Lifestyle Factors Research Articles

All-cause, cancer and cardiovascular mortality among South Asians living in the UK: Follow-up of the London Life Sciences Population (LOLIPOP) cohort

Abstract Background Although South Asians are the largest ethnic minority group in the UK, and the largest ethnic group worldwide, few studies have investigated patterns of mortality in South Asians. Methods We investigated 16,391 South Asian and 6,970 European men and women living in the UK, and participating in the London Life Sciences Prospective Population study. Participants were recruited in 2002-2008, and survival determined to 2019. We examined relationships of clinical, anthropometric, and lifestyle risk factors to mortality outcomes. Findings: Compared to Europeans, South Asians had higher prevalence of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension, higher waist-hip ratio, fasting glucose, insulin and triglycerides, but lower smoking rates and HDL cholesterol (all P<0.001). Age and sex adjusted all-cause mortality was lower (Hazard Ratio (HR): 0.75 [0.68-0.81], P<0.001), all-cancer mortality was lower (HR 0.50 [0.43-0.58], P<0.001), and coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality was higher (HR 1.29 [1.05-1.60], P<0.01) in South Asians compared to Europeans. Mortality rates were ~50% lower for 9 of the 10 most common cancers in South Asians. After adjusting for risk factors, ethnic differences were attenuated only for CHD mortality. Interpretation: All-cause and cancer mortality are lower, but CHD mortality is higher, in South Asians compared to Europeans. Measured risk factors do not explain lower all-cause and all-cancer mortality, but do account for higher CHD mortality. Our findings provide evidence for population-specific exposures protective against cancers in South Asians, as well as the motivation to further improve cardiovascular risk reduction in this major ethnic group.

Impact of motherhood and social support on the wellbeing of UK female police officers and staff

Abstract Background Female officers and staff face gender-specific challenges, particularly, during pregnancy and motherhood. Our study explores whether and how motherhood affects mental health outcomes (e.g., probable depression and anxiety) and return to work following sickness absence (SA), considering mediating role of workplace social support. Methods Logistic regression analysed probable depression and anxiety using Airwave Health Monitoring Study (AHMS) data. Cox proportional hazards models assessed return to work after sickness absence, linking AHMS with sickness absence data from 26 police forces. Exposure variables were created by the interaction of motherhood status and social support, while covariates included sociodemographic, lifestyle, and work-related factors. Results Mothers with low social support from superiors had higher odds of probable depression (OR = 2.14, 95% CI = 1.81-2.54) and anxiety (OR = 1.86, 95% CI = 1.62-2.14) compared to non-mothers. Moderate and high social support reduced odds of depression (Moderate: OR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.85-1.11; High: OR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.57-0.73) and anxiety (Moderate: OR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.12-1.36; High: OR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.75-0.9) for mothers, but the impact varied when adjusted for covariates. Mothers with lower levels of social support were less likely to return to work after SA compared to non-mothers, as indicated by the survival analysis (Low social support: HR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.95-1.13; High social support: HR = 1, 95% CI = 0.96-1.04). These trends persisted across social support sources-colleagues and combined support-emphasising the complex interplay between workplace social support, motherhood, mental health, and sickness absence in policing. Conclusions Our study emphasises boosting workplace social support for female police officers and staff, to aid them in navigating motherhood demands. This improvement can lead to better mental health, retention, job satisfaction, and organisational effectiveness, ultimately promoting community safety. Key messages • Highlighting the importance of workplace social support for female police officers and staff, informs policy makers and practitioners to prioritize social support initiatives within policing. • Lower social support was associated with a reduced likelihood of returning to work after sickness absence, particularly among mothers compared to non-mothers.

