Analysis of sarcopenic obesity prevalence and diagnostic agreement according to the 2022 ESPEN and EASO Consensus in hospitalized older adults with severe obesity.

Background: Sarcopenic obesity (SO) is a clinical disorder characterized by increased adiposity and decreased muscle mass and function, commonly observed in older adults. However, most of the studies that investigated SO prevalence rates were not based on current standardized diagnostic methods. Thus, this study aims to estimate the prevalence rates of SO and their level of agreement using different instruments proposed by the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) and the European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO) Consensus, in a sample of hospitalized older adults with severe obesity. Methods: A cross-sectional study with 90 older adults (≥ 60 years) with severe obesity (body mass index ≥ 35 kg/m/²) seeking an in-hospital multidisciplinary body weight reduction program. Skeletal muscle function was assessed using the five-repetition Sit-Stand test (5-SSt) and Handgrip Strength (HGS). Body composition was evaluated by high percentages of fat mass (FM), low appendicular lean mass (ALM/W), and skeletal muscle mass (SMM/W), adjusted to body weight. The stage of SO was assessed on the presence of at least one comorbidity and specific cut-offs were adopted for each step. All analyses were performed according to gender and age range. Results: The prevalence rates of SO in the total sample were 23.3%, 25.5%, 31.1%, and 40.0% considering altered values of 5-SSt+FM+ALM/W, HGS+FM+ALM/W, 5-SSt+FMSSM/W, and HGS+FM+SSM/W, respectively. Higher prevalence rates were observed among female and old elderly subgroups, regardless of the diagnostic combination. There were weak agreements between the muscle function tests (5-SSt versus HGS) using both muscle mass indexes in the total sample and all subgroups. Moderate agreements were observed between muscle mass indexes (SMM/W versus ALM/W) in the total sample, male and younger older adults (using 5-SSt), and strong agreements for men and younger older adults (using HGS). Conclusion: The discrepancies observed between the prevalence rates and their levels of agreement reinforce the need for new studies in similar populations aiming for better standardization of SO assessment.

Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Chronic Occupational Low Back Pain among Healthcare Professionals Working at Hospitals: Exploratory Survey Study / Prevalência e fatores de risco associados a dor lombar ocupacional crônica entre profissionais da área da saúde que atuam em nível hospitalar: Estudo exploratório

Abstract Objective This study aimed to describe the methodological process for developing a questionnaire to identify the prevalence and risk factors for chronic occupational low back pain in healthcare professionals working at hospitals. Method An exploratory crossectional survey study was carried out in Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil, and its metropolitan region, in two stages. Initially, the authors prepared a questionnaire based on the Roland Morris disability questionnaire and sent it to a committee of low back pain specialists for validation using the Delphi technique. The second stage consisted of sending the final questionnaire to health professionals working in a hospital environment for at least 2 years and presenting chronic low back pain for at least 3 months. Results Validation occurred in two rounds of questionnaire adjustments by a panel consisting of physical therapists and physician experts in the field (orthopedists with more than 3 years of experience). Both rounds had 13 participants. The questionnaire initially consisted of 27 items, and, after validation, it had 19 items. The study included 65 subjects, with an average age of 40.91 years old and an average time working at a hospital of 40 hours per week. The total sample had 76.9% of physicians, 10.8% of physical therapists, and 12.3% of nurses or nursing technicians. Most (52.3%) subjects reported staying in uncomfortable positions affecting the lower back for 5 to 10 hours per day. Conclusion We developed and validated, using the Delphi technique, a questionnaire on the prevalence and risk factors associated with chronic occupational low back pain among healthcare professionals working at hospitals. This unprecedented tool can benefit the population studied since the questionnaires currently used to evaluate chronic low back pain are not specific for investigating the occupational cause of this condition.

Resumo Objetivo Este estudo pretende descrever o processo metodológico para a elaboração de um questionário para identificar a prevalência e os fatores de risco associados à dor lombar ocupacional crônica nos profissionais da área da saúde que atuam em nível hospitalar. Método Foi realizado um estudo transversal exploratório do tipo questionário. O estudo foi realizado na cidade de Belo Horizonte e região metropolitana, em duas etapas. Inicialmente foi elaborado pelos autores um questionário baseado no questionário de deficiências Roland Morris e enviado a um comitê de especialistas em lombalgia para validação do mesmo através da técnica Delphi. A segunda etapa consistiu em enviar o questionário final a profissionais de saúde que atuam em ambiente hospitalar há pelo menos 2 anos e que tenham lombalgia crônica há pelo menos 3 meses. Resultados A validação foi realizada em duas rodadas de adequações do questionário, com painel composto por fisioterapeutas e médicos especialistas na área (ortopedistas com mais de 3 anos de atuação). Ambas as rodadas contaram com 13 participantes. O questionário foi composto inicialmente por 27 itens e, após validação, 19 itens. O estudo incluiu 65 indivíduos, com idade média de 40,91 anos e tempo médio de atuação em nível hospitalar semanal de 40 horas. A amostra total possuía 76,9% médicos, 10,8% fisioterapeutas e 12,3% enfermeiros ou técnicos de enfermagem. A maioria (52,3%) dos indivíduos relatou manter-se em posições desconfortáveis que afetam a região lombar por 5 a 10 horas por dia. Conclusão Foi desenvolvido e validado, pela técnica Delphi, um questionário sobre a prevalência e fatores de risco associados a dor lombar ocupacional crônica entre profissionais da área da saúde que atuam em nível hospitalar. Este instrumento inédito pode trazer benefícios para a população estudada, visto que os questionários utilizados atualmente para a avaliação de dor lombar crônica não são específicos para a investigação da causa ocupacional de tal condição.

Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Chronic Occupational Low Back Pain among Healthcare Professionals Working at Hospitals: Exploratory Survey Study.

Objective This study aimed to describe the methodological process for developing a questionnaire to identify the prevalence and risk factors for chronic occupational low back pain in healthcare professionals working at hospitals. Method An exploratory crossectional survey study was carried out in Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil, and its metropolitan region, in two stages. Initially, the authors prepared a questionnaire based on the Roland Morris disability questionnaire and sent it to a committee of low back pain specialists for validation using the Delphi technique. The second stage consisted of sending the final questionnaire to health professionals working in a hospital environment for at least 2 years and presenting chronic low back pain for at least 3 months. Results Validation occurred in two rounds of questionnaire adjustments by a panel consisting of physical therapists and physician experts in the field (orthopedists with more than 3 years of experience). Both rounds had 13 participants. The questionnaire initially consisted of 27 items, and, after validation, it had 19 items. The study included 65 subjects, with an average age of 40.91 years old and an average time working at a hospital of 40 hours per week. The total sample had 76.9% of physicians, 10.8% of physical therapists, and 12.3% of nurses or nursing technicians. Most (52.3%) subjects reported staying in uncomfortable positions affecting the lower back for 5 to 10 hours per day. Conclusion We developed and validated, using the Delphi technique, a questionnaire on the prevalence and risk factors associated with chronic occupational low back pain among healthcare professionals working at hospitals. This unprecedented tool can benefit the population studied since the questionnaires currently used to evaluate chronic low back pain are not specific for investigating the occupational cause of this condition.

Association between vitamin D insufficiency and depressive symptoms, and functional disability in community-dwelling Brazilian older adults: results from ELSI-Brazil study.

Low serum 25(OH)D levels (< 30 nmol/L) have been associated with increased depressive symptom scores over time, and it is believed that functionality may play a mediating role in the relationship between 25(OH)D and depressive symptoms. To comprehend the association between these factors could have significant implications for public health policy. The aim of this study was to verify the association between simultaneous vitamin D insufficiency and depressive symptoms, and functional disability in community-dwelling older adults. This was a cross-sectional study with data from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil), collected between 2015 and 2016. The outcomes were functional disability assessed through basic activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL). The exposures were vitamin D insufficiency (< 30 nmol/L) and depressive symptoms (≥ 4 points in 8-item version of the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression). Crude and adjusted Poisson regression was performed to estimate associations. A total of 1781 community-dwelling older adults included in this study, 14.6% had disability in ADL and 47.9% in IADL; 59.7% had vitamin D insufficient levels, and 33.2% depressive symptoms. The concomitant presence of vitamin D insufficient and depressive symptoms increased the prevalence of ADL by 2.20 (95% CI: 1.25; 3.86) and IADL by 1.54 (95% CI: 1.24; 1.91), respectively. Therefore, preventive strategies to keep older adults physically and socially active, with a good level of vitamin D, are essential to avoid depression and functional disability.

Association between self-perception of the neighborhood environment and sleep problems in older Brazilian adults: findings from ELSI-Brazil.

This study aimed to investigate associations between neighborhood perception and sleep problems in older Brazilian adults. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 5,719 community-dwelling older adults (≥ 60 years) from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil, 2019-2021). The outcomes were self-reported sleep problems: poor sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, primary insomnia complaints, difficulty staying asleep, and waking up at dawn. The exposure variables were questions about the perception of participants about the physical and social environment of the neighborhood. Logistic regression was used in data analysis. Garbage, rubbish, or tall grass on the streets and the desire to move were associated with higher odds of poor sleep quality. Concern about falling due to damaged sidewalks, concern about having difficulties taking transportation, and concern about having difficulties crossing the street were associated with higher odds of all sleep problems. Sound/noise of buses and cars was associated with higher odds of some sleep problems. Perceiving the neighborhood as a good place to live was associated with lower odds of daytime sleepiness and primary insomnia complaints. Trusting most people in the neighborhood and perceiving that kids and younger people treat adults with respect were associated with lower odds of daytime sleepiness, primary insomnia complaints, and waking up at dawn. Being a good place for kids to play and raise teenagers was associated with lower odds of daytime sleepiness. These results can assist public administrators in creating urban planning policies aimed at improving neighborhood environments as a means of health promotion.

