Self-perception of mental health, COVID-19 and associated sociodemographic-contextual factors in Latin America.

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of alterations in self-perceived mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic and their associated factors in four Latin American countries. This is a cross-sectional study based on data collected from adults in 2021 through the Collaborative Response COVID-19 Survey by the MacDonnell Academy at Washington University in St. Louis (United States). The sample was composed of 8,125 individuals from Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, and Chile. A generalized linear model for a binary outcome variable with a logistic link and fixed country effects was used. There were 2,336 (28.75%) individuals who considered having suffered alterations in self-perceived mental health. Unemployed individuals (OR = 1.40; 95%CI: 1.24-1.58), those with bad/regular quality of life (OR = 5.03; 95%CI: 4.01-6.31), and those with high socioeconomic status (OR = 1.66; 95%CI: 1.41-1.96) had a higher risk of self-perceived mental health alterations than those with full-time employment, excellent quality, and low socioeconomic status. According to the fixed-effects model, Brazilians living in the country during the pandemic, who disagreed with their government's decisions (OR = 2.05; 95%CI: 1.74-2.42) and lacked trust in their government (OR = 2.10; 95%CI: 1.74-2.42) had a higher risk of having self-perceived mental health alterations. Nearly 30% of respondents indicated that the COVID-19 pandemic altered their self-perceived mental health. This outcome was associated with political, sociodemographic, and health risk factors. These findings should help policymakers develop post-pandemic community interventions.

Self-perception of mental health, COVID-19 and associated sociodemographic-contextual factors in Latin America / Autopercepción de la salud mental, COVID-19 y factores sociodemográficos y contextuales asociados en Latinoamérica / Autopercepção da saúde mental, COVID-19 e fatores sociodemográficos e contextuais associados na América Latina

Abstract This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of alterations in self-perceived mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic and their associated factors in four Latin American countries. This is a cross-sectional study based on data collected from adults in 2021 through the Collaborative Response COVID-19 Survey by the MacDonnell Academy at Washington University in St. Louis (United States). The sample was composed of 8,125 individuals from Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, and Chile. A generalized linear model for a binary outcome variable with a logistic link and fixed country effects was used. There were 2,336 (28.75%) individuals who considered having suffered alterations in self-perceived mental health. Unemployed individuals (OR = 1.40; 95%CI: 1.24-1.58), those with bad/regular quality of life (OR = 5.03; 95%CI: 4.01-6.31), and those with high socioeconomic status (OR = 1.66; 95%CI: 1.41-1.96) had a higher risk of self-perceived mental health alterations than those with full-time employment, excellent quality, and low socioeconomic status. According to the fixed-effects model, Brazilians living in the country during the pandemic, who disagreed with their government's decisions (OR = 2.05; 95%CI: 1.74-2.42) and lacked trust in their government (OR = 2.10; 95%CI: 1.74-2.42) had a higher risk of having self-perceived mental health alterations. Nearly 30% of respondents indicated that the COVID-19 pandemic altered their self-perceived mental health. This outcome was associated with political, sociodemographic, and health risk factors. These findings should help policymakers develop post-pandemic community interventions.

