Medicolegal assessment of human trafficking victims. Descriptive study of a series of forensic cases in Catalonia (Spain)

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Human trafficking or contemporary slavery is the recruitment and transfer of people by force or deception for sexual, labour or other types of exploitation. Although the violence, abuse and deprivation that trafficking entails are a threat to the health of its victims, in Spain the clinical or forensic data available in this regard is scarce. At the Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences of Catalonia (IMLCFC), a unit specialized in the forensic assessment of these victims was created. The objective of this work was to describe a series of forensic cases of trafficking victims.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Retrospective study of victims in judicial cases opened for an alleged crime of human trafficking registered in the IMLCFC until 06/30/2023.

RESULTS

57 different victims were registered. The majority were women (71.9%). The average age was 30.5 years (s.d. 10.31). All the victims were foreigners, mostly from Latin America (45.5%). The exploitation was mainly sexual (61.4%). There were some sociodemographic differences and in the conditions and consequences of trafficking between victims of sexual exploitation and the rest. Mental health problems were very common in all victims at the time of the assessment (87.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

The consequences of trafficking on health, especially mental health, are notable and the forensic assessment of victims is valuable in judicial proceedings. It is necessary to deepen our knowledge of the phenomenon in our environment.

Sex differences in delay times in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: A cohort study

BACKGROUND

The present study analyzes a cohort of consecutive patients with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI), evaluating the ischemia-reperfusion times from the perspective of gender differences (females versus males), with a long-term follow-up.

METHODS

Single-center analytical cohort study of patients with STEMI in a tertiary hospital, between January 2015 and December 2020.

RESULTS

A total of 2668 patients were included, 2002 (75%) men and 666 (25%) women. The time elapsed from the onset of symptoms to the opening of the artery was 197min (IQR 140-300) vs 220min (IQR 152-340), p=0.004 in men and women respectively. A delay in health care significantly impacts the occurrence of cardiovascular adverse events at follow-up, HR 1.34 [95%CI 1.06-1.70]; p=0.015.

CONCLUSIONS

Women took longer to go to health care services and had a longer delay both in the diagnosis of STEMI and in coronary reperfusion. It is imperative to emphasize the necessity of educating women about the recognition of ischemic heart disease symptoms, empowering them to raise early alarms and seek timely medical attention.

The relationship between infertility and sleep quality in women: Systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

This systematic review and meta-analysis study aimed to examine the relationship between infertility and sleep quality in women.

METHODS

The literature search was conducted between October and November 2022 with full-text studies from PubMed (MEDLINE), Cochrane, Google Scholar, and Scientific Information Database (SID). The study is based on the recommendations of the Cochrane guidelines. The data were analyzed using the Review Manager computer software (Version 5.3).

RESULTS

A systematic literature review was conducted, with 11 studies included. The meta-analysis revealed a significant difference between infertility and sleep quality in women, that the sleep quality of infertile patients decreased (SMD: -0.75 95% CI: -0.84 to -0.66, Z = 16.46, P < .00001), and that there was a significant difference between infertility and depression (SMD: -0.18 95% CI: -0.27 to -0.09, Z = 4.00, P < .0001).

CONCLUSION

The results of this study indicate that sleep quality is low in infertile women. PROSPERO ID: (CRD42023404389).

Women in Radiology: A perspective from Spain

INTRODUCTION

There are gender inequalities in all fields, including radiology. Although the situation is improving, the presence of radiologists in leadership positions continues to be a minority. The objective of this article is to analyse the situation of women in the spanish radiology, comparing it with Europe and the United States.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We selected the years 2000-2022 as reference period to make a comparison with feminization data throughout history. In addition, relevant specific data from the just begun 2023 were also included. The variables in which we investigated feminization were the following: medical students, medical graduates, radiology residents and specialists, section chiefs, department chairs, radiology residency programme directors, radiology university professors, presidents of the main radiological entities and societies in Spain, Europe and the United States, recipients of the main awards given by these radiological societies and chief editors of their journals. In order to perform this analysis we conducted an in-depth bibliographic research, we contacted the radiological societies of Spain, Europe and the USA and we carried out a survey in the main Spanish radiology departments.

RESULTS

The female presence in radiology decreases as we rise to leadership positions, a situation that is patent in Spain, Europe and the US, comparison that will be analysed in depth throughout the article. In Spanish hospitals in 2021 there were 58.1% female radiology residents, 55% female radiologists, 42.9% female section chiefs and 24.4% female department chairs. In SERAM's history there have been 10% female presidents, 22% female gold medallists and 5% female editors-in-chief. If we analyse data from 2000 to 2023, female presidents reach 32% and female gold medallists 31%.

CONCLUSIONS

Although gender inequality is declining, in radiology women continue to be underrepresented in leadership positions. Work must be done in order to build a diverse and inclusive profession that reflects demographic reality.

The effect of telehealth on incontinence severity given to women with urinary incontinence: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

INTRODUCTION

Although urinary incontinence does not cause mortality, it is a global health problem that adversely affects the quality of life and health of women.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the studies investigating the effect of telehealth given to women with urinary incontinence (UI) on the severity of incontinence.

METHODS

The literature review for this systematic review was conducted between August-Semptember 2023 using four electronic databases. Y-based articles were scanned using MeSH-based keywords. Randomized Controlled Trials conducted over the last decade were included in the screening.

RESULTS

The analysis included six studies involving 826 women with UI. After telehealth intervention, there was a significant difference in UI symptom severity (MD: -2.14 95% CI: -2.67 to -1.62, Z=8.03, p<0.00001) and quality of life (SMD: -2.14 95% CI: -2.67 to -1.62, Z=8.03, p<0.00001) compared to the control groups. It had no effect on sexuality (MD: -4.65 95% CI: -9.60 to 0.30, Z=1.84, p=0.07), and anxiety (SMD: -0.15, 95% CI: -0.38 to 0.08, Z=1.27, p=0.21).

CONCLUSION

In this analysis, it was found that telehealth interventions performed on women with UI increased the quality of life while reducing the severity of incontinence in women, but had no effect on sexuality, and anxiety.

[Barriers and proposals for a health care approach to trafficking for sexual exploitation]

OBJECTIVE

To examine the perception of the trafficking in women for sexual exploitation, identify the difficulties and collect the proposals of professionals in direct contact with the victims of trafficking in women for sexual exploitation in Andalusia (Spain).

METHOD

Qualitative study based on interviews with 10 key informants, selected from organizations providing support and care to victims of trafficking in women for sexual exploitation in 2021. Two researchers carried out a thematic categorical content analysis, integrative and relational analysis. Three themes with different sub-themes were analyzed.

RESULTS

Difficulties have been identified in relation to women (delay in recognizing themselves as victims, cultural differences, distrust of the system), traffickers (modification of strategies), health professionals (lack of sensitivity and lack of homogeneity in actions) and the health system (lack of cultural intermediation, administrative complexity). The key informants propose more training for professionals, the use of effective action protocols and better coordination between institutions.

CONCLUSIONS

The health sector faces a number of challenges in responding comprehensively and effectively to trafficking in women for sexual exploitation. Improvements are needed in raising awareness among health professionals, the development of standardized protocols, greater collaboration between sectors, the provision of specialized mental health services and effective cultural mediation.

Does gender influence retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) outcomes? Data from the Flexible Ureteroscopy Outcomes Registry (FLEXOR)

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

As well established flexible ureteroscopy (RIRS). There is still no evidence if gender can have any influence on the outcomes and complication when performing. This study aims to evaluate the role that gender has in performing flexible ureteroscopy from a large series of patients.

METHODS

This study retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent RIRS for renal stones from January 2018 to August 2021 within the multicentric FLEXOR registry. Demographics, stone characteristics, perioperative findings, results and complications were analyzed and compared between gender groups.

RESULTS

A total of 6669 patients were included, 66.1% were male and 33.9% were female. Stone characteristics was comparable between groups. Female patients had significant higher fever and positive urine culture rates (12% vs. 8% and 37% vs. 34%). Also, females had a slight longer hospital stay (3.8 vs. 3.5 days; P < 0.001) and more residual fragments after the procedure (23.03% vs. 20.97 (P = 0.032). Overall complications were slightly significantly higher in women (15.74% vs. 14% (P = 0.042)) mainly at the expense of fever rates (6.9% vs. 5.7%) whereas the risk of sepsis was similar in both groups. A multivariate analysis showed that larger stone size, multiple and lower pole stones seem to have a negative impact in the incidence of residual stones and complications.

