Pan-American prevalence of smokeless tobacco use and association with oral potentially malignant disorders and head and neck cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of smokeless tobacco (SLT) use and its association with oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) and head and neck cancer (HNC) in the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO) region. STUDY DESIGN: A literature search was conducted across 9 databases and other sources. The eligibility criteria were pediatric (0-18 years old) and adult (19 years and older) populations consuming any type of SLT. Meta-analysis was performed to determine the prevalence of SLT and the association between its use and OPMDs/HNC in the PAHO region; the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation tool was used to verify the certainty of evidence. RESULTS: Fifty-nine studies from 6 PAHO countries were included, of which 51 were also subjected to quantitative analysis. The pooled SLT prevalence of use was 15% (95%CI: 11.93-18.69) overall, 17% (95%CI: 13.25-22.65) in adults, and 11% (95%CI: 8.54-14.78) in the pediatric population. The highest reported SLT prevalence of use was 33.4% (95%CI: 27.17-39.93) in Venezuela. HNC was positively associated with SLT use (OR = 1.98, 95%CI: 1.54-2.55), with a moderate certainty of evidence. Among OPMDs, only leukoplakia reported a positive association with SLT use (OR = 8.38; 95%CI: 1.05-67.25). However, the quality of the evidence was very low. CONCLUSION: A high consumption of SLT use, chewing tobacco and snuff, is reported among the adult population residing in the PAHO region with a positive association with the development of oral leukoplakia and HNC.

Association of genetic polymorphism of glutathione S-transferases with colorectal cancer susceptibility in snuff (Naswar) addicts.

The current study aimed to investigate the relationship between polymorphisms in detoxifying (GSTM1, GSTT1, and GSTP1) genes and their association with colorectal cancer (CRC) in tobacco addicts of Pashtun ethnicity. Polymorphisms in the selected genes were genotyped in a case-control study consisting of 100 histologically confirmed male CRC patients and 100 birth-year and gender-matched healthy controls using the PCR-RFLP method. The GSTM1 null, and GSTT1 null genotypes were significantly contributed to the risk of CRC in the cases (OR= 3.131, 95% CI: 1.451-6.758, P = 0.004, and OR= 3.541, 95% CI: 1.716-7.306, P = 0.001, respectively), whereas the association observed for GSTP1 Val/Val (1.139, 95% CI: 0.356-3.644, P = 0.826) did not show statistical significance. The combined GSTM1 null and GSTT1 null showed a 41-fold increased risk (95% CI: 4.945-351.950, P = 0.001), while, the combined GSTM1 null and GSTP1 Ile/Val or Val/Val variant genotypes exhibited about 3-fold (95% CI: 1.196-7.414, P = 0.019) increased risk to CRC. Similarly, the combined GSTT1 null and GSTP1 Ile/Val or Val/Val variant genotypes showed about a 3-fold (95% CI: 1.285-8.101, P = 0.013) increased risk of CRC. In the combination of three GST genotypes, the GSTM1 null, GSTT1 null, and GSTP1 Ile/Val or Val/Val variant genotypes demonstrated a more than a 22-fold (95% CI: 2.441-212.106, P = 0.006) increased risk of CRC. Our findings suggest that GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphism and its combination with GSTP1 may be associated with CRC susceptibility in the Naswar addicted Pashtun population of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.

Prevalence and trends in tobacco use among adolescents aged 13-15 years in 143 countries, 1999-2018: findings from the Global Youth Tobacco Surveys.

BACKGROUND: Tobacco use is a leading preventable cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Little is known about recent prevalence and trends in tobacco use among adolescents globally. We aimed to assess the recent global prevalence of tobacco use in young adolescents and the secular trends in prevalence between 1999 and 2018. METHODS: We used the most recent Global Youth Tobacco Surveys data on adolescents aged 13-15 years from 143 countries or territories that had done at least one survey between Jan 1, 2010, and Dec 31, 2018, to assess the recent prevalence of tobacco use; and data from 140 countries that had done two or more surveys between Jan 1, 1999, and Dec 31, 2018, to assess the trends in the prevalence of tobacco use. FINDINGS: 530 234 adolescents were included from the 143 countries that had done at least one survey between 2010 and 2018. 1 192 312 adolescents were included from the 140 countries that had done two or more surveys between 1999 and 2018. The most recent global prevalence of cigarette smoking was 11·3% (95% CI 10·3-12·3) in boys and 6·1% (5·6-6·6) in girls, based on cigarette smoking on at least 1 day during the past 30 days, 6·0% (5·5-6·6) and 2·6% (2·4-2·9) based on smoking on at least 3 days, and 4·2% (3·8-4·6) and 1·6% (1·4-1·8) based on smoking on at least 6 days. The most recent prevalence of the use of tobacco products other than cigarettes (eg, chewing tobacco, snuff, dip, cigars, cigarillos, pipe, electronic cigarettes) on at least 1 day during the past 30 days was 11·2% (9·9-12·6) in boys and 7·0% (6·4-7·7) in girls. The most recent prevalence of any tobacco use on at least 1 day during the past 30 days was 17·9% (16·1-19·6) in boys and 11·5% (10·5-12·4) in girls. The prevalence of cigarette smoking on at least 1 day during the past 30 days decreased between the first and last surveys in 80 (57·1%) of 140 countries, was unchanged in 39 countries (27·9%), and increased in 21 countries (15·0%). However, the prevalence of the use of tobacco products other than cigarettes was unchanged or increased in 81 (59·1%) of 137 countries. INTERPRETATION: The global prevalence of tobacco use among adolescents aged 13-15 years was substantial. Although the prevalence of cigarette smoking decreased over time in the majority of countries, the prevalence of the use of other tobacco products increased or did not change in the majority of countries during the past two decades. These findings re-emphasise the need to strengthen tobacco control efforts among young adolescents globally. FUNDING: Shandong University.

