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Alqahtani JS, Arowosegbe A, Aldhahir AM, Alghamdi SM, Alqarni AA, Siraj RA, AlDraiwiesh IA, Alwafi H, Oyelade T. Prevalence and burden of loneliness in COPD: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Respir Med 2024; 233:107768. [PMID: 39142595 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2024.107768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loneliness poses significant public health concerns on a global scale. Being alone and lacking social connections have been proven to impact prognosis and response to treatment in different diseases, including COPD. Yet, the prevalence and burden of loneliness on COPD outcomes remain unclear. METHODS Various relevant databases were systematically searched in March 2024. The quality of the studies included was assessed using a modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The random effect model was used to compute the pooled prevalence and associated 95 % confidence intervals (95%CI) of loneliness and living alone in COPD patients. RESULTS After reviewing 256 studies, 11 studies, including 4644 COPD patients, met the inclusion criteria and were included in the systematic review. Of the included studies, 5/11 (45.5%) reported the prevalence of loneliness or lone living among COPD patients and were included in the meta-analysis. The prevalence of loneliness and lone living among COPD patients was 32% (95% CI = 16%-48%) and 29% (95% CI = 16%-41%), respectively. The Three-item UCLA loneliness scale was the most often used loneliness assessment tool (5/11, 45.5%). Loneliness and lone living were associated with poor outcomes, including emergency department visits, readmissions, depression, and reduced pulmonary rehabilitation response. CONCLUSION Despite one-third of COPD patients experiencing loneliness, researchers have not consistently documented its impact on COPD outcomes. More studies are needed to assess the impact of loneliness on COPD and how to mitigate the negative effects on patients' outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaber S Alqahtani
- Department of Respiratory Care, Prince Sultan Military College of Health Sciences, Dammam, 34313, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Abayomi Arowosegbe
- School of Arts & Creative Technologies, University of Bolton, Bolton, BL3 5AB, United Kingdom; Information School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S10 2SJ, United Kingdom
| | - Abdulelah M Aldhahir
- Respiratory Therapy Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saeed M Alghamdi
- Respiratory Care Program, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, 24382, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah A Alqarni
- Department of Respiratory Therapy, Faculty of Medical Rehabilitation Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rayan A Siraj
- Respiratory Therapy Department, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ibrahim A AlDraiwiesh
- Department of Respiratory Care, Prince Sultan Military College of Health Sciences, Dammam, 34313, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan Alwafi
- Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al Qura University, 21514, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tope Oyelade
- UCL Division of Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Lee CL, Lin YC, Kuo TH. The impact of social partners: investigating mixed-strain housing effects on aging in female mice. Biogerontology 2024:10.1007/s10522-024-10139-1. [PMID: 39261412 DOI: 10.1007/s10522-024-10139-1] [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: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
Aging is a multifaceted process characterized by the gradual decline of physiological functions and can be modulated by various internal and external factors. While social interactions have been shown to affect behaviors and physiology in different species, the impact of social partners on aging-related phenotypes and lifespan in mice remains understudied. To address this question, we investigated various aging-related traits and lifespan in two mouse strains, C57BL/6J and BALB/c, under two different housing conditions: mixed-strain and same-strain housing. Analyses using a Generalized Linear Model revealed significant differences between the two strains in several phenotypes, including metabolic, anxiety-like, and electrocardiographic traits. However, surprisingly, housing conditions did not significantly affect most of the examined parameters, including overall lifespan. Only 3 out of 25 traits-body weight change in a metabolic cage, running wheel activity, and survival days of a quartiles of mice with middle lifespans-were influenced by housing conditions in a strain-dependent manner. Together, our study suggested a minimal influence of co-housing with social partners from different genetic backgrounds on aging-related phenotypes. This result demonstrates the feasibility of mixed housing for mouse husbandry and, more importantly, provides valuable insights for future research on the social influences on the aging process in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Lin Lee
- Institute of Systems Neuroscience, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Yu-Chiao Lin
- Institute of Systems Neuroscience, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Tsung-Han Kuo
- Institute of Systems Neuroscience, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan, Republic of China.
- Department of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan, Republic of China.
- Brain Research Center, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan, Republic of China.
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Lam MI, Bai W, Feng Y, Zhang Q, Zhang Y, Jackson T, Rao SY, Ho TI, Su Z, Cheung T, Lopes Lao EP, Sha S, Xiang YT. Comparing network structures of depressive and anxiety symptoms between demographically-matched heart disease and heart disease free samples using propensity score matching: Findings from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS). J Psychosom Res 2024; 187:111910. [PMID: 39255588 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2024.111910] [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: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older adults with heart disease often experience higher rates of comorbid anxiety and depression. This study examined depression and anxiety network structures among older adults with heart disease and their heart disease free peers. METHODS Network analyses of secondary cross-sectional data from the 2017 to 2018 wave of CLHLS were used to construct groups of older adults with and without heart disease using propensity score matching. Depression and anxiety symptoms were assessed using Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale and Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale, respectively. Central symptoms and bridge symptoms were identified using expected influence. RESULTS 1689 older adults with heart disease and matched control sample of 1689 older adults without heart disease were included. The prevalence and severity of depression and anxiety were significantly higher in older adults with heart disease compared to the control group. There was no significant difference in overall structures of depression and anxiety network models between two the groups. Key central symptoms and bridge symptoms within these groups were highly similar; GAD 2 "Uncontrollable worrying" and GAD 4 "Trouble relaxing" were identified as the most central symptoms, while GAD 1 "Nervousness" and CESD 1 "Feeling bothered" were identified as key bridge symptoms across both network models. CONCLUSION Depression and anxiety are more prevalent in older adults with heart disease than demographically-matched heart disease free controls. However, network structures of these symptoms do not differ between two groups. Accordingly, depression and anxiety psychosocial interventions developed for older adults without heart disease may also benefit older adults with heart disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Ieng Lam
- Kiang Wu Nursing College of Macau, Macao SAR, China; Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, & Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China; Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China
| | - Wei Bai
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Jilin University, 1163 Xinmin Street, Changchun, Jilin Province 130021, China
| | - Yuan Feng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Qinge Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanbo Zhang
- Adult Surgical ICU, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100037, China
| | - Todd Jackson
- Department of Psychology, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China
| | - Shu-Ying Rao
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, & Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China
| | - Tin-Ian Ho
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, & Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China
| | - Zhaohui Su
- School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Teris Cheung
- School of Nursing, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | | | - Sha Sha
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Yu-Tao Xiang
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, & Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China; Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China.
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Kwon OW, Hwang Park Y, Kim D, Kwon HY, Yang HJ. Korean Red Ginseng and Rb1 restore altered social interaction, gene expressions in the medial prefrontal cortex, and gut metabolites under post-weaning social isolation in mice. J Ginseng Res 2024; 48:481-493. [PMID: 39263309 PMCID: PMC11385175 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2024.03.005] [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] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Post-weaning social isolation (SI) reduces sociability, gene expressions including myelin genes in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), and alters microbiome compositions in rodent models. Korean Red Ginseng (KRG) and its major ginsenoside Rb1 have been reported to affect myelin formation and gut metabolites. However, their effects under post-weaning SI have not been investigated. This study investigated the effects of KRG and Rb1 on sociability, gene expressions in the mPFC, and gut metabolites under post-weaning SI. Methods C57BL/6J mice were administered with water or KRG (150, 400 mg/kg) or Rb1 (0.1 mg/kg) under SI or regular environment (RE) for 2 weeks during the post-weaning period (P21-P35). After this period, mice underwent a sociability test, and then brains and ceca were collected for qPCR/immunohistochemistry and non-targeted metabolomics, respectively. Results SI reduced sociability compared to RE; however, KRG (400 mg/kg) and Rb1 significantly restored sociability under SI. In the mPFC, expressions of genes related to myelin, neurotransmitter, and oxidative stress were significantly reduced in mice under SI compared to RE conditions. Under SI, KRG and Rb1 recovered the altered expressions of several genes in the mPFC. In gut metabolomics, 313 metabolites were identified as significant among 3027 detected metabolites. Among the significantly changed metabolites in SI, some were recovered by KRG or Rb1, including metabolites related to stress axis, inflammation, and DNA damage. Conclusion Altered sociability, gene expression levels in the mPFC, and gut metabolites induced by two weeks of post-weaning SI were at least partially recovered by KRG and Rb1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oh Wook Kwon
- Department of Integrative Biosciences, University of Brain Education, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngja Hwang Park
- Metabolomics Laboratory, College of Pharmacy, Korea University, Sejong, Republic of Korea
- Omics Research Center, Korea University, Sejong, Republic of Korea
| | - Dalnim Kim
- Korea Institute of Brain Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyog Young Kwon
- Soonchunhyang Institute of Medi-Bio Science, Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Jeong Yang
- Department of Integrative Biosciences, University of Brain Education, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
- Korea Institute of Brain Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Integrative Healthcare, University of Brain Education, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
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Kähkönen O, Vähänikkilä H, Paukkonen L, Oikarinen A. Extension of the theory of adherence to treatment in patients with coronary heart disease. Chronic Dis Transl Med 2024; 10:227-237. [PMID: 39027194 PMCID: PMC11252433 DOI: 10.1002/cdt3.102] [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] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Increased knowledge of the concept of adherence is needed for development patient-centered care, nursing interventions, and guidelines for patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). The aim of this study was to test and extend the Theory of Adherence to Treatment regarding informational support in patients with CHD. Methods The study utilized an explanatory and descriptive survey. The study was conducted in 2013 and involved 416 patients in five hospitals in Finland. The Adherence of Patients with Chronic Disease instrument and the Social Support for People with CHD instrument were used. The model was tested using structural equation modeling (SEM). Results SEM confirmed direct associations between motivation (β = 0.49, p < 0.001) and results of care (β = 0.29, p < 0.01), and indirect associations between sense of normality, fear of complications, support from nurses and next of kin, and informational support to adherence to a healthy lifestyle and medication. Informational support included information and advice on CHD risk factors, physical exercise, chest pain, medication, continuum of care, and rehabilitation. Indirect standardized path coefficients varied between 0.14 and 0.45. The model explained 45% of adherence to a healthy lifestyle and medication. Conclusion The results of this study showed that informational support is a justified extension to the original Theory of Adherence to Treatment in Patients with CHD. Informational support seems to offer a new perspective that can be used to develop patient-centered nursing interventions and thus support adherence to treatment by patients with a lifelong disease such as CHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Outi Kähkönen
- Department of Nursing ScienceUniversity of Eastern FinlandKuopioFinland
| | - Hannu Vähänikkilä
- Northern Finland Birth Cohorts, Arctic Biobank, Infrastructure for Population Studies, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of OuluOuluFinland
| | - Leila Paukkonen
- Reseach Unit of Health Sciences and Technology, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of OuluOuluFinland
- Medical Research Center Oulu (MRC Oulu), Faculty of medicineUniversity of OuluOuluFinland
| | - Anne Oikarinen
- Reseach Unit of Health Sciences and Technology, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of OuluOuluFinland
- Medical Research Center Oulu (MRC Oulu), Faculty of medicineUniversity of OuluOuluFinland
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Vallée A. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the socioeconomic gradient of hypertension. J Public Health Policy 2024; 45:413-430. [PMID: 38831023 DOI: 10.1057/s41271-024-00491-4] [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] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought into sharp focus the impact of socioeconomic factors on hypertension outcomes. This review examines the implications of the pandemic on the socioeconomic gradient of hypertension and explores the physiological and pathophysiological processes underlying this relationship. Changes in socioeconomic factors have disproportionately affected individuals with lower socioeconomic status, leading to adverse hypertension outcomes. The pandemic-related stressors, coupled with social isolation and disrupted daily routines, have contributed to elevated stress levels among individuals, particularly those with lower socioeconomic status. Equitable access to healthcare, enhancing health literacy and patient empowerment, and addressing social determinants of health are essential components of hypertension management strategies. By recognizing the specific challenges faced by individuals with lower socioeconomic status and implementing targeted interventions, public health efforts can help reduce the socioeconomic gradient of hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Vallée
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Foch Hospital, 92150, Suresnes, France.
