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Kristensen ML, Waldstrøm M, Laursen ASD, Eriksen K, Ulrichsen SP, Hatch EE, Wise LA, Rothman KJ, Sørensen HT, Mikkelsen EM. Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and fecundability: a prospective cohort study. Hum Reprod 2024:deae139. [PMID: 38906838 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) associated with reduced fecundability, defined as the probability of conceiving per menstrual cycle? SUMMARY ANSWER Overall, we observed no meaningful association between CIN and fecundability, regardless of surgical status, although a recent diagnosis of moderate or severe CIN might be associated with slightly reduced fecundability for 2 years after diagnosis. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY About 15% of couples experience infertility. Few studies have examined the influence of CIN on fertility, and the results have been inconsistent. No study has investigated the association between fecundability and pathologist-reported CIN diagnoses, particularly with respect to the recency of the specific CIN diagnoses. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This prospective cohort study included 9586 women trying to conceive. The women were enrolled from 1 June 2007 to 3 February 2020. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Women were invited to complete a baseline questionnaire and bimonthly follow-up questionnaires for up to 12 months or until pregnancy occurred. Data on cervical cytologies and biopsies were retrieved from The National Pathology Registry (DNPR), which holds records of all cervical specimens examined in Denmark. Women were categorized based on their most severe diagnosis of CIN: no lesion, other cervical changes, mild CIN (CIN1), or moderate/severe CIN (CIN2+) with or without surgery. To investigate the association between CIN and fecundability, we computed fecundability ratios (FR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) using a proportional probabilities regression model. We adjusted for age at study entry, partner age, body mass index, smoking status, timing of intercourse, parity, education, number of sexual partners, and household income. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Compared with no lesion, the adjusted FRs (95% CI) for the association between CIN and fecundability were: other cervical lesions, 0.97 (0.91-1.04); CIN1, 1.04 (0.96-1.13); CIN2+ no surgery, 1.00 (0.82-1.22); and CIN2+ with surgery 0.99 (0.89-1.10). The FRs (95% CI) for a recent diagnosis (<2 years) of CIN were 0.98 (0.86-1.11) for other cervical lesions; 1.13 (0.99-1.29) for CIN1; 0.89 (0.62-1.26) for CIN2+ no surgery and 0.91 (0.75-1.10) for CIN2+ with surgery compared with the no lesion group. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION In the analyses, we adjusted for several covariates related to the women. However, we had little information on the male partners which could lead to unmeasured confounding as fecundability is a couple-based measure of fertility. Furthermore, a CIN diagnosis may not be constant as it may regress or progress spontaneously; therefore, it is possible that we have misclassified some women, especially women categorized as having normal cells or CIN1. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our results contribute important knowledge to women who are concerned about their future fertility after receiving a CIN diagnosis. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by The Danish Cancer Society (R167-A11036-17-S2). The overall cohorts were funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (R01-HD086742 and R03-HD094117). The authors report no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette L Kristensen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Marianne Waldstrøm
- Department of Pathology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anne Sofie D Laursen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Katrine Eriksen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Sinna P Ulrichsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Henrik T Sørensen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ellen M Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Yland JJ, Wesselink AK, Hernandez-Diaz S, Huybrechts K, Hatch EE, Wang TR, Savitz D, Kuohung W, Rothman KJ, Wise LA. Preconception contraceptive use and miscarriage: prospective cohort study. BMJ MEDICINE 2023; 2:e000569. [PMID: 37705685 PMCID: PMC10496668 DOI: 10.1136/bmjmed-2023-000569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Objectives To evaluate the association between preconception contraceptive use and miscarriage. Design Prospective cohort study. Setting Residents of the United States of America or Canada, recruited from 2013 until the end of 2022. Participants 13 460 female identified participants aged 21-45 years who were planning a pregnancy were included, of whom 8899 conceived. Participants reported data for contraceptive history, early pregnancy, miscarriage, and potential confounders during preconception and pregnancy. Main outcome measure Miscarriage, defined as pregnancy loss before 20 weeks of gestation. Results Preconception use of combined and progestin-only oral contraceptives, hormonal intrauterine devices, copper intrauterine devices, rings, implants, or natural methods was not associated with miscarriage compared with use of barrier methods. Participants who most recently used patch (incidence rate ratios 1.34 (95% confidence interval 0.81 to 2.21)) or injectable contraceptives (1.44 (0.99 to 2.12)) had higher rates of miscarriage compared with recent users of barrier methods, although results were imprecise due to the small numbers of participants who used patch and injectable contraceptives. Conclusions Use of most contraceptives before conception was not appreciably associated with miscarriage rate. Individuals who used patch and injectable contraceptives had higher rates of miscarriage relative to users of barrier methods, although these results were imprecise and residual confounding was possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer J Yland
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amelia K Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sonia Hernandez-Diaz
- Department of Epidemiology and CAUSALab, Harvard University T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Krista Huybrechts
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacoeconomics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tanran R Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David Savitz
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Wendy Kuohung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Jørgensen MD, Mikkelsen EM, Hatch EE, Rothman KJ, Wise LA, Sørensen HT, Laursen ASD. Socioeconomic status and fecundability in a Danish preconception cohort. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:1183-1193. [PMID: 37094974 PMCID: PMC10233268 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION To what extent is socioeconomic status (SES), as measured by educational attainment and household income, associated with fecundability in a cohort of Danish couples trying to conceive? SUMMARY ANSWER In this preconception cohort, lower educational attainment and lower household income were associated with lower fecundability after adjusting for potential confounders. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Approximately 15% of couples are affected by infertility. Socioeconomic disparities in health are well established. However, little is known about socioeconomic disparity and its relation to fertility. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This is a cohort study of Danish females aged 18-49 years who were trying to conceive between 2007 and 2021. Information was collected via baseline and bi-monthly follow-up questionnaires for 12 months or until reported pregnancy. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Overall, 10 475 participants contributed 38 629 menstrual cycles and 6554 pregnancies during a maximum of 12 cycles of follow-up. We used proportional probabilities regression models to estimate fecundability ratios (FRs) and 95% CIs. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Compared with upper tertiary education (highest level), fecundability was substantially lower for primary and secondary school (FR: 0.73, 95% CI: 0.62-0.85), upper secondary school (FR: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.79-1.00), vocational education (FR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.75-0.89), and lower tertiary education (FR: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.80-0.95), but not for middle tertiary education (FR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.93-1.03). Compared with a monthly household income of >65 000 DKK, fecundability was lower for household income <25 000 DKK (FR: 0.78, 95% CI: 0.72-0.85), 25 000-39 000 DKK (FR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.82-0.94), and 40 000-65 000 DKK (FR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.88-0.99). The results did not change appreciably after adjustment for potential confounders. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION We used educational attainment and household income as indicators of SES. However, SES is a complex concept, and these indicators may not reflect all aspects of SES. The study recruited couples planning to conceive, including the full spectrum of fertility from less fertile to highly fertile individuals. Our results may generalize to most couples who are trying to conceive. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our results are consistent with the literature indicating well-documented inequities in health across socioeconomic groups. The associations for income were surprisingly strong considering the Danish welfare state. These results indicate that the redistributive welfare system in Denmark does not suffice to eradicate inequities in reproductive health. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study was supported by the Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, and the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (RO1-HD086742, R21-HD050264, and R01-HD060680). The authors declare no conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Dahl Jørgensen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ellen M Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Institute, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Henrik Toft Sørensen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anne Sofie Dam Laursen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Willis SK, Wise LA, Laursen ASD, Wesselink AK, Mikkelsen EM, Tucker KL, Rothman KJ, Hatch EE. Glycemic Load, Dietary Fiber, Added Sugar, and Spontaneous Abortion in Two Preconception Cohorts. J Nutr 2023; 152:2818-2826. [PMID: 36057842 PMCID: PMC9839996 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxac202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spontaneous abortion (SAB)-pregnancy loss before the 20th week of gestation-has adverse psychological and physical sequelae. Some medical conditions known to affect insulin sensitivity, including polycystic ovary syndrome and diabetes, can affect the risk of SAB. No prior studies have examined glycemic load and incidence of SAB in populations without conditions known to affect insulin sensitivity. OBJECTIVES We prospectively evaluated the association between preconception glycemic load and intake of carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and added sugar and risk of SAB. METHODS During 2013-2020, we recruited pregnancy planners from Denmark (SnartForaeldre.dk; SF) and the United States and Canada (Pregnancy Study Online; PRESTO). Participants completed a baseline questionnaire and a cohort-specific FFQ evaluated for validity. We estimated preconception glycemic load and intake of carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and added sugar from individual foods and mixed recipes. We included 2238 SF and 4246 PRESTO participants who reported a pregnancy during the course of the study. SAB data were derived from questionnaires and population registries. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to estimate HRs and 95% CIs. RESULTS In the study population, 15% of SF participants and 22% of PRESTO participants experienced SAB. Across both cohorts, there was no appreciable association between glycemic load, carbohydrate quality, dietary fiber, or added sugar intake and SAB. Compared with daily mean glycemic load <110, the HR for women with daily mean glycemic load ≥130 was 0.76 (95% CI: 0.52, 1.10) in SF and 1.01 (95% CI: 0.86, 1.19) in PRESTO. CONCLUSIONS Diets with high glycemic load, carbohydrates, and added sugars were not consistently associated with risk of SAB in parallel analyses of 2 preconception cohort studies of women in North America and Denmark.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney K Willis
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anne Sofie Dam Laursen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Amelia K Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ellen M Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Katherine L Tucker
- Department of Biomedical and Nutritional Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Lund KH, Laursen ASD, Grønborg TK, Toft G, Jacobsen BH, Wang TR, Wesselink AK, Hatch EE, Sommer GJ, Eisenberg ML, Rothman KJ, Sørensen HT, Wise LA, Mikkelsen EM. Perceived stress and semen quality. Andrology 2023; 11:45-53. [PMID: 36151857 PMCID: PMC10092477 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychological stress is prevalent among reproductive-aged men. Assessment of semen quality for epidemiological studies is challenging as data collection is expensive and cumbersome, and studies evaluating the effect of perceived stress on semen quality are inconsistent. OBJECTIVE To examine the association between perceived stress and semen quality. MATERIAL AND METHODS We analyzed baseline data on 644 men (1,159 semen samples) from two prospective preconception cohort studies during 2015-2021: 592 in Pregnancy Study Online (PRESTO) and 52 in SnartForaeldre.dk (SF). At study entry, men aged ≥21 years (PRESTO) and ≥18 years (SF) trying to conceive without fertility treatment completed a questionnaire on reproductive and medical history, socio-demographics, lifestyle, and the 10-item version of the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS; interquartile range [IQR] of scores: 0-40). After enrollment (median weeks: 2.1, IQR: 1.3-3.7), men were invited to perform in-home semen testing, twice with 7-10 days between tests, using the Trak Male Fertility Testing System. Semen quality was characterized by semen volume, sperm concentration, and total sperm count. We fit generalized estimating equation linear regression models to estimate the percent difference in mean log-transformed semen parameters by four PSS groups (<10, 10-14, 15-19, ≥20), adjusting for potential confounders. RESULTS The median PSS score and IQR was 15 (10-19), and 136 men (21.1%) had a PSS score ≥20. Comparing men with PSS scores ≥20 with <10, the adjusted percent difference was -2.7 (95% CI: -9.8; 5.0) for semen volume, 6.8 (95% CI: -10.9; 28.1) for sperm concentration, and 4.3 (95% CI: -13.8; 26.2) for total sperm count. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that perceived stress is not materially associated with semen volume, sperm concentration, or total sperm count.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrine H Lund
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anne Sofie D Laursen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Therese K Grønborg
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Gunnar Toft
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Bjarke H Jacobsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Tanran R Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Amelia K Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Greg J Sommer
- Laboratory Corporation of America, Pleasanton, California, USA
| | | | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,RTI, Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Henrik T Sørensen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ellen M Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Weissert SJ, Mikkelsen EM, Jacobsen BH, Hatch EE, Wesselink AK, Wise LA, Rothman KJ, Sørensen HT, Laursen ASD. Organic food consumption and fecundability in a preconception cohort study of Danish couples trying to conceive. Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol 2023; 37:57-68. [PMID: 36071679 PMCID: PMC10087289 DOI: 10.1111/ppe.12924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about potential health effects of eating organic food in relation to reproduction. OBJECTIVE We examined associations between organic food consumption and fecundability. METHODS Data were derived from a preconception cohort study of Danish couples trying to conceive (SnartForaeldre.dk, SF). Participants completed a baseline questionnaire on socio-demographics, anthropometrics and lifestyle and a validated food-frequency questionnaire, which included questions on proportions of organic food consumed within six food groups. Participants were followed up with bimonthly questionnaires for up to 12 months or until pregnancy. Analyses were restricted to 2061 participants attempting pregnancy for ≤6 cycles at enrollment and 1303 with <3 cycles. Fecundability ratios (FRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated by proportional probabilities regression models adjusted for potential confounders including age, lifestyle and socioeconomic factors. Associations were examined for vegetables, fruits, cereals, dairy products, eggs and meat, separately, and for the overall pattern of organic food consumption (organic sum score). RESULTS The final analytic sample comprised 2069 participants. In the full cohort, organic food consumption was not meaningfully associated with fecundability. Among participants <3 cycles of pregnancy attempt at study entry (n = 1303), the FR was 1.11 (95% CI 0.93, 1.33) for the category 'less than half', for 'more than half' the FR was 1.17 (95% CI 0.99, 1.38) and for 'almost everything' the FR was 1.12 (95% CI 0.97, 1.28). CONCLUSION Higher consumption of organic foods was not meaningfully associated with fecundability, although slightly greater fecundability was seen among participants with <3 cycles of pregnancy attempt time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sissel Jessen Weissert
