[Prevalence of risk factors for cardiovascular disease in the Guaraní-Mbyá population of the State of Rio de Janeiro]

The impact of urbanisation on the cardiometabolic health of Indigenous Brazilian peoples: a systematic review and meta-analysis, and data from the Brazilian Health registry

BACKGROUND

Indigenous Brazilian peoples have faced an unparalleled increase in the rate of cardiovascular diseases following rapid nutritional transition to more urban diets. We aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the association between urbanisation (including data from Amazon rainforest deforestation) and cardiometabolic risk factors and outcomes.

METHODS

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus for articles published in any language between the year 1950 and March 10, 2022. Studies conducted in Indigenous Brazilian adults that evaluated metabolic health were included. Data for deforestation was obtained by the Amazon Deforestation Monitoring Project. Cardiovascular mortality was obtained from the Brazilian Health registry. Two independent reviewers evaluated studies for risk of bias, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses recommendations. The main outcomes assessed were the prevalence of obesity and related cardiometabolic risk factors among Indigenous Brazilian peoples and its association with urbanisation. Summary data were extracted from published reports for the meta-analyses. We calculated pooled estimates of the prevalence of each cardiometabolic outcome by using a random-effects model (DerSimonian-Laird method). This study is registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews, CRD42021285480.

FINDINGS

46 studies were identified, including a total of 20 574 adults from at least 33 Indigenous Brazilian ethnicities. Meta-analyses of the prevalence of obesity showed that there were higher rates of obesity (midwest region: 23% [95% CI 17-29]; and south region 23% [13-34]) and hypertension (south region: 30% [10-50]) in Indigenous peoples living in urban regions of Brazil, while the lowest rates of obesity (11% [95% CI 8-15]) and hypertension (1% [1-2]) were observed in those in the less urbanised (north) regions of Brazil. The prevalence of obesity was 3·5 times higher in participants living in urbanised Indigenous territories (28%) than in those living in lands with >80% native Amazon rainforest (8%). In meta-analyses that evaluated blood pressure level, there was no incremental change in blood pressure with ageing in Indigenous peoples who lived according to traditional lifestyle, in contrast to those living in urbanised regions. For Indigenous men with traditional lifestyles, systolic blood pressure changed from 109·8 mm Hg to 104·4 mm Hg between the youngest (<30 years) and the oldest (>60 years) age groups, and diastolic blood pressure changed from 69·8 mm Hg to 66·1 mm Hg. For Indigenous women with traditional lifestyles, systolic blood pressure was 100·0 mm Hg for the youngest age group with no changes for older age groups, and diastolic blood pressure was 62 mm Hg for the youngest age group with no changes for older age groups. For Indigenous men with urbanised lifestyles, systolic blood pressure changed from 117·3 mm Hg to 124·9 mm Hg between the youngest and the oldest age groups, and diastolic blood pressure changed from 72·7 mm Hg to 76·4 mm Hg. For Indigenous women with urbanised lifestyles, systolic blood pressure changed from 110·0 mm Hg to 116·0 mm Hg between the youngest and the oldest age groups, and diastolic blood pressure changed from 68·3 mm Hg to 74·0 mm Hg. For the years 1997 and 2019, the cardiovascular mortality rate in individuals living in the southeast region (the most urbanised) was 2·5 times greater than that observed in the north. Conversely, the incremental rise in cardiovascular mortality in the past two decades among Indigenous Brazilians living in the north or northeast (2·7 times increase) stands in stark contrast to the stable rates in those living in already urbanised regions.

INTERPRETATION

The macrosocial changes of Indigenous peoples' traditional ways of living consequent to urbanisation are associated with an increased prevalence of adverse cardiometabolic outcomes. These data highlight the urgent need for environmental policies to ensure the conservation of the natural ecosystem within Indigenous territories, as well as the development of socio-health policies to improve the cardiovascular health of Indigenous Brazilians peoples living in urban areas.

FUNDING

None.

Glycemic profile and associated factors in indigenous Munduruku, Amazonas

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the glycemic profile and its association with sociodemographic, anthropometric, clinical and lifestyle factors of Munduruku indigenous people.

METHOD

Cross-sectional study with a quantitative and analytical approach, a total of 459 indigenous people (57.1% men, aged 36.3 ± 14.7 years old) belonging to the Munduruku ethnic group from the Kwatá-Laranjal Indigenous Land, in Amazonas, Brazil, were selected by probabilistic sampling in all households in the four most populous villages. Sociodemographic and anthropometric variables, blood pressure levels and lipid profile were evaluated. Fasting capillary blood glucose was measured with a digital device. The associations were assessed by multinomial logistic regression, and p-values≤0.05 were considered significant.

RESULTS

For pre-diabetes, prevalence was 74.3% and, for diabetes, 12.2%. The variables associated with the risk for pre-diabetes were the following: age (OR = 1.03; 95% CI = 1.00 - 1.06) and obesity (OR = 9.69; 95% CI = 1.28 - 73.58). The positive associations indicating risk for diabetes were as follows: age (OR = 1.05; 95% CI = 1.03 - 1.08), overweight (OR = 4.17; 95% CI = 1.69 - 10.32) and obesity (OR = 35.26; 95% CI = 4.12 - 302.08).

