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  1. Gijsberts CM, Groenewegen KA, Hoefer IE, Eijkemans MJ, Asselbergs FW, Anderson TJ, et al.
    PLoS One, 2015;10(7):e0132321.
    PMID: 26134404 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0132321
    BACKGROUND: Clinical manifestations and outcomes of atherosclerotic disease differ between ethnic groups. In addition, the prevalence of risk factors is substantially different. Primary prevention programs are based on data derived from almost exclusively White people. We investigated how race/ethnic differences modify the associations of established risk factors with atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events.

    METHODS: We used data from an ongoing individual participant meta-analysis involving 17 population-based cohorts worldwide. We selected 60,211 participants without cardiovascular disease at baseline with available data on ethnicity (White, Black, Asian or Hispanic). We generated a multivariable linear regression model containing risk factors and ethnicity predicting mean common carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and a multivariable Cox regression model predicting myocardial infarction or stroke. For each risk factor we assessed how the association with the preclinical and clinical measures of cardiovascular atherosclerotic disease was affected by ethnicity.

    RESULTS: Ethnicity appeared to significantly modify the associations between risk factors and CIMT and cardiovascular events. The association between age and CIMT was weaker in Blacks and Hispanics. Systolic blood pressure associated more strongly with CIMT in Asians. HDL cholesterol and smoking associated less with CIMT in Blacks. Furthermore, the association of age and total cholesterol levels with the occurrence of cardiovascular events differed between Blacks and Whites.

    CONCLUSION: The magnitude of associations between risk factors and the presence of atherosclerotic disease differs between race/ethnic groups. These subtle, yet significant differences provide insight in the etiology of cardiovascular disease among race/ethnic groups. These insights aid the race/ethnic-specific implementation of primary prevention.

    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  2. Park SW, Bebakar WM, Hernandez PG, Macura S, Hersløv ML, de la Rosa R
    Diabet Med, 2017 02;34(2):174-179.
    PMID: 26773557 DOI: 10.1111/dme.13069
    AIMS: To compare the efficacy and safety of two titration algorithms for insulin degludec/insulin aspart (IDegAsp) administered once daily with metformin in participants with insulin-naïve Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

    METHODS: This open-label, parallel-group, 26-week, multicentre, treat-to-target trial, randomly allocated participants (1:1) to two titration arms. The Simple algorithm titrated IDegAsp twice weekly based on a single pre-breakfast self-monitored plasma glucose (SMPG) measurement. The Stepwise algorithm titrated IDegAsp once weekly based on the lowest of three consecutive pre-breakfast SMPG measurements. In both groups, IDegAsp once daily was titrated to pre-breakfast plasma glucose values of 4.0-5.0 mmol/l. Primary endpoint was change from baseline in HbA1c (%) after 26 weeks.

    RESULTS: Change in HbA1c at Week 26 was IDegAspSimple -14.6 mmol/mol (-1.3%) (to 52.4 mmol/mol; 6.9%) and IDegAspStepwise -11.9 mmol/mol (-1.1%) (to 54.7 mmol/mol; 7.2%). The estimated between-group treatment difference was -1.97 mmol/mol [95% confidence interval (CI) -4.1, 0.2] (-0.2%, 95% CI -0.4, 0.02), confirming the non-inferiority of IDegAspSimple to IDegAspStepwise (non-inferiority limit of ≤ 0.4%). Mean reduction in fasting plasma glucose and 8-point SMPG profiles were similar between groups. Rates of confirmed hypoglycaemia were lower for IDegAspStepwise [2.1 per patient years of exposure (PYE)] vs. IDegAspSimple (3.3 PYE) (estimated rate ratio IDegAspSimple /IDegAspStepwise 1.8; 95% CI 1.1, 2.9). Nocturnal hypoglycaemia rates were similar between groups. No severe hypoglycaemic events were reported.

    CONCLUSIONS: In participants with insulin-naïve Type 2 diabetes mellitus, the IDegAspSimple titration algorithm improved HbA1c levels as effectively as a Stepwise titration algorithm. Hypoglycaemia rates were lower in the Stepwise arm.

