Epidemiology and Health

Original Article

Physical activity, sedentary behavior, and cardiovascular disease risk in Korea: a trajectory analysis: Jina Han, Yeong Jun Ju, Soon Young Lee; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023028. Published online February 22, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023028

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Abstract PDF: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
To identify the distinct trajectories of sedentary behavior (SB) and explore whether reduced cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk was associated with a distinct trajectory of physical activity (PA).
METHODS
We analyzed data from 6,425 people who participated in the Korean Health Panel Survey over a period of 10 years. The participants’ self-reported SB and PA were assessed annually, and trajectory groups were identified using a group-based trajectory model for longitudinal data analysis. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the association between CVD risk (10-year cumulative incidence) and the trajectories of SB and PA. The adjusted variables included socio-demographic factors, the predisposing diseases of CVD, and baseline health behaviors.
RESULTS
Trajectory analysis identified 4 SB trajectory groups: SB group 1 (low and slightly increasing trend, 53.1%), SB group 2 (high and rapidly decreasing trend, 14.7%), SB group 3 (high and slightly decreasing trend, 9.9%), and SB group 4 (low and rapidly increasing trend, 22.2%). The 3 PA trajectory groups were PA group 1 (moderate and slightly decreasing trend, 32.1%), PA group 2 (low and slightly decreasing trend, 57.3%), and PA group 3 (maintained inactivity, 10.7%). By the 10-year follow-up, 577 cases of incident CVD had occurred. We also noted a 50% reduction in the risk of CVD when SB group 4 was accompanied by PA group 1 (odds ratio, 0.50; 95% confidence interval, 0.28 to 0.90).
CONCLUSIONS
Despite increased time spent in SB, maintaining PA about 2 days to 3 days per week reduced the occurrence of CVD.; Summary

Korean summary

Key Message

COVID-19: Health Statistics

Changes in food and nutrient intakes in Korean adults before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: data from the 2011-2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: Kyungwon Oh, Suyeon Park, Sihyun Park, Sungha Yun, Hongseok Choi, Eun Kyeong Jeong; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023015. Published online February 1, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023015

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
This study was to examine the changes in dietary habits and food and nutrient intakes between before (2019) and during (2020) the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES).
METHODS
A total of 54,995 participants aged ≥19 years who participated in the 2011-2020 KNHANES were included. The 10-year trend (2011-2020) and differences between 2019 and 2020 for dietary habits and food and nutrient intakes were estimated using SAS.
RESULTS
In the past 10 years (2011-2020), the dietary habits (increase in skipping meals and eating out), food intake (increase in meats and decrease in fruits and vegetables), and nutrient intake (increase in fat and decrease in sodium) in adults have changed. When comparing between 2019 and 2020, there were 4.6%p decrease in the eating out more than once a day. On the other hand, there were no significant differences in the intakes of food, energy and most of nutrients between 2019 and 2020, except for the proportion of energy intake from fat (1.0%p increase) and carbohydrate (1.0%p decrease).
CONCLUSIONS
Although a change in dietary habits from before to during the COVID-19 pandemic was observed, food and nutrient intakes have not deteriorated markedly and appear similar to the trends in the past 10 years. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, it is necessary to monitor the effects of changes in dietary habits on health as well as food and nutrient intakes.; Summary

Korean summary
코로나19 유행 전, 후 비교 시, 외식 감소, 가정식 섭취 증가 등 식생활은 변화가 있었으나 주요 식품 및 영양소 섭취는 큰 변화없이 최근 10년간의 추이가 지속되고 있었다.

Key Message
Although a change in dietary habits from before to during the COVID-19 pandemic was observed, food and nutrient intakes have not deteriorated markedly and appear similar to the trends in the past 10 years in Korean adults.

Original Articles

Decreased birth weight after prenatal exposure to wildfires on the eastern coast of Korea in 2000: En-Joo Jung, Ah-Young Lim, Jong-Hun Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023003. Published online December 9, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023003

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
In April 2000, a series of wildfires occurred simultaneously in five adjacent small cities located on the eastern coast of Korea. These wildfires burned approximately 23,794 hectares of forestland over several days. We investigated the effects of prenatal exposure to the by-products generated by wildfire disasters on birth weight.
METHODS
Birth weight data were obtained for 1999-2001 from the birth registration database of the Korean National Statistical Office and matched with the zip code and exposed/unexposed pregnancy week for days of the wildfires. Generalized linear models were then used to assess the associations between birth weight and exposure to wildfires after adjusting for fetal sex, gestational age, parity, maternal age, maternal education, paternal education, and average exposed atmospheric temperature.
RESULTS
Compared with unexposed pregnancies before and after the wildfires, mean birth weight decreased by 41.4 g (95% confidence interval [CI], -72.4 to -10.4) after wildfire exposure during the first trimester, 23.2 g (95% CI, -59.3 to 13.0) for exposure during the second trimester, and 27.0 g (95% CI, -63.8 to 9.8) during the third trimester. In the adjusted model for infants exposed in utero during any trimester, the mean birth weight decreased by 32.5 g (95% CI, -53.2 to -11.7).
CONCLUSIONS
We observed a 1% reduction in birth weight after wildfire exposure. Thus, exposure to by-products generated during a wildfire disaster during pregnancy may slow fetal growth and cause developmental delays.; Summary

