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Socioeconomic and ethnic inequalities in incidence and severity of enteric fever in England 2015-2019: analysis of a national enhanced surveillance system. Epidemiol Infect 2023; 151:e29. [PMID: 36722253 PMCID: PMC9990404 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268822001959] [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: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
There is limited research on whether inequalities exist among individuals from different ethnicities and deprivation status among enteric fever cases. The aim of the study was to investigate the association between the enteric fever incidence rates, ethnicity and deprivation for enteric fever cases in England. Additionally, it was assessed if ethnicity and deprivation were associated with symptom severity, hospital admission and absence from school/work using logistic regression models. Incidence rates were higher in the two most deprived index of multiple deprivation quintiles and those of Pakistani ethnicity (9.89, 95% CI 9.08-10.75) followed by Indian (7.81, 95% CI 7.18-8.49) and Bangladeshi (5.68, 95% CI 4.74-6.76) groups: the incidence rate in the White group was 0.07 (95% CI 0.06-0.08). Individuals representing Pakistani (3.00, 95% CI 1.66-5.43), Indian (2.05, 95% CI 1.18-3.54) and Other/Other Asian (3.51, 95% CI 1.52-8.14) ethnicities had significantly higher odds of hospital admission than individuals representing White (British/Other) ethnicity, although all three groups had statistically significantly lower symptom severity scores. Our results show that there are significant ethnic and socioeconomic inequalities in enteric fever incidence that should inform prevention and treatment strategies. Targeted, community-specific public health interventions are needed to impact on overall burden.
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Yu CP, Lin IJ, Wang BL, Tsao CH, Huang SH, Huang YC, Sun CA, Chung CH, Hu JM, Chien WC. Intestinal infectious diseases increase the risk of psychiatric disorders: A nationwide population-based cohort study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e30959. [PMID: 36221435 PMCID: PMC9543017 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000030959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Intestinal infectious diseases (IIDs) are among the most common diseases and are prevalent worldwide. IIDs are also one of the major disease groups with the highest incidence worldwide, especially among children and older adults. We observed a higher probability of IIDs in patients from the psychiatric department of Tri-Service General Hospital. Therefore, our objective was to investigate if there is an association between IIDs and the risk of developing psychiatric disorders. This nationwide population-based study used the database of the National Health Insurance (NHI) program in Taiwan. The study included 150,995 patients from 2000 to 2015, comprising 30,199 patients with IIDs as the study group and 120,796 patients without IIDs as the control group. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was performed to calculate the hazard ratio of psychiatric disorders during the 16-year follow-up. Of the patients with IIDs, 4022 (13.32%) developed psychiatric disorders compared to 8119 (6.72%) who did not (P < .001). The adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) for overall psychiatric disorders in the study group was 2.724 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.482-2.976; P < .001). More specifically, the study group had a higher risk of developing a psychiatric disorder, including sleep disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)/acute stress disorder (ASD), schizophrenia, mental retardation (MR), substance abuse, and other psychiatric disorders. Furthermore, refractory IIDs (seeking medical attention for IIDs 3 or more times) increased the risk (aHR: 3.918; 95% CI: 3.569-4.280; P < .001) of developing psychiatric disorders. There was an association between IIDs and the increased risk of developing psychiatric disorders. The novel role of etiological factors in the development of psychiatric disorders deserves more attention, and the control of pathogens that cause IIDs is of urgent public health importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Peng Yu
- Department of Medical Research, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Public Health, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Iau-Jin Lin
- Department of Medical Research, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Bing-Long Wang
- School of Public Health, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chang-Huei Tsao
- Department of Medical Research, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shi-Hao Huang
- Department of Medical Research, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Public Health, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yao-Ching Huang
- Department of Medical Research, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Public Health, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-An Sun
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, Fu-Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Big Data Research Center, College of Medicine, Fu-Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Hsiang Chung
