Measurement invariance of the GAD-5 Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale in a Mexican general population sample.

The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the measurement of invariance by sex, age, and educational level of an online version of the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale in a five-item version (GAD-5). Configural, metric, scalar, and strict invariance were evaluated using data from 79,473 respondents who answered a mental health questionnaire during the COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico. The sex variable was classified as male or female; age was categorized as minors, youth, young adults, adults, and older adults; and educational level was divided into basic, upper secondary, higher, and graduate education. To test for configural invariance, confirmatory factor models were constructed. For metric invariance, equality restrictions were established for the factor loadings between the construct and its items; for scalar invariance, equality restrictions were established between the intercepts; strict variance implied the additional restriction of the residuals. Statistical analysis was performed in R software with the lavaan package. The results show that with respect to sex, age, and educational level, configural and metric measurement invariance was confirmed (ΔCFI < 0.002; ΔRMSEA < 0.015). However, with respect to scalar and strict invariance, the results showed significant differences regarding the fit model (ΔCFI > 0.002; ΔRMSEA > 0.015). We conclude that the GAD-5 presents configural and metric invariance for sex, age, and educational level, and scalar invariance for sex and age groups. However, the scale does not demonstrate strict invariance. We discuss the implications and suggest that this result could be related to the evaluation of sociodemographic variables.

Medical outcomes study social support survey (MOS-SSS) in patients with chronic disease: A psychometric assessment.

Purpose: Currently, information on the psychometric properties of the Medical outcomes study-social support survey (MOS-SSS) for patients with chronic disease in primary health care, suggests problems in the dimensionality, specifically predominant unidimensionality in a multidimensional measure. The aim of this study was to determine the internal structure (dimensionality, measurement invariance and reliability) and association with other variables. Methods: A total of 470 patients with chronic disease from a Family Medicine Unit at the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, IMSS, with a mean age of 51.51 years were included. Participants responded to the Questionnaire of Sociodemographic Variables (Q-SV), SF-36 Health-Related Quality of Life Scale-version 1.1, and MOS-SSS. Results: Non-parametric (Mokken scaling analysis) and parametric (confirmatory factor analysis) analyses indicated unidimensionality, and three-factor model was not representative. A new 8-item version (MOS-S) was developed, where measurement invariance, equivalence with the long version, reliability, and relationship with the SF-36 were satisfactory. Conclusion: The MOS-SSS scale is unidimensional, and the shortened version yields valid and reliable scores for measuring social support in patients with chronic disease at the primary health care.

Factores asociados con el consumo excesivo de alcohol: Encuesta Nacional de Salud y Nutrición 2020 sobre Covid-19 / Factors associated with binge drinking: National Health and Nutrition Survey 2020, Covid-19

Resumen: Objetivo: Conocer la magnitud del consumo excesivo de alcohol (CEA) y su asociación con los factores individuales, familiares y sociales entre agosto y noviembre de 2020 en México. Material y métodos: Con base en los datos de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud y Nutrición 2020 sobre Covid-19, se analizaron 8 595 adultos mayores de 20 años. Se estimaron modelos de regresión logística estratificados por sexo y se obtuvieron razones de momios (RM) con intervalos de confianza al 95% (IC95%). Resultados: El CEA fue de 40.43%; hombres 56.49% y mujeres 25.70%. Los principales factores asociados fueron ser hombre (RM=3.66; IC95%: 3.22,4.12), edad de 20 a 29 años (RM=3.65; IC95%: 2.89,4.63), salir a trabajar durante la pandemia (RM=1.56; IC95%: 1.33,1.81) y tener dos o más escolares en el hogar (RM=1.20; IC95%: 1.03,1.39). Conclusiones: En México, el patrón de CEA es prevalente; por su naturaleza de riesgo y su amplia distribución poblacional, es prioritario implementar intervenciones preventivas individuales y de salud pública.

Abstract: Objective: Estimate the magnitude of binge drinking and its association with individual, family, and social factors between August to November 2020 in Mexico. Materials and methods: Based on the data from National Health and Nutrition Survey 2020 Covid-19, 8 595 adults over 20 years old were analyzed. Stratified logistic regression models by sex were estimated obtaining odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). Results: The binge drinking reported was 40.43%; in men 56.49% and in women 25.70%. The main associated factors were being a man (OR=3.66; 95%CI: 3.22,4.17), age 20 to 29 years (OR=3.56; 95%CI: 2.89,4.63), going to work during the pandemic (OR=1.56; 95%CI: 1.33,1.81), and having two or more people of school children (OR=1.20; 95%CI: 1.03,1.39). Conclusions: The binge drinking pattern in Mexico is prevalent; due to the risky nature and the wide population distribution, it is a priority to implement individual preventive and public health interventions.

