Estudiar y trabajar como factores de riesgo en estudiantes de enfermería, Universidad Nacional Formosa, 2022 / Study and work as risk factors in nursing students, National University of Formosa,2022

Objetivo: Correlacionar la variable principal sostén del hogar con las variables género, edad, horas de trabajo, horas de sueño y factores de riesgo cardiovascular (índice de masa corporal, hipertensión arterial, dislipemia y diabetes mellitus), en estudiantes de 3º, 4 y 5º año de la Licenciatura en Enfermería, Universidad Nacional de Formosa. Metodología: estudio descriptivo, correlacional, transversal realizado en 214 estudiantes, durante el año 2022, utilizándose un cuestionario on-line autoadministrado, estructurado y medición de peso y talla. Resultados: el 76% fueron mujeres; 64%, principal fueron principal sostén del hogar, 57% refirió dormir menos de 6 horas al día, 15 % trabaja más de 41 horas semanales; 67% tuvo respuestas no saludables a la variable estrés, para la variable actividad física este valor ascendió a 71% y el 53,8% presentó exceso de peso. Se encontró asociación significativa entre ser el principal sostén del hogar con exceso de peso, trabajar 41 horas o más semanalmente, dormir menos de 6 horas al día y con la presencia de 3 o más factores de riesgo cardiovascular. Conclusiones: Las condiciones de vida que afrontan los estudiantes que de manera simultánea estudian, trabajan y son principal sostén del hogar pueden generar estrés, el cual es un factor de riesgo para las enfermedades cardiovasculares[AU]

Objetive: to correlate the main variable of primary income earner or primary breadwinner with gender, age, working hours, sleep hours, and cardiovascular disease risk factors (body mass index, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes mellitus) in 3rd, 4th, and 5th-year nursing students at the Nursing Program at the National University of Formosa. Methodology: The study was a descriptive, correlational, cross-sectional, conducted with 214 students during 2022 using a self-administered structured online questionnaire and measurement of weight and height. Results: 76% were women, 64% were the main breadwinner, 57% reported sleeping less than 6 hours a day, 15% working more than 41 hours per week; 67% had unhealthy responses to the stress variable, this value rose to 71% for the physical activity variable, and 53.8% were overweight. A significant association was found between the main variable of primary breadwinner and being overweight, working 41 or more hours weekly, and the presence of 3 or more cardiovascular risk factors. Conclusions: The living conditions faced by students who simultaneously study and work, and being the main breadwinner in the household can generate stress, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases[AU]

Objetivo:: correlacionar a variável principal de sustento econômico do lar com as variáveis gênero, idade, horas de trabalho, horas de sono e fatores de risco cardiovascular (índice de massa corporal,hipertensão arterial, dislipidemia e diabetes mellitus) em estudantes do 3º, 4º e 5º ano do curso de graduação em Enfermagem, Universidade Nacional de Formosa. Metodologia: O estudo foi descritivo, correlacional e transversal, realizado em 214 estudantes durante o ano de 2022. Foi utilizado um questionário online autoadministrado e estruturado, e a medição de peso e altura dos estudantes foi realizada. Resultados: 76% dos estudantes eram mulheres; 64% eram o principal sustento econômico do lar; 57% relataram dormir menos de 6 horas por dia, 15% responderam que trabalham mais de 41 horas por semana; em relação aos fatores de risco cardiovascular, 67% tiveram respostas não saudáveis para a variável estresse, para a variável atividade física esse valor aumentou para 71% e 53,8% apresentaram excesso de peso. Foi encontrada uma associação significativa entre a variável principal de sustento econômico do lar com as variáveis excesso de peso, trabalhar 41 horas ou mais por semana, dormir menos de 6 horas al día e a presença de 3 ou mais fatores de risco cardiovascular. Conclusões: As condições de vida enfrentadas pelos estudantes que simultaneamente estudam, trabalham e são o principal sustento do lar podem gerar estresse, que é um fator de risco para doenças cardiovasculares[AU]

Efecto del confinamiento por COVID-19 en la prevalencia de la enfermedad hepática esteatósica asociada a disfunción metabólica / Effect of COVID-19 lockdown on the prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease

Introducción. La enfermedad hepática esteatósica asociada a disfunción metabólica (MASLD) es una condición clínica frecuente, relacionada con el sobrepeso, la dislipidemia y la diabetes. Como estos factores de riesgo están a su vez asociados al sedentarismo y la ganancia de peso, se esperaría un impacto como resultado del confinamiento por COVID-19 en la prevalencia de dicha condición. Metodología. Estudio longitudinal retrospectivo en un panel de datos de 132 pacientes de 2017 a 2022, en donde fueron incluidos pacientes con una ecografía hepática y una valoración médica y paraclínica 1,5 años antes y después del periodo de confinamiento (25 de marzo de 2020 a 28 de febrero de 2021). El desenlace primario fue un cambio significativo en la prevalencia de la MASLD, y se utilizó un modelo exploratorio de regresión logística de efectos fijos con panel de datos para hallar los predictores de cambio. Resultados. En un total de 132 pacientes analizados, la prevalencia global de la MASLD antes (31 %; IC95%: 23-39) y después (35,6 %; IC95%: 27,4-43,8) del confinamiento por COVID-19 no cambió significativamente, sin embargo, en las mujeres sí hubo un aumento significativo (RR: 4; IC95%: 1,0004-16). Se encontró una marcada diferencia de prevalencia entre sexos (17 % en mujeres y 46 % en hombres; p=0,001). El confinamiento se asoció a incrementos en la masa corporal (diferencia: +1 kg; IC95%: 0,1-1,9), el colesterol LDL (diferencia: +9,7 mg/dL; IC95%: 4,9-14,4) y al diagnóstico de prediabetes (RR: 2,1; IC95%: 1,4-3,1). La MASLD se asoció positivamente a la preferencia nutricional por la comida rápida (p=0,047). Solo el índice de masa corporal resultó predictor independiente de MASLD (RR: 1,49; IC95%: 1,07-1,93). Conclusión. La prevalencia global de la MASLD no varió después del confinamiento por COVID-19, pero sí se incrementó en mujeres, y algunos de sus factores de riesgo también aumentaron significativamente. Se encontró equivalencia numérica entre la MASLD y la definición previa de la enfermedad. Se requiere un estudio local más grande para desarrollar y validar un mejor modelo predictor del cambio de la MASLD a través del tiempo.

Introduction. Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a common clinical condition, related to overweight, dyslipidemia and diabetes. As these risk factors are in turn associated with sedentary lifestyle and weight gain, an impact as a result of the COVID-19 confinement on the prevalence of MASLD would be expected. Methodology. Retrospective longitudinal study in a data panel of 132 patients from 2017 to 2022. Patients with a liver ultrasound and a medical and paraclinical assessment 1.5 years before and after the confinement period (March 25, 2020 to February 28, 2021) were included. The primary outcome was a significant change in the prevalence of MASLD, and an exploratory fixed-effects logistic regression model with panel data was used to find predictors of change. Results. In a total of 132 patients analyzed, the overall prevalence of MASLD before (31%, 95%CI: 23-39) and after (35.6%, 95%CI: 27.4-43.8) confinement by COVID-19 did not change significantly, however, in women there was a significant increase (RR: 4, 95%CI: 1.0004-16). A marked difference in prevalence was found between sexes (17% in women and 46% in men; p=0.001). Confinement was associated with increases in body mass (difference: +1 kg, 95%CI: 0.1-1.9), LDL cholesterol (difference: +9.7 mg/dL, 95%CI: 4.9-14.4) and the diagnosis of prediabetes (RR: 2.1, 95%CI: 1.4-3.1). MASLD was positively associated with nutritional preference for fast food (p=0.047). Only body mass index was an independent predictor of MASLD (RR: 1.49, 95%CI: 1.07-1.93). Conclusion. The overall prevalence of MASLD did not change after the COVID-19 lockdown, but it did increase in women, and some of its risk factors also increased significantly. Numerical equivalence was found between MASLD and the previous definition of the disease. A larger local study is required to develop and validate a better predictor model of MASLD change over time.

Effect of polycystic ovary syndrome on the life quality of young women

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The study evaluated the opinions of polycystic ovary syndrome on the life quality of women. METHODS: A total of 249 women with polycystic ovary syndrome participated in this descriptive study between October 2022 and July 2023 in Istanbul, Turkey. FINDINGS: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Quality of Life was significantly correlated with age (p=0.000) and frequent weight loss diets (p=0.000) (p<0.01). Among the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Quality of Life total score and polycystic ovary syndrome symptoms, those with hormone imbalance and insulin resistance had the highest mean scores, while those with menstrual irregularity and fatigue had the lowest. CONCLUSION: Advancing age changes the quality of life of women with polycystic ovary syndrome. To prevent the negative impact of polycystic ovary syndrome on women's quality of life, it is recommended that health professionals develop effective care plans utilizing available evidence.

