Población y Salud en Mesoamérica is an academic electronic journal, published biannually and of continued publication by the Centro Centroamericano de Población in collaboration with the Instituto de Investigaciones en Salud (INISA) and whose publisher is the University of Costa Rica. The main objective of this publication is the dissemination of research on population from demographic perspective, and public health. This journal is registered and indexed in important international indexes. E-mail contact: revista.ccp@ucr.ac.cr URL OAI-PMH: https://revistas.ucr.ac.cr/index.php/psm/oai
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Living with acquired brain injury (ABI) in Costa Rica during the COVID-19 pandemic: narratives and adjustments in psychosocial adversity
Introduction: Living with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) in Costa Rica during the COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges and adversities for individuals with ABI, informal caregivers, and healthcare workers. Isolation, discrimination, and stereotypes impacted psychosocial well-being, although experiences may have varied depending on the cultural context. Research on this specific population facing the pandemic in Latin America is currently limited. To address this gap, this study explored these populations´ experiences during the pandemic, considering it as an adverse psychosocial situation. The potential perceived role of the proximal or collectivistic culture as a protective factor was also contemplated. Methodology: The study was designed as a cross-sectional and descriptive approach, with a qualitative phenomenological focus. An open online survey was conducted to collect narratives and self-reported data. The sample comprised 35 adult ABI patients, 22 informal caregivers, and 8 healthcare workers. Results: Findings revealed that individuals with ABI, informal caregivers, and healthcare professionals experienced varying levels of pandemic-related fear. Narratives primarily highlighted the impact of the pandemic on various aspects such as the economy, employment, family, and social interactions. However, some individuals also reported a sense of stability during the pandemic and identified potential areas of personal growth amid the health crisis. Conclusions: The study concluded that participants with ABI faced dual adversity, encountering challenges during the pandemic and the repercussions of their health condition. Moreover, the collectivistic tendencies within the cultural context of Costa Rica were considered a protective factor for these populations.
Copyright (c) 2026 Salazar-Villanea et al. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
University students and racial discrimination: an analysis based on family income
Introduction: Racial discrimination is a complex problem that directly affects the experience of university students, impacting not only their academic performance, but also their mental health and well-being. Objective: To discuss the characteristics of racial discrimination and its interfaces with the family income of university students. Methodology: A descriptive, exploratory, cross-sectional study was conducted, with a sample of 751 university students from the state of Ceará, Brazil. The instruments used were a sociodemographic questionnaire and the discrimination experience scale. Results: Among the students, 36.9% had a family income of between 1 and 2 salaries. With regard to discrimination because of their race or color, those with an income of less than one minimum wage were the ones who experienced this the most, 39.9%. The place of occurrence with the highest exposure for those with an income of less than one minimum wage was school, 37.5%. Conclusion: The results suggest that there is a direct relationship between family income and racial discrimination: the lower the income, the greater the exposure to racial discrimination. There is an urgent need to implement strategies to protect and support those who experience racial discrimination.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nazaré Oliveira et al. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Protective variables of symptoms of depression, generalized anxiety and fear of covid-19 among colombian adults in quarantine
Introduction: This study examined whether social support (measured with the MOS) and perceived meaning of life (PIL Test) could be related to a lower frequency of symptoms of depression (PHQ-9), generalized anxiety (GAD-7) and fear of COVID-19 (FCV-19S), among Colombian adults in quarantine. Methodology: This study was conducted using a quantitative approach, implementing a descriptive, cross-sectional and comparative design. Participated 305 persons from 19 to 71 years old (74.4% women). Linear regressions by steps were implemented, examining the effect of age and sex. Results: The total scores or some subscale of the MOS and the PIL Test explained 54% of the variance of the PHQ-9, 38.3% of the variance of the GAD-7 and 14.4 % of the variance of FCV-19S, presenting the sex and the age significant coefficients in almost all the resulting models. Women obtained significantly higher scores (p≤.05) in fear of COVID-19. Conclusions: These results indicate that an improvement in social support and the sense of life could constitute protective factors of these symptoms in quarantine.
