Characterisation, symptom pattern and symptom clusters from a retrospective cohort of Long COVID patients in primary care in Catalonia.

BACKGROUND: Around 10% of people infected by SARS-COV-2 report symptoms that persist longer than 3 months. Little has been reported about sex differences in symptoms and clustering over time of non-hospitalised patients in primary care settings. METHODS: This is a descriptive study of a cohort of mainly non-hospitalized patients with a persistence of symptoms longer than 3 months from the clinical onset in co-creation with the Long Covid Catalan affected group using an online survey. Recruitment was from March 2020 to June 2021. Exclusion criteria were being admitted to an ICU, < 18 years of age and not living in Catalonia. We focused on 117 symptoms gathered in 18 groups and performed cluster analysis over the first 21 days of infection, at 22-60 days, and ≥ 3 months. RESULTS: We analysed responses of 905 participants (80.3% women). Median time between symptom onset and the questionnaire response date was 8.7 months. General symptoms (as fatigue) were the most prevalent with no differences by sex, age, or wave although its frequency decreased over time (from 91.8 to 78.3%). Dermatological (52.1% in women, 28.5% in men), olfactory (34.9% women, 20.9% men) and neurocognitive symptoms (70.1% women, 55.8% men) showed the greatest differences by sex. Cluster analysis showed five clusters with a predominance of Taste & smell (24.9%) and Multisystemic clusters (26.5%) at baseline and _Multisystemic (34.59%) and Heterogeneous (24.0%) at ≥3 months. The Multisystemic cluster was more prevalent in men. The Menstrual cluster was the most stable over time, while most transitions occurred from the Heterogeneous cluster to the Multisystemic cluster and from Taste & smell to Heterogeneous. CONCLUSIONS: General symptoms were the most prevalent in both sexes at three-time cut-off points. Major sex differences were observed in dermatological, olfactory and neurocognitive symptoms. The increase of the Heterogeneous cluster might suggest an adaptation to symptoms or a non-specific evolution of the condition which can hinder its detection at medical appointments. A carefully symptom collection and patients' participation in research may generate useful knowledge about Long Covid presentation in primary care settings.

Menstrual characteristics and associations with sociodemographic factors and self-rated health in Spain: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Evidence on how menstrual characteristics may differ based on socioeconomic factors and self-rated health is significantly scarce. The main aim of this study was to investigate the associations between menstrual characteristics, sociodemographic factors and self-rated health among women and people who menstruate (PWM) aged 18-55 in Spain. METHODS: This cross-sectional study includes data from an online survey collected in March-July 2021 across Spain. Descriptive statistical analyses and multivariate logistic regression models were performed. RESULTS: The analyses included a total of 19,358 women and PWM. Mean age at menarche was 12.4 (SD = 1.5). While 20.3% of our participants experienced a menstrual abundance over 80 ml, 64.1% reported having menstrual blood clots; 6.4% menstruated for longer than 7 days. 17.0% had menstrual cycles that were shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days. Reports of moderate (46.3%) and high (22.7%) intensity menstrual pain were common. 68.2% of our participants experienced premenstrual symptoms in all or most cycles. The odds for lighter menstrual flow, shorter bleeding days and menstrual cycles were higher as age increased, and amongst participants with less educational attainment. Caregivers presented higher odds for abundant menstrual flow and longer menstruations. Reporting financial constraints and a poorer self-rated health were risk factors for abundant menstrual flow, menstrual blood clots, shorter/longer menstruations and menstrual cycles, premenstrual symptoms, moderate and intense menstrual pain. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that age, educational attainment, caregiving, experiencing financial hardship and a poorer self-rated health may shape or mediate menstrual characteristics. It thus highlights the need to investigate and address social inequities of health in menstrual research.

Menstruation and social inequities in Spain: a cross-sectional online survey-based study.

