Comparison of Cardiovascular Health Profiles Across Population Surveys From 5 High- to Low-Income Countries.

Background: To facilitate the shift from risk-factor management to primordial prevention of cardiovascular disease, the American Heart Association developed guidelines to score and track cardiovascular health (CVH). How the prevalence and trajectories of a high level of CVH across the life course compare among high- and lower-income countries is unknown. Methods: Nationally representative survey data with CVH variables (physical activity, cigarette smoking, body mass index, blood pressure, blood glucose, and total cholesterol levels) were identified in Ethiopia, Bangladesh, Brazil, England, and the US for adults (aged 18-69 years and not pregnant). Data were harmonized, and CVH metrics were scored using the American Heart Association guidelines, as high (2), moderate (1), or low (0), with the prevalence of high scores (better CVH) across the life course compared across countries. Results: Among 28,092 adults (Ethiopia n = 7686, 55.2% male; Bangladesh n = 6731, 48.4% male; Brazil n = 7241, 47.9% male; England n = 2691, 49.5% male, and the US n = 3743, 50.3% male), the prevalence of high CVH scores decreased as country income level increased. Declining CVH with age was universal across countries, but differences were already observable in those aged 18 years. Excess body weight appeared to be the main driver of poor CVH in higher-income countries, and the prevalence of current smoking was highest in Bangladesh. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that CVH decline with age may be universal. Interventions to promote and preserve CVH throughout the life course are needed in all populations, tailored to country-specific time courses of the decline. In countries where the level of CVH remains relatively high, protection of whole societies from risk-factor epidemics may still be feasible.

Contexte: Afin de faciliter la transition de la prise en charge des facteurs de risque vers la prévention primordiale des maladies cardiovasculaires, l'American Heart Association a élaboré des lignes directrices en vue de mesurer la santé cardiovasculaire (SCV) et d'en faire le suivi. On ignore dans quelle mesure la prévalence et la trajectoire d'un niveau élevé de SCV au cours d'une vie se comparent entre les pays à revenu élevé et les pays à plus faible revenu. Méthodologie: Des résultats de sondages représentatifs des pays concernant les variables de la SCV (activité physique, tabagisme, indice de masse corporelle, pression artérielle, glycémie et taux de cholestérol total) ont été obtenus de l'Éthiopie, du Bangladesh, du Brésil, de l'Angleterre et des États-Unis, pour des adultes âgés de 18 à 69 ans, excluant les femmes enceintes. Les données ont été harmonisées, et la SCV a été mesurée conformément aux lignes directrices de l'American Heart Association, et notée en fonction des scores suivants : élevée (2), modérée (1) ou faible (0). La prévalence de scores élevés, soit une meilleure SCV tout au long de la vie, a été comparée entre les pays. Résultats: Parmi 28 092 adultes (Éthiopie, n = 7 686, 55,2 % de sexe masculin; Bangladesh, n = 6 731, 48,4 % de sexe masculin; Brésil, n = 7 241, 47,9 % de sexe masculin; Angleterre, n = 2 691, 49,5 % de sexe masculin, et États-Unis, n = 3 743, 50,3 % de sexe masculin), la prévalence de scores correspondant à une SCV élevée diminuait à mesure que le niveau de revenu du pays augmentait. La diminution de la SCV avec l'âge était universelle dans tous les pays, mais des différences étaient déjà observables chez les personnes âgées de 18 ans. Un surplus de poids corporel semblait être le principal facteur d'une faible SCV dans les pays à revenu plus élevé; la prévalence d'un tabagisme actuel était la plus élevée au Bangladesh. Conclusions: Nos observations laissent croire que le déclin de la SCV avec l'âge pourrait être universel. Il est nécessaire de mener des interventions adaptées à la progression du déclin dans chacun des pays en vue de favoriser et de préserver la SCV tout au long de la vie, et ce, dans toutes les populations. Dans les pays où le niveau de SCV demeure relativement élevé, il pourrait être encore possible de protéger des sociétés entières contre des épidémies liées aux facteurs de risque.

Comparison of cardiovascular health profiles across population surveys from five high- to low-income countries.

Aims: With the greatest burden of cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality increasingly observed in lower-income countries least prepared for this epidemic, focus is widening from risk factor management alone to primordial prevention to maintain high levels of cardiovascular health (CVH) across the life course. To facilitate this, the American Heart Association (AHA) developed CVH scoring guidelines to evaluate and track CVH. We aimed to compare the prevalence and trajectories of high CVH across the life course using nationally representative adult CVH data from five diverse high- to low-income countries. Methods: Surveys with CVH variables (physical activity, cigarette smoking, body mass, blood pressure, blood glucose, and total cholesterol levels) were identified in Ethiopia, Bangladesh, Brazil, England, and the United States (US). Participants were included if they were 18-69y, not pregnant, and had data for these CVH metrics. Comparable data were harmonized and each of the CVH metrics was scored using AHA guidelines as high (2), moderate (1), or low (0) to create total CVH scores with higher scores representing better CVH. High CVH prevalence by age was compared creating country CVH trajectories. Results: The analysis included 28,092 adults (Ethiopia n=7686, 55.2% male; Bangladesh n=6731, 48.4% male; Brazil n=7241, 47.9 % male; England n=2691, 49.5% male, and the US n=3743, 50.3% male). As country income level increased, prevalence of high CVH decreased (>90% in Ethiopia, >68% in Bangladesh and under 65% in the remaining countries). This pattern remained using either five or all six CVH metrics and following exclusion of underweight participants. While a decline in CVH with age was observed for all countries, higher income countries showed lower prevalence of high CVH already by age 18y. Excess body weight appeared the main driver of poor CVH in higher income countries, while current smoking was highest in Bangladesh. Conclusion: Harmonization of nationally representative survey data on CVH trajectories with age in 5 highly diverse countries supports our hypothesis that CVH decline with age may be universal. Interventions to promote and preserve high CVH throughout the life course are needed in all populations, tailored to country-specific time courses of the decline. In countries where CVH remains relatively high, protection of whole societies from risk factor epidemics may still be feasible.