Oral Health Consequences of Use of Smokeless Tobacco in North India: A Cross-Sectional Survey

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the effects of commonly used smokeless tobacco forms on oral health at habitual placement sites of smokeless tobacco compared to non-placement sites among the North Indian population. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 542 individuals using smokeless tobacco recruited from the outpatient wing of the Dental College. Subjects completed a questionnaire and received an oral examination. Periodontal pocket depth, gingival index, plaque index, gingival recession, and oral mucosal changes were assessed. Kendal's Tau test, paired t-test, and chi-square test were carried out to compare different variables among placement and non-placement sites. Results: Most of the subjects were male, reporting an average of 11.26 years of SLT use. Clinical inflammation of gingiva was significantly greater (p=0.01) at placement-sites (1.64 ± 0.53) of SLT in comparison to non-placement-sites (1.40 ± 0.41). The difference in the GR and PPD at placement and non-placement-sites was also statistically significant with p=0.002 and p=0.001, respectively. Clinically, the majority of subjects had mucosal changes at the placement sites, and a statistically significant association (p=0.034) was observed between the duration of the use of smokeless tobacco and the mucosal changes. Conclusion: Smokeless tobacco use predisposes to increased risk of periodontal diseases and oral mucosal changes at the placement sites in an individual due to the local irritant effect.

The effect of Maras powder and smoking on the microRNA deregulation of oral mucosa.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the effects of Maras powder (a type of smokeless tobacco obtained from Nicotiana rustica Linn and mixed with the ashes of wood, especially from oak, walnut or grapevine) on the microRNA (miRNA) deregulation of oral mucosa, and it compares these effects with those of smoking. METHODOLOGY: Oral mucosal samples were collected from 74 patients, consisting of 16 nonusers, 26 smokers, and 32 Maras powder users. Genes associated with oral cancer were selected and 90 microRNAs targeting these genes were identified. MicroRNA were isolated and purified using the microRNA isolation kit. MicroRNA were expressed using Fluidigm RT-PCR. RESULTS: A positive correlation between the duration of Maras powder use with miR-31 expression levels, and a negative correlation between the Maras powder chewing time and miR-372 expression levels was found. In addition, there is a negative correlation between the amount of Maras powder consumed and expression levels of miR-375, miR-378a, miR-145, and miR-10b; moreover, another negative correlation is observed between the number of cigarettes consumed and the expression levels of miR-23a, miR-23b, miR-203a, miR-200b, and miR-375. However, miR-200b and miR-92a levels were downregulated significantly more in Maras powder users when compared with smokers and nonusers (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The results show both chewing Maras powder and smoking have an effect on deregulation of miR-200b and miR-92a expressions. This leads to the belief that assessing the expression of these two miRNAs is a promising noninvasive method of analysis, especially in mutagen exposures. Finally, large-scale and high-throughput studies may help to identify an extensive miRNA expression profile associated with tobacco use and improve the understanding of oral malignancies.

The effect of Maras powder and smoking on the microRNA deregulation of oral mucosa

Abstract Objective This study aimed to investigate the effects of Maras powder (a type of smokeless tobacco obtained from Nicotiana rustica Linn and mixed with the ashes of wood, especially from oak, walnut or grapevine) on the microRNA (miRNA) deregulation of oral mucosa, and it compares these effects with those of smoking. Methodology Oral mucosal samples were collected from 74 patients, consisting of 16 nonusers, 26 smokers, and 32 Maras powder users. Genes associated with oral cancer were selected and 90 microRNAs targeting these genes were identified. MicroRNA were isolated and purified using the microRNA isolation kit. MicroRNA were expressed using Fluidigm RT-PCR. Results A positive correlation between the duration of Maras powder use with miR-31 expression levels, and a negative correlation between the Maras powder chewing time and miR-372 expression levels was found. In addition, there is a negative correlation between the amount of Maras powder consumed and expression levels of miR-375, miR-378a, miR-145, and miR-10b; moreover, another negative correlation is observed between the number of cigarettes consumed and the expression levels of miR-23a, miR-23b, miR-203a, miR-200b, and miR-375. However, miR-200b and miR-92a levels were downregulated significantly more in Maras powder users when compared with smokers and nonusers (p<0.05). Conclusion The results show both chewing Maras powder and smoking have an effect on deregulation of miR-200b and miR-92a expressions. This leads to the belief that assessing the expression of these two miRNAs is a promising noninvasive method of analysis, especially in mutagen exposures. Finally, large-scale and high-throughput studies may help to identify an extensive miRNA expression profile associated with tobacco use and improve the understanding of oral malignancies.

