Healthy Lifestyle Habits Research Articles

Health and Healthy Lifestyle Habits in Primary Education: An Analysis of Spanish Autonomous Curricular Decrees Under the Current Education Law (LOMLOE)

The Spanish basic education curriculum, specifically the section on primary education, addresses global challenges and recognizes schools as essential in health education. Healthy lifestyle habits are fundamental due to their impact on health and well-being, especially in children. This study analyzes the integration of health and healthy lifestyle habits in Spanish autonomous curricular decrees using a qualitative documentary analysis and a comparative approach with a statistical/descriptive basis. The corpus includes the 17 autonomous curricular decrees derived from the Organic Law 3/2020 (LOMLOE). The data, derived from the 17 autonomous curricular decrees, were examined using lexical and grammatical analyses, then processed with Atlas.ti 23 software. The results reveal that the dimensions and categories related to health and healthy lifestyle habits focus mainly on physical aspects. In common areas or fields, physical education and knowledge of the natural, social and cultural environment are the most relevant areas for integrating health and healthy lifestyle habits into the framework in this study. However, the current curriculum proposal lacks continuity between curricular elements. In summary, this study represents a step forward in the recognition of the extent to which health and healthy lifestyle habits are established in the curriculum.

Family-based mobile application needs in childhood obesity management in South Korea: a qualitative study.

It is essential to investigate the users' needs in developing user-centered, family-based applications (apps) for managing childhood obesity. This study conducted focus group interviews with ten parents, ten children, and four app developers to investigate the need to develop a family-based mobile app for childhood obesity. The interview period was from July 17 to August 30, 2023. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The results highlighted 31 key themes critical to family-based app development, including the need for comprehensive content promoting healthy lifestyle habits, tailored expert support, and motivational factors for app engagement, which were categorized as intrinsic, extrinsic, and social motivations and technological features. Participants also highlighted potential challenges, such as app usability issues and the need for a user-friendly interface. The pivotal role of parents in guiding and supporting their children's health behaviors was emphasized, particularly in creating a supportive environment that encourages sustained engagement with the app. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the needs and preferences of parents, children, and app developers in managing childhood obesity. Emphasis on integrating healthy lifestyle content, providing expert support, and incorporating motivational strategies is crucial for the app's success. Additionally, addressing potential difficulties and recognizing the pivotal role of parents are essential considerations. These insights will inform the design and development of a user-centered mobile app that supports families in managing childhood obesity.

THE ROLE OF NURSING IN THE PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF CHILDHOOD OBESITY

Research on nursing interventions in the prevention and control of childhood obesity has addressed three main determinants: sedentary lifestyles, poor diet, and psychosocial and environmental factors. Through an integrative literature review, negative points associated with each determinant were identified, such as increased risk of obesity, nutritional deficiencies, social stigma, and lack of emotional support. However, several nursing interventions have been highlighted as effective in addressing these problems, including nutritional education, promotion of physical activity, psychosocial support, and advocacy for healthy environments. Authors such as Jardim (2017), Borfe et al. (2017), Serra et al. (2018), among others, have contributed significantly to the development of these strategies. The research highlights the role of nurses in promoting child health, highlighting the importance of a multidimensional and collaborative approach to prevent and control childhood obesity. In summary, the results obtained provide valuable insights to improve nursing practices, promoting healthy lifestyle habits, and combating the childhood obesity epidemic.

