Crowdfunding for Complementary and Alternative Cancer Treatments in Tijuana, Mexico: Content Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Complementary and alternative (CAM) cancer treatment is often expensive and not covered by insurance. As a result, many people turn to crowdfunding to access this treatment. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to identify the rationales of patients with cancer seeking CAM treatment abroad by looking specifically at crowdfunding campaigns to support CAM cancer treatment in Tijuana, Mexico. METHODS: We scraped the GoFundMe.com and GiveSendGo.com crowdfunding platforms for campaigns referencing CAM cancer clinics in Tijuana, initiated between January 1, 2022, and February 28, 2023. The authors created a coding framework to identify rationales for seeking CAM treatment in Tijuana. To supplement campaign metadata, we coded the beneficiary's cancer stage, type, age, specific treatment sought, whether the beneficiary died, gender, and race. RESULTS: Patients sought CAM cancer treatment in Tijuana because the (1) treatment offers the greatest efficacy (29.9%); (2) treatment offered domestically was not curative (23.2%); (3) the clinic treats the whole person, and addresses the spiritual dimension of the person (20.1%); (4) treatments are nontoxic, natural, or less invasive (18.2%); and (5) clinic offers the newest technology (8.5%). Campaigns raised US $5,275,268.37 and most campaign beneficiaries were women (69.7%) or White individuals (71.1%). CONCLUSIONS: These campaigns spread problematic misinformation about the likely efficacy of CAM treatments, funnel money and endorsements to CAM clinics in Tijuana, and leave many campaigners short of the money needed to pay for CAM treatments while costing beneficiaries and their loved one's time, privacy, and dignity. This study affirms that Tijuana, Mexico, is a very popular destination for CAM cancer treatment.

The challenges for early intervention and its effects on the prognosis of autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is expressed with neurobehavioral symptoms of different degrees of intensity. It is estimated that, for every three cases detected, there are two cases that reach adulthood without treatment. Objective: To establish what challenges are still present in the implementation of early intervention (EI) and its effects on the prognosis of ASD. Methods: A systematic review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (Prisma) methodology was carried out in the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases in January 2023. The search keywords were "autism spectrum disorder", "early intervention" and "prognosis". Results: Sixteen studies were included, two randomized and 14 non-randomized. Knowledge about the signs of ASD, diagnostic and therapeutic methods, age at the start of treatment, and socioeconomic factors were the main challenges encountered in the implementation of the EI. Conclusion: EI is capable of modifying the prognosis of ASD and challenges in its implementation persist, especially in developing regions with low socioeconomic status.

O transtorno do espectro autista (TEA) expressa-se com sintomas neurocomportamentais de diferentes graus de intensidade. Estima-se que, para cada três casos detectados, existam dois casos que atingem a idade adulta sem tratamento. Objetivo: Estabelecer quais são os desafios ainda presentes na implementação efetiva da intervenção precoce (IP) e quais são os seus efeitos no prognóstico do TEA. Métodos: Revisão sistemática com a metodologia Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (Prisma) foi realizada nos bancos de dados PubMed e ScienceDirect em janeiro de 2023. As palavras-chave da pesquisa foram "autism spectrum disorder", "early intervention" e "prognosis". Resultados: Dezesseis estudos foram incluídos, sendo dois randomizados e 14 não randomizados. O conhecimento sobre os sinais do TEA, os métodos diagnósticos e terapêuticos, a idade de início de tratamento e os fatores socioeconômicos foram os principais desafios encontrados na implementação da IP. Conclusão: A IP é capaz de modificar o prognóstico do TEA e os desafios em sua implementação ainda afetam, principalmente, regiões em desenvolvimento e de baixo status socioeconômico.

The challenges for early intervention and its effects on the prognosis of autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review / Os desafios para a intervenção precoce e seus efeitos no prognóstico do transtorno do espectro autista: uma revisão sistemática

ABSTRACT. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is expressed with neurobehavioral symptoms of different degrees of intensity. It is estimated that, for every three cases detected, there are two cases that reach adulthood without treatment. Objective: To establish what challenges are still present in the implementation of early intervention (EI) and its effects on the prognosis of ASD. Methods: A systematic review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (Prisma) methodology was carried out in the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases in January 2023. The search keywords were "autism spectrum disorder", "early intervention" and "prognosis". Results: Sixteen studies were included, two randomized and 14 non-randomized. Knowledge about the signs of ASD, diagnostic and therapeutic methods, age at the start of treatment, and socioeconomic factors were the main challenges encountered in the implementation of the EI. Conclusion: EI is capable of modifying the prognosis of ASD and challenges in its implementation persist, especially in developing regions with low socioeconomic status.

RESUMO. O transtorno do espectro autista (TEA) expressa-se com sintomas neurocomportamentais de diferentes graus de intensidade. Estima-se que, para cada três casos detectados, existam dois casos que atingem a idade adulta sem tratamento. Objetivo: Estabelecer quais são os desafios ainda presentes na implementação efetiva da intervenção precoce (IP) e quais são os seus efeitos no prognóstico do TEA. Métodos: Revisão sistemática com a metodologia Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (Prisma) foi realizada nos bancos de dados PubMed e ScienceDirect em janeiro de 2023. As palavras-chave da pesquisa foram "autism spectrum disorder", "early intervention" e "prognosis". Resultados: Dezesseis estudos foram incluídos, sendo dois randomizados e 14 não randomizados. O conhecimento sobre os sinais do TEA, os métodos diagnósticos e terapêuticos, a idade de início de tratamento e os fatores socioeconômicos foram os principais desafios encontrados na implementação da IP. Conclusão: A IP é capaz de modificar o prognóstico do TEA e os desafios em sua implementação ainda afetam, principalmente, regiões em desenvolvimento e de baixo status socioeconômico.

