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Metabolic syndrome (met-s) is a medical condition that includes abdominal obesity, hyperlipidemia, high blood glucose, and high blood pressure. It is associated with a high risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The condition was believed to be a challenge mostly faced by developed nations. A few studies conducted showed that met-s is increasing and becoming more common in Africa, where it was considered rare. The study aimed to assess the determinants and prevalence of met-s among the adult population in Hargeisa town, Somaliland, in 2023. A community-based cross-sectional study among 498 adults living in all eight districts of Hargeisa, was carried out from August to September 2023. The sample size was divided proportionally by the number of households in selected sub-districts. Systematic random sampling was employed to select the households in the sub-districts. One adult from each household was selected and assessed. Data were collected using the STEPwise approach of the World Health Organization. The data were analysed using International Diabetic Federation (IDF) criteria for metabolic syndrome with SPSS version 25. Bivariate and multivariate analyses using logistic regression were performed. In total, 498 adults participated in the study. The prevalence of met-s was 26.7% in IDF (males 11% vs. females 38.9%). Being of an advanced age of 45-54 years (AOR = 3.6, CI 1.17-11.27), 55-64 years (AOR = 6.1, CI 1.88-19.83), >64 (AOR = 9.1 CI 2.41-34.92), being a woman (AOR = 10.8, CI 5.3-21.8), being overweight or obese (AOR = 4.5, CI 2.5-8), sedentary behavior (AOR = 3.5, CI 1.6-7.5), and lack of physical exercise (AOR = 0.39, CI 0.17-0.88) were significantly associated with met-s. The met-s was predominant in our findings. Community-based prevention strategies and actions are necessary if the met-s and its potential consequences are needed to be mitigated.

BackgroundObservational and Mendelian randomization (MR) studies link obesity and cancer, but it remains unclear whether these depend upon related metabolic abnormalities.MethodsWe used information from 321,472 participants in the UK biobank, including 30,561 cases of obesity-related cancer. We constructed three genetic instruments reflecting higher adiposity together with either “unfavourable” (82 SNPs), “favourable” (24 SNPs) or “neutral” metabolic profile (25 SNPs). We looked at associations with 14 types of cancer, previously suggested to be associated with obesity.ResultsAll genetic instruments had a strong association with BMI (p < 1 × 10−300 for all). The instrument reflecting unfavourable adiposity was also associated with higher CRP, HbA1c and adverse lipid profile, while instrument reflecting metabolically favourable adiposity was associated with lower HbA1c and a favourable lipid profile. In MR-inverse-variance weighted analysis unfavourable adiposity was associated with an increased risk of non-hormonal cancers (OR = 1.22, 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.08, 1.38), but a lower risk of hormonal cancers (OR = 0.80, 95%CI: 0.72, 0.89). From individual cancers, MR analyses suggested causal increases in the risk of multiple myeloma (OR = 1.36, 95%CI: 1.09, 1.70) and endometrial cancer (OR = 1.77, 95%CI: 1.16, 2.68) by greater genetically instrumented unfavourable adiposity but lower risks of breast and prostate cancer (OR = 0.72, 95%CI: 0.61, 0.83 and OR = 0.81, 95%CI: 0.68, 0.97, respectively). Favourable or neutral adiposity were not associated with the odds of any individual cancer.ConclusionsHigher adiposity associated with a higher risk of non-hormonal cancer but a lower risk of some hormone related cancers. Presence of metabolic abnormalities might aggravate the adverse effects of higher adiposity on cancer. Further studies are warranted to investigate whether interventions on adverse metabolic health may help to alleviate obesity-related cancer risk.

Background Anemia remains a major global public health issue, affecting around 24.8% of the world’s population in both developing and developed countries. Pregnant women in developing countries are particularly susceptible, with 38.2% affected worldwide. Anemia is also a major contributor to maternal mortality, with 510,000 maternal deaths globally, of which 20% occur in developing countries and are related to anemia. Iron deficiency anemia is the most prevalent form, impacting 1.3 to 2.2 billion individuals, with 50% being women of reproductive age. Aim This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of anemia in pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) at Hargeisa Group Hospital (HGH), Somaliland. Methods A cross-sectional study included 360 pregnant women, who sought ANC at HGH from July 15 to August 6, 2023. The study subjects were selected using systematic random sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and participants’ current medical charts, including hemoglobin levels. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software (version 20). Results The study revealed an overall prevalence of anemia among pregnant women at 50.6% (95% CI: 45.40 − 55.72%). Anemia severity was categorized as mild (33.0%), moderate (54.9%), and severe (12.1%). Factors statistically associated with anemia included gestational age in the third trimester (AOR = 3.248, 95% CI: 1.491–7.074), lack of ANC visits (AOR = 6.828, 95% CI: 1.966–23.721), and absence of iron supplementation (AOR = 29.588, 95% CI: 2.922–299.713). Notably, a higher consumption of meat per week was associated with a reduced risk of anemia (AOR = 0.198, 95% CI: 0.104–0.379). Conclusion The study underscores the severity of anemia in pregnant women within the range considered as severe public health problem by WHO. It is crucial to emphasize effective prenatal care, improve dietary practices, and promote the provision of iron supplements. Enhanced maternal education on Anemia during ANC visits has the potential to reduce Anemia prevalence and mitigate adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.

