Decade Of Age Research Articles

Multiomic profiling reveals timing of menopause predicts prefrontal cortex aging and cognitive function.

A new case of dementia is diagnosed every 3 s. Beyond age, risk prediction of dementia is challenging. There is growing evidence of underlying processes that connect aging across organ systems and may provide insight for early detection, and there is a need to identify early biomarkers at an age when action can be taken to mitigate cognitive decline. We hypothesized that timing of menopause, a marker of ovarian aging, predicts brain age decades later. We used 2086 subjects with multiple "omics" measurements from post-mortem brain samples. Age at menopause (AAM) is positively correlated with cognitive function and negatively correlated with pre-frontal cortex aging acceleration (calculated as estimated biological age from DNA methylation minus chronological age). Genetic correlations showed that at least part of these associations is derived from shared heritability. To dissect the mechanism linking AAM to cognitive decline, we turned to transcriptomic data which confirmed that later AAM was associated with gene expression in pre-frontal cortex consistent with better cognition, and among those who reached menopause naturally, decreased gene expression of pathways implicated in aging. Those with surgical menopause displayed different molecular changes, including perturbed nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) activity, validated by metabolomics. Bile acid metabolism was perturbed in both groups, although different bile acid ratios were associated with AAM in each. Together, our data suggest that AAM is predictive of brain aging and cognition, with potential mediation by the gut, although through different mechanisms depending on the type of menopause.

Aortic dimensions in a large Australian adult cohort. New normal range?

Abstract Background There is little published data worldwide about the normal range of aortic dimensions in adults. Guidelines for dilated aortic dimensions and recommendations for surgery are based on small population cohorts and absolute values. Adjustment for BSA and height are becoming more accepted, however the normal range of aortic dimensions for a large population has not been previously published. We present the distribution of aortic dimensions in a large Australian population, with indexation for BSA and height as well as centiles of age. Methods All patients >18 years of age attending for routine echocardiography at our institution from 2007-2022 were included in the database. Measurements of aortic root, sinotubular junction and ascending aorta using ASE criteria were collated. Dimensions were adjusted for BSA and height. Data was analysed for centiles of weight and height and across decades of age. Results A total of 117,912 patients were included in the analysis, aged 62.8+17.6 years (range 18-107), 59% male, 83.7+21.1 kgs (range 32-337) and 169.8+10.3 cm (range 107-218). The aortic root and ascending aortic dimensions are presented in absolute values (average + SD), and height adjusted (cm/m) and BSA adjusted (cm/m2) values. Data was expressed per centile of height, age and weight. There was a progressive increase in aortic dimensions as expected for increasing height, however a robust relationship was identified when dimensions were indexed according to height at all centiles regardless of age and body weight. In contrast, when adjusted for BSA, the aortic dimensions were progressively and predictably under-reported in patients over 80kg for assessment for normal vs dilated. When analysed for centiles of age, there was a small progressive increase in dimensions observed with increasing age. The indexation for height was independently robust across patients of all centiles of height. Conclusion Aortic dimensions are consistently 2.0+0.5 cm/m when adjusted for patient height across all body weight and age centiles. Adjustment for BSA in patients over 80kg tends to under-represent aortic dimensions when assessing for dilatation. Dimensions tend to increase gently with increasing age. We propose a new nomogram for normal aortic dimensions in adults.

Assessment of psychological resilience in a large cohort of the general population: Validation and norm values of the RS-5.

Psychological resilience is known as a protective factor against mental health disorders for which valid measures are indispensable. The present work aims to evaluate the Resilience Scale-5 (RS-5) psychometrically, and provide norm values. Data from the Gutenberg Health Study (GHS), encompassing 7,496 participants aged 25 to 86, spanning the years 2017 to 2022, was used. Selectivity, item difficulty, internal consistency, construct and factor validity, as well as factorial invariance were tested. Additionally, correlations and associations with depression, anxiety, and sociodemographic factors were determined. Furthermore, norm values were provided. The RS-5 displayed robust psychometric properties. Participants reported an average resilience score of 28.94 (SD = 5.53, median = 30, IQR = 6, range = 5-35), with those aged ≥75 exhibiting the highest resilience levels (M = 30.21, SD = 5.75, median = 32, IQR = 7). The RS-5 displayed a very good model fit, affirming measurement invariance across sex and age decades. Construct validity found support through anticipated intercorrelations with related psychological constructs. Significant correlations (p < .001) linked higher resilience with female gender, advanced age, higher education, elevated household income, and diminished psychological distress. The RS-5 emerged as a reliable and economic instrument for assessing psychological resilience in individuals aged 25 to 86. The study unraveled distinct sociodemographic characteristics significantly tied to resilience levels within this cohort. In contributing recent norm values tailored to the German population, this research enhances the practical applicability of the RS-5 across diverse contexts and enriches our comprehension of the demographic nuances associated with psychological resilience.

