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Lein A, Brkic F, Liu DT, Haas M, Salkic A, Ibrisevic A, Uscuplic S, Harcinovic A, Thurner T, Brkic FF. Changes in management of head and neck malignancies during the COVID-19 pandemic. ACTA OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGICA ITALICA : ORGANO UFFICIALE DELLA SOCIETA ITALIANA DI OTORINOLARINGOLOGIA E CHIRURGIA CERVICO-FACCIALE 2024; 44:169-175. [PMID: 38712519 PMCID: PMC11166219 DOI: 10.14639/0392-100x-n2779] [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: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Objective Despite multiple studies from high-income countries, reports from low- and middle-income countries on the impact of COVID-19 on head and neck cancer care remain sparse. This study aimed to assess the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on head and neck cancer patients at a tertiary reference centre in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Methods We included 228 patients with malignant head and neck tumours evaluated and treated between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2021. Patient demographics, histological characteristics, and treatment modalities were retrospectively obtained and compared between the pre-pandemic period (pre-COVID-19 group) and the period after the implementation of COVID-19 restrictive measures (COVID-19 group). Results Patients were significantly older during the COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, 63 patients (44.7%) were under 65 and 78 (55.3%) were 65 or older, while in the pre-COVID-19 period, 53 patients (60.9%) were under 65 and 34 (39.1%) were 65 or older (p = 0.017). The pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19 groups did not significantly differ regarding other patient- and tumour characteristics, or primary treatment modalities. Conclusions During the COVID-19 pandemic, significantly fewer patients were under 65 at the time of initial work-up, potentially reflecting the more enhanced disease-related anxiety of the younger population. Future studies are warranted to address this population's specific educational and psychological needs to ensure appropriate cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Lein
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Fuad Brkic
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Clinical Center Tuzla, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - David T. Liu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Markus Haas
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Almir Salkic
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Clinical Center Tuzla, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Azra Ibrisevic
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Clinical Center Tuzla, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Sabrina Uscuplic
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Clinical Center Tuzla, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Alen Harcinovic
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Clinical Center Tuzla, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Thomas Thurner
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Faris F. Brkic
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Cardenas Soriano P, Rodriguez-Blazquez C, Forjaz MJ, Ayala A, Fernandez-Mayoralas G, Rojo-Perez F, Sanchez-Gonzalez D, Rodriguez-Rodriguez V. Associated factors for fear of COVID-19 scale in long-term care settings in Spain. Geriatr Nurs 2024; 56:167-172. [PMID: 38354659 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2024.02.009] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the relationship between the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) score and sociodemographic, health, emotional and behavioural factors, in a cross-sectional observational study in 447 older adults living in long-term care (LTC) settings in Madrid (Spain). METHODS The sample was stratified by nursing home ownership, geographical location, and size. Multiple linear regression analysis was used using backward elimination to identify factors that explained associations with fear, and logistic regression models were used to examine its role as a predictor of adherence to preventive measures. RESULTS The mean age of the participants was 83.8 years, most were female, had had COVID-19, and were worried about the pandemic. The average score of the FCV-19S was 18.36 (SD: 8.28; range: 7-35), and the variables associated in the multiple linear regression model (explained variance: 34.00%) were being female, lower level of education, satisfaction with life and the residential home, and higher worry about the pandemic. The logistic regression models showed that fear of COVID-19 was a predictor of adherence to preventive measures like wearing facemasks, washing hands, and avoiding physical contact. CONCLUSIONS fear of COVID-19 was significantly related with sex and subjective factors as life satisfaction and worry; and it influences older people's preventive behaviour. Interventions aimed at reducing fear and promoting adherence to preventive measures would improve their mental health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Cardenas Soriano
- Preventive Medicine Unit, Alcorcón Foundation University Hospital, Alcorcón, Spain; Escuela Internacional de Doctorado, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Rodriguez-Blazquez
- National Centre of Epidemiology and Network Centre for Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Maria João Forjaz
- National Centre of Epidemiology and Health Service Research Network on Chronic Diseases (REDISSEC) and Research Network on Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alba Ayala
- Department of Statistics, University Carlos III of Madrid, and Health Service Research Network on Chronic Diseases (REDISSEC), Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Fermina Rojo-Perez
- Grupo de Investigacion sobre Envejecimiento (GIE-CSIC), IEGD, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Diego Sanchez-Gonzalez
