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Yong EL, Wong BWX, Shen L, Hong EYT, Cheong CWZ, Kramer MS, Ng R. Prevalence and incidence of pelvic organ prolapse, bowel and urinary dysfunction in the Integrated Woman's Health Program. Maturitas 2024; 189:108106. [PMID: 39213930 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2024.108106] [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: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite its high prevalence, little information is available on the natural history of pelvic floor dysfunction. We aimed to determine the prevalence, incidence and persistence of pelvic organ prolapse (POP), bowel and urinary symptoms over 6-7 years and its associated factors. STUDY DESIGN Women from a midlife cohort in Asia completed baseline and 6-7-year follow-up assessments. Sociodemographic characteristics and health conditions were obtained at baseline using validated questionnaires. Body mass index (BMI) and physical performance were objectively measured. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES POP, bowel, and urinary dysfunction were measured using the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory Short Form 20 at both timepoints. Binary logistic regression was used to analyze independent associations between baseline risk factors and prevalent, new, and persistent symptoms. RESULTS Of the 1201 women enrolled at baseline, 62.3 % had symptoms in at least one domain of pelvic floor dysfunction. Poor sleep, poorer perceived health, and disability were associated with prevalent pelvic floor symptoms, while poor sleep doubled the adjusted risk of incident POP (adjusted odds ratio, aOR: 2.3, 95 % Confidence Interval: 1.4-3.9), bowel (aOR: 2.3, 1.4-3.7) and urinary (aOR: 1.7, 1.1-2.9) symptoms at the 6.6-year follow-up visit. Postmenopausal women had reduced risks of prevalent POP (aOR: 0.5, 0.3-0.7) and urinary symptoms (aOR: 0.4, 0.3-0.6), as well as a reduced risk of developing incident urinary symptoms (aOR: 0.4, 0.2-0.8). Good physical performance scores at baseline reduced the risk of incident bowel symptoms (aOR: 0.5, 0.2-0.9), whereas obesity increased the risks of persistent symptoms. CONCLUSION Poor sleep quality independently predicted incident pelvic floor dysfunction, while poor physical performance was associated with incident bowel symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eu-Leong Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, 119228, Singapore.
| | - Beverly W X Wong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Liang Shen
- Biostatistics Unit, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Eliane Y T Hong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Clare W Z Cheong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Michael S Kramer
- Departments of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and of Pediatrics, McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Montreal, QC H3G 2M1, Canada
| | - Roy Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, 119228, Singapore
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Wong BWX, Chan YH, Logan S, Kramer MS, Yong EL. Arthralgia in midlife Singaporean women: the Integrated Women's Health Program (IWHP). Climacteric 2024; 27:178-186. [PMID: 38099561 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2023.2287626] [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: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Arthralgia is a common menopausal complaint in midlife women, and its causes remain unclear. We examined the prevalence of menopausal arthralgia with various factors including sleep quality, depression/anxiety, muscle strength and physical performance among midlife Singaporean women. METHODS The Integrated Women's Health Program (IWHP) comprised 1120 healthy, community-dwelling women of Chinese, Malay or Indian ethnicities (aged 45-69 years) attending well-women clinics at the National University Hospital, Singapore. Sociodemographic, menopausal, reproductive and health data were obtained with validated questionnaires. Muscle strength, physical performance and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry were measured. Women with moderate to very severe symptoms using the Menopause Rating Scale were classified as having arthralgia. Multivariable logistic regression analyses examined risk factors for arthralgia. RESULTS One-third of the participants reported arthralgia, and 12.7%, 16.2% and 71.2% were in the premenopausal, perimenopausal and postmenopausal period, respectively. Menopausal symptoms, such as vaginal dryness (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.64, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.64, 4.24) and physical/mental exhaustion (aOR: 2.83, 95% CI: 1.79, 4.47), were independent risk factors for arthralgia. Poor muscle strength (aOR: 2.20, 95% CI: 1.29, 3.76), obesity (aOR: 1.94, 95% CI: 1.13, 3.32) and rheumatoid arthritis (aOR: 7.73, 95% CI: 4.47, 13.36) were also independently associated with arthralgia after adjustment for confounders. CONCLUSIONS Arthralgia in midlife Singaporean women was associated with menopausal symptoms of vaginal dryness and physical and mental exhaustion. Women with poor muscle strength were more likely to experience menopausal arthralgia.
