Association of Meal Timing with Sleep Quality and Anxiety According to Chronotype: A Study of University Students.

There are several determinants of mental health symptoms, ranging from individual characteristics to social factors. Consistent with patterns in the general population, students with evening characteristics tend to exhibit more anxiety symptoms and poorer sleep quality compared to morning students. Meal timing also appears to affect sleep and may be associated with mental health symptoms. In this context, the aim of the present study was to investigate the association of the timing of the main and last meals of the day with sleep quality and anxiety levels, according to the chronotype of university students. This study was conducted in colleges in São Paulo, Brazil, and involved application of a questionnaire to 162 university students. The questionnaire collected sociodemographic information meal and study times, and included scales assessing eveningness and morningness, sleep quality, and anxiety. Students demonstrating a phase delay in both chronotype and dinner timing exhibited higher levels of anxiety compared to morning-type students. Although no associations were observed between meal timing and sleep quality, sleeping later was associated with poorer sleep quality. The study suggests that evening students and those who eat late at night are more prone to presenting mental health symptoms. More studies are needed to further investigate this association.

12-week melatonin administration had no effect on diabetes risk markers and fat intake in overweight women night workers.

Introduction: Interactions between circadian clocks and key mediators of chronic low-grade inflammation associated with fat consumption may be important in maintaining metabolic homeostasis and may pose a risk for the development of obesity-associated comorbidities, especially type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Objective: The aims of the present study were to evaluate the effects of melatonin administration on diabetes risk markers according to dietary lipid profile (pro-inflammatory versus anti-inflammatory) in excessive weight night workers, and to determine the effect of administration on fat consumption profile. Methods: A randomized, controlled, double-blind, crossover clinical trial involving 27 nursing professionals working permanent night shifts under a 12×36-hour system. The melatonin group (12 weeks) used synthetic melatonin (3 mg) only on days off and between shifts, while the placebo group (12 weeks) was instructed to take a placebo, also on days off and between shifts. For inflammatory characteristics, participants were divided into pro-inflammatory (saturated fats, trans fats and cholesterol) and anti-inflammatory (monounsaturated, polyunsaturated fats and EPA + DHA) groups according to fatty acid determinations. At baseline and at the end of each phase, blood glucose, insulin, glycosylated hemoglobin plasma concentrations were collected, and HOMA-IR was calculated. Conclusion: Melatonin administration for 12 weeks had no effect on T2DM risk markers according to dietary lipid profile (pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory potential) in excessive weight night workers. Among the limitations of the study include the fact that the low dose may have influenced the results expected in the hypothesis, and individual adaptations to night work were not evaluated. The insights discussed are important for future research investigating the influence of melatonin and fats considered anti- or pro-inflammatory on glucose and insulin homeostasis related to night work.

Seasonal and Regional Differences in Eating Times in a Representative Sample of the Brazilian Population.

Human food intake and its timing are a complex behavior that can be influenced by a variety of factors, some of which may vary from season to season or from region to region. In this study, our aim was to investigate the seasonal variation in food intake times, with a particular focus on how these may vary across different regions of a country. We conducted an analysis of data from 20,622 adults from the National Household Budget Survey (POF-IBGE), encompassing complete food diaries collected from individuals residing in Brazil, and thereby ensuring representation across different latitudes. Each participant's daily food intake was reported for two non-consecutive days at different times in the same week using food diaries. An ANOVA revealed a later food intake time in the evening in high-latitude regions compared to low-latitude regions. The Sidak post-hoc test showed a significant interaction effect between region and season, demonstrating a pattern of early First Intake Time and Eating Midpoint in the Northeast region during spring/summer. Additionally, we observed an independent effect of the region, as early food intake times were found in low-latitude regions. These findings offer a basis for discussing food intake times among individuals living in different regions located on distinct latitudes.

Ergonomic workplace analysis (EWA) as a model for creating an instrument to assess rest locations for truck drivers.

Introduction: The relationship between sleep quality and rest location is rarely explored in the literature. In this context, ergonomic analysis instruments can contribute with information for a satisfactory rest environment throughout the work schedule. Objectives: To analyze the performance of an instrument based on Ergonomic Workplace Analysis for assessing rest locations. Methods: This study adapted an ergonomic instrument to a new purpose. To analyze its performance, we assessed the rest locations of truck drivers working for a large transportation company located in the state of São Paulo. Results: The variables adapted from the original Ergonomic Workplace Analysis were rest location, sequence of tasks, lighting, noise, indoor comfort, and thermal comfort. Photos and flowcharts were used to better describe the data. Conclusion: The new instrument was shown to be adequate for assessing rest locations. The drivers evaluated the accommodations more positively than the analyst, and truck sleepers and company accommodations were considered different both by the drivers and the analyst.

