Clinical, epidemiological, and care profile of hospitalized patients with retinoblastoma in Brazil

ABSTRACT Purpose: To describe the epidemiological and clinical profile of hospitalized patients with retinoblastoma in Brazil. Methods: Using data from the Hospital Cancer Registry of the Instituto Nacional de Câncer, patients with the morphological codes of retinoblastoma who were diagnosed between 2000 to 2018, aged 0-19 years, and followed up in registered hospitals (analytical cases) were selected. The relative and absolute frequencies of demographic, clinical, diagnostic, therapeutic, and outcome variables were described. Hospital performance indicators were calculated and compared between hospitals qualified and not qualified to treat pediatric oncology cases and between hospitals with different case volumes (<20, 20-75, >75 cases). Results: Of the 2,269 identified analytical cases from 86 institutions, 48% were from the Southeast, 54% were male, and 66% were aged <4 years. The proportion of missing data (NA) was too high for several variables. Approximately 84% of the patients were from the public health system, 40% had a positive family history, and 88% had unilateral involvement. The first treatment included surgery in 58.3% of the patients (NA=2), Approximately 36.6% of these patients achieved complete remission, 10.8% achieved partial remission, and 12.7% died (NA=59%). Hospital performance indicators were within the target in >90% of the patients. The median time between the first appointment and diagnosis (6 days, interquartile range [IQR] 1-14) was significantly lower and the median time to death was longer (343 days, IQR, 212-539) in high-volume hospitals (>75 cases) than in medium- and low-volume hospitals. Conclusions: Despite the high proportion of missing data, we found that the delay in diagnosis is due to prehospital factors. Additionally, there is a need for educational programs for healthcare professionals and families that emphasize early identification and referral to specialized centers. Future studies should focus on the impact of Hospital Cancer Registry data completeness on outcomes, causes of delay in diagnosis, regional inequalities, and barriers to accessing specialized services.

Perfil epidemiológico dos acidentes por material biológico em médicos da atenção primária em Minas Gerais, de 2012 a 2021 / Epidemiological profile of accidents involving biological material among primary health care physicians in Minas Gerais, from 2012 to 2021 / Perfil epidemiológico de accidentes por material biológico en médicos de atención primaria en Minas Gerais, de 2012 a 2021

Introdução: Os acidentes ocupacionais com material biológico representam um problema de saúde pública. A exposição ocupacional dos profissionais da saúde configura-se como um risco de transmissão de diversos patógenos. Na literatura, há carência de estudos que analisem o perfil dos acidentes com material biológico nos médicos da atenção primária. Objetivo: Buscou-se compreender o perfil epidemiológico dos acidentes com material biológico em médicos da atenção primária em Minas Gerais. Métodos: Estudo epidemiológico descritivo com análise do perfil dos acidentes com material biológico em médicos da atenção primária em Minas Gerais, utilizando dados secundários. Resultados: No período analisado, foram registrados 111 acidentes com material biológico, dos quais 54% ocorreram somente em 2020 e 2021. A maioria dos casos deu-se em mulheres (59%), e os tipos mais frequentes de exposição foram mucosa (38%) e percutânea (33%). Dos médicos, 23% não possuíam esquema vacinal contra a hepatite B completo. Em média, em 36% dos acidentes os testes sorológicos foram negativos e em 61% não foram realizados ou o campo foi ignorado/deixado em branco. Em apenas 7,2% dos casos a quimioprofilaxia foi indicada, mas ressaltam-se os registros ignorados ou em branco. Mais da metade dos acidentados não emitiu a Comunicação de Acidente de Trabalho (CAT). Conclusões: Os acidentes com material biológico predominam em médicas e nas formas de exposição mucosa e percutânea. Investimentos em medidas de biossegurança e educação permanente são necessários para prevenir casos e estimular sua notificação.

Introduction: Occupational accidents with biological material represent a public health problem. The occupational exposure of health professionals represents a risk of transmission of various pathogens. In the literature, there is a lack of studies that analyze the profile of accidents with biological material among primary health care physicians. Objective: We aimed to understand the epidemiological profile of accidents involving biological material among primary health care physicians in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Methods: Descriptive epidemiological study that analyzed the profile of accidents with biological material among primary health care doctors in Minas Gerais, using secondary data. Results: In the period analyzed, 111 accidents with biological material were recorded, of which 54% occurred only in 2020 and 2021. Most cases occurred in women (59%) and the most frequent types of exposure were mucosal (38%) and percutaneous (33%). About a quarter (23%) of physicians did not have a complete immunization record for hepatitis B. On average, in 36% of accidents serological tests were negative and in 61% they were not performed or the field was ignored/left blank. In only 7.2% of cases, chemoprophylaxis was indicated, but ignored or blank records stood out. More than half of the victims did not fill out a work accident report. Conclusions: Accidents with biological material predominate in female doctors and in forms of mucosal and percutaneous exposure. Investments in biosafety measures and permanent education are necessary to prevent cases and encourage their notification.

Introducción: Los accidentes de trabajo con material biológico representan un problema de salud pública. La exposición ocupacional de los profesionales de la salud representa un riesgo de transmisión de varios patógenos. En la literatura faltan estudios que analicen el perfil de accidentes con material biológico en médicos de atención primaria. Objetivo: Buscamos comprender el perfil epidemiológico de los accidentes con material biológico en médicos de atención primaria en Minas Gerais. Métodos: Estudio epidemiológico descriptivo con análisis del perfil de accidentes con material biológico en médicos de atención primaria en Minas Gerais, utilizando datos secundarios. Resultados: En el período analizado se registraron 111 accidentes con material biológico, de los cuales el 54% ocurrió solo en 2020 y 2021. La mayoría de los casos ocurrieron en mujeres (59%) y los tipos de exposición más frecuentes fueron mucosa (38%) y percutánea (33%). El 23% de los médicos no disponía de un calendario completo de vacunación frente a la hepatitis B. En promedio, en el 36% de los accidentes, las pruebas serológicas fueron negativas y en el 61% no se realizó o se ignoró/dejó el campo en blanco. Solo en el 7,2% de los casos se indicó quimioprofilaxis, pero destacan los registros ignorados o en blanco. Más de la mitad de las víctimas no emitieron el CAT. Conclusiones: Predominan los accidentes con material biológico en médicas y en formas de exposición mucosa y percutánea. Son necesarias inversiones en medidas de bioseguridad y educación permanente para prevenir casos e incentivar su notificación.