Relationship between lifestyle and sociodemographic determinants and eating patterns among adults and the elderly: A population-based study

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify dietary patterns in an adult population and to verify the factors associated with them. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional population-based household study with 1,574 individuals aged >20 years, of both sexes, living in Teresina and Picos, Piauí, Brazil. Sociodemographic, lifestyle and food consumption data were collected. Dietary patterns were obtained using principal component analysis. Results: There was a positive and significant association with the healthy eating pattern in women, elderly people, individuals with secondary and higher education and smokers. The white-meat pattern was positively associated with people without a partner and non-white skin, as well as with women, elderly people and smokers, and inversely with individuals with longer screen time and individuals with high school and college education. The unhealthy pattern was positively associated with individuals with excessive screen time and individuals with secondary and higher education, and inversely associated with individuals who were insufficiently active. Conclusion: Women, the elderly, individuals with a partner, non-smokers and active people have a healthier diet. However, men, smokers, with longer screen time and insufficiently active had a more inadequate diet, while the level of education showed contrasting results.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Identificar patrones dietéticos en una población de adultos y adultos mayoresy verificar los factores asociados a ellos. Métodos: Estudio transversal poblacional y domiciliario realizado en 1574 personas mayores de 20 años, de ambos sexos, residentes en Teresina y Picos, Piauí, Brasil. Se recogieron datos sociodemográficos, de estilo de vida y de consumo de alimentos. Los patrones dietéticos se obtuvieron mediante análisis de componentes principales. Resultados: Hubo asociación positiva y significativa con el patrón de alimentación saludable en mujeres, adultos mayores, individuos con educación secundaria y superior y fumadores. El patrón de carnes blancas se asoció positivamente con personas sin pareja y piel no blanca, así como con mujeres, personas mayores y fumadores, e inversamente con personas con mayor tiempo de pantalla y personas con educación secundaria y universitaria. El patrón insalubre se asoció positivamente con individuos con tiempo de pantalla excesivo y con individuos con educación secundaria y superior, y se asoció inversamente con individuos que eran insuficientemente activos. Conclusión: Las mujeres, los adultos mayores, las personas en pareja, los no fumadores y las personas activas tienen una dieta más saludable. Sin embargo, los hombres, fumadores, con mayor tiempo de pantalla e insuficientemente activos tenían una dieta más inadecuada, mientras que el nivel de educación mostró resultados contrastantes.

The Rising trend of obesity among secondary school children of rural background

Background: Earlier obesity was a disease of the affluent but with changing trend, moderniza?on, sedentary lifestyles overweight/ obesity is increasing in the rural popula?on too. Children of the present genera?on are prone to obesity which will hamper life in the future. Scien?fic evidence shows that unhealthy diet and physical inac?vity are major global determinants of non-communicable diseases. Aim & Objec?ves: To es?mate the prevalence of obesity, to study the life style factors and to analyze the socio-demographic factors that influence obesity. Materials & Methods:A crosssec?onal study was carried out in 400 children between the age group of 12–15 years. Informed consent was obtained from school authori?es to collect informa?on from the children. Height and weight were measured using standard procedure and BMI (kg/m) was calculated. Overweight and obesity was assessed by BMI following the WHO guidelines. The ques?onnaire assessed life style, physical ac?vity, dietary habits and socio-demographic data. Results:Prevalence of obesity was 25.2% (101 children). The sta?s?cally significant (p<0.05) factors which influenced obesity was transport to school, physical ac?vity, watching television while ea?ng, consump?on of ready made food items, ea?ng in between meals and the socioeconomic status. Conclusion:The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 25.2% as per the BMI (WHO) classifica?on. Use of motor transport, lack of physical ac?vity and sedentary life are major factors.

