Influence of mode of delivery on satisfaction with hospitalization for childbirth in the study Birth in Brazil.

Controversial results have been reported on the association between mode of delivery and patient satisfaction. This study investigates which mode of delivery leads to greater satisfaction with hospital admission for childbirth. A cohort study was conducted with data from the Birth in Brazil study, which began in 2011. A total of 23,046 postpartum women were included from a random sample of hospitals, selected by conglomerates with a three level stratification. At the first follow-up, 15,582 women were re-interviewed. Mode of delivery, dichotomized into vaginal or cesarean section, and confounders were collected before hospital discharge. The outcome maternal satisfaction, investigated as a 10-item unidimensional construct, was measured by the Hospital Birth Satisfaction Scale up to six months after discharge. We used a directed acyclic graph to define minimal adjustment variables for confounding. The effect of mode of delivery on satisfaction was estimated using a structural equation model with weighting by the inverse of the probability of selection, considering the complex sampling design. The weight was estimated considering the different sample selection probabilities, the losses to follow-up, and the propensity score, which was estimated in a logistic regression model. The analysis revealed no significant difference in satisfaction with hospitalization for childbirth between respondents who had vaginal delivery and cesarean section in the adjusted analysis (standardized coefficient = 0.089; p-value = 0.056). Therefore, women who had vaginal delivery and cesarean section were equally satisfied with their hospitalization for childbirth.

Influence of mode of delivery on satisfaction with hospitalization for childbirth in the study Birth in Brazil / Influência do tipo de parto na satisfação com a internação para o parto na pesquisa Nascer no Brasil / Influencia del tipo de parto en la satisfacción con la hospitalización para el parto en la encuesta Nacer en Brasil

Controversial results have been reported on the association between mode of delivery and patient satisfaction. This study investigates which mode of delivery leads to greater satisfaction with hospital admission for childbirth. A cohort study was conducted with data from the Birth in Brazil study, which began in 2011. A total of 23,046 postpartum women were included from a random sample of hospitals, selected by conglomerates with a three level stratification. At the first follow-up, 15,582 women were re-interviewed. Mode of delivery, dichotomized into vaginal or cesarean section, and confounders were collected before hospital discharge. The outcome maternal satisfaction, investigated as a 10-item unidimensional construct, was measured by the Hospital Birth Satisfaction Scale up to six months after discharge. We used a directed acyclic graph to define minimal adjustment variables for confounding. The effect of mode of delivery on satisfaction was estimated using a structural equation model with weighting by the inverse of the probability of selection, considering the complex sampling design. The weight was estimated considering the different sample selection probabilities, the losses to follow-up, and the propensity score, which was estimated in a logistic regression model. The analysis revealed no significant difference in satisfaction with hospitalization for childbirth between respondents who had vaginal delivery and cesarean section in the adjusted analysis (standardized coefficient = 0.089; p-value = 0.056). Therefore, women who had vaginal delivery and cesarean section were equally satisfied with their hospitalization for childbirth.

Estudos mostram resultados controversos sobre a associação entre o tipo de parto e a satisfação da paciente. Este estudo investiga qual tipo de parto traz maior satisfação com a internação hospitalar para o parto. Foi realizado um estudo de coorte com dados da pesquisa Nascer no Brasil, iniciada em 2011. Foram incluídas 23.046 puérperas de uma amostra aleatória de hospitais, por conglomerados, com estratificação em três níveis. No primeiro seguimento, 15.582 mulheres foram reentrevistadas. Coletou-se antes da alta hospitalar dados sobre o tipo de parto, dicotomizado em vaginal e cesáreo, e fatores de confusão. O desfecho satisfação materna, avaliado como um construto unidimensional de 10 itens, foi mensurado pela Escala de Satisfação com a Hospitalização para o Parto até seis meses após a alta. As variáveis mínimas de ajuste para confusão foram definidas em um gráfico acíclico direcionado. O efeito do tipo de parto sobre a satisfação foi estimado em um modelo de equação estrutural com ponderação pelo inverso da probabilidade de seleção, considerando o desenho amostral complexo. A ponderação foi estimada considerando as diferentes probabilidades de seleção da amostra, as perdas de seguimento e o escore de propensão. O escore de propensão foi estimado em um modelo de regressão logística. Não houve diferenças na satisfação com a internação para o parto entre as entrevistadas que tiveram partos vaginais e cesáreos na análise ajustada (coeficiente padronizado = 0,089; p = 0,056). As mulheres que tiveram partos vaginais e cesáreos ficaram igualmente satisfeitas com a hospitalização para o parto.

Los estudios muestran resultados controvertidos en cuanto a la asociación entre el tipo de parto y la satisfacción de la paciente. Este estudio investiga qué tipo de parto presenta mayor satisfacción con la hospitalización para el parto. Se realizó un estudio de cohorte con los datos de la encuesta Nacer en Brasil, que había comenzado en 2011. Se incluyeron a 23.046 puérperas de una muestra aleatoria de hospitales, por conglomerados, con estratificación en tres niveles. En el primer seguimiento se volvió a entrevistar a 15.582 mujeres. Los datos sobre el tipo de parto, ya sea por cesárea o vaginal, y los factores de confusión se recogieron antes del alta hospitalaria. El resultado de satisfacción materna, evaluado como un constructo unidimensional de diez ítems, se midió con la Escala de Satisfacción con la Hospitalización por Parto hasta seis meses después del alta. Las variables de ajuste mínimo de confusión se definieron en un gráfico acíclico dirigido. El efecto del tipo de parto sobre la satisfacción se estimó en un modelo de ecuaciones estructurales ponderadas por la inversa de la probabilidad de selección, considerando el diseño de muestreo complejo. La ponderación se estimó con diferentes probabilidades de selección de la muestra, pérdidas de seguimiento y puntuación de propensión. La puntuación de propensión se estimó mediante el modelo de regresión logística. No hubo diferencias en la satisfacción con la hospitalización por parto entre las encuestadas que tuvieron partos vaginales o por cesárea en el análisis ajustado (coeficiente estandarizado = 0,089; p = 0,056). Tanto las mujeres que tuvieron partos vaginales como las que tuvieron por cesárea estaban igualmente satisfechas con su hospitalización por parto.

