Empatía médica en residentes y tutores de medicina familiar y comunitaria. La visión del profesional y del paciente / Clinical empathy among family and community medicine residents and tutors. The view of physicians and patients

OBJETIVO: Determinar el grado de empatía de residentes y tutores de medicina de familia. Saber si existe relación entre la empatía autopercibida por los médicos y la valorada por sus pacientes. DISEÑO: Estudio observacional transversal mediante encuesta. Emplazamiento: Unidad Docente de Atención Primaria, Madrid. PARTICIPANTES: Se envió una encuesta por correo electrónico a todos los tutores y residentes de familia de la Unidad Docente. Respondieron 50 residentes (39,4%) y 41 tutores (45%). Un total de 428 pacientes fueron captados de forma oportunista en un Centro de Salud. Se entrevistó a sus médicos. Mediciones principales: La empatía se midió mediante la Escala de Empatía Médica de Jefferson y la Escala de Percepciones de los Pacientes sobre la Empatía Médica de Jefferson. RESULTADOS: Los tutores puntuaron 2,53 puntos más alto en empatía cognitiva que los residentes (p = 0,04). Las puntuaciones de la empatía emocional de los tutores son menores en aquellos de mayor edad (r = -0,32; p < 0,05). Los residentes españoles (el 82%) y sin experiencia laboral previa puntuaron más alto en empatía global (p = 0,02). Los residentes de último año obtuvieron calificaciones significativamente más bajas en empatía que el resto de sus compañeros. Se observó correlación positiva (r = 0,72; p = 0,01) entre la autopercepción de la empatía del profesional y la referida por sus pacientes. CONCLUSIONES: Los residentes con experiencia profesional previa, los de último año de residencia y los de origen latinoamericano presentan puntuaciones más bajas de empatía. Existe fuerte relación entre la empatía autopercibida por los médicos y la visión que sus pacientes tienen sobre la misma

AIM: To determine the degree of clinical empathy among family medicine residents and tutors. To gauge whether there is a relationship between physicians' self-perceived empathy levels and their patients' assessments. Study design: Observational, cross-sectional survey. LOCATION: Primary Care Teaching Unit. Madrid. PARTICIPANTS: A survey was sent by email to all the Teaching Unit's family medicine tutors and residents. Responses were received from 50 residents (39.4%) and 41 tutors (45%). In addition, 428 patients were opportunistically recruited at a healthcare centre and their doctors were also interviewed. Primary measurement instruments: Empathy was measured using the Jefferson Scale of Empathy and the Jefferson Scale of Patient Perceptions of Physician Empathy. RESULTS: The tutors scored 2.53 points higher for cognitive empathy than the residents (P = .04). Emotional empathy scores declined among older tutors (r = -0.32; P = .05). The Spanish students (82% of the total) without previous work experience scored higher for overall empathy (P = .02). Final-year residents recorded significantly worse empathy assessments than the other residents. A positive correlation (r = 0.72; P = .01) was observed between physicians' self-perceived empathy and their patients' perceptions. CONCLUSIONS: Residents with previous work experience, final-year residents and those of Latin American origin score lower for empathy. There is a strong relationship between physicians' self-perceived empathy and their patients' views of their empathy levels

A primary healthcare information intervention for communicating cardiovascular risk to patients with poorly controlled hypertension: The Education and Coronary Risk Evaluation (Educore) study-A pragmatic, cluster-randomized trial.

PURPOSE: Uncertainty exists regarding the best way to communicate cardiovascular risk (CVR) to patients, and it is unclear whether the comprehension and perception of CVR varies according to the format used. The aim of the present work was to determine whether a strategy designed for communicating CVR information to patients with poorly controlled high blood pressure (HBP), but with no background of cardiovascular disease, was more effective than usual care in the control of blood pressure (BP) over the course of a year. METHODS: A pragmatic, two-arm, cluster-randomized controlled trial was performed. Consecutive patients aged 40-65 years, all diagnosed with HBP in the last 12 months, and all of whom showed poor control of their condition (systolic BP ≥140 mmHg and/or diastolic BP ≥90 mmHg), were recruited at 22 primary healthcare centres. Eleven centres were randomly assigned to the usual care arm, and 11 to the informative intervention arm (Educore arm). At the start of the study, the Educore arm subjects were shown the "low risk SCORE table", along with impacting images and information pamphlets encouraging the maintenance of good cardiovascular health. The main outcome variable measured was the control of HBP; the secondary outcome variables were SCORE table score, total plasma cholesterol concentration, use of tobacco, adherence to prescribed treatment, and quality of life. RESULTS: The study participants were 411 patients (185 in the Educore arm and 226 in the usual care arm). Multilevel logistic regression showed that, at 12 months, the Educore intervention achieved better control of HBP (OR = 1.57; 1.02 to 2.41). No statistically significant differences were seen between the two arms at 12 months with respect to the secondary outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Compared to usual care, the Educore intervention was associated with better control of HBP after adjusting for age, baseline SBP and plasma cholesterol, at 12 months.

