Socio-demographic Related Factors Research Articles

Prevalence of DSM-5 depressive disorders and comorbidity in Spanish early adolescents: Has there been an increase in the last 20 years?

The aim of the study was to investigate the current prevalence of DSM-5 Depressive Disorders (DD) among Spanish school children and compare it with data obtained 20 years ago from the same place. We assessed comorbidity, severity and sociodemographic related factors. With a double-phase design, a sample of 1514 students participated in the 1st phase and 562 students (175 at risk of depression) were assessed in the 2nd phase with the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview for Kids. The estimated current prevalence of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) was 1.6%, similar to the 1.5% found 20 years ago. A total of 3.4% were diagnosed with some form of DD (MDD or Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)). No significant differences between genders were found in either of the two periods studied. The rate of depressive symptoms (11.6%) was not significantly different from that of previous data (9.4%). 80% and 71.9% of the children diagnosed with MDD and PDD respectively also had an anxiety disorder. In conclusion, we have not found an increase in depression among Spanish early adolescents. However, the data on the prevalence of DD, the comorbidity, and the impairment all highlight the need to design and implement appropriate preventive interventions in schools.

Prevalence of cardio metabolic risk factors and related socio-demographic factors in adults aged 18-59 years in 15 provinces of China

Objective: To analyze the prevalence and co-prevalence of cardio metabolic (CM) risk factors in adults in China. Methods: The project data of 2015 Nutritional Status and Health Transition of Chinese Residents were used, and 5 456 adults aged 18-59 years with complete socio-demographic, anthropometric, and blood biochemical data were selected as the study subjects. The definition released by the International Diabetes Federation in 2005 were used to define each CM risk factors, including central obesity, elevated TG, reduced HDL-C, elevated blood pressure and elevated FPG. The co-prevalence of the risk factors was defined as adults having ≥2 risk factors. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between CM risk and socio-demographic factors. Results: About 80.8% of adults had at least 1 risk factor, and 54.0% had co-prevalence of risk factors. Gender, age, education level and living area were significantly associated with the prevalence of major metabolic risk factors. After adjusting for other factors, compared with men, women were more likely to have central obesity and reduced HDL-C, but not more likely to have elevated blood pressure, elevated FPG and elevated TG (P<0.01). Compared with adults aged 18-44 years, adults aged 45-59 years were more likely to have central obesity, elevated blood pressure, elevated FPG and elevated TG (P<0.01). The odds of having central obesity, elevated blood pressure and elevated fasting plasma glucose in the adults in eastern China were significantly higher than those in the central and western China. Conclusions: In 2015, less than 20% of the adults aged 18-59 years in China had no cardio metabolic risk factors, and more than half of them had two or more risk factors. Gender, age and living areas were the major influencing factors. It is necessary to take effective intervention measures targeting adults at high-risk for the early prevention of cardiovascular disease.

Patterns of Alcohol Consumption and Socio-Demographic Factors among Women in North Central Nigeria

The patterns of alcohol consumption among females is of enormous public health concerns, as harmful consumption poses danger to their health, welfare, children and to the civil society. The study objectives were to determine the current prevalence of alcohol use, the related socio-demographic factors and the patterns of alcohol consumption. It was a descriptive cross-sectional study in Jos North Local Government Area, carried out from March to July, 2017 after ethical clearance was obtained. A multistage sampling technique was employed to select the participants who were age 18 years and above. A total of 272 females with an age range of 18 to 60 years responded. The mean age was 28.8±8.6 years. Majority 112(41.2%) were in the age group of 25-34 years. Most of them were never married 168 (61.8%), protestants 151(55.4%) and had secondary education 97(35.7%). About half of them were employed (148(54.4%) with 167(61.4%) of them earned an average monthly income of 20,000 naira or less. One hundred and fifty nine (58.5%) use alcohol in the family. The estimated prevalence of life time use, current use and abstention were 79.4%, 41.2% and 20.6% respectively. Of the current users 35(31.1%) were low risk while hazardous, harmful and dependent users were 30(26.8%), 21(18.8%) and 26(23.2%) respectively. The sociodemographic variables associated with current alcohol use were history of family use (χ2 = 3.088, df = 1, p = 0.01) and educational status (χ2 = 8.797, df = 3, p = 0.03). These findings call for immediate advocacy and sensitization of awareness concerning prevention, treatment and rehabilitation to stem the tide of deleterious patterns of alcohol consumption among females in the community.