Cardiovascular health metrics in low and middle-income countries: A scoping review.

BACKGROUND: In 2010 the American Heart Association defined the concept of ideal cardiovascular health to renew the focus on primordial prevention for cardiovascular disease. Evidence primarily from high-income countries suggests ideal CVH prevalence is low and decreases with age, with vulnerable populations differentially affected. We aimed to identify and characterize the evidence relevant to CVH metrics in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). METHODS: We followed the Joanna Briggs Institute guideline for the conduct of this scoping review. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, LILACS and study registers from inception to 14 March 2022. We included cross-sectional and cohort studies in populations representing a geographically-defined unit (urban or rural) in LMICs, and with data on CVH metrics i.e. all health or clinical factors (cholesterol, blood pressure, glycemia and body mass index) and at least one health behavior (smoking, diet or physical activity). We report findings following the PRISMA-Scr extension for scoping reviews. RESULTS: We included 251 studies; 85% were cross-sectional. Most studies (70.9%) came from just ten countries. Only 6.8% included children younger than 12 years old. Only 34.7% reported seven metrics; 25.1%, six. Health behaviors were mostly self-reported; 45.0% of studies assessed diet, 58.6% physical activity, and 90.0% smoking status. CONCLUSIONS: We identified a substantial and heterogeneous body of research presenting CVH metrics in LMICs. Few studies assessed all components of CVH, especially in children and in low-income settings. This review will facilitate the design of future studies to bridge the evidence gap. This scoping review protocol was previously registered on OSF: https://osf.io/sajnh.

Planificación anticipada de los cuidados y del uso de recursos hospitalarios en pacientes con COVID-19 en un programa de atención integrada para adultos mayores frágiles en residencias / Advance care planning and use of health resources among COVID-19 nursing home patients in an integrated health care program for frail elders

Objetivos: Evaluar la magnitud y la trascendencia de un proceso de estratificación y planificación anticipada de los cuidados y el uso de recursos hospitalarios en pacientes con COVID-19 en un programa de atención integrada para pacientes adultos mayores frágiles en residencias. Material y métodos: Estudio de cohorte prospectiva de pacientes >64 años con COVID-19 en un programa en residencias, desde marzo a septiembre de 2020. Se evaluó la identificación de pacientes con necesidad de abordaje paliativo (NECPAL positivo), la realización de la planificación anticipada del cuidado y su registro visible en la historia clínica electrónica. Se evaluó la utilización de cuidados intensivos. Resultados: Trescientos setenta y cuatro pacientes tuvieron COVID-19: el 88% eran mujeres, mediana de edad 88 años. El 79% tenían necesidades de abordaje paliativo, de los cuales el 68% tenía registrada la planificación anticipada del cuidado (p<0,001) en su historia clínica electrónica. Solamente el 1% de los pacientes con necesidad de abordaje paliativo con criterios de severidad utilizó cuidados intensivos. La mortalidad global fue del 25%. De los fallecidos, el 74% tenían criterios de severidad (p<0,001) y el 90% tenían necesidad de abordaje paliativo (p<0,001). Conclusiones: Realizar un proceso de atención basado en la estratificación e identificación de pacientes con necesidad de abordaje paliativo y la planificación anticipada del cuidado, con registro en un lugar central y visible de la historia clínica electrónica, podría mejorar la calidad y la seguridad de la atención, adecuando los recursos a las necesidades del paciente en todo momento y especialmente en situaciones de emergencia sanitaria. (AU)

Objectives: To estimate the magnitude and importance of a process of stratification and advance care planning and the use of health resources, among patients in an integrated health care program for frail elderls in nursing homes,that were referred to the hospital with COVID-19. Material and methods: Prospective cohort study of patients >64 years old with COVID-19 infection, in a health care program in nursing homes (from 3/15/2020 to 9/15/2020). The identification of patients with palliative needs, the performing and visible registration in electronic health records of the advance care planning and the use of intensive care were assessed. Results: We included 374 COVID-19 patients. 88% were women, the median age was 88 years old. The 79% were patients with palliative needs, of which 68% had the advance care planning (P<.001) registered in the electronic health record. Only 1% of patients with palliative needs and severity criteria were admitted to the intensive care unit. Overall mortality was 25%. Of those who died, 74% had severity criteria (P<.001) and 90% had palliative needs (P<.001). Conclusions: Carrying out a care process based on identification of patients with palliative needs and advance care planning and a central and visible registration of advance care planning in health records, could improve the quality and safety of care and optimize the use of intensive care health resources at all times and especially in public health emergencies. (AU)

[Advance care planning and use of health resources among COVID-19 nursing home patients in an integrated health care program for frail elders]. / Planificación anticipada de los cuidados y del uso de recursos hospitalarios en pacientes con COVID-19 en un programa de atención integrada para adultos mayores frágiles en residencias.

