Diagnostic pathways of Chagas disease in Spain: a qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: Due to the mobility of the population in recent years and the spread of Chagas disease (CD) to non-endemic regions, early diagnosis and treatment of CD has become increasingly relevant in non-endemic countries. In order for screening to be effective, health system accessibility must be taken into consideration. This study uses Tanahashi's Health Service Coverage model to gain a deeper understanding of the main diagnostic pathways for Chagas disease in a non-endemic country and the barriers and bottlenecks present in each pathway. METHODS: This study used a qualitative design with a phenomenological approach. Twenty-one interviews, two focus group sessions, and two triangular group sessions were conducted between 2015 and 2018 with 37 Bolivian men and women diagnosed with CD in Madrid, Spain. A topic guide was designed to ensure that the interviewers obtained the data concerning knowledge of CD (transmission, symptoms, and treatment), attitudes towards CD, and health behaviour (practices in relation to CD). All interviews, focus groups and triangular groups were recorded and transcribed. A thematic, inductive analysis based on Grounded Theory was performed by two researchers. RESULTS: Three main pathways to CD diagnosis were identified: 1) pregnancy or blood/organ donation, with no bottlenecks in effective coverage; 2) an individual actively seeking CD testing, with bottlenecks relating to administrative, physical, and time-related accessibility, and effectiveness based on the healthcare professional's knowledge of CD; 3) an individual not actively seeking CD testing, who expresses psychological discomfort or embarrassment about visiting a physician, with a low perception of risk, afraid of stigma, and testing positive, and with little confidence in physicians' knowledge of CD. CONCLUSIONS: Existing bottlenecks in the three main diagnostic pathways for CD are less prevalent during pregnancy and blood donation, but are more prevalent in individuals who do not voluntarily seek serological testing for CD. Future screening protocols will need to take these bottlenecks into consideration to achieve effective coverage.

Mapping health behaviour related to Chagas diagnosis in a non-endemic country: Application of Andersen's Behavioural Model.

BACKGROUND: Chagas disease has become a challenge for non-endemic countries since population mobility has increased in recent years and it has spread to these regions. In order to prevent vertical transmission and improve the prognosis of the disease, it is important to make an early diagnosis. And to develop strategies that improve access to diagnosis, it is important to know the factors that most influence the decision of the population to know their serological status. For this reason, this study uses Andersen's Behavioural Model and its proposed strategies to explore the health behaviours of Bolivian population. METHODS: Twenty-three interviews, two focus groups, and two triangular groups were performed with Bolivian men and women, involving a total of 39 participants. In addition, four interviews were conducted with key informants in contact with Bolivian population to delve into possible strategies to improve the Chagas diagnosis. RESULTS: The most relevant facts for the decision to being diagnosed pointed out by participants were having relatives who were sick or deceased from Chagas disease or, for men, having their pregnant wife with a positive result. After living in Spain more than ten years, population at risk no longer feels identified with their former rural origin and the vector. Moreover, their knowledge and awareness about diagnosis and treatment still remains low, especially in younger people. Limitations on access to healthcare professionals and services were also mentioned, and proposed strategies focused on eliminating these barriers and educating the population in preventive behaviours. CONCLUSIONS: Based on Andersen's Behavioural Model, the results obtained regarding the factors that most influence the decision to carry out Chagas diagnosis provide information that could help to develop strategies to improve access to health services and modify health behaviours related to Chagas screening.

[Risk Perception among health professionals in the first case of secondary Ebola infection in Spain. Case study.] / Percepción del riesgo de los profesionales sanitarios ante el primer caso de infección secundaria por ébola en España.

In 2014, the first case of secondary Ebola infection outside Africa detected in Spain, caused a sense of global threat. This study assess Risk Perception amongst the health personnel and identify the agents that amplified or reduced it. Through a snowball sampling, 5 in-depth interviews were carried out. Inclusion´s criteria: treating the patient suspected of Ebola and/or of having been actively involved in the management of the crisis. Triangulation and member checking were used to validate findings. Field work was between February and June 2015. In Risk Perception´s construction were involved Formation, Management of Information and Trust. Political and Health Authorities, Media and Unions acted as amplifiers whereas the Expert Committee and Hospital Management as reducers. Peer-to-peer behavior acted as a reducer amongst the medical staff and as an amplifier between the nursing and cleaning staff. This information would be relevant to better manage a health crisis of this characteristics.

