Insights from Chilean NCDs Hospitalization Data during COVID-19.

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the lifestyles of people of all ages, conditions and occupations. Social distance, remote working, changes in diet and a lack of physical activity have directly and indirectly affected many aspects of mental and physical health, particularly in patients with many comorbidities and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). In our paper, we analyzed COVID-19 hospitalized and non-hospitalized cases according to comorbidities to assess the average monthly percentage change (AMPC) and monthly percentage change (MPC) using open access data from the Chilean Ministry of Science, Technology, Knowledge and Innovation. As expected, the infection mainly affected patients with comorbidities, including cardiovascular risk factors. The hospitalized cases with obesity and chronic lung disease increased throughout the period of June 2020-August 2021 (AMPC = ↑20.8 and ↑19.4%, respectively, p < 0.05), as did all the non-hospitalized cases with comorbidities throughout the period (AMPC = ↑15.6 to ↑30.3 [p < 0.05]). The increases in hospitalizations and non-hospitalizations with comorbidities may be associated with physical inactivity. A healthy lifestyle with regular physical activity may have had a protective effect on the COVID-19 severity and related events in the post-pandemic period, especially for the NCD population.

O2 Saturation Predicted the ICU Stay of COVID-19 Patients in a Hospital at Altitude: A Low-Cost Tool for Post-Pandemic.

Background and Objectives: Patients at high altitudes with COVID-19 may experience a decrease in their partial oxygen saturation (PO2S) levels. The objective was to assess the association between PO2S and intensive care unit (ICU) stay in patients at high altitudes with COVID-19. Materials and Methods: Clinical records of 69 COVID-19 patients (36% women) admitted to the ICU were analyzed. Median values were considered for intra-group categories ("≤11 days" and ">11 days" in the ICU) and for PO2S height categories ("<90%" and "≥90%"). Logistic regression and linear regression models adjusted for confounding variables were used. Results: Patients with >11 days in the ICU had 84% lower odds of having a PO2S ≥ 90% (OR: 0.16 [CI: 0.02, 0.69], p = 0.005) compared to those with ≤11 days in the ICU. An increase in PO2S by 1% reduced ICU stay by 0.22 days (ß: -0.22 [CI: -0.33, -0.11], p < 0.001), potentially leading to a reduction of up to 1.44 days. Conclusions: PO2S is a crucial factor in estimating ICU stays for COVID-19 patients at high altitudes and serves as an accessible and cost-effective measure. It should be used in infected patients to complement the prognosis of post-pandemic ICU stay.

Effects of an Educational Intervention Program on Positional Cranial Deformity in Premature Infants.

Positional cranial deformities are associated with prematurity evolving during the first 2 years of life due to the malleable characteristics of the skull, the first year being the main/primary therapeutic window for intervention. The objectives were (a) to describe health characteristics, peri- and postnatal pathologies, and positional cranial deformities in infants enrolled in an early intervention program and (b) to analyze the effects of a parent education-based intervention program on positional cranial deformity in premature infants. A quantitative, analytical, longitudinal study was conducted. It included 103 premature infants enrolled in an early intervention program (EIP) during the year 2017, all under 4 months of corrected age, to whom a parent education-based intervention program was applied. Cranial circumference, cranial width, diagonals, and anteroposterior diameter were measured, and the cranial asymmetry index (CAI) and cephalic index (CI) were calculated at baseline and during two subsequent evaluations separated by a 3-month period. The main results showed that 75.7% of the infants belonged to a very premature gestational age category, and 57.3% had an adequate weight for gestational age. The most frequent pathologies were premature jaundice, premature anemia, and hyaline membrane disease. The most frequent positional cranial deformity was plagiocephaly. The parent education-based intervention program resulted in (1) a significant decrease in the CAI and a significant increase in the IC, (2) plagiocephalies: an increase in the mild category and a decrease in the moderate + severe categories, (3) brachycephalies: a decrease in the absence category and an increase in the moderate + severe category, and (4) dolichocephalies: an increase in the absence category and a decrease in the mild category. In conclusion, the recommended first line of intervention was not enough for this population, and future studies should support the development of national clinical guidelines, where education is complemented with other therapeutic measures.

