Self-help mobile messaging intervention for depression among older adults in resource-limited settings: a randomized controlled trial.

Scalable solutions to treat depression in older adults in low-resourced settings are urgently needed. The PRODIGITAL-D pragmatic, single-blind, two-arm, individually randomized controlled trial assessed the effectiveness of a mobile messaging psychosocial intervention in improving depressive symptomatology among older adults in socioeconomically deprived areas of Guarulhos, Brazil. Older adults (aged 60+ years) registered with 24 primary care clinics and identified with depressive symptomatology (9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) scores ≥ 10) received the 6-week Viva Vida intervention based on psychoeducation and behavioral activation (n = 298) or a single message (n = 305). No health professional support was offered. The primary outcome was improvement from depressive symptomatology (PHQ-9 < 10) at 3 months. Of the 603 participants enrolled (mean age = 65.1 years; 451 (74.8%) women), 527 (87.4%) completed the follow-up assessment. In the intervention arm, 109 of 257 (42.4%) participants had an improved depressive symptomatology, compared with 87 of 270 (32.2%) participants in the control arm (adjusted odds ratio = 1.57; 95% confidence interval = 1.07-2.29; P = 0.019). No severe adverse events related to trial participation were observed. These results demonstrate the usefulness of a digital messaging psychosocial intervention in the short-term improvement from depressive symptomatology that can potentially be integrated into primary care programs for treating older adults with depression. Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials registration: ReBEC ( RBR-4c94dtn ).

Use of WhatsApp by older adults screened for depression in socioeconomically deprived areas of Guarulhos, São Paulo State, Brazil: challenges and possibilities for telehealth.

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between sociodemographic characteristics, depressive symptomatology, mobile phone ownership, and different uses of WhatsApp among older adults enrolled in primary care clinics in Guarulhos, São Paulo State, Brazil. This is a secondary data analysis, using data collected in the screening of participants to be included in the PROACTIVE cluster randomized trial. Individuals aged ≥ 60 years, registered in primary care clinics in Guarulhos, were assessed for sociodemographic characteristics, depressive symptoms according to the PHQ-9, mobile phone ownership, and use of WhatsApp. We performed multiple logistic regression models to investigate characteristics of the potential users of digital interventions. Of 3,356 older adults screened for depression, 45.7% said they use WhatsApp to receive/send messages. In the subsample that presented depressive symptomatology (n = 1,020), 41.9% stated using WhatsApp. Younger older adults and those with better socioeconomic status used more WhatsApp and were more likely to own a mobile phone. Participants with higher levels of symptoms of depression were less likely to use WhatsApp. Gender, age, schooling level, income, and depressive symptomatology are variables associated with the possession of a cell phone and with the use of WhatsApp by the older adults of the sample. These findings can help to implement digital health programs better suited to disadvantaged populations in Brazil and other low- and middle-income countries through mental telehealth interventions using WhatsApp and mobile health services to the older people.

Digital psychosocial intervention for depression among older adults in socioeconomically deprived areas in Brazil (PRODIGITAL-D): protocol for an individually randomised controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Depression in older adults is a challenge for health systems in most low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Digital strategies for the management of this condition have been emerging worldwide, but the effectiveness of most of them is still unclear, especially among older adults. Thus, we aim to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a digital psychosocial intervention to treat depression among older adults living in socioeconomically deprived areas in Guarulhos, Brazil. METHODS: We will conduct a two-arm individually randomised controlled trial with 1:1 allocation ratio. Five hundred older adults aged 60 years or over with depressive symptomatology (9-item Patient Health Questionnaire score, PHQ-9 ≥ 10) and registered with one of the primary care clinics will be recruited to participate in this study. A 6-week digital psychosocial programme, named Viva Vida, will be delivered via WhatsApp to participants allocated to the intervention arm. The Viva Vida will send psychoeducational and behavioural activation audio and visual messages 4 days a week for 6 weeks. The control arm will only receive a single message with general information about depression. The primary outcome will be the proportion of depression recovery (PHQ-9 < 10) assessed at 3 months. The cost-effectiveness of the intervention will be assessed at 5 months. A detailed process evaluation will be used to explore context and important implementation outcomes. DISCUSSION: This programme was based on the PROACTIVE intervention and designed to be delivered without face-to-face contact. If effective, it could be a simple treatment option, appropriate not only when social distancing is required, but it could also be included as a regular public health programme to initiate depression treatment, particularly in LMICs where resources allocated to mental health are scarce. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos (ReBEC), RBR-4c94dtn. Registered on 22 October 2021 (submitted on 03 August 2021).

