La aplicación del saber médico. Hipertensión y daño cognitivo

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Introduction: High blood pressure (HBP) is the leading cause of death from cardiovascular disease. Despite the advances, the percentage of undiagnosed and untreated hypertensive patients is 58.4%. The evaluation of cognitive damage in HBP focuses on preventing stroke, while functional damage is ignored. This inadequate management may be multifactorial. The objective was to analyze the opinions that doctors have about the relationship between high blood pressure and cognitive damage. Methodology: Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study developed in the period between August 2020 and August 2023. Analysis of data obtained from a self-administered, anonymous and voluntary questionnaire. Revealing information on the professional profile, knowledge of HBP, its link with cognitive impairment (CD), diagnosis and treatment. Results: 222 professionals were included, 215 (96.8%) agree with the existence of a link between HBP and other cardiovascular risk factors in CD, and 218 (98.1%) acknowledge assisting patients at risk of suffering from CD. The CD evaluation is carried out in selected cases by 132 (59.4%) participants and 59 (26.7%) always do it. Of those who perform evaluation, 103 (54%) use the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), 10 (5.2%) use the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and 9 (4.7%) use the Clock Drawing Test. Regarding the decrease in blood pressure in elderly patients and the link with risk of CD: 54 (24.3%) do not recognize risk and 65 (29.2%) recognize a moderate-high risk. In reference to the implication of the treatment of cardiovascular disease and CD: 217 (97.7%) recognized a beneficial effect. Discussion: Given the recognition of the link between HBP and CD, it would be expected that CD would be investigated in the vast majority, however only 26.7% always evaluate it. There is no consensus on the method, the MMSE being the most used, with a low application of the MoCA test and/or Clock Drawing Test, the latter being the ones that evaluate executive function, mostly altered in CD linked to HBP. Although the treatment of cardiovascular disease is recognized as beneficial with respect to CD, the control of HBP in older adults is considered risky. A diagnosis is made of a situation where a disparity is evident between what one recognizes as knowing and what one claims to do. Conclusions: The role of vascular disease in functional brain damage is recognized, considering it necessary to know the cognitive status of patients, however there is a low application of screening tests that evaluate executive function. In this context, a gap between medical knowledge and practice is shown.

Introdução: A hipertensão arterial (HA) é a principal causa de morte por doenças cardiovasculares. Apesar dos avanços, o percentual de hipertensos não diagnosticados e não tratados é de 58,4%. A avaliação do dano cognitivo na hipertensão concentra-se na prevenção do acidente vascular cerebral, enquanto o dano funcional é ignorado. Esse manejo inadequado pode ser multifatorial. É objetivo fue analisar a opinião dos médicos sobre a relação entre hipertensão arterial e danos cognitivos. Metodologia: Estudo observacional, descritivo, transversal desenvolvido no período entre agosto de 2020 e agosto de 2023. Análise de dados obtidos a partir de questionário autoaplicável, anônimo e voluntário. Revelar informações sobre o perfil profissional, conhecimento sobre a HA, sua ligação com o comprometimento cognitivo (DC), diagnóstico e tratamento. Resultados: Foram incluídos 222 profissionais, 215 (96,8%) concordam com a existência de ligação entre hipertensão e outros fatores de risco cardiovascular na DC e 218 (98,1%) reconhecem ajudar pacientes com risco de sofrer de D.C. A avaliação da DC é realizada em casos selecionados por 132 (59,4%) participantes e 59 (26,7%) a fazem sempre. Dos que realizam avaliação, 103 (54%) utilizam o Mini Exame do Estado Mental (MEEM), 10 (5,2%) utilizam a Avaliação Cognitiva de Montreal (MoCA) e 9 (4,7%) utilizam o Clock Drawing Test. Em relação à diminuição da pressão arterial em pacientes idosos e a ligação com o risco de DC: 54 (24,3%) não reconhecem risco e 65 (29,2%) reconhecem risco moderado-alto. Em referência à implicação do tratamento de doenças cardiovasculares e DC: 217 (97,7%) reconheceram o efeito benéfico. Discussão: Dado o reconhecimento da ligação entre hipertensão e DC, seria de esperar que a DC fosse investigada na grande maioria, no entanto apenas 26,7% sempre a avaliam. Não há consenso sobre o método, sendo o MEEM o mais utilizado, com baixa aplicação do teste MoCA e/ou Clock Drawing Test, sendo estes últimos os que avaliam a função executiva, majoritariamente alterada nos DC vinculados à HA. Embora o tratamento das doenças cardiovasculares seja reconhecido como benéfico em relação à DC, o controle da HA em idosos é considerado arriscado. É feito um diagnóstico de uma situação em que é evidente uma disparidade entre o que se reconhece como saber e o que se afirma fazer. Conclusões: O papel da doença vascular no dano cerebral funcional é reconhecido, considerando-se necessário conhecer o estado cognitivo dos pacientes, porém há baixa aplicação de testes de triagem que avaliam a função executiva. Nesse contexto, evidencia-se uma lacuna entre o conhecimento e a prática médica.

