scholarly journals Regional variations and prevalence of psoriasis in Germany from 2010 to 2017: a cross-sectional, spatio-epidemiological study on ambulatory claims data

BMJ Open ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (11) ◽  
pp. e047806
Author(s):  
Valerie Andrees ◽  
Sandra Wolf ◽  
Matthias Augustin ◽  
Nicole Mohr ◽  
Jobst Augustin

ObjectivesGlobal prevalence rates of psoriasis differ significantly, with lowest rates in the equator region and increasing tendencies towards the north but also differences within-country. Information on regional variations in Germany is missing. This study aims to analyse the change of psoriasis prevalence in Germany over time and to detect regional variations.DesignCross sectional, spatio-epidemiological study on regional psoriasis prevalence in Germany.SettingClaims data study based on nationwide outpatient billing data on county level.MethodsAnalyses based on outpatient billing data for 2010–2017 derived from all people insured in statutory health insurances (about 72.8 million). We performed descriptive spatio-temporal analyses of prevalence rates using probability mapping and statistical smoothing methods, identified spatial clusters and examined a north-south gradient using spatial statistics.ResultsThe prevalence increased from 147.4 per 10 000 in 2010 to 173.5 in 2017. In 2017, counties’ prevalence rates ranged between 93.8 and 340.9. Decreased rates occurred mainly in southern counties, increased rates in northern and eastern counties. Clusters of low rates occur in southern and south-western Germany, clusters of high rates in the north and north-east. The correlation between counties’ latitudes and their prevalence rates was high with Pearson’s r=0.65 (p<0.05).ConclusionIncreased prevalence of psoriasis over time and marked regional variations in Germany were observed which need further investigation.

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rabbanie Tariq Wani ◽  
Imrose Rashid

Abstract Background: Gaming disorders have increased over time due to easy availability of online gaming. The aim of this study is to determine the factors influencing the gaming disorders. Methods: An online questionnaire was circulated on gaming platforms for the assessment as per IGD20 & DSM5 criteria. Results: A significant correlation was found between duration of play and gaming disorders (r= 0.131, p<0.05). The scores were concurrent as per IGD20 and DSM5 criteria. Conclusion: Undiagnosed gaming disorder among gamers needs to be addressed. Duration of playing of games also needs to be checked inorder to reduce the prevalence of gaming disorders.


1995 ◽  
Vol 166 (4) ◽  
pp. 462-471 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eric Fombonne

BackgroundThis paper examines the evidence that rates of anorexia nervosa have increased over time.MethodEpidemiological studies that have provided time trends in incidence rates in specific countries or psychiatric registers and prevalence surveys were reviewed to assess whether or not prevalence estimates are higher in the most recent studies.ResultsEstimated trends in incidence rates showed an increase but no study ruled out plausible alternative explanations. Studies showing no upward trend were as numerous and were generally based on larger samples. Analysis of 29 cross-sectional surveys conducted over the last 25 years indicated that the median prevalence rate was 1.3 per 1000 females. There was no indication that more recent surveys yielded higher prevalence rates.ConclusionAnorexia nervosa remains a rare disorder and there is no evidence of a secular increase in its incidence.


2020 ◽  
Vol 14 (12) ◽  
pp. e0008902
Author(s):  
Yaw Ampem Amoako ◽  
Richard Odame Phillips ◽  
Joshua Arthur ◽  
Mark Ayaaba Abugri ◽  
Emmanuel Akowuah ◽  
...  

Background There is a dearth of data on scabies from Ghana. In September 2019, local health authorities in the East Mamprusi district of northern Ghana received reports of scabies from many parts of the district. Due to on-going reports of more cases, an assessment team visited the communities to assess the effect of the earlier individual treatment on the outbreak. The assessment team furthermore aimed to contribute to the data on scabies burden in Ghana and to demonstrate the use of the International Alliance for the Control of Scabies (IACS) diagnostic tool in a field survey in a resource limited setting. Methodology/Principal findings This was a cross sectional study. Demographic information and medical history was collected on all participants using a REDCap questionnaire. A standardised skin examination of exposed regions of the body was performed on all participants. Scabies was diagnosed based on the criteria of the International Alliance for the Control of Scabies (IACS). Participants were mostly female (61.5%) and had a median age of 18.8 years (IQR 13–25). Two hundred out of 283 (71%) of participants had scabies with most (47%) presenting with moderate disease. Impetigo was found in 22% of participants with scabies and 10.8% of those without scabies [RR 2.27 (95% CI 1.21–4.27)]. 119 participants who received scabies treatment in the past months still had clinical evidence of the disease. 97% of participants reported a recent scabies contact. Scabies was commoner in participants ≤16 years compared to those >16 years [RR 3.06 (95% CI 1.73–5.45)]. Conclusion/Significance The prevalence of scabies was extremely high. The lack of a systematic approach to scabies treatment led to recurrence and ongoing community spread. The IACS criteria was useful in this outbreak assessment in Ghana. Alternative strategies such as Mass drug administration may be required to contain outbreaks early in such settings.


