Factors associated with mental health and quality of life among Brazilian medical students: a three-year longitudinal study.

BACKGROUND: Despite several studies on the mental health of medical students, there is insufficient research on long-term follow-ups. AIMS: To investigate the associated factors and changes in the quality of life and mental health of a group of medical students followed-up for three years. METHODS: An observational, prospective cohort study was conducted. Four classes were followed during the first three years of the medical course. The study included sociodemographic data, mental health data using the DASS-21 scale, and quality-of-life data using the WHOQOL-BREF scale. Linear regression models were used for analysis. RESULTS: A total of 201 (66.1%) medical students responded to both data collection waves after a three-year follow-up. Depressive symptoms(p < 0.001), anxiety(p = 0.037), and stress(p < 0.001) increased. Additionally, physical(p < 0.001), psychological(p < 0.001), and social(p = 0.003) quality of life decreased. Worse mental health at baseline and being a woman were associated with worse mental health after three years, while higher income at baseline was associated with better quality of life after three years. CONCLUSIONS: The mental health and quality of life of the medical students worsened after three years, being influenced by gender, income, and mental health at baseline. Educators and managers must be aware of these factors to minimize suffering in medical schools.

Potential Impact of COVID-19 on Medical Career Aspirations of Prospective Students.

This article describes the evolving landscape of medical education in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the renewed importance of public health, mental well-being, and career choices among medical students. The pandemic has prompted a significant shift in medical student's career aspirations, highlighting the need for mental health support mechanisms within the medical education framework. Medical students' career choices are influenced directly and indirectly by the challenges and experiences of the pandemic era, which are discussed in this article under four key themes: traditional values, global health interests and disparities, developing trends, and digital healthcare. There is an urgent need to adjust medical training to the new reality and share the future directions of the medical education landscape by embracing diverse career paths in medicine, integrating technology into medical training, adapting to the changing context of medicine, and strengthening collaboration and communication. The pandemic underscores the importance of evidence-based patient care, necessitating the preparation of tomorrow's doctors to address the emerging healthcare challenges with resilience, adaptability, and a comprehensive understanding of both local and global health challenges.

Genetic knowledge and attitudes towards genetic testing among final-year medical students at a public university in Ecuador.

Background: Genetics plays a crucial role in the field of medicine, offering numerous applications. However, health professionals often have insufficient knowledge in this area. Therefore, it is essential to provide appropriate genetics education during university studies. Aim: This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitudes towards genetic testing among final-year medical students at a public university in Ecuador. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving final-year medical students from a public university in Ecuador. The third version of the Genetic Literacy and Attitudes Survey was administered between April and May 2022. The study examined sociodemographic characteristics, genetic knowledge, and attitudes towards genetic testing. Results: The study included 153 medical students, of which 58.2% identified as female. Most participants fell within the age range of 22 to 25 years old (85.0%). Regarding genetic knowledge, three-quarters of the participants (75.2%) demonstrated intermediate proficiency, while only 9.80% possessed a high level of knowledge. Attitudes towards the clinical and therapeutic applications of genetics, scientific advancements, access to conventional medicine, and other related topics were found to be appropriate. Conclusion: The findings suggest that most final-year medical students at a public university in Ecuador have intermediate genetic knowledge and hold appropriate attitudes towards genetic testing. However, higher education institutions should conduct a comprehensive analysis and restructure their curricula to better prepare students for the medical and technological challenges of the 21st century.

I can't get no satisfaction: Burnout, stress, and depression in Latin medical students.

The state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress, known as Burnout Syndrome (BS), is not only affecting the medical workforce but medical students in training. Gender, race, ethnicity, and potentially other variables can serve as significant risk factors contributing to BS among medical students. Despite the importance of understanding these disparities, very few studies in the U.S. have analyzed race or ethnicity amongst their cohorts. However, there exists extensive information on burnout in students from Latin America, which serves as the primary focus of this review. A systematic literature search was conducted using pertinent terms in English and Spanish. Our review found that the prevalence of BS in Latin American countries varies widely, ranging from 4.3 to 43.90% pre-COVID-19 pandemic. Variability in the educational environment and the complex interplay of cultural, academic, and systemic factors appear to contributing to burnout among students. Post-pandemic investigations reveal even higher prevalences, particularly among women. High rates of depression and anxiety are also reported during the COVID-19 pandemic. The reviewed data showed that BS can become further exacerbated and complicated by existing psychiatric comorbidities amongst Latin American medical students. It is possible that we may observe continued upward trajectories in burnout trends among both healthcare workers and medical students in this post-COVID-19 pandemic era. These insights call for tailored interventions addressing not only burnout but also the interconnected mental health challenges faced by medical students in Latin America.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Air Pollution among Medical Students.