Resumen Este estudio tuvo como objetivo estimar la prevalencia de alteraciones en la autopercepción de la salud mental durante la pandemia de COVID-19 y sus factores asociados en cuatro países de América Latina. Este es un estudio transversal de datos recopilados de adultos en el 2021 por medio de la investigación Respuesta Colaborativa a COVID-19 de la Academia McDonnell en la Universidad Washington en St. Louis (Estados Unidos). La muestra estuvo compuesta por 8.125 personas de Brasil, Colombia, México y Chile. El estudio utilizó un modelo lineal generalizado para una variable de desenlace binario con un enlace logístico y efectos fijos por país. En total, 2.336 (28,75%) personas consideraron que habían sufrido alteraciones en la autopercepción de la salud mental. Los desempleados (OR = 1,40; IC95%: 1,24-1,58), aquellos con calidad de vida mala/regular (OR = 5,03; IC95%: 4,01-6,31) y aquellos con alto nivel socioeconómico (OR = 1,66; IC95%: 1,41-1,96) presentaron mayor riesgo de alteraciones en la autopercepción de la salud mental que aquellos con empleo a tiempo completo, excelente calidad y bajo nivel socioeconómico. Según el modelo de efectos fijos, los brasileños que vivían en el país durante la pandemia y que no estuvieron de acuerdo con las decisiones del gobierno (OR = 2,05; IC95%: 1,74-2,42) y no confiaban en su gobierno (OR = 2,10; IC95%: 1,74-2,42) presentaron mayor riesgo de alteraciones en la autopercepción de la salud mental. Casi el 30% de los encuestados indicaron que la pandemia de COVID-19 alteró su autopercepción de la salud mental. Este desenlace se asoció con factores políticos, sociodemográficos y de riesgo a la salud. Estos hallazgos deben ayudar a los formuladores de políticas a desarrollar intervenciones comunitarias pospandémicas.

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo estimar a prevalência de alterações na autopercepção de saúde mental durante a pandemia de COVID-19 e seus fatores associados em quatro países da América Latina. Este é um estudo transversal de dados coletados de adultos em 2021 por meio da pesquisa Resposta Colaborativa à COVID-19 da Academia McDonnell na Universidade Washington em St. Louis (Estados Unidos). A amostra foi composta por 8.125 pessoas do Brasil, Colômbia, México e Chile. O estudo utilizou um modelo linear generalizado para uma variável de desfecho binário com uma conexão logística e efeitos fixos do país. No total, 2.336 (28,75%) pessoas consideraram ter sofrido alterações na autopercepção de saúde mental. Os desempregados (OR = 1,40; IC95%: 1,24-1,58), aqueles com qualidade de vida ruim/regular (OR = 5,03; IC95%: 4,01-6,31) e aqueles com alto nível socioeconômico (OR = 1,66; IC95%: 1,41-1,96) apresentaram maior risco de alterações na autopercepção de saúde mental do que aqueles com emprego em tempo integral, excelente qualidade e baixo nível socioeconômico. De acordo com o modelo de efeitos fixos, os brasileiros que viviam no país durante a pandemia, que discordavam das decisões do governo (OR = 2,05; IC95%: 1,74-2,42) e não confiavam em seu governo (OR = 2,10; IC95%: 1,74-2,42) apresentaram maior risco de alterações na autopercepção de saúde mental. Quase 30% dos entrevistados indicaram que a pandemia da COVID-19 alterou sua autopercepção de saúde mental. Esse desfecho estava associado a fatores políticos, sociodemográficos e de risco à saúde. Estes achados devem ajudar os formuladores de políticas a desenvolver intervenções comunitárias pós-pandemia.

Calidad de vida y estrategias de afrontamiento en pacientes con cáncer ginecológico / Quality of life and coping strategies in patients with gynecological cancer

Resumen Introducción: El cáncer ginecológico impacta psicológicamente a la mujer. En este proceso las Estrategias de Afrontamiento-EA, al parecer, se asocian con la Calidad de Vida relacionada con la Salud-CvRS; sin embargo, se desconoce el valor predictivo de las EA sobre la CvRS. Este artículo tiene como finalidad identificar las diferencias y la naturaleza de la relación entre la CvRS y las EA respecto al apoyo psicológico, así como identificar si las EA predicen la CvRS. Método: Se efectuó un diseño no-experimental con 55 mujeres entre 27 y 69 años, M = 42.3, DE = 10.1, diagnosticadas con cáncer ginecológico. La CvRS se evaluó con el FACT-Cx y el SF-36; las EA, con el CAEPO. Resultados: las mujeres con asistencia psicológica tienen mejor CvRS y EA, igualmente, la CvRS se correlacionó con las EA positivas. La dimensión de salud general también es explicada por las EA positivas e inversamente por las EA negativas. Las EA que mejor predicen las CvRS son: Enfrentamiento y Lucha Activa, y Autocontrol y Control Emocional, mientras que las EA negativas afectan la CvRS. Conclusión: Los resultados resaltan la necesidad de acompañamiento psicológico que promueva EA positivas y beneficien la CvRS en mujeres con cáncer ginecológico.

