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Copyright of Annali di Igiene, Medicina Preventiva e di Comunità is the property of Societa Editrice Universo s.r.l. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study aimed to investigate the frequency of electronic cigarette smoking and its related factors among medical students. A descriptive-cross-section al online survey was administered to medical students (n = 767) enrolled at the Kırşehır Ahı Evran University Faculty of Medicine. Of those who participated in the study, 25.6% stated that they were using or had tried electronic cigarettes and 26.59% stated that they were active smokers. Among the students in our sample, age 21 and below (odds ratio: 5.051, 95% confidence interval: 1.584-16.101), being male (odds ratio: 6.972, 95% confidence interval: 2.870-30.335), a close friend (odds ratio: 3.989, %95 confidence interval: 1.505-10.570) or one of the parents using electronic cigarettes (odds ratio: 9.177, %95 confidence interval: 1.661-50.692) were found to increase the risk of electronic cigarette use. As the use and popularity of electronic cigarettes is increasing, the lack of knowledge among medical students on this subject reveals the need to improve the medical school curriculum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microscopic colitis (MC) is classified as collagenous colitis (CC) and lymphocytic colitis (LC). Genetic associations between CC and human leucocyte antigens (HLAs) have been found, with smoking being a predisposing external factor. Smoking has a great impact on metabolomics. The aim of this explorative study was to analyze global metabolomics in MC and to examine whether the metabolomic profile differed regarding the type and course of MC, the presence of IBS-like symptoms, treatment, and smoking habits. Of the 240 identified women with MC aged ≤73 years, 131 completed the study questionnaire; the Rome III questionnaire; and the Visual Analog Scale for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (VAS-IBS). Blood samples were analyzed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatograph mass spectrometry (UHLC-MS/UHPLC-MSMS). The women, 63.1 (58.7–67.2) years old, were categorized based on CC (n = 76) and LC (n = 55); one episode or refractory MC; IBS-like symptoms or not; use of corticosteroids or not; and smoking habits. The only metabolomic differences found in the univariate model after adjustment for false discovery rate (FDR) were between smokers and non-smokers. Serotonin was markedly increased in smokers (p < 0.001). No clear patterns appeared when conducting a principal component analysis (PCA). No differences in the metabolomic profile were found depending on the type or clinical course of the disease, neither in the whole MC group nor in the subgroup analysis of CC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Smoking habits have widely changed over time; however, they remain a well-known fashion that risks people's health. In addition, nicotine addiction depends on the interplay between several factors. Our study aimed to understand the smoking habits and nicotine dependence in the Lebanese population before (September 2019) and during (June 2020) the economic crisis and COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This observational cross-sectional survey-based study included 1560 Lebanese individuals aged between 13 and 75 years old from June till October 2020. Data collection was performed through an electronic survey including patients' demographics and validated instruments to assess addiction to nicotine (CAGE, Four C's, Fagerström test, and Smoker's profile scores). Results: Out of 1560 participants, 794 (50.9%) were males. The mean age was 26.5 ± 11.69 years, and 67.8% were aged between 18 and 25 years old. We found that 865 (55.4%) participants were smokers. In addition, smoking cigarettes or vaping, significantly increased between September 2019 and June 2020. Our smoker group showed a high CAGE positivity (P <.001), marked compulsion (P <.001), and a considerable lack of self-control to surcease smoking (P <.001). Furthermore, the nicotine dependence score (NDS) increased with age (B =.166) and decreased with higher educational levels (B = −.219). Conclusion: During the economic crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, the Lebanese population showed an increased prevalence of smoking, a high level of CAGE positivity, strong compulsion, and a significant lack of self-control when it came to quitting smoking. This strongly entails public health measures for smoking cessation through national awareness campaigns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Microscopic colitis (MC) is considered a chronic disease associated with autoimmune disease, smoking, and drugs. The aim was to examine the association between MC and celiac disease, adjusted for smoking, considering subtypes and clinical course of the disease in a retrospectively collected female cohort. Methods Women (n = 240), ≤ 73 years, diagnosed as MC in medical records or pathological registers were invited. One hundred and fifty-eight women accepted to be included. Participants completed a study questionnaire about sociodemographic factors, lifestyle habits, and medical history; the Rome III questionnaire; and the visual analog scale for irritable bowel syndrome (VAS-IBS). Participants were categorized into collagenous colitis (CC) (n = 92) and lymphocytic colitis (LC) (n = 66) or MC with one episode of the disease (n = 70) and refractory MC (n = 88). Presence of IBS-like symptoms were noted. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for anti-transglutaminase antibodies. Differences between groups were calculated and logistic regression was adjusted for smoking habits. Results MC and celiac disease debuted simultaneously in half of the cases. Celiac disease was most prevalent in LC (12.1% vs. 3.3%; p = 0.05) and MC with one episode (12.9% vs. 2.3%; p = 0.01). Anti-transglutaminase antibodies were found in one patient with one episode of MC. Corticosteroid use was most often found in CC (37.0% vs. 21.2%; p = 0.037) and refractory MC (38.6% vs. 20.0%; p = 0.015). Past smokers were most prevalent in patients with one episode of MC (54.3 vs. 29.5%; p = 0.007). Current smoking was the smoking habit with highest prevalence of IBS-like symptoms. When adjusted for smoking habits, celiac disease was associated with LC (OR: 4.222; 95% CI: 1.020–17.469; p = 0.047) and tended to be inversely associated with refractory MC (OR: 0.210; 95% CI: 0.042–1.506; p = 0.058). Conclusion Celiac disease is most common in patients with one episode of LC. The question remains whether LC in combination with celiac disease should be classified as celiac disease or two different entities.