Copyright (c) 2025 César Armando Rey Anacona, Eliana Marcela Ocampo Rojas, Jessica Estefanía Cuervo García, Miguel Gallegos, Mauricio Cervigni, Pablo Martino, Tomás Caycho-Rodríguez (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Relationship Between Forced Migration and Complicated Acute Appendicitis in a National Referral Hospital in Peru
Introduction: Acute Appendicitis is one of the most common surgical emergencies both globally and nationally, with various factors potentially leading to greater complications. This study aims to determine the association between complicated acute appendicitis and forced migration in adults treated at a referral hospital in Peru between 2020 and 2024. Methodology: A quantitative, observational, cross-sectional, analytical, and retrospective study was conducted on a population of patients over 18 years old diagnosed with acute appendicitis. The sample included 690 patients, analyzed according to clinical, demographic, and laboratory variables. Results: The findings showed a significant association between forced migration and complicated acute appendicitis (CAA). The mean age of the patients was 46.11 ± 10.5 years, with a predominance of males (52.9%) and adults (88.4%) in the migrant group, where 73.2% presented CAA. Additionally, forced migration was significantly associated with CAA (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.14; p = 0.023), as well as a neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio ≥ 7.4 and an Alvarado score > 7.5. Conclusions: The results suggest that forced migration is a significant risk factor for the development of complicated acute appendicitis, possibly due to barriers in healthcare access and delayed diagnosis. Therefore, it is recommended to strengthen strategies to improve medical care for migrant populations and reduce these health disparities.
Copyright (c) 2025 Delgado Montaño et al. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Association of 25-hydroxyvitamin D status with overweight and obesity in Costa Rican adults
Aim: This research aimed to investigate the association between plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and overweight/obesity in Costa Rican adults with and without type 2 diabetes. Methods: 604 adults were involved in a cross-sectional study from a clinical-base urban Costa Rican population. Clinical variables such as glycemic status and arterial hypertension were registered. Blood samples were collected to measure circulating vitamin D levels, fasting plasma glucose, glycated hemoglobin, and lipid profile. The association between plasma levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and clinical and biochemical variables was tested using a linear regression model. Results: There was an 80% prevalence of overweight and obesity in this sample. Plasma levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D were in the deficiency range in 28% of subjects, in the insufficiency range in 49%, and only 23% of participants had sufficient levels. 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were lower in subjects with a body mass index above 25 kg/m2 (t-test, p= 0.006). The association between 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and body mass index remained significant (β: -0.15, CI 95%: -0.21 – -0.10) even after adjusting for classical risk factors such as lipid profile, glycemic status, and hypertension. Conclusion: Plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations were suboptimal in 77% of the sample. Additionally, low plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were associated with overweight/obesity in Costa Rican subjects.
Silvia L. Monge-Rodríguez Monge-Rodríguez
Copyright (c) 2026 Monge-Rodríguez et al. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Digital media consumption preferences of adolescents and teachers as input for the design of digital educational resources on food, nutrition and healthy lifestyles of the Póngale Vida model
Introduction: Nutritional Education must be adapted to digital consumption habits. Therefore, the digital media consumption preferences of students and teachers from three Professional Technical High Schools (CTP) in the Cantón of Golfito, were determined as a guiding input for the creation of digital content within the Póngale VidaⓇ model from the University of Costa Rica (UCR). Methodology: Quantitative, cross-sectional, and descriptive study conducted within the framework of the UCR-ED-3598 project. Population: Students and teachers from three CTPs, in the year 2022. Two digital questionnaires were developed to collect information on internet use, social media, digital content formats, and experience with virtual education, which were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: 79 teachers and 288 teenagers responded. Most people consume content using their mobile devices (96.5% and 75.9%), and the social media use ranges from three to four hours daily (30%). Students use more mobile data and consume content related to entertainment (music, movies, games, humor), both on websites and social networks. Health and nutrition topics are not among the top three preferred themes for both groups. Short videos are the favorite format. Conclusion: Health professionals must explore and learn new ways to work on health promotion with the teenager population and the teachers in charge. Nutritional education should be framed within E-Health, and M-learning should be used as one of its strategies, designing resources under the Mobile First philosophy-digital literacy- to reach this population through models such as Póngale VidaⓇ.
