-
Journal of Cancer 2024: The association of socioeconomic status and individual behavior (SES/IB) with human health is receiving increasing attention. However, the causal effects between...
: The association of socioeconomic status and individual behavior (SES/IB) with human health is receiving increasing attention. However, the causal effects between SES/IB and lymphomas remain unclear. A two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study was used to assess the causal effects of 25 SES/IB traits (dietary habits, physical activity, smoking/drinking behaviors, sleeping behaviors, leisure sedentary behaviors, risky behaviors, and reproductive behaviors) on six distinct types of lymphomas, including Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), follicular lymphoma (FL), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), mature T/NK-cell lymphomas, marginal zone B-cell lymphoma (MZL), and mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was the primary approach used for the MR analysis. A series of sensitivity analyses were also conducted to ensure the robustness of the findings. : Two-sample MR revealed six SES/IB traits causally associated with lymphomas, including relative fat intake, drive time, television watching time, computer use time, vigorous physical activity, and number of children ever born. After false discovery rate (FDR) correction, the causal associations between longer television watching time and DLBCL (: 4.048, 95% CI: 1.688 to 9.708, =0.009), and the number of children ever born with both FL (: 0.008, 95% CI: 1.412E-04 to 0.484, =0.021) and DLBCL (: 0.001, 95% CI:1.587E-05 to 0.081, =0.002) were identified. : These findings suggest that certain lifestyle and behavioral factors have a measurable impact on specific lymphoma types.
PubMed: 38911370
DOI: 10.7150/jca.96413 -
Journal of Healthcare Leadership 2024Leadership is increasingly becoming a priority in the forms of higher education associated with the Fourth Industrial Revolution; however, few studies have examined it...
PURPOSE
Leadership is increasingly becoming a priority in the forms of higher education associated with the Fourth Industrial Revolution; however, few studies have examined it in the context of pharmacy education. This study investigated the levels of communication competence, critical thinking disposition, problem-solving ability, and leadership of pharmacy students, and identified factors related to leadership.
METHODS
This study was conducted using a nationwide cross-sectional online survey with a self-administered questionnaire. A total of 416 third-to-sixth-year pharmacy students from all 35 pharmacy schools in South Korea, completed the survey from September 1 to 15, 2019. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, -tests, Pearson's correlations, and multiple regression analysis. We verified construct validity by performing an exploratory factor analysis.
RESULTS
The pharmacy students revealed a moderate level of communication skills, critical thinking disposition, problem-solving ability, and leadership. Significant positive correlations were found among communication competence (r=0.724, p<0.001), critical thinking disposition (r=0.615, p<0.001), problem-solving ability (r=0.599, p<0.001), and leadership. After adjustment for control variables, communication competence (β=0.319, p<0.001) was found to be the most significant predictor of leadership (F=104.12, p<0.001, R=0.756).
CONCLUSION
This study showed that the students' leadership was influenced by their competence in communicating effectively, thinking critically, and solving problems. Pharmacy educators should acknowledge and implement innovative curriculum and assessment approaches in preparing pharmacy students for their professional paths.
PubMed: 38911350
DOI: 10.2147/JHL.S459865 -
Lancet Regional Health. Americas Jul 2024Reducing cigarette addictiveness has the potential to avert millions of yearly tobacco-related deaths worldwide. Substantially reducing nicotine in cigarettes decreases...
BACKGROUND
Reducing cigarette addictiveness has the potential to avert millions of yearly tobacco-related deaths worldwide. Substantially reducing nicotine in cigarettes decreases cigarette consumption, but no large clinical trial has determined the effects of reduced-nicotine cigarettes when other nicotine-containing products are available. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of reduced-nicotine cigarettes in the context of the availability of alternative nicotine delivery systems.
METHODS
In a U.S. six-site, open-label, parallel-arm study, smokers were randomized for twelve weeks to an experimental marketplace containing cigarettes with either 0.4 mg or 15.8 mg nicotine per gram of tobacco; all had access to non-combusted alternative nicotine delivery systems (e.g., e-cigarettes; medicinal nicotine). Group differences in the primary outcomes (cigarettes per day, number of smoke-free days) were examined using linear and negative binomial regression, respectively (Trial Registration: NCT03272685).
