The prevalence of stress, stressors and coping mechanisms and the socio-demographic factors associated among the auto-rickshaw drivers in Bengaluru city, India

CONTEXT

Socio-demographic and environmental factors attribute to stress for auto-rickshaw driver leading to compromise of driver and passenger safety.

AIMS

This study assesses the prevalence and socio-demographic factors associated with stress and identifies the stressors and coping mechanisms in auto-rickshaw drivers.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

A cross-sectional study was conducted amongst 140 randomly selected auto-rickshaw drivers in Bengaluru city, India.

METHODS AND MATERIAL

Data was collected at a place and time convenient to the study participants using semi-structured pre-tested tool. Stress was assessed using Cohen's Perceived Stress Scale.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Data was entered and analyzed using Epi Info™ software. Two sample t/ANOVA tests were used to compare the difference in means and standard deviations (SD) between the sub-groups. P <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Mean age of the auto-rickshaw drivers was 32.8 ± 8.3 years, majority belonged to the 25-30 years age-group. About 55.7%, 40.7% and 28.7% were consuming tobacco products, alcohol and some both, respectively. While the prevalence of self-reported stress was 76.4% (n = 107), 78.6% (n = 110) had stress based on Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) assessment. Mean PSS for participants self-reporting stress was 20.51 ± 5.25 as against 12.36 ± 4.98 who did not (P < 0.001). The mean PSS was 17.55 ± 4.13, 20.65 ± 5.23 and 23 ± 5.12 among those who self-reported having mild-, moderate- and severe-degree stress, respectively (P < 0.001). There was no significant association of any socio-demographic factors with the PSS score. Financial problems (n = 51; 47.7%) was the leading stressor, followed by road traffic (n = 49; 45.8%). Conclusions: Appropriate strategies are needed to address the high level of stress among auto-rickshaw drivers.

Factors in the Use of Workplace Health Promotion on Back Health. Results of the Survey "German Health Update"

Background: The influence of the working environment on the back health of employees is well-documented. Many companies have begun to offer employees access to services to promote back health. Factors affecting the use of these offers at the population level have received little investigation to date. The current study examined the socio-demographic factors, physical activity and health-related factors, and work-related factors associated with the use of offers of workplace health promotion for back health in Germany. Materials and Methods: In the representative population-based cross-sectional survey "German Health Update" (GEDA 2014/2015-EHIS) conducted by the Robert Koch Institute, 12,072 employees aged 18-64 years old were surveyed from November 2014 to July 2015 regarding the use of back health services in their companies. In addition to socio-demographic factors, the survey examined working hours, physical activity in leisure time, health awareness, and subjective complaints in the lower back or other chronic back problems in the last 12 months. The interaction of these factors with the utilization of back health services was tested using multiple logistic regression models. Results: Women used back health services more often than men (women: 25.5%; men: 18.1%). Female gender was associated with part-time employment (OR 0.72) and a strong to very strong level of health awareness (OR 1.40). Male gender was associated with age between 30 and 44 years (OR 1.99) and 45-64 years (OR 2.02), low socioeconomic status (OR 0.48), endurance activity of <2.5 h per week (OR 0.62), and absence of lower back pain or other chronic back conditions for the last 12 months (OR 0.48). Conclusion: The present study is the first to provide findings regarding the factors associated with the utilization of workplace health promotion to promote back health at the population level, and from the perspective of employees in Germany. The results revealed that the relevant factors for participating in offers differ for women and men. To reach more employees, workplace health promotion offers for back health should be designed specifically for each individual, considering gender and age, working hours, health awareness and behavior, and health state.

Socio-Demographic Factors Influencing the Use of Assistive Technology among Children with Disabilities in Malawi

This paper aims to address the information gap on the influence of socio-demographic factors on access and utilization of Assistive Technology (AT) among children with disabilities in Malawi. Thus, it contributes towards the realization of the recommendations of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with disabilities and the development of a framework for creating an effective national AT policy. The paper used two statistically matched datasets, namely, the 2017 survey on Living conditions among persons with disabilities in Malawi and the 2015-16 Malawi Demographic and Health survey. Logistic regression and structural equation modeling techniques were utilized to assess the influence of socio-demographic factors on the use of AT among children with disabilities. The results indicate that there is a high level of unmet need for AT among young children aged 2 to 9 and those living in urban areas. The results further indicate that children with multiple disabilities have lower odds (OR = 0.924) of using AT for personal mobility compared to children with a single functional difficulty. These results entail that AT needs for children with multiple disabilities are not adequately addressed. Therefore, when developing policies on AT, younger children and those with multiple disabilities need to be specifically targeted.

