Use of Text Messaging (SMS) for the Management of Side Effects in Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy Treatment: a Randomized Controlled Trial.

Cancer patients are often not sufficiently oriented to manage side effects at home. Sending text messages with self-care guidelines aimed managing side effects is the main objective of this randomized controlled trial. Patients who started outpatient chemotherapy treatment between March and December 2017 at a hospital in southern Brazil were invited to participate in this study and were allocated to the intervention or control group (ratio 1: 1). Each patient in the intervention group received a daily SMS (short message service) with some guidance on management or prevention of side effects. All text messages were sent to the intervention group patients in an automated and tailored way by our app called cHEmotHErApp. Side effects experienced by patients were verified using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core-30 (EORTC QLQ-C30). Results showed intervention group patients experienced fewer side effects compared to the control group in cycle 1 (p < 0.05), in general. In addition, intervention group experienced less nausea in relation to the control group, in the cycle 1 and cycle 2 (p < 0.05). This study indicate text messaging may be a tool for supporting side effect management in patients receiving chemotherapy. This study was enrolled in ClinicalTrials.gov with the identification number NCT03087422. This research was performed in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki.

Complementary feeding, consumption of industrialized foods and nutritional status of children under 3 years old in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, 2016: a descriptive study. / Alimentação complementar, consumo de alimentos industrializados e estado nutricional de crianças menores de 3 anos em Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, 2016: um estudo descritivo.

OBJECTIVE: to verify how and when complementary feeding (CF) begins, its profile, consumption of processed foods and nutritional status of children aged 1-3 years. METHODS: children enrolled at public schools in Pelotas, RS, Brazil, were evaluated; length/height-for-age and weight-for-age scores, and body mass index (BMI)/age were used, and a structured questionnaire was administered to parents/caregivers; CF was considered early when started before the age of six months; data were presented in a descriptive way. RESULTS: 79 children were evaluated, of whom 13 were overweight and 6 obese; 11 had high weight-for-age; mean age for beginning CF was 5.3 months; when aged <6 months, 43% received gelatin, and 12.7% juice from cartons; when aged 6-24 months, 96.2% received filled biscuits and 91.1% salty snacks. CONCLUSION: CF and consumption of processed foods began early; obesity and overweight were more prevalent than malnutrition.

Alimentação complementar, consumo de alimentos industrializados e estado nutricional de crianças menores de 3 anos em Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, 2016: um estudo descritivo / Alimentación complementaria, consumo de alimentos industrializados y estado nutricional de niños menores de 3 años en Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, 2016: un estudio descriptivo / Complementary feeding, consumption of industrialized foods and nutritional status of children under 3 years old in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, 2016: a descriptive study

Objetivo: verificar como e quando a alimentação complementar (AC) se inicia, seu perfil, o consumo de industrializados e o estado nutricional de crianças de 1-3 anos. Métodos: foram avaliadas crianças matriculadas em escolas públicas de Pelotas, RS, Brasil; utilizaram-se os indicadores de estatura/idade, peso/idade e índice de massa corporal (IMC)/idade. Um questionário estruturado aplicado aos pais/cuidadores. A AC foi considerada precoce quando iniciada antes dos 6 meses. Os dados foram apresentados de forma descritiva. Resultados: 79 crianças foram avaliadas, 13 apresentaram sobrepeso e 6 obesidade; 11 acusaram peso elevado para a idade. A média para início da AC foi de 5,3 meses. Enquanto menores de 6 meses, 43% receberam gelatina e 12,7% suco de caixinha; quando na idade de 6-24 meses, 96,2% receberam biscoito recheado e 91,1% salgadinho. Conclusão: a AC e o consumo de alimentos industrializados iniciaram-se precocemente; obesidade e sobrepeso foram mais prevalentes que desnutrição.

Objetivo: evaluar como y cuando comienza la alimentación complementaria (AC), su perfil, consumo de alimentos procesados y estado nutricional de niños de 1-3 años. Métodos: se evaluaron niños matriculados en escuelas públicas de Pelotas, RS, Brasil; se utilizaron los índices de longitud/estatura/edad, peso/edad e índice de masa corporal (IMC)/edad, y un cuestionario estructurado aplicado a los padres/cuidadores; la AC fue considerada precoz cuando empezó antes de los seis meses; los datos se presentaron de modo descriptivo. Resultados: 79 niños fueron evaluados, 13 presentaron sobrepeso y 6 obesidad; 11 presentaron peso elevado para la edad; el promedio para el inicio de la AC fue de 5,3 meses; en cuanto a menores de 6 meses, 43% recibieron gelatina y 12,7% jugo de caja; a los 6-24 meses, 96,2% recibieron galletitas rellenas y 91,1% snacks salados. Conclusión: la AC y el consumo de alimentos industrializados comenzaron precozmente; obesidad y sobrepeso fueron más prevalentes que la desnutrición.

