Relationship of vitamin D intake and sun exposure with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin-D in schoolchildren with obesity

The obesity worldwide has produced an increase in obesity-related diseases and can be associated with low concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin-D. Also obesity and low physical activity can decrease sun exposure, so the aim was to correlate vitamin D intake with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin-D levels and to assess sun exposure habits in schoolchildren with obesity. Materials and methods. A correlational study was performed from January 2017 to January 2018 on 103 children between 6-12 years of age, with a body mass index ≥+2SD for age and sex, according to the World Health Organization. Blood samples were taken to determine the serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin-D, a nutritional survey to determine the vitamin D intake and a sun exposure questionnaire were applied. A Spearman correlation coefficient analysis was performed. Results. Forty-seven percent of the children were girls. The median years of age was 10. The median serum 25-hydroxyvitamin-D levels were 35.5 ng/mL, 74.8% had sufficient levels, 25.2% had insufficient levels. The median vitamin D intake was 214.7IU in boys and 231.9IU in girls. Regarding sun exposure, most of the children had excessive levels of sun exposure and inadequate sun protection practices. A positive correlation between vitamin D intake and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin-D was identified only in boys (rho=0.276, p=0.041). Conclusion. A positive correlation between vitamin D intake and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin-D levels was found in obese boys and excessive levels of sun exposure with inadequate sun protection practices in boys and girls(AU)

La obesidad se le ha asociado con distintas comorbilidades, bajas concentraciones séricas de 25-hidroxivitamina-D, sedentarismo que a su vez podría comprometer la exposición solar; por tanto, el objetivo fue relacionar la ingesta de vitamina D con los niveles séricos de 25-hidroxivitamina-D y determinar los hábitos de exposición solar en escolares con obesidad. Materiales y métodos. Estudio correlacional realizado de enero 2017 a enero 2018, en 103 niños entre 6 y 12 años, con un índice de masa corporal ≥+2DE para edad y sexo, según la Organización Mundial de la Salud. Se extrajo muestras sanguíneas para determinar las concentraciones séricas de 25-hidroxivitamina-D, se aplicó una encuesta nutricional para determinar la ingesta de vitamina D y un cuestionario de exposición solar. Se realizó un análisis del coeficiente de correlación de Spearman. Resultados. El 47% de los sujetos eran niñas. La mediana de edad fue de 10. La mediana de los niveles séricos de 25-hidroxivitamina-D fue de 35,5 ng/mL, el 74,8% tenía niveles suficientes, el 25,2% tenía niveles insuficientes. La mediana de la ingesta de vitamina D fue de 214,7UI en niños y de 231,9UI en niñas. Con respecto a la exposición solar, la mayoría de los niños presentaban una exposición excesiva y prácticas inadecuadas de protección solar. Se identificó una correlación positiva entre la ingesta de vitamina D y la 25-hidroxivitamina-D sérica en los niños (rho=0,276, p=0,041). Conclusión. Se identificó una correlación positiva entre la ingesta de vitamina D y los niveles séricos de 25-hidroxivitamina-D en niños obesos y exposición excesiva con prácticas inadecuadas de protección solar en niños y niñas(AU)

Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D correlates with systolic blood pressure in obese male schoolchildren.

Introduction: Introduction: childhood obesity is associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases. We aimed to examine the relation between serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) and blood pressure in obese schoolchildren. Material and methods: a cross-sectional study in school-age children with obesity. The serum levels of 25(OH)D were measured and classified as sufficient or insufficient/deficient. Blood pressure was measured. Normal values were considered < 90th percentile, elevated blood pressure ≥ 90th to < 95th percentiles, and hypertension ≥ 95th percentile, according to blood pressure reference tables specific for age, sex, and height. A Pearson correlation was performed. Results: a total of 256 obese schoolchildren (123 [48.0 %] females and 133 [51.9 %] males) were evaluated. The prevalence rates of vitamin D deficiency, insufficiency, and sufficiency were 23.4 %, 52.3 %, and 24.2 %, respectively. Normal blood pressure was observed in 101 (39.4 %) children; the frequencies of elevated blood pressure and hypertension were 10.9 % and 49.6 %, respectively. A moderate inverse correlation of 25(OH)D levels with systolic blood pressure levels (r = -0.54, p = 0.03) was observed. When analyzed by sex, a significantly high inverse correlation between 25(OH)D levels and systolic blood pressure was observed in males (r = -0.85 and p ≤ 0.001). No significant correlation was found in females (systolic r = -0.16 and p = 0.67; diastolic r = -0.15 and p = 0.812). When performing the multiple regression analysis, the 25(OH)D levels and BMI were the significant predictors for systolic blood pressure. Conclusions: we identified an inverse correlation between 25[OH]D levels and systolic blood pressure in male schoolchildren with obesity.

Introducción: Introducción: la obesidad infantil se asocia con un mayor riesgo de desarrollar enfermedades crónicas. El objetivo fue analizar la relación entre los niveles séricos de 25-hidroxivitamina D (25[OH]D) y la presión arterial (PA) en escolares obesos. Material y métodos: estudio transversal en niños en edad escolar con obesidad. Los niveles séricos de 25(OH)D se clasificaron como suficientes e insuficientes/deficientes. Los valores de PA se clasificaron como normales si < percentil 90, presión elevada entre los percentiles ≥ 90 y < 95, e hipertensión si ≥ percentil 95, de acuerdo con las tablas de referencia de la PA, específicas para cada edad, sexo y altura. Se realizaron una correlación de Pearson y una regresión múltiple. Resultados: se evaluaron 256 escolares obesos (123 [48,0 %] mujeres y 133 [51,9 %] hombres). La frecuencia de la deficiencia, insuficiencia y suficiencia de vitamina D fue del 23,4 %, 52,3 % y 24,2 %, respectivamente. Se observó una PA normal en 101 (39,4 %) niños; las frecuencias de la PA elevada y la hipertensión fueron del 10,9 % y 49,6 %, respectivamente. Se observó una correlación inversa moderada de los niveles de 25(OH)D con los niveles de presión arterial sistólica (PAS) (r = -0,54; p = 0,03). Cuando se analizó por sexos, se observó una correlación inversa entre los niveles de 25(OH)D y la PAS en los niños (r = -0,85; p ≤ 0,001). No se encontró ninguna correlación significativa en las niñas (sistólica, r = -0,16; p = 0,67; diastólica, r = -0,15; p = 0,812). Al realizar el análisis de regresión múltiple, los niveles de 25(OH)D y el IMC fueron predictores significativos de la PAS. Conclusiones: identificamos una correlación inversa entre los niveles de 25[OH]D y la PAS en niños escolares con obesidad.

