Género, infodemia y desinformación en salud. Revisión de alcance global, vacíos de conocimiento y recomendaciones.

OBJETIVO: explorar el estado de la literatura científica sobre los aspectos de infodemia y desinformación en salud vinculados al género y a la interseccionalidad, detectar vacíos de conocimiento y brindar recomendaciones. MÉTODOS: revisión de alcance global, con la detección de vacíos de conocimiento y recomendaciones. Se buscó en ocho bases de datos: MEDLINE (Pubmed), Anthropological Index Online, Studies on Women & Gender Abstracts, LILACS, Scielo, Global Index Medicus, Web of Science, Google académico y se hizo una búsqueda manual en Google de documentos de los últimos 10 años, sin restricciones de idioma y geográficas. Se realizó un análisis de contenido de los estudios incluidos. RESULTADOS: 855 registros fueron identificados y 21 cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. Predominan los estudios que tuvieron como primer autor/a una mujer (13/21), aunque en la autoría global se destacaron los hombres (10/21). El modelo binario fue el enfoque principal (16/21). La mayoría (18/21) se publicaron a partir del 2020. Se abordaron principalmente temas relacionados con la COVID-19 y la salud sexual y reproductiva (antes de la pandemia), y en menor medida la salud mental. Se identificaron interacciones entre diferencias de sexo/género en la desinformación/infodemia en salud especialmente en mujeres, colectivos de género diverso, personas mayores y población de bajo nivel socioeducativo. CONCLUSIONES: existen brechas de conocimiento en el tema explorado, con escaso número de estudios, y limitaciones de alcances y del enfoque de género y/o feminista (más allá del binario). No obstante, los resultados tentativos constatan la presencia de inequidades de género e interseccionalidad en la desinformación en salud. PALABRAS CLAVE: infodemia, desinformación, género, COVID-19, revisión sistemática.

Effectiveness of peer mentoring and self-monitoring to improve blood pressure control in a vulnerable population in Argentina: Pragmatic randomized open-label controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of blood pressure (BP) self-monitoring and peer mentoring to improve the control of hypertension in clinical practice in primary care centers (PCCs) located in low-resource settings in Argentina. METHODS: An individual randomized controlled trial was carried out to test two different approaches based on behavioral interventions in PCCs in Argentina. Hypertensive adults were randomly assigned to one of three arms: BP self-monitoring, peer mentoring, and usual care. The primary outcome was the change in BP values from baseline to the end of follow-up at 3 months. A qualitative approach of participants' experiences of the peer mentoring arm was also conducted. RESULTS: A total of 442 participants with hypertension were included in the study. Self-monitoring and peer mentoring interventions did not show a significant difference in BP control compared to usual care. However, this trial showed an improvement regarding antihypertensive medication adherence among those assigned to the peer mentoring intervention compared to the control at the end of follow-up (p = 0.031). DISCUSSION: Self-monitoring and peer mentoring interventions did not demonstrate to be effective in BP control compared to usual care. Implementing a peer support strategy was demonstrated to be feasible and effective in improving medication adherence in this population.

Effectiveness of a diabetes program based on digital health on capacity building and quality of care in type 2 diabetes: a pragmatic quasi-experimental study.

Health systems in Latin America face many challenges in controlling the increasing burden of diabetes. Digital health interventions are a promise for the provision of care, especially in developing countries where mobile technology has a high penetration. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the implementation of a Diabetes Program (DP) that included digital health interventions to improve the quality of care of persons with type 2 Diabetes (T2DM) in a vulnerable population attending the public primary care network. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A quasi-experimental pre-post uncontrolled study was conducted in 19 primary care centers and hospitals in the province of Corrientes, Argentina. We included persons with T2DM, age > = 18 years with access to a mobile phone. The multicomponent intervention included a mobile app with a diabetes registry, a clinical decision support tool for providers and a text messaging intervention for patients. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: One thousand sixty-five participants were included, 72.8% had less than 12 years of formal education and 53.5% lacked health coverage. Comorbidities were hypertension (60.8%) and overweight/obesity (88.2%). During follow-up there was a significant increase in the proportion of participants who underwent laboratory check-ups (HbA1c 20.3%-64.4%; p < 0.01) and foot exams (62.1%-87.2%; p < 0.01). No changes were observed at 12 and 24 months in the proportion of participants with poor metabolic control. The proportion of participants with uncontrolled blood pressure (≥ 140/90 mmHg) decreased from 47.2% at baseline to 30.8% at 24 months in those with a follow-up visit. CONCLUSION: The DP was innovative by integrating digital health interventions in the public primary care level. The study showed improvements in quality indicators related with diabetes care processes and in blood pressure control.

Gender and social protection and health policies promoted during the COVID-19 pandemic: Global scoping review and future challenges.