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ellen Margrethe Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Bjarke H Jacobsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Amelia K Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Henrik T Sørensen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anne Sofie Dam Laursen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Hoffmann SH, Paldam Folker A, Buskbjerg M, Paldam Folker M, Huber Jezek A, Lyngsø Svarta D, Nielsen Sølvhøj I, Thygesen L. Potential of Online Recruitment Among 15-25-Year Olds: Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e35874. [PMID: 35612877 PMCID: PMC9178448 DOI: 10.2196/35874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recruiting young people for health and intervention studies by traditional methods has become increasingly challenging. The widespread access to the internet may offer new strategies for online recruitment. Objective This study aims to assess the feasibility of online recruitment for a randomized controlled trial evaluating the effectiveness of Mindhelper, an online national youth mental health promotion service. The target group was young Danes aged 15-25 in need of mental health promotion. Methods Advertisements for recruitment were set up on Facebook and Instagram. Browser history was collected for a subsample of participants. We compared basic characteristics of participants who completed the baseline survey and those who did not, as well as of participants who completed the follow-up survey and those who were lost to follow-up. The significance of these differences was tested with the Pearson chi-square test. Results A total of 560 Danes aged 15-25 were recruited within 1 month (ie, had completed the baseline survey). Among these participants, 356 (63.6%) were at risk of developing depression or stress. The average advertisement price per participant completing the baseline questionnaire was 31 DKK (approximately €4 [US $4.2]). The follow-up survey was sent to 545 participants, of whom 318 (58.3%) completed the survey. No statistically significant differences were observed in baseline characteristics of participants who completed the follow-up and those who were lost to follow-up in terms of gender (P=.45), age (P=.35), occupation (P=.17), cohabitation (P=.90), mental well-being (P=.26), mental illness (P=.44; impact of the illness, P=.05), or use of the internet when having a hard time (P=.92). Conclusions We conclude that it is feasible to recruit young Danes online for a large-scale randomized controlled trial assessing the effectiveness of Mindhelper. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04650906; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04650906
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie Have Hoffmann
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna Paldam Folker
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mark Buskbjerg
- Centre for Telepsychiatry, Mental Health Services in the Region of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Marie Paldam Folker
- Centre for Telepsychiatry, Mental Health Services in the Region of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Andrea Huber Jezek
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Durita Lyngsø Svarta
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ida Nielsen Sølvhøj
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lau Thygesen
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Rissanen R. A snapshot of an eCohort: A comparison of the LifeGene population at baseline with the Swedish general population. Scand J Public Health 2022; 50:930-934. [PMID: 35365049 DOI: 10.1177/14034948211047776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
AIMS With access to technologies and internet around the globe, opportunities have been provided to contact and recruit participants at a more rapid pace, without face-to-face contact. However, 'eCohorts' may yield substantial volunteer bias. Few studies have compared eCohorts to general populations or samples where traditional research methods have been applied. To our knowledge, no prior analyses have reported on Swedish-based LifeGene eCohort, in comparison with the Swedish general population. The aim of this study was to compare the LifeGene eCohort at baseline with the Swedish general population. METHODS The LifeGene eCohort (n = 39,862) was compared with the general population in Sweden represented by weighted data from the Swedish Public Health agency and Statistics Sweden. LifeGene is a nationwide project with yearly data collection. Descriptive statistics were used to compare demographic characteristics, and self-reported data on diagnosis of depression. RESULTS The LifeGene eCohort overrepresented younger people, females, those with a higher socio-economic status, non-smokers and people with a diagnosis of depression. Surprisingly, the eCohort included a larger percentage of people born outside of Sweden compared to the general population, which is not in line with previous studies. CONCLUSION The results show that the participants in the LifeGene eCohort are different regarding demographic variables and some health indicators from the Swedish general population. Hence, if comparisons are made between the LifeGene eCohort and a general population it becomes important to be aware of the differences that might exist between the different cohort populations and how these might affect the estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritva Rissanen
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
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Cueto HT, Jacobsen BH, Laursen ASD, Riis AH, Hatch EE, Wise LA, Trolle E, Sørensen HT, Rothman KJ, Wesselink AK, Willis S, Johannesen BR, Mikkelsen EM. Dietary folate intake and fecundability in two preconception cohorts. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:828-837. [PMID: 35051293 PMCID: PMC8971647 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION To what extent is dietary folate intake and total folate intake (dietary and supplemental intakes) associated with fecundability, the per cycle probability of conception? SUMMARY ANSWER Preconception dietary folate intake was positively associated with fecundability in a monotonic pattern. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Supplemental folic acid has been associated with improved fertility, but little is known about the relation between dietary folate and fecundability. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A prospective cohort study including 9559 women trying to conceive without fertility treatment and enrolled in the period 2013-2020. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We used data from two internet-based prospective cohort studies of pregnancy planners from Denmark, where folic acid fortification is not performed (SnartForældre.dk (SF); n = 3755) and North America, where the food supply is fortified with folic acid (Pregnancy Study Online (PRESTO); n = 5804). Women contributed menstrual cycles at risk until they reported conception or experienced a censoring event. We used proportional probabilities regression models to compute fecundability ratios (FRs) and 95% CI, adjusting for potential confounders. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Compared with a dietary folate intake ≥400 µg/day, the adjusted FRs for women in SF were 0.92 (95% CI: 0.85-0.99) for intake 250-399 µg/day, and 0.80 (95% CI: 0.68-0.94) for intake of <250 µg/day. The corresponding FRs in PRESTO were 0.95 (95% CI: 0.89-1.01) and 0.81 (95% CI: 0.65-1.00). Compared with the highest level of total folate intake (diet folate ≥400 µg/day plus folic acid supplementation), in both cohorts fecundability was lowest among women with the lowest dietary intake <250 µg/day dietary folate and no supplementation (FR: 0.76, 95% CI: 0.59-0.98 [SF] and 0.49, 95% CI: 0.31-0.77 [PRESTO]). Further, total intake dietary folate <250 µg/day plus supplementation was associated with reduced fecundability for SF participants (FR; 0.79, 95% CI: 0.65-0.98) and for PRESTO participants (FR; 0.92, 95% CI: 0.72-1.16). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION It is unknown whether dietary folate and folic acid intake affect fecundability on its own or if there is an interaction with other micronutrients provided in healthy diet. Thus, the observed associations may not reflect dietary folate intake alone, but overall healthy diet. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Recommendations for preconception dietary folate intake and folic acid supplementation are of importance not only to prevent neural tube defects but also to enhance fecundability. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study was supported by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (R01-HD086742). The authors report no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi T Cueto
- The Danish Clinical Quality Program and National Clinical Registries (RKKP), Aarhus, Denmark,Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Bjarke H Jacobsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anne Sofie Dam Laursen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anders H Riis
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ellen Trolle
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Henrik Toft Sørensen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Amelia K Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sydney Willis
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Benjamin R Johannesen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ellen M Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark,Correspondence address. Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Olof Palmes Allé 43-45, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0158-7950
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Wesselink AK, Wang TR, Ketzel M, Mikkelsen EM, Brandt J, Khan J, Hertel O, Laursen ASD, Johannesen BR, Willis MD, Levy JI, Rothman KJ, Sørensen HT, Wise LA, Hatch EE. Air pollution and fecundability: Results from a Danish preconception cohort study. Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol 2022; 36:57-67. [PMID: 34890081 PMCID: PMC8712376 DOI: 10.1111/ppe.12832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Animal and epidemiologic studies indicate that air pollution may adversely affect fertility. Epidemiologic studies have been restricted largely to couples undergoing fertility treatment or have retrospectively ascertained time-to-pregnancy among pregnant women. OBJECTIVES We examined the association between residential ambient air pollution and fecundability, the per-cycle probability of conception, in a large preconception cohort of Danish pregnancy planners. METHODS During 2007-2018, we used the Internet to recruit and follow women who were trying to conceive without the use of fertility treatment. Participants completed an online baseline questionnaire eliciting socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and medical and reproductive histories and follow-up questionnaires every 8 weeks to ascertain pregnancy status. We determined concentrations of ambient nitrogen oxides (NOx ), nitrogen dioxide (NO2 ), carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O3 ), particulate matter <2.5 µm (PM2.5 ) and <10 µm (PM10 ), and sulphur dioxide (SO2 ) at each participant's residential address. We calculated average exposure during the year before baseline, during each menstrual cycle over follow-up and during the entire pregnancy attempt time. We used proportional probabilities regression models to estimate fecundability ratios (FRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), adjusting for potential confounders and co-pollutants. The analysis was restricted to the 10,183 participants who were trying to conceive for <12 cycles at study entry whose addresses could be geocoded. RESULTS During 12 months of follow-up, 73% of participants conceived. Higher concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 were associated with small reductions in fecundability. For example, the FRs for a one interquartile range (IQR) increase in PM2.5 (IQR = 3.2 µg/m3 ) and PM10 (IQR = 5.3 µg/m3 ) during each menstrual cycle were 0.93 (95% CI: 0.87, 0.99) and 0.91 (95% CI: 0.84, 0.99), respectively. Other air pollutants were not appreciably associated with fecundability. CONCLUSIONS In this preconception cohort study of Danish women, residential exposures to PM2.5 and PM10 were associated with reduced fecundability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia K. Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tanran R. Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Matthias Ketzel
- Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark
- Global Centre for Clean Air Research (GCARE), University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
| | - Ellen M. Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Brandt
- Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark
- iClimate, interdisciplinary Centre for Climate Change, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jibran Khan
- Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark
- Danish Big Data Centre for Environment and Health (BERTHA), Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Ole Hertel
- Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Anne Sofie D. Laursen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Benjamin R. Johannesen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mary D. Willis
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- School of Biological and Population Health Sciences, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Jonathan I. Levy
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth J. Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Research Triangle Institute, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Henrik T. Sørensen
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lauren A. Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth E. Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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11
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Wise LA, Wang TR, Wesselink AK, Willis SK, Chaiyasarikul A, Levinson JS, Rothman KJ, Hatch EE, Savitz DA. Accuracy of self-reported birth outcomes relative to birth certificate data in an Internet-based prospective cohort study. Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol 2021; 35:590-595. [PMID: 33956369 PMCID: PMC8380669 DOI: 10.1111/ppe.12769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The accuracy of birth outcome data provided by Internet-based cohort study participants has not been well studied. METHODS We compared self-reported data on birth characteristics in Pregnancy Study Online (PRESTO), an Internet-based prospective cohort study of North American pregnancy planners, with birth certificate data. At enrolment, participants were aged 21-45 years, attempting conception, and not using fertility treatment. Women completed online questionnaires during preconception, early and late pregnancy, and postpartum. We requested birth certificate data during 2014-2019 from seven health departments in states with the most participants. After restricting to singleton births, we assessed specificity, sensitivity, and agreement comparing self-reported data from postpartum questionnaires with birth certificate data for gestational age at delivery (GA) and birthweight (grams). Our primary measure of self-reported GA (weeks) was calculated as [280-(due date-birth date)]/7. We used log-binomial regression to assess predictors of agreement. RESULTS We linked 85% (771/909) of women in selected states. Median age of women was 30 years (range: 21-42), 84% had ≥ 16 years of education, nearly 96% were married, 12% had household incomes <$50 000, 32% were parous, and 85% identified as non-Hispanic White. Median recall interval was 6 months. Among those with self-reported data, 89% reported the same GA as the birth certificate and 98% reported GA within 1 week of the birth certificate. Self-report of preterm birth (GA < 37 weeks) agreed with information from birth certificates for 100% of women; sensitivity was 100%, and specificity was 99%. Self-reported low birthweight (<2500 grams) agreed with birth certificates for 93% of women; sensitivity and specificity were 93% and ≥99%, respectively. Predictors of poorer agreement included higher parity and longer pregnancy attempt time for GA, and lower education and longer recall interval for birthweight. CONCLUSION Self-reported data on GA and birthweight from an Internet-based cohort showed high accuracy compared with birth certificates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Massachusetts
| | - Tanran R. Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Massachusetts
| | - Amelia K. Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Massachusetts
| | - Sydney K. Willis
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Massachusetts
| | - Alina Chaiyasarikul
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Massachusetts
| | - Jessica S. Levinson
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Massachusetts
| | - Kenneth J. Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Massachusetts,RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Elizabeth E. Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Massachusetts
| | - David A. Savitz
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI
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Rothschild CW, Dublin S, Brown JS, Klasnja P, Herzig-Marx C, Reynolds JS, Wyner Z, Chambers C, Martin D. Use of a mobile app to capture supplemental health information during pregnancy: Implications for clinical research. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2021; 31:37-45. [PMID: 34216500 DOI: 10.1002/pds.5320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Mobile applications ("apps") may be efficient tools for improving the quality of clinical research among pregnant women, but evidence is sparse. We assess the feasibility and generalizability of a mobile app for capturing supplemental data during pregnancy. METHODS In 2017, we conducted a pilot study of the FDA MyStudies mobile app within a pregnant population identified through Kaiser Permanente Washington (KPWA), an integrated healthcare delivery system. We ascertained health conditions, medications, and substance use through app-based questionnaires. In a post-hoc analysis, we utilized electronic health records (EHR) to summarize sociodemographic and health characteristics of pilot participants and, for comparison, a pregnant population identified using similar methods. RESULTS Six percent (64/1070) of contacted women enrolled in the pilot study. Nearly half (23/53) reported taking medication for headaches and one-fourth for constipation (13/53) and nausea (12/53) each. Few instances (2/92) of over-the-counter medication use were identified in electronic dispensing records. One-quarter to one-third of participants with depression and anxiety/panic, respectively, reported recently discontinuing medications for these conditions. Eighty-eight percent of pilot participants reported White race (95%CI: 81-95%), versus 67% of the comparison population (N = 2065). More pilot participants filled ≥1 prescription for antianxiety medication (22% [95%CI: 13-35%]) and antidepressants (19% [95%CI 10-31%]) pre-pregnancy than the comparison population (10 and 9%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Mobile apps may be a feasible tool for capturing health data not routinely available in EHR. Pregnant women willing to use a mobile app for research may differ from the general pregnant population, but confirmation is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire W Rothschild
