Non-modifiable Factors Research Articles

IJCM_156A: A Cross-sectional study on the Prevalence of Risk Factors of Breast Cancer and Awareness of Breast Cancer Screening in Women of age group 30 to 70 years in Karamadai Block of Coimbatore Health Unit District

Background: Breast cancer, the most common malignancy among women globally, recorded over 2.26 million new cases and almost 685,000 deaths in the same year. Evidence indicates breast cancer risk links to both modifiable and non-modifiable lifestyle factors. Promoting education and access to screening programs is crucial for early detection and intervention in breast cancer. This approach ultimately enhances the effectiveness of prevention efforts and reduces complications and mortality of breast cancer. Objective: To estimate the prevalence of risk factors of breast cancer and to assess the awareness of breast cancer screening in women of age group 30-70 years in Karamadai Block of Coimbatore Health Unit District. Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted among 150 women in Coimbatore using a semi-structured questionnaire and statistical analysis was done using SPSS 21 version. Results: Out of 150 participants, the mean age of subjects was 50 ± 11 years, with 98% being married women. The prevalence of modifiable and non- modifiable risk factors of breast cancer were found to be 61% and 9% respectively. 54% were aware of government facility-based breast cancer screening. But only 25% had undergone screening for breast cancer. Individuals who underwent breast cancer screening in the last one year found to be aware of breast cancer screening compared to those who did not. (OR 2.5, 95% CI 2.02-3.18). Conclusion: Awareness and screening for breast cancer are low among the study participants. Women =30 years of age attending all outpatient departments in any health facility should be educated regarding the importance of screening of breast cancer.

Age-Related Hypertension: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Influencing Factors

Background:Hypertension is characterized by high blood pressure, with systolic pressure above 140 mmHg and diastolic pressure above 90 mmHg, and it commonly affects the elderly population. There are two types of risk factors for hypertension, namely modifiable and non-modifiable factors. Method: This research employed a quantitative method with an analytical survey design using a case-control method. The sample size consists of 60 respondent, selected using a purposive sampling technique. Results: Statistical tests indicated a significant correlation for variables such us family history (?-value 0.0001), salt consumtion (?-value 0.0001), stress/anxiety (?-value 0.005), and compliance with a healthy lifestyle (?-value 0.003), with the occurrence of hypertension. On the other hand, age (?-value 0.278), gender (?-value 0.091), obesity status (? value 0.390), smoking status (?-value 0.243), and caffeine/coffee consumtion habits (?-value 0.196) did not show any significant correlation with hypertension occurrence. Conclusion: Family history, salt consumtion, stress/anxiety, and compliance with a healthy lifestyle are factors affecting the occurrence of hypertension in the elderly at Sokaraja 1 Public Health Care Center. However, age, gender, obesity status, smoking status, and caffeine/coffe consumtion habits do not contribute to hypertension.

Busting Breast Cancer Myths: A Deep Dive into Epidemiology, Risk Factors and Effective Management

Breast cancer is marked by uncontrolled cell growth leading to invasive tumors in the breast ducts and lobules. Risk factors include modifiable elements like lifestyle choices and nonmodifiable factors such as age and genetic mutations. Global epidemiology sheds light on prevalence and contributing factors, crucial for prevention and management. Classification involves histopathological and molecular criteria, encompassing various subtypes. Diagnosis relies on imaging techniques like mammography and biopsies, with minimal radiation exposure. Treatment includes hormone treatment, targeted therapy, radiation, chemotherapy, surgery, and immunotherapy, with immune checkpoint inhibitors such as PD-1 and PDL-1 being used in particular. The intricate tumor microenvironment involves diverse cell types and factors like hypoxia and exosomes, presenting challenges and opportunities for therapeutic advancements in the breast cancer management.

Variation in Lymph Node Assessment for Colon Cancer at the Tumor, Surgeon, and Hospital Level.