Korean summary
산불로 인한 연소 부산물에 대한 태아기 노출이 출생 체중에 미치는 영향을 조사하였다. 산불 발생 전후로 연소 부산물에 노출되지 않았던 신생아와 비교하였을 때, 노출된 신생아의 평균 출생 체중은 32.5g (-53.2~-11.7g) 감소하였다. 임신 중 산불로 인한 연소 부산물에 대한 노출은 태아 성장을 느리게 하거나 발달 지연을 일으킬 수 있다.

Key Message
The study investigated the effects of prenatal exposure to by-products generated by wildfire disasters on birth weight. Compared to newborns who were not prenatally exposed to wildfire byproducts, exposed newborns had a 32.5 g (-53.2 to -11.7 g) reduction in birth weight. Exposure to wildfire by-products during pregnancy can slow fetal growth or cause developmental delays.

Effect of socioeconomic disparities on the risk of COVID-19 in 8 metropolitan cities in the Korea: a community-based study: Myung-Jae Hwang, Shin Young Park, Tae-Ho Yoon, Jinhwa Jang, Seon-Young Lee, Myeongsu Yoo, Yoo-Yeon Kim, Hae-Kwan Cheong, Donghyok Kwon, Jong-Hun Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022107. Published online November 15, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022107

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Socioeconomic disparities have been reported as major risk factors contributing to the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) at the community level. We conducted an epidemiological study on COVID-19 incidence risk using area-based deprivation indices (DIs) reflecting the characteristics of the susceptible population.

METHODS

A database of the confirmed COVID-19 cases in 8 metropolitan cities in Korea from January 20, 2020 to December 31, 2021 was combined with area-based DI scores and standardized prevalence rates of diabetes and hypertension from the Korean Community Health Survey. Relative risk (RR) levels were estimated using a generalized linear model with a Poisson distribution by age group.

RESULTS

The risk of COVID-19 incidence generally increased with increasing age, especially in patients aged ≥75 years. The RR of COVID-19 incidence per interquartile range increment of the composite deprivation index (composite DI) was 1.54 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.34 to 1.70). Notably, in the first wave, the risk of COVID-19 incidence was approximately 3 times higher in the region with the lowest socioeconomic status than in the region with the highest status (RR, 3.08; 95% CI, 2.42 to 3.78 based on the the composite DI and RR, 3.13; 95% CI, 2.53 to 3.83 based on the social deprivation index).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides scientific evidence that socioeconomic deprivation is an important risk factor for the spread of COVID-19. This finding suggests that a mid-term to long-term strategy is needed to protect susceptible populations and reduce the burden of COVID-19 in the community.

Summary

Korean summary
한국의 COVID-19 발생 위험은 지역박탈수준이 높은 지역에서 증가하였고, 특히 유행 초기 75세이상 연령층에서 뚜렷하게 증가하는 것으로 나타났다. 따라서 지역사회수준에서 사회경제적 여건을 고려하여 취약집단에서의 발생위험을 감소시키기 위해 중장기 전략을 세워야 한다는 것을 시사한다.

Key Message
There is a need to develop long-term strategies to reduce the risk of COVID-19 outbreaks in vulnerable populations in areas with poor socioeconomic conditions

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

The current state of graphical abstracts and how to create good graphical abstracts
Jieun Lee, Jeong-Ju Yoo
Science Editing.2023; 10(1): 19. CrossRef
Social deprivation and SARS-CoV-2 testing: a population-based analysis in a highly contrasted southern France region
Jordi Landier, Léa Bassez, Marc-Karim Bendiane, Pascal Chaud, Florian Franke, Steve Nauleau, Fabrice Danjou, Philippe Malfait, Stanislas Rebaudet, Jean Gaudart
Frontiers in Public Health.2023;[Epub] CrossRef

Item non-response imputation in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: Serhim Son, Hyemi Moon, Hyonggin An; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022096. Published online October 28, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022096

