Lifestyle Parameters Research Articles

Association between simple, combined lipid markers and 20-year cumulative incidence of type 2 diabetes: the ATTICA cohort study (2002–2022)

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to evaluate the association between simple, combined lipid biomarkers, and 20-year cumulative incidence of new type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among adults participating in the ATTICA cohort study (2002–2022).MethodsThe present analysis included data from 2000 individuals free of T2DM at baseline (age 43 ± 13 years; 51% women). Sociodemographic, anthropometric, lifestyle, clinical, and biochemical parameters were collected at baseline and follow-up examinations; combined lipid markers were evaluated.ResultsThe 20-year cumulative incidence of T2DM was 26.3% (95%CI 24.4, 28.3%). All, simple and combined lipid markers were independently associated with new T2DM onset. The accuracy of simple and combined markers was approximately 75%, without any significant differences between simple and combined indices. The additive correct classification gain of lipid markers to glucose metabolism indices on 20-year new T2DM cumulative incidence varied between 0.9% for cardiometabolic index to 10.6% for LDL-cholesterol.ConclusionsLipid profile is associated with the long-term onset of T2DM. Evaluated through simple or combined markers, lipid profiles can be utilized for identifying and improving risk stratification in individuals at high risk for T2DM, while also enhancing the effectiveness of primary prevention measures and public health strategies.

Образ жизни и психологическое благополучие как предикторы позитивного представления о старении

The relevance of the study is determined by the the necessity to understand the contribution of various aspects of one’s lifestyle to the structure of the adults’ perception of aging in order to further construct a productive old age of the population. The research purpose is to study the influence of the components of a healthy lifestyle and psychological well-being on a positive view on aging. The study hypothesizes that a healthy lifestyle and psychological well-being contribute to the formation of a positive image of aging. Participants: N = 92 aged 22–64 (Av. age = 34.5; SD = 12.9) from different regions of the Russian Federation, 27.2% of them are men, 72.8% are women. The methods (tools) used include the technique for determining the perception of aging based on the foreign tool “The Aging Perceptions Questionnaire” (APQ) (M. Barker, A. O’Hanlon, H.M. McGee, A. Hickey, R. M. Conroy); the questionnaire “Healthy Lifestyle Profile” (M. D. Petrash, O. Y. Strizhitskaya, I. R. Murtazina). The K. Riff’s Scale of Psychological Well-Being (in adaptation by E. G. Troshikhina, L. V. Zhukovskaya) was used to determine the manifestation level of the psychological well-being components. Results: the use of ANOVA allowed us to single out the differences in the parameters of ‘Physical activity’, ‘Internal growth’, ‘Stress management’ and the general indicator of well-being (ProZOZH), as well as in the parameter of psychological well-being “Competence” towards its greater manifestation in the group with a conscious approach to life. No statistically significant differences in the parameters of the concept of aging have been revealed.The study has evaluated the correlation between the perception-of-aging parameters, healthy lifestyle (HLS), psychological well-being and the age and the degree of one’s lifestyle awareness. The structure of the correlation between the parameters of a healthy lifestyle, as well as of a psychological well-being, and the perception of aging is revealed. The main conclusions. The approach to one’s lifestyle plays a significant role for a positive view on aging through the inclusion of healthy lifestyle components; psychological well-being stabilizes the determinant role of aging in human life and affects “positive control”. Practical significance: the materials can be used in individual psychological work to form a positive perception of aging and to construct a productive old age through lifestyle correction in the adult population.

Impact of Oxidative Stress on Sperm Quality in Oligozoospermia and Normozoospermia Males Without Obvious Causes of Infertility.