Background: Air pollution has emerged as a global public health concern. Specifically, in Medellín, Colombia, episodes of elevated air pollution have been documented. Medical students' knowledge of air pollution is paramount for implementing future interventions directed toward patients. The aim of this research was to delineate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding air pollution among medical students at a private university in Medellín. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 352 medical students was conducted. A questionnaire was administered, generating scores ranging from 0 to 100, where a higher score signified better knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Data were analyzed using frequencies, summary measures, non-parametric tests, and linear regression. Results: In total, 31% rated the education received at the university on the relationship between health and air quality as fair to poor, and 81% perceived the air quality in the city as poor. The knowledge score was 77.8 (IQR 71.1-85.6), with 90% acknowledging that exposure to air pollution increases the risk of various diseases. The attitudes score was 82.1 (IQR 71.8-87.2), and 25.9% believed that air pollution is a multifactorial problem, rendering their actions ineffective. In terms of practices, the score was 50 (IQR 42.9-57.1), indicating that students either did not employ protective measures against pollution or used inappropriate practices such as masks or air purifiers. Regression analysis revealed no association between knowledge and practices. Conclusion: The findings of this study underscore that medical students possess commendable knowledge regarding the health effects of air pollution. However, their adoption of inappropriate practices for self-protection is evident. The lack of correlation between knowledge and practices highlights the necessity of educational initiatives to be complemented by regulatory and cultural interventions.

Breakfast consumption, saturated fat intake, and body mass index among medical and non-medical students: a cross-sectional analysis.

Changes in dietary patterns and body weight have become a focus of research in undergraduate students. This study compared breakfast consumption, intake of foods high in saturated fat, and BMI between medical and non-medical students. A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted in 4,561 Peruvian university students, of whom 1,464 (32.1%) were from the medical field and 3,097 (67.9%) from the non-medical field. We compared the frequency of breakfast consumption (categorized as regular: 6 to 7 days/week; occasional: 3 to 5 days/week; and rarely or never: 0 to 2 days/week) and the frequency of consumption of foods high in saturated fat. We created simple and multiple linear and Poisson regression models with robust variance to evaluate the association of the mentioned variables with academic fields. Non-medical students (Adjusted Prevalence Ratio [PR] = 0.92, 95% CI 0.86-0.99; p = 0.008) were less likely to eat breakfast regularly compared to medical students. Likewise, consumption of foods high in saturated fats was higher in non-medical students (B = 1.47, 95% CI 0.91-2.04; p < 0.001) compared to medical students. Similarly, the mean BMI of these students was significantly higher than that of medical students (B = 0.33, 95% CI 0.12-0.53; p = 0.002). Although medical students reported relatively healthy eating habits and a lower BMI, there is a widespread need to promote improved diet and lifestyle among the entire university population to reduce the risks of communicable diseases and improve quality of life.

Stress and exhaustion among medical students: a prospective longitudinal study on the impact of the assessment period on medical education.

