The Longitudinal Association of Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Adiposity With Clustered Cardiometabolic Risk: A Mediation Analysis.

PURPOSE: Previous literature has demonstrated the mediating role of adiposity in the association between cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and cardiometabolic risk as well as the potential role of CRF in attenuating the adverse consequences associated with excess weight. This study aimed to evaluate the mediating role of CRF and adiposity in the possible association with cardiometabolic risk. METHOD: Observational 3-year longitudinal study that included 420 children and adolescents (10.50 [2.05] y of age at baseline; 56.2% girls). Body mass index (BMI) was calculated, and CRF was evaluated using field assessments. A clustered cardiometabolic risk score (cMetS) was calculated from glucose, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio, and triglycerides z scores. Analyses evaluated the mediating role of BMI in the association between CRF and cMetS as well as whether CRF mediated the association between BMI and cMetS. RESULTS: BMI at baseline was directly associated with the cMetS at follow-up (0.102; 95% confidence interval, 0.020 to 0.181), independently of CRF, whereas CRF was only indirectly associated with cMetS at follow-up through BMI (-0.036; 95% confidence interval, -0.070 to -0.009), meaning that the association between CRF and cMetS was explained via the mediation role of BMI. CONCLUSIONS: BMI presented direct association with cMetS, whereas CRF exhibited indirect association with cMetS mediated via BMI.

Is low back pain related to the body composition, flexibility, and postural deviations in rural workers?

Introduction: Hard work in the countryside can lead to the onset of pain conditions, which in turn trigger different degrees of labor reduction and musculoskeletal disorders. Low back pain is one of the most common disorders that lead to inactivity, and obesity seems to be associated with the development of low back pain symptoms, since abdominal fat causes mechanical demands in this region due to excessive load. Objectives: To analyze low back pain and its relationship with body composition, flexibility, and posture in rural workers. Methods: Rural workers (n = 55) were grouped according to the presence of low back pain or absence of low back pain symptoms. Body composition, flexibility, and posture were assessed and compared between groups. A principal component analysis was used to group variables to identify possible associations among variables and low back pain. Results: The low back pain group presented greater obesity rates than the group without symptoms. Regarding low back pain prevalence, most of the participants had pain symptoms and showed postural deviations. Principal components analysis showed that the group without symptoms was mainly related to the amount of muscle tissue, while the low back pain group was to the adipose tissue. Conclusions: Low back pain appears to be associated with body composition and postural deviations, while musculoskeletal and adipose tissues are protective and risk factors for low back pain, respectively, in rural workers.

Introdução: O trabalho árduo no campo pode levar ao aparecimento de quadros de dor, que desencadeiam diferentes graus de redução do trabalho e distúrbios musculoesqueléticos. A dor lombar é um dos principais distúrbios que levam a inatividade. A obesidade parece estar associada a dor lombar, pois a gordura abdominal provoca demandas mecânicas nessa região devido à carga excessiva. Objetivos: Analisar a dor lombar e sua relação com a composição corporal, flexibilidade e postura em trabalhadores rurais. Métodos: Trabalhadores rurais (n = 55) foram agrupados de acordo com a presença ou ausência de sintomas. A composição corporal, flexibilidade e postura foram avaliadas. Uma análise de componentes principais foi utilizada para identificar possíveis associações entre as variáveis e a dor lombar. Resultados: O grupo com dor lombar apresentou maiores taxas de obesidade do que o grupo sem sintomas. Em relação à prevalência de dor lombar, a maioria dos participantes apresentava dor e desvios posturais. A análise de componentes principais mostrou que o grupo sem sintomas estava relacionado à quantidade de tecido muscular, enquanto o grupo com dor lombar estava ao tecido adiposo. Conclusões: A dor lombar parece estar associada à composição corporal e desvios posturais, enquanto os tecidos musculoesquelético e adiposo são fatores protetores e de risco para dor lombar, respectivamente, em trabalhadores rurais.

Accuracy of the triglyceride-glucose index as a surrogate marker for identifying metabolic syndrome in non-diabetic individuals.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to verify the performance of the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index in predicting metabolic syndrome (MetS) using three different criteria in healthy individuals living in rural areas. In addition, it aimed to estimate the TyG index cutoff point in the prediction of MetS. METHODS: The study was a cross-sectional study of healthy individuals (aged ≥18 y) living in rural areas of southern Brazil. Individuals with diabetes mellitus were excluded. The variables investigated were waist circumference, blood pressure, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, fasting glucose, and TyG index. MetS was defined using three criteria: harmonized, International Diabetes Foundation, and National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III. The Poisson regression model was used for the multivariate analysis. The performance of the TyG index in identifying MetS was determined by receiver operating characteristic curves. RESULTS: A total of 133 individuals were included in this study, with a mean age of 49.0 ± 13.5 y; 54.1% were female. The TyG index performed better in predicting MetS through the harmonized criteria, with area under the curve (AUC) = 0.889 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.829-0.949), followed by the International Diabetes Foundation criteria, with AUC = 0.877 (95% CI, 0.814-0.940), and the National Cholesterol Education Program criteria, with AUC = 0.867 (95% CI, 0.797-0.937). The TyG index cutoff points defined for the harmonized and International Diabetes Foundation criteria were ≥ 8.61, and ≥ 8.79 for the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III. CONCLUSIONS: The TyG index proved to be valid for diagnosing MetS. The largest AUC of the TyG index was identified for the harmonized criteria. Thus, the TyG index can be used to diagnose MetS in individuals living in rural areas.

