Abstract Objective To evaluate the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis among puerperal women cared for at a tertiary university hospital and the level of understanding of these puerperal women about toxoplasmosis, vertical transmission, and its prophylaxis. Methods For this cross-sectional study, we evaluated 225 patients using presential interviews, prenatal documentation, and electronic medical records. Data were stored using Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) software. Prevalence rates were estimated by the presence of reactive IgG antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii. Data analysis was performed using the chi-square test and calculation of the odds ratio (OR). Seroreactivity to T. gondii and exposure variables (age, educational level, and parity) were analyzed using a confidence interval (95%CI) and a significance level of 5% (p < 0.05). Results The seropositivity rate for T. gondii was 40%. There was no association between seroprevalence and age. Primiparity was a protective factor against seropositivity and low education was a risk factor. Conclusion Knowledge of T. gondii infection and its transmission forms was significantly limited, presenting a risk for acute maternal toxoplasmosis and vertical transmission of this protozoan. Increasing the education level regarding the risk of toxoplasmosis during pregnancy could reduce the rates of infection and vertical transmission of this parasite.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a soroprevalência de toxoplasmose entre puérperas atendidas em um hospital universitário terciário e o nível de compreensão dessas puérperas sobre toxoplasmose, transmissão vertical e sua profilaxia. Métodos Para esse estudo transversal, foram avaliadas 225 pacientes utilizando entrevistas presenciais, documentação de pré-natal e prontuário eletrônico. Os dados foram armazenados usando o software Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap). As taxas de prevalência foram estimadas pela presença de anticorpos IgG reativos contra o Toxoplasma gondii. A análise dos dados foi realizada por meio do teste do qui-quadrado e cálculo do odds ratio (OR). A sororreatividade ao T. gondii e as variáveis de exposição (idade, escolaridade e paridade) foram analisadas, utilizando-se intervalo de confiança (IC95%) e nível de significância de 5% (p < 0,05). Resultados A taxa de soropositividade para T. gondii foi de 40%. Não houve associação entre soroprevalência e idade. A primiparidade foi fator de proteção contra a soropositividade e a baixa escolaridade foi fator de risco. Conclusão O conhecimento da infecção por T. gondii e suas formas de transmissão foi significativamente limitado, apresentando risco para toxoplasmose materna aguda e transmissão vertical desse protozoário. Aumentar o nível de escolaridade quanto ao risco de toxoplasmose durante a gravidez pode reduzir as taxas de infecção e transmissão vertical desse parasita.

Abstract Background Management delays imply worse outcomes in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and, therefore, should be minimized. We evaluated changes in diagnostic and treatment delays regarding RA in the last decades in Brazil. Methods Adults fulfilling the ACR/EULAR (2010) criteria for RA were assessed. Delays in diagnosis and treatment, and the frequencies of early management initiation within thresholds (windows of opportunity) of 3, 6, and 12 months from symptoms onset were evaluated. The Mann–Kendall trend test, chi-squared tests with Cramer’s V effect sizes and analysis of variance were conducted. Results We included 1116 patients: 89.4% female, 56.8% white, mean (SD) age 57.1 (11.5) years. A downward trend was found in diagnostic (tau = - 0.677, p < 0.001) and treatment (tau = - 0.695, p < 0.001) delays from 1990 to 2015. The frequency of early management increased throughout the period, with ascending effect sizes across the 3-, 6-, and 12-month windows (V = 0.120, 0.200 and 0.261, respectively). Despite all improvements, even in recent years (2011–2015) the diagnostic and treatment delays still remained unacceptably high [median (IQR): 8 (4–12) and 11 (5–17) months, respectively], with only 17.2% of the patients treated within the shortest, 3-month window. Conclusion The delays in diagnosis and treatment of RA decreased during the last decades in Brazil. Improvements (effect sizes) were greater at eliminating extreme delays (≥ 12 months) than in attaining really short management windows (≤ 3 months). Very early treatment was still an unrealistic goal for most patients with RA.