Association between a lifestyle score and all-cause mortality: a prospective analysis of the Chilean National Health Survey 2009-2010.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between a lifestyle score and all-cause mortality in the Chilean population. DESIGN: Prospective study. SETTINGS: The score was based on seven modifiable behaviours: salt intake, fruit and vegetable intake, alcohol consumption, sleep duration, smoking, physical activity and sedentary behaviours. 1-point was assigned for each healthy recommendation. Points were summed to create an unweighted score from 0 (less healthy) to 7 (healthiest). According to their score, participants were then classified into: less healthy (0-2 points), moderately healthy (3-4 points) and the healthiest (5-7 points). Associations between the categories of lifestyle score and all-cause mortality were investigated using Cox proportional hazard models adjusted for confounders. Nonlinear associations were also investigated. PARTICIPANTS: 2706 participants from the Chilean National Health Survey 2009-2010. RESULTS: After a median follow-up of 10·9 years, 286 (10·6 %) participants died. In the maximally adjusted model, and compared with the healthiest participants, those less healthy had 2·55 (95 % CI 1·75, 3·71) times higher mortality risk due to any cause. Similar trends were identified for the moderately healthy group. Moreover, there was a significant trend towards increasing the mortality risk when increasing unhealthy behaviours (hazard ratio model 3: 1·61 (95 % CI 1·34, 1·94)). There was no evidence of nonlinearity between the lifestyle score and all-cause mortality. CONCLUSION: Individuals in the less healthy lifestyle category had higher mortality risk than the healthiest group. Therefore, public health strategies should be implemented to promote adherence to a healthy lifestyle across the Chilean population.

A VO2peak prediction model in older adults' patients with Parkinson's disease.

INTRODUCTION: Cardiopulmonary function is compromised in people with Parkinson's Disease (PD) and might be related with mortality in advanced stages of the disease. Therefore, estimating the peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) to monitor its progression overtime and to prescribe exercise is important in clinical context. This study aimed at developing a VO2peak prediction model for older adults' patients with PD based on functional tests used in the physiotherapy clinical settings. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Eighteen patients with PD (63.8 ± 6.6 years old) took part in the study. All participants underwent a basic anthropometry, functional tests, fulfilled a physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ-S) and cardiopulmonary exercise testing on a cycle ergometer. Linear regression and distributional assumptions were performed to develop the prediction model. The Bland-Altman plots were applied for the agreement analysis. RESULTS: The best prediction model included gender, age, waist circumference, BMI, IPAQ-S score, and SPPB functional test score (R2 = 0.87; estimation error: 2.19 ml·kg·min-1; p < 0.001). The distribution assumptions showed validity of the model (p > 0.05), the estimation bias showed a mean of 0.0056 and no pair of data were outside the limits of agreement according to the Bland-Altman diagram. CONCLUSIONS: Accessible, simple, and low-cost variables were useful for validly predicting VO2peak in patients with PD.

Efecto del sedentarismo sobre la interacción entre el gen FTO y niveles de adiposidad en adultos chilenos - Resultados del Estudio GENADIO

Antecedentes: Tanto el gen FTO (Fat-mass and obesity-associated-gene) y el tiempo sedente se asocian a obesidad, sin embargo, se desconoce si el tiempo sedente puede modificar la predisposición genética a la obesidad. Por ende, el objetivo de este estudio fue investigar si la asociación entre el polimorfismo rs9939609 del gen FTO y marcadores de adiposidad podrían ser modificados por el tiempo sedente. Métodos: Este estudio de corte transversal incluye a 409 participantes del estudio GENADIO. Los marcadores de adiposidad estudiados fueron peso corporal, índice de masa corporal (IMC), perímetro de cintura (PC) y porcentaje masa grasa. El tiempo sedente se determinó mediante acelerometría de movimiento. La interacción entre el gen FTO (rs9939609) y el tiempo sedente sobre los marcadores de adiposidad se determinó mediante análisis de regresión múltiple. Resultados: Tanto la variante de riesgo del gen FTO como el tiempo sedente se asociaron a mayor peso corporal, IMC, PC y masa grasa. Sin embargo, la asociación entre tiempo sedente y marcadores de adiposidad fue mayor en personas portadoras del alelo de riesgo del gen FTO. Por cada 1 hora de incremento en tiempo sedente, el peso corporal incrementa en 1,36 kg ([95% IC: 0,27; 2,46], p = 0,015) y 2,95 kg ([95% IC: 1,24; 4,65], p = 0,001) en personas con la variante protectora (TT) versus aquellos con la variante de riesgo (AA), respectivamente. Resultados similares se encontraron para (PC). Conclusión: La asociación entre la variante de riesgo de FTO y mayor nivel de adiposidad es más acentuada en individuos que presentan mayores niveles de sedentarismo.