We hypothesized that tumor- and hospital-level factors, compared with surgeon characteristics, are associated with the majority of variation in the 12 or more lymph nodes (LNs) examined quality standard for resected colon cancer. A dataset containing an anonymized surgeon identifier was obtained from the National Cancer Database for stage I to III colon cancers from 2010 to 2017. Multilevel logistic regression models were built to assign a proportion of variance in achievement of the 12 LNs standard among the following: (1) tumor factors (demographic and pathologic characteristics), (2) surgeon factors (volume, approach, and margin status), and (3) facility factors (volume and facility type). There were 283,192 unique patient records with 15,358 unique surgeons across 1,258 facilities in our cohort. Achievement of the 12 LNs standard was high (90.3%). Achievement of the 12 LNs standard by surgeon volume was 88.1% and 90.7% in the lowest and highest quartiles, and 86.8% and 91.6% at the facility level for high and low annual volume quartiles, respectively. In multivariate analysis, the following tumor factors were associated with meeting the 12 LNs standard: age, sex, primary tumor site, tumor grade, T stage, and comorbidities (all p < 0.001). Tumor factors were responsible for 71% of the variation in 12 LNs yield, whereas surgeon and facility characteristics contributed 17% and 12%, respectively. Twenty-nine percent of the variation in the 12 LNs standard is linked to modifiable factors. The majority of variation in this quality metric is associated with non-modifiable tumor-level factors.

Microsurgical treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysms: An Ethiopian experience

IntroductionIn this ambispective cohort study, the authors share their experience with surgical outcomes of intracranial aneurysms in a resource-limited setting. MethodsThe study spans a 10-year period (January 2010 to December 2022) at Myungsung Christian Medical Center (MCM) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Patient data, aneurysm characteristics, preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative factors, along with patient outcomes, were collected using a structured questionnaire. Data analysis employed SPSS version 25, utilizing descriptive statistics and Multivariable logistic regression to identify independent predictors of outcomes. The primary outcome measure was the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) at discharge. ResultsThe study included 71 patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysms, with 63 aneurysms clipped in 62 patients. No sex predilection was observed. Aneurysms were predominantly in the anterior cerebral circulation (98.6%), with 60.6% in the anterior communicating artery. Aneurysm size was less than 10 mm in 75.76% of cases. Favorable outcomes were achieved in 83.9% of patients, while 16.10% had unfavorable outcomes. Unfavorable outcomes correlated with a worsening neurological grade assessed by the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). The occurrence of delayed vasospasm and hemiparesis showed strong predictive value. ConclusionThe study demonstrated acceptable mortality and favorable outcomes. Patient outcomes in ruptured cerebral aneurysms were primarily influenced by non-modifiable factors, such as GCS on admission and neurological deficit. GCS exhibited a superior predictive value for outcomes compared to commonly used WFNS and Hunt–Hess scales in patients with intracranial aneurysms.

Factors associated with successful liberation from continuous renal replacement therapy in children and young adults: analysis of the worldwide exploration of renal replacement outcomes collaborative in Kidney Disease Registry.

Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is used for supportive management of acute kidney injury (AKI) and disorders of fluid balance (FB). Little is known about the predictors of successful liberation in children and young adults. We aimed to identify the factors associated with successful CRRT liberation. The Worldwide Exploration of Renal Replacement Outcomes Collaborative in Kidney Disease study is an international multicenter retrospective study (32 centers, 7 nations) conducted from 2015 to 2021 in children and young adults (aged 0-25years) treated with CRRT for AKI or FB disorders. Patients with previous dialysis dependence, tandem extracorporeal membrane oxygenation use, died within the first 72h of CRRT initiation, and those who never had liberation attempted were excluded. Patients were categorized based on first liberation attempt: reinstituted (resumption of any dialysis within 72h) vs. success (no receipt of dialysis for ≥ 72h). Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with successful CRRT liberation. A total of 622 patients were included: 287 (46%) had CRRT reinstituted and 335 (54%) were successfully liberated. After adjusting for sepsis at admission and illness severity parameters, several factors were associated with successful liberation, including higher VIS (vasoactive-inotropic score) at CRRT initiation (odds ratio [OR] 1.35 [1.12-1.63]), higher PELOD-2 (pediatric logistic organ dysfunction-2) score at CRRT initiation (OR 1.71 [1.24-2.35]), higher urine output prior to CRRT initiation (OR 1.15 [1.001-1.32]), and shorter CRRT duration (OR 0.19 [0.12-0.28]). Inability to liberate from CRRT was common in this multinational retrospective study. Modifiable and non-modifiable factors were associated with successful liberation. These results may inform the design of future clinical trials to optimize likelihood of CRRT liberation success.