Background: Male factors contribute to approximately 50% of infertile couples. However, obvious causes remain unknown in many cases. This observational study aimed to investigate the associations of clinical and lifestyle parameters with sperm parameters. Methods: This study enrolled 41 men in infertile couples without obvious causes for male infertility from July 2023 to April 2024. Semen samples were evaluated for sperm number, motility, DNA fragmentation, and oxidative stress (OS) marker oxidation-reduction potential (ORP). Blood samples were analyzed for biochemical parameters, including advanced glycation end products (AGEs), and systemic OS marker diacron-reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs). Skin-accumulated AGE levels were identified with an autofluorescence method. Lifestyle factors were assessed with a lifestyle questionnaire. Results: Most of the participants were under 40 years old and non-obese with normal clinical parameters. Multiple regression analyses revealed that body mass index, serum d-ROMs, and semen ORP levels were independently associated with decreased sperm number. Additionally, serum zinc and semen ORP levels were associated with sperm motility. Furthermore, serum zinc and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were associated with sperm progressive motility and DNA fragmentation, respectively. The rest of the clinical and lifestyle factors, including skin-accumulated and serum AGE levels, were not correlated with any sperm parameters. Furthermore, serum d-ROM and semen ORP levels were not correlated with each other or any of the clinical and lifestyle factors. Conclusions: Our present study indicates that both systemic and local OS may be independently involved in sperm abnormality in healthy men without obvious causes for male infertility.

Unhealthy Lifestyle Contributes to Negative Mental Health and Poor Quality of Life in Young University Students.

Background: A negative lifestyle is reported to be related to poor mental health and quality of life (QOL). However, there is little information on this in university students. The objective of the present study was to investigate the association between mental health (i.e., anxiety, depression symptoms and stress), QOL, SWLS and lifestyle parameters (i.e., PA, sleep duration, ST and food habits) among Chilean university students and then to determine the differences in mental health, QOL, SWLS and lifestyle parameters according to gender. Methods: This cross-sectional study included a total of 211 university students (128 females and 83 males) aged 18-28 years. Mental health, QOL and lifestyle were measured through validated questionnaires. Results: Bad food habits (lowest score in the food survey) were linked to anxiety (2.3 [0.22-4.36], p = 0.03), depressive symptoms (3.75 [1.54-5.9], p = 0.001) and stress (2.24 [0.31-4.17], p = 0.023). Furthermore, <6 h of sleep was related to poorer mental health (13.5 [7.6-19.5], p = 0.001), anxiety (4.2 [2.0-6.4], p < 0.001), depressive symptoms (5.5 [3.2-7.9], p < 0.001) and stress (3.8 [1.8-5.9], p < 0.001). In addition, ≥4 h of ST was linked positively to negative mental health (8.3 [2.86-13.7], p = 0.003), depressive symptoms (3.45 [1.47-5.4], p = 0.001) and anxiety (3.2 [1.05-5.4], p = 0.004). Non-physical activity was related to the scores for anxiety (2.6 [0.20-5.0], p = 0.030), depression (2.7 [0.009-5.3], p = 0.049) and stress (2.4 [0.12-4.7], p = 0.039). Conclusions: this study showed that unhealthy lifestyle factors (i.e., insufficient sleep, lack of PA and prolonged ST) were strongly associated with poorer mental health and QOL in university students. These findings highlight the importance of addressing these aspects of lifestyle in intervention and health promotion programs aimed at young university students in order to improve their mental health and overall QOL.

Dietary intake and sleep in late childhood - do shorter children have distinct patterns?

The exceptional growth rate during adolescence demands increased dietary intake. We aimed to compare diet and lifestyle of pre-adolescents with height and weight below the 10th percentile, with those of pre-adolescents of higher height and weight. This case-control study included healthy pre-pubertal girls (≥9 years) and boys (≥10 years). The case groups included 31 girls and 32 boys with height and weight <10th percentile, and weight percentile ≤height percentile. The control groups comprised 24 girls and 24 boys, with height ≥25th percentile, BMI 5th-85th percentiles. Participants completed 3-day food diaries and lifestyle-related questionnaires. Energy intake/estimated-requirement and protein/body-weight were comparable in the case and control groups, both in boys and girls. In boys, fat (P = 0.050) and carbohydrate (P ≤ 0.001) intakes/body-weight were higher in the case group versus controls; and iron (P < 0.001), zinc (P = 0.005), vitamin A (P < 0.001), calcium (P = 0.005), and vitamin C (P = 0.034) consumption were lower. In girls, carbohydrate/body-weight was higher in the case group compared to controls (P = 0.007); micronutrient intake was comparable, and lower than recommended. Compared to controls, short and thin boys reported less sleep during weekdays (P < 0.001). Relatively short, thin pre-adolescents may have distinct dietary intake and sleeping patterns compared to taller peers, especially boys. Nutrition is a key environmental determinant of childhood growth. Not much is known about late nutritional impact on growth in children whose anthropometric indices are below the 10th percentile. We compared food diaries and lifestyle questionnaires of pre-pubertal pre-adolescents with height <10th percentiles and weight≤height for age and sex, with those of peers with indices in higher percentiles. We found distinct differences in micronutrient intakes and sleep duration in the shorter boys, but no energy deficit in either sex. We suggest that diet and lifestyle parameters should be evaluated in children with relatively low anthropometric indices, to ensure optimal growth.

