Health-related educational inequalities in paid employment across 26 European countries in 2005-2014: repeated cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: The study investigates the trends in health-related inequalities in paid employment among men and women in different educational groups in 26 countries in 5 European regions. DESIGN: Individual-level analysis of repeated cross-sectional annual data (2005-2014) from the EU Statistics on Income and Living Conditions. SETTING: 26 European countries in 5 European regions. PARTICIPANTS: 1 844 915 individuals aged 30-59 years were selected with information on work status, chronic illness, educational background, age and gender. OUTCOME MEASURES: Absolute differences were expressed by absolute differences in proportion in paid employment between participants with and without a chronic illness, using linear regression. Relative differences were expressed by prevalence ratios in paid employment, using a Cox proportional hazard model. Linear regression was used to examine the trends of inequalities. RESULTS: Participants with a chronic illness had consistently lower labour force participation than those without illnesses. Educational inequalities were substantial with absolute differences larger within lower educated (men 21%-35%, women 10%-31%) than within higher educated (men 5%-13%, women 6%-16%). Relative differences showed that low-educated men with a chronic illness were 1.4-1.9 times (women 1.3-1.8 times) more likely to be out of paid employment than low-educated persons without a chronic illness, whereas this was 1.1-1.2 among high-educated men and women. In the Nordic, Anglo-Saxon and Eastern regions, these health-related educational inequalities in paid employment were more pronounced than in the Continental and Southern region. For most regions, absolute health-related educational inequalities in paid employment were generally constant, whereas relative inequalities increased, especially among low-educated persons. CONCLUSIONS: Men and women with a chronic illness have considerable less access to the labour market than their healthy colleagues, especially among lower educated persons. This exclusion from paid employment will increase health inequalities.

A change in the prevalence and the etiological factors of chronic wounds in Helsinki metropolitan area during 2008-2016.

The prevalence of chronic wounds in the Helsinki metropolitan area in 2008 was investigated. Thereafter, a specialised wound care team was founded as part of the City of Helsinki Health Services, aiming for early diagnoses of chronic wounds. In the current study, we have repeated the prevalence study to analyse the changes in the prevalence of chronic wounds. A questionnaire on wound patients was sent to all units of social and health care in the Helsinki metropolitan area. We asked about the number of patients with wounds treated during a 24-hour period, as well the aetiology and location of the wounds. A total of 911 patients had, altogether, 1021 wounds. Thus, prevalence was 0.08%. Pressure and multifactorial ulcers were the most common aetiological groups, whereas wound without defined aetiology had diminished greatly (61%) The prevalence of chronic wound decreased when compared with 2008 (0.08% vs 0.1%). The number of elderly people aged over 65 years had increased 35%, and the age-adjusted prevalence had decreased. Wounds are treated mostly in primary care units and as outpatients. Therefore, the following conclusion may be reached: diagnostic process and implementation of treatment paths are strengthened within primary care units, yet prevalence of wounds has decreased.

The Public Health Impact of Parent-Reported Childhood Food Allergies in the United States.

: media-1vid110.1542/5840360268001PEDS-VA_2018-1235Video Abstract BACKGROUND: Childhood food allergy (FA) is a life-threatening chronic condition that substantially impairs quality of life. This large, population-based survey estimates childhood FA prevalence and severity of all major allergenic foods. Detailed allergen-specific information was also collected regarding FA management and health care use. METHODS: A survey was administered to US households between 2015 and 2016, obtaining parent-proxy responses for 38 408 children. Prevalence estimates were based on responses from NORC at the University of Chicago's nationally representative, probability-based AmeriSpeak Panel (51% completion rate), which were augmented by nonprobability-based responses via calibration weighting to increase precision. Prevalence was estimated via weighted proportions. Multiple logistic regression models were used to evaluate FA predictors. RESULTS: Overall, estimated current FA prevalence was 7.6% (95% confidence interval: 7.1%-8.1%) after excluding 4% of children whose parent-reported FA reaction history was inconsistent with immunoglobulin E-mediated FA. The most prevalent allergens were peanut (2.2%), milk (1.9%), shellfish (1.3%), and tree nut (1.2%). Among food-allergic children, 42.3% reported ≥1 severe FA and 39.9% reported multiple FA. Furthermore, 19.0% reported ≥1 FA-related emergency department visit in the previous year and 42.0% reported ≥1 lifetime FA-related emergency department visit, whereas 40.7% had a current epinephrine autoinjector prescription. Prevalence rates were higher among African American children and children with atopic comorbidities. CONCLUSIONS: FA is a major public health concern, affecting ∼8% of US children. However, >11% of children were perceived as food-allergic, suggesting that the perceived disease burden may be greater than previously acknowledged.

Epidemiological Trend of Typhoid and Paratyphoid Fevers in Zhejiang Province, China from 1953 to 2014.

Background: The incidences of typhoid and paratyphoid remain high and these diseases still pose a public health problem in China and in Zhejiang Province in particular. This study aimed to investigate the trend of typhoid and paratyphoid in Zhejiang Province from 1953 to 2014 and to provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and control of these diseases. Methods: Included in this study were compiled epidemiological data of typhoid and paratyphoid cases in Zhejiang from 1953 to 2003 and epidemiological data of those from 2004 to 2014 registered in the China Information System for Diseases Control and Prevention. Description methods were employed to explore the epidemiological characteristics, including long-term trend, gender distribution, age distribution, and occupation distribution. Incidence maps were made to represent the annual average incidences for each municipality. Spearman's rank correlation was performed to detect the correlation between incidence and average elevation, and circular distribution was calculated to identify the seasonality and peak days of the diseases. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 182,602 typhoid and paratyphoid cases were reported in Zhejiang Province from 1953 to 2014, and the average annual incidence was 7.89 per 100,000 population. The incidence in 2014 decreased by 93.82% compared with that in 1953 and by 95.00% compared with the highest incidence rate. The average incidence before 2003 was negatively correlated with the average elevation of each region in Zhejiang province (r < 0, p < 0.05), but there was no statistically significant correlation from 2003. The peak period of diseases fell in the months from April to October every year. The incidence among the population group aged over 35 rose gradually but declined sharply among those between 20 and 34. Conclusions: The incidence of typhoid and paratyphoid decreased in Zhejiang Province from 1953 to 2014 but remained high in some regions. Proper measures for prevention and control are warranted in the southeast coast areas and for high-risk populations.

