Search

Background: Sedentary behaviors are prevalent among children and can have a detrimental effect on their health. Little is known about the influence of parental time on children’s sedentary behavior. This study examined the association between parental working hours and children’s sedentary time. Methods: Cross-sectional data were drawn from the Japanese Study on Stratification, Health, Income, and Neighborhood (J-SHINE) in 2010 and 2011. Participants were 886 children aged 7–18 years and their parents. The primary outcome was self-reported sedentary time after school that comprised screen time and non-screen time. The main explanatory variable was parental working hours. We used multiple regression analysis adjusting for sociodemographic factors. Results: Children’s mean sedentary time was 222 (standard deviation [SD], 123) min/day; 144 (SD, 108) min/day screen time and 78 (SD, 65) min/day non-screen time. Children whose mothers worked ≥20 hours/week had 28 (95% CI, 9 to 48) min/day longer sedentary time than children of homemakers (240 min/day vs 214 min/day). The longer maternal working hours, the longer sedentary time (P for trend

Background: Dicarbonyls are highly reactive compounds and major precursors of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Both dicarbonyls and AGEs are associated with development of age-related diseases. Dicarbonyls are formed endogenously but also during food processing. To what extent dicarbonyls from the diet contribute to circulating dicarbonyls and AGEs in tissues is unknown.Objectives: To examine cross-sectional associations of dietary dicarbonyl intake with plasma dicarbonyl concentrations and skin AGEs.Methods: In 2566 individuals of the population-based Maastricht Study (age: 60 +/- 8 y, 50% males, 26% with type 2 diabetes), we estimated habitual intake of the dicarbonyls methylglyoxal (MGO), glyoxal (GO), and 3-deoxyglucosone (3-DG) by combining FFQs with our dietary dicarbonyl database of MGO, GO, and 3-DG concentrations in> 200 commonly consumed food products. Fasting plasma concentrations of MGO, GO, and 3-DG were measured by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Skin AGEs were measured as skin autofluorescence (SAF), using theAGE Reader. Associations of dietary dicarbonyl intake with their respective plasma concentrations and SAF (all standardized) were examined using linear regression models, adjusted for age, sex, potential confounders related to cardiometabolic risk factors, and lifestyle.Results: Median intake of MGO, GO, and 3-DG was 3.6, 3.5, and 17 mg/d, respectively. Coffee was the main dietary source of MGO, whereas this was bread for GO and 3-DG. In the fully adjusted models, dietary MGO was associated with plasma MGO (beta: 0.08; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.13) and SAF (beta: 0.12; 95% CI: 0.07, 0.17). Dietary GO was associated with plasma GO (beta: 0.10; 95% CI: 0.04, 0.16) but not with SAF. 3-DG was not significantly associated with either plasma 3-DG or SAF.Conclusions: Higher habitual intake of dietary MGO and GO, but not 3-DG, was associated with higher corresponding plasma concentrations. Higher intake of MGO was also associated with higher SAF. These results suggest dietary absorption of MGO and GO. Biological implications of dietary absorption of MGO and GO need to be determined. The study has been approved by the institutional medical ethical committee (NL31329.068.10) and the Minister of Health, Welfare and Sports of the Netherlands (Permit 131088-105234-PG).

Background/Objectives Few studies have investigated the association between dietary flavonoid intake, including all major subclasses, and the long-term risk of ischemic heart disease (IHD). We examined whether dietary flavonoid intake associated with IHD incidence, assessing the possible modifying role of sex and smoking, in participants from the Danish Diet, Cancer, and Health study. Subjects/Methods In a cohort study design, 54,496 adults (46.8% male), aged 50–64 years, without a history of IHD, were followed for up to 23 years. Habitual dietary flavonoid intake was estimated from food frequency questionnaires using Phenol-Explorer. Incident cases of IHD were identified within Danish nationwide health registries. Restricted cubic splines in Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine associations between flavonoid intake and IHD risk. Results During follow-up, 5560 IHD events were recorded. No overall association was seen between total flavonoid intake, nor any subclass, and IHD, following adjustment for demographics, lifestyle, and dietary confounders. Stratified by sex and smoking status, higher intakes of specific subclasses associated with lower IHD risk among ever-smokers [Q5 vs. Q1 flavonols HR (95% CI): 0.90 (0.82, 0.99); flavanol oligo+polymers: 0.88 (0.80, 0.97)], but not among never-smokers, nor either sex specifically. Conclusions While we did not find clear evidence that higher habitual dietary flavonoid intake was associated with lower IHD risk, these results do not exclude the possibility that certain subclasses may have a protective role in prevention of IHD among population sub-groups; this was evident among smokers, who are at a higher risk of atherosclerosis.

Background: Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are man-made fluorinated chemicals, widely used in various types of consumer products, resulting in their omnipresence in human populations. The aim of this study was to describe current PFAS levels in European teenagers and to investigate the determinants of serum/plasma con-centrations in this specific age group.Methods: PFAS concentrations were determined in serum or plasma samples from 1957 teenagers (12-18 years) from 9 European countries as part of the HBM4EU aligned studies (2014-2021). Questionnaire data were post -harmonized by each study and quality checked centrally. Only PFAS with an overall quantification frequency of at least 60% (PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS and PFNA) were included in the analyses. Sociodemographic and lifestyle factors were analysed together with food consumption frequencies to identify determinants of PFAS exposure. The variables study, sex and the highest educational level of household were included as fixed factors in the multivariable linear regression models for all PFAS and each dietary variable was added to the fixed model one by one and for each PFAS separately.Results: The European exposure values for PFAS were reported as geometric means with 95% confidence intervals (CI): PFOS [2.13 mu g/L (1.63-2.78)], PFOA ([0.97 mu g/L (0.75-1.26)]), PFNA [0.30 mu g/L (0.19-0.45)] and PFHxS [0.41 mu g/L (0.33-0.52)]. The estimated geometric mean exposure levels were significantly higher in the North and West versus the South and East of Europe. Boys had significantly higher concentrations of the four PFAS compared to girls and significantly higher PFASs concentrations were found in teenagers from households with a higher education level. Consumption of seafood and fish at least 2 times per week was significantly associated with 21% (95% CI: 12-31%) increase in PFOS concentrations and 20% (95% CI: 10-31%) increase in PFNA concentrations as compared to less frequent consumption of seafood and fish. The same trend was observed for PFOA and PFHxS but not statistically significant. Consumption of eggs at least 2 times per week was associated with 11% (95% CI: 2-22%) and 14% (95% CI: 2-27%) increase in PFOS and PFNA concentrations, respectively, as compared to less frequent consumption of eggs. Significantly higher PFOS concentrations were observed for participants consuming offal (14% (95% CI: 3-26%)), the same trend was observed for the other PFAS but not statistically significant. Local food consumption at least 2 times per week was associated with 40% (95% CI: 19-64%) increase in PFOS levels as compared to those consuming local food less frequently.Conclusion: This work provides information about current levels of PFAS in European teenagers and potential dietary sources of exposure to PFAS in European teenagers. These results can be of use for targeted monitoring of PFAS in food. This work was supported by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under Grant agreement No 733032 HBM4EU (www.HBM4EU.eu), and received co-funding from the authors’ organizations: Riksmaten Adolescents: Riksmaten Adolescents was performed by the Swedish Food Agency with financial support from the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency and the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency. NEB II: The Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH) has contributed to funding of the Norwegian Environmental Biobank (NEB). The laboratory measurements have partly been funded by the Research Council of Norway through research projects (275903 and 268465) PCB cohort follow-up: PCB cohort follow-up received additional funding from the Ministry of Health of the Slovak Republic, program 07B0103. BEA: BEA study was funded by the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and the Instituto de Salud Carlos III (SEG 1321/15) SLO-CRP: The Slovenian SLO-CRP study was co-financed by the Joˇzef Stefan Institute program P1- 0143, and a national project “Exposure of children and adolescents to selected chemicals through their habitat environment” (grant agreement No. C2715-16-634802). CROME: CROME study was co-funded by the European Commission research funds of Horizon 2020. ESTEBAN: ESTEBAN study was funded by Sant´e Publique France and the French ministries of Health and the Environment. GerES V-sub: The funding of the German Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection is gratefully acknowledged. FLEHS IV: The Flemish Center of Expertise on Environment and Health is funded by the Government of Flanders, Department of Environment & Spatial Development. We are grateful to all teenagers and their families that participated in the studies. HBM4EU is co-financed under Horizon 2020 (grant agreement No 733032). FLEHS: We thank the field workers from the Provincial Institute of Hygiene and VITO for the sample and data collection. All collaborators of the scientific teams of the Flemish Center of Expertise on Environment and Health (https://www.milieu-en-gezondheid.be/en/about-the-cente r-0) and Karen Van Campenhout and Caroline Teughels from the Flemish Department of Environment & Spatial Development for their valuable input in the field work committee. Riksmaten Adolescents: Personnel from the regional Occupational and Environmental Medicine Divisions in Gothenburg, Linkoping, ¨ Lund, Stockholm, and Umeå are acknowledged for help with blood sampling. Jonathan P. Benskin and colleagues at the Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University are acknowledged for the chemical analyses. PCB cohort follow-up: We wish to thank Dana Jureˇckova, ´ MD, PhD, head of Department of Pediatrics, hospital “Svet zdravia”, Michalovce and her personnel for blood sampling, questionnaire administration and examination of adolescents, personnel from the laboratory of biochemistry and haematology (AlphaMedical) in Michalovce, Slovakia, for blood samples processing and colleagues from RECETOX, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic, for chemical analyses.