- Department of Geography, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), Madrid, Spain
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Ziapour A, Lebni JY, Mohammadkhah F, Chaboksavar F, Janjani P, Yıldırım M. Challenging experiences of the elderly with heart failure in the COVID-19 pandemic: a phenomenological study in Iran. BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:834. [PMID: 38082444 PMCID: PMC10712086 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-04568-9] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with heart failure (HF), especially the elderly, faced many challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, which need to be explored. The present study aimed to analyse the challenging experiences facing the elderly with heart failure during the pandemic in Iran. To achieve this aim, a qualitative approach to research was employed. METHODS The present qualitative research employed a phenomenological approach to study 12 elderly with heart failure visiting Imam Ali Hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic in Kermanshah, Iran. The data collection occurred between August 5, 2022, and November 21, 2022. The participants were selected through a purposive sampling method and interviewed using a semi-structured interview. MAXQDA10 software was used for data organisation and the Colizzi analytical technique for data analysis. Guba and Lincoln's criteria were also used to evaluate the trustworthiness of the qualitative research. RESULTS A total of two categories, 8 subcategories, and 110 primary codes were extracted from the data. The two categories were challenges and coping strategies. The former included the sub-categories of economic issues, fear, anxiety, and fear of death; limited access to health care; quarantine issues; disruption of family life; and medication non-adherence. The subcategories of the latter were faith in God, social support, and self-care behaviors. CONCLUSIONS The present study revealed the challenges experienced and the coping strategies employed by elderly patients with heart failure during the pandemic in Iran. A knowledge of these challenges and experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic can raise healthcare workers' awareness of the elderly patients' strategies used to cope with the virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arash Ziapour
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Health Institute, Imam-Ali Hospital, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Javad Yoosefi Lebni
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mohammadkhah
- Nursing Care Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, I.R. of Iran
| | - Fakhreddin Chaboksavar
- Nursing Care Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, I.R. of Iran
| | - Parisa Janjani
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Health Institute, Imam-Ali Hospital, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | - Murat Yıldırım
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Science and Letters, Agri Ibrahim Cecen University, Ağrı, Türkiye, Turkey
- Graduate Studies and Research, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
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Mohd Salleh Sahimi H, Midin M, Lim JTY, Anwar MWA, Abdul Samad FD, Mohamad Kamal NA. An elderly patient with depression and a suicide attempt during the COVID-19 pandemic: a case report. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1151482. [PMID: 37840789 PMCID: PMC10568006 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1151482] [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: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Elderly individuals are among the age groups with the highest risk of suicide. The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic forced isolation and resulted in an increased risk of depression, hopelessness, and perceived burdensomeness among the elderly, thereby increasing the risk of suicide. Methods This is a case report of an elderly single retired school principal with obsessive-compulsive personality traits who developed depression with psychotic symptoms after being isolated following the movement control order (MCO) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The social isolation led to feelings of loneliness and hopelessness. The patient's depressive symptoms worsened after he developed physical illnesses, such as eye floaters, that affected his daily activities. This caused him to have suicidal ideation to the extent that he attempted suicide by ingesting 90 mL of pesticide. Two weeks prior to the attempt, he updated his will and asked his friend to keep it. After the suicide attempt, he vomited and had diarrhea and epigastric pain. He called his friend, who brought him to the hospital emergency room (ER). He was resuscitated and subsequently admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). After being medically stabilized, he was transferred to the psychiatric ward, where further treatment was administered for his depression. His depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation improved after he was administered antidepressants and psychotherapy. Results The impact of the COVID pandemic has led to a surge in mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. The elderly are among the highest-risk groups of individuals to contract or die of COVID-19 infection, and they are also the most likely to develop mental health issues related to the pandemic. Furthermore, the risk of death by suicide is highest in this age group due to physical illness, social isolation, and the lack of a support system. This case also highlights the need for awareness of suicidal ideation screening among non-medical healthcare professionals and religious organizations to avoid the treatment gap. Conclusion It is essential to enhance suicide risk assessment and management among the elderly after the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hajar Mohd Salleh Sahimi
