Influence Of Sociodemographic Factors Research Articles

Neurodevelopmental follow-up of children born to mothers with Graves' disease and neonatal hyperthyroidism.

Neonatal hyperthyroidism, often caused by maternal Graves' disease (GD), carries potential neurodevelopmental risks for children. Excessive thyroid hormones during fetal development are linked to neurological issues like ADHD and epilepsy. However, the impact of transient neonatal hyperthyroidism is not well understood. In a retrospective study at the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne, 21 neonates with hyperthyroidism from mothers with GD were examined. Of these, the parents of 10 children consented to participate; thus, questionnaires assessing executive functions, behavior, and social communication were completed. The outcomes were compared to those of control subjects recruited from the community using standardized tools (BRIEF, SDQ, SCQ). The results were analyzed against socio-demographic factors, maternal, and neonatal health. No significant demographic or clinical differences were found between study participants (n=10) and non-participants (n=11). Participants, compared to controls, showed similar family demographics but a higher proportion of control parents had university-level education (p=0.003). Patients displayed more social (SCQ scores: 12.1±2.5 vs. 6±1.07, p=0.008) and behavioral difficulties (SDQ scores: 10.2±2.17 vs. 6.14±1.03, p=0.03), with increased executive function challenges (BRIEF scores indicating problem-solving and self-regulation difficulties). Significant effects of family living situation and partner education level on neurodevelopmental measures were noted, underscoring the influence of socio-demographic factors. These findings suggest neonatal hyperthyroidism might lead to subtle neurodevelopmental variations, with socio-economic elements and family dynamics possibly intensifying these effects. While most children didn't show severe impairments, early detection and intervention are recommended. The research emphasizes the necessity for inclusive care approaches that consider socio-economic factors for children affected by neonatal hyperthyroidism.

Resilience, Migratory Grief, and the Influence of Sociodemographic Factors on Venezuelan Immigrants, Case of Peru

The current study aimed to determine the relationship between resilience and migratory grief among Venezuelan immigrants in Peru. This was a basic, quantitative, correlational, cross-sectional study. The sample consisted of 267 Venezuelan immigrants aged between 18 and 50 years from the human mobility and human trafficking board of a diocese in Peru. To measure the variables, the RS-14 Resilience Scale by Wagnild and Young and the Migratory Grief Questionnaire created by De la Revilla et al. were used. For the data analysis, SPSS v25 software was used, and Spearman's correlation coefficient was calculated to determine the relationship between resilience and migratory grief. Additionally, to understand the influence of sociodemographic factors, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Scheffé post hoc test were utilized. The results showed that there was a statistically significant relationship between the level of resilience and migratory grief. Similarly, employment status is an influential factor for both resilience and migratory grief. Received: 6 March 2024 / Accepted: 16 April 2024 / Published: 5 May 2024

The influence of sociodemographic factors on parental health-seeking behavior for illnesses among the pediatric age group in Karachi: A cross-sectional study.

Health-seeking behavior (HSB) is an individual's reaction to sickness, for which they seek medical attention, regardless of the form such care may take. Poor HSB is frequently associated with lower health outcomes and greater mortality and disease rates in a nation. Sociodemographic factors, including age, gender, family structure, occupation, ethnicity, and rates of literacy and poverty, can influence a person's HSB. This study would benefit Pakistani parents of the paediatric population to make more informed health choices for their children. This study aims to determine the influence of sociodemographic factors on parental HSB for illnesses among the pediatric age group in Karachi. A cross-sectional study was conducted in which 214 parents were interviewed about their choices for health-seeking healthcare for their pediatric children of the pediatric age group (birth-18 years), who were attending the pediatric OPD and wards at Dr. Ruth Pfau Civil Hospital, Karachi in May 2023. Only parents or guardians with sick children were included. Their sociodemographic characteristics and health-seeking choices were asked. Informed consent was obtained, and all data were recorded. SPSS version 25 was used for analysis. For the first choice, the majority of parents (82.7%) preferred to seek healthcare for their children from medical doctors, followed by spiritual healers (10.7%), traditional healers (5.6%), and homoeopathic doctors (0.9%). For the second choice, the highest percentage was for a doctor (76.2%), followed by a spiritual healer (18.7%), a homoeopathic doctor (3.3%), and a traditional healer (1.9%). A significant correlation was found between the first visit and the decision makers (p = 0.019), the father's education level of the father (p = 0.001), the mother's occupation of the mother (p = 0.019), and the mother's education level of the mother (p = 0.001). Sociodemographic characteristics greatly influence parents' HSBs of parents for their children. Despite having low-paying jobs and being uneducated, most people choose to refer to a doctor for their child due to awareness.

