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Shinnick JK, Jackson AA, Stanley R, Serna-Gallegos T, Boyd B, Joseph I, Das D, Pancheshnikov A, Scarpaci MM, Sung VW. Prolapse Treatment-Related Decisional Conflict After New Patient Visits. UROGYNECOLOGY (PHILADELPHIA, PA.) 2024:02273501-990000000-00272. [PMID: 39331797 DOI: 10.1097/spv.0000000000001570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/29/2024]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Patients with pelvic organ prolapse are often tasked with deciding between treatments. Decisional conflict is a measure of factors that go into effective decision making. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to compare prolapse treatment-related decisional conflict reported by underrepresented patients (URPs) to non-URPs after new patient visits. STUDY DESIGN A multicenter cohort study of new patients counseled regarding management of prolapse from July 2021 to December 2022 was performed. Participants completed the Decisional Conflict Scale (DCS), a validated measure of modifiable factors in decision making. Higher scores indicate feeling less comfortable with decisions. Race and ethnicity were viewed as social constructs. A URP was defined as self-identification with a non-White race or Hispanic ethnicity. Alpha was set at 0.05, power 80%, to detect an effect size of 0.4 between mean DCS scores. RESULTS A total of 207 participants (103 URPs, 49.8%), with a mean age of 63.4 ± 11.9 years and mean body mass index of 29.7 ± 6.9 (calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared), completed the study. Much of the URP group self-identified as Hispanic (50/103, 48.5%) and/or Black (39/103, 37.9%), and 30 of 103 (29.1%) had an interpreter at their visit. A greater proportion of non-URPs had a prior hysterectomy (16.1% difference; P = 0.017) and prolapse surgery (18/204, 10.5% difference; P = 0.020). A greater proportion of URPs had hypertension (23.6% difference; P = <0.001). There were no differences in the other pelvic floor disorders, prolapse stage, or treatments selected (all P > 0.05). The mean DCS scores were not different between groups (URP, 12.9 ± 12.3 vs non-URP, 11.6 ± 14.9; P = 0.31). Household income, education, and insurance were not associated with DCS scores (all P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Decisional Conflict Scale scores were not significantly different between groups. Possible differences between subgroups warrant further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia K Shinnick
- From the Division of Urogynecology and Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Infants Hospital, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Araba A Jackson
- Division of Urogynecology and Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of South Florida, Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida
| | - Russel Stanley
- Division of Urogynecology and Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Tasha Serna-Gallegos
- Division of Urogynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Brittni Boyd
- Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, Irvine, CA
| | - Ivrose Joseph
- Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Deepanjana Das
- Division and Urogynecology and Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Anna Pancheshnikov
- Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Matthew M Scarpaci
- Hassenfeld Child Health Innovation Institute, Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Vivian W Sung
- From the Division of Urogynecology and Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Infants Hospital, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
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McHugh EG, Hinkes S, Chisolm A, Nguyen TV, Wein A, Amin K, Williams A, Syan R. Minority Women Undergo Surgical Treatment of Pelvic Organ Prolapse at Similar Rates to Non-minorities in a Hispanic Minority-majority Population: An Analysis of Nearly 1000 Women. Urology 2024:S0090-4295(24)00701-5. [PMID: 39173930 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2024.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess how race, ethnicity, primary language, clinical and other sociodemographic factors predict surgical treatment for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in a minority-majority Hispanic population. METHODS We identified patients with POP ICD-10 codes from Oct 2019 to Dec 2022 at our Urogynecology academic practice. Data were collected by chart review. Covariates were obtained by manual abstraction. Continuous and categorical variables were analyzed using t-test and chi-square test, and Wilcoxon rank-sum test for non-parametric data. A logistic regression model was fitted to identify independent predictors of surgery. RESULTS Of 943 patients over 38 months, 441 (46.8%) underwent surgery. On univariate analysis, younger age, Hispanic/Latino ethnicity, Spanish as primary language, private insurance, stage of prolapse and obesity correlated with higher rates of surgical treatment. On multivariate regression, only age and prolapse compartment remained significant predictors. Younger age and apical prolapse increased the likelihood of surgery (OR=.98 [.96-.99], P = <.001; R=2.31 [1.13-4.72], P = <.001, respectively). CONCLUSION Controlling for confounders, age, and apical prolapse compartment predicted surgical treatment for POP in our Hispanic minority-majority population. Previously identified barriers to care including minority status and non-English primary language do not appear to exist in our population. This may be related to linguistic, ethnic, and racial concordance between healthcare staff and patients, alongside protective aspects of ethnic enclaves. Further research is warranted to understand the impact of cultural barriers, such as provider language, on patient-provider dynamics and surgical decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin G McHugh
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL.