FINDINGS
Among 438 randomized participants (mean [standard deviation (SD), range] age, 44.5 [11.9, 20-73] years, 225 [51.4%] women, 282 [64.4%] White and 339 [77.4%] trial completers), those in the 0.4 mg vs. 15.8 mg nicotine cigarette condition experienced significantly lower cigarettes per day at the end of intervention (mean [SD], 7.05 [7.88] vs. 12.95 [9.07], adjusted mean difference, -6.21 [95% CI, -7.66 to -4.75], P < 0.0001) and greater smoke-free days during intervention (mean [SD], 18.59 [27.97] vs. 5.06 [13.77], adjusted rate ratio, 4.25 [95% CI, 2.58-6.98], P < 0.0001).
INTERPRETATION
A reduced-nicotine cigarette standard in the context of access to other non-combusted nicotine products has the potential to benefit public health.
FUNDING
U.S. NIH/FDA U54DA03165.
PubMed: 38911348
DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2024.100796 -
Current Developments in Nutrition Jun 2024In 2021, 32% of adult meat consumers in Scotland exceeded the 70 g/d recommended limit of red and red processed meat (RPM) intake. We analyzed RPM consumption behaviors...
In 2021, 32% of adult meat consumers in Scotland exceeded the 70 g/d recommended limit of red and red processed meat (RPM) intake. We analyzed RPM consumption behaviors among adults in the Scottish Health Survey (2021) to better understand this consumer group. Consumers were categorized into low, medium, and high consumers, and overall, mean intake was 66 g/d. Males and individuals living in the most deprived areas were most likely to be high consumers (45% compared with 30% for males compared with females, respectively, and 44% compared with 32% for those in the most compared with least deprived areas, respectively). Dinners accounted for the majority of intake among high (55%) and medium (52%) consumers, whereas low consumers distributed intake between lunch (40%) and dinner (48%). Across all groups, consumption was highest on Sundays, and majority of RPM was purchased at supermarkets. Beef dishes and sandwiches were primary contributors among high and medium consumers. These insights can inform the design of effective strategies and policies aligned with meat reduction targets. For instance, strategies focusing on modifying traditional meat-centric dishes and sandwiches could be impactful.
PubMed: 38911321
DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2024.103777 -
Frontiers in Genetics 2024Osteoporosis (OP) is typically diagnosed by evaluating bone mineral density (BMD), and it frequently results in fractures. Here, we investigated the causal relationships...
BACKGROUND
Osteoporosis (OP) is typically diagnosed by evaluating bone mineral density (BMD), and it frequently results in fractures. Here, we investigated the causal relationships between diet-derived circulating antioxidants and the risk of OP using Mendelian randomization (MR).
METHODS
Published studies were used to identify instrumental variables related to absolute levels of circulating antioxidants like lycopene, retinol, ascorbate, and β-carotene, as well as antioxidant metabolites such as ascorbate, retinol, α-tocopherol, and γ-tocopherol. Outcome variables included BMD (in femoral neck, lumbar spine, forearm, heel, total body, total body (age over 60), total body (age 45-60), total body (age 30-45), total body (age 15-30), and total body (age 0-15)), fractures (in arm, spine, leg, heel, and osteoporotic fractures), and OP. Inverse variance weighted or Wald ratio was chosen as the main method for MR analysis based on the number of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Furthermore, we performed sensitivity analyses to confirm the reliability of the findings.
RESULTS
We found a causal relationship between absolute retinol levels and heel BMD ( = 7.6E-05). The results of fixed effects IVW showed a protective effect of absolute retinol levels against heel BMD, with per 0.1 ln-transformed retinol being associated with a 28% increase in heel BMD (OR: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.13-1.44). In addition, a sex-specific effect of the absolute circulating retinol levels on the heel BMD has been observed in men. No other significant causal relationship was found.
CONCLUSION
There is a positive causal relationship between absolute retinol levels and heel BMD. The implications of our results should be taken into account in future studies and in the creation of public health policies and OP prevention tactics.