The triglyceride-glucose index as an indicator of insulin resistance and cardiometabolic risk in Brazilian adolescents.

Objective: To set cutoff points for the triglyceride and glucose index (TyG) as a marker of insulin resistance (IR) for the pediatric population. Subjects and methods: This was a cross-sectional study with schoolchildren population-based data using data of 377 schoolchildren age 10 to 17 years of both sexes. We studied metabolic variables associated with IR indicators, such as fasting insulin and blood glucose, to calculate the homeostatic model assessment (HOMA-IR), and we studied triglycerides (TG) to determine the TyG index. We obtained TyG cutoff values for IR using the receiver operation characteristic (ROC), with definitions of sensitivity (Sen), specificity (Spe), and area under the ROC curve (AUC), with the HOMA-IR as reference. Results: The cutoff points of the TyG index for IR in adolescents are 7.94 for both sexes, 7.91 for boys, and 7.94 for girls, indicating moderate discriminatory power. When we also considered anthropometric variables of excess weight [TyG-BMI (body mass index)] and visceral fat [TyG-WC (waist circumference)], these indexes reached AUC values higher than 0.72, enhancing their potential use for a good diagnosis. Conclusion: TyG has proven to be a useful instrument for identifying IR in adolescent health screening, with high discrimination capacity when added to anthropometric variables, making it a feasible and inexpensive option.

Association between the use of muscle-building supplements and DNA damage in resistance training practitioners.

OBJECTIVES: Little is known about the relationship between the supplements used for sport and safety, especially regarding the induction of genotoxicity. Therefore, more knowledge about a DNA damage possibly caused using sport supplements is necessary. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential association between the use of muscle-building supplements and DNA damage in resistance training practitioners. METHODS: Muscle-building supplements were classified into three categories based on evidence of efficacy and safety: Strong Evidence to Support Efficacy and Apparently Safe (SESEAS); Limited or Mixed Evidence to Support Efficacy (LMESE), and Little to No Evidence to Support Efficacy and/or Safety (LNESES). DNA damage was evaluated by the comet assay (DNA damage index and frequency) and buccal micronucleus by the cytome assay (micronuclei and nuclear buds). In the sequence, the adjusted analysis of covariance was performed. This study included 307 individuals ages 37.99 ± 13.95 y (52.1% men), of which 157 consumed supplements. RESULTS: The results of the comet assay revealed that participants who used supplements had higher DNA damage indexes (P = 0.018) and damage frequency (P = 0.045) than those who reported using no supplements. Moreover, the comet assay also indicated that the participants who used supplements classified into the SESEAS category presented the highest DNA damage index (P = 0.025) and frequency (P = 0.044) compared with those who used no supplements. However, we found no significant difference in the micronuclei and nuclear buds in the evaluated groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Supplement use is not associated with permanent damage, suggesting that SESEAS supplements are safe for consumption.

Mobbing as a source of psychological harm in workers.

Workplace harassment is a phenomenon as old as work itself. It constitutes a form of discrimination that violates labor laws and civil rights, a type of silent violence that affects work relationships, destabilizes the victim, and harms the physical and mental health of workers. The present study aimed to investigate the association between psychological harm and workplace mobbing through a descriptive narrative review of the literature. PubMed and Scopus databases were searched in July and August 2020 using the following Health Sciences Descriptors: "Harassment, Non-Sexual", "Workplace Violence", and "Working Environment". Inclusion criteria were full-text articles written in English and published between 2015-2020. Thirty-three articles were preselected, of which 17 were excluded because they did not meet the inclusion criteria. Sixteen articles were included in the study. Globalization, in association with increased competitiveness in the work environment, has promoted a continuous and progressive deterioration of work relationships, which has been aggravated by the expansion of communication technologies and social media. The frequency of workplace mobbing and its consequences on the income and quality of life of workers has increased. The magnitude of the association between harassment and psychological harm is still underestimated due to low reporting rates, which are motivated by the trivialization of toxic work relationships. Regardless of how mobbing occurs in the workplace, it negatively affects the physical and mental health of workers, sometimes even leading to permanent disability.

O assédio no trabalho é um fenômeno tão antigo quanto o próprio trabalho. Consiste em discriminação que viola leis trabalhistas e direitos civis, uma violência silenciosa que afeta as relações de trabalho e desestabiliza a vítima, abalando a saúde física e mental. O presente estudo teve por objetivo correlacionar o adoecimento psíquico do trabalhador com o assédio moral no trabalho através de uma revisão narrativa da literatura, de caráter descritivo. Realizou-se uma pesquisa nas bases de dados PubMed e Scopus em Julho e Agosto de 2020, mediada pelos seguintes Descritores em Ciências da Saúde: "harassment, non-sexual", "workplace violence" e "working environment". Foram selecionados artigos em língua inglesa, escritos entre 2015-2020, em sua versão final completa no momento da pesquisa. Foram pré-selecionados 33 artigos, dos quais 17 foram excluídos por não se enquadrarem nos critérios anteriores, permanecendo 16 artigos para apreciação final. Observou-se que a globalização, em conjunto com a crescente competitividade no ambiente de trabalho, levou a uma deterioração contínua e progressiva das relações de trabalho, agravada pela expansão das tecnologias de comunicação e mídias sociais. Percebe-se um aumento na frequência do assédio moral e nas suas consequências no rendimento e na qualidade de vida do trabalhador. A magnitude da associação entre assédio e adoecimento do trabalhador ainda é subestimada devido ao baixo índice de denúncias, motivado pela banalização de relações tóxicas de trabalho. Fica claro que, independentemente do modo como o assédio moral ocorre no ambiente de trabalho, ele afeta negativamente a saúde física e mental do trabalhador, podendo levar a uma incapacidade permanente.

