Asia Pac J Public Health
· 2025 May · PMID 40366126
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This study investigated the association between periodontal disease and systemic health indicators in Korean adults, based on the hypothesis that shared inflammatory pathways may underlie the link between oral and system...This study investigated the association between periodontal disease and systemic health indicators in Korean adults, based on the hypothesis that shared inflammatory pathways may underlie the link between oral and systemic health. Although numerous studies have investigated the association between periodontal disease and systemic health, few have utilized nationally representative data from Korean adults. This study used data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, including 1324 participants aged ≥40 years. Systemic health indicators were obtained through physical measurements and biochemical tests. Periodontal disease was evaluated using the Community Periodontal Index, and associations were examined using logistic regression analysis. The weighted prevalence of periodontal disease was 48.3% in men and 38.1% in women. Among men, fasting blood glucose (OR = 1.20) and glycated hemoglobin (OR = 1.32) were significantly associated with periodontal disease. In women, fasting blood glucose (OR = 1.15) and glycated hemoglobin (OR = 1.21) also showed significant associations. Glucose-related indicators demonstrated the most consistent associations across sexes. These findings highlight the association between glycemic control and periodontal disease, and suggest that sex-specific patterns may exist, which could be explored in future research.
Asia Pac J Public Health
· 2025 May · PMID 40357577
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Sexual and reproductive health education in early childhood is still not delivered comprehensively. A pre-experimental study aimed to test the effectiveness of an activity and sound book, "Finally, I Know!" in early chil...Sexual and reproductive health education in early childhood is still not delivered comprehensively. A pre-experimental study aimed to test the effectiveness of an activity and sound book, "Finally, I Know!" in early childhood knowledge before and after two months of intervention. The study involved 63 purposively sample students aged four to six years from UM Laboratory Kindergarten. The book material contains eight key points adapted from UNESCO International Technical Guidance on Sexuality Education. Generalized linear model was used to analyze pre-test, post-test 1, and post-test 2. There was a significant increase in student's knowledge in pre-test and post-test 1 intervention (0.020; < .05), however, no knowledge increase from pre-test and post-test 2 intervention (0.740; > .05). The "Finally I Know!"may have the potential as comprehensive sexuality education media. It is suggested the book should be used regularly over a period of less than two months to ensure that children's knowledge continues to improve.
Asia Pac J Public Health
· 2025 May · PMID 40346790
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This article looked into the memorial lecture delivered by Professor Dr Wah Yun Low in memory of the late Professor Walter K. Patrick, focusing on building resilience within families and communities in the aftermath of C...This article looked into the memorial lecture delivered by Professor Dr Wah Yun Low in memory of the late Professor Walter K. Patrick, focusing on building resilience within families and communities in the aftermath of COVID-19. This article examined resilience across sociocultural contexts, using case studies to highlight adaptation, psychological flexibility, and coping strategies post-adversity among families and communities. It explored resilience's theoretical and real-world aspects, emphasizing interdisciplinary perspectives, practical applications, sociocultural contexts, and policy implications. This article emphasized themes of unity, strength in adversity, and intergenerational resilience. It highlighted the importance of interventions in three key areas-well-being, mental health, and social capital across different life stages, from childhood to adulthood. Resilience-building requires integrating individual, family, and community strategies, fostering collaboration across sectors, and focusing on long-term sustainability. Investing in resilience strengthens immediate crisis responses and lays a foundation for thriving, adaptable communities in future challenges.
Asia Pac J Public Health
· 2025 May · PMID 40337915
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Child stunting in Indonesia remains a major public health issue, affecting physical and cognitive development. This study examined the impact of maternal factors (sociodemographic characteristics and pregnancy history) a...Child stunting in Indonesia remains a major public health issue, affecting physical and cognitive development. This study examined the impact of maternal factors (sociodemographic characteristics and pregnancy history) and breastfeeding practices on stunting in children aged 6 to 23 months, using data from the 2022 Indonesian Nutritional Status Survey (SSGI) of 87 722 children. Chi-square tests were employed to examine relationships between the study variables and child stunting. Multinomial logistic regression was then used to assess the associations. Key findings highlighted the importance of maternal education, adequate antenatal care, and the prevention of low birth weight in addressing child stunting. Children of mothers with no education had a 50% and 26.4% higher risk of severe and moderate stunting, respectively, than those with tertiary education. Lack of antenatal care was associated with an 82.8% and 16.0% higher risk of severe and moderate stunting, respectively, compared to those with four or more visits. Low birth weight significantly increased the odds of severe and moderate stunting by 242.3% and 125.9%, respectively. Breastfeeding practices, such as early initiation, showed no significant link to stunting. These findings emphasize the need for targeted maternal health interventions to reduce stunting, particularly by improving education, antenatal care, and birth outcomes.