Introdução: A relação entre a qualidade do sono e o local de descanso é pouco explorada pela literatura. Nesse contexto, os instrumentos de análise ergonômica podem contribuir com informações para um ambiente de descanso satisfatório ao longo das jornadas de trabalho. Objetivos: Analisar o desempenho de um instrumento de avaliação de locais de descanso, desenvolvido a partir da ferramenta ergonomic workplace analysis (análise ergonômica do posto de trabalho). Métodos: O presente estudo se caracteriza por adaptar um instrumento ergonômico para uma nova finalidade. Realizou-se avaliação dos locais de descanso de motoristas de caminhão de uma empresa transportadora de grande porte, localizada no estado de São Paulo. Resultados: As variáveis adaptadas da versão original do ergonomic workplace analysis foram o local de descanso, a sequência de tarefas, a iluminação, o ruído, o conforto interno e o conforto térmico. As fotos e os fluxogramas foram utilizados para melhor descrever os dados. Conclusões: O novo instrumento se mostrou adequado para avaliar locais de descanso. Os motoristas avaliaram mais positivamente os dormitórios do que o analista, sendo que o local de descanso do caminhão e os alojamentos foram considerados distintos tanto para os motoristas quanto para o analista.

Insomnia symptoms during the covid-19 pandemic: a case-control study.

OBJECTIVE: To identify lifestyle-related, sociodemographic, and mental health characteristics of people with insomnia symptoms and people without insomnia during the pandemic. METHODS: A case-control study was conducted with data collected by snowball sampling using an online questionnaire. From November 2020 to April 2021, 6,360 people with a mean age of 43.5 years (SD = 14.3) participated in the survey. For this study, we considered 158 cases of insomnia disorder and 476 controls (three controls per case) randomly selected from the participants without sleep problems. RESULTS: The results of the comparative analysis between cases and controls showed that sleeping less than six hours daily (OR = 3.89; 95%CI 2.50-6.05), feeling sadness frequently (OR = 2.95; 95%CI 1.69-5.17), residing in metropolitan areas (OR = 1.71; 95%CI 1.04-2.84), being 40 years or older (OR = 1.93; 95%CI 1.22-3.06), and the interaction between occupation and poorer education (OR = 2.12; 95%CI 1.22-3.69) were predictors for symptoms of insomnia disorder during the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS: In addition to confirming the hypothesis that mental health problems are associated with insomnia symptoms, the results point to insomnia as an important outcome for studies on the effects of unemployment, vulnerability and low education of the population, especially in large cities, highlighting that the effects of the crisis on health and the economy are extremely unequally distributed.

Insomnia symptoms during the covid-19 pandemic: a case-control study / Sintomas de insônia durante a pandemia de covid-19: um estudo caso-controle