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Sascha Dublin
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Brown
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Predrag Klasnja
- Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Chayim Herzig-Marx
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Juliane S Reynolds
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Zachary Wyner
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christina Chambers
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - David Martin
- Office of Medical Policy, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
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Yland JJ, Bresnick KA, Hatch EE, Wesselink AK, Mikkelsen EM, Rothman KJ, Sørensen HT, Huybrechts KF, Wise LA. Pregravid contraceptive use and fecundability: prospective cohort study. BMJ 2020; 371:m3966. [PMID: 33177047 PMCID: PMC7656314 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.m3966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association between pregravid use of a variety of contraceptive methods and subsequent fecundability. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING Denmark and North America, 2007-19. PARTICIPANTS 17 954 women who had tried to conceive for up to six menstrual cycles at study entry. At baseline, participants reported their contraceptive histories, and personal, medical, and lifestyle characteristics. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Pregnancy, determined by bimonthly follow-up questionnaires for up to 12 months. RESULTS Approximately 38% (n=6735) of participants had recently used oral contraceptives, 13% (n=2398) had used long acting reversible contraceptive methods, and 31% (n=5497) had used barrier methods. Women who had recently stopped using oral contraceptives, the contraceptive ring, and some long acting reversible contraceptive methods experienced short term delays in return of fertility compared with users of barrier methods. Use of injectable contraceptives was associated with decreased fecundability compared with use of barrier methods (fecundability ratio 0.65; 95% confidence interval 0.47 to 0.89). Users of injectable contraceptives had the longest delay in return of normal fertility (five to eight menstrual cycles), followed by users of patch contraceptives (four cycles), users of oral and ring contraceptives (three cycles), and users of hormonal and copper intrauterine devices and implant contraceptives (two cycles). Lifetime length of use of hormonal contraceptive methods was not associated with fecundability. CONCLUSIONS Use of some hormonal contraceptive methods was associated with delays in return of fertility, with injectable contraceptives showing the longest delay. The findings indicated little or no lasting effect of long term use of these methods on fecundability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer J Yland
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - Kathryn A Bresnick
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - Amelia K Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - Ellen M Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
- RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Henrik T Sørensen
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Krista F Huybrechts
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacoeconomics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118 USA
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Wise LA, Willis SK, Mikkelsen EM, Wesselink AK, Sørensen HT, Rothman KJ, Tucker KL, Trolle E, Vinceti M, Hatch EE. The Association between Seafood Intake and Fecundability: Analysis from Two Prospective Studies. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12082276. [PMID: 32751290 PMCID: PMC7469023 DOI: 10.3390/nu12082276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Seafood is an important source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been associated with improved oocyte quality and embryo morphology in some studies. However, seafood is also a source of persistent organic pollutants and heavy metals, which may adversely affect fecundity. Previous studies of seafood intake and fecundity have generated inconsistent results. Methods: In two prospective cohort studies of 7836 female pregnancy planners from Denmark (Snart Foraeldre, n = 2709) and North America (PRESTO, n = 5127), we evaluated the association of dietary intake of total seafood and marine-sourced long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, and docosapentaenoic acid) with fecundability. Participants completed a baseline questionnaire on sociodemographics, behavioral factors, anthropometrics, and medical history, and a food frequency questionnaire. Pregnancy status was updated bimonthly for up to 12 months or until reported conception. We estimated fecundability ratios (FRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using proportional probabilities regression models, adjusted for energy intake and other potential confounders. We restricted analyses to women with ≤6 menstrual cycles of attempt time at enrollment. Results: Intake of total seafood or marine-sourced long-chain omega-3 fatty acids was not appreciably associated with fecundability in either cohort (≥200 vs. <50 g/week total seafood: FR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.79–1.10 in Snart Foraeldre; FR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.90–1.13 in PRESTO; marine fatty acids: ≥90th vs. <25th percentile: FR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.85–1.18 in Snart Foraeldre; FR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.86–1.09 in PRESTO). In PRESTO, where we collected additional data on seafood preparation, we observed an inverse association between fecundability and fried shellfish (≥10 g/week vs. none: FR = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.61–0.98), but not unfried shellfish (≥20 g/week vs. none: FR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.89–1.07); in Snart Foraeldre, there was no association with total shellfish intake. Conclusions: We found little association between seafood intake and fecundability overall, but greater intake of fried shellfish was associated with reduced fecundability among North American participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren A. Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (S.K.W.); (A.K.W.); (H.T.S.); (K.J.R.); (M.V.); (E.E.H.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +617-358-3424
| | - Sydney K. Willis
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (S.K.W.); (A.K.W.); (H.T.S.); (K.J.R.); (M.V.); (E.E.H.)
| | - Ellen M. Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Nordre Ringgade 1, Aarhus C, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark;
| | - Amelia K. Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (S.K.W.); (A.K.W.); (H.T.S.); (K.J.R.); (M.V.); (E.E.H.)
| | - Henrik Toft Sørensen
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (S.K.W.); (A.K.W.); (H.T.S.); (K.J.R.); (M.V.); (E.E.H.)
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Nordre Ringgade 1, Aarhus C, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark;
| | - Kenneth J. Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (S.K.W.); (A.K.W.); (H.T.S.); (K.J.R.); (M.V.); (E.E.H.)
- RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Katherine L. Tucker
- Department of Biomedical and Nutritional Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Pawtucket St, Lowell, MA 01854, USA;
| | - Ellen Trolle
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs Lyngby, Denmark;
| | - Marco Vinceti
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (S.K.W.); (A.K.W.); (H.T.S.); (K.J.R.); (M.V.); (E.E.H.)
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41121 Modena, Italy
| | - Elizabeth E. Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (S.K.W.); (A.K.W.); (H.T.S.); (K.J.R.); (M.V.); (E.E.H.)
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Willis SK, Wise LA, Wesselink AK, Rothman KJ, Mikkelsen EM, Tucker KL, Trolle E, Hatch EE. Glycemic load, dietary fiber, and added sugar and fecundability in 2 preconception cohorts. Am J Clin Nutr 2020; 112:27-38. [PMID: 31901163 PMCID: PMC7326597 DOI: 10.1093/ajcn/nqz312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glycemic load (GL) reflects the quantity and quality of carbohydrates in the diet; dietary fiber and added sugar are components of GL. Few epidemiologic studies have assessed the association between these dietary factors and fecundability. OBJECTIVE We prospectively evaluated the associations of GL, total carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and added sugar with fecundability. METHODS Snart Foraeldre (SF) and Pregnancy Study Online (PRESTO) are parallel web-based prospective preconception cohorts of couples attempting to conceive in Denmark and North America. At baseline, female participants completed a web-based questionnaire on demographic and lifestyle factors and a validated FFQ. We calculated GL, total carbohydrate intake, total dietary fiber, carbohydrate-to-fiber ratio, and added sugar based on reported frequencies for individual foods, standard recipes for mixed foods, and average serving sizes. The analysis included 2709 SF participants and 4268 PRESTO participants. We used proportional probabilities regression models to estimate fecundability ratios (FR) and 95% CIs. RESULTS Compared with an average daily GL of ≤100, FRs for an average daily GL of ≥141 were 0.89 (95% CI: 0.73, 1.08) in SF and 0.87 (95% CI: 0.77, 0.98) in PRESTO participants. Compared with consuming ≤16 g/d of dietary fiber, FRs for consuming ≥25 g/d were 0.99 (95% CI: 0.81, 1.22) in SF and 1.06 (95% CI: 0.94, 1.20) in PRESTO. Compared with a carbohydrate-to-fiber ratio of ≤8, FRs for a ratio of ≥13 were 0.86 (95% CI: 0.73, 1.01) in SF and 0.87 (95% CI: 0.78, 0.98) in PRESTO. Compared with ≤27 g/d of added sugar, FRs for ≥72 g/d were 0.87 (95% CI: 0.68, 1.10) in SF and 0.86 (95% CI: 0.75, 0.99) in PRESTO participants. CONCLUSIONS Among women attempting to conceive in Denmark and North America, diets high in GL, carbohydrate-to-fiber ratio, and added sugar were associated with modestly reduced fecundability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amelia K Wesselink
- Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, MA, USA,RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Ellen M Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Katherine L Tucker
- Biomedical and Nutritional Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, USA
| | - Ellen Trolle
- Division of Risk Assessment and Nutrition, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Søborg, Denmark
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, MA, USA
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Meehan A, Bundorf MK, Klimke R, Stults CD, Chan AS, Pun T, Tai-Seale M. Online Consent Enables a Randomized, Controlled Trial Testing a Patient-Centered Online Decision-Aid for Medicare Beneficiaries to Meet Recruitment Goal in Short Time Frame. J Patient Exp 2019; 7:12-15. [PMID: 32128365 PMCID: PMC7036687 DOI: 10.1177/2374373519827029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Online consenting allows potential participants of research projects to deliberate their participation at their own pace and may be more cost-effective than conventional approaches. Yet, online consenting is not widespread in health services research due partly to concerns about security, confidentiality, and lack of established processes. We report our use of online consenting to successfully enroll over 1185 Medicare beneficiaries in a short 9-week time frame for a research study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Meehan
- Palo Alto Medical Foundation Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Mary Kate Bundorf
- Department of Health Research and Policy, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Roman Klimke
- Department of Health Research and Policy, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Cheryl D Stults
- Palo Alto Medical Foundation Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Albert S Chan
- Palo Alto Medical Foundation Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA, USA.,Sutter Health, San Carlos, CA, USA
| | - Ting Pun
- Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute Patient Advisory Council, Portola Valley, CA, USA
| | - Ming Tai-Seale
- Palo Alto Medical Foundation Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA, USA.,University of California San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
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17
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Hahn KA, Wesselink AK, Wise LA, Mikkelsen EM, Cueto HT, Tucker KL, Vinceti M, Rothman KJ, Sorensen HT, Hatch EE. Iron Consumption Is Not Consistently Associated with Fecundability among North American and Danish Pregnancy Planners. J Nutr 2019; 149:1585-1595. [PMID: 31152673 PMCID: PMC6735943 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxz094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility is an important public health problem with few known modifiable risk factors. Dietary factors including folic acid have been associated with improved fertility, but the association between iron and fertility is understudied. One study among US nurses found a 40% lower risk of ovulatory infertility with higher intake of nonheme iron and iron supplements. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to determine the extent to which iron intake from diet and supplements reported on structured questionnaires is associated with fecundability. METHODS We conducted parallel analyses that used data from 2 prospective cohort studies of pregnancy planners from Denmark (Snart Foraeldre; n = 1693) and North America (PRESTO; n = 2969) during 2013-2018. Follow-up comprised menstrual cycles at risk until pregnancy or censoring for fertility treatment, stopped trying to conceive, withdrawal, loss to follow-up, or 12 cycles of attempt. We used proportional probabilities regression models to estimate fecundability ratios (FRs) and 95% CIs, adjusting for confounders. RESULTS We found little association between dietary heme iron intake and fecundability in either cohort. The FR for nonheme iron intake (≥11 mg/d compared with <9 mg/day) was 1.11 for Snart Foraeldre participants (95% CI: 0.92, 1.34) and 1.01 for PRESTO participants (95% CI: 0.89, 1.14). The FR for iron-containing supplements was 1.01 in Snart Foraeldre (95% CI: 0.90, 1.13) and 1.19 in PRESTO (95% CI: 1.03, 1.38). In PRESTO, but not Snart Foraeldre, stronger positive associations were found for nonheme iron intake and iron supplement use among women with heavy menses or short menstrual cycles. CONCLUSIONS Overall, dietary intake of iron was not consistently associated with fecundability, although there was some evidence for a positive association among women with risk factors for iron deficiency. We also found a small positive association between supplemental iron intake and fecundability among North American, but not Danish, pregnancy planners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen A Hahn
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Amelia K Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Ellen M Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Heidi T Cueto
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Katherine L Tucker
- Department of Clinical Laboratory and Nutritional Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, MA
| | - Marco Vinceti
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA,Public Health Section of the Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA,RTI Health Solutions, NC
| | | | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA,Address correspondence to EEH (E-mail: )
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18
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McManus DD, Trinquart L, Benjamin EJ, Manders ES, Fusco K, Jung LS, Spartano NL, Kheterpal V, Nowak C, Sardana M, Murabito JM. Design and Preliminary Findings From a New Electronic Cohort Embedded in the Framingham Heart Study. J Med Internet Res 2019; 21:e12143. [PMID: 30821691 PMCID: PMC6418484 DOI: 10.2196/12143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background New models of scalable population-based data collection that integrate digital and mobile health (mHealth) data are necessary. Objective The aim of this study was to describe a cardiovascular digital and mHealth electronic cohort (e-cohort) embedded in a traditional longitudinal cohort study, the Framingham Heart Study (FHS). Methods We invited eligible and consenting FHS Generation 3 and Omni participants to download the electronic Framingham Heart Study (eFHS) app onto their mobile phones and co-deployed a digital blood pressure (BP) cuff. Thereafter, participants were also offered a smartwatch (Apple Watch). Participants are invited to complete surveys through the eFHS app, to perform weekly BP measurements, and to wear the smartwatch daily. Results Up to July 2017, we enrolled 790 eFHS participants, representing 76% (790/1044) of potentially eligible FHS participants. eFHS participants were, on average, 53±8 years of age and 57% were women. A total of 85% (675/790) of eFHS participants completed all of the baseline survey and 59% (470/790) completed the 3-month survey. A total of 42% (241/573) and 76% (306/405) of eFHS participants adhered to weekly digital BP and heart rate (HR) uploads, respectively, over 12 weeks. Conclusions We have designed an e-cohort focused on identifying novel cardiovascular disease risk factors using a new smartphone app, a digital BP cuff, and a smartwatch. Despite minimal training and support, preliminary findings over a 3-month follow-up period show that uptake is high and adherence to periodic app-based surveys, weekly digital BP assessments, and smartwatch HR measures is acceptable.
