Displaying publications 41 - 60 of 3370 in total

Abstract:
Sort:
  1. Hughes K, Ong CN
    J Epidemiol Community Health, 1998 Mar;52(3):181-5.
    PMID: 9616423
    STUDY OBJECTIVE: To examine the hypothesis that the higher rates of coronary heart disease (CHD) in Indians (South Asians) compared with Malays and Chinese is partly because of differences in antioxidants (vitamins A, C, and E, and selenium) and pro-oxidants (iron).
    DESIGN: Cross sectional study of the general population.
    SETTING: Singapore.
    PARTICIPANTS: Random sample of 941 persons aged 30 to 69 years.
    MAIN RESULTS: There were moderate correlations between vitamin A and vitamin E, and between these vitamins and selenium. Mean plasma vitamins A and E were similar by ethnic group. Vitamin A concentration for Indians were (men 0.66 and women 0.51 mg/l), Malays (men 0.67 and women 0.54 mg/l), and Chinese (men 0.68 and women 0.52 mg/l). Vitamin E concentrations for Indians were (men 12.9 and women 12.8 mg/l), Malays (men 13.6 and women 13.3 mg/l), and Chinese (men 12.6 and women 12.6 mg/l). In contrast, mean plasma vitamin C concentrations were lower in Indians (men 5.7 and women 6.9 mg/l) and Malays (men 5.1 and women 6.4 mg/l) than Chinese (men 6.3 and women 8.4 mg/l). Mean serum selenium was lower in Indians (men 117 and women 115 micrograms/l) than Malays (men 122 and women 122 micrograms/l) and Chinese (men 126 and women 119 micrograms/l). Mean serum ferritin was much lower in Indians (men 132 and women 50 micrograms/l) than Malays (men 175 and women 85 micrograms/l) and Chinese (men 236 and women 92 micrograms/l).
    MAIN CONCLUSIONS: Lower vitamin C and selenium in Indians, particularly in combination, could play a part in their increased risk of CHD. Vitamins A and E, and ferritin (iron) have no such role. Lower vitamin C in Indians and Malays is probably because of its destruction by more prolonged cooking. In Indians, lower selenium is probably because of a lower dietary intake and the much lower ferritin to a lower dietary intake of iron and its binding by phytates.
    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  2. Yusoff K
    Asia Pac J Clin Nutr, 2002;11 Suppl 7:S443-7.
    PMID: 12492632
    Cardiovascular disease, in particular coronary artery disease (CAD), remains the most important cause of morbidity and mortality in developed countries and, in the near future, more so in the developing world. Atherosclerotic plaque formation is the underlying basis for CAD. Growth of the plaque leads to coronary stenosis, causing a progressive decrease in blood flow that results in angina pectoris. Acute myocardial infarction and unstable angina were recently recognised as related to plaque rupture, not progressive coronary stenosis. Acute thrombus formation causes an abrupt coronary occlusion. The characteristics of the fibrin cap, contents of the plaque, rheological factors and active inflammation within the plaque contribute to plaque rupture. Oxidative processes are important in plaque formation. Oxidized low density lipoproteins (LDL) but not unoxidized LDL is engulfed by resident intimal macrophages, transforming them into foam cells which develop into fatty streaks, the precursors of the atherosclerotic plaque. Inflammation is important both in plaque formation and rupture. Animal studies have shown that antioxidants reduce plaque formation and lead to plaque stabilisation. In humans, high intakes of antioxidants are associated with lower incidence of CAD, despite high serum cholesterol levels. This observation suggests a role for inflammation in CAD and that reducing inflammation using antioxidants may ameliorate these processes. Men and women with high intakes of vitamin E were found to have less CAD. Vitamin E supplementation was associated with a significant reduction in myocardial infarction and cardiovascular events in the incidence of recurrent myocardial infarction. In the hierarchy of evidence in evidence-based medicine, data from large placebo-controlled clinical trials is considered necessary. Results from various mega-trials have not shown benefits (nor adverse effects) conferred by vitamin E supplementation, suggesting that vitamin E has no role in the treatment of CAD. These results do not seem to confirm, at the clinical level, the effect of antioxidants against active inflammation during plaque rupture. However, a closer examination of these studies showed a number of limitations, rendering them inconclusive in addressing the role of vitamin E in CAD prevention and treatment. Further studies that specifically address the issue of vitamin E in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and in the treatment of CAD need be performed. These studies should use the more potent antioxidant property of alpha-tocotrienol vitamin E.
    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  3. Chua GHI, Phang SCW, Wong YO, Ho LS, Palanisamy UD, Abdul Kadir K
    Nutrients, 2020 Nov 27;12(12).
    PMID: 33261162 DOI: 10.3390/nu12123659
    Malaysian national morbidity surveys on diabetic prevalence have shown ethnical variation among prediabetic and diabetic populations. In our attempt to understand this variation, we studied the α-tocopherol, insulin resistance, β-cell function and receptor of advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) levels, as risk factors of type 2 diabetes, among the different ethnicities. In total, 299 subjects of Malay, Chinese, Indian and aboriginal Orang Asli (OA) heritage were recruited from urban and rural areas of Malaysia by stratified random sampling. Serum α-tocopherol concentrations were measured using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and insulin concentrations were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In subjects with pre-diabetes, OAs had the highest α-tocopherol level, followed by Chinese and Malays (0.8938, 0.8564 and 0.6948 respectively; p < 0.05). In diabetic subjects, Malays had significantly higher RAGE levels compared to Chinese and Indians (5579.31, 3473.40 and 3279.52 pg/mL respectively, p = 0.001). Low α-tocopherol level (OR = 3.021, p < 0.05) and high insulin resistance (OR = 2.423, p < 0.05) were linked strongly to the development of pre-diabetes. Low β-cell function (OR = 5.657, p < 0.001) and high RAGE level (OR = 3.244, p < 0.05) were linked strongly to the development of diabetes from pre-diabetes. These factors might be involved in the development of diabetes, along with genetic and environmental factors.
    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  4. Joseph P, Pais P, Gao P, Teo K, Xavier D, Lopez-Jaramillo P, et al.
    Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis, 2023 Feb;33(2):434-440.
    PMID: 36604262 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2022.11.001
    BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Vitamin D has mostly been tested in Western populations. We examined the effect of high dose vitamin D in a population drawn predominantly from outside of Western countries.

