1
|
Lazo Green K, Tan MMC, Johnson EE, Ahmed N, Eastaugh C, Beyer F, Craig D, Spiers GF, Hanratty B. Interventions for cold homes: a rapid review of the health impacts. Eur J Public Health 2024; 34:682-695. [PMID: 38587096 PMCID: PMC11293810 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckae058] [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] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cold homes are associated with an increased risk of adverse health outcomes for older people. To mitigate this risk, homes need to be heated to an appropriate temperature. This review aims to identify interventions designed to improve heating and temperatures within homes and summarize its impact on health, health service utilization and cost effectiveness. METHODS A rapid review was conducted. Studies assessing the effects of structural, financial, or behavioural interventions designed to improve home temperatures of residents aged 18+ years were eligible. Searches were carried out in four databases. A search for grey literature, and backward and forward citation searching were performed. Data were summarized in a narrative synthesis and mapped using EPPI-Reviewer and EPPI-Mapper software. RESULTS Eighteen studies reported across 19 publications were included. Structural interventions were associated with better mental health and quality of life, a reduction in health service utilization, and improvements in satisfaction with internal home temperature, social interactions and financial difficulties. The impact on physical health outcomes varied by age, gender and long-term conditions. Evidence about the impact of behavioural interventions was inconsistent. CONCLUSION Structural improvements to increase home temperatures may offer the potential to improve some aspects of health. However, the impact on physical health, including which groups are most likely to benefit, is unclear. Key gaps include the lack of evidence about the impact of financial interventions, and the impact of all types of interventions, on quality of life, mortality and costs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Lazo Green
- Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit, National Institute for Health and Care Research, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Healthy Ageing Research Group, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, UK
| | - Michelle M C Tan
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Eugenie Evelynne Johnson
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Evidence Synthesis Group/Innovation Observatory, Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Nisar Ahmed
- Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit, National Institute for Health and Care Research, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Healthy Ageing Research Group, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, UK
| | - Claire Eastaugh
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Evidence Synthesis Group/Innovation Observatory, Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Fiona Beyer
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Evidence Synthesis Group/Innovation Observatory, Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Dawn Craig
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Evidence Synthesis Group/Innovation Observatory, Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Gemma F Spiers
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Evidence Synthesis Group/Innovation Observatory, Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Barbara Hanratty
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Suulamo U, Remes H, Tarkiainen L, Murphy M, Martikainen P. Excess winter mortality in Finland, 1971-2019: a register-based study on long-term trends and effect modification by sociodemographic characteristics and pre-existing health conditions. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e079471. [PMID: 38309756 PMCID: PMC10840061 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-079471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Excess winter mortality is a well-established phenomenon across the developed world. However, whether individual-level factors increase vulnerability to the effects of winter remains inadequately examined. Our aim was to assess long-term trends in excess winter mortality in Finland and estimate the modifying effect of sociodemographic and health characteristics on the risk of winter death. DESIGN Nationwide register study. SETTING Finland. PARTICIPANTS Population aged 60 years and over, resident in Finland, 1971-2019. OUTCOME MEASURES Age-adjusted winter and non-winter death rates, and winter-to-non-winter rate ratios and relative risks (multiplicative interaction effects between winter and modifying characteristics). RESULTS We found a decreasing trend in the relative winter excess mortality over five decades and a drop in the series around 2000. During 2000-2019, winter mortality rates for men and women were 11% and 14% higher than expected based on non-winter rates. The relative risk of winter death increased with age but did not vary by income. Compared with those living with at least one other person, individuals in institutions had a higher relative risk (1.07, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.08). Most pre-existing health conditions did not predict winter death, but persons with dementia emerged at greater relative risk (1.06, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.07). CONCLUSIONS Although winter mortality seems to affect frail people more strongly-those of advanced age, living in institutions and with dementia-there is an increased risk even beyond the more vulnerable groups. Protection of high-risk groups should be complemented with population-level preventive measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ulla Suulamo
- Helsinki Institute for Demography and Population Health, University of Helsinki Faculty of Social Sciences, Helsinki, Finland
- Max Planck - University of Helsinki Center for Social Inequalities in Population Health, Helsinki, Finland
- International Max Planck Research School for Population, Health and Data Science, Rostock, Germany
| | - Hanna Remes
- Helsinki Institute for Demography and Population Health, University of Helsinki Faculty of Social Sciences, Helsinki, Finland
- Max Planck - University of Helsinki Center for Social Inequalities in Population Health, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Lasse Tarkiainen
- Helsinki Institute for Demography and Population Health, University of Helsinki Faculty of Social Sciences, Helsinki, Finland
- Max Planck - University of Helsinki Center for Social Inequalities in Population Health, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Michael Murphy
- The London School of Economics and Political Science Department of Social Policy, London, UK
| | - Pekka Martikainen
- Helsinki Institute for Demography and Population Health, University of Helsinki Faculty of Social Sciences, Helsinki, Finland
- Max Planck - University of Helsinki Center for Social Inequalities in Population Health, Helsinki, Finland
