Sílvia Font-Mayolas’s research while affiliated with Universitat de Girona and other places

INTRODUCTION Tobacco use remains a significant public health issue worldwide, causing over 7 million deaths annually. Polytobacco use has become a common phenomenon. This study aims to analyze reasons for cigarette and tobacco product use, dual use and poly use among university students by sex, in China and Cyprus, selected owing to their still high consumption rates. METHODS An online survey was conducted among 589 university students (55% women) with a mean age of 24.2 years from Guangzhou, China, and the Republic of Cyprus. Participants reported their use of cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and waterpipes, as well as their reasons for using these products. Statistical analyses included chi-squared tests, and effect sizes were computed using the phi (φ) coefficient. RESULTS The Chinese participants gave as reasons for using cigarettes: ‘because of the taste’, ‘because it looks cool’, ‘to get high’ and ‘because friends and family use them’. These were less frequently given by the Cypriots who opted more for ‘to relax and relieve tension’. Compared to the Cypriot participants, the more frequent reasons given for consuming e-cigarettes and waterpipes among Chinese students were: ‘due to boredom’, ‘because it looks cool’, ‘to get high’, ‘because I am hooked’, ‘because friends or family members use them’, ‘because they are less harmful than regular cigarettes’ and ‘because friends of family members allow their use more’. Dual or poly users felt more addicted than those who practiced single use. Among e-cigarette users, dual users and poly users valued the taste of the product more than single users. In general, men found more reasons for tobacco use than women did. CONCLUSIONS This study shows substantial differences in the motivation for using these products according to the product type, number of tobacco/nicotine products used, country, and sex. Understanding the reasons for tobacco use can inform targeted interventions aimed at reducing tobacco consumption among young adults.

The increasing occurrence of singlehood raises the question of whether people enjoy greater emotional wellbeing alone or in an intimate relationship. Guided by an evolutionary theoretical framework of human emotions, the current research aimed to address whether individuals are emotionally better off single than in an intimate relationship, taking a cross-cultural perspective. The quality of the relationship is also crucial; thus, the study also aimed to determine whether individuals in a good or bad intimate relationship differ from each other and from those who are single in terms of emotional wellbeing. In a sample of 6338 participants from 12 nations, we found that singles experienced lower emotional wellbeing and life satisfaction than those in relationships. More specifically, participants who were in a relationship or married reported the highest life satisfaction and emotional wellbeing, while those involuntarily single reported the lowest levels, with individuals who are between relationships or voluntarily single reporting intermediate levels. Additionally, participants in a good relationship experienced higher emotional wellbeing and life satisfaction than those in a bad relationship. The findings among the involuntarily single participants were similarly negative, but to a lesser extent than those in a bad relationship. These results were consistent across the different nations in our sample.

Introduction Suicide is a serious and complex public health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Among the most vulnerable populations are homeless individuals (HIs), whose suicide rate is significantly higher than that of the general population. Objectives The aim of this study was to analyze mortality and suicidal behavior in a cohort of HIs during a seven-year follow-up. Additionally, the study sought to identify variables linked to mortality in this population. Methods The study was conducted in the province of Girona, Spain, and included 154 HIs who were literally experiencing homelessness. Self-report questionnaires were used to gather sociodemographic data, assess suicide risk, and measure the severity of substance dependence. The follow-up was carried out between 2015 and 2022, collecting data on mortality, suicide attempts, episodes of overdose, and violence experienced from public health services (psychiatric and primary health care services). Results During the seven-year follow-up, 23 individuals (14.3% of the sample) passed away, with an average age at the time of death of 52.6 years. The main causes of death were cancer, suicide (excluding overdose), and accidental overdose. Methods used for suicide included drug overdose, jumping, and vein slashing. All deceased individuals had scores above the threshold on the Plutchik Suicide Risk Scale and had reported previous suicide attempts. Individuals who experienced violence during the follow-up period exhibited more severe suicidal ideation, more suicide attempts, and more non-lethal overdose episodes. Substance dependence, particularly cocaine dependence and dual pathology, was significantly associated with higher mortality. Conclusions This study reveals a high mortality rate among HIs, especially due to suicide and accidental overdose. The most significant variables related to mortality were suicidal ideation, the number of previous non-lethal overdoses, and substance use disorders, with cocaine dependence being prominent. The results underscore the need for specific prevention and treatment programs to address suicide risk factors and improve the mental health of homeless individuals. The importance of conducting interventions in specialized centers that detect and address suicide risk in this vulnerable population is also emphasized. