Missed opportunities for HIV diagnosis among incarcerated people in the Federal District, Brasilia, Brazil

Objective. Evaluate the pattern of contact with the healthcare system, including prison health facilities, and HIV testing. Method. This was a quantitative case-control study of HIV infected and uninfected incarcerated people serving time in 2019 in the Federal District, matched by age. Results. There was no difference in the pattern of contact with the healthcare system or the pattern of testing between HIV-infected and uninfected incarcerated people. Most of the infected patients were diagnosed in the prison environment and had early infections, demonstrating the effectiveness of screening in this scenario. Conclusion: The pattern of contact with the healthcare system among the individuals in this study probably reflects that of young men in general, i.e., less contact with primary care outpatient services and trauma as the main reason for contact in emergency departments. 

Objetivo. Evaluar el patrón de contacto con el sistema sanitario, incluidos los centros sanitarios penitenciarios, y las pruebas del VIH. Método. Estudio cuantitativo de casos y controles de personas infectadas y no infectadas por el VIH que cumplían condena en 2019 en el Distrito Federal, emparejadas por edad. Resultados. No hubo diferencias en el patrón de contacto con el sistema de salud ni en el patrón de realización de pruebas entre personas encarceladas infectadas y no infectadas por VIH. La mayoría de los pacientes infectados fueron diagnosticados en el medio penitenciario y presentaron infecciones precoces, lo que demuestra la eficacia del cribado en este escenario. Conclusiones. El patrón de contacto con el sistema sanitario entre los individuos de este estudio probablemente refleja el de los hombres jóvenes en general, es decir, menor contacto con los servicios ambulatorios de atención primaria y traumatismos como principal motivo de contacto en los servicios de urgencias. 

Objetivo. O estudo avaliou o padrão de contato com o sistema de saúde e de testagem para HIV, incluindo as unidades de saúde prisionais.  Métodos. Trata-se de estudo quantitativo de caso-controle em detentos que cumpriam pena em 2019 no Distrito Federal, pareados por idade. Resultados. Não houve diferença no padrão de contato com o sistema de saúde e padrão de oferta de testagem entre detentos infectados ou não com HIV. A maior parte dos infectados teve o diagnóstico realizado no ambiente prisional e de maneira precoce, evidenciando efetividade do rastreamento nesse cenário. Conclusão. O padrão de contato com o sistema de saúde dos indivíduos neste estudo reflete provavelmente o de homens jovens como um todo: pouco contato com serviços ambulatoriais de atenção primária e trauma como principal motivo de contato, em prontos-socorros.  

La visión de los profesionales sanitarios del proceso diagnóstico de las mujeres con cáncer de ovario en Catalunya: estudio cualitativo / Health professionals’ perspective about women's experiences during the diagnostic process of ovarian cancer in Catalonia: Qualitative study

Objetivo: Identificar las oportunidades perdidas en el diagnóstico del cáncer de ovario (CO) en el sistema sanitario público de Catalunya mediante el análisis de la visión de los profesionales sobre el relato de las experiencias de las pacientes con CO. Diseño: Estudio cualitativo exploratorio-descriptivo, con dos grupos focales. Emplazamiento: Atención primaria, noviembre de 2017. Participantes: Treinta y cuatro profesionales en base a un muestreo teórico: 21médicos de familia, 8profesionales de centros de salud sexual y reproductiva y 5ginecólogos de hospital. Métodos: Los participantes debatieron sobre diferentes itinerarios de procesos diagnósticos de mujeres con CO mediante la exposición de tres flujogramas elaborados a partir de los relatos obtenidos en entrevistas a pacientes. Se realizó un análisis de contenido temático. Resultados: Se identificaron tres temas con diversos subtemas: a)falta de sospecha diagnóstica (desconocimiento de los síntomas, obviar la anamnesis y la exploración física, fragmentación de la atención y sesgos y prejuicios); b)dificultades para activar el proceso diagnóstico (acceso limitado a pruebas, accesibilidad desigual a ginecología y falta de seguimiento), y c)ausencia de circuitos rápidos preestablecidos. Conclusiones: Los resultados ofrecen una visión de las dificultades del diagnóstico precoz del CO en nuestro ámbito. Creemos que su identificación permitirá la elaboración de estrategias para mejorar la precisión diagnóstica y la calidad de la atención en las mujeres con CO en nuestro medio.(AU)

Objective: To identify missed opportunities in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer (OC) in the public health system of Catalonia, through the analysis of the perceptions of health professionals on the stories's experiences of OC patients. Design: Qualitative exploratory-descriptive study, with two focus groups. Setting: Primary Care, November 2017. Participants: Thirty-four professionals based on theoretical sampling: 21 family doctors, 8 professionals from sexual and reproductive health centres and 5 hospital gynaecologists. Methods: Participants discussed the different diagnostic pathways for women with OC through the presentation of flowcharts which were developed with three storie's and experiences of OC patients. Results: Three themes with various sub-themes were identified as follow: a)lack of cancer diagnostic suspicion (lack of knowledge of symptoms of OC, anamnesis and physical examination overlooked, fragmentation of patient's care and bias and prejudice); b)difficulties in activating the diagnostic process (limited access to tests, unequal accessibility to gynaecology and lack of follow-up); and c)absence of fast-track referral system.Conclusions: The results offer insight into the difficulties of early diagnosis of OC in our setting. We believe that their identification will allow the development of strategies to improve diagnostic accuracy and quality of care for women with OC in our setting.(AU)

[Health professionals' perspective about women's experiences during the diagnostic process of ovarian cancer in Catalonia: Qualitative study]. / La visión de los profesionales sanitarios del proceso diagnóstico de las mujeres con cáncer de ovario en Catalunya: estudio cualitativo.

