Influence of cardiovascular risk factors and treatment exposure on cardiovascular event incidence: Assessment using machine learning algorithms.

Assessment of the influence of cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) on cardiovascular event (CVE) using machine learning algorithms offers some advantages over preexisting scoring systems, and better enables personalized medicine approaches to cardiovascular prevention. Using data from four different sources, we evaluated the outcomes of three machine learning algorithms for CVE prediction using different combinations of predictive variables and analysed the influence of different CVRF-related variables on CVE prediction when included in these algorithms. A cohort study based on a male cohort of workers applying populational data was conducted. The population of the study consisted of 3746 males. For descriptive analyses, mean and standard deviation were used for quantitative variables, and percentages for categorical ones. Machine learning algorithms used were XGBoost, Random Forest and Naïve Bayes (NB). They were applied to two groups of variables: i) age, physical status, Hypercholesterolemia (HC), Hypertension, and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and ii) these variables plus treatment exposure, based on the adherence to the treatment for DM, hypertension and HC. All methods point out to the age as the most influential variable in the incidence of a CVE. When considering treatment exposure, it was more influential than any other CVRF, which changed its influence depending on the model and algorithm applied. According to the performance of the algorithms, the most accurate was Random Forest when treatment exposure was considered (F1 score 0.84), followed by XGBoost. Adherence to treatment showed to be an important variable in the risk of having a CVE. These algorithms could be applied to create models for every population, and they can be used in primary care to manage interventions personalized for every subject.

Evolution of Cardiovascular Risk Factors in a Worker Cohort: A Cluster Analysis.

The identification of the cardiovascular risk factor (CVRF) profile of individual patients is key to the prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD), and the development of personalized preventive approaches. Using data from annual medical examinations in a cohort of workers, the aim of the study was to characterize the evolution of CVRFs and the CVD risk score (SCORE) over three time points between 2009 and 2017. For descriptive analyses, mean, standard deviation, and quartile values were used for quantitative variables, and percentages for categorical ones. Cluster analysis was performed using the Kml3D package in R software. This algorithm, which creates distinct groups based on similarities in the evolution of variables of interest measured at different time points, divided the cohort into 2 clusters. Cluster 1 comprised younger workers with lower mean body mass index, waist circumference, blood glucose values, and SCORE, and higher mean HDL cholesterol values. Cluster 2 had the opposite characteristics. In conclusion, it was found that, over time, subjects in cluster 1 showed a higher improvement in CVRF control and a lower increase in their SCORE, compared with cluster 2. The identification of subjects included in these profiles could facilitate the development of better personalized medical approaches to CVD preventive measures.

Consumo de medicamentos en el embarazo y riesgo de anomalías congénitas en la Comunitat Valenciana / Drugs use in pregnancy in the Valencia Region and the risk of congenital anomalies

Antecedentes: El consumo de medicamentos durante el embarazo se ha incrementado en las últimas décadas. Objetivo: Identificar el riesgo de anomalías congénitas (AC) asociado a la utilización de medicamentos en atención ambulatoria en embarazadas residentes en la Comunitat Valenciana. Métodos: Estudio de casos-controles, considerando caso a menores de un año nacidos vivos en 2009-2010 diagnosticados de AC y residentes en la Comunitat Valenciana, obtenidos del registro poblacional de AC. Los controles se seleccionaron del Registro de Metabolopatías y la medicación prescrita y dispensada se obtuvo del módulo Gestión Integral de Prestación Farmacéutica. Se calcularon las odds ratio (OR) y los intervalos de confianza al 95% y las OR ajustadas mediante regresión logística. Resultados: Se identificaron 1.913 casos y 3.826 controles. Los grupos de medicamentos más frecuentemente prescritos y dispensados fueron: los que actúan sobre los sistemas musculoesquelético, nervioso, respiratorio, sobre la sangre y órganos hematopoyéticos, y antiinfecciosos. Los medicamentos más habituales fueron: ibuprofeno, dexketoprofeno, paracetamol, amoxicilina, sulfato de hierro y una combinación de ácido fólico. Se identificó un aumento del riesgo de anomalías congénitas significativo para los fármacos de acción sobre el sistema musculoesquelético (OR ajustada de 1,14 [intervalo de confianza al 95% 1,02-1,28]). Se observó una disminución del riesgo significativa en el grupo que actúa sobre la sangre y los órganos hematopoyéticos (OR ajustada de 0,87 [intervalo de confianza al 95% 0,78-0,98]). Conclusiones: Se han identificado asociaciones de medicamentos con AC en mujeres embarazadas residentes en la Comunitat Valenciana, tanto para fármacos que actúan como factores de riesgo de AC como para fármacos que actúan como factores protectores de AC (AU)

