Interdisciplinary Journal of Epidemiology and Public Health
The Interdisciplinary Journal of Epidemiology and Public Health (iJEPH) is an open access, peer-reviewed, online journal committed to advance knowledge in the fields of epidemiology, public health and preventive medicine, by publishing original contributions coming from any related discipline with direct impact to the health of the international community. The iJEPH aims to publish innovative articles on all aspect of epidemiology and public health including preventive medicine, social determinants of health, and the impact of population interventions, practices and polices on health worldwide. The iJEPH also aims to significantly contribute to improve health globally by becoming an essential novel teaching resource for the academic community and a source of new and rigours scientific evidence for health care providers and policy makers.
Validation, internal consistency and reliability of an instrument to assess conditions, habits and lifestyles of administrative workers from a regional institution in Colombia
Objective: To determine the content validity, internal consistency, and reliability of an instrument designed to evaluate conditions, habits, and lifestyles of administrative workers at the CCH. Methods: A psychometric study was conducted with five expert judges. Fleiss' Kappa coefficient was used to assess inter-rater agreement. The questionnaire was then administered to 100 administrative workers to evaluate internal consistency (Cronbach's Alpha) and test-retest reliability (Spearman's correlation). Results: High content validity was found: sufficiency (k= 0.74), clarity (k= 0.80), coherence (k= 0.85), and relevance (k= 0.93), all with p= 0.000. Internal consistency was adequate (α= 0.802) and test-retest reliability was high (r=0.92). Conclusion: The instrument is valid, reliable, and consistent for assessing lifestyle-related factors in administrative workers and can be used as a diagnostic tool in similar contexts.
Copyright (c) 2025 Interdisciplinary Journal of Epidemiology and Public Health https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Modifiable unhealthy habits and their association with work absenteeism in administrative workers
Introduction: Work absenteeism represents a significant occupational health problem with high economic and organizational impact. Modifiable lifestyle habits are determining factors in worker health and productivity. Objective: To determine whether unhealthy and modifiable habits contribute to work absenteeism among administrative workers of the Huila Chamber of Commerce. Methods: A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study. A sample of 100 workers was selected through simple random sampling. The FANTASTICO instrument was applied to assess lifestyle habits, along with anthropometric and sociodemographic measurements. SPSS v24 was used for descriptive analysis, contingency tables, and Cramer's V coefficient (p<0.05). Results: 82% of the workers were adults, 59% were women, and 90% held administrative positions. 83% had a family history of NCDs; 50% had a BMI in the overweight/obesity range; >80% did not meet the minimum physical activity recommended by the WHO; >62% did not maintain a balanced diet. During 2022, 380 absences (286 days) were recorded, with a cost exceeding 23 million Colombian pesos (U$: 4,782). 77% of absences were due to medical appointments. Conclusion: Unhealthy and modifiable habits, along with unfavorable anthropometric conditions, are significantly associated with work absenteeism in the studied population
First National Forum for the Prevention of Animal Abuse: a comprehensive approach to the prevention of social violence (FONAPREMA)
This document presents the proceedings of the 1st State Forum for the Prevention of Animal Cruelty (FONAPREMA), held in San Luis Potosí in October 2025. The event brought together experts from technical, social, and legal fields to address animal cruelty as a cross-cutting phenomenon and a predictive indicator of social violence. In the social sphere, the correlation between animal cruelty and interpersonal violence is highlighted; for instance, 71% of domestic violence victims report prior aggression against their pets. Under the "One Health" and "One Welfare" frameworks, it is argued that investing in animal health prevents negative externalities in public health and community safety. Additionally, the therapeutic benefits of human-animal interaction are analyzed, particularly among youth. In the legal arena, the importance of public reporting and the proper integration of investigation files is underscored. Experts emphasize that animals are recognized as sentient beings and that cruelty must be prosecuted to curb the escalation of criminal violence. Restorative justice is proposed as a mechanism to repair harm through awareness and rehabilitation, moving beyond punitive punishment. Regarding the technical area, the veterinarian is positioned as a first responder capable of detecting signs of abuse during consultation. Scientific protocols, such as the "Five Domains" model, are detailed for conducting objective clinical assessments that serve as expert forensic evidence. This forum represented a first attempt in the State to achieve safe communities.