Abstract Background Early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) offers an opportunity for better treatment outcomes. In real-life settings, grasping this opportunity might depend on access to specialized care. We evaluated the effects of early versus late assessment by the rheumatologist on the diagnosis, treatment initiation and long-term outcomes of RA under real-life conditions. Methods Adults meeting the ACR/EULAR (2010) or ARA (1987) criteria for RA were included. Structured interviews were conducted. The specialized assessment was deemed “early” when the rheumatologist was the first or second physician consulted after symptoms onset, and “late” when performed afterwards. Delays in RA diagnosis and treatment were inquired. Disease activity (DAS28-CRP) and physical function (HAQ-DI) were evaluated. Student's t, Mann-Whitney U, chi-squared and correlation tests, and multiple linear regression were performed. For sensitivity analysis, a propensity score-matched subsample of early- vs. late-assessed participants was derived based on logistic regression. The study received ethical approval; all participants signed informed consent. Results We included 1057 participants (89.4% female, 56.5% white); mean (SD) age: 56.9 (11.5) years; disease duration: 173.1 (114.5) months. Median (IQR) delays from symptoms onset to both RA diagnosis and initial treatment coincided: 12 (6–36) months, with no significant delay between diagnosis and treatment. Most participants (64.6%) first sought a general practitioner. Notwithstanding, 80.7% had the diagnosis established only by the rheumatologist. Only a minority (28.7%) attained early RA treatment (≤ 6 months of symptoms). Diagnostic and treatment delays were strongly correlated (rho 0.816; p < 0.001). The chances of missing early treatment more than doubled when the assessment by the rheumatologist was belated (OR 2.77; 95% CI: 1.93, 3.97). After long disease duration, late-assessed participants still presented lower chances of remission/low disease activity (OR 0.74; 95% CI: 0.55, 0.99), while the early-assessed ones showed better DAS28-CRP and HAQ-DI scores (difference in means [95% CI]: −0.25 [−0.46, −0.04] and − 0.196 [−0.306, −0.087] respectively). The results in the propensity-score matched subsample confirmed those observed in the original (whole) sample. Conclusions Early diagnosis and treatment initiation in patients with RA was critically dependent on early access to the rheumatologist; late specialized assessment was associated with worse long-term clinical outcomes.

Abstract Introduction Although Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) extra-articular manifestations (ExtRA) occurrence has been decreasing over time, they are still a major mortality risk factor for patients. Objective To determine the prevalence of ExtRA in a large cohort, and its association with demographic and clinical variables. Method Cross-sectional and observational study, based on a multi-centric database from a prospective cohort, in which 11 public rheumatology centres enrolled RA patients (1987 ARA or 2010 ACR-EULAR). Data collection began in 08-2015, using a single online electronic medical record. Continuous variables were compared using Mann–Whit-ney U-test, and Fisher's exact test or chi-square test, as appropriate, were used for categorical variables. The level of significance was set at 5% (p < 0.05). Results 1115 patients were included: 89% women, age [mean ± SD] 58.2 ± 11.5 years, disease duration 14.5 ± 12.2 years, positive Rheumatoid Factor (RF, n = 1108) in 77%, positive anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (ACPA, n = 477) in 78%. Regarding ExtRA, 334 occurrences were registered in 261 patients, resulting in an overall prevalence of 23.4% in the cohort. The comparison among ExtRA and Non-ExtRA groups shows significant higher age (p < 0.001), disease duration (p < 0.001), RF high titers (p = 0.018), Clinical Disease Activity index (CDAI) (p < 0.001), Disease Activity Index 28 (DAS 28) (p < 0.001), and Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) (p < 0.001) in ExtRA group. Treatment with Azathioprine (p = 0.002), Etanercept (p = 0.049) Glucocorticoids (GC) (‘p = 0.002), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (p < 0.001) were more frequent in ExtRA group. Conclusions ExtRA manifestations still show an expressive occurrence that should not be underestimated. Our findings reinforce that long-term seropositive disease, associated with significant disability and persistent inflammatory activity are the key factors related to ExtRA development.

