ESSa - Resumos em Proceedings Não Indexados à WoS/Scopus
Permanent URI for this collection
Browse
Recent Submissions
- Oral Contraceptive pill and psychoaffective effectsPublication . Coelho, André; Folga, Marta; Sousa, Simão; Nascimento, Luís; Taboada Costa, Xavier; Mangoni, ArduinoBackground: Oral contraceptive pills (OCP’s) are widely used for fertility control, yet their potential psychoaffective impact is increasingly debated in clinical research (1). Studies show that users may experience increased negative effects and reduced emotional well-being compared to non-users (2). Experimental data further suggest that hormonal contraception can significantly lower general well-being in healthy women (3). Objective: To assess how the use of OCPs and age are associated with the expression of positive and negative psychoaffective effects. Methodology: A cross-sectional, observational, and descriptive-correlational study with a quantitative approach. The non-probabilistic convenience sample included 291 women (aged 18-44) residing in Northern Portugal. Data were collected through an online questionnaire, which included the scale Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS-SF). Considering the type of variables, statistical analyses included the Kolmogorov-Smirnov, t-student, and ANOVA tests (p ⩽ 0.05). Results: OCP users reported lower levels of positive affect (M=28.40; SD=8.83) compared to non-users (M=34.51; SD=9.07; p⩽ 0.001). Regarding negative affect, users showed higher levels (M=25.31; SD=10.42) than non-users (M=19.96; SD=7.55; p⩽ 0.001). No significant differences were observed between the age groups (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The findings suggest an association between OCP use and a less favourable emotional profile, regardless of age. This raises critical ethical and clinical concerns about the underestimation of the psycho-subjective effects of oral contraception. In this context, it would be pertinent to consider measures such as periodic psychological follow-up, regular emotional screening, and informative sessions involving mental health professionals.
- Medication use during pregnancy: patterns and associated factorsPublication . Medina, Flávia; Rodrigues, Leandra; Coelho, Joana; Nascimento, Luís; Mangoni, ArduinoPregnancy causes physiological changes that can increase vulnerability to illness and alter drug pharmacokinetics, while some medications cross the placenta and affect foetal development, especially during organogenesis. These risks highlight the importance of careful monitoring and support regulatory updates such as the FDA’s 2015 revision of pregnancy risk categories. Objectives: To identify factors associated with medicine use during pregnancy and describe consumption patterns among pregnant women in northeastern Trás-os-Montes, Portugal. Methods: A cross-sectional, quantitative, descriptive and correlational study was conducted with 205 women from Bragança and Mirandela, all of whom had experienced at least one pregnancy. Data were collected between April and June 2023 using a structured questionnaire adapted from Guerra et al. (2008) [2]. Results: A total of 79.5% reported using medication during pregnancy. The most used substances were folic acid (12.2%), paracetamol (29.3%), and doxylamine-pyridoxine (23.4%). The most frequent groups included dietary supplements, analgesics, and antiemetics. Although supplements are not classified as medicines, their inclusion is justified due to widespread use and relevance during pregnancy. A statistically significant association was found between age and medicine use (p < 0.01). Most women reported having received professional guidance and being aware of the associated risks. Conclusion: Women in northeastern Trás-os-Montes demonstrated awareness of medication risks and used medicines under professional supervision, despite few reporting complications. These results underline the importance of ongoing education and the role of healthcare professionals in ensuring safe medicine use during pregnancy.