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
The Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) is a public health survey that assesses individuals’ health and nutritional status and monitors the prevalence of major chronic diseases. In general, sampling weights are adjusted for unit non-responses and imputation is conducted for item non-responses. In this study, we proposed strategies for imputing item non-responses in the KNHANES in order to improve the usefulness of data, minimize bias, and increase statistical power.
METHODS
After applying logical imputation, we adopted 2 separate imputation methods for each variable type: unweighted sequential hot-deck imputation for categorical variables and sequential regression imputation for continuous variables. For variance estimation, multiple imputations were applied to the continuous variables. To evaluate the performance of the proposed strategies, we compared the marginal distributions of imputed variables and the results of multivariable regression analysis for the complete-case data and the expanded data with imputed values, respectively.
RESULTS
When comparing the marginal distributions, most non-responses were imputed. The multivariable regression coefficients presented similar estimates; however, the standard errors decreased, resulting in statistically significant p-values. The proposed imputation strategies may cope with the loss of precision due to missing data, thus enhancing statistical power in analyses of the KNHANES by providing expanded data with imputed values.
CONCLUSIONS
The proposed imputation strategy may enhance the utility of data by increasing the number of complete cases and reducing the bias in the analysis, thus laying a foundation to cope with the occurrence of item non-responses in further surveys.; Summary

Korean summary
본 연구는 국민건강영양조사에서 발생한 항목무응답의 대체방법에 대해 연구한다. 본 논문에서 제시된 논리적 대체와 무응답 대체법을 이용해 대체된 데이터를 제공함으로써 결과의 편향 감소와 통계적 검정력 향상을 기대할 수 있다. 또한, 본 연구의 결과는 추후 데이터 수집시 발생하는 무응답 발생의 최소화를 위한 대책마련에 사용될 수 있다.

Key Message
The proposed logical imputation and item non-response imputation strategy may enhance the utility of data by increasing the number of complete cases and reducing the bias in the analysis, thus laying a foundation to cope with the occurrence of item non-responses in further surveys.

Effect of mammography screening on the long-term survival of breast cancer patients: results from the National Cancer Screening Program in Korea: Xuan Quy Luu, Kyeongmin Lee, Jae Kwan Jun, Mina Suh, Kyu-Won Jung, Kui Son Choi; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022094. Published online October 26, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022094

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Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
This study investigated the effect of mammography screening on the long-term survival of breast cancer (BC) patients aged 40 years or older according to their screening history and duration since screening.
METHODS
The study cohort was organized from 3 nationwide databases of the Korean National Cancer Screening Program, the Korean Central Cancer Registry, and death certificates. We included 24,387 women diagnosed with invasive BC or ductal carcinoma in situ in 2008 and 2009 and followed up until December 31, 2019. Cox proportional-hazards regression was used to investigate the effect of BC screening on the risk of death.
RESULTS
Overall, 20,916 of 24,387 patients (85.8%) were alive at the end of the follow-up period (median: 10.5 years). The long-term survival rate was significantly lower in the never-screened group (80.3%) than in the screened group (88.9%) (p<0.001). A 35% reduction in the risk of BC death (hazard ratio [HR], 0.65; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.60 to 0.70) from screening was observed. A subgroup analysis according to the cancer stage showed 62%, 36%, and 24% lower risks of BC death for the localized stage, regional stage, and distant stage, respectively. Women aged 40-49 years received the least benefit from BC screening (HR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.62 to 0.81).
CONCLUSIONS
Mammography screening was effective in reducing the risk of BC-specific death in Asian women across all cancer stages. However, this effect was relatively small among women in their 40s, suggesting that more detailed and specialized screening strategies are needed for that age group.; Summary

Korean summary

Key Message

Incidence of edentulism among older adults using the Korean National Health Insurance Service database, 2013-2018: Hyeonjeong Go, Eun-Kyong Kim, Hoi-In Jung, Song Vogue Ahn, Hosung Shin, Atsuo Amano, Youn-Hee Choi; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022091. Published online October 17, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022091

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Abstract PDF: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Population aging is rapidly accelerating worldwide. Oral diseases related to aging are also on the rise. This study examined trends in the incidence of edentulism among the older Korean population using data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service (KNHIS).
METHODS
Data on older adults, aged ≥75 years of age, were obtained from the KNHIS for the period 2013-2018. Edentulism was defined as a treatment history of complete dentures in the KNHIS database. The exclusion criteria consisted of both disease codes and treatment codes related to conservative dental treatment, including periodontal and extraction treatment afterward. Crude incidence rates (CIRs) and age-standardized incidence rates (AIRs) with 95% confidence intervals were calculated and reported per 100,000 person-years by the direct method. Trends were tested by Cochrane Armitage models.
RESULTS
Statistically significant increasing trends in both CIRs and AIRs were found among the older Korean population registered in the KNHIS (CIRs, 707.92 to 895.92; AIRs, 705.11 to 889.68; p<0.01). The incidence tended to increase in both genders (p<0.01). Both CIRs and AIRs in specific regions also showed slight but significant annual increases except for Jeju Island (p<0.01 or <0.05). The incidence showed increasing trends (p<0.01) in all income quintiles apart from the highest quintile. The edentulism incidence was highest in the lowest income group (the first quintile).
CONCLUSIONS
Our data showed that the incidence of edentulism among the elderly showed an increasing trend from 2013 to 2018. This result provides a basis for future epidemiological studies on the incidence of edentulism in the older Korean population.; Summary