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7
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Ding L, Dai R, Qian J, Zhang H, Miao J, Wang J, Tan X, Li Y. Psycho-social dimensions of cardiovascular risk: exploring the impact of social isolation and loneliness in middle-aged and older adults. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:2355. [PMID: 39210322 PMCID: PMC11363651 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19885-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major health concern for middle-aged and older adults, with lifestyle and metabolic risk factors well-studied. However, the role of psychosocial factors in CVD remains underexplored. OBJECTIVE This study aims to delve into the connection between psychosocial factors and the occurrence of CVD. METHODS We utilized data from the UK Biobank, a large-scale study covering adults aged 38 to 73 recruited from various centers across the UK between 2006 and 2010. We employed Cox proportional hazards models to analyze the relationship between social isolation, loneliness, and incident CVD. CVD diagnoses were confirmed through hospital records and death-register data. Additionally, we conducted mediation analyses to assess the impact of low-grade inflammation. RESULTS The study encompassed 427,942 participants free from CVD, 55.8% of whom are women. High levels of social isolation and loneliness were linked to a higher risk of CVD (HRs 1.11, 95% CI 1.06-1.16; HRs 1.17, 95% CI 1.11-1.23). Depression also emerged as a predictor of CVD onset (HRs 1.25, 95% CI 1.19-1.31), with each psychosocial factor independently contributing to increased CVD risk. Mediation analyses pinpointed inflammation as a crucial mediator, especially for loneliness (indirect effect proportion: 4.7%). CONCLUSIONS This study underscores the significance of psychosocial factors in relation to CVD. Integrating assessments for social isolation, loneliness, and depression into routine healthcare could potentially aid in CVD prevention among middle-aged and elderly individuals. This study underscores the significance of psychosocial factors in relation to CVD, emphasizing the association between social isolation or loneliness and the heightened risk of CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilu Ding
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Medical College, 481 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Ruoqi Dai
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Medical College, 481 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Jing Qian
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Medical College, 481 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Medical College, 481 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Jingyou Miao
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Medical College, 481 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Medical College, 481 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Xiao Tan
- Department of Big Data in Health Science, Zhejiang University School of Public Health and Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Yingjun Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Medical College, 481 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
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Hinca J, Dornowski M. Effects of Electroencephalogram Neurofeedback Intervention on Blood C-Reactive Protein Levels in Astronauts Attending 2-Week Long Analog Moon Mission. Brain Sci 2024; 14:843. [PMID: 39199534 PMCID: PMC11352250 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14080843] [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: 07/16/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The human organism is affected by multiple stressors every single day, especially during extremely demanding activities. It needs a method to regulate itself better. One of the stressors that is affecting humans is social isolation. The state of prolonged isolation happens during space missions. In this study, 40 analog astronauts attended a two-week-long mission. The experimental group had EEG neurofeedback training intervention performed on a daily basis, while the control group remained isolated without neurofeedback. The results let us take this non-invasive intervention under consideration, while debating the methods to lower the physiological stress reaction in humans that are exposed to extremely hard circumstances. Although not statistically significant, the trends observed give us direction towards other research to confirm EEG neurofeedback as a method to lower cell stress response levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Hinca
- Department of Physical Culture, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland;
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Niino K, Patapoff MA, Mausbach BT, Liu H, Moore AA, Han BH, Palmer BW, Jester DJ. Development of loneliness and social isolation after spousal loss: A systematic review of longitudinal studies on widowhood. J Am Geriatr Soc 2024. [PMID: 39175111 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.19156] [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: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spousal loss is a stressful life event that is associated with loneliness and social isolation, both of which affect mental and physical health. The primary objective of this paper was to synthesize longitudinal studies that investigated loneliness and social isolation in widowhood. METHODS A systematic search of the literature was conducted using three electronic databases. 26 longitudinal studies published through June 2024 were included for further analysis. Participant characteristics, study design, and key findings were extracted. RESULTS Most studies were from the United States or Europe, included more widows than widowers, and assessed loneliness in older adults aged >60 years. Loneliness peaked directly following spousal death, but findings were inconsistent regarding the lasting effects of widowhood. Heterogeneity in the longitudinal trajectories of loneliness was noted, with studies showing linear increases, decreases, or curvilinear relationships over time. Several factors modified the relationship between widowhood and loneliness, including volunteerism, military experience, income, and age. Widowers consistently reported greater loneliness and worse social isolation when compared with widows. Few studies investigated social isolation specifically, but those that did found that social isolation may decrease in widowhood. CONCLUSIONS As the world grapples with a social pandemic of loneliness and social isolation, widowed adults may be uniquely affected. Few studies investigated the longitudinal trajectory of loneliness and especially social isolation in widowhood, and those that did found heterogenous results. Future work is needed to understand why some widowed adults are uniquely affected by feelings of loneliness and social isolation while others are not, and whether potentially modifiable factors that moderate or mediate this relationship could be leveraged by psychosocial interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerri Niino
- John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Molly A Patapoff
- Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Brent T Mausbach
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Hui Liu
- Center on Aging and the Life Course, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
- Department of Sociology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Alison A Moore
- Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Division of Geriatrics, Gerontology, and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Benjamin H Han
- Division of Geriatrics, Gerontology, and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, Jennifer Moreno Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Barton W Palmer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), San Diego, California, USA
| | - Dylan J Jester
- Women's Operational Military Exposure Network Center of Excellence (WOMEN CoE), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA
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Corbin IM, Dhand A. Unshared Minds, Decaying Worlds: Towards a Pathology of Chronic Loneliness. THE JOURNAL OF MEDICINE AND PHILOSOPHY 2024; 49:354-366. [PMID: 38815253 PMCID: PMC11237889 DOI: 10.1093/jmp/jhae020] [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: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The moment when a person's actual relationships fall short of desired relationships is commonly identified as the etiological moment of chronic loneliness, which can lead to physical and psychological effects like depression, worse recovery from illness and increased mortality. But, this etiology fails to explain the nature and severe impact of loneliness. Here, we use philosophical analysis and neuroscience to show that human beings develop and maintain our world-picture (our sense of what is true, important, and good) through joint attention and action, motivated by friendship, in the Aristotelian sense of "other selves" who share a sense of the true and the good, and desire the good for each other as much as for themselves. The true etiological event of loneliness is the moment one's world-picture becomes unshared. The pathogenesis is a resultant decay of our world-picture, with brain and behavior changes following as sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amar Dhand
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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11
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Liu JM, Gao M, Zhang R, Wong NML, Wu J, Chan CCH, Lee TMC. A machine-learning approach to model risk and protective factors of vulnerability to depression. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 175:374-380. [PMID: 38772128 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.04.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
There are multiple risk and protective factors for depression. The association between these factors with vulnerability to depression is unclear. Such knowledge is an important insight into assessing risk for developing depression for precision interventions. Based on the behavioral data of 496 participants (all unmarried and not cohabiting, with a college education level or above), we applied machine-learning approaches to model risk and protective factors in estimating depression and its symptoms. Then, we employed Random Forest to identify important factors which were then used to differentiate participants who had high risk of depression from those who had low risk. Results revealed that risk and protective factors could significantly estimate depression and depressive symptoms. Feature selection revealed four key factors including three risk factors (brooding, perceived loneliness, and perceived stress) and one protective factor (resilience). The classification model built by the four factors achieved an ROC-AUC score of 75.50% to classify the high- and low-risk groups, which was comparable to the classification performance based on all risk and protective factors (ROC-AUC = 77.83%). Based on the selected four factors, we generated a mood vulnerability index useful for identifying people's risk for depression. Our findings provide potential clinical insights for developing quick screening tools for mood disorders and potential targets for intervention programs designed to improve depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- June M Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; Laboratory of Neuropsychology and Human Neuroscience, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Mengxia Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; Laboratory of Neuropsychology and Human Neuroscience, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ruibin Zhang
- Cognitive Control and Brain Healthy Laboratory, Department of Psychology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Nichol M L Wong
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; Laboratory of Neuropsychology and Human Neuroscience, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; Department of Psychology, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jingsong Wu
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Chetwyn C H Chan
- Department of Psychology, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Tatia M C Lee
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; Laboratory of Neuropsychology and Human Neuroscience, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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Wright T, Solmi F, Ajnakina O, Ingram E, Kandola A, Lee S, Iob E, Steptoe A, Thomas B, Lewis G. The role of loneliness in the association between sexual orientation and depressive symptoms among older adults: A prospective cohort study. J Affect Disord 2024; 356:137-144. [PMID: 38593941 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aims to understand the mechanisms contributing to the elevated risk of depression among sexual minority older adults compared to heterosexuals. Specifically, the role of loneliness as a potential mediator is investigated to inform targeted interventions for preventing depression in sexual minority populations. METHODS Data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, focusing on adults aged over 50, were analysed. Sexual orientation (sexual minority or heterosexual) and loneliness scores (UCLA scale) were assessed at wave six (2010-2011), while depressive symptoms (CESD) were assessed at wave seven (2013-14). Linear regression models and mediation analyses, using g-computation formula and adjusted for confounders, were conducted. RESULTS The sample included 6794 participants, with 478 (7.0 %) identifying as sexual minorities. After adjustments, sexual minorities scored higher on depressive symptoms at wave seven (mean difference): 0.23, 95 % CI 0.07 to 0.39) and loneliness at wave six (MD: 0.27, 95 % CI 0.08 to 0.46). Loneliness was positively associated with depressive symptoms (coefficient: 0.27, 95 % CI 0.26 to 0.29). In mediation analyses, loneliness explained 15 % of the association between sexual orientation and subsequent depressive symptoms. LIMITATIONS The dataset used sexual behaviour rather than desire and identity, potentially skewing representation of sexual minorities. Additionally, transgender older adults were not included due to limited gender diversity reported within the ELSA dataset. CONCLUSIONS Loneliness appears to be a significant modifiable mechanism contributing to the heightened risk of depressive symptoms in sexual minority older adults compared with their heterosexual counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talen Wright
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7NF, United Kingdom.
| | - Francesca Solmi
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7NF, United Kingdom
| | - Olesya Ajnakina
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, Kings College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth Ingram
- Department of Applied Health Research, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London WC1E 7HB, United Kingdom
| | - Aaron Kandola
- MRC Unit for Lifelong Health and Ageing, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen Lee
- Opening Doors, Unit 4.1b Resource for London, 356 Holloway Road, London N7 6PA, United Kingdom
| | - Eleonora Iob
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Steptoe
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, United Kingdom
| | - Ben Thomas
- Opening Doors, Unit 4.1b Resource for London, 356 Holloway Road, London N7 6PA, United Kingdom
| | - Gemma Lewis
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7NF, United Kingdom
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13
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Lyu C, Siu K, Xu I, Osman I, Zhong J. Social Isolation Changes and Long-Term Outcomes Among Older Adults. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2424519. [PMID: 39046736 PMCID: PMC11270134 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.24519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance While the association between cross-sectional measures of social isolation and adverse health outcomes is well established, less is known about the association between changes in social isolation and health outcomes. Objective To assess changes of social isolation and mortality, physical function, cognitive function, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and stroke. Design, Setting, and Participants In a cohort design, social isolation changes in 4 years and subsequent risk of mortality and other outcomes were assessed using the 13 649 eligible Health and Retirement Study (HRS) respondents from the 2006 to 2020 waves. Data were analyzed from October 11, 2023, to April 26, 2024. Exposure The main exposure was the change in social isolation measured by the Steptoe 5-item Social Isolation Index from the initial assessment to a second assessment conducted 4 years later. Participants were classified into decreased isolation, stable, or increased isolation groups, stratified by their baseline isolation status. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcomes were mortality, self-reported dependencies in activities of daily living, Alzheimer disease and Alzheimer disease-related dementia, CVD, and stroke. Dementia, CVD, and stroke were assessed using HRS-linked Medicare records. Incidence rates (IRs) of each group were estimated and a Cox proportional hazards regression model was used, with inverse-probability treatment weighting to adjust for confounders. Results Among 13 649 participants (mean [SD] age at baseline, 65.3 [9.5] years; 8011 [58.7%] women) isolated at baseline, those with increased isolation had higher mortality (n = 693; IR = 68.19; 95% CI, 60.89-76.36 per 1000 person-years) than those who were stable (n = 1796; IR = 44.02; 95% CI, 40.47-47.88 person-years) or had decreased isolation (n = 2067; IR = 37.77; 95% CI, 34.73-41.09 person-years) isolation. Increased isolation was associated with higher risks of mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR], 1.29; 95% CI, 1.09-1.51), disability (AHR, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.09-1.67), and dementia (AHR, 1.40; 95% CI, 1.02-1.93) compared with stable isolation. Similar findings were observed among socially nonisolated participants at baseline. Conclusions and Relevance In this cohort study, increased isolation was associated with elevated risks of mortality, disability, and dementia, irrespective of baseline isolation status. These results underscore the importance of interventions targeting the prevention of increased isolation among older adults to mitigate its adverse effects on mortality, as well as physical and cognitive function decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Lyu
