Sociodemographic Parameters Research Articles

Anxiety, aggression and alcohol consumption over six months among Poles in early adulthood – The follow-up study

Aim of the studyThere are many studies about mental health during periods of various epidemics. In this study, it was decided to find how the studied parameters changed during six months in 2020.Subject or material and methodsA total of 105 results were obtained from respondents who met all inclusion criteria for the study. 84 people (80.00%) are women and 21 (20.00%) are men. The study included socio-demographic parameters and psychological scales: AUDIT — to determine alcohol consumption, GAD-7 — to measure the anxiety and the Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire.ResultsAnxiety levels decreased in the entire study population and some subgroups. Higher levels of anxiety were found among male respondents and health professionals. Increased levels of physical aggression were observed among respondents from small cities. A decrease in hostility was found among rural residents. A decrease in verbal aggression was noticed among those with secondary education. Increased levels of physical aggression were observed only among men, while verbal aggression and hostility were observed among those with secondary education. Higher alcohol consumption occurred among young people.DiscussionThe literature provides a wealth of data on various aspects of the mental health including aggression, anxiety and alcohol consumption. Our results are mostly in line with these, and show some features of adaptation in society.ConclusionsReductions in anxiety intensity may suggest some adaptive changes in society. Healthcare professionals are characterised by elevated anxiety levels relative to other respondents.

Nursing faculty readiness to teach online: a survey of nursing educators from Saudi Arabia and the UK

BackgroundNursing Faculty’s readiness to teach online has been recognized as a critical prerequisite for effective online teaching.AimTo examine the Nursing Faculty’s level of readiness to teach online among a sample of nursing educators from Saudi Arabia and the UK.MethodsA convenient sample of 152 (46%) Nursing Faculty from five universities across Saudi Arabia and the UK completed Part 2 of The Faculty Readiness to Teach Online (FRTO)’ survey between February – June 2021. Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis One-Way Analysis of Variance tests were used to examine the differences in the average median scores of the participants’ responses across selected independent variables.ResultsNursing Faculty from Saudi Arabia universities have scored significantly higher Median score than their British counterparts on the Course Design subscale (z=-2.6, p = 0.01) and Time Management subscale (z=-4.403, p = 0.001), and Nursing Faculty who completed a training course before they can teach online have also scored significantly higher median score than those who didn’t on the same two subscales respectively (X2 = 6.15, df = 2, p = 0.05), (X2 = 12, df = 2, p = 0.002). Female Nursing Faculty scored significantly higher median score than male Nursing Faculty on the Course Communication subscale (z=-2.73,p = 0.006). Moreover, Nursing Faculty who mostly used asynchronous online teaching significantly scored the highest median score on the technical subscale (X2 = 8.64, df = 3, p = 0.03). The number of years of teaching online emerged as a key factor for defining the Nursing Faculty’s level of readiness to teach online. For example, those Nursing Faculty with 6 years and longer of online teaching experience have scored significantly higher median scores on in Course Communication (X2 = 23.4, df = 4, p = 0.00), Time Management (X2 = 13.2, df = 4, p = 0.01) and Technical (X2 = 10.13, df = 4, p = 0.008) subscales compared with those with less than 6 year of online teaching experience. Nursing Faculty across Saudi and British universities who teach on MSc program have scored significantly higher median scores than those who teach on other programs on all four subscales.ConclusionThe Nursing Faculty expressed a high level of competency in teaching online, with significant variations based on socio-demographic parameters. Future research needs to examine the factors that shape the Nursing Faculty’s readiness to teach online.

Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and Metabolic-Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD): A Longitudinal and Sustainable Analysis

