Influence of perceived social support and other factors on treatment adherence among adults living with chronic non-communicable diseases in the Ho Municipality of Ghana: A health facility-based cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: In Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), there is a noticeable shift from infectious diseases to chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs) based on recent studies. However, other studies suggest that social support can significantly improve self-care, increase knowledge of disease symptoms, and ultimately increase overall well-being in patients with CNCDs. In this study, we investigated the influence of perceived social support on treatment adherence among adults living with CNCDs in the Ho Municipality. METHODS: This was a health facility-based cross-sectional study among 432 adults living with cancer, diabetes, chronic kidney disease (CKD), stroke, and hypertension in the Ho Municipality of the Volta Region, Ghana. We adopted the Multi-dimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), Medication Adherence Rating Scale and independent items to collect data. Logistic regression models were used to analyze the data with STATA v17.0 at 95% Confidence Intervals with statistical significance set at p<0.05. RESULTS: Majority of the participants (62%) reported high levels of perceived social support. While friends were the main source of support (69.4%), significant others provided the least support (45.4%). Among the dimensions of treatment adherence, participants demonstrated the highest adherence to reviews/check-ups (98.8%), while medication adherence had the highest level of non-adherence (38%). We did not find a significant association between perceived social support and overall treatment adherence, except for individuals with low perceived social support from friends (aOR = 8.58, 95% CI = 4.21,17.52), who were more likely to exhibit high adherence to behavioural and lifestyle recommendations. CONCLUSION: While the majority of respondents reported high perceived social support, there was no significant link between social support and overall treatment adherence. However, individuals with low support from friends showed a notably increased adherence to behavioural and lifestyle recommendations. This underscores the nuanced impact of social support on specific aspects of adherence, highlighting the need for targeted interventions tailored to individual support networks.

Obesity, psychological well-being related measures, and risk of seven non-communicable diseases: evidence from longitudinal studies of UK and US older adults.

BACKGROUND: We examined the role of psychological well-being related measures in explaining the associations between obesity and increased risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs: hypertension, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, cancer, and memory-related disease) in older adults. METHODS: Data were from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA), UK (baseline: Wave 4-2008/2009; n = 8127) and the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), US (baseline: Waves 9 and 10-2008/2010; n = 12,477). Objective body mass index was used to define obesity. A range of psychological well-being related measures (e.g., depressive symptoms, life satisfaction) was available in ELSA (n = 7) and HRS (n = 15), and an index of overall psychological well-being was developed separately in each study. NCDs were from a self-reported doctor diagnosis and/or other assessments (e.g., biomarker data) in both studies; and in ELSA, NCDs from linked hospital admissions data were examined. Longitudinal associations between obesity status, psychological well-being measures, and NCDs were examined using Cox proportional hazard models (individual NCDs) and Poisson regression (a cumulative number of NCDs). Mediation by psychological well-being related measures was assessed using causal mediation analysis. RESULTS: Obesity was consistently associated with an increased prospective risk of hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and a cumulative number of NCDs in both ELSA and HRS. Worse overall psychological well-being (index measure) and some individual psychological well-being related measures were associated with an increased prospective risk of heart disease, stroke, arthritis, memory-related disease, and a cumulative number of NCDs across studies. Findings from mediation analyses showed that neither the index of overall psychological well-being nor any individual psychological well-being related measures explained (mediated) why obesity increased the risk of developing NCDs in both studies. CONCLUSION: Obesity and psychological well-being may independently and additively increase the risk of developing NCDs.

Expectativas en salud de las personas mayores que acuden a la atención primaria / Health expectations of older people attending primary care

INTRODUCCIÓN: Desde la última década se ha evidenciado el aumento de la población de personas mayores en Chile. Muchos de ellos son usuarios regulares del sistema público de salud el cual se caracteriza por entregar una atención de tipo integral. En este sentido, resulta relevante conocer los requerimientos en salud desde la perspectiva de las experiencias de las personas mayores con respecto al uso de este servicio. OBJETIDO: El objetivo de este estudio fue identificar las expectativas de las personas mayores que asisten a los centros de APS. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Este es un estudio cualitativo, descriptivo, donde la muestra fue de 13 personas mayores de 65 años y más, autovalentes, de tres centros APS, los cuales fueron entrevistados mediante instrumento semiestructurado, con análisis cualitativo de datos método que incluyó codificación abierta y focalizada. RESULTADOS: Las expectativas de las personas mayores fueron categorizadas como requerimiento de una atención profesional integral, oportunidad de atención, accesibilidad de la atención, promoción de salud sobre el autocuidado, explicación de cambios en el envejecimiento con enfoque biológico y alfabetización en salud. CONCLUSIONES: Las expectativas de las personas mayores en este estudio dan cuenta de una atención profesional integral poco efectiva, además de la necesidad de un trato especializado al grupo poblacional específico, no sólo de los profesionales, sino también del personal administrativo de los centros de APS, considerándolos una barrera en la calidad de la atención.