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Affiliation(s)
- David D McManus
- Cardiology Division, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States.,Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States.,Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Ludovic Trinquart
- Boston University's and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's Framingham Heart Study, Framingham, MA, United States.,Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Emelia J Benjamin
- Boston University's and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's Framingham Heart Study, Framingham, MA, United States.,Section of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology and Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Emily S Manders
- Boston University's and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's Framingham Heart Study, Framingham, MA, United States
| | - Kelsey Fusco
- Boston University's and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's Framingham Heart Study, Framingham, MA, United States
| | - Lindsey S Jung
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Nicole L Spartano
- Boston University's and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's Framingham Heart Study, Framingham, MA, United States.,Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition, and Weight Management, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | | | - Mayank Sardana
- Cardiology Division, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Joanne M Murabito
- Boston University's and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's Framingham Heart Study, Framingham, MA, United States.,Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
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19
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Obtaining contextually relevant geographic data using Facebook recruitment in public health studies. Health Place 2018; 55:37-42. [PMID: 30466814 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2018.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Online participant recruitment for public health research studies has increased dramatically in recent years, particularly as traditional recruitment strategies have waned in efficiency. The emergence of e-epidemiology offers possibilities for reaching understudied populations as well as conducting large-scale studies. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional survey focused on self-reported neighborhood characteristics, perceived stress, and feasibility of obtaining work/residential addresses via online recruitment in St. Louis, Missouri, USA from February 2017 to December 2017. We report the process of using Facebook recruitment and demonstrate how this strategy can enhance collection of geospatial data to better understand context and spatial patterns of disease. RESULTS A total of 425 participants were recruited via Facebook advertisements. All participants reported their residential and work ZIP codes, though only 64.7% and 45.6% provided their complete residential and work street addresses, respectively. Those who reported their complete residential street addresses were more likely to be female (69.8% vs. 56.1% of males, χ2 = 7.89, 1 df, p = 0.005), though no differences were observed by race, age, or employment status. DISCUSSION These findings indicate that valuable location data can be successfully collected via Facebook recruitment - data that could potentially include residential history or prospective follow-up time or be combined with other emerging technologies for geographic data in order to better understand the context and the effects of place on health outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Facebook recruitment may be an underutilized resource for obtaining accurate geospatial and contextually relevant health data and should be considered as a means for finding participants due to the cost-effectiveness, efficiency and flexibility of this recruitment approach.
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20
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Goddard L, Bruinsma FJ, Giles GG. Informed consent and internet-based research in epidemiology. Med J Aust 2018; 208:424. [PMID: 29848242 DOI: 10.5694/mja17.01021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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21
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Response rate differences between web and alternative data collection methods for public health research: a systematic review of the literature. Int J Public Health 2018; 63:765-773. [DOI: 10.1007/s00038-018-1108-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
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22
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Nordon C, Bovagnet T, Belger M, Jimenez J, Olivares R, Chevrou-Severac H, Verdoux H, Haro JM, Abenhaim L, Karcher H. Trial exclusion criteria and their impact on the estimation of antipsychotic drugs effect: A case study using the SOHO database. Schizophr Res 2018; 193:146-153. [PMID: 28712965 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2017.07.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2016] [Revised: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore the impact upon estimation of drug effect as a result of applying exclusion criteria in randomized-controlled trials (RCT) measuring the efficacy of antipsychotics (AP) in schizophrenia. METHODS Three characteristics which may act as effect-modifiers of AP, while also common exclusion criteria in RCTs, were identified through literature review: schizophrenia duration, substance use disorder and poor adherence. The SOHO cohort was used to estimate the effect of initiating antipsychotic drugs "A", "B" or "C" (pooled) upon symptom evolution at 3months from baseline (CGI-S scale). "Estimated effectiveness" and "estimated efficacy" were drawn from the "SOHO" and "RCT-like" (patients with none of the above-listed exclusion criteria) samples, respectively. Effect-modification and impact of each exclusion criterion on AP effect estimates were explored using non-adjusted statistics. RESULTS The "SOHO sample" included 8250 patients initiating drug A, B or C at baseline, whose AP "estimated effectiveness" was ΔCGI-S=-0.78 (95% CI=-0.80, -0.76). The "RCT-like" sub-sample included 5348 (65%) patients whose AP "estimated efficacy" was ΔCGI-S=-0.73 (95% CI=-0.75, -0.70). Patients with short illness duration (≤3years since first AP; n=2436) experienced significant symptom improvement (ΔCGI-S=-0.89; 95%CI=-0.93, -0.85) compared to patients with duration >3years (mean ΔCGI-S=-0.73; 95%CI=-0.76, -0.71). Excluding patients with short illness duration led to a change in AP effect estimates but this was not the case for substance use disorder or poor adherence. CONCLUSION Using certain exclusion criteria in RCTs may impact the drug's effect estimate, particularly when exclusion criteria are AP effect-modifiers representing frequent characteristics among patients with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mark Belger
- Lilly Research Centre, Eli Lilly and Company Limited, Erl Wood Manor, Sunninghill Road, Windlesham, Surrey GU20 6PH, United Kingdom
| | - Javier Jimenez
- Medical Evidence and Observational Research, AstraZeneca, 1 Medimmune way, Gaithersburg, MD, United States
| | - Robert Olivares
- Global HEOR, Sanofi, 1 Avenue Pierre Brossolette, 91380 Chilly-Mazarin, France
| | - Helene Chevrou-Severac
- Takeda Pharmaceuticals International AG, Thurgauerstrasse 130, 8152 Glattpark-Opfikon, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Helene Verdoux
- Univ. Bordeaux 2 and INSERM U1219, 146 rue Léo Saignat, 33076 Bordeaux, France
| | - Josep Maria Haro
- Research and Development Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Fundació Sant Joan de Déu, Dr. Antoni Pujadas, 42, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
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23
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Smarr MM, Sapra KJ, Gemmill A, Kahn LG, Wise LA, Lynch CD, Factor-Litvak P, Mumford SL, Skakkebaek NE, Slama R, Lobdell DT, Stanford JB, Jensen TK, Boyle EH, Eisenberg ML, Turek PJ, Sundaram R, Thoma ME, Buck Louis GM. Is human fecundity changing? A discussion of research and data gaps precluding us from having an answer. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:499-504. [PMID: 28137753 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Fecundity, the biologic capacity to reproduce, is essential for the health of individuals and is, therefore, fundamental for understanding human health at the population level. Given the absence of a population (bio)marker, fecundity is assessed indirectly by various individual-based (e.g. semen quality, ovulation) or couple-based (e.g. time-to-pregnancy) endpoints. Population monitoring of fecundity is challenging, and often defaults to relying on rates of births (fertility) or adverse outcomes such as genitourinary malformations and reproductive site cancers. In light of reported declines in semen quality and fertility rates in some global regions among other changes, the question as to whether human fecundity is changing needs investigation. We review existing data and novel methodological approaches aimed at answering this question from a transdisciplinary perspective. The existing literature is insufficient for answering this question; we provide an overview of currently available resources and novel methods suitable for delineating temporal patterns in human fecundity in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa M Smarr
- Office of the Director, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, 6710B Rockledge Dr. Room 3131A, Bethesda, MD 20829, USA
| | - Katherine J Sapra
- Office of the Director, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, 6710B Rockledge Dr. Room 3131A, Bethesda, MD 20829, USA
| | - Alison Gemmill
- Department of Demography, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Linda G Kahn
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Courtney D Lynch
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43212, USA
| | - Pam Factor-Litvak
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Sunni L Mumford
- Epidemiology Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD 20829, USA
| | - Niels E Skakkebaek
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and EDMaRC, University of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rémy Slama
- Team of Environmental Epidemiology, Inserm, CNRS, University Grenoble Alpes, IAB Joint Research Center, F-38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Danelle T Lobdell
- Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Joseph B Stanford
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
| | - Tina Kold Jensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and EDMaRC, University of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Elizabeth Heger Boyle
- Department of Sociology and College of Law, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Michael L Eisenberg
- Department of Urology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | | | - Rajeshwari Sundaram
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD 20829, USA
| | - Marie E Thoma
- Department of Family Science, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Germaine M Buck Louis
- Office of the Director, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, 6710B Rockledge Dr. Room 3131A, Bethesda, MD 20829, USA
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24
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Wise LA, Wesselink AK, Tucker KL, Saklani S, Mikkelsen EM, Cueto H, Riis AH, Trolle E, McKinnon CJ, Hahn KA, Rothman KJ, Sørensen HT, Hatch EE. Dietary Fat Intake and Fecundability in 2 Preconception Cohort Studies. Am J Epidemiol 2018; 187:60-74. [PMID: 28595290 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwx204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The association between dietary fat and fertility is not well studied. We evaluated intakes of total fat, saturated fatty acids, monounsaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, trans fatty acids (TFA), ω-3 fatty acids, and ω-6 fatty acids in relation to fecundability in Danish and North American preconception cohort studies. Women who were attempting to become pregnant completed a validated food frequency questionnaire at baseline. Pregnancy status was updated bimonthly for 12 months or until pregnancy. Fecundability ratios (FR) and 95% confidence intervals were estimated using multivariable proportional probabilities regression. Intakes of total fat and saturated, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and ω-6 fatty acids were not appreciably associated with fecundability. TFA intake was associated with reduced fecundability in North American women (for the fourth quartile vs. the first, FR = 0.86, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.71, 1.04) but not Danish women (for the fourth quartile vs. the first, FR = 1.04, 95% CI: 0.86, 1.25), though intake among Danish women was low. In North America, ω-3 fatty acid intake was associated with higher fecundability, but there was no dose-response relationship (among persons who did not use fish oil supplements: for the fourth quartile vs. the first, FR = 1.40, 95% CI: 1.13, 1.73); no association was found in Danish women, among whom low intake was rare. In the present study, high TFA intake and low ω-3 fatty acid intake were associated with reduced fecundity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Amelia K Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Katherine L Tucker
- Department of Clinical Laboratory and Nutritional Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts
| | - Shilpa Saklani
- Department of Clinical Laboratory and Nutritional Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts
| | - Ellen M Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Heidi Cueto
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anders H Riis
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ellen Trolle
- Division of Risk Assessment and Nutrition, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Søborg, Denmark
| | - Craig J McKinnon
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kristen A Hahn
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
- RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Henrik Toft Sørensen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
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25