Abstract Background Dietary habits are crucial for maintaining overall health and have been shown to impact academic performance. However, little research has been conducted on the specific eating, drinking, and smoking habits during the exam period and their effect on academic performance. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate dietary and smoking habits and their relationship with academic performance among medical students at Damascus University. Findings from this study can inform interventions to improve both dietary habits and academic performance. Methods A cross-sectional design was used to investigate the association between dietary habits during the exam period and academic performance among 608 medical students. Data were collected using a self-administered paper-based questionnaire that was randomly distributed across multiple classes. The statistical analysis employed Spearman’s rank correlation and multiple linear regression to examine the relationship between the different amounts of diet behaviour during the exams and the reported average students’ grades from the last two semesters. The regression model was adjusted for age, sex, residency type, and residency partners. Results In both Spearman's rank correlation and multiple linear regression analyses, we observed consistent negative associations between specific dietary habits and self-reported average grades. These included daily consumption of tea (B = -0.334, p = 0.022), instant coffee (B = -0.682, p = 0.001), and weekly fast food consumption (B = -0.583, p = 0.038). Notably, traditional coffee was found to be significant in the Spearman analysis but did not exhibit significance in the regression analysis. Furthermore, the regression analysis revealed a negative association between water pipe consumption and academic performance (B = -0.700, p = 0.049). No significant association was observed between other dietary habits, cigarette smoking, and academic performance. Conclusions The study highlights a negative, but weak, association between academic achievement and specific dietary habits during the exam period. However, further longitudinal studies are needed to establish causal relationships. Additionally, the study suggests exploring the impact of other habits such as study and sleeping habits, which may have a more significant impact on academic achievement.

Background Survivors of stroke, particularly the older population, are at an increased risk of falls and incident fractures. Smoking is a widely recognized risk factor for fractures. However, the association between changes in smoking habits before and after an index stroke and increased risk of fracture remains unelucidated. Methods and Results Using the Korean National Health Insurance program, patients with ischemic stroke between 2010 and 2016 were enrolled. Individuals were classified by smoking habits: “never smoker,” “former smoker,” “smoking quitter,” “new smoker,” and “sustained smoker.” The primary outcome was the composite outcome of the vertebral, hip, and any fractures. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was conducted, using the never‐smoker group as the reference. Among 177 787 patients with health screening data within 2 years before and after ischemic stroke, 14 991 (8.43%) patients had any fractures. After multivariable adjustment, the sustained smokers had a significantly increased risk of composite primary outcomes of any, vertebral, and hip fractures (adjusted HR [aHR], 1.222 [95% CI, 1.124–1.329]; aHR, 1.27 [95% CI, 1.13–1.428]; aHR, 1.502 [95% CI, 1.218–1.853], respectively). Additionally, the new smoker group exhibited a similar or higher risk of any fractures and hip fractures (aHR, 1.218 [95% CI, 1.062–1.397]; aHR, 1.772 [95% CI, 1.291–2.431], respectively). Conclusions Sustained smokers had a significantly increased risk of vertebral and hip fractures after an ischemic stroke. The risk of any hip fractures was higher in new smokers after ischemic stroke. As poststroke fractures are detrimental to the rehabilitation process of patients with stroke, physicians should actively advise patients to stop smoking.

Background: Preventive cardiology aims to educate patients about risk factors and the importance of mitigating them through lifestyle adjustments and medications. However, long-term adherence to recommended interventions remains a significant challenge. This study explores how physician counselling contributes to successful behavior changes in various aspects of lifestyle. Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted in Greece in 2022–2023 included 1988 participants. Validated questionnaires assessed patients' characteristics, dietary habits, and lifestyle choices. Results: The findings revealed that patients who received lifestyle advice from physicians demonstrated increased compliance with the Mediterranean diet and a higher involvement in physical activity. Notably, they were also less likely to be non-smokers. Importantly, physicians' recommendations had a more pronounced association with adherence level to the Mediterranean diet compared to other lifestyle behaviors. Additionally, specific dietary components like cereal, legume, and red meat consumption were significantly associated with physicians' guidance. Conclusions: This study highlights the complex relationship between patients' cardiometabolic health, lifestyle decisions, and healthcare professionals' guidance. The substantial influence of physicians on Mediterranean diet adherence underscores the necessity for a multidisciplinary healthcare approach. Collaborative efforts involving physicians, dietitians, and fitness experts can offer comprehensive support to patients in navigating the intricate landscape of cardiometabolic health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic created a significant crisis in global health. The aim of the study was to compare the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on self-rated health status and smoking and alcohol habits. The Bialystok PLUS cohort study was conducted in 2018–2022. A total of 1222 randomly selected city residents were examined and divided into two groups: before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants' lifestyle habits and medical history were collected from self-reported questionnaires. The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) and the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND) were used to assess the degree of alcohol and nicotine dependence. The survey revealed a reduced frequency of reported allergies vs. an increased frequency of reported sinusitis and asthma; increased incidence of declared hypercholesterolemia and visual impairment; a reduced number of cigarettes smoked per day, lower FTND score, and a greater desire to quit smoking in the next six months; and an increase in hs-CRP and FeNO levels in the population during the pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic population. The COVID-19 pandemic had a measurable impact on the general population's prevalence of certain medical conditions and lifestyle habits. Further research should continue to examine the long-term health implications of the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of the study was twofold: to estimate smoking prevalence among nurses and to compare their knowledge, perceptions and attitudes towards smoking. Background: Given the critical role nurses have in the process of patients' smoking cessation both as counsellors and behavioural models, data are needed on their smoking rates and behaviour. Design: A cross sectional, comparative study was conducted. Methods: A convenience sample of 847 nurses working in various psychiatric and public hospitals in Northern Greece participated in the study. Data were collected between April and June 2020 using a battery of questionnaires. Results: Mental health nurses were less likely to consider quitting smoking within the next 6 months (P < 0.001), despite the fact that they reported higher levels of the importance of stop smoking compared to ward nurses (P < 0.05). However, ward nurses were more likely to quit smoking because of the cost of cigarettes (P = 0.024) and for personal reasons (P = 0.040). Conclusion: Prevalence of smoking in nurses is high. Training and educational programmes are needed to develop the appropriate culture of health promotion among nurses, thus provide a more active support to patients who smoke. Summary statements: What is already known about this topic? Smoking prevalence among nursing staff is high.Cultural variances may determine nursing staff's variability in their behaviour.Nurses can play a pivotal role in influencing their patients' smoking attitudes. What this paper adds? Mental health nurses are less likely to quit smoking compared with ward nurses.Specialized strategies that emphasize mental health nurses' perceptions and attitudes towards smoking are considered essential. The implications of this paper: It is imperative that educational institutes of nurses include in their bachelor programmes, courses that emphasize the importance of preventing smoking initiation along with smoking cessation strategies.Nurses who smoke should be supported by public health organizations in practice through tobacco cessation centres and several specialists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