Objective: to verify how and when complementary feeding (CF) begins, its profile, consumption of processed foods and nutritional status of children aged 1-3 years. Methods: children enrolled at public schools in Pelotas, RS, Brazil, were evaluated; length/height-for-age and weight-for-age scores, and body mass index (BMI)/age were used, and a structured questionnaire was administered to parents/caregivers; CF was considered early when started before the age of six months; data were presented in a descriptive way. Results: 79 children were evaluated, of whom 13 were overweight and 6 obese; 11 had high weight-for-age; mean age for beginning CF was 5.3 months; when aged <6 months, 43% received gelatin, and 12.7% juice from cartons; when aged 6-24 months, 96.2% received filled biscuits and 91.1% salty snacks. Conclusion: CF and consumption of processed foods began early; obesity and overweight were more prevalent than malnutrition.

[Food intake according to the type of food consumed in schools in a rural area in southern Brazil]. / Consumo alimentar conforme o tipo de alimentação consumida em escolas de zona rural no Sul do Brasil.

The scope of the article was to evaluate food consumption according to the type of food consumed in rural schools. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among adolescents enrolled in 12 rural public schools in Canguçu in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The research was linked to the intervention named "Physical Education +: Practicing Health in School." Dietary intake was evaluated using consumption markers from the Brazilian Food and Nutrition Surveillance System. The main independent variable was the type of food consumed at school (brought from home, provided by the school free of charge and/or purchased at school). Descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test were used and the significance level was p<0.05. The study enlisted 526 students, 51.3% female and 88.0% consuming food free of charge. From 15% to 31% of adolescents consumed foods considered unhealthy for more than three days in the preceding week. Students who reported taking a snack to school consumed raw salad, fresh fruit or fruit salad, biscuits/crackers and packet snacks and soft drinks more frequently. It was concluded that the consumption of healthy foods among schoolchildren in rural areas was low and interventions are needed to improve the current situation of inadequate feeding practices.

Objetivou-se avaliar o consumo alimentar de escolares conforme o tipo de alimentação consumida em escolas de zona rural. Trata-se de um estudo transversal realizado com adolescentes de 12 escolas públicas rurais de Canguçu/RS. A investigação está vinculada à intervenção "Educação Física +: Praticando Saúde na Escola". O consumo alimentar foi avaliado pelos marcadores do Sistema de Vigilância Alimentar e Nutricional. A variável independente principal foi o tipo de alimentação consumida (trazida de casa, fornecida gratuitamente e/ou comprada na escola). Foi utilizada a estatística descritiva e o teste de Qui-quadrado com nível de significância de p < 0,05. Participaram do estudo 526 escolares, 51,3% do sexo feminino e 88,0% que consumiram a alimentação gratuita. Entre 15-31% dos adolescentes consumiram mais de três dias na semana anterior alimentos considerados não saudáveis. Os escolares que relataram levar lanche de casa para a escola consumiram com maior frequência salada crua, frutas frescas ou salada de frutas, bolachas/biscoitos salgados e salgadinhos de pacote e refrigerante. Concluiu-se que o consumo de alimentos saudáveis entre os escolares da zona rural foi baixo e intervenções são necessárias a fim de melhorar o quadro atual de práticas inadequadas de alimentação.

Consumo alimentar conforme o tipo de alimentação consumida em escolas de zona rural no Sul do Brasil / Food intake according to the type of food consumed in schools in a rural area in southern Brazil

Resumo Objetivou-se avaliar o consumo alimentar de escolares conforme o tipo de alimentação consumida em escolas de zona rural. Trata-se de um estudo transversal realizado com adolescentes de 12 escolas públicas rurais de Canguçu/RS. A investigação está vinculada à intervenção "Educação Física +: Praticando Saúde na Escola". O consumo alimentar foi avaliado pelos marcadores do Sistema de Vigilância Alimentar e Nutricional. A variável independente principal foi o tipo de alimentação consumida (trazida de casa, fornecida gratuitamente e/ou comprada na escola). Foi utilizada a estatística descritiva e o teste de Qui-quadrado com nível de significância de p < 0,05. Participaram do estudo 526 escolares, 51,3% do sexo feminino e 88,0% que consumiram a alimentação gratuita. Entre 15-31% dos adolescentes consumiram mais de três dias na semana anterior alimentos considerados não saudáveis. Os escolares que relataram levar lanche de casa para a escola consumiram com maior frequência salada crua, frutas frescas ou salada de frutas, bolachas/biscoitos salgados e salgadinhos de pacote e refrigerante. Concluiu-se que o consumo de alimentos saudáveis entre os escolares da zona rural foi baixo e intervenções são necessárias a fim de melhorar o quadro atual de práticas inadequadas de alimentação.

