Revista Contexto & Saúde is a publication of the Stricto-Sensu Graduate Program in Comprehensive Health Care at the Regional University of Northwestern Rio Grande do Sul (UNIJUÍ) and Unijuí Publisher. The Journal was created in 2001. All its articles are available in online format. The Journal aims to disseminate technical-scientific production on topics related to the Health Sciences area. The scope of the journal covers the dissemination of research results that contemplate advances in the health-disease-care process and in the knowledge and applicability of new chemical and biological processes in health. In this journal, it is understood that the publication of studies with epidemiological, care, and educational aspects in health, both experimental and applied, is a way to support and qualify health care in an interdisciplinary manner. ISSN: 2176-7114
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Use of anxiolytics and antidepressants among graduate students in brazil during the covid-19 pandemic
Investigate the use of anxiolytics/antidepressants by graduate students in Brazil during the COVID-19 pandemic. An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted involving 2225 graduate students. For such, three questionnaires were made available on the SurveyMonkey® platform: one addressing sociodemographic characteristics, a questionnaire addressing aspects related to the course and the self-perceived impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on education, and the Brazilian version of the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), which was employed to measure psychological suffering. Data analysis was performed with the aid of the R software, version 4.3.2, and involved Poisson regression analysis with robust variance (α = 5%), with the estimation of prevalence ratios (PR) and respective 95% confidence intervals (CI). The prevalence of anxiolytic/antidepressant use was 24.0%. The use of these medications was significantly associated with age (PR = 1.03; 95% CI: 1.02 - 1.04), a higher psychological suffering score (PR = 1.01; 95% CI: 1.01 - 1.01), being under psychological/psychiatric care (PR = 6.09; 95% CI: 4.58 – 8.10), being unemployed (PR = 1.22; 95% CI: 1.05 - 1.43), residing in the South and Midwest regions of Brazil (PR = 1.29; 95% CI: 1.01 - 1.64) and being a student of the human sciences (PR = 1.26; 95% CI: 1.04 - 1.53). It is concluded that age, psychological suffering, being under psychological/psychiatric care, being unemployed, residing in the South and Midwest regions of Brazil and being a student of the human sciences exerted an influence on the use of anxiolytics/antidepressantsCOVID-19 pandemic.
Copyright (c) 2026 João Vitor da Silva Carvalho, José Lima Silva Júnior, Rafael Domingos Almeida Durand Gomes, Myrelle Leal Campos Sousa, Luiza Jordania Serafim de Araújo, Veruska Medeiros Martins Bernardino, Ramon Targino Firmino, Matheus de França Perazzo, Saul Martins Paiva, Ana Flávia Granville-Garcia http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Predictive factors for HIV infection among young people: Model-based analysis Weight of evidence
Introduction: The youth population is increasingly susceptible to HIV infection. Understanding the factors predicting infection can help address gaps in public health policies aimed at young people. Objective: To identify predictive factors for HIV infection among young people using the Weight of Evidence (WoE) model. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 200 young people aged 15 to 24 at a Testing and Counseling Center in a large municipality in the state of Paraíba, between February and June 2021. Rapid HIV testing was performed, and the Socio-structural and Behavioral Assessment instrument (ASECOMP-HIV) was administered. The WoE model was used to identify the influence of predictive factors on the serological outcome. Results: The HIV test positivity rate was 2% (4 cases). Analyses revealed significant associations regarding the variables: sex (p=0.036), sexual orientation (p=0.012), living arrangements (p=0.024), sex in exchange for benefits (p=0.019), discrimination based on sexual orientation (p=0.007), perceived risk of HIV acquisition (p=0.048), non-vaginal sex (p=0.002), and having a relationship with an HIV-positive person (p=0.019). Conclusion: Coping with HIV infection among young people requires recognition of its complex and multifactorial nature, requiring an integrated analysis of the sociodemographic, behavioral and, above all, structural factors that condition the vulnerability of this population.
Copyright (c) 2026 Renata Olívia Gadelha Romero, Rodrigo Pinheiro Fernandes de Queiroga, João Agnaldo do Nascimento, Ana Cristina de Oliveira e Silva , Juliana Kelly Batista da Silva, Oriana Deyze Correia Paiva Leadebal, Jordana de Almeida Nogueira http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Comprehensive review of spatial and spatio-temporal analysis technologies for syphilis as a potential tool for public health actions
Objective: To summarize the types of spatial and spatiotemporal analysis technologies used to study syphilis in the context of public health. Methods: This is an integrative literature review that used the PICo strategy to formulate the guiding question: Which scientific studies use spatial and/or spatiotemporal analysis technologies to examine the distribution of syphilis cases? Searches were conducted in the information sources PubMed®, SCOPUS, and Web of Science, as well as in the Virtual Health Library (VHL) on January 16, 2024, using Boolean operators combined with the following keywords: “Syphilis,” “Spatial analysis,” “Spatio-Temporal Analysis,” “Public Health.” The selection was performed using the Systematic Review Support (AReS) software, and studies were included regardless of language or time period, provided they employed an ecological study design. Results: Sixteen articles published since 2010 were analyzed. All used secondary data with an ecological design. Data analysis techniques included area analysis, Bayesian analysis, global and local Moran’s I, sweep statistics, the Prais-Winsten model, and kernel density estimation, with a focus on incidence and prevalence rates, particularly in Brazil. Conclusion: It became evident in the studies that syphilis is not limited to the occurrence of cases alone but is also related to socio-spatial factors that influence its occurrence in time and space, such as socioeconomic inequalities, social vulnerabilities, and access to health services.