Impact of Shift Work and Job Category on Lifestyle Factors and Readiness to Change Among Hospital Workers: A Case-Control Study.

Shift work is essential in health care because of the need for 24-hour services but it is associated with adverse health outcomes, including disrupted circadian rhythms, poor sleep, unhealthy dietary habits, and increased stress. These effects may differ across job categories, such as nursing officers and hospital support staff, owing to varying physical and psychological demands. Limited research exists on how shift work impacts these groups differently, particularly regarding readiness to change unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. This study aims to assess and compare lifestyle factors across six domains - nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress, social relationships, and addictions - between hospital support staff and nursing officers with rotating shifts versus fixed daytime duties. It also aims to evaluate the association between readiness to change lifestyle patterns and work type and determine the influence of job category and shift type on lifestyle parameters after adjusting for confounders such as demographics and body composition. A case-control study was conducted at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Nagpur from December 2023 to June 2024. The study involved 327 participants (165 cases and 162 controls) comprising nurses and hospital support staff, aged 21-45 years. The case group included 83 nurses and 84 hospital support staff working rotating shifts for at least three years, while the control group consisted of 81 nurses and 81 staff members with fixed daytime schedules. General assessments, including demographics, body composition (InBody 770), and lifestyle assessments across nutrition, physical activity, sleep (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index; PSQI), stress (Perceived Stress Scale; PSS-10), social connectivity (Social Support Questionnaire), and alcohol use (a modified version of the 10-item Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT-C)) were performed. Readiness to change lifestyle behaviors was assessed using the stages of the change model. Shift workers had a significantly higher body weight (p = 0.030), larger waist circumference (p = 0.029), and higher calorie intake (p = 0.043) than non-shift workers. They also exhibited lower cardiovascular fitness (p = 0.021) and reduced water intake (p = 0.043). Among the nursing officers, shift workers had significantly poorer sleep quality (p = 0.003) and higher calorie intake (p = 0.046). Stress levels were paradoxically lower among shift nurses (p = 0.025) but not among support staff. Readiness to change lifestyle behaviors did not differ significantly between shift and non-shift workers across all domains. Logistic regression showed that sleep quality was significantly associated with shift work among nursing officers (odds ratio (OR): 6.503, p = 0.038), while no significant associations were found for other lifestyle parameters. This study highlights the adverse effects of shift work on body composition, calorie intake, cardiovascular fitness, and sleep quality among hospital workers, particularly nursing officers. Despite these health risks, readiness to change lifestyle behaviors was similar between shift and non-shift workers, suggesting that shift work may not directly influence the motivation for lifestyle changes. These findings underscore the need for tailored interventions targeting specific health challenges of shift workers to improve their overall well-being and productivity.

Mediterranean-type diet trajectories and 20-year cardiovascular disease incidence: the ATTICA study (2002-2022)

