O jornal O Mundo da Saúde é uma publicação trimestral de divulgação científica do Centro Universitário São Camilo , sob a responsabilidade do seu Editor-Chefe, bem como o apoio do seu Editor Científico, Associado Editorial e Conselho Editorial, composto por conceituados representantes nacionais e pesquisadores estrangeiros. A revista tem como foco a divulgação de estudos e pesquisas na área da saúde e demais áreas de pesquisa a ela vinculadas. O objetivo é possibilitar um exercício crítico e reflexivo a fim de aprofundar a compreensão de questões pertinentes e relevantes que contribuem para o alcance da saúde integral do ser humano e para a criação de perspectivas inovadoras e comprometidas. A revista é especializada em diversas áreas interdisciplinares da saúde, com ênfase em Medicina, Saúde Pública, Enfermagem , Nutrição, Fonoaudiologia, Informática, Psicologia, Saúde Ambiental, Tecnologia em Radiologia, Terapia Ocupacional, entre outras. Recebemos manuscritos nos seguintes idiomas: português, espanhol e inglês. Os artigos submetidos em português são traduzidos pela nossa revista para o inglês e publicados nos dois idiomas. Para artigos submetidos em inglês, há tradução para o português. E para os em espanhol, traduzimos para o português e inglês.
Factors associated with body image dissatisfaction among medical students: a cross-sectional study
Body image is a multidimensional construct influenced by sociocultural, behavioral, and psychological factors, with body image dissatisfaction being frequent among university students, particularly medical students. This study aimed to evaluate the association between body image dissatisfaction and sociodemographic, behavioral, and psychological factors, with emphasis on social media use, physical activity practice, and burnout syndrome. This was an observational, cross-sectional, quantitative study conducted with medical students from a private institution in the interior of the state of Rio de Janeiro. Body image dissatisfaction was assessed using the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) and burnout using the Burnout Syndrome Assessment Scale for University Students (ESB-eu). Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed, including chi-squared test, Student’s t-test, ANOVA, multiple linear regression, and binary logistic regression, adopting a significance level of 5%. The prevalence of body image distortion was approximately 25%. Significant associations were observed between body image distortion and sex, physical activity practice, social media usage time, and burnout. In the logistic regression, greater social media usage time increased the odds of distortion by 40%, while the presence of burnout increased the odds approximately 4.68-fold. It is concluded that body image dissatisfaction was primarily associated with behavioral and psychological factors, highlighting the importance of mental health promotion strategies in the university environment.
Luana Maragoni Alves de Almeida Cassimiro
Copyright (c) 2026 O Mundo da Saúde https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Multidisciplinary care for ICU-Acquired Weakness in Adults: a scoping review
This scoping review aimed to map evidence on multiprofessional care recommendations and protocols for adults with ICU-acquired weakness (ICU-AW), identifying practices and gaps in the literature. The review was conducted in accordance with the methodological recommendations of the Joanna Briggs Institute and reported following the PRISMA-ScR checklist. The search was performed in March 2025 in the MEDLINE/PubMed, BVS, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases, using DeCS/MeSH descriptors combined with free-text terms. Original articles, reviews, and clinical guidelines published from 2020 onwards, in English, Portuguese, or Spanish, were included. A total of 734 records were identified, of which 373 remained after duplicate removal. Following screening and full text reading, 17 studies were included. The findings indicate the use of strategies such as early mobilization, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, and multiprofessional care organization in the management of ICU-AW. Heterogeneity among interventions was observed, as well as the absence of widely standardized and integrated protocols in the intensive care context. It is concluded that, although different strategies are described in the literature, gaps persist regarding the standardization and integration of multiprofessional care, highlighting the need for studies that support the consolidation of more consistent recommendations for clinical practice.
Effect of conventional proprioceptive training versus exergames on plantar pressure distribution in older women
The present study aimed to evaluate and compare the effects of conventional proprioceptive training and exergame-based training on plantar pressure distribution in older women. This was a randomized controlled clinical trial with 50 older women randomized into three groups: conventional proprioception (n = 17), exergames (n = 16), and control (n = 17). Participants underwent 24 intervention sessions, three times per week, over eight weeks. The conventional proprioception group performed exercises involving gait, balance, and proprioception in the form of a circuit. The exergame group performed exercises using the Microsoft® Xbox Kinect One video game console. Plantar pressure distribution was assessed using the Footwork Pro® electronic baropodometer (Arkipelago). Both conventional proprioceptive training and exergame-based training positively influenced plantar pressure distribution in older women compared to the control group. Both interventions may promote improvement in plantar pressure distribution in older women.
