Protocol for a process evaluation of SCALA study - Intervention targeting scaling up of primary health care-based prevention and management of heavy drinking and comorbid depression in Latin America.

This paper describes the plan for a process evaluation of a quasi-experimental study testing the municipal level scale-up of primary health care-based measurement and brief advice programmes to reduce heavy drinking and comorbid depression in Colombia, Mexico, and Peru. The main aims of the evaluation are to assess the implementation of intervention components; mechanisms of impact that influenced the outcomes; and characteristics of the context that influenced implementation and outcomes. Based on this information, common drivers of successful outcomes will be identified. A range of data collection methods will be used: questionnaires; interviews; observations; logbooks; and document analysis. All participating providers will complete a pen-and-paper questionnaire at recruitment and two time points during the implementation period. Providers attending training will complete post-training questionnaires. Additionally, 1080 patients will be invited to self-complete a patient questionnaire. One-in-ten participating providers and fifteen other key stakeholders will participate in semi-structured interviews. Training sessions and community advisory board meetings will be observed by a neutral observer. Logbooks will be kept by local research teams to document events affecting the implementation. Project related documentation and other relevant reports describing the context will be examined.

Barriers to treatment for mental disorders in six countries of the Americas: A regional report from the World Mental Health Surveys.

BACKGROUND: Mental health treatment is scarce and little resources are invested in reducing the wide treatment gap that exists in the Americas. The regional barriers are unknown. We describe the barriers for not seeking treatment among those with mental and substance use disorders from six (four low- and middle-income and two high-income) countries from the Americas. Regional socio-demographic and clinical correlates are assessed. METHODS: Respondents (n = 4648) from seven World Mental Health surveys carried out in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, and the United States, who met diagnostic criteria for a 12-month mental disorder, measured with the Composite International Diagnostic Interview, and who did not access treatment, were asked about treatment need and, among those with need, structural and attitudinal barriers. Country-specific deviations from regional estimates were evaluated through logistic models. RESULTS: In the Americas, 43% of those that did not access treatment did not perceive treatment need, while the rest reported structural and attitudinal barriers. Overall, 27% reported structural barriers, and 95% attitudinal barriers. The most frequent attitudinal barrier was to want to handle it on their own (69.4%). Being female and having higher severity of disorders were significant correlates of greater perceived structural and lower attitudinal barriers, with few country-specific variations. LIMITATIONS: Only six countries in the Americas are represented; the cross-sectional nature of the survey precludes any causal interpretation. CONCLUSIONS: Awareness of disorder or treatment need in various forms is one of the main barriers reported in the Americas and it specially affects persons with severe disorders.

Costs of an Alcohol Measurement Intervention in Three Latin American Countries.

Alcohol measurement in health care settings is an effective intervention for reducing alcohol-related harm. However, in many countries, costs related to alcohol measurement have not yet been transparently assessed, which may hinder its adoption and implementation. Costs of an alcohol measurement programme in three upper-middle-income Latin American countries were assessed via questionnaires and compared, as part of the quasi-experimental SCALA study. Additional to the intervention costs, the costs of three implementation strategies: standard training and clinical package, intensive training and clinical package, and community support, were assessed and subsequently translated into costs per additional alcohol measurement session. Results demonstrated that costs for one alcohol measurement session ranged between Int$ 0.67 and Int$ 1.23 in Colombia, Int$ 1.19 and Int$ 2.57 in Mexico, and Int$ 1.11 and Int$ 2.14 in Peru. Costs were mainly driven by the salaries of the health professionals. Implementation strategies costs per additional alcohol measurement session ranged between Int$ 1.24 and Int$ 6.17. In all three countries, standard training and a clinical package may be a promising implementation strategy with a relatively low cost per additional alcohol measurement session.

Primary care-based screening and management of depression amongst heavy drinking patients: Interim secondary outcomes of a three-country quasi-experimental study in Latin America.