CONCLUSIONS

The risks associated with pre-diabetes and diabetes among the Munduruku indigenous people revealed a worrying index. It is necessary to consider changes in eating habits and lifestyle, as well as possible environmental and social changes that can affect this and other groups, with emphasis on those who live in vulnerable conditions.

Mortalidade proporcional nos povos indígenas no Brasil nos anos 2000, 2010 e 2018

RESUMO O objetivo do estudo foi analisar a mortalidade indígena no Brasil em 2000, 2010 e 2018. Estudo descritivo com dados do Sistema de Informação sobre Mortalidade. Calculou-se a mortalidade proporcional entre indígenas e restante da população brasileira, segundo idade, sexo, causa e regiões do Brasil. A proporção de óbitos em indígenas menores de 1 ano em 2000, 2010 e 2018 foi de 15,3%, 17,7% e 16,2%; e no restante do Brasil, foi de 7,2%, 3,5% e 2,7% respectivamente. A proporção de óbitos a partir de 50 anos nos indígenas nos mesmos anos foi de 47,0%, 48,1% e 52,0%; e no restante do Brasil, foi de 66,8%, 74,4% e 79,4%. Em 2018, indígenas menores de 1 ano morreram mais de afecções perinatais (39,4%), doenças infecciosas e parasitárias (10,1%) e causas externas (9,8%). Em menores de 1 ano do restante da população brasileira, essas causas corresponderam a 57,8%, 3,8% e 2,8%. Indígenas acima de 50 anos morreram mais por doenças circulatórias (28,6%), respiratórias (15,4%) e neoplasias (14,6%); e no restante da população brasileira, essas causas representaram 31,5%, 13,6% e 19,0%. Evidenciaram-se desigualdades em saúde e piores indicadores nos povos indígenas no Brasil.

Socioeconomic determinants of excess weight and obesity among Indigenous women: findings from the First National Survey of Indigenous People's Health and Nutrition in Brazil

Objective:

This article assesses the nutritional status of Indigenous women from 14 to 49 years of age in Brazil.

Design:

Sample size was calculated for each region considering a prevalence of 50 % for all disease outcomes, a relative error of 5 % and a CI of 95 %. In the initial data analysis, the prevalence of excess weight and obesity was calculated according to independent variables. Multivariate multilevel hierarchical analyses were conducted based on a theoretical model of two ranked blocks.

Setting:

The 2010 Indigenous population in Brazil was 896 000, with approximately 300 Indigenous ethnic groups, making Brazil one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the Americas and the world.

Participants:

Of the total target sample of 6722 women evaluated by the National Survey, thirty did not participate, 939 were not eligible for analyses due to pregnancy or unknown pregnancy status, and thirty-nine were excluded due to missing anthropometric data.

Results:

The evaluation of nutritional status was completed for 5714 non-pregnant women (99·3 % of eligible participants for this outcome). High prevalence rates were encountered for both excess weight (46·2 %) and obesity (15·8 %) among the sampled women. In the multivariate analyses, higher socioeconomic indicators, market-integrated living conditions and less reliance on local food production, as well as increased age and parity were associated with excess weight and obesity.

Conclusion:

Results point to distinct patterns of associations between socioeconomic indicators and the occurrence of excess weight and obesity among Indigenous women, which have potentially significant implications from a public policy perspective for Indigenous peoples in Brazil.

[Estimated prevalence of hypertension and associated factors in Krenak indigenous adults in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil]

This cross-sectional study in 2016 aimed to describe the estimated prevalence of systemic arterial hypertension and associated factors in Krenak adults and elderly in an indigenous community located along the Rio Doce in eastern Minas Gerais state, Brazil. We measured weight, height, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and capillary blood glucose. Sociodemographic and lifestyle information was obtained from a face-to-face questionnaire. Poisson regression models were constructed to estimate independent associations between the target variables and hypertension. Prevalence of hypertension was 31.2% (95%CI: 24.4-37.9) in Krenak indigenous. The final model showed an independent association with increasing age, abdominal obesity, and hyperglycemia. The results highlight the need for effective measures in prevention, diagnosis, and follow-up of modifiable risk factors for hypertension, since high prevalence of this condition was observed in the Krenak indigenous community.

Prevalence of overweight and obesity in the adult indigenous population in Brazil: A systematic review with meta-analysis

To carry out a systematic review to identify the prevalence of overweight and obesity in the adult indigenous population in Brazil. The databases used were PubMed, Scopus, Virtual Health Library (VHL), and Science Direct, with the following search strategy: "overweight" OR "obesity" AND "indigenous" OR "tribe" AND "Brazil". For the meta-analysis, RStudio^® software was used. Were 22 articles included. The combined effect of the meta-analysis studies showed a global prevalence of overweight and obesity of 45%. Approximately half (45%) of indigenous Brazilian adults have excess weight. These findings highlight the need to implement public policies for the prevention and treatment of these morbidities.