Resumo Objetivo Estudar a ansiedade materna em gestantes sem comorbidades no contexto do surto de COVID-19 no Brasil e estudar o conhecimento e as preocupações maternas sobre a pandemia. Métodos Trata-se de análise secundária de um estudo transversal multicêntrico nacional realizado em 10 cidades, de junho a agosto de 2020, no Brasil. Mulheres no pós-parto entrevistadas, sem comorbidades médicas ou obstétricas, foram incluídas nesta subanálise. Foram aplicados um questionário estruturado e o Inventário de Ansiedade de Beck (BAI, na sigla em inglês). Resultados Das 1.662 mulheres, 763 (45,9%) atenderam aos critérios da análise atual e 16,1% apresentaram ansiedade materna moderada e 11,5% ansiedade materna grave. A ansiedade materna moderada ou grave foi associada à escolaridade no ensino médio (odds ratio [OR]: 1,58; intervalo de confiança [IC] 95%: 1,04–2,40). O fator protetor foi coabitar com companheiro (OR: 0,46; IC95%: 0,29–0,73). Houve correlação positiva entre a pontuação total do BAI e o recebimento de informações sobre cuidados na pandemia (rparcial 0,15; p < 0,001); preocupação com a transmissão vertical de COVID-19 (rparcial 0,10; p = 0,01); receber informações sobre amamentação (rparcial 0,08; p = 0,03); preocupações sobre cuidados pré-natais (rparcial 0,10; p = 0,01) e preocupações sobre o bebê contrair COVID-19 (rparcial 0,11; p = 0,004). A correlação foi negativa com os seguintes aspectos: ter autoconfiança para se proteger (rparcial 0,08; p = 0,04), aprender (rparcial 0,09; p = 0,01) e ter autoconfiança para amamentar (rparcial 0,22; p < 0,001) no contexto da pandemia. Conclusão A ansiedade de gestantes sem comorbidades médicas ou obstétricas esteve associada à escolaridade no ensino médio e não morar com companheiro durante a pandemia de COVID-19. A autoconfiança na proteção contra COVID-19 e o conhecimento sobre os cuidados com a amamentação durante a pandemia reduziram a ansiedade materna.

Abstract Objective To study maternal anxiety in pregnant women without comorbidities in the context of the COVID-19 outbreak in Brazil and to study maternal knowledge and concerns about the pandemic. Methods This is a secondary analysis from a national multicenter cross-sectional study performed in 10 cities, from June to August, 2020, in Brazil. Interviewed postpartum women, without medical or obstetrical comorbidities, were included in the present subanalysis. A structured questionnaire and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) were applied. Results Out of the 1,662 women, 763 (45.9%) met the criteria for the current analysis and 16.1% presented with moderate and 11.5% with severe maternal anxiety. Moderate or severe maternal anxiety was associated with high school education (odds ratio [OR]:1.58; 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.04–2.40). The protective factor was cohabiting with a partner (OR: 0.46; 95%CI: 0.29–0.73). There was a positive correlation between the total BAI score and receiving information about care in the pandemic (rpartial 0.15; p < 0.001); concern about vertical transmission of COVID-19 (rpartial 0.10; p = 0.01); receiving information about breastfeeding (rpartial 0.08; p = 0.03); concerns about prenatal care (rpartial 0.10; p = 0.01), and concerns about the baby contracting COVID-19 (rpartial 0.11; p = 0.004). The correlation was negative in the following aspects: self-confidence in protecting from COVID-19 (rpartial 0.08; p = 0.04), having learned (rpartial 0.09; p = 0.01) and self-confidence in breastfeeding (rpartial 0.22; p < 0.001) in the context of the pandemic. Conclusion The anxiety of pregnant women without medical or obstetrical comorbidities was associated to high school educational level and not living with a partner during the COVID-19 pandemic. Self-confidence in protecting against COVID-19 and knowledge about breastfeeding care during the pandemic reduced maternal anxiety.

RESUMO Apesar do aumento histórico da participação feminina na produção científica brasileira, reconfigurações domésticas e laborais para o controle da Covid-19 podem estar reduzindo a produtividade das mulheres cientistas. A pesquisa GenCovid-Br objetivou traçar um panorama da participação feminina nos artigos sobre Covid-19 das ciências médicas e da saúde, disponibilizados no PubMed, com ao menos um autor de filiação brasileira. Das 1.013 publicações até 14 de agosto de 2020, 6,1% foram escritas exclusivamente por mulheres; 17,2%, exclusivamente por homens; grupos mistos respondem por 31,1% com liderança feminina, e 45,6% com liderança masculina. As mulheres participam mais de artigos com primeira autoria feminina (50,1% vs 35,6% nos liderados por homens). Nos artigos de áreas da Medicina Clínica, em que as mulheres são maioria, ocorre menos participação de autoras, o que também acontece em publicações resultantes de colaborações internacionais. Os presentes resultados indicam a possibilidade de ampliação de desigualdades de gênero prévias durante a pandemia de Covid-19. Novos estudos devem aprofundar a investigação sobre a magnitude e os determinantes desse fenômeno, incluindo análises temporais. As políticas institucionais devem considerar as iniquidades de gênero nas avaliações acadêmicas, prevenindo impactos futuros nas carreiras das mulheres, em particular, das jovens pesquisadoras envolvidas na reprodução social.