OBJECTIVE: To identify missed opportunities in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer (OC) in the public health system of Catalonia, through the analysis of the perceptions of health professionals on the stories's experiences of OC patients. DESIGN: Qualitative exploratory-descriptive study, with two focus groups. SETTING: Primary Care, November 2017. PARTICIPANTS: Thirty-four professionals based on theoretical sampling: 21 family doctors, 8 professionals from sexual and reproductive health centres and 5 hospital gynaecologists. METHODS: Participants discussed the different diagnostic pathways for women with OC through the presentation of flowcharts which were developed with three storie's and experiences of OC patients. RESULTS: Three themes with various sub-themes were identified as follow: a)lack of cancer diagnostic suspicion (lack of knowledge of symptoms of OC, anamnesis and physical examination overlooked, fragmentation of patient's care and bias and prejudice); b)difficulties in activating the diagnostic process (limited access to tests, unequal accessibility to gynaecology and lack of follow-up); and c)absence of fast-track referral system. CONCLUSIONS: The results offer insight into the difficulties of early diagnosis of OC in our setting. We believe that their identification will allow the development of strategies to improve diagnostic accuracy and quality of care for women with OC in our setting.

Identificando objetivos fast-track: oportunidades perdidas en el diagnóstico de VIH en la Comunidad de Madrid / Targeting fast-track goals: Missed opportunities for HIV testing in the Community of Madrid

IntroducciónLa oferta dirigida de la prueba de VIH está recomendada en personas con prácticas de riesgo y en enfermedades indicadoras de VIH. Las oportunidades diagnósticas perdidas (OP) son aquellas donde no se cumplen estas recomendaciones.ObjetivoConocer el porcentaje de OP según práctica de riesgo (OP dirigidas) y condiciones indicadoras (OP indicadas) en la Comunidad de Madrid.MétodosSe seleccionaron 109 personas con nuevo diagnóstico de VIH en 7 centros sanitarios (abril 2018-marzo 2019) mediante encuestas telefónicas. Se definió oportunidad diagnóstica como cualquier contacto con el sistema sanitario en el que debería haberse realizado la prueba de VIH. Se calculó la ocurrencia de OP en los 2 años anteriores al diagnóstico de VIH.ResultadosDe 32 oportunidades diagnósticas dirigidas e indicadas, un 96,9 y un 57,8%, respectivamente, derivaron en OP. Globalmente, el 83,8% de las oportunidades diagnósticas resultaron en OP.ConclusiónLas OP son una importante área de mejora en el diagnóstico precoz de VIH.

IntroductionIn Spain HIV testing is recommended to people with risk behaviors for HIV and with indicator conditions related to HIV infection. Missed diagnostic opportunities (MO) are defining as situations where these recommendations are not followed.ObjectiveTo characterize MO due to risk behaviors (directed) and due to indicator conditions (indicated) among people diagnosed with HIV in the Region of Madrid.MethodsA total of 109 participants newly diagnosed with HIV were recruited from 7 health centers (April 2018-March 2019) by a telephone survey. Diagnostic opportunities were defined as any contact with the healthcare system in which an HIV test should have been carried out. Frequency of MO was calculated within the previous 2 years from HIV diagnosis.ResultsOf the 32 directed and indicated diagnostic opportunities, 96.9 and 57.8% respectively resulted in MO. Overall, 83.8% of diagnostic opportunities resulted in MO.ConclusionMO, both directed and indicated, are an important area for improvement to reduce late diagnosis.

Targeting fast-track goals: Missed opportunities for HIV testing in the Community of Madrid.

INTRODUCTION: In Spain HIV testing is recommended to people with risk behaviors for HIV and with indicator conditions (IC) related to HIV infection. Missed diagnostic opportunities (MO) are defining as situations where these recommendations are not followed. OBJECTIVE: To characterize MO due to risk behaviors (directed) and due to IC (indicated) among people diagnosed with HIV in the Region of Madrid. METHODS: A total of 109 participants newly diagnosed with HIV were recruited from 7 health centers (April 2018-March 2019) by a telephone survey. Diagnostic opportunities were defined as any contact with the healthcare system in which an HIV test should have been carried out. Frequency of MO was calculated within the previous 2 years from HIV diagnosis. RESULTS: Of the 32 directed and indicated diagnostic opportunities, 96.9% and 57.8% respectively resulted in MO. Overall, 83.8% of diagnostic opportunities resulted in MO. CONCLUSION: MO, both directed and indicated, are an important area for improvement to reduce late diagnosis.

