Revista Gregoriana de Ciencias de la Salud
Revista Gregoriana de Ciencias de la Salud (e-ISSN: 3028-8940) from San Gregorio de Portoviejo University (Ecuador) is committed to being a means of scientific communication of excellence focused on Health Sciences. It seeks to contribute to advancing and disseminating knowledge in this field, promoting research and academic discussion. It is aimed at professionals and students in ​​Health Sciences, striving to be a valuable resource for their educational and scientific development.
Sedentary lifestyle as a leading factor in cardiovascular disease in the Honorato Vázquez community in Ecuador
Sedentary behavior is a key factor in the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), posing an increasing threat to public health. This study aimed to analyze individual, social, and environmental factors influencing the adoption of a sedentary lifestyle in the Honorato Vásquez parish, Santana canton (Manabí, Ecuador). A descriptive study was conducted with 144 participants aged 30 years or older, classified by physical activity levels. Structured surveys assessed knowledge, habits, and conditions related to a sedentary lifestyle. Results revealed that 70% of respondents spent over 10 hours a day sitting, and 60% experienced symptoms like joint pain without physical exertion. Although 80% were aware of the risks and expressed willingness to change, barriers such as lack of time and inadequate public spaces remain. It is concluded that sedentary behavior is a prevalent risk factor that is exacerbated by social and environmental conditions. Community-based strategies are urgently needed to promote active lifestyles and reduce CVD incidence.
Copyright (c) 2025 María M. Orellana, Manuel A. Navarrete, Marcos G. Sabando, Julio L. Quinteros, Elián J. Rivadeneira, Víctor V. Román, Orelvis Rodríguez https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Leishmaniasis in Santa Ana, Ecuador: knowledge assessment and control strategies
Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease transmitted by the bite of infected sand flies, with a high incidence in tropical areas, such as Santa Ana, Ecuador. This study aimed to analyze the community's level of knowledge and the effectiveness of control strategies implemented in the region. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 25 residents, who completed surveys that collected sociodemographic data, knowledge about the disease, perceptions of preventive measures, and attitudes toward possible infection. Results showed that 92% of respondents were unaware of the disease, and 100% were unaware of its mode of transmission. Additionally, 68% considered preventive actions insufficient, and 64% perceived awareness campaigns as ineffective. Despite this, 80% expressed a willingness to seek hospital care in the event of suspicious symptoms. The study concludes that the persistence of leishmaniasis in the community is associated with a lack of information and a limited understanding of institutional efforts, highlighting the need to strengthen educational strategies, improve access to healthcare services, and expand community-based prevention campaigns.
Copyright (c) 2025 Lady M. Guerrero, Gabriela M. Briones, Boris A. Briones, José M. Merino, Raúl A. Cordero, Carlos R. Alejandro https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Risk factors for the incidence of dengue in the Alhajuela community in Ecuador
This study analyzed the risk factors associated with dengue incidence in Alhajuela Parish, Manabí, Ecuador, to inform prevention strategies tailored to the local context. A structured survey was administered to 41 residents aged 18 years or older, gathering data on dengue knowledge, Aedes aegypti breeding sites, hygiene habits, and protective measures. Results showed that 41.5% of participants lacked basic knowledge about the disease, and 61% reported breeding sites near their homes. Only 34.1% of water containers were cleaned daily, while mosquito nets (95.1%) and repellents (53.6%) were the most common preventive methods. A clear association was found between poor domestic hygiene and higher exposure to the vector. The convergence of environmental factors, poor sanitation infrastructure, and limited community education increases the risk of dengue transmission. The study concludes that it is essential to strengthen educational campaigns, improve basic services, and promote community participation to reduce the incidence of this disease.
Copyright (c) 2025 Zdravko Ivicevic, Edgar E. Rodríguez, Winther B. Moreira, Claudia V. Constante, Andrea V. Dueñas, Frank S. Vinces, José H. Párraga https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Childhood malnutrition in patients aged 0 to 9 years attending the Miraflores Health Center in Ecuador
Child malnutrition is a public health issue that affects children's growth and development, particularly in vulnerable communities. This study aimed to analyze nutritional conditions and associated factors in children aged 0 to 9 years attending the Miraflores Health Center in Manabí, Ecuador. A cross-sectional, descriptive, and observational study was conducted from May to September 2024 with a non-probabilistic convenience sample of 52 caregivers. Data collection involved structured surveys and an interview with healthcare personnel. Findings revealed poor dietary quality among children, characterized by high intake of carbohydrates and dairy products, and low consumption of fruits and vegetables. Most caregivers also showed limited knowledge of child nutrition. These results underscore the need to strengthen educational and community-based interventions that promote healthy eating practices from early childhood.