ABSTRACT Despite the increasing historical participation of women in Brazilian scientific production, domestic and labor reconfiguration for the control of the Covid-19 pandemic is likely to reduce women scientists’ productivity. The GenCovid-Br Research aimed to outline a panorama of female production in Covid-19 papers in medical and health sciences, available in PubMed, with at least one author with Brazilian affiliation. From the 1,013 publications by August 14, 2020, 6.1% were written exclusively by women, 17.2% exclusively by men, 31.1% were mixed with female leadership, and 45.6% were mixed with male leadership. Women participated in more papers led by women (50.1% vs. 35.6% in those led by men). Papers in Clinical Medicine, where female researchers are predominant, have fewer female authors, occurring in publications resulting from international collaborations. Our results point to the possible expansion of previous gender inequalities during the Covid-19 pandemic. New studies should deepen the investigation of the magnitude and determinants of such phenomenon, including temporal analyses. Institutional policies must consider gender inequalities in academic assessments, preventing future impacts on women’s careers, particularly young researchers involved in social reproduction.

RESUMO Apesar do aumento histórico da participação feminina na produção científica brasileira, reconfigurações domésticas e laborais para o controle da Covid-19 podem estar reduzindo a produtividade das mulheres cientistas. A pesquisa GenCovid-Br objetivou traçar um panorama da participação feminina nos artigos sobre Covid-19 das ciências médicas e da saúde, disponibilizados no PubMed, com ao menos um autor de filiação brasileira. Das 1.013 publicações até 14 de agosto de 2020, 6,1% foram escritas exclusivamente por mulheres; 17,2%, exclusivamente por homens; grupos mistos respondem por 31,1% com liderança feminina, e 45,6% com liderança masculina. As mulheres participam mais de artigos com primeira autoria feminina (50,1% vs 35,6% nos liderados por homens). Nos artigos de áreas da Medicina Clínica, em que as mulheres são maioria, ocorre menos participação de autoras, o que também acontece em publicações resultantes de colaborações internacionais. Os presentes resultados indicam a possibilidade de ampliação de desigualdades de gênero prévias durante a pandemia de Covid-19. Novos estudos devem aprofundar a investigação sobre a magnitude e os determinantes desse fenômeno, incluindo análises temporais. As políticas institucionais devem considerar as iniquidades de gênero nas avaliações acadêmicas, prevenindo impactos futuros nas carreiras das mulheres, em particular, das jovens pesquisadoras envolvidas na reprodução social.

ABSTRACT Despite the increasing historical participation of women in Brazilian scientific production, domestic and labor reconfiguration for the control of the Covid-19 pandemic is likely to reduce women scientists’ productivity. The GenCovid-Br Research aimed to outline a panorama of female production in Covid-19 papers in medical and health sciences, available in PubMed, with at least one author with Brazilian affiliation. From the 1,013 publications by August 14, 2020, 6.1% were written exclusively by women, 17.2% exclusively by men, 31.1% were mixed with female leadership, and 45.6% were mixed with male leadership. Women participated in more papers led by women (50.1% vs. 35.6% in those led by men). Papers in Clinical Medicine, where female researchers are predominant, have fewer female authors, occurring in publications resulting from international collaborations. Our results point to the possible expansion of previous gender inequalities during the Covid-19 pandemic. New studies should deepen the investigation of the magnitude and determinants of such phenomenon, including temporal analyses. Institutional policies must consider gender inequalities in academic assessments, preventing future impacts on women’s careers, particularly young researchers involved in social reproduction.