Micronuclei frequency and renal function markers in gym members: The moderating role of supplement intake.

This research investigates the moderating role of dietary supplement intake in the relationship between MNi frequency and renal markers in gym members. A cross-sectional study was carried out with gym members of all sexes, between 20 and 59 years of age, with data on supplement use obtained via questionnaire. Renal markers (urea and creatinine) were assessed by blood collection. Buccal mucosa cells were collected to assess MNi frequency by buccal micronucleus cytome assay. Moderation was tested using multiple linear regression models by PROCESS macro for SPSS. Results showed significant interactions for supplement use (p = 0.001) and supplement type, ergogenic (p = 0.003) and sports food (p = 0.003), with MNi for urea. For creatinine, only supplement use showed interaction with MNi frequency (p = 0.048). In conclusion, supplement intake is a moderator in the relationship between MNi frequency and renal function markers in gym members.

Quality of life: impacts of a health promotion program in the supplementary health sector. / Qualidade de vida: impactos de um programa de promoção da saúde do setor de saúde suplementar.

The objective of this study was to compare quality of life indicators and clinical parameters among individuals participating in a cardiovascular health promotion program in the supplementary health sector. We conducted a cross-sectional study with 251 program participants living in the regions covered by the Vale do Taquari and Vale do Rio Pardo regional development councils in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Quality of life was assessed using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. Participants were predominantly women and elderly and had high cardiovascular risk (37.8%) and good self-reported quality of life. The clinical parameter means were body mass index obesity class I, normal blood pressure and lipid profile and adequate fasting blood sugar level. The results of the reassessment after one year showed a significant reduction in mean triglycerides (p = 0.031), diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.000) and systolic blood pressure (p = 0.013), and a significant increase in the mean score for the general domain of the WHOQOL-BREF (p = 0.004). It is necessary to consider and address social determinants of health and promote integrated actions across various sectors, including both the public and private spheres.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi comparar indicadores da qualidade de vida e parâmetros clínicos de usuários que participam de um programa de promoção da saúde, no âmbito da saúde suplementar, na linha de cuidado cardiovascular. Trata-se de um estudo observacional e transversal, realizado com 251 sujeitos das regiões do Conselho Regional de Desenvolvimento Vale do Taquari e do Conselho Regional de Desenvolvimento Vale do Rio Pardo/RS. Para a avaliação da qualidade de vida, utilizou-se o questionário WHOQOL-BREF. Os participantes se caracterizaram pela predominância de mulheres, idosos, do aumento do número de sujeitos de alto risco cardiovascular (37,8%) e de boa qualidade de vida. As médias dos parâmetros clínicos apontaram índice de massa corporal de obesidade grau I, pressão arterial normal, perfil lipídico e glicemia de jejum adequados. Após participarem durante um ano do programa, foram identificadas reduções significativas para as médias dos triglicerídeos (p = 0,031), pressão arterial diastólica (p = 0,000), pressão arterial sistólica (p = 0,013), mas no domínio geral da qualidade de vida (p = 0,004) houve um aumento significativo. Se faz necessário considerar e intervir nos condicionantes sociais de saúde e promover a intersetorialidade, inclusive entre o público e o privado.

Health problems in agricultural workers occupationally exposed to pesticides.

Agricultural workers are susceptible to several health problems as a result of occupational exposure to toxic substances, especially pesticides. The aim of this review was to describe the health issues associated with occupational exposure to pesticides in agricultural workers. A descriptive study, in the form of an integrative literature review, was conducted based on articles retrieved from the LILACS, SciELO and PubMed databases, published between January 2015 and October 2018. The searches were conducted using the keywords "pesticides," "workers' health," "occupational exposure" and "agricultural workers." The study was guided by the following research question: what health problems do agricultural workers experience as a result of occupational exposure to pesticides? The screening process led to the selection of 35 studies performed in several countries and continents, all of which shed light on the vulnerability of agricultural workers, especially due to the misuse of personal protective equipment and lack of knowledge about the correct use of these devices. The studies investigated a variety of health issues, and most reported a positive association between these conditions, which include cancer, and the use of pesticides. Educational and preventive measures must be implemented to promote the health of rural workers. Furthermore, it is crucial that governments play an active role in these initiatives and provide alternatives to pesticides for pest control.

Change in habits of workers participating in a Labor Gymnastics Program.

BACKGROUND: Demands as to productivity transform the work environment more and more stressful, and negatively impact on the motivation of workers and the performance of their work activities. Initiatives seek to consolidate advances in policies for comprehensive care for workers health, with actions to prevent injuries and promote health. Offering workers a Labor Gymnastics Program (PGL), which is not restricted to attention to musculoskeletal disorders, becomes a tool to encourage change in habits. AIM: To identify possible changes in workers habits after the implementation of a PGL. METHOD: 41 workers in the administrative area and support from a teaching hospital in the municipality of Santa Cruz do Sul answered the questionnaire. The questionnaire includes variables on eating habits, displacement and physical activity, applied before and after intervention. The sessions were held during the workday, with frequency of three times a week, on alternate days, for 4 months, composed of physical activities and information on dietary reeducation, postural education, body awareness and the importance of regular physical activity. RESULTS: There is a predominance of females (61.0%), and age of 33.5±10.2 years. Changes in some habits were identified: increase in the number of workers who practice regular physical activity (p=0.01), increase in the duration and frequency of activity (p=0.04), and maintenance / reduction in the frequency of consumption of "Embedded" (p=0.03). CONCLUSION: It was possible to identify positive changes in workers habits after the implementation of the PGL, suggesting that it is an important strategy in the field of health promotion.