OBJECTIVES: To estimate the magnitude and importance of a process of stratification and advance care planning and the use of health resources, among patients in an integrated health care program for frail elderls in nursing homes,that were referred to the hospital with COVID-19. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Prospective cohort study of patients >64 years old with COVID-19 infection, in a health care program in nursing homes (from 3/15/2020 to 9/15/2020). The identification of patients with palliative needs, the performing and visible registration in electronic health records of the advance care planning and the use of intensive care were assessed. RESULTS: We included 374 COVID-19 patients. 88% were women, the median age was 88 years old. The 79% were patients with palliative needs, of which 68% had the advance care planning (P<.001) registered in the electronic health record. Only 1% of patients with palliative needs and severity criteria were admitted to the intensive care unit. Overall mortality was 25%. Of those who died, 74% had severity criteria (P<.001) and 90% had palliative needs (P<.001). CONCLUSIONS: Carrying out a care process based on identification of patients with palliative needs and advance care planning and a central and visible registration of advance care planning in health records, could improve the quality and safety of care and optimize the use of intensive care health resources at all times and especially in public health emergencies.

[Pillars and lines of action for integrated and people- and community-centered health systemsPilares e linhas de ação para sistemas integrados de saúde centrados nas pessoas e nas comunidades]. / Pilares y líneas de acción para los sistemas de salud integrados y centrados en las personas y las comunidades.

This paper presents the position of the Latin American working group of the International Foundation for Integrated Care (IFIC). The working group brings together various Latin American actors and organizations in support of actions that facilitate the transformation of health systems in the region towards integrated systems that focus on people not as isolated individuals but as subjects of law in the complex social and environmental contexts where they live and interact. The working group proposes nine pillars of integrated care to be used as a conceptual framework for policy development and changes in practices: 1) shared vision and values; 2) population health; 3) people and communities as partners; 4) resilient communities; 5) capacities of human resources for health; 6) governance and leadership; 7) digital solutions; 8) aligned payment systems; and 9) public transparency. Based on these pillars, lines of work are proposed to strengthen alliances and networks, advocacy, research, and capacity-building, in order to help develop health and social systems that are effectively integrated and focused not only on people but also on communities in Latin America.

Este artigo apresenta o posicionamento do grupo de trabalho latino-americano da Fundação Internacional de Cuidados Integrados (1) (IFIC, na sigla em inglês). A IFIC reúne diversos atores e organizações da América Latina com o fim de apoiar ações que facilitem a transformação dos sistemas de saúde na região para sistemas integrados e centrados nas pessoas, não como indivíduos isolados, mas como sujeitos de direito, nos complexos contextos sociais e ambientais em que vivem e participam. O grupo de trabalho propõe nove pilares de atenção integrada a serem utilizados como marco conceitual na elaboração de políticas e de mudanças nas práticas: 1) visão e valores compartilhados, 2) saúde das populações, 3) pessoas e comunidades como parceiros, 4) comunidades resilientes, 5) capacitação de talento humano em saúde, 6) governança e liderança, 7) soluções digitais, 8) sistemas de pagamento alinhados e 9) transparência perante a população. Com base nesses pilares, são propostas linhas de trabalho nas áreas de fortalecimento de alianças e redes, incidência política, pesquisa e capacitação, que contribuam para materializar na América Latina sistemas sociais e de saúde efetivamente integrados e centrados não só nas pessoas, como também nas comunidades.

Rural-Urban Differences in Diabetes Care and Control in 42 Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Cross-sectional Study of Nationally Representative Individual-Level Data.

OBJECTIVE: Diabetes prevalence is increasing rapidly in rural areas of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), but there are limited data on the performance of health systems in delivering equitable and effective care to rural populations. We therefore assessed rural-urban differences in diabetes care and control in LMICs. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: We pooled individual-level data from nationally representative health surveys in 42 countries. We used Poisson regression models to estimate age-adjusted differences in the proportion of individuals with diabetes in rural versus urban areas achieving performance measures for the diagnosis, treatment, and control of diabetes and associated cardiovascular risk factors. We examined differences across the pooled sample, by sex, and by country. RESULTS: The pooled sample from 42 countries included 840,110 individuals (35,404 with diabetes). Compared with urban populations with diabetes, rural populations had ∼15-30% lower relative risk of achieving performance measures for diabetes diagnosis and treatment. Rural populations with diagnosed diabetes had a 14% (95% CI 5-22%) lower relative risk of glycemic control, 6% (95% CI -5 to 16%) lower relative risk of blood pressure control, and 23% (95% CI 2-39%) lower relative risk of cholesterol control. Rural women with diabetes had lower achievement of performance measures relating to control than urban women, whereas among men, differences were small. CONCLUSIONS: Rural populations with diabetes experience substantial inequities in the achievement of diabetes performance measures in LMICs. Programs and policies aiming to strengthen global diabetes care must consider the unique challenges experienced by rural populations.

[Mapping strategy for health and wellbeing community assets in the city of Buenos Aires]. / Estrategia de mapeo de activos comunitarios para la salud y el bienestar en la ciudad de Buenos Aires.

Introduction: implementing an asset model in large urban territories is a great challenge. The objective was to develop and evaluate community asset (CA) mapping strategies in a large city. Methods: mixed technique, in phases. At first, community resources (CR) were collected through interviews with key informants, search of information sources and field surveys with university students and community volunteers in some pilot neighborhoods. In the second phase, a mass communication campaign was carried out to disseminate the collaborative virtual map. Assets were validated according to eligibility criteria. Campaign evaluation was carried out through indicators of visualization, interaction and participation. In a third phase, community work in the field was reinforced in different neighborhoods. Results: 1144 CR and CA were identified, all of them validated, classified and grouped into five categories. A month after launching the communication campaign "#MeHaceBienMiBarrio," it had been broadcast in the main media in the country. In just two weeks, 120,383 people had been reached with the news on Facebook, and 9,213 had interacted. By then, the map had more than 23,000 views and 87 new community assets were received. The participation rate fell as diffusion decreased. Discussion: The first stage was positive in terms of dissemination and interaction with the map. Field work is essential to sustain and enhance results.

