Lifestyle Practices Research Articles

Association Between Long Term Exposure to PM2.5 and Its Components on Severe Obesity in Chinese Children and Adolescents: A National Study in China

Background: The aim of this study was to explore the association between long-term exposure to particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter <2.5 μm (PM2.5) and its components and severe obesity in children and adolescents. Methods: Data for children and adolescents aged 9–18 in this cross-sectional study were obtained from the 2019 Chinese National Survey on Students’ Constitution and Health (CNSSCH). Data for PM2.5 and its components were obtained from the Tracking Air Pollution in China (TAP) dataset and matched with information on these children. Logistic regression models were used to assess the risk of severe obesity associated with long-term exposure to PM2.5 and its components. Results: A total of 160,205 children were included in the analysis. Long-term exposure to PM2.5 may increase the odds of severe childhood obesity, with this effect being more pronounced in girls. Among boys, the component with the most significant impact on severe obesity was organic matter (OM). The impact of PM2.5 and its components on severe obesity was greater in children from low economic and low parental education level households. Children with unhealthy lifestyle habits have higher odds of severe obesity due to long-term exposure to PM2.5 and its components. Conclusions: The findings of this research support the development of strategies aimed at addressing severe obesity in children, suggesting that adopting healthy lifestyle practices could mitigate the odds of severe obesity due to PM2.5 and its components. There is a need for an increased focus on children in economically underdeveloped areas and those with unhealthy lifestyle habits, particularly those in rural areas and those who do not engage in adequate physical activity or get enough sleep.

Ramadan diurnal intermittent fasting in patients with diabetes: assessment of knowledge, practices, risk of complications, and impact of pre-ramadan education.

Evaluate diabetic patients' knowledge, practices, and the prevalence of complications during Ramadan fasting (RF) before and after an education program. We conducted a prospective study including 140 consecutive diabetic patients (DP) who intended to observe RF in 2023. Patients underwent a questionnaire and received pre-Ramadan education (PRE) according to the IDF-DAR 2021 recommendations. Practices and outcomes (hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, and cardiovascular events) of RF patients were determined during Ramadan 2022 and 2023 using a questionnaire. Participants mean age was 56.0 ± 9.3 years. Their knowledge level was good, average, and poor in 37.1%, 35%, and 27.9% of cases, respectively. Before RF 2022, 40.9% of patients reported consulting their physicians about diabetes management during fasting and 12.1% received education. The risk stratification showed that 45.7% of patients were at low risk, 32.9% at moderate risk, and 21.4% at high risk. Compared to 2022 RF, significant changes in eating patterns and physical activity practice were observed in 2023. Self-monitoring blood glucose (SMBG) was practiced by 35.6% of patients in 2022 and 75% in 2023 (p < 0.001). The number of patients who fasted the whole month of Ramadan and hypoglycemia prevalence were comparable between 2022 and 2023. Hyperglycemia prevalence was higher in 2023 (14.9%) than in 2022 (3%) (p < 0.001). No severe hypoglycemia, cardiovascular events, or hospital admissions were observed during RF 2022 and 2023. The majority of diabetic patients had poor to average knowledge about diabetes and fasting. They were categorized as moderate- to high-risk of complications during RF. PRE had a positive impact on lifestyle, dietary patterns, and SMBG practice. Although this education did not lead to a decrease in hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia events, no severe metabolic or cardiovascular complications were reported.

Balancing Blood Glucose Level by Using Effective Nutrition Strategies and Change of the Lifestyle

