A time with e-Natureza (e-Nature): a model of nature-based health interventions as a complex adaptive system.

Discussions surrounding the positive impacts of nature on human health and strategies to enhance our connection with the natural world have been ongoing. However, a limited number of theoretical models are available to guide research and practice in this area. Therefore, there is a pressing need for a systematic framework that outlines clear steps for conducting research implementing nature-based interventions. In this study, we investigate the relationship between health and nature through the lens of Complex Adaptive Systems. This approach involves examining the dynamic interactions between multiple interconnected elements to understand the complex emergent behaviors that arise from such relationships. Our model is designed to support nature-based interventions, considering the essential interdependence between humans and nature. This perspective aims to improve both human health and biodiversity conservation in a mutually beneficial manner. The underlying interactions that drive nature-based health interventions are thoroughly explored, leading us to propose a novel intervention model named "A time with e-Natureza" (e-Nature). This model encompasses four types of experiences, drawing from scientific literature and insights from authors engaged in an interdisciplinary research group: (1) Aesthetic and emotional experience; (2) Multisensory integration experience; (3) Knowledge experience; and (4) Engagement experience. Each experience within the model targets affective, cognitive, and behavioral aspects, with a specific focus on fostering a deeper connection with nature. Distinct activities are incorporated within each experience to promote successful outcomes. The model is grounded in existing theories that address the human-nature relationship and is informed by Nursing theories that support health promotion interventions. By presenting this new model, our aim is to contribute to the effective implementation of nature-based interventions that not only enhance human well-being but also support the conservation of nature. This integrated approach recognizes the mutual benefits of human-nature interaction and offers valuable insights for future research and practical applications in the fields of nature and health.

Toxoplasma gondii exposure in Brazilian indigenous populations, their dogs, environment, and healthcare professionals.

Although Toxoplasma gondii exposure has been reported in indigenous populations worldwide, a One Health approach has not been applied to date. This study concurrently assessed T. gondii exposure in indigenous populations, and their dogs, environment, and indigenous or non-indigenous healthcare professionals (HPs). Human and dog serum samples from 9 indigenous communities in Brazil were assessed by indirect immunofluorescence antibody test for anti-T. gondii antibodies. Soil samples (30 per community) were processed with PCR to amplify T. gondii DNA. Associated risk factors and seroprevalence were analyzed using logistic regression models. Human seropositivity and type of water source were assessed by generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) with binomial error distribution, and game meat consumption with chi-squared test. Overall, 225/463 (49%) indigenous persons were seropositive for anti-T. gondii antibodies. Of all the HPs, 67/168 (40%) were positive, and included 54/147 (37%) positive non-indigenous HPs. Indigenous persons more likely to be seropositive compared with non-indigenous HPs (OR: 1.63; 95% CI: 1.11-2.39). A total of 97/253 (38%) dogs were seropositive and highly associated with seropositive owners (p < 0.001). Based on univariate analysis for indigenous individuals, state location of community (p < 0.001), ethnicity (p < 0.001), consumption of game meat (p < 0.001), type of water source (p < 0.001), and educational level (p = 0.026) were associated with seropositivity. Logistic regression showed that indigenous seropositivity was associated with eating game meat (p = 0.002), drinking water from rivers (p < 0.001), and inversely proportional to the educational level. According to univariate analysis for non-indigenous HP, age (p = 0.005), frequency of visits to the indigenous populations (p < 0.001), consumption of water at the indigenous communities (p < 0.001), and ingestion of raw meat (p = 0.023) were associated with T. gondii seropositivity. Logistic regression revealed living outdoors (p = 0.042), habit of hunting (p = 0.008), and drinking river water (p = 0.007) as risk factors associated to seropositivity in dogs. In addition, indigenous communities lacking water treatment had higher seroprevalence for all groups including indigenous persons (GLMM; z = -7.153; p < 0.001), their dogs (GLMM; z = -2.405; p = 0.0162), and all HPs (GLMM; z = -2.420; p = 0.0155). Human seropositivity was associated with that of their dogs (p < 0.001). A single soil sample, out of 270 (0.37%), was positive for T. gondii by PCR. Our results indicate water source is a risk for human and dog toxoplasmosis in indigenous communities; both share similar exposure. Moreover, quality water access was shown to be crucial to prevent toxoplasmosis in both total and non-indigenous HPs who work in these indigenous communities.

A time with e-Natureza (e-Nature): a model of nature-based health interventions as a complex adaptive system

Discussions surrounding the positive impacts of nature on human health and strategies to enhance our connection with the natural world have been ongoing. However, a limited number of theoretical models are available to guide research and practice in this area. Therefore, there is a pressing need for a systematic framework that outlines clear steps for conducting research implementing nature-based interventions. In this study, we investigate the relationship between health and nature through the lens of Complex Adaptive Systems. This approach involves examining the dynamic interactions between multiple interconnected elements to understand the complex emergent behaviors that arise from such relationships. Our model is designed to support nature-based interventions, considering the essential interdependence between humans and nature. This perspective aims to improve both human health and biodiversity conservation in a mutually beneficial manner. The underlying interactions that drive nature-based health interventions are thoroughly explored, leading us to propose a novel intervention model named “A time with e-Natureza” (e-Nature). This model encompasses four types of experiences, drawing from scientific literature and insights from authors engaged in an interdisciplinary research group: (1) Aesthetic and emotional experience; (2) Multisensory integration experience; (3) Knowledge experience; and (4) Engagement experience. Each experience within the model targets affective, cognitive, and behavioral aspects, with a specific focus on fostering a deeper connection with nature. Distinct activities are incorporated within each experience to promote successful outcomes. The model is grounded in existing theories that address the human-nature relationship and is informed by Nursing theories that support health promotion interventions. By presenting this new model, our aim is to contribute to the effective implementation of nature-based interventions that not only enhance human well-being but also support the conservation of nature. This integrated approach recognizes the mutual benefits of human-nature interaction and offers valuable insights for future research and practical applications in the fields of nature and health.