Background: The Fat-mass and obesity-associated-gene (FTO gene) and sedentary behavior time are associated with obesity. However, whether sedentary behavior time can modify the genetic predisposition to obesity in the Chilean population is unknown. Therefore, this study investigated the association between sedentary behavior, adiposity markers, and the FTO gene. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 409 participants from the Genes, Environment, Diabetes, and Obesity (GENADIO) study. Adiposity markers studied included body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and fat mass. Sedentary behaviors were measured using accelerometers. Using multiple regression, we evaluated the interaction between sedentary behaviors and the FTO gene (rs9939609) on adiposity markers. Results: Sedentary behaviors and the FTO genotype were positively associated with higher body weight, BMI, WC, and fat mass. However, the association between time of sedentary behavior and adiposity markers was higher in carriers of the risk variant for the FTO gene. For each hour of increment in sedentary behaviors, body weight increases by 1.36 kg ([95% CI: 0.27; 2.46], p = 0.015) and 2.95 kg ([95%CI: 1.24; 4.65], p = 0.001) in non-risk carriers (TT) versus risk carriers (AA), respectively. We observed similar results for WC, BMI, and body fat, but the interaction was significant only for WC. Conclusion: The association between sedentary behaviors and adiposity markers, especially body weight and WC, is higher in individuals who carry the risk variant of the FTO gene.

Asociación entre la velocidad de marcha y obesidad en población chilena: Resultados de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud 2016-2017

Antecedentes: La velocidad de marcha es un marcador funcional, utilizado como predictor de enfermedades crónicas. Sin embargo, existe escasa evidencia de la asociación entre la velocidad de marcha y obesidad. Objetivo: Investigar la asociación entre la velocidad de marcha auto-reportada y obesidad en población chilena. Métodos: 6.183 participantes entre 15 a 98 años de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud 2016-2017 de Chile fueron incluidos en este estudio transversal. Peso corporal, talla, perímetro de cintura (PC), índice de masa corporal (IMC) e índice cintura/altura (ICA) fueron determinados. Auto-reporte de velocidad de la marcha (normal, lenta, rápida) fue la variable de exposición. La relación entre velocidad de marcha y marcadores de obesidad fue determinada mediante regresión lineal y regresión de Poisson y todos los análisis fueron ajustados en Modelos según factores sociodemográficos y estilos de vida. Resultados: En el modelo más ajustado, quienes reportaron una velocidad de marcha normal y rápida presentaron un menor IMC (p: -1,03, p = 0,017y -1,56p = 0,001, respectivamente), menor PC (p: -2,98, p = 0,004 y -3,64, p = 0,001) e ICA (3: -0,19, p = 0,004 y -0,26 p < 0,0001) respecto a quienes reportaron una marcha lenta. La velocidad de marcha rápida se asoció a una menor probabilidad de tener obesidad y obesidad central. Conclusión: La velocidad de marcha normal y rápida fueron asociadas con menor peso corporal, IMC, PC e ICA. La velocidad de marcha rápida se asoció a una menor probabilidad de obesidad y obesidad central, independiente de factores sociodemográficos y estilos de vida.

Background: Walking Pace is a functional marker, used as a predictor of chronic diseases. However, there is a lack of evidence on the association between walking pace and obesity. Aim: To investigate the association between-self-reported walking pace with obesity in the Chilean adult population. Methods: 6,183 Chilean participants (aged 15 to 98 years) from the Chilean National Health Survey 2016-2017 were included in this cross-sectional study. Weight, height, waist circumference (WC), body mass index (BMI) and waist to height ratio (WHtR) were the outcomes of interest. Self-reported walking pace (slow, average and brisk) was the exposure. The association between walking pace and obesity was determined by linear regression and Poisson regression and all analyses were adjusted in models according to sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. Results: In the most adjusted model, those who reported an average and brisk walking pace had a lower BMI (¡3: -1.03, p = 0.017 and-1.56 p = 0.001), lower WC (3: -2.98, p = 0.004 and -3.64, p = 0.001) and waist to height ratio (3: -0.19, p = 0.004 and -0.26 p < 0.0001) compared to people who reported a slow walking pace. A brisk walkingpace was associated with a lower probability of obesity and central obesity. Conclusion: the average and brisk walkingpace was associated with lower body weight, BMI, waist circumference and waist to height ratio and a brisk walking pace was associated with a lower probability of obesity and central obesity, independently of sociodemographic and lifestyle factors.