    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  3. Ng CG, Boks MP, Roes KC, Zainal NZ, Sulaiman AH, Tan SB, et al.
    Eur Neuropsychopharmacol, 2014 Apr;24(4):491-8.
    PMID: 24503279 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2014.01.016
    This is a 4 week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to examine the effects of methylphenidate as add-on therapy to mirtazapine compared to placebo for treatment of depression in terminally ill cancer patients. It involved 88 terminally ill cancer patients from University of Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They were randomized and treated with either methylphenidate or placebo as add on to mirtazapine. The change in Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) score from baseline to day 3 was analyzed by linear regression. Changes of MADRS and Clinical Global Impression-Severity Scale (CGI-S) over 28 days were analyzed using mixed model repeated measures (MMRM). Secondary analysis of MADRS response rates, defined as 50% or more reduction from baseline score. A significantly larger reduction of Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) score in the methylphenidate group was observed from day 3 (B=4.14; 95% CI=1.83-6.45). Response rate (defined as 50% or more reduction from baseline MADRS score) in the methylphenidate treated group was superior from day 14. Improvement in Clinical Global Impression-Severity Scale (CGI-S) was greater in the methylphenidate treated group from day 3 until day 28. The drop-out rates were 52.3% in the methylphenidate group and 59.1% in the placebo group (relative risk=0.86, 95%CI=0.54-1.37) due to cancer progression. Nervous system adverse events were more common in methylphenidate treated subjects (20.5% vs 9.1%, p=0.13). In conclusions, methylphenidate as add on therapy to mirtazapine demonstrated an earlier antidepressant response in terminally ill cancer patients, although at an increased risk of the nervous system side effects.
    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  4. van Langeveld AWB, Teo PS, Mars M, Feskens EJM, de Graaf C, de Vries JHM
    Eur J Clin Nutr, 2019 01;73(1):132-140.
    PMID: 30254242 DOI: 10.1038/s41430-018-0300-1
    BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: Taste is of key importance in food choice and dietary patterns, but studies on taste profiles are limited. We previously assessed dietary taste patterns by 24 h recalls (24hR), but for epidemiological studies food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) may also be suitable. This study compared dietary taste patterns based on FFQ against 24hR and biomarkers of exposure.

    SUBJECTS/METHODS: A taste database including 467 foods' sweet, sour, bitter, salt, umami and fat sensation values was combined with food intake data to assess dietary taste patterns: the contribution to energy intake of 6 taste clusters. The FFQ's reliability was assessed against 3-d 24hR and urinary biomarkers for sodium (Na) and protein intake (N) in Dutch men (n = 449) and women (n = 397) from the NQplus validation study (mean age 53 ± 11 y, BMI 26 ± 4 kg/m2).

    RESULTS: Correlations of dietary taste patterns ranged from 0.39-0.68 between FFQ and 24hR (p 

    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  5. Butt MM, de Run EC
    Int J Health Care Qual Assur, 2010;23(7):658-73.
    PMID: 21125961
    This paper seeks to develop and test the SERVQUAL model scale for measuring Malaysian private health service quality.
    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  6. Jacob MA, Ekker MS, Allach Y, Cai M, Aarnio K, Arauz A, et al.
    Neurology, 2022 Feb 08;98(6):e573-e588.
    PMID: 34906974 DOI: 10.1212/WNL.0000000000013195
    BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: There is a worldwide increase in the incidence of stroke in young adults, with major regional and ethnic differences. Advancing knowledge of ethnic and regional variation in causes and outcomes will be beneficial in implementation of regional health care services. We studied the global distribution of risk factors, causes, and 3-month mortality of young patients with ischemic stroke, by performing a patient data meta-analysis from different cohorts worldwide.

    METHODS: We performed a pooled analysis of individual patient data from cohort studies that included consecutive patients with ischemic stroke aged 18-50 years. We studied differences in prevalence of risk factors and causes of ischemic stroke between different ethnic and racial groups, geographic regions, and countries with different income levels. We investigated differences in 3-month mortality by mixed-effects multivariable logistic regression.

    RESULTS: We included 17,663 patients from 32 cohorts in 29 countries. Hypertension and diabetes were most prevalent in Black (hypertension, 52.1%; diabetes, 20.7%) and Asian patients (hypertension 46.1%, diabetes, 20.9%). Large vessel atherosclerosis and small vessel disease were more often the cause of stroke in high-income countries (HICs; both p < 0.001), whereas "other determined stroke" and "undetermined stroke" were higher in low and middle-income countries (LMICs; both p < 0.001). Patients in LMICs were younger, had less vascular risk factors, and despite this, more often died within 3 months than those from HICs (odds ratio 2.49; 95% confidence interval 1.42-4.36).