Introducción: Implementar un modelo de activos en amplios territorios urbanos es un gran desafío. El objetivo fue desarrollar y evaluar estrategias de mapeo de recursos y activos en una gran ciudad. Métodos: técnica mixta, en fases. En la primera, se relevaron recursos con entrevistas a informantes clave, búsqueda en fuentes de información y relevamiento en terreno con alumnos universitarios y voluntarios de la comunidad en algunos barrios piloto. En la segunda fase se realizó una campaña de comunicación masiva para difundir el mapa virtual colaborativo. Se validaron los activos según criterios de elegibilidad. La evaluación de la campaña se realizó mediante indicadores de visualización, interacción y participación. En una tercera fase se reforzará el trabajo comunitario en terreno en distintos barrios. Resultados: se identificaron 1144 recursos y activos, todos ellos validados, clasificados y agrupados en cinco categorías. Al mes de iniciada la campaña de comunicación "#MeHaceBienMiBarrio", se había difundido en los principales medios de comunicación del país. En sólo dos semanas, 120.383 personas habían sido alcanzadas con la noticia en Facebook, y 9.213 habían interactuado. Para entonces, el mapa tenía más de 23.000 visitas y se recibieron 87 nuevos activos de la comunidad. La tasa de participación bajó al bajar la difusión. Discusión: la primera etapa fue positiva en difusión e interacción con el mapa. Es fundamental el trabajo en terreno para sostener y potenciar los resultados.

Pilares y líneas de acción para los sistemas de salud integrados y centrados en las personas y las comunidades

[RESUMEN]. Se presenta el posicionamiento del grupo de trabajo latinoamericano de la Fundación Internacional para los Cuidados Integrados (1) (IFIC, por su sigla en inglés). Este reúne a diversos actores y organizaciones de América Latina, con el objeto de apoyar acciones que faciliten la transformación de los sistemas de salud en la Región hacia sistemas integrados y centrados en las personas, no como individuos aislados, sino como sujetos de derecho, en los contextos sociales y ambientales complejos donde viven y se vinculan. El grupo de trabajo plantea nueve pilares de la atención integrada para ser utilizados como marco conceptual en la elaboración de políticas y de cambios en las prácticas: 1) visión y valores compartidos, 2) salud de las poblaciones, 3) las personas y las comunidades como socias, 4) comunidades resilientes, 5) capacidades del talento humano en salud, 6) gobernanza y liderazgo, 7) soluciones digitales, 8) sistemas de pago alineados, y 9) transparencia ante la ciudadanía. Desde estos pilares se proponen líneas de trabajo en los ámbitos del fortalecimiento de alianzas y redes, la abogacía, la investigación y generación de capacidades, que contribuyan a materializar sistemas de salud y sociales efectivamente integrados y centrados no solo en las personas, sino también en las comunidades en América Latina.

[ABSTRACT]. This paper presents the position of the Latin American working group of the International Foundation for Integrated Care (IFIC). The working group brings together various Latin American actors and organizations in support of actions that facilitate the transformation of health systems in the region towards integrated systems that focus on people not as isolated individuals but as subjects of law in the complex social and environmental contexts where they live and interact. The working group proposes nine pillars of integrated care to be used as a conceptual framework for policy development and changes in practices: 1) shared vision and values; 2) population health; 3) people and communities as partners; 4) resilient communities; 5) capacities of human resources for health; 6) governance and leadership; 7) digital solutions; 8) aligned payment systems; and 9) public transparency. Based on these pillars, lines of work are proposed to strengthen alliances and networks, advocacy, research, and capacity-building, in order to help develop health and social systems that are effectively integrated and focused not only on people but also on communities in Latin America.

[RESUMO]. Este artigo apresenta o posicionamento do grupo de trabalho latino-americano da Fundação Internacional de Cuidados Integrados (1) (IFIC, na sigla em inglês). A IFIC reúne diversos atores e organizações da América Latina com o fim de apoiar ações que facilitem a transformação dos sistemas de saúde na região para sistemas integrados e centrados nas pessoas, não como indivíduos isolados, mas como sujeitos de direito, nos complexos contextos sociais e ambientais em que vivem e participam. O grupo de trabalho propõe nove pilares de atenção integrada a serem utilizados como marco conceitual na elaboração de políticas e de mudanças nas práticas: 1) visão e valores compartilhados, 2) saúde das populações, 3) pessoas e comunidades como parceiros, 4) comunidades resilientes, 5) capacitação de talento humano em saúde, 6) governança e liderança, 7) soluções digitais, 8) sistemas de pagamento alinhados e 9) transparência perante a população. Com base nesses pilares, são propostas linhas de trabalho nas áreas de fortalecimento de alianças e redes, incidência política, pesquisa e capacitação, que contribuam para materializar na América Latina sistemas sociais e de saúde efetivamente integrados e centrados não só nas pessoas, como também nas comunidades.