Association of insufficient practice of physical activity with demographic, anthropometric and biochemical factors in hypertensive patients / Fatores associados à atividade física em pacientes com hipertensão tratados e monitorados pelo Hiperdia

Resumo Introdução Considerando-se a magnitude da hipertensão arterial sistêmica e suas complicações, assim como a importância da atividade física regular na sua prevenção e/ou tratamento, é necessário identificar os fatores associados à prática de atividade física insuficiente. Objetivo Analisar os fatores associados à atividade física insuficiente em hipertensos atendidos na atenção primária à saúde. Método Estudo transversal realizado com amostra aleatória de 305 hipertensos em três unidades de saúde de São Luís (MA). Foi realizada análise bivariada, com estimativas de razões de prevalência, intervalos de confiança e análise multivariada por regressão de Poisson. Resultados A atividade física insuficiente foi observada em 38,7% da amostra. Atividade física insuficiente foi associada a menos de 8 anos de educação formal (razão de prevalência - RP = 1,58; intervalo de confiança de 95% - IC = 1,04-2,39), colesterol total ≥200 mg/dL (RP = 0,78; IC 95% = 0,58 -1,04), lipoproteína de baixa densidade colesterol-LDLc ≥100 mg/dL (RP = 0,79; IC 95% = 0,53-0,95) e lipoproteína de alta densidade colesterol-HDLc <40 mg / dL entre homens e <50 mg/dL entre mulheres (RP = 1,21; IC 95% = 0,90-1,64). A escolaridade <8 anos (RP = 1,50; IC 95% = 0,99-2,29) e LDLc ≥100 mg/dL (RP = 0,72; IC 95% = 0,54-0,96) também estiveram associados na regressão multivariada. Conclusão Observou-se alta prevalência de atividade física insuficiente e sua associação com baixa escolaridade e LDLc alterado em hipertensos.

Abstract Background Considering the magnitude of systemic hypertension (SH) and its complications, as well as the importance of regular physical activity in its prevention and/or treatment, there is a necessity to identify the factors associated with insufficient practice of physical activity. Objective To analyze factors associated with insufficient physical activity in hypertensive patients treated at Primary Health Care (PHC). Method This cross-sectional study was performed with a random sample of 305 hypertensive patients in three PHC units in São Luis, state of Maranhão, Brazil. A bivariate analysis was performed with estimates of prevalence ratios and confidence intervals, and multivariate analysis using Poisson regression. Results Insufficient physical activity was observed in 38.7% of the sample. Insufficient physical activity was associated with having <8 years of formal education (prevalence ratio-PR=1.58; 95% confidence interval-CI=1.04-2.39), total cholesterol ≥200 mg/dL (PR=0.78; 95% CI=0.58-1.04), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol-LDL ≥100 mg/dL (PR=0.79; 95% CI=0.53-0.95), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol-HDL <40 mg/dL among men and <50 mg/dL among women (PR=1.21; 95% CI=0.90-1.64). Length of education <8 years (PR=1.50; 95% CI=0.99-2.29) and LDL ≥100 mg/dL (PR=0.72;95% CI=0.54-0.96) were also associated in the multivariate regression. Conclusion High prevalence of insufficient physical activity and its association with low education level and altered LDL serum levels were observed in hypertensive patients.

Psychometric properties of the hospital birth satisfaction scale: Birth in Brazil survey.

The objective of this study was to analyze the psychometric properties of the hospital birth satisfaction scale with data from the first follow-up interview of the Birth in Brazil survey. The 11 questions of the scale were asked by telephone up to six months after discharge in a stratified random sample of 16,109 women residing in all five regions of the country. The sample was randomly divided into two halves. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was applied to the first half in order to identify the scale's factorial structure. The scree plot suggested the scale to be one-dimensional. The EFA demonstrated a good fit of the one-dimensional model. Factor loadings were greater than 0.5 for all items, except for the mean time transpired between leaving the home and arriving at the maternity hospital, which was excluded from the next analysis. The confirmatory factor analysis applied to the sample's second half with the remaining ten items had a good fit and the factor loadings were > 0.50 with p-values < 0.001. The associations between birth satisfaction and the external variables, the mother's education level (standardized coefficient = 0.073; p = 0.035), private insurance (SC = 0.183; p < 0.001) and having a companion at some point during the hospitalization for labor (SC = 0.193; p = 0.001) were all as expected. There was evidence of configural and metric invariance according to type of hospital (private or public) and type of delivery (cesarean or vaginal). These results showed that the hospital birth satisfaction scale in Brazil is a one-dimensional instrument composed of ten items.

Psychometric properties of the hospital birth satisfaction scale: Birth in Brazil survey / Propriedades psicométricas da escala de satisfação com a assistência hospitalar no parto: estudo Nascer no Brasil / Propiedades psicométricas de la escala de satisfacción sobre cuidados hospitalarios durante el parto: encuesta Nacer en Brasil

The objective of this study was to analyze the psychometric properties of the hospital birth satisfaction scale with data from the first follow-up interview of the Birth in Brazil survey. The 11 questions of the scale were asked by telephone up to six months after discharge in a stratified random sample of 16,109 women residing in all five regions of the country. The sample was randomly divided into two halves. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was applied to the first half in order to identify the scale's factorial structure. The scree plot suggested the scale to be one-dimensional. The EFA demonstrated a good fit of the one-dimensional model. Factor loadings were greater than 0.5 for all items, except for the mean time transpired between leaving the home and arriving at the maternity hospital, which was excluded from the next analysis. The confirmatory factor analysis applied to the sample's second half with the remaining ten items had a good fit and the factor loadings were > 0.50 with p-values < 0.001. The associations between birth satisfaction and the external variables, the mother's education level (standardized coefficient = 0.073; p = 0.035), private insurance (SC = 0.183; p < 0.001) and having a companion at some point during the hospitalization for labor (SC = 0.193; p = 0.001) were all as expected. There was evidence of configural and metric invariance according to type of hospital (private or public) and type of delivery (cesarean or vaginal). These results showed that the hospital birth satisfaction scale in Brazil is a one-dimensional instrument composed of ten items.

O estudo teve como objetivo analisar as propriedades psicométricas da escala de satisfação com a assistência hospitalar no parto, a partir dos dados da primeira entrevista de seguimento do estudo Nascer no Brasil. As 11 perguntas da escala foram endereçadas via telefone dentro de seis meses depois da alta hospitalar em uma amostra aleatória estratificada de 16.109 mulheres residentes nas cinco macrorregiões brasileiras. A amostra foi dividida aleatoriamente em duas metades. Na primeira metade, foi realizada análise fatorial exploratória (AFE) para identificar a estrutura fatorial da escala. O gráfico de declividade sugeriu que a escala era unidimensional. A AFE demonstrou bom ajuste do modelo unidimensional. As cargas fatoriais foram maiores de 0,50 para todos os itens, exceto para o tempo médio de viagem da residência da parturiente até a maternidade, que foi excluído da análise subsequente. A análise fatorial confirmatória realizada com os dez itens remanescentes na segunda metade da amostra mostrou bom ajuste, com cargas fatoriais > 0,50 e valores de p < 0,001. As associações entre a satisfação com a assistência hospitalar no parto e as variáveis externas de escolaridade materna (coeficiente padronizado = 0,073; p = 0,035), plano de saúde privado (CP = 0,183; p < 0,001) e ter acompanhante em algum momento durante a internação para o parto (CP = 0,193; p = 0,001) foram na direção esperada. Houve evidências de invariância configural e métrica de acordo com o tipo de hospital (privado vs. público) e tipo de parto (cesáreo vs. vaginal). Os resultados mostram que a escala de satisfação com a assistência hospitalar no parto no Brasil é um instrumento unidimensional constituído de dez itens.