Cardiovascular risk factors with an emphasis on hypertension in the Mura Indians from Amazonia

BACKGROUND

The Brazilian indigenous population is currently undergoing a process of epidemiological transition regarding the occurrence of communicable diseases, malnutrition and non-communicable chronic diseases. Chronic non-infectious diseases are the most common causes of death worldwide, and hypertension is one of the main cardiovascular risk factors. Thus, the main objective of this paper was to evaluate the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors, with an emphasis on hypertension, in the Mura Indians living in the municipality of Autazes in the northern Brazilian state of Amazonas.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 455 natives (57.8% women, 42.2 ± 16.7 years) selected by simple random sampling. Sociodemographic variables, habits and lifestyles, anthropometric data, fasting glycaemia and lipid profiles were evaluated. Blood pressure was measured with a validated automatic device. Values of p ≤ 0.05 were considered significant.

RESULTS

The prevalence of hypertension was 26.6%. The other cardiovascular risk factors were as follows: increased waist-hip ratio (85.1%); increased neck circumference (60.2%); increased waist circumference (48.6%); overweight (57.1%); physical inactivity (52.7%); use of alcoholic beverages (40.2%); high total cholesterol (27.5%); increased triglycerides (23.5%); smoking (20.4%); and diabetes mellitus (3.0%). In relation to non-hypertensive individuals, indigenous hypertensive individuals were (p ≤ 0.05) older and had a higher proportion of individuals living with partners and individuals who were retired, as well as a lower level of schooling and higher family income. The indigenous people living in urban areas had a higher prevalence of hypertension than did those living in rural areas. In relation to habits and lifestyles, hypertensive Indians had a lower prevalence of smoking, higher frequency of the use of animal fat during meal preparation, lower frequency of vegetable oil use and lower frequency of salt addition to already-prepared meals. An assessment of anthropometric variables and laboratory markers showed that the hypertensive indigenous individuals had higher values of body mass index, neck circumference, waist circumference, visceral fat, Conicity Index, and body fat than did the non-hypertensive individuals.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of hypertension and other important cardiovascular risk factors in the Mura Indians was high. This finding is probably due to the adoption of inappropriate habits and lifestyles.

[Hypertension prevalence among indigenous populations in Brazil: a systematic review with meta-analysis]

OBJECTIVE

Evaluating the evidence of hypertension prevalence among indigenous populations in Brazil through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

A search was performed by two reviewers, with no restriction of date or language in the databases of PubMed, LILACS, SciELO, Virtual Health Library and Capes Journal Portal. Also, a meta-regression model was designed in which the last collection year of each study was used as a moderating variable.

RESULTS

23 articles were included in the review. No hypertension was found in indigenous populations in 10 studies, and its prevalence was increasing and varied, reaching levels of up to 29.7%. Combined hypertension prevalence in Indigenous from the period of 1970 to 2014 was 6.2% (95% CI, 3.1% - 10.3%). In the regression, the value of the odds ratio was 1.12 (95% CI, 1.07 - 1.18; p <0.0001), indicating a 12% increase every year in the probability of an indigenous person presenting hypertension.

CONCLUSION

There has been a constant increase in prevalence despite the absence of hypertension in about half of the studies, probably due to changes in cultural, economic and lifestyle habits, resulting from indigenous interaction with non-indigenous society.

Unraveling Brazilian Indian population prostate good health: clinical, anthropometric and genetic features

PURPOSE

To compare dietary, lifestyle, clinical, anthropometric, genetic and prostatic features of Brazilian Indians and non-Indians (Amazon).

METHODS

315 men, 228 Indians and 89 non-Indians, ≥ 40 years old were submitted to digital rectal examination, serum prostate specific antigen (PSA), testosterone, TP53 and GSTP1 genotyping, anthropometric, lifestyle, dietary, personal and familial medical history. Prostatic symptoms were evaluated with the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS).

RESULTS

Macuxis and Yanomamis represented 43.6% and 14.5% of Indians respectively who spontaneously referred no prostate symptoms. Mean IPSS was 7, range 3-19, with only 15% of moderate symptoms (score 8-19); Mean age was 54.7 years, waist circumference 86.6 cm, BMI 23.9 kg/m(2). Yanomamis presented both lower BMI (21.4 versus 24.8 and 23.3, p=0,001) and prostate volume than Macuxis and "other ethnic groups" (15 versus 20, p=0.001). Testosterone (414 versus 502 and 512, p=0.207) and PSA (0.48 versus 0.6 and 0.41, p=0.349) were similar with progressive PSA increase with aging. Val/Val correlated with lower PSA (p=0.0361). Indians compared to control population presented: - TP53 super representation of Arg/Arg haplotype, 74.5% versus 42.5%, p<0.0001. -GSTP1 Ile/Ile 35.3% versus 60.9%; Ile/Val 45.9% versus 28.7%; Val/Val 18.8% versus 10.3%; p=0.0003.

CONCLUSIONS

Observed specific dietary, lifestyle, anthropometric and genetic profile for TP53 and GSTP1 may contribute to Brazilian Indian population prostate good health.