Geriatric co-management and interdisciplinary transitional care reduced hospital readmissions in frail older patients in Argentina: results from a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Hospitalization is a moment of extreme vulnerability for frail older adults. There is scarce evidence on the effectiveness of geriatric co-management or transitional care interventions in Latin America. AIMS: To assess whether geriatric co-management combined with an interdisciplinary transitional care intervention could reduce 30-day hospital readmission rate compared to usual care in hospitalized frail older patients in a tertiary hospital in Argentina. METHODS: Single-blinded randomized controlled trial. Usual care treatment arm: all procedures performed during hospitalization were overseen by a senior internal medicine specialist and complied with pre-defined protocols. Patients had access to specialist care if needed, as well as hospital-at-home or home-based primary care services after discharge. Intervention treatment arm: in addition to usual care, a geriatric co-management team performed a comprehensive geriatric assessment during hospitalization, provided tailored recommendations to minimize geriatric syndromes and planned transition of care. A health and social care counselor oversaw continuity of care in patients' homes after discharge. RESULTS: We included 120 participants in each of the intervention and usual care (control) arms. Thirty-day hospital readmissions were 47.7% lower in the intervention arm (18.3% vs 35.0%; P = 0.040); and emergency room visits within the first 6 months after discharge were 27.8% lower (43.3% vs 60.0%; P = 0.010). There was a non-statistically significant decrease in 6-month mortality in the intervention arm (25.0% vs 35.0%; P = 0.124). CONCLUSION: Geriatric co-management of frail older patients during hospitalization combined with an interdisciplinary transitional care intervention reduced 30-day hospital readmissions and emergency visits 6 months after discharge. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: Trial registration number: RENIS IS003081.

Criterios de Beers para identificar el consumo de medicación potencialmente inapropiada: adaptación para su aplicación en Argentina / Beers criteria to identify the consumption of potentially inappropriate medication: adaptation for its application inArgentina

Introducción. Los Criterios de Beers son los más utilizados para evaluar el uso de medicación potencialmente inapropiada en grandes poblaciones, pero no contemplan algunos medicamentos de uso frecuente fuera de los EE.UU. Objetivo. Realizar una adaptación al contexto de Argentina de los Criterios de Beers publicados en 2019. Métodos. Fue elaborada una lista preliminar de medicación potencialmente inapropiada adaptada a la comercialización local, que luego fue consensuada por un panel de expertos (método Delphi). Resultados. De los 112 medicamentos originales listados en la tabla dos de los Criterios de Beers (en forma individual o como grupo), fueron excluidos 36 por no estar disponibles el país y fueron sumados 23 que no se comercializan en los EE.UU. pero sí en Argentina. Luego de dos rondas y de consensuar la suma a esta lista de dos grupos farmacológicos(antimigrañosos y vasodilatadores periféricos), fue acordado el agregado de picosulfato, bisacodilo, senósidos y cáscara sagrada como medicación potencialmente inapropiada en el grupo de agentes contra el estreñimiento, la fluoxetina entre los inhibidores selectivos de la recaptación de serotonina y el Ginkgo biloba como droga contra la demencia. También hubo consenso en advertir el riesgo de hipotensión ortostática asociado a la tamsulosina, en aconsejar la consideración de la carga anticolinérgica total del esquema terapéutico administrado y en recomendar al paracetamol como primera línea de tratamiento del dolor, asociado o no a opioides. Conclusiones. Contar con una versión de los Criterios de Beers 2019 adaptada al contexto de Argentina contribuirá al desarrollo y monitoreo de intervenciones para prevenir y reducir el consumo de medicación potencialmente inapropiada. (AU)

Introduction.The Beers Criteria is the most widely used criteria to assess the use of potentially inappropriate medication in large populations, but they do not include some medications that are frequently used outside the United States. Objective.To make an adaptation of the Beers Criteria published in 2019 to the context of Argentina. Methods. A preliminary list of potentially inappropriate medication adapted to local market and practice was designed, which was then agreed upon by a panel of experts (Delphi method). Results. Of the 112 original drugs in the table 2 of the Beers Criteria (individually or as a group), 36 were excluded because they were not available in Argentina and 23 locally marketed drugs but not in the US were included. After two rounds and agreeing to add two additional pharmacological groups to this list (antimigraine and peripheral vasodilators), it was decided to add picosulfate, bisacodyl, sennosides and cascara sagrada as potentially inappropriate medication in the group of anti-constipation agents, fluoxetine among. the selective serotonin reup take inhibitors and Ginkgo biloba as an anti-dementia drug. There was also consensus in warning about the risk of orthostatic hypotension associated with tamsulosin,in advising consideration of the total anticholinergic load of the therapeutic regimen administered, and in recommending paracetamol as the first line of pain treatment, associated or not with opioids. Conclusions. Having a version of the Beers Criteria 2019 adapted to the Argentine context will contribute to the development and monitoring of interventions to prevent and reduce the consumption of potentially inappropriate medication. (AU)

Pilares y líneas de acción para los sistemas de salud integrados y centrados en las personas y las comunidades / Pillars and lines of action for integrated and people- and community-centered health systems / Pilares e linhas de ação para sistemas integrados de saúde centrados nas pessoas e nas comunidades

RESUMEN Se presenta el posicionamiento del grupo de trabajo latinoamericano de la Fundación Internacional para los Cuidados Integrados (1) (IFIC, por su sigla en inglés). Este reúne a diversos actores y organizaciones de América Latina, con el objeto de apoyar acciones que faciliten la transformación de los sistemas de salud en la Región hacia sistemas integrados y centrados en las personas, no como individuos aislados, sino como sujetos de derecho, en los contextos sociales y ambientales complejos donde viven y se vinculan. El grupo de trabajo plantea nueve pilares de la atención integrada para ser utilizados como marco conceptual en la elaboración de políticas y de cambios en las prácticas: 1) visión y valores compartidos, 2) salud de las poblaciones, 3) las personas y las comunidades como socias, 4) comunidades resilientes, 5) capacidades del talento humano en salud, 6) gobernanza y liderazgo, 7) soluciones digitales, 8) sistemas de pago alineados, y 9) transparencia ante la ciudadanía. Desde estos pilares se proponen líneas de trabajo en los ámbitos del fortalecimiento de alianzas y redes, la abogacía, la investigación y generación de capacidades, que contribuyan a materializar sistemas de salud y sociales efectivamente integrados y centrados no solo en las personas, sino también en las comunidades en América Latina.

