Epidemiology and Health

Most-read articles are from the articles published in 2023 during the last three month.

Special Articles

Cancer risk based on alcohol consumption levels: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis: Seunghee Jun, Hyunjin Park, Ui-Jeong Kim, Eun Jeong Choi, Hye Ah Lee, Bomi Park, Soon Young Lee, Sun Ha Jee, Hyesook Park; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023092. Published online October 16, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023092

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Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Alcohol consumption is a well-established risk factor for cancer. Despite extensive research into the relationship between alcohol consumption and cancer risk, the effect of light alcohol consumption on cancer risk remains a topic of debate. To contribute to this discourse, we conducted a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

Our systematic review aimed to investigate the associations between different levels of alcohol consumption and the risk of several cancer types. We focused on analyzing prospective associations using data from 139 cohort studies. Among them, 106 studies were included in the meta-analysis after a quantitative synthesis.

RESULTS

Our analysis did not find a significant association between light alcohol consumption and all-cause cancer risk (relative risk, 1.02; 95% confidence interval, 0.99 to 1.04), but we observed a dose-response relationship. Light alcohol consumption was significantly associated with higher risks of esophageal, colorectal, and breast cancers. Light to moderate drinking was associated with elevated risks of esophageal, colorectal, laryngeal, and breast cancers. Heavy drinking was also found to contribute to the risk of stomach, liver, pancreas, and prostate cancers, thereby increasing the risk of almost all types of cancer. Additionally, females generally had lower cancer risks compared to males.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings highlight that cancer risks extend beyond heavy alcohol consumption to include light alcohol consumption as well. These findings suggest that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption associated with cancer risk. Our results underscore the importance of public health interventions addressing alcohol consumption to mitigate cancer risks.

Summary

Korean summary
본 연구는 코호트 연구를 기반으로 하여 음주의 수준에 따른 암 위험 연관성에 대해 체계적 문헌고찰(139편)과 메타분석(106편)을 수행하였다. 연구 결과, 음주와 암 위험 사이에 용량-반응 관계가 나타났으며, 소량의 음주는 암 유형에 따라 차이가 있었으나, 식도암, 대장암, 전립선암(남성), 유방암(여성)에서 암 위험과의 연관성이 있음을 발견했다. 따라서, 암 위험 측면에서 음주에 안전한 수준이 없음을 시사하며, 음주와 관련된 잠재적 피해를 완화하기 위해서는 음주 지침 강화와 같은 공중보건개입이 필요하다.

Key Message
The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between different levels of alcohol consumption and the risk of various cancer types through a systematic review and meta-analysis, providing insights into the ongoing debate about alcohol consumption and cancer causality. The findings support a dose-response relationship between alcohol consumption levels and cancer risk and the light alcohol consumption was associated with risks of esophageal, colorectal, prostate (male), and breast (female) cancer. These results emphasize the absence of a safe threshold for alcohol consumption in terms of cancer risk.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Unraveling the bidirectional link between cancer and dementia and the impact of cancer therapies on dementia risk: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Liwei Ma, Edwin C. K. Tan, Benjamin Goudey, Liang Jin, Yijun Pan
Alzheimer's & Dementia.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Exploring genetic associations of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis with extraintestinal cancers in European and East Asian populations
Chengdong Yu, Jiawei Xu, Siyi Xu, Lei Tang, Qinyuan Han, Xiaoqiang Zeng, Yanxiao Huang, Tenghua Yu, Zhengkui Sun
Frontiers in Immunology.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
The Impact of Tobacco Smoking and Alcohol Consumption on the Development of Gastric Cancers
Waku Hatta, Tomoyuki Koike, Naoki Asano, Yutaka Hatayama, Yohei Ogata, Masahiro Saito, Xiaoyi Jin, Kaname Uno, Akira Imatani, Atsushi Masamune
International Journal of Molecular Sciences.2024; 25(14): 7854. CrossRef
Genetic Heterogeneity Across Dimensions of Alcohol Use Behaviors
Jeanne E. Savage, Peter B. Barr, Tanya Phung, Younga H. Lee, Yingzhe Zhang, Vivia V. McCutcheon, Tian Ge, Jordan W. Smoller, Lea K. Davis, Jacquelyn Meyers, Bernice Porjesz, Danielle Posthuma, Travis T. Mallard, Sandra Sanchez-Roige
American Journal of Psychiatry.2024; 181(11): 1006. CrossRef
To Drink or Not to Drink? Investigating Alcohol’s Impact on Prostate Cancer Risk
Aris Kaltsas, Michael Chrisofos, Evangelos N. Symeonidis, Athanasios Zachariou, Marios Stavropoulos, Zisis Kratiras, Ilias Giannakodimos, Asterios Symeonidis, Fotios Dimitriadis, Nikolaos Sofikitis
Cancers.2024; 16(20): 3453. CrossRef
Factors associated with acquiring exercise habits through health guidance for metabolic syndrome among middle-aged Japanese workers: A machine learning approach
Jiawei Wan, Kyohsuke Wakaba, Takeshi Onoue, Kazuyo Tsushita, Yoshio Nakata
Preventive Medicine Reports.2024; 48: 102915. CrossRef
Development of an algorithm for identifying paraneoplastic ischemic stroke in association with lung, pancreatic, and colorectal cancer
Rebecca Kassubek, Marc-Andre G. R. Winter, Jens Dreyhaupt, Mona Laible, Jan Kassubek, Albert C. Ludolph, Jan Lewerenz
Therapeutic Advances in Neurological Disorders.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Alimentación y cáncer
Carlos A. González Svatetz
FMC - Formación Médica Continuada en Atención Primaria.2024; 31(8): 403. CrossRef
Alcohol consumption and its association with cancer, cardiovascular, liver and brain diseases: a systematic review of Mendelian randomization studies
Naouras Bouajila, Cloé Domenighetti, Henri-Jean Aubin, Mickael Naassila
Frontiers in Epidemiology.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Prévention et dépistage des cancers dans les rhumatismes inflammatoires chroniques
Elodie Mamou, Laetitia Morardet, Djaha Mogni, Bruno Fautrel, Laure Gossec
Revue du Rhumatisme.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Global, regional, and national trends in gastric cancer burden: 1990-2021 and projections to 2040
Tao Zhang, Yiqun Zhang, Xiaofei Leng
Frontiers in Oncology.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Alcohol Consumption and Breast and Ovarian Cancer Development: Molecular Pathways and Mechanisms
Francesca Fanfarillo, Brunella Caronti, Marco Lucarelli, Silvia Francati, Luigi Tarani, Mauro Ceccanti, Maria Grazia Piccioni, Loredana Verdone, Micaela Caserta, Sabrina Venditti, Giampiero Ferraguti, Marco Fiore
Current Issues in Molecular Biology.2024; 46(12): 14438. CrossRef