Non-Institutional Childbirths and the Associated Socio-Demographic Factors in Gambella Regional State, Ethiopia

The decades-long global efforts to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality have shown overall progress, but most developing countries are still lagging significantly. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of non-institutional childbirths in the Gambella State and to identify socio-demographic factors responsible for non-institutional utilization of available birth services by reproductive-aged mothers. A community-based cross-sectional study design was adopted using a multi-stage random sampling technique. Binary logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with the selected place of birth. EpiData version 3.1 and SPSS version 13.0 were applied for data entry and analyses. All the 657 eligible mothers recruited for this study responded to the interview. 71% of the total respondents had non-institutional childbirths (NICB), and the rest had their most recent childbirth in an institution with skilled healthcare providers' assistance. Socio-demographic factors were significantly associated with NICB. Nuer (AOR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.23-3.63) and Majang ethnic (AOR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.02-3.83) groups had higher rates of NICB than the rest of the study population. The prevalence of non-institutional childbirths in Gambella remained two times higher than the institutional childbirths.

Breakfast Eating Habits and Lifestyle Behaviors among Saudi Primary School Children Attending Public Versus Private Schools

We investigated breakfast eating habits and lifestyle behaviors among Saudi school children attending public versus private schools. A random sample of 1149 children (girls: 54.4%) from public and private schools was selected from elementary schools using the multistage stratified cluster method. Measurements included body weight, height, body mass index (BMI), and self-reported questionnaires filled by the child’s parents. There was no significant (p = 0.44) difference in the prevalence of breakfast intake between children attending public (20.6%) versus private (19.4%) schools. However, there was a gender by school type interactions in breakfast intake frequency, as boys in private but not in public schools had significantly (p = 0.006) higher (26.3%) daily breakfast intake than girls (13.3%). Over 56% of the children ate and drank from the school canteen, and impacting factors on children’s choices were children’s desire, food taste, and parental influence. More parents of children in private (12.1%) than in public (6.9%) schools were satisfied with the food in the school canteen. Younger age (aOR = 0.889, 95% CI = 0.815–0.970, p = 0.008), higher father education (aOR = 1.380, 95% CI = 1.130–1.686, p = 0.002), family income (aOR = 1.227, 95% CI = 1.005–1.498, p = 0.044), and insufficient sleep duration (aOR = 0.740, 95% CI = 0.553–0.990, p = 0.042) were significantly associated with being in a private school. Furthermore, no significant differences, when adjusted for socio-demographic factors, appeared in breakfast intake or overweight/obesity relative to school type. Interventions to improve daily breakfast consumption and lifestyle behaviors of Saudi children are warranted.

The Current and Forecasted Status of Type 2 Diabetes in the Arab Society of Israel

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is considered one of the main causes of mortality, morbidity, and health care expenditures. Effectively treating this disease is of crucial importance and imposes a global challenge. The incidence of Type 2 DM (T2DM) is rapidly rising in both developing and developed countries. The Arab community in Israel is a distinct ethnic group with unique characteristics. Recently, this community has undergone major changes in its lifestyle, adopting the Westernized one, which could have caused an increase in the T2DM incidence rate.

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to shed light on various studies undertaken to explore the prevalence of diabetes and determine its current status in the Arab society of Israel, resting on previous and current data. It is presented to highlight the status of diabetes globally and to focus on its current situation in the Arab society of Israel, attempting to forecast its direction in the upcoming decade.

METHODS

Data were obtained from our previous comprehensive socio-economic and health crosssectional surveys for successive periods from 2004 to 2017. These surveys were conducted on the Arab society of Israel by the Galilee Society.

