Epidemiology and Health

Original Articles

Income-based disparities in the risk of distant-stage cervical cancer and 5-year mortality after the introduction of a National Cancer Screening Program in Korea: Erdenetuya Bolormaa, Seung-Ah Choe, Mia Son, Myung Ki, Domyung Paek; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022066. Published online August 11, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022066

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
This study assessed the socioeconomic gradient in the risk of distant-stage cervical cancer (CC) at presentation and 5-year mortality for new CC patients after the introduction of a national Cancer Screening Program (NCSP) in Korea.
METHODS
All new CC cases from 2007 to 2017 were retrieved from the Korea Central Cancer Registry database linked with the National Health Information Database of the National Health Insurance Service. The age-standardized cumulative incidence of CC, adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of distant metastasis at presentation, and adjusted all-cause mortality hazard ratios (HRs) within 5 years post-diagnosis were assessed according to the income gradient.
RESULTS
The 11-year age-standardized cumulative incidence of CC ranged from 48.9 to 381.5 per 100,000 women, with the richest quintile having the highest incidence. Of 31,391 new cases, 8.6% had distant metastasis on presentation, which was most frequent among Medical Aid beneficiaries (9.9%). Distant-stage CC was more likely when the income level was lower (OR, 1.46; 95% confidence interval [CI]), 1.28 to 1.67 for the lowest compared to the richest) and among Medical Aid beneficiaries (OR, 1.50; 95% CI, 1.24 to 1.82). The 5-year mortality was greater in the lower-income quintiles and Medical Aid beneficiaries than in the richest quintile.
CONCLUSIONS
The incidence of CC was higher in the richest quintile than in the lower income quintiles, while the risk of distant-stage CC and mortality was higher for women in lower income quintiles in the context of the NCSP. A more focused approach is needed to further alleviate disparities in the timely diagnosis and treatment of CC.; Summary

Korean summary
새로이 자궁경부암을 진단받은 여성에서 소득수준에 따른 진단시 원격 전이가 있을 위험도와 진단 이후 5년 사망위험도를 연령과 체질량 지수등의 개인 수준의 위험 요인을 보정하여 구했다. 소득 수준이 낮을수록, 의료급여 환자일수록 진단시 원격 전이가 있을 위험과 5년 내 사망 위험이 높은 것으로 나타났다. 자궁경부암에 대한 전국민 대상 선별 검사가 있지만 여전히 소득 수준에 따른 자궁경부암의 적시 진단과 진단 후 생존의 불평등이 남아 있으며 이에 대한 추가 정책이 필요하다.

Key Message
This study adds empirical evidence for an income-based disparity in the cancer stage at presentation and five-year survival among cervical cancer patients even in the presence of a universal screening program.

Physical and mental health characteristics related to trust in and intention to receive COVID-19 vaccination: results from a Korean community-based longitudinal study: Ye Jin Jeon, Youngrong Lee, Ji Su Yang, Young Su Park, Sun Jae Jung; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022064. Published online August 3, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022064

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
The aim of this study was to explore factors affecting attitudes toward coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination, including socio-demographic characteristics and mental health status during the pandemic.
METHODS
This study analyzed responses from 1,768 participants who were originally included in a community cohort study and responded to 3 online surveys related to COVID-19 (March 2020 to March 2021). The k-means method was used to cluster trust in and intention to receive COVID-19 vaccination. Baseline (2013-2018) socio-demographic characteristics, physical health status, and depressive symptoms were analyzed as exposure variables, and current mental health status was included in the analyses.
RESULTS
Almost half of all participants were classified into the moderate trust and high intention cluster (n=838, 47.4%); those with high trust and high intention accounted only for 16.9%. They tended to be older, had high-income levels, and engaged in regular physical activity at baseline (p<0.05), and their sleep quality and psychological resilience were relatively high compared to other groups.
CONCLUSIONS
Our results suggest that more efforts are required to enhance the perceived need for and trust in COVID-19 vaccination.; Summary

Korean summary
•본 연구는 코로나19 관련 온라인, 모바일 설문조사에 응답한 1,768명을 대상으로 코로나19 유행 동안의 정신건강 상태와 백신 접종에 대한 태도 (백신에 대한 믿음, 백신에 대한 접종 의사) 사이의 관련성을 파악하고자 하였다. •연구결과 우울, 불안, 외로움, 회복탄력성 등과 같은 정신건강 상태가 나쁜 사람은 백신에 대한 접종 의사가 높을 오즈가 그렇지 않은 사람에 비해 높았으며, 이는 통계적으로 유의하였다.

Key Message
In this community-based study including 1,768 participants who responded online survey related to COVID-19, we investigate the relationship between mental health during the pandemic and attitude toward COVID-19 vaccine (trust and intention). Each of the mental symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and loneliness, was significantly associated with higher intention to COVID-19 vaccine. Our results suggest that more efforts are required to enhance the perceived need for and trust in COVID-19 vaccination.

