Epidemiology and Health

Original Articles

The prevention and response to infectious diseases in long-term care facilities in Korea: a nationwide survey: Sun Hee Na, Joong Sik Eom, Sun Bean Kim, Hyung Jin Yoon, So Yeon Yoo, Kyeong Sook Cha, Jong Rim Choi, Ji Youn Choi, Si Hyeon Han, Jin Ju Park, Tark Kim, Jacob Lee; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024084. Published online October 17, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024084

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Abstract Summary PDF: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Long-term care facilities (LTCFs) are communal environments for patients with chronic diseases or older adults, making them particularly susceptible to significant harm during infectious disease outbreaks. Nonetheless, LTCFs have historically been subject to less stringent infection prevention and control (IPC) mandates. This study aimed to assess the current state of LTCFs and to develop an IPC system tailored for these facilities following the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
METHODS
We conducted an online survey of 11,366 LTCFs in Korea from December 30, 2022 to January 20, 2023, to evaluate the components of IPC in LTCFs. The infectious diseases targeted for IPC included COVID-19, influenza, and scabies. Additionally, we compared institution-based and home-based long-term care insurance facilities.
RESULTS
Overall, 3,537 (31.1%) LTCFs responded to the survey, comprising 1,819 (51.4%) institution-based and 1,718 (48.6%) home-based facilities. A majority (87.4%, 2,376/2,720) of these facilities experienced COVID-19 outbreaks. However, only 42.2% of home-based facilities, in contrast to 90.6% of institution-based facilities, were equipped to manage concurrent COVID-19 cases. Similarly, while 92.1% of institution-based facilities were capable of managing influenza, only 50.5% of home-based facilities could do the same. The incidence of scabies was significantly higher in institution-based facilities than in home-based ones (26.1 vs. 4.3%). Additionally, 88.7% of institution-based facilities managed scabies cases effectively, compared to only 42.1% of home-based facilities.
CONCLUSIONS
Approximately half of the LTCFs had a basic capacity to respond to infectious diseases. However, there were differences in response capabilities between institution-based facilities and home-based facilities.; Summary

Korean summary
장기요양기관을 대상으로 실태조사가 시행되었습니다. 50% 기관에서 감염병에 대한 기본 대응능력을 가지고 있었지만 시설급여기관과 재가급여기관 사이 대응능력에 차이가 있었습니다.

Key Message
A survey of long-term care facilities (LTCFs) was conducted. Fifty per cent of LTCFs had a basic capacity to respond to infectious diseases. However, there were differences in response capacity between institution-based and home-based facilities.

Development and validation of the Health Literacy Index for the Community for the Korean National Health and Nutrition and Examination Survey: Junghee Yoon, Soo Jin Kang, Mangyeong Lee, Juhee Cho; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024061. Published online July 10, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024061

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
We developed and validated the Health Literacy Index for the Community (HLIC) to assess the health literacy of the Korean population within the framework of the Korean National Health and Nutrition and Examination Survey.
METHODS
The HLIC was developed through (1) defining the conceptual framework and generating the item pool and (2) finalizing the items and identifying the cut-off value. Interviews were conducted to examine items’ face validity, and a cross-sectional survey was performed to analyze the item-response theory and Rasch models to investigate the instrument’s psychometric properties.
RESULTS
In this study of 1,041 participants, most had no difficulty understanding health information; however, 67.9% struggled to assess the reliability of health information from the Internet or media. A 4-factor structure was identified through factor analysis, leading to the exclusion of some items. This resulted in 10 items across 4 domains: (1) disease prevention, (2) health promotion, (3) health care, and (4) technology and resources. The HLIC demonstrated good internal consistency, with a Cronbach’s α of 0.87. It also showed high test-retest reliability and correlations with other health literacy instruments. A socio-demographic analysis of the HLIC revealed disparities in health literacy across various age groups, education levels, and income brackets.
CONCLUSIONS
The HLIC was developed to systematically measure health literacy in Korea’s general population. Its simplicity and conciseness ensure reliability and validity and improve its accessibility, making it particularly suitable for the broader Korean population, including those with lower literacy levels.; Summary

Korean summary
본 연구는 한국인의 건강 문해력을 평가하기 위해 지역사회 건강정보 이해능력 측정도구(Health Literacy Index for the Community, HLIC)를 개발하고 검증하였다. 그 결과, 많은 사람들이 인터 넷이나 미디어에서 얻은 정보의 신뢰성을 평가하는 데 어려움을 겪고 있으며, 연령, 교육 수준, 소 득에 따라 건강정보 이해능력 격차가 존재함을 확인하였다. 특히 본 도구는 높은 신뢰도와 타당성 을 입증하였으며, 이를 통해 한국인의 격차를 파악하고 맞춤형 개입을 위한 중요한 정보를 제공하 는 도구로서의 유용성을 확인하였다.

Key Message
This study developed and validated the Health Literacy Index for the Community (HLIC) to assess the health literacy of Koreans, finding that many had difficulties to assess its reliability from Internet or media sources, and disparities in health literacy were observed across age, education level, and income. The HLIC demonstrated strong reliability and validity, highlighting its utility for identifying health literacy gaps and informing targeted interventions in Korea.

