Medicina

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15 pages, 1327 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relationship between Marriage and Prediabetes among Healthcare Workers: Mediating Effect of Triglycerides

by Yong-Hsin Chen, Jia-June Lin, Hsiu-Mei Tang, Ching-Wen Yang, Gwo-Ping Jong and Yi-Sun Yang

Medicina 2024, 60(9), 1418; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60091418 - 30 Aug 2024

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Background and Objectives: In the literature, relationships between being married and having prediabetes or diabetes are inconsistent. We aimed to investigate whether marriage is a protective or risk factor for prediabetes and to uncover new insights into its impact on prediabetes. Materials [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: In the literature, relationships between being married and having prediabetes or diabetes are inconsistent. We aimed to investigate whether marriage is a protective or risk factor for prediabetes and to uncover new insights into its impact on prediabetes. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional observational study, questionnaires were distributed by email to 1039 staff members who participated in an employee health check from a hospital affiliated with a medical university in Taiwan. Fasting blood glucose and triglyceride (TG) levels were checked and the questionnaires elicited basic demographic characteristics and included the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory and Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. The chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test, logistic regression, and mediation analysis were conducted for statistical analysis. Results: Among the group aged 20–37 years, married (OR = 1.89, 95%CI: 1.08, 3.33), obesity (OR = 2.95, 95%CI: 1.49, 5.83), neck and shoulder pain (OR = 1.31, 95%CI: 1.01, 1.69), and elevated TG levels (OR = 1.01, 95%CI: 1.00, 1.01) were independent risk factors for prediabetes (impaired fasting glucose). For those >38 years old, overweight (OR = 2.08, 95%CI: 1.27, 3.43), obesity (OR = 4.30, 95%CI: 2.38, 7.79), and elevated triglyceride (TG) (OR = 1.003, 95%CI: 1.00, 1.01) were the independent risk factors for impaired fasting glucose. Increased TG levels serve as a mediating factor (Z_m = 2.64, p < 0.01) linking marriage to an increased risk of prediabetes for the group aged 20–37 years. Conclusions: TGs play a significant role in the association between marriage and prediabetes among the group aged 20–37 years. Therefore, dietary habits, especially those of young adult couples should be considered. Our findings connect marital status to prediabetes, facilitating advances in diabetes prevention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Risk Factors, Prevention, and Inequalities)

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11 pages, 847 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence and Associated Factors with Frailty Using the Kihon Checklist among Community-Dwelling Older Adults in Taiwan

by Chien-Chih Chen, Wei-Chien Hsu, Yi-Hsuan Wu, Fang-Yu Lai, Pei-Yu Yang and I-Ching Lin

Medicina 2024, 60(8), 1231; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60081231 - 29 Jul 2024

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Abstract

Background and Objectives: Frailty in older adults is associated with adverse health outcomes. This study aimed to analyze the frailty status of community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan using the Kihon Checklist (KCL) and explore associations with demographic, physiological, and functional factors. Materials [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Frailty in older adults is associated with adverse health outcomes. This study aimed to analyze the frailty status of community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan using the Kihon Checklist (KCL) and explore associations with demographic, physiological, and functional factors. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 278 community-dwelling older adults were classified as robust, prefrail, or frail based on their KCL scores. Participants underwent physical fitness assessments including muscle strength and endurance tests, walking speed tests, and flexibility tests. One-way ANOVA and logistic regression analyses were used to examine differences and associations between frailty status and physical fitness indicators. Results: 36% of participants were robust, 47.1% prefrail, and 16.9% frail. The robust group significantly outperformed the prefrail and frail groups in the 30 s sit-to-stand test, 2.44 m sit-to-walk test, and walking speed (p < 0.001). The 2.44 m sit-to-walk test was a significant predictor of prefrailty (OR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.02–1.36) after adjusting for other physical fitness indicators. Conclusions: Lower limb functional capacity, particularly in the 2.44 m sit-to-walk test, was significantly associated with pre-frailty among community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan. Early screening, the classification of frailty by the Kihon Checklist, and targeted interventions focusing on lower limb strength, endurance, and mobility are crucial for preventing and delaying frailty progression in older populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Risk Factors, Prevention, and Inequalities)

