Regular Check-ups Research Articles

Machine-learning prediction of kidney failure occurrence based on regular health check-up data: a nationwide cohort dataset in South Korea

Machine-learning prediction of kidney failure occurrence based on regular health check-up data: a nationwide cohort dataset in South Korea

Uncovering the reasons behind irregular visits by patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is a non-communicable disease with an increasing incidence. DM is associated with deaths caused by several complications. One of the efforts to manage DM is to control blood glucose by maintaining regular check-ups and treatment compliance. Unfortunately, many people with DM still need to visit health facilities regularly.Purpose: This study aimed to explain the factors associated with the irregularity of type 2 DM patients having check-ups at the public health center (puskesmas).Methods: This cross-sectional study used the medical record data from Grabag II Public Health Center. The subjects were 135 outpatients with type 2 DM and complete medical records.Results: The results showed that visit irregularity was significantly associated with sex (OR = 3.8; 95% CI = 1.12-12.79), distance from home (OR = 0.2; 95% CI = 0.06-0.52), and duration of diagnosis (OR = 0.3; 95% CI= 0.12-0.85), but not with age, insurance, comorbidities, and types of therapy.Conclusion: Factors associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus patients' irregular visits to Puskesmas are sex, distance from home, and duration of diagnosis. Educational interventions at all levels of society should be carried out to increase knowledge about DM and the importance of regular check-ups and medication

Faktor-Faktor yang Berhubungan dengan Kunjungan Antenatal Care (K4) pada Ibu Hamil di Wilayah Kerja Puskesmas Tarus Kupang

The Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) is an important measure of a country's health sector progress. Governments aim to lower MMR through initiatives like safe motherhood programs, which include antenatal care (ANC) services. ANC consists of regular pregnancy check-ups to prevent maternal fatalities, with six visits being the minimum recommended number. Although Tarus Community Health Center has reached the K4 service goal, it has not yet met the necessary standards.Based on the data from the Tarus Community Health Center PWS report over the past three years, the National Health Sector SPM target of 100% has not been met. The average K4 coverage was 73.10% in 2020, 70.48% in 2021, and 74.9% in 2022. The underutilization of ANC services by pregnant women at Tarus Health Center is the primary factor contributing to this low performance.This research aims to identify factors related to ANC visits in pregnant women at Tarus Community Health Center in Kupang Regency. The study utilized a quantitative descriptive research method with an analytical survey and cross-sectional approach, analyzing data from 43 individuals using the chi-square test. The findings suggest a correlation between maternal knowledge (p=0.030), parity (p=0.014), culture (p=0.000), and accessibility (p=0.014) with ANC visits. However, the study did not find a significant relationship between mother's attitude (p=0.551) and ANC visits in the research area.The community health center should improve maternal and child health education through electronic and print media. Regular visits and counseling for pregnant women can motivate them to attend antenatal care appointments.

Knowledge and utilization of Integrated Child Development Services among antenatal women during COVID-19 pandemic.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected the healthcare delivery system in both developed and developing countries. Many antenatal women skipped their regular antenatal check-ups due to fear of viral contamination and lack of transport facilities. Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), which plays a major role in antenatal care, also suffered a great deal during the pandemic. 1. To assess knowledge and utilization of ICDS services by antenatal women during the COVID-19 pandemic. 2. To determine factors influencing the knowledge and utilization of ICDS services by antenatal women. 3. To determine the barriers to utilization of ICDS services during the pandemic. This study was conducted as a descriptive study in a tertiary care center. Antenatal women whose pregnancy period coincided with the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The sample size was calculated as 198. Data were entered in Microsoft Excel and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Around 61% of the study population had adequate knowledge about ICDS services. The proportion of antenatal women utilizing ICDS services reduced from 87.8% to 69.6% during the pandemic. Only a few of the mothers were followed up by the Anganwadi workers during the pandemic. The main barriers to not utilizing ICDS services were fear of the spread of the pathogen and lack of awareness about the availability of services during the pandemic. There has been a reduction in the utilization of ICDS services by antenatal women during the COVID-19 pandemic. Measures should be taken by the government to ensure undisrupted care for antenatal women during such hard times.