- Department of Medical Research, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Public Health, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Taiwanese Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion Association, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Je-Ming Hu
- Division of Colorectal Surgery, Department of surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- *Correspondence: Wu-Chien Chien, Department of Medical Research, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan and Je-Ming Hu, Division of Colorectal Surgery, Department of surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan (e-mail: (W-CC) and (J-MH))
| | - Wu-Chien Chien
- Department of Medical Research, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Public Health, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Taiwanese Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion Association, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- *Correspondence: Wu-Chien Chien, Department of Medical Research, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan and Je-Ming Hu, Division of Colorectal Surgery, Department of surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan (e-mail: (W-CC) and (J-MH))
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Davies R, Iturriza-Gómara M, Glennon-Alty R, Elliot AJ, Vivancos R, Alvarez Nishio A, Cunliffe NA, Hungerford D. Public acceptability of a technology-mediated stool sample collection platform to inform community-based surveillance of infectious intestinal disease: a pilot study. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:958. [PMID: 35562817 PMCID: PMC9099322 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13307-5] [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: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the UK approximately a quarter of the population experience infectious intestinal disease (IID) each year. However, only 2% present to primary care, preventing a true determination of community burden and pathogen aetiology. The aim of this pilot study was to gauge public acceptability of a technology-mediated platform for reporting episodes of IID and for providing stool samples. METHODS This study employed a cross-sectional online survey design, targeting individuals 16 + years old within Liverpool City Region, UK. Information sought included demographics, comfortability of reporting illness and IID symptoms, willingness to provide stool, and favoured stool-provision method. Univariable logistic regression was used to examine associations between demographic variables and providing a stool sample. Odds ratios (OR) and associated 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were produced. RESULTS A total of 174 eligible participants completed the survey, with 69% female. The sample was skewed towards younger populations, with 2.9% aged 65 + years. Nearly a third (29%) had a household income of less than £30,000 per annum and 70% had attained a degree or higher. The majority identified as White British (81%) and 11% identified as ethnicities typically grouped Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME). Three quarters of participants were either 'Comfortable' or 'Very Comfortable' with reporting illness (75%) and with answering symptom-related questions (79%); 78% reported that they would provide a stool sample. Upon univariable analysis, increasing age - being 55 + (OR 6.28, 95% CI 1.15-117.48), and lower income (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.02-6.60), was associated with willingness to provide a stool sample. Additionally, respondents identifying as BAME ethnicities and men may be less inclined to provide a stool sample. CONCLUSIONS This pilot study assessed the acceptability of technology-mediated platforms for reporting IID and provision of stool samples in the community. Respondents were biased towards younger, technologically inclined, more affluent and educated populations. Acceptability for reporting illness and providing a stool sample through technology-mediated platforms was high. While older populations were under-represented, they were more likely to agree to provide a stool sample. Qualitative research is required to better reach older and more deprived populations, and to understand potential age, gender and ethnic differences in compliance with stool sampling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowan Davies
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Health Protection Research Unit in Gastrointestinal Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,School of Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Miren Iturriza-Gómara
- Centre for Vaccine Innovation and Access, PATH, Geneva, Switzerland.,Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Rebecca Glennon-Alty
- Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Alex J Elliot
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Health Protection Research Unit in Gastrointestinal Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Real-Time Syndromic Surveillance Team, Field Service, Health Protection Operations, UK Health Security Agency, Birmingham, UK.,National Institute for Health and Care Research Health Protection Research Unit in Emergency Preparedness and Response, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Roberto Vivancos
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Health Protection Research Unit in Gastrointestinal Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Field Epidemiology North West, Field Service, Health Protection Operations, UK Health Security Agency, Liverpool, UK.,National Institute for Health and Care Research Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Nigel A Cunliffe
