Sedative use and incidence of falls and hip fractures among older adults in an outpatient geriatric clinic / Perfil de uso de sedativos e ocorrência de quedas e fratura de fêmur entre idosos em um ambulatório de geriatria

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the use of sedatives by older adults attending a private outpatient geriatric clinic in Belo Horizonte (MG), Brazil, and its association with falls and hip fractures. METHODS: Using a longitudinal design, the prevalence of benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine ("z-drugs") intake by older adults was described and their association with the incidence of falls and fractures (30 days after the initial visit) was evaluated through logistic regression. RESULTS: A total of 7821 older adults were included in the study, most of them women (72.50%), with a mean age of 77.5 years and a mean Clinical-Functional Vulnerability Index (IVCF-20) score of 16.5. The overall prevalence of sedative use (any sedative) was 6.19%, with 4.48% benzodiazepines and 1.98% z-drugs. The most widely used sedatives were clonazepam (29.04%), zolpidem (28.65%), and alprazolam (23.44%). Falls were reported for 182 patients (2.33%), with a higher incidence among users of any sedatives (4.34; p = 0.002; OR = 1.94, adjusted for sex, age, and IVCF-20) and benzodiazepines (5.14%; p < 0.001; OR = 2.28) than among non-users (2.19%). Hip fractures occurred in 33 patients (0.42%), and again were more frequent among users of sedatives (1.03%; p = 0.032; OR = 2.57) and benzodiazepines (1.43%; p = 0.003; OR = 3.45) than among non-users (0.38%). CONCLUSIONS: The use of sedatives, especially benzodiazepines, is associated with an increased incidence of falls and hip fractures in older adults

OBJETIVO: Investigar a utilização de sedativos entre idosos atendidos em ambulatório privado de geriatria em Belo Horizonte (MG), bem como sua associação com quedas e fraturas de fêmur. METODOLOGIA: Trata-se de estudo longitudinal, no qual foi descrita a prevalência de uso de benzodiazepínicos e drogas Z entre idosos (60 anos ou mais) e avaliada sua associação com a incidência de queda e fratura (30 dias após consulta inicial) por meio de regressão logística. RESULTADOS: Foram incluídos no estudo 7821 idosos, com maioria feminina (72,50%), idade média de 77,5 anos e Índice de Vulnerabilidade Clínico Funcional (IVCF-20) médio de 16,5 pontos. A prevalência de uso de sedativos em geral foi de 6,19%, sendo 4,48% de benzodiazepínicos e 1,98% de drogas Z. Os medicamentos sedativos mais utilizados foram clonazepam (29,04%), zolpidem (28,65%) e alprazolam (23,44%). Relatou-se queda para 182 idosos (2,33%), com incidência maior entre usuários de sedativos (4,34; p = 0,002; OR = 1,94 ajustada por sexo, idade e IVCF-20) e de benzodiazepínicos (5,14%; p < 0,001; OR = 2,28) do que entre não usuários (2,19%). Identificou-se fratura de fêmur em 33 idosos (0,42%), sendo mais frequente entre usuários de sedativos (1,03%; p = 0,032; OR = 2,57) e de benzodiazepínicos (1,43%; p = 0,003; OR = 3,45) do que entre não usuários (0,38%). CONCLUSÃO: Concluiu-se que a incidência de quedas e fraturas de fêmur em idosos possui associação com o uso de medicamentos sedativos, em especial os benzodiazepínicos

Assessment of Pharmaceutical Services for Smoking Cessation: An Effectiveness-Implementation Hybrid Study.

Smoking is the main preventable cause of illness and early death worldwide. Thus, it is better to promote smoking cessation than to treat tobacco-related diseases. The objective of this study was to assess the implementation and effectiveness of smoking cessation pharmaceutical services offered in primary health care (PHC) in a large Brazilian city through a type 1 effectiveness-implementation hybrid study. The services were offered through individual or group approaches (Jan/2018-Dec/2019). The service indicators were described and the incidence of cessation in the services was evaluated. Factors associated with cessation were assessed by Poisson regression analysis. The services were offered in most PHC centers (61.2%) and by most pharmacists (81.3%). In total, 170 individual (9.7%) and 1591 group (90.3%) approaches occurred, leading to cessation in 39.4% (n = 67) and 44.8% (n = 712) of these, respectively. The use of nicotine plus antidepressants (RR = 1.30; 95%CI = 1.08-1.57; p = 0.006) and the number of sessions with pharmacists (RR = 1.21; 95%CI = 1.19-1.23; p < 0.001) were positively associated with cessation; a very high level of dependence was negatively associated (RR = 0.77; 95%CI = 0.67-0.89; p = 0.001). The smoking cessation services were effective and should be encouraged.

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): evaluation of AKT protein kinase and microRNA gene expression related to disease pathogenesis

Abstract The present study evaluated 56 patients diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) and a control group of 44 clinically healthy subjects with no previous history of leukemia. Genetic expressions of AKT and microRNAs were evaluated by quantitative PCR (qPCR). A significant increase in AKT gene expression in patients when compared to controls was observed (p = 0.017). When the patients were stratified according to Binet subgroups, a significant difference was observed between the subgroups, with this protein kinase appearing more expressed in the B+C subgroup (p = 0.013). Regarding miRNA expression, miR-let-7b and miR-26a were reduced in CLL patients, when compared to controls. However, no significant differences were observed in these microRNA expressions between the Binet subgroups (A versus B+C). By contrast, miR-21 to miR-27a oncogenes showed no expression difference between CLL patients and controls. AKT protein kinase is involved in the signaling cascade that occurs with BCR receptor activation, leading to increased lymphocyte survival and protection against the induction of cell death in CLL. Thus, increased AKT protein kinase expression and the reduction of miR-let-7b and miR-26a, both tumor suppressors, may explain increased lymphocyte survival in CLL patients and may be promising markers for the prognostic evaluation of this disease.