    DISCUSSION: Ethnoracial and regional differences in risk factors and causes of stroke at young age provide an understanding of ethnic and racial and regional differences in incidence of ischemic stroke. Our results also highlight the dissimilarities in outcome after stroke in young adults that exist between LMICs and HICs, which should serve as call to action to improve health care facilities in LMICs.

    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  7. Ekker MS, Jacob MA, van Dongen MME, Aarnio K, Annamalai AK, Arauz A, et al.
    BMJ Open, 2019 Nov 14;9(11):e031144.
    PMID: 31727655 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-031144
    INTRODUCTION: Worldwide, 2 million patients aged 18-50 years suffer a stroke each year, and this number is increasing. Knowledge about global distribution of risk factors and aetiologies, and information about prognosis and optimal secondary prevention in young stroke patients are limited. This limits evidence-based treatment and hampers the provision of appropriate information regarding the causes of stroke, risk factors and prognosis of young stroke patients.

    METHODS AND ANALYSIS: The Global Outcome Assessment Life-long after stroke in young adults (GOAL) initiative aims to perform a global individual patient data meta-analysis with existing data from young stroke cohorts worldwide. All patients aged 18-50 years with ischaemic stroke or intracerebral haemorrhage will be included. Outcomes will be the distribution of stroke aetiology and (vascular) risk factors, functional outcome after stroke, risk of recurrent vascular events and death and finally the use of secondary prevention. Subgroup analyses will be made based on age, gender, aetiology, ethnicity and climate of residence.

    ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approval for the GOAL study has already been obtained from the Medical Review Ethics Committee region Arnhem-Nijmegen. Additionally and when necessary, approval will also be obtained from national or local institutional review boards in the participating centres. When needed, a standardised data transfer agreement will be provided for participating centres. We plan dissemination of our results in peer-reviewed international scientific journals and through conference presentations. We expect that the results of this unique study will lead to better understanding of worldwide differences in risk factors, causes and outcome of young stroke patients.

    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  8. Poh KS, Qureshi S, Hong YK, Moreno T, Stocchi L, Hull T, et al.
    Dis Colon Rectum, 2020 05;63(5):639-645.
    PMID: 32032200 DOI: 10.1097/DCR.0000000000001617
    BACKGROUND: Restorative total proctocolectomy with IPAA may not be feasible in some patients because of technical intraoperative limitations.

    OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess preoperative predictors for intraoperative IPAA and review management.

    DESIGN: This is a retrospective review.

    SETTING: This study was conducted at Cleveland Clinic between January 2010 and May 2018.

    PATIENTS: Patients ≥18 years of age who underwent ileoanal pouch surgery were included. Patients with successful pouch creation as planned were grouped as "successful IPAA creation." Operative reports of patients who underwent alternative procedures were reviewed to identify cases when the pouch was preoperatively planned but intraoperatively abandoned (IPAA-abandoned group). Multivariate logistic regression models were developed to determine predictors of intraoperative pouch abandonment. We also reviewed the management of patients in whom the initial pouch creation failed.

    MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary outcomes measured were preoperative predictors for intraoperative ileoanal pouch abandonment.

    RESULTS: A total of 1438 patients were offered an ileoanal pouch; 21 (1.5%) experienced pouch abandonment due to inadequate reach (n = 17) and other technical reasons (n = 4). These patients underwent alternative procedures such as end or loop ileostomy with/without proctectomy. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated male sex (OR, 6.021; 95% CI, 1.540-23.534), BMI (OR, 1.217; 95% CI, 1.114-1.329), and a 2-stage procedure (OR, 14.510; 95% CI, 4.123-51.064) as independent factors associated with intraoperative abandonment of pouch creation. Alternative procedures were total proctocolectomy with end ileostomy (n = 14) and total abdominal colectomy with end ileostomy without proctectomy (n = 7). Ultimately, pouch creation was achieved in 6 of 21 patients after a median interval of 8.8 (range, 4.1-34.8) months. All patients had intentional weight loss before a reattempt and total abdominal colectomy with end ileostomy without proctectomy as their initial procedure.

    LIMITATIONS: This study was limited by its retrospective nature.