Effects of physical activity interventions on anthropometric indicators and health indices in Chilean children and adolescents: A protocol for systematic review and/or meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Physical activity interventions have been a proven effective means of preventing or treating overweight and obesity in children and adolescents. The results of these interventions in many cases are based on the determination of the effect they produce on anthropometric evaluations, which allow the calculation of health indices. However, the effects of physical activity interventions on anthropometric assessments in Chilean children and adolescents have not been systematized. The objective of this study is to provide a detailed protocol for a systematic review with meta-analysis that synthesizes the available evidence on the effect of physical activity interventions on anthropometric indicators and health indices in Chilean children and adolescents and identifies the field-based methods and health indices most used for body composition estimation. METHODS: This protocol was performed according to the PRISMA declaration. MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Science, Scopus, and Scielo databases will be systematically searched. Eligible studies will include randomized controlled trials (RCTs), non-RCTs and pre-post studies. CONCLUSION: This systematic review and meta-analysis protocol is designed to provide up-to-date evidence that could significantly assist public health policy makers and implementers of physical activity interventions through evidence-based guidance and recommendations.

Brisk Walking Pace Is Associated with Better Cardiometabolic Health in Adults: Findings from the Chilean National Health Survey 2016-2017.

BACKGROUND: Although the importance of walking for promoting a better cardiometabolic health is widely known (this includes both cardiovascular and metabolic/endocrine systems), there is little knowledge regarding its appropriate pace to provide adults with more cardiometabolic benefits. AIM: To analyze the associations between different walking pace categories and cardiometabolic health markers in the adult Chilean population. METHODS: Cross-sectional study. A total of 5520 participants aged 15 to 90 years old from the Chilean National Health Survey (CNHS) 2016-2017 were included. Walking pace categories (slow, average, and brisk) were collected through self-reported methods. Glycaemia, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT), vitamin D2, vitamin D3, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and lipid profile (Total, HDL, LDL, VLDL, No HDL cholesterol and triglycerides) were determined using blood sample tests and measured with the standardized methods described in the CNHS 2016-2017. RESULTS: People who had a brisk walking pace were associated with lower levels of glycaemia, HbA1c, GGT, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and higher vitamin D3 levels compared with those with a slow walking pace. Moreover, people with a brisk walking pace had lower levels of VLDL cholesterol compared with those with a slow walking pace. However, after adjusting the model to include sociodemographic background, nutritional status, and lifestyle variables, the differences remained only for glycaemia, HbA1c and systolic blood pressure levels. CONCLUSIONS: A brisk walking pace was associated with better cardiometabolic health markers and lipid profile compared with a slow walking pace.

Heart Rate from Progressive Volitional Cycling Test Is Associated with Endothelial Dysfunction Outcomes in Hypertensive Chilean Adults.

BACKGROUND: A progressive volitional cycling test is useful in determining exercise prescription in populations with cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. However, little is known about the association between heart rate during this test and endothelial dysfunction (EDys) parameters in hypertensive (HTN) patients. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between EDys markers (flow-mediated dilation [FMD], pulse wave velocity of the brachial artery [PWVba], and carotid-intima media thickness [cIMT]) and heart rate during a cycling test in HTN adults. A secondary aim was to characterize cardiovascular, anthropometric, and body composition outcomes in this population. METHODS: This was a descriptive clinical study in which adults (men and women) were assigned to one of three groups: HTN, elevated blood pressure (Ele), or a normotensive control group (CG), and completed a progressive cycling test. The primary outcomes were FMD, PWVba, cIMT, and heart rate (HR) at 25-50 watts (HR25-50), 50-100 watts (HR50-100), and 75-150 watts (HR75-150) of the Astrand test. Secondary outcomes included body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, body fat percentage (BF%), skeletal muscle mass (SMM), resting metabolic rate (RMR), and estimated body age, as measured by a bio-impedance digital scale. RESULTS: Analyses of the associations between FMD, PWV, and HR25-50, HR50-100, and HR75-150 watts revealed no significant association in the HTN, Ele, and CG groups. However, a significant association was found between cIMT and HR75-150 watts in the HTN group (R2 47.1, ß -0.650, p = 0.038). There was also a significant trend (p = 0.047) towards increasing PWVba in the CG, Ele, and HTN groups. CONCLUSION: Heart rate during a progressive cycling test is associated with the EDys parameters cIMT in HTN patients, with particularly strong predictive capacity for vascular parameters in the second and third stages of the Astrand exercise test compared to normotensive control.

Students from a Public School in the South of Chile with Better Physical Fitness Markers Have Higher Performance in Executive Functions Tests-Cross-Sectional Study.