    METHODS AND RESULTS: This randomized trial tested vitamin D 60,000 IU monthly in 5670 participants without vascular disease but at increased CV risk. The primary outcome was fracture. The secondary outcome was the composite of CV death, myocardial infarction stroke, cancer, fracture or fall. Death was a pre-specified outcome. Mean age was 63.9 years, and 3005 (53.0%) were female. 3034 (53.5%) participants resided in South Asia, 1904 (33.6%) in South East Asia, 480 (8.5%) in South America, and 252 (4.4%) in other regions. Mean follow-up was 4.6 years. A fracture occurred in 20 participants (0.2 per 100 person years) assigned to vitamin D, and 19 (0.1 per 100 person years) assigned to placebo (HR 1.06, 95% CI 0.57-1.99, p-value = 0.86). The secondary outcome occurred in 222 participants (1.8 per 100 person years) assigned to vitamin D, and 198 (1.6 per 100 person years) assigned to placebo (HR 1.13, 95% CI 0.93-1.37, p = 0.22). 172 (1.3 per 100 person years) participants assigned to vitamin D died, compared with 135 (1.0 per 100 person years) assigned to placebo (HR 1.29, 95% CI 1.03-1.61, p = 0.03).

    CONCLUSION: In a population predominantly from South Asia, South East Asia and South America, high-dose vitamin D did not reduce adverse skeletal or non-skeletal outcomes. Higher mortality was observed in the vitamin D group.

    REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT01646437.

