Abstract Objective To determine if breastfeeding for at least the first six months of life is associated with overweight and obesity in children 2 to 5 years old. Method Cross sectional analysis of data from national demographic and health surveys conducted in Bolivia, Colombia and Peru. Overweight and obesity were defined using World Health Organization standard definitions. Odds ratios (OR) were calculated using multinomial logistic regression. Results The prevalence of obesity in children 2 to 5 years old was 10.4% (95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 8.2-12.6) in Bolivia, 4.9% in Colombia (95%CI: 4.0-5.8), and 6.4% (95%CI: 5.2-8.0) in Peru. Prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding for at least the first 6 months in the study population was 89.9% (95%CI: 87.8-91.9) in Bolivia, 73.9% (95%CI: 72.2-75.6) in Colombia, and 92.8% (95%CI: 91.2-92.4) in Peru. Exclusive breastfeeding was associated with a decreased risk of obesity in children as compared to no breastfeeding or breastfeeding for less than 6 months in Bolivia (OR = .30; 95%CI: .16-.57) and a marginal association in Colombia (OR = .71; 95%CI: .47-1.06) and Peru (OR = .49; 95%CI: 0.23-1.04). No association between breastfeeding and overweight was found. Conclusion Exclusive breastfeeding for at least the first six months of life decreases the risk of obesity in children 2 to 5 years old in Bolivia. A similar but weaker pattern was observed for children in Colombia and Peru.

Resumen Objetivo Determinar si la lactancia materna ≥ 6 meses se asocia con menor sobrepeso y obesidad en niños/as de 2 a 5 años de edad. Método Análisis transversal de datos de encuestas nacionales de demografía y salud de Bolivia, Colombia y Perú. Se definieron sobrepeso y obesidad según los criterios de la Organización Mundial de la Salud. Se calculó la odds ratio (OR) utilizando regresión logística multinomial. Resultados La prevalencia de obesidad en niños/as de 2 a 5 años fue del 10,4% (intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC95%]: 8,2-12,6) en Bolivia, del 4,9% (IC95%: 4,0-5,8) en Colombia y del 6,4% (IC95%: 5,2-8,0) en Perú. La lactancia materna ≥ 6 meses en la población estudiada fue del 89,9% (IC95%: 87,8-91,9) en Bolivia, del 73,9% (IC95%: 72,2-75,6) en Colombia y del 92,8% (IC95%: 91,2-94,4) en Perú. Se encontró evidencia de asociación entre lactancia materna ≥ 6 meses y menor posibilidad de obesidad en comparación con no lactancia o lactancia < 6 meses para Bolivia (OR = 0,30; IC95%: 0,16-0,57), y una asociación marginal para Colombia (OR = 0,71; IC95%: 0,47-1,06) y Perú (OR = 0,49; IC95%: 0,23-1,04). No hubo evidencia de asociación entre lactancia materna y sobrepeso. Conclusión La lactancia materna ≥ 6 meses está asociada con una menor posibilidad de tener obesidad en niños/as de 2 a 5 años en Bolivia. Este patrón fue similar, pero marginal, para Colombia y Perú.

Abstract Objective To determine if breastfeeding for at least the first six months of life is associated with overweight and obesity in children 2 to 5 years old. Method Cross sectional analysis of data from national demographic and health surveys conducted in Bolivia, Colombia and Peru. Overweight and obesity were defined using World Health Organization standard definitions. Odds ratios (OR) were calculated using multinomial logistic regression. Results The prevalence of obesity in children 2 to 5 years old was 10.4% (95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 8.2-12.6) in Bolivia, 4.9% in Colombia (95%CI: 4.0-5.8), and 6.4% (95%CI: 5.2-8.0) in Peru. Prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding for at least the first 6 months in the study population was 89.9% (95%CI: 87.8-91.9) in Bolivia, 73.9% (95%CI: 72.2-75.6) in Colombia, and 92.8% (95%CI: 91.2-92.4) in Peru. Exclusive breastfeeding was associated with a decreased risk of obesity in children as compared to no breastfeeding or breastfeeding for less than 6 months in Bolivia (OR = .30; 95%CI: .16-.57) and a marginal association in Colombia (OR = .71; 95%CI: .47-1.06) and Peru (OR = .49; 95%CI: 0.23-1.04). No association between breastfeeding and overweight was found. Conclusion Exclusive breastfeeding for at least the first six months of life decreases the risk of obesity in children 2 to 5 years old in Bolivia. A similar but weaker pattern was observed for children in Colombia and Peru.

