Sociodemographic Correlates Research Articles

Population-based cross-sectional survey of cervical cancer screening prevalence and socio-demographic correlates in Bangladeshi women.

Cervical cancer, albeit preventable, is the second-most deadly gynecological cancer in developing nations. Little is known about cervical cancer among Bangladeshi women. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of cervical cancer screening and demographic correlates to identify potential variabilities in screening rates among different demographic groups and regions. This study used secondary data from the WHO STEPS 2018 Survey. We used Bayesian regression to perform the bivariate analyses between the outcome and each explanatory factor, as it generates more acceptable results and improves parameter estimates. The top-ranked socio-demographic factors were identified using a two-step cluster analysis. This method determines the relevance of predictor variables and automatically establishes the number of clusters. The prevalence of Bangladeshi women who had ever been screened for cervical cancer was 6.2%. In the adjusted model, women with the following socio-demographic factors had a higher likelihood of developing cervical cancer: being 18-29 years old (AOR = 3.3, 95% CI: 0.24, 15.27) or 45-59 years old (AOR = 2.8, 95% CI: 1.22, 6.0), currently married (AOR = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.36, 3.70), and employed (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.40, 4.06). Women in the Barisal division were found to have higher odds of being screened for cervical cancer (AOR = 21, 95% CI: 0.66, 121.97). Cluster analysis found residence status predisposes women to cervical cancer screening. There is a significant potential for substantial reductions in the burden of cervical cancer in Bangladesh by strengthening the application of cervical cancer screening. Future studies should examine how socioeconomic status, culture, and healthcare access affect cervical cancer screening trends for different divisions in Bangladesh. An independent national cancer registry is urgently needed to evaluate screening trends and outcomes.

Sociodemographic and lifestyle correlates of energy drinks consumption in Serbian adolescents

Abstract Background and aim Energy drinks (EDs) are non-alcoholic beverages that typically contain high levels of caffeine and sugar in combination with other ingredients known to have stimulant properties. Although there is growing evidence of the harmful physiological and psychological effects of energy drinks their popularity has increased during the past decade. While researchers point out variety of health consequences, data on prevalence and correlates of EDs consumption are scarce. Aim of the study was to determine prevalence of EDs consumption and to investigate sociodemographic and lifestyle correlates of EDs consumption among adolescents in Serbia. Study design Secondary analysis of data obtained from 2022 Health Behaviour in School-aged Children Study (HBSC) in Serbia. Study included 3962 students aged 11, 13 and 15 years. Students with missing values for one or more study variables were excluded from the analyses. Methods Multiple logistic analyses stratified by age and sex were performed to estimate the associations between consuming EDs and sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics. Results Overall, 15.6% of students consumed EDs more than once a week (16.2% of boys and 15.5% of girls) with highest percentage among 15-year-old students (20.3%). For both genders, the percentage of adolescents consuming ED more than once a week was higher among adolescents with lowest family affluence (21.9%), those consuming soft drinks daily (39.5%) and alcohol weekly (47.6%). In boys only, consuming ED several times a week was more frequent among adolescents having at least 60 min moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) daily than among those with lower levels of MVPA. Conclusions Different patterns of ED consumption were identified suggesting need for tailored interventions aimed at reducing ED consumption in adolescents. Key messages • Every fifth h 15-year-old student in Serbia consume EDs more than once a week. • Higher EDs consumption among physically active boys indicate need for targeting interventions that will address this issue.

Nicotine use in Polish adolescents and sociodemographic factors correlations - PolNicoYouth study

