German-speaking Countries Research Articles

Development of items for the assessment of paediatric incontinence-associated dermatitis in German: Delphi study

Development of items for the assessment of paediatric incontinence-associated dermatitis in German: Delphi study Abstract: Background: Paediatric incontinence-associated dermatitis (PIAD) is a common problem in premature infants, neonates, infants and young children. Standardized instruments for the assessment of PIAD can support clinical decision-making, but no standardized instrument is yet available for German-speaking countries. Aim: Selection, development and agreement of appropriate items for the assessment of PIAD in newborns, infants and young children in German (aIADchild Delphi). Method: Using a Delphi technique, international items were formulated in German by a steering committee, the items were assessed by panellists using an online survey, and a consensus (I-CVI > = 75%, comments) was formed by the steering committee and panellists. Results: 54 experts from four German-speaking countries were recruited. 44 (1st round) and 33 (2nd round) completed the questionnaire in full. Twelve items for the assessment of PIAD were rated as relevant, comprehensive and comprehensibility: erythema, skin change without and with damage to the skin surface, exudation, bleeding, oedema, overheating, signs of mycotic/bacterial superinfection, pain, itching, localization/extension and duration. Conclusion: The items aIADchild Delphi for the assessment of PIAD in German should be tested for their measurement properties prior to clinical use and the construction of an instrument.

First experiences with the introduction of genetic counselors in human genetic services in the German-speaking countries.

In 2019, the Medical University of Innsbruck introduced the first Genetic and Genomic Counseling master's program in the German-speaking countries. A major challenge of this process was the absence of practicing Genetic Counselors (GC) in these countries, leading to a lack of experience with GCs in medical genetic services and the absence of a legal framework for the profession. Consequently, student placements within the program commenced with neither the students nor their supervising consultants having any previous experience of collaborative teamwork between clinical geneticists and GCs. To share insights from the initial implementation phase, supervising consultants from the seven student placement institutes were invited to participate in semi-structured interviews guided by open-ended questions. From these interviews, three models of interprofessional teamwork between GCs and clinical geneticists emerged: (1) the alternating or tandem model, (2) qualified preliminary and follow-up patient interviews, and (3) the provision of genetic (counseling) services without genetic counseling in the legal sense. In addition, the interviewees provided recommendations for addressing legal concerns and for the effective establishment of appropriate compensation structures for GCs within the German-speaking countries. Clinical geneticists taking part in the study estimated that the integration of GCs could potentially enhance their counseling capacity by as much as 50%. Importantly, they did not foresee any reduction in counseling quality caused by the inclusion of GCs. This study provides evidence that the GC profession can provide additional skills to human genetic services and positively impact both patient support and overall capacity of genetic services also in the German-speaking countries.

DEVELOPMENT OF HIGHER MEDICAL EDUCATION ABROAD IN THE STUDIES OF UKRAINIAN COMPARATIVISTS

The article presents a synthesized historiographical analysis of Ukrainian pedagogical comparativistsʼ works on the development of higher medical education in foreign countries, identifying trends, achievements, bottlenecks, and prospects for studying this problem. The presented sample of dissertations, monographs, and textbooks demonstrated their narrow country-specific vector and similarity in formulating the subject of research. Historiographical and comparative analysis revealed similar approaches of scientists to determining trends in the development and functioning of national systems of professional training for doctors. These concern the preservation and expansion of decentralization in higher medical education management; strengthening the interaction of its various links; shifting emphasis in determining the prerequisites for the development of national higher medical education systems from “traditional” factors (political, socio-economic, cultural situation of the country, etc.) to clarifying the influences of international medical organizations and documents in the field of healthcare that substantiate general strategies for training doctors in higher medical education institutions, etc. Scientists also propose original approaches to studying the functioning of national systems of higher medical education. These are manifested in the development of authors periodizations and classifications of the specified process; thorough characteristics of university environments for training future doctors in different countries; comprehensive understanding of the determinants of their formation and development, which, in addition to social, economic, and cultural factors of the country's development, relate to the level of education of the population, its multiculturalism, the specifics of educational systems, etc. In these perspectives, the analyzed studies mark two main country-specific vectors of research in higher medical education: “overseas” (USA and Canada) and “European” (mainly Great Britain, Poland, and German-speaking countries).