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder adhd drug use in the context of a sars cov 2 pandemicPublication . Magalhães, Ismael; Nascimento, Luís; Coelho, Joana; ArduinoAttention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood. Pharmacological treatment, primarily with methylphenidate, is widely used [2,3]. This study evaluates ADHD drug consumption patterns before and during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Objectives: To analyse the consumption of ADHD medicines in community pharmacies in Bragança before and during the SARSCoV-2 pandemic. Methods: A retrospective, observational, and quantitative study was conducted using data from eight pharmacies between 2018 and 2021. Data were collected through Sifarma and 4DigitalCare software and analysed using SPSS and Excel. Results: Medicine consumption was higher in the pre-pandemic period (2018–2019, 50.97%) than during the pandemic (2020–2021, 49.19%). However, 2021 recorded the highest annual consumption (27%). Ritalin© LA 20mg was the most dispensed medicine. The autumn season showed the highest usage. There was variability in dispensing volumes between pharmacies. Conclusions: The pandemic led to a temporary reduction in ADHD medicine use. Nevertheless, the increased consumption in 2021 suggests a possible delayed pharmacological response due to prolonged confinement. These findings underscore the impact of public health crises on the management of chronic conditions and highlight the need for consistent support for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders.
- Home medicine storage assessment of domestic medication storage conditions in the municipalities of bragança melgaço and mondim de bastoPublication . Rei, Ana; Ribeiro, Francisca; Pereira, Márcia; Ferreira, Marta Daniela; Pereira, Sara; Coelho, Joana; Nascimento, Luís; ArduinoBackground: Medicines are often stored at home for emergencies or the treatment of acute and chronic conditions. However, improper storage—such as exposure to heat or humidity, or easy accessibility—can reduce efficacy and pose safety risks. These practices are frequently linked to limited health literacy and lack of pharmaceutical guidance. This study aimed to evaluate household medication storage conditions in Bragança, Melgaço, and Mondim de Basto, examining the influence of sociodemographic variables and residents’ awareness of proper storage. Methods: A cross-sectional, quantitative, descriptive-correlational study was carried out using a structured online questionnaire with four sections: sociodemographic data, education, storage habits, and self-perceived knowledge. The questionnaire, while not formally validated, was based on existing literature. A nonprobabilistic sample of 1126 residents aged ⩾18 years participated. Data were analysed using SPSS, with descriptive statistics and ANOVA to explore associations between storage practices and gender, age, and education. Results: Age, gender, and municipality did not significantly influence storage habits (p > 0.05), but education level was significant in Melgaço (p < 0.05). Participants stored medicines in diverse locations, such as kitchen or bathroom cabinets. Melgaço residents more often considered temperature and humidity. Examples of appropriate (e.g., keeping original packaging) and inappropriate (e.g., exposure to moisture) practices were reported. Conclusions: Educational level may influence medication storage practices. Tailored public health strategies and pharmaceutical counselling are essential to promote safe and rational medicine storage. Despite the absence of post-training evaluation, the findings highlight the need for awareness-raising interventions.
- Artificial intelligence tools in community pharmacy: a literature reviewPublication . Castro, Francisco; Pires, Gonçalo; Pinto, Isabel C.; Cunha, José; Nascimento, Luís; Taboada Costa, Xavier; Mangoni, ArduinoCommunity pharmacies play a vital role in public health, serving as the first point of contact for many patients. With the increasing workload and complexity of care, artificial intelligence (AI) is being explored as a way to enhance pharmaceutical services [1-3]. Objective: This literature review aims to explore the current AI-based hardware and software technologies applied in community pharmacy, the barriers to their implementation, and their impact on pharmaceutical care. Methodology: A literature review was conducted using PubMed, focusing on articles from 2020 to 2025. Keywords included “artificial intelligence”, “community pharmacy”, “hardware”, “software” and “robots”. Inclusion criteria prioritized full-text studies of scoping reviews, systematic reviews or narrative reviews, about AI applications in community pharmacy. Results: The review identified a variety of AI tools, such as dispensing robots, decision-support systems, inventory management platforms, and chatbots. Benefits reported include improved medication adherence (up to +40%), reduced dispensing errors (up to -75%), and increased operational efficiency. Major implementation barriers are high costs, insufficient training, lack of technological infrastructure, and data privacy concerns. Conclusion: AI technologies offer promising opportunities to optimize processes and enhance patient safety in community pharmacy. However, successful integration requires strategic investment in training, infrastructure, and ethical safeguards to ensure safe and effective use.