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Malaysia
- Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Marhani Midin
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Malaysia
- Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jane Tze Yn Lim
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Malaysia
- Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Wafiy Ariffin Anwar
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Malaysia
- Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Farah Deena Abdul Samad
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Malaysia
- Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nurul Ain Mohamad Kamal
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Malaysia
- Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Martin W, Collett G, Bell C, Prescott A. Ageing, the digital and everyday life during and since the Covid-19 pandemic. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1168340. [PMID: 37829072 PMCID: PMC10564992 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1168340] [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: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction During and since the Covid-19 pandemic there has been an intensified integration of digital technologies into the everyday lives of older people. We do, however, know little about the ways in which older people incorporate digital technologies and communications into their daily lives and their own meanings, embodiment and experiences of the digital during and since the Covid-19 pandemic. Method The aim of our research was to explore the use of digital devices during and since the Covid-19 pandemic and to identify facilitators and barriers to incorporating digital devices into everyday life. The research involved a series of online focus groups with people aged between 63 and 86 years living in the United Kingdom and were conducted in 2022. Each focus group lasted around 90 min and data was audio-recorded and transcribed. The data was analysed thematically. Results From the analysis, three interconnecting whilst analytically distinct themes around the meaning and experiences of using digital devices in everyday life during and since the pandemic, are thematically presented as: (1) Incorporating the digital into everyday life; (2) Social and digital connectivity; and (3) Challenges and limitations of the digital in everyday life. Discussion The research has provided insights into the way digital devices were used by older people during and since the Covid-19 pandemic. In particular, we highlight the increasing importance of digital connectivity and the ways in which older people actively engage (and resist) technologies of communication in their daily lives; and the significance of embodied co-presence and the immediacy of shared space and/or time is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Martin
- College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, United Kingdom
| | - George Collett
- William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Chris Bell
- College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, United Kingdom
| | - Amy Prescott
- College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, United Kingdom
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Nguyen NP, Karlsson UL, Lehrman D, Mazibuko T, Saghatelyan T, Thariat J, Baumert BG, Vinh-Hung V, Gorobets O, Giap H, Singh S, Chi A, Alessandrini G, Ahluwalia A, Durosinmi-Etti F, Zegarra Cárdenas J, Diabate K, Oboite J, Oboite E, Mehmood T, Vuong T, Kim L, Page BR. Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on older cancer patients: Proposed solution by the International Geriatric Radiotherapy Group. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1091329. [PMID: 36959795 PMCID: PMC10027708 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1091329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Older cancer patients are disproportionally affected by the Coronavirus 19 (COVID-19) pandemic. A higher rate of death among the elderly and the potential for long-term disability have led to fear of contracting the virus in these patients. This fear can, paradoxically, cause delay in diagnosis and treatment that may lead to a poor outcome that could have been prevented. Thus, physicians should devise a policy that both supports the needs of older patients during cancer treatment, and serves to help them overcome their fear so they seek out to cancer diagnosis and treatment early. A combination of telemedicine and a holistic approach, involving prayers for older cancer patients with a high level of spirituality, may improve vaccination rates as well as quality of life during treatment. Collaboration between health care workers, social workers, faith-based leaders, and cancer survivors may be crucial to achieve this goal. Social media may be an important component, providing a means of sending the positive message to older cancer patients that chronological age is not an impediment to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nam Phong Nguyen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Howard University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Ulf Lennart Karlsson
- Department of Radiation Oncology, International Geriatric Radiotherapy Group, Washington, DC, United States
| | - David Lehrman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Howard University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Thandeka Mazibuko
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Howard University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Tatul Saghatelyan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, National Center of Oncology, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Juliette Thariat
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Francois Baclesse Cancer Center, Cain, France
| | - Brigitta G. Baumert
- Institute of Radiation Oncology, Cantonal Hospital Graubuenden, Chur, Switzerland