Rastreamento da síndrome metabólica em participantesdo programa Universidade Aberta da Terceira Idade / Metabolic syndrome screening in the participantsat the Open University of the Third Age

Hábitos alimentares inadequados, sedentarismo e a maior expectativa de vida da população contribuem significativamente para a prevalência da síndrome metabólica. Essa doença predispõe uma pessoa a desenvolver diabetes mellitus tipo 2 e doenças cardiovasculares, as quais têm um amplo impacto na saúde pública, induzindo sobrecarga no sistema de saúde e reduzindo a qualidade de vida dos indivíduos afetados. A síndrome metabólica é uma doença multifatorial e está relacionada ao processo de envelhecimento, contudo, ainda há uma lacuna significativa, em termos de estudos, sobre a prevalência da condição em populações idosas. Nesse contexto, o presente estudo objetivou rastrear a prevalência da síndrome metabólica em participantes da Universidade Aberta da Terceira Idade (UNATI), localizada em Francisco Beltrão, Paraná. Os critérios diagnósticos de síndrome metabólica abordados nesta pesquisa incluem: circunferência abdominal ≥ 90 cm para homens e ≥ 80 cm para mulheres, triglicerídeos ≥ 150 mg/dL, HDL ≤ 40 mg/dL para homens e ≤ 50 mg/dL para mulheres, pressão arterial sistólica ≥ 130 mmHg e/ou pressão arterial diastólica ≥ 85 mmHg ou estar em farmacoterapia para hipertensão, além de glicemia de jejum ≥ 100 mg/dL ou estar em tratamento farmacológico para diabetes. Um total de 44 idosos foram avaliados, apresentando uma média de idade de 66,9 ± 7,1 anos, com uma predominância de mulheres (88%). Os resultados revelaram uma prevalência alarmante de síndrome metabólica, atingindo 36,4% da amostra estudada. Além disso, observou-se uma alta prevalência de condições associadas, como hipertensão arterial (67,2%), sobrepeso (58,6%) e obesidade visceral (31%). Esses achados ressaltam a importância da implementação de medidas preventivas direcionadas à promoção da qualidade de vida saudável e ao controle dos fatores de risco metabólicos.

Inadequate dietary habits, sedentary lifestyle, and increased life expectancy significantly contribute to the prevalence of metabolic syndrome. This condition predisposes an individual to develop type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases, which have a broad impact on public health, inducing a burden on the healthcare system and reducing the quality of life of affected individuals. Metabolic syndrome is a multifactorial disease and is related to the aging process; however, there is still a significant gap in terms of studies on the prevalence of the condition in elderly populations. In this context, this study aimed to screen the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in participants of the Open University for the Third Age (UNATI), located in Francisco Beltrão, Paraná. The diagnostic criteria for metabolic syndrome addressed in this research include: abdominal circumference ≥ 90 cm for men and ≥ 80 cm for women, triglycerides ≥ 150 mg/dL, HDL ≤ 40 mg/dL for men and ≤ 50 mg/dL for women, systolic blood pressure ≥ 130 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 85 mmHg or being on pharmacotherapy for hypertension, in addition to fasting glucose ≥ 100 mg/dL or being on pharmacological treatment for diabetes. A total of 44 elderly individuals were evaluated, with a mean age of 66.9 ± 7.1 years, predominantly women (88%). The results revealed an alarming prevalence of metabolic syndrome, affecting 36.4% of the studied sample. Furthermore, a high prevalence of associated conditions was observed, such as arterial hypertension (67.2%), overweight (58.6%), and visceral obesity (31%). These findings underscore the importance of implementing preventive measures aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and controlling metabolic risk factors.

Prevalencia de urticaria crónica: un estudio en población pediátrica de un hospital general / Prevalence of chronic urticaria: A study in the pediatric population of a general hospital

Introducción. La urticaria crónica es una afección inflamatoria de la piel caracterizada por presencia de habones evanescentes y/o angioedema, que ocurren durante un período ≥ 6 semanas. Objetivo. Determinar la prevalencia de esta enfermedad y describir características clínicas en niños y adolescentes menores de 19 años de un hospital general. Población y métodos. Estudio corte transversal, realizado entre el 2015 y el 2020, en una población de niños y adolescentes de un sistema de salud privado. Resultados. Se revisaron 1567 historias clínicas de pacientes con urticaria atendidos durante el período de estudio. Se identificaron 36 pacientes con urticaria crónica; se estableció una prevalencia del 0,16 % (IC95% 0,11-0,22). Conclusión. La prevalencia de urticaria crónica en niños y adolescentes fue del 0,16 %. Se observó mayor frecuencia en el sexo femenino y adolescentes.

Introduction. Chronic urticaria is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by the presence of evanescent wheals or angioedema that last for ≥ 6 weeks. Objective. To determine the prevalence of urticaria and describe its clinical characteristics in children and adolescents under 19 years of age in a general hospital. Population and methods. This was a cross-sectional study carried out between 2015 and 2020 in a population of children and adolescents seen at a private healthcare facility. Results. A total of 1567 medical records of patients with urticaria seen during the study period were reviewed. Thirty-six patients with chronic urticaria were identified; the prevalence was 0.16% (95% CI: 0.11­0.22). Conclusion. The prevalence of chronic urticaria in children and adolescents was 0.16%. A higher frequency was observed among girls and adolescents.

Epidemiología y clínica de los pacientes con lepra en un centro de referencia de Paraguay / Epidemiology and clinical features of patients with leprosy in a reference center in Paraguay