    CONCLUSIONS: Ileoanal pouch abandonment is rare and can be mitigated by initial total abdominal colectomy and weight loss. Male, obese patients are at a higher risk of failure. Intraoperative assessment of ileoanal pouch feasibility should occur before rectal dissection. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B156. PREDICCIÓN MULTIVARIANTE DEL ABANDONO INTRAOPERATORIO DE LA ANASTOMOSIS ANAL CON BOLSA ILEAL: La proctocolectomía total restaurativa con anastomosis de bolsa ileoanal puede no ser posible en algunos pacientes debido a limitaciones técnicas intraoperatorias.Evaluar los predictores preoperatorios para el abandono intraoperatorio de la bolsa ileoanal y revisar el manejo.Revisión retrospectiva.Cleveland Clinic entre Enero de 2010 y mayo de 2018.Pacientes > 18 años que se sometieron a cirugía de bolsa ileoanal. Los pacientes con una creación exitosa de la bolsa según lo planeado se agruparon como "creación exitosa de anastomosis de bolsa ileoanal". Se revisaron los informes operativos de los pacientes que se sometieron a procedimientos alternativos para identificar los casos en que la bolsa se planificó preoperatoriamente pero se abandonó intraoperatoriamente (grupo de "anastomosis anal de bolsa ileoanal abandonada"). Se desarrollaron modelos de regresión logística multivariante para determinar los predictores del abandono intraoperatorio de la bolsa. También revisamos el manejo de pacientes que fallaron en la creación inicial de la bolsa.Predictores preoperatorios para el abandono intraoperatorio de la bolsa ileoanal.A un total de 1438 pacientes se les ofreció una bolsa ileoanal; 21 (1.5%) experimentaron abandono de la bolsa debido a un alcance inadecuado (n = 17) y otras razones técnicas (n = 4). Estos pacientes se sometieron a procedimientos alternativos como ileostomía final o de asa con / sin proctectomía. El análisis de regresión logística multivariante indicó género masculino (OR, 6.021; IC 95%, 1.540-23.534), índice de masa corporal (OR, 1.217; IC 95%, 1.114-1.329) y procedimiento en 2 etapas (OR, 14.510; IC 95%, 4.123-51.064) como factores independientes asociados con el abandono intraoperatorio de la creación de la bolsa. Los procedimientos alternativos fueron la proctocolectomía total con ileostomía final (n = 14) y la colectomía abdominal total con ileostomía final sin proctectomía (n = 7). Finalmente, la creación de la bolsa se logró en 6/21 pacientes después de un intervalo medio de 8.8 (rango, 4.1-34.8) meses. Todos los pacientes tuvieron pérdida de peso intencional antes de la reintenta y colectomía abdominal total con ileostomía final sin proctectomía como procedimiento inicial.Naturaleza retrospectiva.El abandono de la bolsa ileoanal es raro y puede mitigarse mediante la colectomía abdominal total inicial y la pérdida de peso. Los pacientes masculinos y obesos tienen un mayor riesgo de fracaso. La evaluación intraoperatoria de la viabilidad de la bolsa ileoanal debe ocurrir antes de la disección rectal. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B156. (Traducción-Dr. Yesenia Rojas-Kahlil).

    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  9. bin Sabir Husin Athar PP, bte Ahmad Norhan N, bin Saim L, bin Md Rose I, bte Ramli R
    Ann Acad Med Singap, 2008 Sep;37(9):788-3.
    PMID: 18989497
    INTRODUCTION: Metastatic adenocarcinoma from the gastrointestinal tract to the sinonasal tract is rare. The histological morphology of this lesion is indistinguishable from the colonic variant of primary sinus adenocarcinoma or intestinal-type adenocarcinoma (ITAC).

    CLINICAL PICTURE: This is a report of a case of metastatic adenocarcinoma of colorectal origin to the paranasal sinuses in a 52-year-old female who was previously treated for adenocarcinoma of the sigmoid colon. A histologic study of the surgical specimen from the sinonasal cavity demonstrated a tumour identical to the patient's prior primary tumour of the colon. The sinonasal neoplastic tissue showed marked positivity for carcinoembryonic antigen and expressed cytokeratin 20, which differentiates metastatic colonic adenocarcinoma from ITAC.

    TREATMENT/OUTCOME: The patient received palliative radiation but died 3 months after the diagnosis.

    CONCLUSION: Distinguishing metastatic adenocarcinoma from gastrointestinal tract from ITAC can be difficult. In view of the resemblance, immunohistochemical staining can help in differentiating them. It is important to recognise these as metastatic lesions as the treatment is mainly palliative.

