Prevalence of current suicidal thoughts and lifetime suicide attempts in individuals with cancer and other chronic diseases in Germany: Evidence for differential associations from a representative community cohort.

BACKGROUND: Research indicates an elevated risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs) among individuals with cancer, but community-based studies on the prevalence of STBs in comparison to the general population and other chronic diseases are lacking. METHODS: Data was drawn from the representative population-based, prospective Gutenberg Health Study (GHS). Participants (N = 12,382; age: M = 59.5, SD = 10.8; 48.9 % women) completed highly standardized medical assessments and validated questionnaires such as the PHQ-9. In addition to prevalence estimates (stratified by STBs and gender), logistic regression models were calculated (controlling for confounders). RESULTS: The sample included 1910 individuals with cancer, 8.2 % of whom reported current suicidal thoughts and 2.0 % reported lifetime suicide attempts. There was neither a significant association between a cancer diagnosis and suicidal thoughts (p = .077) nor suicide attempts (p = .17) in models adjusting for age, gender, and income. Other chronic diseases were linked to suicidal thoughts and attempts only in men. LIMITATIONS: Although the investigation of the two kinds of STB are a strength of the study, the items' different time frames complicate comparisons. In addition, the cross-sectional design limits the ability to understand observed relationships and to identify periods of risk. CONCLUSION: This study expands the evidence base regarding the vulnerability to STBs in individuals with cancer, including long-term survivors. It highlights their heterogeneity, differential risk factors underlying suicidal thoughts and attempts, and the relevance of other (contextual) factors shaping an individual's susceptibility to suicidal crises.

To what extent are psychological variables considered in the study of risk and protective factors for suicidal thoughts and behaviours in individuals with cancer? A systematic review of 70 years of research.

Psychological variables substantially shape the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviours (STBs). However, it is unclear to what extent they are considered in individuals with cancer. We synthesized the quantitative research landscape concerning psychological risk/protective factors of STBs in the (psycho-) oncological context. This pre-registered review (PROSPERO-ID CRD42022331484) systematically searched the databases PubMed/Medline, CINAHL, PsycInfo, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science (as well as the grey literature and preprints). Risk of bias (RoB) was estimated using the ROBINS-I tool. Of 11,159 retrieved records, 319 studies were eligible for inclusion. Of those, 163 (51.1%) had investigated psychological factors (affective: n = 155; social: n = 65; cognitive: n = 63; personality/individual differences: n = 37; life events: n = 6), in a combined 3,561,741 participants. The most common STBs were suicidal ideation (n = 107) or death wishes (n = 20) rather than behaviour (suicide deaths: n = 26; attempts: n = 14). Most studies had a serious RoB. Thus, a large body of research investigated STBs in cancer patients/survivors, but it rarely aligned with the theoretical or clinical developments in suicide research. We propose a conceptual model of STBs in cancer delineating moderation and mediation effects to advance the integration of the fields, and to inform future research and practice.

Increasing uptake of FIT colorectal screening: protocol for the TEMPO randomised controlled trial testing a suggested deadline and a planning tool.

INTRODUCTION: Screening can reduce deaths from colorectal cancer (CRC). Despite high levels of public enthusiasm, participation rates in population CRC screening programmes internationally remain persistently below target levels. Simple behavioural interventions such as completion goals and planning tools may support participation among those inclined to be screened but who fail to act on their intentions. This study aims to evaluate the impact of: (a) a suggested deadline for return of the test; (b) a planning tool and (c) the combination of a deadline and planning tool on return of faecal immunochemical tests (FITs) for CRC screening. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: A randomised controlled trial of 40 000 adults invited to participate in the Scottish Bowel Screening Programme will assess the individual and combined impact of the interventions. Trial delivery will be integrated into the existing CRC screening process. The Scottish Bowel Screening Programme mails FITs to people aged 50-74 with brief instructions for completion and return. Participants will be randomised to one of eight groups: (1) no intervention; (2) suggested deadline (1 week); (3) suggested deadline (2 weeks); (4) suggested deadline (4 weeks); (5) planning tool; (6) planning tool plus suggested deadline (1 week); (7) planning tool plus suggested deadline (2 weeks); (8) planning tool plus suggested deadline (4 weeks). The primary outcome is return of the correctly completed FIT at 3 months. To understand the cognitive and behavioural mechanisms and to explore the acceptability of both interventions, we will survey (n=2000) and interview (n=40) a subgroup of trial participants. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: The study has been approved by the National Health Service South Central-Hampshire B Research Ethics Committee (ref. 19/SC/0369). The findings will be disseminated through conference presentations and publication in peer-reviewed journals. Participants can request a summary of the results. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: clinicaltrials.govNCT05408169.