Minority stress and psychological well-being in queer populations

Queer individuals experience unique stressors related to their minority status, negatively impacting their mental health. One factor contributing to these disparities is exposure to minority stress, which involves social stressors related to minority status. Previous research has focused on the negative impacts of minority stress, with less attention to its impact on positive psychological functioning. This study explored the relationship between minority stress and psychological well-being among 270 queer individuals in German-speaking countries. Participants completed an online survey assessing minority stress and psychological well-being. Analyses of Covariance indicated that proximal factors of minority stress—such as self-stigma, concealment, and expectations of rejection—had a particularly negative impact on psychological well-being, but no effects could be found for gender and sexual orientation. Additionally, gender identity but not sexual orientation had a significant effect on minority stress, with non-binary and other gender identities reporting higher minority stress compared to females. Thematic analysis revealed concerns about survey inclusivity, gender identity challenges, and intersectionality of minority identities. Our findings emphasize the significant impact of minority stress on the psychological well-being of queer individuals, particularly non-binary people and those with diverse gender identities, while demonstrating the need for inclusive research methodologies, tailored interventions, and policies addressing the diverse experiences within the queer community.

Modelling mathematics for educational research and practice: a comparison of two theoretical approaches

AbstractThe production and use of explicit models of mathematics are important elements of research in Didactics of Mathematics. In this paper, we present and compare two different European approaches to didactical modelling. The first, centred around the notion of basic idea (Grundvorstellung), arose in German-speaking countries as a development within Subject Matter Didactics (Stoffdidaktik). The second is the notion of praxeology from the Anthropological Theory of the Didactic, which originated in France. After presenting the genesis and interpretation of these notions as theoretical modelling tools, we provide a detailed case study of actual models produced with these tools, concerning the notion of limits and derivatives. Furthermore, we identify similarities and differences of both models in how they can support didactical research and practice, for instance, by identifying important phenomena or problems. We conclude that the two approaches offer important, different and, to some extent, complementary positions and perspectives.

Digital tools in primary total knee arthroplasty-Prevalence in the German-speaking region

Digital tools are being increasingly used worldwide in primary knee arthroplasty. This study aimed to analyze the utilization density of digital tools, the preferred alignment strategies, and the obstacles and benefits of implementing these technologies in German-speaking countries. An online survey with 57questions about digital tools in primary knee arthroplasty and their usage was conducted among members of the Arthroplasty Working Group (AE). The survey included questions on navigation, robotics, patient-specific instruments, individualized implants, and augmented reality. The survey revealed that 18% of hospitals use navigation and 17% use robotic systems in primary total knee arthroplasty surgery. The main reasons for not implementing supportive technologies were high acquisition and ongoing costs, as well as longer surgical duration. Patient-specific instruments and individualized implants currently play aminor role. Patient-specific alignment strategies, such as kinematic (navigation: 35%; robotics: 44%) and functional alignment (navigation: 15%; robotics: 35%), are preferred in this context. With conventional instrumentation predominantly mechanical alignment was applied (79%). The results indicate arelatively high utilization density of digital tools, which are mainly used to perform personalized alignment strategies in primary knee arthroplasty in German-speaking countries. This was particularly evident in high-volume hospitals. Economic aspects were the main reasons for not using these technologies. Future developments should aim to simplify the systems and thus achieve improved cost efficiency.

Literature review, surgical decision making algorithm, and AGREE II-S comparison of national and international recommendations and guidelines in pelvic organ prolapse surgery.

The average lifespan has increased over time due to improvements in quality of life, leading to an aging population that stays healthy for longer. Pelvic organ prolapse (POP), whether uterine or vaginal, is a problem that severely impairs quality of life and imposes significant restrictions. The present study provides the reader with a summary of the many surgical techniques used in POP surgery, comparing international guidelines, offering an algorithm that is simple to understand, and allows the reader to quickly choose the table that includes the best surgical therapy for each individual. Using relevant keywords, the writers searched the PubMed and Scopus databases for relevant publications from 2000 to April 2023. Studies with cases of oncologic disorders or prior hysterectomy performed for another reason were not included in the analysis. Ten distinct international guidelines are highlighted and examined in the present study. We used the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II-S (AGREE II-S) method to assess their quality, and incorporated the results into the conclusion. Worldwide, anterior colporrhaphy is the preferred method of treating anterior compartment abnormalities, and mesh is virtually always used when recurrence occurs (which happens in about half of the cases). Worldwide, posterior colporrhaphy is commonly used to repair posterior compartment abnormalities. Only a few national guidelines (the Iranian guideline, Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica [AOGS], and the German-speaking countries) permit the use of mesh or xenograft in cases of recurrence. There is agreement on the abdominal approach (sacrocolpopexy) with mesh for treating apical deformities. Sacrospinous-hysteropexy is the standard method used to guide the vaginal approach; mesh is typically used to aid in this process. There are just three recommendations that do not include vaginal operations: HSE, AOGS, and Iran. Of obliteration techniques, colpocleisis is unquestionably the best. In conclusion, our analysis highlights the significance of customized methods in POP surgery, taking into account the requirements and preferences of each patient. To choose the best surgical therapy, criteria and patient features must be carefully considered.