Positive association of unhealthy plant-based diets with the incidence of abdominal obesity in Korea: a comparison of baseline, most recent, and cumulative average diets: Sukyoung Jung, Sohyun Park; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022063. Published online August 2, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022063

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Different approaches for analyzing repeated dietary measurements may yield differences in the magnitude and interpretation of findings. We aimed to compare 3 dietary measurements (baseline, most recent, and cumulative average) in terms of the association between plant-based diet indices (PDIs) and incident abdominal obesity in Korean adults aged 40-69 years.
METHODS
This study included 6,054 participants (54% women) free of abdominal obesity (defined as waist circumference ≥90 cm for men and ≥85 cm for women) at baseline. As exposures, baseline, most recent, and cumulative average measurements for PDI, healthy-PDI (hPDI), and unhealthy-PDI (uPDI) were created. A Cox proportional-hazard model was used to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) for abdominal obesity.
RESULTS
During 45,818 person-years of follow-up (median, 9 years), we identified 1,778 incident cases of abdominal obesity. In the multivariable-adjusted analysis, a higher uPDI was associated with a higher risk of abdominal obesity in both total and stratified analyses. The findings were consistent across all approaches (Q5 vs. Q1: HRbaseline=1.70; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.46 to 1.98; HRmost recent=1.52; 95% CI, 1.30 to 1.78; HRcumulative average=1.76; 95% CI, 1.51 to 2.06 in the total set). PDI showed no meaningful association with abdominal obesity risk in any analyses. hPDIaverage had a suggestive inverse association with abdominal obesity risk in men, and hPDIbaseline had a positive association with abdominal obesity risk in women.
CONCLUSIONS
Greater adherence to unhealthy plant-based diets may increase the risk of developing abdominal obesity in Korean adults. The findings were generally consistent across all approaches.; Summary

Korean summary
본 연구는 한국인 유전체역학조사사업의 안성안산코호트 조사에 참여한 40-69세 한국 성인 6,054명을 대상으로 식물성 기반의 식이 지수와 복부비만 간 연관성이 식이 노출 기간(기반, 최근, 누적 노출)에 따라 어떻게 다른지 비교 분석하였다. 건강하지 않은 식물성 기반의 식이 지수 점수가 높을수록 복부비만 발생 위험이 증가하였고, 식이 노출 기간에 관계없이 일관된 결과를 보였다. 식물성 기반의 식이가 반드시 건강에 유익한 것은 아니며, 정제된 곡물, 탄산음료, 사탕 등 간식류를 많이 먹는 식이 패턴은 식물성 기반 식이라 할지라도 복부비만 위험을 증가시킬 수 있으므로 주의가 필요하다.

Key Message
Unhealthy plant-based diets, including refined grains, sugar-sweetened beverages, sweets and desserts, and salty plant foods, can have a negative effect on abdominal obesity in Korean adults regardless of its exposure duration.

The influence of the dietary intake of vitamin C and vitamin E on the risk of gastric intestinal metaplasia in a cohort of Koreans: Sung Keun Park, Yeongu Chung, Chang-Mo Oh, Jae-Hong Ryoo, Ju Young Jung; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022062. Published online July 29, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022062

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Studies have suggested that the dietary intake of antioxidant vitamins, such as vitamin C and vitamin E, has a potential role in inhibiting gastric carcinogenesis. The present study investigated the effect of antioxidant vitamins on the incidence of gastric intestinal metaplasia (GIM).
METHODS
This study included 67,657 Koreans free of GIM who periodically underwent health check-ups. Dietary intake was assessed by a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire based on the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Participants were categorized into 4 groups by quartiles of dietary vitamin C and vitamin E intake. The Cox proportional hazard assumption was used to determine the multivariable hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for GIM.
RESULTS
The third and fourth quartiles of vitamin C intake had a lower risk of GIM than the first quartile (multivariable-adjusted HR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.88 to 1.03 in the second quartile, HR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.81 to 0.97 in the third quartile, and HR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.76 to 0.95 in the fourth quartile). Vitamin E intake greater than the second quartile level was significantly associated with a lower risk of GIM than the first quartile (multivariable-adjusted HR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.82 to 0.97 in the second quartile, HR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.82 to 0.99 in the third quartile, and HR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.74 to 0.94 in the fourth quartile). This association was observed only in the subgroup analysis for men.
CONCLUSIONS
Higher dietary intake of vitamin C and vitamin E was associated with a lower risk of GIM.; Summary

Korean summary
본 연구에서는 6만명 이상의 한국인을 대상으로 비타민 C와 비타민 E의 섭취량과 장기적인 위 장상피화생 (GIM) 발생 위험도의 상관 관계를 연구했다. 우리는 비타민 C와 E 섭취량이 많은 근로 연령대의 한국인에서 낮은 위 장상피화생 발생 위험을 확인했다. 이 연관성은 여성보다 남성에서 더 분명하게 나타났다.

