Predictors of early child development for screening pregnant women most in need of support in Brazil.

Background: Home visiting programmes can support child development and reduce inequalities, but failure to identify the most vulnerable families can undermine such efforts. We examined whether there are strong predictors of poor child development that could be used to screen pregnant women in primary health care settings to target early interventions in a Brazilian population. Considering selected predictors, we assessed coverage and focus of a large-scale home visiting programme named Primeira Infância Melhor (PIM). Methods: We undertook a prospective cohort study on 3603 children whom we followed from gestation to age four years. We then used 27 potential socioeconomic, psychosocial, and clinical risk factors measurable during pregnancy to predict child development, which was assessed by the Battelle Developmental Inventory (BDI) at the age of four years. We compared the results from a Bonferroni-adjusted conditional inference tree with exploratory linear regression and principal component analysis (PCA), and we conducted external validation using data from a second cohort from the same population. Lastly, we assessed PIM coverage and focus by linking 2015 cohort data with PIM databases. Results: The decision tree analyses identified maternal schooling as the most important variable for predicting BDI, followed by paternal schooling. Based on these variables, a group of 214 children who had the lowest mean BDI (BDI = -0.48; 95% confidence interval (CI) = -0.63, -0.33) was defined by mothers with ≤5 years and fathers with ≤4 years of schooling. Maternal and paternal schooling were also the strongest predictors in the exploratory analysis using regression and PCA, showing linear associations with the outcome. However, their capacity to explain outcome variance was low, with an adjusted R2 of 5.3% and an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.62 (95% CI = 0.60, 0.64). External validation showed consistent results. We also provided an online screening tool using parental schooling data to support programme's targeting. PIM coverage during pregnancy was low, but the focus was adequate, especially among families with longer enrolment, indicating families most in need received higher dosage. Conclusions: Information on maternal and paternal schooling can improve the focus of home visiting programmes if used for initial population-level screening of pregnant women in Brazil. However, enrolment decisions require complementary information on parental resources and direct interactions with families to jointly decide on inclusion.

Why are pregnant women physically inactive? A qualitative study on the beliefs and perceptions about physical activity during pregnancy / Por que as gestantes não são fisicamente ativas? Um estudo qualitativo sobre as crenças e percepções em relação à atividade física durante a gestação / ¿Por qué las mujeres embarazadas no hacen actividad física? Un estudio cualitativo sobre las creencias y percepciones relacionadas con la actividad física durante el embarazo

This study aimed to describe the beliefs and perceptions of pregnant women and healthcare providers about physical activity during pregnancy. Using a qualitative approach, 30 pregnant women and the 14 healthcare providers caring for them were interviewed in the second trimester of pregnancy. We included women who maintained, decreased, or stopped physical activity since becoming pregnant. They were divided into low (≤ 8 years) and high schooling (> 8 years). Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted and guided by three key questions: (1) When does physical activity during pregnancy start to be considered a wrong behavior?; (2) What are the main barriers (biological or others) to physical activity?; and (3) Do the actions of healthcare providers and people close to pregnant women reinforce barriers? Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed based on recurring themes. All women changed their physical activity behavior (decreased or stopped) when they discovered their pregnancy. Fear of miscarriage, contractions, bleeding, and of causing malformations in the baby were the most reported reasons for decreasing or stopping physical activity. Participants also lacked access to consistent information and healthcare providers' support on the benefits of physical activity. Despite the current international recommendations to regular physical activity during pregnancy, uncertainty regarding its benefits remains. Interventions to promote physical activity during this period should include the training of healthcare providers so they can advise and discard ideas contrary to mother-child health benefits.

Este estudo objetivou descrever as crenças e percepções de gestantes e profissionais de saúde em relação a prática de atividade física durante a gestação. Usando uma abordagem qualitativa, 30 gestantes e 14 profissionais de saúde que atendiam essas mulheres foram entrevistados durante o segundo trimestre de gravidez. Foram incluídas mulheres que mantiveram, diminuíram ou pararam de praticar atividade física desde o início gravidez. Elas foram divididas em baixa (≤ 8 anos) e alta escolaridade (> 8 anos). Foram conduzidas entrevistas semiestruturadas e aprofundadas, orientadas por três perguntas-chave: (1) Quando a atividade física durante a gestação passa a ser considerada um comportamento errado? (2) Quais as principais barreiras (biológicas ou outras) para a prática de atividade física? (3) Estas barreiras são reforçadas pelas ações dos profissionais de saúde e das pessoas próximas à gestante? As entrevistas foram gravadas em áudio, transcritas e analisadas a partir de temas recorrentes. Todas as mulheres mudaram a prática de atividade física (diminuíram ou pararam) quando souberam da gravidez. O medo de aborto espontâneo, contrações e/ou sangramento e o medo de causar malformações no bebê foram os motivos mais relatados para diminuir ou parar a atividade física. Os participantes também não tiveram acesso a informações confiáveis e apoio dos profissionais de saúde sobre os benefícios da atividade física. Apesar das recomendações internacionais atuais para a prática regular de atividade física durante a gestação, a incerteza quanto aos seus benefícios continua sendo comum. As intervenções para promover a atividade física durante esse período devem incluir o treinamento de profissionais de saúde para que eles possam aconselhar e descartar ideias contrárias aos benefícios para a saúde materna e infantil.

El objetivo de este estudio fue describir las creencias y percepciones de mujeres embarazadas y profesionales de la salud con respecto a la práctica de actividad física durante el embarazo. Utilizando un enfoque cualitativo, se entrevistaron 30 mujeres embarazadas y 14 profesionales de salud que cuidaban a estas mujeres durante el segundo trimestre del embarazo. Se incluyeron mujeres que mantuvieron, redujeron o dejaron de practicar actividad física desde el inicio del embarazo. Ellas se dividieron en baja (≤ 8 años) y alta escolaridad (> 8 años). Se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas y en profundidad, guiadas por tres preguntas clave: (1) ¿Cuándo se considera que la actividad física durante el embarazo es un comportamiento incorrecto? (2) ¿Cuáles son las barreras (biológicas u otras) principales para la práctica de actividad física? (3) ¿Estas barreras se refuerzan por las acciones de los profesionales de salud y de las personas cercanas a la mujer embarazada? Las entrevistas fueron grabadas en audio, transcritas y analizadas a partir de temas recurrentes. Todas las mujeres cambiaron la práctica de actividad física (redujeron o dejaron de practicarla) cuando descubrieron el embarazo. El miedo a sufrir un aborto espontáneo, contracciones y/o sangrado y el miedo a provocar malformaciones en el bebé fueron los motivos más relatados para reducir o dejar de practicar la actividad física. Los participantes también no han tenido acceso a informaciones confiables ni apoyo de los profesionales de salud sobre los beneficios de la actividad física. A pesar de las recomendaciones internacionales actuales para la práctica regular de actividad física durante el embarazo, la incertidumbre cuanto a sus beneficios sigue siendo común. Las intervenciones para promover la actividad física durante este periodo deben incluir la capacitación de profesionales de salud para que puedan aconsejar y descartar ideas contrarias a los beneficios para la salud materna e infantil.