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Stroke among Older Adults in India: Analysis of the Longitudinal Aging Study in India-Wave 1, 2017–2018

Introduction: Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability in India. Stroke survivors may suffer from lifelong physical and cognitive frailty. There is a need for more studies on the prevalence and determinants of this debilitating disease at the national level. Thus, assessing the factors associated with stroke is vital to developing appropriate preventive strategies in India. Methods: Data from the Longitudinal Aging Study in India wave 1 (2017–2018) are utilized for this analysis. The survey collected demographics, social, economic, and health data, including lifestyle factors and stroke, from 65,900 older adults ?45 years representing all states and union territories. Stroke prevalence was calculated for each independent variable, and the differences were compared using the ?2 test. An unconditional multivariable logistic regression model was used to obtain the adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of each lifestyle and socioeconomic variable for stroke prevalence. Results: The prevalence of self?reported stroke was 1.71% (95% CI: 1.61–1.80). Older adults with hypertension (AOR=3.69, 95% CI: 2.95–4.62), family history of stroke (AOR=3.09; 95% CI: 2.33–4.12), arrhythmias (AOR=2.27; 95% CI: 1.20–4.29), physical inactivity (AOR=1.91; 95% CI: 1.55–2.34) were strong contributors of stroke. Diabetes and high cholesterol individuals have 1.5 times more odds for stroke than those without those conditions. Increasing age (AOR=1.57 for 55–69 older adults, and AOR 2.05 for ?70 years), male sex (AOR=1.75; 95% CI 1.36–2.26), and rich (AOR=1.58; 95% CI: 1.21–2.06) were also associated with increased odds for stroke. Conclusion: The prevalence of stroke was high among adults aged ?45 years in India. Hypertension, family history of stroke, arrhythmias, and low physical activity were significant contributors to stroke. The findings suggest that preventing and controlling these lifestyle conditions and behaviors may help prevent stroke.

Lifestyle Behaviour and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): An Association Study Among Young Adults

Introduction: Lifestyle changes like low physical activity, smoking and consumption of alcohol have been reported to have an impact on Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Smoking was found to be associated with nocturnal hypoxemia and disturbed sleep. Apneic episodes are increased after alcohol consumption. Objectives: To determine the risk of developing Obstructive Sleep Apnea among young adults.Material and Methods: Participants were asked to fill in an online generated questionnaire on lifestyle habits in addition to the modified Berlin questionnaire and Epworth questionnaire. A total of 209 study participants were included in the study. A Chi-square test was applied.Results: Among 209 participants, 47(22.5%) were females and 162 (77.5%) were males. Snoring was reported in 90 (43.1%) of study participants. Around thirty-three, percent of participants were at higher risk of developing Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Obstructive Sleep Apnea was predicted in 21.5%. No as-sociation was found between the lifestyle behavioural factors and Obstructive Sleep Apnea.Conclusion: Though a significant association was not found between selected lifestyle factors and Ob-structive Sleep Apnea risk, the role of lifestyle factors could not be undermined. A healthy lifestyle helps in preventing the occurrence of Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

Etiology and current treatment status of 277 patients with chronic atrophic gastritis and erosion in Beijing area / 中华消化杂志

Objective:To preliminarily understand the living habits, medication taking and treatment status including the therapeutic regimen, compliance and short-term efficacy of patients with chronic atrophic gastritis and erosion in Beijing area.Methods:From April to September in 2019 at Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking University Third Hospital and Peking University Shougang Hospital, the outpatients with chronic atrophic gastritis and erosion diagnosed with endoscopy within two weeks before visiting were prospectively included in this non-interventional observation study. Chi square test was used for statistical analysis.Results:A total of 277 patients with chronic atrophic gastritis and erosion had complete follow-up data, of which male patients accounted for 49.8% (138/277). The common initial symptoms of patients with chronic atrophic gastritis and erosion included acid reflux, abdominal distension, epigastric pain and postprandial distension, which accounted for 60.3% (167/277), 59.6% (165/277) , 58.8% (163/277) and 52.3% (145/277), respectively. For treatment, 36.8% (102/277) of the patients only received lifestyle instruction without medication. Among the patients with medication treatment, the short-term efficacy of gastric mucosal protectants+ proton pump inhibitor+ gastro-kinetic agent for abnominal distension, postprandial distention, acid reflux and nausea was highest as compared with other therapeutic regimen, and the differences were statistically significant ( χ2=25.18, 19.49, 13.75, 8.84, all P<0.05). Conclusions:Chronic gastritis with erosion may be caused by a combination of multiple factors, and the symptoms of which lack specific. If necessary, gastroscopy may help the diagnosis. Individualized treatment strategies based on the symptoms of patients is needed for treatment.