Use of WhatsApp by older adults screened for depression in socioeconomically deprived areas of Guarulhos, São Paulo State, Brazil: challenges and possibilities for telehealth / Uso do WhatsApp por idosos depressivos em áreas socioeconomicamente carentes de Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brasil: desafios e possibilidades para a telessaúde / Uso de WhatsApp por ancianos deprimidos en áreas desfavorecidas socioeconómicamente en Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brasil: retos y posibilidades de la telesalud

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between sociodemographic characteristics, depressive symptomatology, mobile phone ownership, and different uses of WhatsApp among older adults enrolled in primary care clinics in Guarulhos, São Paulo State, Brazil. This is a secondary data analysis, using data collected in the screening of participants to be included in the PROACTIVE cluster randomized trial. Individuals aged ≥ 60 years, registered in primary care clinics in Guarulhos, were assessed for sociodemographic characteristics, depressive symptoms according to the PHQ-9, mobile phone ownership, and use of WhatsApp. We performed multiple logistic regression models to investigate characteristics of the potential users of digital interventions. Of 3,356 older adults screened for depression, 45.7% said they use WhatsApp to receive/send messages. In the subsample that presented depressive symptomatology (n = 1,020), 41.9% stated using WhatsApp. Younger older adults and those with better socioeconomic status used more WhatsApp and were more likely to own a mobile phone. Participants with higher levels of symptoms of depression were less likely to use WhatsApp. Gender, age, schooling level, income, and depressive symptomatology are variables associated with the possession of a cell phone and with the use of WhatsApp by the older adults of the sample. These findings can help to implement digital health programs better suited to disadvantaged populations in Brazil and other low- and middle-income countries through mental telehealth interventions using WhatsApp and mobile health services to the older people.

Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar a relação entre características sociodemográficas, sintomatologia depressiva, posse de telefone celular e diferentes usos do WhatsApp entre idosos cadastrados em unidades básicas de saúde de Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brasil. Trata-se de uma análise de dados secundários com informações coletadas na triagem dos participantes a serem incluídos neste estudo randomizado em cluster PROATIVO. Indivíduos com 60 anos ou mais, cadastrados em unidades básicas de saúde de Guarulhos, foram avaliados quanto a características sociodemográficas, sintomas depressivos, de acordo com o PHQ-9, posse de telefone celular e uso do WhatsApp. Foram utilizados modelos de regressão logística múltipla para investigar as características dos potenciais usuários de intervenções digitais. Dos 3.356 idosos depressivos, 45,7% usavam o WhatsApp para receber/enviar mensagens. Na subamostra que apresentou sintomatologia depressiva (n = 1.020), 41,9% disseram usar o WhatsApp. Adultos mais jovens e com melhor status socioeconômico usavam mais o WhatsApp e eram mais propensos a possuir um telefone celular. Participantes com níveis mais altos de sintomas de depressão eram menos propensos a utilizar o WhatsApp. Sexo, idade, escolaridade, renda e sintomatologia depressiva são variáveis associadas à posse de telefone celular e ao uso do WhatsApp pelos idosos da população estudada. Esses achados podem ajudar a implementar programas de saúde digital mais adequados para populações desfavorecidas no Brasil e em outros países de baixa e média renda, principalmente intervenções de telessaúde mental que utilizem o WhatsApp e serviços móveis de saúde para idosos.