Institutional communication during the COVID-19 vaccination campaign in Spain: An analysis of (non-)compliance with Law 29/2005 and risk communication principles
This article critically examines the institutional communication of the Spanish Government during the COVID‑19 vaccination campaign, assessing its alignment with Law 29/2005 on Institutional Advertising and Communication and with core principles of risk communication in public health. Through a documentary analysis of official campaigns (#YoMeVacunoSeguro), press releases, public statements and corporate web content, it explores how messages about vaccine “safety” and “efficacy” were framed and how coherent they were with scientific evidence on the presentation of risks and benefits. The findings show a systematic use of categorical formulas (“safe and effective vaccines”) without numerical contextualization of risks, as well as a predominant reliance on relative risk reduction while omitting metrics such as absolute risk reduction and number needed to treat. This framing, known to inflate perceived clinical benefit, departs from international recommendations that call for explicit acknowledgment of uncertainties and adverse events in order to sustain trust. At the legal level, the paper identifies a regulatory asymmetry: while campaigns formally classified as institutional advertising are subject to specific controls, identical messages disseminated through press conferences or political statements remain outside that regime, creating a protection gap in a high‑impact health context. The article concludes that institutional communication prioritized short‑term persuasive effectiveness over probabilistic transparency and calls for rethinking the legal status of institutional communication in emergencies, extending to official fact‑based messages robust standards of truthfulness, statistical contextualization and accountability.
legal status of institutional communication
Determinants of transmission related to the increase in the reported incidence of HIV infection
Background: Latin America is one of the regions of the world where the incidence of HIV infection increased between 2012 and 2022 to 9%. In Colombia, particularly in Cali, among other areas. Objective: To determine the associated risk factors that contribute to the increase in HIV transmission in Cali, Colombia. Methods: The weekly reporting of new cases between the periods 2012–2019 and 2021–2024 was compared using a non-parametric test, and a segmented series analysis was performed. Furthermore, the association of risk factors such as age, sex of cases, epidemiological week, year of reporting, modes of transmission, and vulnerability conditions with the increase in case count was explored using multivariate analysis with the Poisson count regression technique. Results: The median number of weekly reported cases in the 2021-2024 period was higher (p <0.001). Factors associated with increased HIV incidence were: heterosexual practices: RR= 2.90, IC 95%: 2.59-3.25; non-heterosexual practices: RR= 3.38, IC 95%: 3.02-3.80; being male: RR= 1.78, IC 95%: 1.69-1.87 Conclusions: The increase in HIV incidence was verified and quantified. Being male, and engaging in unsafe heterosexual and non-heterosexual practices were the routes of transmission associated with an increase in HIV incidence in the period 2021-2024 in Cali, after controlling for confounding by other determinants.
Prevention of gastric cancer in scattered rural populations: information, education, and communication strategies to combat Helicobacter pylori
Increase knowledge about the risk factors for precancerous gastric lesions and GC, focusing on H. pylori. Promote behavioral changes related to food hygiene habits and active diagnosis seeking. Strengthen community participation in early detection and prevention activities. Reduce the incidence of precancerous gastric lesions and GC precursor conditions in various communities.
Epidemiology education: classification of courses
Public health around the world faces significant health challenges every day. Epidemiology is one of the tools of public health and preventive medicine. There is a crucial need to develop epidemiology education and training programs according to the needs of each episode - which is dynamic - to cover the complex web of diseases and provide the most accurate answers in real-world public health. In reviewing several existing epidemiology degree programs worldwide, an overlap in some basic public health and epidemiology courses was observed. Effective epidemiology training programs are based on acquiring knowledge of the core competencies of epidemiology in three parts: 1. epidemiological methods and measures, 2. branches of epidemiology, and 3. supporting courses. A precise classification of courses, whether at the undergraduate or graduate level, can improve the design of the curriculum. In addition, different teaching approaches and continuous program evaluation are highly recommended. Therefore, effective epidemiology training programs require a carefully designed curriculum that integrates epidemiological methodology and measures and their applications in different branches of public health, supported by biostatistics and health informatics skills.