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Affiliation(s)
- B W X Wong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Y H Chan
- Biostatistics Unit, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - S Logan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - M S Kramer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Departments of Epidemiology, Biostatistics & Occupational Health and of Pediatrics, McGill University Faculty of Medicine, Quebec, Canada
| | - E L Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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Wang LYT, Thu WPP, Chan YH, Logan S, Kramer MS, Cauley JA, Yong EL. Associations between hypertension with reproductive and menopausal factors: An integrated women's health programme (IWHP) study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299840. [PMID: 38527015 PMCID: PMC10962834 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women are less likely to have classic cardiovascular risk factors than men, and events during their reproductive and menopausal years may increase hypertension risk. The aim of this study is to examine woman-specific factors, including menstrual, reproductive and pregnancy complications, in relation to the prevalence of hypertension in mid-life Asian women. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study of 1146 healthy women aged 45-69 years, from a multi-ethnic Asian cohort. The women completed an extensive questionnaire that included their sociodemographic details, medical history, lifestyle and physical activity, and reproductive and menopausal history. They also underwent objectively measured physical performance tests and a dual X-ray absorptiometry scan. Hypertension was defined as a systolic BP ≥140 and/or diastolic BP ≥90mm Hg, past diagnosis by a physician, or use of antihypertensive medications. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the independent risk factors for hypertension. RESULTS The average age of the 1146 women analysed was 56.3 (SD 6.2) years, and 55.2 percent of them were hypertensive. The prevalence of gestational diabetes and gestational hypertension was 12.6% and 9.4%, respectively. Besides age, abnormal menstrual cycle length at 25 years of age (OR:2.35, CI:1.34-4.13), preeclampsia (OR:2.46, CI:1.06-5.74), increased visceral adiposity (OR:4.21, CI:2.28-7.79) and reduced physical performance (OR:2.83, CI:1.46-5.47) were independently associated with hypertension in Asian women. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the necessity of including features of menstrual and reproductive history as possible indicators of hypertension risk in cardiovascular disease risk assessment and prevention among Asian women. Reducing visceral adiposity and exercise to improve physical performance may help women avoid developing hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laureen Yi-Ting Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- National University Heart Centre, National University Hospital Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Win P. P. Thu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yiong Huak Chan
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Biostatistics Unit, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Susan Logan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Michael S. Kramer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Departments of Epidemiology, Biostatistics & Occupational Health and of Pediatrics, McGill University Faculty of Medicine, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jane A. Cauley
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States of America
| | - Eu-Leong Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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Logan S, Wong BWX, Tan JHI, Kramer MS, Yong EL. Menopausal symptoms in midlife Singaporean women: Prevalence rates and associated factors from the Integrated Women's Health Programme (IWHP). Maturitas 2023; 178:107853. [PMID: 37806008 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2023.107853] [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: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Menopausal symptoms can substantially impact quality of life. We studied somatic, psychological, and urogenital symptoms and their associated factors. DESIGN Cross-sectional study of healthy midlife Singaporean women from three major Asian ethnic groups. METHODS In 2014-16, women aged 45 to 69 attending well-woman clinics at the National University Hospital Singapore completed the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS). Sociodemographic, reproductive, medical, anthropometric, body composition, and physical performance characteristics were assessed using validated questionnaires and strict protocols. We analysed sub-scales and total scores by median split, and adjusted odds ratios using multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS Of the 1054 eligible women, 62.6 % reported at least one moderate to extremely severe symptom. The top five menopausal symptoms were joint and muscle discomfort, sleep problems, vaginal dryness, physical and mental exhaustion, and hot flushes. Higher total scores on the MRS were associated with moderate disability (adjusted odds ratio: 9.80, 95 % confidence interval: 2.88-33.34), poorer self-rated health status (2.18, 1.60-2.97), menstrual irregularity at 25 years (1.63, 1.07-2.49), and slower chair stands (1.49, 1.09-2.03). Age ≥65 (0.54, 0.30-0.94) and a lower level of education (0.45, 0.26-0.76) had significant inverse associations with total MRS score. CONCLUSIONS Menopausal symptoms were associated with disability, poorer health status, and weaker lower-body muscle strength. These data add to the limited Asian evidence and raise the profile of this important area of health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Logan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University Hospital, 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road, Level 3, 119074, Singapore; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 1E Kent Ridge Road, NUHS Tower Block Level 12, 119228, Singapore
| | - Beverly Wen Xin Wong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 1E Kent Ridge Road, NUHS Tower Block Level 12, 119228, Singapore
| | - Joelle Hwee Inn Tan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 1E Kent Ridge Road, NUHS Tower Block Level 12, 119228, Singapore
| | - Michael S Kramer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 1E Kent Ridge Road, NUHS Tower Block Level 12, 119228, Singapore; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics & Occupational Health, McGill University Faculty of Medicine, 3605 Rue de la Montagne Montréal, Quebec H3G 2M1, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, McGill University Faculty of Medicine, 3605 Rue de la Montagne Montréal, Quebec H3G 2M1, Canada
| | - Eu-Leong Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University Hospital, 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road, Level 3, 119074, Singapore; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 1E Kent Ridge Road, NUHS Tower Block Level 12, 119228, Singapore.