Background: Despite the potential risks of drug use during pregnancy, consumption has increased in recent decades. Objective: To identify the risk of congenital anomalies (CA) associated with the use of drugs in primary care in pregnant women residents in the Valencia Region. Methods: A case-control study, considering a case as a less than one year old live birth in 2009-2010, diagnosed with a CA and resident in the Valencia Region, obtained from the CA population-based registry. Controls were selected from the Metabolic Disease Registry, and the drugs prescribed and dispensed from the Integral Management of Pharmaceutical Services. Crude odds ratio (OR) was calculated with its 95% confidence intervals and adjusted OR was calculated using logistic regression. Results: A total of 1,913 cases and 3,826 controls were identified. The most frequently used drug groups were those acting on the musculoskeletal, nervous and respiratory systems, on the blood and blood forming organs, and anti-infection drugs. The most common drugs used were ibuprofen, dexketoprofen, paracetamol, amoxicillin, ferrous sulphate, and a combination of folic acid. A significantly increased risk of CA was identified for drugs acting on the musculoskeletal system (adjusted OR 1.14 [95% confidence interval 1.02-1.28]). A significantly decreased risk was observed for drugs acting on the blood and blood forming organs (adjusted OR 0.87 [95% confidence interval 0.78-0.98]). Conclusions: Associations between drugs and CA in pregnant women resident in the Valencia Region have been identified for drugs that act as risk factors of CA, and for drugs that act as protective factors of CA (AU)

La validez del Conjunto Mínimo Básico de Datos como fuente de identificación de las anomalías congénitas en la Comunitat Valenciana / The validity of the Spanish Minimum Basic Data Set to identify congenital anomalies in the Valencian Community (Spain)

Objetivo: Evaluar la validez del Conjunto Mínimo Básico de Datos (CMBD) para identificar anomalías congénitas mayores en la Comunitat Valenciana. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio epidemiológico retrospectivo. Del CMBD se seleccionaron las altas en menores de un año nacidos en 2007, residentes en la Comunitat Valenciana con código de anomalía congénita (740-759 CIE9-MC) y una muestra aleatoria de menores de un año sin altas con estos códigos. Tras revisar la documentación clínica, se clasificaron como verdaderos positivos y negativos y falsos positivos y negativos. Se calcularon el valor predictivo positivo y negativo y la sensibilidad. Se analizaron la concordancia de los diagnósticos entre el CMBD y la documentación clínica utilizando la prueba kappa. Resultados: Se identificaron 2305 altas de 1651 pacientes. En los 544 pacientes de la muestra, 4 tenían alguna anomalía congénita mayor. El valor predictivo positivo fue del 56,4% (intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC95%]: 53,9-58,8) y el negativo fue del 99,3% (IC95%: 98,6-100,0). La sensibilidad del CMBD fue del 68,6% (IC95%: 66,1-71,1). Los códigos más frecuentes en los verdaderos positivos fueron: 745.5 (Comunicación interauricular), 745.4 (Comunicación interventricular) y 747.0 (Ductus arterioso persistente), y en los falsos positivos: 747.0, 745.5 y 752.51 (Criptorquidia). El 25,5% de los diagnósticos con anomalía congénita del CMBD no estaban en la historia clínica. Considerando todos los diagnósticos codificados en el CMBD, la concordancia fue de 0,70 (IC95%: 0,68-0,72). Conclusiones: El CMBD es la principal fuente de información para la identificación de casos para el Registro Poblacional de Anomalías Congénitas de la Comunitat Valenciana, pero su principal limitación es el elevado número de casos falsos positivos que detecta (AU)

Objective: To assess the validity of the Spanish Minimum Basic Data Set (MBDS) for identifying major congenital anomalies in the Valencian Community. Methods: A retrospective epidemiological study was carried out. Children under the age of one year, born in 2007 and residing in the Valencian Community with congenital anomalies code 740-759 CIE9-MC, were selected from the MBDS, in addition to a random sample of children under the age of 1 year without these discharge codes. Having reviewed the clinical documentation, the cases were classified as true positives and negatives and false positives and negatives. Positive and negative predictive value and sensitivity were calculated. The kappa test was applied to analyse diagnostic consistency between the MBDS and the clinical documentation. Results: A total of 2305 discharges of 1651 patients were identified. 4 out of the 5434 patients sampled had a major congenital abnormality. The positive predictive value was 56.4% (95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 53.9-58.8) and the negative predictive value was 99.3% (95%CI: 98.6-100.0). MBDS sensitivity was 68.6% (95%CI: 66.1-71.1). The most common codes in the true positives were: 745.5 (atrial septal defect), 745.4 (ventricular septal defect) and 747.0 (patent ductus arteriosus) and in the false positives: 747.0, 745.5 and 752.51 (cryptorchidism). 25.5% of diagnoses with congenital anomaly from the MBDS were not in the clinical documentation. Considering all diagnoses coded in the MBDS, the correlation was 0.70 (95%CI: 0.68-0.72) Conclusions: The MBDS is the main source of information to detect cases in the registry of congenital anomalies of the Valencian Community. Its main limitation is the high number of false positive cases detected (AU)