Korean summary

Key Message

Multimorbidity adjusted years lost to disability rates calculated through Monte-Carlo simulation in Korea: Yoonhee Shin, Eun Jeong Choi, Bomi Park, Hye Ah Lee, Eun-Kyung Lee, Hyesook Park; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022090. Published online October 17, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022090

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
To efficiently utilize limited health and medical resources, it is necessary to accurately measure the level of health, which requires estimating the multimorbidity-corrected burden of disease.
METHODS
This study used 2015 and 2016 data from the National Health Insurance Service, and employed the list of diseases defined in a Korean study of the burden of disease, the criteria for prevalence, and the “cause–sequelae–health state” disease system. When calculating the years lost to disability (YLD), multimorbidity was corrected using Monte-Carlo simulation.
RESULTS
Correcting for multimorbidity changed YLD at all ages in Korea by -1.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], -24.1 to 3.6) in males and -12.4% (95% CI, -23.0 to 0.3) in females in 2015, and by -10.8% (95% CI, -24.1 to 4.6) in males and -11.1% (95% CI, -22.8 to 1.7) in females in 2016. The YLD rate for non-communicable diseases in males decreased more than that of other disease groups in both years, by -11.8% (95% CI, -19.5 to 3.6) and -11.5% (95% CI, -19.3 to -3.0), respectively. The overall YLD rate changed by -1.3% in the 5-year to 9-year age group, and the magnitude of this change remained similar until the 10-19-year age group, gradually decreased after 20 years of age, and steeply increased to more than 10% in those aged 60 and older.
CONCLUSIONS
Calculations of YLD should adjust for multimorbidity, as the disease burden can otherwise be overestimated for the elderly, who tend to exhibit a high prevalence of multimorbidity.; Summary

Korean summary
복합질환 유병률이 증가됨에 따라 인구의 건강수준 측정 시 복합질환을 고려하는 것은 중요하다. 이에 본 연구에서는 복합질환 유병상태를 고려한 YLD(장애로 인한 손실년수)를 산출하고, 복합질환 유병상태를 고려하지 않고 산출한 YLD값과 비교하여 질병부담 산출 시 복합질환 유병상태를 보정하는 것의 효과 크기를 추정하였다. 복합질환의 유병률이 높은 노령층에서 복합질환을 고려하지 않고 YLD를 계산 할 경우 질병부담이 과대 추정될 수 있어, 복합질환을 보정하여 YLD를 산출하는 것이 필요하다.

Key Message
For the elderly whose disease burden can be overestimated, the multimorbidity should be adjusted during YLD calculations.

Inequitable distribution of excess mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic in Korea, 2020: Jin-Hwan Kim, Saerom Kim, Eunhye Park, Chang-yup Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022081. Published online September 26, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022081

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Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
This study analyzed inequities in excess mortality according to region and socioeconomic position to explain the distribution of excess mortality in Korea in 2020.
METHODS
We acquired weekly all-cause mortality data from January 2015 to December 2020 from (1) the National Health Insurance Database and (2) Vital Statistics. Excess mortality for 2020 was calculated by comparing the weekly observed and expected deaths from the same period (2015-2019) using quasi-Poisson regression.
RESULTS
An inequitable distribution of excess mortality was identified. The estimated excess mortality in Korea was -29,112 (95% confidence interval, -29,832 to -28,391), corresponding to -55 per 100,000, and the ratio of observed deaths to expected deaths was 0.91. Negative excess mortality was observed except for females in the 0-14 age group. Male Medical Aid beneficiaries showed positive excess mortality, while non-disabled and disabled groups showed similar negative values. When the standardized mortality ratio was calculated for the top 10 causes of death, deaths from Alzheimer’s disease and septicemia increased, whereas those from diabetes mellitus and cerebrovascular disease decreased. The decrease in mortality was primarily concentrated in older adults, while the mortality of young females increased due to increased intentional self-harm.
CONCLUSIONS
This study adds essential evidence regarding the overall performance of Korea. The observed inequalities according to various socioeconomic variables indicate that the results of strict measures to control coronavirus disease 2019 were not distributed equitably. Efforts should be made to properly evaluate the current and future problems related to the pandemic.; Summary

Korean summary

Key Message

Awareness of and practice toward cancer prevention recommendations: results of the Korean National Cancer Prevention Awareness and Practice Survey in 2021: Jin-Kyoung Oh, Eunjung Park, Byungmi Kim, Yoon-Jung Choi, E Hwa Yun, Min Kyung Lim, Jeong-Soo Im, Eun Young Park; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022068. Published online August 26, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022068