Participatory Action Research: Importance in addressing chronic non-communicable diseases
<pre id="tw-target-text" class="tw-data-text tw-text-large tw-ta" dir="ltr" data-placeholder="Traducción" data-ved="2ahUKEwi-v8ec_5uMAxU6RDABHf0EIUIQ3ewLegQICBAV" aria-label="Texto traducido: Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases (CNCDs) account for 74% of all deaths worldwide, with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes being the leading causes. In Colombia, these conditions constitute the main factor in disease burden, generating significant challenges for the health system, which has traditionally adopted conventional and fragmented models of care. Before presenting the proposal, it is essential to contextualize the central problem: NCCDs require a change in the care model, moving from reactive approaches to proactive, integrated, and person-centered strategies. This policy brief proposes Participatory Action Research (PAR) as a key response to these challenges, highlighting its transformative, critical, and educational nature, and promoting the active participation of communities in the design, implementation, and evaluation of health interventions. PAR favors a proactive and planned approach, centered on the person and their context, ensuring quality care and sustainability over time.">Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases (CNCDs) account for 74% of all deaths worldwide, with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes being the leading causes. In Colombia, these conditions constitute the main factor in disease burden, generating significant challenges for the health system, which has traditionally adopted conventional and fragmented models of care. Before presenting the proposal, it is essential to contextualize the central problem: NCCDs require a change in the care model, moving from reactive approaches to proactive, integrated, and person-centered strategies. This policy brief proposes Participatory Action Research (PAR) as a key response to these challenges, highlighting its transformative, critical, and educational nature, and promoting the active participation of communities in the design, implementation, and evaluation of health interventions. PAR favors a proactive and planned approach, centered on the person and their context, ensuring quality care and sustainability over time.
The effects of prenatal deaths on national life expectancy: case study U.S.A.
Introduction: It is a positive indicator that human life expectancies calculated from birth have been increasing. The current standards for counting life-years, however, assume social desirability and exclude all prenatal deaths. These assumptions mask low life-year deaths and obscure results of medical and environmental interventions, thus falsely indicating higher life expectancies. Aim: To quantify the life expectancy with and without social desirability. Methods: This case study investigates 1930 to 2016 using CDC and World Bank data for the U.S. for the impact of social desirability on life expectancy. Results: It is evident, published U.S. life expectancies are greatly exaggerated and what would have been short-lived Americans are disproportionately labeled as socially-undesirable and ignored when counting life years, thus presenting an overly-optimistic view of U.S. health. Conclusions: A comprehensive global investigation is needed, and a refinement of life expectancy calculations should be introduced, which does not bias results by only counting life expectancy from the time of live birth.
Copyright (c) 2024 Interdisciplinary Journal of Epidemiology and Public Health https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Biobanks for Biomedical research: Key aspects of informed consent
Screening tools for work-related musculoskeletal symptoms: A rapid review ofthe literature
Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMD) is a public and occupational health problem as it increases costs, absenteeism, and productivity loss. Identifying work-related risk factors for development of WRMD through screening tools is essential to determine and preventively treat patients. The objective of this study is to synthesis and evaluate the available screening tools for WMSD in the working population. Methods: A comprehensive rapid literature review was performed through a structured search. Inclusion criteria were: 1) screening tools for musculoskeletal disorders, 2) studies presenting analytical results such as proportion descriptions, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value, and 3) articles focusing on the working population. Results: A total of 4,584 articles were identified, with a final count of 8 articles included in the review. Screening tools identified encompassed various aspects, including work-related factors, psychosocial elements, and the working environment. This inclusive approach enables the prediction of WRMD in specific musculoskeletal sites, facilitating the categorization of workers based on their risk of developing WRMD and the necessity for medical consultation regarding their symptoms. Conclusion: The recognition of the broader societal and industrial impact of WRMD enhances the importance of advancing screening methodologies to address this health problem.