In the past few years, the level of physical fitness in children has decreased globally. According to the SIMCE test carried out in 2015, 45% of 8th year students in Chile were overweight. Moreover, international studies have shown that being overweight is associated with the development of chronic illnesses, negatively affecting cognitive mechanisms and processes. Nevertheless, there is little to no evidence that analyzes the relationship between physical fitness and executive functions in students, at a national level. The aim was to analyze the relationship between cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, and motor fitness, and performance in an executive functions test, in students from a public school in the south of Chile. A qualitative, descriptive -correlational, non-experimental, and cross-sectional approach was used. In total, 100 students between 9 and 12 and 11 months of age from a public school in the south of Chile completed the physical fitness assessments through the ALPHA fitness test, and 81 students completed the executive function assessments through the ENFEN test. It was evidenced that students who achieved a longer duration of time and a later stage in the Course Navette test, more centimeters in the standing broad jump (SBJ) test, and a shorter duration in the 4 × 10 shuttle run obtained a better score in the gray trail test. Additionally, students who presented a stronger dominant handgrip scored higher in the colored trail tests. We conclude that students who show a higher level of physical fitness also present a better development of executive functions such as working memory and inhibitory control. In addition, these results suggest physical condition is a factor to consider for better cognitive and school performance.

Niveles de actividad física y tiempo sedente en personas mayores con fragilidad: resultados de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud 2016-2017 / Levels of physical activity and sitting time in elderly people with fragility: results of the 2016-2017 National Health Survey

Antecedentes: la fragilidad se caracteriza por la pérdida de reservas biológicas y la vulnerabilidad a resultados adversos. Una intervención con efectos beneficiosos sobre la prevención y el manejo de la fragilidad es la práctica regular de actividad física (AF). Objetivo: caracterizar los niveles de AF y tiempo sedente en personas mayores con fragilidad. Metodología: se incluyó a 232 personas mayores de 60 años de la región metropolitana, participantes en la Encuesta Nacional de Salud 2016-2017. La fragilidad se evaluó en base a los criterios de la escala de fenotipos de Fried y el nivel de AF y tiempo sedentario con el cuestionario Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ v2). Los niveles de AF según el fenotipo de fragilidad se determinaron con análisis de regresión lineal. Resultados y conclusiones: las personas mayores con fragilidad realizan menos AF total (β = -292,6 min/día [IC 95 %: 399,5; -185,7], p = 0,001), laboral (β = -5821,8 min/día [IC 95 %: 8680,8; -2962,8], p = 0,001), de transporte (β = -68,0 min/día [IC 95 %: -105,4; -30,62], p = 0,001). También se observó menor cantidad de AF moderada (β = -137,7 min/día [IC 95 %: -202,0; -73,5], p = 0,001); vigorosa (β = -43,4 min/día [IC 95 %: -81,6; -5,20], p = 0,026) y mayor tiempo sedente (β = 3,55 hora/día [IC 95 %: -1,97; 5,14 ], p = 0,001). Las personas mayores frágiles presentan niveles más bajos de AF en comparación con sus pares sin fragilidad. Considerando que la población chilena experimentará un aumento en el número de personas mayores, es imprescindible implementar medidas preventivas que permitan retrasar la aparición de la fragilidad, como fomentar la práctica de AF en todos sus niveles. (AU)

Background: fragility is characterized by loss of biological reserves and vulnerability to adverse outcomes. An intervention with beneficial effects on the prevention and management of frailty is the regular practice of physical activity (PA). Objective: to determine the association between levels of PA, sedentary time and frailty in older Chileans by sex. Methodology: 232 people over 60 years of age from the metropolitan region participating in the National Health Survey 2016-2017 were included. Frailty was assessed based on the Fried Phenotype Scale criteria and PA level and sedentary time with the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ v2). The association between levels of PA with the different states of frailty was investigated with linear regression analysis. Results and conclusion: elderly people with frailty have less total PA (β = -292.6 min/day [95 % CI: 399.5; -185.7], p = 0.001), occupational PA (β = -5821.8 min/day [95 % CI: 8680.8, -2962.8], p = 0.001), transportation (β = -68.0 min/day [95 % CI: -105.4, -30.62], p = 0.001). A lower amount of moderate AF was also found (β = -137.7 min/day [95 % CI: -202.0, -73.5], p = 0.001); vigorous (β = -43.4 min/day [95 % CI: -81.6; -5.20], p = 0.026) and longer time seated (β = 3.55 hours/day [95 % CI: - 1.97, 5.14], p = 0.001). Frail older people have lower PA levels compared to their peers without frailty. Considering that the Chilean population will experience an increase in the number of older people, it is essential to implement preventive measures to delay the onset of frailty, such as promoting the practice of PA at all levels. (AU)

Valores de referencia y factores de riesgo de la condición física en personas mayores chilenas físicamente activas / Reference values and risk factors in the deterioration of the physical fitness of physically active older chilean adults