Chrono-nutrition and post-bariatric weight loss: insights from the Portuguese ChronoWise cohort

Abstract Background Post-bariatric weight loss varies substantially, and a large proportion of patients respond poorly. The literature highlights the importance of chrono-nutrition for weight regulation. This study aims to explore the chrono-related factors associated with poorer weight loss. Methods This study was conducted within the ChronoWise project, an ongoing prospective cohort study following patients undergoing bariatric surgery at the Santo António Local Health Unit, Porto. The sample included patients evaluated at both pre-surgery and 3 months post-surgery. Baseline information on meal timing was gathered through the Chrononutrition Profile-Questionnaire. The eating midpoint (midpoint between first and last meal) was calculated for work and free days. Chronotype was determined using the Munich Chronotype Questionnaire. Weight loss was expressed as the percent of total weight loss (%TWL = [(initial weight − current weight)/(initial weight)]×100). Chrono-related variables were compared according to %TWL (dichotomized by the median) using the Mann-Whitney test. Results Sixty patients were included (72% female; mean age 45±11.8). The mean baseline BMI was 44±5.6 kg/m2, which decreased to 35±5.3 kg/m2 at 3 months post-surgery, resulting in an average 20±3.9 %TWL. On free days, participants with lower %TWL tend to do the first meal later in the day (9h45 vs. 9h10, р=0.367), and later lunch on workdays (12h45 vs 12h30, р=0.531) compared with individuals with higher %TWL. Lower %TWL is typically observed in individuals having later eating midpoints (15h00 vs. 14h15 for workdays, р=0.011; 15h07 vs. 14h44 for free days, р=0.205). A later chronotype (3h37 vs 3h30, р=0.347) was also linked with poorer weight loss. Conclusions Eating later during the day and later chronotype may contribute to poorer post-bariatric weight loss. Funding: This work was supported by FCT - Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia [2021.01096.CEECIND, UIDB/04750/2020,LA/P/0064/2020&SGITR2023/EPIUnit]. Key messages • Recognizing meal timing as a modifiable lifestyle factor may optimize current approaches by aligning food intake with circadian clock. • A later chronotype, i.e. a behavioural expression of an individual’s internal circadian clock system as a preference for eveningness or later sleep timing, may negatively influence weight loss.

The interplay between healthy lifestyle and body mass index in metabolic syndrome

Abstract The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) tends to increase as body mass index (BMI) increases. However, the interplay between BMI and overall healthy lifestyle in MS remains unclear. We aimed to examine the association between healthy lifestyle and MS in BMI categories. Data comprised participants aged 30-64 years from the Healthy Finland Survey representing the Finnish adults (n = 2027). Information was collected through health examination measurements, blood sampling and questionnaires in 2023. Healthy Lifestyle Score (HLS) was defined as: 1) vegetables and fruits several times/day; 2) adherence to physical activity recommendations; 3) sufficient sleep duration; 4) no current daily smoking; 5) no risky alcohol drinking. Total score ranged 0-5; categorized as 0-2 (unhealthiest), 3, 4-5 (healthiest). MS was defined as exceeding risk limit in ≥ 3 of the following conditions: waist circumference, fasting glucose, triglycerides, blood pressure and HDL-cholesterol. BMI (kg/m2) was categorized as normal weight (<25), overweight, and obesity (≥ 30). Weighted prevalence and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) stratified by sex were calculated considering sampling design and non-response. In both sexes, the prevalence of MS was lowest in those with normal weight and healthiest lifestyle (men 7%; 95% CI 2-11; women 9%; 6-13) and highest in those with obesity and unhealthiest lifestyle (m 86%; 80-92; w 67%; 56-78). In men, the prevalence of MS decreased within each BMI class as HLS scores increased, but the difference between healthiest and unhealthiest lifestyle was greatest in those with normal weight (7% vs. 26%) and lowest in those with obesity (71% vs. 86%). In women, the differences were greatest among those with overweight. Obesity and unhealthy lifestyle together form a major risk factor for MS. Differences in the prevalence of MS according to lifestyle were evident especially in men with normal weight or overweight, but decreased when the obesity threshold was exceeded. Key messages • Obesity is strongly linked to the high prevalence of metabolic syndrome but maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important regardless of body mass index. • The results indicate the importance of multifaceted prevention influencing lifestyle factors and supporting weight management to enhance the cost-effective prevention of metabolic risk accumulation.

