Epidemiology and Health

COVID-19: Original Article

Decentralized pandemic response and health equity: an analysis of socioeconomic disparities in COVID-19 mortality in Japan: Hasan Jamil, Aminu Abubakar Kende, Shuhei Nomura, Fumiya Inoue, Takao Suzuki, Stuart Gilmour; Epidemiol Health. 2025;47:e2025049. Published online August 28, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2025049

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Global data often link greater socioeconomic deprivation to higher coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mortality. However, whether decentralized governance can mitigate this disparity by enabling tailored, equitable local responses remains unclear. We assessed whether Japan’s decentralized pandemic response moderated the association between area-level socioeconomic deprivation and COVID-19 mortality across municipalities.
METHODS
We analyzed 20,760 COVID-19 deaths from all Japanese municipalities during 2020-2021. We computed standardized mortality ratios using national age-specific and sex-specific rates to derive expected counts. We then fit a Bayesian spatial Poisson regression model with the log of expected counts as an offset to estimate smoothed relative risks (RRs). The Area Deprivation Index (ADI) represented the primary predictor; structured and unstructured random effects captured spatial correlation and residual variability.
RESULTS
Mapping of smoothed RRs, categorized into quintiles, revealed higher mortality risk in northern, central, and western municipalities, with lower risk in southern and scattered central regions. Contradicting global trends, deprivation and COVID-19 mortality demonstrated an inverse association (ADI coefficient, -0.095; 95% credible interval, -0.173 to -0.018), indicating that more deprived municipalities exhibited lower RRs for COVID-19 mortality (9.1% reduction per 1-unit increase in ADI).
CONCLUSIONS
The inverse relationship between area deprivation and COVID-19 mortality in Japan contrasts with global patterns. Although Japan’s decentralized health system ensured equitable access to COVID-19 treatment, lower mortality in more deprived areas likely reflects additional protective factors, including population density patterns and community-specific adaptations. These findings underscore the complex interplay between socioeconomic conditions and health outcomes during global health emergencies.; Summary

Key Message
Japan exhibited an inverse COVID-19 mortality pattern: 9% lower risk per unit increase in area deprivation, contrasting with patterns elsewhere. This occurred where universal healthcare access and decentralized public health infrastructure operated in a geographic context of rural, lower-density deprived areas. The convergence of health system characteristics, population distribution, and social factors likely produced this divergence from typical pandemic inequities.

COVID-19: Cohort Profile

Cohort profile: Cardiovascular Metabolic Etiological Research Center COVID-19 Mental Health Survey (CC-MHS): Sun Jae Jung, Dongkyu Lee, Ji Su Yang, Sunghyuk Kang, Hyejin Kim, Jeong Hyun Ahn, Yunseong Heo, Jieun Noh, Changhyun Kim, Hyeon Chang Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2025;47:e2025033. Published online June 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2025033

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The Cardiovascular Metabolic Etiological Research Center COVID-19 Mental Health Survey (CC-MHS) is a comprehensive longitudinal cohort study investigating the mental health impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic by utilizing pre-existing baseline data from the Cardiovascular Metabolic Etiological Research Center cohort (2013-2018). This study assesses physical health, lifestyle changes, and mental health using validated tools, including the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, and the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5, and evaluates a population of urban and suburban Korean participants across multiple dimensions. Through online surveys, the research identified gender-specific social support mechanisms, showing that men benefit from larger social networks, whereas women derive protective effects from stronger emotional connections. Key findings underscore complex interactions among demographic factors, psychological variables, and public health responses, especially in the context of vaccination attitudes and trust in pandemic management. The CC-MHS delivers critical insights into mental health trajectories during global health crises, offering valuable evidence for developing adaptive public health strategies and for understanding the intricate relationships between individual psychological resilience and broader societal health challenges.; Summary

Korean summary
본 CC-MHS 코호트는 팬데믹 이전 4,060명 대상 CMERC 기초자료 활용하였다 본 CC-MHS 코호트는 우울, 불안, PTSD 등 정신건강 평가를 7차례 추적조사하였다. 본 코호트에서는 성별 보호요인과 사회적 지지·신뢰의 중요성 규명하였다.

Key Message
In CC-MHS, we utilized pre-pandemic baseline data from 4,060 adults in the CMERC cohort. We conducted 7 waves of mental health surveys assessing depression, anxiety, PTSD, and resilience. In this cohort, we identified gender-specific protective factors and emphasized the importance of social support and trust.

COVID-19: Original Article

Risk of new-onset seizures following immunization against COVID-19: a self-controlled case-series study: Hwa Yeon Ko, Dongwon Yoon, Ju Hwan Kim, Han Eol Jeong, Seung Bong Hong, Won-Chul Shin, Ju-Young Shin, on behalf of the CoVaSC Investigators; Epidemiol Health. 2025;47:e2025024. Published online May 2, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2025024

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Despite emerging reports of new-onset seizures (NOS) following coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination, safety evidence regarding the risk of NOS after vaccination remains limited. We aimed to investigate the potential association between NOS and COVID-19 vaccination.
METHODS
We conducted a self-controlled case series study utilizing a nationwide database linking the COVID-19 vaccination registry and the National Health Information Database (from February 2021 to October 2022). We identified adults (≥18 years) who received COVID-19 vaccination (BNT162b2, ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, mRNA-1273, NVX-CoV2373, or Ad26.COV2.S) and had a diagnosis of NOS accompanied by prescriptions of anti-seizure drugs. The observation period was defined as 240 days following vaccination. We evaluated the risk of NOS during a risk window of 28 days after vaccination compared to the control window (the remaining observation period excluding the risk window). Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using a conditional Poisson regression model.
RESULTS
Among 42,155,198 COVID-19 vaccine recipients, we identified 1,849 and 4,217 patients with NOS in the risk and control windows, respectively. There was no increased risk of NOS within the 28-day period following vaccination (IRR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.94 to 1.05). Although results from subgroup analyses by vaccine type were largely consistent with the main findings (IRR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.88 to 1.03 for BNT162b2; IRR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.77 to 1.16 for ChAdOx1 nCoV-19; IRR, 1.58; 95% CI, 0.52 to 4.83 for Ad26.COV2.S), a marginally elevated risk was observed for mRNA-1273 (IRR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.04 to 1.42).
CONCLUSIONS
There was no evidence of an increased risk of NOS following COVID-19 vaccination. These findings can be used as safety evidence in clinical decision-making and to bolster public confidence in COVID-19 vaccines.; Summary

Korean summary
· 질병관리청 코로나19백신 접종 등록자료와 국민건강보험공단의 청구 데이터베이스 연계 자료원을 활용하여 코로나19백신 접종과 경련/발작 발생 간의 관련성에 대한 안전성 평가를 수행함. · 자기-대조환자군 연구설계를 적용하여 4,215만 명 이상의 코로나19백신 접종자를 대상으로 분석한 결과, 대부분의 백신 종류에서 접종 후 28일 이내에 경련/발작 발생 위험이 증가하지 않았으며, mRNA-1273 백신에서만 위험이 다소 증가한 것으로 나타남. · 전반적으로, 본 연구는 코로나19백신 접종 후 경련/발작 발생 위험이 증가하지 않음을 보여주었으며, 이는 임상적 의사결정과 백신 안전성에 대한 신뢰를 높이는 근거로 활용될 수 있음.

Key Message
· A nationwide self-controlled case series study investigated whether COVID-19 vaccination increases the risk of new-onset seizures (NOS) in adults by analyzing over 42 million vaccine recipients. · The results showed no increased risk of NOS within 28 days after vaccination for most vaccine types, with the exception of a marginally elevated risk for the mRNA-1273 vaccine. · Overall, the study found no evidence of increased NOS risk following COVID-19 vaccination, supporting the safety of these vaccines for clinical decision-making.

COVID-19: Original Article

Inequality in mortality according to regional deprivation during the COVID-19 pandemic: Min Hui Moon, Young Gyu Ko, Min Hyeok Choi; Epidemiol Health. 2025;47:e2025022. Published online April 29, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2025022

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Vulnerability to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is significantly greater in regions with lower socioeconomic status (SES). However, detailed analyses of regional socioeconomic disparities have rarely been conducted in Korea. This study aimed to identify and compare mortality inequalities associated with regional SES across different areas of Korea during the COVID-19 pandemic.
METHODS
Using cause-of-death statistics from 2020 to 2022, we calculated age-standardized mortality rates (ASMRs) for total mortality, COVID-19 mortality, and pneumonia mortality. The SES of each region was assessed using the regional deprivation index. Additionally, we calculated the rate difference, rate ratio, slope index of inequality (SII), and relative index of inequality (RII) for each socioeconomic level to examine the extent of mortality inequality and its temporal changes. These analyses were stratified by gender and urban-rural classification.
RESULTS
The total mortality rate, as well as COVID-19-specific and pneumonia-specific mortality rates, increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. The ASMR for COVID-19 was higher in rural areas (ASMR, 27.79), which have lower healthcare accessibility, compared to urban areas (ASMR, 26.63). However, mortality inequality indicators for COVID-19 were more pronounced in urban areas compared to rural areas (SII: urban, 2.72; rural, -0.05, RII: urban, 0.10; rural, 0.00). Notably, significant inequalities were observed among men residing in urban areas.
CONCLUSIONS
In disaster situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential to implement strategies aimed at reducing overall mortality rates and addressing regional socioeconomic inequalities.; Summary

Korean summary
COVID-19 팬데믹 기간 동안, 지역의 사회경제적 수준은 한국의 사망률에 중요한 영향을 미쳤다. 총사망률, COVID-19 사망률, 폐렴 사망률에 대한 연령표준화사망률(ASMR)은 의료 접근성이 낮고 박탈 수준이 높은 농촌 지역에서 더 높게 나타났으나, 상대적인 사망 불평등은 특히 남성을 중심으로 도시 지역에서 더 두드러지게 나타났다. 이러한 결과는 공중보건 위기 상황에서 건강 불평등이 지역의 사회경제적 수준과 맥락에 따라 복합적으로 작용함을 보여준다. 정책 입안자들은 지역 간 사회경제적 수준에 따른 절대적 불평등과 상대적 불평등을 모두 고려한 맞춤형 개입 전략을 수립하고, 형평한 의료 접근성을 확보함으로써 향후 팬데믹에서의 사망 위험을 줄이기 위한 노력을 강화해야 한다.

Key Message
During the COVID-19 pandemic, regional socioeconomic disparities significantly influenced mortality in Korea. Mortality rates were higher in deprived rural areas, while relative inequalities were more evident in urban men. Tailored policies addressing both absolute and relative inequalities are essential to ensure equitable healthcare access in future crises.

COVID-19: Original Article

Analyzing the dynamics of complicated and uncomplicated appendicitis during the COVID-19 pandemic in Seoul, Korea: a multifaceted time series approach: Kiook Baek, Chulyong Park; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024081. Published online October 1, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024081

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study investigated the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and associated control strategies on the incidence of appendicitis in Seoul, using data from 2018 to 2020 from Korea’s National Health Insurance.

METHODS

We analyzed records of total, complicated, and uncomplicated appendicitis cases, as well as the ratio of complicated to uncomplicated appendicitis, using natural spline and piecewise regression models to identify trends and breakpoints. Bayesian structural time-series (BSTS) models were used to evaluate the causal impact of social distancing on appendicitis incidences.