En 2014, el primer caso de infección secundaria por ébola fuera de África detectado en España provocó una sensación de amenaza global. Este estudio evaluó la Percepción de Riesgo (PR) entre el personal de sanitario e identificó los agentes que la amplificaron o la redujeron. A través de un muestreo de bola de nieve, se realizaron 5 entrevistas en profundidad, siendo los criterios de inclusión: tratar al paciente con sospecha de ébola y/o haber participado activamente en el manejo de la crisis en el centro hospitalario. Se utilizó la triangulación para validar y verificación los resultados. El trabajo de campo se realizó entre febrero y junio de 2015. Los factores claves en la construcción de Percepción de Riesgo fueron la formación, la gestión de la información, el trato percibido por el personal sanitario y la confianza en las autoridades sanitarias. Las autoridades políticas y sanitarias, los medios de comunicación y los sindicatos actuaron como amplificadores de la PR, el Comité de Expertos y la Dirección del hospital lo hicieron como reductores de la PR. El comportamiento entre iguales actuó como reductor entre el personal médico y como amplificador entre el personal de enfermería y de limpieza. Se trata de información relevante de cara a manejar situaciones de crisis sanitarias de similares características.

Key Chagas disease missing knowledge among at-risk population in Spain affecting diagnosis and treatment.

BACKGROUND: Chagas disease is endemic in Latin America and, over the last few decades, due to population movements, the disease has spread to other continents. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical in terms of improving outcomes for those living with Chagas disease. However, poor knowledge and awareness is one of barriers that affects access to Chagas disease diagnosis and treatment for the population at risk. Information regarding immigrants' knowledge concerning Chagas disease control and prevention is insufficient in non-endemic countries and, therefore, this study sought to assess Chagas disease knowledge and awareness within the Bolivian community residing in Madrid. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was carried out in March-August 2017. A total of 376 Bolivians answered a structured questionnaire. A knowledge index was created based on respondents' knowledge about transmission, symptoms, diagnosis, and place to seek treatment. Multivariate logistic regressions analyses were performed to assess the factors associated with respondents' knowledge of Chagas disease. RESULTS: A total 159 (42.4%) of Bolivians interviewed about their knowledge of Chagas disease were men and 217 (57.6%) were women. Vinchuca was mentioned as mode of transmission by 71% of the Bolivians surveyed, while only 9% mentioned vertical transmission. Almost half of the Bolivians did not know any symptom of Chagas disease and only 47% knew that a specific blood test is necessary for diagnosis. Most of Bolivians were aware of the severity of Chagas disease, but 45% of Bolivians said that there is no cure for Chagas and 96% did not know any treatment. Based on the index of knowledge generated, only 34% of Bolivians had a good knowledge about Chagas disease transmission, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. According to the multiple logistic regression analysis, knowledge regarding Chagas disease, diagnosis and treatment was significantly higher amongst older Bolivians who had secondary education at least, as well as amongst those who had already been tested for Chagas disease. CONCLUSIONS: This study found that most of the Bolivian population living in Spain had poor knowledge about Chagas disease transmission, symptoms, diagnostic methods and treatment. A poor understanding of the disease transmission and management is one of the most important barriers when it comes to searching for early diagnosis and appropriate care.

Factors associated with Chagas screening among immigrants from an endemic country in Madrid, Spain.

INTRODUCTION: Approximately 120,000 people live with Chagas disease in Europe, 43% of whom are living in Spain. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to improve outcomes for those living with Chagas, and also for the prevention of ongoing transmission. The decision to be tested for Chagas is affected by a range of factors. Studies have highlighted the need to consider the wider social determinants of healthcare seeking behaviour related to Chagas. In Madrid, 44% of Bolivians undergo Chagas screening, which is a higher rate than other European regions, but studies concerning the factors which determine testing have not been performed. This study aimed to assess, for a first time, the factors associated with screening for Chagas among Bolivians living in Madrid trying to help in developing strategies and health recommendations. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional survey about knowledge of Chagas and practices of Bolivians living in Madrid, Spain. A structured questionnaire was administered to 376 participants regarding Chagas health-seeking behaviour. Determinants were assessed by multiple logistic regressions adjusted by sex. RESULTS: After adjusting for others variables and sex, the factors shown to be associated with Chagas screening were to have between 35 and 54 years of age; coming from a department with high prevalence of Chagas (OR 2.17 95% CI 0.99-4.76); received information about Chagas in Spain (OR 2.44 95% CI 1.32-4.51); and received any advice to do the test, especially if the advice came from a professional. CONCLUSIONS: Health authorities should coordinate and promote strategies addressed to diagnose and treat Chagas taking into account all factors associated with screening. Our study suggests that professional advice appears to be the cornerstone to encourage Bolivians to undergo Chagas screening in Madrid. It is time to change the burden of the decision of being screened from the patient to the doctor. Being diagnosed for Chagas needs to become an institutional strategy.