Introduction: A human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) test during pregnancy is the gateway to the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV. Estimating the national uptake of HIV tests among pregnant women is an important course of action. Thus, we pooled the information about the national uptake of HIV tests and determined the significant factors among pregnant women in Ethiopia.Methods: We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. We also searched for cross-references to get additional relevant studies, and included cross-sectional, case-control and cohort study studies. We applied a random-effects model meta-analysis to pool the national data of uptake of HIV tests. Galbraith's plot and Egger's regression test were employed to check publication bias, and heterogeneity was assessed using I ² statistics. The protocol registered is found in the PROSPERO database with the registration number CRD42019129166.Results: In total, 22 articles with 13 818 pregnant women study participants were involved. The national uptake of HIV tests among pregnant women was 79.6% (95% CI 73.9-85.4). Living in urban areas (AOR 2.8; 95% CI 1.1-4.6), previous HIV tests (AOR 4.6; 95% CI 1.2-8.0), and comprehensive knowledge on mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) (AOR 2.61; 95% CI 1.5-3.7) and PMTCT of HIV (AOR 2.1; 95% CI 1.5-2.8) were associated with increased practice of HIV tests.Conclusion: This review showed that HIV test coverage among pregnant women was approximately 80% and substantially lower than the national recommendation. Addressing HIV-related health services for rural women and providing health information on MTCT and PMTCT of HIV to increase HIV testing coverage is required.

Background: There is a lack of evidence of the complicated pathways of underlying determinants in the phases of physical activity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate simultaneously a set of potential determinants on the initiation and maintenance phases of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA). Methods: The longitudinal data of 54,359 Korean adults aged 40–69 years from the Health Examinees study were used. The median follow-up duration was 4.2 years. The self-reported durations per week of LTPA was repeatedly assessed. Based on previous longitudinal studies, the potential determinants were selected, and hypothetical models were constructed that consider the complex associations between the determinants. The standardized coefficients for direct and indirect effects were estimated using path analysis to differentiate contributions of mediation from the total effects. Results: In the total population, age, education, chronic diseases, smoking, depression symptoms, and self-rated health were significantly associated with both initiation and maintenance phases. Income (B = 0.025) and social supports (B = 0.019) were associated only with the initiation phase. Waist-to-hip ratio (B = −0.042) and stress (B = −0.035) were associated only with the maintenance phase. After stratifying by sex, the significant effects of education, chronic diseases, and smoking were found only in men. The initiation phase-specific effects of income and social supports and the maintenance phase-specific effects of stress were found only in women. It was estimated that indirect effects contributed approximately 15% of the total effect. Conclusion: The findings suggested that there were initiation- or maintenance-specific determinants of leisure-time physical activity according to sex.

Background Cervical cancer (CC) is the cancer with the most incidents and the leading cause of cancer mortality among women in South Africa. CC screening is one of the most cost-effective control approaches for the disease burden. This study assessed the determinants and individual-level indicators of cervical cancer screening uptake among women of reproductive age in South Africa. Methods We analyzed data from the 2016 South Africa Demographic Health Survey. Our analysis focused on 5903 women (15–49 years). We conducted Chi-square test for bivariate analysis, and multivariate binary logistics regression was used to analyze independent association between individual-level factors and women who have had Pap smear testing. Statistical significance was set at p Results The mean age at cervical cancer screening uptake among women in South Africa was 40.8 years (SD 18.6, range 15–95 years). A majority of the women (39.3%) were aged 45 years and above and 54.6% of them resides in urban settlements. About 35.4% of women (n = 2098) have had a Pap smear test, with 66.5% of them who had a Pap smear test resides in Western Cape province. The proportion of women who had a Pap smear test was significantly higher among those with higher educational attainment (68.7%, p = 0.000), in the rich wealth index (50.1%, p = 0.000), and those with health insurance cover (60.3%, p = 0.000). Pap smear testing was found to be more prevalent among women aged 45+ years, were in the white population group, had higher education, were divorced, and had health insurance cover. The predominance of Pap smear test was 14% higher among women who are working in the professional/formal sector (AOR; 1.38, 95% CI; 1.14–1.69). The uptake of Pap smear test was also higher among women aged 35–44 years. Conclusions The prevalence of cervical cancer uptake is substantially low among women aged 15–24 years in South Africa and shows a degree of between-provinces differences. Therefore, heath educational interventions aimed at increasing the uptake of cervical cancer screening services in South Africa are critically needed.

Objectives: Population‐specific studies of vaccine uptake in pregnancy are necessary to monitor progress and ensure enablers to vaccination are locally relevant. We aimed to determine the uptake of influenza and pertussis vaccine during pregnancy in women in south‐east Queensland and the reasons why women were choosing not to vaccinate. Methods: A secondary analysis of data collected in a prospective cohort study. Data were collected at enrolment during pregnancy and within six weeks of giving birth. The primary outcome was the proportion of women vaccinated during pregnancy. Results: Among 310 pregnant women, 45.8% and 69.7% were vaccinated against influenza and pertussis, respectively; 123 (39.7%) had received both vaccines. The common predictor of vaccine uptake for influenza, pertussis or both was having had any vaccine in the 12 months prior to pregnancy. Not considering the vaccines necessary and perceptions of the risk of infection were common reasons for not intending to vaccinate. Conclusions: Antenatal vaccine uptake remains suboptimal in women in south‐east Queensland. Barriers to vaccination during pregnancy are complex and vary depending on context and population. Implications for public health: More efforts are needed to promote antenatal uptake, particularly for influenza vaccine and having both the influenza and pertussis vaccines during pregnancy.

While it is known that women with a previous history of gestational diabetes mellitus (post-GDM) have a higher risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS), evidence of lifestyle practices from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is still scarce. This study aimed to determine the factors associated with MetS in women post-GDM. This cross-sectional study involved 157 women post-GDM (mean age 34.8 ± 5.6 years) sampled from Selangor, Malaysia. We collected data on sociodemographic characteristics and obstetric history. Food intake was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire, and dietary patterns were derived from principal component analysis. MetS was diagnosed according to the 2009 Harmonized criteria. The prevalence of MetS in this study was 22.3%. Western dietary pattern consumption was correlated with MetS, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and triglyceride levels. Independent factors associated with MetS were lower education level (odds ratio, OR 4.017, p = 0.007), pre-pregnancy BMI (OR 1.192, p = 0.002), and Caesarean delivery (OR 3.798, p = 0.009). The study identified the maternal and dietary factors associated with MetS in women post-GDM in Malaysia. Community-based interventions that include dietary modification are warranted to prevent MetS and its complications, thus helping to reduce the overall disease burden.

Currently, pain is considered the fifth vital sign, and its effective relief is a priority in many surgical departments. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of selected factors on the intensity of postoperative pain after orthopedic and gynecological procedures. The study was conducted in a group of 200 patients undergoing orthopedic and gynecological procedures at the County Hospital in Nisko between August 2017 and January 2018. The method of estimation and document analysis was applied in the course of the study. A standardized tool was used—Polish adaptation of the Melzack Pain Questionnaire (MPQ), an individual documentation of patients and a scientific and research questionnaire developed by the authors. The tests were conducted for three consecutive days from the day of the operation. The strongest pain immediately after surgery was experienced by the patients after general endotracheal anesthesia, and the mildest after full intravenous short-term anesthesia (p < 0.05). Procedures lasting more than 60 min were associated with greater pain intensity on all tested days. The sex of the patient did not significantly affect the level of the perceived intensity of postoperative pain (p > 0.05). The highest intensity of pain occurred on day 0 after surgery, with a declining trend in the following days (p < 0.001). The highest intensity of postoperative pain was caused by gynecological procedures as well as laparotomy and arthroplasty (p < 0.001). The variability of the results indicates the need for an individual approach to each patient, both in pain assessment and treatment. Therefore, continuous improvement of the quality of health services provided in accordance with the guidelines for pain relief is necessary.