Abstract Introduction: Gynecological cancer impacts women psychologically. In this process, the Coping Strategies-CS are apparently associated with Health-Related Quality of Life HRQL; however, the predictive value of CS on HRQL is unknown. This article aims to identify the differences and the nature of the relationship of HRQL and CS regarding psychological support, as well as to identify whether CS predict HRQL. Method: A non-experimental design was performed with 55 women between 27 and 69 years old, M = 42.3, DE = 10.1, diagnosed with gynecological cancer. The HRQL was evaluated with the FACT-Cx and the SF-36; and the CS, with CAEPO (Spanish acronym). Results: Women with psychological support have better HRQL and CS, likewise, HRQL was correlated with positive CS. The general health dimension is also explained by positive CS, and inversely by negative CS. The CS that best predict HRQL are: active confrontation and fighting, and self-control and emotional control, while negative CS affect HRQL. Conclusion: The results highlight the need for psychological support that promotes positive CS and benefits HRQL in women with gynecological cancer.

Actividad física y calidad de vida relacionada con la salud en una comunidad académica / Physical Activity and Health-Related Quality of Life in an academic community / Atividade física e qualidade de vida relacionada com a saúde numa comunidade académica

Resumen Objetivo. Explorar las diferencias entre los niveles de actividad física (AF) ‒ligero, moderado y vigoroso‒, en función a la Calidad de Vida Relacionada con la Salud (CvRS). Método. 269 participantes (M = 25.3, DE = 1.5) entre estudiantes, docentes y administrativos de una comunidad académica de Pereira, Colombia. La AF se evaluó con el International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) y la CvRS con el Cuestionario de Salud SF-36. Resultados. Quienes reportaron tener un nivel de AF moderado mostraron significativamente mejor vitalidad, salud mental y salud en general (p < 0.05). Mientras que aquellos con nivel de AF vigoroso promediaron más alto en salud general. Los niveles de AF moderado y vigoroso, en comparación con el ligero, presentaron mayor puntaje en la salud general y mental (p < 0.05). Conclusión. Este estudio aportó evidencia a favor de la hipótesis del vínculo entre AF y CvRS; además, reveló que aquellos con niveles de AF moderado y vigoroso presentan mejor CvRS en dimensiones de función social, vitalidad y salud general y mental. Futuros estudios deberían enfocarse en diferenciar los niveles de AF que mejor favorecen la CvRS, principalmente, en población escolar .

Abstract Objective. To explore the Physical Activity (PA) levels ‒Low, Medium and High‒ differences according to Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQL). Method. 269 participants (M = 25.3, SD = 1.5) between, students, teachers and administrators of an academic community of Pereira, Colombia. The PA was assessed with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and the HRQL through the SF-36. Results. Those who reported having a moderate PA level showed significantly best vitality, mental health outcomes, and overall health (p < 0.05). While those with vigorous PA level averaged higher in overall health. The moderate and vigorous PA levels, compared to the low level, showed a higher score in general health and mental health (p < 0.05). Conclusion. This study provides evidence in favor of the link between PA and HRQL hypothesis; in addition, those subjects who self-report moderate and vigorous PA levels showed better HRQL in the social function, vitality, general health, and mental health dimensions. Future studies should emphasize the different PA levels that will favor the HRQL, principally, in school population.

Resumo Escopo. Explorar as diferenças entre os níveis de atividade física (AF) leve, moderado e vigoroso, em função à Qualidade de Vida Relacionada com a Saúde (CvRS). Metodologia. 269 participantes (M = 25.3, DE = 1.5) entre estudantes, docentes e administrativos de uma comunidade académica de Pereira, Colômbia. A AF foi avaliada com o International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) e a CvRS com o Questionário de Saúde SF-36. Resultados. Quem reportou ter um nível de AF moderado mostrou significativamente melhor vitalidade, saúde mental e saúde em geral (p < 0.05). Enquanto que aqueles com nível de AF vigoroso tem de média maior saúde geral. Os níveis de AF moderado e vigoroso, em comparação com o leve apresentaram maior pontuação na saúde geral e mental (p < 0.05). Conclusão. Este estudo aportou provas a favor da hipóteses do vínculo entre AF e CvRS; além, revelou que aqueles com níveis de AF moderado e vigoroso apresentam melhor CvRS em dimensões de função social, vitalidade e saúde geral e mental. Futuros estudos deverão se enfocar em diferenciar os níveis de AF que melhor favorecem a CvRS, principalmente, em população escolar.