About 287,000 mothers lost their lives due to pregnancy and delivery in 2020 worldwide. Birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR) is an approach used to utilize the timely use of skilled maternal and neonatal services. Preparing mothers for childbirth and against its dangers has great importance in reducing maternal mortality. Little is known about BPCR and influencing factors in Hargeisa town, Somaliland. To assess the level of BPCR and its associated factors among recently delivered women in Hargeisa. A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out in September 2022 among 300 women who delivered in the one-year time interval before the study period. A census was done to identify the women, and then they were selected by simple random sampling. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using a pre-structured questionnaire. A woman was considered prepared for birth if she made preparations for at least three of the BPCR components. Data were cleaned, entered, and analyzed using SPSS V.25. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed with a cut-point of 0.05 significance level. From a total of 300 women, 38.3% had good knowledge of BPCR, and only one-fourth (25%) were prepared for birth and its complications. Access and media usage (AOR = 9.64, CI 1.09-82.248), receiving health education about BPCR (AOR = 3.75, CI 1.01-13.87), giving birth at health institutions (AOR = 6.02, CI 1.39-25.95), and good knowledge of key danger signs of pregnancy (AOR = 0.017, CI 0.004-0.069) were factors significantly associated with BPCR practice. The study identified that the BPCR level was very low compared to many other studies. Such a low BPCR level may have a negative impact on maternal health and lives, hindering interventions conducted to reduce maternal mortality rates. All concerned bodies should consider the importance of awareness creation regarding BPCR in their core interventions.

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, cancers, diabetes, and mental health disorders pose a significant global health challenge, accounting for the majority of fatalities and disability-adjusted life years worldwide. These diseases arise from the complex interactions between genetic, behavioral, and environmental factors, necessitating a thorough understanding of these dynamics to identify effective diagnostic strategies and interventions. Although recent advances in multi-omics technologies have greatly enhanced our ability to explore these interactions, several challenges remain. These challenges include the inherent complexity and heterogeneity of multi-omic datasets, limitations in analytical approaches, and severe underrepresentation of non-European genetic ancestries in most omics datasets, which restricts the generalizability of findings and exacerbates health disparities. This scoping review evaluates the global landscape of multi-omics data related to NCDs from 2000 to 2024, focusing on recent advancements in multi-omics data integration, translational applications, and equity considerations. We highlight the need for standardized protocols, harmonized data-sharing policies, and advanced approaches such as artificial intelligence/machine learning to integrate multi-omics data and study gene-environment interactions. We also explore challenges and opportunities in translating insights from gene-environment (GxE) research into precision medicine strategies. We underscore the potential of global multi-omics research in advancing our understanding of NCDs and enhancing patient outcomes across diverse and underserved populations, emphasizing the need for equity and fairness-centered research and strategic investments to build local capacities in underrepresented populations and regions.

This study applied machine learning (ML) algorithms to predict health-related quality of life (HRQOL) using comprehensive social determinants of health (SDOH) features. Data from the All of Us dataset, comprising participants with complete HRQOL and SDOH records, were analyzed. The primary outcome was HRQOL, which encompassed physical and mental health components, while SDOH features included social, educational, economic, environmental, and healthcare access factors. Three ML algorithms, namely logistic regression, XGBoost, and Random Forest, were tested. The models achieved accuracy ranges of 0.73–0.77 for HRQOL, 0.70–0.71 for physical health, and 0.72–0.77 for mental health, with corresponding area under the curve ranges of 0.81–0.84, 0.74–0.76, and 0.83–0.85, respectively. Emotional stability, activity management, spiritual beliefs, and comorbidity were identified as key predictors. These findings underscore the critical role of SDOH in predicting HRQOL and suggests future research to focus on applying such models to diverse patient populations and specific clinical conditions.

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related death globally. While survival improved, CRC patients face the risk of subsequent multiple primary cancers (MPCs). This study aimed to determine the incidence and identify risk factors associated with metachronous MPCs among CRC survivors. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on adults diagnosed with invasive colorectal adenocarcinoma at Flinders Medical Centre from 2011 to 2024, who had at least 6 months of post-CRC follow-up. Sociodemographic factors, clinical information, tumour characteristics, and treatment types were collected. Cumulative incidence function and sub-distribution hazard models were used to estimate the incidence and identify risk factors of developing MPCs. Results: Of the total 554 eligible study participants, 12% developed MPC, with a median follow-up time of 5 years (interquartile range: 2.8–7.6 years) until the diagnosis of MPC. Gastrointestinal, prostate, and haematological malignancies were the most common types of MPCs identified. The cumulative incidence and standardised incidence ratio (SIR) of an MPC were 20.9% (95% CI: 15.3–25.6) and 1.32 (95% CI: 1.03–1.68), respectively. Male sex, older age (>65 y), early-stage cancer, and loss of mismatch repair (MMR) protein expression were associated with an increased risk of developing MPCs. Conclusions: CRC survivors have a higher risk of developing an MPC compared to the general population. Sex, age, cancer stage, and MMR protein expression are factors associated with MPCs. Therefore, tailored surveillance based on the individual’s risk profile should be considered for timely diagnosis of subsequent cancers to improve long-term outcomes.