Effects of internet-based, psychosocial, and early medical interventions on professional burnout in health care workers: Systematic literature review and meta-analysis.

Background: The prevalence of professional burnout increased among healthcare workers during the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, with negative effects on their mental health. Consequently, research interest in methods to decrease the prevalence of burnout and reduce the effects of burnout on healthcare workers has increased. Objective: This study was designed to evaluate the effects of Internet-based, psychosocial, and early medical interventions on professional burnout among healthcare workers. Methodology: This systematic review and meta-analysis involved 8004 articles identified from four databases: Cochrane, Web of Science, PubMed/Medline, and clinical trials. Results: Four articles were included in the systematic review, of which two could be meta-analyzed. The pooled effect of the group of interventions compared to control conditions was not statistically significant. Discussion: Evaluating therapeutic effectiveness requires more clinical trials that allow its evaluation. Although we did not find improvements in the three intervention categories, the methodological heterogeneity in each intervention and the need for a standardized intervention guide for managing and decreasing professional burnout, subject to the evaluation of its impact, are highlighted.

Inhibition of galectins in cancer: Biological challenges for their clinical application.

Galectins play relevant roles in tumor development, progression and metastasis. Accordingly, galectins are certainly enticing targets for medical intervention in cancer. To date, however, clinical trials based on galectin inhibitors reported inconclusive results. This review summarizes the galectin inhibitors currently being evaluated and discusses some of the biological challenges that need to be addressed to improve these strategies for the benefit of cancer patients.

Intervención educativa para el afrontamiento de la hipertensión arterial en adultos mayores de Alamar

RESUMEN Fundamento: la hipertensión arterial constituye uno de los problemas médico-sanitarios más prevalentes. Las estrategias de afrontamiento y el apoyo social desempeñan un rol importante en la adaptación y manejo de esta enfermedad crónica. Objetivo evaluar la efectividad de una intervención educativa para favorecer el afrontamiento de la hipertensión arterial en adultos mayores. Método: se realizó un estudio de intervención, entre enero y marzo de 2020. El universo estuvo constituido por 253 adultos mayores hipertensos del consultorio médico de familia 19, perteneciente al Policlínico Docente Mario Escalona Reguera de Alamar. La muestra fue de tipo no probabilística y estuvo conformada por 13 pacientes. Se analizaron como variables cualitativas: conocimiento de la enfermedad, estilos de vida, autocuidado, afrontamiento, recursos personológicos, autocontrol emocional, apoyo social, comunicación y adherencia terapéutica. Se calcularon las frecuencias absolutas y porcentajes de las variables cualitativas. Resultados con la aplicación del programa de intervención educativa los ancianos lograron cumplir los objetivos propuestos en cada sesión, adquirieron nuevos conocimientos y reflexionaron sobre la necesidad de modificar estilos de vida, ejercer mayor control sobre las emociones negativas, desarrollar el autocuidado y la adherencia terapéutica, para afrontar de una mejor manera la enfermedad. Conclusiones el programa de intervención educativa fue efectivo y tuvo un progreso favorable, en tanto modificó los estilos de afrontamiento a la enfermedad identificados. Se logró de ese modo, transformar en ellos, el problema de salud sobre el cual se intervino.

Background: arterial hypertension constitutes one of the most prevalent medical-sanitary problems. Coping strategies and social support play an important role in the adaptation and management of this chronic disease. Objective: to evaluate the effectiveness of an educational intervention to promote coping with the disease in hypertensive older adults. Method: an intervention study was carried out between January and March 2020. The 253 hypertensive older adults from the family doctor's office 19, belonging to the Mario Escalona Reguera Teaching Polyclinic in Alamar, were the universe. The sample was non-probabilistic with 13 patients. Qualitative variables were analyzed: knowledge of the disease, lifestyles, self-care, coping, personological resources, emotional self-control, social support, communication and therapeutic adherence. The absolute frequencies and percentages of the qualitative variables were calculated. Results: with the application of the educational intervention program, the elderly managed to meet the objectives proposed in each session, acquired new knowledge and reflected on the need to modify lifestyles, exercise greater control over negative emotions, develop self-care and therapeutic adherence, to better cope with the disease. Conclusions: the educational intervention program was effective and had a favorable progress, while it modified the identified styles of coping with the disease. In this way, it was possible to modify in them the health problem.

Intervención educativa sobre COVID-19 en adultos mayores del Consultorio Médico de la Familia No. 4. Cumanayagua, 2020 / Educational intervention on COVID-19 in older adults of the Family Doctor´s Office No. 4. Cumanayagua, 2020

RESUMEN Fundamento la pandemia de COVID-19 causa la muerte de muchas personas, fundamentalmente adultos mayores. Conocer sobre ella es una forma de prevenirla. Objetivo describir los resultados de una intervención educativa sobre COVID-19, en adultos mayores. Métodos intervención educativa realizada en un universo constituido por 230 adultos mayores, del que se seleccionó una muestra de 178 ancianos dispensarizados pertenecientes al consultorio No. 4 del Consejo Popular Brisas, en Cumanayagua. Se realizó un diagnóstico para identificar el nivel de conocimientos sobre la COVID-19, en el que se indagó sobre aspectos acerca de la enfermedad, tales como: síntomas, medidas de prevención, vías de transmisión. También se les preguntó sobre el cumplimiento de las medidas de prevención. Sobre esa base se desarrolló una intervención educativa. Resultados el 50 % presenta factores de riesgo; el conocimiento sobre sintomatología aumentó de 10, 1 % antes de la intervención a 100 % después; sobre vías de transmisión de 35, 9 % a 83,7 % y el de las medidas preventivas de 53, 9 % a 91,7 %. Aprendieron a utilizar el nasobuco de manera correcta. La satisfacción de los adultos mayores con las acciones educativas fue alta. Conclusiones después de la aplicación de las acciones educativas existió un aumento en el conocimiento sobre la enfermedad, lo que puede ser favorable para su prevención en este grupo de ancianos.