Integrating Acupuncture and Yoga for Pain Management in Knee Osteoarthritis
Background: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent and debilitating condition. We explore the potential of a multimodal intervention for managing knee OA, combining naturopathic therapies, acupuncture, yoga, and resistance exercise. Case description: A 68-year-old male presented with a one-year Grade II knee OA history. The patient reported moderate pain and reduced joint mobility, impacting daily activities. Clinical Findings: Initial assessment revealed a Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score of 31 and a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain score of 5. Intervention: We provided a protocol to the patient that combined traditional naturopathic treatments, mud and mustard compresses, with evidence-based therapies, acupuncture, and resistance exercise. These modalities were chosen to address the multifaceted symptoms of knee OA, focusing on symptomatic relief and functional improvement. Results: The patient improved functional ability and decreased pain perception. WOMAC scores decreased by 26%, reflecting a notable reduction in OA severity. VAS pain scores decreased by 40%, indicating a substantial reduction in perceived pain intensity. The patient reported improved performance in daily activities, suggesting enhanced functional capacity. They also experienced weight loss and lower blood pressure, potentially contributing to overall well-being and influencing pain management and functional capabilities. Conclusions: The potential benefits of a multifaceted approach to managing knee OA were effective. The decrease in pain perception, improvements in functional ability, and even secondary outcomes like weight loss and blood pressure suggest the potential value of exploring such integrative strategies for improved patient outcomes and enhanced well-being in individuals with knee OA.
Assessment of Post-Stroke Insomnia and Quality of Life among Stroke Survivors of Dhaka City: A Cross-sectional Study
Background: Stroke is frequently a disastrous event that often leads to short or long-term neurological impairment and functional disability, affecting survivors’ quality of life (QoL). Objective: To assess the prevalence of post-stroke insomnia and the status of QoL among stroke survivors. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study using mixed methods among 85 stroke survivors at the Centre for the Rehabilitation of the Paralysed (CRP) in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Convenience sampling was employed for sample selection, and data were collected using a self-reported, semi-structured Bengali questionnaire from October 2019 to January 2020. Analysis was performed using SPSS and MS Excel. Results: Among respondents, 20% reported experiencing severe clinical insomnia, 24.7 % had clinical insomnia, and 15.3% had sub-threshold insomnia. Regarding QoL, 36.5% needed ‘Some Help’, 32.9% needed ‘A little Help,’ and 15.3% needed ‘A lot of Help’ from others. Insomnia was more prevalent among survivors aged 70 and above (OR 11.28), those who faced hemorrhagic stroke (OR 0.15), and individuals with diabetes (OR 3.08). QoL was significantly affected by age 57-69 years (OR 0.79), full-time worker (OR .22), hemorrhagic stroke (OR 0.29), and diabetes (OR 4.40). Conclusion: The result indicates that insomnia and reduced quality of life among stroke survivors were highly prevalent, especially among older adults, diabetics, and patients affected by hemorrhagic stroke. These correlations underscore the need for multidisciplinary therapies and targeted screening to effectively treat sleep disorders and enhance day-to-day functioning. Improving post-stroke care with customized rehabilitation techniques may significantly enhance the long-term outcomes and overall well-being of this vulnerable population.
center for the rehabilitation of the paralyzed
Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission and the nurse's role: the case of a pregnant woman living with HIV in Bamenda Health District, in the North West Region of Cameroon
Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) of HIV infection is a significant health problem facing most low and middle-income countries. Also known as Vertical Transmission, PMTCT refers to the interventions put in place to prevent the transmission of HIV from a mother living with HIV to her infant either during pregnancy, labor, delivery, or breastfeeding. In the absence of intervention, the rate of transmission of HIV from a mother living with HIV to her child during pregnancy, labor, delivery, or breastfeeding ranges from 15% to 45% (1). Approximately 1/3 of HIV-exposed babies will acquire HIV infection in the absence of preventive measures
Unemployment and opioid overdose death patterns in the United States from 2017 to 2019