Rehabilitation needs of people with brain tumours in Ireland: Protocol for a prospective, mixed methods action research study ("Brain-RESTORE").

Background: Approximately 480 people annually in Ireland are diagnosed with a primary brain tumour. Brain tumours are a heterogeneous group of conditions, varying in histopathology, location, and progression. A consistent feature is neurological impairment, which can lead to profound effects on physical and cognitive function. There is evidence that people with brain tumours can benefit from rehabilitation, but pathways are poorly described, and no best practice is defined. This leads to significant unmet need. The aim of this study is to understand the rehabilitation needs of people diagnosed with a brain tumour in Ireland, and gain insight to inform policy and practice. Methods: A prospective, mixed methods study with embedded action research will be conducted. Patients (n=122) with a new diagnosis of primary brain tumour, and optionally, a nominated carer or family member, will be recruited through a national neuro-oncology service. Rehabilitation need (Mayo-Portland Adaptability Inventory), quality of life (European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Brain Cancer Module, EuroQol-5D-5L), healthcare utilisation and, optionally, carer needs (Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool) will be assessed at four, eight and 12 months post diagnosis. An embedded qualitative study will invite 30 patients and carers to a semi-structured interview to explore their lived experience of rehabilitation needs and services following brain tumour diagnosis. Finally, using an Action Research approach, healthcare professionals involved in caring for people with brain tumours will be invited to participate in co-operative inquiry groups, to reflect on emerging aggregate findings and identify actions that could be undertaken while the study is underway. Conclusions: By understanding rehabilitation need, the findings will help healthcare professionals and health service providers understand how to prioritise the supports required and encourage policy makers to adequately resource neurorehabilitation to meet the needs of people with a brain tumour diagnosis.

What are common barriers and helpful solutions to colorectal cancer screening? A cross-sectional survey to develop intervention content for a planning support tool.

OBJECTIVE: Colorectal screening using faecal immunochemical tests (FITs) can save lives if the people invited participate. In Scotland, most people intend to complete a FIT but this is not reflected in uptake rates. Planning interventions can bridge this intention-behaviour gap. To develop a tool supporting people willing to do colorectal screening with planning to complete a FIT, this study aimed to identify frequently experienced barriers and solutions to these barriers. DESIGN: This is a cross-sectional study. SETTING: Participants were recruited through the Scottish Bowel Screening Programme to complete a mailed questionnaire. PARTICIPANTS: The study included 2387 participants who had completed a FIT (mean age 65 years, 40% female) and 359 participants who had not completed a FIT but were inclined to do so (mean age 63 years, 39% female). OUTCOME MEASURES: The questionnaire assessed frequency of endorsement of colorectal screening barriers and solutions. RESULTS: Participants who had not completed a FIT endorsed significantly more barriers than those who had completed a FIT, when demographic, health and behavioural covariates were held constant (F(1,2053)=13.40, p<0.001, partial η2=0.01). Participants who completed a FIT endorsed significantly more solutions than those who did not (U=301 585.50, z=-3.21, p<0.001, r=0.06). This difference became insignificant when covariates were controlled. Participants agreed on the most common barriers and solutions regardless of screening history. Barriers included procrastination, forgetting, fear of the test result, screening anxiety, disgust and low self-efficacy. Solutions included hand-washing, doing the FIT in private, reading the FIT instructions, benefit of early detection, feelings of responsibility, high self-efficacy and seeing oneself as a person who looks after one's health. CONCLUSION: This survey identified six barriers and seven solutions as key content to include in the development of a planning tool for colorectal screening using the FIT. Participatory research is required to codesign an engaging and accessible planning tool.

