Covid-19 vaccination: a mixed methods analysis of health system resilience in Latin America.

BACKGROUND: This paper discusses the stages of health system resilience (HSR) and the factors underlying differences in HSR during the covid-19 pandemic, especially the vaccination challenge. We studied the relationship between vaccination strategies and macro-context backgrounds in 21 Latin American countries. Our objective was to capture the impact of those aspects in the SR and identify potential improvements for future crises and for vaccination programs in general. METHODS: The study uses mixed-methods research to provide insights into how the countries' backgrounds and vaccination strategies impact the HSR. Particularly, we used explanatory sequential mixed methods, which entails a quantitative-qualitative two-phase sequence. The quantitative phase was conducted using cluster and variance analysis, in which the HSR was measured using as a proxy the covid-19 vaccination outcomes in three cut-offs of reaching 25%, 50%, and 75% of population coverage. This approach allows us to discriminate covid-19 vaccination progress by stages and contrast it to the qualitative stage, in which we performed a country-case analysis of the background conditions and the changes in vaccination strategies that occurred during the corresponding dates. RESULTS: The paper provides a rich comparative case analysis of countries, classifying them by early, prompt, and delayed performers. The results show that differences in vaccination performance are due to flexibility in adapting strategies, cooperation, and the ability to design multilevel solutions that consider the needs of various actors in the health ecosystem. These differences vary depending on the vaccination stage, which suggests the importance of acknowledging learning, diffusion, and feedback processes at the regional level. CONCLUSIONS: We identified the importance of societal well-being as an ideal country antecedent for high and sustained levels of performance in covid-19 vaccination. Whereas in other countries where the set-up and beginning phases were rough, the value of the operational decisions and the learning on the move regarding their own and their peers' trajectories were crucial and were reflected in performance improvement. A contribution of this study is that the above-mentioned analysis was done using vaccination coverage cut-off points that allow a performance view that takes into consideration the stages of the vaccination progress and the learning process that goes with it. As well as framing this into the HSR shock cycles that allow to differentiate the stages of resilience on which countries must act.

Impact of the armed conflict in Colombia: consequences in the health system, response and challenges.

INTRODUCTION: In Colombia, research on health and conflict has focused on mental health, psychosocial care, displacement, morbidity, and mortality. Few scientific studies have assessed health system functioning during armed conflicts. In a new period characterized by the implementation of the peace agreement with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) armed group, understanding the effects of armed conflict on the health system, the functions, and institutions shaped by the conflict is an opportunity to understand the pathways and scope of post-conflict health policy reforms. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the effects of armed conflict on the health system, response, and mechanisms developed to protect medical missions during armed conflict in Colombia. METHODS: This research was conducted using a qualitative approach with semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The qualitative guide collected information in four sections: (1) conflict and health system, effects and barriers in health service provision, (2) actions and coordination to cope with those barriers, (3) health policies and armed conflict, and (4) post-accord and current situation. Twenty-two people participated in the interviews, including eight policymakers at the national level and seven at the local level, including two NGOs and five members of international organizations. An academic project event in December 2019 and four focus groups were developed (World Cafe technique) to discuss with national and local stakeholders the effects of armed conflict on the health system and an analytical framework to analyze its consequences. RESULTS: The conflict affected the health-seeking behavior of the population, limited access to healthcare provision, and affected health professionals, and was associated with inadequate medical supplies in conflict areas. The health system implemented mechanisms to protect the medical mission, regulate healthcare provision in conflict areas, and commit to healthcare provision (mental and physical health services) for the population displaced by conflict. CONCLUSION: The state's presence, trust, and legitimacy have significantly reduced in recent years. However, it is crucial to restore them by ensuring that state and health services are physically present in all territories, including remote and rural areas.

Mental health disorders in population displaced by conflict in Colombia: Comparative analysis against the National Mental Health Survey 2015.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Colombia is one of the countries with the highest levels of internal displacement resulting from armed conflict. This population has greater chances of experiencing a mental health disorder, especially in territories historically affected by armed conflict. Our objective was to compare the levels of possible mental health disorder in people experiencing internal displacement in Meta, Colombia, a department historically affected by armed conflict, compared to the internally displaced population in the National Mental Health Survey of 2015. METHODS: Analysis of data collected in the National Mental Health Survey (ENSM) of 2015, study with representative data at national level and the Conflict, Peace and Health survey (CONPAS) of 2014, representative study of the degree of impact of the conflict on the municipality, conducted in the department of Meta, Colombia. To measure possible mental health disorder, the Self-Report Questionnaire-25 (SRQ-25) was used. Internal displacement is self-reported by people surveyed in both studies. An exploratory analysis is used to measure possible mental health disorders in the displaced population in the ENSM 2015 and CONPAS 2014. RESULTS: 1089 adults were surveyed in CONPAS 2014 and 10,870 adults were surveyed in the ENSM 2015. 42.9% (468) and 8.7% (943) of people reported being internally displaced in CONPAS 2014 and ENSM 2015, respectively. In both studies, internally displaced populations have greater chances of experiencing any mental health disorder compared to non-displaced populations. For CONPAS 2014, 21.8% (95%CI, 18.1-25.8) of this population had a possible mental health disorder (SRQ+) compared to 14.0% (95%CI, 11.8-16.3) in the ENSM 2015. Compared with the ENSM 2015, at the regional level (CONPAS 2014), displaced people had a greater chance of presenting depression by 12.4% (95%CI, 9.5-15.7) compared to 5.7% (95%CI, 4.3-7.4) in the ENSM 2015, anxiety in 21.4% (95%CI, 17.7-25.3) compared to 16.5% (95%CI, 14.2-19.1) in the ENSM 2015, and psychosomatic disorders in 52.4% (95%CI, 47.5-56.7) in CONPAS 2014 compared to 42.2% (95%CI, 39.0-45.4) in the ENSM 2015. At the national level (ENSM 2015), displaced people had greater possibilities of presenting, compared to the regional level, suicidal ideation in 11.9% (95%CI, 9.3-14.1) compared to 7.3% (95%CI, 5.0-10.0) in CONPAS 2014 and bipolar disorder in 56.5% (95%CI, 53.2-59.7) compared to 39.3% (95%CI, 34.8-43.9) in CONPAS 2014. CONCLUSIONS: The greater possibilities of displaced populations at the regional level of experiencing a mental health disorder, compared to this same population at the national level, may represent and indicate greater needs in mental health care services in territories affected by conflict. Therefore, and given the need to facilitate access to health services in mental health for populations especially affected by armed conflict, there is a need to design health care policies that facilitate the recovery of populations affected by war and, simultaneously, that reduce inequities and promote the fulfilment of one of the most important and, at the same time, least prioritised health objectives in international development: mental health.