Resumen Objetivo Determinar si la lactancia materna ≥ 6 meses se asocia con menor sobrepeso y obesidad en niños/as de 2 a 5 años de edad. Método Análisis transversal de datos de encuestas nacionales de demografía y salud de Bolivia, Colombia y Perú. Se definieron sobrepeso y obesidad según los criterios de la Organización Mundial de la Salud. Se calculó la odds ratio (OR) utilizando regresión logística multinomial. Resultados La prevalencia de obesidad en niños/as de 2 a 5 años fue del 10,4% (intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC95%]: 8,2-12,6) en Bolivia, del 4,9% (IC95%: 4,0-5,8) en Colombia y del 6,4% (IC95%: 5,2-8,0) en Perú. La lactancia materna ≥ 6 meses en la población estudiada fue del 89,9% (IC95%: 87,8-91,9) en Bolivia, del 73,9% (IC95%: 72,2-75,6) en Colombia y del 92,8% (IC95%: 91,2-94,4) en Perú. Se encontró evidencia de asociación entre lactancia materna ≥ 6 meses y menor posibilidad de obesidad en comparación con no lactancia o lactancia < 6 meses para Bolivia (OR = 0,30; IC95%: 0,16-0,57), y una asociación marginal para Colombia (OR = 0,71; IC95%: 0,47-1,06) y Perú (OR = 0,49; IC95%: 0,23-1,04). No hubo evidencia de asociación entre lactancia materna y sobrepeso. Conclusión La lactancia materna ≥ 6 meses está asociada con una menor posibilidad de tener obesidad en niños/as de 2 a 5 años en Bolivia. Este patrón fue similar, pero marginal, para Colombia y Perú.

The aim of this study was to determine the differences in arch length, inter-canine distance, inter-premolar distance, intermolar distance and arch shape between dental discrepancies (crowding and spacing) in a sample of dental casts from the Afro-Colombian population of San Basilio de Palenque. An analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted on a convenience sample of 63 subjects aged 11 to 57years, of Afro-Colombian origin, with full dentition from first molar to first molar, without extensive caries or restorations, and excluding casts with defects due to loss. The differences between arch (upper and lower) variables were analyzed according to dental discrepancies. Plaster models digitalized with a TR1OS3 Mono scanner with exactitude (6.9 ± 0.9 pm) and precision (4.5 ± 0.9 pm) were analyzed with Orthonalyzer software. Statistical analyses were done on SPSS software (Version 20 for Windows) and Real Statistics. Spacing discrepancy of68.25% was found for upper arch and 66.66% for lower arch; crowding discrepancy of 19.04% for upper arch and 20.63% for lower arch, and an adequate ratio of 12.69% for both arches. No statistically significant difference (p>0.05) was found between arch parameters except for inter-premolar distance on the lower arch. The most frequent arch shape in the population was oval for both upper arch, with 76.19%, and lower arch, with 71.42%. Tooth size was larger in males than females but the difference was not statistically significant.

El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar las diferencias en longitud de arco, distancia intercanina, interpremolar, intermolar y la forma de arco entre discrepancias dentales (apiñamiento y espaciamiento), en una muestra de modelos dentales de la población afrocolombiana de San Basilio de Palenque. Se realizó un estudio analítico transversal, en una muestra por conveniencia de 63 sujetos con un rango de edad entre 11 y 57 años, de origen afrocolombiano, quienes tuvieron dentición completa de primer molar a primer molar, sin caries extensas, ni restauraciones; se excluyeron los modelos con defectos por el vaciado. Se analizaron las diferencias entre las variables de los maxilares (superior e inferior) con las discrepancias dentales. Se utilizaron modelos de yeso que fueron digitalizados con el escánerTR1OS3 Mono con una exactitud de (6.9 ± 0.9 pm) y una precisión de (4.5 ± 0.9 pm)y analizados con el software Orthonalyzer. Los análisis estadísticos se llevaron a cabo utilizando el software SPSS (Versión 20 para Windows) y Real Statistics. Se encontró una discrepancia de espaciamiento de un 68,25% para el arco superior y 66,66% en el arco inferior; y una discrepancia de apiñamiento en el arco superior de 19,04% e inferior de 20,63% y una relación adecuada de 12,69% para los dos arcos. No se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p>0.05) en los parámetros de arco a excepción de la distancia interpremolar del arco inferior. La forma de arco más frecuente en la población fue ovalada tanto en el arco superior con un 76,19% como en el arco inferior con un 71,42%. En cuanto al tamaño dental, se presentó mayor tamaño en los hombres que en las mujeres, pero este no fue estadísticamente significativo.

Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the consumption of ultra-processed food and drink products and its association with the nutrient profile of the Colombian diet in 2005. Materials and methods: Food consumption based on 24-hour dietary records from 38 643 men and women was classified into four NOVA groups according to the extent and purpose of food processing. Results: Ultra-processed food and drink products represented 15.9% of the total energy daily intake, compared to 63.3% from minimally processed food, 15.8% from processed culinary ingredients, and 4.9% from processed food. Non-ultra-processed food items had a healthier nutritional profile compared to ultra-processed items in terms of contribution to total calories from protein, carbohydrates, total fat, saturated fat, free sugar, fiber and energy density. Conclusions: Ultra-processed food products have a less healthy nutrient profile than non-ultra-processed ones. An increase in the consumption of these foods must be prevented within Colombia.

Resumen: Objetivo: Evaluar el consumo de alimentos y bebidas ultraprocesadas y su asociación con el perfil nutricional dentro de la Encuesta Nacional de Nutrición de 2005 en Colombia. Material y métodos: El consumo de alimentos basados en registros alimentarios de 24 horas de 38 643 individuos se clasificó en cuatro grupos de NOVA. Resultados: Los productos de alimentos y bebidas ultraprocesados representaron 15.9% de la ingesta diaria total de energía, en comparación con 63.3% de los alimentos mínimamente procesados, 15.8% de los ingredientes culinarios procesados y 4.9% de los procesados. Los alimentos mínimamente procesados tenían un perfil nutricional más saludable en comparación con los artículos ultraprocesados en términos de contribución a las calorías totales, de proteínas, carbohidratos, grasa total, grasa saturada, azúcar libre, densidad de fibra y densidad de energía. Conclusiones: Los alimentos ultraprocesados tienen un perfil nutricional menos saludable que los alimentos no procesados.

Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the consumption of ultra-processed food and drink products and its association with the nutrient profile of the Colombian diet in 2005. Materials and methods: Food consumption based on 24-hour dietary records from 38 643 men and women was classified into four NOVA groups according to the extent and purpose of food processing. Results: Ultra-processed food and drink products represented 15.9% of the total energy daily intake, compared to 63.3% from minimally processed food, 15.8% from processed culinary ingredients, and 4.9% from processed food. Non-ultra-processed food items had a healthier nutritional profile compared to ultra-processed items in terms of contribution to total calories from protein, carbohydrates, total fat, saturated fat, free sugar, fiber and energy density. Conclusions: Ultra-processed food products have a less healthy nutrient profile than non-ultra-processed ones. An increase in the consumption of these foods must be prevented within Colombia.

Resumen: Objetivo: Evaluar el consumo de alimentos y bebidas ultraprocesadas y su asociación con el perfil nutricional dentro de la Encuesta Nacional de Nutrición de 2005 en Colombia. Material y métodos: El consumo de alimentos basados en registros alimentarios de 24 horas de 38 643 individuos se clasificó en cuatro grupos de NOVA. Resultados: Los productos de alimentos y bebidas ultraprocesados representaron 15.9% de la ingesta diaria total de energía, en comparación con 63.3% de los alimentos mínimamente procesados, 15.8% de los ingredientes culinarios procesados y 4.9% de los procesados. Los alimentos mínimamente procesados tenían un perfil nutricional más saludable en comparación con los artículos ultraprocesados en términos de contribución a las calorías totales, de proteínas, carbohidratos, grasa total, grasa saturada, azúcar libre, densidad de fibra y densidad de energía. Conclusiones: Los alimentos ultraprocesados tienen un perfil nutricional menos saludable que los alimentos no procesados.

Ultra-processed products are characterized by high contents of sugar, saturated fat and sodium. These products are entering the Colombian market through free trade agreements. One concern related to their consumption is the impact on weight gain and comorbidities associated with overweight and obesity, as well as changes in cultural habits and food sovereignty Scientific evidence has documented that consumption of ultra processed products contributes to chronic disease, thus increasing health care costs of treatment and rehabilitation. We must implement public policies that protect and inform the consumer, increasing the access and the right to a healthy diet, while reducing consumption of ultra-processed products such as sugar sweetened beverages and snacks. Inter-sectorial strategies are needed to face the potential purchasing and consumption patterns changes, promoting the development of food systems that recognize local dynamics of production. Increase control over the type and quality of ultra-processed products that are entering the country, and promote actions, along with food and nutrition education are also needed.