DETEKSI DINI KELUHAN YANG LAZIM MUNCUL PADA LANSIA DI UPT PESANGGRAHAN PMKS MOJOPAHIT KABUPATEN MOJOKERTO

The decision to live at Pesanggrahan PMKS Mojopahit can come from the family or the wishes of the elderly themselves. Many elderly people experience physical and psychological complaints, some of which cannot be conveyed. Sometimes this complaint will cause depression. At this time, early detection of these complaints is needed. The method used for physical health examination is blood pressure measurement, a simple laboratory form random blood sugar levels and uric acid levels, mental health using a questionnairegeriatric depression scale. The target is all 48 elderly people at Pesanggrahan PMKS Mojopahit. The results show that the blood pressure of the elderly has a tendency to increase starting from grade 1 to grade 2 hypertension and isolated systolic hypertension as much as 29%. Uric acid levels show that the majority have uric acid levels within normal limits (56%), but 36% have uric acid levels that are high. high, blood glucose levels tend to lead to pre-diabetes mellitus as much as 21% and as many as 12% of elderly people have diabetes mellitus status. The results of mental health detection using GDS show that the majority of elderly people experience moderate depression. It is hoped that the management of the PMKS Mojopahit guesthouse will pay attention to these findings with the following steps; regular check-ups to maintain the health of the elderly, physical activity, leisurely walking and cardio exercise for the elderly, treatment of depression problems through group activity therapy and psychoreligious therapy.

Self-Management among Stroke Survivors in the United States, 2016 to 2021.

Background: Self-management among stroke survivors is effective in mitigating the risk of a recurrent stroke. This study aims to determine the prevalence of self-management and its associated factors among stroke survivors in the United States. Methods: We analyzed the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data from 2016 to 2021, a nationally representative health survey. A new outcome variable, stroke self-management (SSM = low or SSM = high), was defined based on five AHA guideline-recommended self-management practices, including regular physical activity, maintaining body mass index, regular doctor checkups, smoking cessation, and limiting alcohol consumption. A low level of self-management was defined as adherence to three or fewer practices. Results: Among 95,645 American stroke survivors, 46.7% have low self-management. Stroke survivors aged less than 65 are less likely to self-manage (low SSM: 56.8% vs. 42.3%; p < 0.0001). Blacks are less likely to self-manage than non-Hispanic Whites (low SSM: 52.0% vs. 48.6%; p < 0.0001); however, when adjusted for demographic and clinical factors, the difference was dissipated. Higher education and income levels are associated with better self-management (OR: 2.49, [95%CI: 2.16-2.88] and OR: 1.45, [95%CI: 1.26-1.67], respectively). Further sub-analysis revealed that women are less likely to be physically active (OR: 0.88, [95%CI: 0.81-0.95]) but more likely to manage their alcohol consumption (OR: 1.57, [95%CI: 1.29-1.92]). Stroke survivors residing in the Stroke Belt did not self-manage as well as their counterparts (low-SSM: 53.1% vs. 48.0%; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The substantial diversity in self-management practices emphasizes the need for tailored interventions. Particularly, multi-modal interventions should be targeted toward specific populations, including younger stroke survivors with lower education and income.

Oral health in obese children common findings, prevention, treatment, and outcome

Childhood obesity is a significant global public health issue, closely linked to various oral health challenges, including dental caries, periodontal disease, and malocclusion. Obese children are more prone to these dental problems due to dietary habits that include high sugar and carbohydrate intake, poor oral hygiene practices, and systemic inflammation. This review explores the common oral health issues faced by obese children and emphasizes the importance of preventive strategies and tailored treatment approaches. Preventive measures include promoting healthy dietary habits, improving oral hygiene practices, and ensuring regular dental check-ups. Dietary modifications, such as reducing the intake of sugary snacks and beverages, play a crucial role in preventing tooth decay and other dental problems. Educating children and caregivers about proper brushing and flossing techniques and the use of fluoride toothpaste and dental sealants further supports oral health. Regular dental visits allow for early detection and management of dental issues, with professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, and appropriate restorative and periodontal therapies being integral components of care. The outcomes of these comprehensive treatment strategies are generally positive, leading to improved oral health and overall quality of life for obese children. Multidisciplinary collaboration among healthcare providers, including dentists, pediatricians, and nutritionists, is essential to develop effective care plans that address both obesity and oral health. This integrated approach ensures that obese children receive holistic care that promotes lifelong healthy habits, reducing the risk of future dental and systemic health problems. The review underscores the necessity of a concerted effort to address the intertwined issues of obesity and oral health in children, highlighting the potential for significant health improvements through targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