Factors associated with attitudes toward death and dying in the second half of life: A scoping review

How we think and feel about death and dying affects how we live our lives and our opportunities for healthy aging. This scoping review, using the PRISMA guidelines and drawing on the World Health Organizations public health framework for healthy aging, examined the personal, health and environmental factors associated with attitudes toward death and dying in persons 50 years and older. Most of the 74 eligible studies focused only on negative attitudes to death and few studies investigated the comprehensive range of factors that influence attitudes to death and dying. In the context of population aging and the United Nations Decade of healthy aging (2021–2030) attention to death attitudes and the factors that influence them are imperative to enable current and future generations to age and die well.

Integrative nursing interventions: knowledge, attitudes and practice in home nursing services in Germany-a quantitative and qualitative online survey.

Integrative nursing interventions (INI) play a significant role in healthcare, particularly in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. Integrating evidence-based INI into healthcare aligns with global initiatives such as the WHO's Decade of Healthy Aging 2020-2030. Many INI are low-threshold practices, empowering patients to independently manage health. However, the extent to which INI are used by home-care nursing-services (HNS) remains largely unknown. This study aims to explore the field of INI in German HNS regarding nurses' use of INI as well as attitudes, subjective knowledge, and information needs on the subject. A cross-sectional anonymous online survey with 29 Likert scale items and two open-ended questions was conducted between April 2023 and July 2023. The survey targeted nurse managers of HNS in Baden-Württemberg, Germany. Descriptive analysis was performed for quantitative data, while content analysis according to Kuckartz was applied to analyze open-ended text responses. In total, n = 68 out of n = 1,331 HNS took part in the survey yielding a response rate of 5.1%. Their overall attitude toward INI was clearly positive (10-point Likert scale M ± SD: 8.37 ± 2.22). The average self-assessed knowledge level about INI was moderate (M ± SD: 5.39 ± 2.76). Almost half of the participants (45.6%) declared to incorporate INI in patient care. Most participants (84.2%) lacked employees with additional qualifications in INI. The INI used most were medicinal herbal teas (61%), compresses (57%), and aromatherapy (48%). Acupressure showed the greatest disparity between actual use in participating HNS (4.3%) and interest in further education (61%). The most common symptoms for which INI are used are pain, respiratory problems, anxiety, and palliative care. The main challenges reported for the use of INI in HNS are financial aspects, qualification and limited resources (staff and time). This exploratory study provides the first insights into nurses' attitudes, self-assessed knowledge, and utilization of INI in German HNS. Overall response rate was low (5.1%), therefore, the results should be interpreted with caution. Urgent action is needed to address financial aspects and further education on INI, to promote integration of INI in HNS to the best possible extent.

B-345 The PSA and free PSA Concentrations in Serum of Apparently Healthy Subjects Using the Atellica IM hsPSA and fPSAII Assays

