Risk Factor For Chronic Disease Research Articles

A reduced carbohydrate diet improves glycemic regulation in hyperglycemic older people in a retirement home: The SAGE study.

Poor glucose regulation associated with gradual insulin resistance is a significant risk factor in several age-related chronic diseases. An eating plan that promotes a lower carbohydrate intake may have a beneficial effect on glucose metabolism. This study aimed to evaluate how a diet reduced carbohydrate by 32% (RCHO) over a 2-month period would influence the metabolic profile of older individuals (N = 24) living in a retirement home (RH). A continuous glucose monitor was used to measure blood glucose during four periods: the standard diet before (baseline) and after (washout) the intervention, during the 4 initial days of the RCHO diet (RCHO-early), and the final days of the 2-month intervention (RCHO-end). The blood metabolic profile was also measured (glucose, ketones, insulin, triglycerides and cholesterol). RCHO intake decreased average blood glucose compared to the standard diet in hyperglycemic participants: RCHO-early 7.8 ± 1.0 vs 7.5 ± 1.1 mM (p = 0.012) and RCHO-end 7.8 ± 1.0 vs 7.0 ± 0.9 mM (p = 0.050). In the hyperglycemic participants, the percentage of time spent in hyperglycemia (> 10.0 mM) decreased by 50% during the RCHO-early (p = 0.012) and by 66% at RCHO-end (p = 0.021) compared to baseline. Glycated hemoglobin was significantly lower at RCHO-end in both hyperglycemic and normoglycemic participants compared to baseline (p < 0.008). Plasma ketones increased 3-fold in hyperglycemic participants at RCHO-end compared to baseline (p < 0.028). This study shows that an RCHO diet has metabolic health benefits in an older population and confirms its safety, tolerability, and acceptability in a RH. (NCT06022094).

Optimal tacrolimus levels for reducing CKD risk and the impact of intrapatient variability on CKD and ESRD development following liver transplantation.

This study aimed to identify the risk factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) following liver transplantation (LT), with a specific focus on tacrolimus levels and intrapatient variability (IPV). Among the 1,076 patients who underwent LT between 2000 and 2018, 952 were included in the analysis. The tacrolimus doses and levels were recorded every 3 months, and the IPV was calculated using the coefficient of variability. The cumulative incidence rates of CKD and ESRD were calculated based on baseline kidney function at the time of LT. The impact of tacrolimus levels and their IPV on the development of CKD and ESRD was evaluated, and the significant risk factors were identified. Within a median follow-up of 97.3 months, the 5-year cumulative incidence rates of CKD (0.58 vs. 0.24) and ESRD (0.07 vs. 0.01) were significantly higher in the acute kidney injury (AKI) group than in the normal glomerular filtration rate (GFR) group. In the normal GFR group, the tacrolimus levels were identified as a risk factor for CKD, with a level of ≤4.5 ng/mL suggested as optimal for minimizing the risk of CKD. Furthermore, the IPV of tacrolimus levels and doses emerged as a significant risk factor for CKD development in both groups (P<0.05), with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate also being a risk factor in HBV-infected patients. The IPV of tacrolimus levels was also a significant factor in ESRD development (P<0.05). This study elucidated the optimal tacrolimus through level and highlighted the impact of IPV on the CKD and ESRD development post-LT.

Association between Egg Consumption and Dementia in Chinese Adults.