The Correlates of Collective and Individual Trauma on Mental Health Outcomes Among Afghan Refugees: A Study of Sociodemographic Differences.

Following the U.S. military's departure from Afghanistan, a significant number of Afghan refugees have resettled in the United States, presenting complex mental health challenges exacerbated by extensive traumatic exposure. This demographic is particularly affected by collective trauma due to war, genocide, and the loss of homeland. However, detailed investigations into the correlations between collective trauma and mental health outcomes among Afghan refugees are limited. This study sought to explore the relationship between collective trauma and mental health outcomes within the Afghan refugee population in the United States, paying particular attention to the influence of sociodemographic factors. Identifying subgroups at greater risk allows for the development of more targeted mental health interventions. The study surveyed 173 Afghan refugees employing snowball sampling, utilizing a cross-sectional design. Data collection was facilitated through online and in-person surveys in English, Dari, and Pashto. Key measures included the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire for individual trauma experiences, the Historical Loss Scale for collective trauma, the Historical Loss Associated Symptoms Scale for collective trauma symptoms, the Afghan Symptom Checklist-22 for mental health symptoms, and the Post-Migration Living Difficulties Scale for post-migration stressors. Statistical analyses involved Pearson's correlation for variable associations, with nonparametric Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests conducted to assess sociodemographic impacts due to data's non-normal distribution. The analysis revealed significant variations in collective trauma and mental health outcomes across subgroups. Afghan women, minoritized ethnic groups, those who experienced extended displacement, and refugees with uncertain visa statuses reported higher collective trauma levels and worse mental health outcomes. Statistical significance was noted in the correlations between collective trauma and mental health symptoms (r = .53, p < .01) and between post-migration difficulties and mental health (r = .33, p < .01). The disparities in mental health outcomes based on sociodemographic characteristics were significant, with nonparametric tests showing clear distinctions across different groups (Kruskal-Wallis H = 14.76, p < .05 for trauma experience by visa status). This study emphasizes the critical need for mental health interventions that account for the complex experiences of collective trauma among Afghan refugees, especially among identified subgroups. Tailoring mental health services to address the specific needs highlighted through disaggregated data can enhance support for Afghan refugees in the United States. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the relationship between collective trauma and refugee mental health, advocating for nuanced care strategies in resettlement environments.

Epidemiological profile of elderly diabetic patients admitted to a University Hospital in western Paraná

Introduction: Diabetes is a metabolic condition characterized by hyperglycemia due to issues in insulin secretion or action. Objectives: To identify the prevalence of diabetes in the elderly population, characterizing the patterns of disease occurrence and investigating possible gender and age disparities as well as the influence of sociodemographic factors and comorbidities. Methodology: A retrospective longitudinal observational study in which data from patients with diabetes mellitus hospitalized at a University Hospital in Western Paraná from 2015 to 2022 were analyzed. Results: The results revealed a significant prevalence of diabetes, with the majority of patients being male and presenting a sociodemographic profile characterized by married individuals, of white ethnicity, and Catholic religion. The main causes of hospitalizations were urinary tract sepsis, urinary tract infection, and pulmonary sepsis, while arterial hypertension was the most prevalent comorbidity. Hospital evolution showed that most patients were discharged, with a significant proportion of deaths. Conclusion: The importance of a multidisciplinary and individualized approach in managing diabetes in the elderly is emphasized, along with the need to consider contextual and population factors in interpreting epidemiological data.

