Machine Translation for Multilingual Cancer Patient Education: Bridging Languages, Navigating Challenges.

This commentary evaluates the use of machine translation for multilingual patienteducation in oncology. It critically examines the balance between technologicalbenefits in language accessibility and the potential for increasing healthcare disparities.The analysis emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach to translation thatincorporates linguistic accuracy, medical clarity, and cultural relevance. Additionally, ithighlights the ethical considerations of digital literacy and access, underscoring theimportance of equitable patient education. This contribution seeks to advance thediscussion on the thoughtful integration of technology in healthcare communication,focusing on maintaining high standards of equity, quality, and patient care.

Interpretation services used for non-English language speaking patients with head and neck cancer: Findings from a tertiary London cancer centre.

Background: Treatment for head and neck cancer (HNC) can lead to profound changes in swallowing function and nutrition. UK HNC standards recommend informational counselling is provided pre-treatment by the dietitian and speech and language therapist (SLT). Non-english speaking patients treated in English speaking countries have poorer treatment outcomes. UK guidance recommends all patients should have access to interpretation services where required. This audit aimed to investigate the language needs and utilisation of interpretation services for patients with HNC attending pre-treatment clinics. Methods: A retrospective casenote audit over two-years (2021-2023) of all patients attending pre-treatment clinics in a centralised London cancer centre. Information was collected from electronic hospital records on demographics, disease/treatment characteristics, first language; categorised as English primary language (EPL), non-English primary language (NEPL) and interpretation requirements; formal (professional interpreters) or informal (patients friends/relatives). Data was processed and collated using Microsoft Excel (Version 2308). Descriptive statistics were conducted using Excel Analysis ToolPak. Results: 408 patients were included. Most patients were male (67%), aged 61 ± 13 years. 18% (n = 74) had NEPL; 58 required interpretation services. Formal interpretation service was provided in 43% (n = 25), informal services in 33% (n = 19), and no service in 24% (n = 14). Non-adherence to formal services included lack of/inaccurate documentation of language needs, patient preference and lack of available interpreters. Conclusion: This audit indicated that barriers exist in utilising formal interpretation services. Future research should investigate how this can be optimised to ensure necessary language support is provided consistent with guidelines that promote equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Knowledge, practice and communication barriers for oncology doctors in Chile when addressing the sexuality of their patients.

Introduction: Communication in a doctor-patient relationship constitutes a crucial aspect in medicine, and its multiple dimensions encompass a wide variety of ethical issues. Communication is particularly relevant in oncology, because it requires continually dealing with sensitive topics in one of the most highly vulnerable situations as a human: illness and proximity to death. Sexuality is one of these topics because it constitutes an area that is frequently affected by cancer and cancer treatment, which may include causing significant distress, the reinforcement of a negative self-image, relationship conflicts and a permanent memory of having cancer. The objective of this research is to describe the perception of knowledge and communications practices used by oncology doctors with respect to sexual health in the care of their patients, as well as the barriers found when it comes to confronting the topic. Methods: An exploratory quantitative, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out, in which a self-administered questionnaire was given to oncology doctors who practise in Chile. This questionnaire had 41 closed questions with answers on a Likert scale and was previously validated by being reviewed and applied to a pilot group of five professionals (one medical bioethics expert and four doctors in the field of oncology). The data were analysed with the SPSS statistical program v. 20, using descriptive statistics. Results: The main results show that the surveyed doctors consider sexuality to be an important part of patients' quality of life. However, this finding does not align with the practices given for including it as part of clinical care. The professionals refer as the main barriers those that are attributed to the structural functioning of the institution, giving little value to those barriers related to personal aspects or those associated with patient characteristics and/or behaviors. Conclusion: The results of this study show that, despite oncology doctors seeing sexuality as an important aspect of the quality of life of their patients, they do not include the topic in clinical care. Given that one of the main barriers is obstacles relating to the institution, it is necessary to create political institutions that create the conditions for including this area as a relevant part of cancer patient care.

The effect of limited english proficiency on prostate-specific antigen screening in American men.

PURPOSE: To evaluate how limited English proficiency (LEP) impacts the prevalence of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening in a contemporary, nationally representative cohort of men in the USA. METHODS: The Medical Expenditure Panel Survey was utilized to identify the prevalence of PSA screening between 2013 and 2016 among men ≥ 55. Men who speak a language other than English at home were stratified by self-reported levels of English proficiency (men who speak English very well, well, not well, or not at all). Survey weights were applied, and groups were compared using the adjusted Wald test. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify predictors of PSA screening adjusting for patient-level covariates. RESULTS: The cohort included 2,889 men, corresponding to a weighted estimate of 4,765,682 men. 79.6% of men who speak English very well reported receiving at least one lifetime PSA test versus 58.4% of men who do not speak English at all (p < 0.001). Men who reported not speaking English at all had significantly lower prevalence of PSA screening (aOR 0.56; 95% CI 0.35-0.91; p = 0.019). Other significant predictors of PSA screening included older age, income > 400% of the federal poverty level, insurance coverage, and healthcare utilization. CONCLUSIONS: Limited English proficiency is associated with significantly lower prevalence of PSA screening among men in the USA. Interventions to mitigate disparities in prostate cancer outcomes should account for limited English proficiency among the barriers to guideline-concordant care.