Promoting a sustainable diet among office workers in Sweden: A pilot Study

Abstract Background Society is facing multiple challenges, including lifestyle-related diseases, alongside global climate change. Actions are needed to promote sustainable lifestyles advocating for healthy and environmentally friendly diets. This study aimed to assess how a sustainable lifestyle, compared to conventional healthy lifestyle education at work, affects participants’ energy intake, nutrient consumption, and diet-related CO2e. Methods An 8 week two-armed randomized trial was conducted, comprising a sustainable lifestyle arm (n = 21) and a healthy lifestyle arm (n = 16) based on the theoretical framework of the Behavioral Change Wheel, in total (n = 33) completed the trial. The office workers participated in 6 workshops during working hours. Linear mixed-effects models and analysis of variance tests were used for data analysis. Changes over time are presented as arms combined, along with their respective mean differences. Results A significant decrease in mean diet-related CO2e was observed (p < 0.001), with a decrease on average of 0.74 and 0.71 kg CO2e/day. The mean change in daily kilocalorie intake had a significant decrease over time (p = 0.008), on average of 192 and 386 Kcal. Moreover, a significant decrease in mean protein intake was observed (p < 0.001), with a decrease on average of 16 and 18 grams, possibly explaining the decrease in CO2e. No significant differences were observed between the arms at any timepoint. Conclusions Promoting sustainable lifestyle habits has a similar impact to advocating for a conventional healthy lifestyle regarding diet. This supports the new Nordic Nutrition Recommendations 2023. Despite the small sample size, insights into facilitating sustainable behaviors can influence public health policies across Europe and the workplace as an arena for health promotion. Key messages • The promotion of sustainable and healthy lifestyle habits at work can promote both individual and planetary health by decreasing diet-related CO2e emissions. • Here we demonstrate that the workplace has the potential to act as an arena to combat climate change.

Physical activity and sedentarism among non-binary gender identified university students

Abstract Background Physical inactivity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) are modifiable risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Data indicates that non-binary gender identified people find it difficult to perform PA, this is a disadvantage for them to reach their full health potential. Methods Students were selected by convenience sampling to complete a survey between October-November 2023. A validated PA questionnaire was included. PA and SB were classified into 4 levels: Active but sedentary, extremely sedentary, physically active and discreetly active. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Results Out of 32 students did not identified themselves as binary gender. In our sample, 28,1% (vs 12.9% binary students) don’t do PA. Of those doing PA, 52,2% don’t meet World Health Organization recommendations. Among those who perform PA, there no difference in the amount of minutes/week of moderate or intense physical activity performed. Regarding SB, 93,8% spend >6 hours/day in SB (vs 84.7% binary students, mean 7,82 vs 8,75, Sg. 0,032). When grouped into PA/SB categories 65,6% (vs 40,5%) were extremely sedentary in contrast to 1,4% physically active (vs 8.8%). Conclusions In Spain, 1 in 4 young people does not identify with the male/female categories. In our sample, physical inactivity and sedentarism are higher among those who do not identify as male/female. Once they commit to physical activity, there is no difference in the time spent between those who meet the WHO recommendations. More research is needed to understand the reasons for these differences and ensure barrier-free access to healthy lifestyle habits on campus. Key messages • Non-binary gender identified students are less physically active and more sedentary than their peers. • Once they commit to physical activity recommendations, there are no differences among their performance.

Factors associated with the consumption of ultra-processed among Brazilian and Portuguese pregnant

Abstract Considering the recent evidence about the negative effect of the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) on current and future generations, and pointing to the development of public food policies adapted to the needs of pregnant women, it is important to identify the factors associated with high consumption of UPF. Cross-sectional comparative study that used data from: 1) a randomized controlled clinical trial conducted with pregnant women treated at Health Units in a city in São Paulo (n = 350), Brazil; and 2) the National Dietary and Physical Activity Survey 2015-2016, Portuguese pregnant women (n = 226). Two 24-hour recall surveys were collected. The UPF were classified according to the Nova. Usual consumption was estimated using the Multiple Source Method software. The percentage of energy coming from UPF was calculated using the mean (±SD) and 95%CI. Adjusted and crude linear regression models were used. The analysis were conducted in SPSS (version 21), considering p < 0.05 as significant. The average age of the total sample was 29.4(±6.3) years and the BMI corresponded to 27.8(±3.4)kg/m². The average daily energy consumption from UPF among Brazilian pregnant women was 449.6(±207.6) kcal, representing 24.2(±8.8)% of the total energy consumed on a usual day; among Portuguese women the average corresponded to 484.2(±242.4)kcal and 22.3(9.3)%, respectively. In crude and adjusted linear regression models, the participation of UPF in total energy was higher among single Brazilian pregnant women compared to married women (3.2[0.8-5.5]p=0.009); Among Portuguese women, an inverse relationship was observed between weekly physical activity (PA) ≥150 minutes and UPF energy consumption (-3.2[-6.0 - -0.3]p= 0, 03). In the studied pregnant women, results showed that being single and practicing less than 150 minutes of PA weekly were factors associated with greater consumption of UPF, characterizing a priority group to receive nutritional interventions during prenatal care. Key messages • Public policies and strategies to reduce the consumption of ultra-processed foods during pregnancy. • Promotion of healthy lifestyle habits and impact on current and future health.