The Korea National Disability Registration System: Miso Kim, Wonyoung Jung, So Young Kim, Jong Hyock Park, Dong Wook Shin; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023053. Published online May 11, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023053

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Abstract

The Korea National Disability Registration System (KNDRS) was established in 1989 to provide social welfare benefits based on predefined criteria for disability registration and an objective medical assessment using a disability grading system. Disability registration requires (1) a medical examination by a qualified specialist physician and (2) a medical advisory meeting to review the degree of disability. Medical institutions and specialists for the diagnosis of disabilities are legally stipulated, and medical records for a specified period are required to support the diagnosis. The number of disability types has gradually expanded, and 15 disability types have been legally defined. As of 2021, 2.645 million people were registered as disabled, accounting for approximately 5.1% of the total population. Among the 15 disability types, disabilities of the extremities account for the largest proportion (45.1%). Previous studies have investigated the epidemiology of disabilities using data from the KNDRS, combined predominantly with data from the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD). Korea has a mandatory public health insurance system that covers the entire Korean population, and the National Health Insurance Services manages all eligibility information, including disability types and severity ratings. In short, the KNDRS-NHIRD is a significant data resource for research on the epidemiology of disabilities.

Summary

Korean summary
한국에서는 장애의 유형과 장애 유형별 장애정도를 장애인 복지법에서 규정하고 있다. 우리는 한국의 장애등록제도의 역사와 장애등록절차 그리고 장애유형별 통계 현황에 대해서 다루고자 한다.