El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar las propiedades psicométricas de la escala de satisfacción sobre cuidados hospitalarios durante el parto, con datos procedentes de la primera entrevista de seguimiento, pertenecientes a la encuesta Nacer en Brasil. Se hicieron 11 preguntas de esta escala por teléfono hasta seis meses después del parto, mediante un muestreo aleatorio estratificado a 16.109 mujeres, residentes en las cinco regiones del país. Se dividió el mismo aleatoriamente en dos mitades. En la primera, se realizó un análisis factorial exploratorio (AFE) para identificar la estructura factorial de la escala. El gráfico de sedimentación indicó que la escala era unidimensional. El AFE demostró un buen ajuste al modelo unidimensional. Las cargas factoriales fueron superiores al 0,5 en todos los ítems, excepto en el tiempo empleado en ir de casa al hospital materno-infantil, que se excluyó del siguiente análisis. En la segunda mitad de la muestra se realizó un análisis factorial confirmatorio con los diez ítems restantes que tuvo un buen ajuste y cuyas cargas factoriales fueron > 0,50 con p-valor < 0,001. Las asociaciones entre la satisfacción con los cuidados hospitalarios recibidos para el parto, las variables externas, escolaridad maternal (coeficiente estandarizado = 0,073; p = 0,035), seguro privado (CE = 0,183; p < 0,001) y contar con pareja en algún momento durante la hospitalización para el parto (CE = 0,193; p = 0,001), estuvieron en línea con lo esperado. Hubo evidencia de invarianza métrica y de configuración, según el tipo de hospital (privado o público), y tipo de parto (cesárea o vaginal). Estos resultados mostraron que la escala de satisfacción sobre cuidados hospitalarios durante el parto en Brasil es un instrumento unidimensional compuesto de diez ítems.

Influencia do uso de chupetas e mamadeiras na prática do aleitamento materno / Influence of the use of artificial nipples and baby bottles in breastfeeding

Objetivo: Verificar, na mais recente literatura, o efeito dos bicos artificiais, como mamadeiras e chupetas, sobre a prática do aleitamento materno. Métodos: Foi realizada uma revisão da literatura nas bases de dados LILACS, SciELO e PubMed, considerando estudos originais publicados entre os anos de 2010 e 2015, em português e inglês, utilizando-se os descritores "chupetas", "amamentação", "mamadeiras", "desmame" e "alimentação artificial", combinados ou isolados, com seus respectivos correspondentes na língua inglesa. Resultados: foram incluídos 25 artigos conforme os critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Estudos apontaram uma relação entre o desmame e o uso de chupetas, e o desmame e uso de chupetas e outros bicos artificiais. Além disso, os estudos evidenciaram que a redução no uso de chupeta gera um aumento na duração do aleitamento. Outras variáveis comuns relacionadas ao desmame relatadas na literatura foram: ausência materna, trabalhar fora ou falta de proteção legal, baixa escolaridade materna, idade materna e problemas relacionados às mamas e nascimento em unidade não "Hospital Amigo da Criança". Conclusões: O uso de bicos artificiais está sendo relacionado ao desmame precoce ou à diminuição da duração do aleitamento materno. Necessita-se ainda que outros estudos sejam realizados a fim de compreender melhor como os bicos artificiais agem sobre as habilidades orais da criança. (AU)

Objective: To verify, in the most recent literature, the effect of artificial nipples, such as baby bottles and pacifiers, on the practice of breastfeeding. Methods: A review of the literature in the LILACS, SciELO and PubMed databases was carried out, considering original studies published between the years 2010 and 2015, in Portuguese and English, using the descriptors "pacifiers", "breastfeeding", "Weaning", and "artificial feeding", combined or isolated. Results: 25 articles were included according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Studies have pointed out a relationship between weaning and the use of pacifiers, and the weaning and use of pacifiers and other artificial nipples. In addition, studies have shown that reduction in pacifier use leads to an increase in the duration of breastfeeding. Other common variables related to weaning reported in the literature were maternal absence, working out or lack of legal protection, low maternal schooling, maternal age and problems related to breasts and birth in a non-baby friendly hospital. Conclusions: The use of artificial nipples is being related to early weaning or shortening the duration of breastfeeding. Further studies are needed to better understand how artificial nipples act on a child's oral skills. (AU)

Consumo de frutas, verduras e legumes por gestantes adolescentes / Consumption of fruits, green vegetables and legumes by pregnant adolescents / Consumo de frutas, verduras y legumbres de adolescentes embarazadas

Objetivo: Determinar o estado nutricional e os fatores associados ao consumo alimentar de frutas, verduras e legumes por gestantes adolescentes atendidas em um serviço público de referência para assistência pré-natal. Métodos: Estudo transversal e analítico, com 73 gestantes adolescentes de 10 a 19 anos, atendidas no Núcleo de Assistência ao Adolescente (NASA) do Hospital Materno Infantil, em São Luís, Maranhão. Utilizou-se o Questionário de Frequência de Consumo Alimentar (QFCA), medidas antropométricas (peso, altura, índice de massa corporal - IMC - pré-gravídico e gravídico) e questionário socioeconômico. As variáveis dependentes foram o consumo de frutas, verduras e legumes, e as independentes foram escolaridade, estado civil, raça, renda, situação demográfica, dados gestacionais e antropométricos. Resultados: Observou-se que 39,7% apresentaram IMC pré-gestacional de desnutrição, 50,7% de eutrofia, e menos de 10% sobrepeso ou obesidade. Para o IMC gestacional, os valores se alteraram, com 27,4% das gestantes desnutridas, 57,5% eutróficas e 15,1% com sobrepeso. Observou-se que os maiores percentuais de adequação para o consumo de frutas, verduras e legumes foram em adolescentes casadas ou em união estável (65,4%), que não trabalhavam (92,3%) e com renda familiar menor que 1 salário mínimo (84,62%). Entretanto, a única associação positiva encontrada com o consumo de frutas, verduras e legumes foi o início do pré-natal. Conclusão: A maior parte das gestantes avaliadas apresentou-se eutrófica, apesar de cerca de um quarto apresentar baixo peso durante a gestação. Além disso, elas não consumiam uma dieta balanceada, com uma ingestão abaixo do recomendado de FVL. Entre os fatores relacionados a um melhor consumo de FVL destaca-se o início do acompanhamento pré-natal no primeiro trimestre.