- Impact of the covid-19 pandemic on the consumption of immunological supplements among higher education studentsPublication . Graça, Ânnia; Afonseca, Giovanni; Delgado, Levinior; Midões, Cristiana; Nascimento, Luís; ArduinoScientific evidence has shown that supplementation with micronutrients, including vitamins C, D, and E, as well as zinc and selenium, plays a key role in supporting immune function, thereby helping to reduce susceptibility to infections, including respiratory infections. In addition, recent analyses have shown that the use of nutritional supplements, particularly antioxidants and vitamins, can be beneficial during the post-COVID-19 recovery process, promoting an improvement in overall health and reducing persistent chronic inflammation. Objectives: To characterize the consumption of immune supplements before and after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic among students at the Health School of the Polytechnic University of Bragança. Methods: Descriptive-correlational study, based on an online survey with 19 questions, applied to health students enrolled in 2021/2022 (⩾18 years old). The sample (n=320) was calculated based on a 95% confidence interval and 5% margin of error. Results: The majority of students (77%) reported awareness of immune supplements, and 63.5% stated they used them to support immune health. Consumption increased in 71.7% of cases after the start of the pandemic, with 85.4% indicating use only during specific periods. The most commonly used supplement contained vitamin C. Decisions to use supplements were primarily personal (40.4%) or based on informal advice. Notably, 56.3% began supplementation after the pandemic began. Conclusion: The findings reveal lasting changes in the health behaviours of higher education students, with a high perceived usefulness of immune-related food supplements even after the peak of the pandemic.
- Occupational stress in community pharmacy professionals: a cross-sectional studyPublication . Pinto, Daniela; Oliveira, Kayabí; Almeida, Marta; Nascimento, Luís; Taboada Costa, Xavier; ArduinoThe study of mental health in health professionals, including community pharmacy professionals, is relevant due to their continuous exposure to emotionally stressful situations. Work-related stress, burnout and intense routine significantly affect the quality of life. Objective: To assess the stress levels of pharmacy professionals in the Bragança and Lisbon districts, different regions from Portugal, analysing the influence of sociodemographic and professional variables. Methods: Quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive and correlational study with 127 community pharmacy professionals’ participants. Data were collected through a questionnaire with two parts: one for sociodemographic variables (gender, age, marital status, number of children, professional role, chronic illness, physical activity, and salary), and the second for assessing stress using the QSO-VG scale. Results: Stress levels were similar between Bragança (1.78) and Lisbon (1.82). The main reported causes of stress included lack of time with family and friends, work overload, inadequate salary, and negative attitudes from users. Only gender showed a statistically significant association with stress: men reported higher stress levels in Bragança (2.04), while women reported higher levels in Lisbon (1.92). No significant associations were found with the other sociodemographic variables studied. Conclusion: There was no significant stress level’s difference between different regions from Portugal. However, stress levels are significant in these regions, and it is necessary to improve working conditions and reduce the workload of the pharmacy professional’s community.
- Self-medicationPublication . Mota, Inês; Mendes, Isabel; Almeida, João; Pires, Maria Francisca; Pires, Tânia C.S.P.; Nascimento, Luís; Mangoni, ArduinoSelf-medication allows individuals to treat minor health issues without a medical prescription, facilitated by the availability of over-thecounter (OTC) medicines [1,2]. This practice requires healthcare professionals, particularly pharmacists, to play a key role in ensuring the safe and rational use of medicines. Objectives: This study aimed to understand the motivations behind self-medication in Portugal and to promote informed and responsible behaviour among the population. Methods: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted between February and June 2025 via an online questionnaire. The target sample was 385 individuals, with a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error. A total of 377 participants, all aged 20 or above and residing in mainland Portugal, completed the questionnaire. Results: A total of 91.8% reported engaging in self-medication, mostly women (77.7%), young adults aged 20–24 (58.1%), and residents in the North (60.1%). The majority held a university degree (54.9%) and were single (75.7%). The main motivations were prior knowledge (80.1%) and easy access to medicines (36.4%). The most commonly used medicines were non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (87%), antipyretics (67.1%), and antihistamines (32.4%). Although participants showed autonomy in decision-making, healthcare professionals were the main source of influence (51.6%) when purchasing medicines. Conclusions: Self-medication is highly prevalent in Portugal and is largely driven by convenience and confidence. The study assessed motivations through participant responses and sociodemographic data, revealing the importance of health literacy. Responsible self-medication behaviour was promoted through an educational questionnaire and critical data analysis. Strengthening the role of pharmacy professionals is essential in guiding the public and ensuring the rational use of medicines.