Access to health services during the Colombian armed conflict: a challenge for the population with disabilities in the department of Meta.

BACKGROUND: The Colombian armed conflict has left millions of victims and has restricted access to different services provided by the government, especially for people with disabilities. This article studies the barriers faced by the victim population with disabilities when they want to access the health system in the department of Meta, Colombia, and offers a perspective from the experiences of people with disabilities who have been victims of the armed conflict in the country. METHODS: To carry out this qualitative study, focus groups were conducted to capture the experiences and feelings of this population in the context of violence and high conflict. RESULTS: The results show the barriers encountered by the victim population with disabilities, their families, and their caregivers when they want to access medical or health services. CONCLUSIONS: Many problems affect the population with disabilities and the victim population in Colombia today. The Colombian government has not been able to establish adequate policies to eliminate or even reduce access to services such as health, education, housing, and social protection.

Trastornos de salud mental en población desplazada por el conflicto en Colombia: análisis comparado frente a la Encuesta Nacional de Salud Mental 2015

Introducción y objetivos: Colombia es uno de los países del mundo con mayor volumen de desplazamiento interno a causa de un conflicto armado interno. Esta población tiene mayores posibilidades de sufrir un trastorno de salud mental, sobre todo en territorios afectados históricamente por el conflicto. El objetivo es comparar la prevalencia de posibles trastornos de la salud mental entre las personas en condición de desplazamiento en Meta, departamento de Colombia históricamente afectado por el conflicto armado, frente a población desplazada en todo el país según la Encuesta Nacional de Salud Mental (ENSM) de 2015. Métodos: Análisis de datos recolectados en la ENSM 2015, estudio a escala nacional, y la encuesta Conflicto, Salud y Paz (CONPAS) de 2014, estudio representativo del grado de afectación por el conflicto en el municipio, realizado en el departamento del Meta. Para medir un posible trastorno de la salud mental, se utiliza el Self Report Questionnaire-25 (SRQ-25). La condición de desplazamiento fue declarada por los encuestados en ambos estudios. Se hizo un análisis descriptivo sobre el posible trastorno de la salud mental en la población desplazada de la ENSM 2015 y la CONPAS 2014. Resultados: Se encuestó a 1.089 adultos en la CONPAS 2014 y 10.870 adultos en la ENSM 2015. El 42,9% (468) y el 8,7% (943) de las personas reportaron estar en condición de desplazamiento en la CONPAS 2014 y la ENSM 2015 respectivamente. En ambos estudios, la población desplazada tiene mayores posibilidades de sufrir cualquier trastorno de la salud mental que la población no desplazada. En la CONPAS 2014, el 21,8% (intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC95%], 18,1-25,8) de esta población tenía un posible trastorno de la salud mental (SRQ+) frente al 14,0% (IC95%, 11,8-16,3) en la ENSM 2015. Los encuestados en condición de desplazamiento de la CONPAS 2014 tuvieron mayor probabilidad que los de la ENSM 2015 en depresión -el 12,4% (IC95%, 9,5-15,7) frente al 5,7% (IC95%, 4,3-7,4)-, ansiedad -el 21,4% (IC95%, 17,7-25,3) frente al 16,5% (IC95%, 14,2-19,1)-y trastornos psicosomáticos -el 52,4% (IC95%, 47,5-56,7) frente al 42,2% (IC95%, 39,0-45,4)-. Los desplazados de la ENSM 2015 tenían mayor probabilidad de ideación suicida, el 11,9% (IC95%, 9,3-14,1) frente al 7,3% (IC95%, 5,0-10,0) en la CONPAS 2014, y trastorno bipolar, el 56,5% (IC95%, 53,2-59,7) frente al 39,3% (IC95%, 34,8-43,9). Conclusiones: La mayor probabilidad de trastornos de la salud mental (SRQ+) de la población regional en condición de desplazamiento frente a toda la población nacional en esa condición puede representar una mayor necesidad de servicios de atención en salud mental en los territorios afectados por el conflicto. Así pues, y dada la necesidad de facilitar el acceso y la atención médica en salud mental a poblaciones especialmente afectadas por el conflicto armado, es importante el diseño de políticas de atención en salud que faciliten la recuperación de poblaciones afectadas por la guerra y, simultáneamente, reducir inequidades y promover el cumplimiento de uno de los objetivos en salud más importantes y, a la vez, usualmente menos priorizados en el desarrollo internacional: la salud mental. © 2021 Asociación Colombiana de Psiquiatría. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. Todos los derechos reservados.