Inclusion of a companion in the operating room for cesarean delivery: a synthesis of evidence
The companion of the pregnant woman is the person chosen by the woman to remain by her side throughout the entire childbirth process. The objective of this study was to synthesize the evidence addressing recommendations for companions present in the operating room during cesarean delivery. This is a systematic review that followed the guidelines established by the instrument “Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses” (PRISMA) and sought to answer the question: “What is the current state of the art regarding recommendations for including companions of women in labor during cesarean section?”. The review retrieved 236 publications and included 21 of them. The most prevalent profile of companions present during cesarean delivery was that of an adult individual, male, the baby’s father, the woman’s partner, and with completed secondary education. One of the main recommendations directed to companions was to attend educational activities offered during prenatal care, in order to acquire knowledge about the parturition process, including the use of non-pharmacological techniques for pain relief. The reviewed literature indicates that companions should participate in educational activities during prenatal care, an approach that improves maternal experience and contributes to the humanization of childbirth. The integration of companions in cesarean delivery requires the implementation of institutional protocols, training for healthcare professionals, and structural adaptations of health services.
Factors related to fear and anxiety in dental care in Primary Health Care
Dental treatment is still perceived as a traumatic procedure by many individuals, due to painful experiences or episodes that triggered fear. The scarcity of available dental services, particularly for adults, led to late-seeking behavior, making tooth extraction the primary intervention in the public health system. In addition, anxiety toward dental treatment exerts a considerable impact on psychosocial well being, especially among users who delay dental care, resulting in serious oral health problems. This impact is even more pronounced in families with low income, low educational attainment, and limited access to preventive and curative dental care. This study aimed to analyze how socioeconomic factors relate to fear and anxiety toward dental care in Primary Health Care. This is a qualitative, exploratory-descriptive study, conducted at the Canasvieiras Health Center (HC) in the municipality of Florianópolis/SC, using semi structured interviews with ten active users between August and September 2024, aged 23 to 66 years. Fear and anxiety in the dental office are strongly associated with traumatic experiences and socioeconomic factors, while limited access to oral health services amplifies inequalities and reinforces the need for public policies focused on equity in these services. To change this scenario, it is essential to prioritize oral health public policies, focusing on preventive dentistry, patient-centered care, and public awareness.
Criteria used by nutritionists for menu planning in early childhood education in the municipal education network of the state of Rio Grande do Sul
This study aimed to analyze the criteria used by nutritionists in menu planning for daycare centers and preschools in the municipal education network of Rio Grande do Sul. Thirty-eight municipalities participated, with 84% of respondents being nutritionists serving as technical managers for the PNAE. The most influential planning criteria were: PNAE guidelines (81.6%), food acceptance by students (44.7%), and nutritional composition of foods (36.8%). It was observed that more than half of the municipalities calculate macronutrients and micronutrients, and there is broad inclusion of regional preparations and family-farm produce, promoting healthy eating habits and cultural valorization. However, only half of the municipalities offer special menus for specific dietary needs, revealing inequalities in policy implementation. The results reinforce the importance of the nutritionist’s role in integrating legislation, food practices, and school reality, ensuring healthy, safe, and culturally appropriate meals.
The Potential of Serum Tenascin-C as a Biomarker of Severity and Progression in Coronary Artery Disease: a Narrative Review
Tenascin-C (TNC) is an extracellular matrix glycoprotein whose expression in adults is associated with inflammatory and vascular remodeling processes, such as atherosclerosis. This exploratory narrative review resulted in the inclusion of studies that evaluated the association between serum TNC levels and the severity of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). The findings indicate that TNC levels above 89.48 ng/mL exhibit a sensitivity of 86.4% and a specificity of 77.6% for identifying the presence of CAD, whereas values above 100.91 ng/mL are predictors of complex and severe coronary lesions (Gensini Score). It is concluded that serum TNC is a promising marker for risk stratification and monitoring of CAD progression, although its standardization in clinical practice requires validation in larger cohort studies.