Asia Pac J Public Health
· 2025 May · PMID 40251867
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Poor dietary intake during young adulthood can increase the risk of chronic diseases, which are rising concerns in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This scoping review examined dietary intake among young adults...Poor dietary intake during young adulthood can increase the risk of chronic diseases, which are rising concerns in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This scoping review examined dietary intake among young adults in LMICs, highlighting their energy and nutrient intakes. Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and EBSCOhost databases were searched to identify observational studies published in English from January 1, 2014 to July 31, 2024. Rayyan.ai was used to remove duplicates and facilitate the selection process, which two researchers independently carried out. Studies that reported on the energy and nutrient intake of healthy young adults aged 18 to 30 years in LMICs were included. A total of 14 studies were included (nine from upper-middle-income countries, five from lower-middle-income countries, zero from low-income countries). Most of the studies are cross-sectional studies (71.4%). The energy intake of young adults from upper-middle-income countries ranges from 1700 to 2400 kcal/day, while young adult women in lower-middle-income countries showed trends of low-energy intake and insufficient micronutrient intake. Most of the energy intake reported came from carbohydrates, followed by fat and protein. The findings highlighted a significant gap in data from low-income countries, underscoring the need for further research to inform policies and design effective interventions.
Abas MZ, Li K, Choo WY
… +2 more, Wan KS, Hairi NN
Asia Pac J Public Health
· 2025 May · PMID 40251861
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This study aimed to develop machine learning (ML) models to predict diabetic complications in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Malaysia. Data from the Malaysian National Diabetes Registry and Death Register were us...This study aimed to develop machine learning (ML) models to predict diabetic complications in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Malaysia. Data from the Malaysian National Diabetes Registry and Death Register were used to develop predictive models for five complications: all-cause mortality, retinopathy, nephropathy, ischemic heart disease (IHD), and cerebrovascular disease (CeVD). Accurate predictions may enable targeted preventive intervention and optimal disease management. The cohort comprised 90 933 T2D patients treated at public health clinics in southern Malaysia from 2011 to 2021. Seven ML algorithms were tested, with the Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LGBM) demonstrating the best performance. LGBM models achieved ROC-AUC scores of 0.84 for all-cause mortality, 0.71 for retinopathy, 0.71 for nephropathy, 0.66 for IHD, and 0.74 for CeVD. These findings support integrating ML models, particularly LGBM, into clinical practice for predicting diabetes complications. Further optimization and validation are necessary to enhance applicability across diverse populations.
Abdul Raheem R, Huda A, Shamah F
… +11 more, Murushidha M, Mohamed N, Ahmed IN, Rafeeg N, Aroosha A, Jamal S, Nazeem A, Rasheed T, Taneja S, George B, Macom J
Asia Pac J Public Health
· 2025 May · PMID 40243230
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Drawing on previous research, this study aimed to assess the impact of COVID-19 vaccines on the Delta variant within the context of the Maldives. Using a retrospective design, the study analyzed comprehensive COVID-19 ca...Drawing on previous research, this study aimed to assess the impact of COVID-19 vaccines on the Delta variant within the context of the Maldives. Using a retrospective design, the study analyzed comprehensive COVID-19 case data from multiple sources, including the Health Protection Agency (HPA), covering the initial reported cases until the end of December 2021. Notably, the data revealed a surge in Delta variant cases three months after administering the first vaccine dose to more than two-thirds of the population, suggesting a single dose was insufficient against Delta variant. However, following the administration of the second dose and additional restrictions, a gradual decline in COVID-19 cases was observed. These findings underscore the importance of implementing the World Health Organization (WHO)-recommended preventive measures in conjunction with vaccination, particularly when cases begin to rise, as supported by studies from other countries.