Key Message
1. This study investigated the long-term effect of vitamin C and vitamin E intake on the longitudinal risk of GIM in more than 60,000 Koreans 2. We found increased intake of Vitamin C/E is associated with lower incidental risk of GIM in working aged Korean. 3. This association was more prominent in men than women.

Predictors of COVID-19 booster vaccine hesitancy among fully vaccinated adults in Korea: a nationwide cross-sectional survey: Yunha Noh, Ju Hwan Kim, Dongwon Yoon, Young June Choe, Seung-Ah Choe, Jaehun Jung, Sang-Won Lee, Ju-Young Shin; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022061. Published online July 22, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022061

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study explored predictors of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) booster hesitancy among fully vaccinated young adults and parental COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy for their children.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study administered an online survey from December 2 to December 20, 2021. We enrolled participants aged 18-49 years, for whom ≥2 weeks had passed after their initial COVID-19 vaccination. We estimated odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using multivariate logistic regression to evaluate factors associated with booster/vaccine hesitancy.

RESULTS

Among the 2,993 participants, 48.8% showed hesitancy (wait and see: 40.2%; definitely not: 8.7%). Booster hesitancy was more common among women (OR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.05 to 1.50), younger people (OR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.17 to 1.77), those with a lower education level (OR, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.10 to 3.82), those who received the mRNA-1273 vaccine type (OR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.65 to 2.45), and those who experienced serious adverse events following previous COVID-19 vaccination (OR, 2.03; 95% CI, 1.47 to 2.80). The main reasons for booster hesitancy were concerns about safety (54.1%) and doubts about efficacy (29.8%). Among the 1,020 respondents with children aged <18 years, 65.8% were hesitant to vaccinate their children against COVID-19; hesitancy was associated with younger parental age, education level, the type of vaccine the parent received, and a history of COVID-19 infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Concerns about the efficacy and safety of COVID-19 vaccines were the major barrier to booster acceptance. The initial COVID-19 vaccine type (mRNA-1273), young age, gender (women), a low education level, and adverse events after the first COVID-19 vaccine were key predictors of booster hesitancy.

Summary

Korean summary
본 연구는 국내 19-49세 성인을 대상으로, 코로나19 3차접종 의향과 그들의 18세 미만 자녀에 대한 코로나19 기초접종 의향을 조사하고, 코로나19 백신접종 기피와 관련된 요인을 파악하고자 하였다. 2021년 12월 2일부터 20일까지 온라인 설문조사를 통하여 자료를 수집하였으며, 연구대상자는 코로나19 기초접종을 완료한 후 2주 경과한 19-49세 성인으로, 전국 대표성을 확보하기 위해 성별, 연령, 지역별로 층화하여 모집하였다. 코로나19 3차접종 기피율은 약 48.8%로 나타났으며, 접종 기피 관련 영향요인으로는 젊은 연령층, 여성, 낮은 교육수준, 기초접종 백신 종류, 기초접종 후 중증 이상반응 경험이 포함되었으며, 18세 미만 자녀에 대한 코로나19 기초접종 기피율은 65.8%로, 관련 영향요인으로는 젊은 부모 연령, 교육수준, 부모의 기초접종 백신 종류, 코로나19 감염 과거력이 포함되었다.

Key Message
Concerns about the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines were the major barrier to booster acceptance; the initial COVID-19 vaccine type (mRNA-1273), younger age, gender (women), a low education level, and adverse events after the first COVID-19 vaccine were key predictors of booster hesitancy.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Why Some People Are Hesitant to Receive COVID-19 Boosters: A Systematic Review
Yam B. Limbu, Bruce A. Huhmann
Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease.2023; 8(3): 159. CrossRef
COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Hesitancy in Malaysia: A Web-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Kai Wei Lee, Sook Fan Yap, Hooi Tin Ong, Myo Oo, Kye Mon Min Swe
Vaccines.2023; 11(3): 638. CrossRef

The probability of diagnostic delays for tuberculosis and its associated risk factors in northwest Iran from 2005 to 2016: a survival analysis using tuberculosis surveillance data: Reza Ebrahimoghli, Hassan Ghobadi, Davoud Adham, Parviz Jangi, Abbas Abbasi-Ghahramanloo, Eslam Moradi-Asl; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022060. Published online July 18, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022060