Background: The rising prevalence of metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a significant health challenge, and the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) could play a key role. Aim: The aim is assess the impact of UPF consumption changes on the development and progression of MASLD in adults. Design: This is a longitudinal study to assess how changes in UPF consumption affect liver fat and MASLD parameters over 6 months in 70 participants. Methods: Dietary intake was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire, and foods were classified according to the NOVA system. Participants were divided into three groups based on UPF consumption changes: maximum (T1), medium (T2), and minimum reduction (T3). Fatty liver parameters were assessed with magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasonography. Mediterranean diet (Med-diet) adherence and sociodemographic parameters were also recorded. The General Linear Model was used to determine relationships between UPF consumption, fatty liver disease parameters, and diet. Results: Participants in T1 experienced a 7.7% reduction in intrahepatic fat content (IFC) compared to 2.6% in T3. T1 showed increased Med-diet adherence and decreased meat and sweets consumption. The energy intake decreased by 605.3 kcal/day in T1, while T3 showed an increase of 209.5 kcal/day. Conclusions: Reducing UPF consumption leads to a decrease in IFC, associated with high Med-diet adherence and low calorie intake. Adopting these dietary patterns aligns with global sustainability goals and could further benefit MASLD patients by addressing environmental challenges alongside improving liver health.

Relationship between cerebral blood flow velocities and sociodemographic characteristics of sickle cell anaemia children aged 2-16 years seen at federal teaching hospital Owerri

Background: Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is a chronic haemolytic state associated with recurrent blood transfusions, infections and its attendant complications. The study compared the relationship between cerebral artery blood flow velocities (CBFV) and socio-demographic parameters (age, sex, socioeconomic status and age at diagnosis) of male and female SCA children aged 2-16 years seen at Federal Teaching Hospital Owerri, Imo state. Methods: Structured questionnaire were used to obtain relevant bio-sociodemographic information’s from SCA children that attended the sickle cell specialist clinic of the hospital between April and September 2023.Later, Transcranial Doppler ultrasound scan was done for them. Results: A total of 102 subjects were screened within the study period. CBFV decreases with increasing age, 100% of those with abnormal CBFV were aged 2-6 years and 75% females. Majority of children with abnormal CBFV belonged to lower and middle socioeconomic class. Abnormal CBFV was found in 17.6% of subjects Conclusions: The prevalence of abnormal cerebral blood flow velocity in SCA children is 17.6% and majorily in younger age group. Identification of subjects at risk for a CVA helped in primary prevention by prompt therapy institution.

Patterns of Addiction in Chronic Skin Diseases: A Comparative Analysis of Addictions and Influencing Factors in Atopic Dermatitis and Psoriasis.

Addictions seem to be more frequent in atopic dermatitis and psoriasis patients than in the general population. This cross-sectional observational study comparatively evaluated substance-related and behavioural addictions in atopic dermatitis and psoriasis patients and analysed possible addiction patterns. From October 2023 to April 2024, 100 atopic dermatitis and 104 psoriasis patients at a German university hospital completed an anonymous questionnaire, including sociodemographic and health-related parameters, along with validated assessment tools for common addictions (smoking, gambling, alcohol, drugs, food, and internet). More psoriasis patients had at least 1 addiction (50.0% vs 39.0%), were more frequent daily smokers (34.6% vs 15.0%) and reported gambling more frequently than atopic dermatitis patients. No differences emerged regarding gambling addiction. Psoriasis patients showed higher body mass index, with 1.9% addicted to food. Atopic dermatitis patients were more vulnerable to pathological internet use (9.0% vs 2.9%). Low happiness was a risk factor for smoking in atopic dermatitis and for gambling and drug consumption in psoriasis patients. Low disease severity was associated with pathological alcohol in-take in psoriasis. Younger age emerged as a ubiquitous risk factor for drug consumption. Distinct addiction patterns in atopic dermatitis and psoriasis patients, influenced by age, happiness, and disease severity, should guide the development of education and screening strategies.

Mammography screening: Eliciting the voices of informed citizens.