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction This study examines the prevalence of drug use and substance dependence among university students majoring in Social Education at the University of Girona, aiming to comprehend its impact on the mental health of this population. Objectives To determine the prevalence of drug use and substance dependence among university students majoring in Social Education at the University of Girona and to examine gender differences in consumption patterns. Methods A cross-sectional, observational, and analytical design was employed. The study population consisted of 258 enrolled students in the program. Convenience sampling was used, with a sample size of 156 students, confidence level of 95%, and margin of error of 5%. The final obtained sample size was n=161. An ad hoc questionnaire was used to collect data on general characteristics and drug use. Statistical analysis included Pearson’s Chi-square tests and Student’s t-tests. Results A total of 161 students participated (88.2% females, 11.2% males), with an average age of 21.61 years. Among them, 75.8% grew up in structured families, while 24.2% came from dysfunctional families. Regarding socioeconomic status, 4.3% considered themselves from a low-class background, 32.9% from low-middle class, 51.6% from middle class, and 11.2% from upper-middle class. Substance dependence was identified in 29.2% of the participants: alcohol (20.3%), MDMA (11.1%), cocaine (10.3%), psychopharmaceuticals (4.8%), and hallucinogenic mushrooms (4.0%). No significant differences were found in SDS scale scores for determining dependence thresholds for any substances except for cannabis (Males = 6.13 vs. Females = 1.80, t = 3.886, df = 83, p < .001). A total of 55.6% of males showed substance dependence compared to 25.7% of females (X^2 = 6.853, df = 1, p = .009). Conclusions This study highlights a concerning prevalence of drug use and substance dependence among university students majoring in Social Education at the university, with certain gender-based consumption pattern differences. These findings emphasize the urgency of intervention approaches targeting mental health and substance prevention in this specific population. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction This project proposes a program for the promotion of mental health and prevention of suicidal behavior among individuals experiencing homelessness, with the aim of reducing suicidal ideation and suicide mortality within this vulnerable population. Objectives The project aims to implement an evidence-based program to reduce suicidal ideation and suicide mortality among homeless individuals. This will be achieved through two phases: a review of scientific literature and the development of the program in collaboration with experts and homeless individuals. Methods The first phase of the project involved a review of scientific literature to identify the most effective content and programs for improving mental health and preventing suicide. These findings were adapted for application in the program and for dissemination to professionals who will directly engage with individuals experiencing homelessness. In the second phase, the program content was designed in collaboration with experts and validated through the input of educational professionals. Additionally, individuals experiencing homelessness actively participated in the creation of materials and the definition of the approach to be utilized. Subsequently, a four-hour training was provided to professionals working in specialized homeless shelters to guide groups of individuals experiencing homelessness. Results The program consists of the following components: - Training and Awareness: Workshops and campaigns to reduce the stigma surrounding suicide. - Early Detection and Risk Assessment: Staff training in recognizing suicide indicators and risk assessment protocols. - Psychological and Social Interventions: Crisis teams, individual and group therapy. - Access to Services: Mobile mental health clinics and collaborations with healthcare professionals. - Ongoing Support and Monitoring: Temporary housing programs and support groups. Conclusions The proposed program seeks to mitigate the risk of suicide among individuals experiencing homelessness through a comprehensive approach. The collaboration of experts and homeless individuals ensures that the solutions are appropriate and effective. The implementation of this program has the potential to make a significant difference in promoting mental health and preventing suicide within this vulnerable population. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential relationship between stressful events experienced in childhood and subsequent toxic substance consumption among university students majoring in Social Education at a Spanish university during the academic year 2022-2023. Objectives The primary objective is to analyze whether an association exists between stressful life events in childhood and patterns of substance consumption among university students. Methods A cross-sectional, observational, and analytical design was employed. The target population encompassed 258 students enrolled in the Social Education program in 2023. The final sample consisted of 161 students. A questionnaire incorporating the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire - Short Form (CTQ-SF) and the Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS) was administered to assess trauma history and substance consumption. Results A high percentage (95.03%) of students reported having consumed toxic substances at some point in their lives. The most common substances were alcohol (95.03%) and cannabis (52.8%). A statistically significant correlation was observed between