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Abstract PDF: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Early diagnosis is essential for effective tuberculosis (TB) control programs. Therefore, this study examined the risk of delays in TB diagnosis and associated factors in Ardabil Province in northwest Iran from 2005 to 2016.
METHODS
This longitudinal retrospective cohort study was conducted using data obtained from the Iranian National Tuberculosis Control Program at the provincial level between 2005 and 2016. The total delay in diagnosis was defined as the time interval (days) between the onset of symptoms and TB diagnosis. Survival analysis was conducted to analyze the delay in diagnosis. Associated factors were identified using a Cox proportional hazards model.
RESULTS
A total of 1,367 new TB cases were identified. The 12-year median diagnostic delay was 45 days (interquartile range [IQR], 30-87). The annual median diagnostic delay decreased from 68 days (IQR, 33-131) in 2005 to 31 days (IQR, 30-62) in 2016. The probability of a delay in TB diagnosis decreased by 5.0% each year (hazard ratio [HR], 1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04 to 1.07). Residence in a non-capital county (HR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.74 to 0.92) and referral from the private health system (HR, 0.74%; 95% CI, 0.65 to 0.84) were significantly associated with an increased risk of delay in TB diagnosis over the 12-year study period.
CONCLUSIONS
The median delay decreased during the study period. We identified factors associated with a longer delay in TB diagnosis. These findings may be useful for further TB control plans and policies in Iran.; Summary

Korean summary

Key Message
A longitudinal analysis of tuberculosis surveillance data from northwest Iran showed that during the 12-year period from 2005 to 2016, a total of 1,367 tuberculosis cases were registered, of whom 942 patients had a prolonged diagnostic delay (>30 days) and the probability of a delay in tuberculosis diagnosis decreased by 5.0% each year.

The association between the socioeconomic deprivation level and ischemic heart disease mortality in Japan: an analysis using municipality-specific data: Tasuku Okui, Tetsuya Matoba, Naoki Nakashima; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022059. Published online July 14, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022059

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Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Geographical variation in the standardized mortality ratio (SMR) for ischemic heart disease (IHD) among municipalities has not been assessed in Japan. Additionally, associations between area-level socioeconomic deprivation indices and IHD mortality have not been identified in Japan. The present study investigated this association.
METHODS
Information on IHD mortality was extracted from Vital Statistics data from 2018 to 2020 for each municipality in Japan. The socioeconomic deprivation level was derived from multiple socioeconomic characteristics. We classified municipalities into quintiles based on the deprivation level and investigated the association between the deprivation level and the SMR of IHD. Additionally, a Bayesian spatial regression model was used to investigate this association, adjusting for other municipal characteristics.
RESULTS
Geographical variation in the SMR of IHD was revealed, and municipalities with high SMRs were spatially clustered. There was a weak negative correlation between the socioeconomic deprivation level and the SMRs (correlation coefficient, -0.057 for men and -0.091 for women). In contrast, the regression analysis showed a statistically significant positive association between deprived areas and the IHD mortality rate, and the relative risks for the most deprived municipalities compared with the least deprived municipalities were 1.184 (95% credible interval [CrI], 1.110 to 1.277) and 1.138 (95% CrI, 1.048 to 1.249) for men and women, respectively.
CONCLUSIONS
A weak negative correlation between the socioeconomic deprivation level and the SMR was observed in the descriptive analysis, while the regression analysis showed that living in deprived areas was statistically positively associated with the IHD mortality rate.; Summary

Korean summary

Key Message
We investigated associations between area-level socioeconomic deprivation indices and IHD mortality in Japan using the Vital Statistics data, and a spatial regression analysis showed that living in deprived areas was statistically positively associated with the IHD mortality rate.

Maternal vaccine hesitancy towards COVID-19 immunisation of children in Qatar: a population-based cross-sectional study: Shuja Reagu, Suruchi Mohan, Johnny Awwad, Majid Alabdulla; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022056. Published online July 6, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022056

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Abstract PDF

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study was conducted in Qatar to explore beliefs and attitudes among mothers towards coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination for their children and to understand major factors influencing vaccine hesitancy among these mothers.

METHODS

A population-based, online cross-sectional survey was conducted between 15 October and 15 November 2020. A composite questionnaire incorporating a validated vaccine hesitancy tool was developed and administered in both English and Arabic. Approval was obtained from the local ethics committee. Participation was voluntary and offered to all adult residents of Qatar through an online link available on social media platforms and local news portals. Only adult respondents who self-identified as mothers were included in the present study. No personal identifying data were collected.

RESULTS

Of the mothers surveyed, 29.4% exhibited COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy regarding their children. This exceeded these mothers’ rate of personal vaccine hesitancy (27.5%). Hesitancy rates varied significantly with ethnicity, with the highest among Qatari mothers (51.3%). Intention to vaccinate children did not differ significantly between mothers who accepted the vaccine for themselves and those who did not. Overall, the main reported concerns related to long-term vaccine safety. To a significant extent, mothers relied most on self-directed research on vaccine safety for decision-making.