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Wong BWX, Thu WPP, Chan YH, Logan SJS, Cauley JA, Yong EL. Association of sarcopenia with important health conditions among community-dwelling Asian women. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0281144. [PMID: 36716336 PMCID: PMC9886252 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0281144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to examine sarcopenia prevalence using the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 (AWGS) and the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH) definitions, and their associations with important health conditions affecting midlife Singaporean women. Muscle mass and function were objectively assessed in 1201 healthy community-dwelling subjects aged 45-69 years under the Integrated Women's Health Program (IWHP). Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), handgrip strength and the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) were measured, and the relationship between sarcopenia with hypertension, type 2 diabetes (T2DM), osteoporosis, depression/anxiety, and urinary incontinence were examined using binary logistic regression models. Sarcopenia prevalence was 18.0% and 7.7% by the AWGS and FNIH criteria respectively. Osteoporosis (aOR: 1.74, 95% CI: 1.02, 2.94) and T2DM (aOR: 1.98, 95% CI: 1.14, 3.42) was positively associated with AWGS- and FNIH-defined sarcopenia respectively, while hypertension was not, after adjustment for age, ethnicity, education levels and menopausal status. A negative percent agreement of 95.6% suggests good agreement between the criteria in the absence of sarcopenia. Even though they represent a single concept, sarcopenia by either criterion differed in their relationships with diabetes and osteoporosis, suggesting the need for further rationalization of diagnostic criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beverly Wen-Xin Wong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Win Pa Pa Thu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yiong Huak Chan
- Biostatistics Unit, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Susan Jane Sinclair Logan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jane A. Cauley
- Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States of America
| | - Eu-Leong Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- * E-mail:
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Wong BW, Chan YH, Kramer MS, Sundström-Poromaa I, Logan S, Cauley JA, Yong EL. Factors associated with poor sleep quality in midlife Singaporean women: The Integrated Women's Health program (IWHP). Sleep Med X 2022; 5:100060. [PMID: 36568060 PMCID: PMC9772553 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleepx.2022.100060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To examine factors associated with poor sleep quality in community-dwelling midlife women. Methods Healthy women (aged 45-69 years) of Chinese, Malay and Indian ethnicities attending well-women clinics at the National University Hospital, Singapore, completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). A PQSI score >5 denoted poor sleep quality. The women filled out validated questionnaires covering menopausal and genito-urinary symptoms, and mental health. Physical performance was measured. Bone mineral density and visceral adiposity were assessed by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Binary logistic regression analyses assessed independent factors for poor sleep. Results Poor sleep quality was reported in 38.2% of women (n = 1094, mean age: 56.4 ± 6.2 years). Indian women had higher sleep disturbance scores than Chinese women (mean ± SD: 1.33 ± 0.58 vs 1.17 ± 0.49). Malays experienced more daytime dysfunction (0.54 ± 0.60 vs 0.33 ± 0.55) and had a higher overall PSQI score (6.00 ± 3.31 vs 5.02 ± 2.97) than the Chinese. A low education level (aOR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.01-3.05), feelings of irritability (2.67, 1.56-4.60) and vaginal dryness (1.62, 1.03-2.54) were associated with poor sleep quality in the adjusted multivariable model. Women with moderate to severe disability were ∼3 times (2.99, 1.20-7.44) more likely to experience less than ideal sleep quality, while urinary incontinence (1.53, 1.08-2.17) and breast cancer history (2.77, 1.36-5.64) were also associates of poor sleep quality. Conclusion Self-reports of education level, irritability, vaginal dryness, disability, urinary incontinence, and breast cancer history were independently related to poor sleep. Ethnic differences suggest the need for targeted interventions among the ethnic groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beverly W.X. Wong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Yiong Huak Chan
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Biostatistics Unit, National University of Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Michael S. Kramer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, 119228, Singapore,Departments of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and of Pediatrics, McGill University Faculty of Medicine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Susan Logan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Jane A. Cauley
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh, School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, United States
| | - Eu-Leong Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, 119228, Singapore,Corresponding author. Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, National University Health System Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, 119288, Singapore.
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Wong BWX, Thu WPP, Chan YH, Kramer MS, Logan S, Cauley JA, Yong EL. The Associations between Upper and Lower Body Muscle Strength and Diabetes among Midlife Women. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13654. [PMID: 36294234 PMCID: PMC9602555 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
We hypothesized that a combined index of upper and lower body muscle strength would be more strongly associated with diabetes than either measure alone. Women recruited into the Integrated Women's Health Program had their handgrip strength (HGS) measured using a dynamometer and underwent a timed 5-repetition chair stand (RCS) test. HGS < 18 kg and RCS performance ≥ 12 s assessed upper and lower body strength, respectively, both individually and combined in a muscle strength index (MSI). Diabetes was defined as physician-diagnosed, use of anti-diabetic medication, or fasting blood glucose ≥ 7.0 mmol/L. Binary logistic regression examined the associations between muscle strength and diabetes. Of 1170 midlife women, 12.1% had diabetes. A low HGS was independently associated with diabetes (aOR: 1.59, 95% CI: 1.03, 2.44). Prolonged RCS was also associated with diabetes (aOR: 1.59, 95% CI: 1.09, 2.30), but this was not independent of visceral adiposity and muscle mass. A poor MSI had higher odds of diabetes (aOR: 2.37, 95% CI: 1.40, 4.03), independent of age, ethnicity, education level, menopausal status, smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity, height, visceral adiposity, and muscle mass. The combination of both upper and lower body muscle strength into a composite MSI was more strongly associated with diabetes than either weak HGS or prolonged RCS alone in midlife women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beverly W. X. Wong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
