Predictive Models for Forecasting Coronavirus Disease 2019 Cases: Relevance to Public Health Services

Introduction@# The global impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has continually jeopardized vulnerable populations encompassing children, youth, elders, and individuals with immunodeficiency and comorbidities. @*Methods@#In recognizing the crucial role of predictive analytics in shaping public health decisions, this study utilizes a predictive design, drawing on official data from the Department of Health (DOH) in the Davao Region, Philippines, spanning 57 days from March 15 to May 10, 2020. By comparing the Susceptible, Infected, Recovered (SIR) model and the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model, the research aims to provide a scientific foundation for informed decision-making by public health authorities. @*Result@#Analysis revealed that the SIR model emerged as the most effective in identifying trends and forecasting future cases. Despite both models indicating a substantial reduction in infection rates, caution is advised against discontinuing control and preventive measures due to the latent potential for another surge. The findings underscore the necessity for scientifically forecasted data to guide decision-makers in enhancing the responsiveness of public health services during similar and potentially worsening conditions. @*Conclusions@#Hence, this study contributes to the ongoing pandemic preparedness and responsiveness discourse. Its emphasis on predictive analytics, particularly the SIR model, offers valuable insights for authorities tasked with safeguarding public health. The significance lies in addressing the current situation in the Davao region and providing a template for future scenarios. As the world grapples with the unpredictable nature of infectious diseases, informed decision-making based on scientific forecasts becomes imperative for effective public health management.

Anxiety and depression in primary and middle school students quarantined in hotels during the COVID-19 epidemic / 中国心理卫生杂志

Objective:To investigate symptoms of anxiety and depression among primary and middle school students quarantined in hotels during the COVID-19 epidemic.Methods:Anxiety and depression symptoms among 726 primary and middle school students quarantined in hotels were investigated with The Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders(SCARED)and Depression Self-rating Scale for Children(DSRSC)from September to October 2022 in Chifeng City,Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.There were 624 students completed investi-gation with response rate of 86％.The positive score of SCARED was ≥23 and DSRSC was ≥ 15.Results:The detection rates of anxiety and depression were 17.9％and 15.4％respectively.The detection rates of anxiety and depression were higherin middle school students than inprimary school students(Ps＜0.05).The scores of general-ized anxiety and social phobia factors were higher in female students than in male students(Ps＜0.05).The scores of dissociative anxiety factor and depression were higher in middle school students than in primary school students(Ps＜0.05).Conclusion:During the COVID-19 epidemic,middle school students quarantined in hotels are more likely to have anxiety and depression symptoms than primary school students,and female students are more likely to have anxiety symptoms than male students.

Efeitos do lockdown na incidência da COVID-19 na fase de emergência sanitária da pandemia / Effects of lockdown on COVID-19 incidence in the health emergency phase of the pandemic

RESUMO Objetivo avaliar os efeitos do lockdown na incidência da COVID-19 na fase de emergência sanitária da pandemia. Métodos trata-se de um estudo ecológico transversal. Os dados foram coletados nas páginas da Fundação Sistema Estadual de Análise de Dados e da Prefeitura Municipal de Araraquara. Para analisar a incidência da COVID-19 foram considerados os casos notificados no referido município. Para comparar os períodos em relação aos casos diários, foi utilizado o modelo de regressão com distribuição binomial-negativa com função de ligação logarítmica. Resultados para todas as faixas etárias, com exceção de menores de 20 anos, verificou-se diferença estatística nos coeficientes de incidência. Para o sexo feminino o declínio na incidência da doença foi mais expressivo. Considerando ambos os sexos e todas as faixas etárias, observou-se uma redução de 49% na incidência de casos. Conclusão houve uma redução significativa na incidência da doença considerando a população geral do município. Contribuições para a prática: a disponibilidade e adoção de medidas tradicionais de saúde pública, como o lockdown, mostraram-se essenciais para reduzir casos e óbitos de doenças de vírus respiratórios emergentes sem tratamento e vacina.

ABSTRACT Objective to assess the effects of lockdown on the incidence of COVID-19 during the health emergency phase of the pandemic. Methods this is a cross-sectional ecological study. Data was collected from the websites of the State Data Analysis System Foundation and Araraquara City Hall. To analyze the incidence of COVID-19, cases reported in the municipality were considered. A regression model with a negative binomial distribution and a logarithmic link function was used to compare the periods in terms of daily cases. Results for all age groups except those under 20, there was a statistical difference in the incidence coefficients. For females, the decline in the incidence of the disease was more significant. Considering both sexes and all age groups, there was a 49% reduction in the incidence of cases. Conclusion there was a significant reduction in the incidence of the disease in the general population of the municipality. Contributions to practice: the availability and adoption of traditional public health measures, such as lockdown, proved essential to reducing cases and deaths from emerging respiratory virus diseases without treatment or vaccine.

May the force be with you during the quarantine: a cross-sectional study on the perception of health locus of control, sports engagement and emotional eating of individuals who exercised regularly / Que a força esteja com você durante a quarentena: um estudo transversal sobre a percepção do locus de controle da saúde, engajamento esportivo e alimentação emocional de indivíduos que se exercitam regularmente

ABSTRACT Objective This study evaluated the perception of health locus of control, sports engagement, and emotional eating during quarantine of individuals who regularly exercised before the quarantine. Methods Individuals who regularly attended the gym before the quarantine period were enrolled in the study. The questionnaire included the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale-A, Sport Engagement Scale, and Emotional Eating Scale, which was applied online to 513 gym members. Results 74.9% of participants adopted the perception of internal health locus of control. Emotional eating scores were higher in participants who did not exercise during the quarantine when compared to those who did and in those adopting the perception of chance health locus of control compared to participants adopting the perception of internal health locus of control. Participants who adopted the perception of internal health locus of control compared to the those who adopted the perception of chance or powerful others health locus of control had higher sports engagement (p<0.05). Individuals with a high BMI, who did not have a perception of internal health locus of control and who did not exercise during the quarantine were prone to emotional eating. Conclusion In conclusion, in those individuals who regularly went to gym before the quarantine, continuing to exercise during the quarantine may have provided an advantage in preventing emotional eating, and we also showed that sports engagement supported the continuation of exercise during the quarantine period. In addition, we determined that individuals with a high body mass index, who do not have a perception of internal health locus of control and who did not exercise during the quarantine were prone to emotional eating.

