Early discharge predictors among inpatient crack cocaine users

Abstract Introduction High rates of early hospital discharge are often observed in crack cocaine users and are related to adverse outcomes and increased public spending. This study evaluated clinical and sociodemographic factors associated with early treatment discharge among crack users. Methods The sample comprised 308 men diagnosed with crack cocaine use disorder (crack only), aged 18 to 65 years, admitted between 2013 and 2017 to a male-only hospital unit to treat substance use disorders. Sociodemographic and clinical data were obtained using the Addiction Severity Index, 6th version, and a Sociodemographic Questionnaire. Results Early discharge (within 7 days) was significantly associated with lack of own income, insufficient family support, being single, and recent homelessness. Regarding drug use, lower treatment retention was related to younger age of crack use onset, recent alcohol use, and nicotine use. Factors such as age, skin color, and educational level showed no relation to the outcome. Conclusion Our findings suggest that presence of characteristics verifiable at the time of admission may be related to crack users' treatment retention. Identification of these factors can contribute to target interventions in order to improve treatment adherence in crack cocaine users.

High COVID-19 morbidity and mortality risk among smoked drug users in Brazil

Abstract In much of the West, including Brazil, drug use has increased since social distancing began in response to the pandemic. Use of smoked and modified drugs, and their impacts on health, may contribute to aggravate the effects of the pandemic. However, studies on the relationship between use of smoked drugs and the new coronavirus are still scarce and have not received enough attention in global health recommendations. This paper aims to briefly review the relationship between use of smoked drugs and acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 [SARS-CoV-2]. Recent studies also suggest that drug consumption increases the risk of contamination by SARS-CoV-2 and leads to worse prognosis, particularly consumption of drugs that affect lung function. Use of smoked drugs, especially tobacco, is strongly associated with lung diseases that are risk factors for contamination by SARS-CoV-2. It is essential to develop strategies based on specific characteristics of drug users and for mental health professionals to be included in strategic teams. It is also necessary to invest in information campaigns regarding risks and prevention of harm caused by smoked drugs as well as to design strategies that facilitate access to psychosocial treatment during the pandemic.

Fatores associados à exposição ao HIV em usuários de álcool / Factors associated with HIV exposure in alcohol users

Introdução: A prevalência de HIV é maior em Porto Alegre comparada ao restante do país. O abuso de álcool afeta o juízo crítico, sendo associado a comportamentos de risco que podem levar à contaminação pelo HIV. Objetiva-se analisar fatores associados à exposição ao HIV em alcoolistas com práticas sexuais de risco comparando com aqueles que se previnem.Métodos: Estudo transversal com 126 homens alcoolistas (HIV negativo), divididos em 2 grupos: Exposto Sexual (n = 42) e Pouco Exposto Sexual (n = 84), considerando uso de preservativo e número de parceiros sexuais.Resultados: A maioria dos sujeitos do grupo Exposto Sexual era solteiro, sem ocupação laboral, com histórico de moradia de rua e de relação com profissional do sexo, apresentavam maior preocupação com infecção por HIV (p < 0,05).Conclusão: Sugere-se o desenvolvimento e monitoramento de intervenções preventivas específicas, considerando as características do abuso de álcool e seu papel na transmissão do HIV.

Introduction: The HIV prevalence is higher in Porto Alegre compared to other capitals in Brazil. Alcohol abuse affects critical judgment, being associated with risky behaviors that can lead to HIV infection. Aim:To analyze factors associated with exposure to HIV in alcohol users, comparing those with risky sexual practices and those who use prevention methods.Methods: Cross-sectional study with 126 male alcohol users (HIV negative), divided into 2 groups: Sexually Exposed (n = 42) and Less Sexually Exposed (n = 84), considering condom use and number of sexual partners.Results: Most subjects in the Sexually Exposed group were single, without a job, with a history of homelessness and a relationship with a sexual worker, and were more concerned about HIV infection (p < 0.05).Conclusion: The development and monitoring of specific preventive interventions is suggested, considering the characteristics of alcohol abuse and its role in HIV transmission.

