Research

10 pages, 242 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Awareness and Attitude of Polish Gynecologists and General Practitioners towards Human Papillomavirus Vaccinations

by Piotr Sypień, Weronika Marek and Tadeusz M. Zielonka

Healthcare 2023, 11(8), 1076; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11081076 - 10 Apr 2023

Viewed by 1386

Human papillomavirus (HPV) leads to diseases of the skin and mucous membranes of the anogenital and upper gastrointestinal tract, especially neoplasia. HPV vaccinations effectively protect against the development of HPV-related diseases. However, despite the wide availability of vaccination for patients, only a few [...] Read more.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) leads to diseases of the skin and mucous membranes of the anogenital and upper gastrointestinal tract, especially neoplasia. HPV vaccinations effectively protect against the development of HPV-related diseases. However, despite the wide availability of vaccination for patients, only a few percent of Polish children are vaccinated. The reasons for this are certainly complex. Therefore, the aim of the study was to evaluate gynecologists’ and general practitioners’ knowledge, awareness and attitudes towards HPV vaccination and analyze their opinions about the interest in HPV vaccinations among children and parents. An anonymous, voluntary, cross-sectional survey study was conducted among 300 Polish gynecologists and general practitioners. Participants were from a diverse group with a wide range of work experience and different workplaces. Most of the respondents (83%), especially the gynecologists (p = 0.03), declared informing and discussing with parents the HPV-related diseases and prevention methods. Only 8% of the participants reported a negative reaction from parents when talking about HPV vaccines. However, in practice, physicians very rarely recommend this vaccine. HPV vaccination was recommended more often by female physicians (p = 0.03), general practitioners (p < 0.001), physicians working over five years (p < 0.001), doctors who regularly vaccinated themselves against influenza (p = 0.01) and those who vaccinated their children against HPV (p =0.001). The availability of educational materials for parents and/or patients encouraged physicians to provide this information (p < 0.001). Polish gynecologists and general practitioners declared a positive attitude regarding HPV vaccines; however, they rarely recommended this vaccine. Physicians who vaccinate themselves against influenza and their own children against HPV are more likely to provide information and encourage HPV vaccination in others. Additionally, the availability of educational material for parents and adolescents plays an essential role in the popularization of this vaccination. Knowledge alone is not enough for physicians to recommend the vaccination to patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preventative Medicine)

11 pages, 1589 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Workcation Improves Cardiac Parasympathetic Function during Sleep to Decrease Arterial Stiffness in Workers

by Hideyuki Negoro and Ryota Kobayashi

Healthcare 2022, 10(10), 2037; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare10102037 - 15 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1692

Abstract

A “Workcation” (combining work and vacation) has become increasingly common. Traditionally, the workcation focus has been on productivity; however, data showing associations between workcations and improvements in employees’ health are lacking. Therefore, this study examines the effects of a workcation on blood pressure, [...] Read more.

A “Workcation” (combining work and vacation) has become increasingly common. Traditionally, the workcation focus has been on productivity; however, data showing associations between workcations and improvements in employees’ health are lacking. Therefore, this study examines the effects of a workcation on blood pressure, arterial stiffness, heart rate, autonomic nervous system function, and physical activity. Twenty healthy employees participating in a five-day workcation project at a large private company agreed to participate in this study. Data on arterial stiffness, heart rate, autonomic nerve activity, and physical activity were collected before, during, and after the workcation. Arterial stiffness, blood pressure, and heart rate significantly decreased (p < 0.05); meanwhile, physical activity levels and parasympathetic function during sleep significantly increased during the workcation (p < 0.05). Thus, a workcation implies a new way of working that improves employees’ cardiovascular indices and parasympathetic function during sleep. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preventative Medicine)

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9 pages, 247 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Prevalence and Associated Factors of Neck Pain among Ministry of Health Office Workers in Saudi Arabia: A Cross Sectional Study

by Anas Mohammed Alhakami, Adel Madkhli, Mohammed Ghareeb, Abdulaziz Faqih, Ismail Abu-Shamla, Tariq Batt, Fatemah Refaei, Ahmad Sahely, Bassam Qassim, Ayman M. Shami and Abdulaziz H. Alhazmi

Healthcare 2022, 10(7), 1320; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare10071320 - 16 Jul 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2407