Background and objectives: Colombia is one of the countries with the highest levels of internal displacement resulting from armed conflict. This population has greater chances of experiencing a mental health disorder, especially in territories historically affected by armed conflict. Our objective was to compare the levels of possible mental health disorder in people experiencing internal displacement in Meta, Colombia, a department historically affected by armed conflict, compared to the internally displaced population in the National Mental Health Survey of 2015. Methods: Analysis of data collected in the National Mental Health Survey (ENSM) of 2015, study with representative data at national level and the Conflict, Peace and Health survey (CONPAS) of 2014, representative study of the degree of impact of the conflict on the municipality, conducted in the department of Meta, Colombia. To measure possible mental health disorder, the Self-Report Questionnaire - 25 (SRQ-25) was used. Internal displacement is self-reported by people surveyed in both studies. An exploratory analysis is used to measure possible mental health disorders in the displaced population in the ENSM 2015 and CONPAS 2014. Results: 1,089 adults were surveyed in CONPAS 2014 and 10,870 adults were surveyed in the ENSM 2015. 42.9% (468) and 8.7% (943) of people reported being internally displaced in CONPAS 2014 and ENSM 2015, respectively. In both studies, internally displaced populations have greater chances of experiencing any mental health disorder compared to non-displaced populations. For CONPAS 2014, 21.8% (95%CI, 18.1-25.8) of this population had a possible mental health disorder (SRQ+) compared to 14.0% (95%CI, 11.8-16.3) in the ENSM 2015. Compared with the ENSM 2015, at the regional level (CONPAS 2014), displaced people had a greater chance of presenting depression by 12.4% (95%CI, 9.5-15.7) compared to 5.7% (95%CI, 4.3-7.4) in the ENSM 2015, anxiety in 21.4% (95%CI, 17.7-25.3) compared to 16.5% (95%CI, 14.2-19.1) in the ENSM 2015, and psychosomatic disorders in 52.4% (95%CI, 47.5-56.7) in CONPAS 2014 compared to 42.2% (95%CI, 39.0-45.4) in the ENSM 2015. At the national level (ENSM 2015), displaced people had greater possibilities of presenting, compared to the regional level, suicidal ideation in 11.9% (95%CI, 9.3-14.1) compared to 7.3% (95%CI, 5.0-10.0) in CONPAS 2014 and bipolar disorder in 56.5% (95%CI, 53.2-59.7) compared to 39.3% (95%CI, 34.8-43.9) in CONPAS 2014. Conclusions: The greater possibilities of displaced populations at the regional level of experiencing a mental health disorder, compared to this same population at the national level, may represent and indicate greater needs in mental health care services in territories affected by conflict. Therefore, and given the need to facilitate access to health services in mental health for populations especially affected by armed conflict, there is a need to design health care policies that facilitate the recovery of populations affected by war and, simultaneously, that reduce inequities and promote the fulfilment of one of the most important and, at the same time, least prioritised health objectives in international development: mental health.

Community-Based Knowledge Translation Strategies for Maternal, Neonatal, and Perinatal Outcomes: A Systematic Review of Quantitative and Qualitative Data.

Objective: To identify and assess the effect of community-based Knowledge Translation Strategies (KTS) on maternal, neonatal, and perinatal outcomes. Methods: We conducted systematic searches in Medline, Embase, CENTRAL, CINAHL, PsycInfo, LILACS, Wholis, Web of Science, ERIC, Jstor, and Epistemonikos. We assessed the certainty of the evidence of the studies using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) framework. Results: We identified seven quantitative and seven qualitative studies. Quantitative findings suggest that there is a possible effect on reducing maternal mortality (RR 0.65; 95% CI, 0.48-0.87; moderate evidence certainty); neonatal mortality (RR 0.79; 95% CI 0.70-0.90; moderate evidence certainty); and perinatal mortality (RR 0.84; 95% CI 0.77-0.91; moderate evidence certainty) in women exposed to KTS compared to those who received conventional interventions or no intervention at all. Analysis of qualitative studies identified elements that allowed to generate benefit effects in improving maternal, neonatal, and perinatal outcomes. Conclusion: The KTS in maternal, neonatal, and perinatal outcomes might encourage the autonomy of communities despite that the certainty of evidence was moderate.