Exploring the potential impact of nutritionally actionable genetic polymorphisms on idiopathic male infertility: a review of current evidence / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

Infertility affects about 15% of the world's population. In 40%-50% of infertile couples, a male factor underlies the problem, but in about 50% of these cases, the etiology of male infertility remains unexplained. Some clinical data show that lifestyle interventions may contribute to male reproductive health. Cessation of unhealthy habits is suggested for preserving male fertility; there is growing evidence that most preexisting comorbidities, such as obesity and metabolic syndrome, are highly likely to have an impact on male fertility. The analysis of genetic polymorphisms implicated in metabolic activity represents one of the most exciting areas in the study of genetic causes of male infertility. Although these polymorphisms are not directly connected with male infertility, they may have a role in specific conditions associated with it, that is, metabolic disorders and oxidative stress pathway genes that are potentially associated with an increased risk of male infertility due to DNA and cell membrane damage. Some studies have examined the impact of individual genetic differences and gene-diet interactions on male infertility, but their results have not been synthesized. We review the current research to identify genetic variants that could be tested to improve the chances of conceiving spontaneously through personalized diet and/or oral vitamin and mineral supplementation, by examining the science of genetic modifiers of dietary factors that affect nutritional status and male fertility.

Environmental & occupational exposure & female reproductive dysfunction

All individuals are exposed to certain chemical, physical, biological, environmental as well as occupational factors. The data pertaining to role of these factors on female reproduction are scanty as compared to male. The available data suggest the adverse effects of certain toxicants, viz., metals such as lead, cadmium and mercury, pesticides such as bis(4-chlorophenyl)-1,1,1-trichloroethane and organic solvent such as benzene, toluene and ionizing radiation on the female reproductive system affecting directly the organ system or impacting in directly through hormonal impairments, molecular alterations, oxidative stress and DNA methylation impairing fertility as well as pregnancy and its outcomes. Thus, there is a need for awareness and prevention programme about the adverse effects of these factors and deterioration of female reproductive health, pregnancy outcome and offspring development as some of these chemicals might affect the developing foetus at very low doses by endocrine disruptive mechanism.

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Hypertension among Adolescents in Malaysia

@#Introduction: Evidence has shown an increase in paediatric hypertension globally and this could give rise to increase prevalence of adult hypertension. The purpose of this paper was to determine the prevalence of hypertension among adolescents in Malaysia as well as the association between hypertension and lifestyle factors selected based on published literature. Methods: Adolescents aged 13-17 years old were selected randomly from two secondary schools to have their blood pressure measured. Their lifestyle information was obtained through completed bilingual questionnaires based on validated instruments, as well as anthropometry measurements. The relationship between hypertension and lifestyle factors was determined through statistical analysis. Results: A total of 273 students were included in the study with 120 (44%) males and 153 (56%) females. The prevalence of hypertension was 24.5% among the respondents with the highest being recorded among Malays (28.7%). Generally, hypertension was associated with an increased Body Mass Index (BMI) (AOR=4.053, 95%CI=1.677-9.795, p=0.002) and waist circumference (WC) (AOR=2.918, 95%CI=1.171-7.269, p=0.021) in all respondents. Similar associations were noted in females (BMI: AOR=7.707, 95%CI=2.043-29.072, p=0.003; WC: AOR=3.690, 95%CI=1.011-13.464, p=0.048) but not in males. Conclusion: Hypertension recorded high prevalence among Malaysian adolescents in our study. The strong association between elevated body weight, BMI and WC with hypertension may require further study to evaluate the need for screening.