    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  10. Marasco G, Cremon C, Barbaro MR, Salvi D, Cacciari G, Kagramanova A, et al.
    Am J Gastroenterol, 2022 Jan 01;117(1):147-157.
    PMID: 34751672 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000001541
    INTRODUCTION: Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms in coronavirus-19 disease (COVID-19) have been reported with great variability and without standardization. In hospitalized patients, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence of GI symptoms, factors associated with their occurrence, and variation at 1 month.

    METHODS: The GI-COVID-19 is a prospective, multicenter, controlled study. Patients with and without COVID-19 diagnosis were recruited at hospital admission and asked for GI symptoms at admission and after 1 month, using the validated Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale questionnaire.

    RESULTS: The study included 2036 hospitalized patients. A total of 871 patients (575 COVID+ and 296 COVID-) were included for the primary analysis. GI symptoms occurred more frequently in patients with COVID-19 (59.7%; 343/575 patients) than in the control group (43.2%; 128/296 patients) (P < 0.001). Patients with COVID-19 complained of higher presence or intensity of nausea, diarrhea, loose stools, and urgency as compared with controls. At a 1-month follow-up, a reduction in the presence or intensity of GI symptoms was found in COVID-19 patients with GI symptoms at hospital admission. Nausea remained increased over controls. Factors significantly associated with nausea persistence in COVID-19 were female sex, high body mass index, the presence of dyspnea, and increased C-reactive protein levels.

    DISCUSSION: The prevalence of GI symptoms in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 is higher than previously reported. Systemic and respiratory symptoms are often associated with GI complaints. Nausea may persist after the resolution of COVID-19 infection.

    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  11. Wan Muhaizan WM, Phang KS, Sharifah NA, al Amin D
    Malays J Pathol, 1998 Dec;20(2):109-11.
    PMID: 10879272
    A rare case of primary squamous cell carcinoma of the thyroid is reported herein. A 64-year-old Malay lady presented with a gradually enlarging thyroid nodule for the past 6 months and underwent total thyroidectomy. Histopathology revealed a squamous cell carcinoma of the thyroid with complete resection. Possible primary tumour elsewhere was excluded. Postoperative irradiation was given and patient is still alive after 2 years of follow-up.
    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  12. Dhabali AA, Awang R, Hamdan Z, Zyoud SH
    Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther, 2012 Dec;50(12):851-61.
    PMID: 23006441 DOI: 10.5414/CP201689
    OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study were 1) to obtain information regarding the prescribing pattern of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in the primary care setting at a Malaysian university, 2) to determine the prevalence and types of potential NSAID prescription related problems (PRPs), and 3) to identify patient characteristics associated with exposure to these potential PRPs.
    METHODS: We retrospectively collected data from 1 academic year using the electronic medical records of patients in the University Sains Malaysia (USM) primary care system. The defined daily dose (DDD) methodology and the anatomical therapeutic chemical (ATC) drug classification system were used in the analysis and comparison of the data. Statements representing potential NSAID PRPs were developed from authoritative drug information sources. Then, algorithms were developed to screen the databases for these potential PRPs. Descriptive and comparative statistics were used to characterize DRPs.
    RESULTS: During the study period, 12,470 NSAID prescriptions were prescribed for 6,509 patients (mean ± SD = 1.92 ± 1.83). This represented a prevalence of 35,944 per 100,000 patients, or 36%. Based on their DDDs, mefenamic acid and diclofenac were the most prescribed NSAIDs. 573 potential NSAID-related PRPs were observed in a cohort of 432 patients, representing a prevalence of 6,640 per 100,000 NSAIDs users, or 6.6% of all NSAID users. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that patients with a Malay ethnic background (p < 0.001), members of the staff (p < 0.001), having 4 or more prescribers (p < 0.001) or having 2 - 3 prescribers (p = 0.02), and representing 4 or more long-term therapeutic groups (LTTGs) (p < 0.001) or 2 - 3 LTTGs (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with an increased chance of exposure to potential NSAID related PRPs.
    CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study in Malaysia that presents data on the prescribing pattern of NSAIDs and the characteristics of potential NSAID-related PRPs. The prevalence of potential NSAID-related PRPs is frequent in the primary care setting. Exposure to these PRPs is associated with specific sociodemographic and health status factors. These results should help to raise the awareness of clinicians and patients about serious NSAID PRPs.