¿A quiénes se cuenta? Narrativas sobre las métricas en salud de la población migrante venezolana en una zona de frontera en Colombia / Quem é contado? Narrativas sobre a métrica da saúde da população migrante venezuelana numa zona fronteiriça na Colômbia / Who counts? The health metric narratives of venezuelan migrants on the Colombian border

Resumen Colombia ha sido un país receptor de la migración venezolana originada por la situación sociopolítica del país vecino. Una de las necesidades para dar respuesta a esta crisis es la recolección de datos que permitan visibilizar y monitorear las condiciones de salud de esta población. A partir de un estudio cualitativo centrado en entrevistas y observación etnográfica, el artículo se orienta a caracterizar las variadas dinámicas de inclusión y de exclusión que forman parte de la producción de datos en salud de la población migrante en Cúcuta, un territorio de la frontera colombo-venezolana. A partir de las narrativas de diversos actores que, en el territorio, trabajan directamente en la recolección, el análisis y el uso de datos de salud de la población migrante, el articulo problematiza la construcción de la categoría migrante dentro de las métricas, develando aquello que se visibiliza y aquello que se ignora en el proceso sociotécnico que está detrás de la construcción de estos datos.

Resumo A Colômbia tem sido um país receptor da migração venezuelana devido à situação sociopolítica do país vizinho. Uma das necessidades para responder a esta crise é a coleta de dados que permitam visualizar e monitorizar as condições de saúde desta população. Com base num estudo qualitativo centrado em entrevistas e observação etnográfica, o artigo centra-se na caracterização das diferentes dinâmicas de inclusão e exclusão que fazem parte da produção de dados de saúde sobre a população migrante em Cúcuta, um território fronteiriço colombiano-venezuelano. Com base nas narrativas de vários atores que trabalham diretamente a nível territorial na coleta, análise e utilização de dados de saúde sobre a população migrante, o artigo problematiza a construção da categoria de "migrante" dentro da métrica, revelando o que é visível e o que é ignorado no processo sociotécnico por trás da construção destes dados.

Abstract Colombia has been a destination country of Venezuelan migration originated by the socio-political situation of the neighboring country. One of the needs to respond to this crisis is the collection of data to make visible and monitor the health conditions of this population. Based on a qualitative study centered on interviews and ethnographic observation, the article focuses on characterizing the different inclusion and exclusion dynamics in the production of health data of the migrant population in Cúcuta, a Colombian-Venezuelan border territory. Based on the narratives of various actors who work directly at the territorial level in the collection, analysis and use of health data of the migrant population, the article problematizes the construction of the category of "migrant" within the metrics, revealing what is visible and what is ignored in the socio-technical process behind the construction of these data.

Fertility preferences and unmet need for family planning in women with multiple sclerosis.

Background: Most women with multiple sclerosis (MS) have childbearing potential. Although fertility and pregnancy are not affected by MS, the fertility preferences of women with MS can change due to the risk of complications for the mother and/or adverse pregnancy outcomes resulting from the disease or its treatment. Objectives: To describe fertility preferences (FPs) and their associated factors, to estimate the Unmet Need for Family Planning (UNFP), use of contraceptives, and history of exposure to disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) during pregnancy in women with MS. Methods: In a cross-sectional observational study, a random sample of women with MS were surveyed with the FP subset of the Demographic and Health Survey of Colombia. Factors associated with FP were evaluated through bivariate and logistic regression analysis. The proportion of pregnancies exposed to DMTs, UNFP, and use of contraceptives was estimated. Results: Of the 141 women interviewed, 101 women had childbearing potential, of whom 49 did not want to have children, 38 were sterilized, 33 wanted to have more children, 19 were undecided, and 2 stated they were unable to bear children (menopause or hysterectomy). No MS-related variables were associated with the preference to have more children. Age (OR 0.91; 95% CI 0.84-0.98) and the number of children (OR 0.23; 95% CI 0.09-0.58) decreased the likelihood of desire for children. Of 116 sexually active women, 87.06 % (101) were using contraceptives, and among them, four were using fertility awareness methods and withdrawal. The UNFP was estimated at 6.03% and was not significantly different from the general population. Eighty-two pregnancies were identified, of which 48 occurred after diagnosis, and 25 were exposed to DMTs. Conclusion: Fertility preference in women with MS is not associated with clinical variables. A large proportion of women choose not to have children and prefer to use permanent contraceptive methods. Although the frequency of contraceptive use was high, some women have the UNFP and use low-efficacy contraceptive methods, which may result in unplanned pregnancies.

Social Capital and Lifestyle Impacts on Mental Health in University Students in Colombia: An Observational Study.

Introduction: For young adults, the first year of higher education represents a transition period into adulthood associated with an increased risk of developing depression, anxiety, and stress, contributing to deteriorating physical and mental health. The present study aimed to analyze the relationship between depressive symptoms and social capital and lifestyles among Colombian university students. Methods: In 2020, a longitudinal repeated measures study was conducted on first year students at Universidad de los Andes in Bogota, Colombia. The study was conceptualized and approved by the university before the COVID-19 pandemic appeared. Each student completed a self-administered questionnaire including questions on sociodemographic characteristics, depressive symptoms, perceived stress, social capital, and lifestyles. The study's pilot was conducted in November 2019, and the two measurement points were in January 2020 (wave 1, before the COVID-19 pandemic was declared) and in August 2020 (wave 2, during the COVID-19 pandemic). A binary logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the relationship between depressive symptoms, perceived stress, social capital, and lifestyles. Findings: A total of 609 first year students (response rate = 58.11%) participated in wave 1, and 42% of the participants showed signs of clinically relevant depressive symptoms. In wave 2, despite the difficulties encountered in collecting data due to the COVID-19 pandemic, 216 students from wave 1 participated (35.47%). An increase in a sedentary lifestyle was observed (31.49%). We found that cognitive and behavioral social capital levels decreased by 12.03 and 24.54%, respectively. In addition, we observed a 6.5% increase in students with clinically relevant depressive symptoms compared to wave 1. A low level of behavioral [OR: 1.88; 95% CI (1.16, 3.04)] social capital was associated with clinically relevant depressive symptoms. Conclusion: The health of university students continues to be a public health concern. The study suggests that social capital may play an important role in preventing depressive symptoms. Therefore, universities should put effort into programs that bring students together and promote the creation of social capital.