Secular trends and social inequalities in child behavioural problems across three Brazilian cohort studies (1993, 2004 and 2015).

AIMS: Previous epidemiological evidence identified a concerning increase in behavioural problems among young children from 1997 to 2008 in Brazil. However, it is unclear whether behavioural problems have continued to increase, if secular changes vary between sociodemographic groups and what might explain changes over time. We aimed to monitor changes in child behavioural problems over a 22-year period from 1997 to 2019, examine changing social inequalities and explore potential explanations for recent changes in behavioural problems between 2008 and 2019. METHODS: The Child Behaviour Checklist was used to compare parent-reported behavioural problems in 4-year-old children across three Brazilian birth cohorts assessed in 1997 (1993 cohort, n = 633), 2008 (2004 cohort, n = 3750) and 2019 (2015 cohort, n = 577). Response rates across all three population-based cohorts were over 90%. Moderation analyses tested if cross-cohort changes differed by social inequalities (demographic and socioeconomic position), while explanatory models explored whether changes in hypothesized risk and protective factors in prenatal development (e.g., smoking during pregnancy) and family life (e.g., maternal depression and harsh parenting) accounted for changes in child behavioural problems from 2008 to 2019. RESULTS: Initial increases in child behavioural problems from 1997 to 2008 were followed by declines in conduct problems (mean change = -2.75; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -3.56, -1.94; P < 0.001), aggression (mean change = -1.84; 95% CI: -2.51, -1.17; P < 0.001) and rule-breaking behaviour (mean change = -0.91; 95% CI: -1.13, -0.69 P < 0.001) from 2008 to 2019. Sex differences in rule-breaking behaviour diminished during this 22-year period, whereas socioeconomic inequalities in behavioural problems emerged in 2008 and then remained relatively stable. Consequently, children from poorer and less educated families had higher behavioural problems, compared to more socially advantaged children, in the two more recent cohorts. Changes in measured risk and protective factors partly explained the reduction in behavioural problems from 2008 to 2019. CONCLUSIONS: Following a rise in child behavioural problems, there was a subsequent reduction in behavioural problems from 2008 to 2019. However, social inequalities increased and remained high. Continued monitoring of behavioural problems by subgroups is critical for closing the gap between socially advantaged and disadvantaged children and achieving health equity for the next generation.

Determinants of hair cortisol in preschool children and their mothers: A Brazilian birth cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: Few large-scale studies have provided population-based estimates of hair cortisol levels and its determinants. Hair cortisol and potential determinants were measured in children and their mothers in a population-based sample in a Brazilian city with large variations in socioeconomic conditions. METHODS: We used data from the 4-year follow-up of the 2015 Pelotas (Brazil) Birth Cohort Study. Hair samples were collected by trained fieldworkers to analyze average levels of cortisol over a 3-month period. Four groups of variables were tested as potential determinants: hair characteristics (natural color, treatment, type, and frequency of wash), use of corticosteroids and oral contraceptives, sociodemographic factors (sex, age, skin color, socioeconomic level, maternal relationship, pregnancy, daycare enrollment), maternal perceived stress, and substance exposure (smoking and illicit drug use). Linear regression with log transformation was used to test associations. RESULTS: 3235 children and 3102 mothers were analyzed (80.7% and 77.4% of those interviewed when children were 4 years of age, respectively), for whom sufficient hair was collected for cortisol analysis. The median of hair cortisol concentration was 7.8 pg/mg (IQR = 5.6 - 11.0) for children, and 5.6 pg/mg (IQR = 4.2 - 7.8) for mothers. In adjusted models, sex and socioeconomic level were associated with child cortisol levels. For mothers, hair cortisol levels were associated with socioeconomic level, skin color, age, hair treatment and hair natural color. CONCLUSION: This study provides estimates of hair cortisol levels in a diverse population in a upper-middle income country. Although just a few predictors were associated with maternal/child cortisol levels, socioeconomic level was the key variable that should be incorporated in studies using hair cortisol to measure biological manifestations of stress, but other variables, such as some hair and sociodemographic characteristics are important to consider when using hair cortisol.

Folic acid supplementation during pregnancy and postpartum depressive symptoms / Suplementação de ácido fólico na gestação e sintomas depressivos pós-parto

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To verify whether folic acid supplementation during pregnancy is associated with the occurrence of maternal depressive symptoms at three months postpartum, in the 2015 Pelotas Birth Cohort. METHODS This study included 4,046 women, who were classified into three groups: did not use folic acid supplementation during pregnancy; used during only one trimester of pregnancy; and used for two or three trimesters. Depressive symptoms were assessed at three months postpartum using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), at cutoff points ≥ 10 (mild symptoms) and ≥ 13 (moderate to severe intensity). RESULTS The overall prevalence of mild symptoms was of 20.2% (95%CI 19.0-21.5), and moderate and severe was 11% (95%CI 10.0-12.0). The prevalence of EPDS ≥ 10 was of 26.8% (95%CI 24.0-29.5) among women who did not use folic acid and 18.1% for both those who used it during one trimester of pregnancy (95%CI 16.1-20.1) and those who used it for two or three trimesters (95%CI 16.0-20.2). The prevalence of EPDS ≥ 13 was of 15.7% (95%CI 13.5-17.9) in those who did not use folic acid, 9.1% (95%CI 7.5-10.6) in those who used it for one trimester, and 9.4% (95%CI 7.8-11.0) in those who used it for two or three trimesters. In the adjusted analyses, there was no statistically significant association between the use of folic acid during pregnancy and the occurrence of depressive symptoms at three months postpartum. CONCLUSION There was no association between folic acid supplementation during pregnancy and postpartum depression at three months.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Verificar se a suplementação de ácido fólico durante a gestação está associada com a ocorrência de sintomas depressivos maternos aos três meses pós-parto, na Coorte de Nascimentos de Pelotas de 2015. MÉTODOS Este estudo incluiu 4.046 mulheres, que foram classificadas em três grupos: sem suplementação de ácido fólico na gestação; uso durante apenas um trimestre da gestação;e uso durante dois ou três trimestres. Os sintomas depressivos foram avaliados aos três meses pós-parto, através da Escala de Depressão Pós-Natal de Edimburgo (EPDS), nos pontos de corte ≥ 10 (sintomas leves) e ≥ 13 (intensidade moderada a grave). RESULTADOS A prevalência geral de sintomas leves foi de 20,2% (IC95% 19,0-21,5),e moderados e graves de 11% (IC95% 10,0-12,0). Entre as mulheres que não fizeram uso de ácido fólico, a prevalência de EPDS ≥ 10 foi de 26,8% (IC95% 24,0-29,5) e 18,1% tanto entre as que utilizaram durante um trimestre da gestação (IC95% 16,1-20,1), quanto entre as que utilizaram por dois ou três trimestres (IC95% 16,0-20,2). Já a prevalência de EPDS ≥ 13 foi 15,7% (IC95% 13,5-17,9) entre as que não utilizaram ácido fólico, 9,1% (IC95% 7,5-10,6) entre as que utilizaram durante um trimestre e 9,4% (IC95% 7,8-11,0) entre as que utilizaram por dois ou três trimestres. Nas análises ajustadas, não houve associação estatisticamente significativa entre o uso de ácido fólico na gestação e a ocorrência de sintomas depressivos aos três meses pós-parto. CONCLUSÃO Não se observou associação entre a suplementação de ácido fólico na gestação e depressão pós-parto aos três meses.