Abstract Background/Introduction The protective effects of the Mediterranean-type diet (MTD) against cardiovascular disease (CVD) are well-known. However, based on a recent systematic review of 57 studies with 1,125,560 participants, MTD adherence has declined worldwide, even in the Mediterranean region, compared to the past, especially in the last decade. Moreover, studies evaluating changes in diet and CVD risk are scarce. Purpose The aim of this study was to longitudinally evaluate MTD adherence and changes in MTD adherence during 20-years of follow-up and its relation to 20-year CVD incidence. Methods Participants initially free-of-CVD from the ATTICA study were used (n=1,986). At 2002 and 2022, CVD events were assessed according to WHO-ICD-10 and MTD adherence was assessed via MedDietScore (range: 0-55). Hence, MTD trajectories were defined according to MTD adherence in 2002 and in 2022 as: low-low, low-high, high-low, high-high (i.e., high: MedDietScore &amp;gt;27/55). Results During the 20-year follow-up, 30.2% (n=600) of the participants were always away (i.e., low-low), 30.0% (n=596) went away (high-low), 21.4% (n=424) were always close (high-high) and 22% got closer (low-high) to the MTD. The 20-year CVD incidence was: 38.8% (n=233), 87.7% (n=321), 10.2% (n=61) and 24.3% (n=103) in those in the low-low, low-high, high-low and high-high trajectory, respectively (p-value&amp;lt;0.001). In multi-adjusted models, adjusted for socio-economic, clinical and lifestyle parameters, it was found that compared to those who were always away from the MTD, those who were always close had 68% lower CVD risk [Hazard Ratio-HR: 0.32, 95%Confidence Interval-CI: 0.14, 0.72], while those who went away during the 20-year follow-up had 47% lower CVD risk [HR: 0.53, 95%CI: 0.32, 0.86]. Conclusion Our study findings highlight the long-lasting effects of the MTD adherence early in the life-course. Public health measures to prevent CVD should focus on facilitating MTD adherence, as early in life as possible.

Prevalence and association of uncorrected refractive error among Chinese adolescents: a cross-sectional study.

Uncorrected refractive error (URE) is one of the main causes of visual impairments. URE may reduce interaction and learning in the classroom, leading to social isolation, irreversible amblyopia, lack of external knowledge, and restrictions on education and employment opportunities. Our aim was to investigate the prevalence and related factors of URE in adolescents using epidemiological surveys and questionnaire surveys related to lifestyle habits. A cross-sectional school-based study was conducted in Nantong, China, including adolescents 12-19 years of age from 16 schools. URE was defined as presenting visual acuity worse than 6/12 and improving to ≥ 1 lines after correction in either eye. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to investigate specific correlations between URE and related lifestyle parameters. Non-cycloplegic autorefraction was assessed for each adolescent. A total of 2,910 adolescents were analyzed, of which 50.3% (n = 1,465) were male, and 49.7% (n = 1,445) were female. The mean age was 15.23 ± 1.77 years. The overall prevalence of URE was 23.7%. The total prevalence of REC and eREC was 85.1% and 71.7%, respectively, and both of them showed an increasing trend with age (Ptrend = 0.018 and Ptrend = 0.019, respectively). A higher prevalence of URE was related to myopia, anisometropia, and increased daily use of electronic products. Timely visual examination by medical institutions, more extracurricular homework, and older age were protective factors for URE. Among the 689 adolescents with URE, 362 (52.5%) did not receive any refractive correction, and 327 (47.5%) used corrected glasses. URE was highly prevalent among adolescents in China. Myopia was the most important risk factor for URE. The impact of anisometropia and increased daily use of electronic devices on URE was significant. Timely visual examinations by medical institutions served as an effective protective factor against URE. Further research on adjusting intervention strategies is therefore needed to eliminate preventable visual impairments.

Thyroid Dysfunction In Metabolic Syndrome In Patients: An Observational Study

Objective: To assess the clinico-demographic profile thyroid dysfunction (TD in patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS). Methods: Research was done at the Medical Department. We included 200 MetS patients in this investigation. Demographics, anthropometric measurements, significant medical (including FPG, serum TG, and HDL-C values from patients' medical records) and surgical history, family history, lifestyle parameters, history of obesogenic medicine use, vital signs, and physical examination details were collected in case report forms at the screening visit. Results: We included 200 MetS patients in this investigation. The baseline demographics of these patients are presented. Of the recruited patients, 60 (30%) had TD, with women being more likely than males. Overt hypothyroidism was detected in 36 of 200 MetS patients and hyperthyroidism in 4. High waist circumference, lowered HDL-C, elevated HOMA-IR, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, fasting hyperglycemia, and TG were seen in TD patients in this research. More women than men had waist circumferences exceeding 80 cm. Conclusion: Metabolic syndrome complications include thyroid problems. High frequency of TD in MetS patients suggests a thyroid-MetS interaction. This investigation will help link TD and MetS in Indian patients. Early identification of TD in MetS may help change disease course with lifestyle modifications.