Between knowledge and risk: prevalence and patterns of self-medication among medical students in northern Brazil
Self-medication is a widely prevalent practice and represents an important public health challenge, particularly among health sciences students. This study aimed to describe the prevalence and patterns of self-medication among medical students at a university in northern Brazil. This was a cross-sectional, quantitative, descriptive-analytical study conducted with 216 students. Data collection was performed using a self-administered, anonymous questionnaire adapted from a previously validated instrument. The investigated variables included frequency of self-medication, motivating factors, drug classes used, sources of advice, and knowledge regarding risks and adverse effects. The majority of participants were female (70.8%). Purchase of medications without a prescription was reported by 94.4% of students, and 80.6% reported seeking advice from pharmacists or pharmacy attendants. Analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs were the most frequently used drug classes. Regarding knowledge of adverse effects, 59.7% reported knowing most of them, while only 12.5% claimed to know all of them. A high prevalence of self-medication was observed among the evaluated students, primarily associated with prior familiarity with medications, lack of time for medical consultations, and the perception of sufficient pharmacological knowledge. The results reinforce the need for educational strategies during medical training focused on rational medication use.
Parental dietary intake predicts fruit consumption among preschool children
The promotion of adequate and healthy eating in childhood constitutes a central strategy of public health policies, with schools representing a privileged setting for the formation of dietary habits. During the preschool period, eating behavior is strongly influenced by the family and school environments, particularly with regard to the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and legumes. This study aimed to identify the determining factors associated with the consumption of these foods among preschool children enrolled in a public school in the municipality of São Paulo, SP, Brazil. This was a cross-sectional study conducted with 72 preschool children and their respective parents. Dietary intake was assessed using an adapted food frequency questionnaire, and sociodemographic characteristics were obtained through a structured questionnaire. The fruits most frequently consumed by the children were banana, apple, and orange, with patterns similar to those observed among parents, whereas foods such as kiwi, escarole, and watercress showed low intake in both groups. A positive association was observed between children’s consumption of fruits, vegetables, and legumes and parental consumption, regardless of sociodemographic characteristics, as well as an association with the number of meals consumed in the school environment. It is concluded that both the family and school environments exert a direct influence on preschoolers’ eating habits, reinforcing the need for food and nutrition education actions aimed at expanding dietary variety from the earliest years of life.
Memories and social representations of COVID-19: fear and its repercussions in the daily lives of older adults
Studying Social Representations (SR) and the memories of older adults in contexts of adversity, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, is relevant, as such representations influence individual thought and behavior, impacting their ways of caring for health and living in society. From this perspective, the present study aimed to understand the memories and SR of older adults regarding the repercussions of COVID-19 in their daily lives. This is an exploratory, descriptive study with a qualitative approach, theoretically grounded in the Theory of Social Representations. The study was conducted in a Primary Health Care Unit in a municipality in the interior of Bahia, Brazil, with 22 older adults with preserved communication and cognition. Data were collected through a sociodemographic questionnaire and semi structured interview and analyzed using the Iramuteq software for coding and Bardin’s content analysis. A predominance of women was observed (82.0%), aged between 60 and 75 years (54.5%), without a partner (54.5%), with declared religion (100.0%), living with family members (63.6%), and with low schooling (77.3%). Textual analysis revealed the category “Fear as the structuring core of the social representations of the pandemic”. Fear was related to the risk of illness and death, social distancing, changes in care practices and ambivalences surrounding vaccination. The narratives indicate that such perceptions influenced protective behaviors, isolation and reconfiguration of social relationships, with repercussions that, in some cases, remain in the post-pandemic period. It is concluded that fear constituted an organizing element of the memories and SR of older adults about the pandemic, highlighting the importance of communication and care strategies sensitive to subjective dimensions in contexts of health crises.
