Prevention Of Non-communicable Diseases Research Articles

Monotonic Trend of Oral Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic Period in Caraga Region, Philippines

Oral diseases are among the prevalent non-communicable diseases worldwide, affecting billions of people. This research study analyzed oral health data from 2017 to 2021 to address the lack of published studies on dental cases in the Caraga Region. It focused on various aspects of oral health, including dental services, dental caries, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Data was collected by formally requesting information for various dental records collated from the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga database and collaborating with the Acebu Dental Clinic for images on dental diseases. In total, 547,405 individual dental cases from the Caraga region were collected from 2017-2021. The findings showed that noninvasive procedures often included oral hygiene counseling, while tooth extraction had the highest recorded data among invasive procedures. Data analysis by age group revealed that children aged nine and below had a higher susceptibility to dental caries, while those between 10 and 24 years old had higher instances of gingivitis. Individuals aged 25 and above were more prone to periodontal disease. The females exhibited a higher prevalence of dental caries, gingivitis, and periodontitis compared to males. Pregnant women also had a high incidence of untreated dental caries. This study reported a decline in the number of orally fit children, determined through oral examinations and complete rehabilitation, from 2017 to 2021. Trend analysis using the Mann-Kendall Test and Sen’s Slope revealed a monotonic decrease with negative values. The disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, such as lockdowns, limited access to dental care, and decreased awareness of oral hygiene, likely contributed to the decline in reported cases during this period.

Millets in India: Current Scenario and the Way Forward

Millets are small-seeded plants with a short growing season, low water requirements and high disease resistance. Millet cultivation can potentially improve food security of marginal farmers in areas affected by drought due to climate change. But they are not the preferred crops in other areas because of low yield, short shelf life, low demand and non-remunerative selling price. There had been a progressive reduction in millet consumption over decades partly due to ready availability of subsidized rice and wheat through Public Distribution System (PDS) and partly because of the drudgery in processing of millets and difficulty in making tasty millet preparations. Industrial level processing methods to improve organoleptic properties often result in reduction in fiber content. Carbohydrate protein and fat content of millets are similar to cereals; they are gluten-free. Millets have higher vitamins, calcium, iron, phyto-nutrients and anti-oxidant content as compared to rice and wheat. Bio-availability of calcium and iron in millet-based diets is low because of the high fibre and phytate content. Millet-based meals with high fibre contents lows intestinal transit and provides satiety. Millets contain resistant starch which gets digested and absorbed slowly. The high phytonutrient and anti-oxidant content of millets has been shown to have a protective role in the prevention of non-communicable diseases in animals and may help in reducing CVD risk in human beings. Reintroducing millets into habitual Indian diets may help in the dietary management of over-nutrition, blood sugar in diabetic persons, halt the rise in lipid levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Perceptions on hypertension, barriers and facilitators on non-communicable disease prevention in urban Shivamogga: a qualitative study

Background: The world’s health care needs are changing drastically due to significant population and demographic impact. The socioeconomic transition in India have influenced the health risk behaviour leading to the increasing burden of obesity, hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidemia. Primary care facilities play a vital role in preventing and controlling NCDs. Objectives were to assess the perceptions of healthy lifestyle behaviours among urban migrants of south India. To qualitatively assess the facilitators and barriers of NCD prevention. Methods: Study was conducted in urban Shivamogga from May to August 2023 using non-purposive sampling technique. It was a qualitative study design-focus group discussion (FGD). It involves two FGD of 8 members each. One FGD is from urban school and other FGD is from nationalized bank. This study aimed at providing grounded approach to develop an understanding about the perceptions of hypertension (HTN) and facilitators/barriers in obtaining treatment of the same. The data was subjected to brief reading and analysed by segregating the text under different themes. Responses were recorded by audio-taping and translated into codes. The results were obtained after drawing inferences. Results: Mean age of study participants was 38.8±3.8 years (FGD1) and 36.8±2.6 years (FGD2). They identified stress, nuclear family, physical inactivity, dietary habits and urban living as the causes of hypertension. They perceived that illiteracy, ignorance, work-pressure, time-constraints, home-remedies could be the barriers for seeking treatment of hypertension. Conclusions: Hypertension has been perceived as a common and serious problem in our community. There was a felt need about awareness campaign and screening of HTN that may help in implementation of prevention and control activities.