[Clinical empathy among family and community medicine residents and tutors. The view of physicians and patients]. / Empatía médica en residentes y tutores de medicina familiar y comunitaria. La visión del profesional y del paciente.

AIM: To determine the degree of clinical empathy among family medicine residents and tutors. To gauge whether there is a relationship between physicians' self-perceived empathy levels and their patients' assessments. STUDY DESIGN: Observational, cross-sectional survey. LOCATION: Primary Care Teaching Unit. Madrid. PARTICIPANTS: A survey was sent by email to all the Teaching Unit's family medicine tutors and residents. Responses were received from 50 residents (39.4%) and 41 tutors (45%). In addition, 428 patients were opportunistically recruited at a healthcare centre and their doctors were also interviewed. PRIMARY MEASUREMENT INSTRUMENTS: Empathy was measured using the Jefferson Scale of Empathy and the Jefferson Scale of Patient Perceptions of Physician Empathy. RESULTS: The tutors scored 2.53 points higher for cognitive empathy than the residents (P=.04). Emotional empathy scores declined among older tutors (r= -0.32; P=.05). The Spanish students (82% of the total) without previous work experience scored higher for overall empathy (P=.02). Final-year residents recorded significantly worse empathy assessments than the other residents. A positive correlation (r=0.72; P=.01) was observed between physicians' self-perceived empathy and their patients' perceptions. CONCLUSIONS: Residents with previous work experience, final-year residents and those of Latin American origin score lower for empathy. There is a strong relationship between physicians' self-perceived empathy and their patients' views of their empathy levels.

Patrones de sueño de los niños sanos a los cuatro años: factores sociales y estilos de crianza / Sleep patterns of healthy children at age four: social factors and parenting styles

INTRODUCCIÓN: estudio descriptivo transversal mediante un cuestionario en las consultas de Pediatría de Atención Primaria en centros de salud, cuyo objetivo es describir el patrón de sueño en los niños de cuatro años, nacidos a término, en dos zonas urbanas de la Comunidad de Madrid, y estudiar posibles asociaciones con diversas variables: antecedentes de crianza y hábitos del sueño, factores socioeconómicos y familiares. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: se ha estudiado a 193 niños, de los cuales 111 (57,8%) presentaron un test de cribado alterado. Un 94,9% duerme nueve o más horas nocturnas. Dentro de los antecedentes de crianza, un 89,6% ha recibido lactancia materna y el 51,8% la ha mantenido más de seis meses. El 28,5% de los padres realizó colecho. En el momento actual, el 51% comparte habitación con hermanos, mientras que el 9,9% duerme con los padres. El 57,8% utiliza aparatos electrónicos como inductores del sueño. RESULTADOS: se ha encontrado un mayor porcentaje de posibles alteraciones del sueño en niños que son hijos únicos, no asistieron a guardería, duermen con los padres en el momento actual, realizan colecho reactivo y utilizan aparatos electrónicos después de cenar. CONCLUSIONES: se concluye que la prevalencia de signos de alarma de un trastorno del sueño es alta, y dadas las implicaciones a largo plazo de estos problemas, es importante tener un protocolo de cribado adecuado para identificar a los niños con posibles alteraciones. Conocer las asociaciones estudiadas podría permitir al pediatra realizar una labor educativa con las familias susceptibles, para prevenir o solucionar estas alteraciones

