American journal of preventive medicine
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The Veterans Health Administration health system uses a clinical reminder in the medical record to screen for military sexual trauma. For more than 6 million Veterans, this study assessed associations between military sexual trauma screen results and subsequent suicide mortality. ⋯ Study results are among the first population-based investigations to document sexual trauma as a risk factor for suicide mortality. Military sexual trauma represents a clinical indicator for suicide prevention in the Veterans Health Administration. Results suggest the importance of continued assessments regarding military sexual trauma and suicide risks and of collaboration between military sexual trauma-related programs and suicide prevention efforts. Moreover, military sexual trauma should be considered in suicide prevention strategies even among individuals without documented psychiatric morbidity.
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Although decline in muscle mass and quality and resulting declines in muscle strength are associated with aging, more research is needed in general populations to assess the utility of handgrip strength as an indicator of muscle strength and cardiovascular disease risk. ⋯ Results suggest that increased relative handgrip strength may be associated with a better profile of cardiovascular health biomarkers among U.S. adults. Relative grip strength, which both adjusts for the confounding of mass and assesses concomitant health risks of increased body size and low muscle strength, may be a useful public health measure of muscle strength.
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Little is known about whether cardiovascular benefits vary by activity type. Dance is a multidimensional physical activity of psychosocial nature. The study aimed to examine the association between dancing and cardiovascular disease mortality. ⋯ Moderate-intensity dancing was associated with a reduced risk for cardiovascular disease mortality to a greater extent than walking. The association between dance and cardiovascular disease mortality may be explained by high-intensity bouts during dancing, lifelong adherence, or psychosocial benefits.
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Among people aged ≥65 years, falling is the leading cause of emergency department visits. Emergency medical services (EMS) are often called to help older adults who have fallen, with some requiring hospital transport. Chief aims were to determine where falls occurred and the circumstances under which patients were transported by EMS, and to identify future fall prevention opportunities. ⋯ This study provides unique insight into fall circumstances and EMS transport activity. EMS personnel are in a prime position to provide interventions that can prevent future falls, or referrals to community-based fall prevention programs and services.