Medicinal plant use in primary health care: an integrative review. / O uso de plantas medicinais na atenção primária à saúde: revisão integrativa.

Medicinal plant (MP) use supports comprehensiveness of care in Primary Health Care (PHC), enabling appreciation of popular knowledge and self-care. This integrative literature review aims to analyze researches that approach the insertion of using MP in PHC. PICO strategy was used as a guideline in search of evidence, reuniting 18 articles published between January 2015 and August 2020, in the Virtual Health Library and PubMed databases. The variables of analysis were knowledge of PHC healthcare professionals about MP and associated policies, MP use by its users, highlighting their profile, the reasons that lead to the use and lack of security in MP use. The results show insufficient knowledge of healthcare professionals about Integrative and Complementary Practices policies and the medicinal uses of plants. The main users are women, elderly, with low income and education, either in Brazil or other countries. Regarding safety in MP use, frequently there is no correct identification of species, its origin, its preparation and the appropriate dose for each case. Finally, failure to approach these contents during training of healthcare professionals generates less knowledge, less research and more prejudice due to lack of information, impairing incentive and dissemination to the community.

O uso de plantas medicinais (PM) favorece a integralidade do cuidado na atenção primária à saúde (APS), valorizando o saber popular e o autocuidado. Esta revisão integrativa de literatura objetiva analisar estudos sobre a inserção do uso de PM na APS. A estratégia PICO norteou a busca de evidências, reunindo 18 artigos publicados de janeiro de 2015 a agosto de 2020 nos bancos de dados Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde e PubMed. As variáveis de análise foram o conhecimento dos profissionais da saúde da APS sobre PM e políticas associadas, o uso de PM pelos usuários, destacando seu perfil, fatores que favorecem o uso e a falta de segurança no uso de PM. A literatura aponta insuficiência de conhecimento dos profissionais de saúde sobre as políticas de práticas integrativas e complementares e o uso de plantas para fins medicinais. Os principais usuários são mulheres, idosas, com baixa renda e escolaridade, tanto no Brasil quanto em outros países. Sobre a segurança no uso de PM, frequentemente não há correta identificação de espécie, origem, preparo e dose adequada para cada caso. Por fim, a não abordagem desses conteúdos durante a formação de profissionais da saúde gera menos conhecimento, menos pesquisas e mais preconceito por falta de informação, prejudicando o incentivo e divulgação à comunidade.

Impact of the National Policy on Integrative and Complementary Practices on Brazilian Public Homeopathy Services.

BACKGROUND: Homeopathy has been experiencing a period of expansion in Brazil due to its practical relevance in the face of new global and national health demands, culminating in the launch in 2006 of the National Policy for Integrative and Complementary Practices (NPICP) by the Ministry of Health of Brazil, which standardized and regularized the position of homeopathy within the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS). AIMS: To understand the impact of the guidelines proposed by the NPICP on homeopathy services in the SUS, specifically in the south-east region of Brazil, according to the perceptions of their managers. METHODS: This is a descriptive, exploratory research study with a qualitative approach, conducted in homeopathy services in the south-east region of Brazil, through semi-structured interviews and with data processed using content analysis. RESULTS: The data show the importance of the NPICP in regulating and offering homeopathy in the services studied. However, the NPICP's objective of promoting and fully developing integrative and complementary practices has not been achieved because it has failed to translate strategies into actions. CONCLUSION: Though important to the development of homeopathy services in any given location, policies stated in the NPICP were revealed to have limited impact on the implementation and development of new services. Without further legislation, training programs and appropriate budget allocation, new services will be unable to thrive and their users unable to benefit from a more comprehensive approach to healthcare.

Empatia em estudantes de Medicina: efeitos de um programa de gerenciamento do estresse / Empathy in medical students: effects of a stress management program

Resumo: Introdução: O curso de graduação em Medicina expõe os alunos a uma quantidade significativa de estresse, o que pode gerar consequências negativas para o aprendizado, a motivação e o contato com os pacientes. A falta de empatia na relação médico-paciente pode dificultar a adesão ao tratamento e os resultados nele. Algumas técnicas e práticas de medicina integrativa (mente e corpo) têm sido indicadas para auxiliar no manejo e na redução do estresse. Essas intervenções que envolvem práticas de meditação e que já são utilizadas em escolas médicas podem auxiliar no desenvolvimento da empatia e na visão da integralidade do cuidado. Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar o efeito de um programa de Redução de Estresse e Desenvolvimento da Empatia na Medicina (Redemed©) no nível de empatia de estudantes de graduação em Medicina. Método: O programa foi composto por oito encontros de duas horas cada, envolvendo práticas de meditação, posturas de ioga e atividades de grupo direcionadas ao aperfeiçoamento de interações interpessoais. O grupo intervenção foi composto por 47 alunos, e o grupo controle, por 40 estudantes. Utilizou-se a Escala Jefferson de Empatia Médica, versão para estudantes (JSPE-S), para avaliar o nível de empatia antes e depois da intervenção. Resultado: O aumento do nível de empatia no grupo que recebeu a intervenção foi significativo quando comparado ao grupo controle (p: 0,000). Conclusão: A participação no programa Redemed© se mostrou eficaz no aumento da empatia entre estudantes de graduação de um curso de Medicina.

Abstract: Introduction: The undergraduate medical course exposes students to a significant amount of stress, which can have negative consequences for learning, motivation and contact with patients. Lack of empathy in the doctor-patient relationship can hinder adherence and treatment results. Some techniques and practices of integrative medicine (mind and body) have been indicated as aiding the management and reduction of stress. These interventions that involve meditation practices, and which are already used in medical schools, can help in the development of empathy and in the vision of comprehensive care. Objective: Investigate the effect of the Stress Reduction and Empathy Development in Medicine Program (REDEMED©) on empathy levels in undergraduate medical students. Method: The program consisted of eight 2-hour sessions with practices involving meditation, yoga postures, and group activities aimed at improving interpersonal interactions. The intervention group consisted of 47 students and the control group 40 students. Empathy was evaluated before and after intervention using the Jefferson Scale of Empathy - version for medical students (JSE-S). Result: Empathy level significantly increased in the group who received intervention compared to the control group (p: 0.000). Conclusion: Participation in the REDEMED© program showed an increase in empathy in undergraduate medical students.