Vitamin D and its correlation with blood lipids and intima-media thickness in term infants.

INTRODUCTION: Background: an association between low 25(OH)D levels and blood lipids has been identified in children, adolescents, and adults but not in the early stages of life, and a relation to carotid and aortic intima-media thickness has not been well studied and is controversial. Objective: to identify whether 25(OH)D levels are correlated with blood lipids and aortic and carotid intima-media thickness in infants aged 3 to 9 months. Methods: a cross-sectional study was conducted in 109 healthy term infants between the ages of 3 and 9 months. Serum vitamin D [25(OH)D], total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, non-HDL-cholesterol, and aortic and carotid intima-media thickness were measured. Feeding method, vitamin D supplementation, and sun exposure habits were recorded. Results: only 2.8 % (n = 3) and 10.1 % (n = 14) had vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency, respectively. Infants with inadequate levels of vitamin D were younger (< 6 months) (p = 0.004), and a lower percentage of their body surface area was exposed to the sun (p = 0.006). A significant positive correlation was found between 25(OH)D levels and non-HDL-cholesterol in the infants that consumed breastmilk substitutes (rho = 0.600, p < 0.001) or were partially breastfed (rho = 0.371, p = 0.026), whereas a positive correlation was found with total cholesterol in the infants receiving breastmilk substitutes (rho = 0.618, p < 0.001). No significant correlation was found between vitamin D and aortic or carotid intima-media thickness. Conclusions: there was a positive correlation between 25(OH)D levels and both total and non-HDL-cholesterol only in infants receiving breastmilk substitutes. The frequency of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency was low.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción: se ha identificado una asociación entre los niveles de 25(OH)D y de lípidos en sangre en los niños, adolescentes y adultos, pero no en las primeras etapas de la vida, mientras que la asociación con el grosor de la íntima-media aórtica (a-IMT) o carotídea (c-IMT) no se ha estudiado totalmente y es objeto de controversia. Objetivo: identificar si existe correlación entre los niveles de 25(OH)D y de lípidos en sangre y el a-IMT y c-IMT en lactantes de 3 a 9 meses. Métodos: se realizó un estudio transversal en 109 lactantes sanos de entre 3 y 9 meses de edad; se midieron la vitamina D sérica [25(OH)D], el colesterol total, el colesterol HDL, el colesterol no HDL, el a-IMT y el c-IMT. Se registraron el tipo de alimentación, la suplementación con vitamina D y la exposición solar. Resultados: aquellos con niveles inadecuados de vitamina D fueron los menores de 6 meses (p = 0,004) y los expuestos en un menor porcentaje de su cuerpo al sol (p = 0,006). Se encontró una correlación positiva significativa entre la 25(OH)D, el colesterol total (rho = 0,618, p < 0,001) y el colesterol no HDL (rho = 0,600, p < 0.001) en aquellos que consumían sustitutos de la leche materna. No se encontró correlación entre la vitamina D y el grosor de la íntima-media aórtica o carotídea. Solo el 2,8 % y el 10,1 % presentaron deficiencia e insuficiencia de vitamina D, respectivamente. Conclusiones: se encontró una correlación positiva entre los niveles de 25(OH)D, colesterol total y colesterol no HDL en los lactantes que recibían sustitutos de la leche materna.

Reducción de la ingesta de alimento balanceado por consumo de agua endulzada con sacarosa en ratas Wistar / Reduction of balanced food intake by consumption of water sweetened with sucrose in Wistar rats

El azúcar de mesa, que se obtiene de la caña de azúcar, es el edulcorante más utilizado en la elaboración de los alimentos. El azúcar es importante en la obtención de energía, es necesario para la síntesis de ácidos grasos, de ácidos nucleicos, evita el estrés oxidativo y el desarrollo de anemia. Puede ocasionar caries, diabetes, obesidad, arteriosclerosis y otras patologías. En el presente trabajo se valoró el efecto que tiene la ingesta crónica de agua endulzada con sacarosa al 30% sobre el consumo de alimento balanceado, el perfil lipídico, la concentración de glucosa sérica, y sobre algunos marcadores del estado nutricional como el peso y las proteínas séricas totales, en machos de ratas Wistar. El agua endulzada con sacarosa al 30% se administró a un grupo de 9 ratas Wistar durante 3 meses y se tomó como grupo control a un grupo de 9 ratas que bebieron agua natural. El consumo de alimentos por ambos grupos, así como los marcadores de química sanguínea se analizaron al final del tratamiento. Los niveles de glucosa, lípidos y proteínas séricas totales se midieron mediante espectroscopía. Los resultados mostraron que el consumo de agua endulzada con sacarosa al 30% redujo en más de un 90% el consumo de alimento balanceado; sin embargo, no afectó el perfil lipídico ni el nivel de glucosa en sangre, así como tampoco el nivel de proteínas séricas totales. El consumo de agua endulzada con sacarosa podría provocar desnutrición a largo plazo ya que ocasiona una reducción en la ingesta de alimento rico en nutrientes.

Sugar, obtained from sugarcane, is the most commonly used sweetener in food processing. Sugar is an important food for energy generation and it is necessary for the synthesis of fatty acids and nucleic acids. It prevents oxidative stress and anemia development. However, its consumption can cause dental caries, diabetes, obesity, arteriosclerosis and other pathologies. In the present work, the effect of chronic intake of water sweetened with 30% sucrose on balanced food consumption, lipid profile, serum glucose concentration, as well as some markers of nutritional status such as weight and total serum proteins was assessed in male Wistar rats. The water sweetened with 30% sucrose was administered to a group of 9 Wistar rats for 3 months, having 9 rats as a control group that drank natural water. Food consumption between both groups as well as blood chemistry markers were analyzed at the end of the treatment. Glucose, lipid levels as well as total serum proteins were measured by spectroscopy. The results showed that the consumption of water sweetened with 30% sucrose reduced the consumption of balanced food by more than 90%, however, it did not affect the lipid profile, the level of glucose in the blood or the level of total serum proteins concentration. Consumption of sucrose-sweetened water could lead to long-term malnutrition by reducing the intake of nutrient-rich food.