Abstract Background PSA assays are recommended in the screening for prostate cancer (PC) among males 50 years and older. Those with PSA results in the gray zone (between 4 ng/mL and 10 ng/mL) and a nonsuspicious digital rectal examination (DRE) may be further tested with the free PSA (fPSA) assays to improve detection of PC. PSA and fPSA are also detected in apparently healthy subjects. The goal of this study was to evaluate the distribution of high sensitivity PSA (hsPSA), fPSAII, and %fPSAII (fPSAII/hsPSA x 100) values generated on the Atellica® IM Analyzer among apparently healthy subjects by age decade. Methods Serum samples were prospectively collected from apparently healthy subjects at multiple sites across the United States: 673 males 50-70+ years presenting at primary care facilities for routine PSA testing (&amp;gt;120 samples in each age decade (50-59, 60-69, 70+ years) and 113 samples in each of two younger decades (30-39, 40-49 years). Distribution statistics include the mean, median, interquartile range, 2.5th, 95th, and 97.5th percentiles. Results In this study, using samples from healthy men 30-70+ years (N=786), it was observed that median hsPSA results increased with every decade from 0.682 ng/mL at 30-39 years to 2.183 ng/mL at age 70+ years. The 97.5th percentiles were below 4.0 ng/mL in men &amp;lt;50 years, and above 4.0 ng/mL in men &amp;gt;50 years. All men (100%) 30-49 years had an hsPSA result below 4.0, and 95.5% of men 50-59 years had an hsPSA result below 4.0. The percent of subjects with hsPSA values above the cut-off of 4.0 was 6.6% among men 60-69 years and 12.4% among men &amp;gt;70 years. Median hsPSA values for each age group were comparable to median PSA values reported for healthy men older than 50 years old without cancer undergoing routine health check-ups in the United States and other countries (median hsPSA value was 0.90 among men 50-59 years). For both hsPSA and fPSAII, it was observed that average values increased with each successive decade for subjects 30-70+ years. The range across decades was 0.904-2.183 ng/mL for hsPSA and 0.23-0.46 ng/mL for fPSAII. However, the average %fPSAII (fPSA/hsPSAx100) values did not consistently rise over time because hsPSA variances also increase, a pattern previously documented. Conclusions The distribution of Atellica® IM hsPSA and fPSAII assay values from apparently healthy males was determined. CAUTION: Investigational Device. Not available for sale. Future availability cannot be guaranteed. The results are preliminary and were achieved in unique setting with no expected timeline for completion.

Seroconversion Toxoplasmosis as a predictor for gestational diabetes mellitus among pregnant ladies in Iraq

Background. Toxoplasma gondii (T.g.) can reach many host organs including the pancreas and pancreatic tissue may be directly attacked and compromised by the organisms. Aim. This study aimed to evaluate the risk of toxoplasmosis infestation as a predictor of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) among pregnant ladies in Thi-Qar, Southern Iraq. Methodology. A case-control study was conducted on 151 pregnant ladies classified (61) with GDM and (89) healthy pregnant ladies attending a tertiary Endocrine Center. All patient data were gathered from direct interviews and the digital records of the tertiary center, which used an internal network system and Microsoft Access program. Each pregnant woman was diagnosed with new GDM according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA) definition criteria. Results. The mean ages of the whole participants were 28 ±6 years old and more than half of them were in the second decade of life, their mean weight was 75.38±13.29) kg and their body mass index was 29.82 ± 5.23 (Kg/m2). Family history of DM, history of toxoplasmosis infestation, and positive serological test of IgG for toxoplasmosis was significantly predominant among women with GDM rather than those without (p-value= 0.007, 0.002, 0.004 respectively). Conclusions. The second decade of age is the independent risk factor for developing new GDM, while toxoplasmosis infestation and positive IGG were additive-dependent risk factors for developing new GDM in collaboration with other patients' profiles. Pregnant women with GDM were significantly older, heavier in body weight, and obese than those without GDM making them at higher risk factors for getting hyperglycemia.

Prevalence of peripheral artery disease in young coronary artery disease patients