Influential factors in the consumption of non-recommended foods among education undergraduate students
This study addresses the concerning global problem of low physical activity among adolescents, which affects approximately 80% of this population and generates a substantial economic burden on public health systems. The aim was to assess how dietary habits, physical activity, and excessive internet use predict the consumption of non-recommended foods among undergraduate students from the Faculty of Education Sciences at the Universidad Nacional del Altiplano de Puno. Using a quantitative, non-experimental, and explanatory design, data were collected from 563 students through a validated questionnaire with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.92. Data were analyzed using multiple linear regression and Pearson’s correlation, identifying three significant variables influencing the consumption of non recommended foods: eating behavior (β = −0.105; p < 0.001), internet use (β = 0.130; p < 0.05), and gender (β = 0.204; p < 0.001). These findings demonstrate that healthy dietary practices, the digital environment, and gender differences play a crucial role in eating behavior. In conclusion, the results suggest that, to promote healthy eating and reduce the consumption of non-recommended products, it is essential to develop comprehensive strategies that include improving dietary habits, regulating the time spent and content consumed on the internet, and considering gender differences, in order to optimize the effectiveness of interventions among the university population, thereby contributing to the prevention of diet-related diseases and the promotion of public health.
Pharmacoepidemiological profile of patients treated at a teaching clinic in the brazilian Amazon
Characterizing medication use constitutes a fundamental health indicator, particularly in the context of challenges such as polypharmacy and self-medication. However, populations assisted in teaching clinics remain underinvestigated, despite encompassing diverse profiles and serving as strategic settings for professional training. This study aimed to characterize the therapeutic profile and health-related behaviors of patients treated at a teaching clinic in the Brazilian Amazon. An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted from october 2024 to march 2025 at the Teaching Clinic of the Universidade da Amazônia, Belém, PA, Brazil. A convenience sample included 80 consecutive adults who met the eligibility criteria. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire administered through individual interviews and analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square/Fisher’s exact tests. The sample was predominantly female (68.7%), with a mean age of 52.13 ± 17.91 years, and 56.2% reported chronic diseases. A high prevalence of self-medication (60%) and polypharmacy (38.75%) was observed. Self-medication was significantly associated with the presence of chronic diseases (RR = 1.64; p = 0.04) and self-reported adverse drug reactions (RR = 1.93; p = 0.038). No participant demonstrated high therapeutic adherence, with neglect of dosing schedules being the main reason for non-adherence (83.75%). Access to pharmaceutical consultations was low (22.5%), and improper disposal of medications was prevalent (73.75% disposed of medicines in household waste). Integrative and Complementary Practices were used by 57.5% of participants, predominantly phytotherapy (73.9%), without professional guidance. These findings indicate a high-risk pharmacotherapeutic profile characterized by self-medication, polypharmacy, adverse drug reactions, and absence of high therapeutic adherence, associated with limited access to pharmaceutical services. The implementation of pharmaceutical care strategies integrated into the teaching-clinic environment is necessary to optimize pharmacotherapy and enhance evidence-based professional training grounded in local realities.
Infectious keratitis in the Midwest region of Santa Catarina (2013–2024): etiological distribution and predisposing factors
Keratitis ranks among the leading global causes of reduced visual acuity and reversible blindness, affecting patients across all age groups. This study analyzed the etiological profile of infectious keratitis diagnosed at an ophthalmological center in the Midwest region of Santa Catarina, Brazil. Through an 11-year retrospective analysis, 25 samples processed under a rigorous microbiological protocol were evaluated. Culture positivity was observed in 17 (68%) samples. Bacterial etiology predominated in 13 (76.5%) samples, with a higher prevalence of coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (CoNS). Fungal and mixed etiologies each accounted for 2 (11.8%) cases. Regarding the sociodemographic profile, 15 (60%) affected individuals were male, predominantly agricultural workers, with a mean age of 58 years. Agricultural activity was the primary occupation, correlating with the main predisposing factors: ocular trauma and prior surgical interventions. The identified scenario indicates a bacterial profile strongly associated with the occupational context of the region, reinforcing the need for preventive actions focused on ocular health among rural workers.
