Search Results (541)

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a leading cause of mortality globally, contributing significantly to the burden on healthcare systems. Understanding the spatiotemporal patterns of NCD mortality is crucial for identifying vulnerable populations and regions at high risk. Objectives: Here, we evaluated the spatiotemporal patterns of NCD mortality in the Metropolitan Area of the Valley of Mexico (MAVM) from 2000 to 2019 for five International Classification of Diseases chapters (4, 5, 6, 9, and 10) at two spatial scales: the municipal level and metropolitan region. Methods: Mortality rates were calculated for the total population and stratified by sex and age groups at both spatial scales. In addition, the relative risk (RR) of mortality was estimated to identify vulnerable population groups and regions with a high risk of mortality, using women and the 25–34 age group as reference categories for population-level analysis, and the overall MAVM mortality rate as the reference for municipal-level analysis. Results: Mortality trends showed that circulatory-system diseases (Chapter 9) are emerging as a concerning health issue, with 45 municipalities showing increasing mortality trends, especially among older adults. Respiratory-system diseases (Chapter 10), mental and behavioral disorders (Chapter 5) and nervous-system diseases (Chapter 6) predominantly did not exhibit a consistent general mortality trend. However, upon disaggregating by sex and age groups, specific negative or positive trends emerged at the municipal level for some of these chapters or subgroups. Endocrine, nutritional, and metabolic diseases (Chapter 4) showed a complex pattern, with some age groups presenting increasing mortality trends, and 52 municipalities showing increasing trends overall. The RR showed men and older age groups (≥35 years) exhibiting higher mortality risks. The temporal trend of RR allowed us to identify spatial mortality hotspots mainly in chapters related to circulatory, endocrine, and respiratory diseases, forming four geographical clusters in Mexico City that show persistent high risk of mortality. Conclusions: The spatiotemporal analysis highlights municipalities and vulnerable populations with a consistently elevated mortality risk. These findings emphasize the need for monitoring NCD mortality patterns at both the municipal and metropolitan levels to address disparities and guide the implementation of health policies aimed at reducing mortality risk in vulnerable populations. Full article

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes and cancer drive demand for therapeutic functional foods. This study developed freeze-dried fermented camel milk (FCM) with Ajwa date pulp (ADP), evaluating its physical and functional properties, probiotic survival, and potential benefits for diabetes and cancer. To achieve this target, six FCM formulations were prepared using ABT-5 starter culture (containing Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Streptococcus thermophilus) with or without Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus B-1937 and ADP (12% or 15%). The samples were freeze-dried, and their functional properties, such as water activity, dispersibility, water absorption capacity, water absorption index, water solubility index, insolubility index, and sedimentation, were assessed. Reconstitution properties such as density, flowability, air content, porosity, loose bulk density, packed bulk density, particle density, carrier index, Hausner ratio, porosity, and density were examined. In addition, color and probiotic survivability under simulated gastrointestinal conditions were analyzed. Also, antidiabetic potential was assessed via α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition assays, while cytotoxicity was evaluated using the MTT assay on Caco-2 cells. The results show that ADP supplementation significantly improved dispersibility (up to 72.73% in FCM15D+L). These improvements are attributed to changes in particle size distribution and increased carbohydrate and mineral content, which facilitate powder rehydration and reduce clumping. All FCM variants demonstrated low water activity (0.196–0.226), indicating good potential for shelf stability. The reconstitution properties revealed that FCM powders with ADP had higher bulk and packed densities but lower particle density and porosity than controls. Including ADP reduced interstitial air and increased occluded air within the powders, which may minimize oxidation risks and improve packaging efficiency. ADP incorporation resulted in a significant decrease in lightness (L*) and increases in redness (a*) and yellowness (b*), with greater pigment and phenolic content at higher ADP levels. These changes reflect the natural colorants and browning reactions associated with ADP, leading to a more intense and visually distinct product. Probiotic survivability was higher in ADP-fortified samples, with L. acidophilus and B. bifidum showing resilience in intestinal conditions. The FCM15D+L formulation exhibited potent antidiabetic effects, with IC₅₀ values of 111.43 μg mL⁻¹ for α-amylase and 77.21 μg mL⁻¹ for α-glucosidase activities, though lower than control FCM (8.37 and 10.74 μg mL⁻¹, respectively). Cytotoxicity against Caco-2 cells was most potent in non-ADP samples (IC₅₀: 82.22 μg mL⁻¹ for FCM), suggesting ADP and L. rhamnosus may reduce antiproliferative effects due to proteolytic activity. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that ADP-enriched FCM is a promising functional food with enhanced probiotic viability, antidiabetic potential, and desirable physical properties. This work highlights the potential of camel milk and date synergies in combating some NCDs in vitro, suggesting potential for functional food application. Full article