Background and objectives. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) and coronary artery disease (CAD) are progressive inflammatory conditions caused by arteriosclerosis, typically presenting after the age of 50. However, assessing peripheral vascular disease (PVD) in younger populations may offer early indications of coronary heart disease (CHD) risk. This study investigates the prevalence of abnormal ankle brachial index (ABI) values among young myocardial infarction (MI) patients and examines the correlation of ABI with other cardiovascular risk factors. Material and methods. This cross-sectional study was conducted at Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, involving 147 patients aged 40 years or younger who were admitted with MI symptoms. The study focused on the incidence and severity of MI in relation to age, sex, and the presence of risk factors such as smoking, alcohol use, dyslipidemia, hypertension (HTN), and diabetes mellitus (DM). Results. The study analyzed the incidence of myocardial infarction (MI) in a population under 40 years old. It was found that the incidence rate increased with age within this group. Specifically, males were more frequently affected than females, with 70% of cases occurring in males. Among female participants, all were over 30 years old. In terms of ankle-brachial index (ABI) values, 40% of females exhibited abnormal ABI, compared to 25% of males. Significant risk factors identified included smoking, with 60% of participants reporting tobacco use, alcohol consumption at 50%, and dyslipidemia present in 45% of cases. Hypertension (HTN) and diabetes mellitus (DM) were less prevalent, affecting 20% and 15% of participants, respectively. There was a significant correlation between low ABI values and the use of tobacco (p&lt;0.01) and alcohol (p&lt;0.05). However, the analysis showed no significant relationship between the number of vascular involvements indicated by ABI and the length of hospital stay. The length of hospital stay did increase with patient age, with an average increase of 2 days for every decade of age, but this was not significantly associated with ABI values. Conclusion. ABI is a valuable diagnostic tool in young populations for detecting early signs of CHD, offering advantages over routine blood pressure measurements. This study supports the broader use of ABI in both young and older populations to improve early detection and management of cardiovascular risks. Further research is needed to explore the implications of ABI in routine clinical practice and its correlation with other cardiovascular risk factors.

Blood transfusion in injured older adults: A retrospective cohort study.

We asked how increasing age interacts with transfusion and mortality among older injured adults at our large regional trauma center. Older adults are increasing proportions of acute trauma care and transfusion, but the specific interactions of increasing age with blood product use are unclear. Trauma data (age, injury severity, mechanism, etc.) were linked with transfusion service data (type, timing and numbers of units) for all acute trauma patients treated at our center 2011-2022. Subsets of patients aged ≥55 years were identified by age decade and trends assessed statistically, p < 0.01. Of 73 645 patients, 25 409 (34.5%) were aged ≥55. Within increasing 10-year age cohorts, these older patients were increasingly female (32.2%-67.2%), transferred from outside facilities (55.2%-65.9%) and injured in falls (44.4%-90.3%). Overall, patients ≥55, despite roughly equivalent injury severity, were twice as likely to be transfused (24% vs. 12.8%) as younger patients and to die during hospitalisation (7.5% vs. 2.9%). Cohort survival at all ages and levels of transfusion intensity in the first 4 h of care were more than 50%. Through age 94, numbers of red cell and whole blood units given in the first 4 h of care were a function of injury severity, not age cohort. In our trauma resuscitation practice, patients aged ≥55 years are more likely to receive blood products than younger patients, but numbers of units given in the first 4 h appear based on injury severity. Age equity in acute resuscitation is demonstrated.

Década del Envejecimiento Saludable: Calidad de Vida para los Adultos Mayores

This article deals with health as an inalienable human right of older people, as subjects with full rights, who must access health and life in general with quality, with information, without discrimination or abuse. Living this stage of life in the best conditions is possible by assuming responsibilities and trying to make conscious decisions for healthy aging. The challenge is everyone's task, without forgetting the share of responsibility that we have as pointed out by the WHO towards the Decade of Healthy Aging 2021-2030, declared by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2020, as the main strategy to build a society for all ages.

All-cause and cause-specific mortality risk and loss in life expectancy associated with incident type 2 diabetes onset age and duration.

Evidence on type 2 diabetes onset age and duration on mortality risk has been limited by short follow-up, inadequate control for confounding, missing repeated measurements, and inability to cover the full range of onset age, duration, and major causes of death. Moreover, scarce data dissect how type 2 diabetes onset age and duration shape life expectancy. We evaluate prospectively these topics based on 270,075 eligible participants in the Nurses' Health Studies and Health Professionals Follow-up Study, leveraging repeated measurements throughout up to 40 years of follow-up. Cox models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). In fully adjusted analyses, incident early onset type 2 diabetes (diagnosed <40 years of age) was associated with significantly higher mortality from all-causes (HR, 95% CI was 3.16, 2.64-3.79; vs. individuals without type 2 diabetes), cardiovascular disease (6.56, 4.27-10.1), respiratory disease (3.43, 1.38-8.51), neurodegenerative disease (5.13, 2.09-12.6), and kidney disease (8.55, 1.98-36.9). The relative risk elevations declined dramatically with each higher decade of age at diagnosis for deaths from most of these causes, though the absolute risk difference increased continuously. A substantially higher cumulative incidence of mortality and a greater loss in life expectancy were associated with younger age at type 2 diabetes diagnosis. Longer disease duration was associated with generally higher relative and absolute risk of mortality. Early onset of type 2 diabetes and longer disease duration are associated with substantially increased risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality and greater loss in life expectancy.

