Search Results (27)

Cancer health disparities represent profound inequalities in incidence, outcomes, and survivorship across populations. While traditionally examined through distinct lenses of either molecular biology or social epidemiology, these disparities arise from the complex interplay of genetic susceptibility, epigenetic dysregulation, and social determinants of health (SDoH). This review proposes that DNA damage and genomic instability serve as a critical mechanistic bridge, integrating exposures from the societal level to cellular dysfunction. We synthesize evidence demonstrating how SDoH—such as systemic inequities, environmental exposures, and chronic stress—converge with genetic and epigenetic factors to disproportionately increase DNA damage burden, impair repair mechanisms, and accelerate tumorigenesis in marginalized communities. Using the elevated gastrointestinal cancer rates among Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders (NH/PI) as a case study, we illustrate how historical, environmental, and socioeconomic factors interact with biological pathways to drive disparities. The review highlights key advances in DNA damage research—from somatic mutation theory to the modern understanding of chronic genomic stress—and explores how innovations in single-cell genomics, biomarker discovery, and computational modeling can unravel disparity etiologies. We argue that a translational framework linking social exposure data to molecular biomarkers of DNA damage is essential for moving beyond descriptive disparities to mechanistic understanding. Ultimately, addressing cancer equity requires interdisciplinary strategies that bridge molecular oncology, public health, and community-engaged research, targeting the root causes where social inequities become biologically embedded as genomic instability. Full article

Biotechnology is reshaping dental public health by providing new tools for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral diseases at scale. Salivary biomarkers enable non-invasive, early detection of caries, periodontitis, and oral cancer. Tissue engineering and regenerative approaches, driven by stem cell signaling and bioactive scaffolds, offer biologically integrated repair. Genomic discoveries now allow polygenic risk profiling to complement social determinants in identifying vulnerable groups, while novel biomaterials, probiotics, and vaccine research expand options for sustainable caries prevention. These innovations are underpinned by molecular mechanisms such as inflammatory signaling, stem cell differentiation pathways, and antimicrobial activity. Their translation into public health practice requires attention to affordability, regulation, equity, and workforce integration. Harnessed effectively, biotechnology can help shift oral health systems toward more preventive and equitable models of care. Full article

Background/Objectives: The proportion of middle-aged and elderly people in the total population is increasing, and it is of utmost importance to monitor their quality of life (QoL), which largely depends on mobility, health and mental state, diet, nutritional status (especially overweight and obesity). The population in Croatia is among the leading in terms of the proportion of overweight and obese people, therefore the aim is to study QoL and determine which aspects can potentially be mitigated by public health actions. Methods: In accordance with the available data from the SHARE study (Survey on Health, Aging and Retirement in Europe), data were taken from the most recently published—9th wave conducted in 2021/2022. In this study, the Croatian population older than 50 years is represented by 4687 respondents. Health-related parameters were monitored (cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, mental health, handgrip strength (HGS) as a biomarker in older people and body mass index) and quality of life (self-assessed quality of life (CASP, self-assessed health SPH, physical activity) and dietary habits. A logistic regression model was used to link HGS as a biomarker in older people with quality of life and health parameters. Results: There is an undeniable decline in social and physical activity with age; the proportion of people engaged in vigorous physical activity decreased from 47% in the 51–64 age group to only 5.4% in people over 85 years of age, while physical inactivity increased from 3% to 37.7%. Chronic diseases, especially hypertension, accumulate with age, while self-rated health worsens with age, as does mental health (the proportion of depressed people (according to the EURO-D scale) increased significantly from 21.1% in the 51–64 age group to 54.1% in those over 85 years of age). Results of multinomial logistic regression showed that sports (in)activity was consistently associated with a lower likelihood of reduced handgrip strength (OR = 1.94 for low strength, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Sports activities and social engagement are crucial for maintaining good handgrip strength. Higher BMI, lower education and adverse psychological states are risk factors for a weaker handgrip. These findings highlight the need for an integrated public health approach that promotes physical activity, balanced nutrition and mental and social well-being in the older population. Full article