Background Adolescent pregnancy increases the risk of disability and death due to unsafe abortion, prolonged labour and delivery, and complications after birth. Availability of accurate data is important to guide decision-making related to adolescent sexual reproductive health (ASRH). This study analyses the trends in prevalence and factors associated with adolescent pregnancy in Kenya using data from three national Demographic Health Surveys (2003, 2008/2009, 2014). Methods Our analysis focused on a subsample of data collected from women aged 20 to 24 years. A trend analysis was performed to establish a change in the rate of adolescent pregnancy in 2003, 2008/2009, and 2014 survey data points. Binary Logistic regression and pooled regression analysis were used to explore factors associated with adolescent pregnancy. Results The percentage of women aged 20 to 24 years who reported their first pregnancy between ages 15 and 19 years was 42% in 2003 and 42.2% in 2009 but declined to 38.9% in 2014. Using regression analyses, we established that education status, marital status, religion and wealth quintile were associated with adolescent pregnancy. Trend analysis shows that there was an overall decreasing trend in adolescent pregnancy between 2003 and 2014. Conclusion Although Kenya has made strides in reducing the prevalence of adolescent pregnancy in the last decade, much more needs to be done to further reduce the burden, which remains high. Definition Adolescents: Although WHO defines the adolescence period as being 10–19 years, this paper focuses on the late adolescent period, 15–19 years, here in referred to as adolescents.

Individuals with Rett Syndrome (RTT), a rare neurodevelopmental disorder, present disordered breathing during wakefulness. Whilst findings on breathing during sleep are contradictory, the relation between sleep breathing and their clinical features, genetic characteristics, age, and sleep phase is rarely investigated, which is the objective of this study. Overnight polysomnography (PSG) was performed. Sleep macrostructure parameters were compared between the RTT subjects with and without sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). The association between the apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) with age at PSG was tested. Particularly for RTT subjects with SDB, the respiratory indexes in REM and NREM sleep were compared. Stratified analyses per clinical characteristics, genetic characteristics, and clinical features’ severity were performed. Non-parametric statistics were applied. A sample of 11 female RTT subjects, aged 8.69 ± 5.29 years with ten confirmed with MECP2 mutations, were studied. The average AHI was 3.94 ± 1.19/h TST, of which eight (72.73%) had obstructive sleep apnea, i.e., six in 1/h TST ≤ AHI ≤ 5/h TST, and two in AHI > 5/h TST. The mean SpO2% was 81.00 ± 35.15%. The AHI was not significantly correlated with their age at PSG (rs = −0.15, p = 0.67). Sleep macrostructure in SDB-absent and SDB-present groups was not different. Respiratory indexes in those with obstructive sleep apnea showed no difference between REM and NREM sleep nor any of the strata. In our clinical sample, more than half of the RTT subjects with MECP2 mutations had obstructive sleep apnea in both NREM and REM sleep which was unrelated to their clinical features. Our results also indicated hypoxemia throughout nocturnal sleep in RTT. To conclude, our results suggest that disordered breathing during sleep is prevalently present in RTT as an independent clinical feature.

Objectives Chronic widespread musculoskeletal pain (CWP) is a characteristic symptom of fibromyalgia, which has been shown to be associated with an altered gut microbiome. Microbiome studies to date have not examined the milder CWP phenotype specifically nor have they explored the role of raised BMI. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the microbiome is abnormal in CWP. Methods CWP was assessed using a standardized screening questionnaire in female volunteers from the TwinsUK cohort including 113 CWP cases and 1623 controls. The stool microbiome was characterized using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and amplicon sequence variants, and associations with CWP examined using linear mixed-effects models adjusting for BMI, age, diet, family relatedness and technical factors. Results Alpha diversity was significantly lower in CWP cases than controls (Mann–Whitney test, P-values 2.3e-04 and 1.2e-02, for Shannon and Simpson indices respectively). The species Coprococcus comes was significantly depleted in CWP cases (Padj = 3.04e-03). A genome-wide association study (GWAS) performed for C. comes in TwinsUK followed by meta-analysis with three Dutch cohorts (total n = 3521) resulted in nine suggestive regions, with the most convincing on chromosome 4 near the TRAM1L1 gene (rs76957229, P = 7.4e-8). A Mendelian randomization study based on the results of the GWAS did not support a causal role for C. comes on the development of CWP. Conclusions We have demonstrated reduced diversity in the microbiome in CWP, indicating an involvement of the gut microbiota in CWP; prospectively the microbiome may offer therapeutic opportunities for this condition.

Background Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a growing global health problem with faster progression in developing countries such as Iran. Here we aimed to evaluate the prevalence and determinants of CKD stage III+. Methods This research is part of the Khuzestan Comprehensive Health Study (KCHS), a large observational population-based cross-sectional study in which 30,041 participants aged 20 to 65 were enrolled. CKD was determined with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) less than 60 ml/min/1.73m2, based on two equations of Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) and Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI). The multivariate logistic regression was used to evaluate the CKD stage III+ determinants. Results Prevalence of CKD stage III+ is estimated to be 7.1, 5.5, and 5.4% based on MDRD, CKD-EPI, and combination of both equations, respectively. More than 89% of CKD subjects aged higher than 40 years. In regression analysis, age more than 40 years had the strongest association with CKD stage III+ probability (OR: 8.23, 95% CI: 6.91–9.18). Higher wealth score, hypertension, High-Density Lipoprotein levels less than 40 mg/dl, and higher waist to hip ratio were all associated with CKD stage III+ while Arab ethnicity showed a protective effect (OR: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.57–0.78). Conclusion Our findings provide detailed information on the CKD stage III+ and its determinants in the southwest region of Iran. Due to strong association between age and CKD stage III+, within a few decades we might expect a huge rise in the CKD prevalence.

Background Childhood morbidities such as diarrhea and pneumonia are the leading causes of death in Ethiopia. Appropriate healthcare-seeking behavior of mothers for common childhood illnesses could prevent a significant number of these early deaths; however, little nation-wide research has been conducted in Ethiopia to assess mothers’ healthcare-seeking behavior for their under five children. Methods The study used the Ethiopian Demographic and Health Surveys (EDHS) data. The EDHS is a cross sectional survey conducted in 2016 on a nationally representative sample of 10,641 respondents. The main determinants of care-seeking during diarrhea and acute respiratory infection (ARI) episodes were assessed using multiple logistic regression analyses while adjusting for complex survey design. Results Only 43% and 35% of households sought medical attention for their children in episodes of diarrhea and ARI, respectively, during a reference period of 2 weeks before the survey. The odds of seeking care for diarrhea are lower for non-working mothers versus working mothers. The likelihood of seeking care for diarrhea or ARI is higher for literate fathers compared to those with no education. The place of delivery for the child, receiving postnatal checkup and getting at least one immunization in the past determined the likelihood of seeking care for ARI, but not for diarrhea. The odds of seeking care are higher for both diarrhea and ARI among households that are headed by females and where mothers experienced Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) violence. Religion and types of family structure are also significant factors of seeking care for diarrhea episodes, but not for ARI. Conclusions The findings call for more coordinated efforts to ensure equitable access to health care services focusing on mothers living in deprived household environment. Strengthening partnerships with public facilities, private health care practitioners, and community-based organizations in rural areas would help further improve access to the services.

Background In Madagascar, maternal mortality remains stable and high (426 deaths per 100,000 live births). This situation is mainly due to a delay or lack of use of maternal healthcare services. Problems related to maternal healthcare services are well documented in Madagascar, but little information related to maternal healthcare seeking is known. Thus, this paper aims to identify and analyze the factors that influence the utilization of maternal services, specifically, the use of antenatal care (ANC) during pregnancy and the use of skilled birth attendants (SBAs) at delivery. Method We used quantitative and qualitative approaches in the study. Two communes of the Vakinankaratra region, which are located in the highlands, were the settings. Data collection occurred from October 2016 to July 2017. A total of 245 pregnant women were included and followed up in the quantitative survey, and among them, 35 participated in in-depth interviews(IDIs). Logistic regressions were applied to explore the influencing factors of antenatal and delivery healthcare seeking practices through thematic qualitative analysis. Results Among the 245 women surveyed, 13.9% did not attend any ANC visits. School level, occupation and gravidity positively influenced the likelihood of attending one or more ANC visits. The additional use of traditional caregivers remained predominant and was perceived as potentially complementary to medical care. Nine in ten (91%) women expressed a preference for delivery at healthcare facilities (HFs), but 61% of births were assisted by a skilled birth attendant (SBA).The school level; the frequency of ANCs; the origin region; and the preference between modern or traditional care influenced the use of SBAs at delivery. A lack of preparation (financial and logistics problems) and women’s low involvement in decision making at delivery were the main barriers to giving birth at HFs. Conclusion The use of maternal healthcare services is starting to gain ground, although many women and their relatives still use traditional caregivers at the same time. Relatives play a crucial role in maternal healthcare seeking. It would be necessary to target women’s relatives for awareness-raising messages about ANC and childbirth in healthcare facilities and to support and formalize collaborations between traditional healers and biomedical caregivers.