O uso de plantas medicinais na atenção primária à saúde: revisão integrativa / Medicinal plant use in primary health care: an integrative review

Resumo O uso de plantas medicinais (PM) favorece a integralidade do cuidado na atenção primária à saúde (APS), valorizando o saber popular e o autocuidado. Esta revisão integrativa de literatura objetiva analisar estudos sobre a inserção do uso de PM na APS. A estratégia PICO norteou a busca de evidências, reunindo 18 artigos publicados de janeiro de 2015 a agosto de 2020 nos bancos de dados Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde e PubMed. As variáveis de análise foram o conhecimento dos profissionais da saúde da APS sobre PM e políticas associadas, o uso de PM pelos usuários, destacando seu perfil, fatores que favorecem o uso e a falta de segurança no uso de PM. A literatura aponta insuficiência de conhecimento dos profissionais de saúde sobre as políticas de práticas integrativas e complementares e o uso de plantas para fins medicinais. Os principais usuários são mulheres, idosas, com baixa renda e escolaridade, tanto no Brasil quanto em outros países. Sobre a segurança no uso de PM, frequentemente não há correta identificação de espécie, origem, preparo e dose adequada para cada caso. Por fim, a não abordagem desses conteúdos durante a formação de profissionais da saúde gera menos conhecimento, menos pesquisas e mais preconceito por falta de informação, prejudicando o incentivo e divulgação à comunidade.

Abstract Medicinal plant (MP) use supports comprehensiveness of care in Primary Health Care (PHC), enabling appreciation of popular knowledge and self-care. This integrative literature review aims to analyze researches that approach the insertion of using MP in PHC. PICO strategy was used as a guideline in search of evidence, reuniting 18 articles published between January 2015 and August 2020, in the Virtual Health Library and PubMed databases. The variables of analysis were knowledge of PHC healthcare professionals about MP and associated policies, MP use by its users, highlighting their profile, the reasons that lead to the use and lack of security in MP use. The results show insufficient knowledge of healthcare professionals about Integrative and Complementary Practices policies and the medicinal uses of plants. The main users are women, elderly, with low income and education, either in Brazil or other countries. Regarding safety in MP use, frequently there is no correct identification of species, its origin, its preparation and the appropriate dose for each case. Finally, failure to approach these contents during training of healthcare professionals generates less knowledge, less research and more prejudice due to lack of information, impairing incentive and dissemination to the community.

Connectedness to nature and its association with food choice motives among primary health care professionals. / Conexão com a natureza e associação com motivos de escolhas alimentares entre profissionais da atenção primária à saúde.

Connectedness to nature can boost well-being and lead to healthier and more sustainable food choices. Health professionals have the potential to be key agents in promoting environmental health. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 146 primary healthcare professionals to determine the association betweennature connectedness and food choicemotives considered important for human and environmental health. We used the 14-item Connectedness to Nature Scale (CNS) and the Food Choice Questionnaire (FCQ), consisting of 36 items distributed between nine factors, including "health", "natural content", and "ethical concern". The average CNS score was 53.8 (± 9). The highest scoring factors of the FCQ were sensory appeal and price.Ethical concern was ranked last. There was a significant positive association between degree of nature connectedness and scoring for the factors health (p = 0.031), natural content (p = 0.001), and ethical concern (p <0.001). The results of this unprecedented studyshow that increased connectedness to nature may lead to healthier and more sustainable food choices.

A conexão com a natureza pode favorecer o bem-estar e a adoção de práticas alimentares sustentáveis. Profissionais de saúde seriam agentes fundamentais nesta interface, promovendo a saúde ambiental. Estudo transversal com 146 profissionais da atenção primária avaliou a associação entre conexão com a natureza e os motivos para escolhas alimentares consideradas importantes à saúde humana e ambiental. Aplicou-se Escala de Conexão com a Natureza (ECN), contendo 14 itens que medem o quanto a pessoa se sente integrada ao meio ambiente, variando de 14 a 70 pontos; e o Questionário sobre Motivos para as Escolhas Alimentares (FCQ), com 36 itens distribuídos em nove fatores, dentre os quais elegeu-se para este estudo: "Saúde", "Conteúdo Natural" e "Preocupação Ética". A pontuação média na ECN foi de 53,8, (± 9). "Apelo Sensorial" e "Preço" foram os fatores mais pontuados; "Preocupação Ética" ocupou a última posição. Houve associação positiva significativa da ECN com a pontuação nos fatores "Saúde" (p = 0,031), "Conteúdo Natural" (p = 0,001) e "Preocupação Ética" (p < 0,001). Os resultados desta pesquisa inédita permitiram concluir que aumentar conexão com a natureza pode favorecer escolhas alimentares mais saudáveis e sustentáveis.

Conexão com a natureza e associação com motivos de escolhas alimentares entre profissionais da atenção primária à saúde / Connectedness to nature and its association with food choice motives among primary health care professionals

Resumo A conexão com a natureza pode favorecer o bem-estar e a adoção de práticas alimentares sustentáveis. Profissionais de saúde seriam agentes fundamentais nesta interface, promovendo a saúde ambiental. Estudo transversal com 146 profissionais da atenção primária avaliou a associação entre conexão com a natureza e os motivos para escolhas alimentares consideradas importantes à saúde humana e ambiental. Aplicou-se Escala de Conexão com a Natureza (ECN), contendo 14 itens que medem o quanto a pessoa se sente integrada ao meio ambiente, variando de 14 a 70 pontos; e o Questionário sobre Motivos para as Escolhas Alimentares (FCQ), com 36 itens distribuídos em nove fatores, dentre os quais elegeu-se para este estudo: "Saúde", "Conteúdo Natural" e "Preocupação Ética". A pontuação média na ECN foi de 53,8, (± 9). "Apelo Sensorial" e "Preço" foram os fatores mais pontuados; "Preocupação Ética" ocupou a última posição. Houve associação positiva significativa da ECN com a pontuação nos fatores "Saúde" (p = 0,031), "Conteúdo Natural" (p = 0,001) e "Preocupação Ética" (p < 0,001). Os resultados desta pesquisa inédita permitiram concluir que aumentar conexão com a natureza pode favorecer escolhas alimentares mais saudáveis e sustentáveis.