Chen YT, Li YL, Wu CY
… +2 more, Chen LY, Chiou HY
Asia Pac J Public Health
· 2025 May · PMID 40156365
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This time-stratified case-crossover study evaluated the association between short-term exposure to ambient air pollution and psoriasis. A total of 107 462 psoriasis cases between 2002 and 2016 were retrieved from Taiwan'...This time-stratified case-crossover study evaluated the association between short-term exposure to ambient air pollution and psoriasis. A total of 107 462 psoriasis cases between 2002 and 2016 were retrieved from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate the association between air pollutants (O, CO, NO, SO, PM, and PM) and psoriasis with each interquartile range (IQR) increase. Consistent associations for psoriasis for each IQR increase in NO and CO exposure were noted at lag 0 both in single-pollutant and multiple-pollutant model. Exposure on lag 0 had the highest odds ratio (OR), decreasing consecutively from lag 1 to lag 3. Both NO and CO had a stronger influence among men, older patients (>60 years old), and patients with chronic disease. Short-term NO and CO exposure was associated with psoriasis. This link might provide insights into how air pollution, at least in part, affects the epidemiology and pathogenesis of psoriasis.
Luo Y, Wang F, Zeng X
… +5 more, Tan S, Xiang L, Pang S, Guo X, Mao X
Asia Pac J Public Health
· 2025 Jul · PMID 40130605
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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) imposes a heavy disease burden on China. The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence of COPD in adults aged 40 years and older in China through a systematic review an...Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) imposes a heavy disease burden on China. The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence of COPD in adults aged 40 years and older in China through a systematic review and meta-analysis. A web-based search of 11 databases (including PubMed and Web of Science) from January 2014 to September 2024, using specified search/MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) terms and keywords, was conducted. A total of 92 studies (39 320 patients) were included. The combined prevalence of COPD in Chinese adults aged 40 years and older from 2014 to 2024 was 12.1%. Subgroup analysis showed that the prevalence was higher in males 16.4% than in females 8.4%. The lowest prevalence was 4.8% in the age group of 40 to 49 years and 23.7% in the age group of over 70 years. The prevalence was highest in patients with a BMI of less than 18.5 kg/m (22.4%) and decreased with increasing BMI. The prevalence was highest in Northwestern China (13.9%) and lowest in Southern China (9.2%), and was higher in rural residents (13.7%) than urban residents (11.1%). The prevalence was higher among current smokers (18.7%) and former smokers (18.7%) than among non-smokers (7.9%).
Azalee M, Othman S, Wan Yuen C
… +2 more, Che Ha N, Mohd Zain N
Asia Pac J Public Health
· 2025 May · PMID 40116416
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Intimate partner violence (IPV) can affect individuals across various professions, including health care workers (HCWs). Therefore, this qualitative study aimed to explore the coping strategies of HCWs experiencing IPV i...Intimate partner violence (IPV) can affect individuals across various professions, including health care workers (HCWs). Therefore, this qualitative study aimed to explore the coping strategies of HCWs experiencing IPV in Malaysia, providing insights to inform workplace support mechanisms. In-depth interviews were conducted among six HCWs in a tertiary hospital who were also the survivors of IPV. The findings revealed that the survivors employed diverse coping strategies, including seeking help, inclining toward spirituality, avoiding abusive situations, engaging in self-harm, and staying or leaving abusive relationships. Survivors primarily relied on coworkers for support and only sought formal support assistance when situations became critical. While some supportive workplace responses were reported, some hesitated to seek help due to misconceptions about IPV, concerns about privacy, and fear of workplace gossip. To address these barriers, workplaces should make efforts to raise IPV awareness among employees and implement dedicated support policies tailored to the IPV survivors' coping needs.
Deng Q, Yin J, Peng J
… +9 more, Yeerkenaili Z, Li X, Wang Z, Quzong D, Ding X, Xia J, Wang Y, Zhao X, Zhou J
Asia Pac J Public Health
· 2025 May · PMID 40099614
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Previous studies speculated that physical activity (PA) at high altitude represents greater actual exercise than when performed at lower altitude. Efforts are needed to validate or reject such speculation. This study exp...Previous studies speculated that physical activity (PA) at high altitude represents greater actual exercise than when performed at lower altitude. Efforts are needed to validate or reject such speculation. This study explored the relationships between PA changes and weight/body mass index changes in low and high altitudes. According to a previous study and the altitude distribution of our participants, we classified the participants into low altitude (<2500 m) and high altitude (≥2500 m). The relationships between changes in PA and weight/body mass index were assessed through multivariable linear regression. Furthermore, the stratified analyses were conducted to detect whether there was heterogeneity in relationships between PA changes and weight/body mass index changes across low altitude and high altitude. A total of 10 000 individuals were included (9122 in low altitude, 878 in high altitude). PA increases, per MET-h/d, were inversely associated with weight changes in low altitude with a mean change of -0.009 kg (95% CI [-0.015, -0.002] kg), and in high altitude with a mean change of -0.032 kg (95% CI [-0.056, -0.009] kg). The inverse relationship between changes in PA and weight was significantly modified by altitude ( = .016), and it was stronger among participants residing at high altitude. It suggests that future guidelines and interventions should differentiate populations in low and high altitudes. Specifically, PA recommendations for people living at high altitude should be lower than those for people living at low altitude.