| | - Win Pa Pa Thu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
| | - Yiong Huak Chan
- Biostatistics Unit, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Michael S. Kramer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 2M1, Canada
| | - Susan Logan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
| | - Jane A. Cauley
- Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Eu-Leong Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
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Logan S, Thu WPP, Ho K, Cauley JA, Kramer MS, Yong EL. Sexual inactivity and sexual dysfunction in midlife Singaporean women: A prospective cross-sectional study of prevalence and risk factors. Maturitas 2021; 152:1-9. [PMID: 34674802 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2021.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine factors relating to both sexual inactivity and sexual dysfunction in midlife Singaporean women. STUDY DESIGN Sociodemographic, medical/lifestyle factors, physical activity, BMI, handgrip strength (HGS) and physical performance data collected from healthy Chinese, Indian, and Malay women, aged 45-69 years, attending gynaecology clinics. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Sexual inactivity and sexual dysfunction (defined as total score ≤ 26.55) assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). RESULTS 1048 women completed the FSFI. Mean (±SD) age was 56.2 (±6.2). Sexual inactivity was reported by 43.2% and was positively associated with older age [55-64 years (aOR 2.0, 95% CI 1.3-3.0) and ≥65 years (aOR 2.5, 95% CI 1.2-5.1)], younger menarche (aOR 1.8, 95% CI 1.3-2.5), lowest education (aOR 2.1, 95% CI 1.2-3.6), lowest income (aOR 1.8, 95% CI 1.1-2.8), unmarried (aOR 4.0, 95% CI 2.6-6.4), nulliparity (aOR 1.9, 95% CI 1.1-3.4), and BMI <18.5 kg/m2 (aOR 2.7, 95% CI 1.3-5.6). Among the sexually active, sexual dysfunction was identified in 70.3%. Sexual dysfunction was positively associated with menopause ≥10 years (aOR 2.4, 95% CI 1.1-5.0), nulliparity (aOR 3.0, 95% CI 1.1-9.8), moderate/severe vaginal dryness (aOR 13.8, 95% CI 4.8-38.7) and HGS <18 kg (aOR 1.9, 95% CI 1.1-3.2) and negatively associated with use of menopausal hormone therapy (aOR 0.3, 95% CI 0.1-0.6). CONCLUSION This, the largest Singaporean sexual function study, is the first to include physical performance in a healthy population. Most were sexually active but reported dysfunction. Novel associations included underweight BMI with sexual inactivity and weaker HGS and Malay ethnicity with greater and less sexual dysfunction, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Logan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, 119228, Singapore; NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 19228, Singapore.
| | - Win Pa Pa Thu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Kylie Ho
- NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 19228, Singapore
| | - Jane A Cauley
- University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Pittsburgh, United States
| | - Michael S Kramer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, 119228, Singapore; Departments of Epidemiology, Biostatistics & Occupational Health and of Pediatrics, McGill University Faculty of Medicine, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Eu-Leong Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, 119228, Singapore; NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 19228, Singapore.
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Thu WPP, Sundström-Poromaa I, Logan S, Kramer MS, Yong EL. Blood pressure and adiposity in midlife Singaporean women. Hypertens Res 2021; 44:561-570. [PMID: 33420474 DOI: 10.1038/s41440-020-00600-2] [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: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiac events and stroke. Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) is known to increase the risk of incident hypertension in adults. Although adiposity has been linked to markers of inflammation, few studies have examined these markers as potential mediators of the association between visceral adiposity and elevated blood pressure. We evaluated sociodemographic, reproductive, and lifestyle risk factors for elevated blood pressure among midlife Singaporean women. A total of 1189 women, with a mean age of 56.3 ± 6.2 years, from the Integrated Women's Health Program (IWHP) at National University Hospital, Singapore were studied. Hypothesized risk factors and levels of inflammatory markers were examined in relation to systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) using multivariable linear regression models. Prehypertension (SBP 120-139 mmHg and/or DBP 80-89 mmHg) and hypertension (SBP ≥140 mmHg and/or DBP ≥90 mmHg) were observed in 518 (43.6%) and 313 (26.3%) women, respectively. Compared to women in the lowest tertiles, women in the middle and upper tertiles of VAT had 7.1 (95% CI, 4.4, 9.8) mmHg and 10.2 (95% CI, 6.7, 13.7) mmHg higher adjusted SBP, respectively. Nulliparous older women with a lower education level and those with no or mild hot flashes also had a significantly higher adjusted SBP. No significant independent risk factors were observed for DBP. Adjustments for IL-6, TNF-α, and hs-CRP did not attenuate the association between VAT and SBP. In summary, we found an independent positive association between VAT and SBP. Elevated levels of inflammatory markers did not mediate the increase in SBP in women with high VAT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Win Pa Pa Thu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Inger Sundström-Poromaa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119228, Singapore.,Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, 751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Susan Logan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Michael S Kramer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119228, Singapore.,Departments of Epidemiology, Biostatistics & Occupational Health and of Pediatrics, McGill University Faculty of Medicine, Montreal, QC, H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Eu-Leong Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119228, Singapore.