Oral health-related knowledge, attitude and practices among nurses: a hospital-based questionnaire survey from a tertiary healthcare setting in Faridabad, India

BackgroundNurses play an integral part in the comprehensive delivery of healthcare services and contribute significantly to the success of public health initiatives. The knowledge, attitude and practices of nurses in...

Sliding Microneedle - Lateral flow immunoassay strip device for highly sensitive biomarker detection in interstitial fluid

Diabetes is a chronic disease with significant complications, necessitating regular treatment and checkups, which can be costly and time-consuming for patients. To address this, we developed the Sliding Microneedle (MN)-Lateral flow immunoassay strip (LFIAs) device that combines the advantages of MNs and LFIAs to detect IL-6, an independent biomarker for diabetes complications. This device offers rapid and highly sensitive detection of IL-6 by extracting interstitial fluid (ISF) through MNs and transferring it to LFIAs. The stainless MN, embedded in the 3D-printed Sliding MN-LFIAs device, was inserted into the skin at a 20° angle, minimizing blood contamination risk. With a filter paper attached to the MN surface, the device collected 4.65 ± 0.05 μL of ISF containing IL-6 within 90 s. The ISF was then transferred to the LFIAs using a running buffer. After a 15-min reaction, silver enhancement (SE) treatment was applied, allowing for the highly sensitive and specific detection of IL-6 at 102 pg/mL concentrations. The Sliding MN-LFIAs device successfully distinguished between normal and diabetic rat models, demonstrating its potential as an effective tool for detecting diabetes complications quickly and affordably.

Normal M-mode, Pulsed Wave and Tissue Doppler Echocardiographic Studies in Healthy Working Police Dogs

Background: Physical activity alters the cardiovascular system of dogs depending on the exercise characteristics and the animal’s physical conditioning. Little is known about the cardiovascular changes in working police dogs. This study evaluated the cardiovascular responses of working Labradors to regular exercise and various workload. Methods: Twelve working Labradors of Tamil Nadu police department that were regularly trained and exercised 30 minutes morning and evening and twelve normal household pet Labradors brought for regular checkup to Madras Veterinary College Teaching hospital were taken for the study. All the animals were subjected to physical, clinical, hematobiochemical, electrocardiographic examinations and cardiac auscultation before performing echocardiography. Those animals which showed normal recordings in all the above tests were further subjected to M-mode, Pulsed wave and Tissue Doppler echocardiography. In this study, the resting heart rate values of working groups were lesser than that of normal pet dogs. Result: The results of echocardiography showed significant increase in Interventricular septal diameter during diastole, left atrial diameter, aortic artery diameter and the left atrium to aortic diameter ratio without impairing systolic and diastolic cardiac functions in working dogs. The present study indicated that there were few changes in the echocardiographic parameters which might be a response to physiological adaptation and regular exercise.

The history of compensation system for workers with pneumoconiosis-related lung cancer

