Do Personal Resources Influence Health-Related Quality of Life for People Receiving Hemodialysis Treatment in Latin America?

We used the Kidney Disease Quality of Life Survey and Chronic Illness Resources Survey to determine the personal resources that influence health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of 128 individuals receiving treatment for end-stage renal disease in Antofagasta, Chile. The results showed that personal and community resources protect against disability and physical deterioration among individuals receiving hemodialysis. Further, these resources had a direct influence on HRQOL, especially in relation to the burden of the disease and for those who are not in paid employment. Our findings show the importance of the availability and use of measures required for the community to improve HRQOL, and to protect the physical health of people undergoing hemodialysis.

Beverage consumption, and its associations with BMI and lifestyle factors in rural community participants

Beverages with little nutritional value, such as carbonated beverages, may negatively impact nutrition and have long-term health implications, including but not limited to obesity. This study examined the risks for beverage consumption choices and intake of participants living in a rural community. Multiple questionnaires adapted from the Chronic Illness Resources Survey, the Harvard Food Frequency Questionnaire, Michigan Alcohol Screening Test (MAST), the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test Questionnaire and 24 Hour Food Recall were administered to a cross sectional sample (n=706) using trained interviewers. The mean age of participants was 23.67 years of age (SD +/- 7.32) with 49.7% females and 50.1% males. Results indicated that carbonated beverages and alcohol consumption were related to increased caloric intake and Body Mass Index (BMI) in the sample (p< 0.05). Calories derived from carbonated beverages and alcohol consumption in younger persons (below age 35) exceeded (p < 0.5) weight and age recommendations for intake as determined by the National Research Council. Older persons (34-53 and > 53 years old), both male and female, drank fewer carbonated beverages and consumed significantly (p < .05) more caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea and hot chocolate. The study results suggest an increased need for research into beverage consumption and its relationship to BMI.