RESUMO Objetivo Este estudo avaliou a percepção do locus de controle da saúde, entre o envolvimento em esportes e comer emocional durante a quarentena de indivíduos que se exercitavam regularmente antes do período de isolamento. Métodos Indivíduos que frequentavam regularmente a academia antes do período de quarentena foram incluídos no estudo. O questionário incluiu: a Escala Multidimensional de Locus de Controle da Saúde, Escala de Envolvimento em Esportes e Escala de Comer Emocional. Esse estudo foi aplicado online a 513 membros da academia Resultados 74,9% dos participantes que adotaram a percepção locus de controle da saúde interno. As pontuações do comer emocional foram mais altas em participantes que não se exercitaram durante a quarentena, em comparação com aqueles que fizeram, e aqueles que adotaram a percepção de locus de controle da saúde de chance, em comparação com participantes que adotaram a percepção de locus de controle da saúde interno. Participantes que adotaram a percepção de locus de controle da saúde interno tiveram um maior envolvimento em esportes em comparação com aqueles que adotaram a percepção de locus de controle da saúde de chance ou de poder de outros (p<0,05). Indivíduos com um alto IMC, que não tinham a percepção de locus de controle da saúde interna e que não se exercitaram durante a quarentena estavam mais propensos à comer emocional. Conclusão Em conclusão, naqueles indivíduos que frequentavam regularmente a academia antes da quarentena, continuar se exercitando durante a quarentena pode ter fornecido uma vantagem em termos de prevenção da Escala Comer Emocional, e também mostramos que o engajamento esportivo apoiou a continuação do exercício durante o período de quarentena. Além disso, determinamos que indivíduos com alto índice de massa corporal, que não têm percepção do locus de controle interno da saúde e que não se exercitam durante a quarentena eram propensos a Escala Comer Emocional.

Impacto das medidas de distanciamento social relacionadas à covid-19 em pacientes com disfunção temporomandibular / Impact of social distancing related to COVID-19 in patients with temporomandibular disorder

Aim: To evaluate the impact of the social distancing imposed by COVID-19 in the socioeconomic, familiar and health scope of the participants, as well as the relation of the gravity of the sign and symptoms of Temporomandibular disorder. Materials and methods: Two questionnaires were applied, one by telephone interview and the other virtual. The first asked about signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorder and the second about behavior during the pandemic. Results: The sample was composed by 15 patients, mostly women who lived in Porto Alegre. 64,3% of the subjects declared there was a decrease in household income during this period. Concerning to difficulties found to access health service, make an appointment, and get health care, were the most cited, each pointed to 61,5% of the sample. The presence of anxiety and depression feelings were cited 64,3%. There was an increase in alcohol consumption during the pandemic as a decrease in the frequency of physical activity. Discussion: Several studies that were conducted during and after the pandemic, corroborate the findings that the social distancing cause negative repercussions in the mental health, socioeconomics situations and in the daily habits in the population from all over the world. Conclusion: With this study we could observed and analyzed how the patients who suffered with TMD faced the challenges proposed by the social distancing, due to COVID-19. We can conclude that the pandemic causes several negatives effects in most of the group.

Objetivo: Avaliar os impactos das medidas de distanciamento social impostas pelaCOVID-19 nas esferas socioeconômicas, familiar e de saúde dos participantes, bem como a relação com a gravidade dos sinais e sintomas de disfunção temporomandibular. Materiais e Métodos: Foram aplicados dois questionários sendo um por entrevista telefônica e outro virtual. O primeiro perguntava sobre sinais e sintomas da disfunção temporomandibular e o segundo sobre comportamento durante a pandemia. Resultados: A amostra foi composta por 15 pacientes, em sua maioria do sexo feminino e que residia na cidade de Porto Alegre. Desses, 64,3% dos entrevistados declararam que houve diminuição na renda familiar durante este período. Com relação às dificuldades encontradas para acesso aos serviços de saúde, a marcação de consultas e conseguir atendimento de saúde, foram as mais citadas, cada uma das dificuldades apontada por 61,5%. A presença de sentimentos de ansiedade e depressão foi citada por 64,3%. Houve aumento na ingestão de bebidas alcoólicas durante a pandemia, bem como diminuição da frequência de atividade física. Discussão: Diversos estudos realizados durante e após a pandemia, corroboram os achados de que o isolamento social causou repercussões negativas na saúde mental, nas situações socioeconômicas e nos hábitos diários da população em todo o mundo. Conclusão: Com este estudo conseguimos observar e analisar como os pacientes que sofrem com a disfunção temporomandibular enfrentaram os desafios propostos pelo isolamento social, decorrente da covid-19. Podemos concluir que a pandemia e o isolamento social causaram impactos negativos em grande parte do grupo em questão.

Hábitos alimentarios asociados a la emergencia sanitaria Covid-19 en adultos chilenos / Eating habits associated with the Covid-19 health emergency in Chilean adults

Introducción. El brote de COVID-19 generó cambios significativos en los hábitos alimentarios asociados a las medidas de confinamiento y distanciamiento social. Objetivo. Evaluar los hábitos alimentarios asociados a la emergencia sanitaria COVID-19 en adultos chilenos durante el año 2020. Materiales y Métodos. Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal en adultos chilenos seleccionados mediante muestreo no probabilístico por conveniencia. Se utilizó una encuesta validada por juicio de expertos, que incluyó preguntas sobre características sociodemográficas, ingesta habitual de alimentos y percepción de cambios de hábitos alimentarios durante el confinamiento. Resultados. Participaron 4.346 adultos chilenos con una edad promedio de 35,8 ± 13,9 años, predominantemente residentes urbanos (94,3%) y mujeres (75,1%). Se observó un aumento en el abastecimiento de alimentos en los hogares durante el confinamiento. La mayoría de los participantes manifestó que mantuvo o aumentó el consumo de verduras, frutas, lácteos, pescado y legumbres. Sin embargo, la ingesta de alimentos saludables no alcanzó las recomendaciones nutricionales establecidas. Adicionalmente, se encontró un aumento en el consumo de dulces. Conclusiones. Este estudio revela los efectos del confinamiento por la pandemia de COVID-19 en los hábitos alimentarios de los adultos chilenos, donde un porcentaje considerable de la población no cumplió con las recomendaciones de una dieta equilibrada según las guías alimentarias chilenas. El aumento en el consumo de algunos alimentos poco saludables puede tener implicaciones en la salud y el estado nutricional. Es necesario fomentar una alimentación equilibrada durante situaciones de crisis como esta pandemia(AU)