Medidas de proteção contra a COVID-19: impactos comunicativos, sociais e emocionais em usuários de aparelhos de amplificação sonora individual / Protective measures against COVID-19: communicative, social and emotional impacts on hearing aids users

RESUMO Objetivo investigar os impactos comunicativos, sociais e emocionais gerados pela adoção de medidas protetivas contra a COVID-19 e associá-los ao grau da perda auditiva e ao tempo de uso dos aparelhos de amplificação sonora individual. Métodos estudo transversal e quantitativo, com 72 indivíduos, divididos em adultos e idosos, com perda auditiva bilateral, de grau até moderadamente severo, protetizados antes da pandemia em um programa público de saúde auditiva e que mantiveram uso efetivo dos dispositivos. Os sujeitos foram convidados a participar do estudo enquanto aguardavam consulta. Os prontuários foram acessados, a fim de coletar informações sobre o perfil audiológico e adaptação/uso dos aparelhos de amplificação sonora individual. Em sala silenciosa, foi aplicado, oralmente, protocolo contendo questões objetivas e os dados foram tabulados e submetidos aos testes estatísticos Igualdade de Duas Proporções e Qui-Quadrado. Resultados nos dois grupos, um número significativo de usuários teve a comunicação impactada pelo uso de máscaras e pelo distanciamento físico, predominando, entre os adultos, a dificuldade com as tecnologias digitais (celulares/computadores), enquanto nas videochamadas, os prejuízos comunicativos foram mais experenciados pelos idosos. Os empecilhos comunicativos e sociais existiram, independentemente do perfil audiológico e do tempo de uso dos dispositivos. Quando questionados se deixaram de se comunicar e se as medidas afetaram a sua vida social, as respostas ficaram divididas entre "sim/às vezes" e "não". Quanto ao impacto emocional das medidas protetivas, constatou-se maior repercussão entre os adultos. Conclusão as medidas protetivas afetaram a comunicação dos usuários de aparelhos de amplificação sonora individual, porém, não desencorajaram as trocas comunicativas e as interações sociais de, aproximadamente, metade da amostra, sendo o impacto emocional mais evidente nos adultos. Tais dificuldades não estiveram relacionadas ao perfil audiológico e uso diário dos dispositivos.

ABSTRACT Purpose to investigate the communicative, social, and emotional impacts generated by adopting protective measures against COVID-19 and associate them with the degree of hearing loss and the time of use of hearing aids. Methods cross-sectional quantitative study, with 72 individuals, divided into adults and older adults, with bilateral hearing loss up to moderately severe degree, users of hearing aids fitted before the pandemic in a public hearing health program who had maintained effective use of the devices. The participants were invited to participate in the study while waiting for an appointment and signed the consent form. After that, medical records were accessed to collect information about audiological profiles and the fitting/use of hearing aids. Afterward, a protocol with objective questions was orally applied in a silent room. Data were tabulated and subjected to Equality of Two Proportions and Chi-Square statistical tests. Results in both groups, a significant number of users had communication impacted by the use of masks and by social distancing, with difficulty with digital technologies (cell phones/computers) predominating among adults, while older adults more commonly experienced communicative impairments during video calls. The communicative impediment existed regardless of the audiological profile and device use time. When asked if they stopped communicating and if the measures affected their social life, the sample was divided between "yes/sometimes" and "no". As for the emotional impact of protective measures, there was a greater impact among adults. Conclusion protective measures affected the communication of hearing aids users but did not discourage communicative exchanges and social interactions for approximately half of the sample, with the emotional impact being more evident in adults. Such difficulties were not related to the audiological profile and daily use of the devices.

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.

Os impactos da comunicação inadequada na relação médico-paciente / The impacts of inadequate communication on the physician-patient relation

Resumo: Introdução: Como um componente substancial na relação médico-paciente, a comunicação pode ser determinante na construção da hipótese diagnóstica e na adesão ao tratamento por parte do paciente, e, por isso, há a necessidade de compreender os fatores que influenciam no processo comunicativo e descrever a efetividade dele. Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os impactos da comunicação inadequada na relação médico-paciente. Método: Vinte e três pacientes voluntários com a maioridade atingida preencheram questionários de informações socioeconômicas, uso da linguagem e impressões da consulta médica. O médico preencheu um questionário sobre a experiência da consulta. Resultado: Os resultados indicaram que os pacientes apresentaram alguma dificuldade em comunicar ao médico o que sentiam, e, de modo complementar, os médicos, em 20% dos casos, tiveram algum grau de dificuldade de chegar à hipótese diagnóstica a partir do relato do paciente, o que se relaciona com a linguagem pouco descritiva utilizada pela maior parte dos pacientes. Conclusão: Dada a necessidade da qualidade da comunicação entre o médico e o paciente, conhecer os fatores que impactam o processo comunicativo é o primeiro passo para a garantia de um atendimento eficaz com autonomia do paciente e maior adesão ao plano terapêutico.

Abstract: Introduction: As a substantial component of the doctor-patient relationship, communication can be crucial in the construction of a diagnostic hypothesis and patient adherence to treatment. It is therefore necessary to understand the factors that influence the communicative process and describe the effectiveness of the communication. Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the impacts of inadequate communication in the doctor-patient relationship. Method: Twenty-three voluntary patients of legal age completed questionnaires on socioeconomic information, language use, and impressions of the medical consultation. The doctor filled out a questionnaire regarding their experience of the consultation. Result: The results indicated that patients experienced some difficulty in communicating their feelings to the doctor, and furthermore, in 20% of cases, doctors encountered some degree of difficulty in reaching a diagnostic hypothesis based on the patient's report, which is related to the predominantly non-descriptive language used by most patients. Conclusion: Given the need for high quality communication between the doctor and the patient, understanding the factors that impact the communicative process is the first step towards ensuring effective care with patient autonomy and improved adherence to the treatment plan.

Validación transcultural de cuestionario sobre literacidad en salud en el contexto chileno

Objetivos: Validar transculturalmente para contexto chileno, cuestionario en inglés que evalúa competencias comunicacionales empleadas por el odontólogo con sus pacientes. Métodos: Se realizaron seis etapas: traducción, panel de expertos, entrevistas cognitivas, adaptación en línea, método test y re-test, evaluando la consistencia interna y estabilidad, y retrotraducción al inglés. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo de las variables sociodemográficas y un análisis descriptivo de los ítems del cuestionario considerando la media de las puntuaciones, desviación estándar y proporción de respuestas positivas, neutras y negativas. Resultados: 70 participantes contestaron el cuestionario (42 mujeres y 28 hombres, edad promedio 38 años). Las entrevistas cognitivas y comité de expertos permitieron hacer adaptaciones a la cultura chilena. Con respecto a la consistencia interna y estabilidad del cuestionario, el valor obtenido para α-Cronbach fue mayor a 72% y λ-Guttman mayor a 81%. Para la estabilidad del cuestionario el coeficiente de correlación Spearman fue de 72% y los coeficientes de concordancia fueron mayores a 76% (valor-p<0,05). Conclusiones: El cuestionario sobre la literacidad de salud oral en el contexto chileno es válido desde la perspectiva de la adaptación transcultural y confiable desde la perspectiva de la consistencia interna y estabilidad.

