Osteosarcopenia later in life: Prevalence and associated risk factors

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The identification of risk factors for osteosarcopenia in older adults is important for planning preventative strategies in clinical practice. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors associated with osteosarcopenia in older adults using different diagnostic criteria.

METHODS

The sample included 171 community-dwelling older adults with a mean age of 79.4 ± 5.9 years and mean body mass index of 25.67 ± 4.70 kg/m2. We analyzed sociodemographic, biomarkers, lifestyle, and health condition data from participants of the "Projeto Idosos - Goiânia" cohort study. The outcome osteosarcopenia was defined as the simultaneous occurrence of sarcopenia and osteopenia. Osteopenia was diagnosed by low lumbar spine bone mineral density (BMD) using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Sarcopenia was diagnosed using handgrip dynamometry and appendicular skeletal mass index assessed by DEXA following the criteria of the two European consensuses on sarcopenia (2010 and 2018). Two osteosarcopenia outcome variables were evaluated: OsteoSarc1 and OsteoSarc2 using the 2010 and 2018 European sarcopenia consensus criteria, respectively. Multivariate Poisson regression analysis was used to calculate the prevalence ratios (PRs).

RESULTS

The prevalence of OsteoSarc1 and OsteoSarc2 were 12.8% and 7.2%, respectively, with no significant gender differences. OsteoSarc1 was associated with low potassium (PR: 3.39, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.10-10.43) and malnutrition (PR: 3.84, 95% CI: 1.78-8.30). OsteoSarc2 was associated with being ≥80 years (PR: 7.64, 95% CI: 1.57-37.07), >4 years of education (PR: 3.25, 95% CI: 1.03-10.22), alcohol consumption (PR: 2.41, 95% CI: 1.01-5.77), low potassium (PR: 2.22, 95% CI: 1.45-6.87), low serum vitamin D (PR: 4.47, 95% CI: 1.68-11.88), and malnutrition (PR: 5.00, 95% CI: 1.06-23.51).

CONCLUSIONS

OsteoSarc1 had a higher prevalence. The risk factors associated with the two outcomes were malnutrition and potassium level, as well as other risk factors, such as alcohol consumption and low vitamin D level. These findings may contribute to the prevention or treatment of this health condition in older adults.

Environmental and behavioral factors associated with household transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in children and adolescents

Objective

To analyze the association between risk behaviors and environmental factors and SARS-CoV-2 infection in children and adolescents in the family environment.

Methods

Cross-sectional study. A total of 267 children and adolescents aged 5-19 years who have contact with COVID-19-positive essential workers were tested between June and October 2020. Behavioral and environmental variables associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection were investigated. Association between these variables was performed using Poisson regression.

Results

SARS-CoV-2 prevalence was 25.1%. Following the confirmation of COVID-19 diagnosis of the index case, 92.1% of adults reported hand hygiene and 83.5% showed habits of respiratory etiquette. However, 12.7% wore masks in common areas of the residence before COVID-19. Sharing common objects was a risk factor for SARS-CoV-2 infection in the sample.

Conclusion

Sharing objects among family members was identified as a risk factor associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection in children and adolescents who lived with infected adults. There was high frequency of hand hygiene and low prevalence of mask use.

Low Vaccine Coverage and Factors Associated with Incomplete Childhood Immunization in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and Rural Groups, Central Brazil

Discrimination and limited access to healthcare services in remote areas can affect vaccination coverage. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate vaccination coverage for children living in quilombola communities and rural settlements in the central region of Brazil during their first year of life and to analyze the factors associated with incomplete vaccination. An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on children born between 2015 and 2017. The percentage of children who received all vaccines recommended by the National Immunization Program in Brazil by 11 months and 29 days was used to calculate immunization coverage. Children who received the following vaccines were considered as having a complete basic vaccination schedule: one dose of BCG; three doses of Hepatitis B, of Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DPT), of Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), and of Poliovirus (Polio); two doses of Rotavirus, of 10-valent pneumococcal (PCV10), and of Serogroup C meningococcal conjugate (MenC); and one dose of Yellow Fever (YF). Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) and other doses recommended at or after 12 months were not included. Consolidated logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with incomplete vaccination coverage. Overall vaccination coverage was 52.8% (95% CI: 45.5-59.9%) and ranged from 70.4% for the Yellow Fever vaccine to 78.3% for the Rotavirus vaccine, with no significant differences between the quilombola and settler groups. Notably, the likelihood of incomplete general vaccination coverage was higher among children who did not receive a visit from a healthcare professional. Urgent strategies are required to achieve and ensure health equity for this unique and traditionally distinct group with low vaccination coverage.

Cardiovascular risk factors in the elderly: a 10-year follow-up survival analysis

AIMS

Cardiovascular risk factors present a high prevalence and have an impact on the morbimortality of the elderly; however, studies evaluating the impact of cardiovascular risk factors in the elderly have had short follow-up times and have not allowed specific analyses of the effects of these factors in the aged population, including how they affect the survival of the elderly. This study aimed to analyse the survival of elderly individuals living in the community, considering the presence of cardiovascular risk factors.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A prospective 10-year follow-up was initiated in 2008 with a cohort of 418 elderly people living in a community in Central Brazil. The Kaplan-Meier method and the Cox proportional hazards model were used to examine the association between survival and cardiovascular risk factors. The mean age of the participants was 70.6 (±7.1) years; most participants were hypertensive (81.6%) and participated in irregular physical activity (44%), and 43.3% smoked. After a mean follow-up of 8.38 (±2.82) years, 59.3% had survived and 34.1% had died; among the deaths, 14.1% were due to cardiovascular causes. Age [hazard ratio (HR) 1.067, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.027-1.109], hypertension (HR 3.178, 95% CI 1.144-8.826), and smoking (HR 2.235, 95% CI 1.253-3.987) were confirmed as risk factors for reduced survival, whereas physical activity was a protective factor (HR 0.456, 95% CI 0.206-1.007).