Epidemiology of high blood pressure among the Kaingang people on the Xapecó Indigenous Land in Santa Catarina State, Brazil, 2013

This cross-sectional study describes the prevalence of high blood pressure (HBP; measured at one setting, and suggestive of a clinical diagnosis of arterial hypertension) and mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and their associations with socio-demographic and anthropometric variables among 355 Kaingang adults (≥ 20 years) on the Xapecó Indigenous Land in Brazil. Weight, height, waist circumference (WC), SBP, and DBP were measured and socio-demographic data were collected. Prevalence of HBP was 53.2% (95%CI: 45.3; 61.1) in men and 40.7% (95%CI: 33.8; 47.6) in women. In women, age and WC were directly associated with HBP; age was associated with SBP and schooling with DBP. In men, HBP was statistically associated with high body mass index (BMI) and tile floor in the home (as a socioeconomic proxy); BMI and WC were associated with SBP; BMI and WC were associated with DBP. The study highlights the need for measures to control risk factors for HBP, especially due to its relevance for cardiovascular diseases and their consequences.

Prevalence of Obesity and Overweight in an Indigenous Population in Central Brazil: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the prevalence of obesity and overweight and associated factors in indigenous people of the Jaguapiru village in Central Brazil.

METHODS

We conducted a population-based cross-sectional study between January 2009 and July 2011 in the adult native population of the Jaguapiru village, Central Brazil. Sociodemographic and lifestyle data were obtained; anthropometric measures, arterial blood pressure, and blood glucose were measured. The independent variables were tested by Poisson regression, and the interactions between them were analyzed.

RESULTS

1,608 indigenous people (982 females, mean age 37.7 ± 15.1 years) were included. The prevalence of obesity was 23.2% (95% CI 20.9-25.1%). Obesity was more prevalent among 40- to 49-year-old and overweight among 50- to 59-year-old persons. Obesity was positively associated with female sex, higher income, and hypertension. Among indigenous people, interactions were found with hypertension and sedentary lifestyle - hypertension in males and sedentary lifestyle in females.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of obesity and overweight in indigenous people of the Jaguapiru village is high. Males as well as hypertensive and higher family income individuals have higher rates. Sedentary lifestyle and hypertension leverage the rates of obesity. Prevention and adequate public health policies can be critical for the control of excess weight and its comorbidities among Brazilian indigenous people.

Prevalence of metabolic syndrome in the Brazilian Xavante indigenous population

BACKGROUND

The raising prevalence of weight excess and of non-communicable diseases in indigenous populations, as well as changes in food consumption and reduction in the frequency and intensity of physical activity, suggest that the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) is also elevated. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of MS and the frequency of its components in the Xavante adult population living in the Indian reservations of São Marcos and Sangradouro/Volta Grande, in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil. A cross-sectional study was carried out among 932 Xavante Indians aged 20 years or more, in the 2008-2012 period. The variables analysed were gender, age, weight, height, waist circumference, blood pressure, initial and 2-h capillary glycemia in a 75 g OGTT, levels of triglycerides and HDL-cholesterol. The diagnostic criteria for MS proposed by the IDF and AHA/NHLBI were used.

RESULTS

The prevalence of MS was 66.1 % (95 % CI 63.0-69.2), being 76.2 % (95 % CI 72.4-80.0) in women and 55.6 % (95 % CI 51.0-60.2) in men. Women had higher prevalence of MS in all age groups. Elevated waist circumference and lower levels of HDL-cholesterol were the more frequent components in those with MS, and elevated blood pressure was the less frequent.

CONCLUSIONS

The high prevalence of MS in the Xavante Indians is mainly due to the increased prevalence of weight excess that resulted from an intense change in their life-style, in a short period of time in a population with a genetic predisposition. These findings highlight the magnitude of this health problem and make an alert about the necessity to implement specific preventive interventions.

Incidence of metabolic syndrome and related diseases in the Khisêdjê indigenous people of the Xingu, Central Brazil, from 1999-2000 to 2010-2011

The aim of this study was to identify the incidence of metabolic syndrome and related diseases in the Khisêdjê population living in the Xingu Indigenous Park, Mato Grosso State, Brazil, from 1999‐2000 to 2010‐2011. The study included 78 individuals aged ≥20 years. Data were analyzed using Student t test, linear regression, and Poisson regression. In 10 years of follow-up, cumulative incidence rates were 37.5% for metabolic syndrome, 47.4% for hypetriglyceridemia, 38.9% for arterial hypertension, 32% for central obesity, 30.4% for excess weight, 29.1% for hypercholesterolemia, 25% for low HDLc, 10.4% for high LDLc, and 2.9% for diabetes mellitus. Age proved to be a risk factor for incidence of hypertension, diabetes, and elevated LDLc, regardless of gender; male gender was a protective factor against incidence of central obesity, independently of age. The study showed deterioration of most target health indicators and exposure of the Khisêdjê to high cardiometabolic risk. These results may be related to changes in traditional lifestyle.

Prevalence of hypertension and associated factors in an indigenous community of central Brazil: a population-based study

Objective

The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence of hypertension and cardiovascular risk factors among the native indigenous of Jaguapiru village in Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.