RESULTS

Our results showed a progressive increase in the prevalence of T2DM from 3.4% to 7.6% in the Arab society of Israel. This trend is expected to continue rising in the coming decade, and based on our predictions, may exceed 12% in 2030.

CONCLUSION

Substantial and practical health-related actions must be initiated to prevent an increasing number of adults from developing diabetes and its complications.

Dietary Patterns, Their Nutrients, and Associations with Socio-Demographic and Lifestyle Factors in Older New Zealand Adults

Dietary patterns analyse combinations of foods eaten. This cross-sectional study identified dietary patterns and their nutrients. Associations between dietary patterns and socio-demographic and lifestyle factors were examined in older New Zealand adults. Dietary data (109-item food frequency questionnaire) from the Researching Eating, Activity and Cognitive Health (REACH) study (n = 367, 36% male, mean age = 70 years) were collapsed into 57 food groups. Using principal component analysis, three dietary patterns explained 18% of the variation in diet. Dietary pattern associations with sex, age, employment, living situation, education, deprivation score, physical activity, alcohol, and smoking, along with energy-adjusted nutrient intakes, were investigated using regression analysis. Higher 'Mediterranean' dietary pattern scores were associated with being female, higher physical activity, and higher education (p < 0.001, R2 = 0.07). Higher 'Western' pattern scores were associated with being male, higher alcohol intake, living with others, and secondary education (p < 0.001, R2 = 0.16). Higher 'prudent' pattern scores were associated with higher physical activity and lower alcohol intake (p < 0.001, R2 = 0.15). There were positive associations between beta-carotene equivalents, vitamin E, and folate and 'Mediterranean' dietary pattern scores (p < 0.0001, R2 ≥ 0.26); energy intake and 'Western' scores (p < 0.0001, R2 = 0.43); and fibre and carbohydrate and 'prudent' scores (p < 0.0001, R2 ≥ 0.25). Socio-demographic and lifestyle factors were associated with dietary patterns. Understanding relationships between these characteristics and dietary patterns can assist in health promotion.

Food consumption according to the degree of processing, dietary diversity and socio-demographic factors among pregnant women in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: The Rio Birth Cohort Study of Environmental Exposure and Childhood Development (PIPA project)

BACKGROUND

Relevant evidence has addressed the negative impact of food processing on health. However, maternal ultra-processed food consumption is poorly investigated.

AIM

To analyze food consumption according to the degree of food processing, dietary diversity, and associated socio-demographic factors during pregnancy.

METHODS

Cross-sectional data was taken from a birth cohort in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with 142 pregnant women. We assessed diet using a qualitative food frequency questionnaire and classified food items according to the NOVA classification system as non-ultra-processed-foods and ultra-processed-foods. Non-ultra-processed-food and ultra-processed-food scores were calculated, reflecting weekly intake of more than one subgroup. Dietary diversity of the non-ultra-processed-food diet fraction was described according to the Food and Agriculture Organization guidelines. The association between food consumption and socio-demographic factors were investigated using logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Over 60% of the pregnant women reported consumption of at least three non-ultra-processed-food groups. However, only 25% had adequate dietary diversity. The level of education (Complete high school: odds ratio, 5.36; 95% confidence interval, 1.73-16.65) was associated with regular intake of "meat and eggs." Among the ultra-processed-food score, 27% of the participants described a weekly consumption of at least two ultra-processed-food subgroups. White women (odds ratio, 2.63; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-6.63) had a higher chance of reporting "packaged ready meals" consumption.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows a high weekly consumption of ultra-processed-food subgroups and low dietary diversity of the non-ultra-processed-food fraction of the diet of pregnant women in Brazil. Our results elucidate the influence of socio-demographic characteristics on diet quality during pregnancy.