In low- and middle-income countries, notably in rural agricultural populations exposed to environmental and occupational dangers, respiratory impairment and noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are major public health issues. This cross-sectional study examined the associations between lung function, functional capacity, and cardiovascular responses to the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) in 137 adults from San Pa Tong District, Northern Thailand. Lung function was assessed using spirometry, and participants were classified accordingly. Hemodynamic parameters, including blood pressure, heart rate, rate-pressure product, and oxygen saturation, were measured before and after the 6MWT. Participants with impaired lung function walked significantly shorter distances (p = 0.004), and walking distance was positively correlated with forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV₁). Logistic regression confirmed that walking distance independently predicted lung function impairment after adjusting for age and sex. Cardiovascular responses to exercise also varied significantly across demographic subgroups. These findings support the use of the 6MWT as a practical, cost-effective, and scalable method for detecting lung function impairments in resource-limited rural settings. To our knowledge, this is among the first studies to demonstrate the predictive value of the 6MWT for lung function impairment in a Southeast Asian agricultural population. Full article

Background: Small Island Developing States (SIDS) face high rates of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and a key structural driver includes SIDS’ heavy reliance on imported food. Yet, our knowledge about food sources in SIDS is limited. Methods: We systematically searched 14 peer-reviewed databases and 17 grey literature repositories, identifying 56 articles and 96 documents concerning food sources in SIDS. Our study aimed to map these sources while considering broader societal, cultural, and environmental aspects. Results: We found high heterogeneity of food sources beyond store-bought foods, highlighting the complexity of food landscapes in this context. To explore these food sources and their interconnections, we developed a classification including Aid, Buy, Grow, Share, State and Wild food sources, and offered contextually-sensitive insights into their variety (types), extent (relevance), nature (characteristics) and changes over time. We developed an interactive open-access evidence map that outlined the identified interconnections between food sources following our proposed classification. There are numerous interrelations between food sources, showing that pathways from food sourcing to consumption can be unexpected and complex. Conclusions: In 2014, SIDS governments collectively committed to ending malnutrition by 2030. A deeper understanding of food sourcing is essential to achieve this goal. Full article

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory conditions are the leading causes of death globally, largely driven by modifiable lifestyle factors. With growing interest in dietary strategies for NCDs prevention and management, functional foods like watercress (Nasturtium officinale) have attracted attention for their rich phytochemical content and potential health benefits. This narrative review synthesizes 88 sources published between 2019 and March 2025, exploring the effects of watercress bioactive compounds on major NCDs. Watercress is abundant in glucosinolates, isothiocyanates (especially phenethyl isothiocyanate), flavonoids, vitamins, and minerals. These compounds contribute to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic regulatory effects. Preclinical and clinical studies show that watercress supplementation may improve lipid profiles, reduce oxidative stress, and modulate inflammation in cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. It also appears to enhance insulin function and reduce blood glucose levels. In cancer models, watercress extracts exhibit antiproliferative, pro-apoptotic, and chemoprotective properties, with selective toxicity towards cancer cells and protective effects on normal cells. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of watercress as a dietary adjunct in NCDs prevention and management, supporting the need for further clinical research. Full article

Background/Objectives: Recent research indicates a global transition from healthy and balanced diets to unhealthy Westernized dietary patterns (WDPs). This transition is linked to increased rates of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), e.g., obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, often preceded by metabolic syndrome (MetS). Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop a diet quality index, termed Westernized Diet Index (WDI), to assess adherence to WDPs and its association with main cardiometabolic health issues, for which MetS and its components were chosen as representatives of NCDs. Methods: The development of the WDI was driven by a semi-systematic and comprehensive examination of the literature (n = 491 articles) that evaluated the influence of WDP components on health outcomes. The scoring algorithm involved multiple steps, assigning scores based on study design, sample size, and the direction of food effects on health outcomes. Results: The final developed index encompassed 30 food groups/items. It was revealed that soft drinks, processed foods, red meat, sodium, and hydrogenated fats had the most detrimental effects on health, significantly influencing the index’s coefficients. In contrast, dietary fiber, plant-based metabolites, vitamins, minerals, nuts/seeds, and fish had the most substantial beneficial impacts. Conclusions: The WDI aligns with the existing literature on the importance of specific food items and with other validated diet quality indices, e.g., the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) and Alternate Healthy Eating Index (AHEI). Thus, the WDI can provide evidence for clinicians and researchers in formulating evidence-based dietary guidelines as well as strategies for the prevention and treatment of diet-related health issues. However, further validation is proposed to verify the WDI’s capability across different contexts. Full article