RESUMEN Introducción: lepra (enfermedad de Hansen) es una patología infecciosa desatendida que afecta piel y nervios periféricos, desencadenando neuropatías y complicaciones como deformidades y discapacidades. Objetivos: determinar características epidemiológicas y clínicas de pacientes con lepra en el Centro de Especialidades Dermatológicas del Ministerio de Salud Pública y Bienestar Social de Paraguay, de enero 2021 a diciembre 2022. Metodología: estudio descriptivo, observacional, retrospectivo, de corte transversal. La gestión y análisis de datos se realizó en planilla electrónica (Excel del programa Microsoft Office 365 versión 2405), luego se realizó estadística descriptiva. Resultados: se diagnosticaron 123 casos de lepra, 45 (36,58 %) eran mujeres y 78 (63,42 %) varones; las edades estaban entre 17 y 86 años, el rango más afectado fue de 41 a 50 años. Eran lepra multibacilar 112 casos (91,06%). El signo más frecuente fue la placa infiltrada, presentada en 88 casos (71,54%). 58 pacientes (47,15%) presentaron reacciones lepromatosas, siendo, 31 casos de tipo 1 (53,45 %). 34 casos (27,64%) presentaron discapacidad grado 1 y 10 casos (8,13%) discapacidad grado 2. Conclusión: el perfil del paciente con lepra fue del sexo masculino entre 41 a 50 años, siendo la mayoría casos multibacilares. Es fundamentales el diagnóstico precoz y el tratamiento adecuado para reducir la carga de la enfermedad y las discapacidades.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Leprosy (Hansen's disease) is a neglected infectious disease that affects skin and peripheral nerves, triggering neuropathies and complications such as deformities and disabilities. Objective: determine epidemiological and clinical characteristics of patients with Leprosy in the Dermatological Specialties Center of the Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare of Paraguay, from January 2021 to December 2022. Methodology: descriptive, observational, retrospective, cross-sectional study. Data management and analysis was carried out in an electronic spreadsheet (Excel from Microsoft Office 365 version 2405), then descriptive statistics were performed. Results: 123 cases of leprosy were diagnosed, 45 (36.58 %) were women and 78 (63.42 %) were men; the ages were between 17 and 86 years, the most affected range was 41 to 50 years. 112 cases (91.06 %) were multibacillary leprosy. The most frequent sign was infiltrated plaque, present in 88 cases (71.54 %). 58 patients (47.15 %) presented lepromatous reactions, 31 cases of type 1 (53.45 %). 34 cases (27.64 %) presented grade 1 disability and 10 cases (8.13 %) grade 2 disability. Conclusion: The profile of the patient with leprosy was male between 41 and 50 years, the majority being multibacillary cases. Early diagnosis and adequate treatment are essential to reduce the burden of the disease and disabilities.

Clinical profile of early- and late-onset colorectal cancer patients in a referral medical center in Medellín, Colombia: A comparative analysis / Perfil clínico de pacientes con cáncer colorrectal de aparición temprana y tardía en un centro médico de referencia en Medellín, Colombia: Un análisis comparativo

Introduction. Incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC), defined as colorectal cancer (CRC) in individuals aged < 50 years, is rising worldwide. Despite the increasing international scientific production on EOCRC, research is limited in Colombia. The objective of this study was to characterize the clinical features of adults with EOCRC and late-onset CRC (LOCRC, CRC in individuals aged ≥ 50 years). Methods. An observational, retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted with CRC patients ≥ 18 years old at one medical center in Medellín, Colombia. Clinical and pathological data were retrieved from the Institutional Cancer Registry. Two analysis groups were established: EOCRC and LOCRC. The Chi-Square test was applied to compare the variables of interest between both groups. Results. The sample included 1,202 patients, 53.5% were female (N=643) and the median age was 65 years (interquartile range: 55-73). EOCRC represented 15.9% (N=192). LOCRC tended to have more history of cardiometabolic diseases and smoking (p<0.001) than EOCRC. CRC family history was proportionally more frequent in EOCRC (7.3% vs 3.8%; p=0.028) than in LOCRC. Right-sided tumors were more common in LOCRC (30.4% vs 21.9%; p=0.041) and left-sided tumors in EOCRC (30.7% vs 23.2%; p=0.041). Only one patient had inflammatory bowel disease history. Conclusion. EOCRC is clinically distinct from LOCRC regarding pathological and toxicological history as well as tumor location. Our findings provide valuable insights for enhancing clinical decision-making, particularly in relation to age at onset in Colombian CRC patients.

Introducción. La incidencia de cáncer colorrectal (CCR) de aparición temprana (CCR-ATem), definido como CCR en individuos menores de 50 años, está aumentando en todo el mundo. A pesar del incremento en la producción científica internacional sobre CCR-ATem, la investigación es limitada en Colombia. El objetivo de este estudio fue caracterizar clínicamente los adultos con CCR-ATem y CCR de aparición tardía (CCR-ATar, CCR en individuos ≥ 50 años). Métodos. Estudio observacional, retrospectivo, transversal, en el que se incluyeron los pacientes adultos con CCR atendidos en un centro médico de Medellín, Colombia. Los datos se obtuvieron del Registro Institucional de Cáncer. Se establecieron dos grupos de análisis: CCR-ATem y CCR-ATar. Se aplicó la prueba de Chi cuadrado para comparar las variables de interés entre ambos grupos. Resultados. La muestra incluyó 1.202 pacientes, 53,5 % fueron mujeres (N=643), y la mediana de edad fue de 65 años (rango intercuartil: 55-73). CCR-ATem representó el 15,9 % (N=192). CCR-ATar tuvo más casos de enfermedades cardiometabólicas y tabaquismo (p<0,001). El antecedente familiar de CCR fue proporcionalmente más frecuente en CCR-ATem (7,3 % vs. 3,8 %; p=0,028). Los tumores del colon derecho fueron más frecuentes en CCR-ATar (30,4 % vs. 21,9 %; p=0,041) y los del colon izquierdo en CCR-ATem (30,7 % vs. 23,2 %; p=0,041). Solo un paciente tuvo antecedente de enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal. Conclusión. CCR-ATem es clínicamente distinto de CCR-ATar con respecto a antecedentes patológicos y toxicológicos, y localización tumoral. Nuestros hallazgos proporcionan información útil para mejorar la toma de decisiones clínicas, particularmente en relación con la edad de inicio en pacientes colombianos con CCR.