Background: Governmental interventions have been important tools for mitigating COVID-19 transmission, but they have also negatively impacted different gender-related components. We aimed to answer the following questions: What is the scope of the gender approach in the literature analysing health and social protection policies promoted during the COVID-19 pandemic? What are the challenges and recommendations for gender-sensitive policies for the post-pandemic and future crises? Methods: The study design is based on three stages: a global synthesis of the evidence through a scoping review, the generation of a framework of emerging inequalities based on sociocultural markers, and the creation of a matrix with the challenges and recommendations. In this scoping review, we searched 10 online databases for studies published until April 2022 and conducted a content analysis on the extracted studies. Results: Of the 771 identified records, 67 met our inclusion criteria. Most studies had a female person (52/67) as the first author. The binary model was the main approach addressed in the studies (61/67). The literature showed that the closure, distancing, and other social policies did not include a gender approach and generated negative gaps related to economic instability, reproductive roles, and gender violence. In the intersectionality dimension, multiple aspects emerged (macro, meso, micro-social level, and individual level). Greater gender gaps in connection with employment (related to increased housework) were observed during the closure and distancing stage of the pandemic. Asymmetries related to female participation in the management of the pandemic and an increase in discrimination and abuse of diversity groups were detected. Conclusions: We observed gaps both in the gender approach both in knowledge and in policy implementation during the pandemic in the different countries explored in this work. This is a call to attention and action for researchers, political decision-makers, and other interested parties to incorporate and accentuate the gender perspective in all policies related to the post-pandemic period and future social and health crises.

The Use of 2 e-Learning Modalities for Diabetes Education Using Facebook in 2 Cities of Argentina During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Qualitative Study.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic and the confinement that was implemented in Argentina generated a need to implement innovative tools for the strengthening of diabetes care. Diabetes self-management education (DSME) is a core element of diabetes care; however, because of COVID-19 restrictions, in-person diabetes educational activities were suspended. Social networks have played an instrumental role in this context to provide DSME in 2 cities of Argentina and help persons with diabetes in their daily self-management. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate 2 diabetes education modalities (synchronous and asynchronous) using the social media platform Facebook through the content of posts on diabetes educational sessions in 2 cities of Argentina during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: In this qualitative study, we explored 2 modalities of e-learning (synchronous and asynchronous) for diabetes education that used the Facebook pages of public health institutions in Chaco and La Rioja, Argentina, in the context of confinement. Social media metrics and the content of the messages posted by users were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 332 messages were analyzed. We found that in the asynchronous modality, there was a higher number of visualizations, while in the synchronous modality, there were more posts and interactions between educators and users. We also observed that the number of views increased when primary care clinics were incorporated as disseminators, sharing educational videos from the sessions via social media. Positive aspects were observed in the posts, consisting of messages of thanks and, to a lesser extent, reaffirmations, reflections or personal experiences, and consultations related to the subject treated. Another relevant finding was that the educator/moderator role had a greater presence in the synchronous modality, where posts were based on motivation for participation, help to resolve connectivity problems, and answers to specific user queries. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings show positive contributions of an educational intervention for diabetes care using the social media platform Facebook in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although each modality (synchronous vs asynchronous) could have differential and particular advantages, we believe that these strategies have potential to be replicated and adapted to other contexts. However, more documented experiences are needed to explore their sustainability and long-term impact from the users' perspective.

[Health promotion initiatives aimed at young adults. Qualitative study]. / Iniciativas de promoción de la salud destinadas a adultos jóvenes. Estudio cualitativo.

Introduction: Introduction. Health promotion initiatives, even more those promoted by the State, play a fundamental and strategic role in the construction of healthy lifestyles. The objective was to explore from the perspective of a group of young adults from the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, dimensions and qualitative categories related to health promotion community initiatives with a focus on healthy diet, physical activity, and smoking cessation. Methods: A qualitative phenomenological study were conducted, including sixteen in-depth interviews with people under 40 years of age. Results: Were found and explored that interventions through websites, email, social networks, application- Mobile App (App), calls, text messages (SMS), printed material, or brief advice. The most acceptable interventions were: website, social networks, and the App. The potential use of these interventions would be related by the inclusion of audiovisual elements and personalized messages. Conclusion: The findings indicate that interventions that include social networks, App and web would have greater potential among young adults to promote healthy lifestyles.

Introducción: Las iniciativas de promoción de salud, más aún las impulsadas desde el Estado, juegan un papel fundamental y estratégico en torno a la construcción de estilos de vida saludables. El objetivo fue explorar desde la perspectiva de un grupo de adultos jóvenes de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires dimensiones y categorías cualitativas relacionadas a iniciativas comunitarias de promoción de la salud con foco en alimentación saludable, actividad física y cesación tabáquica. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio cualitativo de carácter fenomenológico incluyendo 16 entrevistas en profundidad a personas menores de 40 años. Resultados: Se identificaron y exploraron intervenciones a través de sitios web, correo electrónico, redes sociales, aplicativo-App móvil (App), llamadas, mensajes de texto-SMS, material impreso o asesoría breve. Las intervenciones de mayor aceptabilidad fueron: sitio web, redes sociales y App. El uso potencial de las intervenciones estaría relacionado con la inclusión de elementos audiovisuales y los mensajes personalizados. Conclusión: Nuestros hallazgos indican que las intervenciones que incluyan redes sociales, App y web tendrían mayor potencial para promover estilos de vida saludables entre los adultos jóvenes.