[Prevalence and factors associated with polypharmacy among the elderly treated in Primary Healthcare in Belo Horizonte, State of Minas Gerais, Brazil]. / Prevalência e Fatores Associados à Polifarmácia em Idosos Atendidos na Atenção Primária à Saúde em Belo Horizonte-MG, Brasil.

The scope of this article is to analyze the prevalence of polymedication and excessive polypharmacy, as well as associated factors, among the elderly attended at two Basic Health Units in Belo Horizonte, State of Minas Gerais. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted using information obtained from a structured interview of the patient. The individual associations of each explanatory variable with polypharmacy and with excessive polypharmacy were analyzed. For the variables that showed a significant association with polypharmacy, multivariate analysis was performed using the logistic regression model. The elderly used, on average, 5.2 drugs. The prevalence of polymedication was 57.7% and excessive polypharmacy was 4.8%. In univariate analysis the conditions associated with polypharmacy were: age ≤ 70 years, schooling > 8 years, presence of more than three diseases and presenting symptoms of depression. For excessive polypharmacy, the presence of more than three diseases, self-perception of negative health, and partial dependence on instrumental activities of daily living were associated with the conditions. In the final multivariate model for polypharmacy, the age ≤ 70 years and presence of more than three disease variables remained.

O objetivo deste artigo é analisar a prevalência de polifarmácia e de polifarmácia excessiva, bem como seus fatores associados, entre idosos atendidos em duas Unidades Básicas de Saúde de Belo Horizonte-MG. Foi conduzido um estudo observacional transversal, realizado por meio de informações resultantes de uma entrevista estruturada ao paciente. Foram analisadas as associações individuais de cada variável explicativa com a polifarmácia e polifarmácia excessiva. Para as variáveis que apresentaram associação significativa com polifarmácia, foi realizada análise multivariada por meio do modelo de regressão logística. Os idosos utilizavam, em média, 5,2 fármacos. A prevalência de polifarmácia foi de 57,7% e de polifarmácia excessiva foi de 4,8%. Na análise univariada, mostraram-se associadas à polifarmácia as condições idade ≤ 70 anos, escolaridade > 8 anos, presença de mais de três doenças e presença de sintomas de depressão. Para polifarmácia excessiva, mostraram-se associadas as condições presença de mais de três doenças, autopercepção da saúde negativa e dependência parcial nas atividades instrumentais de vida diária. No modelo multivariado final para polifarmácia, permaneceram as variáveis idade ≤ 70 anos e presença de mais de três doenças.

Health equity and the usage of atypical antipsychotics within the Brazilian national health system: findings and implications.

BACKGROUND: There is a need to evaluate the health equity of atypical antipsychotics users who obtain their medicines from the Brazilian National Health System (SUS) through the identification of key factors that influence their health status due to concerns with equity of care. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study among patients attending state pharmacies in Brazil. Individuals were included if they used atypical antipsychotics, aged ≥18 years, and answered the EQ-5D-3 L questionnaire. Sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical data were collected. The dependent variable was health status. Associations between the independent variables and the dependent variable were analyzed by adjusting a linear regression model. RESULTS: Overall, 388 individuals met the eligibility criteria and were included in the analysis. The final multiple linear regression model demonstrated a statistically significant association between VAS and suicide attempts, private care, current antipsychotics, comorbidities, and perceived family support. EXPERT COMMENTARY: The study identified several factors both individual and collective that correlate with the health status of atypical antipsychotic users and confirmed the importance of providing medicines for treating psychotic disorders. However, other factors are involved including social support. Our results suggest additional activities and policies are necessary including strategies to address the differences in private and public health care.

Factors associated with high medication regimen complexity in primary care older adults in Brazil.

PURPOSE: Complex medication regimens are common among older adults and contribute to the occurrence of undesirable health outcomes. This study aims to investigate the factors associated with high medication regimen complexity in older people. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted with older adults selected from two primary healthcare units. Medication regimen complexity was measured using the Brazilian version of the Medication Regimen Complexity Index. The Pearson's Chi square test was used to analyse the individual association of each independent variable with high medication regimen complexity. The backward stepwise method was used to obtain the final multivariate logistic regression model. RESULTS: We included 227 older adults with a median age of 70 years who were mostly females (70.9%). The median total Medication Regimen Complexity Index was 20.8 for high complexity and 10.5 for patients that were not using high complexity regimens. The Medication Regimen Complexity Index section with higher median scores in both groups was dosing frequency, followed by additional instructions. High complexity was associated with diabetes (OR 5.42; p = 0.00 2.69-10.93) and asthma/Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (OR 2.96(1.22-7.18); p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: Older people in primary care with diabetes and respiratory disease were most likely to have complex medication regimens. Dosing frequency and additional instructions were medication regime complexity index components that most contributed to the high complexity in medication regime of older adults.