Abstract Connectedness to nature can boost well-being and lead to healthier and more sustainable food choices. Health professionals have the potential to be key agents in promoting environmental health. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 146 primary healthcare professionals to determine the association betweennature connectedness and food choicemotives considered important for human and environmental health. We used the 14-item Connectedness to Nature Scale (CNS) and the Food Choice Questionnaire (FCQ), consisting of 36 items distributed between nine factors, including "health", "natural content", and "ethical concern". The average CNS score was 53.8 (± 9). The highest scoring factors of the FCQ were sensory appeal and price.Ethical concern was ranked last. There was a significant positive association between degree of nature connectedness and scoring for the factors health (p = 0.031), natural content (p = 0.001), and ethical concern (p <0.001). The results of this unprecedented studyshow that increased connectedness to nature may lead to healthier and more sustainable food choices.

Fatores associados ao bem-estar em profissionais da atenção primária / Factors associated with well-being in primary care professionals / Factores asociados con el bienestar de profesionales de la atención primaria

Objetivo: Investigar fatores associados ao bem-estar subjetivo (BES) em profissionais da Atenção Primária a Saúde (APS). Métodos: Estudo transversal realizado em 2017 com 142 profissionais da APS de um município paulista que responderam aos instrumentos: Escala de BES (EBES), Escala de Conexão com a Natureza (ECN); Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI); Estado de Saúde Autorreferido (ESA); Questionário sociodemográfico. Aplicou-se análise estatística, ajustados modelos de regressão linear múltipla, com resposta normal para explicar pontuações dos 3 domínios da escala EBES, em função das variáveis independentes estatisticamente mais fortes (p<0,20), em análise prévia bivariada. Considerou-se estatisticamente significativo se p<0,05. Resultados: Amostra com predomínio de pessoas do sexo feminino (n=116; 81,7%), cor da pele autoatribuída branca (n=123;86,6%), idade até 35 anos (n=77; 54,2%), casadas ou em união estável (n= 91; 64,1%), com graduação ou pós (n=83; 58,5%) e trabalhadoras da saúde há mais de 5 anos (n= 102; 71,8). Maiores níveis de BES associados à escolaridade (ter graduação ou pós, p=0,039) e menores à idade (acima de 35 anos, p=0,025), ESA ruim ou muito ruim (p=0,005 para satisfação com a vida e p=0,028 para afetos positivos), hospitalização no último ano (p=0,017), morar sozinho (p=0,007) e burnout (p=0,004 na pontuação geral e p=0,030 na dimensão despersonalização" do MBI). Conclusão: Aspectos sociodemográficos (idade acima de 35 anos e residir sozinho) impactam negativamente o bem-estar dos profissionais investigados, assim como condição ruim de saúde e grau de estresse relacionado ao trabalho. Ter graduação ou pós pode favorecer a satisfação com a vida.

Objective: To investigate factors associated with subjective well-being (SWB) in Primary Health Care (PHC) professionals. Methods: Cross-sectional study conducted in 2017 with 142 PHC professionals from a city in São Paulo State who answered the instruments: SWB Scale (SWBS), Connectedness to Nature Scale (CNS); Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI); Self-Reported Health Status (SRHS); sociodemographic questionnaire. Statistical analysis was applied and adjusted for multiple linear regression models, with normal responses to explain scores of the three domains of the SWBS scale as a function of the statistically stronger independent variables (p<0.20) in former bivariate analysis. It was considered statistically significant if p<0.05. Results: Sample with a predominance of females (n=116; 81.7%), white self-assigned skin colour (n=123; 86.6%), aged up to 35 years (n=77; 54.2%), married or in a stable relationship (n=91; 64.1%), graduated or postgraduate (n=83; 58.5%) and health workers for more than 5 years (n= 102; 71.8). Higher levels of SWB associated with schooling (being undergraduate or graduate, p=0.039) and underage (over 35 years, p=0.025), bad or very bad SRHS (p=0.005 for life satisfaction and p=0.028 for positive affects), hospitalization in the last year (p=0.017), living alone (p=0.007) and Burnout (p=0.004 in the overall score and p=0.030 in the depersonalization dimension of the MBI). Conclusion: Sociodemographic aspects (over 35 years old and living alone) negatively impact the well being of the professionals investigated as poor health status and work-related stress level. Having an undergraduate or graduate degree can promote life satisfaction.

Objetivo: Investigar los factores asociados con el bienestar subjetivo (BES) de profesionales de la Atención Primaria de Salud (APS). Métodos: Estudio transversal realizado en 2017 con 142 profesionales de la APS de un municipio de São Paulo que contestaron a los siguientes instrumentos: la Escala de BES (EBES), la Escala de Conexión con la Naturaleza (ECN); el Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI); el Estado de Salud Auto referido (ESA); el Cuestionario sociodemográfico. Se aplicó el análisis estadístico, ajustados modelos de regresión linear múltiple con respuesta normal para explicar las puntuaciones de los 3 dominios de la escala EBES, según las variables independientes estadísticamente más fuertes (p<0,20), en análisis previo bivariado. Se há considerado estadísticamente significativo si p<0,05. Resultados: Hubo el predominio de personas del sexo femenino (n=116; 81,7%), del color de piel blanco auto atribuido (n=123; 86,6%), edad hasta los 35 años (n=77; 54,2%), casadas o en unión estable (n= 91; 64,1%), con graduación o post grado (n=83; 58,5%) y trabajadoras del área de la salud desde hace más de 5 años (n= 102; 71,8). Mayores niveles de BES asociados con la escolaridad (tener graduación o post grado p=0,039) y los menores de edad (por encima de los 35 años, p=0,025), malo o muy malo ESA (p=0,005 para la satisfacción con la vida y la p=0,028 para los afectos positivos), la hospitalización del último año (p=0,017), vivir solo (p=0,007) y burnout (p=0,004 para la puntuación general y p=0,030 para la dimensión "despersonalización" del MBI). Conclusión: Los aspectos socio demográficos (por encima de los 35 años y vivir solo) impactan negativamente en el bienestar de los profesionales investigados, así como la mala condición de salud y el grado de estrés relacionado con el trabajo. Tener graduación o post grado puede favorecer la satisfacción con la vida.