Prevalência e fatores associados à covid-19 grave em adultos hospitalizados no estado do paraná / Prevalence and factors associated with severe covid-19 in adults hospitalized in the state of paraná / Prevalencia y factores asociados a la covid-19 grave en adultos hospitalizados en el estado de paraná

O presente estudo buscou analisar a prevalência e os fatores associados à necessidade de cuidados intensivos por adultos hospitalizados, devido à Covid-19, no estado do Paraná. Para atingir o objetivo proposto, realizou-se um estudo transversal com notificações compulsórias da Síndrome Respiratória Aguda Grave, associada à Covid-19. Na análise, foram aplicados modelos de regressão de Poisson em modelos univariados e multivariados, com associações estimadas por Razão de Prevalência. No período analisado, foram registradas 61.213 hospitalizações por Covid-19 no estado. Os pacientes possuíam, maioritariamente, entre 45 e 59 anos, sexo masculino, raça branca e sem fatores de risco/comorbidade. Os principais achados permitiram inferir que a gravidade e necessidade de cuidados intensivos foi associada à idade, sexo raça/cor, uso de imunizante contra gripe, diagnóstico de comorbidades prévias, ter apresentado sintomas moderados/graves e local de residência diferente do município de hospitalização. Ainda, os piores desfechos da Covid-19 foram influenciados por fatores sociodemográficos, clínicos e epidemiológicos, os quais estiveram relacionados à gravidade da doença e necessidade de cuidados intensivos. Assim sendo, identificou-se uma elevada prevalência de hospitalização em Unidades de Terapia Intensiva, diante características intrínsecas e extrínsecas aos indivíduos acometidos pela doença.

This study sought to analyze the prevalence and factors associated with the need for intensive care by adults hospitalized due to Covid-19 in the state of Paraná. To achieve the proposed objective, a cross-sectional study was carried out with compulsory notifications of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome associated with Covid-19. In the analysis, Poisson regression models were applied in univariate and multivariate models, with associations estimated by Prevalence Ratio. In the period analyzed, 61,213 hospitalizations due to Covid-19 were recorded in the state. The majority of patients were between 45 and 59 years old, male, white and had no risk factors/comorbidities. The main findings allowed us to infer that the severity and need for intensive care was associated with age, gender, race/color, use of influenza immunization, diagnosis of previous comorbidities, having presented moderate/severe symptoms and place of residence other than the municipality of hospitalization. Furthermore, the worst Covid-19 outcomes were influenced by sociodemographic, clinical and epidemiological factors, which were related to the severity of the disease and the need for intensive care. Therefore, a high prevalence of hospitalization in Intensive Care Units was identified, given the intrinsic and extrinsic characteristics of individuals affected by the disease.

Este estudio buscó analizar la prevalencia y los factores asociados a la necesidad de cuidados intensivos por adultos hospitalizados debido al Covid-19 en el estado de Paraná. Para alcanzar el objetivo propuesto, se realizó un estudio transversal con notificaciones obligatorias de Síndrome Respiratorio Agudo Severo asociado a Covid-19. Se aplicaron modelos de regresión de Poisson en modelos univariados y multivariados, con asociaciones estimadas por Razón de Prevalencia. En el periodo analizado, se registraron 61.213 hospitalizaciones por Covid-19 en el estado. La mayoría de los pacientes tenían entre 45 y 59 años, eran varones, de raza blanca y no presentaban factores de riesgo/comorbilidades. Los principales hallazgos permitieron inferir que la gravedad y la necesidad de cuidados intensivos se asociaron a la edad, el sexo, la raza/color, el uso de la vacuna antigripal, el diagnóstico de comorbilidades previas, haber presentado síntomas moderados/graves y el lugar de residencia distinto al municipio de hospitalización. Además, los peores resultados del Covid-19 se vieron influidos por factores sociodemográficos, clínicos y epidemiológicos, que estaban relacionados con la gravedad de la enfermedad y la necesidad de cuidados intensivos. Por tanto, se identificó una elevada prevalencia de hospitalización en Unidades de Cuidados Intensivos, dadas las características intrínsecas y extrínsecas de los individuos afectados por la enfermedad.

Epidemiologia das queimaduras no estado de Minas Gerais. O que mudou em uma década? / Epidemiology of burns in the state of Minas Gerais. What has changed in a decade?

Introdução: De grande impacto na população, queimaduras exigem análise epidemiológica e planejamento constantes para prevenção, tratamento e reabilitação dos pacientes. Este trabalho objetiva comparar, após uma década, os indicadores do Centro de Tratamento de Queimados do Hospital João XXIII, em Belo Horizonte, MG, abordados no artigo "Epidemiologia das queimaduras no estado de Minas Gerais", publicado na Revista Brasileira de Cirurgia Plástica com dados de 2010, para validar as estratégias vigentes e as futuras. Método: Revisão dos prontuários dos pacientes acometidos por queimadura, internados no referido centro em 2020. Resultados: Foram internadas 473 vítimas de queimadura no período, 87,5% causadas por acidente, sendo 34,5% por líquidos quentes, 23,7% por álcool; 61,9% provenientes do interior do estado de Minas Gerais; 63,4% do sexo masculino. A idade média foi de 30 anos, a superfície corporal queimada média foi de 18,8% e o tempo médio de internação foi de 25 dias. Foram realizados 580 desbridamentos cirúrgicos e 473 enxertos cutâneos autólogos. Faleceram 7,4% dos pacientes, correspondentes a 29,5% dos internados no CTI adulto, com superfície corporal queimada média de 49,7%, e 10,5% dos internados no CTI pediátrico. A maior causa de óbitos foi devido à sepse, em 57,1% dos casos. A mortalidade diminuiu de 16,3% para 7,4% no período estudado. Conclusão: O perfil do paciente internado por queimadura mantevese em grande parte o mesmo após 10 anos. Houve aumento do número de atendimentos a vítimas de queimadura do interior do estado e queimaduras provocadas por líquidos quentes passaram a ser mais frequentes que por álcool. ''A busca da conformidade com o tratamento baseado na literatura mundial resultou em diminuição da mortalidade."

Introduction: With a major impact on the population, burns require epidemiological analysis and constant planning for the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of patients. This work aims to compare, after a decade, the indicators of the Burn Treatment Center at Hospital João XXIII, in Belo Horizonte, MG, covered in the article "Epidemiology of burns in the state of Minas Gerais", published in the Revista Brasileira de Cirurgia Plástica with data from 2010, to validate current and future strategies. Method: Review of the medical records of patients suffering from burns, admitted to the aforementioned center in 2020. Results: 473 burn victims were hospitalized during the period, 87.5% were caused by an accident, 34.5% due to hot liquids, 23.7% by alcohol; 61.9% from the interior of the state of Minas Gerais; and 63.4% were male. The average age was 30 years, the average burned body surface area was 18.8% and the average length of stay was 25 days. 580 surgical debridement and 473 autologous skin grafts were performed. 7.4% of patients died, corresponding to 29.5% of those admitted to the adult ICU, with an average burned body surface area of 49.7%, and 10.5% of those admitted to the pediatric ICU. The biggest cause of death was sepsis, in 57.1% of cases. Mortality decreased from 16.3% to 7.4% in the period studied. Conclusion: The profile of patients hospitalized for burns remained largely the same after 10 years. There was an increase in the number of visits to burn victims in the interior of the state and burns caused by hot liquids became more frequent than those caused by alcohol ''The search for compliance with treatment based on world literature resulted in reduction in mortality."