- Max-Planck-Institute for Demographic Research, Rostock, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Huang D, Taha MS, Nocera AL, Workman AD, Amiji MM, Bleier BS. Cold exposure impairs extracellular vesicle swarm-mediated nasal antiviral immunity. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2023; 151:509-525.e8. [PMID: 36494212 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2022.09.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human upper respiratory tract is the first site of contact for inhaled respiratory viruses and elaborates an array of innate immune responses. Seasonal variation in respiratory viral infections and the importance of ambient temperature in modulating immune responses to infections have been well recognized; however, the underlying biological mechanisms remain understudied. OBJECTIVE We investigated the role of nasal epithelium-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) in innate Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3)-dependent antiviral immunity. METHODS We evaluated the secretion and composition of nasal epithelial EVs after TLR3 stimulation in human autologous cells and fresh human nasal mucosal surgical specimens. We also explored the antiviral activity and mechanisms of TLR3-stimulated EVs against respiratory viruses as well as the effect of cool ambient temperature on TLR3-dependent antiviral immunity. RESULTS We found that polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid, aka poly(I:C), exposure induced a swarm-like increase in the secretion of nasal epithelial EVs via the TLR3 signaling. EVs participated in TLR3-dependent antiviral immunity, protecting the host from viral infections through both EV-mediated functional delivery of miR-17 and direct virion neutralization after binding to virus ligands via surface receptors, including LDLR and ICAM-1. These potent antiviral immune defense functions mediated by TLR3-stimulated EVs were impaired by cold exposure via a decrease in total EV secretion as well as diminished microRNA packaging and antiviral binding affinity of individual EV. CONCLUSION TLR3-dependent nasal epithelial EVs exhibit multiple innate antiviral mechanisms to suppress respiratory viral infections. Furthermore, our study provides a direct quantitative mechanistic explanation for seasonal variation in upper respiratory tract infection prevalence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Di Huang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Northeastern University, Boston, Boston, Mass
| | - Maie S Taha
- Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Northeastern University, Boston, Boston, Mass; Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Angela L Nocera
- Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Northeastern University, Boston, Boston, Mass
| | - Alan D Workman
- Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Mansoor M Amiji
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Northeastern University, Boston, Boston, Mass.
| | - Benjamin S Bleier
- Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Madaniyazi L, Armstrong B, Chung Y, Ng CFS, Seposo X, Kim Y, Tobias A, Guo Y, Sera F, Honda Y, Gasparrini A, Hashizume M. Seasonal variation in mortality and the role of temperature: a multi-country multi-city study. Int J Epidemiol 2022; 51:122-133. [PMID: 34468728 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyab143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although seasonal variations in mortality have been recognized for millennia, the role of temperature remains unclear. We aimed to assess seasonal variation in mortality and to examine the contribution of temperature. METHODS We compiled daily data on all-cause, cardiovascular and respiratory mortality, temperature and indicators on location-specific characteristics from 719 locations in tropical, dry, temperate and continental climate zones. We fitted time-series regression models to estimate the amplitude of seasonal variation in mortality on a daily basis, defined as the peak-to-trough ratio (PTR) of maximum mortality estimates to minimum mortality estimates at day of year. Meta-analysis was used to summarize location-specific estimates for each climate zone. We estimated the PTR with and without temperature adjustment, with the differences representing the seasonal effect attributable to temperature. We also evaluated the effect of location-specific characteristics on the PTR across locations by using meta-regression models. RESULTS Seasonality estimates and responses to temperature adjustment varied across locations. The unadjusted PTR for all-cause mortality was 1.05 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.00-1.11] in the tropical zone and 1.23 (95% CI: 1.20-1.25) in the temperate zone; adjusting for temperature reduced the estimates to 1.02 (95% CI: 0.95-1.09) and 1.10 (95% CI: 1.07-1.12), respectively. Furthermore, the unadjusted PTR was positively associated with average mean temperature. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that seasonality of mortality is importantly driven by temperature, most evidently in temperate/continental climate zones, and that warmer locations show stronger seasonal variations in mortality, which is related to a stronger effect of temperature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lina Madaniyazi
- Department of Paediatric Infectious Disease, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Ben Armstrong
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Yeonseung Chung
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Chris Fook Sheng Ng
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Xerxes Seposo
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Yoonhee Kim
- Department of Global Environmental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Aurelio Tobias
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), Spanish Council for Scientific Research (CSIS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Yuming Guo
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Climate, Air Quality Research Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Francesco Sera
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Department of Statistics, Computer Science and Applications 'G. Parenti', University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Yasushi Honda
- Center for Climate Change Adaptation, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba, Japan
- Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Antonio Gasparrini
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Centre for Statistical Methodology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Centre on Climate Change & Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Masahiro Hashizume
- Department of Paediatric Infectious Disease, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Global Health Policy, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Turcu C, Crane M, Hutchinson E, Lloyd S, Belesova K, Wilkinson P, Davies M. A multi-scalar perspective on health and urban housing: an umbrella review. BUILDINGS & CITIES 2021; 2:734-758. [PMID: 34738085 PMCID: PMC7611930 DOI: 10.5334/bc.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