CONCLUSION

Our real life global study reflects that female gender may have a correlation with a slightly increased residual fragment rate and overall low grade complications. However, women can safely be treated with RIRS with no increased the rate of sepsis with appropriate care.

[Interobserver agreement in the diagnosis of bladder outlet obstruction in women]

Background

The diagnosis of bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) in women is a challenge for functional urology. In Mexico there are few data that report the prevalence of OTSV in women, being up to 24% in a group of patients.

Objective

The aim of this study is to compare six different definitions of bladder outlet obstruction and evaluate the interobserver agreement in an educational setting.

Material and Methods

Urodynamic studies (UDS) of women with and without diagnosis of BOO were retrospectively assesed. Farrar, Chassagne, Lemack, Defreitas, Blavais and Groutz, Solomon-Greenwell definitions were evaluated. All UDS were independently reviewed by 5 observers. The easiest, the hardest and the fastest were chosen. Interobserver agreement to classify the patients as obstructed was assessed by kappa reliability statistical analysis. We classified the type of mistakes the participants made; error of interpretation and miscalculation.

Results

A total of 28 urodynamic studies were reviewed. All observers had a substantial agreement (0.64-0.78) to classify BOO using all but Lemack and Solomon-Greenwell definitions. A total 120 errors from 840 responses were found; 45.8% errors of interpretation of UDS and 54.1% miscalculation of the equation. Finally, all the participants chose the Solomon-Greenwell was the most difficult definition.

Conclusion

Chassagne, Defreitas and Farrar definitions proved substantial interobserver agreement. Solomon-Greenwell and Lemack´s definitions had the highest number of pitfalls and the lowest level of agreement.

Women in urology: what is their current situation in Spain?

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the current state of women in urology in Spain.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Descriptive study based on the results of an online survey sent between February and April 2020 through the database of the Residents and Young Urologists group (RAEU) of the Spanish Association of Urology (AEU). Characteristics of the survey and its results were analyzed.

RESULTS

In total, 257 responses were obtained from 210 women (81.71%) and 47 men (18.29%) belonging to 111 hospitals. Statistically significant differences were observed (p < 0.001) with a higher proportion of men in all categories except for the group of young female and male attendings (29-39 years, p = 0.789), and the group of female residents against male residents (p = 0.814). The number of men was higher in hospitals with subspecialty units except for the Pelvic Floor Unit, where no statistically significant difference was observed (p = 0.06). Regarding positions of responsibility, only 7 out of 111 hospitals had female Department Chiefs.

CONCLUSIONS

Women's representation in urology is increasing, mainly due to the younger generations. However, the access of these women to relevant positions is anecdotal.

First evidence for the existence of Simkania negevensis in the genitalia of human females

INTRODUCTION

Simkania negevensis has been linked to some respiratory and non-respiratory diseases. However, there is still a serious lack of clinical investigations that attempt to determine possible body sites that could be inhabited by this microorganism and evaluate its true pathogenic capacity. The goal of this study was to examine the potential presence of Simkania and its prevalence in the genital tract of human adult females.

METHODS

Lower vaginal swabs from 169 Jordanian adult females who attended Obstetrics and Gynecology clinic were collected and tested for Simkania DNA by PCR method.

RESULTS

The presence of bacterial nucleic acids was confirmed in the genital system of adult females with an overall prevalence of 24.26% (41/169). Interestingly, the positivity of Simkania DNA was significantly higher in women of reproductive age than females of non-reproductive age (28.03% versus 10.81%; p≤0.05). Moreover, the presence of S. negevensis was evident in approximately 43% of females suffering from vaginal itching and/or abnormal discharge, exhibiting about two-fold increase in the positivity rate compared to detection rates assessed for women who attended the clinic for routine checkup or menstruation problems. However, the current work failed to find any link between the bacterial agent and spontaneous abortion (miscarriage).

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed for the first time the presence of S. negevensis in the genitalia of human females. These novel data could provide a basis to clarify the exact role of S. negevensis in the female genitalia and its potential involvement in genital system disorders.

[Cultural myths on the use of analgesia in labor: A cross-sectional study in Nigerian women]

OBJECTIVE

Pain is termed as a subjective phenomenon, however almost all women acknowledge that labor pain is the most severe form of pain a woman experiences in her lifetime. Obstetric analgesia is underutilized in developing countries due to cultural myths and taboos. Hence, the present study aims to identify Nigerian women's knowledge of labor analgesia and to explore what myths and factors hinder with the use of analgesia in labor.

METHOD

A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted in this study. The population of the study predominantly consisted of pregnant women from the «Yoruba ethnic group». An adapted semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain data from participants from selected Health Care Centers in Ekiti state, Nigeria. The collected data was analyzed using a descriptive and inferential statistics and was represented in form of tables and charts with level of significance set at p ≤ 0.05.

RESULTS

A total of 236 respondents were included in the study (n = 236). Findings from this study revealed that, the participants showed very poor knowledge on labor pain management strategies, with only 26.3% being aware of pain management strategies used in relieving labor pain. An elevated number of the participants (56.8%) believed that labor pain should not be relieved with the use of drugs, strongly agreeing that analgesia was «a sign ofweakness» (57.2%). Also, more than half (51.7%) of participants had fears that pain relief administered during labor can cause harm to the unborn baby. Belief that experiencing labor pain completes one's motherhood (49.6%), Religion (50.4%) and Culture (54.5%), were reported as factors influencing the uptake/acceptance of labor analgesia among participants. Furthermore statistical significant association was found between educational level of participants and knowledge of labor analgesia among participants (p value = 0.000; p ≤ 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Cultural myths on the use of analgesia exist among participants. It is suggested that women-centered education should be targeted toward eliminating these myths and increasing awareness about labor analgesia.

Lifestyle and cardiovascular mortality in menopausal women: a population-based cohort study

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

There are models for cardiovascular risk prediction in the general population, but the prediction of risk in postmenopausal women has not been specifically studied. This study aimed to determine the association of lifestyle habits and chronic diseases with cardiovascular risk in menopausal women, as well as to build a risk scale.

METHODS

Retrospective population-based cohort study using data from the 2011 National Health Survey of Spain as a data source, Women ≥ 50 years were included. The characteristics that best defined the life habits of the study women were collected, as well as their health status and self-reported medical history at the time of the survey. Follow-up data on all-cause mortality were obtained from participants from 2011 to 2017.

RESULTS

A total of 5953 women ≥ 50 years of age were included, with a mean age of 66.4 ± 11.4 years. The incidence of cardiovascular mortality in the follow-up period was 4%. Vegetable consumption less than 1 time/week (HR, 1.758), smoking (HR, 1.816) or excess hours of sleep (≥ 9h/day, HR, 1.809), or o have main daily activity sitting most of the time (HR, 2.757) were related to cardiovascular mortality. The predictive model presents an honest C-index in test sample of 0.8407 (95%CI, 0.8025-0.8789).

CONCLUSIONS

Life habits such as the consumption of vegetables, daily main activity, sleeping hours or smoking are risk factors for cardiovascular mortality of great relevance among menopausal women. A simple 6-year self-reported risk scale with high predictive capacity is provided.

Alcohol, age at first sexual intercourse and number of sexual partners in young Mexican women

AIM

To identify the relationship between use of alcohol, number of sexual partners and age of sexual initiation.

METHOD

Descriptive-correlational study. A random sample of 319 young women (age 18-25) from Nuevo Laredo, Mexico was recruited. A sociodemographic data sheet and the AUDIT questionnaire were used. Non-parametric Spearman's rank correlation coefficient and Kruskal-Wallis H test were selected.

RESULTS

On average the participants were 20.70 years old (±2.1), had 1.86 sexual partners (±1.27), started drinking alcohol at the age of 16.82 (±1.79), and their first sexual intercourse was at the age of 17.38 (±1.65). There was a decrease in the age of onset of alcohol use (H=16.646, p<.001) and the age at first sexual intercourse (H=26.749, p<.001) on the lower their current age. The overall AUDIT score negatively correlated with the age of the participants on their first sexual intercourse (r_s=-.168, p<.001) and positively correlated with the number of sexual partners (r_s=.243, p<.001). The aforementioned correlations were more intense among the younger participants (18- and 19-year olds; p<.01).