Clinical study on natural gingival color.

The aims of the study were: to describe the gingival color surrounding the upper incisors in three sites in the keratinized gingiva, analyzing the effect of possible factors which modulate (socio-demographic and behavioral) intersubject variability; to study whether the gingiva color is the same in all three locations and to describe intrasubject color differences in the keratinized gingiva band. Using the CIELAB color system, three reference areas (free gingival margin, keratinized gingival body, and birth or upper part of the keratinized gingiva) were studied in 259 individuals, as well as the related socio-demographic factors, oral habits and the chronic intake of medication. Shadepilot™ spectrophotometer was used. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was performed. There are statistically significant differences between males and females for coordinates L* and a* in the middle and free gingival margin. For the b* coordinate, there are differences between males and females in the three locations studied (p < 0.05). The minimum and maximum coordinates in which the CIELAB natural gingival space is delimited are L* minima 28.3, L* maximum 65.4, a* minimum 11.1, a* maximum 37.2, b* minimum 6.9, and b* maximum 25.2*. Age, smoking, and the chronic intake of medication had no significant effect on gum color. There are perceptible color differences within the keratinized gingiva band. These chromatic differences must be taken into account if the prosthetic characterization of gingival tissue is to be considered acceptable. There are significant differences between the color coordinates of the three sites studied in the keratinized gingiva of men and women.

New partnerships in widowhood in Spain: Realities and desires

ABSTRACTWidowhood has traditionally been associated with the end of the family cycle; however, social and generational transformations in Spain are providing a new context for the development of new partnerships in widowhood. This study analyzes widowed persons who have found new partners and those who would be willing to do so, focusing on their characteristics and motives and related sociodemographic factors. Research is based on a sample of 306 widows and widowers in Spain taken from the survey Social Networks and Well-Being. The results reveal the importance of sociodemographic factors for both those who wish to have a partner as well as for those who have one. For the former, elements associated with quality of life are very important, while among those with a new partner, the key is not having an extensive family support network. The principal motives for looking for a new relationship are related to enjoying life more and not feeling alone; while those who reject a new relationship do so because of the belief that their lost partner is irreplaceable.

The prevalence of underweight, overweight and obesity and their related socio-demographic and lifestyle factors among adult women in Myanmar, 2015-16.

BackgroundThe aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of underweight and overweight or obesity and their socio-demographic and lifestyle factors in a female adult population in Myanmar.Material and methodsIn a national cross-sectional population-based survey in the 2015–16 Myanmar Demographic and Health Survey, 12,160 women aged 18–49 years and not currently pregnant completed questionnaires and anthropometric measurements. Nutritional status was determined using Asian body mass index cut-offs: underweight (BMI<18.5 kg/m2), overweight (23.0–27.4 kg/m2), and obesity (≥27.5 kg/m2). Multinomial logistic regression modelling was used to determine the association between socio-demographic and lifestyle factors and weight status.ResultsThe prevalence of underweight was 14.1%, overweight 28.1% and obesity 13.1%. Among different age groups, the prevalence of underweight was the highest among 18 to 29 year-olds (20.2%), while overweight or obesity was the highest in the age group 30 to 49 years (around 50%). In multinomial logistic regression, being 30 to 49 years old, poorer and richer wealth status, living in all the other regions of Myanmar and ever contraceptive use were inversely and current tobacco use, not working and having less than two children ever born were positively associated with underweight relative to normal weight. Older age, having secondary education, urban residence, wealthier economic status, living with a partner, living in the Northern and Southern regions of Myanmar, having less than two children ever born and having ever used contraceptives were positively and current tobacco use was negatively associated with overweight or obesity relative to normal weight.ConclusionsA dual burden of both underweight and overweight or obesity among female adults was found in Myanmar. Sociodemographic and health risk behaviour factors were identified for underweight and overweight or obesity that can guide public health interventions to address both of these conditions.