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Nordon C, Battin C, Verdoux H, Haro JM, Belger M, Abenhaim L, van Staa TP. The use of random-effects models to identify health care center-related characteristics modifying the effect of antipsychotic drugs. Clin Epidemiol 2017; 9:689-698. [PMID: 29276411 PMCID: PMC5733906 DOI: 10.2147/clep.s145353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose A case study was conducted, exploring methods to identify drugs effects modifiers, at a health care center level. Patients and methods Data were drawn from the Schizophrenia Outpatient Health Outcome cohort, including hierarchical information on 6641 patients, recruited from 899 health care centers from across ten European countries. Center-level characteristics included the following: psychiatrist’s gender, age, length of practice experience, practice setting and type, countries’ Healthcare System Efficiency score, and psychiatrist density in the country. Mixed multivariable linear regression models were used: 1) to estimate antipsychotic drugs’ effectiveness (defined as the association between patients’ outcome at 3 months – dependent variable, continuous – and antipsychotic drug initiation at baseline – drug A vs other antipsychotic drug); 2) to estimate the similarity between clustered data (using the intra-cluster correlation coefficient); and 3) to explore antipsychotic drug effects modification by center-related characteristics (using the addition of an interaction term). Results About 23% of the variance found for patients’ outcome was explained by unmeasured confounding at a center level. Psychiatrists’ practice experience was found to be associated with patient outcomes (p=0.04) and modified the relative effect of “drug A” (p<0.001), independent of center- or patient-related characteristics. Conclusion Mixed models may be useful to explore how center-related characteristics modify drugs’ effect estimates, but require numerous assumptions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Helene Verdoux
- Population Health Research Center, Team Pharmaco-Epidemiology, UMR 1219, Bordeaux-2 University, INSERM, Bordeaux, France
| | - Josef Maria Haro
- Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Deu, CIBERSAM, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mark Belger
- Eli Lilly and Company Limited, Erl Wood Manor, Windlesham
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26
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Messerlian C, Basso O. Cohort studies in the context of obstetric and gynecologic research: a methodologic overview. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2017; 97:371-379. [DOI: 10.1111/aogs.13272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Messerlian
- Department of Environmental Health; Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health; Boston MA USA
| | - Olga Basso
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology; Royal Victoria Hospital; Research Institute of McGill University Health Center; Canada
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health; McGill University; Montreal Canada
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27
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Rosetta L, Thalabard JC, Tanniou J, Ducot B, Maitrot-Mantelet L, Rousset-Jablonski C, Bohet A, Bouyer J, Chimènes A, Slama R. Ovulatory status and menstrual cycle duration assessed by self-collection of urine on pH strips in a population-based sample of French women not using hormonal contraception. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2017; 22:450-458. [DOI: 10.1080/13625187.2017.1410881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jean-Christophe Thalabard
- MAP5 UMR CNRS 8145, Paris Descartes University, PRES Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Endocrine- Gynaecology Unit, PR1- Hôpital Cochin, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Julien Tanniou
- MAP5 UMR CNRS 8145, Paris Descartes University, PRES Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Béatrice Ducot
- Univ. Paris-Sud, UVSQ, INSERM U1018, Centre de recherche en Epidemiologie et Sante des Populations, Villejuif, France
| | | | - Christine Rousset-Jablonski
- Endocrine- Gynaecology Unit, PR1- Hôpital Cochin, APHP, Paris, France
- Department of Surgery and Gynaecology, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Aline Bohet
- Univ. Paris-Sud, UVSQ, INSERM U1018, Centre de recherche en Epidemiologie et Sante des Populations, Villejuif, France
| | - Jean Bouyer
- Univ. Paris-Sud, UVSQ, INSERM U1018, Centre de recherche en Epidemiologie et Sante des Populations, Villejuif, France
| | | | - Rémy Slama
- Team of Environmental Epidemiology applied to Reproduction and Respiratory Health, Inserm, CNRS, University Grenoble Alpes, IAB (Institute for Advanced Biosciences), Grenoble, France
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28
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Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE A comparison of sick leave in pregnancy between countries is difficult as most studies have been conducted in single countries in Scandinavia. The objective of this study was to explore patterns of and reasons for sick leave during pregnancy on a multinational level, focusing on medication use but also differences in sick leave policies. DESIGN AND SETTING Cross-sectional, web-based study in 12 European countries from October 2011 to February 2012. Data were collected via an electronic questionnaire. PARTICIPANTS Pregnant women and mothers of children under the age of 1 year. PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURE Sick leave prevalence in pregnancy. RESULTS Of 6686 women included, 3385 (50.6%) had been on sick leave during pregnancy. The rates of sick leave varied across countries, ranging from 31.7%-34.8% in Sweden and the UK to 62.4%-71.3% in Norway, Serbia, Croatia and Poland. The most common reasons for being on sick leave were pregnancy complications (26.5%); pain in the neck, back or pelvic girdle (16.2%); and nausea and vomiting (NVP, 16.0%). Women using medications for acute illnesses were more likely to be on sick leave than their non-medicated counterparts, while an opposite trend was observed for women with chronic disorders, where non-medicated women were more likely to be on sick leave. Women from countries with 'low' sick leave policies were less likely to have extensions of sick leaves compared with women from countries with 'medium' policies (adjusted OR 0.63, 95% CI 0.49 to 0.82). CONCLUSION The rates of sick leave in pregnancy vary greatly across European countries. Women using medications were more likely to be on sick leave, especially for acute illnesses. The differences in sick leave patterns across countries only partially reflected differences in sick leave policies, which implies that sick leave in pregnancy is also affected by other national differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bich Thuy Truong
- PharmacoEpidemiology and Drug Safety Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Angela Lupattelli
- PharmacoEpidemiology and Drug Safety Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Petter Kristensen
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology, National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
- Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology Research Group, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Hedvig Nordeng
- PharmacoEpidemiology and Drug Safety Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Child Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
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Volunteer Participation in the Health eHeart Study: A Comparison with the US Population. Sci Rep 2017; 7:1956. [PMID: 28512303 PMCID: PMC5434039 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-02232-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct volunteer "eCohort" recruitment can be an efficient way of recruiting large numbers of participants, but there is potential for volunteer bias. We compared self-selected participants in the Health eHeart Study to participants in the National Health And Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2013-14, a cross-sectional survey of the US population. Compared with the US population (represented by 5,769 NHANES participants), the 12,280 Health eHeart participants with complete survey data were more likely to be female (adjusted odds ratio (ORadj) = 3.1; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.9-3.5); less likely to be Black, Hispanic, or Asian versus White/non-Hispanic (ORadj's = 0.4-0.6, p < 0.01); more likely to be college-educated (ORadj = 15.8 (13-19) versus ≤high school); more likely to have cardiovascular diseases and risk factors (ORadj's = 1.1-2.8, p < 0.05) except diabetes (ORadj = 0.8 (0.7-0.9); more likely to be in excellent general health (ORadj = 0.6 (0.5-0.8) for "Good" versus "Excellent"); and less likely to be current smokers (ORadj = 0.3 (0.3-0.4)). While most self-selection patterns held for Health eHeart users of Bluetooth blood pressure cuff technology, there were some striking differences; for example, the gender ratio was reversed (ORadj = 0.6 (0.4-0.7) for female gender). Volunteer participation in this cardiovascular health-focused eCohort was not uniform among US adults nor for different components of the study.
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Rosofsky A, Janulewicz P, Thayer KA, McClean M, Wise LA, Calafat AM, Mikkelsen EM, Taylor KW, Hatch EE. Exposure to multiple chemicals in a cohort of reproductive-aged Danish women. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2017; 154:73-85. [PMID: 28039828 PMCID: PMC5328929 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2016.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2016] [Revised: 11/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current exposure assessment research does not sufficiently address multi-pollutant exposure and their correlations in human media. Understanding the extent of chemical exposure in reproductive-aged women is of particular concern due to the potential for in utero exposure and fetal susceptibility. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to characterize concentrations of chemical biomarkers during preconception and examine correlations between and within chemical classes. METHODS We examined concentrations of 135 biomarkers from 16 chemical classes in blood and urine from 73 women aged 18-40 enrolled in Snart Foraeldre/Milieu, a prospective cohort study of pregnancy planners in Denmark (2011-2014). We compared biomarker concentrations with United States similarly-aged, non-pregnant women who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Environmental Survey (NHANES) and with other international biomonitoring studies. We performed principal component analysis to examine biomarker correlations. RESULTS The mean number of biomarkers detected in the population was 92 (range: 60-108). The most commonly detected chemical classes were phthalates, metals, phytoestrogens and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Except blood mercury, urinary barium and enterolactone, geometric means were higher in women from NHANES. Chemical classes measured in urine generally did not load on a single component, suggesting high between-class correlation among urinary biomarkers, while there is high within-class correlation for biomarkers measured in serum and blood. CONCLUSIONS We identified ubiquitous exposure to multiple chemical classes in reproductive-aged Danish women, supporting the need for more research on chemical mixtures during preconception and early pregnancy. Inter- and intra-class correlation between measured biomarkers may reflect common exposure sources, specific lifestyle factors or shared metabolism pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Rosofsky
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Patricia Janulewicz
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kristina A Thayer
- Office of Health Assessment and Translation, Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institute for Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Michael McClean
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Antonia M Calafat
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, CDC, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ellen M Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kyla W Taylor
- Office of Health Assessment and Translation, Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institute for Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Leach LS, Butterworth P, Poyser C, Batterham PJ, Farrer LM. Online Recruitment: Feasibility, Cost, and Representativeness in a Study of Postpartum Women. J Med Internet Res 2017; 19:e61. [PMID: 28274906 PMCID: PMC5362693 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.5745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2016] [Revised: 08/18/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Online recruitment is feasible, low-cost, and can provide high-quality epidemiological data. However, little is known about the feasibility of recruiting postpartum women online, or sample representativeness. Objective The current study investigates the feasibility of recruiting a population of postpartum women online for health research and examines sample representativeness. Methods Two samples of postpartum women were compared: those recruited online as participants in a brief survey of new mothers (n=1083) and those recruited face-to-face as part of a nationally representative study (n=579). Sociodemographic, general health, and mental health characteristics were compared between the two samples. Results Obtaining a sample of postpartum women online for health research was highly efficient and low-cost. The online sample over-represented those who were younger (aged 25-29 years), were in a de facto relationship, had higher levels of education, spoke only English at home, and were first-time mothers. Members of the online sample were significantly more likely to have poor self-rated health and poor mental health than the nationally representative sample. Health differences remained after adjusting for sociodemographic differences. Conclusions Potential exists for feasible and low-cost e-epidemiological research with postpartum populations; however, researchers should consider the potential influence of sample nonrepresentativeness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liana S Leach
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Peter Butterworth
- Centre for Mental Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Carmel Poyser
- Centre for Mental Health Research, Research School of Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Philip J Batterham
- Centre for Mental Health Research, Research School of Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Louise M Farrer
- Centre for Mental Health Research, Research School of Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
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Christensen T, Riis AH, Hatch EE, Wise LA, Nielsen MG, Rothman KJ, Sørensen HT, Mikkelsen EM. Costs and Efficiency of Online and Offline Recruitment Methods: A Web-Based Cohort Study. J Med Internet Res 2017; 19:e58. [PMID: 28249833 PMCID: PMC5352857 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.6716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 01/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Internet is widely used to conduct research studies on health issues. Many different methods are used to recruit participants for such studies, but little is known about how various recruitment methods compare in terms of efficiency and costs. OBJECTIVE The aim of our study was to compare online and offline recruitment methods for Internet-based studies in terms of efficiency (number of recruited participants) and costs per participant. METHODS We employed several online and offline recruitment methods to enroll 18- to 45-year-old women in an Internet-based Danish prospective cohort study on fertility. Offline methods included press releases, posters, and flyers. Online methods comprised advertisements placed on five different websites, including Facebook and Netdoktor.dk. We defined seven categories of mutually exclusive recruitment methods and used electronic tracking via unique Uniform Resource Locator (URL) and self-reported data to identify the recruitment method for each participant. For each method, we calculated the average cost per participant and efficiency, that is, the total number of recruited participants. RESULTS We recruited 8252 study participants. Of these, 534 were excluded as they could not be assigned to a specific recruitment method. The final study population included 7724 participants, of whom 803 (10.4%) were recruited by offline methods, 3985 (51.6%) by online methods, 2382 (30.8%) by online methods not initiated by us, and 554 (7.2%) by other methods. Overall, the average cost per participant was €6.22 for online methods initiated by us versus €9.06 for offline methods. Costs per participant ranged from €2.74 to €105.53 for online methods and from €0 to €67.50 for offline methods. Lowest average costs per participant were for those recruited from Netdoktor.dk (€2.99) and from Facebook (€3.44). CONCLUSIONS In our Internet-based cohort study, online recruitment methods were superior to offline methods in terms of efficiency (total number of participants enrolled). The average cost per recruited participant was also lower for online than for offline methods, although costs varied greatly among both online and offline recruitment methods. We observed a decrease in the efficiency of some online recruitment methods over time, suggesting that it may be optimal to adopt multiple online methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Christensen
