bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Measuring functioning and disability in Korea: comparing general and dedicated surveys using the ICF
Authors: Kim J , Selb M , Cho Y T , Kim W H , Sabariego C 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Functioning is the third health indicator besides mortality and morbidity. Although Korea periodically collects functioning information, the functioning indicator has not been generated yet. This study aimed to evaluate how functioning information is currently collected in Korea’s health and disability surveys, especially in terms of comparability and comprehensiveness, using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) as a reference framework.

Methods
Data sources included three health and disability surveys in Korea (Population and Housing Census, Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, Survey on the Living condition of Persons with Disabilities) and two international ICF-based surveys (International Spinal Cord Injury Survey, Model Disability Survey). Functioning information was linked by category to the ICF Generic-30 Set utilizing the ICF linking rules.

Results
Three ICF categories (walking, washing oneself, dressing) were covered by all the data sources. Excluding the Census, which inherently differs from the other data sources, all the surveys addressed six ICF categories-b152 emotional functions; b280 sensation of pain; d240 handling stress and other psychological demands; d450 walking; d510 washing oneself; d540 dressing. Despite of the common ICF categories, important differences in the operationalization of questions and response options were found.

Conclusions
The overlap of content of health and disability surveys in Korea enables interoperability with other data sources. Available functioning data can be used for estimating the functioning indicator and metric, as recommended by WHO, which can serve as a valuable epidemiological indicator for complementing mortality and morbidity indicators and for estimating and monitoring rehabilitation or long-term care needs of the Korean population.

Key messages
• Korea’s health and disability surveys periodically collect functioning information at the national level, and the level of overlap across surveys enables interoperability with other data sources.
• This study can contribute to generate a Korean common health metric based on functioning that can serve as a valuable epidemiological indicator by utilizing the international standard ICF.
Quality of Life among the Sámi Population
Authors: Nilsen T , Torheim L E , Gulseth H , Tvedten H M 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The Sámi, indigenous to Northern Europe, maintain rich traditions like reindeer herding and unique languages. Continuous efforts are made to preserve their cultural identity and practices. Systemic barriers, including cultural marginalization and environmental challenges, exacerbate these inequalities, impacting their ability to preserve traditional lifestyles. It is not known, until now, how this impacts Quality of Life (QoL).

Aims
Describe QoL in the Sámi population in Norway

Methods
In 2019/20, the three northernmost Counties in Norway took part in the Norwegian Counties Public Health Surveys (NCPHS), which also has a comprehensive QoL module (comprises subjective and objective measures, Cantril scale). NCPHS is an internet-based survey. On average 25 % of the adult population was invited to participate in the NCPHS.

Results
Being Sámi was through self-identification, n = 3312. Satisfaction with Life was 7,34 versus 7,41 for the general population. For Loneliness, 15,9 % percent of the Sámi were characterized as lonely (score 6-10) versus 13,3 %, and for positive emotions, there was no difference, with a score of 6,69 for both groups. Sex, age and educational gradients are similar to the general population, for all measures. Minor differences were found according to if one lived in a Sámi-majority municipality or not.

Conclusions
Overall, being Sámi is associated with slightly lower QoL on several measures, but effect sizes are general small to insignificant. Due to lack of data on the Southern Sámi population, findings cannot be generalized to all Sámi.

Key messages
• Overall, being Sámi is associated with slightly lower QoL on several measures, but effect sizes are general small to insignificant.
• Due to lack of data on the Southern Sámi population, findings cannot be generalized to all Sámi.
Reporting social inequalities in health dashboards: data source mapping of 14 European countries
Authors: Peña S , Francis M , von Wright T , Lindell E , Kestilä L 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Monitoring health inequalities is an essential public health task. This includes reporting social inequalities using data dashboards to inform citizens and policy-makers. To date, there is a dearth of evidence on the extent of health inequality reporting and which equity dimensions are being reported in European countries. The aim of the study is to systematically map data sources and identify the equity dimensions reported in national and subnational data sources in 14 European countries.

Methods
Study design is a cross-sectional data source mapping in 14 European countries (Bulgaria, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Iceland, Malta, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain). We will conduct a survey among more than 400 collaborators of the EU-funded Joint Action to Prevent NCDs (JAPreventNCD) to identify existing population health dashboards at national and subnational levels. On a second stage, we will carry out a structured content audit to identify inequality dimensions and health indicators in each dashboard. The dashboard content audit will be done in duplicate by native speakers using keyword search and annotated navigation. Inequality dimensions will be categorised using PROGRESS-plus categories. We will pre-register the protocol in OSF prior to data collection and analysis. Data analysis will use a modified version of the template developed by the World Health Organization. Data analyses will be conducted in R. Work is under development but given the resources committed to JAPreventNCD, results will be ready by November 2024.