Rastreamento da síndrome metabólica em participantesdo programa Universidade Aberta da Terceira Idade / Metabolic syndrome screening in the participantsat the Open University of the Third Age

Hábitos alimentares inadequados, sedentarismo e a maior expectativa de vida da população contribuem significativamente para a prevalência da síndrome metabólica. Essa doença predispõe uma pessoa a desenvolver diabetes mellitus tipo 2 e doenças cardiovasculares, as quais têm um amplo impacto na saúde pública, induzindo sobrecarga no sistema de saúde e reduzindo a qualidade de vida dos indivíduos afetados. A síndrome metabólica é uma doença multifatorial e está relacionada ao processo de envelhecimento, contudo, ainda há uma lacuna significativa, em termos de estudos, sobre a prevalência da condição em populações idosas. Nesse contexto, o presente estudo objetivou rastrear a prevalência da síndrome metabólica em participantes da Universidade Aberta da Terceira Idade (UNATI), localizada em Francisco Beltrão, Paraná. Os critérios diagnósticos de síndrome metabólica abordados nesta pesquisa incluem: circunferência abdominal ≥ 90 cm para homens e ≥ 80 cm para mulheres, triglicerídeos ≥ 150 mg/dL, HDL ≤ 40 mg/dL para homens e ≤ 50 mg/dL para mulheres, pressão arterial sistólica ≥ 130 mmHg e/ou pressão arterial diastólica ≥ 85 mmHg ou estar em farmacoterapia para hipertensão, além de glicemia de jejum ≥ 100 mg/dL ou estar em tratamento farmacológico para diabetes. Um total de 44 idosos foram avaliados, apresentando uma média de idade de 66,9 ± 7,1 anos, com uma predominância de mulheres (88%). Os resultados revelaram uma prevalência alarmante de síndrome metabólica, atingindo 36,4% da amostra estudada. Além disso, observou-se uma alta prevalência de condições associadas, como hipertensão arterial (67,2%), sobrepeso (58,6%) e obesidade visceral (31%). Esses achados ressaltam a importância da implementação de medidas preventivas direcionadas à promoção da qualidade de vida saudável e ao controle dos fatores de risco metabólicos.

Inadequate dietary habits, sedentary lifestyle, and increased life expectancy significantly contribute to the prevalence of metabolic syndrome. This condition predisposes an individual to develop type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases, which have a broad impact on public health, inducing a burden on the healthcare system and reducing the quality of life of affected individuals. Metabolic syndrome is a multifactorial disease and is related to the aging process; however, there is still a significant gap in terms of studies on the prevalence of the condition in elderly populations. In this context, this study aimed to screen the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in participants of the Open University for the Third Age (UNATI), located in Francisco Beltrão, Paraná. The diagnostic criteria for metabolic syndrome addressed in this research include: abdominal circumference ≥ 90 cm for men and ≥ 80 cm for women, triglycerides ≥ 150 mg/dL, HDL ≤ 40 mg/dL for men and ≤ 50 mg/dL for women, systolic blood pressure ≥ 130 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 85 mmHg or being on pharmacotherapy for hypertension, in addition to fasting glucose ≥ 100 mg/dL or being on pharmacological treatment for diabetes. A total of 44 elderly individuals were evaluated, with a mean age of 66.9 ± 7.1 years, predominantly women (88%). The results revealed an alarming prevalence of metabolic syndrome, affecting 36.4% of the studied sample. Furthermore, a high prevalence of associated conditions was observed, such as arterial hypertension (67.2%), overweight (58.6%), and visceral obesity (31%). These findings underscore the importance of implementing preventive measures aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and controlling metabolic risk factors.

Prevalencia de hipertirotropinemia neonatal comoindicador de deficiencia de yodo en la provincia de La Pampa: un análisis epidemiológico / Prevalence of high neonatal thyroid stimulating hormone levels as an indicator of iodine deficiency in the province of La Pampa: An epidemiological analysis

Introducción. El yodo desempeña un rol fundamental en el metabolismo, el crecimiento y el desarrollo humano. Durante el embarazo y la infancia, la demanda de este micronutriente aumenta considerablemente. La tirotropinemia neonatal (TSHn) aumentada, definida como TSHn ≥5 mUI/l, es un marcador que señala la deficiencia de yodo en una población cuando su prevalencia supera el 3 %. Objetivo. Determinar la prevalencia de TSHn ≥ 5 en La Pampa durante el período 2021-2022, analizar su correlación con diferentes variables y compararla con datos de una cohorte histórica. Población y métodos. Estudio transversal, de diseño descriptivo-analítico, sobre una población de neonatos nacidos en las cinco zonas sanitarias de la provincia de La Pampa durante los años 2021 y 2022. Resultados. De los 5778 neonatos evaluados, el 9,6 % presentó niveles de TSHn ≥5 mUI/l. El 70,4 % de estas mediciones fueron realizadas después del tercer día de vida. No se observaron diferencias significativas en la frecuencia de niveles elevados de TSHn según el año de nacimiento, peso al nacer o días hasta la extracción. Se registró una mayor prevalencia en el sexo masculino (10,6 % versus 8,5 %; p = 0,007) y entre los neonatos nacidos a término (9,8 % versus 6,6 %; p = 0,02). La prevalencia de hipertirotropinemia fue superior a la observada en una cohorte de 2001-2002. Conclusiones. La prevalencia de hipertirotropinemia neonatal en La Pampa durante los años 2021 y 2022 fue del 9,6 %, lo que indica un estado de deficiencia leve de yodo en la provincia, superior al reportado hace dos décadas.