Factors associated with the use of potentially inappropriate medications by older adults in primary health care: An analysis comparing AGS Beers, EU(7)-PIM List , and Brazilian Consensus PIM criteria.

BACKGROUND: Potentially inappropriate medications (PIM) for the older adults are those with an unfavorable risk-benefit ratio when more effective and safe therapeutic alternatives are available and is an important public health problem. PURPOSE: To analyze the factors associated with the use of PIM by the older adults and to investigate the agreement of PIM use frequency using the 2015 American Geriatric Society Beers Criteria for Potentially Inappropriate Medication Use in Older Adults - 2015 AGS Beers Criteria, the Brazilian consensus on potentially inappropriate medication for older adults (BCPIM) and the European union list of potentially inappropriate medications - EU (7)-PIM List. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study conducted in two primary health care centers in southeastern Brazil. The 2015 AGS Beers Criteria, BCPIM, and EU (7)-PIM List were used for the classification of PIM. The association between PIM use and independent variables was assessed by multiple logistic regression. The level of agreement of PIM use among the three criteria was measured with the Cohen's kappa coefficient. RESULTS: A total of 227 patients ≥60 years of age were included in the study. The frequency of PIM use was 53.7% for 2015 AGS Beers, 55.9% for BCPIM and 63.4% for the EU (7)-PIM List. The agreement between 2015 AGS Beers and BCPIM and between this and the EU (7)-PIM List was high, and moderate between the 2015 AGS Beers and the EU (7)-PIM List. Logistic regression showed association of PIM use with polypharmacy, self-reported neuropsychiatric and musculoskeletal diseases, age ≤70 years, preserved cognition and positive self-perception of health. CONCLUSION: The frequency of PIM use by the older adults of health centers investigated is high. Strategies for improving the pharmacotherapy of the older adults in primary health care should be implemented.

Which antiretroviral regimen is associated with higher adherence in Brazil? A comparison of single, multi, and dolutegravir-based regimens / Qual esquema antirretroviral está associado à maior adesão no Brasil? Uma comparação dos esquemas de comprimido único, múltiplos comprimidos e com dolutegravir / ¿Qué tratamiento antirretroviral está asociado con adherencia más alta en Brasil? Una comparación de tratamientos únicos, múltiples y basados en el dolutegravir

Abstract: We evaluated adherence to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and its associated factors according to the type of regimen in patients initiating treatment in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. We measured adherence using the eight items Morisky Therapeutic Adhesion Scale (MMAS-8) and compared the use of "backbone" tenofovir/lamivudine plus efavirenz one tablet once-daily (STR) or dolutegravir in multi-tablet once-daily (MTR-DTG), or other multi-tablet regimens (MTR-other). We conducted a multivariate logistic regression analysis to address factors associated with adherence. A total of 393 patients were included, 254 used STR, 106 MTR-DTG, and 33 MTR-other. The overall adhesion rate was 44.8% (95%CI: 39.4; 50.1), 50% for MTR-DTG, 43.3% for STR and 39.4% for MTR-other. Multivariate analysis showed a higher chance of adherence among patients using MTR-DTG, those who received and understood counseling about their treatment and with a higher quality of life. Prior use of illicit drugs in the lifetime was associated with poorer adherence. Overall adherence was low, highlighting the need for strategies focusing on counseling about medicines and substance use. Pill burden was not an issue for patients using MTR-DTG once-daily, who achieved better results.

Resumo: Avaliamos a adesão à terapia antirretroviral (TARV) e fatores associados de acordo com o tipo de esquema em pacientes no início do tratamento em Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil. Mensuramos a adesão com a Escala de Adesão Terapêutica de Morisky, de oito itens (MMAS-8), e comparamos o uso de tenofovir/lamivudina com efavirenz, um comprimido uma vez ao dia (STR), ou dolutegravir em múltiplos comprimidos uma vez ao dia (MTR-DTG), com outros esquemas com múltiplos comprimidos ao dia (MTR-outros). Conduzimos uma análise de regressão logística multivariada para avaliar os fatores associados à adesão. Foram incluídos 393 pacientes: 254 em uso de STR, 106 MTR-DTG e 33 MTR-outros. A taxa global de adesão foi 44,8% (IC95%: 39,4; 50,1), sendo 50% para MTR-DTG, 43,3% para STR e 39,4% para MTR-outros. A análise multivariada mostrou chances maiores de adesão em pacientes em uso de MTR-DTG, pacientes que haviam recebido e compreendido o aconselhamento sobre o tratamento e pacientes com melhor qualidade de vida. Uso anterior de drogas ilícitas em qualquer período da vida está associada à pior adesão. A adesão global foi baixa, enfatizando a necessidade de estratégias focadas no aconselhamento sobre medicamentos e uso de drogas. A quantidade de comprimidos não foi um problema para pacientes em uso de MTR-DTG uma vez ao dia, os quais alcançaram melhores taxas de adesão.