Rationale & Objective: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has a heritable component. We aimed to quantify familial aggregation of CKD in the general population and assess the extent to which kidney traits could be explained by genetic and environmental factors.Study Design: Cross-sectional 3-generation family study.Setting & Participants: Data were collected at entry into the Lifelines Cohort Study from a sample of the general population of the northern Netherlands, composed predominantly of individuals of European ancestry.Exposure: Family history of CKD.Outcomes: The primary outcome was CKD, defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)Analytical Approach: Familial aggregation of CKD was assessed by calculating the recurrence risk ratio (RRR), using adapted Cox proportional hazards models. Heritability of continuous kidney-related traits was estimated using linear mixed models and defined as the ratio of the additive genetic variance to total phenotypic variance. All models were adjusted for age, sex, and known risk factors for kidney disease.Results: Among 155,911 participants with available eGFR data, the prevalence of CKD was 1.19% (1,862 cases per 155,911). The risk of CKD in those with an affected first-degree relative was 3 times higher than the risk in the total sample ( RRR, 3.04 [95% CI, 2.26-4.09). In those with an affected spouse, risk of CKD was also higher (RRR, 1.56 [95% CI, 1.20-1.96]), indicative of shared environmental factors and/or assortative mating. Heritability estimates of eGFR, UAE, and UACR were 44%, 20%, and 18%, respectively. For serum urea, creatinine, and uric acid, estimates were 31%, 37%, and 48%, respectively, whereas estimates for serum electrolytes ranged from 22% to 28%.Limitations: Use of estimated rather than measured GFR. UAE data only available in a subsample.Conclusions: In this large population-based family study, a positive family history was strongly associated with increased risk of CKD. We observed moderate to high heritability of kidney traits and related biomarkers. These results indicate an important role of genetic factors in CKD risk.

Background Postpartum women are at higher risk of depression compared to the general population. Despite the mental health benefits an active lifestyle can provide, postpartum women engage in low physical activity and high screen time. Very little research has investigated the social ecological (i.e. individual, social and physical environmental) influences on physical activity and screen time amongst postpartum women, particularly amongst those with depressive symptoms. Therefore, this study sought to examine the influences on physical activity and screen time amongst postpartum women with heightened depressive symptoms. Methods 20 mothers (3–9 months postpartum) participating in the Mums on the Move pilot randomised controlled trial who reported being insufficiently active and experiencing heightened depressive symptoms participated in semi-structured telephone interviews exploring their perceptions of the key influences on their physical activity and screen time across various levels of the social ecological model. Strategies for promoting physical activity and reducing screen time were explored with participants. Thematic analyses were undertaken to construct key themes from the qualitative data. Results Findings showed that postpartum women with depressive symptoms reported individual (i.e. sleep quality, being housebound, single income), social (i.e. childcare, social support from partner and friends) and physical environmental (i.e. weather, safety in the local neighbourhood) influences on physical activity. Postpartum women reported individual (i.e. screen use out of habit and addiction, enjoyment) and social (i.e. positive role modelling, social isolation) influences on screen-time, but no key themes targeting the physical environmental influences were identified for screen time. Strategies suggested by women to increase physical activity included mother’s physical activity groups, home-based physical activity programs and awareness-raising. Strategies to reduce screen time included the use of screen time tracker apps, increasing social connections and awareness-raising. Conclusions Amongst postpartum women with heightened depressive symptoms, influences on physical activity encompassed all constructs of the social ecological model. However, screen time was only perceived to be influenced by individual and social factors. Intervention strategies targeting predominantly individual and social factors may be particularly important for this high-risk group. These findings could assist in developing targeted physical activity and screen time interventions for this cohort.

Background Preconception care (PCC) is a series of biomedical, mental, and psycho-social health services provided to women and a couple before pregnancy and throughout subsequent pregnancies for desired outcomes. Millions of women and new-borns have died in low-income countries due to impediments that arise before and exaggerate during pregnancies that are not deal with as part of pre-conception care. To the best of our knowledge, however, there is a lack of information about preconception care practice and its determinants in southern Ethiopia, including the study area. This study was therefore planned to assess the practice of preconception care and its determinants among mothers who recently gave birth in Wolkite town, southern Ethiopia, in 2020. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February 1 to 30, 2020. A total of 600 mothers who have given birth in the last 12 months have been randomly selected. A two-stage sampling technique was employed. For data collection, a pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire was used. The data was encoded and entered into Epi-Data version 3.1 and exported for analysis to SPSS version 23. Household wealth status was determined through the application of principal component analysis(PCA). The practice PCC was considered as a count variable and measured as a minimum score of 0 and a maximum of 10. A bivariable statistical analysis was performed through analysis of variance (ANOVA) and independent t-tests and variables with a p-value of Results Of the sampled 600 participants, 591 took part in the study, which yielded a response rate of 98.8%.The mean (± SD) score of the practice of PCC was 3.94 (± 1.98) with minimum and maximum scores of 0 and 10 respectively. Only 6.4% (95%CI: 4.6, 8.6) of mothers received all selected items of PCC services. Thecommonest item received by 67.2% of mothers was Folic acid supplementation, while 16.1% of mothers received the least item of optimizing psychological health. Education status of mother[AOR 0.74, 95%CI 0.63, 0.97], time spent to access nearby health facilities [AOR 0.69, 95%CI 0.58, 0.83], availability of PCC unit [AOR 1.46; 95%CI 1.17, 1.67], mother’s knowledge on PCC [AOR 1.34, 95%CI 1.13, 1.65], being a model household [AOR 1.31, 95%CI 1.18, 1.52] and women’s autonomy in decision making [AOR 0.75, 95%CI 0.64, 0.96] were identified as significant predictors of practice of PCC. Conclusion The uptake of WHO-recommended PCC service elements in the current study area was found to be unsatisfactory. Stakeholders must therefore increase their efforts to align PCC units with existing MNCH service delivery points, improve women's decision-making autonomy, and focus on behavioral change communication to strengthen PCC practice. Plain language summary Preconception care (PCC) is a series of biomedical, mental, and psycho-social health services provided to women and a couple before pregnancy and throughout subsequent pregnancies for better endings. The main goal of the PCC is to improve maternal and child health outcomes, by-promoting wellness and providing preventive care. It can also be seen as an earlier chance for teenage girls, mothers, and children to live a better and longer-term healthy life. Pieces of PCC service packages suggested by the World Health Organization(WHO) are, micronutrient supplementation (Folate supplementation), infectious disease (STI/HIV) screening and testing, chronic disease screening and management, healthy diet therapy, vaccination, prevention of substance use (cessation of cigarette smoking and too much alcohol consumption), optimizing psychological health, counseling on the importance of exercise and reproductive health planning and implementation. Millions of women and new-borns have died in low-income countries due to impediments that arise before and exaggerate during pregnancies that are not deal with as part of pre-conception care. To the best of our knowledge, however, there is a lack of information about preconception care practice and its determinants in southern Ethiopia, including the study area. This study was therefore planned to evaluate the practice of preconception care and its determinants among mothers who recently gave birth in Wolkite town, southern Ethiopia, in 2020. Mothers who have given birth in the last 12 months have been randomly selected Household wealth status was determined through the application of principal component analysis(PCA). To see the weight of each explanatory variable on PCC, generalized linear regression with a Poisson type was done. Accordingly, the Education status of the mother, time spent to access nearby health facilities, availability of PCC unit, mother’s knowledge on PCC, being a model household, and women’s autonomy in decision making were identified as significant predictors of practice of PCC. Stakeholders must therefore increase their efforts to align PCC units with existing MNCH service delivery points, improve women's decision-making autonomy, and focus on behavioral change communication to strengthen PCC practice.

Background The Chlamydia trachomatis bacterial load could have impact on transmission and sequelae. This is the first study providing comparison of C. trachomatis load at 3 anatomic sites estimated by cycle quantification (Cq) values. Methods Data from 7900 C. trachomatis-positive samples were included (2012–2018). Cq value was used as an inversely proportional measure for C. trachomatis load. Multivariable linear regression analyses assessed differences in mean Cq values. Results Vaginal swabs had the lowest Cq values (31.0) followed by urine (32.5), anorectal swabs (34.0), and oropharyngeal swabs (36.8) (P < .001). Men and women had similar oropharyngeal (36.4 vs 37.3; P = .13) and anorectal (34.2 vs 33.9; P = .19) Cq values. Men (32.2) and women (30.7) aged Conclusions Men and women have a similar C. trachomatis load at extragenital locations arguing for similar transmission potential and clinical relevance. Older patients and HIV-coinfected patients had lower C. trachomatis load, suggesting exposure to previous C. trachomatis infections potentially leading to partial immunity reducing load.