Los alimentos ultra-procesados se caracterizan por su alto contenido de azúcares, grasas saturadas y sodio. Estos alimentos están ingresando a Colombia por los Tratados de Libre Comercio (TLC). Una preocupación de su consumo es el impacto en la ganancia de peso progresiva y las comorbilidades asociadas al sobrepeso y la obesidad, así como el cambio de hábitos culturales y la soberanía alimentaria. La evidencia científica destaca que estos alimentos pueden generar enfermedades crónicas lo que incrementa los costos sanitarios debido al tratamiento y rehabilitación. Es necesario formular políticas públicas que protejan y orienten al consumidor, facilitando el acceso y el derecho a una alimentación saludable y mitigando el consumo de productos ultra-procesados como las bebidas azucaradas y los empaquetados. Se requieren estrategias y actores intersectoriales para hacer frente a los posibles cambios de compra y consumo, promover el desarrollo de sistemas alimentarios que reconozcan las dinámicas locales de producción. Realizar vigilancia y control sobre los productos ultra-procesados que ingresan al país y promover acciones de educación alimentaria y nutricional.

OBJETIVO Estimar a prevalência de programas de promoção da saúde nas unidades básicas de saúde no Brasil. MÉTODOS Estudo transversal descritivo realizado por meio de entrevistas telefônicas com coordenadores de unidades básicas de saúde. Do total de 42.486 unidades básicas de saúde cadastradas pelo Ministério da Saúde, 1.600 foram aleatoriamente selecionadas. As unidades foram amostradas nas cinco regiões do País de acordo com a proporção de unidades em cada região. Foi analisada a presença ou não de cinco programas de promoção da saúde: promoção de atividade física, cessação de tabagismo, cessação de uso de álcool e drogas ilícitas, alimentação saudável e ambiente saudável. Foram coletados dados sobre o tipo de ações desenvolvidas nos programas e a presença ou não da Estratégia de Saúde da Família na unidade. RESULTADOS A maioria das unidades básicas de saúde (62,0%) referiu ter pelo menos três programas de promoção da saúde e apenas 3,0% não tinha nenhum. A promoção do ambiente saudável e da alimentação saudável foram os programas mais prevalentes (77,0% e 72,0%, respectivamente), enquanto o controle do tabaco e do álcool foram referidos em 54,0% e 42,0% das unidades de saúde, respectivamente. A promoção de atividade física foi referida em menos de 40,0% das unidades e teve grande variação regional, com prevalência de 51,0% nas unidades do Sudeste e apenas 21,0% nas do Norte. A maioria das unidades de saúde (61,0%) oferecia Estratégia de Saúde da Família, porém não foi verificada maior prevalência de programas de promoção da saúde nessas unidades em relação às outras. CONCLUSÕES Este estudo mostrou que programas de promoção da saúde estão presentes na maioria das unidades básicas de saúde. Políticas públicas devem fortalecer a infraestrutura das unidades básicas de saúde e melhorar a capacitação dos trabalhadores de saúde para executar adequadamente a agenda de promoção de saúde do governo brasileiro.

OBJECTIVE Assessment of prevalence of health promotion programs in primary health care units within Brazil’s health system. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study based on telephone interviews with managers of primary care units. Of a total 42,486 primary health care units listed in the Brazilian Unified Health System directory, 1,600 were randomly selected. Care units from all five Brazilian macroregions were selected proportionally to the number of units in each region. We examined whether any of the following five different types of health promotion programs was available: physical activity; smoking cessation; cessation of alcohol and illicit drug use; healthy eating; and healthy environment. Information was collected on the kinds of activities offered and the status of implementation of the Family Health Strategy at the units. RESULTS Most units (62.0%) reported having in place three health promotion programs or more and only 3.0% reported having none. Healthy environment (77.0%) and healthy eating (72.0%) programs were the most widely available; smoking and alcohol use cessation were reported in 54.0% and 42.0% of the units. Physical activity programs were offered in less than 40.0% of the units and their availability varied greatly nationwide, from 51.0% in the Southeast to as low as 21.0% in the North. The Family Health Strategy was implemented in most units (61.0%); however, they did not offer more health promotion programs than others did. CONCLUSIONS Our study showed that most primary care units have in place health promotion programs. Public policies are needed to strengthen primary care services and improve training of health providers to meet the goals of the agenda for health promotion in Brazil.

