Linda Simon Paulo, Virissa C Lenters, Pilly Chillo, Milka Wanjohi, Gonçalo J Piedade, Daniel R Mende, Vanessa Harris, Appolinary Kamuhabwa, Gideon Kwesigabo, Folkert W Asselbergs, K Klipstein-Grobusch
{"title":"Dietary patterns in Tanzania's transitioning rural and urban areas.","authors":"Linda Simon Paulo, Virissa C Lenters, Pilly Chillo, Milka Wanjohi, Gonçalo J Piedade, Daniel R Mende, Vanessa Harris, Appolinary Kamuhabwa, Gideon Kwesigabo, Folkert W Asselbergs, K Klipstein-Grobusch","doi":"10.1186/s41043-025-00774-w","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s41043-025-00774-w","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Like other Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) countries, Tanzania is undergoing socio-economic changes that impact lifestyles and dietary choices. Traditionally, differences in dietary habits between rural and urban areas in Tanzania and other SSA countries were prominent. However, recent research indicates converging lifestyles and dietary choices associated with increased risk of cardiometabolic diseases. The objective of the current study was hence to investigate differences and similarities in dietary patterns, energy, and food groups intake in urban and rural Tanzania.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Dietary habits were assessed by use of a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) for 442 respondents aged 44-65 years in urban (Ubungo -Dar es Salaam) and rural (Kilindi- Tanga) districts of Tanzania. Dietary patterns were determined using Principal Components Analysis (PCA). Bivariate analyses identified determinants of dietary patterns in urban and rural Tanzania.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Two dietary patterns, a \"mixed pattern\" characterized by whole grains, potatoes, fruits, vegetables, meat, fried potatoes and tubers, alcohol, sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB), sugar and sweets, and added oils and a \"plant-rich pattern\" characterized by whole grains, fruits, pulses and peas, seasoning vegetables and salads, SSB, sugar and sweets, and added oils were identified. Urban residents contributed more to the mixed pattern, while rural residents had a higher contribution to the plant-rich pattern. Overall, dietary diversity was greater in urban than rural Tanzania. The estimated median daily energy intake was 2,902 kcal (IQR: 1449.2) with a lower energy intake in rural (2,817 kcal, IQR: 1,274) as compared to urban residents (3,052 kcal, IQR: 1558) (p = 0.021). The percent contribution to the median average daily energy intake for grains, fruits, and milk was higher in rural than urban participants. No differences were observed for meat, poultry and eggs.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>We identified two distinct dietary patterns: a \"mixed pattern\" prominent in urban and a \"plant-rich pattern\" more common in rural. Urban diets were more diverse with slightly higher energy intake. These findings underscore the effects of urbanization on diets and the need for targeted nutritional intervention for both rural and urban populations.</p>","PeriodicalId":15969,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition","volume":"44 1","pages":"71"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2025-03-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11890720/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143585918","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Precipitation, temperature, and child undernutrition: evidence from the Mali demographic and health surveys 2012-2013 and 2018.","authors":"Yusuke Kamiya, Takaaki Kishida, Mariam Tanou","doi":"10.1186/s41043-025-00808-3","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s41043-025-00808-3","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Undernutrition among children remains a severe burden in Sub-Saharan Africa. Climate change is widely recognized as a major obstacle to improving children's nutritional outcomes. Mali, a landlocked country in West Africa, has one of the highest prevalence of child undernutrition in the region and is also considered one of the most vulnerable nations to climate change globally. This study, therefore, aimed to assess the effects of precipitation and temperature on child undernutrition in Mali, with a focus on climatic differences between the southern and northern regions.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We pooled the two most recent cross-sectional datasets from the Mali Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) 2012-2013 and DHS 2018, integrating them with climatic variables at the DHS cluster level. The study included data from 12,281 children under five years of age. Precipitation and temperature data were extracted from the Advancing Research on Nutrition and Agriculture's DHS-Geographical Information System database, which provides a comprehensive range of climatic and geographic variables at the DHS cluster level. We assessed the effects of precipitation and temperature over periods of three months, six months, one year, and two years before the survey on child undernutrition using multivariable multilevel logistic regression models.