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Pannoi T, Sottiyotin T, Waleewong O, Adulyarat N. Perceived social measures and drinking behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic in Thailand. J Public Health Policy 2024:10.1057/s41271-024-00521-1. [PMID: 39294344 DOI: 10.1057/s41271-024-00521-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/20/2024]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, national policymakers implemented many public health social measures to cease the spread of the disease, while, those interventions also affected population health behaviors, including drinking alcohol. We analyzed national survey data of 7731 respondents to investigate drinking behavioral patterns, as well as measure the strength of association between social measures and alcohol consumption among the Thai populations during the COVID-19 pandemic. We demonstrated that perceptions on temporary suspension of entertainment events and a ban on alcohol sales during the pandemic were significantly associated with alcohol consumption behaviors. Specifically, the negative perceptions of these social measures were associated with the increase of drinking: OR = 1.42; 95% CI = [1.19, 1.69] and OR = 2.50; 95% CI = [2.11, 2.97], respectively. We recommended to assess the long-term effects of targeted social measures on drinking behavior, especially the post pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanavij Pannoi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Care, School of Pharmacy, Walailak University, Nakhonsrithammarat, Thailand
| | - Tida Sottiyotin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Care, School of Pharmacy, Walailak University, Nakhonsrithammarat, Thailand
| | | | - Najmee Adulyarat
- Department of Pharmaceutical Care, School of Pharmacy, Walailak University, Nakhonsrithammarat, Thailand.
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Leal WE, Iesue L, Moscrop-Blake K, Regalado J, Timmer A, González J. The Mediating Role of Problematic Alcohol Consumption on the Association Between Pandemic-Related Strains and Domestic Violence Across Six Countries. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2024:8862605241271389. [PMID: 39189055 DOI: 10.1177/08862605241271389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Research has documented that domestic violence increased worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies have also suggested that alcohol use, which also increased during COVID-19, is a risk factor for domestic violence victimization. However, research has yet to examine whether alcohol consumption mediated the relationship between pandemic-related stressful events and domestic violence. Using structural equation modeling, the current study examines the impact of three types of pandemic-related strains (financial problems, familial problems, and work problems) on individual assessments about whether their drinking became problematic during the pandemic and then whether problematic alcohol use increases the risk of psychological and physical domestic violence. This model was analyzed across six countries: Ukraine, The Netherlands, Pakistan, Denmark, Guatemala, and the United States. Results indicate that the associations between pandemic-related strains and self-assessed problematic drinking varied by country. However, across all countries, problematic alcohol consumption was associated with increased physical and psychological domestic violence victimization. Overall, the findings of the current study support the use of programs that aim to reduce problematic consumption of alcohol with the hopes that they may, in turn, reduce psychological and physical domestic violence victimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanda E Leal
- Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX, USA
| | - Laura Iesue
- Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX, USA
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Ou C, Corby K, Booth K, Ou HH. Parental Patterns of Alcohol Consumption During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Scoping Review. Interact J Med Res 2024; 13:e48339. [PMID: 39186759 PMCID: PMC11384174 DOI: 10.2196/48339] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic led to public health restrictions that impacted the lives of people across the globe. Parents were particularly burdened with balancing multiple responsibilities, such as working from home while caring for and educating their children. Alcohol use among parents is an area that warrants further exploration. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate patterns of parental alcohol consumption during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on relative changes in the frequency and quantity of alcohol use compared to prepandemic use, nonparent adult samples, or both. METHODS A scoping review informed by the methodology of Arksey and O'Malley explored patterns of parental alcohol consumption during the COVID-19 pandemic. Searches were conducted in CINAHL, Ovid MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. Search terms were created using the Joanna Briggs Institute framework of Population, Concept, and Context, with the population being parents and the concept being alcohol consumption during the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS The database search yielded 3568 articles, which were screened for eligibility. Of the 3568 articles, 40 (1.12%) met the inclusion criteria and were included in the scoping review. Findings indicated the following: (1) having children at home was a factor associated with parental patterns of alcohol use; (2) mixed findings regarding gender-related patterns of alcohol consumption; and (3) linkages between parental patterns of alcohol use and mental health symptoms of stress, depression, and anxiety. CONCLUSIONS This scoping review revealed heterogeneous patterns in parental alcohol use across sociocultural contexts during the COVID-19 pandemic. Given the known harms of alcohol use, it is worthwhile for clinicians to assess parental drinking patterns and initiate conversations regarding moderation in alcohol use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Ou
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, School of Nursing, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Kathryn Corby
- School of Nursing, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Kelsey Booth
- School of Nursing, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Hui-Hui Ou
- Library Services, University of the Fraser Valley, Abbotsford, BC, Canada
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Tully JL, Bridge O, Rennie J, Krecké J, Stevens T. The rising use of cognitive enhancement drugs and predictors of use during COVID-19: findings from a cross-sectional survey of students and university staff in the UK. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1356496. [PMID: 39077204 PMCID: PMC11284161 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1356496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The use of psychoactive substances to increase cognitive performance while studying has been termed 'pharmacological cognitive enhancement' (PCE). In previous years, several large-scale national surveys have focused on their use by students at university, including drug types, prevalence rates, and predictive factors. The recent coronavirus pandemic brought about widespread structural changes for UK universities, as students were forced to adapt to home-based learning and in many cases reduced academic support. No study has yet focused primarily on the impact of pandemic social restrictions on PCE in students and academic staff, and whether personality and demographic factors reveal user profiles that predict use during the pandemic period. Method A convenience sample of 736 UK students and staff aged 18-54 (M = 22.2, SD = 5.2) completed a cross-sectional survey assessing PCE prevalence rates, polydrug use, perceived effects, academic self-efficacy and personality during the first year of social restrictions (March 2020 - February 2021) compared with the previous year (March 2019 - February 2020). Results There was a significant self-reported rise in the use of all drug types (all ps < 0.001) during social restrictions, particularly with Modafinil (+42%), nutraceuticals (+30.2%) and microdose LSD (+22.2%). Respondents also indicated stronger PCE effects for all substances, except alcohol, in comparison to the previous year. Polydrug use with modafinil and other prescription stimulants increased the most during social restrictions. Personality factors and gender identity reliably predicted PCE use and lower agreeableness was often the strongest predictor, followed by identifying as male and lower conscientiousness. Academic self-efficacy and student/academic staff status were not consistent predictors. Conclusion This is the first survey of UK students to investigate PCE during coronavirus social restrictions and to assess predictive factors. Findings reveal a rise in PCE use and polydrug use which we suggest is because of increased pressures on students created by the lockdown and reduced access to university resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie L. Tully
- Department of Psychology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Oliver Bridge
- School of Education, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Rennie
- Department of Psychology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Joy Krecké
- Department of Psychology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Tobias Stevens
- Department of Psychology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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Al-Momani H, Aolymat I, Al Haj Mahmoud S. Critical appraisal of how COVID-19 infection and imposed lockdowns have impacted gastroesophageal reflux: A review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e38074. [PMID: 38728518 PMCID: PMC11081575 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000038074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Previous literature has demonstrated that COronaVIrus Disease of 2019 (COVID-19) impacts an individual gastrointestinal tract (GIT), causing symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus RNA has been discovered in the stool of infected individuals in earlier research. It was discovered that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus was significantly expressed in the GIT, indicating that the virus can also infect the digestive system. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 functions as the viral receptor. The chronic illness known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is typified by frequent reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus. By triggering the sensitized esophageal-bronchial neuronal circuit or aspirating into the airways (microaspiration), GER exacerbates respiratory diseases. Aspiration is a well-known risk to be considered when treating patients in intensive care units. Strong genetic correlations have been identified between COVID-19 infection and GERD susceptibility, suggesting a shared genetic basis for both conditions. Nonetheless, even though GERD, extraesophageal reflex, and COVID-19 have a number of significant risk factors and exhibit similar symptoms, the relationship between these illnesses has not yet been examined in depth. This review is the first of its kind to critically examine the association between the COVID-19 epidemic and GER and its associated diseases. The key objective of this work is to promote the creation of prevention plans, treatment plans, and guidelines while also enhancing and optimizing our understanding of the relationship between COVID-19 and GERs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hafez Al-Momani
- Department of Microbiology, Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Iman Aolymat
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Sameer Al Haj Mahmoud
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Balqa’ Applied University, Al-Salt, Jordan
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Crișan CA, Pop R, Stretea R, Milhem Z, Forray AI. Coping strategies, resilience and quality of life: reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic among Romanian physicians. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2024; 22:28. [PMID: 38715124 PMCID: PMC11075254 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-024-00909-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has presented multiple psychological challenges for healthcare workers, such as anxiety, depression, burnout, and substance use disorders. In this research, we investigate the different ways Romanian physicians dealt with the difficult period of the COVID-19 pandemic. We also analyze how positive and negative stress-reducing strategies, as well as demographic variables, affect their psychological resilience and quality of life. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of how physicians coped with the unprecedented global health challenges. METHODS We carried out a national cross-sectional study of 265 physicians in Romania between January 2021 and January 2022 using a web-based questionnaire. The study employed a web-based questionnaire to assess coping mechanisms using the COPE inventory, resilience through the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale 25 (CD-RISC 25), and quality of life via the WHOQOL-BREF scale. The COPE inventory, consisting of 60 items across 15 subscales, categorizes coping strategies into problem-focused, emotion-focused, and dysfunctional types, with each item rated on a 4-point scale. The CD-RISC 25 measures resilience on a 5-point Likert scale, with total scores ranging from 0 to 100. WHOQOL-BREF assesses quality of life through 26 items in 4 domains: physical, mental, social relations, and environmental, scored from 1 to 5 and converted to a 0-100 scale for domain scores. Univariate and multivariate linear regression models were employed to discern the intricate relationships between coping strategies, resilience levels, quality of life dimensions, and pertinent demographic factors. RESULTS The average CD-RISC score among participants was 66.2. The mean scores for the values for the QOL subscales were 64.0 for physical well-being, 61.7 for psychological well-being, 61.2 for social relationships, and 64.7 for environment. Individuals tend to use problem-focused and emotion-focused coping more than dysfunctional mechanisms, according to the COPE inventory. Problem-focused and emotion-focused coping are positively correlated with resilience, while dysfunctional coping is negatively correlated. Resilience is significantly influenced by gender and professional status, with males and senior specialists reporting higher levels while younger physicians and residents reporting lower levels. CONCLUSIONS Our data points to specific protective characteristics and some detrimental factors on physicians' resilience and quality of life during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cătălina Angela Crișan
- Department of Neurosciences, Discipline of Psychiatry and Pediatric Psychiatry, Iuliu Hațieganu, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Răzvan Pop
- Clinical Hospital for Infectious Diseases, 400347, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Roland Stretea
- Department of Neurosciences, Discipline of Psychiatry and Pediatric Psychiatry, Iuliu Hațieganu, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Zaki Milhem
- Department of Neurosciences, Discipline of Psychiatry and Pediatric Psychiatry, Iuliu Hațieganu, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alina-Ioana Forray
- Department of Community Medicine, Discipline of Public Health and Management, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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James SA, Chen S, Dang JH, Hall S, Campbell JE, Chen MS, Doescher MP. Changes in alcohol consumption and binge drinking during the COVID-19 pandemic among American Indians residing in California and Oklahoma. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2024; 50:371-381. [PMID: 38843382 PMCID: PMC11305900 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2024.2344482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Background: This study explored the increased quantity and frequency of alcohol use in the American Indian (AI) population during the COVID-19 pandemic.Objectives: The aims of this study were to explore possible associations between covariables and both binge drinking and alcohol consumption during COVID-19.Methods: This cross-sectional survey study analyzed data from a sample of AI individuals (63% female) residing in California (n = 411) and Oklahoma (n = 657) between October 2020-January 2021. Analysis included summary statistics and multivariable logistic regression, including a variety of socio-economic, COVID-19 concern, and tobacco and marijuana use variables.Results: One or more alcohol binge episodes were reported between October 2020-January 2021 in 19.3% of participants and elevated overall alcohol consumption was reported by 21.6% of participants. Higher odds of elevated alcohol consumption occurred in women and those following more social distancing measures. The odds of binge drinking or elevated alcohol consumption in those using both marijuana and tobacco (aOR/ adjusted odds ratio:18.9, 95% CI = 8.5, 42.2, and aOR:3.9, 95% CI = 1.7, 8.6, respectively) were higher compared to those using neither. Similarly, the odds of binge drinking or elevated alcohol consumption in those using tobacco only (aOR:4.7, 95% CI = 2.9, 7.7 and aOR: 2.0, 95% CI = 1.1, 3.5, respectively) were higher compared to those using neither.Conclusions: This study found high rates of alcohol use and bingeing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Offering collaborative, culturally sensitive, and affordable support services are important components of intervention and preparation for future stressful events on local, as well as global levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley A James
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Hudson College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Sixia Chen
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Hudson College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Julie Ht Dang
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Division of Health Policy and Management, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Spencer Hall
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Hudson College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Janis E Campbell
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Hudson College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Moon S Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Mark P Doescher
- Stephenson Cancer Center, College of Medicine, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Oklahoma College of Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
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Crowley R, Hilden D, Beachy M. Excessive Alcohol Use and Alcohol Use Disorders: A Policy Brief of the American College of Physicians. Ann Intern Med 2024; 177:656-657. [PMID: 38648644 DOI: 10.7326/m23-3434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Alcohol is used by more people in the United States than tobacco, electronic nicotine delivery systems, or illicit drugs. Several health conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and liver disease, are associated with excessive alcohol use and alcohol use disorder. Nearly 30 million people aged 12 years or older in the United States reported past-year alcohol use disorder in 2022, but-despite its prevalence-alcohol use disorder is undertreated. In this policy brief, the American College of Physicians outlines the health effects of excessive alcohol use and alcohol use disorder, calls for policy changes to increase the availability of treatment of alcohol use disorder and excessive alcohol use, and recommends alcohol-related public health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Crowley
- American College of Physicians, Washington, DC (R.C.)
| | - David Hilden
- Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, Minnesota (D.H.)
| | - Micah Beachy
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (M.B.)