[Social factors associated with tobacco and alcohol consumption in Mexican adolescents from populations under 100 000 inhabitants.] / Factores sociales asociados con el consumo de tabaco y alcohol en adolescentes mexicanos de poblaciones menores a 100 000 habitantes.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the social factors associated with tobacco and alcohol consumption in Mexican adolescents from populations under 100 000 inhabitants. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study based on the National Health and Nutrition Survey (Ensanut100k). It included adolescents between 10-19 years. Adjusted logistic regression models were estimated, obtaining Odds Ratio (OR) and confidence intervals 95% (CI95%). RESULTS: Prevalence of tobacco consumption in the last month was 5.5% (10-14 years= 1.0%, 15-19 years= 11.2%); alcohol consumption 9.3%, and excessive alcohol consumption, 2.8%. Associated factors: smoking, sex (male, OR=6.00, CI95%: 2.89-12.46), age (OR=1.73, CI95%: 1.46-2.04), remunerated work (OR=2.87, CI95%: 1.12-7.34), affiliation to health services (OR=0.26, CI95%: 0.08-0.82); alcohol consumption, (male, OR=5.11, CI95%: 2.38-11.00), age (OR=1.70, CI95%: 1.51-1.92), remunerated work (OR=2.51, CI95%: 1.01-6.24). CONCLUSIONS: To reduce the consumption of alcohol and tobacco in adolescents, comprehensive prevention strategies must be implemented that consider the individual and social context.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar los factores sociales asociados con el consumo de tabaco y alcohol en adolescentes mexicanos de poblaciones menores a 100 000 habitantes. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal a partir de resultados de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud y Nutrición (Ensanut 100k) que se enfocó en adolescentes de entre 10 y 19 años. Se estimaron modelos de regresión logística ajustados y se obtuvieron razones de momios (RM) e intervalos de confianza al 95% (IC95%). RESULTADOS: La prevalencia de consumo de tabaco en el último mes fue de 5.5% (10-14 años=1.0%, 15-19 años= 11.2%); de consumo de alcohol, 9.3%, y de consumo excesivo de alcohol, 2.8%. Factores asociados: consumo de tabaco, sexo (hombre, RM= 6.00; IC95%: 2.89-12.46), edad (RM=1.73; IC95%: 1.46-2.04), trabajo remunerado (RM= 2.87; IC95%: 1.12-7.34) y afiliación a servicios de salud (RM= 0.26; IC95%: 0.08-0.82); consumo de alcohol, (hombre, RM= 5.11; IC95%: 2.38-11.0), edad (RM= 1.70; IC95%: 1.51-1.92) y trabajo remunerado (RM= 2.51; IC95%: 1.01-6.24). CONCLUSIONES: Para reducir el consumo de alcohol y tabaco en adolescentes deben implementarse estrategias de prevención integrales que tomen en cuenta el contexto individual y social.

Factores sociales asociados con el consumo de tabaco y alcohol en adolescentes mexicanos de poblaciones menores a 100 000 habitantes / Social factors associated with tobacco and alcohol consumption in Mexican adolescents from populations under 100 000 inhabitants

Resumen: Objetivo: Evaluar los factores sociales asociados con el consumo de tabaco y alcohol en adolescentes mexicanos de poblaciones menores a 100 000 habitantes. Material y métodos: Estudio transversal a partir de resultados de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud y Nutrición (Ensanut 100k) que se enfocó en adolescentes de entre 10 y 19 años. Se estimaron modelos de regresión logística ajustados y se obtuvieron razones de momios (RM) e intervalos de confianza al 95% (IC95%). Resultados: La prevalencia de consumo de tabaco en el último mes fue de 5.5% (10-14 años=1.0%, 15-19 años= 11.2%); de consumo de alcohol, 9.3%, y de consumo excesivo de alcohol, 2.8%. Factores asociados: consumo de tabaco, sexo (hombre, RM= 6.00; IC95%: 2.89-12.46), edad (RM=1.73; IC95%: 1.46-2.04), trabajo remunerado (RM= 2.87; IC95%: 1.12-7.34) y afiliación a servicios de salud (RM= 0.26; IC95%: 0.08-0.82); consumo de alcohol, (hombre, RM= 5.11; IC95%: 2.38-11.0), edad (RM= 1.70; IC95%: 1.51-1.92) y trabajo remunerado (RM= 2.51; IC95%: 1.01-6.24). Conclusiones: Para reducir el consumo de alcohol y tabaco en adolescentes deben implementarse estrategias de prevención integrales que tomen en cuenta el contexto individual y social.

Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the social factors associated with tobacco and alcohol consumption in Mexican adolescents from populations under 100 000 inhabitants. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional study based on the National Health and Nutrition Survey (Ensanut100k). It included adolescents between 10-19 years. Adjusted logistic regression models were estimated, obtaining Odds Ratio (OR) and confidence intervals 95% (CI95%). Results: Prevalence of tobacco consumption in the last month was 5.5% (10-14 years= 1.0%, 15-19 years= 11.2%); alcohol consumption 9.3%, and excessive alcohol consumption, 2.8%. Associated factors: smoking, sex (male, OR=6.00, CI95%: 2.89-12.46), age (OR=1.73, CI95%: 1.46-2.04), remunerated work (OR=2.87, CI95%: 1.12-7.34), affiliation to health services (OR=0.26, CI95%: 0.08-0.82); alcohol consumption, (male, OR=5.11, CI95%: 2.38-11.00), age (OR=1.70, CI95%: 1.51-1.92), remunerated work (OR=2.51, CI95%: 1.01-6.24). Conclusions: To reduce the consumption of alcohol and tobacco in adolescents, comprehensive prevention strategies must be implemented that consider the individual and social context.