Distribution of urinary trace element exposure and dietary sources in women over 50 in an agricultural region- A community-based KoGES cohort study

BackgroundThere is a noticeable lack of information on the levels of both non-essential and essential trace elements in women aged over 50. The main objective of this study is to investigate trace element concentrations and explore the influence of sociodemographic factors and dietary sources of exposure in this demographic. MethodsWe analyzed 19 trace elements, including manganese, cobalt, copper, zinc, molybdenum, chromium, nickel, arsenic, strontium, cadmium, tin, antimony, cesium, barium, tungsten, mercury, thallium, lead, and uranium, using ICP-MS and mercury analyzer. Urine samples were obtained from a cohort of 851 women aged over 50 who participated in the 8th KoGES-Ansung study (2017–2018). Multiple linear models were employed to explore associations between urinary trace element concentrations and sociodemographic factors and dietary sources of exposure. We used K-means clustering to discern patterns of exposure to trace elements and identify contributing factors and sources. ResultsOur findings indicate higher concentrations of molybdenum (Mo), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) in our study population compared to women in previous studies. The study population were clustered into two distinct groups, characterized by lower or higher urinary concentrations. Significant correlations between age and urinary concentrations were observed in Ni. Smoking exhibited positive associations with urinary Cd and As. Associations with dietary sources of trace elements were more distinct in women in the high-exposure group. Urinary antimony (Sb) was positively linked to mushroom and egg intake, As to mushroom and fish, and Hg to egg, dairy products, fish, seaweed, and shellfish. ConclusionsOur study underscores the significant gap in understanding urinary concentrations of trace elements in women aged over 50. With higher concentrations of certain elements compared to previous studies and significant correlations between age, smoking, and specific food sources, it is imperative to address this gap through targeted dietary source-specific risk management.

Cognitive Function in Urban and Rural Postmenopausal Women.

Menopause is a well-known risk factor for decreasing cognitive function in women. Postmenopausal women are increasing in number but relevant studies are very scarce. This study compared the cognitive function between urban and rural postmenopausal women and assessed the influence of socio-demographic factors on cognitive function. The aim of the study was to assess the association between the cognitive function of urban and rural postmenopausal women. This comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 87 urban and 87 rural postmenopausal women who were selected by purposive sampling method from the Nakhalpara and Dhamrai area of Dhaka district during the period from January to December 2020. Data were collected with a semi-structured questionnaire based on the Bengali version of the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scale through face-to-face interviews and record reviewing with a checklist. Statistical analyses of the results were obtained using Microsoft Excel (Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, WA) and SPSS version 24 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). The mean age of postmenopausal women was 58.09 ± 8.163years in urban areas and 60.00 ± 7.562years in rural areas. The majority (31, 35.6%) of urban women were primary school pass whereas 58 (66.7%) rural women were illiterate. The mean family income of the women was 43022.99 ± 10992.57 Bangladeshi taka (BDT) in the urban group and 14022.99 ± 5023.14 BDTin the rural group. The study revealed that 31 (35.6%) women in the urban group and 53 (60.9%) women in the rural group had abnormal cognitive function. The percentage of abnormal cognitive function was higher in rural postmenopausal women. Cognitive function has an association with monthly family income, housing condition, family type, age at the time of marriage, lifestyle, and co-morbidities. Policymakers can take the findings as a guide to formulate policies and programs for the improvement of cognitive function of postmenopausal women.