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo determinar la relación entre las características sociodemográficas, los síntomas depresivos, la tenencia de teléfono celular y los diferentes usos de WhatsApp entre los ancianos inscritos en unidades básicas de salud en Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brasil. Este es un análisis de datos secundarios, que recopiló la información del triaje de los participantes a ser incluidos en este estudio aleatorio en un clúster PROACTIVO. Se evaluaron las características sociodemográficas, los síntomas depresivos según el PHQ-9, la tenencia de celular y el uso de WhatsApp de los participantes de 60 años o más, registrados en unidades básicas de salud de Guarulhos. Se utilizaron los modelos de regresión logística múltiple para identificar las características de los potenciales usuarios de las intervenciones digitales. De los 3.356 ancianos deprimidos, el 45,7% utilizaba WhatsApp para recibir/enviar mensajes. En la submuestra que presentó síntomas depresivos (n = 1.020), el 41,9% dijo usar WhatsApp. Los adultos más jóvenes con mejor nivel socioeconómico usaban más WhatsApp y tenían más probabilidades de tener un teléfono celular. Los participantes con niveles más altos de síntomas de depresión tenían menos probabilidades de usar WhatsApp. El sexo, la edad, la educación, la renta y los síntomas depresivos fueron las variables asociadas a la tenencia de celular y al uso de WhatsApp por parte de los ancianos de la población estudiada. Estos hallazgos pueden ayudar a implementar programas de salud digital que sean más adecuados para las poblaciones desfavorecidas en Brasil y en otros países de bajos y medianos ingresos, en particular las intervenciones de telesalud mental que utilizan WhatsApp y servicios de salud móviles para ancianos.

Characteristics and perception of social support by patients with fibromyalgia in Facebook / Características e percepção de apoio social por pacientes com fibromialgia no Facebook

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Analyze the interactive behavior, characteristics, perception of social support, and interests of patients with fibromyalgia on online discussion groups. METHODS: A participatory netnography has been conducted for 6 months on Facebook in order to keep track of a fibromyalgia community with more than 8,000 members. An electronic survey composed by a validated social support scale was sent to the members of the group. Another online survey was applied by the group coordinator in order to build the users' profile. RESULTS: The online environment has often been indicated as the only place to get something off one's chest. Regular testimonials on social discrimination due to Fibromyalgia were recorded, coming from the family itself, from friends and even from health professionals. Patients' rights and new treatments are among the topics of greatest interest. The target group seemed to have a social echo, but it has difficulties to generate engagement among its members. Low social support was reported by most of the 444 respondents. However, many also criticized the group positively. There were 3,217 people who responded the survey applied by the coordinator: 97.5% female respondents, 86.2% were between 31 and 60 years old, 60.1% were diagnosed by a rheumatologist, 16.5% by an orthopedist, and 6.8% by a general practitioner. The five most unpleasant symptoms informed were: pain, anxiety, memory problem, irritability, and tingling. CONCLUSION: New forms of online education and social support for fibromyalgia on online groups are relevant resources to be considered in patient care programs.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Analisar o comportamento interativo, as características, a percepção de apoio social e os interesses de pacientes com fibromialgia em grupos de discussão online. MÉTODOS: Foi feita uma netnografia participativa que acompanhou por 6 meses uma comunidade de Fibromialgia com mais de 8.000 membros no Facebook. Um inquérito eletrônico sobre suporte social com escala validada foi enviado aos membros do grupo. Outro questionário online para traçar o perfil dos usuários foi aplicado pela coordenadora do grupo. RESULTADOS: O ambiente online foi apontado frequentemente como único local de desabafo. Registraram-se depoimentos regulares sobre discriminação social decorrentes da Fibromialgia - advindos da própria família, de amigos e, até mesmo, de profissionais de saúde. Direitos dos pacientes e novos tratamentos aparecem dentre os temas de maior interesse. O grupo acompanhado mostrou ter repercussão social, mas apresenta dificuldades para gerar envolvimento entre os membros. Baixo apoio social foi alegado pela maioria dos 444 respondentes. No entanto, muitos também criticaram positivamente o grupo. O questionário aplicado pela coordenadora teve 3.217 respondentes, a saber: 97,5% do sexo feminino; 86,2% com idade entre 31 e 60 anos; 60,1% cujo diagnóstico foi dado por um reumatologista, 16,5% por ortopedista e 6,8% por clínico geral. Os cinco principais sintomas mais desagradáveis citados pelos pacientes foram: dor, ansiedade, problema de memória, irritabilidade e formigamento. CONCLUSÃO: Novas formas de educação online e de apoio social em grupos virtuais para fibromialgia são recursos relevantes a serem considerados em programas de atenção a pacientes.