[Sexual intercourse debut and associated factors in Mexican students aged 14-19 years in public schools]. / Inicio de relaciones sexuales con penetración y factores asociados en chicos y chicas de México de 14-19 años de edad con escolarización en centros públicos.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the mean age of sexual intercourse debut (SID) and associated family and individual factors in 14-19-year-olds of both sexes in the 32 states of Mexico in 2007. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted of a representative sample of 9,893 students aged between 14 and 19 years old. The data were collected through a self-administered, anonymous and voluntary questionnaire. Logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) by category: no SID, SID at 10-15 years and SID at 16-19 years. RESULTS: The national mean age of SID was 16 years, being 15 years for boys (95%CI: 15.88-16.11) and 16 years for girls (95%CI: 15.26-15.42). Factors associated with SID in boys were disadvantaged socioeconomic level (OR=0.66; 95%CI: 0.46-0.94), living with parents (OR=0.65; 95%CI: 0.56-0.75), less offensive communication between parents and boys/girls (OR=0.66; 95%CI: 0.57-0.77), and high social self-esteem (OR=1.68; 95%CI: 1.35-1.77). Factors associated with SID in girls were traditional gender beliefs (OR=0.49; 95%CI: 0.32-0.74), high depressive symptoms (OR=1.88; 95%CI: 1.19-2.99), and high family self-esteem (OR= 0.50; 95%CI: 0.38-0.65). CONCLUSIONS: In Mexico, SID occurred early in boys. In addition, the findings of this study show that in Mexico, the age of SID and associated factors differ in boys and girls. The age of SID is strongly influenced by gender and cultural beliefs.

[Sociodemographic and reproductive characteristics associated with the increase of cesarean section practice in Mexico]. / Características sociodemográficas y reproductivas asociadas con el aumento de cesáreas en México.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the trend of cesarean section practice in Mexico, and its association with women's sociodemographic and reproductive characteristics. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Based on the 2000, 2006 and 2012 National Health Surveys, information on c-section was analyzed. A multivariate logistic regression model was used in 2012. RESULTS: A 50.3% increase in the use of c-section was observed nationally from 2000 to 2012. Women more likely to undergo a c-section include those whose delivery care takes place in the private sector (OR=2.84, 95%CI:2.15-3.74). When associating women's age and parity, the greatest risks are observed among primiparous women between 12 and 19 years of age, and those aged 35 years and more (OR=6.02, 95%CI:1.24-29.26 and OR=5.20, 95%CI:2.41-11.21, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Some recommendations to revert the increase of this clinical practice, especially when there is no full justification for its realization, are proposed.

Características sociodemográficas y reproductivas asociadas con el aumento de cesáreas en México / Sociodemographic and reproductive characteristics associated with the increase of cesarean section practice in Mexico

Objetivo. Describir la tendencia de la cesárea en México y su asociación con características sociodemográficas y reproductivas. Material y métodos. Con base en En-cuestas Nacionales de Salud 2000, 2006 y 2012, se analizó información de cesáreas en mujeres. Se utilizó un modelo de regresión logística multivariado en 2012. Resultados. Se identificó un incremento de 50.3% de la operación cesárea a nivel nacional en el periodo de 2000 a 2012. Las mujeres con mayor posibilidad de tener una cesárea fueron las que se atendieron en el sector privado (RM=2.84, 95%IC:2.153.74). Al asociar la edad y la paridad se observan los riesgos más altos en primíparas de 12 a 19 y de 35 o más años (RM=6.02, 95%IC:1.24-29.26 y RM=5.20, 95%IC:2.41-11.21, respectivamente). Conclusiones. Se proponen algunas recomendaciones encaminadas a revertir el incremento de esta práctica clínica, sobre todo en aquellos casos donde no hay una indicación precisa para su realización.

Objective. To describe the trend of cesarean section practice in Mexico, and its association with women's sociodemographic and reproductive characteristics. Materials and methods. Based on the 2000, 2006 and 2012 National Health Surveys, information on c-section was analyzed. A multivariate logistic regression model was used in 2012. Results. A 50.3% increase in the use of c-section was observed nationally from 2000 to 2012. Women more likely to undergo a c-section include those whose delivery care takes place in the private sector (OR=2.84, 95%CI:2.15-3.74). When associating women's age and parity, the greatest risks are observed among primiparous women between 12 and 19 years of age, and those aged 35 years and more (OR=6.02, 95%CI:1.24-29.26 and OR=5.20, 95%CI:2.41-11.21, respectively). Conclusions. Some recommendations to revert the increase of this clinical practice, especially when there is no full justification for its realization, are proposed.