Assessment of oral health status and associated lifestyle factors among Malaysian Fishermen in Teluk Bahang, Penang: An analytical cross-sectional study

Given background sparsity of country-specific literature evidence, and the pervasive unhealthy lifestyle habits such as tobacco, alcohol use, and high sugar consumption among fishermen, the aim of this study was to assess the oral health status and associated lifestyle factors among Malaysian fishermen in Teluk Bahang, Penang. Subjects and Methods: In an analytical cross-sectional design, we used simple random sampling technique to select 242 multiracial Malaysian male fishermen aged between 18 and 75 years from five fishing villages located at Gurney Drive, Tanjong Tokong, Tanjong Bungah, Batu Ferringhi, and Teluk Bahang to participate in this study. During four consecutive weekends in January 2017, we conducted face-to-face interviews with participants using a pre-validated, interviewer-administered WHO oral health questionnaire. We categorized participants as having “good” or “poor” oral health based on a mean cutoff score of 14. Multivariate regression models were fitted to assess the oral health status and associated lifestyle factors among the study population, using SPSS version 22. Results: We achieved a response rate of 97.6%. Overall, the prevalence of poor oral health in this study was 47.5%. “Income” (RM/month), “type of fishing,” “additional occupation,” “age” (years), “frequency of pies, buns consumed,” and “frequency of sweets, soft drinks consumed” were significant predictors of oral health status among the fishermen. Conclusion: Poor oral health is relatively highly prevalent among the fishermen in our study. The oral health status of fishermen in Teluk Bahang was consistent with the national average and significantly associated with their sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. Targeted interventions are required to arrest and reverse this trend.

Insomnia and its correlates among elderly patients presenting to family medicine clinics at an academic center

@#Objective: The objective of this study is to determine the frequency and correlates of insomnia among elderly patients presenting to family medicine clinics at an academic center in Karachi, Pakistan. Study design: This is a cross-sectional study. Place and duration of study: The study was conducted at the Outpatient Family Medicine Clinics at Aga Khan University Hospital between February 2013 and June 2013. Methodology: Patients 60 years old and above were recruited (n=152) through non- probability consecutive sampling. Information was collected on a pretested structured questionnaire on demographics, insomnia symptoms, medical co-morbidities, lifestyle factors and sleep disorders. Data was analyzed on SPSS 19. Proportions and the Chi-Square test were used in the analyses, along with binary logistic regression. Results: The mean age of the participants was 65.68 years, and 38.80% of the participants were male and 61.20% were female. The prevalence of insomnia was 42.1%. It was more common in women than in men (64.10% vs. 35.9%). Increasing age [ORadj: 4.54; 95%CI: 1.85-11.17], being divorced/widowed [ORadj: 10.26; 95%CI: 2.79- 37.73] and having an average household income of over Rs.50, 000, were significantly related to insomnia. The other factors associated with insomnia were Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease [ORadj: 4.30; 95% CI: 1.67-11.04], depression [ORadj: 2.88, 95% CI: 1.13-7.33], caffeine consumption [ORadj: 6.50; 95% CI: 2.27-18.57], and cigarette smoking close to bed time [ORadj: 4.78; 95% CI: 0.88-25.90]. Conclusion: The study showed that older adults with multiple diseases were at high risk of insomnia. Certain life style practices enhanced the risk; hence, physicians should incorporate sleep history and tailor treatment to target both insomnia and related factors to optimize quality of life.

Prevalence of voice disorder among primary school teachers in Bintulu, Sarawak

Teachers face one of the highest demands of any professional group to use their voices at work. Thus, they are at higher risk of developing voice disorder than the general population. The consequences of voice disorder may have impact on teacher’s social and professional life as well as their mental, physical and emotional state and their ability to communicate. Objectives of this study are to determine the prevalence of voice disorder and the relationship between voice disorder with associated risk factors such as teaching activities and lifestyle factors among primary school teachers in Bintulu, Sarawak. A cross sectional study was conducted based on random sample of 4 primary schools in Bintulu, Sarawak between January-March 2014. A total of 100 full-time primary school teachers were invited to participate in the study. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire addressing the prevalence of voice disorder and potential risk factors. Descriptive analysis and chi-square test was used to measure the relationship between voice disorder and associated risk factors. The response rate for this study was 78% (78/100). The study found that the prevalence of voice disorder among primary school teachers in Bintulu, Sarawak was 13%. Chi-square test results revealed that factors significantly associated with voice disorder (p<0.05) were smoking (p=0.012), consuming alcohol beverages (p=0.012) for lifestyle factors while teaching session (p=0.049) for teaching activities. A low prevalence of voice disorder exists among primary school teachers in Bintulu, Sarawak. Smoking, consuming alcohol beverages and teaching session has proven to be significantly associated causing voice disorder among them.