Prevalence and risk factors to Leptospira sp. infection in dogs attended at veterinary clinics in João Pessoa, Paraíba State, Northeastern Brazil / Prevalência e fatores de risco da infecção por Leptospira sp. em cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias em João Pessoa, Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil

This study investigated the prevalence and risk factors associated with Leptospira sp. in dogs attended at veterinary clinics in the city of João Pessoa, State of Paraíba, Northeast Brazil. A total of 384 blood samples from dogs from 34 veterinary clinics were used from April 2015 to May 2016. The serological Leptospira sp diagnosis was carried out through Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT), using a collection of 20 pathogenic antigens and adopting a 1:100 dilution as cutoff point. An epidemiological questionnaire was applied to the animal's owners to obtain the information used in risk factors analysis. The prevalence of seropositive animals was 11.7% (45/384), with reactions for serogroups Icterohaemorrhagiae (62.3%), Grippotyphosa (22.2%), Canicola (13.3%), Djasiman 2%) and Pomona (2.2%). The following risk factors were identified: age from 49 to 72 months (odds ratio = 2.74); Age > 72 months (odds ratio = 3.22); and monthly cleaning of the environment where the animals were kept (odds ratio = 10.70). We concluded that dogs attended at veterinary clinics in João Pessoa are exposed to Leptospira sp infection, with predominance of serogroups kept by wild or synanthropic animals, and suggest a monthly periodic environment cleaning where the animals are kept.(AU)

O presente trabalho investigou a prevalência e os fatores de risco associados à infecção por Leptospira sp. em cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias da cidade de João Pessoa, Estado da Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. Foram utilizadas 384 amostras sanguíneas de cães provenientes de 34 clínicas veterinárias no período de abril de 2015 a maio de 2016. O diagnóstico da infecção por Leptospira sp. foi realizado com o emprego reação de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (SAM), utilizando uma coleção com 20 antígenos patogênicos e adotando como ponto de corte a diluição 1:100. Foi aplicado um questionário epidemiológico aos proprietários dos animais para obtenção de dados a serem utilizados na análise de fatores de risco. A prevalência de animais soropositivos foi de 11,7% (45/384), com reações para os sorogrupos Icterohaemorrhagiae (62,3%), Grippotyphosa (22,2%), Canicola (13,3%), Djasiman (2,2%) e Pomona (2,2%). Foram identificados os seguintes fatores de risco: idade entre 49 e 72 meses (odds ratio = 2,74), idade maior que 72 meses (odds ratio = 3,22), e limpeza mensal do ambiente onde os animais permanecem (odds ratio = 10,70). Conclui-se que cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias de João Pessoa estão expostos à infecção por Leptospira sp., com predominância de sorogrupos mantidos por animais selvagens, e foi sugerida a realização da limpeza periódica do ambiente ocupado pelos animais.(AU)

Posttraumatic stress disorder and chronic pain are associated with opioid use disorder: Results from a 2012-2013 American nationally representative survey.

BACKGROUND: Chronic pain conditions and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) commonly co-occur and are associated with opioid use disorder (OUD). The aims of this paper were to identify prevalence estimates of OUD among individuals with and without PTSD and assess independent and combined contributions of PTSD and chronic pain conditions on OUD in a nationally representative sample. METHODS: Data were extracted from 36,309 individuals from the 2012-2013 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions. Past-year PTSD and OUD were assessed using the Alcohol Use Disorder and Associated Disabilities Interview Schedule-DSM-5 edition. Respondents reported physician-confirmed, past-year chronic pain conditions, categorized into musculoskeletal pain (e.g., arthritis), digestive pain (e.g., pancreatitis), and nerve pain (e.g., reflex sympathetic dystrophy). We examined the weighted prevalence of OUD among those with and without PTSD. Multiple logistic regressions examined the association between PTSD and chronic pain conditions on OUD. RESULTS: The prevalence of OUD was higher among those with PTSD than those without. Comorbid PTSD/musculoskeletal pain and PTSD/nerve pain conditions were associated with increased odds of OUD, compared to those with neither PTSD nor chronic pain conditions. Digestive pain conditions were not associated with OUD. Comorbid PTSD/musculoskeletal pain conditions demonstrated an additive relationship on OUD compared to musculoskeletal pain conditions and PTSD alone. CONCLUSIONS: Results reveal that musculoskeletal pain and nerve pain conditions are associated with increased odds of OUD, but only musculoskeletal pain conditions display an additive relationship on OUD when combined with PTSD. These findings have implications for opioid management and screening among those with comorbid conditions.

Effectiveness Evaluation of Additional Risk Minimization Measures for Adolescent Use of Aripiprazole in the European Union: Results from a Post-Authorization Safety Study.

INTRODUCTION: Two risk minimization (RM) tools-a healthcare professional frequently asked questions (HCP-FAQs) brochure and a patient/caregiver information brochure (PCIB)-were developed for HCPs and for adolescents (aged ≥ 13 years) receiving aripiprazole for bipolar I mania and their caregivers. OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the effectiveness of these RM tools in improving the awareness and education of HCPs and patients/caregivers. METHOD: The RM tools were distributed to HCPs (identified in agreement with the marketing authorization holder [MAH] and local regulatory authorities), who in turn distributed the PCIBs to patients/caregivers. A web-based survey was then conducted targeting HCPs and patients/caregivers. RESULTS: The response rate was low: 118 of 23,282 invited HCPs and 16 patients/caregivers completed the survey. Overall, 42% (49/118) of HCP respondents were aware of aripiprazole RM tools; of these, 59% (29/49) of HCPs read them at least once and 66% (19/29) of these used the RM tools while discussing the benefit-risk profile of aripiprazole with patients/caregivers. In total, 30 of the 118 HCPs (25%) were aware of the PCIB, and 26 distributed it to their patients/caregivers, whereas seven HCPs advised them to read the brochure. Overall, 15 of the 16 patients/caregivers were aware of the PCIB, and 13 read/referred to it. Of these, 12 found the PCIB useful, and five monitored their weight while receiving aripiprazole and reported potential risks immediately to their HCP. CONCLUSION: The response rate to the survey was low, and the tools displayed limited utility and effectiveness in improving awareness and education in a small number of responders. Therefore, the aripiprazole risk management plan was amended, and the tools were discontinued.