Factores del abuso sexual en la niñez y la adolescencia en estudiantes de Morelos, México / Factors for sexual abuse during childhood and adolescence in students of Morelos, Mexico / Fatores de abuso sexual na infância e adolescência de estudantes de Morelos, México

OBJETIVO: Estimar la prevalencia y los factores asociados al abuso sexual en niñez y adolescencia. MÉTODOS: Estudio realizado en una muestra de estudiantes del estado de Morelos, México, en 2004-2005. Los participantes (n=1730) pertenecen a una cohorte de 13.293 estudiantes de 12 a 24 años. Los datos fueron colectados mediante la aplicación de un cuestionario conteniendo secciones de escalas validadas. Las variables analizadas fueron: factores sociodemográficos (sexo, zona de habitación, nivel socioeconómico); familiares (educación de los padres, adicciones de los padres, violencia entre padres); psicológicos individuales (autoestima - Inventario de Autoestima de Coopersmith, depresión, consumo de alcohol); violencia intrafamiliar (Escala de Strauss); y abuso sexual. Mediante regresión logística múltiple se evaluaron los factores asociados. Se obtuvieron Razones de Momios (RM) con intervalos de confianza al 95%. RESULTADOS: El 4.7% (n=80) de los (as) estudiantes presentaron intento de abuso y el 2.9% (n=50) fueron víctimas de abuso sexual consumado. Las mujeres tuvieron mayor prevalencia de intento (6.1%). El 3.6% de las mujeres y el 1.9% de los hombres fueron abusados sexualmente. Principal agresor en mujeres fue el novio y en hombres una persona desconocida. Edad promedio de 12.02 años en mujeres y 11.71 en hombres. Factores asociados al abuso: mayor consumo de alcohol padres (RM = 3.37; IC 95% 1.40;8.07); violencia hacia madre (RM=4.49; IC 95% 1.54;13.10); ser mujer (RM = 2.47; IC 95% 1.17;5.24); ser víctima de violencia intrafamiliar alta (RM=3.58; IC 95% 1.32;9.67). Autoestima alta fue un factor protector (RM=0.27; IC 95% 0.09;0.75). CONCLUSIONES: En promedio el abuso sexual se presenta a los 12 años de edad en ambos sexos, siendo más frecuente en el sexo femenino. La mayoría de víctimas no lo denuncia.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence and factors associated with sexual abuse in childhood and adolescence.METHODS: Study conducted in a sample of students in the state of Morelos, Mexico, in 2004-2005. Participants (n=1730) were drawn from a cohort of 13,293 students aged 12 to 24 years. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire comprising parts of validated scales. The variables studied were: sociodemographic (gender, living area, socioeconomic status), family (parental education, parental addictions, violence between parents), individual psychological factors (self-esteem assessed using the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory, depression, alcohol consumption), intrafamily violence (assessed through Strauss Scale) and sexual abuse. Multiple logistic regression assessed the risk factors associated. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals were estimated.RESULTS: Of all students studied, 4.7% (n=80) reported attempted sexual abuse and 2.9% (n=50) were victims of consummated sexual abuse. Women had higher prevalence of attempted (6.1%) abuse; 3.6% of females and 1.9% of men were sexually abused. Main perpetrators were boyfriends in women and a stranger in men. Mean age was 12.02 years old among females and 11.71 years old among men. Factors found to be associated with abuse: high parental alcohol consumption (OR = 3.37, 95% CI 1.40;8.07), violence toward the mother (OR = 4.49, 95% CI 1.54;13.10), female gender (OR = 2.47, 95% CI 1.17;5.24), being a victim of great domestic violence (OR = 3.58, 95% CI 1.32;9.67). High self-esteem was a protective factor (OR = 0.27, 95% CI 0.09;0.75). CONCLUSIONS: Overall sexual abuse occurs at the age of 12 in both males and females, and it is more frequent among females. Most victims do not report abuse.

OBJETIVO: Estimar a prevalência e fatores associados ao abuso sexual infantil e na adolescência. MÉTODOS: Estudo realizado em amostra de estudantes do estado de Morelos, México, entre 2004 e 2005. Os participantes (n=1730) pertencem a uma coorte de 13.293 estudantes de 12 a 24 anos. Os dados foram coletados por meio de questionário formado por partes de escalas validadas. As variáveis analisadas foram: fatores sociodemográficos (sexo, zona de residência, nível socioeconômico); familiares (educação dos pais, vícios dos pai, violência entre pais); psicológicos individuais (autoestima- Inventario de Autoestima de Coopersmith, depressão, consumo de álcool); violência intrafamiliar (Escala de Strauss); e abuso sexual. As variáveis dependentes analisadas foram a intenção e o abuso sexual consumado. Os fatores associados foram analisados por meio de regressão logística múltipla, com odds ratios e respectivos intervalos de 95% de confiança (IC 95%). RESULTADOS: Do total, 4,7% (n=80) dos alunos reportaram terem sofrido intenção de abuso e 2,9% foram vítimas de abuso sexual consumado. As mulheres relataram maior prevalência de intenção (6,1%). Foram abusados sexualmente 3,6% das mulheres e 1,9% dos homens. O principal agressor das mulheres foi o namorado e dos homens, uma pessoa desconhecida. A idade do abuso foi de 12,02 anos para mulheres e 11,71 para os homens. Os fatores associados ao abuso foi o maior consumo de álcool pelos pais (RM = 3.37; IC 95% 1.40;8.07); violência contra a mãe (OR=4.49; IC 95%1.54;13.10); ser mulher (OR= 2.47; IC 95%1.17;5.24); ser vítima de violência intrafamiliar alta (OR=3.58; IC 95%1.32;9.67). Autoestima alta foi um fator protetor (RM=0.27; IC 95% 0.09;0.75). CONCLUSÕES: A média de idade do abuso sexual foi de 12 anos em ambos os sexos, sendo mais freqüente entre as do sexo feminino. A maioria das vítimas não denuncia o abuso.