To review the historical aspects of compensation system for workers with pneumoconiosis who developed lung cancer. Materials and papers published on the compensation system as discussed in administrative meetings were utilized. Legal claims for compensation for lung cancer among individuals with pneumoconiosis increased during the period of rapid economic growth in Japan. A possible causal relationship between pneumoconiosis and lung cancer in workers has been discussed by committees of specialists. The Expert Committee on Pneumoconiosis and Lung Cancer in 1978 did not find a causal relationship between them. However, a survey of physicians specializing in pneumoconiosis revealed medical disadvantages among individuals diagnosed with pneumoconiosis who developed lung cancer. The Ministry of Labour announced the risk of work-related lung cancer in patients with advanced pneumoconiosis (class IV or equivalent severity). Since then, numerous lung cancer patients with pneumoconiosis have been adjudicated. In 1997, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) re-evaluated the carcinogenicity of silica and declared it to be a Group I carcinogen in humans. The Expert Committee on Compensation of Lung Cancer Cases Developing from Pneumoconiosis discussed the IARC evaluation but did not accept this classification. However, the Committee of Occupational Exposure Limits in the Japan Society of Occupational Health upheld the IARC evaluation of silica as a Group I carcinogen. Because the Expert Committee of Medical Disadvantage of Lung Cancer Patients with Pneumoconiosis accepted the increased risk of lung cancer in patients with class III or equivalent severity pneumoconiosis, the Ministry of Labour announced worker compensation for such patients. The Expert Committee of Health Control of Pneumoconiosis Complicated with Lung Cancer reported in 2002 that a meta-analysis revealed no increased risk of lung cancer among workers exposed to crystalline silica; however, there was an increased risk of lung cancer in patients with pneumoconiosis. The Ministry of Labour has added lung cancer to the list of complications from pneumoconiosis and, if necessary, regular medical checkups for lung cancer. After Leaving dust work, the Health Care System provides for workers who are diagnosed With class II or higher pneumoconiosis. Therefore, if an individual with pneumoconiosis develops class II or higher lung cancer, that individual becomes eligible for workers' compensation. The conclusion of the Expert Committee in 2002 and the decision of the Ministry of Labour to add lung cancer to its list of complications of pneumoconiosis are evaluated to be appropriate.

Pediatric nurses in Greece, investigation of knowledge and attitude towards the predisposing factors of coronary heart disease

Abstract Introduction Today, everyone agrees that the best treatment of coronary artery disease is its prevention through understanding the role and, of course, controlling the predisposing factors, i.e. those particular characteristics whose presence predicts the occurrence and progression of the disease. As Health professionals, nurses must know about the predisposing factors, participate in prevention programs, and advise on the Algorithm of Care. Objective To investigate pediatric nurses' knowledge about the predisposing factors of coronary Heart disease and assess the degree of risk of developing coronary heart disease based on the prevention measures they take and their lifestyle. Material and Methods The study sample consisted of 164 working nurses in our Pediatric hospitals, and its duration was four months. A specially designed questionnaire was used for data collection, which was distributed to employees of different departments and was answered by a total of 164 nurses. The questionnaire was weighted to check its validity, and minor adjustments were made for the study. Results Pediatric nurses identify the most important predisposing factors of coronary heart disease as hypertension, smoking, dyslipidemia, and stress as a result of their profession. They have a significantly increased body mass index, poor dietary habits, and appear negligent in preventive cardiac screening. Conclusions The level of knowledge of Greek pediatric nurses regarding the prevention of coronary heart disease is satisfactory. Their working environment, stress, lifestyle, and lack of regular check-ups make them extremely vulnerable to the predisposing factors of coronary heart disease.

A Prospective Study on Lifestyle Factors, Body Mass Index Changes, and Lipitension Risk in Japanese Young and Middle-Aged Women.

Background: This study investigates how lifestyle factors and westernization contribute to obesity and examines the influence of body mass index (BMI) changes and lifestyle factors on "lipitension," a significant risk factor for heart disease and metabolic syndrome. Methods: This prospective study focused on women aged 20-64 without pre-existing hypertension and dyslipidemia who underwent regular medical checkups between April 2016 and March 2022. Anthropometric measurements and blood pressure, along with low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides levels, were assessed. Results: Over an average 46.5-month follow-up, 11.5% of initially healthy young and middle-aged women developed lipitension. Categorizing participants based on BMI changes revealed stable (63.8%), decreased (12.5%), and increased (23.8%) groups within this 11.5%. Increased BMI is linked with a heightened hazard risk for lipitension. Women with increased BMI who refrained from snacking (aHR [95% confidence interval (CI)] = 2.750 [1.433-5.279]), avoided late-night eating (aHR [95% CI] = 1.346 [1.032-1.754]), and engaged in alcohol consumption (aHR [95% CI] = 2.037 [1.138-3.646]) showed an elevated risk. Conversely, within the decreased BMI group, behaviors like skipping breakfast (aHR [95% CI] = 0.190 [0.047-0.764]), eating quickly (aHR [95% CI] = 0.457 [0.215-0.972]), and not eating late (aHR [95% CI] = 0.665 [0.467-0.948]) were associated to a reduced lipitension. Subgroup analysis for women with BMI <23 revealed specific behaviors influencing lipitension risk in both BMI-increased and BMI-stable groups. Conclusion: Customized interventions, including for women with BMI <23, enhance heart health, mitigating global lifestyle diseases and obesity.