Relationship between caries, body mass index and social class in Spanish children / Relación entre la caries, el índice de masa corporal y la clase social en niños españoles

Objective: To determine the association between caries, body mass index (BMI) and social class in child population of the Valencia region (Spain) at 6, 12 and 15 years, and study. Methods: In a cross sectional study of 1326 children aged 6 (n=488), 12 (n=409) and 15 years (n=433) who took part in the 2010 Oral Health Survey of the Valencia region, the ICDAS II criteria were employed for diagnosing and coding all the teeth examined. The quantitative BMI values on a continuous scale were grouped into 3 categories (normal weight, overweight, obese) based on a table adjusted for age and gender. The highest-ranking occupation of the parents was taken to indicate the social class of the child. Results: The mean BMI was 17.21 at 6 years, 21.39 at 12 years and 22.38 at 15 years. No significant differences in caries indexes (DMFT or dft) by degree of obesity stratified by social class were found in any of the age groups studied. There was no significant correlation between BMI and DMFT-dft in any of the age groups. Conclusions: Obesity is not associated with dental caries in schoolchildren of this population (AU)

Objetivo: Determinar la asociación entre la caries, el índice de masa corporal (IMC) y la clase social en la población infantil de la Comunidad Valenciana (España) a los 6, 12 y 15 años de edad. Método: Se realizó un estudio transversal con una muestra de 1326 niños/as de 6 años (n=488), 12 años (n=409) y 15 años (n=433) de edad. Se emplearon los criterios del ICDAS II para el diagnóstico y la codificación de todos los dientes examinados. Los valores cuantitativos del IMC se agruparon en tres categorías (peso normal, sobrepeso y obesidad) según una tabla ajustada por edad y sexo. Para determinar la clase social se consideró la ocupación de mayor nivel de los padres. Resultados: La media del IMC fue de 17,21 a los 6 años, de 21,39 a los 12 años y de 22,38 a los 15 años. No se observaron diferencias significativas en los índices de caries (DMFT o dft) por grado de obesidad y estratificado según clase social en ninguno de los grupos de edad. No hubo correlación significativa entre el IMC y el DMFT-dft en ninguno de los grupos. Conclusiones: La obesidad no está asociada con la caries dental en los niños y las niñas de la muestra estudiada (AU)

Cambio de modelo asistencial en la atención al parto normal: aplicación en el paritorio de La Ribera / Change of care model in natural childbirth: implementation in La Ribera delivery room

Objetivo. Valorar el conocimiento, el deseo de inclusión y la aplicación, en el Hospital Universitario de La Ribera, de los protocolos de atención al parto normal, valorando los motivos por los que no se aplican y el cumplimiento de la asistencia a actividades formativas preparto. Material y método. Estudio descriptivo transversal. Realización de 186 encuestas mediante muestreo de conveniencia a gestantes que acudieron a control de bienestar fetal en el hospital entre 2014 y 2015. Se recogieron datos sobre conocimiento, deseo de inclusión y cumplimiento de protocolos, motivos de no cumplimiento y asistencia a actividades formativas. Se calcularon porcentajes e intervalos de confianza. Se utilizó test de la Chi-cuadrado para comparación de variables categóricas. Resultados. Se recogieron porcentajes de conocimiento del 77% (IC95%: 75,5-78,5) y de deseo de inclusión del 84,6% (IC95%: 82,5-86,7) de los protocolos. El cumplimiento varió desde el 6% (administración de óxido nitroso) hasta el 91% (contacto piel con piel). El principal motivo de no cumplimiento fue el relacionado con las circunstancias del parto (56,3%, IC95%: 51,1-61,5). La asistencia a la preparación al parto fue del 62%, con mayor cumplimiento en primíparas (p=0,0001) con nivel de estudios medio-alto (p=0,001). Conclusiones. Las gestantes tienen un elevado conocimiento y deseo de inclusión de los protocolos de atención al parto normal. La asistencia a actividades formativas preparto es mejorable y el principal motivo de no asistencia es la falta de información. El cumplimiento es bueno en la mayoría de los protocolos; cuando no se aplican es debido a las circunstancias del parto. Queda pendiente introducir protocolos aún sin implantar e implicar a las gestantes en la toma de decisiones (AU)

Objective. To assess knowledge, wish for inclusion and implementation of normal childbirth care protocols at La Ribera University Hospital, the reason why they are not applied, and to assess the attendance at antepartum training activities. Material and method. Cross-sectional descriptive study. They were carried out 186 surveys by convenience sampling to pregnant women attending fetal well-being control at hospital between 2014 and 2015. They were collected data about knowledge, wish for inclusion, compliance of protocols and reasons for non-compliance, and attendance at antepartum training activities. Percentages and confidence intervals were calculated. Chi-square test was used to compare categorical variables. Results. They were collected percentages of knowledge (77%, CI95%: 75,5-78,5) and wish for inclusion (84,6%, CI95%: 82,5-86,7). Protocol compliance ranged from 6% (nitrous oxide administration) to 91% (skin-to-skin contact). The main reasons for non-compliance were due to circumstances of childbirth process (56,3%, CI95%: 51,1-61,5). Attendance at maternal education classes was 62%, mainly primiparous women (p=0,0001) with medium or high education level (p=0,001). Conclusions. Pregnant women have a high knowledge and wish for inclusion of normal childbirth care protocols. Attendance at antepartum training activities could by improved and the main reason for non-attendance is lack of information. Compliance is good enough in most protocols; when they are not applied is due to childbirth circumstances. Remaining tasks include the introduction of additional protocols and to involve pregnant women in decision-making (AU)

Factores que dificultan la alimentación por vía oral del anciano hospitalizado / Fatores que dificultam a alimentação por via oral do idoso hospitalizado / Factors that make it difficult the oral feeding in elderly hospitalized

Identificar los factores que dificultan la alimentación por vía oral en pacientes ancianos hospitalizados. Es esta una investigación cualitativa, con delineamiento transversal, desarrollada con 111 ancianos hospitalizados en una institución hospitalaria ubicada en el sur del Rio Grande do Sul. Para recolección de datos se ha utilizado un instrumento denominado Escala de Evaluación Alimentaria para el Anciano Hospitalizado. Ha sido realizado un análisis factorial y descriptivo. Los datos cuantitativos generados fueron digitalizados y organizados en el software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, versión 20.0. Fueron identificados cuatro valores relacionados con la dificultad de alimentación por vía oral por los ancianos hospitalizados: factores ambientales, alimentarios, fisiológicos y los relacionados con el equipo de salud. Los factores ambientales se destacaron como aquellos que más dificultan la alimentación por vía oral de los pacientes ancianos hospitalizados, más fielmente los ítems que contemplan el dolor, la depresión y el uso/ acción de las medicinas (AU)