Objectives: Transcultural validation of a survey in the Chilean context that assesses communication skills of dentists with patients, from English to Spanish. Methods: The process considered six stages: translation, a panel of experts, cognitive interviews, online adaptation, test and re-test practice to assess internal consistency and stability, and finally, back-translation into English. The method included the analysis of the sociodemographic variables and a descriptive analysis of the questionnaire items, considering the mean of the scores, standard deviation, and proportion of positive, neutral, and negative responses. Results: 70 participants answered the questionnaire (42 women and 28 men, average age 38 years). The cognitive interviews and the suggestions of the panel of experts allowed for some changes to better adapt to the Chilean culture. Regarding the internal consistency and stability of the questionnaire, the value obtained for α-Cronbach was greater than 72% and for λ-Guttman greater than 81%. Furthermore, the Spearman correlation coefficient was 72%, and the concordance coefficients were higher than 76% (p-value <0.05). Conclusions: The questionnaire on health literacy in the Chilean context is valid from the perspective of cross-cultural adaptation and reliable from the internal consistency and stability standpoint.

O que é a ecolalia para o autismo segundo a literatura? / What is echolalia for autism according to the literature?

Objetivo: Descrever, segundo a literatura, a relação entre o Transtorno do Espectro Autista e a ecolalia. Método: Realizou-se uma revisão integrativa da literatura científica na BVS, PubMed e Scielo, utilizando os descritores DECS/MESH "Transtorno do Espectro Autista AND ecolalia" e "Autism Spectrum Disorder AND Echolalia" combinados pelo operador booleano "AND". Resultados: Predominaram estudos qualitativos (35,7%) com baixo nível de evidência (92,8%). A maioria das pesquisas (78,6%) foi conduzida nos Estados Unidos da América em 2021, com participantes de 1 a 40 anos, sendo a ecolalia frequentemente observada em crianças de 2 anos (28,6%). A abordagem ao tratamento da ecolalia foi mencionada em apenas 21,4% dos estudos, destacando métodos comportamentais. Conclusão: A ecolalia, fenômeno persistente no TEA, é uma notável peculiaridade na comunicação verbal, apresentando variações imediatas, tardias e mitigadas. Suas implicações continuam a desafiar o desenvolvimento e as intervenções clínicas.(AU)

Objective: To describe, based on the literature, the relationship between Autism Spectrum Disorder and echolalia. Method: An integrative review of scientific literature was conducted using BVS, PubMed, and Scielo databases, employing the DECS/MESH descriptors "Autism Spectrum Disorder AND echolalia" and "Autism Spectrum Disorder AND Echolalia" combined with the Boolean operator "AND." Results: Qualitative studies predominated (35.7%) with low levels of evidence (92.8%). The majority of research (78.6%) was conducted in the United States in 2021, involving participants aged 1 to 40, with echolalia frequently observed in 2-year-old children (28.6%). The approach to echolalia treatment was mentioned in only 21.4% of the studies, emphasizing behavioral methods. Conclusion: Echolalia, a persistent phenomenon in Autism Spectrum Disorder, represents a notable peculiarity in verbal communication, exhibiting immediate, delayed, and mitigated variations. Its implications continue to challenge development and clinical interventions.(AU)

Objetivo: Describir, según la literatura, la relación entre el Trastorno del Espectro Autista y la ecolalia. Método: Se realizó una revisión integrativa de la literatura científica en las bases de datos BVS, PubMed y Scielo, utilizando los descriptores DECS/MESH "Trastorno del Espectro Autista AND ecolalia" y "Autism Spectrum Disorder AND Echolalia" combinados con el operador booleano "AND". Resultados: Predominaron los estudios cualitativos (35,7%) con un bajo nivel de evidencia (92,8%). La mayoría de las investigaciones (78,6%) se llevaron a cabo en Estados Unidos en 2021, con participantes de 1 a 40 años, siendo la ecolalia observada con frecuencia en niños de 2 años (28,6%). El enfoque para el tratamiento de la ecolalia se mencionó solo en el 21,4% de los estudios, destacando métodos conductuales. Conclusión: La ecolalia, un fenómeno persistente en el Trastorno del Espectro Autista, representa una notable peculiaridad en la comunicación verbal, mostrando variaciones inmediatas, tardías y mitigadas. Sus implicaciones siguen desafiando el desarrollo y las intervenciones clínicas.(AU)

Improving Communication for Surgical Patients With Cancer With Limited English Proficiency.

Understanding disease processes, treatments, and special needs for surgical patients with cancer with limited English proficiency (LEP) can promote safe and accurate care. To ensure healthcare equity for patients at a large c.