Correlates of food insecurity among university students in a low socioeconomic area

Abstract Background The prevalence of food insecurity (FI) is high and suggested to be growing among university students, with potential detrimental effects on their health status and academic performances. This cross-sectional study aims to identify the socioeconomic, demographic and lifestyle factors associated with FI among university students in a disadvantaged area. Methods An anonymous online survey was conducted from Nov 2022 to Jan 2023 among students enrolled at University Sorbonne Paris Nord, located in a low socioeconomic area in France. FI was assessed with one question distinguishing 2 levels of FI: quantitative (i.e. not having enough to eat) and qualitative (i.e. not having the desired food). This abstract focused on quantitative FI. To improve the representativeness of the sample compared to the total student population of the university, sample weights were used according to gender, study level and speciality, whether they were undergoing initial training or not, or obtained their baccalaureate abroad or not. Multivariable multinomial logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with FI. Results A total of 5068 students provided valid answers (20% of the target population), 66% of whom were women, and 12% and 36% reported quantitative and qualitative FI, respectively. Being a man, an undergraduate, having obtained a baccalaureate abroad, not living in the family home, not receiving food from family, having no household food-heating facilities, reporting financial difficulties, relying on food charity and eating alone on a regular basis were positively associated with quantitative FI (P < 0.0001). Those reporting quantitative FI were more likely to report academic difficulties. Conclusions This study shows a high prevalence of FI in this student population and identifies several associated factors. Identifying students at greater risk of FI is an important first step to design and evaluate public health interventions. Key messages • The different socio-economic backgrounds of university students imply important food insecurity disparities among them. • University students present several factors associated with food insecurity, which should be considered when addressing food insecurity in this population.

Practicing what you preach. Do cardiology trainees in the United Kingdom follow the lifestyle advice that they would give to patients?

Abstract Background The role of lifestyle factors in determining the risk of cardiovascular disease is well established. As a result, lifestyle modification is recommended as part of numerous European Society of Cardiology guidelines. However, it remains uncertain how closely cardiologists adhere to guidelines in their personal life. Poor lifestyle among clinicians can contribute to poor health and may increase absenteeism and potentially reduce the quality of patient care. Purpose To establish whether cardiology trainees in the UK follow appropriate guideline-directed lifestyle advice in their personal life. Methods All cardiology trainees within the UK were eligible to participate in the 2023 British Junior Cardiologists' Association (BJCA) training survey and the survey was advertised through national and local campaigns. The survey contained questions on smoking status, alcohol intake, healthy diet, partaking in regular exercise, frequency of adequate quality of sleep, and demographic questions. Responders were eligible for inclusion if they consented to participate in health and wellbeing survey questions, and if they had completed four demographic questions. Results Of the 398 responders to the 2023 BJCA survey, 212 consented to answer health and wellbeing questions (66% male, age 34±4 years, 42% had dependents) and were included. Responders included trainees representing all four UK nations. Very few cardiology trainees were current smokers either of cigarettes/cigars (n=2, 1%), or e-cigarettes (n=2, 1%), with 12 (6%) being ex-smokers. Few trainees (n=13, 6%) consumed alcohol above the UK recommended maximum of 14 units per week (Fig 1A). However, only 14% (n=29) regularly achieved 30 minutes of moderate or 15 minutes of intense exercise on at least 5 days each week (Fig 1B). Most trainees (n=167, 80%) only obtained adequate sleep on four or fewer nights each week (Fig 1C). Only 37% (n=78) of trainees agreed or strongly agreed that they were able to maintain a healthy diet most days (Fig 1D). Conclusions Most UK cardiology trainees followed guidance related to smoking and alcohol intake. However, far fewer trainees followed healthy lifestyle guidance relating to exercise, sleep, and diet. Whether these findings are similar across other ESC nations should be investigated. Further work is required to establish the impact of healthy living on clinician working activity and subsequent quality of patient care. Training bodies should consider how occupational factors may contribute to a trainee’s adverse healthy living.