Prolonged Screen Viewing Times and Sociodemographic Factors among Pregnant Women: A Cross-Sectional Survey in China.

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of prolonged television, computer, and mobile phone viewing times and examined related sociodemographic factors among Chinese pregnant women. Methods: In this study, a cross-sectional survey was implemented among 2400 Chinese pregnant women in 16 hospitals of 5 provinces from June to August in 2015, and the response rate of 97.76%. We excluded women with serious complications and cognitive disorders. The women were asked about their television, computer, and mobile phone viewing during pregnancy. Prolonged television watching or computer viewing was defined as spending more than two hours on television or computer viewing per day. Prolonged mobile phone viewing was watching more than one hour on mobile phone per day. Results: Among 2345 pregnant women, about 25.1% reported prolonged television viewing, 20.6% reported prolonged computer viewing, and 62.6% reported prolonged mobile phone viewing. Pregnant women with long mobile phone viewing times were likely have long TV (Estimate = 0.080, Standard Error (SE) = 0.016, p < 0.001) and computer viewing times (Estimate = 0.053, SE = 0.022, p = 0.015). Pregnant women with long TV (Estimate = 0.134, SE = 0.027, p < 0.001) and long computer viewing times (Estimate = 0.049, SE = 0.020, p = 0.015) were likely have long mobile phone viewing times. Pregnant women with long TV viewing times were less likely to have long computer viewing times (Estimate = −0.032, SE = 0.015, p = 0.035), and pregnant women with long computer viewing times were less likely have long TV viewing times (Estimate = −0.059, SE = 0.028, p = 0.035). Pregnant women in their second pregnancy had lower prolonged computer viewing times than those in their first pregnancy (Odds Ratio (OR) 0.56, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.42–0.74). Pregnant women in their second pregnancy were more likely have longer prolonged mobile phone viewing times than those in their first pregnancy (OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.01–1.55). Conclusions: The high prevalence rate of prolonged TV, computer, and mobile phone viewing times was common for pregnant women in their first and second pregnancy. This study preliminarily explored the relationship between sociodemographic factors and prolonged screen time to provide some indication for future interventions related to decreasing screen-viewing times during pregnancy in China.

Prevalence and risk factors of hypertension among women in a rural community of Maharashtra

Background: There are very few epidemiological studies on the prevalence of hypertension and its risk factors among women in the rural population. This cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the same in a rural community. This study was carried out in a rural population of Maharashtra in a rural field practice area of a Medical college with which the author is affiliated. The present study is thus a novel effort to measure the burden related to hypertension and related sociodemographic factors in a rural setting among women aged >30 years. Materials and Methods: A random sample of 220 women of 30 years and above were selected from a rural area. The study participants were selected using simple random sampling technique using lottery method. Numbers were allotted to every individual. All the women were then listed. This became the sampling frame. An individual was taken as the sampling unit. The pre-tested pro forma was used to collect the data by trained doctors. Results: Maximum participants in the study were from age group 30–39 years (33.6%), followed by 40–49 years (23.2%). Mean and standard deviation (SD) of age among study participants was found to be 47.7 ± 13.4 years. A total of 155 (70.5%) of the study participants used tobacco in one or the other smokeless form. About 29.5% of the study participants never used tobacco in the lifetime. The most common form of smokeless tobacco consumption was Mishri (71.6%) followed by tobacco which was used by 27% of the participants. Supari was also consumed by few of the participants. About 51.4% of the participants consumed >5 g (World Health Organization recommended level) of salt per day. All the participants consumed extra salt in the form of pickle/papad/table salt over and above that consumed in meals. About 8.2% of the study participants were found to be underweight while 21.2% were overweight. 3.2% of the study participants were in Grade I obesity and only one (0.4%) was in morbid obesity category. 70% of the study participants who had waist-hip ratio ≤ 0.85, whereas 30% of them had ratio > 0.85. Nearly 52% of the study participants gave a positive family history of hypertension among first-degree relatives. Only 22 (68.7%) of those participants diagnosed with hypertension were taking antihypertensive drugs and nearly half of these participants 12 (54.5%) were taking regular medication. 34.1% of participants had systolic blood pressure (BP) >140 than mmHg (isolated systolic hypertension) while 37.2% had diastolic BP >90 mmHg (isolated diastolic hypertension). The mean systolic BP calculated was 130 mmHg with SD 20.7 with 95% confidence interval (CI) of mean to be 127.5–132.8 mmHg, whereas diastolic BP was 83 mmHg with SD 11.1 with 95% CI of mean to be 81.7–84.6 mmHg. The overall prevalence of hypertension among the study participants was calculated to be 23.6% with 95% CI to be 18.2–26.8 mmHg. Conclusion: Prevalence of systolic hypertension in rural community was 34.1% and of diastolic hypertension 37.2% with an overall prevalence of 23.6%. Significant associations were found between the presence of hypertension and various sociodemographic variables using Chi-square test. Furthermore, there was a significant association between hypertension and consumption of smokeless tobacco, low physical activity level.