Introduction: Unemployment has been linked to increased opioid-related harms such as opioid overdose deaths. Identifying hotspots and coldspots across the United States (US) can be crucial to understanding health resources and leveraging strategies, policies and programs to reduce the burden of opioid-related harms. Objective: To determine an association between unemployment and opioid overdose death. Methods: Using data from the US Bureau of Labour Statistics and the Center for Disease Control from 2017 to 2019, we describe how unemployment correlates with opioid overdose deaths in the US. Spatial clustering analyses were carried out to generate Moran’s global I values and create hotspot maps leveraging Moran’s local I to identify clusters and trends over time. Results: There was an autocorrelation of opioid overdose death rates with surrounding states, particularly in the Midwest, Northeast and Southeast in 2017 and 2019. In contrast, only certain states in the Northeast showed greater clustering in 2018. A Poisson regression model showed a positive association between unemployment and opioid overdose deaths for the years 2017 and 2019. Overall, 2018 did not follow similar patterns seen in 2017 and 2019 in terms of the correlation between unemployment and opioid overdose rates. Conclusions: Opioid-related deaths appear to be associated with unemployment rates in the US during 2017 and 2019, but less so in 2018
A Rapid Assessment of Covid-19 Vaccine Averted Mortality Modelling
Introduction: The ubiquitous use of COVID-19 vaccination during the pandemic makes it challenging to quantify its effect. Comparisons can be made over time (outcomes by vaccination rate); most estimates rely on modeling using vaccine efficacy taken from clinical trials. Significantly, estimates from averted mortality (AM) models impact policy decisions, and their assumptions must be transparent and replicable. Aim: To assess the accuracy of model assumptions for estimates of AM due to COVID-19 vaccines. Recognizing the need for simplifications and assumptions in model building, the research seeks areas for improvement in current methodologies. Methods: The study employs a thorough analysis of existing models that quantify the impact of mass vaccination on AM, both globally and in specific countries/regions. The research scrutinizes the assumptions made by these models and identifies areas where they might overstate the degree of AM due to vaccination. This study also makes inter-model comparisons to find outlier models. Results: Several assumptions in existing models tend to overstate the level of AM from COVID-19 vaccines significantly. This correlation raises questions about the accuracy of estimates regarding positive AM due to mass vaccination. This investigation finds a notable outlier for AM modeling, a Canadian study. Conclusion: We highlight the need for improved epidemiological modeling in assessing the impact of vaccination. Assumptions tend to overstate AM, motivating the importance of responses to infectious diseases in robust and rigorous analysis. Results contribute to refining the understanding of the consequences of vaccination during the COVID-19 pandemic and encourage a nuanced approach to decisions.
Evaluating the impact of telemedicine mobile units on health outcomes, healthcare system resilience, and disaster response in flood-affected areas: a case study of Sehat Kahan
Introduction: The study explores the deployment of telemedicine services. Sehat Kahani introduced a two-tier telehealth model combining physical camps, mobile units, and a telehealth app to enhance healthcare accessibility and delivery in crisis. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of Sehat Kahani's telemedicine model in improving healthcare outcomes and system resilience. It also aims to identify key factors contributing to the successful integration of telehealth during flood emergencies. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with key stakeholders: Sehat Kahani staff, healthcare providers, beneficiaries, funders, and top-level management. Interviews provided insights into the implementation process, challenges encountered, and strategies to address these challenges. We identified themes related to resource analysis, accessibility, security, scalability, training, evaluation, collaboration, and sustainability. Results: The findings underscore the significance of comprehensive assessments, budget analysis, and collaboration with government agencies and corporate partners in successfully implementing telehealth services. Accessibility was effectively addressed through Sehat Kahani's multi-tiered model, which combined mobile clinics with a user-friendly telehealth app. Security, privacy, and confidentiality were maintained by adhering to data protection regulations (HIPAA). Training programs for healthcare professionals focused on empathy, rapport building, and technical proficiency. Sehat Kahani's scalability measures and preparedness for increased patient volume facilitated efficient service delivery during disasters. Conclusions: Sehat Kahani's comprehensive approach, encompassing resource analysis, accessibility, security, scalability, training, evaluation, collaboration, and sustainability, successfully integrates telehealth into disaster relief efforts. This model offers valuable insights for future telehealth initiatives in disaster response scenarios, particularly in developing nations affected by flood emergencies.