The association between egg consumption and dementia is unclear. We carried out a population-based case-control study in China to determine the independent association of egg consumption with dementia. We randomly recruited 233 participants with dementia and 233 without dementia from the community health service clinics and the dementia management system in Guangzhou, China to examine their dietary intakes over the past two years and other risk factors for chronic diseases. Egg consumption was categorised by frequency as Non-consuming/<monthly, Monthly, Weekly, Daily or ≥Twice a day. Participants with dementia, compared to controls, were more likely to consume eggs at Monthly (15.5% vs. 8.6%) but less likely to consume at Daily (28.3% vs. 41.6%). The age-adjusted odds ratio (OR) of dementia was 1.76 (95% CI 1.10-2.84) in participants who consumed eggs Weekly and 4.34 (2.16-8.72) in Monthly consumption compared to Daily. However, no significant associations were found for those Non-consuming/<monthly 1.35 (0.71-2.56) and ≥Twice a day 3.49 (0.83-14.67). After further adjustments, including gender, education, family income, smoking, alcohol consumption, dietary intakes (including red meats, poultry, fish, vegetables and fruits), cardiovascular disease and other co-morbidities, the corresponding ORs were 2.10 (1.10-4.02), 4.82 (1.90-12.27), 0.73 (0.29-1.88) and 4.16 (0.80-21.63), respectively. Among participants who consumed eggs Monthly, Weekly or Daily, an inverse association between egg consumption and dementia was observed; the multiple adjusted OR of dementia was 0.48 (0.30-0.76) per average increment in egg consumption. Compared to Monthly consumption, the OR for Weekly consumption was 0.44 (0.18-1.08) and 0.22 (0.08-0.59) for Daily consumption. This study suggests that Daily egg consumption could help reduce the risk of dementia, while uncertainties regarding the association of non-consuming/<monthly or ≥Twice a day consumption with dementia warrant further research.

Hypocretin-1/Hypocretin Receptor 1 Regulates Neuroplasticity and Cognitive Function through Hippocampal Lactate Homeostasis in Depressed Model.

Cognitive dysfunction is not only a common symptom of major depressive disorder, but also a more common residual symptom after antidepressant treatment and a risk factor for chronic and recurrent disease. The disruption of hypocretin regulation is known to be associated with depression, however, their exact correlation is remains to be elucidated. Hypocretin-1 levels are increased in the plasma and hypothalamus from chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) model mice. Excessive hypocretin-1 conducted with hypocretin receptor 1 (HCRTR1) reduced lactate production and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression by hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), thus impairing adult hippocampal neuroplasticity, and cognitive impairment in CUMS model. Subsequently, it is found that HCRTR1 antagonists can reverse these changes. The direct effect of hypocretin-1 on hippocampal lactate production and cognitive behavior is further confirmed by intraventricular injection of hypocretin-1 and microPET-CT in rats. In addition, these mechanisms are further validated in astrocytes and neurons in vitro. Moreover, these phenotypes and changes in molecules of lactate transport pathway can be duplicated by specifically knockdown of HCRTR1 in hippocampal astrocytes. In summary, the results provide molecular and functional insights for involvement of hypocretin-1-HCRTR1 in altered cognitive function in depression.

Results of a survey of medical students on key aspects of health preservation

Purpose: Study of the influence and assessment of risk factors for chronic non-infectious diseases in medical students through an online survey. Materials and methods: During the period from 03/19/24 to 04/08/24, an online survey was conducted at the Rostov State Medical University using the google platform. A group of 1232 people was formed, including students from 1st to 6th year of all faculties. The results of the survey were systematized and analyzed. Results: Вy analyzing the information received from respondents, several groups of risk factors for chronic NCDs were identified: 1. Sleep disturbances; 2. Indifference to compliance with healthy eating standards; 3. Susceptibility to chronic emotional stress. Conclusion: Based on the results of the study, risk factors for chronic non-diseases were identified among Rostov State Medical University students (the leading ones were: sleep disturbance, non-compliance with healthy eating standards, stress). It was also found that indicators such as physical activity and the presence of bad habits are not common risk factors in this group of respondents. From the above, we can conclude about the feasibility and importance of introducing preventive measures to increase the importance and significance of such aspects as healthy.