Differences in lifestyle factors between functional constipation and constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome / 中华消化杂志

Objective To compare the differences of lifestyle factors between patients with functional constipation (FC)and constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-C).Methods From February 2011 to December 2014,255 patients with chronic constipation were enrolled.Among them,there were 170 FC patients and 85 IBS-C patients.At the same period,170 healthy volunteers without symptoms of digestive diseases within one year were recruited as control.The data of demographic information and lifestyle factors were collected.First,single variant analysis was performed for statistical analysis and then the statistically significant variants were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression. Then the factors of FC and IBS-C patients were analyzed by decision tree model and the effects of factors under different categories were analyzed.Results The results of single variant analysis indicated that there was no difference in lifestyle factors between FC group and IBS-C group (all P >0.05).The results of multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that no independent protective or risk factors were found in IBS-C group compared with FC group.According to decision tree model analysis,body mass index (BMI),water intake per day and constipation family history were finally enrolled.The incidence of FC was higher in patients with BMI (66.67%).The incidence of FC was highest in patients with BMI≥23.56 kg/m2 and family history of constipation (70.00%).The total prediction accuracy of this model was 64.6% (42/65 )and area under curve (AUC)value was 0.688.Conclusions FC and IBS-C are related with many lifestyle factors.Low BMI and less water intake per day are influence factors of FC,while higher BMI and family history of constipation are influence factors of IBS-C.

Association of Lifestyle Factors with Obesity Indices among Adolescents in Amman, Jordan

The aim of the study was to evaluate the association between physical activity level, sedentary behaviour and eating habits with obesity indices of body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR)) among Jordanian adolescents. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the capital city of Jordan, Amman. The participants were 735 secondary school males (386) and females (349) aged 14-18 years who were randomly selected using a multistage stratified cluster sampling technique. Weight, height, BMI, waist circumference (WC), WHtR, screen time, physical activity level, and eating habits were assessed. Results: Compared with males, females were significantly (p<0.05) less physically active, skipped breakfast more frequently, consumed more sweets and potato chips and had less fruits and milk intake. The results of analysis of covariance showed that overweight and obesity (based on BMI or WHtR categories) were significantly (p< 0.05) different with regard to gender, type of school, lower intakes (<3 d/week) of breakfast, milk and sugar sweetened drinks. Conclusion: Knowledge of the factors that contribute to obesity could be used in preventive programmes for the control of obesity among adolescents in Jordan. Promotion of physical activity and healthy dietary habits among Jordanian adolescents is urgently needed.

Effects of education and income on cognitive functioning among Indians aged 50 years and older: evidence from the Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health (SAGE) Wave 1 (2007–2010).

Objectives: Relatively little is known about socioeconomic predictors of cognitive health among middle-aged and elderly Indians. The primary objective of this study was to examine the extent to which education and income influence cognitive functioning after adjusting for demographic characteristics, health risk factors and transgenerational factors such as parental education. The study also examined gender disparities in cognitive functioning across geographic regions in India. Methods: Using cross-sectional data from the World Health Organization Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health (SAGE) Wave 1 (2007–2010) in a national sample of adults aged 50 years or older, a generalized linear model was used to examine the impacts of education and per-capita income on overall cognitive functioning. The generalized estimating equation approach was utilized to quantify these impacts on respondents’ overall cognitive performance score. This technique accounted for any correlation of responses of individuals within the same household. Results: Respondents with primary or secondary education and those with education above secondary level scored 3.8 and 6 points (P < 0.001) respectively more than respondents who had no formal education. In a similar vein, individuals in higher per-capita income quartiles scored 0.4, 1.0 and 1.8 (P < 0.001) more than respondents in the lowest income quartile. Although respondents in northern states scored 1.8 points higher than those from other geographic locations (P < 0.001), females in northern states had the worst cognitive performance (1.9 points lower) compared with females in other Indian states. In addition, early and adult life characteristics such as parental education, physical activity and a history of depression were found to be significant predictors of overall cognitive functioning. Conclusion: Education and income play important roles in influencing overall cognitive performance among middle-aged and elderly Indians. In addition, cognitive performance scores varied across geographic regions, and female disadvantage was observed in northern Indian states. Policies directed towards greater educational opportunities, particularly for women in northern Indian states, or promotion of physical activity programmes, have potential to improve cognitive performance and enhance cognitive health among middle-aged and older adults in India.