Background Globally, Coronavirus disease-19 has created unprecedented challenges to public health. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at risk of COVID-19 because of their profession. There are limited studies conducted in Ethiopia among HCWs regarding their compliance with COVID-19 preventive measures. Therefore, this study intended to assess HCWs’ compliance with measures to prevent COVID-19, and its potential determinants in public hospitals in Western Ethiopia. Methods A self-administered, multicenter hospital-based cross-sectional survey was proposed to 422 randomly selected HCWs working in seven public hospitals in Western Ethiopia identified as COVID-19 referral centers. Data were entered into Epi Data version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 24. Binary logistic regression was used to identify potential determinants of outcome variables at p-value Results Out of 422 completed questionnaires, the overall HCWs’ compliance with COVID-19 prevention is 22% (n = 404). In multivariate regression analysis, factors such as spending most of caring time at bedside (AOR = 1.94, 95%CI, 1.06–3.55), receiving training on infection prevention/COVID-19 (AOR = 1.86, 95%CI, 1.04–3.33), reading materials on COVID-19 (AOR = 2.04, 95%CI, 1.14–3.63) and having support from hospital management (AOR = 2.09, 95%CI, 1.20–3.64) were found to be significantly associated with COVID-19 preventive measures. Furthermore, inadequate supplies of appropriate personal protective equipment (83.2%), insufficient supportive medications (78.5%), and lack of provision of adequate ventilation (77.7%) were the barriers to COVID-19 prevention most frequently mentioned by participants. Conclusion Our findings highlight HCWs’ poor compliance with COVID-19 preventive measures. Providing information and refreshing training to improve the level of healthcare workers’ adherence with COVID-19 prevention is as imperative as increasing staff commitment to supply resources necessary to protect HCWs and to reduce healthcare-associated infections transmission of SARS-COV-2.

Background Defining socio-demographic factors, clinical presentations and underlying diseases associated with COVID-19 severity could be helpful in its management. This study aimed to further clarify the determinants and clinical risk factors of the disease severity in patients infected with COVID-19. Methods A multi-centre descriptive study on all patients who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the province of Tehran from March 2020 up to Dec 2020 was conducted. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, clinical presentations, comorbidities, and the health outcomes of 205,654 patients were examined. Characteristics of the study population were described. To assess the association of study variables with the disease severity, the Chi-Squared test and Multiple Logistic Regression model were applied. Results The mean age of the study population was 52.8 years and 93,612 (45.5%) were women. About half of the patients have presented with low levels of blood oxygen saturation. The ICU admission rate was 17.8% and the overall mortality rate was 10.0%. Older age, male sex, comorbidities including hypertension, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases other than asthma, chronic liver diseases, chronic kidney diseases, chronic neurological disorders, and HIV/AIDS infection were risk markers of poor health outcome. Clinical presentations related with worse prognosis included fever, difficulty breathing, impaired consciousness, and cutaneous manifestations. Conclusion These results might alert physicians to pay attention to determinants and risk factors associated with poor prognosis in patients with COVID-19. In addition, our findings aid decision makers to emphasise on vulnerable groups in the public health strategies that aim at preventing the spread of the disease and its mortalities.

BackgroundThe burden of chronic kidney disease in Africa is three to four times higher compared to high-income countries and the cost of treatment is beyond the reach of most affected persons. The best treatment for end stage renal disease is kidney transplantation which is not available in most African countries. As kidney transplantation surgery is emerging in Ghana, this study assessed factors which could influence the willingness of patients with chronic kidney disease to accept it as a mode of treatment.MethodsThis cross-sectional survey was carried out among patients with chronic kidney disease in Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. A consecutive sampling method was used to recruit consenting patients. A structured questionnaire and standardized research instruments were used to obtain information on demographic, socio-economic characteristics, knowledge about transplantation, perception of transplantation, religiosity and spirituality. Logistic regression model was used to assess the determinants of willingness to accept a kidney transplant.Results342 CKD patients participated in the study of which 56.7% (n = 194) were male. The mean age of the participants was 50.24 ± 17.08 years. The proportion of participants who were willing to accept a kidney transplant was 67.3% (95%CI: 62.0–72.2%). The factors which influenced participants’ willingness to accept this treatment included; willingness to attend a class on kidney transplantation (p p p p < 0.005). The barriers for accepting kidney transplantation were anticipated complications of transplant surgery and financial constraints.ConclusionMore than two-thirds of CKD patients were willing to accept a kidney transplant and this is influenced by multiple factors. Government health agencies must consider full or partial coverage of kidney transplantation through the existing national health insurance scheme. Further, efficient educational programmes are required to improve both patients’ and physicians’ knowledge on the importance of kidney transplantation in the management of end stage renal disease in Ghana.

Background Recent attempts of active disinvestment (i.e. withdrawal of reimbursement by means of a policy decision) of reimbursed healthcare interventions in the Netherlands have differed in their outcome: some attempts were successful, with interventions actually being disinvested. Other attempts were terminated at some point, implying unsuccessful disinvestment. This study aimed to obtain insight into recent active disinvestment processes, and to explore what aspects affect their outcome. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted from January to December 2018 with stakeholders (e.g. patients, policymakers, physicians) who were involved in the policy process of five cases for which the full or partial withdrawal of reimbursement was considered in the Netherlands between 2007 and 2017: benzodiazepines, medication for Fabry disease, quit smoking programme, psychoanalytic therapy and maternity care assistance. These cases covered both interventions that were eventually disinvested and interventions for which reimbursement was maintained after consideration. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, double coded and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results The 37 interviews showed that support for disinvestment from stakeholders, especially from healthcare providers and policymakers, strongly affected the outcome of the disinvestment process. Furthermore, the institutional role of stakeholders as legitimized by the Dutch health insurance system, their financial interests in maintaining or discontinuing reimbursement, and the possibility to relieve the consequences of disinvestment for current patients affected the outcome of the disinvestment process as well. A poor organization of patient groups may make it difficult for patients to exert pressure, which may contribute to successful disinvestment. No evidence was found of a consistent role of the formal Dutch package criteria (i.e. effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, necessity and feasibility) in active disinvestment processes. Conclusions Contextual factors as well as the possibility to relieve the consequences of disinvestment for current patients are important determinants of the outcome of active disinvestment processes. These results provide insight into active disinvestment processes and their determinants, and provide guidance to policymakers for a potentially more successful approach for future active disinvestment processes.

Background The knowledge of ovulatory cycle (KOC) is the base for natural family planning methods, yet few studies have paid attention to women’s KOC. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of correct KOC and its determinants among women of childbearing age in Haiti. Methods Data from the nationally representative cross-sectional Haiti Demographic and Health Survey 2016/17 were used. STATA/SE version 14 was employed to analyse the data by computing descriptive statistics, Chi‑square, and binary logistic regression model to assess the socio-economic and demographic predictors of correct KOC. P-value less than 0.05 was taken as a significant association. Results Out of 14,371 women of childbearing age who constituted our sample study, 24.1% (95% CI 23.4–24.8) had correct KOC. In addition, the findings showed that place of residence, respondent’s education level, wealth index, currently working, husband/partner’s education level, contraceptive use, exposure to mass media FP messages, and fieldworker visit were significantly associated with correct KOC. Conclusion Policies should include increasing the literacy at community level as well as of individual women and their partners. Moreover, increasing awareness about family planning should be prioritized, especially for women from poor households and rural areas.

Background Physical activity (PA) is known to be beneficial for health, but adherence to international PA guidelines is low across different subpopulations. Interventions have been designed to stimulate PA of different target groups by influencing relevant psycho-social determinants, essentially based on a combination of the Integrated Model for Change, the Theory of Planned Behaviour, its successor the Reasoned Action Approach and the self-determination theory. The current study investigates the pathways through which interventions influence PA. Further, gender differences in pathways of change are studied. Methods An integrated dataset of five different randomised controlled trial intervention studies is analysed by estimating a Bayesian network. The data include measurements, at baseline and at 3, 6 (short-term), and 12 (long-term) months after the baseline, of important socio-cognitive determinants of PA, demographic factors, and PA outcomes. A fragment is extracted from the Bayesian network consisting of paths between the intervention variable, determinants, and short- and long-term PA outcomes. For each relationship between variables, a stability indicator and its mutual information are computed. Such a model is estimated for the full dataset, and in addition such a model is estimated based only on male and female participants’ data to investigate gender differences. Results The general model (for the full dataset) shows complex paths, indicating that the intervention affects short-term PA via the direct determinants of intention and habit and that self-efficacy, attitude, intrinsic motivation, social influence concepts, planning and commitment have an indirect influence. The model also shows how effects are maintained in the long-term and that previous PA behaviour, intention and attitude pros are direct determinants of long-term PA. The gender-specific models show similarities as well as important differences between the structures of paths for the male- and female subpopulations. For both subpopulations, intention and habit play an important role for short-term effects and maintenance of effects in the long-term. Differences are found in the role of self-efficacy in paths of behaviour change and in the fact that attitude is relevant for males, whereas planning plays a crucial role for females. The average of these differences in subpopulation mechanisms appears to be presented in the general model. Conclusions While previous research provided limited insight into how interventions influence PA through relevant determinants, the Bayesian network analyses show the relevance of determinants mentioned by the theoretical framework. The model clarifies the role that different determinants play, especially in interaction with each other. The Bayesian network provides new knowledge about the complex working mechanism of interventions to change PA by giving an insightful overview of influencing paths. Furthermore, by presenting subpopulation-specific networks, the difference between the influence structure of males and females is illustrated. These new insights can be used to improve interventions in order to enhance their effects. To accomplish this, we have developed a new methodology based on a Bayesian network analysis which may be applicable in various other studies.