Copyright (c) 2025 González-Urrutia et al., https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Population practices regarding bean consumption and its implications for public health in Costa Rica
Introduction: The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is of great nutritional importance and high cultural and ecosystem value. However, its consumption has declined due to cultural, culinary, and family organization changes. This article aims to describe the purchasing, storage, cooking, and consumption practices of beans in Costa Rican families, in order to better understand the factors that can benefit or harm its consumption and thus enrich education and communication strategies around this staple food. Methodology: A 63-question digital questionnaire was self-administered, with a qualitative, descriptive, cross-sectional approach, and distributed through social media, seeking to reach the population throughout the national territory. The study population was adults in Costa Rica. The inclusion criteria were: being 18 years of age or older, having literacy skills, residing in Costa Rica, having internet access, and skill in using the virtual platform used. Results: Study participants preferred to buy red beans (35%). For preparation, 54% of families soaked beans before cooking, but only 19% soaked them for the appropriate amount of time, from 8 to 16 hours. More than 75% consumed beans at 2.2 meals a day. Conclusions: This study provides a description of practices related to bean consumption, which contributes to the development of educational initiatives based on current and culturally accepted practices.
Copyright (c) 2025 Alvarado Molina et al. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Marginalization and life expectancy loss during the Covid-19 pandemic in Mexico, 2020
Introduction: Studies have been conducted in Mexico on indicators of socioeconomic status in relation to morbidity, incidence, survival, mortality, and lethality due to Covid-19, with the exception of life expectancy (LE). This study proposes to examine LE for the year 2020 in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic and to analyze its relationship with indicators of marginalization in Mexican municipalities. Methodology: LE was calculated using the standard actuarial method based on death information from the Mexican Ministry of Health. Demographic information and indicators of marginalization were obtained from the National Population Council. Correlations and risk analyses were performed to evaluate the relationship between LE and marginalization indicators. A multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) was performed with indicators of education, income, housing, population size and LE. Results: The effect of marginalization indicators on LE indicate that the higher the percentage of marginalization, the higher the effect on LE. The population size of the municipalities had a positive relationship with LE, that is, the larger the population size, the greater the loss in years of LE. MCA reveals clear territorial polarization of well-being and longevity in Mexican municipalities, with educational attainment, income and population size remaining key determinants of LE. Conclusion: These results suggest that the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on LE was greater in populations with larger communities and, at the same time, the highest percentage of marginalization indicators was found in populations with smaller size.
Copyright (c) 2025 Uribe Salas & Núñez-Medina https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Domestic time use among young people in Mexico and Costa Rica: a comparative study
Introduction: Gender differences in time use among adults are well documented worldwide; however, there is a clear gap regarding certain life stages, such as adolescence and young single adulthood. Objective: To study time use patterns by sex among the population aged 15 to 24 in two Latin American countries, Mexico and Costa Rica. The study also examines individual factors that may influence participation in these activities. Methodology: National time use surveys from Mexico (2019) and Costa Rica (2022) were analyzed to estimate indicators on domestic, paid, educational, caregiving, and leisure activities, as well as to fit Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) models. Results: Gender inequalities persist among the population aged 15 to 24 in Mexico and Costa Rica; women devote more time to domestic work, while men spend more time in paid employment. School and labor market participation reduce women’s domestic workload, but gaps remain, highlighting the influence of factors such as country and activity status in time use patterns. Conclusions: Women are systematically assigned domestic tasks from adolescence, contributing to the internalization of traditional gender roles and expectations.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ortiz-Ávila https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Electronic cigarette consumption in Latin America: epidemiological and toxicological aspects
Introduction: The use of electronic cigarettes (ECs) has increased in Latin America, especially among youth, despite limited evidence on their long-term effects and the presence of toxic compounds in e-liquids (ELs). The objective of this study is to systematize and analyze the available scientific information on electronic cigarette use in Latin America, identifying the main health risks, consumption patterns, and regulatory gaps, with the aim of guiding future research and public policies in the region. Materials and Methods: A total of 182 scientific publications from 2014 to 2024 were reviewed across academic databases, with 60 relevant studies selected. Results: ECs contain substances that can form toxic compounds such as aldehydes and heavy metals when inhaled. Studies in animal models and humans have reported damage to the respiratory, cardiovascular, and oral systems. Their popularity among youth is linked to social media, appealing flavors, and perceived low risk. Conclusions: ECs pose health risks comparable to conventional tobacco. Stricter regulations and local research are urgently needed to protect public health, particularly among younger populations.