Assessment of cognitive functioning using the Mini Mental State Examination in men with alcohol and crack cocaine use disorder

Abstract Introduction Consumption of substances has been associated with cognitive impairment. The Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) is an easy-to-apply screening tool used to assess cognitive functions. Objectives To evaluate the cognitive performance of individuals with alcohol (AUD) and/or crack cocaine use disorder (CUD) and polysubstance use using the MMSE and to investigate the impact of substance use profile and the moderation effect of educational level on MMSE performance. Methods Cross-sectional study with 508 adult male inpatients diagnosed with substance use disorders (245 with AUD, 85 with CUD, and 178 with polysubstance use). Cognitive performance was assessed using the MMSE scale (total and composite scores). Results Individuals with AUD had worse total MMSE scores and scored worse for all three MMSE components compared to individuals with polysubstance use (p < 0.001, oral/written language comprehension, p < 0.001, attention/memory, and p = 0.007, motor functions). MMSE scores were positively correlated with educational level (p < 0.017), but were not associated with age, recent drug use, or years of drug use. Educational level moderated the impact of substance use on MMSE performance, especially total score and composite language comprehension score. Individuals with a low educational level (≤ 8 years) had worse performance than those with a high educational level (≥ 9 years), mainly in individuals with AUD (p < 0.001). Discussion Individuals with a low educational level and alcohol use are more prone to present cognitive impairment than crack cocaine users, especially involving language aspects. Better-preserved cognitive function could impact treatment adherence and might guide the decision of therapeutic strategies.

Psychometric properties of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI) in healthcare professionals

Abstract Introduction Burnout syndrome (BS) in healthcare professionals (HCP) has been a major concern, and even more so during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The need for adequate tools to assess BS is urgent. The objective of this study was to validate the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI) in HCP. Methods The sample comprised 1,054 Brazilian HCP. Data were collected for 1 month (May-2020 to June-2020) using an online self-administered questionnaire. Results All three CBI dimensions demonstrated optimal reliability. All consistency measures attained values > 0.90. Split-half correlation values with Spearman-Brown reliability were higher than 0.8. The parallel analysis suggested two factors: personal burnout (PB) and work-related burnout (WB) items were associated with factor 1, and client-related burnout (CB) items were associated with factor 2. Conclusion Our study corroborates the validity of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the CBI, pointing to a close relation between PB and WB in HCP. A public domain tool with evidence quality to ensure sufficient content validity can aid in burnout evaluation and encourage both expansion of the research field and accurate detection and treatment of this syndrome in Brazilian HCP.

Differential impact on suicide mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil

Objectives: To compare suicide rates observed in Brazil after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic with the estimated rate based on suicide deaths between 2010 and 2020, and identify sociodemographic variables associated with this outcome. Methods: Ecological time-series study. Data were obtained from Brazilian Unified Health System Department of Information Technology (DATASUS), with the structural break of the data set in March 2020. The number of actual suicides observed and the number of expected suicides if there were no COVID-19 pandemic were analyzed through bayesian structural time series modeling. Results: The overall incidence of suicides in Brazil remained stable after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic compared to what would be expected. However, there was a significant increase in suicide deaths among women (6.9%) and older adult (9.1%). Analysis by macro-regions of the country showed significant increases in suicide deaths in the Center-West (7.4%), Northeast (5.7%), and Southeast (10%). Stratified analyses revealed differences according to age, sex, education, and skin color. Conclusions: Despite stability in the overall number of suicides, this phenomenon occurs heterogeneously among different population groups and regions of Brazil. Rates have increased in populations with a history of poor access to health, which may have been more severely impacted by the pandemic.

Inflammatory cytokines and alcohol use disorder: systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective: To assess differences in blood inflammatory cytokines between people with alcohol use disorder (AUD) and healthy controls (HC). Methods: Searches were performed from inception through April 14, 2021. Meta-analyses with random-effects models were used to calculate the standardized mean difference ([SMD], 95%CI), and potential sources of heterogeneity were explored trough meta-regressions and subgroup analysis. Results: The meta-analysis included 23 studies on the following 14 cytokines: tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-1, IL-1RA, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-10, IL-13, IL15, interferon (IFN)-γ and sCD14. There were significantly higher concentrations of IL-6 (n=462 AUD and 408 HC; SMD = 0.523; 95%CI 0.136-0.909; p = 0.008) in AUD than HC. No significant differences were found in the other 13 cytokines. Conclusion: We found that IL-6 levels were significantly higher in individuals with AUD than HC and that other cytokines were not altered. This can be explained by the small number of studies, their methodological heterogeneity, and confounding factors (active use, abstinence, quantity, and physical or psychiatric illnesses, for example). Despite a great deal of evidence about alcohol and inflammatory diseases, studies assessing the role of neuroimmune signaling in the development and severity of AUD are still lacking.