INTRODUÇÃO: Exigências quanto à produtividade tornam o ambiente de trabalho cada vez mais estressante e impactam negativamente na motivação dos trabalhadores e no desempenho de suas atividades laborais. Iniciativas buscam consolidar avanços nas políticas de atenção integral à saúde do trabalhador, com ações de prevenção de agravos e promoção da saúde. Oferecer ao trabalhador um programa de ginástica laboral (PGL), que não se restringe a atenção às disfunções musculoesqueléticas, torna-se uma ferramenta de incentivo à mudança de hábitos. OBJETIVO: Identificar possíveis mudanças de hábitos dos trabalhadores com a implantação de um PGL. MÉTODO: Responderam ao questionário 41 trabalhadores da área administrativa e de apoio de um hospital de ensino no município de Santa Cruz do Sul (RS). O questionário contemplava variáveis sobre hábitos alimentares, deslocamentos e prática de atividade física e foi aplicado anterior e posteriormente à intervenção. As sessões foram realizadas durante a jornada de trabalho, com frequência de três vezes na semana, em dias alternados, durante quatro meses, compostas de atividades físicas e informações sobre reeducação alimentar, educação postural, consciência corporal e importância da prática regular de atividade física. RESULTADOS: Observou-se predomínio do sexo feminino (61,0%) e idade de 33,5±10,2 anos. Identificaram-se alterações em alguns hábitos: aumento do número de trabalhadores que praticam atividade física regularmente (p=0,01), da duração e da frequência da atividade (p=0,04) e manutenção/redução da frequência do consumo de embutidos (p=0,03). CONCLUSÃO: Foi possível identificar alterações positivas nos hábitos dos trabalhadores após a implantação do PGL, sugerindo que essa seja uma estratégia importante no âmbito de promoção da saúde no trabalho.

Cardiovascular risk, lifestyle and anthropometric status of rural workers in Pardo River Valley, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

BACKGROUND: The state of health of rural workers is influenced by the living conditions to which they are subjected, including social, economic, technological and organizational aspects. Given the scarcity of studies on this population of workers, establishing their profile is necessary. OBJECTIVES: To analyze cardiovascular risk according to demographic factors and anthropometric status of rural workers under the Pardo River Valley Regional Development Council (COREDE-VRP). METHODS: Cross-sectional analytical study with rural workers in five municipalities in the COREDE-VRP southern region. We administered a structured questionnaire for lifestyle socioeconomic information, physical activity and self-reported health. Anthropometric measurements, resting heart rate and electrocardiogram (ECG) were performed to analyze heart rate variability (HRV). RESULTS: Women exhibited higher cardiovascular risk, which in turn did not differ as a function of age, marital status, socioeconomic status or lifestyle. We found a relationship between cardiovascular risk and anthropometric measurements, but not with cardiovascular variables. CONCLUSION: Women exhibited higher cardiovascular risk, which was not associated with marital status, socioeconomic status, alcohol use, smoking, sleep disorders or physical activity. Therefore, we emphasize the relationship between cardiovascular risk and anthropometric variables, as well as the lack of association with heart rate and autonomic imbalance.

INTRODUÇÃO: A saúde dos trabalhadores rurais sofre influência decorrente das condições de vida a que estão submetidos, como fatores sociais, econômicos, tecnológicos e organizacionais. Nesse contexto, surge a necessidade de identificar o perfil de saúde de trabalhadores rurais, pela escassez de pesquisas relacionadas a essa área. OBJETIVO: Avaliar o risco cardiovascular de acordo com fatores demográficos e composição corporal em trabalhadores rurais do Conselho Regional de Desenvolvimento do Vale do Rio Pardo (COREDE/VRP). MÉTODO: Estudo transversal analítico realizado com trabalhadores rurais de cinco municípios da microrregião sul do COREDE/VRP. Utilizou-se um questionário de estilo de vida estruturado com informações socioeconômicas sobre atividade física e saúde autorreferida. Foram feitas avaliação antropométrica, verificação da frequência cardíaca de repouso e gravação do eletrocardiograma (ECG), para análise da variabilidade da frequência cardíaca (VFC). RESULTADOS: As mulheres apresentaram significativamente mais risco cardiovascular. Não foram encontradas diferenças para idade, estado civil, classe socioeconômica e estilo de vida. Ao se comparar variáveis antropométricas e cardiovasculares, observou-se que existe relação significativa do risco com a antropometria, não havendo relação entre o risco e as variáveis cardiovasculares. CONCLUSÕES: Observou-se que as mulheres da área rural apresentam significativamente maior risco cardiovascular, não sendo observada relação com o estilo de vida. Além disso, é possível destacar a relação estatisticamente significativa entre as variáveis antropométricas e o risco cardiovascular, não havendo relação entre o risco cardiovascular e a frequência cardíaca e entre o risco cardiovascular e o desequilíbrio autonômico.

Health workers: cardiovascular risk and occupational stress.