Strengthening Health Literacy for Prevention and Management of Risk Factors for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Gedangsari, Gunung Kidul

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are diseases that are often not widely detected and recognized because generally, NCDs do not cause symptoms or complaints. This has an impact on the examination of patients where NCDS are detected to have reached the final stage. The lack of citizen’s literacy regarding non-communicable diseases due to the lack of exposure to information is crucial to follow up because it has an impact on the lack of attitudes and behavior in the prevention and management of NCDs in the Gedangsari area. Access to health services is considered to be lacking because the distance to health services is quite far, plus the geographical conditions of the area and quite steep road conditions. Economic factors and the level of education of residents are also obstacles to the access of information and health services. NCDs prevention efforts are urgently needed so that the level of public health in the Gedangsari area increases. Prevention is meant through Information Communication and Education activities about NCDs to the public. This community service aims to increase public knowledge about NCDs and how to prevent and treat them. This activity was carried out by early detection of NCDs risk factors, health checks, presentation of material about NCDs general knowledge, and NCDs modality therapy. The activities carried out were evaluated through a pre-test and post-test with a questionnaire. The results of the activity showed that there was an increase in residents' knowledge regarding NCDs by 51,2% after the activity, the implementation of NCDs screening, and NCDs modality therapy. In conclusion, this community service activity can increase citizen literacy towards NCDs. It is hoped that the community will apply the preventive and therapeutic modalities that have been taught to prevent and control NCDs

The Burden of Obesity and Hypertension Among a Vegetarian Ethnic Minority Community: A Study Among Jain's of Madhya Pradesh, India

Introduction: The prevalence of obesity is increasing among children and adults worldwide. Obesity is one of the major risk factors for hypertension. Thus, the study aimed to document the prevalence of obesity, hypertension and their association with each other among the Jain community of Khurai town, Sagar District (Madhya Pradesh), India. Methods: Data was collected on 175 participants belonging to the age group of 20-59 years. Anthropometric measurements were taken and indices were calculated such as Body mass index, waist-hip ratio, and waist-height ratio to assess general and abdominal obesity. Blood pressure was recorded using a sphygmomanometer. Results: The prevalence of overweight and obesity was found 25.71 percent and 9.71 percent. Whereas, 54.28 percent and 48.14 percent of participants were at risk for central obesity. The prevalence of hypertension was 41.14 percent. Obesity and hypertension were more prevalent among males, females were more overweight. Hypertension had a significant (p-value <0.01) positive correlation with anthropometric indices. Body Mass Index imposed highest significant increase risk (p-value <0.05) on hypertension. Conclusion: Jain adults had a high prevalence of overweight/obesity and hypertension despite of being vegetarian community. Therefore, more attention should be directed towards this community for the prevention, management, and treatment of non-communicable diseases.

Direct Oral Anticoagulants’ Consumption and Expenditure in the COVID-19 Pandemic in Russia and Clinical Practice Guidelines for Their Use

