Prevalência de uso de álcool na gestação, Brasil, 2011-2012 / Prevalencia del consumo de alcohol durante el embarazo en Brasil, 2011-2012 / Prevalence of alcohol use during pregnancy, Brazil, 2011-2012

Resumo: Estudo transversal, de base hospitalar, nacional, com entrevista de 23.894 puérperas, em 2011-2012, com os objetivos de estimar a prevalência de consumo de álcool na gestação e identificar grupos mais vulneráveis. O uso de álcool na gestação foi identificado por meio da escala TWEAK, sendo classificadas como "diagnóstico presumível de uso inadequado de álcool" mulheres com pontuação ≥ 2. Calculou-se a prevalência nacional de uso de álcool e em subgrupos de acordo com características maternas, com respectivos intervalos de 95% de confiança (IC95%). Foram encontradas, de forma gráfica, coexistência de tabagismo, inadequação de consultas pré-natais e ingestão de bebidas alcoólicas na gestação. A prevalência de uso de álcool foi de 14% (IC95%: 13,3-14,7), com 10% (IC95%: 9,3-10,6) das mulheres apresentando diagnóstico presumível de uso inadequado de álcool na gestação. Maiores prevalências de uso de álcool e de diagnóstico presumível de uso inadequado foram observadas em mulheres pretas, com 12-19 anos de idade, com menor índice de escolaridade, de classe econômica mais baixa, sem companheiro, sem trabalho remunerado, com mais de três partos anteriores, que não queriam engravidar, com assistência pré-natal inadequada, com parto em serviços públicos e que referiram tabagismo na gestação. Estima-se que 1,2% das mulheres entrevistadas apresentavam concomitância dos três fatores de risco para desfechos perinatais negativos: fumo, álcool e assistência pré-natal inadequada. Os resultados demonstraram alta prevalência de uso de álcool na gestação e de diagnóstico presumível de uso inadequado, principalmente por mulheres em situação de vulnerabilidade social. São relevantes a elaboração de políticas públicas que contemplem ações de prevenção do uso de bebidas alcoólicas e a prestação de serviços de apoio para cessação do uso de álcool na gravidez.

Resumen: Estudio transversal, de base hospitalaria, nacional, con entrevistas a 23.894 puérperas, en 2011-2012, con el objetivo de estimar la prevalencia de consumo de alcohol durante el embarazo e identificar grupos más vulnerables. El consumo de alcohol durante el embarazo se identificó mediante la escala TWEAK, y las mujeres con puntuación ≥ 2 fueron clasificadas como "diagnóstico presumible de uso inadecuado de alcohol¨. Se calculó la prevalencia nacional de consumo de alcohol y subgrupos según características maternas, con sus respectivos intervalos de 95% de confianza (IC95%). Se identificó gráficamente la coexistencia de tabaquismo, consultas prenatales inadecuadas y consumo de alcohol durante el embarazo. La prevalencia de consumo de alcohol fue del 14% (IC95%: 13,3-14,7), siendo el 10% (IC95%: 9,3-10,6) de mujeres con diagnóstico presumible de uso inadecuado durante el embarazo. Se observaron mayores prevalencias de consumo de alcohol y diagnóstico presumible de uso inadecuado en mujeres de color/raza negra, de 12-19 años, con menos años de escolaridad, de clase económica más baja, sin pareja, sin trabajo remunerado, con más de tres partos previos, que no querían quedar embarazadas, con control prenatal inadecuado, con parto en el sistema público de salud y que relataron fumar durante el embarazo. Se estima que el 1,2% de las mujeres entrevistadas presentaron la concomitancia de tres factores de riesgo en resultados perinatales negativos: tabaquismo, alcohol y atención prenatal inadecuada. Los resultados demuestran una alta prevalencia de consumo de alcohol durante el embarazo y de diagnóstico presumible de uso inadecuado, especialmente en mujeres con las peores condiciones sociales, siendo relevante para la elaboración de políticas públicas que incluyan acciones de prevención del consumo de alcohol y servicios de apoyo para el cese del consumo de alcohol en el embarazo.

Abstract: This is a national cross-sectional, hospital-based study, which interviewed 23,894 postpartum women in 2011-2012 aiming to estimate the prevalence of alcohol use during pregnancy and identifying more vulnerable groups. Alcohol use during pregnancy was identified using the TWEAK scale, and women with a score of ≥ 2 were classified as having a "presumable diagnosis of inadequate alcohol use". The national prevalence of alcohol use and the prevalence in subgroups were calculated according to maternal characteristics, with respective 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). Coexistence of smoking, inadequate prenatal consultations, and alcohol use during pregnancy were graphically identified. The prevalence of alcohol use was 14% (95%CI: 13.3-14.7), with 10% (95%CI: 9.3-10.6) of women presenting presumable diagnosis of inadequate alcohol us during pregnancy. Higher prevalence of alcohol use and presumable diagnosis of inadequate alcohol us was observed in black women, aged 12-19 years, with lower educational level, from a lower economic class, without a partner, without paid work, with more than three previous births, who did not want to get pregnant, with inadequate prenatal care, with previous delivery in public services, and who reported smoking during pregnancy. Among the interviewees, 1.2% presented all three risk factors for negative perinatal outcomes at the same time: smoking, alcohol use, and inadequate prenatal care. The results showed a high prevalence of alcohol use during pregnancy and presumable diagnosis of inadequate alcohol us, especially among women with worse social conditions. These data are relevant for the formulation of public policies to prevent alcohol use and provide support services to help this population stop alcohol use during pregnancy.