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Sandoval-Diez N, Smit LAM, Boer JMA, de Rooij MMT, Koppelman GH, van Kersen W, Vonk JM, Vermeulen R, Gehring U, Huss A. Associations of Anti-COVID-19 Measures and Lifestyle Changes During the COVID-19 Pandemic With Sleep Patterns in the Netherlands: A Longitudinal Study. Am J Epidemiol 2024; 193:646-659. [PMID: 37981719 PMCID: PMC10999649 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwad228] [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: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Although there is scientific evidence for an increased prevalence of sleep disorders during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, there is still limited information on how lifestyle factors might have affected sleep patterns. Therefore, we followed a large cohort of participants in the Netherlands (n = 5,420) for up to 1 year (September 2020-2021) via monthly Web-based questionnaires to identify lifestyle changes (physical activity, cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, electronic device use, and social media use) driven by anti-COVID-19 measures and their potential associations with self-reported sleep (latency, duration, and quality). We used the Containment and Health Index (CHI) to assess the stringency of anti-COVID-19 measures and analyzed associations through multilevel ordinal response models. We found that more stringent anti-COVID-19 measures were associated with higher use of electronic devices (per interquartile-range increase in CHI, odds ratio (OR) = 1.47, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.40, 1.53), less physical activity (OR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.90, 0.98), lower frequency of alcohol consumption (OR = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.60, 0.66), and longer sleep duration (OR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.16). Lower alcohol consumption frequency and higher use of electronic devices and social media were associated with longer sleep latency. Lower physical activity levels and higher social media and electronic device use were related to poorer sleep quality and shorter sleep duration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Anke Huss
- Correspondence to Dr. Anke Huss, Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, the Netherlands (e-mail: )
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Andersen AJ, Wallez S, Melchior M, Mary-Krause M. Our perception may not be reality: A longitudinal study of the relationship between perceived and actual change in smoking behavior. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301515. [PMID: 38557563 PMCID: PMC10984459 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301515] [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: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Results of the impact of lockdowns and stay-at-home orders during the COVID-19 pandemic on changes in cigarette smoking are mixed. Previous studies examining smoking changes during the early stages of the pandemic in 2020 have mainly focused on smoker's perception of changes in cigarette consumption. Such measure has not been widely used in other contexts, and therefore we aim to compare the discrepancy between smokers' perceived changes in cigarette smoking and the actual change in the number of cigarettes smoked, using repeated measurements. METHODS We included 134 smokers from the French TEMPO cohort with repeated measurements of their perceived changes in smoking habits during the first phase of the COVID-19 pandemic and the number of cigarettes smoked repeatedly from March to May 2020. We used generalized estimation equations (GEE) to examine the association between changes in the number of cigarettes smoked and the odds of mismatched answers. RESULTS The results suggest that at each study wave, 27-45% of participants provided mismatching answers between their perceived change in smoking habits and the actual change in the number of cigarettes smoked daily, measured repeatedly. Results from GEE analysis demonstrated that a mismatching assessment of smoking behavior was elevated among those who had an increase (OR = 2.52 [1.37;4.65]) or a decrease (OR = 5.73 [3.27;10.03]) in number of cigarettes smoked. DISCUSSION Our findings highlight the possibility of obtaining different results depending on how changes in tobacco smoking are measured. This highlights the risk of underestimating the actual changes in cigarette smoking during the COVID-19 pandemic, but also more generally when validating public health interventions or smoking cessation programs. Therefore, objective measures such as the actual consumption of psychoactive substances should be utilized, preferably on a longitudinal basis, to mitigate recall bias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid Juhl Andersen
- INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d’Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP, Equipe de Recherche en Epidémiologie Sociale, ERES, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Solène Wallez
- INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d’Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP, Equipe de Recherche en Epidémiologie Sociale, ERES, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Maria Melchior
- INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d’Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP, Equipe de Recherche en Epidémiologie Sociale, ERES, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Murielle Mary-Krause
- INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d’Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP, Equipe de Recherche en Epidémiologie Sociale, ERES, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
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Lightfoot CJ, Wilkinson TJ, Patel NA, Jones CR, Smith AC. Patient activation and psychological coping strategies to manage challenging circumstances during the COVID-19 pandemic in people with kidney disease. J Nephrol 2024; 37:353-364. [PMID: 38236468 PMCID: PMC11043035 DOI: 10.1007/s40620-023-01851-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coping with health problems requires some degree of self-management; however, an individual's ability to self-manage can be threatened during challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Exploring differences and changes in psychological well-being and coping strategies between those with low and high patient activation may inform appropriate interventions to support psychological coping. METHODS People with chronic kidney disease (CKD) (non-dialysis and transplant) were recruited from 11 hospital sites across England between August and December 2020. Participants responded to an online survey study, including the Brief Coping Orientation to Problem Experienced (COPE) Inventory, Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), Short Health Anxiety Index (SHAI), and Patient Activation Measure (PAM-13). A follow-up survey was conducted 6-9 months later. Paired t tests assessed within-group changes, and chi-squared tests compared coping strategies utilised by low- and high-activated participants. General linear modelling was performed to determine the relationship between patient activation and coping strategies, and covariates. RESULTS Two hundred and fourteen participants were recruited (mean age: 60.7, 51% male, mean eGFR: 38.9 ml/min/1.73 m2). Low-activated participants were significantly more anxious than high-activated participants (P = 0.045). Health anxiety significantly decreased (i.e., got better) for high-activated participants (P = 0.016). Higher patient activation scores were associated with greater use of problem-focused strategies (β = 0.288, P < 0.001). Age (β = - 0.174, P = 0.012), sex (β = 0.188, P = 0.004), and education level (β = 0.159, P = 0.019) significantly predicted use of problem-focused strategies. DISCUSSION Those with higher activation had lower levels of anxiety, and more frequently used adaptive coping strategies during the pandemic. Targeted support and interventions may be required for people with CKD to enhance patient activation, encourage more positive adaptive coping strategies, and mitigate maladaptive coping strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney Jane Lightfoot
- Leicester Kidney Lifestyle Team, Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK.
- Leicester NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Leicester, UK.
| | - Thomas James Wilkinson
- Leicester Kidney Lifestyle Team, Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
- Leicester NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Leicester, UK
| | - Naeema Aiyub Patel
- Leicester Kidney Lifestyle Team, Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
- Leicester NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Leicester, UK
| | - Ceri Rhiannon Jones
- Department of Neuroscience Psychology and Behaviour, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Alice Caroline Smith
- Leicester Kidney Lifestyle Team, Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
- Leicester NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Leicester, UK
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Reichenberger J, van Alebeek H, Messer T, Blechert J. Excess after stress-A three-study validation of the salzburg stress drinking scale as a new tool to measure the stress-drinking relationship. Stress Health 2024; 40:e3293. [PMID: 37462153 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Stress frequently influences a person's propensity to drink alcohol. Inter-individual differences in such stress-related drinking can be assessed through psychometric scales; however, available questionnaires conflate stress- with emotion-related reasons to drink and ignore evidence of decreased alcohol consumption in response to stress. Therefore, we developed a genuine stress-drinking scale (Salzburg Stress Drinking Scale; SSDS), adapted from the Salzburg Stress Eating Scale, and assessed its psychometric properties. In study 1 (n = 639), the SSDS was found to have a one-factor structure, excellent internal consistency, and acceptable test-retest reliability. SSDS scores were significantly correlated with other measures assessing emotional drinking, but uncorrelated with general alcohol pathology and other health-relevant consummatory behaviors such as stress-related eating or nicotine consumption. In addition, no significant sex differences arose. In study 2 (n = 42) patients with an alcohol use disorder or addiction scored significantly higher on the SSDS compared to healthy controls. In an Ecological Momentary Assessment study 3 (n = 67), the SSDS showed partial ecological validity through significant relationships with daily alcohol consumption, but not daily stress-drinking relationships. In sum, the SSDS represents a psychometrically sound tool for the measurement of stress-related drinking and complements a battery of stress-related changes in health-relevant behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Reichenberger
- Department of Psychology, Paris-Lodron-University of Salzburg, Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Hannah van Alebeek
- Department of Psychology, Paris-Lodron-University of Salzburg, Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Thomas Messer
- Danuvius Clinic Pfaffenhofen, Clinic for Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Germany
| | - Jens Blechert
- Department of Psychology, Paris-Lodron-University of Salzburg, Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, Salzburg, Austria
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13
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Chiang M, Markoulakis R, Levitt A. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on perceived changes in responsibilities for adult caregivers who support children and youth in Ontario, Canada. BJPsych Open 2024; 10:e35. [PMID: 38265051 PMCID: PMC10897706 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2023.632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has created long-lasting changes in caregiving responsibilities, including but not limited to increased demands, loss of support, worsening mental and physical health, and increased financial worries. There is currently limited evidence regarding factors associated with perceived changes in caregiving responsibilities. AIMS This observational study aimed to investigate factors (sociodemographic characteristics of caregivers and mental health and/or addiction concerns of the caregiver and their youth) that predict perceived negative changes in caregiving responsibilities among adult caregivers (aged 18+ years) of children and youth (aged 0-25 years) in Ontario, Canada, during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD Data were collected from 1381 caregivers of children and youth between January and March of 2022 through a representative cross-sectional survey completed online. Logistic regression was conducted to determine predictors contributing to perceived negative changes in caregiving responsibilities. RESULTS Among the sociodemographic characteristics, only ethnicity significantly predicted outcome. Higher caregiver strain (odds ratio [OR] = 10.567, 95% CI = 6.614-16.882, P < 0.001), worsened personal mental health (OR = 1.945, 95% CI = 1.474-2.567, P < 0.001), a greater number of children/youth cared for per caregiver (OR = 1.368, 95% CI = 1.180-1.587, P < 0.001), dissatisfaction with the availability of social supports (OR = 1.768, 95% CI = 1.297-2.409, P < 0.001) and negative changes in mental well-being in at least one child/youth (OR = 2.277, 95% CI = 1.660-3.123, P < 0.001) predicted negative changes in caregiving responsibilities. CONCLUSION These results support further exploration of the implications of negative perceptions of caregiving responsibilities and what processes might be implemented to improve these perceptions and the outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline Chiang
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and College of Science, University of Notre Dame, South Bend, Indiana, USA
| | - Roula Markoulakis
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anthony Levitt
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Family Navigation Project, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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14
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Straume Z, Krūmiņa N, Elbere I, Rozenberga M, Rudzīte D, Proskurina A, Ozoliņa J, Kloviņš J, Skuja V, Krūmiņa A. Exploring the Impact of COVID-19 on Ulcerative Colitis Patients: A Lifestyle Perspective. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:182. [PMID: 38276061 PMCID: PMC10819492 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60010182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2 is the new coronavirus that caused the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak. Studies have increasingly reported the involvement of organs outside the respiratory system, including the gastrointestinal tract. Data on the association between COVID-19 and ulcerative colitis (UC) are lacking. Materials and Methods: In this one-centre cross-sectional study, 49 patients with UC from the Riga East Clinical University Hospital outpatient clinic were included from June 2021 to December 2021. The patients were divided into two groups according to their history of a confirmed positive or negative COVID-19 status. Data on their lifestyle, diet, and medications and the food supplements used by the patients were collected during interviews and analysed using the R 4.2.1 software. Results: Out of 49 patients, 33 (63.3%) were male and 13 (36.7%) were female, with a mean age of 32.33 ± 8.6 years. Fourteen patients (28.6%) had a confirmed COVID-19 infection in the last year. The most common COVID-19-related symptoms were a fever and rhinorrhoea. A third of patients followed the inflammatory bowel disease diet (16; 32.7%); out of these patients, 12 (34.3%) did not contract COVID-19 (OR: 0.78 (0.18; 2.98), p > 0.05). In the COVID-19-positive group, the majority of patients did not use vitamin D (11; 79% vs. 3; 21%, (OR: 0.38 (0.07; 1.51), p = 0.28) or probiotics (11; 78.6% vs. 3; 21.4%, OR: 1.33 (0.23; 6.28), p = 0.7). In the COVID-19-positive group, most patients did not smoke (12; 85.7% vs. 2; 14.3%, p = 0.475) and did not use alcohol (9; 64.3% vs. 5; 35.7%, OR: 0.63 (0.16; 2.57), p = 0.5). Most of the patients who participated in sports activities were COVID-negative (18; 51.4% vs. 6; 42.9%, p = 0.82). Conclusions: There were no statistically significant differences in the use of food supplements, probiotics, or vitamins; the lifestyle habits; or the COVID-19 status in patients with UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zane Straume
- Riga East Clinical University Hospital, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition Clinic, Hipokrata Street 2, LV-1038 Riga, Latvia; (J.O.); (V.S.)