The influence of sociodemographic factors on the control of blood glucose levels among diabetic outpatients visiting various community pharmacies in Lahore

The influence of sociodemographic factors on the control of blood glucose levels among diabetic outpatients visiting various community pharmacies in Lahore

Factors Influencing Forest Dependency on the Gola Rainforest Reserve in Sierra Leone

Purpose: Forests are under intense human pressure due to a high level of dependency. Understanding socioeconomic and demographic incentives surrounding forest dependence is critical to mitigating the adverse impacts of forest degradation in Africa. Therefore, this study examines the factors promoting household forest dependence in Sierra Leone's Gola Rainforest Reserve through four research questions: (1) What is the contribution of forest income relative to total household income? (2) What are the key sources of relative forest income? (3) How do gender, age, and education influence forest dependency? (4) What factors drive dependence on forest resources?&#x0D; Methodology: The study's target population was rural households living near the Gola Rainforest Reserve in Gaura and Tunkia Chiefdoms in the Kenema district. The study used convenience sampling. A questionnaire and an interview guide were used for data collection. It drew from 101 survey responses analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, binary logistic regression on S.P.S.S., and then —seven expert interviews and three focus group discussions explored with thematic analysis on Google Docs. The study used tables and figures for data presentation.&#x0D; Findings: The study's results showed four key findings. First, forest income accounts for 46% of monthly household income in the sampled community. Second, the top five sources of forest income are cocoa (74%), moringa tea (9%), timber wood (4%), forest spices (4%), and forest fruit and vegetables (3%). Third, age, education, and gender influence forest dependence. Fourth, livelihood and direct consumption are the key factors driving dependence on forest resources. Therefore, the study recommended that decision-makers and conservationists consider socioeconomic factors like gender, age, education, and livelihood when designing forest management projects, strategies, or policies. &#x0D; Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice, and Policy: The study’s outcome contributes to the growing literature on forest dependency. It provides key insights into the significant contribution of forest resources to household income. Analyzing the influence of socio-demographic factors, like gender, age, and education, on forest resources enhances the understanding of resource-use patterns. This study allows forest conservationists, government decision-makers, and academics to develop projects, policies, and strategies from an informed perspective, considering socio-economic realities, to promote sustainable forest management practices in Sierra Leone and other developing countries to mitigate deforestation.

Exploring tea and herbal infusions consumption patterns and behaviours: The case of Portuguese consumers

Consumption of tea and herbal infusions (THIs) have a long history in traditional medicine and cultural practices. The health-promoting benefits attributed to THIs are considered influential factors in consumer choices. However, there is limited data on consumer choices and attitudes that might interfere with the positive effects associated with THIs consumption.The aim of this study was to investigate the consumption pattern and behavior of THIs consumers in Portugal, assessing the influence of socio-demographic factors on the selection of THIs products and consumer practices related to these beverages.An online survey was conducted, and from the collected data, 720 responses met the aim of the study and were further analyzed. Most of the respondents were female, 74.4%, belonging to the 40–60 age group (40.6%) and were medium consumers of THIs (47.2%). Green tea was the most consumed type among participants, and its consumption was associated not only with age but also with the pattern of THIs consumption. Despite that, participants preferred herbal infusions, with citronella, chamomile, and lemon verbena being the most consumed types. For certain types of herbal infusions, consumption was associated with age, while other types were preferred by moderate or heavy consumers. Most participants purchased THIs in supermarkets, registered trademark and brand stores, in the form of THIs bag. Light consumers use only bag, while medium/heavy consumers indicated the use of other forms. Almost half of the respondents admitted to not reading the information on product labels before consumption and using THIs after the expiry date, while only one-third of them declared paying attention to the label instructions.This study revealed the impact of socio-demographic factors as age on the consumption patterns and preferences of THIs of consumers. Of concern is the neglect of label usage among Portuguese consumers. This emphasizes the urgency of implementing interventions to guide proper label use and promote good consumption practices to ensure the quality of THIs products.

Demographic Profile, Respiratory Presentation and Outcome Analysis of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome in a Tertiary Hospital in Bangladesh