RESULTS

The spline regression analysis indicated decreasing trends in both total and uncomplicated appendicitis cases. Conversely, the incidence of complicated appendicitis and the ratio of complicated to uncomplicated cases increased. Breakpoints for a decline in uncomplicated appendicitis and a rise in the ratio occurred at 31 weeks in 2020 (95% confidence interval [CI], 23.2 to 38.8) and at 33.9 weeks (95% CI, 28.3 to 39.6), respectively. The BSTS model demonstrated a 7.8% reduction in total appendicitis cases (95% credible interval [CrI], -12.1 to -3.3). It also showed a 17.4% decrease in uncomplicated cases (95% CrI, -22.2 to -12.3) and increases of 12.8% (95% CrI, 4.9 to 22.0) in complicated cases and 39.0% (95% CrI, 27.0 to 53.3) in the ratio of complicated to uncomplicated appendicitis.

CONCLUSIONS

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a decrease in both total and uncomplicated appendicitis cases, while the number of complicated cases increased. Reduced medical visits likely accounted for these changes. Strategies are needed to manage changes in disease pathophysiology resulting from altered healthcare utilization during health crises.

Summary

Korean summary
-여러 연구에서 COVID-19 유행기간에 급성 충수염의 역학에 대한 변화가 있었다는 보고가 있어 국내 건강보험 청구 자료를 사용하여 확인하고자 하였다. -시계열 데이터로 역학의 변동 시점에 대한 분석을 수행한 결과, 유의미한 합병증이 없는 충수염의 감소와, 합병증을 동반한 충수염의 비율 변동이 시작된 시점은 사회적 거리두기를 한 시점과 유사한 것으로 나타났다. -사회적 거리두기를 한 시점 전후의 급성 충수염 역학을 비교하였을 때, 총 급성 충수염 및 합병증이 없는 충수염은 감소하는 경향이, 합병증을 동반한 충수염은 증가하는 경향이 유의하게 보였다.

Key Message
Several studies have reported changes in the epidemiology of acute appendicitis during the COVID-19 pandemic; this study aimed to confirm these findings using national health insurance claims data. Time-series analysis of the epidemiological shift points showed that the decrease in uncomplicated appendicitis cases and the shift in the proportion of complicated appendicitis cases occurred around the time social distancing measures were implemented. When comparing the epidemiology of acute appendicitis before and after the onset of social distancing, there was a significant decrease in the incidence of total acute appendicitis and uncomplicated cases, with a significant increase in complicated appendicitis cases.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

TASA DE MORTALIDAD POR APENDICITIS AGUDA ENTRE LOS AÑOS 2017-2023 EN CHILE.
Ignacio Pinto Gajardo, Sofía Palma Barrera, Juan Sebastián Rubilar Devia, Joaquin Cristóbal Ponce Henríquez, Paulina Andrea Aguilar Rojas, Arantza Riquelme Rivera
Revista ANACEM.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Temporal trends in pediatric intestinal intussusception following the COVID‐19 outbreak in Seoul, Korea
Jung Hee Hong, Kiook Baek
Pediatrics International.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Time series analysis and seasonality trends of SARS-CoV-2 in Ecuador (2020–2024): a four-year study
Pablo Espinosa, Paulina Quirola-Amores, Saul Lema Asqui, Enrique Terán
Frontiers in Public Health.2025;[Epub] CrossRef

COVID-19: Original Article

COVID-19 infection and severe clinical outcomes in patients with kidney disease by vaccination status: a nationwide cohort study in Korea: Jieun Woo, Ahhyung Choi, Jaehun Jung, Ju-Young Shin; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024065. Published online July 17, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024065

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Patients with kidney disease have been prioritized for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination due to their susceptibility to COVID-19 infection. However, little evidence exists regarding these patients’ vulnerability to COVID-19 post-vaccination. Thus, we evaluated the risk of COVID-19 in patients with kidney disease compared to individuals without kidney disease according to vaccination status.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the Korean nationwide COVID-19 registry linked with National Health Insurance Service claims data (2018-2021). Among individuals aged 12 years or older, 2 separate cohorts were constructed: a COVID-19-vaccinated cohort and an unvaccinated cohort. Within each cohort, the risk of COVID-19 infection and all-cause mortality, hospitalization, and emergency room visits within 30 days of COVID-19 infection were compared between patients with and without kidney disease. To adjust for potential confounding, we used propensity score matching. Hazard ratios (HRs) for each outcome were estimated using a Cox proportional hazard model.

RESULTS

We identified 785,390 and 836,490 individuals in the vaccinated and unvaccinated cohorts, respectively. Compared to patients without kidney disease, patients with kidney disease were at a higher risk of COVID-19 infection in both the vaccinated cohort (HR, 1.08; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02 to 1.16) and the unvaccinated cohort (HR, 1.09; 95% CI, 0.99 to 1.20). Likewise, patients with kidney disease generally were at higher risk for severe clinical outcomes within 30 days of COVID-19 infection. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses showed generally consistent results.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study observed excess risk of COVID-19 in patients with kidney disease, highlighting the importance of ongoing attention to these patients even post-vaccination.

Summary

Korean summary
본 연구는 신장 질환이 없는 사람과 비교하여 신장 질환이 있는 환자의 COVID-19 위험을 백신 접종 여부에 따라 평가하였습니다. 백신 접종 여부와 상관없이 신장 질환이 있는 환자는 신장 질환이 없는 환자에 비해 코로나19 감염 및 코로나19 감염 이후 사망, 입원, 응급실 방문의 위험이 더 높았습니다. 즉, 이러한 연구 결과는 백신 접종 후에도 신장 질환이 있는 환자에 대한 코로나19에 대한 지속적인 주의가 필요함을 시사합니다.

Key Message
This study evaluated the risk of COVID-19 in patients with kidney disease compared to patients without kidney disease according to vaccination status. Compared to patients without kidney disease, patients with kidney disease were at a higher risk of COVID-19 infection and severe clinical outcomes after COVID-19 infection in both the vaccinated cohort and the unvaccinated cohort. These findings highlighted the importance of ongoing attention to these patients even post-vaccination.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Validation of Diagnostic Code Definitions for Identifying Patient in Korean Health Insurance Claims Data: A Scoping Review
Kyoung-Hoon Kim
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2025;[Epub] CrossRef

COVID-19: Original Article

Changes in food sufficiency among Korean adults in urban and rural areas during the COVID-19 pandemic: an analysis of the 7th and 8th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: Sarang Jeong, Jin-Young Jeong, Sohyun Park; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024045. Published online April 16, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024045

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Abstract Summary PDF: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Understanding changes in food sufficiency within various demographic groups during emergency situations, such as the global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, is crucial in formulating public health policies for future preparedness. This study investigated potential differences between urban and rural residents in food sufficiency trends during the COVID-19 pandemic and examined how these changes varied according to socio-demographic factors.
METHODS
This cross-sectional study analyzed data from 19,724 adults aged 20 years and older, utilizing information from the 7th-8th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2018-2021).
RESULTS
In urban areas, across all subpopulations, food sufficiency improved significantly during the COVID-19 period relative to pre-pandemic levels (p<0.001). However, in rural regions, a significant increase in food sufficiency during the COVID-19 era was observed only among female, with an odds ratio of 1.42 (95% confidence interval, 1.06 to 1.89). Nevertheless, no significant interaction terms were found between region and various socio-demographic factors regarding changes in food sufficiency during the COVID-19 period.
CONCLUSIONS
During the COVID-19 pandemic, food sufficiency among urban residents improved compared to the pre-pandemic era, whereas their rural counterparts saw no such improvement. Additionally, no significant interaction was detected between urban versus rural areas and changes in food sufficiency during the COVID-19 period. These findings indicate the need for targeted food policies to prepare for potential future pandemics, particularly in rural areas, where food sufficiency did not improve.; Summary

Korean summary
- 본 연구는 COVID-19 팬데믹 동안 도시와 농촌 지역의 성인들 사이에서 식품 충분성의 변화를 조사하고, 이 변화를 사회인구학적 요인에 따라 분석하였다.
- 연구 결과, 코로나19 기간 동안 도시 지역의 다양한 인구통계학적 하위 그룹에서 식품 충분성이 크게 증가했으며, 농촌 지역에서는 여성들을 제외하고는 유의미한 변화가 나타나지 않았다.
- 본 연구는 향후 팬데믹 대비를 위한 식품 충분성 정책을 개발할 때 인구통계학적 요인과 지역적 차이를 고려하는 것이 중요하며, 특히 농촌 지역에서의 필요성을 강조한다.

Key Message
- This study examined changes in food sufficiency among adults in urban and rural areas during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on socio-demographic factors.
- Findings revealed that food sufficiency significantly increased in urban areas across various demographic subgroups during the COVID-19 period, while rural areas showed no significant overall change, except for an increase among women.
- The study highlights the importance of considering socio-demographic factors and regional differences, particularly the need for targeted food assistance programs in rural areas, for future pandemic preparedness.

COVID-19: Original Article

Worsening of health disparities across COVID-19 pandemic stages in Korea: Hyejin Lee, Hyunwoo Nam, Jae-ryun Lee, Hyemin Jung, Jin Yong Lee; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024038. Published online March 13, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024038

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Abstract Summary PDF

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
With the end of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the health outcomes of this disease in Korea must be examined. We aimed to investigate health outcomes and disparities linked to socioeconomic status during the COVID-19 pandemic in Korea and to identify risk factors for hospitalization and mortality.

METHODS

This nationwide retrospective study incorporated an analysis of individuals with and without COVID-19 in Korea between January 1, 2020 and December 31, 2022. The study period was divided into 4 stages. Prevalence, hospitalization, mortality, and case-fatality rates were calculated per 100,000 population. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify risk factors for COVID-19 hospitalization and mortality.

RESULTS

Overall, the incidence rate was 40,601 per 100,000 population, the mortality rate was 105 per 100,000 population, and the case-fatality rate was 259 per 100,000 cases. A total of 12,577,367 new cases (24.5%) were recorded in stage 3 and 8,979,635 cases (17.5%) in stage 4. Medical Aid recipients displayed the lowest 3-year cumulative incidence rate (32,737 per 100,000) but the highest hospitalization (5,663 cases per 100,000), mortality (498 per 100,000), and case-fatality (1,521 per 100,000) rates. Male sex, older age, lower economic status, non-metropolitan area of residence, high Charlson comorbidity index, and disability were associated with higher risk of hospitalization and death. Vaccination was found to reduce mortality risk.

CONCLUSIONS

As the pandemic progressed, surges were observed in incidence, hospitalization, and mortality, exacerbating disparities associated with economic status and disability. Nevertheless, Korea has maintained a low case-fatality rate across all economic groups.

Summary

Korean summary
국민건강보험공단 자료를 이용하여 2020-2022년 후향적 코호트를 구축하여 시기별 코로나19 유병률, 입원률, 사망률, 치명률과 장애, 소득에 따른 건강격차를 확인하였을 때, 코로나19 대유행이 진행됨에 따라 발병률, 입원률, 사망률이 급증하고 건강 격차가 확대되었다. 그러나 이러한 격차에도 불구하고 한국은 다른 국가들과 비교하여 모든 소득수준에서 낮은 치명률을 유지하였다.

Key Message
Using data from the National Health Insurance Service, a retrospective cohort for the years 2020-2022 was established. By examining the COVID-19 prevalence rate, hospitalisation rate, mortality rate, and case-fatality rate, along with health disparities based on disability and economic status, as the pandemic progressed, there was a surge in incidence, hospitalisation, and mortality, widening disparities related to economic status and disability. Despite these disparities, Korea has maintained a low case-fatality rate across all economic groups.