Copyright (c) 2025 Chaves-Campos et al. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Infant mortality in Argentina: progress, provincial inequalities and associated social factors (2016-2022)
Introduction: Mortality in the first months of life is a key demographic indicator for the analysis of socioeconomic development, which in the Argentine case reflects large provincial asymmetries due to socioeconomic, health and environmental factors. Objectives: This article analyzes the evolution of infant mortality rates (IMR) in Argentina in a recent time frame (2016-2022) and examines the social and environmental factors associated with its prevalence at the provincial level. Methodology: A longitudinal ecological study using birth and death data from the National Ministry of Health and the Permanent Household Survey (Total Urbano, INDEC). Annual rates and provincial coefficients of variation were calculated, and multiple linear regression models were applied to estimate associations with socioeconomic variables and basic infrastructure. Results: The IMR showed a downward trend, with persistent regional inequalities. The lowest rates were recorded in the south (Tierra del Fuego, Neuquén), and the highest in the northeast (Formosa, Corrientes). Neonatal mortality was mainly associated with maternal age, quality of health infrastructure, and exposure to flood zones, while postneonatal mortality was more closely associated with maternal educational level, access to mains gas, and sanitation conditions. In both cases, better basic services were associated with lower rates. Conclusions: The incorporation of housing and basic services indicators into the analysis of infant mortality provides novel evidence for Argentina. Political policies to improve health infrastructure are required to reduce territorial asymmetries.
Copyright (c) 2025 Bauso et al. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Variations in the use of contraceptive methods among women in the regions of Argentina according to socioeconomic status during the second decade of the 21st century
Introduction: The objective was to analyze the changes in contraceptive use among women aged 15 to 49 in the regions of Argentina during the periods 2011-2012 and 2019-2020, with particular attention to the group of women aged 15 to 19, and to differentiate the female population by socioeconomic strata. Methodology: In this quantitative study, a comparison was made of the prevalence of contraceptive use among the female population aged 15 to 49 and in the subgroup of adolescents aged 15 to 19 in the regions of Argentina, according to wealth quintiles. The sources of information were the MICS Surveys on Girls, Boys, and Adolescents of Argentina from 2011-2012 and 2019-2020. Results: During the studied periods, Argentina and its regions showed statistically significant increases in the use of at least one contraceptive method. These increases were especially notable in the lower strata of the Northwest (NOA) and Northeast Argentina (NEA), as well as in the higher wealth quintiles of Patagonia and Pampeana. Among women aged 15-49, the modern methods that showed the greatest increases in use were tubal ligation, subdermal implants, and injectable contraceptives, and among adolescents, subdermal implants. Conclusions: It is hypothesized that the increase in contraceptive use is related to the sexual and reproductive health policies implemented in the 21st century, such
Copyright (c) 2025 Loyola et al. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effect of perceived discrimination on depressive symptomatology: The role of avoidant coping in an LGBTQ+ community in Peru
He study examines the mediating role of avoidant coping in the relationship between perceived discrimination and depressive symptomatology among 159 members of an LGBTQ+ community in a city in Peru, aged 18 to 52 years (M=28.24, SD=7.85). The Perceived Discrimination Scale in the LGBTQ+ Community by González-Rivera and Pabellón-Lebrón (2018), Spielberger’s (2008) State-Trait Depression Inventory (IDER), and Carver et al.’s (1989) avoidant coping dimension were administered. The results indicate that the mediation models analyzed are satisfactory (CFI=1.00; SRMR<.060). Individual discrimination has a positive effect on state depression (β=.14, p<.05) and trait depression (β=.15, p<.05); similarly, group discrimination has a positive effect on state depression (β=.24, p<.05) and trait depression (β=.20, p<.05). Avoidant coping mediates the relationship between both forms of discrimination and state and trait depression (β>.15, p<.05), confirming the mediation hypotheses. The study confirms that avoidant coping plays a significant mediating role in the relationship between perceived discrimination and depressive symptomatology in members of the LGBTQ+ community in Peru. These findings highlight the importance of addressing coping strategies to mitigate the negative impact of discrimination on the mental health of this population.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dionicio-Pinto & Peralta-Eugenio https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Cardiometabolic Risk Factors and relationship with medical disability in Workers from a Private company in Costa Rica