ABSTRACT This paper presents the position of the Latin American working group of the International Foundation for Integrated Care (IFIC). The working group brings together various Latin American actors and organizations in support of actions that facilitate the transformation of health systems in the region towards integrated systems that focus on people not as isolated individuals but as subjects of law in the complex social and environmental contexts where they live and interact. The working group proposes nine pillars of integrated care to be used as a conceptual framework for policy development and changes in practices: 1) shared vision and values; 2) population health; 3) people and communities as partners; 4) resilient communities; 5) capacities of human resources for health; 6) governance and leadership; 7) digital solutions; 8) aligned payment systems; and 9) public transparency. Based on these pillars, lines of work are proposed to strengthen alliances and networks, advocacy, research, and capacity-building, in order to help develop health and social systems that are effectively integrated and focused not only on people but also on communities in Latin America.

RESUMO Este artigo apresenta o posicionamento do grupo de trabalho latino-americano da Fundação Internacional de Cuidados Integrados (1) (IFIC, na sigla em inglês). A IFIC reúne diversos atores e organizações da América Latina com o fim de apoiar ações que facilitem a transformação dos sistemas de saúde na região para sistemas integrados e centrados nas pessoas, não como indivíduos isolados, mas como sujeitos de direito, nos complexos contextos sociais e ambientais em que vivem e participam. O grupo de trabalho propõe nove pilares de atenção integrada a serem utilizados como marco conceitual na elaboração de políticas e de mudanças nas práticas: 1) visão e valores compartilhados, 2) saúde das populações, 3) pessoas e comunidades como parceiros, 4) comunidades resilientes, 5) capacitação de talento humano em saúde, 6) governança e liderança, 7) soluções digitais, 8) sistemas de pagamento alinhados e 9) transparência perante a população. Com base nesses pilares, são propostas linhas de trabalho nas áreas de fortalecimento de alianças e redes, incidência política, pesquisa e capacitação, que contribuam para materializar na América Latina sistemas sociais e de saúde efetivamente integrados e centrados não só nas pessoas, como também nas comunidades.

Efectos en adultos mayores de su participación en un proyecto comunitario basado en activos para la salud / Effects on older adults of their participation in a community project based on health assets

Introducción: el envejecimiento poblacional y el incremento de las enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles están generando un gran impacto en los sistemas de salud a nivel mundial. Articular el sistema de salud con los recursos comunitarios es fundamental para poder coordinar la atención sociosanitaria, descomplejizar la atención de los adultos mayores y promover el envejecimiento activo. Nuestro objetivo fue analizar la relación entre la participación de adultos mayores en un proyecto de mapeo de activos para la salud y los efectos percibidos en esta experiencia. Métodos: la intervención consistió en un taller de seis encuentros semanales donde se aprendió a reconocer activos para la salud. Estos fueron volcados en un mapa virtual de acceso libre y gratuito para ser compartido con toda la sociedad. En el taller también se reforzó la importancia de la relación entre los participantes para mejorar los apoyos sociales. Utilizamos un diseño cualitativo de tipo interactivo con una estructura interconectada y flexible de los componentes de la investigación. Se observaron las interacciones y diálogos que se produjeron entre moderadoras-participantes y participantes entre sí, y se incluyeron los registros del cuaderno de campo de las moderadoras. Al finalizar el último encuentro, y cumplidos tres meses, se realizaron entrevistas en profundidad a quienes asistieron, al menos, a la mitad de los encuentros. Se utilizó una guía con preguntas abiertas, para conocer la perspectiva de los participantes acerca de eventuales cambios percibidos a partir de la experiencia vivida en el taller. Los datos se categorizaron y, posteriormente, se triangularon para garantizar la validez del análisis. Resultados: se identificaron las siguientes categorías que sitúan las experiencias de los participantes en relación con su paso por el proyecto: la generación de vínculos entre pares, los vínculos con las moderadoras, la dinámica de taller, la sustentabilidad del proyecto y la resignificación del barrio. Conclusión: es factible generar cambios positivos en la salud de los adultos mayores, potenciar los espacios de socialización y contribuir satisfactoriamente en la resignificación de los barrios a través del mapeo de activos para la salud. (AU)

Introduction: population ageing and the increase in chronic non-communicable diseases are having a major impact on health systems worldwide. Linking the health system with community resources is essential in order to coordinate social and health care, decomplexify the care of older adults and promote active ageing. Our objective was to analyse the relationship between the participation of older adults in a health asset mapping project and the perceived effects of this experience. Methods: the intervention consisted of a workshop of six weekly meetings where participants learned to recognise health assets from the perspective of each participant. These were then uploaded onto a virtual map that could be accessed free of charge and shared with the whole of society. The workshop also reinforced the importance of the relationship between participants to improve social support.We used an interactive qualitative design with an interconnected and flexible structure between the research components. The interactions and dialogues that took place between moderators-participants and participants with each other were observed, and the field notebook records of the moderators were included. At the end of the last meeting, and after three months, in-depth interviews were conducted with those who attended at least half of the meetings. A guide with open-ended questions was used to find out the participants perspective on possible changes perceived as a result of the workshop experience. The data were categorised and then triangulated to ensure the validity of the analysis. Results: the following categories were identified that situate the participants experiences in relation to their time in the project: the generation of links between peers, the links with the moderators, the workshop dynamics, the sustainability of the project and the re-signification of the neighbourhood. Conclusion: it is feasible to generate positive changes in the health of older adults, to strengthen the spaces for socialisation and to successfully contribute to the resignification of the neighbourhoods through the mapping of assets for health. (AU)

