scholarly journals Who uses probiotics and why? A survey study conducted among general gastroenterology patients

2021 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
pp. e000742
Author(s):  
Elissa Lynch ◽  
Jordan Troob ◽  
Benjamin Lebwohl ◽  
Daniel E Freedberg
Keyword(s):  
Gastrointestinal Symptom ◽  
Gastrointestinal Symptoms ◽  
Sociodemographic Factors ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Survey Study ◽  
Free Text ◽  
Academic Hospital ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Gastrointestinal Health ◽  
Paper Survey

BackgroundThe rapid growth of the probiotic industry suggests patients will continue to seek advice from gastroenterologists about probiotics. To best address patient questions and concerns, we must first understand who uses probiotics and why.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study conducted in the endoscopy suite of an academic hospital from June to October of 2019. Surveys were anonymous and contained a combination of multiple choice, free text and Likert scale questions. Participants privately completed a paper survey in English or Spanish and the results were reviewed with them by study personnel to clarify responses. Descriptive statistics were generated and multivariable logistic regression modelling was used to compare characteristics of probiotic users versus non-users.ResultsDuring the 5-month study period, 600 patients were approached and 537 (90%) agreed to participate. Among participants, 89% completed at least 24 survey items and were included in the analysis. Overall, 27% of patients reported probiotic use. Bloating, rather than diarrhoea, was the main gastrointestinal symptom associated with use of probiotics (aOR 2.59, 95% CI 1.52 to 4.44 for bloating; aOR 1.03, 95% CI 0.55 to 1.94 for diarrhoea). Frequent reasons cited for taking probiotics were the beliefs that they improved overall health and longevity (54%) and that they improved gastrointestinal symptoms (45%).ConclusionsProbiotic use is common among general gastroenterology patients, many of whom believe that probiotics confer general rather than specific gastrointestinal health benefits. Symptoms—especially bloating—and not sociodemographic factors seem to motivate probiotic use. By understanding patient expectations for probiotics, clinicians can better advise them.

Does pain sensitivity correlate with gastrointestinal symptoms in runners? An observational survey study

2021 ◽  
pp. 204946372110282
Author(s):  
Alex Ehlert ◽  
Patrick B Wilson
Keyword(s):  
Pain Sensitivity ◽  
Partial Correlation ◽  
Sleep Problems ◽  
Gastrointestinal Symptoms ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Survey Study ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Correlation Analyses ◽  
Gi Symptoms ◽  
A Minor

Objective: Heightened pain sensitivity is common in functional gut disorders, but no research has examined whether it corresponds to exercise-associated gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. We sought to explore whether scores on a questionnaire of pain sensitivity would correlate with GI symptoms during running. Design: This is a cross-sectional study. Subjects: The study involves 290 (137 male, 153 female) distance runners. Methods: Runners completed a survey inquiring about demographic, anthropometric and training information and rated GI symptoms at rest and during runs. In addition, the Pain Sensitivity Questionnaire (PSQ) was used to quantify pain sensitivity across all items (PSQ-Total) and on items typically rated as minor (PSQ-Minor). Spearman rho correlations were utilized to assess the associations between pain sensitivity and GI symptoms. Partial correlations were used to evaluate the associations after controlling for age, gender, running experience, body mass index and sleep problems. Results: PSQ scores weakly correlated with several GI symptoms at rest (rho = 0.13–0.20; p < 0.05), which remained largely intact in partial correlation analyses (partial rho = 0.12–0.18). PSQ scores weakly correlated with fullness, bloating and gas during runs (rho = 0.12–0.18; p < 0.05); fullness and bloating remained significant in the partial correlation analyses (partial rho = 0.12–0.15). These results were relatively consistent for both the PSQ-Total and PSQ-Minor. Conclusions: Although PSQ scores only weakly correlate with certain GI symptoms among runners, the effect sizes are similar to that of other predictors of GI distress. These results suggest a minor possible role of pain sensitivity in the development of certain GI symptoms in runners.