Introduction. The COVID-19 outbreak has led to significant changes in dietary habits due to confinement and social distancing measures. Objective. To assess the dietary habits associated with the COVID-19 health emergency among Chilean adults during the year 2020. Materials and methods. An observational, descriptive, and cross- sectional study was conducted on Chilean adults selected through non-probabilistic convenience sampling. A survey validated by expert judgment was used, including questions on sociodemographic characteristics, usual food intake, and perceived changes in dietary habits during confinement. Results. A total of 4,346 Chilean adults participated in the study, with an average age of 35.8 ± 13.9 years, predominantly urban residents (94.3%), and female (75.1%). An increase in household food supplies during confinement was observed. Most participants reported maintaining or increasing their consumption of vegetables, fruits, dairy, fish, and legumes. However, the intake of healthy foods did not meet the established nutritional recommendations. Additionally, there was an increase in the consumption of sweets. Conclusions. This study reveals the effects of COVID-19 confinement on the dietary habits of Chilean adults, where a considerable percentage of the population did not comply with the recommended balanced diet according to Chilean dietary guidelines. The increased consumption of some unhealthy foods may have implications for health and nutritional status. It is essential to promote balanced eating during crisis situations like this pandemic(AU)

Efectividad de la cuarentena durante la primera y segunda ola de COVID-19: un estudio de corte transversal y temporal

Introducción. La principal estrategia para enfrentar la pandemia del COVID-19 fue la cuarentena. Cierta literatura admite su utilidad; en cambio otra resalta los perjuicios y riesgos que conlleva la aplicación de esta medida. Objetivo. Utilizando cortes semanales y mensuales de defunciones de la primera y segunda ola del COVID-19, se evaluó la utilidad de la cuarentena en Perú en términos de adherencia y efectividad a nivel provincial. Métodos. Tomando como dependiente el número de casos de fallecidos en cada provincia se estimó el efecto de la movilidad según distintos tipos de lugares y otras covariables sobre la variable de interés. Se utilizó información del Centro Nacional de Epidemiología, Prevención y Control de Enfermedades del Ministerio de Salud (CDC - MINSA); la Plataforma Nacional de Datos Abiertos (PCM - MINSA); la data de la Superintendencia Nacional de Salud (SUSALUD); e información agregada de Google Analytics. Para estimar la efectividad se construyó un modelo de efectos fijos. Resultados. En la estimación mensual, durante la primera y segunda ola de COVID-19, las covariables y la mayoría de las tendencias de la movilidad de las personas resultaron significativas. En la segunda ola la movilidad en parques, supermercados y farmacias perdieron relevancia. En la estimación semanal solo la disponibilidad de oxígeno no fue relevante en la segunda ola; las demás variables independientes sí lo fueron. Conclusiones. La estrategia sanitaria de la cuarentena, tanto en la estimación mensual como en la semanal, no tuvo la efectividad esperada, aunque lograra adherencia en su cumplimiento.

Introduction. The main strategy to face the COVID-19 pandemic was quarantine. Some literature admits its usefulness; on the other hand, other literature emphasizes the harm and risks involved in the application of this measure. Objective. Using weekly and monthly cut-offs of deaths from the first and second waves of COVID-19, the usefulness of quarantine in Peru was evaluated in terms of adherence and effectiveness at the provincial level. Methods. Taking as dependent the number of cases of deaths in each province, the effect of mobility according to different types of places and other covariates on the variable of interest was estimated. Information from the National Center for Epidemiology, Prevention and Disease Control of the Ministry of Health (CDC - MINSA); the National Open Data Platform (PCM - MINSA); data from the National Superintendence of Health (SUSALUD); and aggregate information from Google Analytics were used. A fixed effects model was constructed to estimate effectiveness. Results. In the monthly estimation, during the first and second waves of COVID-19, the covariates and most of the trends in people's mobility were significant. In the second wave, mobility in parks, supermarkets and pharmacies lost relevance. In the weekly estimation only oxygen availability was not relevant in the second wave; the other independent variables were. Conclusions. The health strategy of quarantine, both in the monthly and weekly estimation, did not have the expected effectiveness, although it achieved adherence.

Niveles de 25(OH)D durante la pandemia de COVID-19: impacto del confinamiento y la radiación ultravioleta / 25(OH)D levels during the COVID-19 pandemic: impact of lockdown and ultraviolet radiation

Resumen Antecedentes: Las políticas de confinamiento domiciliario durante la pandemia de COVID-19 limitaron la exposición solar y pudieron influir en los niveles de vitamina D. Objetivo: Evaluar los cambios en 25(OH)D durante la pandemia de COVID-19 y el impacto del aislamiento social, preventivo y obligatorio (ASPO) en la dosis recomendada de radiación UV modificada por las nubes para la síntesis de vitamina D (UVDVC). Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo de 15 908 pacientes en quienes se determinó el nivel de 25(OH)D entre enero de 2019 y diciembre de 2021 en un laboratorio centralizado en Rosario, Argentina. Resultados: Se constataron niveles más bajos de 25(OH)D en menores de 40 años durante 2020, así como una variación durante el período pandémico, con menores valores en la primera ola. Se registraron menores niveles de 25(OH)D en el período posterior al ASPO en comparación con el período de ASPO (p < 0.00001), además de mayor frecuencia de hipovitaminosis D (48.6 % versus 36.1 %). No se observaron estas diferencias en la comparación de los mismos períodos de 2019. La UVDVC no varió entre 2019 y 2020. Conclusiones: Las restricciones por la pandemia de COVID-19 llevaron a mayor frecuencia de hipovitaminosis D y menor frecuencia de valores óptimos.

Abstract Background: Home confinement policies during the COVID-19 pandemic limited sun exposure and may have influenced on vitamin D levels. Objective: To assess changes in 25(OH)D during the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of Mandatory Preventive Social Isolation (MPSI) on UV radiation recommended dose modified by clouds for the synthesis of vitamin D (UVDVC). Material and methods: A retrospective study was carried out on 15,908 patients in whom the level of 25(OH)D was determined between January 2019 and December 2021 in a centralized laboratory in Rosario, Argentina. Results: Lower levels of 25(OH)D were documented in people younger than 40 years during 2020, as well as a variation during the pandemic period, with lower values in the first wave. Lower levels of 25(OH)D were recorded in the post-MPSI period in comparison with the MPSI period (p < 0.00001), in addition to a higher frequency of hypovitaminosis D (48.6% vs. 36.1%). These differences were not observed in the comparison of the same periods of 2019. UVDVC did not vary between 2019 and 2020. Conclusions: The restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic led to a higher frequency of hypovitaminosis D and lower frequency of optimal values.