Empatía y Teoría de la Mente: comparación entre deportistas y no deportistas / Empathy and Theory of the Mind: A Comparison between Athletes and Non-Athletes / Empatia e Teoria da Mente: comparação entre atletas e não atletas

Resumen Objetivo. Comparar la dimensión de cognición social de la Teoría de la Mente (ToM, por sus siglas en inglés) y la empatía entre deportistas y no deportistas. Método. Se ejecutó un diseño transversal con muestreo intencional, en el que 46 deportistas (Medad = 18.2, DE = 4.5) y 48 no deportistas (Medad= 20.2, DE = 3.5) completaron la Tarea de Empatía por el Dolor y el Test de las Miradas. Resultados. No se hallaron diferencias en la ToM, t(92) = 1.21, p = 0.228, d = 0.25. El Anova factorial mixto 3x2 indicó que el comportamiento de empatía es homogéneo por las condiciones (neutral, accidental e intencional) y grupos (deportistas vs no deportistas), F(2, 92) = 0.127, p = 0.881, ηp2 = 0.001. Sin embargo, la comparación de medias mostró diferencias favorables para deportistas en la condición de estímulos neutrales (p < 0.05). Conclusión. No hay variabilidad de la ToM, ni en las condiciones de accidentalidad e intencionalidad en el aspecto empático; mientras que en estímulos neutrales, el promedio difiere favorablemente para los deportistas.

Abstract Objective. To compare the social cognition dimension of Theory of Mind (ToM) and empathy between athletes and non-athletes. Method. A cross-sectional design was executed with intentional sampling, in which 46 athletes (Mage = 18.2, SD = 4.5) and 48 non-athletes (Mage = 20.2, SD= 3.5) completed the Empathy for Pain Task and the Gaze Test. Results. No differences were found in the ToM, t(92) = 1.21, p = 0.228, d = 0.25. The mixed factorial Anova, 3x2 indicated that the empathy behavior is homogeneous between conditions (neutral, accidental, and intentional) and groups (athletes and non-athletes), F(2, 92)= 0.127, p = 0.881, ηp2 = 0.001. However, the post-hoc analysis of Bonferroni showed favorable stimulus differences in neutral stimuli (p < 0.05). Conclusion. There is no variability of the ToM, and conditions of accident and intentionality at the empathic level; while in neutral condition the average differs favorably for athletes.

Resumo Escopo. Comparar a dimensão de cognição social da Teoria da Mente (ToM, por suas siglas em inglês) e a empatia entre atletas e não atletas. Metodologia. Foi executado um desenho transversal com amostragem intencional, no que 46 atletas (Midade= 18.2, DE = 4.5) e 48 não atletas (Midade = 20.2, DE = 3.5) completaram a Tarefa de Empatia pela dor e o Test das Miradas. Resultados. Não foram encontradas diferenças na ToM, t(92) = 1.21, p = 0.228, d = 0.25. O Anova fatorial misto 3x2 indicou que o comportamento de empatia é homogéneo pelas condições (neutral, acidental e intencional) e grupos (atletas vs não atletas) F(2, 92) = 0.127, p = 0.881, ηp2 = 0.001. Mesmo assim, a comparação de médias mostrou diferenças favoráveis para atleta na condição de estímulos neutrais (p < 0.05). Conclusão. Não tem variabilidade da ToM, nem nas condições de acidentalidade e intencionalidade no aspeto empático; enquanto que nos estímulos neutrais, a média difere favoravelmente para os atletas.