Prioritizing health, well-being, active ageing needs in Lithuania: insights from stakeholders

Abstract Background The rate of aging in Lithuania is faster than the EU average. The number of long-term health problems in older (65+yrs) people increases, posing changes in societal needs. The aim of our study was to identify the most important needs of older people in Lithuania. Methods Generic qualitative inquiry employed purposeful sampling of stakeholders in Lithuania: policymakers, administration, academia, civil society, health care, social service, public health, organizations of elderly. 43 experts, engaged in online focus groups, generated a list of needs for health, wellbeing, active ageing in elderly; they deliberated to prioritize top 5; scientific team condensed a list of 10 for voting to determine final 5 national needs. Research was done within project “Roadmap to improve the health and well-being of the ageing population in the Baltic Sea Region (AgeFLAG)”, 2020. Results Top needs identified were: shaping healthy lifestyle habits and motivation for change (72%) / age friendly environment and virtual assistive technologies (72%); person centred care (domiciliary care, residential care and nursing, social activities and etc. depending on the needs and wishes of the older person) (58%); increasing and maintaining physical capacity (56%); intersectoral collaboration and integration of social and health services (53%); establishment of positive public attitudes towards elderly people (50%). All stakeholders indicated that “Establishment of positive public attitudes towards elderly people” is the corner stone of all priorities for action to healthy ageing in Lithuania. Conclusions The main issue hindering active and healthy ageing in Lithuania - negative image of ageing in the society. Recommendations on the public health actions included promoting intergenerational conversation, reducing stigmas around ageing, strengthening social inclusion, generating age-friendly environments, and creating a safe space for self-realization and development. Key messages • The main issue hindering active and healthy ageing in Lithuania – negative image of ageing in the society. • The change in the population requires the transformation of health care and social care systems building age friendly environments in Lithuania.

Hubungan Aktivitas Fisik dan Durasi Tidur Dengan Status Gizi pada Remaja di SMA Negeri 7 Bandar Lampung Tahun 2024

According to the Indonesian Health Survey (2023), the prevalence data on nutritional status (BMI/U) in children aged 16-18 years consists of very thin 1.8%, thin 5.5%, Normal 84.5%, Overweight 6.4%, Obese 1.8% (SKI, 2023). Bandar Lampung City has a high prevalence of obesity in adolescents. Of the 10 districts in Lampung Province, 3 of them have high obesity problems with a prevalence above 10%, namely: West Lampung Regency 10.3% Bandar Lampung City 11.1% and Metro City 9.9%. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between physical activity and sleep duration with nutritional status in adolescents at State Senior High School 7 Bandar Lampung. This type of research uses the Descriptive Analytical method with a Cross-Sectional approach. The population of this study was all 90 students of class XI IPS at State Senior High School 7 Bandar Lampung. The sampling technique used the random sampling method with a total sample of 82 respondents. The results of the study showed the effect of physical activity on nutritional status with a p-value of 0.024 and no effect of sleep duration on nutritional status with a p-value of 0.908. It is hoped that students will be able to know the knowledge related to the relationship between physical activity and sleep duration on one nutrient so that it can be a positive encouragement in implementing healthy lifestyle habits.