CONCLUSIONS

There was an association between higher use of alcohol, early age of sexual initiation and number of sexual partners. Nursing professionals may address such variables simultaneously through preventive strategies directed specifically at young women.

The prevalence of urinary incontinence in female CrossFit practitioners: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

CrossFit is a popular sportamong women. It has numerous benefits, but it is unclearwhat effects it has on the pelvic floor, since physicalexercise may be a risk factor for urinary incontinence.The aim of this study was to determine theoverall prevalence of urinary incontinence in femaleCrossFit practitioners. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysiswere conducted (PROSPERO, 2020: CRD42020199479).We searched cross-sectional studies in databases (Pub-Med, CINAHL, WOS, Scopus, ProQuest) and search engines,from inception to 17 June, 2020. The AdaptedNewcastle-Ottawa Scale for Cross-Sectional Studies wasused to assess the risk of bias. Pooled prevalence wascalculated using random-effects models. Heterogeneitywas investigated by meta-regression and subgroupanalysis.

RESULTS

A total of 282 records were identified, ofwhich 13 were included in the qualitative and quantitativesynthesises. The prevalence of urinary incontinenceamong female CrossFit practitioners was 32.1%(95% CI = 22.2-43.8%, n = 2187) and of stress urinaryincontinence was 35.8% (95% CI = 19.4-56.4%, n =1323). The prevalence of urinary incontinence was higher among women over 35 years old, with previouspregnancies and vaginal deliveries (P = 0.004). TheCrossFit exercises associated with higher stress urinaryincontinence were rope jumping, double under,weightlifting, and box jumps. Some preventive strategieswere pelvic floor training, using pads, emptyingthe bladder before workouts, and wearing dark pants. CONCLUSIONS: These results show that the prevalenceof urinary incontinence in female CrossFit practitionerswas similar to that found among women whopractice sport.

First evidence for the existence of Simkania negevensis in the genitalia of human females

INTRODUCTION

Simkania negevensis has been linked to some respiratory and non-respiratory diseases. However, there is still a serious lack of clinical investigations that attempt to determine possible body sites that could be inhabited by this microorganism and evaluate its true pathogenic capacity. The goal of this study was to examine the potential presence of Simkania and its prevalence in the genital tract of human adult females.

METHODS

Lower vaginal swabs from 169 Jordanian adult females who attended Obstetrics and Gynecology clinic were collected and tested for Simkania DNA by PCR method.

RESULTS

The presence of bacterial nucleic acids was confirmed in the genital system of adult females with an overall prevalence of 24.26% (41/169). Interestingly, the positivity of Simkania DNA was significantly higher in women of reproductive age than females of non-reproductive age (28.03% versus 10.81%; p≤0.05). Moreover, the presence of S. negevensis was evident in approximately 43% of females suffering from vaginal itching and/or abnormal discharge, exhibiting about two-fold increase in the positivity rate compared to detection rates assessed for women who attended the clinic for routine checkup or menstruation problems. However, the current work failed to find any link between the bacterial agent and spontaneous abortion (miscarriage).

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed for the first time the presence of S. negevensis in the genitalia of human females. These novel data could provide a basis to clarify the exact role of S. negevensis in the female genitalia and its potential involvement in genital system disorders.

[Health professionals' perception about the socio-educational group intervention with women who present somatic symptoms without organic cause]

Objetivo

Conocer la percepción y opinión de profesionales de la salud de Atención Primaria sobre el impacto de la intervención grupal socioeducativa (GRUSE) no medicalizadora con mujeres que presentan síntomas somáticos sin causa orgánica.

Diseño

Estudio cualitativo fenomenológico.

Emplazamiento

Centros de salud de atención primaria de la Comunidad Autónoma de Andalucía, durante los años 2017 y 2018.

Participantes o contextos

Se incluyó a 24 profesionales del ámbito de la salud, seleccionados según su nivel de implicación en la estrategia GRUSE (grupos socioeducativos).

Método

Se aplicó una metodología cualitativa, a través del método fenomenológico. La técnica empleada para recopilar la información es el grupo de discusión, sobre el que se realizó un análisis de contenido. El software Atlas.ti 8.0 se empleó como recurso de apoyo al análisis.

Resultados

Los profesionales ponen en valor el trabajo de grupo como medio para provocar cambios y refieren la importancia de la intervención como estrategia no medicalizadora. Perciben que las participantes obtienen una serie de beneficios: mejora de su bienestar personal, aumento de su autoestima y autodeterminación y la generación de redes sociales, beneficios que repercuten igualmente en su entorno más inmediato.

Conclusiones

En opinión de los profesionales, la estrategia tiene efectos positivos en las mujeres y no supone un incremento de los recursos para el sistema sanitario. Además, manifiestan la importancia de dotar a las mujeres de herramientas para el afrontamiento de problemas de la vida cotidiana, que derivan, en muchas de las ocasiones, de los mandatos de género predominantes en la sociedad patriarcal.

Cardiovascular diseases in people with diabetes mellitus in Spain according to the Primary Care Clinical Database (BDCAP) in 2017

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and heart failure are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with diabetes. The objective of this work is to know the prevalence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases and heart failure in people diagnosed with diabetes in Spain during 2017 and compare them with those not diagnosed with diabetes according to age and sex.

METHODS

Data for diagnoses of diabetes mellitus (DM), acute myocardial infarction (AMI), stroke, peripheral artery disease (PAD) or heart failure (HF) for 2017 were obtained from the National Health System's Primary Care Clinical Database (BDCAP).

RESULTS

Comparing people with diabetes and people without diabetes over 35 years of age, the Odds Ratio (OR) for being diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction, stroke, peripheral artery disease or heart failure is about 2 in those over 64 years of age and more than 4 in patients under that age. This OR is superior in females versus males for all diagnoses apart from peripheral artery disease.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows the high cardiovascular comorbidity of patients with diabetes in Spain, with a greater excess of risk in patients under 65 years of age, more pronounced in women. We should offer more intensive treatment for DM2 in women.

The association of assault military sexual trauma and sexual function among partnered female service members and veterans: the mediating roles of depression and sexual self-schemas

Background: Military sexual trauma (MST) that involves assault is associated with poorer sexual function in U. S. women service members/veterans (SM/Vs). Theory of sexual function suggests that the presence of higher depression severity and more negative sexual self-schemas may contribute to sexual dysfunction. This has yet to be examined in partnered women SM/Vs who are survivors of MST. Objective: Using path analysis, the current study examined the associations of MST type, depression, sexual self-schemas, and sexual function in 818 partnered women SM/Vs. Method: Three separate mediation models were tested, all testing indirect effects of depression and sexual self-schemas on the association of MST type and sexual function. In Model 1, the mediation model assumed that exposure to MST predicted more severe depression, which then predicted more negative sexual self-schemas. More negative sexual self-schemas, in turn, predicted poorer sexual function. In Model 2, the mediation model assumed that exposure to MST predicted more negative sexual self-schemas, which then predicted more severe depression. More severe depression, in turn, predicted poorer sexual function. In Model 3, the mediation model assumed a parallel mediation in that exposure to MST predicted more severe depression and more negative sexual self-schemas, which in turn, predicted poorer sexual function. Results: The best fitting model suggested a parallel mediation of higher depression severity (estimate: -1.30, confidence interval: -1.91,-.69) and more negative sexual self-schemas (estimate: -2.09, confidence interval: -2.94,-1.24) on the association of assault MST and poorer sexual function (Model 3). Harassment-only MST was unrelated to sexual function through mediated pathways. Conclusions: Interventions to improve sexual function among MST survivors who experienced assault should address negative sexual self-schemas related to sexual performance and depressive symptoms. Cognitive behavioural interventions that include challenging maladaptive cognitions may be well suited to address this clinical need.