Support, attention and distant guidance for chronic pain patients. Case report / Apoio, acolhimento e orientações à distância para pacientes com dor crônica. Relato de caso

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Mutual help among patients and distant support tools - such as phone calls and online discussions - are promising strategies to manage chronic conditions, however still poorly explored in the context of pain. This study aimed at evaluating two different remote guidance methods able to help chronic patients: (I) phone calls and (II) engagement in online discussion groups for patients. CASE REPORT: To evaluate these two assistance models, a qualitative research model was used. Investigations have started as from practical needs of a Support Group for chronic pain patients in São Paulo. To evaluate approach (I), 15 semi-structured interviews were carried out with specialists working with telephone guidance. For approach (II), the ethnographic method was used where a Facebook fibromyalgia discussion group was followed up for three months. CONCLUSION: Both studied initiatives have positive results but still lack well structured and uniform protocols. Interviews have shown that distant support practices for chronic patients could be expanded for a larger number of diseases.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A ajuda mútua entre pacientes e as ferramentas de apoio à distância - como telefonemas e discussões online - são estratégias promissoras no manuseio das condições crônicas, mas ainda pouco exploradas no contexto da dor. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar duas diferentes formas de orientação remota capazes de auxiliar pacientes crônicos: (I) ligações telefônicas e (II) engajamento em grupo de discussão online para pacientes. RELATO DO CASO: Para analisar esses dois modelos de assistência utilizou-se um modelo qualitativo de pesquisa. As investigações surgiram a partir de necessidades práticas de um Grupo de Apoio para pacientes com dor crônica de São Paulo. Para analisar a abordagem (I) foram feitas 15 entrevistas semiestruturadas com especialistas que trabalham com orientação telefônica. Para a abordagem (II) utilizou-se o método etnográfico, em que um Grupo de discussão para fibromialgia presente no Facebook foi acompanhado por 3 meses. CONCLUSÃO: As duas iniciativas investigadas têm mostrado resultados positivos, mas ainda carecem de protocolos bem estruturados e uniformes. As entrevistas conduzidas mostram que as práticas de apoio à distância para pacientes crônicos poderiam se estender para um maior número de doenças.

O estresse e a máquina de moer alunos do ensino superior: vamos repensar nossa política educacional? / Stress and the machine to grind higher education students: let's rethink our educational policy?

O objetivo da presente pesquisa foi investigar a forma em que a rotina acadêmica interfere nos níveis de estresse de alunos de graduação, explorando as situações geradoras e/ou mantenedoras das situações vivenciadas. O recorte da pesquisa focou em uma amostra heterogênea de 102 acadêmicos de graduação em uma primeira fase e depois 82 alunos de diversos cursos de uma universidade particular de São Paulo. Foram aplicados questionários abertos e o Inventário de Sintomas de Stress (ISS) para adultos. O estudo revela que a maioria dos alunos considera que a rotina universitária tem grande influência negativa nos níveis de estresse e as maiores críticas são com relação à sobrecarga de atividades. Os dados coletados apontam para a necessidade de uma significativa reformulação da educação superior, com destaque para alterações na política curricular. Sugere-se também que as universidades fomentem programas de apoio psicossocial e projetos capazes de minimizar o estresse vivenciado pelos alunos.

The objective of the present research was to investigate the way in which the academic routine interferes in the stress levels of undergraduate students, exploring the situations generating and/or maintaining the situations experienced. The research has focused on a heterogeneous sample of 102 undergraduate students in a first phase and then 82 academics from several courses at a private university in São Paulo. An open questionnaires and the Stress Symptom Inventory (ISS) for adults were applied in the research. The study reveals that the majority of students consider that the university routine has a great negative influence on the levels of stress and the biggest criticisms are regarding the overload of activities. The data collected point to the need for a significant reformulation of higher education, with emphasis on changes in curricular policy. It is also suggested that universities should promote psychosocial support programs and projects that can minimize the stress experienced by students.