| | - Vincent Vinh-Hung
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Centre Hospitalier de La Polynesie Francaise, Tahiti, French Polynesia
| | - Olena Gorobets
- Department of Oral Surgery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Martinique, Martinique, France
| | - Huan Giap
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Sankalp Singh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Army Hospital (Research & Referral), New Delhi, India
| | - Alexander Chi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beijing Chest Hospital, Beijing, China
| | | | - Abhinav Ahluwalia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Advanced Care Oncology Center, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Jorge Zegarra Cárdenas
- Division of Medical Oncology, Regional Institute of Neoplastic Disease, Concepcion, Peru
| | | | - Joan Oboite
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Howard University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Eromosele Oboite
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Howard University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Tahir Mehmood
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Northampton General Hospital, Northampton, United Kingdom
| | - Te Vuong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Lyndon Kim
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, United States
| | - Brandi R. Page
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Collinge AN, Bath PA. Socioeconomic Background and Self-Reported Sleep Quality in Older Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Analysis of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4534. [PMID: 36901540 PMCID: PMC10001974 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted sleep quality. However, research regarding older adults' sleep quality during the pandemic has been limited. This study examined the association between socioeconomic background (SEB) and older adults' sleep quality during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data on 7040 adults aged ≥50 were acquired from a COVID-19 sub-study of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA). SEB was operationalized using educational attainment, previous financial situation, and concern about the future financial situation. Sociodemographic, mental health, physical health, and health behavior variables were included as covariates. Chi-squared tests and binary logistic regression were used to examine associations between SEB and sleep quality. Lower educational attainment and greater financial hardship and concerns were associated with poor sleep quality. The relationship between educational attainment and sleep quality was explained by the financial variables, while the relationship between previous financial difficulties and sleep quality was explained by physical health and health behavior variables. Greater financial concerns about the future, poor mental health, and poor physical health were independent risk factors for poor sleep quality in older adults during the pandemic. Healthcare professionals and service providers should consider these issues when supporting older patients with sleep problems and in promoting health and wellness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam N. Collinge
- Information School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 4DP, UK
| | - Peter A. Bath
- Information School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 4DP, UK
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 4DA, UK
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Kilic D, Aslan G, Ata G, Bakan ABS. Relationship between the fear of COVID-19 and social isolation and depression in elderly individuals. Psychogeriatrics 2023; 23:222-229. [PMID: 36516958 PMCID: PMC9878127 DOI: 10.1111/psyg.12924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has seriously affected elderly individuals and it has been associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. This study was conducted to examine the relationship between fear of COVID-19, social isolation and depression in elderly individuals. METHODS The study is a descriptive type. The sample consisted of 362 elderly people. The study data were collected using the Introductory Information Form, the Fear of COVID-19 Scale, the Nottingham Health Profile Social Isolation Scale and the Geriatric Depression Scale-Short Form. RESULTS It was determined there was a positive and moderate relationship between fear of COVID-19 and depression and social isolation, and a positive and high relationship between social isolation and depression, and the results were statistically significant (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Public health nurses, during epidemic periods, should help elderly individuals manage their fears about the disease. In addition, they should lead the practices that can sustain social participation and prevent depression in the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilek Kilic
- Faculty of Nursing, Department of Public Health Nursing, Atatürk University, Erzurum, 25040, Turkey
| | - Gülpınar Aslan
- Department of Midwifery, Agri Ibrahim Cecen University Faculty of Health Sciences, Ağrı, Turkey
| | - Gülnaz Ata
- Faculty of Nursing, Department of Public Health Nursing, Atatürk University, Erzurum, 25040, Turkey
| | - Ayse B Savci Bakan
- Department of Nursing, Agri Ibrahim Cecen University Faculty of Health Sciences, Ağrı, Turkey
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Gołębiowska J, Szymala-Pędzik M, Żórawska J, Sobieszczańska M, Agrawal S. Identification of Factors Affecting the Increased Percentage of CGA Recommendations among Patients on Geriatric Ward. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2065. [PMID: 36767432 PMCID: PMC9915924 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
