Disparities in healthcare-seeking behaviors and associated costs between Venezuelan migrants and Colombians residing in Colombia.

BACKGROUND: Colombia, which hosts over 3 million of the Venezuelan diaspora, is lauded for its progressive approach to social integration, including providing migrants access to its universal health coverage system. However, barriers to healthcare persist for both migrant and host populations, with poorly understood disparities in healthcare-seeking behaviors and associated costs. This is the first study to link healthcare-seeking behaviors with costs for Venezuelan migrants in Colombia, encompassing costs of missing work or usual activities due to healthcare events. METHODS: We use self-reported survey data from Venezuelan migrants and Colombians living in Colombia (September-November 2020) to compare healthcare-seeking behaviors and cost variables by nationality using two-sampled t-tests or Chi-square tests (X2). The International Classification of Diseases was used to compare reported household illnesses for both populations. Average health service direct costs were estimated using the Colombian Government's Suficiencia database and self-reported out-of-pocket (OOP) payments for laboratory and pharmacy services. Indirect costs were calculated by multiplying self-reported days of missed work or usual activities with estimated income levels, derived by matching characteristics using the Gran Enquesta Integrada de Hogares database. We calculate economic burdens for both populations, combining self-reported healthcare-seeking behaviors and estimated healthcare service unit costs across six healthcare-seeking behavior categories. RESULTS: Despite similar disease profiles, Venezuelan migrants are 21.3% more likely to forego formal care than Colombians, with 746.3% more Venezuelans reporting lack of health insurance as their primary reason. Venezuelan women and uninsured report the greatest difficulties in accessing health services, with accessing medications becoming more difficult for Venezuelan women during the COVID-19 pandemic. Colombians cost the health system more per treated illness event (US$40) than Venezuelans (US$26) in our sample, over a thirty-day period. Venezuelans incur higher costs for emergency department visits (123.5% more) and laboratory/ pharmacy OOP payments (24.7% more). CONCLUSIONS: While Colombians and Venezuelans share similar disease burdens, significant differences exist in access, cost, and health-seeking behaviors. Increasing Venezuelan health insurance enrollment and tackling accessibility barriers are crucial for ensuring healthcare equity and effectively integrating the migrant population. Findings suggest that improving migrant access to primary healthcare would produce savings in Colombian healthcare expenditures.

Psychological resilience, resilient coping, and health behaviors among adults in Puerto Rico after multiple adverse events.

Objective: Residents of Puerto Rico have recently experienced multiple adverse events, including hurricanes, earthquakes, and political unrest. Such adversity is associated with worse mental and physical health. Psychological resilience and effective coping may mitigate these relations by fostering positive health behaviors, like consuming a high-quality diet and being physically active. However, empirical evidence for these relationships is limited. Methods: We assessed psychological resilience, resilient coping, and health behaviors among two groups of adults in Puerto Rico, before and during the pandemic, in 2019-2023 (total N = 1,342). Resilience and resilient coping were assessed using the Brief Resilience Scale and Brief Resilient Coping Scale. Diet quality was defined by the Alternate Healthy Eating Index from a food frequency questionnaire. We collected data on sleep, physical activity, alcohol intake, and tobacco use using validated questionnaires. Results: Adjusting for confounders, higher resilience z-scores were associated with being in the highest category of diet quality [OR: 1.25, 95 % CI: 1.04, 1.50]; getting 7-8 h of sleep per night [OR: 1.15, 95 % CI: 1.02,1.30]; and reporting moderate or heavy physical activity (vs. light or sedentary) [OR: 1.17, 95 % CI: 1.02,1.34]. The same patterns were observed for higher resilient coping z-scores, and for categorical measures of resilience and resilient coping. These relationships were stronger among participants interviewed during (vs. before) the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting that resilience and resilient coping may be particularly relevant during an ongoing stressor. Conclusion: Identifying supportive strategies to cultivate resilience and effective coping mechanisms may contribute to healthier behaviors, particularly in a vulnerable population.

Pap test recency and HPV vaccination among Brazilian immigrant women in the United States: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: The United States (U.S.) has a growing population of Brazilian immigrant women. However, limited research has explored Pap tests and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among this population. METHODS: Participants completed an online survey between July-August 2020. Bivariate analyses examined associations between healthcare-related variables (e.g., insurance, having a primary care provider) and demographics (e.g., age, education, income, marital status, years living in the U.S., primary language spoken at home) with 1) Pap test recency (within the past 3 years) and 2) HPV vaccination (0 doses vs. 1 + doses). Variables significant at p < 0.10 in bivariate analyses were included in multivariable logistic regression models examining Pap test recency and HPV vaccination. RESULTS: The study found that 83.7% of the sample had a Pap test in the past three years. Women who did not know their household income were less likely to be than women who reported a household income of < $25,000 (adjusted OR [aOR] = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.12, 0.95). Women who had seen a healthcare provider in the past year were more likely to have had a Pap test within the last three years than those who had not seen a provider in the past year ([aOR] = 2.43, 95% CI: 1.32, 4.47). Regarding HPV vaccination, 30.3% of respondents reported receiving one or more doses of the HPV vaccine. The multivariable logic regression models determined that women aged 27 -45 (aOR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.18, 0.67) were less likely than women aged 18-26 to have been vaccinated against HPV). and that women with a PCP were more likely to be vaccinated than those without a PCP (aOR = 2.47. 95% CI:1.30, 4.59). CONCLUSION: This study found that Brazilian immigrant women in the youngest age groups (21 - 29) for Pap test, 18- 26 for HPV vaccination) had somewhat better rates of Pap screening and HPV vaccination than the general U.S. POPULATION: This study adds new information about cervical cancer prevention and control behaviors among Brazilian immigrant women.