INTRODUCTION: Implementation of evidence-based care for heavy drinking and depression remains low in global health systems. We tested the impact of providing community support, training, and clinical packages of varied intensity on depression screening and management for heavy drinking patients in Latin American primary healthcare. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Quasi-experimental study involving 58 primary healthcare units in Colombia, Mexico and Peru randomized to receive: (1) usual care (control); (2) training using a brief clinical package; (3) community support plus training using a brief clinical package; (4) community support plus training using a standard clinical package. Outcomes were proportion of: (1) heavy drinking patients screened for depression; (2) screen-positive patients receiving appropriate support; (3) all consulting patients screened for depression, irrespective of drinking status. RESULTS: 550/615 identified heavy drinkers were screened for depression (89.4%). 147/230 patients screening positive for depression received appropriate support (64%). Amongst identified heavy drinkers, adjusting for country, sex, age and provider profession, provision of community support and training had no impact on depression activity rates. Intensity of clinical package also did not affect delivery rates, with comparable performance for brief and standard versions. However, amongst all consulting patients, training providers resulted in significantly higher rates of alcohol measurement and in turn higher depression screening rates; 2.7 times higher compared to those not trained. CONCLUSIONS: Training using a brief clinical package increased depression screening rates in Latin American primary healthcare. It is not possible to determine the effectiveness of community support on depression activity rates due to the impact of COVID-19.

Características de la oferta de servicios de salud del primer nivel de atención en el control de la tuberculosis: DIRESA Callao, 2017 / Characteristics of the offer of health services on first level of care in tuberculosis control strategies: DIRESA Callao, 2017

Introducción: La provincia constitucional del Callao es una de las más afectadas por la epidemia de tuberculosis a nivel nacional. Asimismo, se debe considerar que los establecimientos de salud del primer nivel de atención son usualmente la puerta de entrada para estos pacientes, al sistema sanitario. Objetivos: Describir las características de la oferta de servicios de salud en unidades de tuberculosis en el primer nivel de atención de la Provincia Constitucional del Callao. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, en 45 servicios de salud, en los que se indagó sobre características de infraestructura, recursos humanos y el ingreso de data al sistema de información. Resultados: Los 45 establecimientos contaban con "unidades de atención diferenciadas para tuberculosis", atienden en ellas 19 médicos, 35 enfermeros, 3 nutricionistas, 10 psicólogos, 9 asistentes sociales y 50 técnicos de enfermerías. El 96% del personal realizó otras atenciones, y el 33% tuvo menos de 6 meses laborando en estas unidades. Solo un 40% recibió algún entrenamiento específico. El sistema de información fue manual, utilizando libros y registros físicos. Conclusiones: Los servicios de salud cuentan con infraestructura adecuada, pero existen serias limitaciones de personal y en el sistema de información.

Introduction: The constitutional province of Callao is one of the most affected by the epidemic of tuberculosis nationwide. Likewise, it should be considered that the first level health care services are usually the gateway for these patients to the health system. Objectives: To describe the characteristics of the offer of health services in tuberculosis units from first level of care in the Constitutional Province of Callao. Methods: A descriptive study was carried out in 45 tuberculosis units from primary care health services, which investigated the characteristics of infrastructure, human resources and data entry to the information system. Results: 45 primary care health services have "Differentiated units of TB care"; which have 19 doctors, 35 nurses, 3 nutritionists, 10 psychologists, 9 social workers and 50 nursing technicians. 96% of professionals refers doing non-exclusive activities for caring TB patients. 33% have less than 6 months in this work and only 40% have received specific training. In addition, the program’s information system is manual using paper record books. Conclusions: The health services have adequate infrastructure, but there are serious limitations of professionals and information system.

Oficina de saúde e sexualidade: Residentes de saúde promovendo educação sexual entre adolescentes de escola pública / Workshop on health and sexuality: Health residents promoting sexual education among adolescents from a public school / Oficina de salud y sexualidad: Residentes de salud promoviendo educación sexual entre adolescentes de escuela pública

Objetivo: Relatar a experiência da implementação de oficinas de saúde e sexualidade por residentes de saúde da família com adolescentes do 8º ano de uma escola pública em Florianópolis. Relato de experiência: As oficinas foram organizadas sob a forma de encontros mensais, com turmas do 8º ano dos períodos matutino e vespertino, da Escola de Ensino Básico Hilda Teodoro, situada no bairro da Trindade, em Florianópolis, entre os meses de março a dezembro de 2017. Os encontros eram realizados em pequenos grupos, com 16 alunos por turma, dispostos em roda de maneira a permitir a interação e participação de todos os membros, tendo duração de 45 a 90 minutos. Durante os encontros, eram realizadas palestras, dinâmicas e rodas de conversa, estimulando a reflexão, debate e conscientização dos adolescentes acerca da importância de temas como: gravidez na adolescência, doenças sexualmente transmissíveis, orientação sexual e identidade de gênero, machismo, métodos anticoncepcionais e anatomia dos órgãos reprodutivos. Discussão: Por meio da experiência, notou-se participação ativa e ricas contribuições por parte dos adolescentes, principalmente das meninas, evidenciando interesse considerável sobre a temática da sexualidade, principalmente a gravidez na adolescência e os métodos contraceptivos. Os discursos e pontos de vista ressaltaram as mudanças em curso na sociedade brasileira, em direção à igualdade de gênero e empoderamento feminino. Conclusão: As oficinas de saúde e sexualidade desenvolvidas pelos residentes de medicina de família e comunidade e saúde da família representaram uma oportunidade ímpar de interação entre os programas de residência, as equipes de Estratégia de Saúde da Família e a comunidade, utilizando o cenário escolar como ferramenta para a promoção de saúde e empoderamento social.