[The validity of the Spanish Minimum Basic Data Set to identify congenital anomalies in the Valencian Community (Spain)]. / La validez del Conjunto Mínimo Básico de Datos como fuente de identificación de las anomalías congénitas en la Comunitat Valenciana.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the validity of the Spanish Minimum Basic Data Set (MBDS) for identifying major congenital anomalies in the Valencian Community. METHODS: A retrospective epidemiological study was carried out. Children under the age of one year, born in 2007 and residing in the Valencian Community with congenital anomalies code 740-759 CIE9-MC, were selected from the MBDS, in addition to a random sample of children under the age of 1 year without these discharge codes. Having reviewed the clinical documentation, the cases were classified as true positives and negatives and false positives and negatives. Positive and negative predictive value and sensitivity were calculated. The kappa test was applied to analyse diagnostic consistency between the MBDS and the clinical documentation. RESULTS: A total of 2305 discharges of 1651 patients were identified. 4 out of the 5434 patients sampled had a major congenital abnormality. The positive predictive value was 56.4% (95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 53.9-58.8) and the negative predictive value was 99.3% (95%CI: 98.6-100.0). MBDS sensitivity was 68.6% (95%CI: 66.1-71.1). The most common codes in the true positives were: 745.5 (atrial septal defect), 745.4 (ventricular septal defect) and 747.0 (patent ductus arteriosus) and in the false positives: 747.0, 745.5 and 752.51 (cryptorchidism). 25.5% of diagnoses with congenital anomaly from the MBDS were not in the clinical documentation. Considering all diagnoses coded in the MBDS, the correlation was 0.70 (95%CI: 0.68-0.72) CONCLUSIONS: The MBDS is the main source of information to detect cases in the registry of congenital anomalies of the Valencian Community. Its main limitation is the high number of false positive cases detected.

[Drugs use in pregnancy in the Valencia Region and the risk of congenital anomalies]. / Consumo de medicamentos en el embarazo y riesgo de anomalías congénitas en la Comunitat Valenciana.

BACKGROUND: Despite the potential risks of drug use during pregnancy, consumption has increased in recent decades. OBJECTIVE: To identify the risk of congenital anomalies (CA) associated with the use of drugs in primary care in pregnant women residents in the Valencia Region. METHODS: A case-control study, considering a case as a less than one year old live birth in 2009-2010, diagnosed with a CA and resident in the Valencia Region, obtained from the CA population-based registry. Controls were selected from the Metabolic Disease Registry, and the drugs prescribed and dispensed from the Integral Management of Pharmaceutical Services. Crude odds ratio (OR) was calculated with its 95% confidence intervals and adjusted OR was calculated using logistic regression. RESULTS: A total of 1,913 cases and 3,826 controls were identified. The most frequently used drug groups were those acting on the musculoskeletal, nervous and respiratory systems, on the blood and blood forming organs, and anti-infection drugs. The most common drugs used were ibuprofen, dexketoprofen, paracetamol, amoxicillin, ferrous sulphate, and a combination of folic acid. A significantly increased risk of CA was identified for drugs acting on the musculoskeletal system (adjusted OR 1.14 [95% confidence interval 1.02-1.28]). A significantly decreased risk was observed for drugs acting on the blood and blood forming organs (adjusted OR 0.87 [95% confidence interval 0.78-0.98]). CONCLUSIONS: Associations between drugs and CA in pregnant women resident in the Valencia Region have been identified for drugs that act as risk factors of CA, and for drugs that act as protective factors of CA.

Polypharmacy in older adults with human immunodeficiency virus infection compared with the general population.