childhood emotional abuse and increased alcohol consumption currently (p = 0.015). Furthermore, a significant relationship was identified between childhood sexual abuse and heightened alcohol consumption (p = 0.015). Moreover, positive correlations were found between sexual abuse and the consumption of specific drugs, such as cocaine and psychopharmaceuticals (p < 0.05). No statistically significant differences were observed in drug consumption with regard to other forms of childhood maltreatment, such as emotional or physical neglect. Conclusions The results underscore the connection between childhood stress experiences and substance consumption among university students. Emotional and sexual abuse in childhood are linked to higher alcohol consumption and, in some cases, specific drugs like cocaine and psychopharmaceuticals. These findings emphasize the importance of considering traumatic experiences when addressing prevention and treatment strategies for substance consumption among young student populations. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction The mortality rate among individuals experiencing homelessness tends to be premature and is linked to mental disorders and chronic diseases. In Spain, there is a significant gap in the study of mortality among individuals in situations of residential exclusion with real clinical data. Objectives This study aims to analyze mortality among individuals experiencing homelessness and its relationship with mental disorders and chronic diseases. Methods An observational and prospective longitudinal study was conducted on a cohort of 855 homeless individuals in the province of Girona over a 15-year period. Sociodemographic variables, mental health conditions, chronic diseases, and infections were analyzed, employing descriptive and inferential analyses. A binary logistic regression model was created to establish explanatory relationships between mortality and associated variables. Results Among the participants, 87.7% were males with an average age of 53.03 years. A majority of 62.8% were foreign-born, mainly from Africa and Europe. It was identified that 40.8% had mental disorders, with substance dependencies (41.3%) and other disorders (36.4%) being the most prevalent. A total of 30.6% presented chronic diseases, notably hypertension (12.8%) and type 2 diabetes (10.9%). Furthermore, 22.3% had infections, with hepatitis C virus (8.7%) and HIV (4.7%) being the most common. During the follow-up period, 81 individuals (16.4%) passed away, with causes such as cancer (25%), suicide (21.7%), and heart conditions (11.7%). The regression analysis demonstrated that age (OR = 0.915; 95% CI 0.884-0.947), alcohol addiction (OR = 2.354; 95% CI 1.486-3.731), and being born in Spain (OR = 2.906; 95% CI 1.594-5.299) were significantly associated with mortality in the homeless population. Conclusions This study highlights the high prevalence of mental disorders, chronic diseases, and infections among individuals experiencing homelessness. Mortality was associated with factors such as age, alcohol addiction, and place of birth. These findings underscore the importance of developing interventions aimed at enhancing the health and care of individuals experiencing homelessness, particularly within the immigrant population. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Background: We aimed to study anxiety, depression and quality of life in smokers after stroke by sex. Methods: A longitudinal prospective study with a 24-month follow-up of acute stroke patients who were previously active smokers. Anxiety and depression were evaluated with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale, and quality of life was evaluated with the EQ-5D questionnaire. Results: One hundred and eighty patients participated (79.4% men); their mean age was 57.6 years. Anxiety was most prevalent at 3 months (18.9% in men and 40.5% in women) and depression at 12 months (17.9% in men and 27% in women). The worst perceived health occurred at 24 months (EQ-VAS 67.5 in men and 65.1 in women), which was associated with depression (p < 0.001) and Rankin Scale was worse in men (p < 0.001) and depression in women (p < 0.001). Continued tobacco use was associated with worse perceived health at 3 months in men (p = 0.034) and at 12 months in both sexes. Predictor variables of worse perceived health at 24 months remaining at 3 and 12 months were tobacco use in men and neurological damage in women. Conclusion: Differences by sex are observed in the prevalence of anxiety and depression and associated factors and in the predictive factors of perceived health.

Background:: There is a significant gap in scientific understanding about suicide among people experiencing homelessness (PEHs). Method:: This seven-year longitudinal study examined a cohort of 154 PEHs. In 2015, clinical assessments were conducted, including an evaluation of suicide risk, with data on causes of death collected from public health service records in 2022. Results:: Over the course of seven years, 14.3% of the sample passed away at an average age of 52.6 years. The leading causes of death were cancer, suicide, and accidental overdose. Participants who experienced violence had a higher number of suicide attempts and scored higher on the suicidal ideation scale. The most significant factors associated with mortality were prior suicide attempts and suicidal ideation. Conclusions:: This study underscores the importance of suicide risk scale scores as the primary predictor of mortality. It emphasizes the need for further longitudinal research on suicide among PEHs and the development of specific programs to prevent suicide within this population. An approach combining structural and individual perspectives is suggested, considering appropriate housing policies and mental health care.