Assessment of intrinsic capacity in the Brazilian older population and the psychometric properties of the WHO/ ICOPE screening tool: a multicenter cohort study protocol / Avaliação da capacidade intrínseca da população idosa brasileira e das propriedades psicométricas do instrumento de triagem do ICOPE/OMS: protocolo de estudo de coorte multicêntrico

Introduction: The World Health Organization (WHO) has proposed to monitor intrinsic capacity (IC) in the older population as a public health strategy through the Integrated Care for Older People (ICOPE) program. Although the program has been developed based on solid concepts, scientific evidence on its practical applicability is still scarce. Objectives: To evaluate IC in Brazilian older adults, its progress over time, and its association with sociodemographic and health factors and outcomes. To evaluate the psychometric properties of the WHO/ICOPE screening tool. Methods: This is a prospective multicenter cohort study with a 36-month follow-up. We will recruit 3838 people aged ≥60 years, registered in the health care units included in the study by the participating centers. We will collect sociodemographic and health data and will administer tools to assess IC domains, both those provided for in the ICOPE screening tool and the sequence of confirmatory assessments provided for in the program. Participants will be reassessed every 6 months for 36 months. Expected results: To establish the profile of IC in the study population and to understand its progress and the variables associated with the clinical outcomes of interest. To reveal the diagnostic and psychometric properties of the WHO/ICOPE screening tool. The project is funded by the Brazilian National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq). Relevance: Understanding the potential use of the ICOPE public health strategy proposed by the WHO within the scope of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) by integrating several research centers in the field of Geriatrics and Gerontology throughout Brazil. (AU)

Introdução: A Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) propõe o monitoramento da capacidade intrínseca (CI) da população idosa como estratégia de saúde pública por meio do Programa ICOPE (Integrated Care for Older People). Embora construído com base em conceitos sólidos, a evidência científica sobre a aplicabilidade prática da proposta ainda é escassa. Objetivo: Avaliar a capacidade intrínseca da população idosa brasileira, sua trajetória e sua associação com variáveis sociodemográficas, de saúde e desfechos. Avaliar as propriedades psicométricas da ferramenta de triagem da estratégia ICOPE da OMS. Metodologia: Coorte multicêntrica prospectiva com seguimento de 36 meses. Serão recrutadas 3.838 pessoas com 60 anos ou mais, cadastradas nas unidades de saúde incluídas no estudo pelos centros participantes. Serão coletados dados sociodemográficos e de saúde e aplicados instrumentos para avaliação dos domínios da CI, tanto aqueles previstos no instrumento de triagem do ICOPE quanto a sequência de avaliações confirmatórias previstas no programa. Os participantes serão acompanhados semestralmente ao longo de 36 meses. Resultados esperados: Estabelecer o perfil da CI na população estudada, entender a sua trajetória e as variáveis associadas aos desfechos clínicos avaliados. Revelar as propriedades diagnósticas e o perfil psicométrico da ferramenta de triagem do ICOPE da OMS. O projeto tem financiamento do Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq). Relevância: Compreensão sobre o potencial de utilização da estratégia ICOPE de saúde pública proposta pela OMS no âmbito do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) pela integração de diversos centros de pesquisa científica na área de Geriatria e Gerontologia de todo o Brasil. (AU)

Worldwide prevalence of sleep problems in community-dwelling older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

The understanding of the prevalence of sleep problems in older adults can provide a broad and reliable perspective into the occurrence of such issues among older adults. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the worldwide prevalence of sleep problems in community-dwelling older adults. Studies that provide information on the prevalence of sleep problems in community-dwelling older adults (≥60 years) were screened between December 2022 and March 2023. A total of 20,379 studies were identified in database searches, from which 252 were included in this review. These studies covered the last 35 years (from 1988 to 2023) and pooled a sample of 995,544 participants from 36 countries. The most frequent sleep problem worldwide was obstructive sleep apnea (46.0%), followed by poor sleep quality (40.0%), other sleep problems (37.0%), insomnia (29.0%), and excessive daytime sleepiness (19.0%). No significant difference in the prevalence estimates of all sleep problems was observed between the sexes. This systematic review and meta-analysis showed a high prevalence of some sleep problems, mainly obstructive sleep apnea, poor sleep quality, and other sleep problems. Our estimates can be useful for managers and policymakers in planning healthcare strategies for sleep problems aimed at the older population.

Incidence and associated factors of surgical site infection in patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery: a 7-year cohort study.