ABSTRACT Background: the COVID 19 pandemic causes the death of many people, mainly older adults. Knowing about it is one way to prevent it. Objective: to describe the results of an educational intervention on COVId 19, in older adults Methods: educational intervention carried out in a universe of 230 older adults, from which a sample of 178 dispensed elderly people belonging to the Family Doctor´s Office No. 4 in Cumanayagua was selected. A diagnosis was made to identify the level of knowledge about COVID-19, in which aspects about the disease were investigated, such as: symptoms, prevention measures, transmission routes. They were also asked about compliance with prevention measures. On that basis, an educational intervention was developed. Results: The 50 % present risk factors; knowledge about symptoms increased from 10.1% before the intervention to 100% after; on transmission routes from 35.9 % to 83.7 % and that of preventive measures from 53.9 % to 91.7 %. They learned to use the mask correctly. The satisfaction of the elderly with the educational actions was high. Conclusions: after the application of educational actions, there was an increase in knowledge about the disease, which may be favorable for its prevention in this group of elderly.

Chequeo preventivo basado en la evidencia / Evidence-based health check

Un chequeo preventivo se define como el contacto entre un profesional de salud y una persona asintomática en el que se realizan varias pruebas de tamizaje para evaluar su salud con el objetivo de reducir la morbimortalidad. No obstante, la evidencia científica demuestra que realizar varias pruebas de tamizaje es poco probable que sea beneficioso para ese objetivo y cada examen debe ofrecerse de manera individualizada considerando riesgos y beneficios. Los objetivos de esta revisión son describir la utilidad de estos chequeos, revisar brevemente acciones preventivas y formular grados de recomendación, pudiendo así el lector reconocer las recomendaciones preventivas basadas en evidencia en un adulto sano. En el presente artículo se sintetizan recomendaciones utilizando la metodología GRADE en su formulación. Si bien la mayoría de las recomendaciones revisadas tienen evidencia de moderada a alta certeza, es importante considerar algunas distinciones al momento de ofrecer las acciones preventivas. Luego de este esfuerzo académico, queda en evidencia la necesidad de constituir una organización formal dedicada a la revisión, elaboración y actualización de recomendaciones preventivas en nuestro país, así como evaluar el impacto de estas acciones en cuanto a resultados de salud.

A general health check is defined as the contact between a health professional and an asymptomatic person where several screening tests are performed to assess general health with the aim of reducing morbidity and mortality. However, scientific evidence shows that performing several screening tests are unlikely to be beneficial for those outcomes and each test should be individualized considering risks and benefits.The objectives of this review are to describe the usefulness of these checks, briefly review preventive actions, and formulate degrees of recommendation, thus allowing the reader to recognize evidence-based preventive recommendations in a healthy adult.In this article, recommendations are synthesized using the GRADE methodology in its formulation. While most of the recommendations reviewed have moderate to high certainty evidence, it is important to consider some distinctions when offering preventive actions.After this academic effort, the need to establish a formal organization dedicated to the review, preparation and updating of preventive recommendations in our country is evident, as well as evaluating the impact of these actions in terms of health outcomes

Intervención para lograr la independencia física en los adultos mayores con esquizofrenia residual / Health intervention to achieve physical independence in older adults with residual schizophrenia

RESUMEN Fundamento: la esquizofrenia residual es un trastorno frecuente en los adultos mayores diagnosticados con esquizofrenia, enfermedad crónica, caracterizada por abulia, aplanamiento afectivo y aislamiento social. Objetivo: diseñar una intervención para lograr la independencia física en los adultos mayores con esquizofrenia residual. Métodos: se realizó un estudio de intervención y desarrollo que muestra la intervención de salud para lograr la independencia física en los adultos mayores con esquizofrenia residual del Hospital Psiquiátrico Docente de la provincia Sancti Spíritus, en el período comprendido entre septiembre 2016 a enero 2018. Variables de estudio independencia física se midió como independiente, mínimo dependiente y dependiente. Se aplicaron diferentes modalidades de rehabilitación. Se utilizó entrevista estructurada y la observación directa a los adultos mayores. Con análisis porcentual de la variable utilizada. La población estuvo constituida por 27 adultos mayores con diagnóstico de esquizofrenia residual. Se consultaron 18 expertos a los que se les aplicó el método Delphi. Resultados: la proporción de los adultos mayores que logro independencia física fue de 52,17 %, lo que obedeció a cambios de conductas generadoras de salud. Conclusiones: la intervención de salud para lograr la independencia física en los adultos mayores con esquizofrenia residual articula acciones y actividades educativas que favorecen la relación personal de salud-paciente-contexto sociocultural, para llevar la independencia física hasta una concepción sistémica que favorece el seguimiento y control de la enfermedad.