CONCLUSION

The results from this study highlight the need for educational policies towards hypertension and smoking prevention among elderly people, and participation in physical activity needs to be encouraged.

Temporal trend in venous thromboembolism hospitalization rates in Brazilian older adults, 2010-2020

Aging is one of the main risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE). Changes in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for this condition in recent years require an analysis of its rates in health services. The objective of this study was to analyze a temporal trend of hospitalizations for VTE in Brazilian older adults. This ecological time series study used data from the Hospital Information System (HIS) on VTE hospitalizations from 2010 to 2020, selecting admissions with the main diagnosis of pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) (I.26.0, I.26.9) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) (I.80.0, I80.1, I80.2, I80.3, I80.8, I80.9). Hospitalization rates were calculated for each year and the Prais-Winsten. In Brazil, the trend of hospitalizations for VTE decreased, with an annual percentage change of - 40.71 (confidence interval [CI] - 50.46; - 29.04). DVT decreased, with an annual percentage change of - 43.14 (95% confidence interval [CI] - 51.36; - 33.54). All Brazilian regions showed a downward trend in hospitalizations for VTE and DVT, except for the Northeast region, which remained stable. Conversely, the trend of hospitalizations for PTE showed an upward in Brazil, with an annual percentage change of 4.33 (95% CI 1.26; 7.48). An upward trend was observed in hospitalizations for PTE in the Northeast region, and a stationary trend was observed in the other regions. The results showed a downward trend in hospitalization rates for DVT and an upward trend for PTE. The study indicates regional differences in rates and trends.

Burden, satisfaction caregiving, and family relations in informal caregivers of older adults

Introduction

Family caregivers of older persons devote much of their time and energy to caring for another person. This exposure may burden caregivers and compromise their health and quality of life.

Objective

To investigate the relationship between burden, sociodemographic, caregiving, and health characteristics of informal caregivers of dependent older adults.

Methods

Cross-sectional and analytical study carried out in Palmas, Tocantins, Brazil, with 52 informal caregivers of older persons who need full-time help for basic living activities. Caregivers' burden was assessed by Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI). Data were analyzed using a T-test, Pearson's correlation, and Multiple Linear Regression.

Results

The ZBI mean score of caregivers was 26.3 points (SD = 14.6; min = 0; max = 68). Burden scores were higher among caregivers who did not receive help from other people in care (p = 0.016), reported family dysfunction (p = 0.001), and had depression symptoms (p = 0.007). A correlation was found between the scores of burdens and satisfaction with care (r = 0.76; p < 0.001) and perceived material support (r = -0.30; p = 0.40). Satisfaction with care (β: 0.61; p < 0.001) and family dysfunction (β: 8.07; p = 0.033) were significantly associated with the burden score.

Conclusion

Caregivers with dysfunctional families and satisfaction with the care presented the highest-burden scores. The findings reveal the need for strategies to facilitate mediation and reduce caregiver burden by strengthening the family network support or providing professional assistance.

Access and Use of Health Services by People with Diabetes from the Item Response Theory

The objective of this study was to analyze the indicators of access and use of health services in people with diabetes mellitus. This study used data from the National Health Survey, conducted in Brazil in 2013. The National Health Survey was carried out with adults aged 18 years or older residing in permanent private households in Brazil. Indicators from 492 individuals with self-reported diabetes mellitus living in the Central-West region of the country were analyzed. Item response theory was used to estimate the score for access to and use of health services. Multiple linear regression was used to analyze factors associated with scores of access and use of health services by people with diabetes mellitus. The mean score of access estimated by the item response theory and use estimated was 51.4, with the lowest score of zero (lowest access and use) and the highest 100 (highest access and use). Among the indicators analyzed, 74.6% reported having received medical care in the last 12 months and 46.4% reported that the last visit occurred in primary care. Only 18.9% had their feet examined and 29.3% underwent eye examinations. Individuals of mixed-race/skin color and those residing outside capital and metropolitan regions had lower access and use scores when compared to white individuals and residents of state capitals, respectively. The study shows several gaps in the indicators of access and use of health services by people with diabetes. People of mixed race/skin color and residents outside the capitals and metropolitan regions had lower scores for access and use, suggesting the need to increase health care in these groups.

Sarcopenia and mortality risk in community-dwelling Brazilian older adults

We estimated the impact of sarcopenia parameters on mortality risk and assessed its prevalence and associated factors in the older adults according to the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People's 2010 (EWGSOP1) and 2018 (EWGSOP2) criteria. This was a 10-year follow-up cohort study. Low muscle mass (MM) was defined as low skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and low calf circumference (CC). Cox regression and the Kaplan-Meier method were performed. The prevalence of sarcopenia and associated factors were influenced by the MM measurement method and diagnostic criteria used [6.8% (SMI and EWGSOP2), 12.8% (CC and EWGSOP2; and SMI and EWGSOP1) and 17.4% (CC and EWGSOP1)]. While a low BMI was associated with sarcopenia regardless of the sarcopenia definitions, diabetes, and high TGs were associated with sarcopenia only when using the EWGSOP1 criteria. Low SMI increased mortality risk (EWGSOP1: HR = 2.01, 95% CI 1.03-3.92; EWGSOP2: HR = 2.07, 95% CI 1.05-4.06). The prevalence of sarcopenia was higher according to EWGSOP1 than EWGSOP2. A low BMI, diabetes, and high TGs were associated with sarcopenia. A low SMI doubled the risk of mortality in community-dwelling older adults.