- Division of Biostatistics, Department of Population Health, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York
| | - Katherine Siu
- Division of Biostatistics, Department of Population Health, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York
| | - Ian Xu
- Division of Biostatistics, Department of Population Health, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York
| | - Iman Osman
- Department of Medicine, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York
- Ronald Perlman Department of Dermatology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York
| | - Judy Zhong
- Division of Biostatistics, Department of Population Health, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York
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14
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Robinson E, Dickins M, Lad L, Beard S, McGill D, Hayes J, Fabri AM, Wade H, Meyer C, Lowthian JA. Adaptation and Implementation of a Volunteer-Delivered, Telephone-Based, Social Support Program HOW-R-U? During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Pragmatic Study. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2024; 64:gnae034. [PMID: 38656333 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnae034] [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] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Public health concerns surrounding social isolation and loneliness heightened during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, as infection prevention measures led to increased feelings of loneliness and depression. Our objective was to evaluate the implementation of the HOW-R-U? program, during the pandemic (March 2020-December 2021). HOW-R-U? is a weekly volunteer-delivered telephone program designed to facilitate social connection and ease feelings of social isolation, loneliness, and depression in older people. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS This pragmatic study used the Implementation Framework for Aged Care to adapt and implement HOW-R-U? in an Australian aged and community care organization and a tertiary health service in Melbourne. The evaluation involved analysis of program data, semistructured interviews, and surveys with program recipients, volunteers, and referrers. A process evaluation was conducted alongside an assessment of outcomes including pre- and post-symptoms of isolation, depression, and loneliness. RESULTS The implementation evaluation indicated that codesigned systems and processes effectively supported the ongoing implementation of HOW-R-U? with transition into business as usual across both organizations. Recipients reported that telephone calls had a positive impact on their lives, whereas volunteers reported enjoyment of supporting others. Several challenges were identified, namely in program reach and fidelity. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS HOW-R-U? was well regarded by all involved, and evaluation learnings have informed implementation into business as usual by both organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marissa Dickins
- Bolton Clarke Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Psychiatry, Southern Synergy, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lina Lad
- Bolton Clarke, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - Henni Wade
- Northern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Claudia Meyer
- Bolton Clarke Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Judy A Lowthian
- Bolton Clarke Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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15
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Chen Y, Xue H, Nie Y, Zhou Y, Ai S, Liu Y, Zhang J, Liang YY. Evaluation of Changes in Social Isolation and Loneliness with Incident Cardiovascular Events and Mortality. J Epidemiol Glob Health 2024:10.1007/s44197-024-00243-3. [PMID: 38801491 DOI: 10.1007/s44197-024-00243-3] [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: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It remains unknown how the patterns of change of social isolation and loneliness are associated with the onset of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality. We aimed to investigate the longitudinal association of changes in social isolation and loneliness with incident CVD, all-cause mortality, CVD mortality and subsequent cardiac function. METHODS This prospective cohort study included 18,258 participants aged 38-73 years who participated in visit 0 (2006-2010) and visit 1 (2012-2013) using UK Biobank (mean age 57.1, standard deviation [SD] 7.4; 48.7% males). Social isolation or loneliness was categorized into four patterns: never, transient, incident, and persistent. Incident CVD, all-cause and CVD mortality were ascertained through linkage data. Cardiac function was assessed by cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging in a subsample (N = 5188; visit 2, since 2014). RESULTS Over a median follow-up of 8.3 (interquartile range [IQR] 8.1-8.6) years, compared with never social isolation, persistent social isolation was associated with the higher risk of incident CVD (hazard ratio [HR] 1.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03-1.33), all-cause (1.42, 1.12-1.81) and CVD (1.53, 1.05-2.23) mortality. Likewise, persistent loneliness was strongly associated with the greater risk of incident CVD (1.13, 1.00-1.27), all-cause (1.28, 1.02-1.61) and CVD mortality (1.52, 1.06-2.18). CONCLUSIONS Persistent social isolation and loneliness posed a substantially higher risk for incident CVD, all-cause and CVD mortality, and cardiac dysfunction than other patterns. Persistent social isolation and loneliness, along with an increasing cumulative score, are associated with lower cardiac function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilin Chen
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 36 Mingxin Road, 510370, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Neurology and National Center for Neurological Disorders, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China
| | - Huachen Xue
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 36 Mingxin Road, 510370, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, 510260, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Nie
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 36 Mingxin Road, 510370, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, 510260, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yujing Zhou
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 36 Mingxin Road, 510370, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, 510260, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Sizhi Ai
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 36 Mingxin Road, 510370, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, 510260, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Cardiology, Heart Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, 453199, Weihui, Henan, China
| | - Yaping Liu
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 36 Mingxin Road, 510370, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, 510260, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jihui Zhang
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 36 Mingxin Road, 510370, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, 510260, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yannis Yan Liang
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 36 Mingxin Road, 510370, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, 510260, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
- Institute of Psycho-neuroscience, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 510370, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
- Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Southern Medical University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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16
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Majmudar IK, Mihalopoulos C, Abimanyi-Ochom J, Mohebbi M, Engel L. The association between loneliness with health service use and quality of life among informal carers in Australia. Soc Sci Med 2024; 348:116821. [PMID: 38569284 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The demanding nature of caregiving and limited social support can lead to informal carers experiencing loneliness, which can impact their well-being and overall health service use (HSU). The study aims to examine the association between loneliness with HSU and Health state utility values among informal carers in Australia. METHODS Data were derived from three waves (2009, 2013, and 2017) of the nationally representative longitudinal Household Income and Labour Dynamics of Australia (HILDA) survey, focusing on adult informal carers. Outcome measures included visits to the General Practitioner, the number of hospital admissions, and the SF-6D score. Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) analysis was conducted to explore the associations between loneliness and HSU, as well as loneliness and utility values (based on SF-6D) while adjusting for age, sex, education, marital status, income, and physical/mental health conditions. RESULTS After controlling for covariates, lonely carers reported lower utility values (IRR = 0.91, 95%CI [0.89, 0.93], p < 0.001) compared to non-lonely carers. Lonely carers reported a higher number of GP visits (IRR = 1.18, 95% CI [1.04, 1.36], p < 0.05) as well as a higher likelihood of visiting specialists (AOR = 1.31, p = 0.046) and hospital doctors (AOR = 1.42, p = 0.013) compared to the non-lonely carers. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study highlight the relationship between loneliness on both healthcare utilization and carers' overall well-being. Addressing loneliness through targeted interventions and social support systems can help improve health outcomes and potentially reduce the overall healthcare costs among informal carers in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishani Kartik Majmudar
- Deakin University, Deakin Health Economics, School of Health and Social Development, Geelong, Victoria, 3220, Australia.
| | - Cathy Mihalopoulos
- Monash University, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Health Economics Division, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Julie Abimanyi-Ochom
- Deakin University, Deakin Health Economics, School of Health and Social Development, Geelong, Victoria, 3220, Australia.
| | | | - Lidia Engel
- Monash University, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Health Economics Division, Melbourne, Australia.
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17
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Trachtenberg E. The beneficial effects of social support and prosocial behavior on immunity and health: A psychoneuroimmunology perspective. Brain Behav Immun Health 2024; 37:100758. [PMID: 38524896 PMCID: PMC10960128 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2024.100758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic emphasized the pivotal role of the social environment, prompting a surge in research on its impact on well-being and health. This article aims to examine the link between the social environment, the immune system, and health outcomes, with a particular focus on positive aspects like social support and prosocial behaviors that are under-explored. Different aspects of the social environment are examined: the negative effects of loneliness and adverse social conditions, contrasted with the benefits of social support and prosocial behaviors. While the mechanisms behind negative effects are partially studied, those driving the positive effects remain elusive. Understanding the mechanisms of lack of social connection and their effects will allow us to explore the benefits of social connections and whether they can reverse the adverse outcomes. Potential psychoneuroimmunology mechanisms are proposed, highlighting the promotion of a 'safe' state by the vagus nerve, oxytocin circuits, and the additional contribution of the reward pathways. This article reviews the need to bridge knowledge gaps, urging further research to study the causal effects of positive social interactions on immune response and health outcomes to raise clinical awareness and interventions. Such interventions may include integrating lonely individuals with prosocial activities, thereby improving their physical and mental health. There is growing potential to harness the power of social connections for the betterment of individual health and society as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estherina Trachtenberg
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Israel
- School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Social Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Israel
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18
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Ross EJ, Jimenez DE, Ghanooni D, Mendez A, Hirshfield S, Horvath KJ, DeVries B, Dilworth SE, Carrico AW, Martinez CA. Loneliness, Methamphetamine Use, and Cardiovascular Risk Factors Among Sexual Minority Men in the COVID-19 Era. Int J Behav Med 2024:10.1007/s12529-024-10288-0. [PMID: 38684565 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-024-10288-0] [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] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Important gaps exist in our understanding of loneliness and biobehavioral outcomes among sexual minority men (SMM), such as faster HIV disease progression. At the same time, SMM who use methamphetamine are approximately one-third more likely than non-users to develop cardiovascular disease. This study examined associations of loneliness, stimulant use, and cardiovascular risk in SMM with and without HIV. METHOD Participants were enrolled from August 2020 to February 2022 in a 6-month prospective cohort study. The study leveraged self-report baseline data from 103 SMM, with a subset of 56 SMM that provided a blood sample to measure markers of cardiovascular risk. RESULTS Loneliness showed negative bivariate associations with total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol in the cardiometabolic subsample (n = 56). SMM with methamphetamine use (t(101) = 2.03, p < .05; d = .42) and those that screened positive for a stimulant use disorder (t(101) = 2.07, p < .05; d = .46) had significantly higher mean loneliness scores. In linear regression analyses, negative associations of loneliness with LDL and total cholesterol were observed only among SMM who used methamphetamine. CONCLUSION We observed lower cholesterol in SMM reporting loneliness and methamphetamine use. Thus, in addition to the observed associations of loneliness with cholesterol, there are important medical consequences of methamphetamine use including cardiovascular risk, higher HIV acquisition risk and progression, as well as stimulant overdose death. This cross-sectional study underscores the need for clinical research to develop and test interventions targeting loneliness among SMM with stimulant use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Ross
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami, 1120 NW 14th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Daniel E Jimenez
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14th Street, Suite 1436, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Delaram Ghanooni
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1120 NW 14th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Armando Mendez
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism and the Diabetes Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1450 NW 10 Ave, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- Department of Medicine, STAR Program, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Keith J Horvath
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, Alvarado Court, San Diego, 6363, CA, USA
| | - Britt DeVries
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1120 NW 14th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Samantha E Dilworth
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California San Francisco, 550 16 Street, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Adam W Carrico
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1120 NW 14th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Claudia A Martinez
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
- Department of Cardiology and Interventional Cardiology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
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19
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Agudelo-Hernández F, Guapacha-Montoya M, Rojas-Andrade R. Mutual Aid Groups for Loneliness, Psychosocial Disability, and Continuity of Care. Community Ment Health J 2024; 60:608-619. [PMID: 38194119 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-023-01216-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of mutual help groups in continuity of care, loneliness and psychosocial disability in a Colombian context. For this, a quasi-experimental design is used, with pre- and post-intervention assessments due to non-randomized participant allocation. The study involved 131 individuals with mental disorders. The Psychosocial Disability Scale, The Alberta Scale of Continuity of Services in Mental Health, the UCLA Scale and the Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale were employed. The intervention was based on the core components of mutual aid groups. Significant differences (p < 0.001) were observed for the study variables, particularly in Loneliness, Continuity of Care, and various domains of psychosocial disability. A large effect size was found for these variables after the intervention. Most variables exhibited a moderate to large effect. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of mutual groups facilitated by mental health personnel at the primary care level.