With more than half the world's population living in cities, understanding how the built environment impacts human health at different urban scales is crucial. To be able to shape cities for health, an understanding is needed of planetary health impacts, which encompass the human health impacts of human-caused disruptions on the Earth's natural ecosystems. This umbrella review maps health evidence across the spatial scales of the built environment (building; neighbourhood; and wider system, including city, regional and planetary levels), with a specific focus on urban housing. Systematic reviews published in English between January 2011 and December 2020 were searched across 20 databases, with 1176 articles identified and 124 articles screened for inclusion. Findings suggests that most evidence reports on health determinants at the neighbourhood level, such as greenspace, physical and socio-economic conditions, transport infrastructure and access to local services. Physical health outcomes are also primarily reported, with an emerging interest in mental health outcomes. There is little evidence on planetary health outcomes and significant gaps in the research literature are identified. Based on these findings, three potential directions are identified for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catalina Turcu
- The Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment, University College London, London, UK
| | - Melanie Crane
- The Charles Perkins Centre, Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Emma Hutchinson
- Public Health, Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK
| | - Simon Lloyd
- Climate and Health Programme (CLIMA), Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Kristine Belesova
- Public Health, Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, UK
| | - Paul Wilkinson
- Public Health, Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, UK
| | - Mike Davies
- UCL Institute for Environmental Design and Engineering, Faculty of the Built Environment, University College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Madaniyazi L, Ng CFS, Seposo X, Toizumi M, Yoshida LM, Honda Y, Armstrong B, Hashizume M. Role of temperature, influenza and other local characteristics in seasonality of mortality: a population-based time-series study in Japan. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e044876. [PMID: 34233967 PMCID: PMC8264909 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-044876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the extent to which temperature and influenza explained seasonality of mortality in Japan and to examine the association of the seasonality with prefecture-specific characteristics. DESIGN We conducted time-series analysis to estimate the seasonal amplitude before and after adjusting for temperature and/or influenza-like illness (ILI). Next, we applied linear mixed effect models to investigate the association of seasonal amplitudes with each indicator on prefecture-specific characteristics on climate, demographic and socioeconomic factors and adaptations. SETTING 47 prefectures in Japan PARTICIPANTS: Deaths for all-cause, circulatory, and respiratory disease between 1999 and 2015. OUTCOME MEASURES Peak-to-trough ratio (PTR, a measure of seasonal amplitude). RESULTS The nationwide unadjusted-PTRs for all-cause, circulatory and respiratory mortality were 1.29 (95% CIs: 1.28 to 1.31), 1.55 (95% CI: 1.52 to 1.57) and 1.45 (95% CI: 1.43 to 1.48), respectively. These PTRs reduced substantially after adjusting for temperature but very little after a separate adjustment for ILI. Furthermore, seasonal amplitudes varied between prefectures. However, there was no strong evidence for the associations of PTR with the indicators on prefecture-specific characteristics. CONCLUSIONS Seasonality of mortality is primarily driven by temperature in Japan. The spatial variation in seasonal amplitudes was not associated with prefecture-specific characteristics. Although further investigations are required to confirm our findings, this study can help us gain a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying seasonality of mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lina Madaniyazi
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Chris Fook Sheng Ng
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Xerxes Seposo
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Michiko Toizumi
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Lay-Myint Yoshida
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Yasushi Honda
- Center for Climate Change Adaptation, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba, Japan
- Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Ben Armstrong
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Masahiro Hashizume
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Global Health Policy, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Bezgrebelna M, McKenzie K, Wells S, Ravindran A, Kral M, Christensen J, Stergiopoulos V, Gaetz S, Kidd SA. Climate Change, Weather, Housing Precarity, and Homelessness: A Systematic Review of Reviews. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:5812. [PMID: 34071641 PMCID: PMC8199223 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This systematic review of reviews was conducted to examine housing precarity and homelessness in relation to climate change and weather extremes internationally. In a thematic analysis of 15 reviews (5 systematic and 10 non-systematic), the following themes emerged: risk factors for homelessness/housing precarity, temperature extremes, health concerns, structural factors, natural disasters, and housing. First, an increased risk of homelessness has been found for people who are vulnerably housed and populations in lower socio-economic positions due to energy insecurity and climate change-induced natural hazards. Second, homeless/vulnerably-housed populations are disproportionately exposed to climatic events (temperature extremes and natural disasters). Third, the physical and mental health of homeless/vulnerably-housed populations is projected to be impacted by weather extremes and climate change. Fourth, while green infrastructure may have positive effects for homeless/vulnerably-housed populations, housing remains a major concern in urban environments. Finally, structural changes must be implemented. Recommendations for addressing the impact of climate change on homelessness and housing precarity were generated, including interventions focusing on homelessness/housing precarity and reducing the effects of weather extremes, improved housing and urban planning, and further research on homelessness/housing precarity and climate change. To further enhance the impact of these initiatives, we suggest employing the Human Rights-Based Approach (HRBA).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kwame McKenzie
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1R8, Canada; (K.M.); (S.W.); (A.R.); (V.S.)