- Department of Internal Diseases, Riga Stradins University, Dzirciema Street 16, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia; (N.K.); (A.P.)
| | - Nikola Krūmiņa
- Department of Internal Diseases, Riga Stradins University, Dzirciema Street 16, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia; (N.K.); (A.P.)
| | - Ilze Elbere
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Ratsupites Street 1, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (I.E.); (J.K.)
| | - Maija Rozenberga
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Ratsupites Street 1, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (I.E.); (J.K.)
| | - Dace Rudzīte
- Laboratory “Gailezers”Riga East Clinical University Hospital, Hipokrata Street 2, LV-1038 Riga, Latvia;
| | - Anna Proskurina
- Department of Internal Diseases, Riga Stradins University, Dzirciema Street 16, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia; (N.K.); (A.P.)
- Pauls Stradins Clinical University Hospital, Pilsonu Street 13, LV-1002 Riga, Latvia
| | - Juliana Ozoliņa
- Riga East Clinical University Hospital, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition Clinic, Hipokrata Street 2, LV-1038 Riga, Latvia; (J.O.); (V.S.)
- Department of Internal Diseases, Riga Stradins University, Dzirciema Street 16, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia; (N.K.); (A.P.)
| | - Jānis Kloviņš
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Ratsupites Street 1, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (I.E.); (J.K.)
| | - Vita Skuja
- Riga East Clinical University Hospital, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition Clinic, Hipokrata Street 2, LV-1038 Riga, Latvia; (J.O.); (V.S.)
- Department of Internal Diseases, Riga Stradins University, Dzirciema Street 16, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia; (N.K.); (A.P.)
| | - Angelika Krūmiņa
- Department of Infectology, Riga Stradins University, Dzirciema Street 16, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia;
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15
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Mahamid F, Bdier D. Life stressors, tobacco use, and mental health among Palestinian youths: The mediating role of quality of life and physical activity. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2024:1-15. [PMID: 38165359 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2023.2297387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The current study tested the association between life stressors and tobacco use and mental health outcomes, including depression and anxiety, among Palestinian youths and whether quality of life (QoL) and physical activity can mediate the association between these variables. The sample consisted of 405 Palestinian youths, 245 male and 160 female; all were selected using online methods. Our findings revealed that life stressors were positively correlated with tobacco use (r = .20, p < .01), anxiety (r = -0.32, p < .01), and depression (r = .23, p < .01), while life stressors were negatively correlated with physical activity (r = -0.15, p < .01) and QoL (r = -0.41, p < .01). Results of structural equation modeling (SEM) indicated that QoL and physical activity mediated the association between life stressors and depression and anxiety. Our findings underline the importance of increasing physical activity levels among youths as a protective factor against tobacco use, depression, and anxiety. Moreover, community and school-based interventions to promote QoL and positive mental health in adolescents and youths should incorporate frequent physical activity and engagement in individual or team sports.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dana Bdier
- An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
- University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
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16
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Kosendiak AA, Wasilewski A, Kasprzak A, Marczyński P, Brawańska K, Chwałczyńska A. Level of knowledge, nutritional habits, use of stimulants, and physical activity during the COVID-19 epidemic among students of physiotherapy at Wroclaw Medical University. Nutrition 2024; 117:112247. [PMID: 37897983 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2023.112247] [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: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The COVID-19 pandemic had a huge effect around the world. The aim of this study was to determine what eating habits, physical activity, and use of stimulants were likely among physical therapy students during the outbreak. METHODS The 16-65-ComPAN questionnaire for views and eating habits was used. The Fagerström Test was used to determine nicotine dependence, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire to gauge physical activity, and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test to determine alcohol consumption. RESULTS The results indicated a relatively high percentage of alcohol consumption among this group, as well as a relationship between an unhealthy diet and years of study and smoking. A high value of unhealthy diet and the relationship between dietary knowledge, body mass index, and healthy diet index were also found. No correlation was obtained between the effect of COVID-19 on the student's life and nutritional knowledge and habits, but the percentage of students negatively affected by COVID was high (51%). CONCLUSION The findings presented here indicate the need to take measures to increase nutritional knowledge among physiotherapy students and to take measures to reduce the use of stimulants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrzej Wasilewski
- Student Scientific Association at Department of Physical Education and Sport, Wroclaw Medical UniversityWroclaw, Poland.
| | - Adrian Kasprzak
- Student Scientific Association at Department of Physical Education and Sport, Wroclaw Medical UniversityWroclaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Marczyński
- Student Scientific Association at Department of Physical Education and Sport, Wroclaw Medical UniversityWroclaw, Poland
| | - Kinga Brawańska
- Student Scientific Association at Department of Physical Education and Sport, Wroclaw Medical UniversityWroclaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Chwałczyńska
- Faculty of Physiotherapy, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
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17
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Dang JHT, Chen S, Hall S, Campbell JE, Chen MS, Doescher MP. Tobacco and marijuana use during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown among American Indians residing in California and Oklahoma. Tob Induc Dis 2023; 21:171. [PMID: 38125581 PMCID: PMC10731663 DOI: 10.18332/tid/174819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION American Indian (AI) people experience a disproportionate tobacco and marijuana burden which may have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Little is known about the tobacco and marijuana habits of American Indian individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic. The objective of this study is to examine tobacco and marijuana use as well as change in use during the COVID-19 pandemic among the American Indian community. METHODS This cross-sectional study analyzes survey data from a convenience sample of American Indian individuals residing in California and Oklahoma and included adults with and without cancer that resided in both rural and urban areas (n=1068). RESULTS During October 2020 - January 2021, 36.0% of participants reported current use of tobacco products, 9.9% reported current use of marijuana products, and 23.7% reported increased use of tobacco and/or marijuana in the past 30 days, with no difference between those with cancer and those without cancer. Tobacco use was associated with marital status, age, employment status, COVID-19 exposure, COVID-19 beliefs, and alcohol consumption. Marijuana use was associated with COVID-19 beliefs, alcohol consumption, and income level. Increased tobacco and/or marijuana use was associated with baseline use of those products. Nearly a quarter of participants reported increased use of tobacco and/or marijuana products during the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSIONS We observed high rates of tobacco use during the COVID-19 pandemic, consistent with other studies. Research is needed to examine whether tobacco and marijuana use will decrease to pre-pandemic levels post-pandemic or if these behaviors will persist post-pandemic. Given these findings, there is a pressing need to increase access to evidence-based tobacco and marijuana treatment services in the AI population post COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie H T Dang
- Division of Health Policy and Management, Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, United States
| | - Sixia Chen
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Hudson College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, United States
| | - Spencer Hall
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Hudson College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, United States
| | - Janis E Campbell
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Hudson College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, United States
| | - Moon S Chen
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, United States
| | - Mark P Doescher
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma College of Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, United States
- Stephenson Cancer Center, Oklahoma City, United States
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18
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Lawler T, Warren Andersen S, Trentham-Dietz A, Sethi AK, Tevaarwerk AJ, Malecki KMC, Litzelman K, Pophali PA, Gangnon RE, Hampton JM, Kwekkeboom K, LoConte NK. Change in alcohol consumption during the Covid-19 pandemic and associations with mental health and financial hardship: results from a survey of Wisconsin patients with cancer. J Cancer Surviv 2023:10.1007/s11764-023-01502-1. [PMID: 38017319 PMCID: PMC11130075 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-023-01502-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Alcohol consumption increases health risks for patients with cancer. The Covid-19 pandemic may have affected drinking habits for these individuals. We surveyed patients with cancer to examine whether changes in drinking habits were related to mental health or financial effects of the pandemic. METHODS From October 2020 to April 2021, adult patients (age 18-80 years at diagnosis) treated for cancer in southcentral Wisconsin were invited to complete a survey. Age-adjusted percentages for history of anxiety or depression, emotional distress, and financial impacts of Covid-19 overall and by change in alcohol consumption (non-drinker, stable, decreased, or increased) were obtained via logistic regression. RESULTS In total, 1,875 patients were included in the analysis (median age 64, range 19-87 years), including 9% who increased and 23% who decreased drinking. Compared to stable drinkers (32% of sample), a higher proportion of participants who increased drinking alcohol also reported anxiety or depression (45% vs. 26%), moderate to severe emotional distress (61% vs. 37%) and viewing Covid-19 as a threat to their community (67% vs. 55%). Decreased (vs. stable) drinking was associated with higher prevalence of depression or anxiety diagnosis, emotional distress, and negative financial impacts of the pandemic. Compared to non-drinkers (36% of sample), participants who increased drinking were more likely to report emotional distress (61% vs. 48%). CONCLUSIONS Patients with cancer from Wisconsin who changed their alcohol consumption during the Covid-19 pandemic were more likely to report poor mental health including anxiety, depression, and emotional distress than persons whose alcohol consumption was stable. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Clinicians working with cancer survivors should be aware of the link between poor mental health and increased alcohol consumption and be prepared to offer guidance or referrals to counseling, as needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Lawler
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA.
| | - Shaneda Warren Andersen
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Amy Trentham-Dietz
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Ajay K Sethi
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Kristen M C Malecki
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Division of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kristin Litzelman
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA
- School of Human Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Priyanka A Pophali
- Division of Hematology, Medical Oncology and Palliative Care, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Ronald E Gangnon
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - John M Hampton
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kristine Kwekkeboom
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA
- School of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Noelle K LoConte
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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19
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Daou L, Rached A, Jrad M, Naja W, Haddad R. Substance use disorder in the context of the economic crisis, covid-19 pandemic and social unrest: a cross-sectional study across Beirut (2020-2021). L'ENCEPHALE 2023:S0013-7006(23)00177-X. [PMID: 37985261 DOI: 10.1016/j.encep.2023.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substance use disorder (SUD) is related to the interplay of various factors. The primary objective of this study was to assess the variation in substance use (SU) among a set of Lebanese people undergoing treatment for SUD during the Lebanese economic crisis, COVID-19 pandemic, and Beirut Blast. METHODS A cross-sectional study including Lebanese adults previously diagnosed with and being treated for SUD at the Skoun center was conducted. Data collection was done using a paper-based Arabic questionnaire tackling the economic crisis, the Covid-19 pandemic, and the Beirut Blast, as well as the following scores: APGAR, PHQ-9, GAD-7 and PCL-6. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0 with P value<0.05 considered significant. A bivariate analysis was conducted to study the association between the use of substances and study variables and scores. RESULTS The sample included 126 men and 10 women. Most participants had a stable consumption of illicit drugs (58.8%), alcohol (76.5%), prescription drugs (70.6%) and non-prescription drugs (89%). Additionally, most participants had concomitant mild or moderate depression (55.1%), mild or moderate anxiety (50.7%), and PTSD (61.8%). Factors found to significantly increase SU were economic distress, change in employment status, and decrease in working hours. PTSD was also identified as a risk factor for increased illicit drug and alcohol use. Furthermore, severe anxiety was found to be a risk factor for increased alcohol consumption. CONCLUSION Most participants were able to maintain a stable pattern of SU despite the quadruple crisis in Lebanon highlighting the important role played by Lebanese Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and efforts employed to control SUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Daou
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Betchay, Mount Lebanon, Lebanon.