Objective: To describe an experience of implementing a health and sexuality workshop by family health residents with students from 8th grade classes from a public school in Florianópolis. Experience report: Workshops were organized in the form of monthly meetings, with 8th grade classes of morning and afternoon shifts, from the Hilda Teodoro Elementary School, located in the Trindade neighborhood, Florianópolis, from March to December, 2017. The meetings were performed in small groups, with 16 students per class, organized in circle allowing the interaction and participation of all members, lasting from 45 to 90 minutes. During the workshops, lectures, dynamics and conversation were developed, stimulating adolescents to wonder, discuss and reflect about the importance of topics such as teenage pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, sexual orientation and gender identity, machismo, contraceptive methods and anatomy of the reproductive organs. Discussion: Through the experience, it was noticed active participation and rich contributions by the adolescents, mainly of the girls, evidencing considerable interest on the subject of sexuality, especially teenage pregnancy and contraceptive methods. The speeches and points of view highlighted the changes taking place in Brazilian society, towards gender equality and women's empowerment. Conclusion: Health and sexuality workshops organized by family medicine and family health residents represented a relevant opportunity to interaction amongst Family Health Strategy Residence Programs, Family Health Strategy teams and communities, using the school scenario as a tool for health promotion and social empowerment.

Objetivo: Informar la experiencia de la implementación de talleres de salud y sexualidad por residentes de salud de la familia con adolescentes del 8º año de una escuela pública en Florianópolis. Relato de experiencia: Los talleres fueron organizados en forma de encuentros mensuales, con clases del 8º año, períodos matutino y vespertino, de la Escuela de Educación Básica Hilda Teodoro, ubicada en el barrio de la Trinidad en Florianópolis, entre los meses de marzo a diciembre de 2017. Los encuentros se realizaban en pequeños grupos, con 16 alumnos por clase, dispuestos en de manera que permita la interacción y participación de todos los miembros, teniendo una duración de 45 a 90 minutos. Durante los encuentros se realizaron charlas, dinámicas y ruedas de conversación, estimulando la reflexión, debate y concientización de los adolescentes acerca de la importancia de temas como embarazo en la adolescencia, enfermedades sexualmente transmisibles, orientación sexual e identidad de género, machismo, métodos anticonceptivos y anatomía de los adolescentes órganos reproductivos. Discusión: Por medio de la experiencia, se notó participación activa y ricas contribuciones por parte de los adolescentes, principalmente de las niñas, evidenciando un interés considerable sobre la temática de la sexualidad, principalmente el embarazo en la adolescencia y los métodos anticonceptivos. Los discursos y puntos de vista resaltaron los cambios en curso en la sociedad brasileña, en dirección a la igualdad de género y empoderamiento femenino. Conclusión: Los talleres de salud y sexualidad desarrollados por los residentes de medicina de la familia y salud de la familia representaron una oportunidad relevante de interacción entre los Programas de Residencia en Salud de la Familia, los equipos de Estrategia de Salud de la Familia y la comunidad, utilizando el escenario escolar como herramienta para la promoción de la salud y el empoderamiento social.

The relationship between neighborhood-level socioeconomic characteristics and individual mental disorders in five cities in Latin America: multilevel models from the World Mental Health Surveys.