BACKGROUND: Physical fitness assessment of older adults is essential because it is a key component of functional independence and healthy aging. AIM: To establish physical fitness reference values for physically active older Chilean adults of both sexes and identify the variables associated with the deterioration of their physical condition. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study that included 342 older adults aged 60 and over. Their physical fitness was assessed with the Senior Fitness Test (SFT). The timed up and go (TUG), chair stand (CS), arm curl (AC), and aerobic resistance (2 min) tests were evaluated. RESULTS: Performance in the physical fitness tests by age group decreased in all tests as older adults advanced in age. Scores for men were more evenly distributed across the different age groups. The main risk factors for the deterioration of physical fitness were age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) (p-value < 0.05). The primary risk factor for men was age and for women age and BMI. CONCLUSIONS: Performance of both men and women in the different SFT tests decreased as older adults aged. Age, sex, and BMI were the main risk factors for the deterioration of the physical fitness of physically active older adults.

Frailty Index as a Predictor of Mortality in Middle-Aged and Older People: A Prospective Analysis of Chilean Adults.

We aimed to investigate the association between frailty status and all-cause mortality in middle-aged and older people. We included 2661 individuals aged ≥ 35 from the Chilean National Health Survey 2009−2010. Mortality was determined through linkage with the Chilean Civil Registry and Identification. A 36-item frailty index (FI) was used to assess the frailty status. Associations between frailty status and all-cause mortality were assessed using Kaplan−Meier and Cox proportional hazard models adjusted for sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. A non-linear association was investigated using penalized cubic splines fitted in the Cox models. During an 8.9 median follow-up (interquartile range of 8.6−9.0), 308 individuals died (11.5%). Lower survival rates were observed in frail individuals compared to pre-frail and robust people (log-rank < 0.001). Compared with robust individuals, frail people had a higher mortality risk (HR: 2.35 [95% CI: 1.57 to 3.51]). Frail middle-aged individuals had a higher risk of dying independently of major risk factors.

Effects of a Six-Week International Tour on the Physical Performance and Body Composition of Young Chilean Tennis Players.

In tennis, it is common for young male tennis players to spend several weeks away from their local training camps during the competition season, which could affect their performance. The purpose of the study was to analyze the effects of a six-week international tour on physical performance and body composition in young Chilean tennis players. Twenty-four men between the ages of 14 and 16 participated in this research. In body composition and anthropometric measurement, body weight, height, skinfolds, and perimeters were measured. Body fat percentage (BFP) and skeletal muscle mass (SMM) were calculated. For physical performance, 5-m and 10-m sprints, modified agility test (MAT test), countermovement jump (CMJ), and medicine ball throw (MBT) were evaluated. Results show that, in body composition, BFP and SMM significantly decreased post-tour (p < 0.05; effect sizes ranging from 0.23 to 0.33, respectively). In physical performance, agility and 5-m and 10-m sprints significantly decreased (p < 0.05, effect sizes ranging from −0.63 to 1.10). We conclude that after a six-week international tour, BFP, SMM, agility, and speed (linear sprint) tend to decrease significantly, with a greater effect in the sprint tests.

A descriptive ranking of blood pressure and physical fitness of Latin-American ethnic schoolchildren.

BACKGROUND: There is a general lack of information about how insufficient physical activity impacts blood pressure and physical fitness in Latin-American ethnic minorities. AIMS: To describe the interactions between insufficient physical activity, blood pressure, and physical fitness outcomes in Latin-American schoolchildren of different ethnicity. METHODS: This was a prospective, international, multi-center, and cross-sectional study of three Latin-American countries involving schoolchildren from seven ethnic groups of Colombia (Tikuna, Nasa, Embera), Brazil (African, Mulato), and Chile (Mapuche), and also European schoolchildren from Brazil and Chile. Data were categorized based on whether participants were physically active (PA) or insufficient physical activity (iPA) using the WHO physical activity recommendations. The main outcomes were systolic (SBP), diastolic (DBP), and mean arterial (MAP) blood pressure, and scores for physical and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF, by estimated V˙O2max), handgrip muscle strength (HGS), and standing long jump (SLJ). Secondary outcomes were anthropometric measures (weight, height, body mass index [BMI], waist circumference [WC], waist-to-height ratio), and body fat percentage (BF%, limited data by country). Primary and secondary outcomes were ranked. RESULTS: For both PA and iPA categories, significant interactions between ethnic groups were found concerning SBP/DBP (F(37.7), ES 0.08; F(51.5), ES 0.08), V˙O2max (F(37.7), ES 0.08; F(51.5), ES 0.08), HGS (F(33.8), ES 0.07; F(5.03), ES 0.04), and SLJ (F(64.3), ES 0.14; F(64.3), 0.14). In the iPA category, Mapuche schoolchildren were classified 1st (119.5; 81.5) with highest SBP/DBP and highest MAP (94.6 mmHg); Embera schoolchildren were classified 1st with lowest V˙O2max (33.7 mL/kg/min); and European schoolchildren were classified 1st (19.9 kg) with lowest HGS and SLJ (121.4 m) physical fitness. CONCLUSIONS: Under conditions of insufficient physical activity conditions, Mapuche schoolchildren had the most detrimental blood pressure, whereas Embera, Tikuna, and European schoolchildren had the lowest levels of physical fitness. These results serve to highlight the need for the early and appropriate promotion of physical activity based on ethnic differences in Latin-American schools.