    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  5. Chin KY, Ima-Nirwana S, Ibrahim S, Mohamed IN, Wan Ngah WZ
    Nutrients, 2014 Nov 26;6(12):5419-33.
    PMID: 25431881 DOI: 10.3390/nu6125419
    Vitamin D insufficiency is a global health problem. The data on vitamin D status in Malaysian men is insufficient. This study aimed to investigate vitamin D status among Chinese and Malay men in Malaysia and its associating factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 383 men aged 20 years and above, residing in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Their age, ethnicity, body anthropometry and calcaneal speed of sound (SOS) were recorded. Their fasting blood was collected for serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), intact parathyroid (PTH), total calcium and inorganic phosphate assays. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as a serum 25(OH)D level <30 nmol/L and insufficiency as a serum 25(OH)D level between 30 and 50 nmol/L. The overall prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 0.5%, and insufficiency was 22.7%. Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency were more prevalent in the Malays compared to the Chinese. Being Chinese, older in age, having lower body mass index (BMI) and a high physical activity status were associated significantly with a higher serum 25(OH)D level (p < 0.05). The serum PTH level was inversely associated with the serum 25(OH)D level (p < 0.05). As a conclusion, a significant proportion of Malaysian men have vitamin D insufficiency, although deficiency is uncommon. Steps should be taken to correct the vitamin D status of these men.
    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  6. Shafinaz IS, Moy FM
    BMC Public Health, 2016 Mar 07;16:232.
    PMID: 26951992 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-2924-1
    BACKGROUND: Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in both temperate as well as tropical countries. Obesity is one of the factors contributing to vitamin D deficiency. As our country has a high prevalence of overweight and obesity, we aimed to study serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) level and its association with adiposity using various adiposity indicators; and to study other risk factors that affect serum 25(OH)D level among multi-ethnic adults in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

    METHODS: This was a cross sectional study conducted with a multistage sampling. All permanent teachers working in government secondary schools in Kuala Lumpur were invited for the study. The data collection included serum 25(OH)D, Parathyroid Hormone (PTH), body fat percentage, waist circumference, body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure. Demographic characteristics, sun avoidance, sun exposure and physical activity were enquired from the participants using a self-administered questionnaire. The data was analyzed using a complex sample analysis.

    RESULTS: A total of 858 participants were recruited. Majority of them were Malays, females and had tertiary education. The overall prevalence of vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/ml) was 67.4 %. Indian participants (80.9 %) had the highest proportion of vitamin D deficiency, followed by Malays (75.6 %), others (44.9 %) and Chinese (25.1 %). There was a significant negative association between serum 25(OH)D level with BMI (β = -0.23) and body fat percentage (β = -0.14). In the multivariate linear regression analysis, Malays, Indians and females (p 