The Prevalence of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome among Polish Women without Pre-Existing Cardiovascular Conditions and Diabetes: A Multicenter Study in Poland.

Background: A very prevalent problem worldwide is not only the high prevalence of chronic conditions but also the high frequency of their underdiagnosis and unhealthy lifestyles, both resulting in the development and inadequate treatment of civilization diseases. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of abnormal metabolic parameters among Polish women aged >35 years who have not yet been diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes or chronic kidney disease, as well as evaluate their lifestyles and look for relationships between individual lifestyle parameters and metabolic abnormalities. Methods: This was a multicenter, cross-sectional, observational study conducted on a group of women aged ≥ 35 years without previous cardiovascular disease, diabetes or chronic kidney disease. As part of the study, patients had anthropometric measurements and laboratory tests performed (serum glucose, total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, non-HDL cholesterol and triglycerides) and completed the HLPCQ (the Healthy Lifestyle and Personal Control Questionnaire). Obesity was defined as BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2. Abdominal obesity was defined as a waist circumference ≥ 88 cm. Results: The study included 672 women considered healthy. In the analyzed group of women, 20.6% met the criteria for a diagnosis of obesity based on BMI, and 36.8% were diagnosed with abdominal obesity. In addition, 16.8% of the women had an abnormal fasting blood glucose result. Moreover, 46.4% of the women's blood pressure measurements were above the normal range, and as many as 57.7% of the women had abnormal non-HDL levels. In addition, 150 women met the criteria for a diagnosis of metabolic syndrome. These conditions were far more common in women diagnosed with obesity. Physical activity was associated with a reduced risk of developing obesity and metabolic syndrome. Conclusions: The underdiagnosis of chronic conditions in the study population is high. More than 20% of women met the criteria for a diagnosis of metabolic syndrome, the prevalence of which was significantly higher in patients with obesity. A healthy lifestyle was associated with a reduced risk of developing metabolic syndrome and its individual components. It is necessary to actively search for chronic conditions in patients, which requires the involvement of not only healthcare system employees but also government representatives.

Uncontrolled hypertension among adult patients at ambulatory primary care: Frequency and factors associated in urban and peri-urban Bobo–Dioulasso, Burkina Faso

IntroductionThis study described the different stages of uncontrolled hypertension, and assessed independently of the socio-demographic parameters, the non-modifiable and modifiable factors associated with uncontrolled hypertension at ambulatory care, in urban and peri-urban primary health care centres (PHCCs) of Bobo–Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. MethodsA sample of 380 hypertensive adults were consecutively interviewed from January to February 2022, in 20 public PHCCs, in Bobo-Dioulasso. Sociodemographic, non- and modifiable lifestyle, anthropometric and blood pressure parameters were collected. Descriptive, comparative and logistic regression tests were performed. ResultsThe participants’ mean age was 56.2 ± 10.4 years and frequency of uncontrolled hypertension stage I, II and III was respectively 40.3 %, 23.3 % and 7.9 %. Those with family history of hypertension was 42.4 %. Participants with monotherapy, bi-therapy and tri-therapy represented 51.6 %, 42.6 % and 2.1 % respectively, while 38.2 % declared to be uncompliant with the therapy. About 36 % were current alcohol users, 29.7 % physically inactive, 23.7 % ate less than three servings of fruits and vegetables (FV), 15.3 % were obese, and 12.9 % current tobacco users. In logistic regression analysis, the presence of family history of hypertension [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.1; p = 0.005], use of bi-/tri-therapy (aOR = 1.7; p = 0.044), daily intake of less than three FV servings (aOR = 1.9; p = 0.025); non-adherence with therapy (aOR = 3.3, p = 0.0001) and obesity (aOR = 4.5; p = 0.003) were associated with uncontrolled hypertension. ConclusionUncontrolled hypertension was high at ambulatory primary care. For its efficient management in secondary prevention, a tailored in-hospital strategy including permanent education for a healthier lifestyle practice is needed; and should be complementary strengthened with specific community-based interventions.

Supporting follow-up care in colorectal cancer patients: first experiences with the Assessment of Burden of ColoRectal Cancer (ABCRC)-tool.