The growing global prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is drawing an increasing amount of attention to the health-promoting potential of whole-grain dietary fibers. Whole grains are rich sources of both soluble dietary fiber (SDF) and insoluble dietary fiber (IDF), contributing distinct physicochemical properties and playing vital roles in promoting human health. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the dietary fiber compositions of various whole grains, including wheat, oats, barley, rye, corn, sorghum, and rice, highlighting their structural characteristics, physiochemical properties, and associated health benefits. The physicochemical properties of dietary fibers, such as solubility, water- and oil-holding capacity, viscosity, swelling ability, and bile-acid-binding capacity, contribute significantly to their technological applications and potential health benefits, particularly in the prevention of NCDs. Although there is growing evidence supporting their health benefits, global whole-grain intake remains below recommended levels. Therefore, promoting whole-grain intake and developing fiber-rich functional foods are essential for enhancing public health and preventing chronic diseases. Future research should focus on enhancing the bioavailability and functionality of whole-grain dietary fibers, optimizing the methods by which they are extracted, and exploring their potential applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Full article

There is a confirmed and ongoing need to encourage adherence to healthy dietary patterns in the general population in western societies, given their recognized positive impact in preventing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). A potentially very effective solution is the use of digital tools such as apps and web apps, which can reach a large number of people quickly. Still, to be effective, it is necessary to better understand how participant engagement in these interventions works, to identify the motivations that may lead them to drop out, and to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions. In our study, an innovative web app designed to encourage adherence to the Mediterranean diet (EATMED) was tested in an intervention study, evaluating adherence to the Mediterranean diet before and after the use of the web app in a cohort of people, compared to a control group, using the MEDI-lite questionnaire. The Health and Taste Attitude Scale questionnaire was also administered to all participants to assess interest in healthy foods and diets, as well as attitudes toward food. The study showed that the score of the Food as Reward subscale of the HTAS had a significant effect on dropout from the intervention study, and that the use of the app among participants who remained resulted in a two-point increase in adherence to the Mediterranean diet, according to the MEDI-lite questionnaire. These results indicate the effectiveness of the EATMED tool and provide useful insights into how to understand and mitigate dropout in digital nutrition interventions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Climate change is a major factor exacerbating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, neoplasms, respiratory diseases, and diabetes, especially in vulnerable Latin American regions. This study analyzes the impact of environmental exposures related to climate change on the NCD burden in eight Latin American countries by quantifying the disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) attributable to these factors. Using Global Burden of Disease (GBD) data (1990–2021), we performed multiple linear regression to assess associations between DALYs and environmental risk factors—air pollution (particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide), radon, lead, and extreme temperatures—in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, Peru, and Uruguay. The study included major NCDs, and the population was stratified by age and sex. Results: Ischemic heart disease was the leading cause of DALYs in most countries. Particulate matter pollution was the main environmental risk factor contributing to the NCD burden, mainly affecting cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Mexico showed the highest DALYs from particulate and ozone pollution; temperature and lead exposure also contributed in some countries. Nitrogen dioxide was the primary risk factor for asthma. Statistically significant relationships between environmental factors and DALYs were confirmed. Conclusions: Climate change-related exposures significantly increase the burden of NCDs in Latin America. Targeted interventions in industry, transportation, and energy, along with sustainable urban policies, are essential to mitigate health impacts and reduce disparities. Integrating environmental health into public policies can improve health outcomes amid ongoing climate challenges. Full article

Background: Chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a major global health challenge, with unhealthy diets contributing significantly to their burden. Metabolomics data offer new possibilities for identifying nutritional biomarkers, as demonstrated in short-term intervention studies. This study investigated associations between habitual dietary intake and urinary metabolites, a not well-studied area. Methods: Data were available from 496 participants of the population-based MEIA study. Linear and median regression models examined associations between habitual dietary intake and metabolites, adjusted for possible confounders. K-means clustering identified urinary metabolite clusters, and multinomial regression models were applied to analyze associations between food intake and metabolite clusters. Results: Using linear regression models, previously reported associations could be replicated, including citrus intake with proline betaine, protein intake with urea, and fiber intake with hippurate. Novel findings include positive associations of poultry intake with taurine, indoxyl sulfate, 1-methylnicotinamide, and trimethylamine-N-oxide. Milk substitutes were positively associated with urinary uracil, pseudouridine, 4-hydroxyhippurate, and 3-hydroxyhippurate, and inversely associated with quinic acid. Dietary fiber intake showed a positive association with 3-(3-hydroxyphenyl)-3-hydroxypropionic acid and a negative association with indoxyl sulfate. We identified sucrose and taurine as key metabolites differentiating metabolite clusters. Multinomial regression analysis confirmed significantly different dietary associations across clusters, particularly for fruits, processed meat, poultry, and alcoholic beverages. Conclusions: This study highlights established and novel food–metabolite associations, demonstrating the potential of urinary metabolomics for use as nutritional biomarkers in individuals from the general population. Full article