Copyright (c) 2026 Giovana Cristina Chirinéa Donida, Janiel Conceição da Silva, Monika Wernet, Raquel Gardini Sanches Palasio, Mellina Yamamura http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Muscle dysmorphia and mediating variables in physically active brazilian men
To assess whether muscularity dissatisfaction is a significant mediator between appearance ideal internalization and muscle dysmorphia symptoms in physically active Brazilian men. This is a cross-sectional study, which included 915 physically active Brazilian men aged 18 to 35, of any color, race, or ethnicity. Through an online survey, participants responded to a sociodemographic questionnaire, as well as measures to assess symptoms of muscle dysmorphia (Muscle Dysmorphic Disorder Inventory), appearance ideal internalization (Sociocultural Attitudes Toward Appearance Questionnaire-4), and muscularity dissatisfaction (Male Body Attitudes Scale - Revised). The correlation between variables was evaluated using Spearman’s correlation coefficient (rho), and a simple mediation analysis with bootstrapping of 5,000 resamples was conducted. Muscle dysmorphia symptoms showed a significant, positive correlation of moderate magnitude with appearance ideal internalization and a large magnitude with muscularity dissatisfaction. Muscularity dissatisfaction partially mediated (~50%) the relationship between appearance ideal internalization and muscle dysmorphia symptoms. Therefore, muscularity dissatisfaction represents an important mediator between appearance ideal internalization and muscle dysmorphia symptoms in physically active Brazilian men. These findings underscore the importance of interventions aimed at both reducing the appearance ideal internalization and addressing body dissatisfaction, thereby contributing to the prevention and treatment of muscle dysmorphia in this population.
Copyright (c) 2026 Marcos Vinicius Guilherme Santos, Maurício Almeida, Tassiana Aparecida Hudson http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Overweight and obesity in the state of Goiás, Brazil: Aspects related to Primary Health Care
Objective: To evaluate the infrastructure and organization of care provided to individuals with overweight and obesity (O/O) in Primary Health Care (PHC) in small, medium, and large municipalities in the state of Goiás. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with professionals from 330 health units in Goiás, using an electronic questionnaire. A descriptive analysis was performed, and differences between municipalities were analyzed using the chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests, with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons. Results: Less than 41% of health units have basic infrastructure items, and only 52.4% conduct territorial mapping. The most common organizational strategies were referral protocols and risk stratification; however, less than 35% of professionals use Food and Nutrition Surveillance tools, indicating low integration of these practices into the work process. Small municipalities presented better structural conditions and greater community integration; medium-sized municipalities showed weaknesses in mapping and care organization; and large municipalities exhibited the most deficiencies, especially in infrastructure, problem-solving capacity, and data recording. Conclusion: PHC in Goiás presents significant limitations in infrastructure and care organization for the management of overweight and obesity, with poorer performance in large municipalities.
Copyright (c) 2026 Karine Alves Mariani, Jacqueline Gomes Ravange, Bibiana Arantes Moraes, Karine Anusca Martins , Maria do Rosário Gondim Peixoto, Lara Lívia Santos da Silva http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Prevention of risk behaviors among adolescents in the family context: An integrative review
The aim of this study is to present an analysis of current scientific evidence on preventive factors for risk behaviors among adolescents in the family context. This is an integrative review of national and international literature, including articles published between 2012 and 2025. The guiding research question was: “What is the recent scientific evidence on the role of the family context as a protective factor against risk behaviors in adolescence?” Data collection was initially conducted in September 2022 and updated in December 2025 in the PubMed, Scopus, SciELO, ScienceDirect, and LILACS databases, resulting in a final sample of 29 articles. The presentation and discussion of the findings were organized into three analytical thematic categories, synthesizing the main protective factors. The findings showed that family cohesion with protective emotional bonds and supported autonomy, dialogic and expressive family communication, and parental monitoring with consistent parenting practices and legitimate authority are fundamental aspects for the prevention of risk behaviors in adolescence. In light of these findings, the expansion of intervention studies in the school context is recommended to promote adolescents’ protagonism and foster the inclusion of families in health-related processes.