Health perceptions among victims in post-accord Colombia: Focus groups in a province affected by the armed conflict.

The peace agreement with the Colombian guerrilla group Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia-Ejército del Pueblo represented an opportunity for peacebuilding and victims' reparation, rather than the end of the internal armed conflict. In this context, this study aimed to uncover the consequences of conflict on victims' health and on health service provision, and their perceived health status during the post-accord stage in the Meta region, located in the country's eastern plains. Historically, this region has been one of the territories most affected by the presence of conflict-related groups and armed confrontations. Through focus groups, this research explored the health perceptions and experiences of victims of armed conflict. Ten focus groups were conducted with men and women, victims of the armed-conflict, in four municipalities with different degrees of armed conflict intensity. The focus group transcripts were coded using NVivo. The results show that the way women have experienced conflict and the effects of conflict on mental health in general for men, women, and children were recurrent themes in the dialogue of victims. Likewise, it highlights the need to understand the barriers that the current health model imposes on the right to health itself. From the victim's perspective, they experience stigmatization, discrimination, and revictimization when accessing health services. These barriers co-occur along with structural limitations of the health system that affect the general population.

Health in Conflict Zones: Analyzing Inequalities in Mental Health in Colombian Conflict-Affected Territories.

Objectives: Colombia's civil conflict and persistent socio-economic disparities have contributed to mental health inequalities in conflict-affected territories. We explore the magnitude of mental health inequalities, contributing socio-economic factors, and sociodemographic characteristics that explain these differences. Methods: The study draws on data collected in 2018, using the household survey Conflicto, Paz y Salud (CONPAS) applied to 1,309 households in Meta, Colombia. Logistic regression and decomposition analysis were used to analyze the risk of mental health disorders, measured with the Self-Reporting Questionnaire -20 (SRQ-20). Results: Individuals with lower socio-economic status are at a higher risk for mental health disorders. Forced displacement accounts for 31% of the measured mental health inequalities. Disparities in employment, education level, disability and conflict incidence between municipalities are other contributing factors. Women and people with disabilities are respectively 2.3 and 1.2 times more prone to present a mental health disorder. Conclusion: It is necessary to tackle the identified risk factors and sociodemographic circumstances that contribute to mental health inequalities in conflict-affected territories, as these hinder adequate/equitable access to mental health services.

Inequalities in catastrophic health expenditures in conflict-affected areas and the Colombian peace agreement: an oaxaca-blinder change decomposition analysis.

BACKGROUND: The present study analyzes inequalities in catastrophic health expenditures in conflict-affected regions of Meta, Colombia and socioeconomic factors contributing to the existence and changes in catastrophic expenditures before and after the sign of Colombian Peace Agreement with FARC-EP guerilla group in 2016. METHODS: The study uses the results of the survey Conflicto, Paz y Salud (CONPAS) conducted in 1309 households of Meta, Colombia, a territory historically impacted by armed conflict, for the years 2014 and 2018. We define catastrophic expenditures as health expenditures above 20% of the capacity to pay of a household. We disaggregate the changes in inequalities in catastrophic expenditures through the Oaxaca-Blinder change decomposition method. RESULTS: The incidence of catastrophic expenditures slightly increased between 2014 to 2018, from 29.3 to 30.7%. Inequalities in catastrophic expenditures, measured through concentration indexes (CI), also increased from 2014 (CI: -0.152) to 2018 (CI: -0.232). Results show that differences in catastrophic expenditures between socioeconomic groups are mostly attributed to an increased influence of specific sociodemographic variables such as living in rural zones, being a middle-aged person, living in conflict-affected territories, or presenting any type of mental and physical disability. CONCLUSIONS: Conflict-deescalation and the peace agreement may have facilitated lower-income groups to have access to health services, especially in territories highly impacted by conflict. This, consequently, may have led to higher levels of out-of-pocket expenditures and, therefore, to higher chances of experiencing catastrophic expenditures for lower-income groups in comparison to higher-income groups. Therefore, results indicate the importance of designing policies that guarantee access to health services for people in conflict -affected regions but also, that minimize health care inequalities in out-of-pocket payments that may arouse between people at different socioeconomic groups.

COVID-19 and public transport: an overview and recommendations applicable to Latin America / COVID-19 y transporte público: una revisión y recomendaciones aplicables a América Latina

Abstract The article presents a general overview on COVID-19 transmission in the context of public transport, particularly applicable to decision making in Latin America. Based on recent findings on COVID-19 transmission and the relative importance of each factor (droplets, fomites, and aerosol routes) in such transmission, we seek to update the discussion on the topic that has generally been based on social distance as the only parameter for reducing the risk of transmission and broadens the vision to integrate ventilation, users' behavior (mask and eye protection use, silence while in the transport system) and travel distance. Recommendations to improve mobility conditions reducing the risk of COVID-19 contagion are provided.