PURPOSE: Our understanding of community-level predictors of individual mental disorders in large urban areas of lower income countries is limited. In particular, the proportion of migrant, unemployed, and poorly educated residents in neighborhoods of these urban areas may characterize group contexts and shape residents' health. METHODS: Cross-sectional household interviews of 7251 adults were completed across 83 neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, Argentina; Medellín, Colombia; São Paulo, Brazil; Lima, Peru; and Mexico City, Mexico as part of the World Mental Health Survey Initiative. Past-year internalizing and externalizing mental disorders were assessed, and multilevel models were used. RESULTS: Living in neighborhoods with either an above-average or below-average proportion of migrants and highly educated residents was associated with lower odds of any internalizing disorder (for proportion migrants: OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.62-0.91 for the bottom tertile and OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.67-0.94 for the top tertile compared to the middle tertile; for proportion highly educated: OR 0.76, 95% CI 0.64-0.90 for the bottom tertile and OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.37-0.90 for the top tertile compared to the middle tertile). Living in neighborhoods with an above-average proportion of unemployed individuals was associated with higher odds of having any internalizing disorder (OR 1.49, 95% CI 1.14-1.95 for the top tertile compared to the middle tertile). The proportion of highly educated residents was associated with lower odds of externalizing disorder (OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.31-0.93 for the top tertile compared to the middle tertile). CONCLUSIONS: The associations of neighborhood-level migration, unemployment, and education with individual-level odds of mental disorders highlight the importance of community context for understanding the burden of mental disorders among residents of rapidly urbanizing global settings.

Socio-economic disadvantage is associated with heavier drinking in high but not middle-income countries participating in the International Alcohol Control Study.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: To investigate if socio-economic disadvantage, at the individual- and country-level, is associated with heavier drinking in some middle- and high-income countries. DESIGN AND METHODS: Surveys of drinkers were undertaken in some high- and middle-income countries. Participating countries were Australia, England, New Zealand, Scotland (high-income) and Peru, Thailand and Vietnam (middle-income). Disadvantage at the country-level was defined as per World Bank (categorised as middle-or high-income); individual-level measures were (i) years of education and (ii) whether and individual was under or over the poverty line in each country. Measures of heavier drinking were (i) proportion of drinkers that consumed 8+ drinks and (ii) three drinking risk groups (lower, increasing and higher). Multi-level logistic regression models were used. RESULTS: Individual-level measures of disadvantage, lower education and living in poverty, were associated with heavier drinking, consuming 8+ drinks on a typical occasion or drinking at the higher risk level, when all countries were considered together. Drinkers in the middle-income countries had a higher probability of consuming 8+ drinks on a typical occasion relative to drinkers in the high-income countries. Interactions between country-level income and individual-level disadvantage were undertaken: disadvantaged drinkers in the middle-income countries were less likely to be heavier drinkers relative to those with less disadvantage in the high-income countries. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: Associations between socio-economic disadvantage and heavier drinking vary depending on country-level income. These findings highlight the value of exploring cross-country differences in heavier drinking and disadvantage and the importance of including country-level measurements to better elucidate relationships.

Availability of alcohol: Location, time and ease of purchase in high- and middle-income countries: Data from the International Alcohol Control Study.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: Cross-country studies on alcohol purchasing and access are rare. We examined where and when people access alcohol to understand patterns of availability across a range of middle- and high-income countries. DESIGN AND METHODS: Surveys of drinkers in the International Alcohol Control study in high-income countries (Australia, England, Scotland, New Zealand and St Kitts and Nevis) and middle-income countries (Mongolia, South Africa, Peru, Thailand and Vietnam) were analysed. Measures were: location of purchase from on-premise and take-away outlets, proportion of alcohol consumed on-premise versus take-away outlets, hours of purchase, access among underage drinkers and time to access alcohol. RESULTS: On-premise purchasing was prevalent in the high-income countries. However, the vast majority of alcohol consumed in all countries, except St Kitts and Nevis (high-income), was take-away. Percentages of drinkers purchasing from different types of on-premise and take-away outlets varied between countries. Late purchasing was common in Peru and less common in Thailand and Vietnam. Alcohol was easily accessed by drinkers in all countries, including underage drinkers in the middle-income countries. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: In nine out of 10 countries the vast majority of alcohol consumed was take-away. Alcohol was readily available and relatively easy for underage drinkers to access, particularly in the middle-income countries. Research is needed to assess the harms associated with take-away consumption including late at night. Attention is needed to address the easy access by underage drinkers in the middle-income countries which has been less of a focus than in high-income countries.