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
This study reports data regarding the awareness and practice of cancer prevention among Koreans in 2021 and behavioral changes during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
METHODS
We collected Cancer Prevention Awareness and Practice Survey data through face-to-face interview surveys using a structured questionnaire completed by 4,000 randomly selected men and women aged between 20 years and 74 years in 17 provinces. We examined the awareness and practice of 10 cancer prevention recommendations and evaluated their associations with potential risk factors through multiple logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, gender, residence, marital status, education, and income.
RESULTS
Eighty percent of participants knew that cancer is preventable, while 45% practiced cancer prevention. Cancer prevention practice tended to be more common among older participants (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.39 per 10-year increment; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.29 to 1.49) and less common among rural inhabitants (aOR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.51 to 0.86) than among urban residents and among single people (aOR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.45 to 0.66) than among married people. Practices were the highest for avoiding burned or charred foods (87.6%) and lowest for vaccination against human papillomavirus (14.5%). Refusal to follow recommendations was most common for avoiding alcohol consumption (7.9%). The most difficult recommendations to follow were (1) regular exercise (57.7%); (2) maintaining a healthy body weight (46.1%); and (3) avoiding alcohol (40.1%). The most significant COVID-19-related changes were less exercise (32.5%) and increased body weight (25.6%).
CONCLUSIONS
The awareness of cancer prevention was high, but the practice was low. Recommendations targeting awareness and practice need to be further promoted.; Summary

Korean summary
2021년 국민 암예방 인식 및 실천행태 조사에 따르면, 국민의 80%는 암이 예방 가능하다는 사실을 알고 있으나, 45%만이 암예방을 위한 건강생활을 실천하고 있음. 암예방수칙 중 가장 지키기 어려운 항목으로는 ‘운동하기’(57.7%)를 꼽았고, 그 다음으로 ‘건강체중 유지하기’(46.1%)와 ‘소량음주도 피하기’(40.1%)순으로 나타났음. 코로나19 유행으로 인한 가장 흔한 변화는 운동 감소(32.5%)와 체중 증가(25.6%)로 나타났음.

Key Message
According to the data collected from the Cancer Prevention Awareness and Practice Survey in 2021, 80% of participants knew that cancer is preventable, while 45% practiced cancer prevention. The most difficult recommendations to follow were (1) regular exercise (57.7%); (2) maintaining a healthy body weight (46.1%); and (3) avoiding alcohol (40.1%). The most significant COVID-19-related changes were less exercise (32.5%) and increased body weight (25.6%).

Trends and disparities in avoidable, treatable, and preventable mortalities in South Korea, 2001-2020: comparison of capital and non-capital areas: Sang Jun Eun; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022067. Published online August 16, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022067

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study aimed to describe the regional avoidable mortality trends in Korea and examine the trends in avoidable mortality disparities between the Seoul Capital Area and non-Seoul-Capital areas, thereby exploring the underlying reasons for the trend changes.

METHODS

Age-standardized mortality rates from avoidable causes between 2001-2020 were calculated by region. Regional disparities in avoidable mortality were quantified on both absolute and relative scales. Trends and disparities in avoidable mortality were analyzed using joinpoint regression models.

RESULTS

Avoidable, treatable, and preventable mortalities in Korea decreased at different rates over time by region. The largest decreases were in the non-Seoul-Capital non-metropolitan area for avoidable and preventable mortality rates and the non-Seoul- Capital metropolitan area for treatable mortality rates, despite the largest decline being in the Seoul Capital Area prior to around 2009. Absolute and relative regional disparities in avoidable and preventable mortalities generally decreased. Relative disparities in treatable mortality between areas widened. Regional disparities in all types of mortalities tended to improve after around 2009, especially among males. In females, disparities in avoidable, treatable, and preventable mortalities between areas improved less or even worsened.

CONCLUSIONS

Trends and disparities in avoidable mortality across areas in Korea seem to have varied under the influence of diverse social changes. Enhancing health services to underserved areas and strengthening gender-oriented policies are needed to reduce regional disparities in avoidable mortality.

Summary

Korean summary
2001년부터 2020년까지 회피가능, 예방가능 사망률의 수도권과 비수도권 대도시, 비수도권 비대도시 지역 간 절대적, 상대적 격차는 대체로 감소했지만, 치료가능 사망률의 상대적 격차는 커졌다. 회피가능, 치료가능, 예방가능 사망률의 지역 간 격차는 2009년경 이후에 특히 남성에서 개선됐지만, 여성의 경우 덜 개선되거나 오히려 악화되기도 했다.

