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.

Prevalence of hypertension and diabetes mellitus in Peruvian patients with chronic kidney disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) represents a major challenge for public health, with hypertension and diabetes being the main causes of its occurrence. Therefore, this study aims to determine the prevalence of hypertension (HTN) and diabetes mellitus (DM) in Peruvian patients with CKD. METHODS: A systematic search for studies about CKD in Peru was carried out in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, Virtual Health Library (VHL), and Scielo from 2011 to December 2023. The protocol of this research was registered in the international registry of systematic reviews, the Prospective International Registry of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), with registration number CRD42023425118. Study selection, quality assessment, and data extraction were performed independently by two authors. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Statistical Meta-Analysis Assessment and Review Instrument. A random-effects model with inverse variance weighting was used to estimate the combined prevalence of HTN and DM in Peruvian patients with CKD. To analyze data heterogeneity, the I2 statistical test was used. Statistical analysis was performed with R version 4.2.3. RESULTS: A total of 1425 studies were retrieved, of which 23 were included in the final meta-analysis. A total of 43,321 patients with CKD were evaluated, of whom 52.22% were male and 47.78% were female. The combined prevalence of HTN in Peruvian patients with CKD was 38% (95% CI: 30-46%; 41,131 participants; 21 studies, I2 = 99%, p = 0), while the combined prevalence of DM in Peruvian patients with CKD was 33% (95% CI: 26-40%; 43,321 participants; 23 studies, I2 = 99%, p = 0). CONCLUSION: Approximately one-third of Peruvian patients with CKD have HTN and DM. These findings highlight the importance of implementing prevention and control measures for these chronic noncommunicable diseases in the Peruvian population, such as promoting healthy lifestyles, encouraging early detection and proper management of hypertension and diabetes, and improving access to medical care and health services.

Factors associated with intention to be vaccinated with the COVID-19 booster dose: a cross-sectional study in Peru.

Introduction: The pandemic of COVID-19 continues to impact people worldwide, with more than 755 million confirmed cases and more than 6.8 million reported deaths. Although two types of treatment, antiviral and immunomodulatory therapy, have been approved to date, vaccination has been the best method to control the spread of the disease. Objective: To explore factors associated with the intention to be vaccinated with the COVID-19 booster dose in Peru. Material and Methods: Cross-sectional study, using virtual and physical surveys of adults with two or more doses of COVID-19 vaccine, where the dependent variable was the intention to be vaccinated (IBV) with the booster dose. We calculated prevalence ratios with 95% confidence intervals, using generalized linear models of the Poisson family with robust varying, determining associations between sociodemographic, clinical, and booster dose perception variables. Results: Data from 924 adults were analyzed. The IBV of the booster doses was 88.1%. A higher prevalence was associated with being male (aPR = 1.05; 95% CI [1.01-1.10]), having a good perception of efficacy and protective effect (PR = 3.69; 95% CI [2.57-5.30]) and belonging to the health sector (PR = 1.10; 95% CI [1.04-1.16]). There was greater acceptance of the recommendation of physicians and other health professionals (aPR = 1.40; 95% CI [1.27-1.55]). Conclusions: Factors associated with higher IBV with booster dose include male gender, health sciences, physician recommendation, and good perception of efficacy.

Prevalence and associated factors of premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction in young, single men who have sex with men in Lima, Peru.

Background: While there is literature on erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation (PE) in men, conclusive evidence regarding these sexual health issues and potential associated factors in the young, single men who have sex with men (MSM) population is lacking. Aim: The study sought to determine the prevalence and factors associated with PE and ED in young single MSM in the capital of Peru. Methods: This was an analytical cross-sectional study in MSM using an online questionnaire. The presence of ED and PE was assessed using the 5-item International Index of Erectile Function and 5-item Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool questionnaires, respectively. In addition, their association with personal, physical health, and sexual behavior variables was evaluated. Prevalence ratios (PRs) were estimated through regression models. Outcomes: Premature ejaculation and Erectile dysfunction in MSM. Results: Of 315 participants, most were between 20 to 29 years of age (71.8%), 43.5% identified as homosexual, 59.1% had between 2 and 5 sexual partners, and 40.6% reported that the duration of their sexual relationship was between 1 and 12 months. The prevalence of ED was 53.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 47.66%-58.95%), and PE was present in 8.3% (95% CI, 5.46%-11.86%). Factors associated with a higher prevalence of ED were having between 6 and 9 sexual partners (PR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.05-2.11) and having a sexual relationship lasting 13 to 24 months (PR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.50-0.98). Furthermore, for each additional year from the onset of the first sexual encounter with another man, the prevalence of PE increased by 7% (PR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.02-1.13). Clinical Implications: These findings suggest that there is a relationship between an increased number of sexual partners and a higher prevalence of ED. It also suggests that relationships that last for some time may have a protective effect against ED. Strengths and Limitations: Strengths include the use of validated instruments, adequate sample size, robust multivariate analysis, and being one of the few studies in Latin America assessing PE and ED in the MSM population. Limitations include the cross-sectional design, nonprobability sampling, and access to participants. Conclusion: Having more sexual partners is associated with increased ED, while relationships lasting 13 to 24 months are associated with decreased ED. Each additional year from the onset of the first sexual relationship increases the prevalence of PE. These findings can guide the design of health policies and programs tailored to the MSM community to enhance their well-being and sexual quality of life.