Surgical site infections (SSI) constitute 31% of all hospital-acquired conditions, with ankle and foot surgical procedures showing an incidence of SSI ranging from 0.5% to 6.5%. This study aimed to assess the incidence of both superficial and deep surgical site infections in foot and ankle surgery, along with associated factors. Conducted as a retrospective cohort study, it included 2180 patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery in a private hospital between 2014 and 2020, encompassing elective and trauma cases. Outcome variables comprised SSI, while predictor variables encompassed sex, age, diabetes mellitus, systemic arterial hypertension, smoking, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, and body mass index. Logistic regression models were employed to identify associations between study variables. The incidence of surgical site infections stood at 4% (83/2180), comprising a rate of 2.8% (57/2180) for superficial infections and 1.2% (26/2180) for deep infections. Smoking (OR 2.9, 95%CI 1.4-5.3) and ASA score >2 (OR 3.4, 95%CI 1.2-8.4) emerged as independent factors associated with surgical site infections. The group with deep infections exhibited higher proportions of smokers (p = 0.002), systemic arterial hypertension (p = 0.018), trauma surgery (p = 0.049), and an ASA score >2 (p = 0.011). Overall infection incidence in this cohort reached 4%, with trauma cases, smoking, hypertension, and an ASA score >2 independently linked to deep infections. Surgeons should be cognizant of these risk factors when managing prophylactic antibiotic regimens for patients.

Cognitive function is associated with performance in time up and go test and with leptin blood levels in community-dwelling older women.

Considering the challenge that cognitive dysfunction and dementia represent to health is imperative to prioritize early diagnosis strategies and explore the pathophysiological mechanisms. There is no consensus on specific markers and physical tests that indicate cognitive decline in older. The objective of this study was to evaluate a panel of inflammatory biomarkers and physical function and investigate their association with cognitive function in community-dwelling older women. Seventy-one participants were included in this study. Cognitive function was assessed by Mini Mental State Examination, muscle strength using dynamometer, body composition using Dual X-ray absorptiometry, respiratory muscle strength using manuvacuometer, and physical function using the Short Physical Performance Battery and Time Up and Go (TUG) tests. Blood samples were collected to analyze a panel of inflammatory biomarkers. The cognitive function was associated with TUG (ß = - 0.48; 95%IC = - 0.54 to - 0.21; p < 0.001), inspiratory muscle strength (ß = 0.30; 95%IC = 0.005-0.03; p = 0.009), and leptin concentrations (ß = 0.32; 95% IC = 0.001-0.006; 0.007). Time spent on TUG test and leptin levels accounted for 27% of variability in cognitive function independent of age. Poorer physical function with leptin plasma levels is associated with decreased cognitive function in older women. These findings contribute to comprehension of pathophysiology underlying cognitive decline and informing the development of new approaches to prevent, diagnose, monitoring and treat cognitive decline in aging.

Association between sleep problems and functional disability in community-dwelling older adults.

BACKGROUND: Sleep problems are frequently observed in older adults. They can lead to changes in the individual's physical, occupational, cognitive, and social functioning, compromising the performance of activities of daily living and contributing to the occurrence of functional disability. This study evaluated the association between sleep problems and functional disability in community-dwelling older adults. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study with data from 10,507 Brazilian community-dwelling older adults participating in the 2013 National Health Survey. The exposure variable was self-reported sleep problems in the last two weeks. The outcome measure was functional disability assessed from self-reported questionnaires, categorized into basic activities of daily living (BADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), and defined as not being able to perform or having little or a lot of difficulty in at least one of the activities investigated in the domain of interest. RESULTS: Older adults who reported sleep problems had 1.53 (95%CI: 1.34; 1.75) and 1.42 (95%CI: 1.26; 1.59) greater odds of having a disability in BADL and IADL when compared to individuals who reported having no sleep problems. CONCLUSIONS: Older adults with sleep problems were more likely to have a functional disability, both in BADL and IADL. Thus, it is important to implement strategies to screen for sleep problems in older adults in primary health care as a preventive strategy for functional disability.

Association between self-perception of the neighborhood environment and sleep problems in older Brazilian adults: findings from ELSI-Brazil / Associação entre autopercepção do ambiente da vizinhança e problemas de sono em idosos brasileiros: resultados do ELSI-Brasil / Asociación entre la autopercepción del entorno del vecindario y los problemas de sueño en ancianos brasileños: resultados del ELSI-Brasil