BACKGROUND: Stress significantly affects both the physical and emotional health of individuals, particularly students in health-related fields. Medical students in Brazil face unique challenges due to the demanding nature of their studies, especially during assessment periods, which heighten academic pressure. These pressures often lead to poor coping strategies and mental health concerns. It is crucial to understand the complex dynamics of stress within medical education to develop strategies that improve student well-being and promote a healthier academic environment. This study aims to investigate the intricate relationship between assessment periods and stress levels among medical students. It seeks to understand how academic demands and sociodemographic factors contribute to stress dynamics during these periods. METHODS: An online observational, longitudinal, and prospective study was conducted from February to October 2022. Medical students were recruited through snowball sampling and participated in surveys administered via Google Forms at two timepoints: before (T1) and during (T2) assessment periods. The surveys collected sociodemographic data and stress symptoms using Lipp's Inventory of Stress Symptoms for Adults (LSSI). RESULTS: The transition from T1 to T2 was defined by a rise in the prevalence of stress from 59.6 to 84.2% (p = 0.001) and a decline in symptom-free students from 40.4 to 15.8% (p = 0.001). There was a significant increase in exhaustion, from 12.3 to 31.6% (p = 0.0001). Higher stress levels were notably more prevalent among younger students (≤ 24 years), females, those from wealthier families, students without scholarships, those without prior degrees, and those in the clinical phase of their studies. However, non significant correlations were found between these sociodemographic and academic factors and the increase in stress. CONCLUSION: The findings highlight significant concerns regarding the mental health of medical students during assessment periods, marked by increased stress and exhaustion levels. These results emphasize the need for proactive interventions to manage stress effectively in medical education, considering its profound impact on students' well-being.

Comparing the Performance of ChatGPT-4 and Medical Students on MCQs at Varied Levels of Bloom's Taxonomy.

Introduction: This research investigated the capabilities of ChatGPT-4 compared to medical students in answering MCQs using the revised Bloom's Taxonomy as a benchmark. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at The University of the West Indies, Barbados. ChatGPT-4 and medical students were assessed on MCQs from various medical courses using computer-based testing. Results: The study included 304 MCQs. Students demonstrated good knowledge, with 78% correctly answering at least 90% of the questions. However, ChatGPT-4 achieved a higher overall score (73.7%) compared to students (66.7%). Course type significantly affected ChatGPT-4's performance, but revised Bloom's Taxonomy levels did not. A detailed association check between program levels and Bloom's taxonomy levels for correct answers by ChatGPT-4 showed a highly significant correlation (p<0.001), reflecting a concentration of "remember-level" questions in preclinical and "evaluate-level" questions in clinical courses. Discussion: The study highlights ChatGPT-4's proficiency in standardized tests but indicates limitations in clinical reasoning and practical skills. This performance discrepancy suggests that the effectiveness of artificial intelligence (AI) varies based on course content. Conclusion: While ChatGPT-4 shows promise as an educational tool, its role should be supplementary, with strategic integration into medical education to leverage its strengths and address limitations. Further research is needed to explore AI's impact on medical education and student performance across educational levels and courses.

Cultural context and self-care impact on medical students' quality of life. A mixed-methods approach.

BACKGROUND: Medical education can make it difficult for students to take actions to improve their health. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the influence of the university context on self-care behaviors and quality of life. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A mixed-methods approach was used, with surveys being combined to assess self-care and quality of life, with in-depth interviews to explore cultural influences and perceptions. Statistical analysis and qualitative data coding were carried out, with methods being integrated through network analysis. RESULTS: Self-care scores exceeded 50 points, and quality of life scores exceeded 60 points. Medical students' context is shaped by motivations, expectations, skills, and goals that influence identity formation and contribute to the medical profession. CONCLUSIONS: There is a positive connection between self-care practices and quality of life. However, academic stress can potentially disrupt self-care routines. Furthermore, an association between obesity and a decrease in quality of life stands out, which emphasizes the need for health promotion actions.

ANTECEDENTES: La educación médica puede dificultar que los estudiantes realicen acciones para mejorar su salud. OBJETIVO: Evaluar la influencia del contexto universitario en los comportamientos de autocuidado y la calidad de vida. ­. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se empleó un enfoque de métodos mixtos, combinando encuestas para evaluar el autocuidado y la calidad de vida, con entrevistas en profundidad para explorar influencias culturales y percepciones. Se llevaron a cabo análisis estadísticos y codificación de datos cualitativos; los métodos se integraron a través del análisis de redes. RESULTADOS: Las puntuaciones de autocuidado superaron los 50 puntos y las de calidad de vida, los 60 puntos. El contexto de los estudiantes de medicina está moldeado por motivaciones, expectativas, habilidades y metas que influyen en la formación de la identidad y contribuyen a la profesión médica. CONCLUSIONES: Existe una conexión positiva entre prácticas de autocuidado y la calidad de vida; sin embargo, el estrés académico pueden interrumpir potencialmente las rutinas de autocuidado. Además, se destaca la asociación entre la obesidad y la afectación en la calidad de vida, lo que enfatiza la necesidad de acciones de promoción de la salud.