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20
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CAI JY, WANG X, ZHENG CY, CAO X, HU Z, GU RQ, TIAN YX, TIAN Y, SHAO L, ZHANG LF, WANG ZW. Effects of loneliness and isolation on cardiovascular diseases: a two sample Mendelian Randomization Study. J Geriatr Cardiol 2024; 21:340-348. [PMID: 38665286 PMCID: PMC11040057 DOI: 10.26599/1671-5411.2024.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loneliness and isolation are associated with multiple cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), but there is a lack of research on whether they were causally linked. We conducted a Mendelian Randomization (MR) study to explore causal relationships between loneliness and isolation and multiple CVDs. METHODS Single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with loneliness and isolation were identified from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of 455,364 individuals of European ancestry in the IEU GWAS database. Summary data for 15 CVDs were also obtained from the IEU GWAS database. We used three MR methods including inverse variance weighting, MR-Egger, and weighted median estimation to assess the causal effect of exposure on outcomes. Cochran's Q test and MR-Egger intercept test were used to evaluate the heterogeneity and pleiotropy. RESULTS MR analysis showed that loneliness and isolation were significantly associated with essential hypertension (OR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.03-1.12), atherosclerotic heart disease (OR = 1.04; 95% CI: 1.02-1.06), myocardial infarction (OR = 1.02; 95% CI: 1-1.04) and angina (OR = 1.04; 95% CI =1.02-1.06). No heterogeneity and pleiotropy effects were found in this study. CONCLUSIONS Causal relationship of loneliness and isolation with CVDs were found in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Yin CAI
- Division of Prevention and Community Health, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center of Cardiovascular Disease, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xin WANG
- Division of Prevention and Community Health, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center of Cardiovascular Disease, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Cong-Yi ZHENG
- Division of Prevention and Community Health, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center of Cardiovascular Disease, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xue CAO
- Division of Prevention and Community Health, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center of Cardiovascular Disease, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhen HU
- Division of Prevention and Community Health, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center of Cardiovascular Disease, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Run-Qing GU
- Division of Prevention and Community Health, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center of Cardiovascular Disease, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yi-Xin TIAN
- Division of Prevention and Community Health, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center of Cardiovascular Disease, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ye TIAN
- Division of Prevention and Community Health, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center of Cardiovascular Disease, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lan SHAO
- Division of Prevention and Community Health, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center of Cardiovascular Disease, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lin-Feng ZHANG
- Division of Prevention and Community Health, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center of Cardiovascular Disease, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zeng-Wu WANG
- Division of Prevention and Community Health, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center of Cardiovascular Disease, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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21
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Abreu TC, Mackenbach JD, Heuvelman F, Schoonmade LJ, Beulens JW. Associations between dimensions of the social environment and cardiometabolic risk factors: Systematic review and meta-analysis. SSM Popul Health 2024; 25:101559. [PMID: 38148999 PMCID: PMC10749911 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2023.101559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim The social environment (SE), including social contacts, norms and support, is an understudied element of the living environment which impacts health. We aim to comprehensively summarize the evidence on the association between the SE and risk factors of cardiometabolic disease (CMD). Methods We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis based on studies published in PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science Core Collection from inception to 16 February 2021. Studies that used a risk factor of CMD, e.g., HbA1c or blood pressure, as outcome and social environmental factors such as area-level deprivation or social network size as independent variables were included. Titles and abstracts were screened in duplicate. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Data appraisal and extraction were based on the study protocol published in PROSPERO. Data were synthesized through vote counting and meta-analyses. Results From the 7521 records screened, 168 studies reported 1050 associations were included in this review. Four meta-analyses based on 24 associations suggested that an unfavorable social environment was associated with increased risk of cardiometabolic risk factors, with three of them being statistically significant. For example, individuals that experienced more economic and social disadvantage had a higher "CVD risk scores" (OR = 1.54, 95%CI: 1.35 to 1.84). Of the 458 associations included in the vote counting, 323 (71%) pointed towards unfavorable social environments being associated with higher CMD risk. Conclusion Higher economic and social disadvantage seem to contribute to unfavorable CMD risk factor profiles, while evidence for other dimensions of the social environment is limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taymara C. Abreu
- Department of Epidemiology & Data Science, Amsterdam UMC - location VUmc, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, the Netherlands
- Upstream Team, the Netherlands
| | - Joreintje D. Mackenbach
- Department of Epidemiology & Data Science, Amsterdam UMC - location VUmc, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, the Netherlands
- Upstream Team, the Netherlands
| | - Fleur Heuvelman
- Department of Epidemiology & Data Science, Amsterdam UMC - location VUmc, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, the Netherlands
| | - Linda J. Schoonmade
- University Library, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, the Netherlands
| | - Joline W.J. Beulens
- Department of Epidemiology & Data Science, Amsterdam UMC - location VUmc, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, the Netherlands
- Upstream Team, the Netherlands
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, the Netherlands
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22
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Zhang Y, Liu M, Zhou C, Ye Z, Zhang Y, Yang S, He P, Gan X, Qin X. Social isolation, loneliness, and the risk of incident type 2 diabetes mellitus by glycemic status. DIABETES & METABOLISM 2024; 50:101517. [PMID: 38253174 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabet.2024.101517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
AIM The modifying effect of prediabetic status on the association of social isolation and loneliness with the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains uncertain. We aimed to explore whether prediabetic status modifies the association of social isolation and loneliness with incident T2DM. METHODS 358,951 participants with random blood glucose < 11.1 mmol/l, hemoglobin A1c < 6.5 % and without diagnosis of diabetes from the UK Biobank were included. Prediabetes was defined by hemoglobin A1c level at 5.7-6.4 %. Social isolation and loneliness were assessed using self-reported questionnaires. The study outcome was incident T2DM. RESULTS During a median follow-up of 12.5 years, 13,213 (3.7 %) incident T2DM cases were documented. Social isolation and loneliness in subjects with normoglycemia (adjusted HR [95 %CI]: social isolation: 1.14 [1.07;1.23]; loneliness: 1.33 [1.20;1.47]) were more strongly associated with increased risk of T2DM than in those with prediabetes (adjusted HR [95 %CI]: social isolation: 0.97 [0.91;1.03]; loneliness: 1.04 [0.95;1.13]) (Both P for interaction < 0.001). Among individuals with prediabetes, alcoholic consumption (30.9 %), household income (23.3 %), healthy sleep (17.1 %), loneliness (14.9 %), and physical activity (12.6 %) mediated most of the variance in the association between social isolation and incident T2DM, while body mass index (17.9 %) and healthy sleep (17.6 %) mediated most of the variance in the association between loneliness and incident T2DM. CONCLUSION Social isolation and loneliness were independently associated with a higher risk of T2DM among individuals without prediabetes. Among those with prediabetes, the association of social isolation and loneliness with incident T2DM were mainly mediated by some socioeconomic and lifestyle factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanjun Zhang
- Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, China; National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Disease, China; State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, China; Guangdong Provincial Institute of Nephrology, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Renal Failure Research, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Mengyi Liu
- Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, China; National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Disease, China; State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, China; Guangdong Provincial Institute of Nephrology, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Renal Failure Research, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Chun Zhou
- Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, China; National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Disease, China; State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, China; Guangdong Provincial Institute of Nephrology, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Renal Failure Research, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Ziliang Ye
- Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, China; National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Disease, China; State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, China; Guangdong Provincial Institute of Nephrology, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Renal Failure Research, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, China; National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Disease, China; State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, China; Guangdong Provincial Institute of Nephrology, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Renal Failure Research, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Sisi Yang
- Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, China; National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Disease, China; State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, China; Guangdong Provincial Institute of Nephrology, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Renal Failure Research, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Panpan He
- Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, China; National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Disease, China; State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, China; Guangdong Provincial Institute of Nephrology, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Renal Failure Research, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xiaoqin Gan
- Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, China; National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Disease, China; State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, China; Guangdong Provincial Institute of Nephrology, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Renal Failure Research, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xianhui Qin
- Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, China; National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Disease, China; State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, China; Guangdong Provincial Institute of Nephrology, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Renal Failure Research, Guangzhou 510515, China.
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23
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Reddy KR, Freeman AM. Lifestyle Medicine: An Antidote to Cardiovascular Diseases. Am J Lifestyle Med 2024; 18:216-232. [PMID: 38559785 PMCID: PMC10979734 DOI: 10.1177/15598276221130684] [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: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite numerous advances in basic understanding of cardiovascular disease pathophysiology, pharmacology, therapeutic procedures, and systems improvement, there hasn't been much decline in heart disease related mortality in the US since 2010. Hypertension and diet induced risk continue to be the leading causes of cardiovascular morbidity. Even with the excessive mortality associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, in 2020, heart disease remained the leading cause of death. Given the degree of disease burden, morbidity, and mortality, there is an urgent need to redirect medical professionals' focus towards prevention through simple and cost effective lifestyle strategies. However, current practice paradigm and financial compensation systems are mainly centered disease management and not health promotion. For example, the financial value placed on 3-10 min smoking cessation counseling (.24RVUs) is 47-fold lower than an elective PCI (11.21 RVUs). The medical community seems to be enamored with the latest and greatest technology, new devices, and surgical procedures. What if the greatest technology of all was simply the way we live every day? Perhaps when this notion is known by enough, we will switch to this lifestyle medicine technology to prevent disease in the first place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koushik R. Reddy
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, James A. Haley VA Medical Center and University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA (KRR); and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, National Jewish Health, Denver, CO, USA (AMF)
| | - Andrew M. Freeman
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, James A. Haley VA Medical Center and University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA (KRR); and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, National Jewish Health, Denver, CO, USA (AMF)
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24
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Grigorian K, Östberg V, Raninen J, Brolin Låftman S. Loneliness, belonging and psychosomatic complaints across late adolescence and young adulthood: a Swedish cohort study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:642. [PMID: 38424596 PMCID: PMC10903051 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18059-y] [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] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loneliness and belonging refer to social connectedness and are associated with young people's health; however, the relationship between these constructs and their impact on health is still being discussed. A dual continuum model of belonging and loneliness has been suggested, consisting of four groups depending on the state of loneliness and belonging: socially fulfilled (low loneliness, high belonging), socially indifferent (low loneliness, low belonging), socially searching (high loneliness, high belonging), and socially distressed (high loneliness, low belonging). The aim of this study is to examine loneliness and belonging in a Swedish sample of 17-18-years-olds who were followed over 3 years, and the associations that these aspects share with young people's psychosomatic complaints during these ages. METHODS Swedish cohort data collected among late adolescents (age 17-18 in 2019) who were followed up in young adulthood (age 20-21 in 2022) (n = 2684) was used to examine the associations between loneliness, belonging, and psychosomatic complaints. Loneliness and belonging were measured by single items and the cross-combinations of these. Three psychosomatic complaints were assessed: stomach ache, headache, and difficulties falling asleep, and a summary index was calculated. RESULTS Linear regression analyses showed that loneliness was positively and belonging was negatively cross-sectionally associated with psychosomatic complaints. The socially fulfilled group reported fewer psychosomatic complaints compared to all other groups, while the socially distressed group reported the highest level of psychosomatic complaints. Additional adjustment for sociodemographic characteristics barely affected the estimates. The prospective analysis supported these patterns; however, after adjustment for earlier psychosomatic complaints, the only statistically significant difference in subsequent psychosomatic complaints was found between the socially fulfilled and the socially distressed groups. CONCLUSIONS Loneliness and belonging (separately and the cross-combinations of these) were cross-sectionally associated with psychosomatic complaints in late adolescence and in young adulthood. Prospectively, only the most vulnerable group in the dual continuum model, the socially distressed group, experienced more psychosomatic complaints than the socially fulfilled group, indicating a temporal relationship. Knowledge about the more nuanced links may be useful for developing specific public health recommendations and interventions for youth, targeting the most vulnerable groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Grigorian
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Viveca Östberg
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jonas Raninen
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Centre for Alcohol Policy Research, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sara Brolin Låftman
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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25
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Wang Y, Li S, Zou X, Ni Y, Xu L, Liao S, Cao L, Bao J, Li Y, Xi Y. Exploration of subgroups and predictors of loneliness among older adults in rural China: A latent profile analysis. BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:195. [PMID: 38408957 PMCID: PMC10898013 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-04812-w] [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] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loneliness is a negative emotional state that can lead to physical and mental health problems. This study's objective was to acquire an in-depth understanding of the heterogeneity and the predictors of loneliness among older adults in rural China and provide valuable references for practical interventions. METHODS Older rural adults in China (N = 680) were recruited between January and April 2023. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was employed to identify subgroups of loneliness among participants. Single-factor and multinomial logistic regression analyses were conducted to investigate predictors of loneliness. RESULTS The loneliness of rural older adults could be divided into three subgroups: low interaction loneliness group (55.0%), moderate emotional loneliness group (31.8%), and high loneliness group (13.2%). The subgroup predictors included age, gender, religious beliefs, marital status, living alone, number of chronic diseases, and smartphone use (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION This study identified a classification pattern for loneliness among older adults in rural areas of China, revealed the characteristics of different demographic variables in loneliness categories, and highlighted the heterogeneity of loneliness in this population. It serves as a theoretical reference for formulating intervention plans aimed at addressing various loneliness categories for local rural older adults. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION ChiCTR2300071591.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuecong Wang
- Department of Nursing, College of Medical Science, Huzhou University, 759 Second Ring Road, Huzhou, Zhejiang, 313000, China
| | - Shasha Li
- Department of Nursing, College of Medical Science, Huzhou University, 759 Second Ring Road, Huzhou, Zhejiang, 313000, China.
| | - Xiaoyue Zou
- Department of Personnel, The First People's Hospital of Huzhou, No.158, Back Square Road, Wuxing District, Huzhou, Zhejiang, 313000, China
| | - Yingyuan Ni
- Department of Nursing, College of Medical Science, Huzhou University, 759 Second Ring Road, Huzhou, Zhejiang, 313000, China
| | - Lijun Xu
- Department of Nursing, College of Medical Science, Huzhou University, 759 Second Ring Road, Huzhou, Zhejiang, 313000, China
| | - Shufang Liao
- Department of Nursing, College of Medical Science, Huzhou University, 759 Second Ring Road, Huzhou, Zhejiang, 313000, China
| | - Lijun Cao
- Internal Medicine-Cardiovascular Department, The First People's Hospital of Huzhou, No.158, Back Square Road, Wuxing District, Huzhou, Zhejiang, 313000, China
| | - Jianyi Bao
- Department of Nursing, College of Medical Science, Huzhou University, 759 Second Ring Road, Huzhou, Zhejiang, 313000, China
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Nursing, College of Medical Science, Huzhou University, 759 Second Ring Road, Huzhou, Zhejiang, 313000, China
| | - Yingxue Xi
- Department of Nursing, College of Medical Science, Huzhou University, 759 Second Ring Road, Huzhou, Zhejiang, 313000, China
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26
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Guo B, Xi K, Mao H, Ren K, Xiao H, Hartley ND, Zhang Y, Kang J, Liu Y, Xie Y, Zhou Y, Zhu Y, Zhang X, Fu Z, Chen JF, Hu H, Wang W, Wu S. CB1R dysfunction of inhibitory synapses in the ACC drives chronic social isolation stress-induced social impairments in male mice. Neuron 2024; 112:441-457.e6. [PMID: 37992714 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.10.027] [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] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Social isolation is a risk factor for multiple mood disorders. Specifically, social isolation can remodel the brain, causing behavioral abnormalities, including sociability impairments. Here, we investigated social behavior impairment in mice following chronic social isolation stress (CSIS) and conducted a screening of susceptible brain regions using functional readouts. CSIS enhanced synaptic inhibition in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), particularly at inhibitory synapses of cholecystokinin (CCK)-expressing interneurons. This enhanced synaptic inhibition in the ACC was characterized by CSIS-induced loss of presynaptic cannabinoid type-1 receptors (CB1Rs), resulting in excessive axonal calcium influx. Activation of CCK-expressing interneurons or conditional knockdown of CB1R expression in CCK-expressing interneurons specifically reproduced social impairment. In contrast, optogenetic activation of CB1R or administration of CB1R agonists restored sociability in CSIS mice. These results suggest that the CB1R may be an effective therapeutic target for preventing CSIS-induced social impairments by restoring synaptic inhibition in the ACC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baolin Guo
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China.
| | - Kaiwen Xi
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Honghui Mao
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Keke Ren
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Haoxiang Xiao
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Nolan D Hartley
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; McGovern Institute for Brain Research in the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences at MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Yangming Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Junjun Kang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Yingying Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Yuqiao Xie
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Yongsheng Zhou
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Xia Zhang
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Zhanyan Fu
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; McGovern Institute for Brain Research in the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences at MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Jiang-Fan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Hailan Hu
- School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Wenting Wang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China.
| | - Shengxi Wu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China.