Introduction: The health status of employees influences productivity and absenteeism in the workplace. In Costa Rica, no studies exploring the relationship between the work environment and employee health were found. Methodology: This study employed a quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional approach. The population consisted of workers from a private company in Costa Rica, with a sample size of 92 merchandisers. The study variables included lipid profile, fasting blood glucose, insulin levels, anthropometric data, age, and disabilities. Logistic regression models were used to observe the effect of fasting blood glucose, altered blood pressure, and worker’s nutritional status on the quantification of the risk of work disability. Additionally, the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test was performed (statistical significance p≤0.05). Results: The sample had an average age of 34±7.7 years, and over 75% were overweight to some degree. A significant association (p<0.04) was found between triglyceride levels and HDL cholesterol (p<0.02) with age. It was determined that for each unit increase in glucose, the risk of disability increased 7% (OR: 1.07, 95% CI 1.01-1.14), significantly. Conclusions: In this population, most risk factors occur independently of age, which is a cause for concern. Individuals with altered fasting blood glucose have a higher risk of disability compared to those without this factor.
Copyright (c) 2025 Arce Marenco et al., https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Border restrictions during the pandemic COVID-19 in Latin America and the Caribbean
Introduction: This study analyzed the effect of travel restrictions, including closure of borders and the cancellation of international flights in Latin America and the Caribbean, as one of the early measures implemented to control the spread of COVID-19 virus. Methodology: Literature review examining governmental and scientific databases as well as news-press publications. The material obtained was organized according to the dates of the first cases of COVID-19, notifications informing closure of borders, flights suspension, and travel rebound. The data was crosschecked with the reports of the passengers stranded in Latin American countries highlighting governments' roles in response to the pandemic. Results: Travel restrictions and border control measures affected several passengers returning to their country of origin and/or legal residence. Passengers experienced overwhelming challenges impacting their socioeconomic status, families, health, and employment. Discrimination was also a topic addressed. Many citizens of Latin American countries stranded in various Latin American regions were forced to restructure their travel plans and spend several months in places other than their homes. Conclusions: The early measures had several unintended consequences in the lives of countless individuals, despite their effectiveness in decreasing the transmission of the virus
Copyright (c) 2025 Gallegos et al. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Using Google Trends Data to forecast homicide mortality: the case of Mexico
Introduction: In Mexico a major public safety concern is how to predict and reduce homicides to implement effective mitigation policies. Methodology: This study aims to compare traditional forecasting models —ARIMA and Vector Autoregressive (VAR)—with and without Google Trends data, the research explores ways to enhance prediction accuracy. Using homicide records from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI, for its Spanish acronym) and Google Trends data from 2006–2020, the study highlights the integration of real-time online data to complement official statistics. Results: Considering a forecast horizon of 15 months up to March 2020, results show that VAR models with Google Trends provide the best performance for both female and male homicides. Conclusions: The findings underscore the potential of integrating digital data sources into traditional models to provide more accurate and timely tools for public safety planning and intervention.