Irritable bowel syndrome and erectile dysfunction in medical students at a Peruvian university: an analytical cross-sectional analysis.

Background: There is inconclusive evidence regarding the role of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in the development of erectile dysfunction (ED), especially among medical students due to high academic stress. Aim: To determine the association between IBS and ED in medical students from a Peruvian university in 2022. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted with secondary data analysis on 133 medical students from a university in northern Peru during the 2021-II academic semester. The dependent variable was ED as measured with the 5-item International Index of Erectile Function, and the exposure variable was IBS as assessed with the Rome IV-Bristol questionnaire. Outcomes: The results were the prevalence rates of IBS and ED and the association of these variables. Results: Of the 133 medical students surveyed, the median age was 22 years (IQR, 19-24). The median score on the 5-item International Index of Erectile Function was 21 (IQR, 10-24). The prevalence of ED was 38.4% (95% CI, 30.05%-47.17%). Among the medical students 3% and 9% displayed moderate and severe ED, respectively, and 24.8%, 13.5%, and 24.1% showed moderate depressive, anxious, and severe symptoms. An overall 10.5% had IBS. Medical students with IBS had a 108% higher prevalence of ED than those without the syndrome (prevalence ratio, 2.08; 95% CI, 1.06-4.06). Other confounding variables were not significantly associated (P > .05). Clinical Implications: The results underline the importance of comprehensive sexual and mental health assessment, with an emphasis on the relationship between IBS and ED in medical students. Strengths and Limitations: Strengths include the use of validated and reliable instruments and rigorous biostatistical methods, and this is the first Peruvian investigation to explain the association between IBS and ED in medical students. Limitations include the cross-sectional design and nonprobability sampling, and there may be bias in applying the instruments. Conclusion: This study reveals a significant association between IBS and a higher prevalence of ED in these students.

Mood and Sleep Quality in Peruvian Medical Students During COVID-19 Pandemic.

INTRODUCTION: The prolongation and consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic have led to an uncertain and devastating panorama in many populations, and the evidence shows a high prevalence of mental health problems in medical students. The objective was to evaluate the association between mood disorders and sleep quality (SQ) in Peruvian medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 310 medical students from a private university in Peru. The SQ was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), while mood disorders were evaluated using the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21). All information was collected by online surveys and then analysed in the R programming language. RESULTS: The SQ results measured by PSQI were poor in 83.9% of the medical students. In the Poison regression analysis, the results of the bivariate analysis in men show that all mood disorders found the prevalence of poor SQ. However, in the multivariate analysis only stress (PRa=1.30; 95% CI, 1.08-1.57; P<0.01) and anxiety (PRa=1.34; 95% CI, 1.09-1.56; P <0.01) increased the prevalence of poor SQ. Women had a similar pattern in bivariate analysis, whereas in multivariate analysis, only severe stress (PRa=1.15; 95% CI, 1.01-1.29; P <0.05) increased the prevalence of poor SQ. CONCLUSIONS: This study allows us to observe the consequences that the COVID-19 pandemic is having on medical students in Peru. It also revealed a population group vulnerable to poor quality of sleep and bad mood, which in the future will impact on health. It is suggested to educate medical students about the importance of proper sleep hygiene and the consequences of poor sleep hygiene practices.

Addressing medical student burnout through informal peer-assisted learning: a correlational analysis.