Internet addiction and depressive symptoms: a dose-response effect mediated by levels of physical activity

Abstract Introduction There are several negative impacts on the physical and mental health of people presenting internet addiction, including development of mood disorders, such as depression. Objective The aim of the study was to evaluate the association between internet addiction and depressive symptoms, as well as to test the mediating role of physical activity in this association. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with undergraduate students from three universities (one private and two public institutions) in southern Brazil. Depressive symptoms were measured with the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-21), internet addiction with the Internet Addiction Test (IAT-20), and physical activity with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ - short version). Poisson regression and the Karlson-Holm-Breen mediation method were used for statistical analyses. Results We observed a dose-response relationship between internet addiction and depressive symptoms. Levels of physical activity mediated the association between moderate internet addiction and depressive symptoms, accounting for 10.7% of the effect observed. Conclusion Internet addiction can be detrimental to individuals' health, contributing to development of depressive symptoms. Along with psychological and pharmacological therapies, prescription of physical activities is recommended.

Physical Activity and Breast Cancer: A Case-Control Study in Southern Brazil.

Physical inactivity is one of the greatest public health challenges in the 21st century. More than five million deaths a year are caused by lack of physical activity (PA) around the world. Despite its relevance to public health, about one-third of the world's adults do not meet current PA recommendations for health benefits. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the association between lifetime PA and risk of breast cancer. A case-control study was conducted between November 2016 and June 2017. The cases were recruited from all cancer centers in the city of Pelotas in southern Brazil. Each case was age-matched (±5 years) with a neighborhood control enrolled based on nearby addresses of the cases. Overall, 230 cases and 231 controls were included. Lifetime leisure-time PA may decrease the odds of breast cancer (adjusted OR = 0.44; 95%CI 0.23-0.86) in the comparison between the most active with the least active quartile. PA was associated with a reduction in the odds of breast cancer. Future studies should aim at understanding the physiological pathways that could explain how an active lifestyle influences this disease, helping in the establishment of volume and intensities necessary to obtain the benefits.

Ultra-processed food consumption by children from a Pelotas Birth Cohort / Consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados por crianças de uma Coorte de Nascimentos de Pelotas

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE Assessing the regular consumption of ultra-processed foods by children at 24 months of age from the 2015 Pelotas Birth Cohort and the main demographic, socioeconomic, and behavioral factors related to the consumption of these products. METHODS Population-based cohort in the city of Pelotas, RS, where 4,275 children were assessed at birth and 95.4% of them were followed up until 24 months of age. Food consumption was assessed by a questionnaire on regular consumption of ultra-processed foods, which collected information regarding sex, household income, maternal skin color, schooling level, and age, the child attending day care and having siblings, breastfeeding status, and obesity. The outcome was the sum of ultra-processed foods regularly consumed by a child. A multivariate Poisson regression analysis was used to calculate the association between the regular consumption of ultra-processed foods and exposure variables. RESULTS The mean number of ultra-processed foods consumed was 4.8 (SD = 2.3). The regular consumption of ultra-processed foods was positively associated with black skin color and having siblings, and negatively associated with household income and maternal schooling level and age. CONCLUSION The mean regular consumption of ultra-processed foods by children from the 2015 Pelotas Birth Cohort is high, which can negatively affect the children's diet. The risk of consuming this kind of food was higher among children from families of lower socioeconomic status, whose mothers present lower education level, black skin color, and younger age.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Avaliar o consumo habitual de alimentos ultraprocessados aos 24 meses de idade por crianças pertencentes à Coorte de Nascimentos de Pelotas de 2015 e os principais fatores demográficos, socioeconômicos e comportamentais relacionados ao consumo desses produtos. MÉTODOS Coorte de base populacional na cidade de Pelotas-RS, onde foram avaliadas 4.275 crianças ao nascimento, das quais 95,4% foram acompanhadas até os 24 meses. O consumo alimentar foi avaliado por meio de um questionário de consumo habitual de alimentos ultraprocessados, coletando informações sobre sexo, renda familiar, cor da pele, escolaridade e idade da mãe, frequentar creche, ter irmãos, status de amamentação e obesidade. O desfecho foi a somatória de alimentos ultraprocessados consumidos habitualmente pela criança. Análise multivariada por regressão de Poisson foi utilizada para estimar a associação entre consumo habitual de alimentos ultraprocessados e as variáveis de exposição. RESULTADOS O número médio de alimentos ultraprocessados consumidos habitualmente foi de 4,8 (DP = 2,3). O consumo habitual de alimentos ultraprocessados foi associado positivamente à cor da pele preta e ter irmãos e negativamente associado com renda familiar, escolaridade e idade materna. CONCLUSÕES A média de consumo habitual de alimentos ultraprocessados por crianças pertencentes à Coorte de Nascimentos de 2015 da cidade de Pelotas é elevada, o que pode causar um efeito negativo na dieta das crianças. O risco de consumo desses alimentos foi maior entre crianças de famílias de menor posição socioeconômica, filhas de mães de baixa escolaridade, de cor da pele preta, mais jovens e de baixa renda.