Copyright (c) 2025 Vazquez & Silva https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
ENGI educational method for promoting dietary guidelines in the community setting
Introduction: The School of Nutrition at the University of Costa Rica (ENu-UCR) developed the Interactive Group Nutrition Education (ENGI) method many years ago. The objective of this research is to apply the ENGI method in the community setting to promote healthy eating using dietary guidelines (GABSA-2022). Methodology: Mixed-method, cross-sectional, exploratory, and descriptive study. The population comprised nine community groups of adults and older adults from the urban area of San José (N = 141) who, as part of an ENu-UCR degree course, received the Healthy Eating course (8 sessions) taught by nine pairs of students (N = 18) under teacher supervision, from August to December 2023. Data collection was carried out using the Guide for Planning Educational Interventions, teaching plans, WhatsApp® groups, the Instrument for Monitoring Practical Performance, and two evaluation forms. Results: The ENGI method was well received by participants. The main point of improvement was the increase in the duration of each session by 30 minutes. Despite being a short intervention, 60% of participants reported changes in their daily habits after the course. It is worth reviewing the use of terms in the GABSA, as well as some topics of interest to communities. Conclusions: ENGI can function as a systematized methodology to promote healthy eating together with the use of GABSA-2022 at the community level.
Copyright (c) 2025 González-Urrutia et al. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
The use of artificial intelligence for teaching and learning in public health: concrete perspectives
Introduction: The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) arises with the potential to collaborate with Education and Science, transiting between a dialectical matrix of aggrandizement of the action of learning and teaching through the optimization of its processes, but it also presents challenges for this teaching-learning relationship in the field of Collective Health, due to the way this technology can be used and the lack of regulation that accompanies its rapid development. Study proposal: To analyze the use of Artificial Intelligence in the teaching-learning process in the field of Collective Health, by students and educators, from a dialectical perspective. Discussion: This is a critical-reflective theoretical essay, presented in two problematized axes, namely: the concrete context of teaching-learning in the face of the use of AI in Collective Health: Challenges about its use in teaching-learning in Collective Health; and the relationship between the new and the fetish about its use in the future of Collective Health. Final Considerations: It is concluded that the use of Artificial Intelligence cannot be denied as a tactic to achieve a dialectic of teaching-learning-teaching-learning, however, its use needs to overcome the barriers of irrational instrumentality due to the absence of reflection and criticism, essential attitudes for the field of Collective Health, avoiding the destructive traps of alienated activity/work.
Copyright (c) 2025 Araújo Carvalho et al. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Prevalence of lesions and alterations of the oral cavity in the Costa Rican population
Introduction: To evaluate the prevalence and characteristics of diseases of the oral cavity in the Costa Rican population, including the clinical profile of affected patients. Methodology: A cross-sectional, descriptive, and quantitative study was conducted using medical records from patients diagnosed and treated at a Stomatology Center in Heredia, Costa Rica, between January 2020 and December 2022. Only cases with definitive diagnoses (clinical, histopathological, or radiographic) were included. Data were extracted from complete records, categorized by lesion type and anatomical location, and analyzed by sex and age group to identify frequency patterns. Results: A total of 1,410 patients were evaluated. The majority were women (62%) with 33.4% of cases in the 41–60 age group. Regarding men, the most affected group was 21–40 years. Traumatic lesions were the most frequent (33%), followed by benign neoplasms (11.1%) and potentially malignant disorders (10%). Fibrous hyperplasia was the most frequent lesion (n101), followed by squamous papilloma (n87), leukoplakia (n66) and squamous cell carcinoma (n55). Soft tissues were the most affected (80.5%), with the tongue being the most common site (23.4%), followed by the gingiva (21.5%) and the lips (13.7%). Conclusions: This study systematically classified and quantified oral lesions in a defined clinical population, generating the most comprehensive epidemiological dataset of its kind in Costa Rica. The findings offer extrapolatable data for academic research, clinical training, and public health policy, helping to improve early diagnosis, prevention strategies, and the management of oral conditions, especially those with malignant potential, across diverse sectors of the population.