Desempeño neuropsicológico e indicadores de frecuencia, duración y tiempo de la sesión del ejercicio físico / Neuropsychological Performance and Indicators of Frequency, Duration and Time of the Physical Exercise Session / Desempenho Neuropsicológico e indicadores de frequência, duração e tempo da sessão do exercício físico

Resumen Objetivo. El ejercicio físico (EF) se relaciona con estructuras cerebrales y funcionamiento cognitivo; sin embargo, se desconocen indicadores de frecuencia, duración e intensidad del EF asociados a procesos neuropsicológicos. Estudiar la relación y las posibles diferencias entre las funciones ejecutivas (FE) y los indicadores del EF (frecuencia, duración y tiempo que lleva practicando EF). Método. Se seleccionó una muestra intencional de treinta sujetos físicamente activos, pareados por sexo ( Medad = 22.9, DE = 8.5). Se aplicó la totalidad de la Batería de Funciones Ejecutivas y Lóbulos Frontales (Banfe). Resultados. El desempeño neuropsicológico se relacionó con la frecuencia del EF en tareas que evalúan capacidades de control inhibitorio, seguimiento de límites y normas, memoria de trabajo visoespacial y anticipación de acciones de orden progresivo y regresivo. La duración y el tiempo de entrenamiento presentaron relación con la planeación, respeto por los límites y la inhibición. Aquellos participantes que se ejercitan más de seis veces por semana presentaron mejor desempeño en los aciertos y menor número de errores en el control inhibitorio. No se diferencia el desempeño neuropsicológico en función a indicadores y tipo de EF. Conclusión. Se confirma la hipótesis acerca de que el EF se asocia con procesos neuropsicológicos. Se abren posibles implicaciones científicas, educativas y clínicas.

Abstract Objective. Physical Exercise (PE) is related to cerebral structures and cognitive functioning. Nevertheless, PE indicators of frequency, duration, intensity and neuropsychological processes are unknown. The goal was to study the relationship and the possible differences between executive functions (EF) and PE indicators (frequency, duration and time PE is being practiced). Method. We selected an intentional sample of thirty physically active subjects, paired by sex (Age mean = 22.9, SD = 8.5). We used the whole assessment of Executive Functions and Frontal Lobes Battery (BANFE). Results. Neuropsychological performance was related to the PE frequency in tasks that assess inhibitory control, monitoring of limits and rules, visual-spatial working memory and predicting in reversal and progressive order actions. The duration and time of training showed relationship with planning and inhibition control. The participants who exercise more than six times a week showed a better performance and less number of inhibition control mistakes. Neuropsychological performance dependent on indicators and type of PE are not distinguished. Conclusion. The hypothesis is confirmed. There is a relationship between PE and neuropsychological processes with possible scientific, educational and clinical implications.

Resumo Escopo. O Exercício Físico (EF) está relacionado com estruturas cerebrais e funcionamento cognitivo. Porém são desconhecidos indicadores de frequência, duração e intensidade de EF associados aos processos neuropsicológicos. Estudar a relação e as possíveis diferenças entre as Funções Executivas (FE) e indicadores do EF (Frequência, Duração e Tempo que leva praticando EF). Metodologia. Foi selecionada uma amostra intencional de trinta sujeitos ativamente físicos, pareados por sexo ( Midade= 22.9, DE= 8.5). Foi aplicada a totalidade da Bateria de Funções Executivas e Lóbulos Frontais (BANFE). Resultados. O desempenho neuropsicológico esteve relacionado com a Frequência do EF em tarefas que avaliam capacidades de controle inibitório, seguimento de limites e normas, memória de trabalho vioespacial, e antecipação de ações de ordem progressiva e regressiva. A duração e o tempo de treinamento apresentaram relação com o planejamento, respeito pelos limites e a inibição. Aqueles participantes que se exercitaram mais de seis vezes por semana apresentaram melhor desempenho nos sucessos e menor número de erros no controle inibitório. Não houve diferença no desempenho neuropsicológico em função a indicadores e tipo de EF. Conclusão. Foi confirmada a hipótese de que o EF está associado com processos neuropsicológicos. Foram abertas possíveis implicações científicas, educativas e clínicas.