| | - Samantha Wells
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1R8, Canada; (K.M.); (S.W.); (A.R.); (V.S.)
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Toronto, ON M5T 1R8, Canada
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Toronto, ON M5T 1R8, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
| | - Arun Ravindran
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1R8, Canada; (K.M.); (S.W.); (A.R.); (V.S.)
| | - Michael Kral
- Department of Social Work, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA;
| | - Julia Christensen
- Department of Geography, Memorial University Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL A1C 5S7, Canada;
| | - Vicky Stergiopoulos
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1R8, Canada; (K.M.); (S.W.); (A.R.); (V.S.)
| | - Stephen Gaetz
- Faculty of Education, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada;
| | - Sean A. Kidd
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1R8, Canada; (K.M.); (S.W.); (A.R.); (V.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Roshan Fekr A, Li Y, Gauvin C, Wong G, Cheng W, Fernie G, Dutta T. Evaluation of Winter Footwear: Comparison of Test Methods to Determine Footwear Slip Resistance on Ice Surfaces. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:E405. [PMID: 33419196 PMCID: PMC7825554 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18020405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The use of slip-resistant winter footwear is crucial for the prevention of slips and falls on ice and snow. The main objective of this paper is to evaluate a mechanical testing method to determine footwear slip resistance on wet and dry ice surfaces and to compare it with the human-centred test method introduced by researchers at KITE (Knowledge, Innovation, Talent, Everywhere)-Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network. Phase 1 of this study assessed the repeatability and reproducibility of the mechanical method by evaluating ten different occupational winter boots using two SATRA Slip resistance testers (STM 603, SATRA Technology Centre, Kettering, UK). One tester is located in Toronto and one in Montreal. These boots were chosen based on the needs of the IRSST (Institut de Recherche Robert-Sauvé en Santé et en Sécurité du Travail, Montréal, Quebec, Canada), who were primarily interested in providing safe winter footwear for police, firefighters and municipal workers. In Phase 2, the results of the human-centred test approach were compared with the mechanical results. In Phase 3, two of these boots with conflicting results from the previous phases were tested using a second human-centred method. In Phase 1, the mechanical testing results obtained in the two labs showed a high linear correlation (>0.94) and good agreement on both ice surfaces; however, they revealed a bias (~0.06) between the two labs on the dry ice condition. The mechanical and human-centred tests (phase 2) were found to be better correlated in the wet ice condition (R = 0.95) compared to the dry ice condition (R = 0.34). Finally, the rating of the footwear slip resistance based on the number of slips counted in phase 3 was consistent with the rating by the human-centred test method (phase 2), but not the mechanical method (phase 1). The findings of this study provide a better understanding of the limitations of the SATRA ice tray for measuring footwear slip resistance and demonstrate that the mechanical method must be further refined to make it more comparable to the human-centred methods to achieve better agreement with real-world performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Atena Roshan Fekr
- The Kite Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute—University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2A2, Canada; (Y.L.); (G.W.); (W.C.); (G.F.); (T.D.)
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
| | - Yue Li
- The Kite Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute—University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2A2, Canada; (Y.L.); (G.W.); (W.C.); (G.F.); (T.D.)
| | - Chantal Gauvin
- Mechanical and Physical Risk Prevention Team, IRSST—Institut de Recherche Robert-Sauvé en Santé et en Sécurité du Travail, Montréal, QC H3A 3C2, Canada;
| | - Gordon Wong
- The Kite Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute—University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2A2, Canada; (Y.L.); (G.W.); (W.C.); (G.F.); (T.D.)
| | - Wayne Cheng
- The Kite Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute—University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2A2, Canada; (Y.L.); (G.W.); (W.C.); (G.F.); (T.D.)
| | - Geoff Fernie
- The Kite Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute—University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2A2, Canada; (Y.L.); (G.W.); (W.C.); (G.F.); (T.D.)