BACKGROUND: Available research suggests that menstrual inequity has an impact on (menstrual) health outcomes and emotional wellbeing. It is also a significant barrier to achieve social and gender equity and compromises human rights and social justice. The aim of this study was to describe menstrual inequities and their associations with sociodemographic factors, among women and people who menstruate (PWM) aged 18-55 in Spain. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted in Spain between March and July 2021. Descriptive statistical analyses and multivariate logistic regression models were performed. RESULTS: A total of 22,823 women and PWM were included in the analyses (Mean age = 33.2, SD = 8.7). Over half of the participants had accessed healthcare services for menstruation (61.9%). The odds for accessing menstrual-related services were significantly higher among participants with university education (aOR: 1.48, 95% CI, 1.13-1.95). Also, 57.8% reported having had partial or no menstrual education pre-menarche, with odds being higher among participants born in non-European or Latin American countries (aOR: 0.58, 95% CI, 0.36-0.93). Lifetime self-reported menstrual poverty was between 22.2-39.9%. Main risk factors for menstrual poverty were identifying as non-binary (aOR: 1.67, 95% CI, 1.32-2.11), being born in non-European or Latin American countries (aOR: 2.74, 95% CI, 1.77-4.24), and not having a permit to reside in Spain (aOR: 4.27, 95% CI, 1.94-9.38). Completed university education (aOR: 0.61, 95% CI, 0.44-0.84) and no financial hardship < 12 months (aOR: 0.06, 95% CI, 0.06-0.07) were protective factors for menstrual poverty. Besides, 75.2% reported having overused menstrual products due to lack of access to adequate menstrual management facilities. Menstrual-related discrimination was reported by 44.5% of the participants. Non-binary participants (aOR: 1.88, 95% CI, 1.52-2.33) and those who did not have a permit to reside in Spain (aOR: 2.11, 95% CI, 1.10-4.03) had higher odds of reporting menstrual-related discrimination. Work and education absenteeism were reported by 20.3% and 62.7% of the participants, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Our study suggests that menstrual inequities affect a high number of women and PWM in Spain, especially those more socioeconomically deprived, vulnerabilised migrant populations and non-binary and trans menstruators. Findings from this study can be valuable to inform future research and menstrual inequity policies.

RESUMEN: INTRODUCCIóN: Investigación previa disponible indica que la inequidad menstrual tiene un impacto en los resultados de salud (menstrual) y en el bienestar emocional. Es también una barrera para la equidad social y de género. El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar la inequidad menstrual y las asociaciones con factores sociodemográficos, en mujeres y personas que menstrúan entre 18-55 años en España. MéTODOS: Este es un estudio transversal, basado en una encuesta, llevado a cabo en España entre marzo y julio de 2021. Se realizaron análisis descriptivos y modelos de regresión logística multivariados.  RESULTADOS: Los análisis se realizaron con los datos de 22,823 mujeres y personas que menstrúan. Más de la mitad de las participantes habían accedido a servicios sanitarios para la menstruación (60.5%). La probabilidad de acceder a servicios sanitarios para la menstruación fue significativamente más alta en participantes con educación universitaria (aOR: 1.48, 95% CI, 1.13-1.95). El 57.8% informó no haber tenido educación menstrual o que ésta fuera parcial, pre-menarquia; la probabilidad fue más alta en participantes que no habían nacido en países europeos o latinoamericanos (aOR: 0.58, 95% CI, 0.36-0.93). La pobreza menstrual durante el ciclo vital se reportó en el 22.2-39.9% de las participantes. Los principales factores de riesgo fueron identificarse como persona no binaria (aOR: 1.67, 95% CI, 1.32-2.11), nacer en países fuera de Europa o Latinoamérica (aOR: 2.74, 95% CI, 1.77-4.24), y no tener papeles para residir en España (aOR: 4.27, 95% CI, 1.94-9.38). Tener estudios universitarios (aOR: 0.61, 95% CI, 0.44-0.84) y no haber reportado problemas económicos en los últimos 12 meses (aOR: 0.06, 95% CI, 0.06-0.07) fueron factores protectores para la pobreza menstrual. Además, el 74.6% indicó haber sobreutilizado productos menstruales por no haber tenido acceso a espacios adecuados para el manejo menstrual. El 42.6% de las participantes comunicaron experiencias de discriminación menstrual. Participantes no binarios (aOR: 1.88, 95% CI, 1.52-2.33) y aquellas que no tenían papeles (aOR: 2.11, 95% CI, 1.10-4.03) presentaron una mayor probabilidad de indicar discriminación menstrual. El absentismo laboral y escolar fue indicado por el 18.3% y el 56.6% de las participantes respectivamente. CONCLUSIONES: Nuestro estudio sugiere que la inequidad menstrual afecta a un número significativo de mujeres y personas que menstrúan en España y, especialmente, a aquellas en situaciones de mayor deprivación socioeconómica, algunos colectivos vulnerabilizados de personas migradas, y a personas no binarias y trans que menstrúan. Los resultados de este estudio pueden ser útiles para investigación futura, así como para el desarrollo de políticas públicas de equidad menstrual.

Effectiveness of a multiple health-behaviour-change intervention in increasing adherence to the Mediterranean Diet in adults (EIRA study): a randomized controlled hybrid trial.