Key Message
In Korea, the types and severity levels of disabilities are legally defined by the Korea National Disability Registration System (KNDRS). We address the history of the KNDRS, disability registration procedures, and current statistics.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Longitudinal analysis of anxiety and sleep disorders in the Korean population with disabilities, from 2006 to 2017: Incidence, prevalence, and association with disability type and severity
H.-Y. Lee, K.E. Yeob, S.Y. Kim, Y.Y. Kim, J.H. Park
Journal of Affective Disorders.2025; 369: 135. CrossRef
Association between Age-Related Macular Degeneration with Visual Disability and Risk of Dementia: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Ki Young Son, Yong-Jun Choi, Bongseong Kim, Kyungdo Han, Sungsoon Hwang, Wonyoung Jung, Dong Wook Shin, Dong Hui Lim
Journal of the American Medical Directors Association.2025; 26(2): 105392. CrossRef
Increased risk of type 2 diabetes after traumatic amputation: a nationwide retrospective cohort study
Jung Eun Yoo, Dagyeong Lee, Bongseong Kim, Won Hyuk Chang, Sang-Man Jin, Kyungdo Han, Dong Wook Shin
Frontiers in Endocrinology.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Increased Risk of End-Stage Kidney Disease After Traumatic Amputation: Nationwide Cohort Study
Jung Eun Yoo, Bongseong Kim, Won Hyuk Chang, Kyungho Lee, Hye Ryoun Jang, Kyungdo Han, Dong Wook Shin
Healthcare.2025; 13(1): 80. CrossRef
The link between disability and social participation revisited: Heterogeneity by type of social participation and by socioeconomic status
Jinho Kim, Gum-Ryeong Park, Eun Ha Namkung
Disability and Health Journal.2024; 17(2): 101543. CrossRef
Increased Risk of Dementia Following a Diagnosis of Hearing Impairment: A South Korean Nationwide Cohort Study
Minah Park, Sung-In Jang, Kyungduk Hurh, Eun-Cheol Park, Seung Hoon Kim
Journal of Alzheimer's Disease.2024; 97(2): 679. CrossRef
Risk of fracture among patients with spinal cord injury: A nationwide cohort study in South Korea
Seonghye Kim, Bongseong Kim, Kyung-Do Han, Junhee Park, Jung Eun Yoo, Hea Lim Choi, Won Hyuk Chang, In Young Cho, Dong Wook Shin
Bone.2024; 183: 117093. CrossRef
Desafios para inclusão de escolares com deficiência em um estado do brasileiro
Paola Regina Martins Bruno, Graziane Pacini Rodrigues, Damarys Paula Alves Alvim, Francisco Winter dos Santos Figueiredo, Janeisi de Lima Meira, Andreia de Bem Machado, Gabriel Martins Cabral, Fernando Rodrigues Peixoto Quaresma
Cuadernos de Educación y Desarrollo.2024; 16(4): e3840. CrossRef
Korean autistic persons facing systemic stigmatization from middle education schools: daily survival on the edge as a puppet
Wn-ho Yoon, JaeKyung Seo, Cheolung Je
Frontiers in Psychiatry.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Disability acceptance and depressive symptoms: the moderating role of social support
Gum-Ryeong Park, Sujeong Park, Jinho Kim
Disability and Rehabilitation.2024; 46(26): 6424. CrossRef
Impact of a Service-Learning Program Using Soccer Training on the Emotional and Behavioral Problems of Children with Developmental Disabilities
Huan Meng, Yonghwan Kim, Kyujin Lee
Children.2024; 11(4): 467. CrossRef
Risk of Heart Disease in Patients With Amputation: A Nationwide Cohort Study in South Korea
Hea Lim Choi, Jung Eun Yoo, Miso Kim, Bongsung Kim, Junhee Park, Won Hyuk Chang, Heesun Lee, Kyungdo Han, Dong Wook Shin
Journal of the American Heart Association.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Fracture Risk Among Stroke Survivors According to Poststroke Disability Status and Stroke Type
Dagyeong Lee, In Young Cho, Won Hyuk Chang, Jung Eun Yoo, Hea Lim Choi, Junhee Park, Dong Wook Shin, Kyungdo Han
Stroke.2024; 55(6): 1498. CrossRef
Disparities in the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer among patients with disabilities
Ki Bae Kim, Dong Wook Shin, Kyoung Eun Yeob, So Young Kim, Joung-Ho Han, Seon Mee Park, Jong Heon Park, Jong Hyock Park
World Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology.2024; 16(7): 2925. CrossRef
Increased Risk of Fracture after Traumatic Amputation: A Nationwide Retrospective Cohort Study
Hyeonjin Cho, Junhee Park, Bongseong Kim, Kyungdo Han, Hea Lim Choi, Dong Wook Shin
Healthcare.2024; 12(13): 1362. CrossRef
Trends in Physiotherapy Interventions and Medical Costs for Parkinson’s Disease in South Korea, 2011–2020
Dong-Woo Ryu, Jinse Park, Myung Jun Lee, Dallah Yoo, Sang-Myung Cheon
Journal of Movement Disorders.2024; 17(3): 270. CrossRef
COVID-19 and Neurodevelopmental Delays in Early Childhood: A Longitudinal Analysis of Developmental Outcomes in Korean Children
Youn Young Choi, Kyung-Shin Lee, Seul Gi Park, You Sun Kim, Jeehye Lee, Ho Kyung Sung, Myoung-hee Kim
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Risk of depression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A nationwide cohort study in South Korea
Soonwook Kwon, Bongseong Kim, Kyung-Do Han, Wonyoung Jung, Eun Bin Cho, Dong Wook Shin, Ju-Hong Min
Journal of Psychiatric Research.2024; 178: 414. CrossRef
Association between glycemic status and all-cause mortality among individuals with dementia: a nationwide cohort study
Youn Huh, Kye-Yeung Park, Kyungdo Han, Jin-Hyung Jung, Yoon Jeong Cho, Hye Soon Park, Ga Eun Nam, Soo Lim
Alzheimer's Research & Therapy.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
The Association between Healthcare Satisfaction and Social Support and Stress, Depression, and Life Satisfaction in Female Caregivers: The Moderating Role of Dependence of a Sick Child
Jadranka Pavić, Mateja Krznar, Snježana Čukljek, Biserka Sedić, Štefanija Ozimec Vulinec, Irena Kovačević
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2024; 21(9): 1245. CrossRef
Comparison of the risk of noise-induced hearing loss between male police officers and male non-police officers: a nationwide cohort study using propensity score matching in South Korea
Woo-Ri Lee, Kyu-Tae Han, Ki-Bong Yoo, Jin-Ha Yoon
BMC Public Health.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Retinal Vascular Occlusions After COVID-19 Vaccination in South Korea: A Nation-Wide Population-Based Study
Yeji Kim, Kyungdo Han, Jae Hui Kim
Ophthalmic Epidemiology.2024; : 1. CrossRef
Short-Term and Long-Term Risk of Diabetes Mellitus among Patients with Spinal Cord Injury: A Nationwide Retrospective Cohort Study
Seonghye Kim, Kyung-Do Han, Bongseong Kim, Ju-Hong Min, Won Hyuk Chang, In Young Cho, Dong Wook Shin
Healthcare.2024; 12(18): 1859. CrossRef
Intellectual disabilities and risk of cardiovascular diseases: A population-based cohort study
In Young Cho, Hye Yeon Koo, Yoo Jin Um, Yong-Moon Mark Park, Kyung Mee Kim, Chung Eun Lee, Kyungdo Han
Disability and Health Journal.2024; : 101754. CrossRef
Widening disparities in the national prevalence of diabetes mellitus for people with disabilities in South Korea
I. Hwang, S.Y. Kim, Y.Y. Kim, J.H. Park
Public Health.2024; 226: 173. CrossRef
Increased Risk of Myocardial Infarction, Heart Failure, and Atrial Fibrillation After Spinal Cord Injury
Jung Eun Yoo, Miso Kim, Bongseong Kim, Heesun Lee, Won Hyuk Chang, Jeehyun Yoo, Kyungdo Han, Dong Wook Shin
Journal of the American College of Cardiology.2024; 83(7): 741. CrossRef
Beyond the Stereotype: Exploring Monetary Donations and Volunteerism Among People With Disabilities
Jonghwa Lee, Youngeun Son, Ha-Neul Kim
Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Quarterly.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Elevated risk of end-stage kidney disease in stroke patients: A population-based observational study
Sohyun Chun, Kyungdo Han, Bongseong Kim, Dagyeong Lee, In Young Cho, Hea Lim Choi, Jun Hee Park, Junseok Jeon, Hye Ryoun Jang, Dong Wook Shin
International Journal of Stroke.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Caregivers' Awareness and Behavior Impacting the Oral Health of Pediatric and Adolescent Patients with Disabilities
Haesong Kang, Namki Choi, Seonmi Kim
THE JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN ACADEMY OF PEDTATRIC DENTISTRY.2024; 51(4): 459. CrossRef
Longitudinal association between disability and suicide mortality in Republic of Korea
Hwa-Young Lee, Dong Wook Shin, Kyung-Do Han, Ichiro Kawachi
International Journal of Epidemiology.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Increased risk of Parkinson's disease amongst patients with age‐related macular degeneration and visual disability: A nationwide cohort study
Je Moon Yoon, Dong Hui Lim, Jinyoung Youn, Kyungdo Han, Bong Sung Kim, Wonyoung Jung, Yohwan Yeo, Dong Wook Shin, Don‐Il Ham
European Journal of Neurology.2023; 30(9): 2641. CrossRef
Increased risk of myocardial infarction in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A nationwide cohort study in South Korea
Soonwook Kwon, Bongseong Kim, Kyung-Do Han, Wonyoung Jung, Eun Bin Cho, Jeong Hoon Yang, Dong Wook Shin, Ju-Hong Min
Journal of the Neurological Sciences.2023; 454: 120829. CrossRef

Systematic Review

The effectiveness of protein supplementation combined with resistance exercise programs among community-dwelling older adults with sarcopenia: a systematic review and meta-analysis: Phatcharaphon Whaikid, Noppawan Piaseu; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024030. Published online February 14, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024030

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Abstract Summary PDF

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The combination of protein supplementation and resistance exercise shows promise for improving and maintaining muscle mass, strength, and performance in older adults with sarcopenia. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effects of this combination on muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance in community-dwelling older adults with sarcopenia.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive search of 4 electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and the MEDLINE Library. The search covered literature from January 2013 to January 2023 and followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Two independent reviewers assessed the methodological quality of each study using the standard critical appraisal tool from the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). Meta-analysis was performed with the JBI Sumari program.