Quality of life and adherence to healthy lifestyle factors among breast cancer survivors in Cyprus

Abstract Breast cancer is a prevalent disease for women globally, with rising survival rates highlighting the need to address the breast cancer survivors’ (BCS) quality of Life (QoL). Furthermore, adherence to a healthy lifestyle is associated with decreased mortality in BCS. Mapping the Lifestyle Medicine pillars and the World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research recommendations identifies 7 healthy lifestyle components: weight management, physical activity, healthy eating, restorative sleep, avoidance of risky substances, positive social connections and stress management. This study examines adherence to these healthy lifestyle components and QoL among BCS. A cross-sectional study conducted in 2022-23 recruited primary adult BCS from the Bank of Cyprus Oncology Centre. Participants completed a survey assessing self-reported QoL and adherence to the aforementioned 7 healthy lifestyle components, through validated questionnaires. Out of 349 BCS approached, 272 were included in the final analysis. Mean age and time since main treatment completion were 51 (SD: 7.4) and 3.6 (SD: 2.5) years respectively. Amongst study participants 58% were classified as bad sleepers, 53.3% were overweight or obese, 23% were stressed, 78% reported to have moderate/high physical activity, and 60% adhered to the Mediterranean diet. Regarding substance use, 16% were current smokers, and 18% were hazardous drinkers. Median score for social support was 75 (IQR: 53-97; max score=100) and for QoL was 67 (IQR: 50-97; max score:100). BCS in Cyprus generally exhibit moderate adherence to the Mediterranean diet, engage in fairly active lifestyles and enjoy high levels of social support and QoL. On the other hand, a substantial proportion smoke or drink, are overweight or obese, are stressed and have poor sleep quality. Targeted interventions to increase the adherence of breast cancer survivors to the 7 healthy lifestyle components are required. Key messages • Overall variability exists in the adherence to healthy lifestyle components among BCS in Cyprus. • This population can benefit from intervention targeting sleep, stress and weight management.

Urban Exposome and Health

Abstract Background The environment in which we live is thought to explain 70% of the non-communicable disease burden. The aim of EXPANSE project (funded from the European Union Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 874627) is to evaluate the optimal strategies for maintaining health in the context of contemporary urban environments. As a component of the project, Urban Labs allow deep phenotyping of the urban exposome and assessing its use and perception. The Urban Labs aim to improve exposure assessment, identify mediating and modifying lifestyle factors, and link the urban exposome to intermediate endpoints relevant for cardiometabolic and pulmonary health. Methods By monitoring the activities of 4,000 individuals in five distinct urban areas, Urban Labs provide a comprehensive understanding of the urban exposome, which can be compared with residential address-based model estimates. The participants complete a baseline questionnaire, repeated bi-monthly questionnaires and exposure-specific questionnaires over a period of 2 years using mobile phone application (ExpanSeeker). Two-week personalized measurements including spatial-temporal activity patterns, sensor-based environmental and behavioral measurements, and minimally invasive biological sample collection are performed covering different seasons. Results The Baseline Questionnaire (BQ) and two-weeks measurement campaigns (MC) were completed in European cities as follows: Athens BQ = 379, MC = 232; Barcelona BQ = 1040, MC = 303; Basel BQ = 731, MC = 655; Lodz BQ = 634, MC = 100; The Netherlands (multicity) BQ = 1033, MC = 326. Data collection process is ongoing. Conclusions The collection of novel data on individuals activities and perceptions within temporal and geographical contexts in Urban Labs will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of how the urban dwellers are exposed to and interact with their environment, thereby supporting healthier urban engineering and policy making. Key messages • Urban Labs will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the impact of the urban environment on individual’s behavior, their exposome, enabling more accurate prediction of non-communicable risk. • Urban Labs will provide a base to support healthier urban engineering and policy making.