ABSTRACT COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the recently discovered coronavirus SARS-Cov-2. The disease became pandemic affecting many countries globally, including Brazil. Considering the expansion process and particularities during the initial stages of the epidemic, we aimed to analyze the spatial and spatiotemporal patterns of COVID-19 occurrence and to identify priority risk areas in Minas Gerais State, Southeast Brazil. An ecological study was performed considering all data from human cases of COVID-19 confirmed from the epidemiological week (EW) 11 (March 08, 2020) to EW 26 (June 27, 2020). Crude and smoothed incidence rates were used to analyze the distribution of disease patterns based on global and local indicators of spatial association and space-time risk assessment. Positive spatial autocorrelation and spatial dependence were found. Our results suggest that the metropolitan region of the State capital Belo Horizonte (MRBH) and Vale do Rio Doce mesoregions, as major epidemic foci in the beginning of the expansion process, have had important influence on the dispersion of SARS-CoV-2 in Minas Gerais State. Triangulo Mineiro/Alto Paranaiba region presented the highest risk of infection. In addition, six statistically significant spatiotemporal clusters were identified in the State, three at high risk and three at low risk. Our findings contribute to a greater understanding of the space-time disease dynamic and discuss strategies for identification of priority areas for COVID-19 surveillance and control.

Abstract Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic and autoimmune systemic inflammatory disease that can cause irreversible joint deformities, with increased morbidity and mortality and a significant impact on the quality of life of the affected individual. The main objective of RA treatment is to achieve sustained clinical remission or low disease activity. However, up to 40% of patients do not respond to available treatments, including bDMARDs. New therapeutic targets for RA are emerging, such as Janus kinases (JAKs). These are essential for intracellular signaling (via JAK-STAT) in response to many cytokines involved in RA immunopathogenesis. JAK inhibitors (JAKi) have established themselves as a highly effective treatment, gaining increasing space in the therapeutic arsenal for the treatment of RA. The current recommendations aim to present a review of the main aspects related to the efficacy and safety of JAKis in RA patients, and to update the recommendations and treatment algorithm proposed by the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology in 2017.

Resumo Objetivo Descrever a vigilância ativa dos eventos adversos pós-vacinação, sua incidência e fatores associados, em um município de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Métodos Coorte prospectiva realizada na Atenção Primária à Saúde, entre 2017 e 2018. Foram acompanhados 384 indivíduos que receberam vacinas, excluindo-se aqueles que tiveram eventos adversos prévios. Na linha de base, foram coletadas informações sociodemográficas, de saúde e histórico de vacinação e, no seguimento, as características do evento adverso e das ações de vigilância epidemiológica. Estimou-se taxa de incidência de eventos adversos, e realizaram-se o teste do qui-quadrado, a regressão de Poisson e o teste de Hosmer-Lemeshow. Resultados A incidência de eventos adversos foi de 13,36 casos/100 mil doses de vacinas (intervalo de confiança de 95%: 13,34-13,38), com maior incidência em crianças menores de 5 anos. Os eventos adversos mais frequentes foram dor local, vermelhidão, endurecimento, seguidos de febre e choro persistente. Dentre os fatores associados à ocorrência dos eventos adversos, recebimento da vacina contra tétano e difteria (risco relativo: 7,9; intervalo de confiança de 95%: 2,77-12,46) e administração por meio da via intramuscular foram considerados de risco (risco relativo: 6,1; intervalo de confiança de 95%: 2,55-14,63). A conduta do profissional de enfermagem, diante das orientações sobre as vacinas recebidas, aumentou a notificação de eventos adversos (risco relativo: 3,4; intervalo de confiança de 95%: 1,53-7,68). Conclusão O estudo permitiu conhecer fatores que favorecem a ocorrência de eventos adversos. Há evidências de que condutas adotadas pelos profissionais de enfermagem nas salas de vacinação podem evitar subnotificações de eventos adversos pós-vacinação.