BACKGROUND: The present study describes the effectiveness of a complex intervention that addresses multiple lifestyles to promote healthy behaviours in increasing adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD).  METHODS: Cluster-randomised, hybrid clinical trial controlled with two parallel groups. The study was carried out in 26 primary Spanish healthcare centres. People aged 45-75 years who presented at least two of the following criteria were included: smoker, low adherence to the MD or insufficient level of physical activity. The intervention group (IG) had three different levels of action: individual, group, and community, with the aim of acting on the behaviours related to smoking, diet and physical activity at the same time. The individual intervention included personalised recommendations and agreements on the objectives to attain. Group sessions were adapted to the context of each healthcare centre. The community intervention was focused on the social prescription of resources and activities performed in the environment of the community of each healthcare centre. Control group (CG) received brief advice given in the usual visits to the doctor's office. The primary outcome was the change, after 12 months, in the number of participants in each group with good adherence to the MD pattern. Secondary outcomes included the change in the total score of the MD adherence score (MEDAS) and the change in some cardiovascular risk factors. RESULTS: Three thousand sixty-two participants were included (IG = 1,481, CG = 1,581). Low adherence to the MD was present in 1,384 (93.5%) participants, of whom 1,233 initiated the intervention and conducted at least one individual visit with a healthcare professional. A greater increase (13.7%; 95% CI, 9.9-17.5; p < 0.001) was obtained by IG in the number of participants who reached 9 points or more (good adherence) in the MEDAS at the final visit. Moreover, the effect attributable to the intervention obtained a greater increase (0.50 points; 95% CI, 0.35 to 0.66; p < 0.001) in IG. CONCLUSIONS: A complex intervention modelled and carried out by primary healthcare professionals, within a real clinical healthcare context, achieved a global increase in the adherence to the MD compared to the brief advice. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03136211. Retrospectively registered on 02/05/2017 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03136211.

Experiences of menstrual inequity and menstrual health among women and people who menstruate in the Barcelona area (Spain): a qualitative study.

INTRODUCTION: Menstrual health and menstrual inequity have been neglected in social, economic, healthcare and political spheres. Although available evidence is scarce, it already suggests a link between experiencing menstrual inequity (which refers to the systematic disparities in accessing menstrual health and education, menstrual products and spaces for menstrual management, among other aspects) and menstrual health outcomes. The aim of this study was to explore experiences of menstrual health and menstrual inequity among women and people who menstruate aged 18-55 in Barcelona and surrounding areas (Spain). METHODS: A qualitative study, using a critical feminist perspective, was conducted. Sampling was purposeful and selective. Recruitment was through sexual and reproductive health centres, social media and snowball sampling techniques. Thirty-four semi-structured photo-elicitation interviews were conducted between December 2020 and February 2021. Interviews took place in sexual and reproductive health centres, public spaces, and by telephone. Data were analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis. RESULTS: Three themes were identified: "Systemic neglect of menstruation and the menstrual cycle", "When "the private" becomes public: menstrual management" and "Navigating menstrual health: between medicalization and agency". Experiences of menstrual inequity appeared to be widespread among participants. They referred to the impact of having to conceal menstruation and the barriers to managing menstruation in public spaces. Choosing menstrual products was often influenced by price and availability; several participants reported menstrual poverty. A general lack of menstrual education was described. Menstrual education was usually gained through personal experience and self-learnings, or through families and friends. Menstruation and the menstrual cycle had a significant impact on participants' day-to-day. Accessing and navigating the healthcare system was challenging, as participants mostly reported feeling dismissed and almost exclusively offered hormonal contraception as a panacea to address menstrual health. CONCLUSIONS: The impact of menstrual inequity appears to be far-reaching. Multidimensional structural policies should promote agency in individuals and communities to enable opportunities for menstrual education, access to menstrual products, healthcare services and adequate menstrual-management facilities. Health professionals' training is also necessary to improve access to and quality of menstrual healthcare. Policies need to be inclusive of non-binary and trans people, and vulnerable populations.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of a multiple health behaviour change intervention in people aged between 45 and 75 years: a cluster randomized controlled trial in primary care (EIRA study).