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To identify lifestyle-related, sociodemographic, and mental health characteristics of people with insomnia symptoms and people without insomnia during the pandemic. METHODS A case-control study was conducted with data collected by snowball sampling using an online questionnaire. From November 2020 to April 2021, 6,360 people with a mean age of 43.5 years (SD = 14.3) participated in the survey. For this study, we considered 158 cases of insomnia disorder and 476 controls (three controls per case) randomly selected from the participants without sleep problems. RESULTS The results of the comparative analysis between cases and controls showed that sleeping less than six hours daily (OR = 3.89; 95%CI 2.50-6.05), feeling sadness frequently (OR = 2.95; 95%CI 1.69-5.17), residing in metropolitan areas (OR = 1.71; 95%CI 1.04-2.84), being 40 years or older (OR = 1.93; 95%CI 1.22-3.06), and the interaction between occupation and poorer education (OR = 2.12; 95%CI 1.22-3.69) were predictors for symptoms of insomnia disorder during the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS In addition to confirming the hypothesis that mental health problems are associated with insomnia symptoms, the results point to insomnia as an important outcome for studies on the effects of unemployment, vulnerability and low education of the population, especially in large cities, highlighting that the effects of the crisis on health and the economy are extremely unequally distributed.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Identificar características relacionadas ao estilo de vida, sociodemográficas e saúde mental de pessoas com sintomas de insônia e pessoas sem insônia durante a pandemia. MÉTODOS A partir de dados coletados por amostragem em bola de neve, por meio de um questionário online foi realizado um estudo caso-controle. Durante o período de novembro de 2020 a abril de 2021, 6.360 pessoas com idade média de 43,5 anos (DP = 14,3) participaram da pesquisa. No presente estudo, foram considerados 158 casos de transtorno de insônia e 476 controles (três controles por caso) selecionados aleatoriamente dentre os participantes sem problemas de sono. RESULTADOS Os resultados da análise comparativa entre casos e controles mostraram que dormir menos de seis horas diárias (OR = 3,89; IC95% 2,50-6,05), sentir tristeza frequentemente (OR = 2,95; IC95% 1,69-5,17), residir em metrópoles (OR = 1,71; IC95% 1,04-2,84), estar com 40 anos ou mais (OR = 1,93; IC95% 1,22-3,06) e a interação entre ocupação e escolaridade mais precária (OR = 2,12; IC95% 1,22-3,69) foram fatores preditores para sintomas de transtorno de insônia durante a pandemia. CONCLUSÕES Além da confirmação da hipótese de que problemas de saúde mental estão associados a sintomas de insônia, os resultados apontam para a insônia como um desfecho importante para estudos sobre efeitos do desemprego, vulnerabilidade e baixa escolaridade da população, sobretudo nas grandes metrópoles, ressaltando que os efeitos da crise sobre a saúde e a economia são distribuídos de forma extremamente desiguais.

Evaluation of truck driver rest locations and sleep quality.

Objectives: Truck drivers' work organization requires that rest and sleep be taken in various locations, where sleep quality might be affected by the discomfort of these environments. The purpose of this study was to evaluate truck drivers' rest locations and their association with sleep quality utilizing an ergonomic approach. Material and Methods: The sleep quality of 81 truck drivers was assessed using the Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI). An adapted version of the ergonomics workplace analysis (EWA) instrument was used to evaluate 44 rest locations. Results: Half of the workers preferred sleeper berths (51.2%) as a rest place. Sleep was classified as poor by 71.6% of the drivers. Dorms were rated more positively (p<0.001) by truck drivers (2.0±1.1) than by the analyst (2.6±0.6). Sleeper berths and dorms were rated statistically different by truck drivers (p=0.002), as well as by the analyst (p=0.003). No correlation was found between EWA evaluations and total score for sleep quality. Separate analyses of dorms and truck berths showed very few correlations. The higher the noise of roommates in dorms, the worse the sleep quality. Conversely, noise in corridors or outside the room positively impacted sleep quality. Conclusion: Noise in the rest place may affect sleep in both directions, negatively or positively. Sleep was classified as poor regardless of resting place. The quality of resting places seemed to have little effect on sleep quality of truck drivers. Factors other than rest place, such as work scheduling, are probably more important for promoting good sleep quality.

COVID-19 pandemic is associated with increased sleep disturbances and mental health symptoms but not help-seeking: a cross-sectional nation-wide study.

Objective: This study aimed firstly to describe sleep-related and mental health symptoms before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in a national-wide sample and, secondly, to verify attitudes towards help-seeking to treat these symptoms. Material and Methods: Data were collected through an online questionnaire sent through the Brazilian Sleep Association's social media. The questionnaire included sociodemographic and sleep aspects questions currently and before the pandemic period. In addition, the survey addressed current and previous anxiety, depression, and burnout symptoms. The outcome help-seeking was addressed in the questionnaire as well by a single question asked when the participant reported mental or sleep problems. Results: The study covered 6,360 participants, mean age 43.5 years (SD=14.3), 76.7% female and 63.7% with undergraduate or higher degree filled out the survey. Seventy percent of participants reported sleep disturbances and 80% reported symptoms of anxiety during the pandemic. Help-seeking behavior was found only in one third of them. Hours of sleep reduced from 7.12 to 6.2h, which can be related with the increase in 28.2% of dissatisfaction with sleep duration during the pandemic. The highest frequency of complaints related to sleep was difficulty to fall asleep three or more times a week (going from 27.6% before the pandemic to 58.9% during the pandemic; p<0.001). Moreover, it was observed that help-seeking was more prevalent in men than women, and more in younger participants than in older ones. Conclusion: There was an increase of sleep and mental self-reported problems during the pandemic, which was not followed by help-seeking.

Social Jetlag Is Associated With Impaired Metabolic Control During a 1-Year Follow-Up.