INTRODUCTION: we conducted a cross-sectional and descriptive study by means of a questionnaire in the paediatrics clinics of the Paseo Imperial and Pozuelo Estación primary care centres in Madrid with the aim of describing the sleep patterns of children born at term currently aged 4 years in 2 urban areas of the Community of Madrid and of analysing potential associations with various variables: parenting history and sleep habits and socioeconomic and family-related factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS: the study included 193 children, of who 111 (57.8%) had abnormal screening results; 94.9% slept 9 or more hours per night. When it came to the parenting history, 89.6% had been breastfed, 51.8% for more than 6 months, and 28.5% had coslept with parents. At the time of the study, 51% shared a room with siblings, while 9.9% slept with parents. Also, 57.8% use electronic devices for sleep induction. RESULTS: we found higher percentages of possible sleep disturbances in only children, children not attending a childcare centre, currently sleeping with parents, that engaged in reactive cosleeping or used electronic devices after dinner. CONCLUSIONS: the prevalence of warning signs of sleep disorders was high, and given the long-term repercussions of these problems, it is important to have in place an adequate screening protocol to identify children with potential disturbances. Adequate awareness of identified associations would allow paediatricians to deliver educational interventions to susceptible families in order to prevent or resolve sleep abnormalities

La evaluación de residentes en las Unidades Docentes de Atención Familiar y Comunitaria de Madrid: ¿qué opinan los residentes y sus tutores? / valuation of residents in Primary Care Teaching Units of Madrid: what do the residents and their tutors think?

INTRODUCCIÓN: La evaluación de residentes es un proceso complejo cuyas herramientas casi nunca generan certezas sobre el nivel competencial del evaluado. En las unidades docentes recae la responsabilidad de proponer la concesión de títulos de especialistas en ciencias de la salud, por ello realizan un esfuerzo continuo para la mejora del proceso dentro del nuevo marco normativo del Real Decreto 183/2008. Para afrontar cambios en el modelo evaluativo de las UUDDMM de AFyC de Madrid exploramos la opinión de tutores y residentes. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio descriptivo transversal mediante encuesta on line a 841 residentes y 832 tutores de Medicina y Enfermería Familiar y Comunitaria. RESULTADOS: La tasa de respuesta fue del 23,8% de los residentes (n=200) y 39,4% de los tutores (n=328). La mayoría realizan 4 o más entrevistas de tutorización anuales cuya principal dificultad declarada es la escasez de tiempo. Demuestran alta satisfacción con ellas por mejorar la relación personal y la calidad de la tutorización. Los residentes no desean sustituirlas por métodos a distancia. Encuentran poco útiles herramientas reflexivas como los incidentes críticos e informes de autorreflexión, a pesar de la alta implicación de sus tutores en esas herramientas. La mayoría considera que las fichas 1 de evaluación de rotaciones no reflejan adecuadamente el aprovechamiento en ellas. Proponen el informe anual del tutor como principal método de evaluación sumativa. CONCLUSIONES: La evaluación de residentes debe sustentarse en la figura del tutor y un conjunto de herramientas, prioritariamente de evaluación formativa, que generen reflexión y un adecuado feed-back para continuar formándose

INTRODUCTION: Assessment of residents is a complex process, for which the evaluation tools hardly ever produce certainty about the competence level. Residents' teaching units have the responsibility of proposing the award of specialist degrees in health sciences, therefore they make a continuous effort to improve the process within the new regulatory framework in Spain. The opinion of tutors and residents were determined in order to address changes in the evaluation model of Primary Care teaching units in Madrid, Spain. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study based on an online survey of 841 residents and 832 tutors of Family Medicine and Community Nursing. RESULTS: The response rate was 23.8% for residents (n=200) and 39.4% for tutors (n=328). Most of them conducted four or more mentoring interviews per year, for which the main difficulty stated was the lack of time. They showed high satisfaction with these interviews as they improved the relationship and the quality of mentoring. The residents did not want to replace them by distance methods. The residents did not consider reflective tools useful as critical incidents and reports of self-reflection, despite the high involvement of their tutors in those tools. Most considered that official documents to assess training stays do not reflect the benefit that they provide. They propose the annual report of the tutor as the primary method of summative evaluation. CONCLUSIONS: Assessment of residents must be based on the tutor and a set of tools, primarily by formative assessment, that lead to reflection and adequate feed-back to continue their education

Prevalencia del trastorno por déficit de atención con hiperactividad en niños de una localidad urbana / Prevalence of attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity in children from an urban area