    Study site: University Sains Malaysia (USM) primary care system.
    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  13. Dhabali AA, Awang R, Zyoud SH
    Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther, 2011 Aug;49(8):500-9.
    PMID: 21781650 DOI: 10.5414/cp201524
    BACKGROUND: The prescription of contraindicated drugs is a preventable medication error, which can cause morbidity and mortality. Recent data on the factors associated with drug contraindications (DCIs) is limited world-wide, especially in Malaysia.

    AIMS: The objectives of this study are 1) to quantify the prevalence of DCIs in a primary care setting at a Malaysian University; 2) to identify patient characteristics associated with increased DCI episodes, and 3) to identify associated factors for these DCIs.

    METHODS: We retrospectively collected data from 1 academic year using computerized databases at the Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) from patients of USM's primary care. Descriptive and comparative statistics were used to characterize DCIs.

    RESULTS: There were 1,317 DCIs during the study period. These were observed in a cohort of 923 patients, out of a total of 17,288 patients, representing 5,339 DCIs per 100,000 patients, or 5.3% of all patients over a 1-year period. Of the 923 exposed patients, 745 (80.7%) were exposed to 1 DCI event, 92 (10%) to 2 DCI events, 35 (3.8%) to 3 DCI events, 18 (2%) to 4 DCI events, and 33 patients (3.6%) were exposed to 5 or more DCI events. The average age of the exposed patients was 30.7 ± 15 y, and 51.5% were male. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that being male (OR = 1.3; 95% CI = 1.1 - 1.5; p < 0.001), being a member of the staff (OR = 3; 95% CI = 2.5 - 3.7; p < 0.001), having 4 or more prescribers (OR = 2.8; 95% CI = 2.2 - 3.6; p < 0.001), and having 4 or more longterm therapeutic groups (OR = 2.3; 95%CI = 1.7 - 3.1; p < 0.001), were significantly associated with increased chance of exposure to DCIs.

    DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study in Malaysia that presents data on the prevalence of DCIs. The prescription of contraindicated drugs was found to be frequent in this primary care setting. Exposure to DCI events was associated with specific socio-demographic and health status factors. Further research is needed to evaluate the relationship between health outcomes and the exposure to DCIs.
    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  14. Hassan Y, Al-Jabi SW, Aziz NA, Looi I, Zyoud SH
    Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol, 2012 Apr;110(4):370-7.
    PMID: 22023326 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-7843.2011.00825.x
    There has been recent interest in combining antiplatelets, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and statins in primary and secondary ischaemic stroke prevention. This observational study was performed to evaluate the impact of adding ACEIs and/or statins to antiplatelets on post-stroke in-hospital mortality. Ischaemic stroke patients attending a hospital in Malaysia over an 18-month period were evaluated. Patients were categorized according to their vital status at discharge. Data included demographic information, risk factors, clinical characteristics and previous medications with particular attention on antiplatelets, ACEIs and statins. In-hospital mortality was compared among patients who were not taking antiplatelets, ACEIs or statins before stroke onset versus those who were taking antiplatelets alone or in combination with either ACEIs, statins or both. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 15. Overall, 637 patients met the study inclusion criteria. After controlling for the effects of confounders, adding ACEIs or statins to antiplatelets significantly decreased the incidence of death after stroke attack by 68% (p = 0.036) and 81% (p = 0.010), respectively, compared to patients on antiplatelets alone or none of these medications. Additionally, the addition of both ACEIs and statins to antiplatelet medication resulted in the highest reduction (by 94%) of the occurrence of death after stroke attack (p < 0.001). Our results suggest that adding ACEIs and/or statins to antiplatelets for patients at risk of developing stroke, either as a primary or as a secondary preventive regimen, was associated with a significant reduction in the incidence of mortality after ischaemic stroke than antiplatelets alone. These results might help reduce the rate of ischaemic stroke morbidity and mortality by enhancing the application of specific therapeutic and management strategies for patients at a high risk of acute stroke.
    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  15. Hassan Y, Al-Jabi SW, Aziz NA, Looi I, Zyoud SH
    Clin Neuropharmacol, 2011 Nov-Dec;34(6):234-40.
    PMID: 21996648 DOI: 10.1097/WNF.0b013e3182348abe
    BACKGROUND: Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), antiplatelets (APs), and statin are increasingly being prescribed for ischemic stroke prevention.
    OBJECTIVES: The objective of the study was to examine whether previous combination therapy of ACEI with AP and/or statin has additive effect compared with ACEI alone on functional outcome after ischemic stroke. Furthermore, factors associated with improving functional outcome were investigated.
    METHODS: Ischemic stroke patients attending a Malaysian hospital in 2008 were categorized according to Barthel Index at discharge. Favorable outcome was defined as Barthel Index of 75 or greater. Data included demographic information, clinical characteristics, and previous medications with particular attention to ACEI, AP, and statin.
    RESULTS: Overall, 505 patients were included. Variables associated with good functional outcome were younger age (P = 0.002), first-ever attack (P = 0.016), lacunar (P = 0.015) or posterior circulation infarct stroke subtype (P = 0.034), minor Glasgow Coma Scale (P < 0.001), and previous use of ACEI alone or combined with AP and/or statin (P = 0.002). Using ACEI alone as the reference for ACEI + AP, ACEI + statin, or ACEI + AP + statin combinations, there was no significant difference among combinations on improving functional outcome (P = 0.852).
    CONCLUSIONS: Prestroke use of ACEI either alone or combined with AP and/or statin was associated with better functional outcome. Previous use of ACEI in combination with AP and/or statin did not significantly differ from ACEI alone in their effect on outcome. Our study provides a potential rationale for optimizing the use of ACEI among individuals at risk of developing ischemic stroke.
    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  16. Hassan Y, Al-Jabi SW, Aziz NA, Looi I, Zyoud SH
    Fundam Clin Pharmacol, 2011 Jun;25(3):388-94.
    PMID: 20608996 DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-8206.2010.00846.x
    Statins can reduce the risk of stroke in at-risk populations and improve survival after acute ischemic stroke (AIS) among patients with previous statin use. This study aimed to investigate the impact of statin use before AIS onset on in-hospital mortality and identify the factors related to in-hospital mortality among patients with and without previous statin use. A retrospective cohort study of all patients with AIS attending hospital from June 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008. Data were collected from medical records including demographic information, diagnostic information, risk factors, previous statin use, and vital discharge status. Chi-square, Fisher's exact tests, student's t-test, and Mann-Whitney U test, whatever appropriate, were used to test the significance between the variables, and multiple logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with in-hospital mortality. Altogether, 386 patients with AIS were studied, of which 113 (29.3%) had a documented previous statin use. A total of 62 (16.1%) patients with AIS died in hospital. In-hospital mortality was significantly lower among previous statin users (P = 0.013). The presence of atrial fibrillation (AF) increased in-hospital mortality among patients with or without previous statin use. The independent predictors for in-hospital mortality among AIS patients without previous statin use were the presence of diabetes mellitus (P = 0.047), AF (P = 0.045), and renal impairment (P < 0.001). The prophylactic administration of statins significantly reduces post-AIS in-hospital mortality. Furthermore, the identification of predictors of in-hospital mortality might reduce death rates and enhance the application of specific therapeutic and management strategies to patients at a high risk of dying.
    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  17. Abu Taha A, Abu-Zaydeh AH, Ardah RA, Al-Jabi SW, Sweileh WM, Awang R, et al.
    Zoonoses Public Health, 2016 09;63(6):449-57.
    PMID: 26752329 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12249
    Antibiotics are considered to be among the most commonly sold drug classes in Palestine. Resistance to antibiotics has increased for reasons relating to the use and misuse of antibiotics. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, and attitudes regarding antibiotic use and awareness about resistance among adults visiting the emergency departments at hospitals in North Palestine. A self-administered cross-sectional questionnaire survey involving participants aged 18 or over was conducted from June 2012 to February 2013. Adults who visited the emergency departments at hospitals in North Palestine were included. Demographic characteristics, knowledge and attitudes towards antibiotic use were included in the questionnaire. Poor and good knowledge were defined as a total knowledge score of 0-7 and 8-15 of 15 questions, respectively. Attitude scores of 0-3 and 4-7 of 7 questions were considered poor and good, respectively. A total of 375 questionnaires were included in the study. A response rate of 83.3% was attained. About 55.0% of the participants had a good knowledge and 56.5% had a good attitude towards rational antibiotic use. A significant positive correlation was shown between participants' knowledge scores and participants' attitude scores towards antibiotic use (R = 0.344, P = 0.001. Participants with a high family income were more likely to be aware of appropriate antibiotic use than participants with a low family income (P-value <0.001). Participants with a higher educational level (university) had a good attitude towards rational antibiotic use than those with a lower education level (P-value <0.001). This study has documented important knowledge and attitude gaps in antibiotic use. These findings will help health policymakers in Palestine to implement intervention programmes to rationalize antibiotic use. Continuing medical education, professional development and training workshops for healthcare professionals regarding rational use of antibiotics and health risks associated with the spread of antibiotic resistance are needed. In addition, minimizing non-prescription use of antibiotics and increasing the public awareness about the health and economic hazards of antibiotic resistance are also required.
    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  18. Hassan Y, Al-Jabi SW, Aziz NA, Looi I, Zyoud SH
    Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther, 2011 Oct;49(10):605-13.
    PMID: 21961485 DOI: 10.5414/cp201574
    BACKGROUND: Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) are more prone to develop atherosclerotic complications including stroke. Moreover, as a primary and secondary prevention of stroke, antiplatelet therapy is recommended by clinical guidelines for patients with DM.