Does Inclement Weather Increase the Risk of Cardioembolic Stroke in Kashmir Valley?

Background Cardioembolic strokes are a common cause of mortality and morbidity because they are usually big and multiple. Despite extensive advances in the determination and management of modifiable risk factors of these strokes, a significant proportion are attributed to non-modifiable factors. We wanted to test the hypothesis that cardioembolic strokes and no other subtypes of ischemic stroke are associated with inclement weather in Kashmir Valley where winter seasons have harsh weather. Results A total of 540 ischemic stroke patients were included in the study of which cardioembolic strokes were most common. Cardioembolic strokes were more common in the winter season and associated with lower minimum and maximum temperatures. Conclusion Evaluation and management of cardioembolic strokes during winter months may demand more attention, particularly in elderly individuals and those with risk factors for atrial fibrillation.

Hypertension as a risk factor in stroke: An overview

Stroke is the second most common cause of mortality and the third most common cause of disability worldwide. Stroke has modifiable and non-modifiable factors. Stroke risk factors that can be modified include hypertension. Hypertension can lead to endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis. Hypertension is also influenced by a dynamic and complex interaction between environmental and genetic risk factors. Since there are numerous contributing factors to hypertension, it is a preventable risk factor for stroke.

N17 Exploration of medication non-adherence in Inflammatory Bowel Disease patients: A systematic review

Abstract Background Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has recognised medications to maintain remission and prevent relapse. Yet between 53–75% of people with IBD do not take medications as prescribed. Identifying and improving medication adherence in IBD is a primary treatment goal to keep symptoms quiescent. This systematic review aims to identify why people are adherent and non-adherent to IBD medications. Methods Studies exploring medication adherence for IBD conducted between 2012-2022, were identified in six electronic databases. The quality of quantitative and qualitative studies was assessed using a scoring system or the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme, respectively. Results 39,603 participants were included across 79 studies investigating IBD medication adherence, mainly from single outpatient clinic populations, using cross-sectional surveys. Most data were quantitative, rated medium quality. Few studies were based around a theory to explain adherence. Non-adherence was most typically measured using a version of the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale or the study’s own self-report questionnaire, with non-adherence ranging from 4.3%-88.9%. In multivariable analysis of quantitative data, younger age and female gender were usually associated with non-adherence. The presence of smoking, psychological issues (depression, treatment concerns, anxiety) or lower social status were also significant non-adherence risk factors. Most typically investigated were clinical variables, many being significantly related with non-adherence, including medication type (specifically 5-ASA), route (oral, rectal, subcutaneous, intravenous), high and low disease activity and poor disease/medication knowledge. Significant results were often contradictory between studies, as was the relationship direction with non-adherence. Forgetting medication was the main reason for non-adherence in qualitative interviews, with side effects, costs, medication concerns and busy lifestyle also variables. Cohort-specific factors were reported for non-adherence in pregnant women, adolescents and patients during COVID.Conclusion Adherence to treatment is essential in IBD. Yet a large and confusing literature exists regarding factors underpinning non-adherence. Clinicians should be aware of those non-modifiable factors, to help identify relevant patients and support their treatment programme. Potentially modifiable factors including medication regimes, route and patient knowledge, could be targeted to improve adherence in IBD. Theoretically informed interventions need to be developed. A successful evidence-based intervention supporting medication adherence could help improve quality of life for patients living with IBD, whilst providing patient-centred care and minimising health costs.

Potentially modifiable factors associated with health-related quality of life among people with chronic kidney disease: baseline findings from the National Unified Renal Translational Research Enterprise CKD (NURTuRE-CKD) cohort.