Transparencia y acceso a la información pública de la política alimentaria de comedores escolares, Argentina / Transparency and access to public information on the food policy of school canteens, Argentina

Introducción: La transparencia y el acceso a la información pública son mecanismos importantes que facilitan y posibilitan políticas públicas participativas. Sin embargo, existen escasos antecedentes que apliquen sus principios a las políticas alimentarias y nutricionales. Objetivo: Explorar el estado actual de la transparencia de la política alimentaria de comedores escolares en Argentina a través de las posibilidades de acceso a la información pública. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo, transversal y exploratorio con métodos cuantitativos y cualitativos a partir del análisis de documentos gubernamentales publicados hasta el año 2019 en los sitios web de ministerios a nivel nacional y de las 24 jurisdicciones del país. Se utilizó la técnica de análisis de contenido y triangulación por observador. Se incluyeron 308 documentos. Resultados: Veinte jurisdicciones contaron con normativa para el acceso a la información pública y seis no tuvieron regulaciones para los comedores escolares. En cualquier escenario normativo (con/sin ley sobre el acceso a la información pública) fue escaso el acceso a la información de las políticas de comedores escolares. Los aspectos más críticos fueron: indicadores, periodo de implementación de los servicios alimentarios, presupuestos, presencia de enfoque de accesibilidad universal y articulación con otras políticas sociales. Conclusiones: Se necesita de manera urgente aplicar criterios de transparencia a las políticas de comedores escolares. Los gobiernos a nivel nacional y subnacional deben demostrar un mayor compromiso para garantizar el derecho al acceso a la información pública en las políticas alimentarias y nutricionales y consolidar los entornos virtuales como principal herramienta para aproximar el Estado a la ciudadanía(AU)

Introduction: Transparency and access to public information are important mechanisms that facilitate and enable participatory public policies. However, there is little precedent for applying its principles to food and nutrition policies. Objective: Explore the current state of transparency of the food policy of school canteens in Argentina through the chances of access to public information. Methods: Descriptive, cross-sectional and exploratory study with quantitative and qualitative methods based on analysis of government documents published until 2019 on the websites of ministries at the national level and of the 24 jurisdictions of the country. The technique of content analysis and triangulation by observer was used. 308 documents were included. Results: Twenty jurisdictions had regulations for access to public information and six had no regulations for school canteens. In any regulatory scenario (with/without a law on access to public information) access to information on school canteen policies was scarce. The most critical aspects were: indicators, period of implementation of food services, budgets, presence of a universal accessibility approach and articulation with other social policies. Conclusions: There is an urgent need to apply transparency criteria to school canteen policies. Governments at the national and sub-national levels must show a greater commitment to guarantee the right to access public information in food and nutrition policies and consolidate virtual environments as the main tool to bring the State closer to citizens(AU)

[Communication products for COVID-19 prevention promoted by governments in Latin America and the CaribbeanProdutos de comunicação para a prevenção da COVID-19 promovidos pelos governos da América Latina e do Caribe]. / Productos comunicacionales para la prevención de la COVID-19 promovidos por los gobiernos de América Latina y el Caribe.

OBJECTIVE: Characterize the content of communication products for COVID-19 prevention promoted by governments in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) for the general public. METHODS: A descriptive, cross-cutting, and exploratory study of the communication products for COVID-19 prevention published up to 28 February 2021 on official websites of the ministries of health of the 47 countries and territories of LAC. Quantitative and qualitative methods based on the dimensions recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) were employed, together with a social determinants of health (SDH) approach. The content analysis technique and investigator triangulation were used to improve internal validity. RESULTS: 3 253 information products were analyzed. In 47 countries and territories in LAC at least one product included a WHO recommendation; and in 46 at least one category or subcategory related to intermediate SDHs was addressed. Regarding structural SDHs, a gender approach was used in at least one product in only four countries, and an indigenous language in only seven countries. In 35 countries, at least one product was found to have erroneous information and in 13 countries the infodemic was not addressed. CONCLUSIONS: A substantial number of communication products for COVID-19 prevention were found, but they lacked an adequate diversity approach and comprehensive health approach, and they showed gaps and communication errors. The countries should review their health communication policies in the context of the pandemic.

OBJETIVO: Caracterizar o conteúdo dos produtos de comunicação dirigidos à população em geral, para a prevenção da COVID-19, promovidos pelos governos da América Latina e do Caribe (ALC). MÉTODOS: Estudo descritivo, transversal e exploratório dos produtos de comunicação publicados até 28 de fevereiro de 2021 nos sites oficiais dos ministérios da Saúde de 47 países e territórios da ALC para a prevenção da COVID-19. Foram utilizados métodos quantitativos e qualitativos com base nas dimensões recomendadas pela Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) e enfoque nos determinantes sociais da saúde (DSS). Foram utilizadas as técnicas de análise de conteúdo e triangulação de investigador. RESULTADOS: Foram analisados 3 253 produtos de informação. Nos 47 países e territórios da ALC, pelo menos um produto incluiu alguma recomendação da OMS, e em 46, foram abordadas algumas das categorias e subcategorias relacionadas aos DSS intermediários. Dos DSS estruturais, foram utilizados enfoque de gênero e alguma língua indígena em pelo menos um produto de apenas 4 e 7 países, respectivamente. Em 35 países foi encontrado pelo menos um produto com informações errôneas, e em 13 não foi abordada a infodemia. CONCLUSÕES: Foi encontrado um número considerável de produtos de comunicação para a prevenção da COVID-19; entretanto, eles não refletiam uma abordagem adequada à diversidade e à saúde integral, e apresentavam lacunas e erros de comunicação. Os países devem revisar suas políticas de comunicação em saúde no contexto da pandemia.