Key Message
Regional disparities in avoidable, treatable, and preventable mortalities tended to improve after around 2009, especially among males, but, in females, disparities in all types of mortalities between areas improved less or even worsened.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Regional Health Disparities in Hypertension-Related Hospitalization of Hypertensive Patients: A Nationwide Population-Based Nested Case-Control Study
Woo-Ri Lee, Jun Hyuk Koo, Ji Yun Jeong, Min Su Kim, Ki-Bong Yoo
International Journal of Public Health.2023;[Epub] CrossRef

The impact of COVID-19 on cancer care in a tertiary hospital in Korea: possible collateral damage to emergency care: Shin Hye Yoo, Jin-Ah Sim, Jeongmi Shin, Bhumsuk Keam, Jun-Bean Park, Aesun Shin; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022044. Published online May 1, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022044

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Abstract

OBJECTIVES
We investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer care in a tertiary hospital in Korea without specific lockdown measures.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort of cancer patients from one of the largest tertiary hospitals in Korea was used to compare healthcare utilization in different settings (outpatient cancer clinic, the emergency department [ED], and admissions to the hematology/oncology ward) between January 1 and December 31, 2020 and the same time period in 2019. The percent changes in healthcare utilization between the 2 periods were calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 448,833 cases from the outpatient cohort, 26,781 cases from the ED cohort, and 14,513 cases from the admission cohort were reviewed for 2019 and 2020. The total number of ED visit cases significantly decreased from 2019 to 2020 by 18.04%, whereas the proportion of cancer patients remained stable. The reduction in ED visits was more prominent in patients with symptoms suspicious for COVID-19, high-acuity cases, and those who lived in non-capital city areas. There were no significant changes in the number of total visits, new cases in the outpatient clinic, or the total number of hospitalizations between the 2 periods.

CONCLUSIONS

During the pandemic, the number of ED visits significantly decreased, while the use of the outpatient clinic and hospitalizations were not affected. Cancer patients’ ED visits decreased after the COVID-19 outbreak, suggesting the potential for collateral damage outside the hospital if patients cannot reach the ED in a timely manner.

Summary

Korean summary
코로나19 이전인 2019년에 비해 코로나19 유행 첫 해인 2020년에 암환자의 1개 상급종합병원 응급실 방문이 유의하게 감소하였고, 특히 코로나19 의심 증상이 있거나, 중증도가 높거나, 비수도권 지역에 거주하는 환자에서 응급실 방문의 감소가 뚜렷하였다. 코로나19 이전과 코로나19 유행 시 외래 방문 암환자의 수, 신환 수는 큰 차이가 없었고, 입원한 암환자의 수 역시 유의한 차이가 없었다. 코로나19 대유행 시 암환자의 응급실 방문 감소는 병원 밖에서 적시에 응급실에 방문하지 못하는 부수적 피해의 가능성을 시사하여, 이에 대한 관심이 필요하다.

Key Message
The study identified a significant decrease in the emergency department visits of the cancer patients at a tertiary hospital in Korea during the COVID-19 pandemic. There were no significant changes in the number of total visits, new cases in the outpatient clinic, or the total number of hospitalizations between pre-COVID-19 and during-COVID-19 periods.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

COVID-19 Outbreak in Daegu City, Korea and Response to COVID-19: How Have We Dealt and What Are the Lessons?
Shin-Woo Kim
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2022;[Epub] CrossRef

COVID-19: Special Article

Mental health of Korean adults before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a special report of the 2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: Hyunsuk Jeong, Suyeon Park, Jihee Kim, Kyungwon Oh, Hyeon Woo Yim; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022042. Published online April 25, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022042

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Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the associated social distancing, limited freedom, and fear of an uncertain future are expected to have substantial mental health effects. We investigated mental health responses in the community during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in Korea.

METHODS

We used 2016-2019 and 2020 data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) to assess pre-pandemic and pandemic mental health status, respectively, in terms of perceived severe stress, depression, and suicidal plans. All analyses were gender-stratified. Pre-specified subgroup analyses were performed according to age, employment status, and household income.

RESULTS

The percentage of Korean adults with suicidal plans increased significantly from 1.3%p (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1 to 1.5) in 2016-2019 to 1.8%p (95% CI, 1.4 to 2.1) in 2020. Individuals in their 20s and 40s showed a marked increase in suicidal plans (1.2%p; 95% CI, 0.0 to 2.3 and 0.9%p; 95% CI, 0.0 to 1.8, respectively). In men, depression and perceived severe stress increased significantly from pre-COVID-19 to 2020. There was a 2.4%p (95% CI, 0.8 to 4.0) increase in depression among standard workers and a 2.9%p increase in depression in individuals in the second-highest quintile of household income from 2016 and 2018 to 2020.

CONCLUSIONS

As COVID-19 continued, mental health issues such as suicidal plans, depression, and severe stress increased significantly in young men and people in the second-highest quintile of household income. Proactive community mental health efforts are needed to prevent increases in the suicide rate resulting from prolonged exposure to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Summary

Korean summary
코로나19 이전에 비해 코로나19 유행 첫 해 동안에 전체 인구에서 자살 계획 유병율이 유의하게 증가하였고 특히 20대-40대에서 증가 비율이 높았다. PHQ-9으로 측정한 우울증 유병율은 전체 남성에서 증가하였고 특히 30대 남성에서 증가 비율이 높았다. 코로나19 영향으로 자살 계획과 우울증과 같은 정신 건강 문제가 젊은 성인에서 크게 증가하였기 때문에 이러한 정신건강 문제가 자살률 증가로 이어지는 것을 방지하기 위해 국가적 차원의 체계적인 정책과 적극적인 지역사회 정신건강 중재가 필요하다.