The Assessment of Burden of ColoRectal Cancer (ABCRC)-tool is a unique tool that includes a PROM focused on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), functional outcomes and lifestyle assessment. Furthermore, it provides visualization of results and treatment advice. The tool aims to support follow-up consultations of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the first experiences of patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs) with the ABCRC-tool. The ABCRC-tool was implemented in two Dutch hospitals and used by 25 patients and 5 HCPs during follow-up care. Consultations were audio-recorded and their content was analyzed independently by two researchers. Semi-structured interviews with patients and HCPs were conducted after the consultation. Interviews focused on the overall experience with the tool, ease of use, interpretation of the PROM and the visualized results and on the added value of the tool. Audio recording revealed that multiple topics, relevant to patients, were discussed during consultations with the ABCRC-tool. Patients and HCPs appreciated the ABCRC-tool as it added structure to the consultation, was helpful in the preparation of consultations and provided useful and convenient treatment options. The tool was easy to use, and the visualization was clear and informative. HCPs suggested that the tool is likely to be most relevant for patients in the first year of follow-up. This study implies that the ABCRC-tool is of added value for patients and their HCPs. Future research should focus on the evaluation of broad implementation, across a wide range of CRC patients. The ABCRC-tool is a valid tool to support CRC survivors and HCPs to monitor and visualize experienced burden of disease and lifestyle parameters in order to optimize personalized care.

Better understanding of c-reactive protein and leukocytes in psychiatric inpatients with affective disorders: A biopsychosocial approach.

Affective disorders (AD) have been linked to inflammatory processes, although the underlying mechanisms of this relationship are still not fully elucidated. It is hypothesized that demographic, somatic, lifestyle, and personality variables predict inflammatory parameters in AD. To identify biopsychosocial factors contributing to inflammation in AD measured with two parameters, C-reactive protein (CRP) and leukocytes. This observational study investigated 186 hospital inpatients diagnosed with AD using demographic parameters, serum inflammatory markers, somatic variables, psychological questionnaires, and lifestyle parameters. Hierarchical regression analyses were used to predict inflammatory markers from demographic, somatic, lifestyle, and personality variables. Analyses showed that 33.8% of the variance of CRP was explained by body mass index and other somatic medication (e.g. anti-diabetics), age and education, and age of affective disorder diagnosis. For leukocytes, 20.1% of the variance was explained by smoking, diet, metabolic syndrome (MetS), and anti-inflammatory medication (e.g. non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Other psychiatric or behavioural variables did not reach significance. Metabolic components seem important, with mounting evidence for a metabolic affective disorder subtype. Lifestyle modifications and psychoeducation should be employed to prevent or treat MetS in AD.

Association between Active Commuting and Lifestyle Parameters with Mental Health Problems in Chilean Children and Adolescent.

Little is known about the association between active commuting (i.e., walking or cycling to school) with lifestyle parameters and mental health in youths. The objective of the present study was to investigate the association between mental health problems and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress with lifestyle (i.e., food habits, screen time, physical activity, and sleep quality), active commuting, and gender. A total of 511 children and adolescents (boys, n = 249; girls, n = 262) aged 10 to 17 years participated in the study. Lifestyle parameters and mental health were evaluated using the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Girls reported higher levels of anxiety (p = 0.001), depression (p = 0.001), and stress (p = 0.001). Mental health problems showed a positive association with gender (girls, β = 3.06, p < 0.001) and a negative association with food habits (β = -0.65, p = 0.019). Anxiety was positively associated with gender (β = 7.88, p < 0.001) and negatively associated with food habits (β = -0.23, p = 0.019). Gender (girls) and food habits were also associated with symptoms of depression (β = 2.29, p < 0.001 and β = -0.27, p = 0.005, respectively). Finally, active commuting was inversely associated with stress (β = -1.24, p = 0.008), and stress was positively linked to gender (β = 2.53, p < 0.001). Active commuting, lifestyle parameters, and gender were associated with mental health in children and adolescents. Moreover, girls reported higher levels of anxiety, symptoms of depression, and stress.