The role of the first level of health care in the approach to Chagas disease in a non-endemic country.

BACKGROUND: Chagas disease has crossed South America's borders and in recent years has spread to regions that were not previously affected. Early diagnosis and treatment of Chagas disease improves the clinical prognosis and prevents vertical transmission. Taking into account the lack of evidence of how primary care services manage Chagas disease in a non-endemic country, this study assessed Chagas disease knowledge, attitudes and practices among primary health care professionals. METHODS AND PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Between 2017 and 2019, eight focus groups were formed with 41 family physicians and 40 nurses from healthcare centers in Madrid, Spain, and 70 field notes were collected during non-participant observation. The family physicians and nurses showed a lack of general knowledge about Chagas disease, and they did not identify the country of origin to request the blood test. The family physicians and nurses thought that the population did not talk broadly about Chagas disease because of the stigma or shame. The role of nurses was more focused on vaccination status and chronic disease follow-up, and family physicians assumed a facilitating role to send patients to different hospital facilities. Communication between primary care professionals and the hospital is a barrier frequently experienced by family physicians. CONCLUSIONS: The diagnosis of CD in non-endemic countries continues being an important challenge for health systems. The results obtained with the study of the knowledge, attitudes and practices at primary care through a qualitative approach allows to obtain evidence that could help to develop strategies for the screening of CD in a protocolized way in order to avoid that the diagnosis depends exclusively on the request of the patient.

Chagas screening and treatment among Bolivians living in Madrid, Spain: The need for an official protocol.

BACKGROUND: It is estimated that around 52,000 people live with Chagas in Spain, but only 10% have been diagnosed. Migrants from Bolivia bear the burden of Chagas infection in Spain. However, little is known about their current management of Chagas diagnosis and treatment patterns. This study aimed to assess the Chagas related disease perception and health behaviour of Bolivians living in Madrid. METHODS AND PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: For a first time, a cross-sectional survey about Chagas' knowledges and practices was carried out in Madrid, Spain. A total of 376 Bolivians were interviewed about their Chagas health-seeking behaviour. Differences between men and women were assessed Most of Bolivians living in Madrid have access to the public health services. 44% of Bolivians included in the survey had a Chagas screening test done. However, while women did their test for Chagas mostly at hospital (59.2%), men also used the community campaigns (17.5%) and blood banks (14.3%). The prevalence reported among Bolivians tested was 27.7%. Unfortunately, more than half of those reporting a positive test for Chagas did not begin or completed treatment. Only 45.7% of positives reported having had their children tested for Chagas. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the increase in the number of Chagas diagnoses done in Madrid, the number of Bolivians who tested positive and then started or completed treatment remains very low. The fact that most Bolivians' access to the health system is through the primary healthcare services should be considered for improving management of cases and follow-up of treatment adherence. Local and national protocol establishing guidelines for the screening and treatment of Chagas disease would help improving case detection and management at all levels of the healthcare system.

Cross-sectional, descriptive study of Chagas disease among citizens of Bolivian origin living in Munich, Germany.

PURPOSE: Chagas disease (CD) has become a global health issue mainly due to migration. Germany lacks surveillance data and is home to a large Latin American immigrant population. Recognising that Bolivia is the country with the highest CD prevalence in Latin America, this cross-sectional, descriptive pilot study investigated CD and associated factors among citizens of Bolivian origin living in Munich, Germany. METHODS: Participants completed a questionnaire in order to collect socioeconomic and health-related data. In addition, serology was performed. In case of positive serological tests, PCR diagnostic and clinical staging together with disease management was initiated. Qualitative research was conducted to identify personal and community barriers as well as strategies to increase CD awareness among the population at risk. RESULTS: Between June 2013 and June 2014, 43 people from Bolivia (or descendants) were enrolled. A total of 9.3% (4/43), of whom two women were of childbearing age, tested seropositive (ELISA and IFAT), and one also by PCR. For 2/4 positive participants, clinical evaluation was performed and the indeterminate form of CD was diagnosed. Knowledge about CD symptoms and ways of transmission were completely absent among 55.8% (24/43, 2/4 with CD) and 30.2% (13/43, 1/4 with CD) of participants, respectively. A total of 27.9% (12/43, 0/4 with CD) of participants had donated blood prior to the study, whereas 62.8% (27/43, 3/4 with CD) were motivated to donate blood in the future. The qualitative research identified lack of knowledge as well as stigma and fears related to CD. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the small number of participants, the prevalence of CD as well as the potential risk of non-vectorial transmission was alarming. Campaigns adapted for Latin American migrants as well as control strategies should be developed and put in place in order to prevent non-vectorial transmission and actively detect cases of CD in Germany.