Introducción: el objetivo es estimar la prevalencia del trastorno por déficit de atención con hiperactividad en la población infantil (6-14 años) asignada a un centro de salud. Como objetivo secundario, describir el motivo de la primera consulta, el especialista que diagnostica y realiza el seguimiento, los criterios diagnósticos, el tipo de tratamiento, efectos secundarios derivados y comorbilidad. Se intenta comprobar si la prevalencia de niños con TDAH está alrededor del 5%, como refleja la bibliografía consultada. Pacientes y métodos: se realiza un estudio descriptivo transversal mediante una revisión en conjunto, con cada pediatra responsable, de las historias clínicas de niños adscritos al centro de salud Cerro del Aire en Majadahonda (Madrid, España) (4747 niños). Resultados: se han encontrado 108 casos con trastorno por déficit de atención con hiperactividad (prevalencia del 2,28%), el 23,15% niñas y el 76,85% niños. La edad media de diagnóstico es 7,89 años. El motivo de consulta más frecuente son los problemas de aprendizaje (39,82%). El diagnóstico y seguimiento lo realizan neuropediatras en el 48,15 y 50% de los casos respectivamente. En el 64,8% de los casos el diagnóstico se realiza según los criterios del DSM-IV combinado con escalas y valoración psicopedagógica. El 63,89% recibe tratamiento farmacológico, además de psicopedagógico. El fármaco más utilizado (88,88%) es metilfenidato. El 25,25% presentaron efectos secundarios. Existe comorbilidad en un 45,37% (trastornos del aprendizaje 27,12%). Conclusiones: la prevalencia encontrada es baja, pero hay que tener en cuenta los sesgos y limitaciones del estudio. Es importante tener un protocolo de diagnóstico y tratamiento único, para registrar adecuadamente y evitar infra- o sobrediagnosticar. Un 28% de los pacientes es seguido por pediatras de Atención Primaria (AU)

Introduction: the primary objective waste assess the prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in the paediatric population (ages 6-14 years) served by one primary care centre. The secondary objective waste describe the reasons for initial consultation, specialists that diagnosed and managed ADHD, the criteria used in diagnosis, the types of treatment and associated side effects, and the presence of comorbidities. We sought to determine whether the prevalence of ADHD in children was of approximately 5%, consistent with the reviewed literature. Patients and methods: we conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study through the review, in collaboration with the paediatrician in charge of each patient, of the health records of children in the catchment area or the Cerro del Aire primary care centre of Majadahonda (Madrid, Spain) (4747 children). Results: we identified 108 cases of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (prevalence of 2.28%), 23.15% in girls and 76.85% in boys. The mean age at diagnosis was 7.89 years. Learning problems were the most frequent reason for consultation (39.82%). Paediatric neurologists diagnosed 48.15% of cases and managed 50% of them. In 64.8% of cases, the diagnosis was made based on the DSM-IV criteria combined with scales and a psychoeducational assessment. In 63.89% of patients, pharmacotherapy was used in combination with psychoeducational interventions. The most frequently used drug was methylphenidate (88.88%). Side effects were reported by 25.25%.There were comorbidities in 45.37% (learning disorders in 27.12%). Conclusion: we found a low prevalence of ADHD, but the biases and limitations of the study must be taken into account. The establishment of a standardised protocol for the diagnosis and management of ADHD would be important to ensure accurate documentation and avoid under- or over diagnosis. Twenty-eight percent of patients were followed up by primary care paediatricians (AU)

Prescripción de ácidos alendrónico y risedrónico en varones: uso fuera de la ficha técnica en un área de salud / Prescription of alendronate and risedronate in men: off-label use in a health area

Fundamento y objetivo. El ácido alendrónico y ácido risedrónico son eficaces y seguros para la osteoporosis del varón, pero solo el ácido risedrónico recoge esta indicación en su ficha técnica. Compararemos su uso en ambos sexos. Pacientes y métodos. Estudio descriptivo retrospectivo de prescripciones de ácido risedrónico y alendrónico en 2012 en atención primaria en el área noroeste de la Comunidad de Madrid. Comparamos la proporción de pacientes y dosis diarias definidas (DDD) dispensadas según género. Resultados. Catorce mil ochocientos cincuenta y siete pacientes utilizaron 1.847.370 de DDD de alendronato y risedronato, 1.145 (7,7%) varones. En mujeres, alendronato fue un 10% más prescrito que risedronato (55% vs. 45%). En varones, el risedronato fue el preferido, 47,6% vs. 52,4%, con una diferencia estadísticamente significativa (p < 0,001). Conclusiones. El ácido risedrónico es preferido al alendrónico en varones, que se utiliza a menudo fuera de ficha técnica a pesar de existir alternativas (AU)