The elevation of glucose levels in the blood adversely affects the quality of life. It is a health condition that results in a disturbance or dysfunction of a specific physiological process in the body and may manifest through various symptoms. The purpose of this research is to examine the impact of lifestyle and dietary habits in patients with hyperglycemia and to demonstrate that modifications to these factors can lead to significant improvements and regulation of hyperglycemia levels. To conduct the research, a survey questionnaire was administered to patients in Kosovo who are experiencing issues with elevated blood glucose levels. For this purpose, a total of 200 respondents aged between 27 and 85 were included. The questionnaire comprises 48 survey questions. A statistical analysis of the collected data was conducted using SPSS, Reviews, and MS Excel software applications. The data obtained indicate that the majority of respondents are aged between 51 and 60 years. According to the educational structure, a maximum of 60% has completed secondary education. A total of 23 patients exhibits normal body mass, defined as a Body Mass Index (BMI) ranging from 18.5 to 24.9. In contrast, 38% of patients, equating to 76 individuals, demonstrate excess body mass as determined by BMI criteria. Fifty percent (50%) of patients exhibiting hyperglycemia frequently omit breakfast. Eighty percent (80%) of respondents reported that they do not engage in regular exercise or that their exercise frequency is infrequent. Forty-six (46%) percent of respondents indicated that they occasionally consume fruit in quantities ranging from 250 to 500 grams. More than half of the respondents indicated that they predominantly consume bread and pasta made with whole meal flour, whereas 28% reported not consuming bread and pasta at all. Additionally, 46% of patients occasionally utilize artificial sweeteners, while 57% reported occasional use of natural sweeteners. In conclusion, it can be asserted that enhancing the lifestyle and dietary practices of patients can effectively prevent the progression of the condition and the advancement to type 2 diabetes.

Impact of astaxanthin supplementation on markers of cardiometabolic health and tactical performance among firefighters.

Firefighters are at risk for cardiovascular disease due to occupational-related inflammation, oxidative stress, and lifestyle practices. Astaxanthin (AX) possesses anti-inflammatory/antioxidant and purported ergogenic properties. This study examined the impact of supplementing the diet with 12 mg/d AX for four weeks on markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, cardiometabolic health, exercise capacity, and occupation-related performance in career firefighters. In a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, crossover fashion, 15 male career firefighters (34.5 ± 7.4 years; 177.7 ± 7.0 cm; 95.6 ± 12.0 kg; 30.1 ± 2.9 kg/m2; 11.03 ± 6.85 years of service) ingested 12 mg/d of AX (AstaReal®, AstaReal AB, Nacka, SWE) or placebo (PLA) for four weeks while following a standardized resistance training program. After each treatment, testing sessions were completed to assess inflammatory markers, oxidative stress markers, cardiopulmonary exercise capacity, and performance to a fire ground test (FGT) consisting of nine fire suppressive activities. Data were analyzed using general linear model (GLM) analysis with repeated measures. Clinical significance was assessed via mean changes from baseline with 95% confidence intervals. Analysis of mean percent changes from baseline revealed that AX supplementation lessened the inflammatory response to to performing an incremental maximal exercise test and attenuated increases in interleukin-1β, cortisol, and uric acid in response to performing fire suppressive activities compared to when they ingested PLA. However, most of these effects were within groups rather than between groups. Additionally, there was evidence that AX ingestion increased the ventilatory anaerobic threshold. Four weeks of AX supplementation did not significantly affect fasting markers of oxidative stress, blood lipids, performance during the FGT, general clinical chemistry panels, or self-reported side effects. Results provide some evidence that AX supplementation may help mediate occupation-related inflammation in response to high-intensity, short-duration exercise in firefighters. More research is warranted to determine if long-term supplementation can improve cardiometabolic risk in this population. ISRCTN10901752.

Sustainable synergy: Unveiling the symbiotic relationship between personal lifestyles and corporate sustainable business practices

This study, conducted among 596 employees across various industries, investigates the interplay between personal sustainable lifestyle scores and corporate sustainable business practices, including energy consumption and renewable energy use. The research reveals a strong correlation between individuals’ personal sustainable lifestyles and their organisations' sustainable business practices. Notably, employees consistently practising personal sustainable behaviours, including energy efficiency, tend to work in companies with robust sustainability initiatives and low-carbon strategies. Women, in particular, displayed higher engagement in sustainable behaviours. Age-related trends suggest younger employees prioritise corporate sustainability policies more than older counterparts, who focus more on personal sustainable behaviour. Among all studied sectors the production sector stands out for its high sustainable lifestyle and sustainable business practices, reflecting the impact of industry-specific sustainability trends like lean and green operations. On the one hand, sustainable lifestyle involves making choices and taking actions that enable rational consumption of goods and products, protecting natural resources, using renewable energy sources, and utilising low-emission transport means. These findings underscore the critical link between personal sustainability habits and organisational sustainability business practices, highlighting a significant avenue for promoting sustainability and reduced energy consumption in the workplace and at home.