The Selection of Death Place Among Patients Receiving Hospital-Based Palliative Care Service in Taiwan.

To analyze the selection of a place to die and its related factors in patients who received hospice shared care service in Taiwan. This study included patients who received hospice shared care service in a metropolitan hospital as the research participants. A total of 172 questionnaires were collected, and 146 of them were used as valid samples for analysis. This study applied the multivariate logistic regression analysis to assess the significance of independent variables associated with the selection of place of death. The results revealed that 52.6% of the patients select hospital as the place to end their life, while 43.8% of them select their home as the place of death. Furthermore, younger adult patients (<65), those who with a higher educational level (≥10 years), and those with a clear cognizance of the disease progression tended to select hospital as the place to spend their last days. The research disclosed that more patients with the hospice shared care service prefer hospital to their home as the place to die. In order to provide end-of-life care for patients with low cost and appropriate treatment, it is important to understand the related sociodemographic factors and the need of the patients to provide well-designed hospice/specialist palliative care regimen.

Socio-demographics of tax stamp compliance in Upper Denkyira East Municipal and Upper Denkyira West District in Ghana

PurposeThe purpose of the study is to analyse social and demographic factors that affect tax stamp compliance in Upper Denkyira East Municipal and Upper Denkyira West District in Ghana.Design/methodology/approachThe study adopted a cross-sectional survey design to sample 783 micro-taxpayers through the use of multi-stage sampling technique. Primary data were collected from micro-taxpayers by using a structured interview. Ordered logit regression model was used to regress the extent of tax stamp compliance on socio-demographic factors in relation to tax stamp cases in the study area.FindingsThe study found that occupational association status, location, gender, type of business operated, age, level of education and household size are significant predictors of tax stamp compliance in the study area.Originality/valueThe originality of the study is in twofold. First, the study dwells on extant literature on social and demographic factors of tax compliance in general and specifically applies them to a special kind of presumptive tax, tax stamp, in Ghana. The study is also considered as the first of its kind to perform rigorous statistical analysis of social and demographic factors in relation to tax compliance.

Infant Feeding Practices with Oral Health Implications among Suburban Mothers of Tanzania

Background: Behaviours around infants feeding influence both nutritive value and the detrimental effects of the infant feeding. Aim: The study aimed to determine infant feeding practices with implication to child’s oral health and examine the related socio-demographic factors. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study among mothers of the infants who were attending RCH clinics in suburban areas of northwest Tanzania. Cluster sampling technique was used to obtain the participants and a structured questionnaire was used to interview the mothers. Frequency distributions and cross-tabulations were used for analysis and reported as proportions and identified differences between the comparative socio-demographic categories. Results: Study involved 213 mother-infant pairs; infants’ mean age was 7.22 ± 3.48 months and 53.1% were female babies. Almost all (94.6 %) the infants were breastfed and 75.3% of infants under six months of age were exclusively breastfeeding. In infants age older than six months, 32.6% of mothers reported to have initiated complementary food before the baby turned six months and that sugar sweetened foods were mostly used (68.1%) complementary foods. Higher proportion of mothers who had secondary school education or beyond (43.4%) reported to have initiated complementary food before the recommended age than their counterparts. Mothers who were employed reported to mostly (74.5%) use sugar sweetened complementary foods as compared to unemployed mothers. Conclusion: Infants of this community were mostly breastfed and initiated complementary feeding earlier than recommended time. Employed mothers and those with secondary education or above tended to have unfavorably infant feeding practices than their comparative groups.