Maxillofacial injury related to an exploding e-cigarette.

Electronic cigarettes (also known as e-cigarettes or electronic nicotine delivery systems) were invented in China in 2003 then introduced to the British market in 2007. They remain popular among the public and are deemed to be effective in reducing tobacco smoking (the UK being one of the first countries to embrace them in a harm reduction policy). However, reports in the media of e-cigarettes exploding are of concern, considering the potential functional and psychological impairment that lifelong disfigurement will cause, especially given their uptake among people of any age. We present a case of this rare, but dramatic, effect of e-cigarette use as a warning to the public.

Healthcare professionals' implementation of national guidelines with patients who self-harm.

BACKGROUND: National guidelines for the short-term management of self-harm are aimed at healthcare professionals who may be involved in the care of people who have self-harmed. However, evidence from small-scale studies globally suggest there is a lack of awareness of such guidelines among some groups of healthcare professionals. For the first time in a large representative sample of patient-facing healthcare professionals, we aimed to identify: (a) which healthcare professionals are aware of guidelines for the management of self-harm; (b) the perceived availability of training; (c) the use of risk screening tools; and (d) the extent to which healthcare professionals implement guidelines for the management of self-harm. METHODS: 1020 UK healthcare professionals completed a cross-sectional survey online. RESULTS: 85.6% (873/1020) of the sample had heard of the national guidelines, but only 24.3% (248/1020) knew "a fair amount" or more about them. Of the respondents who had previously encountered a patient who had self-harmed or was at risk of repeat self-harm, the guidelines were implemented in fewer than 50% (M = 43.89%, SD = 38.79) of encounters. 31% (312/1020) of the sample had received training in managing self-harm and, contrary to guidelines, 2.25% (23/1020) of the sample had used self-harm risk screening tools. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings highlight a need to improve knowledge of self-harm management guidelines, and identifies professional groups where awareness and knowledge is currently low. Further work is required to develop interventions to change healthcare professional practice with respect to the implementation of self-harm management guidelines.

What distinguishes adolescents with suicidal thoughts from those who have attempted suicide? A population-based birth cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Only one-third of young people who experience suicidal ideation attempt suicide. It is important to identify factors which differentiate those who attempt suicide from those who experience suicidal ideation but do not act on these thoughts. METHODS: Participants were 4,772 members of the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), a UK population-based birth cohort. Suicide ideation and attempts were assessed at age 16 years via self-report questionnaire. Multinomial regression was used to examine associations between factors that differentiated adolescents in three groups: no suicidal ideation or attempts, suicidal ideation only and suicide attempts. Analyses were conducted on an imputed data set based on those with complete outcome data (suicidal thoughts and attempts) at age 16 years (N = 4,772). RESULTS: The lifetime prevalence of suicidal ideation and attempts in the sample was 9.6% and 6.8% respectively. Compared to adolescents who had experienced suicidal ideation, those who attempted suicide were more likely to report exposure to self-harm in others (adjusted OR for family member self-harm: 1.95, for friend self-harm: 2.61 and for both family and friend self-harm: 5.26). They were also more likely to have a psychiatric disorder (adjusted OR for depression: 3.63; adjusted OR for anxiety disorder: 2.20; adjusted OR for behavioural disorder: 2.90). Other risk factors included female gender, lower IQ, higher impulsivity, higher intensity seeking, lower conscientiousness, a greater number of life events, body dissatisfaction, hopelessness, smoking and illicit drug use (excluding cannabis). CONCLUSIONS: The extent of exposure to self-harm in others and the presence of psychiatric disorder most clearly differentiate adolescents who attempt suicide from those who only experience suicidal ideation. Further longitudinal research is needed to explore whether these risk factors predict progression from suicidal ideation to attempts over time.