BACKGROUND: Despite the recognized advantages of Peer-Assisted Learning (PAL) in academic settings, there is a notable absence of research analyzing its effects on students' Academic Burnout. This study aims to cover this gap by assessing the underlying effectiveness of Informal Peer-Assisted Learning (IPAL) as a cooperative learning method, focusing on its potential to mitigate academic burnout among medical students. METHODS: In 2022, a cross-sectional study was conducted at the School of Medicine, Universidad Central del Caribe, in Puerto Rico. The research team gathered data from 151 participants, 49.19% of 307 total student body. This cohort included 76 female students, 71 male students, and 4 individuals saying other. The School Burnout Inventory questionnaire (SBI-9) was employed to assess Academic Burnout, along with an added query about self-reported IPAL. The SBI-9 underwent validation processes to ascertain its reliability and validity, incorporating the Exploratory Factor Analysis and Confirmatory Factor Analysis. Following this, the investigators conducted an analysis to determine the correlation between academic burnout levels and involvement in IPAL. RESULTS: The validation process of the questionnaire affirmed its alignment with an eight-item inventory, encapsulating two principal factors that elucidate academic burnout. The first factor pertains to exhaustion, while the second encompasses the combined subscales of cynicism and inadequacy. The questionnaire shows high reliability (Cronbach's alpha = 0.829) and good fit indices (Comparative Fit Index = 0.934; Tucker-Lewis Index = 0.902; Standardized Root Mean Squared Residual = 0.0495; Root Mean Squared Error of Approximation = 0.09791; p-value < 0.001). The factors proven in the selected model were used to evaluate the correlation between Academic Burnout and IPAL. Students engaged in IPAL showed significantly lower academic burnout prevalence compared to those who never participated in such practices, with a mean academic burnout score of 44.75% (SD 18.50) for IPAL engaged students versus 54.89% (SD 23.71) for those who never engaged in such practices (p-value < 0.013). Furthermore, within the group engaged in IPAL, students displayed lower levels of cynicism/inadequacy 41.98% (SD 23.41) compared to exhaustion 52.25% (SD 22.42) with a p-value < 0.001. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study underscore a notable issue of academic burnout among medical students within the surveyed cohort. The investigation reveals a significant correlation between Academic Burnout and IPAL, suggesting that incorporating IPAL strategies may be beneficial in addressing burnout in medical education settings. However, further research is needed to explore potential causal mechanisms.

Psychometric Properties of a Short Academic Motivation Scale (SAMS) in Medical Students.

Background: Medical education represents a complex field of study, influenced by various psychological, demographic, and contextual factors. Academic motivation, essential for educational success, has been linked to critical decisions in medical careers and can be modulated by contextual elements such as socioeconomic and geographical environments. The theory of self-determination has provided a solid framework for understanding the multidimensional nature of motivation. Objective: To evaluate the psychometric properties of a Spanish version of the Short Scale of Academic Motivation among Peruvian medical students. Methods: Using an instrumental design, the factorial structure, reliability, and gender invariance of the SAMS-S were assessed. A confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to validate the scale's structure based on seven dimensions. Additionally, reliability was assessed through Cronbach's alpha coefficient and omega coefficient, and gender invariance was determined through multi-group confirmatory factor analysis. Results: The Peruvian version of the SAMS-S showed a good fit in the CFA with satisfactory goodness-of-fit indices. However, challenges in discriminant validity among certain dimensions were detected, suggesting the presence of a second-order factor. The proposed second-order model yielded an adequate fit (χ2 = 198.26, df = 70, CFI = 0.92, TLI = 0.90, RMSEA = 0.08 [90% CI: 0.07-0.1], SRMR = 0.07), validating the factorial structure of the SAMS-S. The scale's reliability and its subscales were within acceptable ranges. Furthermore, the gender invariance of the SAMS-S was confirmed at all levels, from configural to strict. Conclusions: The second-order model of the SAMS-S presents as a valid and reliable tool for measuring academic motivation among medical students in Peru. Its robustness and adaptability make it relevant for future research in similar educational contexts and can serve as a basis for interventions aimed at improving academic motivation in this specific group.

Medical students' knowledge about human papillomavirus (HPV), HPV vaccine and head and neck cancer.

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection that significantly affects the population worldwide. HPV preventive methods include vaccination, prophylactics, and education. Different types of cancers associated with HPV usually take years or decades to develop after infections, such as Head and Neck Cancer(HNC). Therefore, HPV prevention can be considered cancer prevention. A sample of medical students in Puerto Rico was evaluated to assess their knowledge about HPV, HPV vaccine, and HNC through two previously validated online questionnaires composed of 38 dichotomized questions, we measured HPV, HPV vaccination(HPVK), and HNC knowledge (HNCK). Out of 104 students surveyed, the mean HPVK score obtained was 20.07/26, SD = 3.86, while the mean score for HNCK was 6.37/12, SD = 1.78. Bidirectional stepwise regression showed study year and HPV Vaccine name had been the most influential variables on HPVK and HNCK. MS1 participants scored lower than MS2-MS4 participants, with no significant difference between MS2-MS4 scores. The results reveal knowledge gaps in HPV/HPV Vaccine and HNC among surveyed medical students. Our findings also suggest an association between knowledge of personal vaccination status, self-perceived risk, and how uncertainty in these factors may affect the medical students' understanding of HPV, HPV vaccination, and associated cancers.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome in medical students at a Peruvian university: a cross-sectional study.