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>In southern Mali, 25.0% of children under five were stunted (95% CI 23.7-26.3%), 24.9% were underweight (95% CI 23.7-26.1%), and 9.3% were wasted (95% CI 8.5-10.1%). In northern Mali, the prevalence rates were higher: 29.6% for stunting (95% CI 27.0-32.1%), 28.7% for underweight (95% CI 26.0-31.3%), and 10.5% for wasting (95% CI 8.8-12.3%). From the pooled data analysis, we found that higher average monthly rainfall over the last three months (AOR = 0.977, p = 0.012) and six months (AOR = 0.974, p = 0.003) preceding the survey was significantly associated with lower odds of wasting in northern Mali, predominantly comprising desert areas. Moreover, in addition to reducing wasting, rainfall over the one year (AOR = 0.985, p = 0.010) and two years (AOR = 0.984, p = 0.009) prior to the survey showed a significant effect in reducing the odds of underweight among children in the north.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Increased precipitation had a beneficial effect on children's nutritional status, particularly in the northern part of Mali, where water scarcity is a persistent challenge. Amid growing concerns about declining rainfall due to climate change, the risk of child undernutrition is expected to rise in the northern part. To address this escalating threat, it is crucial to implement effective and timely measures to mitigate the impacts of climate change and improve children's nutrition.</p>","PeriodicalId":15969,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition","volume":"44 1","pages":"68"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2025-03-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11887182/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143573242","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Chubang Augustine Khamsa, John Bosco Isunju, Harriet M Babibako, Fred Nuwuha
{"title":"Adherence to standard infection prevention and control practices and factors associated among healthcare workers at Juba Teaching Hospital, Juba-South Sudan: a cross-sectional study.","authors":"Chubang Augustine Khamsa, John Bosco Isunju, Harriet M Babibako, Fred Nuwuha","doi":"10.1186/s41043-025-00807-4","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s41043-025-00807-4","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Hospital-acquired infections, including COVID-19 and sepsis, pose a significant threat to healthcare workers' productivity and patients' safety globally. Adhering to standard infection prevention and control (IPC) practices is crucial. This study assessed adherence levels, explored the availability of IPC supplies, and determined factors associated with adherence to IPC practices among healthcare workers at Juba Teaching Hospital.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This facility-based cross-sectional study involved 168 healthcare workers (HCWs) selected through a stratified sampling technique at Juba Teaching Hospital. HCWs were stratified by profession. The dependent variable was adherence to standard IPC practices, while the independent variables included education levels, working experience, availability of IPC supplies, IPC policies/guidelines, IPC committees, and in-service training. Data collection tools included structured questionnaires, key informants, and in-depth interview guides. Data were analyzed using Stata and presented in tables, graphs, and logistic regression tables.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Overall adherence to standard IPC practices was moderate at 62.7%. The most commonly available IPC supplies were sharp disposal containers/safety boxes (90%), hand washing facilities (90%), and waste disposal containers (90%). However, some IPC supplies were unavailable, including disinfectants, color-coded bins, placenta pits, waste pits with sharps, and waste pits for noninfectious waste. Factors significantly associated with adherence to IPC practices included sufficient IPC supplies (AOR 2.35 [1.11-4.96]), presence of an IPC committee (AOR 2.07 [1.03-3.87]). IPC in-service training (AOR 1.57 [0.76-3.25]), and IPC policies/guidelines (AOR 1.54 [0.73-3.22]) were also found to be associated.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Healthcare workers were more likely to adhere to standard IPC practices if they had sufficient IPC supplies and an IPC committee. Additionally, receiving in-service training on IPC and having IPC policies/guidelines were associated with better adherence. To increase adherence levels, the South Sudan Ministry of Health should ensure adequate IPC supplies, strengthen IPC committees, and offer IPC in-service training and policies/guidelines to healthcare workers at Juba Teaching Hospital.</p>","PeriodicalId":15969,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition","volume":"44 1","pages":"66"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2025-03-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11883947/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143573241","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Dorcas Oluwakemi Aremu, Antipov Maxim, Stephen Olaide Aremu, Damilola Esther Aremu, Yakubu Daniel Terhemen, Samuel Olusegun Itodo, Abdillahi Abdi Barkhadle