Abstract The scope of the article was to evaluate food consumption according to the type of food consumed in rural schools. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among adolescents enrolled in 12 rural public schools in Canguçu in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The research was linked to the intervention named "Physical Education +: Practicing Health in School." Dietary intake was evaluated using consumption markers from the Brazilian Food and Nutrition Surveillance System. The main independent variable was the type of food consumed at school (brought from home, provided by the school free of charge and/or purchased at school). Descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test were used and the significance level was p<0.05. The study enlisted 526 students, 51.3% female and 88.0% consuming food free of charge. From 15% to 31% of adolescents consumed foods considered unhealthy for more than three days in the preceding week. Students who reported taking a snack to school consumed raw salad, fresh fruit or fruit salad, biscuits/crackers and packet snacks and soft drinks more frequently. It was concluded that the consumption of healthy foods among schoolchildren in rural areas was low and interventions are needed to improve the current situation of inadequate feeding practices.

Text Messaging (SMS) Helping Cancer Care in Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy Treatment: a Pilot Study.

Cancer treatment is an extremely stressful life experience that is accompanied by a range of psychological, social, physical, and practical difficulties. Cancer patients need to receive information that helps them to better understand the disease, assists them in decision-making, and helps them deal with treatment. Patients are interested in receiving such information. The degree of satisfaction with the information received has been associated with positive health outcomes, specifically regarding quality of life, severity of side effects, and psychological well-being. This study investigates a method of guiding cancer patients, in relation to outpatient chemotherapy treatment, using SMS (short message service) text messaging. A smartphone application called cHEmotHErApp was developed, and its primary function is to send out SMS text messages with guidance for self-care and emotional support for oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy. Thus, the main objective of this study is to evaluate the acceptance and perception of patients of the receipt of these SMS messages, as well as to evaluate the possible benefits reported by the participants. Adult patients diagnosed with cancer, who started the first outpatient chemotherapy treatment scheme between August and November 2016 at the School Hospital (HE) of the Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel), were invited to participate in this pilot study. In total, 14 cancer patients were adherent to this study. Each of these patients received a daily text message on their cell phone with some guidance on encouraging self-care and emotional support. Patients reported that, because of the SMS text messages they received, they felt more confident in their treatment, felt more supported and encouraged, and that the text messages facilitated self-care. In addition, patients reported that the SMS text messages they received helped them to take better care of themselves and to continue further treatment.

Consumo excessivo de suplementos nutricionais entre profissionais atuantes em academias de ginástica de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, 2012 / Consumo excesivo de suplementos nutricionales en profesionales que trabajan en gimnasios en Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul / Excessive consumption of dietary supplements among professionals working in gyms in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, 2012

Objetivo: investigar a prevalência e fatores associados ao consumo excessivo de suplementos nutricionais entre profissionais das academias de ginástica de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Métodos: estudo transversal com todos os profissionais locais encontrados em 2012; o consumo excessivo de suplementos nutricionais foi definido como o uso de três ou mais tipos dessas substâncias simultaneamente; análise multivariável foi realizada por meio de regressão de Poisson, com variância robusta. Resultados: foram entrevistados 497 profissionais; a prevalência de uso excessivo de suplementos nutricionais foi de 10,5% (IC95% 7,9;13,5); houve associação com sexo masculino (RP=3,2; IC95% 1,6;6,7) e tempo de ingestão ≥4 anos, comparado com <1 ano (RP=2,8; IC95% 1,7;4,7); observou-se menor consumo excessivo entre profissionais com maior escolaridade, graduados ou não em Educação Física (p=0,007). Conclusões: o consumo excessivo de suplementos nutricionais teve prevalência que pode ser considerada elevada e foi associado a variáveis sociodemográficas.

Objetivo: determinar la prevalencia y factores asociados con el consumo excesivo de suplementos nutricionales entre los profesionales de los gimnasios. Métodos: estudio transversal con todos los profesionales locales encontrados en 2012; el uso excesivo de suplementos nutricionales se definió como el uso de tres o más tipos de suplementos simultáneamente; el análisis multivariado se realizó mediante regresión de Poisson con varianza robusta. Resultados: fueron entrevistados 497 profesionales; la prevalencia del consumo excesivo de suplementos dietéticos fue de 10,5% (IC95% 7,9;13,5); hubo asociación con sexo masculino (RP=3,2 - IC95% 1,6;6,7) y tiempo de utilización ≥4 años comparado con <1 año (RP=2,8 - IC95% 1,7;4,7); y se verificó menor consumo en profesionales con mayor escolaridad. Conclusiones: la prevalencia del consumo excesivo de suplementos dietéticos puede considerarse elevada y estuvo asociada con variables sociodemográficas.