Association of obesity severity and duration with incidence of chronic kidney disease

IntroductionObesity is a known risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD), but the impact of obesity severity and duration on CKD incidence is unclear.MethodsCumulative Excess Weight (CEW) and Cumulative Excess Waist Circumference (CEWC) scores were calculated, which represent the accumulation of deviations from expected body mass index and waist circumference values over time until the development of CKD or the end of the follow-up period. Time-dependent Cox models were used to investigate the sex-stratified association of CEW and CEWC with CKD incidence while controlling for confounding variables.ResultsOut of the 8697 participants who were evaluated in this study, 56% (4865) were women and the mean age was 40 ± 14. During the 15-year follow-up period, 41.7% (3629) of the participants developed CKD. Among the CKD patients, 65.4% (829) of men and 77.9% (1839) of women had a BMI higher than 25, and high WC was found to be 73.7% (934) and 55.3% (1306) for men and women, respectively. We found a significant association between one standard deviation change of CEW and the development of CKD in both sexes (fully adjusted hazard ratios and 95% CI of CEW in men and women were 1.155 [1.081–1.232) and 1.105 (1.047–1.167)]. However, the association between CEWC and CKD development was only significant among men participants [HR = 1.074 (1.006–1.147)].ConclusionOver a 15-year follow-up, the accumulation of general and central obesity was associated with an increased incidence of CKD development.

Risk Factors of Chronic Kidney Diseases: A Retrospective, Record based Study from a Tertiary Care Hospital in India

Abstract Background: There is a alarming rise of chronic kidney diseases (CKDs) prevalence globally, which is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The burden of Chronic Kidney Diseases is rapidly rising in developing countries. The study aimed to assess the major risk factors of CKD in patients of a tertiary hospital. Materials and Methods: Hospital-based, retrospective study was conducted at a hospital, in Mumbai, among CKD patients. Medical records of 500 CKD patients were analysed. Results: The mean age of participants was 53.87 years. Majority of the patients had risk factors for CKD such as hypertension and diabetes. The mean serum creatinine was 4.04 mg/dL. Majority of the cases were in G4 and G5 stages of CKD and 201 patients had undergone kidney transplant. Association between age and transplant was significant. Furthermore, association between developing New Onset Diabetes Mellitus After Transplantation (NODAT) was statistically significant. Conclusion: Major risk factors for CKD were hypertension, diabetes and advancing age. Most of the cases of CKD were diagnosed late. There should be increased awareness about CKD among the population with special emphasis on cases of hypertension and diabetes.

A Risk Prediction Model for New-Onset Chronic Kidney Disease in the Elderly

Plain Language SummaryDifferent regions have different risk factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD), and using a single model for prediction can often lead to errors. This study aimed to create an easy-to-use tool to predict the risk of CKD in older adults. We analyzed data from 5,416 people aged over 65 who had regular health check-ups between January 2017 and July 2021. We found that about 20% developed CKD during a follow-up period of 2.3 years. Factors like age, being female, diabetes, high triglyceride levels, and initial kidney function were used to build the prediction model. This model was good at forecasting CKD risk and was validated to ensure its accuracy. It can help doctors quickly identify older adults who might be at risk of kidney problems and start early treatment.

Retinal nerve fiber layer defects and chronic kidney disease: the Kailuan Eye Study.

To investigate whether retinal nerve fiber layer defects (RNFLDs) is a potential risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Chinese adults. The Kailuan Eye Study was a population-based study that included 14 440 participants. All participants underwent detailed assessments, RNFLDs were diagnosed using color fundus photographs. Overall, 12 507 participants [8533 males (68.23%)] had complete systemic examination data and at least one evaluable fundus photograph. RNFLDs were found in 621 participants [5.0%; 95% confidence interval (CI): 4.6%-5.34%], and 70 cases of multiple RNFLDs were found (11.27%). After adjusting multiple factors, RNFLDs was significantly associated with CKD severity, the ORs of CKD stage 3, stage 4 and stage 5 were 1.698, 4.167, and 9.512, respectively. Multiple RNFLDs were also associated with CKD severity after adjusting multiple factors, the ORs of CKD stage 3 and stage 5 were 4.465 and 11.833 respectively. Furthermore, 2294 participants had CKD (18.34%, 95%CI: 17.68%-18.99%). After adjusting for other factors, CKD presence was significantly correlated with the presence of RNFLDs. The strongest risk factors for RNFLDs are CKD and hypertension. Conversely, RNFLDs can be an ocular feature in patients with CKD. Fundoscopy can help detect systemic diseases, and assessment for RNFLDs should be considered in CKD patients.