Management of the temporomandibular joint in inflammatory arthritis: Involvement of surgical procedures.

Many conditions may affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), but its incidence in individual joint diseases is low. However, inflammatory arthropathies, particularly rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, appear to have a propensity for affecting the joint. Symptoms include pain, restriction in mouth opening, locking, and noises, which together can lead to significant impairment. Jaw rest, a soft diet, a bite splint, and medical therapy, including disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and simple analgesia, are the bedrock of initial treatment and will improve most symptoms in most patients. Symptom deterioration does not necessarily follow disease progression, but when it does, TMJ arthroscopy and arthrocentesis can help modulate pain, increase mouth opening, and relieve locking. These minimally invasive procedures have few complications and can be repeated. Operations to repair or remove a damaged intra-articular disc or to refine joint anatomy are used in select cases. Total TMJ replacement is reserved for patients where joint collapse or fusion has occurred or in whom other treatments have failed to provide adequate symptomatic control. It yields excellent outcomes and is approved by the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE), UK. Knowledge of the assessment and treatment of the TMJ, which differs from other joints affected by inflammatory arthritis due to its unique anatomy and function, is not widespread outside of the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery. The aim of this article is to highlight the peculiarities of TMJ disease secondary to rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis and how to best manage these ailments, which should help guide when referral to a specialist TMJ surgeon is appropriate.

Use of three-dimensional printing to assess transport vectors in mandibular distraction osteogenesis.

It can be difficult to assess the transport vectors for mandibular distraction osteogenesis intraoperatively. Computed tomography (CT) and 3-dimensional digital reconstruction allow "on screen" assessment, but they have limitations, and errors can occur when the 2-dimensional preoperative plan is translated into the operation. We can simulate the operation and reconstruction with 3-dimensional printed models. This allows us to make cutting guides that indicate the position of the osteotomy, which can be extended to position the distractor accurately. The success of this technique relies on close communication with the prosthetic scientist.

Problems encountered by parents of infants with clubfoot treated by the Ponseti method in Madagascar: A study to inform better practice.

OBJECTIVE: Ponseti treatment for clubfoot is effective and inexpensive, improving children's social participation. Two rehabilitation centres in Madagascar piloted Ponseti treatment; however, at one centre 46% of infants failed to complete treatment. The aim of this study was to determine the causes of defaulting in order to facilitate subsequent improvements nationwide when treatment is rolled out to all centres. METHODS: Questionnaire-based interviews. PATIENTS: Twenty mothers of infants younger than 1 year were interviewed after 3 months of treatment in relation to difficulties they experienced with continuing treatment. RESULTS: Fifteen families of these had financial problems: 7 incurred debt, 2 sold possessions, 4 parents stopped work an 2 did not give any further details. All mothers experienced distress; 9 hid their child's foot, and 8 were accused of wrong-doing during pregnancy. Three families travelled more than 500 km to the treatment centre and journeys were costly and difficult. Ponseti splints were acceptable, but aftercare of the splints proved problematic. CONCLUSION: Repeated travel to the clinic resulted in financial and social burden on the families, which reduced their ability to engage in treatment. The findings of this study are similar to work from other countries, but publications on rehabilitation from Madagascar are few. Improved support for parents, information, splinting with better materials and provision of treatment more locally are needed. Financial support for parents is key to enhancing children's life chances.

Prospective outcome analysis of total replacement of the temporomandibular joint with the TMJ Concepts system in patients with inflammatory arthritic diseases.

We report the outcomes of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis, who had total replacement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) using the TMJ Concepts system between 2005 and 2014. We prospectively measured mouth opening (mm), and pain and dietary function (visual analogue scale (VAS), 1 - 100) before operation, and at 6 weeks, 6 months, one year, and beyond. Forty-six joints were replaced in 26 patients (mean age 40, range 16 - 71), 22 of whom were female. Most had rheumatoid (n=17) or psoriatic arthritis (n=7). At one year the mean (SD) pain scores had fallen from 55 (36) to 2 (7) on the left, and from 62 (31) to 2 (5) on the right (p<0.001). Mean (SD) scores for dietary function had increased from 48(25) to 95(9) (p<0.001), and mouth opening had increased from a mean (SD) of 23(10) mm to 35(5) mm (p<0.001). The joints dislocated during the operation in 5 patients, and 4 had temporary weakness of the facial nerve. Outcomes after replacement of the TMJ with the TMJ Concepts system were good in patients with inflammatory arthritis, which further validates the procedure, as damage to the joint is severe in this group.