Previous studies have identified social jetlag (SJL) as a risk factor for non-communicable chronic diseases (NCCDs), but its association with metabolic control over time is unclear in the literature. Therefore, we examined the influence of SJL on metabolic parameters and blood pressure (BP) in patients with NCCDs over a 1-year follow-up. This retrospective, longitudinal study included 625 individuals (age: 56.0 +12.0 years; 76% female) with NCCDs [type 2 diabetes mellitus (TD2), systemic arterial hypertension (SHA), obesity, or dyslipidemia]. SJL was calculated based on the absolute difference between mid-sleep time on weekends and weekdays. Current metabolic parameters and BP of the patients were compared with data from a year prior. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) and multiple linear regression analyses were used to examine the association among SJL, metabolic parameters, and BP. Multiple linear regression analyses adjusted for confounders showed that SJL was positively associated with the delta difference of fasting glucose (ß = 0.11, p = 0.02) and triglyceride levels (ß = 0.09, p = 0.04) among all subjects with NCCDs, and with fasting glucose (ß = 0.30, p = 0.0001) and triglyceride levels (ß = 0.22, p = 0.01) in the TD2 group. GEE analysis demonstrated an isolated effect of SJL on diastolic BP. High SJL impaired clinical and metabolic control in individuals with NCCDs, leading to a worse profile after a 1-year follow-up, particularly among type II diabetics.

Circadian misalignment measured by social jetlag from early to late pregnancy and its association with nutritional status: a longitudinal study.

A mismatch between circadian and social clocks leads to a circadian misalignment, which has been widely measured by social jetlag (SJL). There are several studies measuring SJL, but it has not been studied in pregnant women. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the occurrence of SJL throughout pregnancy and to verify whether there is an effect of pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) on SJL throughout pregnancy. The baseline of the present study was conducted with 205 1st trimester pregnant women of whom 100 were followed in their 2nd and 3rd trimester. SJL was calculated based on the absolute difference between mid-sleep time on workdays versus work-free days. The pre-pregnancy BMI and current BMI (kg/m2) were calculated. Linear regression and Generalised Estimating Equation (GEE) adjusted for confounders were used to determine the association between SJL and the gestational trimesters (time), and anthropometric variables. Most of the pregnant women (54.5%) presented SJL > 1 h in the first gestational trimester. We also found an isolated effect of the gestation trimester on the SJL mean. In this sense, pregnant women had a decrease in SJL from the second to the third trimester (1.33 ± 0.08 versus 1.12 ± 0.07, respectively; p = 0.012). GEE analyzes showed that pregnant women of a normal weight showed a decrease in SJL from the second to the third trimester (1.29 ± 0.11 and 0.93 ± 0.08, respectively, p = 0.032), but this was not found in the other groups of nutritional status (underweight, overweight and obesity). In addition, a positive association between SJL and pre-gestational BMI in the third trimester (ß = 0.200, p = 0.046) was found. SJL is quite prevalent during the gestational period and excessive BMI both before and during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of having SJL > 1 h in the third and second trimesters, respectively. In addition, pregnant women of normal weight-but not underweight or overweight-had decreased SJL from the second to the third trimester.

Eating habits, sleep, and a proxy for circadian disruption are correlated with dyslipidemia in overweight night workers.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between proxy for circadian disruption, eating habits, sleep characteristics, and dyslipidemic parameters. METHODS: This was a randomized, double-blind, crossover controlled clinical trial, and for this study, only baseline data were used. The sample was composed of 36 overweight female nurses who worked on a fixed night shift (12 × 36 h). Linear regression models were used to assess the relationship between the mentioned variables. RESULTS: The participants' average age was 39.4 y (Standard error (SE) 1 y) and the average nighttime sleep duration was 5.76 h (SE 0.16 h). The average chronotype indicated a moderate early type (03:03 h; SE 20 min) and the average social jetlag was 03:42 h (SE 10 min). It was found that 1 h less of nighttime sleep increased very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels by 2.75 mg/dL and triacylglyceride levels by 3.62 mg/dL. Additionally, higher social jetlag was associated with higher low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. On the other hand, each additional hour in the chronotype increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels by 3.06 mg/dL and a time interval >2 h between the last meal and sleep onset was associated with higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. CONCLUSION: Short duration of nighttime sleep and high social jetlag are risk factors for dyslipidemia, whereas the late type and the longer time interval between the last meal and sleep onset appear to be protective factors for dyslipidemia.

Eating Duration throughout a Rotating Shift Schedule: A Case Study.