BACKGROUND: Work might cause severe physical stress associated with emotional overload, especially among hospital employees. OBJECTIVE: To identify risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and occupational stress among employees of a teaching hospital. METHOD: Cross-sectional study conducted with 45 employees of a philanthropic health institution in the central area of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Data collection was performed to analyze anthropometric variables, blood pressure, biochemical markers and indicators of health and occupational stress. RESULTS: 60.0% of the participants reported sedentary behavior. Analysis of non-modifiable risk factors showed that 55.6% of the sample had family history (mother and father) of hypertension, 22.2% of myocardial infarction and stroke and 13.3% of diabetes. Body mass index categories overweight and obesity predominated (55.5%); 73.4% of the sample was categorized as with moderate-to-high risk to health based on the waist-to-hip ratio; the body fat percentage was above normal or indicated tendency to obesity for 73.3% of the participants. About 71.1% of the sample exhibited excellent or normal blood pressure. Total cholesterol was high or borderline for 88.9% of the sample. On assessment of occupational risk, 55.5% of the participants were categorized as with intermediate degree of exposure. CONCLUSION: The results point to the relevance of health policies to promote lifestyle changes in and outside the workplace with consequent impact on the physical and mental state of workers.

INTRODUÇÃO: A atividade laboral pode trazer consigo profundo estresse físico associado à sobrecarga emocional sobretudo em trabalhadores no ambiente hospitalar. OBJETIVO: Buscou-se identificar os fatores de risco para doenças cardiovasculares e estresse ocupacional em profissionais de um hospital de ensino. MÉTODO: Trata-se de um estudo transversal, realizado com 45 trabalhadores de uma instituição de saúde filantrópica da região central do Rio Grande do Sul. A coleta de dados seguiu com base na premissa de avaliar variáveis antropométricas, pressão arterial, marcadores bioquímicos, indicadores de saúde e estresse ocupacional. RESULTADOS: Dos participantes, 60,0% autorreferiram-se sedentários. A avaliação dos fatores de risco não modificáveis mostrou que 55,6% dos participantes apresentavam histórico familiar (pai e mãe) com hipertensão, 22,2% com infarto e acidente vascular cerebral e 13,3% com diabetes. Houve predominância dos indivíduos com sobrepeso ou obesidade no quesito índice de massa corporal (55,5%): 73,4% apresentaram relação cintura-quadril de moderado a alto risco para a saúde e 73,3% estavam com percentual de gordura acima do normal e tendência à obesidade. 71,1% dos avaliados apresentaram pressão arterial entre ótima e normal. Os marcadores bioquímicos apontaram 88,9% dos participantes apresentando colesterol total nas faixas limítrofe ou alta. Na avaliação do estresse ocupacional, 55,5% dos trabalhadores encontram-se no grupo de exposição intermediária. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados encontrados ressaltam a importância de políticas de saúde que incentivem a mudança do estilo de vida dentro e fora do trabalho, com impacto direto nas condições de saúde física e mental dos trabalhadores.

Low levels of cardiorespiratory fitness and abdominal resistance are associated with metabolic risk in schoolchildren.

Background Low levels of physical fitness are associated with metabolic disorders in adults. However, this relationship has been little explored in children and adolescents. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether there is an association between physical fitness related to health and the presence of metabolic risk in schoolchildren. Methods The sample for this cross-sectional study was composed of 1251 schoolchildren of both genders between 7 and 17 years of age. Three indicators of physical fitness related to health were evaluated: cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), flexibility and abdominal resistance. The continuous metabolic syndrome score (cMetS) was calculated by using the sum of the Z scores of the following indicators: body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure, glucose, total cholesterol, high- and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c and LDL-c) and triglycerides. Subsequently, the cMetS was dichotomized, considering the presence or absence of metabolic risk. The data were analyzed using prevalence ratio (PR) values and 95% confidence intervals (CI), using Poisson regression. Results A higher prevalence of metabolic risk was found among students with low levels of CRF (PR: 1.48; CI: 1.10-1.98) and abdominal resistance (PR: 1.45; CI: 1.08-1.95). No association with flexibility was found. Conclusions Low levels of CRF and abdominal resistance are associated with the presence of metabolic risk in schoolchildren.

Cardiovascular risk in rural workers and its relation with body mass index.

Objective Evaluate the propensity of cardiovascular risk in rural workers and, through the Framingham Risk Score (FRS), relate this risk with the classification of Body Mass Index (BMI). Subjects and methods This study is characterized as descriptive and exploratory, with the participation of 138 subjects, ranging between 25-73 years old. Clinical and laboratory analysis of the risk factors contained in the FRS were performed, in addition to the determination of BMI, blood pressure, smoking and physical inactivity. Results The procedures indicated a low risk of a coronary event in 10 years with 70.3% of the population. In contrast, 88.4% of the subjects were overweight. It was evidenced a risk improvement as the BMI increased, since 96.4% of high-risk cases were overweight or obese. Conclusion Results suggest larger prevalence of intermediary or high FRS for women with higher BMI, which was not observed in men.

A narrative review associating health vulnerability and environmental factors among rural workers.

BACKGROUND: Rural Brazil is known for its history of poor working and living conditions; in some regions the population becomes vulnerable to health and work problems. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between health vulnerability and environmental factors among rural workers. METHOD: Descriptive study which consisted in a narrative review of literature published from 2012 to 2017. The literature search was conducted in databases Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) and Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS) using Health Sciences Descriptors (DeCS) "health," "vulnerability," "rural population" and "rural worker health." RESULTS: Six studies were retrieved which mainly associated health vulnerability to inadequate or no use of specifically required personal protective equipment, in addition to pointing out actions essential for health promotion, such as adequate diet and leisure time, physical activity, dignified working conditions, and social contacts. CONCLUSION: Rural work environmental factors are directly related with health vulnerability. Prevention of exposure to risk of disease and health promotion actions are essential to minimize health problems, especially the ones associated with exposure to agrochemicals.