| | - Ahmad Rached
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Betchay, Mount Lebanon, Lebanon
| | - Manal Jrad
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Betchay, Mount Lebanon, Lebanon
| | - Wadih Naja
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Betchay, Mount Lebanon, Lebanon
| | - Ramzi Haddad
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Betchay, Mount Lebanon, Lebanon; Department of Psychiatry, Saint Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
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20
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Pankowski D, Wytrychiewicz-Pankowska K, Kiedik D, Fal AM. Navigating the Shifts: Retrospective Analysis of Alcohol Consumption and its Predictors Across Pre-Pandemic, Lockdown, and Post-Pandemic Eras in Poland. Med Sci Monit 2023; 29:e940768. [PMID: 37933093 PMCID: PMC10638860 DOI: 10.12659/msm.940768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol consumption is a serious health risk that affects both physical and mental health. It is one of the major risk factors in the development of non-communicable diseases. The aim of this study was to perform a retrospective analysis of alcohol consumption patterns, determine of predictors of alcohol addiction, and attempt to distinguish and compare the profiles of participants differentiated in terms of their preferences in the pre-pandemic, lockdown, and post-pandemic periods. MATERIAL AND METHODS A retrospective study was conducted with a computer-assisted web interview on a representative sample of Polish citizens. Primary outcomes were sociodemographic and COVID-19-related variables, preferences regarding the type and location of consumed alcohol, reasons for drinking, severity of addiction symptoms, loneliness, quality of life, and health level. RESULTS During the lockdown period, the percentage of people declaring abstinence increased, as well as people who, according to the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) cut-off points, could be diagnosed with probable alcohol dependence. The strongest predictors of the severity of addiction symptoms were preferences regarding the type and place of alcohol consumption, with a high percentage of explained variance (>50%). The analysis of profiles differentiated in terms of the preferred type of alcohol consumed allowed for the identification of 7 different profiles, which differed in terms of AUDIT score, loneliness, quality of life, and level of health. CONCLUSIONS Patterns of alcohol consumption changed during the pandemic. Alcohol-related preferences are important from the public health perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Pankowski
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Economics and Human Sciences in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Polish Society of Public Health, Wrocław, Poland
| | | | - Dorota Kiedik
- Polish Society of Public Health, Wrocław, Poland
- Department of Public Health, Wrocław Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Andrzej Mariusz Fal
- Polish Society of Public Health, Wrocław, Poland
- Department of Public Health, Wrocław Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
- Collegium Medicum Cardinal Wyszýnski University, Warsaw, Poland
- Central Clinical Hospital, Ministry of Interior, Warsaw, Poland
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21
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Mehra K, Rup J, Wiese JL, Watson TM, Bonato S, Rueda S. Changes in self-reported cannabis use during the COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2139. [PMID: 37915021 PMCID: PMC10621278 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17068-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting mental health and substance use (MHSU) issues worldwide. The purpose of this study was to characterize the literature on changes in cannabis use during the pandemic and the factors associated with such changes. METHODS We conducted a scoping review by searching peer-reviewed databases and grey literature from January 2020 to May 2022 using the Arksey and O'Malley Framework. Two independent reviewers screened a total of 4235 documents. We extracted data from 129 documents onto a data extraction form and collated results using content analytical techniques. RESULTS Nearly half (48%) of the studies reported an increase/initiation of cannabis use, while 36% studies reported no change, and 16% reported a decrease/cessation of cannabis use during the pandemic. Factors associated with increased cannabis use included socio-demographic factors (e.g., younger age), health related factors (e.g., increased symptom burden), MHSU factors (e.g., anxiety, depression), pandemic-specific reactions (e.g., stress, boredom, social isolation), cannabis-related factors (e.g., dependence), and policy-related factors (e.g., legalization of medical/recreational cannabis). CONCLUSION Public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic have the potential to significantly impact cannabis use. The pandemic has placed urgency on improving coping mechanisms and supports that help populations adapt to major and sudden life changes. To better prepare health care systems for future pandemics, wide-reaching education on how pandemic-related change impacts cannabis use is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamna Mehra
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 2S1, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada
| | - Jennifer Rup
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 2S1, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada
| | - Jessica L Wiese
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 2S1, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada
| | - Tara Marie Watson
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 500 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1V7, Canada
| | - Sarah Bonato
- Library Services, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 2S1, Canada
| | - Sergio Rueda
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 2S1, Canada.
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada.
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A1, Canada.
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Bhattarai D, Upadhyaya S, Banstola H, Pant SB. Alcohol Withdrawal Presenting with Cut Throat Injury during COVID-19 Lockdown: Case Reports from Nepal. Case Rep Psychiatry 2023; 2023:5514321. [PMID: 37928320 PMCID: PMC10624550 DOI: 10.1155/2023/5514321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The relationship between alcohol dependence and suicidal tendency is well recognized. Self-harm by cut throat is an uncommon but is potentially life-threatening when attempted. We present a description and discussion of a series of three cases of alcohol dependence syndrome who presented with self-inflicted cut throat wounds during the lockdown period from 24th March to 7th July 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic at the largest tertiary care hospital in Nepal. Case description. During the three and a half months of COVID-19 lockdown, we had three cases of alcohol dependence syndrome presenting to emergency services with a self-inflicted cut throat injury. Two cases were diagnosed as having alcohol withdrawal delirium and one case as alcohol-induced psychotic disorder (alcoholic hallucinosis) as per the international classification of mental and behavioral disorders diagnostic criteria for research. All three cases were alcohol dependent for more than a decade, but with no prior self-harm attempts. Necessary surgical interventions were done by the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, and in liaison with the Department of Psychiatry, appropriate psychiatric management was done. All three cases had uneventful outcomes in regard to wound care and mental disorder. Conclusion Suicidal precautions should be taken in alcohol dependence during phases of consumption and abstinence. Screening for alcohol dependence and withdrawal should be a standard process in all self-harm cases that present to the emergency department during a crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipesh Bhattarai
- Department of Psychiatry, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Shreeram Upadhyaya
- Department of Psychiatry, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Hemanta Banstola
- Department of General Practice and Emergency Medicine, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Sagun Ballav Pant
- Department of Psychiatry, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal
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Amendola S, Volken T, Zysset A, Huber M, von Wyl A, Dratva J. Trend in loneliness among Swiss university students during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY REPORT 2023; 12:53-67. [PMID: 38425886 PMCID: PMC10900978 DOI: 10.5114/hpr/169721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The need to maintain physical and social distance between people and the stay-at-home recommendation/order to contain the spread of COVID-19 have raised concerns about the possible increase in loneliness. However, few studies have analyzed trends or changes in loneliness in samples of young adults. The present study aimed to explore the prevalence of loneliness and its change during the COVID-19 pandemic. PARTICIPANTS AND PROCEDURE This is a repeated cross-sectional study analyzing data collected through six online surveys between April 2020 and March 2021 from 5,669 university students in Switzerland. Logistic regression models were used to examine trends in loneliness and associations between loneliness, well-being, life at home, COVID-19 symptoms and tests. RESULTS Loneliness decreased between April 2020 and May-June 2020. In contrast, loneliness was higher in December 2020, January and March 2021 compared to April 2020. Loneliness was associated with younger age, studying architecture, design and civil engineering or engineering, enjoying time spent with family/partner, experiencing tensions and conflicts at home, boredom, feeling locked up and subjective well-being and current health. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight an increase in loneliness during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, although a seasonality effect cannot be excluded. Public health systems and educational institutions need to monitor the effects of social distancing measures and reduced social contact on students' loneliness and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Amendola
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology and Health Studies, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Applied Psychology, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Volken
- Department of Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Winterthur, Switzerland
| | - Annina Zysset
- Department of Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Winterthur, Switzerland
| | - Marion Huber
- Department of Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Winterthur, Switzerland
| | - Agnes von Wyl
- Department of Applied Psychology, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Julia Dratva
- Department of Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Winterthur, Switzerland
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Remesan AK, Sekaran VC, Jothikaran TAJ, Ashok L. Substance Use among Emerging Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Review through the Lens of Sustainable Development Goals. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6834. [PMID: 37835104 PMCID: PMC10572374 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20196834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Public health initiatives, including lockdowns to reduce the spread of COVID-19, have resulted in societal stressors like loneliness, job loss, and economic collapse linked to worsening mental health outcomes, such as depression, anxiety, and coping-related substance use. The various psychosocial stressors caused by the pandemic have potentially led to the increased use of substances across the globe, particularly among emerging adults. The current study summarises the literature on substance use among emerging adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. The terms "coronavirus", "COVID-19", "substance use", "substance abuse", "drug use", drug abuse", "emerging adults", and "young adults" were all used in different combinations throughout the search, using the Scopus, PubMed, and JSTOR databases. Using this method, a total of 28 English-language citations published between 2020 and 2023 were obtained. Following a study of the articles mentioned above, 16 papers were removed. The remaining 12 papers were included in this review. Even though substance use dropped when COVID-19 lockdowns began, it rose when restrictions were removed, particularly among those with prior substance use. Studies related to mental health need to assess substance use, as many emerging adults use substances to cope with distress, including isolation and loneliness, which are part of the current mental health crisis among emerging adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajith K. Remesan
- Department of Health Policy, Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, India;
| | - Varalakshmi Chandra Sekaran
- Department of Health Policy, Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, India;
| | - Teddy Andrews Jaihind Jothikaran
- Department of Social and Health Innovation, Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, India; (T.A.J.J.); (L.A.)
| | - Lena Ashok
- Department of Social and Health Innovation, Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, India; (T.A.J.J.); (L.A.)
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Lemos-Santos P, Blumrich L, Debia JB, Castaldelli-Maia JM, Suen PJC, Malbergier A. Drug use among medical students in São Paulo, Brazil: a cross-sectional study during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. SAO PAULO MED J 2023; 142:e2022493. [PMID: 37703121 PMCID: PMC10495101 DOI: 10.1590/1516-3180.2022.0493.r1.150623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medical students demonstrate higher rates of substance use than other university students and the general population. The challenges imposed by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic raised significant concerns about mental health and substance use. OBJECTIVES Assess the current prevalence of substance use among medical students at the University of São Paulo and evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on drug consumption. DESIGN AND SETTING A cross-sectional study was conducted on 275 medical students from the University of São Paulo Medical School (São Paulo, Brazil) in August 2020. METHODS Substance use (lifetime, previous 12 months, and frequency of use before and during the COVID-19 pandemic) and socioeconomic data were assessed using an online self-administered questionnaire. Symptoms of depression were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. RESULTS Alcohol was the most consumed substance in their lifetime (95.6%), followed by illicit drugs (61.1%), marijuana (60%), and tobacco (57.5%). The most commonly consumed substances in the previous year were alcohol (82.9%), illicit drugs (44.7%), marijuana (42.5%), and tobacco (36%). Students in the first two academic years consumed fewer substances than those from higher years. There was a decreasing trend in the prevalence of most substances used after the COVID-19 pandemic among sporadic users. However, frequent users maintained their drug use patterns. CONCLUSION The prevalence of substance use was high in this population and increased from the basic to the clinical cycle. The COVID-19 pandemic may have affected the frequency of drug use and prevalence estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Lemos-Santos
- Undergraduate Student, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de
São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Lukas Blumrich
- Undergraduate Student, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de
São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo (SP), Brazil; Doctoral Student, Department of
Pediatrics, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São
Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Jordi Blanes Debia
- Undergraduate Student, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade
de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - João Mauricio Castaldelli-Maia
- PhD, Postgraduate Sponsor, Department of Psychiatry, Faculdade
de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo (SP), Brazil;
Assistant (Aux.) Professor, Department of Neuroscience, Centro Universitário
Faculdade de Medicina do ABC (FMABC), Santo André (SP), Brazil
| | - Paulo Jeng Chian Suen
- Undergraduate Student, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de
São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo (SP), Brazil; Doctoral Student, Department of
Psychiatry, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São
Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - André Malbergier
- PhD, General Coordinator, Interdisciplinary Group of Studies on
Alcohol and Drugs (GREA), Institute of Psychiatry (IPq), Hospital das Clínicas
da Universidade de São Paulo (HCFMUSP), São Paulo (SP), Brazil; Collaborating
Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de
São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo (SP), Brazil
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Smith E, Michalski S, Knauth KHK, Kaspar K, Reiter N, Peters J. Large-Scale Web Scraping for Problem Gambling Research: A Case Study of COVID-19 Lockdown Effects in Germany. J Gambl Stud 2023; 39:1487-1504. [PMID: 36707481 PMCID: PMC9882744 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-023-10187-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and the measures to prevent its spread have had a negative impact on substance use behaviour. It is likely that social distancing and lockdown measures have also altered gambling behaviour, for instance shifting from land-based to online gambling. We used large-scale web scraping to analyse posting behaviour on a major German online gambling forum, gathering a database of more than 200k posts. We examined the usage of different subforums, i.e. terrestrial, online gambling and problem gambling sections, and changes in posting behaviour related to the casino closures that were part of the nationwide restrictions in Germany in 2020. There was a marked increase in newly registered users during the first lockdown compared to the preceding weeks, an increase in the number of posts in the online gambling subforum and concurrent decrease in the terrestrial gambling subforum. Further, the number of short-latency replies was higher during the first lockdown compared to the preceding weeks. Many users who posted in both the online and terrestrial forum contributed at least once to the problem gambling subforum, implying that the topic of problem gambling is widely discussed. Our findings may indicate a shift from terrestrial to online gambling during lockdown, and mirror the general increase in screen time and usage of online platforms after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The analyses help to identify lockdown-related effects on gambling behaviour. These potentially detrimental effects pose a special threat for individuals at risk and may require monitoring and special public health measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Smith
- Department of Psychology, Biological Psychology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Simon Michalski
- Department of Psychology, Biological Psychology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Kilian H K Knauth
- Department of Psychology, Biological Psychology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Kai Kaspar
- Department of Psychology, Social and Media Psychology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Nils Reiter
- Department of Digital Humanities, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jan Peters
- Department of Psychology, Biological Psychology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Abed Alah M, Abdeen S, Kehyayan V, Bougmiza I. The Triple "S" Impact of COVID-19: Nationwide Evidence of the Impact of the Stress Associated With Restrictive Measures on Substance Use, Sleep, and Social Connectedness in Qatar. J Psychiatr Pract 2023; 29:403-414. [PMID: 37678370 PMCID: PMC10478680 DOI: 10.1097/pra.0000000000000737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Countries worldwide implemented social and movement restrictions to contain the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Unfortunately, such restrictions have adversely impacted people's lifestyles. The goal of this study was to assess the impact of COVID-19-related restrictive measures on substance use, sleep, and social connectedness in Qatar's population. METHODS A web-based survey was conducted between January 2021 and February 2021 targeting adults ≥18 years of age who were residing in Qatar between March and August 2020. RESULTS A total of 1408 participants completed the survey. Of tobacco users in our sample, 36% reported increased tobacco use since the start of home confinement, while 41.6% of alcohol users reported decreased alcohol use. Concerning sleep, 46.1% reported an increase in average sleep duration per day (0.77 h mean increase, 95% CI: 0.66-0.88, P<0.001), and a third of participants reported poorer sleep quality. Of the participants, 39.6% felt socially disconnected. Perceived stress was found to be an independent predictor for increased use of tobacco, deterioration in sleep quality, and increased sleep duration during home confinement. CONCLUSIONS Restrictive measures related to COVID-19 resulted in both positive and negative impacts on the lifestyle of Qatar's population. Emphasis should be placed on encouraging people to adopt healthy strategies for coping with various stressors that arise during future home confinement measures. It is also necessary to address the persistence of adverse consequences in the postpandemic era.