Predictors of cognitive change in cognitively healthy older women in Panama: the PARI-HD study.

Background: Evidence suggests that a combination of biological and social factors influence risk of dementia differently for women and men. In healthy older women, several factors may contribute to changes in cognition. Objective: Describe the characteristics associated with variation in cognition in a sample of cognitively healthy older Panamanian women. Methods: The study includes cross-sectional analyses of cognitive domains at baseline (n = 357) and 17-month (SD = 2.0) follow-up (n = 200) for women aged 60 years and older enrolled in the Panama Aging Research Initiative-Health Disparities (PARI-HD) study. Instruments included clinical questionnaires, physiological measures, and a neuropsychological test battery assessing global cognition and seven cognitive domains. Multiple regression analyses examined the associations between demographic and clinical characteristics and cognition at baseline. Repeated measures analyses were used to investigate changes in cognition from baseline to follow-up. Results: On average, participants were 68.6 years of age (SD = 5.9) with 16.1 years of education (SD = 4.7). Age, income, and education showed robust associations with baseline cognition. Subjective cognitive impairment was associated with lower performance in global cognition, verbal learning, and memory domains. Only performance in the attention domain decreased at follow-up, and subjective health state and depressive symptoms significantly predicted the change in attention. Discussion: Our study findings contribute to the investigation of cognitive health in older Hispanic women and to the understanding of sociodemographic and health-related factors associated with cognitive decline and the progression to cognitive impairment and dementia.

Clustering of health behaviors and their associations with cardiometabolic risk factors among adults at high risk for type 2 diabetes in India: A latent class analysis.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to identify clusters of health behaviors and study their associations with cardiometabolic risk factors in adults at high risk for type 2 diabetes in India. METHODS: Baseline data from the Kerala Diabetes Prevention Program (n = 1000; age 30-60 years) were used for this study. Information on physical activity (PA), sedentary behavior, fruit and vegetable intake, sleep, and alcohol and tobacco use was collected using questionnaires. Blood pressure, waist circumference, 2-h plasma glucose, high-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides were measured using standardized protocols. Latent class analysis was used to identify clusters of health behaviors, and multilevel mixed-effects linear regression was employed to examine their associations with cardiometabolic risk factors. RESULTS: Two classes were identified, with 87.4% of participants in class 1 and 12.6% in class 2. Participants in both classes had a high probability of not engaging in leisure-time PA (0.80 for class 1; 0.73 for class 2) and consuming <5 servings of fruit and vegetables per day (0.70 for class 1; 0.63 for class 2). However, participants in class 1 had a lower probability of sitting for >=3 h per day (0.26 vs 0.42), tobacco use (0.10 vs 0.75), and alcohol use (0.08 vs 1.00) compared to those in class 2. Class 1 had a significantly lower mean systolic blood pressure (ß = -3.70 mm Hg, 95% confidence interval [CI] -7.05, -0.36), diastolic blood pressure (ß = -2.45 mm Hg, 95% CI -4.74, -0.16), and triglycerides (ß = -0.81 mg/dL, 95% CI -0.75, -0.89). CONCLUSION: Implementing intervention strategies, tailored to cluster-specific health behaviors, is required for the effective prevention of cardiometabolic disorders among high-risk adults for type 2 diabetes.

COVID-19-Related Experiences and Perspectives of Peruvian College Students: A Descriptive Study.

The COVID-19 pandemic drastically affected higher education and higher education students around the world, but few studies of college students' experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic have been conducted in Latin America. This study describes the COVID-19-related experiences and perspectives of Peruvian college students. We surveyed 3,427 full-time college students (average age: 23 years) attending a multi-campus Peruvian university in fall 2020. Participants were recruited through the digital platform of the learning management system at their university, email, and social media. We asked participants how they were managing risks related to COVID-19; the continuity of social, educational, and work activities; and the psychological and economic impacts of the pandemic on their lives. Since March 2020, 73.0% of participants reported COVID-19-related symptoms, but only 33.9% were tested for COVID-19. During the national quarantine imposed by the Peruvian government (March 15-June 30, 2020), 64.3% of participants remained in their house. Furthermore, while 44.0% of participants were working in February 2020 (95% CI: [41.7%, 46.4%]), only 23.6% (95% CI: [21.7%, 25.7%]) were working immediately after the pandemic began (i.e., at the end of April 2020). Participants were more stressed about the health and educational implications of COVID-19 for Peruvian society and their families than about themselves. The public health, economic, and educational implications of COVID-19 on college students are continuing to unfold. This study informed Peruvian higher education institutions' continued response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the progressive return to postpandemic activities, as well as other future pandemics and other crises.