Objective: to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with excessive consumption of dietary supplements among professionals working at gyms in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. Methods: this is a cross-sectional study with all local fitness professionals identified in 2012; excessive consumption of dietary supplements was defined as the use of three or more types of supplements simultaneously; multivariate analysis was carried out using Poisson regression with robust variance. Results: 497 professionals were interviewed; the prevalence of excessive consumption of dietary supplements was 10.5% (95%CI 7.9;13.5); there was association with the male sex (PR=3.2; 95%CI 1.6;6.7) and with length of time of dietary supplement consumption ≥4 years when compared to <1 year (PR=2.8; 95%CI 1.7;4.7); lower consumption was found among professionals with higher levels of education, regardless of whether they had a degree in physical education or not (p=0,007). Conclusions: prevalence of excessive consumption of dietary supplements can be considered high and was associated with sociodemographic variables.

Excessive consumption of dietary supplements among professionals working in gyms in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, 2012. / Consumo excessivo de suplementos nutricionais entre profissionais atuantes em academias de ginástica de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, 2012.

OBJECTIVE: to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with excessive consumption of dietary supplements among professionals working at gyms in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. METHODS: this is a cross-sectional study with all local fitness professionals identified in 2012; excessive consumption of dietary supplements was defined as the use of three or more types of supplements simultaneously; multivariate analysis was carried out using Poisson regression with robust variance. RESULTS: 497 professionals were interviewed; the prevalence of excessive consumption of dietary supplements was 10.5% (95%CI 7.9;13.5); there was association with the male sex (PR=3.2; 95%CI 1.6;6.7) and with length of time of dietary supplement consumption ≥4 years when compared to <1 year (PR=2.8; 95%CI 1.7;4.7); lower consumption was found among professionals with higher levels of education, regardless of whether they had a degree in physical education or not (p=0,007). CONCLUSIONS: prevalence of excessive consumption of dietary supplements can be considered high and was associated with sociodemographic variables.

Design of a digital and self-reported food frequency questionnaire to estimate food consumption in adolescents and young adults: birth cohorts at Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. / Desenho de um questionário de frequência alimentar digital autoaplicado para avaliar o consumo alimentar de adolescentes e adultos jovens: coortes de nascimentos de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul.

PURPOSE: Methodological paper aiming to describe the development of a digital and self-reported food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), created to the 1982 and 1993 Pelotas Birth Cohorts. METHODS: The instrument was created based on FFQs previously applied to subjects belonging to both cohorts in the 2004 and 2008 follow-ups. The FFQ was developed including 88 foods and/or meals where frequencies were clustered from a minimum of never or once/month to a maximum of greater than or equal to 5 times/day. The closed options related to portions were based on a 24-hour recall previously asked to a subsample from the 1993 cohort. Three options for portions were created: equal to, less than or greater than. Equal to portion was described based on the 50 percentile of each food consumed reported in a 24-hour recall. Photographs of portions related to the 50 percentile for each food were also included in the software. RESULTS: This digital FFQ included food and meals based on the needs of current researches. The layout of the software was attractive to the staff members as well as to the cohort members. The responding time was 12 minutes and the software allowed several individuals to use it at the same time. Moreover, this instrument dismissed interviewers and double data entry. CONCLUSION: It is recommended the use of the same strategy in other studies, adapted to different contexts and situations.

Desenho de um questionário de frequência alimentar digital autoaplicado para avaliar o consumo alimentar de adolescentes e adultos jovens: coortes de nascimentos de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul / Design of a digital and self-reported food frequency questionnaire to estimate food consumption in adolescents and young adults: birth cohorts at Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

RESUMO: Objetivo: Artigo metodológico com o objetivo de descrever a construção de um questionário de frequência alimentar (QFA) digital autoaplicado, desenvolvido para as coortes de nascimentos de Pelotas de 1982 e 1993. Métodos: O instrumento foi criado com base em QFAs anteriormente utilizados nas duas coortes em acompanhamentos nos anos de 2004 e 2008. O QFA foi elaborado incluindo 88 alimentos e/ou preparações cujas frequências foram agrupadas em categorias desde o valor mínimo de consumo de nunca ou < 1 vez/mês até o máximo de ≥ 5 vezes/dia. As opções fechadas relativas à porção foram construídas considerando recordatórios de 24 horas (R24Hs) anteriormente aplicados à subamostra da coorte de 1993. Três alternativas de porção foram construídas: igual, menos ou mais. A porção igual foi descrita com base no percentil 50 do consumo de cada alimento, obtido a partir das distribuições das porções constantes nos R24H. Fotos das porções relativas ao percentil 50 de cada alimento foram também incluídas ao formato do programa. Resultados: Esse QFA digital incluiu alimentos e preparações que atendem aos objetivos das pesquisas atuais. A aparência do programa foi atrativa à equipe de trabalho e também aos participantes do estudo. O tempo médio de aplicação de 12 minutos e a facilidade de preenchimento possibilitaram que vários participantes respondessem às questões ao mesmo tempo. Além disso, o instrumento dispensou a necessidade de entrevistador e a dupla entrada de dados em programa específico. Conclusão: Recomenda-se o uso dessa mesma estratégia em outros estudos, adaptando-a aos diferentes contextos e situações.