Predictive factors in early onset schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a neurodevelopmental disorder, characterized by impairment in reasoning, affectivity and social relationships. Although the diagnosis of schizophrenia in children and adolescents has been challenged for many years, at present childhood-onset schizophrenia is considered and accepted as a clinical and biological continuum with the adult-onset disorder. The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of biological (psychiatric family history, perinatal factors), and socio-demographic factors (area of residence, gender) on the age at onset and severity of symptomatology in children and adolescent with schizophrenia. The data were collected from 2016 to 2019 and included 148 children and adolescents with schizophrenia. Data were analysed with statistical software (IBM SPSS 22, JASP and JAMOVI, Linear Regression Model, χ² tests, t-test, U-test). A positive familial history for psychiatric diseases was an important risk factor both for an early onset and for the severity of symptoms. Urbanicity was another studied risk factor, 61% of patients being from urban areas; no statistically significant correlations between urbanicity and age at onset and severity of symptoms were identified. There was no statistically significant gender difference in terms of age at onset and severity of symptoms. Moreover, no statistically significant correlations were found between perinatal factors and age at onset and severity of symptoms. Positive psychiatric family history showed a statistically significant influence on age at onset and symptoms severity in children and adolescent schizophrenia; no statistical significant impact on the aforementioned schizophrenia aspects was observed for urbanicity, gender or perinatal factors.

Prevalence and correlates of menstrual hygiene practices among young currently married women aged 15-24 years: an analysis from a nationally representative survey of India

PURPOSE

This paper aims to investigate the prevalence by geographical locations and socio-demographic correlates of menstrual hygienic practices among young currently married Indian women.

METHODS

The study is based on secondary data, collected from the latest round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4), conducted in 2015-16. A total of 94,034 young currently married women aged 15-24 years were utilised in this study. The prevalence of menstrual hygienic practices was portrayed across regions, states, and districts of India. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were carried out to assess the factors associated with menstrual hygienic practices.

RESULTS

Nearly half of the women (49.3%) practice hygienic methods to contain menstrual bloodstains. The prevalence of menstrual hygiene practices is lower in low-income states of central and eastern India. Multivariate analyses reveal that education of women and wealth status are found to be the most important positive factors of menstrual hygienic practices. Women's autonomy and exposure to mass media also have a positive impact on the use of menstrual hygiene practice. In contrast, women residing in rural areas, belonging in scheduled tribes and unemployed women are less likely to use hygienic methods during their menstruation.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study suggest increasing opportunities for female education, providing economic incentives, enhancing women's autonomy could help to increase hygienic practices of women during menstruation period. Furthermore, interventions should target socio-economically disadvantaged women to raise the use of sanitary napkins.

The Sense of Coherence, Self-Perception of Aging and the Occurrence of Depression Among the Participants of the University of the Third Age Depending on Socio-Demographic Factors

Purpose

The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between the sense of coherence and self-perception of aging and the risk of depression among attendees of the University of the Third Age (U3A). The influence of socio-demographic factors was studied.

Participants and Methods

The study involved 315 attendees of the U3A aged on average 68.4 years, age range 60–82 years old. The overwhelming majority were women (91.7%). Cross-sectional research was conducted using standardized questionnaires – the SOC-29 scale, the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS – brief version) and the author’s own questionnaire regarding self-perception of aging.

Results

The study participants showed an average level of sense of coherence (130.7± 23.2). The highest number of people obtained average results of sense of coherence, both in terms of global SOC (75.2%) and its components. The highest scores on the SOC-29 scale were found for the sense of comprehensibility (41.3%). The mean value of the self-perception of aging was 69.0±16.0 and indicates the lower range of results for positive attitude. Nearly ¾ (72.1%) of the respondents had a positive self-perception of aging. The values of the scale of self-perception of aging showed a statistically significant relation to the global level of sense of coherence and its components (p<0.001). In people without depression, positive self-perception of aging was significantly more frequent than among participants with depression of increasing intensity. Education was significantly correlated with the results of the SOC-29 scale, the self-perception of aging scale and the GDS scale.

Conclusion

From the U3A research group, better educated elderly people have a higher sense of coherence and show a more positive self-perception of aging. Moreover, these people are less likely to show signs of senile depression.