Implementation of Brazil's National Policy on Complementary and Integrative Practices: strengths and weaknesses. / Potencialidades e fragilidades de implantação da Política Nacional de Práticas Integrativas e Complementares.

This narrative review examines the literature on complementary and integrative practices (CIPs) and their incorporation into Brazil's national health system (Sistema Único de Saúde - SUS) in an attempt to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the implementation of the National Policy on Complementary and Integrative Practices in the SUS (PNPIC, acronym in Portuguese). A search was conducted of the MEDLINE, LILACS, and SciELO databases, resulting in final sample of 25 articles. Our analysis identified five key themes in the literature related to the strengths and weaknesses of policy implementation: 1) Professional training in CIPs in the SUS; 2) structuring the provision of CIPs, access, and health promotion; 3) knowledge, access, and acceptance of service users in relation to CIPs; 4) knowledge of SUS professional staff and managers in relation to the PNPIC; and 5) scope and monitoring and evaluation of the PNPIC. In consonance with the conclusions of the PNPIC management reports, the findings provide a deeper insight into policy implementation problems and reinforce the need to empower the actors involved in this process to tackle these challenges.

Esta revisão narrativa tem por objetivo analisar a produção científica sobre as Práticas Integrativas e Complementares (PIC) no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) visando compreender as potencialidades e fragilidades do processo de implantação da Política Nacional de Práticas Integrativas e Complementares (PNPIC). Após busca nas bases de dados, 25 artigos foram selecionados e os seus resultados analisados criticamente. Da análise do material emergiram cinco temas principais que explicitaram potencialidades e fragilidades de implantação da política: 1) Formação profissional em PIC para o SUS; 2) Estruturação da oferta em PIC, acesso e promoção da saúde; 3) Conhecimento, acesso e aceitação de usuários em relação às PIC; 4) Conhecimento de profissionais e gestores em relação à PNPIC; e 5) Escopo, monitoramento e avaliação da PNPIC. Os resultados se alinham aos relatórios de gestão da PNPIC aprofundando o conhecimento acerca da implantação da política e reforçando a necessidade de empoderamento dos atores do SUS para o enfrentamento de seus desafios.

Potencialidades e fragilidades de implantação da Política Nacional de Práticas Integrativas e Complementares / Implementation of Brazil's National Policy on Complementary and Integrative Practices: strengths and weaknesses

Resumo Esta revisão narrativa tem por objetivo analisar a produção científica sobre as Práticas Integrativas e Complementares (PIC) no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) visando compreender as potencialidades e fragilidades do processo de implantação da Política Nacional de Práticas Integrativas e Complementares (PNPIC). Após busca nas bases de dados, 25 artigos foram selecionados e os seus resultados analisados criticamente. Da análise do material emergiram cinco temas principais que explicitaram potencialidades e fragilidades de implantação da política: 1) Formação profissional em PIC para o SUS; 2) Estruturação da oferta em PIC, acesso e promoção da saúde; 3) Conhecimento, acesso e aceitação de usuários em relação às PIC; 4) Conhecimento de profissionais e gestores em relação à PNPIC; e 5) Escopo, monitoramento e avaliação da PNPIC. Os resultados se alinham aos relatórios de gestão da PNPIC aprofundando o conhecimento acerca da implantação da política e reforçando a necessidade de empoderamento dos atores do SUS para o enfrentamento de seus desafios.

Abstract This narrative review examines the literature on complementary and integrative practices (CIPs) and their incorporation into Brazil's national health system (Sistema Único de Saúde - SUS) in an attempt to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the implementation of the National Policy on Complementary and Integrative Practices in the SUS (PNPIC, acronym in Portuguese). A search was conducted of the MEDLINE, LILACS, and SciELO databases, resulting in final sample of 25 articles. Our analysis identified five key themes in the literature related to the strengths and weaknesses of policy implementation: 1) Professional training in CIPs in the SUS; 2) structuring the provision of CIPs, access, and health promotion; 3) knowledge, access, and acceptance of service users in relation to CIPs; 4) knowledge of SUS professional staff and managers in relation to the PNPIC; and 5) scope and monitoring and evaluation of the PNPIC. In consonance with the conclusions of the PNPIC management reports, the findings provide a deeper insight into policy implementation problems and reinforce the need to empower the actors involved in this process to tackle these challenges.

Uma Estratégia de Redução do Estresse entre Estudantes Médicos / A Strategy for Stress Reduction among Medical Students