Introduction. Iodine plays a key role in human metabolism, growth, and development. During pregnancy and childhood, the demand for this micronutrient increases notably. Increased neonatal thyroid stimulating hormone (nTSH) levels, defined as nTSH ≥ 5 mIUL, are a marker of iodine deficiency in a population if its prevalence is higher than 3%.Objective. To establish the prevalence of nTSH ≥ 5 in La Pampa in the 2021­2022 period, analyze its correlation with different variables, and compare it with data from a historical cohort.Population and methods. Cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical study in a population of newborn infants born in the 5 health regions of the province of La Pampa in 2021 and 2022. Results. Of  the  5778  assessed  newborn  infants,  9.6%  had  nTSH  levels  ≥  5  mIU/L. It was reported that 70.4% of these measurements were done after the third day of life. No significant differences were observed in the frequency of high nTSH levels by year of birth, birth weight, or days until samplecollection.A higher prevalence was observed among male infants (10.6% versus 8.5%; p = 0.007) and term infants (9.8% versus 6.6%; p = 0.02). The prevalence of high TSH levels was superior to that observed in the 2001­2002 cohort. Conclusions. The  prevalence of high nTSH levels in La Pampa during 2021 and 2022 was 9.6%, suggesting the presence of mild iodine deficiency in the population of this province, higher that what  had been reported 2 decades ago.

Antibacterial activity of Kemloko fruit ethanol extract (Phyllanthus emblica L.) against Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA bacteria

Background: Indonesia is a tropical country, so the prevalence of infectious diseases caused by bacteria remains high. On the other hand, the high use of antibacterial ingredients in Indonesia causes bacterial resistance to existing antibacterial drugs. One of the herbal plants that some people widely use is Kemloko fruit. This study aimed to determine the activity of Kemloko fruit (Phyllanthus emblica L.) ethanol extract against the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteria. Methods: Simplicia of Kemloko fruit were tested for secondary metabolites and characterization test of the simplicia. The antibacterial activity test was carried out using the diffusion method, where the disc paper was immersed in the test solution with the ratio of the test concentration. Results: The results of phytochemical screening showed that the secondary metabolite compounds of Kemloko fruit are alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, tannins, saponins, and glycosides. Antibacterial activity of ethanol extract of Kemloko fruit with agar diffusion method effectively inhibits S. aureus bacteria, namely at a concentration of 80 mg/ml, the inhibition zone is 14.1 mm, and at a concentration of 100 mg/ml, MRSA bacteria obtained an inhibition zone of 14.3 mm. Conclusions: The ethanol extract inhibits the growth of S. aureus and MRSA.

The study of diagnostic value of pap smear comparing with visual inspection of cervix after acetic acid application in detecting premalignant lesions of cervix

Background: Objective of the study was to compare the effectiveness of VIA and pap smear for screening of premalignant lesions of cervix and to compare the performance of VIA used alone and combined with pap smear for screening of premalignant lesions of cervix.Methods: VIA and Pap smear were performed in 260 patients attending routine gynaecology OPD. Positive cases of either or both screening tests were subjected to colposcopy and biopsy if indicated. The reports of histopathology were correlated with the pap smear and VIA findings and thereby sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values of each of the screening methods were calculated and results were analysed.Results: 260 patients were screened for premalignant lesions of cervix by VIA and pap smear both, 37 of 260 patients, (14.2%) were VIA positive, 30 of 260 patients (11.5%) were pap smear positive, 20 of 260 patients (7.69%) were positive for VIA as well as pap smear, 25 of 260 patients (9.6%) were confirmed of premalignant lesions on histopathology, 24 patients were diagnosed CIN and one patient was diagnosed with CIS.Conclusions: VIA has lower sensitivity and specificity compared to Pap smear but the results are comparable. Both the tests are fairly accurate. A combination of VIA and Pap smear increased the sensitivity and specificity to 100%.

Inspección visual con ácido acético y el control del cáncer de cuello uterino en atención primaria / Visual inspection with acetic acid and the control of cervical cancer in primary care

Resumen Introducción : La inspección visual con ácido acé tico (IVAA) es una alternativa primaria para mer mar la incidencia y mortalidad por cáncer de cuello uterino (CaCu). El objetivo del estudio es conocer la proporción de mujeres de 30 a 49 años que usaron el test de IVAA en los últimos dos años y los factores asociados con el uso de la prueba, en el ámbito de la atención primaria. Métodos : Estudio transversal y multicéntrico, partici paron 706 mujeres de 30 a 49 años, usuarias de centros de atención primaria en una región del Perú. La variable dependiente fue el uso del test de IVAA, en los últimos dos años y las independientes los factores sociodemo gráficos, sociosanitarios, de información y actitud. Resultados : La proporción de mujeres que usaron el test de IVAA, fue del 30.6%. Se asociaron con mayor uso de la prueba, el área de residencia urbana, haber recibido recomendación para realizarse la IVAA, sentir preocupación por adquirir CaCu, haber oído hablar del CaCu y del virus del papiloma humano, el considerar tener mayor o igual probabilidad de desarrollar CaCu respecto a mujeres de su edad y con menor uso de la prueba, el proceder de la sierra y considerar riesgoso realizarse la IVAA. Conclusión : El programa de tamizaje del CaCu, me diante IVAA no estaría logrando el impacto deseado. Se requiere fortalecer estrategias e intervenciones en atención primaria, para mejorar las conductas y tasas del cribado.