Knowledge and experiences of Chagas disease in Bolivian women living in Spain: a qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: In Europe, Spain has the highest number of people with Chagas disease (CD). Bolivian migrants account for 81% of the reported cases. One of the priorities in controlling the disease is prevention of mother-to-child transmission. Despite under-diagnosis in Spain being estimated at 90%, there are currently few studies that explore the social and cultural dimensions of this disease. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to explore the knowledge and experiences of Bolivian women with CD, in order to generate a useful understanding for the design and implementation of public health initiatives. DESIGN: Qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews, triangular groups, and field notes. PARTICIPANTS: Fourteen Bolivian women with CD living in Madrid. RESULTS: The participants were aware that the disease was transmitted through the vector, that it could be asymptomatic, and that it could also be associated with sudden death by heart failure. They opined that the treatment as such could not cure the disease but only slow it down. There was a sense of indifference along with a lack of understanding of the risk of contracting the disease. Participants who presented with symptoms, or those with relatives suffering from the disease, were concerned about fatalities, cardiac problems, and possible vertical transmission. There was also a fear of being rejected by others. The disease was described as something that affected a large number of people but only showed up in a few cases and that too after many years. There was a widespread assumption that it was better not to know because doing so, allows the disease to take hold. CONCLUSIONS: Disease risk perception was very low in Bolivian women living in Madrid. This factor, together with the fear of being screened, may be contributing to the current rate of under-diagnosis.

Economic evaluation of Chagas disease screening in Spain.

Although Spain is the European country with the highest Chagas disease burden, the country does not have a national control program of the disease. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficiency of several strategies for Chagas disease screening among Latin American residents living in Spain. The following screening strategies were evaluated: (1) non-screening; (2) screening of the Latin American pregnant women and their newborns; (3) screening also the relatives of the positive pregnant women; (4) screening also the relatives of the negative pregnant women. A cost-utility analysis was carried out to compare the four strategies from two perspectives, the societal and the Spanish National Health System (SNHS). A decision tree representing the clinical evolution of Chagas disease throughout patient's life was built. The strategies were compared through the incremental cost-utility ratio, using euros as cost measurement and quality-adjusted life years as utility measurement. A sensitivity analysis was performed to test the model parameters and their influence on the results. We found the "Non-screening" as the most expensive and less effective of the evaluated strategies, from both the societal and the SNHS perspectives. Among the screening evaluated strategies the most efficient was, from both perspectives, to extent the antenatal screening of the Latin American pregnant women and their newborns up to the relatives of the positive women. Several parameters influenced significantly on the sensitivity analyses, particularly the chronic treatment efficacy or the prevalence of Chagas disease. In conclusion, for the general Latin American immigrants living in Spain the most efficient would be to screen the Latin American mothers, their newborns and the close relatives of the mothers with a positive serology. However for higher prevalence immigrant population the most efficient intervention would be to extend the program to the close relatives of the negative mothers.

Factors associated with the utilization of primary care emergency centers in a Spanish region with high population dispersion: a mixed-methods study.

BACKGROUND: Adequate access to primary care emergency centers is particularly important in rural areas isolated from urban centers. However, variability in utilization of emergency services located in primary care centers among inhabitants of nearby geographical areas is understudied. The objectives of this study are twofold: 1) to analyze the association between the availability of municipal emergency care centers and utilization of primary care emergency centers (PCEC), in a Spanish region with high population dispersion; and 2) to determine healthcare providers' perceptions regarding PCEC utilization. METHODS: A mixed-methods study was conducted. Quantitative phase: multilevel logistic regression modeling using merged data from the 2003 Regional Health Survey of Castile and Leon and the 2001 census data (Spain). Qualitative phase:14 in-depth- interviews of rural-based PCEC providers. RESULTS: Having PCEC as the only emergency center in the municipality was directly associated with its utilization (p < 0.001). Healthcare providers perceived that distance to hospital increased PCEC utilization, and distance to PCEC decrease its use. PCEC users were considered to be predominantly workers and students with scheduling conflicts with rural primary care opening hours. CONCLUSIONS: The location of emergency care centers is associated with PCEC utilization. Increasing access to primary care by extending hours may be an important step toward optimal PCEC utilization. Further research would determine whether lower PCEC use by certain groups is associated with disparities in access to care.

The effect of distance on the use of emergency hospital services in a Spanish region with high population dispersion: a multilevel analysis.