Many non-modifiable factors are associated with poorer health-related quality of life (HRQoL) experienced by people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We hypothesize that potentially modifiable factors for poor HRQoL can be identified among CKD patients, providing potential targets for intervention. The National Unified Renal Translational Research Enterprise Chronic Kidney Disease (NURTuRE-CKD) cohort study recruited 2996 participants from nephrology centres with all stages of non-dialysis-dependent CKD. Baseline data collection for sociodemographic, anthropometric, biochemical and clinical information, including Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale renal, Hospital Anxiety and Depression score (HADS) and the 5-level EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D-5L) as HRQoL measure, took place between 2017 and 2019. EQ-5D-5L dimensions (mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort, anxiety/depression) were mapped to an EQ-5D-3L value set to derive index value. Multivariable mixed effects regression models, adjusted for known factors affecting HRQoL with recruitment region as a random effect, were fit to assess potentially modifiable factors associated with index value (linear) and within each dimension (logistic). Among the 2958/2996 (98.7%) participants with complete EQ-5D data, 2201 (74.4%) reported problems in at least one EQ-5D-5L dimension. Multivariable linear regression identified independent associations between poorer HRQoL (EQ-5D-3L index value) and obesity (body mass index ≥30.0kg/m2, β -0.037, 95% CI -0.058 to -0.016, P=.001), HADS depression score ≥8 (β -0.159, -0.182 to -0.137, P<.001), anxiety score ≥8 (β -0.090, -0.110 to -0.069, P<.001), taking ≥10 medications (β -0.065, -0.085 to -0.046, P<.001), sarcopenia (β -0.062, -0.080 to -0.043, P<.001) haemoglobin <100g/L (β -0.047, -0.085 to -0.010, P=.012) and pain (β -0.134, -0.152 to -0.117, P<.001). Smoking and prescription of prednisolone independently associated with problems in self-care and usual activities respectively. Renin-angiotensin system inhibitor (RASi) prescription associated with fewer problems with mobility and usual activities. Potentially modifiable factors including obesity, pain, depression, anxiety, anaemia, polypharmacy, smoking, steroid use and sarcopenia associated with poorer HRQoL in this cohort, whilst RASi use was associated with better HRQoL in two dimensions.

Relationship between difference of preoperative and cardiopulmonary bypass mean arterial pressure, and acute kidney injury in cardiac surgical patients undergoing valve surgery.

Modifiable and non-modifiable factors contribute to development and progression of acute kidney injury (AKI) during cardiac surgery. We hypothesized that, the difference between preoperative mean arterial pressure (MAP) and the average mean arterial pressure maintained on cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) would be strongly predictive of AKI. We also measured plasma Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), to establish its association with cardiac surgery associated-AKI (CSA-AKI). One hundred and twelve high-risk patients undergoing valve, and valve plus coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery under cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) were included in this study. Delta mean arterial pressure (MAP) was calculated as the difference between the average of pre-operative and on-bypass MAP, and blood was sampled for NGAL levels, at baseline, and 6-h after CPB. Detailed data collection was done, tabulating most of the factors which might influence development of post-operative cardiac surgery associated-AKI (CSA-AKI). To define CSA-AKI within the first 24-h post-operatively, the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) classification was used. Out of 112 patients, 44 (39.3%) developed CSA-AKI postoperatively. With an ROC analysis cut-off of delta MAP of more than 25.67 mmHg, 46.4% patients developed post-operative AKI, and the average CPB flows which were 1.8 ± 0.2 were not contributory to the development of early CSA-AKI. In our study, ELISA test for human NGAL was performed on serum samples, and the estimated cut-off value of 1661ng/mL was found to be significantly associated with early CSA-AKI. Delta MAP and CPB flows are not related to early post-surgical CSA-AKI in cases with prior high-risk elements. However, baseline serum NGAL, as well as its percent change during the early post-surgical period independently predicted the development of CSA-AKI. This implies that, there may be patients with a higher pre-operative preponderance to develop this complication, which could actually be delineated by the use of serum NGAL estimations at baseline.