Abstract Introduction : Visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) is a primary alternative to reduce cervical cancer (CaCu) incidence and mortality. The study aimed to determine the proportion of women aged 30-49 years who used VIA in the last two years and the factors associated with the use of the test in the primary care setting. Methods : Cross-sectional, multicenter study. Seven hundred and six women aged 30 to 49 years partici pated, users of primary health care centers in a region of Peru. The dependent variable was the use of the VIA test in the last two years and the independent variables were sociodemographic, socio-health, information and attitudinal factors. Results : The proportion of women who used the VIA test was 30.6%. The following factors were associated with greater use of the test: urban area of residence, having received a recommendation for VIA, feeling worried about acquiring CaCu, having heard about CaCu and the human papilloma virus. Also, considering having a greater or equal probability of developing CaCu compared to women of the same age, and with lower use of the test, coming from the highlands and considering it risky to undergo VIA. Conclusion : The VIA screening program for CaCu would not be achieving the desired impact. There is a need to strengthen strategies and interventions in primary care to improve screening behaviors and rates.

Prevalence of lesions and oral mucosal normal variations in an elderly population in Costa Rica / Prevalencia de lesiones y variaciones de lo normal en la mucosa oral en una población de adultos mayores de Costa Rica

Abstract To establish the prevalence of oral mucosal lesions and normal variations in a population of older adults. This observational study was conducted from 2015 to 2016 and involved 156 participants from Los Guido (San José, Costa Rica). The participants' sociodemographic information, risk factors, comorbidity, and clinical examination were evaluated and analyzed descriptively and qualitatively. Findings in oral mucosa were found to preferentially affect women (n=111; 71%) and individuals between the ages of 60 and 69 years (n=65; 42%), having smoking as a risk factor (n=67; 43%), and suffering from arterial hypertension (n=101; 65%). Intraoral findings were mainly presented together with variations from normal and pathology (n=71; 46%), predominantly one variation from normal (n=67; 33%) and one pathology (n=51; 43%). The most prevalent normal variations were the saburral tongue, lingual varicose veins, and cryptic tonsils. Infectious diseases (n=33; 21%), potentially malignant disorders (n=30; 19%), and physical and chemical injuries (n=18; 12%) were the most prevalent groups. The four most predominant lesions were prosthetic stomatitis, actinic cheilitis, frictional keratosis, and atrophic glossitis. The differences in pathological groups were not statistically significant (p=0.392) when comparing the frequency ratio by sex. Variations of the normal anatomy are the predominant ones, the saburral tongue being the most prevalent individually; among the pathologies, the most remarkable group was the infectious diseases, and prosthetic stomatitis was the most frequent. The information about this subject in Costa Rica is limited. So it is important to conduct more studies that contribute to the oral health of the elderly population in this area.

Resumen Establecer la prevalencia de lesiones de la mucosa oral y variaciones de lo normal en una población de adultos mayores. Estudio observacional en 156 participantes de Los Guido (San José, Costa Rica) del 2015 a 2016. Se evaluaron y analizaron de forma descriptiva y cualitativa información sociodemográfica, factores de riesgo, comorbilidad y exploración clínica. Los hallazgos en mucosa oral afectaron preferentemente a las mujeres (n=111; 71%), el rango de edad entre 60 y 69 años (n=65; 42%) y con el tabaco como factor de riesgo (n=67; 43%) e hipertensión arterial (n=101; 65%). Los hallazgos intraorales se presentaron preferentemente de forma conjunta variaciones de lo normal y patologías (n=71; 46%), predominantemente una variación de lo normal (n=67; 33%) y una patología (n=51; 43%). Las variaciones de lo normal más prevalentes fueron lengua saburral, várices linguales y amígdalas criptodónticas. Las enfermedades infecciosas (n=33; 21%), los desórdenes potencialmente malignos (n=30; 19 %) e injurias físicas y químicas (n=18; 12%) fueron los grupos más prevalentes. Las cuatro lesiones más predominantes fueron estomatitis protésica, queilitis actínica, queratosis friccional y glositis atrófica. No hubo diferencia estadísticamente significativa (p=0.392) al comparar la proporción de frecuencia por sexo. Las variaciones de la anatomía normal predominaron; siendo en forma individual la lengua saburral la más frecuente; de las patologías destacaron las enfermedades infecciosas principalmente la estomatitis protésica. Existe poca información en esta área en Costa Rica, es importante generar más estudios que permitan contribuir con la salud oral de la población adulta mayor.

A study on household medicine wastage and disposal practices with screening of water samples for antibiotic presence in a South Indian district

Background: Pharmaceuticals in the environment is known since last two decades. As hospitals and pharma industries, household medicines also need proper disposal otherwise they will gradually find their way into environment. So, we did a survey of residents in major metro city to understand their medicine wastage as well as disposal practices. Methods: Pharmaceuticals in the environment is known since last two decades. As hospitals and pharma industries, household medicines also need proper disposal otherwise they will gradually find their way into environment. So, we did a survey of residents in major metro city to understand their medicine wastage as well as disposal practices. Results: The water samples screened for antibiotic presence were all negative from 10 locations. A total population of 749 people, from 165 houses were included in the study. Leftover medicines were found in 75.8% houses, of which 5.36% houses had leftover antibiotics. Garbage disposal (58.2%) was the most commonly observed method of medicine disposal. Good attitude towards proper antibiotic disposal was independently significant with higher education (OR=2.5, 95% CI= 1.05-6.17), employment (OR=2.1, 95% CI= 1.05-4.3), and upper middle-class families (OR=2.4, 95% CI= 1.08-5.21). Conclusions: Lack of proper guidelines for household medicine disposal across the country is reflected in our community too. Although this study could not detect antibiotics in the canal water, the emerging resistance pattern across the state reflects it could be there. Therefore, immediate action on medicine waste collections needs to be implemented.