Medication use in children from the 2015 Pelotas (Brazil) birth cohort aged between three months and four years / Uso de medicação em crianças da coorte de nascimentos de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, de 2015 com três meses a quatro anos de idade / Uso de medicación en niños, desde los tres meses hasta los cuatro años de edad, en una cohorte de nacimiento de 2015 en Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

Medication use is an important part of the health process and prevalence of its use among infants can reach up to 65% in their first months of life. The excessive use of medication could lead to an increase in their potential harm, surpassing their benefits. Considering this, this study aimed to describe medication use in children aged 3, 12, 24, and 48 months. Standardized questionnaires were applied to assess patterns and covariables of medication use. Medication use was investigated as an outcome and defined as the receipt of any medication within 15 days before the interview. Prevalence of medication use and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were described using chi-squared tests. Prescription source and frequency of use were also reported, along with the most frequent medication in each follow-up. Medication use prevalence was 67.2% (95%CI: 65.8; 68.6), 68.2% (95%CI: 66.8; 69.6), 52.4% (95%CI: 50.9; 54.0), 47.2% (95%CI: 45.7; 48.8), at 3, 12, 24, and 48 months, respectively. We observed a decrease in the proportion of medically prescribed medications and an increase in self-medication over the years. Drugs for gastrointestinal disorders (A03), vitamins (A11), analgesics (N02), anti-inflammatories (M01), and nasal formulations (R01) were the most frequently used medications. We found that children under four years of age comprised over 50% of the total use of medications and self-medication. These results highlight the need to warn caregivers on the importance of proper professional examination and prescription before they administer medications to children.

O uso de medicação é parte importante do processo de saúde, e a prevalência de uso entre lactentes pode chegar a 65% nos primeiros meses de vida. O uso excessivo de medicação pode levar a um aumento dos danos potenciais em relação aos benefícios. Levando isso em conta, o estudo atual buscou descrever o uso de medicação em crianças aos 3, 12, 24 e 48 meses. Foram aplicados questionários padronizados para avaliar os padrões de uso de medicação e covariáveis. O uso de medicação foi investigado enquanto desfecho, e definido como história de ter recebido qualquer medicação nos 15 dias anteriores à entrevista. A prevalência do uso de medicação e os intervalos de 95% de confiança (IC95%) foram descritos através do teste de qui-quadrado. Também foram relatadas a fonte da prescrição e a frequência de uso, junto com a medicação mais frequente em cada consulta. A prevalência do uso de medicação foi de 67,2% (IC95%: 65,8; 68,6), 68,2% (IC95%: 66,8; 69,6), 52,4% (IC95%: 50,9; 54,0) e 47,2% (IC95%: 45,7; 48,8), aos 3, 12, 24 e 48 meses, respectivamente. Ao longo dos anos, foram observados uma diminuição na proporção de medicamentos com prescrição médica e um aumento na automedicação (indicação pelos pais ou responsáveis). Os medicamentos mais frequentes eram para transtornos gastrointestinais (A03), vitaminas (A11), analgésicos (N02), anti-inflamatórios (M01) e formulações nasais (R01). Encontramos mais de 50% de uso total e de automedicação (indicação pelos pais/responsáveis) em crianças abaixo de 4 anos de idade. Os resultados destacam a necessidade de alertar os cuidadores sobre a importância do exame profissional e prescrição adequados antes da administração de medicamentos a crianças.

El consumo de medicamentos es una parte importante del proceso de salud y la prevalencia de su uso entre bebés puede llegar a un 65% durante los primeros meses de vida. El excesivo consumo de medicamentos podría conducir a un incremento en sus perjuicios potenciales frente a sus beneficios. Teniendo esto en cuenta, el objetivo de este estudio fue describir el uso de la medicación en niños de 3, 12, 24, y 48 meses. Se aplicaron cuestionarios estandarizados para evaluar los patrones de uso de la medicación y sus covariables. Se investigó el uso de la medicación como un resultado y se definió como haber recibido alguna medicación en los últimos 15 días antes de la entrevista. Se describieron la prevalencia del IC95%uso de la medicación y los intervalos de 95% de confianza (IC95%), usando tests chi-cuadrado. También se informó de la fuente de prescripción y frecuencia del consumo, junto a la medicación más frecuente en cada seguimiento. La prevalencia en el uso de la medicación fue de un 67,2% (IC95%: 65,8; 68,6), 68,2% (IC95%: 66,8; 69,6), 52,4% (IC95%: 50,9; 54,0), 47,2% (IC95%: 45,7; 48,8), a los 3, 12, 24, y 48 meses, respectivamente. Se observó una disminución en la proporción de medicamentos recetados médicamente y un incremento en la automedicación a lo largo de los años. Los medicamentos más frecuentemente usados fueron los destinados para desórdenes gastrointestinales (A03), vitaminas (A11), analgésicos (N02), antiinflamatorios (M01), y preparados nasales (R01). Descubrimos que más de un 50% del total y automedicación en el consumo de medicinas en niños menores de 4 años. Estos resultados subrayan la necesidad de avisar a los cuidadores sobre la importancia de un examen profesional apropiado y la receta antes de la administración del medicamento a niños.

NCD behavioral risk factors and mortality among older adults in Brazil.

BACKGROUNDS & AIMS: Literature shows that the most studied concurrent risk factors for mortality in elderly individuals are smoking, inadequate diet, alcohol consumption and physical inactivity. The combination of such habits can increase from 3 to 11 times the chance of death. To measure the association between concurrence of behavioral risk factors (BRF) for non-communicable diseases (NCD's) and mortality up to three years among the elderly. METHODS: Cohort study started in 2014 named "COMO VAI?" with community-dwelling aged ≥60 years in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. We investigated the deaths from all causes occurred until April 2017. The exposure was defined by the presence of physical inactivity, low-quality diet, alcohol consumption and smoking that composed a score ranging from 0 (none) to 4 (all). Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to evaluate the association between BRF concurrence and mortality. RESULTS: In 2014, 1451 elderly people were interviewed, 145 deaths were identified (10%) by April 2017. Higher risk of death was observed for the combinations of physical inactivity + smoking and low-quality diet + physical inactivity. The simultaneous presence of three or more BRF was associated with a nearly six-fold higher risk of death. CONCLUSIONS: Higher mortality during a 3-year period was observed among those with at least three BRF for NCD's.