PubMed: 38911297
DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1346367 -
SSM. Qualitative Research in Health Jun 2024The 2015-2018 revision of the European Union's Audiovisual Media Services Directive, which governs the marketing of alcohol and unhealthy food to minors, failed to align...
BACKGROUND
The 2015-2018 revision of the European Union's Audiovisual Media Services Directive, which governs the marketing of alcohol and unhealthy food to minors, failed to align with international best practice. Previous research has explained this 'missed opportunity' with reference to deficient political will, difficulties advocating for health, and industry pressure. We explore another explanation: the role of the impact assessment (IA) process in shaping decision-making.
METHODS
We first conducted an in-depth comparison of three versions of the IA report, employing qualitative content and framing analyses to establish in the substantive content, framing, and evidence cited. Second, we used process-tracing, a qualitative method drawing on multiple data sources, to explore causal mechanisms, to assess . Data sources include policy documents published proactively and obtained through access-to-document requests.
FINDINGS
Previously unpublished versions of the IA report show that stronger rules on advertising were preferred early in the policy process but later abandoned, and that concern for 'balancing' consumer protection and competitiveness shifted to focus on the latter. Following review by the Regulatory Scrutiny Board, a revised IA report narrowed the policy options, removing a requirement for member states to prevent childrens' exposure to alcohol advertising. Consequently, decision-makers were provided with an IA that did not offer adequate information on available measures to protect children.
INTERPRETATION
Changes made during the IA process, which determines the policy options presented to decision-makers, side-lined health concerns. We argue that engaging with the institutional structures which shape decision-making is crucial for those working to further public health.
PubMed: 38911290
DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmqr.2023.100369 -
The Lancet Regional Health. Western... Jun 2024The Australian population aged 70 and above is increasing and imposing new challenges for policy makers and providers to deliver accessible, appropriate and affordable...
Pre-COVID life expectancy, mortality, and burden of diseases for adults 70 years and older in Australia: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease 2019 Study.
BACKGROUND
The Australian population aged 70 and above is increasing and imposing new challenges for policy makers and providers to deliver accessible, appropriate and affordable health care. We examine pre-COVID patterns of health loss between 1990 and 2019 to inform policies and practices.
METHODS
Using the standardised methodology framework and analytical strategies from GBD 2019 methodologies, we estimated mortality, causes of death, years of life lost (YLLs), years lived with disability (YLDs), disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), life expectancy at age 70 and above (LE-70), and healthy life expectancy (HALE-70) in Australia comparing them globally and with high socio-demographic index (SDI) groups.
FINDINGS
DALY rates have been improving steadily over the past 30 years among Australians aged 70 and above. Decreases in DALY rates were primarily attributed to a fall in YLLs attributable to cardiovascular diseases (60%) and chronic respiratory disorders (30.2%) and transport injuries (56.9%), while the non-fatal burden remained stable from 1990 to 2019. According to the DALY rates, the top five leading causes are ischemic heart disease, Alzheimer's disease, COPD, stroke, and falls, where falls exhibited the largest increase since 1990.
INTERPRETATION
This study provides an in-depth report on the main causes of mortality and disability in Australia's population aged 70 and above. It sheds light on the shifts in burden over three decades, emphasising the need for the Australian health system to enhance its readiness in addressing the escalating demands of an ageing population. These findings establish pre-COVID baseline estimates for Australia's population aged 70 and above, informing healthcare preparedness.
FUNDING
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
PubMed: 38911261
DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2024.101092 -
The Lancet Regional Health. Western... Jun 2024Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has deeply impacted tuberculosis (TB) services globally. This study aims to assess the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on TB...
Changing epidemic of tuberculosis amidst the COVID-19 pandemic in the Western Pacific Region: analysis of tuberculosis case notifications and treatment outcomes from 2015 to 2022.
BACKGROUND
Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has deeply impacted tuberculosis (TB) services globally. This study aims to assess the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on TB diagnosis and care and explore associated factors in the Western Pacific Region.
METHODS
We analysed TB case notifications and treatment outcomes for the Region and 14 selected countries and areas from 2015 to 2022. We further explored differences in reported cases from predicted cases by the UHC service coverage index and Human Development Index (HDI), and the relationship between the Stringency Index and TB case notifications during the pandemic.