Underage drinking in Brazil: findings from a community household survey

Objectives: Previous studies have estimated the 30-day prevalence of alcohol use to be approximately 21% among youth in Brazil, despite the legal drinking age of 18 years. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of underage drinking and its associated factors among adolescents in Brazil. Methods: The 3rd National Survey on Drug Use by the Brazilian Population (III Levantamento Nacional sobre o Uso de Drogas pela População Brasileira) is a nationwide, multi-stage, probability-sample household survey. Herein, youth between the ages of 12-17 years were included. Lifetime and 12-month alcohol use prevalence were estimated. Factors associated with 12-month alcohol use were evaluated through multivariate analysis considering survey weights and design. Results: Overall, 628 youth were interviewed. Estimated lifetime and 12-month alcohol use were 34.3% (standard error [SE] = 1.9) and 22.2% (SE = 1.7), respectively. Factors associated with 12-month drinking were: other/no religion vs. Christianity; living in rural vs. urban areas; self-reported diagnosis of depression vs. no self-reported depression; lifetime tobacco use vs. no history of tobacco use; and any illicit drug use vs. no history of illicit drug use. Conclusion: Considering that alcohol use is a major risk factor for early death among Brazilian youth, our findings highlight the importance of preventative measures to reduce underage drinking.

Lifestyle predictors of depression and anxiety during COVID-19: a machine learning approach

Abstract Introduction Recent research has suggested an increase in the global prevalence of psychiatric symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to assess whether lifestyle behaviors can predict the presence of depression and anxiety in the Brazilian general population, using a model developed in Spain. Methods A web survey was conducted during April-May 2020, which included the Short Multidimensional Inventory Lifestyle Evaluation (SMILE) scale, assessing lifestyle behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Depression and anxiety were examined using the PHQ-2 and the GAD-7, respectively. Elastic net, random forest, and gradient tree boosting were used to develop predictive models. Each technique used a subset of the Spanish sample to train the models, which were then tested internally (vs. the remainder of the Spanish sample) and externally (vs. the full Brazilian sample), evaluating their effectiveness. Results The study sample included 22,562 individuals (19,069 from Brazil, and 3,493 from Spain). The models developed performed similarly and were equally effective in predicting depression and anxiety in both tests, with internal test AUC-ROC values of 0.85 (depression) and 0.86 (anxiety), and external test AUC-ROC values of 0.85 (depression) and 0.84 (anxiety). Meaning of life was the strongest predictor of depression, while sleep quality was the strongest predictor of anxiety during the COVID-19 epidemic. Conclusions Specific lifestyle behaviors during the early COVID-19 epidemic successfully predicted the presence of depression and anxiety in a large Brazilian sample using machine learning models developed on a Spanish sample. Targeted interventions focused on promoting healthier lifestyles are encouraged.

Would the Brazilian population support the alcohol policies recommended by the World Health Organization?

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To evaluate the support of the Brazilian population to the alcohol-policies proposed by the World Health Organization to decrease alcohol harm (specifically: to decrease alcohol availability and advertising, and to increase pricing). In addition, we evaluated the factors associated with being against those policies. METHODS Data from 16,273 Brazilians, aged 12-65 years, interviewed in the 3rd Brazilian Household Survey on Substance Use (BHSU-3) were analyzed. The BHSU-3 is a nationwide, probability survey conducted in 2015. Individuals were asked if they would be against, neutral, or in favor of seven alcohol policies grouped as: 1) Strengthen restrictions on alcohol availability; 2) Enforce bans or restrictions on alcohol advertising, sponsorship, and promotion; and 3) Raise prices on alcohol through excise taxes and pricing. Generalized linear models were fitted to evaluate factors associated with being against each one of those policies and against all of policies. RESULTS Overall, 28% of the Brazilians supported all the above mentioned policies, whereas 16% were against them. The highest rate of approval refers to restricting advertising (53%), the lowest refers to increasing prices (40%). Factors associated with being against all policies were: being male (AOR = 1.1; 95%CI: 1.0-1.3), not having a religion (AOR = 1.4; 95%CI: 1.1-1.8), being catholic (AOR = 1.3; 95%CI: 1.1-1.5), and alcohol dependence (AOR = 1.6; 95%CI: 1.1-2.4). CONCLUSIONS The Brazilian government could count on the support of most of the population to restrict alcohol advertising. This information is essential to tackle the lobby of the alcohol industry and its clever marketing strategy.

HIV continuum of care among trans women and travestis living in São Paulo, Brazil

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: To examine the HIV care cascade among trans women and travestis in São Paulo - Brazil, the most populous city in South America. METHODS: Using data from a cross-sectional study carried out between November 2016 and May 2017 in the city of São Paulo (Divas Research). Respondent driven sampling (RDS) was used to recruit 386 transgender women and travestis who participated in a HIV risk survey and were tested for HIV. The cascade was defined as HIV prevalence, HIV diagnosed, Antiretroviral (ART) Prescription, and currently on ART. A multiple analysis model was conducted to identify the association between sociodemographics and the cascade gaps. RESULTS: Of the trans women living with HIV, 80.9% were already diagnosed, 76.6% of them had been prescribed, of which 90.3% were currently on treatment. Those who were registered in care had a higher rate of ART (aPR 2.06; 95%CI 1.09-3.88). Trans women between 31-40 years old (aPR 1.65; 95%CI 1.09-2.50) and those older than 40 (aPR 1.59; 95%CI 1.04-2.43) had higher prevalence of ART. CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest an increase in the testing and treatment policy implementation among trans women in the city of São Paulo, although gaps have been found in the linkage to care. However, young trans women and those not registered in health care service may benefit from efforts to engage this part of the population in care to improve HIV treatment and care outcomes.