    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  7. Ismail NA, Mohamed Ismail NA, Bador KM
    J Obstet Gynaecol, 2021 Aug;41(6):899-903.
    PMID: 33962550 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2020.1820462
    We investigated if vitamin D is independently associated with hyperglycaemia in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Serum 25 hydroxy vitamin D (25OHD), fasting blood glucose (FBG), HbA1c, fructosamine, insulin sensitivity (QUICKI equation), body mass index, clothing style and outdoor activity were measured in 58 pregnant women with GDM during the third trimester. 25OHD was also measured in 20 women with normal pregnancies. There was no significant difference in mean 25OHD concentrations between GDM (14.43 ± 5.27 ng/ml) and normal (15.45 ± 5.29 ng/ml) pregnancies, p = .354. However, a higher percentage of GDM subjects had 25OHD concentration <19.8 ng/ml (86 versus 65%, p = .003). 25OHD did not correlate with FBG, HbA1c, fructosamine, insulin sensitivity or insulin dosage (p > .05). On multivariate analysis, only ethnicity (p = .006) and outdoor activity (p = .004) were associated with 25OHD. We conclude that the lower 25OHD levels in our GDM patients were related to ethnicity and outdoor activity (Study FF-2017-111, National University of Malaysia, 16 March 2017).IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on this subject? Vitamin D deficiency in pregnancy is widespread and particularly in certain ethnic groups. Low vitamin D levels may be an aetiological factor for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) but previous studies provide conflicting results perhaps due to confounding factors.What do the results of this study add? In this study of pregnant women with GDM from different ethnic backgrounds, we analysed serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25OHD) levels together with other confounding factors, that is, body mass index, ethnicity and sunlight exposure. Furthermore, instead of using consensus values, we determined cut-offs for different vitamin D status from normal pregnancies matched for gestational age and ethnicity. We found that a higher percentage of GDM subjects had lower vitamin D status but there was no correlation with hyperglycaemia or insulin sensitivity. The study showed that lower vitamin D levels in GDM was associated with ethnicity and less outdoor activity.What the implications are of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? In GDM patients, low vitamin D levels may be modifiable by supplementation or lifestyle change. Longitudinal studies are needed to determine whether this would impact on the occurrence of GDM.
    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  8. Haq A, Svobodová J, Imran S, Stanford C, Razzaque MS
    J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol, 2016 11;164:209-213.
    PMID: 26877203 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2016.02.007
    Vitamin D deficiency is a global problem, thought to be related to lack of sunlight exposure, and usually accompanied by reduced dietary intake. This study was designed to determine vitamin D status of 60,979 patients admitted to the Burjeel Hospital of VPS healthcare in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE) from October 2012 to September 2014. The total concentrations of vitamin D [25(OH)D] of all the studied patients were measured in a single laboratory. Of the studied patients, 57.5% were female and 42.5% were male. Serum 25(OH)D (total) measurements showed 82.5% of the studied patients have vitamin D deficiency to insufficiency. 26.4% of females and 18.4% of males have extreme deficiency of 25(OH)D. There was higher variability of vitamin D in group of females then males according to coefficient of variation. In our studied cohort teenagers (13-19 years) have shown the lowest levels of serum vitamin D (data not shown and will be communicated as a separate publication). The prevalence of hypovitaminosis D is significantly high among population of UAE, Saudi Arabia and many Middle Eastern countries, especially among women, despite abundant sunshine. 86.1% UAE nationals and 78.9% visitors of other nationalities were found <75nmol/L of 25(OH)D. 28.4% of UAE nationals and 17.5% of visitors of other nationalities have extreme deficiency of 25(OH)D. Our results are significant, as all of our patients are residing permanently in the UAE or visitors that has yearlong sunlight. In addition, measuring 25(OH)D concentrations in a single laboratory minimized test level variations. Our current study formed the basis of further studies to determine if vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency can aggravate systemic diseases, including hypertension, diabetes or obesity that are also wide-spread in the Middle Eastern region.
    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  9. Mat S, Jaafar MH, Sockalingam S, Raja J, Kamaruzzaman SB, Chin AV, et al.
    Int J Rheum Dis, 2018 May;21(5):930-936.
    PMID: 29611292 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185X.13279
    AIM: To determine the association between vitamin D and knee pain among participants of the Malaysian Elders Longitudinal Research (MELoR) study.

    METHOD: This was a cross-sectional study from the MELoR study consisting of a representative group of 1011 community-dwelling older persons (57% female), mean age 86.5 (54-94) years; 313 were Malays, 367 Chinese and 330 Indians. Participants were asked if they had knee pain. Levels of serum 25-hydroxy cholecalciferol (25-[OH]D), an indicator of vitamin D status, were measured using routine laboratory techniques.

    RESULTS: In unadjusted analysis, presence of knee pain was significantly associated with vitamin D deficiency (odds ratio [OR] 1.42; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.08-1.85, P 0.011). Vitamin D levels were significantly associated with ethnicity differences where Malays (OR 7.08; 95% CI 4.94-10.15) and Indians (OR 6.10; 95% CI 4.28-9.71) have lower levels of vitamin D compared to Chinese. Subsequent multivariate analysis revealed that the association between vitamin D deficiency and knee pain was confounded by ethnic differences.

    CONCLUSION: A previous study suggested that vitamin D deficiency was associated with knee pain. This relationship was reproduced in our study, but we further established that the association was explained by ethnic variations. As vitamin D status is dependent on skin tone, diet and sunlight exposure, which are all effected by ethnicity, future studies are now required to determine whether a true relationship exists between vitamin D and knee pain.
    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  10. Fong CY, Kong AN, Poh BK, Mohamed AR, Khoo TB, Ng RL, et al.
    Epilepsia, 2016 08;57(8):1271-9.
    PMID: 27378185 DOI: 10.1111/epi.13443
    OBJECTIVE: Long-term use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) is a significant risk factor for vitamin D deficiency in children with epilepsy. The aims of our study were to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors for vitamin D deficiency among Malaysian children with epilepsy.