Special Article

Nutrition survey methods and food composition database update of the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study: Seon-Joo Park, Jieun Lyu, Kyoungho Lee, Hae-Jeung Lee, Hyun-Young Park; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024042. Published online April 2, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024042

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Abstract

This study presents the nutrition survey methods and the updated food composition database for the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES). The KoGES, which is the largest and longest cohort study in Korea, aims to identify genetic and environmental factors associated with chronic diseases. This study has collected dietary data using a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire and/or the 24-hour recall method. However, these dietary survey methods use different food composition databases, and their nutritional values are out of date. Therefore, it became necessary to update the food composition database by revising nutrient analysis values to reflect improvements in the performance of food ingredient analysis equipment, revising international values to analysis values of Korean agricultural products, adjusting nutrient units, and adding newly reported nutrients related to chronic diseases. For this purpose, we integrated the different food composition databases used in each nutrition survey, updated 23 nutrients, and expanded 48 new nutrients for 3,648 food items using the latest reliable food composition databases published by national and international institutions. This revised food composition database may help to clarify the relationship between various nutrients and chronic diseases. It could serve as a valuable resource for nutritional, epidemiological, and genomic research and provide a basis for determining public health policies.

Summary

Korean summary
한국인유전체역학조사사업은 우리나라에서 가장 크고 오래된 코호트로 만성질환과 영양과의 관련성을 밝히기 위하여 사용되고 있다. 이 논문에서는 영양조사에 대한 자세한 방법론과 현재 공개하고 있는 23개 영양소의 업데이트 및 48개 새로운 영양소의 확대에 대한 내용을 소개하였다. 이러한 개선을 통해 KoGES 영양 데이터의 활용도가 더욱 높아질 것으로 기대된다.

Key Message
The Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES) is the largest and longest-running cohort study in South Korea aimed at identifying the relationship between chronic diseases and nutrient intake. This paper provides a detailed methods of the nutritional surveys and introduces updates to the existing 23 nutrients and the addition of 48 new nutrients. These enhancements are expected to significantly increase the utility of the KoGES nutritional data.

Citations

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Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality: A 14-year prospective cohort study
Sihan Song, Jieun Lyu, Bo Mi Song, Joong-Yeon Lim, Hyun-Young Park
Clinical Nutrition.2024; 43(9): 2156. CrossRef
Association between elevated glycosylated hemoglobin and cognitive impairment in older Korean adults: 2009–2010 Ansan cohort of the Korean genome and epidemiology study
Jung Sook Kim, Byung Chul Chun, Kyoungho Lee
Frontiers in Public Health.2024;[Epub] CrossRef

Original Articles

Association between dietary and behavioral-based oxidative balance score and phenotypic age acceleration: a cross-sectional study of Americans: Dongzhe Wu, Yulin Shen, Chaoyi Qu, Peng Huang, Xue Geng, Jianhong Zhang, Zhijian Rao, Qiangman Wei, Shijie Liu, Jiexiu Zhao; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024023. Published online January 18, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024023

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
In light of the rise in the global aging population, this study investigated the potential of the oxidative balance score (OBS) as an indicator of phenotypic age acceleration (PhenoAgeAccel) to better understand and potentially slow down aging.

METHODS

Utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey collected between 2001 and 2010, including 13,142 United States adults (48.7% female and 51.2% male) aged 20 and above, OBS and PhenoAgeAccel were calculated. Weighted generalized linear regression models were employed to explore the associations between OBS and PhenoAgeAccel, including a sex-specific analysis.

RESULTS

The OBS demonstrated significant variability across various demographic and health-related factors. There was a clear negative correlation observed between the higher OBS quartiles and PhenoAgeAccel, which presented sex-specific results: the negative association between OBS and PhenoAgeAccel was more pronounced in male than in female. An analysis using restricted cubic splines revealed no significant non-linear relationships. Interaction effects were noted solely in the context of sex and hyperlipidemia.

CONCLUSIONS

A higher OBS was significantly associated with a slower aging process, as measured by lower PhenoAgeAccel. These findings underscore the importance of OBS as a biomarker in the study of aging and point to sex and hyperlipidemia as variables that may affect this association. Additional research is required to confirm these results and to investigate the biological underpinnings of this relationship.

Summary

Key Message
• The study found a significant negative correlation between the oxidative balance score (OBS) and phenotypic age acceleration (PhenoAgeAccel), with higher OBS associated with slower biological aging. This association was more pronounced in males, and significant in individuals with high cholesterol.
• OBS can serve as an effective biomarker for studying the aging process and its association with lifestyle and dietary factors.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Association of oxidative balance score with chronic kidney disease: NHANES 1999-2018
Haibin Wen, Xianhua Li, Jiangming Chen, Yi Li, Nailong Yang, Ning Tan
Frontiers in Endocrinology.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Association between oxidative balance score and diabetic kidney disease, low estimated glomerular filtration rate and albuminuria in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients: a cross-sectional study
Cong Liu, Jiju Yang, Hongdian Li, Yuanyuan Deng, Pengfei He, Jiao Zhang, Mianzhi Zhang
Frontiers in Endocrinology.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Dose–response relationship of dietary Omega-3 fatty acids on slowing phenotypic age acceleration: a cross-sectional study
Dongzhe Wu, Yishuai Jia, Yujia Liu, Mingyu Shang
Frontiers in Nutrition.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Dose-response relationship between leisure-time physical activity patterns and phenotypic age acceleration in American adults: A cross-sectional analysis
Dongzhe Wu, Peng Huang, Xue Geng, Chaoyi Qu, Zhijian Rao, Jianhong Zhang, Yulin Shen, Qiangman Wei, Shijie Liu, Jiexiu Zhao
Journal of Exercise Science & Fitness.2024; 22(4): 445. CrossRef