In Poland, the elderly population is noticeably increasing every year. Therefore, the current healthcare system has to rise to the challenge of treatment and prevention strategies targeting elderly persons. Based on the Vulnerable Elders Survey (VES-13 scale), consisting of international and validated scales, we put effort into identifying the factors affecting the increased percentage of CGA (Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment) recommendations by healthcare system physicians. The study group involved 78 patients from the Department of Geriatrics, Wroclaw Medical University, Poland, aged 60-91 (median Me = 81 years old). Of the studied patients, 51 were recommended for CGA (51/78; 64.6%). A statistically significant association was observed between CGA recommendation and age (p < 0.001); the likelihood of a CGA recommendation increased with age. Furthermore, the increased CGA recommendation was observed among geriatric patients with: (a) frailty syndrome (OR = 11.2, CI95% 2.88-43.5, p < 0.001), (b) high risk of malnutrition or malnutrition (OR = 3.87; CI95%, 1.00-14.9, p = 0.04), (c) low mental status (OR = 3.32, CI95% 1.22-9.09, p = 0.029), (d) low ability to perform basic daily duties (according to ADL scale-OR = 12.6, CI95% 1.57-101, p = 0.004 and IADL scale-OR = 4.71, CI95% 1.72-12.9, p = 0.003), and (e) fall risk (OR = 15.0, CI95% 4.67-48.3, p < 0.001). Moreover, homocysteine levels increased with age (p = 0.003) and decreased with sleep duration (p = 0.043). Taken together, all these factors seem to be important when implementing treatment programs adjusted to the individual geriatric patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Gołębiowska
- Department and Clinic of Internal Medicine, Occupational Diseases, Hypertension and Clinical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Szymala-Pędzik
- Clinical Department of Geriatrics, Wroclaw Medical University, Pasteur 4 Street, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Żórawska
- Clinical Department of Geriatrics, Wroclaw Medical University, Pasteur 4 Street, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Sobieszczańska
- Clinical Department of Geriatrics, Wroclaw Medical University, Pasteur 4 Street, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Siddarth Agrawal
- Department and Clinic of Internal Medicine, Occupational Diseases, Hypertension and Clinical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
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Dukelow T, Lawrence EG, Jacobson L, Vassilev P, Koychev I, Muhammed K, Kennelly SP. Modifiable risk factors for dementia, and awareness of brain health behaviors: Results from the Five Lives Brain Health Ireland Survey (FLBHIS). Front Psychol 2023; 13:1070259. [PMID: 36710802 PMCID: PMC9879702 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1070259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Up to 40% of dementias globally are attributable to modifiable risk factors. Many existing studies examining attitudes to brain health are limited by a failure to consider a range of pertinent risk factors and associated barriers to protective behaviors. In Ireland, self-reported knowledge of dementia is poor compared to other conditions. In this context, the current study aimed to explore exposure to and awareness of specific modifiable risk factors for dementia. We also aimed to investigate whether exposure to these risk factors is associated with demographic and socioeconomic factors. A cross-sectional survey was administered to 555 voluntary participants in February 2022. The survey captured the following information: (1) Sociodemographic factors; (2) Exposure to, as well as knowledge of modifiable risk factors for dementia, namely diet, social interaction, exercise, hypertension, sleep, depression, smoking, alcohol consumption, cognitive stimulation, hearing impairment, diabetes, air pollution, and head injury. The study population comprised 551 participants (50.3% male; 49.6% female). Mean age was 59.7 years. Modifiable risk factors for dementia were prevalent. Relative to females, male gender was significantly associated with multiple risk factors. Whilst 65.6% of participants believed that lifestyle improvements can decrease a person's risk of developing dementia, only 31.4% believed that dementia could be prevented. Head injury (90.9%, n = 500), low mental stimulation (85.3%, n = 469), and alcohol consumption (77.8%, n = 428) were the three most commonly recognized risk factors. Awareness was significantly greater in both university groups (undergraduate and postgraduate) for multiple risk factors. Our findings demonstrate that the distribution of exposure to modifiable risk factors for dementia is unequal across gender and age groups, and that awareness levels vary across risk factors. These findings highlight that focus surrounding dementia prevention should shift toward individual risk profiling and should be tailored toward an individual's specific needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Dukelow
- Cork University Hospital (CUH), Cork, Ireland,*Correspondence: Tim Dukelow,
| | - Erin Grace Lawrence
- Unit of Psychological Medicine, Centre for Psychiatry and Mental Health, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom,Five Lives SAS, Tours, France
| | | | | | - Ivan Koychev
- Five Lives SAS, Tours, France,Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kinan Muhammed
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Level 6, West Wing, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Sean P. Kennelly
- Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland,Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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11