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11 pages, 304 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Risk of Severe Fibromyalgia, Depression, Anxiety, and Insomnia Symptoms in Arab Women: An Implication of Self-Medication with Analgesics? A Cross-Sectional Study

by Omar Gammoh, Mariam Al-Ameri, Ghaith Altaani, Ahmed Al-smadi, Reham Al-Zegoul, Talal Massad, Ahmad F. Klaib, Mervat Alsous, Ammena Y. Binsaleh and Sireen Abdul Rahim Shilbayeh

Medicina 2024, 60(7), 1065; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60071065 - 28 Jun 2024

Viewed by 994

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The investigation of the psychosomatic symptoms in women residing in developing countries is still emerging. To be precise, the prevalence and correlates of severe fibromyalgia, depression, anxiety, and insomnia are understudied in Arab women, as these symptoms could relate to [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: The investigation of the psychosomatic symptoms in women residing in developing countries is still emerging. To be precise, the prevalence and correlates of severe fibromyalgia, depression, anxiety, and insomnia are understudied in Arab women, as these symptoms could relate to improper self-medication. This study mainly investigated the association between self-medication with analgesics and fibromyalgia, depression, anxiety, and insomnia symptoms among a community-based cohort of females in Jordan. Materials and Methods: We used a web-based cross-sectional study design. Fibromyalgia, depression, anxiety, and insomnia were assessed using validated scales. The used over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers were recorded. Results: Data were analyzed from 741 women, and fibromyalgia was screened in 16.4%, depression in 37.4%, anxiety in 27.8%, and insomnia in 38.3%. Fibromyalgia was associated with “married” (OR = 1.5, 95% CI = 1.017–2.305), “using OTC acetaminophen” (OR = 1.75, 95% CI = 1.15–2.69), “using herbal remedies” (OR = 2.02, 95% CI = 1.33–3.07), and “using antiseizure medications” (OR = 2.43, 95% CI = 1.38–4.28). Severe depression was significantly associated with “age” (OR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.96–0.99), “high school education” (OR = 1.90, 95% CI = 1.21–2.98), “smoking” (OR = 1.72, 95% CI = 1.15–2.56), “OTC acetaminophen” (OR = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.02–1.92), “OTC non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs” (OR = 1.75, 95% CI = 1.15–2.65), and “antiseizures” (OR = 2.19, 95% CI = 1.30–3.70). Severe anxiety was significantly associated with “smoking” (OR = 2.08, 95% CI = 1.40–3.12), “OTC acetaminophen” (OR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.06–2.06), and “antiseizure medications” (OR = 2.04, 95% CI = 1.22–3.41). Severe insomnia was significantly associated with “age” (OR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.96–0.99), “high school education” (OR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.01–2.47), “smoking” (OR = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.01–2.25), “OTC non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs” (OR = 1.74, 95% CI = 1.13–2.64), “antiseizure medications” (OR = 1.84, 95% CI = 1.09–3.11), and “No analgesics” (OR = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.32–0.71). Conclusions: Self-medication with analgesics is associated with a high burden of psychosomatic symptoms in Arab women, and awareness campaigns are required to guide self-medication behavior. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Risk Factors, Prevention, and Inequalities)

10 pages, 1580 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Education on Adherence to Recommended Prenatal Practices among Indigenous Ngäbe–Buglé Communities of Panama

by Sabrina M. Johnson, Erin N. Kelly, Benjamin LaBrot and Kristen Ryczak

Medicina 2024, 60(7), 1055; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60071055 - 27 Jun 2024

Viewed by 837

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to assess the adherence of Ngäbe–Buglé women to WHO-recommended prenatal practices. The secondary objective was to compare adherence levels between women who received prenatal education from official medical providers and those educated [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to assess the adherence of Ngäbe–Buglé women to WHO-recommended prenatal practices. The secondary objective was to compare adherence levels between women who received prenatal education from official medical providers and those educated through traditional or community-based sources within Ngäbe–Buglé communities. Materials and Methods: An eight-question survey was verbally administered to 137 Ngäbe–Buglé women at clinics set up by the non-profit NGO Floating Doctors in eight communities. A two-sided Fisher’s Exact test with a p = 0.05 was used to compare the results of mothers who received prenatal education from evidence-based sources to other groups. Results: Out of the 137 surveyed women, 65 reported taking prenatal vitamins, 21 had prenatal check-ups, 136 avoided alcohol, 31 increased caloric intake, and 102 maintained their activity levels. Significant differences were observed in prenatal vitamin adherence between those educated by official sources versus unofficial sources (p = 0.0029) and official sources compared to those with no prenatal education (p < 0.0001). The difference was also significant for education from an unofficial source versus no education (p = 0.0056). However, no significant differences were found in other prenatal practices based on education sources. Conclusions: Our findings highlight deficiencies in both prenatal education and adherence to recommended practices among Ngäbe–Buglé women. Prenatal education significantly improved adherence to taking prenatal vitamins, suggesting its effectiveness as an intervention. Future interventions should prioritize culturally competent prenatal education and address barriers to accessing prenatal healthcare in Ngäbe–Buglé communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Risk Factors, Prevention, and Inequalities)