Afectaciones de la salud mental relacionadas con la COVID-19 / Mental Health Conditions Related to COVID-19

Introducción: La pandemia de COVID-19 ha creado una situación de crisis que requiere un enfrentamiento a los efectos directos del virus y otros problemas de salud relacionados por el temor al contagio, y a las medidas de confinamiento que repercuten en la salud mental. Objetivo: Describir afectaciones de la salud mental relacionadas con la COVID-19. Métodos: Se efectuó una revisión bibliográfica documental, mediante búsquedas electrónicas en las bases de datos científicas MEDLINE, Pubmed, EBsCO y Scielo. Se utilizaron como palabras clave: pandemia COVID-19; salud mental y COVID; cuarentena; impacto psicológico de la COVID-19 y su equivalente en inglés. Se consideraron comunicaciones oficiales de organismos internacionales, regionales y nacionales. Como resultado de la búsqueda se analizaron 44 artículos científicos que cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. El período de estudio estuvo comprendido entre septiembre del 2020 y febrero del 2021, en La Habana, Cuba. Conclusiones: La pandemia COVID-19 ha provocado un impacto negativo en la salud mental. Los síntomas más frecuentes desde el punto de vista de la salud mental han sido: depresión, ansiedad irritabilidad, insomnio, ira, agotamiento emocional y pánico. Se observó trastorno de estrés postraumático. El análisis y conocimiento de los resultados expuestos en esta revisión pueden ser útiles para la valoración de medidas que contribuyan a mitigar los trastornos emocionales en la población y prestarles atención especial a las afectaciones en la salud mental en grupos vulnerables, particularmente al personal de salud(AU)

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has created a crisis situation that requires coping with the direct effects of the virus and other related health problems due to fear of contagion, and confinement measures that impact mental health. Objective: To describe mental health effects related to COVID-19. Methods: A documentary literature review was carried out by means of electronic searches in the scientific databases MEDLINE, PubMed, Ebsco and SciELO. Key words used were: COVID-19 pandemic; mental health and COVID; quarantine; psychological impact of COVID-19 and its English equivalent. Official communications from international, regional and national agencies were considered. As a result of the search, 44 scientific articles that met the inclusion criteria were analyzed. The study period was between September 2020 and February 2021, in Havana, Cuba. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on mental health. The most frequent symptoms from the mental health point of view have been: depression, anxiety, irritability, insomnia, anger, emotional exhaustion and panic. Post-traumatic stress disorder was observed. The analysis and knowledge of the results presented in this review may be useful for the assessment of measures that contribute to mitigate emotional disorders in the population and pay special attention to mental health effects in vulnerable groups, particularly health personnel(AU)

Exposición a pantallas de niñas, niños y adolescentes: recomendaciones, límites y controversias en el marco del distanciamiento social obligatorio: un estudio cualitativo / Child and Teenage Screen Exposure: Recommendations, Limits,and Controversies in the Context of Enforced Social Distancing: a Qualitative Study

Introducción: la utilización de pantallas durante la niñez y la preocupación por su potencial daño aumentaron en los últimos años. La recomendación de no superar dos horas diarias de uso resultó controvertida durante la pandemia por COVID-19. El objetivo principal de esta investigación fue explorar las opiniones y actitudes de los profesionales con respecto al uso de pantallas y comprender cómo se modificaron durante dicha pandemia. Materiales y métodos: estudio exploratorio con enfoque cualitativo y estrategia de teoría fundamentada, realizado entre 2020 y 2021.Participaron 23 profesionales (pediatras y generalistas) en cuatro grupos focales. Se realizaron lecturas del material desgrabado para interpretación del contenido. El análisis incluyó la generación de códigos que fueron agrupados en cinco ejes temáticos. Resultados: los ejes resultantes fueron: 1) temática de las pantallas en la consulta ambulatoria de niños sanos, 2) percepción sobre daños, 3) percepción sobre beneficios, 4) pantallas en épocas de ASPO (Aislamiento Social Preventivo y Obligatorio) y 5) pensamientos y acciones contradictorios sobre el uso de pantallas. Discusión: a la hora de recomendar sobre exposición a pantallas, en nuestros entrevistados predominó la intuición personal por sobre la evidencia científica disponible. Reconocieron que el contexto de ASPO visibilizó algunos beneficios asociados a la conectividad que brindan estos dispositivos. Conclusión: nuestros resultados muestran que la percepción sobre las pantallas se está volviendo cada vez más neutral en términos del balance entre sus riesgos y beneficios, conduciendo a que los profesionales sean más flexibles en sus recomendaciones al respecto. (AU)

Introduction: screen use during childhood and potential harm concerns have increased in recent years. Advice not to allow more than two hours of screen use per day was contested during the COVID-19 pandemic. The primary purpose of this research was to probe the opinions and attitudes of professionals regarding the use of screens and to understand how these changed during the pandemic. Materials and methods: this exploratory study, with a qualitative approach and theory-based strategy, was made between 2020 and 2021, and involved the participation of 23 professionals (pediatricians and general practitioners) in four focus groups. The recorded material was analyzed for content interpretation. The analysis included generating codes that were grouped into five thematic areas. Results: the resulting axes were: 1) the issue of screens in the outpatient practice of healthy children; 2) perception of harm; 3) perception of benefits; 4) screens in times of Preventive and Compulsory Social Isolation (ASPO, for its acronym in Spanish); and 5) contradictory thoughts and actions on the use of screens. Discussion: when making recommendations regarding screen exposure, the interviewees' intuition predominated over available scientific evidence. They recognized that the ASPO context highlighted some of the benefits associated with the connectivity provided by these devices. Conclusion: our results show that awareness of screen displays is becoming increasingly neutral concerning the trade-off between their risks and benefits, prompting practitioners to become more flexible in their recommendations. (AU)

COVID-19 en trabajadores activos durante la cuarentena. Realidad de un sector urbano de Caracas, Venezuela / COVID-19 in active workers during quarantine. Reality of an urban sector of Caracas, Venezuela

La pandemia por COVID-19 resultó un problema para la salud pública mundial, que impactó particularmente al sector de trabajadores que debían trabajar y estar expuestos durante el periodo de cuarentena. Objetivo, analizar la incidencia de COVID-19 y sus características en trabajadores(as) activos(as) durante 34 semanas. Investigación descriptiva y transversal. Población constituida por todos los trabajadores(as) activos de sectores priorizados, con diagnóstico confirmado de COVID-19. De los 1.186 casos confirmados, 658 casos (55%) correspondió a trabajadores activos, una incidencia de 1,7 casos x 1000 (mayor a la esperada), con predominio en trabajadores(as) del sector salud (267casos), choferes del transporte y trabajadores de funerarias (253 casos). El 68,7% menor de 40 años y predominio del sexo masculino (61,2%). En el personal de salud, el 30% correspondió a personal de enfermería y 22% en médicos. La tasa de mortalidad en la población de trabajadores activos fue de 0,07 x cada 1000, con un índice de mortalidad de 0,05 y un índice de recuperación del 95,5%, comportamiento similar al de la población general. Sin embargo, la tasa de letalidad (trabajadores activos positivos fallecidos) fue del 4,4% (29 casos), donde el 75% (22/29) fueron enfermeras y médicos, lo que confirmó al sector salud y trabajadores(as) de servicios, como población trabajadora altamente expuesta y vulnerable, lo que justificó priorizar las medidas de prevención en estos trabajadores, al iniciar el sistema de vigilancia epidemiológica, la vacunación y la dotación con uso adecuado de la protección personal(AU)