From diagnosis to treatment: a holistic approach to intraepithelial cervical disease

Cervical cancer remains a significant cause of mortality among women worldwide. Screening methods play a crucial role in identifying individuals with cervical pre-cancerous lesions, allowing for timely intervention to prevent progression to invasive disease. Treatment modalities for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) are effective, straightforward, and safe. The choice between ablative techniques (such as cryotherapy or thermal ablation) and excisional techniques (like large loop excision or cold knife conization) depends on lesion characteristics and transformation zone type. Ablative techniques are particularly suitable for low-resource settings due to their simplicity, low complication rates, and cost-effectiveness. In areas where access to colposcopy and histopathology services is limited, strategies such as visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) followed by immediate ablative treatment for VIA-positive individuals are recommended by the World Health Organization. This approach not only prevents the progression of high-grade CIN but also ensures high compliance among screen-positive individuals. Overall, effective screening and treatment strategies are essential in reducing the burden of cervical preinvasive lesions and preventing the development of cervical cancer.

The prevalence of congenital heart disease in newborn detected by pulse oximeter screening test at 24 hours of birth and its correlation with clinical findings and ECHO

Background: Detecting congenital heart disease (CHD) early is crucial for better outcomes, but most newborns show no symptoms. Newborn screening for CHD can identify such cases preventing serious consequences. This study aims to determine CHD prevalence and evaluate the effectiveness of pulse oximeter screening and clinical examination, correlating them with echocardiography findings.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to screen for CHD in all newborns born in our institution over a period of 3 months. A sample of 660 newborns were screened by pulse oximeter screening and clinical examination after random sampling.Results: Comparison of baseline data like age distribution in mothers, gender and gestational age were comparable between newborns with CHD and those without CHD. A total of 8 CHDs were picked up after screening 660 newborns screened during a period of 3 months. CHDs that were picked up included hypoplastic left heart syndrome, pulmonary atresia, bicuspid aortic valve, transposition of great arteries, coarctation of the aorta, and other complex CHDs. It was found that either clinical examination or pulse oximeter screening has higher sensitivity than pulse oximetry screening or clinical examination alone.Conclusions: For identification of a CHD in newborns after 24 hours of birth the order of preference for screening based on sensitivity is as follows-either pulse oximeter screening or clinical examination >clinical examination >pulse oximeter screening >pulse oximeter screening and clinical examination.

Bowel screening: a mini literature review

Bowel cancer is a global health issue with more than 500.000 yearly new cases and a 12.6% mortality of all cancer cases. Studies suggest the financial burden of bowel cancer in Europe in 2015 was estimated at 19.1 billion Euros. Effective bowel screening promotes prevention and early detection of bowel cancer. There is a variation in bowel screening uptake across the globe, trials and pilot studies in the UK suggest uptake is around 50-60% in the UK, compared to much lower uptake in lower income countries. This mini literature review aims to shed some light on the magnitude of the problem, global variations in screening uptake, barriers to bowel screening uptake and explore ways to improve bowel screening uptake. Personal beliefs, social taboo and lack of knowledge are some of the barriers identified in this review, healthcare professionals have a pivotal role in opportunistic health promotion and encouraging patients to utilize bowel screening services, furthermore health educational campaigns targeting school children, students and other groups in the wider community may help increase bowel cancer awareness and the importance of bowel screening. A national recall system for bowel screening is an important step in improving uptake in low-income countries who have not achieved such a service yet.

Phytochemical Composition, Antibacterial Activities against Multi-Resistant Strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii of the Bark Extract of Ficus platyphylla Dell. Holl.

Ficus platyphylla Ficus platyphylla belongs to the Moraceae family which contains nearly 1400 species divided into around forty genera. It is used to manage several diseases in folklore medicine. This study focused on the phytochemical screening and evaluation of the antibacterial potential against Pseudomona aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii of hydroethanolic extract from Ficus platyphylla (FP) bark. Phytochemical and antibacterial activity were carried out according to the literature procedure. Qualitative analyses of FP revealed the presence polyphenols, flavonoids, coumarins, tannins, alkaloids, sterols and terpenes. Quantitative analysis by spectrophotometry showed a phenolic compound content to be 0.878 � 0.02 mg EAG/g DM. The flavonoids content was 0.084 � 0.02 mg EQ/g DM, while flavonic aglycones, anthocyanins and condensed tannins were 0.014 mg EQ/g DM, 0.018 mg EQ/g DM and 0.189 mg EC/g DM, respectively. In vivo antibacterial activity showed that (FP) was ineffective against six (06) multi-resistant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii.