    METHODS: Cross-sectional study of ambulant children with epilepsy on long-term AEDs for >1 year seen in three tertiary hospitals in Malaysia from April 2014 to April 2015. Detailed assessment of pubertal status, skin pigmentation, sunshine exposure behavior, physical activity, dietary vitamin D and calcium intake, anthropometric measurements and bone health blood tests (vitamin D, alkaline phosphatase, calcium, phosphate, and parathyroid hormone levels) were obtained on all patients. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D] levels ≤35 nmol/L and insufficiency as 25(OH)D levels of 36-50 nmol/L.

    RESULTS: A total of 244 children (146 male) participated in the study. Ages ranged between 3.7 and 18.8 years (mean 12.3 years). 25(OH)D levels ranged between 7.5 and 140.9 nmol/L (mean 53.9 nmol/L). Vitamin D deficiency was identified in 55 patients (22.5%), and a further 48 (19.7%) had vitamin D insufficiency. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified polytherapy >1 AED (odds ratio [OR] 2.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07-4.36), age >12 years (OR 4.16, 95% CI 1.13-15.30), Indian ethnicity (OR 6.97, 95% CI 2.48-19.55), sun exposure time 30-60 min/day (OR 2.44, 95% CI 1.05-5.67), sun exposure time <30 min/day (OR 3.83, 95% CI 1.61-9.09), and female (OR 2.61, 95% CI 1.31-5.20) as statistically significant (p < 0.05) risk factors for vitamin D deficiency.

    SIGNIFICANCE: Despite living in the tropics, a high proportion of Malaysian children with epilepsy are at risk of vitamin D deficiency. Targeted strategies including vitamin D supplementation and lifestyle advice of healthy sunlight exposure behavior should be implemented among children with epilepsy, particularly for those at high risk of having vitamin D deficiency.

    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  11. Fong CY, Ong FN, Ong LC, Khoo TB, Lee ML
    Spinal Cord, 2020 Sep;58(9):1030-1036.
    PMID: 32060410 DOI: 10.1038/s41393-020-0441-7
    STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study.

    OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence and potential risk factors of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency among Malaysian children with spina bifida.

    SETTING: Four Malaysian tertiary hospitals.

    METHODS: Children with spina bifida were assessed for potential demographic, disease severity and lifestyle risk factors for vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency. Blood for 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) was taken. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as 25(OH)D levels ≤ 37.5 nmol/L and insufficiency as 37.6-50 nmol/L.

    RESULTS: Eighty children aged 2-18 years (42 males) participated in the study. Vitamin D levels ranged from 14 to 105 nmol/L (mean 52.8, SD 19.1). Vitamin D deficiency was identified in 18 (22.5%) and insufficiency in 26 (32.5%) children. Logistic regression analysis showed that skin exposure to sunlight ≤ 21% body surface area (OR: 6.2, CI 1.7-22.9) and duration of sun exposure ≤ 35 min/day (OR: 4.0, CI 1.2-14.1) were significant risk factors for vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency, respectively.

    CONCLUSIONS: Over half (55%) of Malaysian children with spina bifida seen in urban tertiary hospitals have vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency. Lifestyle sun exposure behaviours were risk factors for vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency.

    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  12. Moy FM, Hoe VC, Hairi NN, Vethakkan SR, Bulgiba A
    Public Health Nutr, 2017 Jul;20(10):1844-1850.
    PMID: 27086558 DOI: 10.1017/S1368980016000811
    OBJECTIVE: To determine the association of vitamin D status with depression and health-related quality of life among women.

    DESIGN: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among women in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Sociodemographic characteristics, physical activity status, perceived depression and health-related quality of life were assessed via a self-administered questionnaire. Fasting blood samples were taken for the analysis of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, parathyroid hormone, fasting blood glucose and full lipid profile. Complex samples multiple logistic regression analysis was performed.

    SETTING: Public secondary schools in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

    SUBJECTS: Seven hundred and seventy female teachers were included.