{"title":"The interplay of socio-demographic factors and disease prevalence: insights into malaria, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C in Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria.","authors":"Dorcas Oluwakemi Aremu, Antipov Maxim, Stephen Olaide Aremu, Damilola Esther Aremu, Yakubu Daniel Terhemen, Samuel Olusegun Itodo, Abdillahi Abdi Barkhadle","doi":"10.1186/s41043-025-00779-5","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s41043-025-00779-5","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Infectious diseases, including malaria, Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), and Hepatitis C virus (HCV), remain significant public health concerns in developing regions like Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Socio-demographic factors, such as gender, age, income level, and access to healthcare resources, have been shown to influence the prevalence and outcomes of these diseases. Despite their importance, there is limited research exploring the interrelationship between these infections and socio-demographic factors within this region. The study aims to investigate the prevalence of malaria, HBsAg, and HCV among patients in Lafia, Nigeria, and to examine the relationship between these infections and socio-demographic factors. Specifically, it seeks to identify correlations between demographic variables, clinical manifestations, and health behaviors, such as mosquito net usage and vaccination status.</p><p><strong>Method: </strong>A cross-sectional design was employed, involving 264 patients from Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Data were collected using structured questionnaires which were pretested in a previous study to gather demographic information, vaccination status, and clinical symptoms. Laboratory assessments confirmed the presence of malaria, HBsAg, and HCV. Statistical analysis, including correlations between socio-demographic factors and disease prevalence were analyzed, and used to identify associations between socio-demographic factors, clinical manifestations, and disease prevalence.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Significant findings include a negative correlation between male sex and malaria infection (Pearson Correlation = -0.139, p = 0.024), a positive correlation between age and HCV prevalence (Pearson Correlation = 0.218, p < 0.001), and a negative correlation between the use of mosquito nets and malaria infection (Pearson Correlation = -0.231, p < 0.001). Additionally, HBsAg-positive individuals exhibited more pronounced clinical symptoms (Pearson Correlation = 0.173, p = 0.005), while higher income levels correlated with reduced mosquito net usage (Pearson Correlation = -0.144, p = 0.020). The study underscores the role of socio-demographic factors in shaping the prevalence of malaria, HBsAg, and HCV.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This study highlights the interplay between socio-demographic factors and the prevalence of malaria, HBsAg, and HCV in Lafia, Nigeria. It underscores the importance of comprehensive public health interventions tailored to the specific needs of the population to reduce disease burden and improve health outcomes, including health education, to address socio-economic vulnerabilities and promote preventive measures such as mosquito net usage. Addressing these factors could mitigate the burden of infectious diseases in Lafia and similar regions.</p>","PeriodicalId":15969,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition","volume":"44 1","pages":"67"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2025-03-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11883923/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143573243","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Zeinab Ghorbani, Fatemeh Dashti, Sara Grafenauer, Samira Arami, Marjan Mahdavi-Roshan, Arsalan Salari
{"title":"Ultra-processed foods and coronary artery disease severity: a cross-sectional study of at-risk normal-weight and overweight patients undergoing elective angiography.","authors":"Zeinab Ghorbani, Fatemeh Dashti, Sara Grafenauer, Samira Arami, Marjan Mahdavi-Roshan, Arsalan Salari","doi":"10.1186/s41043-025-00796-4","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s41043-025-00796-4","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>There is growing interest in the connection between ultra-processed food (UPF) and cardiovascular diseases. This study explores how UPF intake relates to the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD) in at-risk patients undergoing elective angiography.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Data covering demographic, and clinical details, and dietary intakes (using a validated food frequency questionnaire) were gathered from the Nutrition Heshmat Registry (NUTHER) in Rasht, Iran. UPF consumption was evaluated using the NOVA food classification system, with the exception of core grain foods. The study comprised 1,015 participants, who were classified based on the severity of CAD using the Gensini score (severe-CAD = Gensini score ≥ 60). Logistic regression was used to analyze the odd ratio (OR) and 95%confidence interval (95%CI) for severe-CAD across UPF quartiles (percentage of energy), and for each 10% increase in UPF intake. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) regression was employed to explore nonlinear relationships between UPF and severe-CAD.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Following controlling for potential confounders, normal-weight participants in the highest quartile of UPF exhibited about 5 times greater odds of severe-CAD than those in the lowest category (OR(95%CI): 5.01 (1.89, 13.29); P-for-trend = 0.002). Overweight/obese participants in the higher UPF quartiles had approximately 2-3.5 times greater odds for severe-CAD than those in the 1st quartile (ORs (95%CIs): 3rd quartile 1.91 (1.14, 3.21); and 4th quartile: 3.53 (2.07, 5.99); P-for-trend < 0.001). Each 10% increase in daily energy intake from UPF was associated with about 1.6-2 times increased severe-CAD risk among overweight/obese and normal-weight individuals (ORs (95%CIs) of 1.64 (1.28, 2.11), and 2.24 (1.24, 4.05), respectively). RCS analysis showed an upward trend toward higher UPF intake in relation to increased risk of severe-CAD (P-for-overall-trend < 0.0001; P-for-nonlinearity = 0.005).