Dissatisfaction with Body Weight among Polish Adolescents Is Related to Unhealthy Dietary Behaviors

The aims of the study were to determine the socio-demographic factors that may affect body weight dissatisfaction and to analyze the relationship between eating habits and dissatisfaction with body weight among a national random sample of Polish adolescents aged 13–19 years. Data on gender, age, level of education, body weight status, screen time, body weight satisfaction and selected nutritional behaviors were collected using a questionnaire. Body mass status was assessed based on weight and height measurements. A total of 14,044 students from 207 schools participated in the study. A significant effect of gender, age, level of education, body weight status and screen time status on the participants’ dissatisfaction with the body weight was observed. The greater prevalence of body weight satisfaction was observed among boys, younger subjects, secondary school students, adolescents with normal body weight status and those with screen time up to 2 h. Whereas girls, older study participants (17–19 years old), overweight/obese adolescents and subjects with screen time over 4 h were more often dissatisfied with body weight. Furthermore, it has been shown that participants dissatisfied with their body weight less often met dietary recommendations. These findings can help dietitians, nutritionists and healthcare professionals to provide age-specific and gender-specific nutrition strategies to promote healthy lifestyle among school-going adolescents.

Understanding of Medication Information in Primary Health Care: A Cross-Sectional Study in a South Eastern European Population

Aim: We aimed to assess adult primary health care (PHC) users' understanding of their medication information in a transitional South Eastern European population across seven domains. Methods: A cross-sectional study, carried out in Albania in 2018-19, included a representative sample of 1,553 PHC users aged ≥18 years (55% women; overall mean age: 54.6 ± 16.4 years; overall response rate: 94%). Participants were asked about their understanding of information they received from their respective family physicians about prescribed medicines in terms of factors like cost, dosage, and side-effects. Socio-demographic data were also gathered. Binary logistic regression was employed to assess the socio-demographic predictors of information about medication use and administration. Results: Across different aspects of use and administration, 21-60% of participants did not understand their medications. Less understanding of medication use was particularly high among the poor and those with low education and among urban residents, irrespective of socioeconomic status. Conclusion: This study provides important evidence about the level and socio-demographic determinants on understanding of information about medication use and administration among adult PHC users in a transitional former communist country in South Eastern Europe. Policymakers should be aware of the joint role and interplay between health literacy (demand side) and information provision (supply side), which both significantly influence the understanding of medication use by the general population.

Self-Reported Oral Health, Oral Hygiene and Associated Factors in Lithuanian Adult Population, 1994-2014

This study aimed to examine 20-year trends (1994-2014) in self-reported oral health and oral hygiene and to assess the associated factors in a Lithuanian population aged 20-64 years. Nationally representative cross-sectional data on 8612 men and 11,719 women were obtained from 11 biennial postal surveys of Lithuanian health behavior monitoring. Dentate status was assessed by asking about the number of missing teeth. Over the study period, the proportion of men with all teeth increased from 17.5% to 23.0% and the same proportion increased in women-from 12.5% to 19.6%. The prevalence of edentulousness was 2.8% in 2014. The proportion of individuals brushing teeth at least twice a day increased from 14.6% to 31.9% in men and from 33.0% to 58.8% in women. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that older age, lower education, living in rural areas, daily smoking, confectionary consumption (only in women), obesity, no visits to a dentist during the past year, toothache and brushing teeth less than twice a day increased the odds of missing six or more teeth. Efforts should be made to promote good oral hygiene habits, prevent and control behavioral risk factors and increase access to dental care among risk groups.

Prevalence of Mental Disorders, Cognitive Impairment, and Dementia Among Older Adults in Egypt: Protocol for a Systematic Review

Background

In Egypt, the population of older adults is rapidly growing. The last census in 2017 indicated that older adults numbered 94.8 million, which is a 2.56% increase from the 2006 census. There is growing evidence that the older population is at greater risk for some forms of mental disorders such as depression, dementia, and many more.

Objective

This study aims to review the current evidence regarding the prevalence of mental disorders among older adults in Egypt. This will be achieved by estimating the current prevalence of mental disorders and identifying any sociodemographic correlations with mental disorders.

Methods

An electronic search of 5 key databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE, AMED, and PubMed) from their date of inception was conducted. In addition, scans of reference lists and searches of key journals, citations, and relevant internet resources were conducted. Studies were included if they were published in English, point prevalence studies, conducted with older Egyptians aged ≥60 years, and conducted using a validated diagnostic tool to ascertain mental disorders. Studies that did not meet any of these criteria were excluded.