ABSTRACT Background: residual schizophrenia is a frequent disorder in older adults diagnoseds with schizophrenia, a chronic disease, characterized by apathy, affective flattening and social isolation. Objective: to design an intervention to achieve physical independence in older adults with residual schizophrenia. Methods: intervention and development study that shows the health intervention to achieve physical independence in older adults with residual schizophrenia at the Sancti Spíritus Provincial Teaching Psychiatric Hospital, in the period from September 2016 to January 2018. The physical independence Study variable was measured as independent, minimally dependent and dependent. Different rehabilitation modalities were applied. A structured interview and direct observation of the elderly were used. With percentage analysis of the variable used. The population consisted of 27 older adults with a diagnosis of residual schizophrenia. Eighteen experts to whom the Delphi method was applied were consulted. Results: the proportion of older adults who achieved physical independence was 52.17%, which was due to changes in health-generating behaviors. Conclusions: the health intervention to achieve physical independence in older adults with residual schizophrenia articulates actions and educational activities that favor the personal health-patient-sociocultural context relationship, to bring physical independence to a systemic conception that favors monitoring and disease control.

Intervención educativa sobre consecuencias del tabaquismo en adolescentes de Nuevitas / Educational intervention on the smoking consequences in adolescents from Nuevitas

RESUMEN Fundamento: el tabaquismo es un fenómeno social que afecta indistintamente a todos los sectores de la población y representa uno de los mayores problemas para las autoridades sanitarias. Se considera una epidemia de carácter universal y es una gravosa carga para el individuo, la familia y la sociedad. Objetivo: implementar una intervención educativa para modificar los conocimientos de adolescentes acerca de las consecuencias del tabaquismo. Métodos: se realizó un estudio de intervención en el Consultorio 21 del Policlínico Francisco Peña Peña, de Nuevitas, sobre 81 adolescentes que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. Se utilizó la estadística descriptiva para analizar los resultados obtenidos al aplicar la encuesta antes y después de la intervención educativa, la cual contenía las siguientes variables: grupo de edades, sexo, nivel de escolaridad, enfermedades asociadas y conocimiento sobre tabaquismo. Resultados: predominó el sexo masculino y las edades de 18 a 20 años, grupo etario que también mostró el mayor conocimiento sobre los efectos del tabaquismo. Prevaleció el nivel de escolaridad de preuniversitario. El nivel de conocimientos evaluado de bien ascendió de 49,38 % antes de la intervención a 80 % después de esta; el de regular descendió de 45,67 % a solo 19 %; al terminar la intervención ningún adolescente se ubicó en la categoría de mal. Conclusiones: se logró modificar el nivel de los conocimientos sobre los efectos nocivos del tabaquismo en adolescentes, mediante la intervención educativa.

ABSTRACT Background: smoking is a social phenomenon that affects all the population sectors indistinctly and represents one of the biggest problems for health authorities. It is considered a universal epidemic and is a heavy burden for the individual, the family and society. Objective: to carry out educational intervention to modify the adolescents' knowledge about the smoking consequences. Methods: an intervention study was carried out in the doctor´s office 21 of the Francisco Peña Peña Polyclinic, in Nuevitas, on 81 adolescents who met the inclusion criteria. Descriptive statistic was used to analyze the results obtained by applying the survey before and after the educational intervention, which contained the following variables: age group, sex, educational level, associated diseases, and knowledge about smoking. Results: male sex and ages 18 to 19 predominated, an age group that also showed the greatest knowledge about the effects of smoking. The pre-university educational level prevailed. The level of knowledge evaluated as good rose from the 49.38% before the intervention to the 80% after it; that of regular fell from the 45.67% to only the 19%; At the end of the intervention, no adolescent was placed in the category of bad. Conclusions: it was possible to modify the knowledge level about the harmful effects of smoking in adolescents, through educational intervention.

Caracterización de la mortalidad por enfermedades cardiovasculares: Cuba, 2009-2018 / Characterization of mortality from cardiovascular diseases: Cuba, 2009-2018

RESUMEN Fundamento: un tercio del total de muertes que ocurren en el mundo, por enfermedades no transmisibles, se deben a las enfermedades cardiovasculares que constituyen la primera causa de muerte a nivel mundial y en Cuba. Objetivo: caracterizar la mortalidad por enfermedades cardiovasculares en Cuba ocurridas en el período 2009-2018. Métodos: se realizó un estudio ecológico. Se utilizaron los anuarios estadísticos, publicados por el Ministerio de Salud Pública de Cuba y la Clasificación Internacional de Enfermedades (CIE-10). Se consideraron las tasas de mortalidad por enfermedades del corazón y su comportamiento por provincias, así como, las tasas de mortalidad por enfermedades del sistema circulatorio y su distribución por grupo de edades. Las tasas usadas fueron las brutas. Resultados: en Cuba las enfermedades del sistema circulatorio aportan una tasa de mortalidad entre 299,4 y 360,0 por 100 000 habitantes con tendencia al incremento. Las tasas de mortalidad para las enfermedades del corazón y de las arterias, arteriolas y vasos capilares, desde el año 2009 hasta el 2018, fueron superiores en los hombres. En cuanto a las enfermedades cerebrovasculares excedieron en las mujeres, excepto en los años 2014, 2016-2018. En el año 2013 y 2015 fueron muy similares para ambos sexos. Dentro de las enfermedades cardiovasculares las del corazón aportaron más años de vida perdidos, secundadas por las cerebrovasculares y en menor magnitud las de las arterias, arteriolas y vasos capilares. Conclusiones: las enfermedades cardiovasculares son un grave problema de salud por lo cual se hace necesario accionar sobre las causas que las originan, para ganar en la percepción de riesgo cardiovascular, en la responsabilidad de cada persona y en el auto cuidado de la salud.