Control groups in clinical trials of non-pharmacological interventions for cancer pain: a meta-research study
Cancer pain is a common challenge in patients with cancer, arising from tumor progression or adverse effects of treatment. For its management, non-pharmacological interventions have been investigated through randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which require appropriate comparative strategies (placebo or sham) to isolate the effects of the intervention. However, limitations in blinding inherent to this type of intervention may influence the interpretation of results. The objective of this study was to identify the strategies used in the control groups of randomized controlled trials evaluating non-pharmacological interventions for cancer pain. This is a meta-research study (research on how science is produced) conducted in the MEDLINE and LILACS databases, using MeSH/DeCS descriptors and free-text terms related to “Cancer pain” and “Complementary therapies,” with no restrictions on language or year of publication. Non-randomized studies and those involving surgical interventions were excluded. Study selection and data extraction were performed in duplicate. Information on the type of blinding and the strategies used in the control groups was extracted. The search retrieved 311 articles; 52 were included after screening, of which 22 had full-text availability. Of these, 15 were single-blind, 6 were open-label, 1 was described as double-blind, and 12 discussed the impact of performance bias. The most frequently evaluated interventions included acupuncture, therapeutic massage, and music therapy. Control groups varied between usual care, placebo, no intervention, and sham procedures. It is concluded that there is substantial variability in control strategies and that the absence of discussion regarding performance bias may compromise the interpretation of results and clinical decision-making.
Assessment of dietary intake among adolescents with obesity according to the Guia Alimentar para a População Brasileira
Obesity among adolescents is an increasing public health concern, with significant impacts. In this context, Fascicle 5 of the Guia Alimentar para a População Brasileira (GAPB), developed to guide healthy food choices among adolescents, was used as a reference in this study, which aimed to evaluate the dietary intake of adolescents with obesity, as well as to analyze its association with Body Mass Index (BMI). After approval by the Research Ethics Committee, 32 adolescents with obesity, aged between 13 and 19 years, were included. During the nutritional consultation, a 24-hour Dietary Recall (24hDR) was applied and anthropometric assessment (weight and height) was performed, with the data compared to the recommendations of Fascicle 5 of the GAPB. Statistical analysis was conducted using JAMOVI software. Of the 32 adolescents interviewed, 59.38% were female, with a median age of 15.4 years and a median BMI of 36.0 kg/m2. Among the adolescents, 46.88% were classified as having obesity and 53.12% as having severe obesity. A high frequency of consumption of ultra-processed foods (93.75%) and low intake of fruits (15.63%) and vegetables/legumes (43.75%) were observed. Breakfast consumption was reported by 87.50% of adolescents; those who did not consume breakfast had a higher median BMI (40.7 vs. 34.3), although without statistical significance. It was also observed that adolescents who did not consume beans had a significantly higher BMI (p = 0.042), as did those who consumed filled cookies and sweets (p = 0.036) or other ultra-processed foods (p = 0.026). The results indicate an association between the consumption of minimally processed foods, such as beans, and lower BMI values, whereas the intake of ultra-processed foods is associated with increased BMI. Therefore, it is essential to develop programs based on the GAPB that encourage healthy habits from adolescence, contributing to improved nutritional profiles and prevention of diseases in adulthood.
Analysis of health indicators among Brazilian schoolchildren using PeNSE data (2009–2019)
The present study aimed to comparatively analyze health indicators among Brazilian 9th-grade students based on microdata from the National School Health Survey (PeNSE) for the years 2009 and 2019. This is a quantitative, cross-sectional study with a sample of 63,411 students in 2009 and 160,721 in 2019. Variables related to dietary intake, family arrangement, mobile phone use, and maternal education were evaluated. A significant increase was observed in mobile phone ownership (from 73.7% to 86.7%) and in the habit of consuming meals concomitantly with other activities (from 62.2% to 77.5%), a behavior that may be associated with distraction and reduced attention to satiety during meals. An improvement in maternal educational level was identified, along with an increase in the proportion of adolescents living only with their mother (from 31.0% to 37.6%). Conversely, a reduction was observed in the consumption of fruits (from 31.2% to 28.4%), vegetables (from 30.9% to 29.7%), beans (from 61.8% to 53.9%), sweets/confectionery (from 50.3% to 36.2%), and soft drinks (from 36.8% to 19.1%). These findings indicate changes in dietary patterns, characterized by reduced consumption of traditional foods and the persistence of practices associated with the media and digital environment. It is concluded that, despite the reduction in specific ultra-processed foods, dietary behaviors remain influenced by socioeconomic and cultural factors, requiring intersectoral public policies to promote healthy eating and strengthen the actions of the National School Feeding Program (PNAE) and the Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian Population.