Results

This systematic review started in November 2018. The literature search of the 5 databases revealed 343 papers. After screening titles and abstracts, scanning citations and reference lists, and searching internet sources, a total of 38 full-text articles were accessed, of which 16 studies met the eligibility criteria and were included. We are currently in the process of data extraction and synthesis.

Conclusions

This research will help bring the scale of mental disorders among older adults in Egypt to the forefront. This may help ensure evidence-based initiatives are established and that priority is given to resource allocation for geriatric mental health in Egypt.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Review CRD42018114831; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=114831

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/14637

The association between postpartum depression and early childhood caries

Objective: To determine whether postnatal depression was associated with early childhood caries (ECC).Methods: This cross-sectional study was nested in a large cohort study named Born in Guangzhou Cohort Study (BIGCS). Mothers were invited to answer the Chinese version of Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS) at 11-14 months postpartum. Children's ECC experience was assessed at 24-37 months old. Socio-demographic factors were collected by a self-completed questionnaire. Chi-square test was used for bivariate analysis, and binary logistic regression was used for multivariable analysis.Results: Totally 337 mother/children pairs were included into this study. Among them, 33 children had caries experience, accounting for 9.8% of the participants. Mothers with EPDS scores between 7 and 10 were associated with worse ECC experience of their children (adjusted OR = 2.948, 95% CI = 1.209-7.190), whereas mothers with EPDS scores higher than 10 were not associated with ECC experience of their children. Mother's education and the number of children living together were also associated with children's ECC experience (adjusted OR = 1.822, 95% CI = 1.013-3.275, and adjusted OR = 1.528, 95% CI = 1.086-2.150, respectively). Other factors such as maternal age at the time of conception, family income, mother's work status, duration of breastfeeding, and children's gender did not show effect on children's ECC experience.Conclusion: Postnatal depression could be associated with children's ECC experience. In this study, mothers with slightly depression symptoms were more likely to have adverse effects on their children's ECC experience.

Social Support, Perceived Stress, Socio-Demographic Factors and Relationship Quality among Polish Mothers of Prematurely Born Children

Families with a prematurely born child may be exposed to various difficulties associated with prematurity. The study aimed to explain the relationship between social support and the quality of the partnership among mothers of children born prematurely. In addition, the coexistence of social support, perceived stress and social-demographical factors in the neonatal period was examined. The study group consisted of 260 mothers of preterm born children. Subjects completed The Socio-Demographic Questionnaire, The Social Support Sources Questionnaire (SSQ), The Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS) and The Perceived Stress Questionnaire (PSQ). In the second phase of the study, mothers completed The Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS). Person's correlation coefficients were used to examine the variables and hierarchical linear regression analyses were performed to examine the relative contributions of social support on partnership relation quality. The study results showed that social support is positively related to partnership relationship quality among mothers of preterm born children. Social support measured in the neonatal period is not connected with relationship quality measured in the early childhood period. Social support is related with the father's level of education and perceived stress corresponds with the level of parents' education. The findings highlight the importance of expanding supportive resources for couples dealing with premature birth, especially among those with a lower level of education and lower financial status.

The Influence of Socio-Demographic Factors, Lifestyle and Psychiatric Indicators on Adherence to Treatment of Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background and Objectives: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a severe autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the joints accompanied by the progressive deformation and destruction of cartilage and joint bones. This study aims to gain insight into the outcomes related to adherence in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Predicting the medication adherence in RA patients is a key point to improve the treatment outcome. Materials and Methods: A number of 119 Romanian patients with RA were included and divided into two groups: first group included 79 patients treated with conventional therapy and second group included 40 patients treated with biologic therapy. A CQR-9 (compliance questionnaire rheumatology with nine items) and PDSQ (psychiatric diagnostic screening questionnaire) were performed to assess correlations between medication adherence, patient sociodemographic variables, 11 psychiatric scales (major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, psychosis, agoraphobia, social phobia, drug abuse/dependence, generalized anxiety disorder, somatization disorder, hypochondriasis) and lifestyle (bulimia, alcohol intake). Results: Whilst modelling factors associated with adherence, it was found that women and patients with higher education are more adherent. From the psychiatric indicators, only major depressive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder were found to be positively correlated with therapeutic adherence. None of the assessed lifestyle factors influenced the adherence of RA patients. Conclusion: The knowledge of factors that impact on treatment adherence can be useful for clinicians to guide patient-centred care.