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12 pages, 286 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Demographic and Socioeconomic Predictors of Prehypertension and Hypertension in the Adult Population: Serbian National Health Survey

by Igor Dimitrijev, Snezana Radovanovic, Zoran Vesic, Goran Colakovic, Viktor Selakovic, Ana Lackovic, Slavica S. Djordjevic, Maja Pesic, Danijela Nesovic, Radomir Lazarevic, Ognjen Djordjevic, Olgica Mihaljevic, Aleksandra Obradovic, Verica Vukicevic, Nikoleta Janicijevic and Jovana Radovanovic

Medicina 2024, 60(5), 824; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60050824 - 16 May 2024

Viewed by 1477

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Prehypertension and hypertension are the most common cardiovascular disorders worldwide and are increasingly considered one of the most serious public health problems, particularly in developing countries. The objective of this study was to determine the frequency and demographic and [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Prehypertension and hypertension are the most common cardiovascular disorders worldwide and are increasingly considered one of the most serious public health problems, particularly in developing countries. The objective of this study was to determine the frequency and demographic and socioeconomic predictors of prehypertension and hypertension in the adults in Serbia, and to examine the relationship between prehypertension and hypertension and health behavior determinants (smoking, alcohol use, physical activity) and individual aspects of health (a health self-assessment, multimorbidity, BMI, depressive symptoms). Materials and Methods: The research is part of the fourth National Population Health Survey conducted in 2019, which was conducted by the Republic Institute of Statistics, in cooperation with the Institute of Public Health of Serbia and the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Serbia. As a research instrument, questionnaires were used in accordance with the methodology of the European Health Survey. For the purposes of this research, data on the adult population aged 20 and over were used. Results: Women are at a reduced risk for both prehypertension (OR = 0.328) and hypertension (OR = 0.349) by nearly 70%. Similarly, those aged below 60 years have a lower risk for prehypertension and those younger than 40 years have a lower risk for hypertension (OR = 0.995), whereas people with a lower education have a 4.3 times higher risk of prehypertension (OR = 4.323) and a 1.6 times higher risk of hypertension (OR = 1.614). The poor have a 1.4 times higher risk of prehypertension (OR = 1.413) and a 1 times higher risk of hypertension (OR = 1.035). People with multimorbidity have a 1.2 times higher risk of both prehypertension (OR = 1.218) and a 4.8 times higher risk of hypertension (OR = 4.867). Conclusions: Male gender, lower education, poverty, age and the presence of multimorbidity are significant predictors of prehypertension and hypertension in the Serbian adult population, so preventive strategies should be aimed at these sensitive population groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Risk Factors, Prevention, and Inequalities)

13 pages, 740 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Treatment Nonadherence among Multimorbid Chronic Disease Patients: Evidence from 3515 Subjects in Indonesia

by Ivan Surya Pradipta, Kevin Aprilio, Yozi Fiedya Ningsih, Mochammad Andhika Aji Pratama, Sofa Dewi Alfian and Rizky Abdulah

Medicina 2024, 60(4), 634; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60040634 - 15 Apr 2024