¿Existen realmente las etapas de cambio para actividad física? Hallazgos desde un estudio con una muestra estudiantil universitaria que combina el Modelo Procesual de Acción en Salud con el Modelo Transteórico / Are there really stages of change in physical activity? Findings from a study with a sample of university students that combines the health action process model with the transtheoretical model

Resumen El proceso de cambio hacia la práctica de actividad física todavía no ha sido adecuadamente caracterizado. Uno de los asuntos en discusión es si este proceso puede ser descrito en términos de etapas. Se llevó a cabo un estudio con el objetivo de examinar patrones de continuidad o discontinuidad de variables del Modelo Procesual de Acción en Salud dentro de las etapas propuestas por el Modelo Transteórico, y así valorar en qué medida la evidencia apoya la existencia de etapas. Para ello, se recogieron datos transversales de estudiantes universitarios (N = 490, edad = 22.5 años, DT = 6.57) y se hicieron ANOVA, contrastes planeados y análisis de tendencias polinómicas, siguiendo las recomendaciones de Sutton (2000). Los resultados para varias de las variables fueron compatibles con supuestos sobre la existencia de etapas. Sin embargo, para otras variables, los resultados no apoyan la existencia de etapas. Estos hallazgos proveen información útil para esfuerzos de integración de distintos modelos. Se discute sobre las implicaciones teóricas y prácticas de estos.

Abstract The process of change towards the practice of physical activity has not yet been adequately characterized. One issue under discussion is whether this process can be described in terms of stages. A study was carried out in order to examine patterns of continuity or discontinuity in variables of the Health Action Process Model within the stages proposed by the Transtheoretical Model, and thus assess to what extent the evidence supports the existence of stages. For this, cross-sectional data of university students (N = 490, mean age 22.5 years (SD = 6.57) were collected, and ANOVAs, planned contrasts, and polynomial trend analyses were performed, as recommended by Sutton (2000). The results for several variables were compatible with assumptions about the existence of stages. However, for other variables results did not support the existence of stages. These findings provide useful information for efforts to integrate different models. The theoretical and practical implications are discussed.

Health-promoting domains and lifestyle of a sample of Brazilian adolescents.

BACKGROUND: Reports indicate that the health habits of adults are strongly linked to the behaviors incorporated in adolescence. Therefore, it is essential to monitor the lifestyle of adolescents to promote their present and future health. This study aimed to identify differences in health-promoting domains according to demographic data and lifestyle behaviors, including physical activity, sedentary behavior, sleep duration, and food intake, in a sample of Brazilian adolescents. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cross-sectional school-based study, with the participation of 306 adolescents aged 14 to 18 years. A questionnaire was applied with structured questions to collect demographic data and lifestyle behaviors. To examine the health-promoting domains the Adolescent Health Promotion Scale (AHPS) was used. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis. RESULTS: Scores attributed to each of the health-promoting domains showed substantial variations according to sex, age, year of study, parents' schooling, and family economic class. After adjustment for covariables, the adolescent who presented significantly higher scores equivalent to the overall index of health promotion reported being more physically active (F = 4.848; P = 0.009), sleeping 6-8 hours/night (F = 2.328; P = 0.046), consuming fruit/vegetable more frequently (F = 3.168; P = 0.024), while sedentary behavior and intake of sweetened products/soft drinks have not shown any significant effect. CONCLUSION: The findings confirmed the consistent positive influence of health-promoting domains assessed by AHPS on healthy lifestyle behaviors, suggesting in the intervention programs aimed at adopting healthy lifestyle approaches it is important enough to contemplate actions aimed at all the areas of health promotion with characteristics aimed at nutrition behavior, social support, health responsibility, life appreciation, exercise behavior, and stress management.

A Comparative Study Regarding the Impact of Covid-19 on Latin American College Students

COVID-19 has changed educational opportunities for students around the world, and, in the process, affected their lifestyle, happiness, and engagement. The present research is part of a project from six universities in different countries across Latin America to examine the impact of COVID-19 on university students. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess and compare the impact of COVID-19 on lifestyle changes, orientations to happiness, and student engagement among a sample of college students in Mexico, El Salvador, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Peru, and the US. Methods: Participants were 1764 students from the six previously identified countries. Data were collected using the Student Health Behavior Inventory, the Orientations to Happiness Scale, and the University Student Engagement Inventory. Results: Student respondents were mostly female, with a median age of 22. Most reported no changes in academic performance and statistically significant changes in some lifestyle behaviors such as nutrition and physical activity. Conclusions: The global pandemic led to behavioral changes among college students in Latin America, and it affected their orientations to happiness and engagement. Institutions of higher learning are called to create opportunities for their students to reintegrate into an in-person learning environment to facilitate positive lifestyle changes for their students.

