Investigation of Health-Related Quality of Life, Anxiety and Satisfaction in Patients with Pulmonary Embolism

BACKGROUND

Features of post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety may be present in pulmonary embolism (PE) patients, along with impaired quality of life (QoL). We aim to evaluate health-related QoL, anxiety and satisfaction with life in patients with PE.

METHODS

Patients with PE were enrolled during their follow-up. All participants completed the Short Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) X1 and X2 forms, and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS).

RESULTS

92 PE patients were included (mean age ± SD = 62.50 ± 15.33 years, 56.5% males). The median values of the SF-36 subscales were below the corresponding values of the Greek general population (besides the mental health (MH) subscale). Mean STAIX1 levels were 37.05 ± 11.17 and mean STAIX2 levels were 39.80 ± 10.47. Mean SWLS levels were 23.31 ± 6.58. According to multiple linear regression analysis, the MH and general health subscales were predictive of SWLS levels (F (10.76) = 10.576, p < 0.001, R2 = 0.581). The MH score (β = -0.242, p < 0.01) and STAIX1 level (β = 0.312, p < 0.001) (F (9.77) = 26.445, p < 0.001, R2 = 0.756) were predictive of STAIX2.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with PE exhibit slight satisfaction with life, borderline anxiety and impaired HRQoL.

Diphtheria and Tetanus Immunity Status among Greek Adults: Results from a Nationwide Seroprevalence Study

Diphtheria and tetanus could lead to serious morbidity. We aimed to evaluate immunity levels by measuring specific IgG antibodies for diphtheria and tetanus in serum samples from a nationally expanded sample of the Greek population. A geographically stratified sampling approach based on regional units (NUTS level 2) was applied by considering variables such as age group (30-80+) and sex. In total, 1201 persons (47.7% males and 52.3% females) participated in the survey. Bivariate analysis revealed a negative relationship between diphtheria and tetanus median antibody titers and age. The overall seropositivity rate for diphtheria IgG antibodies (≥0.10 IU/mL) was estimated at 31.5%. Regarding tetanus, the total seropositivity rate was estimated at 59.5% (tetanus IgG antibodies ≥0.10 IU/mL). Logistic regression analysis indicated that age groups <40 years and 40-59 years were independently associated with tetanus seropositivity. Logistic regression also revealed that male sex and being aged 60-69 years were independent risk factors for diphtheria-related seropositivity. Lastly, being resident of some regions was an independent risk factor for both diphtheria- and tetanus-related seropositivity. The present study shows that Greek adults are still not completely immune to diphtheria and tetanus. It is likely possible to achieve optimal immunization coverage by implementing serviceable public health initiatives after comprehending real community needs.

Knowledge and beliefs of Greek parents towards HPV infection and vaccination - are they willing to vaccinate their sons?

OBJECTIVES

Human papillomavirus (HPV) stands as one of the prevalent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and serves as the primary factor behind nearly all instances of cervical cancer, along with various other non-cancerous conditions like genital warts. Our objective was to explore the knowledge and beliefs of Greek parents regarding HPV infection and the vaccination of boys against HPV.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study took place at a university hospital located in the Peloponnese region of Greece, from January to June 2021. The study employed convenience sampling as its methodology, and data gathering involved the distribution of self-administered questionnaires to parents who had at least one son between the ages of 9 and 18 years.

RESULTS

The final sample consisted of 120 individuals. 65.8 % of parents have been informed about HPV vaccination, knew that the HPV vaccine provides immunity against genital warts (50 %), and that minimum of two doses is necessary (46.7 %). 30.8 % intended to vaccinate their boys against HPV if the vaccine were available for males. The most important reasons for vaccination were the perception that both genders share equal responsibility in the prevention of sexually transmitted infections (91.7 %) and the protection against cancer (87.6 %), whereas the fear of adverse reactions and the adequate knowledge about HPV-related diseases were most reported as reasons of the intentions to not vaccinate their sons with 31.7 % and 25.8 % respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Although parents participating in the study know about HPV, however, there are significant lack of knowledge regarding HPV infection and the vaccine effects, which can significantly affect the acceptance of vaccination for boys.

Investigation of admission serum creatinine as a predictor of hospital length of stay in triple-vaccinated COVID-19 inpatients

BACKGROUND

This study assessed the association between admission kidney function and the duration of hospitalization in triple-vaccinated coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) inpatients during the omicron surge in Larissa, central Greece.

METHODS

Regression analysis was used to estimate the effect of kidney function biomarkers on hospital length of stay (LoS) within a dataset from a cohort of 51 subjects.

RESULTS

Sex- and age-adjusted admission serum creatinine was associated with hospital LoS (p=0.034).

CONCLUSIONS

Serum creatinine concentration on admission should be further evaluated as a possible clinical predictor of hospital LoS among triple-vaccinated COVID-19 inpatients both at the country and global level.

Proportion of Respiratory Syncytial Virus, SARS-CoV-2, Influenza A/B, and Adenovirus Cases via Rapid Tests in the Community during Winter 2023-A Cross Sectional Study

Respiratory infections constitute a major reason for infants and children seeking medical advice and visiting health facilities, thus remaining a significant public threat with high morbidity and mortality. The predominant viruses causing viral respiratory infections are influenza A and B viruses (Flu-A, Flu-B), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus and coronaviruses. We aimed to record the proportion of RSV, SARS-CoV-2, influenza A/B and adenovirus cases with rapid antigen tests and validate the results with RT-PCR assays of upper respiratory specimens with a wide range of viral loads and (co)-infection patterns in children. Clinical samples were collected from early symptomatic children (presenting with fever and/or cough and/or headache within 5-7 days). The surveillance program was conducted in five private pediatric dispensaries and one pediatric care unit, from 10 January 2023 to 30 March 2023 in central Greece. The total sample of specimens collected was 784 young children and infants, of which 383 (48.8%) were female and 401 were male (51.2%). The mean age of participants was 7.3 + 5.5 years. The sensitivity of the FLU A & B test was 91.15% (95% CI: 84.33-95.67%), and the specificity was 98.96% (95% CI: 97.86-99.58%). The sensitivity and specificity of the adenovirus and RSV test was {92.45% (95% CI: 81.79-97.91%), 99.32% (95% CI: 98.41-99.78%)} and {92.59% (95% CI: 75.71-99.09%), 99.47% (95% CI: 98.65-99.86%)} respectively. Lastly, the sensitivity of the SARS-CoV-2 test was 100.00% (95% CI: 79.41-100.00%) and the specificity was 99.74% (95% CI: 99.06-99.97%). We recorded a proportion of 14.3% and 3.44% for influenza A and B, respectively, followed by a proportion of 6.9% for adenovirus, a proportion of 3.7% for RSV, and finally, a proportion of 2.3% for SARS-CoV-2. The combination of a new multiple rapid test with multiple antigens will probably be a useful tool with a financial impact for health systems targeting the early detection and appropriate treatment of respiratory infections in emergency departments in primary health care facilities.