WHO show breast canser is the most cases in Indonesia, namely 58,256 (16,7%) case of the total 348,809 cases of canser. The research objective was to analyze the factors associated with breast canser. The research was an analytic survey with a cross sectional approach. The population was 99 respondents who experienced breast canser in January- July 2020. The sample were 30 respondents as outpatient of Oncology Surgical Clinic Of Pirngadi Hospital Medan. The results showed that there was a relationship between age (p=0,0000), parity (p=.005), age at first menstruation (menarche) (p= .002), history of breast canser (p=.024), smoking habits (p=.024) and contraception (p=.005) with breast canser based on the result of the chi square test with p-value <.05. and the results of the multivariate analysis of the dominant factors were the variable age at first menstruation (menarche) with a significant value of .005 (pvalue .05), the value of the B coefficient of 3.555 was positive, and the use of contraceptives with a significant value of.009 (p-value <.05), the value of the coefficient B, was 3.219 was positive. The conclusion showed a relationship between age, parity, age at fierst menstruation (menarche), history of breast canser, smoking habits, and use of contraceptives were found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives The study investigated the association between indoor air pollution (IAP) and risk factors for acute respiratory infection (ARI) symptoms in children under 5 years of age. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using data derived from Indonesia Demographic and Health Survey in 2017. Binary logistic regression modeling was employed to examine each predictor variable associated with ARI among children under 5 years of age in Indonesia. Results The study included a total of 4936 households with children. Among children under 5 years old, 7.2% reported ARI symptoms. The presence of ARI symptoms was significantly associated with the type of residence, wealth index, and father’s smoking frequency, which were considered the sample’s socio-demographic characteristics. In the final model, living in rural areas, having a high wealth index, the father’s smoking frequency, and a low education level were all linked to ARI symptoms. Conclusions The results revealed that households in rural areas had a substantially higher level of reported ARI symptoms among children under 5 years old. Furthermore, the father’s smoking frequency and low education level were associated with ARI symptoms.

Microscopic colitis (MC) is classified as collagenous colitis (CC) and lymphocytic colitis (LC). Genetic associations between CC and human leucocyte antigens (HLAs) have been found, with smoking being a predisposing external factor. Smoking has a great impact on metabolomics. The aim of this explorative study was to analyze global metabolomics in MC and to examine whether the metabolomic profile differed regarding the type and course of MC, the presence of IBS-like symptoms, treatment, and smoking habits. Of the 240 identified women with MC aged ≤73 years, 131 completed the study questionnaire; the Rome III questionnaire; and the Visual Analog Scale for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (VAS-IBS). Blood samples were analyzed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatograph mass spectrometry (UHLC-MS/UHPLC-MSMS). The women, 63.1 (58.7–67.2) years old, were categorized based on CC (n = 76) and LC (n = 55); one episode or refractory MC; IBS-like symptoms or not; use of corticosteroids or not; and smoking habits. The only metabolomic differences found in the univariate model after adjustment for false discovery rate (FDR) were between smokers and non-smokers. Serotonin was markedly increased in smokers (p < 0.001). No clear patterns appeared when conducting a principal component analysis (PCA). No differences in the metabolomic profile were found depending on the type or clinical course of the disease, neither in the whole MC group nor in the subgroup analysis of CC.

Copyright of Gaceta Médica de Caracas is the property of Academia Nacional de Medicina and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

CONTEXT: The most prevalent cytosolic protein in erythrocytes, hemoglobin (Hb), autoxidizes to its met form on its own and produces superoxide, a powerful source of intracellular reactive oxygen species. The rate of auto-oxidation is directly associated with the physicochemical characteristics of Hb. The rate of auto-oxidation was found to be higher in cigarette smokers. AIM: In this study, we emphasize on the dose-dependency of Hb auto-oxidation and the possibility of metHb reduction to its ferrous form in different grades of smokers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We have recruited 30 smokers (10 each of light, moderate, and heavy smokers) and 20 nonsmokers. We assayed auto-oxidation as well as co-oxidation of Hb, metHb percentage, and erythrocyte membrane-bound Hb, and also measured NADH metHb reductase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) activities. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: One-way ANOVA was chosen to assess the differences between the mean values. Results were expressed as mean ± standard error of the mean, and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: We observed that the rate of metHb formation by both auto-oxidation and co-oxidation increased with a smoking habit. Moreover, NADH reductase and G6PD activities were decreased accordingly; hence, the possibility of reversing metHb back to its normal ferrous form is less. We found that membrane-bound Hb was also higher in smokers based on their smoking habits. CONCLUSION: Cigarette smokers have an augmented rate of methemoglobin formation during the auto-oxidation process and a decreased competence of NADH methemoglobin reductase enzyme activity and G6PD activity, which aid in maintaining Hb in its functional state and protecting it from the oxidative insult by scavenging free radicals.

Abstract Background and Aim The number of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) has been increasing in Japan. To elucidate the risk factors for developing UC in Japan, a hospital‐based case–control study was conducted. This study examined the association between smoking/drinking habits and UC onset in detail. Methods Cases comprised 132 Japanese patients who had been newly diagnosed with UC between 2008 and 2014 at 38 collaborating hospitals in Japan, and controls comprised 167 patients without UC. Detailed data on smoking and drinking habits were collected using a self‐administered questionnaire. Results Ex‐smokers showed an increasing odds ratio (OR) for UC development compared with never smokers (OR 2.42, 95% confidence interval 1.24–4.72). The ORs of ex‐smokers were particularly high among subjects aged less than 40 years, subjects who had smoked more than 10 pack‐years, and subjects who were within 13 years of quitting smoking. Regarding drinking habits, ex‐drinkers also showed a more than twofold higher OR for UC compared to never drinkers. Ex‐drinkers 40 years or older, ex‐drinkers who had consumed more than 364 drink‐years, and subjects who were less than 6 years after quitting drinking showed increased ORs for UC. Conclusion These findings suggest the need for careful attention for UC onset among heavy smokers who quit smoking before 40 years of age and heavy drinkers who quit drinking at ≥40 years of age.