Inflammation and pain: a brief review of mechanisms and therapeutics
Inflammation is a complex immunological response to harmful stimuli such as pathogens, damaged cells, and toxins, playing a fundamental role in host defense and tissue repair. This narrative review selected 41 recent studies addressing the cellular, molecular, and pathophysiological mechanisms of inflammation and its relationship with pain, including lifestyle influences and current and emerging therapeutic strategies. Acute inflammation is characterized by rapid onset, vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, and predominant neutrophil recruitment, with mediators such as prostaglandins, leukotrienes, histamine, bradykinin, and pro-inflammatory cytokines, and may generate systemic manifestations such as peripheral and pulmonary edema. Chronic inflammation results from failure of resolution, with persistent mononuclear infiltrate, tissue remodeling, fibrosis, and activation of the adaptive immune response. Inflammatory pain arises from peripheral sensitization of nociceptors and central activation, mediated by excitatory neurotransmitters, ion channels, and specific receptors, favoring hyperalgesia and chronification. Active resolution, promoted by lipoxins, resolvins, and maresins, modulates inflammation and nociception. Therapeutic interventions include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, glucocorticoids, biological therapies, and JAK/STAT inhibitors; however, their adverse effects highlight the need for safer novel approaches. Lifestyle factors such as obesity, chronic stress, and physical inactivity contribute to low-grade inflammation and persistent pain. Understanding these interactions is crucial for the development of integrated strategies that reconcile anti-inflammatory and analgesic efficacy with clinical safety.
The mental health care of healthcare workers: an analysis of knowledge production through a scoping review
Globally, studies have devoted considerable attention to the psychosocial aspects of work and to the ways in which these factors impact healthcare workers across different levels of care. Findings indicate the need for improvements in overall working conditions and in the provision of social support to healthcare professionals, while also highlighting the paradox of illness among professionals whose work objective is the care of themselves and others. The present article was motivated by the psychological demands faced by professionals, including long and intense working hours, professional devaluation, interpersonal conflicts, and emotional overload resulting from patient care. The study aimed to analyze actions and strategies for promotion, prevention, screening, and care in mental health among healthcare professionals. This study consists of a scoping review on the mental health of healthcare professionals, focusing on promotion, prevention, screening, and care, through the identification and presentation of available data in national and international literature. The method proposed by the Joanna Briggs Institute was employed. A total of 1211 articles were identified, of which 157 were included, covering the period from 2007 to 2022. Considering the entire set of articles, 94 studies identified the need for mental and/or physical health interventions with healthcare professionals, among which 60 (63.83%) occurred in disaster and catastrophe contexts. The low number of interventional studies (14.28%) becomes concerning when considering research that demonstrates healthcare workers’ reluctance to seek mental health assistance in the workplace. The importance of interventions during pandemics is highlighted, including support and welcoming approaches, as well as the use of technologies. It is concluded that there is a scarcity of studies prior to 2020 and of intervention-based research aimed at understanding and addressing the impacts on mental health, well-being, and quality of life among healthcare professionals. The use of information technologies is understood to assume particular relevance for future research, as well as for guiding actions in health management.
Perceived stress and self-reported bruxism in peruvian dentists: a cross-sectional occupational health study
Occupational stress represents a growing risk among healthcare professionals, with dentists being particularly exposed to both physical and emotional demands. One of its potential clinical consequences is bruxism, defined as involuntary masticatory muscle activity that may be influenced by psychological factors. This study aimed to determine the relationship between perceived stress and self-reported bruxism in dentists in the city of Puno, Peru, during 2025. A quantitative, cross-sectional, and correlational study was conducted on a sample of 219 participants. The Stress Reactivity Index (IRE-32) and a 15-item self-report bruxism checklist were used to assess the main variables. Results showed that 38.4% of the participants experienced a high level of perceived stress, and 61.6% reported some degree of bruxism, with the mild form being the most frequent (31.9%). Spearman’s correlation analysis showed a strong positive relationship between the two variables (rho = 0.689; p < 0.001), indicating that higher levels of perceived stress are associated with greater severity of self-reported bruxism. These findings suggest a significant mutual association between the two conditions, which should be considered when designing prevention and health promotion strategies targeting the mental and musculoskeletal well-being of dental professionals. Due to the cross-sectional design, these findings should be interpreted as associations rather than causal relationships.