INTRODUCTION: Since the last decade there has been evidence of an increase in the population of older people in Chile. Many of them are regular users of the public health system (PHS) which is characterized by providing comprehensive care. In this sense, it is relevant to know the health requirements from the perspective of the experiences of the older people regarding the use of this health service. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to identify the needs and expectations of older people attending PHS centers. MATERIAL AND METHODS: It were a qualitative and descriptive study. The sample was compounded by 13 people over 65 years and over, self-sufficient, from three PHS centers. It was used a semi-structured instrument. RESULTS: The main needs of the elderly were categorized as a requirement for comprehensive professional care, the opportunity for care, accessibility of care, health promotion on self-care, explanation of changes in aging with a biological focus and health literacy. CONCLUSIONS: The needs and expectations of the older people in this study account for an ineffective comprehensive professional care, in addition to the need for specialized treatment of the specific population group, not only of professionals but also of the administrative staff of the centers of PHS, considering them a barrier in the quality of care.

Domínios analisados na avaliação da resiliência em indivíduos com doenças cardiovasculares crônicas: revisão de escopo / Domains analyzed in the assessment of resilience in individuals with chronic cardiovascular diseases: a scoping review / Dominios analizados en la evaluación de la resiliencia en individuos con enfermedades cardiovasculares crónicas: revisión de escopo

OBJETIVO: Mapear as evidências científicas sobre os instrumentos utilizados na avaliação da resiliência em indivíduos adultos com doenças cardiovasculares crônicas e explorar seus domínios. MÉTODO: Revisão de escopo para responder à questão: Quais os instrumentos ou questionários utilizados para avaliação da resiliência em indivíduos adultos com doenças cardiovasculares crônicas? Foi realizada pesquisa nas bases de dados LILACS, Scopus, Web of Science, Pubmed, CINAHL e literatura cinzenta. Os estudos foram adicionados ao gerenciador Mendeley e a seleção realizada por dois revisores independentes (Kappa=0.86). RESULTADOS: Foram identificados 164 estudos e incluídos 14, sendo utilizados seis instrumentos para avaliação da resiliência. A avaliação da resiliência ocorreu em indivíduos com cardiopatia isquêmica, infarto do miocárdio, acidente vascular cerebral e insuficiência cardíaca. CONCLUSÃO: Os instrumentos não são adaptados para uso em indivíduos com doenças cardiovasculares crônicas. Faz-se necessária a formulação de instrumentos específicos que contemplem domínios individuais, mas que considerem o contexto social deste indivíduo.

OBJECTIVE: To map the scientific evidence on the instruments used to assess resilience in adult individuals with chronic cardiovascular disease, and explore their domains. METHOD: A scoping review to meet the question: What are the instruments or questionnaires used to assess resilience in adult individuals with chronic cardiovascular disease? The search was conducted in LILACS, Scopus, Web of Science, Pubmed, CINAHL databases and the grey literature. Studies were uploaded to Mendeley and the selection was performed by two independent reviewers (Kappa=0.86). RESULTS: A total of 164 studies were identified and 14 were included; six instruments were used to assess resilience. The resilience assessment occurred in individuals with ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction, stroke, and heart failure. CONCLUSION: The instruments were not adapted for use in individuals with chronic cardiovascular diseases. The development of specific instruments that include individual domains and consider the social context of these individuals is necessary.

OBJETIVO: Mapear la evidencia científica sobre los instrumentos utilizados para evaluar la resiliencia en adultos con enfermedades cardiovasculares crónicas y explorar sus dominios. MÉTODO: Revisión de escopo para responder a la pregunta: ¿Que instrumentos o cuestionarios se utilizan para evaluar la resiliencia en personas adultas con enfermedades cardiovasculares crónicas? Se realizó una búsqueda en las bases de datos LILACS, Scopus, Web of Science, Pubmed, CINAHL y literatura gris. Los estudios fueron agregados al medidor Mendeley y la selección fue realizada por dos revisores independientes (Kappa=0.86). RESULTADOS: Se identificaron 164 estudios y se incluyeron 14, utilizando seis instrumentos para evaluar la resiliencia. La evaluación de la resiliencia se llevó a cabo en personas con cardiopatía isquémica, infarto del miocardio, accidente vascular cerebral e insuficiencia cardíaca. CONCLUSIÓN: Los instrumentos no están adaptados para su uso en personas con enfermedades cardiovasculares crónicas. Es necesario formular instrumentos específicos que contemplen dominios individuales, pero que consideren el contexto social de este individuo.

A relação entre hipertensão arterial, ansiedade e estresse: uma revisão integrativa da literatura / La relación entre hipertensión arterial, ansiedad y estrés: una revisión bibliográfica integrativa / The relationship of high blood pressure, anxiety and stress: an integrative literature review

RESUMO. Este estudo teve por objetivo realizar uma revisão integrativa de literatura para verificar o que os estudos têm abordado sobre a relação entre estresse e ansiedade em pessoas hipertensas. Para tanto, o levantamento dos estudos foi realizado nas bases PsycINFO, Portal da Capes, Scielo e Medline BVS-PSI, utilizando os descritores 'hipertensão arterial' and 'estresse' and 'ansiedade', e seus correspondentes na língua inglesa 'arterial hypertension' and 'stress' and 'anxiety' e espanhola 'hipertensión' and 'estrés' and 'ansiedad', considerando os últimos seis anos (2013 a 2018). Foram selecionados 14 estudos. Os resultados foram agrupados em três categorias: a) o impacto causado pelo diagnóstico de doenças crônicas não transmissíveis, b) fatores psicológicos associados à hipertensão arterial e c) relação saúde física versus saúde mental: uma questão também de método. Os resultados mostraram que ansiedade e estresse, além da depressão podem apresentar-se como aspectos moduladores da hipertensão arterial. Portanto, considera-se necessária a desmistificação da lógica cartesiana entre mente e corpo, para que sejam efetivadas ações de cuidado integral dos sujeitos e de promoção à saúde. Espera-se que os resultados obtidos reafirmem a importância de considerar os aspectos psicológicos e emocionais nas doenças crônicas e que estudos futuros com diferentes delineamentos sejam desenvolvidos na área da psicologia.