Worldwide, adherence to national guidelines for physical activity (PA), and fruit and vegetable consumption is recommended to promote health and reduce the risk for (chronic) disease. This study reports on the effectiveness of various social-cognitive interventions to improve adherence to guidelines and the revealed adherence predictors. Participants (n = 1,629), aged 45–70 years, randomly selected and recruited in 2005–2006 from 23 Dutch general practices, were randomized (centralized stratified allocation) to four groups to receive a 12-month lifestyle intervention targeting guideline adherence for PA and fruit and vegetable consumption. Study groups received either four computer-tailored print communication (TPC) letters (n = 405), four telephone motivational interviewing (TMI) sessions (n = 407), a combined intervention (two TPC letters and two TMI sessions, n = 408), or no intervention (control group, n = 409). After the baseline assessment, all parties were aware of the treatment groups. Outcomes were measured with self-report postal questionnaires at baseline, 25, 47 and 73 weeks. For PA, all three interventions were associated with better guideline adherence than no intervention. Odds ratios for TPC, TMI and the combined intervention were 1.82 (95% CI 1.31; 2.54), 1.57 (95% CI 1.13; 2.18), and 2.08 (95% CI 1.50; 2.88), respectively. No pedometer effects were found. For fruit and vegetable consumption, TPC seemed superior to those in the other groups. Odd ratio for fruit and vegetable consumption were 1.78 (95% CI 1.32; 2.41) and 1.73 (95% CI 1.28; 2.33), respectively. For each behaviour, adherence was predicted by self-efficacy expectations, habit strength and stages of change, whereas sex, awareness and the number of action plans predicted guideline adherence for fruit and vegetable intake. The season predicted the guideline adherence for PA and fruit consumption. The odds ratios revealed were equivalent to modest effects sizes, although they were larger than those reported in systematic reviews. This study indicated that less resource intensive interventions might have the potential for a large public health impact when widely implemented. The strengths of this study were the participation of lower educated adults and evaluation of maintenance effects. (Trial NL1035, 2007-09-06).

BackgroundEvery day in 2017, approximately 810 women died from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth, with 99% of these maternal deaths occurring in low and lower-middle-income countries. Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) alone accounts for roughly 66%. If pregnant women gained recommended ANC (Antenatal Care), these maternal deaths could be prevented. Still, many women lack recommended ANC in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed at determining the pooled prevalence and determinants of recommended ANC utilization in SSA.MethodsWe used the most recent standard demographic and health survey data from the period of 2006 to 2018 for 36 SSA countries. A total of 260,572 women who had at least one live birth 5 years preceding the survey were included in this study. A meta-analysis of DHS data of the Sub-Saharan countries was conducted to generate pooled prevalence, and a forest plot was used to present it. A multilevel multivariable logistic regression model was fitted to identify determinants of recommended ANC utilization. The AOR (Adjusted Odds Ratio) with their 95% CI andp-value ≤0.05 was used to declare the recommended ANC utilization determinates.ResultsThe pooled prevalence of recommended antenatal care utilization in sub-Saharan Africa countries were 58.53% [95% CI: 58.35, 58.71], with the highest recommended ANC utilization in the Southern Region of Africa (78.86%) and the low recommended ANC utilization in Eastern Regions of Africa (53.39%). In the multilevel multivariable logistic regression model region, residence, literacy level, maternal education, husband education, maternal occupation, women health care decision autonomy, wealth index, media exposure, accessing health care, wanted pregnancy, contraceptive use, and birth order were determinants of recommended ANC utilization in Sub-Saharan Africa.ConclusionThe coverage of recommended ANC service utilization was with high disparities among the region. Being a rural residence, illiterate, low education level, had no occupation, low women autonomy, low socioeconomic status, not exposed to media, a big problem to access health care, unplanned pregnancy, not use of contraceptive were determinants of women that had no recommended ANC utilization in SSA. This study evidenced the existence of a wide gap between SSA regions and countries. Special attention is required to improve health accessibility, utilization, and quality of maternal health services.

BackgroundHousehold surveys remain important sources of maternal and child health data, but until now, standard surveys such as Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) have not collected information on maternity care for women who have experienced a stillbirth. Thus, nationally representative data are lacking to inform programmes to address the millions of stillbirths which occur annually.MethodsThe EN-INDEPTH population-based survey of women of reproductive age was undertaken in five Health and Demographic Surveillance System sites in Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau and Uganda (2017–2018). All women answered a full birth history with additional questions on pregnancy losses (FBH+) or full pregnancy history (FPH). A sub-sample, including all women reporting a recent stillbirth or neonatal death, was asked additional maternity care questions. These were evaluated using descriptive measures. Associations between stillbirth and maternal socio-demographic characteristics, babies’ characteristics and maternity care use were assessed using a weighted logistic regression model for women in the FBH+ group.ResultsA total of 15,591 women reporting a birth since 1 January 2012 answered maternity care questions. Completeness was very high (> 99%), with similar proportions of responses for both live and stillbirths. Amongst the 14,991 births in the FBH+ group, poorer wealth status, higher parity, large perceived baby size-at-birth, preterm or post-term birth, birth in a government hospital compared to other locations and vaginal birth were associated with increased risk of stillbirth after adjusting for potential confounding factors. Regarding association with reported postnatal care, women with a stillbirth were more likely to report hospital stays of > 1 day. However, women with a stillbirth were less likely to report having received a postnatal check compared to those with a live birth.ConclusionsWomen who had experienced stillbirth were able to respond to questions about pregnancy and birth, and we found no reason to omit questions to these women in household surveys. Our analysis identified several potentially modifiable factors associated with stillbirth, adding to the evidence-base for policy and action in low- and middle-income contexts. Including these questions in DHS-8 would lead to increased availability of population-level data to inform action to end preventable stillbirths.

ObjectiveBoth the gut microbiome and host genetics are known to play significant roles in the pathogenesis of IBD. However, the interaction between these two factors and its implications in the aetiology of IBD remain underexplored. Here, we report on the influence of host genetics on the gut microbiome in IBD.DesignTo evaluate the impact of host genetics on the gut microbiota of patients with IBD, we combined whole exome sequencing of the host genome and whole genome shotgun sequencing of 1464 faecal samples from 525 patients with IBD and 939 population-based controls. We followed a four-step analysis: (1) exome-wide microbial quantitative trait loci (mbQTL) analyses, (2) a targeted approach focusing on IBD-associated genomic regions and protein truncating variants (PTVs, minor allele frequency (MAF) >5%), (3) gene-based burden tests on PTVs with MAF ResultsWe identified 12 mbQTLs, including variants in the IBD-associated genes IL17REL, MYRF, SEC16A and WDR78. For example, the decrease of the pathway acetyl-coenzyme A biosynthesis, which is involved in short chain fatty acids production, was associated with variants in the gene MYRF (false discovery rate CYP2D6, GPR151 and CD160 genes. These genes are known for their function in the immune system. Moreover, interaction analyses confirmed previously known IBD disease-specific mbQTLs in TNFSF15.ConclusionThis study highlights that both common and rare genetic variants affecting the immune system are key factors in shaping the gut microbiota in the context of IBD and pinpoints towards potential mechanisms for disease treatment.