O açúcar comum, obtido a partir da cana de açúcar, é o adoçante mais utilizado na elaboração dos alimentos. O açúcar é importante para a geração de energia; necessário para a síntese de ácidos graxos e de ácidos nucleicos. Previne o estresse oxidativo e o desenvolvimento de anemia. No entanto, seu consumo pode causar cárie dentária, diabetes, obesidade, arteriosclerose e outras patologias. No presente trabalho, foi avaliado o efeito da ingestão crônica de água adoçada com sacarose a 30% sobre o consumo de alimentos ricos em nutrientes, perfil lipídico, concentração sérica de glicose e alguns marcadores do estado nutricional, como o peso. e as proteínas séricas totais em ratos Wistar machos. A água adoçada com sacarose a 30% foi administrada a um grupo de 9 ratos Wistar por 3 meses, tendo como grupo controle um grupo de 9 ratos que beberam água natural. O consumo de alimentos entre os dois grupos e os marcadores de química sanguínea foram analisados no final do tratamento. Os níveis de glicose, lipídios e proteínas séricas totais foram medidos por espectroscopia. Os resultados mostraram que o consumo de água adoçada com sacarose a 30% reduziu em mais de 90% o consumo de alimentos ricos em nutrientes, no entanto, não afetou o perfil lipídico, o nível de glicose em sangue nem o nível de proteínas séricas totais. O consumo de água adoçada com sacarose poderia levar à desnutrição no longo prazo, visto que produz uma redução na ingestão de alimentos ricos em nutrientes.

Serum ferritin levels among schoolchildren and its correlation with lipid profile and adiposity

To determine the association between serum ferritin levels, lipid profile and adiposity in school-age children. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on obese and non-obese children. Weight, height, waist circumference and blood pressure were measured for all participants. Lipid profile, serum ferritin and glucose were determined and analysed through absorbance. The Spearman correlation was performed for the quantitative variables and a regression analysis was used to determine the interaction between variables. Eighty-nine children were included, with a median age of 9.0 years. Results: When comparing serum ferritin levels in normal weight group, vs. the overweight and obesity group, values were significantly higher in the latter. Serum ferritin correlated positively with BMI (Rho .282, p <0.01), waist circumference (Rho .372, p < 0.01), diastolic blood pressure (Rho .244, p < 0.05), body fat percentage (Rho .375, p < 0.001), insulin (Rho .254, p <.05) and sex (Rho .224, p <.05); and negatively with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (Rho. -221, p< 0.05). When analysing the significant variables in a multivariate regression model, sex, body mass index, waist circumference, and body fat percentage remained statistically significant (p <0.01). Conclusion: We observed associations between serum ferritin and obesity in Mexican school aged children(AU)

Determinar la asociación entre los niveles de ferritina sérica, el perfil de lípidos y la adiposidad en niños en edad escolar. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio transversal en niños obesos y no obesos. Se midieron el peso, la altura, la circunferencia de cintura y la presión arterial en todos los participantes. El perfil lipídico, la ferritina sérica y la glucosa se determinaron y analizaron mediante absorbancia. Se realizó correlación de Spearman para las variables cuantitativas y se utilizó un análisis de regresión para determinar la interacción entre las variables. Se incluyeron ochenta y nueve niños, con una edad media de 9,0 años. Resultados: Al comparar los niveles de ferritina sérica en el grupo de peso normal, frente al grupo de sobrepeso y obesidad, los valores fueron significativamente más altos en este último. La ferritina sérica se correlacionó positivamente con el IMC (Rho 0,282, p <0,01), la circunferencia de cintura (Rho 0,372, p <0,01), la presión arterial diastólica (Rho 0,244, p <0,05), el porcentaje de grasa corporal (Rho 0,375, p < 0,001), insulina (Rho 0,254, p <0,05) y sexo (Rho 0,224, p < 0,05); y negativamente con colesterol de lipoproteínas de alta densidad (Rho -0,221, p <0,05). Al analizar las variables significativas en un modelo de regresión multivariante, el sexo, el índice de masa corporal, la circunferencia de cintura y el porcentaje de grasa corporal se mantuvieron estadísticamente significativos (p <0,01). Conclusión: Observamos asociaciones entre la ferritina sérica y la obesidad en niños mexicanos en edad escolar(AU)

Comparison of leptin levels in neonates born to mothers with high or low gestational weight gain.

Background Gestational weight gain (GWG) influences both fetal and maternal health. Leptin is a biomarker that may predict the early development of obesity and greater weight gain in childhood. Newborns with higher neonatal weight have been found to have higher leptin levels in umbilical cord blood (UCB). There are few studies that evaluate leptin levels in UCB according to GWG in women with a normal body mass index (BMI). The aim of the present study was to determine whether the levels of leptin in UCB in neonates born to mothers with a high GWG were higher, compared with levels in newborns whose mothers had a low GWG. Methods A cross-sectional analytic study was conducted on 65 primigravidas. They were under 30 years of age, had normal pregestational BMIs, no associated diseases and were classified as having high (n = 22) or low (n = 43) GWG. The neonatal UCB leptin levels were measured and both neonatal and maternal anthropometric evaluations were carried out. The quantitative variables were compared through the Mann-Whitney U test and Student's t test, as appropriate. Results UCB leptin levels were higher in the neonates whose mothers were in the high GWG group, compared with those born to mothers in the low GWG group (7.0 [1.9-11.4] vs. 2.9 [1.2-6.7] ng/mL, p = 0.020). When stratified by sex, that difference was maintained only in male neonates. Conclusions UCB leptin levels were higher in neonates born to mothers with a high GWG, compared with those in newborns whose mothers had a low GWG.

Vitamin D status and its relation to insulin resistance in a Mexican pediatric population.