Asia Pac J Public Health
· 2025 Mar · PMID 40071625
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This study investigated the association between insurance status and postoperative mortality using South Korean national data. The data included 540 422 patients aged 20 to 64 treated at 958 facilities. To calculate odds...This study investigated the association between insurance status and postoperative mortality using South Korean national data. The data included 540 422 patients aged 20 to 64 treated at 958 facilities. To calculate odds ratios (ORs) for in-hospital and 30-day mortality post-admission, generalized estimating equation (GEE) logistic regression was used. Significantly lower ORs for in-hospital mortality (0.55) and 30-day mortality post-admission (0.59) were found among subscribers with "employee insured" status than among those who were self-employed or Medical Aid beneficiaries. Significantly higher ORs for in-hospital mortality (1.45) and 30-day mortality post-admission (1.46) were observed among those with a <25% premium than in those with a ≥75% premium. The risk of both in-hospital and 30-day post-admission mortality consistently increased with declining socioeconomic status, confirming the presence of inequality.
Kamimoto T, Kawakami M, Matsunaga H
… +2 more, Kondo K, Tsuji T
Asia Pac J Public Health
· 2025 Mar · PMID 40071614
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In 2020, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic altered lifestyles dramatically. We previously reported that the physical function of walk-in rehabilitation users in Japan worsened after the state of emergency...In 2020, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic altered lifestyles dramatically. We previously reported that the physical function of walk-in rehabilitation users in Japan worsened after the state of emergency declaration and continued to worsen until the end of 2020. However, whether physical function continued to worsen during the prolonged pandemic period remains unclear. This study aimed to characterize the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on community-dwelling people with disabilities. Data measured every 3 to 6 months from January 2018 to December 2022 were examined retrospectively for patients who started using day care services by July 2018 and continued until July 2022. Every 6 months was considered one period. Mixed-effects model repeated measures (MMRMs) were performed, including missing measurements for 10 periods from the first half of 2018 to the second half of 2022, and each period was tested for multiple comparisons. The MMRM showed that both walking speed ( < .001) and Timed Up and Go (TUG) scores ( < .001) changed from period to period. Walking speed and TUG scores worsened after 2020 and continued to worsen thereafter. Thus, the impact of lifestyle changes associated with the pandemic on community-dwelling people with disabilities was not transitory.
Poon E, Donald M, van Driel M
… +4 more, Pache D, Hollingworth S, Dolja-Gore X, McGuire T
Asia Pac J Public Health
· 2025 Mar · PMID 40070218
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Antidepressant use is common in women. However, characteristics associated with duration of use remain unclear. We conducted a descriptive study using data from the 1973-1978 and 1946-1951 birth cohorts of the Australian...Antidepressant use is common in women. However, characteristics associated with duration of use remain unclear. We conducted a descriptive study using data from the 1973-1978 and 1946-1951 birth cohorts of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health linked to antidepressant dispensing records from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, July 2012 to December 2019 to examine use patterns and their associated characteristics. Early discontinuation and prolonged antidepressant use were common, a significant deviation from current guideline recommendations. There were 5553 episodes of antidepressant use in 4416 women, with a mean estimated duration of first-time use of 664 days. One in four women had only one prescription filled, while 32% continued treatment beyond two years, with 14% continuing use at five years. Age and previous antidepressant use impacted duration of use, with a shorter average duration of use and a higher proportion of discontinuation for each subsequent episode after the first prescription.