Healthcare workers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards cardiovascular disease prevention: a multi-national cross-sectional study

Abstract Introduction Prior studies have shown that improved primordial prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD) may significantly delay its onset. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are well-placed to influence healthy lifestyle habits for CVD prevention. However, it is unclear how well HCWs fare in this role given the multiple demands on their time in clinical practice. Purpose We sought to understand the CVD prevention knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAPs) of HCWs across 25 nations. Insights gained could help inform efforts to optimise CVD prevention by HCWs. Methodology: Data was collected via an anonymous, online questionnaire which consisted of pre-validated CVD prevention and smoking cessation subscales adapted from the Preventive Medicine Attitudes and Activities Questionnaire (PMAAQ). The subscales have been previously validated in a study population of primary care residents in the US, demonstrating validity and reliability. Results 668 HCWs (60% doctors, 28% nurses, 12% medical students) from 25 nations responded to the survey. Overall, 74.86% of HCWs routinely assessed patients’ cardiovascular (CV) risk profiles in clinical practice. 65.65% of HCWs counselled patients who were asymptomatic for CVD on tangible lifestyle changes to improve their CV risk profiles, while 68.22% of HCWs did so when patients were overweight. Of note, only 51.26% of HCWs implemented comprehensive smoking cessation interventions for their patients. Practising HCWs demonstrated higher levels of CVD prevention promotion than medical students in all aspects (Fig 1b), except for self-reported importance of CVD risk factor counselling in primary prevention (Tukey HSD diff: 0.31, p-value: 0.051). Among practising HCWs, there were no significant differences in their promotion of CVD prevention across varying lengths of clinical practice. HCWs from higher income nations[1] tended to fare worse than their lower income counterparts in the promotion of CVD prevention (Fig 1a). Conclusion A large multi-national survey reveals significant gaps in the promotion of CVD prevention by HCWs, highlighting key differences in CVD prevention practices based on national income status. The results also demonstrate significant differences between medical students and practising HCWs’ CVD prevention behaviours, highlighting the role of continuing education for the promotion of long-term positive CVD prevention clinical practices amongst HCWs. Further efforts may target the medical education of early-career HCWs, especially in higher income nations. [1] National income level is defined as per the World Bank's classification, with the exception of Taiwan which is not classified as an independent nation under the World Bank. However, Taiwan is still labelled as a high income nation as her GNI (US$33,565) fits the criterion of the World Bank's definition of a high income nation (GNI per capita of >US$13,846).Table 1:Participant demographicsFigure 1a and 1b

Healthy Life Awareness, Blood Pressure Awareness and Insight Among Adult Individuals: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

To measure healthy life awareness, blood pressure awareness and insight levels, along with their predisposing factors among adult individuals. A population-based cross-sectional study. The population consisted of adult individuals in a rural district of a city in Türkiye. Voluntary individuals who visited the population screening, organized as the May Measurement Month activity, were invited to the study (n=290). The data were collected by a questionnaire, the Healthy Life Awareness Scale (HeLAS), and the Blood Pressure Awareness and Insight Scale (BASIS). Descriptive statistics, Pearson Correlation, and multiple linear regression were used to analyze the data. The mean scores of the HeLAS and the BASIS were 49.62±8.30 and 2.89±1.43, respectively. Income level, regular physical activity habits, and formerly being diagnosed with hypertension were positively associated with ahealthy life awareness level. Former diagnosis of hypertension, regular medication usage, and being unemployed were the significant predisposing factors of blood pressure awareness and insight level. Most adult individuals displayed a moderate level of healthy life awareness and a low level of blood pressure awareness and insight. Nurses could take on the leading role in developing healthy lifestyle habits among individuals, ensure medication treatment adherence, and prevent hypertension prevalence.