Enhancing Obesity Detection Through SMOTE -based Classification Models: A comparative Study
Objective: To use SMOTE to enhance class balance and compare the performance of different classification methods before and after applying SMOTE. Methods: The study used a dataset from Kaggle. Consisted of several health-related features linked to obesity prediction. Checking for class imbalance within the dataset affected initial model performance. SMOTE was applied to synthetically increase the representation of minority classes, reducing the class imbalance. It was conducted in two stages: 1. Training and testing the classification algorithms before applying SMOTE. 2. Training and testing the same models after applying SMOTE to enhance class balance. The performance of all models was evaluated based on metrics before and after the SMOTE application. Results: Models Logistic Regression and Naive Bayes struggled with low sensitivity and specificity, and KNN (k=5) showed poor specificity. Significant improvements were observed across all models after applying SMOTE. Logistic Regression, despite a decrease in accuracy(-8.8), sensitivity and specificity increased substantially(+56.7%), with balanced accuracy improving(+16.6%). Naive Bayes saw a modest accuracy increase(+2.3%), with sensitivity and specificity improving(+47.9%). The KNN classifier exhibited a transformative enhancement with sensitivity and specificity increasing(+96.0%) and balanced accuracy(+28.3%). Deep Learning showed a significant increase in sensitivity (+69.8%), balanced accuracy (+29.4%), and an improvement in precision and F1-score despite a slight decrease in specificity(-10.9%). Conclusion: The results demonstrate that while there might be slight trade-offs, the overall improvements in key metrics such as sensitivity, specificity, balanced accuracy, precision, and F1-score affirm the utility of SMOTE in enhancing model performance for imbalanced datasets
synthetic minority over-sampling technique
Principles of clinical medicine for spaceflight: The NASA twin study and further evidence
Background: A vision of space medicine as applied to deep space travel is challenging. As space missions increase in duration in space and extend beyond Earth's orbit, the risks involved in working in these extreme and isolated conditions will also increase. The effects suffered by astronauts in space can be related to two variables: radiation and microgravity. The health hazards range from increased exposure to radiation, decreased body mass, telomere lengthening, genome instability, carotid artery distension, increased intima-media thickness, and changes in the skin microbiome. If an astronaut overcomes a flight in microgravity for 3 to 6 months, he will develop physiological adaptations that lead to orthostatic intolerance. All of the above is necessary to interpret and recognize that zero gravity and a prolonged trip can cause problems in the body of an astronaut yet to be identified. Objective: To demonstrate the conditions of astronauts in low orbit described by scientific studies in aerospace medicine. Methods: A literature review was performed, and 58 articles were found from NASA, Pubmed, and Nature Reviews databases. The open-access Mendeley program was used to manage and organize information.
Congress Memorys of the "I International Congress in Neurology, Neurosurgery, Neuropsychiatry and Clinical, Functional and Advanced Neuropsychology"
Clinical, Functional and Advanced Neuropsychology
Copyright (c) 2023 Interdisciplinary Journal of Epidemiology and Public Health https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Human intelligence for authors, reviewers and editors using artificial intelligence
We call artificial intelligence any machine that processes information with some purpose, complying with the logical rules of Turing's computation described more than 70 years ago. These machines work with instructions called algorithms, a finite and well-defined sequence of information processing implemented by automata (computers) or any digital technology to optimize a process. This means that the purpose of artificial intelligence is optimization
Pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis: clinical and therapeutic aspects
Introduction: venous thromboembolism encompasses deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism; It represents the third most important vascular disease, causing high potentially preventable morbidity and mortality. Treatment focuses on early anticoagulation to prevent complications, but that does not always restore venous patency. In this scenario, thrombolysis is an option, especially in patients with significant hemodynamic compromise or with involvement of high-risk anatomical segments; However, those who are not candidates to receive thrombolytics pose a greater challenge. Objective: to present the clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic characteristics, emphasizing the endovascular options available, describing their techniques and indications, highlighting their benefits and safety to treat patients with venous thromboembolism. Methods: narrative review based on the bibliographic search in the PubMed and Scielo databases. Conclusion: This review highlights endovascular management techniques for venous thromboembolism compared to classic thrombolytic therapy, especially in patients with high risk of bleeding; as well as in those who are contraindicated with systemic thrombolytics such as new oral anticoagulants due to hemodynamic compromise. Among the options available for endovascular therapy are catheter-directed thrombolysis and cutaneous embolectomy, which have lower rates of recurrence and complications after their application, highlighting that the choice must be individualized for each patient.