Method

A cross-sectional, population-based study was conducted with adult indigenous aged 18 years or more. The subjects' blood pressure was measured twice, and the mean of the two measurements was calculated. Body weight, height, capillary blood glucose and waist circumference were measured. Pregnant women, individuals using glucocorticoids, and non-indigenous villagers and their offspring were excluded. Multivariate regression analyses were conducted on the socio-demographic and clinical independent variables. Interactions between independent variables were also tested.

Results

We included 1,608 native indigenous eligible to the research. The prevalence of hypertension was 29.5% (95% CI: 27–31.5), with no significant difference between the genders. For both men and women, diastolic hypertension was more common than systolic hypertension. The prevalence of hypertension was higher among obese, diabetic, and older participants, as well as those who consumed alcohol, had a lower educational level, or had a family history of hypertension. There was no association between hypertension and tobacco smoking or family income.

Conclusion

Hypertension among the indigenous from Jaguapiru village was similar to the prevalence in the Brazilians, but may have a more negative effect in such disadvantaged population. The associated factors we found can help drawing prevention policies.

[Degree of physical activity and metabolic syndrome: a cross-sectional study among the Khisêdjê group in the Xingu Indigenous Park, Brazil]

This study aimed to verify the existence of an association between degree of physical activity and presence of metabolic syndrome in the Khisêdjê indigenous group. The authors evaluated 170 individuals 20 years or older, based on demographic data, physical examination, and laboratory tests. The data were analyzed with the chi-square test (p < 0.05), crude and adjusted prevalence ratios (point and 95% confidence intervals), and Student's t-test. Satisfactory results were observed in relation to cardiorespiratory endurance, flexibility, bending of arms and trunk, and measurement of physical activity according to the number of steps/day. Prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 27.8% and was higher in women, the 39-49-year and ≥ 50-year age groups, and in individuals with lower performance on the cardiorespiratory endurance test, horizontal impulse, and number of steps/day. The results indicate the need for greater surveillance in the control and prevention of risk factors for metabolic syndrome.

Níveis tensionais de adultos indígenas Suruí, Rondônia, Brasil

Os povos indígenas no Brasil vivenciam acelerado processo de transição nutricional e epidemiológica, verificando-se a emergência de doenças e agravos não transmissíveis, como hipertensão arterial (HA). Realizou-se, em 2005, um estudo transversal para descrever os níveis tensionais em adultos (> 20 anos) indígenas Suruí, Rondônia, e investigar sua relação com o estado nutricional e o nível socioeconômico (SSE). Foram visitadas 9 aldeias e avaliados 251 indivíduos (87,4% dos elegíveis). As médias de pressão arterial sistólica (PAS) e pressão arterial diastólica (PAD) foram maiores no sexo masculino e superiores às verificadas em 1988, com incremento na média da PAS de 7,9 mmHg e de 1,4 mmHg, em mulheres e homens, respectivamente. A PAS correlacionou-se positivamente com a razão cintura quadril (RCQ) em ambos os sexos, e com a idade, no sexo feminino. A PAD apresentou correlações estatisticamente significativas com todas as variáveis antropométricas, exceto com estatura e área muscular do braço. A prevalência de HA foi de 2,8% (M: 2,4%; F: 3,1%). Essa prevalência foi maior nos indivíduos > 40 anos, com perímetro da cintura (PC) ou RCQ elevados, sobretudo no grupo feminino e também no grupo de mais baixo de SSE. A HA é um problema de saúde emergente entre os Suruí, devendo receber atenção do sistema de saúde e dos pesquisadores.

Waist circumference and waist circumference to height ratios of Kaingáng indigenous adolescents from the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

The aim of this study was to describe the distribution of waist circumference (WC) and WC to height (WCTH) values among Kaingáng indigenous adolescents in order to estimate the prevalence of high WCTH values and evaluate the correlation between WC and WCTH and body mass index (BMI)-for-age. A total of 1,803 indigenous adolescents were evaluated using a school-based cross-sectional study. WCTH values > 0.5 were considered high. Higher mean WC and WCTH values were observed for girls in all age categories. WCTH values > 0.5 were observed in 25.68% of the overall sample of adolescents. Mean WC and WCTH values were significantly higher for adolescents with BMI/age z-scores > 2 than for those with normal z-scores. The correlation coefficients of WC and WCTH for BMI/age were r = 0.68 and 0.76, respectively, for boys, and r = 0.79 and 0.80, respectively, for girls. This study highlights elevated mean WC and WCTH values and high prevalence of abdominal obesity among Kaingáng indigenous adolescents.