Mulheres que fizeram aborto no Município do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil: aplicação de um modelo hierárquico bayesiano / Mujeres que abortaron en el Municipio de Río de Janeiro, Brasil: aplicación de un modelo jerárquico bayesiano / Women who have undergone abortion in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: application of a Bayesian hierarchical model

Resumo: Estimativas de mulheres que fizeram aborto provocado em localidades cujas leis são restritivas ainda são escassas na literatura científica, e a não coincidência de estimativas oriundas dos métodos hoje em uso clama pela aplicação de métodos inovadores, como novos métodos indiretos. Tal necessidade é especialmente aguda nas áreas mais densamente povoadas, como as capitais brasileiras, dada a magnitude do fenômeno e os danos e riscos daí decorrentes. O artigo objetiva estimar o número de mulheres que fez aborto provocado no Município do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil, em 2011, por meio de um modelo hierárquico bayesiano. Ele foi aplicado aos dados de um inquérito domiciliar que subsidiou a utilização do método network scale-up, no Município do Rio de Janeiro, um modelo hierárquico bayesiano utilizando as informações indiretas baseadas na rede de contatos dos participantes selecionados de forma aleatória da população. Das 1.758.145 mulheres de 15-49 anos residentes no Município do Rio de Janeiro (13.025; ICr95%: 10.635; 15.748) mulheres fizeram aborto provocado em 2011, resultando numa incidência acumulada média de 7,41 (ICr95%: 6,05; 8,96) para cada 1.000 mulheres de 15-49 anos. O estudo de autovalidação do modelo permitiu identificar padrões de subestimação em subpopulações estigmatizadas com baixa visibilidade social, como mulheres fizeram aborto provocado. O abortamento provocado é uma prática recorrente entre as mulheres no Município do Rio de Janeiro. Novos métodos de estimação indireta podem contribuir para a apreensão mais precisa do evento, considerando o contexto de ilegalidade, e contribuir para formulação de políticas de saúde.

Resumen: Las estimaciones de mujeres que tuvieron un aborto provocado en localidades cuyas leyes son restrictivas todavía son escasas en la literatura científica, y la no coincidencia de las estimaciones procedentes de los métodos hoy en uso reclama urgentemente la aplicación de métodos innovadores, como los nuevos métodos indirectos. Tal necesidad es especialmente acuciante en las áreas más densamente pobladas, como las capitales brasileñas, dada la magnitud del fenómeno y los daños y riesgos derivados de allí. El artículo tiene como objetivo estimar el número de mujeres que realizaron un aborto provocado en el Municipio de Río de Janeiro, Brasil, en 2011, a partir de un modelo jerárquico bayesiano. Este se aplicó a los datos de una encuesta domiciliaria que fomentó la utilización del método network scale-up, en el Municipio de Río de Janeiro, un modelo jerárquico bayesiano utilizando información indirecta, basada en la red de contactos de los participantes seleccionados de forma aleatoria en la población. De las 1.758.145 mujeres de 15-49 años, residentes en el Municipio de Río de Janeiro, 13.025 (ICr95%: 10.635; 15.748) mujeres tuvieron un aborto provocado en 2011, resultando en una incidencia acumulada media de 7,41 (ICr95%: 6,05; 8,96) para cada 1.000 mujeres de 15-49 años. El estudio de autovalidación del modelo permitió identificar patrones de subestimación en subpoblaciones estigmatizadas con baja visibilidad social, como las mujeres que tuvieron un aborto provocado. El aborto provocado es una práctica recurrente entre mujeres en el municipio de Río de Janeiro. Nuevos métodos de estimación indirecta pueden contribuir a la aprehensión más precisa de este evento, considerando el contexto de ilegalidad, y contribuir a la formulación de políticas de salud.

Abstract: Estimates of number of women who have undergone induced abortion in jurisdictions with restrictive abortion laws are still scarce in the scientific literature, and the disparate estimates from currently used methods call for the application of innovative estimation techniques such as new indirect methods. This need is especially acute in more densely populated areas, such as Brazil's state capitals, given the magnitude of unsafe abortions and the resulting risks and harms. The article aims to estimate the number of women who had induced abortions in the city of Rio de Janeiro in 2011, based on a Bayesian hierarchical model. The model was applied to data from a household survey that supported the use of the network scale-up method in the city of Rio de Janeiro, a Bayesian hierarchical model using indirect information based on the contact networks of randomly selected participants from the general population. Among the 1,758,145 women 15-49 years of age living in the city of Rio de Janeiro, 13,025 women (95%CrI: 10,635; 15,748) had induced abortions in 2011, resulting in a mean cumulative incidence of 7.41 (95%CrI: 6.05; 8.96) for every 1,000 women 15-49 years of age. The model's self-validation process identified patterns of underestimation in stigmatized subpopulations with low social visibility, such as women who have undergone induced abortion. Induced abortion is a common practice among women in the city of Rio de Janeiro. New indirect estimation methods can contribute to more precise measurement of this event, considering the context of illegality, and thereby contribute to appropriate health policies.

Inequalities in HAART uptake and differential survival according to exposure category in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Desigualdades no acesso à HAART e diferenças de sobrevida de acordo com a categoria de exposição ao HIV no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil / Desigualdades en el consumo de la TARGA y supervivencia diferencial según la categoría de exposición en Río de Janeiro, Brasil

Abstract: Despite substantial improvement in prognosis and quality of life among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Brazil, inequalities in access to treatment remain. We assessed the impact of these inequalities on survival in Rio de Janeiro over a 12-year period (2000/11). Data were merged from four databases that comprise the national AIDS monitoring system: SINAN-AIDS (Brazilian Information System for Notificable Diseases; AIDS cases), SISCEL (laboratory tests), SICLOM (electronic dispensing system), and SIM (Brazilian Mortality Information System), using probabilistic linkage. Cox regressions were fitted to assess the impact of HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy) on AIDS-related mortality among men who have sex with men (MSM), people who inject drugs (PWID), and heterosexuals diagnosed with AIDS, between 2000 and 2011, in the city of Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil. Among 15,420 cases, 60.7% were heterosexuals, 36.1% MSM and 3.2% PWID. There were 2,807 (18.2%) deaths and the median survival time was 6.29. HAART and CD4+ > 200 at baseline were associated with important protective effects. Non-whites had a 33% higher risk of dying in consequence of AIDS than whites. PWID had a 56% higher risk and MSM a 11% lower risk of dying of AIDS than heterosexuals. Non-white individuals, those with less than eight years of formal education, and PWID, were more likely to die of AIDS and less likely to receive HAART. Important inequalities persist in access to treatment, resulting in disparate impacts on mortality among exposure categories. Despite these persistent disparities, mortality decreased significantly during the period for all categories under analysis, and the overall positive impact of HAART on survival has been dramatic.