OBJETIVO Estimar a prevalência de programas de promoção da saúde nas unidades básicas de saúde no Brasil. MÉTODOS Estudo transversal descritivo realizado por meio de entrevistas telefônicas com coordenadores de unidades básicas de saúde. Do total de 42.486 unidades básicas de saúde cadastradas pelo Ministério da Saúde, 1.600 foram aleatoriamente selecionadas. As unidades foram amostradas nas cinco regiões do País de acordo com a proporção de unidades em cada região. Foi analisada a presença ou não de cinco programas de promoção da saúde: promoção de atividade física, cessação de tabagismo, cessação de uso de álcool e drogas ilícitas, alimentação saudável e ambiente saudável. Foram coletados dados sobre o tipo de ações desenvolvidas nos programas e a presença ou não da Estratégia de Saúde da Família na unidade. RESULTADOS A maioria das unidades básicas de saúde (62,0%) referiu ter pelo menos três programas de promoção da saúde e apenas 3,0% não tinha nenhum. A promoção do ambiente saudável e da alimentação saudável foram os programas mais prevalentes (77,0% e 72,0%, respectivamente), enquanto o controle do tabaco e do álcool foram referidos em 54,0% e 42,0% das unidades de saúde, respectivamente. A promoção de atividade física foi referida em menos de 40,0% das unidades e teve grande variação regional, com prevalência de 51,0% nas unidades do Sudeste e apenas 21,0% nas do Norte. A maioria das unidades de saúde (61,0%) oferecia Estratégia de Saúde da Família, porém não foi verificada maior prevalência de programas de promoção da saúde nessas unidades em relação às outras. CONCLUSÕES Este estudo mostrou que programas de promoção da saúde estão presentes na maioria das unidades básicas de saúde. Políticas públicas devem fortalecer a infraestrutura das unidades básicas de saúde e melhorar a capacitação dos trabalhadores de saúde para executar adequadamente a agenda de promoção de saúde do governo brasileiro.

OBJECTIVE Assessment of prevalence of health promotion programs in primary health care units within Brazil’s health system. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study based on telephone interviews with managers of primary care units. Of a total 42,486 primary health care units listed in the Brazilian Unified Health System directory, 1,600 were randomly selected. Care units from all five Brazilian macroregions were selected proportionally to the number of units in each region. We examined whether any of the following five different types of health promotion programs was available: physical activity; smoking cessation; cessation of alcohol and illicit drug use; healthy eating; and healthy environment. Information was collected on the kinds of activities offered and the status of implementation of the Family Health Strategy at the units. RESULTS Most units (62.0%) reported having in place three health promotion programs or more and only 3.0% reported having none. Healthy environment (77.0%) and healthy eating (72.0%) programs were the most widely available; smoking and alcohol use cessation were reported in 54.0% and 42.0% of the units. Physical activity programs were offered in less than 40.0% of the units and their availability varied greatly nationwide, from 51.0% in the Southeast to as low as 21.0% in the North. The Family Health Strategy was implemented in most units (61.0%); however, they did not offer more health promotion programs than others did. CONCLUSIONS Our study showed that most primary care units have in place health promotion programs. Public policies are needed to strengthen primary care services and improve training of health providers to meet the goals of the agenda for health promotion in Brazil.

A rápida transição nutricional na América Latina tem como resultado o aumento pronunciado de sobrepeso e obesidade nas crianças. Evidência recente mostra que a publicidade de comidas e bebidas tem grande influência nas preferências alimentares das crianças. Essa população torna-se alvo da indústria de alimentos ultraprocessados e bebidas, produtos comercializados agressivamente. Nos países da América Latina, só existem regulamentos ineficientes para a publicidade de bebidas e alimentos ultraprocessados, e o discurso de auto-regulação prevalece sobre os regulamentos legais. Este comentário explora o papel importante da publicidade no desenvolvimento de padrões de dietas não saudáveis e na obesidade das crianças na América Latina, bem como a necessidade de ação governamental e participação social na resolução desse problema de saúde pública.

The rapid nutrition transition occurring in Latin America has resulted in a sharp increase of childhood overweight and obesity. Recent evidence has shown that food and beverage advertising has a great influence on children’s eating behavior. This population has become a key target market for the ultra-processed foods and beverages industry, which is marketing products in an aggressive way. Evidence shows that Latin American countries have poor regulation of ultra-processed foods and beverages advertising, where the discourse of self-regulation still prevails over statutory regulations. The following commentary explores how advertising might play an important role in developing unhealthy dietary patterns and obesity in Latin American children, as well as the urgent need for government action and the involvement of civil society to tackle this public health issue.