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.

Prevalence and factors associated with fear of COVID-19 in military personnel during the second epidemic wave in Peru.

Introduction: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the mounting workload and heightened stress may contribute to exacerbated mental health challenges, including an increased fear of COVID-19, among military personnel. Despite the potential influence of these factors, there remains a scarcity of studies addressing mental health issues, particularly the fear of COVID-19, within this specific population. We aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with fear of COVID-19 among military members. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2 and 9, 2021, during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Lambayeque region, Peru. The outcome variable was fear of COVID-19, assessed using the Fear of COVID-19 Scale. The association with resilience (Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, abbreviated as CD-RISC), food insecurity (Household Food Insecurity Access Scale, abbreviated as HFIAS), physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form, abbreviated as IPAQ-S), eating disorder (Eating Attitudes Test-26, abbreviated as EAT-26), and other socio- demographic variables was assessed. Results: Among the 525 participants, the median age was 22, 95.8% were male, and 19.2% experienced fear of COVID-19. A higher prevalence of fear of COVID-19 was associated with age (PR=1.03; 95% CI: 1.01-1.06), religion (PR=2.05; 95% CI: 1.04-4.05), eating disorder (PR=2.95; 95% CI: 1.99-4.36), and having a relative with mental disorder (PR=2.13; 95% CI: 1.09-4.17). Overweight (PR=0.58; 95% CI: 0.37-0.90) and a high level of resilience (PR=0.63; 95% CI: 0.43-0.93) were associated with a lower prevalence of fear of COVID-19. Discussion: Two out of ten military personnel were afraid of COVID-19. Our results highlight the need for targeted interventions addressing the factors contributing to fear of COVID-19 among military personnel, emphasizing the significance of mental health support and preventive measures within this specific population.

Prevalence of computer vision syndrome during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Computer vision syndrome has become a significant public health problem, especially in developing countries. Therefore, this study aims to identify the prevalence of computer vision syndrome during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature was conducted using the databases PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase up to February 22, 2023, using the search terms "Computer Vision Syndrome" and "COVID-19". Three authors independently performed study selection, quality assessment, and data extraction, and the Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument was used to evaluate study quality. Heterogeneity was assessed using the statistical test I2, and the R version 4.2.3 program was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: A total of 192 studies were retrieved, of which 18 were included in the final meta-analysis. The total sample included 10,337 participants from 12 countries. The combined prevalence of computer vision syndrome was 74% (95% CI: 66, 81). Subgroup analysis based on country revealed a higher prevalence of computer vision syndrome in Pakistan (99%, 95% CI: 97, 100) and a lower prevalence in Turkey (48%, 95% CI: 44, 52). In addition, subgroup analysis based on study subjects showed a prevalence of 82% (95% CI: 74, 89) for computer vision syndrome in non-students and 70% (95% CI: 60, 80) among students. CONCLUSION: According to the study, 74% of the participants experienced computer vision syndrome during the COVID-19 pandemic. Given this finding, it is essential to implement preventive and therapeutic measures to reduce the risk of developing computer vision syndrome and improve the quality of life of those affected. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The protocol for this systematic review and meta-analysis was registered in the international registry of systematic reviews, the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), with registration number CRD42022345965.