Does Abdominal Obesity Increase All-Cause, Cardiovascular Disease, and Cancer Mortality Risks in Older Adults? A 10-Year Follow-Up Analysis

There is insufficient evidence on the impact of abdominal obesity (AO) on mortality in older adults. Therefore, the objective to analyze the 10-year impact of AO, assessed using different diagnostic criteria, on all-cause, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and cancer mortality in older adults. In this prospective cohort study of older adults (≥60 years), sociodemographic, lifestyle, clinical history, laboratory test, and anthropometric data were analyzed. The considered were used for AO diagnostic: waist circumference (WC) of ≥88 cm for women and ≥102 cm for men; WC of ≥77.8 cm for women and ≥98.8 cm for men; and increased waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), being the highest tertile of distribution by sex. Multivariate Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier analyses were performed. A total of 418 individuals, with an average age of 70.69 ± 7.13 years, participated in the study. In the analysis adjusted for sex and age, WHR was associated with a high risk of all-cause mortality (p = 0.044). Both cutoff points used for the WC were associated with an increased CVD mortality risk. None of the AO parameters were associated with cancer mortality. An increased WHR was associated to a higher all-cause mortality risk factor, while an increased WC was a risk factor for a higher CVD mortality in older adults.

Low muscle mass and mortality risk later in life: A 10-year follow-up study

Introduction

Little is known about the impact of low muscle mass (MM) assessed by calf circumference (CC), arm circumference (AC), arm muscle circumference (AMC), and corrected arm muscle circumference (CAMC)—on mortality risk later in life. We aimed to investigate the impact of low MM assessed by CC, AC, AMC and, CAMC on all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality risk.

Methods

Data came from 418 older adults who participated in a 10-year follow-up prospective cohort study. Low MM was defined as a CC < 33 cm for women and < 34 cm for men and by the lowest tertile of AC, AMC, and CAMC stratified by sex. The log rank test, Kaplan-Meier curves, and Cox regression were used.

Results

There were 147 deaths: 49 related to CVD and 22 to cancer. A small CC (HR = 1.57, 95% CI, 1.12–2.20), AMC (HR = 1.61, 95% CI, 1.13–2.30) and CAMC (HR = 1.45, 95% CI, 1.03–2.04) were associated with all-cause mortality. A small CAMC was a protective factor for CVD mortality (HR = 0.46, 95% CI, 0.22–0.98). In the Kaplan-Meier analysis, older adults with LMM presented low all-cause mortality survival, with AC (p < 0.05), AMC (p < 0.005), CAMC (p < 0.002), and CC (p < 0.001). Cancer mortality was associated with low CAMC (p < 0.020).

Conclusions

Low MM assessed by anthropometric measures (AC, AMC, CAMC and CC) increased the all-cause mortality risk. A small CAMC decreased the CVD mortality.

Risk factors for potentially inappropriate medication use in older adults: a cohort study

BACKGROUND

Much of the knowledge on the use of potentially inappropriate medications (PIM) in older adults is derived from cross-sectional studies, with little known about the risk factors over time.

AIM

Longitudinal analysis was applied to estimate the occurrence and risk factors of PIM use among older adults in a 10-year follow-up.

METHOD

Longitudinal study with 418 older adult residents of a capital city of Central-West Brazil. The PIM were classified according to the Beers criteria 2019. The usage rate was calculated at baseline (2008) and at the 10-year follow-up moment (2018). Analysis of predictors (sociodemographic, self-rated health, hospitalization, number of comorbidities, polypharmacy, diabetes, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and nutritional status) was performed using Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) models.

RESULTS

Mean age at baseline was 70.6 years (SD 7.1) and 76% were women; 221 older adults took part in the follow up. The rate of PIM use was 50.4% at baseline and 57.5% at the 10-year follow-up. Multiple analysis showed that PIM use in the cohort was statistically higher in the older adults with a history of hospitalization (RR_adj 1.20; 95% CI 1.01-1.40), with three or more diseases (RR_adj 1.41; 95% CI 1.14-1.74), with polypharmacy (RR_adj 1.81; 95% CI 1.47-2.24) and with diabetes mellitus (RR_adj 1.24; 95% CI 1.05-1.47).

CONCLUSION

A high level of potentially inappropriate medication use was observed, reaching 50% of the older adults, with a 7% increase in the prevalence over the 10-year follow-up period. Hospitalization, multimorbidities, polypharmacy and diabetes mellitus were associated with the use of these medications. Interventions for surveillance of the deprescribing process need to be encouraged to avoid potential harm caused by the use of medications.

Prevalence of diabetes mellitus according to associated factors in rural traditional populations in Goiás, Brazil: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

To identify the prevalence of and factors associated with diabetes mellitus in rural traditional communities.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study carried out in 115 rural communities distributed in 45 municipalities in the state of Goiás, including: 13 river communities, 51 quilombolas and 63 agrarian reform settlements. Probabilistic sampling was performed, and participants were selected at random. The outcome variable was self-reported diabetes mellitus, while exposure variables were sociodemographic, lifestyle, health conditions and access to health services. Multiple regression was used to determine the association between study variables.

RESULTS

Among the 2,537 participants, the overall prevalence of diabetes was 9.8%, with 13.5% in river dwellers, 10.0% in quilombolas and 9.3% in settlers. Factors associated with diabetes were negative self-perception of health, being a former smoker, high blood pressure, hypercholesterolemia, and living in a river community.

CONCLUSION

The results reinforce the need to strengthen strategies for the prevention and control of diabetes and its complications in rural populations, especially among river dwellers.

Risk factors for pneumonia in hospitalized older people with femoral fractures: Results from a Brazilian prospective cohort

BACKGROUND

Pneumonia is a common complication in older people who are hospitalized to treat different fractures, which increases morbimortality in this population.

OBJECTIVES

Estimating the pneumonia incidence density in older people hospitalized to treat femoral fractures and identifying risk factors for this infection.

METHODS

Prospective cohort study whose data were collected from a population of older people who were being treated for femoral fractures at a hospital in the central region of Brazil between September 2016 and February 2017. The pneumonia diagnosis was based on radiography and clinical tests. Incidence density was estimated according to gender, age, Charlson comorbidity index, polypharmacy, chronic pulmonary disease, admission to the intensive care unit, surgical treatment, and nasoenteral tube feeding. Magnitude of the associations was estimated by multiple Poisson regression.