Subtle Biases Towards a New Colleague Depend on Sexual Orientation and Relationship Status

Abstract Background Allonormative beliefs entail the idea that all people desire sexual activity with other people. Single and/or asexual individuals may face social disapproval or discrimination for not being in line with allonormative beliefs. The present study investigated whether individuals offered help or were likely to befriend a new co-worker differently depending on the co-worker’s sexual orientation (i.e., heterosexual vs. asexual) and relationship status (i.e., in a relationship vs. single). Methods The online study included 1,028 participants (50.0% women and 50.0% men; Mage = 29.2, SD = 8.8) from German-speaking countries. Each participant read one of twelve short descriptions of a working situation in which they got to know a new co-worker. The description of the new colleague’s gender, sexual orientation, and relationship status varied. Participants had to indicate how likely they would share information with, befriend, gossip about, or have other-interests in the new colleague. A multivariate analysis of co-variance was calculated. Results Female participants had lower intentions to share knowledge with persons who were singles by circumstance than with persons in a relationship and male participants were more likely to befriend a single gay man by choice than a gay man in a relationship. Conclusions Bias against single persons or prejudice resulting from heteronormative beliefs might lead to subtle differences in behavior towards a co-worker. Such subtle “micro-practices” can be harmful because micro-practices accumulate over time and situations. Interventions at organizations need to help employees realize their own biases that might be based on prejudices against people with different sexual orientations and relationship statuses. Key messages • Overall women are more pressured by allonormative ideas and might therefore have lower intentions to share knowledge with persons who were singles by circumstance than with persons in a relationship. • The differing treatment of single gay men by choice and gay men in relationships may not be solely due to adherence to allonormativity, but rather could stem from heterosexist beliefs.

Role of clipping in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: a post hoc analysis of the Earlydrain trial

The choice between clipping and coiling of ruptured cerebral aneurysms in subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) remains controversial. The recently published Earlydrain trial provides the opportunity to analyze the latest clip-to-coil ratio in German-speaking countries and to evaluate vasospasm incidence and explorative outcome measures in both treatment modalities. We performed a post hoc analysis of the Earlydrain trial, a multicenter randomized controlled trial investigating the use of an additional lumbar drain in aneurysmal SAH. The decision whether to clip or to coil the ruptured aneurysm was left to the discretion of the participating centers, providing a real-world insight into current aneurysm treatment strategies. Earlydrain was performed in 19 centers in Germany, Switzerland, and Canada, recruiting 287 patients with aneurysmal SAH of all severity grades. Of these, 140 patients (49%) received clipping and 147 patients (51%) coiling. Age and clinical severity based on Hunt-Hess/WFNS grades and radiological criteria were similar. Clipping was more frequently used for anterior circulation aneurysms (55%), whereas posterior circulation aneurysms were mostly coiled (86%, p < 0.001). In high-volume recruiting centers, 56% of patients were treated with clipping, compared to 38% in other centers. A per-year analysis showed a stable and balanced clipping/coiling ratio over time. Regarding vasospasm, 60% of clipped versus 43% of coiled patients showed elevated transcranial Doppler criteria (p = 0.007), reflected in angiographic vasospasm rates (51% vs. 38%, p = 0.03). In contrast to the Earlydrain main results establishing the superiority of an additional lumbar drain, explorative outcomes after clipping and coiling measured by secondary infarctions, mortality, modified Rankin Score, Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended, or Barthel-Index showed no significant differences after discharge and at six months. In clinical practice, aneurysm clipping is still a frequently used method in aneurysmal SAH. Apart from a higher rate of vasospasm in the clipping group, an exploratory outcome analysis showed no difference between the two treatment methods. Further development of periprocedural treatment modalities for clipped ruptured aneurysms to reduce vasospasm is warranted.