Prevalence of intentions to receive monkeypox vaccine. A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Immunization, as a preventive strategy against infectious diseases, has consolidated its position as a fundamental pillar in the field of public health. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the prevalence of the intention to receive the monkeypox (Mpox) vaccine. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the available evidence was performed using five databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and ScienceDirect) with a search strategy until July 24, 2023. Data analysis was performed in R software version 4.2.3. The quality of the included cross-sectional studies was assessed using the "JBI-MAStARI". In addition, a subgroup analysis by population and continent was developed. RESULTS: Twenty-nine cross-sectional articles with a total sample of 52 658 participants were included. The pooled prevalence of intention to vaccinate against Mpox was 61% (95% CI: 53-69%; 52,658 participants; 29 studies; I2 = 100%). In the subgroup analysis, the intention to be vaccinated against Mpox according to continents was 64% (95% CI: 53-74%; 13,883 participants; 17 studies; I2 = 99%) in Asian countries, 43% (95% CI: 39-47%; 1538 participants; 3 studies; I2 = 53%) in African countries, 62% (95% CI: 45-78%; 35,811 participants; 6 studies; I2 = 99%) in European countries, and 63% (95% CI: 32-89%; 1426 participants; 3 studies; I2 = 99%) in American countries. In the subgroup analysis on the intention to be vaccinated against Mpox, according to study subjects, it was 54% (95% CI: 45-62%; 10,296 participants; 11 studies; I2 = 99%) in the general population, 57% (95% CI: 33-79%; 3333 participants; 10 studies; I2 = 99%) in health care workers, and 76% (95% CI: 70-82%; 39,029 participants; 8 studies; I2 = 98%) in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) community. In addition, as a secondary outcome, a prevalence of refusal of Mpox vaccination was found to be 22% (95% CI: 16-30%; 45,577 participants; 21 studies; I2 = 99%). CONCLUSION: The study highlights the importance of recognizing regional and subgroup disparities in Mpox vaccine willingness and refusal. It emphasizes the importance of employing strategies to achieve widespread vaccination coverage and safeguard public health worldwide. TERMS USED: Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument (JBI-MAStARI), Prospective International Registry of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA).

Sources of information on monkeypox virus infection. A systematic review with meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Monkeypox (Mpox) virus infection is a topic of growing interest today because of its potential public health impact and concern about possible outbreaks. Reliable and up-to-date sources of information that provide accurate data on its transmission, symptoms, prevention, and treatment are essential for understanding and effectively addressing this disease. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to determine the prevalence of sources of information on Mpox virus infection. METHODS: An exhaustive systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out using the information available in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and ScienceDirect databases up to August 3, 2023. The data were analyzed using R software version 4.2.3. The quality of the cross-sectional studies that formed part of this review was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument (JBI-MAStARI) tool. In addition, a subgroup analysis was performed based on the study populations. RESULTS: Through electronic searches of five databases, a total of 1833 studies were identified. Twenty-four cross-sectional articles were included, with a total sample of 35,959 participants from 34 countries. The pooled prevalence of each of the included information sources was: social networks reached 59% (95% CI: 50-68%; 29,146 participants; 22 studies; I2 = 100%; p < 0.01); the Internet was 61% (95% CI: 44-77%; 14,002 participants; 5 studies; I2 = 100%; p < 0.01), radio reached 10% (95% CI: 07-13%; 8917 participants; 4 studies; I2 = 93%; p < 0.01), television accounted for 24% (95% CI: 09-43%; 14,896 participants; 8 studies; I2 = 100%; p < 0.01), and the combination of radio and television accounted for 45% (95% CI: 31-60%; 4207 participants; 7 studies; I2 = 99%; p < 0.01); for newspapers, it was 15% (95% CI: 05-27%; 2841 participants; 6 studies; I2 = 99%; p < 0.01), friends and relatives accounted for 19% (95% CI: 12-28%; 28,470 participants; 19 studies; I2 = 100%; p < 0.01), the World Health Organization (WHO) accounted for 17% (95% CI: 07-29%; 1656 participants; 3 studies; I2 = 97%; p < 0.01), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) accounted for 10% (95% CI: 03-21%; 2378 participants; 3 studies; I2 = 98%; p < 0.01), and the combination of WHO and CDC websites accounted for 60% (95% CI: 48-72%; 1828 participants; 4 studies; I2 = 96%; p < 0.01), and finally, scientific articles and journals accounted for 24% (95% CI: 16-33%; 16,775 participants; 13 studies; I2 = 99%; p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: The study suggests that people access a variety of information sources to gain knowledge about Mpox virus infection, with a strong emphasis on online sources such as social networks and the Internet. However, it is important to note that the quality and accuracy of information available from these sources can vary, underscoring the need to promote access to reliable and up-to-date information about this disease to ensure public health.