Copyright (c) 2025 Daniel J. Alarcón, Daniel A. Briones, Isaac E. Intriago, Mario A. García, Lissette B. Villavicencio https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Contraceptive preferences among female students of the Health area at San Gregorio de Portoviejo University
In university students, the choice of contraceptive methods is influenced by academic, sociocultural, and economic factors. This study analyzed contraceptive preferences among health science students to identify usage patterns and access barriers, aiming to examine contraceptive preferences in female students at the Universidad San Gregorio de Portoviejo and identify the factors influencing their choices. It was a descriptive, non-experimental, cross-sectional study involving 85 students from Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Nutrition, and Integral Aesthetics programs. A digital survey with single-choice and multiple-choice questions was administered. The male condom was the most commonly used method, followed by oral contraceptives. Pharmacies were the primary source of acquisition, and most participants received information from general practitioners. Therefore, it is recommended to strengthen sexual education and improve access to information to optimize decision-making in reproductive health.
Copyright (c) 2025 Camila S. Aguirre, Kendry E. Cedeño, Anthony V. Cornejo Cornejo, Aaron A. Falcones, Karen Valera, Ariagna Martínez, Rolando Sánchez https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Risk factors associated with type II diabetes mellitus in the Miraflores community in Ecuador
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is an increasingly prevalent public health problem, particularly in rural communities where social and economic determinants affect disease management. This study aimed to identify risk factors associated with T2DM in the community of Miraflores, located in the 24 de Mayo canton of Ecuador. A descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted with a random sample of 60 individuals diagnosed with the disease, using a structured survey to assess their knowledge of the disease, eating habits, physical activity, family history, tobacco and alcohol use, and access to health services. The results revealed limited understanding of the disease, a diet high in high-glycemic index carbohydrates, low frequency of physical activity, and economic constraints that limited access to healthy foods and glucose monitoring. A total of 78.3% reported a family history of T2DM, and more than 50% reported regular tobacco or alcohol use. It is concluded that T2DM in this community is the result of an interaction among genetic, behavioral, and environmental factors, highlighting the need for educational interventions, improved access to metabolic monitoring, and enhanced living conditions to mitigate its impact.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jefferson J. Gutiérrez, Joseph J. Castro, Vicente A. Franco, Irene N. Panta, Lester W. Loor, María A. Rivadeneira https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
HEARTS initiative for the prevention and control of high blood pressure in the community of Paján in Ecuador
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with high blood pressure (HBP) being its main modifiable risk factor. In response to this problem, the World Health Organization and the Pan American Health Organization developed the HEARTS initiative. This study aimed to analyze the HEARTS initiative in the community of Paján, Ecuador, evaluating its effectiveness in the prevention and control of HBP from a comprehensive approach based on primary care. A descriptive, cross-sectional, and observational methodology was employed, utilizing structured surveys and semi-structured interviews to analyze participants' perceptions regarding access to the program, adherence to treatment, and difficulties in controlling HBP. The results indicate the need to strengthen the dissemination of the program and improve access to medications to ensure its effectiveness in the community.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sofía D. Véliz, Melanie D. Toro, Mario A. Revilla, Diana J. Asanza, Jordan J. Demera, Freddy B. Saldarriaga, Patricia P. Pinargote https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Social determinants associated with teenage pregnancy in the 24 de Mayo community in Ecuador
Adolescent pregnancy is a significant public health concern with social, economic, and educational repercussions. This study aimed to describe the social determinants associated with teenage pregnancy in the 24 de Mayo community, Manabí, Ecuador. An observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study was conducted from April to September 2023, during which surveys were administered to 30 community members to assess factors such as sexual education, family background, and contraceptive use. Results showed that 80% of respondents had a family history of adolescent pregnancy, 63.3% considered sexual education insufficient, and 90% did not use contraceptives. Early sexual initiation and limited institutional engagement were also observed. The study concludes that implementing educational strategies, enhancing access to comprehensive sexual education, and reinforcing family planning are essential to reduce the prevalence of adolescent pregnancy and its intergenerational consequences.