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The intersection of health inequalities and COVID‐19: Evidence from National Health Insurance Big Data in South Korea
Jaehyun Nam, Sarah Jiyoon Kwon, Wonik Lee, Eunji Kim
American Journal of Community Psychology.2026;[Epub] CrossRef

COVID-19: Original Articles

Influence of practice location on prescribing, diabetes care, and colorectal cancer screening among Czech general practitioners during the COVID-19 pandemic: Jan Bělobrádek, Luděk Šídlo, Tom Philipp; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024033. Published online February 23, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024033

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The provision of primary health care was not interrupted during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Czechia, although the capacity and resources of providers changed. We examined how the pandemic affected individual general practices throughout 2017-2021, focusing on differences between urban and rural practices.

METHODS

We analysed data from the largest health insurance company in Czechia, which provides care to 4.5 million people (60% of the population). We evaluated the prescription volume, diabetes care procedures, and faecal immunochemical test (FIT) in preventive care and new pandemic-related procedures (remote consultations, testing, and vaccinations). For the spatial distribution of practices, we adapted the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development typology.

RESULTS

We observed minimal declines in 2020 in the rate of prescribing (-1.0%) and diabetes care (-5.1%), with a rapid resumption in 2021, but a substantial decline in FIT (-17.8% in 2020) with slow resumption. Remote consultations were used by 94% of all practices regardless of location, with testing and vaccinations more commonly performed by rural general practitioners (GPs).

CONCLUSIONS

Primary care in Czechia rose to the challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic, as shown by the finding that the volume of healthcare services provided through primary care did not decrease across most of the monitored parameters. This study also confirmed that rural GPs provide more care in-house, both in terms of prescribing and procedures performed in their practices. Future studies will need to focus on preventive care, which the pandemic has dampened in GP practices in Czechia.

Summary

Key Message
Primary care in Czechia has effectively adapted to the changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Minimal impact was observed in prescribtions and diabetic patient care. There was a significant decline in colorectal cancer screening, with a slow restitution after the pandemic subsided. Rural GPs consistently provided in-house treatment and have higher shares of both prescribing and diabetes care, as well as performing more COVID-19 specific procedures.

Citations

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Effect of Age, Practice Location and Covid-19 on the Use of POCT Methods by General Practitioners in Czechia in 2017–2021
Jan Bělobrádek, Luděk Šídlo, Tom Philipp
Acta Medica (Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic).2025; 68(3): 87. CrossRef

The bounds of meta-analytics and an alternative method: Ramalingam Shanmugam, Mohammad Tabatabai, Derek Wilus, Karan P. Singh; Epidemiol Health. 2024;46:e2024016. Published online January 7, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2024016

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Meta-analysis is a statistical appraisal of the data analytic implications of published articles (Y), estimating parameters including the odds ratio and relative risk. This information is helpful for evaluating the significance of the findings. The Higgins I2 index is often used to measure heterogeneity among studies. The objectives of this article are to amend the Higgins I2 index score in a novel and innovative way and to make it more useful in practice.

METHODS

Heterogeneity among study populations can be affected by many sources, including the sample size and study design. They influence the Cochran Q score and, thus, the Higgins I2 score. In this regard, the I2 score is not an absolute indicator of heterogeneity. Q changes by bound as Y increases unboundedly. An innovative methodology is devised to show the conditional and unconditional probability structures.

RESULTS

Various properties are derived, including showing that a zero correlation between Q and Y does not necessarily mean that they are independent. A new alternative statistic, S2, is derived and applied to mild cognitive impairment and coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination for meta-analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

A hidden shortcoming of the Higgins I2 index is overcome in this article by amending the Higgins I2 score. The usefulness of the proposed methodology is illustrated using 2 examples. The findings have potential health policy implications.

Summary

Key Message
An approach to overcome the hidden shortcomings of Higgens I2 in meta-analysis. The approach has potential health policy implications.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Practicing Meta-Analytics with Rectification
Ramalingam Shanmugam, Karan P. Singh
Publications.2025; 13(1): 2. CrossRef
A New Measure for an Acceptable Level of Homogeneity in Meta-Informatics
Ramalingam Shanmugam, Karan P. Singh
Mathematics.2025; 13(9): 1364. CrossRef

COVID-19: Original Article

Forecasting the effects of vaccination on the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia using SEIRV compartmental models: Mei Cheng Lim, Sarbhan Singh, Chee Herng Lai, Balvinder Singh Gill, Mohd Kamarulariffin Kamarudin, Ahmed Syahmi Syafiq Md Zamri, Cia Vei Tan, Asrul Anuar Zulkifli, Mohamad Nadzmi Md Nadzri, Nur'ain Mohd Ghazali, Sumarni Mohd Ghazali, Nuur Hafizah Md Iderus, Nur Ar Rabiah Binti Ahmad, Jeyanthi Suppiah, Kok Keng Tee, Tahir Aris, Lonny Chen Rong Qi Ahmad; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023093. Published online October 17, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023093

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
This study aimed to develop susceptible-exposed-infectious-recovered-vaccinated (SEIRV) models to examine the effects of vaccination on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) case trends in Malaysia during Phase 3 of the National COVID-19 Immunization Program amidst the Delta outbreak.
METHODS
SEIRV models were developed and validated using COVID-19 case and vaccination data from the Ministry of Health, Malaysia, from June 21, 2021 to July 21, 2021 to generate forecasts of COVID-19 cases from July 22, 2021 to December 31, 2021. Three scenarios were examined to measure the effects of vaccination on COVID-19 case trends. Scenarios 1 and 2 represented the trends taking into account the earliest and latest possible times of achieving full vaccination for 80% of the adult population by October 31, 2021 and December 31, 2021, respectively. Scenario 3 described a scenario without vaccination for comparison.
RESULTS
In scenario 1, forecasted cases peaked on August 28, 2021, which was close to the peak of observed cases on August 26, 2021. The observed peak was 20.27% higher than in scenario 1 and 10.37% lower than in scenario 2. The cumulative observed cases from July 22, 2021 to December 31, 2021 were 13.29% higher than in scenario 1 and 55.19% lower than in scenario 2. The daily COVID-19 case trends closely mirrored the forecast of COVID-19 cases in scenario 1 (best-case scenario).
CONCLUSIONS
Our study demonstrated that COVID-19 vaccination reduced COVID-19 case trends during the Delta outbreak. The compartmental models developed assisted in the management and control of the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia.; Summary

Key Message
The effectiveness of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination against the highly transmissible Delta variant remained uncertain during the initial phase of the Delta outbreak in Malaysia. The innovative use of compartmental models provided scientific evidence of the potential impact of COVID-19 vaccination in reducing COVID-19 case trends based on local epidemiological data and offered forecasts of COVID-19 case trends based on varying vaccination rates which assisted resource planning and enhanced healthcare system preparedness. This evidence played a crucial role in bolstering public confidence in vaccination efforts and assisted in the control and management of the pandemic.

COVID-19: Cohort Profile

Cohort profile: investigating SARS-CoV-2 infection and the health and psychosocial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Canadian CHILD Cohort: Rilwan Azeez, Larisa Lotoski, Aimée Dubeau, Natalie Rodriguez, Myrtha E. Reyna, Tyler Freitas, Stephanie Goguen, Maria Medeleanu, Geoffrey L. Winsor, Fiona S. L. Brinkman, Emily E. Cameron, Leslie Roos, Elinor Simons, Theo J. Moraes, Piush J. Mandhane, Stuart E. Turvey, Shelly Bolotin, Kim Wright, Deborah McNeil, David M. Patrick, Jared Bullard, Marc-André Langlois, Corey R. Arnold, Yannick Galipeau, Martin Pelchat, Natasha Doucas, Padmaja Subbarao, Meghan B. Azad; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023091. Published online October 13, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023091

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Abstract

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected all Canadian families, with some impacted differently than others. Our study aims to: (1) determine the prevalence and transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection among Canadian families, (2) identify predictors of infection susceptibility and severity of SARS-CoV-2, and (3) identify health and psychosocial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study builds upon the CHILD Cohort Study, an ongoing multi-ethnic general population prospective cohort consisting of 3,454 Canadian families with children born in Vancouver, Edmonton, Manitoba, and Toronto between 2009 and 2012. During the pandemic, CHILD households were invited to participate in the CHILD COVID-19 Add-On Study involving: (1) brief biweekly surveys about COVID-19 symptoms and testing; (2) quarterly questionnaires assessing COVID-19 exposure and testing, vaccination status, physical and mental health, and pandemic-driven life changes; and (3) in-home biological sampling kits to collect blood and stool. In total, 1,462 households (5,378 participants) consented to the CHILD COVID-19 Add-On Study: 2,803 children (mean±standard deviation [SD], 9.0±2.7 years; range, 0-17 years) and 2,576 adults (mean±SD, 43.0±6.5 years; range, 18-85 years). We will leverage the wealth of pre-pandemic CHILD data to identify risk and resilience factors for susceptibility and severity to the direct and indirect pandemic effects. Our short-term findings will inform key stakeholders and knowledge users to shape current and future pandemic responses. Additionally, this study provides a unique resource to study the long-term impacts of the pandemic as the CHILD Cohort Study continues.

Summary

Key Message
· This study of 1,462 Canadian families (5,378 individuals) leverages a decade of extensive pre-pandemic CHILD Cohort Study data to identify risk and resilience factors for susceptibility to the direct and indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. · Our short-term findings will inform key stakeholders and knowledge users to shape current and future pandemic responses. · This study provides a unique resource to study the long-term impacts of the pandemic as the CHILD Cohort Study continues.

Citations

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From fetus to 8: the CHILD Cohort Study
Kozeta Miliku, Myrtha E Reyna, Maria Medeleanu, Ruixue Dai, Aimee Dubeau, Diana L Lefebvre, Kim Wright, Bassel Dawod, Marshall Beck, Elissa Brooks, Michael Kobor, Qingling Duan, Jeffrey R Brook, Wendy Lou, Fiona S L Brinkman, Geoffrey L Winsor, Justin Coo
American Journal of Epidemiology.2025; 194(7): 1984. CrossRef

COVID-19: Original Article

Risk of lymphadenopathy from SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in Korea: a self-controlled case series analysis: Mi-Sook Kim, Bongyoung Kim, Jeong Pil Choi, Nam-Kyong Choi, Jung Yeon Heo, Jun Yong Choi, Joongyub Lee, Sang Il Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023090. Published online October 13, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023090

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
To assess the risk of lymphadenopathy following severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccination.
METHODS
A self-controlled case series design was used to determine whether the risk of lymphadenopathy was higher in the 1-day to 42-day risk interval after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination compared to the control period. In addition, subgroup analyses were conducted according to baseline characteristics, time since vaccination, and sensitivity analyses adjusted for the length of the risk interval.
RESULTS
The risk of developing lymphadenopathy in the risk interval (1-42 days) after COVID-19 vaccination compared to the control period was significantly increased, with a relative incidence (RI) of 1.17 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.17 to 1.18) when the first, second, and third doses were combined. The RI was greater on the day of vaccination (1.47; 95% CI, 1.44 to 1.50). In subgroup analyses by baseline characteristics, a significantly increased risk or trend toward increased risk was observed in most subgroups except for those aged 70 years and older, with a significant increase in risk in younger individuals, those with a Charlson’s comorbidity index <5, and those who received mRNA vaccines (mRNA-1273>BNT162b2). Within the 1-day to 42-day post-dose risk period, the relative risk was highest during the 1-day to 7-day post-dose period (1.59; 95% CI, 1.57 to 1.60) compared to the control period, and then the risk declined. In the sensitivity analysis, we found that the longer the risk window, the smaller the RI.
CONCLUSIONS
SARS-CoV-2 vaccination is associated with a statistically significant increase in the risk of lymphadenopathy, and this risk was observed only with mRNA vaccines.; Summary

Korean summary
질병관리청의 코로나19 예방접종자료와 국민건강보험공단 자료를 이용하여 수행한 본 자기대조환자군 연구에서 코로나19 백신접종은 42일 내 림프절병증 발생위험을 1.17배 (95% 신뢰구간, 1.17-1.18) 증가시키는 것으로 나타났다. 이러한 위험의 증가는 mRNA 백신에 국한하여 관찰되었으며 연령이 낮을수록, 여성일수록 상대위험도가 높은 것으로 나타났다.