Prevalence, mortality and risk factors for self-reported COPD among smokers and never smokers, NHANES 1999-2018.

Cigarette smoke is the main risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but 25% to 50% of cases occur in non-smokers. In the US, limited recent national data compare COPD prevalence between smokers and never smokers. Furthermore, our study seeks to explore the prevalence and mortality of self-reported COPD among smokers (including current smokers and ex-smokers) and never smokers in the US from 1999 to 2018, and to identify the risk factors and differences. This cross-sectional analysis used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999-2018. Age-standardized prevalence of self-reported COPD among current smokers, ex-smokers, and never smokers was calculated using sample weights and 2010 US Census estimates. Risk factors were evaluated through weighted logistic regression models. Subsequently, participants who enrolled in the study cohort were followed until 31 December 2019, to determine all-cause mortality rates. Between 1999 and 2018, the weighted prevalence of COPD among current smokers, ex-smokers, and never smokers in the U.S. was 12.6%, 9.6%, and 4.1%, respectively. The mortality rates observed were 21.1% among current smokers with COPD, 29% among ex-smokers with COPD, and 12% among never smokers with COPD. Over this period, among the general population in the U.S., the proportion of current smokers has declined, the proportion of never smokers has increased, and the proportion of ex-smokers has remained relatively stable. From 1999 to 2018, COPD prevalence rose from 13.7% to 21.9% among current smokers, stayed at 10.1% among ex-smokers, and dropped from 4.9% to 3.3% among never smokers. Independent risk factors for COPD across all groups included being female, older, and lower income. In particular, US citizens and non-Hispanic Whites (among ex-smokers and never smokers) were at higher risk compared to their counterparts. The prevalence and all-cause mortality of COPD among current smokers and ex-smokers remain elevated. Although the prevalence of COPD among never smokers is gradually declining, it continues to be significant, thereby maintaining a substantial burden of disease. Furthermore, common independent risk factors for COPD across current smokers, ex-smokers, and never smokers include female gender, advanced age, lower income, and deviations from normal body weight whether overweight or underweight.

Low-Level Tragus Stimulation Attenuates Blood Pressure in Young Individuals With Hypertension: Results From a Small-Scale Single-Blind Controlled Randomized Clinical Trial.

Hypertension is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular and chronic kidney diseases. Its management in young people remains limited. Device-based therapies, such as low-level tragus stimulation (LL-TS), a noninvasive method that reduces sympathetic activity, have recently been explored for resistant hypertension. This trial involved patients with Grade 1 hypertension with no other medical history. LL-TS (20 Hz, 1 mA, 1 h/day) was applied for 3 months on the tragus (Intervention group [IG]) or earlobe (Control group [CG]). Blood pressure and outcomes were assessed at the first, second, and third months. Among 40 patients, 21 were in IG and 19 in CG. Baseline systolic blood pressure was similar between IG (142.62±8.18 mm Hg) and CG (143.00±8.61 mm Hg), P=0.89. Post-LL-TS, systolic blood pressure showed significant reductions in IG compared with CG at the first (IG: 134.47±5.95 mm Hg, CG: 141.28±6.78 mm Hg, P=0.002), second (IG: 132.50±7.51 mm Hg, CG: 140.62±7.15 mm Hg, P=0.001), and third months (IG: 128.81±7.13 mm Hg, CG: 136.51±7.96 mm Hg, P=0.003). diastolic blood pressure also differed significantly: first month (IG: 85.34±5.81 mm Hg, CG: 89.74±6.32 mm Hg, P=0.03), second month (IG: 82.12±5.22 mm Hg, CG: 88.57±7.11 mm Hg, P=0.002), and third month (IG: 80.71±5.96 mm Hg, CG: 87.55±5.26 mm Hg, P=0.001). Heart rate was unchanged (P>0.05). Only 0.01% of IG subjects reported site irritation, with no serious adverse events. LL-TS led to significant blood pressure reductions in young patients with essential hypertension. Further larger trials are needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of LL-TS. URL: https://www.chictr.org.cn/; Unique identifier: ChiCTR2000038448.