Gender differences in progression to crack-cocaine use and the role of sexual and physical violence

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate whether progression from first drug use to crack-cocaine use differs according to gender, and whether the report of sexual or physical violence impacts the time of progression. Methods: We interviewed 896 crack-cocaine users (548 men; 348 women) from addiction treatment units. Cox regression models evaluated the time of progression from first drug use to crack use. We analyzed gender differences according to the absence or presence of sexual or physical violence, also considering whether violence, when present, had occurred before or after the onset of crack use. Results: Women presented a faster progression to crack use regardless of exposure to sexual or physical violence (p < 0.05). Compared to unexposed men, there was a similar progression for men exposed to sexual or physical violence before the first use of crack (p = 0.167 and p = 0.393, respectively). In both genders, we observed a faster progression among individuals exposed to these types of violence after the onset of crack use (p < 0.01). Conclusions: We found a faster progression to crack use among women and among individuals exposed to sexual and physical violence after the onset of crack use. These results encourage differentiated treatment strategies, focused on gender and individual characteristics.

Childhood trauma subtypes may influence the pattern of substance use and preferential substance in men with alcohol and/or crack-cocaine addiction

Objective: To compare the prevalence and subtypes of childhood maltreatment (CM) between individuals with and without substance use disorder (SUD) and investigate the influence of different traumas on the preferential use of substances and the severity of dependence. Methods: The sample consisted of 1,040 men with SUD (alcohol users [n=315], crack-cocaine users [n=406], multiple-substance users [n=319]) and 201 controls. The Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) and the Addiction Severity Index-6 (ASI-6) were used to assess CM and drug-use patterns. Results: Individuals with SUD had a higher prevalence of CM than controls (63.4 vs. 28.1%, respectively). Exposure to physical trauma was associated with alcohol use disorder and severity of alcohol use. In contrast, emotional trauma was associated with use of multiple substances and severity of drug use in crack-cocaine users. Conclusions: This study corroborates the association of CM with SUD susceptibility. Our results suggest that the type of CM may influence preferential substance use and addiction severity. In this sense, physical traumas are more associated with alcohol use, while emotional and sexual traumas favor use of multiple drugs, especially crack cocaine. These findings may help the development of tailored prevention and intervention strategies.

Evidências científicas sobre os benefícios da religião: espiritualidade em pacientes oncológicos / Scientific evidence of the benefits of religion: spirituality in patients with cancer

INTRODUÇÃO: O câncer é uma condição altamente prevalente. Os efeitos da doença e/ou do tratamento extrapolam a esfera física, afetando a saúde mental, a funcionalidade e os relacionamentos familiares e sociais. Em pacientes oncológicos, a religião/espiritualidade (R/E) está presente e tem sido associada a benefícios em diversas esferas. Porém, ainda há poucas publicações científicas abordando este tema na língua portuguesa. OBJETIVO: Investigar as evidências científicas sobre os benefícios da R/E em pacientes oncológicos a partir de uma revisão rápida de literatura. MÉTODO: a busca sistematizada foi realizada em agosto de 2020, no PubMed, a partir das palavras-chave cancer and religion or religiosity or spirituality. Foram recuperados 1.106 artigos publicados entre 2000 e 2020, dos quais 31 revisões sistemáticas ou meta-análises preencheram os critérios de inclusão. RESULTADOS: Há evidências que, em pacientes oncológicos, a R/E tem efeitos positivos na saúde mental, incluindo redução da ansiedade, depressão e estresse, além de melhora no humor e aceitação. Na saúde física, está associada à redução na fadiga e melhora do sono. Na saúde social, influencia a manutenção/ ampliação da rede de apoio. Na qualidade de vida, destacam-se o bem-estar físico e espiritual, redução de efeitos colaterais, diminuição do humor negativo e angústia, estados afetivos mais positivos e maiores níveis de autoestima. CONCLUSÃO: Estratégias que envolvem R/E parecem promissoras na abordagem complementar de pacientes oncológicos, estando associadas à melhora da saúde mental, física, social e qualidade de vida. O avanço nas pesquisas deve continuar, principalmente em relação aos mecanismos em que a R/E impacta a saúde.(AU)