Indicated Prevention for Children Screened in Routine Health Care: Effectiveness of a Social Skills Program on Social Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms.

Social anxiety is common in childhood and potentially transitions into clinical disorders including depression. The present study aimed to examine the effectiveness of an indicated prevention program for children screened in routine care. Data came from the PROMPt project, a prospective implementation study (10/2018-09/2022) that explored a novel care chain, starting with screening with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) as part of regular health check-ups, followed by indicated assignment and participation in a prevention program. Questionnaires assessing anxiety and depression symptoms were administered shortly after screening or before program participation (T0), six months after screening or after program participation (T1) and at a follow-up, six months after T1 (T2). Children who participated in a group cognitive-behavioral social skills program (TT; n = 145) were compared using mixed model analyses with non-participating children who were either screened as normal (NOR; n = 894) or refused program participation despite indication (NoTT; n = 67). TT scores improved from T0 to T1 compared to NOR and NoTT (anxiety β = -0.71 and β = -0.71, social anxiety β = -0.46 and β = -0.52, depression β = -0.52 and β = -0.73). Improvement was maintained at T2. Moderation analyses showed a trend toward greater benefit for participants with higher baseline scores. Indicated prevention can improve anxiety and depression symptoms in children identified by screening in routine care. Systematic screening and targeted prevention may positively affect mental health of children on a population level.

The association between TSH and thyroid hormones in the normal or subclinical dysfunction range with left ventricular diastolic dysfunction

Thyroid hormones modulate the cardiovascular system. However, the effects of subclinical thyroid dysfunction and euthyroidism on cardiac function remain unclear. We investigated the association between left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction and subclinical thyroid dysfunction or thyroid hormones within the reference range. This cross-sectional study included 26,289 participants (22,197 euthyroid, 3,671 with subclinical hypothyroidism, and 421 with subclinical thyrotoxicosis) who underwent regular health check-ups in the Republic of Korea. Individuals with thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels > 4.2 µIU/mL and normal free thyroxine (FT4, 0.78–1.85 ng/dL) and triiodothyronine (T3, 76–190 ng/dL) levels were defined as having subclinical hypothyroidism. Individuals with serum TSH levels < 0.4 µIU/mL and normal FT4 and T3 levels were defined as having subclinical thyrotoxicosis. The cardiac structure and function were evaluated using echocardiography. LV diastolic dysfunction with normal ejection fraction (EF) was defined as follows: EF of > 50% and (a) E/e’ ratio > 15, or (b) E/e’ ratio of 8–15 and left atrial volume index ≥ 34 mL/m2. Subclinical hypothyroidism was significantly associated with cardiac indices regarding LV diastolic dysfunction. The odds of having LV diastolic dysfunction was also increased in participants with subclinical hypothyroidism (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.36, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01–1.89) compared to euthyroid participants. Subclinical thyrotoxicosis was not associated with LV diastolic dysfunction. Among the thyroid hormones, only serum T3 was significantly and inversely associated with LV diastolic dysfunction even within the normal range. Subclinical hypothyroidism was significantly associated with LV diastolic dysfunction, whereas subclinical thyrotoxicosis was not. Serum T3 is a relatively important contributor to LV diastolic dysfunction compared to TSH or FT4.