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Health Protection Research Unit in Gastrointestinal Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Daniel Hungerford
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Health Protection Research Unit in Gastrointestinal Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK. .,Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK. .,Field Epidemiology North West, Field Service, Health Protection Operations, UK Health Security Agency, Liverpool, UK. .,National Institute for Health and Care Research Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
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de Gier B, Houben-van Herten M, Uiters E, Hahné SJM. Educational differences in acute infectious diseases in the Netherlands: results from a nationwide health survey. Eur J Public Health 2021; 30:270-275. [PMID: 31981359 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckz230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is unclear to what extent socioeconomic inequalities exist in common infectious diseases in high-income countries. We aimed to explore educational differences in five common acute infectious diseases in adults in the Netherlands. METHODS As part of a year-round repeated cross-sectional health survey, adults aged 25 and older were asked if they had experienced acute upper or lower respiratory tract infections, acute otitis media, urinary tract infections or gastro-enteritis in the two previous months. If so, participants were asked whether they had consulted their general practitioner and if they had been unable to perform their normal daily activities. These outcomes were analyzed per highest attained level of education. RESULTS Data of 18 629 survey respondents were used in the analyses. People with a low educational level had lower odds of upper respiratory tract infections (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.81-0.95), but higher odds of lower respiratory tract infections (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.16-2.11). After adjustment for several covariates, the differences in upper respiratory tract infections remained statistically significant (aOR 0.84, 95% CI 0.77-0.91). The educational differences in lower respiratory tract infections were mitigated by adjusting for chronic diseases and health behaviours. For all infectious diseases, the likelihood of general practitioner consultation was highest for the lower educated group. Inability to work or perform normal daily activities due to an infectious disease was similar across all levels of education. CONCLUSION This study shows that educational differences in incidence and care seeking behaviours exist for common acute infectious diseases in the Netherlands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brechje de Gier
- Department for Early Warning and Surveillance, Centre for Epidemiology and Surveillance of Infectious Diseases, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | | | - Ellen Uiters
- Centre for Nutrition, Prevention and Health Services, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Susan J M Hahné
- Department for Early Warning and Surveillance, Centre for Epidemiology and Surveillance of Infectious Diseases, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
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Chen T, Kallawicha K. Association between sanitary toilet coverage rate and intestinal infectious disease in Jiangsu Province, China. Sci Rep 2021; 11:12805. [PMID: 34140599 PMCID: PMC8211806 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92291-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Intestinal infectious disease is one of the most common diseases in China and is prevalent worldwide. The Chinese government launched a toilet improvement campaign to improve sanitation and reduce the incidence of diseases. This study determined the association between sanitary toilet use and intestinal infectious disease incidence in Jiangsu Province, China during 2011–2019. This study adopted an ecological retrospective research design. All secondary data were obtained through government websites and government information disclosure channels. Multiple linear regression was employed to analyze the association between the incidence of intestinal infectious diseases and sanitary toilet coverage rate and other potential predictors. Data suggested that the aggregate annual incidence of Type A and B intestinal infectious diseases showed a downward trend, the aggregate annual incidence of other infectious diarrhea continued to increase, and hand–foot–mouth disease occurred every other year with the highest annual incidence rate. The incidence was higher in coastal cities. Multiple regression results indicated that the usage of three types of sanitary toilets, compliance rate of water quality, and average ambient temperature have an impact on intestinal infectious diseases. The aggregate annual incidence of Type A and B intestinal infectious disease was negatively correlated with the cumulative use of sanitary toilets (β = − 0.036) and surface water quality (β = − 0.135; p < 0.05). Increase in sanitary toilet use and water quality control can reduce the number of new cases, which will be beneficial for the population in the province. Moreover, the toilet improvement interventions should continue to maintain high-quality construction.