    AIMS: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of antiplatelet therapy use prior to current stroke in diabetic ischemic stroke patients, to examine the factors associated with the use of this important therapy and to assess the impact of the previous use of antiplatelet therapy on ischemic stroke outcomes.

    METHODS: An observational study of diabetic acute ischemic stroke patients attending a Malaysian hospital during a 1-year period was carried out. Demographic information, risk factors, previous antiplatelet use and variables used to assess stroke outcomes were collected from medical records.

    RESULTS: Overall, 295 diabetic stroke patients were analyzed. The prevalence of previous antiplatelet use among diabetic patients was 38.3%. The independent variables associated with the previous use of antiplatelet medication were previous stroke attack (p < 0.001) and ischemic heart disease (p < 0.001). Better outcomes as measured by a minor Glasgow Coma Scale at admission (p = 0.032), and a higher Modified Barthel index at discharge (p = 0.027) were observed among patients on previous antiplatelet therapy.

    CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that antiplatelet therapy is under prescribed among such diabetic stroke patients, particularly in primary prevention. Effective methods to increase antiplatelet use and to enhance the adherence of clinical practice guidelines should be considered at the national and community level.
    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  19. Hassan Y, Aziz NA, Al-Jabi SW, Looi I, Zyoud SH
    J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther, 2010 Sep;15(3):274-81.
    PMID: 20624923 DOI: 10.1177/1074248410373751
    Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) have shown promising results in decreasing the incidence and the severity of ischemic stroke in populations at risk and in improving ischemic stroke outcomes.
    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
  20. Hassan Y, Aziz NA, Al-Jabi SW, Looi I, Zyoud SH
    J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther, 2010 Sep;15(3):282-8.
    PMID: 20472813 DOI: 10.1177/1074248410368049
    BACKGROUND: Hypertension and ischemic heart disease (IHD) are among the most prevalent modifiable risk factors for stroke. Clinical trial evidence suggests that antihypertensive medications are recommended for prevention of recurrent ischemic stroke in hypertensive and normotensive patients.
    OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study were to analyze and evaluate the utilization of antihypertensive medication for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) or transient ischemic attack (TIA) survivors in relation to recent recommendations and guidelines and to compare their use among patients with or without IHD.
    METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study of all patients with AIS/TIA attending the hospital from July 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008. Demographic data, clinical characteristics, different classes of antihypertensive medications, and different antihypertensive combinations prescribed to AIS/TIA survivors were analyzed among patients with and without IHD. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) program version 15 was used for data analysis.
    RESULTS: In all, 383 AIS/TIA survivors were studied, of which 66 (19.5%) had a documented history of IHD. Three quarters (n = 260; 76.9%) of AIS or TIA survivors received antihypertensive medication, mostly as monotherapy, at discharge. The majority of patients (n = 201, 59.5%) were prescribed angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs). Patients with IHD were significantly prescribed more β-blockers than patients without IHD (P = .003). A history of hypertension, a history of diabetes mellitus, and age were significantly associated with prescription of antihypertensive medications at discharge (P < .001, P < .001, and P < .001, respectively).
    CONCLUSION: Patterns of antihypertensive therapy were commonly but not adequately consistent with international guidelines. Screening stroke survivors for blood pressure control, initiating appropriate antihypertensive medications, and decreasing the number of untreated patients might help reduce the risk of recurrent strokes and increase survival.
    Matched MeSH terms: Middle Aged
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