RESULTS

The review included 7 randomized controlled trials and 1 quasi-experimental study, encompassing a total of 854 participants aged 60 years and above. The study durations ranged from 10 weeks to 24 weeks. An analysis of standardized mean differences (SMDs) showed that protein supplementation combined with resistance exercise significantly increased muscle mass (SMD, 0.95; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.13 to 1.78; p<0.05) and muscle strength (SMD, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.08 to 0.56; p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Although the limited number of randomized controlled trials restricts the robustness of our conclusions, the evidence suggests that protein supplementation combined with resistance exercise is effective in enhancing muscle mass and strength in community-dwelling older adults with sarcopenia.

Summary

Key Message
Sarcopenia is a significant health concern. Given the contextual variations and the diverse factors that contribute to the prevalence of sarcopenia, delivering precision interventions to older adults diagnosed with sarcopenia who still reside in the community poses unique challenges. Therefore, precision interventions are vital for proper and feasible treatment planning, especially for early management actions, to reduce the impact of sarcopenia and its associated adverse effects in older adults. Our systematic review and meta-analysis showed that protein supplementation combined with resistance exercise is effective in enhancing muscle mass and strength in community-dwelling older adults with sarcopenia.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

The Impact of Protein in Post-Menopausal Women on Muscle Mass and Strength: A Narrative Review
Katherine Elizabeth Black, Penelope Matkin-Hussey
Physiologia.2024; 4(3): 266. CrossRef

Original Articles

Homelessness and mortality: gender, age, and housing status inequity in Korea: Gum-Ryeong Park, Dawoon Jeong, Seung Won Lee, Hojoon Sohn, Young Ae Kang, Hongjo Choi; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024076. Published online September 12, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024076

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
We compared mortality rates among various housing statuses within the homeless population and investigated factors contributing to their deaths, including housing status, gender, and age.
METHODS
Using a comprehensive multi-year dataset (n=15,445) curated by the National Tuberculosis Screening and Case Management Programs, matched with the 2019-2021 Vital Statistics Death Database and National Health Insurance claims data, we calculated age-standardized mortality rates and conducted survival analysis to estimate differences in mortality rates based on housing status.
RESULTS
The mortality rate among the homeless population was twice as high as that of the general population, at 1,159.6 per 100,000 compared to 645.8 per 100,000, respectively. Cancer and cardiovascular diseases were the primary causes of death. Furthermore, individuals residing in shelter facilities faced a significantly higher risk of death than those who were rough sleeping, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.70 (95% confidence interval, 1.37 to 2.11). This increased risk was especially pronounced in older adults and women.
CONCLUSIONS
The study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions, as the homeless population faces significantly higher mortality rates. Older adults and women in shelter facilities are at the highest risk.; Summary

Korean summary
전체 인구의 사망률은 큰 폭으로 줄어들면서 홈리스와 전체 인구 간의 사망 불평등이 1.3배에서 1.8배로 증가했다. 특히 쪽방주민이나 거리 홈리스보다 시설 거주 홈리스의 사망 위험이 더 높았으며, 동일 조건하에서 거리 홈리스 대비 약 1.7배 높은 사망 위험을 보였다. 본 연구는 홈리스의 탈시설화를 촉진하는 정책 전환의 필요성을 시사한다.

Key Message
The mortality rate of the general population has significantly declined, leading to an increase in mortality inequality between the homeless and the general population from 1.3 to 1.8 times. In particular, the mortality risk for homeless individuals in facilities was higher than that of those living in jjokbang or on the streets. This study highlights the need for a policy shift to promote deinstitutionalization for the homeless population.

Association of blood pressure measurements in sitting, supine, and standing positions with the 10-year risk of mortality in Korean adults: Inkyung Baik, Nan Hee Kim, Seong Hwan Kim, Chol Shin; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023055. Published online June 8, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023055

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This prospective cohort study investigated the association between blood pressure (BP) as measured in different body postures and all-cause and cardiovascular (CV) mortality risk.

METHODS

This population-based investigation included 8,901 Korean adults in 2001 and 2002. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were measured sequentially in the sitting, supine, and standing positions and classified into 4 categories: (1) normal, SBP <120 mmHg and DBP <80 mmHg; (2) high normal/prehypertension, SBP 120-129 mmHg and DBP <80 mmHg/SBP 130-139 mmHg or DBP 80-89 mmHg; (3) grade 1 hypertension (HTN), with SBP 140-159 mmHg or DBP 90-99 mmHg; and (4) grade 2 HTN, SBP ≥160 mmHg or DBP ≥100 mmHg. The date and cause of individual deaths were confirmed in the death record data compiled until 2013. Data were analyzed using Cox proportional hazard regression.

RESULTS

Significant associations were found between the BP categories and all-cause mortality, but only when BPs were measured in the supine position. The multivariate hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals, [CIs]) were 1.36 (95% CI, 1.06 to 1.75) and 1.59 (95% CI, 1.06 to 2.39) for grade 1 HTN and grade 2 HTN, respectively, compared with the normal category. The associations between the BP categories and CV mortality were significant regardless of body posture among participants ≥65 years, whereas they were significant for supine BP measurements only in those <65 years.

CONCLUSIONS

BP measured in the supine position predicted all-cause mortality and CV mortality better than BP measured in other postures.