Background: The coronavirus pandemic has led to the creation of clinical guidelines by a large number of professional medical communities. However, the quality and methodology of development of Russian clinical guidelines has been little studied. The continued relevance of studying the use of DOACs (Direct oral anticoagulants) in patients with COVID-19 was the basis for conducting this study. Aim: The objective of this study was to assess DOAC consumption and expenditure in the Russian Federation during the COVID-19 pandemic and to analyze whether it was supported by the domestic evidence base for the use of DOACs in COVID-19 patients through identifying all publicly available Russian-produced CPGs (Clinical practice guidelines) for the treatment of COVID-19 and assessing their quality as the source of recommendations for the use of oral anticoagulants for the prevention of thrombotic complications in COVID-19 patients. We searched Russian databases for CPGs, published between 2020 and 2023. We identified seven relevant documents that met our inclusion criteria. Three authors analyzed Russian clinical guidelines using an AGREE II questionnaire. We calculated DOAC DDD (defined daily dose) consumption according to Russian clinical guidelines and DDD consumption in patients with COVID-19 for the period 2020–2022. Results: Seven clinical CPGs were analyzed with the AGREE II tool. It was revealed that experts gave the highest scores for the sections on scope and purpose (from 62.98% to 100%), and clarity of presentation (from 96.30% to 100%). The lowest scores were given for the sections on stakeholder involvement (33.33% to 64.81%), rigour of development (from 0% to 49.31%), applicability (from 23.61% to 50%), and editorial independence (from 0% to 50%). When comparing the total score, it was found that two clinical guidelines received the highest scores—ROPNIZ (Livzan), and ROPNIZ (Drapkina). The minimum score was registered with the NIIOZMM (Khripun) clinical guideline. No guideline received a total score of more than 70%. According to clinical recommendations, the consumption of apixaban and rivaroxaban is 15 DDD (30-day course of therapy), or 22.5 DDD (45-day course of therapy). Consumption of apixaban in the Russian Federation in 2020 and 2021 corresponds to the indicators presented in clinical recommendations (in 2020—26.59 DDD per patient with COVID-19; in 2021—15.75 DDD per patient with COVID-19), and in 2022—10.67 DDD, which is below the recommended values. In 2020, consumption of rivaroxaban in the Russian Federation was 26.59 which corresponds to data from clinical recommendations; in 2021, consumption decreased to 7.87 DDD; in 2022 it decreased to 5.48 DDD, which is 2.74 times less than recommended. Conclusions: Analysis of seven clinical recommendations revealed that such sections of clinical recommendations as scope, purpose, and clarity of presentation had the highest degree of assessment in accordance with AGREE II. The lowest scores were given for the sections on stakeholder involvement, rigour of development, applicability, and editorial independence. When comparing the total score, it was found that two clinical guidelines received the highest scores—the Russian Society for the Prevention of Non-communicable Diseases (Livzan), and the Russian Society for the Prevention of Non-communicable Diseases (Drapkina). The minimum score was registered with the Research Institute for Healthcare Organization and Medical Management of Moscow Healthcare Department clinical guideline. No guideline received a total score of more than 70%. During the pandemic, the highest DDD consumption of DOACs was in 2020, which exceeded the DOACs’ recommended DDD by Russian clinical guidelines. DOAC consumption had decreased by 2022. There was a decrease in the consumption of rivaroxaban, with an increase in apixaban’s share in the structure of DOAC consumption during the coronavirus pandemic. Obtained data indicate that in 2021 the apixaban consumption in the Russian Federation corresponded to the recommended DDD in the national guidelines, which indicates the most correct use of apixaban according to Russian GPGs.

Excess mortality in adults from Sao Paulo during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020: analyses of all-cause and noncommunicable diseases mortality

In this study, we estimated the excess mortality from all-causes of death and noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in adults living in the state of São Paulo during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Number of deaths were retrieved from the Mortality Information System before (2017–2019) and during (2020) the COVID-19 pandemic, considering the following underlying causes of death: Neoplasms; Diabetes Mellitus; Circulatory System Diseases, and Respiratory System Diseases. Standardized Mortality Ratio (SMR) were calculated by dividing the mortality rates in 2020 by average mortality rates in 2017–2019, according to sex, age group, geographic location (state, capital, and Regional Health Departments). In 2020, occurred 341,704 deaths in the state of São Paulo vs 290,679 deaths in 2017–2019, representing an 18% increase in all-cause mortality (SMR 1.18) or 51,025 excess deaths during the first year of COVID-19 pandemic. The excess mortality was higher in men (186,741 deaths in 2020 vs 156,371 deaths in 2017–2019; SMR 1.18; 30,370 excess deaths) compared to women (154,963 deaths in 2020 vs 134,308 deaths in 2017–2019; SMR 1.15; 20,655 excess deaths). Regarding NCDs mortality, we observed a reduction in cancer mortality (SMR 0.98; −1,354 deaths), diseases of the circulatory system (SMR 0.95; −4,277 deaths), and respiratory system (SMR 0.88; −1,945). We found a 26% increase in Diabetes Mellitus mortality (SMR 1.26; 2885 deaths) during the pandemic year. Our findings corroborate the need to create and strengthen policies aimed at the prevention and control of NCDs, in order to mitigate the impact of future infectious disease pandemics.

