bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A review of ethnicity, health and nutrition-related diseases in relation to migration in the United Kingdom
Authors: Landman J , Cruickshank JK 
Published: June 2008

AbstractObjectives:To identify lessons from and gaps in research on diet-disease links among former migrants in the United Kingdom (UK).Results:Migrant status and self-identified ethnicity do not match so these terms mask differences in social, nutritional and health status within and between population groups. Some former migrants differ in causes of death from the general population, e.g.: fewer coronary heart disease deaths among Caribbean-born; fewer cancer deaths among Caribbean, South Asian- and East African-born adults. Irish- and Scottish-born have higher mortality from all causes. Experience of risk factors differ also, e.g.: higher prevalences of hypertension and diabetes in Caribbean- and South Asian-born adults than representative samples of the general population; obesity and raised waist-hip circumference ratios in South Asian, African-Caribbean and some Irish-born adults. Former migrants experience long-term disadvantage, associated with more self-defined illness and lower reported physical activity. Nutrient intake data from the few, recent, small-scale studies must be interpreted with caution due to methodological diversity. However, second generation offspring of former migrants appear to adopt British dietary patterns, increasing fat and reducing vegetable, fruit and pulse consumption compared with first generation migrants.Conclusions:There is insufficient evidence on why some former migrants but not others experience lower specific mortality than the general population. Dietary intake variations provide important clues particularly when examined by age and migration status. Majority ethnic and younger migrant groups could raise and sustain high fruit and vegetable intakes but lower proportions of fat, by adopting many dietary practices from older migrants. Objective measures of physical activity and longitudinal studies of diets among different ethnic groups are needed to explain diversity in health outcomes and provide for evidence-based action.
Nutrition and health among migrants in the Netherlands
Authors: Brussaard JH , van Erp-Baart MA , Brants HAM , Hulshof KFAM , Löwik MRH 
Published: June 2008

AbstractObjective:this paper aims to give a broad overview of published data on nutrition and health among migrants in the Netherlands, as well as data on determinants of health.Results and conclusions:Depending on the definition, 9 to 17% of the population belongs to the group ‘migrants’ and this proportion is expected to grow in the coming years. Roughly 2/3 of migrants are of the first generation and on average, they are younger than the Dutch population. Relatively few data concerning the health status of migrants are available. The diet of migrants showed both positive (macronutrients) and negative (micronutrients) differences with the general Dutch diet. The risk of overweight was high among both children and adult women, and the data suggest a higher risk for Turkish and Moroccan groups than for Dutch groups. The importance of health determinants, such as smoking, alcohol use and physical and social environment, was different for migrants than for the Dutch population; however, there were also differences between ethnic groups. The limited data on morbidity for migrants suggest higher risks than for the indigenous population. The same holds for mortality data, especially for the younger age groups. In general, the data that are available suggest that the health status of migrants was less favourable than that of the indigenous population. However, there were also differences between the various groups of migrants. The lower socio-economic position of migrant groups partly explained the differences in health status. Nevertheless, a study among Turkish people indicated that their health status was lower than that of Dutch people of comparable socio–economic status.
Food composition issues – implications for the development of food-based dietary guidelines
Authors: Leclercq Catherine , Valsta Liisa M , Turrini Aida 
Published: June 2008

AbstractSound food composition databases that are both comprehensive and representative of available foods are an essential basic tool to develop Food Based Dietary Guidelines (FBDG). The main drawbacks of current food composition databases available in the European Union are: partial coverage of foods and nutrients, variability of analytical data, lack of accuracy in the description of food items, need for harmonisation of the expression of nutrients. An inappropriate use of these databases could lead to gross errors in the assessment of the nutrient intake levels, in the identification of the major sources of a nutrient, in the comparison of data between countries and in the analysis of time trends. Inadequacy of food composition data is, in part, responsible for the failure to understand some relationships between nutrient intakes and health or disease and for difficulties in establishing quantitative dietary guidelines in terms of nutrients. Recommendations are made for the compilation of future food composition databases and tools are proposed to enhance the quality of existing data. A careful study of the food composition databases is always necessary before nutrition recommendations are given and before trends in nutrient intakes are interpreted.
Under-reporting in dietary surveys – implications for development of food-based dietary guidelines
Authors: Becker W , Welten D 
Published: June 2008