RESULTS

Among the 200 patients, the pneumonia incidence density was 13.04/1,000 person-days. For men and older people 80 years old or older, the pneumonia incidence density was 15.6/1,000 person-days and 18.3/1,000 person-days, respectively. After adjusting for age, gender, chronic pulmonary disease, and admission to the intensive care unit, use of nasoenteral tubes remained associated with occurrence of pneumonia in older people, and the risk of developing the infection was eight times higher in the population who received nasoenteral feeding than that calculated for the population that did not use the devices (p ≤ 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Using nasoenteral tubes during hospital stays increased the risk of developing pneumonia in hospitalized older people, which reinforces the need for continuous care monitoring regarding use of tubes to prevent complications.

[Vascular damage and cognitive-functional performance in a population with mild cognitive impairment]

INTRODUCTION

There is evidence of predemential stages in Vascular Dementia (VD). Alzheimer Disease (AD) and VD share common risk factors and mechanisms. Vascular comorbility may present in 30-60% of patients with AD (mixed dementia). This work seeks to evaluate the impact of the severity of structural vascular damage according to the Fazekas classification (F) on functional cognitive performance in patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study of patients with MCI aged 65 years or older who had brain MRI was carried out. A neurocognitive battery and the EFE (Extended Functional Study) scale were administered to assess complex functionality. The patients were divided according to Fazekas classification: 0-1, 2 and 3. Bivariate analysis and multivariate analysis were performed.

RESULTS

346 patients were included, age: 77.9 (SD 6.1). 66.2% presented F01, 22.8% F2 and 11% F3. Age and MMSE value were statistically significant. Multivariate analysis showed an independent association between vascular damage and complex functional alteration measured by EFE.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, the progression of structural damage to a predominance of white matter would affect global cognitive performance and tasks related to executive function. The most significant finding was the correlation of the degree of vascular damage with the deficit of complex functionality measured with clinical tools that include technological resources. The clinical value of identifying individuals with prodromal DV is highlighted as it could optimize prevention measures.

Prevalência de diabetes mellitus autorreferido e fatores associados em população rural e tradicional de Goiás: estudo transversal

RESUMO: Objetivo: Identificar a prevalência e os fatores associados ao diabetes mellitus em comunidades rurais. Métodos: Estudo transversal desenvolvido em 115 comunidades rurais distribuídas em 45 municípios do Estado de Goiás, sendo: 13 ribeirinhas, 51 quilombolas e 63 assentamentos de reforma agrária. Realizou-se amostragem probabilística, e os participantes foram selecionados de forma aleatória. A variável desfecho foi diabetes mellitus autorreferido, enquanto as de exposição foram sociodemográficas, estilo de vida, condições de saúde e acesso a serviços de saúde. Utilizou-se regressão múltipla para verificar a associação entre variáveis de estudo. Resultados: Entre os 2.537 participantes, a prevalência geral de diabetes foi de 9,8%, sendo 13,5% nos ribeirinhos, 10,0% nos quilombolas e 9,3% nos assentados. Os fatores associados ao diabetes foram a autopercepção negativa de saúde, ser ex-fumante, hipertensão arterial, hipercolesterolemia e residir em comunidade ribeirinha. Conclusão: Os resultados reforçam a necessidade de fortalecer estratégias para prevenção e controle da diabetes e suas complicações em populações rurais, especialmente entre os ribeirinhos.

Rastreamento de transtorno mental comum em idosos residentes no interior: estudo transversal

RESUMO Objetivo: Estimar a prevalência de transtorno mental comum e seus fatores associados em idosos de um município do interior do Centro-Oeste brasileiro. Métodos: Pesquisa de abordagem quantitativa, observacional, transversal, realizada com 218 idosos. Resultados: A prevalência de transtorno mental comum entre os idosos foi de 25,1%; na análise univariada, foi superior no sexo feminino (35,4%), na faixa etária igual ou superior a 80 anos (46,1%), cor da pele parda (30,2%), viúvos (42,6%), analfabetos (47,6%) e aposentados (27,6%). Na análise múltipla, mantiveram-se associadas à TMC as variáveis sexo feminino (p<0,006), idade igual ou superior a 80 anos (p<0,036), insatisfação com a vida (p<0,009), falta de interação social (p=0,017) e família disfuncional (p=0,021). Conclusão: Os resultados revelados são úteis e contribuem no reforço da necessidade de cuidados visando à saúde mental desse extrato populacional tão crescente mundialmente.

Screening for common mental disorder in elderly residents in the countryside: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT Objective: To estimate the prevalence of common mental disorders and their associated factors in the elderly in a municipality in the countryside of the Brazilian Midwest. Methods: Quantitative, observational, cross-sectional approach research, conducted with 218 elderly people. Results: The prevalence of the common mental disorder among the elderly was 25.1%; in the univariate analysis, it was higher in females (35.4%), in the age group of 80 years or older (46.1%), brown skin color (30.2%), widowed (42.6%), illiterate (47.6%), and retired (27.6%). In the multiple analysis, the variables female gender (p<0.006), age 80 years or older (p<0.036), dissatisfaction with life (p<0.009), lack of social interaction (p=0.017), and dysfunctional family (p=0.021) remained associated with CMD. Conclusion: The results revealed are helpful and contribute to the reinforcement of the need for mental health care in this population extract so growing worldwide.

Incidence of delirium following hospitalization of elderly people with fractures: risk factors and mortality

OBJECTIVE

To identify the incidence, risk factors for delirium, and its association with death in the elderly hospitalized with fractures.

METHOD

Prospective cohort, with a one-year follow-up of elderly people with clinical or radiological diagnosis of fracture, from an emergency and trauma hospital in the state of Goiás. The outcome delirium was defined by the medical description in the medical record. The predictor variables were demographic, health conditions, and hospitalization complications. A hierarchical multiple analysis was performed using robust Poisson regression, with Relative Risk as a measure of effect.

RESULTS

A total of 376 elderly patients were included. The incidence of delirium was 12.8% (n = 48). Risk factors were male gender, age ≥80 years, dementia, heart disease, osteoporosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, high-energy traumas, pneumonia, urinary tract infection, and surgery. The risk of death in the sample was 1.97 times higher (HR: 1.97 95% CI 1.19-3.25) in elderly people with delirium.