Key Message
There was a significant increase in the prevalence of suicidal plan in the overall population during the first year of COVID-19 pandemic compared to pre-COVID-19. In particular, suicide plans increased among those in their 20s and 40s. The prevalence of PHQ-9 detected depression increased in all men, especially among men in their 30s. As mental health problems such as suicide planning and depression have significantly increased among young adults due to the impact of COVID-19, systematic policies at the national level and active community mental health interventions are needed to prevent these mental health problems from leading to an increase in suicide rates.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

The Association of Acute Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19 and Exacerbation of Depression and Anxiety in Patients With Clinically Mild COVID-19: Retrospective Observational Study
Sumi Sung, Su Hwan Kim, Changwoo Lee, Youlim Kim, Ye Seul Bae, Eui Kyu Chie
JMIR Public Health and Surveillance.2023; 9: e43003. CrossRef
The Risk of Major Depressive Disorder Due to Cataracts among the Korean Elderly Population: Results from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) in 2016 and 2018
Min-Jin Kang, Kyung-Yi Do, Nayeon Park, Min-Woo Kang, Kyoung Sook Jeong
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2023; 20(2): 1547. CrossRef
Prevalence of Mental Disorders and Associated Factors in Korean Adults: National Mental Health Survey of Korea 2021
Soo Jung Rim, Bong-Jin Hahm, Su Jeong Seong, Jee Eun Park, Sung Man Chang, Byung-Soo Kim, Hyonggin An, Hong Jin Jeon, Jin Pyo Hong, Subin Park
Psychiatry Investigation.2023; 20(3): 262. CrossRef
The association mental health of adolescents with economic impact during the COVID-19 pandemic: a 2020 Korean nationally representative survey
Hanul Park, Kang-Sook Lee
BMC Public Health.2023;[Epub] CrossRef

COVID-19: Special Article

Obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hypercholesterolemia in Korean adults before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a special report of the 2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: Ga Bin Lee, Yoonjung Kim, Suyeon Park, Hyeon Chang Kim, Kyungwon Oh; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022041. Published online April 25, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022041

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10 Citations

Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
We investigated trends in obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and hypercholesterolemia before and during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in the Korean adult population.

METHODS

Data from 60,098 participants in the Korea National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey between 2011 and 2020 aged ≥19 were used. The age-standardized prevalence and annual percent changes (APCs) were calculated for obesity (body mass index ≥25 kg/m2), hypertension (systolic/diastolic blood pressure ≥140/90 mmHg or under treatment), diabetes (hemoglobin A1c ≥6.5%, fasting glucose ≥126 mg/dL, physician diagnosis, or under treatment), and hypercholesterolemia (total cholesterol ≥240 mg/dL or under treatment).

RESULTS

Over the past decade (2011-2020), the age-standardized APCs (95% confidence intervals) for obesity, hypertension, diabetes and hypercholesterolemia were 3.0% (2.1 to 3.8), 0.1% (-1.3 to 1.5), 1.5% (-1.0 to 4.0) and 8.0% (5.7 to 10.3), respectively, in men; and -0.2% (-1.5 to 1.2), -0.5% (-1.9 to 0.9), -0.1% (-2.3 to 2.2) and 5.9% (3.9 to 8.0), respectively, in women. In 2020 compared to the previous 3 years (2017-2019), obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and hypercholesterolemia increased in men (6.0, 1.8, 1.9, and 2.8%p, respectively), but an increase was not apparent in women (2.5, -1.1, 0.8, and 0.7%p, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

An increase in major chronic diseases was observed in Korean adults, especially men, during the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to reduce the burden of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases in the future, effective intervention strategies need to be developed according to the characteristics of the target groups.

Summary

Korean summary
한국인의 비만, 고혈압, 당뇨 및 고지혈증 유병률은 지난 10년간 전반적으로 증가하는 경향을 보였다. 특히, 코로나 19가 유행한 2020년에 남성의 주요 만성질환 유병률은 지난 3년 평균치와 비교하였을 때 모두 유의하게 증가하였다. 반면, 여성에서 만성질환 유병률의 뚜렷한 증가는 관찰되지 않았다.