Mariana Boulitreau Siqueira Campos Barros
Copyright (c) 2026 Amanda dos Santos Braga, Estela Maria Leite Meirelles Monteiro, Mariana Boulitreau Siqueira Campos Barros, Weslla Karla Albuquerque Silva de Paula, Débora Maria Santana da Silva http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Prevalence and factors associated with the outcome of gestational syphilis
Objective: To estimate the prevalence and factors associated with gestational syphilis. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was carried out in two maternity hospitals of a municipality of Rio Grande do Sul, including 2,292 new mothers from January 1 to December 31, 2019, with analysis adjusted by means of Poisson regression, using a hierarchical three-level model. contemplating demographic, socioeconomic, reproductive and gestational variables. Results: A prevalence of gestational syphilis of 5.8% (n=132) was observed. In the adjusted analysis, the occurrence of syphilis during pregnancy showed a statistically significant association with maternal age (p 0.001; 95%CI: 1.10-2.99), living with a partner (p 0.001; 95%CI: 1.50-3.14) and maternal schooling (p 0.001; 95%CI: 2.01-11.46). Conclusion: The study identified a high occurrence of syphilis in pregnancy in the municipality, influenced by sociodemographic factors, especially maternal age, absence of partner and low education. These findings highlight the need for public health strategies aimed at reducing social inequalities, strengthening prenatal care and expanding access to diagnosis and treatment, aiming at the prevention of gestational syphilis.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sabrina Silveira Leite, Fabine Santos Karam, Juraci Almeida Cesar, Patrícia Martinez Echevenguá, Sibele Schaun, Fernanda Duarte Avila, Carla Vitola Gonçalves http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessment of thromboembolic risk in patients with gynecological cancer in a hospital in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
Introduction: Among acute cardiovascular diseases, venous thromboembolism is one of the most common complications in patients with gynecological cancer, due to prothrombotic state and exposure to vasculotoxic therapies. Objective: To evaluate the thromboembolic risk and the profile of anticoagulant use for prevention or treatment of VTE in patients with gynecological cancer, followed up in a specialized hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out at the Hospital da Mulher, located in Salvador, Bahia in 1 year, consisting of analysis of medical records to track the profile of use and application of the Khorana, PROTECHT and Onkotev scores. Results: The electronic medical records of a population of 2,865 women were evaluated, and 117 patients were selected, with a mean age of 57.20 years. Malignant neoplasm of the cervix (42.74%) was the most frequent. The ROC curve determined that Onkotev score presented a better performance predictive of thromboembolic risk (AUC = 0.742; p = 0.000; CI-95: 0.651-0.833) in this sample than the Khorana (AUC = 0.567; p = 0.208; CI-95: 0.463-0.671) and PROTECHT (AUC = 0.517, p = 0.730, CI-95: 0.413-0.624) scores. Conclusion: This study is one of the first in Bahia to investigate the profile of anticoagulant use in this group. Onkotev presented itself as the one with the best performance among the others, however, its predictive accuracy remains limited, since it would be able to predict approximately 75% of the VTE cases that occurred. Further studies are needed to evaluate this topic.
Maria Teresita Del Niño Jesus Fernandez Bendicho
Copyright (c) 2026 Marlane Marna Santos e Santos, Rosa Malena Fagundes Xavier, Maria Teresita Del Niño Jesus Fernandez Bendicho http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Neuroprotective effect of aqueous yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) extract in a parkinson’s disease in vitro model
Parkinson’s disease (PD) remains an incurable condition, and strategies to mitigate oxidative stress and neurodegeneration have been widely investigated, including the use of plant-derived extracts and infusions rich in bioactive compounds, such as yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis). Based on this premise, the present study evaluated the effects of an aqueous yerba mate extract in an in vitro model of PD. Differentiated SH-SY5Y cells exhibiting a neuronal phenotype were exposed to increasing concentrations of rotenone (5, 10, 40, and 100 µM), and the concentration that induced cytotoxicity after 24 h while maintaining 80–85% cell viability relative to the control was selected. Neuronal cultures were supplemented with aqueous yerba mate extract (0, 1, 5, 10, 20, and 100 µg/mL). The extract was characterized by the presence of alkaloids (caffeine and theobromine), tannins, and polyphenolic compounds. Treatment with yerba mate at 10 µg/mL in cultures exposed to 40 µM rotenone reduced cytotoxicity and apoptosis, as assessed by flow cytometry, and modulated the gene expression of antioxidant enzymes and the expression and protein levels of caspases-3 and -8. Although oxidative stress parameters in the yerba mate plus rotenone group remained higher than those observed in cultures treated with yerba mate alone, indicating partial attenuation of antioxidant effects in the presence of rotenone, protection against oxidative DNA damage was observed. Overall, these findings suggest that the aqueous yerba mate extract exerts modulatory effects on oxidative stress and cell death pathways in this in vitro model of PD.
Copyright (c) 2026 Elize Musachio, Tábada Samantha Marques Rosa, Verônica Farina Azzolin, Moisés Henrique Mastella, Izabella Paz Danezi Felin, Marta Medeiros Frescura Duarte, Maria Denise Schimith, Aron Ferreira da Silveira, Ivana Beatrice Mânica da Cruz, Fernanda Barbisan http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Absence of allelic variants in the BRCA1 gene of northern Brazilian breast cancer patients who met criteria for hereditary predisposition: a transversal study
Background - It is estimated that about 5 to 10% of all breast cancer cases have a hereditary context, in which tumor progression occurs through the activation or repression of important genes in the germ cell line of an individual. BRCA1 is the most penetrant gene associated with breast cancer, and the presence of pathogenic mutations in its sequence increases the risk of developing this neoplasm to 45-75%. In the northern region of Brazil, the largest geographical region of the country, only two studies have been conducted to date to detect allelic variants in this gene. Objectives - This is a transversal study that aimed to assess pathogenic mutations in the BRCA1 gene of breast cancer patients treated in a public health reference unit for cancer research and treatment in the western Amazon. Design, setting and methods- Genetic testing was performed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods and Sanger sequencing of seven important coding regions of the BRCA1 gene. Results - No variants were found in the sequences studied, which may indicate that the frequency of pathogenic mutations in the BRCA1 gene in this population is low. Conclusions - Although no pathogenic mutations were identified in the analyzed sequences, this study provides epidemiological data for a better understanding of the Brazilian mutational profile of genes associated with breast cancer.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jorge Frank Braga Ferreira, Iago Lucas Viana da Silva, Carla Caroline Alves de Lima, Diana Vieira Brito, Cleiton Fantin Rezende http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Different transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation pathways in the treatment of mixed urinary incontinence in women: an experimental study
Objective: To verify and compare the effects of transcutaneous tibial nerve electrical stimulation (TTNS) combined with Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT) versus parasacral transcutaneous electrical stimulation (PTES) combined with PFMT in women with mixed urinary incontinence (MUI). Method: A longitudinal experimental study was performed, with pre- and post-treatment assessments. Forty women with MUI were divided into a Tibial Group: TTNS + PFMT and a Parasacral Group: PTES + PFMT. The treatment was performed twice a week, totaling 12 sessions. The electrical stimulation parameters used were: frequency: 10Hz, pulse duration: 700µs, intensity: according to sensitivity, and duration: 20 minutes. PFMT was performed in four positions (sitting, lying down, standing, and on all fours) immediately after the electrical stimulation. Pre- and post-treatment evaluations were conducted using a clinical history form, the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-20 (PFDI-20), which investigates pelvic floor discomfort, the King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ), which assesses quality of life related to urinary incontinence, and the PERFECT scheme, which assesses pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function. In the statistical analysis, ANOVA for repeated measures was applied to verify the effects of treatments, time points, and interactions on the investigated variables, with a significance level of 5%. Results: The groups demonstrated significant improvements in PFDI 20, KHQ, and PERFECT when comparing pre- and post-treatment time points, with no significant difference between treatments. Conclusion: Treatment with electrical stimulation combined with PFMT promotes improvement in MUI regardless of the application site, leading to enhanced quality of life and PFM function.