ABSTRACT Background: a third of the total deaths that occur in the world, due to non-transmissible diseases, are due to cardiovascular diseases. They constitute the first cause of death worldwide and in Cuba. Objective: to characterize the mortality from cardiovascular diseases in Cuba that occurred in the period 2009-2018. Methods: an ecological study was carried out. Statistical yearbooks published by the Cuban Ministry of Public Health and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) were used. Mortality rates from heart diseases and their behavior by provinces were considered, as well as mortality rates from diseases of the circulatory system and their distribution by age group. The rates used were gross. Results: in Cuba, diseases of the circulatory system provide a mortality rate between 299.4 and 360.0 per 100 000 inhabitants with a tendency to increase. Mortality rates for diseases of the heart and arteries, arterioles, and capillaries, from 2009 to 2018, were higher in men. Regarding stroke diseases, they exceeded in women, except in the years 2014, 2016-2018. In 2013 and 2015 they were very similar for both sexes. Within cardiovascular diseases, heart diseases contributed more potentially lost years of life, supported by stroke diseases and to a lesser extent those of arteries, arterioles and capillaries. Conclusions: cardiovascular diseases continue to be a serious health problem, which is why it is necessary to act on the causes that cause them, gaining in the perception of cardiovascular risk and in the responsibility, of each person, in the self-care of the health.

Implementation of early psychosis services in Latin America: A scoping review.

AIM: The evidence of the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of early intervention for psychosis (EIP) services has motivated their implementation worldwide. However, complex interventions of such EIP services require local adaptations to successfully match population needs and cultural differences. Latin America is a heterogenous region where EIP services are progressively being adopted. Our aim is to map such initiatives in the region with a focus on implementation outcomes. METHODS: A scoping review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines was conducted. International and regional databases were searched for publications describing EIP programmes in the region. Besides mapping the services, we described implementation outcomes based on the Standards for Reporting Implementation Studies Checklist. RESULTS: Ten articles describing seven EIP initiatives from the region were found. Four countries were represented: Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Mexico. The implementation outcomes reporting was heterogenous, although it was possible to ascertain EIP services are feasible and adequate for the region's context. Also, there is some evidence of effectiveness in terms of reducing hospitalizations and improving symptoms. Information about fidelity measures was scarce and there was no information about costs or cost-effectiveness. CONCLUSIONS: Only a small proportion of Latin American countries have adopted EIP services. Although these programmes seem to be feasible and effective, data on other implementation outcomes, such as fidelity, cultural appropriateness, cost-effectiveness and affordability are not available. This might in part explain why this effective approach has not been yet scaled-up at nationwide levels.

Use of non-pharmacological interventions during urinary catheter insertion for reducing urinary tract infections in non-immunocompromised adults. A systematic review / intervenciones no farmacológicas durante la inserción de un catéter urinario permanente para reducir las infecciones en adultos inmunocompetentes. Revisión sistemática

Abstract Introduction: Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI) account for up to 30% of hospital -acquired infections. In this regard, several studies have reported the use of non-pharmacological interventions during urinary catheter insertion aimed at reducing the occurrence rate of CAUTI. Objective: To assess the safety and effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions during urinary catheter insertion aimed at reducing the risk of contracting infections in non-immunocompromised adults. Materials and methods: A literature review was conducted in the MEDLINE, Embase, and LILACS databases. Only randomized clinical trials comparing the use of non-pharmacological interventions to placebos, pharmacological interventions, or no intervention during catheter insertion were included. Results: Eight studies were retrieved (8 718 participants). Based on the evidence found in the review (low-quality and very low-quality evidence according to the GRADE system), using non-pharmacological interventions reduces the frequency of asymptomatic bacteriuria episodes (RR 0.67, 95%CI 0.48-0.94; 7 studies) or mild adverse events (RR 0.84, 95%CI 0.74-0.96; 2 studies), but does not reduce the occurrence rate of symptomatic urinary tract infections (RR 0.90, 95%CI 0.61-1.35; 4 studies) or improves quality-of-life scores (MD -0.01 EQ-5D scale; 95%CI (-0.03)-(0.01), 1 study). Conclusion: The use of non-pharmacological interventions during urinary catheter insertion does not pose any risk at all. Instead, it could help reduce the occurrence rate of infections associated with this procedure, such as asymptomatic bacteriuria and mild adverse events. However, there is very little evidence (in fact, low and very low-quality evidence) to make conclusions on the effectiveness of these interventions.

Resumen Introducción. La infección asociada al catéter urinario es responsable de hasta un 30% de las infecciones nosocomiales. Al respecto, se ha descrito el uso de intervenciones no farmacológicas durante la inserción del catéter urinario para reducir la frecuencia de infecciones asociadas. Objetivo. Evaluar la seguridad y la efectividad de intervenciones no farmacológicas durante la inserción del catéter urinario diseñadas para reducir el riesgo de infección en adultos inmunocompetentes. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó una búsqueda en las bases de datos MEDLINE, Embase y LILACS. Se incluyeron ensayos clínicos aleatorizados que compararan el uso de intervenciones no farmacológicas con el uso de placebos, el uso de intervenciones farmacológicas o la ausencia de intervención durante la inserción del catéter. Resultados. Se encontraron ocho estudios (8 718 participantes). Con base en la evidencia encontrada (baja y muy baja calidad según la clasificación del sistema GRADE), el uso de intervenciones no farmacológica reduce la frecuencia de bacteriuria asintomática (RR 0.67; IC95%: 0.48-0.94; 7 estudios) o de eventos adversos menores (RR 0.84, IC95%: 0.74-0.96; 2 estudios), pero no disminuye la tasa de infecciones sintomáticas del tracto urinario (RR 0.90; IC95%: 0.61 a 1.35; 4 estudios), ni mejora las puntuaciones de calidad de vida (escala MD -0.01 EQ-5D, IC95%: (-0.03)-(0.01), 1 estudio). Conclusión. El uso de intervenciones no farmacológicas durante la inserción del catéter urinario no supone riesgo alguno y sí podría ayudar a disminuir la frecuencia infecciones asociadas a este procedimiento, tales como la bacteriuria asintomática y eventos adversos menores; sin embargo, hay poca evidencia, y de baja o muy baja calidad, para llegar a conclusiones sobre su efectividad.