AbstractObjective:To illustrate issues related to under-reporting in dietary surveys relevant for development of food-based dietary guidelinesSetting:Food and nutrient intakes in two national dietary surveys are analysed in relation to under-reporting using the concept of cut-off values for the ratio between energy intake and basal metabolic rate as well as biochemical markers of nutritional status.Results:Subjects with an implausibly low EI/BMR ratio had dietary patterns more close to recommended levels, e.g. lower fat intake and higher fibre intake, than those with acceptable energy intakes. Intakes of micronutrients were lower. This was due to both general and selective under-reporting of foods. Under-reporting was due to less frequent consumption, larger proportion of non consumers and smaller portion sizes. Low EI/BMR ratios did not influence the characterisation of protein and micronutrient intake of low and high consumers of fruit and vegetable intake.Conclusions:Under-reporting can influence the usefulness of dietary data as a tool for developing food-based dietary guidelines, and the extent of under-reporting should be assessed using appropriate methods.
Eating patterns – temporal distribution, converging and diverging foods, meals eaten inside and outside of the home – implications for developing FBDG
Authors: Kearney JM , Hulshof KFAM , Gibney MJ 
Published: June 2008

AbstractObjective:A consideration of eating patterns in the general population is necessary when deriving food-based dietary guidelines (FBDG) as promoting the intake of one food may indirectly result in the increased consumption of another, which may not always be desirable. A number of issues that influence meal patterns such as temporal distribution of food intake (using data from the Netherlands), converging and diverging foods (using data from Ireland) and meals eaten inside and outside of the home (using data from the UK) are examined and discussed in the context of developing FBDG.Setting:Food intake databases from three EU countries: The Netherlands, Ireland and the UK.Results:The hot meal (dinner) was found to be the main contributor to the intake of energy and macro-nutrients in the Dutch population. It was also the main contributor to the intake of all micro-nutrients with the exception of calcium where the bread meal contributed a similar proportion as the hot meal to the intake of this micronutrient. Furthermore, fruit intake showed a very different temporal distribution to vegetable intake. Exploring the convergence of certain foods in the Irish population also revealed differences between fruit and vegetables. A low correlation was shown for consumers of fruit and vegetables indicating that being a high fruit consumer did not suggest being also a high vegetable consumer. An examination of where meals were consumed among British adults showed that 71% of all meals were consumed inside the home while 29% were consumed outside. 27% of food energy and 45% of alcohol energy was consumed out of home by the total population. In addition, those eating less of their foods out of home obtained a lower proportion of their food energy from fat and protein and a higher proportion from carbohydrate. A different demographic profile was associated with eating out compared to eating in, comprising more males and younger individuals.Conclusions:Information on patterns of food intake and food habits, specifically temporal distribution, the convergence and divergence of foods and foods consumed inside and outside of the home, give a culturally specific picture of food consumption practices within a population. This should enable the development of more culturally acceptable and realistic FBDG.
MTHFR gene polymorphism, homocysteine and cardiovascular disease
Authors: Cortese Claudio , Motti Corradino 
Published: June 2008

AbstractHomocysteine is an emerging new risk factor for cardiovascular disease. It is a thiol compound derived from methionine and involved in two main metabolic pathways: the cycle of activated methyl groups, requiring folate and vitamin B12 as cofactors, and the transsulfuration pathway to cystathionine and cysteine requiring vitamin B6 as cofactor. The homocysteine metabolism represents an interesting model of gene-environment interaction. Elevations in homocysteine may be caused by genetic defects in enzymes involved in its metabolism or by deficiencies in cofactor levels. A common polymorphism in the gene coding for the 5, 10-methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) (C677T, Ala → Val) is associated with a decreased activity of the enzyme due to thermolability. In case of homozygosity for the Val allele, a relative deficiency in the remethylation process of homocysteine into methionine leads to a mild-to-moderate hyperhomocysteinemia, a condition recognized as an independent risk factor for atherosclerosis. The genetic influence of the MTHFR polymorphism on homocysteine levels is attenuated in females in premenopausal age and is not significant in subjects who exhibit serum levels of folate and/or vitamin B12 above the 50thpercentile of distribution in the general population. The prevalence of the Val/Val genotype varies among different ethnic groups. It is very low in African populations, whereas in Europe and North America it ranges between 5% and 15%. In Italy an even higher prevalence has been reported in some regions. The question whether the MTHFR polymorphism might beper sean independent contributor to cardiovascular risk is debated. The interaction between this or other genetic factors and environmental/nutritional conditions (i.e. intake of vitamins such as folate) is a key determinant for homocysteine concentrations in healthy conditions as well as in some disease (i.e. in renal disorders). Another example of gene/environment interaction in the field of atherosclerosis is given by the apolipoprotein E polymorphism and its influence in response to diet. The presence of a high prevalence of risk-related allelic variants of such candidate genes within a certain population could serve to locally reinforce the recommendations concerning nutrient intake.
Inequalities in diet and physical activity in Europe
Authors: Dowler Elizabeth 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThe contribution of food, nutrition and physical activity to inequalities in health across Europe is largely unexplored. This paper summarizes cross sectional survey data on food patterns and nutrient intakes, and briefer data on physical activity, by various indicators of socio-economic status for countries across Europe. Factors are examined which underlie the outcome data seen. These include structural and material conditions and circumstances which contribute to excluding sociodemographic groups from participating in mainstream patterns of living. Trends in social and economic conditions, and their implications for nutritional and physical wellbeing are briefly outlined.
Cost effectiveness of cardiovascular disease prevention strategies: a perspective on EU food based dietary guidelines
Authors: Brunner Eric , Cohen David , Toon Lynn 
Published: June 2008