Resumo: Introdução: O curso de graduação em Medicina expõe os alunos a uma quantidade significativa de estresse, o que pode gerar consequências negativas para o aprendizado, a motivação e o contato com os pacientes. Algumas técnicas e práticas têm sido indicadas para auxiliar no manejo e na redução do estresse, como é o caso da meditação que já é utilizada em escolas médicas. Este estudo avaliou os efeitos de um programa de redução do estresse e desenvolvimento da empatia em medicina (Redemed©) sobre a percepção de estresse de seus participantes e possíveis grupos de acolhimento. Método: Este é um ensaio quase experimental cuja amostra foi composta por 40 estudantes que compuseram o grupo controle e 47 alunos de um grupo de intervenção que participaram de oito encontros semanais de duas horas divididas em: 30 minutos de teoria sobre como o estresse influencia o estado de saúde, 60 minutos de vivências interpessoais e 30 minutos de ioga e meditação. Ambos os grupos, antes e depois do curso, responderam ao questionário sobre estresse percebido (PSS - Escala de Cohen). Resultados: Após os oito encontros semanais, o grupo intervenção apresentou melhora significativa (p = 0,030), demonstrando que a participação no curso Redemed© mostrou-se eficaz no controle do estresse entre os estudantes do presente estudo. Os alunos também foram questionados quanto à autopercepção sobre se sentirem ou não apoiados por outros grupos. Os três grupos de acolhimentos mais citados entre os alunos, tanto do grupo ativo como do controle, foram: amigos/família, centro acadêmico e a equipe do esporte que praticavam. Após as oito semanas, enquanto o grupo controle permaneceu com as mesmas indicações, no grupo intervenção foram citados: amigos/família, Redemed© e centro acadêmico. Conclusão: Este estudo mostrou que o programa Redemed©, com encontros durante oito semanas utilizando a meditação como sua técnica central, foi eficaz na redução do estresse percebido pelos estudantes de Medicina que participaram dessa intervenção quando comparado ao grupo controle (p = 0,000). As práticas integrativas e complementares podem ser uma ferramenta importante dentro das escolas médicas, de modo a levar os estudantes a lidar melhor com o estresse a que estão expostos ao longo do curso.

Abstract: Introduction: Undergraduate medical students experience a considerable amount of stress, which can negatively affect their learning, motivation and contact with patients. Some techniques and practices for stress management and reduction, such as meditation, have been recommended and used in medical schools. This study evaluated the effects of a Stress Reduction and Empathy Development Program in Medicine (REDEMED©) on participants' perception of stress and possible support groups. Method: This is a quasi-experimental trial whose sample comprised 40 students in a control group and 47 students in an intervention group. The students in the intervention group participated in eight weekly sessions lasting two hours each. The course hours were divided into: 30 minutes of theoretical content on how stress influences one's health, 60 minutes of interpersonal practices and 30 minutes of yoga and meditation practices. Both groups, before and after the program, answered the questionnaire on perceived stress (PSS - Cohen's scale). Results: After the eight weekly meetings, the intervention group showed significant improvement (p = 0.030), showing that participation in the REDEMED© course proved to be effective in stress control among the students in the study. The students were also questioned about their self-perception of whether or not they felt they were supported by any other groups. The three support groups most often referred to by the students, in both the intervention and the control group, were: friends/family, the Students' Union and their sports team. After eight weeks, while the control group still referred to the same groups, the intervention group mentioned friends/family, REDEMED© and the Students' Union. Conclusion: This study showed that the REDEMED© program, meeting for eight weeks using meditation as its central technique, was effective in reducing the stress perceived by medical students who participated in this intervention when compared to the control group (p = 0,000). Integrative and complementary practices can be an important tool within medical schools, empowering students to better cope with the stress they are exposed to throughout the course.

Existe Alteração em Marcadores Inflamatórios em Estudantes de Medicina após Participação em Programa Mente-Corpo? / Is There Any Change in Inflammatory Markers in Medical Students after Participating in a Mind-Body Program?

RESUMO Introdução Estudantes do curso de Medicina estão expostos a carga elevada de estresse, desencadeada por terem que lidar com adoecimento e morte dos pacientes, extensa carga horária, privação de sono, competitividade, cobrança, responsabilidade e medo de errar, entre outros fatores. Algumas técnicas e práticas como a meditação têm sido utilizadas para auxiliar no manejo e redução de estresse, já sendo utilizadas em escolas médicas. O estresse pode ativar componentes do sistema inflamatório, desencadeando uma série de doenças. As desordens causadas pelo estresse podem ser mensuradas por meio de marcadores sorológicos, sendo que os biológicos são os principais utilizados. Objetivo Avaliar os efeitos de um programa de práticas mente-corpo, Redução de Estresse e Desenvolvimento da Empatia na Medicina (Redemed©), nos níveis dos marcadores pró- e anti-inflamatórios de estudantes de medicina. Metodologia Trata-se de um estudo quase-experimental, composto por 86 estudantes, sendo 44 do grupo intervenção, que participaram do programa Redemed© com oito encontros semanais, englobando técnicas de meditação e exercícios de vivências interpessoais, e 42 estudantes do grupo controle. Ambos os grupos, antes e após o curso, coletaram sangue para análise dos marcadores: proteína C reativa (PCR), fator de necrose tumoral-alfa (TNF-alfa), interleucina 06 (IL06) e interleucina 10 (IL10). Resultados Neste estudo, não foi observada alteração estatisticamente significativa nas citocinas pró-inflamatórias: PCR, TNF-α e IL06. No entanto, a IL-10, que é uma citocina anti-inflamatória, apresentou uma variação positiva e estatisticamente significativa (p: 0,009). Ela tem sido utilizada em estudos com práticas integrativas e complementares a fim de demonstrar seus benefícios. Conclusão O programa Redemed© parece beneficiar os estudantes de Medicina por meio da modulação inflamatória e como grupo de acolhimento no qual eles puderam compartilhar seu estresse e treinar estratégias de enfrentamento. Este estudo, mesmo não tendo encontrado diferença estatística significativa nos marcadores pesquisados, com exceção da IL10, traz à tona este tema importante do grande estresse vivenciado por estudantes de Medicina e a necessidade de as escolas médicas terem maior cuidado com seus alunos, acolhendo e trabalhando o estresse desses estudantes de forma a reduzir e gerenciar melhor este fator de adoecimento em suas vidas.