La comunicación del riesgo en cirugía: Un proceso por mejorar / Communication of risk in surgery: A process to improve

Introducción. La evaluación del riesgo es fundamental en el éxito quirúrgico. Las perspectivas de los actores involucrados en el proceso de atención deben alinearse con el fin de planear, comunicar y ejecutar adecuadamente las intervenciones necesarias. El objetivo de este escrito fue analizar el riesgo quirúrgico, considerando los posibles factores relacionados con su estimación, comunicación y comprensión en la práctica clínica. Métodos. Análisis crítico y reflexivo de la información disponible, contrastado con la práctica usual. Se hace un ejercicio con situaciones clínicas habituales. Resultados. La complejidad de los pacientes, los recursos, el contexto y la naturaleza de las intervenciones, demandan una aproximación del riesgo implícito de una cirugía con instrumentos evaluativos confiables y reproducibles. Las percepciones por los médicos, pacientes y administradores en salud acerca del impacto de una cirugía difieren según sus intereses. La transmisión de los resultados es un reto ante la asimetría en el conocimiento, la complejidad de los procedimientos y la incertidumbre en los resultados. La comunicación efectiva, como una competencia, se hace altamente pertinente en la actividad del médico. Facilitar la comprensión del mensaje exige una práctica continua y un proceso de mejoramiento adaptado al contexto de la atención en salud. Conclusiones. El riesgo quirúrgico exige una metodología clara y fiable en su evaluación, comunicación y comprensión entre los actores del sistema de salud. Su presencia está asociada a la actividad profesional de los médicos y requiere competencias que permitan un abordaje no lineal del tema. Es una actividad profesional con el fin de mejorar los desenlaces en salud y la calidad de las intervenciones

Introduction. Evaluation of surgical risk is fundamental in surgical success. The perspectives of the actors involved in the care process must be aligned to adequately plan, communicate, and execute the necessary interventions. The aim of this article is to analyze surgical risk, considering possible factors related to its estimation, communication and understanding in clinical practice. Methods. Critical and reflective analysis of the available information, contrasted with the usual practice. An exercise is done with usual clinical situations. Discussion. Complexity of the patients, resources, context, and nature of the interventions demand an approximation of the implicit risk of surgery with reliable and reproducible evaluation instruments. Perceptions by physicians, patients, and health administrators about the impact of surgery differ according to their interests. The transmission of results is a challenge in the face of asymmetry in knowledge, complexity of procedures and uncertainty in results. Effective communication as a competence becomes highly relevant in the physician's activity. Facilitating the understanding of the message requires continuous practice and an improvement process adapted to the context of health care. Conclusions. Surgical risk requires a clear and reliable methodology in its evaluation, communication and understanding among the actors of the health system. Their presence is associated with the professional activity of doctors and requires skills that allow a non-linear approach to the subject. It is a professional activity that must be empowered to improve health outcomes and the quality of interventions.

Navigating Intercultural Medical Encounters: An Examination of Patient-Centered Communication Practices with Italian and Foreign Cancer Patients Living in Italy.

Effective communication is crucial in cancer care due to the sensitive nature of the information and the psychosocial impact on patients and their families. Patient-centered communication (PCC) is the gold standard for providing quality cancer care, as it improves patient satisfaction, treatment adherence, clinical outcomes, and overall quality of life. However, doctor-patient communication can be complicated by ethnic, linguistic, and cultural differences. This study employed the ONCode coding system to investigate PCC practices in oncological visits (doctor's communicative behavior, patient's initiatives, misalignments, interruptions, accountability, and expressions of trust in participants' talk, Markers of uncertainty in doctor's talk, markers of emotions in doctor's talk). Forty-two video-recorded patient-oncologist encounters (with 22 Italian and 20 foreign patients), including both first and follow-up visits, were analyzed. Three discriminant analyses were conducted to assess differences in PCC between patient groups (Italian or foreign patients) according to the type of encounter (first visit or follow-up) and the presence or absence of companions during the encounters. Multiple regression analyses were performed to evaluate the PCC differences by oncologist age, patient age, and patient sex, controlling for the type of encounter, the presence of a companion during the visit, and patient group on ONCode dimensions. No differences were found in PCC by patient group in discriminant analyses and regressions. Doctor communication behavior, interruptions, accountability, and expressions of trust were higher in first visits than in follow-ups. The disparities in PCC were primarily linked to the type of visit and the age of the oncologist. However, a qualitative analysis showed notable differences in the types of interruptions during visits with foreign patients compared to Italian patients. It is essential to minimize interruptions during intercultural encounters to foster a more respectful and conducive environment for patients. Furthermore, even when foreign patients demonstrate sufficient linguistic competence, healthcare providers should not solely rely on this factor to ensure effective communication and quality care.

Attitudes and beliefs of argentinian medical oncologists regarding palliative care referral / Actitudes y creencias de los médicos oncólogos argentinos sobre la derivación a cuidados paliativos

Abstract Introduction: Local evidence suggests insufficient access to palliative care (PC) for advanced cancer patients. The objective was to investigate the attitudes and beliefs of Argentinian medical oncologists regarding PC referral of their patients. Methods: All medical oncologists listed in the main national Clinical Oncology Associations (N = 831) were invited to participate in a telephone survey. Results: Fifty nine percent (N = 489) completed the survey. Most reported being informed about the scopes of PC (83%) and having accessible PC service/specialists (71%). However, 53% did not work collaboratively, and 55% exceptionally or never referred their patients. Oncologists who usually referred their patients did so mainly due to uncontrolled pain (67%) or absence of curative treatment (48%). Only 19% supported early-referral criteria. Those who exception ally referred their patients argued that PC was not meaningful/beneficial/a priority (78%) or that they preferred to handle the patient's problems by themselves (55%). End-of-life care (33%) and improvement in quality of life (32%) were stated as primary benefits of PC for cancer patients. Addressing psychological aspects was consid ered the least important item (2%). Having an accessible PC service (P = 0.002) and being well informed about PC (P = 0.008) were associated with frequent referral. Having ≤10 years or >30 years from graduation were associated with exceptional or no referral (P = 0.012 and 0.001, respectively). Discussion: Oncologists report awareness of the potential advantages of PC and have accessible PC services, but rarely refer patients. They mainly use late-referral criteria. Younger and older age are negatively associated with referral. More research is needed to improve the referral rate and timing of cancer patients to PC.