    RESULTS: The mean age of participants was 41·15 (95 % CI 40·51, 41·78) years and the majority were ethnic Malays. Over 70 % of them had vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/ml or <50 nmol/l) and two-thirds were at risk for depression. In the multivariate analysis, ethnic Malays (adjusted OR (aOR)=14·72; 95 % CI 2·12, 102·21) and Indians (aOR=14·02; 95 % CI 2·27, 86·59), those at risk for depression (aOR=1·88, 95 % CI 1·27, 2·79) and those with higher parathyroid hormone level (aOR=1·13; 95 % CI 1·01, 1·26) were associated with vitamin D deficiency, while vitamin D deficiency was negatively associated with mental health-related quality of life (Mental Component Summary) scores (aOR=0·98; 95 % CI 0·97, 0·99).

    CONCLUSIONS: Vitamin D deficiency is significantly associated with depression and mental health-related quality of life among women in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  13. Sui CF, Ming LC, Neoh CF, Ibrahim B
    PMID: 26316735 DOI: 10.2147/COPD.S84618
    Background: This study utilized a validated combination of a COPD Population Screener
    (COPD-PS) questionnaire and a handheld spirometric device as a screening tool for patients at high risk of COPD, such as smokers. The study aimed to investigate and pilot the feasibility and application of this combined assessment, which we termed the “VitalQPlus”, as a screening tool for the early detection of COPD, especially in primary care settings.
    Methods: This was a cross-sectional study screening potentially undiagnosed COPD patients using a validated five-item COPD-PS questionnaire together with a handheld spirometric device. Patients were recruited from selected Malaysian government primary care health centers.
    Results: Of the total of 83 final participants, only 24.1% (20/83) were recruited from Perak and Penang (peninsular Malaysia) compared to 75.9% (63/83) from Sabah (Borneo region). Our dual assessment approach identified 8.4% of the surveyed patients as having potentially undiagnosed COPD. When only the Vitalograph COPD-6 screening tool was used, 15.8% of patients were detected with a forced expiratory volume in 1 second/forced expiratory volume in 6 seconds (FEV1/FEV6) ratio at <0.75, while 35.9% of patients were detected with the COPD-PS questionnaire. These findings suggested that this dual assessment approach has a greater chance of identifying potentially undiagnosed COPD patients compared to the Vitalograph COPD-6 or COPD-PS questionnaire when used alone. Our findings show that patients with more symptoms (scores of >=5) yielded twice the percentage of outcomes of FEV1/FEV6 <0.75 compared to patients with fewer COPD symptoms (scores <5).
    Conclusion: With the availability of a simple screening questionnaire and the COPD-6, there is an opportunity easily to make patients more aware of their lung symptoms and to encourage the provision of early treatment. The proposed dual assessment approach, which we termed the VitalQPlus, may play a profound role in the early diagnosis of COPD, which is crucial in improving the clinical management of the disease.
    Keywords: spirometry, pulmonary function test, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease,
    airway obstruction
    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  14. Lim JJ, Salowi MA, Adnan TH, Anuar NA, Ngah NF, Choo MM
    Med J Malaysia, 2021 03;76(2):190-198.
    PMID: 33742627
    INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to compare the visual outcomes of phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation (IOL) surgery in patients with and without diabetes mellitus (DM) in Malaysia over a 12-year period and to identify factors that may contribute to poor visual outcome.

    MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data was retrieved from the webbased Malaysian Cataract Surgery Registry (CSR). Perioperative data for cataract surgery performed from 2007- 2018 were analysed. Inclusion criteria were age ≥40 years, phacoemulsification and IOL and senile cataract. Combined surgeries, surgeries performed by trainees and ocular comorbidities were excluded. Post-operative Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) were compared. Factors affecting poor visual outcomes among those with DM were analysed using multivariate logistic regression to produce adjusted odds ratio (OR) for variables of interest.