Formation of a healthy lifestyle of high school students using the «Fitness Mix» means

The article analyzes the importance of developing a healthy lifestyle among high school girls and the role of the "Fitness Mix" methodology in this process. The study explores the use of "Fitness Mix" as an innovative tool for enhancing physical activity levels, improving performance, and promoting overall health among adolescents. It emphasizes how combining different types of physical activities, such as aerobics, strength training, and stretching, can be integrated into physical education classes to achieve comprehensive results. In addition to physical exercises, the article highlights the importance of the theoretical component, which includes principles of healthy eating, regular sleep and rest routines, prevention of harmful habits, and maintaining mental health. Special attention is given to the analysis of scientific research and practical examples that confirm the effectiveness of using fitness technologies in schools. Alternatives to traditional modular physical education programs are discussed, broadening the opportunities for educating and developing adolescents. The study emphasizes the need to consider individual student characteristics when designing exercise programs, ensuring optimal results and maintaining motivation for regular physical activity. The article also provides recommendations for educators and trainers on implementing «Fitness Mix» into the school curriculum to promote the development of sustainable healthy lifestyle habits among youth. A range of examples is analyzed regarding the combination of different types of physical activity, specifically aerobics, strength exercises, stretching, etc., with an additional focus on important aspects such as healthy eating principles, sleep and rest routines, prevention of harmful habits, and mental health preservation. The importance of considering the individual characteristics of students when designing exercise programs is underscored.

Menumbuhkan Kesadaran Gizi Seimbang Melalui Edukasi dan Pengecekan Status Gizi pada Santriwati di Maahad Tahfiz Al-Qur’an Darul Falah, Selangor, Malaysia

Maahad Tahfiz Al-Qur’an Darul Falah, Selangor, Malaysia, is an institution focused on Qur’an memorization for female students. Due to their intense activities, including memorization requiring high concentration, balanced nutrition is essential for supporting their academic performance and health. However, their nutritional intake has not been fully optimized. Initial observations indicated that some students have limited knowledge of balanced nutrition, which may affect their health and nutritional status. This community service program aimed to raise awareness about the importance of balanced nutrition through education, nutritional status checks, and counseling. The program included three main activities: (1) Nutrition education through lectures and interactive sessions, covering basic concepts of balanced nutrition, the food pyramid, and guidelines from the Ministry of Health Malaysia; (2) Nutritional status checks through height and weight measurements to calculate Body Mass Index (BMI), identifying students' nutritional categories and related issues; and (3) Nutritional counseling, conducted after the status checks, teaching students how to achieve or maintain an ideal weight and offering advice on healthy eating and lifestyle habits. The program, which involved 40 students, found that 60% of them had a normal nutritional status, while some were underweight (12.5%), overweight (20%), and obese (7.5%). The education and counseling sessions helped improve the students' understanding of the importance of balanced nutrition and provided guidance on how to maintain or achieve a healthy weight, supporting their overall health and academic.

Adolescent Health and Parents' and Teachers' Beliefs about Smoking: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The acquisition of healthy lifestyle habits by adolescents is largely influenced by close interpersonal relationships including their parents and teachers. A cross-sectional survey regarding tobacco use was conducted among 304 parents and 41 teachers of secondary school adolescents (12-17 years of age) enrolled in the first, second, and third grades of compulsory secondary education at the largest high school in Sueca, Valencia, Spain. The prevalence of smoking was 36.2% among parents (occasional smokers 75.4%) and 19.5% among teachers (occasional smokers 62.5%). Most parents (89.8%) did not believe that their child smoked and 95.7% viewed it negatively if they did. Also, 75.2% of parents agreed that tobacco consumption encourages adolescents to use cannabis or other drugs. Friends who smoke and additives added to cigarettes were considered very influential factors for starting smoking. Most teachers (90.2%) reported having given a recommendation to their students to quit smoking. Cannabis and cigarette smoking were rated as harmful to health. Most respondents believed that cigarette smoking may favor the consumption of cannabis. The use of e-cigarettes was also considered a risk factor for starting smoking. It would be advantageous incorporating parents and teachers as role models in multidisciplinary interventions addressing smoking behavior in secondary school students.