- Aarhus University Hospital, Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Anders H Riis
- Aarhus University Hospital, Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Marie G Nielsen
- Aarhus University, Research Unit for General Practice, Department of Public Health, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, MA, United States
- RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Henrik Toft Sørensen
- Aarhus University Hospital, Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Ellen M Mikkelsen
- Aarhus University Hospital, Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus N, Denmark
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Wise LA, Wesselink AK, Mikkelsen EM, Cueto H, Hahn KA, Rothman KJ, Tucker KL, Sørensen HT, Hatch EE. Dairy intake and fecundability in 2 preconception cohort studies. Am J Clin Nutr 2017; 105:100-110. [PMID: 27903519 PMCID: PMC5183724 DOI: 10.3945/ajcn.116.138404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Animal studies have shown that a high intake of galactose, a breakdown product of lactose, increases ovarian toxicity. Few epidemiologic studies, to our knowledge, have examined the association between dairy intake and fertility, and they have had conflicting findings. OBJECTIVE We prospectively evaluated dairy intake in relation to fecundability among women who were planning for pregnancy. DESIGN Data were derived from preconception cohort studies in Denmark (Snart Foraeldre) and North America [PRESTO (Pregnancy Study Online)] in which women completed a validated food-frequency questionnaire 10 d after enrollment. The dietary intake of dairy foods and their constituents was calculated based on reported frequencies, mean serving sizes, and standard recipes for mixed foods. Outcome data were updated every 8 wk for 12 mo or until reported conception. Analyses were restricted to 2426 women attempting pregnancy for ≤6 cycles at study entry. Fecundability ratios (FRs) and 95% CIs were estimated with the use of proportional probabilities regression models adjusted for potential confounders. RESULTS FRs for total dairy intake (≥18 compared with <7 servings/wk) were 1.37 (95% CI: 1.05, 1.78) among 1126 Snart Foraeldre participants and 1.04 (95% CI: 0.78, 1.38) among 1300 PRESTO participants (pooled FR: 1.11; 95% CI: 0.94, 1.31). The elevated FR for total dairy intake among Snart Foraeldre participants was limited to milk consumption and found only among women aged <30 y. There was no clear association between low- or high-fat dairy intake and fecundability in either cohort. Although there was little evidence of an association between dietary intake of calcium, potassium, magnesium, or vitamin D and fecundability, a greater consumption of phosphorus and lactose was associated with slightly higher fecundability in both cohorts. CONCLUSIONS Associations between dairy intake and fecundability were generally small and inconsistent across cohorts. Our findings do not support the hypotheses that a greater consumption of high-fat dairy improves fertility or that a greater consumption of lactose or low-fat dairy harms fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA;
| | - Amelia K Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Ellen M Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Heidi Cueto
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kristen A Hahn
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA;,RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC; and
| | - Katherine L Tucker
- Department of Clinical Laboratory and Nutritional Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA
| | - Henrik Toft Sørensen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
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Kesse-Guyot E, Assmann K, Andreeva V, Castetbon K, Méjean C, Touvier M, Salanave B, Deschamps V, Péneau S, Fezeu L, Julia C, Allès B, Galan P, Hercberg S. Lessons Learned From Methodological Validation Research in E-Epidemiology. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2016; 2:e160. [PMID: 27756715 PMCID: PMC5087563 DOI: 10.2196/publichealth.5880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2016] [Revised: 08/25/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Traditional epidemiological research methods exhibit limitations leading to high logistics, human, and financial burden. The continued development of innovative digital tools has the potential to overcome many of the existing methodological issues. Nonetheless, Web-based studies remain relatively uncommon, partly due to persistent concerns about validity and generalizability. Objective The objective of this viewpoint is to summarize findings from methodological studies carried out in the NutriNet-Santé study, a French Web-based cohort study. Methods On the basis of the previous findings from the NutriNet-Santé e-cohort (>150,000 participants are currently included), we synthesized e-epidemiological knowledge on sample representativeness, advantageous recruitment strategies, and data quality. Results Overall, the reported findings support the usefulness of Web-based studies in overcoming common methodological deficiencies in epidemiological research, in particular with regard to data quality (eg, the concordance for body mass index [BMI] classification was 93%), reduced social desirability bias, and access to a wide range of participant profiles, including the hard-to-reach subgroups such as young (12.30% [15,118/122,912], <25 years) and old people (6.60% [8112/122,912], ≥65 years), unemployed or homemaker (12.60% [15,487/122,912]), and low educated (38.50% [47,312/122,912]) people. However, some selection bias remained (78.00% (95,871/122,912) of the participants were women, and 61.50% (75,590/122,912) had postsecondary education), which is an inherent aspect of cohort study inclusion; other specific types of bias may also have occurred. Conclusions Given the rapidly growing access to the Internet across social strata, the recruitment of participants with diverse socioeconomic profiles and health risk exposures was highly feasible. Continued efforts concerning the identification of specific biases in e-cohorts and the collection of comprehensive and valid data are still needed. This summary of methodological findings from the NutriNet-Santé cohort may help researchers in the development of the next generation of high-quality Web-based epidemiological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuelle Kesse-Guyot
- Équipe de Recherche en Epidémiologie Nutritionnelle (EREN), Centre de Recherche en Epidémiologie et Statistiques, COMUE Sorbonne Paris Cité, Inserm (U1153), Inra (U1125), Cnam, Université Paris 13, Bobigny, France.
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Abstract
Selection bias is a potential concern in all epidemiologic studies, but it is usually difficult to assess. Recently, concerns have been raised that internet-based prospective cohort studies may be particularly prone to selection bias. Although use of the internet is efficient and facilitates recruitment of subjects that are otherwise difficult to enroll, any compromise in internal validity would be of great concern. Few studies have evaluated selection bias in internet-based prospective cohort studies. Using data from the Danish Medical Birth Registry from 2008 to 2012, we compared six well-known perinatal associations (e.g., smoking and birth weight) in an internet-based preconception cohort (Snart Gravid n = 4,801) with the total population of singleton live births in the registry (n = 239,791). We used log-binomial models to estimate risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each association. We found that most results in both populations were very similar. For example, maternal obesity was associated with an increased risk of delivering a macrosomic infant in Snart Gravid (RR = 1.5; 95% CI: 1.2, 1.7) and the total population (RR = 1.5; 95% CI: 1.45, 1.53), and maternal smoking of >10 cigarettes per day was associated with a higher risk of low birth weight (RR = 2.7; 95% CI: 1.2, 5.9 vs. RR = 2.9; 95% CI: 2.6, 3.1) in Snart Gravid and the total population, respectively. We cannot be certain that our results would apply to other associations or different populations. Nevertheless, our results suggest that recruitment of reproductive aged women via the internet may be no more prone to selection bias than traditional methods of recruitment.
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Sharma V, Holmes JH, Sarkar IN. Identifying Complementary and Alternative Medicine Usage Information from Internet Resources. A Systematic Review. Methods Inf Med 2016; 55:322-32. [PMID: 27352304 PMCID: PMC4975632 DOI: 10.3414/me15-01-0154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2015] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Identify and highlight research issues and methods used in studying Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) information needs, access, and exchange over the Internet. METHODS A literature search was conducted using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines from PubMed to identify articles that have studied Internet use in the CAM context. Additional searches were conducted at Nature.com and Google Scholar. RESULTS The Internet provides a major medium for attaining CAM information and can also serve as an avenue for conducting CAM related surveys. Based on the literature analyzed in this review, there seems to be significant interest in developing methodologies for identifying CAM treatments, including the analysis of search query data and social media platform discussions. Several studies have also underscored the challenges in developing approaches for identifying the reliability of CAM-related information on the Internet, which may not be supported with reliable sources. The overall findings of this review suggest that there are opportunities for developing approaches for making available accurate information and developing ways to restrict the spread and sale of potentially harmful CAM products and information. CONCLUSIONS Advances in Internet research are yet to be used in context of understanding CAM prevalence and perspectives. Such approaches may provide valuable insights into the current trends and needs in context of CAM use and spread.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Indra N Sarkar
- Indra Neil Sarkar, Ph.D., MLIS, Center for Biomedical Informatics, Brown University, Box G-R, Providence, RI 02912, USA, E-mail:
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Tassiopoulos K, Patel K, Alperen J, Kacanek D, Ellis A, Berman C, Allison SM, Hazra R, Barr E, Cantos K, Siminski S, Massagli M, Bauermeister J, Siddiqui DQ, Puga A, Van Dyke R, Seage GR. Following young people with perinatal HIV infection from adolescence into adulthood: the protocol for PHACS AMP Up, a prospective cohort study. BMJ Open 2016; 6:e011396. [PMID: 27288383 PMCID: PMC4908871 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-011396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The first generation of adolescents born with HIV infection has reached young adulthood due to advances in treatment. It is important to continue follow-up of these individuals to assess their long-term medical, behavioural and mental health and ability to successfully transition to adulthood while coping with a chronic, potentially stigmatising condition. To accomplish this, and to maintain their interest in long-term research participation, we need to accommodate the changing lifestyles and interests of young adult study participants while ensuring valid data collection. We report the protocol for Pediatric HIV/AIDS Cohort Study (PHACS) Adolescent Master Protocol (AMP) Up, a prospective cohort study enrolling young adult participants for long-term follow-up. METHODS AND ANALYSIS AMP Up is recruiting 850 young men and women 18 years of age and older-600 perinatally HIV-infected and a comparison group of 250 perinatally HIV-exposed, uninfected-at 14 clinical research sites in the USA and Puerto Rico. Recruitment began in April 2014 and is ongoing, with 305 participants currently enrolled. Planned follow-up is ≥6 years. Data are collected with a flexible hybrid of online and in-person methods. Outcomes include: transition to adult clinical care and retention in care; end-organ diseases; malignancies; metabolic complications; sexually transmitted infections; reproductive health; mental health and neurocognitive functioning; adherence to antiretroviral treatment; sexual behaviour and substance use; hearing and language impairments; and employment and educational achievement. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study received ethical approval from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health's institutional review board (IRB), and from the IRBs of each clinical research site. All participants provide written informed consent; for cognitively impaired individuals with legally authorised representatives, legal guardian permission and participant assent is obtained. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations and participant summaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Tassiopoulos
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kunjal Patel
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Julie Alperen
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Deborah Kacanek
- Center for Biostatistics in AIDS Research, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Angela Ellis
- Frontier Science and Technology Research Foundation, Inc, Amherst, New York, USA
| | - Claire Berman
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Susannah M Allison
- Division of AIDS Research, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Rohan Hazra
- Maternal and Pediatric Infectious Disease Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Emily Barr
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Krystal Cantos
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Suzanne Siminski
- Frontier Science and Technology Research Foundation, Inc, Amherst, New York, USA
| | - Michael Massagli
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jose Bauermeister
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Danish Q Siddiqui