BACKGROUND: There is geographic variability in the use of hospital emergency services. The effect of distance to the hospital on this variability is unknown. OBJECTIVES: (a) To analyze the independent effect of distance on use of hospital emergency services; (b) to describe the variability among municipalities in use of hospital emergency services and to analyze how much of this variability is explained by distance. RESEARCH DESIGN: Weighted cross-sectional data from the 2003 Regional Health Survey of Castile and Leon were linked with municipal-level data from the 2001 Census, municipal health resources, and distance from municipality to hospital. SUBJECTS: : Sample of 4281 adults residing in 179 municipalities of the region of Castile and Leon. MEASURES: Using multilevel logistic regression models with random intercept, we analyzed the association between distance to hospital and use of hospital emergency services. RESULTS: The proportion of the sample using hospital emergency services in the last year was 14.4%. The multivariate analysis showed a significant inverse association between distance to hospital and use of emergency services (P=0.001). Use of hospital emergency services varied widely across municipalities (variance 0.484; standard error 0.132). Some 12.8% of the variability is attributable to differences among municipalities. The model explained 31.6% of the variability. CONCLUSION: : Distance is a barrier to accessing hospital emergency services. There is large variability among municipalities in the use of emergency services not explained by the model. Variables related with the capacity of primary care facilities to resolve emergencies may reduce part of the observed variability.

Abandono del tratamiento antituberculoso en la población inmigrante: la movilidad y la falta de apoyo familiar / Antituberculosis treatment default among the immigrant population: mobility and lack of family support

Objetivo: Conocer los resultados del tratamiento antituberculoso entre la población inmigrante e identificar las variables asociadas a su abandono. Métodos: Estudio de cohortes prospectivo que incluye los casos de tuberculosis en población inmigrante, mayor de 15 años, diagnosticados en 15 hospitales públicos de la Comunidad de Madrid, durante el año 2003. En primer lugar se realizó un estudio descriptivo y posteriormente se efectuó un análisis bivariado/multivariado mediante regresiones logísticas. La variable dependiente fue abandono del tratamiento frente a tratamiento satisfactorio. Resultados: De 296 casos, el 75,0% tuvo un resultado del tratamiento satisfactorio; abandono 8,4%; muerte 2%; fracaso 0,7%; traslados 7,1% y pérdidas de información 6,8%. Las variables que se asociaron al abandono del tratamiento de forma independiente fueron el sexo (ref. varón) (odds ratio [OR]: 0,18; intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC95%]: 0,03–0,95), la convivencia con familiares (ref no) (OR: 0,23; IC95%: 0,08–0,66) y desplazarse a otra comunidad autónoma (OR: 5,52; IC95%: 1,17–25,93) frente a no desplazarse. Conclusiones: Es necesario mejorar los resultados del tratamiento antituberculoso en la población inmigrante. Para ello se debe mejorar la coordinación sanitaria en caso de desplazamiento y dirigir estrategias que faciliten el cumplimento del tratamiento entre las personas que no conviven con sus familiares (AU)

Objective: To identify antituberculosis treatment outcomes among the immigrant population and determine the variables associated with treatment default. Methods: We performed a prospective cohort study that included cases of tuberculosis in immigrants older than 15 years diagnosed in 15 public hospitals of the Community of Madrid in 2003. Firstly, a descriptive study was performed. Subsequently, a bivariate/multivariate analysis was performed using logistic regressions. The dependent variable was treatment default vs successful treatment. Results: Of 296 cases, 75.0% successfully completed the treatment, 8.4% defaulted, 2% died, 0.7% showed treatment failure, and 7.1% transferred out; information loss occurred in 6.8%. The variables independently associated with treatment default were female sex (odds ratio [OR]: 0.18; 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 0.03–0.95), living with relatives (0.23 [0.08–0.66]) and moving to another autonomous community (5.52 [1.17–25.93]) compared with not moving. Conclusions: Antituberculosis treatment outcomes in the immigrant population need to be improved. To achieve this aim, healthcare coordination should be improved in the mobile population and strategies to increase treatment compliance among persons not living with relatives are required (AU)

[Antituberculosis treatment default among the immigrant population: mobility and lack of family support]. / Abandono del tratamiento antituberculoso en la población inmigrante: la movilidad y la falta de apoyo familiar.