Determinants of unhealthy living by gender, age group, and chronic health conditions across districts in Korea using the 2010-2017 Community Health Surveys: Thi Tra Bui, Thi Huyen Trang Nguyen, Jinhee Lee, Sun Young Kim, Jin-Kyoung Oh; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024014. Published online January 4, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024014

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
We investigated the prevalence and determinants of unhealthy living by gender, age, and comorbidities across Korean districts.
METHODS
For 806,246 men and 923,260 women from 245 districts who participated in the 2010-2017 Korean Community Health Surveys, risk scores were calculated based on obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, and high-risk alcohol consumption, each scored from 0 (lowest risk) to 2 (highest risk). A risk score ≥4 was defined as indicating unhealthy living, and weighted proportions were calculated for each district. Using multivariate regression, an ecological model including community socioeconomic, interpersonal, and neighborhood factors was examined by gender, age, and comorbidities.
RESULTS
The mean age-standardized rate of unhealthy living was 24.05% for men and 4.91% for women (coefficients of variation, 13.94% and 29.51%, respectively). Individuals with chronic diseases more frequently exhibited unhealthy lifestyles. Unhealthy lifestyles were associated with educational attainment (β-coefficients: men, -0.21; women, -0.15), high household income (β=0.08 and 0.03, respectively), pub density (β=0.52 and 0.22, respectively), and fast-food outlet density (β=2.81 and 1.63, respectively). Negative associations were observed with manual labor, social activity participation, and hospital bed density. Unhealthy living was positively associated with living alone among women and with being unemployed among middle-aged men. Access to parks was negatively associated with unhealthy living among young men and women. The ecological model explained 32% of regional variation in men and 41% in women.
CONCLUSIONS
Improving the neighborhood built and socioeconomic environment may reduce regional disparities in lifestyle behaviors; however, the impacts may vary according to socio-demographic traits and comorbidities.; Summary

Korean summary
- 시군구 지역단위의 불건강생활(흡연, 음주, 비만, 신체활동 부족 각 0-2점, 합 4점 이상 불건강) 유병률은 여자보다 남자에서 높고, 연령이 높아지면서 감소한다. - 지역사회 환경개선(술집 개수, 패스트푸드점 밀도, 공원 면적, 병상밀도)과 사회경제적 수준 강화(교육수준, 가구소득, 고용)를 통해 생활습관적 건강행태의 지역 격차를 줄일 수 있다. - 이러한 향상 노력의 효과는 지역의 건강상태 수준이나 사회인구학적 특성에 따라 다를 수 있다.

Key Message
• District prevalence rates of unhealthy living were higher among men than women and decreased with advancing age. • Efforts to reduce regional disparities in lifestyle behaviors could benefit from enhancements to the neighborhood environment and the socioeconomic status of the area. • The effectiveness of such improvements may vary based on socio-demographic characteristics and health conditions.

Folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine status in the Korean population: data from the 2013-2015 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: Sihan Song, Bo Mi Song, Hyun-Young Park; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024007. Published online December 11, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024007

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
We aimed to assess the serum folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine status in Korean adolescents and adults using national data.
METHODS
Blood samples were collected from participants aged ≥10 years in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2013-2015. The stored serum samples were used to measure folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine concentrations. A total of 8,016 participants were included in this analysis. Unweighted descriptive statistics and adjusted geometric means of the B vitamins and homocysteine concentrations were estimated.
RESULTS
Females had higher serum folate and vitamin B12 concentrations and lower serum homocysteine concentrations than males. Folate deficiency (<6.8 nmol/L) and hyperhomocysteinemia (>15 μmol/L) were found in 8.6% and 11.8% of males, respectively. Approximately 3% of males had low or marginally low vitamin B12 status (≤221 pmol/L). Folate and vitamin B12 deficiencies and hyperhomocysteinemia were found in <2% of females. Suboptimal folate status was prevalent among adolescents and young adults, while suboptimal vitamin B12 status and hyperhomocysteinemia were relatively higher in older adults. Adjusted mean homocysteine concentrations were sharply decreased from the first to second decile of serum folate in males.
CONCLUSIONS
In the Korean population, the proportion of males who achieved desirable folate and homocysteine concentrations were lower than those of females. Although most Koreans have adequate vitamin B12, a suboptimal folate status is common, particularly among adolescents and young adults. These findings could establish a foundation for public health initiatives aimed at improving folate levels in the Korean population.; Summary

Korean summary
엽산과 비타민B12는 전 생애에 걸쳐 건강에 영향을 미치는 필수 비타민이다. 그러나 해당 비타민 상태에 대한 국내 자료는 부족한 실정이다. 본 연구는 국민건강영양조사 참여자로부터 수집된 혈청으로부터 엽산, 비타민B12, 그리고 이들의 기능성 지표인 호모시스테인 농도를 측정하였고 성별과 연령별 분포와 적합 상태를 평가하였다. 엽산 결핍과 고호모시스테인혈증은 남성에서 높은 유병률을 가졌다. 적정 엽산 상태를 충족하지 못하는 비율은 청소년과 젊은 성인에서 흔하게 관찰되었다. 대부분의 한국인은 충분한 비타민B12 수준을 가졌으나, 노인의 경우 정기적인 평가가 필요하다. 본 연구는 한국인이 최적의 엽산과 비타민B12 상태를 유지하기 위한 기반적 근거를 제공한다.