The prevalence of oral mucositis after radiotherapy in patients with Head and Neck Cancer and its associated factors: a meta-analysis.

Although the discussion about oral mucositis in Head and Neck Cancer (HNC) patients has become a prominent issue, its incidence and influencing factors have not been thoroughly synthesized. This meta-analysis aims to integrate the prevalence and associated factors of radiation-induced oral mucositis among HNC patients. This study searched the following electronic databases: PubMed, the Cochrane Database, the Web of Science, EMBASE, CNKI, the Wanfang Database, and the VIP Database. The publication timeframe for the included studies ranged from January 2005 until January 2024. Two investigators used the NOS scale and AHRQ evaluation criteria for quality evaluation. All qualified studies and statistical analyses were conducted using RevMan 5.2 and Stata 17.0. Thirty eligible studies were included in the analysis. The results show that the prevalence of radiation-induced oral mucositis in HNC patients was 94% [95% CI (89%, 98%)]. Furthermore, the prevalence of severe radiation-induced oral mucositis in HNC patients is 37% [95%CI (29%, 45%)]. Chemotherapy, smoking history, diabetes, oral PH ≤ 7.0, and alcohol consumption are the main risk factors for radioactive oral mucositis. In addition, BMI > 24.0 kg/m2, no use of antibiotics, and no use of oral mucosal protective agents are associated with radioactive oral mucositis. This meta-analysis underscores a significantly high prevalence of radiation-induced oral mucositis in HNC patients. Establishing healthy lifestyle habits and maintaining a healthy oral environment are pivotal in preventing radiation-induced oral mucositis.

P134 CHARACTERIZATION OF RISK FACTORS IN RELATION TO THE INCREASE IN CARDIOVASCULAR RISK

Objective: Identify risk factors and their relationship with 10-year cardiovascular risk evaluated using the modified Framingham scale, in order to promote education and healthy lifestyle habits, generating an impact on the incidence of this disease. Methods: A descriptive study was carried out to characterize risk factors related to a high cardiovascular risk at 10 years, based on a cross-sectional study consisting of information collection with modified Framingham surveys, for risk assessment at 10 years. Results: A total of 3,025 people were surveyed, where the following factors were associated with a high cardiovascular risk: diabetes with 221 people and 6.7% at high risk, obesity with 242 people with 11.2% at high risk, alcohol consumption with 938 people with 15.3% high risk and smoking with 333 people with a high risk of 5.8%. Conclusions: Cardiovascular diseases are the most common non-communicable diseases with considerable morbidity and mortality worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income countries. As a fundamental part of the study, the importance of risk factors and their relationship with high cardiovascular risk in a capital city of Colombia is considered, within these diabetes, obesity, alcohol consumption and tobacco consumption, the alcohol consumption as the risk factor with the biggest impact linked to high cardiovascular risk with 15.3%. On the other hand, a negative impact is evident in the relationship between obesity associated with high cardiovascular risk with 11.2% of the total the obese population, the results of this study demonstrate the association with high cardiovascular risk, revealing alcohol consumption and obesity and how it is related to the increase in cardiovascular risk according to the Framingham scale, revealing the importance of education as a fundamental pillar for the prevention of risk and development of the disease, generating new educational campaigns and studies about the relationship of the factors and their modification with healthy lifestyle habits

The Effect Of Changes In Lifestyle Measures On Weight And Body Mass Index Among Adult Pre-Hypertensive Patients In A Tertiary Hospital In North Central Nigeria