Abstract Objective To describe the active surveillance of adverse events following immunization, their incidence and associated factors in a municipality of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Methods This is a prospective cohort conducted in Primary Health Care between 2017 and 2018. A total of 384 individuals who received vaccines were followed up, excluding those who had previous adverse events. At baseline, sociodemographic, health and vaccination history information and, in follow-up, the characteristics of adverse events and epidemiological surveillance actions were collected. The incidence rate of adverse events was estimated, and the chi-square test, poisson regression and Hosmer-Lemeshow test were performed. Results The incidence of adverse events was 13.36 cases/100,000 doses of vaccines (95% confidence interval: 13.34-13.38), with a higher incidence in children under 5 years of age. The most frequent adverse events were local pain, redness, hardening, followed by fever and persistent crying. Among the factors associated with the occurrence of adverse events, receiving tetanus and diffrhyphria vaccine (relative risk: 7.9; 95% confidence interval: 2.77-12.46) and intramuscular administration were considered at risk (relative risk: 6.1; 95% confidence interval: 2.55-14.63). Nursing professionals’ conduct, considering the guidelines on the vaccines received, increased adverse event reporting (relative risk: 3.4; 95% confidence interval: 1.53-7.68). Conclusion The study allowed to know factors that favor the occurrence of adverse events. There is evidence that conducts adopted by nursing professionals in immunization rooms may avoid underreporting of adverse events following immunization.

Resumen Observación Describir la observación activa de los eventos adversos posvacunación, su incidencia y factores asociados en un municipio del estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Métodos Cohorte prospectiva realizada en la Atención Primaria de Salud, entre 2017 y 2018. Se realizó el seguimiento de 384 individuos que recibieron vacunas, excluyendo a aquellos que tuvieron eventos adversos previos. En la línea basal, se recopiló información sociodemográfica, de salud e historial de vacunación y, en el seguimiento, las características del evento adverso y las acciones de observación epidemiológica. Se estimó un índice de incidencia de eventos adversos y se realizó la prueba χ2 de Pearson, la regresión de Poisson y la prueba de Hosmer-Lemeshow. Resultados La incidencia de eventos adversos fue de 13,36 casos/100.000 dosis de vacuna (intervalo de confianza de 95 %: 13,34-13,38), con mayor incidencia en niños menores de 5 años. Los eventos adversos más frecuentes fueron dolor local, enrojecimiento, endurecimiento, seguidos de fiebre y llanto persistente. Entre los factores asociados a la ocurrencia de los eventos adversos, la aplicación de la vacuna contra el tétanos y la difteria (riesgo relativo: 7,9; intervalo de confianza de 95 %: 2,77-12,46) y la administración por medio de la vía intramuscular fueron considerados de riesgo (riesgo relativo: 6,1; intervalo de confianza de 95 %: 2,55-14,63). La conducta del profesional de enfermería ante las instrucciones sobre las vacunas recibidas aumentó la notificación de eventos adversos (riesgo relativo: 3,4; intervalo de confianza de 95 %: 1,53-7,68). Conclusión El estudio permitió conocer factores que favorecen a la ocurrencia de eventos adversos. Hay evidencias de que las conductas adoptadas por los profesionales de enfermería en las salas de vacunación pueden evitar subnotificaciones de eventos adversos posvacunación.

Abstract Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common autoimmune systemic inflammatory disease. In addition to joint involvement, RA patients frequently have other comorbidities, such as cardiovascular diseases. Drugs used for RA treatment may increase or decrease the risk of a cardiovascular event. This study aims to analyze cardiovascular risk comorbidities in patients with RA and the correlation with the use of anti-rheumatic drugs. Methods: Cross-sectional study conducted based on the real-life rheumatoid arthritis study database - REAL, a prospective observational cohort study. Associations between the use of anti-rheumatic drugs and the presence of comorbidities were represented by their prevalence ratio and evaluated using the Chi-square or Fisher’s Exact tests. Results: We assessed 1116 patients, 89.4% women, mean age of 55.15 years and predominance of seropositive disease. 63.3% had some cardiovascular comorbidity, predominantly hypertension (49.9%). The use of glucocorticoids was observed in 47.4% of patients and there was a significant tendency of lower use of these drugs in the presence of dyslipidemia (PR: 0.790; p = 0.007). We observed that the presence of cardiovascular comorbidities was associated with higher use of bDMARDs (PR:1.147; p = 0.003). Conclusions: The presence of cardiovascular risk comorbidities was confirmed to be higher in RA patients. Different treatment strategies using less glucocorticoids in the presence of dyslipidemia and more common use of bDMARDs in patients with cardiovascular comorbidities suggest that rheumatologists are aware of the potential influence of the DMARDs in the risk of cardiovascular event. Reinforcing these results, we highlight the need for a better baseline assessment to guide the choice of anti-rheumatic drugs in RA patients who have comorbidities.