Tendência temporal de internação por queimadura, na faixa etária 0-14 anos, no Brasil, 2012-2022 / Time trend of hospitalization due to burn, in the age group of 0-14 years, in Brazil, 2012-20

Introdução: Queimaduras são lesões teciduais causadas pelo contato com fontes de calor. Representam um problema de saúde pública global. Em crianças causam grandes impactos. A gravidade e intensidade das queimaduras estão relacionadas ao agente etiológico e suas consequências são um grande obstáculo para o paciente. Método: O estudo analisou dados de internações hospitalares por queimaduras em crianças de 2012 a 2022, utilizando informações do SIH-SUS. Foram calculadas taxas de internações por 100.000 habitantes para cada ano, considerando variáveis dependentes. Os pesquisadores utilizaram coeficientes padronizados e regressão linear simples para analisar os dados. Resultados: Incluíram-se dados de 91.091 internações por queimaduras em crianças, 0-14 anos. Verificou-se estabilidade na taxa geral de internações (taxa média 17,963; ß=0,119; p=0,163). No sexo feminino houve tendência de aumento (taxa média 14,346; ß=0,169; p=0,029); no masculino de estabilidade (taxa média 21,426; ß=0,069; p=0,504). O sexo feminino comportou-se com estabilidade em todas as faixas etárias; o masculino com aumento na faixa 0-4 anos (taxa média 42,264; ß=0,613; p=0,003), estabilidade na faixa 5-9 anos (taxa média 14,189; ß=-0,21; p=0,867) e redução na faixa 10-14 anos (taxa média 9,871; ß= -0,328; p=0,007). A Região Sul demonstrou tendência de aumento (taxa média 26,952; ß=1,091; p=0,001). Conclusão: Houve estabilidade na taxa geral de internações. O sexo feminino tendeu ao aumento e o masculino à estabilidade. Houve estabilidade nas regiões brasileiras, exceto no Sul.

Introduction: Burns are tissue injuries caused by contact with heat sources. They represent a global public health problem. They have major impacts on children. The severity and intensity of burns are related to the etiological agent and their consequences are a major obstacle for the patient. Method: The study analyzed data on hospital admissions for burns in children from 2012 to 2022, using information from SIH-SUS. Hospitalization rates per 100,000 inhabitants were calculated for each year, considering dependent variables. The researchers used standardized coefficients and simple linear regression to analyze the data. Results: Data from 91,091 hospitalizations for burns in children, 0-14 years old, were included. There was stability in the general hospitalization rate (mean rate 17.963; ß=0.119; p=0.163). In females there was an increasing trend (mean rate 14.346; ß=0.169; p=0.029); in males, there was stability (mean rate 21.426; ß=0.069; p=0.504). Females behaved with stability in all age groups; the male with an increase in the range 0-4 years (mean rate 42.264; ß=0.613; p=0.003), stability in the range 5-9 years (mean rate 14.189; ß=-0.21; p=0.867) and reduction in the range 10-14 years (mean rate 9.871; ß= -0.328; p=0.007). The South Region demonstrated an increasing trend (mean rate 26.952; ß=1.091; p=0.001). Conclusion: There was stability in the general hospitalization rate. The female sex tended towards increase and the male towards stability. There was stability in Brazilian regions, except in the South.

Prevalencia de anomalías dentomaxilares y necesidad de tratamiento de ortodoncia en niñas/os de 6 años en cinco comunas de Chile. Estudio Preliminar

Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de las anomalías dentomaxilares (ADM) y necesidad de tratamiento de ortodoncia en escolares de 6 años en cinco comunas en Chile. Material y método: Estudio de corte transversal, observacional y descriptivo. La muestra fue de 1102 escolares. Se realizaron exámenes clínicos aplicando la Guía de Referencia Clínica a Ortodoncia para Servicios Públicos de Salud, para determinar la prevalencia de las ADM y necesidad de tratamiento de ortodoncia. El análisis estadístico utilizó el programa STATA®, considerando estadísticamente significativo p 0.05. Resultados: 1102 escolares de 6 años fueron examinados, 48,8% niñas y 51,2% niños. La prevalencia de niño/as con anomalías dentomaxilares fue 59.1%. Las tres más prevalentes fueron: apiñamiento dentario o rotaciones (21,6%), resalte aumentado (17,6%) y overbite aumentado (15,9%). La necesidad de tratamiento de ortodoncia encontrada fue de 34,7% con evidente necesidad y un 25,3% con leve necesidad. Conclusión: Se evidencia la necesidad de incluir en las políticas públicas de salud oral, estrategias de diagnóstico y tratamiento temprano de ADM por su alta prevalencia.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of dento-maxillary anomalies (DMA) and the orthodontic treatment need in 6-year-old schoolchildren in five areas of Chile. Material and method: Cross-sectional, observational and descriptive study. The sample consisted of 1102 6-year-old schoolchildren. Clinical examinations were carried out applying the Clinical Reference Guide for Orthodontics in Public Health Services, to determine the prevalence of DMA and the need for orthodontic treatment. Statistical analysis used the STATA® program, considering p ≤ 0.05 statistically significant. Results: 1102 6-year-old children were examined, 48.8% were girls and 51.2% boys. The prevalence of children with DMA was 59.1%. The three most prevalent were: dental crowding or rotations (21.6%), increased overjet (17.6%), and increased overbite (15.9%). The orthodontic treatment need was 34.7% of patients with great need and 25.3% with moderate need. Conclusion: The need to include early diagnosis and treatment strategies for DMA in public oral health policies is evident due to its high prevalence.