Factors Influencing Abdominal Obesity By Waist Circumference Among Normal BMI Population

The population with normal body mass index (BMI) but with abdominal obesity are most of the time the ‘neglected’ population in terms of health interventions. The aim of this study is to study the prevalence of abdominal obesity and to explore the factors causing abdominal obesity by using waist circumference (WC) measurement. A cross sectional study was conducted among a group of respondents in Tanjung Karang, Selangor, Malaysia from January until June 2010, among those aged 18 years old and above, to explore the demographic (gender and ethnics), lifestyle factors (physical activity, carbohydrate intake and smoking status) and measurement of body weight, height and waist circumference. A total of 629 subjects with normal BMI were studied. The prevalence of abdominal obesity was 36.1% based on WC (40.0% males and 70.0% females). The predictor model revealed that being non-Malay (aOR = 2.1; 95% CI: 1.35-3.20) and being female (aOR = 3.6 ; 95% CI : 2.51-5.06) were the associated factors of having abdominal obesity in normal BMI population. In conclusion, females and non-Malay were factors that were found to be associated with abdominal obesity in normal BMI population. This is important in targeting this vulnerable population with risk factors that can develop non communicable diseases for early interventions.

Nutrient Intake, Lifestyle Factors and Prevalent Hypertension in Korean Adults: Results from 2007-2008 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey / 대한지역사회영양학회지

Hypertension is a well-known risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Previous studies have shown that changes in diet and lifestyle factors can prevent the development of hypertension, but the combined effects of these modifiable factors on hypertension are not well established. The objective of this study is to investigate associations of diet and lifestyle factors, evaluated both individually and in combination, with prevalent hypertension among Korean adults. We analyzed data obtained from the 2007-2008 Korean National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey, a nationwide cross-sectional study using a stratified, multistage probability sampling design. The associations of 12 nutrient intakes and lifestyle factors with risk of hypertension were explored using restricted cubic spline regression and logistic regression models among 6,351 adults. Total energy and several nutrients and minerals, including, calcium, vitamin A, vitamin C, and sodium, showed non-linear relationships with the risk of prevalent hypertension. In multivariate logistic regression models, dietary score, obesity and alcohol intake were independently associated with the risk of prevalent hypertension, but smoking and physical activity were not. Overall, participants whose dietary habits and lifestyle factors were all in the low-risk group had 68% lower prevalence of hypertension (OR: 0.32, 95 CI: 0.14-0.74) compared to those who were at least one in the high-risk group of any dietary or lifestyle factors. The result suggests that combined optimal lifestyle habits are strongly associated with lower prevalence of hypertension among Korean adults.

A Study of the Lifestyle Factors Related to Constipation among Food Habits of College Students in Seoul and Gyunggi / 대한지역사회영양학회지

The purpose of this study is to investigate how the lifestyles of food habits of college students relate to constipation. The results were as follows : 1) All the total respondents were 541 college students. 220 (40.8%) respondents were male and 321 (59.2%) respondents were female. Based on their BMIs, 55.5% of the female respondents were under-weight (BMI < 20), 16.8% of the male respondents were under-weight, as well. These results point out the fact that a high percentage of female college students are under-weight, compared to male of students. 2) Of the respondents, 59.0% reported having 1 or 2 meals per day, but their eating patterns were irregular. Of the respondents, 71.2% preferred white rice with their meals. Of the respondents, 51.2% reported that they skipped breakfast. The main reasons why these respondents skipped breakfast were either that they were in a busy (44.7%), or it was their habit (38.4%). The response that their meals were nutritionally balanced was 34.6%, and the student who thought that their own meal pattern was healthful was 8.0%. 3) This research also focused on body image among female college students, and the results indicate that the majority of female respondents (62.5%) felt that they were overweight (very fatty or fatty) and 90.1% of the female respondents indicated they were interested in dieting (interest or very interest). Most of the students were involved in light or medium activity (94.2%) or no exercise (75.6%). The ratio of those who exercised was everyday only 33.6%. 4) Of the respondents, 48.7% reported that they had difficulty evacuating (every time very difficult, every time difficult and sometimes difficult) and 50.3% of the students reported that their bowel movements were irregular. 5) Of the females, 8.2% and Of the males, 0.5% were regarded as constipated. 6) The life habit factors that influenced constipation were skipping breakfast, the amount of water intake and exercise.