Inequalities in non-communicable disease management in China and progress toward universal health coverage: an analysis of nationwide household survey data from 2004 to 2018

Prevention and control of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) become a policy priority in Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in China, while NCD management has never been comprehensively estimated at national and subnational levels. We aimed to assess NCD management in China nationally and in key subpopulations, investigate inequalities from multidimensions, and further examine its association with health financing and resources. Data included were from China Chronic Disease and Risk Factors Surveillance (CCDRFS) and China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS). Following the WHO recommended frameworks, we selected eight NCD health service and risk management indicators and used meta-analysis to construct the composite NCD index. We explored the trends in and projections of NCD management index and indicators at national and subnational levels by using Bayesian regression models with average annual percentage change (AAPC) from 2004 to 2018 and probability of reaching the UHC target by 2030. We further conducted comprehensive inequality analyses of NCD indicators from multidimensions with patterns of changes over time using absolute difference and relative ratio. Finally, we quantified the associations between NCD management performance with health financing and resources using stochastic frontier analysis. In China, the NCD management index increased slowly from 62.0% (95% CI 36.0 to 84.0) in 2004 to 64.3% (95% CI 44.0 to 82.2) in 2018, with lagging performance being observed in prevention domain (AAPC-0.1%, 95% CrI-1.0 to 0.8). And all management indicators presented low probabilities of accomplishing 2030 targets in China. Notably, based on subnational analysis, diverse tendency and magnitude of inequalities in multiple NCD indicators were identified with widening gaps between genders (non-overweight, diabetes treatment), age groups (non-use of tobacco), urban-rural areas (non-use of alcohol, non-use of tobacco), regions (sufficient physical activity), and wealth quintiles (non-overweight, sufficient physical activity). Additionally, it was observed that compared with urban area, rural area had constantly lower health resources and presented 2.2% lower NCD management performance in 2018. Importantly, we found that health financing and resources especially distributed in primary health care (PHC) facilities were closely and positively associated with NCD management performance. A 1000 yuan increase of government health expenditure (GHE) per capita and a 10 increase of medical beds per 1000 capita in PHC facilities were associated with a 4.0% (95% CI 2.0 to 6.0) and 6.8% (95% CI 0.2 to 13.5) increase of NCD management index, respectively. The progress towards NCD management is slow at national level and in key subpopulations in China, with great challenges of existing and widening inequalities between genders, age groups, urban-rural areas, regions and socioeconomic groups. Rural and old people were still vulnerable populations who were lagging behind in NCD prevention and control. Optimising resource allocation by strengthening PHC especially in rural area, developing tailor-made programmes targeting specific populations such as old individuals, simultaneously integrating gender, education, and economic interventions to reduce inequalities should be prioritised to help China tackle NCDs during the progress towards UHC. National Natural Science Foundation of China.

Occupational risk of developing chronic non-communicable diseases in bearing production workers

Introduction. Prevention of chronic non-communicable diseases, maintaining health and prolonging the occupational longevity of the working population is the most important strategic direction of the state policy of the Russian Federation in the field of public health
 The purpose. Stratification of the occupational risk of developing chronic non-communicable diseases among workers in the production of bearings for the subsequent development of specialized targeted programs for the prevention of health disorders.
 Material and methods. An assessment of the occupational risk of developing chronic non-communicable diseases among workers in the production of bearings is given on the basis of complex studies of production factors, primary and general chronic morbidity using the methodology for assessing occupational health risk.
 Results. It has been established that the development of chronic non-infectious diseases in bearing production workers is determined by a complex of harmful (classes 3.2–3.4) factors of the working environment of various nature, which form an occupational health risk in categories from medium to very high. In the structure of the general chronic non-infectious morbidity of workers, diseases of the eye and its adnexa (24.4%), diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue (20.7%), diseases of the circulatory system (19.32%) and diseases of the endocrine system had the highest prevalence in systems of eating disorders and metabolic disorders — 15.1%. A causal relationship of varying severity with the work of the most common nosological forms of chronic was revealed as arterial hypertension (RR = 1.425; EF = 29.837%; C = 1.044–1.945), obesity (RR = 1.731; EF = 42.24%; CI = 1.219–2.459), presbyopia (RR = 2.443; EF = 59.071%; CI = 1.549–3.855), indicating their occupational conditioning.
 Limitations. The limitation of the study was the assessment of the occupational risk of developing chronic non-communicable diseases in one occupational cohort of workers. 
 Conclusion. The development of specialized programs for the prevention of chronic non-communicable diseases among workers should include the study of causal aspects of health disorders and the rationale for measures to minimize the impact of occupational risk factors for occupationally determined pathology.