Resumo: Apesar de uma melhora substancial no prognóstico e na qualidade de vida de pessoas vivendo com HIV/aids (PVHA) no Brasil, permanecem desigualdades no acesso ao tratamento. Avaliamos o impacto dessas desigualdades na sobrevida na cidade do Rio de Janeiro ao longo de 12 anos (2000/11). Os dados foram consolidados a partir de quatro bases que constituem o sistema nacional de monitoramento da aids: SINAN-aids (Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação; casos de aids), SISCEL (exames laboratoriais), SICLOM (controle logístico de medicamentos) e SIM (Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade), usando relacionamento probabilístico. As regressões de Cox foram ajustadas para avaliar o impacto da HAART (terapia antirretroviral altivamente ativa) na mortalidade relacionada à aids entre homens que fazem sexo com homens (HSH), usuários de drogas injetáveis (UDI) e heterossexuais diagnosticados com aids entre 2000 e 2011 na cidade do Rio de Janeiro. Dos 15.420 casos, 60,7% eram heterossexuais, 36,1% HSH e 3,2% UDI. Houve 2.807 óbitos (18,2%) e a sobrevida mediana foi 6,29 anos. Houve associação significativa entre HAART e contagem de CD4+ > 200 na linha de base e importantes efeitos protetores. Comparados aos brancos, os não-brancos tiveram um risco 33% maior de morrer de aids. Os UDI tiveram um risco 56% maior, enquanto HSH tiveram um risco 11% menor de morrer de aids, comparados aos heterossexuais. Os indivíduos não-brancos, aqueles com menos de oito anos de escolaridade e UDI mostraram probabilidade mais alta de não receber HAART e de morrer de aids. No Rio de Janeiro, persistem desigualdades importantes no acesso ao tratamento, que resultam em impactos diferenciados na mortalidade de acordo com as categorias de exposição. Apesar da persistência dessas disparidades, a mortalidade diminuiu significativamente ao longo do período em todas as categorias analisadas, e o acesso à HAART teve impacto dramático no tempo de sobrevida.

Resumen: Pese a la mejora sustancial en el pronóstico y calidad de vida entre las personas que viven con VIH/SIDA (PLWHA) en Brasil, persisten las desigualdades en el acceso al tratamiento. Evaluamos el impacto de estas desigualdades en la supervivencia en Río de Janeiro, durante un período de 12 años (2000/11). Los datos fueron recabados de cuatros bases de datos que comprenden el sistema nacional de monitoreo del SIDA: SINAN-SIDA (Sistema de Información de Agravios de Notificación; casos de SIDA), SISCEL (pruebas de laboratorio), SICLOM (sistema dispensador electrónico), y SIM (Sistema de Información sobre la Mortalidad), usando una vinculación probabilística. Las regresiones de Cox fueron usadas para evaluar el impacto de la TARGA (terapia antirretroviral de gran actividad) en la mortalidad relacionada con el SIDA, entre hombres que tienen sexo con hombres (HSH), individuos que se inyectan drogas por vía intravenosa (PWID por sus siglas en inglés), y heterosexuales diagnosticados con SIDA, entre 2000 y 2011, en la ciudad de Río de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil. Entre 15.420 casos, un 60,7% eran heterosexuales, un 36,1% HSH y un 3,2% PWID. Hubo 2.807 (18.2%) muertes y el tiempo medio de supervivencia fue 6,29. TARGA y CD4+ > 200 en la base de referencia estuvieron asociados con efectos importantes de protección. Los no-blancos tuvieron un riesgo un 33% mayor de morir a consecuencia de SIDA que los blancos. Los PWID tuvieron un riesgo un 56% mayor, y los HSH un riesgo un 11% menor, de morir de SIDA que los heterosexuales. Los no-blancos, con menos de ocho años de educación formal, y los PWID, eran más propensos a morir de SIDA y menos a recibir TARGA. Existen importantes inequidades en el acceso al tratamiento, resultando en efectos dispares en la mortalidad entre las diferentes categorías exposición. A pesar de estas persistentes disparidades, la mortalidad decreció significativamente durante el periodo para todas las categorías bajo análisis, y el impacto general positivo del TARGA en la supervivencia había sido importantísimo.

Acesso aos serviços de atenção em álcool, crack e outras drogas – o caso do município do rio de Janeiro, Brasil / Access to treatment for those with alcohol, crack or other drug dependency problems - a case study in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Resumo A reforma psiquiátrica enfatizou garantias individuais, restrições a internações involuntárias, desincentivo a internações psiquiátricas e formação de redes comunitárias de atenção. A diversificação de clientelas e as normativas do Ministério da Saúde se adaptaram às necessidades de suporte aos indivíduos e familiares e às demandas decorrentes crescentes da agenda de atenção aos usuários de drogas. A escassez de serviços públicos comunitários favoreceu a difusão de serviços com práticas clinicamente não padronizadas e o debate sobre internações involuntárias. Analisamos a oferta de serviços de atenção em álcool, crack e outras drogas no município do Rio de Janeiro e observamos barreiras de acesso para serviços públicos especializados e de caráter comunitário de 24 horas e escassez de psiquiatras nas equipes multiprofissionais. Há uma difusão experimental de serviços privados, religiosos ou não, e de abrigos públicos, em resposta às novas demandas. O processo observado configura uma trajetória de experimentalismo na política setorial e são efetuadas recomendações sobre políticas governamentais.