BACKGROUND: The percentage of older HIV-positive patients is growing, with an increase in age-related comorbidities and concomitant medication. OBJECTIVES: To quantify polypharmacy and profile types of non-antiretroviral drugs collected at community pharmacies in 2014 by HIV-positive individuals on antiretroviral therapy and to compare these findings with those of the general population. METHODS: HIV-positive patients (n=199) were compared with a group of patients from the general population (n=8,172), aged between 50 and 64 years. The factors compared were prevalence of polypharmacy (≥5 comedications with cumulative defined daily dose [DDD] per drug over 180), percentage of patients who collected each therapeutic class of drug, and median duration for each drug class (based on DDD). Results were stratified by sex. RESULTS: Polypharmacy was more common in HIV-positive males than in the male general population (8.9% vs 4.4%, P=0.010). Polypharmacy was also higher in HIV-positive females than in the female general population (11.3% vs 3.4%, P=0.002). Percentage of HIV-positive patients receiving analgesics, anti-infectives, gastrointestinal drugs, central nervous system (CNS) agents, and respiratory drugs was higher than in the general population, with significant differences between male populations. No differences were observed in proportion of patients receiving cardiovascular drugs. The estimated number of treatment days (median DDDs) were higher in HIV-positive males than in males from the general population for anti-infectives (32.2 vs 20.0, P<0.001) and CNS agents (238.7 vs 120.0, P=0.002). A higher percentage of HIV-positive males than males from the general population received sulfonamides (17.1% vs 1.5%, P<0.001), macrolides (37.1% vs 24.9%, P=0.020), and quinolones (34.3% vs 21.2%, P=0.009). CONCLUSION: Polypharmacy is more common in HIV-positive older males and females than in similarly aged members of the general population. HIV-positive patients received more CNS drugs and anti-infectives, specifically sulfonamides, macrolides, and quinolones, but there were no differences in the percentage of patients receiving cardiovascular drugs. It is essential to investigate nonantiretroviral therapy medication use in the HIV-positive population to ensure these patients receive appropriate management.

Percepciones de pacientes y profesionales sobre la calidad de la atención a personas con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica / Perceptions of patients and health professionals about the quality of care provided to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients

Objetivo: Explorar la percepción y el conocimiento de pacientes y profesionales sanitarios sobre factores que influyen en la calidad de los cuidados prestados en atención primaria (AP) a personas con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC). Diseño: Estudio cualitativo realizado entre febrero y marzo de 2010. Emplazamiento: Centros de salud urbanos. Participantes: Profesionales médicos y de enfermería de AP y pacientes con EPOC. Métodos: Muestreo intencional no probabilístico con criterios de representatividad del discurso. Se realizaron 2 entrevistas grupales y 6 individuales. Las entrevistas fueron grabadas, transcritas literalmente e interpretadas mediante el análisis social del discurso. Resultados: Los pacientes no identifican bien la sintomatología ni asumen la importancia de la EPOC hasta estadios avanzados. La falta de conocimiento sobre la evolución de la enfermedad y el impacto en la calidad de vida dificulta la adopción de los cambios necesarios. Los profesionales refieren problemas con la realización de espirometrías. Entre los médicos se identifica escepticismo respecto a la efectividad de las intervenciones dirigidas al cambio de conductas. Como factores organizativos destacan la existencia de Guías de Práctica Clínica (GPC), la coordinación entre profesionales y el alineamiento de prioridades entre gestores y profesionales. Conclusiones: Los factores identificados sugieren la posibilidad de mejorar la asistencia sanitaria, adecuando la comunicación con los pacientes para motivarlos a adoptar las modificaciones conductuales necesarias y mejorar la adherencia a los tratamientos. Para ello puede mejorarse la concienciación y la formación de los profesionales, la coordinación asistencial, la implementación de GPC y la utilización de indicadores en un proceso de evaluación de la calidad (AU)

Objective: To explore the understanding and knowledge of patients and health professionals about factors that influence the quality of care provided in Primary Care to people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Design: Qualitative study performed between February and March 2010. Location: Primary Care Centers. Participants: Medical and nursing professionals and patients with COPD. Methods: Non-probabilistic intentional sampling with representation criterion of the discourse. Two group (focus group) and 6 individual interviews were performed. The interviews were recorded, literally transcribed and interpreted by social discourse analysis. Results: Patients neither identify properly the symptomatology nor they assume the COPD importance until advanced states. The lacks of knowledge about the evolution of the disease and the impact on quality of life hinders the necessary changes. Professionals reports problems with performing spirometry. Among doctors, scepticism regarding to the effectiveness of the interventions aimed at change of behaviour is identified. The existence of Clinical Guides, the improvement of the coordination between professionals and the alignment of priorities between managers and professionals stand out as organizational factors. Conclusions: The identified factors suggest the possibility of improving the health care through improved communication to motivate them to take the recommended changes and to increase the adherence to treatments. To this effect, the awareness and training of professionals, the healthcare coordination, the implementation of Clinical Guides and the use of indicators in a process of quality assessment (AU)