Background Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the fourth most diagnosed cancer in Australia. With advancements in treatment and an increase in survival rates, CRC survivors face an elevated risk of developing multiple primary cancers (MPCs), presenting a clinical challenge. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the incidence, trend and risk of MPCs after a diagnosis of CRC in the South Australian population. Methods This study analysed South Australian Cancer Registry data on individuals diagnosed with CRC as their first cancer from 1982 to 2017. The incidence of MPCs was assessed using cumulative incidence functions, and age‐standardised rates were estimated. Poisson regression was used to determine the risk, and standardised incidence ratios (SIR) and absolute excess risks (AER) were estimated. Trends over time were analysed using Joinpoint regression. Results The study included 26,729 CRC survivors. Of the cohort, 15% (3917) developed 4453 MPCs, with 96% diagnosed six or more months after index CRC. The cumulative incidence of MPCs was 22.5% (95% CI: 21.6–23.4). The median follow‐up time until MPC diagnosis was 6.4 years. Common MPCs included prostate (18.9%), subsequent CRC (13.1%), lung (10.8%), haematological (10.2%) and breast (8.0%) cancers. The overall risk of MPCs was higher in CRC survivors (SIR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.09–1.16; AER: 22.6 per 10,000) compared to the incidence in the general South Australian population. The incidence of MPCs has increased over time (annual percentage change = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.33–2.51). Conclusions CRC survivors are at increased risk of subsequent cancers, highlighting the need for targeted surveillance, particularly for prostate, lung, breast and blood cancers, for early detection and treatment. In this study, the risk and trends of multiple primary cancers were estimated using large state‐wide data collected over 35 years. The findings revealed a significantly higher risk of subsequent primary cancers, with an increasing trend over time. These results underscore the need for informed strategies to enhance and refine surveillance programmes for the early detection of subsequent cancers. Such measures could improve not only overall survival but also the quality of survivorship by addressing long‐term health risks more effectively.

Developing an eco-friendly, flexible and recyclable micro-structured dry electrode for sustainable life is essential. In this work, we have developed irregular, micro-structured sandpaper coated with graphite powder as an electrode for developing a simple, low-cost, contact-separation mode graphite-coated sandpaper-based triboelectric nanogenerator (GS-TENG) as a self-powered device and biomechanical sensor. The as-fabricated GS-TENG is a dielectric-conductor model. It is made up of a bottom layer with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) as a triboelectric layer, which is attached onto a graphite-coated sandpaper-based electrode and a top layer with aluminum as another triboelectric layer as well as an electrode. The forward and reverse open-circuit voltages reach upto ~33.8 V and ~36.62 V respectively, and the forward and reverse short-circuit currents are ~2.16 µA and ~2.17µA, respectively. The output generated by GS-TENG can power 120 blue light-emitting diodes connected in series, liquid crystal display and can charge commercial capacitors along with the rectifier circuit. The capacitor of 22 µF is charged upto 5 V and is sufficient to drive digital watch as wearable electronics. Moreover, the device can track signals generated by human motion, hence it scavenges biomechanical energy. Thus, GS-TENG facilitates large-scale fabrication and has potential for future applications in wearable and portable devices.

Hormone-related cancers, including cancers of the breast, prostate, ovaries, uterine, and thyroid, globally contribute to the majority of cancer incidence. We hypothesize that hormone-sensitive cancers share common genetic risk factors that have rarely been investigated by previous genomic studies of site-specific cancers. Here, we show that considering hormone-sensitive cancers as a single disease in the UK Biobank reveals shared genetic aetiology. We observe that a significant proportion of variance in disease liability is explained by the genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), i.e., SNP-based heritability on the liability scale is estimated as 10.06% (SE 0.70%). Moreover, we find 55 genome-wide significant SNPs for the disease, using a genome-wide association study. Pair-wise analysis also estimates positive genetic correlations between some pairs of hormone-sensitive cancers although they are not statistically significant. Our finding suggests that heritable genetic factors may be a key driver in the mechanism of carcinogenesis shared by hormone-sensitive cancers. Analysis of data from the UK Biobank considering multiple hormone-sensitive cancers as a single disease suggests substantial SNP-based heritability, identifying 55 variants with genome-wide significance.