Respiratory diseases in children under five years of age and air pollution by PM10 in four communes in eastern Cali-Colombia
Background: Acute respiratory diseases are one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality in children under five years of age, and the notable increase in the number of cases is mainly associated with the high concentration of polluting particles in the environment, including particulate matter. PM10. Objective: Describe the geographical distribution of respiratory diseases in children under five years of age and the concentration of PM19 particulate matter in three communes of the municipality of Cali in 2015. Methods: Retrospective descriptive study. Using a secondary database from the district public health secretary, cases of ERA respiratory disease, presented in 2015, were described. Geo-referencing maps were prepared. Results: It was found that the Compartir and Navarro monitoring stations contribute the highest levels of PM10 in the city, with averages of 56.98 and 50.53, respectively. Between 06:00 and 09:00, the main average levels of PM10 in Cali were presented in total during 2015. Conclusion: Acute respiratory diseases in children under five in Cali during 2015 significantly correlated with high concentrations of PM10 particulate matter. The Compartir and Navarro monitoring stations recorded the highest levels of PM10, with peak pollution occurring between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM. These findings underscore the urgent need to improve air quality to reduce infant morbidity and mortality due to respiratory diseases in the city of Cali.
Cali District Secretary of Health. Street 4B #36-00. Phone 6025542267
Burned with gunpowder during the festivities of December: Effects of Law 670-2001 in Cali-Colombia
Introduction: Gunpowder injuries generate high socio-economic costs and environmental damage. An analysis is presented fifteen years after issuing a national policy to avoid injuries due to this cause. Objective: To describe the behavior of injuries related to the use of gunpowder during the holiday celebrations in Santiago de Cali-Colombia during the period 2002-2016. Method: Retrospective descriptive study. Using the secondary database of the Social Observatory and SIVIGILA, the cases of people burned by gunpowder in the city were characterized. Results: We identified 655 injured by gunpowder in December; 83% of the injured were men, and 43% were minors, being the group of 10 to 14 years the most affected, a significant decrease was reached in the group of the early childhood The most affected parts were upper limbs and head. Conclusion: The policy has had a positive impact on protecting early childhood. It is recommended that the law be more widely disseminated in the pre-December period and that education with a gender focus be promoted, aimed at the educational community (schoolchildren, teachers, and parents) in order to influence patriarchal customs such as the use of gunpowder to celebrate and the reduction of burnings in other minors in order to increase the impact of the existing regulations
Integrated management of a dengue outbreak in corregimiento la Buitrera, Santiago de Cali, Colombia
Background: Dengue is a highly prevalent arbovirosis, with great epidemiological, social, and economic impact worldwide. In Cali, this disease presents asynchronous behavior. The Corregimiento La Buitrera, a rural area of Cali, regularly reports cases of dengue, however, during 2022 an unusual increase in cases led the Cali District Health Secretariat to carry out articulated actions to contain the outbreak. Objective: Describe the comprehensive management actions that allowed containing a dengue outbreak in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: An active review of the notification of cases of dengue, severe dengue, and death due to dengue in SIVIGILA was carried out. The management was carried out in five institutions where users of the Corregimiento were served and integrated vector management activities were evaluated and monitored. Results: 16 cases of dengue were detected in the La Buitrera district. The percentage of dengue cases reported for 2022 (2.58%) exceeded those of epidemic years (2016 and 2020) in Santiago de Cali. 47.75% of the cases corresponded to DENV-2. 15.9% of the homes and 25% of the human concentrations inspected had at least one Aedes aegypti breeding site. The main difficulty in the IPS evaluation was adherence to the guidelines and management protocols for vector-borne diseases. Conclusion: The articulated and timely actions of the District Public Health Secretariat significantly influenced the containment of the outbreak, which can serve as a model for future epidemiological situations.
Experience in providing care to women victims of violence in Consultorios Rosa, Cali, Colombia
Objective: To describe the care process received by women victims of gender violence in intimate partner relationships through the strategy of the Consultorios Rosa (hillside health networkESE and north health network ESE) in Cali during the period 2020 – 2022. Methods: Was carried out qualitative research of a phenomenological type from the study on women victims of intimate partner violence. Through the development of semi-structured interviews, the experiences of health care in the pink office strategy, which operates in the primary care centers in Cali, Colombia, were analyzed. Results: The violence against women in couple relationships was caused by multiple violent expressions that affect emotional, mental, and physical health and exposure to femicide. The Consultorios Rosa strategy represents an opportunity for women to make the initial recovery and can address the situation experienced and give it new meaning; however, the strategy is susceptible to improvements that restore women's rights in the health sector. Conclusions: Women continue to be victims of psychological, emotional, physical, economic, and sexual abuse, experiencing violent situations in their relationships; all violent expressions affect their health, well-being, and life, evidencing emotional, mental, and physical consequences. Therefore, it continues to be a priority public health problem to intervene. Public health strategies play a crucial role in the recovery of women victims of violence. However, their scope is underestimated if the interventions are not accompanied by timely access to justice. Interdisciplinary and interinstitutional care is necessary to provide comprehensive services to women victims of violence from the health sector.