Key Message
Folate and vitamin B12 have significant health impacts throughout the life cycle. However, national-level data on B vitamins in Korea are limited. Serum folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine concentrations were measured from samples stored during the national survey. In our study, the proportions of folate deficiency and hyperhomocysteinemia were higher in men than in women.Suboptimal folate status was common among adolescents and young adults. Most Koreans had adequate levels of vitamin B12; however, regular monitoring is warranted, especially in the older population. The current data provide a future direction for achieving optimal B vitamin status in the Korean population.

Trends in the effects of socioeconomic position on physical activity levels and sedentary behavior among Korean adolescents: Hunju Lee, Hyowon Choi, Sang Baek Koh, Hyeon Chang Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023085. Published online September 8, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023085

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
We examined trends in physical activity and sedentary behavior in Korean adolescents, and their association with socioeconomic position (SEP).

METHODS

We used data from the Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey, a nationwide study involving students aged 12-19 conducted between 2009 and 2021. SEP was assessed based on economic status, parental education attainment, and urbanization. Physical activity was categorized into vigorous physical activity, moderate physical activity, and muscle training, and sedentary time was also measured. We conducted the log-binomial regression to calculate prevalence ratios (PRs) and prevalence differences.

RESULTS

Our analysis included a total of 593,896 students. We observed an increasing trend in physical activity, but a worsening trend in sedentary behavior. A positive association was found between an adolescent’s physical activity and SEP indicators, except for urbanization. Adolescents with higher economic status engaged in more vigorous physical activity (high: PR, 1.26; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.25 to 1.28; middle: PR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.02 to 1.04). Similar associations were observed for father’s education (tertiary or above: PR, 1.11; 95% CI, 1.09 to 1.13; upper secondary: PR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.03 to 1.07) and mother’s education (tertiary or above: PR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.15 to 1.20; upper secondary: PR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.04 to 1.08). Adolescents with higher economic status also showed a higher compliance rate with the guideline restricting sedentary time to 2 hours per day (high: PR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.25 to 1.30; middle: PR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.01 to 1.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescents with higher SEP exhibited more physical activity and less sedentary time than those with lower SEP.

Summary

Korean summary
본 연구는 2009년부터 2021년까지 청소년의 사회경제적 지위가 신체활동과 좌식생활습관에 미치는 영향을 분석하였다. 청소년의 경제적 상태, 아버지와 어머니의 교육수준이 높을수록 청소년의 신체활동이 증가하고 좌식생활이 감소하였다. 그러나 청소년이 사는 지역의 도시화 정도는 영향을 미치지 않았다.

Key Message
This article analyzes the effects of an adolescent's socio-economic position on their physical activity and sedentary behavior from 2009 to 2021. The higher the adolescent's economic status, father's education, or mother's education, the more they engaged in physical activity and the less time they spent in sedentary behaviors. However, the level of urbanization in the area where the adolescent resided had no effect.

Citations

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Using structural equation modeling to explore the influences of physical activity, mental health, well-being, and loneliness on Douyin usage at bedtime
Hongcheng Luo, Xing Zhang, Songpeng Su, Mingyang Zhang, Mingyue Yin, Siyuan Feng, Rui Peng, Hansen Li
Frontiers in Public Health.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
The Association between Social Isolation and Physical Activity among Korean Adolescents
Sarang Jang, Na-Young Park
Children.2024; 11(8): 1003. CrossRef

Korea Seroprevalence Study of Monitoring of SARS-COV-2 Antibody Retention and Transmission (K-SEROSMART): findings from national representative sample: Jina Han, Hye Jin Baek, Eunbi Noh, Kyuhyun Yoon, Jung Ae Kim, Sukhyun Ryu, Kay O Lee, No Yai Park, Eunok Jung, Sangil Kim, Hyukmin Lee, Yoo-Sung Hwang, Jaehun Jung, Hun Jae Lee, Sung-il Cho, Sangcheol Oh, Migyeong Kim, Chang-Mo Oh, Byengchul Yu, Young-Seoub Hong, Keonyeop Kim, Sun Jae Jung, Mi Ah Han, Moo-Sik Lee, Jung-Jeung Lee, Young Hwangbo, Hyeon Woo Yim, Yu-Mi Kim, Joongyub Lee, Weon-Young Lee, Jae-Hyun Park, Sungsoo Oh, Heui Sug Jo, Hyeongsu Kim, Gilwon Kang, Hae-Sung Nam, Ju-Hyung Lee, Gyung-Jae Oh, Min-Ho Shin, Soyeon Ryu, Tae-Yoon Hwang, Soon-Woo Park, Sang Kyu Kim, Roma Seol, Ki-Soo Park, Su Young Kim, Jun-wook Kwon, Sung Soon Kim, Byoungguk Kim, June-Woo Lee, Eun Young Jang, Ah-Ra Kim, Jeonghyun Nam, The Korea Community Health Survey Group, Soon Young Lee, Dong-Hyun Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023075. Published online August 17, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023075

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Abstract

OBJECTIVES
We estimated the population prevalence of antibodies to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), including unreported infections, through a Korea Seroprevalence Study of Monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Retention and Transmission (K-SEROSMART) in 258 communities throughout Korea.