Key Message
This self-controlled case series study, using the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency COVID-19 vaccination database and the National Health Insurance Service database, showed an increased risk of developing lymphadenopathy following vaccination (RR 1.17; 95% CI, 1.17 to 1.18). The elevated risk of lymphadenopathy is specifically associated with mRNA platform vaccines, not viral vector vaccines, and is more pronounced in younger individuals and females.

COVID-19: Original Article

Effective vaccination strategies to control COVID-19 in Korea: a modeling study: Youngsuk Ko, Kyong Ran Peck, Yae-Jean Kim, Dong-Hyun Kim, Eunok Jung; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023084. Published online September 7, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023084

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
In Korea, as immunity levels of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the population acquired through previous infections and vaccinations have decreased, booster vaccinations have emerged as a necessary measure to control new outbreaks. The objective of this study was to identify the most suitable vaccination strategy for controlling the surge in COVID-19 cases.

METHODS

A mathematical model was developed to concurrently evaluate the immunity levels induced by vaccines and infections. This model was then employed to investigate the potential for future resurgence and the possibility of control through the use of vaccines and antivirals.

RESULTS

As of May 11, 2023, if the current epidemic trend persists without further vaccination efforts, a peak in resurgence is anticipated to occur around mid-October of the same year. Under the most favorable circumstances, the peak number of severely hospitalized patients could be reduced by 43% (n=480) compared to the scenario without vaccine intervention (n=849). Depending on outbreak trends and vaccination strategies, the best timing for vaccination in terms of minimizing this peak varies from May 2023 to August 2023.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that if the epidemic persist, the best timing for administering vaccinations would need to be earlier than currently outlined in the Korean plan. It is imperative to continue monitoring outbreak trends, as this is key to determining the best vaccination timing in order to manage potential future surges.

Summary

Korean summary
본 연구는 자연감염 혹은 백신으로 획득된 면역의 저하를 고려한 수리모델을 사용하여 COVID-19에 대한 백신 접종 전략 분석 결과를 보인다. 시뮬레이션 결과는 추가 백신 접종이 없을 경우 재유행의 정점이 800명을 넘을 것임을 나타내며, 적절한 시기에 백신을 접종하면 최대 재원 위중증환자수를 약 40%까지 줄일 수 있음을 보인다. 본 연구는 확진자 추세의 지속적인 모니터링이 백신 접종의 적정 시기를 결정하고 미래 COVID-19의 재유행을 효과적으로 관리하는 데 필요하다는 점을 강조한다.

Key Message
Our study analyzes strategies for COVID-19 through vaccination, using a mathematical model considering waning immunity from past infections and vaccinations. Results indicate that a resurgence peak would reach more than 800 without further vaccination, and suggest vaccination in proper timing can reduce the peak size of administered severe patients by up to approximately 40%. The study emphasizes the importance of ongoing monitoring of outbreak trends to manage vaccination timing and future COVID-19 surges effectively.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Modeling vaccination prioritization strategies for post-pandemic COVID-19 in the Republic of Korea accounting for under-reporting and age-structure
Geunsoo Jang, Jihyeon Kim, Robin N. Thompson, Hyojung Lee
Journal of Infection and Public Health.2025; 18(4): 102688. CrossRef
Effects of individual variation and seasonal vaccination on disease risks
William S. Hart, Jina Amin, Hyeongki Park, Kosaku Kitagawa, Yong Dam Jeong, Alexander R. Kaye, Shingo Iwami, Robin N. Thompson
Nature Communications.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Global stability analysis of an extended SUC epidemic mathematical model
Mengxin Chen, Soobin Kwak, Seokjun Ham, Youngjin Hwang, Junseok Kim
Zeitschrift für Naturforschung A.2024; 79(11): 1033. CrossRef

COVID-19: Original Article

Body mass index and prevalence of metabolic syndrome among Korean adults before and after the COVID-19 outbreak: a retrospective longitudinal study: Joo-Eun Jeong, Hoon-Ki Park, Hwan-Sik Hwang, Kye-Yeung Park, Myoung-Hye Lee, Seon-Hi Shin, Nayeon Choi; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023081. Published online August 29, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023081

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Studies evaluating weight changes during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic have yielded inconsistent results, and most of those studies were based on self-reported anthropometric measures. We investigated changes in body mass index (BMI), professionally measured waist circumference (WC), and metabolic syndrome components from before to during the pandemic in a sample of the adult population in Korea.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 1,118 male and female (age≥18 years) who underwent health checkups at a university medical center between January 1, 2016 and March 31, 2022. Changes in BMI, lifestyles, and metabolic syndrome components during the pandemic were analyzed using the paired t-test, McNemar test, generalized estimating equations, and repeated-measures analysis of variance.

RESULTS

Changes in body weight, BMI, and body fat percentage during the pandemic were not clinically significant. However, statistically significant results were found for decreased physical activity (p<0.001) and WC (p<0.001), and exacerbation of all metabolic syndrome components (except serum triglyceride levels). Moreover, the metabolic syndrome prevalence increased significantly from 20.2% to 31.2% during the pandemic (p<0.001). The prevalence of abdominal obesity and high fasting blood glucose levels also significantly increased from 2019 to 2021.

CONCLUSIONS

Metabolic syndrome, its components, and fat distribution worsened significantly after the implementation of social distancing and lockdowns, despite no clinically significant changes in body weight and BMI. Further studies on the post- pandemic period should investigate the long-term impact of social lockdowns on BMI and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome.

Summary

Korean summary
본 연구에서는 한국인 성인들의 코로나 팬대믹으로 인한 사회적 거리 두기, 봉쇄 정책 전 후의 체질량지수, 생활습관, 그리고 대사증후군과 그 구성 요소들의 변화를 건강검진을 통해 측정한 객관적인 지표의 변화를 통해 알아보고자 하였다. 연구 결과, 사회적 거리 두기 및 봉쇄 전후의 체질량지수와 체중은 유의미한 변화가 없었으나, 신체 활동량은 유의미하게 감소하였고, 체지방률, 허리둘레가 늘어났다. 그리고 중성지방을 제외하고 다른 대사증후군의 구성 요소인 혈압, 고밀도지단백 콜레스테롤, 공복혈당 지표는 악화되었다. 하위 그룹 분석에서 매년 검진을 시행 받은 대상자들 및 고혈압, 당뇨병, 이상지질혈증 약을 복용하지 않는 대상자들의 코로나-19 전후 연도별 대사 지표의 변화를 분석한 결과, 복부비만 유병률과 공복 혈당의 증가 양상이 뚜렷하였다.

Key Message
Although there was no significant change in BMI and weight, the prevalence of metabolic syndrome, abdominal obesity, and fasting blood glucose level prominently worsened after the implementation of social distancing and lockdowns. Such findings may indicate deterioration of insulin resistance during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study provides valuable information for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the general public towards mitigating the negative consequences of the pandemic on metabolic health, regardless of weight gain.

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Trends in the Incidence of Retinal Artery and Vein Occlusion Before and After COVID-19: A National Study in South Korea (2017-2022)
JIN CHO, NANG KYEONG LEE, JIN YEONG KIM, CHRISTOPHER SEUNGKYU LEE, SUK HO BYEON, SUNG SOO KIM, SEUNG WON LEE, YONG JOON KIM
American Journal of Ophthalmology.2025; 274: 101. CrossRef
Changes in body composition (muscle mass and adipose tissue) among adolescents aged 11–15 from Kraków during the COVID-19 pandemic
Paulina Artymiak, Magdalena Żegleń, Łukasz Kryst
Anthropological Review.2025; 87(4): 55. CrossRef
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Eida Nurhadzira Muhammad, Zhuo Lin Chong, Mohd Amierul Fikri Mahmud, Filza Noor Asari, Rozainanee Mohd Zain, Masita Arip
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Epidemiology and Health.2024; 46: e2024045. CrossRef
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COVID-19: Original Article

Clinical symptom profile of hospitalized COVID-19 Brazilian patients according to SARS-CoV-2 variants: Natália Satchiko Hojo-Souza, Vander Luis de Souza Freitas, Daniel Ludovico Guidoni, Fernanda Sumika Hojo de Souza; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023079. Published online August 28, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023079

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Abstract Summary PDF

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of the main symptoms in Brazilian coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients hospitalized during 4 distinct waves, based on their infection with different severe acute respiratory disease coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants.

METHODS

This study included hospitalized patients who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 during 15 weeks around the peak of each of 4 waves: W1, ancestral strain/B.1 lineage (May 31 to September 12, 2020); W2, Gamma/P.1 variant (January 31 to May 15, 2021); W3, Omicron variant (December 5, 2021 to March 19, 2022); and W4, BA.4/BA.5 subvariants (May 22 to September 3, 2022). Symptom data were extracted from the Brazilian Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Database. Relative risks were calculated, and an analysis of symptom networks was performed.

RESULTS

Patients who were hospitalized during the prevalence of the Gamma/P.1 variant demonstrated a higher risk, primarily for symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal pain, low oxygen saturation, and sore throat, than patients hospitalized during the first wave. Conversely, patients who were hospitalized during the predominance of the Omicron variant exhibited a lower relative risk, particularly for symptoms such as loss of smell, loss of taste, diarrhea, fever, respiratory distress, and dyspnea. Similar results were observed in COVID-19 patients who were hospitalized during the wave of the Omicron subvariants BA.4/BA.5. A symptom network analysis, conducted to explore co-occurrence patterns among different variants, revealed significant differential profiles across the 4 waves, with the most notable difference observed between the W2 and W4 networks.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the relative risks and patterns of symptom co-occurrence associated with different SARS-CoV-2 variants may reflect disease severity.

Summary

Key Message
The study highlights the varying prevalence and distinct symptom profiles among Brazilian COVID-19 patients hospitalized during different waves linked to specific SARS-CoV-2 variants. It suggests that the manifestation of symptoms differs significantly across variant-driven waves, signifying potential shifts in disease severity. Specifically, patients during the Gamma/P.1 variant wave showed higher risks for symptoms like fatigue, abdominal pain, and respiratory impairment, while those during the Omicron wave exhibited lower risks for certain symptoms like loss of smell and taste, indicating changing symptomatology and potentially evolving disease impact linked to different variants.