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of maternal COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy exceeded both those mothers’ rate of personal vaccine hesitancy and the hesitancy rate in the general population. The intention to vaccinate children was independent of maternal vaccination history. Factors influencing maternal vaccine hesitancy differ from those influencing personal hesitancy and require an informed public health response.

Summary

Korean summary

Key Message

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Key Lessons from COVID-19: A Narrative Review Describing Qatar’s Multifactorial Approach in Executing a Vaccination Campaign
Soha Albayat, Muna Almaslamani, Hamad Alromaihi, Hayat Khogali, Jesha Mundodan, Jean Joury, Hammam Haridy
Vaccines.2023; 11(5): 953. CrossRef

The risk of stroke according to statin medication compliance in older people with chronic periodontitis: an analysis using the Korea National Health Insurance Service-Senior Cohort Database: Seon-Rye Kim, Minkook Son, Yu-Rin Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022055. Published online July 5, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022055

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
We investigated the risk of stroke according to statin medication compliance in older people with chronic periodontitis.
METHODS
Chronic periodontitis patients were extracted from the National Health Insurance Service-Senior Cohort Database from 2002 to 2014. Among 255,056 chronic periodontitis patients, 41,412 patients with statin prescriptions for 28 days or more were included. The study population was divided into the top 25% of medication compliance group (TSG) and the lower 25% of medication compliance group (BSG). After 1:1 propensity score matching was performed, the final number of patients in the BSG and TSG was 6,172 each. To analyze the risk of stroke, a Cox proportional hazard model was performed to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) after adjusting for age, sex, income level, hypertension, diabetes, and Charlson comorbidity index.
RESULTS
In the Kaplan-Meier curve, the disease-free probability was prominently lower in the BSG than in the TSG (p for log-rank= 0.001). The HR in the multivariable-adjusted model for stroke occurrence in the TSG compared to the BSG was 0.79 (95% CI, 0.67 to 0.92; p= 0.002). Subgroup analyses showed significant associations between compliance to statin medication and stroke, especially in female, people 85 years or older, and patients with comorbidities.
CONCLUSIONS
Increasing compliance to statins may reduce stroke risk in older adults with chronic periodontitis. Therefore, in order to increase medication compliance among older people with chronic periodontitis, it is necessary for medical staff to make efforts to provide effective medication guidance.; Summary

Korean summary
만성치주질환을 가진 노인에서 스타틴 복용순응도가 낮은 그룹에 비해 높은 그룹이 뇌졸증 발생위험이 낮았다. 특히 여성과 후기 노인 (85세 이상), 동반 질환을 가진 그룹에서 유의한 차이가 있었다. 따라서 스타틴 복용 순응도를 증대시키기 위한 의료진의 노력이 필요할 것이다.

Key Message
The stroke risk of chronic periodontal disease patients was related to statin medication compliance, and the effect of stroke risk was different in women, the elderly, and comorbidities.

Blood lipid levels and all-cause mortality in older adults: the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey 2008-2018: Rongxi Wang, Xiaoyue Yu, Zhiqiang Wang, Yujie Liu, Hui Chen, Shangbin Liu, Chen Xu, Yingjie Chen, Xin Ge, Danni Xia, Ruijie Chang, Gang Xu, Mi Xiang, Ying Wang, Tian Shen, Fan Hu, Yong Cai; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022054. Published online July 5, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022054

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Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Proper blood lipid levels are essential for survival in older adults, but inconsistent relationships have been reported between blood lipids and all-cause mortality in the elderly.
METHODS
This retrospective longitudinal study analyzed data from 1,067 Chinese older adults enrolled in the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey collected in 2008 and followed up until death or December 31, 2018. The outcome was all-cause mortality. Multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) with stratification by age (60-80, 80-100, or ≥100 years) for further analysis. The survival probability according to lipid profile quartiles was calculated using Kaplan-Meier curves and the log-rank test.
RESULTS
The participants’ mean age was 84.84 years, and 57.0% were female. In total, 578 individuals died, and 277 were lost to follow-up. The mean total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were higher among those who died than among those who survived. Participants in the second HDL-C quartile and the highest LDL-C and triglyceride (TG) quartiles had 28% higher, 23% lower, and 49% lower risks of all-cause mortality, respectively. After further adjustment, the associations remained except for HDL-C, and additional associations were observed between all-cause mortality and the third TC and LDL-C quartiles and the second TG quartile (HR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.01 to 2.06; HR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.49 to 0.94; HR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.62 to 0.99, respectively).
CONCLUSIONS
Older adults should maintain an LDL-C level of 1.91-2.47 mmol/L and a TG level of no less than 1.66 mmol/L.; Summary

Korean summary

Key Message
The retrospective longitudinal study analyzed data from 1067 Chinese older adults enrolled in the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey. 578 individuals died and 277 were lost to follow-up. Participants in the second HDL-C quartile and the highest LDL-C and TG quartiles had 28% higher, 23% lower, and 49% lower risks of all-cause mortality. After further adjustment, the associations remained except for HDL-C, and additional associations were observed between all-cause mortality and the third TC and LDL-C quartiles and the second TG quartile (HR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.01 to 2.06; HR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.49 to 0.94; HR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.62 to 0.99).