Adaptación y confiabilidad inter-observador de un protocolo para evaluar la disponibilidad de alimentos en supermercados en Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Introducción: La Red Internacional para la Investigación, Monitoreo y Apoyo a la Acción para la Alimentación, Obesidad y Enfermedades No Transmisibles (INFORMAS por su sigla en inglés) ha desarrollado el Protocolo para evaluar la Disponibilidad de Alimentos en Supermercados. Objetivos: Describir el proceso de adaptación del protocolo para utilizarlo en la Ciudad de Buenos Aires (BA) y evaluar la variabilidad inter-observador al aplicarlo en supermercados de la ciudad. Metodología: El principal indicador del protocolo es la disponibilidad relativa de alimentos saludables (AS) vs. no saludables (ANS), calculado como el cociente entre la longitud (m) de estantes asignados a AS y ANS (longitudAS/ANS). Se adaptó la selección de alimentos a incluir en el indicador para utilizarlo en BA. Para explorar el funcionamiento del indicador se construyó una referencia, midiendo todos los alimentos y bebidas ofrecidos en 5 supermercados, que se clasificaron en AS y ANS según las guías alimentarias argentinas. El indicador se comparó con la disponibilidad relativa calculada a partir de la referencia. Para evaluar la confiabilidad inter-observador dos observadores realizaron mediciones en tres supermercados y se calculó el coeficiente de correlación intra-clase (CCI). Resultados: Según la referencia, el cociente longitudAS/ANS varió entre 0,16 y 0,61, con una media de 0,34 (DE 0,18). El indicador adaptado produjo resultados similares con una diferencia media de -0,05 (DE 0,04). El CCI entre la mediciones de ambos observadores resultó 0,92 (IC95% 0,86-0,98). Conclusión: Se adaptó el protocolo para aplicarlo en BA, con modificaciones en los alimentos a evaluar y una adecuada confiabilidad inter-observador.

Social and gender determinants related to health inequities in a community in Argentina / [Determinantes sociales y de género relacionados a las inequidades de salud en una comunidad de Argentina]

Introduction: The study analyzes social and gender health realities regarding access to public health systems in the Argentine interior. Objective: to analyze the relationship between social determinants, gender, with inequities of access in frequent users of the public health system in a region of Argentina. Methods: Descriptive, cross-sectional and analytical study, data collected between March and November 2018 by maximum variation sampling, with analysis of absolute, relative frequencies, standard error, confidence intervals; Multivariate logistic regression analysis with 95% CI and statistical significance of p <0.05. Results: With an n = 345, in an adjusted model, being a woman increased the risk of having problems in accessing the health system 2.2 times more (p = 0.032). People with a primary education level or less are 2.4 times more at risk of paying values ​​equal to or greater than $ 71.4 for health care in the public health system compared to those with a higher educational level (p = 0.000). No statistically significant associations were found between urban / rural location, with the variables of inconveniences in access to health care and out-of-pocket spending. Conclusion: Social inequities measured by level of education and gender have a negative impact on the scope of the right to universal access to health in the analyzed population. It is recommended to review state initiatives that seek to reduce health inequities from a perspective of social and gender determinants.

Introducción: El estudio analiza realidades sanitarias sociales y de género en cuanto al acceso a los sistemas públicos de salud del interior argentino. Objetivo: analizar la relación entre determinantes sociales, género, con inequidades de acceso en usuarios frecuentes del sistema público de salud de una región de Argentina. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo, transversal y analítico, datos relevados entre  marzo y noviembre del 2018 por muestreo de variación máxima, con análisis de frecuencias absolutas, relativas, error estándar, intervalos de confianza; análisis multivariado de regresión logística con IC del 95% y significancia estadística de p<0,05. Resultados: Con un n=345, en modelo ajustado, el ser mujer aumento 2,2 veces más el riesgo de tener inconvenientes en el acceso al sistema de salud (p=0,032).  Las personas con nivel educativo primario o menor tienen 2,4 veces más de riesgo de pagar valores iguales o mayores a 71,4 dólares por atención en salud en sistema sanitario público con respecto  a los de mayor nivel educativo (p=0,000). No se encontraron asociaciones estadísticamente significativas entre localización urbana/rural, con las variables de inconvenientes en el acceso a la atención de salud y el gasto de bolsillo. Conclusión: Las inequidades sociales medido por nivel de educación y género tienen un impacto negativo en el alcance del derecho al acceso universal de salud en población analizada. Se recomienda revisar iniciativas estatales que busquen reducir inequidades en salud desde un enfoque de determinantes sociales y de género.

Conocimientos, percepciones y uso del rotulado de alimentos y bebidas en un grupo de adolescentes de Argentina / Knowledge, perceptions and use of food and beverage labeling in a group of adolescents in Argentina

RESUMEN Introducción El rotulado de alimentos es una herramienta importante para mejorar la nutrición y fortalecer la ciudadanía de los consumidores en las primeras etapas de la vida y en la adolescencia. Objetivo Explorar los conocimientos, percepciones y el uso del rotulado de alimentos y bebidas en un grupo de adolescentes de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Argentina, para el año 2019. Metodología Diseño cualitativo con enfoque fenomenológico. La recolección de datos se realizó a través de una encuesta semiestructurada y grupos focales con selección de 29 estudiantes. Los resultados fueron analizados mediante la técnica de análisis de contenido. Resultados El rótulo de alimentos tuvo baja utilización. El grupo de adolescentes reconoció la importancia que tendría su uso en la salud de las personas. Se observó una baja potencial utilización a futuro. Se encontraron diferencias de género en la percepción sobre la importancia que se le asigna a la alimentación. Los adolescentes realizaron recomendaciones de posibles mejoras de las etiquetas que incluya una perspectiva inclusiva. Conclusión El nivel de conocimientos, el uso efectivo del rotulado de alimentos y la potencial utilización a futuro por parte de los/las adolescentes fue baja. Se recomienda repensar el diseño y generar estrategias de salud pública dirigidas a promover el uso de etiquetados nutricionales en grupos y contextos específicos.