Many medical organisations recommend continuing with existing mammography screening programmes but some recommend stopping or de-intensifying them. In Denmark women aged 50-69 are offered biennial mammograms free-of-charge. The aim of this study was to determine whether or not an informed public would recommend continuation of the Danish mammography screening programme, and to determine whether this recommendation was in line with what participants considered to be acceptable levels of mortality reduction and overdiagnosis. A Deliberative Poll on mammography screening was held online in Denmark and 89 citizens participated. They were representative of the general population on sociodemographic parameters, attitudes towards and knowledge of mammography screening. Participants studied a video about the programme and took part in an online citizens' assembly where they deliberated with peers and experts in the field. All participants answered a survey at four time points: at recruitment; after video information; after deliberation, and a month after the assembly. Questionnaire data revealed that many participants were influenced by the deliberative polling process as 36%, changed their recommendation afterwards. At recruitment, 72% of participants strongly supported the continuation of mammography screening. This proportion was lower after the presentation of video information (55%), after deliberation (65%), and a month after the assembly (58%). Interestingly, these changes in recommendation were not correlated to changes in knowledge. The proportion of participants who recommended continuation following what they stated were acceptable rates of mortality reduction and overdiagnosis rose from 21% at recruitment to 40% after information and deliberation. Most participants (60%), therefore, made a recommendation that was not in line with levels of mortality reduction and overdiagnosis that they felt were acceptable. After video information and deliberation participants were less supportive of the mammography screening programme compared to their immediate recommendation at the beginning of the process.

A Study on Socio-Demographic Determinants of Digital Financial Literacy in India

Digital financial literacy has emerged as a key driver for fostering financial inclusion in India. As India has been witnessing rapid digitalization of financial services, digital financial literacy has become an imperative because of it’s transformative potential to spread awareness, knowledge and influence user behaviors towards adoption of digital financial services. The purpose of this study was to investigate relationships between various socio-economic and demographic factors and digital financial literacy variables in both rural and urban areas of India. The study relied on a mix of quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews from the respondents belonging to urban and rural areas spread across eight districts of India. The primary data collected underwent several statistical analyses, including the Chi-Square Test, Cramer’s V, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis to examine the relationships between socio-demographic factors and digital financial literacy. The study revealed a strong positive correlation between education, age and income with digital financial literacy, underscoring their substantial impact. In contrast, other socio-demographic factors like occupation and social stratification were found to have lesser influence on the digital financial literacy in view of their weaker correlations. The study revealed that digital financial literacy is gender neutral considering negligible correlation between gender and variables of digital financial literacy. The existence of digital divide between urban and rural areas was evident in the study as the rural population lags in digital financial literacy to their urban counterparts. Regression analysis further validates the predictive significance of age, education, and annual family income on digital financial literacy. The earlier research studies and available literature emphasize mainly supply side factors of digital financial literacy viz. measures taken by Governments, Regulators and Financial institutions. This study, focusing on demand side factors, put special emphasis on social and demographic variables and their degree of influence on digital financial literacy. Key findings emerged from the study identify the socio-demographic factors influencing digital financial literacy and offer insights for policy makers to identify gaps in financial education and design targeted strategies based on socio-demographic parameters for broadening digital financial literacy.

Trends in Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae Urinary Tract Infections and Antibiotic Resistance over a 5-Year Period in Southeastern Gabon.

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a substantial global health concern, exacerbated by the widespread use of antibiotics and leading to the development of multidrug-resistant strains. The aim of this study was to analyze the temporal patterns of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae UTIs and antibiotic resistance, taking into account various sociodemographic, clinical, and climatic factors within the study population. Methods: A total of 3026 urine samples from patients of all ages were analyzed over a period of five years by standard microbiological methods. Climatic data for the study area were also collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to measure the impact of sociodemographic, clinical and climatic parameters on the occurrence of UTIs. Results: The study showed a 31.4% prevalence of UTIs among the population. Notably, there was a significant increase in pyelonephritis between 2019 and 2023 (p < 0.01). Furthermore, a significant association was found between cystitis and the long dry season, as well as the short rainy season. Furthermore, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae exhibited resistance to beta-lactams, quinolones, and co-trimoxazole. The resistance of Escherichia coli isolated from cystitis to nitrofurantoin showed a significant increase over the years (p < 0.04). Principal component analysis (PCA) suggested that humidity may play a role in the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Conclusions: UTIs show variability according to various sociodemographic, clinical, and climatic factors, with a higher risk of complications seen in individuals aged ≤ 17 years. It is important to note that cases of pyelonephritis have been increasing over time, with a noticeable seasonal variation. This study suggests that humidity may play a role in promoting antibiotic multidrug resistance in Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Stimulation of future thinking in stimulant–depending patients using questionnaire–based structured interview