Identificar os fatores que mais dificultam a alimentação por via oral em pacientes idosos hospitalizados. Trata-se de uma pesquisa quantitativa, com delineamento transversal, desenvolvida com 111 idosos hospitalizados em uma instituição hospitalar localizada ao sul do Rio Grande do Sul. Para coleta de dados foi utilizado um instrumento denominado Escala de Avaliação Alimentar para o Idoso Hospitalizado. Foi realizada análise fatorial e descritiva. Os dados quantitativos gerados foram digitalizados e organizados no software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, versão 20.0. Foram identificados quatro fatores relacionados a dificuldade de alimentação por via oral pelos idosos hospitalizados: fatores ambientais, alimentares, fisiológicos e os relacionados a equipe de saúde. Os fatores ambientais se destacaram como aqueles que mais dificultam a alimentação por via oral dos pacientes idosos hospitalizados, mais precisamente os itens que contemplam a dor, a depressão e o uso/ação de medicamentos (AU)

It aims to identify the factors that make it difficult the oral feeding in hospitalized elderly patients. This is a quantitative research with cross-sectional design, developed with 111 elderly hospitalized in a hospital located south of Rio Grande do Sul. For data collection it was used an instrument called Food Rating Scale for the Elderly Hospitalized. A factorial and descriptive analysis was performed. The quantitative data produced were scanned and organized in the software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 20.0. It was identified four factors related to the difficulty at oral feeding by the hospitalized elderly: environmental factors, eating, physiological and the ones related to the health team. Environmental factors stood out as those that cause the oral feeding to be more difficult in hospitalized elderly patients, specifically the items that include pain, depression and the use/action of drugs (AU)

Perfil sintomático de los pacientes con Enfermedad Renal Crónica Estadio 4 y 5 / Symptomatic profile of patients with Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 4 and 5

Introducción: Los pacientes con Enfermedad Renal Crónica Avanzada (ERCA) experimentan una gran variedad de síntomas que afectan negativamente la calidad de vida del paciente. Objetivos: Determinar la prevalencia e intensidad de síntomas y analizar su asociación con el filtrado glomerular (FG) y la comorbilidad. Material y Método: Estudio transversal en el que se describe la sintomatología del paciente con ERCA en diálisis y prediálisis y se realiza un análisis de la asociación de los síntomas con el FG y la comorbilidad. Para la evaluación de síntomas se utilizó la versión española modificada de la Palliative care Outcome Scale-Symptoms Renal (POS-S Renal), un cuestionario validado para evaluar la sintomatología en esta población. La comorbilidad fue evaluada con el índice de comorbilidad de Charlson modificado (ICCm). Resultados: 180 pacientes con ERCA fueron incluidos en este estudio. Más del 44% de pacientes describieron debilidad, dolor, depresión y dificultad para dormir. Se encontraron diferencias significativas en ambos grupos para síntomas como la debilidad (p=0.027), poca movilidad (p=0.018), somnolencia (p=0.03), estreñimiento (p=0.015) y piernas inquietas (p<0.01). El declive de la función renal se asoció con la sintomatología (p=0,04). No encontramos asociación entre la comorbilidad y la sintomatología (p=0,15). Conclusiones: Los pacientes con ERCA sufren una elevada carga de síntomas. La evaluación y monitorización sistemática de síntomas mediante herramientas como el POS-S Renal puede ser útil en el ámbito clínico y en investigación. La integración de los Cuidados Paliativos en los Servicios de Nefrología puede contribuir a la optimización del manejo sintomático en esta población (AU)

Introduction: Patients with Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease (ACKD) experience multiple symptoms that negatively affect the quality of life. Aims: To determine the prevalence and severity of symptoms, and their association with the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and comorbidities. Material and method: A cross-sectional study to examine the prevalence of symptoms in patients with ACKD on dialysis and predialysis, and their association with GFR and comorbidities was carried out. Symptom data were collected using the Spanish modified version of Palliative care Outcome Scale- Symptoms Renal (POS-S Renal), a validated questionnaire to assess symptoms in this population. Comorbidity was collected and scored according to the modified Charlson Comorbidity Index (mCCI). Results: The study sample included 180 patients with ACKD. More than 44% of patients described weakness, pain, depression and difficulty sleeping. There was a significant difference in the prevalence of symptoms between groups for weakness (p=0.027), poor mobility (p=0.018), drowsiness (p=0.03), constipation (p=0.015) and restless legs (p<0.01). There was no association between disease severity and symptoms (p=0,04). There was no significant correlation between comorbidities and symptoms (p=0,15). Conclusions: Patients with ACKD experience a high level of symptom burden. Routine symptom assessment using tools such as the POS-S Renal can be useful in clinical and research settings. Integrating the principles of Palliative Care in Nephrology Services can be beneficial for optimizing the symptom management in this population (AU)

Body-Image Acceptance and Action Questionnaire: Its deleterious influence on binge eating and psychometric validation / Body-Image Acceptance and Action Questionnaire: su nociva influencia en la ingesta compulsiva y validación psicométrica

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to explore the psychometric properties of BI-AAQ (Body-Image Acceptance and Action Questionnaire) and the body image psychological flexibility role as a mediator in a pervasive path towards binge eating in Brazilian samples. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted in clinical (overweight or obese women currently in treatment for weight loss; n= 330) and non-clinical (general population; n= 682) groups of women. Results: BI-AAQ has one-factor structure, excellent internal consistency, ability to detect differences between groups and measurement invariance across samples. It was also negatively associated with self-compassion and positively associated with binge eating severity, drive for thinness and self-criticism. Conclusions: This study provides data confirming the robust psychometric properties of BI-AAQ in qualitatively different samples. Furthermore, an additional study conducted in a clinical sample of women with overweight or obesity revealed that body image psychological inflexibility has emerged as a partial and significant mediator of the effect of self-criticism and drive for thinness on binge eating severity (AU)

Antecedentes/Objetivo: Este estudio tuvo como objetivo explorar las propiedades psicométricas del BI-AAQ (Body-Image Acceptance and Action Questionnaire) y el papel mediador de la inflexibilidad psicológica relacionada con la imagen corporal en una trayectoria nociva hacia la ingesta compulsiva en muestras brasileñas. Método: Este estudio transversal se llevó a cabo en grupos clínicos (mujeres con sobrepeso u obesidad actualmente en tratamiento para la pérdida de peso; n= 330) y no clínicos (grupo de población general; n= 682) de mujeres. Resultados: BI-AAQ presenta la estructura de un factor, excelente consistencia interna, capacidad para detectar diferencias entre grupos e invariancia de medida entre diferentes muestras. Sus puntuaciones se asociaron negativamente con la autocompasión y positivamente con la severidad de la compulsión alimentaria, búsqueda de la delgadez y autocrítica. Conclusiones: Este estudio proporcionó datos que confirman que el BI-AAQ tiene propiedades psicométricas sólidas en muestras cualitativamente diferentes. Además, un estudio adicional efectuado en una muestra clínica de mujeres con sobrepeso u obesidad reveló que la inflexibilidad psicológica relacionada con la imagen corporal emergió como mediadora parcial y significativa del efecto de la autocrítica y de la búsqueda de la delgadez sobre la severidad de la compulsión alimentaria (AU)

Trends in hepatitis C antibody prevalence among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people attending Australian Needle and Syringe Programs, 1996-2015.