Key messages
• Reporting social inequalities using data dashboards to inform citizens and policy-makers is an essential public health task.
• Systematic data source mapping can be a reliable, efficient method to monitor the routine reporting of health inequalities.
Data dashboards in health inequalities monitoring - A qualitative study of subnational policy-makers
Authors: von Wright T , Peña S , Francis M , Lindell E , Kestilä L 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Despite sustained improvements in life expectancy and health during past decades, substantial health inequalities persist. Subnational jurisdictions are increasingly recognised for their pivotal role in addressing health inequalities. While data dashboards offer a promising solution for monitoring health inequalities, their utilisation in supporting local policies to reduce inequalities remains largely unexplored. This study examines the utilisation of health equity data and data dashboards (i.e. Sotkanet, Sotekuva, Tietotarjotin and Hyvinvointivajemittaristo) for health policy-making in Finnish wellbeing services counties, identifies barriers in using existing dashboards and determines the data needs for improved health inequalities monitoring.

Methods
A qualitative case study design with reflexive thematic analysis will be used. The study will be pre-registered in the OSF framework. Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with policy-makers involved in health policy development. Data analysis will involve open and axial coding to identify themes in participants’ responses. Themes will be organised into a coding framework, and the analysis will continue iteratively until data saturation is achieved. The study will include a pre-approved interview guide and peer debriefing sessions. Findings will be reported according to the Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) guidelines, with thematic diagrams illustrating key themes and sub-themes. The study is expected to reveal varying levels of utilisation of data and data dashboards among local policymakers, along with specific challenges and gaps in their current use. Policymakers may express needs for additional data or new features in dashboards to better monitor health inequalities. The study will conclude with recommendations for improvements in current data dashboards. Work is under development but by funders requirement the results will be ready by November 2024.

Key messages
• Data dashboards offer a promising solution for monitoring health inequalities, but their utilisation in supporting local policies to reduce inequalities remains largely unexplored.
• This study examines the utilisation of data dashboards for health policy-making subnationally, identifies barriers for use and determines the data needs for improved health inequalities monitoring.
Monitoring the Public Health and Safety Impact of the Groningen Gas-Extraction Crisis
Authors: Dückers M , Berends S , Boendermaker M , D’Amore C , Kanis B , Van der Molen J , Rozema M , Scherpenzeel A 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Gas extraction in the Dutch province of Groningen began in 1963 and was initially seen as an economic boon for the nation. Yet, it turned into a significant burden for the region, leading to earthquakes, damage to houses and property, complicated compensation processes, recovery, and reinforcement programs, as well as a lack of recognition. In 2016, the research group Gronings Perspectief (GP) was established with the objective of independently monitoring the public health and safety impact of the gas-extraction crisis from the residents’ perspective.

Methods
Monitoring activities take place in dialogue with sounding boards comprising residents, professionals, scientists, and local and national governments. GP employs a longitudinal mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative research methods. Representative panel surveys are conducted yearly among residents in the provinces of Groningen (twice) and Drenthe (once). Additionally, 20 in-depth interviews are carried out each year, alongside a survey among households in the reinforcement program. GP analyses the periodic health monitors conducted by municipal health authorities. All reports are publicly accessible.

Results
Since 2016, monitoring consistently points to a profound and enduring effect of housing damage on health and well-being, subjective safety, risk perceptions, trust in governments and agencies among residents. The impact of the procedural burden imposed by governments and institutions, is as significant as the effects of earthquakes and housing damage.

Conclusions
GP’s findings were included in a parliamentary inquiry, which concluded in 2023 that the interests of residents were persistently neglected in favour of economic gain. New risk reduction and reconciliation programs are introduced. Despite the recent decision to end the gas extraction, continuation of GP is needed to monitor further developments.

Key messages
• GP’s stakeholder-driven monitoring approach made the impact of the gas-extraction crisis visible.
• Enduring public health and safety risks, beyond the gas extraction, require continuing monitoring.
Did the pandemic change behaviours in Italy? An analysis on the main NCDs behavioural risk factors
Authors: Asta F , Minardi V , Contoli B , Casigliani V , Gallo R , Possenti V , Masocco M 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
The indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthy living behaviours are multiple and complex to assess. The aim of the study is to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy on: smoking, alcohol, fruit and vegetable consumption, and sedentary lifestyle, through the Italian Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (PASSI) data.