La rápida transición nutricional en América Latina tiene como resultado el aumento pronunciado de sobrepeso y obesidad en los niños. Evidencia reciente muestra que la publicidad de comidas y bebidas ejerce gran influencia en las preferencias alimenticias de los niños. Esta población se torna centro de atención para la industria de alimentos ultra procesados y bebidas, productos comercializados agresivamente. En los países de América Latina, sólo existen reglamentos ineficientes para la publicidad de bebidas y alimentos ultra procesados, y el discurso de auto regulación prevalece sobre los reglamentos legales. Este comentario explora el importante papel de la publicidad en el desarrollo de patrones de dietas no saludables y en la obesidad de niños en América Latina, así como la necesidad de acción gubernamental y participación social en la resolución de este problema de salud pública.

A rápida transição nutricional na América Latina tem como resultado o aumento pronunciado de sobrepeso e obesidade nas crianças. Evidência recente mostra que a publicidade de comidas e bebidas tem grande influência nas preferências alimentares das crianças. Essa população torna-se alvo da indústria de alimentos ultraprocessados e bebidas, produtos comercializados agressivamente. Nos países da América Latina, só existem regulamentos ineficientes para a publicidade de bebidas e alimentos ultraprocessados, e o discurso de auto-regulação prevalece sobre os regulamentos legais. Este comentário explora o papel importante da publicidade no desenvolvimento de padrões de dietas não saudáveis e na obesidade das crianças na América Latina, bem como a necessidade de ação governamental e participação social na resolução desse problema de saúde pública.

The rapid nutrition transition occurring in Latin America has resulted in a sharp increase of childhood overweight and obesity. Recent evidence has shown that food and beverage advertising has a great influence on children’s eating behavior. This population has become a key target market for the ultra-processed foods and beverages industry, which is marketing products in an aggressive way. Evidence shows that Latin American countries have poor regulation of ultra-processed foods and beverages advertising, where the discourse of self-regulation still prevails over statutory regulations. The following commentary explores how advertising might play an important role in developing unhealthy dietary patterns and obesity in Latin American children, as well as the urgent need for government action and the involvement of civil society to tackle this public health issue.

La rápida transición nutricional en América Latina tiene como resultado el aumento pronunciado de sobrepeso y obesidad en los niños. Evidencia reciente muestra que la publicidad de comidas y bebidas ejerce gran influencia en las preferencias alimenticias de los niños. Esta población se torna centro de atención para la industria de alimentos ultra procesados y bebidas, productos comercializados agresivamente. En los países de América Latina, sólo existen reglamentos ineficientes para la publicidad de bebidas y alimentos ultra procesados, y el discurso de auto regulación prevalece sobre los reglamentos legales. Este comentario explora el importante papel de la publicidad en el desarrollo de patrones de dietas no saludables y en la obesidad de niños en América Latina, así como la necesidad de acción gubernamental y participación social en la resolución de este problema de salud pública.

K-casein gene polymorphisms are of major importance in the dairy industry due to their association with different quality and productive traits (i.e., milk protein). Several methods for genotyping this gene have been proposed; however, none are focused on the simultaneous discrimination of nine K-casein variants. A strategy based on PCR-RFLP was designed to characterize nine K-casein variants (A, B, C, E, F², G, H, I and J) and used to genotype three cattle populations: Gyrholando (3/8 Gyr x 5/8 Holstein), Charolais and Carora. The B variant was the most frequent in the Charolais and Carora breeds, with allelic frequencies of 0.60 and 0.59, respectively. In the Gyrholando breed, four variants were found, with the A variant being the most frequent and E and H the least. The genotyping strategy was effective in detection and differentiation of K-casein variants, and it is proposed for use in laboratories with minimal molecular biology equipment for genotyping and evaluation of the phenotypic effects of nine K-casein variants on milk production and quality.

En América Latina el proceso de envejecimiento se ha caracterizado por su acelerado ritmo y ha estado acompañado, además, de crecientes procesos de urbanización y globalización, que han sido asociados con un incremento significativo de la inactividad física, la cual contribuye al desarrollo de enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles que representan la principal causa de muerte en la región. Recientemente, se ha enfatizado la influencia que tienen en la actividad física las políticas públicas dirigidas a generar intervenciones en diversos atributos de los ambientes urbanos; evidencia que esta soportada principalmente, por estudios llevados a cabo en Estados Unidos y Australia. Sin embargo este tópico ha sido muy poco estudiado en ciudades Latinoaméricanas, las cuales presentan particularidades en sus procesos de envejecimiento y desarrollo urbano. Ciudades como Curitiba y Bogotá han llevado a cabo cambios urbanos significativos que pueden estar vinculados con la actividad física y calidad de vida de las personas, especialmente de los adultos mayores. Dadas las particularidades del desarrollo urbano en América Latina, se concluye acerca de la necesidad de llevar a cabo estudios multidisciplinarios que permitan entender de mejor manera los vínculos entre ambientes urbanos y actividad física en adultos mayores.