Policy-relevant behaviours predict heavier drinking and mediate the relationship with age, gender and education status: Analysis from the International Alcohol Control Study.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: To investigate behaviours related to four alcohol policy variables (policy-relevant behaviours) and demographic variables in relation to typical quantities of alcohol consumed on-premise in six International Alcohol Control study countries. DESIGN AND METHODS: General population surveys with drinkers using a comparable survey instrument and data analysed using path analysis in an overall model and for each country. MEASURES: typical quantities per occasion consumed on-premise; gender, age; years of education, prices paid, time of purchase, time to access alcohol and liking for alcohol advertisements. RESULTS: In the overall model younger people, males and those with fewer years of education consumed larger typical quantities. Overall lower prices paid, later time of purchase and liking for alcohol ads predicted consuming larger typical quantities; this was found in the high-income countries, less consistently in the high-middle-income countries and not in the low middle-income country. Three policy-relevant behaviours (prices paid, time of purchase, liking for alcohol ads) mediated the relationships between age, gender, education and consumption in high-income countries. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: International Alcohol Control survey data showed a relationship between policy-relevant behaviours and typical quantities consumed and support the likely effect of policy change (trading hours, price and restrictions on marketing) on heavier drinking. The path analysis also revealed policy-relevant behaviours were significant mediating variables between the effect of age, gender and educational status on consumption. However, this relationship is clearest in high-income countries. Further research is required to understand better how circumstances in low-middle-income countries impact effects of policies.

Cross-country comparison of proportion of alcohol consumed in harmful drinking occasions using the International Alcohol Control Study.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: This study examines the proportion of alcohol markets consumed in harmful drinking occasions in a range of high-, middle-income countries and assesses the implications of these findings for conflict of interest between alcohol producers and public health and the appropriate role of the alcohol industry in alcohol policy space. DESIGN AND METHODS: Cross-sectional surveys were conducted in 10 countries as part of the International Alcohol Control study. Alcohol consumption was measured using location- and beverage-specific measures. A level of consumption defined as harmful use of alcohol was chosen and the proportion of the total market consumed in these drinking occasions was calculated for both commercial and informal alcohol. RESULTS: In all countries, sizeable proportions of the alcohol market were consumed during harmful drinking occasions. In general, a higher proportion of alcohol was consumed in harmful drinking occasions by respondents in the middle-income countries than respondents in the high-income countries. The proportion of informal alcohol consumed in harmful drinking occasions was lower than commercial alcohol. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: Informal alcohol is less likely to be consumed in harmful drinking occasions compared with commercial alcohol. The proportion of commercial alcohol consumed in harmful drinking occasions in a range of alcohol markets shows the reliance of the transnational alcohol corporations on harmful alcohol use. This reliance underpins industry lobbying against effective policy and support for ineffective approaches. The conflict of interest between the alcohol industry and public health requires their exclusion from the alcohol policy space.

The International Alcohol Control Study: Methodology and implementation.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: The International Alcohol Control (IAC) Study is a multi-country collaborative project to assess patterns of alcohol consumption and the impact of alcohol control policy. The aim of this paper is to report the methods and implementation of the IAC. DESIGN AND METHODS: The IAC has been implemented among drinkers 16-65 years in high- and middle-income countries: Australia, England, Scotland, New Zealand, St Kitts and Nevis, Thailand, South Africa, Peru, Mongolia and Vietnam (the latter four samples were sub-national). Two research instruments were used: the IAC survey of drinkers and the Alcohol Environmental Protocol (a protocol for policy analysis). The survey was administered via computer-assisted interview and the Alcohol Environmental Protocol data were collected via document review, administrative or commercial data and key informant interviews. RESULTS: The IAC instruments were readily adapted for cross-country use. The IAC methodology has provided cross-country survey data on key measures of alcohol consumption (quantity, frequency and volume), aspects of policy relevant behaviour and policy implementation: availability, price, purchasing, marketing and drink driving. The median response rate for all countries was 60% (range 16% to 99%). Where data on alcohol available for consumption were available the validity of survey consumption measures were assessed by calculating survey coverage found to be 86% or above. Differential response bias was handled, to the extent it could be, using post-stratification weights. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: The IAC study will allow for cross-country analysis of drinking patterns, the relationship between alcohol use and policy relevant behaviour in different countries.

