Comparison of ultrasonographic estimated fetal weight and actual birthweight performed by residents in training at the University Hospital of the West Indies / Comparación del peso fetal estimado por ultrasonografía y el peso real al nacer realizada por los residentes en formación en el Hospital Universitario de West Indies

OBJECTIVE: To determine the correlation of ultrasonographic estimation of fetal weight and actual birthweight and the impact of the level of resident s training on the results. METHODS: This was a prospective study of 90 women with term pregnancies. Ultrasound estimated fetal weight (EFW) was calculated by a pre-programmed Hadlock formula. Days from ultrasound to delivery were less than seven. The EFW was compared to the actual birthweight at delivery. The year of training of the resident that performed the ultrasound was recorded. Exclusion criteria included diabetes mellitus and known fetal anomalies. RESULTS: Mean age was 28 years, parity was 0 to 4 and mean gestational age was 38 weeks. There was an average over-estimation of 64.8 grams. The difference between mean EFW and mean birthweight was not significant (p = 0.067). The difference between mean EFW and mean birthweight when calculated according to year of residency was not significant, p = 0.075 and 0.402for junior and senior residents, respectively. CONCLUSION: There is good correlation between residents' ultrasonographic estimation of fetal weight and actual birthweight at the UHWI. There was no significant difference in correlation between senior and junior residents. Developments in computer technology might contribute to decrease in the learning curve.

OBJETIVO: Determinar la correlación de la estimación ultrasonográfica del peso fetal y el peso real al nacer, y el impacto del nivel de formación del residente en los resultados. MÉTODOS: Se trató de un estudio prospectivo de 90 mujeres con embarazos a término. El peso fetal estimado (PFE) por ultrasonido fue calculado mediante una fórmula de Hadlock preprogramada. Los días transcurridos desde el ultrasonido hasta el parto fueron menos de siete. Se comparó el PFE con el peso real en el parto. Se registró el año de formación del residente que realizó el ultrasonido. Los criterios de exclusión criterios incluyeron diabetes mellitus y anomalías fetales conocidas. RESULTADOS: La edad promedio fue 28 años; la paridad fue de 0 a 4; la edad gestacional fue de 38 semanas. Hubo una sobreestimación promedio de 64.8 gramos. La diferencia entre el PFE promedio y el peso promedio al nacer no fue significativa (p = 0.067). La diferencia entre el PFE promedio y el peso promedio al nacer calculada según el año de residencia no fue significativa, siendo p = 0.075 y 0.402 para médicos en la primera y última etapa de su residencia, respectivamente. CONCLUSIÓN: Existe una buena correlación entre la estimación ultrasonográfica del peso fetal, realizada por los residentes, y el peso real al nacer en el HUWI. No hubo ninguna diferencia significativa en la correlación entre los residentes en sus primeras y últimas etapas. Los desarrollos en la tecnología informática pueden contribuir a la disminución de la curva de aprendizaje.

Bone mineral density in Jamaican black women after hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy: an observational study / Densidad mineral osea en mujeres negras jamaicanas después de histerectomía y ooforectomía bilateral: un estudio observacional

OBJECTIVE: To see if black Jamaican postmenopausal women who had hysterectomy were at increased risk of osteoporosis. To assess the risk of osteoporosis in hysterectomized Jamaican postmenopausal patients. METHOD: We reviewed 809 women (403 hysterectomized and 406 controls) for cardiovascular disease risk. We did a demographic history and examination looking at blood pressure, waist hip ratio and body mass index and investigations done included fasting blood glucose and total and high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. We also measured bone density at the heel in all women using the Achilles ultrasound bone densitometer looking at T-score and Z-score. RESULTS: There was a significant association of hysterectomy status and bone mineral density (BMD) status with a smaller than expected proportion of women with osteoporosis in the hysterectomy group (χ2 = 18.4; p = 0.001). The mean T-score was significantly higher in the hysterectomized women, adjusting for age, waist circumference and sociodemographic factors. The relationship between the various predictors and BMD was explored by stepwise regression modelling. The factors that were significantly related to low BMD were hysterectomy status, age, waist circumference and being employed. CONCLUSION: Hysterectomy was not found to be a significant risk factor for osteoporosis. The osteoporosis risk among menopausal women in Jamaica appears to be due to other risk factors which probably existed prior to the operation.