BACKGROUND: Research indicates that hepatitis C antibody (anti-HCV) prevalence is higher among Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (Aboriginal) than non-Aboriginal people who inject drugs (PWID). We examined trends in demographic and drug use characteristics and anti-HCV prevalence among Australian Needle and Syringe Program Survey (ANSPS) respondents by Aboriginal status from 1996 to 2015. METHODS: The ANSPS survey involved collecting demographic, behavioural data and a dried blood spot for anti-HCV testing. We used logistic regression to determine demographic and behavioural factors associated with testing anti-HCV positive in the following time-periods (1996-2000, 2001-2005, 2006-2010, 2011-2015) among Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal PWID respondents. RESULTS: Overall, there were 16,948 PWID, with 11% identifying as Aboriginal. The proportion of Aboriginal respondents increased from 7% in 1996-2000 to 16% in 2011-2015. Overall anti-HCV prevalence was significantly higher among Aboriginal (60%) than non-Aboriginal PWID (52%, p<0.01). Receptive syringe sharing (RSS) declined among non-Aboriginal PWID (p<0.001) over time, however among Aboriginal PWID, RSS remained stable (p=0.619). Factors independently associated with testing positive for anti-HCV among Aboriginal PWID in 2011-2015 were 16 or more years since first injection (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 6.04, p<0.001), history of incarceration (AOR: 1.74, p=0.010) and currently or previously on opioid substitution therapy (AOR: 1.89, p=0.003). Compared to 1996-2000, testing anti-HCV positive was significantly associated with the time-periods: 2001-2005 (unadjusted odds ratio [OR]: 1.39, p<0.001), 2006-2010 (OR: 1.38, p<0.001) and 2011-2015 (OR: 1.25, p<0.001) among non-Aboriginal PWID; however this increase did not occur among Aboriginal PWID. CONCLUSION: The proportion of Aboriginal PWID attending Needle Syringe Programs appears to have increased. Overall, the prevalence of anti-HCV has remained higher among Aboriginal than non-Aboriginal PWID. Coupling increased access to NSPs with new interferon-free HCV treatments and culturally appropriate education and counselling services could influence new HCV infections among Aboriginal PWID.

Serum levels of adiponectin and leptin in asthmatic patients and its relation with asthma severity, lung function and BMI

INTRODUCTION: Asthma is one of the diseases which has a high prevalence in developed and developing countries. The relationship between asthma and obesity has always been focused by researchers. In this field, adipokines, especially adiponectin and leptin have highly attended by the scientist. The aim of this study was to determine the serum level of adiponectin, leptin and the leptin/adiponectin ratio in asthmatic patients and its relationship with disease severity, lung function and BMI (body mass index). METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 90 asthmatic women admitted to the tertiary referral hospital in Kurdistan province - Iran, were examined. First, BMI was measured and then pulmonary function tests were performed in all asthmatics patient. Forced expiratory volume in 1s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), and FEV1/FVC, were measured. At the end, blood samples were collected and serum level of adiponectin and leptin were measured by ELISA method. RESULT: Serum leptin and leptin/adiponectin levels correlated positively with asthma severity and BMI (p = 0.0001), but there was no correlation between adiponectin level with asthma severity and BMI (p > 0.05), also serum leptin and leptin/adiponectin levels inversely correlated with FEV1 and FVC in patient (p = 0.0001). CONCLUSION: Asthma is linked with obesity, and there is an association between asthma severity and BMI with serum leptin and leptin/adiponectin levels, but our results do not support a significant role of adiponectin in obesity or asthma

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Cribado y caracterización bioquímica del hiperparatiroidismo primario en Guayaquil (Ecuador) / Screening and biochemical characterization of primary hyperparathyroidism in Guayaquil (Ecuador)

Objetivos: Conocer la prevalencia del hiperparatiroidismo primario (HPTP) mediante el cribado con la determinación de PTH y calcio iónico, en una muestra poblacional de Guayaquil (Ecuador). Materiales y métodos: Estudio transversal, prospectivo, realizado entre el 1 enero de 2009 y el 30 noviembre de 2014, en 13.860 personas que acudieron a exámenes de control rutinarios. A todos se les determino en suero la hormona paratiroidea (PTH), el calcio iónico, la creatinina sérica y la 25(OH) vitamina D total (VD total). Se confirmó el diagnóstico de HPTP si el nivel de PTH y/o calcio iónico se mantenía elevado al menos en dos ocasiones diferentes. Se excluyeron los casos con elevación de la creatinina sérica, malabsorción, hepatopatías crónicas, insuficiencia de vitamina D, o los que recibían tratamientos que alteran el metabolismo fosfocálcico. Resultados: Se encontró 61 casos con la PTH elevada al menos en dos ocasiones diferentes. Entre estos, 34 presentaban insuficiencia de vitamina D y fueron excluidos del análisis. En 27 casos (4 hombres y 23 mujeres) se confirmó el diagnóstico de HPTP. La edad media en mujeres fue de 64,5±15,4 años y en hombres de 71,3±12,8 años; los valores de PTH medios fueron 115±24,2 pg/ml; de calcio iónico, 5,15±0,4 mg/dl; de VD total, 47,1±20,2 ng/ml; y de creatinina sérica 0,84±0,2 mg/ml; La prevalencia de HPTP corresponde a 2 casos por mil adultos (IC 95%: 1,71-2,18). El mayor incremento en la prevalencia ocurrió en mujeres ?60 años. Conclusión: En esta muestra, la prevalencia de HPTP es baja comparada con la reportada en series internacionales, siendo mayor en edades avanzadas y en mujeres. Con el cribado propuesto de PTH y calcio iónico encontramos en la mayoría de los casos la forma normocalcémica de HPTP (AU)