OBJECTIVE: Lung cancer (LC) is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers and the leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. The aim of this study was to get a comprehensive insight into the epidemiology of LC among patients in Vojvodina, the Northern Serbian region, during the ten-year period. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This retrospective study was performed using LC hospital registry data of the Institute for Pulmonary Diseases of Vojvodina (IPBV) from 2011 to 2020. All patients reported in the registry with a place of residence in Vojvodina were included in this study. The data used in this research were: date of diagnosis, gender, age at diagnosis, place of residence, smoking habits at diagnosis, the intensity of smoking (pack/years), ECOG performance (0-5), histological cancer type, TNM classification and disease stage. RESULTS: A total of 12,055 LC patients were included, 69.6% of whom were male. The percentage of female LC patients significantly increased, from 26.9% in 2011 to 35.9% in 2020 (p<0.001). Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) was diagnosed in 80.8% of patients, while 15.4% of patients had small cell lung cancer (SCLC). The most common histological type was adenocarcinoma (41.9%), followed by squamous cell carcinoma (30.0%) and SCLC (15.4%). CONCLUSIONS: The number of diagnosed LC patients in the Northern Serbian region increased over the past decade and is significantly higher in females. There was a strong correlation between smoking habits and LC in both genders. Our results also indicate the importance of introducing and promoting LC screening programs for all risk populations, particularly current and ex-smokers of younger age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Gaceta Médica de Caracas is the property of Academia Nacional de Medicina and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Bu çalışmada konaklama işletmeleri çalışanlarının sigara kullanım alışkanlıklarının incelenmesi, sigara içme alışkanlığının deseninin ortaya çıkarılması ve sigara içme alışkanlığı ile işyeri performansı arasında bir bağlantının olup olmadığının sorgulanması amaçlanmıştır. Bu bağlamda yapılan anketler Konya’daki 4 ve 5 yıldızlı konaklama işletmeleri çalışanlarına uygulanmış, yapılan incelemeler sonucunda 200 geçerli anket formu değerlendirilmiştir. Toplanan veriler sınıflandırılarak Ki Kare anlamlılık, korelasyon, frekans dağılımı analizleri uygulanmış, ortalama, medyan, standart sapma gibi istatistiksel göstergeler de dikkate alınarak değerlendirilmiştir. Çalışmanın sonucunda konaklama işletmelerinde çalışanların büyük bir bölümünün sigara kullandıkları, sigara içme durumunun lise ve üniversite mezunlarında çok yüksek olduğu, eğitim, gelir ve yaş yüksekliğinin çalışanların sigara harcamalarında artışa sebep olduğu, kadınların erkeklere oranla daha az sigara içtikleri ancak mola sürelerinin uzun olduğu, erkeklerin ise, daha sıklıkla molaya çıktıkları tespit edilmiştir. Ayrıca, çalışmada sigara içme ile performans arasında doğrusal bir ilişki olduğuna dair bir bulgu elde edilmemiştir. Diğer yandan araştırmada sigara içmeyen grubun da sigara içenlerde iş kaybı ya da performans düşüklüğü gözlemlediğine dair bir yargının olmadığı görülmüştür. Dolayısıyla, bu çalışmada otel çalışanlarının sigara içme ya da içmeme durumunda performansta bir değişme olacağı konusunda iddia edilen görüşlerin doğru olmadığı sonucuna varılmıştır. Bu araştırma sigara alışkanlığının zararlarını ve verimliliğe olan etkilerini tekrar vurgulayarak işyerlerinde farkındalık oluşturulması, işyerinde önlem programlarının oluşturulması açısından değer taşımaktadır.

Abstract Background This study aims to evaluate the association between smoking habits and dental care utilization and cost in individuals registered with the Japan Health Insurance Association, Osaka branch. Methods We used the administrative claims database and specific medical check-up data and included 226,359 participants, who visited dental institutions, underwent dental examinations, and underwent specific medical checkups, with smoking data from April 2016 to March 2017. We calculated propensity scores with age, gender, exercise, eating habits, alcohol intake, and sleep. We also compared dental care utilization with the total cost of each procedure. Results According to propensity score matching, 62,692 participants were selected for each group. Compared to non-smokers, smokers were younger, and a higher proportion were men. Smokers tended to skip breakfast, have dinner just before bed, and drink alcohol. After adjusting for potential confounding factors with propensity score matching, the mean annual dental cost among smokers was significantly higher than non-smokers. The prevalence of pulpitis, missing teeth, and apical periodontitis were higher among smokers than non-smokers, while inlay detachment, caries, and dentine hypersensitivity were higher among non-smokers. Conclusion This study suggests that smokers have higher dental cost consisted of progressive dental caries, missing teeth, and uncontrolled acute inflammation that necessitated the use of medications. It is suggested that smokers tend to visit the dentist after their symptoms become severe.

Background and aimsThis study aimed to examine the association between dynamic smoking habit change and cardiovascular risk in a population newly diagnosed with hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia.MethodsThis study included 49,320 individuals who had received health examinations provided by the Korea National Health Insurance Service. To determine the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for incident major adverse cardiac events (MACE) and all-cause mortality based on dynamic smoking habit changes for 2 years, multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were utilized.ResultsDuring the follow-up, there were 1,004 (2.2%), 3,483 (7.6%), and 334 (0.7%) cases of myocardial infarction, stroke events, and cardiovascular death, respectively. The group with worsening smoking habits had an increased risk of cardiovascular events and death (HR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.26–1.40) compared to improved smoking habits. The robustness of the results determined by a series of sensitivity analyses further strengthened the main findings.ConclusionsOur findings suggest that worsening of smoking habits, even for a short period of time, may increase the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiovascular death in patients diagnosed with hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. For the primary prevention of cardiovascular events in patients with underlying diseases, dynamic modification of smoking habits should be actively considered.