- Department of Pediatrics, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Ana Puga
- Children's Diagnostic & Treatment Center, Inc., Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
| | - Russell Van Dyke
- Department of Pediatrics, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - George R Seage
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Richardson JL, Stephens S, Thomas SHL, Jamry-Dziurla A, de Jong-van den Berg L, Zetstra-van der Woude P, Laursen M, Hliva V, Mt-Isa S, Bourke A, Dreyer NA, Blackburn SC. An International Study of the Ability and Cost-Effectiveness of Advertising Methods to Facilitate Study Participant Self-Enrolment Into a Pilot Pharmacovigilance Study During Early Pregnancy. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2016; 2:e13. [PMID: 27227148 PMCID: PMC4869218 DOI: 10.2196/publichealth.5366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2015] [Revised: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Knowledge of the fetal effects of maternal medication use in pregnancy is often inadequate and current pregnancy pharmacovigilance (PV) surveillance methods have important limitations. Patient self-reporting may be able to mitigate some of these limitations, providing an adequately sized study sample can be recruited. Objective To compare the ability and cost-effectiveness of several direct-to-participant advertising methods for the recruitment of pregnant participants into a study of self-reported gestational exposures and pregnancy outcomes. Methods The Pharmacoepidemiological Research on Outcomes of Therapeutics by a European Consortium (PROTECT) pregnancy study is a non-interventional, prospective pilot study of self-reported medication use and obstetric outcomes provided by a cohort of pregnant women that was conducted in Denmark, the Netherlands, Poland, and the United Kingdom. Direct-to-participant advertisements were provided via websites, emails, leaflets, television, and social media platforms. Results Over a 70-week recruitment period direct-to-participant advertisements engaged 43,234 individuals with the study website or telephone system; 4.78% (2065/43,234) of which were successfully enrolled and provided study data. Of these 90.4% (1867/2065) were recruited via paid advertising methods, 23.0% (475/2065) of whom were in the first trimester of pregnancy. The overall costs per active recruited participant were lowest for email (€23.24) and website (€24.41) advertisements and highest for leaflet (€83.14) and television (€100.89). Website adverts were substantially superior in their ability to recruit participants during their first trimester of pregnancy (317/668, 47.5%) in comparison with other advertising methods (P<.001). However, we identified international variations in both the cost-effectiveness of the various advertisement methods used and in their ability to recruit participants in early pregnancy. Conclusions Recruitment of a pregnant cohort using direct-to-participant advertisement methods is feasible, but the total costs incurred are not insubstantial. Future research is needed to identify advertising strategies capable of recruiting large numbers of demographically representative pregnant women, preferentially in early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Luke Richardson
- The UK Teratology Information ServiceNewcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustNewcastle upon TyneUnited Kingdom.,Institute of Cellular MedicineNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUnited Kingdom
| | - Sally Stephens
- The UK Teratology Information ServiceNewcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustNewcastle upon TyneUnited Kingdom.,Institute of Cellular MedicineNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUnited Kingdom
| | - Simon Hugh Lynton Thomas
- The UK Teratology Information ServiceNewcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustNewcastle upon TyneUnited Kingdom.,Institute of Cellular MedicineNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUnited Kingdom
| | - Anna Jamry-Dziurla
- Department of Medical GeneticsPoznan University of Medical SciencesPoznanPoland
| | - Lolkje de Jong-van den Berg
- Unit of PharmacoEpidemiology and PharmacoEconomicsDepartment of PharmacyUniversity of GroningenGroningenNetherlands
| | | | - Maja Laursen
- Department of Data Delivery and Medicinal Product StatisticsThe Danish Health Data AuthorityCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Valerie Hliva
- Quintiles Real-World and Late Phase ResearchSt. PrexSwitzerland
| | - Shahrul Mt-Isa
- Imperial Clinical Trials UnitSchool of Public HealthImperial College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Alison Bourke
- Real World Evidence SolutionsIMS HealthLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Nancy A Dreyer
- Quintiles Real-World & Late Phase ResearchCambridge, MAUnited States
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Treatment of nausea in pregnancy: a cross-sectional multinational web-based study of pregnant women and new mothers. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2015; 15:321. [PMID: 26628289 PMCID: PMC4667480 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-015-0746-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2015] [Accepted: 11/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The factors related to the treatment of nausea during pregnancy have not yet been investigated in several countries simultaneously. The present study aimed to describe differences in self-reported nausea during pregnancy and the patterns of use for both conventional and herbal medicines across countries. The factors related to nausea and its treatment and the relationships between different self-reported co-morbidities and nausea were also investigated. METHODS This cross-sectional study used data collected by a web-based questionnaire distributed between October 2011 and February 2012 in several countries within five regions: Western, Northern, and Eastern Europe, North America, and Australia. Women who were pregnant or had a child less than one year old were eligible to participate. RESULTS A total of 9113 women were included in the study, whereof 6701 (73.5%) had experienced nausea during pregnancy. Among respondents with nausea, conventional medicines were used by 1201 (17.9%) women and herbal medicines by 556 (8.3%) women. The extent of self-reported nausea and its treatment varied by country. Education, working status, and folic acid use were significantly associated with the use of conventional medicines against nausea. Respondents who had nausea also had a high burden of co-morbidity. CONCLUSION The prevalence of nausea was high across all participating countries but its treatment varied, possibly due to cultural differences and differences in attitudes towards medicines. A high degree of co-morbidity was found among respondents with nausea.
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Stanford JB, Brenner R, Fetterer D, Palmer L, Schoendorf KC. Impact of preconception enrollment on birth enrollment and timing of exposure assessment in the initial vanguard cohort of the U.S. National Children's Study. BMC Med Res Methodol 2015; 15:75. [PMID: 26399430 PMCID: PMC4581516 DOI: 10.1186/s12874-015-0067-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 09/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The initial vanguard cohort of the U.S. National Children’s Study was a pregnancy and birth cohort study that sought to enroll some women prior to pregnancy, and to assess exposures early in pregnancy. Methods During the recruitment phase (2009–2010), geographically based sampling was used to recruit women early in pregnancy and women not currently pregnant, not using contraception and heterosexually active. We assessed the following outcomes for women enrolled preconception and early in pregnancy: yield of births; demographic characteristics of births for different enrollment groups; time to pregnancy for preconception women; and the timing of study visits for exposure assessment. Results 1399 women were recruited into the initial vanguard cohort: 429 preconception (198 trying for pregnancy, and 231 not trying) and 970 already pregnant. There were 1135 pregnancies (81 % of women) and 922 newborns enrolled (81 % of pregnancies) through September 2012. Preconception women represented 30.6 % of women enrolled, and contributed 14.5 % of births. Among women who gave birth, and who had enrolled preconception trying for pregnancy, 67.3 % were white non-Hispanic, compared to 50.0 % of preconception women not trying for pregnancy, and 61.5 % of pregnant women. Women enrolled preconception who were trying for pregnancy had higher cumulative probability of pregnancy at one year compared to women not trying (adjusted 86 % versus 56 %). Of 165 women enrolled preconception who became pregnant, 19 % had a study visit within 30 days of conception. By 10.5 weeks after conception, 75 % of women enrolled preconception had completed a pregnancy study visit; for women enrolled pregnant, the 75 % threshold was reached at 28.4 weeks. Conclusions There were demographic differences in births from women enrolled preconception trying for pregnancy, preconception not trying for pregnancy, or during pregnancy. Time to pregnancy was shorter for women actively trying for pregnancy. Most women enrolled preconception did not have exposure assessment within 30 days of conception, but they did have exposure assessment much earlier during pregnancy than women who enrolled during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph B Stanford
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Utah, 375 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - Ruth Brenner
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | | | - Leslie Palmer
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - Kenneth C Schoendorf
- Greenspring Pediatric Associates, Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Hahn KA, Hatch EE, Rothman KJ, Mikkelsen EM, Brogly SB, Sørensen HT, Riis AH, Wise LA. History of oral contraceptive use and risk of spontaneous abortion. Ann Epidemiol 2015; 25:936-41.e1. [PMID: 26452607 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2015.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Revised: 09/01/2015] [Accepted: 09/03/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the association between pregravid oral contraceptive (OC) use and spontaneous abortion (SAB). METHODS In an Internet-based preconception cohort study of 4862 Danish pregnancy planners, we used Cox proportional hazards models to estimate adjusted hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between OC use and SAB. We controlled for maternal age, physical activity, parity, education, alcohol and caffeine consumption, body mass index, and smoking. RESULTS Compared with women who discontinued OCs >1 year before conception, HRs were 0.95 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.77-1.17), 0.99 (95% CI = 0.82-1.19), and 0.80 (95% CI = 0.60-1.06) for women who discontinued OCs 7-12, 2-6, and 0-1 months before conception, respectively. Compared with less than 4 years of OC use, HRs for 4-7, 8-11, and 12 years or more of OC use were 1.05 (95% CI = 0.80-1.37), 0.92 (95% CI = 0.71-1.19), and 0.88 (95% CI = 0.65-1.19), respectively. Dose of estrogen and generation of progestin were not materially associated with SAB risk. CONCLUSIONS We found no evidence that pregravid OC use is associated with an increase in SAB. Use within 1 month of conception was associated with a slightly lower risk of SAB, but this may be due to increased reproductive fitness in women who conceive quickly after discontinuation of OCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen A Hahn
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA.
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA; RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, NC
| | - Ellen M Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Susan B Brogly
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Henrik T Sørensen
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA; Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Anders H Riis
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA; Slone Epidemiology Center, Boston University, Boston, MA
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Comparison of web versus interview participants in a case-control study. Ann Epidemiol 2015; 25:794-6. [PMID: 26296267 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2015.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2015] [Revised: 06/22/2015] [Accepted: 07/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate whether selection bias might be introduced because of differential self-selection into an internet-based case-control study. METHODS We compared sociodemographic factors and behavioral factors for cases and controls who opted for their first entrée into the study be via the internet (Web group) versus the telephone (Phone group), using data from a study on clubfoot. RESULTS Overall, 200 of 1,825 mothers were in the Web group and were more likely to be non-Hispanic White, nonsmokers, more educated, wealthier, and took ≥7 medications/vitamins in pregnancy. These differences were greater for case mothers, introducing the potential for selection bias. Maternal smoking is an established risk factor for clubfoot and was confirmed in the Phone group (OR = 1.61) but was not observed in the Web group (OR = 1.15). CONCLUSION Our results suggest there is potential for selection bias if enrollment is solely internet based for a case-control study.
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Relative validity of a semi-quantitative, web-based FFQ used in the 'Snart Forældre' cohort - a Danish study of diet and fertility. Public Health Nutr 2015; 19:1027-34. [PMID: 26235206 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980015002189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the relative validity of a semi-quantitative, web-based FFQ completed by female pregnancy planners in the Danish 'Snart Forældre' study. DESIGN We validated a web-based FFQ based on the FFQ used in the Danish National Birth Cohort against a 4 d food diary (FD) and assessed the relative validity of intakes of foods and nutrients. We compared means and medians of intakes, and calculated Pearson correlation coefficients and de-attenuated coefficients to assess agreement between the two methods. We also calculated the proportion correctly classified based on the same or adjacent quintile of intake and the proportion of grossly misclassified (extreme quintiles). SETTING Participants (n 128) in the 'Snart Forældre' study who had completed the web-based FFQ were invited to participate in the validation study. SUBJECTS Participants in the 'Snart Forældre' study, in total ninety-seven women aged 20-42 years. RESULTS Reported intakes of dairy products, vegetables and potatoes were higher in the FFQ compared with the FD, whereas reported intakes of fruit, meat, sugar and beverages were lower in the FFQ than in the FD. Overall the de-attenuated correlation coefficients were acceptable, ranging from 0·33 for energy to 0·93 for vitamin D. The majority of the women were classified in the same or adjacent quintile and few women were misclassified (extreme quintiles). CONCLUSION The web-based FFQ performs well for ranking women of reproductive age according to high or low intake of foods and nutrients and, thus, provides a solid basis for investigating associations between diet and fertility.