ABSTRACT: Purpose: Methodological paper aiming to describe the development of a digital and self-reported food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), created to the 1982 and 1993 Pelotas Birth Cohorts. Methods: The instrument was created based on FFQs previously applied to subjects belonging to both cohorts in the 2004 and 2008 follow-ups. The FFQ was developed including 88 foods and/or meals where frequencies were clustered from a minimum of never or once/month to a maximum of greater than or equal to 5 times/day. The closed options related to portions were based on a 24-hour recall previously asked to a subsample from the 1993 cohort. Three options for portions were created: equal to, less than or greater than. Equal to portion was described based on the 50 percentile of each food consumed reported in a 24-hour recall. Photographs of portions related to the 50 percentile for each food were also included in the software. Results: This digital FFQ included food and meals based on the needs of current researches. The layout of the software was attractive to the staff members as well as to the cohort members. The responding time was 12 minutes and the software allowed several individuals to use it at the same time. Moreover, this instrument dismissed interviewers and double data entry. Conclusion: It is recommended the use of the same strategy in other studies, adapted to different contexts and situations.

[Frequency of adherence to the "10 Steps to Healthy Eating" among school-aged adolescents]. / Frequência de adesão aos "10 Passos para uma Alimentação Saudável" em escolares adolescentes.

The scope of this study was to evaluate the frequency of adherence to "10 Steps to Healthy Eating" of the Ministry of Health in adolescents from high schools in Pelotas in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted, including 1233 adolescents (13-19 years of age). The frequency of each step was evaluated through a questionnaire on food frequency and other issues included in the "10 Steps." The average number of steps achieved was 1.8. It is noteworthy that none of the subjects achieved entirely all the recommended steps. The highest frequency of compliance was found in step 4, referring to the consumption of the rice and beans. Lower frequencies of adherence were found for step 7, related to consumption of soft drinks, processed juices, sweets and snacks, and also step 3 on the consumption of fruit/vegetables/greens. Adherence to the "10 steps to Healthy Eating" by adolescents was very low. Considering the importance of healthy eating in adolescence, greater investment in public policies in the area of food and nutrition is strongly recommended.

Frequência de adesão aos "10 Passos para uma Alimentação Saudável" em escolares adolescentes / Frequency of adherence to the "10 Steps to Healthy Eating" among school-aged adolescents

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a frequência de adesão aos "10 Passos para uma Alimentação Saudável" do Ministério da Saúde, em adolescentes de escolas de Ensino médio de Pelotas (RS). Foi realizado um estudo transversal de base escolar incluindo 1233 adolescentes de 13 a 19 anos. A frequência de cada passo foi coletada através de um questionário de frequência de consumo de alguns alimentos e outros aspectos contidos nos "10 Passos". A média de passos alcançados foi de 1,8. Ressalta-se que nenhum adolescente aderiu a todos os passos recomendados A maior frequência de adesão foi encontrada no passo 4, referente ao consumo de arroz e feijão; e menores frequência de adesão nos passos 7, referentes ao consumo de refrigerantes, sucos industrializados, doces e guloseimas, e passo 3, relativo ao consumo de Frutas/legumes/hortaliças. A adesão aos "10 passos para uma alimentação saudável" pelos adolescentes foi muito baixa. Considerando a importância de uma alimentação saudável na adolescência, recomenda-se maior investimento em políticas públicas na área de alimentação e nutrição.

The scope of this study was to evaluate the frequency of adherence to "10 Steps to Healthy Eating" of the Ministry of Health in adolescents from high schools in Pelotas in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted, including 1233 adolescents (13-19 years of age). The frequency of each step was evaluated through a questionnaire on food frequency and other issues included in the "10 Steps." The average number of steps achieved was 1.8. It is noteworthy that none of the subjects achieved entirely all the recommended steps. The highest frequency of compliance was found in step 4, referring to the consumption of the rice and beans. Lower frequencies of adherence were found for step 7, related to consumption of soft drinks, processed juices, sweets and snacks, and also step 3 on the consumption of fruit/vegetables/greens. Adherence to the "10 steps to Healthy Eating" by adolescents was very low. Considering the importance of healthy eating in adolescence, greater investment in public policies in the area of food and nutrition is strongly recommended.

[Factors associated with excess weight in Brazilian children under five years of age]. / Fatores associados ao excesso de peso em crianças brasileiras menores de cinco anos.