scholarly journals Self-Perceived Life Satisfaction during the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Sweden: A Cross-Sectional Study

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (12) ◽  
pp. 6234
Author(s):  
Christina Brogårdh ◽  
Catharina Sjödahl Hammarlund ◽  
Frida Eek ◽  
Kjerstin Stigmar ◽  
Ingrid Lindgren ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Life Satisfaction ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Satisfaction With Life ◽  
Sociodemographic Factors ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Sexual Life ◽  
Life Domains ◽  
Sectional Study ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Perceived Life Satisfaction

Currently, there is limited knowledge on how the Swedish strategy with more lenient public health restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced people’s life satisfaction. Here, we investigated self-reported life satisfaction during the first wave of the pandemic in Sweden, and perceived changes in life satisfaction in relation to various sociodemographic factors. A total of 1082 people (mean age 48 (SD 12.2); 82% women) responded to an online survey during autumn 2020 including the “Life Satisfaction Questionnaire-11”. A majority (69%) were satisfied with life as a whole, and with other important life domains, with the exception of contact with friends and sexual life. An equal share reported that life as a whole had either deteriorated (28%) or improved (29%). Of those that perceived a deterioration, 95% considered it to be due to the pandemic. Regarding deteriorated satisfaction with life as a whole, higher odds were found in the following groups: having no children living at home; being middle aged; having other sources of income than being employed; and having a chronic disease. The Swedish strategy might have contributed to the high proportion of satisfied people. Those who perceived a deterioration in life satisfaction may, however, need attention from Swedish Welfare Authorities.

scholarly journals Risk Factors of Inadequate Bowel Preparation for Screening Colonoscopy

2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (12) ◽  
pp. 2740
Author(s):  
Efrat L. Amitay ◽  
Tobias Niedermaier ◽  
Anton Gies ◽  
Michael Hoffmeister ◽  
Hermann Brenner
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Bowel Preparation ◽  
Sociodemographic Factors ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Screening Colonoscopy ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Factors Associated ◽  
Screening Practice ◽  
Abdominal Symptoms ◽  
Inadequate Bowel Preparation

The success of a colonoscopy in detecting and removing pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions depends heavily on the quality of bowel preparation. Despite efforts, 20–44% of colonoscopy participants have an inadequate bowel preparation. We aimed to assess and compare risk factors for inadequate bowel preparation and for the presence of advanced colorectal neoplasms in routine screening practice. In this cross-sectional study, among 8125 participants of screening colonoscopy in Germany with a comprehensive assessment of sociodemographic factors, lifestyle and medical history, we examined factors associated with inadequate bowel preparation and with findings of advanced neoplasms using adjusted log-binomial regression models. Among the identified risk factors assessed, three factors were identified that were significantly associated with inadequate bowel preparation: age ≥ 70 years (adjusted prevalence ratios, aPR, 1.50 95%CI 1.31–1.71), smoking (aPR 1.29 95%CI 1.11–1.50) and abdominal symptoms (aPR 1.14 95%CI 1.02–1.27). The same risk factors were also associated with the prevalence of advanced neoplasms in our study (aPR 1.72, 1.62 and 1.44, respectively). The risk factors associated with inadequate bowel preparation in this study were also associated with a higher risk for advanced neoplasms. Inadequate bowel preparation for colonoscopy might lead to missed colorectal cancer (CRC) precursors and the late diagnosis of CRC. People at high risk of advanced neoplasms are in particular need of enhanced bowel preparation.

scholarly journals Acceptance of a COVID-19 Vaccine in Japan during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Vaccines ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (3) ◽  
pp. 210
Author(s):  
Masaki Machida ◽  
Itaru Nakamura ◽  
Takako Kojima ◽  
Reiko Saito ◽  
Tomoki Nakaya ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Low Income ◽  
Multiple Logistic Regression Analysis ◽  
Sociodemographic Factors ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Internet Survey ◽  
Protective Measure ◽  
Attitudes And Beliefs ◽  
Perceived Effectiveness ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Vaccine Acceptance