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Robert G, Bernhard JC, Capon G, Alezra E, Estrade V, Blanc P, Bladou F, Bensadoun H. Consequences of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on urological surgery in France: a nationwide analysis of the healthcare system database. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e066220. [PMID: 36375970 PMCID: PMC9664026 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066220] [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: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED The SARS-CoV-2 outbreak overwhelmed the healthcare systems worldwide. Saturation of hospitals and the risk of contagion led to a reduction in the care of other diseases. OBJECTIVE To determine the impact of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on urological surgery in France during the year 2020. DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS An observational descriptive study was conducted on anonymised data collected from the national healthcare database established each year as part of the Program for the Medicalization of Information Systems in Medicine, Surgery, Obstetrics and Odontology. INTERVENTION None. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES We gathered the number of urology surgical procedures carried out between 2010 and 2019, and we observed the difference between the forecast and actual number of urological surgeries performed in 2020. RESULTS Urological surgeries decreased by 11.4%, non-oncological surgeries being more affected (-13.1%) than oncological ones (-4.1%). Among the most relevant surgeries, female urinary incontinence (-44.7%) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (-20.8%) were the most impacted ones, followed by kidney cancer (-9%), urolithiasis (-8.7%), radical cystectomy for bladder cancer (-6.1%), prostate cancer (-3.6%) and transurethral resection of bladder tumour (-2%). Public hospitals had a more reduced activity (-17.7%) than private ones (-9.1%). Finally, the distribution of the reduction in urological activities by region did not correspond to the regional burden of SARS-CoV-2. CONCLUSIONS Urological care was severely affected during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Even if oncological surgeries were prioritised, the longer it takes to receive appropriate care, the greater the risk on survival impact. TRIAL REGISTRATION The data collection and analysis was authorised by the French Data Protection Authority (CNIL) under the number1 861 282v2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregoire Robert
- Department of Urology, CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
- Université de Bordeaux, Talence, France
| | | | - Grégoire Capon
- Department of Urology, CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Eric Alezra
- Department of Urology, CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Peggy Blanc
- Department of Urology, CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Franck Bladou
- Department of Urology, CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
- Université de Bordeaux, Talence, France
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12
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Perdixi E, Bernini S, Conti S, Jesuthasan N, Cotta Ramusino M, Costa A, Prinelli F. Pre-existing mental health disorders and fear of COVID-19 pandemic: Data from a phone survey in community-dwelling older adults recruited in the NutBrain study. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:995308. [PMID: 36419980 PMCID: PMC9676658 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.995308] [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: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background COVID-19 has caused a parallel epidemic of fear, anxiety, depression, stress, and frustration, particularly among the most fragile and vulnerable individuals, such as older people and those with previous mental health disorders. The present study aims to investigate the association between pre-existing mental health disorders, particularly depressive symptoms and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), and the fear of COVID-19 and to explore which cognitive domains were involved in coping with fear in older people. Materials and methods In April 2020, we conducted a phone-interview questionnaire on community-dwelling older adults living in Lombardy Region (Italy) who participated in the NutBrain study. At baseline, socio-demographic characteristics along with lifestyles, and medical history were recorded. Participants underwent a neuropsychological battery exploring the global cognitive function and specific cognitive domains, to detect cases of MCI. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale (CES-D) was used for screening depressive symptoms. During the phone survey, respondents were assessed using a structured questionnaire querying about fear of the COVID-19 pandemic. We performed multivariate logistic regression models to study the association between MCI and depressive symptomatology and fear. We also explored which cognitive domains were associated with fear. Odds Ratios (OR) with Confidence Intervals (95%CI) were estimated adjusting for potential confounders. Results Out of the 351 respondents (mean age 73.5 ± 6.1 years, 59.8% women, 49.1% high education), at baseline, 22.9% had MCI and 18.8% had depressive symptoms. In the multivariate analyses gender, age, and body mass index were significantly associated with the fear score. Considering different domains of fear, MCI was associated with fear of being infected themselves (OR 2.55, 95%CI 1.39-4.70) while depressive symptoms were associated with fear of contagion for family members (OR 2.38, 95%CI 1.25-4.52). Impaired executive cognitive function was positively associated with the highest tertile of the fear score (OR 3.28, 95%CI 1.37-7.74) and with fear of contagion for themselves (OR 3.39, 95%CI 1.61-7.17). Conclusion Older adults experienced different fear reactions, particularly when suffering from neurocognitive disorders and depressive symptoms; executive dysfunction was associated with increased fear. These results highlighted the need to pay attention to the psychological effects of the outbreak of COVID-19 to target intervention, especially among vulnerable subgroups of individuals. Clinical trial registration [ClinicalTrials.gov], identifier [NCT04461951].