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The findings obtained underscore a direct association between UPF and the risk of CAD progression among at-risk patients, independent of BMI. However, further prospective studies are essential to confirm these results and better understand this relationship.</p>","PeriodicalId":15969,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition","volume":"44 1","pages":"63"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2025-03-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11883926/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143567358","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Marie Michele Umulisa, Aline Umutoni Uwizera, Nnamdi Ezeanochie, Jozef Noben, Ellen Pagan Indoe, Malick Kayumba, Rosette Busasa, Grace Umutoni, Alice Mushimiyimana, Philbert Kayitare, Roselyne Ingabire, Patience Sindayigaya, Roseline Dzekem Dine
{"title":"Community members' knowledge, attitude, and practices towards Ebola virus prevention in the Western Province of Rwanda.","authors":"Marie Michele Umulisa, Aline Umutoni Uwizera, Nnamdi Ezeanochie, Jozef Noben, Ellen Pagan Indoe, Malick Kayumba, Rosette Busasa, Grace Umutoni, Alice Mushimiyimana, Philbert Kayitare, Roselyne Ingabire, Patience Sindayigaya, Roseline Dzekem Dine","doi":"10.1186/s41043-025-00741-5","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s41043-025-00741-5","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>The Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) for decades has been a public health concern in some parts of the world especially in East, Central, and West Africa. Despite investment in improving community members' health, there is regular resistance to available intervention, with little literature describing the reasons. This necessitated exploring knowledge, attitude, and practices of community members' towards the EVD prevention strategies in the Western Province of Rwanda.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Authors present qualitative data from a mixed-method survey of the UMURINZI program conducted in Rubavu and Rusizi districts of Rwanda. Respondents' were purposefully chosen for the study and verbally consented to participate. Data was mainly collected between July and August 2020 in the Rwandan native language Kinyarwanda which was later transcribed and translated into English. All quantitative data analysis of respondents' socio-demographic characteristics were performed in STATA version 25. ATLAS Ti version 5.1 was used to summarize qualitative data (Focus Group Discussions (FDGs) and In-Depth Interviews (IDIs)), using a deductive approach. Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Rwanda National Ethics Committee.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>A total of 165 participated. Among those who took part in the FGDs, n=115 (69.70%) were male and had at least secondary education n=80 (48.48%). Among the 19 IDIs respondents, n= 11 (57.89%) came from Rusizi and were mostly n=13 (68.42%) men. Majority of them n=14 (73.68%) had a bachelor degree level of education. Our study found that participants were aware of EVD and the UMURINZI program due to community-based awareness activities. Despite knowing what EVD was, some were hesitant to be vaccinated for religious or personal beliefs and unfounded rumors. Through community engagement and mobilization efforts, community members started practicing desirable behaviors towards EVD prevention.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Our study found that some respondents were aware of EVD and the UMURINZI program, and had started to adopt the positive attitudes and practices suggested by program supporters. We propose that similar initiatives; effective community engagement and mobilization be used to maximize desired behavior.</p>","PeriodicalId":15969,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition","volume":"44 1","pages":"65"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2025-03-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11884175/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143567212","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Alaa A AlMasud, Shaima A Alothman, Nada Benajiba, Seham Alqahtani, Afnan A Alatr, Anfal A Alshatowy, Ghadah E Alenezy, Ghaida M Alshahrani, Laylas A Alhussain, Noha I Alnashwan, Norah A Alshimali, Nourah A Alneghamshi, Nashmia M Aljasser, Mashael A Huwaikem