Associations Between Quality of Life, Psychosocial Well-being and Health-Related Behaviors Among Adolescents in Chinese, Japanese, Taiwanese, Thai and the Filipino Populations: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Health-related behaviors during adolescence have lifelong impacts. However, there are unclear areas regarding the associations between health-related quality of life and demographic characteristics, as well as physical and psychosocial indicators. The aim of this study was to examine the associations between quality of life and body weight, sleep outcome, social support by age, and cohabitants, given that income, self-esteem, lifestyle, emotional, social and behavioral problems were taken into account among adolescents in East and Southeast Asia. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Zhengzhou of China, Hong Kong, Kansai region of Japan, Taipei of Taiwan, Bangkok of Thailand and Manila of the Philippines between 2016 and 2017 among 21,359 urban adolescents aged between 9 and 16. The results showed that adolescents who had better self-esteem and control of emotions and behaviors had much higher level of perceived quality of life. Those who were overweight or obese, sleepy in the daytime, and not living with parents had worse quality of life compared with those who were not. In conclusion, psychosocial well-being should have a higher priority in the promotion of quality of life among Asian adolescents. Nevertheless, further studies are required to explore the differences in perceived quality of life between genders and countries.

Individual and socio-demographic determinants of suicide: An examination on WHO countries

BACKGROUND

Suicide cases have psychological, socio-economic and cultural aspects, and such cases may have catastrophic impacts in societies due to their outcomes.

PURPOSE

This study was aimed to reflect the effect of psychological, behavioral, socio-demographic and economic determinants on suicide.

METHODS

The Ordinary Least Square (OLS) Regression Analysis was utilized for the purposes of this study. Five models were established. In this contex, the first model includes the variables on psychological determinants; the second model with the variables on behavioral determinants; the third model with the variables on socio-demographic determinants; the fourth model with the variables on economic determinants and finally the fifth model with all of the independent variables.

CONCLUSION

According to the results, the variables of depression prevalence, alcohol consumption and unemployment rates had statistically significant effect on the suicide cases (p < .05). The study's outcomes are considered to contribute on the evidence-based policy development process.

Alcohol Consumption among the Elderly Citizens in Hungary and Serbia-Comparative Assessment

Studies in the alcohol consumption area are mostly related to the (ab)use of alcohol in young people. However, today, a growing number of researchers are emphasizing the clinical and public health significance of alcohol consumption in the elderly. In the WHO reports, harmful alcohol consumption is responsible for 5.3% of the global burden of the disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of alcohol consumption among men and women aged 55 and over in Serbia and Hungary, leveraging data from the 2013 Serbian National Health Survey and from the 2014 Hungarian National Health Survey. Respondents aged 55 and over were analysed based on logistic multivariate models. The prevalence of alcohol consumption was 41.5% and 62.5% in Serbia and Hungary, respectively. It was higher among men in both countries, but among women, it was significantly higher in Hungary than in Serbia. The statistically significant predictors affecting alcohol consumption in Serbia included age, education, well-being index, long-term disease and overall health status, with marital status being an additional factor among men. In Hungary, education and long-term disease affected alcohol consumption in both sexes, while age and employment were additional factors among women. In both countries for both sexes, younger age, more significantly than primary education and good health, was associated with a higher likelihood of alcohol consumption.

Quality of Life in Nursing Professionals: Burnout, Fatigue, and Compassion Satisfaction

The objective of this research was to analyse the quality of life of nursing professionals and its relationship with socio-demographic variables and the work context. A multi-centre, descriptive, cross-sectional design was used. Questionnaires were administered to 1521 nurses working in the Andalusian Public Health System (APHS), Spain. Professional quality of life (ProQOL v. IV) was measured, as well as several socio-demographic and work-related variables. To this end, a descriptive analysis and multiple exploratory analyses were conducted. The levels of compassion fatigue (CF) and burnout (BO) were elevated. The level of compassion satisfaction (CS) was below the estimated mean. Marital status, the healthcare setting, the area where the centre is located, and the work shift are variables associated with CF. According to the multiple linear regression model, the predicting factors for the occurrence of CF were being married, working in primary care, in urban areas, and working a morning/evening/night shift. The variables related to CS were the professional’s age, sex, marital status, the healthcare setting of the centre, the location of the centre, and the work shift. Specifically, according to the exploratory model, the factors that predicted a reduction in CS were working in primary care, in urban areas, and working a morning/evening/night shift. However, being divorced increased CS. BO was influenced only by the work shift. Nursing professionals are exposed to certain factors that may influence professional quality of life. Some of these factors are related to the work context.