Background Obesity in children and adolescents has increased alarmingly, placing them at a higher risk for impaired glucose tolerance and type 2 diabetes. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency has increased as well. Vitamin D is critical for glucose homeostasis and insulin secretion. Studies on adults have reported an inverse association between vitamin D levels and insulin resistance (IR), but the results in children are inconsistent. The aim of our study was to determine the association between IR and serum vitamin D levels in obese Mexican children and adolescents. Methods A cross-sectional study was performed on 227 children and adolescents between 6 and 19 years of age. Obesity was diagnosed through body mass index (BMI) for age, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria (2007). 25-Hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) was measured using an immunoassay technique and the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was calculated using the Matthews equation. Student's t-test was carried out. Results The mean serum 25(OH)D level was 35.80 ng/mL, and 55.1% of the subjects had levels classified as sufficient, 33.5% as insufficient, and 11.5% as deficient. The mean level of HOMA-IR was 3.16, and 70% of the subjects were diagnosed with IR. Fasting insulin levels and HOMA-IR were significantly different in adolescents with hypovitaminosis, compared with adolescents in the vitamin D sufficiency group (p = 0.01 and p = 0.03, respectively). Conclusions The insulin levels and HOMA-IR were higher in adolescents with hypovitaminosis. The girls presented higher levels of insulin and HOMA-IR than the boys.

Oral fatty acid taste sensitivity in healthy young individuals of both sexes is related to body mass index and soluble CD36 serum levels.

INTRODUCTION: Introduction: CD36 is a membrane protein that functions as a lingual receptor for lipids. The soluble CD36 fraction (sCD36) may correlate oral fatty acid fat taste sensitivity to body mass index (BMI) and adiposity. Objectives: to determine if the oral fatty acid taste sensitivity in healthy young individuals of both sexes is related to serum sCD36 levels, adiposity and BMI. Methods: a cross-sectional study was conducted in 72 healthy young individuals (18-25 years). Serum sCD36 was quantified for all subjects. Oral fatty acid taste sensitivity was determined using an ascending series of the three-alternate forced choice methodology. Additionally, BMI was calculated using anthropometry, and adiposity was determined by bioelectric impedance analysis. Results: there was a positive correlation between BMI and the oral fatty acid taste sensitivity threshold (r = 0.277, p < 0.05) and a negative correlation between BMI and serum sCD36 levels (r = -0.035, p < 0.01). Adiposity negatively correlated with the sCD36 levels only in women (r = -0.359, p < 0.05). The threshold for oral sensitivity to fatty acids in overweight individuals was 1.0 (IQR 1.16) mM vs 0.2 (IQR 0.29) mM in healthy weight individuals (p < 0.05), while sCD36 levels were 26.1 pg/ml (IQR 32.9) and 77.97 pg/ml (IQR 560.66) in overweight and normal weight individuals, respectively (p < 0.05). Conclusions: BMI positively correlates with the oral sensitivity threshold of fatty acids and negatively correlates with serum sCD36 levels. The threshold of oral sensitivity to fatty acids was significantly higher in overweight subjects, while sCD36 levels were significantly higher in the group of normal weight individuals.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción: CD36 es una proteína de membrana que funciona como receptor lingual para lípidos. La fracción soluble del CD36 (sCD36) podría correlacionar la sensibilidad gustativa a los ácidos grasos orales con el índice de masa corporal (IMC) y con la adiposidad. Objetivos: determinar si la sensibilidad gustativa a ácidos grasos orales se relaciona con los niveles séricos de sCD36, la adiposidad y el IMC en jóvenes de ambos sexos. Métodos: estudio transversal en 72 adultos jóvenes (18-25 años). Se cuantificaron los niveles séricos de sCD36 para todos los sujetos. Se determinó la sensibilidad gustativa a los ácidos grasos orales. Adicionalmente, se calculó el IMC usando antropometría y se determinó la adiposidad por análisis de bioimpedancia. Resultados: se encontró correlación positiva entre el IMC y el umbral de sensibilidad gustativa a los ácidos grasos orales (r = 0,277, p < 0,05) y una correlación negativa entre el IMC y los niveles séricos de sCD36 (r = −0,035, p < 0,01). La adiposidad, solo en mujeres se correlacionó negativamente con los niveles de sCD36 (r = −0,359, p < 0,05). El umbral para la sensibilidad gustativa a ácidos grasos orales en sujetos con sobrepeso fue 1,0 (IQR 1,16) mM vs. 0,2 (IQR 0,29) mM en sujetos con peso normal (p < 0,05), mientras que los niveles séricos de sCD36 fueron de 26,1 pg/ml (IQR 32,9) en sujetos con sobrepeso y 77,97 pg/ml (IQR 560,66) en sujetos con peso normal, respectivamente (p < 0,05). Conclusiones: el IMC se correlaciona positivamente con el umbral para la sensibilidad oral a los ácidos grasos y negativamente se correlaciona con los niveles séricos de sCD36. El umbral de sensibilidad oral a los ácidos grasos fue significativamente mayor en sujetos con sobrepeso, mientras que los niveles de sCD36 fueron significativamente más altos en el grupo de sujetos con peso normal.

The serum arachidonic acid/eicosapentaenoic acid ratio in children with healthy weight and obesity

The western diet is characterized by a high consumption of n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and reduced n-3PUFAs, this phenomenon has been parallel to the increase in the prevalence of obesity. The studies that have analyzed the association between serum PUFAs and the influence on the development of adiposity in children is limited and the findings are controversial. The present study compared the ARA/EPA (arachidonic/eicosapentaenoic) PUFA ratio in children with healthy weight vs. obesity in a cross-sectional study. Thirty children were diagnosed with obesity and 32 children with healthy weight determined through the age-specific body mass index (BMI) Z score, according to the WHO. The variables included were weight, BMI, waist circumference (WC), and the serum ARA/EPA ratio. The Student's t test and Pearson correlation were performed and statistical significance was set at a p <0.05. The project was approved by the local ethics committee of the hospital Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. The serum ARA/EPA ratio was significantly higher in children with obesity compared with healthy weight (9.0 vs 5.4; p = 0.012). A statistically significant difference was observed between healthy weight boys and obese boys (p=0.003). Furthermore, the ARA/EPA ratio correlated positively with weight (r=0.336; p=0.008), BMI (r=0.373; p=0.003), WC (r=0.319; p=0.012) and cardio-metabolic risk (r=0.302; p=0.017). When performing a multivariate regression analysis, we identified that BMI was the only variable that remained significant and predicted the ARA/EPA ratio. In conclusion, the serum ARA/EPA ratio differed significantly in relation to weight and was higher in the obese children(AU)