Targeting fast-track goals: Missed opportunities for HIV testing in the Community of Madrid. / Identificando objetivos fast-track: oportunidades perdidas en el diagnóstico de VIH en la Comunidad de Madrid.

INTRODUCTION: In Spain HIV testing is recommended to people with risk behaviors for HIV and with indicator conditions related to HIV infection. Missed diagnostic opportunities (MO) are defining as situations where these recommendations are not followed. OBJECTIVE: To characterize MO due to risk behaviors (directed) and due to indicator conditions (indicated) among people diagnosed with HIV in the Region of Madrid. METHODS: A total of 109 participants newly diagnosed with HIV were recruited from 7 health centers (April 2018-March 2019) by a telephone survey. Diagnostic opportunities were defined as any contact with the healthcare system in which an HIV test should have been carried out. Frequency of MO was calculated within the previous 2 years from HIV diagnosis. RESULTS: Of the 32 directed and indicated diagnostic opportunities, 96.9 and 57.8% respectively resulted in MO. Overall, 83.8% of diagnostic opportunities resulted in MO. CONCLUSION: MO, both directed and indicated, are an important area for improvement to reduce late diagnosis.

Pesquisa sobre vacunación y oportunidades de prevención y educación para la salud: Experiencia en una residencia pediátrica mediante el Mini-Clinical Evaluation Exercise / Vaccination status inquiry and hierarchy of prevention and health education opportunities: Experience in a Pediatric Residency using the Mini-Clinical Evaluation Exercise

Introducción. El Mini-Clinical Evaluation Exercise (Mini-CEX) es una herramienta formativa. Dentro de sus ítems, evalúa la pesquisa del estado de vacunación y la jerarquización de oportunidades de prevención. Objetivos. Determinar porcentaje de pesquisa de dichos ítems en controles de salud y demanda. Comparar desempeño entre primer y tercer año. Materiales y métodos. Análisis retrospectivo de las planillas del Mini-CEX de residentes. Resultados. Se evaluaron 119 residentes. La prevalencia de pesquisa de vacunación en controles fue 94,9% (intervalo de confianza -IC-: 91,09-98,91); en demanda, 73,1% (IC: 65,2-81; OR 5,33; IC: 2,23-12,75; p= 0,00004). La prevalencia de aprovechamiento de oportunidades en controles fue 69,8% (IC: 61,6-78); en demanda, 62,2% (IC: 53,5-70,9; OR 1,034; IC: 0,46382,306; p= 0,4673). En 32 residentes se comparó su desempeño entre primer y tercer año en demandas, sin diferencia significativa. Conclusiones. Se detectó alta prevalencia de pesquisa de vacunación y menor prevalencia de aprovechamiento de oportunidades en controles, con menor pesquisa de ambos ítems en demandas.

Introduction. The Mini-Clinical Evaluation Exercise (Mini-CEX) is a formative tool with two descriptors assessing the inquiry of vaccination status and the hierarchy of prevention opportunities. Objectives. Determine the prevalence of both items in pediatric controls and spontaneous demands. Compare the performance between first and third year of their training. Material and methods. Retrospective analysis based on trainees Mini-CEX charts. Results. There were 119 residents evaluated during their first year. The prevalence of vaccination status screening in controls was 94.9% (confidence interval -CI-: 91.09-98.91); in demands 73.1% (CI: 65.2-81; OR 5.33; CI: 2.2312.75; p 0.00004). The prevalence of prevention opportunities in controls was 69.8% (CI: 61.678); in demands 62.2% (CI: 53.5-70.9; OR 1.034; CI: 0.4638-2.306; p= 0.4673). There were 32 trainees compared between their first and third year performance in demands, without significant difference. Conclusions. We found high prevalence of vaccination inquiry and lower prevalence of hierarchization of prevention opportunities in controls, with less inquiry in demands.

[Early diagnosis of HIV in Primary Care in Spain. Results of a pilot study based on targeted screening based on indicator conditions, behavioral criteria and region of origin]. / Diagnóstico precoz del VIH en atención primaria en España. Resultados de una prueba piloto de cribado dirigido basado en condiciones indicadoras, criterios conductuales y de origen.

OBJECTIVES: To estimate the prevalence of HIV infection in patients diagnosed with an indicator condition (IC) for HIV and/or risk behavior for their acquisition and/or coming from high prevalence countries. To determine the acceptability and feasibility of offering HIV testing based on IC and behavioral and origin criteria in Primary Care (PC). DESIGN: Cross-sectional study in a convenience sample. LOCATION: Six PC centers in Spain. PARTICIPANTS: The inclusion criteria were: patients between 16 and 65years old who presented at least one of the proposed ICs and/or at least one of the proposed behavioral and/or origin criteria. A total of 388 patients participated. INTERVENTION: HIV serology was offered to all patients who met the inclusion criteria. MAIN MEASUREMENTS: Description of IC frequency, behavioral and origin criteria. Prevalence of HIV infection. Level of acceptability and feasibility of the HIV screening based on IC and behavioral and origin criteria. RESULTS: A total of 174 patients had an IC (44.84%). The most common behavioral criterion was: having unprotected sex at some time in life with people who did not know their HIV status (298; 76.8%). Four HIV+ patients (1.03%) were diagnosed. All had an IC and were men who had sex with men. The level of acceptability in PC was high. CONCLUSIONS: Offering HIV testing to patients with IC and behavioral criteria is feasible and effective in PC.