El COVID-19 ha cambiado las oportunidades educativas para los estudiantes de todo el mundo y en el proceso afectó su estilo de vida, felicidad y compromiso. La presente investigación es parte de un proyecto de seis universidades en diferentes países de América Latina para determinar el impacto de COVID-19 en estudiantes universitarios. Objetivos: El propósito de este estudio fue evaluar y comparar el impacto del COVID-19 en los cambios de estilo de vida, las orientaciones hacia la felicidad y el compromiso de los estudiantes entre una muestra de estudiantes universitarios en México, El Salvador, Colombia, República Dominicana, Perú y Estados Unidos. Métodos: Los participantes fueron 1764 estudiantes de los seis países previamente identificados. Los datos se recolectaron utilizando el Inventario de Conducta de Salud del Estudiante, la Escala de Orientaciones a la Felicidad y el Inventario de Participación de los Estudiantes Universitarios. Resultados. Los estudiantes encuestados eran en su mayoría mujeres con una edad promedio de 22 años. La mayoría informó que no hubo cambios en el rendimiento académico y cambios estadísticamente significativos en algunos comportamientos de estilo de vida, como la nutrición y la actividad física. Conclusiones: La pandemia global provocó cambios de comportamiento entre los estudiantes universitarios de América Latina y afectó sus orientaciones hacia la felicidad y su compromiso. Las instituciones de educación superior están llamadas a crear oportunidades para que sus estudiantes se reintegren en un entorno de aprendizaje en persona para facilitar cambios positivos en el estilo de vida de sus estudiantes.

Isotemporal substitution of sleep or sedentary behavior with physical activity in the context of frailty among older adults: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Frailty syndrome is associated with various physical, cognitive, social, economic, and environmental factors. Although frailty syndrome occurs progressively with age, prevention and treatment are possible. Reducing or eliminating risks and increasing protective factors may be potential strategies for reducing the prevalence of injuries related to frailty. One of the most effective actions is to decrease the time spent in sedentary behavior (SB) by increasing regular physical activity (PA). OBJECTIVE: To examine the hypothetical effect of substitution of the time spent in sleep or SB with an equivalent time spent performing moderate or vigorous PA on frailty syndrome in the older population. DESIGN AND SETTING: An analytical cross-sectional study conducted using exploratory methods of survey, carried out in Alcobaça city, Bahia, Brazil. METHODS: A total of 456 older adults of both sexes, aged ≥ 60 years, participated in this study. Frailty syndrome was identified according to the criteria of the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures. PA and SB were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and sleep was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. The effects of time substitution on these behaviors were verified using Poisson regression. RESULTS: The replacement of 60 min/day of SB (prevalence ratio, PR = 0.52; 95% confidence interval, CI: 0.28-0.96) or sleep (PR = 0.52; 95% CI: 0.27-0.98) with 60 min/day of moderate PA (MPA) was associated with a 48% reduction in the prevalence of frailty syndrome. CONCLUSIONS: Replacing the time spent sitting or sleeping with the same amount of MPA time may reduce frailty; the longer the duration of time spent in the substitution of sleep or SB with MPA, the greater the benefits.

Health behaviors and multimorbidity associated with bruxism: Population-based study.

OBJECTIVES: Determine the prevalence of possible bruxism in the adult population of Campinas, Brazil, and investigate its association with health behaviors, health status, and multimorbidity. METHODS: A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted with data from the 2014/2015 Campinas Health Survey. The sample was composed of 1986 adults (≥20 years of age). The data were collected with the aid of a pre-coded questionnaire, and the dependent variable was self-reported bruxism (possible bruxism). The prevalence of possible bruxism was estimated according to the independent variables (health-related behaviors, morbidities, demographic and socioeconomic characteristics). A hierarchical model was employed using stepwise backward regression in two stages. Principal component analysis was also performed to identify multimorbidity patterns. RESULTS: The prevalence of possible bruxism was 13.6%. Associations were found with the consumption of alcoholic beverages, sleep quality, and the number of chronic diseases/health problems. Bruxism was more associated with multimorbidity pattern 2, which was composed of asthma, rhinitis, sinusitis, dizziness/vertigo, migraine/headache, emotional/mental problem, back pain, and allergy. CONCLUSION: The present findings justify the planning of actions directed at reducing the consumption of alcoholic beverages and can help guide the health actions of the multidisciplinary team, prioritizing a reduction in the harm caused by the simultaneous presence of health problems associated with possible bruxism.

Physical activity-related indicators in children and adolescents in Uruguay: A scoping review based on the Global Matrix initiative.