Pengaruh Aktifitas Fisik terhadap Kejadian Penyakit Tidak Menular pada Lansia

The morbidity rate for the elderly is the proportion of the elderly population who experience health problems that interfere with their daily activities during the past month. According to the 2014 Susenas, the morbidity rate for the elderly population was 25.05%, meaning that out of every 100 elderly people, 25 of them were sick. In Tegal City, the prevalence of non-communicable diseases has a tendency to increase from year to year, this is due to the epidemiological transition, demographic transition and lifestyle transition. This study aims to determine the relationship between physical activity and the incidence of non-communicable diseases in the elderly in Tegal City. This type of analytic observational research uses a cross-sectional design, with a quantitative approach. The population in this study were elderly aged over ≥ 46 years who were in the Tegal City Region. The analytical test used is the chis square test which aims to determine the relationship between physical activity and the occurrence of non-communicable diseases. Data collection was carried out through interviews and filling out questionnaires on the elderly with a sample of 50 people. The results showed that there was a relationship between physical activity and the incidence of non-communicable diseases. The incidence of non-communicable diseases in the elderly can be caused by the high prevalence of risk factors such as lack of physical activity. It is hoped that health workers

Quality Development of Soft Drinks Based on the Qualimetric Model Engineering

A number of doctrinal documents of the Russian Federation define the need for the non-communicable chronic disease prevention, and as a consequence, the health promotion by including specialized foods in the diet. From the list of homogeneous product groups, beverages are the most convenient for the functional property development, have simple production technology and are in demand with different population groups. All of those things determine the prospects for further development of the alcohol-free beverages. To forecast the quality and consumer characteristics of the projected alcohol-free beverages, a man developed a process for qualimetric model engineering of the expected assortment properties of drinks based on aspen leaves containing substances with pronounced antioxidant properties based on the example of the Yugorsky drink. The relevance of such research consists in the complex development including the maximum quality properties set of the projected product, in the formation of which engineers, consumers and experts participate. The development process of a qualimetric model for the quality engineering of beverages consists of five stages: identification of significant indicators inherent in this product group; "properties tree" developmen alcohol-free beverages; selection or development of scales for the beverage consumer properties assessment, weighting coefficient determination; complex (integral) indicator determination of the beverage quality. The authors emphasize the stages study depth importance of the new product development process and the degree of its detailing, depending on the knowledge and vision of all participants in the process.

The Six Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine in Managing Noncommunicable Diseases - The Gaps in Current Guidelines.

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), also known as chronic diseases that are long-lasting, are considered the major cause of death and disability worldwide, and the six pillars of lifestyle medicine (nutrition, exercise, toxic control, stress management, restorative sleep, and social connection) play an important role in a holistic management of their prevention and treatment. In addition, medical guidelines are the most accepted documents with recommendations to manage NCDs. The present study aims to analyze the lack of lifestyle pillars concerning the major Brazilian medical guidelines for NCDs and identify evidence in the literature that could justify their inclusion in the documents. Brazilian guidelines were selected according to the most relevant causes of death in Brazil, given by the Mortality Information System, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health in 2019. Journals were screened in the PUBMED library according to the disease and non-mentioned pillars of lifestyle. Relevant causes of deaths in Brazil are acute myocardial infarction (AMI), diabetes mellitus (DM), and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD). Six guidelines related to these NCDs were identified, and all address aspects of lifestyle, but only one, regarding cardiovascular prevention, highlights all six pillars. Despite this, a literature search involving over 50 articles showed that there is evidence that all the pillars can help control each of these NCDs. Rarely are the six pillars of lifestyle contemplated in Brazilian guidelines for AMI, DM, and COPD. The literature review identified evidence of all lifestyle pillars to offer a holistic approach for the management and prevention of NCDs.

Developing and sustaining high-quality care for children with cancer: the WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer.