Background Ectopic pregnancy is an abnormal condition in which implantation of the blastocyst occurs outside the endometrium of the uterus. It is gynecological important, particularly in the developing world, because of associated with enormous rate of high morbidity, during the first trimester of pregnancy. A better understanding of its risk factors can help to prevent its prevalence. However, the determinants of ectopic pregnancy are not well understood and few researches conducted in our country were based on secondary data covering small scale area. This study aimed to identify determinants of ectopic pregnancy among pregnant women attending referral hospitals in Southwestern part of Oromia regional state, Southwest Ethiopia. Methods Hospital-based case control study was employed from June 1 to September 30, 2019. The study was conducted in five referral hospitals in Southwestern part of Oromia regional state. Final sample size includes 59 cases and 118 controls. Data were entered by using Epidata version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 23. Descriptive statistics were used to explore the data. All explanatory variables with p-value of p Results Out of 177 (59 cases and 118 controls) participants, 174 (58 cases and 116 controls) were participating in the study. Prior two or more induced abortions [AOR = 3.95:95% CI: 1.22–13.05], previous history of caesarean section [AOR = 3.4:95% CI: 1.11–10.94], marital status (being single) [AOR = 4.04:95%CI: 1.23–13.21], reporting prior recurrent sexual transmitted infection [AOR = 2.25:95%CI: 1.00–5.51], prior history of tubal surgery [AOR = 3.32:95%CI: 1.09–10.13], were more likely to have an ectopic pregnancy with their respective AOR with 95%CI. Conclusion It was found that having a history of more than two induced abortions during previous pregnancies, marital status (single), recurrent sexual transmitted infection, prior history of tubal surgery and experiencing prior caesarean section were found to be determinants of ectopic pregnancy. Hospitals should give emphasis on prevention and early detection of risks of ectopic pregnancy and create awareness in order to reduce the burden of ectopic pregnancy.

Background: More than one third of the neonatal deaths at Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Debre Tabor General Hos- pital (DTGH) are attributable to birth asphyxia. Most of these neonates are referred from maternity ward of the hospital. However, there is no recent evidence on the prevalence and specific determinants of birth asphyxia at DTGH. Besides, public health importance of factors like birth spacing weren’t addressed in the prior studies. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted on a sample of 240 newborns at delivery ward. The collected data were cleaned, coded and entered into Epi -data version 4.2 and exported to Stata version 14. Binary logistic regression model was considered and statistical significance was declared at P< 0.05 using adjusted odds ratio. Results: The prevalence of asphyxia neonatorum was 6.7 % based on the fifth minute APGAR score. From multi-variable logistic regression analysis, antenatal obstetric complications (AOR = 2.63, 95% CI: 3.75, 14.29), fetal malpresentation (AOR = 3.17, 95% CI: 1.21, 15.20), premature rupture of fetal membranes (AOR = 6.56, 95% CI: 3.48, 18.12) and meconium stained amniotic fluid (AOR = 2.73, 95% CI: 1.76, 14.59) were significant predictors. Conclusion: The prevalence of fifth minute asphyxia neonatorum was relatively low. Fortunately, its predictors are modifi- able. Thus, we can mitigate the problem even with our limited resources such as enhancing the existing efforts of antenatal and intra-partum care, which could help early detection and management of any obstetric and neonatal health abnormality.” Keywords: Birth asphyxia; asphyxia neonatorum; prevalence; determinants; Ethiopia.

Knowledge, attitudes and beliefs (KABs) toward influenza vaccination (IV) play a key role in HCWs' decisions to receive vaccination and can strongly influence patients' IV uptake. We examined the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of GPs toward IV, exploring their opinion on IV in the elderly, mandatory HCW vaccination and the desirability of an IV trial in the elderly with hospitalization/mortality as effect measure. From November 2018 to March 2019, surveys were emailed to GPs and GP-practices (n = 1676) in three regions of the Netherlands. We assessed the self-reported IV in GPs, reasons for (not) advising IV to personnel, (not) supporting mandatory IV for personnel and (not) desiring a trial on IV in the elderly on hospitalization/mortality. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine predictors for GP IV. A total of 552 surveys were completed and 71.9% of the GPs reported receiving IV. Determinants for IV in GPs were male sex (aOR 1.62, 95%CI 1.06-2.49, p = .03) and age >= 60 y (aOR 5.25, 95%CI 1.51-18.32, p = .01). Seventy-nine percent of the GPs recommend IV for their practice personnel. Mandatory IV for personnel was supported by 41.2% of the GPs with GP self-reporting IV being the only determinant (aOR 10.03 (95%CI 5.69-17.70 p = .00)). An IV trial on hospitalization and/or mortality was desired by 60.5% of the GPs. We concluded that the majority of Dutch GPs receives IV and recommends IV to their personnel. These high rates along with the hesitancy of GPs toward mandatory HCW IV should be considered when policymakers decide on a mandate for IV in HCW in general.

Contains fulltext : 229562.pdf (Publisher’s version ) (Open Access) AIMS: To estimate the strengths of associations between use of behaviour change techniques (BCTs) and clusters of BCTs in behavioural smoking cessation interventions and comparators with smoking cessation rates. METHOD: Systematic review and meta-regression of biochemically verified smoking cessation rates on BCTs in interventions and comparators in randomized controlled trials, adjusting for a priori-defined potential confounding variables, together with moderation analyses. Studies were drawn from the Cochrane Tobacco Addiction Group Specialised Register. Data were extracted from published and unpublished (i.e. obtained from study authors) study materials by two independent coders. Adequately described intervention (k = 143) and comparator (k = 92) groups were included in the analyses (n = 43 992 participants). Using bivariate mixed-effects meta-regressions, while controlling for key a priori confounders, we regressed smoking cessation on (a) three BCT groupings consistent with dual-process theory (i.e. associative, reflective motivational and self-regulatory), (b) 17 expert-derived BCT groupings (i.e. BCT taxonomy version 1 clusters) and (c) individual BCTs from the BCT taxonomy version 1. RESULTS: Among person-delivered interventions, higher smoking cessation rates were predicted by BCTs targeting associative and self-regulatory processes (B = 0.034, 0.041, P

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is sexual, psychological and physical coercive acts used against persons by intimate partners. When IPV occurs during pregnancy (IPVp), it can result in adverse maternal and pregnancy outcomes. No policy nor practice direction exists to address the rates and risk factors of IPVp in Kenya. Determining the prevalence, types and determinants of IPVp in Western Kenya would aid in the identification of pregnant women affected by and/or at risk of IPVp, as well as informing the development of policy, practices and programmes to support preventive interventions. In this cross-sectional study of 369 women who had given birth at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, participants were recruited using systematic sampling and data collected via structured questionnaires adopted from the WHO Violence Against Women Instrument. Associations were made in relation to physical or sexual violence and psychological violence. Logistic regression was used to assess the association between determinants and occurrence of IPVp. The overall prevalence of IPVp was 34.1%. Prevalence of physical or sexual violence was 22.8%. Psychological violence emerged as the most common (27.4%) form of IPVp. A lower than tertiary level of education and previous experience of IPV were individually associated with physical/sexual IPVp, whereas psychological IPVp was associated with previous experience of IPV and was prevented by the intimate partner having formal employment. Preterm birth rates were found to be higher than the country’s rates. The prevalence rates of IPVp are high in Western Kenya. Strategies that address the promotion of respectful, nonviolent relationships and that interrupt the development of risk factors are required. Policies (clinical guidelines) targeting prevention of IPVp and screening and the identification of at-risk women and survivors of IPVp are needed urgently. Primary prevention through interrupting the occurrence of predisposing factors is key in addressing IPVp.

Exposure to intimate partner violence (IPV) can have profound adverse consequences on maternal and child health. This study aimed to: (1) identify factors associated with IPV during pregnancy and postpartum in Bangladesh; and (2) assess the associations between IPV and maternal mental health and breastfeeding practices. We used data from a cross-sectional survey of 2000 mothers with children

Objective: To provide insight into the motivational working mechanisms (i.e. mediators) of an effective physical activity (PA) intervention for adults aged over fifty. Design: The mediation model (N = 822) was investigated in an RCT for the total intervention population, participants who were not norm-active at baseline (targeting PA initiation) and norm-active participants (targeting PA maintenance) separately. Main Outcome Measures: Potential mediators (attitude, self-efficacy, intention, action planning and coping planning) of the effect on PA (6-months) were assessed at baseline, 3 and/or 6 months. Results: The intervention resulted in a decrease in intention (B= −.209; p=.017), and an increase in action planning (B=.214; p=.018) and PA (B=.220; p=.002). Intention and action planning did not mediate the effect on PA. Self-efficacy, although not significantly influenced by the intervention, was found to be the only motivational variable that predicted change in PA (B=.164; p=.007). These results were confirmed among participants initiating PA. Among norm-active participants no significant intervention effects were identified. Conclusion: The motivational factors cannot explain the intervention effect on PA. Most likely, the effect can be explained by an interaction between the motivational factors together. Differences between participants initiating versus maintaining PA, highlight the importance of performing mediation analyses per subgroup.