[Factors for sexual abuse during childhood and adolescence in students of Morelos, Mexico]. / Factores del abuso sexual en la niñez y la adolescencia en estudiantes de Morelos, México.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence and factors associated with sexual abuse in childhood and adolescence. METHODS: Study conducted in a sample of students in the state of Morelos, Mexico, in 2004-2005. Participants (n=1730) were drawn from a cohort of 13,293 students aged 12 to 24 years. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire comprising parts of validated scales. The variables studied were: sociodemographic (gender, living area, socioeconomic status), family (parental education, parental addictions, violence between parents), individual psychological factors (self-esteem assessed using the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory, depression, alcohol consumption), intrafamily violence (assessed through Strauss Scale) and sexual abuse. Multiple logistic regression assessed the risk factors associated. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals were estimated. RESULTS: Of all students studied, 4.7% (n=80) reported attempted sexual abuse and 2.9% (n=50) were victims of consummated sexual abuse. Women had higher prevalence of attempted (6.1%) abuse; 3.6% of females and 1.9% of men were sexually abused. Main perpetrators were boyfriends in women and a stranger in men. Mean age was 12.02 years old among females and 11.71 years old among men. Factors found to be associated with abuse: high parental alcohol consumption (OR = 3.37, 95% CI 1.40;8.07), violence toward the mother (OR = 4.49, 95% CI 1.54;13.10), female gender (OR = 2.47, 95% CI 1.17;5.24), being a victim of great domestic violence (OR = 3.58, 95% CI 1.32;9.67). High self-esteem was a protective factor (OR = 0.27, 95% CI 0.09;0.75). CONCLUSIONS: Overall sexual abuse occurs at the age of 12 in both males and females, and it is more frequent among females. Most victims do not report abuse.

[Determinants of partner violence in health workers of IMSS, Morelos]. / Determinantes de violencia de pareja en trabajadoras del IMSS morelos.

OBJECTIVE: To study the prevalence of partner violence, and to identify the associated risk factors in a sample of female workers of IMSS (Mexican Social Security Institute), Morelos State. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional data from 1 173 women participating in the cohort study of IMSS workers are utilized to study these associations. The study provides information on frequency of psychological, physical or sexual violence and perception of severity during the 12 months prior to the time of data collection. It was carried out in Morelos between October 1998 and March 2000. Polytomous logistic regression models were used to obtain odds ratios for different degrees of partner violence. RESULTS: A high prevalence of partner violence is observed in the sample. Main factors associated with higher severity of violence are state of the relationship and alcohol intake, emotional status of the couple at home, work burden of the woman, and a history of violence in childhood. CONCLUSIONS: All these factors are potentially modifiable through interventions aimed at stress reduction. These results should be considered when developing preventive programs against partner violence in Mexico.

Determinantes de violencia de pareja en trabajadoras del IMSS morelos / Determinants of partner violence in health workers of IMSS, Morelos

OBJETIVO: Identificar la ocurrencia de violencia de pareja y evaluar los factores asociados a este fenómeno en una muestra de trabajadoras del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS) Morelos. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Un total de 1 173 mujeres de la cohorte de trabajadores del IMSS proporcionó información sobre frecuencia y percepción de severidad de violencia psicológica, física o sexual durante los últimos 12 meses. El estudio se realizó en el estado de Morelos, entre octubre de 1998 y marzo de 2000. Se emplearon modelos de regresión logística politómica a fin de estimar razones de momios para distintos grados de violencia. RESULTADOS: Se observó una alta prevalencia de violencia. Los principales factores asociados fueron la relación de pareja y el consumo de alcohol; el estado emocional de la pareja en el hogar; la tensión laboral de la mujer y los antecedentes de violencia en la infancia. CONCLUSIONES: Los principales factores determinantes de violencia de pareja son potencialmente modificables a través de intervenciones que ayuden a manejar el nivel de tensión. Es necesario tomar en cuenta estos hallazgos al planear programas preventivos de violencia de pareja en México.