Aspectos demográficos e mortalidade de populações indígenas do Estado do Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil

O objetivo do estudo foi o de analisar os aspectos demográficos e o padrão de mortalidade da população indígena aldeada do Estado do Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil, comparativamente ao da população total do estado. Foram calculados indicadores de mortalidade a partir dos dados obtidos do Sistema de Informação de Atenção à Saúde Indígena e do consolidado mensal, assim como, do módulo demográfico e do Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade do SUS. Observaram-se, na população indígena, comparativamente à do estado, maior proporção de indivíduos menores de 15 anos e menor de idosos e taxas mais elevadas de mortalidade em idades precoces e por doenças infecciosas e parasitárias. Os homens indígenas apresentaram taxas significativamente maiores para as causas externas, doenças do aparelho respiratório e doenças infecciosas. Entre as mulheres, apenas as causas externas e doenças infecciosas se destacaram. A grande importância dos suicídios na juventude apresentou-se como aspecto relevante. As condições de saúde da população indígena são piores que a da população total.

Nutritional vulnerability in Mbyá-Guaraní adolescents and adults from Misiones, Argentina

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the nutritional status and body composition in Mbyá-Guaraní adolescents and adults from three communities in the Province of Misiones, in northern Argentina.

METHODS

Anthropometric parameters were analyzed in 45 individuals (aged 14-60). Data were transformed to z-scores using NHANES I and II.

RESULTS

Ninety-three percent of the sample showed some kind of malnutrition (undernutrition and/or excess of weight). Stunting and overweight reached the highest prevalences (85.0 and 10.0%, respectively). The most Mbyá people were found to have low arm muscle and fat areas. They also tended to have shorter than normal lower limbs. Centralized obesity was evident in both sexes and in all the age intervals.

CONCLUSIONS

Extreme poverty, together with changes in life habits and diet composition, resulted in decrease of body size and changes in body proportions and composition. Although these changes could be considered as an adaptive response to the chronic exposure of these populations to adverse environmental conditions, they would favor the co-occurrence of malnutrition and overweight in a single scenario, and consequently increase the risk of infectious and nontransmissible diseases.

Socioeconomic status and body size among women in Honduran Miskito communities

BACKGROUND

This study investigates evidence of the nutrition transition among women in Miskito communities on the northeastern coast of Honduras.

AIM

The hypothesis that socioeconomic status (SES) is positively associated with body size and fatness is tested; and dietary and physical activity patterns are examined among SES groups.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

An anthropometric survey was conducted with 200 non-pregnant women following standard procedures. Dietary intake and physical activity data were collected using 24-hour recall methods. Women were categorized into three SES groups (high, medium and low) based on economic and social attributes. Differences in anthropometric measures, diet and physical activity among SES groups were analysed.

RESULTS

More than 70% (n = 142) of women in the sample were overweight or obese. Mean height, weight, skin-fold thicknesses, arm and calf circumferences, percentage body fat and upper-arm fat area were significantly greater among high SES women than low SES women. Women with high SES had lower rates of physical activity and higher rates of obesity, perceived food sufficiency, meat consumption, milk/dairy intake and general dietary diversity.

CONCLUSION

High SES women were significantly fatter than low SES women; and variation observed among groups is likely related to different patterns of dietary intake and physical activity.

Nutritional status, body composition, and intestinal parasitism among the Mbyá-Guaraní communities of Misiones, Argentina

Indigenous communities in Argentina represent socially and economically neglected populations. They are living in extreme poverty and environmental degradation conditions. New information about health status and socio-environmental features is urgently needed to be applied in future sanitary policies. Present study describes the nutritional status, body composition, and intestinal parasitism among Mbyá-Guaraní children from three communities in the Misiones Province. Anthropometric parameters were analyzed for 178 individuals (aged 1-14). Data were transformed to z-scores using NHANES I and II. Stunting showed the greatest prevalence (44.9%). Children were found to have low arm circumference and low arm muscle area, although with tricipital skinfold value near to the reference. They also tend to have shorter than normal lower limbs. Fecal samples and anal brushes (for Enterobius vermicularis) were collected in 45 children (aged 1-13). Ritchie's sedimentation and Willis' flotation techniques were used to determine parasitoses. Ninety five percent of children were infected with at least one species and 81.4% were polyparasitized. The higher prevalences corresponded to Blastocystis hominis, hookworms (Ancylostoma duodenale/Necator americanus), and Entamoeba coli. Associations occurred between hookworms with B. hominis/E. coli and B. hominis with nonpathogenic amoebas. Thirty nine percent of the children with stunting presented B. hominis, Strongyloides, and hookworms. Our results indicate that this indigenous population is subjected to extreme poverty conditions and is one of the most marginalized in this country. Severe growth stunting and parasitic infection are still quite common among Mbyá children affecting about half of them along with significant changes in body composition and proportions.