The impact of COVID-19 on screening for colorectal, gastric, breast, and cervical cancer in Korea: Hyeree Park, Seung Hee Seo, Jong Heon Park, Shin Hye Yoo, Bhumsuk Keam, Aesun Shin; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022053. Published online June 21, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022053

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected the utilization of healthcare services, including participation in cancer screening programs. We compared cancer screening participation rates for colorectal, gastric, breast, and cervical cancers among participants in the National Cancer Screening Program (NCSP) in 2019 and 2020 to address the potential distraction effect of COVID-19 on cancer screening.

METHODS

Data from the NCSP for 4 cancer types (stomach, colorectal, breast, and cervical) in 2019 and 2020 were used to calculate cancer screening participation rates by calendar month, gender, age group, and geographical region. Monthly participation rates were analyzed per 1,000 eligible individuals.

RESULTS

The screening participation rate decreased in 2020 compared to 2019 for all 4 cancers: colorectal (40.5 vs. 35.3%), gastric (61.9 vs. 54.6%), breast (63.8 vs. 55.8%), and cervical (57.8 vs. 52.2%) cancers. Following 2 major COVID-19 waves in March and December 2020, the participation rates in the 4 types of cancer screening dropped compared with those in 2019. The highest decline was observed in the elderly population aged 80 years and older (percentage change: -21% for colorectal cancer; -20% for gastric cancer; -26% for breast cancer; -20% for cervical cancer).

CONCLUSIONS

After the 2 major COVID-19 waves, the screening participation rate for 4 types of cancer declined compared with 2019. Further studies are needed to identify the indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer patients, such as delayed diagnoses of cancer or excess cancer deaths.

Summary

Korean summary
본 연구는 코로나 대유행 기간 전과 후 대장암, 위암, 유방암, 자궁경부암 검진 수검률 차이를 비교하고자 하였다. 첫 코로나 확진자가 발생한 2020년을 코로나 대유행 기간, 전년도 기간인 2019년을 코로나 대유행 전 기간으로 설정하며 국민건강보험공단에서 집계된 전수자료를 이용하여 암 검진 대상자 수와 수검자 수를 비교 분석하였다. 4개 암종 모두에서 2019년도와 비교하여 2020년도에 전국적으로 수검률이 감소하는 경향이 있었으며, 1차 대유행이 있었던 3월과 3차 대유행 시기인 12월에 2019년도 동기간과 비교하여 수검률이 크게 감소하였고, 80대 이상 노인 인구에서 감소폭이 다른 연령대와 비교하여 크게 나타났다.

Key Message
We found decline of the colorectal, gastric, breast and cervical cancer screening participation rates in 2020 following the two major COVID-19 waves, compared with those of 2019, and the highest decline was observed in the elderly population aged 80 years and older.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Analysis of the current situation and related influencing factors of cervical precancer screening under the COVID-19
Xiaohong Song, Yongbin Yang
Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering Reviews.2023; : 1. CrossRef
Willingness to Undergo Gastroscopy for Early Gastric Cancer Screening and Its Associated Factors During the COVID-19 Pandemic – A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study in China
Kejia Ma, Xuejie Chen, Xin Xiang, Xueyi Mao, Ningxin Zhu, Tianyu Wang, Shuyu Ye, Xiaoyan Wang, Minzi Deng
Patient Preference and Adherence.2023; Volume 17: 505. CrossRef
Impact of coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on breast cancer surgery using the National Database of Japan
Misuzu Fujita, Hideyuki Hashimoto, Kengo Nagashima, Kiminori Suzuki, Tokuzo Kasai, Kazuya Yamaguchi, Yoshihiro Onouchi, Daisuke Sato, Takehiko Fujisawa, Akira Hata
Scientific Reports.2023;[Epub] CrossRef
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Gastric Cancer Screening in South Korea: Results From the Korean National Cancer Screening Survey (2017–2021)
Kyeongmin Lee, Mina Suh, Jae Kwan Jun, Kui Son Choi
Journal of Gastric Cancer.2022; 22(4): 297. CrossRef
Impact of frailty on survival and readmission in patients with gastric cancer undergoing gastrectomy: A meta-analysis
Xiaoyan Wang, Yimeng Sun, Pei Wang, Yu Jie, Guodong Liu, Dandan Gong, Yu Fan
Frontiers in Oncology.2022;[Epub] CrossRef