Resumen: Evaluamos la adherencia a la terapia antirretroviral altamente activa (TARAA) y sus factores asociados, según el tipo de tratamiento en pacientes que comenzaron su tratamiento en Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil. La adherencia se mensuró por la Escala de Adhesión Terapéutica de Morisky, de ocho ítems (MMAS-8), y se comparó el uso del "eje" tenofovir/lamivudina, además de un comprimido de efavirenz una vez al día (STR) o dolutegravir con varios comprimidos una vez al día (MTR-DTG), u otros tratamientos con múltiples comprimidos (MTR-otros). Se realizó un análisis multivariado de regresión logística para evaluar los factores asociados a la adherencia. Se incluyeron un total de 393 pacientes, 254 usaron STR, 106 MTR-DTG, y 33 MTR-Otros. La tasa de adherencia general fue de un 44,8% (95%CI: 39,4; 50,1), 50% en el MTR-DTG, 43,3% en el STR y 39,4% en el MTR-otros. El análisis multivariado mostró una probabilidad más alta de adherencia entre pacientes usando MTR-DTG, quienes recibieron y comprendieron las orientaciones acerca de sus tratamientos y los que disfrutaban de una calidad mejor de vida. El consumo previo de drogas ilícitas a lo largo de la vida estuvo asociado con una adherencia más escasa. La adherencia general fue baja y resalta la necesidad de estrategias que se enfoquen en brindar orientación sobre el uso de la medicación y de sustancias. El número de comprimidos no fue un problema para los pacientes que tomaban MTR-DTG una vez al día, que obtuvieron mejores resultados.

Effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy in the single-tablet regimen era.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy and the associated factors according to the type of regimen used: Single Tablet Regimen or Multiple Tablet Regimen. METHODS: Prospective cohort of 440 patients (male, 74.3%, median age, 36 years old) who initiated antiretroviral therapy between Jan/14 and Dec/15 at a referral service in Belo Horizonte. Efficacy was defined as viral suppression (viral load, VL < 50 copies/ml) and evaluated after six and twelve months of treatment. Sociodemographic, clinical and behavioral data were collected from clinical charts and from Information Systems. Multivariate analysis of overall effectiveness was performed by logistic regression. RESULTS: Most patients initiated Multiple Tablet Regimen antiretroviral therapy (n = 255, 58%). At six months, overall viral suppression was 74.6%, being higher among patients who used Single Tablet Regimen (80.6%, p = 0.04). At twelve months, 83.2% of patients reached viral suppression, with no difference between groups (p = 0.93). Factors independently associated with viral suppression at six and twelve months varied, being negatively associated with effectiveness: VL ≥ 100,000 copies/ml, symptoms of AIDS, longer interval time between diagnosis and initiation of antiretroviral therapy, antiretroviral switching, smoking or current illicit drugs usage (p < 0.05). Factors positively associated with viral suppression included adherence to antiretroviral therapy and category of risk/exposure of men who have sex with men (p < 0.05). Reaching viral suppression at six months was the main predictor of effectiveness at one year (OR = 8.96 and p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Viral suppression was high and better results were achieved for patients who used Single Tablet Regimen regimens at six months. Clinical, behavioral, and antiretroviral therapy -related factors influence viral suppression and highlight the need for interventions to increase early diagnosis and initiation of antiretroviral therapy, patient's adherence, and to reduce illicit drugs and cigarette smoking in this population.

Vasoactive intestinal peptide degradation might influence Interleukin-17 expression in cardiac chagasic patients.

The vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) expression is lower in cardiac chagasic patients and is related to worse cardiac function. The reduction of VIP in patients with Chagas disease may be a result of its enhanced degradation. To test this hypothesis, the tryptase and chymase expression was evaluated. We also related VIP levels with interleukin-17 (IL-17) expression since VIP may modulate IL-17 production. Plasma levels of chymase were higher in chagasic patients. Conversely, VIP/chymase and VIP/tryptase ratios were lower in chagasic patients when compared to non-infected individuals. Besides, the VIP/chymase ratio was lower in chagasic cardiac patients in comparison with the indeterminate group. A positive correlation between tryptase and chymase levels was observed in chagasic cardiac patients. In relation to IL-17, we observed a higher expression of this cytokine in the cardiac form of the disease than in the indeterminate form. IL-17/VIP ratio was higher in the cardiac form in comparison with non-infected or indeterminate form. These results suggest that the low levels of VIP observed in chagasic patients could be due to an increased production of chymase and/or to the additive effect of the interaction between chymase and tryptase in the cardiac form. Moreover, the decreased VIP expression may contribute to the increase of IL-17 in chagasic cardiac patients.

Drug utilization and factors associated with polypharmacy in individuals with diabetes mellitus in Minas Gerais, Brazil. / Uso de medicamentos e fatores associados à polifarmácia em indivíduos com diabetes mellitus em Minas Gerais, Brasil.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of drugs and the factors associated with polypharmacy in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) in Minas Gerais. Descriptive analysis of drugs in use and logistic regression to estimate the association between socio-demographic and clinical characteristics with polypharmacy were performed. Of the 2619 respondents, 56.5% were in polypharmacy. Drugs for DM, agent in renin-angiotensin system, and diuretics are the most frequently used. Factors such as age, comorbidities and increased access to health services were associated with polypharmacy. It was observed high prevalence of polypharmacy, which requires a suitable care and better quality of drug use in this population.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o uso de medicamentos, a prevalência e os fatores associados à polifarmácia em pacientes com diabetes mellitus (DM) em Minas Gerais. Realizou-se um estudo transversal com descrição dos medicamentos em uso e análise da associação entre características sociodemográficas e clínicas com polifarmácia, por meio de regressão logística. Dos 2619 entrevistados, 56,5% estavam em polifarmácia. Medicamentos para DM, agentes no sistema renina-angiotensina e diuréticos foram os mais usados. Fatores como envelhecimento, presença de comorbidades e maior acesso aos serviços de saúde foram associados à polifarmácia. Observou-se elevada prevalência de polifarmácia, o que requer um cuidado adequado e melhor qualidade do uso de medicamentos para essa população.