Abstract Changes in psychiatric policies has meant more emphasis on the protection of the individual's rights, tougher regulations and disincentives regarding involuntary patient admissions, and the creation of a community network to support individuals needing help. The differing socioeconomic status of those requiring treatment coupled with guidelines issued by the Health Ministry has meant that more support and care is now being directed towards individuals and families. The rise in public awareness of the problems in these areas has aided in the changes that have taken place. Due to a lack of community public services, this has led to the proliferation of different types of services all with differing standards of care and has fueled the public debate surrounding involuntary patient admissions. Our analysis in relation to treatment for those with alcohol, crack and other drugs problems in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro, states that there are gaps related to access for all-day public services and a lack of psychiatrists in multi-disciplinary teams. There are many new and untried serviced offered by the private sector, religious bodies and public shelters which have arisen in the wake of the rise in people that need help. We took note of the development and progress of these new projects as well as the policy recommendations from the Government.

Viral suppression and adherence among HIV-infected children and adolescents on antiretroviral therapy: results of a multicenter study / Supressão viral e adesão entre crianças e adolescentes vivendo com HIV na terapia antirretroviral: resultados de um estudo multicêntrico

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate treatment adherence among perinatally-infected pediatric human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients followed in pediatric centers in Brazil. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional multicenter study. Medical records were reviewed and adherence scale, assessment of caregivers' quality of life (WHOQOL-BREF), anxiety, depression, and alcohol/substances use/abuse were assessed. Outcomes included self-reported 100% adherence in the last three days and HIV viral load (VL) < 50 copies/mL. Statistical analyses included contingency tables and respective statistics, and multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS: 260 subjects were enrolled: 78% children and 22% adolescents; 93% of caregivers for the children and 77% of adolescents reported 100% adherence; 57% of children and 49% of adolescents had VL < 50 copies/mL. In the univariate analyses, HIV diagnosis for screening due to maternal infection, lower caregiver scores for anxiety, and higher scores in physical and psychological domains of WHOQOL-BREF were associated with 100% adherence. Shorter intervals between pharmacy visits were associated with VL < 50 copies/mL (p ≤ 0.01). Multivariable regression demonstrated that caregivers who did not abuse alcohol/other drugs (OR = 0.49; 95% CI: 0.27-0.89) and median interval between pharmacy visits < 33 days (OR = 0.97; 95% CI: 0.95-0.98) were independently associated with VL < 50 copies/mL; whereas lower caregiver scores for anxiety (OR = 2.57; 95% CI: 1.27-5.19) and children's HIV diagnosis for screening due to maternal infection (OR = 2.25; 95% CI: 1.12-4.50) were found to be independently associated with 100% adherence. CONCLUSIONS: Pediatric HIV programs should perform routine assessment of caregivers' quality of life, and anxiety and depression symptoms. In this setting, pharmacy records are essential to help identify less-than-optimal adherence. .

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a adesão ao tratamento antirretroviral entre portadores de HIV acompanhados em centros pediátricos. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de estudo transversal multicêntrico. Os prontuários ambulatoriais foram revistos e aplicadas escala de adesão, avaliação de qualidade de vida (WHOQOL-BREF), ansiedade, depressão e uso indevido de álcool/substâncias entre cuidadores. Os desfechos incluíram autorrelato 100% de adesão nos últimos três dias e carga viral do HIV (CV) < 50 cópias/mL. RESULTADOS: 260 indivíduos foram incluídos, 79% crianças e 21% adolescentes; 93% das crianças e 77% dos adolescentes relataram 100% de adesão; 57% das crianças e 49% dos adolescentes tinham CV < 50 cópias /mL. Na análise univariada, diagnóstico do HIV por triagem devido à infecção materna, cuidador com pontuação menor para ansiedade e maior nos domínios físico e psicológico do WHOQOL-BREF se mostraram independentemente associados a 100% de adesão. Intervalos mais curtos entre visitas de farmácia foram associados com CV < 50 cópias /mL (p ≤ 0,01). Regressão multivariada mostrou que os cuidadores sem abuso de álcool/outras drogas (OR = 0,49; IC95% 0,27-0,89) e o intervalo médio entre visitas de farmácia < 33 dias (OR = 0,97; IC95% 0,95-0,98) foram associados com CV < 50 cópias/mL; cuidador com menores escores para ansiedade (OR = 2,57; IC95% 1,27-5,19) e diagnóstico de crianças por triagem devido à infecção materna (OR = 2,25; IC95% 1,12-4,50) foram associados com 100% de adesão. CONCLUSÕES: Programas de HIV pediátrico devem avaliar qualidade de vida e sintomas de ansiedade e depressão dos cuidadores. Registros de farmácia são essenciais na identificação de adesão ...

Have drivers at alcohol outlets changed their behavior after the new traffic law?

Objective: In an attempt to reduce high levels of traffic crashes, a new legislation was approved in Brazil in 2008. This study aimed to assess behavioral change among drivers who had drunk at alcohol outlets (AO) after implementation of the law. Method: A three-stage probability sampling survey was conducted in Porto Alegre, state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Individuals seen leaving AOs after drinking were approached (n=3,018). Selected drivers (n=683) answered a structured interview, were breathalyzed, and had saliva specimens collected for drug screening. Results: Overall, 60.3% (SE 4.5) of drivers reported they did not change their behavior. Among those who reported behavioral changes, most reported drinking less as their main strategy toward safer driving behavior. Variables independently associated with behavior change included having drunk at a high outlet density area (odds ratio [OR] 1.7 [1.1-2.8]) and having a favorable opinion about the law (OR 4.3 [2.1-8.9]). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that awareness of the law has not been enough to promote behavioral change. As most drivers had a favorable opinion of the law and this variable was found to be the strongest predictor of behavior change, efforts to better integrate education and enforcement seem to be pivotal and might be well received by the population. .