Cancer is a major public health concern, impacting nearly 20 million people each year, and it is responsible for 1 in 6 deaths worldwide. The burden of cancer is increasing rapidly, straining health systems that are unable to prevent and manage the disease. Childhood cancer constitutes a significant and relevant public health challenge; it was the ninth leading cause of childhood disease globally, according to findings by the Global Burden of Disease 2017 study. Almost 80% of all children diagnosed with cancer live in low- and middle-income countries where treatment is often unavailable or unaffordable. As a result, only about 15-45% of these children survive compared with more than 80% in high-income countries. This represents a great health inequity. Delivering on the mandate provided by World Health Assembly resolution 70.12, WHO together with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and other global partners launched the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer at the United Nations General Assembly during the third High-level Meeting on the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases in September 2018. The Initiative aims to increase global survival for children with cancer to at least 60% by 2030, while reducing suffering for all children with cancer. Five years after launching the Initiative, more than 70 countries across the World Health Organization's 6 regions have advanced to different phases of action through implementation of the Initiative's CureAll framework for action. Many successful approaches to implementing the CureAll pillars and enablers have demonstrated that improving care for children with cancer in low- and middle-income countries is possible as long as there is strong political will, multisectoral commitments and strategic investment.

Political Economy of Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) prevention and control in Lebanon: identifying challenges and opportunities for policy change and care provision reforms

IntroductionLebanon is a middle-income country facing substantial fragility features. Its health profile shows a high burden of NCD morbidity and mortality. This paper intends to analyse the political economy of NCD prevention and control in Lebanon.MethodsThis study adopted a literature-based case study research design using a problem-driven political economy analysis framework. A total of 94 peer-reviewed articles and documents from the grey literature published before June 2019 were retrieved and analysed.ResultsLebanon’s political instability and fragile governance negatively affect its capacity to adapt a Health-in-All-Policies approach to NCD prevention and enable the blocking of NCD prevention policies by opposed stakeholders. Recent economic crises limit the fiscal capacity to address health financing issues and resulting health inequities. NCD care provision is twisted by powerful stakeholders towards a hospital-centred model with a powerful private sector. Stakeholders like the MOPH, UN agencies, and NGOs have been pushing towards changing the existing care model towards a primary care model. An incremental reform has been adopted to strengthen a network of primary care centres, support them with health technologies and improve the quality of primary care services. Nevertheless, outpatient services that are covered by other public funds remain specialist-led without much institutional regulation.ConclusionOur study revealed a locked equilibrium in NCD prevention policymaking in Lebanon, but with an incremental progress in service delivery reforms towards a primary care model. Advocacy and close monitoring by policy entrepreneurs (such as civil society) could initiate and sustain the implementation of policy change and care model reforms.

An Examination of Physical Activity, Non-Communicable Diseases, and Health Screening among People Living with HIV in Zamfara State, Nigeria

Aim: This study provides a comprehensive analysis of physical activity levels, non-communicable disease prevalence, and health screening practices of people living with HIV in Zamfara State, Nigeria.
 Methodology: This study is a cross-sectional study involving a total of 424 individuals living with HIV (PLWH) in Zamfara State, Nigeria.
 Results: The socio-demographic analysis reveals that the study participants were predominantly within the age group of 30-39 (38.7%) and were mainly female (70.3%). In terms of ethnicity, Hausa was the most common (75.7%), followed by Yoruba (9.7%) and Igbo (4.7%). The participants were largely married (57.8%) and had no formal schooling (45.8%). Physical activity levels were evaluated based on the time spent on different domains of activity in a typical week. The mean time spent on vigorous intensity activity was 28.6 minutes per week, while moderate-intensity activity and walking/cycling were higher at 69.9 minutes and 205.1 minutes per day, respectively. However, 47.2% of participants overall did not meet WHO recommendations on physical activity for health, with females demonstrating a higher rate of non-compliance (50.7%) compared to males (38.9%). A notable aspect of the study is the examination of the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among the participants. Overall, the highest prevalence was seen for raised blood pressure (10.4%), followed by cardiovascular diseases (7.3%) and raised blood sugar (4.0%), while raised cholesterol levels were minimal (0.2%). Females presented a higher prevalence of raised blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases. The study also scrutinized health screening practices, revealing that the screening for cervical cancer among female respondents was worryingly low at 2.3%. The mean weight and height for both sexes were 63.8 Kg and 1.6 meters, respectively. The mean Body Mass Index (BMI) was found to be 23.5 for males and 25.5 for females. Concerningly, 37.5% of the population had a BMI greater than 25, indicating overweight or obesity, with a higher prevalence among females (31.8%) than males (7.6%).
 Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into physical activity trends, non-communicable disease prevalence, and health screening practices among PLWH in Zamfara State, Nigeria. The findings underline the importance of tailored interventions to promote physical activity, manage non-communicable diseases, and encourage routine health screenings in this demographic.