The Influence of Age, Gender, Health-Related Behaviors, and Other Factors on Occupationally Relevant Health Complaints of Singers.

Professional singers' careers are usually associated with health-relevant factors that they themselves may or may not be able to influence. We have therefore investigated the effect of modifiable health-related behaviors and non-modifiable factors on singers' occupational health. In an explorative, questionnaire-based study, self-reported, occupationally relevant health complaints and behaviors, along with singer-specific characteristics, were surveyed from 349 professional singers and voice teachers (116 men, 233 women; age 18-73 years) and the influence of age, gender, duration of daily and lifelong singing, voice category, and health-related behaviors (smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity) on occupationally relevant health complaints were analyzed using bi- and multivariate statistical methods. Singers reported less risky alcohol consumption (5.4% versus ≈15%) and smoking (15.5% versus 29.7%) than the general population, and too little physical activity was described in two thirds of both populations. After controlling for multiple testing, no effect was found for these behaviors, the time spent singing daily, gender, or voice categories on singers' complaints. Health complaints were significantly fewer for males (P < .001) and older women and were reported more frequently for higher-pitched male voices, a trend not found in females. Singers seem to smoke and drink less than members of the general population. These factors did not affect their complaints. Female singers described more work-related health complaints than males, a finding that corresponds to women in the general population. Older singers reported fewer complaints than younger singers, possibly because of selection effects or older singers acquiring strategies to avoid health-damaging behavior.

Investigating the brain's neurochemical profile at midlife in relation to dementia risk factors.

Changes in the brain's physiology in Alzheimer's disease are thought to occur early in the disease's trajectory. In this study our aim was to investigate the brain's neurochemical profile in a midlife cohort in relation to risk factors for future dementia using single voxel proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Participants in the multi-site PREVENT-Dementia study (age range 40-59 year old) underwent 3T magnetic resonance spectroscopy with the spectroscopy voxel placed in the posterior cingulate/precuneus region. Using LCModel, we quantified the absolute concentrations of myo-inositol, total N-acetylaspartate, total creatine, choline, glutathione and glutamate-glutamine for 406 participants (mean age 51.1; 65.3% female). Underlying partial volume effects were accounted for by applying a correction for the presence of cerebrospinal fluid in the magnetic resonance spectroscopy voxel. We investigated how metabolite concentrations related to apolipoprotein ɛ4 genotype, dementia family history, a risk score (Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging and Incidence of Dementia -CAIDE) for future dementia including non-modifiable and potentially-modifiable factors and dietary patterns (adherence to Mediterranean diet). Dementia family history was associated with decreased total N-acetylaspartate and no differences were found between apolipoprotein ɛ4 carriers and non-carriers. A higher Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging, and Incidence of Dementia score related to higher myo-inositol, choline, total creatine and glutamate-glutamine, an effect which was mainly driven by older age and a higher body mass index. Greater adherence to the Mediterranean diet was associated with lower choline, myo-inositol and total creatine; these effects did not survive correction for multiple comparisons. The observed associations suggest that at midlife the brain demonstrates subtle neurochemical changes in relation to both inherited and potentially modifiable risk factors for future dementia.

Factors Influencing Compliance to Follow-up Visits in Orthopaedic Surgery.

Orthopaedic procedures require postoperative follow-up to maximize recovery. Missed appointments and noncompliance can result in complications and increased healthcare costs. This study investigates the relationship between patient postoperative visit attendance and the distance traveled to receive care. A retrospective review of all surgeries performed by a single orthopaedic surgeon in 2019 at level 1 trauma center in a midsized city serving a largely rural population was completed. We excluded patients who underwent another subsequent procedure. Distance to care and time traveled were determined by the patient's address and the clinic address using Google Maps Application Programming Interface. Other variables that may affect attendance at follow-up visits were also collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was done with purposeful selection. We identified 518 patients of whom 32 (6%) did not attend their first scheduled follow-up appointment. An additional 47 (10%) did not attend their second follow-up. In total, 79 patients (15%) did not attend one of their appointments. Younger age, male sex, Black or African American race, self-pay, Medicaid insurance, accident insurance, and increased distance were individual predictors of missing an appointment. In the final multivariate logistic regression model, male sex (OR 1.74), Black or African American race (OR 2.78), self-pay (OR 3.12), Medicaid (OR 3.05), and traveling more than 70 miles to clinic (OR 2.02) markedly predicted missing an appointment, while workers' compensation (OR 0.23) predicted attendance. Several nonmodifiable patient factors predict patient noncompliance in attending orthopaedic postoperative visits. When patients are considered at high risk of being lost to follow-up, there may be an opportunity to implement interventions to improve follow-up rate and patient outcomes, minimize patient costs, and maximize profitability for the hospital.