Controversias en el manejo de la colecistitis aguda tardía / Controversies in the management of late acute cholecystitis

La colecistitis aguda es la inflamación de la vesícula biliar, en la mayoría de los casos, explicada por la presencia de cálculos mixtos o de colesterol que producen obstrucción y desencadenan factores inflamatorios diversos. La colecistectomía por vía laparoscópica se ha convertido en su tratamiento estándar y definitivo. El procedimiento quirúrgico debe realizarse idealmente en las primeras 72 horas después de iniciados los síntomas, lo que habitualmente se denomina como cuadro agudo. Existe controversia sobre cuál es el manejo más adecuado cuando han pasado más de 72 horas del inicio de los síntomas, condición denominada 'colecistitis aguda tardía', cuando se considera que el proceso inflamatorio es mayor y, el procedimiento, técnicamente más complejo y peligroso.Para esta condición, se han establecido dos estrategias iniciales de manejo: la cirugía temprana ­durante la hospitalización inicial­ o el tratamiento conservador con antibióticos para la supuesta resolución completa de la inflamación, es decir, 'enfriar el proceso'; varias semanas después, se practica una colecistectomía laparoscópica tardía ­diferida o electiva­. Existen muchas publicaciones sobre ambas estrategias, en las que se exponen los beneficios y probables complicaciones de cada una; en la actualidad, se sigue debatiendo sobre el momento óptimo para practicar la intervención quirúrgica. Los trabajos más recientes y con mayor peso epidemiológico, resaltan los beneficios de la cirugía temprana pues, aunque las complicaciones intraoperatorias ocurren en las mismas proporciones, la cirugía en la hospitalización inicial reduce los costos, los reingresos y los tiempos hospitalarios.Después de revisar la literatura disponible a favor y en contra, este artículo pretende recomendar el procedi-miento temprano, inclusive cuando hayan pasado más de tres días de iniciados los síntomas y, solo en casos muy seleccionados, diferir la cirugía (AU)

Acute cholecystitis is the inflammation of the gallbladder, in most cases explained by the presence of mixed or cholesterol stones that produce obstruction by triggering various inflammatory factors; for its definitive management, laparoscopic cholecystectomy became the gold standard, the surgical procedure should ideally be performed within the first 72 hours after the onset of symptoms, which is usually referred to as acute condition; There are controversies in what is the most appropriate management when more than 72 hours have elapsed from the onset of symptoms, a condition called late acute cholecystitis, at which time the inflammatory process is commonly believed to be greater and the procedure more technically complex and dangerous.For this condition, two management strategies have been defined, which consist of early surgery (during index hospitalization) versus initial conservative antibiotic treatment for the supposed complete resolution of the inflammation "cooling the process", followed by a late laparoscopic cholecystectomy several weeks later (deferred, elective); For both strategies, there is abundant literature exposing the benefits and probable complications that concern each one, but at the present time the optimal moment to practice the surgical intervention is still being debated. The most recent works show some benefits in favor of early surgery, since although intraoperative complications occur in the same proportions, surgery in the index hospitalization reduces costs, readmissions, and hospital times. The present article, reviewing the wide literature available for and against, has as main objective to recommend this procedure early, even when more than three days of symptoms have passed, and only in very selected cases, defer surgery (AU)

Resultados de una intervención para la mejora del control de la hipertensión arterial en cuatro áreas de salud / Results of an Intervention for Improving Arterial Hypertension Control in Four Health Areas

Fundamento: las enfermedades no transmisibles representan uno de los mayores desafíos para la salud y el desarrollo en el siglo XXI. La hipertensión arterial constituye enfermedad y factor de riesgo clave para el desarrollo de otras enfermedades. Objetivo: mostrar los resultados obtenidos luego de la implementación de una intervención educativa destinada a mejorar el control y manejo de la presión arterial en cuatro áreas de salud. Métodos: se realizó un estudio de casos y controles post intervención durante el 2014 en cuatro áreas de salud, dos pertenecientes al municipio Santiago de Cuba y dos de Cárdenas. Se estudiaron 1404 pacientes hipertensos mayores de 18 años, los cuales fueron seleccionados por medio de un muestreo por conglomerados bietápico. Se analizaron como variables sociodemográficas (área de salud, edad, sexo, color de la piel, nivel de escolaridad, estado civil y ocupación) y como variables clínicas (control de la presión arterial, adherencia al tratamiento y percepción de estado de salud), así como nivel de conocimientos sobre la enfermedad. La información se calculó en números absolutos, porcentajes e intervalos de confianza al 95 %. Se evaluó la posible asociación entre variables por la existencia de significación estadística (α= 0,05) mediante la prueba de Chi cuadrado de Pearson. Resultados: se logró un mayor porcentaje de hipertensos controlados (65,0 %) y adheridos al tratamiento (64,9 %), el nivel de conocimiento se incrementó (50,9 %), así como la percepción de un buen estado de salud (67,2 %) en comparación al 2013. Los resultados fueron más alentadores en los grupos que fueron intervenidos. Conclusión: el programa de intervención demostró ser efectivo al lograr incrementar los niveles de adherencia terapéutica y control de los pacientes.