[Pesticide exposure in Chile and population health: urgency for decision making]

In the last 25 years, Chile has had an expanding role as an agro-export country in the global economy, with efficient rates of productivity in the region, based on the technological development of agriculture, with of large monocultures whose productivity depends on the intensive application of agrochemicals. This form of agriculture has also lacked efficient regulations and surveillance, so it is difficult to estimate the real magnitude of the exposed population and its effects on health in the short or long term. This systematic review compiles the epidemiological evidence generated from studies conducted in several regions of Chile regarding pesticide exposure and health effects. Of the total number of articles, 50% included agricultural workers, 25% children, and 25% women of childbearing age, with the greatest effects being the neurotoxic (54%), genotoxic (31%) and reproductive (15%). The evidence collected shows that in Chile the levels of exposure to pesticides in the general and occupational population are higher than international studies levels. It is urgent to protect the health of both the occupational and general population and especially children through a stricter control of the sale and use of pesticides, with comprehensive surveillance systems in environmental health and educational actions in the social and cultural context of rural communities. It is a priority to strengthen research with national relevance on health effects, and strictly restrict the use of pesticides already prohibited in developed countries due to their high level of risk to human and environmental health.

Large study (283 women) on the effectiveness of Manosar®: 2 g of d-mannose + 140 mg of proanthocyanidins (PAC), of prolonged release

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy and safety in the prophylasis of urinary tract infections (UTIs) with a food supplement that contains D-mannose like active ingredient (Manosar®), in comparison to another preparation in which the active ingredient are the proanthocyanidins (PAC), both of them, in prolonged released, after, they was administered for 24 weeks.

METHODS

A multicenter, randomized and double blind experimental study was carried out. 283 women with a history of recurrent UTIs without evidence of complication were included. They were randomized 1: 1 in two groups. In one group, 1 oral sachet of Manosar® a day was administered, and in the other group 1 oral sachet of a compound of 240 mg of continuous-release PAC. Prior to inclusion in the study, the episode of UTI was confirmed at least by the clinical symptoms and positivity of the Combur test.

RESULTS

Valid data were obtained from 184 patients with an average age of 49.5 years: 90 received Manosar® and 94 isolated PAC. A total of 72 patients suffered an UTI due to E.coli: 25 patients in the arm with Manosar® versus 47 patients in the isolated PAC group, this difference being statistically significant (p=0.002). The free time of new UTI recurrences was 98.6 days in the group treated with Manosar® and 84.6 days in the group with isolated PAC.

CONCLUSION

The oral taking of a daily sachet of Manosar® is effective and safe in preventing recurrent UTIs in women, being superior to the oral taking of isolated PAC.

Differences in in-hospital mortality after STEMI versus NSTEMI by sex. Eleven-year trend in the Spanish National Health Service

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Conflicting results have been reported on the possible existence of sex differences in mortality after myocardial infarction (MI). There is also a scarcity of data on the impact of sex on outcomes after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-STEMI (NSTEMI). The aim of this study was to analyze sex difference trends in sex-related differences in mortality for STEMI and NSTEMI.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 445 145 episodes of MI (2005-2015) was carried out using information from the Spanish National Health System. The incidence rates were expressed as events per 10 000 person-years. The denominators (age-specific groups) were obtained from the nationwide census. We calculated crude and adjusted (multilevel logistic regression) mortality. Poisson regression analysis was used to study temporal trends for in-hospital mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 69.8% episodes occurred in men. The mean age in men was 66.1±13.3 years, which was significantly younger than in women, 74.9±12.1 (P<.001). A total of 272 407 (61.2%) episodes were STEMI, and 172 738 (38.8%) were NSTEMI. Women accounted for 28.8% of STEMI and 33.9% of NSTEMI episodes (P <.001). The effect of female sex on risk-adjusted models for in-hospital mortality was the opposite in STEMI (OR for women, 1.18; 95%CI, 1.14-1.22; P <.001) and NSTEMI (OR for women, 0.85; 95%CI, 0.81-0.89; P <.001). MI hospitalization rates were higher in men than in women for all age groups [20 vs 7.7 per 10 000 individuals aged 35-94 years (P <.001)], with a trend to diminish in both sexes.

CONCLUSIONS

Women had a slight but significantly increased risk of in-hospital mortality after MI, but the effect of sex depended on MI type, with women exhibiting higher mortality for STEMI and lower mortality for NSTEMI.

Alcohol, age at first sexual intercourse and number of sexual partners in young Mexican women

AIM

To identify the relationship between use of alcohol, number of sexual partners and age of sexual initiation.

METHOD

Descriptive-correlational study. A random sample of 319 young women (age 18-25) from Nuevo Laredo, Mexico was recruited. A sociodemographic data sheet and the AUDIT questionnaire were used. Non-parametric Spearman's rank correlation coefficient and Kruskal-Wallis H test were selected.

RESULTS

On average the participants were 20.70 years old (±2.1), had had 1.86 sexual partners (±1.27), started drinking alcohol at the age of 16.82 (±1.79), and their first sexual intercourse was at the age of 17.38 (±1.65). There was a decrease in the age of onset of alcohol use (H=16.646, p <.001) and the age at first sexual intercourse (H=26.749, P<.001) on the lower their current age. The overall AUDIT score negatively correlated with the age of the participants on their first sexual intercourse (rs=-.168, P<.001) and positively correlated with the number of sexual partners (rs=.243, P<.001). The aforementioned correlations were more intense among the younger participants (18- and 19-year olds; P<.01).

CONCLUSIONS

There was an association between higher use of alcohol, early age of sexual initiation and number of sexual partners. Nursing professionals may address such variables simultaneously through preventive strategies directed specifically at young women.

Gender differences in acute coronary syndrome. "Comandante Manuel Fajardo" Hospital, 2016-2017

INTRODUCTION

There are both biological and sociocultural differences in patients with cardiovascular diseases. Inequalities in the prognosis between women and men are due to several variables, including specific risk factors for females, discrepancies in treatment strategies, and pathophysiological differences.

OBJECTIVE

To identify gender differences in patients with acute coronary syndrome.

METHODS

An observational, analytical, cross-sectional study was carried out on the gender differences in 170 patients with a diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome who were discharged from the Intensive Coronary Care Unit of the Comandante Manuel Fajardo Clinical-Surgical Hospital in 2016 and 2017.

RESULTS

Females had a statistically very significant association, with a higher mean age (68 vs. 62, P<.01) and with a history of arterial hypertension (91.2 vs. 72.3% P<.01). The smoking habit showed a statistically significant association with male individuals (50.5 vs. 30.4% P=.017). Males had a significantly higher median creatinine (90μmol/L vs. 80μmol/L, P<.01). Women showed an increased risk of haemodynamic complications (OR=3.11, 95% CI=1.20-8.04).

CONCLUSIONS

In women with acute coronary syndrome, being female is associated with older age, a history of arterial hypertension, and the appearance of haemodynamic complications during admission. Males are associated with smoking habits and higher concentrations of serum creatinine.

Third trimester gestational anemia: frequency and severity according to maternal age

INTRODUCCIÓN

La anemia es muy frecuente durante el embarazo y tiene repercusiones en la madre y en su hijo.

OBJETIVO

Determinar la frecuencia y la gravedad de la anemia gestacional del tercer trimestre (hemoglobinemia < 11 g/dl), según la edad materna de los nacimientos atendidos en el Hospital Vicente Corral, entre septiembre de 2016 y febrero de 2017.

MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS

Estudio transversal. Muestra: 428 gestantes. Criterios de inclusión: embarazadas con ≥ 27 semanas de gestación, reporte de hemoglobina y neonato vivo. Criterios de exclusión: embarazo gemelar, neonato con malformaciones congénitas mayores, madre con enfermedades crónicas. Análisis estadístico: para las variables cuantitativas se calcularon la mediana y los valores mínimo y máximo; para las variables cualitativas, las frecuencias absolutas y relativas; para establecer una asociación se utilizó la prueba de ji al cuadrado, y para la significancia estadística se consideró p < 0.05.

RESULTADOS

La mediana de edad materna fue de 23 años y 4 meses. Hemoglobina en mujeres: anémicas 9.9 g/dl, no anémicas 12.2 g/dl (p = 0.000). Frecuencia de anemia: global 31.8%, en < 20 años 41.5%, en 20-34 años 26.5% y en > 35 años 35.6%. Gravedad de la anemia: leve 18.7%, moderada 12.6%, grave 0.5%. La edad materna influyó en la frecuencia de la anemia (ji al cuadrado de Pearson = 8.911, p = 0.012), pero no en su gravedad (ji al cuadrado de Pearson = 1.078, p = 0.898). Frecuencia de microcitosis: 36.9% en mujeres anémicas. El volumen corpuscular medio y la gravedad de la anemia mostraron asociación (p = 0.019).