Resumen El artículo presenta una revisión de transmisión de COVID-19 en el contexto de transporte público, con aplicación particular para toma de decisiones en América Latina. Con base en los hallazgos recientes sobre transmisión de Covid-19 y la importancia relativa de cada factor (gotículas, fómites y rutas de aerosoles) en dicha transmisión, buscamos actualizar la discusión sobre el tema que generalmente se ha basado en la "distancia social" como parámetro único de reducción de riesgo de transmisión y amplía esta visión para integrar la ventilación, el comportamiento de usuarios (uso de mascarilla, protección ocular, silencio), y la distancia de viaje. Se indican al final recomendaciones para mejorar las condiciones de movilidad en general sin aumentar el riesgo de contagio de Covid-19.

Mental Health Disorders in Population Displaced by Conflict in Colombia: Comparative Analysis against the National Mental Health Survey 2015. / Trastornos de salud mental en población desplazada por el conflicto en Colombia: análisis comparado frente a la Encuesta Nacional de Salud Mental 2015.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Colombia is one of the countries with the highest levels of internal displacement resulting from armed conflict. This population has greater chances of experiencing a mental health disorder, especially in territories historically affected by armed conflict. Our objective was to compare the levels of possible mental health disorder in people experiencing internal displacement in Meta, Colombia, a department historically affected by armed conflict, compared to the internally displaced population in the National Mental Health Survey of 2015. METHODS: Analysis of data collected in the National Mental Health Survey (ENSM) of 2015, study with representative data at national level and the Conflict, Peace and Health survey (CONPAS) of 2014, representative study of the degree of impact of the conflict on the municipality, conducted in the department of Meta, Colombia. To measure possible mental health disorder, the Self-Report Questionnaire - 25 (SRQ-25) was used. Internal displacement is self-reported by people surveyed in both studies. An exploratory analysis is used to measure possible mental health disorders in the displaced population in the ENSM 2015 and CONPAS 2014. RESULTS: 1,089 adults were surveyed in CONPAS 2014 and 10,870 adults were surveyed in the ENSM 2015. 42.9% (468) and 8.7% (943) of people reported being internally displaced in CONPAS 2014 and ENSM 2015, respectively. In both studies, internally displaced populations have greater chances of experiencing any mental health disorder compared to non-displaced populations. For CONPAS 2014, 21.8% (95%CI, 18.1-25.8) of this population had a possible mental health disorder (SRQ+) compared to 14.0% (95%CI, 11.8-16.3) in the ENSM 2015. Compared with the ENSM 2015, at the regional level (CONPAS 2014), displaced people had a greater chance of presenting depression by 12.4% (95%CI, 9.5-15.7) compared to 5.7% (95%CI, 4.3-7.4) in the ENSM 2015, anxiety in 21.4% (95%CI, 17.7-25.3) compared to 16.5% (95%CI, 14.2-19.1) in the ENSM 2015, and psychosomatic disorders in 52.4% (95%CI, 47.5-56.7) in CONPAS 2014 compared to 42.2% (95%CI, 39.0-45.4) in the ENSM 2015. At the national level (ENSM 2015), displaced people had greater possibilities of presenting, compared to the regional level, suicidal ideation in 11.9% (95%CI, 9.3-14.1) compared to 7.3% (95%CI, 5.0-10.0) in CONPAS 2014 and bipolar disorder in 56.5% (95%CI, 53.2-59.7) compared to 39.3% (95%CI, 34.8-43.9) in CONPAS 2014. CONCLUSIONS: The greater possibilities of displaced populations at the regional level of experiencing a mental health disorder, compared to this same population at the national level, may represent and indicate greater needs in mental health care services in territories affected by conflict. Therefore, and given the need to facilitate access to health services in mental health for populations especially affected by armed conflict, there is a need to design health care policies that facilitate the recovery of populations affected by war and, simultaneously, that reduce inequities and promote the fulfilment of one of the most important and, at the same time, least prioritised health objectives in international development: mental health.

Age disparities in unmet need for contraception among all sexually active women in Colombia: Demographic Health Survey 2015.

The Unmet need for contraception increases unintended pregnancies and jeopardizes women's health and reproductive rights. Social determinants are associated with an unmet need for contraception. Still, it is unclear if age is a social determinant of disparities in reproductive health-related outcomes in all Colombian women regardless of marital status. This study used the 2015 Colombian Demographic and Health Survey to determine the unmet need for contraception among 24,245 sexually active women aged 13-49. Age was associated with the unmet need for contraception using a multivariate analysis. Absolute and relative inequalities were estimated using differences in prevalence and odds ratios, respectively. The prevalence of unmet need for contraception was significantly higher in married women aged 13-19 years old (19.8%) than their unmarried counterparts (16.8%), and all older age groups either married or unmarried. Women 13-19 years old [OR = 2.98 (2.49-3.57)] and 20-29 years old [OR = 1.71(1.48-1.97)] are more likely to have an unmet need for contraception than those 40-49 years old. Age disparities are barriers to attaining the Sustainable Development Goals for sexual and reproductive health. Cultural, social, and access barriers demand societies to tailor health care services to meet younger women's needs to narrow the age gap.

Association of education level with diabetes prevalence in Latin American cities and its modification by city social environment.