Depression, anxiety, and stress in medical students in Peru: a cross-sectional study.

Objective: To determine the prevalence and factors associated with depressive, anxious, and stress symptoms in medical students in Peru, during the second pandemic wave of COVID-19. Methods: We conducted an analytical cross-sectional study in 405 medical students from a university in northern Peru. The DASS-21 instrument was used to evaluate mental health outcomes (depression, anxiety, and stress), and to investigate their association with socio-educational characteristics. Results: We found a prevalence of depressive, anxious, and stress symptoms of 71.6% (95% CI: 66.94-75.95), 71.9% (95% CI: 67.2-76.2), and 62.7% (95% CI: 57.8-67.4); respectively. Students with eating behavior disorders had a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms (PR: 1.35), anxious symptoms (PR: 1.27), and stress symptoms (PR: 1.31). The prevalence of depressive symptoms (PR: 1.57), anxious symptoms (PR: 1.27), and stress symptoms (PR: 1.24) increased in students who did not report regular physical activity. In addition, having almost always academic exhaustion increased the prevalence of depressive symptoms (PR: 1.46), stress symptoms (PR: 1.72). On the contrary, the prevalence of depressive symptoms (PR: 0.79), anxious symptoms (PR: 0.73) and stress symptoms (PR: 0.82) decreased in male students. Students who reported sleeping 8 or more hours daily had a lower prevalence of stress symptoms (PR: 0.82). Conclusion: Symptoms of depression and anxiety occurred in 7 out of 10 students, and stress in 6 out of 10. Among the factors associated with the presence of anxiety, depression, and stress were eating behavior disorder and not regularly exercising. Periodic evaluations of mental symptomatology are required and counseling should be promoted in medical schools.

Evidence-based indications for ivermectin in parasitic diseases: An integrated approach to context and challenges in Peru.

Ivermectin has emerged as a therapeutic option for various parasitic diseases, including strongyloidiasis, scabies, lice infestations, gnathostomiasis, and myiasis. This study comprehensively reviews the evidence-based indications for ivermectin in treating parasitic diseases, considering the unique context and challenges in Peru. Fourteen studies were selected from a systematic search of scientific evidence on ivermectin in PubMed, from 2010 to July 2022. The optimal dosage of ivermectin for treating onchocerciasis, strongyloidiasis, and enterobiasis ranges from 150 to 200 µg/kg, while lymphatic filariasis requires a higher dose of 400 µg/kg (Brown et al., 2000). However, increased dosages have been associated with a higher incidence of ocular adverse events. Scientific evidence shows that ivermectin can be safely and effectively administered to children weighing less than 15 kg. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses provide strong support for the efficacy and safety of ivermectin in combating parasitic infections. Ivermectin has proven to be an effective treatment for various parasitic diseases, including intestinal parasites, ectoparasites, filariasis, and onchocerciasis. Dosages ranging from 200 µg/kg to 400 µg/kg are generally safe, with adjustments made according to the specific pathology, patient age, and weight/height. Given Peru's prevailing social and environmental conditions, the high burden of intestinal parasites and ectoparasites in the country underscores the importance of ivermectin in addressing these health challenges.

Food insecurity in Piura, Peru, in the context of post-earthquake and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Introduction: Piura, located in a seismic zone, faces challenges related to food security. The aim of this study was to analyze aspects related to food insecurity in the region following the 6.1-magnitude earthquake that occurred in 2021, within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A secondary analysis was performed in 177 people exposed to the earthquake in Piura. Food insecurity was assessed with the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale. Its association with insomnia, resilience, anxiety/depressive symptoms, and general variables were determined using generalized linear models. Results: Food insecurity was observed in 31.1% (95% CI: 24.3-38.4) of participants. This prevalence was higher in people with mild (PR: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.12-2.70) and moderate (PR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.09-2.22) anxiety symptoms, severe depressive symptoms (PR: 2.74, 95% CI: 1.24-6.03), and previous exposure to the El Niño Phenomenon (PR: 1.72; 95% CI: 1.06-2.81). An income higher than 5000 Peruvian soles (approximately 1300 US dollars) was associated with a lower prevalence of food insecurity (PR: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.13-0.40). Conclusions: Overall, three out of 10 individuals experienced food insecurity after the 2021 earthquake in Piura. Food insecurity may be aggravated by mental disorders, previous exposure to the El Niño phenomenon, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Our study contributes to the field by exploring a range of variables related to food insecurity in a unique context: post-earthquake and during the COVID-19 health emergency in Peru. These findings enhance our understanding of food insecurity at the regional level and highlight the need for preventive food security programs in seismic events.