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27
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da Silva THR. Loneliness in older adults. Br J Community Nurs 2024; 29:60-66. [PMID: 38300245 DOI: 10.12968/bjcn.2024.29.2.60] [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: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
This article aims to provide an overview on loneliness in older people, with an emphasis on how insights from this body of literature can significantly contribute to the enhancement of care provided by community nurses. This review aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the factors contributing to loneliness, its impact on the physical and mental health of older individuals, and the role community nurses can play in mitigating and addressing loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago Horta Reis da Silva
- Lecturer in Nursing Education AEP, Department of Adult Nursing, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care, King's College London
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28
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Lin Y, Zhu T, Zhang X, Zeng Z. Trends in the prevalence of social isolation among middle and older adults in China from 2011 to 2018: the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:339. [PMID: 38302982 PMCID: PMC10832184 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-17734-4] [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: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiological studies have shown that social isolation, which is prevalent in older adults, is associated with a range of adverse health outcomes, but the prevalence of and trends in regard to social isolation remain ambiguous in China. The aim of this study was to elucidate the trends regarding the prevalence of social isolation among middle-aged and older adults in China from 2011 to 2018 and to further identify associated risk factors. METHODS A repeated cross-sectional study, The data were derived from panel sample data of four waves conducted from May 2011 to August 2018 in the nationally representative China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) using multistage probability sampling. Social isolation was ascertained by the five item Steptoe Social Isolation Index. The potential covariates were demographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and health status. Linear-by-linear association was used to assess the trends in regard to social isolation over time under the influence of the potential covariates. Linear-by-linear association and an age-period-cohort analysis were used to explore the trends, and two-level (time, individual) generalized estimating equation models (GEE) linked multivariate binary logistic regression were performed to identify risk factors. RESULTS A high prevalence of social isolation and a moderate upward trend from 2013 to 2018 were observed among a U-shaped trend prevalence of social isolation from 2011 to 2018 across China, with rates of 38.09% (95% CI = 36.73-39.45) in 2011, 33.66% (32.32-35.00) in 2013, 39.13% (37.59-40.67) in 2015, and 39.95% (38.59-41.31) in 2018 (p < 0.001). The prevalence of social isolation increased with age and educational attainment. Females had a higher prevalence than males. The prevalence of social isolation was found to be significantly lower in pensioners than in non-pensioners between 2011 and 2018 (p < 0.001). The prevalence of social isolation was 38.9%, 34.9%, 38.5%, and 44.08% about three times higher among those who doid not use the Internet and 13.44%, 11.64%, 12.93%, and 16.73% than among those who doid in 2011, 2013, 2015 and 2018 respectively. The participants with short (0-5 h) and long sleep (9 or more hours), and poor self-rated health had a higher prevalence of social isolation than the others. Older age, lower educational attainment, living in a rural region, lack of medical insurance or pension, lack of internet use and poor health were risk factors (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS We found a U-shaped prevalence of social isolation trends from 2011 to 2018 and revealed increasing trends from 2013 to 2018 among middle-aged and older adults in China. The findings of the study highlight the urgent need for interventions to reduce social isolation including improving sleep quality and internet skills. Disadvantaged groups in terms of age, economic status, and health status should be the focus of such interventions, especially in the era of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanwei Lin
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
- Institute of Public Health and Wellness, Guangdong Medical University, 1#, Xincheng Avenue, Songshanhu District, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre (CPEC), London School of Economics and Political Science, London, WC2A2AE, UK
| | - Tingting Zhu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
- Institute of Public Health and Wellness, Guangdong Medical University, 1#, Xincheng Avenue, Songshanhu District, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
- Institute of Public Health and Wellness, Guangdong Medical University, 1#, Xincheng Avenue, Songshanhu District, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
| | - Zhirong Zeng
- Institute of Public Health and Wellness, Guangdong Medical University, 1#, Xincheng Avenue, Songshanhu District, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China.
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29
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Sørensen M, Pershagen G, Thacher JD, Lanki T, Wicki B, Röösli M, Vienneau D, Cantuaria ML, Schmidt JH, Aasvang GM, Al-Kindi S, Osborne MT, Wenzel P, Sastre J, Fleming I, Schulz R, Hahad O, Kuntic M, Zielonka J, Sies H, Grune T, Frenis K, Münzel T, Daiber A. Health position paper and redox perspectives - Disease burden by transportation noise. Redox Biol 2024; 69:102995. [PMID: 38142584 PMCID: PMC10788624 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102995] [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] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Transportation noise is a ubiquitous urban exposure. In 2018, the World Health Organization concluded that chronic exposure to road traffic noise is a risk factor for ischemic heart disease. In contrast, they concluded that the quality of evidence for a link to other diseases was very low to moderate. Since then, several studies on the impact of noise on various diseases have been published. Also, studies investigating the mechanistic pathways underlying noise-induced health effects are emerging. We review the current evidence regarding effects of noise on health and the related disease-mechanisms. Several high-quality cohort studies consistently found road traffic noise to be associated with a higher risk of ischemic heart disease, heart failure, diabetes, and all-cause mortality. Furthermore, recent studies have indicated that road traffic and railway noise may increase the risk of diseases not commonly investigated in an environmental noise context, including breast cancer, dementia, and tinnitus. The harmful effects of noise are related to activation of a physiological stress response and nighttime sleep disturbance. Oxidative stress and inflammation downstream of stress hormone signaling and dysregulated circadian rhythms are identified as major disease-relevant pathomechanistic drivers. We discuss the role of reactive oxygen species and present results from antioxidant interventions. Lastly, we provide an overview of oxidative stress markers and adverse redox processes reported for noise-exposed animals and humans. This position paper summarizes all available epidemiological, clinical, and preclinical evidence of transportation noise as an important environmental risk factor for public health and discusses its implications on the population level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette Sørensen
- Work, Environment and Cancer, Danish Cancer Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Natural Science and Environment, Roskilde University, Denmark.
| | - Göran Pershagen
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jesse Daniel Thacher
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Timo Lanki
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Kuopio, Finland; School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland; Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Benedikt Wicki
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Röösli
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Danielle Vienneau
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Manuella Lech Cantuaria
- Work, Environment and Cancer, Danish Cancer Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark; Research Unit for ORL - Head & Neck Surgery and Audiology, Odense University Hospital & University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Jesper Hvass Schmidt
- Research Unit for ORL - Head & Neck Surgery and Audiology, Odense University Hospital & University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Gunn Marit Aasvang
- Department of Air Quality and Noise, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sadeer Al-Kindi
- Department of Medicine, University Hospitals, Harrington Heart & Vascular Institute, Case Western Reserve University, 11100 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Michael T Osborne
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Philip Wenzel
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiology I, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany; German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine-Main, Mainz, Germany; Center for Thrombosis and Hemostasis, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Juan Sastre
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Spain
| | - Ingrid Fleming
- Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany; German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site RheinMain, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Rainer Schulz
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Justus-Liebig University, Gießen, 35392, Gießen, Germany
| | - Omar Hahad
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiology I, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany; German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine-Main, Mainz, Germany
| | - Marin Kuntic
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiology I, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany; German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine-Main, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jacek Zielonka
- Department of Biophysics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Helmut Sies
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Faculty of Medicine, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany; Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Tilman Grune
- Department of Molecular Toxicology, German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Nuthetal, Germany; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), München-Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Katie Frenis
- Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Stem Cell Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Thomas Münzel
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiology I, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany; German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine-Main, Mainz, Germany; Center for Thrombosis and Hemostasis, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Andreas Daiber
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiology I, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany; German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine-Main, Mainz, Germany; Center for Thrombosis and Hemostasis, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany.
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Huang J, Xiao L, Zhao H, Liu F, Du L. Living alone increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis based on longitudinal studies. Prim Care Diabetes 2024; 18:1-6. [PMID: 38129222 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcd.2023.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Living alone is a prevalent psychological issue that has been found to have significant implications for lifestyle and health status. While considerable research has been conducted to explore the relationship between living alone and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), the majority of studies have been cross-sectional, leaving direct correlations elusive. Therefore, this study aims to analyze data from longitudinal studies to determine whether living alone increases the risk of T2DM. METHODS A comprehensive search was conducted in the PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase databases to identify studies examining the association between living alone and T2DM risk. The search encompassed studies published until September 2023. Pooled analysis utilized the random-effects model with inverse variance and included adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS The meta-analysis comprised a total of 8 studies, which consisted of 5 prospective cohort studies and 3 retrospective cohort studies. The total population under consideration included 11,686,677 individuals without T2DM, of whom 54.3% were female. Among this population, 396,368 individuals developed T2DM. To account for heterogeneity, a random-effects model was employed. Overall, the pooled data demonstrated a significant association between living alone and an increased risk of T2DM when compared to living with others (HR 1.24, 95% CI 1.06-1.46). Subgroup analysis revealed that this risk was not statistically significant for either males (HR 1.28, 95% CI 0.93-1.76) or females (HR 1.06, 95% CI 0.84-1.33), nor in prospective cohort studies (HR 1.26, 95% CI 0.91-1.74) or retrospective cohort studies (HR 1.26, 95% CI 0.91-1.74). CONCLUSION Individuals living alone faced a significantly higher risk of developing diabetes compared to those who did not live alone. However, no significant difference in this risk was observed between genders and study types. Further high-quality studies are necessary in the future to elucidate this causal association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinrong Huang
- Department of Sleep Medicine, Ganzhou People's Hospital, Ganzhou, China
| | - Liping Xiao
- Department of nephrology, Ganzhou People's Hospital
| | - Hui Zhao
- Department of Sleep Medicine, Ganzhou People's Hospital, Ganzhou, China
| | - Fuwei Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Ganzhou People's Hospital, Ganzhou, China.
| | - Lihui Du
- Department of Sleep Medicine, Ganzhou People's Hospital, Ganzhou, China.
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Li Z, Gu J, Li P, Hu J, Wang S, Wang P, Zhou L, Yun Y, Shi Y, Wang P. The relationship between social frailty and loneliness in community-dwelling older adults: a cross-sectional study. BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:73. [PMID: 38238657 PMCID: PMC10797967 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-04666-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social frailty (SF) is associated with multiple adverse health outcomes, yet there has been an inadequate focus on social frailty. The convoy model portrays the social networks through the perspective of the life course, thus providing a framework to explain the occurrence of social frailty. This study aimd to figure out the prevalence of social frailty and loneliness among community-dwelling older adults and to explore their correlations based on convoy model. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study, and 295 older adults from 10 communities of Zhengzhou in Henan Province participated in the study. Social frailty and loneliness were assessed separately with the Social Frailty Scale and University of California at Los Angeles-Loneliness Scale. The scores of social frailty of the older adults in different characteristic communities were compared by independent sample t-test and single factor analysis of variance. The influencing factors of social frailty were analysed by multiple stepwise linear regression and the structural equation model. The correlation between social frailty and loneliness was analysed by Pearson correlation analysis. RESULTS The total scores of social frailty and loneliness of the older adults in the community were (2.09 ± 1.53) and (43.19 ± 8.91), respectively. There was a moderate positive correlation between social frailty and loneliness (r = 0.621, P < 0.01). The results of multiple stepwise linear regression analysis showed that age, living styles, balance of payments, and loneliness were the main influencing factors of the social frailty of older adults in the community (F = 27.180, P < 0.001). The structural equation model of social frailty fitted well (χ2 = 47.292, df = 26, χ2/df = 1.819, P = 0.007; RMSEA = 0.053, 95%CI (0.028, 0.076), P = 0.359; GFI = 0.971; AGFI = 0.939; NFI = 0.904; IFI = 0.955; TLI = 0.918; CFI = 0.953; SRMR = 0.0466). CONCLUSIONS The convoy model had certain applicability in explanation of the relationship between loneliness and social frailty among older adults in community. The incidence of social frailty among the older adults in the community was high, and loneliness was at a medium level. It is necessary to strengthen the intervention of social frailty and loneliness of the older adults in the community, improve the quality of life of the older adults, and promote the development of healthy aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixiao Li
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jinjin Gu
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Peiling Li
- Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiaqi Hu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shanshan Wang
- School of Nursing, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, HongKong, China
| | - Panpan Wang
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- Henan Electric Power Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yi Yun
- Henan Electric Power Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yan Shi
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Peng Wang
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
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Wang Q, Wang Y, Tian Y, Li Y, Han J, Tai F, Jia R. Social environment enrichment alleviates anxiety-like behavior in mice: Involvement of the dopamine system. Behav Brain Res 2024; 456:114687. [PMID: 37778421 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2023.114687] [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: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Rearing environment plays a vital role in maintaining physical and mental health of both animals and humans. Plenty of studies have proved that physical environment enrichment in adolescence has protective effects on emotion, social behavior, learning and memory deficits. However, the following effects of social environment enrichment in adolescence remain largely elusive. Using the paradigm of companion rotation (CR), the present study found that social environment enrichment reduced anxiety-like behaviors of early adult male C57BL/6J mice. CR group also showed significantly higher expression of tyrosine hydroxylase in the ventral tegmental area and dopamine 1 receptor mRNA in the nucleus accumbens shell than control group. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that CR from adolescence to early adulthood can suppress the level of anxiety and upregulate dopaminergic neuron activity in early adult male C57BL/6J mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qun Wang
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Science, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710119, China
| | - Yuqian Wang
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Science, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710119, China
| | - Yaoyao Tian
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Science, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710119, China
| | - Yanyan Li
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Science, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710119, China
| | - Jing Han
- MOE Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710062, China
| | - Fadao Tai
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Science, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710119, China
| | - Rui Jia
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Science, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710119, China.