Decreased falls through multifactorial intervention in frail older adults / [Disminución de caídas mediante una intervención multifactorial en adultos mayores frágiles]

Frail elders have higher risk of falls, with associated morbidity and mortality. Our objective was to reduce the percentage of falls in frail elders after a multifactorial and systemic intervention. Design: before-after quasi-experimental study, with own individual as control. Scope: patient's living place, in the metropolitan area of ​​Buenos Aires city. Recruitment period: 01/10/2017-31/04/2018. Baseline assessment and 3-month follow-up. Inclusion criteria: ≥65 years with criteria of frailty according to the treating physician. Exclusion criteria: rejection of intervention or dying patient. Intervention: a health and social-care assistant systematically evaluated different dimensions for falls prevention and intervened according to need in each case in: environmental safety, prescription and training in the use of walking aids, strengthening exercises, improvement of the patient's network of care, and medication reconciliation. The change in the percentage of people with falls in the last month (McNemar) was analyzed by intention to treat. We included 108 people. Average age was 85.2 years (SD 6.2). Women: 79.6%. Average Barthel: 50.5 (SD 35.9). Severe or total dependence: 56.8%; dementia: 29.6%; institutionalized: 30.5%; polypharmacy: 82.4%. High risk of falls: 79.6% (95% CI 71.1-86.1). In the initial evaluation, 33.3% had fallen in the last month (95% CI 25.2-42.7). After the intervention, 13.9% (95% CI 8.6-18.6), p <0.001. Previous falls rate: 50/100 people (SD 87); posterior: 11/100 people (SD 34), p <0.001. In conclusion, this multifactorial and systemic intervention in frail elders showed a reduction of people with falls of 41.7%, and a reduction of falls rate of 78%.

Los adultos mayores frágiles (AMF) tienen mayor riesgo de caídas, con morbi-mortalidad asociada. Nuestro objetivo fue disminuir el porcentaje de AMF con caídas luego de una intervención multifactorial y sistémica. Estudio cuasiexperimental antes-después, propio individuo control. Ámbito: domicilio de AMF, en área metropolitana de Buenos Aires. Periodo de reclutamiento: 01/10/17-31/04/18. Evaluación basal y seguimiento a 3 meses. Criterios de inclusión: ≥65 años con criterios de fragilidad según médico tratante. Criterios de exclusión: rechazo de intervención o paciente moribundo. Intervención: un orientador (agente) socio-sanitario evaluó sistemáticamente en domicilio distintas dimensiones para prevención de caídas e intervino según necesidad en cada caso en: seguridad ambiental, indicación y capacitación en uso de apoyos de marcha, ejercicios de fortalecimiento, mejora de la red de cuidado, y conciliación de medicación. Se analizó por intención de tratar el cambio en el porcentaje de personas con caídas en el último mes (McNemar). Incluimos 108 personas, edad promedio 85,2 años (DE 6,2), mujeres 79,6%. Barthel promedio 50,5 (DE 35,9). El 56,8% tenían dependencia severa o total; 29,6% demencia; 30,5% institucionalizados; 82,4% polimedicados. El 79,6% (IC95% 71,1-86,1) tenían alto riesgo de caídas. En evaluación inicial habían sufrido caídas en el último mes 33,3% (IC95% 25,2-42,7). Post intervención, 13,9% (IC95% 8,6-18,6), p<0,001. Tasa de caídas previa: 50/100 personas (DE 87); posterior: 11/100 personas (DE 34), p< 0,001. En conclusión, esta intervención multifactorial y sistémica en AMF mostró reducción de personas con caídas de 41,7%, y  tasa de caídas de 78%.

A multifactorial intervention to lower potentially inappropriate medication use in older adults in Argentina.

BACKGROUND: Adverse drug reactions are a common cause of potentially avoidable harm, particularly in older adults. AIMS: To evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of a pilot multifactorial intervention to reduce potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) use in older adults. METHODS: We conducted a phase 2, feasibility, open-label study in the ambulatory setting of an integrated healthcare network in Buenos Aires, Argentina. We recruited primary care physicians (PCPs) and measured PIM use in a sample of their patients (65 years or older). Educational workshops for PCPs were organized with the involvement of clinician champions. Practical deprescribing algorithms were designed based on Beers criteria. Automatic email alerts based on specific PIMs recorded in each patient's electronic health record were used as a reminder tool. PCPs were responsible for deprescribing decisions. We randomly sampled 879 patients taking PIMs from eight of the most commonly used drug classes at our institution and compared basal (6 months prior to the intervention) and final (12 months after) prevalence of PIM use using a test of proportions. RESULTS: There was a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in all drug classes evaluated. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (basal prevalence 5.92%; final 1.59%); benzodiazepines (10.13%; 6.94%); histamine antagonists (7.74%; 3.07%); opioids (2.16%; 1.25%); tricyclic antidepressants (8.08%; 4.10%); muscle relaxants (7.74%; 3.41%), anti-hypertensives (3.53%; 1.82%) and oxybutynin (2.96%; 1.82%). The absolute reduction in the overall prevalence was 8.5 percentage points (relative reduction of 51.4%). CONCLUSION: This multifactorial intervention is feasible and effective in reducing the use of potentially inappropriate medication in all drug classes evaluated.

[Validation of the Spanish version of the Lubben Social Network Scale-6]. / Validación de la versión en español de la Escala de Red Social Lubben-6.