INTRODUCTION: Cancer is a highly prevalent condition. The effects of the disease and/or treatment go beyond the physical sphere, affecting mental health, functionality and family and social relationships. In cancer patients, religion/spirituality (R/S) is present and has been associated with benefits in several spheres. However, there are still few scientific publications addressing this topic in Portuguese. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the scientific evidence on the benefits of R/S in cancer patients from a quick literature review. METHOD: the systematic search was carried out in August 2020, in PubMed, using the keywords cancer and religion or religiosity or spirituality. A total of 1,106 articles published between 2000 and 2020 were retrieved, of which 31 systematic reviews or meta-analyses met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS: There is evidence that, in cancer patients, R/S has positive effects on mental health, including reduced anxiety, depression and stress, in addition to improving mood and acceptance. In physical health, it is associated with reduced fatigue and improved sleep. In social health, it influences the maintenance/expansion of the support network. In terms of quality of life, physical and spiritual well-being, reduced side effects, decreased negative mood and anguish, more positive affective states and higher levels of self-esteem stand out. CONCLUSION: Strategies involving R/S seem to be promising in the complementary approach of cancer patients, being associated with improved mental, physical and social health and quality of life. Advances in research should continue, especially in relation to the mechanisms by which R/S impacts health.(AU)

INTRODUCCIÓN: el cáncer es una enfermedad de alta prevalencia. Los efectos de la enfermedad y/o tratamiento van más allá del ámbito físico, afectando la salud mental, la funcionalidad y las relaciones familiares y sociales. En los pacientes con cáncer, la religión/espiritualidad (R/E) está presente y se ha asociado con beneficios en varias esferas. Sin embargo, todavía hay pocas publicaciones científicas que aborden este tema en portugués. OBJETIVO: Investigar la evidencia científica sobre los beneficios de la R/E en pacientes con cáncer a partir de una revisión rápida de la literatura. MÉTODO: la búsqueda sistemática se realizó en agosto de 2020, en PubMed, utilizando las palabras clave cáncer y religión o religiosidad o espiritualidad. Se recuperaron un total de 1106 artículos publicados entre 2000 y 2020, de los cuales 31 revisiones sistemáticas o metanálisis cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. RESULTADOS: Existe evidencia de que, en pacientes con cáncer, la R/E tiene efectos positivos sobre la salud mental, incluida la reducción de la ansiedad, la depresión y el estrés, además de mejorar el estado de ánimo y la aceptación. En salud física, se asocia con una reducción de la fatiga y una mejora del sueño. En salud social, influye en el mantenimiento/expansión de la red de apoyo. En cuanto a calidad de vida, bienestar físico y espiritual, se destacan la reducción de efectos secundarios, la disminución del estado de ánimo negativo y la angustia, estados afectivos más positivos y mayores niveles de autoestima. CONCLUSIÓN: Las estrategias que involucran R/E parecen ser prometedoras en el abordaje complementario de los pacientes con cáncer, ya Evidências ciEntíficas sobrE os bEnEfícios da rEligião/EspiritualidadE Em paciEntEs oncológicos que se asocian con una mejor salud mental, física y social y calidad de vida. Deben continuar los avances en la investigación, especialmente en relación con los mecanismos por los cuales la R/E impacta la salud.(AU)

Anger and substance abuse: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective: Conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate levels of anger among substance users compared to non-user controls and to analyze the possible association between anger and psychoactive substance use (PSU). Methods: The procedures of this review followed the Meta-Analyzes of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Four electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, BIREME, PsycINFO) were searched. Results: Twelve studies were included in the meta-analysis; 10 used the State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory (STAXI) anger trait subscale and two used the Buss-Perry-Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ) anger subscale. The sample included 2,294 users of psychoactive substances and 2,143 non-users, all male. The mean difference in anger scale scores between users and non-users was 2.151 (95%CI 1.166-3.134, p ≤ 0.00, inconsistency index [I2] = 98.83) standard deviations. Age and abstinence duration did not moderate the difference in anger between substance users and non-users. Conclusion: Users of psychoactive substances had elevated anger scores compared to non-users, which represents a high risk of relapse. It is suggested that PSU treatment programs include intensive anger management modules, focusing on factors such as dealing with daily stressors, family conflicts, frustrations, and problems.

