Medicina-Pregrado

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://dspace-test.ucuenca.edu.ec/handle/123456789/25

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Relación entre el estrés académico, calidad del sueño y rendimiento académico en estudiantes de la carrera de medicina de la Universidad de Cuenca
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, 2026-04-29) Granda Orellana, Darly Elizabeth; González Ramón, Carlos Alberto; Roldán Fernández, José Vicente
Background; the medical field is renowned for its rigorous academic demands and time commitments, placing significant pressure on students. This results in high levels of academic stress that can negatively impact their physical and mental well-being, affecting sleep quality, overall health, and academic performance. Objective to determine the relationship between academic stress, sleep quality, and academic performance among medical students at the University of Cuenca. Methodology; this is a quantitative, cross-sectional, analytical prevalence study. A total of 364 medical students participated. Descriptive variables included: sex, age, residence, origin, academic year, academic stress, sleep quality, and academic performance. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the SISCO SV-21 inventory were used. Data analysis involved frequencies, percentages, measures of central tendency and dispersion, Pearson correlation for hypothesis testing (significance level p <0.05), and prevalence ratio with 95% IC to assess the type of association. Results a statistically significant association was found between academic stress and sleep quality according to Pearson correlation (0.265, p < 0.001). However, no relationship was found between stress and academic performance, nor between sleep quality and academic performance. Conclusions; this study provides an overview of the prevalence of academic stress and sleep quality, and their relationship with academic performance.
Absceso hepático secundario a fístula de tumor localizado en ángulo hepático de colon. Reporte de caso
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, 2026-04-28) Jiménez Sánchez, Carlos Ariel; Pulla Maldonado, Luciana Lizbeth; Reinoso Naranjo, Jeovanni Homero
Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide and represents the third most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide, with an incidence rate of 18.4 new cases and a mortality rate of 8.1 deaths per 100,000 people per year. Although it’s usual presentation includes gastrointestinal bleeding or intestinal obstruction, in rare cases it can manifest through atypical infectious complications such as liver abscess. The overall objective of this research was to analyse the clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment and evolution of a case of liver abscess secondary to a fistula from a tumour located in the hepatic angle of the colon, highlighting its relevance for clinical practice. A descriptive-narrative methodology was used in this clinical case, complemented by a literature review. We present the case of an elderly adult patient who was admitted with abdominal pain, melena, anaemia, and systemic inflammatory response, in whom initial imaging studies suggested a pyogenic liver abscess. The clinical course, together with triphasic tomography and percutaneous drainage, revealed faecaloid content, which led to suspicion of a colohepatic fistula. Exploratory laparotomy confirmed the presence of a perforated tumour of the hepatic flexure of the colon with hepatic cavitation, and a right hemicolectomy and colostomy were performed. This case highlights the importance of considering occult colorectal neoplasms in patients with liver abscesses of unknown cause and underscores the need for a timely and multidisciplinary diagnostic approach to improve clinical outcomes.
Prevalencia de infección del tracto urinario en pacientes con Diabetes Mellitus tipo 2 atendidos en la Fundación Hogar del Ecuador entre 2023 y 2025
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, 2026-04-27) Toalongo León, Angélica Paola; Vargas Jarama, Nancy Abigail; Feicán Alvarado, Elsa Astrid
Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic disease with high prevalence, frequently associated with infectious complications such as urinary tract infection (UTI). There is limited updated local data on the prevalence of this complication, which justifies conducting this study. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of UTI in patients with T2DM treated at Fundación Hogar del Ecuador, describe sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, and establish prevalence according to hypoglycemic treatment. Methods: A descriptive study was conducted through review of medical records of patients with T2DM treated between 2023-2025. Patients over 18 years old were included, collecting clinical and biochemical variables and relevant medical history. A database was obtained from which tabulation and corresponding analysis were performed. Results: A total of 91 patients were analyzed, and a UTI prevalence of 7.7% was found, more frequent in women (85.7%) between 45-64 years (57.1%). Asymptomatic bacteriuria predominated (57.1%) and 100% presented poor glycemic control. 14.3% had comorbidities and 28.6% history of recurrent UTI. Most presented T2DM evolution of 1-4 years (42.9%). Patients treated with sulfonylureas showed higher UTI prevalence (16.7%). Conclusions: Moderate UTI prevalence was found, predominant in middle-aged women and associated with poor glycemic control. The findings highlight the importance of adequate metabolic control to prevent infectious complications in diabetic patients.