Low back pain prevalence and associated factors in nurses from Brazilian primary health units.

BACKGROUND: Primary health unit (PHU) nursing work is different when compared to hospital environment. Although low back pain (LBP) literature presents studies conducted in hospital nursing personnel, there is a lack of studies in PHU nurses. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to measure the prevalence of LBP in PHU nursing personnel in the city of Pelotas, Brazil. METHODS: Sociodemographic (age, gender, number of children, skin color, income and marital status), occupational (PHU type, formal education, professional experience, weekly workload, extra work activity, workload perception), nutritional (BMI), health (self-perceived health, smoking, sleep quality and minor psychiatric disorders, PHU physical structure perception) and behavioral (leisure-time physical activity) characteristics were assessed. LBP was defined as pain or discomfort between the last rib and gluteal fold. Poisson regression was used to evaluate the relationship among LBP and covariates. RESULTS: LBP prevalence was 65.2%. Chronic (12 weeks) and acute (7 days) LBP prevalence were 22.4%and 53.4%, respectively. LBP was associated with obesity (PR 1.39 95%CI 1.01-1.92) and poor self-perceived health (PR 2.77 95%CI 1.32-5.80). CONCLUSIONS: Prevalence of LBP in PHU nursing personnel is high and similar to hospital nurses. Individual characteristics such as body mass and health perception were associated with LBP.

Can your partner influence your physical activity? The role of social support provided by partners / O parceiro influencia sua atividade física? O papel do apoio social fornecido pelo cônjuge

The study aims to evaluate the association between social support from partners (SSP) and physical activity (PA) levels. A cross-sectional study conducted in 26 gyms (n = 390) from Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Methods: PA was measured using questions about frequency/duration of PA performed at the gym and elsewhere and analyzed as numerical and dichotomized (median). SSP was measured using a validated questionnaire and analyzed in quartiles. Respectively, Linear and Poisson regression were used to assess the associations. SSP was associated with PA in both analyses. Persons belonging to the highest SSP quartile performed 66.1 (95%CI: 11.1 - 121.0) more minutes of PA and had 1.37 (95%CI:1.01 ­ 1.85) higher probability to perform more than 300 min/week of PA than those from the lowest SSP quartile. SSP was associated with PA, researchers must consider the potential of SSP when targeting PA behavioral changes

O estudo objetiva avaliar a associação entre apoio social do cônjuge (ASC) e o níveis de atividade física (AF). Estudo transversal realizado em 26 academias (n = 390) de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. A AF foi medida usando perguntas sobre frequência e duração de AF realizadas na academia e em outros locais, a mesma foi analisada como desfecho numérico e dicotomizado (mediana). O ASC foi medido utilizando um questionário validado e analisado em quartis. Respectivamente, regressões Linear e de Poisson foram utilizadas para avaliar as associações entre os desfechos e as exposições. Pessoas pertencentes ao quartil mais alto de ASC realizaram 66,1 (IC95%: 11,1 - 121,0) mais minutos de AF e tiveram 1,37 (IC95%: 1,01 - 1,85) maior probabilidade de realizar mais de 300 min/semana AF do que os do quartil de ASC mais baixo. O ASC está diretamente associado com maiores níveis de AF, pesquisadores devem considerar o potencial do ASC ao direcionar as mudanças comportamentais do AF

RPS Brazilian Birth Cohorts Consortium (Ribeirão Preto, Pelotas and São Luís): history, objectives and methods / Consórcio RPS (Ribeirão Preto, Pelotas e São Luís) de coortes de nascimento brasileiras: história, objetivos e métodos / Consorcio RPS (Ribeirão Preto, Pelotas y São Luís) cohortes brasileñas de nacimiento: historia, objetivos y métodos

Abstract: This paper describes the history, objectives and methods used by the nine Brazilian cohorts of the RPS Brazilian Birth Cohorts Consortium (Ribeirão Preto, Pelotas and São Luís) Common thematic axes are identified and the objectives, baseline periods, follow-up stages and representativity of the population studied are presented. The Consortium includes three birth cohorts from Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo State (1978/1979, 1994 and 2010), four from Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul State (1982, 1993, 2004 and 2015), and two from São Luís, Maranhão State (1997 and 2010). The cohorts cover three regions of Brazil, from three distinct states, with marked socioeconomic, cultural and infrastructure differences. The cohorts were started at birth, except for the most recent one in each municipality, where mothers were recruited during pregnancy. The instruments for data collection have been refined in order to approach different exposures during the early phases of life and their long-term influence on the health-disease process. The investigators of the nine cohorts carried out perinatal studies and later studied human capital, mental health, nutrition and precursor signs of noncommunicable diseases. A total of 17,636 liveborns were recruited in Ribeirão Preto, 19,669 in Pelotas, and 7,659 in São Luís. In the studies starting during pregnancy, 1,400 pregnant women were interviewed in Ribeirão Preto, 3,199 in Pelotas, and 1,447 in São Luís. Different strategies were employed to reduce losses to follow-up. This research network allows the analysis of the incidence of diseases and the establishment of possible causal relations that might explain the health outcomes of these populations in order to contribute to the development of governmental actions and health policies more consistent with reality.

Resumo: O artigo descreve a história, objetivos e métodos utilizados pelas nove coortes do Consórcio RPS de Coortes de Nascimento. São identificados eixos temáticos comuns, com apresentação dos objetivos, anos de linha de base, fases de seguimento e representatividade das populações de estudo. O Consórcio inclui três coortes de nascimento de Ribeirão Preto, Estado de São Paulo (1978/1979, 1994 e 2010), quatro de Pelotas, Estado do Rio Grande do Sul (1982, 1993, 2004 e 2015) e duas de São Luís, Estado do Maranhão (1997 e 2010). As coortes provêm de três regiões do Brasil, de três estados diferentes, com importantes diferenças socioeconômicas, culturais e de infraestrutura. As coortes foram iniciadas ao nascer dos participantes, exceto a mais recente em cada município, onde as mães foram recrutadas durante a gestação. Os instrumentos para a coleta de dados foram refinados para aproximar diferentes exposições na primeira infância e a influência, a longo prazo, no processo saúde-doença. Os investigadores das nove coortes realizaram estudos perinatais e depois examinaram o capital humano, saúde mental, nutrição e sinais percursores de doenças crônicas. Um total de 17.636 nascidos vivos foram recrutados em Ribeirão Preto, 19.669 em Pelotas e 7.659 em São Luís. Nas coortes que foram iniciadas durante a gestação, foram entrevistadas 1.400 gestantes em Ribeirão Preto, 3.199 em Pelotas e 1.447 em São Luís. Foram utilizadas diferentes estratégias para reduzir as perdas de seguimento. A rede de pesquisa do Consórcio permite analisar a incidência de doenças e identificar possíveis relações causais que podem explicar os desfechos de saúde nessas populações e contribuir para o desenvolvimento de medidas públicas e políticas de saúde que estejam mais de acordo com as respectivas realidades.