Copyright (c) 2026 Roberta Gabrielle Pena Filocreão, Nalanda Vitória Pereira da Silveira, Mikaela da Silva Corrêa, Juliana Falcão Padilha http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Visual processing deficits in obsessive-compulsive disorder: A integrative review
Objectives: The mechanisms underlying visual processing impairment in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder are still insufficiently understood. The present study aimed to conduct an integrative review regarding how visual processing is affected in individuals with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, as well as the implications of these alterations for executive functions. Method: The review used the PRISMA normative guidelines, including studies published between 2015 and 2024, indexed in the PubMed, Scopus, Lilacs and PsycINFO databases. The selection and data extraction process was performed independently and blindly by two authors, following predefined eligibility criteria. Results: The final sample included 14 studies, most of which identified significant impairment in antisaccade tasks in individuals with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Conclusions: These studies provide evidence that specific attentional biases are linked to Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder symptomatology and that these alterations may be associated with deficits in inhibitory control, contributing to symptomatology persistence.
Copyright (c) 2026 Daniele de Fátima Paiva Abreu, Ana Maria Vieira Queiroga, Natanael Antônio dos Santos http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Eating habits, chewing pattern, and anthropometric characteristics of individuals with temporomandibular disorder
Objective: To describe the eating habits and the consistencies of the food consumed, relating them to facial anthropometry and masticatory characteristics of the individuals diagnosed with temporomandibular disorder compared to a control group. Method: The study included 40 individuals who answered an online questionnaire. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the individuals were called for a clinical evaluation. For the dental evaluation we used the DC/TMD protocol, while in the speech evaluation we used parts of the MBGR protocol. Data on facial anthropometry, mandibular movement measurements, and masticatory function were collected. The sample was divided, for purpose of assessment, into a control group and a group with temporomandibular disorder. Results: Participants in the group with temporomandibular disorder classified some foods as harder to chew than those in the control group (p=0.043). The group with temporomandibular disorder presented smaller mouth opening, reduced mandibular laterality, and greater vertical dimension of occlusion. Both groups predominantly used alternating bilateral chewing (control group: 80% and temporomandibular disorder group: 75%), but only the temporomandibular disorder group presented chronic unilateral chewing (20%), besides showing more alterations in their orofacial motor skills. Conclusion: Temporomandibular disorder can influence certain eating habits. The preference for softer food consistencies is possibly related to an attempt to minimize chewing discomfort, which, in turn, can contribute to muscular and functional alterations. Thus, the data enhance the importance of considering eating-related behaviors to be associated to the patient's complaint.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ligia Patron Witwytzkyj, Graziela Mackowiesky Brigido Bernardo, Murilo Kazuo Iwassake, Fabiane Miron Stefani http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Nurses' potentialities and difficulties in identifying clinical deterioration
Objective: to analyze the strengths and challenges faced by nurses in identifying clinical deterioration in adult patients in a general medicine unit. Methods: a qualitative and descriptive study conducted at a university hospital in southern Brazil between March and June 2024. Sixteen nurses, selected through purposive sampling, participated. The data for this article were collected through participant observation and semi-structured interviews and analyzed using discursive textual analysis with the aid of IRAMUTEQ software. Results: The strengths identified included effective communication among the nursing team, the use of handover tools, early detection of clinical changes, and teamwork. The difficulties, on the other hand, were related to the absence of care protocols, structural and logistical limitations, a diverse patient population, high staff turnover and professional inexperience, failures in interprofessional communication, and demotivation at work. Conclusion: The identification of clinical deterioration is influenced by organizational and communication factors, as well as by nurses’ professional experience, highlighting the need for institutional strategies that strengthen patient safety.