RESUMEN. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo realizar una revisión bibliográfica integradora para verificar lo que los estudios han abordado sobre la relación entre estrés y ansiedad en personas hipertensas. Para ello, el levantamiento de los estudios fue realizado en las bases PsycINFO, Portal da Capes, Scielo y Medline BVS-PSI, utilizando los descriptores 'hipertensión arterial' y 'estrés' y 'ansiedad', y sus correspondientes en la lengua inglesa 'arterial hipertension' y 'ansiedad' y 'ansiedad', considerando los últimos seis años (2013 a 2018). Se seleccionaron 14 estudios. Los resultados fueron agrupados en tres categorías: a) el impacto causado por el diagnóstico de enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles, b) factores psicológicos asociados a la hipertensión arterial y c) Relación entre salud física y mental: una cuestión también de método. Los resultados mostraron que la ansiedad y el estrés, además de la depresión pueden presentarse como aspectos moduladores de la arterial hipertension. Por lo tanto, se considera necesaria la desmistificación de la lógica cartesiana entre mente y cuerpo, para que se efectúen acciones de cuidado integral de los sujetos y de promoción a la salud. Se espera que los resultados obtenidos reafirmen la importancia de considerar los aspectos psicológicos y emocionales en las enfermedades crónicas, y que estudios futuros con diferentes delineamientos se desarrollen en las demas áreas de salud, ademas del área médica.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to conduct an integrative literature review to verify which studies addressed the relationship between stress and anxiety in hypertensive patients. To do so, the study was carried out at the bases PsycINFO, Portal da Capes, Scielo and Medline BVS-PSI, using the descriptors 'arterial hypertension' and 'stress' and 'anxiety', and their correspondents in the English language 'arterial hypertension' and 'stress' and 'anxiety' and Spanish 'hypertension' and 'anxiety', considering the last six years (2013 to 2018). The results were grouped into three categories: a) The impact caused by the diagnosis of chronic non communicable diseases, b) Psychological factors associated with arterial hypertension and c) Deconstructing the dichotomy: physical health vs. mental health. The search resulted in the inclusion of 14 empirical studies. The results showed that anxiety and stress, in addition to depression, may present as modulatory aspects of arterial hypertension. Therefore, it is considered necessary the demystification of the cartesian logic between mind and body, so that actions of integral care of the subjects and promotion of health are carried out. It is hoped that the results obtained reaffirm the importance of considering the psychological and emotional aspects in chronic diseases, and that future studies with different designs be developed in the other areas of health, besides the medical area.

Non-Communicable Diseases-Related Stigma: A Mixed-Methods Systematic Review.

This systematic review examines and consolidates existing evidence on stigma associated with the top four non-communicable diseases (NCDs)-cancers, cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes-and its impact on the lives of people affected. We conducted a systematic literature search in PubMed, PsycINFO, JSTOR, Science Direct, and Web of Science for original research in English that explored health-related stigma among people living with either of the four NCDs. A three-step integrative synthesis of data was conducted. Twenty-six articles (qualitative = 15; quantitative = 11) were selected, with most (n = 15) related to cancers, followed by diabetes (n = 7), chronic respiratory diseases (n = 3), and cardiovascular diseases (n = 1). Blame, shame, and fear were the main causes of stigma, the origin and nature of which differed according to the disease-specific features. The manifestations (enacted and felt stigma) and consequences (social, behavioral, psychological, and medical) of stigma across NCDs were similar. Inconsistencies existed in the conceptualization of stigma processes. To fill this gap, we developed an NCD-related stigma framework. People living with NCDs can experience stigma, which can negatively impact their health, management of their disease, and quality of life. The new framework can help in improving the understanding of the processes and experiences of stigma related to NCDs.

Behavioural activation therapy for depression in adults with non-communicable diseases.