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Perdixi
- Unit of Behavioral Neurology and Dementia Research Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Sara Bernini
- Unit of Behavioral Neurology and Dementia Research Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Silvia Conti
- Unit of Behavioral Neurology and Dementia Research Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Nithiya Jesuthasan
- Epidemiology Unit, Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Segrate, MI, Italy
| | - Matteo Cotta Ramusino
- Unit of Behavioral Neurology and Dementia Research Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alfredo Costa
- Unit of Behavioral Neurology and Dementia Research Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Federica Prinelli
- Unit of Behavioral Neurology and Dementia Research Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
- Epidemiology Unit, Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Segrate, MI, Italy
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Alkouri O, Khader Y, Hweidi IM, Gharaibeh MK, Jarrah M, Hamdan KM, Al Marzouqi A, Khamaiseh K. COVID-19 Fear and Anxiety among Patients with Chronic Heart Failure: A Cross Sectional Study. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11216586. [PMID: 36362814 PMCID: PMC9653698 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11216586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the current management of COVID-19 is mainly focused on efficacious vaccine and infection control, the most common psychological reactions (such as fear and anxiety) associated with the COVID-19 pandemic have not been investigated and even neglected in patients with heart failure who are at greater risk for morbidity and mortality. We assessed COVID-19 related fear and anxiety among patients with heart failure and determined their associated factors. A cross sectional survey was conducted among 300 consecutive patients with heart failure during the period of March 2021−June 2021. Almost 50.7% of patients had fear of COVID-19 and 36.3% had coronavirus anxiety. Age > 55 was significantly associated with increased odds of fear (OR = 2.6) and anxiety (OR = 4.3). Patients with angina were more likely to have fear (OR = 3.0) and anxiety (OR = 2.2) and patients with chronic lung disease were more likely to have fear (OR = 3.0) and anxiety (OR = 3.3). Increased age, having angina, and having chronic lung disease were associated with increased odds of fear of COVID-19 and coronavirus anxiety. Psychological support needs to be integrated in patient care with special attention to physiological risk factors that are associated with COVID-19 comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osama Alkouri
- Faculty of Nursing, Yarmouk University, Irbid 2116, Jordan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +962-78123-5385
| | - Yousef Khader
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 2116, Jordan
| | - Issa M. Hweidi
- Faculty of Nursing, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 2116, Jordan
| | | | - Mohamad Jarrah
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 2116, Jordan
| | | | - Amina Al Marzouqi
- College of Health Sciences, Health Services Administration University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Khaldoun Khamaiseh
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Balqa University, Al-Salt P.O. Box 19117, Jordan
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Kayhan Koçak FÖ, Çavdar S, Savas S, Akçiçek SF. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on well-being of seniors attending online programs at University of the Third Age: a follow-up study. Psychogeriatrics 2022; 22:642-650. [PMID: 35778367 PMCID: PMC9349604 DOI: 10.1111/psyg.12866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reports on psychological effects of quarantine during past outbreaks and pandemics showed that quarantined people were more likely to experience psychological problems than those who were not. It was also shown that there was an increase in anxiety, depression, and stress in all age groups during the COVID-19 pandemic. So, we investigated emotional states and quality of life as components of general well-being in older participants of University of the Third Age (U3A) attending online programs during the second year of the pandemic, and compared them with the pre-pandemic COVID-19 period. METHODS This study was conducted among 27 participants of a U3A program. Data on sociodemographics, Charlson comorbidity index, the Geriatric Depression Scale Short Form (GDS-SF), The Geriatric Anxiety Scale (GAS), and Turkish version of World Health Organization Quality of Life Instrument Older Adults Module (WHOQOL-OLD) were taken in September 2019 and September 2021. RESULTS The median age of the participants was 68 (60-75) years (81.5% female). In the COVID-19 pandemic period; 'Death and dying' (except for 'Fear of pain before death' score), 'Intimacy' domain, and 'Social participation' domain scores of WHOQOL-OLD decreased compared to the pre-pandemic period (P < 0.001, P = 0.011, and P < 0.001, respectively) whereas the scores for GAS and GDS-SF were higher (P < 0.001 and P = 0.011). The reason for the decrease in 'Social participation' domain scores was the decrease in 'Satisfaction with opportunity to participate in community'. There was no significant difference in 'Autonomy' domain of WHOQOL-OLD (P = 0.598). CONCLUSION Although there was no change in 'Autonomy' domain among the participants of U3A before and during the pandemic period, anxiety and depression scores were higher in the second year of the COVID pandemic. Only a decrease in satisfaction with opportunity to participate in community might have significant impact on social participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Özge Kayhan Koçak