Global burden, risk factor analysis, and prediction study of leukaemia from 1990 to 2030.

Leukaemia is a devastating disease with an incidence that progressively increases with advancing age. The World Health Organization has designated 2021-30 as the decade of healthy ageing, highlighting the need to address age-related diseases. We estimated the disease burden of leukaemia and forecasted it by 2030. Based on the Global Burden of Disease 2019 database, we systematically analysed the geographical distribution of leukaemia and its subtypes. We used Joinpoint regression and Bayesian age-period-cohort models to evaluate incidence and mortality trends from 1990 to 2019 and projections through 2030. We analysed five leukaemia subtypes and the impact of age, gender, and social development. Decomposition analysis revealed the effects of disease burden on ageing and population growth. We used frontier analysis to illustrate the potential of each country to reduce its burden based on its development levels. Globally, the absolute numbers of leukaemia incidence and mortality have increased, while the age-standardised rates (ASRs) have shown a decreasing trend. The disease burden was more pronounced in men, the elderly, and regions with a high socio-demographic index (SDI), where ageing and population growth played varying roles across subtypes. From 2000 to 2006, disease burdens were most effectively controlled. Global ASRs of incidence might stabilise, while ASRs of death are expected to decrease until 2030. Frontier analysis showed that middle and high-middle SDI countries have the most improvement potential. Smoking and high body mass index were the main risk factors for leukaemia-related mortality and disability-adjusted life years. The absolute number of leukaemia cases has increased worldwide, but there has been a sharp decline in ASRs over the past decade, primarily driven by population growth and ageing. Countries with middle and high-middle SDI urgently need to take action to address this challenge.

Age-associated risk of sarcopenia, falls and fractures: results of Ukrainian cohort study

Background. It is well-known that sarcopenia increases the risk of falls and fractures, and therefore, requires correction to improve the quality of life of elderly people. This research purposed to study the age-related changes in the sarcopenia risk, falls, and fractures in Ukrainian women in the late reproductive and postmenopausal periods. Materials and methods. We examined 573 females aged from 40 to 89 years old. The subjects were grouped by age decades and presence of high sarcopenia risk (HSR). The SARC-F questionnaire measured the sarcopenia risk, and the risk of falls using the Desmond Fall Risk Questionnaire, the 10-year probability of major osteoporotic and hip fractures was assessed by FRAX, and daily activity — according to the IADL scale. Also, we performed the hand grip strength and five-repetition sit-to-stand tests. Results. The frequency of HSR increased with age from 1.5 % in the 40–49-year-old group to 73.7 % in subjects over 80, as well as fracture and fall risks (p &lt; 0.00001 for both indices) related to decreasing independence in the subject’s everyday life. Also, we revealed age-dependent loss of muscle strength according to the hand grip and the five-repetition sit-to-stand tests. After the adjustment of the subjects by age we found that the females with HSR had a higher risk of falls, a lower level of independence, and increased frequency and risk of osteoporotic fractures. Conclusions. Women with HSR have a higher risk of falls, fractures, and more limitations in daily living activities independently from age and body mass index. These findings request comprehensive management of older women with attention to various parameters for the increase of independence and quality of life.