Attitudes and Practices Related to COVID-19 Vaccination with the Second Booster Dose among Members of Athens Medical Association: Results from a Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

There are limited data on the attitudes and acceptance of the second booster (fourth dose) of the COVID-19 vaccination among physicians.

METHODS

A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based, online study was conducted among members of the Athens Medical Association (A.M.A.) who were invited to participate anonymously over the period from January to March 2023.

RESULTS

From the 1224 members who participated in the survey, 53.9% did not receive the fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The main reasons for no vaccination were the lack of obligation to receive the fourth dose, the history of three doses of the COVID-19 vaccine and the lack of sufficient information about the effectiveness of the fourth dose. Over half of the three-dose-vaccinated participants were willing to receive the fourth dose in the near future. Interestingly, the vaccination coverage among participants who had been informed about the fourth dose through scientific sources was low.

CONCLUSIONS

The low vaccination coverage with the fourth dose reported in this study can lead to broad and serious consequences, such as increase in COVID-19 infections, reduction of available healthcare staff and increased caseloads of COVID-19 in hospitals. Furthermore, hesitant physicians will adversely influence the vaccination uptake among the general population due to their key role in informing and recommending the vaccine. The healthcare system administration should acknowledge and address physician's concerns through effective communication and better support.

Factors of Compliance of Dental Patients in Primary Health Care Services during the Pandemic

The compliance of dentists with good hygiene practices during the COVID-19 pandemic was essential to minimize the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 strains, and the pandemic has significantly interrupted the provision of oral health care to many individuals. We aimed to examine, in a cross-sectional study, factors affecting dental patients' compliance in primary dental health settings during the pandemic period. The present study was conducted on 300 dental patients visiting four private dental offices in the city of Larissa in Central Greece during the period October-December 2021. The patients in the study sample were of an average age of 45.79 years with a standard deviation of 15.54 years, and 58% of the sample were females. A significant proportion of the participants, 22%, reported that they would be influenced if they knew that the dentist had been ill with COVID-19 despite being fully recovered. A total of 88% of the participants reported that they would feel safe if they knew their dentist was vaccinated against COVID-19. Regarding the information received by dentists, 88% of the participants agreed that the dentist's role is important in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, and 89% of them agreed that the information they received from the dentist about the COVID-19 pandemic was sufficient. One-third of the total sample reported that COVID-19 negatively impacted keeping dental appointments, and 43% of the sample kept scheduled appointments. A total of 98% reported that the dentist followed all health protocols against COVID-19 and that their office was equipped to follow health protocols. In the present study, we observe that dentists had adequate knowledge of, attitudes towards, and practices of infection control protocols against COVID-19 during the second wave, according to patients' perceptions.

A Narrative Review of Q Fever in Europe

Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent of Q fever, causes abortions in animals. Its effects on humans and the management of Q fever in certain conditions like pregnancy are undetermined. The World Health Organization has estimated that zoonotic diseases cause around one billion cases of infections and millions of deaths globally each year. It is worth noting that many emerging infectious diseases currently being reported worldwide are zoonoses. We reviewed studies reporting on Q fever prevalence and incidence in Europe. Articles from 1937 to 2023 with the following terms "Coxiella burnetii and Europe and Q fever, and seroprevalence studies" were identified in the PubMed database and reports by organizations such as the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). We included randomized and observational studies, seroprevalence studies, case series, and case reports. According to the ECDC in 2019, 23 countries reported 1069 cases, the majority of which were classified as confirmed cases. The number of reports per 100,000 inhabitants in the EU/EEA was 0.2 for 2019, the same as the previous four years. The highest report rate (0.7 cases per 100,000 population) was observed in Spain, followed by Romania (0.6), Bulgaria (0.5), and Hungary. Considering the typically asymptomatic nature of Q fever infection, it is imperative to strengthen the existing systems to promote the rapid identification and reporting of Q fever outbreaks in animals, particularly in cases of abortion. It is also essential to consider the facilitation of early information exchange between veterinarians and public health counterparts to ensure the timely detection and prevention of potential zoonotic events, including Q fever.

Investigation of the Level of Burnout in Health Care Professionals in COVID-19 Pandemic Conditions

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to high levels of stress and anxiety for health care professionals. The purpose of this study was to investigate the burnout of health care professionals in COVID-19 pandemic conditions. Quantitative research was performed, and the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory was used to study burnout. The research sample consisted of 360 health care professionals. Health professionals have been found to have fairly high levels of personal burnout, work burnout, and burnout associated with patient interactions. It has also been found that women and health professionals working in department for patients with COVID-19 have significantly greater burnout. However, it was found that age, marital status, years of service, specialty, non-basic degree, and whether they or a first-degree relative had COVID-19 were not correlated to burnout. Given the very high level of burnout among health professionals, it is necessary to develop appropriate strategies to reduce burnout.

Changes in Smoking Habits in Greece During the Lockdown Measures Due to COVID-19

INTRODUCTION

During lockdown, people are experiencing higher than usual levels of stress related to social isolation, employment, and finances that may result in lifestyle changes. Here, we aim to assess whether smoking habits changed during the lockdown measures due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

METHODS

For the purpose of the survey, an online questionnaire was distributed from the tenth of April to the second of May 2020, among a Greek population, by using an online platform.

RESULTS

Two hundred smokers/vapers participated in the present survey (62.5% women, 44% of 36-45 years, 29% of 16-55 years, 15.5% 26-35 years). The daily number of cigarettes smoked before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic is 15.06 ± 9.84, while during the restrictive measures due to COVID-19, the daily number of cigarettes smoked is 14.52 ± 10.13 (p > 0.05). Vapers consumed an average of 0.54 ± 2.43 mL vapor per day before the COVID-19 pandemic and 0.61 ± 2.81 mL during lockdown. Males smoked more cigarettes per day before (16.31 ± 11.87) and during the lockdown (15.33 ± 12.17) versus females (14.30 ± 8.36) and 14.04 ± 8.70, respectively) (p > 0.05 for both genders). Before versus during the restrictive measures, subjects that were primary school graduates smoked more cigarettes per day (28.00 ± 9.09 and 27.50 ± 9.57, respectively), followed by subjects that were high school graduates (16.90 ± 9.33 and 15.97 ± 9.50, respectively), university graduates (14.17 ± 10.14 and 13.93 ± 10.66, respectively), postgraduates (12.96 ± 9.52 and 12.25 ± 9.90, respectively) and middle school graduates (12.89 ± 8.22 and 14.22 ± 7.93, respectively).The self-reported reason for the change in the mL vaporized and the cigarettes smoked are confinement at home (36.3%), stress about COVID-19 (34.09%), free time (20.45%), boredom (4.54%), stress about the work status (2.27%), and participation in online lucky games (2.27%).