OBJECTIVE: The impact of the rotation between different shifts and free days within a short period of time on the food consumption is poorly addressed in the literature. Our objective was to characterize the eating duration (ED) over 10 d of clockwise rotating and to associate it with the intake of energy and macronutrients. METHODS: Thirty male shift-workers from a mining company were evaluated over a complete rotation shift schedule of 10 consecutive days (2 d of morning shifts, 2 d of afternoon shifts, 24 h free-day, 2 d of night shifts, and three free days). ED was defined as the interval between the first meal after awaking and last meal before sleep onset. Sleep/wake periods and food intake were evaluated by actigraphy and 24 h recalls, respectively. Generalized models were used to analyze the variation in ED and its association with nutrient intake over the shift schedule. RESULTS: ED periods showed significant variations throughout shift rotation and were associated with energy intake. The highest energy intake (3410 ± 235 kcal) and longest ED (20.7 ± 1.2 h) were found on Day 5, the day between afternoon and night shifts, and a part of Day 6 (night shift), i.e., in the longest period of wakefulness and the shortest sleep duration (4.7 ± 0.3 h) (p < 0.05 for all). The lowest energy intake (1284 ± 125 kcal) and shortest ED (4.96 ± 0.7 h) (p < 0.05) occurred after the last night shift (Day 7). The balance between the percentage of macronutrients did not differ statistically between the ED periods. CONCLUSIONS: In general, longer periods of wakefulness showed greater energy intake, demonstrating the tendency of workers to eat around the clock during their shift. Even with the energy intake variation, the balance of macronutrients remained the same over the ED periods. Despite the need of confirmation in future studies, these results suggest that the management of ED period could be considered in the nutritional approach of shift workers.

Academic productivism: when job demand exceeds working time.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the association between the perception of pressure to publish academic work with job satisfaction and stress. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with 64 graduate advisors from a public university in the city of São Paulo. Data collection conducted via an online questionnaire that included: sociodemographic, work and health data; Occupational Stress Indicator Job Satisfaction Scale and Effort-Reward Imbalance (ERI) model. To assess the perception of pressure to publish academic work the advisors answered a numerical scale, assigning a score from 0 to 10 to how pressured they felt to publish their work (being 0 no pressure and 10 high pressure). Later, the generalized linear model was used to test the factors associated to high perception of pressure to publish academic work, adjusted for working time, academic management role and productivity grant. RESULTS: Advisors who had already worked in a higher education institution, who performed part of the work at home and who reported work stress were more likely to show perception of extreme pressure to publish academic work. This perception was associated with greater effort and over-commitment, as well as a greater imbalance between the effort employed and the reward received at work. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that the professors' work organization and mental health are interrelated: the higher the perception of pressure to publish academic work, the greater the stress. However, this result does not seem to be reflected in the job satisfaction (or dissatisfaction). The apparently deliberate extension of working hours hides the precariousness and increased work to which professors have been subjected in recent years by public policies that commercialize education in Brazil.

Academic productivism: when job demand exceeds working time / Produtivismo acadêmico: quando a demanda supera o tempo de trabalho

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: To assess the association between the perception of pressure to publish academic work with job satisfaction and stress. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with 64 graduate advisors from a public university in the city of São Paulo. Data collection conducted via an online questionnaire that included: sociodemographic, work and health data; Occupational Stress Indicator Job Satisfaction Scale and Effort-Reward Imbalance (ERI) model. To assess the perception of pressure to publish academic work the advisors answered a numerical scale, assigning a score from 0 to 10 to how pressured they felt to publish their work (being 0 no pressure and 10 high pressure). Later, the generalized linear model was used to test the factors associated to high perception of pressure to publish academic work, adjusted for working time, academic management role and productivity grant. RESULTS: Advisors who had already worked in a higher education institution, who performed part of the work at home and who reported work stress were more likely to show perception of extreme pressure to publish academic work. This perception was associated with greater effort and over-commitment, as well as a greater imbalance between the effort employed and the reward received at work. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that the professors' work organization and mental health are interrelated: the higher the perception of pressure to publish academic work, the greater the stress. However, this result does not seem to be reflected in the job satisfaction (or dissatisfaction). The apparently deliberate extension of working hours hides the precariousness and increased work to which professors have been subjected in recent years by public policies that commercialize education in Brazil.