{"title":"Relationship of fat mass index and fat free mass index with body mass index and association with sleeping patterns and physical activity in Saudi young adults women.","authors":"Alaa A AlMasud, Shaima A Alothman, Nada Benajiba, Seham Alqahtani, Afnan A Alatr, Anfal A Alshatowy, Ghadah E Alenezy, Ghaida M Alshahrani, Laylas A Alhussain, Noha I Alnashwan, Norah A Alshimali, Nourah A Alneghamshi, Nashmia M Aljasser, Mashael A Huwaikem","doi":"10.1186/s41043-025-00795-5","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s41043-025-00795-5","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Aim: </strong>To analyze the association between Fat Mass Index (FMI), Free Fat Mass Index (FFMI), Free Fat Mass/Fat Mass (FFM/FM), and Body Mass Index (BMI) among young adult Saudi women and to explore how these body composition indices are associated with sleep and physical activity patterns.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A total of 1,741 university female students participated in this cross-sectional study. Body composition was measured using the InBody 270 body composition analyzer. FMI, FFMI, and FM/FFM were classified into tertiles (T1, T2, T3), with T1 classified as the lowest and T3 as the highest tertile. Sleep quality and duration were assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, while physical activity was measured using an exercise vital sign tool.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>BMI increased significantly from Tertile 1 to Tertile 3 across all groups for FMI and FFMI (p < 0.001), while a decrease in FM/FFM was observed across tertiles (p < 0.001). Conversely, FFM was highest in the third tertile of FFMI (p < 0.001). No significant associations were found between sleep duration or quality and body composition indices, even after adjusting for age and BMI. However, significant associations were observed between physical activity frequency and duration and body composition, particularly FFMI and FMI. These associations became more pronounced after adjusting for age and BMI.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The findings highlight a strong association between physical activity patterns and body composition indices, particularly FFMI and FMI, among young adult Saudi women. While sleep patterns did not show significant relationships with body composition, the results emphasize the importance of regular physical activity in maintaining healthy body composition. These insights underline the need for targeted interventions promoting physical activity to support optimal health and well-being in this population.</p>","PeriodicalId":15969,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition","volume":"44 1","pages":"64"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2025-03-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11884034/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143567344","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Breastfeeding duration and neurodevelopment: insights into autism spectrum disorders and weaning practices.","authors":"Budor H Saigh","doi":"10.1186/s41043-025-00784-8","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s41043-025-00784-8","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This paper examines the complex relationship between breastfeeding duration and the incidence of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), focusing on identifying the most beneficial weaning period and its subsequent effects on child development. Breastfeeding is widely recognized for its role in promoting early health, strengthening the immune system, and supporting neurodevelopment. However, the debate over its optimal duration persists. Integrating insights from current scientific studies with interpretations of Qur'anic teachings, this study advocates for a breastfeeding duration of 21 months. This duration balances the benefits of extended breastfeeding with potential risks associated with prolonged exposure, reflecting both ancient wisdom and contemporary evidence. Key findings suggest that breastfeeding may play a preventive role in mitigating ASD symptoms and enhancing neurodevelopment through mechanisms such as immune regulation, microbiome diversity, and hormonal pathways. These insights underline the need for further specialized research to explore the long-term impacts of breastfeeding on ASD-related outcomes.</p>","PeriodicalId":15969,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition","volume":"44 1","pages":"62"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2025-03-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11877936/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143542239","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Distribution and association of depression with tobacco consumption among middle-aged and elderly Indian population: nested multilevel modelling analysis of nationally representative cross-sectional survey.","authors":"Tanvi Kiran, Pritam Halder, Divya Sharma, Aseem Mehra, Kapil Goel, Ashish Behera","doi":"10.1186/s41043-025-00753-1","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s41043-025-00753-1","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Research on the distribution and association of depression with tobacco consumption among young population is commonly prioritised in India, while studies on tobacco use among middle-aged (45-59 years) and elderly (≥ 60 years) adults are noticeably lacking. Thus, we conducted this study with the objectives of estimating the prevalence, distribution and determining the association of depression and tobacco consumption among middle-aged and elderly Indian population; overall and stratified into age group, gender, and geographical location.