Impact of hypertension education on knowledge and healthy lifestyle practices among Indian adolescents: A quasi-experimental study

Background: This study aimed to establish the effectiveness of a hypertension knowledge education intervention among Indian adolescents to foster lifestyle changes aimed at preventing hypertension. Methods: The Hypertension Knowledge Test (HKT) was used to assess changes in knowledge using a repeated-measures one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The Healthy Lifestyle Practice Scale for Children and Adolescents (HELIPSCA) indexed healthy lifestyle practices, with paired t-tests used to compare pre- and post-intervention scores. A two-way mixed ANOVA examined changes in healthy lifestyle practices among adolescents divided in terms of early and late stage of development. Results: Significant mean differences were observed in overall hypertension knowledge across four domains: general awareness, lifestyle factors, causes and care, and medication management and across time periods. There was a significant improvement in HELIPSCA scores post-intervention, particularly among early adolescents. Conclusion: The hypertension knowledge intervention examined in this study was effective in establishing a cognitive base among school children, with knowledge retention observed for 3 months. Moreover, this knowledge increase was associated with a parallel change in improved healthy lifestyle practices, notably among early adolescents. These findings underscore the importance of providing school-based education programmes early in adolescence to promote awareness of chronic illnesses and encourage healthy lifestyle choices.

The Association between Organizational Factors of Health Promoting Schools and Teachers' Health Lifestyles: A Multilevel Analysis.

Schools are both learning environments for students and workplaces for faculty. Recognizing the role of organizational factors in staff health in school environments, the study aimed to explore which factors, including transformational leadership, teachers' perceived management support and HPS accreditation awards, were most associated with promoting a healthy lifestyle for teachers. A cross-sectional study was undertaken of 137 elementary schools in 2014, involving 433 directors and 2090 teachers. Data were collected using an anonymous structured questionnaire. Hierarchical linear modeling was used to analyze both teacher- and school-level factors associated with health-promoting lifestyles. There was a significant positive correlation between teachers' overall health-promoting lifestyle profile (HPLP-II) scores and both perceived management support (coefficient = .98, p < .001) and transformational leadership (coefficient = .38, p = .039). All 6 HPLP-II subscales also showed significant positive correlations with perceived management support (coefficients .12-.24, p < .001). Supporting a healthy working atmosphere and strong principal transformational leadership are keys to enhancing teachers' health-promoting lifestyles. Future research could explore how transformational leadership and management support influence teachers' health behaviors and identify effective strategies and interventions.

Substance use and lifestyle risk factors for somatic disorders among psychiatric patients in Greenland

ABSTRACT Patients with psychotic disorders exhibit elevated mortality and morbidity rates compared to the general population primarily due to comorbid somatic diseases. This study aims to describe the prevalence of selected risk factors and somatic disorders among psychiatric patients with a diagnosis of psychotic disorder. Material and methods: Data were retrieved from Greenland’s nationwide electronic medical record. The study population consists of 104 patients diagnosed with a psychotic disorder, encompassing schizophrenia or schizotypal and delusional disorders, residing in Nuuk. The study population comprised 104 patients (68 males and 36 females) with a mean age of 40 years. More than 80% were daily smokers, and 68% had harmful use of cannabis. More than half had dyslipidemia (any imbalance in lipids), while over a quarter were classified as obese with body mass index of 30 kg/m2 or higher. Eighteen percent had hypertension, and six percent suffered from diabetes. This study revealed a notable prevalence of risk factors for somatic diseases, particularly smoking and cannabis use among patients with schizophrenia in Nuuk, indicating that a high prevalence of somatic diseases might be expected as the population gets older and the risk of developing somatic diseases becomes greater. Increased focus on monitoring and preventing those as part of the health care is recommended.