Acute encephalitis syndrome has been a major health problem worldwide due to its high morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to find out the demographic profile of acute encephalitis syndrome and to determine the association of the outcome of the disease with the demographic factors and respiratory symptoms at presentation. This observational analytic cross-sectional study was conducted in the departments of Medicine, Paediatrics, and Neurology in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical College Hospital in Bangladesh from September 2013 to August 2014. People of all ages who fulfilled the inclusion criteria of acute encephalitis syndrome were included in the study. In this study, 270 cases were diagnosed with acute encephalitis syndrome. Most cases were clustered around the age groups of 0-5 year (24.1%), 6-17 year (24.8%), and 18 -45 year (28.5%). Death was higher among the 18-45 age groups (33.3%) as well as in males (59.3%). Apart from neurological symptoms, respiratory symptoms on presentation were present in 66.9% cases with 89.6% death and this association was found statistically significant (p value &lt; 0.001, AOR 6.96, COR 5.3 with 95% CI). Influence of socio-demographic factors and delay in seeking hospital admission on adverse outcome was not statistically significant. Most cases occurred in January-February (12.6% and 11.1%) and in July (14.4%). Overall mortality was 17.8%. Encephalitis presenting with respiratory symptoms in association carries higher mortality. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Med. Coll. J. 2024;3(1):22-26

Influence of Sociodemographic Factors on Stunting, Wasting, and Underweight Among Children Under Two Years of Age Born During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Central India: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Introduction The adverse effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on maternal and reproductive health extend beyond the immediate morbidity and mortality attributed directly to the disease. Pandemic-induced disruptions in the healthcare, social and economic infrastructures can exacerbate the already high burden of childhood undernutrition in India. Method A cross-sectional study was conducted in a selected district of the central Indian province of Madhya Pradesh. Data was collected from eligible children born during the COVID-19 pandemic (February 2020 to December 2021) who visited a selected tertiary care hospital for routine immunization during the study period. Weight-for-length, weight-for-age, and length-for-agewere compared with reference values to obtain corresponding z-scores. Children with z-scores two standard deviations below the reference values were considered wasting, underweight and stunting, respectively. Descriptive statistics were employed to summarise the sociodemographic characteristics of participants. The association of sociodemographic, nutritional, and pregnancy-related factors with the z-scores were assessed via unpaired t-test and ANOVA. Result The studied 147 children were in the age group of nine to 29 months, of which 61 (58.1%) were males. Forty-two (28.6%) were found to be underweight, 22 (14.9%) had wasting and 51 (34.7%) were stunted. These prevalences were comparable to the estimates of the National Family Health Survey 2019-2021 (NFHS-5) for Madhya Pradesh and lower than the NFHS-4 (2015-2016), showing no discernible effect of being born during the pandemic on growth indicators. However, mothers' employment and family income were independent predictors of stunting whereas gestational age at birth, maternal education, and prolonged breastfeeding were all substantially linked with wasting in this study. Conclusion This study adds to the evidence base by reporting the prevalence of stunting, wasting and underweight along with their determinants in central India among children born during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our data did not reflect the expected increase in child malnutrition due to the COVID-19 pandemic-related disruptions in healthcare, social and economic infrastructure. Future research should incorporate the lessons learnt from our study to design a population-based study of under-five children and compare the prevalence of undernutrition in pandemic-born versus non-pandemic-born children.

Support for sustainable finance and investment in Europe

Sustainable finance and investment has become an important factor in achieving environmental sustainability. Evidence also suggests it has become more prominent in the global financial system. Although academic interest has increased in recent years, most prior studies have investigated support for sustainable finance within corporate environments. Studies examining the support of individuals, or the wider public, are scarce. Consequently, using a Eurobarometer survey of 27,862 Europeans across all 27 EU countries, this study explores support for sustainable finance among people in Europe. We used a nested fixed effects model – with two levels – to examine the influence of sociodemographic factors, knowledge of sustainable finance, and a country's progress towards attaining the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our results show that sociodemographic factors are the most influential predictors of support for sustainable finance. We found that age, gender and living in rural/urban areas all influenced people's support for sustainable finance. Meanwhile, the influence of sustainable finance knowledge and SDG progress were either negligible or negative.