OBJECTIVE: To study the prevalence of partner violence, and to identify the associated risk factors in a sample of female workers of IMSS (Mexican Social Security Institute), Morelos State. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional data from 1 173 women participating in the cohort study of IMSS workers are utilized to study these associations. The study provides information on frequency of psychological, physical or sexual violence and perception of severity during the 12 months prior to the time of data collection. It was carried out in Morelos between October 1998 and March 2000. Polytomous logistic regression models were used to obtain odds ratios for different degrees of partner violence. RESULTS: A high prevalence of partner violence is observed in the sample. Main factors associated with higher severity of violence are state of the relationship and alcohol intake, emotional status of the couple at home, work burden of the woman, and a history of violence in childhood. CONCLUSIONS: All these factors are potentially modifiable through interventions aimed at stress reduction. These results should be considered when developing preventive programs against partner violence in Mexico.

Prevalence and correlates of adolescent dating violence: baseline study of a cohort of 7,960 male and female Mexican public school students.

INTRODUCTION: Factors correlated with adolescent dating violence have yet to be documented in most developing countries; this study assesses the prevalence and correlates of victimization with and perpetration of dating violence among Mexican youth. METHODS: This was the baseline measurement (1998-1999) of a cohort of 7960 public school students (11-24 years) developed to explore various health behaviors in Mexican youth. Multinomial logistic regression models were constructed with adolescent dating violence as the dependent variable. RESULTS: Prevalence of dating violence victimization was 9.37% (female) and 8.57% (male) for psychological violence; 9.88% (female) and 22.71% (male) for physical violence, and 8.63% (female) and 15.15% (male) for both psychological and physical violence. Prevalence of perpetration was 4.21% (female) and 4.33% (male) for psychological violence; 20.99% (female) and 19.54% (male) for physical violence; and 7.48% (female) and 5.51% (male) for both types of violence. Factors associated with dating violence victimization for both genders included: two or more lifetime sexual partners and intra-familial violence. Higher age, alcohol use and illegal drug use were significantly associated with victimization only among girls. The following were significantly associated with perpetration of dating violence in both genders: gang membership, illegal drug use, two or more lifetime sexual partners and intra-familial violence. Higher age and alcohol use were significantly associated with perpetration only among girls. High or middle socio-economic status was associated with perpetration only in boys. CONCLUSIONS: Future research on adolescent dating violence in Mexico should further explore severity and frequency of violent behaviors, include a focus on severe dating violence and take into account the context and meaning of dating violence. A longitudinal design that allows determination of causality will also be needed in order to develop prevention strategies.

Intra-familial physical violence among Mexican and Egyptian youth.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of experiencing intra-familial violence among Mexican and Egyptian youth and to describe its associated risk factors. METHODS: Data from questionnaires applied to 12,862 Mexican and 5,662 Egyptian youth, aged 10 to 19, who attended public schools were analyzed. Biviarate and logistic regression analysis were used to determine the relationship between socio-demographics, the experience of intra-familial violence and violence perpetration. RESULTS: The prevalence of having experienced intra-familial violence was comparable across the Mexican and Egyptian populations (14% and 17%, respectively). In Mexico, young men were more likely to have experienced such violence (OR=2.36) than women, whereas in Egypt, young women were at slightly greater risk than young men (OR=1.25). Older age, male gender and urban residence were independent correlates of experiencing intra-familial violence among Mexican youth. For Egyptian adolescents, in contrast, younger age, female gender and having non-married parents were independent correlates of victimization. Intra-familial violence victims were also more likely than non-victims to perpetrate violence (Mexico: OR=13.13; Egypt: OR=6.58). CONCLUSIONS: Mexican and Egyptian youth experienced intra-familial violence at a relatively low prevalence when compared with youth of other countries. A strong association was found between experiencing intra-familial violence and perpetrating violence.

Intra-familial physical violence among Mexican and Egyptian youth

OBJETIVO: Determinar a prevalência da violência intra-familiar sofrida por jovens mexicanos e egípcios, e descrever os fatores de risco associados. MÉTODOS: Os dados analisados foram obtidos de questionários aplicados a 12.862 mexicanos e 5.662 egípcios, jovens de 10 a 19 anos, que freqüentam escolas públicas. O relacionamento entre fatores sociodemográficos, a violência sofrida e sua perpetração foram investigados por meio de análise bivariada e regressão logística. RESULTADOS: A prevalência de violência intra-familiar foi comparável entre as populações mexicana e egípcia (14 por cento e 17 por cento, respectivamente). No México, essa violência foi muito mais provável entre os homens jovens do que entre mulheres (OR=2,36), enquanto que no Egito era mais provável entre as mulheres jovens do que homens (OR=1,25). Idade mais elevada, gênero masculino e residência urbana são fatores associados a violência intra-familiar entre jovens mexicanos. Entre jovens egípcios, a idade mais baixa,o gênero feminino e pais não casados foram fatores associados a essa violência. Foi mais provável a repetição da violência pelos jovens que eram vítimas da violência intra-familiar (México: OR=13,13; Egito: OR=6,58). CONCLUSÕES: A prevalência de experimentar a violência intra-familiar de jovens mexicanos e egípcios foi baixa em comparação com jovens em outros países. Houve forte associação entre vítimas de violência intra-familiar e a repetição da violência.