Background and objective: Alendronate and risedronate are both effective and safe treatments for osteoporosis in men, but only risedronate has this indication in its data-sheet. We compared their use by gender. Patient and methods: Retrospective descriptive study of prescriptions of risedronate and alendronate in 2012 in primary care in the northwest area of the Community of Madrid. We compared patients and defined daily doses (DDD) dispensed by gender. Results: 14.857 patients used 1.847.370 DDD of alendronate or risedronate, 1.145 (7.7%) patients were men. In women alendronate was most prescribed (55% vs. 45%) than risedronate. Risedronate was preferred in men, 47.6% vs. 52.4%, resulting in a statistically significant difference (P<.001). Conclusions: Risedronate is preferred to alendronate in men, which is often used off-label, despite the existence of alternatives (AU)

Prescription of alendronate and risedronate in men: off-label use in a health area.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Alendronate and risedronate are both effective and safe treatments for osteoporosis in men, but only risedronate has this indication in its data-sheet. We compared their use by gender. PATIENT AND METHODS: Retrospective descriptive study of prescriptions of risedronate and alendronate in 2012 in primary care in the northwest area of the Community of Madrid. We compared patients and defined daily doses (DDD) dispensed by gender. RESULTS: 14.857 patients used 1.847.370 DDD of alendronate or risedronate, 1.145 (7.7%) patients were men. In women alendronate was most prescribed (55% vs. 45%) than risedronate. Risedronate was preferred in men, 47.6% vs. 52.4%, resulting in a statistically significant difference (P<.001). CONCLUSIONS: Risedronate is preferred to alendronate in men, which is often used off-label, despite the existence of alternatives.

Oral versus intramuscular administration of vitamin B12 for the treatment of patients with vitamin B12 deficiency: a pragmatic, randomised, multicentre, non-inferiority clinical trial undertaken in the primary healthcare setting (Project OB12).

BACKGROUND: The oral administration of vitamin B12 offers a potentially simpler and cheaper alternative to parenteral administration, but its effectiveness has not been definitively demonstrated. The following protocol was designed to compare the effectiveness of orally and intramuscularly administered vitamin B12 in the treatment of patients ≥65 years of age with vitamin B12 deficiency. METHODS/DESIGN: The proposed study involves a controlled, randomised, multicentre, parallel, non-inferiority clinical trial lasting one year, involving 23 primary healthcare centres in the Madrid region (Spain), and patients ≥65 years of age. The minimum number of patients required for the study was calculated as 320 (160 in each arm). Bearing in mind an estimated 8-10% prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency among the population of this age group, an initial sample of 3556 patients will need to be recruited. Eligible patients will be randomly assigned to one of the two treatment arms. In the intramuscular treatment arm, vitamin B12 will be administered as follows: 1 mg on alternate days in weeks 1 and 2, 1 mg/week in weeks 3-8,and 1 mg/month in weeks 9-52. In the oral arm, the vitamin will be administered as: 1 mg/day in weeks 1-8 and 1 mg/week in weeks 9-52. The main outcome variable to be monitored in both treatment arms is the normalisation of the serum vitamin B12 concentration at weeks 8, 26 and 52; the secondary outcome variables include the serum concentration of vitamin B12 (in pg/ml), adherence to treatment, quality of life (EuroQoL-5D questionnaire), patient 3satisfaction and patient preferences. All statistical tests will be performed with intention to treat and per protocol. Logistic regression with random effects will be used to adjust for prognostic factors. Confounding factors or factors that might alter the effect recorded will be taken into account in analyses. DISCUSSION: The results of this study should help establish, taking quality of life into account, whether the oral administration of vitamin B12 is an effective alternative to its intramuscular administration. If this administration route is effective, it should provide a cheaper means of treating vitamin B12 deficiency while inducing fewer adverse effects. Having such an alternative would also allow patient preferences to be taken into consideration at the time of prescribing treatment. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This trial has been registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT 01476007, and under EUDRACT number 2010-024129-20.