BACKGROUND: Diabetes prevalence continues to increase in urban areas of low-income and middle-income countries (LMIC). Evidence from high-income countries suggests an inverse association between educational attainment and diabetes, but research in LMIC is limited. We investigated educational differences in diabetes prevalence across 232 Latin American (LA) cities, and the extent to which these inequities vary across countries/cities and are modified by city socioeconomic factors. METHODS: Using harmonised health survey and census data for 110 498 city dwellers from eight LA countries, we estimated the association between education and diabetes. We considered effect modification by city Social Environment Index (SEI) as a proxy for city-level development using multilevel models, considering heterogeneity by sex and country. RESULTS: In women, there was an inverse dose-response relationship between education and diabetes (OR: 0.80 per level increase in education, 95% CI 0.75 to 0.85), consistent across countries and not modified by SEI. In men, Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Chile and Mexico showed an inverse association (pooled OR: 0.92; 95% CI 0.86 to 0.99). Peru, Panama and El Salvador showed a positive relationship (pooled OR 1.24; 95% CI 1.04 to 1.49). For men, these associations were further modified by city-SEI: in countries with an inverse association, it became stronger as city-SEI increased. In countries where the association was positive, it became weaker as city-SEI increased. CONCLUSION: Social inequities in diabetes inequalities increase as cities develop. To achieve non-communicable disease-related sustainable development goals in LMIC, there is an urgent need to develop policies aimed at reducing these educational inequities.

A light of hope? Inequalities in mental health before and after the peace agreement in Colombia: a decomposition analysis.

BACKGROUND: The present study seeks to evaluate the change in mental health inequalities in the department of Meta after the signing of Colombia's Peace Agreement in 2016 with the FARC guerrilla group. Using a validated survey instrument composed of 20 questions ('SRQ-20'), we measure changes in mental health inequalities from 2014, before the signing of the agreement, to 2018, after the signing. We then decompose the changes in inequalities to establish which socioeconomic factors explain differences in mental health inequalities over time. METHODS: Our study uses information from the Conflicto, Salud y Paz (CONPAS) survey conducted in the department of Meta, Colombia, in 1309 households in 2018, with retrospective information for 2014. To measure inequalities, we calculate the concentration indices for both years. Through the Oaxaca change decomposition method, we disaggregate changes in mental health inequalities into its underlying factors. This method allows us to explain the relationship between changes in mental health inequalities and changes in inequalities in several sociodemographic factors. It also identifies the extent to which these factors help explain the changes in mental health inequalities. RESULTS: Mental health inequalities in Meta were reduced almost by half from 2014 to 2018. In 2018, the population at the lower and middle socioeconomic levels had fewer chances of experiencing mental health disorders in comparison to 2014. The reduction in mental health differences is mostly attributed to reductions in the influence of certain sociodemographic variables, such as residence in rural zones and conflict-affected territories, working in the informal sector, or experiencing internal displacement. However, even though mental health inequalities have diminished, overall mental health outcomes have worsened in these years. CONCLUSIONS: The reduction in the contribution of conflict-related variables for explaining mental health inequalities could mean that the negative consequences of conflict on mental health have started to diminish in the short run after the peace agreement. Nevertheless, conflict and the presence of other socioeconomic inequalities still contribute to persistent adverse mental health outcomes in the overall population. Thus, public policy should be oriented towards improving mental health care services in these territories, given the post-accord context.

Association Between Social Pensions With Depression, Social, and Health Behaviors Among Poor Older Individuals in Colombia.

OBJECTIVES: Many low- and middle-income countries have introduced social pensions to alleviate extreme poverty and improve the well-being of older individuals. However, evidence remains inconclusive about the potential effects of such programs on mental health, social, and health behaviors. METHODS: Data for individuals aged 60 or older came from the nationally representative Encuesta Nacional de Salud, Bienestar y Envejeciamiento survey in Colombia 2015 (N = 9,456). We used propensity score matching to estimate the association between the country's social pension program (Colombia Mayor) with depression, self-rated health, food insecurity, alcohol consumption, social participation, and labor force participation. RESULTS: Results show that receiving the program does not significantly affect the likelihood of suffering from depression or self-rated health among either men or women. However, receiving the program is associated with significant reductions in the likelihood of experiencing food insecurity and significant increases in the likelihood of participating socially. Among women, receiving the program is associated with significant reduction in the likelihood of participating in the labor force. DISCUSSION: The absence of a measurable effect on depression and self-rated health may be explained, at least partly, by the program's comparatively small cash benefit and the sharing of resources with other family members. Policymakers should assess possibilities to maximize the health and social benefits of social pensions.

Do the determinants of self-rated health vary among older people with disability, chronic diseases or both conditions in urban Colombia?

Our study aimed to identify the main determinants of self-rated health for individuals aged 60 years or older in Bogotá, Colombia, and if those determinants vary between groups. Data was obtained from the Demographic Health Survey 2011 for Bogotá. Logistic regression models were estimated to identify the determinants of excellent/good self-rated health among people aged 60 years or older living in Bogotá. Moreover, a subgroup analysis was conducted seeking to identify if the determinants changed between groups (men, women, persons with disability, with chronic disease(s), and persons with both disability and chronic disease(s)). The likelihood of reporting an excellent/good self-rated health health decreases when the individual has a disability, a chronic disease or reports that their household income is not enough to cover the basic needs. On the other hand, the odds of reporting excellent/good self-rated health increase when the individual is more educated and reports to receive family support. The subgroup analysis showed that although some determinants are only associated with one group (age with chronic diseases), in general, three main determinants stood out: years of education, socioeconomic status variables and receiving family support. The determinants of self-rated health for older adults in Bogotá differ according to the disability and the chronic disease status. Thus, public policies aiming to improve the levels of health and quality must consider the impacts of those characteristics on individuals' perceptions of their own health.