[Perceptions of patients and health professionals about the quality of care provided to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients]. / Percepciones de pacientes y profesionales sobre la calidad de la atención a personas con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the understanding and knowledge of patients and health professionals about factors that influence the quality of care provided in Primary Care to people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). DESIGN: Qualitative study performed between February and March 2010. LOCATION: Primary Care Centers. PARTICIPANTS: Medical and nursing professionals and patients with COPD. METHODS: Non-probabilistic intentional sampling with representation criterion of the discourse. Two group (focus group) and 6 individual interviews were performed. The interviews were recorded, literally transcribed and interpreted by social discourse analysis. RESULTS: Patients neither identify properly the symptomatology nor they assume the COPD importance until advanced states. The lacks of knowledge about the evolution of the disease and the impact on quality of life hinders the necessary changes. Professionals reports problems with performing spirometry. Among doctors, scepticism regarding to the effectiveness of the interventions aimed at change of behaviour is identified. The existence of Clinical Guides, the improvement of the coordination between professionals and the alignment of priorities between managers and professionals stand out as organizational factors. CONCLUSIONS: The identified factors suggest the possibility of improving the health care through improved communication to motivate them to take the recommended changes and to increase the adherence to treatments. To this effect, the awareness and training of professionals, the healthcare coordination, the implementation of Clinical Guides and the use of indicators in a process of quality assessment.

Prevalence of concomitant medications in older HIV+ patients and comparison with general population.

OBJECTIVE: The increasing population of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected elderly patients results in a higher number of comorbidities and greater incidence of polypharmacy in addition to antiretroviral therapy (ART). The aim of this study is to describe the use of concomitant medication in older HIV-infected patients and to compare it with older general population. METHODS: The study included HIV-positive outpatients (>49 years) who received ART in 2011. Co-medication dispensed by pharmacies in that year was collected. Defined daily dose (DDD) for each drug was calculated by patient. A comparison was made between the use of co-medication among men between 50 and 64 years old in general population against the HIV-infected population. RESULTS: The study was based on 118 patients (77% men), of which 82% took at least one co-medication and 58% at least five. The commonest co-medications used by HIV-positive patients were antibiotics (44%); analgesics (44%); anti-inflammatories (39%); antacids (38%); and psycholeptics (38%). The medicines used for the greatest number of days per HIV-positive patient were those related to the renin-angiotensin system; anti-diabetics; lipid modifying agents; antithrombotics; and calcium channel blockers. In comparison with the general male population, a higher proportion of HIV-infected patients used antibiotics (42 vs 30%, P = 0.018), antiepileptics (16 vs 5%, P = 0.000), psycholeptics (35 vs 17%, P = 0.000) and COPD medications (14 vs 7%, P = 0.008). The duration of antibiotics and psycholeptic use in HIV-infected patients was longer compared to the general population (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Older HIV-positive patients frequently take a higher number of co-medication, which increases the risk of adverse events, interactions with other medication, and may lead to poorer treatment adherence.

Clinical characteristics and antiretroviral treatment of older HIV-infected patients.

BACKGROUND: The number of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) patients aged 50 years or over is growing year on year, due to both late diagnoses and the chronicity of the illness. This increase is a new phenomenon. OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of the older HIV infected population and determine if there are differences in antiretroviral treatment between younger and older patients. SETTING: This study was conducted in the outpatient hospital pharmacy service of a University Hospital in Spain. METHOD: A descriptive study involving HIV infected patients aged 50 years or older who received ambulatory antiretroviral therapy between January and December 2011. Variables related to HIV and to antiretroviral therapy were collected. A comparison of antiretroviral drugs used was made with the populations older and younger than 50 years. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Antiretroviral therapy differences between older and younger HIV-patients. RESULTS: 130 patients (20% of the antiretroviral treated patients) were 50 or over and 77% of these was aged between 50 and 59. At the time of diagnosis, 50% suffered an advanced state of disease. At the end of the study period, 58% had CD4 lymphocyte levels of over 500 cells/mm(3) and 90% had an undetectable viral load. The antiretroviral therapy of the older group that was based on protease inhibitors was used in the 51.5% of the patients compared with 54.4% in the younger group. The figures for nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors based therapy were 43.8 and 39.8%, respectively. The older population used treatments that included tenofovir (56.9 vs. 64.8%, p = 0.105) less frequently and used more treatments that included abacavir (26.9 vs. 19.1%, p = 0.054) than the under 50's. CONCLUSION: Half the older HIV-infected patients were diagnosed with an advanced disease and the majority showed a positive response to antiretroviral therapy. There are no statistically significant differences between the frequency of antiretroviral therapy use in older and younger HIV-patients, although older HIV-patients has less often used treatments with tenofovir and more often used treatments with abacavir.