Methods
PASSI 2008-2022 data refer to a sample of 497,223 18-69-year-olds residing in Italy. For each behaviour, from the monthly prevalence data, the 2008-2022 time series was estimated with LOWESS regression and an interrupted time series (ITS) analysis was conducted, using the generalized least squares (gls) model, taking into account autocorrelation (ARMA matrix) and considering March 2020 (start of WHO-declared pandemic) as the month of ‘interruption’ of the series, to show the difference between what was observed and what was expected under the assumption that the pandemic had not happened (‘counterfactual’ scenario).

Results
In December 2022 the share of people who consume at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day is lower than the counterfactual scenario (6.7% vs 9.1%), while the share of higher-risk alcohol users is significantly higher (19.5% vs 16.9%). In contrast, the share of sedentary people (according to WHO guidelines) is significantly lower than the counterfactual (27.9% vs 31.8%). The pandemic does not seem to have had a significant impact on smoking.

Conclusions
These results show a worsening impact of the pandemic on alcohol consumption and fruit and vegetable consumption. Sedentariness shows better data at the end of 2022 and smoking remains mostly unchanged. It will be necessary to continue monitoring the impact of the pandemic over longer periods to confirm the findings.

Key messages
• Understanding changes in lifestyle indicators is critical to design ad hoc interventions to reduce the burden of noncommunicable diseases, and especially during health emergencies such as pandemics.
• Through this work it is possible to clearly observe how the pandemic has impacted lifestyle habits.
Adverse Drug Reactions to β-Lactam Antibiotics: A Portuguese Pharmacovigilance Database Analysis
Authors: Silva M , Fernandes J P , Ribeiro Parracha E , Gamboa A , Lima Alves C 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
The β-lactam antibiotics are one of the most relevant drug classes globally. They accounted for the largest share of systemic antibiotics consumption in Portugal across both community and hospital settings. Due to their significance, continuous monitoring of adverse drug reactions (ADR) associated with β-lactams is fundamental.

Aim
To analyse and characterise cases related to β-lactam antibiotics received by the Portuguese National Pharmacovigilance System.

Methods
Retrospective analysis of cases containing at least one medicinal product classified as suspect under the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) code J01C or J01D, reported to the Portuguese Pharmacovigilance System between 2014 and 2023. Characterisation of cases considered patient demographics, reported suspected medicines, MedDRA Preferred Term (PT), seriousness and type of reporter.

Results
A total of 3557 cases were identified (54.0% females; median age = 42.0 years; interquartile range = 52.2), with 95.9% originating from spontaneous reporting and 93.5% being reported by healthcare professionals. The most frequently reported medicines were those belonging to ATC J01CR. Around 70% of cases were classified as serious, with 38.7% being related to situations of disability or other criteria of greater seriousness. Most frequently reported PTs were related to skin disorders. Anaphylactic reaction was the most reported Designated Medical Event term. The PTs “Drug ineffective” and “Off label use” were reported in 5.2% and 2.4% of the cases, respectively.

Conclusions
Despite the majority of cases are serious, most of the ADR identified are related to already known hypersensitivity reactions. To improve the knowledge regarding these medicines and to generate evidence to address emerging public health issues it is of paramount importance to strength the Portuguese Pharmacovigilance System. This can be achieved through enhancing spontaneous reporting and implementing active pharmacovigilance programs.

Key messages
• Monitoring the efficacy and safety profile of β-lactams in a real-world context is crucial to mitigate the impact in public health and associated economic burden.
• Enhancing the surveillance systems improves data collection and evidence generation, supporting tailoring treatment approaches and implementation of public health policies.
Regional inequalities in waiting times: analysis of orthopedic appointments in Slovenia
Authors: Poldrugovac M , Kuhar M , Kasapinov B 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Long waiting times for healthcare services are a priority issue in the Slovenian healthcare system. Over the past decade the system for monitoring waiting times has evolved and is currently linked to the eReferral system, which allows detailed monitoring of data in particular related to secondary care services, such as outpatient specialist visits. Our aim was to explore the differences in waiting times between Slovenian regions in the case of first orthopedic outpatient visits in order to identify potential causes or contributing factors.

Methods
The analysis was based on the data from the waiting list database on 1 January 2024. The database includes information on region of residence of the patient and the region where the provider is located. Data were available on the number of persons on the waiting list and on the average expected waiting time for them. Waiting times relate to each of three urgency levels, which are indicated on the referral (very fast, fast and ordinary).