The COVID-19 Pandemic was a problem for global public health, which particularly impacted the sector of workers who had to work and were exposed during the quarantine period. The objective was to analyze the incidence of COVID- 19 and its characteristics in active workers during 34 weeks. Descriptive and cross-sectional research. Population made up of all active workers in prioritized sectors, with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19. Of the 1,186 confirmed cases, 658 cases (55%) corresponded to active workers, an incidence of 1.7 cases per 1,000 (higher than expected), with a predominance of workers in the health sector (267 cases), transport drivers and funeral home workers (253 cases). 68.7% under 40 years of age and predominance of the male sex (61.2%). In health personnel, 30% corresponded to nursing personnel and 22% to doctors. The mortality rate in the population of active workers was 0.07 x every 1000, with a mortality rate of 0.05 and a recovery rate of 95.5%, behavior similar to that of the general population. However, the fatality rate (deceased positive active workers) was 4.4% (29 cases), where 75% (22/29) were nurses and doctors, which confirmed the health sector and service workers, as a highly exposed and vulnerable working population, which justified prioritizing prevention measures in these workers, by initiating the epidemiological surveillance system, vaccination and provision with adequate use of personal protection(AU)

Consumo alimentario durante el confinamiento por la COVID-19 en adultos sanos

Introducción: La pandemia por la COVID-19 condujo a un confinamiento que pudo repercutir en los niveles de estrés, ansiedad, como también en el consumo de alimentos de la población en todo el mundo. Se realizó una revisión de tipo narrativa. La búsqueda bibliográfica se realizó en la interfaz PubMed de MEDLINE y la interfaz de Web of Science Core Colletion. Se incluyeron artículos en inglés, español y portugués, entre enero 2020 y junio 2021. Objetivos: Describir los cambios en el consumo de alimentos durante el confinamiento por la COVID-19 en adultos sanos. Desarrollo: De 106 artículos, 19 cumplieron con los criterios de elegibilidad. De los 19 artículos analizados, 9 de ellos observaron un aumento del consumo de carnes y embutidos, cereales, bocadillos dulces y bebidas azucaradas. Se encontró un aumento de preparaciones caseras en 5 estudios, también 5 de ellos encontraron una disminución del consumo de comida rápida. No se presentaron cambios en el consumo de lácteos, legumbres, frutas, verduras, pescados, mariscos, agua y alcohol según 7 estudios. Conclusiones: Hubo cambios en la alimentación en parte de la población, de manera heterogénea, de acuerdo con el grupo de alimentos, producto del confinamiento por la COVID-19. Se aprecia un aumento del consumo de carnes y embutidos, cereales, bocadillos dulces y bebidas azucaradas. Disminuyó el consumo de comida rápida. No se presentaron cambios en el consumo de lácteos, legumbres, frutas, verduras, pescados, mariscos, agua y alcohol.

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic led to a confinement that could impact on levels of stress, anxiety, and food consumption of the population worldwide. Therefore, a narrative review was performed. The literature search was conducted in the PubMed interface of MEDLINE and the Web of Science Core Collection interface. Articles were included in English, Spanish and Portuguese, between January 2020 and June 2021. Objective: To describe changes in food consumption during COVID-19 confinement in healthy adults. Development: Of the 106 articles, 19 met the eligibility criteria. Of the 19 articles analyzed, 9 of them noted an increase in consumption of meats and sausages, cereals, sweet snacks, and sugary drinks. An increase in homemade preparations was found in 5 studies, also 5 of them found a decrease in fast food consumption. No changes in the consumption of dairy, legumes, fruits, vegetables, fish, seafood, water, and alcohol were present according to 7 studies. Conclusions: There were dietary changes in part of the population, heterogeneously according to food group due to COVID-19 confinement. There was an increase in the consumption of meat and sausages, cereals, sweet snacks, and sugary drinks. Consumption of fast food decreased. There were no changes in the consumption of dairy products, legumes, fruits, vegetables, fish, seafood, water, and alcohol.

Eye-related emergency visits during the early phase of the coronavirus disease pandemic in a reference hospital in Sao Paulo, Brazil / Atendimento no pronto-socorro de oftalmologia durante o início da pandemia do Covid-19 em um hospital de referência em São Paulo, Brasil

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the profile of emergency eye-related visits at a reference eye hospital in Sao Paulo during the first months of the quarantine due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic and to compare it with that in the same period of the previous year. Methods: Data were obtained from the emergency department of Ophthal Hospital Especializado, Sao Paulo, Brazil. All the cases registered between March 23 and May 19, 2020, were included in the study as Group 2020. The cases registered between March 23 and May 19, 2019, were included in the study as Group 2019. Frequency tables were used for the descriptive analyses. The chi-square and Fisher exact tests were applied to compare categorical variables between the groups. Results: We observe a decrease of 46.15% in the number of cases during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 compared with the same period in 2019. We observed a significant increase in the incidence rates of the following pathologies in 2020 compared with 2019: eyelid disorders (12.3%), corneal disorders (97.1%), retinal pathologies (173.1%), refraction (62.9%), glaucoma (acute and chronic; 43.9%), scleral alterations (68.8%), trauma (39.3%), herpes (54.7%), and cataracts (549.9%). On the other hand, the incidence rates of the following disorders decreased: conjunctivitis (-33.4%), disorders of lacrimal system (-81.0%), iridocyclitis (-39.9%), and postoperative visits (-80.1%). Conclusion: During the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, we observed a drastic decrease in the number of patients who visited the emergency eye service. The main reasons for visiting were also changed, with higher frequencies of high-severity cases such as retina disturbances, cornea disturbances, glaucoma, and trauma and lower frequencies of transmittable conditions such as conjunctivitis.