| | | | | | - Thuy-Vi Nguyen
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL
| | - Alan Wein
- Department of Urology, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | | | - Adam Williams
- Department of Urology, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | - Raveen Syan
- Department of Urology, University of Miami, Miami, FL
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Mukwege A, Harlow SD, Hood MM, Reed BD, Dugan SA, Miller JM. Race/Ethnicity and Incidence of Pelvic Organ Prolapse in Midlife Women: The Study of Women's Health Across the Nation. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2024; 33:1042-1051. [PMID: 38551169 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2023.0804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) affects a considerable proportion of women. Limited information exists regarding the incidence of POP as women transition through menopause. Using data from the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN), this diverse community-based longitudinal cohort study assessed the incidence of symptomatic POP and risk by race/ethnicity. Methods: Self-reported POP was ascertained by questionnaire at 11 approximately annual SWAN visits over a median of 13.3 years of follow-up. We estimated probabilities for reporting POP using interval-censored Kaplan-Meier survival plots. We estimated hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) using interval-censored Cox proportional hazards models. Results: The estimated cumulative probability of POP increased linearly from 2.1% at age 45 to 10.1% by age 65 (4.0% per decade). At age 65, the probability was 4.2%, 4.8%, 8.9%, 9.7%, and 33.9% for Japanese, Chinese, Black, White, and Hispanic women, respectively. Compared with White women, the unadjusted HR for POP was 3.09 (95% CI = 2.18-4.39), 0.96 (0.71-1.31), 0.43 (0.22-0.85), and 0.48 (0.26-0.88) for Hispanic, Black, Chinese, and Japanese women, respectively. After adjustment for financial strain and vaginal birth, the low hazards among Chinese and Japanese women and the high hazard for Hispanic women remained significant. Conclusion: Incidence of symptomatic POP increased as women aged through midlife. Risks varied by race and ethnicity and were not accounted for by population differences in socioeconomic life contexts or the probability of having had a vaginal birth. Although not associated with menopause, health providers should incorporate screening for and information about POP when treating menopausal symptoms and health needs of midlife women. Research on pathophysiological factors associated with increasing POP in midlife is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alain Mukwege
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Siobán D Harlow
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Michelle M Hood
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Barbara D Reed
- Department of Family Medicine, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Sheila A Dugan
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rush University System for Health, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Janis M Miller
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Science, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Chyu J, Alimi O, Popat S, Smith-Mathus G, Lee UJ. Experiences of Black Women With Pelvic Floor Disorders-A Qualitative Analysis Study. UROGYNECOLOGY (PHILADELPHIA, PA.) 2024:02273501-990000000-00246. [PMID: 38954608 DOI: 10.1097/spv.0000000000001542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Disparities research in Black women with pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) has primarily focused on epidemiology or surgical outcomes, but little is known about the patient perspective on seeking PFD care. OBJECTIVE To provide quality and equitable care to Black women with PFDs, we conducted a qualitative study to hear their perspectives and lived health care experiences. STUDY DESIGN Black women seeking care for PFDs at a tertiary care institution were invited to participate in qualitative interviews. Open-ended questions explored participants' knowledge, attitudes, and health care experiences. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded line-by-line. Inductive content analysis was performed to identify key themes, and consensus was achieved among the research team. RESULTS Eight Black women aged 21-83 years consented to participate. Patients noted a stigma surrounding PFDs, both among health care professionals and their community. They noted several barriers to care: financial, logistical, and racial bias. They cited difficulties in patient-health care professional communication, including not feeling heard or treated as an individual. They preferred gender and racial concordance with their physicians. These women expressed both a desire for more knowledge and to share this knowledge and advocate for other women. CONCLUSIONS Black women expressed distinct obstacles in their PFD health care. They reported not feeling heard or treated as a unique individual. The themes derived from this study identify complex patient-centered needs that can serve as the basis for future quality improvement work and/or hypothesis-driven research. By grounding health disparities research in patient perspectives, we can improve the health care experiences of Black women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Chyu
- From the Section of Urology and Renal Transplantation, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, Seattle, WA
| | - Oriyomi Alimi
- From the Section of Urology and Renal Transplantation, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, Seattle, WA
| | - Shreeya Popat
- From the Section of Urology and Renal Transplantation, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, Seattle, WA
| | | | - Una J Lee
- From the Section of Urology and Renal Transplantation, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, Seattle, WA
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Alagh A, Ramm O, Lyon LL, Ritterman Weintraub ML, Shatkin-Margolis A. Implication of Neighborhood Deprivation Index on Pelvic Organ Prolapse Management. UROGYNECOLOGY (PHILADELPHIA, PA.) 2024:02273501-990000000-00183. [PMID: 38465980 PMCID: PMC11380043 DOI: 10.1097/spv.0000000000001501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Differences in the rate of diagnosis of POP have been described based on race and ethnicity; however, there are few data available on the management and treatment patterns of POP based on multiple factors of socioeconomic status and deprivation. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to investigate the association between pelvic organ prolapse (POP) management and the Neighborhood Deprivation Index (NDI), a standardized multidimensional measure of socioeconomic status. METHODS This retrospective cohort study included female members of a large integrated health care delivery system who were 18 years or older and had ≥4 years of continuous health care membership from January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2019. Demographic, POP diagnosis, urogynecology consultation, and surgical treatment of POP were obtained from the electronic medical record. Neighborhood Deprivation Index data were extrapolated via zip code and were reported in quartiles, with higher quartiles reflecting greater deprivation. Descriptive, bivariate, and logistic regression analyses were conducted by NDI. RESULTS Of 1,087,567 patients identified, 34,890 (3.2%) had a POP diagnosis. Q1, the least deprived group, had the highest prevalence of POP (26.3%). Most patients with POP identified as White (57.3%) and represented approximately a third of Q1. Black patients had the lowest rate of POP (5.8%) and comprised almost half of Q4, the most deprived quartile. A total of 13,730 patients (39.4%) had a urogynecology consultation, with rates ranging from 23.6% to 26.4% (P < 0.01). Less than half (12.8%) of patients with POP underwent surgical treatment, and the relative frequencies of procedure types were similar across NDI quartiles except for obliterative procedures (P = 0.01). When controlling for age, no clinically significant difference was demonstrated. CONCLUSIONS Differences in urogynecology consultation, surgical treatment, and surgical procedure type performed for prolapse across NDI quartiles were not found to be clinically significant. Our findings suggest that equitable evaluation and treatment of prolapse can occur through a membership-based integrated health care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Alagh
- From the Division of Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaiser Permanente Oakland, Kaiser Permanente East Bay-University of California San Francisco Urogynecology Fellowship Training Program
| | - Olga Ramm
- Division of Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California San Francisco, Kaiser Permanente East Bay-University of California San Francisco Urogynecology Fellowship Training Program
| | - Liisa L Lyon
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | | | - Abigail Shatkin-Margolis
- Division of Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California San Francisco, Kaiser Permanente East Bay-University of California San Francisco Urogynecology Fellowship Training Program
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Carter-Brooks CM, Brown OE, Ackenbom MF. Pelvic Floor Disorders in Black Women: Prevalence, Clinical Care, and a Strategic Agenda to Prioritize Care. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 2024; 51:157-179. [PMID: 38267125 PMCID: PMC11093648 DOI: 10.1016/j.ogc.2023.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Pelvic floor disorders are a group of common conditions affecting women of all racial and ethnic groups. These disorders are undertreated in all women, but this is especially magnified in Black people who have been historically marginalized in the United States. This article seeks to highlight the prevalence of pelvic floor disorders in Black women, evaluate the clinical care they receive, examine barriers they face to equitable care, and present a strategic agenda to prioritize the care of Black women with pelvic floor disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charelle M Carter-Brooks
- The George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2150 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Suite 6A- 416, Washington, DC 20037, USA.
| | - Oluwateniola E Brown
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 250 East Superior Avenue Suite 05-2113, Chicago, IL 60601, USA
| | - Mary F Ackenbom
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, 3240 Craft Place, Suite 226, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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Downing P, Dong SM, Ardizzone MA, Lynch CD, Hickman LC. Association of Neighborhood-Level Socioeconomic Status With Prolapse Management Decision. UROGYNECOLOGY (PHILADELPHIA, PA.) 2024; 30:345-351. [PMID: 38484252 DOI: 10.1097/spv.0000000000001488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE This study identifies how neighborhood-level socioeconomic status (SES) may affect patients' treatment decisions for pelvic organ prolapse (POP). OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the association of neighborhood-level SES with the decision of surgical versus conservative POP management. STUDY DESIGN This was a retrospective cohort study of patients newly diagnosed with POP at a tertiary medical center between 2015 and 2021. Patients lost to follow-up or poor surgical candidates were excluded. Patient characteristics, demographics, and treatment selection were abstracted from the electronic health record. Conservative management was defined as expectant, pessary, and/or pelvic floor physical therapy. Five-digit zip codes were linked to the Area Deprivation Index and used as a surrogate for neighborhood-level SES. Area Deprivation Indices were dichotomized at or below the sample median (less disadvantaged area) and above the sample median (more disadvantaged area). Logistic regression models estimated the odds of choosing surgical versus conservative management as a function of the Area Deprivation Index. RESULTS A total of 459 patients met the eligibility criteria (non-Hispanic White, 88.2%). The median age was 63 years (interquartile range, 52-70 years), and the majority had stage 2 POP (65.7%). Of all patients, 59.3% had Medicare/Medicaid, 39.9% were privately insured, and 0.9% were uninsured. Furthermore, 74.7% selected surgical management, and 25.3% chose conservative management. Increasing age and higher Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification System stage were significantly associated with selecting surgery (P = 0.01). Women residing in a more disadvantaged area had a 67% increased odds of choosing surgical over conservative management (adjusted odds ratio, 1.67; 95% confidence interval, 1.06-2.64) after adjusting for age, race/ethnicity, body mass index, and Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification System stage. CONCLUSIONS Residing in a more disadvantaged zip code was associated with 67% increased odds of choosing surgical versus conservative POP management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Perrin Downing
- From the Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Shirley M Dong
- From the Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | | | - Courtney D Lynch
- Obstetrics and Gynecology and Epidemiology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Lisa C Hickman
- From the Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