Resumen: El trabajo describe la historia, objetivos y métodos usados por nueve cohortes brasileñas del RPS Consorcio de Cohortes de Nacimiento. Se identificaron los ejes temáticos comunes y los objetivos, así como los periodos de referencia, la presentación del estadio de seguimiento y representatividad de la población estudiada. El consorcio incluye tres cohortes de nacimiento de Ribeirão Preto, Estado de São Paulo (1978/1979, 1994 y 2010), cuatro de Pelotas, Estado del Rio Grande do Sul (1982, 1993, 2004 y 2015), y dos de São Luís, Estado del Maranhão (1997 y 2010). Las cohortes cubren tres regiones de Brasil, de tres estados distintos, con marcadas diferencias socioeconómicas, culturales y de infraestructura. Las cohortes comenzaron con el nacimiento, excepto para la más reciente en cada municipio, donde las madres fueron reclutadas durante la gestación. Los instrumentos para la recogida de datos han sido depurados, con el fin de realizar una aproximación a diferentes exposiciones durante las fases tempranas de la vida y su influencia a largo plazo en el proceso de salud-enfermedad. Se incluyeron a los investigadores de las nueve cohortes, donde se llevaron a cabo estudios perinatales, así como los recursos humanos analizados posteriormente, al igual que la salud mental, nutrición y signos precursores de enfermedades no comunicables. Un total de 17.636 nacidos vivos fueron reclutados en Ribeirão Preto, 19.669 en Pelotas, y 7.659 en São Luís. En los estudios que comenzaron durante el embarazo, 1.400 mujeres embarazadas fueron entrevistadas en Ribeirão Preto, 3.199 en Pelotas, y 1.447 en São Luís. Se usaron diferentes estrategias para reducir pérdidas, con el fin de realizar el seguimiento. Esta red de investigación permite el análisis de la incidencia de enfermedades y el establecimiento de posibles relaciones causales que podrían explicar los resultados de salud de estas poblaciones, con el fin de contribuir al desarrollo de acciones gubernamentales y políticas de salud más consistentes con la realidad.

Atividade Física e Câncer Colorretal: Estudo de Caso-Controle no Município de Pelotas / Physical Activity and Colorretal Cancer: Case-Control Study in the City of Pelotas / Actividad Física y Cáncer de Colorretal: Estudio de Caso-Control en la Ciudad de Pelotas

RESUMOIntrodução: Neoplasias são um dos principais problemas de saúde prevalentes. O câncer colorretal (CCR) apresenta alta incidência no Brasil, o tratamento da doença consiste em auxiliar o sistema imunológico a combater as células malignas, e a prática de exercícios pode auxiliar em sua prevenção. Na busca de fatores de risco para CCR, pesquisas obtiveram dados consistentes quanto a: alimentação inapropriada, inatividade física, obesidade, consumo de álcool e tabaco, mas ainda não foi possível encontrar dados sobre o histórico de atividade física (AF) dos pacientes diagnosticados com CCR. Objetivo: Avaliar se a prática de AF durante toda a vida pode influenciar no desenvolvimento da doença. Método: Estudo caso-controle. Os casos foram obtidos nos centros oncológicos de Pelotas, Brasil. Dois controles de cada caso foram detectados no mesmo centro de saúde. Ambos os grupos foram pareados por idade (±5 anos). Ao todo, participaram do estudo 82 casos e 165 controles. Resultados: A partir das análises brutas e ajustadas para os fatores de confusão, a AF em seus quatro domínios e a AF total, realizadas durante toda a vida, não estiveram associadas ao desfecho. Conclusão: Os resultados analisados neste estudo foram contrários, em sua maior parte, ao encontrado na literatura; as possíveis explicações foram o perfil de AF na população estudada, as características da AF ocupacional e o tamanho amostral

Introduction: Neoplasms are one of the main prevalent health problems. Colorectal cancer (CRC) has a high incidence in Brazil, the treatment of the disease consists in helping the immune system to fight the malignant cells, and the practice of exercises can help its prevention. Studies addressing the risk factors for CRC found consistent data about inadequate diet, physical inactivity, obesity, alcohol, and tobacco use, but it was not possible to find data on the history of physical activity (PA) of patients diagnosed with CRC in Brazil. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether physical activity (PA) during the lifespan can influence the likelihood of developing the disease. Method: A case-control study was carried out. Cases were obtained from oncologic health centers in Pelotas, Brazil. Two controls were found for each case in the same health center. Both groups were age-matched (±5 years), 82 cases and 165 controls participated in the study. Results: Based in the raw and adjusted analyzes for the confounding factors, PA in its four domains and total PA performed throughout life were not associated with the outcome. Conclusion: The results analyzed in this study were, mostly, contrary to those found in the literature, with possible explanations being the profile of PA of the population studied, the characteristics of occupational physical activity and the sample size

Introducción: Neoplasias son uno de los principales problemas de salud prevalentes. Cáncer colorrectal (CCR) tiene una alta incidencia en Brasil, el tratamiento consiste en ayudar al sistema inmunológico en la defensa de las células malignas y la práctica de ejercicios puede ayudar en su prevención. Búsqueda de factores de riesgo para CCR, investigación ha obtenido datos consistentes sobre dieta inadecuada, inactividad física, obesidad, consumo de alcohol y tabaco, pero aún no ha sido posible encontrar datos brasileños sobre la historia de actividad física (AF) de los pacientes diagnosticado con CCR. Objetivo: El estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar si la práctica de AF a lo largo de la vida puede influir en la probabilidad de desarrollar la enfermedad. Método: Realizó un estudio de casos y controles. Los casos fueron reclutados en centros de oncología en Pelotas, Brasil. Cada caso tuvo dos controles, que se encuentran en el mismo centro de salud. Ambos grupos fueron emparejados por edad (±-5 años), 82 casos y 165 controles participaron en el estudio. Resultados: Análisis crudos y ajustados para los factores de confusión, AF en sus cuatro dominios y AF total realizada durante toda la vida no se asociaron con el resultado. Conclusión: Resultados analizados en este estudio fueron contrarios, en su mayor parte, a los encontrados en la literatura, siendo posibles explicaciones el perfil de actividad física en la población estudiada, las características de la AF ocupacional y el tamaño de la muestra