Perfil epidemiológico da hanseníase em Bacabal - MA, Brasil, 2008-2017 / Epidemiological profile of leprosy in Bacabal -Ma, Brazil, 2008-2017 / Perfil epidemiológico de la lepra en Bacabal -Ma, Brasil, 2008-2017

Introdução:A hanseníase é uma enfermidade infectocontagiosa que pode gerar desde a incapacidade as sequelas físicas quando não tratada precocemente. Objetivo:Descrever o perfil epidemiológico da Hanseníase em Bacabal no estado do Maranhão. Metodologia:Trata-se de um estudo transversal, retrospectiva com abordagem quantitativa, sobre casos de hanseníase registrados no Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação no período de 2008 a 2017 sendo analisados por estatística descritiva. Resultados:Foram diagnosticados 1.309 casos, na faixa etária de 20 a 34 anos (25,7%), sexo masculino (60,2%), raça/pretos (39,8%), com ensino fundamental (63,5%), ocupação de agropecuários (32,3%), atenção básica notificou a maioria dos casos (49,9%) e residiam na zona urbana (78,7%). Verificou-se que a classificação operacional predominante foi em casos Multibacilar (76%), na forma clínica dimorfa (60,9%), múltiplas lesões de 2 a 5 (33%), sem nervos afetados (60,6%) e os pacientes não tiveram nenhuma incapacidade física (45,5%). Apenas 43% dos casos realizaram a baciloscopia e a poliquimioterapia Multibacilar com 12 doses predominou com 75,8% nos casos diagnosticados. A maioria dos casos eram classificados como novos (77,8%), foram detectados por demanda espontânea (38,5%) e mais da metade foram curados (80,3%). Conclusões:A hanseníase é uma doença endêmica na região se configurando um problema saúde pública devido a elevada magnitude dos casos. Ressalta-se a importância da realização de atividades educativas com enfoque na prevenção através da busca ativa para o diagnóstico precoce; no intuito de rastrear casos e contatos na comunidade a fim de reduzir as sequelas físicas sendo um fator determinante para o enfrentamento da doença (AU).

Introduction:Leprosy is an infectious disease that can cause disability and physical sequelae when not treated early.Objective:To describe the epidemiological profile of leprosy in Bacabal, state of Maranhão. Methodology:This was a cross-sectional, retrospective, quantitative study on leprosy cases reported to the Notifiable Diseases Information System from 2008 to 2017. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results:A total of 1,309 cases were diagnosed, in the age group of 20 to 34 years (25.7%), male (60.2%), black race (39.8%), with elementary education (63.5%), and working in agriculture (32.3%). Primary care reported most cases (49.9%), and the majority of cases were from urban areas (78.7%). The predominant operational classification was multibacillary cases (76%), in the dimorphic clinical form (60.9%), from 2 to 5 multiple lesions (33%), without affected nerves (60.6%), and no physical disability (45.5%). Only 43% of cases underwent bacilloscopy, and multibacillary polychemotherapy with 12 doses was the most common treatment, accounting for 75.8% of diagnosed cases. Most cases were classified as new (77.8%) and were detected by spontaneous demand (38.5%), and more than Half were cured (80.3%).Conclusions: Leprosy is a disease endemic to the region and represents a public health challenge due to the high magnitude of cases. The importance of educational activities focusing on prevention through an active search for early diagnosis is highlighted to track cases and contacts in the community toreduce physical sequelae, which are crucial in combating the disease (AU).

Introducción: La lepra es una enfermedad infectocontagiosa que puede generar desde la discapacidad a consecuencias físicas si no se trata precozmente. Objetivo:Describir el perfil epidemiológico de la Lepra en Bacabal, estado de Maranhão. Metodología:Se trata de un estudio transversal, retrospectiva con abordaje cuantitativo, sobre casos de lepra registrados en el Sistema de Información de Enfermedades de Notificación Obligatoria en el período de 2008 a 2017 analizados por estadística descriptiva. Resultados:Se diagnosticaron 1.309 casos, con edad entre 20 a 34 años (el 25,7%), varones (el 60,2%), raza/negros (el 39,8%), con enseñanza básica (el 63,5%), ocupación de agropecuarios (el 32,3%), la atención primaria reportó la mayor parte de los casos (el 49,9%) y vivían en zonas urbanas (el 78,7%). Se verificó que la clasificaciónoperacional predominante fue en casos Multibacilar (el 76%), en la forma clínica dimorfa (el 60,9%), múltiples lesiones de 2 a 5 (el 33%), sin niervos afectados (el 60,6%) y los pacientes no tuvieron ninguna incapacidad física (el 45,5%). Solo el 43% de los casos se realizaron la baciloscopia y la poliquimioterapia Multibacilar con 12 dosis predominó con el 75,8% en los casos diagnosticados. La mayoría de los casos eran clasificados como nuevos (el 77,8%), se detectó por demanda espontánea (el 38,5%) y másde la mitad se curaron (el 80,3%). Conclusiones: La lepra es una enfermedad endémica en la región se configurando un problema salud pública debido a la elevada magnitud de los casos. Se subraya la importancia de la realización de actividades educativas con hincapié en la prevención por intermedio de la búsqueda activa para el diagnóstico temprano; en el intuito de rastrear casos y contactos en la comunidad con la finalidad de reducir las discapacidades físicas que son un factor determinante para afrontar enfrentar la enfermedad (AU).

Caracterização epidemiológica de violência sexual no sudeste da região norte do brasil / Epidemiological characterization of sexual violence in southeast of northern Brazil / Caracterización epidemiológica de la violencia sexual en el sureste del norte de Brasil

Introdução: A violência sexual é qualquer ato físico, coercivo, de intimidação com potencial psicológico contra outra pessoa, ocorrendo, especialmente,no sexo feminino, em qualquer faixa etária.Objetivo: Apresentar uma caracterização epidemiológica dos casos de violência sexual referente ao número de casos, faixa etária e gênero entre período de 2014 a 2019 no município de Tucuruí-Pará.Métodos:Trata-se de um estudo de caráter descritivo, comparativo e retrospectivo de corte transversal. A coleta dos dados foi realizada através de notificações em protocolos dos órgãos do governo estadual e do governo municipal, na cidade de Tucuruí-Pará.Para análise dos dados, foram utilizados o teste Exato de Fisher e teste de Mann Whitney.Resultados:A instituição com maior número de notificações foi pelo instrumento Estadual, com 771 casos notificados durante o período de 2014 a 2019, (∆%=631%; p<0,001) em relação ao instrumento municipal, que apresentou o total de 140 casos notificados. Quanto a diferença de gênero, as mulheres são as mais atingidas por este tipo de violência em ambos os órgãos analisados, assim como, com respeito a faixa etária mais acometida, a infância, adolescência e adultos jovens são os que mais sofrem com o problema da violência sexual, de acordo com os dados de ambos os órgãos.Conclusão: O perfil da violência sexual no município de Tucuruí é predominante entre mulheres, da faixa etária que vai desde a infância até a fase adulta. Os dados utilizados das duas instituições durante o período de estudo apresentaram diferenças estatísticas, sendo o instrumento de notificações Estadual o órgão com maior número de notificações em todas as comparações realizadas (AU).