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Siyoum M, Teklesilasie W, Alelgn Y, Astatkie A. Inequality in healthcare-seeking behavior among women with pelvic organ prolapse: a systematic review and narrative synthesis. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:222. [PMID: 37138299 PMCID: PMC10157925 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02367-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) affects women's quality of life in various aspects. However, evidence on the healthcare-seeking behavior of women with POP is limited. Therefore, this review aimed to identify and synthesize the existing evidence on the healthcare-seeking behavior among women with POP. METHODS This systematic review and narrative synthesis of the literature on healthcare-seeking behavior among women with POP was conducted from 20 June to 07 July 2022. The electronic databases PubMed, African Journals Online, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, African Index Medicus and Directory of Open Access Journal, and Google Scholar were searched for relevant literature published from 1996 to April 2022. The retrieved evidence was synthesized using a narrative synthesis approach. The characteristics of included studies and the level of healthcare-seeking behavior were summarized in a table and texts. Error bar was used to show the variability across different studies. RESULTS A total of 966 articles were retrieved of which only eight studies with 23,501 women (2,683 women with pelvic organ prolapse) were included in the synthesis. The level of healthcare-seeking behavior ranges from 21.3% in Pakistan to 73.4% in California, USA. The studies were conducted in four different populations, used both secondary and primary data, and were conducted in six different countries. The error bar shows variation in healthcare-seeking behavior. CONCLUSIONS The level of health-care seeking behavior among women with POP is low in low-income countries. There is substantial variability in the characteristics of the reviewed studies. We recommend a large-scale and robust study which will help to better understand the healthcare-seeking behavior among women with POP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melese Siyoum
- Department of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia.
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia.
| | - Wondwosen Teklesilasie
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Yitateku Alelgn
- Department of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Ayalew Astatkie
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
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Agu I, Smith FK, Murarka S, Xu J, Siddiqui G, Orejuela F, Muir TW, Antosh DD. An evaluation of pelvic floor disorders in a public and private healthcare setting. Int Urogynecol J 2023; 34:693-699. [PMID: 35503122 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-022-05215-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS The objectives were to determine whether a difference exists in the duration of pelvic floor disorder (PFD) symptoms among patients presenting to urogynecologists in two healthcare systems: private and county; and to elucidate differences in baseline characteristics, type of PFDs, symptom severity and management, stratified by healthcare plans. METHODS A multi-center retrospective study was conducted including new patients presenting to three urogynecology clinics between March 2016 and May 2018: one private clinic (site A) and two public clinics in the same county healthcare system (sites B and C). Baseline data included age, race, BMI, parity, and comorbidities. Primary outcome was "time to presentation" defined as PFD duration in months. Secondary outcomes were symptom severity and PFD management, analyzed by healthcare setting and insurance type. RESULTS A total of 1,055 private and 439 public patients were included. Patients in the public setting were younger (54 vs 61 years, p<0.001), largely Hispanic (76% vs 14%, p<0.001), of higher parity (4 vs 3, p=0.001), and had more comorbidities, with a predominance of county-funded healthcare plans. There was no difference in duration of symptoms between the public and private groups respectively (54 vs 56 months, p=0.94). Patients in the public setting had more severe urinary incontinence (3 vs 2 pads/day, p<0.001) and prolapse (stages 3-4, 71% vs 61%, p=0.004); however, they had lower rates of surgical management for stress incontinence and prolapse. Differences in fecal incontinence could not be evaluated owing to small sample size. CONCLUSIONS Public patients presented younger with more severe symptoms but had lower rates of surgery for PFDs traditionally managed surgically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ijeoma Agu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Fiona K Smith
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Shivani Murarka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jiaqiong Xu
- Center for Outcome Research, Houston Methodist Hospital Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Gazala Siddiqui
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Francisco Orejuela
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Tristi W Muir
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Danielle D Antosh
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
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Rodríguez D, Goueli R, Lemack G, Zimmern P, Carmel M. Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Pelvic Organ Prolapse Surgery in the United States: An Analysis of the ACS-NSQIP Clinical Registry. Urology 2023; 174:70-78. [PMID: 36764490 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2023.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the types of POP surgery performed and patients' morbidity and mortality according to race and ethnicity in the United States. METHODS Using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database, we identified patients who had undergone POP procedures and stratified them by race and ethnicity. We compared differences in patient's baseline comorbidities and distribution of POP repairs performed. We further evaluated racial and ethnic disparities concerning complications, readmissions, reoperations, and mortality rates by performing univariate and multivariate analyses. RESULTS From 2012-2017, we identified 50,561 patients who underwent a primary POP repair procedure. The majority of patients were white (89.8%), followed by blacks (5.5%), and others (4.7%). Hispanics made up only 11.2% of the cohort. Black and Hispanic patients were younger, had higher BMI and suffered from a higher number of comorbidities than their white counterparts. There were significant differences in the types of POP procedures performed according to race and ethnicity. Despite no significant differences noted in overall complication rates, the types of complications varied by race and ethnicity. Neither race nor ethnicity was a significant predictor of reoperation or mortality. CONCLUSION There are notable racial and ethnic disparities in patients' comorbidities and types of POP repairs performed among women undergoing POP surgery in the United States. Although black patients are at a higher risk for readmission, there were no observed differences in complication, reoperation, or mortality rates according to race and ethnicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dayron Rodríguez
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX.