Psychometric Properties of a German Version of the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire-Short Form (ERQ-S)

Abstract: The Emotion Regulation Questionnaire-Short Form (ERQ-S) may offer a psychometrically sound and time-efficient alternative to the original ERQ. We analyzed data of 315 participants from the community, as well as of 153 patients (forensic inpatients, patients with schizophrenia, and patients with alcohol use disorder). Our results support the reliability, factorial validity, and concurrent validity of the ERQ-S. With an additional English-speaking sample, we found metric measurement invariance of the ERQ-S. This provides researchers in German-speaking countries with a new, more economical measure of emotion regulation.

Second Victims Among Austrian Nurses (SeViD-A2 Study).

Background: The Second Victim Phenomenon (SVP) significantly impacts the well-being of healthcare professionals and patient safety. While the SVP has been explored in various healthcare settings, there are limited data on its prevalence and associated factors among nurses in Austria. This study investigates the prevalence, symptomatology, and preferred support measures for SVP among Austrian nurses. Methods: A nationwide, cross-sectional, anonymous online survey was conducted September to December 2023 using the SeViD questionnaire (Second Victims in German-speaking Countries), which includes the Big Five Inventory-10 (BFI-10). Statistical analyses included binary logistic regression and multiple linear regression using the bias-corrected and accelerated (BCa) bootstrapping method based on 5000 bootstrap samples. Results: A total of 928 participants responded to the questionnaire with a response rate of 15.47%. The participants were on average 42.42 years old and were mainly women (79.63%). Among the respondents, 81.58% (744/912) identified as Second Victims (SVs). The primary cause of becoming an SV was aggressive behavior from patients or relatives. Females reported a higher symptom load than males, and higher agreeableness was linked to increased symptom severity. Notably, 92.47% of SVs who sought help preferred support from colleagues, and the most pronounced desire among participants was to process the event for better understanding. Conclusions: The prevalence of SVP among Austrian nurses is alarmingly high, with aggressive behavior identified as a significant trigger. The findings emphasize the necessity for tailored support strategies, including peer support and systematic organizational interventions to mitigate the impact of SVP on nurses and to improve overall patient care. Further research should focus on developing and implementing effective prevention and intervention programs for healthcare professionals in similar settings.

Toward Centrality Evaluation of Yearning Symptoms for Prolonged Grief Disorder: A Cross-Cultural Approach

Background: The new ICD-11 diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder (PGD) is characterized by the prominent role of yearning as hallmark symptom. A secondary analysis of eight international datasets on PGD was conducted to evaluate this assumption. Additionally, cross-cultural comparison explored whether the centrality of yearning differs across world regions. Methods: Primary studies originated from German-speaking countries (n = 4 samples), other European countries and Israel (n = 3 samples), as well as China (n = 1 samples). Different PGD measures were used, including yearning and longing as symptoms. For the centrality assessment of yearning, PGD symptoms were ranked by their factor loadings from confirmatory factor analyses, followed by statistical testing to determine significant differences between yearning and other symptoms of PGD in their factor loading estimates. Subsequently, ranking positions of yearning in three world regions (German-speaking, other Europe-Israel, and China) were compared. Finally, proxy thresholds for individuals at high-risk states for PGD were defined for the different datasets, and sensitivity-specificity analyses of yearning were performed. Results: Yearning was ranked high in five out of 12 models tested. In the German-speaking region, it was predominantly ranked among the most central symptoms; in the other Europe-Israel region as well as China, it tended to fall into the middle or lower rankings of symptom centrality. Sensitivity values were consistently high, while specificity values indicated moderate levels. Discussion: In line with previous research on the general outcomes of grief, the present study showed that yearning may be subject to a culture-specific distribution. Other central symptoms such as feeling as if a part of oneself died have also been shown to potentially play a central role in PGD across world regions. On the other hand, the sensitivity-specificity analyses revealed that yearning can be considered a significant (diagnostically highly sensitive) symptom for individuals in high-risk states for PGD, although it has only moderate specificity (i.e., its absence does not necessarily indicate individuals experiencing normative grief). Nonetheless, a culture-sensitive approach to psychopathology should consider the cultural differences in the centrality of this symptom group. More research is needed to better understand the role of yearning and its determinants across world regions.