CONCLUSIONES

La frecuencia de la anemia en el tercer trimestre de la gestación fue alta, con predominio de la anemia leve. Afectó en especial a mujeres < 20 años y ≥ 35 años.

BACKGROUND

Anemia is very frequent condition in pregnant women and it has repercussions for both mother and child.

OBJECTIVE

Determine the frequency and severity of third trimester gestational anemia (hemoglobinemia < 11 g/dL) according to maternal age, in women whose child was born at the Hospital Vicente Corral, between September 2016 and February 2017.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Transversal study. Sample: 428 pregnant women. Inclusion criteria: pregnancy of ≥ 27 weeks, hemoglobin report and live neonate. Exclusion criteria: twin newborns, neonate with major congenital malformations, mother with chronic diseases. Statistical analysis: in the quantitative variables, median, minimum and maximum values were calculated; in qualitative variables, absolute and relative frequencies were obtained; to demonstrate association Chi square was used and for statistical significance p-valor < 0.05.

RESULTS

Median for maternal age: 23 years 4 months. Hemoglobin: in anemic women 9.9 g/dl, in non-anemic 12.2 g/dl (p = 0.000). Anemia frequency: overall 31.8%, in < 20 years 41.5%, in women 20-34 years 26.5% and in > 35 years 35.6%. Severity of anemia: mild 18.7%, moderate 12.6, severe 0.5%. Maternal age influenced the frequency of anemia (Pearson’s Chi square = 8.911, p-value = 0.012), but not in its severity (Pearson’s Chi square = 1.078, p-value = 0.898). Microcytosis frequency was 36.9% in anemic women. The mean corpuscular volume was associated with the severity of the anemia (p-value = 0.019).

CONCLUSIONS

The frequency of anemia in the third trimester of pregnancy was high, the mild anemia was predominant. It mainly affected women < 20 and > 35 years old.

[Accessibility of deaf women to the public health system of the Basque Country (Spain)]

OBJECTIVE

To explore what are the perceptions and experiences of deaf women in relation to accessibility to the Basque Public Health System (Osakidetza). As a secondary objective, explore the experience of these women about gender violence.

METHOD

A qualitative study with exploratory design is developed. The selection of the informants was carried out through intentional sampling. Deaf women were invited to participate through the Federation of Deaf People of the Basque Country. Four discussion groups were developed between October 2013 and July 2014, with duration of 90-120minutes. The discussion groups were recorded in video for their later literal transcription in which the service of interpreters of sign language of Euskadi participated. Thematic analyses carried out.

RESULTS

Three main categories arise: 1) feelings of discrimination and limitation of the principle of autonomy; 2) barriers and facilitators in the accessibility to the health system; and 3) vulnerability of deaf women as a result of the lack of communication.

CONCLUSIONS

Nowadays, deaf women continue having difficulties in accessing to the health system in our context. The results of this study can be the starting point for the development of health policies and institutional protocols.

An exaggerated increase in blood pressure with exercise does not predict mortality or severe cardiovascular events in women referred for exercise echocardiography for clinical reasons

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The association between an exaggerated systolic blood pressure increase with exercise (EBPIE) and the probability of cardiovascular events is controversial and poorly studied in the female population. Our aim was to determine the possible association between EBPIE on one hand and mortality and cardiovascular events on the other in women referred for exercise echocardiography due to known or suspected coronary artery disease.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 3942 women with known or suspected coronary artery disease underwent exercise echocardiography. We defined EBPIE as a ≥70mm Hg increase in systolic blood pressure with exercise. The study endpoints were overall and cardiac mortality, acute myocardial infarction (MI), stroke and coronary revascularisation procedures.

RESULTS

A total of 332 women developed EBPIE during the test. During the follow-up, 458 deaths (162 of cardiac origin), 212 MIs, 89 strokes and 345 coronary revascularisation procedures were recorded. The annual rates of overall and cardiac mortality were lower in the patient subgroup with EBPIE (0.15% vs. 2.3%, P=.02 and 0.01% vs. 0.2%, P=.015, respectively). There were no significant differences in the rates of MI, stroke and the need for coronary revascularisation procedures, which occurred in 1.1%, 0.43% and 2.24% of the patients with EBPIE, respectively, and occurred in 0.09%, 0.05% and 0.13% of the women without EBPIE (P=.66; P=.57; P=.19, respectively). After a multivariate adjustment, EBPIE was not a predictor of mortality or cardiovascular events.

CONCLUSIONS

EBPIE is not associated with mortality or severe cardiovascular events in women with known or suspected coronary artery disease.

[Glass ceiling and gender inequalities in the careers of women academics in biomedical sciences]

OBJECTIVE

To identify in the international scientific literature the obstacles and potential promoters for the advancement of women academics and researchers in biomedical sciences during their professional careers.

METHOD

PubMed, Scopus, CinahlPlus, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, PsycInfo and Sociological Abstracts were systematically searched for articles published in English and Spanish between January 2006 and December 2016 on the phenomenon of the glass ceiling in women academics and researchers in biomedical sciences. The screening was carried out by independent reviewers.

RESULTS

A total of 2254 studies were found, of which 23 were included in the review. The obstacles identified for the promotion of women academics and/or researchers in biomedical sciences are: gender bias in the evaluation of research results, individualism and lack of collaboration, women's lack of influence, the existence of gender inequalities in access to employment. The perception of sexism and discrimination in the work environment, and the difficulties in reconciling work and family life. The promoting elements are: examples of women in leadership positions, mentoring, facilitating conciliation, transparency in recruitment, participation in decision-making, gender assessment of research, awareness of gender inequalities in institutions, promoting collaboration, and pay equity.

CONCLUSIONS

By enhancing the elements favouring the promotion of academic women in biomedical sciences would help to reduce the glass ceiling in the career paths of women academics and health science researchers by increasing their participation, leadership and representation. A change of organizational and institutional values is required to achieve this.

Differential prognostic impact of type 2 diabetes mellitus in women and men with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) is a common comorbidity in patients with heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Previous studies have shown that diabetic women are at higher risk of developing HF than men. However, the long-term prognosis of diabetic HFpEF patients by sex has not been extensively explored. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the differential impact of DM2 on all-cause mortality in men vs women with HFpEF after admission for acute HF.

METHODS

We prospectively included 1019 consecutive HFpEF patients discharged after admission for acute HF in a single tertiary referral hospital. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate the interaction between sex and DM2 regarding the risk of long-term all-cause mortality. Risk estimates were calculated as hazard ratios (HR).

RESULTS

The mean age of the cohort was 75.6±9.5 years and 609 (59.8%) were women. The proportion of DM2 was similar between sexes (45.1% vs 49.1, P=.211). At a median (interquartile range) follow-up of 3.6 (1-4-6.8) years, 646 (63.4%) patients died. After adjustment for risk factors, comorbidities, biomarkers, echo parameters and treatment at discharge, multivariate analysis showed a differential prognostic effect of DM2 (P value for interaction=.007). DM2 was associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality in women (HR, 1.77; 95%CI, 1.41-2.21; P <.001) but not in men (HR, 1.23; 95%CI, 0.94-1.61; P=.127).

CONCLUSIONS

After an episode of acute HF in HFpEF patients, DM2 confers a higher risk of mortality in women. Further studies evaluating the impact of DM2 in women with HFpEF are warranted.

[Brecha de género en la autoría de artículos publicados en el Boletín Médico del Hospital Infantil de México]

Introducción

La participación de las mujeres en medicina ha incrementado en las últimas décadas, incluyendo mayor representatividad en la autoría de artículos científicos en diversos países y distintas especialidades. El objetivo del estudio fue analizar las diferencias de género en la autoría de artículos a través de la historia del Boletín Médico del Hospital Infantil de México.

Métodos

Se realizó un análisis bibliométrico de los artículos originales publicados en los años 1953, 1963, 1973, 1983, 1993, 2003 y 2013. Se identificó el género de los autores, tipo de autoría (primer autor o autor correspondiente) y el diseño de estudio (descriptivo vs. analítico). Se evaluó la diferencia en la proporción de género y la tendencia en el tiempo.