Affect Path to Flood Protective Coping Behaviors using SEM based on A Survey in Shenzhen, China

The initial concept of flood control has gradually shifted to flood risk management which emphasizes more public participation. Therefore, understanding the public’s protective coping behavioral patterns to floods is significant, and can help improve the effectiveness of public participation and implementation of flood-mitigation measures. However, the quantitative effect of socio-demographic factors on flood risk perception and behaviors is not clear. In this study, the socio-demographic factors are included to explore the quantitative relationship with and the affect path to flood protective coping behaviors with socio-demographic factors are studied. Shenzhen City in China is chosen as the study area, which suffers frequent urban floods every year. Questionnaire surveys are conducted in five flood-prone communities there, and 339 valid questionnaires were collected. The correlations between flood risk perception, flood risk knowledge, flood risk attitude, socio-demographic factors, and protective coping behaviors are analyzed firstly. A structural equation model (SEM) about these factors is then established to verify the correctness of hypothetical paths and discover new paths. The results indicates that socio-demographic factors and flood risk perception do not have impacts on protective coping behaviors directly, but are mediated by flood risk knowledge and flood risk attitude. Flood risk attitude is an important factor that affects protective coping behaviors directly. Moreover, two affect paths to flood protective coping behaviors are proposed. The findings of Shenzhen city in this study can be extended to other cities with similar characteristics, providing support for conducting effective flood mitigation measures.

Predictors of Sleep Duration and Sleep Disturbance in Children of a Culturally Diverse Region in North-Eastern Greece

Background Aim: The aim of this study was to examine the sleep characteristics of children and explore associations with various socio-demographic factors in an area of Greece characterized by cultural diversity. Methods: A questionnaire about children's sleep habits had been distributed to parents of children who visited the pediatric outpatient clinic of University General Hospital of Alexandroupolis for a medical examination and to get a health certificate for participation in sports activities. Children with chronic health conditions were excluded. Results: In the study, 449 children (27.1% belonging to minorities) were included, aged 7.6 ± 2.9 years. Most of them (81.7%) slept after 10 p.m., with a mean nocturnal sleep duration of 9.4 ± 1.2 h. The most commonly reported disturbance was snoring (26.2%). Age and high educational level of the mother were both important determinants for sleeping late [OR 1.139 (1.033-1.255); p = 0.009 and OR 1.086 (1.004-1.175); p = 0.040, respectively]. The latter was also associated with an absence of any reported sleep disorder in children [OR 0.934 (0.877-0.994); p = 0.031]. A longer sleep duration was reported among Roma children (p = 0.022), which was more overt in girls (mean sleep duration 10.4 ± 1.6 h). In the Roma group also, the prevalence of sleep disorders was higher. Conclusion: Age progression and maternal educational level, along with cultural background, seem to be correlated with variations in the sleep characteristics of children in a culturally diverse population in Greece.

Quality of Life of Women with Breast Cancer and Socio-Demographic Factors

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer treatment is an aggressive therapy that affects the deterioration of women's quality of life (QOL) in many areas. Knowledge about factors that influence the assessment of the QOL is of particular importance. The aim of the study was to analyse areas of the quality of life of women with breast cancer, taking into account social and demographic factors.

METHODS

The research was carried included 324 women with breast cancer. The research was carried out using a diagnostic survey, the author's questionnaire and a standardized questionnaire for measuring the QOL of women treated for breast cancer, ie the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer, Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC) QLQ-C30 and QLQ-QLQ module BR23. Statistical analysis uses Statistica 10.0 software. The results were considered statistically significant when the calculated probability met the inequality of p.