Women ‘s perception on the quality of maternal and newborn care during the COVID-19 pandemic in German-speaking countries: Findings from the IMAgiNE EURO project comparing data from Germany, Switzerland and Austria

ProblemRestrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic compromised maternal and newborn care. BackgroundCountries in the German speaking area share several clinical care guidelines but differed significantly in the strictness of COVID-19 protective measures. AimTo investigate the quality of maternal and newborn care (QMNC) during the COVID-19 pandemic in the German-speaking area and explore associations between the reorganisational changes due to COVID-19 and QMNC, as described with WHO Standards-based Quality Measures. MethodsAs part of the IMAgiNE EURO study (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04847336), we conducted an online survey on the QMNC in the German-speaking area, including women who gave birth in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. Descriptive statistics, Spearman rank correlation coefficient and multivariable quantile regression were used. FindingsOut of a total of 70,721 women accessing the online questionnaire, 1,875 were included (Germany: n = 1,053, Switzerland: n = 494, Austria: n = 328). Significant differences across countries were found in Quality Measures. In Switzerland, women scored Quality Measures more favourable than in Germany and Austria in all four sub-indexes of QMNC. In Austria, Quality Measures gaps in the sub-index ‘Experience of care’ were higher. The sub-index ‘Reorganisational changes due to COVID-19′ correlated weakly to strongly with the other sub-indexes (between r = 0.33 and r = 0.62, p < 0.001 for all correlations). DiscussionMidwives and other health professional should pay particular attention to the provision of respectful, high-quality care. ConclusionTo effectively improve QMNC, further research is essential to monitor the quality of care and develop targeted interventions beyond the COVID-19 pandemic addressing inherent challenges in the organisation and delivery of care.

Reclaiming Agency Through Conversation: Life Narrative Interviews of German-speaking Jews in Israel

abstract: During the 1990s and 2000s, various authors published collections of oral interviews with Israeli Jews who had been born in German-speaking countries, known as Yekkes . The use of oral testimonies for systematic historical research presents several methodological challenges. However, the Yekke interviews provide a captivating glimpse into a world that no longer exists. This paper explores whether and how historians can use such collections in their work. These oral history interviews, I argue, offer a rare perspective on how Yekkes negotiate their belonging and loyalty between Germany and Israel, between Germanness and Israeliness.

Pädagogische Beziehungen aus Sicht von Lehrpersonen und kindliche Einflussfaktoren

The quality of the student-teacher-relationship undoubtedly has a significant influence on the child's development and learning processes. However, it is not independent of influencing factors on the part of the child. International studies have so far been able to identify a large number of factors influencing the quality of the teacher-student-relationship. Studies from German-speaking countries, on the other hand, have so far only been marginally represented. This cross-sectional study aims to investigate influencing factors of the child (attachment pattern, behavioral problems, gender and socioeconomic status) on the perception of relationship quality from the perspective of teachers with primary school children (N = 44). The results of the multivariate analysis of variance provide an indication that the relationship quality differs depending on the interaction of various child-related influencing factors. In particular, the socio-economic status in the present sample proved to be significant in interaction with the children's attachment pattern and gender. This has implications for a milieu- and gender-sensitive, attachment sensitive and responsive interaction with the children as the basis for a successful student-teacher-relationship.

Pronominal Address in German Sales Talk: Effects on the Perception of the Salesperson

Increasing numbers of commercial enterprises in the German-speaking countries are switching from the traditional formal Sie address for customers to the more casual du address. This article reports on a part of an interdisciplinary empirical study evaluating the effect that the address pronoun used towards the customer has on the perception of the salesperson. Respondents were shown short videos of sales encounters and asked to indicate their perception of the salesperson in a guided questionnaire. The choice of either du or Sie as the address pronoun used by the salesperson in the videos did not make a substantial difference to the way the salesperson was perceived by the respondent group as a whole, but some significant differences appeared within sub-cohorts, which were determined by the gender, age group and education level of respondents, and by the industries in which the videos that the respondents watched were set. The overwhelming majority of the significant differences in the perceptions of the salesperson according to the address pronoun used shows that the salesperson using Sie is seen in a more positive light. This suggests that, somewhat surprisingly and counterintuitively, addressing customers with du does not have the general effect of improving the perception of the salesperson.

Network Activeoncokids - Centralized Physical Activity Counseling for Children, adolescents, and Young Adults Across German-Speaking Countries Throughout All Oncological Treatment Phases.