    RESULTS: Total number of cases between 2007-2018 was 442,858, of whom 179,210 qualified for our analysis. DM group consisted of 72,087 cases (40.2%). There were 94.5% cases in DM group and 95.0Ź from non-DM group who achieved BCVA ≥6/12 (p<0.001). Among patients with DM, advanced age (70-79 years old, OR: 2.54, 95% Confidence Interva, 95%CI: 1.91, 3.40; 80-89 years old, OR: 5.50, 95%CI: 4.02, 7.51), ≥90 years, OR: 9.77, 95%CI: 4.18, 22.81), poor preoperative presenting visual acuity [<6/18-6/60] (OR: 2.40, 95%CI: 1.84, 3.14) and <6/60-3/60 (OR: 3.00, 95%CI: 2.24, 4.02), <3/60 (OR 3.63, 95%CI: 2.77, 4.74)], presence of intraoperative complication (OR 2.24, 95%CI: 1.86, 2.71) and presence of postoperative complication (OR 5.21, 95%CI: 2.97, 9.16) were significant factors for poor visual outcome.

    CONCLUSIONS: Visual outcomes following phacoemulsification with IOL implantation surgery among cases with DM were poorer compared to cases without DM. Risk factors for poor visual outcomes among cases with DM were identified.

    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  15. Ross J, Jiamsakul A, Kumarasamy N, Azwa I, Merati TP, Do CD, et al.
    HIV Med, 2021 Mar;22(3):201-211.
    PMID: 33151020 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13006
    OBJECTIVES: To assess second-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) virological failure and HIV drug resistance-associated mutations (RAMs), in support of third-line regimen planning in Asia.

    METHODS: Adults > 18 years of age on second-line ART for ≥ 6 months were eligible. Cross-sectional data on HIV viral load (VL) and genotypic resistance testing were collected or testing was conducted between July 2015 and May 2017 at 12 Asia-Pacific sites. Virological failure (VF) was defined as VL > 1000 copies/mL with a second VL > 1000 copies/mL within 3-6 months. FASTA files were submitted to Stanford University HIV Drug Resistance Database and RAMs were compared against the IAS-USA 2019 mutations list. VF risk factors were analysed using logistic regression.

    RESULTS: Of 1378 patients, 74% were male and 70% acquired HIV through heterosexual exposure. At second-line switch, median [interquartile range (IQR)] age was 37 (32-42) years and median (IQR) CD4 count was 103 (43.5-229.5) cells/µL; 93% received regimens with boosted protease inhibitors (PIs). Median duration on second line was 3 years. Among 101 patients (7%) with VF, CD4 count > 200 cells/µL at switch [odds ratio (OR) = 0.36, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.17-0.77 vs. CD4 ≤ 50) and HIV exposure through male-male sex (OR = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.17-0.64 vs. heterosexual) or injecting drug use (OR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.12-0.49) were associated with reduced VF. Of 41 (41%) patients with resistance data, 80% had at least one RAM to nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), 63% to NRTIs, and 35% to PIs. Of those with PI RAMs, 71% had two or more.

    CONCLUSIONS: There were low proportions with VF and significant RAMs in our cohort, reflecting the durability of current second-line regimens.

    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  16. Hakim HM, Khan HO, Hamzah HH, Othman MF, Nelson BR, Chambers GK, et al.
    Data Brief, 2019 Oct;26:104449.
    PMID: 31667222 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2019.104449
    This article provides violent crime data in Malaysia from 2006 to 2017. The violent crimes include murder, rape, gang robbery, robbery and voluntarily causing hurt cases. A total of 330,395 violent crime cases were reported in this 12 year period and the data were tabulated state by state for all thirteen states of Malaysia, including two states in Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak) and one federal territory (Kuala Lumpur). In general, violent crimes show a decreasing trend from 2006 to 2017 in Malaysia. However, armed gang robbery and armed robbery show a fluctuating pattern from 2008 to 2011. A similar pattern was also recorded for unarmed gang robbery from 2008 to 2010. The violent crime data deposited here are available for further analysis, e.g., for identifying risk factors such as demography, lifestyle, socio-economic status, government policies etc. which may be associated with violent crime incidence and pattern across the country.
    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  17. Lee LK, Chen PC, Lee KK, Kaur J
    Ann Acad Med Singap, 2007 Mar;36(3):169-74.
    PMID: 17450261
    INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of violence-related behaviours among adolescents and the factors associated with it.

    MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional school survey conducted on 4500 adolescent students, using a structured questionnaire. Data were collected using the supervised self-administered questionnaire [a modified version of the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance in the Malaysian National Language (Bahasa Malaysia)].