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
| | - Tilak Dutta
- The Kite Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute—University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2A2, Canada; (Y.L.); (G.W.); (W.C.); (G.F.); (T.D.)
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lam HCY, Huang Z, Liu S, Guo C, Goggins WB, Chan EYY. Personal Cold Protection Behaviour and Its Associated Factors in 2016/17 Cold Days in Hong Kong: A Two-Year Cohort Telephone Survey Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17051672. [PMID: 32143415 PMCID: PMC7084253 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17051672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background: Despite larger health burdens attributed to cold than heat, few studies have examined personal cold protection behaviours (PCPB). This study examined PCPB during cold waves and identified the associated factors in a subtropical city for those without central heating system. Methods: A cohort telephone survey was conducted in Hong Kong during a colder cold wave (2016) and a warmer cold wave (2017) among adults (≥15). Socio-demographic information, risk perception, self-reported adverse health effects and patterns of PCPB during cold waves were collected. Associated factors of PCPB in 2017 were identified using multiple logistic regression. Results: The cohort included 429 subjects. PCPB uptake rates were higher during the colder cold wave (p < 0.0005) except for ensuring indoor ventilation. Of the vulnerable groups, 63.7% had low self-perceived health risks. High risk perception, experience of adverse health effects during the 2016 cold wave, females and older groups were positive associated factors of PCPB in 2017 (p < 0.05). Conclusions: PCPB changed with self-risk perception. However vulnerable groups commonly underestimated their own risk. Indoor ventilation may be a concern during cold days in settings that are less prepared for cold weather. Targeted awareness-raising promotion for vulnerable groups and practical strategies for ensuring indoor ventilation are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Holly Ching Yu Lam
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Emmanuel Kaye Building, London SW3 6LR, UK;
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response (CCOUC), Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China; (Z.H.); (S.L.); (C.G.)
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong, China;
| | - Zhe Huang
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response (CCOUC), Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China; (Z.H.); (S.L.); (C.G.)
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong, China;
| | - Sida Liu
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response (CCOUC), Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China; (Z.H.); (S.L.); (C.G.)
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong, China;
| | - Chunlan Guo
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response (CCOUC), Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China; (Z.H.); (S.L.); (C.G.)
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong, China;
| | - William Bernard Goggins
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong, China;
| | - Emily Ying Yang Chan
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response (CCOUC), Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China; (Z.H.); (S.L.); (C.G.)
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong, China;
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LF, UK
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +852-2252-8411
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Pollard A, Jones T, Sherratt S, Sharpe RA. Use of Simple Telemetry to Reduce the Health Impacts of Fuel Poverty and Living in Cold Homes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E2853. [PMID: 31405064 PMCID: PMC6720612 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16162853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In Great Britain, roughly half of people with at least one long-standing illness (LSI) live in low-income households. Lower-income households are at risk of fuel poverty and living in a colder house, which can worsen certain health conditions, causing related morbidity and mortality. This pilot study aimed to assess whether raising occupants' awareness of indoor temperatures in the home could initiate improved health and well-being among such vulnerable residents. METHODS Thermometers were placed inside a manufactured bamboo brooch to be worn or placed within homes during the winter of 2016/17. These devices were supplied to households (n = 34) already assisted by Community Energy Plus, which is a private social enterprise in Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK), using initiatives aimed at maintaining "healthy homes". Questionnaires were supplied to households before devices were supplied, and then again at the end of a three-month period, with further questions asked when devices were collected. Temperatures were recorded automatically every half-hour and used to draw inference from questionnaire responses, particularly around health and well-being. RESULTS Questionnaires were completed by 22 households. Throughout the winter, those declaring the poorest health when supplied with devices maintained homes at a higher average temperature. There were also indications that those with raised awareness of interior temperatures sought fewer casual medicines. CONCLUSION Simple telemetry could play a role in the management of chronic health conditions in winter, helping healthcare systems become more sustainable. The need for higher indoor temperatures among people with an LSI highlights the need to consider this approach alongside more sustainable household energy-efficiency improvements. A larger study is needed to explore this further and quantify the cost benefit of this approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam Pollard
- Numeration Systems, Ltd., Health and Well-Being Innovation Centre, Truro TR1 3FF, UK
| | - Tim Jones
- Community Energy Plus, Truro TR1 2SJ, UK
| | - Stephen Sherratt
- Numeration Systems, Ltd., Health and Well-Being Innovation Centre, Truro TR1 3FF, UK
| | - Richard A Sharpe
- Health and Well-being and Public Health, Cornwall Council, Truro TR1 3AY, UK.