A comprehensive investigation of atherosclerosis in the 10-25 age group through medico-legal autopsies

Introduction: Atherosclerosis, a leading cause of coronary heart disease (CHD), remains a global health concern with a rising prevalence in young populations, particularly in regions like Kerala, India. Despite advancements in social indicators, Kerala faces an alarming surge in CHD cases among its youth. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of atherosclerosis in coronary arteries and the aorta among individuals aged 10–25 years, shedding light on etiological factors influencing CHD.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Forensic Medicine, Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram, India, involving medico-legal post-mortem examinations. Sixty-four cases aged 10-25 years were included, with data collected on personal, physical, and lifestyle parameters. Autopsy-based examinations focused on atherosclerosis in coronary arteries and the aorta, utilizing a detailed histopathological classification system.Results: The study revealed a high prevalence of atherosclerosis, with 60.9% of cases exhibiting aortic lesions, and varying percentages observed in coronary arteries. Associations were found between atherosclerosis and age, family history of heart disease leading to death, cigarette smoking, recreational drug use, and personal history of heart disease.Conclusion: This study underscores the concerning prevalence of atherosclerosis among young individuals and emphasizes the need for antiatherogenic preventive measures and targeted awareness programs against cigarette smoking and recreational drug abuse. It calls for novel therapeutic approaches and public health campaigns to promote lifestyle modifications and mitigate atherosclerosis-related early mortality and morbidity. Policy implications include recognizing atherosclerosis as a condition affecting young populations and advocating for comprehensive research approaches with larger sample sizes and genetic studies to identify potential genetic contributions to atherosclerosis development. Limitations include challenges in obtaining accurate lifestyle histories during autopsies and the need for larger, multicenter studies to provide deeper insights into risk factors and age-related trends.

Association of parent-child health parameters and lifestyle habits - the “epi-family health” longitudinal study protocol

BackgroundLifestyle and habits, cardiovascular risk factors (CRF), bone and mental health, dietary habits, physical activity, among others are developed in childhood and adolescence. Family environment has shown to play an important role in these outcomes. However, whether the parent-child relationship lifestyle habits and health parameters can be influenced by physical activity patterns still unclear. The objective of this study will be to monitor and investigate the associations between lifestyle habits between parents and their children longitudinally, as well as verify whether in more active parents, the possible associations with lifestyle habits are different from those of parents considered less active.MethodsThe sample will consist of parents (father, mother, or both) and their children /adolescents. The participants will be recruited through public call by flyers spread across all the regions of the city and also through social media. The health parameters will include cardiovascular (cardiac autonomic modulation, blood pressure and resting heart rate), bone mineral density, anthropometric indices, handgrip strength, mental health (quality of life, anxiety and depression symptoms and stress), self-reported morbidities and musculoskeletal pain. Lifestyle habits will include physical activity levels, sedentary behavior, sleep parameters, eating patterns, smoking and alcohol consumption. Sociodemographic variables of age, sex, ethnicity and socioeconomic status will be considered as covariates. The follow-up visits of data collection will be scheduled after a period of 12 months from the baseline assessment during every twelve months.DiscussionThe family environment has great potential to determine lifestyle habits in children and adolescents. Based on the results presented in the present study, we hope that health promotion actions can be better designed in the family environment.

The association between parameters of physical activity and olfactory function-the importance of frequency and moderate intensity.

Overall physical activity (PA) has been linked to decreased olfactory dysfunction and could improve olfactory function. Additionally, decreased olfactory function can contribute to reduced overall PA levels, given its association with neurodegenerative disorders. This study aims to examine the relationship between specific PA parameters (duration, frequency, intensity) and olfactory function in adults. A total of 3,527 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2013-2014 underwent assessments for weekly PA duration, frequency, and intensity, alongside a smell test (including odors such as chocolate, strawberry, grape, onion, smoke, natural gas, leather, and soap). Correlation analyses and binary logistic regressions using SPSS were used to evaluate associations. The total smell score exhibited small yet significant positive correlations with the duration, frequency, and volume of moderate PA (correlation coefficients ranging between 0.05 and 0.08; all p ≤ 0.05) and frequency of vigorous PA (correlation coefficient of 0.05; p < 0.05). For moderate PA, the duration, frequency, and volume were significantly and positively associated with the ability to correctly detect the smell of grapes while the frequency was significantly and positively associated with the ability to identify smoke and leather odors (odds ratios ranging from 1.01 to 1.07; p < 0.05). For vigorous PA, the frequency of PA was positively associated with the detection of grape smell (odds ratio of 1.05; p < 0.05). Some parameters of an active lifestyle are associated with improved odds of accurately identifying odors by up to 7.4%. Moderate PA duration, frequency, and volume were linked to better olfactory scores, while high-intensity PA had limited associations.