Do the determinants of self-rated health vary among older people with disability, chronic diseases or both conditions in urban Colombia? / ¿Varían los determinantes de la salud autoevaluada entre las personas ancianas con discapacidad, enfermedades crónicas o ambas condiciones en áreas urbanas de Colombia? / Os determinantes da autopercepção da saúde variam entre idosos com deficiência, com doenças crônicas não transmissíveis ou com ambas condições nas áreas urbanas da Colômbia?

Abstract: Our study aimed to identify the main determinants of self-rated health for individuals aged 60 years or older in Bogotá, Colombia, and if those determinants vary between groups. Data was obtained from the Demographic Health Survey 2011 for Bogotá. Logistic regression models were estimated to identify the determinants of excellent/good self-rated health among people aged 60 years or older living in Bogotá. Moreover, a subgroup analysis was conducted seeking to identify if the determinants changed between groups (men, women, persons with disability, with chronic disease(s), and persons with both disability and chronic disease(s)). The likelihood of reporting an excellent/good self-rated health health decreases when the individual has a disability, a chronic disease or reports that their household income is not enough to cover the basic needs. On the other hand, the odds of reporting excellent/good self-rated health increase when the individual is more educated and reports to receive family support. The subgroup analysis showed that although some determinants are only associated with one group (age with chronic diseases), in general, three main determinants stood out: years of education, socioeconomic status variables and receiving family support. The determinants of self-rated health for older adults in Bogotá differ according to the disability and the chronic disease status. Thus, public policies aiming to improve the levels of health and quality must consider the impacts of those characteristics on individuals' perceptions of their own health.

Resumen: El objetivo fue identificar los determinantes principales de salud autoevaluada en individuos con edades comprendidas entre los 60 años o más en Bogotá, Colombia y si esos determinantes varían entre grupos. Los datos se recabaron de la Encuesta Demográfica sobre Salud de 2011 en Bogotá. Los modelos de regresión logística se estimaron para identificar los determinantes de una excelente/buena salud autoevaluada entre personas con 60 años o mayores, viviendo en Bogotá. Asimismo, se realizó un análisis subgrupo, con el fin de identificar si los determinantes cambiaron entre grupos (hombres, mujeres, personas con discapacidad, con enfermedades crónicas, y personas viviendo con discapacidad y enfermedades crónicas. La probabilidad de informar de una excelente/buena salud autoevaluada decrece cuando la persona sufre una discapacidad, una enfermedad crónica o informa que sus ingresos no son suficientes para cubrir las necesidades básicas. En cambio, las probabilidades de informar sobre una excelente/buena salud autoevaluada se incrementan cuando la persona tiene más formación educacional e informa recibir apoyo familiar. El subgrupo de análisis revela que pese a que algunos determinantes están sólo asociados a un grupo (edad con enfermedades crónicas), en general, fueron importantes tres determinantes: años de educación, variables status socieconómico y recibir apoyo familiar. Los determinantes de salud autoevaluada para las personas mayores en Bogotá varían, dependiendo de la discapacidad y estatus de las enfermedades crónicas. Por tanto, las políticas públicas con el fin de mejorar los niveles de salud y calidad deben considerar los efectos de aquellas características sobre las percepciones individuales de su propia salud.

Resumo: O estudo teve como objetivos identificar os principais determinantes da autopercepção da saúde entre indivíduos com 60 anos ou mais em Bogotá, Colômbia, e averiguar se esses determinantes variam entre grupos. A fonte de dados foi a Pesquisa Nacional de Demografia e Saúde de 2011, para a cidade de Bogotá. Foram estimados modelos de regressão logística para identificar os determinantes da autopercepção da saúde excelente/boa entre pessoas com 60 anos de idade ou mais, residindo em Bogotá. Além disso, foi realizada uma análise de subgrupos com o objetivo de identificar se os determinantes mudaram entre os grupos (homens, mulheres, pessoas com deficiência, com doenças crônicas e pessoas vivendo simultaneamente com deficiência e com doenças crônicas). A probabilidade de relatar autopercepção da saúde excelente/boa diminui quando a pessoa é portadora de deficiência ou doença crônica ou quando a renda domiciliar é insuficiente para atender as necessidades básicas. Enquanto isso, as chances de relatar autopercepção da saúde excelente/boa aumentam quando a pessoa tem maior escolaridade e recebe apoio da família. A análise de subgrupos revelou que, embora alguns determinantes só estejam associados a um grupo (idade e doenças crônicas), de maneira geral, três principais determinantes foram importantes: anos de ensino, condição socioeconômica e apoio familiar. Os determinantes da autopercepção da saúde em idosos residentes em Bogotá variam de acordo com a presença ou ausência de deficiência e doenças crônicas. Portanto, as políticas públicas que procuram melhorar os níveis de saúde e qualidade de vida devem considerar os efeitos dessas características sobre a percepção dos indivíduos em relação à própria saúde.