Resultados

Se incluyeron 272 artículos. Se observó una reducción en la brecha de género entre 1953 y 2013. La participación de las mujeres como primeras autoras incrementó del 2 al 63% (p < 0.001) y como correspondiente del 27 al 59% (p < 0.001). Al considerar únicamente estudios analíticos, el incremento fue del 25 al 50% como primera autora (p = 0.03), con un cambio similar como autor correspondiente, pero sin una tendencia significativa en el tiempo (p = 0.19). La reducción en la brecha de género fue más notoria a partir del periodo 1983-1993.

Conclusiones

En las últimas décadas ha existido un incremento significativo en la autoría de las mujeres en el Boletín Médico del Hospital Infantil de México, llegando incluso a una mayor proporción en relación con el sexo masculino. Lo anterior es un reflejo del papel actual de las mujeres en la medicina; en particular, en el área pediátrica.

Background

Women’s participation in medicine has increased in the last decades, with greater representativeness in the authorship of scientific articles in many countries and different specialties. The objective of this research was to analyze the gender gap in the authorship of articles through the history of the medical journal Boletín Médico del Hospital Infantil de México.

Methods

In a bibliometric analysis, we reviewed original articles published during the years 1953, 1963, 1973, 1983, 1993, 2003 and 2013. The gender of the author, type of authorship (first author or corresponding author) and the design of the study (descriptive vs analytic) were identified. We evaluated the difference between gender proportion and trends over time.

Results

We included 272 articles. We observed a gender gap reduction between 1953 and 2013. The participation of women as first author increased from 2 to 63% (p < 0.001) and as corresponding author from 27 to 59% (p < 0.001). If we include only analytic studies, the increasing was 25 to 50% as first author (p = 0.03), with a similar tendency as corresponding author, but without a statistical significant on time (p = 0.19). We observed the most notable change since 1983-1993.

Conclusions

In the last decades, there has been a significant increase in women´s authorship in the medical journal Boletín Médico del Hospital Infantil de México, even reaching a greater proportion against male gender. This reflects the present role of women in medicine, particularly in pediatrics.

ApoB/ApoA1 ratio and non-HDL-cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol ratio are associated to metabolic syndrome in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus subjects and to ischemic cardiomyopathy in diabetic women

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Presence of metabolic syndrome (MS) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) involves an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and death. Markers such as ApoB/ApoA1 and non-HDL-cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol ratios have been used to predict this risk with conflicting results. The study objective was to establish the relationship between the apoB/apoA1 and non-HDL-cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol ratios and MS in T2DM patients from a Madrid (Spain) district.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

One hundred patients with T2DM who attended University Hospital Infanta Leonor (Vallecas, Madrid, Spain) between January 2014 and June 2017 were enrolled. A blood sample was taken every 6 months from all patients to measure the different lipid parameters and to calculate ApoB/ApoA1 and non-HDL-cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol ratios. A Mann-Whitney's U test to compare means and a Spearman's correlation test for correlations between variables were used, and a multivariate regression analysis was performed to determine the association between MS and the ApoB/ApoA1 and non-HDL-cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol ratios. Values of p<0.05 were considered significant.

RESULTS

Associations were found between MS and ApoA1 (R²=0.164, p=0.028), ApoB/ApoA1 (R²=0.187, p=0.001), and non-HDL-cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol (R²= 0.269, p=0.0001) ratios and, in women with MS, between ApoB/ApoA1 ratio and ischemic cardiomyopathy (IC) (R²=0.160, p=0.032). Associations remained after adjusting for comorbidities and risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

In the T2DM patients studied, MS was independently associated to ApoA1 and the ApoB/ApoA1 and non-HDL-cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol ratios. Both ratios were better predictors of MS in T2DM subjects that its components alone. The ApoB/ApoA1 ratio could be used as a cardiovascular risk marker in women with MS.

The association between vitamin D status and metabolic syndrome and its components among female teachers residing in Yazd city

BACKGROUND

Studies trying to find the association between vitamin D status and metabolic syndrome (MetS) have led to inconsistent results, and community-based data for individuals living in the Middle East are limited.

OBJECTIVES

To find out if MetS and its components are associated with vitamin D status among female teachers residing in Yazd city during winter 2015.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 276 female teachers (case group, n=124 and control group, n=152) aged 20-60 years were included. Weight, height, waist circumference, blood pressure, daily energy intake, physical activity, serum 25 hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D₃), fasting blood glucose, triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels were assessed. Logistic regression was used to examine the odds ratio of MetS according to vitamin D status.

RESULTS

Mean serum 25(OH)D₃ was 32.79±18.62ng/ml and 33.73±20.20, in females with and without MetS, respectively (P>0.142). Compared to those with 25(OH)D₃of <20ng/ml, the odds ratio for MetS was 1.01 (95% CI: 0.48-2.13) and 0.95 (95% CI: 0.56-1.60) for those with serum 25(OH)D₃ levels of 20-29ng/ml and ≥30ng/ml, respectively (P trend=0.84). The association remained insignificant after adjusting for potential confounders. Furthermore, vitamin D status was not associated with MetS components (P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

Although several studies have claimed the association between vitamin D status and MetS, we could not find a similar connection in a sample of Iranian female teachers. Prospective studies are needed to determine the possible effect of vitamin D in the development of MetS, particularly in the Yazd province.

25-Hydroxyvitamin D serum levels in rheumatic female patients in southeast Spain: The paradigm of daily optimal sunshine levels and inadequate vitamin D status

BACKGROUND

Almeria is a region in southeast Spain with optimal sunlight levels, along with low pluvial and pollution rates. If exposure to sunlight is sufficient to maintain adequate levels of vitamin D (25OHD), this population should display high serum levels.

OBJECTIVES

To describe 25OHD serum status in women from Almeria and evaluate the impact of long sunlight exposure along the seasons on 25OHD.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study, performed in women consecutively recruited from an outpatient rheumatology clinic. Serum levels of 25OHD were assessed in all patients and evaluated according to age (<48 yrs, 48-53 yrs, 54-60 yrs and >60 yrs), season, and presence or absence of menopause. Clinical and laboratory variables that could affect status of vitamin D were also considered.

RESULTS

The sample included 319 Caucasian female patients. Mean 25OHD were 30.2ng/ml with 195 (61.1%) exhibiting 25OHD inadequate serum levels. Season had a significant effect on 25OHD levels, with autumn being the season in which 25OHD serum levels remained well above 30ng/ml in all age bands, and winter the season with more levels of insufficiency. Menopause did not modify 25OH serum levels. Women whose age was below 48 and over 60 had inadequate levels of 25OHD during summer.

CONCLUSIONS

Optimal levels of sunlight could not overcome the problem of inadequate 25OHD serum levels, particularly in elderly and young female population. Vitamin D supplementation may be recommended predominantly in winter and summer in this population.

Justifying abuse of women migrant domestic workers in Lebanon: the opinion of recruitment agencies

OBJECTIVE

Gender-based violence against women migrant domestic workers (WMDW) is a serious public health concern in the Middle East region. The current study is the first to explore abuse of WMDW as perceived by recruitment agency managers.

METHOD

A qualitative study was conducted using 42 personal semi-structural interviews with agency managers in Lebanon. The interview guidelines were designed based on the standards set by the International Labor Organization (ILO) Convention No. 189. The information was transcribed in Arabic, and data was analyzed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

The interviewees believe that WMDW are subject to abusive practices that represent various violations of the ILO Convention No. 189, including harassment and violence, compulsory labour, misinformation about conditions of employment, denial of periods of rest and restriction of movement and travel documents. In many situations, the interviewees justified some of these practices as being necessary to protect their business and to protect the workers.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study have several policy implications for the protection of WMDW against abuse.

The emotional universe of women affected by hepatitis C: A hermeneutic approach

OBJECTIVES

Understanding the emotional universe of women from Cordoba affected by hepatitis C.

METHOD

Hermeneutic qualitative study. Participants met the criteria of being adult women with a current diagnosis of hepatitis C and belonging to the Plataforma de Afectad@s por la Hepatitis C of Cordoba. The intentional sampling was nominated and followed a criterion of intensity. Data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews. The analysis took place in 3levels: Explanation, naïve understanding and in-depth understanding. In the second level, the metaphor universe of emotions was incorporated, which is a taxonomy that organizes emotions into clusters of galaxies to facilitate understanding of affective phenomena.