Copyright (c) 2025 Gerber-Mora & Lopes https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Menstrual health in indigenous Tseltal women from Pathuitz and Mequejá, in Chilón, Chiapas, Mexico
Introduction: In Mexico, menstruation is not even listed in official statistics, perpetuating the taboo, fear and ignorance on the subject, even more so in indigenous populations living in extreme poverty. Our objective was to analyze the menstrual experiences of young and adult women of the Tseltal indigenous communities of Pathuitz and Mequejá in Chilón, Chiapas, considering the definition of Menstrual Health of the “The Global Menstrual Collective's Terminology Action Group” under the focus of gender and feminist health. Methodology: Qualitative methodology promoting the co-research with the association “Asociación Yip Yatel Tseltal Ansetic A.C.” defending the participation of indigenous women as collaborators and researchers. We analyze the menstrual experience of 17 Tseltal women, and the perception of 4 men through semi-structured interviews and activist participatory observation and from situated knowledge. Results: Challenges for Tseltal women in living a healthy menstruation: a) precarious information about menstruation and experiences of fear and shame, b) economic difficulty to acquire menstrual management products, c) restriction of their activities, d) pain, disorders and lack of awareness of the menstrual cycle, e) limited access to medical services. We also analyze the water services, sanitation and hygiene systems at home and schools, and the acceptance of reusable cloth sanitary pads as an option adapted to the context. Conclusion: women have opened up about the topic for the first time, generating interest to know about menstruation, the body and menstrual cycle. They have successfully adopted the use of reusable cloth sanitary pads, given they save money, feel comfortable and are able to leave the house.
Copyright (c) 2025 Vega-Barrero et al. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Use of drug therapy and complementary therapy for glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes
Many patients turn to complementary treatments (CT) when they do not see a positive result with the use of pharmacological treatments (PT) given by the physician for type 2 diabetes (T2D). Objectives: To determine the influence of the use of pharmacological and complementary treatment on glycemic control in adults with T2D. Methodology: The study design was correlational-descriptive. In adults with DT2 using TF (n=95) and TC (n=95). The glycated hemoglobin test was performed, the CTFA-5-DT2 questionnaire was used and the regulations of the general health law on research were adhered to. Results: A relationship was found in the use of TF and TC with glycemic control (rs .390, p= <0.01; rs= .275, p= <0.01). A multiple linear regression model was performed, showing a statistical significance of .003 (F= 3.12), an explained variance of 8.2% (R2= 0.82); the significant variables explained were marital status (β= .27, p= .001) and CT use (β= -2.63, p= .009). Conclusions: The use of TF and TC does influence glycemic control, people with DT2 using TC showed better glycemic control compared to those using only TF.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mancillas-Berrelleza et al., https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Knowledge and practices on sustainable diets in families in Monteverde, Costa Rica 2021
Introduction: Education for sustainability aims to promote decision-making and actions aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To promote sustainable diets, a diagnostic analysis is key to identifying demographic characteristics, practices, knowledge, and opinions of the target population. This information is necessary for the formulation of a contextualized and timely educational strategy that can influence eating behaviors. In this sense, the objective of this study is to analyze the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of local families regarding sustainable diets. Methodology: Descriptive study with a mixed approach involving 23 families from the Monteverde district. Results: The majority of interviewees recognize the influence of food on the environment and the community's economy. However, there is a need to reinforce the role of consumers in the transformation of food systems, with the purpose of encouraging norms and values through critical thinking and reflection, which can motivate the adoption of more sustainable diets. In some cases, the knowledge did not reflect in the practices carried out. Conclusions: Considering the need for sustainability education to be contextualized, this diagnosis should be used as the starting point to inform about the principles of sustainable eating and facilitate the development of competencies, with the goal of helping participants create their own action plan to adopt a sustainable diet.