Indice Coproparasitorio de la Escuela "Escuel Octavio Cordero Palacios" de la parroquia Déleg en la Provincia del Cañar República del Ecuador
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, 1973) Rodas Cabrera, Jorge; Beltrán Chica, Gerardo L.; Neira, Octavio A.
Estudio Por Muestreo De Las Condiciones Demográficas, Socio Económicas y Sanitarias - Nutricionales de los Barrios de la Merced y el Seguro
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, 1973) Mebarack, Claudio; De Mebarack, Julie; Ruilova, Vicente
Factores asociados al diagnóstico tardío de cáncer de cuello uterino en mujeres atendidas en el Hospital de SOLCA Cuenca. Cuenca Ecuador 2019- 2024
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, 2026-04-09) Suárez Espinoza, Johnson Stefano; Rivera Gutiérrez, Daniela Carolina; Vega Crespo, Bernardo José
Background: Cervical cancer remains a relevant cause of morbidity and mortality among women and, in Ecuador, late-stage diagnosis continues to be frequent, leading to poorer clinical outcomes and greater therapeutic complexity. Objective: To identify factors associated with late-stage diagnosis of cervical cancer at SOLCA Cuenca between 2019 and 2024. Methods: A retrospective analytical observational study was conducted through review of anonymized medical records. Late-stage diagnosis was defined as FIGO stage ≥IIB. Associations were assessed using p-values <0.05 and odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). Results: A total of 645 records of women diagnosed with cervical cancer were analyzed; 510 (79.1%) corresponded to late-stage diagnosis. Mean age was higher in the late-stage group (55.8 ± 15.3) compared with the early-stage group (50.9 ± 14.0). Higher odds of late-stage diagnosis were observed among women aged ≥50 years (OR=2.21; 95%CI: 1.509–3.259), with no schooling or primary education (OR=2.049; 95%CI: 1.383–3.040), with no prior Pap smear (OR=3.260; 95%CI: 1.996–5.332), and with no HPV screening history (OR=3.946; 95%CI: 2.650–5.875). Regarding contraceptive use, the “no use” category predominated across all stages, without an association analysis. No association was found with health insurance coverage or ethnicity. Conclusions: The prevalence of late-stage diagnosis was high. Associated factors were mainly related to age, educational determinants, and access to and use of screening strategies, supporting the implementation of targeted interventions to improve outreach, timely screening, and clinical follow-up.
Conocimientos y percepción sobre trasplante hepático en médicos internistas, gastroenterólogos y estudiantes de medicina a partir de quinto año en la ciudad de Cuenca, Ecuador, año 2025
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, 2026-03-30) Esparza Chamba, Astrit Selenia; Gallegos Barros, Fernanda Salomé; González Domínguez, Esteban Horacio
Background: Liver transplantation is an effective therapeutic alternative for patients with endstage liver disease, as it significantly improves their quality of life and life expectancy. While this medical procedure is common in developed countries, its implementation in Ecuador is relatively recent. A major breakthrough was the accreditation of the José Carrasco Arteaga Hospital in Cuenca by INDOT in 2019, making it a regional pioneer and the site of the first liver transplant in 2020. Beyond infrastructure and technology, a fundamental pillar lies in the level of knowledge and perception of the medical community regarding the donation and transplant system. Objective: To determine the level of knowledge and perception of liver transplantation among internists, gastroenterologists, general practitioners, and medical students in their fifth year or above in Cuenca, Ecuador. Methods: An observational, analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire administered to 394 participants. Sociodemographic, knowledge, and perception variables were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the chi-square or Fisher's exact tests for comparison between groups. Results: Significant gaps in knowledge about liver transplantation were found, mainly among medical students and general practitioners, with statistically significant differences compared to specialists (p < 0.05). The main limitations were related to selection and prioritization criteria, recognition of accredited teams, and reporting of brain death. Perceptions of the transplant system were mixed, although mostly favorable. Conclusion: The study demonstrated significant knowledge gaps and incomplete perceptions about liver transplantation, which could affect the identification and timely referral of patients, highlighting the need to strengthen education and continuing training.