Resumen Introducción: La evidencia local sugiere un acceso insuficiente a los cuidados paliativos (CP) para los pacien tes con cáncer avanzado. El objetivo fue investigar las actitudes y creencias de médicos oncólogos argentinos respecto de la derivación de sus pacientes a CP. Métodos: Todos los médicos oncólogos registrados en las principales Asociaciones Nacionales de Oncología Clínica (N = 831) fueron invitados a participar en una encuesta telefónica. Resultados: El 59% (N = 489) completó la encuesta. La mayoría informó estar informado sobre los alcances de CP (83%) y tener especialistas/servicios de CP acce sibles (71%). Sin embargo, el 53% no trabajaba de forma colaborativa y el 55% excepcionalmente o nunca derivaba a sus pacientes. Los oncólogos que habi tualmente derivan a sus pacientes lo hacen principalmente por dolor no controlado (67%) o ausencia de trata miento curativo (48%). Solo el 19% mencionó criterios de derivación temprana. Aquellos que excepcionalmente derivan a sus pacientes argumentaron que los CP no era significativos, beneficiosos o prioritarios (78%) o que preferían manejar los problemas del paciente por sí mismos (55%). La atención al final de la vida (33 %) y la mejora de la calidad de vida (32 %) se señalaron como los principales beneficios de los CP para los pacientes con cáncer. El abordaje de los aspectos psicológicos fue el ítem menos señalado (2%). Tener un servicio de CP accesible (P= 0,002) y estar bien informado sobre CP (P = 0,008) se asociaron con la derivación frecuente. Tener ≤10 años o >30 años desde la graduación se asoció con una derivación excepcional o nula (P = 0,012 y 0,001, respectivamente). Discusión: Los oncólogos refieren conocer las ventajas potenciales de los CP y tienen servicios de CP accesibles, pero rara vez derivan pacientes. Utilizan principalmente criterios de derivación tardía. Las edades más jóvenes y mayores se asocian negativamente con la derivación. Se necesita más investigación para mejorar la tasa y momento de derivación de los pacientes con cáncer a CP.

Estratégias de comunicação dos profissionais de saúde com pessoas com deficiência auditiva: revisão integrativa / Communication strategies employed by health professionals with hearing impaired people: an integrative review / Estrategias de comunicación de los profesionales de la salud con las personas con discapacidad auditiva: revisión integradora

RESUMO Objetivo: identificar estudos na literatura científica sobre a comunicação dos profissionais de saúde entre pessoas com deficiência auditiva na prestação do cuidado. Método: revisão integrativa realizada em fevereiro/2021, em 14 bases de dados e busca manual, sem recorte temporal, nos idiomas português, inglês, espanhol, através dos descritores Pessoas com Deficiência Auditiva e Profissionais de Saúde e suas variações, sem delimitação de contexto. A análise dos resultados deu-se pela organização em grupos temáticos conforme sua frequência. Resultados: 16 estudos foram selecionados, destacando-se os resultados: uso da escrita e mímica como principais estratégias de comunicação; falta de qualificação dos profissionais para uma comunicação efetiva, sendo o uso de LIBRAS a forma menos utilizada; e, sentimento de insegurança, bloqueio, incapacidade que profissionais vivenciam na comunicação com pessoas com deficiência auditiva. Conclusão: é necessário investir na qualificação dos profissionais de saúde em LIBRAS tornando a comunicação mais eficaz, contribuindo para a melhoria da prática assistencial.

ABSTRACT Objective: to identify studies in the scientific literature on the communication between health professionals and hearing impaired people during care provision. Method: an integrative review carried out in February 2021 in 14 databases and with manual search, without time frame, in Portuguese, English, Spanish and through the Hearing Impaired People and Health Professionals descriptors and their variations, without context delimitation. The results were analyzed by organizing them into thematic groups according to their frequency. Results: a total of 16 studies were selected, with the following results standing out: use of writing and mimicry as main communication strategies; non-qualification of the professionals for effective communication, with the use of LIBRAS as the least used means; and feelings of insecurity, blockage and disability experienced by the professionals in communicating with hearing impaired people. Conclusion: it is necessary to invest in health professionals' qualification in LIBRAS, making communication more effective and contributing to improvements in the care practice.

RESUMEN Objetivo: identificar estudios en la literatura científica sobre la comunicación entre los profesionales de la salud y las personas con deficiencia auditiva en la prestación de cuidados. Método: revisión integradora realizada en febrero de 2021, en 14 bases de datos y búsqueda manual, sin recorte temporal, en portugués, inglés y español, a través de los descriptores Personas con discapacidad auditiva y Profesionales de la Salud y sus variantes, sin delimitación de contexto. El análisis de los resultados se realizó organizándolos en grupos temáticos en función de la frecuencia. Resultados: Se seleccionaron 16 estudios, se destacaron los resultados: uso de la escritura y la mímica como principales estrategias de comunicación; falta de cualificación de los profesionales para lograr una comunicación efectiva, el LIBRAS es la forma menos utilizada; y, sentimiento de inseguridad, bloqueo, incapacidad que experimentan los profesionales en la comunicación con personas con deficiencia auditiva. Conclusión: es necesario invertir en la capacitación de los profesionales de la salud en LIBRAS para que haya una comunicación más efectiva que contribuya a mejorar la práctica asistencial.

Attitudes and beliefs of Argentinian medical oncologists regarding palliative care referral.

INTRODUCTION: Local evidence suggests insufficient access to palliative care (PC) for advanced cancer patients. The objective was to investigate the attitudes and beliefs of Argentinian medical oncologists regarding PC referral of their patients. METHODS: All medical oncologists listed in the main national Clinical Oncology Associations (N = 831) were invited to participate in a telephone survey. RESULTS: Fifty nine percent (N = 489) completed the survey. Most reported being informed about the scopes of PC (83%) and having accessible PC service/specialists (71%). However, 53% did not work collaboratively, and 55% exceptionally or never referred their patients. Oncologists who usually referred their patients did so mainly due to uncontrolled pain (67%) or absence of curative treatment (48%). Only 19% supported early-referral criteria. Those who exceptionally referred their patients argued that PC was not meaningful/beneficial/a priority (78%) or that they preferred to handle the patient's problems by themselves (55%). End-of-life care (33%) and improvement in quality of life (32%) were stated as primary benefits of PC for cancer patients. Addressing psychological aspects was considered the least important item (2%). Having an accessible PC service (P = 0.002) and being well informed about PC (P = 0.008) were associated with frequent referral. Having =10 years or >30 years from graduation were associated with exceptional or no referral (P = 0.012 and 0.001, respectively). DISCUSSION: Oncologists report awareness of the potential advantages of PC and have accessible PC services, but rarely refer patients. They mainly use late-referral criteria. Younger and older age are negatively associated with referral. More research is needed to improve the referral rate and timing of cancer patients to PC.