Copyright (c) 2025 José D. Barcia, Alisson L. Bravo, Renata M. Leones, Valeria I. Mendoza, Helen Z. Veliz, José A. Cedeño, Reisey Batista https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Small cell lung carcinoma is a malignant neuroendocrine neoplasm characterized by rapid progression and high metastatic potential. This article presents the case of a 31-year-old male patient with no history of smoking who experienced persistent hemoptysis for one year, accompanied by asthenia and odynophagia. Imaging studies revealed a pulmonary mass located in the upper lobe of the left lung, involving the left main bronchus and accompanied by satellite nodular lesions, some of them cavitated. A CT-guided biopsy showed small, round-shaped cells with hyperchromatic nuclei and high mitotic activity. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed positivity for cytokeratin, TTF-1, CD56, and a moderate Ki-67 proliferation index, confirming the diagnosis of small cell lung carcinoma. This case is atypical due to the patient’s young age, the peripheral location of the tumor, and the absence of classical risk factors such as smoking.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ritha V. Bravo, Sirced Salazar, Elizabeth Carballosa, Anthony V. Cornejo, Andrés S. Palma, Kendry E. Cedeño https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Medical ethics and professional training: building competencies for responsible healthcare practice
This essay aimed to analyze the importance of medical ethics in professional training for future physicians, emphasizing current challenges and proposing strategies to strengthen ethical competencies in clinical practice. Through a critical review of the literature and educational contexts in countries such as Ecuador, the paper identifies weaknesses in bioethics programs and calls for a comprehensive approach that incorporates both technological advancements and humanistic values. It recommends reinforcing curricula with practical modules, fostering medical professionalism, and establishing ethics committees within academic institutions to promote a more just, empathetic, and responsible healthcare practice.
Copyright (c) 2025 Melany V. Celorio, Ivanna W. Loor, Rosa M. Macías, María N. Molina, Beatríz E. Moreira, Eugenio R. Borroto, María del R. Herrera https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Critical review of the interdisciplinary approach of the book «Comprehensive Dentistry: contemporary challenges in oral care»
This critical review analyzes the interdisciplinary approach of the book Comprehensive Dentistry: contemporary challenges in oral care, compiled by Santos and Galarza (2024). The book is organized into eight thematic chapters that address key areas of modern dental practice, including care for vulnerable populations (children with Down syndrome, individuals with disabilities, and older adults) and advanced clinical techniques (fiberglass post rehabilitation, conservative pulp therapy, space maintenance, and treatment of ameloblastoma). Each chapter, based on research conducted at San Gregorio de Portoviejo University, provides an up-to-date, contextually grounded, and academically rigorous perspective, complete with practical recommendations and recent references. The book stands out as a pedagogical and continuing education resource, facilitating the application of scientific knowledge to clinical practice and promoting patient-centered, evidence-based, and equitable dentistry. Its clear structure and multidisciplinary scope make it a valuable reference for students, educators, and dental professionals alike.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ximena S. Guillén Guillén https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Matilda effect: challenges to the visibility and recognition of women in Health Sciences
This letter to the editor addresses the persistent Matilda Effect, which invisibilizes or downplays women's scientific contributions, particularly in the Health Sciences. Despite increasing female participation in academia and research, structural barriers still limit their access to funding, leadership, authorship, and recognition. The author illustrates this bias through historical and contemporary examples, from Rosalind Franklin and Alice Ball to Katalin Karikó. In Ecuador, marked disparities persist in STEM fields, as well as discrimination and harassment in surgical specialties. The letter proposes that scientific journals adopt equitable editorial policies—such as gender-balanced boards, blind peer review, and gender indicator monitoring—to foster ethical and inclusive science. The author calls on the academic community to reflect on and challenge the practices that perpetuate this inequity, in order to build a more diverse and just scientific ecosystem.