INTRODUCTION: Impaired future thinking (FT) a human ability to imagine and comprehend images and scenarios of the personal future may contribute to the severity of psychoactive substance dependence. Spontaneous mental images of the impacts of using psychoactive substances and/or of one’s own death (‘flash-forwards’), as well as impaired arbitrary modeling of future images (for example, overgeneralization and lack of reflection) interfere with adherence to treatment and stability of remission in addictions. AIM: To evaluate the influence of FT-activating intervention on treatment outcomes in patients with narcotic psychostimulant dependence. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A randomized prospective controlled clinical trial conducted in 2021–2023 involved 112 inpatients with stimulant dependence (F15.2). Of them, the main group consisted of 56 patients (age 24.0 [21.0; 27.0] years; 30.4% of men), who underwent FT stimulation in the form of semi-structured interview based on the Russian pilot version of the Impact of Future Events Scale (IFES). The control group consisted of 56 patients (age 23.5 [22.0; 26.0] years; 39.3% of men) who received a standard drug addiction conversation of equal duration. The treatment result parameters included the score on the Stages of Change Readiness and Treatment Eagerness Scale (SOCRATES); duration of remission, participation in long-term therapy, in outpatient rehabilitation, inpatient rehabilitation, confirmation of the fact of prescheduled discharge, infringement of regime, incarcerations. The test was conducted upon admission and after discharge. Hospitals stay period — 21 days, follow-up period — 6 months. RESULTS: At the hospitalization stage, the groups did not differ in socio-demographic and main clinical parameters (p 0.05). SOCRATES scores were higher in the control group 49.0 [47.0; 49.0] versus 48.0 [47.0; 49.0] (p = 0.040). At the stage of re-test before discharge, the main group showed an improvement in motivation according to SOCRATES and significantly outperformed the control group: 67.0 [65.3; 68.0] versus 50.0 [48.0; 53.8] points (p 0.001). The main group had a longer duration of remission — 3.3 [0.5; 5.4] months versus 0.5 [0.4; 1.0] months (p = 0.001); fewer prescheduled discharges — 12.5% versus 50.0% (p = 0.001); more frequent visits to long-term therapy — 30.4% versus 8.9% (p = 0.01) and outpatient rehabilitation — 21.4% versus 1.8% (p = 0.001) respectively. CONCLUSIONS: FT-activating intervention directed to stimulating reflection of anxious and positive aspects of the personal future, contributes to increase in duration of remission in the catamnesis, increases motivation and adherence to treatment in patients with addiction to narcotic psychostimulants.

Association between simple, combined lipid markers and 20-year cumulative incidence of type 2 diabetes: the ATTICA cohort study (2002–2022)

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to evaluate the association between simple, combined lipid biomarkers, and 20-year cumulative incidence of new type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among adults participating in the ATTICA cohort study (2002–2022).MethodsThe present analysis included data from 2000 individuals free of T2DM at baseline (age 43 ± 13 years; 51% women). Sociodemographic, anthropometric, lifestyle, clinical, and biochemical parameters were collected at baseline and follow-up examinations; combined lipid markers were evaluated.ResultsThe 20-year cumulative incidence of T2DM was 26.3% (95%CI 24.4, 28.3%). All, simple and combined lipid markers were independently associated with new T2DM onset. The accuracy of simple and combined markers was approximately 75%, without any significant differences between simple and combined indices. The additive correct classification gain of lipid markers to glucose metabolism indices on 20-year new T2DM cumulative incidence varied between 0.9% for cardiometabolic index to 10.6% for LDL-cholesterol.ConclusionsLipid profile is associated with the long-term onset of T2DM. Evaluated through simple or combined markers, lipid profiles can be utilized for identifying and improving risk stratification in individuals at high risk for T2DM, while also enhancing the effectiveness of primary prevention measures and public health strategies.

Meeting clean air targets could reduce the burden of hypertension among women of reproductive age in India.