Prevalence of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and obesity and their correlation with quality of life among elderly people living in old age homes of Kamrup, Assam

Background: The world population is rapidly ageing due to increased longevity and decreased mortality rates. The United Nations has declared 2021-2030 as the decade of healthy ageing. To attain this concept, the ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life (QoL) of elderly people by early detection and prevention of complications of non-communicable diseases. Changes in family structure and psycho-social values in today's era often compel the elderly to shift to old age homes (OAHs). Thus, this study aimed to estimate the prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and obesity in the elderly living in OAHs and their correlation with QoL. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted at the OAHs of Kamrup (M), Assam for twelve months. A sample of 300 elderly living in OAHs was selected and data was collected using a pre-designed, pre-tested schedule. All the respondents were screened and evaluated for diabetes mellitus, hypertension and obesity. Their quality of life was assessed using WHOQOL-BREF and correlated with blood pressure, blood sugar values and anthropometric indicators. Results: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension and obesity were found to be 32.33%, 37% and 37.33% respectively. On spearman rank correlation the relation between blood pressure, random blood sugar values and anthropometric indicators with QoL was found to be significant. Conclusions: This high prevalence necessitates the adoption of various strategies to combat the burden, promote healthy lifestyle behaviour and provide proper care with counselling to improve the QoL in elderly.

Implications of Age for the Diagnostic and Prognostic Value of Cardiac Troponin T and I.

The influence of age on cardiac troponin is unclear and may vary between cardiac troponin T (cTnT) and I (cTnI). We aimed to compare the impact of age on the diagnostic and prognostic utility of cTnT and cTnI. This Danish nationwide, register-based cohort study included patients with at least one cardiac troponin (cTn) measurement from 2009 through June 2022, stratified into decades of age. We used peak cTn concentration during admission, dichotomized as positive/negative and normalized to the 99th percentile. Receiver operating characteristics for myocardial infarction (MI) and logistic regression were used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) for mortality at 1 year. We included 541 817 patients; median age 66 years (interquartile range [IQR] 51-77) and 256 545 (47%) female. A total of 40 359 (7.4%) had an MI, and 59 800 (14.1%) patients died within 1 year of admission. The predictive ability of both cTns for MI were highest for patients 30 to 50 years. This was most pronounced for cTnT, the specificity of which fell from 83% among patients 40 to 49 years to 4% for patients ≥90 years. The prognostic ability of both cTns for 1-year mortality declined with age. cTnT had stronger prognostic ability for all age-groups; OR for a positive cTnT 28.4 (95% CI, 20.1-41.0) compared with 9.4 (95% CI, 5.0-16.7) for cTnI among patients <30 years. The predictive and prognostic ability of cTnT and cTnI declined with age. cTnT had a low specificity for MI in elderly patients. However, cTnT was the strongest prognostic marker among all age groups.

New equation for estimation of dental age by tooth cementum thickness in adolescents and adults: forensic aspects.

Our research was aimed to establish the equation and to determine its precision for dental age estimation in adolescents, adults and the elderly based on the thickness of deposited dental cement. The study sample consisted of 206 donor teeth of both sexes (10 to 82 years of age). The roots were transversely cut (6 cuts) on an ISOMET 1000 cutter at apical, middle, and cervical parts (slice thickness 0.3 to 0.5μm). Measurements of cement thickness on incisions were made with a light microscope and an Olympus EP50 camera with previous microscope calibration for each measurement episode. Measurements were carried out clockwise at 4 measuring points on each incision. Statistical analyses were conducted using statistical software packages STATISTICA version 12.0 StatSoft, Inc. 2013, and MedCalc® version 22.0. Mean cement thickness (MCT) significantly declined from apical to cervical cuts (P < 0.001, ANOVA) and was thicker in teeth with a destroyed tooth crown (P < 0.001, ANOVA) and in molars compared to incisors (P < 0.001, ANOVA). MCT was greater in men and in teeth with more than one root but without reaching statistical significance. MCT showed a significant increase from the second decade of chronological age with a peek at sixth decade and declined to the ninth decade (P < 0.001, ANOVA). Piecewise linear regression defined a breakpoint age of 53 years, so two different equations were calculated (≤ 53 years and > 53 years). The resulting equation is recommended for estimating dental age in forensic analyses.