DISCUSSION

We did not observe significant differences in the daily consumption of smoke/vaping during the lockdown measures. More studies are needed to assess the long-term effects of the pandemic in smoking habits.

The Validation of the COmprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity (COST) Scale in Greek Language

The aim of this study was to investigate the psychometric properties of the Greek version of FACIT-COST, as well as to assess the levels of financial distress of patients suffering from lung cancer in relation to their quality of life and lung cancer symptom burden. This was a cross-sectional quantitative study. A self-assessment instrument was used to gather the data. The study involved 120 lung cancer patients who were treated using chemotherapy in a day clinic of a General Hospital in Athens. Data were collected with the COST-FACIT-v2 (used to assess the patients' financial toxicity), The 12-item Health Survey (SF-12), and functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Lung Symptom Index Questionnaire-7 items-version 4 (FACIT-FACT-LCS). Descriptive statistics as well as exploratory factor analysis performed all the statistical analyses, which were conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics 25 and had p-values with a significance level of 0.05. The majority of the participants were male (68.3%), married or cohabitated (81.3%), and had been diagnosed with microcell cancer (90%). The factor analysis resulted in one factor that interpreted 35% of the total variance. FACT-L (r = 0.365, p < 0.001), physical component SF-12 (r = 0.184, p = 0.045), and mental health component SF-12 (r = 0.268, p = 0.003) were positively correlated to FACIT-OST, as expected. The Greek validated COST-FACIT-v2 is a reliable tool in providing rapid assessment of cancer patients' level of financial distress.

Guideline Daily Amounts Versus Nutri-Score Labeling: Perceptions of Greek Consumers About Front-of-Pack Label

Nutrition information is becoming more urgent than ever so that consumers can make informed choices when buying food. This study aimed to investigate consumers' perceptions and behavior of the front-of-pack label (FOPL), between two specific labeling systems, the Nutri-Score and the Guideline Daily Amounts (GDA). This is a post hoc analysis of data from a previous, more extensive cross-sectional study conducted from April 2021 to June 2021. A total of 510 participants were included in the study, of whom 49.6% were women. Participants' perceptions were assessed in nine questions on a five-point Likert scale (1=strongly disagree, 5=strongly agree). Multivariate variance analysis (MANOVA) was performed to test the effects of the label GDA vs. Nutri-Score on the overall positive and negative perceptions. We found that the Nutri-Score label was significantly more understandable (p=0.003), clear, visible, and preferable (p<0.001) than the GDA label, which required more time to be understood. The findings indicate that the interpretive label, Nutri-Score, was superior to the non-interpretive label GDA, in terms of consumers' perception, more visibility, less time-consuming, and reliability. The FOPL can improve the ability of consumers in Greece to understand the healthfulness of food products.

The Comparative Superiority of SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Response in Different Immunization Scenarios

Background: Both SARS-CoV-2 infection and/or vaccination result in the production of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. We aimed to compare the antibody titers against SARS-CoV-2 in different scenarios for antibody production. Methods: A surveillance program was conducted in the municipality of Deskati in January 2022. Antibody titers were obtained from 145 participants while parallel recording their infection and/or vaccination history. The SARS-CoV-2 IgG II Quant method (Architect, Abbott, IL, USA) was used for antibody testing. Results: Advanced age (>56 years old) was associated with higher antibody titers. No significant differences were detected in antibody titers among genders, BMI, smoking status, comorbidities, vaccine brands, and months after the last dose. Hospitalization length and re-infection were predictors of antibody titers. The individuals who were fully or partially vaccinated and were also double infected had the highest antibody levels (25,017 ± 1500 AU/mL), followed by people who were fully vaccinated (20,647 ± 500 AU/mL) or/partially (15,808 ± 1800 AU/mL) vaccinated and were infected once. People who were only vaccinated had lower levels of antibodies (9946 ± 300 AU/mL), while the lowest levels among all groups were found in individuals who had only been infected (1124 ± 200 AU/mL). Conclusions: Every hit (infection or vaccination) gives an additional boost to immunization status.

The Effect of Depressive and Insomnia Symptoms in Quality of Life among Community-Dwelling Older Adults

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of depressive symptoms, insomnia symptoms, and comorbid depressive and insomnia symptoms on the quality of life among community-dwelling older adults in an urban area of central Greece. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 older adults (aged ≥ 60) collected from five Open Care Centers for Elderly People of the Municipality of Larissa, Greece. Data were obtained through a questionnaire that included demographic, socioeconomic, and health-related characteristics; the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQoL)-Bref questionnaire; the Geriatric Depression Scale; and the Athens Insomnia Scale. The prevalences of depression, insomnia, and comorbid depression and insomnia were 28% (95% confidence interval (95% CI): 21.8-34.2%), 40.5% (95% CI: 33.7-47.3%), and 19% (95% CI: 13.5-24.5%), respectively. The mean WHOQoL-Bref score for all domains was approximately 14.50, with the highest mean value observed for psychological health (14.79 ± 2.60), followed by the physical health (14.49 ± 2.66), social relationships (14.39 ± 2.03), and environmental domains (14.32 ± 1.90). All WHOQoL-Bref domains were negatively correlated with depression and insomnia. Older adults with depressive symptoms, insomnia symptoms, and comorbid depressive and insomnia symptoms had lower scores in all quality of life dimensions compared with those without.

Assessment of Vaccination Status in Professional Football Players in Low Categories in Greece

BACKGROUND

There are limited data on the vaccination practices of footballers in low professional categories in Greece and Europe. The aim of this study was to investigate the vaccination practices followed by the medical staff of the low professional football categories in Central Greece.

METHODS

A questionnaire was developed and included questions on the vaccination practices of football players. The participants were chief medical officers of the fifteen low-category football teams in Central Greece. Overall, 10 out of 15 chief medical officers participated (response rate: 67%).

RESULTS

All participants recommended only the tetanus monovalent vaccine in cases with deep trauma of athletes. Influenza, pneumococcal vaccine, and Hepatitis A and B vaccines were not recommended by the medical officers. This was also the case for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine and meningococcal vaccine with strains A, C, Y, W. Participants reported the lack of specific guidelines for vaccination in professional footballers.

CONCLUSIONS

The recent study showed poor vaccination practices in low categories of professional football teams in Central Greece. The qualitative view of the respondents revealed the importance of the absence of guidelines on vaccination of football players.