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Cheong WF, Ji S, Cazenave-Gassiot A, Thu WPP, Logan S, Cauley J, Kramer MS, Yong EL. Predictors of circulating vitamin D levels in healthy mid-life Singaporean women. Arch Osteoporos 2021; 16:26. [PMID: 33559771 DOI: 10.1007/s11657-021-00880-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Vitamin D levels were lowest in Indian and Malay compared to Chinese women, and in younger and employed women. The main reason for hypovitaminosis D in study women was deficient cutaneous production. Supplementation in regions with abundant sunshine should consider ethnicity and opportunities for exposure to sunlight. INTRODUCTION Little is known about variations in circulating vitamin D levels in multiethnic mid-life women living in communities with year-round sunlight. Our study describes the circulating vitamin D levels and their sociodemographic predictors in mid-life Singaporean women. METHODS Prospective cross-sectional study of healthy Singaporean women, age 45-69 years, who were not consuming vitamin D supplements. Total 25-hydroxyvitaminD [25(OH)D], the sum of 25(OH)D2 and 25(OH)D3, was measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. RESULTS The analytic cohort of 721 women, mean age 55.2±6.0 (±SD) years, was of Chinese (82%), Indian (11%), and Malay (7%) ethnicity. Their mean 25(OH)D level was 24.8±7.8ng/mL. One-third (32.6%) of the women had deficient 25(OH)D (≤20ng/mL) and 3.5% were severely deficient (<12ng/mL). 25(OH)D3 comprised 98% of the total circulating 25(OH)D level. Adjusted mean total 25(OH)D levels were significantly lower for women of Indian and Malay (vs Chinese) ethnicity, who were premenopausal or working outside the home. Indian and Malay women had higher odds (adjusted OR 5.58 (95% CI 3.22, 9.87) and 3.83 (95% CI 1.97, 7.57), respectively) of low 25(OH)D compared to Chinese women. Obesity was not an independent predictor of low 25(OH)D, as its strong crude association was confounded by ethnicity. The adjusted odds of low 25(OH)D was reduced in women ≥65 years (adjusted OR 0.37 (95% CI 0.14, 0.87)) compared to those aged 45-55 years. CONCLUSION One-third of mid-life Singaporean women were 25(OH)D deficient, and the major independent predictors of deficiency were Indian or Malay ethnicity and younger age. Vitamin D supplementation in mid-life women should be targeted to those with documented deficiency or limited cutaneous production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Fun Cheong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 12, Singapore, 119228, Republic of Singapore
| | - Shanshan Ji
- Singapore Lipidomics Incubator, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117456, Republic of Singapore
| | - Amaury Cazenave-Gassiot
- Singapore Lipidomics Incubator, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117456, Republic of Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117596, Republic of Singapore
| | - Win Pa Pa Thu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 12, Singapore, 119228, Republic of Singapore
| | - Susan Logan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 12, Singapore, 119228, Republic of Singapore
| | - Jane Cauley
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Michael S Kramer
- Departments of Epidemiology, Biostatistics & Occupational Health and of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Eu-Leong Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, NUHS Tower Block, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 12, Singapore, 119228, Republic of Singapore.
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Wong JLJ, Thu WPP, Lim CW, Wang YL, Yong EL, Logan SJS. Health information needs of 1000 midlife Singaporean women. Climacteric 2020; 23:511-518. [DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2020.1767570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J. L. J. Wong
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - W. P. P. Thu
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - C. W. Lim
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Y. L. Wang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - E. L. Yong
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - S. J. S. Logan
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
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Sundström-Poromaa I, Thu WPP, Kramer MS, Logan S, Cauley JA, Yong EL. Risk factors for insulin resistance in midlife Singaporean women. Maturitas 2020; 137:50-56. [PMID: 32498937 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2020.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To understand the extent to which risk factors for insulin resistance are mediated by body mass index (BMI), visceral adipose tissue (VAT), physical activity and performance, and the inflammatory markers interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)- α, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). STUDY DESIGN A wide range of socio-demographic characteristics of Chinese, Malay and Indian women attending routine gynecologic care in Singapore were prospectively collected. Physical performance was objectively measured by hand grip strength and the Short Physical Performance Battery. Percent VAT was determined by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Fasting serum concentrations of glucose, insulin, IL-6, TNF- α, and hs-CRP were measured. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE was insulin resistance, expressed as the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). RESULTS 1159 women were analyzed, mean age 56.3 (range 45-69) years, comprising women of Chinese (84.0%), Indian (10.2%), and Malay (5.7%) ethnic origins. The adjusted mean differences for obesity (0.66, 95% CI 0.32-1.00), VAT area in the highest vs lowest tertile (1.03, 95% CI 0.73-1.34), low physical performance (0.63, 95% CI 0.05-1.24), and highest vs lowest tertile of TNF- α (0.35, 95% CI 0.13-0.57) were independently associated with HOMA-IR. Women of Malay and Indian ethnicity had higher crude HOMA-IR than Chinese women. However, after adjustment for obesity, VAT, physical performance, and TNF- α, no differences in mean HOMA-IR remained, when comparing Chinese women with those of Malay ethnicity (0.27, 95% CI -0.12 to 0.66) and with those of Indian ethnicity (0.30, 95% CI -0.01 to 0.66). CONCLUSIONS Insulin resistance was independently associated with obesity, high VAT, low physical performance, and high levels of TNF- α in midlife Singaporean women. These variables entirely explained the significant differences in insulin resistance between women of Chinese, Malay and Indian ethnicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inger Sundström-Poromaa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228; Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Win Pa Pa Thu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228
| | - Michael S Kramer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228; Departments of Epidemiology, Biostatistics & Occupational Health and of Pediatrics, McGill University Faculty of Medicine, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Susan Logan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228
| | - Jane A Cauley
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Eu-Leong Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228.