Viewed by 1723

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Multimorbid patients require intensive treatment for their diseases. However, little research has been given to their treatment adherence as part of its management. This study aims to determine the prevalence and characteristics of chronic disease multimorbidity in Indonesia, alongside [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Multimorbid patients require intensive treatment for their diseases. However, little research has been given to their treatment adherence as part of its management. This study aims to determine the prevalence and characteristics of chronic disease multimorbidity in Indonesia, alongside its treatment nonadherence. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using the fifth Indonesian Family Life Survey database among adult subjects aged ≥ 15 years with multimorbidity. Our descriptive and multivariate analyses include sex, age, formal education, ethnicity, geographic residence, demographic residence, household size, insurance ownership, annual income, current self-perceived health status, missing active days, smoking behavior, and body mass index. Results: We identified 3515 multimorbid patients, constituting 30.8% prevalence across chronic disease patients. Hypertension was found to be a prevalent component of multimorbidity (61.2%), followed by digestive diseases (44.5%) and arthritis (30.3%). We identified that 36.4% of the subjects were nonadherent to their chronic disease treatment. Characteristics associated with nonadherence were found to be a good self-perception of health (aOR 1.79, 95% CI 1.54–2.08), active smoking behavior (aOR 1.51, 95% CI 1.14–1.99), no smoking behavior (aOR 1.44, 95% CI 1.08–1.90), missing seven active/productive days or less in the past month due to poor health (aOR 1.36, 95% CI 1.10–1.68), no insurance ownership (aOR 1.20, 95% CI 1.04–1.39), age of 15–65 years (aOR 1.25, 95% CI 1.01–1.55), income below IDR 40 million (aOR 1.23, 95% CI 1.04–1.46), and household size of 2–6 people (aOR 1.17, 95% CI 1.01–1.36). Conclusions: While the prevalence of multimorbidity in Indonesia is generally similar to that observed in previous studies, we have identified patient characteristics related to nonadherence. We suggest that patient’s nonadherence was primarily dictated by their self-perception of health and treatment complexity. With the longstanding issue of nonadherence, this study indicated the need to consider creating patient-tailored treatment programs in clinical practice to improve adherence by considering individual patients’ characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Risk Factors, Prevention, and Inequalities)

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11 pages, 296 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relationship between Sociodemographic and Health-Related Factors and Sedentary Time in Middle-Aged and Older Adults in Taiwan

by Hung-Chin Huang, Shao-Hsi Chang and Xiaolin Yang

Medicina 2024, 60(3), 444; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60030444 - 8 Mar 2024

Viewed by 1275

Abstract

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the associations between sociodemographic and health-related factors and sedentary time in middle-aged and older Taiwanese adults. Materials and Methods: A total of 1031 participants (460 men, 571 women; mean age 65.0 years ± [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the associations between sociodemographic and health-related factors and sedentary time in middle-aged and older Taiwanese adults. Materials and Methods: A total of 1031 participants (460 men, 571 women; mean age 65.0 years ± 7.8 years; range 55 to 93 years) were randomly recruited from the National Computer Assessment Telephone Interview, Taiwan, in 2013. Sedentary time, TV viewing, physical activity, and sociodemographic factors were assessed through questionnaires. Body mass index was self-reported and calculated to evaluate obesity. In 2023, the associations between sedentary time and sociodemographic and health-related factors were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation, cross tabulation, and logistic regression and were stratified by gender. Results: Over 47% of participants reported spending more than 2 h watching TV, and more than 33% reported engaging in over 6 h of total sedentary activities. Men and women with insufficient physical activity had a higher probability of prolonged sedentary time than their physically active counterparts (p = 0.032 for men, p = 0.024 for women). Both men and women who spent more than 2 h watching TV daily were more likely to have high sedentary time compared to those with shorter TV viewing durations (both p < 0.001). Highly educated and unmarried women exhibited a higher likelihood of prolonged sedentary time than their less educated and married counterparts (p = 0.021 and p = 0.01, respectively). Conclusions: Sedentary time showed significant and positive associations with both insufficient physical activity and prolonged TV viewing in both genders. Additionally, significant associations were observed between sedentary time and high education and unmarried status in women. These findings emphasize the importance of implementing gender-specific approaches in future interventions and policy initiatives aimed at reducing sedentary behavior among middle-aged and older adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Risk Factors, Prevention, and Inequalities)

17 pages, 1046 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gender Disparities in Health Biomarkers, Lifestyle Patterns, and Nutritional Status among Bank Staff: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Markus Schauer, Martin Burtscher, Mohamad Motevalli, Derrick Tanous, Susanne Mair and Katharina Wirnitzer

Medicina 2024, 60(3), 413; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60030413 - 28 Feb 2024