Possible pitfalls in the prediction of weight gain in middle-aged normal-weight individuals: Results from the NDB-K7Ps-study-2

BackgroundThe prevalence of obesity has not decreased worldwide and obesity-related morbidities have been increasing steadily. However, few studies have investigated factors contributing to weight gain in normal-weight individuals. Thus, in this community-based cohort study, we aimed to investigate factors contributing to weight gain in normal-weight participants. MethodsClinical variables and 10 % increase in weight over 10 years (10 %IBW10Y) were retrospectively investigated in apparently healthy 615,077 normal-weight (body mass index (BMI) 21.0–24.9 kg/m2) participants aged 40–64 years who had regularly undergone health checkup. Machine learning and logistic regression analysis (nested case-control study) were used to predict 10 %IBW10Y. ResultsIn total, 6.8 % of men and 8.9 % of women had 10 %IBW10Y (P < 0.0001). The prevalence of obesity (BMI ≥25.0 kg/m2) after 10 years and weight gain were higher in participants with 10 %IBW10Y (72.3 %, 8.9 kg) (case-group) versus those without 10 %IBW10Y (11.5 %, −0.4 kg) (control-group), respectively. Machine learning showed positive contributing factors to 10 %IBW10Y were, in descending order, age early 40 s, current smoking, female sex, low serum triglyceride (≤59 mg/dL), and low glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (≤4.9 %). Age early 60 s, non-smoking, male sex, high triglyceride (≥200 mg/dL), and HbA1c 6.0 %−6.9 % were negative contributing factors. Logistic regression analysis showed similar results except for high HbA1c (≥7.5 %) as a positive contributing factor. ConclusionsIn middle-aged individuals with normal weight who undergo regular health check-ups, certain favorable features (female sex, low triglyceride, and low HbA1c), as well as smoking habits that are subject to change in the future, which could lead to weight gain, may be overlooked.250 ＜250 words

Menopause and Oral Health: Clinical Implications and Preventive Strategies

ABSTRACT Menopause, occurring typically between the ages of 45 and 55 years, marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years and is characterized by the cessation of menstruation and a significant decline in estrogen and progesterone production. These hormonal changes impact various aspects of health, including oral health. This review explores the clinical implications of menopause on oral health and outlines preventive strategies. Hormonal changes during menopause can lead to xerostomia (dry mouth), periodontal disease, burning mouth syndrome (BMS), oral mucosal changes, altered taste sensation, and osteoporosis-related oral health issues. Xerostomia results from decreased salivary flow, increasing the risk of dental caries and oral infections. Periodontal disease is exacerbated by estrogen deficiency, leading to bone loss and increased tooth mobility. BMS, characterized by a chronic burning sensation, and oral mucosal atrophy are linked to hormonal fluctuations. In addition, altered taste perception and osteoporosis further complicate oral health management. Effective prevention and management strategies include regular dental checkups, good oral hygiene practices, and tailored treatments such as fluoride treatments, saliva substitutes, and hormone replacement therapy. Nonpharmacological approaches such as stress management and lifestyle modifications also play a role. This review emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, involving dental and medical professionals, to address the complex oral health challenges faced by menopausal women. Understanding the underlying mechanisms and implementing evidence-based preventive measures can significantly enhance the oral health and overall well-being of menopausal women.

Public Awareness, Knowledge of Presbyopia and Compliance to Eye Examination in Jordan.

To assess public awareness and knowledge about presbyopia and their compliance to ocular examination in Jordan. A cross-sectional survey was designed to interview people in different provinces of Jordan. Socio-demographic data such as age, gender and level of education and region was reported. The first part of the questionnaire assessed awareness of presbyopia in terms of the need for spectacles with age, age of onset, possible causes of presbyopia and methods of presbyopia management. The second part of the questionnaire evaluated compliance of the participants with ocular examination in terms of frequency and motive to do general eye check, intraocular pressure (IOP), fundus exam and visual acuity. A total of 802 participants (232 males, 570 females) with an average age of 28 (±11.6) completed the questionnaire. Most participants (84.2%) knew that glasses are needed for near vision as age increases, and 62.8% estimated the age at which spectacles are required (40 years or older). Over half understood that presbyopia is correctable and progressive. Age significantly influenced knowledge about the need for near vision spectacles, and whether presbyopia is preventable and progressive (both p < 0.05). Females were more knowledgeable about these aspects. The frequency of eye examinations, particularly fundus exams and IOP tests, was significantly influenced by age but not by education. Gender only significantly affected the frequency of vision checks (p = 0.01), with females being more likely to adhere to them. This study demonstrated a good level of awareness and knowledge about presbyopia among Jordanians, especially those over 40 and females. Regular eye check-ups were more common among young participants and females. Addressing misconceptions about presbyopia's preventability and promoting regular eye exams are crucial for early diagnosis and management of presbyopia and other serious eye conditions.