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Maguire E, Kavalidou K, Bannan N, Doherty AM, Jeffers A. Substance use and self-harm emergency department presentations during COVID19: evidence from a National Clinical Programme for Self-Harm. Ir J Psychol Med 2023; 40:424-429. [PMID: 35915057 DOI: 10.1017/ipm.2022.36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Given the evidence that drinking patterns and self-harm hospital presentations have changed during COVID-19, this study aimed to examine any change in self-harm and suicide-related ideation presentations, together with any possible contribution made by alcohol or substance misuse, to Irish Emergency Departments in 2020, compared with 2018 and 2019. METHODS A population-based cohort with self-harm and suicide-related ideation presenting to Irish hospitals derived from the National Clinical Programme for Self-Harm was analysed. Descriptive analyses were conducted based on sociodemographic variables and types of presentation for the period January to August 2020 and compared with the same period in 2018 and 2019. Binomial regression analyses were performed to investigate the independent effect of demographic characteristics and pre/during COVID-19 periods on the use of substances as contributory factors in the self-harm and suicide-related ideation presentations. RESULTS 12,075 presentations due to self-harm and suicide-related ideation were recorded for the periods January-August 2018-2020 across nine emergency departments. The COVID-19 year was significantly associated with substances contributing to self-harm and suicide-related ideation ED presentations (OR = 1.183; 95% CI, 1.075-1.301, p < 0.001). No changes in the demographic characteristics were found for those with self-harm or suicide-related ideation across the years. Suicide-related ideation seemed to be increased after May 2020 compared with previous years. In terms of self-harm episodes with comorbid drug and alcohol overdose and poisoning, these were significantly increased in January-August 2020, compared with previous timepoints (χ2 = 42.424, df = 6, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION An increase in suicide-related ideation and substance-related self-harm presentations may indicate longer term effects of the pandemic and its relevant restrictions. Future studies might explore whether those presenting with ideation will develop a risk of suicide in post-pandemic periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Maguire
- Department of Liaison Psychiatry, Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, Ireland
| | - K Kavalidou
- National Clinical Programme for Self-harm and Suicide-related Ideation, HSE, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, WHO Collaborating Centre for Surveillance and Research in Suicide Prevention, Western Gateway Building, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - N Bannan
- Department of Liaison Psychiatry, Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, Ireland
| | - A M Doherty
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Liaison Psychiatry, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, 63 Eccles Street, Dublin 7, Ireland
| | - A Jeffers
- National Clinical Programme for Self-harm and Suicide-related Ideation, HSE, Ireland
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Newport K, Bishop L, Donnan J, Pal S, Najafizada M. The COVID-19 pandemic and cannabis use in Canada-a scoping review. J Cannabis Res 2023; 5:31. [PMID: 37525289 PMCID: PMC10388476 DOI: 10.1186/s42238-023-00196-7] [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: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada, the cannabis industry has adapted to public health emergency orders which had direct and indirect consequences on cannabis consumption. The objective of this scoping review was to describe the patterns of consumption and cannabis-related health and safety considerations during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. METHODS For this scoping review, we searched four electronic databases supplemented with grey literature. Peer-reviewed or pre-print studies using any study design and grey literature reporting real-world data were included if published in English between March 2020 and September 2021 and focused on cannabis and COVID-19 in Canada. A content analysis was performed. RESULTS Twenty-one studies met the inclusion/exclusion criteria. Study designs included cross-sectional surveys (n = 17), ecological study (n = 1), conceptual paper (n = 1), longitudinal study (n = 1), and prospective cohort study (n = 1). Most were conducted solely in Canada (n = 18), and the remaining included global data. Our content analysis suggested that cannabis consumption during the pandemic varied by reasons for use, consumers' age, gender, and method of consumption. Health and safety impacts due to the COVID-19 pandemics included increased mental illness, increased emergency visits, and psychosocial impacts. DISCUSSION This scoping review suggested that the impact of the pandemic on cannabis consumption in Canada is more complex than simplistic assumptions of an increase or decrease in consumption and continues to be difficult to measure. This study has explored some of those complexities in relation to reasons for use, age, gender, method of consumption, and health impacts. This scoping review is limited by focusing on the breadth compared to depth. CONCLUSIONS Legalizing nonmedical use of cannabis in Canada in 2018 has had its challenges of implementation, one of which has been the changing context of the society. The findings of this study can help inform cannabis policy updates in Canada as the country is reaching its fifth year of legalizing nonmedical use of cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelda Newport
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John's, NL, A1B 3V6, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, 300 Prince Phillip Drive, NL, A1B 3V6, St. John's, Canada
| | - Lisa Bishop
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John's, NL, A1B 3V6, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, 300 Prince Phillip Drive, NL, A1B 3V6, St. John's, Canada
| | - Jennifer Donnan
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John's, NL, A1B 3V6, Canada
| | - Shefali Pal
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, 300 Prince Phillip Drive, NL, A1B 3V6, St. John's, Canada
| | - Maisam Najafizada
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, 300 Prince Phillip Drive, NL, A1B 3V6, St. John's, Canada.
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Rahman HH, Akinjobi Z, Gard C, Munson-McGee SH. Sleeping behavior and associated factors during COVID-19 in students at a Hispanic serving institution in the US southwestern border region. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11620. [PMID: 37464098 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38713-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Sleep is responsible for maintenance and regulatory functions in human physiology. Insufficient sleep has been associated with cardiovascular disease, weight gain, obesity, inflammation, and morbidity. University students are at high risk under normal circumstances of stress and anxiety due to extracurricular demands, competing pressures on student time, long study hours, and financial concerns. The COVID 19 pandemic has disrupted normal college students' lives adding stresses such as lost jobs and family responsibilities such as serving as caregivers, which disproportionally affect minority and rural student. This study aimed to assess the correlation of sleep disorders in New Mexico State University students during COVID 19 with selected variates including base demographics (e.g., gender, age, etc.), lifestyle metrics (e.g., employment status, discipline, class, etc.), living arrangements (e.g., housing type, number of children, etc.), alcohol and tobacco use, vaccination status, family COVID status, and family vaccination status. Single- and multi-factor logistic regressions were performed to analyze the data on the students. Qualtrics software was used to collect data on demographics and sleep disorders. R software was used for data analysis. Correlations were found between sleeping less, sleeping more, and disturbed sleep among several covariate categories. For all three responses, being married (sleeping less: OR = 0.342, 95% CI = 0.181-0.642, sleeping more: OR = 0.265, 95% CI = 0.111-0.591; disturbed sleeping: OR = 0.345, 95% CI = 0.182-0.650), frequency of feeling sleepy-very often (OR = 16.87, 95% CI = 6.571-47.434; OR = 8.393, 95% CI = 3.086-25.298; OR = 13.611, 95% CI = 5.409-36.975) and change in diet- quality decreased (OR = 7.304, 95% CI = 3.615-15.270; OR = 5.250, 95% CI = 2.309-12.558; OR = 4.181, 95% CI = 2.145-8.359) were all significant correlated to change in sleeping behavior. Other correlations were found among covariates and sleep changes. Several covariates were determined to be correlated with the effect of COVID-19 on sleeping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Humairat H Rahman
- Department of Public Health Sciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, 88003, USA.
| | - Zainab Akinjobi
- Department of Economics, Applied Statistics and International Business, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, 88003, USA
| | - Charlotte Gard
- Department of Economics, Applied Statistics and International Business, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, 88003, USA
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Braekman E, Charafeddine R, Berete F, Bruggeman H, Drieskens S, Gisle L, Hermans L, Van der Heyden J, Demarest S. Data collection in pandemic times: the case of the Belgian COVID-19 health surveys. Arch Public Health 2023; 81:124. [PMID: 37403166 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-023-01135-x] [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: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Survey data were needed to assess the mental and social health, health related behaviors and compliance with preventive measures of the population during the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, the pandemic challenged classical survey methods. Time and budgetary constraints at the beginning of the pandemic led to ad hoc recruitment of participants and easily manageable data collection modes. This paper describes the methodological choices and results in terms of participation for the COVID-19 health surveys conducted in Belgium. METHODS The COVID-19 health surveys refer to a series of ten non-probability web surveys organized between April 2020 and March 2022. The applied recruitment strategies were diverse including, amongst others, a launch through the website and the social media of the organizing research institute. In addition, the survey links were shared in articles published in the national press and participants were requested to share the surveys in their network. Furthermore, participants were asked consent to be re-contacted for next survey editions using e-mail invitations. RESULTS These mixed approaches allowed to reach a substantial number of participants per edition ranging from 49339 in survey 1 to 13882 in survey 10. In addition, a longitudinal component was created; a large share of the same individuals were followed up over time; 12599 participants completed at least 5 surveys. There were, however, sex, age, educational level and regional differences in participation. Post-stratification weighting on socio-demographic factors was applied to at least partly take this into account. CONCLUSION The COVID-19 health surveys allowed rapid data collection after the onset of the pandemic. Data from these non-probability web surveys had their limitations in terms of representativeness due to self-selection but were an important information source as there were few alternatives. Moreover, by following-up the same individuals over time it was possible to study the effect of the different crisis phases on, amongst others, the mental health. It is important to draw lessons from these experiences: initiatives in order to create a survey infrastructure better equipped for future crises are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Braekman
- Department Epidemiology and public health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Rana Charafeddine
- Department Epidemiology and public health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Finaba Berete
- Department Epidemiology and public health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Helena Bruggeman
- Department Epidemiology and public health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sabine Drieskens
- Department Epidemiology and public health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lydia Gisle
- Department Epidemiology and public health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lize Hermans
- Department Epidemiology and public health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Stefaan Demarest
- Department Epidemiology and public health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
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McNamara CL, Kotzias V, Bambra C, Labonté R, Stuckler D. Have COVID-19 Stimulus Packages Mitigated the Negative Health Impacts of Pandemic-Related Job Losses? A Systematic Review of Global Evidence from the First Year of the Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH AND HEALTH SERVICES 2023; 53:311-322. [PMID: 37272269 PMCID: PMC10243096 DOI: 10.1177/27551938231176374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Social protection can buffer the negative impacts of unemployment on health. Have stimulus packages introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic mitigated potential harms to health from unemployment? We performed a systematic review of the health effects of job loss during the first year of the pandemic. We searched three electronic databases and identified 49 studies for inclusion. Three United States-based studies found that stimulus programs mitigated the impact of job loss on food security and mental health. Furloughs additionally appeared to reduce negative impacts when they were paid. However, despite the implementation of large-scale stimulus packages to reduce economic harms, we observed a clear pattern that job losses were nevertheless significantly associated with negative impacts, particularly on mental health, quality of life, and food security. We also observe suggestive evidence that COVID-related job loss was associated with child maltreatment, worsening dental health, and poor chronic disease outcomes. Overall, although we did find evidence that income-support policies appeared to help protect people from the negative health consequences of pandemic-related job loss, they were not sufficient to fully offset the threats to health. Future research should ascertain how to ensure adequate access to and generosity of social protection programs during epidemics and economic downturns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney L. McNamara