Background: The first Uruguay's Report Card in 2018 based on the Global Matrix initiative showed the lack of information on physical activity in children and adolescents. This study mapped and examined the available evidence on physical activity-related indicators based on Uruguay's 2022 Report Card. Methods: The scoping review was reported using the Joanna Briggs Institute and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was performed for the period between 2018 and 2021, including electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, LILACS, Scielo, and Latindex), gray literature (Google Scholar, open access thesis, relevant websites of State-agencies and International Organizations), national and regional relevant journals, and reference lists of key texts. Two researchers independently conducted both the selection and data-charting process. Data items from each paper were charted based on the Population, Concept, and Context elements reflected in the objective of the review. A narrative synthesis and network plots were conducted to summarize the evidence. Results: A total of 20 papers were included in this review, consisting of four peer-reviewed scientific papers, three bachelor's theses, four official documents of State-agencies, four Government reports, of which three included national surveys, and five laws. Strengths, weaknesses, and knowledge gaps were identified from the available evidence. We synthesized main challenges such as publishing scientific studies, establishing cross-national and cross-sectoral collaborations in research projects, generating high-quality data, reporting information on social inequality indicators that influence equitable distribution, or increasing access to public information. Our results support early emerging and growth research on this topic. However, despite existing papers on physical activity-related indicators in Uruguayan youths, the lack of high-quality evidence remains clear. Conclusion: The findings of this scoping review provide the best available evidence for identifying and overcoming the challenges of physical activity-related indicators research in Uruguay. The methodological framework used could be useful for countries involved in future editions of the Global Matrix initiative. Systematic review registration: Open Science Framework, https://osf.io/hstbd/.

Risk perception, but also political orientation, modulate behavioral response to COVID-19: A randomized survey experiment.

Prior work has shown that accurately perceiving the risk for COVID-19 is associated with higher adherence to protective health behaviors, like face mask use, and more acceptance of governmental restrictive measures such as partial or complete banning of indoor activities and social gatherings. In this study we explored these associations at the beginning of the second wave of COVID-19 in Argentina through a national representative probabilistic survey that evaluated personal and contextual risk perception, self-reported compliance with protective health behaviors, attitude to governmental restrictive measures, and political orientation and psychological distress as potential modulators. Also, going beyond measures of association, here we sought to test whether messages highlighting potential risks increased acceptance of restrictive measures. Three types of messages were randomized to the participants. Two messages conveyed risk-related content (either through emotional arousal or cognitive appraisal) and the third a prosocial, altruistic content. Between March 29th and 30th, 2021, 2,894 participants were recruited (57.57% female). 74.64% of those surveyed evaluated the current health situation as "quite serious" or "very serious" and 62.03% estimated that the situation will be "worse" or "much worse" in the following 3 months. The perception of personal risk and the level of adherence to protective behaviors gradually increased with age. Through a regression model, age, perceived personal risk, and contextual risk appraisal were the variables most significantly associated with protective behaviors. In the case of the acceptance of restrictive measures, political orientation was the most associated variable. We then found messages aimed at increasing risk perception (both emotionally or cognitively focused) had a significantly greater effect on increasing the acceptance of restrictive measures than the prosocial message, mainly for government supporters but also for non-supporters. However, the level of response was also modulated by the political orientation of the participants. We propose a mechanism of "ideological anchoring" to explain that participants were responsive to risk modulation, but within the limits established by their pre-existent political views. We conclude that messages highlighting risk can help reinforce the acceptance of restrictive measures even in the presence of polarized views, but must be calibrated by age and political orientation.

Consumo de tabaco y alcohol y comportamientos de salud entre estudiantes de enfermería / O consumo de tabaco e álcool e os comportamentos de saúde em estudantes de enfermagen / Tobacco and alcohol consumption and health behaviors among nursing students

Objective: To evaluate the association between attitudes, health behaviors, and the use of tobacco and alcohol among nursing students. Materials and method: Exploratory, descriptive and cross-sectional study conducted with 182 undergraduate nursing students in the countryside of São Paulo, Brazil. Sociodemographic Information Form, Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test ­ C (AUDIT-C), Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND), Attitudes and Health Behaviors Questionnaire (AHBQ), and Patient Health Questionnaire ­ 2 (PHQ-2) were applied. Results: More than half of the students showed appropriate health behaviors and positive attitudes. Approximately 50% of the participants had consumed alcoholic beverages in the last month. Experimental use of illicit drugs and smoking were also observed. In addition, students who reported excessive alcohol use presented a deficit in self-care. Conclusions: The precariousness in health attitudes and behaviors identified in this study was associated with various patterns of psychoactive substance use. Thus, the results indicate the need for interventions aimed at promoting well-being and a healthy lifestyle in the university environment.

Objetivo: evaluar la asociación entre las actitudes, los comportamientos de salud y el uso de tabaco y alcohol entre un grupo de estudiantes de enfermería. Materiales y método: estudio exploratorio, descriptivo y transversal realizado con 182 estudiantes de pregrado en enfermería en São Paulo, Brasil. Se aplicaron los siguientes instrumentos: Formulario de Información Sociodemográfica, Prueba de Identificación de Trastornos Derivados del Consumo de Alcohol ­ C (AUDIT-C), Test de Fagerström para Adicción a la Nicotina (FTND), Cuestionario sobre Actitudes y Conductas de Salud (CACS) y Cuestionario de Salud del Paciente ­ 2 (PHQ-2). Resultados: más de la mitad de los estudiantes mostraron comportamientos de salud apropiados y actitudes positivas. Aproximadamente 50 % de los participantes había consumido bebidas alcohólicas en el último mes. También se observó el uso experimental de drogas ilícitas y tabaco. Además, los estudiantes que reportaron el consumo excesivo de alcohol presentaron un déficit en el autocuidado. Conclusiones: la precariedad en las actitudes y los comportamientos de salud identificados en este estudio fue asociada con diversos patrones de uso de sustancias psicoactivas. Los resultados señalan la necesidad de intervenciones destinadas a promover el bienestar y un estilo de vida saludable en el ámbito universitario.