Atiya N, Hasan MS, Wong CK
… +7 more, Abdullah A, Lau KS, Cheah EG, Zikry Y, Ngu YX, Teo YP, Lim KK
Asia Pac J Public Health
· 2025 Mar · PMID 40017331
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There are limited data on pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission despite its high mortality rate. The objectives of our study were to determine the prevalence of culture-confirmed PTB...There are limited data on pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission despite its high mortality rate. The objectives of our study were to determine the prevalence of culture-confirmed PTB requiring ICU admission and the trend in prevalence before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. A retrospective cohort study was conducted on all patients aged ≥18 years with culture-confirmed PTB requiring ICU admission in a Malaysian tertiary academic medical center from 2015 to 2021. The linear-by-linear association test was performed to determine if the trend in prevalence was significant. The overall prevalence of culture-confirmed PTB requiring ICU admission was 8.0% (139/1736). Between 2015 and 2021, the prevalence increased by 5.8% from 1.6% (5/312) to 7.4% (16/215). This study demonstrated an overall low but increasing trend in the prevalence of culture-confirmed PTB requiring ICU admission. Disruption in TB services during the COVID-19 pandemic may have impacted the prevalence trend.
Cumming RG, Dorj G, Yiengprugsawan VS
… +4 more, Dracakis JG, Lkhagvaa U, Naidoo N, Kowal P
Asia Pac J Public Health
· 2025 Mar · PMID 40012251
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The objectives of this survey were to describe the health of older Mongolians and compare those living in rural areas, urban apartment areas, and urban ger areas in the capital, Ulaanbaatar. A population-based random sam...The objectives of this survey were to describe the health of older Mongolians and compare those living in rural areas, urban apartment areas, and urban ger areas in the capital, Ulaanbaatar. A population-based random sample survey of 975 people aged 60 years and older was conducted in 2017 to 2018. Data were collected using methods of the World Health Organization's Study on global AGEing and adult health. The most common chronic self-reported health conditions were hypertension (65%), arthritis (40%), and angina (23%). Most (80%) reported they were satisfied with life and the mean World Health Organization Quality of Life score on a scale of 0 to 100 was 70.6, which is relatively high. There was a higher prevalence of activities of daily living (ADLs) disability in rural areas, with 17% reporting severe difficulty with at least one ADL. High levels of disability in rural areas suggest the need for improved health and social services, including housing, for older people living outside Ulaanbaatar.
Asia Pac J Public Health
· 2025 Mar · PMID 39963810
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This study aimed to analyze the estimated suicide trends among males in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries from year 2000 to 2019 and their relationship with unemployment rates. Age-standardized...This study aimed to analyze the estimated suicide trends among males in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries from year 2000 to 2019 and their relationship with unemployment rates. Age-standardized suicide rate and unemployment data of 10 ASEAN countries (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam) were analyzed using Joinpoint regression. Results showed that ASEAN countries (except the Philippines and Myanmar) recorded an increase or a plateau in the decline of age-standardized suicide rates in males during the second half of the 2010s. This was in contrast with global trends for males, which has been steadily decreasing. Unemployment was significantly associated with suicide rates. Our study found generally increasing or plateauing suicide trends in ASEAN countries between years 2013 and 2017. However, limitations in data quality highlight the importance of improved suicide surveillance to effectively support prevention efforts.
Rai NB, Penjor K, Gurung AB
… +4 more, Samdrup T, Dargay Y, Samzang S, Wangdi K
Asia Pac J Public Health
· 2025 Mar · PMID 39945083
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Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the major public health issues in Bhutan. This study aimed to evaluate epidemiology of TB and predictors of poor treatment outcomes in Sarpang District, Bhutan. A retrospective cohort study wa...Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the major public health issues in Bhutan. This study aimed to evaluate epidemiology of TB and predictors of poor treatment outcomes in Sarpang District, Bhutan. A retrospective cohort study was conducted using TB case-based surveillance data of Sarpang District from 2005 to 2021. The outcome of interest was poor treatment outcome. The potential predictors were analyzed using logistic regression. A total of 1704 TB cases were analyzed in this study. The poor outcome in this study was 6.6% with 2.6% deaths due to TB. The patients older than 65 years (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 3.58) and sputum non-conversion in the second month with acid-fast bacilli results of scanty (AOR = 3.08), 1+ (AOR = 7.12), and 2+ (AOR = 21.05) were the significant predictors of poor treatment outcome. Therefore, older age and sputum non-conversion in the second month should be given priority.