BACKGROUND: Depression is common in people with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory conditions. The co-existence of depression and NCDs may affect health behaviours, compliance with treatment, physiological factors, and quality of life. This in turn is associated with worse outcomes for both conditions. Behavioural activation is not currently indicated for the treatment of depression in this population in the UK, but is increasingly being used to treat depression in adults. OBJECTIVES: To examine the effects of behavioural activation compared with any control group for the treatment of depression in adults with NCDs. To examine the effects of behavioural activation compared with each control group separately (no treatment, waiting list, other psychological therapy, pharmacological treatment, or any other type of treatment as usual) for the treatment of depression in adults with NCDs. SEARCH METHODS: We searched CCMD-CTR, CENTRAL, Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, four other databases, and two trial registers on 4 October 2019 to identify randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of behavioural activation for depression in participants with NCDs, together with grey literature and reference checking. We applied no restrictions on date, language, or publication status to the searches. SELECTION CRITERIA: We included RCTs of behavioural activation for the treatment of depression in adults with one of four NCDs: cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory conditions. Only participants with a formal diagnosis of both depression and an NCD were eligible. Studies were included if behavioural activation was the main component of the intervention. We included studies with any comparator that was not behavioural activation, and regardless of reported outcomes. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane, including independent screening of titles/abstracts and full-text manuscripts, data extraction, and risk of bias assessments in duplicate. Where necessary, we contacted study authors for more information. MAIN RESULTS: We included two studies, contributing data from 181 participants to the analyses. Both studies recruited participants from US hospital clinics; one included people who were recovering from a stroke and the other women with breast cancer. For both studies, the intervention consisted of eight weeks of face-to-face behavioural therapy, with one study comparing to poststroke treatment as usual and the other comparing to problem-solving therapy. Both studies were at risk of performance bias and potential conflict of interest arising from author involvement in the development of the intervention. For one study, risks of selection bias and reporting bias were unclear and the study was judged at high risk of attrition bias. Treatment efficacy (remission) was greater for behavioural activation than for comparators in the short term (risk ratio (RR) 1.53, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.98 to 2.38; low-certainty evidence) and medium term (RR 1.76, 95% CI 1.01 to 3.08; moderate-certainty evidence), but these estimates lacked precision and effects were reduced in the long term (RR 1.42, 95% CI 0.91 to 2.23; moderate-certainty evidence). We found no evidence of a difference in treatment acceptability in the short term (RR 1.81, 95% CI 0.68 to 4.82) and medium term (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.25 to 3.10) (low-certainty evidence). There was no evidence of a difference in depression symptoms between behavioural activation and comparators (short term: MD -1.15, 95% CI -2.71 to 0.41; low-certainty evidence). One study found no difference for quality of life (short term: MD 0.40, 95% CI -0.16 to 0.96; low-certainty evidence), functioning (short term: MD 2.70, 95% CI -6.99 to 12.39; low-certainty evidence), and anxiety symptoms (short term: MD -1.70, 95% CI -4.50 to 1.10; low-certainty evidence). Neither study reported data on adverse effects. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Evidence from this review was not sufficient to draw conclusions on the efficacy and acceptability of behavioural activation for the treatment of depression in adults with NCDs. A future review may wish to include, or focus on, studies of people with subthreshold depression or depression symptoms without a formal diagnosis, as this may inform whether behavioural activation could be used to treat mild or undiagnosed (or both) depressive symptoms in people with NCDs. Evidence from low-resource settings including low- and middle-income countries, for which behavioural activation may offer a feasible alternative to other treatments for depression, would be of interest.

An international, Delphi consensus study to identify priorities for methodological research in behavioral trials in health research.

BACKGROUND: Non-communicable chronic diseases are linked to behavioral risk factors (including smoking, poor diet and physical inactivity), so effective behavior change interventions are needed to improve population health. However, uptake and impact of these interventions is limited by methodological challenges. We aimed to identify and achieve consensus on priorities for methodological research in behavioral trials in health research among an international behavioral science community. METHODS: An international, Delphi consensus study was conducted. Fifteen core members of the International Behavioral Trials Network (IBTN) were invited to generate methodological items that they consider important. From these, the research team agreed a "long-list" of unique items. Two online surveys were administered to IBTN members (N = 306). Respondents rated the importance of items on a 9-point scale, and ranked their "top-five" priorities. In the second survey, respondents received feedback on others' responses, before rerating items and re-selecting their top five. RESULTS: Nine experts generated 144 items, which were condensed to a long-list of 33 items. The four most highly endorsed items, in both surveys 1 (n = 77) and 2 (n = 57), came from two thematic categories:"Intervention development" ("Specifying intervention components" and "Tailoring interventions to specific populations and contexts") and "Implementation" ("How to disseminate behavioral trial research findings to increase implementation" and "Methods for ensuring that behavioral interventions are implementable into practice and policy"). "Development of novel research designs to test behavioral interventions" also emerged as a highly ranked research priority. CONCLUSIONS: From a wide array of identified methodological issues, intervention development, implementation and novel research designs are key themes to drive the future behavioral trials' research agenda. Funding bodies should prioritize these issues in resource allocation.

Suicidabilidad y apoyo social percibido en estudiantes universitarios con enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles / Suicidality and perceived social support in university students with chronic non-communicable diseases

Resumen El objetivo fue identificar las asociaciones entre apoyo social percibido, riesgo suicida y presencia de enfermedad crónica no transmisible en estudiantes universitarios. Utilizando un diseño de casos y controles, con 41 estudiantes universitarios por grupo. La mediana de edad fue de 22 años (R = 9), un 81,8% eran mujeres, el 26,8% de los sujetos tenía Asma y el 26,8% Hipotiroidismo, y el 63,6% pertenecía a la Facultad de Educación. No se comprobó la asociación entre enfermedad crónica, apoyo social, ni tampoco con riesgo suicida. Hay asociación indirecta entre riesgo suicida y apoyo social, no así cuando se evalúa el intento de suicidio previo. El nivel de riesgo suicida y apoyo social se asocian independiente de la presencia de enfermedad crónica. Esperamos que nuestros resultados permitan fomentar el apoyo social como una herramienta fundamental para la prevención de la suicidabilidad, especialmente en sujetos con enfermedad crónica.