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
- Centre for Global Health Inequalities Research (CHAIN). Department of Sociology and Political Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Virginia Kotzias
- Centre for Global Health Inequalities Research (CHAIN). Department of Sociology and Political Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Clare Bambra
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
- Centre for Global Health Inequalities Research (CHAIN). Department of Sociology and Political Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Ronald Labonté
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - David Stuckler
- Dondena Centre for Research on Social Dynamics and Department of Social & Political Sciences, Bocconi University, Milano, Italy
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Khamees A, Awadi S, Rawashdeh S, Talafha M, Alzoubi M, Almdallal W, al‐Eitan S, Saeed A, Al‐Zoubi RM, Al‐Zoubi MS. The impact of COVID-19 pandemic lockdown on smoking habits and lifestyle: A cross-sectional study. Health Sci Rep 2023; 6:e1392. [PMID: 37396557 PMCID: PMC10314099 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Throughout the COVID-19 lockdown, the resultant psychological disturbances led to more tobacco consumption and deteriorated smoking behaviors among smokers. In this study, we aimed to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the smoking behaviors of the Jordanian population. Methods A cross-sectional online survey was designed using the Google Forms service and distributed by social media platforms. Responses were collected starting from November 12, 2020, until November 24, 2020. Results A total of 2511 respondents completed the survey, 77.3% were females. Males were significantly smoking more than females (p < 0.0001). Smoking was significantly more common among respondents who were older than 18 years old, married, held master's and PhD degrees, and working in non-health-related fields (p < 0.0001). Participants who smoke were more likely to adopt an unhealthy lifestyle during the pandemic. Females who started smoking last year were 2.6-fold more than males (p < 0.0001). We also noticed that there is a significant relationship between those who started smoking and are <18 years, living in a family consisting of seven members or more, being unemployed, having a diploma or bachelor's degree in a health-related major, having no chronic illnesses, increasing of daily meals or night meals, almost daily sugar intake, starting to follow social media account concerning physical activity, exercising once or twice a week, and sleeping more hours per day since the beginning of the pandemic (p < 0.01). Conclusion The results of our study showed that the lockdown had a significant impact on people's lifestyles including smoking habits. Most of our sample's smoker participants experienced a change in their smoking level mostly, an increase. While those who had a decrease in their smoking level experienced a somehow healthier lifestyle regarding nutrition and other aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Almu'atasim Khamees
- Faculty of MedicineYarmouk UniversityIrbidJordan
- Department of SurgeryKing Hussein Cancer CenterAmmanJordan
| | - Sajeda Awadi
- Faculty of MedicineYarmouk UniversityIrbidJordan
| | | | - Muna Talafha
- Faculty of MedicineYarmouk UniversityIrbidJordan
| | - Mai Alzoubi
- Faculty of MedicineYarmouk UniversityIrbidJordan
| | | | | | - Ahmad Saeed
- Faculty of MedicineYarmouk UniversityIrbidJordan
| | - Raed M. Al‐Zoubi
- Surgical Research Section, Department of SurgeryHamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, QU‐HealthQatar UniversityDohaQatar
- Department of ChemistryJordan University of Science and TechnologyIrbidJordan
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Yousufzai SJ, Cole AG, Nonoyama M, Barakat C. Changes in Quantity Measures of Various Forms of Cannabis Consumption among Emerging Adults in Canada in Relation to Policy and Public Health Developments. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6213. [PMID: 37444061 PMCID: PMC10341313 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20136213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Limited research examines changes in quantities of various forms of smoked/vaped cannabis among regular consumers, including emerging adults (EAs; 18 to 29) in Canada. This information is particularly relevant in the current context of emerging cannabis behaviors among EAs related to political amendments (legalization of cannabis), vaping-related lung illnesses (EVALI), and unprecedented pandemics (COVID-19). This study investigated the impact of legalizing recreational cannabis use in Canada, the EVALI epidemic, and the COVID-19 pandemic on the quantity of smoked/vaped forms of cannabis in relation to gender differences. EAs retrospectively self-reported the quantity of herb, hash, concentrates, joint size, and the number of joints and vaping cartridges in relation to three consecutive developments: pre-legalization, post-legalization; pre-EVALI, post-EVALI, pre-COVID-19, and during COVID-19. The quantity of herb use significantly increased among heavy users, and vaping quantity significantly increased among light users. Overall, an increasing incremental trend was observed in the average quantity of cannabis forms used over time. Males consumed higher quantities of all cannabis forms than females. More males than females reported using concentrates (p < 0.05). These findings reveal unique aspects of the amount of various cannabis forms smoked/vaped in relation to gender and provides preliminary evidence of cannabis consumption behaviors in relation to changing social and cultural contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan J. Yousufzai
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, ON L1H 7K4, Canada; (A.G.C.); (M.N.); (C.B.)
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Kassam A, Beder M, Sediqzadah S, Levy M, Ritts M, Maher J, Kirwan N, Law S. Impact of COVID-19 on the lives of people with severe mental illness-front-line community psychiatry workers observation from a provincial survey of assertive community treatment teams in Ontario, Canada. Int J Ment Health Syst 2023; 17:18. [PMID: 37328776 DOI: 10.1186/s13033-023-00585-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Using an online survey distributed to members of the provincial organization that represents the 88 Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) and Flexible ACT teams in Ontario, Canada, this descriptive study relied on the unique vantage points and observations of the front-line community psychiatry workers who maintained contact with patients through outreach and telecommunication during the height of COVID-19. The patients who suffer from serious mental illness (SMI) were uniquely affected by COVID-19 due to the changes, reduction or shut down of many essential clinical and community support services. Thematic and quantitative analyses of the workers' observations highlighted 6 main areas of note, including significant social isolation and loneliness, clinical course deterioration and life disruption, increased hospital and ER use, police and legal contacts, and substance abuse and related deaths. There were also encouraging signs of positive adaptations in terms of independence and resilience. Reflections of these impacts and potential ameliorating approaches are further discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aly Kassam
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michaela Beder
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Unity Health Toronto, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Saadia Sediqzadah
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Unity Health Toronto, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Matthew Levy
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Unity Health Toronto, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Madeleine Ritts
- Department of Psychiatry, Unity Health Toronto, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - John Maher
- Canadian Mental Health Association, Barrie and Ontario Association of ACT and FACT, Barrie, ON, Canada
| | - Nicole Kirwan
- Department of Psychiatry, Unity Health Toronto, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Samuel Law
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, Unity Health Toronto, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Sharma P, Nguyen QA, Kurani S, Holland A, Maradit Kremers H, Pazdernik V, St. Sauver J, Croarkin P, Kamath C, Geske J, Prasad K, Glasgow A, Sangaralingham L, Patten C. Association of socio-demographic characteristics with alcohol use initiation among never users during the COVID-19 pandemic: a longitudinal study. J Public Health (Oxf) 2023; 45:442-449. [PMID: 36194073 PMCID: PMC9619617 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdac099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this longitudinal cohort study, we examined the socio-demographic and psychological predictors of alcohol use initiation during the COVID-19 pandemic in a sample of never alcohol users aged ≥21 prior to COVID-19. METHODS Our study population consisted of 56 930 patients aged ≥21, as of 30 March 2019 were collected from a pre-COVID period of 1 year before 31 March 2020, and during-COVID, a period between 1 April 2020 and 30 March 2021. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were utilized to examine the roles of socio-demographic variables (gender, age, education, Area Deprivation Index and rural residence) changes in anxiety and depression severity as predictors of alcohol use initiation. RESULTS Age, gender, race, ethnicity, education and rural status were significant predictors in multivariable analysis. A subgroup analysis showed neither anxiety nor depression had a significant association with alcohol use initiation. CONCLUSION Women, younger individuals, those living in a rural area and people who smoke cigarettes were more likely to initiate alcohol use during the pandemic. Our study has public health and clinical implications such as the need for targeted alcohol use screening and intervention for vulnerable individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pravesh Sharma
- Behavioral Health Research Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
- Department Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic Health System, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
| | - Quang Anh Nguyen
- Behavioral Health Research Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
- Luther College, Decorah, IA 52101, USA
| | - Shaheen Kurani
- Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
| | - Ashley Holland
- Department Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic Health System, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA
| | | | - Vanessa Pazdernik
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 22902, USA
| | - Jennifer St. Sauver
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 22902, USA
| | - Paul Croarkin
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
| | - Celia Kamath
- Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 22902, USA
| | - Jennifer Geske
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 22902, USA
| | - Kavita Prasad
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Zumbro Valley Health Center, Rochester, MN, 55904, USA
| | - Amy Glasgow
- Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
| | - Lindsey Sangaralingham
- Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
| | - Christi Patten
- Behavioral Health Research Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
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Huang DQ, Terrault NA, Tacke F, Gluud LL, Arrese M, Bugianesi E, Loomba R. Global epidemiology of cirrhosis - aetiology, trends and predictions. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 20:388-398. [PMID: 36977794 PMCID: PMC10043867 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-023-00759-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 145.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Cirrhosis is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in people with chronic liver disease worldwide. In 2019, cirrhosis was associated with 2.4% of global deaths. Owing to the rising prevalence of obesity and increased alcohol consumption on the one hand, and improvements in the management of hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus infections on the other, the epidemiology and burden of cirrhosis are changing. In this Review, we highlight global trends in the epidemiology of cirrhosis, discuss the contributions of various aetiologies of liver disease, examine projections for the burden of cirrhosis, and suggest future directions to tackle this condition. Although viral hepatitis remains the leading cause of cirrhosis worldwide, the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcohol-associated cirrhosis are rising in several regions of the world. The global number of deaths from cirrhosis increased between 2012 and 2017, but age-standardized death rates (ASDRs) declined. However, the ASDR for NAFLD-associated cirrhosis increased over this period, whereas ASDRs for other aetiologies of cirrhosis declined. The number of deaths from cirrhosis is projected to increase in the next decade. For these reasons, greater efforts are required to facilitate primary prevention, early detection and treatment of liver disease, and to improve access to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Q Huang
- NAFLD Research Center, Division of Gastroenterology, University of California at San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Norah A Terrault
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lise Lotte Gluud
- Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marco Arrese
- Departamento de Gastroenterologia, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Centro de Envejecimiento Y Regeneración (CARE), Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Elisabetta Bugianesi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Rohit Loomba
- NAFLD Research Center, Division of Gastroenterology, University of California at San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California at San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.