Foundation: non-transmissible diseases represent one of the highest challenges for health and development in the XXI century. Arterial hypertension is a disease and a key risk factor fro developing other diseases. Objective: to show the results after the implementation of an educative intervention from promoting the control and management of arterial tension in four health areas. Methods: it was used a case and control study post- intervention during 2014 in four health areas, two belonging to the Santiago de Cuba municipality and two of Cardenas. A number of 1404 patients older than 18 years were studied, who were selected by bi-stage conglomerate sampling. Socio-demographic variables such as health area, age, sex, skin color, level of schooling, marital status and occupation were analyzed. The clinical variables analyzed were control of arterial tension, treatment compliance, and perception of the health condition, so as knowledge of the disease. The information was calculated in absolute numbers, percentages and confidence intervals of 95 %. It was evaluated the possible association among variables by the existence of the statistic significance (α= 0,05) by the Square-chi Pearson Test. Results: a higher percentage of controlled hypertensive patients was achieved (65,0 %) and with treatment compliance (64,9 %), the level of knowledge about the disease was increased (50,9 %) so as the perception of good health condition (67,2 %) in comparison to 2013. The results were more encouraging in the groups which were intervened. Conclusion: the program of intervention demonstrated to be effective at achieving the increase of levels of treatment compliance and patient controls.

Terapia ocupacional en unidad de cuidados intensivos / Occupational Therapy in the Intensive Care Unit

Resumen Introducción. Desde su inicio, la terapia ocupacional ha actuado en ambientes intrahospitalarios. En la actualidad, una de las metas para la consolidación de campos de conocimiento, atención y prospectiva es profundizar en la intervención que realiza el respectivo profesional en la unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI). Objetivo. Mostrar la evidencia científica de la intervención de terapia ocupacional en una UCI de adulto a través de una revisión bibliográfica entre el 2010 y 2015, durante la cual se analizaron las categorías de evaluación, modalidades de intervención y resultados. Materiales y métodos. Estudio de carácter investigativo mixto, el cual busca especificar las fuentes teóricas y prácticas que relacionan los términos de la investigación. Además, se realizó un proceso de análisis selectivo a partir de los intereses y la significancia. Resultados. La terapia ocupacional hace una caracterización de las actividades basándose en la movilización, cambios posicionales, actividades de la vida diaria, estimulación, ferulaje, tecnología de asistencia, entre otras; además trae beneficios como reducción de estancia, complicaciones y costos. Conclusión. Se evidencia la importancia del trabajo del terapeuta ocupacional en la UCI de adulto, pues beneficios como reducción de la estancia y mejora funcional de las personas, al momento del egreso, son claros en las investigaciones internacionales.

Abstract Introduction: Historically, occupational therapy has had an active role in the hospital environment. Today, one of its main goals for the consolidation of the fields of knowledge, care and future development is to strengthen the intervention of professionals in the intensive care unit (ICU). Objective: To expose scientific evidence related to the role of occupational therapy in an adult ICU by conducting a literature review of publications made between 2010 and 2015, in order to analyze the assessment and intervention categories. Materials and methods: Mixed research study, which seeks to specify the theoretical and practical sources related to the terms of the study. In addition, a selective analysis process was carried out based on interests and significance. Results: Occupational therapy characterizes activities based on mobilization, positional changes, activities of daily living, stimulation, feruling, and assistive technology, among others. It also brings benefits such as the reduction of in-hospital stay, complications and costs. Conclusion: The relevance of the work of occupational therapists in the adult ICU is evident since it brings benefits such as reduced stay and functional improvement of patients at discharge, which are clearly defined in different research works worldwide.

A proposta de um plano de ação para redução do estresse em enfermeiros universitários / The proposal for a plan of action for reducing stress in nurses at a university hospital

O estudo objetivou identificar as situações geradoras de estresse no dia a dia dos enfermeiros que trabalham em setores de internação (enfermarias) e a partir destas situações propor a instituição um plano de ação visando reduzir o nível de estresse relacionado ao trabalho. Pesquisa descritiva de abordagem quantitativa, realizada em um Hospital Universitário, com 20 enfermeiros utilizando o Inventário de Estresse em Enfermeiros (IEE). Os problemas identificados que colocam os profissionais frente ao estresse foram agrupados em: insuficiência de recursos materiais e humanos, limitações físicas, indefinição das atividades do enfermeiro e falta de educação continuada. Todas as ações propostas foram divididas em curto, médio e longo prazo e causarão alto impacto no dia a dia do profissional. Nas ações de curto prazo destaca-se o incentivo as reuniões semanais. Em médio prazo a criação de locais para refeições e descanso e em longo prazo a educação continuada para atualização e capacitação dos profissionais. As propostas de intervenção irão criar mudanças no ambiente de trabalho e consequentemente no profissional. Este estudo é voltado não somente para os gestores hospitalares, mas também aos profissionais na busca de proporcionar um ambiente de trabalho menos desgastante e mais produtivo