Copyright (c) 2025 Del Valle-Alvarado & Rodríguez González https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Non-motherhood in Chiapas. Indigenous women who are not mothers
Introduction: In Chiapas, one of the states in Mexico with the highest proportion of indigenous population, non-motherhood has historically been more frequent among indigenous women, but its exercise has not been sufficiently documented. Methodology: Based on the descriptive analysis of Census information, the socioeconomic and health conditions in which indigenous non-motherhood is carried out in Chiapas are explored. As well as the particularities that it could have with respect to non-motherhood exercised by non-indigenous women. Indigenous people of the entity and the country. Results: Indigenous non-motherhood in Chiapas was presented as a growing trend whose proportions exceeded state and national values in the four decades analyzed, finding singleness as a relevant element that is not explained by migratory factors or any population imbalance. It is practiced under adverse socioeconomic conditions. It is also observed when women have a disability. Conclusions: The coexistence of different forms and conditions of non-motherhood is observed: 1) with high education and economic activity, practiced out basically by non-indigenous women; 2) without schooling and without economic activity, more common among indigenous women, occurring in a higher proportion in Chiapas; and 3) without schooling and with economic activity, with relevant proportions among indigenous women, mainly from Chiapas. The relationship between the absence of children and disabilities shows an important aspect of exclusion among childless women that needs to be observed in greater detail in studies on non-motherhood in Mexico.
Copyright (c) 2025 Linares Bravo & Nazar Beutelspacher https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Predictive models of cardiovascular complications of hypertension
Introduction: The predictors of cardiovascular complications of hypertension can be diverse, highlighting older age, precarious social, economic and personal conditions, as well as body conditions, susceptible to modification with comprehensive health interventions. Objective: To predict cardiovascular complications of hypertension in users of a Peruvian public hospital using models. Methodology: The research was analytical, predictive, cross-sectional, with retrospective data collection. 303 patients who attended the Cajamarca Regional Hospital during 2022 were investigated. Sociodemographic data and data on cardiovascular complications of hypertension were obtained from the data stored by the hospital. Descriptive statistics included absolute and relative frequencies, confidence intervals, mean and dispersion measures, and predictive models were performed using binary logistic regression and Cohen's Kappa Index, with a statistical significance of p<0.05. Results: The most frequent cardiovascular complication was heart failure (49.5%). The model for heart failure predicts 70.6% and the years of diagnosis, occupation and marital status are included in the equation, for atrial fibrillation it predicts 82.2% and the equation includes age, sex, years of diagnosis, level of education and marital status and for angina pectoris it predicts 84.8% and the equation includes age, sex and years of diagnosis. Conclusions: The models created for the cardiovascular complications of hypertension have good predictive capacity, therefore, accurate and efficient performance in the predictor variables will allow favorable control of the complications of the disease.
Copyright (c) 2025 José Ander Asenjo-Alarcón, Karen Roxana Longa Ortiz, Luz Elita Vergara Cieza (Autor/a) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Inequalities in the work process of Brazilian primary health care teams: a rural-urban analysis based on PMAQ-AB data
Objective: To evaluate the work process of Primary Health Care teams in Brazil, based on the rural/urban typology defined by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics. Method: This is a cross-sectional evaluative study with a quantitative and analytical approach, based on secondary data from the third cycle of the National Program for Improving Access and Quality of Primary Care (PMAQ-AB), conducted between 2017 and 2018. A total of 37,350 Primary Health Care (PHC) teams (96.1% of those approved for participation) were analyzed. The study focused on two analytical axes: (1) territorialization and (2) team planning. Data were processed using Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA), which enabled the identification of patterns in the organization of work processes based on municipal typology. Results: The study revealed important disparities across municipal strata. Adjacent rural municipalities had the lowest percentage of teams with uncovered populations (21.0%), while urban and remote intermediate municipalities showed the highest rates (42.0% and 43.6%, respectively). Regarding planning, 15.1% of teams reported not conducting planning activities, with the lowest proportions found in remote municipalities. The MCA perceptual maps identified three main clusters, showing the concentration of positive organizational attributes in intermediate adjacent municipalities and weaker work processes in remote areas. Conclusion: The organization of PHC teams' work processes varies significantly according to the rural/urban classification of municipalities. These findings reinforce the need for territorialized policies and differentiated support strategies to strengthen PHC performance in diverse Brazilian contexts.
Maria do Socorro Castelo Branco de Oliveira Bastos
Copyright (c) 2025 Lemos et al. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0