OBJETIVO: Determinar si mujeres negras jamaicanas postmenopáusicas sometidas a histerectomía corrían mayor riesgo de osteoporosis. Evaluar el riesgo de osteoporosis en pacientes jamaicanas postmenopáusicas histerectomizadas. MÉTODO: Se examinaron 809 mujeres (403 histerectomizadas y 406 controles) para evaluar el riesgo de enfermedad cardiovascular. Hicimos una historia demográfica y un examen para obtener información sobre la presión arterial, el índice cintura/cadera ratio, y el índice de masa corporal. Asimismo, realizamos investigaciones que incluyeron pruebas de glucemia en ayunas, colesterol total, y colesterol de lipoproteínas de alta densidad (HDL). También medimos la densidad ósea en el talón de todas las mujeres, usando el densitómetro óseo ultrasónico modelo Achilles para obtener el T-score y el Z-score. RESULTADOS: Hubo una asociación significativa entre el estado de histerectomía y el estado de la densidad mineral ósea (DMO) con una proporción de mujeres con osteoporosis en el grupo de histerectomía (χ2 = 18.4; p = 0,001) más pequeña de lo esperada. El T-score promedio fue significativamente mayor en las mujeres histerectomizadas, ajustando por edad, circunferencia de la cintura y factores sociodemográficos. La relación entre los distintos factores predictivos y DMO fue explorada mediante regresión gradual stepwise modelado. Los factores que estuvieron significativamente relacionados con baja DMO fueron estado histerectomía, edad, circunferencia de la cintura y siendo empleado. CONCLUSIÓN: Se halló que la histerectomía no es un factor de riesgo significativo para la osteoporosis. El riesgo de osteoporosis entre las mujeres menopáusicas de Jamaica parece deberse a otros factores de riesgo que probablemente existían antes de la operación.

A review of molar pregnancy at the university hospital of the West Indies over a 16-year period.

There is a wide variation in reported incidence, risk factors and presentation of molar pregnancy. This necessitates population-based studies to determine these parameters at the University Hospital of the West Indies, which is a referral centre for these conditions. The incidence of molar pregnancy at the University Hospital of the West Indies was found to be 2.81 per 1,000, which fell in the range of worldwide values. Partial moles made up 61.1% and complete moles 31.0%. The mean age of the patients was 28.49 years old with 85% of patients aged between 20 and 40 years old. The median gestational age by dates was 12 weeks and vaginal bleeding was the most common presenting symptom (77%). A significant number of cases (52.2%) of molar pregnancy were diagnosed by routine histopathology for failed pregnancy and not by pre-evacuation ultrasound. The practice of routine assessment of tissue from failed pregnancy should therefore be encouraged in our population.

Bone mineral density in Jamaican black women after hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy: an observational study.

OBJECTIVE: To see if black Jamaican postmenopausal women who had hysterectomy were at increased risk of osteoporosis. To assess the risk of osteoporosis in hysterectomized Jamaican postmenopausal patients. METHOD: We reviewed 809 women (403 hysterectomized and 406 controls) for cardiovascular disease risk. We did a demographic history and examination looking at blood pressure, waist hip ratio and body mass index and investigations done included fasting blood glucose and total and high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. We also measured bone density at the heel in all women using the Achilles ultrasound bone densitometer looking at T-score and Z-score. RESULTS: There was a significant association of hysterectomy status and bone mineral density (BMD) status with a smaller than expected proportion of women with osteoporosis in the hysterectomy group (χ2 = 18.4; p = 0.001). The mean T-score was significantly higher in the hysterectomized women, adjusting for age, waist circumference and sociodemographic factors. The relationship between the various predictors and BMD was explored by stepwise regression modelling. The factors that were significantly related to low BMD were hysterectomy status, age, waist circumference and being employed. CONCLUSION: Hysterectomy was not found to be a significant risk factor for osteoporosis. The osteoporosis risk among menopausal women in Jamaica appears to be due to other risk factors which probably existed prior to the operation.