RESULTS

Four participants were included. Seven themes roam the galaxies in the emotional universe of women. «Damned disease» explores their disgust, sadness and shame. «Intimate affections» focuses on happiness and love as well as sadness. «Friendship-platform» focuses on understanding, welfare and affection. «Physicians» deal with distrust and disappointment regarding new treatment, and with «curing» sadness, fear, anxiety and hope. «State of ill-being» focuses on anxiety. And «universal access now» explores anger.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the presence of love in the complex emotional universe of women with hepatitis C, anger, sadness and anxiety are highlighted. Hermeneutics of their emotions facilitates nursing care and nursing research humanization.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Treatment Does not Reduce Uric Acid Levels in OSA Women

OBJECTIVES

Although an association between uric acid (UA) levels and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has been reported, the effect of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on this measure is yet unclear. We aimed to investigate the effect of CPAP therapy on serum UA levels in patients with OSA.

METHODS

We conducted a multicenter, open-label, randomized controlled trial in 307 women diagnosed with moderate-to-severe OSA (apnea-hypopnea index [AHI]≥15) in 19 Spanish Sleep Units. Women were randomized to CPAP (n=151) or conservative treatment (n=156) for 12 weeks. Changes in serum UA measures were assessed on an intention-to-treat basis. Additional analyses were conducted in the subgroup of women with CPAP adherence ≥4h/night and those with UA levels ≥6mg/dl.

RESULTS

Women had a mean (SD) age of 57.1 (10.1) years, median (first-third quartile) body mass index of 33.7 (29.0-38.5) mg/kg² and AHI of 32.0 (22.6-48.5). The average serum UA measure was 5.11 (1.26) mg/dl, and 80 (26.1%) participants had UA≥6mg/dl. Compared with the control group, the CPAP group did not achieve any reduction in UA levels (non-adjusted intergroup difference -0.03mg/dl, 95%CI -0.20 to 0.13; p=0.702) after 12 weeks of follow-up. These results did not change when the analysis was restricted to women with CPAP adherence ≥4h/night, or the subgroup of women with hyperuricemia.

CONCLUSIONS

Twelve weeks of CPAP therapy does not reduce UA levels compared to conservative treatment in women with moderate-to-severe OSA.

Cost-effectiveness of a primary care-based exercise intervention in perimenopausal women. The FLAMENCO Project

OBJECTIVE

Adequate physical activity levels and a healthy lifestyle may prevent all kinds of non-communicable diseases, promote well-being and reduce health-care costs among perimenopausal women. This study assessed an exercise programme for perimenopausal women.

METHOD

A total of 150 women (aged 45-64 years) not engaged in regular physical activity were randomly assigned to either a 16 week exercise intervention or to the control group. The study was conducted from the perspective of the National Health System. Health outcomes were quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), measured by the EuroQol-5D-5L questionnaire. The total direct costs of the programme were the costs of visits to primary care, specialty care, emergency, medicines, instructor cost and infrastructure cost. The results were expressed as the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. Sensitivity analysis was undertaken to test the robustness of the analysis.

RESULTS

Mean QALYs over 16 weeks were.228 in the control group and.230 in the intervention group (mean difference: .002; 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: -0.005 to 0.009). Improvements from baseline were greater in the intervention group in all dimensions of the EuroQol-5D-5L but not statistically significant. The total costs at the end of the intervention were 160.38 € in the control group and 167.80 € in the intervention group (mean difference: 7.42 €; 95%CI: -47 to 62). The exercise programme had an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of 4,686 €/QALY.

CONCLUSIONS

The programme could be considered cost-effective, although the overall difference in health benefits and costs was very modest. Longer term follow-up is needed.

Quality of Care and 30-day Mortality of Women and Men With Acute Myocardial Infarction

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Despite increased awareness of sex disparities in care and outcomes of acute myocardial infarction (AMI), there appears to have been no consistent attenuation of these differences over the last decade. We investigated differences by sex in management and 30-day mortality using the European Society of Cardiology Acute Cardiovascular Care Association quality indicators (QIs) for AMI.

METHODS

Proportions and standard errors of the 20 Acute Cardiovascular Care Association QIs were calculated for 771 patients with AMI who were admitted to the cardiology departments of 2 tertiary hospitals in Portugal between August 2013 and December 2014. The association between the composite QI and 30-day mortality was derived from logistic regression.

RESULTS

Significantly fewer eligible women than men received timely reperfusion, were discharged on dual antiplatelet therapy and high-intensity statins, and were referred to cardiac rehabilitation. Women were less likely to receive recommended interventions (59.6% vs 65.2%; P <.001) and also had higher mean GRACE 2.0 risk score-adjusted 30-day mortality (3.0% vs 1.7%; P <.001). An inverse association between the composite QI and crude 30-day mortality was observed for both sexes (OR, 0.08; 95%CI, 0.01-0.64 for the highest performance tertile vs the lowest).

CONCLUSIONS

Performance in AMI management is worse for women than men and is associated with higher 30-day mortality, which is also worse for women. Evidence-based QIs have the potential to improve health care delivery and patient prognosis in the overall AMI population and may also bridge the disparity gap between women and men.

[Sexual and reproductive health in Roma women: the family planning programme of Polígono Sur in Seville (Spain)]

OBJECTIVE

To describe the challenges, resources and strategies of the staff of the family planning programme of the Polígono Sur Healthcare Centre in Seville (Spain) in their care of Roma women.

METHOD

This is a descriptive study in which in-depth interviews and discussion groups were held with all programme professionals, including a documentary review of the programme. The information was analyzed based on the Roma Health Integration Policy Index, a tool that evaluates the entitlement, accessibility, sensitivity and capacity for change of health programmes for the Roma population.

RESULTS

The professionals encountered multiple challenges to implement the family planning programme with Roma women due to the characteristics of the users and the low sensitivity of the programme towards them. The absence of specific actions for Roma women within the family planning programme, agreed to by the healthcare district, obliges professionals to develop adaptations and strategies to ensure quality sexual and reproductive health services for their users.

CONCLUSIONS

It is necessary to adapt sexual and reproductive health programmes targeted at Roma women by (a) detecting, evaluating, systematizing and disseminating good practices, (b) developing actions that address the multiple vulnerabilities of Roma women, (c) acknowledging professionals who advocate for the health of these women within their organizations, and (d) promoting reproductive justice as the goal of these programmes.

Educational intervention on cardiovascular parameters in perimenopausal women with a cardiovascular risk factor. Randomised clinical trial

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Randomised clinical trial performed in two urban health centres in Spain. To evaluate if educational intervention in women of perimenopausal age with hypertension, diabetes mellitus and/or dyslipidaemia could achieve significant changes in the reduction of biochemical and haemodynamic risk parameters.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study included 320 women aged between 45 and 60 years old who were diagnosed with hypertension, diabetes mellitus and/or dyslipidaemia. They were randomly assigned to the experimental group (n=160) and the control group (n=160). The intervention group received three educational sessions and the control group received an informative leaflet sent by mail. Haemodynamic and biochemical variables were evaluated at baseline and one year later in both groups.

RESULTS

Women in the intervention group showed a decrease in low density lipoprotein (P=.034), (-5.89±29.8; 95% CI: -13.1/0.27) and an increase in high density lipoprotein (P=.013), (2.71±10.6; 95% CI: -1.36/6.20), as well as improvements in systolic blood pressure (P=.016), (-2.16±11.8; 95% CI: -4.4/0.01) and frequency (P=.003), (-1.46±10.3; 95% CI: -3.34/0.42) compared to women in the control group. Women in the control group significantly increased glucose (P=.04), (4.84±15.5; 95% CI: -0.75/31.3) and gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase (P=.031), (3.61±14.7; 95% CI: 0.87/6.36) levels more than those in the experimental group.

CONCLUSIONS

An educational intervention can be an effective method of reducing the parameters associated with an increased likelihood of cardiovascular disease in women at perimenopausal age with hypertension, diabetes mellitus and/or dyslipidaemia.

Photoelicitation: a useful tool to investigate management of the vulnerability of homeless women

AIMS

The proposal of the manuscript is to provide a methodological reflection on the use of photo-elicitation as a data gathering strategy to explore vulnerability management among homeless women.

