key similarities pertaining to the epidemiology of mental disorders in Australia and India. This will in turn assist with the development of policy and treatment of mental disorders.