Objective: To determine the nutritional status and the factors associated with dietary intake of fruits, green vegetables and legumes by pregnant adolescents attending a public service of reference for prenatal care. Methods: Analytical cross-sectional study, with 73 pregnant adolescents aged between 10 and 19 years, attended to at the Service Center for Adolescents (NASA) of the Mother and Child Hospital, in São Luís, Maranhão. The study used the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), anthropometric measurements (weight, height, pregravid and gestational body mass index), and a socioeconomic questionnaire. The dependent variable was the consumption of fruits, green vegetables and legumes, and the independent variables were level of education, civil status, race, income, demographic status, pregnancy and anthropometric data. Results: It was observed that 39.7% had pregravid BMI of malnutrition, 50.7% were eutrophic, and less than 10% were overweight or obese. For the gestational BMI, the values changed, with 27.4% of undernourished pregnant women, 57.5% eutrophic and 15.1% overweight. The highest percentages of adequacy for consumption of fruits, green vegetables and legumes were observed in adolescents who were married or in a stable union (65.4%), did not work (92.3%), and had family income below one minimum wage (84.62%). However, the only positive association found with the consumption of fruits, green vegetables and legumes was the beginning of prenatal care. Conclusion: Themajor part of the evaluated pregnant adolescents was eutrophic, although about one fourth presented low weight during pregnancy. Moreover, they did not consume a balanced diet, with an intake of fruits, green vegetables and legumes below the recommended. Among the factors related to better consumption of these foods, the beginning of prenatal follow-up in the first trimester stands out.

Objetivo: Determinar el estado nutricional y los factores asociados al consumo alimentario de frutas, verduras y legumbres por adolescentes embarazadas asistidas en un servicio público de referencia para asistencia prenatal. Métodos: Estudio transversal y analítico con 73 embarazadas adolescentes entre 10 y 19 años asistidas en el Núcleo de Asistencia al Adolescente (NASA) del Hospital Materno Infantil de São Luís, Maranhão. Se utilizó el Cuestionario de Frecuencia de Consumo Alimentario (QFCA), las medidas antropométricas (peso, altura, índice de masa corporal - IMC - pre-gravidico y gravidico) y cuestionario socioeconómico. Las variables dependientes fueron el consumo de frutas, verduras y legumbres y las independientes fueron la escolaridad, el estado civil, la raza, la renta, la situación demográfica, los datos de la gestación y antropométricos. Resultados: Se observó que el 39,7% presentaron IMC pre-gestacional de desnutrición, el 50,7% de eutrofia y menos del 10% de sobrepeso u obesidad. Los valores se alteraron para el IMC gestacional con el 27,4% de las embarazadas desnutridas, el 57,5% de eutróficas y el 15,1% de sobrepeso. Se observó que los mayores porcentuales de adecuación para el consumo de frutas, verduras y legumbres fueron en adolescentes casadas o con pareja de hecho (65,4%), que no trabajaban (92,3%) y tenían renta familiar menor que 1 sueldo mínimo (84,62%). Sin embargo, la única asociación positiva encontrada con el consumo de frutas, verduras y legumbres fue el inicio del prenatal. Conclusión: La gran mayoría de las embarazadas evaluadas estaba eutrófica aunque el alrededor de un cuarto de ellas tuvo bajo peso durante el embarazo. Además, ellas no tenían una dieta balanceada con una ingestión abajo del recomendado de FVL. De entre los factores relacionados al mejor consumo de FVL se destaca el inicio del seguimiento del prenatal en el primer trimestre.

Fatores de Risco Cardiovascular e sua Relação com o Nível de Escolaridade numa População Universitária / Cardiovascular Risk Factors and their Relationship with Educational Level in a University Population

Fundamentos: O menor grau de escolaridade na população parece estar associado com a maior prevalência dos fatoresde risco cardiovascular (FRCV). Contudo, poucos estudos avaliaram esse fato através de análise clínica e laboratorial em centros universitários. Objetivo: Avaliar a prevalência dos FRCV em servidores de universidade pública. Métodos: Estudo transversal, analítico, randomizado, com 319 participantes de uma coorte de servidores universitários. Analisou-se a prevalência dos FRCV através da medição dos níveis glicêmicos e pressóricos, perfil lipídico, índices antropométricos e foram realizadas análises comparativas de subgrupos de diferentes níveis de escolaridade. Realizou-se análise de regressão logística multivariada para avaliar a associação independente entre nível de escolaridade e presença dos FRCV. Resultados: Média de idade 46,0±10,0 anos, 52,5% mulheres, 56,0% com nível superior de escolaridade, 85,6% pertencentes às classes socioeconômicas B e C. Prevalência dos FRCV: diabetes mellitus (DM) 9,4%; hipertensão arterial sistêmica(HAS) 36,7%; dislipidemia 50,5%; tabagismo 21,9%; sobrepeso 59,6%; obesidade 13,2%; sedentarismo 27,9%. O grupo de menor nível de escolaridade se associou de forma independente com maior prevalência de DM e sedentarismo, quando comparado ao grupo dos servidores com nível superior (docentes e não docentes). DM=odds ratio 2,4(IC95% 1,05-5,5) e p=0,036; sedentarismo=odds ratio 2,2 (IC95% 1,3-3,7) e p=0,003. Os subgrupos não apresentaramdiferenças quanto às demais variáveis.

Background: The lower level of education in the population appears to be associated with a higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors(CVRF). However, few studies have assessed this fact by means of clinical and laboratory analysis in universities. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors in public servants at a public university.Methods: Cross-sectional, analytical and randomized study, with 319 participants of a cohort composed of university public servants.CVRF prevalence was assessed by measuring blood glucose and blood pressure levels, lipid profile and anthropometric indices, and comparative analyses were made of subgroups with different education levels. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to assess the independentassociation between education level and presence of CVRF.Results: Mean age 46.0±10.0 years old, 52.5% women, 56.0% with higher education level, 85.6% belonging to B and C socioeconomic classes. Prevalence of CVRF: diabetes mellitus (DM) - 9.4%; systemic hypertension (SH) - 36.7%; dyslipidemia - 50.5%; smoking - 21.9%;overweight - 59.6%; obesity - 13.2%; sedentary lifestyle - 27.9%. The group with the lowest level of education had an independent association,with higher prevalence of DM and sedentary lifestyle, as compared to the group of public servants with higher level of education (teachersand non-teachers). DM=odds ratio 2.4 (95% CI 1.05 to 5.5) and p=0.036; sedentary lifestyle=odds ratio 2.2 (95% CI 1.3 to 3.7) andp=0.003. The subgroups showed no differences regarding the other variables. Conclusion: In this study, individuals with higher levels of education showed lower prevalence of diabetes and sedentary lifestyle.