Viewed by 1533

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Despite the importance of nutritional status and a healthy lifestyle in shaping overall well-being, little is known about examining gender-specific differences and trends in health, lifestyle, and nutritional status. The present study aimed to evaluate blood levels of micronutrients, [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Despite the importance of nutritional status and a healthy lifestyle in shaping overall well-being, little is known about examining gender-specific differences and trends in health, lifestyle, and nutritional status. The present study aimed to evaluate blood levels of micronutrients, homocysteine, and CoQ10, as well as physical activity (PA) levels and sedentary behavior, among a cohort of Austrian bank staff, with a particular focus on identifying gender differences as well as gender-specific nutritional deficiencies compared to the reference ranges. Materials and Methods: Following a cross-sectional study design, 123 Austrian bank staff (mean age: 43 years; 51% females) participated in this study. Blood samples were collected to evaluate participants’ micronutrient status and serum levels of homocysteine and CoQ10. Whole-blood values of macronutrients were compared to gender-specific reference ranges and categorized into three groups: below, within, or over the range. The WHO’s Global Physical Activity Questionnaire was used to assess PA levels and sedentary behaviors. Results: No significant difference between males and females was found for diet types, PA levels, sedentary time, homocysteine levels, or CoQ10 values (p > 0.05). A high PA level was reported by 64% of males and 58% of females. 71% of females and 56% of males were found to have a vitamin D deficiency. 63–98% of females and 72–97% of males showed normal blood levels for the remaining micronutrients, including potassium, calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, selenium, manganese, molybdenum, B₆, B₉, and B₁₂. Conclusions: The findings highlight the necessity of implementing tailored strategies to foster healthy lifestyle behaviors, thereby enhancing the overall state of health, particularly in the context of occupational health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Risk Factors, Prevention, and Inequalities)

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8 pages, 261 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Women’s Awareness of Reproductive Health

by Oliwia Zalewska, Katarzyna Wszołek, Małgorzata Pięt, Maciej Wilczak and Karolina Chmaj-Wierzchowska

Medicina 2024, 60(1), 158; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60010158 - 15 Jan 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2151

Abstract

Background and Objectives: reproductive disorders are a serious global concern in medical, social, and demographic contexts. According to estimates, approximately 10–15% of couples around the world suffer from infertility. Numerous studies have shown that modifiable lifestyle factors, such as a high-fat diet, [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: reproductive disorders are a serious global concern in medical, social, and demographic contexts. According to estimates, approximately 10–15% of couples around the world suffer from infertility. Numerous studies have shown that modifiable lifestyle factors, such as a high-fat diet, a postponed decision to start a family, tobacco smoking, alcohol consumption, risky sexual behavior, psychiatric diseases, and chronic stress, have a negative influence on the fertility of women. The main goal of this study is to assess the knowledge of women about reproductive health, infertility risk factors, and causes of infertility and to determine whether the level of this knowledge varies based on sociodemographic variables. Materials and Methods: a survey was conducted among 111 patients who anonymously filled in a questionnaire comprising questions regarding fertility and its deficiencies. The results were analyzed using the Chi-square test and Fisher’s test. Results: the survey results indicated that women had a good or very good level of knowledge of the causes of infertility. The obtained test results were statistically significant (p < 0.05), but the studied group did not possess sufficient knowledge of the symptoms characterizing the diseases related to limited fertility (p > 0.05). The level of knowledge on the diagnosis of infertility did not depend on the age of the examined people, their educational level, or personal experience in this field (p > 0.05). The results also revealed that the awareness of women on reproductive health was poor. The studied women had a low level of knowledge of infertility risk factors, and their knowledge did not correlate with age, educational level, or personal experiences. Conclusions: information on the aspects of reproductive health should be widely disseminated through public educational campaigns, aimed at correcting erroneous convictions among women about the risk factors for infertility and assisting them in improving fertility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Risk Factors, Prevention, and Inequalities)

12 pages, 608 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Survey of Recombinant Zoster Vaccine among Cardiologists and Cardiac Nurses in Italy

by Domenico Ponticelli, Ippazio Cosimo Antonazzo, Lorenzo Losa, Anna Zampella, Fabio Di Marino, Gaetano Mottola, Mara Noemi Fede, Fortuna Gallucci, Roberto Magliuolo, Antonio Rainone, Carmine Del Giudice, Antonella Arcari and Pietro Ferrara

Medicina 2024, 60(1), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60010093 - 3 Jan 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2233