Objective: In this study, we examined the characteristics of health problems associated with traditional divers (N = 10) so as to provide responsive prevention and intervention for persons engaged in this informal occupation. Methods: For this qualitative research we used a phenomenological design. We conducted data analysis in 2 ways: (1) we mapped the responses of our participants to interview questions, and (2) we applied ATLAS. Ti22 software for analytic description. Results: Complaints of muscle cramps were felt by 4 participants who consumed < 2 liters of water per day, 2 persons with a body mass index (BMI) in the obese category, and one diver who was overweight. Ear complaints were related to diving depth, diving duration, cigarette smoking, and BMI. Muscle complaints were related to water consumption, dive depth, and BMI is 0.22. Conclusion: Education, surveillance, and policy initiatives are necessary to minimize the negative health effects of traditional diving. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited health literacy is a significant predictor of engaging in unhealthy behaviors. However, the literature regarding the association between health literacy and smoking in university students is very limited. Thus, this study was conducted to examine the association between university students' health literacy and smoking habits. A cross-sectional design was used. A sample of university students (N = 327) was recruited to conduct this study. Data collection was performed using a demographics questionnaire and the health literacy questionnaire. AMOS was used to conduct data analysis using structural equation modeling analysis with maximum likelihood estimation. Different versions of the structural model were compared and evaluated based on specific fit indices criteria. The results showed that 30% of the participants were current smokers. Smoking cigarettes was the most common type of smoking in this study, and 23.1% of the participants were current users of two or more types of smoking (e.g., cigarettes and hookah). The structural model with three latent variables (health literacy, smoking status and type, and smoking frequency and duration) was the one that best fit the data; the model fit indices were X2 = 305.84, df = 102, p <.001; RMSEA =.068; CFI =.95; CMIN/df = 2.51; TLI =.929; and AIC = 355.75. A single standard deviation increase of health literacy causes.38 decrease in smoking status and type and.13 decrease of smoking frequency and duration. The results showed that health literacy is negatively associated with smoking in a sample of Jordanian university students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: The number of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) has been increasing in Japan. To elucidate the risk factors for developing UC in Japan, a hospital‐based case–control study was conducted. This study examined the association between smoking/drinking habits and UC onset in detail. Methods: Cases comprised 132 Japanese patients who had been newly diagnosed with UC between 2008 and 2014 at 38 collaborating hospitals in Japan, and controls comprised 167 patients without UC. Detailed data on smoking and drinking habits were collected using a self‐administered questionnaire. Results: Ex‐smokers showed an increasing odds ratio (OR) for UC development compared with never smokers (OR 2.42, 95% confidence interval 1.24–4.72). The ORs of ex‐smokers were particularly high among subjects aged less than 40 years, subjects who had smoked more than 10 pack‐years, and subjects who were within 13 years of quitting smoking. Regarding drinking habits, ex‐drinkers also showed a more than twofold higher OR for UC compared to never drinkers. Ex‐drinkers 40 years or older, ex‐drinkers who had consumed more than 364 drink‐years, and subjects who were less than 6 years after quitting drinking showed increased ORs for UC. Conclusion: These findings suggest the need for careful attention for UC onset among heavy smokers who quit smoking before 40 years of age and heavy drinkers who quit drinking at ≥40 years of age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim and Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and knowledge of self-perceived oral malodor, oral hygiene practices, and smoking habits among dental and engineering students of Dhule district. Materials and Methodology: A structured self-administered, close-ended questionnaire was prepared and was given to 435 dental and engineering e students. This was to assess the self-reported perception of oral breath, awareness of bad breath, timing of bad breath, treatment received for bad breath, oral hygiene practices, caries and bleeding gums, dryness of the mouth, smoking and tea-drinking habits, and tongue coating. The students who responded to the questionnaire were included in the study. Informed consent was obtained from the subjects willing to participate in the study. Results: Toothbrushing was prevalent among 100% of dental students and 87% of engineering students. Self-perception of oral malodor was prevalent among 7% of dental students and 66% of engineering students. Smoking habit was prevalent in 26% of engineering students and 8% of dental students, for which self-treatment was sought for bad breath by 6% of dental students and 8% of engineering students. Conclusion: Dental students had increased awareness regarding self-perceived oral malodor, oral hygiene practices, and smoking habits compared to engineering students.

Summary: Background: Long-term changes in lung cancer (LC) patients are difficult to evaluate. We report results from the French KBP-2020 real-life cohort. Methods: KBP-2020 was a prospective cohort that included all patients diagnosed with LC in 2020, in nonacademic public hospital in France. Patient and tumour characteristics were described and compared with similarly designed cohorts in 2000 and 2010. Findings: In 2020, 82 centers included 8,999 patients diagnosed with LC. The proportion of women increased: 34·6% (3114/8999) compared to, 24·3% (1711/7051) and 16·0% (904/5667) in 2010 and 2000 (p