ABSTRACT Introduction Food labeling is an important tool to improve nutrition and strengthen consumer citizenship from the early stages of life such as adolescence. Objective To explore the knowledge, perceptions and use of food and beverage labeling in a group of adolescents from the Province of Buenos Aires, Argentina, for the year 2019. Methodology Qualitative design with a phenomenological approach. Data collection was carried out through a semi-structured survey and focus groups with the selection of 29 students. The results were analyzed using the content analysis technique. Results The food label had low use. The group of adolescents recognized the importance that its use would have on people's health. A low potential use was observed in the future. Gender differences were found in the perception of the importance assigned to food. The adolescents made recommendations for possible improvements to the labels that include an inclusive perspective. Conclusion The level of knowledge, the effective use of food labeling and the potential future use by adolescents was low. It is recommended to rethink the design and generate public health strategies aimed at promoting the use of nutritional labels in specific groups and contexts.

Urban Retail Food Environments: Relative Availability and Prominence of Exhibition of Healthy vs. Unhealthy Foods at Supermarkets in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

There is growing evidence that the food environment can influence diets. The present study aimed to assess the relative availability and prominence of healthy foods (HF) versus unhealthy products (UP) in supermarkets in Buenos Aires, Argentina and to explore differences by retail characteristics and neighborhood income level. We conducted store audits in 32 randomly selected food retails. Food availability (presence/absence, ratio of cumulative linear shelf length for HF vs. UP) and prominence inside the store (location visibility) were measured based on the International Network for Food and Obesity/NCDs Research, Monitoring and Action Support (INFORMAS) protocol. On average, for every 1 m of shelf length for UP, there was about 25 cm of shelf length for HF (HF/UP ratio: 0.255, SD 0.130). UP were more frequently available in high-prominence store areas (31/32 retails) than HF (9/32 retails). Shelf length ratio differed across commercial chains (p = 0.0268), but not by store size or type. Retails in the lower-income neighborhoods had a lower HF/UP ratio than those in the higher-income neighborhoods (p = 0.0329). Availability of the selected HF was overcome largely by the UP, particularly in high prominence areas, and in neighborhoods with lower income level, which may pose an opportunity for public health interventions.

[An analysis of policy interventions regarding school lunch programs and their role in the healthy nutrition of children in Córdoba, Argentina]. / Análisis de la intervención de la política de comedores escolares y el rol en la nutrición saludable de niños y niñas de Córdoba, Argentina.

The aim of this article is to analyze school lunch programs and their role in the healthy nutrition of children in Córdoba, Argentina from 2013 to 2018. A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted that included a sample of 10 schools in 2013 and 10 different schools in 2018. A survey of school lunch programs and 24-hour nutrition reminders was carried out with 341 children. The nutritional value of school lunch programs decreased over the study period, particularly among schools in contexts of greater social vulnerability. Significant reductions in average calcium and energy intake were also observed. Indicators of chronic malnutrition, overweight, and excess calcium and vitamin A and C intakes worsened among children attending school lunch programs. Regarding the association between school lunch program attendance and low height for age/risk of low height for age, the odds ratio was not statistically significant. We argue for the necessity of promoting policies that seek urgent improvements in child nutritional indicators from a rights-based perspective.

El objetivo fue analizar la intervención de la política de comedores escolares y el rol en la nutrición saludable de niños y niñas de Córdoba, Argentina en los años 2013 y 2018. Estudio descriptivo y trasversal. La muestra incluyó diez escuelas en 2013 y diez diferentes en 2018. Se realizó un relevamiento de comedores escolares y recordatorios alimentarios 24 hs a 341 niñas y niños. Los aportes nutricionales de los comedores escolares descendieron entre ambos periodos, en especial, en las escuelas insertas en contexto de mayor vulnerabilidad. También se observó una reducción significativa de la ingesta media de calcio y energía total. En las niñas y los niños asistentes a los comedores escolares se encontraron indicadores de desnutrición crónica, exceso de peso e ingestas de calcio, vitamina A y C deficitarios. En la asociación entre la asistencia al comedor escolar y el indicador baja talla/riesgo de baja talla, el odds ratio no fue estadísticamente significativa. Resulta necesario impulsar una política que busque de manera urgente mejoras de los indicadores de nutrición infantil, considerando un enfoque de derechos.

Recomendaciones para los equipos que gestionan los comedores escolares en la emergencia sanitaria de COVID-19 en Argentina / Recommendations for the teams that manage school canteens in the public health emergency of COVID-19 in Argentina

El impacto de la pandemia causada por el COVID-19 puede profundizar las situaciones de malnutrición, donde será necesario adaptar los programas alimentarios a este nuevo contexto. El objetivo de este trabajo fue presentar la metodología y los principales resultados del proceso de formulación de una guía federal basada en la evidencia científica y adaptada a la realidad de la población infanto-juvenil que asiste a los comedores escolares de las 24 jurisdicciones de Argentina. Se observó que las modalidades de implementación de CE durante la pandemia fueron: módulos alimentarios (la más frecuente); módulos alimentarios entregados en la escuela con sostenimiento del CE regular y, viandas y/o refrigerios entregados diariamente. Existió escasa evidencia a nivel global y regional sobre recomendaciones específicas aplicadas a la implementación de CE, aunque se encontraron recomendaciones sobre higiene y manipulación de alimentos. A partir de un proceso participativo entre actores claves se obtuvieron recomendaciones específicas según las dimensiones de la seguridad alimentaria y nutricional (SAN). Se concluye que resulta necesario aumentar las experiencias participativas en el diseño de recomendaciones basadas en la evidencia, adaptadas al territorio y que asuman un enfoque integral desde las dimensiones de la SAN(AU)