Reported Injuries from Sharp Objects among Healthcare Workers in Central Greece

Sharp injuries (SIs) are incidents or accidents caused by a needle, blades (such as scalpels) or other medical instruments which penetrate the skin. They are among the major work-related injuries in healthcare professionals. The purpose of this study is to estimate SIs in healthcare workers (HCWs) in Central Greece. Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study through an online survey in healthcare facilities in Central Greece was conducted. Snowball sampling contributed to further dissemination of the survey among the target population. The modified version of the EPINet questionnaire was used with self-reported answers of the participants via electronic Google form. Results: Analysis of collected data indicated that 74.1% of the participants had at least one injury, with the highest number of injuries occurring in nursing staff at 65.1% and 62.3% of injuries recorded in the morning shift. With respect to the site of the injury, participants reported 33.1% of the injuries in the patient’s room, 11.8% in the nurse’s station, 9.6% in the Emergency Department (ED), 9.2% in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 8.4% in blood sampling, 8.4% in surgery, and only 7.8% in laboratories or other places. Additionally, hands were the most frequently affected body part (96%), while 69.6% of the workers did not report the injury and 53% of them did not apply the procedures and guidelines defined by the healthcare organization (employer). Relative factors to the injury are age, level of education, shifts, and possibly sex. Conclusions: SIs are the “Achilles heel” of health workers. The high incidence and low reporting rate of SIs highlights the need for specialized training and education. Age, work experience, and shift appear to significantly affect the incidence of injury.

Increased Influenza Vaccination Coverage among Members of the Athens Medical Association Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic

Healthcare workers are at high risk of influenza virus infection as well as of transmitting the infection to vulnerable patients who may be at high risk of severe illness. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the prevalence and related factors of influenza vaccination coverage (2020-2021flu season), among members of the Athens Medical Association in Greece. This survey employed secondary analysis data from a questionnaire-based dataset on COVID-19 vaccination coverage and associated factors from surveyed doctors, registered within the largest medical association in Greece. All members were invited to participate in the anonymous online questionnaire-based survey over the period of 25 February to 13 March 2021. Finally, 1993 physicians (60% males; 40% females) participated in the study. Influenza vaccination coverage was estimated at 76%. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that older age (OR = 1.02; 95% C.I. = 1.01-1.03), history of COVID-19 vaccination (OR = 2.71; 95% C.I. = 2.07-3.56) and perception that vaccines in general are safe (OR = 16.49; 95% C.I. = 4.51-60.25) were found to be independently associated factors with the likelihood of influenza vaccination coverage. Public health authorities should maximize efforts and undertake additional actions in order to increase the percentage of physicians/health care workers (HCWs) being immunized against influenza. The current COVID-19 pandemic offers an opportunity to focus on tailored initiatives and interventions aiming to improve the influenza vaccination coverage of HCWs in a spirit of synergy and cooperation.

Factors influencing the duration of hospitalization of patients with schizophrenia

Introduction

Severe mental disorders represent an important and large proportion of healthcare resource utilization and are associated with increased hospitalization rates and costs. Given the high percentage of total hospital days and costs associated with caring for people with psychotic disorders, a better understanding of the factors that determine the duration of hospitalization of patients with such disorders is imperative.

Purpose

The aim of the present study was to investigate socio-demographic, clinical and psychosocial characteristics of patients with schizophrenia, admitted to a Greek public psychiatric hospital, and the relationship between these characteristics and duration of hospitalization among these patients.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study. The study sample consisted of 103 patients diagnosed with schizophrenia (F-20). The collection of data was performed by using the NEO-Five Factor Inventory, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC25), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, (MSPSS), Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Global Assessment of Functioning scale (GAF) for assessing key personality factors, psychological resilience, social support, symptom severity and the severity of the disease, respectively. Descriptive analyses and inferential statistic methods were applied. Correlation between socio-demographic, psychosocial or clinical characteristics with the length of stay were explored. In addition, linear regression analysis was performed in order to examine predicting factors for the duration of hospitalization. All statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v.25.

Results

The mean age of the sample was 43.9 (SD = ±11.4) years, 67% of patients were men, and the mean length of hospitalization was 40.7 days. Factors found to be significantly associated with length of stay in the overall sample include the previous admissions (p=0.010), the type of admission (compulsory or voluntary) (p=0.017), bed rest (p=0.043) and duration of bed rest (p=0.002), and the existence of social support networks especially from friends (p=0.018).

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that basic psychosocial and clinical factors were associated with the duration of hospital stay. Duration of hospitalization results from a complex interface between characteristics and activities of the health system, patient, and clinician’s influence on discharge timing, which requires additional study. Our findings further warrant the need for policymakers to consider socio-demographic status, psychosocial and clinical factors when allocating resources to hospitals caring for patients with severe mental disorders.

Predictors of SARS-CoV-2 IgG Spike Antibody Responses on Admission and Clinical Outcomes of COVID-19 Disease in Fully Vaccinated Inpatients: The CoVax Study

Background: SARS-CoV-2 vaccines have shown high efficacy in protecting against COVID-19, although the determinants of vaccine effectiveness and breakthrough rates are yet to be determined. We aimed at investigating several factors affecting the SARS-CoV-2 IgG Spike (S) antibody responses on admission and clinical outcomes of COVID-19 disease in fully vaccinated, hospitalized patients. Methods: 102 subjects were enrolled in the study. Blood serum samples were collected from each patient upon admission for the semiquantitative determination of the SARS-CoV-2 IgG S levels with lateral flow assays. Factors influencing vaccine responses were documented. Results: 27 subjects had a negative antibody test upon hospital admission. Out of the 102 patients admitted to the hospital, 88 were discharged and 14 died. Both the absence of anti-S SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and poor clinical outcomes of COVID-19 disease were associated with older age, lower Ct values, and a shorter period between symptom onset and hospital admission. Ct values and time between symptom onset and hospitalization were independently associated with SARS-CoV-2 IgG S responses upon admission. The PaO2/FiO2 ratio was identified as an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality. Conclusions: Host- and disease-associated factors can predict SARS-CoV-2 IgG S responses and mortality in hospitalized patients with breakthrough SARS-CoV-2 Infection.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Primary Care Physicians towards COVID-19 in Greece: A Cross-Sectional Study

The aim of this study was to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of primary care physicians and residents towards the COVID-19 pandemic in Greece. A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted in Greece during March 2021. The population frame for the study was a list of currently practicing primary care physicians and residents who were registered within one of the main associations of general/family medicine in Greece. Hierarchical multiple logistic regression analysis was performed for practices at higher levels (vs. lower) in relation to knowledge, attitudes, and general characteristics of participants. Overall, 194 participants completed the survey (e-response rate: 38.4%). In total, 94% of participants were familiar with official recommendations regarding SARS-CoV-2, and 88.7% were vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2 or promptly intended to be. Physicians working in the private sector had a higher average practices score when compared to physicians working in the public sector (87.6 vs. 81.9, p < 0.05). Higher levels of attitudes predicted greater odds for higher levels of practices (odds ratio = 4.18, p < 0.05). Despite the relatively high COVID-19 vaccination rate of physicians, several participants were unvaccinated due to a then unscheduled first dose appointment. Attitudes were the only determinant for more proper practices towards the prevention of COVID-19.