Objetivo: avaliar a associação entre as atitudes, os comportamentos de saúde e o uso de tabaco e álcool num grupo de estudantes de enfermagen. Materiais e método: estudo exploratório, descritivo e transversal realizado com 182 estudantes de graduação em enfermagem em São Paulo, Brasil. Foram aplicados os seguintes instrumentos: Formulário de Informação Sociodemográfica, Teste de Identificação de Transtornos Derivados do Consumo de Álcool-C (AUDIT-C), Teste de Fagerström para a Dependência de Nicotina (FTND), Questionário sobre Atitudes e Condutas de Saúde (CACS) e Questionário de Saúde do Paciente-2 (PHQ-2). Resultados: mais da metade dos estudantes mostraram comportamentos de saúde apropriados e atitudes positivas. Aproximadamente 50 % dos participantes tinham consumido bebidas alcoólicas no último mês. Também foi observado o uso experimental de drogas ilícitas e tabaco. Além disso, os estudantes que relataram o consumo excessivo de álcool apresentaram um déficit no autocuidado. Conclusões: a precariedade nas atitudes e comportamentos de saúde identificados neste estudo foi associada com diversos padrões de uso de substâncias psicoativas. Os resultados indicam a necessidade de intervenções destinadas a promover o bem-estar e um estilo de vida saudável no contexto universitário.

Cardiovascular risk behavior among industrial workers in the Northeast of Brazil: a cluster analysis / Comportamento de risco cardiovascular entre trabalhadores industriais no nordeste do Brasil: uma análise de cluster

Abstract This research aimed to investigate the occurrence of clusters of cardiovascular risk behaviors and their association with social demographic and occupational characteristics in a population of industrial workers in the metropolitan area of Recife, Brazil. It was a transversal study with 727 workers of both genders. We identified cluster distribution from the variables: smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity and waist circumference, by a combination of hierarchical and non-hierarchical analysis. We later tested the association with the social demographic and occupational variables with a multi-varied analysis. We have identified a protection cluster (sufficient physical activity, moderate alcohol consumption) and a risk cluster (high waist circumference, sedentarism, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption). The protection cluster was positively associated with night shift or variable shift work (RP: 1.66, IC95%: 1.26-2.17), and the risk cluster was associated with women (RP: 1.15, IC95%: 1.01-1.31). Cluster analysis allowed to identify that, for day shift workers and women, the shortest daytime outside the work environment can influence the adoption of cardiovascular risk behaviors.

Resumo Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo investigar a ocorrência de clusters de comportamentos de risco cardiovascular e sua associação com características sociodemográficas e ocupacionais em uma população de trabalhadores da indústria da região metropolitana de Recife, Brasil. Trata-se de um estudo transversal com 727 trabalhadores de ambos os gêneros. Identificou-se a distribuição do cluster a partir das variáveis: tabagismo, etilismo, atividade física e circunferência da cintura, por meio de uma combinação de análise hierárquica e não hierárquica. Posteriormente, testamos a associação às variáveis sociodemográficas e ocupacionais com uma análise multivariada. Identificamos a formação consistente de um cluster de proteção (atividade física suficiente, consumo moderado de álcool) e de um cluster de risco (circunferência da cintura elevada, sedentarismo, tabagismo, consumo excessivo de álcool). O cluster de proteção associou-se positivamente ao turno noturno ou turnos variáveis (RP: 1,66, IC95%: 1,26-2,17) e o cluster de risco esteve associado às mulheres (RP: 1,15, IC95%: 1,01-1,31). A análise de cluster permitiu identificar que, para trabalhadores diurnos e mulheres, a menor jornada diurna fora do trabalho pode influenciar na adoção de comportamentos de risco cardiovascular.

Effects of Self-Selected Passive Recovery Time in Interval Exercise on Perceptual and Heart Rate Responses in Older Women: A Promissory Approach.

The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of passive recovery with self-selected time on affect, ratings of perceived exertion, and heart rate in self-selected interval exercises (SSIE). Fifteen older women (68.1 ± 3.8 years), weekly practitioners of functional activities participated in three SSIE with self-selected recovery time (SSRT) and one self-selected continuous exercise session, all at 24 min approximately. The SSIE had the following configurations: 1'/SSRT, 1.5'/SSRT, and 2'/SSRT. The results showed that at the beginning of stimulus heart rate in 1.5'/SSRT (107.9 ± 16.5) and 2'/SSRT (114.6 ± 17.1) were significantly greater (p < .05) compared with self-selected continuous exercise (102.8 ± 14.5). The ratings of perceived exertion in self-selected continuous exercise (2.4 ± 0.4; p < .05) were higher compared with SSIE in recovery. No significant differences were found in affect. The SSIE provided similar responses based on recoveries manipulations.