Background: This study aims to evaluate the association between smoking habits and dental care utilization and cost in individuals registered with the Japan Health Insurance Association, Osaka branch. Methods: We used the administrative claims database and specific medical check-up data and included 226,359 participants, who visited dental institutions, underwent dental examinations, and underwent specific medical checkups, with smoking data from April 2016 to March 2017. We calculated propensity scores with age, gender, exercise, eating habits, alcohol intake, and sleep. We also compared dental care utilization with the total cost of each procedure. Results: According to propensity score matching, 62,692 participants were selected for each group. Compared to non-smokers, smokers were younger, and a higher proportion were men. Smokers tended to skip breakfast, have dinner just before bed, and drink alcohol. After adjusting for potential confounding factors with propensity score matching, the mean annual dental cost among smokers was significantly higher than non-smokers. The prevalence of pulpitis, missing teeth, and apical periodontitis were higher among smokers than non-smokers, while inlay detachment, caries, and dentine hypersensitivity were higher among non-smokers. Conclusion: This study suggests that smokers have higher dental cost consisted of progressive dental caries, missing teeth, and uncontrolled acute inflammation that necessitated the use of medications. It is suggested that smokers tend to visit the dentist after their symptoms become severe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Who could obtain clinical benefit from EGFR/VEGF dual inhibition remains unclear? • We performed a meta -analysis using the data from 7 Phase II/III RCTs. • EGFR/VEGF dual inhibition led to favorable PFS among smokers than non-smokers. • Smoking status could predict the efficacy of EGFR -TKI plus anti-angiogenic agents. • No significant OS advantage was observed in both smoker and non-smoker subgroup. The types of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)–mutant non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients who could obtain significant clinical benefit from the dual inhibition of EGFR /vascular EGFR (VEGFR) pathways remain unclear. No consensus has been reached on the significance of smoking habits in clinical benefit obtained from EGFR -TKI plus anti-angiogenic agents. PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases for all phase II/III randomized clinical trials (RCTs) investigating the efficacy of EGFR -TKI combined with anti-angiogenic agents stratified by smoking habits (updated October 2021) were searched systematically. The primary outcomes were the pooled HRs for PFS/OS in smokers and non-smokers, and differences in efficacy of EGFR -TKI plus anti-angiogenic treatment between smokers and non-smokers, measured by difference in PFS and OS. Seven phase II/III RCTs involving 1452 patients were identified. The pooled analysis demonstrated that EGFR-TKI plus anti-angiogenic agent could decrease the risk of progression by 40% (HR, 0.60; 95%CI 0.48–0.75) in smokers when compared with EGFR-TKI alone, but not in non-smokers (HR, 0.92; 95%CI 0.68–1.25). The comparison analysis further demonstrated that EGFR -mutated NSCLC patients who smoked obtained greater progression-free survival (PFS) benefit from treatment with EGFR -TKI plus anti-angiogenic agents (HR, 0.68; 95%CI 0.51–0.91). Consistent with the results for PFS, smokers receiving EGFR -TKI plus anti-angiogenic agents appeared to exhibit better overall survival (OS) than non-smokers but not to a statistically significant degree (HR, 0.60; 95%CI 0.23–1.52). Meta-regression analysis revealed no significant effect of the line of treatment (P = 0.52), trial phase (P = 0.52), EGFR -TKI type (P = 0.13), or anti-angiogenic agent type (P = 0.50) on PFS effect sizes under multivariate models. Comprehensive analysis suggested that EGFR -TKI plus anti-angiogenic agents led to favorable PFS among smoking EGFR -mutant patients, comparable to nonsmokers, which might provide a useful guide for clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The majority of the current evidence suggests that tobacco smoking increases the risk of diabetes. Salivary alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx) considered a biomarker to detect various oral diseases. Several studies suggest that smoking habits tend to alter ALP and GSHPx levels. However, at present, there is no much information about these enzymes in smokers with diabetes. Hence, the study aimed to evaluate the status of salivary ALP and GSHPx levels in diabetic and nondiabetic participants with and without smoking habits. Materials and Methods: This case-control study was approved by the Institutional Ethical Committee. A total of 60 male participants between the age group 35-50 years were recruited. Informed consent was obtained from participants. Participants were categorized into four groups: Group I - Smokers with diabetes (n = 15), Group II - Smokers without diabetes (n = 15), Group III - Nonsmoker with diabetes (n = 15), and Group IV - Nonsmoker without diabetes (n = 15). Salivary ALP levels and GSHPx activity were measured by colorimetric assay. Data were compared between groups using the one-way analysis of variance, followed by a Bonferroni post-hoc test. Results: Nonsmoker diabetic participants demonstrated significantly higher ALP levels as compared to other groups (P < 0.05). We observed significantly lower levels of ALP in smokers with diabetes (P < 0.05). We observed a significant decrease in GSHPx activity in smokers with diabetes compared to all other groups (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Salivary ALP can be used as a clinical biomarker to be correlated for evaluating diabetes. GSHPx activity can be used to understand the response of supplementation therapy in smokers with diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smoking is one of the habits that are often done by the people of Indonesia. Smoking habits are influenced by several things, such as knowledge and attitudes. Having good knowledge will tend to avoid smoking habits, and having a positive attitude will make someone stop smoking. This study aims to determine the relationship between knowledge and attitudes toward smoking habits in Tugu District residents with a Low Healthy Family Index. This research is an observational study with a cross-sectional approach carried out in Tugu District with residents with a low Healthy Family Index. The samples used were 81 samples. The analysis used is the Spearman test. The results showed that 34 respondents (42%) had sufficient knowledge, 64 respondents had a negative attitude (79%), 36 respondents were heavy smokers (44.4%), and 45 respondents were moderate smokers (55.6%). The results of the relationship between knowledge and attitudes toward smoking habits are each with p values of 0.000 and 0.005. This study concludes that there is a relationship between knowledge and attitudes toward smoking habits in Tugu District residents with a Low Healthy Family Index.

Risankizumab has been recently approved for moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis; however, real‐life studies are scarce. Analysis of possible predictor factors of treatment response are limited to body mass index (BMI) and previous biologic experience. Our objectives were to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Risankizumab and to investigate on possible predictor factors response. We retrospectively analyzed 166 patients from two centers in Italy who undergone Risankizumab for psoriasis. The proportion of patients achieving a 100%, 90%, 75% of improvement in Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) and PASI <3 were collected at weeks 16, 28, 40, and 52. Study population was analyzed in subgroups to investigate possible predictors of response to Risankizumab since week 40. At the time of analysis 165, 103, 30, and 11 patients had completed 16, 28, 40, and 52 weeks of treatment, respectively. The mean PASI score decreased from 12.5 ± 5.1 at baseline to 1.9 ± 2.4 at week 16. Similar reductions were observed when considering PASI <3, PASI 75, PASI 90, and PASI 100. Previous biologics failure, different smoking habits, obesity, and joint involvement resulted in a lower response to risankizumab. In particular, significant differences in mean PASI at any time‐points was observed between psoriatic arthritis (PSA) and non‐PSA patients: 2.7 versus 1.7 (p = 0.036), 1.9 versus 0.4 (p = 0.006), and 4.1 versus 0.5 (p = 0.016) at 16, 28, and 40 weeks, respectively. No difference in response to risankizumab occurred in the case of involvement of difficult‐to‐treat areas. In this population, Risankizumab was effective and safe. Smoking habits, joint involvement, obese status, and previous biologic experience may negatively affect treatment response, while difficult body sites involvement have minor impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cigarettes are substances that contain various ingredients that have a negative impact on the body for both active and passive smokers. This study aims to investigate the effect of smoking habits on cardiorespiratory fitness. The design of the analysis used a crosectional sampling method with a sample of 100 online motorcycle taxi drivers. Data collection through questionnaires and measurements of cardiorespiratory fitness. Cardiorespiratory fitness measurements were carried out by the respondents, running for 15 minutes, and the results were converted to the Heywood scale. The results showed that of the 100 respondents, 55 people (55%) smoked and 45 people (45%) did not smoke. The statistical analysis revealed a significant relationship between smoking behavior and cardiorespiratory fitness in online motorcycle taxi drivers, with a value of p = 0.004 (a <0.05). The recommendations in this study are for smoking behavior factors to be considered in determining the degree of cardiorespiratory fitness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease that can lead to death; it is a condition that is related to age, nutritional status and smoking habit. The likelihood of a person being overweight or obese increases every year, and there are still many people who have a smoking habit. Purpose: This study aims to analyze the effect of age, smoking habit and nutritional status on incidences of hypertension in East Java Province. Methods: This was an analytical observational study using a cross-sectional design and employing secondary data derived from the 5th Indonesian Family Life Survey (IFLS). Data collection was carried out among all household members in East Java who were still at a productive age (15–64 years) making a total of 3,803 respondents. The variables observed were age, gender, nutritional status, smoking habit, physical activity, and consumption of high-fat foods. The data analysis used the chi-squared test and logistic regression. Results: The findings of this study show that there is a relationship between age and nutritional status and the incidence of hypertension. However, there was no significant relationship between smoking habit and the incidence of hypertension. Elderly respondents were shown to have 12 times the risk of developing hypertension than teenage respondents. Conclusion: Age is the dominant factor causing hypertension in East Java Province. Adults and the elderly in East Java Province are expected to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The purpose of this study was to examine motivational constructs and the effect of physical activity engagement on health behaviors in college students who were required to take a 15-week lifetime physical fitness (LPF) course for graduation. A total of fifty-eight first and second year college students aged between 17 and 23 years (M=18.72; SD=1.09). Paper and pencil questionnaires were anonymously administered at the beginning and at the end of the 15-week long spring 2012 semester. Analysis of the differences between the beginning and the end of the semester was completed. Physical activity behaviors and Behavioral Regulations variables did not change across time (p > .05). Appearance (d = -0.34, p = .013) and fitness (d = -0.37, p = .006) reasons for participating in physical activity and all Theory of Planned Behavior variables decreased over time (d = -0.32 to - 0.41, p < .05). Changes in attitude toward physical activity negatively predicted changes in alcohol consumption (r = -.261 to -.357). This study sustains the already existing literature that supports the positive impact of LPF courses offered to college students.