Background: Irritable Bowel Syndrome has emerged as a significant public health challenge, particularly relevant in medical students due to the high demands of their studies, academic stress, and susceptibility to eating disorders. Nevertheless, conclusive evidence regarding the factors associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome in the Latin American student population remains limited. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Human Medicine students at a university in northern Peru. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study conducted in Lambayeque, northern Peru. With 403 Human Medicine students (66.5% female, 33.5% male). A simple random probabilistic sampling type was used, based on a list of students enrolled. A multivariate analysis was conducted to determine the factors associated using simple and multiple regression models. Generalized Linear Models were applied, using the Poisson distribution family, robust variance, and the academic year as a cluster. Results: The prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome was 16.9% (95% CI: 13.37-20.86). The median age was 21 years, with 66.5% being female. In the multiple regression analysis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome was associated with a higher prevalence of depression (PR: 3.63; 95% CI: 1.26-10.49) and eating disorders (PR: 1.57; 95% CI: 1.01-2.43). For each additional year of age, the prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome decreased by 9% (PR: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.83-0.99). Conclusion: This study reveals that approximately two out of every 10 students exhibit symptoms related to IBS, underscoring its significance in the Human Medicine student population. Furthermore, depression and eating disorders were identified as significant factors associated with IBS in students. Consequently, it is essential to focus efforts on early identification and the implementation of preventive measures to mitigate the development of this pathology, given its substantial prevalence in this context of Human Medicine students.

Mindfulness training in medical education as a means to improve resilience, empathy, and mental health in the medical profession.

The high rates of depression, burnout, and increased risk of suicide among medical students, residents, and physicians in comparison with other careers signal a mental health crisis within our profession. We contend that this crisis coupled with the inadequate acquisition of interpersonal skills during medical education results from the interaction between a challenging environment and the mental capital of individuals. Additionally, we posit that mindfulness-based practices are instrumental for the development of major components of mental capital, such as resilience, flexibility of mind, and learning skills, while also serving as a pathway to enhance empathy, compassion, self-awareness, conflict resolution, and relational abilities. Importantly, the evidence base supporting the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions has been increasing over the years, and a growing number of medical schools have already integrated mindfulness into their curricula. While we acknowledge that mindfulness is not a panacea for all educational and mental health problems in this field, we argue that there is currently an unprecedented opportunity to gather momentum, spread and study mindfulness-based programs in medical schools around the world as a way to address some longstanding shortcomings of the medical profession and the health and educational systems upon which it is rooted.

Consumo de bebida alcoólica por estudantes de medicina: um panorama global / Alcohol consumption by medical students: a global overview / Consumo de alcohol por estudiantes de medicina: una visión global

O consumo de bebidas alcoólicas representa um dos principais fatores de risco de envolvimento em acidentes de trânsito. Objetivou-se analisar o panorama geral de consumo de bebida alcoólica por estudantes de medicina e as implicações nos acidentes de trânsito. Foram consultadas as bases de dados SciELO, PubMed e Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde e incluídos dez artigos completos disponíveis entre 2010 e 2022, em língua portuguesa e inglesa. Resultou que o consumo de bebidas alcoólicas pelos estudantes variou de 76,6% a 81,2%, e que ingerir bebidas alcoólicas expõe os motoristas ao envolvimento em acidentes de trânsito 68% maior do que os que não estão expostos a tal fator. Concluiu-se que os estudantes de medicina, população jovem, apresentam um alto índice de consumo de bebidas alcoólicas, e os motivos envolvidos apontam para o nível de pressão do curso, alta carga horária, períodos do curso mais avançados, festas acadêmicas e morar sem os pais.