Association between the use of Sci-Hub and consultation of scientific journals by medical students from six Latin American countries: A secondary analysis.

Introduction and objective: Sci-Hub is a website that allows users to download full-text versions of millions of scientific articles for free. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between the use of Sci-Hub and consultation of scientific journals by medical students from six Latin American countries. Methods: We conducted a secondary analysis of data from a 2017 cross-sectional study of medical students from six Latin American countries (Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, and Peru). Consultation of scientific journals was considered as the dependent variable, while the independent variable was the use of Sci-Hub. Responses were categorized as: "do not know"; "did not use it"; "used it at least once a week"; "used it more than once a week"; and "used it every day of the month". In simple and multiple regression analyses, multivariate random-effects models were used to estimate prevalence ratios (PR), with 95% confident intervals (CI). Results: Of the 6632 participants, 38.2% consulted scientific journals and 10.3% used Sci-Hub once a week. Using Sci-Hub at least once a week was associated with a 20% increase in the prevalence of consulting scientific journals (PR: 1.20, 95% CI: 1.10-1.31, p < 0.001). The variables positively associated with Sci-Hub use included being in the sixth year of medical school (PR: 2.34), affiliation to more than one academic research group (PR: 1.81), being a medical student in Colombia (PR: 1.63), intermediate (PR: 1.16) and advanced levels of English (PR: 1.23), and daily use of PubMed (PR: 1.66), SciELO (PR: 1.87), and/or SCOPUS (PR: 1.58). Conclusion: Amongst medical students surveyed from the above six Latin American countries, the use of Sci-Hub at least once a week was significantly associated with the self-reported prevalence of consulting scientific journals.

Association between Love Breakup and Suicidal Ideation in Peruvian Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Study during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Objective: We aimed to determine the association between a major romantic breakup and suicidal ideation in medical students from three universities in Peru. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted during the first pandemic wave in 2021 on medical students from three universities in northern Peru. The outcome was suicidal ideation, measured with question nine of the PHQ-9. The exposure was the experience of a major love breakup during the pandemic. In addition, its association with other covariates (age, sex, family members infected with COVID-19, deceased family members with COVID-19, insomnia, and anxiety, among others) was examined. Results and discussions: Out of 370 students, 19.5% reported a major love breakup during the pandemic (95%CI: 15.5-23.8), and 34.3% had suicidal ideation (95%CI: 29.4-39.4). Having a major love breakup was associated with a higher prevalence of suicidal ideation (PR: 1.49, 95%CI: 1.32-1.67). Moderate insomnia (PR: 2.56, 95%CI: 1.70-3.87) and anxiety symptoms (PR: 1.94, 1.10-3.44) were also associated with suicidal ideation. Conclusion: Our study provides evidence of a significant association between a major love breakup and suicidal ideation. This finding emphasizes the need for further research to better understand this association and inform the development of effective suicide prevention policies in medical education.

Association between childhood trauma and mental health disorders in adolescents during the second pandemic wave of COVID-19, Chiclayo-Peru.

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected mental health, with children and adolescents being particularly vulnerable. Evidence on the association between childhood trauma and mental health outcomes in schoolchildren during the pandemic is limited. This study aimed to evaluate this relationship in Chiclayo city, northern Peru, during the second wave of COVID-19. Methods: A cross-sectional secondary data study was conducted, measuring childhood trauma using the Marshall's Trauma Scale, depressive symptomatology (PHQ-9), and anxiety symptomatology (GAD-7). Additional variables assessed were alcohol use (AUDIT), resilience (abbreviated CD-RISC), and socio-educational data. Prevalence ratios were estimated using generalized linear models. Results: Among 456 participants, 88.2% were female, with a mean age of 14.5 years (SD: 1.33). Depressive symptomatology prevalence was 76.3% (95%CI: 72.14-80.15) and increased by 23% in schoolchildren with childhood trauma (PR: 1.23; 95%CI: 1.10-1.37). Factors positively associated with depressive symptomatology included increasing age, seeking mental health help during the pandemic, and severe family dysfunction. Anxiety symptomatology prevalence was 62.3% (95%CI: 57.65-66.75) and increased by 55% in schoolchildren with childhood trauma (PR: 1.55; 95%CI: 1.31-1.85). Anxiety symptomatology was positively associated with mild, moderate, and severe family dysfunction. Conclusion: Schoolchildren exposed to childhood trauma are at increased risk for depressive and anxiety symptoms. Monitoring the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescent mental health is vital. These findings can assist schools in establishing effective measures to prevent mental health outcomes.