Vaccination could be a key protective measure against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and it is important to understand the acceptability of the COVID-19 vaccine among the general public. However, there is no study on the acceptance of a COVID-19 vaccine in Japan. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and hesitancy situation in Japan and assess the factors associated with such issues. This was a cross-sectional study based on an internet survey completed by 2956 people. Participants were asked to indicate how likely they were to get vaccinated for COVID-19. In addition, the participants responded to questions regarding sociodemographic factors, attitudes, and beliefs regarding COVID-19 infection and vaccination. The proportion of participants with a high likelihood of getting a COVID-19 vaccine was 62.1%. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that vaccine acceptance was lower among several sociodemographic groups, such as women, adults aged 20–49 years, and those with a low-income level. Several psychological factors, especially the perceived effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine, and willingness to protect others by getting oneself vaccinated, were associated with vaccine acceptance. Our results indicate that the perceived effectiveness of the vaccine and willingness to protect others may play an important role in the acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine.

scholarly journals Impact of Coffee/Green Tea/Soft Drink Consumption on the Risk of Hyperuricemia: A Cross-Sectional Study

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (14) ◽  
pp. 7299
Author(s):  
Joong Seob Lee ◽  
Tae Jun Kim ◽  
Sung Kwang Hong ◽  
Chanyang Min ◽  
Dae Myoung Yoo ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Green Tea ◽  
Reference Group ◽  
Smoking Status ◽  
Soft Drink ◽  
Sociodemographic Factors ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Sectional Study ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Soft Drink Consumption ◽  
Increased Risk

This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the association between hyperuricemia and the frequency of coffee, tea, and soft drink consumption, based on data from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES) (2004–2016). We used the KoGES health examinee data, obtained from urban residents aged ≥ 40 years. Information on the participants’ medical history, nutrition (total calorie, protein, fat, and carbohydrate intake), frequency of alcohol consumption, smoking status, household income, and frequency of coffee/green tea/soft drink intake was collected. A logistic regression model was used to analyze the data. Subgroup analyses were performed according to the participant’s age and sex. Among 173,209 participants, there were 11,750 and 156,002 individuals with hyperuricemia and non-hyperuricemia controls, respectively. In an adjusted model, frequent coffee and green tea consumption did not increase the risk of hyperuricemia, compared to the “no intake” reference group. However, an adjusted odds ratio of hyperuricemia was 1.23 (95% confidence interval, 1.11–1.35, p < 0.001) for participants who reported consuming soft drinks ≥ 3 times per day, compared to the respective “no drink” reference group. Even after adjusting for nutritional and sociodemographic factors, frequent soft drink intake was associated with an increased risk of hyperuricemia. Meanwhile, neither coffee nor green tea intake was associated with an increased risk of hyperuricemia.

The influence of prescriber and patient gender on the prescription of benzodiazepines: results from the Florida Medicaid Dataset

CNS Spectrums ◽  
2021 ◽  
pp. 1-5
Author(s):  
Leanna M. W. Lui ◽  
Yena Lee ◽  
Orly Lipsitz ◽  
Nelson B. Rodrigues ◽  
Hartej Gill ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
The United States ◽  
Sociodemographic Factors ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Assistance Program ◽  
Patient Gender ◽  
Prescription Rates ◽  
Male Patients ◽  
Using Data ◽  
Main Effects