Investigación y protección de datos personales en atención primaria / Research and protection of personal data in Primary Care

La investigación es una de las funciones básicas que debe desarrollarse en atención primaria. La información clínica almacenada en distintos registros y que deriva de la atención médica constituye una herramienta fundamental para esta actividad. El uso de los datos de carácter personal con fines de investigación está legitimado por nuestra legislación, sin embargo, esta información debe ser tratada de forma confidencial en todo momento. Para esto, se ofrecen dos alternativas, o bien la obtención del consentimiento informado del paciente o bien el tratamiento disociado de la información. Pero, en algunos supuestos, el cumplimiento de las exigencias legales a la hora de obtener datos para investigar se hace realmente difícil, planteándose una serie de dificultades que en muchos casos imposibilita el desarrollo de la investigación. En este documento marcaremos una orientación sobre el acceso a la información contenida en registros, respetando los derechos de los pacientes y la legislación vigente(AU)

Research is one of the fundamental functions that have to be carried out in Primary Care. The clinical information stored in different records arising from medical care is a basic tool for this activity. The use of personal data for the purposes of research is legitimate according to our laws; however, this information must be treated confidentially at all times. Two alternatives are available for this. One is to obtain the informed consent of the patient, and the other is to dissociate the handling of the information. But in some situations, the compliance to legal demands when obtaining data for research is not easy, there being a series of obstacles which in many cases makes it impossible to carry out research. In this article, we will give guidance on how to access the information contained in records while respecting the rights of the patient and the current legislation(AU)

[Research and protection of personal data in Primary Care]. / Investigación y protección de datos personales en atención primaria.

Research is one of the fundamental functions that have to be carried out in Primary Care. The clinical information stored in different records arising from medical care is a basic tool for this activity. The use of personal data for the purposes of research is legitimate according to our laws; however, this information must be treated confidentially at all times. Two alternatives are available for this. One is to obtain the informed consent of the patient, and the other is to dissociate the handling of the information. But in some situations, the compliance to legal demands when obtaining data for research is not easy, there being a series of obstacles which in many cases makes it impossible to carry out research. In this article, we will give guidance on how to access the information contained in records while respecting the rights of the patient and the current legislation.

EDUCORE project: a clinical trial, randomised by clusters, to assess the effect of a visual learning method on blood pressure control in the primary healthcare setting.

BACKGROUND: High blood pressure (HBP) is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). European hypertension and cardiology societies as well as expert committees on CVD prevention recommend stratifying cardiovascular risk using the SCORE method, the modification of lifestyles to prevent CVD, and achieving good control over risk factors. The EDUCORE (Education and Coronary Risk Evaluation) project aims to determine whether the use of a cardiovascular risk visual learning method--the EDUCORE method--is more effective than normal clinical practice in improving the control of blood pressure within one year in patients with poorly controlled hypertension but no background of CVD; METHODS/DESIGN: This work describes a protocol for a clinical trial, randomised by clusters and involving 22 primary healthcare clinics, to test the effectiveness of the EDUCORE method. The number of patients required was 736, all between 40 and 65 years of age (n = 368 in the EDUCORE and control groups), all of whom had been diagnosed with HBP at least one year ago, and all of whom had poorly controlled hypertension (systolic blood pressure >or= 140 mmHg and/or diastolic >or= 90 mmHg). All personnel taking part were explained the trial and trained in its methodology. The EDUCORE method contemplates the visualisation of low risk SCORE scores using images embodying different stages of a high risk action, plus the receipt of a pamphlet explaining how to better maintain cardiac health. The main outcome variable was the control of blood pressure; secondary outcome variables included the SCORE score, therapeutic compliance, quality of life, and total cholesterol level. All outcome variables were measured at the beginning of the experimental period and again at 6 and 12 months. Information on sex, age, educational level, physical activity, body mass index, consumption of medications, change of treatment and blood analysis results was also recorded; DISCUSSION: The EDUCORE method could provide a simple, inexpensive means of improving blood pressure control, and perhaps other health problems, in the primary healthcare setting; TRIAL REGISTRATION: The trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01155973 [http://ClinicalTrials.gov].

[Community outbreak of hepatitis A in a marginal population. Vaccination for its control and acceptance of the measure]. / Brote comunitario de hepatitis A en un poblado marginal. Vacunación para su control y aceptación de la medida.