Increase in serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels during early withdrawal in severe alcohol users

Abstract Introduction Changes in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) have been linked to the neuroadaptative consequences of chronic alcohol use and associated with disease severity and prognosis. Few studies have evaluated the influence of drug withdrawal and clinical and sociodemographic data on BDNF levels in severe alcohol users. Objectives Our goals were (1) to evaluate variation in BDNF levels during alcohol withdrawal and, (2) to assess the influence of putative confounding factors on BDNF levels. Methods Our sample consists of 62 men with alcohol use disorder undergoing a detoxification process. Serum BDNF levels were measured using a commercial sandwich-ELISA kit, at two points: before and after the detoxification period. Results We found an increase in BDNF levels during alcohol withdrawal (25.4±9.6 at admission vs. 29.8±10.2 ng/ml at discharge; p < 0.001), even after controlling for potential confounders (positive family history, number of days between blood sample collections, and age) (Generalized Estimating Equation: coefficient = -4.37, 95% confidence interval [95%CI] -6.3; -2.4; p < 0.001). Moreover, individuals who had first-degree relative with alcohol dependence had smaller increases in BDNF levels than individuals with no family history (14.8 [95%CI -5.3; 35.6] vs. 35.3 [95%CI 15.4; 74.8]; p = 0.005). Conclusions In summary, variation in BDNF levels seems to be influenced by withdrawal in severe alcohol users. A positive family history of alcohol dependence could also be a factor that influences variation in this biomarker.

Well-being at work, productivity, and coping with stress during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract This study aims to analyze the mechanisms through which the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic impacts on well-being at work and on productivity. The secondary objective is to identify stress management strategies for the work environment during the pandemic. This is an integrative review. Phase 1 consisted of searches of open access electronic databases (MEDLINE, SciELO, Bireme, and LILACS) for papers published in 2020 addressing mental health, work, and pandemics. Phase 2 consisted of selecting literature recommended by specialists in occupational psychiatry and positive psychology. These materials were read and critically analyzed. Forty references were included in the literature review. The articles reviewed were classified into the following categories: articles concerning work relationships in Brazil; articles describing the impact of pandemics on mental health and work; articles focusing on the work of health professionals during pandemics; articles about well-being at work; and papers proposing strategies to improve well-being and productivity and to promote mental health. The COVID-19 pandemic can have a significant impact on workers' mental health and productivity. Most professionals face a need to adapt to changes, which can decrease their feeling of well-being. Consequently, strategies to promote well-being and mental health in the work environment should be a priority. Work routines were modified after the COVID-19 pandemic set in and assessing these changes is essential to maintain workers' mental health. By so doing, it is possible to promote general well-being and post-traumatic recovery and reduce stress levels.

Problematic consumption of online pornography during the COVID-19 pandemic: clinical recommendations

Abstract The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic is one of the greatest contemporary challenges. Feelings of fear and uncertainty triggered by this pandemic have had noxious effects on people's mental health. This seems to have increased during quarantine and there is evidence of an intensification of reward-directed behavior. Nevertheless, there are few studies dealing with pornography consumption during this period. The aim of this manuscript is to contextualize this phenomenon during the pandemic and suggest some clinical recommendations on the matter.

Saúde mental dos profissionais da saúde na pandemia do coronavírus (Covid-19) / Mental health of health care professionals in the coronavirus pandemic (Covid-19)

Introdução: A pandemia do coronavírus (Covid-19) impôs desafios adicionais aos profissionais da saúde (PS), potencializando o risco de sofrimento psíquico. Objetivo: Avaliar o perfil sociodemográfico e a saúde mental de uma amostra de PS do Brasil durante a pandemia do Covid-19. Métodos: Estudo transversal online realizado durante 1 mês, entre maio e junho de 2020. Sintomas depressivos foram avaliados pelo Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) e o nível de burnout pelo Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI). Resultados: 1054 PS foram incluídos, sendo 34,5% médicos, 19,1% técnicos de enfermagem, 14,2% enfermeiros e 11,9% psicólogos. Mais da metade da amostra total apresentou escores ≥ 50 no domínio de burnout pessoal (PB) da CBI, indicativo de alto nível de burnout, e escores no PHQ-9 sugestivos de depressão clinicamente significativa, sendo estes índices mais elevados entre os técnicos de enfermagem (68,2% com PB ≥ 50 e 68,7% com PHQ-9 ≥ 9) e os PS da linha de frente (61,3% com PB ≥ 50 e 58% com PHQ-9 ≥ 9). Os técnicos de enfermagem apresentaram escores PB (58,4 ± 20,9) e do domínio de burnout relacionado ao trabalho (WB = 51,0 ± 21,1) superiores aos dos médicos (PB= 48,2 ± 19,9 e WB= 44,2 ± 19,1) e dos psicólogos (PB= 44,2 ± 17,4 e WB= 41,2 ± 16,7) p < 0,001. Conclusão: Os elevados níveis de burnout e depressão, mais preocupantes entre os técnicos de enfermagem, corroboram a vulnerabilidade dos PS ao sofrimento emocional no contexto do atendimento à Covid-19, demonstrando a urgência de intervenções específicas.(AU)