Functional health literacy and associated factors in older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus
The aim of the present study was to assess functional health literacy (FHL) among older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) who performed self-monitoring of capillary blood glucose (SMCBG) and to analyze associated sociodemographic and clinical factors. This is an observational, analytical, cross-sectional study conducted with 106 older adults receiving care at health units in Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, between February and October 2024. A sociodemographic and clinical questionnaire and the Brief Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (B-TOFHLA) were used. Descriptive analyses, Pearson’s chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests, and Spearman’s correlation were performed, adopting a significance level of 5%. The mean age was 69.97 years (SD=6.23), with a mean of 8.71 years of schooling (SD=4.49) and a mean monthly family income of R$ 2,833.41 (SD=1,911.38). Regarding FHL, 48.1% of participants had adequate levels, 8.5% borderline, and 43.4% inadequate. A statistically significant association was observed between education level and FHL categories (p<0.001). Positive correlations were also found between the B-TOFHLA score and years of schooling (ρ=0.492; p<0.001) and income (ρ=0.290; p=0.003), as well as a negative correlation with age (ρ=-0.206; p=0.034). Time since T2DM diagnosis was not significantly associated (ρ=0.081; p=0.411). It is concluded that more than half of the participants presented borderline or inadequate FHL, with education level being the main factor associated with performance on the B-TOFHLA. These findings highlight the need for continuous, clear, and tailored educational interventions adapted to the educational and socioeconomic conditions of older adults with T2DM.
Age-adjusted health conditions, frailty, and functionality among older adults in primary care
This study aimed to investigate the relationship between health conditions, frailty, functionality, and age-adjusted scores among older adults receiving primary care services. This is a descriptive exploratory study conducted with 225 older adults enrolled in Primary Care in the municipality of Jequié, Bahia, Brazil. Sociodemographic data, health conditions, functionality, and frailty were assessed using instruments such as the Barthel Index, the Lawton and Brody Scale, and the VES-13. The results showed a higher prevalence of women (65.8%), presence of pain (69.3%), and high levels of functional dependence (99.1% for Instrumental Activities of Daily Living and 76.9% for Basic Activities of Daily Living). After multivariate adjustment, the following associations remained statistically significant: dependence in basic activities of daily living (RP = 1.56; 95%CI = 1.17–2.07; p < 0.01), presence of vulnerability (RP = 1.49; 95%CI = 1.07–2.07; p = 0.02), risk of falls (RP = 2.61; 95%CI = 1.56–4.39; p < 0.001), and depressive symptoms (RP = 1.34; 95%CI = 1.01–1.76; p < 0.04). The findings indicate that the presence of vulnerability, functional dependence in basic activities of daily living, and depressive symptoms are associated with lower age-adjusted scores.
Integral Health in Messina Strait: marine ecosystems, historical collections and human well-being
The benthic ecosystems of the Strait of Messina, Laminaria ochroleuca Bachelot Pylaie 1824 forests and rhodolith beds, play a crucial role in promoting environmental and human health, offering essential Nature’s Contributions to People (NCP), such as climate regulation, food provision, and psychosocial benefits. Complementing these natural systems, the historical Herbarium “A. Pistone” documents the algal seascapes of the late 19th century and offers cultural, aesthetic, and educational values that enhance psychosocial well-being and strengthen emotional memory within local communities. Sustainable practices, such as scuba diving activities, citizen science initiatives, and awareness campaigns, are proposed as “People’s Contributions to Nature” (PCN), expressed through gratitude, empathy, affection, reciprocity, and spirituality. These actions promote mental and physical health by reducing stress, fostering social cohesion, and encouraging active lifestyles, while also supporting nature-based strategies for disease prevention through biodiversity conservation and improved ecosystem integrity. Future research will focus on taxonomic identification of herbarium specimens (using DNA barcoding and morphological analysis), biogeographical and biocoenotic studies, and quantitative assessments of ecosystem services. These analyses are essential to understand how these ecosystems mitigate climate change, reduce environmental health risks, and inform public health policies aimed at integrating ecosystem services into preventive strategies. To strengthen the human–nature relationship and promote integral health, participatory approaches, such as educational workshops, immersive experiences, and collaboration among fishing and mussel-farming communities, local authorities, and schools, are key components of integrated conservation and health promotion frameworks.