Effect modification of consecutive high concentration days on the association between fine particulate matter and mortality: a multi-city study in Korea: Hyungryul Lim, Sanghyuk Bae, Jonghyuk Choi, Kyung-Hwa Choi, Hyun-Joo Bae, Soontae Kim, Mina Ha, Ho-Jang Kwon; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022052. Published online June 9, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022052

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Although there is substantial evidence for the short-term effect of fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) on daily mortality, few epidemiological studies have explored the effect of prolonged continuous exposure to high concentrations of PM_2.5. This study investigated how the magnitude of the mortality effect of PM_2.5 exposure is modified by persistent exposure to high PM_2.5 concentrations.
METHODS
We analyzed data on the daily mortality count, simulated daily PM_2.5 level, mean daily temperature, and relative humidity level from 7 metropolitan cities from 2006 to 2019. Generalized additive models (GAMs) with quasi-Poisson distribution and random-effects meta-analyses were used to pool city-specific effects. To investigate the effect modification of continuous exposure to prolonged high concentrations, we applied categorical consecutive-day variables to the GAMs as effect modification terms for PM_2.5.
RESULTS
The mortality risk increased by 0.33% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.16 to 0.50), 0.47% (95% CI, -0.09 to 1.04), and 0.26% (95% CI, -0.08 to 0.60) for all-cause, respiratory, and cardiovascular diseases, respectively, with a 10 μg/m3 increase in PM_2.5 concentration. The risk of all-cause mortality per 10 μg/m3 increase in PM_2.5 on the first and fourth consecutive days significantly increased by 0.63% (95% CI, 0.20 to 1.06) and 0.36% (95% CI, 0.01 to 0.70), respectively.
CONCLUSIONS
We found increased risks of all-cause, respiratory, and cardiovascular mortality related to daily PM_2.5 exposure on the day when exposure to high PM_2.5 concentrations began and when exposure persisted for more than 4 days with concentrations of ≥35 μg/m3. Persistently high PM_2.5 exposure had a stronger effect on seniors.; Summary

Korean summary
한국의 7개 대도시를 배경으로 수행한 본 시계열 연구를 통하여 2006년부터 2019년까지의 기간 동안에 초미세먼지의 단기 노출이 일별 사망률을 증가시키며, 교호작용모형을 통해 일평균 35 μg/m3 이상의 고농도 지속기간이 처음 시작되는 날과 넷째 지속일에 이러한 사망효과가 커짐을 보고하였다. 이러한 고농도 지속기간의 교호작용은 65세 이상 연령군에서 더욱 두드러졌다.

Key Message
With our Korean multi-city study design from 2006 to 2019, the short-term effects of PM2.5 on mortality were greater when the high PM2.5 concentration duration began during the day and lasted for approximately 4 days, and the elderly may be more affected by persistently high PM2.5.

Changes in cancer screening before and during COVID‐19: findings from the Korean National Cancer Screening Survey 2019 and 2020: Thao Thi Kim Trinh, Yun Yeong Lee, Mina Suh, Jae Kwan Jun, Kui Son Choi; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022051. Published online May 30, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022051

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has negatively affected every aspect of medical care. However, information regarding the impact of the pandemic on cancer screening is lacking. This study aimed to explore cancer screening changes by geographic region before and during the pandemic in Korea.
METHODS
Korean National Cancer Screening Survey data for 2019 and 2020 were used. Changes in the screening rate before and during the COVID-19 pandemic were calculated by subtracting the rate in 2020 from the rate in 2019. Multivariate logistic regression analyses examined the differences in screening rates at the national and 16 provincial levels before and after the COVID-19 outbreak.
RESULTS
The 1-year screening rates for the four types of cancer decreased during the pandemic (stomach cancer: -5.1, colorectal cancer: -3.8, breast cancer: -2.5, cervical cancer: -1.5%p). In metropolitan areas, the odds of undergoing screening tests during the pandemic were significantly lower than before the pandemic for stomach (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.66; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.56 to 0.76), colorectal (aOR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.50 to 0.79), and breast cancers (aOR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.60 to 0.94). Furthermore, the likelihood of undergoing stomach cancer screening during the pandemic was significantly lower than before the pandemic in non-metropolitan urban areas (aOR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.70 to 0.94), while it was higher in rural areas (aOR, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.10 to 2.16).
CONCLUSIONS
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the cancer screening rate has decreased significantly, especially in large cities. Public health efforts are required to improve cancer screening rates.; Summary

Korean summary
• 코로나 대유행 이전과 이후의 최근 1년간 암검진 수검률을 비교한 결과, 위암 (5% 포인트), 대장암 (3.8% 포인트), 유방암 (2.5% 포인트), 자궁경부암 (1.5% 포인트) 수검률이 통계적으로 유의하게 감소하였음 • 특히 위암, 대장암, 유방암의 경우 대도시 지역에서의 수검률이 현저하게 감소하였음

Key Message
The 1-year screening rates for stomach, colorectal, breast, and cervical cancer decreased significantly during the pandemic in Korea, especially in large cities.