Inquérito sobre nível de conhecimento e participação em Normas Brasileiras de Informática em Saúde / Survey about knowledge level and participation in Brazilian Health Standards / Encuesta de nivel de conocimiento y la participación en las Normas Brasileñas de Informática de la Salud

A padronização por meio de normas técnicas ABNT/CEE-78 representa uma forma de incrementar a adoção de tecnologias da informação e comunicação na área da saúde. Entretanto, parte dos profissionais e estudantes de áreas relacionadas à informática em saúde ainda desconhecem esse tema. Objetivo: identificar o nível de conhecimento das normas técnicas ABNT/CEE-78 por profissionais e estudantes de Informática em saúde. Método: foi elaborado um inquérito seguindo as etapas de pesquisa bibliográfica e construção de um questionário online. Resultados: 110 participantes responderam ao questionário, sendo 64% com idade entre 20 e 40 anos e 47% da área de exatas. Apesar de 77% apontarem conhecer a ABNT, somente 2% participam das atividades da ABNT/CEE-78, mas 58% demonstraram interesse em participar e promovê-las. Conclusão: Foi possível identificar que embora a grande maioria dos participantes conheça a ABNT, poucos possuem conhecimento sobre normas da área da Informática em Saúde.

The standardization of technical standards by ABNT/CEE-78 is a way to increase the adoption of information and communication technologies in health area. However, the professionals and students related to health informatics areas are still unaware of this issue. Objective: Identify the level of knowledge of technical standards ABNT / CEE-78 for professionals and students in health informatics. Method:  a survey was prepared following the steps of bibliographic research and building an online questionnaire. Results: 110 participants completed the survey, with 64% between 20 and 40 years old and 47% in the exact sciences area. Although 77% know about ABNT, only 2% participate in ABNT/CEE-78 activities, but 58% expressed interest in participating and promoting them. Conclusion: It was possible to identify that despite a mojority of participants knows about ABNT, only few have knoldgement about health informatics standards.

La estandarización de las normas técnicas a través de la ABNT / CEE-78 es una forma de aumentar la adopción de tecnologías de la información y de la comunicación en la asistencia sanitaria. Sin embargo, los profesionales y estudiantes de las áreas de informática relacionados con la salud todavía no son conscientes de este problema. Objetivo: Identificar el nivel de conocimiento de las normas técnicas ABNT / CEE-78 para profesionales y estudiantes de informática de la salud. Método: una encuesta se desarrolló siguiendo los pasos de la investigación bibliográfica y la construcción de un cuestionario en línea. Resultados: 110 participantes completaron el cuestionario, 64% tenían edad entre 20 y 40 años y 47% son de las ciencias exactas. A pesar de que 77% indicaron conocer la ABNT, sólo 2% participa en actividades de ABNT / CEE-78, pero 58% expresó su interés en participacion y promoción de las mismas. Conclusión: El estudio identificó que aunque la gran mayoría de los participantes sabe ABNT, pocos tienen conocimiento de las normas en el campo de la Informática de la Salud.

Comportamento de pacientes em buscas por informação de saúde online e correlações com idade, escolaridade, renda e interação médica / Behavior of patients in search for health information online and correlations with age, education, income and medical interaction / El comportamiento de los pacientes en búsqueda de información de salud en línea y correlaciones con la edad, la educación, los ingresos y la interacción médica

OBJETIVO: analisar como o usuário leigo se relaciona com a internet para saúde, com foco no momento pré e pós consulta médica. MÉTODO: Estudo transversal analítico envolvendo 1828 indivíduos que responderam a um inquérito eletrônico disponibilizado em um portal de grande acesso. RESULTADOS: Aproximadamente 90% dos respondentes eram do sexo feminino e buscavam informações para própria saúde ou de familiares, 80% considera a internet uma de suas principais fontes de informação em saúde, 76% atribui alta confiança a informações de especialistas, mas tende a desconfiar de buscadores simples como Google. Escolaridade, idade e renda interferiram na relação entre paciente-médico e internet para tomada de decisão em saúde (p < 0,004). CONCLUSÃO: A internet é uma relevante fonte de informação em saúde para população e as variáveis estudadas têm interferência significativa na relação entre paciente, seus médicos e a internet.

OBJECTIVE: to analyze how the lay user relates to the internet for health, focusing on the pre and post doctor appointment, and describing the correlations with age, gender, schooling, and income. METHODS: A cross-sectional study involving 1828 individuals who responded to an online questionnaire available in a large access portal. RESULTS: Approximately 90% of respondents were female and were seeking information for their own health or family, 80% consider the Internet one of its main sources of health information, 76% attaches high confidence information from experts, but were bound to mistrust search engines like Google. Education, age and income interfered with the relationship between patient-physician and internet for health decision-making (p <0.004). CONCLUSION: The Internet is an important source of health information for the population and the variables have significant interference in the relationship between patients, their doctors and the internet.