OBJECTIVE: To identify antituberculosis treatment outcomes among the immigrant population and determine the variables associated with treatment default. METHODS: We performed a prospective cohort study that included cases of tuberculosis in immigrants older than 15 years diagnosed in 15 public hospitals of the Community of Madrid in 2003. Firstly, a descriptive study was performed. Subsequently, a bivariate/multivariate analysis was performed using logistic regressions. The dependent variable was treatment default vs successful treatment. RESULTS: Of 296 cases, 75.0% successfully completed the treatment, 8.4% defaulted, 2% died, 0.7% showed treatment failure, and 7.1% transferred out; information loss occurred in 6.8%. The variables independently associated with treatment default were female sex (odds ratio [OR]: 0.18; 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 0.03-0.95), living with relatives (0.23 [0.08-0.66]) and moving to another autonomous community (5.52 [1.17-25.93]) compared with not moving. CONCLUSIONS: Antituberculosis treatment outcomes in the immigrant population need to be improved. To achieve this aim, healthcare coordination should be improved in the mobile population and strategies to increase treatment compliance among persons not living with relatives are required.

Conocimientos, actitudes y percepciones de la población inmigrante latinoamericana enferma de tuberculosis en la Comunidad de Madrid / Knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of the Latin-American immigrant population of tuberculosis in the Community of Madrid

ObjetivoIdentificar los conocimientos, actitudes y percepciones que tiene la población latinoamericana de la Comunidad de Madrid sobre la tuberculosis, tras el alta hospitalaria.DiseñoEstudio transversal.EmplazamientoComunidad de Madrid.ParticipantesPoblación latinoamericana, mayor de 15 años, no institucionalizada, diagnosticada de tuberculosis durante el año 2003 (1 de enero-31 de diciembre).MedicionesSe realizó un estudio descriptivo y un estudio analítico. La medida de asociación utilizada fueron las odds ratio (OR) y los intervalos de confianza (IC) del 95% que se calcularon por regresiones logísticas no condicionales, mediante modelos univariables y multivariables. Las variables dependientes: tener conocimientos correctos sobre la enfermedad y los tratamientos. Variables independientes: indicadores sociodemográficos (sexo, nivel de estudios, edad) y variables clínicas (definición de caso, localización de la enfermedad).ResultadosUn alto porcentaje tiene conocimientos correctos sobre la enfermedad (77,3%), la transmisión (94,7%) y los tratamientos (77,3%). La localización extrapulmonar se asoció con un nivel de conocimiento inferior de aspectos generales de la tuberculosis (OR=0,21; IC del 95%, 0,05–0,85) y de la transmisión (OR=0,05; IC del 95%, 0–0,66). Un alto porcentaje de población identifica vías erróneas de transmisión como la sangre (42,3%), los fluidos sexuales (50%) o los utensilios utilizados para comer (81,3%).ConclusionesTras el alta hospitalaria, un alto porcentaje tiene conocimientos correctos sobre la enfermedad, si bien hay una alta prevalencia de creencias erróneas sobre la transmisión. Estas creencias deben ser tenidas en cuenta en la información que se da a los pacientes, ya que pueden estar incrementando la estigmatización y la vulnerabilidad del paciente(AU)

ObjectiveTo identify the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions held by the Latin-American population on tuberculosis, after being discharged from hospital in the Community of Madrid.DesignCross-sectional study.SettingCommunity of Madrid.ParticipantsNon-institutionalised Latin-American population over 15 years old, diagnosed with tuberculosis during the year 2003 (1st January-31st December).MeasurementsA descriptive study and an analytical study were performed. The measure of association used was the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI), which were calculated by unconditional logistic regressions, using univariate and multivariate models. The dependent variables: to have correct knowledge of the disease and its treatments. Independent variables: sociodemographic indicators (sex, education level, age) and clinical variables (case definition, location of the disease).ResultsA high percentage had correct knowledge of the disease (77.3%), its transmission (94.7%) and treatment (77.3%). An extra-pulmonary location was associated with a lower level of knowledge of the general characteristics of tuberculosis [OR (95% CI), 0.21 (0.05–0.85)] and its transmission [OR (95% CI) 0.05 (0–0.66)]. A high percentage of the population identified erroneous transmission routes, such as blood (42.3%); sexual fluids (50%), or utensils used for eating (81.3%).ConclusionsAfter hospital discharge, a high percentage has correct knowledge about the disease, although there is a high prevalence of erroneous beliefs on its transmission. These beliefs must be taken into account in the information given to patients, since it could increase the stigmatisation and vulnerability of the patient(AU)

[Knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of the Latin-American immigrant population of tuberculosis in the Community of Madrid]. / Conocimientos, actitudes y percepciones de la población inmigrante latinoamericana enferma de tuberculosis en la Comunidad de Madrid.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions held by the Latin-American population on tuberculosis, after being discharged from hospital in the Community of Madrid. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. SETTING: Community of Madrid. PARTICIPANTS: Non-institutionalised Latin-American population over 15 years old, diagnosed with tuberculosis during the year 2003 (1st January-31st December). MEASUREMENTS: A descriptive study and an analytical study were performed. The measure of association used was the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI), which were calculated by unconditional logistic regressions, using univariate and multivariate models. The dependent variables: to have correct knowledge of the disease and its treatments. INDEPENDENT VARIABLES: sociodemographic indicators (sex, education level, age) and clinical variables (case definition, location of the disease). RESULTS: A high percentage had correct knowledge of the disease (77.3%), its transmission (94.7%) and treatment (77.3%). An extra-pulmonary location was associated with a lower level of knowledge of the general characteristics of tuberculosis [OR (95% CI), 0.21 (0.05-0.85)] and its transmission [OR (95% CI) 0.05 (0-0.66)]. A high percentage of the population identified erroneous transmission routes, such as blood (42.3%); sexual fluids (50%), or utensils used for eating (81.3%). CONCLUSIONS: After hospital discharge, a high percentage has correct knowledge about the disease, although there is a high prevalence of erroneous beliefs on its transmission. These beliefs must be taken into account in the information given to patients, since it could increase the stigmatisation and vulnerability of the patient.

[Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains from immigrants in the community of Madrid: current assessment]. / Situación actual de las resistencias de Mycobacterium tuberculosis en la población inmigrante de la Comunidad de Madrid.

OBJECTIVE: Immigration to Spain from countries with high rates of tuberculosis infection is increasing. The aim of this study was to describe and analyze resistance to antituberculosis drugs in strains isolated from foreign-born patients in the Community of Madrid. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A cohort of immigrants was identified at 14 hospitals in the Community of Madrid. To assess the sensitivity of isolated strains, we used the MGIT 960 system and/or the proportion method of Canetti. Clinical and sociodemographic information was recorded for each patient. We compiled descriptive statistics and performed univariate analysis, followed by multiple logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: From a total of 312 cases, 268 strains were isolated. Sensitivity was tested in 221 strains. The proportion of immigrants with no health care coverage was 19.9%. Thirty-one strains (14.0%) were resistant; 24 (12.6%) were in newly diagnosed cases and 6 (27.3%) were in patients who had been treated previously. Ten strains (4.5%) were multidrug resistant. Resistance to isoniazid was detected in 18 strains (9.5%). Multidrug resistance was associated with a history of prior antituberculosis treatment (odds ratio, 5.94; 95% confidence interval, 1.46-24.18). CONCLUSIONS: Barriers to health care faced by immigrants with tuberculosis should be removed. Treatment should begin with 4 drugs while the results of sensitivity tests are pending. A history of prior antituberculosis treatment should raise a suspicion of multidrug resistance.

Situación actual de las resistencias de Mycobacterium tuberculosis en la población inmigrante de la Comunidad de Madrid / Resistant mycobacterium tuberculosis strains from immigrants in the Community of Madrid: current assessment

Objetivo: Actualmente en España se está produciendo un incremento de la población de inmigrantes que proceden de países con altas tasas de incidencia de enfermedad tuberculosa. El objetivo de este trabajo ha sido describir y analizar las resistencias a fármacos antituberculosos entre la población inmigrante de la Comunidad de Madrid. Pacientes y métodos: La cohorte de inmigrantes fue identificada a través de 14 hospitales de la Comunidad de Madrid. Para evaluar la susceptibilidad de las cepas aisladas se utilizó el sistema MGIT 960 y/o el método de las proporciones de Canetti. De cada paciente se recogió información clínica y sociodemográfica. En primer lugar se realizó un estudio descriptivo y, posteriormente, un análisis univariante y multivariante por medio de regresiones logísticas. Resultados: Se identificaron 312 casos, en los que se aislaron 268 cepas. Se obtuvo información de sensibilidad de 221 cepas. El 19,9% de la muestra no tenía cobertura sanitaria. Fueron resistentes 31 cepas (14,0%), de las que 24 (12,6%) correspondían a casos nuevos y 6 (27,3%) a casos previamente tratados. Diez cepas (4,5%) fueron multirresistentes. La resistencia a isoniacida en casos nuevos fue del 9,5% (18 cepas). La multirresistencia se asoció a historia previa de tratamiento antituberculoso (odds ratio = 5,94; intervalo de confianza del 95%, 1,46-24,18). Conclusiones: Es necesario eliminar los problemas de acceso al sistema sanitario entre los inmigrantes afectados de tuberculosis. Las pautas de tratamiento deberían comenzar con 4 fármacos hasta conocer los resultados de sensibilidad. La historia previa de tratamiento antituberculoso debe incrementar la sospecha de multirresistencia