The impact of the pandemic caused by COVID-19 may deepen the situations of malnutrition, where it will be necessary to adapt food programs to this new context. The objective of this work was to present the methodology and the main results of the process of formulating a federal guide based on scientific evidence and adapted to the reality of the child and adolescent population that attend school canteens in the 24 jurisdictions of Argentina. It was observed that the modalities for the implementation of SC during the pandemic were: food modules (the most frequent); food modules delivered at school with regular SC support and, food and/or snacks delivered daily. There was little evidence at the global and regional level on specific recommendations applied to the implementation of SC, although recommendations on hygiene and food handling were found. Based on a participatory process among key actors, specific recommendations were obtained according to the dimensions of food and nutrition security (FNS). It is concluded that it is necessary to increase participatory experiences in the design of recommendations based on evidence, adapted to the territory and that assume a comprehensive approach from the dimensions of FNS(AU)

Factors associated with hindering the acceptance of HPV vaccination among caregivers - A cross-sectional study in Argentina.

BACKGROUND: The northeastern region of Argentina has the highest age-adjusted cervical cancer mortality rates. Given the strong link between HPV infections and cervical cancer, one of the main interventions is the population-based use of HPV vaccines. However, the acceptability is not very clear in low- and middle-income countries. The purpose of this study was to estimate the level of HPV vaccine acceptance and associated determinants among caregivers of girls in a northeastern city of Argentina. METHODS: A school-based survey was conducted in 2015 using a multistage sampling method. The primary sample unit were schools stratified by socioeconomic status selected at random, and caregivers of school girls were interviewed. The acceptability was determined using the adapted Theory of Planned Behavior. We performed logistic regression models to assess associated determinants. RESULTS: The study included 347 caregivers. The intention to vaccinate was 59.88%. A positive attitude of caregivers (aOR 4.67; 3.11-7.03) and positive influence of social norms (aOR 1.95; 1.03-3.70) were the main predictors independently associated to the intention to vaccinate against HPV. In contrast, practicing a Christian non-Catholic religion decreased the intention to vaccinate against HPV (OR 0.59; 0.36-0.95). All other factors evaluated were not significantly associated with intention to vaccinate against HPV. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows that evaluating attitudes, normative social beliefs, and perceived self-efficacy regarding HPV vaccination can be of utmost importance for mapping and planning of health-related strategies in developing countries.

Análisis de la intervención de la política de comedores escolares y el rol en la nutrición saludable de niños y niñas de Córdoba, Argentina / An analysis of policy interventions regarding school lunch programs and their role in the healthy nutrition of children in Córdoba, Argentina

RESUMEN El objetivo fue analizar la intervención de la política de comedores escolares y el rol en la nutrición saludable de niños y niñas de Córdoba, Argentina en los años 2013 y 2018. Estudio descriptivo y trasversal. La muestra incluyó diez escuelas en 2013 y diez diferentes en 2018. Se realizó un relevamiento de comedores escolares y recordatorios alimentarios 24 hs a 341 niñas y niños. Los aportes nutricionales de los comedores escolares descendieron entre ambos periodos, en especial, en las escuelas insertas en contexto de mayor vulnerabilidad. También se observó una reducción significativa de la ingesta media de calcio y energía total. En las niñas y los niños asistentes a los comedores escolares se encontraron indicadores de desnutrición crónica, exceso de peso e ingestas de calcio, vitamina A y C deficitarios. En la asociación entre la asistencia al comedor escolar y el indicador baja talla/riesgo de baja talla, el odds ratio no fue estadísticamente significativa. Resulta necesario impulsar una política que busque de manera urgente mejoras de los indicadores de nutrición infantil, considerando un enfoque de derechos.

ABSTRACT The aim of this article is to analyze school lunch programs and their role in the healthy nutrition of children in Córdoba, Argentina from 2013 to 2018. A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted that included a sample of 10 schools in 2013 and 10 different schools in 2018. A survey of school lunch programs and 24-hour nutrition reminders was carried out with 341 children. The nutritional value of school lunch programs decreased over the study period, particularly among schools in contexts of greater social vulnerability. Significant reductions in average calcium and energy intake were also observed. Indicators of chronic malnutrition, overweight, and excess calcium and vitamin A and C intakes worsened among children attending school lunch programs. Regarding the association between school lunch program attendance and low height for age/risk of low height for age, the odds ratio was not statistically significant. We argue for the necessity of promoting policies that seek urgent improvements in child nutritional indicators from a rights-based perspective.