Abstract Background Differences in the expression of regulatory T cells (Tregs) have been suggested to explain why some smokers develop COPD and some do not. Upregulation of Tregs in response to smoking would restrain airway inflammation and thus the development of COPD; while the absense of such upregulation would over time lead to chronic inflammation and COPD. We hypothesized that—among COPD patients—the same mechanism would affect rate of decline in lung function; specifically, that a decreased expression of Tregs would be associated with a more rapid decline in FEV1. Methods Bronchoscopy with BAL was performed in 52 subjects recruited from the longitudinal OLIN COPD study; 12 with COPD and a rapid decline in lung function (loss of FEV1 ≥ 60 ml/year), 10 with COPD and a non-rapid decline in lung function (loss of FEV1 ≤ 30 ml/year), 15 current and ex-smokers and 15 non-smokers with normal lung function. BAL lymphocyte subsets were determined using flow cytometry. Results The proportions of Tregs with regulatory function (FoxP3+/CD4+CD25bright) were significantly lower in COPD subjects with a rapid decline in lung function compared to those with a non-rapid decline (p = 0.019). This result was confirmed in a mixed model regression analysis in which adjustments for inhaled corticosteroid usage, smoking, sex and age were evaluated. No significant difference was found between COPD subjects and smokers or non-smokers with normal lung function. Conclusions COPD subjects with a rapid decline in lung function had lower proportions of T cells with regulatory function in BAL fluid, suggesting that an inability to suppress the inflammatory response following smoking might lead to a more rapid decline in FEV1. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT02729220

TB is the ninth leading cause of death worldwide and the leading cause of an infectious agent, ranking above HIV / AIDS. an estimated 1.3 million deaths (World Health Organization, 2017). The results of the latest data survey conducted on July 28, 2020, data that we obtained from P2 Pulmonary Tuberculosis Puskesmas Bandar Khalifah Tembung, there were 107 patients who were male as many as 67 and female as many as 40 patients. The number of patients with confirmed bacteriology / AFB (+) was 69 patients, and the number of patients with clinical confirmation / AFB (-) was 38 patients (Puskesmas Bandar Khalifah, 2020). The population in this study were 107 patients with pulmonary tuberculosis in the Bandar Khalifah Tembung Community Health Center from January to July 2020. The sampling technique used in this study was total sampling, where the sample was taken covering the entire population of 107 people. Based on statistical tests using the chi-square test, there was a relationship of knowledge with the incidence of pulmonary tuberculosis with a value (p = 0.025), there was no relationship between occupancy density and the incidence of pulmonary tuberculosis with a value (p = 0.547), there was no relationship with household contact with the incidence of pulmonary tuberculosis with value (p = 0.241) and there is a relationship between smoking habits and the incidence of pulmonary tuberculosis with a value (p = 0.045). The conclusion of this study is that there is a relationship between knowledge and smoking habits in the work area of the Bandar Khalifah Public Health Center. It is hoped that the Bandar Khalifah Community Health Center will be more active in fostering and carrying out program activities on Tuberculosis for the community and sufferers.

Hypertension is one of major health problem that aff ect many people. Driver is one of the jobs that could cause hypertension due to the surrounding environment which support unhealthy lifestyles such as consuming excessive fat, smoking habit and susceptible to stress. The purpose of this research was to analyze the correlation between fat consumption, smoking habit, and stress with hypertension among drivers. This research was an observational study using cross sectional design. The samples were 74 male drivers taken by accidental sampling. The respondent was chosen around Juanda Airport Sidoarjo. The data were collected by measuring blood pressure using digital sphygmomanometer and interview using questionnaire, Semi Quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire, and The Workplace Stress Scale. The data then analyzed using Pearson and Spearman Correlation test. The results of this research showed that stress (P=0,000; r=0,830) had strongest correlation with hypertension among drivers compared to two other variables, fat consumption (P=0,000 ; r=0,689) and smoking habits (P=0,004 ; r=0,331). This study concludes that excessive fat consumption, smoking habit 11-20 cigarettes/day, moderate and severe stress levels can increase the risk of hypertension among drivers. Drivers should adjust to reduce consumption of fried foods, smoking habit, and stress with suffi cient rest ± 7-8 hours/day to prevent the occurrence of hypertension among drivers.

An increase in blood lipid profi le escalates risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). CHD is the leading cause of death in the world. This study was intended to analyze the relationship between fat intake, fi ber intake, smoking habits, Body Mass Index (BMI) and central obesity and lipid profi le among patients in cardiology clinic. This study used cross sectional design with 60 subjects aged >29 years who were outpatients in the Cardiaology Polyclinic at Gatot Soebroto Hospital. Central obesity was measured using metline by measurung waist circumference; BMI was converted from measurements of body weight and height; characteristics and smoking habits were taken using a questionnaire; and food intake was measured using Semi Quantitative FFQ. Lipid profi le data was collected through secondary data. Bivariate data analysis on categorical data used chi-square, Fisher-exact test or spearman ordinal correlation and stratifi cation analysis using ANOVA or kruskall-wallis. There were 78.3% subjects who had abnormal LDL, 76.7% had abnormal HDL, 80% had abnormal triglycerides and 78.3% had abnormal cholesterol. There were signifi ant relationship between fat intake, smoking habits, BMI and central obesity to the lipid profi le (LDL, HDL, triglycerides and cholesterol) (p