Perfil metabólico e antropométrico dos Suyá: Parque Indígena do Xingu, Brasil Central

OBJETIVO: Descrever o perfil metabólico e antropométrico de índios Suyá que vivem no Parque Indígena do Xingu (Mato Grosso). MÉTODO: Neste estudo transversal foram avaliados 86 índios Suyá com idade de > 20 anos, de ambos os sexos. Durante o exame físico foram obtidos os valores de pressão arterial, peso, altura, perímetros corporais e dobras cutâneas. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas para dosagem de lipoproteínas, glicemia e ácido úrico. Na análise dos dados foram utilizados os testes estatísticos qui-quadrado (para proporções) ou t de Student (para valores médios) nas comparações das distribuições das variáveis relativas ao estado nutricional e perfil metabólico, segundo sexo e faixa etária dos sujeitos. RESULTADOS: As mulheres, quando comparadas aos homens, apresentaram valores médios estatisticamente menores das variáveis antropométricas (peso, índice de massa corporal, perímetro de cintura, do braço e dobras cutâneas), de pressão arterial, triglicérides, VLDL e ácido úrico. Foram encontrados, entre os Suyá, 46,5%, com excesso de peso, 12,8% com obesidade generalizada, 38,4% com obesidade central, 26,7%, apresentaram alterações pressóricas, 4% glicemia de jejum alterada, 63,9% dislipidemia e 21,9% síndrome metabólica. CONCLUSÃO: Foram observadas alterações metabólicas e antropométricas entre os índios Suyá. Intervenções educativas devem ser implementadas para resgatar hábitos e estilo de vida tradicionais a fim de conter o avanço deste quadro.

Perfil nutricional e fatores associados à ocorrência de desnutrição entre crianças indígenas Kaingáng da Terra Indígena de Mangueirinha, Paraná, Brasil

Este estudo objetivou avaliar o estado nutricional de crianças indígenas e verificar os fatores associados à ocorrência de agravos nutricionais. Foram avaliadas 141 crianças Kaingáng de 0 a 60 meses de idade da Terra Indígena de Mangueirinha, Paraná, Brasil, por meio das medidas de peso e altura ou comprimento. Realizaram-se entrevistas com a aplicação de um questionário sobre condições materno-infantis e sócioeconômicas. Segundo os parâmetros da Organização Mundial da Saúde (2006), 24,8% das crianças apresentavam déficit de altura para idade (AI), 9,2% baixo peso para idade (PI), 2,1% baixo peso para altura (PA) e 2,1% baixo peso segundo o índice de massa corporal para idade (IMCI). De acordo com o NCHS (1977), 19,9% das crianças apresentaram baixa AI, 9,2% baixo PI e 1,4% baixo PA. O sobrepeso chegou a 6,4%, segundo o IMCI. O baixo peso ao nascer e os materiais utilizados na construção das paredes das casas estiveram estatisticamente associados com déficits antropométricos. Este estudo mostra que as crianças Kaingáng estão inseridas em um contexto marcado por precárias condições de vida, que estão associadas com indicadores desfavoráveis do estado nutricional.

[Metabolic and anthropometric profile of Aruák Indians: Mehináku, Waurá and Yawalapití in the Upper Xingu, Central Brazil, 2000-2002]

The objective of this study was to describe the anthropometric and metabolic profile of Aruák Indians (Mehináku, Waurá, and Yawalapití) in the Upper Xingu, Central Brazil. In July 2000 and October 2002, 201 subjects of both genders and aged >or= 20 years were submitted to physical (anthropometric and blood pressure measures) and laboratory (fasting blood glucose, serum lipids, and uric acid) examination. As compared to females, males had lower mean skinfold thickness measurements and serum HDL cholesterol, and higher body mass index, arm circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, serum triglycerides, VLDL cholesterol, and uric acid. The prevalence rates for overweight (51.8%), obesity (15%), dyslipidemia (77.1%), and hypertension (37.7%) were higher among men than women, but prevalence of abdominal obesity (52.1%) was higher among women than men, independently of age and origin. These results corroborate the need to implement measures to control and prevent obesity and other cardiovascular risk factors among these indigenous peoples.

Sazonalidade e estado nutricional de populações indígenas: o caso Wari', Rondônia, Brasil

A despeito da relevância do tema, as condições de alimentação e nutrição das populações indígenas no Brasil permanecem largamente desconhecidas. O presente estudo examina o caso de uma comunidade Wari', povo indígena localizado em Rondônia, no sudoeste amazônico. Foram realizados dois inquéritos antropométricos de modo a investigar a situação nutricional da população e analisar variações sazonais. Nos inquéritos, seis meses aparte, foram examinados 279 e 266 indivíduos com idades entre zero e 87 anos. As prevalências de baixa estatura (61,7%) e peso (51,7%) entre as crianças menores de cinco anos estão entre as mais elevadas já registradas na literatura sobre populações indígenas no Brasil. Sobrepeso e obesidade não são expressivos na população, seja qual for a faixa etária considerada. Os perfis antropométricos indicam condições mais desfavoráveis durante os meses de chuva, quando as prevalências de desnutrição em crianças aumentam e adultos de ambos os sexos apresentam menores médias de peso corporal. Aponta-se para a necessidade de se considerar a sazonalidade na definição de rotinas de vigilância nutricional e na discussão dos perfis de nutrição de povos indígenas.