OBJECTIVE: To study a community outbreak of hepatitis A in a marginal population and the public health response in order to bring it under control. DESIGN: Descriptive study of the outbreak that occurred in February-June, 2004. An epidemiological survey was conducted to detect prior cases and active vigilance was set up. Case and susceptibility definitions were established. SETTING: A gypsy population in Madrid, Spain. They had basic provision of sewerage, water supply and waste disposal. PARTICIPANTS: A population of 550 in census; estimated population, 800. 70% were under 40 and 55% were illiterate. INTERVENTIONS: Control measures were: a) health education activities to strengthen habits of hygiene, and b) immunisation of susceptible individuals. A total of 646 people were vaccinated, with the active help of staff from the Institute of Rehousing and Integration into Society. RESULTS: The outbreak affected 26 people, with an average age of 8 (95% CI, 6.2-9.8), similar distribution by sex and 3.3% attack rate. Fourteen cases were students at state schools, not all in the same classes. There were 7 pairs of siblings among the cases. The diagnosis was conformed by serology in 17 cases. Five needed hospital admission. CONCLUSIONS: The epidemic curve suggested person-person transmission. All those affected were under 20 years old. Vaccination was seen to be effective in controlling the outbreak. Interventions were assisted by intermediaries in order to respect the gypsies' cultural context and were well accepted.

Brote comunitario de hepatitis A en un poblado marginal. Vacunación para su control y aceptación de la medida / Community outbreak of hepatitis A in a marginal population. Vaccination for its control and acceptance of the measure

Objetivo. Estudio de un brote comunitario de hepatitis A en un poblado marginal y respuesta de salud pública para su control. Diseño. Estudio descriptivo del brote ocurrido entre febrero y junio de 2004. Se realizó una encuesta epidemiológica para detectar casos previos y se instauró una vigilancia activa. Se establecieron las definiciones de caso y de paciente susceptible. Emplazamiento. Poblado de etnia gitana en Madrid. Dispone de dotaciones básicas de saneamiento sanitario, abastecimiento de agua y eliminación de residuos. Participantes. Población censada, 550 personas; población estimada, 800 personas. El 70% es menor de 40 años y el 55% es analfabeto. Intervenciones. Las medidas de control fueron: a) actividades de educación sanitaria para reforzar los hábitos higiénicos, y b) inmunización de las personas susceptibles. Se vacunó a un total de 646 personas, con la colaboración activa del personal del Instituto de Realojo e Inserción Social. Resultados. El brote ha afectado a 26 personas, con una media de edad de 8 años (intervalo de confianza del 95%, 6,2-9,8), similar distribución según el sexo y con una tasa ataque del 3,3%. Catorce casos son alumnos de colegios públicos, sin agregación por aulas. Entre los casos había 7 parejas de hermanos. El diagnóstico se confirmó por serología en 17 casos. Cinco necesitaron hospitalización. Conclusiones. La curva epidémica señala una transmisión persona-persona. Todos los enfermos son menores de 20 años. La vacunación ha mostrado ser una medida eficaz en el control del brote. Las intervenciones se realizaron con la colaboración de mediadores para respetar su contexto cultural y fueron bien aceptadas

Objective. To study a community outbreak of hepatitis A in a marginal population and the public health response in order to bring it under control. Design. Descriptive study of the outbreak that occurred in February-June, 2004. An epidemiological survey was conducted to detect prior cases and active vigilance was set up. Case and susceptibility definitions were established. Setting. A gypsy population in Madrid, Spain. They had basic provision of sewerage, water supply and waste disposal. Participants. A population of 550 in census; estimated population, 800. 70% were under 40 and 55% were illiterate. Interventions. Control measures were: a) health education activities to strengthen habits of hygiene, and b) immunisation of susceptible individuals. A total of 646 people were vaccinated, with the active help of staff from the Institute of Rehousing and Integration into Society. Results. The outbreak affected 26 people, with an average age of 8 (95% CI, 6.2-9.8), similar distribution by sex and 3.3% attack rate. Fourteen cases were students at state schools, not all in the same classes. There were 7 pairs of siblings among the cases. The diagnosis was conformed by serology in 17 cases. Five needed hospital admission. Conclusions. The epidemic curve suggested person-person transmission. All those affected were under 20 years old. Vaccination was seen to be effective in controlling the outbreak. Interventions were assisted by intermediaries in order to respect the gypsies' cultural context and were well accepted