The experiences of daily smartphone use among older adults in Brazil: A grounded theory analysis

BackgroundDigital inclusion of older people is an important agenda for the future and well-being of the older population, as it represents a form of social inclusion with significant gains for healthy aging. The present study aimed to understand the experiences of Brazilian older adults who use smartphones and the implications in their daily lives. MethodA qualitative study was developed using a constructivist grounded approach. Older people (≥60 years) with prior access to a smartphone were invited to participate in the study. Participation took place through semi-structured, audio-recorded interviews. Data collection and analysis occurred simultaneously using a constant comparative approach. Data management and analysis used the Atlas.ti® software. ResultsOverall, 37 older people participated, with an average age of 70.60 ± 6.95 years, predominantly female (n = 33), white (n = 25), married (n = 26) and retired (n = 27). The first sample group included 27 older people with family support and the second group included 10 older people without family support (who lived alone in their homes). A core category emerged from the data analysis—“Expanding the personal and social development of older adults through smartphone communication”—around which three main categories emerged: 1) The smartphone as “a window to the world”; 2) The problem of misinformation and fake news on virtual networks; 3) Technological paradoxes in the use of smartphones. ConclusionsThe digital transition associated with smartphone use brings unimaginable benefits to older adults who adopt positive habits to improve their well-being and expand their social connections, following efforts proposed by the Decade of Healthy Aging. However, older adults still face disparities and experience a significant digital divide, which represents a major challenge. Barriers to access are further aggravated in developing countries. We hope this study contributes to public health policies on digital inclusion and healthy aging.

Prevalence of cancer survivors in the United States.

With aging of the population and improvements in diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care, the number of cancer survivors in the United States (US) has increased; updated prevalence estimates are needed. Cancer prevalence on January 1, 2022 was estimated using the Prevalence Incidence Approach Model, utilizing incidence, survival, and mortality. Prevalence by age decade, sex, and time from diagnosis were calculated. The percentage of cancer survivors in the projected US population by age and sex was calculated as the ratio of the sex-specific projected prevalence to the sex-specific projected US population. There were an estimated 18.1 million US cancer survivors as of January 1, 2022. From 2022 to 2030, the number of US cancer survivors is projected to increase to 21.6 million; by 2040, the number is projected to be 26 million. Long-term survivors are highly prevalent; in 2022, 70% of cancer survivors survived 5 years or more after diagnosis, and 11% of cancer survivors survived 25 years or more after diagnosis. Among all US females aged 40-54, 3.6% were cancer survivors; among females aged 65-74, 14.5% were cancer survivors; among females aged 85 and older, 36.4% were cancer survivors. Among all US males aged 40-54, 2.1% were cancer survivors; among males aged 65-74, 16% were cancer survivors; among those aged 85 and older, 48.3% were cancer survivors. Cancer survivors are growing in number. In the US, most cancer survivors are long-term and very long-term survivors, representing a significant proportion of the US population.

Iranian Normative Data for the Trail-Making Test Stratified by Age, Gender, and Education

Purpose: Executive functions and attention are often impaired in neurological, medical, and psychiatric disorders. This study aimed to, in addition to collecting Iranian normative data, examine whether the demographic variables are associated with performance in one of the most widely used neuropsychological tools to measure cognitive status. Materials and Methods: The present study as part of the Iranian Brain Imaging Database (IBID) was implemented on three hundred medically and cognitively healthy people aged 20 to 70. Each decade consisted of 60 participants and the gender proportion was equal in each decade. Five decades of age (20 to 70 years old) and scores obtained in the Trail Making Test (TMT; defined in terms of two scores of the completion time of its two parts A and B) were the independent and dependent variables, respectively. Results: According to correlation coefficients, age and education had a significant negative and positive association with both parts A and B (p=0.01), respectively, with no significant association between gender and TMT scores (p&gt;0.05). According to multivariate analysis of variance, the interaction of age, gender, and education did not lead to a significant difference in the TMT scores (p=0.309). Tukey's post hoc test showed that participants under 40 took significantly less time to complete TMT-A than those over 50, while in TMT-B, participants under 30 years completed in a shorter time than those over 30 years old (p&lt;0.01). Conclusion: Our findings indicate that age and education have a significant association with the performance of the Iranian healthy population in the well-known measure of executive function and attention, and it is necessary to interpret TMT scores using normative data gathered in regional settings.

Inter-University Network for Healthy Aging, Latin America and the Caribbean (RIES-LAC): a university contribution to the Decade of Healthy Aging

Inter-University Network for Healthy Aging, Latin America and the Caribbean (RIES-LAC): a university contribution to the Decade of Healthy Aging