AbstractFor policymakers considering strategy options for the prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD) the distinction between effectiveness and cost effectiveness is critical. When cost limitations apply, an evaluation of cost effectiveness is essential if a rational decision is to be made. Policy changes and resource reallocation have opportunity costs, and therefore it is necessary to compare the cost of health gains achievable by means of different policies. Here the broad question is: How cost effective are diet change strategies compared to other measures aimed at reducing cardiovascular disease in EU member states?An overview of published studies of cost effectiveness in the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease was conducted. Few comprehensive studies were available.Estimated costs per life year gained were as follows: population-based healthy eating £14–560; smoking cessation £300–790; nurse screening and life style advice £900 (minimum); simvastatin (HMGCoA reductase inhibitor) £6200–11 300. Cost effectiveness is dependent on the underlying level of CVD risk in the target population, and the duration of the achieved alterations in behaviours and risk factors.The limited evidence from these studies tends to support the view that health protection strategies which promote healthy eating are likely to be more cost-effective than strategies involving modern cholesterol-lowering drugs, screening and advice in primary care, and are comparable to or less expensive per year of life saved than anti-smoking strategies. Given the considerable diversity in food habits, health care and public health systems among current and prospective EU member states, careful appraisal of the policy options within each member state is desirable to ensure that health gain is maximised. EU wide food based dietary guidelines are potentially the basis of large health gains in Europe, and cost-effectiveness studies tend to support their adoption.
The school setting: an opportunity for the implementation of dietary guidelines
Authors: Pérez-Rodrigo Carmen , Klepp Knut-Inge , Yngve Agneta , Sjöström Michael , Stockley Lynn , Aranceta Javier 
Published: June 2008

AbstractNutrition, physical activity and health related promotion programmes in schools have developed into a mature field of research over the past decades. A number of success factors have been identified and evidence-based interventions have been performed. However, the school setting as an arena for evidence-based health promotion programmes, is still not used to its full potential. Schools provide an excellent arena for reaching large segments of the population, such as young people, school staff, families and the surrounding community.There is a need for an overview regarding the current status of nutrition, physical activity, related health as well as support structures in the EU member states. Based upon such an analysis, a consensus report should be written, pointing out the major problems at hand. Self-assessment tools for national as well as for school level should be produced, in order to guide changes, but also to include an element of continuous assessment of change, for evaluation purposes.
Breastfeeding determinants and a suggested framework for action in Europe
Authors: Yngve Agneta , Sjöström Michael 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThis is a background paper for the EURODIET initiative. A number of international initiatives and documents were identified, such as the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, the International Code of Marketing of Breast Milk Substitutes and a number of consensus reports from professional groups, that propose ways forward for breastfeeding promotion. These point at a range of initiatives on different levels. The determinants for successful breastfeeding have to be identified. They can be categorised into five groups; socio-demographic, psycho-social, health care related, community- and policy attributes. A framework for future breastfeeding promoting efforts on European level is suggested, within which these determinants are considered.A common surveillance system needs to be built in Europe, where determinants of breastfeeding are included. There is also a need for a surveillance system which makes it possible to use the collected data on local level, not only on national and supranational level. Combined with a thorough review of the effectiveness of already existing breastfeeding promotion programmes, a co-ordinated EU – EFTA action plan on breastfeeding should be formulated and implemented within a few years. Urgent action could take place in parallel, especially targeting young, low-income, less educated mothers.
Analysis of patterns of food intake in nutritional epidemiology: food classification in principal components analysis and the subsequent impact on estimates for endometrial cancer
Authors: McCann Susan E , Marshall James R , Brasure John R , Graham Saxon , Freudenheim Jo L 
Published: June 2008