Satisfacción con la vida y Conductas de salud en estudiantes universitarios de nuevo ingreso / Satisfaction with life and health behaviors in incoming college students / Satisfação com a Vida e Comportamentos de Saúde em Novos Estudantes Universitários

En la actualidad resultan escasos los estudios que relacionen la satisfacción con la vida y las conductas saludables en estudiantes que inician sus estudios universitarios, aun cuando se sabe que la transición a la etapa universitaria puede originar diversos cambios con repercusiones importantes para la salud de los estudiantes. OBJETIVO: determinar la relación entre la satisfacción con la vida y las conductas de salud en estudiantes de primer semestre de una universidad pública venezolana. MÉTODO: estudio de naturaleza cuantitativa, no experimental, descriptivo, correlacional y transversal, utilizó una muestra conformada por 636 estudiantes (65% mujeres y 35% hombres) con edades entre los 15 y 27 años, seleccionados bajo un muestreo no probabilístico intencional. RESULTADOS: los estudiantes se caracterizan por estar satisfechos con su vida y presentan niveles moderados de conductas saludables en general. Asimismo, la satisfacción con la vida difiere según el sexo y el estrato socioeconómico, mientras que algunas conductas de salud difieren según el sexo, el estrato socioeconómico y la edad. Por otra parte, la satisfacción con la vida presenta relación significativa con las conductas de salud a nivel general y en las dimensiones conductas preventivas, sueño, actividad física, control en el consumo de drogas y chequeo médico. CONCLUSIÓN: la satisfacción con la vida resulta ser una variable protectora que fomenta conductas saludables en estudiantes universitarios, en especial los que recién inician los estudios, siendo importante considerarla en futuras intervenciones y programas de promoción de la salud.

Currently, there are few studies that relate satisfaction with life and healthy behaviors in students starting their university studies, even though it is known that the transition to the university stage can cause various changes with important repercussions on the health of students. OBJECTIVE: to determine the relationship between life satisfaction and health behaviors in first semester students at a Venezuelan public university. METHOD: a quantitative, non-experimental, descriptive, correlational, and cross-sectional study, using a sample of 636 students (65% women and 35% men) between 15 and 27 years of age, selected under a non-probabilistic intentional sampling. RESULTS: the students are characterized by being satisfied with their lives and present moderate levels of healthy behaviors in general. Also, life satisfaction differs by gender and socioeconomic status, while some health behaviors differ by gender, socioeconomic status, and age. On the other hand, life satisfaction is significantly related to health behaviors at the general level and in the dimension's preventive behaviors, sleep, physical activity, drug use control and medical check-up. CONCLUSION: life satisfaction turns out to be a protective variable that promotes healthy behaviors in university students, especially those who are just starting their studies, and it is important to consider it in future interventions and health promotion programs.

Atualmente, há poucos estudos que relacionam a satisfação com a vida e comportamentos saudáveis em estudantes que iniciam seus estudos universitários, embora se saiba que a transição para a etapa universitária pode causar diversas mudanças com repercussões importantes para a saúde dos alunos. OBJETIVO: determinar a relação entre satisfação com a vida e comportamentos de saúde em alunos do primeiro semestre de uma universidade pública venezuelana. MÉTODO: um estudo quantitativo, não experimental, descritivo, correlacional e transversal utilizou uma amostra de 636 estudantes (65% mulheres e 35% homens) com idade entre 15 e 27 anos, selecionados em amostragem não probabilística intencional. RESULTADOS: os alunos se caracterizam por estarem satisfeitos com suas vidas e apresentam níveis moderados de comportamentos saudáveis em geral. Além disso, a satisfação com a vida difere por sexo e status socioeconômico, enquanto alguns comportamentos de saúde diferem por sexo, estrato socioeconômico e idade. Por outro lado, a satisfação com a vida apresenta uma relação significativa com os comportamentos de saúde em nível geral e nas dimensões comportamentos preventivos, sono, atividade física, controle no uso de drogas e check-up médico. CONCLUSÃO: a satisfação com a vida acaba por ser uma variável protetora que incentiva comportamentos saudáveis em estudantes universitários, especialmente aqueles que estão apenas iniciando seus estudos, e é importante considerá-lo em intervenções futuras e programas de promoção da saúde.