Abstract Background & aim Almost 36% of Polish smokers started their addiction before the age of 17. Polish youth exhibit a higher prevalence of e-cigarette use (29.5%) than traditional cigarettes (26.2%). This study aimed to outline the prevalence of tobacco and nicotine product use based on usage frequency, poly-product use patterns among ever/former/naive users. Methods In the 2020 cross-sectional study, secondary school students from 200 schools, were selected nationwide using a stratified and random approach, making the sample representative of the entire Polish population. Data were collected through Computer-Assisted Web Interviews, using a questionnaire based on the Global Youth Tobacco Survey. Bayesian linear regression was used to assess correlations. Results The study consisted of 16,712 pupils aged 15-18. Almost 30% of participants admitted to current e-cigarette usage. Questions on parental smoking habits showed that 45.95% of parents smoke traditional cigarettes, 13.89% use e-cigarettes, and 13.80% use heated tobacco products (HTP). There was a very strong positive correlation between the female gender and the initiation of smoking with regular cigarettes (log[BF]=10.76). A very strong positive correlation between those studying in vocational schools and with initiation with regular cigarettes during initiation (log[BF]=18.13), while high school students had a greater association with e-cigarettes (log[BF]=11.08). There was also a very strong positive correlation between adolescents initiating smoking with regular cigarettes when their parents are also regular cigarette smokers (log[BF]=8.11) - no corresponding correlations were observed for e-cigarettes and HTP. There is a moderate positive correlation indicating a relationship between younger age (15 vs 18) and initiation by e-cigarette (log[BF]=1.8). Key messages • The type of nicotine product used by adolescents for nicotine initiation correlates differently with various socio-demographic factors and the type of nicotine product used by parents. • Taking these relationships into consideration enables the development of tailored nicotine prevention.

Prevalence and sociodemographic correlates of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in 20 European countries

Abstract Our study aimed to analyze the prevalence and socio-economic factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy using individual data from representative national samples of 20 European countries. Data from round 10 of the European Social Survey, collected from May 2021 to September 2022, were analyzed. Prevalence (with a 95% confidence interval (CI 95%)) of participants’ intention to get vaccinated against COVID-19 was calculated. Crude differences in vaccine hesitancy proportions across sociodemographic strata were assessed using the Chi-square test. There were 31,771 adult participants (46.0 % men). The percentage of those hesitant (i.e. those who were not already vaccinated and intended not to be) toward the COVID-19 vaccine was 18.0% (CI 95% 17.6 - 18.4). Men and women were equally hesitant (18.0% vs. 18.0%, p = 0.93). There were differences between those under 40 (22.9%), adults between 40 and 59 (18.1%), and those over 60 (14.3%, p < 0.001). The unemployed had a higher proportion of hesitancy (32.9%) compared to the employed (17.4%), retirees (14.8%), and students (21.1%, p < 0.001). People living in rural areas have higher levels of hesitancy compared to those in urban areas (19.3% vs. 17.3%, p < 0.001). The estimates indicate that the highest prevalence of vaccine hesitancy was in Bulgaria (61.6%), Slovenia (40.4%) and Slovakia (30.7%), while Iceland (2.3%), Portugal (3.6%) and Italy (4.0%) had the lowest. Our study confirms high prevalence and high variability of hesitancy towards COVID-19 vaccines in Europe and identify groups for potential targeted interventions.

The prevalence of adolescent problem gambling: examining sociodemographic risk factors in New Mexico

ABSTRACT Problem gambling in adolescence can lead to significant negative consequences, yet few studies have examined the prevalence and risk factors among diverse youth populations. This study investigated gambling and related non-gambling activities and sociodemographic correlates of problem gambling in 2,533 high-school students in New Mexico aged 12–18 years (mean age 15.6), with an approximately equal gender distribution (49.3% male, 49.3% female, 1.4% unspecified). Overall, 3% screened positive for problem gambling, with higher rates among males (3.9%) than females (2.1%), Native American (4.5%), and Hispanic (3.3%) versus white (1.5%) students. In-person activities were more common than online activities for both gambling and non-gambling activities. Substance use behaviors, including binge drinking, e-cigarette, marijuana, and prescription painkiller use, were more prevalent among people with gambling problems. Controlling for demographics, the interaction between Hispanic ethnicity and past 30-day binge drinking was positively associated with problem gambling. A risk score combining substance use and housing instability also positively predicted problem gambling. These findings demonstrate sociodemographic and substance use risk factors for problem gambling among New Mexico adolescents. The study highlights the importance of considering diverse ethnic backgrounds and co-occurring risk behaviors in developing targeted prevention and intervention strategies for adolescent problem gambling across various cultural contexts.