FINDINGS
TB case notifications declined in 2020 (21%) and 2021 (23%) compared to predicted cases and partly recovered in 2022 (18%). The shortfalls in 2020 and 2021 were more prominent in priority countries with high TB burden, where the decrease in clinically diagnosed pulmonary cases and paediatric cases was particularly pronounced. In priority countries, TB case notifications have a positive relationship with UHC service coverage index and HDI in 2021 and an inverse relationship with Stringency Index during the pandemic. In contrast, treatment outcomes have not changed significantly due to the pandemic across countries in the Region.
INTERPRETATION
The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely impacted TB diagnosis and care in the Western Pacific Region, especially TB case detection. Stringent government policies against the pandemic, coupled with weak health systems and suboptimal socio-economic development, may have brought a more profound and prolonged impact in priority countries.
FUNDING
The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency and the Japan Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.
PubMed: 38911260
DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2024.101104 -
Environmental Health Insights 2024Investigation on human perspective on the impacts of quarry activities on the natural environment remains limited. This study gauged residents' perceptions of the...
Investigation on human perspective on the impacts of quarry activities on the natural environment remains limited. This study gauged residents' perceptions of the ecological consequences of quarry operations. A meticulously structured questionnaire was dispensed among 214 households, chosen at random, in the vicinity of Sanlong Quarry within Obaagun community, Ifelodun Local Government Area, Osun State, Nigeria. The dataset underwent analysis utilising both descriptive and inferential statistics. Results indicated a predominance of female respondents, constituting 77.6%, with 65% aged 41 years and above. Moreover, 74.2% had been residents in the study area for no less than 7 years, and 62.6% resided within 1 km of the quarry site. A substantial 74.3% (159 residents) regarded quarry operations as detrimental to their environment, with 72.2% attributing this to machine vibrations. Kaiser-Meyer-Olkins and Barttlet's tests affirmed the factorability of the dataset at a 77.5% significance level ( < .005). Factor analysis revealed 7 variables, encompassing 79.19% of residents' perceptions of the environmental impact of quarry operations. These variables included the loss of farmlands (21.35%), degraded farmland (15.06%), vibrations from heavy machines affecting buildings (10.64%), flyrock debris from rock blasting damaging roofs, and the destruction caused by trucks and heavy machinery on rural roads (8.57%). Additionally, wildlife displacement (8.33%) and respondents' perception of the quarry's duration of operation (8.00%) were identified. These findings suggest that quarry operations exert a significant influence on the livelihood of the Sanlong quarry neighbourhood. It is imperative for stakeholders to address this situation through relevant policies, particularly those that enhance the well-being of the community and hold the quarry company responsible for the damages inflicted on various environmental resources. Nonetheless, further study is recommended to validate or otherwise the current findings.
PubMed: 38911232
DOI: 10.1177/11786302241264146 -
Gerontology & Geriatric Medicine 2024Research has identified a positive relationship between physical activity and neuropsychological functioning across the lifespan. The present study further examined the...
Research has identified a positive relationship between physical activity and neuropsychological functioning across the lifespan. The present study further examined the relationship between physical activity, depression, anxiety, and cognitive functioning in community-dwelling older adults (ages 65-96) who completed an outpatient neuropsychological evaluation ( = 526). Psychometrically sound and validated measures were used to assess depression, anxiety, and cognitive functioning. Analyses of covariance (ANCOVA) were conducted to examine differences between individuals who reported regularly engaging in physical activity and those who did not, after adjusting for demographic variables (age, education, and gender). Results indicated that physical activity was associated with better scores on measures of depression, anxiety, and cognitive functioning. Effect sizes for total scores on all measures were large, but there was a sizeable range of effect sizes (from small to large) for various cognitive domains. Smallest effect sizes were observed for subtests measuring language skills and visuospatial abilities, whereas largest effect sizes were seen in processing speed and memory. Results suggest that engaging in physical activity may be a beneficial non-pharmacological intervention for older adults. These findings underscore the importance of integrating physical activity programs in community and healthcare settings to foster mental and cognitive health in older populations.
PubMed: 38911221
DOI: 10.1177/23337214241262924