RESUMO Objetivos: Avaliar o perfil das consultas de emergência oftalmológicas durante os primeiros meses de quarentena por pandemia de covid-19 em um hospital oftalmológico de referência em São Paulo e compará-lo com o mesmo período do ano anterior. Métodos: Os dados foram extraídos do serviço de emergência do Hospital Ophthal Especializado, São Paulo, Brasil. Todos os casos registrados entre 23 de março e 19 de maio de 2020 foram incluídos no estudo como Grupo 2020. Os casos registrados entre 23 de março e 19 de maio de 2019 foram incluídos no estudo como Grupo de 2019. Tabelas de frequência foram utilizadas para análises descritivas. Os testes Qui-quadrado e Exato de Fisher foram aplicados para comparar variáveis categóricas entre os grupos. Resultados: Observamos uma diminuição de 46,15% no número de casos durante a pandemia Covid-19 em 2020 quando comparado ao mesmo período sem pandemia em 2019. Foi observado um aumento significativo nos achados de pálpebra (+12,3%), córnea (+97,1%), retina (+173,1%), refração (+62,9%), glaucoma (+43,9%), esclera (+68,8%), trauma (+39,3%), herpes (+54,7%) e catarata (+549,9%) em 2020 quando comparado para 2019. Por outro lado, houve redução nos casos de conjuntivite (-33,4%), transtornos do aparelho lacrimal (-81,0%), iridociclite (-39,9%) e consultas pós-operatórias (-80,1%). Conclusão: durante a fase inicial da pandemia Covid-19, foi observada uma redução drástica no número de pacientes que procuram o serviço de emergência ocular. Houve também uma mudança nos principais motivos para visitas com frequências mais altas de casos de alta gravidade como distúrbios da retina, distúrbios da córnea, glaucoma e trauma, e frequências mais baixas de condições transmissíveis como conjuntivite.

Efecto de la pandemia de COVID-19 en pacientes no COVID-19 que ingresan por Guardia en el Servicio de Cirugía, durante la fase estricta de la pandemia en Buenos Aires. Un estudio de cohorte / Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on non-COVID-19 patients admitted from the emergency department to the surgical ward during the strict phase of the pandemic in Buenos Aires. A cohort study

RESUMEN Antecedentes: Aun en estado de cuarentena, las patologías de urgencia de Cirugía General requieren una evaluación y resolución inmediata. Objetivo: Analizar los ingresos, los resultados quirúrgicos y la gravedad de la enfermedad en los ingresos sin COVID-19, durante los primeros meses de la pandemia. Objetivos secundarios, subanálisis de patologías quirúrgicas habituales, como apendicitis, enfermedad de las vías biliares, diverticulitis y tumores complicados. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, ambispectivo, sobre una cohorte prospectiva de pacientes que consultaron por patología quirúrgica de guardia y requirieron hospitalización entre el 20 de marzo y el 31 de julio de 2020 correspondiente al Grupo Pandemia (GP), analizados y comparados con una cohorte del mismo período de 2019, Grupo Control (GC). Resultados: En el GP, en comparación con el GC, se registró un aumento en el número de pacientes ingresados (346 versus 305, p = 0,157), un aumento en el porcentaje de casos moderados-graves (58,1% versus 48,8%, p= 0,018), en el tiempo transcurrido desde el inicio de la presentación de los síntomas hasta la consulta (48 versus 24 horas, p< 0,001, en el tiempo desde el diagnóstico hasta la cirugía (23 versus 7 horas, p< 0,001), y en el tiempo operatorio (75 versus 60 minutos, p< 0,001). No hubo diferencias significativas en las complicaciones posoperatorias. Conclusión: Durante la pandemia se observaron cambios desfavorables en las características de la población analizada en relación a la pre pandemia, pero sin impacto en la morbimortalidad posoperatoria, demostrando que fue posible mantener los resultados quirúrgicos a pesar del retraso en la consulta.

ABSTRACT Background: Emergency general surgery conditions require immediate evaluation and timely resolution, even during quarantine. Objective: to analyze variations in admissions, surgical outcomes and severity of the disease in non- COVID-19 emergency admissions during the first months of the pandemic. Secondary objectives, to performed a sub-analysis of common surgical conditions, as appendicitis, biliary tract disease, diverticulitis and complicated tumors. Material and methods: An observational, ambispective study was carried out on a prospective cohort of patients who consulted with on-call surgical pathology and required hospitalization from March 20th, 2020 until July 31, 2020 referred to as Pandemic Group (PG), analyzed and compared with the same period of 2019, Control Group (CG). Results: We experienced an increase in the number of patients admitted at the ED during the pandemic PG vs CG (346 versus 305, p 0.157). Patients in the PG were found to be significantly more ill (58.1% versus 48,8%, p 0.018). A significant delay was found globally in both, time from onset of symptoms presentation to consultation (48 hours versus 24 hours, p < 0.001), and time from diagnosis to surgery (23 hours versus 7 hours, p < 0.001) in the PG, and an increase in the mean operative time (75 versus 60 minutes, p= 0,001). There was no significant difference in postoperative complications. Conclusion: During the pandemic we observed an increase in urgent surgical procedures due to biliary pathology and gastrointestinal tumors. The patients consulted with more advanced stages of disease, but this had no impact on postoperative morbidity or mortality, demonstrating that it was possible to maintain surgical outcomes despite delayed consultation.

Mentalización, estilo de apego y afrontamiento al estrés en una muestra poblacional de la Costa Atlántica colombiana durante la cuarentena por el COvID-19 / Mentalizing, Attachment Style, and Coping During the COvID-19 Quarantine in Colombia / Mentalização, estilo de apego e enfrentamento do estresse em uma amostra populacional da Costa Atlântica colombiana durante a quarentena causada pelo COvID-19

El objetivo de este artículo es describir la relación de la mentalización y el estilo de apego sobre el afrontamiento del estrés durante la cuarentena por COVID-19 en Colombia. En el estudio participaron 253 personas, de las cuales 68 fueron hombres, 184 mujeres y 1 se identificó como otro. Los participantes se eligieron mediante un muestreo no probabilístico de tipo bola de nieve y el cuestionario de datos se distribuyó por redes sociales. Como instrumentos de investigación se utilizó el Cuestionario de Afrontamiento frente al Estrés (CAE) ­la forma revisada de la EEC-R­, medida de autoinforme diseñada para evaluar siete estilos básicos de afrontamiento; el Cuestionario de Experiencias en Relaciones Cercanas-revisado (ECR) y el Cuestionario de Función Reflexiva (RfQ-8). En los resultados se encontraron correlaciones entre el estilo de apego y la mentalización con el estilo de afrontamiento frente al estrés durante el aislamiento por la pandemia de COVID-19. Se evidenció que un estilo de apego seguro facilita estilos de afrontamiento más adaptativos, a diferencia de los estilos de apego ansioso y evitativo que están más relacionados con estilos de afrontamiento como la auto focalización negativa y la evitación.