Summary

Korean summary
본 역학 연구는 한국 성인 8,901명을 연구대상자로 하여 기초조사에서 세가지 자세, 즉 앉은 자세, 누운 자세, 일어선 자세에서 혈압을 측정하고, 이후 10년 동안의 사망 여부를 추적조사하여, 측정 자세에 따른 혈압과 사망 위험과의 관련성을 분석하였다. 그 결과, 누운 자세에서 측정된 고혈압(기준: 수축기 혈압이 140 mmHg 이상 혹은 이완기 혈압이 90 mmHg 이상)인 사람은 정상 혈압(기준: 수축기 혈압이 120 mmHg 미만이고 이완기 혈압이 80 mmHg 미만)인 사람에 비해 36%(1단계 고혈압) 혹은 59%(2단계 고혈압) 가량 총 사망 위험이 유의적으로 증가하는 것으로 나타났다. 이에 비해, 앉은 자세 및 일어선 자세에서 측정, 정의된 고혈압은 총 사망 위험을 증가시켰지만 유의적인 결과를 나타내지 못했다. 추후 연구에서 재확인이 필요하지만, 본 연구 결과가 시사하는 바는 앉은 자세나 일어선 자세보다 누운 자세에서 측정하는 혈압이 총 사망 위험을 더 잘 예측하므로, 고혈압 진단 외의 추가적인 활용 가능성이 있는 것으로 평가된다.

Key Message
The current epidemiological study revealed that blood pressure measured in a supine position could predict all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality better than blood pressure measured in a sitting or standing position. As a result, blood pressure measurements in a supine position may be useful in assessing mortality risk.

Citations

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Safety of midodrine in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: a retrospective cohort study
Ming-Ju Wu, Cheng-Hsu Chen, Shang-Feng Tsai
Frontiers in Pharmacology.2024;[Epub] CrossRef

Comparative analysis of body mass index and obesity-related anthropometric indices for mortality prediction: a study of the Namwon and Dong-gu cohort in Korea: Ye Rim Kim, Min-Ho Shin, Young-Hoon Lee, Seong-Woo Choi, Hae-Sung Nam, Jeong-Ho Yang, Sun-Seog Kweon; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024066. Published online July 17, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024066

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Abstract Summary PDF

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study investigated the associations between several obesity-related anthropometric indices and mortality in middle-aged and elderly populations to compare the indices’ predictive ability with that of the body mass index (BMI).

METHODS

We analyzed data on 12 indices calculated from 19,805 community-based cohort participants (average age, 63.27 years; median follow-up, 13.49 years). Each index was calculated using directly measured values of height, weight, waist circumference (WC), and hip circumference (HC). We calculated hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each index using Cox regression and evaluated mortality prediction with the Harrell concordance index (c-index).

RESULTS

Adding anthropometric indices to the basic mortality model (c-index, 0.7723; 95% CI, 0.7647 to 0.7799) significantly increased the predictive power of BMI (c-index, 0.7735; 95% CI, 0.7659 to 0.7811), a body shape index (ABSI; c-index, 0.7735; 95% CI, 0.7659 to 0.7810), weight-adjusted waist index (WWI; c-index, 0.7731; 95% CI, 0.7656 to 0.7807), and waist to hip index (WHI; c-index, 0.7733; 95% CI, 0.7657 to 0.7809). The differences between the BMI model and the other 3 models were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

In predicting all-cause mortality, the ABSI, WWI, and WHI models based on WC or HC had stronger predictive power than conventional risk factors but were not significantly different from the BMI model.

Summary

Korean summary
- 다수의 비만관련 신체계측지표들이 사망률을 유의하게 예측하였지만 체질량지수보다 통계적으로 우월하지는 않았다. - 복부둘레가 고려된 비만지표들이 사망률예측에 더 유용할 것으로 추정된다.

Key Message
- Several obesity indices provided predictive value for all-cause mortality but were not superior to body mass index - Obesity indices that take abdominal circumference into account are likely to be more useful for predicting mortality.

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Accumulated subcutaneous fat in abdomen is associated with long COVID-19 symptoms among non-hospitalized patients: a prospective observational study
Tingxin Li, Baoming He, Yuping Liu, Chen Wang
Frontiers in Medicine.2024;[Epub] CrossRef

Systematic Review

Tea consumption and risk of all-cause, cardiovascular disease, and cancer mortality: a meta-analysis of thirty-eight prospective cohort data sets: Youngyo Kim, Youjin Je; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024056. Published online June 21, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024056

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Tea consumption has been considered beneficial to human health because tea contains phytochemicals such as polyphenols and theaflavins. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis on the association between tea consumption and mortality from all causes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and cancer to provide a quantitative assessment of current evidence.

METHODS

The PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched through April 2024 to identify eligible studies. Random effects models were used to combine study-specific effect estimates (ESs).

RESULTS

A total of 38 prospective cohort data sets (from 27 papers) with 1,956,549 participants were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled ESs of the highest versus lowest categories of tea consumption were 0.90 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.86 to 0.95) for all-cause mortality, 0.86 (95% CI, 0.79 to 0.94) for CVD mortality, and 0.90 (95% CI, 0.78 to 1.03) for cancer mortality. In the dose-response analysis, a non-linear association was observed. The greatest risk reductions were observed for the consumption of 2.0 cup/day for all-cause mortality (ES, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.88 to 0.94) and 1.5 cup/day for cancer mortality (ES, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.89 to 0.96), whereas additional consumption did not show a further reduction in the risk of death. A plateau was observed for CVD mortality at moderate consumption levels (1.5-3.0 cup/day), but a sustained reduction in mortality risk was observed at higher intake levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Moderate tea consumption (e.g., 1.5-2.0 cup/day) was associated with lower all-cause, CVD, and cancer mortality compared to no tea consumption. Further well-designed prospective studies are needed for a definitive conclusion.

Summary

Korean summary
차는 전세계적으로 널리 소비되는 음료로 그 공중보건학적 영향력이 크다. 차의 섭취와 만성질환의 관련성은 아직 일관성 있게 결론이 나지 않았는데 최근에 이 주제에 대하여 대규모의 코호트 연구 결과들이 발표된 바 있었다. 38개의 코호트 데이터에 근거한 본 메타분석의 결과는 하루 한 잔 반에서 두 잔의 차를 마시는 것이 총사망위험과 심혈관계질환이나 암으로 인한 사망 위험을 낮추는 것과 관계가 있음을 나타내고 있다.

Key Message
Tea is a commonly consumed beverage worldwide and has a significant public health impact. The association between tea consumption and risk of mortality from chronic disease remains inconsistent, and extensive cohort studies have been published recently. In this meta-analysis, including thirty-eight cohort studies, people who drank one and a half to two cups of tea daily had a lower risk of mortality from all causes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer than those who drank less tea.