Concordância na velocidade da marcha de mulheres diabéticas tipo 2 em diferentes testes de caminhada / Agreement in the gait speed of type 2 diabetic women from different walking tests

O objetivo desse estudo foi verificar a concordância na velocidade da marcha (VM) a partir dos testes de caminhada de seis minutos (6MWT) e de quatro metros (4MWT) em mulheres diabéticas tipo 2 (DM2). Os testes foram realizados antes e após intervenção de 12 semanas com exercícios físicos. O 4MWT foi realizado em espaço de quatro metros, sendo o resultado do teste medido como o tempo gasto (segundos) no percurso. O 6MWT foi realizado em modelo de ir e vir em uma distância de 15 metros e o resultado foi a distância total (metros) percorrida. Os resultados foram padronizados para velocidade de deslocamento (m/s). Para avaliar a concordância (6MWTpré x 4MWTpré) e (6MWTpósx 4MWTpós), utilizou-se o teste de Bland-Altman (B-A) e o coeficiente de concordância de correlação de Lin. O nível de significância aceito para o estudo foi α 5%. Foram medidas 39 mulheres, com idade média de 58,79 ± 10,03 anos e diagnóstico de DM2 a 8,64 ± 8,53 anos. Verificou-se, pelo teste de B-A, diferenças na VM dos testes de -0,001 ± 0,19 m/s (IC95%: -0,37 a 0,37 m/s) no início e 0,02 ± 0,21 m/s (IC95%: -0,39 a 0,42 m/s) ao final e concordância de 0,60 (IC95%: 0,41 a 0,79; p < 0,001) e 0,52 (IC95%: 0,31 a 0,73; p < 0,001) pré e pós, respectivamente, pelo coeficiente de concordância de correlação Lin. Através dos dados obtidos, sugere-se que os dois testes podem ser utilizados para avaliar a VM das mulheres DM2, porém o 6MWT apresentou maior reprodutibilidade para detectar mudanças na VM ao longo do tempo

This study aimed to test the agreement in the gait speed (GS) between the 6-minute walk test and the 4-me-ter gait speed (6MWT - 4MWT) in type 2 diabetic women (T2DM). The tests were performed before and after a 12-week physical exercise intervention. The 4MWT was performed in a space of four meters, with results based on the time spent (seconds) to complete a 4-meter distance. The 6MWT was carried out similar to a yo-yo test in 15 meters and the result was operationalized by the total distance (meters) covered. The results of the tests were standardized as speed (m/s). To evaluate agreements (6MWTbefore x 4MWTbefore) and (6MWTafter x 4MWTafter), Bland-Altman (B-A), and Lin's agreements were used. The level of significance was set at 5%. A total of 39 women were evaluated, mean age 58.79 ± 10.03 years, diagnosis of diabetes at 8.64 ± 8.53 years.The B-A test showed a mean difference in GS of -0.001 ± 0.19 m/s (95%CI: -0.37 to 0.37 m/s) before and 0.02 ± 0.21 m/s (95%CI: -0.39 to 0.42 m/s) after, and Lin's agreements of 0.60 (95%CI: 0.41 to 0.79; p < 0.001) and 0.52 (95%CI: 0.31 to 0.73; p < 0.001) before and after, respectively. Based on our data it is suggested that the two tests can be used to evaluate the GS of T2DM women, but the 6MWT was more reproductible to detect changes in GS over time

Barriers to physical activity in women with and without breast cancer / Barreiras para a prática de atividade física em mulheres com e sem diagnóstico de câncer de mama

INTRODUCTION: Regular physical activity (PA) is important for the entire population, equally for healthy people and survivors of breast cancer. Despite the benefits of PA, there are women who do not attain the recommendation from the World Health Organization (WHO). OBJECTIVE: To describe and compare the barriers to PA in women with and without breast cancer. METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive study was performed. The consisted of 230 women with primary breast cancer diagnosed up to one year and 231 women without breast cancer. Both groups were matched by age (±5 years). The participants answered a questionnaire with questions about barriers to PA and sociodemographic, anthropometric and behavioral characteristics. RESULTS: Women with breast cancer perceived more barriers to PA than those without diagnosis (59.4% versus 40.7%). The barriers most cited by women diagnosed with breast cancer were "feeling discomfort or pain" (59.6%) and "feeling tired" (56.1%). The barriers most mentioned by women without diagnosis were "lack of money" (21.6%) and "lack of company" (19.1%). CONCLUSION: Women with breast cancer report more barriers than women without the disease. Therefore, it is suggested that they have a lower level of PA in leisure time. The perceived barriers to PA among women with and without breast cancer are similar, but they differ in the physical barriers.

INTRODUÇÃO: A atividade física (AF) regular é importante para toda a população, tanto os indivíduos saudáveis quanto para sobreviventes do câncer de mama, mas apesar dos benefícios, há mulheres que não atendem os níveis de AF necessários preconizados pela Organização Mundial da Saúde. OBJETIVO: Descrever e comparar as barreiras para a prática de AF em mulheres com e sem diagnóstico de câncer de mama. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo transversal. A amostra foi obtida de um estudo de caso-controle sobre AF e câncer de mama, participaram do estudo 230 mulheres com câncer de mama primário diagnosticadas até um ano e 231 mulheres sem câncer de mama e ambos os grupos foram pareados por idade (±5 anos). As mulheres responderam a um questionário contendo perguntas sobre barreiras à AF e características sociodemográficas, antropométricas e comportamentais. RESULTADOS: Mulheres com câncer de mama perceberam mais barreiras para a prática de AF do que àquelas sem diagnóstico (59,4% versus 40,7%). As barreiras mais citadas pelas mulheres com diagnóstico de câncer de mama foram "sentir desconforto ou dor" (59,6%) e "sentir cansaço" (56,1%) e as mais citadas pelas mulheres sem diagnóstico foram "falta de dinheiro" (21,6%) e "falta de companhia" (19,1%). CONCLUSÃO: Mulheres com câncer de mama reportaram mais barreiras do que as mulheres sem diagnóstico, e por essa razão, apresentaram menores níveis de AF no lazer. As barreiras para a prática de AF entre mulheres com e sem diagnóstico de câncer de mama são similares, mas diferem nas barreiras físicas.

Maternal pregnancy smoking in three Brazilian cities: trends and differences according to education, income, and age.