Mortality and morbidity from infectious and non-communicable diseases in Greece during Axis/Nazi military occupation (1941-1944)

Greece has been severely damaged by the Second World War and the subsequent military occupation of the country by the Axis forces headed by Nazi Germany. The Greek society and economy were dislocated as a result of plundering of the country's vital resources, as well as enforced payments, instead paid to the occupying forces. The dramatic food shortages and famine appeared plaguing especially large cities. There is very limited information on the trends of mortality and morbidity (1941-1944) at a national level. The morbidity and mortality statistics of the General Statistical Service of Greece were assessed and the incidence morbidity and mortality rates have been calculated. As denominator population we used the population of Greece according to 1940 census. The morbidity due to exanthematic typhus, typhoid fever, dysentery and meningitis has been elevated over the period 1940-1944. An elevated specific mortality due to tuberculosis, malaria and typhoid fever was observed over the period 1940-1941. Regarding non-communicable diseases, the mortality due to hemorrhagic stroke was increased after 1940. In conclusion, we found that the Axis/Nazi military occupation of Greece had considerable health effects on infectious diseases and hemorrhagic stroke mortality. Deaths ostensibly due to infectious diseases (e.g. tuberculosis or malaria), were expedited by the hunger famine of the period under investigation. With regard to the elevated mortality due to hemorrhagic stroke, we believe that the stressful events of occupation and famine have triggered increased psychosocial stress which in turn may have increased the risk of hemorrhagic stroke mortality during the period of Axis/Nazi occupation of Greece.

Association of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccinations with SARS-CoV-2 Infections, ICU Admissions and Deaths in Greece

The available coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines have shown their effectiveness in clinical trials. We aimed to assess the real-world effects of SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations in Greece. We combined national data on vaccinations, SARS-CoV-2 cases, COVID-19-related ICU admissions and COVID-19-related deaths. We observed 3,367,673 vaccinations (30.68% of the Greek population), 278,821 SARS-CoV-2 infections and 7401 COVID-19-related deaths. The vaccination rate significantly increased from week 2 to week 6 by 85.70%, and from week 7 to 25 by 15.65%. The weekly mean of SARS-CoV-2 cases, COVID-19 ICU patients and COVID-19 deaths markedly declined as vaccination coverage accumulated. The rate of SARS-CoV-2 cases increased significantly from week 2 to week 13 by 16.15%, while from weeks 14–25 the rate decreased significantly by 13.50%. The rate of COVID-19-related ICU admissions decreased significantly by 7.41% from week 2 to week 4, increased significantly by 17.22% from weeks 5–11, then decreased significantly from weeks 17–20, by 11.99%, and from weeks 21–25, by 16.77%. The rate of COVID-19-related deaths increased significantly from week 2 to week 15 by 12.08% and decreased significantly by 16.58% from weeks 16–25. The data from this nationwide observational study underline the beneficial impact of the national vaccination campaign in Greece, which may offer control of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

Registry Systems for COVID-19 Vaccines and Rate of Acceptability for Vaccination Before and After Availability of Vaccines in 12 Countries: A Narrative Review

Registry systems play a key role in promoting vaccination campaigns in the general population. In the present narrative review, we provide data from 12 12 countries for vaccination acceptance before the availability of COVID-19 vaccines and vaccination coverage once it is available. We selected a randomized representative sample of 12 countries from WHO regions and 194 total members by the Open Epi Random Program. We observed the results with different levels of vaccine acceptability between the studies that were performed before the availability of a vaccine against COVID-19 and the vaccination coverage after the availability of the COVID-19 vaccine. All the registry systems that were developed for the recent pandemic achieved the initial functional goals. Twelve months after the vaccination campaign has begun, varying results were reported for vaccination coverage against COVID-19 vaccines with rates as high as 98% (subjects with at least one dose of vaccine) in the United Arabic Emirates, and as low as 24% in South Africa. The United Arabic Emirates stood as the leader of the world with the highest number of vaccinations 88% fully vaccinated citizens followed by Canada with 80% fully vaccinated citizens. The available data suggest that vaccine registry systems could help increase vaccination coverage and aim in the control of future outbreaks.

Defining Antibody Seroprevalence and Duration of Humoral Responses to SARS-CoV-2 Infection and/or Vaccination in a Greek Community

BACKGROUND

In this work, we aimed to evaluate antibody-response longevity to SARS-CoV-2 infection and/or vaccination in one of the Greek communities that was worst hit by the pandemic, Deskati, five months after a previous serosurveillance and nine months after the pandemic wave initiation (October 2020).

METHODS

The SARS-CoV-2 IgG II Quant method (Architect, Abbott, IL, USA) was used for antibody testing.

RESULTS

A total of 69 subjects, who previously tested positive or negative for COVID-19 antibodies, participated in the study. We found that 48% of participants turned positive due to vaccination. 27% of participants were both previously infected and vaccinated. However, all previously infected participants retained antibodies to the virus, irrespective of their vaccination status. The antibody titers were significantly higher in previously infected participants that had been vaccinated than those who were unvaccinated and in those that had been previously hospitalized for COVID-19 than those with mild disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection were maintained nine months after the pandemic. Vaccination alone had generated an immune response in almost half of the population. Higher antibody titers were found in the case of vaccination in previously infected subjects and especially in those with severe disease leading to hospitalization.

The effect of hospital ethical climate on nurses' work-related quality of life: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Hospital ethical climate (HEC) has been associated with nurses' interprofessional collaboration, moral decision-making and judgment, job satisfaction, and job burnout.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to examine the effect of hospitals' ethical climate on nurses' quality of working life.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study design was employed and 286 nurses from two hospitals in Athens participated in the study from January to February 2020. The data collected using a three-part self-administrated questionnaire were analyzed using the IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences 25 (SPSS).

RESULTS

According to the results, the staff nurses working on rotating shifts reported poorer Work-Related Quality of Life (WrQoL). Positive correlations were observed between age, control at work, and home-work interface, between the period of time the nurses were working in a specific department with the dimensions of the ethical climate scale, and between almost all the HEC aspects with WRQoL subscales. Only the domain of stress at work had fewer and less significant correlations.

CONCLUSIONS

Health authorities and hospital managers should provide the necessary ground for the institutionalization of professional ethics by creating an appropriate ethical climate. A positive ethical climate may lead to a better working environment with less distress for health professionals and better quality of care for the patients.