BACKGROUND: Multiple health behaviour change (MHBC) interventions that promote healthy lifestyles may be an efficient approach in the prevention or treatment of chronic diseases in primary care. This study aims to evaluate the cost-utility and cost-effectiveness of the health promotion EIRA intervention in terms of MHBC and cardiovascular reduction. METHODS: An economic evaluation alongside a 12-month cluster-randomised (1:1) controlled trial conducted between 2017 and 2018 in 25 primary healthcare centres from seven Spanish regions. The study took societal and healthcare provider perspectives. Patients included were between 45 and 75 years old and had any two of these three behaviours: smoking, insufficient physical activity or low adherence to Mediterranean dietary pattern. Intervention duration was 12 months and combined three action levels (individual, group and community). MHBC, defined as a change in at least two health risk behaviours, and cardiovascular risk (expressed in % points) were the outcomes used to calculate incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER). Quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) were estimated and used to calculate incremental cost-utility ratios (ICUR). Missing data was imputed and bootstrapping with 1000 replications was used to handle uncertainty in the modelling results. RESULTS: The study included 3062 participants. Intervention costs were €295 higher than usual care costs. Five per-cent additional patients in the intervention group did a MHBC compared to usual care patients. Differences in QALYS or cardiovascular risk between-group were close to 0 (- 0.01 and 0.04 respectively). The ICER was €5598 per extra health behaviour change in one patient and €6926 per one-point reduction in cardiovascular risk from a societal perspective. The cost-utility analysis showed that the intervention increased costs and has no effect, in terms of QALYs, compared to usual care from a societal perspective. Cost-utility planes showed high uncertainty surrounding the ICUR. Sensitivity analysis showed results in line with the main analysis. CONCLUSION: The efficiency of EIRA intervention cannot be fully established and its recommendation should be conditioned by results on medium-long term effects. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03136211 . Registered 02 May 2017 - Retrospectively registered.

Medication-related problems in older people in Catalonia: A real-world data study.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to determine medication-related problems (MRPs) in primary care patients over 65 years of age. METHODS: Cross-sectional study based on the electronic health records of patients (65-99 years of age) visited in 284 primary health care centers during 2012 in Catalonia. VARIABLES: age, sex, sociodemographic variables, number of drugs, kidney and liver function and MRPs (duplicate therapy, drug-drug interactions, potentially inappropriate medications [PIMs] and drugs contraindicated in chronic kidney disease and in liver diseases). Unconditional logistic regression models were used to identify the factors associated with MRPs in patients with multimorbidity. RESULTS: 916 619 older people were included and 853 085 of them met the criteria for multimorbidity. Median age was 75 years and 57.7% of them were women. High percentages of MRPs were observed: PIMs (62.8%), contraindicated drugs in chronic kidney disease (12.1%), duplicate therapy (11.1%), contraindicated drugs in liver diseases (4.2%), and drug-drug interactions (1.0%). These numbers were higher in the subgroup of patients with ≥10 diseases. The most common PIMs were connected to drugs that increase the risk of fall (66.8%), antiulcer agents without criteria for gastroprotection (40.6%), and the combination of drugs with anticholinergic effects (39.7%). In the multivariate analysis, the variables associated with all MRPs among the patients with multimorbidity were the number of drugs and the number of visits. CONCLUSIONS: The coexistence of multimorbidity and polypharmacy is associated with an elevated risk of MRPs in older people. Medication safety for older patients constitutes a pressing concern for health services.

Multiple health behaviour change primary care intervention for smoking cessation, physical activity and healthy diet in adults 45 to 75 years old (EIRA study): a hybrid effectiveness-implementation cluster randomised trial.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a) a Multiple Health Behaviour Change (MHBC) intervention on reducing smoking, increasing physical activity and adherence to a Mediterranean dietary pattern in people aged 45-75 years compared to usual care; and b) an implementation strategy. METHODS: A cluster randomised effectiveness-implementation hybrid trial-type 2 with two parallel groups was conducted in 25 Spanish Primary Health Care (PHC) centres (3062 participants): 12 centres (1481 participants) were randomised to the intervention and 13 (1581 participants) to the control group (usual care). The intervention was based on the Transtheoretical Model and focused on all target behaviours using individual, group and community approaches. PHC professionals made it during routine care. The implementation strategy was based on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Data were analysed using generalised linear mixed models, accounting for clustering. A mixed-methods data analysis was used to evaluate implementation outcomes (adoption, acceptability, appropriateness, feasibility and fidelity) and determinants of implementation success. RESULTS: 14.5% of participants in the intervention group and 8.9% in the usual care group showed a positive change in two or all the target behaviours. Intervention was more effective in promoting dietary behaviour change (31.9% vs 21.4%). The overall adoption rate by professionals was 48.7%. Early and final appropriateness were perceived by professionals as moderate. Early acceptability was high, whereas final acceptability was only moderate. Initial and final acceptability as perceived by the participants was high, and appropriateness moderate. Consent and recruitment rates were 82.0% and 65.5%, respectively, intervention uptake was 89.5% and completion rate 74.7%. The global value of the percentage of approaches with fidelity ≥50% was 16.7%. Eight CFIR constructs distinguished between high and low implementation, five corresponding to the Inner Setting domain. CONCLUSIONS: Compared to usual care, the EIRA intervention was more effective in promoting MHBC and dietary behaviour change. Implementation outcomes were satisfactory except for the fidelity to the planned intervention, which was low. The organisational and structural contexts of the centres proved to be significant determinants of implementation effectiveness. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov , NCT03136211 . Registered 2 May 2017, "retrospectively registered".