Abstract: This study aimed to investigate associations between neighborhood perception and sleep problems in older Brazilian adults. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 5,719 community-dwelling older adults (≥ 60 years) from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil, 2019-2021). The outcomes were self-reported sleep problems: poor sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, primary insomnia complaints, difficulty staying asleep, and waking up at dawn. The exposure variables were questions about the perception of participants about the physical and social environment of the neighborhood. Logistic regression was used in data analysis. Garbage, rubbish, or tall grass on the streets and the desire to move were associated with higher odds of poor sleep quality. Concern about falling due to damaged sidewalks, concern about having difficulties taking transportation, and concern about having difficulties crossing the street were associated with higher odds of all sleep problems. Sound/noise of buses and cars was associated with higher odds of some sleep problems. Perceiving the neighborhood as a good place to live was associated with lower odds of daytime sleepiness and primary insomnia complaints. Trusting most people in the neighborhood and perceiving that kids and younger people treat adults with respect were associated with lower odds of daytime sleepiness, primary insomnia complaints, and waking up at dawn. Being a good place for kids to play and raise teenagers was associated with lower odds of daytime sleepiness. These results can assist public administrators in creating urban planning policies aimed at improving neighborhood environments as a means of health promotion.

Resumo: Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar associações entre percepções da vizinhança e problemas de sono em idosos brasileiros. Foi realizado um estudo transversal com 5.719 idosos da comunidade (≥ 60 anos) do Estudo Longitudinal da Saúde dos Idosos Brasileiros (ELSI-Brasil, 2019-2021). Os desfechos foram problemas de sono autorreferidos: má qualidade do sono, sonolência diurna, queixas de insônia primária, dificuldade em manter o sono e acordar na madrugada. As variáveis de exposição foram: questões sobre a percepção dos participantes sobre o ambiente físico e social da vizinhança. Regressão logística foi utilizada na análise dos dados. Lixo, sujeira ou grama alta nas ruas e o desejo de mudar de onde mora foram associados a maiores chances de má qualidade do sono. Preocupação em cair devido a calçadas em má condição, preocupação com dificuldades para usar os meios de transporte e preocupação com dificuldades para atravessar a rua foram associadas a maiores chances de todos os problemas de sono. O som/ruído dos ônibus e carros foi associado a maiores chances de alguns problemas de sono. A percepção da vizinhança como um bom lugar para morar foi associado a menores chances de sonolência diurna e queixas de insônia primária. A confiança na maioria das pessoas da vizinhança e a percepção de que crianças e jovens tratam os adultos com respeito foram associados a menores chances de sonolência diurna, queixas de insônia primária e acordar na madrugada. Um bom lugar para as crianças brincarem e para os adolescentes crescerem foi associado a menores chances de sonolência diurna. Esses resultados podem ajudar os gestores públicos na criação de políticas de planejamento urbano voltadas a melhorias nos ambientes da vizinhança como forma de promoção da saúde.

Resumen: Este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar las asociaciones entre las percepcion del vecindario y los problemas de sueño en ancianos brasileños. Se realizó un estudio transversal con 5.719 ancianos de la comunidad (≥ 60 años) del Estudio Longitudinal de Salud de los Ancianos Brasileños (ELSI-Brasil, 2019-2021). Los desenlaces fueron los siguientes: problemas de sueño autoinformados: mala calidad del sueño, somnolencia diurna, quejas de insomnio primario, dificultad para permanecer dormido y despertarse durante la madrugada. Las variables de exposición fueron las siguientes: preguntas sobre la percepción de los participantes sobre el entorno físico y social del vecindario. En el análisis de datos se utilizó la regresión logística. La basura, la suciedad o el césped alto en las calles y el deseo de cambiar el lugar donde viven se asociaron con mayores probabilidades de tener una mala calidad del sueño. La preocupación por las caídas debido a aceras en mal estado, la preocupación por las dificultades para utilizar los medios de transporte y la preocupación por las dificultades para cruzar la calle se asociaron con mayores probabilidades de sufrir todos los problemas de sueño. El ruido producido por los autobuses y automóviles se asoció con una mayor probabilidad de sufrir algunos problemas de sueño. La percepción del vecindario como un buen lugar para vivir se asoció con menores probabilidades de sufrir somnolencia diurna y quejas de insomnio primario. La confianza en la mayoría de la gente del vecindario y la percepción de que los niños y jóvenes tratan a los adultos con respeto se asociaron con menores probabilidades de sufrir somnolencia diurna, quejas de insomnio primario y despertarse durante la madrugada. Un buen lugar para que los niños jugaran y para que los adolescentes crecieran se asoció con menores probabilidades de sufrir somnolencia diurna. Estos resultados pueden ayudar a los gestores públicos a crear políticas de planificación urbana dirigidas a mejorar los entornos vecinales como forma de promover la salud.

Association Between Typologies of Sedentary Behavior and Muscle Strength, Gait Speed, and Balance in Community-Dwelling Older Adults.