Conocimiento de los médicos especialistas o en formación acerca de vacunas no sistemáticas en Uruguay / Knowledge of medical specialists or medical specialist trainees about vaccinations not included in the official Certificate of Vaccination of Uruguay

Introducción: la carga de enfermedades inmunoprevenibles en adultos es elevada. La vacunación es una estrategia eficaz para prevenir estas enfermedades. Sin embargo la cobertura vacunal es baja. Varios trabajos evidencian como barrera contra la vacunación la falta de conocimiento de las indicaciones y contraindicaciones y la falta de recomendación de las vacunas por parte del médico. Objetivo: conocer cuánto saben los médicos especialistas o en formación acerca de las vacunas no sistemáticas (VNS, son las que no están en el carné de vacunación) en adultos y su accionar sobre la recomendación de las mismas. Material y método: estudio descriptivo de corte transversal tipo encuesta autoadministrada realizada a los médicos especialistas del Hospital de Clínicas, en el período setiembre-noviembre de 2014. Muestreo por conveniencia, no probabilística. Resultados: se entrevistaron 127 médicos de 12 especialidades. Nombraron tres VNS en forma adecuada 102 (80%); 116 (91%) refieren recomendarlas, y 84 (66%) generar un espacio para hablar de vacunas. Los que no lo generan aducen en el 49% olvido y en el 38% falta de tiempo. Responden en forma buena o adecuada las indicaciones de vacunación el 45%. Responden en forma adecuada las contraindicaciones el 35%. El error más frecuente fue contraindicar vacunas inactivadas a personas con inmunodepresión o enfermedad aguda no grave. Se encontró que los especialistas recomiendan VNS a la población específica que asisten en el 35% de los casos. Conclusiones: se encontró que los especialistas encuestados tenían un conocimiento pobre de las indicaciones y contraindicaciones de las VNS, dado que menos del 50% conocía las indicaciones y únicamente el 35% las contraindicaciones. Solo el 35% conocía las indicaciones específicas de las VNS de su especialidad. El error más frecuentemente cometido fueron las falsas contraindicaciones que llevan a oportunidades perdidas de vacunación. Estos hallazgos sugieren la necesidad de mejorar la formación de los médicos/especialistas para lograr mejores coberturas vacunales.

Introduction: the burden of vaccine preventable diseases in adults is high. Immunization is an effective strategy to prevent these diseases. However, immunization coverage is low. Several studies evidence that ignorance of indications and contraindications for vaccinations, and failure of a recommendation for immunization by physicians constitute the main barriers. Objective: to learn about medical specialists' or medical specialists trainees' knowledge on "non-systematic" vaccinations (NSV, these are the vaccinations that are not included in the Certificate of vaccination) in adults and their behavior in connection with their recommendation. Method: descriptive, transversal study by means of a self-administered survey to medical specialists at the Clínica Hospital, between September and November, 2014. Convenience sampling, non-probability. Results: 127 physicians were interviewed, 12 specializations were covered. When asked to name NSV, 102 (80%) replied adequately, 116 (91%) state they recommend them and 84 (66%) declare they create a space to discuss vaccinations. Those who fail to do so argue they forget (49%) and they lack the time (38%). 45% of physicians provide adequate or appropriate information in regards to vaccination indications. 35% of physicians provide adequate or appropriate information in regards to vaccination contraindications. The most frequent mistake was to state inactive vaccines were contraindicated for immunocompromised patients or patients suffering from non-severe acute diseases. Specialists recommend NSV to the specific population they see in 35% of cases. Conclusions: the specialists surveyed evidenced poor knowledge about indications and contraindications of NSV, since less than 50% of them were aware of indication and only 35% of them were aware of the contraindications. Only 35% of physicians were familiar with NSV specific indications in their area of specialization. False contraindications were the most frequent mistake, leading to lost opportunities for immunization. These findings point out the need to improve the training of physicians'/specialists' to achieve better immunization coverage.