OBJETIVO: analizar la forma en que el usuario lego se refiere a la Internet para la salud, centrándose en pre ypost tiempo de consulta médica y de dibujo correlaciones con la edad, el género, la educación y los ingresos. MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal que incluyó a 1828 personas que respondieron a un cuestionario en línea disponible en el portal deacceso grande. RESULTADOS: Aproximadamente el 90% de los encuestados eran mujeres y estaban buscando informaciónpara su propia salud o la familia, el 80% consideran que Internet es una de sus principales fuentes de información desalud, el 76% se conecta información de alta confianza por parte de los expertos, pero tiende a desconfiar Los motoresde búsqueda como Google simples. La educación, la edad y los ingresos interfirieron con la relación entre el pacientey el médico e internet para la salud la toma de decisiones (p <0,004). CONCLUSIÓN: La Internet es una fuente importantede información sobre la salud de la población y las variables tienen una interferencia significativa en la relación entrelos pacientes, sus médicos y el Internet.

Access to health information on the internet: a public health issue?

OBJECTIVE: To progress in the understanding of the user profile and of search trends for health information on the internet. METHODS: Analyses were performed based on 1,828 individuals who completed an electronic questionnaire available on a very popular health website. At the same time, through the "elite survey" method, 20 specialists were interviewed, aiming at assessing quality control strategies regarding health information disseminated online. RESULTS: A predominance of female users who research information for themselves (= 90%), who consider the internet one of their main sources of health information (86%), and who spend from 5 to 35 hours online every week (62%) was verified. High reliability is assigned to information from specialists (76%), and low reliability to television, radio, or blogs (14%). CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that the internet is proving to be a major source of health information for the population, and that website certification is a strategy to be contemplated to improve the quality of information and to promote public health.

Acesso a informações de saúde na internet: uma questão de saúde pública? / Access to health information on the internet: a public health issue?

OBJETIVO: Avançar no entendimento sobre o perfil do usuário e as tendências de busca por informações de saúde na internet. MÉTODOS: As análises foram feitas a partir de 1.828 indivíduos que responderam a um questionário eletrônico disponibilizado em um portal de saúde de grande acesso. Paralelamente, por meio do método de "survey de elites", 20 especialistas foram entrevistados para avaliar estratégias de controle de qualidade das informações de saúde veiculadas na rede. RESULTADOS: Verificou-se o predomínio de usuários do gênero feminino que buscam informações para própria saúde(= 90%), que consideram a internet uma de suas principais fontes de informação em saúde (86%) e passam de 5 a 35 horas na web por semana (62%). Atribui-se alta confiança às informações vindas de especialistas (76%) e baixa confiança na televisão, rádio ou blogs (14%). CONCLUSãO: Conclui-se que a internet tem-se mostrado uma fonte de informação em saúde de grande relevância para população e que a certificação de sites é uma estratégia a ser considerada, na perspectiva de melhoria da qualidade das informações e promoção da saúde pública.

OBJECTIVE: To progress in the understanding of the user profile and of search trends for health information on the internet. METHODS: Analyses were performed based on 1,828 individuals who completed an electronic questionnaire available on a very popular health website. At the same time, through the "elite survey" method, 20 specialists were interviewed, aiming at assessing quality control strategies regarding health information disseminated online. RESULTS: A predominance of female users who research information for themselves (= 90%), who consider the internet one of their main sources of health information (86%), and who spend from 5 to 35 hours online every week (62%) was verified. High reliability is assigned to information from specialists (76%), and low reliability to television, radio, or blogs (14%). CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that the internet is proving to be a major source of health information for the population, and that website certification is a strategy to be contemplated to improve the quality of information and to promote public health.

Combined therapy (ultrasound and interferential current) in patients with fibromyalgia: once or twice in a week?