Introducción: La evidencia local sugiere un acceso insuficiente a los cuidados paliativos (CP) para los pacientes con cáncer avanzado. El objetivo fue investigar las actitudes y creencias de médicos oncólogos argentinos respecto de la derivación de sus pacientes a CP. Métodos: Todos los médicos oncólogos registrados en las principales Asociaciones Nacionales de Oncología Clínica (N = 831) fueron invitados a participar en una encuesta telefónica. Resultados: El 59% (N = 489) completó la encuesta. La mayoría informó estar informado sobre los alcances de CP (83%) y tener especialistas/servicios de CP acce sibles (71%). Sin embargo, el 53% no trabajaba de forma colaborativa y el 55% excepcionalmente o nunca derivaba a sus pacientes. Los oncólogos que habitualmente derivan a sus pacientes lo hacen principalmente por dolor no controlado (67%) o ausencia de tratamiento curativo (48%). Solo el 19% mencionó criterios de derivación temprana. Aquellos que excepcionalmente derivan a sus pacientes argumentaron que los CP no era significativos, beneficiosos o prioritarios (78%) o que preferían manejar los problemas del paciente por sí mismos (55%). La atención al final de la vida (33 %) y la mejora de la calidad de vida (32 %) se señalaron como los principales beneficios de los CP para los pacientes con cáncer. El abordaje de los aspectos psicológicos fue el ítem menos señalado (2%). Tener un servicio de CP accesible (P= 0,002) y estar bien informado sobre CP (P = 0,008) se asociaron con la derivación frecuente. Tener =10 años o >30 años desde la graduación se asoció con una derivación excepcional o nula (P = 0,012 y 0,001, respectivamente). Discusión: Los oncólogos refieren conocer las ventajas potenciales de los CP y tienen servicios de CP accesibles, pero rara vez derivan pacientes. Utilizan principalmente criterios de derivación tardía. Las edades más jóvenes y mayores se asocian negativamente con la derivación. Se necesita más investigación para mejorar la tasa y momento de derivación de los pacientes con cáncer a CP.

O impacto da deficiência auditiva nas relações familiares de escolares usuários de dispositivos eletrônicos de amplificação sonora / The impact of hearing impairment on family relationships of schoolchildren who use individual sound amplification devices

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar o impacto do diagnóstico da deficiência auditiva nas relações familiares de escolares usuários de dispositivos eletrônicos de amplificação sonora. Métodos A amostra foi composta por 26 pais de escolares com deficiência auditiva, usuários de dispositivos eletrônicos de amplificação sonora, com idades entre 4 e 14 anos, atendidos em um Programa de Saúde Auditiva público. Os pais responderam a um questionário objetivo, elaborado pelas autoras, sem validação prévia, com sete perguntas sobre a temática. Realizou-se análise estatística inferencial sempre que possível. Resultados A maioria dos pais não relatou ter apresentado dificuldades pessoais e/ou desgaste nas relações familiares com seus filhos deficientes auditivos. Não foi encontrada associação entre grau da deficiência auditiva e dificuldade de comunicação em ambos os grupos familiares. Também não se observou associação entre modalidade linguística e dificuldade de comunicação nos dois grupos, apesar de as respostas do grupo familiar mais amplo não terem sido tão unânimes como as do grupo familiar principal. Conclusão Os pais não relataram impacto significativo entre as relações familiares e a comunicação com seus filhos com deficiência auditiva, usuários de dispositivos eletrônicos de amplificação sonora, independentemente do grau da deficiência auditiva e da modalidade linguística. No grupo familiar mais amplo, também não houve associação importante entre grau da deficiência auditiva ou a modalidade linguística utilizada e dificuldade de comunicação entre a criança e a família, mesmo com respostas mais heterogêneas do que no grupo familiar principal.

ABSTRACT Purpose To analyze the impact of the diagnosis of hearing loss on the family relationships of schoolchildren who use hearing aids. Methods The sample consisted of 26 parents from schools with hearing aid hearing aid users aged between 4 and 14 years, assisted in a public Hearing Health Program. Parents responded to an objective, prepared by the authors without prior validation, with seven questions on the subject. Inferential statistical analysis was performed whenever possible. Results Most parents do not report having had personal difficulties and/or strain in family relationships with their hearing-impaired child. No association was found between the degree of hearing loss and the communication difficulties between both family groups. There was also no association between language modality and communication difficulty between the two groups, although in the broader family group the responses were not as unanimous as in the main family group. Conclusion Parents did not report a significant impact on family relationships and communication with their children with hearing loss who use hearing aids, regardless of the degree of hearing impairment and language modality. Among the broader family group, there was also no significant association between the degree of hearing impairment or the language modality used and communication difficulties between the child and the family, even with more heterogeneous responses than in the main family group.