Introdução: a carga de doenças imunopreveníveis em adultos é elevada. A vacinação é uma estratégia eficaz para prevenir essas doenças. No entanto a cobertura vacinal é baixa. Vários trabalhos mostram que a falta de conhecimento sobre as indicações e contraindicações e a falta de recomendação por parte do médico são barreiras contra a vacinação. Objetivo: avaliar o conhecimento dos médicos especialistas ou em formação sobre vacinas não sistemáticas (VNS ­ vacinas que não estão na caderneta de saúde) em adultos e suas ações relacionadas a recomendação das mesmas. Material e método: estudo descritivo transversal tipo entrevista auto administrada realizada a médicos especialistas do Hospital de Clínicas, no período setembro-novembro de 2014. Amostragem por conveniência, não probabilística. Resultados: 127 médicos de 12 especialidades diferentes foram entrevistados. 102 (80%) responderam de forma adequada sobre três VNS; 116 (91%) responderam que as recomendavam e 84 (66%) que criavam momentos para falar sobre as vacinas. Entre os que não criavam esse momento, 49% respondeu que era por esquecimento e 38% por falta de tempo. 45% respondeu de maneira correta ou adequada sobre as indicações de vacinação; 35% respondeu adequadamente sobre as contraindicações. O erro mais frequente foi contraindicar vacinas inativadas a pessoas com imunodepressão ou doença aguda não grave. Observou-se que os especialistas recomendam VNS a população específica que atendem em 35% dos casos. Conclusoes: os resultados mostraram que os especialistas entrevistados tinham pouco conhecimento sobre as indicações e contraindicações das VNS, pois menos de 50% conhecia as indicações e somente 35% as contraindicações. Somente 35% conhecia as indicações específicas das VNS da sua especialidade. O erro mais frequente estava relacionado com as falsas contraindicações que geravam oportunidades perdidas de vacinação. Estes achados sugerem que é necessário melhorar a formação dos médicos/especialistas para melhorar a cobertura vacinal.

Household experience and costs of seeking measles vaccination in rural Guinea-Bissau.

OBJECTIVES: Children younger than 12 months of age are eligible for childhood vaccines through the public health system in Guinea-Bissau. To limit open vial wastage, a restrictive vial opening policy has been implemented; 10-dose measles vaccine vials are only opened if six or more children aged 9-11 months are present at the vaccination post. Consequently, mothers who bring their child for measles vaccination can be told to return another day. We aimed to describe the household experience and estimate household costs of seeking measles vaccination in rural Guinea-Bissau. METHODS: Within a national sample of village clusters under demographic surveillance, we interviewed mothers of children aged 9-21 months about their experience with seeking measles vaccination. From information about time and money spent, we calculated household costs of seeking measles vaccination. RESULTS: We interviewed mothers of 1308 children of whom 1043 (80%) had sought measles vaccination at least once. Measles vaccination coverage was 70% (910/1308). Coverage decreased with increasing distance to the health centre. On average, mothers who had taken their child for vaccination took their child 1.4 times. Mean costs of achieving 70% coverage were 2.04 USD (SD 3.86) per child taken for vaccination. Half of the mothers spent more than 2 h seeking vaccination and 11% spent money on transportation. CONCLUSIONS: We found several indications of missed opportunities for measles vaccination resulting in suboptimal coverage. The household costs comprised 3.3% of the average monthly income and should be taken into account when assessing the costs of delivering vaccinations.

Esquemas atrasados y oportunidades perdidas de vacunación en niños de hasta 2 años atendidos en centros de salud / Delayed schedules and missed opportunities for vaccination in children up to 2 years old

En Argentina las coberturas de vacunación son subóptimas, y se registra un aumento de algunas enfermedades inmunoprevenibles (EIP). Es necesario conocer la prevalencia de oportunidades perdidas de vacunación (OPV) y esquemas atrasados de vacunación (EAV) para mejorar la cobertura, disminuir la morbimortalidad y lograr una mayor equidad en salud. OBJETIVOS:1) Determinar la proporción de EAV y OPV, y analizar los factores de riesgo conexos en niños ≤2 años atendidos en centros de salud de Argentina;y 2) evaluar la percepción de gravedad, la importancia que los padres adjudican a la vacunación y las fuentes de información. METODOS: Estudio observacional, analítico y transversal en niños ≤2 años. Se calculó mediana, media y proporciones, con IC 95%. Se utilizó test de la t de Student y test de chi cuadrado. Se evaluó asociación (OR)mediante regresión logística. RESULTADOS: De los 2.344 niños estudiados,el 29,2% (IC 95%: 27,4-31,1) presentó EAV. Las vacunas con más atraso fueron la triple viral contra sarampión, rubéola y paperas y la de hepatitis A, y los grupos más afectados fueron los de 12 y 18 meses. Las enfermedades más conocidas fueron sarampión, rubéola y paperas. Más del 95% de los padres consideraron que las vacunas eran importantes. Las variables asociadas a EAV fueron: más edad, menor nivel socioeconómico, atención hospitalaria y haber recibido información sobre vacunas. Los factores asociados a OPV fueron: motivo de consulta, lugar de atención y EAV. CONCLUSIONES: Es necesario desarrollar estrategias orientadas a aprovechar las oportunidades de vacunación, formar al personal de salud, concientizar a la población y difundir mejor los mensajes (AU)