2020 ◽  
Vol 134 (1) ◽  
pp. 63-72
Author(s):  
Valerie Corris ◽  
Emily Dormer ◽  
Andrea Brown ◽  
Paula Whitty ◽  
Paul Collingwood ◽  
...  

Abstract Background The North of England, particularly the North East (NE), has worse health (e.g. 2 years lower life expectancy) and higher health inequalities compared to the rest of England. Sources of data We explore this over time drawing on publicly available data. Areas of agreement and controversy Whilst overall health is improving, within-regional health inequalities are getting worse and the gap between the NE and other regions (particularly the South of England) is worsening. The gap in life expectancy is widening with substantial variation between deprived and affluent areas within the NE. Those living in the NE are more likely to have a shorter lifespan and to spend a larger proportion of their shorter lives in poor health, as well as being more likely to die prematurely from preventable diseases. Growing points We highlight wide, and in some cases increasing, inequalities in health outcomes between the NE and the rest of England. This health disadvantage and the north-south health divide are recognized; despite this, the situation appears to be worsening over the time. Areas timely for developing research Research to understand and reduce health inequalities is needed particularly in the NE of England where reductions could have enhanced the impact.


BMJ Open ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (6) ◽  
pp. e027273 ◽  
Author(s):  
Emmanuel O Adewuyi ◽  
Asa Auta ◽  
Vishnu Khanal ◽  
Samson J Tapshak ◽  
Yun Zhao

ObjectiveTo investigate the prevalence and factors associated with caesarean delivery in Nigeria.DesignThis is a secondary analysis of the nationally representative 2013 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) data. We carried out frequency tabulation, χ2test, simple logistic regression and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses to achieve the study objective.SettingNigeria.ParticipantsA total of 31 171 most recent live deliveries for women aged 15–49 years (mother–child pair) in the 5 years preceding the 2013 NDHS was included in this study.Outcome measureCaesarean mode of delivery.ResultsThe prevalence of caesarean section (CS) was 2.1% (95% CI 1.8 to 2.3) in Nigeria. At the region level, the South-West had the highest prevalence of 4.7%. Factors associated with increased odds of CS were urban residence (adjusted OR (AOR): 1.51, 95% CI 1.15 to 1.97), maternal age ≥35 years (AOR: 2.12, 95% CI 1.08 to 4.11), large birth size (AOR: 1.39, 95% CI 1.10 to 1.74) and multiple births (AOR: 4.96, 95% CI 2.84 to 8.62). Greater odds of CS were equally associated with maternal obesity (AOR: 3.16, 95% CI 2.30 to 4.32), Christianity (AOR: 2.06, 95% CI 1.58 to 2.68), birth order of one (AOR: 3.86, 95% CI 2.66 to 5.56), husband’s secondary/higher education level (AOR: 2.07, 95% CI 1.29 to 3.33), health insurance coverage (AOR: 2.01, 95% CI 1.37 to 2.95) and ≥4 antenatal visits (AOR: 2.84, 95% CI 1.56 to 5.17).ConclusionsThe prevalence of CS was low, indicating unmet needs in the use of caesarean delivery in Nigeria. Rural–urban, regional and socioeconomic differences were observed, suggesting inequitable access to the obstetric surgery. Intervention efforts need to prioritise women living in rural areas, the North-East and the North-West regions, as well as women of the Islamic faith.


2015 ◽  
Vol 30 (6) ◽  
pp. 553-559 ◽  
Author(s):  
Annelies De Wulf ◽  
Adam R. Aluisio ◽  
Dana Muhlfelder ◽  
Christina Bloem

AbstractIntroductionThe North East Department is a resource-limited region of Haiti. Health care is provided by hospitals and community clinics, with no formal Emergency Medical System and undefined emergency services. As a paucity of information exists on available emergency services in the North East Department of Haiti, the objective of this study was to assess systematically the existing emergency care resources in the region.MethodsThis cross-sectional observational study was carried out at all Ministry of Public Health and Population (MSPP)-affiliated hospitals in the North East Department and all clinics within the Fort Liberté district. A modified version of the World Health Organization (WHO) Tool for Situational Analysis to Assess Emergency and Essential Surgical Care and Generic Essential Emergency Equipment Lists were completed for each facility.ResultsThree MSPP hospitals and five clinics were assessed. Among hospitals, all had a designated emergency ward with 24 hour staffing by a medical doctor. All hospitals had electricity with backup generators and access to running water; however, none had potable water. All hospitals had x-ray and ultrasound capabilities. No computed tomography scanners existed in the region. Invasive airway equipment and associated medications were not present consistently in the hospitals’ emergency care areas, but they were available in the operating rooms. Pulse oximetry was unavailable uniformly. One hospital had intermittently functioning defibrillation equipment, and two hospitals had epinephrine. Basic supplies for managing obstetrical and traumatic emergencies were available at all hospitals. Surgical services were accessible at two hospitals. No critical care services were available in the region. Clinics varied widely in terms of equipment availability. They uniformly had limited emergency medical equipment. The clinics also had inconsistent access to basic assessment tools (sphygmomanometers 20% and stethoscopes 60%). A protocol for transferring patients requiring a higher level of care was present in most (80%) clinics and one of the hospitals. However, no facility had a written protocol for transferring patients to other facilities. One hospital reported intermittent access to an ambulance for transfers.ConclusionsDeficits in the supply of emergency equipment and limited protocols for inter-facility transfers exist in North East Department of Haiti. These essential areas represent appropriate targets for interventions aimed at improving access to emergency care within the North East region of Haiti.De WulfA, AluisioAR, MuhlfelderD, BloemC. Emergency care capabilities in North East Haiti: a cross-sectional observational study. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2015;30(6):553–559.