| | - Ramy Goueli
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Gary Lemack
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Philippe Zimmern
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Maude Carmel
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
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Health Care Disparities Among Latina Patients Presenting With Pelvic Organ Prolapse. Female Pelvic Med Reconstr Surg 2022; 28:608-615. [PMID: 35759777 DOI: 10.1097/spv.0000000000001214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE This study identifies barriers, including language and insurance status, Latina patients may face in accessing urogynecology care. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to determine differences in objective prolapse severity at the time of presentation between Latina and non-Latina patients and the effect socioeconomic disparities may have on these differences. STUDY DESIGN This is a retrospective cohort study of patients visiting urogynecology clinics at 2 academic institutions (1 private, 1 public). Patients with symptomatic > stage II prolapse were included. Initial Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification examinations, leading edge of prolapse, and demographic data were extracted. We evaluated several socioeconomic factors for associations with prolapse severity in a multivariable analysis. RESULTS Three hundred forty-two patients were included (36% Latina). Twenty-eight percent were non-English speaking and 54% had public or no insurance. Using leading edge as the outcome, there was no objective difference in prolapse severity between the Latina and non-Latina patients. A higher proportion of patients with public insurance had more advanced prolapse compared with those with private insurance (odds ratio, 2.78; 95% confidence interval, 1.40-5.55; P < 0.01) and a higher proportion of non-English speaking had more advanced prolapse compared with English speakers (odds ratio, 2.44; 95% confidence interval, 1.12-5.34; P = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS Latina ethnicity was not a risk factor for more advanced prolapse at the time of initial evaluation in a urogynecology clinic. Rather, patients who were non-English speaking and had public insurance were more likely to present with more advanced prolapse. Our data suggest that language barriers and lower socioeconomic status are health care disparities for patients seeking care for prolapse.
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Gonzalez DC, Khorsandi S, Mathew M, Enemchukwu E, Syan R. A Systematic Review of Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Female Pelvic Floor Disorders. Urology 2021; 163:8-15. [PMID: 34627869 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2021.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Numerous studies have investigated the influence of health disparities among women with pelvic floor disorders with varied results. Racial/ethnic disparities, in particular, inconsistently indicate differences in prevalence of disease, disease severity, and treatment outcomes. We aim to review the body of literature examining racial/ethnic disparities in pelvic floor disorders, including overactive bladder, stress urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and interstitial cystitis. A better understanding of these disparities may help guide clinicians, researchers, and advocates in providing improved education, outreach opportunities, and access to care in minority women with pelvic floor disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel C Gonzalez
- Department of Urology, Division of Female Urology, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | - Shayan Khorsandi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Urogynecology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Megan Mathew
- Department of Urology, Division of Female Urology, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | - Ekene Enemchukwu
- Department of Urology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Raveen Syan
- Department of Urology, Division of Female Urology, University of Miami, Miami, FL.
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Racial and ethnic representation in primary research contributing to pelvic organ prolapse treatment guidelines. Int Urogynecol J 2021; 32:2959-2967. [PMID: 34570246 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-021-04983-9] [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: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS To evaluate whether the studies contributing to the national treatment guidelines on pelvic organ prolapse adequately represent the racial and/or ethnic makeup of the American population. METHODS This analysis examines the racial and ethnic makeup of all primary study cohorts contributing to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists/American Urogynecologic Society Practice Bulletin No. 214 on pelvic organ prolapse. References were excluded if they lacked a primary patient population or were from outside the US. Mean proportional representation of racial/ethnic groups was compared to the 2018 United States Census data on race/ethnicity. The representation quotient was also calculated to evaluate for relative representation of each group. Descriptive statistics were used. RESULTS Of the 110 references, 53 primary studies were included in the final analysis with 30 studies reporting on race/ethnicity. On average, 82% (SD = 15%) of study populations were White, while Blacks, Hispanics, and Asians represented 67% (SD = 7%), 4% (SD = 8%), and < 1% (SD = 1%), respectively, differing significantly from the 2018 US Census (p < 0.01.) The representation quotients for White women was 1.36, demonstrating a 36% overrepresentation, while Black, Hispanic, and Asian women were underrepresented among studies of all evidence levels, with representative quotients of 0.50, 0.23, and 0.09, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates a significant underrepresentation of non-White populations in primary cohorts of studies contributing to the ACOG/AUGS Practice Bulletin No. 214 on POP. This analysis reinforces that more efforts are required to include and report on racial and ethnically diverse cohorts to better serve all patients.