Abstract The objective was to identify associations between perceived social support, suicidal risk and the presence of chronic or communicable disease in university students. Using a case-control design, consisting of 41 subjects in each group. The median age was 22 years (R = 9), 81,8% were women, 26,8% of the subjects had asthma and 26,8% had hypothyroidism, 63,6% were students of the faculties of Education. The association between chronic disease and social support was not proven, nor was there a suicidal risk. There is an indirect association between suicide risk and social support, not so when assessing the previous suicide attempt. The levels of suicide risk and social support are associated, independent of an existing chronic disease. We are hopeful that our results will be effective in promoting social support as a basic tool for suicide prevention, especially in subjects with chronic disease.

Factors influencing physical inactivity among adults in Negeri Sembilan, Peninsular Malaysia.

BACKGROUND: Physical inactivity remains the most important modifiable risk factor in preventing a variety of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and has been identified to be a risk factor for obesity, heart disease and cancers. This study examined the prevalence and factors associated with physical inactivity among the suburban adult population in Port Dickson district, Negeri Sembilan, Peninsular Malaysia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a community based crosssectional study involving 397 adult respondents conducted in February 2016. Data was collected by face-to-face interview using a structured questionnaire. Data regarding socio-demographic factors (age, gender, ethnicity, education level, marital status and monthly income, working hours), current behavioural stage of physical activity and perceived benefits and barriers to physical activity were collected. Physical activity measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) with the cut-off point of less than 600 met-min per week was considered to be physically inactive. RESULTS: The prevalence of physical inactivity among adult population was 36.3%. Factors significantly associated with physical inactivity included age, gender, marital status, working hours and current behavioural stage of physical activity. CONCLUSION: Physical inactivity is high among the adult community in Negeri Sembilan district, Peninsular Malaysia and was strongly associated with age, gender, marital status, working hours and current behavioural stage of physical activity. It is important to identify individuals with physical inactivity and its associated factors early as this could severely affect the quality of life of the individuals.

Behavioral and biological risk factors of noncommunicable diseases among tribal adults of rural siliguri in Darjeeling District, West Bengal: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: The increasing burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) urges continuous survey of risk factors in different population groups. Objectives: The study was conducted to assess the prevalence and determinants of behavioral and biological risk factors of NCDs, in rural tribal population. METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2014 to May 2015, in rural Siliguri, among 172 tribal people aged 25-64 years selected by multistage cluster random sampling using WHO-STEPS instrument. Study participants were interviewed for sociodemographic and behavioral risk factors, and biological measurements were taken. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were performed to explore the determinants of risk factors. RESULTS: Among the study participants, the prevalence of current tobacco use and alcohol use were 69.8% and 40.7%, respectively; 96.5% consumed unhealthy diet and 2.9% were physically inactive. The prevalence of abdominal obesity and overweight were 26.2% and 12.2%, respectively. Odds of tobacco use were significantly raised among men (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 47.7 [95% confidence interval (CI) 11.1, 203.9]) and increased age of the participants. Men showed higher odds of alcohol consumption (AOR: 13.4 [95% CI 4.6, 38.9]). Odds of abdominal obesity were higher among older participants, whereas lower odds were found among men (AOR: 95% CI 0.11 [0.0, 0.5]) compared to women. CONCLUSIONS: Most of the behavioral and biological risk factors of NCDs were quite high among tribal population of rural Siliguri except physical inactivity. Increasing awareness about NCDs through locally accepted and culturally appropriate strategies need to be implemented in the study area.

Clusters of risk behaviors for noncommunicable diseases in the Brazilian adult population.

OBJECTIVES: To identify clusters of risk behaviors among Brazilian adults, by sex, and to associate clusters with sociodemographic factors and self-perception of health. METHODS: We assessed 46,785 adults from the Brazilian National Health Survey. The risk behaviors were low consumption of fruits and vegetables-LFV (< 5 times/week), physical inactivity-PI (< 150 min/week), smoking (yes/no) and excessive consumption of alcohol-EA (5 doses for male, 4 doses for female). We used Venn diagram, cluster analysis and multinomial regression models. RESULTS: We found 9 clusters. The cluster of four risk behaviors was more common in males (3.2% vs. 0.83%). Despite a greater potential for aggregation of behaviors in females (O/E = 2.48) than in males (O/E = 1.62), the women were less likely to have all risk behaviors jointly (OR 0.24, 95% CI 0.19; 0.31), and this was found for the other clusters. In general, Brazilian black/brown, younger, with low education level and who had a self-perception of bad health, were more likely to engage in clusters of risk behaviors. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of Brazilian adults engaging in clusters of risk behaviors is high, mainly among males, those who reported a bad health and with low socioeconomic status.

Are Nigerian Women Pro-Active about Noncommunicable Disease Prevention? A Quantitative Survey.