Trends in mortality and hospital admissions of sickle cell disease patients before and after the newborn screening program in Maranhão, Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of the implementation of neonatal screening on hospitalization and death rates due to sickle cell disease in patients from the state of Maranhão, Brazil. METHODS: A descriptive study was performed of all inpatients and deaths of patients with a diagnosis of sickle cell disease in Maranhão between 1999 and 2012. Data were collected from the Hospital Information System of the Brazilian National Health Service (SUS) and the Death Information System of the Ministry of Health. The implementation of newborn screening tests in Maranhão took place in 2005, and so the periods 1999-2005 (pre) and 2006-2012 (post) were analyzed for trend analysis using a multiple linear regression model. Fisher's exact test was used for the analysis of categorical variables and the Kruskal-Wallis test for continuous variables. RESULTS: The rate of hospitalization increased from 0.315 (pre) to 1.832 (post), indicating 5.82 times more admissions (p-value=0.04). The mortality rate increased from 0.115 to 0.216, that is 1.88 times higher, but this was not statistically significant (p-value=0.586). The median age at admission dropped from 11.4 years to 8.7 years (p-value=0.0002), whereas the median age at death increased from 10 years to 14 years (p-value=0.665). CONCLUSION: The increases in the rates of hospitalization and death after the implementation of neonatal screening suggests that previously there was an underdiagnosis of sickle cell disease and that screening, along with other factors, increased "visibility" in the state of Maranhão.

Trends in mortality and hospital admissions of sickle cell disease patients before and after the newborn screening program in Maranhão, Brazil

Objective: To assess the impact of the implementation of neonatal screening on hospitalization and death rates due to sickle cell disease in patients from the state of Maranhão, Brazil. Methods: A descriptive study was performed of all inpatients and deaths of patients with a diagnosis of sickle cell disease in Maranhão between 1999 and 2012. Data were collected from the Hospital Information System of the Brazilian National Health Service (SUS) and the Death Information System of the Ministry of Health. The implementation of newborn screening tests in Maranhão took place in 2005, and so the periods 1999-2005 (pre) and 2006-2012 (post) were analyzed for trend analysis using a multiple linear regression model. Fisher's exact test was used for the analysis of categorical variables and the Kruskal-Wallis test for continuous variables. Results: The rate of hospitalization increased from 0.315 (pre) to 1.832 (post), indicating 5.82 times more admissions (p-value = 0.04). The mortality rate increased from 0.115 to 0.216, that is 1.88 times higher, but this was not statistically significant (p-value = 0.586). The median age at admission dropped from 11.4 years to 8.7 years (p-value = 0.0002), whereas the median age at death increased from 10 years to 14 years (p-value = 0.665). Conclusion: The increases in the rates of hospitalization and death after the implementation of neonatal screening suggests that previously there was an underdiagnosis of sickle cell disease and that screening, along with other factors, increased "visibility" in the state of Maranhão. .

Cystatin C, kidney function, and cardiovascular risk factors in primary hypertension.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical usefulness of serum cystatin C (Scys) and cystatin C-based equations for the screening of chronic kidney disease in primary hypertensive patients, and correlate these markers with risk factors for cardiovascular disease. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed in 199 middle-aged adults at a basic health unit. Kidney function assessment included measurements of serum creatinine (Scr) and Scys levels, 24-hour microalbuminuria (MA), as well as glomerular filtration rate (GFR) through Larsson and Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) study equations. Bland- Altman plot analysis was used to calculate the agreement between equations. RESULTS: High levels of Scys were found in 22% of the patients, even with normal values of GFR estimated by MDRD study equation. Systolic blood pressure and MA correlated better with Scys than Scr, but there was no correlation between Scys and diastolic blood pressure. Gender, age > 60 years, MA, and uric acid were significantly associated with high Scys levels. After multivariate analysis, only age > 60 yrs (RR = 6.4; p < 0.001) and male gender (RR = 3.0; p = 0.006) remained associated with high Scys levels. CONCLUSION: Cystatin C can be used as a screening marker both for detecting mild declines of renal function and for preventing the risk of cardiovascular events in hypertensive subjects with presumably normal renal function.

Cystatin C, kidney function, and cardiovascular risk factors in primary hypertension / Cistatina C, função renal e fatores de risco cardiovascular na hipertensão primária

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical usefulness of serum cystatin C (Scys) and cystatin C-based equations for the screening of chronic kidney disease in primary hypertensive patients, and correlate these markers with risk factors for cardiovascular disease. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed in 199 middle-aged adults at a basic health unit. Kidney function assessment included measurements of serum creatinine (Scr) and Scys levels, 24-hour microalbuminuria (MA), as well as glomerular filtration rate (GFR) through Larsson and Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) study equations. Bland- Altman plot analysis was used to calculate the agreement between equations. RESULTS: High levels of Scys were found in 22% of the patients, even with normal values of GFR estimated by MDRD study equation. Systolic blood pressure and MA correlated better with Scys than Scr, but there was no correlation between Scys and diastolic blood pressure. Gender, age > 60 years, MA, and uric acid were significantly associated with high Scys levels. After multivariate analysis, only age > 60 yrs (RR = 6.4; p < 0.001) and male gender (RR = 3.0; p = 0.006) remained associated with high Scys levels. CONCLUSION: Cystatin C can be used as a screening marker both for detecting mild declines of renal function and for preventing the risk of cardiovascular events in hypertensive subjects with presumably normal renal function.

OBJETIVO: Investigar a utilidade clínica da cistatina C sérica (Scys) e da equação baseada na cistatina C na triagem da doença renal crônica em pacientes com hipertensão primária e correlacionar esses marcadores com fatores de risco para doença cardiovascular. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo transversal com 199 adultos de meia-idade em uma unidade básica de saúde. A avaliação da função renal incluiu medidas dos níveis séricos da creatinina (Scr) e Scys, microalbuminúria de 24 h (MA), bem como da taxa de filtração glomerular (TFG) por meio das equações de Larsson e do estudo MDRD. Foi utilizada a análise Bland-Altman plot para calcular a concordância entre as equações. RESULTADOS: Foram encontrados níveis elevados de Scys em 22% dos pacientes, mesmo com valores normais da TFG estimada pela equação do estudo MDRD. A pressão sistólica e a MA correlacionaram-se melhor com a Scys do que com a Scr, mas não houve correlação entre Scys e pressão diastólica. Gênero, idade maior que 60 anos, MA e ácido úrico foram significantemente associados com valores elevados de Scys. Após análise multivariada, apenas idade maior que 60 anos (RR = 6.4; p < 0.001) e gênero masculino (RR = 3.0; p = 0.006) permaneceram associados a níveis aumentados de Scys. CONCLUSÃO: A cistatina C pode ser utilizada como um marcador de triagem tanto para detectar leves declínios da função renal como para prevenir o risco de eventos cardiovasculares em sujeitos hipertensos com função renal presumivelmente normal.