Serum uric acid-lowering effect of sacubitril/valsartan in hypertensive patients: evaluation by switching from angiotensin II receptor blockers.

Since hyperuricemia is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease, it is necessary to pay attention to trends in uric acid levels when treating hypertensive patients with drugs. The present study investigated the effect of switching from angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) to sacubitril/valsartan on serum uric acid levels in treated hypertensive patients and further examined what factors could be associated with its effect. In 75 hypertensive patients under treatment with at least one antihypertensive agent including ARB, clinic blood pressure and biochemical parameters were assessed before and after drug switching to sacubitril/valsartan (200 mg/day). Clinic SBP and DBP significantly decreased after drug switching to sacubitril/valsartan (P < 0.0001, respectively). Serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and urinary protein did not change after switching to sacubitril/valsartan, but serum uric acid significantly decreased (5.70 ± 1.44 to 5.40 ± 1.43 mg/dl, P = 0.0017). The degree of uric acid lowering was greater in patients switching from ARB plus diuretic than in those switching from ARB, but switching to sacubitril/valsartan from ARB only (except losartan) also significantly decreased uric acid levels. In all subjects, the change in serum uric acid after drug switching to sacubitril/valsartan was closely correlated with the change in eGFR (r = -0.5264, P < 0.0001). Our findings indicate that switching from ARB to sacubitril/valsartan reduces serum uric acid levels in hypertensive patients and suggest that this uric acid-lowering effect may be associated with an increase in eGFR.

Lifestyle and dietary habits according to extent and purpose of Brazilian pregnant women: Vigitel epidemiological survey

During pregnancy, food consumption is of utmost importance for the health of both the mother and the baby. A diet based on fresh and minimally processed foods, as opposed to ultra-processed foods, is essential to ensure health during pregnancy and postpartum. The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between lifestyle habits and food consumption among pregnant Brazilian women. This is a cross-sectional study using data from pregnant women included in the Chronic Disease Risk Factor Surveillance System via Telephone Survey (Vigitel) in 2021. Food consumption, considered the outcome variable, was assessed through a food frequency questionnaire, focusing on consumption from the previous day. The NOVA classification was used to categorize foods as fresh or ultra-processed. The Shapiro-Wilk test was conducted to verify normality, and the Pearson Chi-square test was applied. A significance level of p &lt; 0.05 was adopted. The sample consisted of 90 pregnant women. The analysis revealed a greater association with the consumption of ultra-processed foods among younger pregnant women compared to older age groups (p=0.020), as well as lower consumption of fresh foods (p=0.044). In conclusion, differences in food consumption were evident among pregnant women of different age groups. However, in order to understand the dietary patterns of pregnant women by regions of Brazil, it is necessary to conduct further studies to support programs aimed at the gestational period, reducing adverse effects and promoting maternal and child health.

New Obesity Treatment Agent: β-Caryophyllene

Abstract: Obesity is a pressing global public health challenge, recognized as a major risk factor for chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and cancer. The rising obesity rates necessitate effective and safe therapeutic interventions. Despite the availability of FDA-approved drugs for long-term weight management, these pharmacological treatments often entail significant side effects and high costs, leading to low patient adherence. Consequently, there is an increasing focus on natural anti-obesity agents. β-caryophyllene (BCP) has emerged as a promising candidate, owing to its broad pharmacological properties. This review critically examines recent advancements in understanding BCP's anti-obesity effects, encompassing in vitro, animal, and clinical studies. Key mechanisms by which BCP exerts its effects include modulation of gut microbiota, enhancement of energy expenditure, regulation of metabolic enzymes, and inhibition of lipid synthesis and absorption. These insights lay the groundwork for the potential development of BCP-based dietary supplements or pharmaceuticals aimed at combating obesity.