The synergistic effect of tobacco and alcohol consumption on oral squamous cell carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: This systematic review (SR) aimed to summarise and critically appraise available evidence about the association between the synergistic consumption of alcohol and tobacco and the occurrence of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Observational studies investigating the association between the synergistic consumption of alcohol and tobacco and OSCC occurrence were included. Studies were selected in a two-phase process and searches were conducted on five main electronic databases, complemented by three grey literature databases. RESULTS: From 3260 records identified, 33 articles were included for qualitative analysis, of which 15 were included in the meta-analyses. Overall, the synergistic consumption was positively associated with the occurrence of OSCC (odds ratio [OR] = 5.37; 95% confidence interval [95%CI] = 3.54-8.14). Increased odds for OSCC occurrence were observed regarding the synergistic consumption of alcohol and smoked tobacco (OR = 4.74; 95%CI = 3.51-6.40), alcohol and smokeless tobacco (OR = 7.78; 95%CI = 2.86-21.14), and alcohol, smoked tobacco, and smokeless tobacco (OR = 16.17; 95%CI = 7.97-32.79). CONCLUSIONS: According to the results of this SR, the synergistic consumption of alcohol and tobacco (both smoked and smokeless) significantly increased the odds for the occurrence of OSCC. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The knowledge provided by this SR may be useful for a better understanding of differences in the effect of synergistic consumption of alcohol and tobacco products in OSCC development. These data might aid healthcare authorities to develop measures for tobacco and alcohol control considering the needs of their population.

Consumo de tabaco en adultos y cumplimiento de la legislación antitabaco en Costa Rica en 2015

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Estimar para 2015 el consumo tabaco en adultos y el cumplimiento de las disposiciones incluidas en la Ley General de Control del Tabaco y sus Efectos Nocivos en la Salud y su reglamento. Métodos. Se realizó un estudio transversal utilizando la Encuesta Global de Tabaquismo en Adultos (GATS) en hogares, con representación nacional basada en un muestreo probabilístico en tres etapas, por sexo y zona de residencia. Resultados. Se visitaron 9 632 hogares donde se realizaron 8 607 entrevistas individuales. La tasa de respuesta fue 89%. Los fumadores actuales fueron 8,9% (IC95%: 8,1-9,8). La prevalencia en hombres fue 13,4% (12,0-15,0), en mujeres, 4,4% (3,7-5,2), en las zonas urbanas, 9,6% (8,5-10,7), en las rurales, 7,1% (6,2-8,2), y la media de la edad de inicio y la de cigarrillos fumados cada día, 16,1 años (15,6-16,6) y 13,4 cigarrillos al día (12,2-14,7), respectivamente. El grupo de 45 a 64 años presentó la mayor prevalencia: 10,4% (9,0-12,0). El 47,5% de los entrevistados nunca había oído hablar de cigarrillos electrónicos, el 6,3% había estado expuesto al humo del tabaco en el lugar de trabajo y 7,9%, en restaurantes. Conclusiones. Esta encuesta brindó información política y sanitaria relevante para la vigilancia, la asistencia sanitaria y el control de la legislación antitabaco del país. Debe hacerse un mayor esfuerzo para que se cumplan todas las obligaciones establecidas en la Ley 9028, y los resultados se mantendrán vigentes hasta la segunda encuesta GATS en 2020.