In Argentina, vaccination coverageis suboptimal. This is reflected in the increased incidence of certain vaccine preventable diseases. It is necessary to identify the population percentage with incomplete schemes and detect the causes of missed opportunities of vaccination (MOV) to improve vaccination coverage, reduce morbidity/mortality and achieve greater equity in health. OBJECTIVES: 1) To determine the proportion of delayed schedules (DS) and MOV in children ≤ 2 years old assisted in health-care centers of Argentina, analyzing the risk factors; and 2) to assess perceived severity, importance assigned by parents to vaccination and sources of information. METHODS:Observational, analytic, cross-sectional study in children ≤ 2 year sold. Median or mean values and proportions with 95% CI were calculated, using t-test and chi-square test. Logistic regression was used to evaluate association. RESULTS: 2344 children were surveyed. 29.2% (95% CI: 27.4-31.1) presented DS. Measles, mumps, rubella(MMR) and hepatitis A were the most delayed vaccines, while 12 and 18 months were the age groups with more delay. The best known diseases were measles, rubella and mumps. Over 95% of parents considered that vaccines were important. Predictors of DS were older age, lower socioeconomic status, hospital care and previous information about immunizations. Predictors of MOV were consultation reason, health care site and previous DS. CONCLUSIONS: Strategies should be directed to seize the opportunities of vaccination, train health personnel, educate the population and improve the diffusion of messages (AU)

Esquemas atrasados y oportunidades perdidas de vacunación en niños de hasta 2 años atendidos en centros de salud / Delayed schedules and missed opportunities for vaccination in children up to 2 years old

En Argentina las coberturas de vacunación son subóptimas, y se registra un aumento de algunas enfermedades inmunoprevenibles (EIP). Es necesario conocer la prevalencia de oportunidades perdidas de vacunación (OPV) y esquemas atrasados de vacunación (EAV) para mejorar la cobertura, disminuir la morbimortalidad y lograr una mayor equidad en salud. OBJETIVOS:1) Determinar la proporción de EAV y OPV, y analizar los factores de riesgo conexos en niños ≤2 años atendidos en centros de salud de Argentina;y 2) evaluar la percepción de gravedad, la importancia que los padres adjudican a la vacunación y las fuentes de información. MÉTODOS: Estudio observacional, analítico y transversal en niños ≤2 años. Se calculó mediana, media y proporciones, con IC 95%. Se utilizó test de la t de Student y test de chi cuadrado. Se evaluó asociación (OR)mediante regresión logística. RESULTADOS: De los 2.344 niños estudiados,el 29,2% (IC 95%: 27,4-31,1) presentó EAV. Las vacunas con más atraso fueron la triple viral contra sarampión, rubéola y paperas y la de hepatitis A, y los grupos más afectados fueron los de 12 y 18 meses. Las enfermedades más conocidas fueron sarampión, rubéola y paperas. Más del 95% de los padres consideraron que las vacunas eran importantes. Las variables asociadas a EAV fueron: más edad, menor nivel socioeconómico, atención hospitalaria y haber recibido información sobre vacunas. Los factores asociados a OPV fueron: motivo de consulta, lugar de atención y EAV. CONCLUSIONES: Es necesario desarrollar estrategias orientadas a aprovechar las oportunidades de vacunación, formar al personal de salud, concientizar a la población y difundir mejor los mensajes

In Argentina, vaccination coverageis suboptimal. This is reflected in the increased incidence of certain vaccine preventable diseases. It is necessary to identify the population percentage with incomplete schemes and detect the causes of missed opportunities of vaccination (MOV) to improve vaccination coverage, reduce morbidity/mortality and achieve greater equity in health. OBJECTIVES: 1) To determine the proportion of delayed schedules (DS) and MOV in children ≤ 2 years old assisted in health-care centers of Argentina, analyzing the risk factors; and 2) to assess perceived severity, importance assigned by parents to vaccination and sources of information. METHODS:Observational, analytic, cross-sectional study in children ≤ 2 year sold. Median or mean values and proportions with 95% CI were calculated, using t-test and chi-square test. Logistic regression was used to evaluate association. RESULTS: 2344 children were surveyed. 29.2% (95% CI: 27.4-31.1) presented DS. Measles, mumps, rubella(MMR) and hepatitis A were the most delayed vaccines, while 12 and 18 months were the age groups with more delay. The best known diseases were measles, rubella and mumps. Over 95% of parents considered that vaccines were important. Predictors of DS were older age, lower socioeconomic status, hospital care and previous information about immunizations. Predictors of MOV were consultation reason, health care site and previous DS. CONCLUSIONS: Strategies should be directed to seize the opportunities of vaccination, train health personnel, educate the population and improve the diffusion of messages

Cobertura, esquemas atrasados y oportunidades perdidas de vacunación en niños de hasta 2 años: estudio observacional, analítico, transversal / Coverage, delayed schedules and missed oportunities for vaccination in children up to 2 years old: descriptive, analytic, cross-sectional study