- The use of nanopharmaceuticals in the treatment of neoplasms - a reviewPublication . Cruz, Cateline; Midões, Cristiana; Nascimento, Luís; ArduinoCancer is defined by the uncontrolled growth of cells, primarily driven by genetic mutations. Traditional treatments such as surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy frequently fall short due to issues of non-specific targeting and systemic toxicity. However, nanotechnology has decisively emerged as a vital solution to these problems. Nanopharmaceuticals are rigorously formulated, nanoscale pharmaceutical products that have received regulatory approval, while nanoparticle-based therapies represent a broader range of experimental applications. Objectives: This review aims to assertively evaluate the relevance and effectiveness of nanopharmaceuticals in treating neoplasms based on solid scientific evidence. Methods: A systematic review was conducted, leveraging PubMed, MeSH Browser, SciELO, and Web of Science, focusing exclusively on articles published between January 2012 and October 2022 that pertain to nanotherapy for cancer. Studies addressing nanopharmaceuticals in non-cancer conditions or solely concentrating on conventional cancer treatments were rigorously excluded. Results: The analysis of ten selected articles demonstrates that nanoparticle-based therapies provide significant advantages over conventional treatments. These include enhanced intracellular uptake, improved biodistribution, and heightened drug accumulation at tumor sites. Notable nanopharmaceuticals such as SGT-94, BCc1, nab-paclitaxel, and others displayed superior pharmacokinetics and targeted delivery while minimizing systemic toxicity. The majority of studies reported robust safety profiles with manageable side effects and no serious toxicity. Conclusion: Nanomedicine represents a groundbreaking strategy for advancing cancer treatment by enhancing therapeutic precision and reducing adverse side effects. The compelling evidence firmly supports the expanding role of nanopharmaceuticals in oncology. It is imperative that further clinical studies validate their long-term efficacy and safety across larger populations.
- Educação menstrual e saúde de jovens portuguesas - fatores associados à prática da educação físicaPublication . Condessa, Isabel; Fernandes, Sara; Antão, Celeste; Anastácio, ZéliaThomas, Gallagher e Thomas (2001) consideram que as mudanças de competência motora dependem essencialmente de três ordens de fatores: biológicos (p.e. genética, crescimento, puberdade), de envolvimento (p.e. oportunidades, encorajamento) e sua interação (p.e. práticas vivenciadas nas diferentes fases de desenvolvimento). Por outro lado, mais recentemente a Organização Mundial da Saúde (WHO, 2018) referia que os programas de atividade física e desportiva nas escolas, onde se inclui a Educação Física (EF) devem ajudar a desenvolver as capacidades físicas, a aumentar o prazer geral pela atividade física, contrariando o sedentarismo. Para esta organização, ao lado da criação de hábitos de vida positivos, a prática de higiene dos alunos são alguns pontos a reforçar na escola. Contudo, nas escolas em Portugal, as meninas, que adquirem a sua menarca habitualmente a partir dos seus 12/13 anos, defrontamse com fatores de ordem biológica e emocional que, comparativamente com os seus colegas rapazes, criam uma desigualdade de oportunidade para a prática ao exercício físico.