Comparative analysis of silver-nanoparticles and whey-encapsulated particles from olive leaf water extracts: Characteristics and biological activity.

Nanotechnology applications have been employed to improve the stability of bioactive components and drug delivery. Natural-based extracts, especially olive leaf extracts, have been associated with the green economy not only as recycled agri-waste but also in the prevention and treatment of various non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The aim of this work was to provide a comparison between the characteristics, biological activity, and gene expression of water extract of olive leaves (OLE), green synthesized OLE silver nanoparticles (OL/Ag-NPs), and OLE whey protein capsules (OL/WPNs) of the two olive varieties, Tofahy and Shemlali. The particles were characterized by dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscope (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared. The bioactive compounds of the preparations were evaluated for their antioxidant activity and anticancer effect on HCT-116 colorectal cells as well as for their regulatory effects on cytochrome C oxidase (Cox1) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) genes. (OL/Ag-NPs) were found to be smaller than (OL/WPNs) with sizes of (37.46±1.85 and 44.86±1.62 nm) and (227.20±2.43 and 553.02±3.60 nm) for Tofahy and Shemlali, respectively. SEM showed that Shemlali (OL/Ag-NPs) had the least aggregation due to their highest Ƹ-potential (-31.76 ± 0.87 mV). The preparations were relatively nontoxic to Vero cells (IC50 = 151.94-789.25 μg/mL), while they were cytotoxic to HCT-116 colorectal cells (IC50 = 77.54-320.64 μg/mL). Shemlali and Tofahy OLE and Tofahy OL/Ag-NPs had a higher selectivity index (2.97-7.08 μg/mL) than doxorubicin (2.36 μg/mL), indicating promising anticancer activity. Moreover, Shemlali preparations regulated the expression of Cox1 (up-regulation) and TNF-α (down-regulation) on HCT-116 cells, revealing their efficiency in suppressing the expression of genes that promote cancer cell proliferation. (OL/Ag-NPs) from Tofahy and Shemlali were found to be more stable, effective, and safe than (OL/WPNs). Consequently, OL/Ag-NPs, especially Tofahy, are the best and safest nanoscale particles that can be safely used in food and pharmaceutical applications.

Resveratrol and Gut Microbiota Synergy: Preventive and Therapeutic Effects.

The role of an imbalanced high-fat diet in the pathophysiology of common chronic noncommunicable diseases has been known for years. More recently, the concept of 'gut microbiota' and the interaction between their composition and gut metabolites produced from the intake of dietary products have gained the focus of researchers, mostly from the perspective of the prevention of cardiovascular and metabolic disorders, which are still the leading cause of death globally. The aim of this work is to highlight the health benefits of the interaction between resveratrol (RSV), red grape polyphenol, and gut microbiota, through aspects of their therapeutic and preventive potentials. Since changed microbiota (mostly as a consequence of antibiotic overuse) contribute to the persistence of post ('long')-COVID-19 symptoms, these aspects will be covered too. Data were obtained from the electronic databases (MedLine/PubMed), according to specific keywords regarding the protective role of resveratrol, the gut microbiota, and their synergy. RSV exerts beneficial properties in the modulation of cardiovascular, metabolic, and post-COVID-19-related disorders. In healthy individuals, it maintains an ergogenic capacity, prevents oxidative stress, and modulates the inflammatory response. Overall, it improves quality of life. The RSV-gut-microbiota interaction is beneficial in terms of maintaining human health. Along with physical activity, it is key for the prevention of chronic noncommunicable diseases.

Non-communicable Diseases Week: Best Practices in Addressing the NCDs Burden from Tanzania.