Analysis of Psychological Distress and Dental Anxiety in Patients Attending Dental Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The COVID-19 epidemic has affected all facets of patient care, including dentistry services, and placed hitherto unheard-of demands on healthcare systems throughout the world. More and more emphasis is being paid to psychological discomfort and dental anxiety that epidemic patients face when seeking dental care. The purpose of this research was to examine the psychological distress and dental anxiety levels of patients receiving dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic in a tertiary care setting between 2021 and 2022. For this study, 300 patients with regular dental checkups were selected as a convenience sample. Self-report questionnaires measuring dental anxiety and psychological discomfort were filled out by participants. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data once demographic information was gathered. The majority of participants experienced psychological anguish (66.7%) and dental anxiety (73.3%) at moderate-to-severe levels. When compared to pre-pandemic values, there was a substantial increase in psychological distress (P < 0.001) and dental anxiety (P < 0.001) throughout the pandemic period. Current research shows how the COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected the mental health of patients receiving dental care, underscoring the need of catering to patients' mental health needs in dental practices during public health emergencies.

Association Between Gastrointestinal and Sleep Problems in the General Population of Japan: A Cross-Sectional Community-Based Observational Study.

Background and aim Poor sleep is known to be associated with functional gastrointestinal (GI) problems in the general population, but the exact mechanisms underlying the relationship remainunclear. Deeper insights into the exact mechanisms underlying the connection may benefit individuals suffering from these conditions without efficient treatments. Therefore, this study investigated the association between functional GI symptom levels and sleep-related characteristics in the general population of Japan. Methods In this cross-sectional questionnaire-based observational study, data including the self-reported levelof poor sleep and functional GI symptoms in the last one month were collected fromconsecutive individuals who visited a hospital in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, for regular medical checkups between April 2020 and March 2023. The levels of other physical and mental conditions, such as stress at home, fatigability, irritability, thermoregulatory problems, and edema in the limbs, were measured with an 11-point Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) between 0 and 10. Additional sleep-related specific information, such as sleep length, wake-up time, bedtime, trouble falling asleep, and nocturnal awakening, were further collected. Correlations with functional GI symptoms in these characteristics were evaluated by bivariate correlation analyses and generalized regression analyses. Results A total of 151 consecutive adults aged ≥18 years (77 males and 74 females) participated in this study. In bivariate correlation analyses, chronic GI symptom levels were significantly correlated with stress at home (p=0.0005), fatigability (p=0.0008), irritability (p=0.0022), edema in the limbs (p<0.0001), and sleep problem (p<0.0001). In the following generalized regression analysis, significant correlations with GI symptom levels were observed in sleep problems (p=0.0042) and edema in the limbs (p=0.0256). Further bivariate correlation analyses using sleep-related subscales revealed that trouble falling asleep in bed (p=0.0001), midnight awakening (p=0.0143), and wakeup time (p=0.0465) were correlated with GI symptom levels. In the following generalized regression analysis, a significant correlation withGI symptom levels was observed in trouble falling asleep (p=0.0239). Conclusion Functional GI symptoms in the general population of Japan were associated with poor sleep, even after adjusting for daily stress and irritability levels. Among the sleep-related characteristics, trouble falling asleep was associated with GI dysfunctions. Assessing sleep-related information and achieving good sleep quality with smooth sleep induction may be a clue to relieving GI dysfunctions with uncertain causes.