Differences in outpatient antibiotic use between a Spanish region and a Nordic country

INTRODUCTION: Antibiotic use and misuse are linked to pathogen resistance and, as such, both constitute a public health issue with local, national, and global dimensions. Early studies have shown striking variations in the use of these drugs between Nordic and Mediterranean countries. The aim of the present study was to describe and compare antibiotic prescribing in Primary Care in Denmark and Aragón (a North-eastern Spanish region). METHODS: Outpatient antibiotic prescription data (2010) were obtained from the National Institute for Health Data and Disease Control (Denmark), and the Information System on Medication Consumption in Aragón. The consumption of antibiotics (ATC J01) was analyzed from the prescription rates and the number of defined daily dose (DDD) per 1000 inhabitants/day (DID). RESULTS: The rate of antibiotic prescription in 2010 in Aragón was greater than in Denmark (407 compared to 315 exposed individuals/1000 inhabitants). There were significant differences as regards overall consumption of antibiotics (23.2 DID in Aragón and 17.0 DID in Denmark), as well as the therapeutic group selection. There was an elevated use of broad spectrum penicillins, quinolones and cephalosporins in the Spanish region while, in Denmark, the most-consumed antibiotic was narrow spectrum penicillin. CONCLUSIÓN: The use of antibiotics in the Spanish region is very high, and there are marked differences in the choice of drug between this region and Denmark. Interventions are needed that promote the rational use of these drugs to reduce potential bacterial resistance, and to avoid unnecessary risks to patients

INTRODUCCIÓN: El uso inadecuado de antibióticos se ha relacionado con la aparición de resistencias microbianas, constituyendo así un problema de salud pública de dimensiones locales, nacionales y globales. Estudios previos han mostrado importantes diferencias en el uso de estos fármacos entre los países nórdicos y los mediterráneos. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir y comparar la prescripción antibiótica en atención primaria en Dinamarca y Aragón. MÉTODOS: Los datos de utilización extrahospitalaria de antibióticos (2010) se obtuvieron del National Institute for Health Data and Disease Control (Dinamarca) y del Sistema de Información de Consumo Farmacéutico de Aragón. El consumo de antibióticos (ATC J01) se analizó mediante las tasas de prescripción y el número de dosis diaria definida por 1.000 habitantes/día (DHD). RESULTADOS: La tasa de prescripción antibiótica en 2010 en Aragón fue superior a la de Dinamarca (407 frente a 315 expuestos/1.000 habitantes). Se observaron diferencias significativas en cuanto al consumo total de antibióticos (23,2 DHD en Aragón y 17 DHD en Dinamarca), así como en la elección del grupo terapéutico. La utilización de penicilinas de amplio espectro, quinolonas y cefalosporinas en la región española fue elevada, mientras que en Dinamarca el antibiótico más consumido fue una penicilina de espectro reducido. CONCLUSIÓN: El uso de antibióticos en Aragón es elevado, y existen importantes diferencias en la elección del tipo de fármaco entre esta región y Dinamarca. Sería conveniente desarrollar intervenciones que promuevan el uso racional de estos fármacos, para reducir las resistencias bacterianas y evitar riesgos innecesarios a los pacientes

Estudiantes de medicina y marketing farmacéutico / Medical students and drug marketing

OBJETIVO: Conocer la exposición de los estudiantes de medicina a las actividades promocionales de la industria farmacéutica, e identificar sus opiniones y actitudes, así como los posibles efectos de esta exposición en su formación y futura práctica profesional. DISEÑO: Estudio descriptivo transversal. Emplazamiento: Facultad de Medicina de la Universidad de Zaragoza. Participantes: Estudiantes de medicina de los cursos tercero, cuarto, quinto y sexto. MÉTODOS: La información se obtuvo mediante un cuestionario autoaplicado, previamente adaptado, sobre exposición, actitudes e idoneidad percibida de las actividades de marketing farmacéutico. Se estimaron porcentajes para las variables categóricas, aplicando el test de ji al cuadrado para la comparación entre grupos. Regresión logística para determinar los factores asociados a actitudes proclives a dichas actividades. RESULTADOS: Se obtuvieron 369 encuestas (93% de los asistentes a clase). La exposición a las actividades promocionales es elevada, sobre todo en la etapa clínica (el 78,6% declara haber recibido un regalo no formativo). Los estudiantes reconocen los sesgos y posibles repercusiones en la práctica profesional, aunque con ambigüedad y contradicciones. Las actividades mejor aceptadas son las relacionadas con la formación y las actitudes más críticas aparecen en la etapa clínica, sobre todo en el sexto curso. CONCLUSIONES: La exposición de los estudiantes al marketing farmacéutico y sus posibles repercusiones formativas y profesionales son frecuentes e importantes. El ámbito de la formación resulta especialmente permeable a las actividades promocionales. Las diferencias observadas en los últimos cursos señalan la necesidad de formación específica curricular y desarrollo de actitudes reflexivas por los propios estudiantes