Sociodemographic factors associated with public knowledge of dementia in a Cuban population / Fatores sociodemográficos associados ao conhecimento público sobre demência em uma população cubana

ABSTRACT International organizations estimate that a new dementia is diagnosed every 3 s. Objectives: To explore the knowledge and beliefs among a cross-section of the adult population of Cuba with regard to dementia risk factors and to determine the demographic variables related with it. A cross-sectional survey was carried out on 1,004 Cubans. Methods: The survey measured the importance placed on dementia, risk reduction knowledge, and the actions to prevent it. Logistic regression was undertaken to identify variables associated with knowledge. Results: Many respondents (47.5%) believe that dementia risk reduction should start before the age of 40. Cognitive stimulation and physical activities were selected with major frequency. Being older than 48 years, having previous contact with dementia, and university education increases the probability of having healthy lifestyles. Conclusions: The exploration of demographic variables allows the prediction of likelihood to know about or have positive beliefs in relation to dementia. They should be contemplated into strategies for dementia prevention in Cuban population.

RESUMO Organizações internacionais estimam que um novo diagnóstico de demência seja feito a cada três segundos. Objetivos: Explorar o conhecimento e as crenças da população adulta cubana com relação aos fatores de risco de demência e determinar as variáveis demográficas a eles relacionados mediante um estudo de seção transversal. Um levantamento transversal foi realizado com 1.004 cubanos. Métodos: A pesquisa mediu a importância atribuída à demência, o conhecimento sobre redução de risco e as ações para preveni-la. Regressão logística foi realizada para identificar variáveis associadas ao conhecimento. Resultados: Muitos entrevistados (47,5%) acreditam que a redução do risco de demência deve começar antes dos 40 anos. A estimulação cognitiva e as atividades físicas foram selecionadas com maior frequência. Ter mais de 48 anos, contato prévio com demência e formação universitária aumentaram a probabilidade de ter estilos de vida saudáveis. Conclusões: A exploração de variáveis demográficas permite predizer a probabilidade de conhecer ou ter crenças positivas em relação à demência. Variáveis demográficas devem ser contempladas nas estratégias de prevenção de demência na população cubana.

Necesidades, Creencias y Prácticas en Salud Oral de Padres y Cuidadores de Preescolares: Un Enfoque Cualitativo / Needs, Beliefs and Practices in Oral Health of Preschoolers' Parents and Caregivers: A Qualitative Scope

A casi diez años de la implementación del exitoso programa público de promoción de la salud bucal para preescolares en Chile, se presenta el estudio previo que recogió la visión y significados para los padres acerca de temas de salud oral de sus hijos preescolares en un Chile urbano y rural de siete comunas distintas. Bien sabemos que la alta prevalenci a de la caries dental en Chile y sus consecuencias a lo largo del ciclo vital, ha relevado la Promoción de Salud como una estrategia necesaria para la situación sanitaria de hace una década y para la actual a través de la implementación de programas con enfoque preventivo, como lo es el programa Sembrando Sonrisas, cuyo componente educativo se centra en los/as cuidadores de preescolares. En esta línea, cabe destacar que el Modelo de Creencias en Salud (MCS) actúa como un predictor para las prácticas en salud que desarrollan los/as cuidadores respecto a sus hijos, las cuales pueden ser activadas y/o modificadas por estrategias educativas o consejería otorgada por profesionales de la salud. Este estudio buscó explorar, mediante metodología cualitativa, los sistemas de creencias en torno a las necesidades en salud oral percibidas por padres y cuidadores/as de niños/ as preescolares que participaron del pilotaje del Programa preventivo de salud bucal en población preescolar el año 2007. Los resultados obtenidos evidencian elementos que pudieron condicionar la conducta en torno a los cuidados de la salud oral de las/ os cuidadores hacia los preescolares. Entre los hallazgos, se encuentra que los padres y apoderados atribuían los cuidados en salud oral a terceras personas (odontólogos y educadoras de párvulos), al tiempo que relatan una falta de información en términos comprensibles para que ellos puedan replicar prácticas adecuadas en sus hijos. Por otro lado, la postergación de la visita al odontólogo se explica debido a malas experiencias previas y falta de acceso a servicios de atención odontológica. Sin embargo, la salud dental es relevada desde un punto de vista estético y como un elemento importante en la superación de estigmas sociales.

Almost ten years after the implementation of the successful public oral health promotion program for preschoolers in Chile, we present the previous study that collected the vision and meanings for parents about oral health issues of their preschool children in urban and rural Chile in seven different communities. The high prevalence of dental caries and their consequences throughout the lifetime in Chile has made health promotion a relevant strategy that allows facing the current health situation by implementing prevention-oriented programs focused on the pre-school level population, like the "Sembrando Sonrisas" program whose educational component focuses on parents and caregivers. In this line, it is worth mentioning the Health Beliefs Model (HBM), which acts as a predictor for the health practices that parents develop concerning their children, which can be activated and or modified by educational strategies or counseling provided by health professionals. This study seeks to explore, through qualitative methodology, the belief system around the oral health needs perceived by parents and caregivers of pre-school children who participated in the testing of the Preventive Oral Health Program in pre-school level population in 7 counties of the country during 2007. The results obtained showcase that parents and guardians assign oral health care to third parties (dentists, pre-school educators) while reporting a lack of understandable information so that they can replicate practices in their children. On the other hand, postponing the visit to the dentist is justified due to previous bad experiences and lack of access to dental care services. However, dental health is relevant from an aesthetic point of view and as an element to overcome social prejudice.