Neglecting preventive healthcare policies has contributed to the global surge in chronic diseases, increased hospitalizations, declining quality of care, and escalating costs. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs)—notably cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, and cancer—consume over 80% of healthcare expenditure and account for more than 60% of global deaths, which are projected to exceed 75% by 2030. Poor diets, sedentary lifestyles, regulatory loopholes, and underfunded public health initiatives are driving this crisis. Compounding the issue are flawed policies, congressional lobbying, and conflicts of interest that prioritize costly, hospital-based, symptom-driven care over identifying and treating to eliminate root causes and disease prevention. Regulatory agencies are failing to deliver their intended functions. For instance, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) broad oversight across drugs, devices, food, and supplements has resulted in inefficiencies, reduced transparency, and public safety risks. This broad mandate has allowed the release of unsafe drugs, food additives, and supplements, contributing to the rising childhood diseases, the burden of chronic illness, and over-medicalization. The author proposes separating oversight responsibilities: transferring authority over food, supplements, and OTC products to a new Food and Nutraceutical Agency (FNA), allowing the FDA to be restructured as the Drug and Device Agency (DDA), to refocus on pharmaceuticals and medical devices. While complete reform requires Congressional action, interim policy shifts are urgently needed to improve public health. Broader structural changes—including overhauling the Affordable Care Act, eliminating waste and fraud, redesigning regulatory and insurance systems, and eliminating intermediaries are essential to reducing costs, improving care, and transforming national and global health outcomes. The information provided herein can serve as a White Paper to help reform health agencies and healthcare systems for greater efficiency and lower costs in the USA and globally. Full article

Background/Objectives: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are strongly linked to beverage consumption. This study aimed to assess the average daily beverage intake of Saudi residents, energy intake from beverages, and the influence of socio-demographic factors, health behaviors, and health status on beverage intake. Methods: A nationally representative, cross-sectional study utilized stratified quota sampling to survey adults (≥18 years) across all 13 administrative regions of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected from April 2022 to December 2023 using the validated Arabic Beverage Frequency Questionnaire (ABFQ), assessing consumption patterns of 28 beverage types. Results: The study included 4385 participants (mean age: 36.1 ± 11.14 years, 65% male). Sweetened tea (28 mL/day), regular soft drinks (22.1 mL/day), and Saudi coffee (18 mL/day) were the most frequent beverages after water. Sweetened tea contributed to the highest average energy intake (33.2 ± 46.4 kcal/day). Consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) was higher among younger individuals (18–29 years: OR: 4.0, 95% CI [2.6–6.3]; 30–44 years: OR: 2.8, 95% CI [1.8–4.3]), males (OR:1.6, 95% CI [1.4–1.8]), and residents of specific regions [Al-Jawf (OR: 1.9, 95% CI [1.2–3.2]) and Jazan (OR: 3.2, 95% CI [2.2–4.7])]. Higher water intakes were associated with males (OR: 1.5, 95% CI [1.3–1.7]), higher education levels (OR: 1.4, 95% CI [1.2–1.8]), physically active (OR: 1.5, 95% CI [1.3–1.8]), and those overweight (OR: 1.6, 95% CI [1.2–2.3]) or obese (OR: 2, 95% CI [1.4–2.8]). Conclusions: This study provides a valuable insight into beverage consumption patterns among Saudi residents. The findings highlight the need for targeted public health interventions to promote healthier beverage choices, particularly among younger populations and those with lower socioeconomic status. Full article

Oral hygiene practices are vital for maintaining health, yet many adults do not engage in daily teeth cleaning. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and determinants of non-daily teeth cleaning among adults in Rwanda using data from the 2022 Rwanda Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) STEPS Survey which used a cross-sectional design and multistage cluster sampling. Weighted prevalence estimates and logistic regression models were used to examine associations between non-daily teeth cleaning and key demographic, socioeconomic, behavioral, and oral health factors. The prevalence of non-daily teeth cleaning was 33.1% (95% CI: 31.0–35.2). Rural residence (AOR = 2.5, 95% CI: 1.5–4.1), lower education (AOR = 0.3, 95% CI: 0.2–0.6), lower income (AOR = 2.0, 95% CI: 1.3–3.2), and not using toothpaste (AOR = 1.3, 95% CI: 1.0–1.7) were significantly associated with increased odds of non-daily teeth cleaning. These findings underscore the need for targeted oral health promotion strategies that address socioeconomic disparities and improve access to affordable hygiene products. Full article