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of primary hyperparathyroidism (HPTP) using PTH and Ionic calcium screening in a population sample of Guayaquil (Ecuador). Materials and methods: Prospective, cross-sectional study carried out between January 1, 2009 and November 30, 2014 of 13,860 people who attended routine control tests. All were tested in serum parathyroid hormone (PTH), ionic calcium, serum creatinine and the 25 (OH) total vitamin D (total VD). The diagnosis of HPTP was confirmed if PTH or Ionic calcium levels remained high at least in two different occasions. We excluded patients with raised serum creatinine, vitamin D insufficiency, malabsorption, chronic liver disease, or those receiving treatments that alter phosphocalcic metabolism. Results: 61 cases were found with raised PTH on at least two different occasions. Among these, 34 presented vitamin D insufficiency and were excluded from the analysis. In 27 cases (4 men and 23 women) the diagnosis of HPTP was confirmed. The average age for women was 64.5±15.4 years and men of 71.3±12.8 years; average PTH values were 115±24.2 pg/ml; Ionic calcium, 5.15±0.4 mg/dl; total VD, 47.1±20.2 ng/ml; and serum creatinine 0.84±0.2 mg/ml; prevalence of HPTP corresponds to 2 cases per thousand adults (95% CI: 1.71-2.18). The greatest increase in prevalence occurred in women aged 60 years. Conclusion: PTH prevalence in this sample is low compared to that reported in international series, being higher in advanced ages and in women. With the proposed screening for PTH and ionic calcium, we detected the normocalcemic form of HPTP in most cases (AU)

Relación entre las complicaciones y la calidad de vida del paciente en hemodiálisis / Relationship between complications and the quality of life of the patient on hemodialysis

Introducción: Los pacientes con Enfermedad Renal Crónica (ERC) son tratados con terapias de diálisis. Dentro de este tipo de tratamiento se encuentran la Diálisis Peritoneal (DP) y Hemodiálisis (HD). Los pacientes sometidos a HD tienen una evolución imprevisible por las complicaciones del tratamiento y/o complicaciones propias de la ERC. Estas aumentan el número de hospitalizaciones y deterioran la calidad de vida (CV). Objetivos: Evaluar la calidad de vida de pacientes en hemodiálisis y determinar la asociación entre las complicaciones y la CV. Material y Método: Estudio transversal analítico en 157 pacientes en HD (75 hombres, 82 mujeres), mayores de 18 años y con más de 3 meses en tratamiento. La CV se evaluó con el instrumento KDQOL-36, el cual, mide 5 dimensiones en escala del 0 al 100. Se realizó un análisis bivariado, ANOVA y regresión múltiple para evaluar la relación de cada una de las dimensiones con edad, sexo, ocupación, estado civil, escolaridad, tipo de acceso venoso, tiempo con la ERC, con la HD y complicaciones de la ERC y la HD. Resultados: La edad promedio fue de 50.9 años. El 77% de los participantes presentaron complicaciones, 69.4% por HD, 5% por evolución de la ERC y 25.6% ambas complicaciones. En el análisis multivariado se encontró que la presencia de ambas complicaciones deteriora más la calidad de vida que las ocasionadas únicamente por el tratamiento de HD. Conclusión: Las complicaciones del tratamiento de hemodiálisis aunadas a las de la ERC deterioran en gran medida la calidad de vida del paciente (AU)

Introduction: Patients with Cronic Kidney Disease (CKD) are treated with dialysis therapies. Within this type of treatment are Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) and Hemodialysis (HD). Patients undergoing HD have unexpected turn for treatment complications and / or complications of CKD. These increase the number of hospitalizations and deteriorate the quality of life (QOL). Objective: Evaluate the Quality of Life of Patients on hemodialysis and determine the association between complications and QoL. Material and Method: Analytical cross-sectional study in 157 patients in HD (75 men, 82 women), aged 18 years and over 3 months treatment. QoL was assessed with the KDQOL-36 instrument, which, measuring 5 dimensions on a scale of 0 to 100. Was conducted of the bivariate analysis, ANOVA and and multiple regression to assess the ratio v Each Dimensions with Age, sex, occupancy, marital status, education, access type venous access time with the ERC, with HD and complications of CKD and HD. Results: Average age was 50.9 m years. 77% of participants had complications, 69.4% for HD, 5% Evolution of CKD and 25.6% Complications Both. In the multivariate analysis it was found that the presence of both complications deteriorates the complications caused only by the HD tratment. Conclusion: Hemodialysis tratment complication together with CKD complications greatly deteriorate patinents quality of (AU)

Aplicación clínica del test «Detenerse al andar mientras se habla» (Stop walking while talking test). Relación con parámetros funcionales y otras pruebas de marcha y equilibrio / Clinical application of the 'Stop walking while talking test'. Relationship with geriatric assessment parameters and other tests of balance and gait

Objetivo. Estudiar la relación entre el test Stop walking while talking (SWWT) y los parámetros de valoración geriátrica y otras pruebas de equilibrio y marcha. Pacientes y métodos. Estudio prospectivo, observacional y transversal de 108 pacientes (62% mujeres), edad media: 80,5±8,4. Veintitrés vivían en el domicilio, 24 en una residencia y 61 estaban ingresados en una unidad de convalecencia. Se registró: índice de Barthel, Mini-mental state examination of Folstein (MMSE), comorbilidad (Charlson), la presencia de caída previa y miedo a caer. Se les aplicó a todos ellos el test Timed up and go (TUG), el test de Tinetti y el test SWWT. Según el SWWT los pacientes se dividieron en 2 grupos: stoppers y non-stoppers. Todos tenían capacidad de deambulación (con o sin ayudas). Resultados. Los del grupo de stoppers presentaron medias de edad 82,2±8,7; Barthel 64,6±20,7; MMSE 21,6±5,1; Charlson 1,8±1,7 y los non-stoppers de 78,5±7,6 (p=0,024), 86,0±18,1 (p<0,001), 24,3±4,0 (p=0,004) y 1,3±1,6 (p=0,130), respectivamente. De los 58 stoppers 39 (67,2%) tuvieron caída previa y 19 (32,8%) no (p=0,002); 43 (74,1%) miedo a caer y 15 (25,9%) no (p<0,009). De los 63 pacientes con TUG>20seg, 52 (82,5%) eran stoppers y 11 (17,5%) non-stoppers; de los 31 con TUG entre 10-20seg, 5 (16,1%) y 26 (83,9%); de los 14 con TUG<10, uno (7,1%) y 13 (92,9%) (p<0,0001), respectivamente. La puntuación en el test de Tinetti fue 15,4±5,1 y 23,9±4,6 (p<0,001), respectivamente. Conclusiones. El grupo de stoppers presentaba mayor edad, dependencia, deterioro cognitivo, caída previa, miedo a caer, puntuaciones inferiores en el test de Tinetti y tiempos más prolongados en el TUG (AU)