The consumption of alcoholic drinks represents one of the main risk factors for the involvement in traffic accidents. The objective of this study was to analyze the general panorama of alcohol consumption by medical students and the implications for traffic accidents. SciELO, PubMed and Virtual Health Library databases were consulted, and ten full articles available between 2010 and 2022, in Portuguese and English, were included. The results obtained were that the consumption of alcoholic drinks by students ranged from 76.6% to 81.2%, and that alcohol drinking exposes drivers to involvement in 68% more traffic accidents than those who are not exposed to such factor. It was concluded that medical students, a young population, have a high rate of consumption of alcoholic beverages, and the reasons involved point to the level of pressure of the medical school, high workload, seniority in the program, academic parties, and living without the parents

El consumo de bebidas alcohólicas representa uno de los principales factores de riesgo de implicación en accidentes de tráfico. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar el panorama del consumo de alcohol por los estudiantes de medicina y las implicaciones en los accidentes de tránsito. Se consultaron las bases de datos SciELO, PubMed y Biblioteca Virtual en Salud y se incluyeron diez artículos completos disponibles entre 2010 y 2022, en portugués e inglés. Los resultados obtenidos fueran que el consumo de bebidas alcohólicas osciló entre 76,6% y 81,2%, y que el expone a los conductores a involucrarse en accidentes de tráfico un 68% más que aquellos que non están expuestos a tal factor. Se concluyó que los estudiantes de medicina, una población joven, tienen un alto índice de consumo de bebidas alcohólicas, y los motivos involucrados apuntan para el nivel de presión del curso, alta carga horaria, períodos más avanzados del curso, fiestas académicas y morar sin los padres

Estilos de vida y factores asociados a la automedicación en estudiantes de medicina humana / Lifestyles and factors associated with self-medication in human medicine students / Estilos de vida e fatores associados à automedicação em estudantes de medicina humana

Los estilos de vida adoptados por las personas pueden influir en la automedicación, al afectar sus decisiones sobre el uso de fármacos sin supervisión médica. Objetivo: Indagar en los factores asociados y estilos de vida que influyen en la automedicación en estudiantes de Medicina Humana de la Universidad Nacional de Cajamarca. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio de tipo cuantitativo, analítico correlacional y transversal. Se aplicó el cuestionario "Automedicación", desarrollado por Espilco y Félix en 2020, a 100 estudiantes, el cual consta de 16 ítems distribuidos en las categorías "Factores" (9 ítems) y "Automedicación" (7 ítems), y ha sido validado con un Alfa de Cbronbach de 0.750. Además, se utilizó un Alfa de Bronbach de 0.943 para evaluar los "Estilos de Vida", que abarcan las siguientes dimensiones: actividad física, salud con responsabilidad, nutrición saludable, gestión de tensiones y relaciones interpersonales. Resultados: Se identificó como factores asociados a la automedicación a: demográficos-culturales, donde el estado civil es el más significativo con una (p=0.0205); sociales, siendo significativo el lugar de accesibilidad del medicamento con una (p=0.0001) y la información del medicamento con una (p=0.0014) y finalmente económicos donde tiene más significancia el ingreso mensual del estudiante con una (p=0.0001). Además, se halló una prevalencia de automedicación del 82%, asimismo el tipo de estilo de vida no saludable (86%) y no hubo relación significativa con la automedicación (p=0.8119). Conclusión: Los factores asociados a la automedicación abarcan aspectos demográficos-culturales, sociales y económicos. Se ha observado una alta prevalencia de automedicación, alcanzando un 82%. No se halló una relación significativa entre el nivel de estilo de vida y la práctica de automedicación en este contexto particular.

The lifestyles adopted by people can influence self-medication, by affecting their decisions about the use of drugs without medical upervisión. Objective: To investigate the associated factors and lifestyles that influence self-medication in Human Medicine students of the National University of Cajamarca. Materials and Methods: Quantitative, correlational and cross-sectional analytical study. The questionnaire "Self-medication", developed by Espilco and Félix in 2020, was applied to 100 students, which consists of 16 items distributed in the categories "Factors" (9 items) and "Self-medication" (7 items), and has been validated with a Cbronbach's Alpha of 0.750. In addition, a Bronbach's Alpha of 0.943 was used to evaluate "Lifestyles", which cover the following dimensions: physical activity, health with responsibility, healthy nutrition, stress management and interpersonal relationships. Results: The following were identified as factors associated with self-medication: demographic-cultural, where marital status is the most significant with one (p=0.0205); social, being significant the place of accessibility of the medication with one (p=0.0001) and medication information with one (p=0.0014) and finally economic where the student's monthly income with one has more significance (p=0.0001). In addition, a prevalence of self-medication of 82% was found, as well as the type of unhealthy lifestyle (86%) and there was no significant relationship with self-medication (p=0.8119). Conclusion: The factors associated with self-medication cover demographic-cultural, social and economic aspects. A high prevalence of self-medication has been observed, reaching 82%. No significant relationship was found between lifestyle level and self-medication practice in this particular context.