[ABSTRACT]. Objective. Estimate tobacco use in adults in 2015 and observance of the provisions of the General Law for the Control of Tobacco and its Harmful Effects on Health and its regulations. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted using the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) in homes, with national representation based on a three-stage probabilistic sample by sex and area of residence. Results. Visits were made to 9 632 homes where 8 607 individual interviews were conducted; the response rate was 89%. Current smokers were 8.9% (95% CI: 8.1-9.8). Prevalence in men was 13.4% (12.0-15.0), and in women, 4.4% (3.7-5.2); in urban areas, 9.6% (8.5-10.7), in rural areas, 7.1% (6.2-8.2); and mean age of smoking initiation and mean number of cigarettes smoked per day, 16.1 years (15.6-16.6) and 13.4 (12.2- 14.7), respectively. Prevalence was highest in the group aged 45 to 64 years: 10.4% (9.0-12.0); 47.5% of interviewees had never heard of electronic cigarettes; and 6.3% had been exposed to tobacco smoke in the workplace and 7.9% in restaurants. Conclusions. This survey yielded policy and health information relevant to surveillance, health care, and enforcement of Costa Rica’s antismoking legislation. Greater effort is needed to ensure that all obligations under Law 9028 are met, and that the results will remain in place until the second GATS in 2020.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Estimar para o ano de 2015 o consumo de tabaco em adultos e o cumprimento das disposições contidas na Lei Geral de Controle do Tabaco e dos Efeitos Nocivos à Saúde e da respectiva regulamentação. Métodos. Um estudo transversal foi realizado baseado na pesquisa domiciliar Global Adult Tobacco Survey (pesquisa global de consumo de tabaco em adultos, GATS), com representatividade nacional a partir de amostragem probabilística em três etapas, estratificada por sexo e área de residência. Resultados. Foram visitados 9.632 domicílios e realizadas 8.607 entrevistas individuais. A taxa de resposta foi de 89%. O percentual de fumantes atuais foi de 8,9% (IC 95% 8,1-9,8). A prevalência do consumo de tabaco no sexo masculino foi de 13,4% (12,0–15,0); no sexo feminino, 4,4% (3,7–5,2); nas áreas urbanas, 9,6% (8,5–10,7) e nas áreas rurais, 7,1% (6,2–8,2). A média da idade de início do consumo de tabaco foi 16,1 anos (15,6–16,6) e a média de consumo foi de 13,4 cigarros ao dia (12,2–14,7). A prevalência maior de consumo de tabaco foi observada em indivíduos de 45 a 64 anos (10,4%; 9,0–12,0). Um percentual de 47,5% dos participantes da pesquisa nunca havia ouvido falar de cigarros eletrônicos e 6,3% haviam sido expostos à fumaça do cigarro no local de trabalho e 7,9%, em restaurantes. Conclusões. A pesquisa proporcionou aporte de importância política e de saúde à vigilância, assistência de saúde e controle da legislação antifumo do país. Faz-se necessário um esforço maior para que todas as disposições estabelecidas na Lei 9028 sejam cumpridas. E os resultados continuarão vigentes até a próxima rodada da pesquisa GATS em 2020.

Reduced-Risk Warnings Versus the US FDA-Mandated Addiction Warning: The Effects of E-Cigarette Warning Variations on Health Risk Perceptions.

INTRODUCTION: Research on electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) warnings has primarily focused on addiction warnings, such as the one soon to be required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. However, reduced-risk warnings, similar to the warnings recently proposed for smokeless tobacco products, remain a future possibility for e-cigarettes. Thus, this brief report compares e-cigarette health risk perceptions based on reduced-risk warnings and the FDA addiction risk warning, and considers whether these warnings differ in believability, ease of comprehension, and perceptions about the clarity of risk communication. METHODS: A quota sample of 672 smokers, e-cigarette users, dual users, and nonusers participated in this between-subjects experiment. Study participants were randomly assigned to one of three warning conditions, including the FDA-mandated addiction warning and two reduced-risk warnings. After exposure to the warning statement, participants responded to measures of health risk perceptions, believability, ease of comprehension, and perception about the clarity of risk communication. RESULTS: Results reveal that the addiction warning is perceived as more believable, easier to comprehend, and more clearly communicating the health risks of e-cigarettes use compared with the reduced-risk warnings. In addition, overall health risk perceptions and addiction risk perceptions based on the addiction warning are greater than health risk perceptions based on the reduced-risk warnings. In contrast, specific disease-related risk perceptions such as cancer, heart disease, lung disease, and harm to an unborn baby are greater for the reduced-risk warnings. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides a comparison of the forthcoming FDA-mandated e-cigarette addiction warning and reduced-risk warnings that have begun to be considered in the literature on a number of critical outcomes. IMPLICATIONS: This research provides a greater understanding of how variations of e-cigarette warnings, including addiction and reduced-risk warnings, are perceived by smokers, e-cigarette users, dual users, and nonusers. Specifically, findings show that overall health risk perceptions and addiction risk perceptions based on the addiction warning are greater than risk perceptions based on the reduced-risk warnings. In contrast, specific disease-related risk perceptions, such as cancer and heart disease, are greater for the reduced-risk warnings.

Smokeless Tobacco: Insight on Prevalence of Oral Manifestation

Objective: To determine the prevalence of oral mucosal lesions among smokeless tobacco users of Pakistani Population. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of six months (from July 2017 to January 2018) at Dental Outpatient department of Sindh, via aid of a validated custom-made questionnaire. Random sampling technique was adopted among patients attending dental Outpatient Departments, making use of OPEN API online software determining sample size as 289, with limitation included exclusion of pregnant women, edentulous individuals, children under age of 18 years and those having oral manifestations associated with any systemic disease. Statistical analysis included Logistic Regression and Chi-square for determining odds' ratio and possible associations. Results: Logistic regression model 71% predicted discoloration of buccal mucosa 206 times in absence of any predictor variable. Discoloration of oral tissues was prevalent among individuals who chewed tobacco at least 6 times or more in a day. Periodontal associated damage was also prevalent among 6 times/day and more tobacco chewers. Statistically significant values were for normal buccal mucosa 06-10 times (p=0.007), white patch on buccal mucosa 11-15 times (p=0.0043) and swelled buccal mucosa 11-15 times (p=0.002). Conclusion: This study has demonstrated specific smokeless tobacco associated oral lesions. Further studies nationwide, addressing attributes of socioeconomic status and ethnicity with respect to composition of smokeless tobacco will reveal more conclusive findings.