METHODS

In August 2022, a survey was conducted among 10,000 household members aged 5 years and older, in households selected through two stage probability random sampling. During face-to-face household interviews, participants self-reported their health status, COVID-19 diagnosis and vaccination history, and general characteristics. Subsequently, participants visited a community health center or medical clinic for blood sampling. Blood samples were analyzed for the presence of antibodies to spike proteins (anti-S) and antibodies to nucleocapsid proteins (anti-N) SARS-CoV-2 proteins using an electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. To estimate the population prevalence, the PROC SURVEYMEANS statistical procedure was employed, with weighting to reflect demographic data from July 2022.

RESULTS

In total, 9,945 individuals from 5,041 households were surveyed across 258 communities, representing all basic local governments in Korea. The overall population-adjusted prevalence rates of anti-S and anti-N were 97.6% and 57.1%, respectively. Since the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency has reported a cumulative incidence of confirmed cases of 37.8% through July 31, 2022, the proportion of unreported infections among all COVID-19 infection was suggested to be 33.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

The K-SEROSMART represents the first nationwide, community-based seroepidemiologic survey of COVID-19, confirming that most individuals possess antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 and that a significant number of unreported cases existed. Furthermore, this study lays the foundation for a surveillance system to continuously monitor transmission at the community level and the response to COVID-19.

Summary

Korean summary
인구집단을 기반으로 하여 대표성 있는 표본을 추출하여 COVID-19 항체유병률 조사를 전국적으로 수행함으로 지역사회 단위에서 지속적으로 모니터링할 수 있는 COVID-19 감시체계 구축의 기반을 마련하였다. 2022년 8월 우리나라 국민의 대부분이 COVID-19에 대한 항체를 보유하고 있었고 인구 3명 중 1명은 미확진 감염자로 추정되었다.

Key Message
The K-SEROSMART represents the first nationwide, community-based seroepidemiologic survey of COVID-19. In August 2022, most of the Korean people had antibodies to COVID-19, and one in three people was estimated to have an unreported infection. This study lays the foundation for a surveillance system to continuously monitor transmission at the community level and the response to COVID-19.

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Infection-mediated immune response in SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infection and implications for next-generation COVID-19 vaccine development
Sho Miyamoto, Tadaki Suzuki
Vaccine.2024; 42(6): 1401. CrossRef
Changes in the intrinsic severity of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 according to the emerging variant: a nationwide study from February 2020 to June 2022, including comparison with vaccinated populations
Boyeong Ryu, Eunjeong Shin, Dong Hwi Kim, HyunJu Lee, So Young Choi, Seong-Sun Kim, Il-Hwan Kim, Eun-Jin Kim, Sangwon Lee, Jaehyun Jeon, Donghyok Kwon, Sungil Cho
BMC Infectious Diseases.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in pediatric patients in a tertiary care hospital setting
Ploy Pattanakitsakul, Chanya Pongpatipat, Chavachol Setthaudom, Mongkol Kunakorn, Thiantip Sahakijpicharn, Anannit Visudtibhan, Nopporn Apiwattanakul, Surapat Assawawiroonhakarn, Uthen Pandee, Chonnamet Techasaensiri, Sophida Boonsathorn, Sujittra Chaisav
PLOS ONE.2024; 19(9): e0310860. CrossRef
Realistic Estimation of COVID-19 Infection by Seroprevalence Surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies: An Experience From Korea Metropolitan Area From January to May 2022
In Hwa Jeong, Jong-Hun Kim, Min-Jung Kwon, Jayoung Kim, Hee Jin Huh, Byoungguk Kim, Junewoo Lee, Jeong-hyun Nam, Eun-Suk Kang
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2024;[Epub] CrossRef

Cohort Profile

Epidemiologic Questionnaire (EPI-Q) – a scalable, app-based health survey linked to electronic health record and genotype data: Maxwell Salvatore, Dylan Clark-Boucher, Lars G. Fritsche, Jacob Ortlieb, Janet Houghtby, Anisa Driscoll, Bryanne Caldwell-Larkins, Jennifer A. Smith, Chad M. Brummett, Sachin Kheterpal, Lynda Lisabeth, Bhramar Mukherjee; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023074. Published online August 8, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023074