Recent advances in the management of oral and maxillofacial trauma.

This review summarises recently published papers on maxillofacial trauma in 2 widely read journals: the British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (BJOMS) and the International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (IJOMS). Since a large proportion of the injuries seen in oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) departments are fractures of the facial skeleton, we primarily focus on their assessment and treatment, but also cover problems that affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) (including ankylosis), military injuries, polytrauma, and the use of perioperative drugs. Between 2012 and 2013, 121 articles were published in the 2 journals. Most of the research concerned mandibular fractures, particularly those involving the condyle, but epidemiological studies and midfacial fractures were also well represented. Even though the incidence of facial injury is high, it is difficult to collect data particularly when long-term evaluation is required, as rates of compliance and attendance at follow up tend to be low. The number of large-scale studies was therefore small. A concerted effort to collaborate nationally and across specialties to undertake larger studies will help to improve outcomes.

Focused review of investigation, management and outcomes of salivary gland disease in specialty-specific journals.

We review papers on diseases of the salivary glands published in journals relating to the head and neck, which are commonly read by members of our specialty. Most of the papers focus on the investigation and treatment of diseases of the parotid gland, which reflects the relative prevalence of parotid lesions among salivary gland diseases. Minimally invasive surgery is increasingly of interest. There is a lack of clinical trials that address the many controversies concerning salivary gland surgery, and much of the evidence for treatment is based on small case series and expert opinion, partly because of the relative rarity of salivary disease and the disparate groups that treat it. This problem could be addressed if regional and national oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) units, and possibly other specialties, could collaborate more closely and combine data.

Novel endoscopic management of a late complication following TVT insertion for stress urinary incontinence.

PATIENT: Female, 57 FINAL DIAGNOSIS: Bladder erosion Symptoms: Haematuria • irritative bladder symptoms • recurrent UTI Medication: - Clinical Procedure: Endoscopic tape resection Specialty: Urology. OBJECTIVE: Unusual or unexpected effect of treatment. BACKGROUND: Since 1995 over 1 million tension free vaginal slings have been utilized to treat stress incontinence. The 10 year success rates range from 84-93%. Complication rates are low by comparision. Bladder perforation occurring during the time of surgery and is managed effectively if diagnosed and treated intraoperatively. However bladder erosion occuring post-operatively predominantly occur within the first 2 years. The risk of erosion increases with body mass index and previous vaginal surgery. CASE REPORT: We report the case of a bladder erosion occurring 5 years following the original surgery. The symptoms included recurrent urinary tract infections, frequency and haematuria. A novel technique was employed using the transurethral approach to initially disintegrate the calculus and then using an endoshears to excise the mesh below the level of the epithelium. Continence was maintained postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: This approach provides a safe alternative to both the transvaginal and transabdominal approach to excising intravesical mesh.

The relative cost of sentinel lymph node biopsy in early oral cancer.

INTRODUCTION: The European Sentinel Node (SENT) trial addressed the question of the clinically lymph node negative (cN0) neck in early oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Apart from reducing neck dissection numbers, sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) may reduce treatment cost. Using a treatment model derived from SENT trial information, estimates were produced of relative treatment costs between patients managed through a traditional surgical or SLNB pathway. METHODS: The model created two management approaches, the traditional surgical pathway and SLNB pathway. Using SENT trial data regarding the proportion of patients with positive, negative and false negative SLNB's a relative cost ratio (RCR) for 100 hypothetical patients passing down each pathway was generated. RESULTS: From a cohort of 481 patients, 25% had a positive SLNB, 75% a negative result and 2.5% a false negative result. Treatment of 100 hypothetical patients using the SLNB pathway is 0.35-0.60 the cost of treating the same cohort using traditional surgery techniques. Even if 100% of SLNB's are positive the SLNB approach is 0.91 of the cost of the traditional surgical approach. CONCLUSION: The SLNB approach appears to be cheaper relative to the traditional surgical approach, especially when extrapolated to 100 hypothetical patients.