The global rise in the elderly population inherently escalates the demand for health and social care. Ensuring cognitive performance for healthy brain aging presents significant challenges for researchers and health professionals promoting self-care behaviors. This article aims to provide a comprehensive and critical analysis of the latest research on healthy brain aging by employing a biopsychosocial framework. It integrates biological, psychological, and social dimensions to elucidate their collective influence on cognitive health in older adults. Methodologically, this article provides a narrative review of the existing literature. A diverse array of bibliographic resources was obtained from prominent electronic databases, including MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science, to ensure broad coverage of the topic. The search was designed to capture relevant studies published between 2010 and 2025, using key terms such as ‘aging’, ‘biomarker’, ‘neurodegeneration’, and ‘cognitive performance’. Following a rigorous selection process, two field specialists evaluated a total of 106 full-text articles to identify those that met the eligibility criteria, ultimately yielding 70 relevant studies. The findings reveal important connections between psychosocial and biological biomarkers and brain morphology, highlighting lifestyle factors—such as diet, exercise, and social engagement—as crucial for cognitive health. The article also underscores specific biomarkers relevant for assessing brain age and their relationship to neurodegenerative disorders. Notably, while biological markers like Aβ, tau, and α-synuclein (proteins that define the core molecular pathology of common neurodegenerative diseases) are present, they do not guarantee the onset of neurodegenerative diseases; psychosocial factors play an essential role in determining disease manifestation. In conclusion, these results support a holistic approach to healthy aging, which integrates psychosocial environments and lifestyle choices that enhance cognitive resilience. We propose further cross-sectional descriptive studies to better identify the biopsychosocial variables influencing cognitive performance and healthy brain aging, aiming to improve clinical practices and inform public health strategies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is experiencing a rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), projected to surpass infectious diseases as the leading cause of mortality. This shift reflects a complex public health challenge driven by changing dietary patterns and persistent social and gender inequities. Women of reproductive age are particularly vulnerable due to biological and sociocultural factors, with diet playing a central role in NCD development and maternal health. This scoping review explores dietary determinants of NCDs in this population and identifies evidence gaps to support context-specific, gender-responsive interventions. Methods: The review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar for studies published between January 2010 and May 2025. After removing duplicates, 577 articles were screened, and 19 met the inclusion criteria. Data were synthesized using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. An adapted conceptual framework informed by the ecological model was developed to illustrate the multilevel pathways linking dietary determinants to NCD outcomes. Results: Frequent consumption of ultra-processed foods, salty snacks, processed meats, and sugar-sweetened beverages was consistently associated with increased NCD risk. Central obesity was prevalent among nearly half of the women studied, and a high intake of sugary drinks was common across diverse populations. Among pregnant women, overweight was observed in approximately one-quarter of participants, despite the inadequate intake of protein and iron. Vitamin A deficiency was moderately prevalent, and urban residence was linked to a twofold increase in the coexistence of obesity and micronutrient deficiencies. These patterns were shaped by poverty, food insecurity, and the cultural norms influencing dietary behaviors and access to nutritious foods. Conclusion: Dietary determinants significantly contribute to the rising NCD burden among women of reproductive age in SSA, yet adolescent women remain underrepresented in research. Addressing these gaps through culturally sensitive, multisectoral interventions and biomarker-informed longitudinal studies is essential for guiding inclusive policies and sustainable health strategies for this vulnerable population. Full article

Background/Objectives: Multidisciplinary approaches spanning the physical, cognitive, and social domains of geriatric evaluation are essential to promote functional well-being and reduce the aversive consequences of aging. The main objective of the pilot study, “Multidomain Interventions to improve the COgnitive and fUNctional well-being of elderly individuals in residential sTructures” (I-COUNT), is to assess the feasibility of a 6-month multidomain intervention performed on older adults in Long-Term Care Facilities (LTCFs), compared with a group of residents following a traditional care approach. Methods: The intervention will involve two LTCFs in Italy and will include physical exercise and cognitive training, administered and monitored using wearable technologies, a nutritional program based on the Mediterranean diet enriched with selected functional foods, and the administration of the vaccinations recommended in the national vaccination plan. The I-COUNT study will assess the feasibility and acceptability of the defined protocol and provide information to determine the sample size for a definitive study. In relation to the potential health impact of multidomain interventions on older people living in LTCFs, the primary outcome will consider the change in microbiota composition assessed 3 months after the start of interventions, while secondary outcomes will include the evaluation of changes in selected biomarkers, physical performance, psychological health, cognitive functioning, and nutritional status at 6- and 9-month follow-up points. Conclusions: The I-COUNT study will allow us to assess the feasibility of delivering a multidomain intervention on elderly people. Exploratory findings on potential health effect will support the development of a larger-scale randomized controlled trial. Trial registration number: ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT06820710. Full article