This study aimed to describe the relationship between mentalization and attachment style in coping with stress during the COVID-19 quarantine in Colombia. In this study 253 people participated of which 68 were men, 184 were women and 1 was defined as other; the partici- pants were chosen through a non-probabilistic snowball sampling where the questionnaire was distributed in social networks. As instruments, the CAE is the revised form of the EEC-R; a self-report measure designed to assess seven basic coping styles, the Experiences in Close Relationships-Revised (ECR) questionnaire and the Reflective Function Questionnaire (RfQ-8) were used. The results found correlations between attachment style and mentalization with coping style in the face of stress during the COVID-19 pandemic isolation. Finding that a secure attachment style facilitates more adaptive coping styles, as opposed to anxious and avoidant attachment styles that are more related to coping styles such as negative self-focus and avoidance.

O objetivo do estudo foi descrever a relação entre mentalização e estilo de apego no enfrentamento do estresse durante a quarentena da COVID-19 na Colôm- bia. Neste estudo, participaram 253 pessoas, das quais 68 eram homens, 184 eram mulheres e 1 definido como outro; os participantes foram escolhidos por meio de uma amostragem não probabilística em bola de neve onde o questionário foi distribuído nas redes sociais. Como instrumentos foram usados, o CAE, que é a forma revisada do EEC-R; medida de autorrelato projetada para avaliar sete estilos básicos de enfren- tamento, o questionário Experiencias em Relaciona- mentos Próximos-revisado (ECR) e o Questionário de Funcionamento Reflexivo (RfQ-8). Nos resultados, foram encontradas correlações entre o estilo de apego e a mentalização com o estilo de enfrentamento do estresse durante o isolamento devido à pandemia de COVID-19. Descobriu-se que um estilo de apego seguro facilita estilos de enfrentamento mais adaptativos, ao contrário dos estilos de apego ansioso e evitativo, que estão mais relacionados a estilos de enfrentamento, como autofoco negativo e evitação.

The Impact Of COVID-19 Lockdown on Parents Handling Children with Disability in Chennai, India

Introduction: Millions around the globe were directly or indirectly affected by COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 epidemic has harmed the lives of children with special needs in many ways, whether directly or in-directly. Few studies have evaluated the Impact of covid-19 lockdown among children with disability. Howev-er, the Impact of COVID on parents dealing with special children was scarcely studied in detail. Investigating parental stress, worries, and morbidity during the lockdown is particularly important for assisting these par-ents during further outbreaks. The aim is to assess the Impact of covid-19 lockdown among parents handling disabled children, parenting stress, their concerns, and morbidity during the COVID-19 lockdown.Materials And Method: The study was done among the parents of disabled children attending special schools in Chennai, using a cross-sectional study design. Parents with any recent trauma, mental disorders, or major diseases and undergoing treatment for themselves were excluded. After obtaining ethics approval, a semi-structured questionnaire was used to assess the Impact of the covid-19 lockdown. Collected data were ana-lyzed using SPSS v.21.Results: The study includes 305 parents, predominantly mothers (58%) and the mean age was 38.9+8.2 years. We observed that the COVID-19 lockdown impacted 149 parents (48.9%). The significant predictors for the Impact of COVID-19 lockdown were being a single parent [AOR-2.91(95%CI- 1.05-8.08)] and having a part-time job [AOR-0.36(95%CI- 0.14-0.93)]. Conclusion: The COVID-19 outbreak and lockdown significantly impacted the parents of disabled children. It is high time we give importance to these parents of children with special needs during this pandemic to help them during similar occasions in the future.

Did COVID-19 lockdown delay actually worsen melanoma prognosis?

Abstract Background: The COVID-19 lockdown possibly meant a delay in the diagnosis and treatment of melanoma and therefore, worsening its prognosis. This unique situation of diagnosis deferral is an exceptional opportunity to investigate melanoma biology. Objectives: To evaluate the immediate and mid-term impact of diagnosis delay on melanoma. Methods: A retrospective observational study of melanoma diagnosed between March 14th 2019 and March 13th 2021. We compared the characteristics of melanomas diagnosed during the first 6-month period after the lockdown instauration and a second period after recovery of normal activity with the same periods of the previous year, respectively. Results: A total of 119 melanomas were diagnosed. There were no differences in age, sex, incidence, location, presence of ulceration or mitoses, and in situ/invasive melanoma rate (p > 0.05). After the recovery of the normal activity, Breslow thickness increased in comparison with the previous year (2.4 vs 1.9 mm, p < 0.05) resulting in a significant upstaging according to the AJCC 8th ed. (p < 0.05). Study limitations: The main limitation is that this is a single-center study. Conclusions: The COVID-19 lockdown implied a diagnosis delay leading to a mid-term increase in Breslow thickness and an upstaging of invasive melanomas. However, the detection deferral did not result in a higher progression of in situ to invasive melanoma, in our sample.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the diagnosis and treatment of ocular cancer / Impacto da pandemia de COVID-19 no diagnóstico e tratamento do câncer ocular