Social geography of AIDS in Brazil: identifying patterns of regional inequalities / Geografia social da AIDS no Brasil: identificando padroes de desigualdades regionais / Geografia social del SIDA en Brasil: los patrones de identificacion de las desigualdades regionales

The trend towards decline and stabilization of the AIDS epidemic in Brazil should be analyzed carefully, since aggregate data can mask regional or local inequalities in such a large and diverse country. The current study reevaluates the epidemic’s spatial dissemination and the AIDS-related mortality pattern in Brazil. The study considered all AIDS cases diagnosed in individuals over 18 years of age and living in Brazil, as well as AIDS deaths recorded in 1998-2008. Three-year moving average rates were estimated, and a spatial analysis was conducted using a local empirical Bayesian method. The epidemic was only found to be expanding in the North and Northeast regions, while declining in the rest of the country, especially in the Southeast. According to the findings, the apparent stabilization of AIDS mortality tends to mask regional disparities. Social determinants of health and regional disparities should be taken into account in program development and policymaking.

A tendência ao declínio e estabilização da epidemia de AIDS no Brasil deve ser analisada de forma criteriosa, uma vez que, num país de grande extensão territorial e diversidade, dados agregados podem mascarar desigualdades regionais ou locais. Este estudo reavalia a difusão espacial da epidemia e o padrão de mortalidade secundária à AIDS no Brasil. Foram considerados todos os casos diagnosticados em maiores de 18 anos, residentes no país, bem como os óbitos registrados em 1998-2008. Foram estimadas taxas médias móveis trienais e realizada análise espacial com auxílio do método bayesiano empírico local. Verificou-se que a epidemia encontrava-se em expansão apenas no Norte e Nordeste, enquanto declinava no restante do país, acentuadamente no Sudeste. Os achados mostram que a aparente estabilização da mortalidade por AIDS tende a mascarar disparidades regionais. Os determinantes sociais da saúde e disparidades regionais devem ser levadas em conta na formulação de programas e políticas.

La disminución y estabilización de la epidemia de SIDA en Brasil deben ser consideradas con prudencia, ya que, en un país grande y diverso, los datos agregados pueden ocultar desigualdades regionales pronunciadas. El estudio reevaluó la difusión espacial de la epidemia y las muertes secundarias por SIDA. Se consideraron todos los casos diagnosticados con 18+ años, residentes en Brasil, así como las muertes registradas en 1998-2008. Se estimaran las tasas medias móviles desde hace tres años y se llevó a cabo el análisis espacial a través del método bayesiano empírico local. La epidemia estaba en expansión en el Norte y Noreste, mientras que se redujo en el resto del país, en especial en el Sureste. Los análisis subrayan que la aparente estabilización de la mortalidad por SIDA oculta disparidades regionales. Los determinantes sociales de la salud y las disparidades regionales son claves en la formulación de programas y políticas públicas en Brasil.

Politicas de reducao de danos no Brasil: contribuicoes de um programa norte-americano / Harm Reduction Policies in Brazil: contributions of a north american program

Considerando a disseminação da epidemia de HIV e o controle de sua transmissão entre usuários de drogas injetáveis (UDI), estratégias de redução de danos foram incorporadas em diversos países, incluindo o Brasil. Considerando a emergência das drogas como tema central na agenda governamental, especialmente o crack, o presente artigo registra e discute as práticas observadas em um programa de pesquisa e atenção aos UDI: o UFO. Foram considerados aspectos tais como acesso e adesão do usuário, dificuldades de financiamento, sustentabilidade e avaliação de resultados. As etapas do estudo envolveram pesquisa documental, observação sistemática e entrevistas com informantes-chave. Destacamos características do UFO que poderiam contribuir para políticas de redução de danos no cenário brasileiro. O programa estudado se apresenta como um exemplo exitoso de iniciativas de redução de danos, obtendo sucesso no acesso e adesão desse grupo, favorecendo seu acesso aos serviços de saúde e prevenção de riscos associados ao uso de drogas. .

Given the rapid spread of the HIV epidemic and the need to control its transmission among intravenous drug users (IDU), harm reduction strategies have been incorporated in many countries, including Brazil. Considering these aspects and taking into account the emergence of drugs as a core concern on the government's agenda, especially crack cocaine, this article presents some of the contributions acquired from observing and recording the practices of an American model of research and care for IDUs, namely the UFO (You Find Out) Study. Issues such as participants' access and adherence, financing difficulties, sustainability and outcome evaluation were considered. The study involved documental research, systematic observation and interviews with key informants. Some of the UFO features that could contribute to the formulation of harm reduction policies in Brazil are highlighted. The UFO appears to be a successful example of harm reduction initiatives that successfully contact and guarantee the commitment of that risk group, ensuring its access to health services and reducing risks associated with drug use.