Abstract

(1) Background: Neck pain is the most common type of musculoskeletal problem affecting office workers. Various occupational risk factors have been linked to neck pain. This study aims to assess the prevalence and risk factors of neck pain among office workers at the [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Neck pain is the most common type of musculoskeletal problem affecting office workers. Various occupational risk factors have been linked to neck pain. This study aims to assess the prevalence and risk factors of neck pain among office workers at the Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, and the participants completed an online questionnaire based on the Standardized Nordic questionnaire and Quality of Life Scale Brief Version to evaluate their neck pain and the physical, psychological, social, and environmental factors that might affect their conditions. A descriptive analysis was conducted for the data and a logistic regression was performed to ascertain the effects of biodemographic and occupational factors on the likelihood of having neck pain. (3) Results: A total of 413 subjects (176 females and 237 males) participated in our study with an average age of 33.6 ± 8 years. The prevalence of neck pain in our participants was 64% during a twelve-month period. Females were less likely to suffer neck pain than males (OR = 0.52, 95%CI [0.30,0.87]), and age, BMI, level of education, and profession were not associated with likelihood of having neck pain. However, reduced working hours were associated with a reduction in the likelihood of having neck pain (OR = 0.42, 95%CI [0.33,0.53]). (4) Conclusion: Neck pain affects a large proportion of the office workers at the Ministry of Health, and this pain is significantly associated with long working hours and males. Thus, there is a need for future research that can investigate how associated factors can be managed to reduce the long-term impact of neck pain on workers’ lives. Quality improvement approaches might be used to implement effective interventions for the prevention and management of work-related risk factors that can cause neck pain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preventative Medicine)

13 pages, 280 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship between Alcohol Drinking Indicators and Self-Rated Mental Health (SRMH): Standardized European Alcohol Survey (SEAS)

by Danica Romac, Ljiljana Muslić, Diana Jovičić Burić, Mirjana Orban, Varja Đogaš and Sanja Musić Milanović

Healthcare 2022, 10(7), 1260; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare10071260 - 06 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1342

Abstract

Given that the self-perception of mental health is an important predictor of health outcomes and wellbeing, it is important to identify the indicators of mental health associated with alcohol consumption in order to reduce alcohol-related harms. This study used data from the cross-sectional [...] Read more.

Given that the self-perception of mental health is an important predictor of health outcomes and wellbeing, it is important to identify the indicators of mental health associated with alcohol consumption in order to reduce alcohol-related harms. This study used data from the cross-sectional RARHA SEAS survey (2015) in the Croatian general population, aged 18–64 years (n = 1500). Several aspects of drinking behaviors and alcohol-related harms were measured, as well as personal and sociodemographic factors. Logistic regression found a significant association between alcohol’s harm to others (AHTO) and poor self-rated mental health (SRMH) (OR = 0.752; 95% CI 0.601–0.941) in the total sample, as well as in the group of participants who rarely drank alcohol (OR = 0.504; 95% CI 0.322–0.787) in the last 12 months. More frequent consumers reported poor SRMH if they had at least one harmful effect from drinking (OR 0.538; 95% CI 0.295–0.980). Younger age, higher education, professional activity, and living with someone else in a household contributed to better SRMH. AHTO has been identified as a strong predictor of poor SRMH in the general population. Targeted public health and preventive measures are needed with specific approaches for different types of alcohol consumers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preventative Medicine)

10 pages, 220 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strategic Choice and Implementation of Workplace Wellness Programs in the United States

by Marc Weinstein

Healthcare 2022, 10(7), 1216; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare10071216 - 29 Jun 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1687

Abstract

Despite widespread discussion and public policy support for workplace wellness programs in the United States, their diffusion has been slow. Using data from the 2017 Workplace Health Administration Survey, this paper explored the importance of establishment characteristics, unionization, and strategic choice in the [...] Read more.

Despite widespread discussion and public policy support for workplace wellness programs in the United States, their diffusion has been slow. Using data from the 2017 Workplace Health Administration Survey, this paper explored the importance of establishment characteristics, unionization, and strategic choice in the adoption of workplace health initiatives and employee participation in these programs. An ordinary least squares analysis revealed that unionization (β = 1.59, 95% CI = 1.20–1.97, p < 0.001) and management support (β = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.25–2.10, p < 0.001) were the strongest predictors of the number of programs adopted by an establishment. In logistic regression analyses of nine workplace wellness programs, it was also found that unionization and management were the strongest predictors of the adoption of these programs. Management support was also correlated with employee participation of in nutrition (OR = 2.66, 95% CI = 1.23–5.71, p < 0.05) and obesity programs (OR = 3.66, 95% CI = 1.03–12.97, p < 0.05). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preventative Medicine)