The present narrative review synthesized scientific evidence regarding gender and race inequality in the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on women's productive/reproductive work, gender-based violence, and the access to sexual and reproductive health services (SRHS). The results demonstrated that the effective control of the pandemic and the preservation of rights should consider social inequality. Besides the direct effects of SARS-CoV-2, the literature discusses that access barriers to SRHS can lead to an increase of unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and maternal mortality. Also, the social distancing has led several women to stay confined with their aggressors, which hinders the access to reporting services, incurring in the increase of gender-based violence and severe outcomes to health. As the main responsible for the care, women are more prone to get the virus in both professional and domestic spheres. The conciliation between work and family has become more difficult for them during the pandemic. Literature naturalizes gender, race, and social class differences, emphasizing risk factors. An intersectional research plan is needed to support the information of public policies that incorporate human rights and embrace the needs of the most vulnerable groups to the COVID-19.

Esta revisão narrativa sintetizou evidências científicas sobre desigualdades de gênero e raça na pandemia da COVID-19, enfocando o trabalho produtivo/reprodutivo das mulheres, a violência de gênero e o acesso aos serviços de saúde sexual e reprodutiva (SSR). Os resultados confirmam que as desigualdades sociais devem ser consideradas para o efetivo controle da pandemia e a preservação de direitos. Para além dos efeitos diretos do SARS-CoV-2, discute-se que barreiras de acesso a serviços de SSR podem ocasionar o aumento de gravidezes não-pretendidas, abortos inseguros e mortalidade materna. O distanciamento social tem obrigado muitas mulheres a permanecer confinadas com seus agressores e dificultado o acesso a serviços de denúncia, incorrendo no aumento da violência de gênero e em desfechos graves à saúde. Como principais responsáveis pelo cuidado, as mulheres estão mais expostas a adoecer nas esferas profissional e doméstica. A conciliação trabalho-família tornou-se mais difícil para elas durante a pandemia. A literatura naturaliza as diferenças de gênero, raça e classe, com ênfase em fatores de risco. Uma agenda de pesquisa com abordagem interseccional é necessária para embasar a formulação de políticas que incorporem os direitos humanos e atendam às necessidades dos grupos mais vulneráveis à COVID-19.

RESUMO Esta revisão narrativa sintetizou evidências científicas sobre desigualdades de gênero e raça na pandemia de Covid-19, enfocando o trabalho produtivo/reprodutivo das mulheres, a violência de gênero e o acesso aos Serviços de Saúde Sexual e Reprodutiva (SSR). Os resultados confirmam que as desigualdades sociais devem ser consideradas para o efetivo controle da pandemia e para a preservação de direitos. Para além dos efeitos diretos do SARS-CoV-2, discute-se que barreiras de acesso a serviços de SSR podem ocasionar o aumento de gravidezes não pretendidas, abortos inseguros e mortalidade materna. O distanciamento social tem obrigado muitas mulheres a permanecer confinadas com seus agressores e dificultado o acesso a serviços de denúncia, incorrendo no aumento da violência de gênero e em desfechos graves à saúde. Como principais responsáveis pelo cuidado, as mulheres estão mais expostas a adoecer nas esferas profissional e doméstica. A conciliação trabalho-família tornou-se mais difícil para elas durante a pandemia. A literatura naturaliza as diferenças de gênero, raça e classe, com ênfase em fatores de risco. Uma agenda de pesquisa com abordagem interseccional é necessária para embasar a formulação de políticas que incorporem os direitos humanos e atendam às necessidades dos grupos mais vulneráveis à Covid-19.

ABSTRACT This narrative review synthesized scientific evidence on gender and race inequalities in the Covid-19 pandemic, focusing on women’s productive/reproductive work, gender-based violence, and the access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Services (SRHS). The results demonstrated that social inequalities must be considered for the effective control of the pandemic and for the preservation of rights. Besides the direct effects of SARS-CoV-2, the literature discusses that barriers to access SRHS can lead to an increase in unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and maternal mortality. Also, social distancing has led several women to stay confined with their aggressors, which hinders the access to reporting services, incurring in the increase of gender-based violence and severe outcomes to health. As main responsible for the care, women are more prone to getting the virus in both professional and domestic spheres. The conciliation between work and family has become more difficult for them during the pandemic. Literature naturalizes gender, race, and social class differences, emphasizing risk factors. An intersectional research plan is needed to support the making of public policies that incorporate human rights and meet the needs of the most vulnerable to Covid-19.