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Mou T, Warner K, Brown O, Yeh C, Beestrum M, Kenton K, Emi Bretschneider C. Prevalence of pelvic organ prolapse among US racial populations: A systematic review and meta-analysis of population-based screening studies. Neurourol Urodyn 2021; 40:1098-1106. [PMID: 33834519 DOI: 10.1002/nau.24672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To determine the differences in pooled prevalence rates of symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse (POP) across different US racial/ethnic groups using existing screening-based epidemiologic studies. METHODS A systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, and Scopus was conducted to retrieve eligible studies. We included studies that identified POP by either physical exam or questionnaire, conducted in non-gynecologic care-seeking settings, and had a representative sample of US community-dwelling women from more than one racial/ethnic group with prevalence rates reported for each population. Meta-analysis was performed with the pooled estimates calculated, and χ 2 tests were performed to examine the associations between race and POP prevalence. RESULTS Of the 2604 studies reviewed, 5 were included. One study used physical exam findings while others used questionnaires to identify POP. All but one study demonstrated statistically significant differences in POP prevalence rates based on race/ethnicity. The overall pooled POP prevalence rates were determined for each racial/ethnic group-White women: 10.76% (95% confidence interval [CI], 10.30%-11.22%); Hispanic women: 6.55% (95% CI, 5.83%-7.28%); Black women: 3.80% (95% CI, 3.22%-4.38%); and Asian American women: 3.40% (95% CI, 2.09%-4.71%). There was a significant difference in the pooled prevalence rates among these four racial/ethnic groups (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Our study found that White women had the highest pooled POP prevalence rate overall, while Hispanic women had the highest pooled prevalence among minority women. Additionally, American Indians and Pacific Islanders were absent from the current prolapse epidemiologic literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsung Mou
- Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Kristina Warner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Oluwateniola Brown
- Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Chen Yeh
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Molly Beestrum
- Galter Health Sciences Library, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Kimberly Kenton
- Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Carol Emi Bretschneider
- Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Brito KS, Madueke-Laveaux OS, Glass D, Hellman KM, Gao G, Iyer S. Racial Distribution and Characterization of Pelvic Organ Prolapse in a Hospital-Based Subspecialty Clinic. Female Pelvic Med Reconstr Surg 2021; 27:147-150. [PMID: 33620896 DOI: 10.1097/spv.0000000000001016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Prior literature has suggested a decreased prevalence of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in Black women. We sought to describe POP rates by race, investigate whether specific types of prolapse differ based on race, and investigate the role of uterine weight and fibroids on POP. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of new patients seen between April 2017 and April 2019 at a tertiary urogynecology clinic. Variables collected included POP quantification, race, age, smoking history, medical history, gravity, parity, vaginal delivery, hysterectomy, fibroids, and uterine weight. χ2 tests were used to compare the proportions of types of POP between Black and non-Black women. Binary and ordinal logistic regression tested the association between types of prolapse and race, adjusting for covariates. RESULTS Nine hundred thirty-six patients were identified by ICD codes, 768 met inclusion criteria. There were 85.3% of the women identified as non-Black and 14.7% identified as Black. There were 39.8% of the Black women that had a fibroid diagnosis compared with 20.8% of non-Black women (P < 0.001). Black women had a higher median uterine weight, 112.2 g versus 56 g (P = 0.002), and median fibroid size, 3.4 cm versus 1.92 cm (P = 0.0001). 56.9% of women presented with anterior prolapse. No difference was found in POP type between Black and non-Black women after adjusting for age, body mass index, parity, and delivery route (P = 0.45). CONCLUSIONS Black women had increased body mass index, rates of comorbidities (diabetes and hypertension), higher uterine weight and fibroid size than non-Black women in our study. However, there was no significant difference in POP type based on race.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dianne Glass
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago
| | | | - Guimin Gao
- Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Shilpa Iyer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago
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Qualitative Analysis of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs About Pessary Use Among Spanish-Speaking Women on the US-Mexico Border. Female Pelvic Med Reconstr Surg 2021; 27:e96-e100. [PMID: 32149869 DOI: 10.1097/spv.0000000000000825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore the knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs related to pessary use in Spanish-speaking women along the US-Mexico border. METHODS Spanish-speaking women with symptoms of vaginal bulge were recruited from the urogynecology/gynecology clinics at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso to participate in moderated focus groups. Discussion topics included knowledge of prolapse/pessaries, pros/cons of pessaries, alternatives, and prolapse surgery. Audio-recorded group discussions were transcribed verbatim, and qualitative analysis completed by independent review using grounded theory methodology. Common themes were identified and then aggregated to form consensus concepts, agreed upon by the reviewers. RESULTS Twenty-nine Spanish-speaking women participated in 6 focus group discussions. Approximately half of women reported little or no prior knowledge about pessaries. Three main themes were identified from analysis: knowledge/perceptions, misinformation/misconceptions, and surgery-related concerns. Concepts identified from common themes included limited knowledge of pessaries, confusing "pessary" with "mesh," willingness to try pessaries in order to avoid surgery, desire to try pessary if it was recommended by physician, limited efficacy or complications of surgery, and mesh-related concerns. Interestingly, some women reported that pessaries appear to be a treatment more often offered in the United States rather than in Mexico. CONCLUSIONS Most participants showed a willingness to try a pessary for symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse in an effort to avoid surgery, despite expressing limited knowledge about this treatment. Physician recommendations and risks of pessary use influence their likelihood of trying a pessary. These concepts serve as focus points for effective pessary counseling to help improve education and informed decision making in this patient population.