Marhesca Carolyne de Miranda Barros Gomes
Kelly Neuma Lopes de Almeida Gentil Schneider
Copyright (c) 2026 Marhesca Carolyne de Miranda Barros Gomes, Rosemary Silva da Silveira, Simoní Saraiva Bordignon, Emanuelli Mancio Ferreira da Luz, Kelly Neuma Lopes de Almeida Gentil Schneider, Clara Santana Sousa http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Medicinal plants in the face of infectious diseases: Perception of their use by university students in the health field
Plants have been used for years as a way to restore and strengthen health. Although the use of medicinal plants is common, health professionals have limited knowledge on this topic, which may compromise the reception of patients who opt for this therapy. This study adopted a cross-sectional observational design with the aim of analyzing the perception of health academics regarding the use of medicinal plants in the face of infectious diseases. An epidemiological questionnaire was completed and sent to the institutional email of the academics via a Google form, containing variables related to medicinal plants and infectious diseases by university students in the health field (pharmacy, nursing, aesthetics and cosmetics, nutrition, dentistry, medicine, veterinary medicine, physiotherapy and psychology) from a Private University located in the northwest region of the state of Paraná, Brazil. Once completed, the results were described and submitted to statistical analysis using the Chi-Square Test (ҳ²) with Fisher's Exact Test. The results showed that the majority of participating students were between 18 and 25 years old (77.35%), mainly female (71.07%), regardless of the area evaluated. The students demonstrated that they knew and used medicinal plants, such as chamomile, lemon balm, mint, ginger, guaco, garlic, and saffron. However, this knowledge is not linked to that acquired during graduation, being equal to popular knowledge. Therefore, it is suggested that this theme be included in the pedagogical curriculum of courses in, at least, elective subjects, in line with the guidelines of the National Policy on Integrative and Complementary Practices and the National Policy on Medicinal Plants and Phytotherapeutics, which, despite being in force since 2006, still face difficulties in curricular insertion due to bureaucratic obstacles.
Copyright (c) 2025 Context and Health Journal http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Association of polymorphisms in gastric cancer in latin american individuals: A brief systematic review
Objective: To systematically compile all information that clarifies which genetic polymorphisms are associated with gastric cancer in South American individuals. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA model and PICO strategy, based on the guiding question: “Which genetic polymorphisms are related to gastric cancer in the Latin American population?” Articles were searched in the PubMed, LILACS, BVS, and Google Scholar databases, following defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Fifty-two articles were found, and after analysis, 12 were definitively included in the review. Results: Several polymorphisms were identified in various genes involved in gene regulation, protein coding, inflammatory processes, oncological malnutrition, and drug-gene interaction, acting as potential molecular markers for the development of gastric cancer. Conclusion: The discovery of possible biomarkers that guide the relationship between gastric cancer and the polymorphisms of the genes studied in this review is promising. However, further studies are needed to better investigate this relationship and clarify the development of this pathology based on variations in various genes, allowing for future diagnostic approaches based on Single Nucleotide Polymorphism and genetic intervention in gastric cancer.
Rita de Cássia Silva de Oliveira de Oliveira
Copyright (c) 2026 Maervily Jacqueline dos Santos Gomes, Claudia Rodrigues dos Reis, Marcio Deyvid Corrêa Santa Brigida, Maria Elisa Costa de Oliveira, Pedro Afonso Gomes Costa, Haiala Soter Silva de Oliveira, Erik William Farias Coelho, Victor Leno Silva Paes, Rita de Cássia Silva de Oliveira de Oliveira http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Accuracy of the Bedside pews scale in determining clinical deterioration upon admission of pediatric patients
Objective: To evaluate the accuracy of Bedside PEWS in determining clinical deterioration in pediatric patients upon admission. Method: Cross-sectional and retrospective study. A sample of 591 medical records of children admitted to a pediatric emergency department between January and December 2018. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. For each Bedside PEWS cutoff point, sensitivity and specificity were estimated, using transfer to intensive care as the outcome. A Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve was constructed based on these values. Results: Upon emergency admission, for PEWS >4, the ROC curve accuracy was 76.9%, with a sensitivity of 59.1% and specificity of 78.0% (p<0.001). Upon transfer from the emergency department, for PEWS >5, the ROC curve accuracy was 87.4%, with a sensitivity of 72.6% and specificity of 94.3% (p<0.001). Conclusions: Bedside PEWS is a valid tool for assessing clinical deterioration in children, with PEWS ≥5 being the most reliable indicator.
Copyright (c) 2025 Revista Contexto & Saúde http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Knowledge and participation in public physical activity programs of brazilians with self-reported diabetes mellitus
Objective: To describe the prevalence of knowledge and participation in public physical activity programs and barriers related to non-participation in these programs by individuals with self-reported diabetes mellitus. Methods: Cross-sectional study with data from the National Health Survey, 2019. Pearson's chi-square test was used in the analysis. Results: A total of 7,088 adults with self-reported diabetes mellitus were included. The prevalence of knowledge was 28.5% (95%CI: 26.5-30.5) and, of these, 11.1% (95%CI: 8.7-14.2) reported participating in public physical activity programs. The most reported barriers were lack of interest in the activities offered (37.4%) and schedule incompatibility (23.6%). Knowledge was higher among women, individuals with higher education, those with higher household income per capita, and residents of the Southeast macro-region. Conclusion: A small portion of individuals with self-reported diabetes mellitus reported knowing about and participating in public physical activity programs. The prevalence of knowledge differed according to sex, education, income, and geographic macro-region. The barriers of lack of interest and lack of time were the most reported by individuals with self-reported diabetes mellitus. It is necessary to expand actions and programs to promote physical activity to prevent and control diabetes mellitus.
Copyright (c) 2025 Maria Fernanda Rossetti Rogerio, Bruno de Souza Moreira, Ana Elza do Nascimento, Juliana Ilídio da Silva, Vanessa Moraes Bezerra, Amanda Cristina de Souza Andrade http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Teacher’s illness and absenteeism in Uruguaiana-RS / Brazil: why do they get ill?