Aging in Latin-America has been characterised by its rapid pace which, in turn, has been accompanied by growing urbanisation and globalisation. These processes have been linked to the prevalence of physical inactivity thereby contributing to the appearance of chronic diseases, these being the primary cause of mortality in the region. The influence of public urban environment intervention policy on physical activity has been emphasised recently. This evidence comes mainly from studies conducted in the USA and Australia. However, this topic has scarcely been studied in Latin-America which has particular characteristics regarding aging and urban development. Cities, such as Curitiba and Bogota, have undergone significant urban changes which may be linked to physical activity and the quality of life, especially in older adults. Considering the particularities of urban development in Latin-America, it is thus concluded that multidisciplinary studies should be carried out thereby leading to better understanding of the links between urban environments and physical activity in older adults.

Aging in Latin-America has been characterised by its rapid pace which, in turn, has been accompanied by growing urbanisation and globalisation. These processes have been linked to the prevalence of physical inactivity thereby contributing to the appearance of chronic diseases, these being the primary cause of mortality in the region. The influence of public urban environment intervention policy on physical activity has been emphasised recently. This evidence comes mainly from studies conducted in the USA and Australia. However, this topic has scarcely been studied in Latin-America which has particular characteristics regarding aging and urban development. Cities, such as Curitiba and Bogota, have undergone significant urban changes which may be linked to physical activity and the quality of life, especially in older adults. Considering the particularities of urban development in Latin-America, it is thus concluded that multidisciplinary studies should be carried out thereby leading to better understanding of the links between urban environments and physical activity in older adults.

En América Latina el proceso de envejecimiento se ha caracterizado por su acelerado ritmo y ha estado acompañado, además, de crecientes procesos de urbanización y globalización, que han sido asociados con un incremento significativo de la inactividad física, la cual contribuye al desarrollo de enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles que representan la principal causa de muerte en la región. Recientemente, se ha enfatizado la influencia que tienen en la actividad física las políticas públicas dirigidas a generar intervenciones en diversos atributos de los ambientes urbanos; evidencia que esta soportada principalmente, por estudios llevados a cabo en Estados Unidos y Australia. Sin embargo este tópico ha sido muy poco estudiado en ciudades Latinoaméricanas, las cuales presentan particularidades en sus procesos de envejecimiento y desarrollo urbano. Ciudades como Curitiba y Bogotá han llevado a cabo cambios urbanos significativos que pueden estar vinculados con la actividad física y calidad de vida de las personas, especialmente de los adultos mayores. Dadas las particularidades del desarrollo urbano en América Latina, se concluye acerca de la necesidad de llevar a cabo estudios multidisciplinarios que permitan entender de mejor manera los vínculos entre ambientes urbanos y actividad física en adultos mayores.

Objective Determining the association between the degree of urbanisation and excessive television-viewing and video-game use amongst children aged 5 to 12 years old. Methods Data from the Colombian National Nutritional Survey 2005 was used in the analysis. Television viewing and video-game use was determined through parental reports for 13,090 children and classified as being excessive (e" 2 hours/day) or suitable (<2 hours/day). Five levels of urbanisation were determined using criteria from the National Planning Department and the population size of the rural or urban settings included in the survey. Multiple logistical regression analysis was conducted while taking potential confounders into account. Results There was a gradual increase in the probability of TV or videogames being used for 2 hours or more as the degree of urbanisation increased. This association was statistically significant for urbanisation level 3 and higher (urbanisation level 2, OR=1,33: 0,89-1,99 95 %CI; urbanisation level 3, 1,35=OR: 1,00-1,80 95 %CI; urbanisation level 4, 1,61=OR: 1,16-2,23 95 %CI and urbanisation level 5, 1,7=OR: 1,17-2,46 95 %CI). Conclusion Colombian children living in areas of high-to-moderate urbanisation and population density are at a higher risk of excessive exposure to electronic media entertainment. Due to its multiple health implications (in particular obesity and cardio-metabolic health), such sedentary behaviour should be monitored and its determinants in the Colombian paediatric population must be understand for making effective public health interventions.