Background: Environmental exposures, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), in conjunction with social and behavioral factors, can significantly impact liver health. This research investigates the combined effects of PFAS (perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), alcohol consumption, smoking, income, and education on liver function among the U.S. population, utilizing data from the 2017–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Methods: PFAS concentrations in blood samples were analyzed using online solid-phase extraction combined with liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), a highly sensitive and specific method for detecting levels of PFAS. Liver function was evaluated using biomarkers such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), total bilirubin, and the fatty liver index (FLI). Descriptive statistics and multivariable linear regression analyses were employed to assess the associations between exposures and liver outcomes. Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) was utilized to explore the nonlinear and interactive effects of these exposures. To determine the relative influence of each factor on liver health, Posterior Inclusion Probabilities (PIPs) were calculated. Results: Linear regression analyses indicated that income and education were inversely associated with several liver injury biomarkers, while alcohol use and smoking demonstrated stronger and more consistent associations. Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) further highlighted alcohol and smoking as the most influential predictors, particularly for GGT and total bilirubin, with posterior inclusion probabilities (PIPs) close to 1.0. In contrast, PFAS showed weaker associations. Regression coefficients were small and largely non-significant, and PIPs were comparatively lower across most liver outcomes. Notably, education had a higher PIP for ALT and GGT than PFAS, suggesting a more protective role in liver health. People with higher education levels tend to live healthier lifestyles, have better access to healthcare, and are generally more aware of health risks. These factors can all help reduce the risk of liver problems. Overall mixture effects demonstrated nonlinear trends, including U-shaped relationships for ALT and GGT, and inverse associations for AST, FLI, and ALP. Conclusion: These findings underscore the importance of considering both environmental and social–behavioral determinants in liver health. While PFAS exposures remain a long-term concern, modifiable lifestyle and structural factors, particularly alcohol, smoking, income, and education, exert more immediate and pronounced effects on hepatic biomarkers in the general population. Full article

Background: Adequate levels of leisure-time exercise (LTE) are associated with mental health benefits. Despite increased research in recent years through randomized controlled trials (RCTs), a systematic literature review summarizing these findings is lacking. Here, we examined publication trends, impact, and research gaps regarding LTE’s effects on mental health in the form of a bibliometric analysis. Methods: Five electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Ovid Medline, and the Cumulative Index for Nursing and Allied Health Literature) were searched from their inception until 20 November 2024. Citations were independently screened by two authors and included based on pre-determined eligibility criteria. Bibliometric analysis was conducted using SciVal and VOSviewer under five themes: (1) descriptive analysis, (2) network analysis, (3) thematic mapping, (4) co-citation and co-occurrence analysis, and (5) bibliometric coupling. Results: The systematic search identified 5792 citations, of which 78 RCTs met the inclusion criteria. Only one study was conducted in a low- or middle-income country. Sixty-four percent of studies were published in quartile-one journals. Most studies were conducted in the United States, followed by Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. National collaborations yielded the highest citation rates, reflecting the influence of cultural and social norms on exercise and mental health. Research gaps were identified with regards to the validity of mental health measures, the paucity of data from low- and middle-income countries, and emerging research sources. Conclusions: This bibliometric analysis highlights the existing evidence on LTE’s impact on mental health and identifies areas for future research and policy. Trials exploring valid mental health outcomes, biomarkers such as mood and oxidative stress, and collaborative research are needed, particularly in underrepresented regions of the world. Full article