Violencia contra la mujer: conocimiento y actitud del personal médico del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Morelos, México / Violence against women: knowledge and attitudes of healthcare providers at the Mexican Institute of Social Security in Morelos, Mexico

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la actitud afectiva, cognoscitiva y conductual del personal médico del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social del estado de Morelos, México, hacia la identificación y canalización de mujeres maltratadas que acuden a consulta médica, así como identificar las barreras institucionales y de la práctica médica que dificultan el manejo dentro de los servicios de salud de las mujeres maltratadas. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: De septiembre a diciembre de 1999 se realizó un estudio transversal mediante un cuestionario de autoaplicación que se proporcionó a 269 médicos y médicas generales, especialistas y estudiantes de pre y posgrado que laboran en 30 unidades de salud, de primer y segundo nivel de atención, del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social del estado de Morelos. El instrumento se diseñó para evaluar el nivel de conocimiento sobre violencia doméstica y la actitud del personal médico hacia la atención, en la consulta, de mujeres maltratadas. Se construyó un índice de conocimiento, además de un análisis multivariado de los datos. RESULTADOS: El 90 por ciento de los entrevistados nunca ha recibido capacitación en violencia contra la mujer. La actitud afectiva y cognoscitiva del personal médico que recibió capacitación sobre el tema fue más favorable hacia la identificación y atención de mujeres maltratadas que llegan a consulta médica, en comparación con los que no la recibieron. Sobre el nivel de conocimiento acerca del tema, 21 por ciento de los entrevistados mostró un nivel bajo, 63 por ciento medio y 16 por ciento alto. En el personal médico, con nivel de conocimiento medio y alto, se observó 2.1 y 6 veces -respectivamente- una actitud afectiva más favorable respecto a la identificación y canalización de casos de mujeres maltratadas en comparación con el personal con nivel de conocimiento bajo. Las médicas mostraron 2.3 veces mejor actitud para identificar y canalizar mujeres maltratadas. El personal médico con interés por capacitarse...

OBJECTIVE: To asses the affective, cognitive, and behavioral attitudes of healthcare providers at the Mexican Institute of Social Security (MISS) in Morelos, Mexico; to identify the institutional and medical practice barriers that hinder screening and reference of battered women. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted between September and December 1999. A self-administered questionnaire was applied to 269 general practitioners, specialists, and pre- and postdoctoral students working in 30 primary and secondary level of healthcare units in Morelos State. The data collection instrument was designed to assess healthcare providers' knowledge of and attitudes towards domestic violence during medical office visits. A knowledge index was constructed and analyzed using multivariate regression methods. RESULTS: Ninety percent of healthcare providers had never received training on violence against women. Healthcare providers' affective and cognitive attitudes after receiving training on the subject matter were more favorable compared to those with no training. Favorable attitudes were directly related to the number of training sessions. Most participants (63 percent) showed a moderate degree of knowledge on the subject, whereas 21 percent were slightly knowledgeable and 16 percent were highly knowledgeable. Medical personnel with a moderate or high level of knowledge were 2.1 and 6 times more likely, respectively, to have favorable attitudes than those with a low degree of knowledge. Female physicians showed more favorable attitudes towards identifying and referring battered women. Medical personnel interested in further training on the subject of violence against women were 7.6 times more likely to show favorable attitudes than personnel not interested on the subject. CONCLUSIONS: Healthcare providers were not sufficiently able to assess and manage battered women. General and family practitioners were more interested in being...

[Affection, kisses, and condoms: the ABC of sexual practices of female sex workers in Mexico City]. / Afecto, besos y condones: el ABC de las prácticas sexuales de las trabajadoras sexuales de la Ciudad de México.

OBJECTIVE: To describe and explore the meanings of sexual practices among female sex workers (FSW) in Mexico City. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A qualitative and quantitative study was carried out. The qualitative approach was conducted in 1992 and the latter from 1991 to 1992. The study population was a representative sample of FSW (n = 335) who completed a questionnaire; 52 of them also participated in six focal groups. Simple frequencies, central trend, and dispersion measures were calculated. Qualitative data were interpreted using Grounded Theory and a feminist perspective. RESULTS: Female sex workers accepted vaginal penetration with clients and oral penetration to a lesser extent, while anal penetration and kissing were rejected. All sexual modalities were accepted with personal partners. In their practice, FSW use psychophysical dissociation as a psychological defense mechanism and to construct their identities. Services requested by their latest clients were: 98.4% vaginal, 39.1% oral, and 7.7% anal sex. Condom use was reported by 94%. With their personal partner, 72.6% of FSW never used condoms. The week before the study, FSW worked 3.7 +/- 1.5 days on average and had sexual intercourse with 8.6 +/- 8.1 clients. CONCLUSIONS: Interventions are needed to promote safe sex among FSW in their private and professional lives. The English version of this paper is available at:http://www.insp.mx/salud/index.html.