Os estilos de vida adotados pelas pessoas podem influenciar a automedicação, afetando suas decisões sobre o uso de medicamentos sem supervisão médica. Objetivo: investigar os fatores associados e estilos de vida que influenciam a automedicação em estudantes de Medicina Humana da Universidade Nacional de Cajamarca. Materiais e Métodos: estudo de tipo quantitativo, analítico correlacional e transversal. O questionário "automedicação", desenvolvido por Espilco e Felix em 2020, foi aplicado a 100 estudantes, composto por 16 itens distribuídos nas categorias "fatores" (9 itens) e "automedicação" (7 itens), e foi validado com um Alfa de Cbronbach de 0,750. Além disso, um Alfa de Bronbach de 0, 943 foi usado para avaliar "Estilos de vida", abrangendo as seguintes dimensões: atividade física, saúde com responsabilidade, nutrição saudável, gerenciamento de tensões e relações interpessoais. Resultados: identificou-se como fatores associados à automedicação a: demográficos-culturais, onde o estado civil é o mais significativo com uma (p=0,0205); sociais, sendo significativo o local de acessibilidade do medicamento com uma (p=0,0001) e a informação do medicamento com uma (p=0,0014) e finalmente econômicos onde tem mais significância a renda mensal do estudante com uma (p=0,0001). Além disso, foi encontrada uma prevalência de automedicação de 82%, assim como o tipo de estilo de vida não saudável (86%) e não houve relação significativa com a automedicação (p=0,8119). Conclusão: os fatores associados à automedicação abrangem aspectos demográficos-culturais, sociais e econômicos. Foi observada uma alta prevalência de automedicação, atingindo 82%. Não foi encontrada relação significativa entre o nível de estilo de vida e a prática de automedicação neste contexto particular.

Self-reported side effects of COVID-19 vaccines among health professions students in India.

Studies focusing on the safety and common side effects of vaccines play a crucial role in enhancing public acceptance of vaccination. Research is scarce regarding the usage of COVID-19 vaccines and the side effects experienced by health professions students in India and other countries. This study aimed to document self-reported side effects associated with COVID-19 vaccination among medical and dental students of six medical and dental colleges and teaching hospitals in four states (Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and West Bengal) of India. A cross-sectional survey using purposive sampling of medical and dental students was conducted from 26 April to 26 May 2021. Data was collected using a Google Forms questionnaire capturing information regarding receiving COVID-19 vaccines, side effects and symptoms, onset and duration of symptoms, use of treatment to alleviate symptoms, awareness of haematologic risks associated with vaccination, and side effects from previous (non-COVID-19) vaccinations. The majority (94.5%) of participants received both doses of the Covishield/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. Among participants (n = 492), 45.3% (n = 223) reported one or more side effects. The most frequently reported side effects were soreness of the injected arm (80.3%), tiredness (78.5%), fever (71.3%), headache (64.1%), and hypersomnia (58.7%). The two most common severe symptoms were fever (14.8%) and headache (13%). Most side effects appeared on the day of vaccination: soreness of the injection site (57%), fever (43.1%), and tiredness (42.6%). Most reported symptoms persisted for one to three days-soreness of the injection site (53%), fever (47.1%), and headache (42.6%). Logistic regression showed that women were almost 85% less likely to report side effects. The study's findings corroborate the safety of the Covishield/AstraZeneca vaccine's first dose, evidenced by the relatively minor and transient nature of the side effects. However, the study underscores the necessity for ongoing research to assess the long-term impacts of COVID-19 vaccines, especially in the context of booster doses, thereby contributing to the global understanding of vaccine safety and efficacy.