O Chimó, uma Preparação de Tabaco sem Fumaça, está Associado a uma Frequência mais Baixa de Hipertensão em Indivíduos com Diabetes Tipo 2 / Chimó, a Smokeless Tobacco Preparation, is Associated With a Lower Frequency of Hypertension in Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes

Fundamentos: O uso do tabaco e a hipertensão arterial sistêmica (HAS) são as principais causas preveníveis de morte a nível global. O tabaco é apresentado nas formas com ou sem fumaça (TSF). O uso do TSF tem sido relacionado à doença cardiovascular, diabetes tipo 2 (DM2) e câncer. Na Venezuela, o chimó é a preparação de TSF mais comum e a sua relação com a HAS é desconhecida. Objetivo: Avaliar a relação entre o uso de chimó e HAS em uma população com alta prevalência de uso de TSF na Venezuela. Métodos: Entre 2013-2014, um total de 1.938 indivíduos com 20 anos ou mais foram avaliados consecutivamente em um centro médico. Foram obtidas medidas antropométricas e de pressão arterial (PA), além de respostas a um questionário padrão. Resultados: Os participantes tinham uma média de idade de 49,2 anos, 59,5% eram do sexo feminino, 38,9% apresentavam HAS, 23,2% relataram uso de TSF e 11,6% relataram ter DM2. Um terço dos indivíduos com DM2 eram usuários de TSF, e este grupo mostrou valores mais baixos de frequência cardíaca, PA sistólica, índice de massa corporal (IMC) e frequência de HAS quando comparado a sujeitos com DM2 não usuários de TSF (p < 0,05). Em indivíduos com DM2 com 50 anos ou mais, o uso de TSF foi associado a uma frequência 69% mais baixa de HAS quando comparados a indivíduos que não usavam TSF. Em regressão logística ajustada pela frequência cardíaca, idade, ocorrência de DM2, sobrepeso/obesidade e história familiar de HAS, o uso de TSF esteve associado a uma frequência 30% mais baixa de HAS (razão de chances 0,70; intervalo de confiança de 95% 0,55 - 0,90). Conclusão: O chimó, um TSF frequentemente utilizado na região dos Andes na Venezuela, está associado a valores mais baixos de PA, frequência cardíaca, IMC e frequência mais baixa de HAS em indivíduos com DM2 com mais de 50 anos. Esta associação contraintuitiva negativa entre o chimó e alguns fatores de risco cardiometabólicos realça o caráter complexo destas relações e a necessidade de estudos adicionais

Background: Tobacco use and hypertension are leading preventable causes of death globally. Tobacco is presented as smoked or smokeless tobacco (ST). ST use has been related to cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and cancer. In Venezuela, chimó is the most common ST preparation, and its relationship with hypertension is unknown. Objective: To evaluate the relationship between chimó use and hypertension in a population with a high prevalence of ST use in Venezuela. Methods: From 2013-2014, a total of 1,938 consecutive subjects aged 20 years or older were evaluated in a medical center. Anthropometrics and blood pressure (BP) measurements, and responses to a standard questionnaire were obtained. Results: The participants had a mean age of 49.2 years, 59.5% were female, 38.9% had hypertension, 23.2% reported ST use, and 11.6% reported having T2D. One-third of the subjects with T2D were ST users, and this group showed lower heart rate, systolic BP, body mass index (BMI), and frequency of hypertension when compared with T2D subjects who were not ST users (p < 0.05). In subjects with T2D who were 50 years or older, ST use was associated with a 69% lower frequency of hypertension when compared with subjects without ST use. On logistic regression adjusted by heart rate, age, occurrence of T2D, overweight/obesity, and family history of hypertension, ST use was associated with a 30% lower frequency of hypertension (odds ratio 0.70; 95% confidence interval 0.55 ­ 0.90). Conclusion: Chimó, a ST frequently used in the Andes region of Venezuela, is associated with lower BP, heart rate, BMI, and frequency of hypertension in subjects with T2D older than 50 years. This counter-intuitive negative association of chimó with some cardiometabolic risk factors highlights the complex nature of these relationships and the need for further studies

A qualitative study of tobacco use in eight economically disadvantaged Dominican Republic communities.