Introduction: Sexual violence is any physical, coercive act of intimidation with psychological potential against another person, occurring especially among females, in any age group.Objective: Present an epidemiological characterization of cases of sexual violence regarding the number of cases, age group and gender between 2014 and 2019 in the municipality of Tucuruí-Pará.Methods: This is a descriptive, comparative and retrospective cross-sectional study. Data collection was carried out through notifications in protocols of state and municipal government agencies, in the city of Tucuruí-Pará.For data analysis, Fisher's exact test and Mann Whitney test were used.Results: The institution with the highest number of notifications was by the State instrument, with 771 cases notified during the period 2014 to 2019, (∆%=631%; p<0.001) compared to the municipal instrument, which presented a total of 140 cases notified. As for the gender difference, women are the most affected by this type of violence in both bodies analyzed, as well as, with respect to the most affected age group, childhood, adolescence and young adults are the ones who suffer most from the problem of sexual violence, according to data from both bodies. Conclusion: The profile of sexual violence in the city of Tucuruíis predominant among women, in the age group that goes from childhood to adulthood. The data used from the two institutions during the study period showed statistical differences, with the State notification instrument being the body with the highest number of notifications in all comparisons performed (AU).

Introducción: La violencia sexual es cualquier acto físico y coercitivo de intimidación con potencial psicológico contra otra persona,que ocurre especialmente entre mujeres, en cualquier grupo de edad.Objetivo:Presentar una caracterización epidemiológica de los casos de violencia sexual en cuanto al número de casos, grupo etario y género entre 2014 y 2019 en el municipio de Tucuruí-Pará. Métodos:Se trata de un estudio transversal descriptivo, comparativo y retrospectivo. La recolección de datos se realizó a través de notificaciones en protocolos de organismos gubernamentales estatales y municipales, en la ciudad de Tucuruí-Pará. Parael análisis de los datos se utilizó la prueba exacta de Fisher y la prueba de Mann Whitney. Resultados:La institución con mayor número de notificaciones fue por el instrumento Estatal, con 771 casos notificados durante el período 2014 a 2019, (∆%=631%; p<0,001) frente al instrumento municipal, que presentó un total de 140 casos notificados. En cuanto a la diferencia de género, las mujeres son las más afectadas por este tipo de violencia en ambos cuerpos analizados, así como, respecto al grupo de edad más afectado, la infancia, la adolescencia y los adultos jóvenes son quienes más sufren el problema de la violencia sexual, según datos de ambos organismos. Conclusión:El perfil de violencia sexual en la ciudad de Tucuruí es predominante entre las mujeres, enel grupo etario que va desde la niñez hasta la edad adulta. Los datos utilizados de las dos instituciones durante el período de estudio mostraron diferencias estadísticas, siendo el instrumento de notificación del Estado el organismo con mayor número de notificaciones en todas las comparaciones realizadas (AU).

Retreatment and Anti-tuberculosis Therapy Outcomes in Brazil Between 2015 and 2022: A Nationwide Study.

Background: Adherence to anti-tuberculosis treatment (ATT) in Brazil remains a challenge in achieving the goals set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Patients who are lost to follow-up during treatment pose a significant public health problem. This study aimed to investigate the factors associated with unfavorable ATT outcomes among those undergoing retreatment in Brazil. Methods: We conducted an observational study of patients aged ≥18 years with tuberculosis (TB) reported to the Brazilian National Notifiable Disease Information System between 2015 and 2022. Clinical and epidemiologic variables were compared between the study groups (new cases and retreatment). Regression models identified variables associated with unfavorable outcomes. Results: Among 743 823 reported TB cases in the study period, 555 632 cases were eligible, consisting of 462 061 new cases and 93 571 undergoing retreatments (44 642 recurrent and 48 929 retreatments after loss to follow-up [RLTFU]). RLTFU (odds ratio [OR], 3.96 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 3.83-4.1]) was a significant risk factor for any type of unfavorable ATT. Furthermore, RLTFU (OR, 4.93 [95% CI, 4.76-5.11]) was the main risk factor for subsequent LTFU. For death, aside from advanced age, living with HIV (OR, 6.28 [95% CI, 6.03-6.54]) was the top risk factor. Conclusions: Retreatment is a substantial risk factor for unfavorable ATT outcomes, especially after LTFU. The rates of treatment success in RLTFU are distant from the WHO End TB Strategy targets throughout Brazil. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to improve treatment adherence and outcomes in persons who experience RLTFU.

Molecular Epidemiology of Isoniazid-resistant M tuberculosis in Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

Background: Isoniazid-resistant, rifampin-susceptible tuberculosis (Hr-TB) is associated with poor treatment outcomes and higher rates of acquisition of further drug resistance during treatment. Due to a lack of widespread diagnostics, Hr-TB is frequently undetected and its epidemiology is incompletely understood. Methods: We studied the molecular epidemiology of Hr-TB among all patients diagnosed with culture-positive pulmonary tuberculosis between January 1 and June 30, 2017, at an urban referral tuberculosis clinic in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Demographic and clinical data were extracted from the electronic medical record. Archived diagnostic Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates were tested for genotypic and phenotypic isoniazid resistance using the Genotype MTBDRplus assay (Hain, Nehren, Germany) and culture-based testing, respectively. All isoniazid-resistant isolates and a randomly selected subset of isoniazid-susceptible isolates underwent whole-genome sequencing to confirm the presence of mutations associated with isoniazid resistance, to validate use of Genotype MTBDRplus in this population, and to identify potential transmission links between isoniazid-resistant isolates. Results and Conclusions: Among 845 patients with culture-positive pulmonary tuberculosis in Haiti, 65 (7.7%) had Hr-TB based on the Genotype MTBDRplus molecular assay. Age < 20 years was significantly associated with Hr-TB (odds ratio, 2.39; 95% confidence interval, 1.14, 4.70; P = .015). Thirteen (20%) isoniazid-resistant isolates were found in 5 putative transmission clusters based on a single nucleotide polymorphism distance of ≤ 5. No patients in these transmission clusters were members of the same household. Adolescents are at higher risk for Hr-TB. Strains of isoniazid-resistant M tuberculosis are actively circulating in Haiti and transmission is likely occurring in community settings.