Breast self-examination: knowledge, awareness, and practices among females of reproductive age group

Background: Breast cancer occurs in an observable organ, thus awareness regarding its symptoms can help in its early detection and treatment. Although breast self-examination (BSE) is an old technique, evidence reveals many of females are not aware regarding this, and those with knowledge about breast cancer examination either fail to practice it or do so incorrectly. Methods: It was a cross-sectional exploratory survey. 505 females attending outpatient department (OPD) at selected tertiary care hospital were recruited in the study using simple random sampling. Each participant was given a set of validated questionnaires to answer. The questionnaire was designed to obtain information regarding socio demographic data, knowledge, awareness, and practice regarding BSE. All data were coded, validated, and analyzed utilizing both descriptive and inferential statistics techniques. Results: The study revealed that the largest proportion (42.06%) of subjects fell within the age range of 20-30 years. Total mean score of knowledge and awareness regarding breast self-examination was 9.68±3.5. Maximum 58.42% of the subjects had average knowledge and awareness followed by 23.96% having good knowledge and awareness and least (17.62%) had poor knowledge and awareness regarding BSE. Almost half i.e., 50.49% (255) of participants reported to perform BSE and 49.51% of participants had never practiced BSE. Conclusions: The study revealed that while participants had average knowledge levels, they showed low involvement in routine BSE. This underscores the need for educational interventions to promote BSE practices, identify risk factors and warning signs, and encourage early-stage management of breast cancer, ultimately contributing to primary prevention in healthcare.

Design of molecular inhibitors against the NuoC protein of Mycobacterium tuberculosis

One of the most serious medical conditions is tuberculosis (TB). In Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the NADH-quinone oxidoreductase subunit C (NuoC) protein is a member of the NADH dehydrogenase family and is essential to the electron transport chain, ATP generation, and energy production. One possible pharmacological target for finding inhibitors is the Nuoc protein. Computational approaches are used to identify the 3D structural characteristics of the Nuoc protein, and several validation methods are used to verify the results. Using several ligand databases, virtual screening tests surrounding the active site were carried out to find drug-like molecules. The study found that the amino acid residues that are important in drug-target interactions are ARG98, ARG75 (basic), ASP99, ASP189, ASP98 (acidic), LEU101, LEU194 (nonpolar neutral), THR180 (polar neutral), GLU177 (polar neutral), TYR181 (polar neutral), PRO102, PRO192 (nonpolar neutral), and HIS191 (basic). The findings demonstrate the ligand molecules’ drug-like ability to inhibit NuoC proteins. The structural data may be used to develop novel therapeutic scaffolds for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB), in conjunction with information on the active site and the chosen ligand molecules.

Assessment of anemia in cases of acute myocardial infarction in a tertiary care hospital in central India

Background: Anemia is a known risk factor for ischemic heart disease and heart failure. It is also associated with increased mortality in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients. The study aimed to determine the anemia status of AMI patients and educate them on anemia and its impact on health. Methods: This was cross-sectional study conducted among 100 AMI patients admitted to ICCU of Hamidia hospital, Bhopal over 2 months. Haemoglobin levels were recorded and patients classified as non-anemic, mildly, moderately or severely anemic based on WHO criteria. Patients' sociodemographic profile and risk factors also collected. Results: Of the 100 patients (mean age 55.6 years), 76% were males. 88% patients had anemia-74% mild, 13% moderate and 1% severe. The 30-45 years age group reported the highest frequency of mild anemia cases (20 out of 31). Absence of anemia was highest among the younger <30 years group (9 out of 31). Anemia was higher in females, Patient with vegetarian diet had comparatively more anemia than the patient consuming mixed diet. Conclusions: A high prevalence of anemia was found among AMI patients. Counselling can help improve health by increasing awareness of anemia management. Screening AMI patients for anemia and therapeutic interventions were recommended.

Cribado prenatal de aneuploidías mediante análisis de ácido desoxirribonucleíco libre total circulante en plasma materno. Revisión narrativa / Prenatal screening for aneuploidies by analysis of circulating total free deoxyribonucleic acid in maternal plasma. Narrative review

La prueba prenatal no invasiva es un método de cribado de aneuploidías fetales y de resultar con riesgo alto debe ser confirmado a través de prueba genética diagnóstica. Es la prueba de detección más sensible y específica para las aneuploidías fetales comunes y minimiza la realización de técnicas invasivas, solo para las gestantes con riesgo elevado. Se debe realizar asesoramiento genético pre- y poscribado. Este estudio tiene como objetivo describir los fundamentos básicos de la prueba prenatal no invasiva mediante el análisis del ácido desoxirribonucleíco libre circulante en plasma materno para cribado de aneuploidías, y de los métodos primordiales y avances en biología molecular incluyendo las tecnologías de secuenciación de nueva generación, que lo han facilitado, considerando sus beneficios y limitaciones al aplicarla en la práctica clínica, en este campo que cambia con tanta rapidez(AU)

The non-invasive prenatal test is a screening method for fetal aneuploidies and if the result is at high risk, it must be confirmed through diagnostic genetic test. It is the most sensitive and specific detection test for common fetal aneuploidies and minimizes the use of invasive techniques, only for pregnant women at high risk. Genetic counseling should be performed before and after screening. This study aims to describe the basic fundamentals of non-invasive prenatal testing by analyzing free circulating deoxyribonucleic acid in maternal plasma for aneuploidy screening, and the primary methods and advances in molecular biology, including next-generation sequencing technologies, which have facilitated it, considering its benefits and limitations when applying it in clinical practice, in this rapidly changing field(AU)

Prevalência e fatores associados à realização dos exames de triagem neonatal no Brasil: comparação da PNS 2013 e 2019 / Prevalence of neonatal screening and associated factors in Brazil: a comparison of the 2013 and 2019 National Health Surveys