BACKGROUND: Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) continue to cause significant morbidity and mortality worldwide with incidence increasing rapidly in developing countries. Poor utilization of preventive healthcare services contributes to this high burden. OBJECTIVE: To assess the knowledge and utilization of preventive healthcare services among women in Lagos, Nigeria. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study carried out at Mainland Local Government Area (LGA) between May and July 2014. Respondents were selected using the multistage sampling method. A pretested, interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to obtain information. Data were analyzed using Epi info software version 7. Summary and inferential statistics were done and the level of significance was set at <5% (p < 0.05). FINDINGS: Awareness of specified NCDs among the 322 respondents was 82.61% and of preventive healthcare services for the NCDs was 65.22%. Virtually all (99.05%) of the respondents had poor knowledge of these preventive services. Utilization rates were equally poor. Most common screening/tests done were Blood Pressure measurement (78.18%), Self breast examination (69.96%) and blood sugar test (58.33%). Much lower utilization rates were recorded for lipid profile (37.57%), Pap smear (26.11%), Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) (19.72%), Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) immunization (16.55%) and mammography (14.72%). CONCLUSIONS: Respondents were aware of specified NCDs and preventive healthcare services. They considered routine medical check-up important, however they had poor knowledge of the preventive health services for NCDs and hardly utilized them. Women should be given detailed information on the preventive healthcare services to improve their knowledge and utilization so as to reduce the NCD burden.

Risk and protection factors for chronic noncommunicable diseases in adolescents in Brazilian capitals. / Fatores de risco e proteção para as doenças crônicas não transmissíveis em adolescentes nas capitais brasileiras.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze trend estimates on the prevalence of risk and protective behaviors for chronic noncommunicable diseases in adolescents, according to data from the National School Health Survey in 2009, 2012 and 2015. METHODS: Data from the three cross-sectional studies in Brazilian capitals and the Federal District were used. In total, 173,310 adolescents enrolled in the ninth grade of elementary school were interviewed, with average age of 14 years. The prevalence of indicators of protective (consumption of beans and fruit; physical education classes at school; practice of physical activity for 60 minutes or more) and risk factors (consumption of candies and soft drinks; use of cigarettes and alcohol in the last 30 days; drug testing) were estimated through linear regression. RESULTS: There was a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the prevalence of fruit consumption and in the reduction of bean, soft drinks and candies consumption, as well as the consumption of alcoholic beverages and cigarettes. However, an increase in the prevalence of illicit drug experimentation was observed. Discussion: Despite the tendency to reduce risk factors, prevalences are high when compared with other sociocultural realities. CONCLUSION: The school is an important area of access to the adolescent public, and it is necessary to encourage school health promotion programs to reduce health risk behaviors, as well as to stimulate protective ones.

OBJETIVO: Analisar as estimativas de tendência sobre a prevalência de comportamentos de risco e proteção para doenças crônicas não transmissíveis em adolescentes, segundo dados da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde do Escolar em 2009, 2012 e 2015. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados dados dos três estudos transversais nas capitais brasileiras e no Distrito Federal. No total, entrevistaram-se 173.310 adolescentes matriculados no 9º ano do ensino fundamental, com idade média de 14 anos. Foram estimadas pelo modelo de regressão linear as prevalências dos indicadores de fatores de proteção (consumo de feijão e frutas; aulas de educação física na escola; prática de 60 minutos ou mais de atividade física) e de risco (consumo de guloseimas e refrigerantes; uso de cigarro e álcool nos últimos 30 dias; experimentação de drogas). RESULTADOS: Houve aumento significativo (p < 0,05) da prevalência do consumo de frutas e redução de consumo de feijão, refrigerantes e guloseimas, assim como do uso de bebidas alcoólicas e cigarro, entretanto foi observado aumento na prevalência de experimentação de drogas ilícitas. DISCUSSÃO: Apesar da tendência de redução em alguns fatores de risco, as prevalências encontradas são altas ao comparar com outras realidades socioculturais. CONCLUSÃO: A escola é um importante espaço de acesso ao público adolescente, e faz-se necessário estimular programas de promoção da saúde escolar para reduzir comportamentos de risco à saúde, assim como incentivar comportamentos protetores.

Patients' attendance patterns to different healthcare settings and perceptions of stakeholders regarding screening for chronic, non-communicable diseases in high street dental practices and community pharmacy: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) impose a significant health and economic burden. This study aimed to assess the differential attendance patterns of public to different healthcare professionals and gauge the opinions of key stakeholders towards screening of NCDs by allied healthcare professionals. DESIGN: Questionnaires were designed piloted and subsequently completed by key stakeholders. The results were analysed descriptively. SETTING: Public questionnaires were undertaken in a West Midlands transport station and Public Markets. High street dental and community pharmacy settings were selected via local clinical and research networks. Healthcare professionals were identified using professional networks and were emailed a web link to an online survey. PARTICIPANTS: 1371 members of the public, 1548 patients and 222 healthcare professionals (doctors general practitioner (GP), dentists general dental practitioner (GDP) and pharmacists) completed the questionnaires. OUTCOME MEASURES: The outcome was to compare attendance patterns at GDP and GP practices to determine whether different populations were more likely to access different healthcare professionals, this included determining when patients were last screened for NCDs by their GP. Additionally, the willingness of patients to undergo the required intervention and the opinions of stakeholders regarding the concept of screening for the specified NCDs in general dental and community pharmacy settings were also explored. RESULTS: 12% of patients who reported seeing a GDP biannually reported that they had not had contact with a GP in the last year. Over 61% of the public reported attending a GDP biannually, of this group 48% reported having never had a check-up at the GP. All stakeholders surveyed were in broad support of the concept of allied health professionals undertaking screening for specific general health conditions. CONCLUSIONS: This study has established that allied healthcare professionals may have access to different cohorts of the population to GPs. If GDPs and pharmacists have access to patients who are not using healthcare services elsewhere, they may be ideally placed to risk assess, and where appropriate offer preventative advice and test for NCDs.