Controlled trial of balance training using a video game console in community-dwelling older adults.

BACKGROUND: gamification is a potentially attractive option for improving balance and reducing falls. OBJECTIVES: to assess the effect of balance training using the NintendoTM Wii game console on balance (primary outcome), falls and fear of falling. DESIGN: quasi-randomised, open-label, controlled clinical trial in parallel groups, carried out on community-dwelling patients over 70 years, able to walk independently. Participants were assigned 1:1 to the intervention or control group. Balance training was conducted using the Nintendo WiiFitTM twice a week for 3 months. Balance was assessed using the Tinetti balance test (primary outcome), the unipedal stance and the Wii balance tests at baseline, 3 months and 1 year. Falls were recorded and Fear of falling was assessed by the Falls Efficacy Scale (Short-FES-I). RESULTS: 1,016 subjects were recruited (508 in both the intervention and the control group; of whom 274 and 356 respectively completed the 3-month assessment). There was no between-group difference in the Tinetti balance test score, with a baseline mean of 14.7 (SD 1.8) in both groups, and 15.2 (1.3) at 3 months in the intervention group compared to 15.3 (1.7) in controls; the between-group difference was 0.06 (95% CI 0.30-0.41). No differences were seen in any of the other balance tests, or in incident falls. There was a reduction in the fear of falling at 3 months, but no effect at 1 year. CONCLUSIONS: the study found no effect of balance training using the NintendoTM Wii on balance or falls in older community-dwelling patients.The study protocol is available at clinicaltrials.gov under the code NCT02570178.

Effectiveness of a multidisciplinary BIOPSYCHOSOCIAL intervention for non-specific SUBACUTE low back pain in a working population: a cluster randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Low back pain (LBP) is a multifactorial condition with individual and societal impact that affects populations globally. Current guidelines for the treatment of LBP recommend pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies. The aim of this study was to compare usual clinical practice with the effectiveness of a biopsychosocial multidisciplinary intervention in reducing disability, severity of pain and improving quality of life in a working population of patients with subacute (2-12 weeks), non-specific LBP. METHODS: Longitudinal cluster randomized clinical trial conducted in 39 Primary Health Care Centres (PHCC) of Barcelona, with patients aged 18-65 years (n = 501; control group = 239; 26 PHCC, intervention group = 262; 13 PHCC). The control group received usual clinical care. The intervention group received usual clinical care plus a biopsychosocial multidisciplinary intervention, which consisted of physiotherapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy and medication. The main outcomes were changes in the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), and the minimal clinically important differences. Secondary outcomes were changes in the McGill Pain (MGPQ) and Quality of Life (SF-12) questionnaires. Assessment was conducted at baseline, 3 and 12 months. Analysis was by intention-to-treat and analyst-blinded. Multiple imputations were used. RESULTS: Of the 501 enrolled patients, 421 (84%) provided data at 3 months, and 387 (77.2%) at 12 months. Mean age was 46.8 years (SD: 11.5) and 64.7% were women. In the adjusted analysis of the RMDQ outcome, only the intervention group showed significant changes at 3 months (- 1.33 points, p = 0.005) and at 12 months (- 1.11 points, p = 0.027), but minimal clinically important difference were detected in both groups. In the adjusted analysis of the RMDQ outcome, the intervention group improvement more than the control group at 3 months (- 1.33 points, p = 0.005) and at 12 months (- 1.11 points, p = 0.027). The intervention group presented a significant difference. Both groups presented a minimal clinically important difference, but more difference in the intervention group. The intervention group presented significant differences in the MGPQ scales of current pain intensity and VAS scores at 3 months. No statistically significant differences were found in the physical and mental domains of the SF-12. CONCLUSIONS: A multidisciplinary biopsychosocial intervention in a working population with non-specific subacute LBP has a small positive impact on disability, and on the level of pain, mainly at short-term, but no difference on quality of life. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ISRCTN21392091 (17 oct 2018) (Prospectively registred).

