Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) in Adults with Cystic Fibrosis.

Objective: This exploratory study examines the prevalence of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in adults with cystic fibrosis (CF). Design: Childhood exposure to 16 ACEs was measured during an annual review assessment (N = 80). Methods: CF patients (n = 80) attending the All Wales Adult CF Service for a routine annual review assessment completed an adapted version of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) short-form ACE questionnaire alongside measures of psychological well-being. Results: In this sample, 65 (78%) reported at least one type of childhood adversity and 11 (14%) experienced four or more ACEs. Parental divorce or separation and verbal abuse were the most frequently reported ACEs. Illness related trauma in childhood was also prevalent with 52 (64%) reporting having experienced a painful or frightening medical procedure and 23 (28%) feeling forced to have treatment or a procedure. Conclusion: Individuals with CF reported a number of childhood traumas including trauma relating to medical procedures. Those with a history of ACEs may have increased risks of emotional and physical difficulties and may benefit from additional support from the CF psychosocial team.

Optimising the care and quality of life of people with cystic fibrosis: the influence of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator modulators.

Cystic fibrosis is a life-limiting, inherited, multi-organ disease which affects many systems of the body. Until recently, treatments were only able to ameliorate symptoms, but the introduction of precision medications which modulate the underlying defect in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene has changed this. Notably improvements in nutrition and lung function, reduced use of antibiotics and reduced occupation rates for hospital beds have been seen. This article summarises the discussion of a group of healthcare professionals from different specialties and an expert patient, representing their personal views and experience of treating patients who are using CFTR modulators. The discussion was sponsored by an unrestricted grant from Chiesi Limited (Manchester, UK).

Evaluation of a treatment programme for alcohol-related aggression.

BACKGROUND: The development of effective treatments for alcohol-related aggression and violence is important in binge drinking cultures, as in parts of the UK.Aim The aim was to evaluate the progress and experience of 10 participants in Control of Violence for Angry Impulsive Drinkers (COVAID) using a single case methodology. METHOD: Participants completed 10 individual weekly sessions with trained facilitators following the COVAID manual. Change scores on psychometric questionnaires were examined by calculating clinical significance and reliability of change. Self-reports of alcohol consumption and aggression were examined. Follow-up data on convictions were collected. Participants were asked their opinions about COVAID. RESULTS: Scores on the Alcohol-Related Aggression Questionnaire (ARAQ) improved for nine participants; change was both clinically significant and reliable in five cases. Nine participants improved on the Controlled Drinking Self-Efficacy Scale (CDSES), with seven showing clinically significant improvement. Six participants reported a reduction in alcohol consumption from the first to the second half of the programme. At a mean of 29 weeks post-treatment, none of the participants had been reconvicted for a violent offence. Participants reported finding COVAID useful and interesting. CONCLUSION: Overall, our findings support the possibility that COVAID may assist in reducing alcohol-related violence and violent offending.