Impact of a community program for child malnutrition. / Impacto de un programa comunitario para la malnutrición infantil.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of a community program aimed at improving the children mal nutrition in a rural community of the State of Chiapas, Mexico, 2013. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Des criptive study of the evaluation program from a secondary database of nutritional data registry of 113 children under five years of age in a rural area of Mexico. The intervention and the survey were carried out during 2013. Baseline and 4-month measurements were recorded. The World Health Organization (WHO) Anthro software was used to calculate nutritional status indicators. According to WHO guidelines, the following data were estimated: weight for age (W/A), height for age (H/A), weight for height (W/H), and Body mass index for age (BMI/A). Position and dispersion measures were calculated; Student's T-test, Kruskal-Wallis, and MacNemar test were used for paired data and linear regression. RESULTS: Between the beginning and the end, the median of the Z W/H went from -0.7 (p25 -1.24, p75 -0.01) to -0.62 (p25 -1.09, p75 -0.15). The prevalence of low weight decreased from 5.31% (CI 2.38-11.44) to 4.42% (CI 1.83-10.32) (Z BMI/A). The appropriate weight according to Z score W/H increased from 78.76% (CI 70.12-85.43) to 84.96% (76.98-90.51). In the subgroup with low initial weight, the mean of Z BMI/A and Z W/H increased 0.4 (p = 0.003). The change in the mean of Z W/H was 0.02 points in the subgroup that received the direct transfer program and of -0.3 in which it did not (p = 0.020). CONCLUSIONS: It is concluded that the community program during the four months of implementation contributed to improve some anthropometric indicators, although no apparent effects were found in indicators related to chronic malnutrition.

Recomendaciones nutricionales para el personal de salud y el personal esencial expuesto a la COVID-19 en Latinoamérica / Nutritional Recommendations for Healthcare and Essential Personnel Exposed to COVID-19 in Latin America

Estas recomendaciones se basan en la evidencia científica actual derivada de meta-análisis y revisiones sistemáticas sobre nutrición y prevención de infecciones respiratorias causadas por los virus SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV o influenza, similares en su estructura al SARS-CoV-2. Están dirigidas al personal en la primera línea de atención de salud y al personal que presta servicios esenciales a la comunidad, con alto riesgo de infección por la COVID-19. Estas personas usan equipo de protección personal, cumplen largos turnos laborales, en ocasiones bajo condiciones extremas, lo que puede llevar a descanso insuficiente, alto nivel de estrés, depresión, pobre calidad en la alimentación y deshidratación. Todos estos factores influyen negativamente en el sistema inmune y podrían conllevar un mayor riesgo de infección. Una ingesta adecuada de micronutrientes y otros compuestos bioactivos es esencial para el desempeño óptimo del sistema inmune. Existe evidencia moderada que avala la suplementación, en forma individual, con vitamina C (2 000 mg), vitamina D (1 000-2 000 UI) y zinc (≤ 40 mg) en la prevención de infecciones respiratorias en adultos. No se encontró evidencia suficiente para avalar la suplementación con vitamina A, niacina, ácido fólico, B12, omega 3, probióticos y polifenoles, aunque si se recomienda el consumo de alimentos ricos en estos nutrientes para apoyar al sistema inmune. Se recomienda al personal seguir la recomendación de consumir 5 porciones/día (400 g) de frutas y vegetales/hortalizas, mantenerse hidratado y limitar la cafeína. No hay evidencia del consumo de alimentos alcalinos para prevenir infecciones. Estas recomendaciones son particularmente importantes durante la pandemia(AU)

These recommendations are based on current scientific evidence obtained through meta-analysis and systematic reviews on nutrition and the prevention of respiratory infections related to SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV or influenza, similar in structure to SARS-CoV-2. They are aimed at primary health care personnel and to those who provide essential services to the community and are, consequently, at high risk of COVID-19 infection. These individuals wear personal protective equipment, work long shifts, sometimes under extreme conditions, which can lead to insufficient rest, high stress levels, depression, poor nutrition and dehydration. Together, these factors have a negative impact on the immune system and could result in an increased risk of infection. An adequate intake of micronutrients and other bioactive compounds is essential for optimal immune performance. There is moderate evidence supporting supplementation, individually, with vitamin C (2 000 mg), vitamin D (1 000-2 000 IU) and zinc (≤40 mg) for the prevention of respiratory infections in adults. Insufficient evidence was found to support supplementation with vitamin A, niacin, folic acid, B12, omega 3, probiotics and polyphenols; however, the consumption of foods rich in these nutrients is recommended to support immune function. It is recommended that workers follow the recommendation of consuming 400 g/day of fruits and vegetables, remain hydrated and limit caffeine. There is no scientific evidence supporting the consumption of alkaline foods to prevent infections. The aforementioned recommendations are particularly relevant during the pandemic(AU)

Recomendaciones de micronutrientes para grupos vulnerables en contexto de desnutrición, durante la pandemia de COVID-19 en Latinoamérica / Micronutrient recommendations for vulnerable groups in context of undernutrition, during the COVID-19 pandemic in Latin America

La crisis por COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) puede convertirse en una catástrofe alimentaria para Latinoamérica, aumentando las personas que padecen hambre de 135 a 265 millones, especialmente en Venezuela, Guatemala, Honduras, Haití y El Salvador, que ya enfrentaban crisis económicas y sanitarias. Este manuscrito presenta la posición de un grupo de expertos latinoamericanos sobre las recomendaciones de consumo y/o suplementación con vitamina A, C, D, zinc, hierro, folatos y micronutrientes múltiples, en contextos de desnutrición, para grupos vulnerables: mujeres embarazadas y lactantes, niñas y niños menores de 5 años y adultos mayores. Las recomendaciones buscan disminuir el impacto potencial que tendrá COVID-19 en el estado nutricional, durante la pandemia. La posición surge de la discusión de dichos expertos con base a la revisión de evidencia científica actual para estos grupos vulnerables. Está dirigida a tomadores de decisiones, encargados de políticas públicas, personal de salud y organismos de la sociedad civil. Después de la lactancia materna y una dieta suficiente en cantidad y calidad, la suplementación con los micronutrientes presentados, puede contribuir a prevenir y tratar enfermedades virales, reforzar el sistema inmune y reducir complicaciones. La lactancia materna con medidas de higiene respiratoria, el suministro de múltiples micronutrientes en polvo para niños desde los 6 meses hasta los 5 años y el aporte de hierro y folatos o micronutrientes múltiples para la embarazada, son estrategias comprobadas y eficaces que deben seguirse implementando en tiempos de COVID-19. Para los adultos mayores la suplementación con vitamina C, D y zinc puede estar indicada(AU)