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Prada Crespo D, Montejo Carrasco P, Díaz-Mardomingo C, Villalba-Mora E, Montenegro-Peña M. Social Loneliness in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment: Predictive Factors and Associated Clinical Characteristics. J Alzheimers Dis 2024; 97:697-714. [PMID: 38160358 DOI: 10.3233/jad-230901] [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: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loneliness and social isolation are considered public health problems among older individuals. In addition, both increase the risk of developing cognitive impairment and dementia. The Social Loneliness construct has been proposed to refer to these harmful social interaction-related factors. OBJECTIVE To define the risk factors of Social Loneliness in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and to analyze cognitive, emotional, and functional differences according to the participant's degree of Social Loneliness. METHODS Through convenience sampling, 105 participants over 60 diagnosed with MCI were selected. The evaluation consisted of anamnesis and a comprehensive neuropsychological examination. The ESTE-II questionnaire was used to assess Social Loneliness and its three factors: perceived social support, social participation, and use of communication technologies. Personality was measured with the NEO-FFI questionnaire. RESULTS The predictors of the Social Loneliness factors were as follows; 1) perceived social support (R2 = 0.33): Neuroticism (β= 0.353), depression (β= 0.205), and perceived health (β= 0.133); 2) social participation (R2 = 0.24): Conscientiousness (β= -0.344) and Extraversion (β= -0.263); 3) use of communication technologies (R2 = 0.44): age (β= 0.409), type of cohabitation (β= 0.331), cognitive reserve (β= -0.303), and Conscientiousness (β= -0.247); all p < 0.05. The participants with a higher degree of Social Loneliness showed more depressive symptoms (R2 = 0.133), more memory complaints (R2 = 0.086), worse perceived health (R2 = 0.147), lower attentional performance/processing speed (R2 = 0.094), and more naming difficulties (R2 = 0.132); all p < 0.05. CONCLUSIONS This research represents an advance in detecting individuals with MCI and an increased risk of developing Social Loneliness, which influences the configuration of the clinical profile of MCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Prada Crespo
- Department of Basic Psychology I, Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), Madrid, Spain
- Escuela Internacional de Doctorado, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (EIDUNED), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Carmen Díaz-Mardomingo
- Department of Basic Psychology I, Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto Mixto de Investigación-Escuela Nacional de Sanidad (IMIENS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Villalba-Mora
- Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Montenegro-Peña
- Center for the Prevention of Cognitive Impairment, Madrid City Council, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Madrid, Spain
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Chen H, Liu F, Luo J, Tu Y, Huang S, Zhu W. Association of living alone with clinical outcomes in patients with heart failure: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Cardiol 2024; 47:e24153. [PMID: 37740434 PMCID: PMC10765994 DOI: 10.1002/clc.24153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Living alone is an objective sign of social isolation. It is uncertain whether living alone worsens clinical outcomes in heart failure (HF) patients. We aimed to assess how living alone affected clinical outcomes in individuals with HF. We searched the electronic databases of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane from 1990 to April 2022 for studies comparing living alone with HF. A random-effects model with inverse variance was used to pool adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Seven studies were deemed to meet the standards. In patients with HF, compared with living with others, living alone was associated with an elevated risk of any hospitalization at the 30-day (HR: 1.78, 95% CI: 1.09-2.89), 90-day (HR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.02-1.51), or ≥1-year (HR: 1.14, 95% CI: 1.04-1.26) follow-up periods. HF patients living alone also had a greater risk of any hospitalization or death at the 30-day (HR: 1.56, 95% CI: 1.15-2.11), 90-day (HR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.05-1.50), and ≥1-year (HR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.09-1.28) follow-up periods. However, patients living alone had no increased risk of all-cause death at the 30-day (HR: 1.0, 95% CI: 0.19-5.36), 90-day (HR: 0.46, 95% CI: 0.03-7.42), or ≥ 1-year (HR: 1.10, 95% CI: 0.73-1.67) follow-up periods. In comparison to living with others, living alone was associated with an increased risk of any hospitalization but not all-cause death in HF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haibo Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Jiangxi Mental HospitalAffiliated Mental Hospital of Nanchang UniversityNanchangChina
| | - Fuwei Liu
- Department of CardiologyThe Affiliated Ganzhou Hospital of Nanchang UniversityGanzhouChina
| | - Jun Luo
- Department of CardiologyThe Affiliated Ganzhou Hospital of Nanchang UniversityGanzhouChina
| | - Yating Tu
- Department of Psychiatry, Jiangxi Mental HospitalAffiliated Mental Hospital of Nanchang UniversityNanchangChina
| | - Shan Huang
- Department of PsychiatryThe Third People's Hospital of GanzhouGanzhouChina
| | - Wengen Zhu
- Department of Cardiologythe First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouChina
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Chen Z, Song X, Lee TMC, Zhang R. The robust reciprocal relationship between loneliness and depressive symptoms among the general population: Evidence from a quantitative analysis of 37 studies. J Affect Disord 2023; 343:119-128. [PMID: 37797753 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loneliness has long been associated with depressive symptoms, but there is no evidence on the question of "which comes first". To help us to answer this question, this study conducted a meta-analysis using a cross-lagged formula to examine the reciprocal relations between loneliness and depressive symptoms, as well as potential moderators. METHODS The meta-analytic dataset consisted of 37 studies with sample sizes ranging from 52 to 5991. Effect sizes (including autoregressive effects and lagged coefficients) were included. We computed weighted mean effect sizes for the correlation effect and cross-lagged effect between loneliness and depressive symptoms. We also performed a meta-regression to investigate potential moderators. RESULTS The results showed that loneliness and depressive symptoms reciprocally predicted each other over time with similar effect sizes. There was no moderation of our overall effect size in either direction by time interval between measurements, the proportion of female participants, mean age of the sample, or type of measurement. LIMITATIONS Caution should be taken in drawing final conclusions about the relative strength of reciprocal effects between loneliness and depressive symptoms due to the potential influence of varied research focus in the included studies, which could affect the effect size. CONCLUSIONS These findings advance the study of the relationship between loneliness and depressive symptoms by providing evidence that the link between them is symmetrically reciprocal and robust, which may help clinicians to develop effective intervention methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijia Chen
- Cognitive control and Brain Healthy Laboratory, Department of Psychology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoqi Song
- Cognitive control and Brain Healthy Laboratory, Department of Psychology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tatia M C Lee
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; Laboratory of Neuropsychology and Human Neuroscience, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ruibin Zhang
- Cognitive control and Brain Healthy Laboratory, Department of Psychology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Guangzhou, China; Department of Psychiatry, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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Chebly KO, Shen M, Schoenthaler AM. Frequency and nature of discussing social influences on health in urban safety-net clinics: A qualitative analysis. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2023; 117:107974. [PMID: 37729818 PMCID: PMC10872873 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2023.107974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Chronic social isolation is a risk factor for all-cause mortality and disease progression, but is not routinely screened for in clinical settings. This study analyzed provider-patient communication patterns about social influences during primary care encounters, to identify opportunities to screen for objective or perceived social isolation. METHODS Content analysis was conducted on transcripts of 97 audiotaped, English-speaking patient encounters with 27 primary care providers at 3 safety-net primary care centers in New York City. Conversations were first coded for specific social isolation screening, then more broadly to quantify and qualify how social influences were discussed in relation to health. RESULTS Transcripts included no explicit examples of social isolation screening. Social influences on health were discussed meaningfully in only 28 % of transcripts, compared to medication adherence (93 %) and diet (64 %). Patients initiated conversations about social influences on health twice as often as providers, however providers did not acknowledge 67% of these prompts. CONCLUSION Social influences on health, including social isolation, were uncommonly discussed in this sample of primary care visits. When social influences were discussed meaningfully, providers utilized relationship-centered communication strategies. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Strategic conversations about social influences, even when brief and informal, can effectively screen patients for social isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Otto Chebly
- NYU Langone Medical Center, Department of Medicine, 550 First Avenue - NBV 16N30, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| | - Michael Shen
- NYC Health & Hospitals/Woodhull, Department of Medicine, 760 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11206, USA
| | - Antoinette M Schoenthaler
- NYU Langone Medical Center, Department of Medicine, 550 First Avenue - NBV 16N30, New York, NY 10016, USA
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Kim K, Jergel A, Bai S, Bradley K, Karim B, Shah A, Suglia S, Ugboh N, Gooding HC. Feasibility of recruiting adolescents into a prospective cohort study of the effects of social isolation during COVID-19. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2023; 9:191. [PMID: 38001548 PMCID: PMC10668405 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-023-01418-8] [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: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social connection and loneliness in adolescence are increasingly understood as critical influences on adult mental and physical health. The unique impact of the social isolation imposed by the COVID-19 lockdown on emerging adults is therefore expected to be especially profound. We sought to investigate the feasibility of using ecological momentary assessment (EMA) and wearable accelerometers to characterize the effects of social isolation and/or loneliness experienced by adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We recruited 19 participants aged 13-18 from an Adolescent Medicine practice in Atlanta, GA. Participants completed surveys at baseline and throughout a 2-week study period using EMA regarding their degree of social isolation, loneliness, family functioning, school climate, social media use, and COVID-19 experiences surrounding their physical, mental, and social domains. Six participants agreed to wear an activity tracker and heart rate measurement device for 14 days to monitor their emotional state and physical health. Participant feedback was collected via open-ended exit interviews. Feasibility of recruitment/retention, adherence, and outcome measures were investigated. Implementation was also assessed by evaluating the barriers and facilitators to study delivery. Associations between the social isolation and loneliness variables and all other variables were performed with univariate linear regression analysis with significance set at p < 0.05. The progression criteria were a recruitment rate of > 30% and a retention rate of > 80%. RESULTS Progression criteria were met for recruitment (76%) of participants, but not retention (38%). Adherence to EMA survey completion was highly variable with only 54% completing ≥ 1 survey a day, and accelerometry use was not feasible. Social isolation was significantly correlated with lower school climate, higher COVID-19 experiences, higher depression scores, and lower sleep quality. Loneliness also showed a significant correlation with all these factors except COVID-19 experiences. CONCLUSIONS EMA and wearable accelerometer use was not feasible in this longitudinal study of adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Future research should further investigate barriers to conducting long-term research with adolescents and the potential effects of the pandemic on subject recruitment and retention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kain Kim
- Emory University School of Medicine, 2015 Uppergate Dr, Atlanta, GA, 30307, USA
| | - Andrew Jergel
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 49 Jesse Hill Jr Dr SE, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
| | - Shasha Bai
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 49 Jesse Hill Jr Dr SE, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
| | - Kolbi Bradley
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 49 Jesse Hill Jr Dr SE, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
| | - Brianna Karim
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 49 Jesse Hill Jr Dr SE, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
| | - Amit Shah
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, 1518 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Shakira Suglia
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, 1518 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Ngozi Ugboh
- Ross University School of Medicine, 2300 SW 145th Ave #200, Miramar, FL, 33027, USA
| | - Holly C Gooding
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 49 Jesse Hill Jr Dr SE, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA.
- Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Wang B, Peng X, Liang B, Fu L, Shi T, Li X, Tian T, Xiao X, Wang Y, Ouyang L, Cai Y, Yu M, Wu G, Li L, Meng X, Zou H. Loneliness and its correlates among older adults living with HIV: A multicenter cross-sectional study. J Affect Disord 2023; 341:228-235. [PMID: 37657621 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.08.130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the aging among people living with HIV, it is critical to understand the health needs of older adults (aged 50 years and above) living with HIV (OALHIV). Loneliness, as the next critical public health issue, was rarely mentioned among OALHIV. METHODS A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted between April 2021 and April 2022. Participants were recruited from infectious diseases hospitals that provide HIV care in four cities in China. The associations with loneliness symptoms (measured by a three-item UCLA Loneliness Scale) were analyzed by logistic regression models. RESULTS A total of 680 OALHIV (500 men, 180 women, mean age 60.3 ± 7.8 years) were included in the analysis. About one-fifth (18.1 %) of OALHIV reported loneliness symptoms. Living in urban areas (aOR 3.50, 95 % CI 1.76-6.95), having children without close intergenerational relationships (2.85, 1.15-7.07), higher self-perceptions of aging (1.10, 1.06-1.15), being heterosexual (0.26, 0.13-0.52) or bisexual (0.37, 0.16-0.82), having children with whom they kept close intergenerational relationships (0.36, 0.14-0.98), and reporting life satisfaction (0.40, 0.24-0.66), were associated with loneliness symptoms. LIMITATIONS This study is a cross-sectional study and only included OALHIV who participated in antiretroviral therapy treatment for >18 months, which is not widely representative. CONCLUSIONS Loneliness was prevalent among OALHIV. Living in urban areas, being homosexual, having children with whom they kept fragile intergenerational relationships, being dissatisfied with life, and having higher self-perceptions of aging were independent risk factors for loneliness. Routine health management for OALHIV needs to incorporate the assessment of aging perceptions and loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingyi Wang
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Xin Peng
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bowen Liang
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Leiwen Fu
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tongxin Shi
- Tianjin Hexi District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Tianjin, China
| | - Xinyi Li
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tian Tian
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xin Xiao
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China; Department of Scientific Research, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Ying Wang
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin Ouyang
- Department of AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chongqing Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chongqing, China
| | - Yong Cai
- Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Maohe Yu
- Department of AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Tianjin Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Tianjin, China
| | - Guohui Wu
- Department of AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chongqing Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chongqing, China
| | - Linghua Li
- Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojun Meng
- Wuxi Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuxi, China
| | - Huachun Zou
- School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; School of Public Health, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China; Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
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Li S, Zhang M, Han D, Wu Y, Zhao J, Liao H, Ma Y, Yan C, Wang J. The effects of loneliness and social isolation on cognitive impairment-free life expectancy in older adults. Aging Ment Health 2023; 27:2120-2127. [PMID: 36951609 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2023.2191926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This article aimed to examine the effects of social connection comprising loneliness and social isolation on cognitive impairment-free life expectancy (CIFLE). METHODS Data on 28,563 older adults (aged 65+) were drawn from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey with a median follow-up of 4.00 years. Multistate Markov models were used to estimate the independent and joint effects of social connection with CIFLE. Cognitive impairment was measured by the modified Mini-Mental State Examination. RESULTS For men and women, respectively, reduced CIFLEs at age 65 associated with loneliness were 0.95 (95% CI: 0.41-1.48) and 1.35 (95%: CI 0.77-1.90) years, and those associated with social isolation were 2.23 (95% CI: 1.67-2.78) and 2.49 (95% CI: 1.67-3.30) years. Compared with those with neither loneliness nor social isolation ('neither' group), older adults at age 65 with both loneliness and social isolation ('both group') lost CIFLEs of 2.68 (95% CI: 1.89-3.48) and 3.51 (95% CI, 2.55-4.47) years for men and women, respectively. Similar patterns were observed in the oldest-old adults (age 85 or over). A growth trend transpired in the difference of the proportion of the remaining CIFLE between 'neither' group and 'both' group with age. CONCLUSION Loneliness and social isolation are associated with decreased CIFLE in older Chinese adults. Policy makers and the public must be informed that early identification and management of loneliness and social isolation, especially when coexisting, are crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangsang Li
- Department of Health Management, School of Medicine and Health Management of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Mei Zhang
- Department of Health Management, School of Medicine and Health Management of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dan Han
- Department of Health Management, School of Medicine and Health Management of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yunyi Wu
- Department of Health Management, School of Medicine and Health Management of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jie Zhao
- Department of Health Management, School of Medicine and Health Management of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hui Liao
- Department of Health Management, School of Medicine and Health Management of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Ma
- Department of Health Management, School of Medicine and Health Management of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chaoyang Yan
- Department of Health Management, School of Medicine and Health Management of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Health Management, School of Medicine and Health Management of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- The Key Research Institute of Humanities and Social Science of Hubei Province, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute for Poverty Reduction and Development, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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40
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Davis KM, Knauft K, Lewis L, Petriello M, Petrick L, Luca F, Joseph NT, Fritz H, Cutchin M, Rappaport L, Levy P, Engeland CG, Zilioli S. The heart of Detroit study: a window into urban middle-aged and older African Americans' daily lives to understand psychosocial determinants of cardiovascular disease risk. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:766. [PMID: 37853373 PMCID: PMC10585810 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-05148-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiovascular disease disproportionately affects African Americans. Psychosocial factors, including the experience of and emotional reactivity to racism and interpersonal stressors, contribute to the etiology and progression of cardiovascular disease through effects on health behaviors, stress-responsive neuroendocrine axes, and immune processes. The full pathway and complexities of these associations remain underexamined in African Americans. The Heart of Detroit Study aims to identify and model the biopsychosocial pathways that influence cardiovascular disease risk in a sample of urban middle-aged and older African American adults. METHODS The proposed sample will be composed of 500 African American adults between the ages of 55 and 75 from the Detroit urban area. This longitudinal study will consist of two waves of data collection, two years apart. Biomarkers of stress, inflammation, and cardiovascular surrogate endpoints (i.e., heart rate variability and blood pressure) will be collected at each wave. Ecological momentary assessments will characterize momentary and daily experiences of stress, affect, and health behaviors during the first wave. A proposed subsample of 60 individuals will also complete an in-depth qualitative interview to contextualize quantitative results. The central hypothesis of this project is that interpersonal stressors predict poor cardiovascular outcomes, cumulative physiological stress, poor sleep, and inflammation by altering daily affect, daily health behaviors, and daily physiological stress. DISCUSSION This study will provide insight into the biopsychosocial pathways through which experiences of stress and discrimination increase cardiovascular disease risk over micro and macro time scales among urban African American adults. Its discoveries will guide the design of future contextualized, time-sensitive, and culturally tailored behavioral interventions to reduce racial disparities in cardiovascular disease risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M Davis
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, 5057 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA
| | - Katherine Knauft
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, 5057 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA
| | - Lena Lewis
- College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Michael Petriello
- Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Department of Pharmacology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Lauren Petrick
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Francesca Luca
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Nataria T Joseph
- Department of Psychology, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA, 90265, USA
| | - Heather Fritz
- School of Occupational Therapy, Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, Yakima, WA, 98901, USA
| | - Malcolm Cutchin
- School of Occupational Therapy, Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, Yakima, WA, 98901, USA
| | - Lance Rappaport
- Department of Psychology, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, N9B 1B4, Canada
| | - Phillip Levy
- Departments of Emergency Medicine and Physiology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Christopher G Engeland
- Department of Biobehavioral Health, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
- Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Samuele Zilioli
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, 5057 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA.
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
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McCann WD, Hou XY, Stolic S, Ireland MJ. Predictors of Psychological Distress among Post-Operative Cardiac Patients: A Narrative Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2721. [PMID: 37893795 PMCID: PMC10606887 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11202721] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Following surgery, over 50% of cardiac surgery patients report anxiety, stress and/or depression, with at least 10% meeting clinical diagnoses, which can persist for more than a year. Psychological distress predicts post-surgery health outcomes for cardiac patients. Therefore, post-operative distress represents a critical recovery challenge affecting both physical and psychological health. Despite some research identifying key personal, social, and health service correlates of patient distress, a review or synthesis of this evidence remains unavailable. Understanding these factors can facilitate the identification of high-risk patients, develop tailored support resources and interventions to support optimum recovery. This narrative review synthesises evidence from 39 studies that investigate personal, social, and health service predictors of post-surgery psychological distress among cardiac patients. The following factors predicted lower post-operative distress: participation in pre-operative education, cardiac rehabilitation, having a partner, happier marriages, increased physical activity, and greater social interaction. Conversely, increased pain and functional impairment predicted greater distress. The role of age, and sex in predicting distress is inconclusive. Understanding several factors is limited by the inability to carry out experimental manipulations for ethical reasons (e.g., pain). Future research would profit from addressing key methodological limitations and exploring the role of self-efficacy, pre-operative distress, and pre-operative physical activity. It is recommended that cardiac patients be educated pre-surgery and attend cardiac rehabilitation to decrease distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- William D. McCann
- School of Psychology and Wellbeing, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia;
| | - Xiang-Yu Hou
- Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4067, Australia;
| | - Snezana Stolic
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia;
| | - Michael J. Ireland
- School of Psychology and Wellbeing, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia;
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Bae SM. The Association between Adverse Childhood and Adulthood Experiences, Social Isolation, Loneliness, and Depression among Young Adults in South Korea. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6900. [PMID: 37835170 PMCID: PMC10572693 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20196900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the association between social isolation, loneliness, and depressive symptoms among young adults in South Korea after controlling for sociodemographic variables, adverse child and adult experiences, and perceived health status. The researcher analyzed the data of 2014 young adults aged 18-34 years from the Youth Social Economic Survey using hierarchical multiple regression analysis conducted with IBM SPSS Statistics 28.0. Among the sociodemographic variables, sex, education, and household income were significantly related to depressive symptoms. Females reported higher levels of depressive symptoms than males, and those attending college or having a college (or higher) degree reported lower levels of depressive symptoms than those with a high-school diploma or lower. Higher household income was associated with lower levels of depressive symptoms. Perceived health status was negatively associated with depressive symptoms, while adverse childhood and adulthood experiences, social isolation, and loneliness were positively associated with it. Among the major independent variables, loneliness was most strongly related to depressive symptoms, whereas social isolation had the weakest relevance to it. The prediction model proposed explained 32.7% of the variance in depressive symptoms and was considered good. Therefore, focusing on loneliness may be more important than focusing on social isolation to prevent and deal with depressive symptoms among young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Man Bae
- Department of Psychology and Psychotherapy, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
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43
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Kobos E, Rojkowska S, Szewczyk A, Dziedzic B. Burden of care and a sense of loneliness in caregivers of children with type 1 diabetes. a cross-sectional study. Biopsychosoc Med 2023; 17:34. [PMID: 37803450 PMCID: PMC10559508 DOI: 10.1186/s13030-023-00291-4] [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: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment of type 1 diabetes is a process involving not only sick children, but also their caregivers. AIM To assess the burden of care and sense of loneliness in caregivers of children with type 1 diabetes. Also, an analysis was conducted of the connection between sociodemographic factors characterizing caregivers and the clinical factors characterizing sick children and between the burden of care and the sense of loneliness. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study included 125 caregivers of children with type 1 diabetes. In order to collect the research data, the Caregiver Burden Scale and the Revised UCLA Loneliness Scale were used. RESULTS In the research group, the total result in the caregiving burden scale was 2.14, which remains within the average burden level. Caregivers showed the highest burden level in the General Strain Subscale. The analysis showed that mothers experience a greater burden of care than fathers in the General Strain Subscale and that caregivers of younger children are more burdened with care within the Isolation and Disappointment Subscales. Moderate high degree of loneliness was shown in 4.8% of caregivers. A higher burden of care for caregivers of children with type 1 diabetes is accompanied by a higher sense of loneliness. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study may help healthcare professionals plan a holistic, family-centered care program that will take into account factors that increase the burden of care: younger age of the affected child, motherhood, caregiver unemployment, feelings of loneliness, lower education, caregiver unemployment, blood glucose meter measurements, and frequent night-time blood glucose measurements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Kobos
- Department of Development of Nursing, Social and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Polish Federation for Diabetes Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Alicja Szewczyk
- Polish Federation for Diabetes Education, Warsaw, Poland
- Children’s Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Beata Dziedzic
- Department of Development of Nursing, Social and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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44
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Kanbay M, Tanriover C, Copur S, Peltek IB, Mutlu A, Mallamaci F, Zoccali C. Social isolation and loneliness: Undervalued risk factors for disease states and mortality. Eur J Clin Invest 2023; 53:e14032. [PMID: 37218451 DOI: 10.1111/eci.14032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Social isolation and loneliness are two common but undervalued conditions associated with a poor quality of life, decreased overall health and mortality. In this review, we aim to discuss the health consequences of social isolation and loneliness. We first provide the potential causes of these two conditions. Then, we explain the pathophysiological processes underlying the effects of social isolation and loneliness in disease states. Afterwards, we explain the important associations between these conditions and different non-communicable diseases, as well as the impact of social isolation and loneliness on health-related behaviours. Finally, we discuss the current and novel potential management strategies for these conditions. Healthcare professionals who attend to socially isolated and/or lonely patients should be fully competent in these conditions and assess their patients thoroughly to detect and properly understand the effects of isolation and loneliness. Patients should be offered education and treatment alternatives through shared decision-making. Future studies are needed to understand the underlying mechanisms better and to improve the treatment strategies for both social isolation and loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Kanbay
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Koc University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Cem Tanriover
- Department of Medicine, Koc University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sidar Copur
- Department of Medicine, Koc University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ibrahim B Peltek
- Department of Medicine, Koc University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ali Mutlu
- Department of Medicine, Koc University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Francesca Mallamaci
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit Azienda Ospedaliera "Bianchi-Melacrino-Morelli" & CNR-IFC, Institute of Clinical Physiology, Research Unit of Clinical Epidemiology and Physiopathology of Renal Diseases and Hypertension of Reggio Calabria, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Carmine Zoccali
- Renal Research Institute, New York City, New York, USA
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics (Biogem), Ariano Irpino, Italy and Associazione Ipertensione Nefrologia Trapianto Renal (IPNET), c/o Nefrologia, Grande Ospedale Metropolitano, Reggio Calabria, Italy