Do Patterns of Adolescent Participation in Arts, Culture and Entertainment Activities Predict Later Wellbeing? A Latent Class Analysis

Participation in arts, culture, and entertainment (PACE) activities may promote adolescent wellbeing. However, little is known about how such activities cluster together, and previous research has used small samples, cross-sectional designs, focused on single activities, and/or has not considered the influence of socio-demographic factors on participation. Using latent class analysis, the aims of this study were to establish: (i) classes of adolescent PACE activities; (ii) associations between socio-demographic characteristics and PACE classification; and, (iii) whether PACE classification predicts later wellbeing. Longitudinal data from the #BeeWell study (N = 18,224 adolescents; mean age at T1 = 12 years 7 months (±3.56 months); 50.54% female) were analyzed. Four latent classes were established: the ‘Dynamic Doers’ (high, wide-ranging participation; 11.87%); the ’Mind and Body Crew’ (reading, arts, videogames, sports/exercise; 39.81%); the ‘Game and Gain Squad’ (videogames and sports/exercise; 29.05%); and the ‘Activity Free Adolescents’ (uniformly low participation; 19.27%). Associations between socio-demographic characteristics and PACE classification were observed (e.g., socio-economic disadvantage increased the likelihood of Activity Free Adolescents classification, compared to Game and Gain Squad classification). Finally, PACE classification predicted later wellbeing (e.g., Dynamic Doers reported significantly higher wellbeing than Activity Free Adolescents). These findings are discussed in relation to the need to improve accessibility and appeal of arts, culture, and entertainment provision for adolescents as a means to optimize their wellbeing.Pre-registrationThe analysis plan for this study was pre-registered on the Open Science Framework and can be found here: https://osf.io/2jtpd

Association of sociodemographic and clinical factors with the quality of life of Brazilian individuals with Neurofibromatosis type 1: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundNeurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a rare genetic disorder with a wide range of clinical manifestations, notably neurocutaneous features, that can lead to emotional and physical consequences. ObjectivesThis study assessed the influence of sociodemographic factors and clinical features of the disease on the quality of life of Brazilian individuals with NF1. MethodsThis is a descriptive cross-sectional study. Data were collected from 101 individuals with NF1 using the Brazilian version of the Impact of NF1 on Quality of Life Questionnaire (INF1-QoL), a form with information on sociodemographic characteristics, and an NF1 visibility self-evaluation scale. The relationship between variables was evaluated through statistical testing, and the significance level was defined as 0.05. ResultsThe study included 101 adults with NF1 aged 18 to 59 years, with a mean age of 35.54 years (±9.63) and a female predominance (n = 84, 83.17%). The mean total INF1-QoL score was 10.62 (±5.63), with a median of 10, minimum value of 0, and maximum of 31 points. Two characteristics of the participants were significantly associated with the quality of life: educational level (p = 0.003) and familial history of NF1 (p = 0.019). There was a statistically significant correlation between the INF1-QoL score and the degree of disease visibility (rho = 0.218; p = 0.028). Study limitationsCross-sectional study, conducted with a convenience sample and using self-reported measures. ConclusionsThe findings support the significant impact of NF1 on quality of life. The authors recommend multidisciplinary follow-up for patients, with adherence to anticipatory clinical care measures, adequate pain control, psychological assistance, and genetic counseling.

Influence of socio-demographic factors on medicinal plant knowledge among three selected ethnic groups in south-central Ethiopia