Factors associated with survival in patients with visceral leishmaniasis treated at a reference hospital in northern Minas Gerais - Brazil.

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a public health problem and is a relevant cause of death in developing countries. This study aimed to evaluate the 20-year survival and predictors of worse prognosis in patients with VL admitted to a reference hospital for the treatment of infectious diseases between 1995 and 2016 in northern Minas Gerais, an area of high endemicity for VL. This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a hospital in northern Minas Gerais, Brazil. All patients with VL were evaluated over a 20-year period. The medical records were thoroughly analyzed. Cox regression analysis was performed to estimate factors associated with the probability of survival. The cohort included 972 individuals, mostly male children <10 years old, from urban areas who presented at admission with the classic triad of fever, hepatosplenomegaly, and skin pallor. The mean hemoglobin level was 7.53 mg/dl. The mean interval between symptom onset and hospital admission was 40 days. The instituted therapies ranged from pentavalent antimonates to amphotericin, or both. The probability of survival was reduced to 78% one year after symptom onset. Hemoglobin levels and age were strongly associated with the probability of survival. Regardless of the mechanism underlying the reduction in hemoglobin and the non-modifiable factors of age, early initiation of drug treatment is the most appropriate strategy for increasing survival in patients with VL, which challenges health systems to reduce the interval between the onset of symptoms and hospital admission.

Causes of intraprocedural discomfort in colonoscopy: a review and practical tips.

Colonoscopy is a commonly performed procedure in the United Kingdom and the gold standard for diagnosis and therapy in the gastrointestinal tract. Increased levels of pain during colonoscopy have been associated with reduced completion rates and difficulties in maintaining attendance for repeat procedures. Multiple factors play a role in causing discomfort intra-procedurally: patient factors, such as gender, anatomy and pre-procedure anxiety; operator factors, such as patient position and level of experience and other factors, such as bowel preparation and total procedure time. A literature search was performed to identify papers that explained how patient, operator and endoscopy factors influenced pain and discomfort in endoscopy. A further search then also identified papers describing solutions to pain and discomfort that have been explored. After review of the literature, key methods are selected and discussed in this paper. Solutions and aids that can resolve and improve pain and discomfort include endoscopic methods such as variable stiffness and ultrathin scopes. Operator improvements in techniques and ergonomics alongside the use of newer technologies such as propelled endoscopy, computer-assisted endoscopy and task distraction. To improve patient experience and outcomes, the investigation and research into improving techniques to reduce pain is crucial. This review aims to identify the modifiable and non-modifiable factors associated with intra-procedural discomfort during colonoscopy. We discuss established methods of improving pain during colonoscopy, in addition to newer technologies to mitigate associated discomfort.