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Journal of Biomedical Informatics.2025; 162: 104778. CrossRef
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COVID-19: Original Article

Korea Seroprevalence Study of Monitoring of SARS-COV-2 Antibody Retention and Transmission (K-SEROSMART): findings from national representative sample: Jina Han, Hye Jin Baek, Eunbi Noh, Kyuhyun Yoon, Jung Ae Kim, Sukhyun Ryu, Kay O Lee, No Yai Park, Eunok Jung, Sangil Kim, Hyukmin Lee, Yoo-Sung Hwang, Jaehun Jung, Hun Jae Lee, Sung-il Cho, Sangcheol Oh, Migyeong Kim, Chang-Mo Oh, Byengchul Yu, Young-Seoub Hong, Keonyeop Kim, Sun Jae Jung, Mi Ah Han, Moo-Sik Lee, Jung-Jeung Lee, Young Hwangbo, Hyeon Woo Yim, Yu-Mi Kim, Joongyub Lee, Weon-Young Lee, Jae-Hyun Park, Sungsoo Oh, Heui Sug Jo, Hyeongsu Kim, Gilwon Kang, Hae-Sung Nam, Ju-Hyung Lee, Gyung-Jae Oh, Min-Ho Shin, Soyeon Ryu, Tae-Yoon Hwang, Soon-Woo Park, Sang Kyu Kim, Roma Seol, Ki-Soo Park, Su Young Kim, Jun-wook Kwon, Sung Soon Kim, Byoungguk Kim, June-Woo Lee, Eun Young Jang, Ah-Ra Kim, Jeonghyun Nam, The Korea Community Health Survey Group, Soon Young Lee, Dong-Hyun Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023075. Published online August 17, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023075

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
We estimated the population prevalence of antibodies to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), including unreported infections, through a Korea Seroprevalence Study of Monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Retention and Transmission (K-SEROSMART) in 258 communities throughout Korea.

METHODS

In August 2022, a survey was conducted among 10,000 household members aged 5 years and older, in households selected through two stage probability random sampling. During face-to-face household interviews, participants self-reported their health status, COVID-19 diagnosis and vaccination history, and general characteristics. Subsequently, participants visited a community health center or medical clinic for blood sampling. Blood samples were analyzed for the presence of antibodies to spike proteins (anti-S) and antibodies to nucleocapsid proteins (anti-N) SARS-CoV-2 proteins using an electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. To estimate the population prevalence, the PROC SURVEYMEANS statistical procedure was employed, with weighting to reflect demographic data from July 2022.

RESULTS

In total, 9,945 individuals from 5,041 households were surveyed across 258 communities, representing all basic local governments in Korea. The overall population-adjusted prevalence rates of anti-S and anti-N were 97.6% and 57.1%, respectively. Since the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency has reported a cumulative incidence of confirmed cases of 37.8% through July 31, 2022, the proportion of unreported infections among all COVID-19 infection was suggested to be 33.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

The K-SEROSMART represents the first nationwide, community-based seroepidemiologic survey of COVID-19, confirming that most individuals possess antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 and that a significant number of unreported cases existed. Furthermore, this study lays the foundation for a surveillance system to continuously monitor transmission at the community level and the response to COVID-19.

Summary

Korean summary
인구집단을 기반으로 하여 대표성 있는 표본을 추출하여 COVID-19 항체유병률 조사를 전국적으로 수행함으로 지역사회 단위에서 지속적으로 모니터링할 수 있는 COVID-19 감시체계 구축의 기반을 마련하였다. 2022년 8월 우리나라 국민의 대부분이 COVID-19에 대한 항체를 보유하고 있었고 인구 3명 중 1명은 미확진 감염자로 추정되었다.

Key Message
The K-SEROSMART represents the first nationwide, community-based seroepidemiologic survey of COVID-19. In August 2022, most of the Korean people had antibodies to COVID-19, and one in three people was estimated to have an unreported infection. This study lays the foundation for a surveillance system to continuously monitor transmission at the community level and the response to COVID-19.

Citations

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Effectiveness of the 2023-2024 monovalent XBB.1.5 vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 infection in people aged over 65 years in South Korea: a population-based cohort study
Suyoung Jo, Seunghyun Lee, Huiseon Kim, Hyunji Won, Gi-eun Rhie, Hye-Sook Jeong, June-Woo Lee, Ah-Ra Kim, Byung Chul Chun, Kyong Ran Peck, Dong-Hyun Kim
International Journal of Infectious Diseases.2026; 163: 108238. CrossRef
Modeling vaccination prioritization strategies for post-pandemic COVID-19 in the Republic of Korea accounting for under-reporting and age-structure
Geunsoo Jang, Jihyeon Kim, Robin N. Thompson, Hyojung Lee
Journal of Infection and Public Health.2025; 18(4): 102688. CrossRef
Limitations of neutralizing antibody titers in COVID-19 vaccine efficacy trials and a call for additional correlates of protection
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Effect of anti-S antibody titers on newly confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Korea: a community-based cohort study (K-SEROSMART Wave 2)
Jina Han, Jung Ae Kim, Hye Jin Baek, Eunbi Noh, Kay O. Lee, June-Woo Lee, Ah-Ra Kim, HyeonNam Do, Soon Young Lee, Dong-Hyun Kim
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Sho Miyamoto, Tadaki Suzuki
Vaccine.2024; 42(6): 1401. CrossRef
Changes in the intrinsic severity of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 according to the emerging variant: a nationwide study from February 2020 to June 2022, including comparison with vaccinated populations
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Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in pediatric patients in a tertiary care hospital setting
Ploy Pattanakitsakul, Chanya Pongpatipat, Chavachol Setthaudom, Mongkol Kunakorn, Thiantip Sahakijpicharn, Anannit Visudtibhan, Nopporn Apiwattanakul, Surapat Assawawiroonhakarn, Uthen Pandee, Chonnamet Techasaensiri, Sophida Boonsathorn, Sujittra Chaisav
PLOS ONE.2024; 19(9): e0310860. CrossRef
Realistic Estimation of COVID-19 Infection by Seroprevalence Surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies: An Experience From Korea Metropolitan Area From January to May 2022
In Hwa Jeong, Jong-Hun Kim, Min-Jung Kwon, Jayoung Kim, Hee Jin Huh, Byoungguk Kim, Junewoo Lee, Jeong-hyun Nam, Eun-Suk Kang
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Infection & Chemotherapy.2024; 56(4): 453. CrossRef

COVID-19: Original Article

Did the socioeconomic inequalities in avoidable and unavoidable mortality worsen during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in Korea?: Rora Oh, Myoung-Hee Kim, Juyeon Lee, Rangkyoung Ha, Jungwook Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023072. Published online August 3, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023072

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study examined changes in socioeconomic inequalities in mortality in Korea before and after the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

METHODS

From 2017 to 2020, age-standardized mortality rates were calculated for all-cause deaths, avoidable deaths (preventable deaths, treatable deaths), and unavoidable deaths using National Health Insurance claims data and Statistics Korea’s cause of death data. In addition, the slope index of inequality (SII) and the relative index of inequality (RII) by six income levels (Medical Aid beneficiary group and quintile of health insurance premiums) were computed to analyze the magnitude and change of mortality inequalities.

RESULTS

All-cause and avoidable mortality rates decreased steadily between 2017 and 2020, whereas unavoidable mortality remained relatively stable. In the case of mortality inequalities, the disparity in all-cause mortality between income classes was exacerbated in 2020 compared to 2019, with the SII increasing from 185.44 to 189.22 and the RII increasing from 3.99 to 4.29. In particular, the preventable and unavoidable mortality rates showed an apparent increase in inequality, as both the SII (preventable: 91.31 to 92.01, unavoidable: 69.99 to 75.38) and RII (preventable: 3.42 to 3.66, unavoidable: 5.02 to 5.89) increased.

CONCLUSIONS

In the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, mortality inequality continued to increase, although there was no sign of exacerbation. It is necessary to continuously evaluate mortality inequalities, particularly for preventable and unavoidable deaths.

Summary

Korean summary
이 연구는 COVID-19 발생 전후 한국에서의 사망률 추이와 사망률 불평등 변화를 조사했다. 2017~2020년 사이에 총사망률과 회피가능사망률은 줄어들었지만, 사망률의 사회경제적 불평등은 더 커지는 경향을 보였다. 특히 예방가능사망과 회피불가능사망에서 불평등이 커져 지속적인 추적과 평가가 필요하다.

Key Message
This study examined the trends in mortality rates and changes in mortality inequality in Korea before and after the onset of COVID-19. Between 2017 and 2020, while the all-cause and avoidable mortality rates decreased, there was a growing trend of inequality in mortality rates based on income levels. Particularly, inequalities in preventable and unavoidable deaths have increased, emphasizing the need for ongoing evaluation.

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Avoidable Mortality in its Economic Impact in Almaty City, Kazakhstan
Rauan Kastey, Ermek Dyussembekov, Kuanysh Nikatov, Yevgeniy Zhukov, Arimantas Tamasauskas, Oryngul Jumagaziyeva, Madiyar Umirbayev, Kamila Faizullina
Asian Journal of Social Health and Behavior.2025; 8(3): 141. CrossRef
Incidence and Influencing Factors of Avoidable Mortality in Korea From 2013-2022: Analysis of Cause-of-death Statistics
Jeong Min Yang, Jieun Hwang
Journal of Preventive Medicine and Public Health.2024; 57(6): 540. CrossRef

COVID-19: Original Article

Unequal burdens of COVID-19 infection: a nationwide cohort study of COVID-19-related health inequalities in Korea: Jeangeun Jeon, Jieun Park, Min-Hyeok Choi, Hongjo Choi, Myoung-Hee Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023068. Published online July 31, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023068

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
While the Korean government’s response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is considered effective given the relatively low mortality rate, issues of inequality have been insufficiently addressed. This study explored COVID-19-related health inequalities in Korea.

METHODS

Age standardization for various health inequality indices was derived using data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, and the Microdata Integrated Service of Statistics Korea. The slope index of inequality (SII) and relative index of inequality (RII) were calculated for socioeconomic variables, while absolute difference (AD) and relative difference (RD) were used for gender and disability inequalities.

RESULTS

We observed a number of COVID-19-related health outcome inequalities. Gender inequality was particularly noticeable in infection rates, with the rate of women 1.16 times higher than that of men. In contrast, socioeconomic inequality was evident in vaccination rates, with a 4.5-fold (SII, -4.519; 95% confidence interval, -7.403 to -1.634) difference between the highest and lowest household income groups. Regarding clinical progression post-infection, consistent findings indicated higher risk for men (RD for hospitalization, 0.90; severe cases, 0.54; and fatality, 0.65), individuals with disabilities (RD for hospitalization, 2.27; severe cases, 2.29; and fatality, 2.37), and those from lower socioeconomic groups (SII for hospitalization, 1.778; severe cases, 0.089; and fatality, 0.451).

CONCLUSIONS

While the infection risk was nearly ubiquitous, not everyone faced the same level of risk post-infection. To prevent further health inequalities, it is crucial to develop a thoughtful policy acknowledging individual health conditions and resources.

Summary

Korean summary
2020년 10월-2022년 4월까지의 국내 코로나-19 확진자 데이터와 건강보험 빅데이터, 사망등록통계를 연계하여 건강결과의 불평등 지표를 산출한 결과, 감염율, 백신접종율, 입원율, 중증화율, 치명률에서 소득수준(건강보험료 소득분위 기준), 성별, 장애유무에 따른 건강결과의 불평등이 확인되었다. 감염율은 여성이 남성보다 높았고, 백신접종율은 장애인과 의료급여 수급권자의 비율이 낮게 나타났고, 코로나-19로 인한 입원율과 중증화율, 치명율에서는 남성, 의료급여 수급권자, 장애인의 취약성이 두드러졌다. 본 연구의 분석결과는 국내 방역정책이 기존의 사회불평등을 충분하게 고려하지 못했을 가능성이 크며, 미래 감염병 관리 시 이를 고려하여 불평등을 완화시킬 수 있는 방향의 정책적 전략이 필요하다는 점을 시사한다.