Understanding social conditions prior to intervention design can enhance tobacco control interventions. This paper describes formative research conducted in 2010 about tobacco use in eight economically disadvantaged Dominican Republic communities, four of which participated in a previous intervention study (2003-2008). A combined US-Dominican team used a rapid assessment process to collect qualitative social and cultural data on tobacco use, knowledge and attitudes; plus observations about social and policy factors, such as exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS), tobacco regulations, pregnancy, health care provider (HCP) practices and sustainability of the 2003-2008 intervention. This assessment found that tobacco use varied by age. While all ages typically used cigarettes, older adults used relatively more unprocessed tobacco, which is seen as less harmful and less addictive. Middle-aged smokers typically used commercial cigarettes, which are viewed as dangerous, addictive, expensive and offensive. Young adults reported avoiding smoking, but using relatively more smokeless tobacco. Smoking during pregnancy has reportedly decreased. SHS was viewed as harmful, although smoke-free homes were uncommon. HCPs discussed tobacco issues mostly for patients with tobacco-related conditions. Sustainability of the 2003-2008 intervention appeared to be linked to active Community Technology Centers with strong leadership, and community social capital. This information could be used to design better targeted interventions in these communities.

Trastorno dual en población general de Itagüí, Colombia / Dual Pathology in General Population of Itagüí, Colombia

Objetivos: Estudiar la prevalencia de trastorno dual (concomitancia de un trastorno por uso de sustancias y un trastorno mental) en la población general de una pequeña ciudad del departamento de Antioquia en Colombia, mediante el análisis secundario de datos del estudio en salud mental realizado en esta población en el año 2011. Métodos: Se aplicó a una muestra de 415 sujetos la entrevista Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI), versión CAPI de la Organización Mundial de la Salud, y el análisis estadístico se realizó mediante el programa SPSS v.21. Resultados: Las prevalencias de vida y trastorno dual, considerando como tal el diagnóstico de un trastorno mental y un trastorno por uso de sustancias distintas del tabaco, fue del 7,2%. Las sustancias con mayores prevalencias de consumo en la vida para los sujetos con trastorno dual resultaron ser el alcohol (96,7%), la marihuana (80,0%), la cocaína y derivados (33,3%), la heroína (23,3%) y los tranquilizantes no recetados (13,3%); se encontró asociación estadística entre consumo de drogas y trastorno dual. La depresión mayor (40%), el trastorno negativista desafiante (36,7%), el estrés postraumático (33,3%), la fobia específica y el déficit de atención (26,7%) son los trastornos más prevalentes en los sujetos con trastorno dual de esta muestra. Consumir alcohol o drogas y cumplir criterios diagnósticos de trastorno dual presentan una asociación estadística significativa para el consumo de drogas como marihuana, cocaína, heroína y medicamentos sin prescripción médica (p < 0,001), todas con razones de disparidad (RD) > 1,00, muy altas cuando la droga consumida es la heroína (RD = 38,754) o los medicamentos no recetados (RD = 29,462). Tener antecedentes familiares de enfermedad y consumo de drogas presenta una alta asociación estadística con el trastorno dual, que es aún mayor con los antecedentes de enfermedad mental (p < 0,001; RD = 3,677). Conclusiones: El estudio da cuenta de la prevalencia de sujetos con trastorno dual en una población colombiana. El alcohol, la marihuana, la cocaína y derivados y la heroína son las sustancias mayormente consumidas por estos pacientes, y los trastornos mentales más prevalentes son la depresión, el TOD y el estrés postraumático. Estos hallazgos motivarán a los clínicos a buscar de manera más activa la presencia de trastorno dual para orientar más adecuadamente los planes de tratamiento.

Objectives: To study the prevalence of dual diagnosis (presence of a substance use disorder and an associated mental disorder) in the general population of a small town in the department of Antioquia in Colombia, through secondary analysis of survey data on Mental Health held in this city in 2011. Methods: With a sample of 415 subjects, the interview Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI), WHO CAPI version, was used and statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v.21. Results: The prevalence of dual diagnosis, considering that the presence of a diagnosis of mental disorder and a disorder snuff use of different substances was 7.2%. Substances with higher prevalence of use in life for individuals with dual diagnosis were alcohol (96.7%), marijuana (80.0%), cocaine and derivatives (33.3%), heroin (23.3%) and finally no prescription tranquilizers (13.3%), finding statistical association between drug use and dual diagnosis. Major depression (40%), oppositional defiant disorder (36.7%), posttraumatic stress (33.3%), specific phobia and attention deficit (26.7%) are the most prevalent disorders in individuals with dual diagnosis of this sample. Alcohol or drugs consumption and fulfilling diagnostic criteria for dual diagnosis have a significant statistical association for consumption of drugs like marijuana, cocaine, heroin and prescription medications (P< 0.001), all with disparity ratios of >1.00, very high when the drug is heroin consumed (RD = 38.754) or non-prescription medications (RD = 29.462). A family history of disease and drug use has a high statistical association with dual diagnosis, with a higher association with a history of mental illness (P<.001; RD = 3.677). Conclusions: The study reports on the prevalence of subjects with dual diagnosis in a Colombian population. Alcohol, marijuana, cocaine and heroin are derivatives and substances mostly consumed by these patients and the most prevalent mental disorders are depression, TOD and posttraumatic stress. These findings motivate clinicians to more actively seek the presence of dual diagnosis, directing a more appropriately treatment plans.