BackgroundThe influence of socio-demographic variables was widely explored to evaluate their impact on indigenous and local ethnobotanical knowledge. However, the studies conducted in Ethiopia mainly focused on rural areas. They were limited to exploring and documenting ethnobotanical knowledge and the associated impacts of socio-demographic variables in rural–urban interface areas among ethnic groups. Hence, this study aimed to document plant-based indigenous and local ethnomedicinal knowledge and the associated impacts of socio-demographic variables among selected three ethnic groups in south-central Ethiopia.MethodsEthnobotanical data were collected using semi-structured interviews with 189 key informants, floristic species inventories, and field observations. Quantitative approaches were used to evaluate the use values (UV) of the most important medicinal plants, the informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity level (FL), relative popularity level (RPL), and rank-order priority (ROP). Statistical tests were applied to evaluate the influences of socio-demographic factors and associations between variables on local ethnobotanical knowledge across ethnic groups in different informant categories.ResultsStatistical analysis revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) in the mean number of medicinal plants reported among age categories. There was also a positive association between the respondent's age and plant knowledge acquisition. Croton macrostachyus Hochst. ex Delile, Albizia gummifera C.A.Sm., Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Aloe macrocarpa Tod., Gymnanthemum amygdalinum (Delile) Sch.Bip., Calpurnia aurea (Aiton) Benth, and Allium sativum L. had the highest use values among ethnic groups. The highest informant consensus factor values were recorded for circulatory system disorders (0.68) followed by febrile illness and reproductive organ complications (0.66 each) across the three studied ethnic groups. The highest FL, RPL, and ROP values were noted for Lactuca inermis Forssk., Moringa stenopetala (Baker f.) Cufod., Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, Allium sativum L., Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck, Ricinus communis L., Schinus molle L., Antiaris toxicaria (J.F.Gmel.) Lesch., Brucea antidysenterica J.F.Mill., Echinops kebericho Mesfin, Ocimum jamesii Sebald, Afrocarpus falcatus (Thunb.) C.N.Page, Searsia natalensis (Bernh. ex Krauss) F.A.Barkley, and Ricinus communis L. across ethnic groups in the study areas, which showed the conformity of knowledge on species curing potential and their prevalent uses.ConclusionThe study revealed that the ethnic groups of Gedeo, Oromo, and Sidama have considerable indigenous and local ethnobotanical knowledge practices. Statistical analysis shown high variation in the acquisition of local ethnobotanical knowledge among age groups, which boosted our understanding of the effects of socio-demographic factors on the local ethnobotanical knowledge dynamics. Thus, this finding advocates for efforts to repair the observed generation gap via continued professional support and educating local communities to preserve traditional knowledge and practices through systematic documentation.

Exploring the Potential Link between PFAS Exposure and Endometrial Cancer: A Review of Environmental and Sociodemographic Factors.

This exploratory narrative review paper delves into the intricate interplay between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure, sociodemographic factors, and the influence of stressors in the context of endometrial cancer. PFAS, ubiquitous environmental contaminants notorious for their persistence in the ecosystem, have garnered attention for their potential to disrupt endocrine systems and provoke immune responses. We comprehensively examine the various sources of PFAS exposure, encompassing household items, water, air, and soil, thus shedding light on the multifaceted routes through which individuals encounter these compounds. Furthermore, we explore the influence of sociodemographic factors, such as income, education, occupation, ethnicity/race, and geographical location and their relationship to endometrial cancer risk. We also investigated the role of stress on PFAS exposure and endometrial cancer risk. The results revealed a significant impact of sociodemographic factors on both PFAS levels and endometrial cancer risk. Stress emerged as a notable contributing factor influencing PFAS exposure and the development of endometrial cancer, further emphasizing the importance of stress management practices for overall well-being. By synthesizing evidence from diverse fields, this review underscores the need for interdisciplinary research and targeted interventions to comprehensively address the complex relationship between PFAS, sociodemographic factors, stressors, and endometrial cancer.

Influence of sociodemographic and obstetric factors on maternal mortality in Brazil from 2011 to 2021