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Using dataset from Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI), a bivariate analysis was conducted among middle-aged (45-59 years) and elderly (≥ 60 years) Indians to estimate the prevalence of depression and tobacco consumption. States and Union Territories were categorised as low, medium, and high as per prevalence of depression and tobacco consumption, and spatial distribution maps were created. To reduce the confounding effects of demographic & socioeconomic and health-related & behavioural covariates; propensity score matching (PSM) was conducted. Nested multilevel regression modelling was employed to explore the association between depression (outcome variable) and tobacco consumption (explanatory variable) using STATA version 17. The p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Overall, 36.78% (36.03-37.55%) participants documented using any form of tobacco; with higher consumption of smokeless tobacco (SLT) (19.88%) than smoking (SM) (13.92%). The overall prevalence of depression was 7.62% irrespective of tobacco consumption, and 8.51% among participants consuming any form of tobacco. Mizoram had the highest consumption of tobacco in any form (78.21%), whereas Madhya Pradesh recorded the highest (14.62%) depression prevalence. Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Uttarakhand had both high prevalence of depression and any form of tobacco consumption. The average estimated treatment effect (ATE) indicated a positive association both between depression and any form of tobacco consumption (p value = 0.001) and with smokeless tobacco (p value = 0.001) consumption. Participants ever consuming any form of tobacco had 28% higher odds (aOR-1.28 (1.18-1.38). The odds of having depression were higher among females (aOR = 1.28 (1.17-1.41); richest (aOR-1.48 (1.32-1.65); living alone (aOR = 1.14 (1.01-1.33). Participants with comorbidity (aOR = 1.20 (1.10-1.30) and multimorbidity (aOR = 1.24 (1.13-1.36)) had higher odds of depression.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The study has established significant positive association between depression and tobacco consumption stratified into gender and age group. Prioritisation of mental health disorders like depression and tobacco prevention and cessation programmes must be implemented with focusing on females and the middle-aged population with community awareness and","PeriodicalId":15969,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition","volume":"44 1","pages":"61"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2025-03-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11874790/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143542240","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Mohammad Ali Mohsenpoor, Karim Parastouei, Maryam Taghdir, Marzieh Akbarzadeh, Sepideh Abbaszadeh, Mohammad Ali Abyazi Heris, Mohammad Reza Mansouri Rad, Mohammad Amin Jafari, Ronak Borzooei
{"title":"The effect of chitosan supplementation on liver function, hepatic steatosis predictors, and metabolic indicators in adults with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, clinical trial.","authors":"Mohammad Ali Mohsenpoor, Karim Parastouei, Maryam Taghdir, Marzieh Akbarzadeh, Sepideh Abbaszadeh, Mohammad Ali Abyazi Heris, Mohammad Reza Mansouri Rad, Mohammad Amin Jafari, Ronak Borzooei","doi":"10.1186/s41043-025-00797-3","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s41043-025-00797-3","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a disease with high complications. An increment in dietary fiber consumption is an approach to NAFLD management, and chitosan as dietary fiber can play a role in the management of NAFLD. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of chitosan supplementation on liver function, hepatic steatosis predictors, and metabolic indices in adults with NAFLD.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Seventy-two adults with NAFLD were randomly assigned to consume either 1.5 g/day chitosan or placebo along with a low-calorie (- 500 kcal/day) diet for 8 weeks in a parallel, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, clinical trial. Participants were assessed for dietary intake, physical activity, and anthropometric indices. Blood samples were taken to measure fasting blood sugar (FBS), cholesterol, triglycerides, high- and low-density lipoprotein (HDL and LDL). Liver function indices including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) were evaluated using blood samples as the primary outcomes. Fatty liver index (FLI), hepatic steatosis index (HSI), and triglyceride-glucose index (TyG) were calculated as hepatic steatosis predictors' indices.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>After 8 weeks of study, 66 participants finished the study. In comparison with placebo, chitosan supplementation reduced weight (P = 0.041), waist circumference (P = 0.049), AST (P = 0.040), ALT (P = 0.001), and GGT (P = 0.028). Although the reduction of FBS, triglycerides, cholesterol, LDL, FLI, HSI, and TyG, and increment in HDL was higher in the chitosan group, the results were not significant (P > 0.05).</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Eight-week supplementation with 1.5 g/day chitosan along with a low-calorie diet could possibly reduce weight, waist circumference, AST, ALT, and GGT, and ameliorate NAFLD. Further investigations are recommended. Trial registration The trial was registered at IRCT.ir as IRCT20140502017522N4 (March 2023).</p>","PeriodicalId":15969,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition","volume":"44 1","pages":"60"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11872331/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143537239","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}