Comparison of ultrasonographic estimated fetal weight and actual birthweight performed by residents in training at the university hospital of the west indies.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the correlation of ultrasonographic estimation of fetal weight and actual birthweight and the impact of the level of resident's training on the results. METHODS: A prospective study of 90 women with term pregnancies. Ultrasound estimated fetal weight (EFW) was calculated by a preprogrammed Hadlock formula. Days from ultrasound to delivery were less than seven. The EFW was compared to the actual birthweight at delivery. The year of training of the resident that performed the ultrasound was recorded. Exclusion criteria included Diabetes mellitus and known fetal anomalies. RESULTS: Mean age was 28 years, parity zero to four, mean gestational age 38 weeks. There was an average over-estimation of 64.8 grams. The difference between mean EFW and mean BWT was not significant (p = 0.067). The difference between mean EFW and mean BWT when calculated according to year of residency was not significant, p = 0.075 and 0.402 for junior and senior residents, respectively. CONCLUSION: There is good correlation between resident's ultrasonographic estimation of fetal weight and actual birthweight at the UHWI. There was no significant difference in correlation between senior and junior residents. Development in computer technology might contribute to decrease in the learning curve.

Improvement in HDL cholesterol in postmenopausal women supplemented with pumpkin seed oil: pilot study.

OBJECTIVE: Pumpkin seed oil is rich in phytoestrogens and animal studies suggest that there is some benefit to supplementation in low estrogen conditions. This study is the first to evaluate the benefit of pumpkin seed oil in postmenopausal women. METHODS: This pilot study was randomized, double-blinded and placebo-controlled. Study participants included 35 women who had undergone natural menopause or had iatrogenically entered the climacteric due to surgery for benign pathology. Wheat germ oil (placebo; n = 14) and pumpkin seed oil (n = 21) were administered to eligible participants over a 12-week period at a dose of 2 g per day. Serum lipids, fasting plasma glucose and blood pressure were measured and an 18-point questionnaire regarding menopausal symptoms was administered; the atherogenic index was also calculated. Differences between groups, as well as before and after the period of supplementation, were evaluated with Student's t-test, Wilcoxon matched-pair signed-ranked test and Mann-Whitney test, as appropriate (Stata version 10.1). RESULTS: Women receiving pumpkin seed oil showed a significant increase in high density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations (0.92 ± 0.23 mmol/l vs. 1.07 ± 0.27 mmol/l; p = 0.029) and decrease in diastolic blood pressure (81.1 ± 7.94 mmHg vs. 75.67 ± 11.93 mmHg; p < 0.046). There was also a significant improvement in the menopausal symptom scores (18.1 ± 9.0 vs. 13.2 ± 6.7; p < 0.030), with a decrease in severity of hot flushes, less headaches and less joint pains being the main contributors. Women in the group receiving wheat germ oil reported being more depressed and having more unloved feeling. CONCLUSION: This pilot study showed pumpkin seed oil had some benefits for postmenopausal women and provided strong evidence to support further studies.

Cardiovascular disease risk factors in menopausal Jamaican black women after hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy: an observational study / Factores de riesgo de la enfermedad cardiovascular en mujeres negras jamaicanas en la menopausia tras histerectomía y ooforectomía bilateral: un estudio observacional

OBJECTIVE: To determine differences in prevalence of cardiovascular risks and diseases in black Jamaican postmenopausal women who had hysterectomy (hysgroup) compared with those without (control). METHOD: Eight hundred and nine (809) women (hysterectomized (HYSGRP) = 403; non-hysterectomized (controls) = 406) were enrolled. Sociodemographic information and lifestyle history, measured blood pressure, waist hip ratio, body mass index, fasting blood glucose, total and HDL cholesterol were obtained. RESULTS: Of the 809 women, complete cardiovascular risk data were available in 341 controls and 328 in the HYSGRP group. There was no difference in mean age, blood pressure and body mass indices between the subjects excluded and the subjects in the data analytical sample. A significantly lower proportion ofwomen in the control group exercised, attained post-secondary education and were of higher parity. Systolic (mean difference with 95% CI; 6 (3, 9) mmHg and diastolic (3 (1, 5) mmHg) blood pressure were lower in the HYSGRP compared with controls but total cholesterol (0.2 (0.07 to 0.4) mmol/L was greater. HDL cholesterol was not different between both groups 1.3 mmol/L (SD 0.3) vs 1.3 mmol/L [SD 0.4] (p = 0.8435). There was no difference in the prevalence of diabetes, hypertension and high waist-hip ratio in hysterectomized women compared with controls adjusting for hormone replacement therapy usage, cigarette smoking, exercise and educational status. Within the HYSGRP, there was also no difference in cardiovascular disease or risk in women who had bilateral oophorectomy compared with women who had at least an ovary preserved at time ofoperation. CONCLUSION: Hysterectomy was not associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This must be taken cautiously since data did not allow for analysis on duration of menopause.