The economic impact of non-communicable diseases among households in South Asia and their coping strategy: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Out of pocket payment (OOPP), is the major health financing mechanism in South Asia region. With the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), the region is facing a high financial burden. However, the extent and nature of economic impact caused by treatment and management of NCDs at the household level is yet unknown. METHOD: We conducted a systematic review using Medline and Embase databases. Only peer-reviewed quantitative studies published between January 2000 to December 2016 assessing OOPP or catastrophic health expenditure or impoverishment or financial coping strategy due to at least one of the four major NCDs-cardiovascular diseases(CVDs), diabetes, cancer, chronic respiratory disease in South Asia region was included in the review. The review is registered in PROSPERO no: CRD42017059345. RESULTS: A total of 21 studies (of 2693 records identified) met the inclusion criteria. The economic impact was most frequently studied in CVDs and in terms of OOPP. The studies collectively indicated high OOPP, higher likelihood of catastrophic expenditure and impoverishment for inpatient care for these major NCDs which was visible in all income levels. Borrowing and selling off assets were the most common forms of coping strategies adopted and varied inconsistently between urban and rural households. The true extent of the economic impact, however, remains difficult to determine due to methodological heterogeneity regarding outcomes reported and measures employed for calculation of OOPP, catastrophic expenditure, and impoverishment across these four major NCDs and between nations. CONCLUSION: The economic impact due to treatment and management of CVDs, diabetes, cancer and chronic respiratory diseases among households in South Asia seems dire. Given the lack of sufficient evidence the review stresses the need for further research in the region to develop evidence-informed nationally tailored prepayment mechanisms covering NCDs to reduce economic vulnerability and standardization of tools measuring the economic impact for generating comparable estimates.

The Effectiveness of Smartphone Apps for Lifestyle Improvement in Noncommunicable Diseases: Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses.

BACKGROUND: Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) account for 70% of all deaths in a year globally. The four main NCDs are cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic pulmonary diseases, and diabetes mellitus. Fifty percent of persons with NCD do not adhere to prescribed treatment; in fact, adherence to lifestyle interventions is especially considered as a major challenge. Smartphone apps permit structured monitoring of health parameters, as well as the opportunity to receive feedback. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to review and assess the effectiveness of app-based interventions, lasting at least 3 months, to promote lifestyle changes in patients with NCDs. METHODS: In February 2017, a literature search in five databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Academic Research Premier, and Cochrane Reviews and Trials) was conducted. Inclusion criteria was quantitative study designs including randomized and nonrandomized controlled trials that included patients aged 18 years and older diagnosed with any of the four main NCDs. Lifestyle outcomes were physical activity, physical fitness, modification of dietary habits, and quality of life. All included studies were assessed for risk of bias using the Cochrane Collaboration`s risk of bias tool. Meta-analyses were conducted for one of the outcomes (glycated hemoglobin, HbA1c) by using the estimate of effect of mean post treatment with SD or CI. Heterogeneity was tested using the I2 test. All studies included in the meta-analyses were graded. RESULTS: Of the 1588 records examined, 9 met the predefined criteria. Seven studies included diabetes patients only, one study included heart patients only, and another study included both diabetes and heart patients. Statistical significant effect was shown in HbA1c in 5 of 8 studies, as well in body weight in one of 5 studies and in waist circumference in one of 3 studies evaluating these outcomes. Seven of the included studies were included in the meta-analyses and demonstrated significantly overall effect on HbA1c on a short term (3-6 months; P=.02) with low heterogeneity (I2=41%). In the long term (10-12 months), the overall effect on HbA1c was statistical significant (P=.009) and without heterogeneity (I2=0%). The quality of evidence according to Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation was low for short term and moderate for long term. CONCLUSIONS: Our review demonstrated limited research of the use of smartphone apps for NCDs other than diabetes with a follow-up of at least 3 months. For diabetes, the use of apps seems to improve lifestyle factors, especially to decrease HbA1c. More research with long-term follow-up should be performed to assess the effect of smartphone apps for NCDs other than diabetes.

Associations between chronotype, morbidity and mortality in the UK Biobank cohort.