OBJECTIVE: To determine the exposure of medical students to the marketing activities of the pharmaceutical industry, and identify their opinions and attitudes, and also the possible effects this exposure on their training and future professional practice. DESIGN: Descriptive cross-sectional. Setting: University of Zaragoza Faculty of Medicine. Participants: Third, fourth, fifth and sixth year medical students. METHODS: The information was obtained using a previously adapted, self-report questionnaire on the exposure, attitudes and perceived suitability of drug marketing activities. Percentages were calculated for the categorical variables, applying the chi squared test for the comparison between the groups. A logistic regression was performed to determine the factors associated with their attitudes towards these activities. RESULTS: A total of 369 questionnaires were returned (93% of those attending classes). The exposure to marketing activities is high, particularly in the clinical stage (78.6% said to have received a gift non-educational gift). The students recognised the possible biases and repercussions in professional practice, although with ambiguity and contradictions. The most accepted activities are those associated with training, and the most critical attitudes appear in the clinical stage, particularly in the sixth year. CONCLUSIONS: Exposure to drug marketing by medical students and its possible training and professional effects is frequent and significant. The training environment is particularly open to promotional activities. The differences observed in the later years suggest the need for a specific curriculum subject and development of reflective attitudes by the students themselves

[Medical students and drug marketing]. / Estudiantes de medicina y marketing farmacéutico.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the exposure of medical students to the marketing activities of the pharmaceutical industry, and identify their opinions and attitudes, and also the possible effects this exposure on their training and future professional practice. DESIGN: Descriptive cross-sectional. SETTING: University of Zaragoza Faculty of Medicine. PARTICIPANTS: Third, fourth, fifth and sixth year medical students. METHODS: The information was obtained using a previously adapted, self-report questionnaire on the exposure, attitudes and perceived suitability of drug marketing activities. Percentages were calculated for the categorical variables, applying the chi squared test for the comparison between the groups. A logistic regression was performed to determine the factors associated with their attitudes towards these activities. RESULTS: A total of 369 questionnaires were returned (93% of those attending classes). The exposure to marketing activities is high, particularly in the clinical stage (78.6% said to have received a gift non-educational gift). The students recognised the possible biases and repercussions in professional practice, although with ambiguity and contradictions. The most accepted activities are those associated with training, and the most critical attitudes appear in the clinical stage, particularly in the sixth year. CONCLUSIONS: Exposure to drug marketing by medical students and its possible training and professional effects is frequent and significant. The training environment is particularly open to promotional activities. The differences observed in the later years suggest the need for a specific curriculum subject and development of reflective attitudes by the students themselves.

The quality of outpatient antimicrobial prescribing: a comparison between two areas of northern and southern Europe.

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to analyse and compare the quality of outpatient antimicrobial prescribing in Denmark and Aragón (in northeastern Spain), with the objective of assessing inappropriate prescribing. METHODS: Outpatient antimicrobial prescription data were obtained from the National Institute for Health Data and Disease Control in Denmark, and from the Aragón Information System of Drug Consumption. The number of Defined Daily Doses (DDD) of the different substances were calculated, and the quality of the antimicrobial prescription was analysed using the 'Drug Utilization 90 %' method and the European Surveillance of Antimicrobial Consumption (ESAC) quality indicators for outpatient antimicrobial use. RESULTS: The majority of the prescriptions (90 % of total DDD) were comprised of 14 (of 39) different antimicrobials in Denmark, based mainly on narrow spectrum penicillin, and 11 (of 59) antimicrobials in Aragón, principally broad spectrum penicillins. The quality indicators described an elevated consumption of antimicrobials and an important seasonal variation in Aragón. In Denmark, the values obtained reflected a more moderate use with minor seasonal variation. CONCLUSIONS: The results showed important differences between the two study areas in relation to quantity and quality of outpatient antimicrobial prescription. The data indicate an overuse (and/or misuse) of antimicrobials in the Spanish region, despite national and local guidelines. The pattern of prescription in Denmark reflects a better adherence to recommendations.

Differences in outpatient antibiotic use between a Spanish region and a Nordic country.