Conhecimento e comportamentos de pessoas surdas em relação às infecções sexualmente transmissíveis / Conocimiento y conductas de personas sordas en relación a las infecciones de transmisión sexual / Knowledge and behaviors of deaf people in relation to sexually transmitted infections

Objetivo: identificar o conhecimento e os comportamentos de risco para infecções sexualmente transmissíveis em pessoas surdas. Método: estudo transversal realizado com 110 pessoas surdas residentes no noroeste do Paraná, selecionadas com a técnica da bola de neve. Os dados foram coletados mediante instrumento estruturado e submetidos à análise estatística descritiva e inferencial (uso de regressão logística múltipla). Resultados: a maioria possuía pouca informação sobre as formas de transmissão e prevenção das infecções sexualmente transmissíveis (menos de 40% de acertos em relação a hepatite, a gonorreia e a sífilis, sendo que 20,9% já teve sintoma de infecção sexualmente transmissível). Nove dos 26 que tiveram relação sexual casual não usaram preservativo. Pessoas bilíngues bimodal apresentaram mais chance de conhecer formas de transmissão e prevenção das infecções sexualmente transmissíveis e ter comportamentos sexuais seguros. Considerações finais: os surdos em estudo demonstraram pouco conhecimento sobre as formas de transmissão e prevenção de infecções sexualmente transmissíveis, o que constitui desafio para os profissionais de saúde.

Objetivo: identificar los conocimientos y las conductas de riesgo en relación con las infecciones de transmisión sexual en personas sordas. Método: estudio transversal realizado con 110 personas sordas que viven en el noroeste do Paraná, seleccionadas mediante la técnica de la bola de nieve. Los datos se recolectaron mediante un instrumento estructurado y se los sometió a análisis estadístico descriptivo e inferencial (uso de regresión logística múltiple). Resultados: la mayoría poseía escasa información sobre las formas de transmisión y prevención de las infecciones de transmisión sexual (menos de 40% de respuestas correctas con respecto a hepatitis, gonorrea y sífilis, donde el 20,9% ya presentó algún síntoma de una infección de transmisión sexual). Nueve de los 26 participantes que tuvieron relaciones sexuales casuales utilizaron preservativos. Las personas bilingües bimodales presentaron mayor probabilidad de conocer formas de transmisión y prevención de las infecciones de transmisión sexual y de realizar conductas sexuales seguras. Consideraciones finales: las personas sordas incluidas en el estudio demostraron tener escasos conocimientos sobre las formas de transmisión y prevención de infecciones de transmisión sexual, lo que representa un desafío para los profesionales de la salud.

Objective: To identify the knowledge and risk behaviors for sexually transmitted infections among deaf people. Method: A cross-sectional study conducted with 110 deaf individuals living in northeastern Paraná, selected by means of the snowball technique. The data were collected by means of a structured instrument and submitted to descriptive and inferential analysis (use of multiple logistic regression). Results: Most of the participants had limited information on the transmission and prevention means for sexually transmitted infections (less than 40% of correct answers in relation to hepatitis, gonorrhea and syphilis; and 20.9% have already had symptoms of some sexually transmitted infection). Nine of the 26 subjects that had casual sexual relationships did not use condoms. Bimodal bilingual people presented more chances of knowing transmission and prevention means for sexually transmitted infections and of indulging in safe sex behaviors. Final considerations: the deaf people under study showed limited knowledge about the transmission and prevention means for sexually transmitted infections, which represents a challenge for health professionals.

Comparison of Multimodal Strategies to Enhance Recognition of Child Development Milestones among Childcare Providers during a Virtual or In-person Conference / Comparación de estrategias multimodales para mejorar el reconocimiento de los hitos del desarrollo infantil entre los proveedores de servicios de guardería durante una conferencia virtual o presencial / Comparação de estratégias multimodais para melhorar o reconhecimento de indicadores de desenvolvimento infantil entre o pessoal encargado do cuidado das crianças durante conferência virtual ou presencial

Introduction: Evaluations of knowledge obtained during conferences, whether in person or virtually, are rarely documented, in part because of the complexity of including an assessment, the pretesting involved, confidentiality concerns, and differences among attendees in terms of their education, language, and willingness to be evaluated. Objective: During a conference in the United States, we compared the recognition of developmental milestones using two different multimodal communication strategies (video vs. oral presentation) among three groups of childcare providers. Methods: Cross-sectional study with repeated measures. One hour before the conference completion, two groups (one virtual and one in-person) received an 8-minute multimodal presentation on child developmental milestones at 4 months (cartoon video); a control group, during the face-to-face conference, received an 8-minute multimedia presentation (oral via PowerPoint) on child developmental milestones at 4 months. The three groups responded twice to a scale to measure their recognition of developmental milestones before the lecture began and fifteen minutes before the end of the 2 ½ hours lecture. Results: Attendees, both in person and via the virtual modality, had significantly better recognition of developmental milestones at 4 months of age compared to the control group adjusted for age and education levels. Conclusion: These results suggest the advantages of a multimodal presentation using video versus an oral presentation during lectures to increase recognition of children's developmental milestones, which are complex and varied. Similarly, such a strategy may be effective regardless of the different characteristics related to the educational level or age of the set of participants attending a conference.

Introducción: las evaluaciones de los conocimientos obtenidos durante conferencias, tanto en persona como de forma virtual, rara vez se documentan, en parte debido a la complejidad de incluir una evaluación, las pruebas previas que conlleva, las preocupaciones sobre la confidencialidad y las diferencias entre los asistentes en cuanto a su nivel educativo, lenguaje y disposición a ser evaluados. Objetivo: se comparó el reconocimiento de los indicadores del desarrollo infantil durante una conferencia en los Estados Unidos utilizando dos estrategias de comunicación multimodal diferentes (presentación de vídeo vs. presentación oral) entre tres grupos de personal a cargo del cuidado de los niños. Métodos: estudio transversal con medidas repetidas. Una hora antes de finalizar la conferencia, dos grupos (uno virtual y otro presencial) recibieron una presentación multimodal de 8 minutos sobre los indicadores del desarrollo infantil a los 4 meses (en vídeo con dibujos animados); un grupo de control, durante la conferencia presencial, recibió una presentación multimedia de 8 minutos (oral mediante PowerPoint) sobre los indicadores del desarrollo infantil a los 4 meses. Resultados: los tres grupos respondieron dos veces a una escala para medir el reconocimiento de los indicadores del desarrollo infantil antes de que empezara la conferencia y quince minutos antes de que terminara la conferencia de 2½ horas. Los asistentes, tanto en persona como a través de la modalidad virtual, tuvieron un reconocimiento significativamente mayor de los indicadores del desarrollo infantil a los 4 meses de edad en comparación con el grupo de control, ajustado por edad y niveles de educación. Conclusión: estos resultados sugieren las ventajas de una presentación multimodal con vídeo en comparación con una presentación oral durante las conferencias para aumentar el reconocimiento de los indicadores del desarrollo infantil, que son complejos y variados. Asimismo, dicha estrategia puede ser eficaz independientemente de las diferentes características relacionadas con el nivel educativo o la edad del grupo de participantes que asisten a una conferencia.