Results
Average expected waiting times for first orthopedic outpatient visits differed considerably among residents of different regions, ranging from 159 day to 265 days (60% more). The regional differences were even larger if only “very fast” and “ordinary” referrals were considered. The share of appointments in each urgency referral level also varied considerably, for example the share of patients with a “very fast” referral ranged between 15,7% and 37,6%, depending on the patient region of residence. The Pearson correlation coefficient between the region of residence of patients and the region where the provider is located was 0,78.

Conclusions
Waiting times and referral patterns for first orthopedic outpatient visits for patients from different regions vary considerably. Despite a free choice of provider and public data on expected waiting times, the differences correlate closely with the geographic distribution of providers.

Key messages
• Waiting times for outpatient visits in orthopedics differ by Slovenian region, despite free choice of provider.
• The assessment of inequalities is made more difficult by varying share of different urgency levels of referrals.
Rapid increase of multi-drug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Greece - WHONET-Greece (2020-2023)
Authors: Polemis M , Theofili E , Tryfinopoulou K 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa has been documented as a significant threat associated with adverse patient outcomes. We aimed to describe the rapid increase in the prevalence of an MDR P.aeruginosa phenotype at the national level, as detected through the Greek Electronic System for the Surveillance of Antimicrobial Resistance (WHONET-Greece).

Methods
Routine susceptibility data of 22,236 P.aeruginosa isolates of hospitalized patients in forty-five hospitals, isolated over the past four years (2020-2023) were analyzed using ‘Resistance profiles’ analysis of WHONET software(ver.2023), considering five antimicrobial groups/agents.

Results
We confirmed the rapid increase in the prevalence of a carbapenem-resistant P.aeruginosa (CRPA) phenotype resistant to all five antimicrobial groups/agents tested (carbapenems, piperacillin-tazobactam, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and aminoglycosides). The prevalence increased by 63.8% in 2023 (from 15.2% to 24.9%, 1.64-fold increase), whereas in the last 24 months of the study period a 2.13-fold increase was observed (from 11.7% to 24.9%). In parallel, the prevalence of all other CRPA profiles decreased in 2023 from 22.5% to 17%. We also examined the prevalence of this MDR phenotype in the different NUTS-1 regions of the country, which revealed that the rapid increase is mainly observed in Attika (EL3, 19/45 hospitals) and Central Greece (EL6, 8/45 hospitals) where prevalence reached 25.4% and 26.2% in the second half of 2023 respectively. Northern Greece (EL5, 15/45 hospitals) showed a steady increase over the four years (12% to 19.3%), while in the Aegean Islands/Crete region (EL4, 3/45 hospitals) the prevalence levels were stable.

Conclusions
There is an emerging multi-drug CRPA phenotype in Greece. Only with systematic, nationwide surveillance could we identify and verify such threats. The findings of this study should be used for targeted interventions and further analysis through molecular techniques.

Key messages
• The early detection of such emerging multi-drug CRPA phenotype in Greece allows for for targeted interventions and further analysis through molecular techniques.
• Systematic surveillance of antimicrobial resistance based on routine susceptibility data is a great way to identify and verify emerging public health threats.
What characterizes the eldercare debut? A registry-based study of pre-entry health care use
Authors: Alencar Siljehag P , von Berens Å , Meinow B , Lennartsson C , Agerholm J 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Timely identification of needs due to functional loss in old age is important. Policy guidelines requires local collaborative care action. Eldercare debut circumstances are poorly investigated from a collaborative perspective. This study explored the socio-demographic characteristics, functional status and patterns of health care use leading up to the first application for eldercare, and how older people’s intensity of primary care use was associated with their intensity of granted eldercare at debut.

Methods
Data on socio-demographics, functional status, and informal care in people ≥65 years (July ‘21 to June ‘22; n = 3,649) were combined with data on inpatient and outpatient care six months preceding debut in Stockholm, Sweden. Descriptive and regression statistics were used.

Results
Every second person debuted following a hospital stay and one in four had extensive functional limitations. The majority made one or two visits in primary care, but 13% had a high intensity of use and 20% made no visits at all. More than half received informal care weekly or daily. Non-use and high use of primary care were both significantly associated with increased probability of receiving high intensity of eldercare.

Conclusions and implications
The intensity of primary care use can provide an indication of people’s intensity of eldercare at debut, which is important for resource allocation. Deeper collaboration between eldercare and primary care actors can facilitate early identification of people in need of support, thereby alleviating individual suffering, enabling secondary and tertiary prevention, and optimizing the management of welfare resources.

Key messages
• The intensity of primary care use can provide an indication of people’s intensity of eldercare at debut.
• Deeper collaboration between eldercare and primary care actors can facilitate early identification of older people with social support needs.