The Burden of Out-of-Pocket Expenditure Related to Gynaecological Cancer in Malaysia.

This study aimed to estimate the economic burden on gynaecological cancer patients and their households, in terms of out-of-pocket expenditure, catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) and poverty impact. A cross-sectional study was conducted at an academic tertiary-care health centre in an upper-middle-income country. Data were obtained via structured interviews of 120 gynaecological cancer patients alongside review of medical charts.

A survey of general practitioners' knowledge and clinical practice in relation to valvular heart disease.

Introduction: General practice has a key role in diagnosing patients with valvular heart disease (VHD) and referring them to appropriate services.

Methods: An anonymous survey was conducted to assess the knowledge and clinical practice behaviour of Irish general practitioners (GPs) in relation to VHD. In addition to demographic data, the survey captured information in the following domains: knowledge of VHD prevalence, knowledge of contemporary VHD treatments, barriers to diagnosis, and referral patterns.

COVID-19 in adult patients with pre-existing chronic cardiac, respiratory and metabolic disease: a critical literature review with clinical recommendations.

Background: A high burden of severe disease and death from the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been consistently observed in older patients, especially those with pre-existing medical co-morbidities. The global pandemic lockdown has isolated many patients with chronic illnesses from their routine medical care. This narrative review article analyses the multitude of issues faced by individuals with underlying medical conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Potential cardiovascular implications of electronic cigarettes: how evident is the evidence?

With increasing use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) worldwide, both leisurely and as a smoking cessation aid, the potential health implications of e-cigarettes have generated concerns. Poor oral health associated with e-cigarette use may put additional strain on cardiovascular health. Acute effects of e-cigarette exposure on cardiovascular health are well established.

Immunity passports to travel during the COVID-19 pandemic: controversies and public health risks.

As countries emerge from pandemic lockdown, many countries are relaxing international travel restrictions. Commercially available serologic tests for anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies are being performed. The concept of an 'immunity passport' has gained popularity, whereby evidence of SARS-CoV-2 antibody production would signal immunity to reinfection.

Experiences and Attitudes of International Travelers with Cardiovascular Disease: A Qualitative Analysis.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death among international travelers. It is unknown whether CVD is a barrier to international travel. The purpose of this study was to describe the travel experiences of a cohort of individuals with CVD, to identify their perceived barriers to travel, and to generate recommendations for CVD travelers, medical practitioners, and the travel industry.