Abstract Background: In Brazil, socioeconomic differences in the incidence of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have been demonstrated, which are important in the formulation of hypotheses regarding the association between environmental factors, lifestyle and the risk of disease development. This study examines how the socioeconomic condition of the patient with RA in Brazil, assessed according to social class, educational level, employment situation and use of caregivers, affects the times between the beginning of symptoms and diagnosis and the beginning of the use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, as well as the presence of erosive disease and functional status. Methods: This work is part of a multicentric study called REAL - Rheumatoid Arthritis in Real Life in Brazil, which is a prospective observational cohort study. Results: As described in the REAL study, we included a total of 1115 patients. It was noted that patients with an educational classification of up to second grade incomplete presented with erosion percentages above those with a higher grade complete. Patients with caregivers presented a higher percentage of erosion than patients without caregivers. We verified that patients from economic classes above B2 presented fewer occurrences of erosion than those from classes C2, D-E. We also analyzed the average time differences from the beginning of symptoms and diagnosis and the beginning of treatment, according to academic level, erosion and economic classification. Patients with first grade complete showed an HAQ-DI averages higher than those with second grade complete. The patients who had employment showed lower HAQ-DI averages than patients who were not employed. The patients with erosion showed an HAQ-DI value higher than those without erosion. Patients with caregivers showed an HAQ-DI average higher than that of without caregivers. Conclusion: This study showed that the therapeutic window of RA is not being reached, and therefore we should have a policy to expand and ensure access to public health for all patients, especially those with lower levels of education and income. Trial registration: This study was approved by the National Commission of Ethics in Research.

RESUMO Esta revisão narrativa sintetizou evidências científicas sobre desigualdades de gênero e raça na pandemia de Covid-19, enfocando o trabalho produtivo/reprodutivo das mulheres, a violência de gênero e o acesso aos Serviços de Saúde Sexual e Reprodutiva (SSR). Os resultados confirmam que as desigualdades sociais devem ser consideradas para o efetivo controle da pandemia e para a preservação de direitos. Para além dos efeitos diretos do SARS-CoV-2, discute-se que barreiras de acesso a serviços de SSR podem ocasionar o aumento de gravidezes não pretendidas, abortos inseguros e mortalidade materna. O distanciamento social tem obrigado muitas mulheres a permanecer confinadas com seus agressores e dificultado o acesso a serviços de denúncia, incorrendo no aumento da violência de gênero e em desfechos graves à saúde. Como principais responsáveis pelo cuidado, as mulheres estão mais expostas a adoecer nas esferas profissional e doméstica. A conciliação trabalho-família tornou-se mais difícil para elas durante a pandemia. A literatura naturaliza as diferenças de gênero, raça e classe, com ênfase em fatores de risco. Uma agenda de pesquisa com abordagem interseccional é necessária para embasar a formulação de políticas que incorporem os direitos humanos e atendam às necessidades dos grupos mais vulneráveis à Covid-19.

ABSTRACT This narrative review synthesized scientific evidence on gender and race inequalities in the Covid-19 pandemic, focusing on women’s productive/reproductive work, gender-based violence, and the access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Services (SRHS). The results demonstrated that social inequalities must be considered for the effective control of the pandemic and for the preservation of rights. Besides the direct effects of SARS-CoV-2, the literature discusses that barriers to access SRHS can lead to an increase in unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and maternal mortality. Also, social distancing has led several women to stay confined with their aggressors, which hinders the access to reporting services, incurring in the increase of gender-based violence and severe outcomes to health. As main responsible for the care, women are more prone to getting the virus in both professional and domestic spheres. The conciliation between work and family has become more difficult for them during the pandemic. Literature naturalizes gender, race, and social class differences, emphasizing risk factors. An intersectional research plan is needed to support the making of public policies that incorporate human rights and meet the needs of the most vulnerable to Covid-19.