Air pollution is one of the leading risk factors for hypertension globally. However, limited epidemiological evidence exists in developing countries, specifically with indigenous health data and for fine particulate matter (PM2.5) composition. Here, we addressed this knowledge gap in India. Using a logistic regression model, we estimated the association between hypertension (systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg) prevalence among women of reproductive age (WRA, 15-49 years) from the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey and long-term exposure to PM2.5 and its composition, after adjusting for confounders. We also explored the moderating effects of socioeconomic indicators through a multiplicative interaction with PM2.5. Hypertension prevalence increased by 5.2% (95% uncertainty interval: 4.8%-5.7%) for every 10 μg/m3 increase in ambient PM2.5 exposure. Significant moderating effects were observed among smokers against nonsmokers and for various sociodemographic parameters. Among PM2.5 species, every interquartile range increase in black carbon (BC) and sulphate exposure was significantly associated with higher odds of hypertension than for organic carbon and dust. We estimated that achieving the National Clean Air Program target and World Health Organization air quality guidelines can potentially reduce hypertension prevalence by 2.42% and 4.21%, respectively. Our results demonstrate that increasing ambient PM2.5 exposure is associated with a higher prevalence of hypertension among WRA in India. The risk is not uniform across various PM2.5 species and is higher with BC and sulphate. Achieving clean air targets can substantially reduce the hypertension burden in this population.

Development and Performance Analysis of Machine Learning Methods for Predicting the Occurrence of Constipation and its Risk Factors Among College-aged Girls

The present study sought to determine which model was most useful for predicting functional constipation (FC) in college-aged students by examining the applicability of multiple models and evaluating the forecasting accuracy of prediction methods, including regression-based models and machine learning models. This observational descriptive study involved 300 college girls from Kolkata, West Bengal, India, who were randomly chosen using social media (Linkedin,WhatsApp and Face book) and ranged in age from 18 to 25 years. The survey was carried out using an online, standard questionnaire that had been pre-tested. The obtained data were entered into a Microsoft Excel Worksheet (Redwoods, Washington, USA: Microsoft) and reviewed for elimination errors.19 attributes were selected for prediction study. Weka version 3.8.0 software was used for predictive modeling, performance analysis, and the building of FC prediction system. The predictive models were then developed and contrasted using 5 different models as a classifier. We divided our data into training and test datasets, which comprised 70% and 30% of the total sample, respectively, at random for each investigation. Out of 300 occurrences, 96.00 % were correctly classified, while only 4 % were wrongly classified, with a Kappa value of 0.875, and a root mean squared error of 0.19. The model's accuracy was 96.3% weighted precision, 96% true positives, 0.05% false positives, 0.961 F measure, and 0.994ROC(receiver operating characteristic curve).Here 6 different evaluators were used and surprisingly they all predict Bristol's Stool consistency Scale as the number 1 predictor of FC among college girls. Again ‘Pain and discomfort in abdomen’ remains second predictor according to all selected evaluators. Thus, it can be confirmed that ‘Bristol's Stool consistency Scale’ and the ‘Pain and discomfort in abdomen’ are the two significant predictor of FC among college going girls. This machine learning model-based automated approach for predicting functional constipation will assist medical professionals in identifying younger generations who are more likely to experience constipation. Additionally, predictions can be made quickly and efficiently using sociodemographic and morbidity parameters. For further follow-up and care, at-risk patients can be referred to consultant physicians. This will lessen the burden of gastrointestinal-related morbidity and mortality among the younger population.

Surgeon Age, Years in Practice, and Location of Training Are Associated With Patient Satisfaction.

Patient satisfaction is associated with communication-related measures, empathy, and meeting expectations. However, it is not clear what surgeon characteristics are associated with patient satisfaction. As such, the purpose of this study was to investigate the surgeon sociodemographic, training, and practice parameters that may be associated with patient satisfaction. A retrospective study of patient satisfaction scores was conducted from 7,856 patients who rated 62 orthopaedic surgeons in 2021 within a single hospital system. Three questions from the National Research Corporation survey were used to assess patient satisfaction. Bivariate analyses and multiple linear regression analyses were performed. For chi-square analyses, patient satisfaction scores were recoded into either above the mean or below/equal to the mean score. Overall, 57 male (91.9%) and five female orthopaedic surgeons (8.1%) participated. Mean age was 49.3 ± 9.9 years. Median years in practice was 14 years (range, 1 to 38 years). More years in practice was associated with lower patient satisfaction scores for careful listening (P = 0.048), likelihood to recommend the provider (P = 0.021), and total score (P = 0.029). Older surgeon age was associated with lower total scores (P = 0.039). Surgeons with 30 or more years of practice were more likely to be recommended (P = 0.030). Surgeons who trained in the Northeast for fellowship and/or residency were more likely to be recommended. Older surgeon age and training in the Northeast were associated with higher patient satisfaction. Older surgeon age and fellowship and/or residency training in the Northeast were associated with higher patient satisfaction, whereas 30 or more years of practice was associated with lower patient satisfaction. In bivariate analysis, female surgeons and foot and ankle training were associated with higher patient satisfaction, whereas spine surgeons had lower patient satisfaction scores. These findings suggest that patient-centered communication, patient-surgeon concordance, and appropriate help may improve patient satisfaction. Level IV.