Introduction: The habit of smoking is common among Indonesian adults, teenagers, and even children. This research, therefore, aims to develop a non-smoking regional policy to protect children in Palu City, Indonesia. Methods: Data were systematically obtained from variousonline literature reviews, including reports, journals, and books from the last ten years. The journals were mostly from scholars, while the article was screened according to the research objectives. Research that is included in the systematic discussion not completely abstracted for inclusion in this paper is issued for the inclusion of selected study details in tabular format. Results: The result showed that the use of a non-smoking regional policy is effective in preventing children smoking habits. The bureaucratic structure has been adequately implemented, however, there are lots of errors associated with the communication, disposition, and resources used due to differences of opinion among policymakers, lack of human resources, and the poor commitment of stakeholders. All literature was selected and screened from scholars. Conclusion: In conclusion, a non-smoking regional policy is effective in preventing children smoking habits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Despite the strong association of smoking with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cerebral stroke, the consequences of smoking have not been elucidated among Iranian populations. This study aimed to assess sex-specific incidence of CVDs among an urban Iranian population with different smoking habits. Methods Participants were recruited from the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS). Data on socio-demographic features and smoking habits from a sample of 10,400 individuals (4378 men and 6022 women), aged ≥20 years without prior CVD history were analyzed. Participants were followed up for 12 years for incidence of CVD/CHD events. Men were categorized in six groups, including never-, passive, ex-, passive and ex-, occasional and daily smokers. Women were categorized in three groups, i.e. never smokers, passive smokers and ever smokers. Using cox regression model, adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) of incident CVD/CHD were calculated for each group, given never smokers as the reference. Results In men, HR of CVD was 1.13 (95%CI: 0.80–1.59) in passive smokers, 1.23 (95%CI: 0.91–1.66) in ex-smokers, 1.46 (95%CI: 0.90–2.36) in passive and ex-smokers, 2.33 (95%CI: 1.25–4.33) in occasional smokers and 2.05 (95%CI: 1.57–2.67) in daily smokers. In smokers of ≥21 cigarettes/day, HR of CVD was 3.79 (95%CI: 2.25–6.37), with less risk observed in those who smoked lesser numbers of cigarettes/day. Quitters of ≥15 years were almost risk free. In women, none of the HRs of CVD/CHD were significant. Conclusion An increased risk of incidence of CVD/CHD was found in current male smokers. To confirm and further elaborate these findings, more data of sex-specific studies are required from culturally diverse urban and rural areas of Iran.

Objective: This study was designed to find out risk indicators for the development of orofacial clefts (OFCs) in the Southern Province of Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study carried out in a maternity hospital from January 2013 to December 2016. Data including child sex, type and site of cleft, birth weight and birth month (season), parents' age at the time of their child's birth, paternal and maternal habits, parental consanguinity, and family history of OFCs were obtained. The data were processed and analyzed using SPSS software, Version 20. Results: Overall prevalence of OFCs in the study population was 0.65/1000 live births. There were 10 males, 5 females, and 1 ambiguous sexual orientation. Of the 16 OFC patients, 9 (56.25%) were classified as having syndromic OFCs (SOFCs) and 7 (43.75%) as having non-SOFCs (NSOFCs). Cleft lip and cleft lip/palate both had strong family history of OFCs. Similarly, the phenotype of OFCs and the presence of syndromic or NSOFCs did not show a relationship with paternal smoking habits during pregnancy. No relationship was reported between parental consanguinity with the presence of these factors. However, results showed that 13 (81.3%) out of 16 identified cases of OFC had background consanguinity. Conclusion: Prevalence of OFC in the current study was within reported range, consanguinity was observed in 81.3% of identified cases. Further research is paramount in the role of consanguinity in OFC in Arabian population.

Background: Tobacco use is the major cause of preventable morbidity and mortality. The main objectives of this study were to identify smokers willing to participate in quit smoking campaigns using social media and to identify smoking habits of everyday smokers in Al Ain City, United Arab Emirates (UAE). Research Design and Methods: Everyday smokers from Al Ain city of the UAE were surveyed in different locations of the city including malls and specialized tobacco-selling shops. They were interviewed using a semi-structured survey and the information was recorded by one assessor. The information gathered included type and frequency of tobacco use, smoking history and habits, quitting history, desire to quit, and the preferred communication platform. Result: A total of 412 regular adult smokers were interviewed in which the majority (95%) reported first smoking at or before the age of 28 years. Participants were mainly UAE nationals (33.7%), Egyptians (14.1%), Syrians (12.9%), and Jordanians (10.9%). Manufactured cigarettes were the main form of tobacco consumption (59.5%), and smoking was mainly solitary (56.3%) and at home (26.3%) and coffee shops (24.9%). The majority of interviewed subjects (76.7%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 72.4%–80.5%) expressed their interest to quit smoking in the future and 55.3% (95% CI: 50.5%–60.2%) were ready to get involved immediately in a smoking cessation program. Of those, 80.3% (95% CI: 74.6%–84.9%) preferred WhatsApp for receiving smoking cessation motivational education. Conclusion: The majority of smokers started at younger ages, which warrant the age of smoking restriction to be raised to 29 years instead of 18 years by the health authority. Everyday smokers were aware of the potentially hazardous effects of tobacco smoking and many were willing to accept help to quit smoking that involves the use of WhatsApp.

Basketball athlete require maximum oxygen capacity to maintain their endurance during physical activity for long time. Good cardio respiratory endurance for athlete can slower fatigue so they can reach a peak performance optimally. Many factors affect cardio respiratory endurance such as haemoglobin status and smoking habits. The purpose of this study was to analyze the correlations between haemoglobin status and smoking habits with cardio respiratory endurance among basketball student activity unit. This research was an observational analytic with case control study design. The sample in this research were 50 people and divided into case (25 people) and control (25 people) groups. Data collections included cooper test, blood sampling with cyanmethemoglobin method and smoking habits. The result showed that there were correlation between haemoglobin status p=0.014 (OR = 6.78; 95% CI: 1.6-28.54), smoking habits p=0.020 (OR = 7.67; 95% CI: 1.47-39.98) with cardio respiratory endurance. Non anemia and non-smoking Athletes have a better cardio respiratory endurance than anemia and smoking athletes. It is recommend to maintain haemoglobin status in the normal range to avoids anemia and quit smoking to increase their optimal cardio respiratory endurance