Knowledge of how the different types of sedentary behaviors (SB) are associated with functional limitations can guide professionals who work with older adults on better recommendations about the amount of daily time that should be encouraged in each type of SB. The objective was to estimate the associations between two SB typologies (SB television [TV] and SB computer/internet) and the presence of handgrip strength, lower limb strength, gait speed, and balance limitations in Brazilian community-dwelling older adults. This is a cross-sectional study with 1,298 community-dwelling older adults (≥60 years). SB was assessed by self-reporting daily time spent watching TV or using computer/internet (categorized into <2, 3-4, and ≥5 hr/day). Outcomes were handgrip strength, lower limb strength, gait speed, and balance limitations considering referenced cutoff points. Older adults in SB TV ≥5 hr/day had 1.75 (95% confidence interval [CI] [1.07, 2.86]) and 1.88 (95% CI [1.02, 3.46]) times more chances of handgrip strength and gait speed limitations, respectively. On the other hand, those who spent 3-4 and ≥5 hr/day in SB computer/internet had 0.45 (95% CI [0.20, 0.99]) and 0.37 (95% CI [0.15, 0.93]) had less chances of lower limb strength and balance limitations, respectively. In conclusion, functional limitations would be associated differently depending on the type of SB in the older adults sampled.

Factors associated with fear of falling in older women with knee osteoarthritis: A cross-sectional study.

Knee instability in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is associated with fear of falling (FoF). This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and the factors associated with FoF in older women with KOA. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 93 older women with KOA. Sociodemographic variables, medical conditions, handgrip strength, and anthropometric and body composition measurements were assessed. The Short Physical Performance Battery was used to measure functional performance. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index was applied to assess pain, stiffness, and disability. FoF was assessed by the Falls Efficacy Scale-International. The prevalence of FoF was high (88.2 %). Disability, history of falls, handgrip strength, obesity, number of medications, and pain were independently associated with FoF. Our findings suggest that health professionals should investigate FoF when evaluating older women with KOA and address these risk factors when developing strategies to prevent or minimize FoF in this population.

[Screen time, obesity and cardiovascular disease among elderly Brazilians: 2013 and 2019 National Health Surveys]. / Tempo de televisão, obesidade e doenças cardiovasculares em idosos brasileiros: Pesquisas Nacionais de Saúde 2013 e 2019.

The scope of this paper was to analyze the association between the time spent watching television (TV) and the presence of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) obesity and obesity associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVD) among elderly Brazilians, according to gender, comparing data from the 2013 and 2019 National Health Surveys (NHS). It involved a cross-sectional study, with data from 23,815 and 43,554 elderly people, respectively, from the 2013 and 2019 NHS. Self-reported TV screen time was categorized into: <3, 3-6, and ≥6 per day. Obesity was assessed by body mass index ≥27 kg/m² and CVD by self-reported medical diagnosis. In 2013, elderly women who watched TV ≥6 hours/day were more likely to have OCD obesity (OR=1.87; 95%CI=1.32;2.64) and obesity associated with CVD (OR=6.30; 95%CI=3.38;11.74). In 2019, elderly women who watched TV between 3-6 hours/day (OR=1.44; 95%CI=1.25;1.65) and ≥6 hours/day (OR=1.55; 95%CI=1.28;1.88) were more likely to have OCD obesity, while the incidence of obesity associated with CVD was higher for ≥6 hours/day (OR=2.13; 95%CI=1.48;3.06). In 2019, men were more likely to have obesity associated with CVD watching TV between 3-6 hours/day (OR=1.76; 95%CI=1.20;2.56) and ≥6 hours/day (OR=2.13; 95%CI=1.27;3.57). The importance of reducing screen time by the elderly is clearly evident.

Objetivou-se analisar a associação entre tempo assistindo televisão (TV) e a presença de obesidade isolada e associada às doenças cardiovasculares (DCV) de idosos brasileiros, conforme o sexo, comparando-se os dados das Pesquisas Nacionais de Saúde 2013 e 2019. Estudo transversal, com dados de 23.815 e 43.554 idosos das PNS 2013 e 2019, respectivamente. O autorrelato do tempo assistindo à TV foi categorizado em: <3, 3-6 e ≥6 horas diárias. A obesidade isolada foi avaliada pelo índice de massa corporal ≥27 kg/m² e a DCV pelo autorrelato de diagnóstico médico. Em 2013, as idosas que assistiam à TV ≥6 horas/dia apresentaram maiores chances de obesidade isolada (OR=1,87; IC95%=1,32;2,64) e associada à DCV (OR=6,30; IC95%=3,38;11,74). Em 2019, as idosas que assistiam à TV entre 3-6 horas/dia (OR=1,44; IC95%=1,25;1,65) e ≥6 horas/dia (OR=1,55; IC95%=1,28;1,88) tiveram maiores chances de obesidade isolada, já as chances de obesidade associada à DCV, foram maiores para ≥6 horas/dia (OR=2,13; IC95%=1,48;3,06). Em 2019, os homens tiveram maiores chances de obesidade associada às DCV assistindo à TV entre 3-6 horas/dia (OR=1,76; IC95%=1,20;2,56) e ≥6 horas/dia (OR=2,13; IC95%=1,27;3,57). Evidencia-se a importância em diminuir o tempo assistindo à TV dos idosos.