Study of pattern of lipid profile amongst type II diabetic patients of two major tribal populations of Tripura

ABSTRACT Background: Diabetic population are at an increased risk of developing dyslipidemia and other cardiovascular complications. The study was performed to evaluate the lipid profile parameter in the diabetic population among the ethnic tribal community of Tripura and calculate the risk of cardiovascular events. The tribal community was chosen as the study population because their lifestyle, food habits, culture and housing practices are different from people living on the plains. There are 19 indigenous tribes and among them, two major tribes are the Tripuris and Reangs. These two communities were selected for the study. Aims and Objectives: To estimate the lipid profile parameters in the diabetic population of the two major tribal communities of Tripura and determine the correlations of lipid profile parameters with HbA1c. Methodology: The study was an observational analytical study. A total of 90 study subjects were selected by calculating the sample size and 90 controls were also chosen. All diabetic study subjects underwent lipid profile analysis along with other necessary investigations after having proper informed consent. Also, 90 controls had lipid profile analysis performed along with blood sugar estimation. Results: In this study, 63 subjects were from the Tripuri population and the rest 27 were from the Reang community. A total of 48 subjects were male and 42 were female. The mean age of the study population was 56.99 ± 9.97 years. Also, 31.1% of the study population was found to be having dyslipidemia and this finding was statistically significant. Risk calculation of dyslipidemia revealed that the diabetic population was 2.25 times more prone to developing dyslipidemia than the non-diabetic population. There was a positive correlation of HbA1c with low-density lipoprotein (LDL), serum triglyceride and serum cholesterol (TC) levels and these correlations were statistically significant. However, there was a negative correlation of HbA1c with high-density lipoproteins (HDL). Also, 75% of the study population was hypertensive and this finding was also statistically significant. Obesity was also an important risk factor and the association of BMI with HbA1c in the study population was statistically significant. Discussion: In all, 31.1% of the diabetic population amongst the two tribal communities was found to have dyslipidemia and this finding was statistically significant. Gender did not influence the development of dyslipidemia in diabetics and neither did the age of the study population. The duration of diabetes mellitus too had no statistically significant relationship. There exists a positive correlation of HbA1c values with LDL, triglycerides and cholesterol values indicating that uncontrolled DM is associated with dyslipidemia. HDL had a negative correlation. The ratio of TC/HDL and LDL/HDL showed that this study population is at a moderate risk of developing cardiovascular events. Also, 75% of the study population was hypertensive and risk calculation showed dyslipidemic subjects were 4.9 times more prone to developing hypertension and the calculation was statistically significant. Conclusion: The study on the tribal populations of Tripura revealed that uncontrolled DM is associated with high levels of LDL, triglycerides and cholesterol levels in spite of differences in food habits and lifestyle. Dyslipidemia is associated with hypertension. The study population is at a moderate risk for developing cardiovascular complications according to the Framingham Heart study.

Cross-sectional survey of 43,517 dogs in the Dog Aging Project identifies owner-reported lifetime prevalence and characteristics of gastrointestinal disease.

To evaluate the prevalence of and characteristics associated with owner-reported gastrointestinal (GI) disease in companion dogs within the US. Cross-sectional owner-reported survey study of 43,517 dogs enrolled in the DAP between December 26, 2019, and December 31, 2022. Dogs were grouped on the basis of having an owner-reported GI disorder (ORGID) versus not having that ORGID at any point in their history (control group). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the association between dog characteristics and ORGIDs with prevalence ORs (PORs). Of the 43,517 dogs in the DAP Pack, 30,677 (70%) had no history of ORGIDs and 12,840 (30%) had at least 1 ORGID. The most common ORGIDs included infectious diseases (7,580 of 43,517 [17%]), chronic diarrhea (1,316 [3%]), foreign bodies (1,086 [2%]), anal sac impactions (1,031 [2%]), pancreatitis (857 [2%]), inflammatory GI disease (615 [1%]), chronic vomiting (519 [1%]), and acute hemorrhagic diarrhea syndrome (388 [1%]). Compared to controls, dogs with noninfectious ORGIDs had greater odds of having a history of being castrated (POR, 2.55; 95% CI, 2.29 to 2.85), underweight (POR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.47 to 1.70), or fed primarily canned food (POR, 2.51; 95% CI, 2.21 to 2.85) or receiving probiotics (POR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.58 to 1.81) or nonprescription GI medications (POR, 4.06; 95% CI, 3.80 to 4.33). Dog owners in the US recruited from the general public reported a high prevalence of GI disorders in their dogs. Infectious and noninfectious ORGIDs were reported with approximately equal frequency. Dogs with ORGIDs were more likely to have a history of receiving probiotics or nonprescription GI medications, which may indicate that owners are changing lifestyle practices to accommodate these GI disorders, although future longitudinal research is needed.