Objetivo Examinar la asociación entre los niveles de urbanización y el uso excesivo de televisión y videojuegos (2 horas o más) en niños colombianos de 5 a 12 años. Métodos Un análisis secundario fue realizado a partir de los datos provenientes de 13.090 niños entre 5 a 12 años de edad que fueron seleccionados en la Encuesta Nacional de la Situación Nutricional en Colombia 2005, a los cuales se les determinó el tiempo dedicado a ver televisión y jugar con video juegos, a través de la información proveniente de uno de los padres o acudientes. Cinco niveles de urbanización fueron determinados mediante una adaptación de las categorías definidas por el Departamento Nacional de Planeación. Un modelo de regresión logística fue llevado a cabo, el cual considero potenciales variables de confusión. Resultados Se observó un incremento gradual de la probabilidad de ver dos o más horas televisión o video juegos a medida que el nivel de urbanización era mayor, la cual fue estadísticamente significativa a partir del nivel de urbanización 3 (nivel 2 OR de prevalencia: 1,33 IC 95 %: 0,89-1,99; nivel 3: 1,35: 1,00-1,80; nivel 4: 1,61: 1,16-2,23 y nivel 5: 1,70: 1,17-2,46). Conclusión Los hallazgos de este estudio muestran como el uso excesivo de televisión y video juegos en niños esta asociado a mayores niveles de urbanización. Debido a las implicaciones que tiene para la salud de los niños la exposición excesiva a la televisión y otras formas de entretenimiento electrónico, es importante monitorear este comportamiento y entender sus determinantes.

Objetivo Examinar la asociación entre los niveles de urbanización y el uso excesivo de televisión y videojuegos (2 horas o más) en niños colombianos de 5 a 12 años. Métodos Un análisis secundario fue realizado a partir de los datos provenientes de 13.090 niños entre 5 a 12 años de edad que fueron seleccionados en la Encuesta Nacional de la Situación Nutricional en Colombia 2005, a los cuales se les determinó el tiempo dedicado a ver televisión y jugar con video juegos, a través de la información proveniente de uno de los padres o acudientes. Cinco niveles de urbanización fueron determinados mediante una adaptación de las categorías definidas por el Departamento Nacional de Planeación. Un modelo de regresión logística fue llevado a cabo, el cual considero potenciales variables de confusión. Resultados Se observó un incremento gradual de la probabilidad de ver dos o más horas televisión o video juegos a medida que el nivel de urbanización era mayor, la cual fue estadísticamente significativa a partir del nivel de urbanización 3 (nivel 2 OR de prevalencia: 1,33 IC 95 %: 0,89-1,99; nivel 3: 1,35: 1,00-1,80; nivel 4: 1,61: 1,16-2,23 y nivel 5: 1,70: 1,17-2,46). Conclusión Los hallazgos de este estudio muestran como el uso excesivo de televisión y video juegos en niños esta asociado a mayores niveles de urbanización. Debido a las implicaciones que tiene para la salud de los niños la exposición excesiva a la televisión y otras formas de entretenimiento electrónico, es importante monitorear este comportamiento y entender sus determinantes.

Objective Determining the association between the degree of urbanisation and excessive television-viewing and video-game use amongst children aged 5 to 12 years old. Methods Data from the Colombian National Nutritional Survey 2005 was used in the analysis. Television viewing and video-game use was determined through parental reports for 13,090 children and classified as being excessive (e" 2 hours/day) or suitable (<2 hours/day). Five levels of urbanisation were determined using criteria from the National Planning Department and the population size of the rural or urban settings included in the survey. Multiple logistical regression analysis was conducted while taking potential confounders into account. Results There was a gradual increase in the probability of TV or videogames being used for 2 hours or more as the degree of urbanisation increased. This association was statistically significant for urbanisation level 3 and higher (urbanisation level 2, OR=1,33: 0,89-1,99 95 %CI; urbanisation level 3, 1,35=OR: 1,00-1,80 95 %CI; urbanisation level 4, 1,61=OR: 1,16-2,23 95 %CI and urbanisation level 5, 1,7=OR: 1,17-2,46 95 %CI). Conclusion Colombian children living in areas of high-to-moderate urbanisation and population density are at a higher risk of excessive exposure to electronic media entertainment. Due to its multiple health implications (in particular obesity and cardio-metabolic health), such sedentary behaviour should be monitored and its determinants in the Colombian paediatric population must be understand for making effective public health interventions.