Objective. To assess the relationship between the Stop Walking While Talking (SWWT) test and some parameters of the geriatric assessment, as well as other tests of balance and gait. Patients and methods. A prospective, observational and cross-sectional study conducted on 108 patients (62% women), with a mean age of 80.5±8.4 years. Twenty-three of them were living at home, 24 in a nursing home, and 61 in an intermediate care unit. A record was made of the Barthel index, Mini-Mental State Examination of Folstein (MMSE), comorbidity (Charlson index), the presence of previous falls, and fear of falling. Timed Up and Go (TUG), Tinetti test, and Stop Walking While Talking (SWWT) test, were performed on all the patients. Based on the results of the SWWT test patients were divided in two groups: "stoppers" and "non-stoppers". All patients were able to walk (with or without walking aids). Results. The stoppers group of patients had a mean age 82.2±8.7; Barthel index 64.6±20.7; MMSE 21.6±5.1; Charlson index 1.8±1.7, and the non-stoppers 78.5±7.6 (P=.024), 86.0±18.1 (P<.001), 24.3±4.0 (P=.004), and 1.3±1.6 (P=.130), respectively. Of the 58 stoppers patients, 39 (67.2%) had a previous fall, and 19 (32.8%) had not (P=.002); 43 (74.1%) had fear of falling, and 15 (25.9%) had not (P<0.009). Of the 63 patients with TUG>20seconds, 52 (82.5%) were stoppers and 11 (17.5%) non-stoppers. Of the 31 with TUG between 10-20seconds, 5 (16.1%) were stoppers and 26 (83.9%) non-stoppers. Of the 14 with TUG<10 seconds, 1 (7.1%) were stoppers, and 13 (92.9%) non-stoppers (P<0.0001). The score of Tinetti test in the stoppers group was 15.4±5.2, and in non-stoppers 23.9±4.6 (P<0.001). Conclusions. Those in the stopper group were significantly older, were more dependent in activities of daily living, had greater cognitive impairment, more previous falls, had greater fear of falling, lower scores on the Tinetti test, and longer times in the TUG (AU)

Comparison of conventional hamstring/quadriceps ratio between genders in level-matched soccer players / Comparación del ratio de fuerza convencional isquiotibial/cuádriceps entre jugadores de fútbol de niveles similares de ambos sexos / Comparação da relação de força convencional entre isquiotibiais/quadríceps entre jogadores de futebol com níveis semelhantes, de ambos os sexos

Objectives. The main goal of our study is to compare the hamstring/quadriceps (H/Q) ratio at different knee angles between level-matched male and female soccer players and to determine whether differences in the H/Q ratio exist between the dominant and the non-dominant leg. Methods. A cross-sectional study design was used to compare an isometric H/Q ratio and functional isokinetic ratio (between hamstring in eccentric contraction and quadriceps in concentric contraction) between males (n=14) and females (n=14). These ratios were studied at two different speeds of movement (60°s−1 and 180°s−1) and in five different positions (40°, 50°, 60°, 70° and 80° degrees of knee flexion). Results. Our results showed no differences in the H/Q ratio between genders. The ratio in the dominant leg showed an average of 9% higher values. The ratios were an average of 53.4% lower in positions near flexion than in positions near extension. Conclusions. For both men and women, the results showed lower ratios in the non-dominant leg compared to the dominant leg. At higher velocities, the force ratios were higher, while in more knee-flexed positions, the ratios were lower. Finally, we did not find differences in ratios between men and women (AU)

Objetivos. El objetivo principal del estudio es comparar el ratio de fuerza isquiotibial/cuádriceps (ratio H/Q) en diferentes ángulos de rodilla entre jugadores de fútbol de niveles similares y determinar si existen diferencias en dicho ratio entre la pierna dominante y la no dominante. Métodos. Se utilizó un diseño transversal para comparar el ratio isométrico H/Q y el ratio funcional isocinético (ratio entre la fuerza durante una contracción excéntrica de isquiotibial y la fuerza durante una contracción concéntrica de cuádriceps) entre hombres (n=14) y mujeres (n=14). Estos ratios se estudiaron en dos velocidades (60° s−1 y 180° s−1) y en 5 posiciones diferentes (40, 50, 60, 70 y 80 grados de flexión de rodilla). Resultados. Nuestros resultados no mostraron diferencias significativas en el ratio H/Q entre sexos. El ratio en la pierna dominante mostró valores un 9% más altos que en la pierna no dominante. Los ratios fueron de media un 53.4% más bajos en posiciones cercanas a la flexión que en posiciones cercanas a la extensión. Conclusiones. Para ambos sexos los resultados mostraron ratios más bajos en la pierna no dominante comparado con la pierna dominante. A velocidades superiores, los ratios de fuerza fueron mayores, mientras que en posiciones de mayor flexión de rodilla los ratios fueron menores. Por último, no se encontraron diferencias significativas en los ratios entre hombres y mujeres (AU)

Objetivos. O principal objetivo do nosso estudo é comparar a relação de força entre Isquiotibiais/Quadríceps (H/Q) em diferentes ângulos do joelho entre jogadores de futebol (masculino e feminino) de níveis semelhantes para determinar se existem diferenças na relação entre H/Q entre o membro dominante e a não-dominante. Método. U estudo de delineamento transversal foi utilizado para comparar a relação isométrica entre H/Q e isocinética funcional (razão entre a força dos isquiotibiais em contração excêntrica e do quadríceps em contração concêntrica, durante a extensão do joelho) entre homens (n=14) e mulheres (n=14). Estas razões foram estudadas em duas velocidades diferentes de movimento (60°/s e 180°/s) e em cinco posições diferentes (por exemplo 40, 50, 60, 70, e 80 graus de flexão do joelho). Resultados. Os resultados não mostraram diferenças significativas na relação H/Q entre os sexos. A relação da perna dominante mostrou valores médios de 9% mais elevados em relação a perna não dominante. As proporções foram, em média, 53,4% menor em posições próximas a flexão do que em posições perto da extensão. Conclusões. Para ambos os sexos, os resultados mostram razões mais baixas no membro não dominante em comparação com a dominante. À velocidade mais elevadas, as relações de força foram superiores, enquanto que em maiores flexões de joelho as relações foram menores. Finalmente, não foram encontradas diferenças significativas nas proporções entre homens e mulheres (AU)