Resumo Analisou-se a prevalência e fatores associados à realização da Triagem Neonatal Completa (TNC) entre crianças (<2 anos de idade) no Brasil incluídas na Pesquisa Nacional Saúde 2013 (n=4.442) e 2019 (n=5.643). Estudo transversal comparou as estimativas de prevalência e intervalos de confiança de 95% (IC95%) da TNC (testes do olhinho, orelhinha e pezinho). Diferenças foram consideradas estatisticamente significante ao nível de 5%. Regressões de Poisson bruta e ajustada foram realizadas para estimar Razões de Prevalência (RP) e IC95% para a associação das variáveis socioeconômicas, demográficas e de saúde com a TNC. Verificou-se aumento estatisticamente significante da TNC: 67,4% (IC95%: 65,5-69,3) em 2019, ante 49,2% (IC95%: 47,1-51,3) em 2013. Porém, ainda existem desigualdades e defasagens entre os estados da federação e variáveis sociodemográficas. Entre os anos, a TNC foi menor nas crianças de cor/raça parda e preta, dos três piores quintis de renda, sem plano de saúde, cadastradas na Estratégia de Saúde da Família, da região norte, de cidades do interior e da zona rural do Brasil. Apesar de o aumento da prevalência de TNC, desigualdades e defasagens individuais e contextuais permaneceram, indicando os desafios das políticas de saúde.

Abstract This study analyzed the prevalence of complete neonatal screening (CNS) of children aged under 2 years in Brazil and associated factors using data from the 2013 (n=4,442) and 2019 (n=5,643) national health surveys. We conducted a cross-sectional study to compare prevalence of CNS (eye, ear and heel prick tests) adopting 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) and a 5% significance level. Crude and adjusted Poisson regression was performed to estimate prevalence ratios (PR) and 95%CI to assess the association between socioeconomic, demographic and health variables and CNS. There was a statistically significant increase in CNS prevalence, from 49.2% (95%CI: 47.1-51.3) in 2013 to 67.4% (95%CI: 65.5-69.3) in 2019. However, large disparities persist across states and between sociodemographic groups. In both years, CNS prevalence was lowest among brown and black children, those from families in the three lowest income quintiles, children without health insurance, those from families registered in the Family Health Strategy and children living in the North, cities outside the state capital/metropolitan regions and rural areas. Despite the increase in prevalence of CNS, deep individual and contextual inequalities persist, posing challenges for health policies.

Utilidad y confiabilidad del cuestionario PreViAs para la evaluación de la visión en neonatos y lactantes turcos / The utility and reliability of the PreViAs questionnaire for the assessment of vision in Turkish neonates and infants

Introducción. La evaluación de la visión en los niños durante el periodo preverbal, con un método fácil de usar y basado en la evidencia, permitiría el diagnóstico temprano y la intervención en los trastornos visuales. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar la utilidad y confiabilidad de la versión en idioma turco del cuestionario Preverbal Visual Assessment (PreViAs), desarrollado para evaluar la visión en niños preverbales. Población y métodos. El cuestionario PreViAs se administró a los cuidadores primarios de niños nacidos de término, antes de los 24 meses de edad. Se registraron sus respuestas. Resultados. Se analizaron los datos de 278 participantes para evaluar la consistencia interna del cuestionario PreViAs. Se encontró un alto nivel de consistencia con un alfa de Cronbach de 0,958 para el puntaje total, lo que sugiere una fuerte coherencia interna. Los valores del alfa de Cronbach para cada dominio fueron: 0,890 ­ 0,913 ­ 0,951 y 0,922 para la atención visual, la comunicación visual, el procesamiento visual y la coordinación visomotora respectivamente; esto indica una buena consistencia interna para cada subdominio. Conclusión. La versión en idioma turco del cuestionario PreViAs es útil y confiable para evaluar la visión durante el periodo preverbal.

Introduction: Evaluating the visual functions of children with an easy-to-use and evidence-based method during the preverbal period will enable early diagnosis and intervention of visual impairments. The aim of this study is to determine the utility and reliability of the Turkish version of the Preverbal Visual Assessment (PreViAs) questionnaire, which was developed to evaluate the visual functioning of preverbal infants. Population and Methods: The PreViAs questionnaire was administered to primary caregivers of term infants under 24 months of age, and their responses were recorded. Results: Data from the 278 participating infants were analyzed to assess the internal consistency of the PreViAs questionnaire. Results showed a high level of consistency with Cronbach's alpha value of 0.958 for the total score, suggesting strong internal coherence. In addition, the Cronbach's alpha values for each domain were 0.890, 0.913, 0.951, and 0.922 for visual attention, visual communication, visual processing, and visual-motor coordination, respectively, indicating good internal consistency for each subdomain. Conclusion: The Turkish version of the PreViAs questionnaire is useful and reliable for assessing functional vision during the preverbal period.