Statistical analysis of seroprevalence and risk factors of hepatitis C in Nowshera District, Pakistan

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission remains a significant public health concern. It is well documented globally, however, Nowshera district, Pakistan, is lacking such profile. This study aims to explore the relationship between HCV infection and several risk factors, including socio-demographic, clinical and personal life-style factors. This study using a cross-sectional design, examined 606 randomly selected individuals visiting the Pathology department at Qazi Hussain Medical Complex and District Headquarter (DHQ) Hospital Nowshera between May 1, 2022 and Jun 30, 2023. This research investigation employed a methodical approach involving formal interviews in conjunction with structured questionnaires to gather comprehensive information related to socio-demographic characteristics, clinical history, and personal hygiene practices. We collected 10 ml of blood samples and tested the separated serum to identify markers using the Immuno-Chromatographic Test (ICT) and the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). IBM SPSS Statistics version 27 was used for data analysis. To measure the association between dependent variable and independent variables, a chi-square and risk analysis was carried out; multiple logistic regression was employed for modeling the risk factors associated with independent variable. A statistical significance level was established at a P-value of less than 0.05. In present study, which included 606 participants, 12% were found to be infected with HCV. Importantly it revealed that facial shave at barber (adjusted odds ratio, aOR = 40.65, p = 0.000) represents the most prevalent mode of HCV transmission. Additionally, a strong association was observed between HCV infection and history of past surgery (RR = 2.98, p = 0.001), HCV infected family member (aOR = 4.28, p = 0.001), workplace injuries (aOR = 6.68, p = 0.000), history of hospital admission (RR = 2.09), practicing ear and nose piercing (aOR = 5.01, p = 0.001), dental treatment (RR = 2.31) and the frequency of injections (aOR = 8.607, p = 0.000). These findings underscore the pressing need for targeted interventions. This study highlights the paramount importance of understanding the modes of HCV transmission and their associated risk factors. The results emphasize the need for educational initiatives, both within the healthcare sector and among the general public, to combat HCV transmission effectively. By implementing sterilization procedures and increasing awareness, we can make significant strides in reducing the burden of HCV infection. Moreover, proactive measures within families can help contain the spread of the virus, ultimately contributing to improved public health.

Precision health: Determining the capacity of practicing nurses across the United States.

Precision Health (PH) holds the promise of revolutionizing healthcare by enabling personalized disease prevention and management through the integration of genomic data, lifestyle factors, environmental influences, and other social determinants of health (SDoH). However, the absence of a baseline assessment of knowledge, skills, and attitudes (KSAs) of practicing nurses' capacity for PH hinders its integration. The purpose of this study is to determine the capacity of practicing Registered Nurses (RNs) for PH across the United States and to assess the validity and reliability of a tool designed for this use-the Precision Health Nurse Capacity Scale (PHNCS). A descriptive exploratory study was conducted to evaluate the capacity of practicing RNs for this evolving phenomenon, PH, using a convenience sample. The survey was sent via email and made available to all members of the American Nurses Association (ANA) who work in a variety of practice environments. The ANA represents the over 4 million nurses practicing in the United States. The majority of nurse respondents felt it is important for nurses to become more educated about all aspects of PH including SDoH but they lack confidence in the integration of PH. The PHNCS was found to be a valid and reliable tool in measuring the capacity of nurses to practice PH. The incorporation of PH into nursing practice suffers an immediate impediment: the lack of know-how of the US nursing workforce. This inaugural data on KSAs for PH establishes a logical baseline from which the requisite education and training should commence. Precision Health is an emerging healthcare approach in the United States and globally. Enabling it will require a nursing workforce prepared with the requisite KSAs. Determining the capacity of the nursing workforce is a foundational step to begin this process.

The Variability of the Salivary Antimicrobial Peptide Profile: Impact of Lifestyle

Saliva is crucial in maintaining oral health; its composition reflects the body’s physiological and diseased state. Among salivary components, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) stand out for their broad antimicrobial activities and role in modulating the oral microbiota and innate immune response. Local and systemic diseases can affect the levels of AMPs in saliva, making them attractive biomarkers. However, the large variability in their concentrations hampers their use in diagnostics. Knowledge of the various factors influencing the profile of salivary AMPs is essential for their use as biomarkers. Here, we examine how lifestyle factors such as physical activity, dietary supplementation, tobacco smoking, and psychological stress impact salivary AMP levels. By understanding these sources of variability, we can take a step forward in using AMPs for diagnostics and prognostics and develop new tailored and preventative approaches.