Double burden of diseases worldwide: coexistence of undernutrition and overnutrition-related non-communicable chronic diseases.

This systematic examination and meta-analysis examined the scope and variation of the worldwide double burden of diseases and identified related socio-demographic factors. We searched PubMed for studies published in English from January 1, 2000, through September 28, 2016, that reported on double disease burden. Twenty-nine studies from 18 high-income, middle-income and low-income countries met inclusion criteria and provided 71 obesity-undernutrition ratios, which were included in meta-regression analysis. All high-income countries had a much higher prevalence of obesity than undernutrition (i.e. all the obesity/undernutrition ratios >1); 55% of the ratios in lower middle-income and low-income countries were <1, but only 28% in upper middle-income countries. Meta-analysis showed a pooled obesity-undernutrition ratio of 4.3 (95% CI=3.1-5.5), which varied by country income level, subjects' age and over time. The average ratio was higher in high-income rather than that in lower middle-income and low-income countries (β [SE]=10.8 [2.6]), in adults versus children (7.1 [2.2]) and in data collected since 2000 versus before 2000 (5.2 [1.5]; all P values<0.05). There are considerable differences in the obesity versus undernutrition ratios and in their prevalence by country income level, age groups and over time, which may be a consequence of the cumulative exposure to an obesogenic environment.

Psychiatric Comorbidity among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Najaf Province

Background:Compared with several other chronic childhood disorders, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a serious and disabling group of neurodevelopmental disorders. Relatively little attention has been given to its early identification and comorbid psychiatric disorders especially in the Arab world.Objectives: The present study was conducted with the main aim to identify comorbid psychiatric disorders in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and to find out the sociodemographic factors in relation to ASD.Methods: The study was conducted from 1st January 2013 to 30th December 2013. Participants were clinically referred children aged 3–12 years (n = 100) at psychiatric unit of AL Hakeem General Hospital in Najaf. A semi-structured questionnaire included the various demographic and academic characteristics including age, gender, parental educational and occupational status etc. DSM-IV classifications were used for the primary diagnosis (ASD), while comorbid psychiatric disorders were assessed using a structured diagnostic interview, the structured clinical interview for DSM-IV, childhood diagnoses (KID-SCID). Statistical analysis was performed with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS).Results: The majority of the patients were aged 5–10 years. Statistically significant proportion of children diagnosed with an ASD was male who live in an urban area and had satisfactory family income with small family size, they also had well educated parents but their mother was housewife. Fifty-nine children with ASD (59%) were classified as having at least one comorbid psychiatric disorder. However, children with ASD had more comorbid internalizing disorders (39%) compared to comorbid externalizing disorders (ODD and/or CD) (20%). More specifically, children with ASD had higher rates of anxiety disorders (31%), but not mood disorders.Conclusions: This study confirms the frequent co-occurrence of ASD with other psychiatric disorders, so it is important for clinicians to always be aware of, and screen for, comorbidity, and to consider treatment for these comorbid disorders. In addition, more research is needed on the epidemiology of autism-related medical and psychiatric disorders and outcome.

Cigarette Smoking Experience and its related Socio-demographic and Environmental Risk Factors in High School Boy Students, Shiraz- Iran