This study aimed to identify the primary causes of medical leave among teachers in the municipal education system of Uruguaiana, RS. It is a descriptive, documental, cross-sectional, and quantitative study which analyzed data from teachers from 1st to 9th grade, across 16 public municipal schools. Variables included sex, age, date of admission, ICD code/reason for medical consultation, school assignment, and the month/year of medical certificate submission, covering the period from July 2018 to July 2019. Statistical analyses comprise means, medians, standard deviations, absolute and relative frequencies, 95% confidence intervals (CI), and the Chi-square test, with significance set at p<0.05. An amount of 1,776 medical certificates was submitted during the study period. Among the teachers, 33.3% were aged 50.1 years or older, and 67.4% worked in peripheral schools. The most frequent reasons for medical leave were miscellaneous ICD diagnoses (29.9%), various causes (25.8%), family-related appointments (17.3%), and musculoskeletal disorders (13.9%). A statistically significant association was found between the reason for medical leave and most of the analyzed variables, except for school location (p=0.387). Nonetheless, teachers from peripheral schools showed higher rates of illness and absenteeism. Musculoskeletal disorders emerged as the leading specific cause of medical leave, with a marked increase in related certificates during the second academic semester. Overall, health issues documented in the certificates were predominantly associated with age, length of service, number of sick leave days, and the academic calendar period.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nathalie Yelena Plucinski Cardoso Ribas, Patrícia Becker Engers, Simone Lara, Phillip Vilanova Ilha, Susane Graup http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Understanding of people with spinal cord injury about the performance of transfers for their daily activities
Objective: to understand, based on the Adaptation Model, how people with spinal cord injury perceive and perform safe transfers in their daily activities. Methodology: qualitative study, based on the Adaptation Model. A total of 17 paraplegics with post-traumatic spinal cord injury were interviewed. The participants’ information was analyzed in light of content analysis. Results: of the 17 participants, 15 men and 2 women, only 11 declared themselves as rehabilitated; in fact, eight stated that they had not received training to perform transfers. The analysis of the raw data was decoded into recording units, which gave rise to two thematic categories: “Essential adaptive skills that distinguish them as dependent or independent for the performance of daily activities” and “Activities that promote autonomy and restore self-confidence, either from the received training or through peer sharing.” Final Considerations: the participants stated that performing transfers safely and independently is crucial for them to carry out their daily activities with autonomy, functional independence, leave the house, and achieve full social inclusion. They also reported that they share experiences with peers and use resources of new learning available on social networks. In this way, nurses specialized in rehabilitation, based on the Adaptation Model, can invest in guidance, training, and periodic assessment of transfers, to minimize the daily difficulties of people with spinal cord injury, since they work in the direct care of these people in the various spheres of health care, aiming at the promotion of their self-esteem, adaptation, and independent life.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hilmara Ferreira da Silva, Vanessa Vianna Cruz, Nébia Maria Almeida de Figueiredo, Aline Coutinho Sento Sé, Olga Maria Pimenta Lopes Ribeiro, Amanda Sarkis Moor Santos Xavier, Wiliam César Alves Machado http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Perceptions of patients undergoing palliative care about the occupational impacts experienced in cancer
Objective: The aim of this study is to describe the main occupational repercussions experienced by people undergoing oncological palliative care and to reflect on the impacts. Method: This is a descriptive, cross-sectional study with a qualitative approach, in which the participants were 6 patients over 18 years of age, diagnosed with cancer and receiving palliative care from a home care service. Data collection used a characterization form and an interview guide, with individual interviews conducted during a single meeting in the patient's home. The data from the interviews were categorized, described, and interpreted based on the fourth edition of the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework: Domain and Process document. Results: The average age of the participants was 56.5 years, with the time since receiving the cancer diagnosis varying between 9 months and 13 years. In most cases, participants had been undergoing palliative care for less than 6 months. Two analytical categories were systematized: 1) Occupational repercussions experienced as a result of cancer, in which both interruptions and changes in performance patterns were observed; 2) Impacts of occupational repercussions: understanding the representations intertwined in the experience of losses, in which implications of occupational modifications associated with aspects of satisfaction, beliefs, and adaptive difficulties linked to the disruption of occupational roles were verified. Conclusion: Considering the repercussions and losses experienced as an aspect of potential additional suffering, it is deemed necessary to incorporate the occupational dimension into care planning, in addition to encouraging further research in this area.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ana Catarina das Neves Chagas, Tatiana Barbieri Bombarda http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Recommendations for promoting patient safety and quality of care in the prison system: an integrative review
Health incidents occurring in the prison system are not uncommon, and patient safety remains under-theorized in extra-hospital settings. The objective of this study was to identify, in the literature, recommendations for promoting patient safety and quality of care in the prison system. An integrative review was conducted in January 2024 using the BDENF, IBECS, LILACS, MEDLINE, and SciELO databases, including publications up to the year 2023. Of the 185 articles initially identified, 20 were included in the analysis. Nineteen recommendations were synthesized to promote safety and quality of health care in the prison context, highlighting access for persons deprived of liberty to health services, multidisciplinary team, and early diagnosis of diseases and health conditions; control and supervision of the medication management process; professional training and education; adequate health workforce staffing; development of guidelines and policies; and risk management. The identified actions, when applied in practice, may contribute to the quantitative and qualitative advances necessary to provide value-based care to persons deprived of liberty and to meet the principles of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Copyright (c) 2026 Josemar Batista, Barbara Cristina Alberti, Eliane Miranda Rocha, Ivani Batista, João Kleber Nogueira, Kaynã Formigheri Ferreira http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Nursing care protocol for children discharged from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Objective: to develop and validate a protocol for continuity of care for children discharged from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Methods: Action research, conducted at a health insurance company. Ten nurses participated in the development of the protocol and 12 nurse judges participated in the content validation. Results: the protocol directs the continuity of nursing care for children discharged from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit according to their health complexity, low, medium or high, measured by means of a Classification Table, developed in this study. For each level of complexity, this table indicates the systematization of care between professional, child and family. The protocol was validated with a Content Validation Index of 0.95 and a Kappa coefficient of 0.26. Conclusion: the protocol developed collectively and according to local needs, has innovative potential, since it systematizes nursing care according to the complexity of the child's health at hospital discharge, provides for continuity of care, and promotes evidence-based practice.