CONCLUSION

Delirium had an intermediate incidence (12.8%); the risk of death in this group was about 2 times higher in one year after hospital admission. Demographic factors, past history of diseases, surgery, and complications have increased the risk and require monitoring during hospitalization of elderly people with fractures.

Potentially inappropriate medications for the elderly: Incidence and impact on mortality in a cohort ten-year follow-up

INTRODUCTION

Pharmacological therapy plays an important role in disease control in the elderly; unfortunately, this comes with a high prevalence in the use of medications classified as potentially inappropriate.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the incidence, risk factors, and survival of elderly people using potentially inappropriate medications (PIM).

METHOD

A ten-year follow-up assessment of elderly participants residing in a capital of Central Brazil was conducted. The initial assessment (baseline) included 418 elderly people. Data were collected through home interviews guided by a questionnaire covering socioeconomic, demographic, living conditions, and health variables. The medication information obtained comprised active ingredient, dosage, route, and regimen for the medications. The PIMs were classified according to 2019 Beers Criteria. The analyses were performed using STATA 15.0. For survival analysis, a Cox Regression was performed with the respective Kaplan Meier curve.

RESULTS

The incidence of PIM was 44.1 cases (95% CI: 35.2-54.7) per 1,000 people a year. The most used PIMs were nifedipine, glibenclamide, and sodium diclofenac. The risk factors were polypharmacy (aRR: 3.00; 95% CI: 1.31-6.88) and diabetes mellitus (aRR: 1.57; 95% CI: 1.03-2.39). We identified no statistically significant association between survival and the use of PIM.

CONCLUSION

The study highlights the high consumption of PIM among the elderly causing polypharmacy risks. Health professionals working in drug treatment need to be alert to polypharmacy risks to ensure the rational use of medications to prevent adverse reactions and other health problems.

Prevalence of endoparasitors in rural communities in Central Brazil: a cross-sectional study

Background

Studies show that the magnitude is high in regions lacking basic sanitation, such as rural areas. Despite this, there is little evidence on the prevalence of endoparasitosis in rural communities in developing countries. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of endoparasitosis in residents of rural communities in Central Brazil.

Methods

Cross-sectional study conducted within the scope of the Sanrural Project that aims to assess the health and sanitation conditions of rural communities in 2019. The target population of this study consisted of residents of 17 settlements, 24 quilombola and 7 riverside communities in Central Brazil. By listing the total number of residents of each household in the communities, residents were selected by simple random probability sampling. Then, stool samples were collected in sterile plastic containers and identified. After collection, the samples were transported for analysis by direct examination of the feces. The descriptive analysis was made. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Federal University of Goiás.

Results

Data from 680 individuals (children and adults) who had stool samples collected were analyzed. The prevalence's of the endoparasites found were: Entamoeba coli (13.5%; 90%CI: 11.5-15.8%); Giardia lamblia (2.8%; 90%CI: 1.9-4.4); Ascaris lumbricoides (1.5%; 90%CI: 0.9-2.4); Ancyslotoma (0.9%; 90%CI: 0.5-1.7); Enterobius vermicularis (0.7%; 90%CI: 0.4-1.5%); Taenia (0.6%; 90%CI: 0.3-1.3); Hymenolepis nana (0.6%; 90%CI: 0.3-1,3); Itamoeba (0.4; 90%CI: 0.2-1.1); Hymenolepis diminuta (0.3%; 90%CI: 0.1-0.9), Strongiloides (0.0%); Trichuris (0.0%) and, Schistosoma mansoni (0.0%).

Conclusions

An intermediate prevalence for principal endoparasites was observed. This result may suggest the persistence of precarious sanitation conditions. Thus, the implications of the study include the need for systematic action by managers and health professionals in improving sanitation conditions.

Key messages

A current diagnosis will be made on the health and sanitation situation of rural communities in Goiás, based on the analysis of clinical samples and water quality, among other conditions. Based on this diagnosis, together with the community, we will seek solutions for sanitation and health through a Rural Sanitation Security Plan (PSSR).

What are the factors associated with sarcopenia-related variables in adult women with severe obesity?

BACKGROUND

Understanding the association between sarcopenia-related variables and several risk factors may help to implement interventions aimed at preventing its occurrence by reducing or controlling the identified risk factors. Although changes in body composition occur in both sexes, in women, muscle loss is accentuated due to decreased estrogen levels following menopause. This study aims to determine the factors associated with sarcopenia-related parameters in middle-aged women identified with class II/III obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 35 kg/m2).

METHODS

The study included 104 women with severe obesity (40.23 ± 8.49 years) with an average body fat percentage of 52.45 ± 4.14%. Sarcopenia was assessed using total appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASMM), appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMMI), and appendicular skeletal muscle mass adjusted by BMI (ASMM/BMI) as evaluated using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Hand grip strength (HGS) and HGS adjusted by BMI (HGS/BMI) were evaluated using dynamometry. Functional performance was assessed using the walking speed test (WS). The explanatory variables were age, lifestyle, comorbidities, food consumption, and metabolic parameters. A multivariate linear regression was performed.

RESULTS

Factors associated with sarcopenia-related variables in 104 severely obese women with a mean BMI of 43.85 kg/m2 were as follows: ASMMI negatively correlated with serum levels of tetraiodothyronine (T4) and tobacco use; ASMM/BMI negatively correlated with age, serum T4 levels, and diabetes; ASMM negatively correlated with T4 serum levels and diabetes; HGS negatively correlated with age and hypercholesterolemia, and positively correlated with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c); HGS/BMI negatively correlated with age and hypercholesterolemia and positively correlated with LDL-c; and WS negatively correlated with hypothyroidism and diabetes.

CONCLUSION

In severely obese women, muscle mass and function were inversely associated with age, smoking status, endocrine parameters, hypercholesterolemia, and comorbidities such as diabetes. Thus, the results of this investigation are relevant in supporting the development of clinical interventions to aid in the prevention of sarcopenia in adult women with severe obesity.