Background: Several environmental and psychosocial risk factors are known for adolescent smoking as the single cause of preventable diseases and premature death. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of cigarette smoking, socio-demographic factors associated with cigarette smoking (age, education level, parents’ job, and family’s socioeconomic statues), and the role of family and friends in cigarette smoking by high school students.Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study which was conducted in Shiraz, Iran, 900 high school boy students (grades 9-11) were selected through multistage random cluster sampling. They responded a researcher designed anonymous questionnaire about smoking experiences of themselves- and their friends and family members. Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U test and Binary logistic regression analysis were used to analysis of the data, using the SPSS version 17.0.Results: The mean age of the participants was 16.11 (1.16) years and 19.7% of the students were ever smokers. Students’ higher educational grade (P=0.001), fathers’ lower education level (P=0.03), live with one parent or people other than parents (P=0.024), father’s, siblings’, and friends’ smoking, and family members’ cigarette smoking at home (P<0.001), were significantly related to the students’ smoking experience. Indeed, having smoker siblings was the strongest predictor of smoking among the students.Conclusion: Cigarette smoking is a public health concern in all families from different socio-economic status. Special attention to orphans and children of divorce, setting rules about cigarette smoking in families, monitoring and being aware of offspring’s and their friends’ behavior can be recommended.

Changing of family size and some sociodemographic-related factors in rural areas in the north of iran: Results of two cross-sectional studies from 2004 to 2013

Background: The population growth as a multifaceted factor is a controversial issue in Iran. The main aim of this study is to compare the population growth and some sociodemographic-related factors in the rural areas between 2004 and 2013 in the north of Iran. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive and cross-sectional study, sample size was estimated at a minimum of 2401 (with an accuracy of 0.01 and error < 0.05). These studies were carried out on 2816 and 2562 individuals in 2004 and 2013, respectively. The sampling was combinational, and 20 out of 118 villages were selected randomly. We collected the data from all families whose children were under the age of 5 years. Data were analysed using SPSS software version 18.0, and P< 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean and standard deviation in 2004 and 2013 was 4.86 &3177; 1.96 and 4.13 &3177; 1.34, respectively. Decreasing trend was statistically significant during the two studies (P < 0.001). The highest family size has been observed in Turkmen group with 5.41 and 4.44 numbers in 2004 and 2013, respectively. Family size was positively correlated with economic status (P = 0.001), but it was negative with educational levels. ANOVA showed a significant difference between education level and mean of family size (P = 0.001). Conclusion: Family size in Turkmen group was higher than that in Fars-native and Sistani groups. It had a significant decreasing trend during the 9-year study. Population growth has a positive correlation with economic status and negative correlation with mother's educational level.

Locomotor problems among rural elderly population in a District of Aligarh, North India.

Introduction:Locomotor functions decline with the age along with other physiological changes. This results in deterioration of the quality of life with decreased social and economic role in the society, as well as increased dependency, for the health care and other basic services. The demographic transition resulting in increased proportion of elderly may pose a burden to the health system.Objectives:To find the prevalence of locomotor problems among the elderly population, and related sociodemographic factors.Materials and Methods:The study was a community-based cross-sectional study done at field practice area of Rural Health Training Centre, JN Medical College, AMU, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India. A sample of 225 was drawn from 1018 elderly population aged 60 years and above using systematic random sampling with probability proportionate to size. Sociodemographic characteristics were obtained using pretested and predesigned questionnaire. Locomotor problems were assessed using the criteria used by National Sample Survey Organization. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Chi-square test was used to test relationship of locomotor problems with sociodemographic factors. P <0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results:The prevalence of locomotor problems among the elderly population was 25.8%. Locomotor problems were significantly associated with age, gender, and working status whereas no significant association with literacy status and marital status was observed.Conclusion:The study concluded that approximately one-fourth of the elderly population suffered from locomotor problems. The sociodemographic factors related to locomotor problems needs to be addressed properly to help them lead an independent and economically productive life.

Factors affecting HPV vaccine acceptance in west Austria: Do we need to revise the current immunization scheme?