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Affiliation(s)
- TingTing Chen
- College of Public Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, 11th floor (Room no. 1110) Institute Building 3, Soi Chulalongkorn 62, Phyathai Rd, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Kraiwuth Kallawicha
- College of Public Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, 11th floor (Room no. 1110) Institute Building 3, Soi Chulalongkorn 62, Phyathai Rd, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
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McGarrol S, Kaley A, Eastham R, Whitehead M, Limmer M. Disgusting disruptions: Capturing the everyday experience and burden of managing gastrointestinal infections in the home. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2021; 29:284-293. [PMID: 32656872 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) infections exert a significant public health burden in the United Kingdom and the numbers of episodes are increasing. Younger children are considered particularly vulnerable to infection, and can experience 2-3 GI infections episodes per year, with consequences being more severe for more disadvantaged children, who are much more likely to be admitted to hospital. Few qualitative studies have explored the lived experience of GI infection in the community in the UK. The aim of the study reported here was to contribute to addressing this evidence gap, by examining the consequences of GI infection for 'normal' family life. Eighteen mothers with young children who had recently experienced a gastrointestinal infection were recruited from two socioeconomically contrasting neighbourhoods in North West of England. The findings demonstrated that GI infections were particularly disruptive: experienced as disgusting, laborious and stressful and significantly impacted normal family routines. Women felt burdened by the heavy physical and emotional demands of caring for a GI infection, resulting in feelings of isolation and insufficient support in their caring role from male partners. Tensions also arose from interactions with external community organisations, particularly in complying with their regulations on infection which often undermined caregivers knowledge and expertise of what was best for their children. This study challenges assumptions that managing GI infections in the home is unproblematic and experienced by caregivers as a 'minor ailment.' Infection control measures need to incorporate insights gleaned from the day-to-day realities of caring for sick children in the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah McGarrol
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Gastrointestinal Infection, Farr Institute @ The Health eResearch Centre, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Alex Kaley
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, Furness College, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Rachael Eastham
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, Furness College, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Margaret Whitehead
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, The Quadrangle, Liverpool, UK
| | - Mark Limmer
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, Furness College, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
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Risk factors associated with outbreaks of seasonal infectious disease in school settings, England, UK. Epidemiol Infect 2020; 148:e287. [PMID: 33203492 PMCID: PMC7770374 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268820002824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Children are important transmitters of infection. Within schools they encounter large numbers of contacts and infections can spread easily causing outbreaks. However, not all schools are affected equally. We conducted a retrospective analysis of school outbreaks to identify factors associated with the risk of gastroenteritis, influenza, rash or other outbreaks. Data on reported school outbreaks in England were obtained from Public Health England and linked with data from the Department for Education and the Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills (Ofsted). Primary and all-through schools were found to be at increased risk of outbreaks, compared with secondary schools (odds ratio (OR) 5.82, 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.50–7.58 and OR 4.66, 95% CI 3.27–6.61, respectively). School size was also significantly associated with the risk of outbreaks, with higher odds associated with larger schools. Attack rates were higher in gastroenteritis and influenza outbreaks, with lower attack rates associated with rashes (relative risk 0.17, 95% CI 0.15–0.20). Deprivation and Ofsted rating were not associated with either outbreak occurrence or the subsequent attack rate. This study identifies primary and all-through schools as key settings for health protection interventions. Public health teams need to work closely with these schools to encourage early identification and reporting of outbreaks.
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Eastham R, Kaley A. "We're Talking About You, Not to You": Methodological Reflections on Public Health Research With Families With Young Children. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2020; 30:1888-1898. [PMID: 32396056 PMCID: PMC7905741 DOI: 10.1177/1049732320917927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
In this article, we critically reflect upon the experience of public health research involving children and contribute to existing conversations about the methodological and ethical facets of research in this field. Drawing on two phases of a study that sought to explore the lived experiences of families with young children who have had a recent common childhood illness (gastrointestinal infection), we address the research process, from inception of the studies, to fieldwork and the resultant material obtained. We argue that when researching with families about a child-centered experience, it is important to look beyond the individual adult as "participant" and to conceptualize dependents either as, or "like" participants-what we suggest as a "family-centered approach." Theoretically, this strategy best addresses the lived reality of relationality and responsibility of parent/carers for dependent children; while improving the ease and safety of data collection for the researcher and participants alike.
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Rose TC, Adams NL, Whitehead M, Wickham S, O'Brien SJ, Hawker J, Taylor-Robinson DC, Violato M, Barr B. Neighbourhood unemployment and other socio-demographic predictors of emergency hospitalisation for infectious intestinal disease in England: A longitudinal ecological study. J Infect 2020; 81:736-742. [PMID: 32888980 PMCID: PMC7649336 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2020.08.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We examined trends in infectious intestinal disease (IID) hospitalisations in England. Overall IID admission rates for children and older adults declined between 2012 & 2017. Increasing unemployment was associated with increasing IID admission rates. Healthcare access, underlying morbidity and ethnicity were also associated with IID rates. Policies should address inequalities in emergency IID hospitalisations.