Key Message
This study sought to investigate COVID-19-related health inequalities in Korea by linking COVID-19 registry data to the KNHIS big data and the cause of death data for the period October 2020 - April 2022. COVID-19-related health outcome inequalities were observed in infection, vaccination, hospitalization, clinical progress, and fatality by household income, gender, and disability. The infection rate was higher in women, the vaccination proportion was lower in the disabled and medical-aid beneficiaries, and men, the disabled and medical-aid beneficiaries were vulnerable in clinical progression post-infection which implies that a policy necessarily should consider existing socioeconomic inequalities for future pandemics.

Citations

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Excess mortality among the elderly in long-term care hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic: a system failure to protect the most vulnerable population in South Korea
Jeehyun Kim, Ji Eun Park, Myounghee Kim
Critical Public Health.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
The intersection of health inequalities and COVID‐19: Evidence from National Health Insurance Big Data in South Korea
Jaehyun Nam, Sarah Jiyoon Kwon, Wonik Lee, Eunji Kim
American Journal of Community Psychology.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
Genome diversity of SARS-CoV-2 lineages associated with vaccination breakthrough infections in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Abebe M. Aga, Demise Mulugeta, Atsbeha Gebreegziabxier, Girum Taye Zeleke, Aderajew Mekonnen Girmay, Gutema Bulti Tura, Abaysew Ayele, Ahmed Mohammed, Tigist Belete, Tefera Taddele, Rajiha Abubeker, Fanos Tadesse Woldemariyam, Tesfaye Gelanew, Yeweynshet
BMC Infectious Diseases.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Inequality in mortality according to regional deprivation during the COVID-19 pandemic
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Sileshi Sintayehu Sharbayta, Jaehun Jung, Youngji Jo
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Public Health.2024; 232: 52. CrossRef
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Daseul Moon, Jeangeun Jeon, Jieun Park, Min-Hyeok Choi, Myoung-Hee Kim, Hongjo Choi
Health Research Policy and Systems.2024;[Epub] CrossRef

COVID-19: Original Article

Direct indicators of social distancing effectiveness in COVID-19 outbreak stages: a correlational analysis of case contacts and population mobility in Korea: Sojin Choi, Chanhee Kim, Kun-Hee Park, Jong-Hun Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023065. Published online July 10, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023065

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The effectiveness of social distancing during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been evaluated using the magnitude of changes in population mobility. This study aimed to investigate a direct indicator—namely, the number of close contacts per patient with confirmed COVID-19.

METHODS

From week 7, 2020 to week 43, 2021, population movement changes were calculated from the data of two Korean telecommunication companies and Google in accordance with social distancing stringency levels. Data on confirmed cases and their close contacts among residents of Gyeonggi Province, Korea were combined at each stage. Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to compare the movement data with the change in the number of contacts for each confirmed case calculated by stratification according to age group. The reference value of the population movement data was set using the value before mid-February 2020, considering each data’s characteristics.

RESULTS

In the age group of 18 or younger, the number of close contacts per confirmed case decreased or increased when the stringency level was strengthened or relaxed, respectively. In adults, the correlation was relatively low, with no correlation between the change in the number of close contacts per confirmed case and the change in population movement after the commencement of vaccination for adults.

CONCLUSIONS

The effectiveness of governmental social distancing policies against COVID-19 can be evaluated using the number of close contacts per confirmed case as a direct indicator, especially for each age group. Such an analysis can facilitate policy changes for specific groups.

Summary

Korean summary
1. 사회적 거리두기의 효과를 간접적인 자료인 이동통신사와 구글데이터를 이용하여 인구 이동성 변화의 크기를 평가하였고, 직접적인 자료인 역학조사서의 확진자 1인당 밀접 접촉자 수를 산출하여 비교 평가하였다. 2. 18세 이하 연령대는 사회적 거리두기의 강화 또는 완화 단계에 따라 확진자 1인당 밀접 접촉자 수가 민감하게 변동되었으나, 성인의 경우에는 덜 민감하게 변동되었다. 3. 역학조사서에 기반하여 시계열 자료로 재가공한 확진자 1인당 밀접 접촉자 수는 사회적 거리두기 정책의 효과를 평가하는 직접적인 평가 지표로 사용될 수 있기에 충분히 검토되어야 한다.

Key Message
1. The study assessed social distancing's effectiveness by analyzing population mobility changes through mobile operator and Google data. And it was also compared with the number of close contacts per confirmed COVID-19 case based on the epidemiological survey report. 2. Younger age groups were more influenced by the social distancing policy in close contacts per confirmed COVID-19 case than adults. 3. The study suggests using close contacts per confirmed COVID-19 case from the epidemiological survey report as a direct measure of social distancing policy effectiveness.

Citations

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Strategic resource management in pandemics: integrating capacity planning with non-pharmaceutical interventions for COVID-19
Ozlem Cosgun, Eyyub Kibis, Ali Dag, Burak Cankaya
Computers & Industrial Engineering.2026; 214: 111874. CrossRef

COVID-19: Original Article

Barriers to COVID-19 vaccine surveillance: the issue of under-reporting adverse events: Yunha Noh, Hwa Yeon Ko, Ju Hwan Kim, Dongwon Yoon, Young June Choe, Seung-Ah Choe, Jaehun Jung, Ju-Young Shin; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023054. Published online June 7, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023054

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study investigated the reporting rates of adverse events following immunization (AEFIs) to the spontaneous reporting system (SRS) and its predictors among individuals with AEFIs after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination.

METHODS

A cross-sectional, web-based survey was conducted from December 2, 2021 to December 20, 2021, recruiting participants >14 days after completion of a primary COVID-19 vaccination series. Reporting rates were calculated by dividing the number of participants who reported AEFIs to the SRS by the total number of participants who experienced AEFIs. We estimated adjusted odds ratios (aORs) using multivariate logistic regression to determine factors associated with spontaneous AEFIs reporting.

RESULTS

Among 2,993 participants, 90.9% and 88.7% experienced AEFIs after the first and second vaccine doses, respectively (reporting rates, 11.6 and 12.7%). Furthermore, 3.3% and 4.2% suffered moderate to severe AEFIs, respectively (reporting rates, 50.5 and 50.0%). Spontaneous reporting was more prevalent in female (aOR, 1.54; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.31 to 1.81); those with moderate to severe AEFIs (aOR, 5.47; 95% CI, 4.45 to 6.73), comorbidities (aOR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.09 to 1.57), a history of severe allergic reactions (aOR, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.47 to 2.77); and those who had received mRNA-1273 (aOR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.05 to 1.49) or ChAdOx1 (aOR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.15 to 2.30) vaccines versus BNT162b2. Reporting was less likely in older individuals (aOR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.98 to 0.99 per 1-year age increment).

CONCLUSIONS

Spontaneous reporting of AEFIs after COVID-19 vaccination was associated with younger age, female sex, moderate to severe AEFIs, comorbidities, history of allergic reactions, and vaccine type. AEFIs under-reporting should be considered when delivering information to the community and in public health decision-making.

Summary

Korean summary
본 연구는 국내 19-49세 성인을 대상으로, 코로나19 예방 백신 접종 후 이상반응 경험에 대한 자발적 보고율을 조사하고, 자발적 보고와 관련된 요인을 파악하고자 하였다. 2021년 12월 2일부터 20일까지 온라인 설문조사를 통하여 자료를 수집하였으며, 연구대상자는 코로나19 예방 백신의 기초접종을 완료한 후 2주 경과한 19-49세 성인으로, 전국 대표성을 확보하기 위해 성별, 연령, 지역별로 층화하여 모집하였다. 이상반응 자발적 보고율은 1차 접종과 2차 접종 후 각각 약 11.6%, 12.7%로 나타났으며, 중등도에서 중증의 이상반응에 대한 자발적 보고율은 약 50.5%, 50.0%로 나타났다. 이상반응 자발적 보고율 관련 영향요인으로는 젊은 연령층, 여성, 이상반응의 중증도, 동반질환, 알러지 반응 이력, 기초접종 백신 종류가 포함되었다.

Key Message
Spontaneous reporting rates of adverse events following immunization (AEFIs) against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were low, at around 12 % of any AEFIs and 50 % of moderate-to-severe AEFIs. Younger age, female sex, severe AEFIs, comorbidities, history of allergic reactions, and the type of COVID-19 vaccine were associated with the AEFIs reporting.

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Alexander Domnich, Andrea Orsi, Piero Luigi Lai, Elvira Massaro, Carlo-Simone Trombetta, Julieta Pastorino, Charlott Roihl, Sara Tardito, Marianna Pianta, Giancarlo Icardi, Donatella Panatto
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COVID-19: Brief Communication

Prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection among urban cleaning and solid waste management workers during transmission of the Omicron variant in Brazil: Paulo Ricardo Martins-Filho, Joyce Thayane da Conceição dos Santos, Márcia Santos Rezende, Fernanda Oliveira de Carvalho, Érica Santos dos Reis, Waneska de Souza Barboza, Taise Ferreira Cavalcante, Cliomar Alves dos Santos, Lucindo José Quintans-Júnior, Renata Grespan, Cristiane Bani Corrêa, Tatiana Rodrigues de Moura, Dulce Marta Schimieguel, Jullyana de Souza Siqueira Quintans, Adriano Antunes de Souza Araújo; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023025. Published online February 16, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023025

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Abstract

This study estimated the prevalence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in urban cleaning and solid waste management workers during the transmission of the Omicron variant in one of the poorest regions of Brazil (the state of Sergipe). Nasopharyngeal swabs were collected from 494 workers, and the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA was tested by quantitative reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, comorbidities, vaccination status, mask use, and use of public transport to commute to the workplace were collected. The prevalence with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated from the proportion of SARS-CoV-2 positive cases among the total number of individuals tested. The prevalence ratio (PR) with a 95% CI was the measure of association used to evaluate the relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and the exposure variables. The prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection was 22.5% (95% CI, 19.0 to 26.4). Individuals under the age of 40 had a higher prevalence of infection (PR, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.03 to 2.30) as well as those who did not believe in the protective effect of vaccines (PR, 1.78; 95% CI, 1.05 to 2.89). Our results indicate the need for better guidance on preventive measures against coronavirus disease 2019 among urban cleaning and solid waste management workers.

Summary

Key Message
Urban cleaning and waste management workers in Brazil faced a significant risk of SARSCoV-2 infection during the Omicron variant transmission, with higher rates observed among younger individuals and those skeptical about vaccine protection.

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COVID-19: Original Article

Changes in mental health service utilization before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a nationwide database analysis in Korea: Kyoung Hoon Kim, Sang Min Lee, Minha Hong, Kyu-Man Han, Jong-Woo Paik; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023022. Published online February 14, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023022

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Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The present study examined the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on mental health service utilization through a comparative analysis of nationwide data regarding inpatient care users, outpatient visits, emergency department (ED) visits, and admissions via the ED before and during the pandemic.

METHODS

Data from approximately 350,000 Koreans diagnosed with mental illness were analyzed in terms of hospitalization, outpatient visits, and ED visits between January 2018 and June 2021. An interrupted time series analysis was conducted to determine the significance of changes in mental health service utilization indicators.