ABSTRACT Introduction Medical students are exposed to high stress levels, triggered by having to deal with their illness and death of their patients, extensive workloads, sleep deprivation, competition, having to fulfil demanding duties, responsibility, and fear of making mistakes, among other factors. Some techniques and practices, such as meditation, are used in medical schools to help manage and reduce stress. Stress can activate components of the inflammatory system, triggering a series of pathologies. The disorders caused by stress can be measured by means of serological markers, with biological markers being the main ones used. Objective. To evaluate the effects of a program of mind-body practices, Reduction of Stress and Development of Empathy in Medicine (REDEMED ©), on pro- and anti-inflammatory markers of medical students. Methodology This is a quasi-experimental study, composed of 86 students: 44 in the intervention group, who participated in the REDMED© program with eight-weekly meetings that included meditation techniques and exercises of interpersonal experiences, and 42 students in the control group. Before and after the course, blood was collected from both groups for analysis of the markers: C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin-6 (IL06) and interleukin-10 (IL10). Results No statistically significant changes were observed in the proinflammatory cytokines CRP, TNF-α and IL06. However, IL-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine, showed a positive and statistically significant variation (p: 0.009). It has been used in studies with integrative and complementary practices to demonstrate its benefits. Conclusion The REDEMED© program seems to benefit medical students through inflammatory modulation and as a group that provides a forum to share their stress and receive coaching in coping strategies. This study, even though it did not find a statistically significant difference in the markers studied, with the exception of IL10, raises the important theme of the high levels of stress that medical students experience, and the need for medical schools to take greater care of their students, addressing stress in order better manage it in their own lives.

Guidance on Healthy Eating Habits from the Medical Student's Perspective / Orientação de Hábitos Alimentares Saudáveis sob o Olhar do Estudante de Medicina

ABSTRACT Although nutrition is one of the most significant aspects of good health and well-being, preventing many diseases and reducing premature death and disability, most medical curricula still do not cover this topic in depth, devoting only a few hours to it. This leaves an important gap in the training of medical professionals, in a context of an increase in chronic diseases, where healthy eating is essential, not only for prevention but also to guarantee treatment success. The present study interviewed medical students from the first to the sixth years of graduation, in order to understand what they consider to be a healthy diet and whether they consider themselves capable of guiding their future patients in the adoption and practice healthy eating habits. This is a qualitative study in which semi-structured interviews were conducted with 28 undergraduate medical students of a public university in the state of São Paulo. The data were analyzed using the technique of Content Analysis, with a thematic representational approach. Two major themes emerged, showing possible gaps in the students' knowledge about nutrition and the difficulty they have in helping their patients switch to healthier eating habits, given that they themselves have difficulty doing the same. There is a need for medical schools to promote students' health, both physical and mental, in response to the high demands of the courses. This may include health promotion activities aimed at the students themselves, encouraging them to adopt healthier lifestyles, especially healthier eating habits, so that they can share their own experiences with future patients. This may benefit their professional practice, giving them greater confidence when giving nutrition guidance to their patients, as they will have already experienced and applied the principles in their own lives. Patient-centered care can be a way to address this system and help patients effectively switch to healthier habits, thereby reducing suffering and improving quality of life. Empowerment through activities that receive and support the student and the patient is an essential tool for behavioral change.

RESUMO The rising number of students leagues in the Escola Paulista de Medicina of the Universidade Federal de São Paulo (EPM-Unifesp) leads to questions about their meaning to students and their role in medical training, as well as concerns about learning distortions, early specialization, social relevance, and insertion in the Brazilian national health system, called the Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). In order to try and clarify these questions, this qualitative study analyzes the statues of the leagues, and the statements of tutors and students, gathered by means of four focal groups with students and two interviews with the tutors. We found 45 leagues currently running at the EPM-Unifesp, most of them associated with a medical specialty. The main motivators for joining in a league were: the search for practical activities, the desire to gain more experience of a particular specialty, the desire for more knowledge, and the need to be recognized as a responsible adult. Of the leagues studied, few conducted research or university extension activities, focusing on treatment and theoretical classes, supervised by professors, non-teacher physicians, resident doctors, or more senior students. The tutors are in charge of the organizational aspects. The leagues can reproduce graduation models, such as an overburdoning with activities and poor expository classes. Concerning insertion in the SUS, the leagues could be a means of training future SUS professionals. Although students claim that they intend to specialize in the league's field, the tutors disagree that they lead to early specialization. We consider that while leagues fill gaps in the learning and expectations of the course, they are limited in regards to the impact of their activities on medical training and their social relevance. They can subvert the curricular structure and favor early specialization. We recommend that universities pay closer attention to students leagues, observing their number, selection process, activities, tutors involved and explicit objectives, with the purpose of evaluating their roles in the curriculum and medical training.

Evaluation of inflammatory markers in the practice of meditation in students of medicine: controlled clinical trial

INTRODUCTION Stress, depression and anxious symptoms are more pronounced in medical students than in students in other courses. Chronic psychological stressors are associated with inflammation. The markers considered most evident for low-grade chronic inflammation associated with diseases are pro inflammatory cytokines and C-reactive protein (CRP). OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of a course of stress reduction and empathy development in medical students (REDEMED) through inflammatory markers. METHODS Controlled clinical trial, whose sample consisted of 55 students of the active group, who performed eight weekly classes of two hours of meditation techniques and exercises to explore interpersonal experiences, and 54 students who composed the control group. Blood was taken from both groups before and after the eight-week course for analysis of inflammatory markers: C-reactive protein (CRP) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). RESULTS Due to loss of students to follow-up and problems with processing some blood samples, analysis included results from only 31 from the active group and 29 from the control group. There were no significant differences between the control and active groups in relation to the inflammatory markers PCR and TNF-α. DISCUSSION REDEMED did not present significant alterations of the inflammatory markers evaluated in this group of medical students in the evaluated period. Investigations of different biomarkers and other categories (genetic, neurobiological, etc.) could be carried out for the same purpose.(AU)

Effects of a mindfulness based intervention in mental health professionals: burnout and stress symptoms at work