Five million people die every year from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) globally. In Tanzania, more than two-thirds of deaths are NCD-related. The country is investing in preventive and advocacy activities as well as interventions to reduce the burden. Of particular interest, the Ministry of Health (MoH) commemorates NCDs' week using a multisectoral and multi-stakeholders' approach. This paper highlights activities conducted during NCDs week with the aim of sharing lessons for other countries with similar context and burdens. A thorough review of official reports and the national strategic plans for NCDs was done including the 2020 and 2021 National NCDs' week reports, the National Strategic Plan for NCDs 2015-2020, and the National NCDs agenda. NCDs week is commemorated annually throughout the country involving the five key activities. First, community awareness and participation are encouraged through media engagement and community-based preventive and advocacy activities. Second, physical activities and sports festivals are implemented with a focus on developing and renovating infrastructures for sports and recreation. Third, health education is provided in schools to promote healthy behaviors for secondary school adolescents in transition to adulthood. Fourth, health service provision and exhibitions are conducted involving screening for hypertension, diabetes, obesity, alcohol use, and physical activities. The targeted screening of NCDs identified 10% of individuals with at least one NCD in 2020. In 2021, a third of all screened individuals were newly diagnosed with hypertension, and 3% were found to have raised blood glucose levels. Fifth, the national NCDs scientific conferences conducted within the NCDs week provide an avenue for stakeholders to discuss scientific evidence related to NCDs and recommend strategies to mitigate NCDs burden. The initiation of NCDs week has been a cornerstone in advocating for NCDs control and prevention in the country. It has created awareness on NCDs, encourage healthy lifestyles and regular screening for NCDs. The multi-stakeholder and multi-sectoral approaches have made the implementation of the mentioned activities feasible and impactful. This has set an example for the united efforts toward NCD control and prevention at national, regional, and global platforms while considering contextual factors during adoption and implementation.

Mapping evidence on barriers to and facilitators of diagnosing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in Africa: A scoping review protocol

Background Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) represent a global public health challenge in all population groups, but the prevalence of major NCDs, such as depression, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, obesity and diabetes, is increasing at a rapid rate among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH). Studies show that integrated NCDs and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) services have improved the patient outcome of PLWH with comorbidities with NCDs. It requires a strengthened and sustainable way of diagnosing major NCDs early among PLWH. However, there is limited evidence regarding the barriers to and facilitators of early diagnosis of NCDs (depression, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, obesity and diabetes) among PLWH in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This review will systematically map the literature and describe the barriers and facilitators of diagnosing NCDs (depression, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, obesity and diabetes) among PLWH in LMICs in Africa. Methods The methodology presented by Arksey and O’Malley and the recommendation set out by Levac and colleagues will be used. PubMed, MEDLINE with full text via the EBSCO host, Google Scholar, Science Direct and Scopus will be used for a comprehensive search for data extraction. The search will be conducted using keywords, Boolean terms, and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH). All studies with eligible titles will be exported to the EndNote citation manager for deduplication and imported to Rayyan software for screening. Two reviewers will independently screen abstracts, and the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis extension to scoping review (PRISMA-Sc) guidelines will be used to guide the search in conducting the scoping review. We will perform descriptive data analysis for quantitative studies, NVivo software version 12 will be used for qualitative studies, and thematic content analysis will be carried out. This scoping review will include studies that included PLWH with those diagnosed with major NCDs (depression, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, obesity, and diabetes) in LMICs in Africa. Discussion This scoping review will highlight evidence mapping on barriers and facilitators of diagnosing NCDs (depression, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, obesity, and diabetes) among PLWH LMICs in Africa. Scoping Review Registration: registered on Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/xvtwd/).

Maintaining health in daily life—is active travel the solution?

Physical inactivity is a global public health challenge. At the same time, the societal transformation toward a sustainable and active lifestyle can be observed. Active travel (AT) is one physical activity (PA) domain and combines healthy and sustainable daily behavior. However, it is still unclear whether assumed associations between AT and health are resilient for objective and subjective health outcomes. Since published research on AT has been growing during the last decade, this scoping review aimed to update and summarize the existing evidence. Therefore, a scoping review was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library, following PRISMA guidelines. In all, 35 papers including 4,857,918 individuals (age range: 18–93 years old) were included. AT is strongly associated with health dimensions with a great body of knowledge showing strong associations between AT and reduced risks for noncommunicable diseases (NCD), especially in comparison to non-AT. Thus, AT can play an important role to prevent the increasing prevalence of NCD. There is a limited amount of research available on health-promoting factors and subjective health. Extracted studies suggest positive connections with AT. Mostly, cycling as a form of AT seems to have a more significant positive association with health compared to walking. Longitudinal studies further support and reinforce these findings.