La dieta occidental se caracteriza por un alto consumo de ácidos grasos poliinsaturados n-6(AGPI) y AGPIn-3 reducidos, fenómeno que ha sido paralelo al aumento en la prevalencia de la obesidad. Los estudios que han analizado la asociación entre AGPN en suero y adiposidad en niños son limitados y con hallazgos inconsistentes. El presente estudio comparó la relación ARA/EPA (ácido araquidónico/eicosapentaenoico) AGPI en niños con peso normal vs. obesidad. Es un estudio transversal donde treinta niños fueron diagnosticados con obesidad y 32 niños con peso normal determinado mediante el puntaje z del IMC para la edad, de acuerdo a la OMS. Las variables incluidas fueron peso, IMC, circunferencia de cintura (CC) y la relación ARA/EPA en suero. Se realizó prueba de t de Student y correlación de Pearson, la significación estadística se estableció en p <0,05. El proyecto fue aprobado por el comité de ética local del Hospital del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. La relación ARA/EPA en suero fue significativamente mayor en niños con obesidad en comparación con el peso normal (9,0 frente a 5,4; p = 0,012). Además, la relación ARA/EPA se correlacionó positivamente con el peso (r = 0.336; p = 0.008), IMC (r = 0.373; p = 0.003), CC (r = 0.319; p = 0.012). Al realizar un análisis de regresión multivariable, identificamos que el IMC fue la variable predictora que permaneció significativa. En conclusión, la relación de suero ARA/EPA fue significativamente mayor en los niños con obesidad(AU)

Effect of Calcitriol Supplementation on Blood Pressure in Older Adults.

Recent studies suggest that vitamin D plays an important role in the control of blood pressure. Unfortunately, because older adults are more likely to have low 25-hydroxyvitamin-D [25(OH)D] levels, this study investigated whether calcitriol supplementation reduces blood pressure in older adults with hypertension. The design was a double-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial with 36 randomly assigned subjects (71.7 ± 10 years). Blood pressure and serum levels of 25(OH)D before and after calcitriol intervention (1,000 IU daily for 6 weeks; n = 22) or placebo (n = 23) for 6 weeks were analyzed. At the end of the study, the calcitriol group presented a significant decrease of systolic blood pressure [20.25 mmHg (p = 0.001)] and diastolic blood pressure [7 mmHg (p = 0.01)], compared with the placebo group. In conclusion, 1,000 IU/day of calcitriol for 6 weeks efficiently reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels in this population of older adults presenting with high blood pressure (Clinical Trial Approbation NCT02047799).

Effect of an avocado oil-enhanced diet (Persea americana) on sucrose-induced insulin resistance in Wistar rats.

A number of studies have been conducted to evaluate the effects of vegetable oils with varying percentages of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids on insulin resistance. However, there is no report on the effect of avocado oil on this pathologic condition. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of avocado oil on sucrose-induced insulin resistance in Wistar rats. An experimental study was carried out on Wistar rats that were randomly assigned into six groups. Each group received a different diet over an 8-week period (n = 11 in each group): the control group was given a standard diet, and the other five groups were given the standard feed plus sucrose with the addition of avocado oil at 0%, 5%, 10%, 20%, and 30%, respectively. Variables were compared using Student t test and analysis of variance. Statistically significant difference was considered when p < 0.05. Rats that were given diets with 10% and 20% avocado oil showed lower insulin resistance (p = 0.022 and p = 0.024, respectively). Similar insulin resistance responses were observed in the control and 30% avocado oil addition groups (p = 0.85). Addition of 5-30% avocado oil lowered high sucrose diet-induced body weight gain in Wistar rats. It was thus concluded that glucose tolerance and insulin resistance induced by high sucrose diet in Wistar rats can be reduced by the dietary addition of 5-20% avocado oil.

Bacteriuria asintomática y factores de riesgo en mujeres de pregrado de dos profesiones / Asymptomatic bacteriuria and risk factors in undergraduate women of two professions / Bacteriúria assintomática e fatores de risco em mulheres de graduação de dois profissões

Este estudio transversal descriptivo busca analizar si la formación profesional de las estudiantes de enfer\r\n-\r\nmería influye para que presenten menor frecuencia de bacteriuria asintomática (BA) y factores de riesgo \r\nrespecto a las de trabajo social. Previo consentimiento informado, se seleccionó un grupo de alumnas de \r\nenfermería y otro de trabajo social mediante muestreo simple aleatorio. Se excluyeron quienes estaban \r\nembarazadas o en tratamiento con antibióticos. El diagnóstico de BA se hizo con base en tres criterios \r\nquímicos y de laboratorios validados por la literatura médica. Para identificar factores de riesgo de BA, \r\nse aplicó un instrumento de diez preguntas que evalúan situaciones que favorecen infecciones urinarias. \r\nSe realizó un estudio piloto y las respuestas permitieron adecuar el instrumento. Se utilizó estadística \r\ndescriptiva y chi cuadrado para identificar asociación entre frecuencia de BA y área de formación de las \r\nestudiantes. Las diferencias se consideraron estadísticamente significativas cuando \r\np\r\n ≤ 0,05. Se identificó \r\nun solo caso de BA en alumnas de enfermería y cuatro en trabajo social, lo cual no es estadísticamente \r\nsignificativo (\r\np\r\n=0,26, OR=0,29). Los factores de riesgo que resultaron significativos entre ambos grupos \r\nfueron: higiene vaginal inadecuada (\r\np\r\n=0,0016, OR=0,17), presencia de lavados vaginales frecuentes \r\n(\r\np\r\n=0,005, OR=0,26) e ingesta de suplementos vitamínicos (\r\np\r\n=0,0008, OR=4,23). Se concluye que los \r\ncasos de BA positivos no están relacionados con el área de formación profesional; los casos positivos de \r\nBA se deben más a factores y hábitos de higiene local que a factores socioculturales y de nutrición.