Support for alcohol policies among drinkers in Mongolia, New Zealand, Peru, South Africa, St Kitts and Nevis, Thailand and Vietnam: Data from the International Alcohol Control Study.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: A 2010 World Health Assembly resolution called on member states to intensify efforts to address alcohol-related harm. Progress has been slow. This study aims to determine the magnitude of public support for 12 alcohol policies and whether it differs by country, demographic factors and drinking risk (volume consumed). DESIGN AND METHODS: Data are drawn from seven countries participating in the International Alcohol Control Study which used country-specific sampling methods designed to obtain random, representative samples. The weighted total sample comprised 11 494 drinkers aged 16-65 years. RESULTS: Drinking risk was substantial (24% 'increased' risk and 16% 'high' risk) and was particularly high in South Africa. Support varied by alcohol policy, ranging from 12% to 96%, but was above 50% for 79% of the possible country/policy combinations. Across countries, policy support was generally higher for policies addressing drink driving and increasing the alcohol purchase age. There was less support for policies increasing the price of alcohol, especially when funds were not earmarked. Policy support differed by country, and was generally higher in the five middle-income countries than in New Zealand. It also differed by age, gender, education, quantity/frequency of drinking, risk category and country income level. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: We found a trend in policy support, generally being highest in the low-middle-income countries, followed by high-middle-income countries and then high-income countries. Support from drinkers for a range of alcohol policies is extensive across all countries and could be used as a catalyst for further policy action.

[Use of evidence in heath policies and programs contributions of the instituto nacional de salud]. / Uso de la evidencia en políticas y programas de salud aportes del instituto nacional de salud.

This article analyzes some examples about how the Ministry of Health of Peru has used evidence for policy and program formulation, implementation and evaluation. It describes the process by which health budget programs are based and strengthened with scientific evidence. Provides an overview about how the development of clinical guidelines methodology is facilitating the generation of high quality evidence based clinical guidelines.It presents some examples of specific information needs of the Ministry of Health to which the Instituto Nacional de Salud has responded, and the impact of that collaboration. Finally, the article proposes future directions for the use of research methodology especially relevant for the development and evaluation of policy and programs, as well as the development of networks of health technology assessment at the national and international level.

Uso de la evidencia en políticas y programas de salud aportes del instituto nacional de salud / Use of evidence in heath policies and programs contributions of the instituto nacional de salud

RESUMEN En el presente artículo se analizan algunos ejemplos del uso de evidencia generada por el Instituto Nacional de Salud (INS) que el Ministerio de Salud del Perú ha realizado en los últimos años en la formulación, implementación y evaluación de las políticas y programas. Presenta el proceso por el cual los programas presupuestales se sustentan y fortalecen a partir de la evidencia. Describe el progreso en el desarrollo de una metodología para generar guías de calidad a partir de la mejor evidencia disponible para orientar la práctica clínica. Presenta algunos ejemplos de requerimientos de evidencia del Ministerio de Salud al Instituto Nacional de Salud y su impacto en política. Por último, propone direcciones futuras respecto a metodologías de investigación especialmente relevantes para el desarrollo y evaluación de políticas y el fortalecimiento de redes de evaluación de tecnologías en el ámbito nacional e internacional.

ABSTRACT This article analyzes some examples about how the Ministry of Health of Peru has used evidence for policy and program formulation, implementation and evaluation. It describes the process by which health budget programs are based and strengthened with scientific evidence. Provides an overview about how the development of clinical guidelines methodology is facilitating the generation of high quality evidence based clinical guidelines.It presents some examples of specific information needs of the Ministry of Health to which the Instituto Nacional de Salud has responded, and the impact of that collaboration. Finally, the article proposes future directions for the use of research methodology especially relevant for the development and evaluation of policy and programs, as well as the development of networks of health technology assessment at the national and international level.

Estudio transversal de uso de servicios de salud mental en cinco ciudades del Perú / Cross sectional study of mental health services use in five cities of Peru

ANTECEDENTES: La primera causa de carga de enfermedad en el Perú son las enfermedades neuropsiquiátricas. OBJETIVO: El objetivo del presente estudio fue generar información acerca del uso de 12 meses de servicios de salud mental en la población adulta urbana de Perú. MÉTODO: El Estudio Mundial de Salud Mental(EMSM)se desarrolló con una muestra probabilística y multietápica de 3930 participantes de 18 a 65 años de edad en Lima, Arequipa, Huancayo, Iquitos y Tacna entre julio del 2004 y diciembre del 2005. Utilizó la Entrevista Diagnóstica Internacional Compuesta, que proporciona diagnósticos de acuerdo con el DSM-IV y el CIE-10. RESULTADOS: Sólo una de cada cinco personas que presentaron algún trastorno durante los últimos 12 meses recibió tratamiento durante ese período. En promedio, durante este tiempo recibieron tres atenciones. Sólo 9.7% de las personas con cualquier trastorno durante los últimos 12 meses recibió un tratamiento adecuado. Las personas con bajo nivel de educación tuvieron menor acceso a tratamiento mínimamente adecuado (OR=0.1; 95% CI=0.0, 0.5). El grupo con trastornos de uso de sustancias presentó menor acceso a tratamiento en los últimos 12 meses (12.7%). DISCUSIÓN Y CONCLUSIÓN: En el Perú existe una brecha de atención de salud mental. Las personas de menor educación y las personas con trastorno de abuso de sustancias son el grupo de menor acceso a cualquier tipo de tratamiento adecuado. La brecha de atención pone en evidencia la urgente necesidad de dirigir atención y recursos hacia la detección y tratamiento oportuno de las enfermedades mentales en el Perú.