The COVID-19 crisis (SARS-CoV-2) might transform into a food catastrophe in Latin America and would increase the number of people suffering from hunger from 135 to 265 million, particularly in Venezuela, Guatemala, Honduras, Haiti and El Salvador, already facing economic and health crises. This manuscript presents the position of a group of Latin American experts in nutrition for establishing the recommendations for consumption and / or supplementation with vitamin A, C, D, zinc, iron, folates and multiple micronutrients, in undernutrition contexts, for vulnerable population of pregnant and lactating women, children under 5 years and the elderly. The recommendations seek to decrease the potential impact that COVID-19 will have on nutritional status during the pandemic. The position arises from the discussion of the experts based on the review of current scientific evidence for these vulnerable groups. It aims to reach stakeholders, public policy makers, health personnel and civil society organizations. Only after breastfeeding and a sufficient diet in terms of quantity and quality, a supplementation with the micronutrients mentioned above can help prevent and treat viral diseases, strengthen the immune system and even reduce complications. Breastfeeding with respiratory hygiene measures, the provision of multiple micronutrients powders for children from 6 moths to 5 years of age and the supply of iron and folates or multiple micronutrients tablets for pregnant women are proven and effective strategies that must continue to be implemented during COVID-19 pandemic. For older adults, supplementation with vitamin C, D and zinc might be indicated(AU)

Impacto de un programa comunitario para la malnutrición infantil / Impact of a community program for child malnutrition

OBJETIVO: Evaluar el impacto de un programa comunitario destinado a mejorar la malnutrición de niños y niñas de una comunidad rural del Estado de Chiapas, México, 2013. MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: Estudio descriptivo de la evaluación de un programa a partir de una base de datos secundaria con datos nutricionales en 113 niños menores de cinco años de una zona rural de México. La intervención y el relevamiento se realizaron durante el 2013. Se registraron mediciones basales y a los 4 meses. Para el cálculo de indicadores del estado nutricional se utilizó el Software Anthro de la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS). Se estimaron: Peso para edad (P/E); Talla para edad (T/E); Peso para talla (P/T); Índice de masa corporal para la edad (IMC/E), según los lineamientos de la OMS. Se calcula ron medidas de posición y dispersión, prueba T de Student, Kruskal-Wallis, test de MacNemar para datos pareados y regresión lineal simple. RESULTADOS: Entre el inicio y final la mediana del Z Peso/ talla pasó de -0,7 (p25 -1,24; p75 -0,01) a -0,62 (p25 -1,09; p75 -0,15). La prevalencia de bajo peso descendió de 5,31% (IC 2,38-11,44) a 4,42 % (IC 1,83-10,32) (Z Score IMC/edad). El peso adecuado según Z Score Peso/talla aumentó de 78,76% (IC 70,12-85,43) a 84,96% (76,98-90,51). En el subgrupo con bajo peso inicial la media de Z IMC/edad y Z Peso/talla aumentó 0,4 (p = 0,003). El cambio en la media de Z Peso/talla fue de 0,02 puntos en el subgrupo que recibió programa de trasferencia directa y de -0,3 en el que no (p = 0,020). CONCLUSIONES: Se concluye que el programa comunitario durante los 4 meses de implementación contribuyó a mejorar algunos indicadores antropométricos; aunque no se encontraron efectos aparentes en indicadores relacionados a la desnutrición crónica.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of a community program aimed at improving the children mal nutrition in a rural community of the State of Chiapas, Mexico, 2013. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Des criptive study of the evaluation program from a secondary database of nutritional data registry of 113 children under five years of age in a rural area of Mexico. The intervention and the survey were carried out during 2013. Baseline and 4-month measurements were recorded. The World Health Organization (WHO) Anthro software was used to calculate nutritional status indicators. According to WHO guidelines, the following data were estimated: weight for age (W/A), height for age (H/A), weight for height (W/H), and Body mass index for age (BMI/A). Position and dispersion measures were calculated; Student's T-test, Kruskal-Wallis, and MacNemar test were used for paired data and linear regression. RESULTS: Between the beginning and the end, the median of the Z W/H went from -0.7 (p25 -1.24, p75 -0.01) to -0.62 (p25 -1.09, p75 -0.15). The prevalence of low weight decreased from 5.31% (CI 2.38-11.44) to 4.42% (CI 1.83-10.32) (Z BMI/A). The appropriate weight according to Z score W/H increased from 78.76% (CI 70.12-85.43) to 84.96% (76.98-90.51). In the subgroup with low initial weight, the mean of Z BMI/A and Z W/H increased 0.4 (p = 0.003). The change in the mean of Z W/H was 0.02 points in the subgroup that received the direct transfer program and of -0.3 in which it did not (p = 0.020). CONCLUSIONS: It is concluded that the community program during the four months of implementation contributed to improve some anthropometric indicators, although no apparent effects were found in indicators related to chronic malnutrition.