Hypertriglyceridemic waist and cardiometabolic risk in hypertensive women.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between hypertriglyceridemic waist (HW) and cardiometabolic risk factors in women with hypertension. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed in 218 patients monitored by HiperDia (Enrollment and Monitoring Program for Hypertensive and Diabetic Individuals) in two health units in São Luis, MA, Brazil. The dependent variable was HW and the independent variables were sociodemographics, lifestyle, anthropometrics, and health problems. RESULTS: HW was present in 33% of the sample and was predominant in women aged > 60 years (56.4%), non-whites (81.7%), those with eight or fewer years of schooling (57.3%), and those belonging to socioeconomic class C (49%). Excess weight (68.8%) and hypercholesterolemia (68.8%) were observed. HW was associated with: smoking (PR: 2.08; p = 0.017), overweight (PR: 2.46; p = 0.010), obesity (PR: 4.13; p < 0.001), hypercholesterolemia (PR: 1.87; p = 0.015), high levels of high-density lipoproteins (HDL) cholesterol (PR: 3.41; p < 0.001), and fasting glycemia > 100 mg/dL or being diabetic (PR: 1.86; p = 0.006). After adjustment, total cholesterol (PR = 1.78; p = 0.012), HDL-cholesterol (PR: 3.03; p < 0.001), body mass index (BMI) > 25 to < 30 kg/m² (PR = 2.60; p = 0.005), and BMI > 30 kg/m² (PR = 3.61; p < 0.001) remained associated. CONCLUSION: A high prevalence of HW and its association with altered lipid profile and excess body weight was observed. HW showed to be an important diagnostic tool for the monitoring of hypertensive women with metabolic risk, which is low cost, easily accessible, and useful in clinical practice, especially in primary health care in the Brazilian Unified Health System (Sistema Único de Saúde - SUS).

Cintura hipertrigliceridêmica e risco cardiometabólico em mulheres hipertensas / Hypertriglyceridemic waist and cardiometabolic risk in hypertensive women

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a associação entre cintura hipertrigliceridêmica (CH) e fatores de risco cardiometabólicos em mulheres portadoras de hipertensão arterial. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo transversal em 218 pacientes acompanhadas pelo Programa do Sistema de Cadastramento e Acompanhamento de Hipertensos e Diabéticos (HiperDia), em duas unidades de saúde de São Luís, MA, Brasil. A variável dependente foi CH e as variáveis independentes foram sociodemográficas, estilo de vida, antropométricas e agravos à saúde. RESULTADOS: A CH esteve presente em 33% da amostra e foi predominante na idade > 60 anos (56,4%), não brancas (81,7%), com oito anos ou menos de estudo (57,3%) e pertencentes à classe C (49%). Observaram-se excesso de peso (68,8%) e hipercolesterolemia (68,8%). A CH associou-se a: tabagismo (RP: 2,08; p = 0,017), sobrepeso (RP: 2,46; p = 0,010), obesidade (RP: 4,13; p < 0,001), hipercolesterolemia (RP: 1,87; p = 0,015), HDL (high density lipoproteins) colesterol alto (RP: 3,41; p < 0,001) e glicemia de jejum > 100 mg/dL ou ser diabética (RP: 1,86; p = 0,006). Após ajustamento, permaneceram associados o colesterol total (RP = 1,78; p = 0,012), HDL colesterol (RP: 3,03; p < 0,001), IMC > 25 a < 30 kg/m² (RP = 2,60; p = 0,005) e IMC > 30 kg/m² (RP = 3,61; p < 0,001). CONCLUSÃO: Observou-se elevada prevalência de CH e sua associação com perfil lipídico alterado e excesso de peso corporal. A CH se mostrou um importante instrumento diagnóstico para o acompanhamento de hipertensas com risco metabólico, de fácil obtenção e menor custo, útil na prática clínica, em especial, na atenção básica do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS).

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between hypertriglyceridemic waist (HW) and cardiometabolic risk factors in women with hypertension. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed in 218 patients monitored by HiperDia (Enrollment and Monitoring Program for Hypertensive and Diabetic Individuals) in two health units in São Luis, MA, Brazil. The dependent variable was HW and the independent variables were sociodemographics, lifestyle, anthropometrics, and health problems. RESULTS: HW was present in 33% of the sample and was predominant in women aged > 60 years (56.4%), non-whites (81.7%), those with eight or fewer years of schooling (57.3%), and those belonging to socioeconomic class C (49%). Excess weight (68.8%) and hypercholesterolemia (68.8%) were observed. HW was associated with: smoking (PR: 2.08; p = 0.017), overweight (PR: 2.46; p = 0.010), obesity (PR: 4.13; p < 0.001), hypercholesterolemia (PR: 1.87; p = 0.015), high levels of high-density lipoproteins (HDL) cholesterol (PR: 3.41; p < 0.001), and fasting glycemia > 100 mg/dL or being diabetic (PR: 1.86; p = 0.006). After adjustment, total cholesterol (PR = 1.78; p = 0.012), HDL-cholesterol (PR: 3.03; p < 0.001), body mass index (BMI) > 25 to < 30 kg/m² (PR = 2.60; p = 0.005), and BMI > 30 kg/m² (PR = 3.61; p < 0.001) remained associated. CONCLUSION: A high prevalence of HW and its association with altered lipid profile and excess body weight was observed. HW showed to be an important diagnostic tool for the monitoring of hypertensive women with metabolic risk, which is low cost, easily accessible, and useful in clinical practice, especially in primary health care in the Brazilian Unified Health System (Sistema Único de Saúde - SUS).

[Probabilistic record linkage: recovery of data on infant deaths and stillbirths in Maranhão State, Brazil]. / Relacionamento probabilístico: recuperação de informações de óbitos infantis e natimortos em localidade no Maranhão, Brasil.

This study used probabilistic record linkage to estimate underreporting of stillbirths and infant deaths in Maranhão State, Northeast Brazil, in 2008. Records were linked between the Hospital Information System (SIH) (N = 374,418) and the Mortality Information System (SIM) (N = 26,597), using data extraction, identification, and processing software. Under-recording rates were 9.7% for stillbirths, 12% for neonatal deaths, and 5.3% for post-neonatal deaths. In the larger municipalities, the correction of the infant mortality rate was greater than 19%. The superiority of information on infant deaths in the SIH (as compared to the SIM) was 6.5% in municipalities with < 25 thousand inhabitants, 2% in municipalities with 25-80 thousand inhabitants, and 8.3% in those with > 80 thousand inhabitants. Inconsistencies involved non-completion of items/variables, discordant data on the same event, and in some cases even total absence of death records. The method proved useful for retrieving mortality data for the SIM from the SIH.

Relacionamento probabilístico: recuperação de informações de óbitos infantis e natimortos em localidade no Maranhão, Brasil / Probabilistic record linkage: recovery of data on infant deaths and stillbirths in Maranhão State, Brazil

Neste estudo utilizou-se método do relacionamento probabilístico de registros para estimar o sub-registro das informações sobre natimortos e óbitos infantis no Estado do Maranhão, Nordeste do Brasil, em 2008. Relacionaram-se os registros do Sistema de Informações Hospitalares (SIH) (N = 374.418) e do Sistema de Informações de Mortalidade (SIM) (N = 26.597), com utilização de softwares para extração, identificação e processamento dos dados. Observou-se sub-registro de 9,7 por cento de natimortos, 12,0 por cento de óbitos neonatais e 5,3 por cento de pós-neonatais. Nos municípios maiores a correção do coeficiente de mortalidade infantil foi superior a 19 por cento. A superioridade de informações de óbitos infantis do SIH foi de 6,5 por cento (municípios < 25 mil habitantes), 2,0 por cento (municípios de 25-80 mil habitantes) e 8,3 por cento (municípios > 80 mil habitantes). As inconsistências ocorreram por não preenchimento de variáveis, informações discordantes para um mesmo evento e ausência completa de registro do óbito. O método utilizado mostrou-se útil para recuperação de dados de óbitos para o SIM a partir do SIH.