Evaluation of the obstetric risk in prenatal care in a basic level of complexity
Introduction: Prenatal care (PC) is recommended to be carried out in each pregnant woman aimed at identifying any risks that might compromise her health and that of her fetus, to intervene them for a safe and healthy pregnancy. Objective: To determine if the Obstetric Risk (OR) classification at the Eastern Health Network (ESE O) meets the shock plan criteria defined by the Secretariat of Public Health (SSP) in 2012. Methods: An analysis of the case histories of 165 pregnant women was carried out. Follow-up of standards and guidelines were considered. Results: Adherence of general practitioners (GP) and obstetrician-gynaecologists (OG) to the shock plan OR classification was found; the first PC occurred before week 12 in almost 50% of the pregnant women, however, 70% of the institutions attended the first PC in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. No statistical difference in OR classification was found at the first PC, between GP and OG (p-value=0.06). The opportunity for evaluation by the OG was not done as recommended for high or very high-risk pregnant women, 27.8% of pregnant women did not have an appointment with the OG. Conclusion: No clear decisions were found aimed at reviewing the initial classification of the OR, expected by the 36 weeks of pregnancy by the GO, generating unnecessary referrals to higher levels of care. The new-born weight was not associated to the OR classification. Systematic evaluations of this type are required in all health entities that care for pregnant women.
Umbrella diagram for the analysis of protective and risk factors in public health
The “umbrella” diagram is focused on the analysis of protective and risk factors, born from the Public Health program “Cuidarse is Cool”. This document describes the diagram construction process through a series of examples that provide a simple view of how protective and risk factors interact in the individual along four main axes: family, school, free time, and friends and peers. .
The complex and heterogeneous evidence describing cell biology in neuroinflammation
Neuroinflammation is a complex integration of responses of all cells present within the Central Nervous System, including neurons, macroglia, microglia, and infiltrating leukocytes. Neuroinflammatory disorders occur when the immune system becomes too active and attacks healthy cells, having an underlying pathology surrounding them. The immune system can damage parts of the central nervous system. Cell biology is broad in addressing and defining a brain that faces inflammation. Understanding pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory action in the brain depends on microglia and astrocytes. Several animal studies have identified inflammatory markers, including IL-1, TNF-α, and IL-6 mRNA. A particular review by "Johns Hopkins Medicine International" concluded that understanding neuroinflammation from an ischemic lesion is paramount, proposing research perspectives and recognizing in vitro studies that allow us to search for alternative therapies to improve patients.
Level of knowledge about tuberculosis in a population sample in the city of Matehuala, San Luis Potosi
Objective: We evaluated the knowledge of tuberculosis in the population of the municipality of Matehuala, San Luis Potosí. Methods: The study focused on collecting quantitative data on tuberculosis in adults (<18 years old). An instrument based on WHO guidelines was used. Ten questions about diagnosis, treatment, causative agent, and disease symptoms were asked. Data were collected in Google FORMS and analyzed with SPSS. Results: Forty-six people were surveyed with a low knowledge of the disease. Thirty-five percent of the participants had never heard of tuberculosis. Some had incorrect ideas about the transmission of the disease: it is transmitted through mosquito bites (10.8%) or consumption of street food (19.5%). 65.2% correctly identified that bacteria cause TB. Approximately half of the respondents were unaware that people with malnutrition or HIV are at higher risk of contracting the disease. As for the symptoms of TB, 63% correctly identified them; many were unaware of the difficulty of diagnosing the disease in certain groups (e.g., children). Regarding treatment, the majority (93.4%) recognized that tuberculosis is treated with specific drugs; 23.9% mistakenly thought there was no cure. Conclusion: The need to improve the dissemination of accurate information and educate the population about tuberculosis, symptoms, transmission methods, prevention, and treatment is highlighted. It is essential to increase public awareness and provide adequate education to implement effective strategies for controlling and preventing this disease.