Copyright (c) 2025 Daliannis Rodríguez https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Ethics and knowledge: a debate that never ends
This editorial reflects on the enduring tension between scientific-technological progress and the ethical considerations that should accompany it. Through historical and current examples—such as artificial intelligence in medical diagnostics, gene editing, or clinical trials involving vulnerable populations—the authors raise fundamental questions about moral responsibility in the production of knowledge. The role of Human Research Ethics Committees (CEISHs) is emphasized, especially in the Ecuadorian context, where their consolidation in universities is crucial for ensuring the integrity of academic projects. The editorial emphasizes the importance of linking Knowledge Integration Projects with ethical review processes, particularly when human participants are involved. It concludes by asserting that ethics in science must go beyond regulations and be understood as a personal and collective commitment to guide knowledge toward the common good.
Copyright (c) 2025 Alfredo L. Marín, Mario A. García https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Competency profile of university professors and their impact on future healthcare professionals
The expectations of a student entering health-related careers are high; the quality of these future professionals depends on the teacher, who is more than an instructor — they are a mentor and guide. A qualitative and descriptive literature review was conducted on the main competencies of faculty in the Health Sciences. Key phrases were used in academic search engines, and 50 articles published between 2000 and 2025 were selected. The fundamental competencies included disciplinary knowledge, pedagogical skills, communication, cultural and sociological understanding, empathy, ethics, adaptability, digital literacy, and language proficiency. The specific competencies encompassed technology integration, research and development, clinical mentoring, clinical simulation, assessment and feedback, continuous growth, and curriculum internationalization. Faculty preparation in the Health Sciences must adapt to a changing academic and professional environment, emphasizing research, collaborative, and ethical competencies in line with the needs of the society in which the future professional will be integrated.
Copyright (c) 2025 Doménica Denisse Villacís Ponce, Nahin I. Defas, Henry A. Farfán, Jessica E. Silva, Kelly L. Rosado https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effectiveness of adherence to nutritional therapy in type 2 diabetics on hemodialysis
Type 2 diabetes is one of the leading causes of chronic kidney disease, and its treatment through hemodialysis requires strict adherence to nutritional therapy. This study evaluated anthropometric and biochemical parameters, as well as the degree of dietary adherence, in 87 patients with diabetic nephropathy undergoing hemodialysis in Ecuador. Serial measurements were conducted over a six-month period, and the DDFQ questionnaire was used to assess adherence to dietary and fluid restrictions. Significant sex-based differences were observed in waist, arm, and calf circumferences (p<0.001), as well as in phosphorus and potassium levels (p≤0.05). A total of 48% of patients showed a moderate deviation from the diet, and 34% a severe deviation. Significant correlations were found between the degree of dietary non-adherence and levels of albumin, creatinine, phosphorus, and potassium, suggesting that these biochemical markers may reflect nutritional adherence. No significant correlations were found between fluid restriction adherence and any other variables. These findings underscore the importance of enhancing nutritional education among hemodialysis patients and support the use of the DDFQ as a valuable tool for monitoring adherence to nutritional therapy.
Copyright (c) 2025 Patricio Salazar, Hazel Anderson https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
E-cigarette use and potential lung cancer risk: a systematic review
The use of electronic cigarettes has significantly increased in recent years, particularly among young populations, raising concerns about their potential impact on respiratory health. This systematic review aimed to synthesize the available evidence regarding the association between electronic cigarette use and the risk of developing lung cancer. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and review articles published in English between 2015 and 2024 were included, while studies with limited or outdated information were excluded. The findings indicate that the aerosols produced by these devices contain various toxic and potentially carcinogenic substances. However, current evidence remains insufficient to establish a definitive causal relationship between vaping and the onset of lung cancer. There is a clear need for long-term longitudinal studies to comprehensively assess the chronic effects of electronic cigarette use on pulmonary health.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jordy M. Villavicencio, Saúl A. Coloma, Zulymar H. Véliz, Lailimar V. Turibbi, Alisson A. Espinoza, María A. Rivadeneira, Judith Galarza https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Management of sexually transmitted diseases at the Jipijapa Type B Health Center, Ecuador
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) continue to be a major challenge for global health due to their high level of prevalence and complications. This study identified key factors to improve the effectiveness of primary care in detecting and managing STDs. The literature on the prevalence and treatment of STDs in primary care was reviewed using a cross-sectional approach. The importance of early detection and appropriate management was highlighted in order to reduce complications such as infertility and the risk of HIV transmission. The barriers identified include lack of resources, social stigma, and insufficient sexual education, especially in low-income countries. The study concludes with recommendations to improve health personnel training and implement educational programs encouraging patient participation in preventing and treating STDs.