BACKGROUND: Neuropsichiatric diseases constitute the first cause of burden of disease in Peru. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe 12 month mental health services utilization, of the 18 to 65 years old urban population in Peru. METHOD: As part of the World Mental Health Survey Initiative (WMHSI), this research used a multistage, clustered-area probability sample of 3930 18-65 years old household residents in Lima, Arequipa, Huancayo, Iquitos and Tacna between July 2004 and December of 2005. The Instrument used was the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) that produces DSM-IV/ICD-9 diagnoses by means of computerized algorithms. RESULTS: In the last 12 months, only one of every 5 people who had a mental disorder during this period received any treatment. The average number of treatment visits per year was only three. 9.7% of those with any mental disorder received appropriate treatment. People with low education had less access to minimally adequate treatment (OR=0.1, 95% CI=0.0, 0.5). The group with substance use disorders had lower access to treatment in the last 12 months (12.7%). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Peru presents a wide gap in mental health treatment. Mental Health treatment gap in Peru emphasizes the need to direct resources towards screening and treatment of mental disorders.

Disponibilidad de medicamentos psicotrópicos en establecimientos del Ministerio de Salud del Perú, 2011 / Availability of psychotropic medications in health care facilities of the Ministry of Health of Peru, 2011

Objetivos. Describir la disponibilidad de medicamentos psicotrópicos para el tratamiento de trastornos mentales en el Perú en los establecimientos del Ministerio de Salud. Materiales y métodos. Se analizaron informes mensuales de inventarios de medicamentos disponibles y de consumo en los establecimientos del Ministerio de Salud durante el año 2011. Usando un diseño transversal, se determinó la disponibilidad de siete clases de medicamentos psicotrópicos, distinguiendo el nivel de atención de los establecimientos, y el nivel de autonomía de decisión para la compra de medicamentos. Resultados. Los medicamentos ansiolíticos estuvieron disponibles en los establecimientos de salud de todos los niveles de atención. Los antidepresivos y antipsicóticos se encontraron disponibles en alrededor de dos tercios de los hospitales, y en menos del 20% de centros y puestos de salud. Las otras cuatro clases de medicamentos psicotrópicos (litio, hipnóticos y sedantes, psicoestimulantes/TDAH y drogas antidemencia) solo estuvieron disponibles en hospitales y mas no así en centros y puestos de salud. El 5% de los hospitales contó con suministro suficiente para satisfacer la demanda durante todos los meses del año. Conclusiones. Existe una importante brecha en la disponibilidad de medicamentos psicotrópicos en los establecimientos del Ministerio de Salud del Perú. Se observa esta situación tanto en hospitales como en el nivel primario de atención. Es necesario tomar acciones en la política y gestión de salud, incluyendo más financiamiento y una mayor capacitación en salud mental para el personal de la atención primaria, entre otras iniciativas.

Objectives. Describe the availability of psychotropic medications for the treatment of mental disorders in the health care facilities of the Ministry of Health of Peru. Materials and methods. Monthly inventory reports of the availability and consumption of medications in facilities of the Ministry of Health during 2011 were analyzed. Using a cross sectional design, the availability of seven classes of psychotropic medications was determined. Also, the level of care of the establishments and the level of decisional autonomy to purchase medications were determined. Results. Anti-anxiety medications were available in health facilities of all levels of care. Antidepressants and antipsychotics were available in about two thirds of hospitals and in less than 20% of health centers and small health clinics. The other four classes of psychotropic medications (lithium, hypnotics and sedatives, psychostimulants/ADHD, and anti-dementia drugs) were only available in hospitals and not in health centers and small health clinics. 5% of hospitals had a sufficient supply to meet the demand for the year. Conclusions. There is a significant gap in the availability of psychotropic medications in the health care facilities of the Ministry of Health of Peru. This was observed both in hospitals and in primary care facilities. Actions are needed in health policy and management, including more funding and greater mental health training for staff in primary care, among other initiatives.