Disability on performing daily living activities in the elderly and history of falls: an analysis of the National Health Survey, 2013

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to verify the association between types of dependence for basic and instrumental activities of daily living and the occurrence of falls in the elderly.

METHODS

A cross-sectional, population-based study using data from 23,815 elderly people drawn from the National Health Survey (NHS) in 2013. The NHS, conducted by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) and the Ministry of Health, presents data collected in 81,767 households in more than 1,600 municipalities. The association between the independent variable (ADL disabilities) and the dependent variable (history of falls) was performed through multiple and crude analyses, regression.

RESULTS

There was a greater association between using the toilet and transfers (ABVD) and falls, and between shopping and taking care of finances (IADL) and falls. In addition, the association between Basic Activities of Daily Living and falls was greater for up to four activities, and the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living for up to three activities.

CONCLUSION

Thus, the results obtained in the NHS reinforce the planning of preventive strategies considering the functional dependence.

Survival Analysis of Hospitalized Elderly People with Fractures in Brazil Over One Year

Objective: This study analyzes the causes of death, survival, and other related factors in hospitalized elderly people with fractures over the course of one year. Methods: We followed 376 fracture patients for one year in a prospective cohort study to a reference hospital in central Brazil. The Cox regression model was used to analyze factors associated with survival. Results: The results indicate that the one-year mortality rate was high (22.9%). The independent factors linked to lower overall survival were as follows: patients aged ≥80 years with previous intensive care unit (ICU) admission and presence of comorbidities (diabetes mellitus [DM] and dementia). Conclusion: Our study results may contribute to a better understanding of the impact of fractures on the elderly population and reinforce the need to oversee age-groups, diabetic patients, and patients with complications during hospitalization.

Hypertension Prevalence, Treatment and Control in Older Adults in a Brazilian Capital City

BACKGROUND

The diagnosis, treatment and control of arterial hypertension are fundamental for a reduction in cardiovascular outcomes, especially in the elderly. In Brazil, there are few studies that specifically identified these rates in the elderly population.

OBJECTIVE

To verify rates of prevalence, treatment and control of hypertension in elderly people living in the urban area of a Brazilian capital city.

METHODS

A cross-sectional, population-based, randomized, cluster-based study with 912 non-institutionalized elderly individuals (≥ 60 years), living in urban areas in the city of Goiania, Midwest Brazil. Predictor variables were: age, gender, socioeconomic and lifestyle aspects. Blood pressure measurements were performed at home; patients were considered as having arterial hypertension when SBP and/or DBP ≥ 140/90 mmHg or when using antihypertensive drugs (dependent variable). Rates of hypertension treatment and control were evaluated. Variable association analyses were performed by multivariate logistic regression and level of significance was set at 5%.

RESULTS

The prevalence of arterial hypertension was 74.9%, being higher (78.6%) in men (OR 1.4, 95% CI: 1.04-1.92); the treatment rate was 72.6%, with higher rates being observed in smokers (OR 2.06, 95% CI: 1.28-3.33). The rate of hypertension control was 50.8%,being higher in women (OR 1.57, 95% CI: 1.19-2.08).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence rates were high. Treatment and control rates were low and associated with gender, age and lifestyle, indicating the need for early and individual interventions.

Falls among Brazilian older adults living in urban areas: ELSI-Brazil

OBJECTIVE

To assess the prevalence and factors associated with falls in a nationally representative sample of older Brazilians residing in urban areas.

METHODS

Data from 4,174 participants (60 years or older) from the baseline of ELSI-Brazil, conducted between 2015 and 2016, were used. The outcome variable was the reporting of one or more falls in the last 12 months. The exploratory variables were sociodemographic characteristics, factors related to the urban environment, and health conditions. Statistical analysis was performed using Poisson regression.

RESULTS

The prevalence of falls was 25.1%. Of these, 1.8% resulted in a hip or femur fracture and, among them, 31.8% required surgery for prosthesis placement. Statistically significant associations (p < 0.05) with falls were observed for females [prevalence ratio (PR) = 1.26], age group of 75 years or older (PR = 1.21), fear of falling due to defective sidewalks (PR = 1.47), fear of crossing streets (PR = 1.22), diabetes (PR = 1.17), arthritis or rheumatism (PR = 1.29), and depression (PR = 1.53). No significant associations were found for educational level, marital status, hypertension, and perception of violence in the neighborhood.

CONCLUSIONS

The factors associated with falls among older adults are multidimensional, comprising individual characteristics and the urban environment, which indicates the need for intra and intersectoral actions to prevent falls in this population.

Calf circumference: clinical validation for evaluation of muscle mass in the elderly

OBJECTIVE

To validate calf circumference as a technology for assessing muscle mass in the elderly.

METHOD

Cross-sectional study with 132 elderly people from Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil. Decreased muscle mass was determined by the skeletal muscle mass index (IME) using Dual Energy X-Ray Absortometry (DEXA). The cutoff circumferences (CC) cutoff points to indicate muscle mass decrease were estimated by ROC curve, sensitivity, specificity and accuracy.

RESULTS

The most accurate cut-off points for detecting decreased muscle mass in the elderly were 34 cm for men (sensitivity: 71.5%, specificity: 77.4%) and 33 cm for women (sensitivity: 80.0%; specificity: 84.6%).

CONCLUSION

CC can be used as a measure for early identification of muscle mass decrease in routine evaluations of the elderly in primary care.

[Falls requiring use of health services by the older adults: an analysis of the Brazilian National Health Survey, 2013]

The aim was to analyze the prevalence of falls requiring visits to health services and associated sociodemographic factors in the elderly in the Brazilian National Health Survey (PNS), 2013. This was a cross-sectional population-based study using data on 23,815 elderly Brazilians from the PNS 2013 survey. The outcome variable was falls requiring use of a health service. Crude and adjusted analyses were performed with robust Poisson regression, with prevalence ratio as the measure of effect and the respective 95% confidence interval (95%CI). The stepwise-forward method was used for inclusion of the variables in the multivariate model. The prevalence of falls with the need to seek health services was 7.8% (95%CI: 7.3-8.4). The administrative region with the lowest occurrence of falls was the Southeast (7.3%), and Rondônia was the state with the lowest prevalence (5.3%). In the multivariate analysis, falls were associated with age 75 years or older, female sex, and divorced or separated marital status. The nationally representative data produced by the PNS survey can enhance measures to prevent falls throughout Brazil.