RESUMO OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a associação entre a percepção da pressão por publicações com a satisfação e o estresse no trabalho. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com 64 orientadores de pós-graduação de uma universidade pública da cidade de São Paulo. A coleta de dados ocorreu por meio de um questionário on-line que incluiu: dados sociodemográficos, laborais e de saúde; Escala de Satisfação no Trabalho do Occupational Stress Indicator e modelo Desequilíbrio Esforço-Recompensa (DER). Para avaliar a percepção da pressão por publicação foi criada uma escala numérica na qual o orientador deveria atribuir uma nota de 0 a 10 para o quanto se sentia pressionado a publicar seus trabalhos (sendo 0 nenhuma pressão e 10 muita pressão). Posteriormente, foi utilizado o modelo linear generalizado para testar os fatores associados à alta percepção de pressão para publicação, ajustado pelo tempo de trabalho, função de gestão acadêmica e bolsa produtividade. RESULTADOS: Maiores proporções da percepção de elevada pressão para publicação foram encontradas entre orientadores que já haviam trabalhado em instituição de ensino superior, que realizavam parte do trabalho em casa e que apresentavam estresse laboral. Associou-se essa percepção a um maior esforço e comprometimento excessivo no trabalho, bem como a um maior desequilíbrio entre o esforço empregado e a recompensa recebida no trabalho. CONCLUSÕES: Os achados desta pesquisa sugerem que a organização do trabalho e a saúde mental dos trabalhadores estejam inter-relacionados: quanto maior a percepção de pressão por publicação maior o estresse. No entanto, esse resultado parece não se refletir na satisfação (ou insatisfação) do trabalho. O prolongamento aparentemente deliberado das horas de trabalho oculta a precarização e intensificação do trabalho a que os professores têm sido submetidos nos últimos anos pelas políticas públicas que mercantilizam a educação no Brasil.

Aspects of work organization and reduced sleep quality of airline pilots.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence and association of work organization associated with poor sleep quality among airline pilots. METHODS: 1234 airline pilots filled out an online questionnaire. Independent variables included demographic data, work organization aspects, health, and sleep information. A question derived from the Karolinska Sleep Questionnaire was used to obtain subjective sleep quality. Poisson regression with robust variance was performed. RESULTS: The prevalence of poor sleep quality was 48.2%. Poor sleep quality was associated with high frequency of technical delays, ≥ 5 consecutive night shifts, moderate and great need for recovery after work, difficulty commuting to work, being insufficiently physically active and sleeping 6-8 hours and < 6 hours on days off. CONCLUSION: Pilots' daily work schedules, consisting of frequent delays, long working hours and perceived high work demands preventing adequate recovery were associated with poor sleep quality.

Sleep disturbances in older adults are associated to female sex, pain and urinary incontinence. / Problemas de sono em idosos estão associados a sexo feminino, dor e incontinência urinária.

OBJECTIVES: The prevalence of sleep problems in elderly, such as insomnia, is a relevant issue in our society. Poor sleep quality is viewed by many as an inevitable result of aging. In this context, this study aimed to estimate the prevalence and associated factors of sleeping disturbances in elderly men and women (60 years and older). METHODS: The present study is part of SABE Study (Health, Well-being and Aging), a cohort conducted in São Paulo, Brazil. The sample included in the present cross-sectional study comprised 1,334 elderly people aged 60 years or older. Sleep disturbances were assessed based on responses of study participants on whether they had experienced any sleep disturbance in the past month. RESULTS: Among the elderly assessed, 44.9% had overall sleep disturbances, which were more frequent in women (51.5%) and in 75 to 79 years old (48.2%). According to the regression analysis, the variables gender, joint diseases, as well as nocturia and urinary incontinence, were associated with sleep disorders. Increase in sleep disturbances was found not to be linearly age-dependent. CONCLUSIONS: Gender, pain, urinary and nocturia incontinence were factors associated with sleep disorders. Thus, we might conclude that the absence of sleep disturbances in older adults depends on gender and health status.