Breastfeeding Self-efficacy and Related Socio-demographic, Perinatal and Psychological Factors: a Cross-sectional Study Among Postpartum Greek Women

Background:

Studies have shown that breastfeeding self-efficacy constitutes a determinant used to forecast breastfeeding behaviours.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to examine the factors associated to breastfeeding self-efficacy and identify its predictors among Greek women in their immediate postpartum period.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted at the General Hospital of Volos, Greece. A convenience sample of 120 postpartum women who gave birth at the hospital and met all the inclusion criteria were invited to participate; 100 responded. Questionnaires on socio-demographic, perinatal and breastfeeding-related characteristics, the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, and the Breastfeeding Self-Efficiency Scale were completed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed with the use of the linear regression model.

Results:

Women reported a rather good level of breastfeeding self-efficacy (mean = 3.65; SD = 0.85) in the early postpartum period. 52% of women carried out exclusive breastfeeding in the hospital. The prevalence of postnatal depression was 25%. The best-fit regression analysis revealed four predictors (timing of the mother’s decision to breastfeed, infant’s feeding pattern, previous breastfeeding experience, levels of postnatal depression) explaining 44.7% of the variance in breastfeeding self-efficacy.

Conclusion:

Acknowledging the determinants which affect breastfeeding self-efficacy of women in the immediate postpartum period is a necessary condition in designing targeted intervention services.

Reported COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage and Associated Factors among Members of Athens Medical Association: Results from a Cross-Sectional Study

There are limited data on the prevalence and determinants of COVID-19 vaccination coverage among physicians. A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based, online study was conducted among the members of the Athens Medical Association (I.S.A.) over the period 25 February to 13 March 2021. All members of I.S.A. were invited to participate in the anonymous online survey. A structured, anonymous questionnaire was used. Overall, 1993 physicians participated in the survey. The reported vaccination coverage was 85.3%. The main reasons of no vaccination were pending vaccination appointment followed by safety concerns. Participants being informed about the COVID-19 vaccines by social media resulted in lower COVID-19 vaccination coverage than health workers being informed by other sources. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that no fear over COVID-19 vaccination-related side effects, history of influenza vaccination for flu season 2020–2021, and the perception that the information on COVID-19 vaccination from the national public health authorities is reliable, were independent factors of reported COVID-19 vaccination coverage. Our results demonstrate a considerable improvement of the COVID-19 vaccination uptake among Greek physicians. The finding that participants reported high reliability of the information related to COVID-19 vaccination provided by the Greek public health authorities is an opportunity which should be broadly exploited by policymakers in order to combat vaccination hesitancy, and further improve COVID-19 vaccination uptake and coverage among physicians/HCWs, and the general population.

Quality of Life and Psychological Distress of Lung Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy

Background

Patients with lung cancer often experience multiple symptoms associated with both the disease itself and the treatment. The disease and therapy-related adverse effects may lead to poor quality of life (QoL) and increased psychological distress. The aim of this study was to investigate the QoL and psychological distress of patients with lung cancer. The relationship between these two aspects was also an area of focus.

Methods

This was a quantitative descriptive study. Data collection was done using a self-complementary tool. The data were collected between February and March 2020. The sample consisted of 135 patients with lung cancer who were undergoing chemotherapy in 1-day clinic in Athens (a sample of convenience).

Results

Regarding the QoL of our sample, we observed that the mean score of the physical health component of SF-12 was 38.17 ± 9.94 and of the mental health component was 45.63 ± 11.80. As regards the psychological distress of our sample, we observed that the mean score for depression was 4.55 ± 5.04, for anxiety was 3.84 ± 4.17 and for stress was 5.21 ± 5.01.

Conclusion

As is clear from the results, lung cancer patients reported poor QoL and increased rates of psychological distress.

Psychosocial characteristics influence the duration of hospitalization in patients with psychotic disorders

Introduction

Schizophrenia spectrum disorders are related with prolonged stay in hospital and high cost for treating them. As a consequence, the determination of the factors that affect the duration of hospitalization is essential.

Objectives

The purpose of the study is the determination of the psychosocial characteristics of inpatients in a public psychiatric hospital and their association with the duration of hospitalization.

Methods

A total of 103 patients with a diagnosis of Schizophrenia (according to ICD-10) participated in the study. The socio demographic characteristics were recorded and the following psychometric tools were used: NEO- Five Factor Inventory, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC25), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Global Assessment of Functioning scale (GAF).All instruments were adapted to greek population. All statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v.25.

Results

The median length of hospital stay was 40,7 days. The number of previous admissions (p=0,010), the type of admission (compulsory or voluntary) (p=0,017), the physical restrain (p=0,043), the duration of restrain (p=0,002) as well as the existence of social support networks and in particular social support from friends (p=0,018), seem to affect the duration of hospitalization.

Conclusions

The present study underlines the signification of the psychosocial factors that could contribute to the prediction of longer hospitals stays, the planning of appropriate interventions and as a result the reduction of hospital costs.

Multimorbidity, Trauma Exposure, and Frailty of Older Adults in the Community

The aim of this study is to investigate the relation between multimorbidity, traumatic events and frailty among older adults in the community. The studied population consisted of 257 older people who were recipients of the services and active members of Open Care Centers for the Elderly (OCCE) of the Municipality of Grevena and meet a set of selection criteria. The collection of the data was carried out using a fully structured questionnaire, which consisted of two sections: a form of individual features and the Tilburg Frailty Indicator (TFI). The sample consisted of 114 men (44.4%) and 143 women (55.6%) aged between 61 and 96 years with an average of 75.12 years. The results showed that the mean scores were 2.70 for the Physical Frailty (standard deviation = 2.16), 1.43 for the Psychological Frailty (standard deviation = 1.21), 1.32 for the Social Frailty (standard deviation = 0.64) and 5.44 for the total Frailty (standard deviation = 3.02). We took into account the cut-off point five of 54.1% (n = 139) in terms of the participants' frailty. Physical, Psychological, and Total Frailty are related to (a) the presence of two or more chronic diseases or disorders, (b) the experience of a serious illness in the previous year, and (c) the experience of a serious illness of a loved one during the previous year. The outcomes helped to identify frailty syndrome in older people and the factors associated with it.

Predictors of Depression and Insomnia in Community-Dwelling Elderly People: A Cross-Sectional Evidence of Their Bidirectional Relationship

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine associated factors of depression and insomnia in community-dwelling elderly people in order to identify independent predictors.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 older people aged 60 years and over living in an urban area. A stratified random sampling method was used for recruiting samples from five Open Care Centers for Elderly People of the Municipality of Larissa, Greece. Data were obtained through a questionnaire that included demographic, socioeconomic, and health-related characteristics, 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15), and Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS). Simple and multiple logistic regression analysis was performed.

Results

The prevalence of depression and insomnia was 28.4% (95% CI: 22.9-33.9) and 39.2% (95% CI: 33.0-45.4), respectively. Our findings showed that the overall GDS-15 score was positively related to the overall AIS score (r = 0.405; p < 0.001). The best-fit regression analysis demonstrated four significant predictors (marital status, monthly income, body weight status, and insomnia) explaining 31.6% of the variance in depression risk. Moreover, community-dwelling elderly Greek people with insomnia symptoms were females, had a lower monthly income, and more likely to suffer from chronic diseases and depression.