Uso de medicamentos e fatores associados à polifarmácia em indivíduos com diabetes mellitus em Minas Gerais, Brasil / Drug utilization and factors associated with polypharmacy in individuals with diabetes mellitus in Minas Gerais, Brazil

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o uso de medicamentos, a prevalência e os fatores associados à polifarmácia em pacientes com diabetes mellitus (DM) em Minas Gerais. Realizou-se um estudo transversal com descrição dos medicamentos em uso e análise da associação entre características sociodemográficas e clínicas com polifarmácia, por meio de regressão logística. Dos 2619 entrevistados, 56,5% estavam em polifarmácia. Medicamentos para DM, agentes no sistema renina-angiotensina e diuréticos foram os mais usados. Fatores como envelhecimento, presença de comorbidades e maior acesso aos serviços de saúde foram associados à polifarmácia. Observou-se elevada prevalência de polifarmácia, o que requer um cuidado adequado e melhor qualidade do uso de medicamentos para essa população.

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of drugs and the factors associated with polypharmacy in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) in Minas Gerais. Descriptive analysis of drugs in use and logistic regression to estimate the association between socio-demographic and clinical characteristics with polypharmacy were performed. Of the 2619 respondents, 56.5% were in polypharmacy. Drugs for DM, agent in renin-angiotensin system, and diuretics are the most frequently used. Factors such as age, comorbidities and increased access to health services were associated with polypharmacy. It was observed high prevalence of polypharmacy, which requires a suitable care and better quality of drug use in this population.

Effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy in the single-tablet regimen era / Efetividade da terapia antirretroviral na era de medicamentos em dose fixa combinada

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy and the associated factors according to the type of regimen used: Single Tablet Regimen or Multiple Tablet Regimen. METHODS Prospective cohort of 440 patients (male, 74.3%, median age, 36 years old) who initiated antiretroviral therapy between Jan/14 and Dec/15 at a referral service in Belo Horizonte. Efficacy was defined as viral suppression (viral load, VL < 50 copies/ml) and evaluated after six and twelve months of treatment. Sociodemographic, clinical and behavioral data were collected from clinical charts and from Information Systems. Multivariate analysis of overall effectiveness was performed by logistic regression. RESULTS Most patients initiated Multiple Tablet Regimen antiretroviral therapy (n = 255, 58%). At six months, overall viral suppression was 74.6%, being higher among patients who used Single Tablet Regimen (80.6%, p = 0.04). At twelve months, 83.2% of patients reached viral suppression, with no difference between groups (p = 0.93). Factors independently associated with viral suppression at six and twelve months varied, being negatively associated with effectiveness: VL ≥ 100,000 copies/ml, symptoms of AIDS, longer interval time between diagnosis and initiation of antiretroviral therapy, antiretroviral switching, smoking or current illicit drugs usage (p < 0.05). Factors positively associated with viral suppression included adherence to antiretroviral therapy and category of risk/exposure of men who have sex with men (p < 0.05). Reaching viral suppression at six months was the main predictor of effectiveness at one year (OR = 8.96 and p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Viral suppression was high and better results were achieved for patients who used Single Tablet Regimen regimens at six months. Clinical, behavioral, and antiretroviral therapy -related factors influence viral suppression and highlight the need for interventions to increase early diagnosis and initiation of antiretroviral therapy, patient's adherence, and to reduce illicit drugs and cigarette smoking in this population.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Avaliar a efetividade da terapia antirretroviral e fatores associados segundo o tipo de esquema utilizado: medicamento em dose fixa combinada ou múltiplos medicamentos e doses. MÉTODOS Coorte prospectiva não concorrente de 440 pacientes que iniciaram terapia antirretroviral entre janeiro de 2014 e dezembro de 2015 em Belo Horizonte, MG. A efetividade foi definida como supressão viral (carga viral [CV] < 50 cópias/ml) e avaliada após seis e 12 meses de tratamento. Dados sociodemográficos, clínicos e comportamentais foram coletados de prontuário clínico e de sistemas de informação. A análise múltipla da efetividade global foi realizada por regressão logística. RESULTADOS A maioria dos pacientes iniciou terapia antirretroviral com múltiplos medicamentos e doses (58%). Aos seis meses, a supressão viral global foi 74,6%, maior entre pacientes que utilizaram dose fixa combinada (80,6%; p = 0,04). Aos 12 meses, 83,2% dos pacientes atingiram supressão viral, sem diferença entre os grupos (p = 0,93). Fatores independentemente associados à supressão viral em seis e 12 meses variaram, e foram negativamente associados à efetividade: CV ≥ 100.000 cópias/ml, sintomas definidores de aids, maior intervalo de tempo entre diagnóstico e início da terapia antirretroviral, troca de antirretroviral e consumo de tabaco ou drogas ilícitas (p < 0,05). Fatores positivamente associados à supressão viral incluíram adesão à terapia antirretroviral e categoria de risco/exposição de homens que fazem sexo com homens (p < 0,05). Atingir supressão viral aos seis meses foi o principal preditor de efetividade em um ano (OR = 8,96; p < 0,01). CONCLUSÕES A supressão viral foi elevada e superior para pacientes que utilizaram esquemas de dose fixa combinada aos seis meses. Fatores clínicos, comportamentais e relacionados à terapia antirretroviral influenciaram a supressão viral e evidenciam a necessidade de intervenções para aumentar o diagnóstico, o início precoce e a adesão dos pacientes à terapia antirretroviral, bem como reduzir o uso de drogas ilícitas e tabaco nesta população.