A profile of patients treated at a national leprosy outpatient referral clinic in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 1986-2007 / Perfil de los enfermos tratados en un servicio nacional de remisión de pacientes ambulatorios con lepra en Río de Janeiro, Brasil, 1986-2007

OBJECTIVE: To analyze a profile of patients treated at a national leprosy outpatient referral clinic in metropolitan Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, over a period of more than two decades, and the subgroup of nationally registered leprosy cases from the same residential area, as well as all registered cases statewide. METHODS: An observational, descriptive analysis was carried out for patients treated from 1986 to 2007 at the Souza Araújo Outpatient Clinic (Ambulatório Souza Araújo, ASA), a national referral center for the diagnosis and treatment of leprosy at the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) that serves clients from the city of Rio de Janeiro and other municipalities in the metropolitan area of Rio de Janeiro State. Demographic and clinical data for the subgroup of leprosy cases registered with Brazil's National Disease Notification System (Sistema Nacional de Informação de Agravos de Notificação, SINAN) between 2001 and 2007 and residing in the same municipalities as the ASA patients, and for all registered cases statewide, were also analyzed. RESULTS: Among the ASA patients, there was a decrease in average family income (from 3.9 to 2.7 times the minimum salary between the periods 1998-2002 and 2003-2007); the proportion of multibacillary (MB) patients (from 52.7% to 46.9%); and the proportion of patients younger than 15 years old (from 12.8% to 8.7%). Among the MB patients, the average initial and final bacilloscopic indices were significantly higher in 2003-2007. Compared with the SINAN cases, more ASA cases involved disability and were younger than 15 years old. CONCLUSIONS: Patients living with leprosy in the metropolitan area of the state of Rio de Janeiro belong to the most deprived social strata and have not benefited from the overall improvement in socioeconomic conditions in Brazil.

OBJETIVO: Analizar el perfil de los enfermos tratados en un servicio nacional de remisión de pacientes ambulatorios con lepra ubicado en la zona metropolitana de Río de Janeiro, Brasil, durante más de dos decenios, y el subgrupo de casos de lepra registrados a nivel nacional de la misma zona de residencia, así como todos los casos registrados a nivel estatal. MÉTODOS: Se llevó a cabo un análisis observacional y descriptivo de los pacientes tratados desde 1986 a 2007 en el servicio ambulatorio Souza Araújo (ASA), un centro de remisión nacional para el diagnóstico y el tratamiento de la lepra en la Fundación Oswaldo Cruz, que atiende a pacientes de la ciudad de Río de Janeiro y de otros municipios de la zona metropolitana del Estado de Río de Janeiro. También se analizaron los datos demográficos y clínicos del subgrupo de casos de lepra registrados con el Sistema Nacional de Notificación de Enfermedades del Brasil (SINAN) entre el 2001 y el 2007 residentes en los mismos municipios que los pacientes atendidos en el ASA, y de todos los casos registrados a nivel estatal. RESULTADOS: En los pacientes atendidos en el ASA hubo una disminución en los ingresos familiares promedio (de 3,9 a 2,7 veces el sueldo mínimo entre los períodos 1998-2002 y 2003-2007), en la proporción de pacientes multibacilares (de 52,7% a 46,9%), y en la proporción de pacientes menores de 15 años de edad (de 12,8% a 8,7%). En los pacientes multibacilares, los índices baciloscópicos promedio inicial y final fueron significativamente mayores en el período 2003-2007. En comparación con los casos del SINAN, en el ASA hubo más casos con discapacidad y en menores de 15 años de edad. CONCLUSIONES: Los pacientes con lepra de la zona metropolitana del Estado de Río de Janeiro pertenecen al estrato social más bajo y no se han beneficiado con el mejoramiento general de la situación socioeconómica en el Brasil.

Diferenças ultrassonográficas da quantidade de gordura corporal e os antirretrovirais / Differences in body fat distribution assessed by ultrasonography in patients receiving antiretroviral drugs

OBJETIVO: Este estudo procurou avaliar o conteúdo de gordura dos portadores do HIV segundo o tempo de uso da terapia antirretroviral (TEMPARV), < 1 ano e > 1 ano. MÉTODOS: A regressão linear múltipla foi utilizada para investigar a associação entre as variáveis ultrassonográficas dos compartimentos corporais de gordura (CCG) da face, braço, abdômen subcutâneo e visceral e as seguintes variáveis explanatórias: sexo, idade, IMC e TEMPARV. RESULTADOS: Do total de pacientes (187), 102 com TEMPARV > 1ano eram portadores de lipodistrofia relacionada ao HIV (LD-HIV), diagnosticados de acordo com os questionários clínicos. Já aqueles com TEMPARV < 1 ano (n= 85, ≈46%) não apresentavam LD-HIV. Com relação ao compartimento visceral, a diferença entre os pacientes com TEMPARV > 1 ano e < 1 ano foi de 11 mm de gordura adicionais naqueles em TEMPARV > 1 ano. As mulheres tinham mais gordura que os homens em todos os CCG periféricos, enquanto eles tinham 7,2 mm a mais de gordura visceral que elas, em média. CONCLUSÃO: A ultrassonografia é um método capaz de medir a espessura de gordura dos CGC aplicável à prática clínica para diagnosticar a LD-HIV.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the body fat content of HIV patients according to the duration of antiretroviral therapy use (DURARV), < 1 year and > 1 year. METHODS: Multiple linear regression was used to investigate the association between ultrasonographic variables of body fat compartments (BFCs) of the face, arm, subcutaneous and visceral abdomen, and the following explanatory variables: gender, age, BMI, and DURARV. RESULTS: Of all patients (187), 102 of them with DURARV > 1 year were suffering from HIV-related lipodystrophy (HIV-LD), diagnosed through clinical questionnaires. Those with DURARV < 1 year (n = 85, = 46%) did not have HIV-LD. Regarding the visceral compartment, the difference between those with DURARV > 1 year and < 1 year was 11 mm of additional fat content in those with DURARV > 1 year. Women had more fat than men in all peripheral BFCs, while men had 7.2 mm more visceral fat than women, on average. CONCLUSION: Ultrasonography is a method capable of measuring the thickness of BFCs and is applicable to clinical practice to diagnose HIV-LD.