INTRODUCTION: Antibiotic use and misuse are linked to pathogen resistance and, as such, both constitute a public health issue with local, national, and global dimensions. Early studies have shown striking variations in the use of these drugs between Nordic and Mediterranean countries. The aim of the present study was to describe and compare antibiotic prescribing in Primary Care in Denmark and Aragón (a North-eastern Spanish region). METHODS: Outpatient antibiotic prescription data (2010) were obtained from the National Institute for Health Data and Disease Control (Denmark), and the Information System on Medication Consumption in Aragón. The consumption of antibiotics (ATC J01) was analyzed from the prescription rates and the number of defined daily dose (DDD) per 1000 inhabitants/day (DID). RESULTS: The rate of antibiotic prescription in 2010 in Aragón was greater than in Denmark (407 compared to 315 exposed individuals/1000 inhabitants). There were significant differences as regards overall consumption of antibiotics (23.2 DID in Aragón and 17.0 DID in Denmark), as well as the therapeutic group selection. There was an elevated use of broad spectrum penicillins, quinolones and cephalosporins in the Spanish region while, in Denmark, the most-consumed antibiotic was narrow spectrum penicillin. CONCLUSION: The use of antibiotics in the Spanish region is very high, and there are marked differences in the choice of drug between this region and Denmark. Interventions are needed that promote the rational use of these drugs to reduce potential bacterial resistance, and to avoid unnecessary risks to patients.

Consumo de medicamentos en población adulta: influencia del autoconsumo / Medicine consumption in the adult population: Influence of self-medication

Objetivo: El objetivo del estudio es conocer las características de la población que se asocian al consumo y autoconsumo de fármacos en Aragón. Diseño: Estudio transversal a través de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud de 2006.EmplazamientoComunidad autónoma de Aragón. Participantes: Población adulta residente en Aragón. Mediciones principales: Consumo y autoconsumo de fármacos, así como características sociodemográficas, de salud y de estilos de vida. Resultados: El 65,1% de los adultos aragoneses habían consumido al menos un fármaco en las últimas 2 semanas, el 11,7% lo hizo sin receta médica. Se observó mayor consumo en las mujeres y en personas de mayor edad. El mal estado de salud percibido incrementaba de manera significativa el consumo de fármacos. Las personas con bajo nivel de estudios tenían mayor consumo, mientras que el autoconsumo fue más frecuente en el grupo de mayor nivel de estudios. Conclusiones: El consumo de fármacos en Aragón es elevado, así como la prevalencia de autoconsumo. Resulta de gran interés conocer el perfil de estos pacientes para poder realizar intervenciones dirigidas a reducir el consumo innecesario y mejorar la adecuación y seguridad de los fármacos utilizados (AU)

Objective: The objective of this study is to determine the factors associated with medicine consumption and self-consumption in Aragón (Spain). Design: Cross-sectional study from the National Health Survey 2006. Setting: Aragón (Spain).Participants: Adult population in Aragón (Spain). Main measurements: Medicine consumption and the type of consumption. Demographic, health and health style variables were also considered. Results: At least one drug was taken by the 65.1% of the adults in Aragón during the previous two weeks. Of this group, 11.7% were self-medicated. A higher frequency of consumption was observed in females and older people, and in those with a poor self-perceived health. People with a low educational level took drugs more often, but self-consumption was more frequent in the group with a high educational level. Conclusions: Medicine consumption and self-consumption in adults in Aragón is common. It is of great interest to know the consumption profile of these patients in order to develop specific interventions to reduce unnecessary consumption and to improve safety (AU)

[Medicine consumption in the adult population: Influence of self-medication]. / Consumo de medicamentos en población adulta: influencia del autoconsumo.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to determine the factors associated with medicine consumption and self-consumption in Aragón (Spain) DESIGN: Cross-sectional study from the National Health Survey 2006. SETTING: Aragón (Spain). PARTICIPANTS: Adult population in Aragón (Spain). MAIN MEASUREMENTS: Medicine consumption and the type of consumption. Demographic, health and health style variables were also considered. RESULTS: At least one drug was taken by the 65.1% of the adults in Aragón during the previous two weeks. Of this group, 11.7% were self-medicated. A higher frequency of consumption was observed in females and older people, and in those with a poor self-perceived health. People with a low educational level took drugs more often, but self-consumption was more frequent in the group with a high educational level. CONCLUSIONS: Medicine consumption and self-consumption in adults in Aragón is common. It is of great interest to know the consumption profile of these patients in order to develop specific interventions to reduce unnecessary consumption and to improve safety.

La mayoría de los médicos cree que es bueno pasar por exámenes periódicos de recertificación / The majority of doctors believe that it is good to take periodic recertification examinations

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