Alteraciones del procesamiento preléxico en pacientes hispanohablantes con afasias sensoriales: evidencias neurolingüísticas / Prelexical processing alterations in hispanophone patients with sensitive aphasias: neurolinguistic evidences

La verificación empírica de modelos de conversión acústico-fonémica es una necesidad de la práctica de la neurolingüística en cualquier contexto para optimizar la explicación del patrón neurocognitivo de pacientes con alteraciones del procesamiento preléxico. Por tal razón, en esta investigación se caracterizan los procesos de conversión acústico-fonémica en pacientes hispanohablantes, con el objetivo de obtener y acumular evidencias empíricas que permitan verificar en esta población lingüística el modelo de procesamiento preléxico más aceptado actualmente. Para ello se realizó un estudio descriptivo-transversal, con la participación de 72 pacientes con afasia de comprensión pertenecientes a los Servicios de Logofoniatría de la ciudad de Santiago de Cuba, con edades de 20 a 65 años, y entre 60 y 180 días de recuperación del daño cerebral. Estos fueron sometidos al Test de discriminación fonológica, que es una adaptación local de la «Prueba de discriminación» del Test DIFO de Benedet y Cortés-del-Solar. Se obtuvo que las alteraciones del procesamiento de las características distintivas de los sonidos del habla se distinguen de las alteraciones de la integración perceptual de fonemas. En el primer caso, se registran fallos estables en la ejecución de tareas que implican el procesamiento de unos u otros rasgos distintivos de los sonidos consonánticos del habla, mientras se conserva el procesamiento de rasgos distintivos de los sonidos vocálicos, y viceversa. En el segundo caso, se observan fallos en el procesamiento, tanto de todos los rasgos distintivos de los sonidos consonánticos del habla, como de los rasgos distintivos de los sonidos vocálicos (AU)

The empirical verification of prelexical processing models is necessary for the neurolinguistic practices in any context for optimizing the explanations of neurocognitive model in aphasic patients with disorder in prelexical processing. For this reason, the present investigation shows the characterization of acoustic-phonemic conversion process in aphasic hispanophone patients. The study was executed with the purpose to accumulate and to obtain empirical evidences in this linguistic population, for the practical verification of the most accepted prelexical processing model. A descriptive-transversal study was conducted with the participation of 72 patients with sensitive aphasia, localized in the Phoniatry Services of Santiago de Cuba City, with ages between 20 and 65 years, and not more of 60 to 180 days of brain injury recovery period. The participants performed the Test de discriminación fonológica, that is a contextual adaptation of the task «Prueba de discriminación» of the Test DIFO of Benedet and Cortés-del-Solar. Results revealed that disorders in distinctive characteristics of speech sounds processing are different of phoneme perceptual integration disorders. In the first, affectation in the execution of tasks that implies the processing of some distinctive characteristics of consonant speech sounds was recorded, whereas the processing of other distinctive characteristics of vowel speech sounds are preserved. In the second affectation in the processing of all distinctive characteristics of speech sounds was observed (AU)

Actividad de la enfermera de reumatología en España / The activity of rheumatology nurses in Spain

Objetivo. Conocer y analizar la actividad de la enfermería de reumatología en nuestro medio. Material y métodos. Se realizó un estudio transversal en servicios de reumatología de todo el país. Se utilizaron encuestas dirigidas a enfermería que incluyeron variables sociodemográficas, de medios estructurales y de actividad realizada por enfermería. Cada actividad fue comparada en función del lugar de trabajo, disponibilidad de medios y exclusividad laboral. Resultados. Se analizaron 67 encuestas, de 57 hospitales y 17 comunidades autónomas. Participaron un 97% de mujeres con una edad y experiencia laboral media de 48,9 y 6 años, respectivamente. El 56% trabajaron en consultas externas, el 35% en hospitales de día y el 9% en hospitalización y atención primaria. En cuanto a los medios: el 59% tenía despacho, el 77,3% agenda telefónica y el 60% agenda propia. Respecto a las actividades, el mayor número de profesionales realizó: monitorización de biológicos el 90,9%, seguimiento de terapias el 89,4% y entrenamiento en la autoadministración el 89,4%. La actividad en colaboración más frecuente fueron las infiltraciones, el 51,5%. Las actividades en docencia fueron el 50% y las de investigación dentro del servicio o con estudios en el área de enfermería el 78,8 y 51,5% respectivamente. Trabajar en consultas externas respecto a hospital de día, disponer al menos de despacho propio y realizar la jornada laboral con exclusividad en reumatología mostró diferencias significativas en distintas actividades. Conclusiones. El número de actividades realizadas por estos profesionales demostró ser mayor cuando el trabajo se realizó en la consulta externa, con despacho propio y exclusividad en reumatología (AU)

Objective. Describe and analyze nursing activity in rheumatology. Material and methods. A cross-sectional study was performed in Spanish rheumatology departments. Results were based on surveys administered to rheumatology nurses. We included variables on socio-demographics, the setting and available resources, and the activities they carried out. Each activity was compared in terms of workplace, available resources and dedication exclusively to one field. Results. Sixty-seven surveys were collected from 57 hospitals in 17 Spanish autonomous communities. 97% of the nurses were women, with an average age of 48.9 years and an average nursing experience of 6 years. 56% of the professionals had gained their experience in outpatient clinics, 35% in day hospitals and 9% in inpatient and primary care. As for the availability of resources, 59% had their own office, 77.3% had a phone listing and 60% scheduled and conducted patient visits. Of the 19 activities included, those performed by the highest number of nurses were managing, monitoring and coordinating the use of biological drugs (90.9%), therapy monitoring (89.4%) and training patients in self-medication (89.4%). The activity in which nurses most frequently collaborated with physicians was the administration of local injections (51.5%). Other activities were teaching (50%) and research (78.8%) in their departments and studies in the nursing field (51.5%). Work in outpatient clinics versus day hospitals showed statistically significant differences for health education, nutrition, splinting and bandaging, and collaboration in ultrasound studies. Conclusion. These professionals performed a greater number of activities when they worked in outpatient clinics, had their own office and worked exclusively in rheumatology (AU)