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
The Epidemiologic Questionnaire (EPI-Q) was established to collect broad, uniform, self-reported health data to supplement electronic health record (EHR) and genotype information from participants in the University of Michigan (UM) Precision Health cohorts. Recruitment of EPI-Q participants, who were already enrolled in 1 of 3 ongoing UM Precision Health cohorts—the Michigan Genomics Initiative, Mental Health Biobank, and Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes cohorts—began in March 2020. Of 54,043 retrospective invitations, 5,577 individuals enrolled, representing a 10.3% response rate. Of these, 3,502 (63.7%) were female, and the average age was 56.1 years (standard deviation, 15.4). The baseline survey comprises 11 modules on topics including personal and family health history, lifestyle, and cancer screening and history. Additionally, 11 optional modules cover topics including financial toxicity, occupational exposure, and life meaning. The questions are based on standardized and validated instruments used in other cohorts, and we share resources to expedite development of similar surveys. Data are collected via the MyDataHelps platform, which enables current and future participants to share non-Michigan Medicine EHR data. Recruitment is ongoing. Cohort data are available to those with institutional review board approval; for details, contact the Data Office for Clinical and Translational Research (DataOffice@umich.edu).; Summary

Key Message
The Epidemiologic Questionnaire (EPI-Q) is an app-based, scalable health survey that collects broad, self-reported data to augment an electronic health record-linked biobank – the Michigan Genomics Initiative. Of an initial 54,043 invitations (recruitment is ongoing), 5,577 participants enrolled (10.3% response rate) and were invited to complete 11 baseline modules (including personal and family health history, lifestyle, and cancer screening and history) and 11 optional modules (including financial toxicity, occupational exposure, and life meaning). Questions are based on standardized and validated instruments used in other cohort studies and documentation is shared publicly to accelerate development of similar surveys.

COVID-19: Original Article

Barriers to COVID-19 vaccine surveillance: the issue of under-reporting adverse events: Yunha Noh, Hwa Yeon Ko, Ju Hwan Kim, Dongwon Yoon, Young June Choe, Seung-Ah Choe, Jaehun Jung, Ju-Young Shin; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023054. Published online June 7, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023054

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study investigated the reporting rates of adverse events following immunization (AEFIs) to the spontaneous reporting system (SRS) and its predictors among individuals with AEFIs after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination.

METHODS

A cross-sectional, web-based survey was conducted from December 2, 2021 to December 20, 2021, recruiting participants >14 days after completion of a primary COVID-19 vaccination series. Reporting rates were calculated by dividing the number of participants who reported AEFIs to the SRS by the total number of participants who experienced AEFIs. We estimated adjusted odds ratios (aORs) using multivariate logistic regression to determine factors associated with spontaneous AEFIs reporting.

RESULTS

Among 2,993 participants, 90.9% and 88.7% experienced AEFIs after the first and second vaccine doses, respectively (reporting rates, 11.6 and 12.7%). Furthermore, 3.3% and 4.2% suffered moderate to severe AEFIs, respectively (reporting rates, 50.5 and 50.0%). Spontaneous reporting was more prevalent in female (aOR, 1.54; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.31 to 1.81); those with moderate to severe AEFIs (aOR, 5.47; 95% CI, 4.45 to 6.73), comorbidities (aOR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.09 to 1.57), a history of severe allergic reactions (aOR, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.47 to 2.77); and those who had received mRNA-1273 (aOR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.05 to 1.49) or ChAdOx1 (aOR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.15 to 2.30) vaccines versus BNT162b2. Reporting was less likely in older individuals (aOR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.98 to 0.99 per 1-year age increment).

CONCLUSIONS

Spontaneous reporting of AEFIs after COVID-19 vaccination was associated with younger age, female sex, moderate to severe AEFIs, comorbidities, history of allergic reactions, and vaccine type. AEFIs under-reporting should be considered when delivering information to the community and in public health decision-making.

Summary

Korean summary
본 연구는 국내 19-49세 성인을 대상으로, 코로나19 예방 백신 접종 후 이상반응 경험에 대한 자발적 보고율을 조사하고, 자발적 보고와 관련된 요인을 파악하고자 하였다. 2021년 12월 2일부터 20일까지 온라인 설문조사를 통하여 자료를 수집하였으며, 연구대상자는 코로나19 예방 백신의 기초접종을 완료한 후 2주 경과한 19-49세 성인으로, 전국 대표성을 확보하기 위해 성별, 연령, 지역별로 층화하여 모집하였다. 이상반응 자발적 보고율은 1차 접종과 2차 접종 후 각각 약 11.6%, 12.7%로 나타났으며, 중등도에서 중증의 이상반응에 대한 자발적 보고율은 약 50.5%, 50.0%로 나타났다. 이상반응 자발적 보고율 관련 영향요인으로는 젊은 연령층, 여성, 이상반응의 중증도, 동반질환, 알러지 반응 이력, 기초접종 백신 종류가 포함되었다.

Key Message
Spontaneous reporting rates of adverse events following immunization (AEFIs) against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were low, at around 12 % of any AEFIs and 50 % of moderate-to-severe AEFIs. Younger age, female sex, severe AEFIs, comorbidities, history of allergic reactions, and the type of COVID-19 vaccine were associated with the AEFIs reporting.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

The effect of covid vaccination on menstruation and attitude to the vaccine among Indian women – Results of a prospective survey
Anbukkani Subbian, Jeevithan Shanmugam, Uma Ram
Indian Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Research.2024; 11(1): 70. CrossRef

Original Articles

Association of the dietary inflammatory index with phenotypic age in the United States adults: Mengzi Sun, Jiaxin Fang, Wenhui Gao, Yue He, Yanan Ma, Lina Jin; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023051. Published online May 4, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023051

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
One of the underlying mechanisms of aging is chronic inflammation, which has been closely associated with daily diet. Phenotypic age (PhenoAge) has been used as an index to track the aging process before diseases show clinical symptoms. The present study aimed to explore the association between the dietary inflammatory index (DII) and PhenoAge.