A research of omics-based biological aging clocks and their applications

Aging, a process of functional decline with the increase of chronological age, is a major risk factor for chronic diseases. Aging shows significant individual differences, which is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Accurate measurement of physiological age helps identify individuals with accelerated aging and those at high risk for chronic diseases and mortality, which would promote individual health management and precision medicine for healthy aging. In this paper, we summarize the omics-based aging clocks and discuss their current and future applications.

High SARS-CoV-2 seroincidence but low excess COVID mortality in Sierra Leone in 2020-2022.

While SARS-CoV-2 infection appears to have spread widely throughout Africa, documentation of associated mortality is limited. We implemented a representative serosurvey in one city of Sierra Leone in Western Africa, paired with nationally representative mortality and selected death registration data. Cumulative seroincidence using high quality SARS-CoV-2 serological assays was 69% by July 2021, rising to 84% by April 2022, mostly preceding SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. About half of infections showed evidence of neutralizing antibodies. However, excess death rates were low, and were concentrated at older ages. During the peak weeks of viral activity, excess mortality rates were 22% for individuals aged 30-69 years and 70% for those over 70. Based on electronic verbal autopsy with dual independent physician assignment of causes, excess deaths during viral peaks from respiratory infections were notable. Excess deaths differed little across specific causes that, a priori, are associated with COVID, and the pattern was consistent among adults with or without chronic disease risk factors. The overall 6% excess of deaths at ages ≥30 from 2020-2022 in Sierra Leone is markedly lower than reported from South Africa, India, and Latin America. Thus, while SARS-CoV-2 infection was widespread, our study highlights as yet unidentified mechanisms of heterogeneity in susceptibility to severe disease in parts of Africa.

Smoking: Profile of an Elderly Sample in the City of Porto Alegre-RS/Brazil

Objective: The objective of this study is to determine the profile of smokers in a sample of elderly people served by the Family Health Strategy (ESF) in the city of Porto Alegre/RS. Theoretical Framework: Smoking is one of the main risk factors for several chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and several other conditions. Although the number of smokers is declining in many countries, the impact of smoking remains a significant public health concern. Method: Cross-sectional study with prospective data collection involving a sample of 567 elderly people. 30 ESF teams from different Health Districts were chosen through a stratified random draw and 36 elderly people were selected from each team. Results and Discussion: The prevalence of smoking was 21.5%, with a higher prevalence in men (26%). Widowed elderly people had less history of smoking (47.8%), as did retired elderly people (54.7%), religious practitioners (50.7%) and those with higher incomes. An increase in prevalence was observed in elderly people who stopped smoking, with an increase in age groups. Research Implications: The research can provide specific data on the profile of elderly smokers in Porto Alegre, allowing public policies to be created or adjusted to more effectively serve this population. Originality/Value: While many studies on smoking focus on younger populations or middle-aged adults, the choice to specifically study smoking among older adults is less common and therefore fills a significant gap in the literature.

Burden of disease in Germany attributed to ambient particulate matter pollution : Findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019.

Ambient fine particulate matter pollution with adiameter less than 2.5micrometers (PM2.5) is asignificant risk factor for chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), leading to asubstantial disease burden, decreased quality of life, and deaths globally. This study aimed to investigate the disease and mortality burdens attributed to PM2.5 in Germany in 2019. Data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study 2019 were used to investigate disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs), years of life lost (YLLs), years lived with disability (YLDs), and deaths attributed to ambient PM2.5 pollution in Germany. In 2019, ambient PM2.5 pollution in Germany was associated with significant health impacts, contributing to 27,040 deaths (2.82% of total deaths), 568,784 DALYs (2.09% of total DALYs), 135,725 YLDs (1.09% of total YLDs), and 433,058 YLLs (2.92% of total YLLs). The analysis further revealed that cardiometabolic and respiratory conditions, such as ischemic heart disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and diabetes mellitus, were the leading causes of mortality and disease burden associated with ambient PM2.5 pollution in Germany from 1990-2019. Comparative assessments between 1990 and 2019 underscored ambient PM2.5 as aconsistent prominent risk factor, ranking closely with traditional factors like smoking, arterial hypertension, and alcohol use contributing to deaths, DALYs, YLDs, and YLLs. Ambient PM2.5 pollution is one of the major health risk factors contributing significantly to the burden of disease and mortality in Germany, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted interventions to address its substantial contribution to chronic NCDs.