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro TR1 3HD, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Forcey DS, FitzGerald MP, Burggraf MK, Nagalingam V, Ananda-Rajah MR. 'Cold and lonely': emergency presentations of patients with hypothermia to a large Australian health network. Intern Med J 2019; 50:54-60. [PMID: 30963670 DOI: 10.1111/imj.14308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Revised: 03/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extreme heat is a public health priority in Australia with the health effects of cold poorly studied. A record-breaking cold winter prompted an institutional investigation into the epidemiology and outcomes of hypothermic presentations. AIMS To describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of hypothermic emergency presentations including patient outcomes as well as gaps in practice. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort observational study of hypothermic emergency presentations between 7 July 2009 and 1 September 2016 with a temperature of ≤35°C. Independent predictors for inpatient mortality and characteristics of exposure versus non-exposure presentations were evaluated. RESULTS There were 217 patients with 226 presentations comprising male gender in 54%, median age 76.5 years (interquartile range (IQR) 53-88) and median initial temperature 33.3°C (IQR 31.2-34.3°C). Non-exposure presentations being found indoors, accounted for 78% overall, with elderly persons ≥65 years (P = 0.002) and multimorbidity (Charlson comorbidity index ≥4, P = 0.013) overrepresented in this subgroup. Among the non-exposure cohort, 55% were pensioners and 42% lived alone. Inpatient mortality was 11% overall and significantly higher in non-exposure versus exposure cohorts (16 vs 2%, P = 0.01). Independent predictors of inpatient mortality included heart failure (P = 0.04), metastatic malignancy (P < 0.01), chronic kidney disease (P < 0.05) and sepsis (P < 0.01). In contrast, exposure-related presentations were characterised by younger patients with intoxication due to alcohol and/or illicit drugs and psychiatric comorbidity. CONCLUSIONS Hypothermia is a marker of clinical and socioeconomic vulnerability. The dominant presentation of the elderly patient with multimorbidity, and few social supports being found indoors, raises broader questions around the social determinants of health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dana S Forcey
- General Medical Unit, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Millicent K Burggraf
- General Medical Unit, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Central and Eastern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vathy Nagalingam
- General Medical Unit, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michelle R Ananda-Rajah
- General Medical Unit, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Central and Eastern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sharpe RA, Taylor T, Fleming LE, Morrissey K, Morris G, Wigglesworth R. Making the Case for "Whole System" Approaches: Integrating Public Health and Housing. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:E2345. [PMID: 30355973 PMCID: PMC6267345 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15112345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Revised: 10/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Housing conditions have been an enduring focus for public health activity throughout the modern public health era. However, the nature of the housing and health challenge has changed in response to an evolution in the understanding of the diverse factors influencing public health. Today, the traditional public health emphasis on the type and quality of housing merges with other wider determinants of health. These include the neighbourhood, community, and "place" where a house is located, but also the policies which make access to a healthy house possible and affordable for everyone. Encouragingly, these approaches to policy and action on housing have the potential to contribute to the "triple win" of health and well-being, equity, and environmental sustainability. However, more effective housing policies (and in public health in general) that adopt more systemic approaches to addressing the complex interactions between health, housing, and wider environment are needed. This paper illustrates some of the key components of the housing and health challenge in developed countries, and presents a conceptual model to co-ordinate activities that can deliver the "triple win." This is achieved by offering a perspective on how to navigate more effectively, inclusively and across sectors when identifying sustainable housing interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Sharpe
- Public Health, Cornwall Council, Truro TR1 3AY, UK.
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Truro TR1 3HD, UK.
| | - Tim Taylor
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Truro TR1 3HD, UK.
| | - Lora E Fleming
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Truro TR1 3HD, UK.
| | - Karyn Morrissey
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Truro TR1 3HD, UK.
| | - George Morris
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Truro TR1 3HD, UK.