A nationwide study on sleep complaints and associated factors in older adults: ELSI-Brazil.

Sleep problems, such as difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, early awakening with failure to continue sleep, and altered sleep-wake cycle, are common in the general population. This cross-sectional study with 6,929 older adults (≥ 60 years) aimed to estimate the prevalence of different types of sleep problems, their associated factors, and the population-attributable fraction of associated factors among older adults. The outcome variables consisted of self-reported sleep problems: insomnia (initial, intermediate, late, and any type of insomnia), poor sleep quality, and daytime sleepiness. The independent variables were sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics and health conditions. The prevalence proportions were initial insomnia (49.1%), intermediate insomnia (49.2%), late insomnia (45.9%), any type of insomnia (58.6%), poor sleep quality (15.6%), and daytime sleepiness (38.4%). Female sex, presence of two or more chronic diseases, not eating the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables, and regular and bad/very bad self-rated health were positively associated with the sleep problems investigated. Consuming alcohol once a month or more was inversely associated with initial insomnia. Population attributable fraction estimates ranged from 3% to 19% considering two or more chronic diseases, not eating the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables, and regular and bad/very bad self-rated health. High prevalence of self-reported sleep problems was evinced in older adults. These results can be useful to guide public health services in the creation of informational, evaluative, and screening strategies for sleep problems in older Brazilian adults.

Prediction of resting energy expenditure in Italian older adults with severe obesity.

Background: In the last decade a large number of studies proposed and/or validated equations to estimate the Resting Energy Expenditure (REE) in adults and/or older adults, however, no equation currently available showed good accuracy for older adults with severe obesity. Thus, this study aimed to develop and validate new predictive equations for REE, based on data from the indirect calorimetry, in Italian older adults with severe obesity. Methods: A retrospective study was as conducted with 764 Caucasian older adults with severe obesity (age range: 60-74 years and BMI ≥ 35 kg/m/²). Four models were used to test the accuracy of anthropometry and body composition variables in multivariable prediction of REE. All models were derived by stepwise multiple regression analysis using a calibration group of 382 subjects [295 females and 87 males] and the equations were cross-validated in the remaining 382 subjects [295 females and 87 males] as validation group. The new prediction equations and the other published equations were tested using the Bland-Altman method. Prediction accuracy was defined as the percentage of subjects whose REE was predicted within ± 10% of measured REE. Results: All the equations analyzed predicted higher energy requirements for males than females, and most of them underestimated the energy requirement values of our sample. The highest accuracy values were observed in the new equations, with 62% in the anthropometric model and 63% in the body composition model. Conclusion: Although the accuracy of our equations was slightly higher in comparison with the other taken into consideration, they cannot be considered completely satisfactory for predicting REE in Italians older adults with severe obesity. When predicting equations cannot guarantee precise or acceptable values of REE, the use of indirect calorimetry (if available) should be always recommended, especially in clinical practice.

Tempo de televisão, obesidade e doenças cardiovasculares em idosos brasileiros: Pesquisas Nacionais de Saúde 2013 e 2019 / Screen time, obesity and cardiovascular disease among elderly Brazilians: 2013 and 2019 National Health Surveys

Resumo Objetivou-se analisar a associação entre tempo assistindo televisão (TV) e a presença de obesidade isolada e associada às doenças cardiovasculares (DCV) de idosos brasileiros, conforme o sexo, comparando-se os dados das Pesquisas Nacionais de Saúde 2013 e 2019. Estudo transversal, com dados de 23.815 e 43.554 idosos das PNS 2013 e 2019, respectivamente. O autorrelato do tempo assistindo à TV foi categorizado em: <3, 3-6 e ≥6 horas diárias. A obesidade isolada foi avaliada pelo índice de massa corporal ≥27 kg/m² e a DCV pelo autorrelato de diagnóstico médico. Em 2013, as idosas que assistiam à TV ≥6 horas/dia apresentaram maiores chances de obesidade isolada (OR=1,87; IC95%=1,32;2,64) e associada à DCV (OR=6,30; IC95%=3,38;11,74). Em 2019, as idosas que assistiam à TV entre 3-6 horas/dia (OR=1,44; IC95%=1,25;1,65) e ≥6 horas/dia (OR=1,55; IC95%=1,28;1,88) tiveram maiores chances de obesidade isolada, já as chances de obesidade associada à DCV, foram maiores para ≥6 horas/dia (OR=2,13; IC95%=1,48;3,06). Em 2019, os homens tiveram maiores chances de obesidade associada às DCV assistindo à TV entre 3-6 horas/dia (OR=1,76; IC95%=1,20;2,56) e ≥6 horas/dia (OR=2,13; IC95%=1,27;3,57). Evidencia-se a importância em diminuir o tempo assistindo à TV dos idosos.