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Molecular mechanisms of action of DIM and its clinical application
E. A. Nikitina, S. V. Orlova, T. T. Batysheva, N. V. Balashova, M. V. Alekseeva, A. N. Vodolazkaya, E. V. Prokopenko, Kh. A. Magomedova
Medical alphabet.2024; (19): 9. CrossRef

Brief Communication

The association between employee lifestyles and the rates of mental health-related absenteeism and turnover in Japanese companies: Atsuya Fujimoto, Hiroshi Kanegae, Kaori Kitaoka, Mizuki Ohashi, Kunio Okada, Koichi Node, Kenkichi Takase, Hiroshi Fukuda, Tomoyuki Miyazaki, Yuichiro Yano; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024068. Published online August 2, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024068

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Abstract PDF: Abstract
We assessed the association of employee lifestyles (e.g., smoking, exercise, drinking, and sleep habits) with mental health-related absenteeism and turnover rates utilizing data from the annual Health and Productivity Management survey by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. This analysis included data from 1,748 companies, encompassing 4,199,021 employees. The average proportions of mental health-related absenteeism and employee turnover rates were 1.1±1.0% and 5.0±5.0%, respectively. In multivariable regression models that incorporated all lifestyle factors and confounders, a 1 percentage point increase in the proportion of employees who slept well was associated with reductions in their turnover rate (mean, -0.020%; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.038 to -0.002) and in mental health-related absenteeism (mean, -0.005%; 95% CI, -0.009 to 0.001). A similar increase in the proportion of employees engaging in regular physical activity corresponded with a 0.005% decrease in the prevalence of mental health-related absenteeism (95% CI, -0.010 to -0.001). A 1 percentage point increase in the proportion of employees who smoked was associated with a 0.013% reduction in mental health-related absenteeism (95% CI, -0.017 to -0.008). Nonetheless, the current study’s observational and cross-sectional design restricted the ability to establish causality between employee lifestyle factors and mental health issues.; Summary

Original Article

Causal effect of serum matrix metalloproteinase levels on venous thromboembolism: a Mendelian randomization study: Deheng Han, Fangcong Yu, Liangrong Zheng; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024046. Published online April 7, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024046

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Serum matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) levels are associated with cardiovascular diseases. However, the causal associations between serum levels of specific MMPs and venous thromboembolism (VTE) remain unclear. The present study sought to explore the causal relationship between serum MMP levels and VTE by using the Mendelian randomization (MR) method.

METHODS

In this study 2-sample MR study, the exposure data on serum MMP levels were derived from genome-wide association studies involving 21,758 individuals from 13 cohorts of European descent. The outcome data on VTE, including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, were derived from the FinnGen research project. The primary method used was the inverse-variance weighting method. The MR-Egger intercept test and the Cochran Q test were used to evaluate pleiotropy and heterogeneity.

RESULTS

Using the inverse-variance weighting method, higher serum MMP-12 levels were found to be associated with an increased risk of VTE (odds ratio, 1.04; 95% confidence interval, 1.01 to 1.07; p=0.001). Moreover, there was a weak association between the levels of certain MMPs and VTE. Sensitivity analyses revealed no significant heterogeneity and pleiotropy in our study, and the Steiger directionality test did not reveal a significant reverse causation association.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a causal association between MMP-12 levels and VTE, which may have substantial implications for the diagnostic and therapeutic strategies used for VTE.

Summary

Key Message
We found that there is a causal association between matrix metalloproteinase-12 levels and venous thromboembolism. Serum matrix metalloproteinase may have profound implications on the diagnostic andtherapeutic strategies used for venous thromboembolism.

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Causal relationship between matrix metalloproteinase and pulmonary embolism: a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Xiaowei Gong, Yadong Yuan
Scientific Reports.2025;[Epub] CrossRef

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.

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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

The associations of cardiovascular and lifestyle factors with mortality from chronic kidney disease as the underlying cause: the JACC study: Shuai Guo, Tomoko Sankai, Kazumasa Yamagishi, Tomomi Kihara, Akiko Tamakoshi, Hiroyasu Iso, for the JACC Study Group; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024077. Published online September 13, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024077

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Abstract PDF: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
This study investigated conventional cardiovascular and lifestyle risk factors affecting mortality from chronic kidney disease as the underlying cause in the general Japanese population.
METHODS
We conducted an 18.8-year follow-up study of 44,792 men and 61,522 women aged 40-79 from the Japan Collaborative Cohort Study for Evaluation of Cancer Risk between 1986 and 1990. Cox proportional hazard models were used to analyze the association between risk factors and mortality from chronic kidney disease.
RESULTS
During the follow-up period, 373 participants (185 men and 188 women) died from chronic kidney disease. A body mass index of ≥27.0 kg/m<sup>2</sup> (hazard ratio [HR], 2.00; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.19 to 3.36 for men and HR, 1.91; 95% CI, 1.19 to 3.07 for women, compared with 23.0-24.9 kg/m2), a history of hypertension (HR, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.67 to 3.22 for men and HR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.44 to 2.81 for women) and a history of diabetes mellitus (HR, 5.21; 95% CI, 3.68 to 7.37 for men and HR, 7.10; 95% CI, 4.93 to 10.24 for women) were associated with an increased risk of mortality from chronic kidney disease in both genders. In men, smoking was also associated with an increased risk (HR, 1.91; 95% CI, 1.25 to 2.90), while current drinking (HR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.34 to 0.98 for <23 g/day; HR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.29 to 0.80 for 23-45 g/day and HR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.32 to 0.86 for ≥46 g/day) and exercising ≥5 hr/wk (HR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.18 to 0.96) were associated with a lower risk. Similar but non-significant associations for smoking and drinking were observed in women.
CONCLUSIONS
In addition to a history of hypertension and a history of diabetes mellitus, body mass index, smoking status, drinking status, and exercise habits were associated with the risk of mortality from chronic kidney disease.; Summary

The association between migraine and Parkinson’s disease: a nationwide cohort study in Korea: Woo-Seok Ha, Jaeho Kim, Hee Won Hwang, Sue Hyun Lee, Ji In Kim, Jin Yong Hong, Sang Hyun Park, Kyung Do Han, Min Seok Baek; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024010. Published online December 18, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024010