Cuidados de Enfermagem na prevenção do tromboembolismo venoso: revisão integrativa

Este estudo buscou identificar na literatura científica quais os cuidados de enfermagem na prevenção do Tromboembolismo Venoso (TEV) em pacientes hospitalizados.Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura realizada nas bases de dados Public/Publish Medline(PUBMED) e Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS). Incluíram-se estudos em inglês, espanhol e português, publicados entre 2006-2016, que apresentassem ações de Enfermagem na prevenção do TEV nos pacientes hospitalizados, para a localização dos estudos utilizou-se o cruzamento dos termos “cuidados de enfermagem”, “prevenção” e “tromboembolismo venoso”. Predominaram os cuidados de enfermagem na prevenção do TEV categorizados em “implementação da avaliação do risco de TEV”, “intervenções mecânicas e físicas” e “ensino ao paciente sobre TEV”.  Esses achados podem contribuir para sistematização da assistência de enfermagem pela ampliação e direcionamento das possibilidades de cuidados, além de favorecer autonomia do enfermeiro, subsidiar pesquisas de validação e reforçar a implementação de Enfermagem Vascular como área de especialidade.

Accuracy of BMI and waist circumference cut-off points to predict obesity in older adults

The main objectives were to analyse the validity and accuracy of Body Mass Index (BMI) and Waist Circumference (WC) to evaluate obesity by excess of body fat in older adults and to identify more adequate cut-off points for this age group. The recommended cut-off points for BMI (25, 27 or 30 kg/m2) and WC (≥ 102 cm for men and ≥ 88 cm for women or ≥ 90cm for men and ≥ 80 cm for women) were compared to the total body densitometry. BF was defined by a value higher than the 90th percentile. Out of the 132 participants, 61% were women and aged between 60 and 91 years. The recommended cut-off points of BMI ≥ 25kg/m2 and BMI ≥ 27 kg/m2 showed similar performances. BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 showed high specificity but low sensitivity to identify BF in men and better performance in women. Conventional WC cut-off points showed low sensitivity and specificity. Based on our analyses, new cut-off points for BMI (25 kg/m2 for men and 26.6 kg/m2 for women) and WC (98.8 cm for men and 77.8cm for women) were proposed. The new cut-off points showed sensitivity and specificity values > 74% and accuracy > 76%. The areas under the curve (ROC) were > 0.86. The new BMI and WC cut-off points proposed in the present study for the diagnosis of obesity in older adults showed the best levels of sensitivity and specificity for this age group.

Patterns of tobacco consumption among residents of a rural settlement: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

Investigate patterns and factors associated with tobacco consumption among residents of a rural settlement.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study conducted between September and November 2014, with 172 residents of a rural settlement in the Midwest region of Brazil. We analyzed as dependent variables tobacco consumption at some point in life; current tobacco consumption; tobacco abuse; and the high risk of nicotine dependence, with sociodemographic variables associated with tobacco use, and we applied the Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) and Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-20).

RESULTS

The prevalence of tobacco use in life, current use, tobacco abuse, and high risk of nicotine dependence were 62.2%, 20.9%, 59.8%, and 10.3%, respectively. Advanced age, low education level, evangelical religion, marijuana use, hypnotic or sedative consumption, and male gender were factors associated with smoking patterns in the settlers.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a high prevalence of smoking patterns, evidencing the need for public policies on tobacco prevention and control in this population.

Total and central obesity in elderly associated with a marker of undernutrition in early life - sitting height-to-stature ratio: A nutritional paradox

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether sitting height-to-stature ratio (SHSR) is associated with total and central obesity in the elderly.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study with 133 noninstitutionalized elderly. High SHSR (≥ 1SD above the mean) was used as a marker of undernutrition (MU) in early life. Poisson's multiple regression was used to determine the association between variables.

RESULTS

The prevalence of high SHSR was 21.0%, total obesity 43.6% and central obesity 50.4%. Elderly with high SHSR presented a statistically significant association with total obesity (PR 1.50; 95% CI 1.04-2.18) and central obesity (PR 1.42; 95% CI 1.03-1.95) after adjustment for sex, age, educational level and income in the multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

The occurrence of total and central obesity in the elderly was associated with a MU in early life. This result indicates that nutritional deficiencies in childhood may increase the risk of obesity in the elderly, a nutritional paradox.

Comparação da funcionalidade de idosos residentes em duas modalidades institucionais

Objetivou-se comparar a prevalência e os fatores associados à incapacidade funcional para ABVD em idosos residentes em duas modalidades institucionais. Estudo transversal com 159 idosos de instituições de longa permanência, sendo 84 residentes em Casas Lares e 75 em Abrigos de Permanência Integral. A incapacidade funcional (IF) foi avaliada pelo Índice de Katz. As associações foram investigadas pelo Teste do χ2 ou Exato de Fischer. A prevalência de IF nas Casas Lares foi 16,7% (IC95%:8,0-28,8) e nos Abrigos de Permanência Integral 56,0% (IC95%44,2-68). Nas duas instituições prevaleceram hipertensão arterial e catarata. Nas Casas Lares, observou-se associação entre IF e idade >80 anos e relato de doenças osteomusculares. A depressão foi estatisticamente significante em ambas instituições. As ABVD mais comprometidas foram manter continência, vestir-se e banhar-se. Os achados demonstram a necessidade de intervenções junto aos idosos institucionalizados, principalmente moradores em instituições de modalidade permanência integral, com foco no controle da depressão.