Guidance and position of RINN22 regarding precision nutrition and nutriomics.

Precision nutrition is based on the integration of individual´s phenotypical and biological characteristics including genetic variants, epigenetic marks, gut microbiota profiles and metabolites fingerprints as well as medical history, lifestyle practices, and environmental and cultural factors. Thus, nutriomics areas including Nutrigenomics, Nutrigenetics, Nutriepigenetics, Nutrimetabolomics, and Nutrimetagenomics have emerged to comprehensively understand the complex interactions between nutrients, diet, and the human body's molecular processes through precision nutrition. This document from the Ibero-American Network of Nutriomics and Precision Nutrition (RINN22; https://rinn22.com/) provides a comprehensive overview of the concepts of precision nutrition approaches to guide their application in clinical and public health as well as establish the position of RINN22 regarding the current and future state of precision nutrition. The progress and participation of nutriomics to precision nutrition is an essential pillar for addressing diet-related diseases and developing innovative managing strategies, which will be promoted by advances in bioinformatics, machine learning and integrative software as well as the description of specific novel biomarkers. In this context, synthesizing and critically evaluating the latest developments, potential applications and future needs in the field of nutrition is necessary with a holistic perspective, incorporating progress in omics technologies aimed at precision nutrition interventions. This approach must address and confront healthy, social, food security, physically active lifestyle, sanitation and sustainability challenges with preventive, participatory, and predictive strategies of personalized, population and planetary nutrition for a precision tailored health.

Combined healthy lifestyle behaviors and all-cause mortality risk in middle-aged and older US adults: A Longitudinal Cohort Study

BackgroundWhile various lifestyle behaviors separately or partly have been shown to be associated with health outcomes, including a multitude of diseases and death, none of the earlier research has comprehensively investigated the combined impact of modified lifestyle behaviors. This longitudinal study investigated the association between a composite of healthy lifestyle behaviors and all-cause mortality in middle-aged and older Americans. MethodsWe utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2007 to 2018, as well as relevant mortality data, applying the Healthy Lifestyle Score11HLS: Healthy Lifestyle Score. (HLS) index to assess healthy lifestyle behaviors, defined by no smoking, moderate alcohol, appropriate sleep, a balanced diet, adequate physical activity, and limited sedentary time. Weighted multivariate Cox proportional hazards analyses were applied to investigate the associations between these lifestyle practices and overall mortality, followed by stratified analyses to explore potential effect modifications by subgroups. ResultsThis study included 5448 participants, categorized into unfavorable (28%), intermediate (56%), and favorable (16%) HLS groups. During a median 103-month follow-up, 388 participants died. Cox regression revealed that individuals with favorable lifestyles had a reduced likelihood of death than those with unfavorable lifestyles (HR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.34-0.70). There was a linear negative relationship established between HLS and the likelihood of all-cause death (p for non-linearity = 0.0512). ConclusionAdherence to a composite of healthy habits is linearly and substantially related to decreasing the likelihood of all-cause mortality among the elderly in the U.S., highlighting the substantial benefits of maintaining these behaviors for longevity and health.

Mitigating Environmental Degradation: The Strategic Roles of Muslims for Human Well-Being and Planetary Stability

As environmental crises escalate, with rising global warming, ice melting, species extinction, and pollution, urgent action is required to safeguard humanity and the planet. This article reviews the literature on environmental risks in Muslim countries, particularly poorer ones. The environmental impact equation (I = f [T, P, A]) underscores the key drivers—technology, population, and affluence, with affluence identified as the primary driver of climate change resulting from excessive carbon emissions. The wealthiest one percent produce approximately 70 times more carbon than the poorest 50%, yet it is poorer communities that disproportionately suffer the consequences. This paper examines how Muslims can contribute to sustainability and mitigate environmental damage by addressing ecological “overshoots,” promoting “degrowth” and “steady-state” economies, and fostering qanāʿah (contentment) as a personal lifestyle practice. The emphasis is placed on affluence, rather than population, as the critical factor in combating climate change.

Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome and Its Associated Risk Factors Among Schoolchildren Aged 11-13 Years Living in Thiruvananthapuram District, Kerala, India: A Nested Case-Control Study.

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that includes increased blood pressure, increased blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and a rise in triglyceride levels which could increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. While metabolic syndrome is typically associated with adults, concern is growing about its prevalence and implications among children and adolescents. The rapid rise in childhood obesity and physical inactivity has led to an increase in risk factors among young populations, making it a pressing public health issue. This study aims to investigate the risk of metabolic syndrome among children aged 11-13 years, exploring its association with various sociodemographic and clinical factors. A nested case-control study was conducted from June 2021 to November 2021 among a cohort ofschool children aged 11-13 years in Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala, India. Twenty-two clusters (schools) were identified from the schools in Thiruvananthapuram's educational subdistrict using populations proportionate to size. Data on the sociodemographic characteristics and lifestyle practices of 1,580 schoolchildren and their parents were collected using a questionnaire. Body mass index, waist circumference, and blood pressure were also assessed to screen children for metabolic syndrome. Fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, and high‑density lipoprotein levels were evaluated in 57 cases (children with metabolic syndrome after screening) and 116 controls (children without metabolic syndrome after screening). The prevalence of pediatric metabolic syndrome as defined by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) classification in the sample was 3.6% (n=57) (95%CI 1.6-6.6). Modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors found to be associated with pediatric metabolic syndrome after multivariate analysis were gender, decreased physical activity, especially organized physical activity and moderately vigorous physical activity or play, skipping meals, sleeping for less than eight hours at night, eating with screens on, use of screens for more than two hours daily, and preference for soft drinks or carbonated drinks over water when thirsty. This studyalso evaluated the predictive power of the associated factors for pediatric metabolic syndrome using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. The ROC curve showed an area under the curve of 0.926 (95% CI: 0.891-0.961, p < 0.001), indicating high predictive power. The findings of this study brought out evidence of an escalation in the rate of metabolic syndrome among children in their early adolescent stage. This rise is a trend with increasing sedentary time and the overuse of screens by the younger generation in this modern era of gadgets and technologies. Our findings would act as a catalyst in implementing community and school-based activities to improve physical activities and lifestyle modifications among children, thereby reducing the risk of early development of metabolic syndrome.

Prevalence and risk factors associated with psychological distress among children in Penang, Malaysia: A stratified multistage cluster study

Mental health is a state of mind influences one thinking, feeling and acting from inside and outside that are vital for children's normal growth and development. Psychological distress may results in serious mental health problem if left untreated. Hence, early diagnosis can largely improve the condition from being deteriorating. This study determined the prevalence of psychological distress and its associated risk factors among children in Penang, Malaysia. The study applied stratified multistage cluster sampling for the recruitment of children, and their socio-demographics background, health and lifestyle practices, and the prevalence and risk factors of psychological distress were succinctly studied. The study provides a fundamental platform for informing parents and policy makers about psychological distress, and the need to strategize potential health intervention for achieving optimum human well-being.•Stratified multistage cluster sampling was useful to study the prevalence and risk factors of psychological distress in a children population.•DASS-Y is robust for brief dimensional measure of depression, anxiety and stress among children.

장애·위험군학생의 5-생애핵심역량 기반 생활관리역량 강화를 위한 프로그램 모형 개발

The purpose of this study was to develop a model of a life management competency strengthening education program based on 5-Lifelong Key Competencies to strengthen the core competencies required throughout the lifespan of disabled and at-risk students. To this end, literature research and case studies were reviewed, and expert content validity verification was conducted to investigate the validity of model development. The results are as follows: First, the model of the 5-life core competency strengthening education program established an overall model outline in the order of life management competency, interpersonal relationship competency, lifelong learning competency, career development competency, and global citizenship competency derived according to importance and urgency. Based on these 5 areas, a program model was constructed with 12 sub-areas. Second, the life management competency strengthening program model was divided into two tracks: health management competency and life control competency strengthening program. The health management competency strengthening program consisted of safety management, physical management, and hygiene management modules, and the life control competency strengthening program was It consists of smartphone addiction management, emotional control, and stress management modules, and was developed as a lifestyle connection and practice model.