Introduction: The coronavirus pandemic (Covid-19) posed additional challenges to health care professionals (PS), increasing the risk of psychological distress. Objective: To evaluate the sociodemographic profile and mental health of a sample of PS in Brazil during the Covid-19 pandemic. Methods: Cross-sectional online study conducted during 1 month, between May and June 2020. Depressive symptoms were assessed by the Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) and the level of burnout by the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI). Results: 1054 PS were included, being 34.5% physicians, 19.1% nursing technicians, 14.2% nurses and 11.9% psychologists. More than half of the total sample had scores ≥ 50 in the the personal burnout (PB) domain of CBI, indicative of a high level of burnout, and PHQ-9 scores suggestive of clinically significant depression, these rates being higher among nursing technicians (68.2% with BP ≥ 50 and 68.7% with PHQ-9 ≥ 9) and frontline PS (61.3% with BP ≥ 50 and 58% with PHQ-9 ≥ 9). Nursing technicians had PB scores (58.4 ± 20.9) and work-related burnout domain scores (WB = 51.0 ± 21.1) higher than those of physicians (PB = 48.2 ± 19.9 and WB = 44.2 ± 19.1) and psychologists (PB = 44.2 ± 17.4 and WB = 41.2 ± 16.7) p <0.001. Conclusion: The high levels of burnout and depression, most worrying among nursing technicians, corroborate the vulnerability of the PS to emotional suffering in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic. Specific interventions are urgent.(AU)

Introducción: La pandemia de coronavirus (Covid-19) planteó desafíos adicionales a los profesionales de la salud (PS), aumentando el riesgo de angustia psicológica. Objetivo: Evaluar el perfil sociodemográfico y la salud mental de una muestra de PS en Brasil durante la pandemia Covid-19. Métodos: Estudio transversal en línea realizado durante 1 mes, entre mayo y junio de 2020. Los síntomas depresivos fueron evaluados por el Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) y el nivel de burnout por el Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI). Resultados: Se incluyeron 1054 PS, siendo 34,5% médicos, 19,1% técnicos de enfermería, 14,2% enfermeras y 11,9% psicólogos. Más de la mitad de la muestra total tuvo puntajes ≥ 50 en el dominio de Burnout personal (PB) de CBI, indicativo de un alto nivel de Burnout, y puntajes PHQ-9 sugestivos de depresión clínicamente significativa, siendo estas tasas más altas entre los técnicos de enfermería (68,2% con PB ≥ 50 y 68,7% con PHQ-9 ≥ 9) y el PS de primera línea (61,3% con PB ≥ 50 y 58% con PHQ-9 ≥ 9). Los técnicos de enfermería tuvieron puntuaciones de PB (58,4 ± 20,9) y el dominio de burnout laboral (WB = 51,0 ± 21,1) superior al de los médicos (PB = 48,2 ± 19,9 y WB = 44,2 ± 19,1) y psicólogos (PB = 44,2 ± 17,4 y WB = 41,2 ± 16,7) p <0,001. Conclusión: Los altos niveles de burnout y depresión, que son más preocupantes entre los técnicos de enfermería, corroboran la vulnerabilidad del PS al sufrimiento emocional en el contexto de la atención al Covid-19, demostrando la urgencia de intervenciones específicas.(AU)

Covid-19 and prisons: a reflection on public health and human rights / Covid-19 e prisões: Reflexões sobre saúde pública e direitos humanos / Covid-19 y las cárceles: Reflexión sobre la salud pública y los derechos humanos