This study used probabilistic record linkage to estimate underreporting of stillbirths and infant deaths in Maranhão State, Northeast Brazil, in 2008. Records were linked between the Hospital Information System (SIH) (N = 374,418) and the Mortality Information System (SIM) (N = 26,597), using data extraction, identification, and processing software. Under-recording rates were 9.7 percent for stillbirths, 12 percent for neonatal deaths, and 5.3 percent for post-neonatal deaths. In the larger municipalities, the correction of the infant mortality rate was greater than 19 percent. The superiority of information on infant deaths in the SIH (as compared to the SIM) was 6.5 percent in municipalities with < 25 thousand inhabitants, 2 percent in municipalities with 25-80 thousand inhabitants, and 8.3 percent in those with > 80 thousand inhabitants. Inconsistencies involved non-completion of items/variables, discordant data on the same event, and in some cases even total absence of death records. The method proved useful for retrieving mortality data for the SIM from the SIH.

The epidemiologic paradox of low birth weight in Brazil / O paradoxo epidemiológico do baixo peso ao nascer no Brasil / La paradoja epidemiológica del bajo peso al nacer en Brasil

OBJECTIVE: To examine whether the low birth weight (LBW) paradox exists in Brazil. METHODS: LBW and cesarean section rates between 1995 and 2007 were estimated based on data from SINASC (Brazilian Live Births Database). Infant mortality rates (IMRs) were obtained using an indirect method that correct for underreporting. Schooling information was obtained from census data. Trends in LBW rate were assessed using joinpoint regression models. The correlations between LBW rate and other indicators were graphically assessed by lowess regression and tested using Spearman's rank correlation. RESULTS: In Brazil, LBW rate trends were non-linear and non-significant: the rate dropped from 7.9 percent in 1995 to 7.7 percent in 2000, then increased to 8.2 percent in 2003 and remained nearly steady thereafter at 8.2 percent in 2007. However, trends varied among Brazilian regions: there were significant increases in the North from 1999 to 2003 (2.7 percent per year), and in the South (1.0 percent per year) and Central-West regions (0.6 percent per year) from 1995 to 2007. For the entire period studied, higher LBW and lower IMRs were seen in more developed compared to less developed regions. In Brazilian States, in 2005, the higher the IMR rate, the lower the LBW rate (p=0.009); the lower the low schooling rate, the lower the LBW rate (p=0.007); the higher the number of neonatal intensive care beds per 1,000 live births, the higher the LBW rate (p=0.036). CONCLUSIONS: The low birth weight paradox was seen in Brazil. LBW rate is increasing in some Brazilian regions. Regional differences in LBW rate seem to be more associated to availability of perinatal care services than underlying social conditions.

OBJETIVO: Identificar a presença do paradoxo do baixo peso ao nascer (BPN) no Brasil. MÉTODOS: As taxas de BPN e de cesárea, de 1995 a 2007, foram estimadas a partir do Sistema de Informações sobre Nascidos Vivos. As taxas de mortalidade infantil, foram calculadas por métodos indiretos, com correção para sub-registro. A taxa de escolaridade foi obtida de dados censitários. As tendências da taxa de BPN foram avaliadas utilizando-se modelos de regressão joinpoint. As associações entre a taxa de BPN com outros indicadores foram avaliadas por regressão lowess e correlação de Spearman. RESULTADOS: No Brasil, as tendências da taxa de BPN foram não lineares e não significantes: a taxa caiu de 7,9 por cento em 1995 para 7,7 por cento em 2000, aumentando para 8,2 por cento em 2003 e permanecendo estável em 8,2 por cento em 2007. Entretanto, as tendências variaram nas regiões brasileiras: houve aumentos significantes no Norte (2,7 por cento por ano), de 1999 a 2003, e no Sul (1,0 por cento por ano) e Centro-Oeste (0,6 por cento por ano), de 1995 a 2007. As taxas de BPN foram mais altas e as taxas de mortalidade infantil mais baixas nas regiões mais desenvolvidas do que nas menos desenvolvidas. Em 2005, quanto mais elevada a taxa de mortalidade infantil, menor foi a taxa de BPN (p = 0,009); quanto mais alta a taxa de baixa escolaridade, menor foi a taxa de BPN (p = 0,007); quanto maior o número de leitos de terapia intensiva neonatal por 1.000 nascidos vivos, mais elevada foi a taxa de BPN (p = 0,036). CONCLUSÕES: O paradoxo do BPN foi detectado no Brasil. A taxa de BPN está aumentando em algumas regiões brasileiras. Diferenças regionais na taxa de BPN parecem estar mais relacionadas à disponibilidade de assistência perinatal do que às condições sociais.

OBJETIVO: Identificar la presencia de la paradoja de bajo peso al nacer (BPN) en Brasil. MÉTODOS: Las tasas de BPN y de cesárea, de 1995 a 2007, fueron estimadas a partir del Sistema de Informaciones sobre Nacidos Vivos. Las tasas de mortalidad infantil fueron calculadas por métodos indirectos, con corrección para subregistro. La tasa de escolaridad fue obtenida de datos de censos. Las tendencias de la tasa de bajo peso al nacer fueron evaluadas utilizándose modelos de regresión joinpoint. Las asociaciones entre la tasa de bajo peso al nacer con otros indicadores fueron evaluadas por regresión lowess y correlación de Spearman. RESULTADOS: En Brasil, las tendencias en la tasa de BPN fueron no lineares y no significativas: la tasa disminuyó de 7,9 por ciento en 1995 a 7,7 por ciento en 2000, aumentando a 8,2 por ciento en 2003, y permaneciendo estable en 8,2 por ciento en 2007. Mientras, las tendencias variaron en las regiones brasileras: hubo aumentos significativos en el Norte (2,7 por ciento por año), de 1999 a 2003, y en el Sur (1,0 por ciento por año) y Centro-Oeste (0,6 por ciento por año), de 1995 a 2007. Las tasas de BPN fueron más altas y las tasas de mortalidad infantil más bajas en las regiones más desarrolladas en comparación con las menos desarrolladas. En 2005, cuanto más elevada la tasa de mortalidad infantil, menor fue la tasa de BPN (p=0,009); cuanto más alta la tasa de baja escolaridad, menor la tasa de BPN (p=0,007); cuanto mayor el número de lechos de terapia intensiva neonatal por 1000 nacidos vivos, más elevada la tasa de BPN (p=0,036). CONCLUSIONES: La paradoja del BPN fue detectado en Brasil. La tasa de BPN está aumentando en algunas regiones brasileras. Diferencias regionales en la tasa de BPN parecen estar más relacionadas con la disponibilidad de asistencia perinatal que con las condiciones sociales.