Changes in Use of Prenatal Dental Care After Brazil's Incentive Policy.

In 2020, the Brazilian federal government launched the "Prevent Brazil" program to incentivize cities to improve their performance across 7 health care indicators, including prenatal dental care. Our study examines the impact of this policy on the use of oral health care among pregnant women in Brazil. We used a series of cross-sectional data from the Brazilian Public Health System from 2018 to 2023. We linked publicly available data from the Brazilian Ministry of Health and the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics. Our outcome was the proportion of pregnant women receiving prenatal care who had at least 1 dental visit during the past year. Covariates included city-level socioeconomic (income and literacy), demographic (gender, race, and urban areas), and workforce variables (number of dentists working in the public health system per city/year). We estimated the impact of the policy on prenatal dental visits nationwide and stratified by geographic region using interrupted time-series analysis. Our analyses included 99.9% of all Brazilian cities (n = 5,562). The use of oral health care among pregnant women increased from 15% in 2018 to 69% in 2023. Adjusted estimates show that, after initiation of the Prevent Brazil, dental care use among pregnant women increased nationally at a rate of 4.6 percentage points per 4-mo period (95% confidence interval [CI] 4.5; 4.7). The policy's largest impact was in the North and Northeast regions, which have the lowest socioeconomic profiles (adjusted time-series rate 5.7 [95% CI 5.3; 6.1] and 5.2 [5.0; 5.4] percent points, respectively). Our findings support the positive impact of the Prevent Brazil policy on prenatal dental care in Brazil. The policy was associated with a countrywide improvement in prenatal dental care use, with a greater impact in socioeconomically disadvantaged regions.

Occurrence of periodontal diseases according to the ACES 2018 Classification Framework and the CDC/AAP definition: A cross-sectional study in a major Brazilian city.

AIM: The occurrence of periodontal diseases is still to be determined in large samples of major Brazilian cities. This study aimed to assess the periodontal status of adults from Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil, using periodontitis definitions by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Periodontology (CDC/AAP) and the recently published ACES 2018 Classification Framework. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A multi-stage probability sampling technique was applied to draw individuals aged 18 or older. A total of 566 individuals underwent a full-mouth periodontal examination. Periodontitis cases were defined according to the CDC/AAP and the ACES 2018 Classification Framework. Non-periodontitis cases were classified as healthy or gingivitis. The agreement between the two definitions was calculated. RESULTS: Periodontal health was present in 33.6% and 13.8% of individuals, and gingivitis was found in 11.7% and 7.5%, according to CDC/AAP and ACES, respectively. Mild, moderate and severe periodontitis (CDC/AAP) were present in 2.1%, 33.4% and 19.1% of individuals, respectively. Using ACES, 34.3% had Stages I/II and 43.3% had Stages III/IV. The occurrence of periodontitis was higher when a subgroup of individuals aged 30+ were analysed, ranging from 69.6% (CDC/AAP) to 90.1% (ACES). CDC/AAP and ACES agreement for health, gingivitis and periodontitis accounted for 68.8% of the observations. CONCLUSIONS: Periodontal diseases affect more than 66% of the population aged 18+ years. Classic definition by the CDC/AAP and the recently published ACES Framework yielded moderate agreement.

Prevalence of sexually transmitted infections and human papillomavirus in cervical samples from incarcerated women in São Paulo, Brazil: a retrospective single-center study.

Introduction: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) cause considerable morbidity worldwide and, depending on the specific pathogen, may lead to serious complications in the female reproductive tract. Incarcerated women are particularly vulnerable to health problems with a disproportionate high rate of STIs, including infections with human papillomavirus (HPV). Methods: Here, cervical swab samples collected from 299 women (18 to 64 years) living in one of the women's prisons of São Paulo, Brazil were submitted for liquid-based cytology to determine the prevalence of precancerous lesions. Furthermore, direct detection of 30 genital HPV genotypes (18 high-risk and 12 low-risk types) and 11 additional STIs (Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Herpes simplex virus 1 and 2, Haemophilus ducreyi, Mycoplasma genitalium and hominis, Treponema pallidum, Trichomonas vaginalis, Ureaplasma parvum and urealyticum) were performed by molecular typing using two PCR-based DNA microarray systems, i.e., EUROArray HPV and EUROArray STI (EUROIMMUN), respectively. Results: The overall prevalence of cytological abnormalities was 5.8%, including five women with low-grade and five women with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions. The overall prevalence of HPV was 62.2, and 87.1% of the HPV-positive women were infected with oncogenic high-risk (HR) HPV types. HPV types 16 (24.1%), 33 and 52 (both 10.4%) were the most frequently detected. The prevalence of the other STIs was 72.8%. Up to four different pathogens were found in the infected women, the most frequent being Ureaplasma parvum (45.3%), Mycoplasma hominis (36.2%) and Trichomonas vaginalis (24.8%). Conclusion: The high number of HR-HPV infections and other STIs described here highlights the fact that the Brazilian female prison population requires more attention in the country's health policies. The implementation of screening programs and treatment measures might contribute to a decrease in the incidence of STIs and cervical cancer in this vulnerable population. However, for such measures to be effective, further studies are needed to investigate the best practice to get more women to engage in in-prison prevention programs, e.g., through offering further sexual health education and self-sampling.

Optimal vaccination strategies on networks and in metropolitan areas.

This study presents a mathematical model for optimal vaccination strategies in interconnected metropolitan areas, considering commuting patterns. It is a compartmental model with a vaccination rate for each city, acting as a control function. The commuting patterns are incorporated through a weighted adjacency matrix and a parameter that selects day and night periods. The optimal control problem is formulated to minimize a functional cost that balances the number of hospitalizations and vaccines, including restrictions of a weekly availability cap and an application capacity of vaccines per unit of time. The key findings of this work are bounds for the basic reproduction number, particularly in the case of a metropolitan area, and the study of the optimal control problem. Theoretical analysis and numerical simulations provide insights into disease dynamics and the effectiveness of control measures. The research highlights the importance of prioritizing vaccination in the capital to better control the disease spread, as we depicted in our numerical simulations. This model serves as a tool to improve resource allocation in epidemic control across metropolitan regions.