Infrastructure evaluation of Pharmaceutical Services in the National Health System of Minas Gerais. / Avaliação da infraestrutura da Assistência Farmacêutica no Sistema Único de Saúde em Minas Gerais.

OBJECTIVES: To characterize the infrastructure of public pharmacies in Minas Gerais, comparing municipalities that have received the RFM program to the ones that haven't, in order to verify if the State's Economic Incentives implied in improvement of local Pharmaceutical Services (PS). METHODS: A cross-sectional, exploratory, evaluative study in a representative sample of the municipalities of Minas Gerais. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with users, physicians, and drug dispensers, as well as observation of pharmacy facilities and telephone interviews with municipal officials from the PS. 104 municipalities were selected, of which 41.3% had adopted the RFM. Data were collected from July 2014 to May 2015. RESULTS: Municipalities adept to the RFM presented significantly higher rates of legal documentation, more comfort for users and staff, better storage conditions of medicine and competence to conduct clinical activities. CONCLUSION: The higher state investment in the PS organization for municipalities adept to the RFM developed better infrastructure that have been approved by health professionals and the users of the National Health System.

Avaliação da infraestrutura da Assistência Farmacêutica no Sistema Único de Saúde em Minas Gerais / Infrastructure evaluation of Pharmaceutical Services in the National Health System of Minas Gerais

Resumo Em 2008, o estado de Minas Gerais criou o Programa Rede Farmácia de Minas (RFM), uma estratégia para garantir infraestrutura adequada das farmácias. O objetivo deste artigo é caracterizar a infraestrutura da Assistência Farmacêutica (AF) de Minas Gerais, comparando municípios contemplados ou não pela RFM, no intuito de verificar se os gastos estaduais implicaram em melhoria das AF municipais. Estudo transversal de avaliação da AF de Minas Gerais. Foram realizadas entrevistas presenciais e telefônicas com usuários, médicos, responsáveis pela AF e dispensadores de medicamentos, além de observação das instalações. Foram selecionados 104 municípios, dos quais 41,3% haviam adotado a RFM. Os dados foram coletados de julho de 2014 a maio de 2015. Municípios com RFM apresentaram taxas significativamente maiores de regularização da documentação legal, maior conforto para os usuários e funcionários, melhores condições de armazenamento de medicamento e realização de atividades clínicas. O maior volume de investimentos estadual na AF dos municípios com RFM gerou melhores condições de infraestrutura que foram avaliadas positivamente tanto por profissionais de saúde como pelos usuários do SUS.

Abstract In 2008 the state of Minas Gerais created the "Program Rede Farmácia de Minas" (RFM), a strategy to ensure adequate infrastructure of local public pharmacies, in order to improve the quality of medications use. Objectives To characterize the infrastructure of public pharmacies in Minas Gerais, comparing municipalities that have received the RFM program to the ones that haven't, in order to verify if the State's Economic Incentives implied in improvement of local Pharmaceutical Services (PS). Methods A cross-sectional, exploratory, evaluative study in a representative sample of the municipalities of Minas Gerais. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with users, physicians, and drug dispensers, as well as observation of pharmacy facilities and telephone interviews with municipal officials from the PS. 104 municipalities were selected, of which 41.3% had adopted the RFM. Data were collected from July 2014 to May 2015. Results Municipalities adept to the RFM presented significantly higher rates of legal documentation, more comfort for users and staff, better storage conditions of medicine and competence to conduct clinical activities. Conclusion The higher state investment in the PS organization for municipalities adept to the RFM developed better infrastructure that have been approved by health professionals and the users of the National Health System.

Hospitalization of schizophrenic patients in the public health system of Minas Gerais, Brazil / Hospitalização de pacientes esquizofrênicos no Sistema Único de Saúde em Minas Gerais, Brasil

Objectives: The aim of this study was to describe the socio-demographic and clinical variables, identify the determinants of length of stay and estimate the cost of inpatient treatment of schizophrenia in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Methods: A non-concurrent cohort was conducted in three psychiatric hospitals of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The data was collected from patients' records in loco. The association between dependent and independent variables was evaluated via linear regression. The costs were calculated through an absorption costing method. Results: 1,928 patients that met the inclusion criteria were identified. Most patients were male, had no life partner, studied no more than the middle school, had no occupation and lived in the city of hospital assistance. Haloperidol was the most prescribed antipsychotic drug. Risperidone was the most used second-generation antipsychotic, followed by olanzapine. Average length of stay was 30.3 days (SD = 37.5 days) and the median was 20 days. Female patients, living in cities other than the hospital's, with involuntary or mandatory hospitalizations and in use of a second-generation antipsychotic (SGA) and a first-generation antipsychotic (FGA) were associated to a longer length of stay. Average cost of hospitalization was R$ 11,713.07 (US$ 5,300.03) per hospitalization. Our results were corroborated by literature data. Conclusion: We found that most schizophrenic inpatients were male, single, had a low educational level and no occupational activity. The longer length of stay was associated to the socio-demographic and clinical variables, sex, place of residence, willingness to hospitalization of the patient and antipsychotic use