RESULTS

The number of hospital admissions per patient decreased by 1.2% at the start of the pandemic and 0.7% afterward. The length of hospital stay increased by 1.8% at the outbreak of the pandemic, and then decreased by 20.2%. Although the number of outpatients increased, the number of outpatient visits per patient decreased; the number of outpatient visits for schizophrenia (3.4%) and bipolar disorder (3.5%) significantly decreased immediately post-outbreak. The number of ED visits per patient decreased both immediately post-outbreak and afterward, and ED visits for schizophrenia (19.2%), bipolar disorder (22.3%), and depression (17.4%) decreased significantly immediately post-outbreak. Admissions via the ED did not show a significant change immediately post-outbreak.

CONCLUSIONS

Mental health service utilization increased during the pandemic, but medical service use decreased overall, with a particularly significant decrease in ED utilization. As the pandemic worsened, the decline in outpatient visits became more pronounced among those with severe mental illness.

Summary

Korean summary
이 연구는 COVID-19 전후 정신질환 의료서비스 이용 변화를 분석하였다. 팬데믹 기간 중에 정신질환 의료서비스는 전반적으로 감소하였고, 특히 중증 정신질환의 외래 방문이 감소하였다. 따라서, 정신질환자의 진료 연속성을 보장하기 위한 조치가 요구된다.

Key Message
This study examined the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health service utilization. The mental health service utilization decreased overall after the outbreak of COVID-19, especially outpatient visits for severe mental illness significantly decreased. Therefore, countermeasures are needed to maintain the continuity of care.

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European Psychiatry.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
A population-based cohort to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on socioeconomic inequalities in mental health care in Italy (CoMeH): study protocol
Alessio Petrelli, Massimiliano Aragona, Roberta Ciampichini, Anteo Di Napoli, Valeria Fano, Sara Leone, Martina Pacifici, Claudio Rosini, Caterina Silvestri, Alberto Zucchi, Martina Ventura
Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology.2025; 60(4): 967. CrossRef
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The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on hospital admissions for psychiatric disorders: results from the multicentre study on the Italian population “COVID-19 and Mental Health” (CoMeH)
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Alessio Petrelli, Martina Ventura, Roberta Ciampichini, Anteo Di Napoli, Valeria Fano, Christian Napoli, Martina Pacifici, Claudio Rosini, Caterina Silvestri, Fabio Voller, Alberto Zucchi, Massimiliano Aragona
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BMC Psychiatry.2023;[Epub] CrossRef
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PLOS ONE.2023; 18(7): e0289310. CrossRef

COVID-19: Special Article

Changes in mental health of Korean adolescents before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a special report using the Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey: Bomi Park, Jihee Kim, Jieun Yang, Sunhye Choi, Kyungwon Oh; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023019. Published online February 14, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023019

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
We aimed to study the effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on adolescents’ mental health in Korea.

METHODS

We used data from the Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey 2018-2021 with 227,139 students aged 12-18 years. We estimated the differences in depressive symptoms, suicidal ideation, and stress perception before (2018-2019) and during (2020-2021) the pandemic, as well as before (2019), the first year (2020) of, and the second year (2021) of the pandemic. We also examined whether COVID-19 is statistically associated with mental health.

RESULTS

In both male and female adolescents, the prevalence of depressive symptoms, suicidal ideation, and stress perception was higher in the “not living with family,” “low household economic status,” and “self-rated unhealthy status” subgroups. The prevalence of depressive symptoms and stress perception was higher in middle school students. Adolescents were less likely to experience depressive symptoms (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.86; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.83 to 0.89), suicidal ideation (aOR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.76 to 0.83), and stress perception (aOR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.74 to 0.79) in 2020 than in 2019. However, there were more depressive symptoms (aOR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.02 to 1.09), suicidal ideation (aOR, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.10 to 1.21), and stress perception (aOR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.16 to 1.23) in 2021 than in 2020.

CONCLUSIONS

The COVID-19 pandemic had positive impacts on mental health of adolescents in its early stages but has had negative impacts as the pandemic continues. Attention should be paid to adolescents who are particularly vulnerable to the mental health effects of the pandemic.

Summary

Korean summary
The results from a nationally representative data showed that mental health in adolescents was improved in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic compared to before the COVID-19 pandemic, but it was deteriorated in the second year of the pandemic compared to the first year.

Key Message
본 연구에서는 대규모 건강조사를 이용하여 코로나19가 장기화됨에 따른 영향을 평가하고자 하였다. 2018년-2021년 청소년건강행태조사에 참여한 만 12-18세 청소년 227,139 명을 대상으로 분석한 결과, 코로나19 유행 첫번째 해(2020년)에는 코로나19 유행 이전에 비해 정신건강이 개선되었으나, 코로나19 유행 두 번째 해(2021년)에는 코로나19 유행 첫 번째 해에 비해 청소년 정신건강이 나빠졌다. 또한 가족과 함께 거주하지 않는 경우, 가정 경제 수준이 낮은 경우, 본인이 건강하지 않다고 인지하는 경우에 더 취약하였다.

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Changes in Mental Health Among Adolescents in South Korea Before and After COVID-19: An Interrupted Time Series Analysis From 2015 to 2022
Yeonjae Kim, Hyewon Park, YooWha Bhan, Donghwan Lee, Chang-Mo Oh, Weon Young Lee, Bomi Park
Journal of Adolescent Health.2025; 76(1): 72. CrossRef
Suicidality and self-harm in adolescents before and after the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review
Danilo Bastos Bispo Ferreira, Renata Maria Silva Santos, Maria Carolina Lobato Machado, Victhor Hugo Martins Rezende, Patrícia Gazire de Marco, Marco Aurélio Romano-Silva, Débora Marques de Miranda
Frontiers in Psychiatry.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Changes in psychiatric disorder incidence patterns during the COVID-19 pandemic in Korea: a study using the nationwide universal health insurance data
Changwoo Han, Juho Choi, Hoyeon Jang, Hwa-Young Lee, Tarik Benmarhnia, Juhwan Oh
BMC Psychiatry.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Excess mortality during the Coronavirus disease pandemic in Korea
Changwoo Han, Hoyeon Jang, Juhwan Oh
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A Comparison of Changes in Health Behavior, Obesity, and Mental Health of Korean Adolescents Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Online Cross-Sectional Study
Mi-Sun Lee, Hooyeon Lee
Psychiatry Investigation.2023; 20(11): 1086. CrossRef

COVID-19: Special Article

Changes in health behaviors and obesity of Korean adolescents before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a special report using the Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey: Chang-Mo Oh, Yangha Kim, Jieun Yang, Sunhye Choi, Kyungwon Oh; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023018. Published online February 14, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023018

24,974 View
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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study aimed to investigate changes in health behaviors, including cigarette smoking, alcohol drinking, physical activity, dietary behaviors, and obesity, before and during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic using the Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey (KYRBS) database.

METHODS

KYRBS data from 2015 to 2021 were used in this study. Differences in health behaviors between before (pre-pandemic period: 2018-2019) and during (pandemic period: 2020-2021) the pandemic were examined. Differences were compared using linear regression and the chi-square test considering the complex survey design after adjusting for grade level.

RESULTS

The prevalence of current cigarette smoking and current alcohol drinking significantly decreased in both male and female students during the pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period. However, the prevalence of obesity significantly increased in both male and female students during the same period. When examining physical activity and dietary behaviors closely related to obesity, fast food consumption increased and fruit consumption decreased during the pandemic in both male and female students, whereas no significant changes in physical activity were observed in either male or female students.

CONCLUSIONS

The deterioration of adolescent dietary behaviors and an increase in the prevalence of obesity can increase the future disease burden, and concerted efforts at the individual and national levels are needed to reduce obesity and promote healthy dietary behaviors.

Summary

Korean summary
이 연구는 한국 청소년건강행태조사자료(KYRBS)를 사용하여 코로나19 유행 전후의 우리나라 청소년들의 흡연, 음주, 신체활동, 식습관, 비만 등의 건강행태의 변화에 대하여 살펴보고자 하였다. 이 연구에서는 2015년부터 2021년까지의 청소년건강행태조사자료를 사용하여, 코로나19 유행 이전 (2018-2019년)과 코로나 유행 이후 (2020-2021년) 기간의 건강행태의 변화에 대하여 조사하였다. 학년레벨을 보정한 후, 복합표본설계를 고려하여 로지스틱 회귀분석과 카이제곱검정을 이용하여 코로나19 유행 이전 (2018-2019년)과 비교하여, 코로나 유행 이후 (2020-2021년) 기간의 건강행태의 변화가 있었는지에 대하여 확인하였다. 그 결과, 코로나19 유행 이전 (2018-2019년)과 비교하여, 코로나19 유행 기간(2020-2021년) 동안에 현재흡연율과 현재음주율이 유의하게 감소하였다. 그러나 동일한 기간 동안에 남학생과 여학생 모두에서 비만율이 유의하게 증가하였는데, 비만율과 관련된 신체활동 및 식습관에 대하여 살펴보았을 때, 신체활동에서는 유의한 변화가 없었던 반면, 남학생과 여학생 모두에서 패스트푸드 섭취는 증가하고 과일섭취가 감소한 것으로 나타났다. 따라서 코로나19 유행기간 동안 흡연율 및 음주율 등의 청소년 건강에 유익한 변화도 있었으나, 비만율도 같이 증가한 것을 확인할 수 있었다. 청소년기의 식습관의 악화 및 비만율의 증가는 미래 우리나라의 질병부담을 증가시킬 수 있기 때문에, 청소년의 비만율을 낮추고 건강한 식습관을 증진시키기 위한 개인 및 사회 차원의 노력이 필요하다.

Key Message
-The current cigarette smoking and current alcohol drinking rates significantly decreased among Korean adolescents during the pandemic period compared to the pre-pandemic period. -On the other hand, the obesity rate increased significantly especially among Korean male adolescents, which is accompanied by changes in dietary habits such as an increase in fast food intake and a decrease in fruit intake.

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COVID-19: Health Statistics

Changes in food and nutrient intakes in Korean adults before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: data from the 2011-2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: Kyungwon Oh, Suyeon Park, Sihyun Park, Sungha Yun, Hongseok Choi, Eun Kyeong Jeong; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023015. Published online February 1, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023015

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study was to examine the changes in dietary habits and food and nutrient intakes between before (2019) and during (2020) the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES).

METHODS

A total of 54,995 participants aged ≥19 years who participated in the 2011-2020 KNHANES were included. The 10-year trend (2011-2020) and differences between 2019 and 2020 for dietary habits and food and nutrient intakes were estimated using SAS.

RESULTS

In the past 10 years (2011-2020), the dietary habits (increase in skipping meals and eating out), food intake (increase in meats and decrease in fruits and vegetables), and nutrient intake (increase in fat and decrease in sodium) in adults have changed. When comparing between 2019 and 2020, there were 4.6%p decrease in the eating out more than once a day. On the other hand, there were no significant differences in the intakes of food, energy and most of nutrients between 2019 and 2020, except for the proportion of energy intake from fat (1.0%p increase) and carbohydrate (1.0%p decrease).

CONCLUSIONS

Although a change in dietary habits from before to during the COVID-19 pandemic was observed, food and nutrient intakes have not deteriorated markedly and appear similar to the trends in the past 10 years. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, it is necessary to monitor the effects of changes in dietary habits on health as well as food and nutrient intakes.

Summary

Korean summary
코로나19 유행 전, 후 비교 시, 외식 감소, 가정식 섭취 증가 등 식생활은 변화가 있었으나 주요 식품 및 영양소 섭취는 큰 변화없이 최근 10년간의 추이가 지속되고 있었다.