Background: Chronic stress, driven by the persistent activation of the body’s stress response system—including the sympathetic nervous system and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis—has far-reaching effects on both physical and mental health. This study examines the combined effects of social and behavioral factors on a latent variable consisting of stress and depressive symptoms, using a comprehensive framework to explore the complex interactions of these factors. Methods: Leveraging data from the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), we operationalized allostatic load—a measure of cumulative physiological stress—through 10 biomarkers spanning cardiovascular, inflammatory, and metabolic systems. Depressive symptoms were measured via the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and a latent variable capturing the shared variance between stress and depressive symptoms was derived using factor analysis. To assess the influence of social (income and education) and behavioral (alcohol consumption and smoking) factors on this latent variable, we employed Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR), allowing us to examine potential non-linear and interactive effects among these predictors. Results: Our results revealed a significant positive association between allostatic load and depressive symptoms across the sample, regardless of ethnic background. Alcohol consumption emerged as a key behavioral factor, with significant positive associations with stress. Conversely, education showed a protective effect, with higher education levels associated with decreased stress and depressive symptoms. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of addressing both social determinants and behavioral risk factors in mitigating the cumulative impacts of stress and depressive symptoms. By highlighting the roles of alcohol consumption and education, this study provides insights that can inform public health strategies aimed at promoting resilience and reducing stress-related health disparities. Full article

Fungal infections are a significant global public health challenge because of their widespread occurrence, morbidity, and profound social and economic consequences. Antifungal resistance is also an increasing concern, posing a substantial risk to public health. There is a growing interest in searching for new antifungal drugs isolated from natural sources. This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal activity of novel mollusk fractions against fungal strains resistant to nystatin and amphotericin B. In addition, the role of oxidative stress in the mechanism of damage was determined. The mucus from the garden snail Cornu aspersum (MCa/1-20) and the hemolymph fraction from the marine snail Rapana venosa (HLRv/3-100) were obtained and characterized via 12% sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and mass spectrometric -analyses. The results demonstrate that the spores and biomass of both mollusk fractions have a significant fungicidal effect against Penicillium griseofulvum, and Aspergillus niger. Compared to the control group, the release of intracellular proteins and reducing sugars was significantly increased in the treated groups. The data showed increased levels of oxidative stress biomarkers (lipid peroxidation and oxidatively damaged proteins) and a downregulated antioxidant enzyme defense, corresponding to increased antifungal activity. To our knowledge, this is the first study evaluating oxidative stress as a factor in mollusk fractions’ antifungal activity. Full article

The first part of this review highlighted the evolving landscape of atherosclerosis, noting emerging cardiometabolic risk factors, the growing impact of exposomes, and social determinants of health. The prominent role of atherosclerosis in the bidirectional relationship between cardiovascular disease and cancer was also discussed. In this second part, we examine the complex interplay between multimorbid cardio-oncologic patients, cardiometabolic risk factors, and the harmful environments that lend a “syndemic” nature to these chronic diseases. We summarize management strategies targeting disordered cardiometabolic factors to mitigate cardiovascular disease and explore molecular mechanisms enabling more tailored therapies. Importantly, we emphasize the early interception of atherosclerosis through multifactorial interventions that detect subclinical signs (via biomarkers and imaging) to treat modifiable risk factors and prevent clinical events. A concerted preventive effort—referred to by some as a “preventome”—is essential to reduce the burden of atherosclerosis-driven chronic diseases, shifting from mere chronic disease management to the proactive promotion of “chronic health”. Full article

Background/Objectives: Comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) patients are at a significantly higher risk of adverse outcomes, including opioid use disorder, depression, suicidal behaviors, and death, yet limited treatment options exist for this population. This study aimed to build on previous research by incorporating drug target information into a novel deep learning model, T-DeepBiomarker, to predict adverse outcomes and identify potential therapeutic medications. Methods: We utilized electronic medical record (EMR) data from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC), analyzing 5565 PTSD + AUD patients. T-DeepBiomarker was developed by integrating multimodal data, including lab results, drug target information, comorbidities, neighborhood-level social determinants of health (SDoH), and individual-level SDoH (e.g., psychotherapy and veteran status). The model was trained to predict adverse events, including opioid use disorder, suicidal behaviors, depression, and death, within three months following any clinical encounter. Candidate medications targeting significant proteins were identified through literature reviews. Results: T-DeepBiomarker achieved high predictive performance with an AUROC of 0.94 for adverse outcomes in PTSD + AUD patients. Several medications, including OnabotulinumtoxinA, Dronabinol, Acamprosate, Celecoxib, Exenatide, Melatonin, and Semaglutide, were identified as potentially reducing the risk of adverse events by targeting significant proteins. Conclusions: T-DeepBiomarker demonstrates high accuracy in predicting adverse outcomes in PTSD + AUD patients and highlights candidate drugs with potential therapeutic effects. These findings advance pharmacotherapy for this high-risk population and identify medications that warrant further investigation. Full article