Gender differences in the association between multimorbidity and depression in older Korean adults: an analysis of data from the National Survey of Older Koreans (2011-2017): SeoYeon Hwang, Jin Young Nam, Jeong Hyun Ahn, Soojin Park; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022049. Published online May 24, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022049

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Previous studies have shown that people with multimorbidity have a higher risk of depression than those without multimorbidity. However, few studies have examined the association between depression and multimorbidity in men and women separately. Since the rates of depression and multimorbidity are different in men and women, it is necessary to examine whether gender differences affect their association.
METHODS
This study included 30,138 participants (aged ≥ 65 years) from the National Survey of Older Koreans (2011-2017). Depression was defined using the Korean version of the Geriatric Depression Scale (SGDS-K). Multimorbidity was defined as people who had 2 or more chronic diseases, including arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, pulmonary disease, cancer, stroke, or osteoporosis. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the association between depression and multimorbidity.
RESULTS
In total, 22.2% and 30.7% of men and women, respectively, had depression. Those with multimorbidity had a higher risk of depression than those without chronic conditions; specifically, the difference in risk among men was greater than that among women. Age was considered a moderator for women. While the effects of pulmonary disease, stroke, and cancer were especially substantial in the integrated analysis, gender differences were observed related to various chronic conditions comorbid with heart disease.
CONCLUSIONS
There are gender differences in the association between multimorbidity and depression among older Korean adults. Therefore, gender-specific care should be provided to reduce depression in older adults with multimorbidity.; Summary

Korean summary
복합만성질환을 가진 남성 노인이 복합만성질환을 가진 여성 노인보다 우울증을 경험할 위험이 높았다. 특히 심장질환을 가진 남성 노인과 여성 노인은 심장질환을 포함한 만성질환의 개수에 따라 우울증 위험에 차이가 있었다. 노인들의 수명 향상을 위해 성별 차이를 고려한 치료 방안과 정책이 마련되어야 한다.

Key Message
Multimorbidity was associated with a high-risk of depression in older Korean adults and the effects of multimorbidity differed by gender.

Epidemiological data on nutritional disorders and outcomes in hospitalized Thai children: an analysis of data from the National Health Database 2015-2019: Suchaorn Saengnipanthkul, Jeeraparn Phosuwattanakul, Kaewjai Thepsuthammarat, Nalinee Chongviriyaphan; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022047. Published online May 16, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022047

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Abstract PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Malnutrition in hospitalized patients is a frequently overlooked health issue. We aimed to assess the prevalence and pattern of nutritional disorders in hospitalized Thai children from the National Health Database.

METHODS

Hospitalized children aged 1 month to 18 years diagnosed with nutritional disorders between 2015 and 2019 were retrospectively reviewed using the National Health Security Office data. Based on the International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision, Clinical Modification, nutritional disorders were classified into 3 major forms of malnutrition: undernutrition (E40-E46), overweight and obesity (E66), and micronutrient deficiencies (D50-D53, E50-E56, E58, E60-E61, and E63).

RESULTS

Out of 5,188,033 hospitalized children, malnutrition was identified in 115,254 (2.2%). Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM), overweight and obesity, and micronutrient deficiencies were prevalent in 0.21%, 0.27%, and 1.81%, respectively. Among those with micronutrient deficiencies, 95.0% had iron deficiency anemia, 2.2% had vitamin D deficiency, and 0.7% had zinc deficiency. Children aged under 5 years mostly had PEM, followed by iron deficiency anemia. Teenagers commonly had obesity and vitamin D deficiency. Patients with PEM who were admitted with common diseases had significantly longer hospital stays and higher hospital costs and mortality rates than those without PEM.

CONCLUSIONS

Hospitalized children had various nutritional disorders, particularly PEM, which was associated with higher morbidity and mortality. Nutritional screening tools should be utilized for the early detection and treatment of malnutrition. Specific International Classification of Diseases codes for nutritional care services and intervention should be available. Additionally, nutritional interventions should be reimbursed, along with nutritional education and empowerment of healthcare providers, to improve hospital care service and improve patient outcomes.

Summary

Korean summary

Key Message
Malnutrition is common among hospitalized Thai children, particularly protein energy malnutrition; it increases mortality, length of hospital stay, and hospital costs as well as exerts long-term effects on growth and development. Prevalence of overweight and obesity is increasing over the past 5 years, the vast majority involved patients 5 – 13 years of age.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

The Low Sensitivity and Specificity of a Nutrition Screening Tool in Real Circumstances in a Tertiary Care Hospital Setting
Nithit Semsawat, Oraporn Dumrongwongsiri, Phanphen Phoonlapdacha
Children.2023; 10(4): 747. CrossRef

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