Objective: Immigration to Spain from countries with high rates of tuberculosis infection is increasing. The aim of this study was to describe and analyze resistance to antituberculosis drugs in strains isolated from foreign-born patients in the Community of Madrid. Patients and methods: A cohort of immigrants was identified at 14 hospitals in the Community of Madrid. To assess the sensitivity of isolated strains, we used the MGIT 960 system and/or the proportion method of Canetti. Clinical and sociodemographic information was recorded for each patient. We compiled descriptive statistics and performed univariate analysis, followed by multiple logistic regression analysis. Results: From a total of 312 cases, 268 strains were isolated. Sensitivity was tested in 221 strains. The proportion of immigrants with no health care coverage was 19.9%. Thirty-one strains (14.0%) were resistant; 24 (12.6%) were in newly diagnosed cases and 6 (27.3%) were in patients who had been treated previously. Ten strains (4.5%) were multidrug resistant. Resistance to isoniazid was detected in 18 strains (9.5%). Multidrug resistance was associated with a history of prior antituberculosis treatment (odds ratio, 5.94; 95% confidence interval, 1.46-24.18). Conclusions: Barriers to health care faced by immigrants with tuberculosis should be removed. Treatment should begin with 4 drugs while the results of sensitivity tests are pending. A history of prior antituberculosis treatment should raise a suspicion of multidrug resistance

[Sociodemographic characteristics of the immigrant population with a diagnosis of tuberculosis in the autonomous community of Madrid (Spain)]. / Características sociodemográficas de la población inmigrante diagnosticada de tuberculosis en la Comunidad de Madrid.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the social and demographic characteristics of immigrant patients diagnosed of tuberculosis in the Community of Madrid. PARTICIPANTS AND METHOD: Descriptive study. The information was gathered from the patients diagnosed in 15 hospitals of the Community of Madrid, and 3 primary health Red Cross facilities. Criteria for inclusion: to be tuberculosis diagnosed during the year 2003, to be economic immigrant, to be older than 15 year-old, and not to be in prison. RESULTS: 312 persons were identified. 296 were included in the study. Main nationalities: Ecuador (27.4%) and Morocco (19.3%). The 18.9% of the population does not have health insurance. The time between the arrival to Spain and the illness was 29.5 months. The 66.9% of the cases lived with some relatives. The 63.2% of the active population worked in the informal economy. The main risk factors was to be risk drinker. CONCLUSIONS: To know the social and sanitary situation of immigrant patients diagnosed of tuberculosis is base to adapt the control programs to a new epidemiologist and social situation.

Características sociodemográficas de la población inmigrante diagnosticada de tuberculosis en la Comunidad de Madrid / Sociodemographic characteristics of the immigrant population with a diagnosis of tuberculosis in the autonomous community of Madrid [Spain]

Objetivo: Describir las características sociodemográficas de la población inmigrante enferma de tuberculosis en la Comunidad de Madrid. Pacientes y método: Estudio descriptivo. Captación de casos: 15 hospitales de la Comunidad de Madrid y 3 consultas de atención primaria de la Cruz Roja. Se incluyeron a los inmigrantes económicos, mayores de 15 años, no internos en prisión y diagnosticados de tuberculosis durante el año 2003. Resultados: Se identificaron 312 personas, 296 formaron parte del estudio. Las principales nacionalidades fueron Ecuador (27,4%) y Marruecos (19,3%). Un 18,9% de la población no tenía cobertura sanitaria. El tiempo medio transcurrido desde la entrada en España y la enfermedad fue de 29,5 meses. El 66,9% vivía con algún familiar. El 63,2% de la población que estaba laboralmente activa realizaba trabajos informales. El principal factor de riesgo fue ser bebedor de riesgo. Conclusiones: Es necesario conocer la situación sociosanitaria de la población inmigrante enferma de tuberculosis para poder adaptar los programas de control a una nueva situación epidemiológica y social

Objetive: To describe the social and demographic characteristics of immigrant patients diagnosed of tuberculosis in the Community of Madrid. Participants and method: Descriptive study. The information was gathered from the patients diagnosed in 15 hospitals of the Community of Madrid, and 3 primary health Red Cross facilities. Criteria for inclusion: to be tuberculosis diagnosed during the year 2003, to be economic immigrant, to be older than 15 year-old, and not to be in prison. Results: 312 persons were identified. 296 were included in the study. Main nationalities: Ecuador (27.4%) and Morocco (19.3%). The 18.9% of the population does not have health insurance. The time between the arrival to Spain and the illness was 29.5 months. The 66.9% of the cases lived with some relatives. The 63.2% of the active population worked in the informal economy. The main risk factors was to be risk drinker. Conclusions: To know the social and sanitary situation of immigrant patients diagnosed of tuberculosis is base to adapt the control programs to a new epidemiologist and social situation