Copyright (c) 2025 Génesis F. Zambrano, Saimon S. Villamar, Dayana M. Rodríguez, Michel L. Cárdenas, Bayron S. Burgos, Diego A. Talledo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Dialysis is a vital treatment for patients with chronic kidney failure, enabling the removal of metabolic waste and excess fluids when the kidneys cease to function. Although the idea of blood purification dates back to ancient times, Willem Kolff revolutionized the field by developing the first artificial kidney in 1943, earning the title "Father of Dialysis". This essay examines the historical evolution of dialysis, highlighting the challenges Kolff faced and his medical legacy. Before his innovation, chronic kidney failure was almost invariably fatal due to the lack of effective treatments. Earlier researchers such as Nollet, Dutrochet, and Graham laid the scientific foundation by studying osmosis and diffusion, essential dialysis principles. During World War II, Kolff built the first artificial kidney using rudimentary materials, successfully saving a patient’s life in 1945. Later, he refined this technology in the United States and contributed to developing advanced medical devices. Kolff's invention transformed kidney failure from a fatal condition to a manageable disease, although economic and infrastructural barriers still hinder global access. His legacy inspires modern medicine, emphasizing the importance of innovation in healthcare.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nayeli Tejena, Justhyn Loor, Nathalia Campos, Gina Mendoza, Odalis Vera, Claudia T. Cabrerizo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Arterial hypertension and diabetes mellitus type II in the community El Gramal, Portoviejo
Arterial hypertension and type II diabetes mellitus are chronic non-communicable diseases that affect the quality of life of the population of El Gramal. The aim of this study was to analyze the prevalence and risk factors associated with both diseases in a sample of 261 people. The research was conducted between June and August 2023, using a descriptive and cross-sectional approach. The results showed that 72.55% of the participants had arterial hypertension, while 27.45% had type II diabetes mellitus. Factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, a diet rich in carbohydrates, and alcohol consumption significantly influenced the prevalence of these diseases. The study concluded that unhealthy lifestyles are a key factor in the development of hypertension and diabetes in the community, underscoring the need to implement interventions to improve lifestyles and control these chronic conditions.
Copyright (c) 2025 Andrés S. Palma, Diomedes W. Bravo, Jared F. García, Joseph B. Cevallos, Leonardo Camejo, Walter G. Villavicencio https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Health diagnosis of the Cañales de Bijahual community, Portoviejo, period June - September 2023
This study examines the health situation of the Cañales de Bijahual community, Abdón Calderón, Portoviejo canton, during the period June-September 2023. It is a cross-sectional, descriptive, and observational research with a mixed quantitative-qualitative approach. Data collection included demographic characterization, living conditions, and the main health problems of the community. The results revealed a heterogeneous population structure by age and sex, with identified dispensary groups associated with communicable diseases such as dengue and non-communicable chronic diseases like hypertension and type II diabetes mellitus. Additionally, the primary barriers to accessing health services were found to be related to the community's geographic location, which contributes to the persistence of these health issues. In conclusion, it is essential to implement intervention strategies that promote access to health services and educational programs focused on preventing and managing these diseases, aiming to improve the population's quality of life and prevent long-term complications.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nelson E. Andrade, Joseph G. Espejero, Emily S. Monroy, Daver S. Párraga, Zulema Ávila, Patricia M. Espinel https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Lifestyles associated with sedentary lifestyles in the community Quebrada “La Paja”, Ecuador
A sedentary lifestyle, defined as the practice of physical activity for less than 15 minutes and less than three times per week, is a modifiable factor in chronic noncommunicable diseases. This study aimed to analyze the lifestyles associated with sedentary lifestyles in the Quebrada “La Paja” community in Portoviejo. A non-experimental, cross-sectional, exploratory, and descriptive study was conducted with 103 people from 24 families. The results indicated that most of the population leads a sedentary lifestyle, with low consumption of fruits and vegetables. In addition, a sedentary lifestyle was related to specific occupations and low educational levels; 29.17% of the participants did not perform any physical activity. It was concluded that work occupation, low educational level, and unhealthy eating habits are key factors in sedentary lifestyles.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jelitza N. Carranza, Allison M. Ganchozo, Kristel J. Hidalgo, Sthela P. Morán, Yumy E. Fernández, Wilmer B. Cedeño https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Lifestyles of the residents of the Quebrada “La Paja” community, Ecuador
The study examines the lifestyles of Ecuador's Quebrada “La Paja” community inhabitants, highlighting their impact on health. It is established that lifestyles are crucial to quality of life and that an unbalanced diet and sedentary lifestyle can lead to chronic diseases. The methodology included surveys of 113 people in the community, spanning various ages and genders, to assess their dietary habits and physical activity levels. The results revealed that although most respondents were active through daily work and recreational activities such as soccer, there was also a high consumption of television as a form of leisure, which could contribute to sedentary lifestyles. It is concluded that, despite regular physical activity, the community faces health risks due to inadequate eating habits and a lack of awareness about the importance of a healthy lifestyle, highlighting the need for educational and public health interventions.