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Cardiac patients are particularly at risk of herpes zoster (HZ), which is associated with a higher risk of major cardiovascular events. This research aimed to analyze the knowledge, attitudes and practices towards recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) among cardiac healthcare [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Cardiac patients are particularly at risk of herpes zoster (HZ), which is associated with a higher risk of major cardiovascular events. This research aimed to analyze the knowledge, attitudes and practices towards recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) among cardiac healthcare professionals (HPs). Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in a cardiological hospital in Italy. Multivariate regression models were built to identify factors associated with the outcomes of interest. Results: The response rate was 78.2% (154/197). Overall, age > 50 years and immunosuppression were recognized as risk factors for HZ by 38.3% and 75.3% of respondents, respectively. Regarding RZV, 29.1% of the HPs correctly responded about its schedule and 57.6% about the possibility of administration in immunocompromised individuals. This knowledge was significantly higher in HPs with a higher educational level (odds ratio (OR) = 4.42; 95%CI 1.70–11.47), in those who knew that HZ could cause postherpetic neuralgia (OR = 2.56; 95%CI 1.05–6.25) or major cardiovascular events (OR = 4.23; 95%CI 1.50–11.91), in those who had participated in professional updates on vaccinations (OR = 3.86; 95%CI 1.51–9.87) and in those who stated the need for further information about the RZV (OR = 6.43; 95%CI 1.42–29.98). Younger HPs (coefficient (β) = −0.02; 95%CI −0.04–−0.01), those with a positive attitude toward RZV safety (β = 2.92; 95%CI 2.49–3.36) and those who had previously cared for patients with HZ (β = 0.45; 95%CI 0.03–0.88) reported a more positive attitude toward RZV effectiveness. The practice of recommending vaccination was more prevalent in younger HPs (OR = 0.94; 95%CI 0.89–0.99), in those who had a master’s degree or higher education (OR = 7.21; 95%CI 1.44–36.08), in those with more positive attitudes toward RZV effectiveness (OR = 7.17; 95%CI 1.71–30.03) and in HPs who had already recommended the vaccine to patients in the past (OR = 4.03; 95%CI 1.08–14.96). Conclusions: Despite being a single-center study, our research brings attention to factors that currently impact cardiac HPs’ approaches to RZV. The findings indicate potential measures to enhance HPs’ awareness and practices, ultimately aiming to improve vaccination adherence and reduce the burden associated with HZ. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Risk Factors, Prevention, and Inequalities)

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16 pages, 1687 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sexual Violence and Alcohol Intake: A Population-Based Explorative Study in a Northwestern Italian Area

by Barbara Mognetti, Federica Di Scipio, Giuliana Abbadessa, Giulia Carnino, Antonella Canavese, Paola Castagna, Federica Romano, Sarah Gino and Giovanni N. Berta

Medicina 2023, 59(12), 2098; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59122098 - 29 Nov 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1532

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Sexual violence (SV) is a major global public health concern. While socioeconomic factors and familial relationships have been widely reported to contribute to SV, the role of alcohol consumption should not be ignored. Indeed, alcohol can impair cognition, distort [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Sexual violence (SV) is a major global public health concern. While socioeconomic factors and familial relationships have been widely reported to contribute to SV, the role of alcohol consumption should not be ignored. Indeed, alcohol can impair cognition, distort reality, increase aggression, and ease drug-facilitated sexual assault. This retrospective study aims to explore the relationship between alcohol consumption and SV by examining the prevalence, characteristics, and consequences of violence episodes. Materials and Methods: A total of 1481 women accessed the Rape Centre “Centro Soccorso Violenza Sessuale” in Turin, Italy between 2008 and 2019, with 223 reporting alcohol consumption before the assault. Results: The alcohol group had a younger age profile, predominantly within the 18–25-year-old category. SV incidents involving alcohol consumers were more likely to occur in public places or in someone else’s home, while the non-alcohol-consuming group experienced more violence in their own homes. Acquaintances and unknown individuals were primarily responsible, whereas partners were the most common perpetrators of violence against non-alcohol-consuming women. Alcohol consumers sought medical attention sooner after the assault and exhibited more symptoms and injuries, particularly of neurological origin. Concurrent use of recreational drugs was higher among alcohol consumers. The logistic regression analysis revealed higher odds of injury for Italian women and those in the 18–35 age groups after consuming alcohol. Conclusions: This study contributes to the understanding of the relationship between alcohol consumption and SV. The prevalence of alcohol-related sexual aggression is lower compared to that shown in previous studies. Nationality, age, and assailant identity influence SV dynamics. These findings can guide well-targeted interventions and prevention strategies to address SV and inform communities facing similar challenges. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Risk Factors, Prevention, and Inequalities)

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