A conceptual framework for digital health marketing strategies to enhance public health outcomes in underserved communities

This paper proposes a conceptual framework for integrating digital health marketing strategies with public health initiatives to enhance healthcare access and outcomes in underserved communities. The framework focuses on leveraging digital marketing tools such as social media, mobile applications, email campaigns, and search engine optimization to disseminate critical health information, promote preventive measures, and engage communities in healthier behaviors. It addresses the persistent challenges faced by underserved populations, including limited healthcare access, low health literacy, and cultural barriers, by utilizing the accessibility and broad reach of digital channels. The proposed framework incorporates three core components: (1) Health Information Dissemination, which explores the use of targeted digital campaigns to provide culturally relevant and accessible health education; (2) Community Engagement, which leverages interactive platforms such as social media and mobile apps to foster participation in preventive healthcare initiatives and healthy lifestyle practices; and (3) Behavioral Change Promotion, which emphasizes using digital tools to influence health behaviors through personalized messaging, reminders, and virtual support groups. By integrating digital marketing strategies into public health programs, the framework aims to improve healthcare outcomes by increasing awareness of preventive measures, enhancing early diagnosis, and promoting disease management. It also underscores the role of data analytics in refining outreach efforts by identifying specific health needs, tracking engagement, and measuring the effectiveness of interventions. This conceptual framework holds promise for healthcare providers, policymakers, and digital marketers seeking to enhance public health outcomes in underserved communities. It provides a structured approach to combining the strengths of digital marketing with public health goals, creating more inclusive, accessible, and effective health interventions. Future research and case studies can build on this model to refine digital health marketing strategies and assess their long-term impact on public health in underserved populations.

Exploring non-smokers’ attitudes toward e-smoking: results from the Minerva Project Europe

Abstract Background In the shifting paradigm of tobacco use, the attitudes of non-smokers toward e-cigarettes are crucial for public health planning, as in the literature it has been suggested that non-smokers who use e-cigarettes could be more prone to switch to tobacco. This multi-center study investigates the interplay between traditional smoking and the potential benefits of transitioning to e-smoking, through a comprehensive examination of smoking behaviors, dietary, and lifestyle practices. Methods MINERVA (My changINg lifEstyles, our Research, and eVeryone’s heAlth) is an ongoing prospective international cohort study aimed at investigating the association between smoking habits and dietary and lifestyle habits among the study participants. The secondary objective pertains to the assessment of subjects’ willingness to try e-cigarettes. We implemented an univariable logistic regression analysis on a dataset comprising 2367 nonsmokers to identify factors influencing their willingness to smoke e-cigarettes. Results Employment significantly predicted willingness, with employed non-smokers showing a higher likelihood to consider e-smoking (OR 2.5, p = 0.002). Household dynamics, specifically the presence of children, also affected the decision, indicating a protective effect against adopting e-smoking (OR 1.26, p &amp;lt; 0.001). Lifestyle choices, particularly fitness and dietary habits, played a discernible role. Surprisingly, age inversely correlated with the willingness to try e-smoking, as younger non-smokers were more likely to consider it (OR 0.97 per year increase, p &amp;lt; 0.001), suggesting that this openness could increase their risk of future tobacco use, which carries important public health consequences. Conclusions The study’s outcomes underscore the impact of socio-economic and lifestyle factors on non-smokers’ openness to e-cigarettes. These insights are pivotal for devising culturally competent educational campaigns and regulatory policies. Key messages • In the shifting paradigm of tobacco use, the attitudes of non-smokers toward e-cigarettes are crucial for public health planning. • By thoroughly analyzing smoking habits, diet, and lifestyle choices, the Minerva Project research aims to shed light on the complex dynamics between health behaviors and smoking.

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.