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Rada MP, Jones S, Falconi G, Milhem Haddad J, Betschart C, Pergialiotis V, Doumouchtsis SK. A systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative studies on pelvic organ prolapse for the development of core outcome sets. Neurourol Urodyn 2020; 39:880-889. [PMID: 32040864 DOI: 10.1002/nau.24297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
AIMS In the current climate of evidence-based health care, the aim of this meta-synthesis was to collect and systematically analyse data from primary qualitative studies on pelvic organ prolapse (POP), to identify patient-centered perspectives on the natural course of POP. Information acquired in this study may be useful for ongoing research towards the development of core outcome sets (COS) in pelvic floor disorders. METHODS A CHORUS Working Group performed a standardized search of three different databases (Medline, Embase, Scopus), from inception to October 2019. We selected qualitative studies on women's perspectives on POP that were published in the English language. Three reviewers independently evaluated the quality of eligible papers and highlighted recurrent themes based on patient perspectives. RESULTS Eighteen qualitative studies including a total of 497 patients were assessed in this analysis. Our study revealed five superordinate themes, recurrently encountered in qualitative studies on POP: awareness of POP (6 studies), communication (9 studies), treatments (10 studies), effects on quality of life (6 studies), and self-image (3 studies). Five out of 10 quality criteria were met by all the studies included, based on an assessment performed using the critical appraisal skills program. CONCLUSIONS This is the first synthesis of qualitative studies that address POP-related experiences of women, highlighting five superordinate themes, of which treatment was the most commonly reported one. This synthesis' findings may guide quantitative research priorities and will hopefully contribute to the development of a COS for POP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Patricia Rada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, Epsom, UK.,2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Stephanie Jones
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, Epsom, UK.,2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Gabriele Falconi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, San Bortolo Hospital, Vicenza, Italy
| | - Jorge Milhem Haddad
- Urogynaecology Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cornelia Betschart
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Vasilios Pergialiotis
- Laboratory of Experimental Surgery and Surgical Research N. S. Christeas, Athens University Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Stergios K Doumouchtsis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, Epsom, UK.,School of Medicine, American University of the Caribbean, Pembroke Pines, Florida.,Laboratory of Experimental Surgery and Surgical Research N. S. Christeas, Athens University Medical School, Athens, Greece.,Institute of Medical and Biomedical Education, St George's University of London, London, UK
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Desire for Continued Pessary Use Among Women of Hispanic and Non-Hispanic Ethnic Backgrounds for Pelvic Floor Disorders. Female Pelvic Med Reconstr Surg 2019; 25:172-177. [PMID: 30807423 PMCID: PMC9969967 DOI: 10.1097/spv.0000000000000652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to describe the association between patient ethnicity/race and desire to continue using a pessary for the treatment of pelvic floor disorders. METHODS We performed a secondary analysis of a randomized trial among women presenting for pessary fitting. The primary outcome was the desire to continue using a pessary at 3 months. Bacterial vaginosis by Nugent score and vaginal symptoms (discharge, itching, pain, sores) were also evaluated. Logistic or multiple linear regression was performed with correction for body mass index, education level, parity, Charlson Comorbidity Index, and randomization to TrimoSan gel. RESULTS One hundred fourteen women (41 Hispanic and 73 non-Hispanic) were eligible for this analysis. Women self-identified as white (65/114; 57%), Hispanic (41/114, 36%), Asian (3/114; 2.6%), Native American (4/114; 3.5%), and "other" (1/114, 0.9%) race, with no self-identified African American women (0/114) meeting the inclusion criteria. No significant difference in desire to continue pessary use was found between Hispanic and non-Hispanic women (58.5% vs 63%; P = 0.69; corrected odds ratio [cOR], 1.11; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.43-2.90) or across races (P = 0.89). Hispanic women had significantly higher risk of bacterial vaginosis (34% vs 16%; P = 0.04; cOR, 2.91; 95% CI, 1.01-8.39), higher Nugent scores (5.4 ± 2.3 vs 4.3 ± 2.3; P = 0.02; corrected coefficient, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.10-2.10), and more vaginal pain (17.1% vs 2.8%; P = 0.01; cOR, 9.14; 95% CI, 1.37-61.17) at 3 months. CONCLUSIONS Despite increased vaginal pain and vaginal microbiome disturbances in Hispanic women using a pessary, no significant differences in the desire to continue using the pessary existed.