Post-Traumatic Stress Associated with Telework-Related Job Limitation in Latin America.

During the pandemic, there has been evidence of work limitations during telework, which are believed to cause mental health problems. Our objective was to assess the association between perceived work limitations during telework and posttraumatic stress during the COVID-19 pandemic in Latin America. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Latin America in 2020. Exposure was measured by self-reporting using a self-perception questionnaire; the SPRINT-E questionnaire was used for outcome measurements. Generalized linear models were applied. Of 1329 participants, 15.2% (n = 202) had posttraumatic stress. In a multivariate analysis, the highest frequency of posttraumatic stress was found among those with moderate depression or more (PR = 1.29; 95% CI: 1.03-1.61), moderate or more anxiety (PR = 2.34; 95% CI: 1.61-3.41), and moderate or more stress (PR = 2.45; 95% CI: 1.46-4.12). In conclusion, there is an association between perceived work limitations during telework and posttraumatic stress in Latin American workers. For this reason, it is recommended that occupational physicians, companies, and institutions assess the frequency of posttraumatic stress and monitor the mental health of workers.

Internet addiction and mental health disorders in high school students in a Peruvian region: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the association between internet addiction disorder (IAD) and anxiety and depressive symptomatology in high school students in two private schools in Chiclayo, Peru, during the COVID-19 pandemic. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Analytical cross-sectional investigation of 505 adolescents from two private schools. The dependent variables were anxiety and depressive symptomatology, measured with the Beck Adapted Depression Questionnaire (BDI-IIA) and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), respectively. The main independent variable was IAD, measured with the Internet Addiction Test instrument(IATI). Prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were estimated. RESULTS: The average age was 14.16 years and 54.9% were women. 22.2% and 3.2% presented mild and moderate IAD; respectively. 9.3% presented severe anxiety and 34.3% severe depressive symptomatology. In the simple regression, adolescents with mild, moderate and severe IAD presented 19% (PR = 1.19; 95%CI: 1.05-1.35), 25% (PR = 1.25; 95%CI: 1.02-1.53) and 53% (PR = 1.47; 95% CI: 1.47-1.60) higher prevalence of depressive symptomatology; however, this association was not maintained in the multiple model. Anxiety increased 196% in adolescents with severe IAD (PR = 2.96; 95%CI: 1.86-4.71). CONCLUSION: We found that 2, 1, and 3 out of 10 students presented IAD, depressive symptomatology, and anxiety, respectively. We did not find an association between IAD and depressive symptomatology, but we did find an association with anxiety. Among the factors associated with the development of depressive symptomatology were the male sex, the presence of eating disorders, subclinical insomnia, using devices for more than 2 h, and using the Internet for academic activities. About anxiety, the associated factors are the female sex, the presence of eating disorders, subclinical insomnia, and the use of the Internet as social interaction. We recommend implementing counseling programs in view of the imminent introduction of the Internet as a pillar in education.