The scope of the study was to identify factors associated with excess weight in Brazilian children less than five years of age. Data from a cross-sectional home-based study entitled the National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) of 2006 were used. The diagnosis of excess weight was performed using the weight-for-height greater than 2 z scores above the median anthropometric standard recommended by the World Health Organization in 2006. The population under study consisted of 4,388 children. The prevalence of excess weight in children was described according to socio-economic, demographic, anthropometric, and behavioral variables. Crude and adjusted analyses were carried out to assess statistical significance stratified by gender using Poisson regression. The prevalence of excess weight was 6.6%. After adjusting for potential confounding factors, maternal body mass index and birth weight were associated with excess weight. Furthermore, being overweight was associated with exclusive breastfeeding for boys and with the socio-economic level and marital status of the mother for girls. The need to implement public policies that act on the major determinants of excess weight since childhood is emphasized.

Consumo de leite e derivados entre adultos e idosos no Sul do Brasil: um estudo de base populacional / Consumption of dairy products by adults and the elderly in the south of Brazil: a population-based study

Estudo transversal de base populacional que avaliou a frequência de consumo de leite e derivados, segundo características demográficas e socioeconômicas entre adultos e idosos da cidade de Pelotas (RS). A frequência de consumo de leite e derivados foi medida por meio de um roteiro com perguntas curtas e simples. Avaliou-se, também, a origem (leite de vaca, soja, outro) e teor de gordura do leite consumido (integral, semidesnatado, desnatado). Nas análises estatísticas foram utilizados testes qui-quadrado de heterogeneidade e de tendência linear. A prevalência de consumo regular de leite e/ou derivados foi 45,9%, sendo 1,7 vezes maior entre idosos comparado aqueles com 20-29 anos de idade. Uma maior prevalência também foi observada entre mulheres, indivíduos brancos e de maior escolaridade. Nível econômico mostrou associação inversa e significativa com o desfecho. Quase a totalidade da amostra toma leite de vaca e mais de três quartos, com teor de gordura integral. Cerca de um quarto dos adultos não tomam leite e destes, menos de 20% consomem diariamente algum derivado lácteo. O consumo de leite e derivados, sobretudo com reduzido teor de gordura, deve ser encorajado entre adultos. Atenção especial deve ser dada aos mais jovens, homens e aqueles de menor escolaridade e nível econômico.

This is a population-based cross-sectional study to evaluate the frequency of consumption of dairy products by adults and the elderly in Pelotas in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, in accordance with demographic, social and economic characteristics. Frequency of dairy product consumption was obtained by means of a questionnaire containing short, straightforward questions. Information about the type of milk (cow's milk, soy, other) and the fat contained in the milk consumed (full-cream, semi-skimmed and skimmed) was also investigated. Heterogeneity, linear trend and chi-square tests were used for the statistical analysis. The prevalence of regular dairy product consumption was 45.9%, and was 1.7 times higher among the elderly compared with 20 to 29-year-olds. Dairy product consumption frequency was higher among women, Caucasians and those with tertiary education. The economic level was significantly and inversely associated with the outcome. Nearly 98% of the sample drink cow's milk and 75.5% drink full-fat milk. About 26% of the adults do not drink milk and of these less than 20% consume dairy products daily. Dairy product consumption, especially low-fat products, should be encouraged among adults. Special attention should be given to younger individuals, males, and groups with less education and income.

[Consumption of dairy products by adults and the elderly in the south of Brazil: a population-based study]. / Consumo de leite e derivados entre adultos e idosos no Sul do Brasil: um estudo de base populacional.

This is a population-based cross-sectional study to evaluate the frequency of consumption of dairy products by adults and the elderly in Pelotas in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, in accordance with demographic, social and economic characteristics. Frequency of dairy product consumption was obtained by means of a questionnaire containing short, straightforward questions. Information about the type of milk (cow's milk, soy, other) and the fat contained in the milk consumed (full-cream, semi-skimmed and skimmed) was also investigated. Heterogeneity, linear trend and chi-square tests were used for the statistical analysis. The prevalence of regular dairy product consumption was 45.9%, and was 1.7 times higher among the elderly compared with 20 to 29-year-olds. Dairy product consumption frequency was higher among women, Caucasians and those with tertiary education. The economic level was significantly and inversely associated with the outcome. Nearly 98% of the sample drink cow's milk and 75.5% drink full-fat milk. About 26% of the adults do not drink milk and of these less than 20% consume dairy products daily. Dairy product consumption, especially low-fat products, should be encouraged among adults. Special attention should be given to younger individuals, males, and groups with less education and income.