INTRODUCCION: La vacunación universal ha sido una de las estrategias más efectivas en salud pública: ha contribuido a disminuir la incidencia de enfermedades infecciosas y a erradicar algunas de ellas. En Argentina la cobertura es subóptima, lo que se refleja en el avance de algunas enfermedades inmunoprevisibles (EIP). Es fundamental identificar qué proporción de la población presenta esquemas atrasados de vacunación (EAV) y determinar las causas de oportunidades perdidas de vacunación (OPV), a fin de desarrollar programas orientados a mejorar la cobertura, disminuir la morbi-mortalidad por estas enfermedades y lograr una mayor equidad en salud.OBJETIVO: Determinar la proporción de EAV y OPV en niños ≤2 años atendidos en centros de salud de Argentina y analizar los factores de riesgo. Evaluar el conocimiento y la información de los padres acerca de EIP.METODOS: Estudio observacional, analítico, transversal en niños ≤2 años. Se calculó mediana o media (variables continuas) y proporciones (datos categóricos), con IC: 95%. Se utilizó ttest (datos continuos) y chi cuadrado (variables categóricas). Se evaluó asociación (OR) mediante regresión logística.RESULTADOS: Se encuestaron 2.344 niños, el 29,2% (IC: 95%: 27,4-31,1) presentó EAV y un 4,7% (IC: 95%: 3,9-5,6) presentó OPV. Las vacunas con más atraso fueron triple viral (SRP) y hepatitis A. Los grupos de edad con más atraso fueron los de 12 y 18 meses. LAs enfermedades más conocidas fueron sarampión, rubeola y paperas. Más del 95% de los padres consideraron que las vacunas son importantes o muy importantes. Las variables predictoras de EAV fueron edad, nivel socioeconómico (NSE), lugar de atención e información previa sobre vacunas. Los factores predictores de OPV fueron motivo de consulta, lugar de atención y EAV.CONCLUSIONES: Es necesario desarrolla estrategias orientadas a aprovechar la oportunidad de vacunación, formar al personal de salud, concientizar a la población y difundir mejor los mensajes.

INTRODUCTION: Universal vaccination has been one of the most effective strategies in public health: it has helped to reduce drastically the incidence of many infectious diseases and to eradicate some of them. In Argentina, vaccination coverage is suboptimal. This is reflected in the increased incidence of certain vaccine preventable diseases (VPD). It is essential to identify the population percentage with late or incomplete schemes, and to detect the causes of missed oportunities of vaccinatio. Then it can be possible to develop programs to improve vaccination coverage, reduce morbidity/mortality from VPD and achieve greater equity in population’s health.OBJECTIVE: To determine the proportion of delayed schedules (DS) and missed oportunities of vaccination (MOV) in children ≤ 2 years old assisted in health-care services in Argentina, analyzing the risk factors. To assess parent’s knowledge and information about VPD.METHODS: Descriptive, analytic, cross-sectional study in children ≤ 2 years old . Median or mean values (continuous variables) and proportions (categorical data) with 95% CI were calculated, using ttest and chi-square test. Logistic regression was used to evaluate statistical differences and association (OR).RESULTS: 2.344 children were surveyed. 29.2% (95% CI: 3.9-5.6) presented MOV. Measles, mumps, rubeola vaccine (MMR) and Hepatitis A were the most delayes vaccines, while 12 and 18 months were the age groups with more delay. The best known diseases were measles, rubella and mumps. Over 95% of parents considered that vaccines were important or very important. Predictors of DS were age, socioeconomic status, attention site and previos information about immunizations. Predictors of MOV were consultation motive, attention site and previous DS.CONCLUSIONS: Strategies should be directed to vaccinatios oportunity seizing, health personnel train, population education and better messages diffusion.

Cobertura, esquemas atrasados y oportunidades perdidas de vacunación en niños de hasta 2 años: estudio observacional, analítico, transversal / Coverage, delayed schedules and missed oportunities for vaccination in children up to 2 years old: descriptive, analytic, cross-sectional study

INTRODUCCION: La vacunación universal ha sido una de las estrategias más efectivas en salud pública: ha contribuido a disminuir la incidencia de enfermedades infecciosas y a erradicar algunas de ellas. En Argentina la cobertura es subóptima, lo que se refleja en el avance de algunas enfermedades inmunoprevisibles (EIP). Es fundamental identificar qué proporción de la población presenta esquemas atrasados de vacunación (EAV) y determinar las causas de oportunidades perdidas de vacunación (OPV), a fin de desarrollar programas orientados a mejorar la cobertura, disminuir la morbi-mortalidad por estas enfermedades y lograr una mayor equidad en salud.OBJETIVO: Determinar la proporción de EAV y OPV en niños ≤2 años atendidos en centros de salud de Argentina y analizar los factores de riesgo. Evaluar el conocimiento y la información de los padres acerca de EIP.METODOS: Estudio observacional, analítico, transversal en niños ≤2 años. Se calculó mediana o media (variables continuas) y proporciones (datos categóricos), con IC: 95%. Se utilizó ttest (datos continuos) y chi cuadrado (variables categóricas). Se evaluó asociación (OR) mediante regresión logística.RESULTADOS: Se encuestaron 2.344 niños, el 29,2% (IC: 95%: 27,4-31,1) presentó EAV y un 4,7% (IC: 95%: 3,9-5,6) presentó OPV. Las vacunas con más atraso fueron triple viral (SRP) y hepatitis A. Los grupos de edad con más atraso fueron los de 12 y 18 meses. LAs enfermedades más conocidas fueron sarampión, rubeola y paperas. Más del 95% de los padres consideraron que las vacunas son importantes o muy importantes. Las variables predictoras de EAV fueron edad, nivel socioeconómico (NSE), lugar de atención e información previa sobre vacunas. Los factores predictores de OPV fueron motivo de consulta, lugar de atención y EAV.CONCLUSIONES: Es necesario desarrolla estrategias orientadas a aprovechar la oportunidad de vacunación, formar al personal de salud, concientizar a la población y difundir mejor los mensajes.