Application of Integrative and Complementary Practices in children by physical therapists: a scoping review
This study aimed to identify, synthesize, and analyze the available scientific knowledge on the use of integrative and complementary practices in pediatric physical therapy. A scoping review was conducted, with searches performed in the National Library of Medicine, SciVerse Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and the Regional Portal of the BVS MTCI Americas, using specific descriptors defined based on the guiding question: “How have Integrative and Complementary Practices regulated by the Federal Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy been used in children within physical therapy?”. A total of 3,026 studies were identified, of which 43 comprised the final sample. The results indicated that most studies addressed manual therapies applied to specific pediatric conditions, with evidence of effectiveness and good acceptance. The most frequently used practices included body-based, manual, and meditative interventions, such as dance therapy, craniosacral therapy, and manual therapy, as well as approaches from Traditional Chinese Medicine, such as acupuncture and auriculotherapy, chiropractic, and osteopathy. It is concluded that Integrative and Complementary Practices have been widely incorporated into pediatric physical therapy treatment, demonstrating proven effectiveness and positive acceptance across different clinical settings.
Renal complications in eating disorders with metabolic risk factors: a systematic review
Bulimia nervosa can have serious physiological and psychological effects in obese patients. Electrolyte disturbances, dehydration, and metabolic burden caused by bulimia nervosa can cause kidney injury. Furthermore, obesity, as an independent risk factor for kidney disease, may exacerbate renal complications in this population. The aim of the present systematic review was to evaluate renal disorders in patients with bulimia nervosa, with particular focus on obese individuals. A total of ten studies (including case reports and observational studies) published between 2001 and 2024 in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were included. The results suggest that the most common pathway of renal injury in bulimia nervosa is chronic hypokalemia and dehydration, which may lead to hypokalemic nephropathy, tubulointerstitial nephritis, and acute or chronic kidney injury. Electrolyte and acid-base disturbances, along with decreased renal function, are frequent, and the risk of chronic kidney disease may be higher in obese patients. Limitations of the available evidence include the predominance of case reports and small observational studies, which restrict generalizability and preclude definitive causal conclusions. These findings highlight the need for cautious clinical monitoring, early renal assessment, and consideration of obesity as a compounding factor in managing patients with bulimia nervosa.
Nutritional profile, working conditions, and musculoskeletal pain among workers in Food and Nutrition Units in Pelotas (RS)
Food and Nutrition Units are characterized by demanding and physically strenuous work, involving repetitive movements, manual handling of loads, and limited conditions of lighting, temperature, and excessive noise. It is important to assess whether these conditions influence workers’ health. Accordingly, this study aimed to analyze dietary intake, nutritional status, and working conditions related to ergonomic aspects among workers from three Food and Nutrition Units in the city of Pelotas, Brazil. This was a cross-sectional, quantitative study using questionnaires to assess dietary intake and environmental conditions, as well as anthropometric measurements (body weight, height, and waist circumference) for nutritional classification based on body mass index (BMI). In Unit A, a higher prevalence of overweight was observed, exceeding the number of eutrophic individuals. Most participants presented altered waist circumference, indicating risk for metabolic syndrome. A total of 19 employees participated; more than half reported engaging in physical activity, with Unit C showing the highest proportion. Regarding the consumption of fresh or minimally processed foods, all workers from Unit B reported daily intake, whereas Unit C showed the lowest consumption. Only in Unit A was there a report of water intake exceeding two liters per day. Concerning working conditions, workers from all three units reported pain or bodily discomfort in the previous seven days and over the past 12 months. In Unit B, three employees required sick leave due to low back pain. Occupational activity may cause physical discomfort, as well as unfavorable ergonomic conditions, and may indirectly influence workers’ nutritional profile.