Social support is an important determinant of health. The Lubben-6 Social Network Scale (LSNS-6) is one of the most used by the international community and its application is simple and brief. To date there are no works that have validated this scale in the Spanish language. Aim: Validate the spanish version of the LSNS-6. Methods: The Spanish version of the questionnaire was generated through the translation, back-translation and transcultural adaptation of the LSNS-6, made with native translators and adapted by a bilingual committee. The construct validity was evaluated using a Confirmatory Factor Analysis. We first considered a single factor (family or friends), and then two factors (family and friends). We compared results using Goodness-of-fit index (GFI). The validity of external criteria was evaluated by correlating the score of the questionnaire with that assigned by a professional counselor trained during an in-depth in-person interview conducted at the patient's home. Results: We interviewed 150 older adults, 54% men; mean age 76.3 years. The GFI presented adequate values ​​for the two-factor model (P Chi2 = 0.069; NFI = 0.97; NNFI = 0.99; RMR st. = 0.03; the RMSEA showed a marginal value, 0.085); While the Pearson correlation was 0.665 (p <0.001). Conclusion: The Spanish version of the LSNS-6 scale is valid and reliable.

Introducción: El apoyo social es un determinante importante de la salud. La Escala de Red Social de Lubben-6 (LSNS-6) es una de las más utilizadas por la comunidad internacional y su aplicación es sencilla y breve. No existen a la fecha trabajos que hayan validado esta escala en el idioma español. Objetivo: Validar al español la escala LSNS-6. Métodos: Fue generada una versión en Español del cuestionario a través de la traducción, retrotraducción y adaptación transcultural del LSNS-6. La ​vali​dez de constructo fue evaluada mediante un Análisis Factorial Confirmatorio, considerando inicialmente un factor y luego dos. Los resultados fueron comparados mediante indicadores de buen ajuste (IBA). La ​va​lidez de criterio externo fue evaluada mediante la correlación del puntaje del cuestionario con el asignado por una orientadora sociosanitaria profesional entrenada durante una entrevista presencial en profundidad realizada en el domicilio del paciente. Resultados: Entrevistamos 150 adultos mayores (54 % hombres; edad media 76,3 años). Los IBA presentaron valores adecuados para el modelo de dos factores; Chi Cuadrado / Grado de libertad 1,81; "p" ajustada al Chi Cuadrado: 0,069; error de aproximación cuadrático medio (RMSEA) 0,085; Indice de ajuste normado (NFI) 0,97; índice de ajuste no normado (NNFI) 0,99; residuo cuadrático medio estandarizado (RMR st) 0,03. La correlación Pearson del puntaje de la versión en español del LSNS-6 con el asignado por la orientadora sociosanitaria fue de 0.665 (p < 0.001). Conclusiones: La versión en español de la escala LSNS-6 es válida y confiable.

Daños colaterales de la pandemia por COVID-19: ¿consecuencias inevitables? / Collateral damage from the COVID-19 pandemic: inevitable consequences?

Esta revisión narrativa describe el daño colateral de la pandemia de COVID-19, tanto en aspectos de la salud, como también sociales, educativos o económicos. Comunicamos el impacto mundial y local. Consideramos que varias de estas consecuencias eran inevitables, especialmente las sucedidas durante los primeros meses de una pandemia que se difundió a gran velocidad y con graves consecuencias directas en la morbimortalidad de la población. Sin embargo, luego de seis meses de su llegada a la Argentina, es oportuno revaluar la situación y replantearse si no se debería cambiar el enfoque para balancear la minimización del impacto directo de COVID-19 junto con la del daño colateral que las medidas para paliarlo produjeron. Es un desafío que no debe limitarse al sistema de salud. Debe encararse con un abordaje intersectorial amplio y con participación activa de la sociedad. Así como aplanamos la curva de COVID-19, cuanto más nos demoremos en aplanar las otras curvas de problemas sanitarios y sociales que se están generando, mayor será su impacto, tanto en el corto como en el largo plazo. (AU)

This narrative review shows the collateral damage of the COVID-19 pandemic, whether in health, social, educational or economic aspects. We report on the impact at the global and local levels. Many of these consequences were inevitable, especially in the first months of a pandemic that spread at great speed and with serious direct consequences on the morbidity and mortality of the population. However, six months after the arrival in our country, it is an opportunity to reassess the situation and rethink whether the approach should not be changed to balance the minimization of the direct impact of COVID-19 with that of the collateral damage that mitigation measures produced. This is a challenge that should not be limited to the health system. It must be addressed with a broad intersectoral approach and active participation of society. Just as we flatten the COVID-19 curve, the longer we delay in flattening the other curves of health and social problems that are being generated, the greater the impact, both in the short and long term. (AU)

Defining the characteristics of intermediate care models including transitional care: an international Delphi study.

BACKGROUND: Although there is growing utilisation of intermediate care to improve the health and well-being of older adults with complex care needs, there is no international agreement on how it is defined, limiting comparability between studies and reducing the ability to scale effective interventions. AIM: To identify and define the characteristics of intermediate care models. METHODS: A scoping review, a modified two-round electronic Delphi study involving 27 multi-professional experts from 13 countries, and a virtual consensus meeting were conducted. RESULTS: Sixty-six records were included in the scoping review, which identified four main themes: transitions, components, benefits and interchangeability. These formed the basis of the first round of the Delphi survey. After Round 2, 16 statements were agreed, refined and collapsed further. Consensus was established for 10 statements addressing the definitions, purpose, target populations, approach to care and organisation of intermediate care models. DISCUSSION: There was agreement that intermediate care represents time-limited services which ensure continuity and quality of care, promote recovery, restore independence and confidence at the interface between home and acute services, with transitional care representing a subset of intermediate care. Models are best delivered by an interdisciplinary team within an integrated health and social care system where a single contact point optimises service access, communication and coordination. CONCLUSIONS: This study identified key defining features of intermediate care to improve understanding and to support comparisons between models and studies evaluating them. More research is required to develop operational definitions for use in different healthcare systems.