Objective: to analyze whether the academic training of \r\nnursing school students contributes to a reduction of \r\nAsymptomatic Bacteriuria (AB) in comparison with social \r\nwork students. Methods: cross-sectional study between \r\n2 groups of females; nursing and social work students. \r\nInformed consent prior to the participation in the study \r\nwas provided. Pregnant women and students under anti\r\n-\r\nbiotic treatment were excluded. AB diagnosis was based \r\non three measures of chemical and laboratory criteria \r\nvalidated in the medical literature. AB risk factors were \r\nidentified by a 10-question instrument, which evaluated \r\nsituations that propitiate urinary infections. A pilot \r\nstudy was carried out and answers were used to adapt \r\nthe study instrument. Descriptive statistics, chi-square \r\ntest, odds ratio (OR) and 95% Confidence Interval (CI) \r\nwere used to identify associations between AB frequency \r\nand student's area of training. Statistical significance was \r\nconsidered when P < 0.05. Results: One case of AB was \r\nidentified in the nursing school students and four cases \r\nin the social work students. These results were not statis\r\n-\r\ntically significant (P= 0.26, OR= 0.29). Significant risk \r\nfactors in both groups included: inadequate perineal \r\nhygiene (P= 0.0016, OR 0.17), frequent vaginal washing \r\n(P= 0.005, OR= 0.26) and supplementary vitamin intake \r\n(P= 0.0008, OR= 4.23). Conclusions: positive AB cases \r\nare not linked to an area of professional training. Positive \r\nAB cases are more related to local hygiene habits rather \r\nthan sociocultural or nutritional factors.

Objetivos: analisar se a formação acadêmica dos estu\r\n-\r\ndantes de enfermagem contribui a diminuir a frequência de \r\nbacteriuria assintomática (BA) em relação aos estudantes \r\nde assistência social. Métodos: um estudo transversal \r\ndescritivo entre dois grupos de alunas femininas de \r\nenfermagem e assistência social, quem consentimento \r\ninformado foram selecionados em amostragem aleatória \r\nsimples. Foram excluídas meninas grávidas e meninas em \r\nuso de remédios antibióticos. O diagnóstico de BA foi \r\nbaseado em três critérios químicos e laboratoriais vali\r\n-\r\ndadas pela literatura médica. Para identificar os fatores \r\nde risco para a BA, um instrumento de 10 preguntas que \r\navaliam situações que favorecem a UTI foi aplicado. Um \r\nestudo piloto foi realizado e as respostas foram usadas \r\npara adaptar o instrumento. Estatísticas descritivas e \r\nteste do Qui-quadrado foram utilizados para identificar \r\nassociações entre a frequência de BA e a área da formação \r\ndas estudantes. As diferenças foram consideradas estatis\r\n-\r\nticamente significativas quando p ≤ 0,05. Resultados: 1 \r\ncaso de BA foi identificado em estudantes de enfermagem \r\ne 4 de assistência social, o que não é estatisticamente \r\nsignificativa (p = 0,26, OR = 0,29). Os fatores de risco \r\nque foram significativas entre os dois grupos foram: falta \r\nde higiene vaginal (p =0,0016, OR 0,17), presença de \r\nlavagem frequente (p = 0,005, OR = 0,26) e ingestão de \r\nvitaminas (p = 0,0008, OR = 4,23). Conclusões: casos \r\npositivos de BA não estão relacionados com a área de \r\nformação profissional; casos positivos de BA sao mas \r\nrelacionado come fatores como hábitos de higiene de que \r\nos fatores culturais e nutricionais.

Carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1B 531K allele carriers sustain a higher respiratory quotient after aerobic exercise, but ß3-adrenoceptor 64R allele does not affect lipolysis: a human model.

Carnitine palmitoyltransferase IB (CPT1B) and adrenoceptor beta-3 (ADRB3) are critical regulators of fat metabolism. CPT1B transports free acyl groups into mitochondria for oxidation, and ADRB3 triggers lipolysis in adipocytes, and their respective polymorphisms E531K and W64R have been identified as indicators of obesity in population studies. It is therefore important to understand the effects of these mutations on ADRB3 and CPT1B function in adipose and skeletal muscle tissue, respectively. This study aimed to analyze the rate of lipolysis of plasma indicators (glycerol, free fatty acids, and beta hydroxybutyrate) and fat oxidation (through the non-protein respiratory quotient). These parameters were measured in 37 participants during 30 min of aerobic exercise at approximately 62% of maximal oxygen uptake, followed by 30 min of recovery. During recovery, mean respiratory quotient values were higher in K allele carriers than in non-carriers, indicating low post-exercise fatty acid oxidation rates. No significant differences in lipolysis or lipid oxidation were observed between R and W allele carriers of ADRB3 at any time during the aerobic load. The substitution of glutamic acid at position 531 by lysine in the CPT1B protein decreases the mitochondrial beta-oxidation pathway, which increases the non-protein respiratory quotient value during recovery from exercise. This may contribute to weight gain or reduced weight-loss following exercise.

Resistencia a la insulina y efecto sobre la excitabilidad y contracción del músculo esquelético en rata / Insulin resistance and its effect on excitability and contraction of the skeletal muscle in rats

Introducción: la resistencia a la insulina es una condición metabólica que afecta múltiples tejidos entre ellos al músculo esquelético. El propósito del presente trabajo es analizar si la resistencia a la insulina inducida experimentalmente en ratas, modifica la excitabilidad y las propiedades contráctiles del músculo esquelético. Métodos: se incluyeron 22 ratas Sprague Dawley sanas para formar 2 grupos: Al grupo experimental (n=10) se le indujo resistencia a la insulina mediante la administración oral de prednisona (45mg/Kg.) durante 7 días. Al grupo control (n=12) se le administró solo agua. En ambos grupos se compararon principalmente los parámetros de la contractura muscular: tensión al pico, tensión total, activación contráctil y grado de excitabilidad muscular mediante una curva de umbrales así como su respuesta a una infusión continua de insulina intravenosa. Los experimentos fueron realizados en músculo gastrocnemio utilizando registros de tensión isométrica y estimulación eléctrica. Se analizaron las varianzas entre grupos para utilizar prueba t de Students o U de Mann Whitney, determinándose diferencias significativas entre ambos grupos cuando p<0.05. Resultados: (Control vs. Experimental): 1) Excitabilidad muscular: Reobase: 0.59± 0.12 V vs. 0.27 ± 0.03V (p = 0.19); Cronaxia: 0.07 ms vs. 0.08 ms. 2) Parámetros de la contractura muscular: Tensión al pico: 58.5±5.1 g vs. 48.3±4.3 g (p =0.19). Tensión total: 0.55±0.13 V/ms vs. 0.44±0.05 V/ms (p=0.45). Activación contráctil: 9.13±1.3 ms vs. 10.5±1.6 ms (p=0.19). Conclusiones: los resultados del presente estudio sugieren que la resistencia a la insulina al parecer modifica parcialmente la excitabilidad de la fibra muscular además de favorecer el desarrollo de contracciones musculares de menor intensidad y mas lentas, lo que sugiere una posible afección del acople excitación-contracción del músculo esquelético.