[Annual prevalence of mental disorders and use of mental health services in Peru: results of the World Mental Health Survey, 2005]. / Prevalencia anual de trastornos y uso de servicios de salud mental en el Perú: resultados del estudio mundial de salud mental, 2005.

OBJECTIVES: To estimate the annual prevalence of eighteen mental disorders, their sociodemographic correlates and the frequency of use of mental health services by individuals aged 18 to 65 in five cities of Peru. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The World Mental Health Survey in Peru used the Composite International Diagnostic Interview, which provides diagnoses according to DSM-IV and ICD-10 criteria. It was performed with a multistage probabilistic sample in Lima, Arequipa, Huancayo, Iquitos and Chiclayo between July 2004 and December 2005. RESULTS: The prevalence of mental disorders in the last twelve months was 13.5%, the most frequent being anxiety (7.9%), mood (3.5%), impulse control (3.5%) and substance misuse (1.7%). The widowed, separated and divorced showed a greater risk of disorders in the last year than those who were married or partners living together. Only 32.8% of those who had severe mental health disorders in the last twelve months received any kind of treatment. Among those with moderate or mild disorders, 18.1% and 15.4% received treatment, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: More than 13 out of 100 Peruvians reported having a mental health disorder in the last year. The magnitude of mental health disorders and the gap in those receiving care highlights the urgent need to direct care and resources towards the detection and timely treatment of mental diseases in Peru.

Prevalencia anual de trastornos y uso de servicios de salud mental en el Perú: Resultados del estudio mundial de salud mental, 2005 / Annual prevalence of mental disorders and use of mental health services in Peru: Results of the world mental health survey, 2005

Objetivos: Estimar la prevalencia anual de 18 trastornos mentales según, sus correlatos sociodemográficos y la frecuencia de utilización de servicios de salud mental de la población de 18 a 65 años de edad, residente en áreas urbanas de cinco ciudades del Perú. Materiales y métodos. El Estudio Mundial de Salud Mental (EMSM) en Perú utilizó la Entrevista Diagnóstica Internacional Compuesta, que proporciona diagnósticos de acuerdo con el DSMIV y el CIE-10. Se realizó con una muestra probabilística multietápica en Lima, Arequipa, Huancayo, Iquitos y Chiclayo entre julio del 2004 y diciembre del 2005. Resultados. La prevalencia de trastornos mentales en los últimos doce meses, fue de 13,5% siendo más frecuentes los de ansiedad (7,9%), estado de ánimo (3,5%), control de impulsos (3,5%) y uso de sustancias (1,7%). Las personas viudas, separadas y divorciadas evidenciaron mayor riesgo de presentar un trastorno en el último año que los casados o convivientes. Solo 32,8% de quienes presentaron trastornos severos de salud mental en los últimos 12 meses recibieron algún tipo de tratamiento; entre quienes presentaron trastornos moderados 18,1%; y entre quienes presentaron trastornos leves, 15,4%. Conclusiones. Más de 13 de 100 peruanos han presentado un trastorno de salud mental en el último año. La magnitud de los trastornos de salud mental y la brecha de atención pone en evidencia la urgente necesidad de dirigir atención y recursos hacia la detección y tratamiento oportuno de las enfermedades mentales en el Perú.

Objectives: To estimate the annual prevalence of eighteen mental disorders, their sociodemographic correlates and the frequency of use of mental health services by individuals aged 18 to 65 in five cities of Peru. Materials and methods. The World Mental Health Survey in Peru used the Composite International Diagnostic Interview, which provides diagnoses according to DSM-IV and ICD-10 criteria. It was performed with a multistage probabilistic sample in Lima, Arequipa, Huancayo, Iquitos and Chiclayo between July 2004 and December 2005. Results. The prevalence of mental disorders in the last twelve months was 13.5%, the most frequent being anxiety (7.9%), mood (3.5%), impulse control (3.5%) and substance misuse (1.7%). The widowed, separated and divorced showed a greater risk of disorders in the last year than those who were married or partners living together. Only 32.8% of those who had severe mental health disorders in the last twelve months received any kind of treatment. Among those with moderate or mild disorders, 18.1% and 15.4% received treatment, respectively. Conclusions. More than 13 out of 100 Peruvians reported having a mental health disorder in the last year. The magnitude of mental health disorders and the gap in those receiving care highlights the urgent need to direct care and resources towards the detection and timely treatment of mental diseases in Peru.