Copyright (c) 2025 Lisa M. Alcívar, Juriana N. Briones, Junior A. Mendoza, Ana C. Reyes, Driannet Castillo, Manuel A. Mendoza https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Poverty as a determinant associated with the main diseases identified in inhabitants of Lodana, Ecuador
This research addressed the close relationship between poverty and the prevalence of diseases in the Lodana parish, Santa Ana, Manabí, Ecuador. Its main objective was to analyze how poverty influences health by identifying the primary diseases in a vulnerable population and exploring contextually adapted interventions to improve access to healthcare. A descriptive cross-sectional study methodology was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative analysis through surveys and semi-structured interviews with a sample of thirty people. The most relevant results revealed that poverty, as a social determinant, significantly impacts health, limiting access to essential services, education, and adequate living conditions. The conclusions emphasize the need to implement public policies that address geographic and socioeconomic disparities to promote equitable and sustainable socioeconomic development in Ecuador's most disadvantaged regions.
Copyright (c) 2025 Valeria D. Macias, Melany M. Macías, Odalis D. Sánchez, Romina A. Veloz, Edith M. Véliz, Andrés Moreno https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
James Barry: between scalpels and secrets, a life that defied the norms
James Barry, born like Margaret Ann Bulkley, faced rigid 19th-century rules after adopting a male identity to access medicine, a field forbidden to women. Her career included notable achievements such as the first documented Caesarean section in the British Empire with the survival of both mother and child, and reforms in military hospitals that improved sanitary conditions. Barry also promoted vaccination campaigns for marginalized groups, such as prisoners and lepers, revolutionizing public health. She performed as a good character and her obsession with hygiene and surgical innovation made her an influential figure. Her relationship with Lord Charles Somerset protected her secret, but generated controversies that marked her career. After her death, the discovery of her biological sex unleashed a scandal that did not overshadow her history in medicine.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jefferson J. Gutiérrez, Joseph J. Castro, Vicente A. Franco, Irene N. Panta, Arnaldo E. Quiroz https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Bioethics and health in times of climate crisis: an analysis of the book "Climate change: let’s act from the Health sector"
The book "Climate Change: Let’s Act from the Health Sector" by Eugenio Radamés Borroto Cruz and Patricia María Jiménez López, published in 2024 by Editorial San Gregorio (Portoviejo, Ecuador), is a fundamental work that connects the ethical, scientific, and practical challenges of climate change with public health. Divided into eight chapters, this publication combines scientific rigor and ethical sensitivity to emphasize the urgency of addressing climate change from the health sector and other interconnected areas. From the introduction, the authors highlight the severity of climate change as the principal risk to public health in the 21st century. This is a multidimensional phenomenon with implications ranging from heat waves and vector-borne diseases to food insecurity and forced migrations.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mario A. García https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
San Gregorio de Portoviejo University: 24 years of commitment to training professionals in Health Sciences
Last December, the Universidad San Gregorio de Portoviejo (USGP) proudly celebrated its 24th anniversary, marking almost a quarter of a century of contributions to the region and Ecuador's academic, scientific, and social development. In this context, we would like to dedicate this editorial to highlighting the growth and consolidation of careers in the ​​Health Sciences, pillars in the institution's history, and future projections.