Dietary fibre intake and its association with ultraprocessed food consumption in the general population of Switzerland: analysis of a population-based, cross-sectional national nutrition survey

ObjectivesThe objective of this study was to describe the compliance to dietary fibre recommendations of the Swiss population and to investigate the association between dietary fibre intake and ultraprocessed food...

Machine learning-based comparison of factors influencing estimated glomerular filtration rate in Chinese women with or without non-alcoholic fatty liver.

The prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD) has increased recently. Subjects with NAFLD are known to have higher chance for renal function impairment. Many past studies used traditional multiple linear regression (MLR) to identify risk factors for decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). However, medical research is increasingly relying on emerging machine learning (Mach-L) methods. The present study enrolled healthy women to identify factors affecting eGFR in subjects with and without NAFLD (NAFLD+, NAFLD-) and to rank their importance. To uses three different Mach-L methods to identify key impact factors for eGFR in healthy women with and without NAFLD. A total of 65535 healthy female study participants were enrolled from the Taiwan MJ cohort, accounting for 32 independent variables including demographic, biochemistry and lifestyle parameters (independent variables), while eGFR was used as the dependent variable. Aside from MLR, three Mach-L methods were applied, including stochastic gradient boosting, eXtreme gradient boosting and elastic net. Errors of estimation were used to define method accuracy, where smaller degree of error indicated better model performance. Income, albumin, eGFR, High density lipoprotein-Cholesterol, phosphorus, forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), and sleep time were all lower in the NAFLD+ group, while other factors were all significantly higher except for smoking area. Mach-L had lower estimation errors, thus outperforming MLR. In Model 1, age, uric acid (UA), FEV1, plasma calcium level (Ca), plasma albumin level (Alb) and T-bilirubin were the most important factors in the NAFLD+ group, as opposed to age, UA, FEV1, Alb, lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) and Ca for the NAFLD- group. Given the importance percentage was much higher than the 2nd important factor, we built Model 2 by removing age. The eGFR were lower in the NAFLD+ group compared to the NAFLD- group, with age being was the most important impact factor in both groups of healthy Chinese women, followed by LDH, UA, FEV1 and Alb. However, for the NAFLD- group, TSH and SBP were the 5th and 6th most important factors, as opposed to Ca and BF in the NAFLD+ group.

Healthy Lifestyle Related to Executive Functions in Chilean University Students: A Pilot Study.

A negative lifestyle is reported to be related to cognitive problems. However, there is little information about this in relation to university students. The objective of the present study was to investigate the association between executive functions (EFs) and lifestyle parameters (i.e., physical activity (PA), sleep duration, screen time (ST), and food habits) among Chilean university students. This cross-sectional study included a total of 150 university students (94 females and 56 males, aged 21.28 ± 3.15 and 22.18 ± 2.90 years, respectively). Cognitive outcomes were measured using the CogniFit assessment battery. Lifestyle was measured through validated questionnaires. Across the total sample, attention exhibited a positive association with PA h/week (β: 24.34 95% CI: 12.46 to 36.22, p = 0.001). Additionally, coordination was positively associated with PA h/week (β: 15.06 95% CI: 0.62 to 29.50, p < 0.041). PA h/week was positively linked with reasoning (β: 20.34 95% CI: 4.52 to 36.17, p = 0.012) and perception (β: 13.81 95% CI: 4.14 to 23.49, p = 0.005). Moreover, PA h/week was significantly linked to memory (β: 23.01 95% CI: 7.62 to 38.40, p = 0.004). In terms of the EFs, PA h/week showed a positive association with cognitive flexibility (β: 45.60 95% CI: 23.22 to 67.69, p = 0.001). In conclusion, lifestyle (PA h/week) was positively associated with EFs. Therefore, an increase in PA levels among these students should be a target for community- and university-based interventions in order to promote cognitive development such as attention, coordination, reasoning, perception, memory, and cognitive flexibility.