Socio-demographic, psychosocial, and suicidal behavior correlates of stigma among people with physical disabilities in Northwest Ethiopia

BackgroundPeople with physical disability may experience stigma in various ways, including social avoidance, negative attitudes and discrimination. Stigma among people with physical disability can vary based on study participants’ socio-demographic, behavioral and psychosocial factors. Therefore, identifying the socio-demographic, behavioral and psychosocial correlates of stigma is important because the findings of the study can help inform future interventions aimed at reducing stigma among individuals with a physical disability.ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the psychosocial, suicidal behavior, and socio-demographic correlates of stigma among people with physical disabilities in the University of Gondar communities, northwest Ethiopia.MethodData collection was conducted among 269 participants who had a physical disability within University of Gondar communities in Northwest Ethiopia. The participants, who included students and employees at the University completed the stigma scale for chronic illness (SSCI-8), which was used to measure stigma. The participants also completed four other questionnaires, including the perceived social support, the Kessler − 10, and the WHODAS. We used independent sample t-tests and ANOVA to examine group differences in stigma, while Pearson correlation analysis identified the correlates of stigma with other continuous variables.ResultThe overall mean stigma score among people with a physical disability was 14.68 with 95% CI (13.98, 15.38). About 90.71% of people with physical disability had stigma. Stigma varied along socio-demographic variables, including marital status (single) with a mean (SD) score of 15.17 ± 5.64, educational level (diploma and above) with a mean (SD) score of 14.99 ± 5.89, and occupational status with a mean (SD) score of 15.54 ± 5.79 (p < 0.001). In addition, stigma varied among participants with suicidal ideation with a mean (SD) score of 16.93 ± 7.43 and attempt (18.74 ± 8.41), levels of psychological distress (severe) with a mean (SD) score of 20.88 ± 6.94 (p < 0.001), low perceived social support with a mean (SD) score of 18.60 ± 7.54 (p < 0.001), and moderate/severe level of functional impairment with a mean (SD) score of 21.76 ± 7.34 (p < 0.001). Moreover, stigma was positively correlated with psychological distress (r = 0.42, p < 0.001) and WHO Disability Assessment Schedule (r = 0.5, p < 0.001). Conversely, it was negatively correlated with perceived social support (r=-0.31, p < 0.001).ConclusionOur findings indicate that stigma is prevalent among people with physical disabilities, with variations observed based on marital status, occupation, and education level. Additionally, stigma showed significant correlations with functional impairment, psychological distress, perceived social support, and health related quality of life. Therefore, addressing stigma, promoting social support and providing appropriate interventions can help improve the psychological well-being and quality of life of individuals with physical disabilities.

Socio-demographic correlates of academic procrastination among undergraduates

Socio-demographic correlates of academic procrastination among undergraduates

One-year trajectories of physical and mental health-related quality of life, fatigue and dyspnoea in COVID-19 survivors.

A substantial number of people experience a persisting impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) after COVID-19. The current study aims to identify different trajectories of physical and mental HRQoL, fatigue severity, and dyspnoea severity following hospitalisation with COVID-19, and associated factors of these trajectories. 500 patients with COVID-19 were followed for one year in a longitudinal cohort study. Self-reported outcomes were measured at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after hospitalisation. Distinct trajectories were characterised using Growth Mixture Modelling. Sociodemographic and clinical correlates of trajectories were investigated using multivariable (multinomial) logistic regression analyses. Three trajectories ('stable high' (16%), 'improving' (40%), and 'stable low' (44%)) were found for physical HRQoL, and four ('stable high' (43%), 'improving' (14%), 'middle declining' (17%), and 'low' (26%)) for mental HRQoL. Older age, overweight and obesity, lower education, and comorbidities were associated with 'low' physical HRQoL. Younger age was associated with 'low' mental HRQoL. Four fatigue trajectories ('no fatigue' (15%), 'improving' (40%), 'low-severe' (27%), and 'high-severe' (18%)) were found. Participants either experienced almost never ('no dyspnoea', 75%) or almost always ('severe', 25%) dyspnoea. High co-occurrences between low HRQoL and severe fatigue and dyspnoea symptom trajectories were found. A substantial number of COVID-19 survivors continue to struggle with reduced HRQoL over time. However, large variations in these physical and mental HRQoL trajectories exist, and trajectories are associated with persisting COVID-19-related symptoms or pre-hospitalised health status. Regular measurement of HRQoL and post-COVID symptoms may help identify those that may benefit from timely interventions.