Key Message
During COVID-19 pandemic, the overall increase in major chronic diseases was observed in Korean adults, and this trend was prominent in men. Accordingly, target-specific intervention strategies need to be developed to reduce the burden of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases in the future.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Sleep Deficit as a Risk Factor for Hypertension in Korean Adults
Mi-Joon Lee, Bum-Jeun Seo, Inmyung Song
Sustainability.2023; 15(3): 2586. CrossRef
Gene–Nutrient Interactions in Obesity: COBLL1 Genetic Variants Interact with Dietary Fat Intake to Modulate the Incidence of Obesity
Junkyung Kwak, Dayeon Shin
International Journal of Molecular Sciences.2023; 24(4): 3758. CrossRef
Identifying the Associations of Nightly Fasting Duration and Meal Timing with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Using Data from the 2016–2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Survey
Junkyung Kwak, Kyeong-A Jang, Haeng-Ran Kim, Min-Sook Kang, Kyung Won Lee, Dayeon Shin
Nutrients.2023; 15(6): 1385. CrossRef
Changes in the Prevalences of Obesity, Abdominal Obesity, and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease among Korean Children during the COVID-19 Outbreak
Kyungchul Song, Juyeon Yang, Hye Sun Lee, Su Jin Kim, Myeongseob Lee, Junghwan Suh, Ahreum Kwon, Ho-Seong Kim, Hyun Wook Chae
Yonsei Medical Journal.2023; 64(4): 269. CrossRef
Revisiting the Diabetes Crisis in Korea: Call for Urgent Action
Jun Sung Moon
The Journal of Korean Diabetes.2023; 24(1): 1. CrossRef
Changes in dietary habits and chronic diseases before and after COVID-19 by regions using data from the 2018-2020 Korea Community Health Survey and Consumer Behavior Survey for Foods: a cross-sectional study
Surim Park, Eun-hee Jang, Seungmin Lee
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2023; 28(2): 124. CrossRef
Trends in socioeconomic inequalities in obesity among Korean adolescents: the Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey (KYRBS) 2006 to 2020
Eunji Kim, Ga Bin Lee, Dong Keon Yon, Hyeon Chang Kim
Epidemiology and Health.2023;[Epub] CrossRef
Changes in food and nutrient intakes in Korean adults before and during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic : data from the 2011-2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Kyungwon Oh, Suyeon Park, Sihyun Park, Sungha Yun, Hongseok Choi, Eun Kyeong Jeong
Epidemiology and Health.2023;[Epub] CrossRef
Prevalence and management of hypertension in Korean adults
Hyeon Chang Kim
Journal of the Korean Medical Association.2022; 65(10): 633. CrossRef
Association between Mental Health and Hand Hygiene Practices in Adults with Hypertension and Diabetes during the COVID-19 Pandemic: The 2020 Korea Community Health Survey
Pius Kim, Hae Ran Kim
Healthcare.2022; 10(10): 1912. CrossRef

Brief Communication

Occupational inequalities in mortality in Korea: an analysis using nationally representative mortality follow-up data from the late 2000s and after: Eunjeong Noh, Young-Ho Khang; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022038. Published online April 6, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022038

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

Many Korean and international studies have found higher mortality rates and poorer health conditions among manual workers than among non-manual workers. However, a recent study using unlinked data argued that since the economic crisis in Korea in the late 2000s, the mortality estimates of male Korean non-manual workers have been higher than those of manual workers. Our work using individually linked data from the late 2000s and after aimed to examine mortality inequality by occupational class. We analyzed Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data that were individually linked to cause-of-death data. Cox regression analysis was used to identify the hazard ratios for mortality by occupational class. Of 11,766 males aged between 35 and 64, 397 died between 2007 and 2018: 142 died from cancer, 68 from cardiovascular disease, 88 from external causes, and 99 from other causes. After controlling for age, the mortality estimates for manual workers were 1.85 times higher than those for upper non-manual workers (p<0.05). We observed no evidence of reversed mortality inequality among occupational classes in Korea since the 2000s; this previously reported finding might have been due to numerator-denominator bias arising from the use of unlinked data.

Summary

Korean summary
개인 단위 연계자료가 아닌 분모(센서스)-분자(사망신고) 집합 자료를 사용하여 2000년대 후반 경제위기 이후 한국 남성 비육체직의 사망률이 육체직보다 높게 나타난다고 기존의 한 연구가 주장했다. 이 연구는 2000년대 이후 개인 단위로 연계된 코호트 자료를 활용하여 여전히 한국에서 육체직의 사망위험이 비육체직보다 높다는 점을 보임으로써, 기존 연구가 비연계자료의 사용으로 인한 분자-분모 바이어스(numerator-denominator bias) 때문에 그와 같은 결과를 보였다고 지적하였다.

Key Message
This paper using individually linked data from the late 2000s and after observed no evidence of reversed mortality inequality among occupational classes in Korea since the 2000s. The previously reported finding showing reversed occupational mortality inequality might have been due to numerator-denominator bias arising from the use of unlinked data.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Mortality of Suicide and Cerebro-Cardiovascular Diseases by Occupation in Korea, 1997–2020
Jungwon Jang, Inah Kim
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2022; 19(16): 10001. CrossRef

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