Test respiratorio como indicación de endoscopia digestiva alta en pacientes con dispepsia sin señales de alarma en un centro privado de gastroenterología en Cuenca (Ecuador) desde marzo 2018 a diciembre de 2024
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, 2026-02-26) Alvarado Moscoso, Christian Andrés; Jerves Coello, Mateo Sebastián; González Domínguez, Esteban Horacio
Helicobacter pylori infection is one of the most common causes of dyspepsia worldwide, affecting approximately 50% of the global population, with a reported prevalence of 31.2% in Cuenca, Ecuador. Dyspepsia without alarm features is a frequent clinical presentation and represents a diagnostic challenge, as the optimal initial approach remains controversial. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGIE) is considered the gold standard for evaluation; however, it is invasive and costly. In contrast, the H. pylori urea breath test is a non-invasive, accessible, and less expensive alternative that may help reduce the need for endoscopy in patients with mild or no significant disease. This study aimed to determine whether the urea breath test can serve as a criterion or indicator for performing UGIE in patients with dyspepsia without alarm features. A descriptive study with diagnostic test validation was conducted, including 489 patients who underwent both the breath test and UGIE at a private gastroenterology center in Cuenca between March 2018 and December 2024. Data were obtained from an anonymized database and analyzed using REDCap, SPSS version 25, and MedCalc software. Among the participants, 47.44% tested positive for H. pylori. UGIE was performed in 259 patients, with more than 90% showing pathological findings, predominantly mild enanthematous antral gastropathy. The urea breath test demonstrated high specificity (98.01%), positive predictive value (98.28%), and an overall accuracy of 86.91%, supporting its role as an effective triage tool to guide endoscopic evaluation and avoid unnecessary invasive procedures.
Efecto de un Programa de Entrenamiento en Inteligencia Emocional para la salud mental de Usuarios del Centro Municipal de Salud Mental, Adicciones y Familia. Cuenca, Ecuador 2024-2025
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, 2026-01-28) Ruilova Vallejo, Katherine Estefanía; Sánchez Barrera, Nicole Aracely; Ordóñez Mancheno, José Marcelo
Emotional intelligence (EI) is the ability to identify, understand, and regulate one's own emotions as well as those of others. Various studies have shown that high levels of EI are associated with lower prevalence of anxiety, depression, and stress, thus recognizing it as a protective factor for mental health. Considering the evidence and the need for strategies to promote psychological well-being, an Emotional Intelligence Training Program was implemented at the Municipal Center for Mental Health, Addictions, and Family in Cuenca. Objectives: To implement an emotional intelligence program aimed at improving emotional competencies and managing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, and stress in users of the Center, and to analyze its effects. Method: A quasi-experimental study with 61 participants, using a pretest-posttest design without a control group. The TMMS-24 and DASS-21 questionnaires were used to assess emotional intelligence and mental health. The intervention consisted of four weekly sessions led by the authors. Results: The program significantly improved emotional skills and reduced affective symptomatology. An increase in emotional clarity was observed (from 24.7 to 28.3), along with reductions in anxiety (from 18.5 to 12.2), depression (from 16.8 to 10.4), and stress (from 20.1 to 14.7). Conclusion: The program proved to be effective in strengthening psychological well-being. The results support its use as a mental health promotion and prevention strategy, although it has limitations due to the absence of a control group and the short duration of the program.