Background and Objectives: The 2019 coronavirus pandemic (Covid-19) is a public health challenge. Identifying risk groups is essential for establishing prevention, screening, containment, and treatment strategies. In Brazil, prisons overcrowding and unhygienic conditions have been a historical problem that enables infectious diseases. This study sought to reflect upon incarcerated population vulnerability and present strategies to face the pandemic. Methods: This is a theoretical-reflective study based on the review of scientific publications and Covid-19 coping guidelines. Results: Prison populations are highly vulnerable to Sars-Cov-2 infections. Such vulnerability is aggravated by prisons' structural conditions, which accelerates diseases spread, especially respiratory illnesses, and hinders the adoption of preventive measures. Healthcare strategies aimed at this population are still scarce. Conclusion: Covid-19 outbreaks in prisons affect prisoners, staff, and family members, possibly leading the health system to an unprecedented collapse. Considering that, strategies to reduce coronavirus impact in prisons and on public health are urgent. Preventive measures of virus spread among this population must be supported by priority health measures, contingency protocols, and coordinated actions between the health and justice sectors.(AU)

Justificativa e Objetivos: A pandemia do coronavírus 2019 (Covid-19) é um problema de saúde pública desafiador. A identificação de grupos de risco é fundamental para o estabelecimento de estratégias de prevenção, rastreamento, contenção e tratamento. No Brasil, a superlotação e as condições insalubres das prisões são um problema histórico que facilita a disseminação de doenças. O objetivo deste estudo é refletir sobre a vulnerabilidade da população penitenciária e apresentar estratégias de enfrentamento à pandemia. Métodos: Estudo teórico-reflexivo construído a partir da revisão de publicações científicas e diretrizes de enfrentamento da Covid-19. Resultados: A PPL apresenta alta vulnerabilidade clínica para contaminação pelo Sars-Cov-2, o qual é agravado pelas condições estruturais das prisões que potencializam a disseminação de doenças, sobretudo respiratórias e dificultando o estabelecimento de medidas de prevenção. Surtos de Covid-19 em prisões afetam presos, funcionários e familiares e podem levar o sistema de saúde a um colapso sem precedentes. As estratégias de atenção a saúde desta população ainda são insuficientes. Conclusão: O estabelecimento de estratégias para reduzir o impacto do Covid-19 nas prisões e o seu reflexo na saúde pública é uma urgência. A prevenção da propagação do vírus nesta população deve ser apoiada por medidas prioritárias de saúde, implementação de protocolos de contingência e estabelecimento de ações coordenadas entre os setores de saúde e justiça.(AU)

Justificación y Objetivos: La pandemia de la enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (Covid-19) es un problema de salud pública desafiante. La identificación de los grupos de riesgo es esencial para establecer estrategias de prevención, detección, contención y tratamiento. En Brasil, el hacinamiento y las condiciones insalubres en las cárceles son un problema histórico que facilita la propagación de enfermedades. El objetivo de este estudio es reflexionar sobre la vulnerabilidad de la población carcelaria al Covid-19 y presentar estrategias de afrontamiento a la pandemia. Métodos: Estudio teórico-reflexivo con base en la revisión de publicaciones científicas y guías de afrontamiento del Covid-19. Resultados: La población penitenciaria presenta una alta vulnerabilidad clínica a la contaminación por Sars-Cov-2 agravado por las condiciones estructurales de las cárceles, lo que aumenta la propagación de enfermedades, especialmente respiratorias, y dificulta el establecimiento de medidas preventivas. Los brotes del Covid-19 en las cárceles afectan a los presos, al personal y a los miembros de la familia, y podrían llevar al sistema de salud a un colapso sin precedentes. Las estrategias sanitarias de esta población aún son insuficientes. Conclusión: Las estrategias para reducir el impacto del Covid-19 en las cárceles y su impacto en la salud pública son urgentes. La prevención de la propagación del virus en esta población debe apoyarse en medidas prioritarias de salud, la implementación de protocolos de contingencia y el establecimiento de acciones coordinadas entre los sectores de salud y justicia.(AU)

Aspectos do luto em familiares de mortos em decorrência da Covid-19 / Aspects of grief in family members of the dead as a result of Covid-19