Obesity in childhood - literature review and educational recommendations

Introduction and purpose Childhood obesity is a major global health concern. The World Health Organization reports that the prevalence of obesity in children and adolescents has increased significantly from 4% in 1975 to over 18% in 2016. The aim of the study is to conduct a comprehensive review of the literature on obesity among children and adolescents, emphasizes the importance of prevention, identification and effective management of childhood obesity. Materials and methods An extensive examination of articles published in scientific journals was carried out through online research platforms PubMed and Google Scholar. We searched articles by entering keywords in appropriate configuration: “childhood obesity”, “pediatric overweight”, “physical activity”, “activity and health”, “diet and obesity", "bariatric surgery" and "obesity medication". State of knowledge Treating childhood obesity requires following a personalized weight loss program, as well as adopting healthy eating habits and lifestyle practices. Improvements in metabolic and anthropometric indices can be achieved through complex interventions including dietary modification and physical activity, behavioral therapy, health promotion education, pharmacological treatment and bariatric surgery A step-by-step approach to managing weight is recommended, considering the child's age, the severity of obesity, and any accompanying health conditions. Dietary interventions focus on promoting a balanced, nutrient-rich diet that is calorie-appropriate for the child's age and gender. Summary Further research is still necessary to develop additional pharmaceutical options, refine surgical techniques, and better understand long-term outcomes in this patient population.To effectively prevent this disease, a comprehensive approach is necessary, considering both education and changes in the social environment.

Testing the Feasibility of a Newly Developed Lifestyle Practice Targeting Social Connections: Narrative Healing Circle Shared Medical Appointments.

Multi-method, voluntary recruitment of eligible patients, included referrals, flyers, hospital events page, and patients who participated in an ongoing 7-week integrative oncology SMA series. Two physicians (lifestyle medicine and chaplaincy specialists), both trained in narrative medicine, co-led one-hour long virtual NHC SMAs held every other week for a total of either 4 or 8 sessions. Sessions included a centering meditation, brief check-in, topic introduction, short writing exercise initiated with a written, musical, or visual prompt, followed by time of sharing and listening. Optional electronic pre and post participant surveys were emailed at enrollment (7-questions, response rate 29%) and after 4-8 NHC SMA sessions (12-questions, RR 34%). Virtual NHC SMA were offered from 2/23/22-8/30/23 with 62 unique participants, 266 total visits. Average age: 57years (range: 27-84 years). Gender: 85% Female, 15% Male; Ethnicity: 73% White, 16% African American, 6% Asian, 5 % Hispanic. About half lived in underserved areas (Harlem, Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn). Payor mix included 40% Medicare, 60% Commercial insurance. Session attendance: 6 participants (mean); 1-13 (range). The number of sessions attended ranged between 1-28 sessions. Anxiety or fear (89%), depression (61%) and pain (67%) were the top 3 symptoms reported in the pre-survey. After 4-8 sessions, participants reported improvements in anxiety/fear (43%), sadness/depression/hopelessness (33%), irritability/stress (33%), isolation/loneliness (33%). They reported several positive changes: restarting yoga or meditation practice, greater focus on awe, journaling, increased mindfulness, and feeling better equipped to manage stress. 94% reported goals met, 95% would recommend the series to others. The 2 clinician leaders reported increased empathy, personal well-being, and work satisfaction. Virtual NHC SMA series among mixed diagnosis population is feasible, positively affects patients' agency and well-being, and acceptable to patients and providers. A more formal study design with broader representation of diverse population and assessment of causality such as an RCT with longer follow-up is recommended.

Healthy in ancient and modern times

Background: Health practices have evolved from ancient holistic approaches to modern scientifically driven methods. This comparative study aims to explore the continuity and transformation in healthcare practices from ancient times to the present, highlighting the enduring principles of wellness and the advancements in medical science. Methods and Material: The research employs a comparative analysis of ancient health practices, such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, against modern health practices influenced by scientific and technological advancements. Sources include archaeological findings, historical texts, and contemporary scientific literature. Results: Ancient health practices emphasized a holistic approach, integrating diet, lifestyle, and spiritual practices to maintain balance and harmony. Modern health practices prioritize evidence-based treatments, technological interventions, and preventive care, leading to significant improvements in health outcomes. Both approaches highlight the importance of preventive measures, personalized care, and a comprehensive understanding of health and well-being. Conclusion: This study reveals that despite the methodological differences, the fundamental objective of fostering health and well-being remains constant across time. Integrating ancient wisdom with modern scientific advancements offers a more holistic approach to health, addressing physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of well-being.

Rice Blast Disease

The purpose of this document is to increase awareness of rice blast disease by describing its lifestyle, symptoms, and current disease mitigation practices. Given that the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) plays a vital role in rice cultivation, this publication is also intended for Florida rice growers to be used as a diagnostic field guide in the identification and management of rice blast disease. Written by Nalleli Garcia, Rachel Kalicharan, and Jessie Fernandez Garcia, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, September 2024.