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kamalova FM, Nigmatullina NA. MONTHLY ALL-CAUSE AND CARDIOVASCULAR MORTALITY AS AN INDICATOR OF THE PROCESS OF HEALTHCARE IN RURAL SETTLEMENTS IN VARIOUS DISTRICTS OF TATARSTAN REPUBLIC. КАРДИОВАСКУЛЯРНАЯ ТЕРАПИЯ И ПРОФИЛАКТИКА 2018. [DOI: 10.15829/1728-8800-2018-3-46-52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim. To reveal the specifics of monthly dynamics of the all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, depending on gender and on the administrative district settlement (ADS).Material and methods. The lethal cases assessed, by the state registries, in three ADS, different by social and economical levels, abilities of medical institutions and life style of the rural inhabitants in the years 2000-2002 and 2009-2011. The methods that were applied: statistical, sociological, analytic, comparative.Results. Within a 10-year period, mean annual mortality from all causes in ADS1 decreased 21,0%, in ADS2 increased 0,2%, in ADS3 increased 5,4%. It is important to note the statistical significance (p<0,05) of the differences in mean annual mortality from all causes in men and women in ADS2 during the first, and in ADS3 during both periods of the study. With the similarity of monthly all-cause mortality in rural settlements, there is differentiation by sex and ADS. Excessive mortality increased the mortality to 4,0 promille. Economical disadvantage from premature mortality was minimal in ADS1 at the background of comparably maximal mean person gross territory product and most healthy rural inhabitants.Conclusion. Significant differences in mortality of rural inhabitants are proved by gender and administrative district type of settlements; economical disadvantages are associated with social and economic level of the territory development, life style of the rural inhabitants, and in dynamics there is similarity and difference in monthly parameters of rural inhabitants mortality makes it plausible to regard them as in indicator of the healthcare processes in rural settlements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F. M. Kamalova
- Kazan State Medical University of the Ministry of Health
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
Cold-related mortality and morbidity remains an important public health problem in the UK and elsewhere. Health burdens have often reported to be higher in the UK compared to other countries with colder climates, however such assessments are usually based on comparison of excess winter mortality indices, which are subject to biases. Daily time-series regression or case-crossover studies provide the best evidence of the acute effects of cold exposure. Such studies report a 6% increase in all-cause deaths in England & Wales for every 1 °C fall in daily mean temperature within the top 5% of the coldest days. In major Scottish cities, a 1 °C reduction in mean temperature below 11 °C was associated with an increase in mortality of 2.9%, 3.4%, 4.8% and 1.7% from all-causes, cardiovascular, respiratory, and non-cardio-respiratory causes respectively. In Northern Ireland, a 1 °C fall during winter months led to increases of 4.5%, 3.9% and 11.2% for all-cause, cardiovascular and respiratory deaths respectively among adults. Raised risks are also observed with morbidity outcomes. Hip fractures among the elderly are only weakly associated with snow and ice conditions in the UK, with the majority of cases occurring indoors. A person's susceptibility to cold weather is affected by both individual- and contextual-level risk factors. Variations in the distributions of health, demographic, socio-economic and built-environment characteristics are likely to explain most differences in cold risk observed between UK regions. Although cold-related health impacts reduced throughout much of the previous century in UK populations, there is little evidence on the contribution that milder winters due to climate change may have made to reductions in more recent decades. Intervention measures designed to minimise cold exposure and reduce fuel poverty will likely play a key role in determining current and future health burdens associated with cold weather.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shakoor Hajat
- Department of Social & Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Stacey D, Pritchard C. An ecological study of excess winter mortality in England and deprivation. Public Health 2016; 141:207-209. [PMID: 27932002 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2016.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Revised: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/18/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- D Stacey
- Lincolnshire County Council, County Offices, Newland, Lincoln, LN1 1YL, UK.
| | - C Pritchard
- Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Nottingham, Clinical Sciences Building, City Hospital, Hucknall Road, Nottingham, NG5 1PB, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ikäheimo TM, Jaakkola K, Jokelainen J, Saukkoriipi A, Roivainen M, Juvonen R, Vainio O, Jaakkola JJK. A Decrease in Temperature and Humidity Precedes Human Rhinovirus Infections in a Cold Climate. Viruses 2016; 8:v8090244. [PMID: 27598190 PMCID: PMC5035958 DOI: 10.3390/v8090244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Revised: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Both temperature and humidity may independently or jointly contribute to the risk of human rhinovirus (HRV) infections, either through altered survival and spread of viruses in the environment or due to changes in host susceptibility. This study examined the relationship between short-term variations in temperature and humidity and the risk of HRV infections in a subarctic climate. We conducted a case-crossover study among conscripts (n = 892) seeking medical attention due to respiratory symptoms during their military training and identified 147 HRV cases by real-time PCR. An average temperature, a decline in daily ambient temperature and absolute humidity (AH) during the three preceding days of the onset (hazard period) and two reference periods (a week prior and after the onset) were obtained. The average daily temperature preceding HRV infections was −9.9 ± 4.9 °C and the average AH was 2.2 ± 0.9 g/m3. An average (odds ratios (OR) 1.07 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.00–1.15)) and maximal (OR 1.08 (1.01–1.17)) change in temperature increased the risk of HRV infections by 8% per 1 °C decrease. An average (OR 1.20 (CI 1.03–1.40)) and maximal decrease (OR 1.13 (CI 0.96–1.34)) in AH increased the risk of HRV infection by 13% and 20% per 0.5 g/m3 decrease. A higher average temperature during the three preceding days was positively associated with HRV infections (OR 1.07 (CI 1.00–1.15)). A decrease rather than low temperature and humidity per se during the preceding few days increases the risk of HRV infections in a cold climate. The information is applicable to populations residing in cold climates for appropriate personal protection and prevention of adverse health effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiina M Ikäheimo
- Center for Environmental and Respiratory Health Research, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, FI-90014 Oulu, Finland.