Modifiable risk factors that influence the prevalence of diabetes mellitus II in the Quebrada “La Paja” community
Diabetes mellitus II is a common health problem associated with cultural and social changes, in addition to a sedentary lifestyle, lack of physical activity, and an unbalanced diet. The influence of lifestyles on the prevalence of diabetes mellitus II in the Quebrada “La Paja” community was analyzed. A cross-sectional, descriptive, observational research was conducted from April to September 2023. The most prevalent risk factors were coffee consumption, alcoholism, and smoking. The majority of the general population did not engage in physical activities. The influence of lifestyles and the prevalence of diabetes mellitus II was demonstrated. The findings indicated that unhealthy eating habits, sedentary lifestyle, and consumption of substances such as coffee, alcohol, and tobacco were modifiable risk factors that contribute to the increase in diabetes mellitus II.
Copyright (c) 2025 Luis Á. Astudillo, Karen A. Chica, Génesis N. Sánchez, Jimmy E. Álvarez, María J. Guzmán https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Knowledge and application of bioethical principles among healthcare staff in the emergency department of Portoviejo General Hospital
The present study determined the level of knowledge and application of bioethical principles in health personnel in the emergency area of the Portoviejo General Hospital. A quantitative, observational, descriptive, cross-sectional, and correlational design was used, with a sample of 67 professionals selected through simple probabilistic sampling. A questionnaire about the level of knowledge of bioethical principles and a checklist to evaluate their application in clinical practice were used to collect the data. The data were processed through the Shapiro-Wilk test to assess their normality, and analysis of variance was performed. Additionally, the odds ratio determined the association between the level of knowledge and the application of bioethical principles. The results showed an equitable distribution by sex, a predominance of professionals between 35 and 44 years old, and a majority residing in Portoviejo. 30% of the staff showed limited knowledge of bioethical principles, and 20.90% did not apply them consistently, revealing a gap between theoretical knowledge and its practical application. Age had a significant effect (p ≤ 0.05) on knowledge and application of ethical principles, while sex did not show a relevant influence. These results show the need to improve bioethics training among health personnel in the emergency area and suggest the implementation of interventions aimed at closing the gap between knowledge and practice of these principles.
Copyright (c) 2024 Mauro H. Macías, María V. Moreira, Alfredo L. Marín https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Risk factors associated with high blood pressure in older adults at El Mate community
High blood pressure (HBP) corresponds to one of the main global public health problems according to the Pan American Health Organization, where it has been indicated that it is the main risk factor for suffering from cardiovascular diseases. The objective is to describe the impact of risk factors associated with high blood pressure in older adults in the El Mate community belonging to the Santa Ana canton. For this, an experimental study was carried out, with a sample of 20 people. Data collection was carried out through a structured survey about HBP. As such, it affected older adults between the ages of 65 and 70 by 70%. In addition, other risk factors related to the lack of control routines, lack of awareness, the existence of bad lifestyles, socioeconomic problems and lack of knowledge of the disease.
Copyright (c) 2024 Gary M. Palacios, John W. Cedeño, Pablo A. Intriago https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Health determinants in the quality of life of older adults in the 24 de Mayo canton, Manabí
The objective of this research was to identify the main health determinants affecting older adults in Manabí, with a special focus on chronic diseases, quality of life, and socioeconomic factors. The results show high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, exacerbated by excessive alcohol and tobacco consumption. Additionally, insufficient sleep patterns negatively impact their overall well-being. In terms of nutrition, their diet, primarily based on carbohydrates, reflects economic limitations and restricted access to fresh foods, leading to potential nutritional imbalances. Although some express satisfaction with health services, a significant proportion believes that care does not meet their needs, highlighting deficiencies in resources and infrastructure. These issues underline the need to implement comprehensive policies that promote the well-being of this vulnerable group, addressing emotional, behavioral, social, and economic aspects to ensure their quality of life and respect for their rights.
Copyright (c) 2024 Tyron Armas, María G. Pin, Nahomy A. García, Milka A. Roldán, Patricio J. Chimbo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0