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Wang H, Cao M, Xi Y, Cao W, Zhang X, Meng X, Zheng D, Wu L, Wang W, Liu D, Wang Y. Externalizing traits: Shared causalities for COVID-19 and Alzheimer's dementia using Mendelian randomization analysis. PNAS NEXUS 2023; 2:pgad198. [PMID: 37361546 PMCID: PMC10287533 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Externalizing traits have been related with the outcomes of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and Alzheimer's dementia (AD); however, whether these associations are causal remains unknown. We used the two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach with more than 200 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for externalizing traits to explore the causal associations of externalizing traits with the risk of COVID-19 (infected COVID-19, hospitalized COVID-19, and severe COVID-19) or AD based on the summary data. The inverse variance-weighted method (IVW) was used to estimate the main effect, followed by several sensitivity analyses. IVW analysis showed significant associations of externalizing traits with COVID-19 infection (odds ratio [OR] = 1.456, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] = 1.224-1.731), hospitalized COVID-19 (OR = 1.970, 95% CI = 1.374-2.826), and AD (OR = 1.077, 95% CI = 1.037-1.119). The results were consistent using weighted median (WM), penalized weighted median (PWM), MR-robust adjusted profile score (MR-RAPS), and leave-one-out sensitivity analyses. Our findings assist in exploring the causal effect of externalizing traits on the pathophysiology of infection and severe infection of COVID-19 and AD. Furthermore, our study provides evidence that shared externalizing traits underpin the two diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yingjun Xi
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders & Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100088, China
| | - Weijie Cao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Xiaoni Meng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Deqiang Zheng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Lijuan Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Wei Wang
- To whom correspondence should be addressed: ; ;
| | - Di Liu
- To whom correspondence should be addressed: ; ;
| | - Youxin Wang
- To whom correspondence should be addressed: ; ;
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Malta DC, Gomes CS, Vasconcelos NMD, Alves FTA, Ferreira APDS, Barros MBDA, Lima MG, Szwarcwald CL. Smoking among Brazilian adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study. SAO PAULO MED J 2023; 141:e2022424. [PMID: 37255064 DOI: 10.1590/1516-3180.2022.0424.r1.30032023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The social distancing measures during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic resulted in mental suffering among adolescents, leading to risky consumption of psychoactive substances such as tobacco. OBJECTIVE To analyze the factors associated with tobacco use among adolescents during the COVID-19 social distancing period in Brazil. DESIGN AND SETTING Cross-sectional study used data from ConVid Adolescentes survey in Brazil. METHODS Tobacco use was assessed before and during social distancing. The explanatory variables investigated were sex, age, race/skin color, type of school, maternal education, region of residence, adherence to social restriction measures, number of close friends, sleep quality during the pandemic, mood, passive smoking, use of alcoholic beverages during the pandemic, sedentary behavior, and physical activity. A logistic regression model was used for the data analysis. RESULTS Tobacco use by adolescents did not change during the pandemic (from 2.58% to 2.41%). There was a higher chance of tobacco use among adolescents aged between 16 and 17 years, self-reported black ones, residing in the South and Southeast regions, reported feeling sad and loneliness, had sleeping problems that worsened, were using alcoholic beverages during the pandemic, and were passive smokers at home. Adolescents whose mothers had completed high school or higher, had strict social restrictions, and increased their physical activity during the pandemic had a lower chance of tobacco use. CONCLUSION Tobacco uses during the COVID-19 pandemic was higher in vulnerable groups, such as black adolescents and those with mental suffering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Carvalho Malta
- PhD. Physician and Associated Professor, Department of Maternal and Child Nursing and Public Health, Faculty of Nursing, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte (MG), Brazil
| | - Crizian Saar Gomes
- PhD. Nutritionist and Post-doctoral Student, Postgraduate Program in Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte (MG), Brazil
| | - Nádia Machado de Vasconcelos
- MSc. Physician and Doctoral Student, Postgraduate Program in Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte (MG), Brazil
| | | | - Arthur Pate de Souza Ferreira
- PhD. Researcher, Department of Epidemiology and Quantitative Methods in Health, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro (RJ), Brazil
| | - Marilisa Berti de Azevedo Barros
- PhD. Physician and Full Professor, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas (SP), Brazil
| | - Margareth Guimarães Lima
- PhD. Researcher, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas (SP), Brazil
| | - Celia Landmann Szwarcwald
- PhD. Senior Researcher, Laboratório de Informação e Saúde (LIS), Instituto de Comunicação e Informação Científica e Tecnológica em Saúde (ICICT), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro (RJ), Brazil
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Benameur T, Kaliyadan F, Saidi N, Porro C. A Retrospective Chart Review Evaluating Changes in 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Levels among Patients Attending the University Healthcare Centre during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Nutrients 2023; 15:2345. [PMID: 37242228 PMCID: PMC10223421 DOI: 10.3390/nu15102345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19-pandemic-related home confinement aids in limiting the spread of the virus but restricts exposure to sunlight, thereby possibly affecting 25(OH)D concentrations. This study aimed to investigate the effect of lockdown measures on 25(OH)D levels in outpatients visiting the healthcare centre over a period of two years. In this retrospective chart review, outpatients who visited a university healthcare centre for a health check-up over a period of two years were included. The patients' 25(OH)D serum levels and status were compared before, during, and after the lockdown periods. A total of 7234 patients were included in this study, with a mean age of 34.66 ± 16.78. The overall prevalence of 25(OH)D insufficiency, deficiency and sufficiency was 33.8%, 30.7% and 35.4%, respectively. The proportion of individuals with 25-(OH) D deficiency prior to lockdown was 29% and this proportion increased in the lockdown and post-lockdown periods to 31.1% and 32%, respectively. Although gender was less likely to have an impact on the 25 (OH) D level during the lockdown period (p = 0.630), we found an association between gender and 25 (OH) D status in the pre-lockdown and post-lockdown periods (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). Another association between nationality and 25 (OH)D levels was found before, during and after the lockdown periods (p < 0.001). In addition, the youngest population, aged between 1 and 14, was strongly affected by the home confinement. Age had a positive and significant (p < 0.05) effect on 25 (OH) D status regardless of the different periods. Moreover, in the pre-lockdown period, male outpatients had 1.56 chance of having a sufficient level of 25 (OH)D. However, during the lockdown period, this chance decreased to 0.85 and then increased to 0.99 after the lockdown period. We found no statistically significant difference in the mean serum concentrations or in the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency when we compared values from before, during and immediately after the COVID-19 lockdown period. However, there was a generally increased prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in our study population. Another association between gender, nationality and age groups with 25(OH) D was found. Regular exposure to UVR is recommended for maintaining adequate vitamin D levels and to prevent vitamin D deficiency. Further research is needed to determine the best indications for vitamin D supplementation if confinement periods are extended and to consider the potential health consequences of prolonged confinement periods not only on vitamin D status but also on overall public health. The findings of this study may be considered by stakeholders for a targeted supplementation approach for risk groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarek Benameur
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Feroze Kaliyadan
- Sree Narayana Institute of Medical Sciences, Kerala University of Health Sciences, Thrissur 683594, India
| | - Neji Saidi
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, College of Sciences, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Chiara Porro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71121 Foggia, Italy
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Srinagesh A, Forthal S, Madden SP, Stein LAR, Muench F. Impacts of COVID-19 on alcohol use among help-seeking adults. ADVANCES IN DRUG AND ALCOHOL RESEARCH 2023; 3:11159. [PMID: 38389810 PMCID: PMC10880767 DOI: 10.3389/adar.2023.11159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has been associated with both increased and decreased alcohol use. Authors explored reasons for increased and decreased alcohol use since the COVID-19 lockdown (March 2020) in a sample of help-seeking adults (HSA) participating in a remote-based alcohol reduction text-messaging intervention in the USA. At the time of recruitment, the HSA in this study were interested in reducing rather than stopping their alcohol consumption. An optional self-report questionnaire was completed by 324 participants (mean age 41.6 ± 10.2 years; 71.5% female; 83.9% White) in February 2021. Survey questions assessed sociodemographic factors, social stressors (quarantine conditions, employment status, changes to daily routine), and drinking patterns. Authors fit two ordinal logistic regression models: one for increased drinking and one for decreased drinking, as functions of the potential predictors and control variables. Most participants (n = 281; 87.0%) reported drinking more than usual since COVID-19 lockdown began. The most common self-reported reasons for drinking more were increased stress/anxiety (74.7%), boredom (69.4%), and spending more time at home (65.5%) whereas reasons for drinking less were less socializing (33.7%) and worrying about how alcohol would impact the immune system (31.5%). Identifying as female, severity of changes to daily routine, and increased access to alcohol were significantly associated with drinking more than usual. These data suggest that the general consequences of the pandemic in the general population (e.g., boredom) led to greater alcohol use among help-seeking adults attempting to reduce their drinking. Identifying these factors may help create more targeted interventions during public health crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aradhana Srinagesh
- Department of Psychology, University of Rhode Island, South Kingston, RI, United States
| | - Sarah Forthal
- Partnership to End Addiction, New York, NY, United States
| | - Sean P Madden
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States
| | - L A R Stein
- Department of Psychology, University of Rhode Island, South Kingston, RI, United States
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Eren MA, Gönel A, Karaaslan H, Uyar N, Cindoğlu Ç, Sabuncu T. Effects of COVID-19 pandemic lockdown on the metabolic control of type 2 diabetes mellitus in patients. ARCHIVES OF ENDOCRINOLOGY AND METABOLISM 2023; 67:e000621. [PMID: 37252703 PMCID: PMC10665077 DOI: 10.20945/2359-3997000000621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Objective The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the control of diabetes mellitus in patients are largely unknown. In this study we aimed to analyze the impact of the pandemic and the ensuing lockdown on the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Subjects and methods A total of 7,321patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (4,501 from the pre-pandemic period, 2,820 from the post-pandemic period) were studied retrospectively. Results The admission of patients with diabetes melitus (DM) decreased significantly during the pandemic (4,501 pre-pandemic vs. 2,820 post-pandemic; p < 0.001). The mean age of patients was statistically lower (51.5 ± 14.0 vs. 49.7 ± 14.5 years; p < 0.001), and the mean glycated hemoglobin (A1c) level was significantly higher (7.9% ± 2.4% vs. 7.3% ± 1.7%; p < 0.001) in the post-pandemic period than in the pre-pandemic. The female/male ratio was similar in both periods (59.9%/40.1% for pre-pandemic, 58.6%/41.4% for post-pandemic; p = 0.304). As calculated by month the pre-pandemic rate of women was higher only in January (53.1% vs. 60.6%, p = 0.02). Mean A1c levels were higher in the postpandemic period than in the same month of the previous year, excluding July and October (p = 0.001 for November, p < 0.001 for others). Postpandemic patients admitted to the outpatient clinic were significantly younger than prepandemic visits for July (p = 0.001), August (p < 0.001) and December (p < 0.001). Conclusion The lockdown had detrimental effects on blood sugar management in patients with DM. Hence, diet and exercise programs should be adapted to home conditions, and social and psychological support should be provided to patients with DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Ali Eren
- Harran University, School of Medicine, Department of Endocrinology, Sanliurfa, Turkey
| | - Ataman Gönel
- Harran University, School of Medicine, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sanliurfa, Turkey
| | - Hüseyin Karaaslan
- Harran University, School of Medicine, Department of Endocrinology, Sanliurfa, Turkey
| | - Nida Uyar
- Harran University, School of Medicine, Department of Endocrinology, Sanliurfa, Turkey,
| | - Çiğdem Cindoğlu
- Harran University, School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Sanliurfa, Turkey
| | - Tevfik Sabuncu
- Harran University, School of Medicine, Department of Endocrinology, Sanliurfa, Turkey
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Bakaloudi DR, Evripidou K, Siargkas A, Breda J, Chourdakis M. Impact of COVID-19 lockdown on smoking and vaping: systematic review and meta-analysis. Public Health 2023; 218:160-172. [PMID: 37043948 PMCID: PMC9939396 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2023.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES COVID-19 and the implementation of lockdowns have impacted daily lives worldwide. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the impact of lockdowns on the smoking and vaping behaviours of adults during the pandemic. STUDY DESIGN This was a systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted up to 28 April 2022 in the following databases: PubMed, Embase and Web of Science. RESULTS In total, 77 studies met the inclusion criteria for this review. In 34 studies, an increase in smoking behaviour was reported for the majority of participants; however, in 21 and 18 studies, 'no change' and 'decrease' in smoking were the predominant responses, respectively. The results from the meta-analysis, which examined the change in the number of cigarettes smoked per day, showed no difference between the pre- and post-lockdown periods: 0.81 weighted mean difference (95% confidence interval, -0.59 to 2.21). Regarding vaping, three of seven studies reported an increase in smoking for the majority of participants, whereas 'no change' and 'decrease' were the predominant answers in the other four studies. CONCLUSIONS The results show that lockdowns led most participants to increase smoking/vaping, whereas a decrease or cessation of smoking/vaping was only reported in the minority of participants. Attention should be given to the non-communicable diseases that could arise as a result of the increase in smoking/vaping during lockdowns, and further research in this area is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitra Rafailia Bakaloudi
- Laboratory of Hygiene, Social & Preventive Medicine and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece; Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kleo Evripidou
- Laboratory of Hygiene, Social & Preventive Medicine and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Antonios Siargkas
- Laboratory of Hygiene, Social & Preventive Medicine and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Joao Breda
- WHO Athens Quality of Care Office, Athens, Greece
| | - Michail Chourdakis
- Laboratory of Hygiene, Social & Preventive Medicine and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece.
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Sharma N, Chopra M, Bauld L, Nazar GP, Joshi N, Chugh A, Mohan S, Mohan D, Ali MK, Mohan V, Tandon N, Venkat Narayan KM, Srinath Reddy K, Prabhakaran D, Arora M. Impact of a tobacco sales ban on the frequency of tobacco consumption in India during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tob Induc Dis 2023; 21:51. [PMID: 37123348 PMCID: PMC10141826 DOI: 10.18332/tid/161855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Measures to address the COVID-19 pandemic in India included a ban on the sale and use of tobacco products during 2020 when stay at home guidance (lockdown) was in place. In this study we examined the extent of reduction in frequency of tobacco consumption across all products. METHODS Telephone survey was conducted between July and August 2020 across an existing cohort of tobacco users (n=801) residing in Delhi (55.4%) and Chennai (44.6%), India. The participants were recruited irrespective of their gender and use of any kind of tobacco product(s). The survey questionnaire was based on the STOP (Studying Tobacco users Of Pakistan) survey and adapted to the context of smoking and smokeless tobacco use in India. RESULTS Cigarette consumption declined from a median value of 5.0 (IQR: 2-10) sticks in the pre-lockdown period to 2.0 (IQR: 0.4-5) sticks during the lockdown period. Reductions were reported in the daily use of bidis, from 8 (IQR: 4-12) sticks to 5 (IQR: 2-10) sticks and for smokeless tobacco users from 3.5 (IQR: 2-5) packs to 2 (IQR: 1-4) packs during the lockdown. Furthermore, the number of daily cigarette smokers in our cohort decreased from 32.6% (n=261) in the pre-lockdown period to 27.5% (n=220) during lockdown and smokeless tobacco users decreased from 35.8% (n=287) in pre-lockdown period to 30.3% (n=243) during the lockdown period. CONCLUSIONS The decrease in tobacco use can be attributed to various societal and environmental factors. However, the pandemic-linked lockdown provided an opportune condition to reduce the use of tobacco products, which could be due to restricted access and increase in health awareness during the COVID-19 lockdown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nitika Sharma
- Health Related Information Dissemination Amongst Youth, New Delhi, India
| | - Mansi Chopra
- Health Related Information Dissemination Amongst Youth, New Delhi, India
| | - Linda Bauld
- Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- SPECTRUM Consortium, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Gaurang P. Nazar
- Health Related Information Dissemination Amongst Youth, New Delhi, India
- Public Health Foundation of India, Gurugram, India
| | - Nishigandha Joshi
- Health Related Information Dissemination Amongst Youth, New Delhi, India
| | - Aastha Chugh
- Health Related Information Dissemination Amongst Youth, New Delhi, India
| | - Sailesh Mohan
- Public Health Foundation of India, Gurugram, India
- Centre for Chronic Disease Control, New Delhi, India
| | - Deepa Mohan
- Madras Diabetes Research Foundation, Chennai, India
| | - Mohammed K. Ali
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, United States
- Emory Global Diabetes Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, United States
| | | | - Nikhil Tandon
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - K. M. Venkat Narayan
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, United States
- Emory Global Diabetes Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, United States
| | | | | | - Monika Arora
- Health Related Information Dissemination Amongst Youth, New Delhi, India
- Public Health Foundation of India, Gurugram, India
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Is There a Reduction in Chemsex Practice in Men Who Have Sex With Men During COVID-19 Lockdown? Results of the CheRRLock Study. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 92:378-384. [PMID: 36562613 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Chemsex is a growing concern among men who have sex with men (MSM). COVID-19 lockdowns have had consequences on social and sexual interactions. We aimed to assess changes in chemsex practices during COVID-19 lockdown in France among MSM and factors associated with maintaining or increasing chemsex practice. METHODS Repeated face-to-face questionnaires were conducted at "Le 190" Sexual Health Center, Paris, France, exploring lifestyle, sexual, and chemsex practices, COVID-19 concerns and mental health before and during second lockdown in France (30/10/2020-15/12/2020). Inclusion criteria were chemsex practices at least 3 times throughout lifetime and at least once in the 3 months before second lockdown. The primary end point was the proportion of participants who declared having stopped, decreased, maintained, or increased their chemsex practice during lockdown. Univariable and multivariable logistic regressions were used to analyze factors associated with evolutions of chemsex practice. RESULTS Ninety-three MSM were included: 66% HIV-positive and 30% taking PrEP. Drugs most used were cathinones (91%) and GHB/GBL (52%). Participants reported stopping, decreasing, maintaining, and increasing chemsex drugs use in 14%, 22%, 22%, and 42% of cases, respectively. Despite this overall increase in chemsex practice, MSM decreased their number of sexual partners. Factors significantly associated with maintaining or increasing chemsex drugs use were feeling lonely (OR = 3.24), craving (OR = 4.51), and working during lockdown (OR = 3.27), contrasting with fear of COVID-19 (OR = 0.31). CONCLUSION Restriction measures lead to changes in sexual behavior and seem to increase chemsex practice. Maintaining care for most isolated patients should be a priority in COVID-19 context.