Evaluación de la eficacia de un antipsicótico atípico combinado con un inhibidor de la recaptación de la serotonina en pacientes con Enfermedades Funcionales Gastrointestinales por medio del Cuestionario GSRS, en el GASTROCENTER-González, en el periodo enero 2018 a diciembre 2023
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, 2026-01-21) Puruncajas Espinoza, Marco Antonio; Pizarro Marín, Juan Diego; González Domínguez, Esteban Horacio
Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are chronic conditions that significantly affect quality of life and propose a therapeutic challenge because conventional treatments have limited efficacy. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of combining an atypical antipsychotic with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) in patients with FGIDs, using the GSRS scale as a clinical assessment tool. An observational, retrospective, longitudinal study was conducted at GASTROCENTER-González (Cuenca, Ecuador), including 134 patients treated between 2018 and 2023. Treatment resulted in a significant improvement in gastrointestinal symptoms, with the total GSRS score decreasing from 61.79 ± 11.54 to 37.10 ± 11.18 (p < 0.001), and a shift toward lower severity categories. Quetiapine monotherapy and its combination with SSRIs showed comparable efficacy, with no statistically significant differences between regimens. Therapeutic response was not associated with sociodemographic variables or symptom duration. In conclusion, pharmacological neuromodulation with quetiapine, alone or combined with SSRIs, represents an effective and well-tolerated therapeutic option that significantly improves gastrointestinal symptoms and quality of life, providing clinical evidence to optimize the comprehensive management of FGIDs.
Frecuencia y asociación entre helicobacter pylori, metaplasia, displasia y neoplasia gástricas en el Laboratorio H&E de la ciudad de Cuenca en el periodo julio 2020- diciembre 2021
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, 2025-11-18) Espinoza Lituma, Juan David; Chicaiza Capón, David Mateo; González Domínguez, Esteban Horacio
Background: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) can colonize the gastric mucosa and affects more than half of the world's population, with a higher prevalence in developing countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes it as a Type I carcinogen due to its association with gastric adenocarcinoma. High rates of infection and gastric neoplasms are recorded in our setting, although recent local studies are limited. Objectives: To determine the frequency and association of H. pylori infection, metaplasia, dysplasia, and gastric neoplasia in patients evaluated at the H&E laboratory in the city of Cuenca between July 2020 and December 2021. Methods: An analytical, observational, retrospective, cross-sectional study. A total of 653 histopathological reports were analyzed to evaluate the frequency and association between variables using analytical statistical analysis. Results: The prevalence of H. pylori was 62.6%. Intestinal metaplasia reached 45.9%, dysplasia 22%, and neoplasia 2.8%, with poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma and the intestinal subtype predominating. Metaplasia (χ2=143,3; p=0,001; OR adjusted=0,420; IC95%: 0,201–0,879) and dysplasia (χ2=38,1; p=0,001; OR crude=0,332; IC95%: 0,203–0,544) were more frequent in H. pylori-negative subjects. Glandular atrophy showed a positive gradient association with metaplasia (OR=4,1– 7,2) y dysplasia (OR=7,7–21,2). Neoplasia was not associated with H. pylori in the crude analysis (χ2=0,735; p=0,391), but an independent association emerged after adjustment (OR=202,4; IC95%: 2,71–15.129; p=0,016). Furthermore, incidentally, a considerable frequency (83.5%) of patients with data suggestive of autoimmune gastritis was found.
Prevalencia de riesgo alto de fibrosis hepática mediante FIB-4 y factores asociados en pacientes con sobrepeso, obesidad y diabetes del grupo industrial GRAIMAN. Cuenca. 2025
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, 2025-10-23) Siavichay Cabrera, Gina Estefania; Ureña Morocho, Juana Brigith; Jiménez Encalada, Marcia Gabriela
Steatohepatitis associated with metabolic dysfunction (MASH) has increased in global incidence in recent decades. It is linked to obesity, diabetes, and the development of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of high risk for liver fibrosis using the FIB-4 index and to identify associated factors in patients with overweight, obesity, and diabetes from the Graiman Industrial Group, Cuenca, 2025. A quantitative, analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted with 517 workers from the Graiman Industrial Group in Cuenca, in 2025. A worker database was used, with prior authorization obtained through the signing of informed consent sent via email. Additional data were collected, and the liver fibrosis risk index was calculated using the following equation: FIB-4 score = [Age (years) × AST (U/L)] / [Platelets (10⁹/L) × √ALT (U/L)]. The data obtained were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Both descriptive and analytical statistics were applied. The results showed a predominance of male participants (88.4%), with a mean age of 40.18 ± 9.22 years. 69.4% were overweight, and 30.6% had some degree of obesity. According to the FIB-4 index, 9.1% were at high risk for liver fibrosis. Although higher risk was observed among workers with HDL ≤45 mg/dL, triglycerides ≥150 mg/dL, and increased waist circumference, none of these associations reached statistical significance (p > 0.05). However, a BMI ≥27 kg/m² showed a trend toward statistical significance (p = 0.082), suggesting a possible clinical association.