Risk factor profile for non-communicable diseases: findings of a STEPS survey among the support staff at the University of Pretoria, South Africa

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are an important problem in South Africa; they account for 60% of all deaths. Early screening could help lower NCD incidences and long-term consequences. Objective: The study aimed to profile NCD risk factors among insourced support staff at the University of Pretoria in 2018. Design: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted at the University of Pretoria, Hatfield Campus. The World Health Organization (WHO) STEPwise approach to chronic disease risk factor surveillance (STEPS) questionnaire was administered to collect data in three steps. The participants’ behavioural risk profiles were gathered using the face-to-face interview technique (STEP I), followed by their physical risk profile using anthropometric and blood pressure measurements (STEP II). Last was the biochemical risk profile, including finger-prick blood glucose and cholesterol measurement (STEP III). Data were analysed using Epi-Info, version 3.54. Subjects: A convenient sample of participants aged 18–64 years from the Departments of Industrial Hygiene and Building Services, Landscape Services, Sports Fields Management, and Security Services (n = 146, 60% were females) took part in the study. Results: Most participants (97.8%) had low daily fruit and vegetable intake. Some 80% of the study population always or often added salt to their food when cooking. Daily alcohol consumption was reported by a quarter of the sample. More than two-thirds of all the participants were overweight or obese and 61% had central obesity. Conclusion: The study identified a high prevalence of several NCD risk factors. Tailored nutrition education and monitoring are needed to lower the elevated risk.

Real-World Outcomes of a Digital Behavioral Coaching Intervention to Improve Employee Health Status: Retrospective Observational Study.

Chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) account for major disability and premature mortality worldwide, with low- and middle-income countries being disproportionately burdened. Given the negative impact of NCDs on employee performance and work productivity, there is a rising need for stakeholders to identify effective workplace solutions that can improve employee health outcomes. As the workplace becomes more dispersed post pandemic, digital behavioral coaching offers a scalable, personalized, and cost-effective method of managing chronic disease risk factors among employees. This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the impact of a digital behavioral coaching program on year-to-year changes in employee health status in a cohort of Indonesian employees. This retrospective real-world exploratory analysis of secondary health data followed 774 employees of an Indonesian company who completed company-sponsored health screenings between 2021 and 2022 and were given access to Naluri (Naluri Hidup Sdn Bhd), a holistic digital therapeutics platform offering digital behavioral health coaching and self-help tools. Participants were retrospectively classified as those who received active coaching (n=177), passive coaching (n=108), and no coaching (n=489). Linear mixed-effects models were used to evaluate the year-to-year changes in health outcomes across the 3 employee groups, with post hoc analyses evaluating within-group differences between the 2 time points and between-group differences at follow-up. Significant time×group interaction effects were detected for body weight, BMI, hemoglobin A1c, low-density lipoprotein, total cholesterol, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Post hoc pairwise comparisons revealed significant improvements in hemoglobin A1c (mean difference [Mdiff]=-0.14, P=.008), high-density lipoprotein (Mdiff=+2.14, P<.001), and total cholesterol (Mdiff=-11.45, P<.001) for employees in the Active Coaching group between 2021 and 2022, with the other 2 groups reporting deteriorations in multiple health outcomes throughout the 2 time points. At follow-up, those who received active coaching between 2021 and 2022 reported significantly lower body weight (P<.001), BMI (P=.001), low-density lipoprotein (P=.045), and total cholesterol (P<.001) than the No Coaching group. This study demonstrates real-world outcomes and implications supporting the use of workplace digital behavioral coaching in improving employee health status. Given the rising burden of NCDs in the Southeast Asian region, our findings underscore the role that workplace digital health interventions can play in preventing and managing chronic disease risk factors.