Reaching age-appropriate physical activity levels is a significant challenge for many children, adolescents, and young adults (CAYAs) with and following an oncological disease. Many CAYAs require support in addressing physical activity-specific questions and need assistance in accessing sports and exercise offers in their local area. Since many clinics cannot provide such time-intensive counseling, the nationwide operating network ActiveOncoKids (NAOK), funded by the German Cancer Aid, offers individualized support to participate in physical activity (PA). This paper describes the NAOK-Physical-Activity-Counseling (-PAC) concept and evaluates the initial 200 consultations, focusing on recruitment, objectives, and oncology-specific parameters. Ultimately, dimensions of barriers and facilitators and intervention options are discussed.

DIVERGENT VALUES OF A PARTICULAR CLASS OF OBSOLETE WORDS: HISTORISMEN

The language of German newspapers in Romania exhibits properties which reflect the synergy that led to the genesis of the present form of this variety of the German language. One main trait consists of preserving the stilistic neutrality of words that are now obsolete in Germany or Austria, hence the effortless play of synonyms that belong to different registers throughout the other German-speaking countries. However, the language contact with Romanian may never be underestimated, and is also observable in respect to the norms that shape the way articles are written. Articles about King Michael I of Romania seem to highlight the fact that the culturally-influenced language norms are known and employed deliberately, of which some actually contrast to Romanian language-culture.

Social cure model: testing the link between identity centrality and body appreciation in diverse sexual orientation and gender identity groups

BackgroundThe level of experienced sociocultural pressure to have an idealized body can vary depending on a person’s gender identity and sexual orientation. The current study explored whether differences in levels of body appreciation among people with different sexual orientations and gender identities vary because of differing levels of experienced pressure by in-group members and varying levels of experienced hostile behaviors because of their looks or body. Thereby, the study tests the social cure model, according to which high levels of identity centrality are associated with better mental health.MethodsAn online cross-sectional questionnaire study was conducted with 1,587 people (51.3% cisgender women, 39.3% cisgender men, 9.5% non-binary; 52.9% identified as heterosexual, 27.7% identified as bisexual/pansexual, 11.2% identified as gay/lesbian, 8.2% identified as asexual/demi/queer; Mage = 32.9, SD = 12.6) from German-speaking countries. Variables were assessed with German-language versions of the Multidimensional and Multicomponent Measure of Social Identification, Body Appreciation Scale-2, the Perceived Stigmatization Questionnaire, and the Sociocultural Attitudes Towards Appearance Questionnaire-4, revised. A manifest-path model was calculated.ResultsNon-binary persons reported lower levels of body appreciation than did cisgender men and sexual minority persons reported lower levels of body appreciation than did heterosexual persons. Furthermore, sexual minority persons experienced more hostile behaviors directed towards them because of their looks or body than did heterosexual persons. Similarly, non-binary persons experienced more hostile behaviors than did men. Non-binary persons were subjected to lower levels of in-group pressure than were men. Gay/lesbian persons and asexual persons were subjected to lower levels of in-group pressure than were heterosexual persons. More hostile behaviors and stronger in-group pressure were related to lower body appreciation. In cisgender women and men indirect links revealed associations between strong identity centrality and low levels of body appreciation through the mediator of high in-group pressure.ConclusionsData in sexual minority individuals or non-binary persons supported the social cure model, according to which persons can find support and validation for their looks and body from in-group members. In cisgender women and men, strong identification as a woman or man can be related to stronger in-group pressure and in turn to lower body appreciation.

Who Guideline for Non-Surgical Management of Chronic Primary Low Back Pain in Adults in Primary and Community Care Settings

Low back pain is a very common condition that affects most people at some point in their lives. It represents a burden on those affected, reducing their ability to participate in activities of normal life; at the same time, dealing with it increases the economic costs of healthcare. The aim of this guideline was to contribute to WHO activities for reducing the impact of low back pain in adults and to support the WHO approach to integrated care for older people in primary care. In December 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) published the "WHO guideline for non-surgical management of chronic primary low back pain in adults in primary and community care settings". It was developed following the process according to the WHO handbook for guideline development. The team at the WHO Collaborating Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine at the University for Continuing Education Krems (Austria) translated the summary of this guideline for its application in German-speaking countries. The guideline addresses 37 interventions for the treatment of chronic primary low back pain in primary care and provides 24 recommendations and one good practice statement. No recommendations were made regarding twelve interventions due to equivocation or lack of sufficient evidence. The recommended interventions are intended to provide a range of options to support and personalize care for adults with chronic primary low back pain.