Socio-Demographic Determinants of Mortality in Bangladesh: A Time Series Analysis

Understanding the factors influencing the death rate in Bangladesh is essential for effective policy-making and addressing demographic challenges. This study aims to examine both the short-term dynamics and long-term equilibrium relationships between socio-demographic factors and the death rate of Bangladesh over a given period. It focuses on four key factors: adolescence fertility rate (AFR), life expectancy rate at birth, birth rate, and infant mortality rate (IMR). Taking an annual time series dataset from 1975 to 2021 from the World Bank (WB), the study uses the Johansen co-integration test, vector error correction model (VECM), and Granger causality test to analyze the relationships between these factors and death rate. The findings reveal short-term and long-term equilibrium links between the socio-demographic parameters and death rate. A substantial negative correlation exists between death rate and AFR and life expectancy. Additionally, a positive correlation is observed between the death rate and birth rate, and IMR. These findings provide valuable insights for decision-makers to address the death rate in Bangladesh, bridging a research gap and guiding effective socio-demographic policies. International Journal of Statistical Sciences, Vol. 24(2), November, 2024, pp 35-54

Hospital care trajectories of older adults with cancer and the associated clinical profiles.

The longitudinal hospital care experiences of older adults with cancer, from the treatment decision-making process until their end of life, remain unexplored. We examined the hospital care trajectories of these patients and identified associated clinical determinants. We linked the ELCAPA multicenter cohort study (patients aged ≥70 with a solid tumor and having been referred for a geriatric assessment between 2012 and 2019) and the Greater Paris University Hospitals' clinical data warehouse. Individual care trajectories, defined as series of consultations, hospital admissions (in day, acute, or rehabilitation units), and emergency room (ER) visits, were clustered using multichannel sequence analysis. Cluster membership determinants were identified among socio-demographic, oncological, and geriatric parameters by logistic regression analysis. Seven hundred seven patients (median age: 82; metastatic cancer: 45.2%; 10 998 care episodes) were included. Four trajectory clusters were identified: cluster A (n = 149, 21.1%) with in-hospital surgical trajectories, cluster B (n = 198, 28.0%) with outpatient care trajectories with chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy, cluster C (n = 302, 42.7%) without any hospital cancer treatments, and cluster D (n = 58, 8.2%) with mostly chemotherapy and high hospital care consumption. Cluster belonging determinants included metastatic status and cancer site (for cluster A); cognition, mobility, and mood status (unimpaired parameters for cluster B and impaired for cluster C); and younger age (for cluster D). While highlighting varied hospital care experiences among older patients with cancer, we found that age remains an independent determinant of chemotherapy-dominant care trajectories.

Knowledge, attitude, and diabetes self-care among individuals at high-risk of diabetes-related blindness in Bangladesh: a cross-sectional study