- Medical Research Center, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, FI-90014 Oulu, Finland.
| | - Kari Jaakkola
- Center for Environmental and Respiratory Health Research, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, FI-90014 Oulu, Finland.
- Centre for Military Medicine, the Finnish Defence Forces, P.O. Box 5, FI-11311 Riihimäki, Finland.
| | - Jari Jokelainen
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, FI-90014 Oulu, Finland.
- Unit of General Practice, Oulu University Hospital, FI-90220 Oulu, Finland.
| | - Annika Saukkoriipi
- Impact Assessment Unit, Department of Health Protection, National Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 310, FI-90101 Oulu, Finland.
| | - Merja Roivainen
- Viral Infections Unit, Department of Infectious Disease, National Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, FI-00271 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Raija Juvonen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Kainuu Central Hospital, Sotkamontie 13, FI-87140 Kajaani, Finland.
| | - Olli Vainio
- Medical Research Center, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, FI-90014 Oulu, Finland.
- Northern Finland Laboratory Centre (NordLab), FI-90220 Oulu, Finland.
- Research Unit of Biomedicine, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, P.O. Box 5000, FI-90014 Oulu, Finland.
| | - Jouni J K Jaakkola
- Center for Environmental and Respiratory Health Research, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, FI-90014 Oulu, Finland.
- Medical Research Center, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, FI-90014 Oulu, Finland.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Gonseth S, Nusslé S, Bovet P, Panese F, Wiemels JL. Excess winter deaths caused by cardiovascular diseases are associated with both mild winter temperature and socio-economic inequalities in the U.S. Int J Cardiol 2015; 187:642-4. [PMID: 25863741 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2015.03.412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 03/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Semira Gonseth
- University of California, San Francisco, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.
| | - Sébastien Nusslé
- University of California, Berkeley, Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Pascal Bovet
- University of Lausanne, Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, 1010 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Francesco Panese
- University of Lausanne, Institute of History of Medicine and Public Health, 1007 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Joseph L Wiemels
- University of California, San Francisco, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Wang S, Kou C, Liu Y, Li B, Tao Y, D'Arcy C, Shi J, Wu Y, Liu J, Zhu Y, Yu Y. Rural-urban differences in the prevalence of chronic disease in northeast China. Asia Pac J Public Health 2014; 27:394-406. [PMID: 25246500 DOI: 10.1177/1010539514551200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Rural-urban differences in the prevalence of chronic diseases in the adult population of northeast China are examined. The Jilin Provincial Chronic Disease Survey used personal interviews and physical measures to research the presence of a range of chronic diseases among a large sample of rural and urban provincial residents aged 18 to 79 years (N = 21 435). Logistic regression analyses were used. After adjusting for age and gender, rural residents had higher prevalence of hypertension, chronic ischemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, chronic low back pain, arthritis, chronic gastroenteritis/peptic ulcer, chronic cholecystitis/gallstones, and chronic lower respiratory disease. Low education, low income, and smoking increased the risk of chronic diseases in rural areas. Reducing rural-urban differences in chronic disease presents a formidable public health challenge for China. The solution requires focusing attention on issues endemic to rural areas such as poverty, lack of chronic disease knowledge, and the inequality in access to primary care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Bo Li
- Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | | | - Carl D'Arcy
- University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | | | | | - Jianwei Liu
- Jilin Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Changchun, China
| | - Yingli Zhu
- Jilin Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Changchun, China
| | - Yaqin Yu
- Jilin University, Changchun, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Wang C, Song X, Mitnitski A, Fang X, Tang Z, Yu P, Rockwood K. Effect of Health Protective Factors on Health Deficit Accumulation and Mortality Risk in Older Adults in the Beijing Longitudinal Study of Aging. J Am Geriatr Soc 2014; 62:821-8. [PMID: 24749784 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.12792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chunxiu Wang
- Department of Evidence‐based Medicine Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University Beijing China
| | - Xiaowei Song
- Department of Medicine Dalhousie University Halifax Nova Scotia Canada
- National Research Council Institute for Biodiagnostics‐AtlanticHalifax Nova Scotia Canada
| | - Arnold Mitnitski
- Department of Medicine Dalhousie University Halifax Nova Scotia Canada
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics Dalhousie University Halifax Nova Scotia Canada
| | - Xianghua Fang
- Department of Evidence‐based Medicine Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University Beijing China
| | - Zhe Tang
- Department of Evidence‐based Medicine Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University Beijing China
| | - Pulin Yu
- Geriatrics Beijing Hospital Ministry of Health Beijing China
| | - Kenneth Rockwood
- Department of Medicine Dalhousie University Halifax Nova Scotia Canada
- Central for Health Care of the Elderly QE Health Sciences Centre Capital District Health Authority Halifax Nova Scotia Canada
| |
Collapse
|