Predicting deliberate self-harm in adolescents: a six month prospective study.

Few studies have investigated the extent to which psychosocial/psychological factors are associated with the prediction of deliberate self-harm (DSH) among adolescents. In this study, 737 pupils aged 15-16 years completed a lifestyle and coping survey at time one and 500 were followed up six months later. Six point two percent of the respondents (n = 31) reported an act of DSH between Time 1 and Time 2. In multivariate analyses, worries about sexual orientation, history of sexual abuse, family DSH, anxiety, and self-esteem were associated with repeat DSH during the course of the study, but history of sexual abuse was the only factor predictive of first-time DSH. The findings suggest that school-based programs focused on how young people cope with psychosocial stressors may offer promise.

Predicting walking ability following lower limb amputation: a systematic review of the literature.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate factors that predict walking with a prosthesis after lower limb amputation. DESIGN: Systematic literature review. METHODS: A computer-aided literature search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and the Cochrane Library was performed to identify studies published up to August 2007 that investigated factors that predicted walking ability after lower limb amputation. RESULTS: A total of 57 studies were selected. Predictors of good walking ability following lower limb amputation include cognition, fitness, ability to stand on one leg, independence in activities of daily living and pre-operative mobility. Longer time from surgery to rehabilitation and stump problems are predictors of poor outcome. The impact of the cause of amputation on walking varies between studies. In general, unilateral and distal amputation levels, and younger age were predictive of better walking ability. Sex probably does not have a significant influence on walking ability. CONCLUSION: The heterogeneity of methods and outcome measures used in the identified studies make comparison difficult and, in part, explains conflicting conclusions in relation to predictive factors. Further investigation of predictive factors is needed to estimate walking potential more accurately and guide targeting of modifiable factors to optimize outcome after lower limb amputation.

Self-harm in adolescents: self-report survey in schools in Scotland.

BACKGROUND: The suicide rate in Scotland is twice as high as that in England. However, the prevalence of self-harm is unknown. AIMS: To determine the prevalence of self-harm in adolescents in Scotland and the factors associated with it. METHOD: A total of 2008 pupils aged 15-16 years completed an anonymous lifestyle and coping survey. Information was obtained on demographic characteristics, lifestyle, life events and problems, social influences, psychological variables and self-harm. RESULTS: Self-harm was reported by 13.8% of the respondents. The majority (71%) of those who had self-harmed had done so in the past 12 months and girls were approximately 3.4 times more likely to report self-harm than boys. In multivariate analyses, smoking, bullying, worries about sexual orientation, self-harm by family and anxiety were associated with self-harm in both genders. In addition, drug use, physical abuse, serious boy/girlfriend problems, self-harm by friends and low levels of optimism were also associated with self-harm in girls. CONCLUSIONS: Despite markedly different national suicide rates, the prevalence of self-harm in Scotland is similar to that in England with girls at least three times more likely to report self-harm than boys. The findings suggest a role for emotional literacy programmes in schools and highlight the importance of promoting positive mental health among adolescents.

Cerebral haemorrhage as the presenting feature of myeloproliferative disorder.

Myeloproliferative disorders predispose individuals to bleeding and thrombosis, often with devastating consequences. We report a 41-year-old man who presented with headache, amnesia and dysphagia due to cerebral haemorrhage. Extensive investigation revealed the cause of the neurological syndrome as an underlying essential thrombocytosis. The patient made a full recovery following extensive inpatient and community rehabilitation, returning to work after 6 months. We discuss the diagnosis and management of stroke due to myeloproliferative conditions. This case report illustrates the importance of multidisciplinary teamwork in fully investigating and treating all patients with acute onset of stroke.