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Perioperative Complication Rates After Colpopexy in African American and Hispanic Women. Female Pelvic Med Reconstr Surg 2018; 26:597-602. [DOI: 10.1097/spv.0000000000000633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Hammad FT, Elbiss HM, Osman N. The degree of bother and healthcare seeking behaviour in women with symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse from a developing gulf country. BMC WOMENS HEALTH 2018; 18:77. [PMID: 29843703 PMCID: PMC5975445 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-018-0570-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Background The healthcare-seeking behaviour of women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is affected by several factors including the cultural background. There is limited number of studies which addressed the healthcare-seeking behaviour in women with POP. The aim of this study was to determine the degree of bother, social impact and healthcare seeking behaviour of symptoms of POP in one of the Gulf countries and compare the results to published data from other areas. Methods All women who attended the three family development centres in our city between January 2010 and January 2011 and who had symptoms suggestive of POP were included in the study. The data was collected by well-trained interviewers. Results One hundred twenty-seven women reported symptoms of POP (mean age: 38.2 years; range: 18–71). Out of these, 111 (87.4%) had at least one activity (physical, social or prayers) or sexual relationship affected by POP symptoms. In 49 women (38%), the effect on at least one of these activities or relationships has been described as moderate and in 18 women (14%), the effect was severe. Sixty-nine women (54%) did not seek medical advice due to: embarrassment to see medical doctors (51%), the belief that POP is normal among women (51%), hope for spontaneous resolution (48%), embarrassment to see male doctors (33%) and unawareness of the existence of medical treatment (30%). On univariate analysis, the need to insert the finger in the vagina to empty the bladder or bowel and the interference of symptoms with physical activities, had significantly determined healthcare seeking attitude (P < 0.05 for all). However, on multivariate analysis interference with physical activities was the only significant determinant (P = 0.04). Conclusions Although POP had affected the quality of life in the majority of the affected women, unlike some other societies, more than half failed to seek healthcare advice mainly due to shyness and embarrassment and lack of proper knowledge about the condition. Interference of symptoms with physical activities was the main significant determinants of healthcare-seeking behaviour. Additional teaching campaigns designed according to cultural backgrounds in each society are required to address these sensitive issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fayez T Hammad
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, PO Box 17666, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Hassan M Elbiss
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nawal Osman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Health Care Disparities Among English-Speaking and Spanish-Speaking Women With Pelvic Organ Prolapse at Public and Private Hospitals: What Are the Barriers? Female Pelvic Med Reconstr Surg 2017; 22:460-466. [PMID: 27636216 DOI: 10.1097/spv.0000000000000315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to compare perceptions and barriers between Spanish-speaking and English-speaking women in public and private hospitals being treated for pelvic organ prolapse (POP). METHODS Eight focus groups, 4 in English and 4 in Spanish, were conducted at 3 institutions with care in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery. Standardized questions were asked regarding patients' emotions to when they initially noticed the POP, if they sought family support, and their response to the diagnosis and treatment. Transcripts were analyzed using grounded theory qualitative methods. RESULTS Thirty-three women were Spanish-speaking and 25 were English-speaking. Spanish speakers were younger (P = 0.0469) and less likely to have a high school diploma (P < 0.0001) than English speakers. Spanish-speaking women had more concerns that the bulge or treatments could lead to cancer, were more resistant to treatment options, and were less likely to be offered surgery. Women in the private hospital desired more information, were less embarrassed, and were more likely to be offered surgery as first-line treatment. The concept emerged that patient care for POP varied based on socioeconomic status and language and suggested the presence of disparities in care for underserved women with POP. CONCLUSIONS The discrepancies in care for Spanish-speaking women and women being treated at public hospitals suggest that there are disparities in care for POP treatment for underserved women. These differences may be secondary to profit-driven pressures from private hospitals or language barriers, low socioeconomic status, low health literacy, and barriers to health care.
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