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Combined Therapy (CT) composed of ultrasound and Interferential Therapy has been reported as a cost-effective, local analgesic intervention on tender points in Fibromyalgia (FM). This study aims to investigate the difference between CT applied once a week and twice a week in patients with FM. METHOD: Fifty patients with the diagnosis of FM were randomized into two groups (G1 = once a week treatment and G2 = twice a week treatment) with each group containing 25 patients. All eighteen tender points were assessed and treated with CT during each session, over a three-month time period. Interferential Therapy was modulated at 4,000 Hz of current carrier, 100 Hz of amplitude modulated frequency and at a bearable sensorial threshold of intensity. Pulsed ultrasound of 1 MHz at 20% of 2.5 W/cm² was used. For evaluation, the Visual Analogue Scale, Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, Post Sleep Inventory and the tender point count were utilized, and the examiner was blinded to the group assignments. RESULTS: G1 and G2 showed a significant improvement in Visual Analogue Scale (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.0005, respectively), Tender Points (p < 0.005 and p < 0.001, respectively), Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire and Post Sleep Inventory (p < 0.005 and p < 0.05, respectively). However, there was no significant difference between the two groups in all performed analyses. CONCLUSION: There is no advantage in increasing the number of sessions of combined therapy in terms of reducing generalized pain, quality of life and sleep quality for patients with FM.

Assessing knowledge on fibromyalgia among Internet users.

OBJECTIVE: To assess knowledge on fibromyalgia in a sample of patients, their families, and professionals interested on the theme from some Brazilian states. METHODS: Analysis of the results of an electronic fibromyalgia knowledge questionnaire completed by 362 adults who had access to the the support group for fibromyalgia site (www.unifesp.br/grupos/fibromialgia). The answers were grouped according to age, sex, years of schooling, and type of interest in the condition. RESULTS: 92% of the responders were women and 62% had higher educational level. The worst results were observed in the "joint protection and energy conservation" domain, followed by the "medication in fibromyalgia" domain. The best results were recorded in the "exercises in fibromyalgia" domain. The answers differed significantly between sexes, and women achieved a higher percentage of correct answers. The female sex accounted for a statistically superior result in five statistical analyses (four questions and one domain). CONCLUSIONS: The study suggests the need for a strategic planning for an educational approach to fibromyalgia in Brazil.

Avaliação do nível de conhecimento sobre fibromialgia entre usuários da internet / Assessing knowledge on fibromyalgia among internet users

OBJETIVO: Analisar o nível de conhecimento sobre fibromialgia em uma amostra incluindo pacientes, familiares e profissionais de vários estados do Brasil. MÉTODOS: Análise dos resultados de 362 adultos que acessaram o site do Grupo de Apoio à Fibromialgia (www.unifesp.br/grupos/fibromialgia) e responderam a um questionário eletrônico de conhecimento sobre a síndrome. As respostas foram avaliadas em relação a idade, sexo, nível de escolaridade e tipo de interesse no Grupo. RESULTADOS: 92 por cento eram mulheres e 62 por cento haviam completado o ensino superior. O pior resultado foi no domínio "proteção articular e conservação de energia", seguido pelo domínio "conhecimento sobre medicação". O melhor resultado ocorreu no domínio "exercícios para fibromialgia". Houve diferença significativa entre os gêneros, sendo as mulheres responsáveis por um porcentual maior de acertos. O gênero feminino foi responsável por um resultado estatisticamente superior em cinco análises estatísticas (quatro perguntas e um domínio). CONCLUSÕES: O estudo sugere a necessidade de um planejamento estratégico para ações educativas sobre fibromialgia no Brasil.

OBJECTIVE: To assess knowledge on fibromyalgia in a sample of patients, their families, and professionals interested on the theme from some Brazilian states. METHODS: Analysis of the results of an electronic fibromyalgia knowledge questionnaire completed by 362 adults who had access to the the support group for fibromyalgia site (www.unifesp.br/grupos/fibromialgia). The answers were grouped according to age, sex, years of schooling, and type of interest in the condition. RESULTS: 92 percent of the responders were women and 62 percent had higher educational level. The worst results were observed in the "joint protection and energy conservation" domain, followed by the "medication in fibromyalgia" domain. The best results were recorded in the "exercises in fibromyalgia" domain. The answers differed significantly between sexes, and women achieved a higher percentage of correct answers. The female sex accounted for a statistically superior result in five statistical analyses (four questions and one domain). CONCLUSIONS: The study suggests the need for a strategic planning for an educational approach to fibromyalgia in Brazil.