Hábitos alimentarios y estado nutricional en adultos mayores con diagnóstico de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 atendidos en consulta externa de Geriatría del Hospital de Especialidades José Carrasco Arteaga durante el período enero-marzo de 2025
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, 2025-10-13) Maita Loja, Bryan Alexander; Orbe Gualancañay, Leidy Esthefania; Larriva Villareal, Diana Katherine
Objective: To assess the eating habits and nutritional status of older adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus, who were seen at the geriatrics outpatient services of José Carrasco Arteaga Specialty Hospital from January to March 2025. Methods and materials: This is a quantitative cross-sectional analytical study applying MNA and ECAAM. The sample comprised 80 older adults from the geriatrics outpatient service. PSPP 2.0 was used to process and analyze information. Statistical measures included frequencies, percentages, and the Chi-square test, with a significance level of 0.05 and a 95% confidence interval. Results: Out of 80 respondents, 60% were older adults, 51.2% were men, 58.8% had a partner, and 63.7% lived in urban areas. The prevalence of poor diet quality was 70%. 38.8% were obese, and 33.8% were overweight. The prevalence of malnutrition was 42.5%, and the risk of malnutrition was 23.8%.100 % of people showed malnutrition and 47.36% of those at risk had poor diet quality. A statistically significant association was found between eating habits and nutritional status. Conclusions: Over half of the older adults with T2DM had poor diet quality, along with significant levels of malnutrition and risk of malnutrition. A statistically significant association was found between eating habits and nutritional status in this population.
Prevalencia de depresión, ansiedad, estrés académico y factores de riesgo asociados en los estudiantes de la Carrera de Odontología de la Universidad de Cuenca, 2025
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, 2025-10-03) Camas Ortiz, Cristhian Joel; Andrade Salazar, Cristhian Hernán; Morocho Malla, Manuel Ismael
Background: The study of depression, anxiety, and academic stress in dental students is essential due to their impact on psychological well-being and academic performance. Objective: To determine the prevalence of depression, anxiety, academic stress, and associated risk factors among students of the Dentistry Program at the University of Cuenca, 2025. Methodology: An observational, analytical, and cross-sectional study with a random sample of 94 dental students. A sociodemographic questionnaire and the DASS-21 scale (α > 0.7) were administered. Measures of central tendency and frequencies were used; the association was analyzed with the chi-square test (p < 0.05); the analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. Results: Of the students surveyed, 60.6% were female, with a mean age of 18.7 years (SD = 1.11); 52.1% were 18 years old, 97.9% were single, and 90.4% lived in urban areas. Regarding mental health, a prevalence of anxiety was 13.8%, depression 6.4%, and stress 1.1%. Being 18 to 19 years old was a protective factor against anxiety (OR = 0.179; p = 0.003), while being 20 to 25 years old represented a risk factor (OR = 7.424; p = 0.001). No significant associations were found between anxiety and the variables sex, marital status, or place of residence. Conclusion: Anxiety was the most prevalent disorder among students, with age being a significantly associated factor in its onset.
Prevalencia y factores asociados a disfunción sexual femenina en estudiantes de la Facultad de Ciencias Médicas de la Universidad de Cuenca, 2024
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-10-01) Coraisaca Cordero, María Verónica; Chamba Murillo, Pamela Isabel; Vanegas Coveña, Diana Patricia
Background: According to studies, sexual dysfunction affects people of all ages and is correlated with lower satisfaction. These types of problems are not always addressed in young people. Research has shown that sexual dysfunction is related to sociodemographic variables. Objectives: To determine the prevalence and factors associated with female sexual dysfunction in students at the Faculty of Medical Sciences of the University of Cuenca, 2024. Method: quantitative, analytical, cross-sectional study with a sample of 275 female university students over the age of 18 from the Faculty of Medical Sciences at the University of Cuenca, enrolled in 2024. The study sample will be calculated proportionally to the students enrolled in each degree program. Surveys based on the “Female Sexual Function Index” (FSFI) will be used, based on the prevalence of 67.2% from a study conducted at the University of Azuay. SPSS version 27.0 will be used for data analysis; for quantitative variables, central tendency statistics (mean) and dispersion statistics (standard deviation) will be applied, while for qualitative variables, frequencies and percentages will be used. In the study of associated factors, statistical tests Will be used according to the behavior of the data obtained. Results: we expect to determine the prevalence and factors associated with female sexual dysfunction in students at the Faculty of Medical Sciences of the University of Cuenca, 2024.