METHODS

In total, 9,275 adults aged 20 years old and over in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were involved in this study. Dietary patterns were classified as pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory according to the DII. PhenoAge was regarded as a continuous variable, and linear regression was used to explore its association with dietary inflammation. Stratified analyses by sex, age, race, physical exercise, smoking status, drinking status, and body mass index were used to test the sensitivity of these associations.

RESULTS

The median value of PhenoAge was 38.60 years and 39.76 years for the participants with anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory diets, respectively. A pro-inflammatory diet was positively associated with PhenoAge (β=0.73; 95% confidence interval, 0.31 to 1.14), compared with participants who had an anti-inflammatory diet. There was an interaction between dietary inflammation and age for PhenoAge (p<sub>interaction</sub><0.001). The strength of the association between a pro-inflammatory diet and PhenoAge was stronger as age increased.

CONCLUSIONS

A pro-inflammatory diet was associated with a higher PhenoAge, and the association was strongest in the elderly. We recommended reducing dietary inflammation to delay phenotypic aging, especially for the elderly.

Summary

Key Message
One of the underlying mechanisms of aging is chronic inflammation, which has been closely associated with daily diet, and phenotypic age (PhenoAge) has been used as an index to track the aging process before diseases show clinical symptoms. The present study found that a pro-inflammatory diet was associated with a higher PhenoAge, and the association was strongest in the elderly. We recommended reducing dietary inflammation to delay phenotypic aging, especially for the elderly.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

The association between methylmalonic acid, a biomarker of mitochondria dysfunction, and phenotypic age acceleration: A population-based study
Bing Cao, Yu Xue, Dan Liu
Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics.2024; 117: 105176. CrossRef
Association of pro-inflammatory diet with increased risk of gallstone disease: a cross-sectional study of NHANES January 2017–March 2020
Jinnian Cheng, Qian Zhuang, Weiyi Wang, Ji Li, Lu Zhou, Ying Xu, Haiqin Zhang, Zixu Zhang, Fengli Zhou, Daming Yang, Yimin Chu, Haixia Peng
Frontiers in Nutrition.2024;[Epub] CrossRef

Associations of breastfeeding duration and the total number of children breastfed with self-reported osteoarthritis in Korea women 50 years and older: a cross-sectional study: Dajeong Ham, Sanghyuk Bae; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023044. Published online April 13, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023044

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease, with a higher prevalence among women than men. The present study aimed to examine the associations of breastfeeding duration and the total number of children breastfed with osteoarthritis in Korean women aged 50 years and older.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, we used representative data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, phases 5 through 7 (2010-2018). Our analysis included 10,102 women aged ≥50 years. Osteoarthritis experience was defined as whether a physician had ever diagnosed osteoarthritis. Breastfeeding duration was categorized as 1-6 months, 7-24 months, and ≥25 months. The total number of children breastfed was categorized as 1-2, 3-4, and ≥5. The covariates were health behavior characteristics and risks of diseases (smoking, drinking, physical activity, body mass index, diabetes, hypertension, oral contraceptive use, and menopause) as well as socioeconomic characteristics (income, educational level, and occupation). A multiple logistic regression model was used to investigate associations between osteoarthritis and aspects of breastfeeding experience.

RESULTS

Compared to the non-breastfeeding group, the breastfeeding group had an odds ratio (OR) of 1.55 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.18 to 2.03) for osteoarthritis. Those who reported breastfeeding for >25 months had an OR of 1.56 (95% CI, 1.19 to 2.06).

CONCLUSIONS

The advantages of breastfeeding are already well known, but the present study suggests that women who breastfeed children for a longer time may have a higher risk of osteoarthritis after middle age.

Summary

Korean summary
골관절염은 가장 흔한 관절 질환이며 유병률은 여성에서 더 높다. 본 연구는 국민건강영양조사의 50세 이상 여성 10,130명을 대상으로 모유수유경험과 골관절염의 유병율 사이의 연관성을 분석하였다. 모유 수유의 이점은 이미 잘 알려져 있지만, 모유 수유 기간이 길수록 골관절염에 걸릴 가능성이 더 높음을 관찰하였다.

Key Message
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common disorders in elderly women and identifying risk factors may contribute to screening and early treatment. In the present article, we analyzed the association of breastfeeding and related factors with prevalent osteoarthritis in Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The advantages of breastfeeding are already well known, but we observed that the longer the breastfeeding duration was the more likely the woman has osteoarthritis.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Designing a Knee Self-care Checklist for Menopause Women with Knee Osteoarthritis
Masoomeh Dashtian, Sedighe Sadat Tavafian, Kambiz Karimzade Shirazi, Parviz Yazdanpanah
Journal of Education and Community Health.2024; 11(1): 25. CrossRef

Disease burden of prostate cancer from 2014 to 2019 in the United States: estimation from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 and Medical Expenditure Panel Survey: Shen Lin, Dong Lin, Yiyuan Li, Lixian Zhong, Wei Zhou, Yajing Wu, Chen Xie, Shaohong Luo, Xiaoting Huang, Xiongwei Xu, Xiuhua Weng; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023038. Published online March 21, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023038

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The aim of this study was to evaluate the disease burden of prostate cancer (PC) and assess key influencing factors associated with the disease expenditures of PC in the United States.