Medication patterns in older adults with multimorbidity: a cluster analysis of primary care patients.

BACKGROUND: Older adults suffer from various chronic conditions which make them particularly vulnerable. The proper management of multiple drug use is therefore crucial. The aim of our study was to describe drug prescription and medication patterns in this population. METHODS: A cross-sectional study in Barcelona (Spain) using electronic health records from 50 primary healthcare centres. Participants were aged 65 to 94 years, presenting multimorbidity (≥2 chronic diseases), and had been prescribed at least 1 drug for 6 months or longer during 2009. We calculated the prevalence of prescribed drugs and identified medication patterns using multiple correspondence analysis and k-means clustering. Analyses were stratified by sex and age (65-79, 80-94 years). RESULTS: We studied 164,513 patients (66.8% women) prescribed a median of 4 drugs (interquartile range [IQR] = 3-7) in the 65-79 age-group and 6 drugs (IQR = 4-8) in the 80-94 age-group. A minimum of 45.9% of patients aged 65-79 years, and 61.8% of those aged 80-94 years, were prescribed 5 or more drugs. We identified 6 medication patterns, a non-specific one and 5 encompassing 8 anatomical groups (alimentary tract and metabolism, blood, cardiovascular, dermatological, musculo-skeletal, neurological, respiratory, and sensory organ). CONCLUSIONS: Drug prescription is widespread among the elderly. Six medication patterns were identified, 5 of which were related to one or more anatomical group, with associations among drugs from different systems. Overall, guidelines do not accurately reflect the situation of the elderly multimorbid, new strategies for managing multiple drug uses are needed to optimize prescribing in these patients.

Multimorbidity patterns in the elderly: a prospective cohort study with cluster analysis.

BACKGROUND: Multimorbidity is the coexistence of more than two chronic diseases in the same individual; however, there is no consensus about the best definition. In addition, few studies have described the variability of multimorbidity patterns over time. The aim of this study was to identify multimorbidity patterns and their variability over a 6-year period in patients older than 65 years attended in primary health care. METHODS: A cohort study with yearly cross-sectional analysis of electronic health records from 50 primary health care centres in Barcelona. Selected patients had multimorbidity and were 65 years of age or older in 2009. Diagnoses (International Classification of Primary Care, second edition) were extracted using O'Halloran criteria for chronic diseases. Multimorbidity patterns were identified using two steps: 1) multiple correspondence analysis and 2) k-means clustering. Analysis was stratified by sex and age group (65-79 and ≥80 years) at the beginning of the study period. RESULTS: Analysis of 2009 electronic health records from 190,108 patients with multimorbidity (59.8% women) found a mean age of 71.8 for the 65-79 age group and 84.16 years for those over 80 (Standard Deviation [SD] 4.35 and 3.46, respectively); the median number of chronic diseases was seven (Interquartil range [IQR] 5-10). We obtained 6 clusters of multimorbidity patterns (1 nonspecific and 5 specifics) in each group, being the specific ones: Musculoskeletal, Endocrine-metabolic, Digestive/Digestive-respiratory, Neurological, and Cardiovascular patterns. A minimum of 42.5% of the sample remained in the same pattern at the end of the study, reflecting the stability of these patterns. CONCLUSIONS: This study identified six multimorbidity patterns per each group, one nonnspecific pattern and five of them with a specific pattern related to an organic system. The multimorbidity patterns obtained had similar characteristics throughout the study period. These data are useful to improve clinical management of each specific subgroup of patients showing a particular multimorbidity pattern.

Complex multiple risk intervention to promote healthy behaviours in people between 45 to 75 years attended in primary health care (EIRA study): study protocol for a hybrid trial.

BACKGROUND: Health promotion is a key process of current health systems. Primary Health Care (PHC) is the ideal setting for health promotion but multifaceted barriers make its integration difficult in the usual care. The majority of the adult population engages two or more risk behaviours, that is why a multiple intervention might be more effective and efficient. The primary objectives are to evaluate the effectiveness, the cost-effectiveness and an implementation strategy of a complex multiple risk intervention to promote healthy behaviours in people between 45 to 75 years attended in PHC. METHODS: This study is a cluster randomised controlled hybrid type 2 trial with two parallel groups comparing a complex multiple risk behaviour intervention with usual care. It will be carried out in 26 PHC centres in Spain. The study focuses on people between 45 and 75 years who carry out two or more of the following unhealthy behaviours: tobacco use, low adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern or insufficient physical activity level. The intervention is based on the Transtheoretical Model and it will be made by physicians and nurses in the routine care of PHC practices according to the conceptual framework of the "5A's". It will have a maximum duration of 12 months and it will be carried out to three different levels (individual, group and community). Incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year gained measured by the tariffs of the EuroQol-5D questionnaire will be estimated. The implementation strategy is based on the "Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research", a set of discrete implementation strategies and an evaluation framework. DISCUSSION: EIRA study will determine the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a complex multiple risk intervention and will provide a better understanding of implementation processes of health promotion interventions in PHC setting. It may contribute to increase knowledge about the individual and structural barriers that affect implementation of these interventions and to quantify the contextual factors that moderate the effectiveness of implementation. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov , NCT03136211 .Retrospectively registered on May 2, 2017.