BackgroundObstetric causes are classified as direct (complications of pregnancy, childbirth or the puerperium) or indirect (caused by pregnancy but not directly caused by it). This study aimed to analyze maternal mortality from obstetric causes in Brazil from 2011 to 2021.MethodsThis was an ecological study on mortality and live births. The outcomes were the specific risk of mortality from direct and indirect cause adjustment and death during pregnancy and the puerperium. Binary and multiple linear logistic regressions were used to assess the influence of sociodemographic factors and maternal and child health indicators on maternal mortality and time of death (pregnancy and puerperium). ResultsRegarding mortality during pregnancy and during the puerperium, increased (p = 0.003) and decreased (p = 0.004) mortality over the years, respectively; residing in the northern region was associated with lower (p < 0.05) and greater (p = 0.035) odds; and the Maternal Mortality Committee was the primary and least active source of investigation, respectively (p < 0.0001). The number of deaths from indirect causes increased with age (p < 0.001) and in the northern region (p = 0.011) and decreased in the white (< 0.05) and stable union (0.002) regions. Specifically, for mortality risk, the age group [women aged 15–19 years presented an increase in cesarean section (p < 0.001) was greater than that of women who had < 4 antenatal visits (p < 0.001)], education [women who completed high school (8 to 11 years) was greater when they had < 4 prenatal visits (p = 0.018)], and marital status [unmarried women had more than 4 antenatal visits (p < 0.001); cesarean birth (p = 0.010) and < 4 antenatal visits (p = 0.009) were predictors of marriage; and women in a stable union who had < 4 prenatal visits and live births to teenage mothers (p < 0.001) were predictors]. Women who had no education (p = 0.003), were divorced (p = 0.036), had cesarean deliveries (p < 0.012), or lived in the north or northeast (p < 0.008) had higher indirect specific mortality risk. ConclusionsSociodemographic factors and maternal and child health indicators were related to different patterns of obstetric mortality. Obstetric mortality varied by region, marital status, race, delivery, prenatal care, and cause of death.

A Retrospective Analysis of Early 20th Century Asylum Records of Patients with Dementia Praecox

Mental illness definitions and classifications are to a certain extent intrinsically tied to social factors. To empirically examine the impact of sociodemographic factors on patients institutionalized with dementia praecox in the early 20th century, we examined records from Dorothea Dix Hospital (DDH), an asylum in Southeastern United States. Data was extracted from digitally archived handwritten admission ledgers and general casebooks. Of those institutionalized at DDH between 1896-1917, 190 patients were diagnosed with dementia praecox. Clinical characteristics of patients are described using descriptive text analysis. We used regression models to examine the influence of sociodemographic factors on length of stay and release condition from the asylum. Race was not recorded for any patient and presumed White since DDH was not racially integrated until 1960s. Women had a significantly increased odds (OR = 3.8, p = 0.016) of dying in the facility than getting discharged; being single significantly increased the odds of dying in the facility (OR = 6.8, p = 0.002). Marital status predicted length of stay—being single increased the length of stay (b = 5.97, t (159) = 2.43, p = 0.016) adjusting for the effects of gender, age, and education. We report the impact of gender and marital status on patient release condition and length of stay in an asylum in the early 20th century. Results from the historical data we empirically examined are relevant today as women continue to experience disparities in mental health care. Family support was crucial to better outcomes then, as it is today.

Influence of socio-demographic factors on the use of maternal health care among Muslim women in urban slums of Mumbai, India

Background: Low and middle-income countries such as India face significant challenges in improving maternal health and reducing maternal mortality rate. To combat this problem, it is essential to utilize maternal health-care services. Objective: This study aims to assess the utilization of maternal health-care services (Antenatal care [ANC] and skilled attendance at birth) and the determining factors of maternal health-care utilization. Materials and Methods: This study is cross-sectional. The study is carried out in an urban slum in Mumbai, India. The respondents were selected using a multistage sampling procedure, and 300 Muslim women who delivered in the past 2 years in the reproductive age group (15–49 years) were selected. The data were collected using a structured interview schedule. Data were analyzed using logistic regression analysis. Results: The study shows that maternal health-care utilization among respondents was unsatisfactory. Only 43.8% of the respondents utilized full ANC service and 27.3% still delivered at home with unskilled birth attendance (traditional Dai). A medical emergency, high cost, and lack of quality of services were the most common reasons to deliver at home. Respondents’ age at marriage, education (respondents and partners), monthly income, number of children, and type of family are the most important determining factors for the utilization of maternal health-care services. Conclusion: Better utilization of maternal health-care services can be achieved by improving the overall socioeconomic status of Muslim women. To improve maternal healthcare, special attention is required to be paid to the education of women and spouses. Furthermore, policies may address the women’s subordinate position in socioeconomic parameters. Similarly, close monitoring is required by the government through different agencies on the utilization of maternal health-care services.