13 pages, 288 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Socioeconomic Status and Interest in Genetic Testing in a US-Based Sample

by EJ Dusic, Deborah J. Bowen, Robin Bennett, Kevin C. Cain, Tesla Theoryn, Mariebeth Velasquez, Elizabeth Swisher, Jeannine M. Brant, Brian Shirts and Catharine Wang

Healthcare 2022, 10(5), 880; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare10050880 - 10 May 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1730

Abstract

Cancer is a significant burden, particularly to individuals of low socioeconomic status (SES). Genetic testing can provide information about an individual’s risk of developing cancer and guide future screening and preventative services. However, there are significant financial barriers, particularly for individuals of low [...] Read more.

Cancer is a significant burden, particularly to individuals of low socioeconomic status (SES). Genetic testing can provide information about an individual’s risk of developing cancer and guide future screening and preventative services. However, there are significant financial barriers, particularly for individuals of low SES. This study used the Early Detection of Genetic Risk (EDGE) Study’s patient baseline survey (n = 2329) to evaluate the relationship between socioeconomic status and interest in pursuing hereditary cancer genetic testing. Analysis was completed for two interest outcomes—overall interest in genetic testing and interest in genetic testing if the test were free or low cost. Many demographic and SES variables were predictors for interest in genetic testing, including education, income, and MacArthur Subjective Social Scale (SSS). After controlling for the healthcare system, age, and gender, having a higher education level and a higher household income were associated with greater general interest. Lower SSS was associated with greater interest in genetic testing if the test was free or low cost. If genetic testing is the future of preventative medicine, more work needs to be performed to make this option accessible to low-SES groups and to ensure that those services are used by the most underserved populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preventative Medicine)

12 pages, 860 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of a Community Gerontology Program on the Control of Metabolic Syndrome in Mexican Older Adults

by Víctor Manuel Mendoza-Núñez, Gabriela Pulido-Castillo, Elsa Correa-Muñoz and Juana Rosado-Pérez

Healthcare 2022, 10(3), 466; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare10030466 - 02 Mar 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1880

Abstract

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MS) is highly prevalent in older adults; it constitutes a risk factor for cognitive deterioration, frailty, and Alzheimer’s disease. For this reason, the WHO has pointed out the importance of the implementation of community programs for the training of healthy [...] Read more.

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MS) is highly prevalent in older adults; it constitutes a risk factor for cognitive deterioration, frailty, and Alzheimer’s disease. For this reason, the WHO has pointed out the importance of the implementation of community programs for the training of healthy aging. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a community gerontology program framed in active aging on the control of metabolic syndrome in older adults. Methods: An experimental study was carried out in a convenience sample of 80 older adults diagnosed with MS according to the ATPIII criteria, comprising (1) experimental group (EG), n = 40; (2) control group (CG), n = 40. During a 6-month period, the EG participated in a supervised community gerontology program, and the CG was assessed monthly. Results: A statistically significant decrease was observed in the number of components for the diagnosis of MS. In this regard, of the total of participants with a diagnosis of MS in EG, only 28% maintained the diagnosis of MS (ATPIII ≥ 3 criteria), in contrast to 83% of the CG participants (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that health self-care training within the framework of active aging is effective for the control of MS in older adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preventative Medicine)

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11 pages, 4365 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessments of Muscle Thickness and Tonicity of the Masseter and Sternocleidomastoid Muscles and Maximum Mouth Opening in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorder

by Keunhyo Lee and Seungchul Chon

Healthcare 2021, 9(12), 1640; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9121640 - 26 Nov 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2390