Abstract Background Benzodiazepine (BZD) prescription rates have increased over the past decade in the United States. Available literature indicates that sociodemographic factors may influence diagnostic patterns and/or prescription behaviour. Herein, the aim of this study is to determine whether the gender of the prescriber and/or patient influences BZD prescription. Methods Cross-sectional study using data from the Florida Medicaid Managed Medical Assistance Program from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018. Eligible recipients ages 18 to 64, inclusive, enrolled in the Florida Medicaid plan for at least 1 day, and were dually eligible. Recipients either had a serious mental illness (SMI), or non-SMI and anxiety. Results Total 125 463 cases were identified (i.e., received BZD or non-BZD prescription). Main effect of patient and prescriber gender was significant F(1, 125 459) = 0.105, P = 0 .745, partial η2 < 0.001. Relative risk (RR) of male prescribers prescribing a BZD compared to female prescribers was 1.540, 95% confidence intervals (CI) [1.513, 1.567], whereas the RR of male patients being prescribed a BZD compared to female patients was 1.16, 95% CI [1.14, 1.18]. Main effects of patient and prescriber gender were statistically significant F(1, 125 459) = 188.232, P < 0.001, partial η2 = 0.001 and F(1, 125 459) = 349.704, P < 0.001, partial η2 = 0.013, respectively. Conclusions Male prescribers are more likely to prescribe BZDs, and male patients are more likely to receive BZDs. Further studies are required to characterize factors that influence this gender-by-gender interaction.

scholarly journals Patterns of Change in Dietary Habits and Physical Activity during Lockdown in Spain Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic

Nutrients ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (2) ◽  
pp. 300
Author(s):  
Carmen Pérez-Rodrigo ◽  
Marta Gianzo Citores ◽  
Gotzone Hervás Bárbara ◽  
Fátima Ruiz-Litago ◽  
Luis Casis Sáenz ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Dietary Habits ◽  
Eating Habits ◽  
Health Impact ◽  
Sociodemographic Factors ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Dietary Change ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Supplement Use ◽  
Active Cluster

Background: Lockdown due to COVID-19 influenced food habits and lifestyles with potential negative health impact. This study aims to identify patterns of change in eating habits and physical activity during COVID-19 lockdown in Spain and to identify associations with sociodemographic factors and usual habits. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 1155 adults recruited online to answer a 10-section questionnaire. The protocol assessed usual diet by means of a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire, usual physical activity (PA) and supplement use, dietary changes, sedentary time, PA, exposure to sunlight, sleep quality, and smoking during confinement. Patterns of dietary change were identified by factor analysis. Factor scores were included in cluster analysis together with change in PA. Results: Six patterns of dietary change were identified that together with PA changes during lockdown defined three clusters of lifestyle change: a cluster less active, a more active cluster, and a third cluster as active as usual. People who were usually less active were more likely to be classified in the cluster that increased physical activity in confinement. Scores of the Healthy Mediterranean-Style dietary pattern were higher in this group. Conclusions: Different patterns of change in lifestyles in confinement suggest the need to tailor support and advice to different population groups.

scholarly journals Sociodemographic factors and health conditions associated with the resilience of people with chronic diseases: a cross sectional study

2016 ◽  
Vol 24 (0) ◽  
Author(s):  
Julia Estela Willrich Böell ◽  
Denise Maria Guerreiro Vieira da Silva ◽  
Kathleen Mary Hegadoren
Keyword(s):  
Diabetes Mellitus ◽  
Type 2 Diabetes ◽  
Chronic Kidney Disease ◽  
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus ◽  
Kidney Disease ◽  
Sociodemographic Factors ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Study Participants

ABSTRACT Objective: to investigate the association between resilience and sociodemographic variables and the health of people with chronic kidney disease and / or type 2 diabetes mellitus. Method: a cross-sectional observational study performed with 603 people with chronic kidney disease and / or type 2 diabetes mellitus. A tool to collect socio-demographic and health data and the Resilience Scale developed by Connor and Davidson were applied. A descriptive and multivariate analysis was performed. Results: the study participants had on average 61 years old (SD= 13.2), with a stable union (52.24%), religion (96.7%), retired (49.09%), with primary education (65%) and income up to three minimum wages. Participants with kidney disease showed less resilience than people with diabetes. Conclusion: the type of chronic illness, disease duration, body mass index and religious beliefs influenced the resilience of the study participants.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document