AbstractObjective:To assess the effect of different methods of classifying food use on principal components analysis (PCA)-derived dietary patterns, and the subsequent impact on estimation of cancer risk associated with the different patterns.Methods:Dietary data were obtained from 232 endometrial cancer cases and 639 controls (Western New York Diet Study) using a 190-item semi-quantitative food-frequency questionnaire. Dietary patterns were generated using PCA and three methods of classifying food use: 168 single foods and beverages; 56 detailed food groups, foods and beverages; and 36 less-detailed groups and single food items.Results:Classification method affected neither the number nor character of the patterns identified. However, total variance explained in food use increased as the detail included in the PCA decreased (~8%, 168 items to ~17%, 36 items). Conversely, reduced detail in PCA tended to attenuate the odds ratio (OR) associated with the healthy patterns (OR 0.55, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.35–0.84 and OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.49–1.20, 168 and 36 items, respectively) but not the high-fat patterns (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.57–1.58 and OR 0.85, 0.51–1.40, 168 and 36 items, respectively).Conclusions:Greater detail in food-use information may be desirable in determination of dietary patterns for more precise estimates of disease risk.
Estimation and validation of mercury intake associated with fish consumption in an EPIC cohort of Spain
Authors: Sanzo JM , Dorronsoro M , Amiano P , Amurrio A , Aguinagalde FX , Azpiri MA ,   EPIC Group of Spain
Published: June 2008

AbstractObjective:To estimate mercury intake due to fish consumption among the individuals from Gipuzkoa participating in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer (EPIC), and to validate the estimation of mercury exposure through diet, by measuring blood mercury level.Design and setting:The population for the EPIC Gipuzkoa cohort was recruited from 1992 to 1995. Each individual's diet was assessed regarding habitual intake over the previous year, using the diet history method. Blood samples were taken at the time of the interview. The mercury content of the fish species consumed was supplied by the Food Chemical Surveillance Programme in the Basque Country.Subjects:For the estimation, 8417 volunteers, men and women, aged 35–65 years, of the EPIC cohort; for the validation, a random sample of 120 individuals stratified by fish intake was taken.Results:The validation study confirmed the relationship between fish consumption and mercury intake, as well as between fish consumption and mercury in erythrocytes. 99.9% of individuals have intakes below 75% of the Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake (PTWI) of mercury established by the World Health Organization. But the limit dosage recommended by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, measured by the average risk index, would be exceeded often.Conclusions:No individual from the cohort would exceed the PTWI of mercury. Nevertheless, owing to the amount of fish consumed, certain individuals would have mercury intakes approaching the recommended limits. With a view to the future, we believe mercury in fish must continue to be monitored closely in order to assess the risks for the population.
The use of supermarket till receipts to determine the fat and energy intake in a UK population
Authors: Ransley Joan K , Donnelly Judith K , Khara Tanya N , Botham Helen , Arnot Heidy , Greenwood Darren C , Cade Janet E 
Published: June 2008

AbstractObjectives:To validate the use of supermarket receipts as an index of fat and energy intake in a population that buys most of its food from supermarkets.Design:Cross-sectional, prospective dietary survey – feasibility study.Setting:Households situated within a 20-mile radius of a large (Tesco) supermarket in Leeds.Subjects:Two hundred and fourteen households who spend ≥=60% of their food purse in (Tesco and other) supermarkets.Results:Mean daily household purchase of fat, energy and percentage energy from fat contained in food from supermarkets were 185 g, 19.2 MJ and 35.9%. Mean daily household intakes of fat and energy were 190 g and 20.7 MJ, and 35% of energy was derived from fat. Mean household size was 2.4 persons. The association between the amount of fat and energy purchased from supermarkets and the amount of fat and energy consumed by households was strong. 0.90 MJ (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.8–1.0) of energy were consumed for every 1 MJ purchased from supermarkets and 0.76 g (95% CI: 0.64–0.87) of fat were consumed for every 1 g of fat purchased.Conclusions:The results show a strong association between estimates of the intakes of fat and energy and percentage energy from fat using 4-day food diaries and 28 days of receipts, in populations who buy most of their food from supermarkets. They also show that the fat content of total food purchases from supermarkets is 35.9% energy from fat compared with 33% energy from fat recommended by the Department of Health. This preliminary research indicates the feasibility of and potential for utilising large quantities of readily available data generated from supermarket checkouts in dietary surveys.