Physical Inactivity and its Sociodemographic Determinants among Adults: A Community-Based Study

Introduction: Physical inactivity (PI) is the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality and is potentially modifiable. Understanding its sociodemographic correlates can contribute in planning preventive measures to reduce the same. Aims and Objectives: 1) To estimate the prevalence of PI among adults aged 20–60 years and 2) to identify the sociodemographic determinants of PI among adults. Material and Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was done in district Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh. 304 adults aged 20–60 years, giving informed consent were selected by simple random sampling. Pregnant women and those with febrile disease and physical defect were excluded. Predesigned structured proforma and Global Physical Activity Questionnaire were used. Chi-square test and logistic regression analysis were applied using IBM SPSS 23.0. Results: Prevalence of PI was 47.7% (95% CI: 42.0–52.6). It was significantly higher in urban (55.3% vs 41.1%) than in rural area and among females than in males (68.7% vs 34.9%). PI during work was 74.3%, during travel 78.9%, and during recreation 88.5%. Being female increased odds of PI by almost ten times (adjusted odds atio (AOR) =9.7, 95% CI: 1.6–58.5). Unskilled workers/laborers and farmers (those involved in active occupational work) were found to have lesser odds of PI (AOR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.1–0.5 and AOR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.01–0.6, respectively). Conclusion: PI is highly prevalent among adults. Targeted interventions to increase physical activity in recreational domain are recommended, specially in urban areas and among women. Further studies to explore barriers to physical activity are needed to address this problem.

Prevalence of diabetes mellitus-related complications and their impact on health-related quality of life in Singapore.

One in three Singaporeans is at risk of developing DM (DM) in their lifetime. The majority of those with DM experience other comorbidities that often affect the course of their DM. This study explored: (a) the prevalence of DM-related complications, (b) their sociodemographic correlates, and (c) their association with health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Participants with DM (n = 387) were recruited from a population-based survey. Type 2 DM was self-reported as diagnosed by a doctor. The DM-related complications and comorbidities were assessed using the DM knowledge questionnaire and chronic conditions checklist. Short-Form health survey was used to examined HRQOL. Multiple logistic regressions were performed to examine the association between DM-related complications and sociodemographic factors and body mass index. Multiple linear regressions examined the association of complications with HRQOL. Approximately 31.6% of the participants had DM-related complications. The top three complications were nephropathy (54.4%), neuropathy (42.2%) and retinopathy (40.8%). Younger participants (aged 18-49 years) and those with higher education were less likely to develop DM-related complications. Physical HRQOL was adversely affected in participants with any chronic condition, DM for 4-9 years, DM-related neuropathy, lower leg/foot ulcers and gangrene. Mental HRQOL was adversely affected by gangrene. Younger participants had better physical HRQOL. Physical HRQOL is adversely affected when individuals develop DM-related complications. Understanding the sociodemographic corelates of DM-related complications could aid clinicians in identifying and assisting at-risk populations to prevent adverse outcomes. Educating individuals on the risk of developing DM-related complications could encourage better DM management.

Gender-specific correlates for suicide mortality in people with schizophrenia: a 9-year population-based study

BackgroundSchizophrenia is associated with a high mortality rate due to the high risk of suicide. However, there is still a lack of evidence on the gender-specific risk factors for suicide among people with schizophrenia. In this study, we aimed to measure the sociodemographic and clinical correlates of suicide deaths in different genders among people with schizophrenia.MethodsData on patients with schizophrenia from 2013 to 2021 in Guangzhou, China were obtained from the National Information System for Psychosis (NISP), involving a total of 33,080 patients. Cox regression and Fine-Gray models were used to explore the sociodemographic and clinical risk factors for suicide mortality in different genders.ResultsThe overall age-standardized mortality rates due to suicide were 133.89 (95% CI: 124.31-143.47) per 100,000 person-years for females and 163.25 (95% CI: 152.92-173.59) per 100,000 person-years for males. To be specific, lack of medical insurance, history of non-treatment, and history of suicidal behavior was associated with a higher risk for suicide mortality for females, while an age of 35–54, being hospitalized once, and the age of onset being > 28 years were linked to lower risk for suicide mortality for males. For both genders, a lower risk for suicide mortality was observed in patients at an older age (≥ 55 years) and with a history of hospitalization more than once, and a higher suicide mortality risk was found in married patients and those residing in rural areas.ConclusionThe present study found that gender differences should be taken into account in the development of suicide prevention programs for people with schizophrenia, and future research is still required to verify our preliminary results.