Drugs of abuse use in pregnancy: Clinical and neonatal outcomes
Objective: To analyze the sociodemographic and clinical profile of pregnant women with use, misuse, or dependence on drugs of abuse and of their newborns, comparing these characteristics before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study based on secondary data extracted from the medical records of pregnant women with substance use disorders treated at a high-complexity health center in the Central-West region of Minas Gerais, Brazil, between March 2019 and March 2021. Results: A total of 52 medical records were analyzed. Among the documented psychoactive substances, tobacco was the most frequent (69.3%), followed by alcohol (43.1%), marijuana (40.8%), and cocaine (35.4%). The simultaneous use of two or more substances was common, particularly the combination of alcohol + tobacco (21.0%). Comorbidities were frequent, especially syphilis (28.1%), urinary tract infection (21.9%), and hypertension (21.9%). Among the newborns, 19.6% were preterm, and the median gestational age was 38 weeks; 12.2% had low birth weight. There were no statistically significant differences between pregnant women evaluated before (n = 18) and during (n = 34) the pandemic regarding sociodemographic characteristics, clinical profile, substance use patterns, or neonatal outcomes. Conclusion: The findings reinforce the need for public health strategies targeted at the care of pregnant women who use psychoactive substances, in order to reduce associated risks to maternal and neonatal health.
Copyright (c) 2026 Júlio César Veloso, Carolline Rodrigues Menezes, Nayara Ragi Baldoni, Alba Otoni, Sayonara Maria Lia Fook, Taynah Cecília Camargos Leão, Márcia Christina Caetano Romano, Farah Maria Drumond Chequer http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Requirements for a device for patient transport in pre-hospital care in buildings with reduced-cabin elevators
The aim of this study was to design efficiency requirements for the development of a technological device to be used in patient transport in conventional elevators with reduced cabin dimensions. This methodological study was conducted from October 2021 to December 2022 and comprised five phases: scoping review; mapping of influencing factors and identification of requirements; definition of requirements; content validity using the Content Validity Index (CVI) by an expert committee; and synthesis and analysis of information and data. Twenty experts, including physicians, nurses, military firefighters, and a Franco-Brazilian firefighter (Paris), from the five Brazilian macro-regions (North, Northeast, Midwest, Southeast, and South), responded to a validity instrument developed using a Likert scale. Among the results, 90% of items reached the recommended level of agreement and satisfaction, considering values above 0.8 (CVI values between 0.8 and 1). Only one item obtained a CVI of 0.55 and was therefore considered statistically inadequate and excluded. Four items were added based on experts’ suggestions. Additionally, ten technological devices for patient transport available in national and international markets were analyzed for benchmarking purposes, as they presented specifications closest to the established requirements, although none fully met all properties and characteristics. This study identified an opportunity to develop a new technological solution that is practical, applicable, accessible, and low-cost, as a health technology aimed at optimizing patient transport in pre-hospital care services in Brazil.
Copyright (c) 2026 Vanessa Gauchi Puccetti, Rita Neuma Dantas Cavalcante de Abreu, José Eurico de Vasconcelos Filho, Karla Maria Carneiro Rolim, Luis Rafael Leite Sampaio http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessment of delirium incidence in critically ill patients using the confusion assessment method for intensive care units
Objective: To determine the incidence of delirium in critically ill users admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) and analyze its association with clinical and therapeutic variables using the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU). Methods: This prospective, analytical, observational study included 108 adult ICU users. Data were collected using clinical forms and the CAM-ICU tool, administered by trained physiotherapists. The investigated variables included sex, age, length of hospitalization, type of admission, sedation, mechanical ventilation, and the occurrence of delirium. Associations were tested using the chi-square test at a significance level of 5 %. Results: Delirium was identified in 29.6% of users. A statistically significant association was found between delirium and the use of sedation (P = 0.010) and mechanical ventilation (P < 0.001). Users receiving mechanical ventilation were 5.65 times more likely to develop delirium, and those diagnosed with delirium had longer hospital stays. Conclusion: Sedation and mechanical ventilation were significantly associated with delirium in critically ill users. These findings reinforce the need for preventive measures, routine delirium monitoring, and multidisciplinary management strategies to minimize adverse outcomes during ICU stays.