INTRODUÇÃO: O Brasil rural é conhecido historicamente pelas condições de trabalho e de vida precárias; em algumas regiões, essa população torna-se vulnerável às condições de saúde e trabalho. OBJETIVO: Descrever a associação entre a vulnerabilidade à saúde e os fatores ambientais em trabalhadores rurais. MÉTODO: Estudo de caráter descritivo caracterizado como revisão narrativa de literatura, no período de 2012 a 2017. Foram utilizadas as bases de dados Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) e Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências de Saúde (LILACS) e os Descritores em Ciências da Saúde (DECs) "saúde", "vulnerabilidade", "população rural" e "saúde do trabalhador rural". RESULTADOS: A pesquisa resultou em seis artigos que evidenciaram, principalmente, a vulnerabilidade à saúde relacionada com a utilização inadequada dos equipamentos de proteção individual específicos ao trabalho, ou a sua não utilização; além de apontar ações essenciais para a saúde, como manter uma alimentação adequada, ter momentos de lazer, praticar atividade física, ter condições dignas de trabalho e contato com grupos sociais. CONCLUSÃO: Conclui-se que os fatores ambientais no trabalho rural estão diretamente interligados com a vulnerabilidade à saúde, em que práticas de prevenção na exposição ao risco de doenças e de promoção à saúde são essenciais para minimizar os agravos à saúde, principalmente quanto à exposição de agrotóxicos em trabalhadores rurais.

The triglyceride-glucose index as an indicator of insulin resistance and cardiometabolic risk in Brazilian adolescents

ABSTRACT Objective: To set cutoff points for the triglyceride and glucose index (TyG) as a marker of insulin resistance (IR) for the pediatric population. Subjects and methods: This was a cross-sectional study with schoolchildren population-based data using data of 377 schoolchildren age 10 to 17 years of both sexes. We studied metabolic variables associated with IR indicators, such as fasting insulin and blood glucose, to calculate the homeostatic model assessment (HOMA-IR), and we studied triglycerides (TG) to determine the TyG index. We obtained TyG cutoff values for IR using the receiver operation characteristic (ROC), with definitions of sensitivity (Sen), specificity (Spe), and area under the ROC curve (AUC), with the HOMA-IR as reference. Results: The cutoff points of the TyG index for IR in adolescents are 7.94 for both sexes, 7.91 for boys, and 7.94 for girls, indicating moderate discriminatory power. When we also considered anthropometric variables of excess weight [TyG-BMI (body mass index)] and visceral fat [TyG-WC (waist circumference)], these indexes reached AUC values higher than 0.72, enhancing their potential use for a good diagnosis. Conclusion: TyG has proven to be a useful instrument for identifying IR in adolescent health screening, with high discrimination capacity when added to anthropometric variables, making it a feasible and inexpensive option.

Estilo de vida, características sociodemográficas, ocupacionais e dor em profissionais de enfermagem com lombalgia / Lifestyle, sociodemographic and occupational characteristics and pain in nursing professionals with low back pain / Estilo de vida, características sociodemográficas y ocupacionales y dolor en profesionales de enfermería con lombalgia

Resumo Enquadramento: A lombalgia é frequente em enfermeiros e técnicos de enfermagem, profissionais que exercem atividades ocupacionais distintas. Objetivo: Comparar estilo de vida, características sociodemográficas e ocupacionais e perceção de dor de enfermeiros e técnicos de enfermagem com dor lombar. Metodologia: Estudo transversal, quantitativo, descritivo e analítico. Atenderam aos critérios 53 profissionais atuantes no ambiente hospitalar. Estes responderam um questionário adaptado e o STarT Back Screening Tool (SBST-Brasil). A dor mensurou-se pela Escala Visual Analógica da Dor. Resultados: A amostra foi composta por profissionais do sexo feminino, sendo 81% técnicas de enfermagem e 19% enfermeiras. Quanto a caracterização sociodemográfica, observou-se diferença significativa para classe socioeconómica (p = 0,039). Também há diferença estatística para o turno de trabalho (p = 0,001) ao analisar a caracterização do trabalho a partir da categoria profissional. Conclusão: Apesar de exercerem funções laborais distintas, há diferença significativa somente para classe socioeconómica e turno de trabalho; as demais variáveis não se relacionaram com a categoria profissional. Essas informações são importantes para o desenvolvimento de novas estratégias para a prevenção da dor lombar.

Abstract Background: Low back pain is common among nurses and nursing technicians, although they perform different professional activities. Objective: To compare the lifestyle, the sociodemographic and occupational characteristics, and the pain perception of nurses and nursing technicians with low back pain. Methodology: Cross-sectional, quantitative, descriptive, and analytical study. Fifty-three professionals working in hospital settings met the criteria. These professionals answered an adapted questionnaire and the STarT Back Screening Tool (SBST-Brazil). Pain was measured by the Visual Analog Scale. Results: The sample consisted of 53 female professionals, of whom 81% were nursing technicians and 19% were nurses. Concerning the sociodemographic characteristics, a significant difference was found only for socioeconomic class (p = 0.039). The analysis of the work characteristics by professional category also revealed a statistical difference for the work shift (p = 0.001). Conclusion: Although nurses and nursing technicians have different professional activities, a significant difference was only found for socioeconomic class and work shift. The other variables were not associated with the professional category. These findings are essential to developing new strategies for preventing low back pain.