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Chandran M, Chin YA, Choo KS, Ang WC, Huang XF, Liu XM, Tay D, Aung TKK, Ali A, Thu WPP, Logan S, Yan SX, Lekamwasam S, Hao Y. Comparison of the Osteoporosis Self-Assessment Tool for Asians and the fracture risk assessment tool - FRAX to identify densitometric defined osteoporosis: A discriminatory value analysis in a multi-ethnic female population in Southeast Asia. Osteoporos Sarcopenia 2020; 6:53-58. [PMID: 32715094 PMCID: PMC7374549 DOI: 10.1016/j.afos.2020.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives The accuracy of FRAX® as a screening tool to identify osteoporosis and how it compares with tools such as Osteoporosis Self-Assessment Tool for Asians (OSTA), in Southeast Asian women has so far been unexplored. We aimed to determine the FRAX® thresholds that accurately identify densitometric osteoporosis and to compare its performance with that of OSTA for this purpose. Methods Singaporean postmenopausal women (n = 1056) were evaluated. FRAX® Major Osteoporotic Fracture Probability (MOFP), Hip Fracture Probability (HFP) scores, and OSTA indices were calculated. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed and via the Youden index, the optimal cut-off points of balanced sensitivity and specificity for dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)-defined osteoporosis were identified and the performance characteristics were compared. Results A FRAX® MOFP threshold of ≥3.7% had sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 0.78 (0.73–0.83), 0.63 (0.59–0.66), 0.4 (0.36–0.44), and 0.9 (0.87–0.92), respectively in identifying osteoporosis. The corresponding values for a HFP threshold of ≥0.6% were 0.85 (0.80–0.89), 0.58 (0.55–0.62), 0.39 (0.35–0.43), and 0.92 (0.9–0.94) and that for an OSTA index cut-off of ≤ −1.2 were 0.76 (0.70–0.81), 0.74 (0.71–0.77), 0.48 (0.43–0.54), and 0.91 (0.88–0.93). The area under the ROC curves were 82.8% (79.9%–85.6%), 77.6% (74.2%–81%), and 79.6% (76.5%–82.8%) for OSTA, MOFP, and HFP thresholds respectively. Conclusions FRAX® and OSTA perform comparably in identifying osteoporosis in our population. OSTA has only 2 parameters and may be simpler to use. However, FRAX® may also have a role in primary screening to identify the postmenopausal woman to be referred for DXA scanning and may help facilitate fracture risk reduction discussions with the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manju Chandran
- Osteoporosis and Bone Metabolism Unit, Department of Endocrinology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Yun Ann Chin
- Department of Endocrinology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Kuan Swen Choo
- Department of Endocrinology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Wan Chen Ang
- Department of Dermatology, Changi Genera Hospital, Singapore
| | - Xiao Feng Huang
- Osteoporosis and Bone Metabolism Unit, Department of Endocrinology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Xiao Ming Liu
- Osteoporosis and Bone Metabolism Unit, Department of Endocrinology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Donovan Tay
- Division of Medicine, Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore
| | | | - Amin Ali
- Division of Medicine, Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Win Pa Pa Thu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University Hospital, Singapore
| | - Susan Logan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University Hospital, Singapore
| | - Sean Xuexian Yan
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | | | - Ying Hao
- Health Services Research Unit (HSRU), Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
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Ng KL, Ng KWR, Thu WPP, Kramer MS, Logan S, Yong EL. Risk factors and prevalence of urinary incontinence in mid-life Singaporean women: the Integrated Women's Health Program. Int Urogynecol J 2019; 31:1829-1837. [PMID: 31781824 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-019-04132-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS The objective was to identify the prevalence and risk factors for urinary incontinence (UI) in healthy midlife Singaporean women. METHODS Healthy women, aged 45-69 years, were assessed for UI and sociodemographic characteristics, including ethnicity, menopausal status, parity, and body mass index (BMI). UI subtypes corresponding to stress (SUI) alone, urge (UUI) alone, mixed (MUI), and leakage (drops only) incontinence were classified using the Urinary Distress Inventory 6 (UDI-6). Risk factors were examined using Chi-squared tests, followed by sequential multivariate logistic regression to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aOR and 95% confidence intervals). RESULTS A total of 1,119 women (mean age 56.2 ± 5.2) completed the UDI-6. 52.3% reported any UI; MUI and SUI were the most common, each affecting 20% of women. Post-menopausal women had a lower risk (aOR 0.5 [0.3-0.9]) of SUI, but a higher risk (aOR 4.4 [1.0-19.9]) of UUI compared with premenopausal women. Higher education was negatively associated (aOR 0.3 [0.2-0.7]) with UUI, but positively associated with MUI (aOR 2.3 [1.3-4.0]). Parity (1-2 children) increased the risk of SUI (aOR 1.8 [1.0-3.1]), but reduced the risk of UUI (aOR 0.4 [0.2-0.9]). Obesity was associated with increased risk for MUI (aOR 2.2 [1.4-3.4]) and leakage (aOR 2.0 [1.0-4.1]). Malays and Indians had a higher risk of MUI, having (aOR 2.1 (1.2-3.7) and 1.7 (1.1-2.7) respectively compared with Chinese, a difference mediated by higher BMI. CONCLUSION Urinary incontinence is a major morbidity prevalent in healthy midlife Asian women. Post-menopausal status, education level, parity, BMI (and its link with ethnicity) are independent risk factors in this population, and should be incorporated into counseling and targeted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Lyn Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - K W Roy Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Win Pa Pa Thu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Michael S Kramer
- Departments of Epidemiology, Biostatistics & Occupational Health and of Pediatrics, McGill University Faculty of Medicine, Montreal, Quebec, H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Susan Logan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Eu-Leong Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119228, Singapore.