Polypharmacy, chronic diseases and nutritional markers in community-dwelling older

Polypharmacy is a common practice among the elderly, but few studies have evaluated its association with nutritional markers. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of polypharmacy and its association with nutritional markers, chronic diseases, sociodemographic and health variables. This research is part of the Study Elderly/Goiânia, which evaluated 418 elderly community in a cross-sectional design. Polypharmacy was defined as the use of five or more concomitant medications. The following nutritional markers were investigated: BMI, waist circumference, percentage body fat, weight gain and loss, use of diet, daily consumption of fruits, vegetables, skimmed and whole milk. Multivariate analysis was performed using hierarchical Poisson regression, with significance level set at 5%. The prevalence of polypharmacy was 28% (95%CI 23.1 - 32.5), with a significant association with feminine gender, age range 75 - 79 years, eutrophic nutritional status and obesity, use of diet, poor self-rated health and presence of two, three or more chronic diseases. The high prevalence of polypharmacy and its association with nutritional markers and chronic diseases call the attention for the need of nutritional surveillance and monitoring in the elderly.

[The profile of hospitalizations and associated factors among elderly users of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS)]

This article seeks to establish the causes of hospitalizations among the elderly and identify the prevalence and associated factors. It is a cross-sectional study with 418 elderly users of SUS selected by multistage proportional sampling in the nine Sanitary Districts of Goiânia. Hospitalization was defined as a positive response to the question: "Were you hospitalized in the past year?" The independent variables were collected on a standardized questionnaire. Associations were explored through the prevalence ratio and the respective 95% CI. Multivariate analysis was conducted using hierarchical Poisson regression. The prevalence of hospitalizations was 24.4% and the major causes were circulatory (28.4%), respiratory (9.8%) and infectious and parasitic diseases (9.8%). In multivariate analysis, the following variables continued to be associated with hospitalizations: A/B economic class, reports of five or more diseases and weight loss. The results revealed a high prevalence of hospitalizations and that factors involved are mainly related to socioeconomic issues and health status, which demonstrates that it is necessary to monitor these cases in primary health care to prevent unnecessary hospitalization.

Functional disability in community-dwelling elderly: the role of cataracts and contextual factors

Introduction Cataract arises as a risk factor for functional disability in elderly Objective: To determine differences in functional capacity and contextual factors associated with it in elderly affected and not affected by cataract and association between disability and cataracts.Methods A transversal-type observational study was carried out with 100 community elderly, divided into two groups: elderly affected (n = 50) and not affected by cataracts (n = 50). It was evaluated: activities of daily living (ADL) – Katz Index –, instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) – Lawton scale – and mobility – Short Physical Performance Battery. Functional disability was detected when the elderly were dependent or semi-dependent for one or more IADL or ADL and/or when they presented any difficulty in mobility. Data analysis included absolute and relative frequencies, Chi-squared or Fisher’s exact tests (p < 0.05) and Poisson regression.Results No statistically significant associations were observed between IADL, ADL or mobility disability and cataracts. A statistically significant difference was observed between the disabled elderly affected and not affected by cataract according to contextual factors for ADL regarding age (p = 0.037) and comorbidity (p = 0.037), for mobility regarding the practice of physical activity (p = 0.013), and for IADL (p = 0.001), ADL (p = 0.001) and mobility (p = 0.013) regarding the self-reporting of eyesight problems.Conclusions Besides cataracts, physical inactivity, comorbidity and functional aging itself are contributing factors to the process of disability in elderly, so, the physiotherapy is essential both to prevent as to reverse this process.

[Self-assessment of health by older Brazilians: systematic review of the literature]

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a systematic review of the literature on self-assessment of health status in the elderly population.

METHODS

Medline and LILACS were searched following the Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology. Original articles on self-assessment of health status conducted with older Brazilians were selected. The following were examined: general characteristics of the studies, the prevalence of negative self-assessment of health, the factors associated with this negative self-assessment, the question used to inquire about health status and response categories.

RESULTS

Of 97 studies identified, 11 met the inclusion criteria. Variations between the studies regarding the formulation of the question and answer choices were identified. The prevalence of negative health self-assessment ranged from 12.6 to 51.9% between studies. The most usual dependent variables associated with negative self-assessment of health were the presence of disease, number of medications, monthly family/household income, hospitalizations, medical office visits, difficulty/inability to perform activities of daily living, presence of depressive and anxiety symptoms, and complaints of insomnia.

CONCLUSIONS

The heterogeneity of factors associated with a negative self-evaluation indicates that the health of older individuals is defined by determinants that fall within a broad view of health. The standardization of questions and answers for research on self-assessment of health in older people is recommended, since this information will produce knowledge and allow monitoring and comparison of results, and will therefore be useful in guiding decision-making regarding the formulation of health policies for Brazil and Latin America.

Saúde Mental no contexto da atenção básica: potencialidades, limitações, desafios do Programa Saúde da Família

Esse estudo destaca as possibilidades da inclusão da atenção em saúde mental no Programa de Saúde da Família (PSF). O objetivo foi analisar na literatura nacional as possibilidades, limites e desafios dos profissionais do PSF no enfrentamento das questões concernentes à prática. Revisão de literatura realizada em agosto/2007, na Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, sendo acessadas bases LILACS e SciELO. A busca foi realizada por meio dos descritores “saúde mental”, “família”, e “programa saúde da família”, recuperando apenas artigos publicados em periódicos disponíveis nessas bases entre 1997 e 2007. Identificamos 155 títulos inicialmente que, ao serem analisados possibilitou seleção de 50 artigos (30 LILACS e 20 SciELO). Esse exercício levou a organização do material em dois pontos de convergência: 1. Programa Saúde da Família e a Reabilitação Psicossocial: o que há de comum? 2. Do descompasso aos vôos possíveis: limites, contradições, impasses e possibilidades na atenção em saúde mental no PSF. Concluímos que embora haja tendência de expansão da produção do conhecimento sobre a temática ainda é necessário investimento em iniciativas de superação do modelo assistência, que de fato tenha impacto na prática assistencial.