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Wise LA, Rothman KJ, Mikkelsen EM, Stanford JB, Wesselink AK, McKinnon C, Gruschow SM, Horgan CE, Wiley AS, Hahn KA, Sørensen HT, Hatch EE. Design and Conduct of an Internet-Based Preconception Cohort Study in North America: Pregnancy Study Online. Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol 2015; 29:360-71. [PMID: 26111445 PMCID: PMC4662659 DOI: 10.1111/ppe.12201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We launched the Boston University Pregnancy Study Online (PRESTO) to assess the feasibility of carrying out an Internet-based preconception cohort study in the US and Canada. METHODS We recruited female participants age 21-45 and their male partners through Internet advertisements, word of mouth, and flyers. Female participants were randomised with 50% probability to receive a subscription to FertilityFriend.com (FF), a web-based programme that collects real-time data on menstrual characteristics. We compared recruitment methods within PRESTO, assessed the cost-efficiency of PRESTO relative to its Danish counterpart (Snart-Gravid), and validated retrospectively reported date of last menstrual period (LMP) against the FF data. RESULTS After 99 weeks of recruitment (2013-15), 2421 women enrolled; 1384 (57%) invited their male partners to participate, of whom 693 (50%) enrolled. Baseline characteristics were balanced across randomisation groups. Cohort retention was similar among those randomised vs. not randomised to FF (84% vs. 81%). At study enrollment, 56%, 22%, and 22% couples had been trying to conceive for < 3, 3-5, and ≥ 6 months, respectively. The cost per subject enrolled was $146 (2013 US$), which was similar to our companion Danish study and half that of a traditional cohort study. Among FF users who conceived, > 97% reported their LMP on the PRESTO questionnaire within 1 day of the LMP recorded via FF. CONCLUSIONS Use of the Internet as a method of recruitment and follow-up in a North American preconception cohort study was feasible and cost-effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Massachusetts,Slone Epidemiology Center, Boston University, Massachusetts
| | - Kenneth J. Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Massachusetts,RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Ellen M. Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Joseph B. Stanford
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Amelia K. Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Massachusetts
| | - Craig McKinnon
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Massachusetts
| | - Siobhan M. Gruschow
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Massachusetts,Slone Epidemiology Center, Boston University, Massachusetts
| | - Casie E. Horgan
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Massachusetts
| | - Aleta S. Wiley
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Massachusetts
| | - Kristen A. Hahn
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Massachusetts
| | - Henrik Toft Sørensen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Elizabeth E. Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Massachusetts
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Cueto HT, Riis AH, Hatch EE, Wise LA, Rothman KJ, Sørensen HT, Mikkelsen EM. Folic acid supplementation and fecundability: a Danish prospective cohort study. Eur J Clin Nutr 2015; 70:66-71. [PMID: 26081493 DOI: 10.1038/ejcn.2015.94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2014] [Revised: 04/10/2015] [Accepted: 05/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Periconceptional folic acid (FA) supplementation reduces the risk of neural tube defects and has been associated with ovulatory function. However, only two studies have associated supplementation with multivitamins (MVs) that contained FA with increased pregnancy rates. We aimed to examine the association between FA supplementation (obtained either through single FA tablets or through MVs) and fecundability. SUBJECTS/METHODS A prospective cohort study of 3895 Danish women who were planning a pregnancy between 2007 and 2011. We estimated fecundability ratios (FRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in relation to FA supplementation (either through single FA tablets or MV) using a proportional probabilities regression model, with adjustment for potential socio-demographic, reproductive and lifestyle confounders. In stratified analyses, we also estimated FR with 95% CI in relation to FA supplementation for women with regular and irregular cycles, respectively, and for women with short (<27 days), medium (27-29 days) and long cycles (⩾30 days), respectively. RESULTS FA supplementation was associated with increased fecundability (FR=1.15, 95% CI=1.06-1.25), compared with non-use. The adjusted FRs for FA supplement use relative to non-use were 1.35 (95% CI=1.12-1.65) and 1.11 (95% CI=1.01-1.22) for women with irregular and regular cycles, respectively, and 1.36 (95% CI=0.95-1.95), 1.10 (95% CI=0.98-1.22) and 1.24 (95% CI=1.10-1.41) for women with short (<27 days), medium (27-29 days) and long cycles (⩾30 days), respectively. CONCLUSIONS FA supplementation was associated with increased fecundability, and this association appeared to be stronger among women with irregular cycles and among women with either short or long cycle length.
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Affiliation(s)
- H T Cueto
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - A H Riis
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - E E Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - L A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.,Slone Epidemiology Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - K J Rothman
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.,RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - H T Sørensen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - E M Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Folic acid supplement use and menstrual cycle characteristics: a cross-sectional study of Danish pregnancy planners. Ann Epidemiol 2015; 25:723-9.e1. [PMID: 26123570 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2015.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2014] [Revised: 05/07/2015] [Accepted: 05/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the association between folic acid (FA) supplementation obtained through either single FA tablets or multivitamins (MVs) and menstrual cycle characteristics among 5386 women aged 18-40 years, enrolled in an Internet-based study of Danish women attempting pregnancy during 2007-2011. METHODS In a cross-sectional study, we used logistic regression to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the associations of FA supplementation with menstrual cycle regularity; short (<27 days), long (30-33 days), and very long (≥34 days) cycle lengths; and duration and intensity of menstrual bleeding. RESULTS Compared with nonuse, FA supplementation was associated with reduced odds of short cycle length (OR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.68-0.94) and a trend toward increased odds of very long cycle length (OR = 1.21, 95% CI: 0.87-1.68) compared with cycle length of 27-29 days. The inverse association with short cycle length was stronger among 18- to 30-year-old women (OR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.53-0.87), nulliparous women (OR = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.52-0.84), and women who used both FA and MVs (OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.60-0.95). We found no clear association between FA supplementation and cycle regularity and duration and intensity of menstrual bleeding. CONCLUSIONS FA supplementation was inversely associated with short menstrual cycle length. This association was strongest among women aged 18-30 years, nulliparous women, and women who used both FA and MVs.
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Tinker SC, Carmichael SL, Anderka M, Browne ML, Caspers Conway KM, Meyer RE, Nembhard WN, Olney RS, Reefhuis J. Next steps for birth defects research and prevention: The birth defects study to evaluate pregnancy exposures (BD-STEPS). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 103:733-40. [PMID: 25846741 DOI: 10.1002/bdra.23373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Revised: 02/22/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Birth Defects Study To Evaluate Pregnancy exposureS (BD-STEPS) is a population-based, multi-Center case-control study of modifiable risk factors for selected birth defects in the United States. BD-STEPS is the second major research effort of the Centers for Birth Defects Research and Prevention, which extends and expands the initial research effort, the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (NBDPS). METHODS BD-STEPS focuses on 17 categories of structural birth defects selected based on severity, prevalence, consistent ascertainment, and previous findings that warrant additional research. Cases are identified through existing birth defects surveillance programs; controls are from vital records or birth hospital logs from the same catchment area. BD-STEPS uses a standardized computer-assisted telephone interview to collect information from case and control mothers on topics including demographics, health conditions, and medication use. Following the maternal interview, selected Centers request permission to sample residual newborn screening blood spots from state repositories for genetic analyses. New components planned for BD-STEPS include linkages with external datasets and use of online questionnaires to collect in-depth information on selected exposures. RESULTS BD-STEPS extends NBDPS by continuing to collect data on many exposures that were assessed in NBDPS, allowing data from both studies to be combined and providing an unprecedented sample size to analyze rare exposures. BD-STEPS expands upon NBDPS by collecting more detailed information on existing exposures as well as new exposures. CONCLUSION The goal of BD-STEPS is to provide women and healthcare providers with information they need to make decisions to promote the healthiest pregnancy possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah C Tinker
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Suzan L Carmichael
- Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Marlene Anderka
- Center for Birth Defects Research and Prevention at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Marilyn L Browne
- Congenital Malformations Registry, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York
| | | | - Robert E Meyer
- Birth Defects Monitoring Program, State Center for Health Statistics, North Carolina Division of Public Health, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Wendy N Nembhard
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas
| | - Richard S Olney
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jennita Reefhuis
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
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Andreeva VA, Salanave B, Castetbon K, Deschamps V, Vernay M, Kesse-Guyot E, Hercberg S. Comparison of the sociodemographic characteristics of the large NutriNet-Santé e-cohort with French Census data: the issue of volunteer bias revisited. J Epidemiol Community Health 2015; 69:893-8. [DOI: 10.1136/jech-2014-205263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2014] [Accepted: 03/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Hahn KA, Wise LA, Rothman KJ, Mikkelsen EM, Brogly SB, Sørensen HT, Riis AH, Hatch EE. Caffeine and caffeinated beverage consumption and risk of spontaneous abortion. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:1246-55. [PMID: 25788567 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2014] [Accepted: 02/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is caffeine and caffeinated beverage consumption associated with the risk of spontaneous abortion (SAB)? SUMMARY ANSWER While preconceptional caffeine consumption was not materially associated with an increased risk of SAB, consumption during early pregnancy was associated with a small increased risk of SAB, although the relation was not linear. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Caffeine has been hypothesized as a risk factor for SAB since the 1980s; however, results from previous studies have been conflicting. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This prospective cohort study included 5132 Danish women planning pregnancy and enrolled from 2007 to 2010. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Participants were women who conceived after entry into the Snart-Gravid cohort and who were aged 18-40, in a stable relationship with a male partner, and did not use fertility treatments to conceive. Women reported their daily caffeine and caffeinated beverage consumption on questionnaires before conception and during early pregnancy. All exposure measurements were prospective with respect to outcome ascertainment. We estimated hazard ratios (HRs) of SAB for categories of caffeine consumption in milligrams (mg) per day and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using Cox proportional hazards regression models with gestational weeks as the time scale. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE There were 732 women (14.3%) who were identified as having a SAB. In the preconceptional period, caffeine consumption was not materially associated with SAB risk (HR comparing ≥300 with <100 mg/day: 1.09; 95% CI: 0.89, 1.33). In early pregnancy, the HRs for 100-199, 200-299 and ≥300 mg/day of caffeine consumption were 1.62 (95% CI: 1.19, 2.22), 1.48 (95% CI: 1.03, 2.13) and 1.23 (95% CI: 0.61, 2.46), respectively, compared with that for <100 mg/day. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The observed results may be affected by non-differential exposure misclassification, reverse causation and residual confounding. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This is the largest study to date of prospectively measured, preconception caffeine consumption and risk of SAB. We were able to reduce the likelihood of differential left truncation bias and recall bias present in other analyses. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS Snart-Gravid was funded by the NICHD (R21-050264). Dr. Hahn's work was funded in part by the BU Reproductive, Perinatal, and Pediatric Epidemiology Training Grant NIH #T32HD052458. There are no competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Hahn
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - L A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA Slone Epidemiology Center, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - K J Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, NC 12194 USA
| | - E M Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - S B Brogly
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - H T Sørensen
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - A H Riis
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - E E Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA
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Lesher LL, Matyas RA, Sjaarda LA, Newman SL, Silver RM, Galai N, Hovey KM, Wactawski-Wende J, Emerick L, Lynch AM, Mead B, Townsend JM, Perkins NJ, Mumford SL, Stanford J, Schisterman EF. Recruitment for longitudinal, randomised pregnancy trials initiated preconception: lessons from the effects of aspirin in gestation and reproduction trial. Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol 2015; 29:162-7. [PMID: 25682951 PMCID: PMC6194508 DOI: 10.1111/ppe.12177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recruitment into large, preconception randomised clinical trials (RCT) is challenging. We describe clinic and community-based preconception recruitment strategies for the Effects of Aspirin in Gestation and Reproduction (EAGeR) trial and highlight approaches that were and were not successful. This longitudinal RCT was conducted at four major sites in the US. Eligible women had one to two prior pregnancy losses and were actively trying to become pregnant. METHODS Provider/clinic and community-based outreach strategies were utilised, and the recruitment rate and costs of methods were assessed. RESULTS A screening questionnaire was completed by 5485 women; 42.4% (n = 2323) screened were initially eligible, of whom 50.7% (n = 1228) were randomised. Provider/clinic-based recruitment yielded the highest number eligible of those screened (30.1%) and also the most randomised participants overall (40.3%). The next highest yield came from direct mail and brochures/flyers at 13.1% and 12.5% of women randomised, respectively. However, direct mailings cost $720 per participant randomised. Other than word of mouth, provider/clinic-based recruitment was the most cost effective method, costing an average of $60 per randomised participant. Web-based recruitment yielded 4.7% of participants at a cost of $278 per randomised participant. CONCLUSIONS Provider and clinic-based recruitment was the most effective and cost-efficient method of recruitment in a preconception intervention study of reproduction among women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurie L. Lesher
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Rebecca A. Matyas
- Epidemiology Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD
| | - Lindsey A. Sjaarda
- Epidemiology Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD
| | - Sarah L. Newman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Robert M. Silver
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Noya Galai
- Department of Statistics, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Kathleen M. Hovey
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY
| | - Jean Wactawski-Wende
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY
| | - Leah Emerick
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado, Denver, CO
| | - Anne M. Lynch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado, Denver, CO
| | - Betsy Mead
- Department of Family, Community and Rural Health, Commonwealth Medical College, Scranton, PA
| | - Janet M. Townsend
- Department of Family, Community and Rural Health, Commonwealth Medical College, Scranton, PA
| | - Neil J. Perkins
- Epidemiology Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD
| | - Sunni L. Mumford
- Epidemiology Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD
| | - Joseph Stanford
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT,Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Enrique F. Schisterman
- Epidemiology Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD
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