METHODS

The total deaths, incidence, prevalence, and disability-adjusted life-years of PC were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. The Medical Expenditure Panel Survey was used to estimate healthcare expenditures and productivity loss and to investigate patterns of payment and use of healthcare resources in the United States. A multivariable logistic regression model was conducted to identify key factors influencing expenditures.

RESULTS

For patients aged 50 and older, the burden for all age groups showed a modest increase over the 6-year period. Annual medical expenditures were estimated to range from US$24.8 billion to US$39.2 billion from 2014 to 2019. The annual loss in productivity for patients was approximately US$1,200. The top 3 major components of medical costs were hospital inpatient stays, prescription medicines, and office-based visits. Medicare was the largest source of payments for survivors. In terms of drug consumption, genitourinary tract agents (57.0%) and antineoplastics (18.6%) were the main therapeutic drugs. High medical expenditures were positively associated with age (p=0.005), having private health insurance (p=0.016), more comorbidities, not currently smoking (p=0.001), and patient self-perception of fair/poor health status (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

From 2014 to 2019, the national real-world data of PC revealed that the disease burden in the United States continued to increase, which was partly related to patient characteristics.

Summary

Key Message
This study quantified the disease burden of prostate cancer and showed that the burden is still substantial in the US from 2014-2019. This study explored the patients’ payment sources for healthcare expenditures and identified the top types of healthcare service expenditure for PC survivors. Moreover, this study also assessed key influencing factors for the high healthcare expenditures, which were associated with some demographic characteristics, such as age, having private health insurance, more comorbidities, smoking situation, and patients’ self-perceived health status.

Citations

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Identification of circadian clock-related immunological prognostic index and molecular subtypes in prostate cancer
Lu Che, Dengxiong Li, Jie Wang, Zhouting Tuo, Koo Han Yoo, Dechao Feng, Yun Ou, Ruicheng Wu, Wuran Wei
Discover Oncology.2024;[Epub] CrossRef

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

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Effects of physical activity and sedentary behaviors on cardiovascular disease and the risk of all-cause mortality in overweight or obese middle-aged and older adults
Yongqiang Zhang, Xia Liu
Frontiers in Public Health.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Modulating the Expression of Exercise-induced lncRNAs: Implications for Cardiovascular Disease Progression
Li-Hua Yu, Ge-Lin Zhang
Journal of Cardiovascular Translational Research.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Joint association of sedentary behavior and physical activity domains with depression in Korean adults: Cross-sectional study combining four biennial surveys (2016–2022)
Sungjin Park, June-Hee Lee, Rashid Menhas
PLOS ONE.2024; 19(10): e0312029. CrossRef

Trends and all-cause mortality associated with multimorbidity of non-communicable diseases among adults in the United States, 1999-2018: a retrospective cohort study: Mengzi Sun, Ling Wang, Xuhan Wang, Li Tong, Lina Jin, Bo Li; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023023. Published online February 14, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023023

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Multimorbidity of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) has brought enormous challenges to public health, becoming a major medical burden. However, the patterns, temporal trends, and all-cause mortality associated with NCD multimorbidity over time have not been well described in the United States.

METHODS

All adult participants were sourced from nationally representative data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. In total, 55,081 participants were included in trend analysis, and 38,977 participants were included in Cox regression.

RESULTS

The 5 NCDs with the largest increases over the study period were diabetes, osteoporosis, obesity, liver conditions, and cancer. The estimated prevalence of multimorbidity increased with age, especially for middle-aged participants with 5 or more NCDs; in general, the prevalence of NCD multimorbidity was higher among females than males. Participants with 5 or more NCDs were at 4.49 times the risk of all-cause mortality of participants without any diseases. Significant interactions were found between multimorbidity and age group (p for interaction <0.001), race/ethnicity (p for interaction<0.001), and educational attainment (p for interaction=0.010).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of multiple NCDs significantly increased from 1999 to 2018. Those with 5 or more NCDs had the highest risk of all-cause mortality, especially among the young population. The data reported by this study could serve as a reference for additional NCD research.

Summary

Key Message
This study included a series-cross sectional study and a retrospective cohort study, utilizing nationally representative data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Multimorbidity of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) has brought enormous challenges to public health, becoming a major medical burden. This study aimed to explore the patterns, temporal trends, and all-cause mortality of multimorbidity of NCDs in the United States from 1999 to 2018, by gender-specific and age-specific. The data reported by this study could serve as a reference for additional NCD research.

Citations

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Association of poverty-income ratio with cardiovascular disease and mortality in cancer survivors in the United States
Vidhushei Yogeswaran, Youngdeok Kim, R. Lee Franco, Alexander R. Lucas, Arnethea L. Sutton, Jessica G. LaRose, Jonathan Kenyon, Ralph B. D’Agostino, Vanessa B. Sheppard, Kerryn Reding, W. Gregory Hundley, Richard K. Cheng, Hamid Reza Baradaran
PLOS ONE.2024; 19(7): e0300154. CrossRef

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