Correction to: Complex multiple risk intervention to promote healthy behaviours in people between 45 to 75 years attended in primary health care (EIRA study): study protocol for a hybrid trial.

It has been highlighted the original article (1) contained a typesetting mistake in the authorship, and that author Caterine Vicens was omitted.

A qualitative exploration of Gestalt therapy and systemic pedagogy paediatric primary healthcare consultations in Agramunt (Spain).

INTRODUCTION: Gestalt therapy (GT) and systemic pedagogy (SP) are useful tools to approach emotional difficulties and mental health problems among children and adolescents. The main objective of this study was to explore the perceptions on GT and SP techniques in paediatric mental health-related consultations in a primary healthcare (PHC) centre in Catalonia in 2018-2019, among families, healthcare, and education professionals. METHODS: Qualitative study, combining semi-structured interviews with families (N = 42) and professionals (N = 15), conducted after a series paediatric PHC consultations including GT and SP techniques. Interviews lasted between 15 and 90 min and were conducted at the PHC centre where GT/SP consultations took place, and at professionals' workplaces. Socio-demographics, reasons for consultation, and quantitative ratings on the perceived effectiveness of GT/SP consultations were also collected to combine these data with the qualitative interviews. Qualitative data were analyzed descriptively using thematic analysis. Quantitative data were analyzed by calculating frequencies (percentages) for categorical variables, and means, medians, and ranges for continuous variables. RESULTS: Narratives from families and healthcare professionals indicate that GT/SP consultations might have been effective in improving children and adolescents' symptomatology and emotional health. Improved well-being within the family context was another main finding, based on families' perceptions and experiences. Besides, GT/SP were considered acceptable for approaching emotional and mental health in PHC services, although barriers for implementation were identified. CONCLUSIONS: This study presents data on the potential usefulness of GT/SP to design and implement services that promote emotional and mental health among children and adolescents in PHC. Also, for the development of health policies and future research in this area.

Exploring the association between metabolic syndrome, its components and subsequent cancer incidence: A cohort study in Catalonia.

BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome (MS) has emerged as a significant global health concern. The relationship between MS and the risk of cancer doesn't seem clear, whether examining by components or in combination. The objective of this study is to examine the relationship between MS, its components, and the overall risk of cancer, including the risk of 13 specific cancer types. METHODS: We included 3,918,781 individuals aged 40 years or older sourced from the SIDIAP database between 2008 and 2017. Cox models were employed with MS components and their combinations. A subsample was created using a matched cohort (by age and sex). Incidence curves were computed to determine the time elapsed between the date of having 1-5 MS components and cancer incidence, compared to matched participants with no MS components, which showed that individuals who had one MS component experienced a greater incidence of cancer over 5 and 10 years than individuals with no MS, and the incidence rose with an increase in the number of MS components. RESULTS: Individuals exposed to MS components were diagnosed with cancer earlier than those who were not exposed to them. In the Cox model, HDL (HR 1.46, 95% CI: 1.41-1.52) and Glycemia (HR 1.40, 95% CI: 1.37-1.44) were the individual combinations with the highest risk of overall cancer. In combinations with two components, the highest HR was HDL+Glycemia (HR 1.52, 95% CI: 1.45-1.59) and Glycemia+HBP (HR 1.48, 95% CI: 1.45-1.50). In combinations with three components, the highest HR was HDL+Glycemia+HBP (HR 1.58, 95% CI: 1.55-1.62). CONCLUSION: In summary, having one or more MS components raises the risk of developing at least 11 cancer types and these risk differ according to type of component included. Some sex differences are also observed. Our findings suggest that implementing prevention measures aimed at specific MS components may lower the risk of various cancer types.

[Menstrual experiences and acceptability of a menstrual equity intervention among adolescents in Catalonia (Spain)]. / Experiencias menstruales y aceptabilidad de una intervención sobre equidad menstrual en adolescentes en Cataluña.