Dermatoglyphics of Women With Systemic Arterial Hypertension

Systemic arterial hypertension is a clinical condition of great risk in the development of cardiovascular diseases and it has a high impact on public health. The disease is influenced by modifiable and non-modifiable factors. In that context, Dermatoglyphics is a method of analysis of fingerprints as a mark of biological individuality and that can be related to health, sports, and the prognosis of diseases due to being able to point out the individual with the potential to develop certain diseases. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of the fingerprints of women with systemic arterial hypertension by comparing them with a control group, which does not present the disease. Thus, we intend to find a dermatoglyphic pattern for Brazilian women with systemic arterial hypertension. The sample in the study consisted of 732 women, 366 with a positive clinical diagnosis for systemic arterial hypertension, and 366 individuals forming a control group, which did not present systemic arterial hypertension. All individuals in the sample are of equivalent age and the fingerprints were collected from all fingers. The method used to determine the profile of the individuals is the computerized dermatoglyphic. It was used, for the collection of fingerprints, of the Dermatoglyphic Reader®, which presents results of 400% more precision. There was a statistically significant difference between the groups, and when the Adjusted Residue Analysis was performed, the Ulnar Loop figure on fingers 4 and 5 of the left hand, and fingers 1 and 5 of the right hand, was predominant in the group of women with hypertension. These results demonstrate the existence of a dermatoglyphic mark, characteristic of patients with systemic arterial hypertension. Therefore, it can be concluded that the analysis of fingerprints of the hands by the Dermatoglyphic method can demonstrate the potential that women could have developing systemic arterial hypertension.

The Potential of a Stratified Approach to Drug Repurposing in Alzheimer's Disease.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative condition that is characterized by the build-up of amyloid-beta plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. While multiple theories explaining the aetiology of the disease have been suggested, the underlying cause of the disease is still unknown. Despite this, several modifiable and non-modifiable factors that increase the risk of developing AD have been identified. To date, only eight AD drugs have ever gained regulatory approval, including six symptomatic and two disease-modifying drugs. However, not all are available in all countries and high costs associated with new disease-modifying biologics prevent large proportions of the patient population from accessing them. With the current patient population expected to triple by 2050, it is imperative that new, effective, and affordable drugs become available to patients. Traditional drug development strategies have a 99% failure rate in AD, which is far higher than in other disease areas. Even when a drug does reach the market, additional barriers such as high cost and lack of accessibility prevent patients from benefiting from them. In this review, we discuss how a stratified medicine drug repurposing approach may address some of the limitations and barriers that traditional strategies face in relation to drug development in AD. We believe that novel, stratified drug repurposing studies may expedite the discovery of alternative, effective, and more affordable treatment options for a rapidly expanding patient population in comparison with traditional drug development methods.

Arterial hypertension: a global public health challenge and the need for comprehensive strategies

High blood pressure affects more than 1 billion people and is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality. This chronic condition, often asymptomatic in its early stages, can lead to serious cardiovascular diseases if not managed properly. Its risk factors include modifiable elements such as obesity and a sedentary lifestyle, as well as non-modifiable factors such as genetics and age. Effective management of hypertension requires timely diagnosis, medical treatment, and significant lifestyle changes. The present study aims to develop educational strategies to reduce complications. Through a qualitative-quantitative approach with the development of a survey, it was learned that the majority of patients do not have knowledge about their disease, are sedentary and do not follow an adequate diet, nor do they engage in physical activity. It is concluded to propose education strategies that promote healthy environments on hypertension to mitigate its global impact and thus improve quality of life and reduce the economic burden on health systems

Determinants of Higher Body Shape Concern Among Medical Students in Universiti Putra Malaysia

Introduction: Body shape concern can lead to eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia. Our study aims to determine the determinant sociodemographic characteristics and mass media influences factors of body shape concern among medical undergraduate students of Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). Methods: This was a cross-sectional study design done among the first year to final year of undergraduate medical UPM students in 2019. A questionnaire consisting of sociodemographic data, mass media influences and body shape concern was used. Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ), a validated questionnaire with good concurrent validity to other tools assessing body shape concerns, was used to assess body shape concern among the medical students in this study. Analysis was done using Chi-square, Fisher exact test and multivariate logistic regression. Results: A total of 316 respondents out of 502 (62.9%) participated in this study. 57.5% students showed varying degrees of concern about their body shape ranging from mild to marked concern. Greater odds of body shape concerns were noted with Malay ethnicity, preclinical years, hours using social media per day and number of Instagram® following. Conclusion: Significant determinant factors of higher body shape concerns among UPM undergraduate students were Malay ethnicity, preclinical year students, longer hours of using social media and having higher numbers of following on Instagram®. It is important to determine the non-modifiable and modifiable factors of higher body shape concerns to recognise high risk individuals of developing body shape concerns.