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Clinical studies have suggested an association between migraine and the occurrence of Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, it is unknown whether migraine affects PD risk. We aimed to investigate the incidence of PD in patients with migraine and to determine the risk factors affecting the association between migraine and PD incidence.
METHODS
Using the Korean National Health Insurance System database (2002-2019), we enrolled all Koreans aged ≥40 years who participated in the national health screening program in 2009. International Classification of Diseases (10th revision) diagnostic codes and Rare Incurable Diseases System diagnostic codes were used to define patients with migraine (within 12 months of enrollment) and newly diagnosed PD.
RESULTS
We included 214,193 patients with migraine and 5,879,711 individuals without migraine. During 9.1 years of follow-up (55,435,626 person-years), 1,973 (0.92%) and 30,664 (0.52%) individuals with and without migraine, respectively, were newly diagnosed with PD. Following covariate adjustment, patients with migraine showed a 1.35-fold higher PD risk than individuals without migraine. The incidence of PD was not significantly different between patients with migraine with aura and those without aura. In males with migraine, underlying dyslipidemia increased the risk of PD (p=0.012). In contrast, among females with migraine, younger age (<65 years) increased the risk of PD (p=0.038).
CONCLUSIONS
Patients with migraine were more likely to develop PD than individuals without migraine. Preventive management of underlying comorbidities and chronic migraine may affect the incidence of PD in these patients. Future prospective randomized clinical trials are warranted to clarify this association.; Summary

Korean summary
편두통 환자들은 편두통이 없는 이들보다 장기적으로 파킨슨병이 발병할 위험이 더 높습니다. 더불어, 이 관계는 편두통의 아형(전조 vs. 무전조)보다는 편두통의 빈도(삽화성 vs. 만성)와 더 밀접한 연관성을 갖는 것으로 보입니다.

Key Message
Patients with migraine are more likely to develop Parkinson’s disease than individuals without migraine. Furthermore, this association appears to be more strongly linked to the frequency of migraines (episodic vs. chronic) rather than the subtype of migraine (with aura vs. without aura).

Associations of the magnesium depletion score and magnesium intake with diabetes among US adults: an analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011-2018: Zhong Tian, Shifang Qu, Yana Chen, Jiaxin Fang, Xingxu Song, Kai He, Kexin Jiang, Xiaoyue Sun, Jianyang Shi, Yuchun Tao, Lina Jin; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024020. Published online January 10, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024020

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The magnesium depletion score (MDS) is considered more reliable than traditional approaches for predicting magnesium deficiency in humans. We explored the associations of MDS and dietary magnesium intake with diabetes.

METHODS

We obtained data from 18,853 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011-2018. Using multivariate regression and stratified analysis, we investigated the relationships of both MDS and magnesium intake with diabetes. To compute prevalence ratios (PRs), we employed modified Poisson or log-binomial regression. We characterized the non-linear association between magnesium intake and diabetes using restricted cubic spline analysis.

RESULTS

Participants with MDS ≥2 exhibited a PR of 1.26 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.19 to 1.34) for diabetes. Per-standard deviation (SD) increase in dietary magnesium intake was associated with a lower prevalence of diabetes (PR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.87 to 0.96). Subgroup analyses revealed a positive association between MDS ≥2 and diabetes across all levels of dietary magnesium intake, including the lowest (PR, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.18 to 1.55), middle (PR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.12 to 1.35), and highest tertiles (PR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.13 to 1.37; pinteraction<0.001). Per-SD increase in magnesium intake was associated with lower diabetes prevalence in participants with MDS <2 (PR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.87 to 0.98) and those with MDS ≥2 (PR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.84 to 0.98; pinteraction=0.030).

CONCLUSIONS

MDS is associated with diabetes, particularly among individuals with low magnesium intake. Adequate dietary magnesium intake may reduce diabetes risk, especially in those with high MDS.

Summary

Key Message
The relationship between magnesium intake and risk is currently understudied in the field of diabetes prevention. The study found that magnesium deficiency is associated with diabetes risk, especially in people with low magnesium intake. Dietary magnesium supplementation may reduce risk and provide a new strategy for diabetes prevention. This study fills this knowledge gap and is important for scientific understanding of diabetes pathogenesis and epidemiological prevention and control.

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Magnesium Depletion Score and Mortality in Individuals with Metabolic Dysfunction Associated Steatotic Liver Disease over a Median Follow-Up of 26 Years
Lei Fan, Xiangzhu Zhu, Xinyuan Zhang, Shakirat Salvador, Xuehong Zhang, Martha J. Shrubsole, Manhal J. Izzy, Qi Dai
Nutrients.2025; 17(2): 244. CrossRef
Magnesium Matters: A Comprehensive Review of Its Vital Role in Health and Diseases
Ghizal Fatima, Andrej Dzupina, Hekmat B Alhmadi, Aminat Magomedova, Zainab Siddiqui, Ammar Mehdi, Najah Hadi
Cureus.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Magnesium depletion score and depression: a positive correlation among US adults
Wei Zhao, Hai Jin
Frontiers in Public Health.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Magnesium depletion score and gout: insights from NHANES data
Xu Cao, Haixia Feng, Huijie Wang
Frontiers in Nutrition.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Association between magnesium depletion score and the prevalence of kidney stones in the low primary income ratio: a cross-sectional study of NHANES 2007–2018
Jiahao Wang, Yunfei Xiao, Yaqing Yang, Shan Yin, Jianwei Cui, Ke Huang, Jia Wang, Yunjin Bai
International Journal of Surgery.2024; 110(12): 7636. CrossRef

Changes in mental health service utilization before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a nationwide database analysis in Korea: Kyoung Hoon Kim, Sang Min Lee, Minha Hong, Kyu-Man Han, Jong-Woo Paik; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023022. Published online February 14, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023022

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The present study examined the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on mental health service utilization through a comparative analysis of nationwide data regarding inpatient care users, outpatient visits, emergency department (ED) visits, and admissions via the ED before and during the pandemic.

METHODS

Data from approximately 350,000 Koreans diagnosed with mental illness were analyzed in terms of hospitalization, outpatient visits, and ED visits between January 2018 and June 2021. An interrupted time series analysis was conducted to determine the significance of changes in mental health service utilization indicators.