OBJECTIVES: To estimate and assess pregnancy smoking trends since 1978, according to sociodemographic characteristics, in three Brazilian sites. METHODS: We used cross-sectional data from the perinatal studies of nine birth cohorts, located in the southeast (Ribeirão Preto-1978/1979, 1994, and 2010), south (Pelotas-1982, 1993, 2004, and 2015), and northeast (São Luís-1997/1998 and 2010) regions of Brazil. We estimated the prevalence of pregnancy smoking at each time point according to age, education, and family income, in each cohort, and evaluated smoking trends. RESULTS: We analyzed data of 17,275 women in Ribeirão Preto, 19,819 in Pelotas, and 7753 in São Luís. Smoking decreased by 59% in Ribeirão Preto (p < 0.001), 54% in Pelotas (p < 0.001), and 32% in São Luís (p < 0.001). However, among those with 0-4 years of education, smoking did not change in Ribeirão Preto (p-trend = 0.501) nor São Luís (p = 0.556) and increased in Pelotas (p-trend = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS: Pregnancy smoking has been declining during the last decades. However, among less-educated women, pregnancy smoking did not change in two sites and increased in one of them.

Strength and multimorbidity among community-dwelling elderly from southern Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: The number of chronic diseases is associated with the reduction in muscle mass and strength in older people (≥60 y of age). The purpose of this study was to asses the association between multimorbidities and handgrip strength in older community-dwelling individuals from a city in southern Brazil, identifying potential differences according to sex and loss of muscle mass. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional population-based study among older individuals living in the urban area of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Grip strength was assessed with digital dynamometers according to the criteria of the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP) to define dynapenia. Multimorbidity was defined by self-report as the presence of at least 5 diseases diagnosed by a physician. Covariates of the study were age, sex, socioeconomic status, schooling, marital status, nutritional status, alcohol consumption, and smoking habits. Statistical analyses were stratified according to the presence of myopenia (low muscle mass). RESULTS: We received completed information from 1336 individuals ≥60 y of age. Multimorbidity was 50% and 16% more prevalent, respectively, among men and women classified in the lower quartile of manual grip strength (prevalence ratio [PR], 1.50; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.15-1.95 for men and PR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.03-1.32 for women) compared with those from the upper quartile. Among men without myopenia, the presence of dynapenia increased the odds of having multimorbidity (PR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.18-1.71). Among those with myopenia, there was a 10% increase in the prevalence of multimorbidity only for women with dynapenia (PR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.00-1.21). CONCLUSION: Results from the present study indicated an association between manual grip strength and multimorbidity among this population, and the effect measures were greater in men. Manual grip strength proved to be a good marker of health in this population, especially in those who did not present with myopenia.

Objectively measured physical activity in one-year-old children from a Brazilian cohort: levels, patterns and determinants.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study is to describe objectively measured physical activity (PA) and its correlates in one-year-old children. METHODS: The current study includes participants from the 2015 Pelotas (Brazil) birth cohort. At age one, PA was assessed in a 24-h protocol during 4 days with a wrist-attached accelerometer (ActiGraph, wGT3X-BT), from which two complete days of data were analyzed, with 5-s epochs. RESULTS: A total of 2974 individuals provided valid accelerometry data. Infants able to walk independently spent on average 19 h per day below 50 mg of acceleration (including sleep time), and those who could not walk spent on average 21 h in this intensity category. Girls spent approximately 10 min more than boys below 50 mg daily in both walking status categories, and less activity than boys on higher intensity categories. Boys and infants whose mothers were more physically active during pregnancy presented more acceleration, regardless of walking status. Among infants who could walk by themselves, those with mothers with one to eight schooling years; adequate length-for-age (z-score); not attending daycare; and more physically active fathers also showed higher levels of acceleration. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings demonstrate higher levels of PA among boys and those children with higher maternal PA during pregnancy, regardless of walking status. Also, among infants able to independently walk, 1-8 years of maternal schooling, adequate length-for-age (z-score), no daycare attendance and higher paternal PA are positive correlates of objectively measured PA early in life.

Teaching of health-related physical activity in medical schools: the Brazilian scenario / Ensino de atividade física relacionada à saúde nos cursos de medicina: O cenário brasileiro

Physical activity engagement is a key strategy to improve population health and quality of life. How-ever, studies show that physical activity counseling by physicians is low, and one of the main barriers reported is lack of specific knowledge. The aim of this study is to describe the existence of health-related physical activity content in the curricula of Brazilian Medicine undergraduate courses. A census-type descriptive study was carried out. Online documentation available in institutional websites of all Brazilian Medicine courses curricula were assessed and, when not available, faculty members were contacted. In 2015 we identified 233 medicine courses in Brazil, using data from the Brazilian Ministry of Education. We assessed the documentation in detail of 158 courses (67.8%). We ob-served that only 12% of curricula presented health-related physical activity and/or physical exercise contents. This proportion was higher in public Medical schools compared to private ones (21.5% vs. 5.4%; p = 0.002). Teaching of health-related physical activity in Brazilian Medicine courses is scarce. We highlight the need for adjustment of curricula considering the well-established benefits of physical activity for public health.

A prática de atividade física é uma estratégia fundamental para melhorar a saúde e a qualidade de vida populacional. No entanto, estudos mostram que o aconselhamento de atividade física por parte dos médicos é baixo e uma das principais barreiras relatadas é a falta de conhecimento específico. O objetivo deste estudo é descrever a existência de conteúdo de atividade física relacionada à saúde nos currículos dos cursos de graduação em Medicina no Brasil. Foi realizado um estudo descritivo do tipo censo, avaliando a documentação on-line disponível em sites institucionais de todos os currículos dos cursos de Medicina do país e quando esta documentação não estava disponível, foi feito contato com os coordenadores. Em 2015 foram identificados 233 cursos de medicina no Brasil, utilizando dados do Ministério da Educação do Brasil. Em 158 cursos (67,8%) foi possível avaliar a documentação em detalhes. Observamos que apenas 12% dos currículos apre-sentavam em seus currículos/disciplinas conteúdo sobre atividade física e/ou exercício físico relacionado à saúde. Essa proporção foi maior nas instituições públicas em comparação às escolas particulares de Medicina (21,5% vs. 5,4%; p = 0,002). O ensino de atividade física relacionada à saúde nos cursos de Medicina no Brasil é escasso. Destacamos a necessidade de ajuste curricular considerando os benefícios conhecidos da atividade física para a saúde pública.