[Tuberculosis and immigration in a health sanitary area in Madrid, Spain. Trends in 1994-2003]. / Tuberculosis e inmigración en un área sanitaria de Madrid. Situación epidemiológica y evolución en la década 1994-2003.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To describe trends and epidemiological characteristics of immigrant and native populations with tuberculosis. POPULATION AND METHOD: Population-based, descriptive analysis of case data reported to the Regional Registry of Tuberculosis Cases from 1994 to 2003 living in the south of Madrid, Spain (755,202 inhabitants). RESULTS: The number of cases reported was 2211, of which 269 (12.1%) were foreign-born persons. Tuberculosis incidence declined from 46.6/100,000 in 1994 (2.9% immigrants) to 25.2/100,000 in 2003 (35.8% immigrants) (p < 0.001). Foreign-born persons with tuberculosis had come to Spain from Latin America-Caribbean (56%), Africa (30%) and Europe (11%). Of the foreign-born, 73.6% developed active tuberculosis within 5 years of arrival (50.9% within 2 years). CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of tuberculosis has declined in the study area but the tendency to decrease has come to a halt because of cases occurring among immigrants. Among those for whom the date of Spain entry was known, a half arrived 2 years or less prior to the diagnosis of tuberculosis. We stress that tuberculosis control programs must target such at-risk population.

Tuberculosis e inmigración en un área sanitaria de Madrid. Situación epidemiológica y evolución en la década 1994-2003 / Tuberculosis and immigration in a health sanitary area in Madrid, Spain. Trends in 1994-2003

Fundamento y objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio es cuantificar el aumento de tuberculosis importada y comparar las características clinicoepidemiológicas entre inmigrantes y autóctonos. Población y método: Estudio descriptivo poblacional de casos diagnosticados en Madrid (Área 11, 755.202 habitantes), en el período 1994-2003. La fuente de datos utilizada fue el Registro Regional de Casos de Tuberculosis. Resultados: Se notificaron 2.211 casos, 269 (12,1%) correspondían a inmigrantes. La tasa de incidencia pasó de 46,6/100.000 en 1994 (2,9% inmigrantes) a 25,2/100.000 en 2003 (35,8% inmigrantes) (p < 0,001). Los inmigrantes procedían de América Latina-Caribe (56%), África (30%) y Europa (11%). El 73,6% desarrolló tuberculosis en el primer quinquenio de estancia (un 50,9% en el primer bienio). Conclusiones: Se evidencia una tendencia decreciente en la incidencia global de tuberculosis, con disminución en la población autóctona y aumento en la población inmigrante. La mitad de los pacientes inmigrantes enferman en los 2 primeros años

Background and objective: To describe trends and epidemiological characteristics of immigrant and native populations with tuberculosis. Population and method: Population-based, descriptive analysis of case data reported to the Regional Registry of Tuberculosis Cases from 1994 to 2003 living in the south of Madrid, Spain (755,202 inhabitants). Results: The number of cases reported was 2211, of which 269 (12.1%) were foreign-born persons. Tuberculosis incidence declined from 46.6/100,000 in 1994 (2.9% immigrants) to 25.2/100,000 in 2003 (35.8% immigrants) (p < 0,001). Foreign-born persons with tuberculosis had come to Spain from Latin America-Caribbean (56%), Africa (30%) and Europe (11%). Of the foreign-born, 73.6% developed active tuberculosis within 5 years of arrival (50.9% within 2 years). Conclusions: The incidence of tuberculosis has declined in the study area but the tendency to decrease has come to a halt because of cases occurring among immigrants. Among those for whom the date of Spain entry was known, a half arrived 2 years or less prior to the diagnosis of tuberculosis. We stress that tuberculosis control programs must target such at-risk population

Evaluacion de la adecuación del ingreso y alta hospitalarios en un Área de Urgencias / Evaluation of appropiateness on admission and discharge in an emergency area

OBJETIVO: Valorar la adecuación de ingresos y altas hospitalarias de un área de urgencias analizando su relación con diversas variables. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se evaluó la adecuación del ingreso y alta, aplicando el Appropriateness Evaluation Protocol (AEP) retrospectivamente a una muestra representativa de pacientes atendidos en urgencias en Junio/1998. RESULTADOS: En las altas, el acuerdo encontrado entre el AEP y el juicio médico fue del 96,43 por ciento. El 2,4 por ciento de las altas fueron inadecuadas. Los pacientes a los que se les solicitó alguna prueba, presentaron una inadecuación significativamente mayor (p=0,01). La inadecuación de solicitud de pruebas complementarias actúa como factor independiente de protección para el ingreso inadecuado. CONCLUSIONES: Los resultados obtenidos son aceptables, si bien, deben realizarse estudios de evaluación para identificar problemas y adoptar las correspondientes estrategias de mejora (AU)