OBJECTIVE: To explore menstrual knowledge, menstrual management, the use of menstrual products, the prevalence of menstrual poverty and to assess the acceptability of a menstrual equity intervention among students in the fourth grade of compulsory secondary education in Catalonia (Spain). METHOD: Post-intervention mixed-methods study (cross-sectional study and qualitative study with focus groups) with a critical and gender perspective. It was conducted between July 2022 and March 2023. Descriptive and bivariate statistical analyses stratified by gender were carried out. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS: Women and people who menstruate rated the intervention favourably, while some men were reluctant. The intervention promoted the use of some reusable menstrual products, although some barriers to use menstrual cups were identified. Participants reported institutional barriers to menstrual management in the school setting and 19.4% stopped attending school during menstruation in the 6 months prior to the study. Between 10.9-16.4% reported menstrual poverty in the 6 months prior to the study, and 29,0% took actions to reduce the environmental impact of menstrual products. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the need for co-designing menstrual interventions that consider gender dynamics and sexist attitudes with students, as well as targeting it to teachers. The provision of reusable menstrual products can be helpful in promoting their use, although accompaniment should be provided. In parallel, it is crucial to strengthen menstrual education, as well as to reduce menstrual poverty and school absenteeism during menstruation.

Examining the influence of mental health and structural determinants of health on the stage of motivational readiness for health behaviour changes: A path analysis study.

This study explores the influence of mental health and structural determinants of health on motivational readiness for health behaviour change in 1462 Spanish primary healthcare users. Chi-square test and structural equation modelling were performed. Results showed that depression and anxiety were negatively associated with being in the action stages of motivational readiness for a healthy diet and physical activity. This association was statistically significant only for motivational readiness for a healthy diet and depression (ß=-0.076;p=0.046). Furthermore, women and workers were more likely to be in the action stages of motivational readiness for a healthy diet while older adults and adults with higher health-related quality of life were more likely to be in the action stages of motivational readiness for physical activity. The present study suggests that structural (being older, being a woman and being employed) and intermediary (suffering from depression and higher health-related quality of life) determinants of health influence motivational readiness for health behaviour changes.

Spanish residents' experiences of care during the first wave of the COVID-19 syndemic: a photo-elicitation study.

PURPOSE: The main aim of this research was to explore experiences of care during the lockdown of the first wave of COVID-19 syndemic in Spain. METHODS: This is a qualitative and explorative study using self-photo-elicitation as a data collection method. Fifteen participants (Twelve women and three men) shared 25 photographs and one video between the June 18 and August, 2020. Participants' photographs and texts were collected online. Data were analysed based on Thematic Analysis. RESULTS: Three emerging categories were constructed: 1) the deconstruction of care: self-care and collective care 2) the crisis of care and gendered care, 2) beyond anthropocentrism: animalism and ecology. Findings indicate the need to understand "care" in terms of social reproduction, including self-care, care towards other humans and non-human animals, and collective care. Also, the need to care for planetary health and to be in contact with nature as a form of self-care and social care. CONCLUSIONS: Care in a period of social and health crisis puts human relationships and also non-human life at the centre. Care requires adopting taking an ecological one-health perspective.

[Narratives on changes in health-related behaviours during lockdown in Spain according to gender]. / Narrativas sobre cambios de conductas en salud durante el confinamiento en España según género.

OBJECTIVE: To explore experiences related to health-oriented behaviours during lockdown in the Spanish resident population from a gender perspective. METHOD: Qualitative research with a critical and feminist approach. Twenty-nine semi-structured interviews (17 women and 12 men) were conducted between June and July 2020 via telephone with people who had previously answered an online survey. The interviews were transcribed and a thematic content analysis was carried out, differentiating between the experiences of women and men. The data were triangulated by the research team. RESULTS: Among women, greater diversity emerged in terms of health behaviours. Among them, the difficult experiences related to COVID-19, the complexity of living together and doing unpaid care work, as well as the importance of support networks, stood out. Among men, there were different attitudes towards sport, self-care and having time for healthy eating were positively valued, and there was a good assessment of coexistence and organisation in household chores. In both men and women, work overload and economic problems were related to emotional distress and difficulties in carrying out healthy activities. CONCLUSIONS: Health-oriented behaviours during lockdown differed according to gender. They were mostly limited to COVID-19 experiences, socio-economic conditions and burden of care. It is essential to tailor public health and primary care programmes according to people's life moments, taking into account their social context and questioning traditional gender roles.