Conclusion

These findings point to the importance of recognizing risk factors for both depression and insomnia in attempting to apply preventive interventions in the elderly and optimize their quality of life.

Did Economic Crisis Affect Mortality Due to Infectious Diseases? Trends of Infectious Diseases Mortality in Greece Before and After Economic Crisis

Introduction

Economic crisis and the restrictive policies applied in Greece and other countries raise questions about whether financial crises may affect the declining trend of infectious diseases. The aim of this study is to explore the impact of the economic crisis on mortality due to infectious diseases in Greece and its possible correlation with socio-economic variables affected by the crisis. 

Methods

Data including all deaths due to infectious diseases in Greece during 2001-2016 were analyzed. Annual total and cause-specific standardized death rates (SDR) and age-specific mortality rates were calculated. Cumulative SDRs and standardized rate ratios of the exposed and the non-exposed to austerity periods were computed. The correlation of mortality with Gross Domestic Product (GDP), unemployment, long-term unemployment and hospital expenditure was explored.

Results

During the exposed-to-austerity period, the SDR of infectious diseases recorded a significant increase by 5% (2.4%-7.7%), exhibiting different trends in the various groups of diseases. The cause-specific SDR increased significantly in intestinal infections, viral diseases, pneumonia, and influenza, and declined in tuberculosis and meningitis. Overall mortality was positively correlated with GDP and unemployment, and adversely with hospital expenditure.

Conclusions

The mortality of infectious disease was adversely affected by economic crisis and austerity, but the effects were found disease-dependent, with significant differences between the various groups of infectious disease. Unemployment and hospital expenditure were the main socio-economic determinants of mortality. Causal mechanisms of the impact remain unclear, requiring further research.

Acceptability of COVID-19 Vaccination among Greek Health Professionals

Health Care Workers are at the front line of the fight against Covid-19. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acceptability of vaccination against COVID-19 among health professionals (physicians, dentists, pharmacists) two weeks prior to the start of the Greek vaccination campaign against COVID-19. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted over the period 15-22 December 2020 in 340 health professionals in Central Greece. We found a high level of acceptance for COVID-19 vaccine (78.5%) and a high vaccination coverage for the influenza vaccine (74%). Age > 45 years (OR = 2.01; 95% C.I. = 2.01-4.3), absence of fear over vaccine safety (OR = 4.09; 95% C.I. = 1.36-12.3), and information received from the Greek public health authorities (OR = 11.14; 95% C.I. = 5.48-22.6), were factors independently associated with the likelihood of COVID-19 vaccination acceptance. Our study indicates a high level of the COVID-19 vaccination acceptance among physicians, dentists and pharmacists. Nevertheless, several interventions can be implemented to increase acceptance of vaccine among health-care workers (HCWs) and could be especially directed at younger and vaccine-hesitant health care workers due to fear of vaccine side-effects. Last, our results provide some evidence that receiving vaccine-related information from the Greek Center for Diseases Control (E.O.D.Y.) could reduce the drivers of hesitancy and enhance the acceptability of COVID-19 vaccination.

Assessment of psychological distress in end stage renal disease: is it spirituality related?

Introduction

Patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) are faced with bearing this burden and report poor mental health. Spirituality can be a key factor in managing these problems among HD patients.

Aim

This cross-sectional study aimed at exploring possible factors that are associated with psychological distress among HD patients and testing its relation to spirituality.

Methods

HD patients were recruited from six dialysis units in Greece. Psychological distress was assessed using the scale Symptom Check List 90-R and spirituality using the Facit Sp-12 questionnaire. In addition, a special design questionnaire regarding demographic, social, and clinical characteristic was administrated.

Results

According to the results, factors such age, gender, marital status and area of residence are associated with psychological distress, while dimensions of spirituality such Meaning in Life and Peace can have a positive influence on psychological distress.

Conclusion

This study highlights the vital role of spirituality, which can act as a mechanism for managing stressful situations. In particular, this study highlights the positive effect of the meaning and purpose of life, as well as the role of peace and harmony.

Repeated Antigen-Based Rapid Diagnostic Testing for Estimating the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Prevalence from the Perspective of the Workers' Vulnerability before and during the Lockdown

BACKGROUND

No previous study has investigated the SARS-CoV-2 prevalence and the changes in the proportion of positive results due to lockdown measures from the angle of workers' vulnerability to coronavirus in Greece. Two community-based programs were implemented to evaluate the SARS-CoV-2 prevalence and investigate if the prevalence changes were significant across various occupations before and one month after lockdown.

METHODS

Following consent, sociodemographic, clinical, and job-related information were recorded. The VivaDiag™ SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Rapid Test was used. Positive results confirmed by a real-time Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction for SARS-COV-2.

RESULTS

Positive participants were more likely to work in the catering/food sector than negative participants before the lockdown. Lockdown restrictions halved the new cases. No significant differences in the likelihood of being SARS-CoV-2 positive for different job categories were detected during lockdown. The presence of respiratory symptoms was an independent predictor for rapid antigen test positivity; however, one-third of newly diagnosed patients were asymptomatic at both time points.

CONCLUSIONS

The catering/food sector was the most vulnerable to COVID-19 at the pre-lockdown evaluation. We highlight the crucial role of community-based screening with rapid antigen testing to evaluate the potential modes of community transmission and the impact of infection control strategies.

Calprotectin in Lung Diseases

Calprotectin (CLP) is a heterodimer formed by two S-100 calcium-binding cytosolic proteins, S100A8 and S100A9. It is a multifunctional protein expressed mainly by neutrophils and released extracellularly by activated or damaged cells mediating a broad range of physiological and pathological responses. It has been more than 20 years since the implication of S100A8/A9 in the inflammatory process was shown; however, the evaluation of its role in the pathogenesis of respiratory diseases or its usefulness as a biomarker for the appropriate diagnosis and prognosis of lung diseases have only gained attention in recent years. This review aimed to provide current knowledge regarding the potential role of CLP in the pathophysiology of lung diseases and describe how this knowledge is, up until now, translated into daily clinical practice. CLP is involved in numerous cellular processes in lung health and disease. In addition to its anti-microbial functions, CLP also serves as a molecule with pro- and anti-tumor properties related to cell survival and growth, angiogenesis, DNA damage response, and the remodeling of the extracellular matrix. The findings of this review potentially introduce CLP in daily clinical practice within the spectrum of respiratory diseases.