Consumo de carnes por adolescentes do Sul do Brasil / Meat consumption among Southern Brazilian adolescents

OBJETIVO: Descrever a frequência de consumo de diferentes tipos de carnes conforme variáveis sociodemográficas e nutricionais, e analisar o consumo, em adolescentes do Sul do Brasil, de dieta rica em gordura conforme os tipos de carne consumidos. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal realizado com adolescentes pertencentes à coorte de nascimentos de 1993, em Pelotas (RS). A frequência de consumo de carnes vermelhas, brancas, vísceras e embutidos foi avaliada por um Questionário de Frequência de Consumo Alimentar, adaptado para este estudo. A ingestão de dieta rica em gordura foi avaliada a partir do instrumento proposto por Block. As variáveis independentes foram sexo, cor da pele, nível socioeconômico, escolaridade materna e estado nutricional. Nas análises estatísticas, foram utilizados testes Qui-quadrado de heterogeneidade e de tendência linear. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliados 4.325 adolescentes com idade média de 14,7, DP=0,3 anos, dos quais 51,2% eram do sexo feminino. A frequência de consumo diário de carnes vermelhas foi maior do que a de carnes brancas (43,0% e 9,7%, respectivamente). O consumo de embutidos por mais do que quatro vezes por semana foi referido por 48,5% dos indivíduos, e 81,4% relataram consumir vísceras raramente ou nunca. Adolescentes de maior nível socioeconômico e filhos de mães com maior escolaridade apresentaram maior consumo de carnes vermelhas e embutidos, enquanto aqueles em situação oposta apresentaram maior consumo de carnes brancas. Adolescentes que consomem carnes com maior frequência também consomem dieta rica em gordura. CONCLUSÃO: As carnes consumidas com maior frequência pelos adolescentes foram as vermelhas e os embutidos. No entanto, adolescentes de maior nível socioeconômico consomem carnes vermelhas com maior frequência, enquanto adolescentes menos favorecidos economicamente consomem mais carnes brancas.

OBJECTIVE: The present study investigated the consumption frequency of various meats according to sociodemographic and nutritional variables and analyzed the consumption of high-fat diets according to type of meat by southern Brazilian adolescents. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included the 1993 birth cohort from Pelotas (RS). The consumption frequency of red, white and organ meats and sausage were investigated by a food frequency questionnaire adapted for this study. Dietary fat content was determined as proposed by Block. The independent variables were gender, skin color, socioeconomic level, maternal education level and nutritional status. The statistical analyses included the Chi-square linear tendency test and the Chi-square test of homogeneity. RESULTS: A total of 4,325 adolescents with a mean age of 14.7 years, SD=0.3 years, were assessed, of which 51.2% were females. Red meat was consumed more frequently daily than white meat (43.0% and 9.7%, respectively). Sausage consumption frequency greater than 4 times per week was reported by 48.5% of the sample, and 81.4% reported to consume organ meats rarely or never. Adolescents of higher socioeconomic levels and of mothers with higher education levels consumed more red meats and sausages, while those in the opposite situation consumed more white meats. Adolescents who consumed meats more frequently also consumed a high-fat diet. CONCLUSION: Red meats and sausages were the meats most frequently consumed by the study adolescents. However, adolescents of higher socioeconomic levels consumed red meats more often, while those of lower socioeconomic levels consumed white meats more often.

Manutenção dos padrões alimentares da infância à adolescência / Tracking of dietary patterns from childhood to adolescence / Mantenimiento de los patrones alimenticios de la infancia a la adolescencia

OBJETIVO: Revisar a literatura científica sobre a continuidade dos padrões alimentares da infância à adolescência. MÉTODOS: Foram realizadas buscas nas bases de dados MEDLINE/PubMed, Lilacs e SciELO utilizando os seguintes termos: "tracking", "dietary patterns" e "childhood/adolescence" e sinônimos. Foram encontrados 45 resumos e, após aplicação dos critérios de inclusão, 13 artigos foram incluídos. A continuidade do padrão foi avaliada por três principais análises estatísticas: coeficientes de correlação (Pearson ou Spearman), coeficiente kappa e análise de probabilidades. RESULTADOS: A continuidade do padrão alimentar foi de fraca a moderada entre os períodos infância-infância e infância-adolescência. Parece não haver continuidade na adolescência. CONCLUSÕES: Os padrões alimentares da infância podem persistir até a adolescência, embora no transcorrer da adolescência possam ser alterados ou descontinuados.

OBJECTIVE: To review the scientific literature on the tracking of dietary patterns from childhood to adolescence. METHODS: A search of the MEDLINE/PubMed, Lilacs and SciELO databases was performed, using the following key words: "tracking", "dietary patterns" and "childhood/adolescence" and their respective synonyms. A total of 45 abstracts were found and, after the inclusion criteria were applied, 13 articles were included. The tracking of dietary patterns was assessed by three main statistical analyses: (Pearson or Spearman) correlation coefficients, kappa coefficient and probability analysis. RESULTS: The tracking of dietary patterns ranged from weak to moderate between the childhood-childhood and childhood-adolescence periods. During adolescence, there appears to be no tracking. CONCLUSIONS: Dietary patterns in childhood may continue until adolescence, although such patterns may be changed or discontinued throughout adolescence.