ntrodução: as avaliações de conhecimentos obtidos durante conferências, tanto pessoalmente quanto de forma virtual, rara vez são documentadas, em parte, devido à complexidade de incluir uma avaliação, o pré-teste envolvido, questões de confidencialidade e diferenças entre os participantes em termos de nível educacional, linguagem e vontade de ser avaliado. Objetivo: foi comparado o reconhecimento dos indicadores de desenvolvimento infantil durante uma conferencia nos Estados Unidos usando duas estratégias de comunicação multimodal diferentes (apresentação de vídeo versus apresentação oral) em três grupos de pessoal a cargo do cuidado de crianças. Métodos: estudo transversal com medidas repetidas. Uma hora antes de finalizar a conferência, dois grupos (um virtual e outro presencial) receberam apresentação multimodal de 8 minutos sobre os indicadores de desenvolvimento infantil aos 4 meses (em vídeo com quadrinhos animados); um grupo de controle, durante a conferencia presencial, recebeu uma apresentação multimídia de 8 minutos (oral mediante PowerPoint) sobre os indicadores de desenvolvimento infantil aos 4 meses. Resultados: os três grupos responderam duas vezes a uma escala para medir o reconhecimento dos indicadores de desenvolvimento infantil antes de começar a conferencia e quinze minutos antes de terminar a conferencia de 2½ horas. Os assistentes, tanto em pessoa quanto em modalidade virtual, tiveram um reconhecimento significativamente maior dos indicadores de desenvolvimento infantil a 4 meses de idade em comparação com o grupo de controle, ajustado por idade e níveis de educação. Conclusão: estes resultados sugerem as vantagens de uma apresentação multimodal com vídeo em comparação com uma apresentação oral durante as conferencias para aumentar o reconhecimento dos indicadores de desenvolvimento infantil, que são complexos e variados. Mesmo assim, tal estratégia pode ser eficaz independentemente das diferentes caraterísticas relacionadas com o nível educativo ou a idade do grupo de participantes que assistem a uma conferencia.

ICF and perception of functioning according to children/adolescents in follow-up with speech/language disorders / CIF e percepção da funcionalidade segundo crianças/adolescentes em acompanhamento por alterações de fala/linguagem

ABSTRACT Purpose To characterize changes in the functioning aspects, in the perception of children and adolescents with speech and language disorders under speech-language follow-up, using the ICF. Methods Descriptive, analytical and longitudinal research, with a qualitative and quantitative approach, whose sample consisted of 60 children and adolescents: 30 with speech and language disorders and 30 with typical speech and language development. Data collection was carried out in two moments: beginning of the research and six months later. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to the participants, and a medical records analysis was performed. From these data, functioning was classified using he ICF categories. The Wilcoxon test and thematic content analysis were used to compare the interviews. Results The use of ICF allowed characterizing changes resulting from speech-language follow-up. Participants with speech and language disorders presented a decrease in the magnitude of the qualifiers in the categories: articulation and fluency, social relationships, daily activities, engagement in play, people's attitude barriers, and how to handle stress. Conclusion The findings show changes in components of Body Functions, Activities and Participation, and the influence of Environmental Factors after speech-language follow-up, in the perception of the studied group, which brings relevant subsidies for a greater understanding of functioning and therapeutic intervention. The use of the ICF enabled the longitudinal analysis in a biopsychosocial approach, contemplating, in addition to biological aspects, the social impact of speech and language disorders in the lives of these children and adolescents.

RESUMO Objetivo Caracterizar mudanças nos aspectos de funcionalidade, segundo a percepção de crianças e adolescentes com alterações de fala e linguagem em acompanhamento fonoaudiológico, utilizando a Classificação Internacional de Funcionalidade, Incapacidade e Saúde (CIF). Método Pesquisa de delineamento descritivo-analítico, longitudinal e de abordagem qualitativa-quantitativa, cuja amostra se constituiu de 60 crianças e adolescentes: 30 com alteração de fala e linguagem e 30 com desenvolvimento típico de fala. Coleta foi realizada em dois momentos: início da pesquisa e seis meses depois. Foi realizada entrevista com questionário semiestruturado com os participantes, e análise de prontuário. A partir desses dados, a funcionalidade foi caracterizada com as categorias da CIF. Para comparação entre as entrevistas utilizou-se o Teste Wilcoxon e análise de conteúdo temática. Resultados O uso da CIF possibilitou caracterizar mudanças ocorridas com o acompanhamento fonoaudiológico. Os participantes com alterações de fala e linguagem apresentaram diminuição na magnitude dos qualificadores nas categorias de funções de articulação e fluência, relacionamentos sociais, atividades do cotidiano, envolvimento no brincar, atitudes barreiras das pessoas, modo de lidar com o estresse. Conclusão Os achados mostram mudanças nos componentes de Funções do Corpo, Atividades e Participação e a influência dos Fatores Ambientais após o acompanhamento fonoaudiológico na percepção do grupo estudado, o que traz subsídios relevantes quanto à funcionalidade para maior compreensão e intervenção terapêutica. A utilização da CIF possibilitou estudo e análise longitudinal em uma abordagem biopsicossocial, contemplando além dos aspectos biológicos, o impacto social das alterações de fala e linguagem na vida dessas crianças e adolescentes.