Pregnancy rates and predictors in women with HIV/AIDS in Rio de Janeiro, Southeastern Brazil / Incidência e preditores de gestação em mulheres com HIV/Aids no Rio de Janeiro / Incidencia y predictores de gestación en mujeres con VIH/SIDA en Rio de Janeiro, Sureste de Brasil

OBJECTIVE: To assess incidence and predictors of first pregnancy among women with HIV/AIDS. METHODS: Prospective cohort study was conducted in Rio de Janeiro, southeastern Brazil, between 1996 and 2003. This study comprised 225 women with HIV/AIDS followed up until their first pregnancy or first censored event (hysterectomy, tubal ligation, menopause, 50 years of age, loss to follow-up, death or the end of December 2003). Pregnancy and abortion rates were estimated, and Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify baseline characteristics associated with pregnancy risk. RESULTS: The women were followed up for 565 person/years with a median follow-up of 3 years per women. The mean age was 32 years (SD: 7), and 54.7% were white. There were 60 pregnancies in 39 women, and 18 were terminated (induced abortions), accounting for a rate of 6.9% and 2.1% women/year, respectively. Repeated pregnancies occurred in 33.3% of the women (13/39). Higher pregnancy risk was seen among younger women (HR=3.42; 95%CI: 1.69;6.95) and those living with their partners (HR=1.89; 95%CI: 1.00;3.57). Lower pregnancy risk was associated with higher education level (HR=0.43; 95%CI: 0.19;0.99) and use of antiretroviral therapy (HR=061; 95%CI: 0.31;1.17). CONCLUSIONS: Lower pregnancy rates were found in our cohort than in the general population. Sociodemographic characteristics should be taken into consideration in the management of reproductive health in HIV-positive childbearing age women. Reproductive and family planning counseling must be incorporated into HIV/AIDS programs for women to help preventing HIV transmission to their partners and offspring.

OBJETIVO: Identificar incidência e preditores incidência da primeira gestação entre mulheres com HIV/Aids. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo de coorte conduzido entre 1996 e 2003 no Rio de Janeiro, RJ, com 225 mulheres acompanhadas até a primeira gestação ou até o primeiro evento considerado censura (histerectomia, ligadura tubárea, menopausa, 50 anos de idade, perda de acompanhamento, óbito ou final de dezembro de 2003). Taxas de incidência de gestação e de aborto foram estimadas e modelos de riscos proporcionais de Cox foram usados para identificar as características da visita de inclusão associadas com o risco de gestação. RESULTADOS: As mulheres foram acompanhadas por 565 pessoas/ano, com média de acompanhamento de 3 anos por mulher. A idade média foi de 32 anos (DP: 7) e 54,7% eram brancas. Sessenta gestações foram observadas em 39 mulheres e 18 resultaram em abortos induzidos (taxas de incidência de 6,9% e 2,1% mulheres/ano, respectivamente). Gestações repetidas ocorreram em 33,3% das mulheres (13/39). Maior risco de gestação foi observado entre mulheres jovens (HR = 3,42; IC95%:1,69;6,95) e entre aquelas vivendo com seus parceiros (HR = 1,89; IC95%:1,00;3,57). Menor risco de gestação esteve associado à maior escolaridade (HR = 0,43; IC95%:0,19;0,99) e ao uso de terapia anti-retroviral (HR = 0,61; IC95%:0,31;1,17). CONCLUSÕES: A incidência de gestação na coorte foi menor se comparada àquela observada na população geral. Características sociodemográficas devem ser consideradas no manejo dos desejos reprodutivos de mulheres HIV-positivas em idade reprodutiva. Os programas de HIV/Aids devem incluir aconselhamento reprodutivo e contraceptivo para prevenir a transmissão do HIV para seus parceiros e prole.

OBJETIVO: Identificar incidencia y predictores de la primera gestación entre mujeres con VIH/Sida. MÉTODOS: Estudio prospectivo de cohorte conducido en Rio de Janeiro, Sureste de Brasil, entre 1996 y 2003. El estudio incluyó 225 mujeres acompañadas hasta la primera gestación o hasta el primer evento considerado censura (histerectomía, ligadura tubárica, menopausia, 50 años de edad, pérdida de acompañamiento, óbito o final de diciembre de 2003). Se estimaron las tasas de incidencia de gestación y de aborto, y se usaron modelos de riesgos proporcionales de Cox para identificar las características de la visita de inclusión asociadas con el riesgo de gestación. RESULTADOS: Las mujeres fueron acompañadas por 565 persona/años, con promedio de acompañamiento de 3 años por mujer. La edad promedio fue de 32 años (DP:7), y 54,7 por ciento eran blancas. Sesenta gestaciones fueron observadas en 39 mujeres y 18 resultaron en abortos inducidos (tasas de incidencia de 6,9 por ciento y 2,1 por ciento mujeres/año, respectivamente). Las gestaciones repetidas ocurrieron en 33,3 por ciento de las mujeres (13/39). Fue observado el mayor riesgo de gestación entre mujeres jóvenes (HR=3,42; IC 95 por ciento:1,69;6,95) y entre aquellas que vivían con sus parejas (HR=1,89; IC 95 por ciento: 1,00;3,57). El menor riesgo de gestación estuvo asociado a la mayor escolaridad (HR=0,43; IC95 por ciento:0,19;0,99) y al uso de terapia antirretroviral (HR=0,61; IC95 por ciento:0,31;1,17). CONCLUSIONES: La incidencia de gestación en la cohorte fue menor al compararse con aquella observada en la población general. Características sociodemográficas deben ser consideradas en el manejo de los deseos reproductivos de mujeres VIH-positivas en edad reproductiva. Los programas de VIH/SIDA deben incluir consejos reproductivos y contraceptivos para prevenir la transmisión del VIH para sus parejas y prole.