Sociodemographic correlates of fear-related attitudes toward the wolf (Canis lupus lupus). A survey in southeastern Norway

The recent increase in the grey wolf Canis lupus population in Norway has led to an intense debate about the management of this species. A telephone survey of fear-related attitudes toward the wolf was conducted in four counties in south eastern Norway. 52% claimed that they not at all, or to a small degree, would become concerned about their own or their family’s safety when being outdoors if wolves were living in their area, while 31% said they clearly would become more concerned. 36% of the sample expressed that they definitely would become more careful when walking in the fields and forest, 25% partly agreed to this, while 38% said they would not become more careful. 25% said they were very much afraid of wolves, 30% were somewhat afraid, while 43% were not afraid at all. Generally, women, the elderly, persons with short education, and rural inhabitants expressed more negative, fear-related attitudes than did other sociodemographic groups. Parents with young children expressed more fear of wolves compared to equally old parents without children at home, but this finding applied only to residents in the city. People who had a dog in their household were less afraid of wolves than those who did not have a dog; this applied only to rural residents. In general, the level of self-reported fear and concern equals what has been found in Sweden and Finland, but the attitudes found in Norwegian rural areas were more negative than attitudes of rural residents in Sweden. The results are discussed on the background of evolutionary/genetic, cultural, and political influences.

Sexual Orientation Discrimination in Early Adolescents

This cross-sectional study examined the prevalence of sexual orientation discrimination and its sociodemographic correlates among a large, diverse sample of early adolescents in the US.

Prevalence and correlates of mental disorders among women: results from the Saudi National Mental Health Survey

BackgroundMental disorders account for a significant proportion of the world’s disease burden and are more significant among females than males. However, most global mental health research is sex neutral, including in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This study, therefore, estimated the prevalence of mental disorders and investigated the sociodemographic correlates, sex disadvantage factors, and treatment-seeking in Saudi women concerning lifetime and 12-month mental disorders.MethodThe Saudi National Mental Health Survey is a stratified multistage clustered area probability design. Lifetime and 12-month mental disorders were assessed through the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI 3.0). The correlates considered for this study included age-at-interview, education, marital status, employment status, socioeconomic status (SES), any chronic condition and household characteristics (region, urbanicity, and income), as well as domestic violence, age at marriage and in a polygamous marriage. Data was analysed using PROC SURVEYFREQ procedure as well as logistic regression in SAS 9.2.ResultsOverall, 24.7% and 35.9% of Saudi women experienced at least one of the disorders in the prior 12 months and at least once in their lifetime, respectively. Anxiety disorders were the most frequently reported 12-month and lifetime disorders, followed by mood disorders. The region, urbanicity, chronic conditions, employment status, as well as certain sex disadvantage factors were significantly associated with both 12-month and lifetime disorders. Most women did not seek treatment for 12-month mental disorders (86.2%) and lifetime disorders (73.8%).ConclusionOur study confirms that mental health issues, particularly anxiety and mood disorders, are highly prevalent among Saudi women, influenced by chronic conditions and sex-related factors like domestic violence and polygamy. Future research should focus on improving mental health literacy, using rigorous study designs to explore female-specific variables, and investigating genetic and environmental factors.

Patterns of dietary quality, physical activity, and sleep duration among cancer survivors and caregivers.