A pandemia de Covid-19 tem gerado efeitos nocivos na saúde mental da população. Isso pode ser especialmente preocupante em pessoas que perderam familiares em decorrência da doença. Este estudo teve como objetivo compreender as particularidades do processo de luto diante da crise ocasionada pela Covid-19. Trata-se de uma pesquisa documental qualitativa que analisou reportagens publicadas entre março e abril de 2020 - período posterior a primeira morte registrada no Brasil - em cinco mídias de grande circulação. Os materiais foram selecionados por dois pesquisadores, e a análise de conteúdo foi realizada pelo método de Bardin. Cinco categorias de análise foram identificadas: Desafios de uma experiência nova e urgente, preconceito decorrente do contato com doentes, sentimentos, formas de enfrentamento e rituais funerários. Manifestações de revolta diante da minimização da doença por autoridades foram frequentes, bem como queixas relacionadas a organização do sistema de saúde, inexistência de fluxos e desinformação dos profissionais. Diante da disseminação de Fake News, foram observados relatos de hostilizações em redes sociais e o afastamento de pessoas conhecidas, gerando solidão. O medo de estar contaminado e de transmitir para outras pessoas também foi recorrente. Ainda, notou-se que a impossibilidade de acompanhar o familiar morto durante a internação e as limitações dos rituais foram associados a culpa e tristeza. É possível que a experiência do luto seja intensificada diante das peculiaridades que permeiam o processo de morte decorrente da Covid-19, sobretudo nos primeiros meses da pandemia. Tendo em vista que os efeitos na saúde mental da população podem ser mais duradouros do que a pandemia, é fundamental que investigações sejam realizadas e estratégias de suporte desenvolvidas.(AU)

The Covid-19 pandemic has had harmful effects on the populations mental health. This can be worrisome in people who have lost family members to Covid-19. This study aims to understand the particularities of the mourning process during the crisis caused by Covid-19. This is a qualitative documentary research that analyzed reports published between March and April 2020 - a period after the first recorded death in Brazil - in five large-circulation media. The materials were selected by two researchers, and content analysis was performed using the Bardin method. Five categories of analysis were identified: Challenges of a new and urgent experience, prejudice resulting from contact with patients, feelings, forms of confrontation and funeral rituals. Manifestations of anger at the authorities minimization of the disease were frequent, as well as complaints related to the organization of the health system, lack of flows and lack of information from professionals. Faced with the spread of Fake News, reports of harassment on social networks and the removal of known people were observed, generating loneliness. The fear of being contaminated and of transmitting it to other people was also recurrent. Furthermore, it was noted that the impossibility of accompanying the deceased family member during hospitalization and the limitations of the rituals were associated with guilt and sadness. It is possible that the experience of grief is intensified given the peculiarities that permeate the process of death resulting from Covid-19, especially in the first months of the pandemic. Considering that the effects on the populations mental health can be more lasting than the pandemic, it is essential that investigations are carried out and support strategies developed.(AU)

La pandemia de Covid-19 ha tenido efectos nocivos en la salud mental de la población. Esto puede ser preocupante en personas que han perdido a familiares a causa de Covid-19. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo comprender las particularidades del proceso de duelo ante la crisis provocada por el Covid-19. Se trata de uma investigación documental cualitativa que analizó informes publicados entre marzo y abril de 2020, un período posterior a la primera muerte registrada en Brasil. Los materiales fueron seleccionados y el análisis de contenido se realizó mediante el método Bardin. Se identificaron cinco categorías de análisis: Desafíos de una experiência nueva y urgente, Prejuicios derivados del contacto con los pacientes, Sentimientos, Formas de enfrentamiento y Ritos funerarios. Fueron frecuentes las manifestaciones de enfado por la minimización de la enfermedad por las autoridades, así como las quejas relacionadas con el sistema de salud, la falta de flujos y la falta de información por parte de los profesionales. Ante la difusión de Fake News, se observaron denuncias de hostigamiento en redes sociales y el alejamiento de personas conocidas, generando soledad. Además, se observó que la imposibilidad de acompañar al familiar fallecido durante la hospitalización y las limitaciones de los rituales se asociaron con la culpa y la tristeza. Es posible que la experiencia del duelo se intensifique dadas las peculiaridades que permean el proceso de muerte resultante del Covid-19, especialmente en los primeros meses de la pandemia. Considerando que los efectos en la salud mental de la población pueden ser más duraderos que la pandemia, es fundamental que se realicen investigaciones y se desarrollen estrategias de apoyo.(AU)