The objective of this study was to identify the stress-generating situations in the daily routine of nurses working in hospitalization (wards) and from these situations propose the institution a plan of action in order to reduce the level of stress related to work. Descriptive research of a quantitative approach, carried out in a University Hospital, with 20 nurses, using the Inventory of Stress in Nurses (IEE). The identified problems that put the professionals in front of the stress were grouped in: insufficient material and human resources, physical limitations, lack of definition of nurses' activities, and lack of continuing education. All the actions proposed were divided in short, medium and long term and both of them will have a high impact on the professional's daily life. The highlights in the short-term actions is to incentive weekly meetings. In the medium term the creation of places for meals and rest and in the long term the continuing education for updating and qualification professionals. The intervention proposals will create changes in the work environment and consequently in the professional. This study is aimed not only at hospital managers, but also at professionals seeking to provide a less stressful and more productive work environment

Efectos cardiovasculares de un protocolo de reacondicionamiento físico en pacientes críticos de tres centros asistenciales en Bogotá, Colombia / Cardiovascular effects as a result of a physical conditioning protocol on a critical care in- patient, at three medical centers in Bogotá - Colombia

El síndrome de desacondicionamiento físico es una complicación frecuente en los pacientes con reposo prolongado; su principal característica es la atrofia muscular que afecta principalmente las fibras musculares tipo II y se asocia a un daño de la placa neuromuscular. Esto conlleva a múltiples alteraciones metabólicas y sistémicas, como la dificultad para abandonar la ventilación mecánica, la fatiga, el retorno tardío a las actividades de la vida cotidiana y períodos de rehabilitación prolongados. El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo describir los cambios cardiovasculares en pacientes hospitalizados en unidades de cuidado intensivo, al aplicar un protocolo de actividad física dirigida como parte de la rehabilitación. Se trata de un estudio descriptivo tipo serie de casos que se realizó en tres unidades de cuidado intensivo de tipo polivalente durante un año con una muestra de 23 pacientes que tuvieron una estancia superior a 72 horas y que como parte del manejo recibieron ventilación mecánica. Se evaluaron como parámetros cardiovasculares la presión arterial y la frecuencia cardíaca antes, durante y después de cada una de las cargas aplicadas, las cuales fueron ajustadas por un especialista en medicina de la actividad física y del deporte de acuerdo a la evolución clínica y posteriormente registradas en una escala del uno al treinta y dos. Se analizaron los datos de las variables cardiovasculares por medio de estadísticas no paramétricas sin encontrar diferencias significativas concluyendo que en pacientes críticos, la utilización de cargas orientadas por parte del especialista idóneo, no tiene efecto cardiovascular considerable y puede mantenerse como parte de los protocolos de rehabilitación. MÉD.UIS. 2016;29(2):161-73.

The deconditioning syndrome is a frequent complication among prolonged hospital in-staying patients. It is composed by muscle atrophy which mainly affects type II fibers and it is associated with a neuromuscular junction damage. All this leads to many metabolic and systemic alterations, standing out mechanic ventilation weaning difficulty, fatigue, late return to daily activities and prolonged rehabilitation periods. The purpose was to describe the cardiovascular changes in Intensive Care Unit patients, once a guided physical activity protocol took place as part of the rehabilitation. It is a one year series of cases - descriptive study that took place in three polyvalent type - Intensive Care Units, with a sample of above 72 hours in-stay 23 patients which were having mechanical ventilation support simultaneously. As cardiovascular parameters where checked blood pressure and heart rate at three different times: before, during and after each one of the physical activity loads which were adjusted by a physical and sports medicine physician according to the clinical progress and registered according a 1 to 32 load scale. Cardiovascular data was analyzed with non-parametrical statistics. No significant differences were found; concluding that among in-stay critical care patients, idoneus specialist guided physical activity loads, have no considerable cardiovascular effect and can be kept as a part of a rehabilitation protocol. MÉD.UIS. 2016;29(2):161-73.

Fragilidad en el adulto mayor: detección, intervención en la comunidad y toma de decisiones en el manejo de enfermedades crónicas / Frailty in older adults: detection, community-based intervention, and decision-making in the management of chronic illnesses

RESUMEN La fragilidad física constituye "un síndrome médico con múltiples causas y factores que contribuyen a su desarrollo, caracterizado por la disminución de la fuerza, resistencia y funciones fisiológicas reducidas, que aumentan la vulnerabilidad de un individuo en el desarrollo de la dependencia funcional y/o su muerte". Existen diferentes procesos fisiopatológicos multisistémicos involucrados en la patogénesis del síndrome de fragilidad, siendo uno de los más importantes la pérdida de masa muscular asociada al envejecimiento o sarcopenia. Diversos estudios indican que la fragilidad física se incrementa con la edad. El ejercicio físico constituye la mejor forma de intervención en la prevención y tratamiento de la fragilidad. En el adulto mayor con enfermedades crónicas identificar la fragilidad es muy importante para la toma de decisiones, individualizando el manejo y considerando sus valores y preferencias de cuidado.

Physical fragility is defined as "a medical syndrome with multiple causes and factors that contribute to its development and that is characterized by decreased strength and resistance as well as reduced physiological functioning, which increase an individual's vulnerability to functional dependence or death." Different multi-systemic pathophysiological processes are involved in the pathogenesis of frailty syndrome, one of the most important being the loss of muscle mass associated with aging or sarcopenia. Several studies have demonstrated that physical frailty increases with age. Physical exercise is the best form of intervention for preventing and treating frailty. In older adults with chronic illnesses, identifying frailty is very important for decision-making, individualizing management, and considering their values and care preferences.