INTRODUCTION: Universal vaccination has been one of the most effective strategies in public health: it has helped to reduce drastically the incidence of many infectious diseases and to eradicate some of them. In Argentina, vaccination coverage is suboptimal. This is reflected in the increased incidence of certain vaccine preventable diseases (VPD). It is essential to identify the population percentage with late or incomplete schemes, and to detect the causes of missed oportunities of vaccinatio. Then it can be possible to develop programs to improve vaccination coverage, reduce morbidity/mortality from VPD and achieve greater equity in populations health.OBJECTIVE: To determine the proportion of delayed schedules (DS) and missed oportunities of vaccination (MOV) in children ≤ 2 years old assisted in health-care services in Argentina, analyzing the risk factors. To assess parents knowledge and information about VPD.METHODS: Descriptive, analytic, cross-sectional study in children ≤ 2 years old . Median or mean values (continuous variables) and proportions (categorical data) with 95% CI were calculated, using ttest and chi-square test. Logistic regression was used to evaluate statistical differences and association (OR).RESULTS: 2.344 children were surveyed. 29.2% (95% CI: 3.9-5.6) presented MOV. Measles, mumps, rubeola vaccine (MMR) and Hepatitis A were the most delayes vaccines, while 12 and 18 months were the age groups with more delay. The best known diseases were measles, rubella and mumps. Over 95% of parents considered that vaccines were important or very important. Predictors of DS were age, socioeconomic status, attention site and previos information about immunizations. Predictors of MOV were consultation motive, attention site and previous DS.CONCLUSIONS: Strategies should be directed to vaccinatios oportunity seizing, health personnel train, population education and better messages diffusion.

Oportunidades perdidas de avaliação sorológica para a infecção pelo vírus da imunodeficiência humana na rotina de atendimento ambulatorial do Hospital Universitário de Brasília, Distrito Federal / Missed opportunities for serological evaluation of human immunodeficiency virus infection during routine outpatient care at the University Hospital of Brasilia, Federal District

Foram estudados os fatores envolvidos na oferta de sorologia para detectar a infecção pelo vírus de imunodeficiência humana, no atendimento de adultos no ambulatório do Hospital Universitário de Brasília, por meio de aplicação de questionários específicos a 53 médicos e 347 usuários. Os resultados revelaram que 96,8 por cento dos usuários identificaram como fator de risco para adquirir a infecção as relações sexuais desprotegidas e 13,6 por cento desconheciam a possibilidade de transmissão vertical. Em relação à exposição dos usuários aos fatores de risco, 88,2 por cento praticaram relações sexuais desprotegidas, 22,2 por cento tiveram diagnóstico de outras doenças de transmissão sexual e 22,2 por cento tinham recebido transfusões sangüíneas. Os fatores de risco mais questionados pelos médicos foram a prática de relações sexuais desprotegidas e o diagnóstico prévio de hepatite B ou C (35,9 por cento para ambos). Dezoito por cento dos usuários receberam oferta de testes no Hospital Universitário de Brasília; 15,8 por cento foram testados e 7,4 por cento dos indivíduos testados não tiveram acesso ao resultado. Noventa e um por cento dos médicos referiram sentir-se confortáveis ao oferecer testes e apenas 30,4 por cento oferecem-nos rotineiramente. O estudo confirma a perda de oportunidades de testagem sorológica para detectar a infecção no Hospital Universitário de Brasília e reforça a necessidade de implementar medidas para corrigir o problema.

The factors involved in the provision of serological testing to detect human immunodeficiency virus infection, for adults within the outpatient care setting at the University Hospital of Brasilia, were studied. Specific questionnaires were applied to 53 physicians and 347 users. The results showed that 96.8 percent of the users identified unprotected sexual intercourse as a risk factor for acquiring this infection and that 13.6 percent were unaware of possibility of vertical transmission. Regarding users' exposure to risk factors, 88.2 percent practiced unprotected sexual intercourse, 22.2 percent had a diagnosis of other sexually transmitted diseases and 22.2 percent had received blood transfusions. The risk factors that physicians asked about most frequently were unprotected sexual practices and previous diagnoses of hepatitis B or C (35.9 percent for each). Eighteen percent of the users had been offered tests at the University Hospital of Brasilia; 15.8 percent underwent tests and 7.4 percent of the individuals tested had not had access to the results. Ninety-one percent of the physicians said that they felt comfortable about offering tests, while only 30.4 percent offered them routinely. The study confirms that opportunities for serological testing to detect this infection at the University Hospital of Brasilia have been missed and reinforces the need to implement measures to correct this problem.