Depression and anxiety in peruvian military personnel during the pandemic context: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: During the COVID-19 pandemic, increased workload and stress could have increased mental health problems (anxiety and depression) in military personnel. However, the number of studies in military members is scarce, especially in regard to mental health. The objective of this study was determine the prevalence and factors associated with depression and anxiety in Peruvian military personnel. METHODS: We undertook an analytical cross-sectional study. The survey was distributed face to face between November 02 and 09, 2021, during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic among the military personnel. We used some instruments to measure depression (Patient Health Questionnaire, PHQ-9), anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder, GAD-7), insomnia (Insomnia Severity Index, ISI), food insecurity (Household Food Insecurity Access Scale, HFIAS), physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaires, IPAQ-S), resilience (abbreviated CD-RISC), and fear of COVID-19 scale. The exclusion criteria included those who did not completely fill out the evaluation instruments. RESULTS: We analyzed the data of 615 military personnel that participated in the survey. Of them, 93.7% were male and the median age was 22 years old. There was a prevalence of 29.9% and 22.0% in regard to depression and anxiety symptoms, respectively. In addition, it was found that being married (PR: 0.63; 95% IC: 0.42-0.94), having a relative with mental health problems (PR: 2.16), having experienced food insecurity (PR: 1.48), insomnia (PR: 2.71), fear of COVID-19 (PR: 1.48), and a high level of resilience (PR: 0.65) were factors associated with depression. In regard to anxiety, the factors associated were working for more than 18 months since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic (PR: 0.52), a high level of resilience (PR: 0.50; 95% IC: 0.33-0.77), insomnia (PR: 3.32), fear of COVID-19 (PR: 2.43). CONCLUSION: We found a prevalence of symptoms of depression and anxiety of 29.9% and 22.0%, respectively. In regard to the factors that attenuate depression, we can mention being married and having resilience; and among the aggravating factors, having a relative with mental health problems, food insecurity, insomnia, and fear of COVID-19. Finally, anxiety increased through working time, insomnia, and fear of COVID-19.

The Fruit Intake-Adiposity Paradox: Findings from a Peruvian Cross-Sectional Study.

Due to the increase in obesity worldwide, international organizations have promoted the adoption of a healthy lifestyle, as part of which fruit consumption stands out. However, there are controversies regarding the role of fruit consumption in mitigating this disease. The objective of the present study was to analyze the association between fruit intake and body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) in a representative sample of Peruvians. This is an analytical cross-sectional study. Secondary data analysis was conducted using information from the Demographic and Health Survey of Peru (2019-2021). The outcome variables were BMI and WC. The exploratory variable was fruit intake, which was expressed in three different presentations: portion, salad, and juice. A generalized linear model of the Gaussian family and identity link function were performed to obtain the crude and adjusted beta coefficients. A total of 98,741 subjects were included in the study. Females comprised 54.4% of the sample. In the multivariate analysis, for each serving of fruit intake, the BMI decreased by 0.15 kg/m2 (ß = -0.15; 95% CI -0.24 to -0.07), while the WC was reduced by 0.40 cm (ß = -0.40; 95% CI -0.52 to -0.27). A negative association between fruit salad intake and WC was found (ß = -0.28; 95% CI -0.56 to -0.01). No statistically significant association between fruit salad intake and BMI was found. In the case of fruit juice, for each glass of juice consumed, the BMI increased by 0.27 kg/m2 (ß = 0.27; 95% CI 0.14 to 0.40), while the WC increased by 0.40 cm (ß = 0.40; 95% CI 0.20 to 0.60). Fruit intake per serving is negatively related to general body adiposity and central fat distribution, while fruit salad intake is negatively related to central distribution adiposity. However, the consumption of fruit in the form of juices is positively associated with a significant increase in BMI and WC.

Virus Identification for Monkeypox in Human Seminal Fluid Samples: A Systematic Review.

Public health officials around the world are extremely concerned about the global outbreak of monkeypox (MPX), which has been claimed to have originated in Africa. As a result, studies into the origins and reasons behind the outbreak's rapid spread have been sped up. The goal of the current investigation is to determine whether the monkeypox virus (MPXV) is present in seminal fluid samples from MPX cases that have been verified. Up until 6 January 2023, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and ScienceDirect databases were used to conduct a thorough evaluation of the literature. The search technique returned a total of 308 items. Fourteen studies reporting the presence of MPXV in the seminal fluid of MPX-confirmed cases were included after the duplicates (n = 158) and searches by title, abstract, and full text were eliminated. In 84 out of the 643 confirmed MPX cases (13.06% or n = 643), MPXV was discovered in seminal fluid. Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to identify MPXV, and samples taken from skin lesions (96.27%), pharynx or oropharynx (30.48%), and blood all had higher positivity rates than other samples (12.44%). Additionally, 99.85% of respondents were male with a mean age of 36, 98.45% engaged in MSM (men who have sex with men) sexual conduct, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) accounted for 56.9% of all STD cases. This study offers proof that MPXV can be found in the seminal fluid of MPX sufferers. Our data imply that MPXV transmission is a possibility in these samples and that MSM are more vulnerable to it. The creation of hygienic standards is essential for the early identification of MPX cases.