Barreras y facilitadores del acceso al tamizaje de cáncer colorrectal / Barriers and facilitators of colorectal cancer screening access

Resumen Introducción : El cáncer colorrectal (CCR) es un pro blema de salud a nivel global. En el sector público de Bahía Blanca, el tamizaje de CCR es oportunista, por solicitud de sangre oculta en materia fecal (SOMF). El objetivo de este trabajo es describir el acceso al tamiza je de CCR de la población con cobertura pública exclu siva que reside en el área programática 2 de la ciudad entre 2019 y 2021, y relevar las barreras y facilitadores que lo determinan. Métodos : Se estimó la tasa de uso anual y acumula da de SOMF. Las barreras y facilitadores se relevaron a través de 41 entrevistas individuales semi-estructuradas al personal de salud del área programática, el Hospital Municipal, Secretaría de Salud y usuarios/no usuarios del sistema. Resultados : La tasa acumulada de uso de SOMF en el período fue 4.8%. Entre las barreras al tamizaje per cibidas se destacan: la dificultad en el acceso a estudios de mayor complejidad para pacientes con SOMF+, el desconocimiento y falta de percepción del CCR como un problema de salud por parte de la población y la baja adherencia de los profesionales a los lineamientos. La territorialidad y el vínculo de los centros de salud con la población, y la predisposición de usuarios y profesio nales a incorporar el tamizaje surgen como facilitadores del mismo. Conclusiones : El relevamiento de las barreras orien tará el diseño de estrategias adaptadas al contexto que permitan en el futuro reforzar el tamizaje.

Abstract Introduction : Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a global health problem. In the public sector of Bahía Blanca, CRC screening is opportunistic, through the request of fecal occult blood test (FOBT). The objective of this study is to describe access to CRC screening for the population with exclusive public coverage residing in the program matic area 2 of the city between 2019 and 2021, and to identify the barriers and facilitators that determine it. Methods : The annual and cumulative usage rate was estimated based on the number of patients who requested FOBT. The barriers and facilitators were studied through 41 semi-structured individual inter views to healthcare staff from the area, the Municipal Hospital, Health Secretariat and users/non-users of the system. Results : The cumulative usage rate of FOBT during the period was less than 5%. Among the perceived bar riers to screening, we found: the difficulties in accessing more complex studies for patients with positive FOBT, the lack of population awareness and perception of CRC as a health problem, the low adherence of professionals to guidelines. The territoriality and link of health centers with the population, as well as the willingness of users and professionals to incorporate screening, emerge as facilitators. Conclusion : The identification of barriers and facilita tors will allow the design of context-adapted strategies that will strengthen screening in the future.

Efectividad de estrategias para incrementar la adherencia al tamizaje de cáncer colorrectal: una revisión sistemática / Effectiveness of strategies to increase adherence to colorectal cancer screening: a systematic review

Resumen Introducción : En Argentina la cobertura al tamizaje de cáncer colorrectal (CCR) es muy baja. El objetivo de esta revisión fue relevar y sintetizar la evidencia sobre la efectividad de estrategias dirigidas a incrementar la adherencia al tamizaje de CCR del personal de salud y población con riesgo promedio. Métodos : Revisión de revisiones sistemáticas (RS) que evaluaron la efectividad de dichas estrategias. Bús queda en bases de datos electrónicas, meta-buscadores, biblioteca Cochrane y búsqueda manual. Aplicación de criterios de elegibilidad e inclusión; con evaluación de la calidad de las RS a través del AMSTAR-II y la certeza de la evidencia por el método GRADE. Síntesis temática sobre la base de la taxonomía de estrategias propuesta por Dougherty (dirigidas al paciente/comunidad; a pro fesionales; otro tipo de estrategias). Resultados : Se identificaron 635 estudios; 36 fueron elegibles y 11 se descartaron por no contar con cali dad suficiente, incluyéndose 10 RS. Se identificó una multiplicidad de estrategias de efectividad variada, la mayoría dirigida a la población. Entre estas, destacan la educación, el auto-test con recolección en lugares específicos y recordatorios. En el caso de profesionales, solo educación y recordatorios mostraron ser efectivas. La combinación de estrategias mostró tener mayor efec tividad que las estrategias aisladas. Conclusiones : Es mayor la evidencia sobre estrategias dirigidas a la población que a profesionales. Las estrate gias combinadas demostraron tener mayor efectividad, lo que destaca la necesidad de explorar, en cada con texto, las barreras en la población y en los profesionales para priorizar y combinar aquellas que demostraron ser efectivas y tendrían mayor impacto.

Abstract Introduction : Coverage for colorectal cancer screening in Argentina is very low. The objective of this review is to assess and synthesize the evidence on the effectiveness of strategies aimed at increasing adherence to colorectal cancer screening among healthcare personnel and the general population at average risk. Methods : A review of systematic reviews (SRs) that evaluated the effectiveness of these strategies was con ducted. Searches were performed in electronic data bases, meta-search engines, the Cochrane Library, and through manual searching. Eligibility and inclusion criteria were applied, with assessment of the quality of the SRs using AMSTAR II and the certainty of evidence using the GRADE approach. Thematic synthesis was con ducted based on the taxonomy of strategies proposed by Dougherty (patient/community-targeted, professional-targeted, and other types of strategies). Results : A total of 635 studies were identified, with 36 deemed eligible and 11 excluded due to insufficient quality, resulting in the inclusion of 10 SRs. A multi plicity of strategies with varying effectiveness were identified, with the majority targeting the population. Among these, education, self-testing with specimen collection at specific locations, and reminders stood out. For professionals, only education and reminders showed effectiveness. Combined strategies demonstrated greater effectiveness than isolated strategies. Conclusions : There is more evidence on strategies targeting the population than professionals. Combined strategies showed greater effectiveness, highlighting the need to explore barriers in both the population and professionals in each specific context in order to priori tize and combine those that have proven effective and would have a greater impact.