Prevalence and factors associated with metabolic syndrome in 6-10-year-old children

Abstract Aims: to identify the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and associated risk factors in children. Methods: a total of 1,480 Brazilian children aged 6-10 years old (52.2% girls) participated in this population-based, epidemiological cross-sectional study. The inclusion criteria were children born between the years 2001 and 2006, of both sexes, who did not use remedy, were not on a calorie restriction diet, and who respected the 12-hour fast for blood collection. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, blood collection, and completion of the Previous Day Food Questionnaire and interview using a Physical Activity List were held at school. Parents were asked to complete a questionnaire on socioeconomic status and lifestyle habits of their child. Chi-square test compared proportions and factors associated with MetS were identified using Poisson Regression. Results: Girls had significantly higher MetS prevalence compared with boys (12.6% vs. 8.5%, p=0.046). After multivariable analysis, body fat percentage (p=0.001), fat mass (p<0.001), lean body mass (p< 0.001) and sedentary behavior (p= 0.050) were positively associated with MetS. Conclusions: Modifiable factors such as body fat percentage, fat mass, lean body mass and sedentary behavior were associated with MetS in children. Thus, interventions targeted for weight management, and adopting healthy habits such as reducing time in front of TV/computer/video game need to be part of the lifestyle of children.(AU)

Quality of care for patients with non-communicable diseases in the Dedza District, Malawi

Introduction: In Malawi, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are thought to cause 28% of deaths in adults. The aim of this study was to establish the extent of primary care morbidity related to NCDs, as well as to audit the quality of care, in the primary care setting of Dedza District, central Malawi. Methods: This study was a baseline audit using clinic registers and a questionnaire survey of senior health workers at 5 clinics, focusing on care for hypertension, diabetes, asthma and epilepsy. Results: A total of 82 581 consultations were recorded, of which 2489 (3.0%) were for the selected NCDs. Only 5 out of 32 structural criteria were met at all 5 clinics and 9 out of 29 process criteria were never performed at any clinic. The only process criteria performed at all five clinics was measurement of blood pressure. The staff's knowledge on NCDs was basic and the main barriers to providing quality care were lack of medication and essential equipment, inadequate knowledge and guidelines, fee-for-service at two clinics, geographic inaccessibility and lack of confidence in the primary health care system by patients. Conclusion: Primary care morbidity from NCDs is currently low, although other studies suggest a significant burden of disease. This most likely represents a lack of utilisation, recognition, diagnosis and ability to manage patients with NCDs. Quality of care is poor due to a lack of essential resources, guidelines, and training