Background Based on Basic Health Research (RISKESDAS) conducted by Ministry of Health, Indonesia, prediabetes prevalence tends to increase from 2007 until 2018. The numbers are relatively higher in rural than those in urban area despite of small discrepancies between the two (~ 2–4%). The purpose of this study was to identify urban-rural differences in potential determinants for prediabetes in Indonesia. Methods This analysis used secondary data collected from nationwide Health Survey in 2018. Respondents were aged ≥15 years who met inclusion criteria of analysis with no history of diabetes mellitus. Prediabetes criteria followed American Diabetes Association 2019. Multiple logistic regression was also employed to assess the transition probability of potential determinants for prediabetes in urban and rural Indonesia. Results Up to 44.8% of rural respondents were prediabetics versus their urban counterparts at 34.9%, yet non-response bias was observed in the two. Young adults aged 30 years were already at risk of prediabetes. Urban-rural distinction for marital status and triglyceride level was observed while other determinants tended to overlap across residence. Several modifiable factors might contribute differently in both population with careful interpretation. Conclusions The minimum age limit for early prediabetes screening may start from 30 years old in Indonesia. Urban-rural distinction for marital status and triglyceride level was observed, yet non-response bias between the two groups could not be excluded. A proper model for early prediabetes screening need to be developed from a cohort study with adequate sample size.

Introduction Meningioma is a heterogeneous disease and patients may suffer from long-term tumor- and treatment-related sequelae. To help identify patients at risk for these late effects, we first assessed variables associated with impaired long-term health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and impaired neurocognitive function on group level (i.e. determinants). Next, prediction models were developed to predict the risk for long-term neurocognitive or HRQoL impairment on individual patient-level. Methods Secondary data analysis of a cross-sectional multicenter study with intracranial WHO grade I/II meningioma patients, in which HRQoL (Short-Form 36) and neurocognitive functioning (standardized test battery) were assessed. Multivariable regression models were used to assess determinants for these outcomes corrected for confounders, and to build prediction models, evaluated with C-statistics. Results Data from 190 patients were analyzed (median 9 years after intervention). Main determinants for poor HRQoL or impaired neurocognitive function were patients’ sociodemographic characteristics, surgical complications, reoperation, radiotherapy, presence of edema, and a larger tumor diameter on last MRI. Prediction models with a moderate/good ability to discriminate between individual patients with and without impaired HRQoL (C-statistic 0.73, 95% CI 0.65 to 0.81) and neurocognitive function (C-statistic 0.78, 95%CI 0.70 to 0.85) were built. Not all predictors (e.g. tumor location) within these models were also determinants. Conclusions The identified determinants help clinicians to better understand long-term meningioma disease burden. Prediction models can help early identification of individual patients at risk for long-term neurocognitive or HRQoL impairment, facilitating tailored provision of information and allocation of scarce supportive care services to those most likely to benefit.

Background A vigilant prescription of drugs during pregnancy can potentially safeguard the growing fetus from the deleterious effect of the drug while attempting to manage the mother’s health problems. There is a paucity of information about the drug utilization pattern in the area of investigation. Hence, this study was implemented to investigate the pattern of drug utilization and its associated factors among pregnant women in Adigrat general hospital, Northern Ethiopia. Methods An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among randomly selected 314 pregnant women who attended obstetrics-gynecology and antenatal care units of the hospital. Relevant data were retrieved from the pregnant women’s medical records and registration logbook. The drugs prescribed were categorized based on the United States Food and Drug Administration (US-FDA) fetal harm classification system. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 20 statistical software. Multivariate logistic regression was employed to analyze the association of the explanatory variables with the medication use, and p Results The overall prescribed drug use in this study was found to be 87.7%. A considerable percentage of the study participants (41.4%) were prescribed with supplemental drugs (iron folate being the most prescribed drug) followed by antibiotics (23.4%) and analgesics (9.2%). According to the US-FDA drug’s risk classification, 42.5, 37, 13, and 7% of the drugs prescribed were from categories A, B, C, and D or X respectively. Prescribed drug use was more likely among pregnant women who completed primary [AOR = 5.34, 95% CI (1.53–18.6)] and secondary education [AOR = 4.1, 95% CI (1.16–14)], who had a history of chronic illness [AOR = 7.9, 95% CI (3.14–19.94)] and among multigravida women [AOR = 2.9, 95% CI (1.57 5.45)]. Conclusions The finding of this study revealed that a substantial proportion of pregnant women received drugs with potential harm to the mother and fetus. Reasonably, notifying health practitioners to rely on up-to-date treatment guidelines strictly is highly demanded. Moreover, counseling and educating pregnant women on the safe and appropriate use of medications during pregnancy are crucial to mitigate the burden that the mother and the growing fetus could face.

Background The key cause of HIV transmission is failure to provide adequate information about HIV/AIDS which is a substantial public health issue in low and middle-income countries. While global health coverage continues, there is still little understanding of HIV/AIDS among women of reproductive age (15–49 years) in Ethiopia. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify the determinants of comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS among women of reproductive age in Ethiopia. Methods A secondary data analysis was employed using the 2016 Ethiopian demographic and health survey data. Data were extracted about comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS among women of reproductive age. We used multi-variable mixed-effect binary logistic regression to identify factors associated with comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS among women of reproductive age. The adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was used to declare statistical significance. Results We found that having primary (AOR = 1.75, 95% CI 1.56–1.97),secondary (AOR = 2.74, 95% CI 2.33–3.22), and higher (AOR = 4.07, 95% CI 3.32–4.99) educational statuses, being in highest wealth quintiles; richer (AOR = 1.20, 95% CI 1.01–1.43) and richest (AOR = 1.51, 95% CI 1.22–1.87), knowing the place for HIV test (AOR = 2.13, 95% CI 1.88–2.42), use of traditional contraceptive method (AOR = 1.93,95% CI 1.12–3.35), female household head (AOR = 1.18, 95% CI 1.07–1.31), watching television (AOR = 1.22, 95% CI 1.06–1.41) and own mobile phone (AOR = 1.18, 95% CI 1.05–1.33) were positively associated with comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS among women of reproductive age in Ethiopia. Conclusion Women with higher education and higher wealth quintiles, knowing the place of HIV test, watching television, a traditional contraceptive method use, having a mobile phone and being in female headed household were positively associated with comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS among women of reproductive age in Ethiopia. Programs working on HIV/AIDS should target women based on the identified factors so as to scale up their comprehensive knowledge towards HIV/AIDS. In this context, the media should actively contribute to raising awareness of HIV/AIDS.

Background Socioeconomic and health inequalities remain a huge problem in post-apartheid South Africa. Despite substantial efforts at ensuring universal access to vaccines, many children remain under-vaccinated in the country. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and factors associated with incomplete vaccination in the first year of life, among children aged 12–23 months in South Africa. Methods The study is a secondary analysis of the 2016 South African Demographic and Health Survey. A multivariable logistic regression model was applied to the data on 708 children aged 12–23 months. The study outcome, vaccination completeness, was assessed using a composite assessment of nine doses of four vaccines; Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) (one dose), Polio (four doses), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis containing vaccines (DTP) (three doses) and measles-containing vaccines (MCV) (one dose). Children who received all the nine doses were categorized as completely vaccinated. Independent variables included child, maternal, and demographic characteristics. Variables were included in the model based on literature findings. Bivariate analyses were used to examine the crude association between each independent variable and incomplete vaccination, while the multivariable logistic regression model was used to examine the adjusted association after controlling for other variables. Measures of association were presented as odds ratios (OR) with their 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results About two-fifths (40.8%) of the children were incompletely vaccinated. The prevalence of incomplete vaccination was significantly high among children whose mothers did not receive antenatal care (ANC) during pregnancy (57.5%), and children living in Gauteng Province (52.2%). From the bivariate analyses, the odds of being incompletely vaccinated were three times higher in children whose mothers did not attend ANC compared with children whose mothers attended ANC (crude OR = 2.93; 95% CI 1.42–6.03). The odds were about three times higher in children living in Mpumalanga province (OR = 2.58; 95% CI 1.27–5.25) and in those living in Gauteng province (OR = 2.76; 95% CI 1.30–5.91), compared with those living in Free State province. Conversely, the odds were 32% lower in children from rich households, compared with those from poor households (OR = 0.68; 95% CI 0.47–0.98). In the adjusted model, the higher odds of incomplete vaccination in children whose mothers did not attend ANC were maintained in both magnitude and direction (adjusted OR [aOR] = 2.87; 95% CI 1.31–6.25). Similarly, compared with children living in Free State province, the higher odds of a child being incompletely vaccinated in Mpumalanga (aOR = 2.30; 95% CI 1.03–5.14) and in Gauteng (aOR = 3.10; 95% CI 1.35–7.15) provinces were maintained in both magnitude and direction. Conclusions There is a substantial burden of incomplete childhood vaccination in South Africa. Maternal ANC attendance during pregnancy and area of residence significantly influences this burden. Interventions that promote broader health service utilization, such as ANC attendance, can help improve the awareness and uptake of routine childhood vaccination. It is also imperative to take into consideration the provincial disparities in childhood vaccination completeness, in planning and implementing interventions to improve vaccination coverage in the country.