Fernanda Cristina de Abreu Quintela Castro
Copyright (c) 2026 Gabrielle Louzada de Souza Corrêa, Laryssa Pani Schrioder, Jaqueline Benaquio, Clairton Marcolongo Pereira, Sarah Fernandes Teixeira, Michelle Lima Garcez, Tatiani Bellettini dos Santos, Fernanda Cristina de Abreu Quintela Castro http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Virtual reality-based systems and their analgesic effects in the treatment of phantom limb pain: A scope review
Objective: To synthesize the available scientific evidence on treatment of phantom limb pain using virtual reality and its effects on pain. Method: This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines and the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) instructions. The search was conducted using five databases, as well as sources of unpublished studies and gray literature. The selection was done by two independent researchers and observed the following inclusion criteria: full-text primary articles; freely available (open-access); with no restrictions on time, language, or country; and which applied virtual reality to adult amputees with phantom pain. The results were analyzed qualitatively regarding the outcome of interest – pain – and presented descriptively in tables and graphs. Results: A total of 29 articles published between 2006 and 2024 were selected for the evidence synthesis. Most of the studies analyzed applied the concepts of mirror therapy and phantom limb movement. The immersive experience favored the use of 3D gamification. There is a tendency to assess its use in the home setting. The customized games and equipment used hamper the replication of the intervention in clinical practice. Conclusions: Although the studies under review show that virtual reality reduces phantom limb pain, their design limits the ability to determine causal relationships between virtual reality and pain reduction. Future research must employ more rigorous methodologies and larger sample sizes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Crisley da Silva Guenin, Beatriz Cristina Freitas, Rosa Maria Esteves Moreira da Costa http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Women's motivations for planned home birth after hospital vaginal birth
Objective: to analyze the experiences that motivated women to choose planned home birth after vaginal hospital birth. Method: this is a qualitative, descriptive and exploratory study carried out in western Santa Catarina, southern Brazil, with women who had planned home births after previous vaginal hospital births. Data were collected from September to December 2022, in a triangulated manner, through semi-structured interviews, information collected from pregnant women's notebooks and from the registration forms of the teams that attended the births. Thematic content analysis was used, culminating in the theme “Previous hospital experiences”. Results: Eleven women participated in the study and reported previous negative hospital experiences, including various forms of obstetric and neonatal violence as the main motivations for choosing home birth. The reports revealed trauma and dissatisfaction with hospital care, highlighting unnecessary interventions, lack of privacy and disrespect for personal preferences during the parturition period and postpartum, which led women to desire a more respectful and personalized environment in subsequent pregnancies. Conclusion: the choice of planned home birth reflects women's search for greater autonomy and safety in the birth process, with care that values ​​respect and focuses on the quality of care provided to the mother and baby. There is a need to review hospital practices and promote humanized care that values ​​the protagonism and physiology of the parturient woman.
Copyright (c) 2026 Emanuely Scramim, Eduarda Luiza Maciel da Silva, Tassiana Potrich, Maíra Rossetto, Andréia Machado Cardoso, Joice Moreira Schmalfuss http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Knowledge and understanding of healthcare professionals and managers regarding Integrative and Complementary Health Practices (ICHP) in northeastern Brazil
Objective: this study’s objective is to identify and describe the knowledge of health secretaries, Primary Care coordinators, and professionals who provide Integrative and Complementary Health Practices regarding the National Policy on Integrative and Complementary Health Practices. Method: this is a qualitative study conducted in the VI Health Region of Rio Grande do Norte, which comprises 37 municipalities. The study included 66 participants divided among health secretaries, coordinators, and health professionals. The instruments used to obtain the results were semi-structured interviews and non-participant observation. The data were analyzed using thematic content analysis. The study was submitted to the ethics committee and approved. Result: knowledge about Integrative and Complementary Health Practices among managers, coordinators, and health professionals is uneven, ranging from a deep understanding to a superficial or incorrect comprehension. Conclusion: lack of knowledge leads to misconceptions that these practices are less scientific or technical, which undermines their credibility and hinders their implementation in health services. Continuing education has strong potential to overcome the lack of knowledge and the challenges related to the provision of integrative and complementary health practices .
Copyright (c) 2026 Maria Valéria Chaves de Lima, Janaina Maciel de Queiroz, Kalyane Kelly Duarte de Oliveira, Janieiry Lima de Araújo, Thainá Jacome Andrade de Lima, Perla Silva Rodrigues, Antônio Diego Costa Bezerra, Rodrigo Jácob Moreira de Freitas http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Integrative and complementary health practices: The perspective of Primary Health Care professionals
Objective: to identify the knowledge that primary care health professionals have regarding integrative and complementary health practices and how these practices are provided. Method: A descriptive, exploratory study with a qualitative approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with higher-education professionals from the core healthcare team—physicians and nurses—as well as the multidisciplinary home care and support team. The results were analyzed using Laurence Bardin’s content analysis technique. Results: It was found that professionals’ knowledge of Integrative and Complementary Health Practices and the National Policy on Integrative and Complementary Health Practices is limited and superficial, and that most had no prior exposure to the subject during their training, being unable to determine whether the municipality where they work offers any type of integrative practice. It was also found that the lack of training on the subject hinders the provision of these services. Conclusion: It is necessary to implement effective measures that promote training and investments in infrastructure and supplies so that healthcare professionals can provide high-quality care for the various practices already guaranteed by the National Policy on Integrative and Complementary Practices.
Copyright (c) 2026 Iandra Viana Batalha, Aline Pereira da Silva, Ana Beatriz Moraes de Freitas, Maria Valéria Chaves de Lima, Natália Amorim Ramos Félix, Francisca Adriana Barreto http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0