Background: Results from several clinical trials show that comprehensive behavioral intervention programs improve lifestyle behaviors and lower weight and BMI. The study was undertaken to determine the effect of structured changes in lifestyle measures on weight and BMI among pre-hypertensive adults presenting it the GOPC of JUTH. Study Design/Setting: The study was a randomized controlled experimental study involving pre-hypertensive adults aged 18 years and above presenting in GOPC of JUTH. Methods: Participants were consecutively selected and randomized to a control and an intervention group. The intervention group was offered a structured lifestyle modification counseling while routine advice only was offered to the control group. Data was collected about patients’socio-demographic, medical and lifestyle habits that included dietary and exercise history. Physical examination was done to include height, weight and BMI. Participants were followed up monthly for twelve weeks during which physical examination was routinely carried out and changes in their lifestyle habits reported. The outcome measures were reduction in weight and BMI. The difference in the means of the outcome measures at pre- and post-intervention were determined using the independent and paired student t-tests at 95% confidence interval. Data were analyzed on an intention to treat basis. A p-value of ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant in all analyses. Results: On completing the study, independent t-test showed that the mean weight difference between the two study groups was 0.17kg (p=0.96; -5.77, 6.12, 95% CI) and the mean BMI difference was 0.32kg/m2 (p=0.79; - 2.07, 2.71, 95% CI). These were not statistically significant. However, significant improvement in healthy lifestyle habits were notably more in the intervention group. Desirable changes in the mean weight and BMI were more evident among participants of the intervention group after the 12 weeks study, although there were no statistically significant differences in the two groups. Conclusion: Findings from the study showed that although individuals with pre-hypertension can make and sustain, during a period of 12 weeks, multiple lifestyle modifications which can significantly control or reduce weight and BMI, structured changes on lifestyle measures may not be better than routine verbal advice only among pre-hypertensives in the study setting. There is a need for improved lifestyle intervention programs, including those appropriate for delivery in the clinical setting, that enable individuals at risk for hypertension to adopt long-term healthier lifestyles

A multicomponent smoking cessation program for adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DiMe-SALUD2 project): A study protocol of a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundTobacco use represents a significant public health burden, being especially harmful for smokers with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Effective smoking cessation interventions are required for this vulnerable population. The goal is to describe a study protocol of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed at analyzing the effectiveness and efficiency of a multicomponent smoking cessation intervention for T2DM smokers, including a training protocol on healthy lifestyle habits and self-management of T2DM (DiMe-SALUD2 project). MethodsThis RCT will assign participants to: (1) Control Group (n = 30), including a brief psychoeducation advice about smoking cessation; (2) Cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) for smoking cessation (n = 30), based on a multicomponent program implemented in group-based sessions over an eight-week period; and (3) CBT plus DiMeSALUD2 protocol (n = 30), which will develop an additional psychoeducational protocol specifically designed to improve healthy lifestyle habits. Participants will be assessed at baseline, post-treatment and several follow-ups (1-, 6- and 12-months). Primary outcomes will include smoking abstinence (24-h point prevalence abstinence at post-treatment and 7-day point prevalence at follow-ups) and smoking continuous abstinence. Secondary outcomes will include treatment retention, changes in smoking patterns and nicotine dependence, as well as the impact on T2DM clinical variables, mental health, and quality of life. DiscussionThe DiMeSALUD2 program could assist T2DM smokers in quitting tobacco use and improving their overall quality of life. This project will help incorporating improvements in routine clinical practice with T2DM patients, offering a smoking cessation program adapted to their specific needs. Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov. Identifier: NCT05885659. Date of registration: June 2nd, 2023.

Effectiveness of a Social-Media-Based Diet and Physical Activity Programme for Fathers in Japan: A Randomised Controlled Trial.