A Prospective Cohort Study on Metamorphosis of Peptic Ulcer Dynamics: Insights into High Risk Paramedical Students Transformed Knowledge, Lifestyle and Symptoms Pattern

Background: This study explores the epidemiology of Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) among resident students in Komarapalayam, India, with the aim of increasing awareness, identifying influential lifestyle factors, and assessing intervention effectiveness. Methods: A comprehensive nine-month prospective cohort study involving 404 paramedical students aged 17-28 was rigorously conducted. Data collection included a meticulously validated questionnaire, high-risk subgroup identification, and the implementation of educational interventions. Statistical analyses maintained a significance threshold at p ≤ 0.05. Results: The study findings revealed a striking contrast. While the actual incidence of Peptic Ulcer Disease was lower than anticipated, the prevalence of prodromal symptoms was surprisingly high. This underscores the critical need for early symptom identification. Tailored educational interventions exhibited great promise in improving PUD comprehension. Lifestyle choices played a substantial role in susceptibility, with hostellers experiencing the highest PUD prevalence at 10.3%— the efficacy of symptom-based assessments extended beyond healthcare domains. Conclusion: This investigation underscores the urgency of early symptom recognition, personalized education, and proactive health-oriented choices to mitigate the onset of Peptic Ulcer Disease. It highlights the merit of symptom- based assessments and emphasizes the essential role of health education within tertiary institutions. This research catalyzes future initiatives aimed at enhancing the well-being of students in the context of Peptic Ulcer Disease.

Different risk and protective factors predict change of planning ability in middle versus older age

Age-related cognitive decline has become an increasingly relevant public health issue. However, risk and protective factors of cognitive decline have yet to be investigated prospectively taking into account genetic, lifestyle, physical and mental health factors. Population-based data from middle-aged (40 to 59 years; N = 2,764) and older individuals (60 to 80 years; N = 1,254) were drawn from a prospective community cohort study using the Tower of London (TOL) planning task. Assessments were repeated at a 5-year interval to investigate age-related changes in planning performance and to determine the impact of risk and protective factors. Planning performance improved in middle-aged, but declined in older participants over 5 years. SNPs affecting the dopamine system (COMT, DRD2) and APOE polymorphisms differentially predicted cognitive performance in older vs. middle-aged individuals. For older individuals, high alcohol consumption, antidepressant medication and living without a partner had additional negative predictive power on cognition. In contrast, undiagnosed hypertension, no obstructive lung disease, and fewer years of education predicted cognitive decline in the middle-aged group. The results inform screening for individuals particularly vulnerable to cognitive decline and interventions (e.g., focusing on lifestyle factors) to help maintain cognitive performance into old age.

Age and gender differences in the association between depression and body mass index among Saudi adults

BackgroundBoth obesity and depression pose significant public health challenges. Understanding the age-gender differences in the BMI-depression associations is crucial, especially in the Saudi context, where cultural norms, lifestyle factors, and socio-economic conditions may significantly influence these associations. We aimed to explore and elucidate these associations in Saudi adults, considering age and gender as crucial factors.MethodsThe research utilized a cross-sectional web-based survey to examine the impact of age and gender on the associations between BMI and depression. The study included 4,683 Saudi adults aged 18–60 years. The questionnaire assessed socio-demographics, lifestyle factors, chronic illnesses, and self-reported height and weight to calculate BMI. Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), a self-reported scale, was used to evaluate depression, categorizing participants into depression and non-depression groups. A snowball convenience sampling was utilized, with clear inclusion and exclusion criteria established to mitigate potential biases. Data analysis was stratified by age and gender, and binary logistic regression was utilized to determine the associations between depression and BMI, incorporating odds ratios (ORs) in both crude and adjusted forms, along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).ResultsThe prevalence of depression was found to be 43.3%, while 21% of participants were classified as obese. Notably, individuals in the depression group were significantly older, predominantly female, and more likely to reside in the Western and Southern regions of Saudi Arabia. They had lower family income, were more frequently non-smokers, had a higher prevalence of chronic diseases, and had higher BMI. Moreover, obese individuals had significantly higher depression scores (p < 0.05). After adjusting for confounding factors, OR for depression was significantly higher among obese individuals (1.92 [1.56–3.36]). Stratified analysis by age and gender revealed higher ORs for depression among obese participants in older age and among women.ConclusionThis study highlights a significant association between obesity and increased prevalence of depression, with notable age and gender differences in this association. The findings suggest that older adults and women, particularly those with obesity, are at a higher risk for depression. These insights emphasize the importance of tailoring public health strategies and mental health interventions to address the specific needs of these vulnerable groups in Saudi Arabia.