    RESULTS: Our study showed that 27.9% of students had been involved in a physical fight, 6.6% had been injured in a fight, 5.9% had carried a weapon, 7.2% had felt unsafe, 18.5% had had their money stolen and 55.0% had had their property stolen. Adolescents who carried weapons to school, smoked, used drugs, felt sad or hopeless and played truant were more likely to be involved in physical fights after adjusting for age, sex, and ethnicity.

    CONCLUSION: Violence-related behaviours among adolescents, especially involvement in physical fights, are common and are positively associated with certain factors such as smoking, taking drugs, playing truant, feeling sad or hopeless. Interventions designed at targeting adolescent violence should also address these factors and target the high-risk groups. There may be a need to identify and provide services for adolescents who exhibit these factors.

    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  18. Appalasamy JR, Joseph JP, Seeta Ramaiah S, Md Zain AZ, Quek KF, Tha KK
    JMIR Aging, 2020 Jul 10;3(2):e17182.
    PMID: 32469839 DOI: 10.2196/17182
    BACKGROUND: A large number of stroke survivors worldwide suffer from moderate to severe disability. In Malaysia, long-term uncontrolled stroke risk factors lead to unforeseen rates of recurrent stroke and a growing incidence of stroke occurrence across ages, predominantly among the elderly population. This situation has motivated research efforts focused on tapping into patient education, especially related to patient self-efficacy of understanding and taking medication appropriately. Video narratives integrated with health belief model constructs have demonstrated potential impacts as an aide to patient education efforts.

    OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility and acceptability of study procedures based on a randomized controlled trial protocol of a video narratives intervention among poststroke patients. We also aimed to obtain preliminary findings of video narratives related to medication understanding and use self-efficacy (MUSE) and blood pressure control.

    METHODS: A parallel group randomized controlled trial including a control group (without video viewing) and an intervention group (with video viewing) was conducted by researchers at a neurology outpatient clinic on poststroke patients (N=54). Baseline data included patients' sociodemographic characteristics, medical information, and all outcome measures. Measurements of MUSE and blood pressure following the trial were taken during a 3-month follow-up period. Feasibility of the trial was assessed based on recruitment and study completion rates along with patients' feedback on the burden of the study procedures and outcome measures. Acceptability of the trial was analyzed qualitatively. Statistical analysis was applied to ascertain the preliminary results of video narratives.

    RESULTS: The recruitment rate was 60 out of 117 patients (51.3%). Nevertheless, the dropout rate of 10% was within the acceptable range. Patients were aged between 21 and 74 years. Nearly 50 of the patients (>85%) had adequate health literacy and exposure to stroke education. Most of the patients (>80%) were diagnosed with ischemic stroke, whereby the majority had primary hypertension. The technicalities of randomization and patient approach were carried out with minimal challenge and adequate patient satisfaction. The video contents received good responses with respect to comprehension and simplicity. Moreover, an in-depth phone interview with 8 patients indicated that the video narratives were considered to be useful and inspiring. These findings paralleled the preliminary findings of significant improvement within groups in MUSE (P=.001) and systolic blood pressure control (P=.04).

    CONCLUSIONS: The queries and feedback from each phase in this study have been acknowledged and will be taken forward in the full trial.

    TRIAL REGISTRATION: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN 12618000174280; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=373554.

    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  19. Choo WY, Dunne MP, Marret MJ, Fleming M, Wong YL
    J Adolesc Health, 2011 Dec;49(6):627-34.
    PMID: 22098774 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2011.04.020
    There has been little community-based research regarding multiple-type victimization experiences of young people in Asia, and none in Malaysia. This study aimed to estimate prevalence, explore gender differences, as well as describe typical perpetrators and family and social risk factors among Malaysian adolescents.
    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
  20. Chye JK, Lim CT
    Singapore Med J, 1999 Sep;40(9):565-70.
    PMID: 10628243
    To determine the survival rates and risk factors associated with mortality in premature very low birth weight or VLBW (< or = 1500 grams) infants.
    Matched MeSH terms: Risk Factors
Filters
Contact Us

Please provide feedback to Administrator (afdal@afpm.org.my)

External Links