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Accelerated intermittent theta burst stimulation in smoking cessation: No differences between active and placebo stimulation when using advanced placebo coil technology. A double-blind follow-up study. Int J Clin Health Psychol 2023; 23:100351. [PMID: 36415606 PMCID: PMC9663325 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijchp.2022.100351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aims to investigate the longer-term effects of accelerated intermittent theta burst stimulation (aiTBS) in smoking cessation and to examine whether there is a difference in outcome between active and placebo stimulation. The present study constitutes an ancillary study from a main Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) evaluating the acute effects of aiTBS in smoking reduction. Method A double-blind randomized control trial was conducted where 89 participants were randomly allocated to three groups (transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)&N group: active aiTBS stimulation combined with neutral videos; TMS&S group: active aiTBS stimulation combined with smoking-related videos; Placebo group: placebo stimulation combined with smoking-related videos). Nicotine dependence, tobacco craving, perceived stress and motivation to quit smoking were measured after completion of 20 aiTBS sessions and during various follow ups (post one week, post one month and post six months). Results Our results show that the positive effect on nicotine dependence and tobacco craving that occurred at the end of treatment lasts at least one month post treatment. This effect seems to dissipate six months post treatment. No significant differences were found between the three groups. Conclusion Both active and placebo stimulation were equally effective in reducing nicotine dependence and tobacco craving up to one month after the end of treatment.
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ÓhAiseadha C, Quinn GA, Connolly R, Wilson A, Connolly M, Soon W, Hynds P. Unintended Consequences of COVID-19 Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions (NPIs) for Population Health and Health Inequalities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5223. [PMID: 37047846 PMCID: PMC10094123 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20075223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, governments around the world have adopted an array of measures intended to control the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, using both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs). NPIs are public health interventions that do not rely on vaccines or medicines and include policies such as lockdowns, stay-at-home orders, school closures, and travel restrictions. Although the intention was to slow viral transmission, emerging research indicates that these NPIs have also had unintended consequences for other aspects of public health. Hence, we conducted a narrative review of studies investigating these unintended consequences of NPIs, with a particular emphasis on mental health and on lifestyle risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCD): physical activity (PA), overweight and obesity, alcohol consumption, and tobacco smoking. We reviewed the scientific literature using combinations of search terms such as 'COVID-19', 'pandemic', 'lockdowns', 'mental health', 'physical activity', and 'obesity'. NPIs were found to have considerable adverse consequences for mental health, physical activity, and overweight and obesity. The impacts on alcohol and tobacco consumption varied greatly within and between studies. The variability in consequences for different groups implies increased health inequalities by age, sex/gender, socioeconomic status, pre-existing lifestyle, and place of residence. In conclusion, a proper assessment of the use of NPIs in attempts to control the spread of the pandemic should be weighed against the potential adverse impacts on other aspects of public health. Our findings should also be of relevance for future pandemic preparedness and pandemic response teams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coilín ÓhAiseadha
- Department of Public Health, Health Service Executive, D08 W2A8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gerry A. Quinn
- Centre for Molecular Biosciences, Ulster University, Coleraine BT52 1SA, UK
| | - Ronan Connolly
- Independent Scientist, D08 Dublin, Ireland
- Center for Environmental Research and Earth Sciences (CERES), Salem, MA 01970, USA
| | - Awwad Wilson
- National Drug Treatment Centre, Health Service Executive, D02 NY26 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Michael Connolly
- Independent Scientist, D08 Dublin, Ireland
- Center for Environmental Research and Earth Sciences (CERES), Salem, MA 01970, USA
| | - Willie Soon
- Center for Environmental Research and Earth Sciences (CERES), Salem, MA 01970, USA
- Institute of Earth Physics and Space Science (ELKH EPSS), H-9400 Sopron, Hungary
| | - Paul Hynds
- SpatioTemporal Environmental Epidemiology Research (STEER) Group, Environmental Sustainability & Health Institute, Technological University, D07 H6K8 Dublin, Ireland
- Irish Centre for Research in Applied Geoscience, University College Dublin, D02 FX65 Dublin, Ireland
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Mapanga W, Craig A, Mtintsilana A, Dlamini SN, Du Toit J, Ware LJ, Norris SA. The Effects of COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdowns on Alcohol Consumption and Tobacco Smoking Behaviour in South Africa: A National Survey. Eur Addict Res 2023; 29:127-140. [PMID: 36934716 PMCID: PMC10627113 DOI: 10.1159/000528484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 03/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION During the first phase of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic lockdowns in South Africa (SA), both alcohol and tobacco were considered non-essential goods and their sales were initially prohibited and further restricted to certain days and timeframes. This study investigates self-reported changes in alcohol consumption and tobacco smoking behaviour in the general population during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns in SA. METHODS A cross-sectional national survey was conducted in October 2021 (before the Omicron wave 4 and while SA was in low-level lockdown) among 3,402 nationally representative respondents (weighted to 39,640,674) aged 18 years and older. Alcohol consumption and tobacco use were assessed from the beginning of the lockdown towards the end of March 2020 until October 2021 using the WHO-AUDIT and the US Centre for Disease Control (CDC) Global Adult Tobacco Survey questionnaires, respectively. RESULTS Among those that drank alcohol (33.2%), 31.4% were classified as having a drinking problem that could be hazardous or harmful and 18.9% had severe alcohol use disorder during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Twenty-two per cent (22.0%) of those that reported alcohol consumption reported that the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns changed their alcohol consumption habits, with 38.1% reporting a decreased intake or quitting altogether. Among the one in five respondents (19.2%) who had ever smoked, most reported smoking at the time of the survey (82.6%) with many classified as light smokers (87.8%; ≤10 cigarettes/day). Almost a third (27.2%) of those smoking reported that the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns had changed their use of tobacco products or vaping, with 60.0% reporting a reduction/quitting tobacco use. Given that sales were restricted this indicates that people could still get hold of tobacco products. Heavy smoking was associated with older age (p = 0.02), those classified as wealthy (p < 0.001), those who started or increased tobacco smoking during the pandemic lockdowns (p = 0.01) and residential provinces (p = 0.04). CONCLUSION Given restrictions on the sale of alcohol and tobacco in SA between 27 March and August 17, 2020, during the pandemic, respondents reported an overall decline in alcohol consumption and tobacco use which might suggest that the regulatory restrictive strategies on sales had some effect but may be inadequate, especially during times where individuals are likely to experience high-stress levels. These changes in alcohol consumption and tobacco use were different from what was reported in several European countries, possibly due to differences in the restrictions imposed in SA when compared to these European countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Witness Mapanga
- SAMRC/Wits Developmental Pathways to Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of the Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Strengthening Oncology Services Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ashleigh Craig
- SAMRC/Wits Developmental Pathways to Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of the Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Asanda Mtintsilana
- SAMRC/Wits Developmental Pathways to Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of the Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Siphiwe N. Dlamini
- SAMRC/Wits Developmental Pathways to Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of the Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Justin Du Toit
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Human Development, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lisa J. Ware
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Human Development, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Shane A. Norris
- SAMRC/Wits Developmental Pathways to Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of the Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Human Development, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Global Health Research Institute, School of Human Development and Health, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Perez RF, Conner KE, Erickson MA, Nabatanzi M, Huffman KJ. Alcohol and lactation: Developmental deficits in a mouse model. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1147274. [PMID: 36992847 PMCID: PMC10040541 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1147274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
It is well documented that prenatal ethanol exposure via maternal consumption of alcohol during pregnancy alters brain and behavioral development in offspring. Thus, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) advises against maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy. However, little emphasis has been placed on educating new parents about alcohol consumption while breastfeeding. This is partly due to a paucity of research on lactational ethanol exposure (LEE) effects in children; although, it has been shown that infants exposed to ethanol via breast milk frequently present with reduced body mass, low verbal IQ scores, and altered sleeping patterns. As approximately 36% of breastfeeding mothers in the US consume alcohol, continued research in this area is critical. Our study employed a novel murine LEE model, where offspring were exposed to ethanol via nursing from postnatal day (P) 6 through P20, a period correlated with infancy in humans. Compared to controls, LEE mice had reduced body weights and neocortical lengths at P20 and P30. Brain weights were also reduced in both ages in males, and at P20 for females, however, female brain weights recovered to control levels by P30. We investigated neocortical features and found that frontal cortex thickness was reduced in LEE males compared to controls. Analyses of dendritic spines in the prelimbic subdivision of medial prefrontal cortex revealed a trend of reduced densities in LEE mice. Results of behavioral tests suggest that LEE mice engage in higher risk-taking behavior, show abnormal stress regulation, and exhibit increased hyperactivity. In summary, our data describe potential adverse brain and behavioral developmental outcomes due to LEE. Thus, women should be advised to refrain from consuming alcohol during breastfeeding until additional research can better guide recommendations of safe maternal practices in early infancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto F. Perez
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Kathleen E. Conner
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Michael A. Erickson
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Mirembe Nabatanzi
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Kelly J. Huffman
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Kelly J. Huffman,
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Wharton MK, Islam S, Abadi MH, Pokhrel P, Lipperman-Kreda S. COVID-19 Restrictions and Adolescent Cigarette and E-cigarette Use in California. Am J Prev Med 2023; 64:385-392. [PMID: 36347663 PMCID: PMC9636984 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2022.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Shelter-in-place orders altered facilitators and barriers to tobacco use (e.g., outlet closures, restricted social gatherings). This study examined whether the duration of time in shelter in place and compliance with different shelter-in-place orders influenced adolescent cigarette and E-cigarette use and how the use may differ by demographic characteristics. METHODS Shelter-in-place policy data obtained from government websites were merged with cross-sectional 2020 survey data on adolescents in California. Treatment variables included the proportion of time in shelter in place and self-reported compliance with shelter-in-place orders (for essential businesses and retail spaces and social and outdoor contexts). Multilevel logit models for dichotomous past 6-month cigarette and E-cigarette use and multilevel negative binomial regression models for past 6-month frequency of use were used. Moderation analyses were conducted on demographic measures. The sample included 1,196 adolescents (mean age=15.8 years, age range=13-19 years, 49.2% female, 50.0% White). Analyses were conducted in 2022. RESULTS No associations were found between the proportion of time in shelter in place and outcomes. Shelter-in-place compliance with essential business and retail space orders was associated with lower odds of using cigarettes and E-cigarettes in the past 6 months. Compliance with social and outdoor context-related orders were associated with lower odds of using E-cigarettes and fewer days using cigarettes and E-cigarettes. Being aged ≥18 years moderated the associations between essential business/retail space and social/outdoor context-related shelter-in-place compliance orders and past 6-month frequency of cigarette smoking. CONCLUSIONS Findings support tailored interventions for less compliant and older adolescents for future pandemic mitigation measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kristina Wharton
- Prevention Research Center, Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Berkeley, California; School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California.
| | - Sabrina Islam
- Prevention Research Center, Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Berkeley, California; School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California
| | - Melissa H Abadi
- Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Pallav Pokhrel
- University of Hawai'i Cancer Center, University of Hawai'i, Honolulu, Hawaii
| | - Sharon Lipperman-Kreda
- Prevention Research Center, Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Berkeley, California
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