Objetivos: O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever as características sociodemográficas e clínicas, identificar os determinantes do tempo de permanência hospitalar e estimar o custo do tratamento hospitalar de pacientes com esquizofrenia em Minas Gerais, Brasil. Métodos: Uma coorte não concorrente foi conduzida em três instituições psiquiátricas de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Dados foram coletados dos prontuários dos pacientes in loco. A associação entre variáveis dependentes e independentes foi avaliada por meio de regressão linear. Os custos foram calculados por um método de Custeio de Absorção. Resultados: 1.928 pacientes foram incluídos no estudo. A maior parte deles era do sexo masculino, não tinha companheiro de vida, estudou até o ensino fundamental, não tinha ocupação e vivia na cidade em que receberam atenção hospitalar. Haloperidol foi o antipsicótico mais prescrito. Risperidona foi o antipsicótico atípico mais utilizado, seguido pela olanzapina. O tempo médio de hospitalização foi de 30,3 dias (DP = 37,5 dias) e a mediana, de 20 dias. Pacientes do sexo feminino, vivendo em cidades diferentes de onde receberam atenção hospitalar, em hospitalização involuntária ou mandatória e em uso de antipsicóticos típicos e atípicos, foram associados a tempos de internação mais longos. O custo médio de hospitalização foi de R$ 11,713.07 (US$ 5,300.03) por hospitalização. Os resultados concordam com dados da literatura. Conclusão: A maior parte dos pacientes com esquizofrenia internados nas instituições avaliadas era do sexo masculino, solteira, tinha baixo nível educacional e não tinha ocupação. O tempo de permanência mais longo foi associado às variáveis sociodemográficas e clínicas, sexo, local de residência, tipo de hospitalização quanto à voluntariedade e o uso de antipsicóticos.

Comparison of education group strategies and home visits in type 2 diabetes mellitus: clinical trial / Comparação das estratégias de educação em grupo e visita domiciliar em diabetes mellitus tipo 2: ensaio clínico / Comparación de las estrategias de educación en grupo y visita domiciliaria en diabetes mellitus tipo 2: ensayo clínico

ABSTRACT Objective: to compare the adherence and empowerment of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus for self-care practices and glycemic control in group education strategies and home visits. Method: Clinical trial with ten randomized clusters, performed with 238 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus distributed in group education, home visit, and control group. Socio-demographic data, glycated hemoglobin and those obtained from the self-care and empowerment questionnaires were collected. Statistical analysis was performed separately by educational strategy. Results: the mean age of the patients was 57.8 years old (SD = 9.4 years old), with a predominantly female participation (66.4%). Both strategies presented similar results regarding adherence to self-care practices and patient empowerment. There was also a reduction in glycated hemoglobin levels; however, only in the education group, the difference presented statistical significance (p <0.001). Conclusion: the strategies were effective; however, group education presented better glycemic control results in relation to the home visit. International registry: NCT02132338 and national: RBR-92j38t in the clinical trials registry.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar a adesão e o empoderamento do usuário com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 para as práticas de autocuidado e controle glicêmico nas estratégias de educação em grupo e visita domiciliar. Método: Ensaio clínico com dez clusters randomizados, realizado com 238 usuários com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 distribuídos entre educação em grupo, visita domiciliar e grupo controle. Foram coletados dados sociodemográficos, hemoglobina glicada e aqueles obtidos a partir dos questionários de empoderamento e de autocuidado. A análise estatística foi realizada separadamente por estratégia educativa. Resultados: a média de idade dos usuários era de 57,8 anos (DP = 9,4 anos), com participação predominantemente feminina (66,4%). Ambas as estratégias apresentaram resultados semelhantes quanto à adesão para as práticas de autocuidado e o empoderamento do usuário. Observou-se, também, uma redução nos níveis de hemoglobina glicada; entretanto, apenas na educação em grupo, a diferença apresentou significância estatística (p<0,001). Conclusão: as estratégias foram efetivas; porém, a educação em grupo apresentou melhores resultados de controle glicêmico em relação à visita domiciliar. Registro internacional: NCT02132338 e nacional: RBR-92j38t no cadastro de ensaios clínicos.

RESUMEN Objetivo: comparar la adherencia y el empoderamiento del usuario con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 para las prácticas de autocuidado y control glicémico en las estrategias de educación en grupo y visita domiciliaria. Método: Ensayo clínico con diez clusters aleatorizados, realizado con 238 usuarios con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 distribuidos entre educación en grupo, visita domiciliaria y grupo control. Fueron recogidos datos sociodemográficos, hemoglobina glicada y aquellos obtenidos a partir de los cuestionarios de empoderamiento y de autocuidado. El análisis estadistico fue realizado separadamente por estrategia educativa. Resultados: la media de edad de los usuarios era de 57,8 años (DP = 9,4 años), con participación predominantemente femenina (66,4%). Ambas estrategias presentaron resultados semejantes sobre la adherencia para las prácticas de autocuidado y el empoderamiento del usuario. Se observó también una reducción en los niveles de hemoglobina glicada; sin embargo, apenas en la educación en grupo, la diferencia presentó significancia estadística (p<0,001). Conclusión: las estrategias fueron efectivas; pero, la educación en grupo presentó mejores resultados de control glicémico en relación a la visita domiciliaria. Registro internacional: NCT02132338 y nacional: RBR-92j38t en el registro de ensayos clínicos.