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are critical signalling molecules, but their overproduction leads to oxidative stress (OS), a common denominator in the pathogenesis of numerous non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and aging. General antioxidant therapies have largely been unsuccessful, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of ROS amplification mechanisms to develop targeted interventions. This review proposes a unified, self-amplifying “vicious cycle” of inter-organelle crosstalk that drives pathological ROS elevation and cellular damage. We outline a pathway initiated by extracellular stressors that co-activate plasma membrane TRPM2 channels and NADPH oxidase-2. This synergy elevates cytoplasmic Ca²⁺, leading to lysosomal dysfunction and permeabilization, which in turn releases sequestered Zn²⁺. Mitochondrial uptake of this labile Zn²⁺ impairs electron transport chain function, particularly at Complex III, resulting in mitochondrial fragmentation, loss of membrane potential and a burst of mitochondrial ROS (mtROS). These mtROS diffuse to the nucleus, activating PARP-1 and generating ADPR, which further stimulates TRPM2, thereby perpetuating the cycle. This “circular domino effect” integrates signals generated across the plasma membrane (Ca²⁺), lysosomes (Zn²⁺), mitochondria (ROS) and nucleus (ADPR), leading to progressive organelle failure, cellular dysfunction, and ultimately cell death. Understanding and targeting specific nodes within this TRPM2-NOX2-Ca²⁺-Zn²⁺-mtROS-ADPR axis offers novel therapeutic avenues for NCDs by selectively disrupting pathological ROS amplification while preserving essential physiological redox signalling. Full article

Large-language-model (LLM) APIs demonstrate impressive reasoning capabilities, but their size, cost, and closed weights limit the deployment of knowledge-aware AI within biomedical research groups. At the other extreme, standard attention-based neural language models (SANLMs)—including encoder–decoder architectures such as Transformers, Gated Recurrent Units (GRUs), and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks—are computationally inexpensive. However, their capacity for semantic reasoning in noisy, open-vocabulary knowledge bases (KBs) remains unquantified. Therefore, we investigate whether compact SANLMs can (i) reason over hybrid OpenIE-derived KBs that integrate commonsense, general-purpose, and non-communicable-disease (NCD) literature; (ii) operate effectively on commodity GPUs; and (iii) exhibit semantic coherence as assessed through manual linguistic inspection. To this end, we constructed four training KBs by integrating ConceptNet (600k triples), a 39k-triple general-purpose OpenIE set, and an 18.6k-triple OpenNCDKB extracted from 1200 PubMed abstracts. Encoder–decoder GRU, LSTM, and Transformer models (1–2 blocks) were trained to predict the object phrase given the subject + predicate. Beyond token-level cross-entropy, we introduced the Meaning-based Selectional-Preference Test (MSPT): for each withheld triple, we masked the object, generated a candidate, and measured its surplus cosine similarity over a random baseline using word embeddings, with significance assessed via a one-sided t-test. Hyperparameter sensitivity (311 GRU/168 LSTM runs) was analyzed, and qualitative frame–role diagnostics completed the evaluation. Our results showed that all SANLMs learned effectively from the point of view of the cross entropy loss. In addition, our MSPT provided meaningful semantic insights: for the GRUs (256-dim, 2048-unit, 1-layer): mean similarity $\left({\mu }_{sts}\right)$ of 0.641 to the ground truth vs. 0.542 to the random baseline (gap 12.1%; $p<{10}^{-180}$). For the 1-block Transformer: ${\mu }_{sts}=0.551$ vs. $0.511$ (gap 4%; $p<{10}^{-25}$). While Transformers minimized loss and accuracy variance, GRUs captured finer selectional preferences. Both architectures trained within <24 GB GPU VRAM and produced linguistically acceptable, albeit over-generalized, biomedical assertions. Due to their observed performance, LSTM results were designated as baseline models for comparison. Therefore, properly tuned SANLMs can achieve statistically robust semantic reasoning over noisy, domain-specific KBs without reliance on massive LLMs. Their interpretability, minimal hardware footprint, and open weights promote equitable AI research, opening new avenues for automated NCD knowledge synthesis, surveillance, and decision support. Full article