Fruit and vegetable intake (FVI), moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and sleep duration are each independently associated with cancer-related and general health outcomes among cancer survivors. Past research suggests that health behaviors cluster among cancer survivors, with caregivers demonstrating similar patterns. This analysis examined co-occurrence of FVI, MVPA, and sleep duration among cancer survivors and informal cancer caregivers and identified sociodemographic and clinical correlates of health behavior engagement. Using data from the Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS), an exploratory latent profile analysis (LPA) was conducted among those self-reporting a history of cancer or identifying as a cancer caregiver. The LPA model was fit with daily self-reported FVI (cups/d), MPVA (minutes/d) and sleep duration (hours/d). Multinomial logistic regression models were used to predict profile membership based on sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Four health behavior profiles were identified (Least Engaged-No MVPA, Least Engaged-Low MVPA, Moderately Engaged, and Highly Engaged). The largest profile membership was Least Engaged-No MVPA, capturing 37% of the sample. Profiles were most distinguished by MVPA, with the lowest variance in sleep duration. Participants reporting higher FVI also often reported greater MVPA and longer sleep duration. Profile membership was significantly associated with age, relationship status, education, income, rurality, alcohol use, self-efficacy, psychological distress, BMI, and cancer type. This study identified four health behaviors patterns and sociodemographic correlates that distinguished those patterns among cancer survivors and caregivers drawn from a nationally representative sample. Results may help identify for whom health behavior interventions could be of greatest benefit.

COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy and Uptake Among Vaccinated Population in Malaysia

This study identified the significant COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and intention to uptake motives and sociodemographic predictors among vaccinated Malaysian adults. A cross-sectional study using a self-administered online questionnaire adapted from the COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy Scale and extended based on previous studies was used to solicit data from 698 Malaysians. A theoretical framework comprising Trust, Vaccine Concerns, Unreliable Entities, Uptake Influencers, Brand Influencers, and Brand_Side-effect was used as a guide to assess intention to receive COVID-19 vaccines in the future. Hierarchical linear regressions revealed Trust, Vaccine Concerns, Brand_Side-effect and Uptake Influencers to significantly predict intention to receive vaccines in the future when controlled for sociodemographic correlates. Ethnicity and technology literacy were found to have significant impacts on future vaccine uptake. Age significantly correlated with intention to be vaccinated as well. Underlying motives and sociodemographic correlates were identified for COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and uptake.

Correlates of Sexual Dysfunction in Male Patients with Alcohol Dependence Syndrome: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Sexual dysfunction and alcohol dependence syndrome are complex issues that significantly impact the overall well-being and quality of life of affected individuals. Sexual dysfunction, encompassing various issues such as erectile dysfunction, reduced libido, and orgasmic disorders, is a prevalent concern affecting a substantial proportion of the male population worldwide. Aim: To estimate prevalence of sexual dysfunction in patients admitted for Alcohol dependence and to identify various Clinical and Socio demographic correlates for sexual dysfunction in this population. Materials and Methods: The study involved fifty-eight male participants who had sought deaddiction treatment at the Psychiatry Outpatient Department of Tertiary Care Centre, Maduranthakam for alcohol dependence syndrome, diagnosed according to the ICD‑10. Information on sociodemographic, alcohol-related, and sexual dysfunction-related variables was gathered. Sexual dysfunction was assessed for the past year, ignoring temporary and situational complaints. The relationship between sexual dysfunction and various study variables was explored using relevant statistical tools. Results: Out of the total sample size evaluated using SAD-Q score, 71% are moderately dependent and 29 % are severely dependent. Sexual Dysfunction was present for 64% of patients in the study. For the 58 patients in the study, the most common sexual dysfunction reported was an absence of sexual desire in 19 patients, followed by erectile dysfunction which was present in 18 patients. The ability to reach orgasm was difficult for 6 patients. Satisfaction from orgasm was absent for 4 patients. Conclusion: This research seeks to advance our understanding of sexual dysfunction in male patients with alcohol dependence syndrome by unravelling the intricate web of factors influencing their sexual health.