BackgroundAustria introduced a school-based gender-neutral human papillomavirus (HPV) immunization program in February 2014. In order to assure high coverage, factors influencing acceptance of the vaccine need to be identified. In this study we aim to assess parents’ attitude and related socio-demographic factors in relation to the newly implemented gender-neutral, school-based HPV Immunization program. MethodsParents of 4th grade school children in 20 randomly selected primary schools were asked to fill out questionnaires on socio-demographic factors and on the level of information and attitude towards HPV infection and HPV vaccine. ResultsA total of 439 parents with 449 vaccine eligible children participated in the study. Fifty nine percent of vaccine eligible girls and 51.8% of eligible boys received the first dose of the vaccine. Fear of side effects and child being too young for the vaccine were the most commonly cited reasons by parents electing not to let child receive the vaccine. Children who had received other school-based vaccines have more than fifteen times higher probability of receiving HPV vaccine. To have received HPV-related information from physicians positively influenced vaccine acceptance (OR (95% CI)=1.60 (1.06–2.43)). Higher paternal (fathers’) educational status significantly increased the chances of a male child to be HPV vaccinated (OR (95% CI)=2.45 (1.29–4.78)). ConclusionDespite the efforts to provide HPV vaccine free-of-costs and as a school-based program, the study found that a significant proportion of vaccine eligible children failed to receive the vaccine. Involvement front line physicians and men with higher educational status may be utilised by public health policy makers in the effort to increase awareness. For a better acceptability of the vaccine, there is a need to consider lifting the age of “eligibility” for the school-based vaccination program.

Prevalence and Socio-Demographic Determinants of Tobacco, Alcohol, Substance Use and Drug Misuse in General Population in Turkey.

The aim of the current study is to determine prevalence ratios of tobacco, alcohol, substance use and drug misuse in a large scale sample of general population and recognize related socio-demographic factors. The study was based on a cross-sectional survey conducted with a nationally representative sample of 8045 individuals with face-to-face, in-house interviews implemented by a trained team of interviewers. Life-time prevalences of tobacco, alcohol, substance use and drug misuse are 51.8%, 28.3%, 2.8% and 10.5% respectively. Age, gender, education level and marital status are important socio-demographic determinants for tobacco, alcohol use and drug misuse. Income level is an important determinant for alcohol and substance use. Tobacco, alcohol, substance use and drug misuse are significant health concerns in Turkey. Socio-demographic status is an important determinant of several aspects of tobacco, alcohol, substance use and drug misuse and should therefore be evaluated carefully to develop effective protective and preventive strategies.

Epidemiological study of socio demographic factors in relation to depression among the elderly people in a rural area of Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, India

BACKGROUND: Population ageing is a major global demographic trend in the twenty-first century and is progressing at a rapid phase in developing countries. Depression is a common mental disorder in the old age and it continues to be an under-recognized and undertreated disorder particularly in rural areas. The main objective of the study was to assess the prevalence of depression among elderly persons living rural area and to determine the factors influencing it so that appropriate preventive measures can be recommended. Methods: Community based cross sectional study was undertaken in of Chittoor District in Andhra Pradesh state. Data was collected regarding socio-demographic profile and depression by using a semi structured and pretested questionnaire & analyzed using SPSS software. Results: Of the 451 subjects who participated in the study, the overall prevalence of depression among the studied population was 38.8%.Females with depression (47.5%) were more, compared to males (32%). Depression among 60-69 years age group people was more (44.5%) than remaining age groups. Depression was high among people who were alone like widowed, divorced, illiterate, poor socio economic status. Conclusions: There is high prevalence of depression and is significantly associated with various socio demographic factors considered in the study. Language: en

An epidemiological study of cataract among elderly population in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India

Background: Cataract is one of the major causes of avoidable blindness in India. The burden of cataract among the elderly population needs to be assessed therefor, the study was planned to find the prevalence of cataract among the elderly population, and related socio-demographic factors. Methods: The study was a community-based cross-sectional study done at field practice area of rural health training centre and urban health training centre, J N Medical College, AMU, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India. A sample of 550 was taken from the registered elderly population aged 60 years and above using systematic random sampling with PPS. Socio- demographic characteristics was obtained using pretested and predesigned questionnaire. Cataract was identified with the help of torch light examination of lens. Data was analysed using SPSS version 20. Tests of proportion (Wald’s method to calculate confidence interval) and chi-square test was used. P value <0.05 was considered as significant. Results: The prevalence of cataract in the study population was 72.1% (95% CI- 68.3%, 75.8%) which was significantly associated with age, marital status, type of family & working status. Conclusions: The study concluded that approx. three- fourth of elderly population had cataract which was significantly associated with various socio- demographic factors. Therefore, these factors need to be addressed to reduce the burden of cataract among elderly population.