Uso do Índice de Massa Corporal na avaliação do estado nutricional de adultos indígenas Xavánte, Terra Indígena Sangradouro-Volta Grande, Mato Grosso, Brasil

Este artigo examina as relações entre o Índice de Massa Corporal (IMC) e medidas antropométricas de composição corporal de adultos Xavánte, da aldeia São José, Terra Indígena Sangradouro-Volta Grande, Mato Grosso, Brasil, a fim de analisar a potencialidade do IMC como instrumento de avaliação do estado nutricional desse grupo indígena. O trabalho de campo foi realizado em janeiro e fevereiro de 1999, sendo aferidas medidas de massa corporal (MC); estatura (EST); perímetro braquial (PB), do quadril (PQUA) e do abdômen (PABD), e dobra cutânea tricipital (DCT) de 128 indivíduos. Os achados indicam, para ambos os sexos, uma alta correlação (r > 0,80) dos valores de IMC com a MC, PB e PABD. Houve, ainda, alta correlação do IMC com as áreas total e de gordura do braço, para as mulheres, e com o PQUA e a área total do braço, para os homens. Esses resultados sugerem que altos valores de IMC indicam excesso de tecido adiposo entre os Xavánte. Diante das evidências de um intenso processo de transição nutricional, resultando em aumento nas freqüências de sobrepeso e obesidade em adultos, é importante monitorar o perfil nutricional dos povos indígenas no Brasil.

Indigenous health in Latin America and the Caribbean

This review is the second in a series on Indigenous health, covering different regions and issues. We look briefly at the current state of Indigenous health in Latin America and the Caribbean, a region with over 400 different indigenous groups and a total population of 45 to 48 million people. We describe the complex history and current reality of Indigenous peoples' situation within the American continent. We discuss the importance of Indigenous health systems and medicines, and look at changing political environments in the region. The paper concludes with a discussion of the changing political and legislative environment in Latin American countries.

Crescimento físico e perfil nutricional da população indígena Xavánte de Sangradouro-Volta Grande, Mato Grosso, Brasil

Este estudo descreve o crescimento físico e avalia, por meio da antropometria, o estado nutricional de uma comunidade indígena Xavánte do Brasil Central. Foram tomadas medidas de peso, estatura, circunferência braquial e prega cutânea tricipital em 549 indivíduos de 0 a 90 anos. Comparadas à população-referência do NCHS, as crianças apresentam médias de estatura e peso baixas para a sua idade, embora mantenham a proporcionalidade corporal. De acordo com os critérios da OMS, 31,7% dos menores de cinco anos apresentam déficit estatural, enquanto 69,9% dos adultos apresentam algum grau de sobrepeso. As medidas de composição corporal em ambos os sexos mantêm-se entre os percentis 25 e 50 da população-referência do NCHS até a adolescência, quando superam as medianas. As médias de área muscular do braço, contudo, ficam consistentemente acima do percentil 50. Os autores chamam a atenção para a complexidade do quadro epidemiológico e nutricional dos Xavánte, argumentando que os achados do estudo têm implicações significativas para o sistema de assistência à saúde que atende a população, além de apontarem para questões ecológicas e sócio-econômicas relevantes, em particular no que tange à sustentabilidade alimentar e transição nutricional.

Prevalence of overweight and obesity among Guaraní-Mbyá from Misiones, Argentina

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of overweight and obesity and the fat distribution pattern in Mbyá-Guaraní children and adults from Misiones, Argentina. Height, weight, and triceps and subscapular skinfolds were measured in 197 individuals aged 2-60 years. Body mass index (BMI), fat and muscle areas, and subscapular/tricipital index were calculated. All data were transformed to z-scores using US references (NHANES I and II). Overweight and obesity were defined as BMIs between the 85th-95th or above the 95th percentile, respectively. Compared to NHANES references, the Mbyá were shorter and lighter, although their BMI was slightly higher. There were no substantial differences in body composition (fat and muscle) between the Mbyá and the reference. Prevalences of overweight and obesity reached (on average) 16.2 and 14.7%, respectively, and were similar in both sexes. Stunting was higher in females than in males (49.6 vs. 33.3%). Sixty percent of overweight and obese subjects showed a centralized adiposity pattern, and 49% had a high risk for abdominal adiposity. The present results provide new evidence of a striking increase in obesity rates in Amerindians as a part of the process of nutritional transition. The contribution of each component of energy balance, physical activity, and lifestyle could play an important role in this observed tendency, justifying further research in these transitional populations.

Nutritional status in two Mbyá-Guaraní communities from Misiones (Argentina)

Growth and nutritional status of children and adults in two Mbyá-Guaraní communities from Argentina, was assessed. Height, weight, sitting height, upper arm circumference, triceps and subscapular skinfold were measured on 120 individuals aged from 2 to 60 between March and May, 2001. Data were transformed to z-scores using United States references (NHANES I and NHANES II). A z-score of less than -2 was used as the cut-off point to determine the prevalence of stunting and wasting respectively. Mean z-scores for weight, height, and upper arm circumference lie below the reference (0 > Z > -3), while in sitting height ratio and muscular area for females they were above the US standard (0 < Z < 2). Skinfold thicknesses and muscular area for males were similar to the reference (2 > Z > -1). Our findings are in agreement with others South American Indian research that the prevalence of stunting (36.7%) is significantly higher than wasting (1.8%). The presence of parasitic infections and nutritional environment previously described in this population could be related to the short stature.