Introduction: Insulin resistance is a metabolic condition that affects many tissues including skeletal muscle tissue. The objective of the present study was to analyze whether or not experimentally induced insulin resistance modifies skeletal muscle excitability and contraction in the rat. Methods : Twenty-two healthy Sprague-Dawley rats were used to form two groups. In the experimental group (n=10) insulin resistance was induced by means of oral prednisone administration (45mg/Kg) over a period of 7 days. The control group (n=12) received only water. The following muscle contraction parameters were compared between groups: peak tension, contractile activation, total tension, degree of muscle excitability during threshold curve and response to continuous intravenous insulin infusion. Experiments were carried out in gastrocnemius muscle, utilizing isometric tension registers and electrical stimulation. Variance between groups was analyzed to determine use of Student t test or Mann Whitney U test. Difference between groups was considered statistically significant when P<0.05. Results : (Control group vs Experimental group): 1) Muscle excitability: Rheobase: 0.59± 0.12 V vs 0.27 ± 0.03V (P = 0.19); Chronaxie: 0.07 ms vs 0.08 ms. 2) Muscle contraction parameters: Peak tension: 58.5±5.1 g vs 48.3±4.3 g (P =0.19). Total tension: 0.55±0.13 V/ms vs 0.44±0.05 V/ms ( P=0.45). Contractile activation: 9.13±1.3 ms vs 10.5±1.6 ms (P=0.19). Conclusions: In the results of the present study insulin resistance appears to partially modify muscle fiber excitability in addition to favoring the development of slow, low intensity muscle contractions, suggesting a possible affectation of excitation-contraction coupling in skeletal muscle.

Correlation between percentage of body fat measured by the Slaughter equation and bio impedance analysis technique in Mexican schoolchildren.

INTRODUCTION: Obesity is considered one of the most serious public health problems of the 21st century in children and adolescents. The percentile or Z-score of the body mass index is widely used in children and adolescents to define and assess overweight and obesity, but it does not determine the percentage of total body fat. Other anthropometric measurements that determine total body fat are skinfold thickness and methods of body composition assessment such as bio impedance analysis, both of which are rapid and inexpensive. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to correlate the percentage of body fat determined by the Slaughter equation with the percentage of body fat determined by the bio impedance analysis technique, and the body mass index in schoolchildren. METHODS: The design of the study is cross-sectional and it was performed on a random selection of 74 children (9.47 ± 1.55 years old) attending a primary school in Colima, Mexico during 2011. The percentage of body fat was measured by the Slaughter equation and bio impedance analysis technique. Body mass index was calculated. Inferential statistics were performed with the non-paired Student's t test, Pearson's correlation for quantitative variables (percentage of body fat by the Slaughter equation and bio impedance analysis) and the Fisher exact test for qualitative variables. RESULTS: A significant correlation (r = 0.74; p < 0.001) was identified between the percentage of fat measured by the Slaughter equation and bio impedance analysis. We also identified a significant correlation between the percentage of fat measured by the Slaughter equation and body mass index (r = 0.85; p < 0.001) and the percentage of fat measured by bio impedance analysis and body mass index (r = 0.78; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Given that we identified a significant positive correlation between BIA and STE, we conclude that both are adequate alternatives for measuring the percentage of body fat among schoolchildren in our population.

Higher levels of C-reactive protein associated with higher adiposity in mexican schoolchildren.

INTRODUCTION: The development of chronic-degenerative diseases secondary to obesity in early infancy has alerted health providers to the importance of identifying the risk factors for obesity and assessing preventive treatment to reduce risks. Studies performed on a pediatric population have examined the role of inflammatory biomarkers (specifically CRP and TNF-α) and adiposity with inconsistent results. OBJECTIVE: To assess the relationship between the serum levels of C-reactive protein and tumor necrosis factor-alfa with adiposity measured by bioimpedance analysis in schoolchildren. METHODS: Cross sectional design. Data were collected from 74 schoolchildren randomly selected in a local primary school in the city of Colima, Mexico. The mean age was 9.4 years (1.5, SD); 33 (44.6%) were girls. The adiposity (percentage of fat mass) was measured using bioimpedance analysis and anthropometric measurements. Serum C-reactive protein and tumor necrosis factor alpha were determined with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The association between adiposity and serum inflammatory biomarkers was assessed with non parametric tests (Mann Whitney and Kruskall Wallis tests), and parametric tests (Pearson's correlation). RESULTS: Children with obesity had a significantly higher level of C-reactive protein [2.90 mg/L (0.07-9.37)] compared with children with a normal percentage of fat mass [0.71 mg/L (0.07-5.75)] (p < 0.001). No differences between groups were identified regarding serum levels of tumor necrosis factor-alfa. Modest correlations were identified between serum levels of C-reactive protein, adiposity determined by bioimpedance analysis (r = 0.453, p < 0.001); body mass index (r = 0.398, p = 0.001); triceps skinfold (r = 0.369, p = 0.002); and subescapular skinfold (r = 0.405, p < 0.001). No correlation was found between adiposity and serum tumor necrosis factor-alfa. CONCLUSION: Subclinical inflammation manifested by higher serum levels of C-reactive protein was identified in schoolchildren with higher percentage of fat mass as determined by bioimpedance analysis and other anthropometric measurements.