Background Previous studies have observed that infectious intestinal disease (IID) related hospital admissions are higher in more deprived neighbourhoods. These studies have mainly focused on paediatric populations and are cross-sectional in nature. This study examines recent trends in emergency IID admission rates, and uses longitudinal methods to investigate the effects of unemployment (as a time varying measure of neighbourhood deprivation) and other socio-demographic characteristics on IID admissions for adults and children in England. Methods A longitudinal ecological analysis was performed using Hospital Episode Statistics on emergency hospitalisations for IID, collected over the time period 2012–17 across England. Analysis was conducted at the neighbourhood (Lower-layer Super Output Area) level for three age groups (0–14; 15–64; 65+ years). Mixed-effect Poisson regression models were used to assess the relationship between trends in neighbourhood unemployment and emergency IID admission rates, whilst controlling for measures of primary and secondary care access, underlying morbidity and the ethnic composition of each neighbourhood. Results From 2012–17, declining trends in emergency IID admission rates were observed for children and older adults overall, while rates increased for some sub-groups in the population. Each 1 percentage point increase in unemployment was associated with a 6.3, 2.4 and 4% increase in the rate of IID admissions per year for children [IRR=1.06, 95%CI 1.06–1.07], adults [IRR=1.02, 95%CI 1.02–1.03] and older adults [IRR=1.04, 95%CI 1.036–1.043], respectively. Increases in poor primary care access, the percentage of people from a Pakistani ethnic background, and the prevalence of long-term health problems, in a neighbourhood, were also associated with increases in IID admission rates. Conclusions Increasing trends in neighbourhood deprivation, as measured by unemployment, were associated with increases in emergency IID admission rates for children and adults in England, despite controlling for measures of healthcare access, underlying morbidity and ethnicity. Research is needed to improve understanding of the mechanisms that explain these inequalities, so that effective policies can be developed to reduce the higher emergency IID admission rates experienced by more disadvantaged communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanith C Rose
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, University of Liverpool, Waterhouse Building 2nd Floor Block F, Liverpool, UK.
| | - Natalie L Adams
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, University of Liverpool, Waterhouse Building 2nd Floor Block F, Liverpool, UK
| | - Margaret Whitehead
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, University of Liverpool, Waterhouse Building 2nd Floor Block F, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sophie Wickham
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, University of Liverpool, Waterhouse Building 2nd Floor Block F, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sarah J O'Brien
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jeremy Hawker
- National Infection Service, Public Health England, Birmingham, UK
| | - David C Taylor-Robinson
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, University of Liverpool, Waterhouse Building 2nd Floor Block F, Liverpool, UK
| | - Mara Violato
- Health Economics Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Benjamin Barr
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, University of Liverpool, Waterhouse Building 2nd Floor Block F, Liverpool, UK
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Family income and exposure to norovirus in childhood: Findings from the UK Millennium Cohort Study. SSM Popul Health 2019; 8:100445. [PMID: 31440576 PMCID: PMC6698927 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2019.100445] [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: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Children from low income families are at greater risk of poorer health outcomes than their wealthier peers. Hospital admissions for children with gastroenteritis increase as deprivation increases. Noroviruses are responsible for 47-96% of outbreaks of acute paediatric gastroenteritis, and 5-36% of sporadic cases worldwide. However, evidence on the relationship between family income and childhood exposure to norovirus is still limited, with published studies pointing to conflicting results. This study explored the relationship between family income and early childhood exposure to norovirus in the United Kingdom using data from the Millennium Cohort Study linked to serological data. Exposure to norovirus was measured by the level of human norovirus-specific antibodies (titres) obtained from oral fluid samples collected from 5962 pre-school age UK children and tested for Norovirus-specific Immunoglobulin G (IgG). Multivariable linear and quantile regression analyses were conducted to investigate the extent to which family income was associated with child norovirus exposure, and to explore the potential mechanisms through which income might translate into norovirus exposure. Higher norovirus-specific IgG titres were associated with higher family income, but the relationship weakened after controlling for potential mediating factors, mainly increased opportunities for person-to-person contacts, such as formal childcare arrangements. This study provides novel evidence that can help inform and prioritise policy interventions (e.g. vaccination) and health promotion programmes to reduce child health inequalities in the area of gastrointestinal infections.