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Ganasarajah S, Sundström Poromaa I, Thu WP, Kramer MS, Logan S, Cauley JA, Yong EL. Objective measures of physical performance associated with depression and/or anxiety in midlife Singaporean women. Menopause 2019; 26:1045-1051. [PMID: 31453968 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to identify correlates of depression and anxiety in midlife Asian women, with a special focus on the potential role of objectively measured physical performance. METHODS Sociodemographic characteristics, reproductive health, menopause status, medical history, lifestyle choices, physical activity, and physical performance of healthy women aged 45 to 69 attending routine gynecologic care were collected. Depressive symptoms were assessed utilizing the Center for Epidemiologic Studies for Depression Scale (CES-D) and anxiety symptoms by the General Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7). Upper body physical performance was assessed by handgrip strength, and lower body physical performance was assessed by the Short Physical Performance Battery. Chi-square tests and multivariable models were used to assess the crude and adjusted associations, respectively, between the studied risk factors and depression and/or anxiety. The main outcome measures were elevated depressive symptoms ≥16 on the CES-D, and/or elevated anxiety symptoms >10 on the GAD-7 score. RESULTS Of 1,159 women (mean age 56.3 ± 6.2), 181 (15.9%) were identified as having depressive and/or anxiety symptoms. Weak upper body (handgrip strength) and poor lower body strength (longer duration to complete the repeated chair stand test) were associated with elevated depressive and/or anxiety symptoms (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.68; 95% CI, 1.18-2.40) and (aOR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.09-1.63), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Weak upper and lower body physical performances were associated with depressive and anxiety symptoms in midlife Singaporean women. Future trials are required to determine whether strengthening exercises that improve physical performance could help reduce depressive and anxiety symptoms in midlife women. : Video Summary: Supplemental Digital Content 1, http://links.lww.com/MENO/A419.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamini Ganasarajah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Win Pa Thu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Michael S Kramer
- Departments of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health and of Pediatrics, McGill University Faculty of Medicine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Susan Logan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jane A Cauley
- Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Eu-Leong Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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Ethnic differences in bone mineral density among midlife women in a multi-ethnic Southeast Asian cohort. Arch Osteoporos 2019; 14:80. [PMID: 31324992 DOI: 10.1007/s11657-019-0631-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Chinese Singaporean middle-aged women have significantly lower femoral neck bone mineral density and higher lumbar spine bone mineral density than Malays and Indians, after adjustment for age, body mass index, and height. PURPOSE Information regarding mediators of differences in bone mineral density (BMD) among Asian ethnicities are limited. Since the majority of hip fractures are predicted to be from Asia, differences in BMD in Asian ethnicities require further exploration. We compared BMD among the Chinese, Malay, or Indian ethnicities in Singapore, aiming to identify potential mediators for the observed differences. METHODS BMD of 1201 women aged 45-69 years was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. We examined the associations between ethnicity and BMD at both sites, before and after adjusting for potential mediators measured using standardized questionnaires and validated performance tests. RESULTS Chinese women had significantly lower femoral neck BMD than Malay and Indian women. Of the more than 20 variables examined, age, body mass index, and height accounted for almost all the observed ethnic differences in femoral neck BMD between Chinese and Malays. However, Indian women still retained 0.047 g/cm2 (95% CI, 0.024, 0.071) higher femoral neck BMD after adjustment, suggesting that additional factors may contribute to the increased BMD in Indians. Although no crude ethnic differences in lumbar spine BMD were observed, adjusted regression model unmasked ethnic differences, wherein Chinese women had 0.061(95% CI, - 0.095, 0.026) and 0.065 (95% CI, - 0.091, 0.038) g/cm2 higher lumbar spine BMD compared to Malay and Indian women, respectively. CONCLUSION BMD in middle-aged Asian women differ by ethnicity and site. Particular attention should be paid to underweight women of Chinese ethnic origin, who may be at highest risk of osteoporosis at the femoral neck and hence hip fractures.