[Levels of physical activity and sitting time in elderly people with fragility: results of the 2016-2017 National Health Survey]. / Niveles de actividad física y tiempo sedente en personas mayores con fragilidad: resultados de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud 2016-2017.

Introduction: Background: fragility is characterized by loss of biological reserves and vulnerability to adverse outcomes. An intervention with beneficial effects on the prevention and management of frailty is the regular practice of physical activity (PA). Objective: to determine the association between levels of PA, sedentary time and frailty in older Chileans by sex. Methodology: 232 people over 60 years of age from the metropolitan region participating in the National Health Survey 2016-2017 were included. Frailty was assessed based on the Fried Phenotype Scale criteria and PA level and sedentary time with the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ v2). The association between levels of PA with the different states of frailty was investigated with linear regression analysis. Results and conclusion: elderly people with frailty have less total PA (ß = -292.6 min/day [95 % CI: 399.5; -185.7], p = 0.001), occupational PA (ß = -5821.8 min/day [95 % CI: 8680.8, -2962.8], p = 0.001), transportation (ß = -68.0 min/day [95 % CI: -105.4, -30.62], p = 0.001). A lower amount of moderate AF was also found (ß = -137.7 min/day [95 % CI: -202.0, -73.5], p = 0.001); vigorous (ß = -43.4 min/day [95 % CI: -81.6; -5.20], p = 0.026) and longer time seated (ß = 3.55 hours/day [95 % CI: - 1.97, 5.14], p = 0.001). Frail older people have lower PA levels compared to their peers without frailty. Considering that the Chilean population will experience an increase in the number of older people, it is essential to implement preventive measures to delay the onset of frailty, such as promoting the practice of PA at all levels.

Introducción: Antecedentes: la fragilidad se caracteriza por la pérdida de reservas biológicas y la vulnerabilidad a resultados adversos. Una intervención con efectos beneficiosos sobre la prevención y el manejo de la fragilidad es la práctica regular de actividad física (AF). Objetivo: caracterizar los niveles de AF y tiempo sedente en personas mayores con fragilidad. Metodología: se incluyó a 232 personas mayores de 60 años de la región metropolitana, participantes en la Encuesta Nacional de Salud 2016-2017. La fragilidad se evaluó en base a los criterios de la escala de fenotipos de Fried y el nivel de AF y tiempo sedentario con el cuestionario Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ v2). Los niveles de AF según el fenotipo de fragilidad se determinaron con análisis de regresión lineal. Resultados y conclusiones: las personas mayores con fragilidad realizan menos AF total (ß = -292,6 min/día [IC 95 %: 399,5; -185,7], p = 0,001), laboral (ß = -5821,8 min/día [IC 95 %: 8680,8; -2962,8], p = 0,001), de transporte (ß = -68,0 min/día [IC 95 %: -105,4; -30,62], p = 0,001). También se observó menor cantidad de AF moderada (ß = -137,7 min/día [IC 95 %: -202,0; -73,5], p = 0,001); vigorosa (ß = -43,4 min/día [IC 95 %: -81,6; -5,20], p = 0,026) y mayor tiempo sedente (ß = 3,55 hora/día [IC 95 %: -1,97; 5,14 ], p = 0,001). Las personas mayores frágiles presentan niveles más bajos de AF en comparación con sus pares sin fragilidad. Considerando que la población chilena experimentará un aumento en el número de personas mayores, es imprescindible implementar medidas preventivas que permitan retrasar la aparición de la fragilidad, como fomentar la práctica de AF en todos sus niveles.

[Cardiorespiratory fitness in Chilean cancer patients: A comparative Analysis]. / Asociación entre cáncer y fitness cardiorrespiratorio en población chilena: Resultados de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud 2016-2017.