Provision of healthy lifestyle support for fathers can improve the lifestyles and health awareness of not only fathers but also their children and families. Few studies have examined the effectiveness of education targeting healthy fathers provided via social media. Hence, we aimed to clarify the effects of providing fathers with information on healthy lifestyle habits via social media on their awareness and behaviours regarding diet, physical activity, and healthcare, in addition to such a programme's indirect effects on their children. This randomised controlled trial included 73 fathers of primary school children in Japan. The intervention group received information on 'healthy lifestyle', 'lifestyle-related diseases', 'healthy diet', and 'healthy physical activity' via social media six times every 2 weeks. Data were collected before, 3 months after, and 4 months after the intervention. The intervention was effective in improving some awareness regarding diet, physical activity, and healthcare. In addition, the fathers in the intervention group demonstrated significantly improved interest in their child's diet and exercise habits. Social-media-based diet and physical activity programmes for fathers improved their awareness and behaviour. Therefore, social-media-based health education programmes can be an important tool for increasing fathers' interest in their own health and in their children's lifestyles.

The correlation between healthy lifestyle habits and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in Guangxi

BackgroundAdherence to healthy lifestyle habits has become a mainstream approach for lessening the burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) during initial prevention efforts. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of four healthy lifestyle habits, the associated factors, and their impact on all-cause and cardiovascular mortality among residents of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.MethodsFrom 2015 to 2019, individuals between the ages of 35 and 75 from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region were recruited through the ChinaHeart Million Person Project. Our study examined four healthy lifestyle habits: not smoking, no or moderate amounts of alcohol, sufficient leisure time physical activity (LTPA) and a balanced diet.ResultsOut of the 19,969 individuals involved, the majority, 77.3% did not smoke, while 96.7% had limited alcohol intake, 24.5% engaged in sufficient LTPA, 5.5% followed a balanced diet, and merely 1.7% adhered to all four healthy lifestyle habits. Participants who were women, older, nonfarmers, living in cities, with a high income or level of education, or had hypertension or diabetes were more likely to follow all four healthy lifestyle habits (p < 0.001). People who followed the three healthy lifestyle habits had reduced chances of death from all cause (HR 0.34[95% CI:0.15,0.76]) and cardiovascular-related death (HR 0.23 [95% CI: 0.07, 0.68]) (p < 0.01) over a median period of 3.5 years.ConclusionsIn Guangxi Province, the level of adherence to healthy lifestyle habits is very minimal. Therefore, population-specific health promotion strategies are urgently needed.

An update on tinea capitis in children.

Tinea capitis presents a significant public health care challenge due to its contagious nature, and potential long-term consequences if unrecognized and untreated. This review explores the prevalence, risk factors, diagnostic methods, prevention strategies, impact on quality of life, and treatment options for pediatric tinea capitis. Epidemiological analysis spanning from 1990 to 1993 and 2020 to 2023 reveals prevalence patterns of pediatric tinea capitis influenced by geographic, demographic, and environmental factors. Notably, Trichophyton species is most prevalent in North America; however, Microsporum species remain the primary causative agent globally, with regional variations. Risk factors include close contact and environmental conditions, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures. Accurate diagnosis relies on clinical evaluation, microscopic examination, and fungal culture. Various treatment modalities including systemic antifungals show efficacy, with terbinafine demonstrating superior mycological cure rates particularly for Trichophyton species. Recurrent infections and the potential development of resistance can pose challenges. Therefore, confirming the diagnosis, appropriately educating the patient/caregiver, accurate drug and dose utilization, and compliance are important components of clinical cure. Untreated or poorly treated tinea capitis can lead to chronic infection, social stigma, and psychological distress in affected children. Prevention strategies focus on early detection and healthy lifestyle habits. Collaborative efforts between healthcare providers and public health agencies are important in treating pediatric tinea capitis and improving patient outcomes. Education and awareness initiatives play a vital role in prevention and community-level intervention to minimize spread of infection. Future research should explore diagnostic advances, novel treatments, and resistance mechanisms in order to mitigate the disease burden effectively.