Frailty and Quality of Life Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Older people often feel weak and have limited physical activity and walking capacity, without energy. These characteristics meet the conditions for the onset of the frailty syndrome. The effect that frailty syndrome can have on the elderly’s quality of life (QOL) status has not been sufficiently explored, especially in the Greek population. This study aims to investigate the correlation between frailty and QOL in a community population of elderly people with independent living. A descriptive cross-sectional study was performed. The study sample consisted of 257 elderly people from three Open Care Centers for the Elderly Population of the Municipality of Grevena, Greece. The Tilburg Frailty Indicator was used to measure frailty in elderly people and the World Health Organization QOL-BREF was used to assess the health-related QOL of older people. The majority of elderly people showed relatively low overall frailty score (mean: 5.44). The elderly people had relatively high QoL assessment values and general satisfaction with their health condition. The obtained results show a statistically significant negative relationship between (i) physical frailty, psychological frailty, and all dimensions of QOL, (ii) social frailty and social relationships, and (iii) total frailty and all dimensions of QOL. Consequently, despite an average age of 75.12 years and higher female participation, the study population was not very frail and were satisfied with their QOL. Frailty has a negative effect in all QOL domains.

The Effect of Spirituality on Mental Health Among Hypertensive Elderly People: A Cross-sectional Community-based Study

Introduction:

Elderly suffering from hypertension may also experience other psychological disorders in their daily life, such as depression and anxiety. Moreover, they use spiritual practices to relieve symptoms or comorbidities of hypertension. All these practices produce a calming effect on them.

Aim:

This study aims at investigating the relation between spirituality and mental health among older adults with hypertension and their sociodemographic characteristics.

Methods:

A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in Greece. A questionnaire consisting of the sociodemographic characteristics, the FACIT-Sp-12 scale and the General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was completed by a total of 134 hypertensive elderly (≥65 years of age) persons. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used.

Results:

The sample consisted of 42,5% males and 57,5% females, aged 65 to 95 years, with a mean age of 78,38 years (SD= 6,68). A statistically significant correlation was found between FACIT-Sp-12 total score and the “physical discomfort (r=-0,562 p<0.001), “anxiety” (r=-0,735 p<0.001), “social disfunctioning” (r=-0,650 p<0.001), “depression” (r=-0,735 p<0.001) and the total score of GHQ-28 (r=-0,735 p<0.001). Specifically, the higher the total score of spirituality among older hypertensive adults the lower the rates of psychosomatic disorders and the total burden of mental health (and vice versa).

Conclusion:

Results showed that younger elderly, living in urban areas and not experiencing any other chronic health conditions, have higher levels of spirituality compared to older. Also, a negative correlation was found between spirituality and mental health.

Burnout and associated factors among Greek substance use disorder treatment providers during economic crisis

Crisis and austerity in Greece could have influenced the risk of burnout among substance use disorder treatment providers. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of burnout and its associated factors among Greek substance use disorder treatment providers during economic crisis. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2016. In particular, employees at the substance use treatment program of Athens (n = 180), a branch of the Greek Organization against Drugs were invited to participate. Almost all participants reported medical supplies shortages related to the economic crisis. Increasing job demands, staff reduction and limited job autonomy were independent risk factors for burnout. These factors are crisis-related. In conclusion, we found high rates of burnout among substance abuse treatment personnel in Greece. These respondents are a bellwether of the effects of economic crisis. Economic crisis can produce a profound negative effect on health care.

Vaccination practices and influenza in professional football players in Greece

BACKGROUND

There is limited data on vaccination practices for professional footballers globally.

AIMS

To record vaccination practices employed by medical staff of individual football teams of the Super League Greece, and absenteeism of footballers related to influenza illness.

METHODS

A brief questionnaire was distributed to chief medical officers (CMOs) of the sixteen teams of the Super League Greece. Participants were asked to report vaccines they recommended for footballers. In addition, the questionnaire included questions on new cases of influenza and absenteeism due to influenza. Descriptive statistics (absolute and relative frequencies) were used for the presentation of the results.

RESULTS

Overall, 87% of the CMOs recommended seasonal influenza vaccine, 62% hepatitis B vaccine and 50% pneumococcal vaccine. Fourteen CMOs (87%) reported that the occurrence of seasonal influenza in the 2016-17 northern hemisphere season ranged from one to five cases, while two medical officers (12%) reported zero workdays lost due to influenza.

CONCLUSIONS

Our survey shows considerable variation in vaccination practices of CMOs of the Super League Greece. The results of this survey should stimulate further evaluation of vaccination policy and influenza-related absenteeism in footballers.

Factors Associated with Psychological Distress in University Students and the Relation to Emotional Intelligent and Spirituality: a Cross-sectional Study

Introduction:

Psychological health is the expression of harmonic expression of human’s personality and is often disrupted by multiple factors. Especially during academic years, human has to confront various stressful situations that endanger his Psychological health. Enhanced levels of Emotional Intelligence and Spirituality may act protectively enhancing his ability to manipulate his emotions and his existential anxieties.

Aim:

The present study aims to assess psychological distress in university students and test if emotional intelligence and spirituality are related.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study design was employed. The sample comprised 206 students attending in different Departments of the University of Thessaly.

Results:

From the total of 206 students the majority were women (n=157, 76,2%) while 23,8% were men. Regarding the mean of age of the participants was found to be 30.1 ±7.15 with a minimum 18 and maximum at 44 years. Factors such as gender, living arrangement and financial frustration can affect psychological distress. The results indicated, a positive link was found among Emotional Intelligence and various factors of Spirituality and Psychological health.

Conclusions:

The contribution of Emotional Intelligence and Spirituality is crucial to the acquisition of well-being, happiness and meaning in life.

Depression, anxiety and stress among patients with hematological malignancies and the association with quality of life: a cross-sectional study

AIM

To evaluate psychological distress and quality of life of patients with hematological malignancies, as well as to identify the prognostic factors that aggravate their condition.

METHODS

A cross-sectional, descriptive study including 87 patients with Hematological Malignancies was conducted. Data were collected with an anonymous questionnaire consisted by A) a sheet with socio-demographic characteristics, B) the Depression, Stress and Stress Scale (DASS21), and C) World Health Organization Life Quality Scale (WHOQOL - BREF30). The processing and statistical analysis of the empirical material of the research were done using the SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Science) 22.0.

RESULTS

The results showed that the age of the sample averaged 71.22 years (SD = 8.71). Regarding their marital status, single mothers were 9.2%, married 62.1%. With regard to disease-related features, 28.7% of patients had Hodgkin's Lymphoma, 27.6% Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia, 27.6% MDL and 16.1% of patients had myelodysplastic syndrome Multiple myeloma. In the investigation of the relationship between the Mental health Scale and the Quality of Life, negative correlations of Depression, Stress, Stress and the total DAS Scale with all dimensions of Patient Quality of Life were found.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher levels of psychological distress and poor mental health are associated with a low level of quality of life.