2021 ◽  
pp. 105477382110339
Author(s):  
Patimah Abdul Wahab ◽  
Dariah Mohd Yusoff ◽  
Azidah Abdul Kadir ◽  
Siti Hawa Ali ◽  
Lee Yeong Yeh

This study aimed to determine the prevalence, symptoms, and associated factors of chronic constipation among older adults in the North-East of Peninsular Malaysia. A cross-sectional study was conducted among older patients from four health clinics. A total of 400 older patients participated, with a mean age of 68.7 ( SD = 6.4) years. The prevalence of chronic constipation was 14.8%. The highest symptom reported was the inability to pass stool (98.3%). Chronic constipation was significantly associated with older age (OR = 2.97; 95% CI [1.17, 7.54]; p = .022), inadequate plain water intake per day (OR = 2.13; 95% CI [1.13, 4.02]; p = .020), hypertension (OR = 2.22; 95% CI [1.07, 4.61]; p = .033), and hyperlipidemia (OR = 2.52; 95% CI [1.24, 5.11]; p = .010). Identification of chronic constipation should be done as part of routine clinic visits, especially for older patients with cardiovascular disease.


Agriculture ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (7) ◽  
pp. 652
Author(s):  
Małgorzata Bieńkowska ◽  
Aleksandra Splitt ◽  
Paweł Węgrzynowicz ◽  
Robert Maciorowski

Socio-cultural research might address anthropocentric reasons for honeybee (Apis mellifera) conservation. In some regions, particular honeybee subspecies are considered to be native; A. mellifera mellifera (“dark bee”) in the north-east and A. mellifera carnica in the Island Beskids in Poland. Additionally, A. mellifera caucasia (often incorrectly called A. mellifera caucasica) and Buckfast are reported across Poland. In order to verify the actual choice of beekeepers, a survey on honeybee subspecies kept in apiaries was conducted annually from 1980 to 2018. This is a way to verify if conservation management towards the dark bee influenced its maintenance at a sufficient level for their restoration. The analysis revealed that Polish beekeepers know what is “buzzing” in their hives, and the awareness of which subspecies/types of honeybee they maintain has grown through the years. Initially, they kept up to four different subspecies per apiary, but now most have only one (maximum of two). Currently, Polish apiaries approach a homogeneous share with the exclusive presence of A. mellifera carnica subspecies. The popularity of indigenous A. mellifera mellifera has declined over time and is low now. It seems that new solutions should be considered to increase the effectiveness of dark European bee conservation management efforts.


PeerJ ◽  
2016 ◽  
Vol 4 ◽  
pp. e2006
Author(s):  
Wendy Funston ◽  
Simon J. Howard

Objectives.The primary objective of this study was to assess the rules governing secondary school pupils’ carriage of inhalers for emergency treatment of asthma in the North East of England.Design.This study was based upon a postal questionnaire survey.Setting.The setting for this study was mainstream free-to-attend secondary schools which admit 16 year old pupils within the 12 Local Authority areas which make up the North East of England.Participants.All 153 schools meeting the inclusion criteria were invited to participate in the study, of which 106 (69%) took part.Main Outcome Measures.Our three main outcome measures were: whether pupils are permitted to carry inhalers on their person while at school; whether advance permission is required for pupils to carry inhalers, and from whom; and whether the school has an emergency ‘standby’ salbutamol inhaler for use in asthma emergencies, as permitted since October 2014 under recent amendments to The Human Medicines Regulations 2012.Results.Of 98 schools submitting valid responses to the question, 99% (n= 97) permitted pupils to carry inhalers on their person while at school; the remaining school stored pupils’ inhalers in a central location within the school. A total of 22% of included schools (n= 22) required parental permission before pupils were permitted to carry inhalers. Of 102 schools submitting valid responses to the question, 44% (n= 45) had purchased a ‘standby’ salbutamol inhaler for use in asthma emergencies.Conclusions.Most secondary schools in North East England permit pupils to carry inhalers on their person. The requirement in a minority of schools for parental permission to be given possibly contravenes the standard ethical practices in clinical medicine for children of this age. Only a minority of schools hold a ‘standby’ salbutamol inhaler for use in asthma emergencies. Wider availability may improve outcomes for asthma emergencies occurring in schools.


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