INTRODUCTION: Physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) are protective factors in cancer development. However, the CRF in the Chilean population diagnosed with cancer is unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the association that the CRF had between people with and without a cancer diagnosis and, secondarily, to compare the trend of the CRF according to years of cancer diagnosis in the Chilean population. METHODS: Data from 5,483 people from the 2016-2017 National Health Survey between 15 and 98 years old were analyzed. Cancer diagnosis (all available) was determined with standardized questions, and CRF was calculated with an abbreviated method (demographics, anthropometry, lifestyles). Linear regression analysis adjusted for confounding variables was performed with the complex sample analysis module of the STATA v.16 program (95% CI, p < 0.05). RESULTS: People with some cancer diagnosis versus those without cancer had a lower FCR level (ft: -1.23 [95% CI: -1.52; -0.94]). When comparing CRF levels according to cancer type, similar results were observed for colorectal, breast, and uterine cancer (p < 0.001) but not for thyroid cancer (p = 0.253). There was lower CRF from the first year of diagnosis of all types of cancer to over ten years, although not significant (p = 0.109). CONCLUSIONS: Those diagnosed with cancer presented lower CRF compared to those not diagnosed. In addition, in people with cancer, the CRF decreased with increasing years since the first diagnosis. It would be essential to evaluate and increase CRF in cancer patients.

[Association between Walking Pace and obesity in Chilean Population: Findings from the Chilean National Health Survey 2016-2017]. / Asociación entre la velocidad de marcha y obesidad en población chilena: Resultados de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud 2016-2017.

BACKGROUND: Walking Pace is a functional marker, used as a predictor of chronic diseases. However, there is a lack of evidence on the association between walking pace and obesity. AIM: To investigate the association between-self-reported walking pace with obesity in the Chilean adult population. METHODS: 6,183 Chilean participants (aged 15 to 98 years) from the Chilean National Health Survey 2016-2017 were included in this cross-sectional study. Weight, height, waist circumference (WC), body mass index (BMI) and waist to height ratio (WHtR) were the outcomes of interest. Self-reported walking pace (slow, average and brisk) was the exposure. The association between walking pace and obesity was determined by linear regression and Poisson regression and all analyses were adjusted in models according to sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. RESULTS: In the most adjusted model, those who reported an average and brisk walking pace had a lower BMI (¡3: -1.03, p = 0.017 and-1.56 p = 0.001), lower WC (3: -2.98, p = 0.004 and -3.64, p = 0.001) and waist to height ratio (3: -0.19, p = 0.004 and -0.26 p < 0.0001) compared to people who reported a slow walking pace. A brisk walkingpace was associated with a lower probability of obesity and central obesity. CONCLUSION: the average and brisk walkingpace was associated with lower body weight, BMI, waist circumference and waist to height ratio and a brisk walking pace was associated with a lower probability of obesity and central obesity, independently of sociodemographic and lifestyle factors.

[Effect of Sedentary behaviors on the Interaction Between the FTO Gene and Adiposity Levels in Chilean Adults - Results from the GENADIO Study]. / Efecto del sedentarismo sobre la interacción entre el gen FTO y niveles de adiposidad en adultos chilenos - Resultados del Estudio GENADIO.

BACKGROUND: The Fat-mass and obesity-associated-gene (FTO gene) and sedentary behavior time are associated with obesity. However, whether sedentary behavior time can modify the genetic predisposition to obesity in the Chilean population is unknown. Therefore, this study investigated the association between sedentary behavior, adiposity markers, and the FTO gene. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 409 participants from the Genes, Environment, Diabetes, and Obesity (GENADIO) study. Adiposity markers studied included body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and fat mass. Sedentary behaviors were measured using accelerometers. Using multiple regression, we evaluated the interaction between sedentary behaviors and the FTO gene (rs9939609) on adiposity markers. RESULTS: Sedentary behaviors and the FTO genotype were positively associated with higher body weight, BMI, WC, and fat mass. However, the association between time of sedentary behavior and adiposity markers was higher in carriers of the risk variant for the FTO gene. For each hour of increment in sedentary behaviors, body weight increases by 1.36 kg ([95% CI: 0.27; 2.46], p = 0.015) and 2.95 kg ([95%CI: 1.24; 4.65], p = 0.001) in non-risk carriers (TT) versus risk carriers (AA), respectively. We observed similar results for WC, BMI, and body fat, but the interaction was significant only for WC. CONCLUSION: The association between sedentary behaviors and adiposity markers, especially body weight and WC, is higher in individuals who carry the risk variant of the FTO gene.