METHODS

A grounded theory study was carried out. Photo elicitation was one of the data gathering techniques used between February 2015 and February 2017. Five women were selected through intentional sampling. All of them were over 18 years old and residents in 4 shelters within the Madrid Care for the Homeless network. Participants used disposable cameras or mobile phones to record their experiences living in the shelters or on the street through photographs. An interview was conducted with each participant in order to explore the meaning of the photos after they were developed. Data analysis comprised, firstly, describing the obvious content of the photos and, secondly, comparing it with the latent content provided by participants during the interviews.

RESULTS

Only 3 women finished the task. Through data analysis some theoretical proposals were discovered, which contributed to a deeper knowledge of some previously established categories and subcategories such as: "The good professionals", "The safe places in the street" and "The threats in the street".

CONCLUSIONS

Photo-elicitation enabled an approach to participants' experiences with minimal imposition, allowing them much of the control over the data production. However, it is a demanding technique that requires deep reflection before its implementation, on the part of both participants and researchers.

[Lopinavir/ritonavir in human immunodeficiency virus-infected women]

There are clear sex-related biological differences between men and women. Diseases that affect the two sexes differently are studied separately. However, some diseases affect both men and women, but their incidence or outcome are clearly different. In human immunodeficiency virus infection, the potential differences in the effects of antiretroviral therapy are poorly characterized and few studies have been designed to elucidate these differences. Moreover, women are usually poorly represented in clinical trials of antiretroviral drugs.

[Is blood pressure control different in women than in men?]

Blood pressure (BP) evolves with age; until the 50's it is higher in men than in women, equaling and even then increasing in women. The prevalence of controlled BP appears to be similar between the sexes, but the prevalence of cardiovascular disease is higher in women than in men. The possibility that BP influences the cardiovascular risk differently according to sex must therefore be considered. While some studies suggest no difference exists, others have shown evidence of an increased risk in women with respect to men despite equal BP. In this way, it seems that the measurement of ambulatory BP, but not office BP, would mark the differences in the association between BP-gender and cardiovascular risk. It should therefore be investigated the possibility of a different BP goal for women and men, especially by evaluating ambulatory BP.

Predictors of having heard about human papillomavirus vaccination: Critical aspects for cervical cancer prevention among Colombian women

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether the probability of having heard about human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination differs by socio-demographic characteristics among Colombian women; and whether the effect of predictors of having heard about HPV vaccination varies by educational levels and rural/urban area of residence.

METHODS

Data of 53,521 women aged 13-49 years were drawn from the 2010 Colombian National Demographic and Health Survey. Women were asked about aspects of their health and their socio-demographic characteristics. A logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with having heard about HPV vaccination. Educational level and rural/urban area of residence of the women were tested as modifier effects of predictors.

RESULTS

26.8% of the women had heard about HPV vaccination. The odds of having heard about HPV vaccination were lower among women: in low wealth quintiles, without health insurance, with subsidized health insurance, and those who had children (p<0.001). Although women in older age groups and with better education had higher probabilities of having heard about HPV vaccination, differences in these probabilities by age group were more evident among educated women compared to non-educated ones. Probability gaps between non-educated and highly educated women were wider in the Eastern region. Living in rural areas decreased the probability of having heard about HPV vaccination, although narrower rural/urban gaps were observed in the Atlantic and Amazon-Orinoquía regions.

CONCLUSIONS

Almost three quarters of the Colombian women had not heard about HPV vaccination, with variations by socio-demographic characteristics. Women in disadvantaged groups were less likely to have heard about HPV vaccination.

[Prevalence and risk factors of urinary incontinence in women who visit the doctor with low back pain: multicentre study]

Objetivos

Estimar la prevalencia y los factores de riesgo de incontinencia urinaria (IU) en mujeres con dolor lumbopélvico (DLP) y describir sus características sociodemográficas y clínicas.

Diseño

Estudio observacional transversal.

Emplazamiento

Dos centros de Atención Primaria del Sur de Córdoba y un centro privado en Madrid.

Participantes

Trescientas sesenta y cuatro mujeres de 20-65 años (de 466 contactadas, 33 fueron excluidas y 69 rechazaron participar) que consultaron por dolor de espalda localizado entre la doceava costilla y el pliegue glúteo.

Intervenciones

Entrevista mediante cuestionario.

Mediciones principales

Cuestionarios (Índice de discapacidad de Oswestry y cuestionarios de IU [International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire SF e Cuestionario de Impacto de la Incontinencia-7]), prueba funcional (test ASLR) y comorbilidad de interés para la IU. Análisis estadístico descriptivo y multivariante.

Resultados

Se encontró IU en 155 mujeres (43%; IC del 95%, 37%-48%), en su mayoría de esfuerzo (83%) y mínimo impacto (60%). Frente a las continentes, las mujeres incontinentes presentaron diferencias significativas en la edad, el índice de masa corporal (IMC), el estado civil, el nivel de instrucción y la convivencia, el consumo de fármacos/día, el número de partos vaginales y totales, las intervenciones quirúrgicas abdominopélvicas, el asma, el estreñimiento, la hipertensión, la diabetes, el porcentaje de incapacidad y el test funcional ASLR. En el análisis multivariante, las variables que más influyen en la probabilidad de ser incontinente fueron el asma, la hipertensión, el estreñimiento, el número de partos totales, el IMC y el porcentaje de incapacidad.

Conclusiones

La prevalencia de IU en mujeres con DLP es mayor que la encontrada en mujeres de similar edad sin DLP. El asma, el estreñimiento y la paridad son los factores más influyentes en la aparición de IU.

Pelvic floor electrostimulation in women with urinary incontinence and/or overactive bladder syndrome: a systematic review

CONTEXT

Electrostimulation (ES) is one of the techniques employed in conservative treatment of urinary incontinence (UI) and/or overactive bladder syndrome (OAB). Nevertheless, there is controversy in the scientific literature regarding its effectiveness as monotherapy.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the scientific evidence on ES of the pelvic floor in women with UI and with/without OAB.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A systematic review of clinical trials was carried out in the following databases: PubMed, Cochrane, PEDro, Elsevier (Doyma) and EnFisPo (1980-2011). Quality of study registries was evaluated and information was obtained from those that presented the inclusion criteria established in the review.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

The 27 clinical trials were included in the review: 13 randomized controlled trials, 11 randomized non-controlled trials and 3 non-randomized trials.

CONCLUSION

Most of the clinical trials conclude that ES is effective in the treatment of UI and OAB in women. However, better methodological quality studies are needed to obtain a higher level of scientific evidence and to know the optimal current modality, type and parameters for each type of UI and OAB.

[Therapeutic Strategies. Cardiovascular risk and dyslipidemia in elderly and women]

The management of cardiovascular risk and dyslipidemia are justified in guidelines. In the elderly, when they are in primary prevention, recommendations are controversial, even if there is evidence in reducing morbidity. In secondary prevention, between 65 and 85 years, there is enough evidence to recommend statins. The decision to start or to continue further treatment must be complemented by comprehensive assessment of the risk-benefit factor. In elderly patients we have to support in decision-making, we take clinical judgment and not just the age criteria. In women the risk is underestimated and may be untreated. The recomendations are the same as in men. During pregnancy there are particular recommendations.

[Health-related quality of life in women working in the fishing industry measured through the Short-Form 36 questionnaire]

OBJECTIVE

To determine health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measured with the 36-item Short-Form (SF-36) questionnaire in women workers in the fishing industry, compared with norm-based values in the reference population and other similar samples of persons with musculoskeletal disorders.

METHOD

A cross-sectional study was performed to measure HRQoL in 917 shellfish gatherers. Women taking part in a physiotherapy workshop were invited to participate. We used a self-administered questionnaire, including questions on sociodemographic variables, lifestyle, comorbidity, the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders, and HRQoL. For the SF-36 raw scores, norm-based scores and z-scores were calculated.

RESULTS

The mean age of participants was 50.6 years (standard deviation: 8.8). In all dimensions of the SF-36, values in the sample were lower than in the general reference population. The greatest differences were in younger people. The most affected dimensions were bodily pain, vitality and general health. Physical health was more affected than mental health.

CONCLUSIONS

HRQoL, especially physical components, was worse in women shellfish gatherers than in the general population and other population samples.