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the impact of social isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic on the number of new cases and therapeutic approaches at the Ocular Oncology division from the Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP). Methods: A retrospective study was conducted by medical records review of new patients treated before the pandemic from March 2019 to September 2019 (pre-pandemic group) and during the pandemic from March 2020 to September 2020 (pandemic group). Data regarding age, sex, ethnicity, place of origin, clinical diagnosis, time since referral, and proposed therapy were analyzed. Results: We analyzed 186 new cases, 122 from the pre-pandemic group and 64 from the pandemic group, representing a decrease of 47.54% in new cases. There was no statistically significant change in sex, race, state of origin, history of cancer, age, or time with suspected cancer (p>0.05). A higher frequency of malignancies was observed in the pandemic group (68%) when compared to the pre-pandemic group (48.48%). Benign tumors were the most common diagnosis in the pre-pandemic group (41.80%), while conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma was the modal diagnosis in the pandemic group (31.25%). There was a decreasing trend (p=0.097) in the number of surgeries (-7.63%) and an increase in topical treatment (+10.68%). There was also a tendency to perform fewer surgeries in benign tumors and decreased follow-up visits. Conclusion: Our findings showed a significant decrease in the number of new cases referred to the Ocular Oncology service. Moreover, the pandemic led to a switch in the therapeutic approach with preference to non-invasive treatments that would demand operating rooms. A drastic increase of cases perhaps in advanced stages might be expected because of the decrease observed in the first six months of quarantine.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto do isolamento social devido à pandemia COVID-19 sobre o número de casos novos e abordagens terapêuticas. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo por revisões de prontuários de novos pacientes tratados antes da pandemia, de março de 2019 a setembro de 2019 (grupo pré-pandemia), e durante a pandemia, de março de 2020 a setembro de 2020 (grupo pandemia). Dados analisados incluíram idade, sexo, etnia, local de origem, diagnóstico clínico, tempo desde o encaminhamento e terapia proposta. Resultados: Um total de 186 novos casos foram analisados, sendo 122 do grupo pré-Pandemia e 64 do grupo Pandemia, representando uma redução de 47,54%. Não houve alteração estatisticamente signi ficativa quanto a sexo, raça, estado de origem, história do câncer, idade ou tempo de encaminhamento (p>0,05). Observou-se maior frequência de malignidades no grupo pandemia (68%) quando comparado com o grupo pré-pandemia (48,48%). Os tumores benignos foram os casos mais diagnosticados no grupo pré-pandemia (41,80%), enquanto no grupo pandemia o diagnóstico mais frequente foi o carcinoma de células escamosas de conjuntiva (31,25%). Houve tendência (p=0,097) de diminuição no número de cirurgias (-7,63%) e de aumento no tratamento tópico (+10,68%). Houve também uma tendência a diminuição de indicação cirúrgica em tumores benignos e diminuição dos retornos imediatos. Conclusão: Nossos achados mostram uma diminuição significativa no número de novos casos encaminhados ao setor de Oncologia Ocular. Além disso, a pandemia levou a uma mudança na abordagem terapêutica com preferência a tratamentos não invasivos, a fim de evitar o uso de salas de cirurgia. Um aumento drástico de casos, talvez em estágios avançados, pode ser esperado como resultado da diminuição observada nos primeiros 6 meses de quarentena.

Conductas alimentarias de riesgo en jóvenes adultos de dos comunas de la región de Ñuble en Chile durante pandemia Covid-19

Objetivo: Analizar las conductas alimentarias de riesgo, en relación al estado nutricional y actividad física en jóvenes adultos durante la pandemia COVID-19 en las comunas de Chillán y Chillán Viejo. Método: Diseño observacional y transversal. Se obtuvo una muestra de 184 adultos jóvenes de ambos sexos, que residían en dos comunas de la región de Ñuble (Chile) durante el periodo de confinamiento por la pandemia COVID-19. Se les aplicó un cuestionario de antecedentes personales y la escala SCOFF que evalúa el riesgo de trastornos de la conducta alimentaria (TCA). Resultados: Se encontró un 37,16% de riesgo para TCA (IC 95%: 30,23 - 44,63%). El riesgo de trastornos de la conducta alimentaria tuvo relación con las variables: actividad física (p = 0,01 análisis bivariante) y estado nutricional (p = 0,03, análisis ajustado). Conclusión: Se logró identificar una proporción superior a la registrada en la literatura y los factores asociados a TCA eran los que se esperaban encontrar.

Objective: To analyze risky eating behaviors in relation to nutritional status and physical activity in young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic in the communes of Chillán and Chillán Viejo. Methods: Observational and cross-sectional design. A sample of 184 young adults of both sexes, who lived in two communes in the Ñuble region (Chile) during the period of confinement due to COVID-19 pandemic, was obtained. A personal history questionnaire and the SCOFF scale that assesses the risk of eating behavior disorders (EDs) were applied. Results: A 37.16% risk for ED was found (95% CI: 30.23 - 44.63%). The risk of eating behavior disorders was related to the variables: physical activity (p=0.01 bivariate analysis) and nutritional status (p=0.03, adjusted analysis). Conclusion: It was possible to identify a higher proportion than that recorded in the literature and the factors associated with eating disorders were those that were expected to be found.

Creación e implementación del Sistema de Entrega de Medicamentos a Pacientes Crónicos SIENMECRO: estudio cualitativo

Introducción: Frente a pandemia producida por el SARS-CoV-2, el gobierno peruano implementó diversas medidas como el cierre temporal de los establecimientos del primer nivel de atención y el sistema sanitario implementó diversas políticas y estrategias; una de ellas, fue la creación e implementación del proyecto del Sistema de Entrega de Medicamentos a Pacientes Crónicos (SIENMECRO). Objetivo: Describir el proceso de creación e implementación del proyecto SIENMECRO. Métodos: Investigación cualitativa de tipo estudio de caso que implicó la revisión de la documentación existente como textos y videos y, realización de entrevistas en profundidad a funcionarios y colaboradores involucrados desde la elaboración de la propuesta del SIENMECRO. Resultados: El proyecto SIENMECRO surge como una iniciativa positiva con la aspiración de impulsar un sistema integrado de salud que aborde la realidad sanitaria desde los determinantes sociales de la salud, debido a las dificultades de los pacientes para acudir a sus controles y recibir su tratamiento. A pesar de que no se contó con un plan integral de implementación y control del proyecto, fue fundamental para cubrir la necesidad de atención sanitaria a un segmento vulnerable de la población, evitando su traslado y preservando la salud de las personas más susceptibles de padecer complicaciones por la infección por COVID-19. Conclusiones: Es una iniciativa donde el sistema sanitario toma un rol más proactivo en beneficio de la población, implementando el uso de las tecnologías de información y comunicación en la atención de salud, articulando con los diversos prestadores y acercando los servicios a los ciudadanos más vulnerables.

Introduction: Faced with the pandemic produced by SARS-CoV-2, the Peruvian government implemented several measures such as the temporary closure of primary care facilities and the health system implemented various policies and strategies; one of them was to create and implement the Drug Delivery System for Chronic Patients (SIENMECRO) project. Objective: To describe the creation and implementation process of SIENMECRO project. Methods: Qualitative case study that involved reviewing existing documentation such as texts and videos and conducting in-depth interviews with officials and collaborators involved since the preparation of SIENMECRO proposal. Results: SIENMECRO project emerges as a positive initiative with the aspiration of promoting an integrated health system that addresses the health reality from the social determinants of health, due to patients' difficulties to go to their controls and to receive their treatment. Although there was no comprehensive plan for the implementation and control of the project, it was essential to cover the need for health care for a vulnerable segment of the population, avoiding their transfer and preserving the health of the people most likely to suffer complications from COVID-19 infection. Conclusions: It is an initiative where the health system takes a more proactive role for the benefit of the population, implementing the use of technology of the information and communication in health care, articulating with the various providers and bringing services closer to the most vulnerable citizens.