Abstract The scope of this paper was to analyze the association between the time spent watching television (TV) and the presence of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) obesity and obesity associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVD) among elderly Brazilians, according to gender, comparing data from the 2013 and 2019 National Health Surveys (NHS). It involved a cross-sectional study, with data from 23,815 and 43,554 elderly people, respectively, from the 2013 and 2019 NHS. Self-reported TV screen time was categorized into: <3, 3-6, and ≥6 per day. Obesity was assessed by body mass index ≥27 kg/m² and CVD by self-reported medical diagnosis. In 2013, elderly women who watched TV ≥6 hours/day were more likely to have OCD obesity (OR=1.87; 95%CI=1.32;2.64) and obesity associated with CVD (OR=6.30; 95%CI=3.38;11.74). In 2019, elderly women who watched TV between 3-6 hours/day (OR=1.44; 95%CI=1.25;1.65) and ≥6 hours/day (OR=1.55; 95%CI=1.28;1.88) were more likely to have OCD obesity, while the incidence of obesity associated with CVD was higher for ≥6 hours/day (OR=2.13; 95%CI=1.48;3.06). In 2019, men were more likely to have obesity associated with CVD watching TV between 3-6 hours/day (OR=1.76; 95%CI=1.20;2.56) and ≥6 hours/day (OR=2.13; 95%CI=1.27;3.57). The importance of reducing screen time by the elderly is clearly evident.

Self-perception of the neighborhood environment, cognitive impairment and functional limitations in community-dwelling older adults: A cross-sectional study.

AIMS: It is important to identify the association between characteristics of the neighborhood environment, cognitive impairment and functional limitations to organize early and effective intervention strategies. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey of 308 community-dwelling older adults was conducted. Logistic Regression analyses were performed to verify the associations between self-perceived characteristics of the neighborhood environment (Neighborhood Environment Walkability Scale), cognitive impairment (Mini-Mental State Examination) and functional limitations (mobility, lower limb muscle strength and balance). RESULTS: Significant negative associations were observed: (1) better infrastructure, traffic and safety and mobility limitation; (2) better infrastructure and muscle weakness; (3) better safety and balance limitation; and (4) better streets/sidewalks and cognitive impairment. On the other hand, positive associations were observed between poor safety with mobility limitation and muscle weakness. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings contribute to greater knowledge about neighborhood characteristics regarding mental and physical health in community-dwelling older adults.

Circadian rhythm alterations affecting the pathology of neurodegenerative diseases.

The circadian rhythm is a nearly 24-h oscillation found in various physiological processes in the human brain and body that is regulated by environmental and genetic factors. It is responsible for maintaining body homeostasis and it is critical for essential functions, such as metabolic regulation and memory consolidation. Dysregulation in the circadian rhythm can negatively impact human health, resulting in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, psychiatric disorders, and premature death. Emerging evidence points to a relationship between the dysregulation circadian rhythm and neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that the alterations in circadian function might play crucial roles in the pathogenesis and progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Better understanding this association is of paramount importance to expand the knowledge on the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, as well as, to provide potential targets for the development of new interventions based on the dysregulation of circadian rhythm. Here we review the latest findings on dysregulation of circadian rhythm alterations in Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, spinocerebellar ataxia and multiple-system atrophy, focusing on research published in the last 3 years.

Inflammatory biomarkers at different stages of Sarcopenia in older women.

In recent years, studies have found that Sarcopenia alters inflammatory biomarkers. However, the behavior of inflammatory biomarkers at different stages of Sarcopenia is not well understood. This study aimed to compare a broad panel of inflammatory biomarkers in older women at different stages of Sarcopenia. The study included 71 Brazilian community-dwelling older women. Muscle Strength was assessed by using handgrip strength (Jamar dynamometer). The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) was performed to assess the physical performance, and body composition was assessed by DEXA. Sarcopenia was diagnosed and classified according to the EWGSOP2 criteria. Blood was drawn, and inflammatory biomarkers associated with Sarcopenia (IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF, adiponectin, leptin, resistin, BDNF, sTNFr-1 and sTNFr-2) was analysed. After diagnosis and classification of sarcopenia, 45% of women did not present Sarcopenia (NS, N = 32), 23.9% were diagnosed with Sarcopenia Probable (SP, N = 17), 19,7% with Sarcopenia Confirmed (SC, N = 14), and 11.3% with Severe Sarcopenia (SS, N = 8). The analysis of inflammatory biomarkers revealed that the more advanced the stage of Sarcopenia, the higher the levels of BDNF, IL-8, sTNFr-1, and sTNFr-2. The assessment of BDNF, IL-8, sTNFr-1, and sTNFr-2 levels may be an adjuvant tool in diagnosis and severity classification of Sarcopenia in older Brazilian women.