Meditation-based clinical study to determine the correlation of quantitative electroencephalogram (qEEG) and 24-hour EEG activity.

BACKGROUND: The heart continuously transmits information to the cerebrum during each pulse, and influences information processing such as perception, cognition, and emotion, which are processed in the cerebrum. This is the basis for the theory of oriental medicine widely used in psychiatric medicine and clinical practice, so-called Simjushinji (heart and brain) theory, that the heart controls the mind. The present study aims to analyze the correlation between heart and brain function by 24-hour active electrocardiogram and quantitative electroencephalogram (EEG) measurement under meditation. METHODS: This randomized, controlled, assessor-blinded, 2-armed, parallel, multicenter clinical trial will analyze a total of 50 subjects, including 25 each for the test group and the active control group. Subjects will be randomly allocated to the test group (performing resource mindfulness) and the control group (performing stress mindfulness) in a 1:1 ratio. The clinical trial consists of 3 stages. The first and third stages are stable states. The second stage is divided into the test and active comparator groups. Quantitative EEG (qEEG) measurements at stages 1 and 3 will be recorded for 10 minutes; measurements at stage 2 will be recorded for 20 minutes with the eyes closed. The 24-hour Holter Monitoring and heart rate variability will be evaluated at each stage. Before the beginning of stage 3, subjects will complete the questionnaires. The primary outcome will be analyzed by independent t tests of both groups. DISCUSSION: Scientific studies based on clinical epistemology are expected to serve as a basis for sustainable medical services in the field of psychiatric medicine in Korea. HRV, blood pressure index, and biometric index in qEEG, as determined by 24-hour Holter monitoring, will complement quantitative biomarkers and be useful in various fields.

Do high risk patients alter their lifestyle to reduce risk of colorectal cancer?

BACKGROUND: Colorectal cancer (CRC) may be reduced by healthy lifestyle behaviours. We determined the extent of self-reported lifestyle changes in people at increased risk of CRC, and the association of these reports with anxiety, risk and knowledge-based variables. METHODS: We randomly selected 250 participants who had undergone surveillance colonoscopy for family history of CRC. A telephone interview was conducted, recording demographics and family history. Self-reported lifestyle change due to thoughts about CRC across a range of dietary and lifestyle variables was assessed on a four-point scale. Participants' perceptions of the following were recorded: risk factor knowledge, personal risk, and worry due to family history. General anxiety was assessed using the GAD-7 scale. Ordinal logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted results. RESULTS: There were 148 participants (69% response). 79.7% reported at least one healthy change. Change in diet and physical activity were most frequently reported (fiber, 63%; fruit and vegetables, 54%; red meat, 47%; physical activity, 45%), with consumption of tobacco, alcohol, and body weight less likely (tobacco, 25%; alcohol, 26%; weight 31%). People were more likely to report healthy change with lower levels of generalized anxiety, higher worry due to family history, or greater perceived knowledge of CRC risk factors. Risk perception and risk due to family history were not associated with healthy changes. CONCLUSIONS: Self-reported lifestyle changes due to thoughts about CRC were common. Lower general anxiety levels, worries due to family history, and perceived knowledge of risk factors may stimulate healthy changes.

Perceived risks and benefits of surveillance colonoscopy in people undergoing surveillance for family history of colorectal cancer.

AIM: To determine perceived risks and benefits of colonoscopy surveillance among patients undergoing surveillance colonoscopy due to family history of colorectal cancer (CRC). METHOD: We conducted a standardised phone interview of 250 randomly selected people who had undergone surveillance colonoscopy at Dunedin Hospital. We assessed perceptions of colonoscopy effectiveness, complication rates, and CRC risk. RESULTS: We included 148 (69%) participants. Most felt well informed about surveillance (66.7%), but many wanted further information (63.2%). Most accurately estimated complication rates (discomfort: Common/Uncommon 70.3%; pain: Rare/Uncommon 58.8%; bleeding: Rare/Uncommon 72.3%; perforation: Very rare 62.8%), and benefits (mean reduction in risk of CRC 72.6% and death 76.2%). Most (55.1%) over-estimated their CRC risk. 13.5% thought perforation never occurred, and 12.8% thought colonoscopy either completely prevented, or had no effect on risk of developing or dying from CRC. Patients giving unrealistic estimates had similar demographics and clinical variables to the wider cohort. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest current surveillance education adequately communicates risks and benefits to most patients. A minority have unrealistic views and further education may be indicated.