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FRAX® based intervention thresholds for management of osteoporosis in Singaporean women. Arch Osteoporos 2018; 13:130. [PMID: 30456726 DOI: 10.1007/s11657-018-0542-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Potential FRAX®-based major osteoporotic fracture (MOF) and hip fracture (HF) intervention thresholds (ITs) for postmenopausal Singaporean women were explored. Age-dependent ethnic-specific and weighted mean ITs progressively increased with increasing age. Fixed ITs were derived via discriminatory value analysis. MOF and HF ITs with highest the Youden index were chosen as optimal. INTRODUCTION We aimed to explore FRAX®-based intervention thresholds (ITs) to potentially guide osteoporosis treatment in Singapore, a multi-ethnic nation. METHOD One thousand and one Singaporean postmenopausal community-dwelling women belonging to Chinese, Malay and Indian ethnicities underwent clinical risk factor (CRF) and BMD assessment. FRAX® major osteoporotic fracture (MOF) and hip fracture (HF) probabilities were calculated using ethnic-specific models. We employed the translational logic adopted by NOGG (UK), whereby osteoporosis treatment is recommended to any postmenopausal woman whose fracture probability based on other CRFs is similar to or exceeds that of an age-matched woman with a fracture. Using the same logic, ethnic-specific and mean weighted age-dependent ITs were computed. Employing these age-dependent ITs as a reference, the performance of fixed (age-independent) ITs were examined using ROC curves and discriminatory analysis, with the highest Youden index (YI) (sensitivity + specificity - 1) used to identify the optimal MOF and HF ITs. RESULTS The mean age was 58.9 (6.9) years. Seven hundred and eighty-nine (79%) women were Chinese, 136 (13.5%) Indian and 76 (7.5%) Malay. Age-dependent MOF ITs ranged from 3.1 to 33%, 2.5 to 17% and 2.5 to 16% whilst HF ITs ranged from 0.7 to 17%, 0.4 to 6% and 0.4 to 6.3% in Chinese, Malay and Indian women, respectively, between the ages of 50 and 90 years. The weighted age-dependent MOF and HF ITs ranged from 2.9% and 0.6%, respectively, at the age of 50, to 28% and 14% at 90 years of age. Fixed MOF/HF ITs of 5.5%/1%, 2.5%/1% and 2.5%/0.25% were identified as the most optimal by the highest YI in Chinese, Malay and Indian women, respectively. Fixed MOFP and HF ITs of 4% and 1%, respectively, were found to be most optimal on the weighted means analysis. CONCLUSION The ITs for osteoporosis treatment in Singapore show marked variations across ethnicities. Weighted mean thresholds may overcome the dilemma of intervening at different thresholds for different ethnicities. Choosing fixed ITs may have to involve trade-offs between sensitivity and specificity. FRAX®-based age-dependent or the fixed intervention thresholds suggested as an alternative to be considered for use in Singapore though further studies on the societal and health economic impacts of choosing these thresholds in Singapore are needed.
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Tng HY, Thu WPP, Logan S, Aris IM, Cauley J, Yong EL. Sleep apnea and femoral neck BMD among Singaporean mid-life women. Arch Osteoporos 2018; 13:19. [PMID: 29508086 DOI: 10.1007/s11657-018-0428-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The relationship between sleep apnea and bone health remains controversial. This study explored the relationship between sleep apnea and femoral neck BMD in midlife Asian women. Partner-witnessed apnea predicted higher femoral neck BMD, an effect validated by the STOP index. Our findings suggest that sleep apnea may protect bone health. PURPOSE The menopause transition is associated with decline in bone mineral density (BMD) and sleep quality. However, any relationship between these two factors remains controversial. This study explored the association between sleep apnea and femoral neck BMD in middle-aged women. METHODS Participants (n = 1201) aged 45-69 years attending well-women visits at the National University Hospital, Singapore were recruited. Self-reported breathing discomfort and snoring, partner-witnessed apnea and snoring were assessed from the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Femoral neck BMD was assessed with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan and classified into tertiles based on T-scores. Factors reported to affect sleep apnea and bone health in medical literature were potential covariates, p < 0.10. Multivariable ordinal regression analyses assessed associations between sleep measures and BMD. To further validate our findings, we analyzed four sleep apnea characteristics from the STOP questionnaire, a screening tool for sleep apnea. All analyses were performed using SPSS version 20.0. RESULTS Mean (SD) age of participants was 56.3 (6.2) years. Partner-witnessed apnea predicted higher BMD tertiles (OR per unit increase in severity 1.39, 95% CI [1.02, 1.89]), independent of age, ethnicity, diabetes, BMI, and handgrip strength. This was further corroborated by the STOP index (OR 1.45, 95% CI [1.07, 1.96]). CONCLUSIONS This study adds to the literature on sleep apnea and bone health in a non-Caucasian and younger population. Our findings support OSA-associated intermittent hypoxia protecting bone health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Ying Tng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University of Singapore, 1E, Road, Tower Block Level 12, Kent Ridge, 119228, Singapore
| | - Win Pa Pa Thu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University of Singapore, 1E, Road, Tower Block Level 12, Kent Ridge, 119228, Singapore
| | - Susan Logan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University of Singapore, 1E, Road, Tower Block Level 12, Kent Ridge, 119228, Singapore
| | - Izzuddin M Aris
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University of Singapore, 1E, Road, Tower Block Level 12, Kent Ridge, 119228, Singapore
| | - Jane Cauley
- Graduate School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Eu Leong Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University of Singapore, 1E, Road, Tower Block Level 12, Kent Ridge, 119228, Singapore.
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