Background/AimAdequate knowledge, attitude, and self-care practice (KAP) are paramount in reducing diabetes complications. This study examined diabetes-related KAP in individuals who have been previously reported to be at a higher risk of blindness such as those on insulin treatment or with a longer (>6 years) duration of diabetes in Bangladesh.MethodsSix hundred community-dwelling individuals (mean age = 52.7±11.6 years) who had been diagnosed with diabetes by their doctor were interviewed. A semi-structured questionnaire obtained self-reported information about diabetes-related KAP, duration, treatment of diabetes, and sociodemographic parameters including age, gender, and education level. Data were collected using a purposive sample technique and analyzed using Fischer’s exact test or independent samples t-tests.ResultsThere were 271 males (45.2%) and 329 (54.8%) females. Of the total participants (mean diabetes duration = 6.6±6.2 years), 36.5% had diabetes for more than the median duration of 6 years, 80.7% were receiving insulin or insulin combined with tablets (insulin group) and the remaining 19.3% were on tablet only and/or diet control (non-insulin group). One-fifth (19.8%) of all the participants did not consider diabetes a serious disease, 31.3% were unaware that uncontrolled diabetes can cause blindness, 40.5% had never had their eyes tested for diabetic retinopathy and 41.5% stated that they would not attend diabetic retinopathy screening until their eyesight became worse. Among those in the insulin group, 42.1% reported being unaware that smoking may be harmful to diabetes compared to 30.2% of those in the non-insulin group (p= 0.02). Additionally, 64.7% of those in the insulin group were unaware that a diabetic retinal screening is different from a routine eye test for spectacles, compared to 44.8% in the non-insulin group (p< 0.001). Sixty-two percent of participants with diabetes duration of more than 6 years reported that diabetes management was a shared responsibility between the doctor and the patient compared to 48.3% with a shorter duration (p< 0.001). Those with a longer duration of diabetes (>6 years) also reported forgetting to take their medication more often than those with a shorter duration (p = 0.02). Twenty-one percent of participants with a duration of diabetes longer than six years had checked their eyes within the previous year compared to 63.5% of those with a shorter duration of diabetes (p< 0.001).ConclusionIndividuals on insulin treatment demonstrated poorer knowledge and awareness of diabetes and diabetes eye screening. Those with a longer diabetes duration exhibited poorer self-care practices, particularly not taking the medication regularly, and neglecting diabetic retinal checkups. These issues need to be addressed in designing targeted educational interventions to prevent blindness from uncontrolled diabetes in the high-risk groups in Bangladesh.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the clinical features of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: an observational cross-sectional study.

The presence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and COVID-19 infection is a detrimental combination for patients and can cause negative clinical consequences. The investigation aimed to compare sociodemographic and clinical parameters of COPD individuals hospitalized for exacerbations before and at the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. An observational cross-sectional study including 222 patients with COPD was conducted in two stages: a survey and assessment of clinical and laboratory data of patients hospitalized from September 2022 to March 2023 (n=98) and processing of the medical histories of patients with COPD who received hospital treatment in 2017 and 2018 (n=124). A comparative analysis of patients who received inpatient treatment for COPD showed that the frequency of patients with Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) I was half as high after the COVID-19 pandemic, whereas the individuals with GOLD IV were more frequent during the same period (p<0.05). Multiple regression analysis proved the effects of smoking status and previous COVID-19 infection on the health status of patients with COPD according to COPD Assessment Test data (p<0.05). There was an increase in the frequency of comorbid pathologies in the post-COVID period: hypertension, coronary heart disease, gastrointestinal diseases, anemia (p<0.05), and other diseases. This study highlights the significant influence of the COVID-19 infection on people with COPD, which manifested as impaired lung function and an increased incidence of comorbidities.

Clinical and Analytical Presentation of Central Precocious Puberty: A 20-Year Cross-Sectional Study

Objectives − This study aims to compare the clinical and analytical presentation of Central precocious puberty (CPP), considering age.Methods − An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted on children diagnosed with CPP at a level III hospital, between January 2002 and April 2022. Clinical, auxological, sociodemographic, laboratory, and imaging parameters were analyzed.Results − Out of the 52 children studied, the majority were girls (N=44). The median age of puberty onset in girls was 6.79 years and the mean age at first consultation of 8.13 years, with a significantly lower age at hospital referral (7.65 years; P=0.045) compared to boys. Idiopathic etiology was predominant in both. In girls, breast development appeared at older mean ages (P=0.009), while pubic hair growth and accelerated growth were associated with younger ages at puberty onset (P=0.021; P=0.018, respectively). Basal and peak levels of gonadotropin hormones were higher in girls, although not statistically significant. In girls, age at puberty onset correlated negatively with standard deviation of body mass index (P=0.023), while age at first consultation correlated positively with bone age (P&lt;0.001), and was associated with younger ages at Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone stimulation test (P=0.020).Conclusion − This study provides innovative and relevant findings that enhance understanding of CPP presentation according to age, thereby improving clinical management of this condition.