Resumen Marco contextual: La lumbalgia es frecuente en enfermeros y técnicos de enfermería, profesionales que realizan diferentes actividades laborales. Objetivo: Comparar el estilo de vida, las características sociodemográficas y laborales, y la percepción del dolor de enfermeros y técnicos de enfermería con dolor lumbar. Metodología: Estudio transversal, cuantitativo, descriptivo y analítico. Cumplían los criterios 53 profesionales que trabajan en el ámbito hospitalario. Estos respondieron a un cuestionario adaptado y al STarT Back Screening Tool (SBST-Brasil). El dolor se midió con la Escala Visual Analógica del Dolor. Resultados: La muestra estuvo compuesta por profesionales del sexo femenino, de entre las cuales el 81% fueron técnicas de enfermería y el 19% enfermeras. En cuanto a la caracterización sociodemográfica, se observó una diferencia significativa en la clase socioeconómica (p = 0,039). También hay una diferencia estadística en el turno de trabajo (p = 0,001) al analizar la caracterización del trabajo de la categoría profesional. Conclusión: Aunque tienen diferentes funciones laborales, hay una diferencia significativa solo para la clase socioeconómica y el turno de trabajo; las demás variables no se relacionaron con la categoría profesional. Esta información es importante para el desarrollo de nuevas estrategias de prevención del dolor lumbar.

Metabolic syndrome components relationship with lipid indices and anthropometric parameters in rural workers: exploratory factor analysis / Relação dos componentes da síndrome metabólica com índices lipídicos e parâmetros antropométricos em trabalhadores rurais: análise fatorial exploratória / Relación de los componentes del síndrome metabólico con índices lipídicos y parámetros antropométricos en trabajadores rurales: análisis factorial exploratório

Background and Objectives: The search for simple and rapid screening indicators for metabolic syndrome (MS) is important due to its high frequency in the adult population. And this aspect is little explored in the rural Brazilian population. The objective of this study was to verify the relationship of MS components with lipid indices and anthropometric parameters in rural workers. Methods: Cross-sectional study with rural workers aged 18 years or older. The MS was determined through harmonized criteria. The fasting glucose (GLI), systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure, HDL-c and waist circumference (WC); anthropometric parameters: body mass index (BMI), waist/height ratio (WHtR) and body fat percentage (%F); and lipid indices: glycemic triglyceride index (TyG), lipid accumulation product (LAP) and visceral adiposity index (VAI). Exploratory factor analysis was performed that included, in model I, the anthropometric parameters and, in model II, the lipid indices. Results: out of the 167 workers, 21.0% were older adults (≥60 years), 39.5% were male and 61.1% had MS, with a higher prevalence in females. Model II responded to the highest explained variance (78.43%) including metabolic (VAI, LAP, TyG and TG and -HDL-c), cardiometabolic (SBP, DBP and CC) and glycemic factors. Model I explained 70.4% of the variance, which included excess weight, blood pressure and lipid/glycemic factors. Conclusion: the model that included the lipid indices explained the greatest variance observed and the VAI presented the most significant load of this factor.(AU)

Justificativa e Objetivos: A busca por indicadores simples e rápidos de rastreio de síndrome metabólica (SM) é importante, devido a sua alta frequência na população adulta. Contudo, este aspecto é pouco explorado na população rural brasileira. O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a relação dos componentes da SM com índices lipídicos e parâmetros antropométricos em trabalhadores rurais. Métodos: Estudo transversal com trabalhadores rurais com 18 anos ou mais. A SM foi determinada pelo critério harmonizado. Foram investigados os seguintes componentes da SM: triglicerídeos (TG), glicose em jejum (GLI), pressão arterial sistólica (PAS) e diastólica (PAD), HDL-c e circunferência da cintura (CC); os parâmetros antropométricos: índice de massa corporal (IMC), relação cintura/estatura (RCE) e percentual de gordura corporal (%G); e os índices lipídicos: índice triglicerídeos glicemia (TyG), produto de acumulação de lipídios (LAP) e índice de adiposidade visceral (VAI). Foi realizada análise fatorial exploratória que incluiu, no modelo I, os parâmetros antropométricos e, no modelo II, os índices lipídicos. Resultados: Dos 167 indivíduos investigados, 21,0% eram idosos (≥60 anos), 39,5% do sexo masculino e 61,1% apresentaram SM, com maior frequência no sexo feminino. O modelo II respondeu a maior variância explicada (78,43%) incluindo os fatores metabólico (VAI, LAP, TyG, TG e o -HDL-c), cardiometabólico (PAS, PAD e CC) e glicêmico. O modelo I explicou 70,4% da variância, que incluiu os fatores excesso de peso, pressão arterial e lipídico/glicêmico. Conclusão: o modelo que incluiu os índices lipídicos explicou a maior variância observada e o VAI apresentou a carga mais significativa desse fator.(AU)