Introducción: Las enfermedades crónico-degenerativas, secundarias a la obesidad en niños, ha alertado a los profesionales de la salud sobre la importancia de identificar los factores de riesgo asociados a obesidad y establecer un enfoque preventivo para reducir el riesgo de complicaciones. Algunos estudios realizados en población pediátrica han estudiado el papel de los biomarcadores inflamatorios [específicamente proteína C-reactiva (PCR) y factor de necrosis tumoral alfa (TNF-)] asociado a adiposidad con resultados inconsistentes. Objetivo: Evaluar la relación entre los niveles séricos de PCR y TNF-con adiposidad determinada mediante impedancia bioeléctrica en niños en edad escolar. Métodos: Diseño transversal analítico. Se recopilaron los datos de 74 alumnos seleccionados al azar en una escuela primaria local en la ciudad de Colima, México. La edad media fue de 9,4 años (1.5 DE), treinta y tres (44.6%) fueron niñas. La adiposidad (porcentaje de grasa) se midió mediante impedancia bioeléctrica y antropometría. La PCR y TNF-séricos se determinaron con el ensayo por inmunoabsorción ligado a enzimas (ELISA). Las comparaciones de las variables entre los grupos se analizaron con pruebas no paramétricas (U de Mann Whitney y Kruskall Wallis) y la correlación de Pearson. Resultados: Los niños con obesidad presentaron un nivel sérico [2,90 mg/L (0,07-9,37)] significativamente más alto de PCR en comparación con los niños con un porcentaje normal de grasa [0,71 mg/L (0,07-5,75)] (p < 0,001). Con respecto a los niveles séricos de TNF-no se identificaron diferencias entre los grupos estudiados. Se obtuvieron correlaciones modestas entre los niveles séricos de PCR con la adiposidad determinado por impedancia bioeléctrica (r = 0,453, p < 0,001); índice de masa corporal (r = 0,398, p = 0,001); pliegue cutáneo tricipital (r = 0,369, p = 0,002), y pliegue cutáneo subescapular (r = 0,405, p < 0,001). No se encontró correlación entre la adiposidad y el nivel sérico de TNF-. Conclusión: La inflamación subclínica determinada por elevación de los niveles séricos de proteína C-reactiva fue identificada en niños en edad escolar con mayor porcentaje de grasa determinado por impedancia bioeléctrica y antropometría.

Levels of eicosapentaenoic acid in obese schoolchildren with and without insulin resistance.

BACKGROUND: Obesity in children is now an increasing health risk worldwide in which the insulin-resistance can be present. Studies have linked a diet rich in n-3 fatty acids with a lower prevalence of insulin-resistance. OBJECTIVE: To compare the levels of eicosapentaenoic acid among obese children with and without insulin-resistance. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In 56 randomly school-age children with obesity, insulin-resistance was determined by the homeostasis model assessment for insulin-resistance index and the serum levels of eicosapentaenoic acid were determined by gas chromatography. Insulin-resistance was established when the index was >6.0, non- insulin- resistance when that index was within the range of 1.4-5.9. The serum levels of eicosapentaenoic acid were compared with the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests, as needed. RESULTS: No differences in age or sex were identified among the groups studied. The anthropometric parameters were significantly higher in the group of children with insulin-resistance than in the other two groups. The children with insulin- resistance had significantly lower levels of eicosapentaenoic acid than the non- insulin-resistance group [12.4% area under the curve vs. 37.4%, p = 0.031], respectively. CONCLUSION: Obese primary school-aged children with insulin-resistance had lower plasma levels of eicosapentaenoic acid.

Introducción: La obesidad en los niños es un problema de salud pública en todo el mundo y la resistencia a la insulina puede estar presente. Existen estudios publicados que han relacionado una dieta rica en n-3 ácidos grasos con una menor prevalencia de resistencia a la insulina en sujetos obesos. Objetivo: Comparar los niveles de ácido eicosapentaenoico en niños escolares obesos con y sin resistencia a la insulina. Métodos: Se eligieron al azar 56 niños en edad escolar con obesidad, a los cuales se les determinó resistencia a la insulina mediante la evaluación del modelo de homeostasis para el índice de resistencia a la insulina y se determinaron los niveles séricos de ácido eicosapentaenoico por cromatografía de gases. La resistencia a la insulina se estableció cuando el índice fue> 6,0, no resistencia a la insulina cuando ese índice fue.

Prevalencia de anemia en estudiantes de enfermería / Prevalence of anemia in nursing students

Introducción: La anemia es definida como el descenso en la concentración de hemoglobina por debajo de los límites considerados como normales para un determinado colectivo de individuos de la misma edad, sexo y condiciones medioambientales. Objetivo: Identificar la prevalencia de anemia por género y semestre en estudiantes de enfermería. Metodología: Estudio transversal descriptivo que compara 2 grupos de alumnos de enfermería (10 y 5o n=37 c/u) cuyas cargas horarias difieren significativamente de acuerdo al plan de estudios vigente. El diagnóstico de anemia se realizó mediante análisis espectrofotométrico de la concentración sérica de hemoglobina. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva para determinar la frecuencia y prevalencia, X2 con OR para valorar la asociación de anemia con el semestre cursado y t de Student para comparar los valores de hemoglobina promedio por género y semestre, estableciéndose una p<0.05 en ambas pruebas. Resultados: Prevalencia por género: mujeres, se observó anemia en 23.3% del 5o semestre respecto a las del primero (3.3%). Hombres, 5o semestre presentó anemia en 14.3%, en tanto que primero no reportó casos positivos. Prevalencia por semestre: 5° presentó 21.6% y 1o, 2.7%. El análisis con X2 demostró diferencias significativas entre prevalencias de ambos grupos (p=0.03); t de Student evidenció diferencias significativas entre ambos grupos respecto a los valores promedio de hemoglobina en mujeres (p=0.001), más no en hombres (p=0.86). Conclusiones: La prevalencia de anemia fue mayor en mujeres que en hombres y fue 5o semestre en el que se observó en ambos géneros más casos de hemoglobinas bajas y consecuentemente de anemia.

Introduction: Anemia is defined as the decrease in the concentration of hemoglobin under limits that are considered as normal for a determined group of individuals about the same age, gender, and environmental conditions. Objective: To identify the prevalence of anemia by gender and semester in nursing students. Methodology: Transversal and descriptive study that compare two groups of nursing students (1 st. and 5th n=37 each) whose school time-spending differ significantly according to the current curriculum. The diagnosis of anemia was done through spectral-photometric analysis of serum hemoglobin concentration. Descriptive statistics were utilized to determine frequency and prevalence: X2 with OR to assess the association of anemia with the semester that is being taken and t-student to compare the average hemoglobin values by gender and semester, obtaining p<0.05 in both tests. Results: Prevalence by gender: 23.3% women taking the 5th semester had anemia, related to women taking the first one (3.3%). 14.3% men taking the 5th semester had anemia, meanwhile those in first semester did not report any positive case. Prevalence by semester: 5th semester had 21.6% and 1st semester 2.7%. X2 analysis showed significant differences between prevalence in both groups (p=0.03); t-student gave evidence for significant differences between both groups regarding to the average values of hemoglobin in women (p=0.001), but not in men (p=0.86). Conclusions: Prevalence of anemia was more frequent in women than men, and the 5th semester was in which both genders had more cases of low hemoglobin and consequently anemia.