Demographic, psychosocial, and genetic risk associated with smokeless tobacco use among Mexican heritage youth.

BACKGROUND: Despite well-established negative health consequences of smokeless tobacco use (STU), the number and variety of alternative non-combustible tobacco products on the market have increased tremendously over the last 10 years, as has the market share of these products relative to cigarettes. While STU among non-Hispanic white youth has decreased over the last 10 years, the prevalence has remained constant among Hispanic youth. Here we examine demographic, psychosocial, and genetic risk associated with STU among Mexican heritage youth. METHODS: Participants (50.5 % girls) reported on psychosocial risk factors in 2008-09 (n = 1,087, mean age = 14.3 years), and smokeless tobacco use in 2010-11 (mean age = 16.7 years). Participants provided a saliva sample that was genotyped for genes in the dopamine, serotonin and opioid pathways. RESULTS: Overall 62 (5.7 %) participants reported lifetime STU. We identified five single nucleotide polymorphisms that increased the risk for lifetime use. Specifically, rs2023902 on SERGEF (OR = 1.93; 95 % CI: 1.05-3.53), rs16941667 on ALDH2 (OR = 3.14; 95 % CI: 1.65-5.94), and rs17721739 on TPH1 (OR = 1.71; 95 % CI: 1.00-2.91) in the dopamine pathway, rs514912 on TRH-DE (OR = 1.84; 95 % CI: 1.25-2.71) in the serotonin pathway, and rs42451417 on the serotonin transporter gene, SLC6A4 (OR = 3.53; 95 % CI: 1.56-7.97). After controlling for genetic risk, being male (OR = 1.86; 95 % CI: 1.02-3.41), obesity status (OR = 2.22; 95 % CI: 1.21-4.09), and both higher levels of anxiety (OR = 1.04; 95 % CI: 1.01-1.08) and social disinhibition (OR = 1.26; 95 % CI: 1.07-1.48) were associated with increased use. High subjective social status (OR = 0.78; 95 % CI: 0.64-0.93) was protective against use, while higher parental education (OR = 2.01; 95 % CI: 1.03-3.93) was associated with increased use. CONCLUSIONS: These data suggest that use of genetic risk, along with psychosocial, demographic, and behavioral risk factors may increase our ability to identify youth at increased risk for STU, which in turn may improve our ability to effectively target prevention messages to Mexican heritage youth.

Comprehensive chemical characterization of Rapé tobacco products: Nicotine, un-ionized nicotine, tobacco-specific N'-nitrosamines, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and flavor constituents.

Rapé, a diverse group of smokeless tobacco products indigenous to South America, is generally used as a nasal snuff and contains substantial amount of plant material with or without tobacco. Previously uncharacterized, rapé contains addictive and harmful chemicals that may have public health implications for users. Here we report % moisture, pH, and the levels of total nicotine, un-ionized nicotine, flavor-related compounds, tobacco-specific N-nitrosamines (TSNAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) for manufactured and hand-made rapé. Most rapé products were mildly acidic (pH 5.17-6.23) with total nicotine ranging from 6.32 to 47.6 milligram per gram of sample (mg/g). Calculated un-ionized nicotine ranged from 0.03 to 18.5 mg/g with the highest values associated with hand-made rapés (pH 9.75-10.2), which contain alkaline ashes. In tobacco-containing rapés, minor alkaloid levels and Fourier transform infrared spectra were used to confirm the presence of Nicotiana rustica, a high nicotine tobacco species. There was a wide concentration range of TSNAs and PAHs among the rapés analyzed. Several TSNAs and PAHs identified in the products are known or probable carcinogens according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Milligram quantities of some non-tobacco constituents, such as camphor, coumarin, and eugenol, warrant additional evaluation.

Tobacco use among youths--Argentina, 2007 and 2012.

Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of deaths worldwide. The MPOWER package, the six recommended policies of the World Health Organization (WHO) to reverse the tobacco epidemic, strongly recommends monitoring tobacco use trends. Because evidence indicates that smoking addiction often starts before the age of 18 years, there is a need to monitor tobacco use among youths. During 2011, a National Tobacco Control Law was enacted in Argentina that included implementation of 100% smoke-free environments, a comprehensive advertising ban (prohibiting advertising, promotion, and sponsorship of cigarettes or tobacco products through any media or communications outlets), pictorial health warnings, and a prohibition against the sale of tobacco products through any means to persons aged <18 years. To ascertain trends in tobacco use among youths in Argentina, the Argentina Ministry of Health and CDC analyzed data from the Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) for 2007 and 2012 (the next year that it was administered in Argentina). The findings indicated that the overall proportion of youths aged approximately 13-15 years who reported ever smoking a cigarette declined from 52.0% in 2007 to 41.9% in 2012 with significant decreases among both males and females. In 2012, 52.5% of youths in Argentina reported secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure in their homes and 47.5% in enclosed public places in the 7 days preceding the survey. Increased public education and tobacco control efforts will be important to discouraging tobacco use and decreasing SHS exposure among youths in Argentina.