OBJETIVO: Determinar las diferencias en la prevalencia de riesgos y enfermedades cardiovasculares en mujeres negras jamaicanas menopáusicas con histerectomía, en comparación con las que no tuvieron esta operación (control). MÉTODO: Se enrolaron ochocientas nueve (809) mujeres (histerectomizadas (HYSGRP) = 403; no histerectomizadas (controles) = 406). Se obtuvo información sobre datos demográficos e historia del estilo de vida, mediciones de la presión arterial, índice cintura/cadera, glucemia en ayunas, así como el colesterol total y HDL. RESULTADOS: De 809 mujeres, había disponible datos completos sobre el riesgo cardiovascular en 341 controles, y 328 en el grupo HYSGRP. No hubo diferencias significativas en relación con la edad promedio, la presión arterial, y el índice de masa corporal entre los sujetos excluidos y los sujetos en las muestras del análisis de datos. Una proporción significativamente menor de mujeres en el grupo de control practicado, tuvo educación post-secundaria y fueron de paridad más alta. La presión arterial sistólica (diferencia promedio con 95% CI; 6 (3 a 9 mmHg)) y la presión arterial diastólica (3 (1 a 5 mmHg)) fueron más bajas en el grupo de la histerectomía HYSGRP en comparación con el grupo de control, pero el colesterol (0.2 (0.07 a 0.4)) fue mayor. El colesterol HDL no fue diferente entre los dos grupos: 1.3 mmol/L (SD 0.3) frente a 1.3 mmol/L [SD 0.4] (p = 0.8435). No hubo diferencia en cuanto a laprevalencia de la diabetes, la hipertensión, y el alto índice cintura/cadera en las mujeres histerectomizadas, en comparación con los controles ajustándose en relación con el uso de la terapia de reemplazo hormonal, el hábito defumar, el ejercicio, y el nivel educacional. Dentro del grupo HYSGRP tampoco hubo diferencias con respecto a las enfermedades cardiovasculares o riesgos en mujeres operadas de ooforectomía bilateral, en comparación con las mujeres a las que se les preservó por lo menos un ovario en el momento de la operación. CONCLUSIÓN: La histerectomía no estuvo asociada con un aumento de riesgo de la enfermedad cardiovascular. No obstante, esta conclusión debe tomarse con cautela, ya que los datos no permitieron el análisis en el período de duración de la menopausia.

Cardiovascular disease risk factors in menopausal Jamaican black women after hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy: an observational study.

OBJECTIVE: To determine differences in prevalence of cardiovascular risks and diseases in black Jamaican postmenopausal women who had hysterectomy (hysgroup) compared with those without (control). METHOD: Eight hundred and nine (809) women (hysterectomized (HYSGRP) = 403; non-hysterectomized (controls) = 406) were enrolled. Sociodemographic information and lifestyle history, measured blood pressure, waist hip ratio, body mass index, fasting blood glucose, total and HDL cholesterol were obtained. RESULTS: Of the 809 women, complete cardiovascular risk data were available in 341 controls and 328 in the HYSGRP group. There was no difference in mean age, blood pressure and body mass indices between the subjects excluded and the subjects in the data analytical sample. A significantly lower proportion of women in the control group exercised, attained post-secondary education and were of higher parity. Systolic (mean diference with 95% CI; 6 (3, 9) mmHg and diastolic (3 (1, 5) mmHg) blood pressure were lower in the HYSGRP compared with controls but total cholesterol (0.2 (0.07 to 0.4) mmol/L was greater HDL cholesterol was not different between both groups 1.3 mmol/L (SD 0.3) vs 1.3 mmol/L [SD 0.4] (p = 0.8435). There was no difference in the prevalence of diabetes, hypertension and high waist-hip ratio in hysterectomized women compared with controls adjusting for hormone replacement therapy usage, cigarette smoking, exercise and educational status. Within the HYSGRP there was also no diference in cardiovascular disease or risk in women who had bilateral oophorectomy compared with women who had at least an ovary preserved at time of operation. CONCLUSION: Hysterectomy was not associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This must be taken cautiously since data did not allow for analysis on duration of menopause.