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Musbat S, Reuveni I, Magnezi R. Social networks as a protective factor for worsened self-perceived health status related to self-perceived changes in loneliness and health conditions in adults aged 50+ during the COVID-19 outbreak. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20529. [PMID: 37860515 PMCID: PMC10582293 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has emerged as a global pandemic, leading millions of people to change their lifestyles, especially older individuals who are the most at-risk population. Social isolation, the main preventive action to slow the pandemic's spread, reduced and drastically limited social connections, increasing older individuals' loneliness and stress, and worsening their health. We examined the connection between self-perceived changes in loneliness, the existence and type of social contact (face-to-face/electronic), and health conditions on self-perceived changes in health status during the outbreak, analyzing 51,778 individuals aged 50 plus from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) database Wave 8 beta (June-August 2020). We found that the odds for worsened self-perceived health status were 249% higher among individuals who reported increased loneliness compared to the non-increase group and were lower in individuals with face-to-face contact (31%) or electronic contact (54%) during the outbreak. In addition, the odds for worsened self-perceived health status were higher for individuals with hypertension (17%), cancer (19%), chronic lung disease (25%), heart problems (27%), and other illnesses (32%). Based on the results obtained, electronic contact has shown a stronger connection as a protective factor for worsened self-perceived health since the outbreak compared to face-to-face interactions. Thus, adopting a policy that encourages the usage of electronic communications could reduce the burden on the healthcare system, particularly during pandemics, while improving patient health outcomes and minimizing pandemic-related health risks. This approach is especially important for older individuals, for whom any departure from home can cause an additional risk of exposure to the virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shay Musbat
- Department of Management, Health Systems Management Program, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel
| | - Inbal Reuveni
- Department of Psychiatry, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Ein Kerem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel
| | - Racheli Magnezi
- Department of Management, Health Systems Management Program, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel
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Hong JH, Nakamura JS, Berkman LF, Chen FS, Shiba K, Chen Y, Kim ES, VanderWeele TJ. Are loneliness and social isolation equal threats to health and well-being? An outcome-wide longitudinal approach. SSM Popul Health 2023; 23:101459. [PMID: 37546381 PMCID: PMC10400921 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2023.101459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The detrimental effects of loneliness and social isolation on health and well-being outcomes are well documented. In response, governments, corporations, and community-based organizations have begun leveraging tools to create interventions and policies aimed at reducing loneliness and social isolation at scale. However, these efforts are frequently hampered by a key knowledge gap: when attempting to improve specific health and well-being outcomes, decision-makers are often unsure whether to target loneliness, social isolation, or both. Filling this knowledge gap will inform the development and refinement of effective interventions. Using data from the Health and Retirement Study (13,752 participants (59% women and 41% men, mean [SD] age = 67 [10] years)), we examined how changes in loneliness and social isolation over a 4-year follow-up period (from t0:2008/2010 to t1:2012/2014) were associated with 32 indicators of physical-, behavioral-, and psychosocial-health outcomes 4-years later (t2:2016/2018). We used multiple logistic-, linear-, and generalized-linear regression models, and adjusted for sociodemographic, personality traits, pre-baseline levels of both exposures (loneliness and social isolation), and all outcomes (t0:2008/2010). We incorporated data from all participants into the overall estimate, regardless of whether their levels of loneliness and social isolation changed from the pre-baseline to baseline waves. After adjusting for a wide range of covariates, we observed that both loneliness and social isolation were associated with several physical health outcomes and health behaviors. However, social isolation was more predictive of mortality risk and loneliness was a stronger predictor of psychological outcomes. Loneliness and social isolation have independent effects on various health and well-being outcomes and thus constitute distinct targets for interventions aimed at improving population health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna H. Hong
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Julia S. Nakamura
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Lisa F. Berkman
- Harvard Center for Population and Development Studies, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Frances S. Chen
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Koichiro Shiba
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Human Flourishing Program, Institute for Quantitative Social Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Eric S. Kim
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Human Flourishing Program, Institute for Quantitative Social Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Lee Kum Sheung Center for Health and Happiness, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tyler J. VanderWeele
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Human Flourishing Program, Institute for Quantitative Social Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Fu X, Wang L, Yuan L, Hu H, Li T, Zhang J, Ke Y, Wang M, Gao Y, Huo W, Chen Y, Zhang W, Liu J, Huang Z, Zhao Y, Hu F, Zhang M, Liu Y, Sun X, Hu D. Long-Term Exposure to Traffic Noise and Risk of Incident Cardiovascular Diseases: a Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis. J Urban Health 2023; 100:788-801. [PMID: 37580544 PMCID: PMC10447855 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-023-00769-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
While noise pollution from transportation has become an important public health problem, the relationships between different sources of traffic noise and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain inconclusive. A comprehensive meta-analysis was therefore conducted to quantitatively assess the effects of long-term exposure to road traffic, railway, and aircraft noise on CVDs and relevant subtypes. We systematically retrieved PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science for articles published before April 4, 2022. Summary relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated by the fixed- or random-effects models. In total, 23 articles were included in our meta-analysis. The risk of CVDs increased by 2% (RR 1.020, 95% CI 1.006-1.035) and 1.6% (RR 1.016, 95% CI 1.000-1.032) for every 10 dB increment of road traffic and aircraft noise. For CVD subtypes, the risk increased by 3.4% (1.034, 1.026-1.043) for stroke and 5% (1.050, 1.006-1.096) for heart failure with each 10 dB increment of road traffic noise; the risk of atrial fibrillation increased by 1.1% (1.011, 1.002-1.021) with each 10 dB increment of railway noise; and the risk increased by 1% (1.010, 1.003-1.017) for myocardial infarction, 2.7% (1.027, 1.004-1.050) for atrial fibrillation, and 2.3% (1.023, 1.016-1.030) for heart failure with each 10 dB increment in aircraft noise. Further, effects from road traffic, railway, and aircraft noise all followed positive linear trends with CVDs. Long-term exposure to traffic noise is positively related to the incidence risk of cardiovascular events, especially road traffic noise which significantly increases the risk of CVDs, stroke, and heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueru Fu
- Department of General Practice, The Affiliated Luohu Hospital of Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China, No. 47 Youyi Road, Luohu District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518001, People's Republic of China
| | - Longkang Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Lijun Yuan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Huifang Hu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianze Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinli Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yamin Ke
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengmeng Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yajuan Gao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Weifeng Huo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaobing Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenkai Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiong Liu
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zelin Huang
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Fulan Hu
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of General Practice, The Affiliated Luohu Hospital of Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China, No. 47 Youyi Road, Luohu District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518001, People's Republic of China
| | - Xizhuo Sun
- Department of General Practice, The Affiliated Luohu Hospital of Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China, No. 47 Youyi Road, Luohu District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518001, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongsheng Hu
- Department of General Practice, The Affiliated Luohu Hospital of Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China, No. 47 Youyi Road, Luohu District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518001, People's Republic of China.
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Fan W, Ma KK, Yang CX, Guo YL. The mediating effect of stigma between self-perceived burden and loneliness in stroke patients. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1219805. [PMID: 37575575 PMCID: PMC10412817 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1219805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Stroke patients may experience reduced socialization and feelings of isolation due to post-stroke sequelae such as impaired motor function and cognitive deficits. Factors associated with loneliness need to be explored to develop targeted interventions. However, little is known about the impact of self-perceived burden and illness stigma on loneliness in this population.The aim of this study was to explore the mediating effect of stigma on self-perceived burden and loneliness in stroke patients. Methods The cluster random sampling method was adopted to select 1028 stroke patients from the neurology department of third-grade A hospitals and second-grade A hospitals in 5 cities of Henan Province from May 2022 to August 2022. A general data questionnaire, self-perceived burden scale, stroke stigma scale, and loneliness scale were used to investigate. The structural equation model was used to analyze the mediating effect of stigma between self-perceived burden and stigma. Results The loneliness of stroke patients was positively correlated with self-perceived burden and stigma. The results of the mediation analysis showed that stigma played a complete mediating role between self-perceived burden and loneliness. Discussion The results of the study revealed the relationship between self-perceived burden, stigma, and loneliness in stroke patients. Stigma mediated the relationship between self-perceived burden and loneliness in this population.Stigma should be emphasized as an important modifiable psychological factor that affects loneliness of stroke patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfeng Fan
- Nursing and Health School, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ke ke Ma
- Neurology of the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Cai xia Yang
- Neurology of the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuan li Guo
- Neurology of the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Pierre-Louis IC, Saczynski JS, Lopez-Pintado S, Waring ME, Abu HO, Goldberg RJ, Kiefe CI, Helm R, McManus DD, Bamgbade BA. Characteristics associated with poor atrial fibrillation-related quality of life in adults with atrial fibrillation. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2023; 24:422-429. [PMID: 37129916 PMCID: PMC10699883 DOI: 10.2459/jcm.0000000000001479] [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] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Few studies have examined the relationship between poor atrial fibrillation-related quality of life (AFQoL) and a battery of geriatric factors. The objective of this study is to describe factors associated with poor AFQoL in older adults with atrial fibrillation (AF) with a focus on sociodemographic and clinical factors and a battery of geriatric factors. METHODS Cross-sectional analysis of a prospective cohort study of participants aged 65+ with high stroke risk and AF. AFQoL was measured using the validated Atrial Fibrillation Effect on Quality of Life (score 0-100) and categorized as poor (<80) or good (80-100). Chi-square and t -tests evaluated differences in factors across poor AFQoL and significant characteristics ( P < 0.05) were entered into a logistic regression model to identify variables related to poor AFQoL. RESULTS Of 1244 participants (mean age 75.5), 42% reported poor AFQoL. Falls in the past 6 months, pre/frail and frailty, depression, anxiety, social isolation, vision impairment, oral anticoagulant therapy, rhythm control, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and polypharmacy were associated with higher odds of poor AFQoL. Marriage and college education were associated with a lower odds of poor AFQoL. CONCLUSIONS More than 4 out of 10 older adults with AF reported poor AFQoL. Geriatric factors associated with higher odds of reporting poor AFQoL include recent falls, frailty, depression, anxiety, social isolation and vision impairment. Findings from this study may help clinicians screen for patients with poor AFQoL who could benefit from tailored management to ensure the delivery of patient-centered care and improved well being among older adults with AF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jane S. Saczynski
- Department of Pharmacy and Health Systems Sciences, School of Pharmacy
| | | | - Molly E. Waring
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT
| | - Hawa O. Abu
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester
- Internal Medicine Department Saint Vincent Hospital, Worcester
| | - Robert J. Goldberg
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester
| | - Catarina I. Kiefe
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester
| | - Robert Helm
- Department of Radiology, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David D. McManus
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester
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50
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Kolossváry E, Farkas K, Karahan O, Golledge J, Schernthaner GH, Karplus T, Bernardo JJ, Marschang S, Abola MT, Heinzmann M, Edmonds M, Catalano M. The importance of socio-economic determinants of health in the care of patients with peripheral artery disease: A narrative review from VAS. Vasc Med 2023; 28:241-253. [PMID: 37154387 PMCID: PMC10265288 DOI: 10.1177/1358863x231169316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Socio-economic determinants of health (SDoH) include various nonmedical factors in the socio-economic sphere with a potentially significant impact on health outcomes. Their effects manifest through several mediators/moderators (behavioral characteristics, physical environment, psychosocial circumstances, access to care, and biological factors). Various critical covariates (age, gender/sex, race/ethnicity, culture/acculturation, and disability status) also interact. Analyzing the effects of these factors is challenging due to their enormous complexity. Although the significance of SDoH for cardiovascular diseases is well documented, research regarding their impact on peripheral artery disease (PAD) occurrence and care is less well documented. This narrative review explores to what extent SDoH are multifaceted in PAD and how they are associated with its occurrence and care. Additionally, methodological issues that may hamper this effort are addressed. Finally, the most important question, whether this association may contribute to reasonable interventions aimed at SDoH, is analyzed. This endeavor requires attention to the social context, a whole systems approach, multilevel-thinking, and a broader alliance that reaches out to more stakeholders outside the medical sphere. More research is needed to justify the power in this concept to improve PAD-related outcomes like lower extremity amputations. At the present time, some evidence, reasonable consideration, and intuitive reasoning support the implementation of various interventions in SDoH in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Endre Kolossváry
- VAS-European Independent Foundation in Angiology/Vascular Medicine
- VAS-International Consortium – International PAD Strategic Network
- Inter-University Research Center on Vascular Disease, Department Biomedical and Clinical Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Angiology, St Imre University Teaching Hospital, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Katalin Farkas
- VAS-European Independent Foundation in Angiology/Vascular Medicine
- VAS-International Consortium – International PAD Strategic Network
- Inter-University Research Center on Vascular Disease, Department Biomedical and Clinical Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Angiology, St Imre University Teaching Hospital, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Oguz Karahan
- VAS-European Independent Foundation in Angiology/Vascular Medicine
- VAS-International Consortium – International PAD Strategic Network
- Inter-University Research Center on Vascular Disease, Department Biomedical and Clinical Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Medical School of Alaaddin Keykubat University, Alanya/Antalya, Diyarbakir, Turkey
| | - Jonathan Golledge
- VAS-European Independent Foundation in Angiology/Vascular Medicine
- VAS-International Consortium – International PAD Strategic Network
- Inter-University Research Center on Vascular Disease, Department Biomedical and Clinical Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- James Cook University & Townsville University Hospital, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Gerit-Holger Schernthaner
- VAS-European Independent Foundation in Angiology/Vascular Medicine
- VAS-International Consortium – International PAD Strategic Network
- Inter-University Research Center on Vascular Disease, Department Biomedical and Clinical Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Karplus
- VAS-European Independent Foundation in Angiology/Vascular Medicine
- VAS-International Consortium – International PAD Strategic Network
- Inter-University Research Center on Vascular Disease, Department Biomedical and Clinical Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Vascular Medicine, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jonathan James Bernardo
- VAS-European Independent Foundation in Angiology/Vascular Medicine
- VAS-International Consortium – International PAD Strategic Network
- Inter-University Research Center on Vascular Disease, Department Biomedical and Clinical Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Vascular Medicine, St Luke’s Medical Center, Quezon, NCR, Philippines
| | - Sascha Marschang
- VAS-European Independent Foundation in Angiology/Vascular Medicine
- VAS-International Consortium – International PAD Strategic Network
- Inter-University Research Center on Vascular Disease, Department Biomedical and Clinical Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department Managing Committee, VAS-European Independent Foundation in Angiology/Vascular Medicine, Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Maria Teresa Abola
- VAS-European Independent Foundation in Angiology/Vascular Medicine
- VAS-International Consortium – International PAD Strategic Network
- Inter-University Research Center on Vascular Disease, Department Biomedical and Clinical Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- University of the Philippines College of Medicine–Philippine, Philippine Heart Center, Quezon, Philippines
| | - Monica Heinzmann
- VAS-European Independent Foundation in Angiology/Vascular Medicine
- VAS-International Consortium – International PAD Strategic Network
- Inter-University Research Center on Vascular Disease, Department Biomedical and Clinical Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Angiology Unit, Allende Sanatorium, Nueva, Cordóba, Argentina
| | - Michael Edmonds
- VAS-European Independent Foundation in Angiology/Vascular Medicine
- VAS-International Consortium – International PAD Strategic Network
- Inter-University Research Center on Vascular Disease, Department Biomedical and Clinical Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- King’s College Hospital, Diabetic Foot Clinic, London, UK
| | - Mariella Catalano
- VAS-European Independent Foundation in Angiology/Vascular Medicine
- VAS-International Consortium – International PAD Strategic Network
- Inter-University Research Center on Vascular Disease, Department Biomedical and Clinical Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences L Sacco Hospital, Inter-University Research Center on Vascular Disease, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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