Characterization of support groups and patient associations for individuals with rheumatologic disease in Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze organizational characteristics of support groups that represent rheumatic patients in the Brazilian states. METHODS: Initially a mapping of the desired universe was made. Contact was attempted with all organizations and they were asked to answer a structuralized electronic questionnaire with the purpose of understanding the profile of these organizations (developed initiatives, legal aspects, difficulties, strong points, among others). RESULTS: 45 organizations were identified. They predominate in the south and southeastern regions of the country. Of the total, 30% have a website and 50% presented difficulties to establish contact with. Of the 12 organizations that answered to the questionnaire, 5 had closed, one is on a construction phase, and the remaining was not possible to establish contact with, or did not answer the research. Of the organizations that answered the questionnaire, only one declared having an OSCIP title (Civil Social Organization of Public Interest) or a Social Organization title and only one declared being registered at the National Council of Social Assistance (CNAS). Moreover, 50% did not present a public utility title, 25% were registered in a registry office and only 1/3 declared being registered in the City Council of Social Assistance (CMAS). CONCLUSIONS: The studied groups present heterogeneous characteristics. Of the organizations studied, some showed to be more solid and well-structured, but others showed important intrinsic difficulties, with an incipient profile or characteristics that demonstrate little survival expectation.

Caracterização dos grupos de apoio e associações de pacientes portadores de doença reumatológica no Brasil / Characterization of support groups and patient associations for individuals with rheumatologic disease in Brazil

OBJETIVO: Analisar as características organizacionais dos grupos de apoio e associações que representam pacientes reumáticos nos estados brasileiros. MÉTODOS: Inicialmente foi feito um mapeamento do universo desejado. Em seguida foi feita tentativa de contato com todas as entidades mapeadas, para que respondessem a um questionário eletrônico estruturado com a finalidade de entender o perfil destas organizações (iniciativas desenvolvidas, aspectos técnicos e legais, dificuldades encontradas, pontos fortes, entre outros). RESULTADOS: Foram identificadas 45 entidades, que predominam na região Sul e Sudeste do país. Do total, 30 por cento possuem web-site e 50 por cento apresentam contatos de difícil acesso. Recebemos resposta de 12 associações, cinco fecharam, uma se apresenta em fase de construção e o restante não foi possível estabelecer contato ou não respondeu à pesquisa. Das organizações que responderam ao questionário, somente uma declarou possuir titulação de OSCIP (Organização Social Civil de Interesse Público) ou de OS (Organização Social); assim como, somente uma declarou possuir registro no Conselho Nacional de Assistência Social (CNAS). Além do que, 50 por cento não apresentam titulações de utilidade pública, 25 por cento não apresentam registro em cartório e apenas 1/3 declarou possuir registro no Conselho Municipal de Assistência Social (CMAS). CONCLUSÕES: Os grupos estudados apresentam características bem heterogêneas quanto ao perfil organizacional. Dentre as entidades analisadas, algumas demonstram ser mais sólidas e estruturadas e outras apresentam dificuldades intrínsecas importantes, um perfil incipiente ou características que denotam pouca sobrevida.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze organizational characteristics of support groups that represent rheumatic patients in the Brazilian states. METHODS: Initially a mapping of the desired universe was made. Contact was attempted with all organizations and they were asked to answer a structuralized electronic questionnaire with the purpose of understanding the profile of these organizations (developed initiatives, legal aspects, difficulties, strong points, among others). RESULTS: 45 organizations were identified. They predominate in the south and southeastern regions of the country. Of the total, 30 percent have a website and 50 percent presented difficulties to establish contact with. Of the 12 organizations that answered to the questionnaire, 5 had closed, one is on a construction phase, and the remaining was not possible to establish contact with, or did not answer the research. Of the organizations that answered the questionnaire, only one declared having an OSCIP title (Civil Social Organization of Public Interest) or a Social Organization title and only one declared being registered at the National Council of Social Assistance (CNAS). Moreover, 50 percent did not present a public utility title, 25 percent were registered in a registry office and only 1/3 declared being registered in the City Council of Social Assistance (CMAS). CONCLUSIONS: The studied groups present heterogeneous characteristics. Of the organizations studied, some showed to be more solid and well-structured, but others showed important intrinsic difficulties, with an incipient profile or characteristics that demonstrate little survival expectation.