Calidad de vida y depresión en adultos mayores del Centro Geriátrico “Hogar Cristo Rey” de la ciudad de Cuenca, periodo diciembre 2024 - mayo 2025
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-10-01) Carchipulla Pucha, Jenny Marina; Escandón Barnuevo, Giannela Alejandra; Parra Parra, Jorge Leonidas
Background: Quality of life refers to the overall well-being of individuals and encompasses physical, psychological, and social aspects. It can be influenced by many factors, such as depression which, according to the WHO, affects more than 264 million people worldwide. In older adults, its prevalence is high due to factors such as social isolation, the loss of loved ones, and chronic illnesses. Understanding quality of life allows it to be related to the diagnosis and treatment of various pathologies in this group. Objective: To determine the quality of life and depression in older adults at the “Hogar Cristo Rey” Geriatric Center, in the city of Cuenca, during the period December 2024 – May 2025. Method: A descriptive, cross-sectional study. The population consisted of 120 older adults, with a sample of 101 (4% margin of error and 95% confidence level). The WHOQOL-BREF and the Geriatric Depression Scale by Yesavage were applied. Data were processed in Excel and analyzed using SPSS version 28.0 (trial version). Quantitative variables were reported using mean and standard deviation; qualitative variables were presented using frequencies and percentages. Results: 90.0% presented a moderate quality of life, 7.5% very low, and 2.5% high. Regarding emotional state, 42.5% were in the normal range, 33.3% had mild depression, 14.2% moderate, and 10.0% severe. An inverse relationship between both variables was observed. Conclusions: Although most participants had a moderate quality of life, more than half showed some degree of depression, highlighting the need for comprehensive emotional care in institutional settings.
Adherencia al tratamiento en la enfermedad renal crónica y sus factores asociados en pacientes que acuden a consulta externa en el Hospital de Especialidades José Carrasco Arteaga en el periodo enero-marzo 2025
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-26) Cárdenas Coello, Mariela de los Ángeles; Naula Pesantez, Katherine Lissbeth; Ordóñez Chacha, Pablo Roberto
Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a prevalent and highly impactful health pathology globally, primarily due to its progression to advanced stages requiring major treatments like renal replacement therapy. Adherence to treatment is critical for mitigating CKD aggravation and improving patients' quality of life. However, multiple factors can hinder this adherence, ranging from socioeconomic conditions to psychological and clinical barriers. Objective: To determine the level of treatment adherence in CDK and its associated factors in patients attending outpatient consultations at the José Carrasco Arteaga Specialty Hospital during the January-March 2025 period. Method: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted with a sample of 333 CKD patients who received care at HJCA during the specified period. The ARMS-e and MOS questionnaires were used to analyze adherence and associated factors, such as social support. Results: The average age of the surveyed patients was 53.76 years. Characterization of the population revealed that most were men (54.7%) and resided in urban areas (76.6%). The predominant marital status was married (55.9%), and the most frequent educational level was secondary (34.8%). It was found that 309 patients perceived having good social support (global, emotional, instrumental, interactive, and affective). However, 69.7% of those with low emotional support were non-adherent, and 71.4% with low instrumental support were also non-adherent.
Conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas asociadas al almacenamiento y eliminación de desechos farmacéuticos domiciliarios en empleados de la empresa pública municipal ETAPA EP, 2025
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-25) Abril Ortiz, Pedro José; González Ordóñez, Karol Janneth
Introduction: The proper management of household pharmaceutical waste represents a significant challenge for public health and the environment. This study addresses the knowledge, attitudes and practices associated with the storage and disposal of these wastes in employees of the municipal public company ETAPA EP. Objective: To describe the current knowledge, attitudes and practices of the employees of the municipal public company ETAPA EP in relation to the storage and disposal of household pharmaceutical waste. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in a population of 304 employees, to whom a digital survey validated by experts was applied. The data obtained were analyzed in the SPSS V26 Statistical program. Results: 58.1% of the population did not identify the different types of pharmaceutical waste; 20.5% recognized all the risks associated with poor management of this waste; 81.3% and 84.5% (respectively) recognized not knowing how to correctly store and dispose of their medicines; 91.4% and 91.8% (respectively) said they had not received information on the correct way to dispose of their medicines from pharmaceutical dispensers; Practices: 73.0% store medicines in their homes (mainly analgesics, vitaminssupplements and antibiotics), 30.7% dispose of them in a differentiated manner, as well as 50% have a person in charge of these at home. Conclusions: Most participants have deficient knowledge and inadequate practices regarding the management of their household pharmaceutical waste, as well as its risks; however, they exhibit a positive attitude towards the importance of good management, the application of community regulations and programs.
Prevalencia del consumo de alcohol en una población recicladora y su asociación con factores socioeconómicos, Cuenca 2023
(2025-09-24) Portilla Alvarez, Gladys Maribel; Toro Valencia, Tamia Doménica; Gómez Ayora, Andrea Ximena
The waste-picking population, often invisible in society, faces limitations ranging from limited access to basic services to precarious working conditions. These circumstances affect their physical and mental health, making it necessary to analyze factors such as alcohol consumption, which influences their well-being (1). Excessive alcohol consumption is one of the main public health problems worldwide. The World Health Organization recognizes it as a priority, promoting the reduction of harmful habits to mitigate its effects on society and individual health (2). In this context, the objective was to analyze the relationship between alcohol consumption and socioeconomic factors in the waste-picking population through a cross-sectional, observational, and analytical study. The research was based on the primary study "Health, work, and public policies with a gender perspective and approach. The case of women waste pickers in three urban environments of Cuenca, La Libertad, and Macas. Ecuador, 2023-2024." The findings showed that the prevalence of alcohol consumption among recyclers in Cuenca during 2023 was 69.7%, a figure higher than hypothesized. Significant associations were also identified with socioeconomic variables such as educational level (p=0.0000027), monthly income (p=0.0238), and occupation (p=0.0285). The high prevalence reflects the impact of precarious socioeconomic conditions, especially low educational attainment and insufficient income. Therefore, interventions that reduce stigmatization, improve access to health services, and promote labor formalization are key strategies.
Epidemiología de los adultos con diagnóstico de fibrosis quística atendidos en el área de neumología del Hospital Vicente Corral Moscoso durante el periodo enero-diciembre 2024
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-23) Peñaloza Tinoco, Arianna Mayerli; Larco Duche, Valentina Michelle; Uyaguari Ali, Juan Pablo
Background: cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive genetic disease caused by mutations in the CFTR gene (ΔF508 being the most common). It is a multi-organ disease whose life expectancy has increased in recent years. In Ecuador, studies on the adult population are scarce, and there is a lack of information about this group. Objective: to describe the epidemiology of adults diagnosed with cystic fibrosis who were treated in the Pulmonology Department of the Vicente Corral Moscoso Hospital during the period January–December 2024. Methodology: observational, descriptive, retrospective, and cross-sectional study involving 13 adult patients. Data were collected through the review of medical records (MEDISYS system) and the department’s database. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (Epi Info™ 7.2.6 and Excel 2019). Results: the average age was 28.85 years (53,80% female), with a predominance of urban origin (76,90%) and the majority coming from Azuay (61,50%). The diagnosis was made at an average age of 16.85 years, mainly through sweat testing (84,60% positive). All patients presented with bronchiectasis (76,90% with total bilateral involvement), and 76,90% showed spirometric obstruction. The most frequent bacterial colonization was by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (53,85%) and Staphylococcus aureus (46,15%). A total of 38,46% required hospitalization due to exacerbations. Conclusions: adults with CF in this region exhibit late diagnosis, a high burden of pulmonary disease, and frequent colonization by different pathogens. These findings highlight the need to strengthen early diagnosis, access to genetic testing, and comprehensive management of this understudied population.

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