Utilização de serviços de saúde por população quilombola do Sudoeste da Bahia, Brasil / Use of health services by quilombo communities in southwest Bahia State, Brazil / El uso de los servicios de salud por la población quilombola del suroeste de Bahía, Brasil

O uso de serviços de saúde vem aumentando no país, mas permanecem as desigualdades geográficas e sociais, especialmente entre os grupos minoritários. O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar o uso de serviços de saúde pela população quilombola de Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, Brasil. Trata-se de inquérito de saúde transversal, realizado em 2011, com indivíduos quilombolas > 18 anos. A magnitude das associações entre variáveis explanatórias e o uso de serviços foi estimada pelas razões de prevalência obtidas por regressão de Poisson com intervalo de 95% de confiança. Dos 797 indivíduos entrevistados, 455 (57,1%) usaram algum serviço de saúde nos 12 meses anteriores às entrevistas. Verificou-se maiores prevalências de uso de serviços para os quilombolas do sexo feminino, com companheiros(as), que avaliaram sua saúde como regular, ruim ou muito ruim, cadastrados no Programa Saúde da Família e que fizeram referência a um serviço de saúde de uso regular. Os resultados apontaram subutilização de serviços de saúde pelos quilombolas, demonstrando a necessidade de melhorar a prestação de serviços de saúde a essa população.

Use of health services is increasing in Brazil as a whole, but geographic and social inequalities persist, especially among minority groups. The aim of this study was to analyze the use of health services by members of quilombos (slavedescendant African-Brazilian communities) in Vitória da Conquista, Bahia State, Brazil. This cross-sectional health survey in 2011 focused on 797 adults (> 18 years old) belonging to quilombos. The magnitude of the associations between explanatory variables and use of services was estimated by the prevalence ratio obtained from Poisson regression with 95% confidence interval. Of the total sample, 455 (57.1%) reported having used health services in the 12 months prior to the interview. Higher rates of health services utilization were associated with female gender, non-single conjugal status, fair, poor, or very poor self-rated health, enrolment in the Family Health Program, and referral to a health facility for regular or on-going care. The results showed underutilization of health services by members of quilombos, thus demonstrating the need to improve health services provision for this population group.

El uso de los servicios de salud está aumentando en el país, pero se mantienen las desigualdades geográficas y sociales, especialmente, en los grupos minoritarios. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar el uso de los servi-cios de salud por la población quilombola de Vitória da Conquista, en el Estado de Bahía, Brasil. Se trata de una encuesta de salud transversal realizada en 2011, con las personas quilombolas > 18 años. Con la magnitud de las asociaciones entre las variables explicativas y el uso de los servicios se calcularon las razones de prevalencia, obtenidas por regresión de Poisson, con un intervalo de un 95% de confianza. De las 797 personas entrevistadas, 455 (57,1%) habían utilizado los servicios de salud en los 12 meses anteriores a la entrevista. Hubo una mayor prevalencia de uso de los servicios para las mujeres quilombolas con pareja, que calificaron su salud como regular, mala o muy mala, inscritos en el Programa de Salud de la Familia y se designó un servicio de salud de uso regular. Los resultados apuntaron la subutilización de los servicios de salud por los quilombos.

Construção de tábuas de mortalidade de inválidos por meio de modelos estatísticos bayesianos / Construcción de tablas de mortalidad de inválidos por medio de modelos estadísticos bayesianos / Construction of life boards of invalids using Bayesian statistics

Este trabalho teve como objetivo a construção de tábuas de mortalidade de inválidos dos segurados de clientela urbana do Regime Geral da Previdência Social. Assumindo que o número de mortes em cada idade segue uma distribuição de Poisson, as taxas de mortalidade por idade simples foram graduadas por meio de métodos estatísticos bayesianos, pelo modelo paramétrico de Gompertz-Makehan, utilizando inferência estatística bayesiana. Foram construídas tábuas de mortalidade para homens e mulheres e intervalos de credibilidade para os parâmetros e componentes do modelo, bem como para as taxas de mortalidade e funções da tábua. Uma aplicação foi feita calculando-se uma anuidade e o passivo atuarial.

Este trabajo tuvo como objetivo la construcción de tablas de mortalidad de inválidos procedentes de clientela urbana asegurada con el régimen general de la Seguridad Social. Asumiendo que el número de muertes en cada edad sigue una distribución de Poisson, las tasas de mortalidad por edad simple se graduaron mediante métodos estadísticos bayesianos, por el modelo paramétrico de Gompertz-Makehan, utilizando la inferencia estadística bayesiana. Se construyeron tablas de mortalidad para hombres y mujeres e intervalos de credibilidad para los parámetros y componentes del modelo, así como para las tasas de mortalidad y funciones de la tabla. Una aplicación se realizó calculando una anualidad y el pasivo actuarial.

The objective of this article is to construct life tables of invalids among urban beneficiaries of the General Regime of the National Brazilian Social Security System. Assuming that the number of deaths in each table follows a Poisson distribution, the death rates by simple age were graduated through Bayesian statistical methods, by using the Gompertz-Makehan parametric model and using Bayesian statistical inferences. Life tables were constructed for death rates of men and women, and credibility intervals were set up for the parameters and components of the model, as well as for the death rates and functions of the board. An application was made by calculating an annuity and the actuarial liabilities.