[Violence against women: knowledge and attitudes of the the medical staff at the Mexican Institute of Social Security, Morelos, Mexico]. / Violencia contra la mujer: conocimiento y actitud del personal médico del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Morelos, México.

OBJECTIVE: To asses the affective, cognitive, and behavioral attitudes of healthcare providers at the Mexican Institute of Social Security (MISS) in Morelos, Mexico; to identify the institutional and medical practice barriers that hinder screening and reference of battered women. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted between September and December 1999. A self-administered questionnaire was applied to 269 general practitioners, specialists, and pre- and postdoctoral students working in 30 primary and secondary level of healthcare units in Morelos State. The data collection instrument was designed to assess healthcare providers' knowledge of and attitudes towards domestic violence during medical office visits. A knowledge index was constructed and analyzed using multivariate regression methods. RESULTS: Ninety percent of healthcare providers had never received training on violence against women. Healthcare providers' affective and cognitive attitudes after receiving training on the subject matter were more favorable compared to those with no training. Favorable attitudes were directly related to the number of training sessions. Most participants (63%) showed a moderate degree of knowledge on the subject, whereas 21% were slightly knowledgeable and 16% were highly knowledgeable. Medical personnel with a moderate or high level of knowledge were 2.1 and 6 times more likely, respectively, to have favorable attitudes than those with a low degree of knowledge. Female physicians showed more favorable attitudes towards identifying and referring battered women. Medical personnel interested in further training on the subject of violence against women were 7.6 times more likely to show favorable attitudes than personnel not interested on the subject. CONCLUSIONS: Healthcare providers were not sufficiently able to assess and manage battered women. General and family practitioners were more interested in being trained, as compared with specialist physicians. Training on violence against women should be included in graduate medical, nursing, social service, psychology, and other public health areas. The English version of this paper is available at:http://www.insp.mx/salud/index.html.

Afecto, besos y condones: el ABC de las prácticas sexuales de las trabajadoras sexuales de la Ciudad de México / Affection, kisses and condoms: the basics of sexual practices of female sex workers in Mexico City

OBJETIVO: Describir las prácticas sexuales de las trabajadoras sexuales de la Ciudad de México y explorar qué significan para ellas. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se trata de un estudio de abordaje cualitativo y cuantitativo llevado a cabo, el primero, en 1992 y, el segundo, de 1991 a 1992. Una muestra representativa de trabajadoras sexuales (n=335) de un marco muestral respondió a un cuestionario y 52 de ellas participaron en seis grupos focales. Se calcularon frecuencias simples, medidas de tendencia central y de dispersión. Los datos cualitativos se interpretaron a la luz de la teoría fundamentada y la perspectiva feminista. RESULTADOS: Con clientes las trabajadoras sexuales aceptan la penetración vaginal y (menos) la oral, mientras rechazan la penetración anal y los besos. Con parejas personales todas las prácticas sexuales son aceptadas. En su vida profesional las trabajadoras sexuales usan la disociación psico-corporal como una estrategia de defensa psicológica y para construir su identidad. Los servicios solicitados por el último cliente fueron: 98.4 por ciento vaginal, 39.1 por ciento oral, 7.7 por ciento anal y se reportó uso del condón con 94 por ciento. Con la pareja personal, 72.6 por ciento de las trabajadoras sexuales reportaron nunca usar el condón. La semana anterior al estudio las trabajadoras sexuales laboraron, en promedio, 3.7±1.5 días y tuvieron relaciones sexuales con 8.6 /±8.1 clientes. CONCLUSIONES: Es necesario diseñar intervenciones que promuevan el sexo seguro entre trabajadoras sexuales en sus vidas privadas y profesionales.

[Validation of a questionnaire for measurement of beliefs about the climacteric]. / Validación de un cuestionario para la medición de las creencias sobre el climaterio.

OBJECTIVE: To design an instrument for measuring beliefs about the social, psychological, and physiological consequences of women's climacteric stage. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study included 340 women affiliated to Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales para los Trabajadores del Estado (Institute for Social Services and Security for State Workers, ISSSTE) (age mean = 49.46, (SD 7.92). The mean number of pregnancies in the sample was 3.75 (SD 2.57), and the mean number of born children was 3.21 (SD 2.19); 48% of women were premenopausal, 10.9% perimenopausal, and 40.6% postmenopausal. The instrument consisted of 25 items. RESULTS: A factorial analysis with Varimax rotation was carried out. Four factors were confirmed: disadvantages (alpha = 0.769), advantages (alpha = 0.839), physiological (alpha = 0.659), and psychological (alpha = 0.711). CONCLUSION: This instrument shows good internal consistency, and measures four climacteric belief groups: a) beliefs on disadvantages, b) beliefs on advantages, c) beliefs on physiological ailments, and d) beliefs on psychological symptoms. All three confirmed dimensions of the climacteric phase have been proposed in other studies.