Background/Objectives: Extensive evidence suggests that exercise is physically and mentally beneficial for cancer survivors. This study reports on changes in self-reported stress, physiological biomarkers for stress (salivary cortisol), and HR-QOL constructs for fifty breast cancer survivors participating in one of three different exercise programs over 6 months. Methods: Fifty post-treatment breast cancer survivors were randomized to either therapeutic yoga-based exercise (YE), comprehensive exercise (CE) (aerobic, resistance, flexibility), or choosing (C) their own exercise activities. Participants completed the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Medical Outcomes Short-Form 36^® (SF-36), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Five samples of salivary cortisol were collected on two consecutive days. The 10 samples were used to calculate the diurnal rhythm slope. Outcome measures were repeated after six months. Results: All groups improved in HR-QOL measures of PSS; PSQI sleep quality components of latency and daytime functioning; and five of the ten SF-36 scales (Mental Component Scale, Social Functioning subscale, Mental Health subscale, Physical Component Scale, Physical Functioning subscale). Although the CE group observed the most favorable change in cortisol (−0.183), where cortisol slope changes approached significance (p = 0.057), but no significant decrease in cortisol between groups were noted. Conclusions: Our results suggest that it is the engagement of, rather than the specific type of exercise, which is associated with improved HR-QOL. However, longer-term studies with better adherence monitoring and larger sample sizes are needed to better determine clinical impact. Full article

Background/Objectives: Women of childbearing age not only reside in agricultural communities but also form an integral part of the agricultural labor force. Limited research investigates the impact of prenatal fungicide exposure on infant health, specifically ethylenebisdithiocarbamates and their toxic by-product, ethylenethiourea (ETU), particularly in occupational settings. This paper describes the background, aims, protocol, and baseline sample characteristics for the SEMILLA study, which investigates prenatal ETU exposure, neonatal thyroid function, infant growth, and neurobehavioral development in an agricultural region of Ecuador. Methods: This cohort study follows pregnant women and their infants up to 18 months of age, incorporating urinary biomarkers and survey data on ETU exposure and infant growth and neurodevelopmental measures. Data collection includes detailed questionnaires, scales, and physical examinations on maternal and infant health and development, as well as environmental factors. Descriptive statistics on key characteristics of the study population at baseline are presented. Results: SEMILLA enrolled 409 participants (72% enrollment rate): 111 agricultural workers (mostly floricultural), 149 non-agricultural workers, and 149 non-workers. Baseline characteristics show comparability between work sector groups, with some economic differences. Conclusions: SEMILLA will provide key evidence on prenatal fungicide exposure and infant development and encompass comprehensive multistage data collection procedures in pregnancy and infancy, focusing on structural and social determinants of health as well as individual-level chemical exposures. The community-based approach has proven essential, even amid challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. The medium-term objective is to inform sustainable interventions promoting maternal and child health, with a long-term goal to reduce community exposures and improve worker health policies, particularly for women and pregnant workers. Full article

Carotid stenosis is characterized by the progressive narrowing of the carotid arteries due to the formation of atherosclerotic plaque, which can lead to stroke and death as major complications. Numerous biomarkers allow for its study and characterization, particularly those related to “omics” sciences. Through the most common research databases, we report representative studies about carotid stenosis biomarkers based on genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics in a narrative review. To establish a priority among studies based on their internal validity, we used a quality assessment tool, the Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review Articles (SANRA). Genes, transcriptomes, proteins, and metabolites can diagnose the disease, define plaque connotations, predict consequences after revascularization interventions, and associate carotid stenosis with other patient comorbidities. It also emerged that many aspects determining the patient’s psychological and social sphere are implicated in carotid disease. In conclusion, when taking the multidisciplinary approach that combines human sciences with biological sciences, it is possible to comprehensively define a patient’s health and thus improve their clinical management through precision medicine. Full article