Later chronotype (i.e. evening preference) and later timing of sleep have been associated with greater morbidity, including higher rates of metabolic dysfunction and cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, no one has examined whether chronotype is associated with mortality risk to date. Our objective was to test the hypothesis that being an evening type is associated with increased mortality in a large cohort study, the UK Biobank. Our analysis included 433 268 adults aged 38-73 at the time of enrolment and an average 6.5-year follow-up. The primary exposure was chronotype, as assessed through a single self-reported question-defining participants as definite morning types, moderate morning types, moderate evening types or definite evening types. The primary outcomes were all-cause mortality and mortality due to CVD. Prevalent disease was also compared among the chronotype groups. Analyses were adjusted for age, sex, ethnicity, smoking, body mass index, sleep duration, socioeconomic status and comorbidities. Greater eveningness, particularly being a definite evening type, was significantly associated with a higher prevalence of all comorbidities. Comparing definite evening type to definite morning type, the associations were strongest for psychological disorders (OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.86-2.02, p = < 0.001), followed by diabetes (OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.24-1.36, p = < 0.001), neurological disorders (OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.20-1.30, p = < 0.001), gastrointestinal/abdominal disorders (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.19-1.27, p = < 0.001) and respiratory disorders (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.18-1.26, p = < 0.001). The total number of deaths was 10 534, out of which 2127 were due to CVD. Greater eveningness, based on chronotype as an ordinal variable, was associated with a small increased risk of all-cause mortality (HR 1.02, 95% CI 1.004-1.05, p = 0.017) and CVD mortality (HR 1.04, 95% CI 1.00-1.09, p = 0.06). Compared to definite morning types, definite evening types had significantly increased risk of all-cause mortality (HR 1.10, 95% CI 1.02-1.18, p = 0.012). This first report of increased mortality in evening types is consistent with previous reports of increased levels of cardiometabolic risk factors in this group. Mortality risk in evening types may be due to behavioural, psychological and physiological risk factors, many of which may be attributable to chronic misalignment between internal physiological timing and externally imposed timing of work and social activities. These findings suggest the need for researching possible interventions aimed at either modifying circadian rhythms in individuals or at allowing evening types greater working hour flexibility.

Social influences on adolescents' dietary behavior in Catalonia, Spain: A qualitative multiple-cases study from the perspective of social capital.

Adolescence has been referred to as the last best chance to prevent adult non-communicable diseases. Gaining further evidence on the psychosocial determinants of health behaviors, particularly the impact of peers, social networks and media on diet, is necessary to develop appropriate preventive strategies. Based on a multiple-cases study, our aim was to discuss the social influences on adolescents' dietary behavior from a social capital perspective. Participants were reached through four high-schools in different Catalan rural-urban and socioeconomic contexts. Our results confirm the different layout of social capital in the community, school, peers and family. In our sample, family and peers are the most influent sources of social capital in relation to dietary behaviors, inducing both protective and damaging effects.

Fatores de risco e proteção para as doenças crônicas não transmissíveis em adolescentes nas capitais brasileiras / Risk and protection factors for chronic noncommunicable diseases in adolescents in Brazilian capitals

RESUMO: Objetivo: Analisar as estimativas de tendência sobre a prevalência de comportamentos de risco e proteção para doenças crônicas não transmissíveis em adolescentes, segundo dados da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde do Escolar em 2009, 2012 e 2015. Métodos: Foram utilizados dados dos três estudos transversais nas capitais brasileiras e no Distrito Federal. No total, entrevistaram-se 173.310 adolescentes matriculados no 9º ano do ensino fundamental, com idade média de 14 anos. Foram estimadas pelo modelo de regressão linear as prevalências dos indicadores de fatores de proteção (consumo de feijão e frutas; aulas de educação física na escola; prática de 60 minutos ou mais de atividade física) e de risco (consumo de guloseimas e refrigerantes; uso de cigarro e álcool nos últimos 30 dias; experimentação de drogas). Resultados: Houve aumento significativo (p < 0,05) da prevalência do consumo de frutas e redução de consumo de feijão, refrigerantes e guloseimas, assim como do uso de bebidas alcoólicas e cigarro, entretanto foi observado aumento na prevalência de experimentação de drogas ilícitas. Discussão: Apesar da tendência de redução em alguns fatores de risco, as prevalências encontradas são altas ao comparar com outras realidades socioculturais. Conclusão: A escola é um importante espaço de acesso ao público adolescente, e faz-se necessário estimular programas de promoção da saúde escolar para reduzir comportamentos de risco à saúde, assim como incentivar comportamentos protetores.

ABSTRACT: Objective: To analyze trend estimates on the prevalence of risk and protective behaviors for chronic noncommunicable diseases in adolescents, according to data from the National School Health Survey in 2009, 2012 and 2015. Methods: Data from the three cross-sectional studies in Brazilian capitals and the Federal District were used. In total, 173,310 adolescents enrolled in the ninth grade of elementary school were interviewed, with average age of 14 years. The prevalence of indicators of protective (consumption of beans and fruit; physical education classes at school; practice of physical activity for 60 minutes or more) and risk factors (consumption of candies and soft drinks; use of cigarettes and alcohol in the last 30 days; drug testing) were estimated through linear regression. Results: There was a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the prevalence of fruit consumption and in the reduction of bean, soft drinks and candies consumption, as well as the consumption of alcoholic beverages and cigarettes. However, an increase in the prevalence of illicit drug experimentation was observed. Discussion: Despite the tendency to reduce risk factors, prevalences are high when compared with other sociocultural realities. Conclusion: The school is an important area of access to the adolescent public, and it is necessary to encourage school health promotion programs to reduce health risk behaviors, as well as to stimulate protective ones.