OBJETIVOS: A prevalência de problemas de sono em idosos, como insônia, é uma questão relevante em nossa sociedade. A má qualidade do sono, por exemplo, é vista por muitos como um resultado inevitável do envelhecimento. Neste contexto, este estudo teve como objetivo estimar a prevalência e os fatores associados a distúrbios do sono em homens e mulheres idosos (60 anos ou mais). MÉTODOS: O presente trabalho é parte do estudo de coorte Saúde, Bem-Estar e Envelhecimento (SABE), realizado em São Paulo, Brasil. A amostra deste estudo transversal constituiu-se de 1.334 idosos com 60 anos ou mais. Os distúrbios foram avaliados com base nas respostas dos participantes, levando em conta se eles tinham experimentado qualquer perturbação do sono no mês anterior. RESULTADOS: Dentre os avaliados, 44,9% indicaram distúrbios do sono em geral, sendo esses mais frequentes em mulheres (51,5%) e na faixa etária de 75 a 79 anos (48,2%). De acordo com a análise de regressão, gênero, doenças articulares, noctúria e incontinência urinária foram associados aos distúrbios, sobre os quais também foi verificado que seu aumento não é linearmente dependente da idade. CONCLUSÕES: Sexo, dor, incontinência urinária e noctúria são fatores associados a distúrbios do sono em idosos. Assim, concluímos que a sua ausência está associada ao gênero e ao estado de saúde.

Organização do trabalho de motoristas de caminhão: necessidade de uma política intersetorial / Organization of truck drivers' work: need for an intersectoral policy

A organização do trabalho de motoristas de caminhão tem se modificado intensamente nos últimos anos. Vêm sendo observados a terceirização das atividades de trabalho, o uso de escalas irregulares e longas jornadas de trabalho. As consequências da má organização de trabalho à saúde dos trabalhadores são severas, conforme demonstram diversas pesquisas científicas. Neste ensaio, discutem-se as consequências das recentes transformações ocorridas na organização de trabalho, particularmente na legislação que regulamenta as atividades de motoristas de caminhão em território nacional e a necessidade de uma política intersetorial capaz de articular as diversas políticas públicas voltadas para a proteção dessa importante categoria profissional.

The organization of truck drivers' work underwent considerable changes in recent years, with outsourcing, irregular shifts and extended working hours as some of its characteristics. Poor work organization has serious consequences for the health of workers, as shown by several scientific studies. In this essay we discuss the consequences of recent transformations in the organization of work, particularly the laws that regulate the activity of truck drivers in Brazil. We also point to the need for an intersectoral policy able to articulate the various public policies for the protection of this significant professional category

Problemas de sono em idosos estão associados a sexo feminino, dor e incontinência urinária / Sleep disturbances in older adults are associated to female sex, pain and urinary incontinence

RESUMO: Objetivos: A prevalência de problemas de sono em idosos, como insônia, é uma questão relevante em nossa sociedade. A má qualidade do sono, por exemplo, é vista por muitos como um resultado inevitável do envelhecimento. Neste contexto, este estudo teve como objetivo estimar a prevalência e os fatores associados a distúrbios do sono em homens e mulheres idosos (60 anos ou mais). Métodos: O presente trabalho é parte do estudo de coorte Saúde, Bem-Estar e Envelhecimento (SABE), realizado em São Paulo, Brasil. A amostra deste estudo transversal constituiu-se de 1.334 idosos com 60 anos ou mais. Os distúrbios foram avaliados com base nas respostas dos participantes, levando em conta se eles tinham experimentado qualquer perturbação do sono no mês anterior. Resultados: Dentre os avaliados, 44,9% indicaram distúrbios do sono em geral, sendo esses mais frequentes em mulheres (51,5%) e na faixa etária de 75 a 79 anos (48,2%). De acordo com a análise de regressão, gênero, doenças articulares, noctúria e incontinência urinária foram associados aos distúrbios, sobre os quais também foi verificado que seu aumento não é linearmente dependente da idade. Conclusões: Sexo, dor, incontinência urinária e noctúria são fatores associados a distúrbios do sono em idosos. Assim, concluímos que a sua ausência está associada ao gênero e ao estado de saúde.

ABSTRACT: Objectives: The prevalence of sleep problems in elderly, such as insomnia, is a relevant issue in our society. Poor sleep quality is viewed by many as an inevitable result of aging. In this context, this study aimed to estimate the prevalence and associated factors of sleeping disturbances in elderly men and women (60 years and older). Methods: The present study is part of SABE Study (Health, Well-being and Aging), a cohort conducted in São Paulo, Brazil. The sample included in the present cross-sectional study comprised 1,334 elderly people aged 60 years or older. Sleep disturbances were assessed based on responses of study participants on whether they had experienced any sleep disturbance in the past month. Results: Among the elderly assessed, 44.9% had overall sleep disturbances, which were more frequent in women (51.5%) and in 75 to 79 years old (48.2%). According to the regression analysis, the variables gender, joint diseases, as well as nocturia and urinary incontinence, were associated with sleep disorders. Increase in sleep disturbances was found not to be linearly age-dependent. Conclusions: Gender, pain, urinary and nocturia incontinence were factors associated with sleep disorders. Thus, we might conclude that the absence of sleep disturbances in older adults depends on gender and health status.