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF COVID-19 PATIENTS DURING DELTA AND OMICRON WAVES OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC: AN EXPERIENCE FROM RURAL TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN NORTH INDIA

Objective: In this study, an effort has been made to find out possible clinical parameters that may have played role in differences in the disease outcome in the delta and omicron waves. Methods: This is a retrospective observational study conducted at a rural tertiary care center of North India. We recorded sociodemographic and clinicopathological parameters of the admitted patients during delta and omicron waves in India. The outcome measures were demographic, baseline clinical, disease severity, ICU admissions and hospital mortality. Results: In our study, 1731 patients were tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, out of which 16 patients were admitted during the omicron wave and 878 admissions during the delta wave. In delta wave, the ratio of male to female was 1:2 and in omicron wave, it was 1:3. There were 271 deaths in delta wave and 2 deaths in omicron wave. A significantly lower number of admissions were noted during omicron wave (p&lt;0.001). Patients without previous history of COVID-19 and unvaccinated status had significantly higher admission (p&lt;0.001). The admission rate among comorbid patients was also significantly low in the omicron wave (p&lt;0.001). 251 patients had one or more comorbidities and were mostly in severe (13.4%) or critical (88.4%) conditions in delta wave while among 13 comorbid patients in omicron wave, 7.7% were in severe and 15.4% were in critical condition. Conclusion: The hospital admissions were very low in comparison to delta wave. During delta wave, the degree of severity and number of deaths were also very high.

BIOS-03. CLINICAL PRESENTATION, MANAGEMENT, AND OUTCOME IN NEUROLYMPHOMATOSIS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND ANALYSIS OF INDIVIDUAL PATIENT DATA FROM 459 CASES

Abstract BACKGROUND Neurolymphomatosis (NL) refers to lymphomatous infiltration of the peripheral nervous system (PNS). NL diagnosis and treatment are challenging given the broad differential diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy, the lack of larger cohorts and the subsequent unavailability of prognostic factors or consensus therapy. This study aimed to define characteristics and prognostic factors of NL. METHODS A systematic review of the literature (2004-2023) was performed using PubMed and Scopus databases and reported following PRISMA guidelines. Clinical, radiological, pathological and outcome information were extracted. Multivariable survival analyses were performed using Cox proportional hazard models. RESULTS A total of 459 NL cases from 264 studies were accumulated. NL was the first manifestation of malignancy (primary NL) in 197 patients. PNS relapse of known non-Hodgkin lymphoma (secondary NL) occurred in 262 cases after a median 12 months. NL predominantly presented with rapidly deteriorating, asymmetric painful polyneuropathy. Infiltrated structures included peripheral nerves (56%), nerve roots (52%), plexus (33%) and cranial nerves (32%). Diagnosis was established at a median of 3 months after symptom onset with substantial delays in primary NL. It mainly relied on PNS biopsy or FDG-PET, which carried high diagnostic yields (&amp;gt; 90%). Post mortem diagnoses were rare (3%). Most cases were classified as B-cell (90%) lymphomas. Tumor-directed therapy was administered in 96% of patients and typically consisted of methotrexate or rituximab-based polychemotherapy. Median overall survival was 18 months. Primary NL without concurrent systemic disease outside the nervous system (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.44; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.25-0.78; p = 0.005), performance status (ECOG &amp;lt; 2, HR: 0.30; 95% CI: 0.18-0.52; p &amp;lt; 0.0001), and rituximab-based treatment (HR: 0.46; 95% CI: 0.28-0.73; p = 0.001) were identified as favorable prognostic markers on multivariable analysis when adjusting for clinical and sociodemographic parameters. CONCLUSIONS Advances in neuroimaging modalities, particularly FDG-PET, facilitate NL diagnosis and offer a high diagnostic yield. Rituximab-based therapy improves NL outcome. Findings may assist clinicians in early recognition, prognostic stratification, and treatment of NL.