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McKerr C, Chalmers RM, Vivancos R, O'Brien SJ, Mugarza J, Christley RM. Cross-sectional investigation of household transmission of Cryptosporidium in England and Wales: the epiCrypt study protocol. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e026116. [PMID: 31230003 PMCID: PMC6596955 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-026116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Infection with the Cryptosporidium parasite causes over 4000 cases of diagnosed illness (cryptosporidiosis) in England and Wales each year. Risk factors are often estimated from outbreak investigations, and in the UK include ingestion of contaminated water and food, farm/animal contact and person-to-person spread in institutions. However, reported outbreaks only represent about 10% of cases and the transmission routes for sporadic disease may not be the same. Contact with other people has been highlighted as a factor in the transmission of Cryptosporidium, but the incidence of sporadic disease has not been sufficiently established, and how frequently this arises from contact with other infected people is not well documented. This project will estimate the amount of secondary spread that occurs in the home and potentially identify asymptomatic infections which might have a role in transmission. Risk factors and characteristics associated with secondary spread will be described including any differences in transmission between Cryptosporidium species. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The study will prospectively identify cryptosporidiosis cases from North West England and Wales over 1 year and invite them and their household to take part. Each household will complete a questionnaire and each household member will be asked to provide a stool sample. Clinical, demographic and home variables will be described, and further analyses undertaken to investigate associations with secondary spread in the home. Cryptosporidium-positive stool samples, identified by immunofluorescence microscopy, will be characterised using molecular methods to describe patterns of transmission. Data collection is expected to take 1 year, beginning in September 2018. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study has been approved by the North West-Liverpool East NHS Research Ethics Committee (Reference: 18/NW/0300) and the Confidentiality and Advisory Group (Reference 18/CAG/0084). Outputs will include scientific conferences and peer-reviewed publications. In addition, a short, lay report of findings will be produced for participants, who can opt to receive this when they take part. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER CPMS ID: 39458.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caoimhe McKerr
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Gastrointestinal Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
| | - Rachel M Chalmers
- Cryptosporidium Reference Unit, Public Health Wales, Swansea, UK
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, UK
| | - Roberto Vivancos
- Field Epidemiology Services, Health Protection, Public Health England, Liverpool, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, The University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sarah J O'Brien
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Gastrointestinal Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Institute of Psychology, Health and Society, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Julie Mugarza
- NIHR Clinical Research Network North West Coast, Liverpool, UK
| | - Robert M Christley
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
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A spatial and temporal analysis of risk factors associated with sporadic Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O157 infection in England between 2009 and 2015. Epidemiol Infect 2018; 146:1928-1939. [PMID: 30205851 DOI: 10.1017/s095026881800256x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Infection with STEC O157 is relatively rare but has potentially serious sequelae, particularly for children. Large outbreaks have prompted considerable efforts designed to reduce transmission primarily from food and direct animal contact. Despite these interventions, numbers of infections have remained constant for many years and the mechanisms leading to many sporadic infections remain unclear.Here, we show that two-thirds of all cases reported in England between 2009 and 2015 were sporadic. Crude rates of infection differed geographically and were highest in rural areas during the summer months. Living in rural areas with high densities of cattle, sheep or pigs and those served by private water supplies were associated with increased risk. Living in an area of lower deprivation contributed to increased risk but this appeared to be associated with reported travel abroad. Fresh water coverage and residential proximity to the coast were not risk factors.To reduce the overall burden of infection in England, interventions designed to reduce the number of sporadic infections with STEC should focus on the residents of rural areas with high densities of livestock and the effective management of non-municipal water supplies. The role of sheep as a reservoir and potential source of infection in humans should not be overlooked.
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