Gender Based Prevalence of Cervicogenic Headache

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of cervicogenic headache (CGH) among IT professionals and to understand the factors contributing to its onset, focusing on work-related habits such as prolonged sitting and poor posture. Objectives: The primary objective was to determine the incidence of CGH in individuals working in IT companies and to evaluate the impact of work hours, ergonomics, and other lifestyle factors on the development of cervicogenic headaches. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in an IT company, with data collected from 187 employees through a questionnaire and the cervical flexion rotation test. Participants reported their working hours, neck pain symptoms, and other relevant lifestyle factors. The sample included 130 males and 57 females, and the primary age group was 25-35 years. The cervical flexion rotation test was used as a diagnostic tool to assess CGH prevalence.

Relationships between oxidative balance score and asthma, COPD, with asthma-COPD overlap in American adults: findings from NHANES 2013–2018

Background Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the development of multiple chronic respiratory diseases. Oxidative Balance Score (OBS) composing of 16 dietary factors and 4 lifestyle factors has been developed to evaluate the effect of oxidants/antioxidants produced by dietary intake and lifestyle habits on the overall oxidative balance. However, the relationships between OBS with asthma, COPD, and asthma-COPD overlap (ACO) are still unclear. Methods A total of 10,942 adults aged 20 years and older from the 2013–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were included in the analyses. ANOVA and chi-square tests were used to compare characteristics between different OBS subgroups. Multiple multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the associations between OBS and asthma, COPD, and ACO.RCS curves were used to describe the dose-response effect of the associations. Subgroup analyses and interaction effects were employed to reflect the stability of the associations. Results In the fully adjusted models, OBS was found to be negatively associated with asthma, COPD, and ACO. OBS at Q2, Q3, and Q4 (OR: 0.66, 95% CI: 0.46–0.97) were negatively associated with the risk of asthma. OBS at Q2 and Q4 were negatively associated with the risk of COPD. OBS at Q2 and Q4 were negatively associated with the risk of ACO. The RCS curves reflected the negative dose-response trend of association. Moreover, the associations were stable in various subgroups. Conclusion The negative associations between OBS and asthma, COPD, and ACO were found in American adults, providing evidence for dietary and lifestyle prevention.

The epigenetic impact of daily diet food choices on human health and chronic diseases

Nutrition, certain lifestyle behaviors (smoking, drug, alcohol addictions, etc.) and environment all contribute to cancer and other lines development. Similarly, epigenetic pathways are known to occur at the intersection between the generally reversible effects of lifestyle or ecological factors and the irreversible alterations that explain numerous diseases. Chemoprevention is the process of intervening in the epigenome to mitigate the detrimental effects of environmental factors or certain lifestyles before they lead to significant consequences. DNA is permanently exposed to various substances modifying both its genetic and epigenetic configuration. It’s controlled by various agents (methyl donors, sophisticated enzymes, etc.). Pesticides, artificial food additives, drugs and environmental toxins penetrating the placenta, can result in developmental program alterations and epigenetic changes in a fetus. In nutrition context, the research revealed that several foods can alter epigenetic markers. Some vitamins may alter DNA methylation patterns and histone alterations, possibly influencing gene expression and disease risk. Thus, dietary treatments may provide an epigenetic regulation, emphasizing nutrition role in preserving health and preventing illness via epigenetics Keywords: human epigenetics, epigenetic regulation of diseases, daily food ration, healthy food