Effects of face mask on pulse rate and blood oxygenation

ABSTRACT Objective The World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend the use of face masks in public. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of face masks on pulse rate and partial blood oxygen saturation in patients without cardiorespiratory disorders. Methods A total of 150 volunteers of both sexes were divided into three groups (n=50) according to age (children, young adults, and older adults). The partial blood oxygen saturation and pulse rate were measured for each volunteer using a digital oximeter while wearing a facial mask and remaining at rest. The masks were removed for two minutes, and partial blood oxygen saturation and pulse rate were remeasured. The materials and types of masks used were recorded. The t -test for paired samples was used to compare the mean values obtained before and after removing the masks. Results The most frequently used mask was a two-layered cloth (64.7%). A decrease in pulse rate was observed after removing the face mask in males, particularly in children (p=0.006) and young adults (p=0.034). Partial blood oxygen saturation levels increased in young adult males after mask removal (p=0.01). Conclusion The two-layer cotton tissue face masks are associated with a higher pulse rate and reduced arterial blood oxygen saturation without associated clinical disorders, mainly in adult men with a lower tolerance to breathing and ear discomfort.

Alcohol consumption by medical students

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE Excessive alcohol consumption is a global health issue. This article aims to evaluate the consumption of alcohol by medical students in relation to their personal and social aspects. METHODS This study was conducted with students in the first, third, and sixth year of medical school at the Federal University of Minas Gerais in 2019. Students were invited to participate anonymously by responding to a questionnaire with 15 questions regarding student characteristics (gender, age, family income, physical activity, origin, housing condition, and academic performance) and alcohol consumption (onset, reason, occasions of use, type of drink, amount consumed). Data were compared with significance corresponding to p<0.05. RESULTS A sample of 382 students of both sexes responded to the questionnaire. Alcohol consumption was reported by 85% of students. About 70% of first and third-year students and 47% of those of the sixth year were motivated by socializing with peers. Alcohol consumption was prevalent among those who practice physical activities (93%) and live with their families (89%). Around 80% had consumed alcohol before starting medical school, and consumption was more frequent in males. CONCLUSIONS Alcohol consumption begins during high school, stimulated by socialization. Men who practice physical activities and live with their families are the largest consumers.

RESUMO OBJETIVO O consumo excessivo de álcool é um problema de saúde presente no mundo inteiro. Este artigo avalia o consumo de bebidas alcoólicas por estudantes de Medicina e sua relação com características pessoais e aspectos sociais. MÉTODOS Estudo realizado com estudantes dos 1o, 3o e 6o anos do curso de medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais no ano de 2019. Os alunos foram convidados a participar anonimamente, respondendo a um questionário com 15 perguntas relativas a características do estudante (sexo, idade, renda familiar, prática de atividades físicas, origem, condição de moradia e desempenho discente) e ao consumo de bebidas alcoólicas (início, motivo, ocasiões de uso, tipo de bebida, quantidade consumida). Os dados foram comparados com significância correspondente a p<0,05. RESULTADOS Um total de 382 estudantes de ambos os sexos respondeu ao questionário. O consumo de bebidas alcoólicas foi relatado por 85% dos entrevistados. Cerca de 70% dos alunos de 1o e 3o anos e 47% dos alunos do 6o ano foram motivados pela socialização com colegas. O consumo de bebida alcoólica foi prevalente entre os que praticavam atividades físicas (93%) e moravam com a família (89%). Ao redor de 80% consumiram bebidas alcoólicas antes do ingresso na faculdade, com maior frequência no sexo masculino. CONCLUSÕES O consumo de álcool começa durante o ensino médio, estimulado pela socialização. Os homens que praticam atividades físicas e moram com a família são os maiores consumidores.