[Risk factors associated with the diagnosis of chronic Chagasic miocardiopathy in seropositive individuals from Barinas state, Venezuela]. / Factores de riesgo asociados con el diagnóstico de miocardiopatía chagásica crónica en individuos seropositivos del estado Barinas, Venezuela.

This study evaluates the risk factors associated with the diagnosis of chronic chagasic miocardiopathy (CChM) in 115 seropositive individuals to anti-Trypanosoma cruzi antibodies, in Barinas state, Venezuela. Serology was performed with ELISA and MABA; while the CChM diagnosis was established by electrocardiography and echocardiography. A complete clinical history including epidemiological, personal/familiar antecedents and psychobiological habits, plus socioeconomic, psychosocial and alimentary habits interviews were performed for each individual. Risk factors were determined through binary logistic regression. Results showed that 81 patients (70,4%; CI 95% = 66.4-74.4) had criteria for CChM, of which 74 (64.4%; IC 95% = 60.2-68.6) were in phase II; while 34 (29.6%; IC 95% = 25.5-33.5) were in phase I of the disease and 7 (6.1%; IC 95% = 4.0-8.2) in phase III. In a one year period, two patients in phase III died of heart failure. The diagnosis of CChM was associated with hunting practice, maternal history of cardiopathies, chewing chimó, medical history of hypertension and apex beat visible; it was negatively associated with canned and preserved foods ingest. In conclusion the CChM diagnosis has high frequency in seropositive individuals in Barinas and heart failure prevention must be based on an early medical attention and educative strategies in order to control risk factors.

Factores de riesgo asociados con el diagnóstico de miocardiopatía chagásica crónica en individuos seropositivos del estado Barinas, Venezuela / Risk factors associated with the diagnosis of chronic chagasic miocardiopathy in seropositive individuals from Barinas state, Venezuela

Se determinaron los factores de riesgo asociados al diagnóstico de miocardiopatía chagásica crónica (MChC) en 115 individuos seropositivos para anticuerpos anti-Trypanosoma cruzi, en el Estado Barinas, Venezuela. La seropositividad fue determinada mediante ELISA y MABA (Multiple Antigen Blot Assay) y el diagnóstico de MChC fue establecido mediante electrocardiografía y ecocardiografía. A cada individuo se le realizó una historia clínica completa que incluyó antecedentes epidemiológicos, antecedentes patológicos personales y familiares, y hábitos psicobiológicos; además se realizó una encuesta donde se interrogó acerca de factores de riesgo socioeconómicos, psicosociales y de hábitos alimentarios. Los factores de riesgo fueron establecidos mediante una regresión logística binaria. Los resultados mostraron que 81 (70,4%; IC95% = 66,4-74,4) pacientes reunían criterios para el diagnóstico de MChC, de los cuales 74 (64,4%; IC95% = 60,2-68,6) estaban en Fase II (6,1%; IC95% = 4,0-8,2) y 7 en Fase III, mientras que 34 (29,6%; IC95% = 25,5-33,5) estaban en Fase I. En el periodo de 1 año murieron 2 individuos en Fase III. El diagnóstico de MChC estuvo asociado con la práctica de la caza de animales silvestres, el consumo de chimó, antecedentes maternos de cardiopatía, antecedentes personales de hipertensión arterial y un ápex visible, como factores de riesgo, mientras que: el consumo de alimentos preservados y enlatados constituyó un factor de protección. En conclusión, el diagnóstico de MChC tiene una alta frecuencia en individuos seropositivos del estado Barinas y la prevención del desarrollo de insuficiencia cardíaca debe basarse en la atención médica precoz y en medidas educativas para controlar los factores de riesgo.

This study evaluates the risk factors associated with the diagnosis of chronic chagasic miocardiopathy (CChM) in 115 seropositive individuals to anti-Trypanosoma cruzi antibodies, in Barinas state, Venezuela. Serology was performed with ELISA and MABA; while the CChM diagnosis was established by electrocardiography and echocardiography. A complete clinical history including epidemiological, personal/familiar antecedents and psychobiological habits, plus socioeconomic, psychosocial and alimentary habits interviews were performed for each individual. Risk factors were determined through binary logistic regression. Results showed that 81 patients (70,4%; CI95% = 66.4-74.4) had criteria for CChM, of which 74 (64.4%; IC95% = 60.2-68.6) were in phase II; while 34 (29.6%; IC95% = 25.5-33.5) were in phase I of the disease and 7 (6.1%; IC95% = 4.0-8.2) in phase III. In a one year period, two patients in phase III died of heart failure. The diagnosis of CChM was associated with hunting practice, maternal history of cardiopathies, chewing chimó, medical history of hypertension and apex beat visible; it was negatively associated with canned and preserved foods ingest. In conclusion the CChM diagnosis has high frequency in seropositive individuals in Barinas and heart failure prevention must be based on an early medical attention and educative strategies in order to control risk factors.