OBJETIVO: Revisar la literatura científica sobre la continuidad de los patrones alimenticios de la infancia a la adolescencia. MÉTODOS: Se realizaron búsquedas en las bases de datos MEDLINE/PubMed, Lilacs y SciELO utilizando los siguientes términos: "tracking", "dietary patterns" y "childhood/adolescente" y sinónimos. Se encontraron 45 resúmenes y posterior a la aplicación de los criterios de inclusión, 13 artículos fueron adjuntados. La continuidad del patrón fue evaluada por tres principales análisis estadísticos: coeficientes de correlación (Pearson o Spearman), coeficiente kappa y análisis de probabilidades. RESULTADOS: La continuidad del patrón alimenticio fue débil a moderada entre los períodos infancia-infancia e infancia-adolescencia. Parece no haber continuidad en la adolescencia. CONCLUSIONES: Los patrones alimenticios de la infancia pueden persistir hasta la adolescencia, a pesar de no transcurrir de la adolescencia pueden ser alterados o descontinuados.

Tracking of dietary patterns from childhood to adolescence.

OBJECTIVE: To review the scientific literature on the tracking of dietary patterns from childhood to adolescence. METHODS: A search of the MEDLINE/PubMed, Lilacs and SciELO databases was performed, using the following key words: "tracking", "dietary patterns" and "childhood/adolescence" and their respective synonyms. A total of 45 abstracts were found and, after the inclusion criteria were applied, 13 articles were included. The tracking of dietary patterns was assessed by three main statistical analyses: (Pearson or Spearman) correlation coefficients, kappa coefficient and probability analysis. RESULTS: The tracking of dietary patterns ranged from weak to moderate between the childhood-childhood and childhood-adolescence periods. During adolescence, there appears to be no tracking. CONCLUSIONS: Dietary patterns in childhood may continue until adolescence, although such patterns may be changed or discontinued throughout adolescence.

[Prevalence of intestinal constipation and associated factors: a population-based study in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, 2007]. / Prevalência e fatores associados à constipação intestinal: um estudo de base populacional em Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, 2007.

The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of intestinal constipation and associated factors in adults 20 years and older. A cross-sectional study was conducted in the rural area of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, in 2007. Intestinal constipation was defined according to the Rome III criteria. The study began with a descriptive analysis, followed by bivariate and multivariate analyses using Poisson regression. Prevalence of intestinal constipation was 26.9% (95%CI: 25.1-28.8). Women had 2.5 times more constipation than men (36.8% vs. 13.9%). The adjusted analysis showed that risk factors for men were age (>60 years), skin color (black/brown), and low economic status. Among women, age was inversely related, i.e., having a protective effect among the elderly. Intestinal constipation is common in this population. Associated factors were the same for men and women, except socioeconomic status, which showed no association in women.

Prevalencia e fatores associados a constipacao intestinal: um estudo de base populacional em Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, 2007 / Prevalence of intestinal constipation and associated factors: a population-based study in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, 2007

Estimar a prevalencia de constipacao intestinal e fatores associados entre adultos de 20 anos ou mais. Estudo transversal de base populacional conduzido na zona urbana de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, 2007. Constipacao intestinal foi definida de acordo com os criterios de Roma III. Inicialmente foi realizada a analise descritiva e, posteriormente, utilizou-se Regressao de Poisson, as analises bi e multivariaveis. A prevalencia de constipacao intestinal encontrada foi de 26,9 por cento (IC95 por cento: 25,1-28,8). As mulheres apresentaram 2,5 vezes mais constipacao que os homens (36,8 por cento vs. 13,9 por cento). Entre os homens, na analise ajustada, mostraram-se como fatores de risco idade maior que 60 anos, cor da pele preta/parda e menor nivel economico. Entre as mulheres, idade teve relacao inversa com o desfecho, apresentando efeito protetor entre as idosas. Constipacao intestinal e relativamente comum na populacao estudada. Os fatores associados a essa doenca foram os mesmos entre homens e mulheres, exceto o nivel economico, que nao se mostrou associado entre as mulheres.

The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of intestinal constipation and associated factors in adults 20 years and older. A cross-sectional study was conducted in the rural area of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, in 2007. Intestinal constipation was defined according to the Rome III criteria. The study began with a descriptive analysis, followed by bivariate and multivariate analyses using Poisson regression. Prevalence of intestinal constipation was 26.9 percent (95 percentCI: 25.1-28.8). Women had 2.5 times more constipation than men (36.8 percent vs. 13.9 percent). The adjusted analysis showed that risk factors for men were age (> 60 years), skin color (black/brown), and low economic status. Among women, age was inversely related, i.e., having a protective effect among the elderly. Intestinal constipation is common in this population. Associated factors were the same for men and women, except socioeconomic status, which showed no association in women.