Antecedentes y objetivos: La búsqueda de indicadores de detección simples y rápidos para el síndrome metabólico (SM) es importante debido a su alta frecuencia en la población adulta. Y este aspecto es poco explorado en la población rural brasileña. El objetivo de este estudio fue verificar la relación de los componentes del SM com índices lipídicos e parámetros antropométricos en trabajadores rurales. Métodos: estudio transversal con trabajadores rurales de 18 años o más. El SM fue determinado por criterio armonizado. Se investigaron los seguientes componentes de la SM: triglicéridos (TG), glucosa en ayunas (GLI), presión arterial sistólica (PAS) y diastólica (PAD), HDL-c y circunferencia de cintura (CC); parámetros antropométricos: índice de masa corporal (IMC), relación cintura /talla (WHtR) y porcentaje de grasa corporal (% F); y índices de lípidos: índice glucémico de triglicéridos (TyG), el producto de acumulación de lípidos (LAP) y el índice de adiposidad visceral (VAI). Se realizo um análisis factorial exploratorio que incluyó, em modelo I, los parâmetros antropométricos y, en el modelo II, los índices lipídicos. Resultados: De los 167 trabajadores, 21,0% eran ancianos (≥60 años), 39,5% hombres y 61,1% tenían SM, con mayor frecuencia en mujeres. El modelo II respondió a la mayor varianza explicada (78,43%) incluyendo factores metabólico (VAI, LAP, TyG y TG y -HDL-c), cardiometabólico (SBP, DBP y CC) y glucémico. El modelo I explicó el 70,4% de la varianza, que incluía exceso de peso, presión arterial y factores lipídicos / glucémicos. Conclusión: el modelo que incluyó los índices lipídicos explicó la mayor varianza observada y el VAI presentó la carga más significativa de este factor.(AU)

Differences in body posture, strength and flexibility in schoolchildren with overweight and obesity: A quasi-experimental study.

BACKGROUND: Body posture and its components have been widely discussed, given the high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in children and adolescents. Among children and adolescents with overweight and obesity issues, these changes can be pronounced. OBJECTIVES: This study sought to investigate whether a global exercise routine could result in positive changes in the angles and distances measured in postural assessments and in the number of abdominal and flexibility exercise repetitions performed by children and adolescents with overweight or obesity. METHODS: A quasi-experimental design including an experimental group (EG) and a control group (CG) was used. The primary outcome variables included ratings of body posture (using SAPO software) and measures of abdominal muscle strength (number of sit-ups) and flexibility. The EG received an interdisciplinary intervention the included 48 sessions of global postural exercises performed three times a week. RESULTS: Of the 46 schoolchildren evaluated (EG, n = 23 and CG, n = 23), significant changes were observed in the EG from pre-to post-test in the thoracic angle (p = 0.001) and abdominal muscle strength (p = 0.016) for boys and in the thoracic angle (p = 0.010), abdominal muscle strength (p = 0.003) and flexibility (p = 0.010) for girls. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the exercise program led to changes in the angle and distance measurements obtained in postural evaluations and contributed to increases in the number of repetitions of abdominal and flexibility exercises, indicating improvements in the EG group's body posture and health indicators.

Mudança nos hábitos de trabalhadores participantes de um programa de ginástica laboral / Change in habits of workers participating in a Labor Gymnastics Program

Introdução: Exigências quanto à produtividade tornam o ambiente de trabalho cada vez mais estressante e impactam negativamente na motivação dos trabalhadores e no desempenho de suas atividades laborais. Iniciativas buscam consolidar avanços nas políticas de atenção integral à saúde do trabalhador, com ações de prevenção de agravos e promoção da saúde. Oferecer ao trabalhador um programa de ginástica laboral (PGL), que não se restringe a atenção às disfunções musculoesqueléticas, torna-se uma ferramenta de incentivo à mudança de hábitos. Objetivo: Identificar possíveis mudanças de hábitos dos trabalhadores com a implantação de um PGL. Método: Responderam ao questionário 41 trabalhadores da área administrativa e de apoio de um hospital de ensino no município de Santa Cruz do Sul (RS). O questionário contemplava variáveis sobre hábitos alimentares, deslocamentos e prática de atividade física e foi aplicado anterior e posteriormente à intervenção. As sessões foram realizadas durante a jornada de trabalho, com frequência de três vezes na semana, em dias alternados, durante quatro meses, compostas de atividades físicas e informações sobre reeducação alimentar, educação postural, consciência corporal e importância da prática regular de atividade física. Resultados: Observou-se predomínio do sexo feminino (61,0%) e idade de 33,5±10,2 anos. Identificaram-se alterações em alguns hábitos: aumento do número de trabalhadores que praticam atividade física regularmente (p=0,01), da duração e da frequência da atividade (p=0,04) e manutenção/redução da frequência do consumo de embutidos (p=0,03). Conclusão: Foi possível identificar alterações positivas nos hábitos dos trabalhadores após a implantação do PGL, sugerindo que essa seja uma estratégia importante no âmbito de promoção da saúde no trabalho

Background: Demands as to productivity transform the work environment more and more stressful, and negatively impact on the motivation of workers and the performance of their work activities. Initiatives seek to consolidate advances in policies for comprehensive care for workers health, with actions to prevent injuries and promote health. Offering workers a Labor Gymnastics Program (PGL), which is not restricted to attention to musculoskeletal disorders, becomes a tool to encourage change in habits. Aim: To identify possible changes in workers habits after the implementation of a PGL. Method: 41 workers in the administrative area and support from a teaching hospital in the municipality of Santa Cruz do Sul answered the questionnaire. The questionnaire includes variables on eating habits, displacement and physical activity, applied before and after intervention. The sessions were held during the workday, with frequency of three times a week, on alternate days, for 4 months, composed of physical activities and information on dietary reeducation, postural education, body awareness and the importance of regular physical activity. Results: There is a predominance of females (61.0%), and age of 33.5±10.2 years. Changes in some habits were identified: increase in the number of workers who practice regular physical activity (p=0.01), increase in the duration and frequency of activity (p=0.04), and maintenance / reduction in the frequency of consumption of "Embedded" (p=0.03). Conclusion: It was possible to identify positive changes in workers habits after the implementation of the PGL, suggesting that it is an important strategy in the field of health promotion