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the muscle thickness and tone of the masseter and sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscles and maximum mouth opening (MMO) in subjects with and without temporomandibular disorders (TMD), and perform a correlation comparison on the results of the [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to compare the muscle thickness and tone of the masseter and sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscles and maximum mouth opening (MMO) in subjects with and without temporomandibular disorders (TMD), and perform a correlation comparison on the results of the TMD group. Sixty patients were allocated to the TMD group (n = 30) or the non-TMD group (n = 30). Ultrasound imaging, myotonometer, and vernier calipers were used to determine the related changes in muscle thickness and muscle tone in masseter and SCM, and MMO, respectively. The TMD group revealed a significant decrease than the non-TMD group in the muscle thickness of masseter and SCM, respectively (p < 0.001), with a significant increase in frequency (p < 0.001) and stiffness (p < 0.001) in the masseter muscle tone, with a significant increase in frequency (p < 0.001) and stiffness (p = 0.005) in the SCM muscle tone, a significant decrease in the MMO (p < 0.001). There was a moderate negative correlation between the relaxed state of masseter muscle thickness and stiffness of SCM muscle tone (r = −0.40, p = 0.002), and a moderate negative correlation between the relaxed state of SCM muscle thickness and frequency of SCM muscle tone (r = −0.42, p = 0.001). There was a moderate negative correlation between the clenching state of SCM muscle thickness and the frequency of SCM muscle tone (r = −0.47, p < 0.001). In addition, a moderate negative correlation between MMO and frequency of SCM muscle tone (r = −0.44, p < 0.001). The muscle thickness was decreased, and the muscle tone was increased in the masseter and SCM muscle, respectively. Additionally, MMO was decreased in patients with TMD compared with non-TMD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preventative Medicine)

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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

13 pages, 336 KiB

Open AccessReview

Phacoemulsification: Proposals for Improvement in Its Application

by Marta Benítez Martínez, David Baeza Moyano and Roberto Alonso González-Lezcano

Healthcare 2021, 9(11), 1603; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9111603 - 22 Nov 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3138

Abstract

A cataract is defined as opacity of the crystalline lens. It is currently one of the most prevalent ocular pathologies and is generally associated with aging. The most common treatment for cataracts is surgery. Cataract surgery is a quick and painless process, is [...] Read more.

A cataract is defined as opacity of the crystalline lens. It is currently one of the most prevalent ocular pathologies and is generally associated with aging. The most common treatment for cataracts is surgery. Cataract surgery is a quick and painless process, is very effective, and has few risks. The operation consists of removing the opacified lens and replacing it with an intraocular lens. The most common intraocular lens removal procedure that is currently used is phacoemulsification. The energy applied in this process is generated by ultrasonic waves, which are mechanical waves with a frequency higher than 20 kHz. A great deal of research on the different ways to perform the stages of this surgical procedure and the analysis of the possible side effects of the operation has been published, but there is little information on the technical characteristics, the intensities applied, and the use of ultrasound-emitting (U/S) equipment for cataract removal. More studies on the method and depth of absorption of ultrasonic waves in our visual system when performing the phacoemulsification procedure are needed. It would be advisable for health authorities and medical professionals to develop guidelines for the handling and use of ultrasonic wave-emitting equipment, such as those that exist for ultrasound and physiotherapy. This could help us to reduce undesirable effects after the operation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preventative Medicine)

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

29 pages, 714 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Factors of Muscle Quality and Determinants of Muscle Strength: A Systematic Literature Review

by Luciano Bruno Kuschel, Dominik Sonnenburg and Tilman Engel

Healthcare 2022, 10(10), 1937; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare10101937 - 03 Oct 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3616

Abstract

Muscle quality defined as the ratio of muscle strength to muscle mass disregards underlying factors which influence muscle strength. The aim of this review was to investigate the relationship of phase angle (PhA), echo intensity (EI), muscular adipose tissue (MAT), muscle fiber type, [...] Read more.

Muscle quality defined as the ratio of muscle strength to muscle mass disregards underlying factors which influence muscle strength. The aim of this review was to investigate the relationship of phase angle (PhA), echo intensity (EI), muscular adipose tissue (MAT), muscle fiber type, fascicle pennation angle (θf), fascicle length (lf), muscle oxidative capacity, insulin sensitivity (IS), neuromuscular activation, and motor unit to muscle strength. PubMed search was performed in 2021. The inclusion criteria were: (i) original research, (ii) human participants, (iii) adults (≥18 years). Exclusion criteria were: (i) no full-text, (ii) non-English or -German language, (iii) pathologies. Forty-one studies were identified. Nine studies found a weak–moderate negative (range r: [−0.26]–[−0.656], p < 0.05) correlation between muscle strength and EI. Four studies found a weak–moderate positive correlation (range r: 0.177–0.696, p < 0.05) between muscle strength and PhA. Two studies found a moderate-strong negative correlation (range r: [−0.446]–[−0.87], p < 0.05) between muscle strength and MAT. Two studies found a weak-strong positive correlation (range r: 0.28–0.907, p < 0.05) between θf and muscle strength. Muscle oxidative capacity was found to be a predictor of muscle strength. This review highlights that the current definition of muscle quality should be expanded upon as to encompass all possible factors of muscle quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preventative Medicine)

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