Vínculos empregatícios, condições de trabalho e saúde entre motoristas de caminhão / Employment contract, work and health conditions among truck drivers / Vínculos laborales, condiciones de trabajo y salud de conductores de camión

Motoristas de caminhão estão sujeitos a condições de trabalho que podem contribuir significativamente para o comprometimento de sua saúde. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar discursos de motoristas de caminhão sobre condições de trabalho e saúde, mediante as modalidades de vínculos empregatícios. A pesquisa qualitativa utilizou o método da Análise Coletiva do Trabalho e contou com a participação de 40 motoristas de caminhão, autônomos (n=20) e contratados (n=20), de uma transportadora do Estado de São Paulo. Foram realizadas quatro entrevistas em grupo, nas quais os trabalhadores de cada vínculo descreveram sua atividade, partindo da pergunta norteadora "O que você faz no trabalho?". Os discursos, gravados e transcritos,foram analisados por meio da Análise de Conteúdo de Bardin, sendo elaboradas duas categorias: Condições de trabalho e Saúde. Os motoristas autônomos dependiam do número de cargas transportadas comissionadas e reportaram maior liberdade e autonomia na escolha dos destinos e rotas, além da possibilidade de levar familiares nas viagens.Tanto os motoristas contratados quanto os autônomos mencionaram a precariedade na infraestrutura das rodovias brasileiras e dos postos de parada. A precarização no trabalho e os curtos prazos de entrega foram relacionados ao consumo de drogas, como anfetaminas, cocaína e crack. A informalidade e a precarização presentes nessa profissão, configuradas pela terceirização, comprometem as condições de trabalho e saúde dos trabalhadores submetidos ao mesmo contexto.

Truck drivers' working conditions can contribute significantly to impairing their health. This study examined truck drivers' statements regarding working conditions and health, by type of employment relationship. The qualitative research used the Collective Analysis of Work method with the participation of 40 truck drivers, some self-employed (n=20) and others working under contract (n=20), with a transport firm in São Paulo State, Brazil. In four group interviews, grouping by employment relationship type, the workers described their activity in response to the guiding question "What do you do at work?". Once recorded and transcribed,the statements were subjected to Bardin Content Analysis, from which two categories were developed: "Working conditions" and "Health". The self-employed drivers depended on the number of loads commissioned and transported, and reported greater freedom and autonomy in choosing destinations and routes, in addition to being able to take family members along on their trips. Both contractors and self-employed drivers mentioned the deficient state of Brazil's highway and truck-stop infrastructure. Precarious labor relations and short delivery timeframes were related to use of drugs including amphetamines, cocaine, and crack. Informal and precarious employment relations, typically involving sub-contracting, jeopardized the working and health conditions of these and other workers in the same context.

Conductores de camión se someten a condiciones de trabajo que pueden contribuir significativamente al comprometimiento de su salud. El objetivo de este estudio es analizar discursos de conductores de camión acerca de condiciones de trabajo y salud, mediante las modalidades de vínculos laborales.Este estudio, de carácter cualitativo, utilizó el método de Análisis de Compilación del Trabajo y contó con la participación de 40 conductores de camión, autónomos (n=20) y contratados (n=20), de una transportadora del Estado de São Paulo (Brasil). Se realizaron cuatro entrevistas en grupo, en las que los trabajadores de cada vínculo describieron su actividad, partiendo de la siguiente pregunta: ¿Qué haces en tu trabajo? Los discursos fueron grabados y transcriptos y, luego, analizados por medio del Análisis de Contenido de Bardin. Se elaboraron dos categorías: Condiciones de trabajo y salud. Los conductores autónomos dependían del número de cargas comisionadas y transportadas, y reportaron mayor libertad y autonomía para elegir los destinos y rutas, además de la posibilidad de llevar familiares en los viajes que realizan. Tanto los motoristas contratados como los autónomos mencionaron la precariedad de la infraestructura de las carreteras brasileñas y de las estaciones de parada. La precariedad en el trabajo y los cortos plazos de entrega fueron relacionados con el consumo de drogas como anfetaminas, cocaína y crack. La informalidad y la precarización presentes en esta profesión, constituidas por la subcontratación, comprometen las condiciones de trabajo y salud de los trabajadores sometidos al mismo contexto.