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Sibel Çavdar
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Sumru Savas
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Selahattin Fehmi Akçiçek
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
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15
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Correction: Agrawal et al. The Assessment of Fear of COVID-19 among the Elderly Population: A Cross-Sectional Study. J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10, 5537. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11133593. [PMID: 35807210 PMCID: PMC9267580 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11133593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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Pietraszek A, Sobieszczańska M, Makuch S, Dróżdż M, Mazur G, Agrawal S. Identification of Barriers Limiting the Use of Preventive Vaccinations against Influenza among the Elderly Population: A Cross-Sectional Analysis. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10050651. [PMID: 35632407 PMCID: PMC9143662 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10050651] [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: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Older adults are at a high risk of experiencing severe complications of influenza. Receiving a vaccination is a beneficial strategy to prevent the disease and reduce the severity of influenza illnesses. This cross-sectional questionnaire-based study aimed to evaluate the influence of sociodemographic, clinical, and mental parameters as well as other potential risk factors on refusal to vaccinate against influenza among the elderly population in Poland. Furthermore, due to the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic, we put efforts into finding any statistical correlations between the fear of COVID-19 infection in patients and their attitudes toward receiving an influenza vaccination. The study was conducted in November−December 2020 in Poland on a representative nationwide sample of 500 individuals aged > 60. Of the respondents, 62 (12.4%) and 51 (10.2%) underwent influenza vaccination in 2019 and 2020, respectively. Out of ten different factors analyzed in this study, three were significantly associated with attitudes towards influenza vaccination. Participants with net income below the national average of PLN 3000 (OR = 2.37, CI 95% [1.26−4.47]), compared to those earning more than PLN 3000, had significantly higher odds of having a negative attitude towards influenza vaccination. Furthermore, respondents with <174 cm height (OR = 2.56, CI 95% [1.51−4.33]) and those with strong fear of COVID-19 infection (OR = 1.65, CI95% [1.02−2.66]) were also more likely to refrain from influenza vaccination. We believe the identification of factors limiting the willingness to receive influenza vaccination is an effective way to help clinicians focus their efforts on educating the groups of patients with the highest odds of refusing to receive the vaccine. Moreover, it may aid the design and enforcement of national solutions or the implementation of novel legislative measures and preventive programs, increasing public confidence and promoting vaccination, especially among groups at high risk of developing this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicja Pietraszek
- Clinical Department of Geriatrics, Wroclaw Medical University, Skłodowskiej-Curie Str. 66, 50-369 Wroclaw, Poland;
- Correspondence:
| | - Małgorzata Sobieszczańska
- Clinical Department of Geriatrics, Wroclaw Medical University, Skłodowskiej-Curie Str. 66, 50-369 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Sebastian Makuch
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Wroclaw Medical University, K. Marcinkowskiego St. 1, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Mateusz Dróżdż
- Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Jana Mikulicza-Radeckiego 5, 50-345 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Grzegorz Mazur
- Department and Clinic of Internal Medicine, Occupational Diseases, Hypertension and Clinical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska St. 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (G.M.); (S.A.)
| | - Siddarth Agrawal
- Department and Clinic of Internal Medicine, Occupational Diseases, Hypertension and Clinical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska St. 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (G.M.); (S.A.)
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