RESULTS

The number of hospital admissions per patient decreased by 1.2% at the start of the pandemic and 0.7% afterward. The length of hospital stay increased by 1.8% at the outbreak of the pandemic, and then decreased by 20.2%. Although the number of outpatients increased, the number of outpatient visits per patient decreased; the number of outpatient visits for schizophrenia (3.4%) and bipolar disorder (3.5%) significantly decreased immediately post-outbreak. The number of ED visits per patient decreased both immediately post-outbreak and afterward, and ED visits for schizophrenia (19.2%), bipolar disorder (22.3%), and depression (17.4%) decreased significantly immediately post-outbreak. Admissions via the ED did not show a significant change immediately post-outbreak.

CONCLUSIONS

Mental health service utilization increased during the pandemic, but medical service use decreased overall, with a particularly significant decrease in ED utilization. As the pandemic worsened, the decline in outpatient visits became more pronounced among those with severe mental illness.

Summary

Korean summary
이 연구는 COVID-19 전후 정신질환 의료서비스 이용 변화를 분석하였다. 팬데믹 기간 중에 정신질환 의료서비스는 전반적으로 감소하였고, 특히 중증 정신질환의 외래 방문이 감소하였다. 따라서, 정신질환자의 진료 연속성을 보장하기 위한 조치가 요구된다.

Key Message
This study examined the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health service utilization. The mental health service utilization decreased overall after the outbreak of COVID-19, especially outpatient visits for severe mental illness significantly decreased. Therefore, countermeasures are needed to maintain the continuity of care.

Citations

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Adult Mental Health Presentations to Emergency Departments in Victoria, Australia between January 2018 and October 2020: Changes Associated with COVID-19 Pandemic Public Health Restrictions
Jackson Newberry-Dupé, Wanyu Chu, Simon Craig, Rohan Borschmann, Gerard O’Reilly, Paul Yates, Glenn Melvin, Kylie King, Harriet Hiscock
Psychiatric Quarterly.2024; 95(1): 33. CrossRef
Incidence of Panic Disorder Diagnoses After Celebrity Disclosures of Panic Disorder in South Korea
Ga Eun Kim, Min-Woo Jo, Young Eun Kim, Seok-Jun Yoon, Yong-Wook Shin
JAMA Network Open.2024; 7(7): e2420934. CrossRef
Stigma Experience and Mental Health of Vulnerable Groups: Focusing on the COVID-19 Period
Sung Moon Choi, Jong-Woo Paik, Myung Jae Paik, Jin Hee Hyun, Sung Eun You, Ah Rah Lee, Sang Min Lee
Journal of Korean Neuropsychiatric Association.2024; 63(4): 225. CrossRef
Changes in psychiatric disorder incidence patterns during the COVID-19 pandemic in Korea: a study using the nationwide universal health insurance data
Changwoo Han, Juho Choi, Hoyeon Jang, Hwa-Young Lee, Tarik Benmarhnia, Juhwan Oh
BMC Psychiatry.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on access to mental health services and socioeconomic inequalities in Italy
Alessio Petrelli, Martina Ventura, Roberta Ciampichini, Anteo Di Napoli, Valeria Fano, Christian Napoli, Martina Pacifici, Claudio Rosini, Caterina Silvestri, Fabio Voller, Alberto Zucchi, Massimiliano Aragona
Frontiers in Psychiatry.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Trends in telemedicine utilization for mental illness during the COVID-19 pandemic: an analysis of a nationwide database in Korea
Kyoung Hoon Kim, Sang Min Lee, Minha Hong, Kyu-Man Han, Jong-Woo Paik
BMC Psychiatry.2023;[Epub] CrossRef
Admissions to psychiatric inpatient services and use of coercive measures in 2020 in a Swiss psychiatric department: An interrupted time-series analysis
Alexandre Wullschleger, Leonel Gonçalves, Maya Royston, Othman Sentissi, Julia Ambrosetti, Stefan Kaiser, Stéphanie Baggio, Jahida Gulshan
PLOS ONE.2023; 18(7): e0289310. CrossRef

Associations between digital media use and lack of physical exercise among middle-school adolescents in Korea: Gyeongmin Kim, Hyunsuk Jeong, Hyeon Woo Yim; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023012. Published online January 10, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023012

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The reported effects of digital media overuse on physical activity among adolescents are inconsistent. This study examined the association between hours of digital media use and lack of moderate-intensity physical exercise (mPE) according to the type of digital media.

METHODS

This study included 1,837 middle school students from the iCURE (Internet user Cohort for Unbiased Recognition of gaming disorder in Early Adolescence) study conducted in Korea. Hours spent using digital media were measured by self-reported daily usage time for Internet games, messengers, social media, and watching game streaming on weekdays. Lack of mPE was defined as performing a minimum of 30 minutes at a time less than twice weekly. Multivariable logistic regression analysis stratified by sex was performed.

RESULTS

Among male students, the group with the highest hours of using either Internet games or watching game streaming was more likely to lack mPE than each non-user group. In contrast, among male students, the group using either messengers or social media had a higher rate of mPE compared to each non-user group. Female students showed no association between hours spent using Internet games, messengers, social media, or watching game streaming and a lack of mPE.

CONCLUSIONS

Among male middle school students in Korea, the excessive use of Internet games or watching game streaming was associated with a lack of mPE. Thus, guidelines should be established regarding adolescent use of internet games and watching game streaming.

Summary

Korean summary
한국에서 남, 여 중학생을 대상으로 4개 인터넷 매체(인터넷 게임, 메신저, 소셜미디어, 게임 스트리밍 시청) 과다사용과 신체 운동 부재와의 연관성을 알아보기 위한 단면조사 연구를 시행하였다. 남자 중학생에서 인터넷 게임 사용 또는 게임 스트리밍 시청 시간이 가장 높은 사분위 그룹은 비이용 그룹보다 중간 강도의 신체운동 부재율이 유의하게 높았다.

Key Message
A cross-sectional study was conducted to find out the relationship between excessive use of four Internet media (internet games, messengers, social media, and game streaming) and lack of physical exercise targeting male and female middle school students in Korea. Among male middle school students, the upper quartile group with the highest Internet game use or game streaming viewing time had a significantly higher moderate-intensity physical exercise absence rate than the non-use group.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

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