Trends in prevalence of adverse childhood experiences by sociodemographic factors in the United States: Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System 2009–2022

BackgroundLimited data exists on trends in prevalence of adverse childhood experiences (ACE) at the national level and sociodemographic correlates of having ACEs. This study examined trends in ACE prevalence and sociodemographic correlates in US adults over 14 years using nationally representative data.MethodsData on 447,162 adults from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) across four timepoints (2009–2010; 2011–2012; 2019–2020; 2021–2022) was analyzed and weighted for population estimates. The primary outcome was ACEs with 3 groups used (0 vs. 1 + ACEs; <4 vs. 4 + ACEs; 0 vs. 1 vs. 2 vs. 3 vs. 4 + ACEs). Sociodemographic factors included age, sex, race/ethnicity, employment, education, marital status, income and insurance status. Prevalence trends were examined by estimating prevalence of ACE groupings (0/1+; <4/4+; 0,1,2,3,4+) across the four timepoints and trend analysis was performed to determine if the differences over time were statistically significant. Unadjusted and adjusted prevalence ratios were estimated using log-binomial regression models with ACE groupings as the outcome and timepoints as the primary independent variable with sociodemographic factors as covariates.ResultsAcross the four time points, prevalence of ACEs was higher across groupings of ACEs by time. For ACEs 1+, prevalence was 62.2% (2009–2010); 62.2% (2011–2012); 64.5% (2019–2020); and 67.2% (2021–2022). For ACEs 4+, prevalence was 17.4% (2009–2010); 18.1% (2011–2012); 20.4% (2019–2020); and 22.6% (2021–2022). Prevalence of ACE 1 + was higher for older adults, Non-Hispanic Black adults, Non-Hispanic Other adults, and those with higher education. Prevalence of 4 + ACEs was higher for females, and lower for those with higher education and those with higher annual incomes.ConclusionThis study shows an increased prevalence of having ACEs over a 14-year period and identified independent sociodemographic correlates of having ACEs in a nationally representative study. Targeted interventions are needed to reduce burden of ACEs using population-based approaches.

Food insecurity in Norway: A cross-sectional study among patients visiting their general practitioner.

We aim to address the knowledge gap surrounding food insecurity in general practice in Norway, focusing on its prevalence among patients, sociodemographic correlates and its relationship with chronic diseases across different age groups. This study is cross-sectional, collecting data through 69 general practice clinics in 2022 from patients >18 years old visiting their general practitioner. They answered an anonymous questionnaire with the Cornell-Radimer hunger scale. Questions addressed hunger, concerns about food access, financial difficulties purchasing food, impact on children, patient demographics, children, and use of medications for chronic disease. We present logistic regression models with odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals to examine associations between food insecurity and patient characteristics. Among 2571 invited patients, 81.2% (n=2089) participated in the study. Of the participants, 40.1% were considered food insecure. The questions in the Cornell-Radimer hunger scale indicated that most had a mild degree of food insecurity. Food insecurity ranged from 28.9% among those >70 years old to 68.0% among those <30 years old. Food insecurity was associated with age <30 years, being migrant, inversely associated with higher educational levels (OR 0.60, 0.41-0.87) or having own children (OR 0.24, 0.18-0.31). Food insecurity was higher among participants using medications for chronic disease (OR 1.33, 1.05-1.68). This study underscores the presence of food insecurity in high-income countries like Norway, particularly among specific groups such as young adults, migrants and patients with chronic diseases. These categories of patient could benefit from screening of food insecurity during medical contact.

Sociodemographic correlates of dietary habits among university students of health sciences in Kosovo

We aimed to assess the prevalence and sociodemographic correlates of selected dietary habits among students of health sciences in Kosovo. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Kosovo in 2024, including 470 students of health sciences (≈86% females; mean age: 20.7±2.7 years; response rate: 70%). Information on selected dietary habits and sociodemographic factors of the students was gathered. Independent positive correlates of a lower fruit intake (&lt;1 time/day) included male gender (OR=2.3, 95% CI =1.3-4.2) and a lower economic level (OR=1.5, 95% CI =1.0-2.3). Furthermore, positive independent correlates of a higher frequency of consumption of fried foods (≥1 time/day) included male gender (OR=2.2, 95% CI =1.2-4.1), urban residence (OR=1.6, 95% CI =1.0-2.6) and a lower economic level (OR=1.7, 95% CI =1.0-2.7). Conversely, excessive salt intake was positively and strongly correlated to a lower economic level (OR=3.5, 95% CI =2.1-6.0), but inversely related to students’ age (OR=0.4, 95% CI =0.2-0.9). Male gender and particularly a lower economic level were strong correlates of poor dietary habits among university students in Kosovo. Targeted interventions are needed to address dietary habits among youths, with a focus on providing support and resources to economically disadvantaged individuals.