Effect of Acute Physical Exercise on Executive Functions and Emotional Recognition: Analysis of Moderate to High Intensity in Young Adults.

Physical exercise (PE) is associated with cognitive changes and brain function. However, it is required to clarify the effect of PE in different intensities, population groups conditions and the EF duration over different cognitive domains. Besides, no studies are known to have evaluated the contextual emotional recognition. Therefore, we studied the effect of acute PE of moderate intensities up to higher ones to the executive functions and the contextual emotional recognition. The participants were evaluated and classified in two experiments according to the IPAQ short form self-report and control measures. In both experiments, the groups were randomized, controlled, and exposed to one session of indoor cycling through intervals of high measure intensity (75-85% HRmax). Experiment 1 comprised young adults who were physically active (PA) and healthy, apparently (n = 54, M age = 20.7, SD = 2.5). Experiment 2 involved young adults who were physically inactive (IP) and healthy, apparently (n = 36, M age = 21.6, SD = 1.8). The duration was the only factor that varied: 45 min for PA and 30 min for PI. The executive functions were evaluated by the Stroop, TMT A/B, and verbal fluency, and the emotional recognition through a task that includes body and facial emotions in context, simultaneously. The analysis of factorial mixed ANOVA showed effects on the right choices of the indoor cycling groups in the PA, and the time response in PI. Also, other effects were observed in the controlled groups. TMT-A/B measures showed changes in the pre-test-post-test measures for both experiments. Verbal fluency performance favored the control group in both experiments. Meanwhile, the emotional recognition showed an effect of the PE in error-reduction and enhanced the scores in the right choices of body emotions. These results suggest that the EF with intensities favored cognitive processes such as inhibitory control and emotional recognition in context. We took into account the importance of high-complexity tasks design that avoid a ceiling effect. This study is the first on reporting a positive effect of PE over the emotional contextual recognition. Important clinical and educational implications are presented implications which highlight the modulatory role of EF with moderate to high intensities.

Imagen corporal (IC) y estrategias de afrontamiento (EA): Análisis de las características médico quirúrgicas en mujeres con diagnóstico de cáncer de mama / Body image (BI) and coping strategies (CS): Analysis of medical and surgical characteristics in women diagnosed with breast cancer

Resumen A partir de un diseño No-experimental transversal, se buscó identificar la posible relación entre la IC y las EA, y sus diferencias según variables médico quirúrgicas (intervención quirúrgica, tiempo de diagnóstico y estadio del cáncer). Participaron treinta y siete mujeres diagnosticadas con cáncer de mama de todos los estadios. Se usó el Cuestionario de Afrontamiento al Estrés para Pacientes Oncológicos (CAEPO), la Escala de Imagen Corporal (BIS) y un cuestionario Ad-hoc. No se encontró relación entre la IC y las EA, y éstas no varían según la intervención quirúrgica (mastectomía radical y cirugía conservadora), el tiempo de diagnóstico en años (menos de 1, entre 1 y 3, entre 3 y 5, y más de 5), o el estadio (0 o in situ, I, II, III y IV); sin embargo, las pacientes que no recibieron intervención quirúrgica evidenciaron mayor deterioro de su IC que aquellas que sí lo hicieron.

Abstract From a non-experimental transverse design, we sought to identify the possible relationship between BI and CS, and their differences according to surgical-medical variables (surgical intervention, time of diagnosis and stage of cancer). Thirty-seven women diagnosed with breast cancer from all stages participated. The Stress Coping Questionnaire for Oncological Patients (CAEPO), the Body Image Scale (BIS) and an Ad-hoc questionnaire were used. No relationship was found between BI and CS, and these did not vary according to the surgical procedure (radical mastectomy and conservative surgery), the time of diagnosis in years (less than 1, between 1 and 3, between 3 and 5, and more of 5), or the stage (0 or in situ, I, II, III and IV); however, the patients who did not receive surgical intervention showed greater deterioration of their BI than those who did.