The epidemiologic paradox of low birth weight in Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To examine whether the low birth weight (LBW) paradox exists in Brazil. METHODS: LBW and cesarean section rates between 1995 and 2007 were estimated based on data from SINASC (Brazilian Live Births Database). Infant mortality rates (IMRs) were obtained using an indirect method that correct for underreporting. Schooling information was obtained from census data. Trends in LBW rate were assessed using joinpoint regression models. The correlations between LBW rate and other indicators were graphically assessed by lowess regression and tested using Spearman's rank correlation. RESULTS: In Brazil, LBW rate trends were non-linear and non-significant: the rate dropped from 7.9% in 1995 to 7.7% in 2000, then increased to 8.2% in 2003 and remained nearly steady thereafter at 8.2% in 2007. However, trends varied among Brazilian regions: there were significant increases in the North from 1999 to 2003 (2.7% per year), and in the South (1.0% per year) and Central-West regions (0.6% per year) from 1995 to 2007. For the entire period studied, higher LBW and lower IMRs were seen in more developed compared to less developed regions. In Brazilian States, in 2005, the higher the IMR rate, the lower the LBW rate (p=0.009); the lower the low schooling rate, the lower the LBW rate (p=0.007); the higher the number of neonatal intensive care beds per 1,000 live births, the higher the LBW rate (p=0.036). CONCLUSIONS: The low birth weight paradox was seen in Brazil. LBW rate is increasing in some Brazilian regions. Regional differences in LBW rate seem to be more associated to availability of perinatal care services than underlying social conditions.

A equoterapia no tratamento de crianças com paralisia cerebral no Nordeste do Brasil / The hippotherapy in the treatment of children with cerebral palsy in the North East Brazil

A equoterapia vem sendo utilizada como um tratamento desuporte focalizado no comprometimento do controle de troncoapresentado pelas crianças com paralisia cerebral. Este estudo temcomo propósito avaliar mudanças posturais em crianças com paralisiacerebral após participação em programa de equoterapia aolongo de um ano, em 2006 e 2007. Trata-se de um estudo descritivocom amostra composta de 27 crianças entre 2 a 12 anos. Avaliou-sealinhamento e simetria da cabeça, ombros, tronco, coluna vertebral epélvis, antes e após a prática de equoterapia. Os benefícios corporaismensuráveis para cada área corporal foram obtidos pela divisão dosvalores após (pós-teste) pelos valores prévios (pré-teste) à prática deequoterapia. Indicou-se quantas vezes a postura de segmento corporalfoi benefi ciada pelo tratamento. O teste de Wilcoxon foi usadopara a comparação de medianas. Os valores da avaliação posturalantes e depois da equoterapia foram: cabeça - 1,2 (± 1,0) e 2,1 (±1,1); ombros - 1,2 (± 0,9) e 2,2 (± 1,0); tronco -1,0 (± 0,8) e 1,9 (±1,0); coluna vertebral - 0,9 (± 1,0) e 1,7 (± 1,0); e pélvis - 0,8 (± 0,9)e 1,7 (± 0,8). As diferenças das avaliações antes e depois da equoterapiaforam signifi cantes (p < 0,05) para cada segmento corporal.Os menores benefícios posturais foram observados nos segmentoscabeça e pescoço (73%) e ombros e escápula (84%), enquanto queos maiores foram no tronco (93%) e na pélvis (114%). Conclusão:Mudanças posturais signifi cativas foram obtidas, o que pode servirde incentivo para que esta prática seja difundida pelo Sistema Únicode Saúde para o tratamento de crianças com paralisia cerebral...

Th e understanding of the motor limitations to which childrenand adolescents with cerebral palsy are exposed is important for theplanning of intervention investigations and for decisions regardingpublic health programs. Th e objective of the present study was toassess postural changes in children with cerebral palsy after theyparticipated in a hippotherapy program over a period of one year(2006-2007). Th is was a descriptive study of a sample of 27 children2 to 12 years old evaluated for alignment and symmetry of the head,shoulders, trunk, spine, and pelvis before and after the practice ofhippotherapy. Th e measurable body benefi ts for each body areawere determined by dividing the values obtained after hippotherapy(post-test) by the values obtained before therapy (pre-test). Weindicated how many times the posture of a body segment benefi tedfrom treatment. Th e Wilcoxon test was used for comparison of themedians. Th e values of postural assessment before and after hippotherapywere: head - 1.2 (± 1.0) and 2.1 (± 1.1); shoulders - 1.2 (±0.9) and 2.2 (± 1.0); trunk -1.0 (± 0.8) and 1.9 (± 1.0); spine - 0.9(± 1.0) and 1.7 (± 1.0); and pelvis - 0.8 (± 0.9) and 1.7 (± 0.8).Th e diff erences between the evaluations performed before and afterhippotherapy were signifi cant (p < 0.05) for each body segment.Th e lowest postural benefi ts were observed for the head and neck(73%) and shoulder and scapula (84%) segments, and the highestwere observed for the trunk (93%) and pelvis (114%). Conclusion:Signifi cant postural changes were obtained, which may serve toencourage the diff usion of this practice in public programs for thetreatment of children with cerebral palsy...

Foreign body aspiration in children and adolescents: experience of a Brazilian referral center.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical, radiological and endoscopic characteristics of foreign body aspiration among individuals under the age of 15 treated at a referral center in the city of São Luís, Brazil. METHODS: This was a descriptive study using data from the medical charts of patients treated for foreign body aspiration at the Hospital Universitário Materno Infantil between 1995 and 2005. We investigated 72 confirmed cases of foreign body aspiration, evaluating the place of residence, as well as biological, clinical, radiological and endoscopic variables. We used the chi-square test to identify statistically significant differences in frequency among the variables studied. RESULTS: The majority of the patients were from outlying areas (55.6%). The following variables presented the highest frequencies: 0-3 year age bracket (81.9%); male gender (63.9%); evolution > 24 h (66.7%); hypotransparency on chest X-ray (57.7%); foreign body in the right lung (41.2%) or in the larynx (20.5%); organic nature of the foreign body (83.3%); complication in the form of localized inflammation (59.4%); glottal edema as an endoscopic complication (47.6%); and seeds (46.6%), fishbone (28.3%) or plastics (25.5%) as the type of foreign body. There were no deaths. CONCLUSIONS: Preventive care should be a priority for male children under the age of 3 living in outlying areas. Such children should not be given access to substances that can be aspirated, including certain foodstuffs. Simple and easily accessible radiological tests have been underused, which jeopardizes the quality of the initial treatment.