INTRODUCTION The work of mental health care professionals involves coping with stressful situations that may lead to the development of the burnout syndrome. Studies of prevalence of burnout in this population indicate a variation between 21% and 67%. Mindfulness-based intervention programs have presented promising results in reducing stress in health care professionals. The present study aims to investigate the effects of a mindfulness course on mental health professionals from a public institution in the interior of São Paulo. METHOD A non-randomized and uncontrolled clinical trial with a sample of 20 professionals was carried out to measure the participants' level of burnout, mindfulness and self-compassion before, after and four months after the intervention, through five instruments: 1) Questionnaire of Type and Volume of mindfulness practice, 2) Maslach Burnout Inventory, 3) Burnout Clinical Subtypes Questionnaire, 4) Mindfulness Awareness and Attention Scale and 5) Self Compassion Scale. The data were tabulated and analyzed by the SPSS-19 program. RESULTS The socio-demographic profile of the participants indicates a female majority (100%), with high education (76%), in a statutory work regime (81%) with a partial working day scheme (61.9%) and acting directly in the patient care (81%). On average, professionals attended 8 out of 9 course sessions. After the intervention, there was an increase in the level of mindfulness (mean before: 58.14 and mean after: 66.80), in the level of self-compassion (mean before: 81.76 and mean after: 97.95) and the reduction of the negative factors of this last scale. Regarding burnout levels, there were no significant changes except for the reduction of a factor related to lack of development. The deepening of the analysis may show correlations between these variables and other measures related to socio demographic aspects and the type and volume of practice.(AU)

How does a meditation course impact on the empathy level of medical students?

Objective: To investigate the empathy levels throughout the years of graduation on medical students before and after a course of Stress Reduction and Empathy Development (REDEMED). METHODThe course was comprised of eight two hour meetings, where meditation practices and group activities focused on interpersonal skills were proposed. Thirty-one students who completed the course composed the active group, while 29 students were in the control group. RESULTSThe mean scores of the JSE-S for the active group before and after the course were, respectively: 1st year: 118.5 and 123; 2nd year: 120 and 124; 3rd year: 123 and 126; 4th year: 122.5 and 131; 5th and 6th years: 128 and 127. In the control group, the mean initial scores and the scores after 9 weeks were: 1st year: 120.5 and 115; 2nd year: 115 and 118; 3rd year: 114 and 116; 4th: 111.5 and 114.5; 5th and 6th years: 116 and 115. When analyzing by graduation year, the first year of medical school was the only group that presented a significant difference in change of JSE-S (p: 0.001) when compared to the control group of the same year. DISCUSSION Completing the REDEMED course proved to be effective in the development of empathy among students.(AU)

A stress reduction course impact on medical students of different graduation years

OBJECTIVE To investigate the impact of a stress reduction and empathy development course (REDEMED) on perceived stress levels of medical students in different undergraduate years. METHOD Medical students from the 1st to the 6th year were invited to an initial lecture in which the REDEMED course program was presented (8 weekly meetings of 2 hours duration about interpersonal experiences and meditation). Stakeholders comprised the active group (n = 31) and other volunteer students constituted the control group (n = 29). RESULTSThe mean scores in the PSS of the active group at week 0 and at week 9 were, respectively: 1st year (34.5 and 24); 2nd year (30 and 22); 3rd year (34 and 24) 4th (27.5 and 20); 5th and 6th year combined (27 and 25). In the control group, the initial and final mean scores were respectively: 1st year (27 and 29); 2nd year (28 and 25) 3rd year (26 and 24); 4th (30.5 and 27.5); 5th and 6th combined (30 and 25). The first year of medical school students was the only group that presented a significant stress variation (p: 0.000) when compared to the control group of the same year. DISCUSSIONThis strategy could be used in undergraduate medical coursesto help on stress symptoms reduction especially at the beginningof the course when it presented greater impact. (AU)

Pró-Saúde e PET-Saúde como espaços de educação interprofissional / Pro-Health and PET-Health as interprofessional education spaces / Pro-Salud y PET-Salud como espacios de educación interprofesional

Este artigo pretende refletir sobre o Programa Nacional de Reorientação da Formação Profissional em Saúde (Pró-Saúde), articulado ao Programa de Educação pelo Trabalho para a Saúde (PET-Saúde) como cenário mobilizador para a adoção da educação interprofissional a partir dos desafios identificados nas instituições de Ensino Superior (IES) pelos participantes do PROPET. Os dados foram produzidos a partir de relatórios das IES e de assessores do Ministério da Saúde, via plataforma FORMSUS. A análise dos dados consistiu de uma sistematização quantitativa e análise de conteúdo. Emergiram como temas: concepções e práticas na educação interprofissional: multi ou inter? Educação Interprofissional e PROPET: desvelando potências. A análise indica que o PROPET vem induzindo novas formas de interação entre cursos envolvidos e seus atores, em cenários reais, enfrentando importantes pontos nevrálgicos da formação em saúde: a articulação ensino/serviço e a qualificação para o trabalho em equipe.

This paper aims to reflect on the National Reorientation Program for Health Professional Education (Pro-Health), as articulated with the Education by Work for Health Program (PET-Health); this was the main mobilizing set for interprofessional education adoption based on the challenges identified in the higher education institutions (HEI) that participated in PROPET. The data were obtained from reports (educational institutions and advisers of the Ministry of Health) using the FORMSUS platform. The data analysis consisted of a quantitative systematization and content analysis. It was emerged as themes: concepts and practices in interprofessional education: multi or inter? Interprofessional education and PROPET: unveiling potencies. The analysis indicated that PROPET induced new ways of interaction between the courses and their agents that were involved in real-life scenarios and identified important key points of health education, such as the articulation between education/health service and qualifications for teamwork.

Este articulo pretende reflexionar sobre el Programa Nacional de Reorientación de la Formación Profesional en Salud (Pro-Salud), vinculado al Programa de Educación en el Trabajo para la Salud (PET-Salud) como marco movilizador para la adopción de la educación interprofesional, a partir de los retos identificados en las instituciones de educación superior (IES) participantes en el PROPET. Se investigó a partir de informes de las IES y de asesores del Ministerio de Salud, utilizando la plataforma FORMSUS. El análisis de datos comprendió la sistematización cuantitativa y el análisis de contenido. Emergieron como temas: “Concepciones y prácticas en la educación interprofesional (EIP): ¿multi o inter?” así como” EIP y PROPET: identificando fortalezas. El análisis mostró que el PROPET viene induciendo nuevas formas de interacción entre los cursos involucrados y sus actores, en entornos reales, encarando puntos neurálgicos de la formación en salud: articulación enseñanza/servicio y cualificación para el trabajo en equipo.