Key Message
Although a change in dietary habits from before to during the COVID-19 pandemic was observed, food and nutrient intakes have not deteriorated markedly and appear similar to the trends in the past 10 years in Korean adults.

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COVID-19: Health Statistics

Changes in the management of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hypercholesterolemia in Korean adults before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: data from the 2010-2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: Yoonjung Kim, Suyeon Park, Kyungwon Oh, Hongseok Choi, Eun Kyeong Jeong; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023014. Published online February 1, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023014

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Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study aimed to analyze the changes in chronic disease management indicators, including hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hypercholesteremia, from 2010-2020 and before (2019) and during (2020) the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

METHODS

This study included 58,504 individuals aged ≥30 years who participated in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2010-2020. Trends in the prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of chronic diseases and the difference in those between before and during the COVID-19 pandemic were analyzed using the SAS program PROC SURVEYREG.

RESULTS

From 2010-2020, the awareness, treatment, and control in adults aged ≥30 years for hypertension and hypercholesterolemia continuously improved, whereas no significant change in the management indicators of diabetes mellitus was observed. The prevalence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hypercholesterolemia in men increased from before to during the COVID- 19 pandemic. However, there was no significant change in the management indicators of hypertension and diabetes mellitus in men and women, and the awareness, treatment, and control rates for hypercholesterolemia increased by 5.5%p, 6.9%p, and 4.1%p respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In 2020, the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, the prevalence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hypercholesterolemia increased, but the management indicators of the chronic diseases did not significantly deteriorate. Considering the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is necessary to monitor changes in chronic disease management indicators and to develop efficient and accessible chronic disease prevention and management programs.

Summary

Korean summary
국민건강영양조사 자료를 분석한 결과 11년간(2010-2020년) 성인의 고혈압, 고콜레스테롤혈증 인지율, 치료율, 치료자 중 조절률은 개선된 반면 당뇨병은 변화가 없었다. 코로나19 유행 전(2019년)·후(2020년) 비교시 남자에서 고혈압, 당뇨병, 고콜레스테롤혈증 유병률이 증가했다. 그러나 고혈압, 당뇨병 관리지표는 변화가 없었고, 고콜레스테롤혈증 관리지표만 개선되었다.

Key Message
The rates of awareness, treatment, and control in adults aged ≥30 years for hypertension and hypercholesterolemia continuously improved, whereas no significant change in the management indicators of diabetes mellitus was observed over the past 11 years (2010-2020). The prevalence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hypercholesterolemia in men increased from before (2019) to during (2020) the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there was no significant change in the management indicators of hypertension and diabetes mellitus in men and women, and that of hypercholesterolemia improved.

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Predictive Model of Medication Adherence among Hypertension and Diabetes Patients Using the Korea Health Panel Data
Seonhye Jeong, Yuyoung Lee, Moonhyang Kim, Yeoungsuk Song
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COVID-19: Original Article

Associations of racial and ethnic discrimination with adverse changes in exercise and screen time during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States: Tong Xia, Gilbert C. Gee, Jian Li, Xinyue Liu, Jin Dai, Lu Shi, Donglan Zhang, Zhuo Chen, Xuesong Han, Yan Li, Hongmei Li, Ming Wen, Dejun Su, Liwei Chen; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023013. Published online January 28, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023013

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a growing prevalence of racial and ethnic discrimination occurred when many Americans struggled to maintain healthy lifestyles. This study investigated the associations of racial and ethnic discrimination with changes in exercise and screen time during the pandemic in the United States.

METHODS

We included 2,613 adults who self-identified as non-Hispanic White, non-Hispanic Black, non-Hispanic Asian, or Hispanic from the Health, Ethnicity, and Pandemic study, a cross-sectional survey conducted among a nationally representative sample of United States adults between October and November 2020. We assessed self-reported racial and ethnic discrimination by measuring COVID-19-related racial and ethnic bias and examined its associations with changes in exercise and screen time using multivariable logistic regression models. We analyzed data between September 2021 and March 2022.

RESULTS

COVID-19-related racial and ethnic bias was associated with decreased exercise time among non-Hispanic Asian (odds ratio [OR], 1.46; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.13 to 1.89) and Hispanic people (OR, 1.91; 95% CI, 1.32 to 2.77), and with increased screen time among non-Hispanic Black people (OR, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.33 to 2.85), adjusting for age, sex, education, marital status, annual household income, insurance, and employment status.

CONCLUSIONS

Racial and ethnic discrimination may have adversely influenced exercise and screen time changes among racial and ethnic minorities during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States. Further studies are needed to investigate the mechanisms through which racial and ethnic discrimination can impact lifestyles and to develop potential strategies to address racial and ethnic discrimination as a barrier to healthy lifestyles.

Summary

Key Message
In this study with a nationally representative sample of Americans, we found that racial discrimination during the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with undesired changes in exercise and screen time, particularly among minorities.

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Addressing Racism and Discrimination in the Design of Physical Activity Interventions for Black Women: Insights and Recommendations From an Academic and Community Partnership
Rodney P. Joseph, LaTanya Mathis, Iyana Harris, Shawntele M. Howie-Carlson, Kanika Jones, Darlene Little, Dawn Augusta
Women's Health Issues.2025; 35(5): 301. CrossRef
Asian American Women’s Experiences of Discrimination and Health Behaviors during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Katarina Wang, Alice Guan, Janice Seto, Debora L. Oh, Kathie Lau, Christine Duffy, Esperanza Castillo, Valerie McGuire, Michelle Wadhwa, Clifford G. Tepper, Heather A. Wakelee, Mindy C. DeRouen, Salma Shariff-Marco, Iona Cheng, Scarlett Lin Gomez
Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health.2024; 26(2): 421. CrossRef
Facilitators, motivations, and barriers to physical activity among Chinese American women
Jingxi Sheng, Hao Lei, Demetrius A. Abshire, Horng-Shiuann Wu, Michael D. Wirth, Sue P. Heiney
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Nilay S. Shah, Namratha R. Kandula, Yvonne Commodore-Mensah, Brittany N. Morey, Shivani A. Patel, Sally Wong, Eugene Yang, Stella Yi
Circulation.2024;[Epub] CrossRef

COVID-19: Brief Communication

Self-reported adverse events after 2 doses of COVID-19 vaccine in Korea: Yunhyung Kwon, Insob Hwang, Mijeong Ko, Hyungjun Kim, Seontae Kim, Soon-Young Seo, Enhi Cho, Yeon-Kyeng Lee; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023006. Published online December 26, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023006

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Abstract Summary PDF

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
In Korea, a national coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program was implemented, including 4 vaccines against COVID-19. A text messaging-based survey, in addition to a passive adverse event reporting system, was launched to quickly report unusual symptoms post-vaccination. This study compared the frequency of adverse events after COVID-19 vaccination based on the vaccine type and the type of 2-dose regimen (homologous or heterologous).

METHODS

Self-reported adverse events were collected through a text-message survey for 7 days after each vaccination. This study included 50,950 vaccine recipients who responded to the survey at least once. Informed consent to receive surveys via text was obtained from the vaccine recipients on the date of first vaccination.

RESULTS

The recipients of mRNA vaccines reported local and systemic reactions 1.6 times to 2.8 times more frequently after dose 2 than after dose 1 (p<0.001), whereas ChAdOx1-S recipients reported significantly fewer local and systemic reactions after dose 2 than after dose 1 (p<0.001). Local and systemic reactions were approximately 2 times and 4 times more frequent for heterologous vaccination than for BNT162b2/BNT162b2 and ChAdOx1-S/ChAdOx1-S regimens, respectively. Young individuals, female, and those receiving heterologous vaccine regimens including ChAdOx1-S/BNT162b2 vaccines reported more adverse events than older participants, male, and those with homologous vaccine regimens.

CONCLUSIONS

Although a heterologous regimen, youth, and female sex were associated with a higher risk of adverse reactions after COVID-19 vaccination, no critical issues were noted. Active consideration of heterologous schedules based on the evidence of efficacy and safety appears desirable.

Summary

Korean summary
본 연구는 코로나19 백신 접종 후 7일 동안 문자 설문조사를 통해 50,950명이 자가 보고한 이상반응자료를 분석하였다. mRNA 백신 접종자는1회 접종 후보다 2회 접종 후 국소 이상반응 및 전신이상반응을 1.6~2.8배 더 자주 보고한 반면, ChAdOx1-S 백신 접종자는1회 접종 후 보다 2회 접종 후 이상반응을 더 적게 보고하였다. 동종 백신접종 보다 교차 접종의 경우 2-4배 더 많은 이상반응을 보고 하였다. COVID-19 백신 접종 후 교차접종, 젊은 연령, 여성의 경우 좀 더 많은 이상반응을 보고하였지만,중대한 문제는 보고되지 않았다.

Key Message
Self-reported adverse events were collected through a text-message survey from 50,950 recipients for 7 days after COVID-19 vaccination. The mRNA vaccine recipients reported local and systemic reactions 1.6 to 2.8 times more frequently after dose 2 than after dose 1, whereas ChAdOx1-S recipients reported significantly fewer local and systemic reactions after dose 2 than after dose 1. Local and systemic reactions were approximately 2 to 4 times more frequent for heterologous vaccination than for homologous regimens. Although a heterologous regimen, youth, and female were associated with a higher risk of adverse reac¬tions after COVID-19 vaccination, no critical issues were noted.

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Yeji Kim, Kyungdo Han, Jae Hui Kim
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Journal of Korean Medical Science.2023;[Epub] CrossRef

COVID-19: Brief Communication

Clinical severity according to the primary infection variant in patients with suspected SARS-CoV-2 reinfection in Korea: Myung-Jae Hwang, Insob Hwang, Chungmin Park, Hanul Park, Taejong Son, Jong-Hun Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023007. Published online December 21, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023007

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Abstract

OBJECTIVES
We aimed to evaluate the severity of suspected severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) reinfection according to variants of concern in Gyeongsangbuk-do and Daegu, Korea.

METHODS

The database of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases reported from epidemiological investigations through the integrated system operated by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, from January 20, 2020 to May 7, 2022 was combined with data from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service system. The severity odds ratio (SOR) in secondary infection episodes compared with primary infection was estimated using a generalized linear model with a binomial distribution.

RESULTS

In all patients, the SOR of SARS-CoV-2 reinfection was 0.89 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.82 to 0.95), and the severity was lower than in the first infection. Patients who had been vaccinated within 91 days showed a more attenuated SOR (0.85; 95% CI, 0.74 to 0.98). However, despite vaccination, in patients with both primary and secondary infections caused by the Omicron variant, the severity was reduced to a lesser extent than in patients primarily infected with other variants.

CONCLUSIONS

We could make efforts to relieve the severity of COVID-19 in vulnerable populations, in which death is more likely, by recommending booster vaccinations in case of a resurgence.

Summary

Korean summary
국내 COVID-19 확진자들의 중증도 증가 위험은 재감염(2차감염) 시 감소하였지만, 1차감염과 재감염 모두 오미크론론 변이가 우세하였던 시기인 경우에는 오히려 증가하였다. 특히 마지막 예방접종일로부터 91일 이상인 확진자들과 60세이상 인구에서는 중증도 증가 위험이 더 높았다. 우리는 COVID-19가 장기화됨에 따라 취약인구집단에 대해 추가 예방접종을 권고함으로써 재감염시 중증도가 증가하는 것을 예방해야 할 필요가 있다.

Key Message
As COVID-19 prolongs, there is a need to recommend booster vaccinations for vulnerable populations to prevent the potential for increased severity in the event of reinfection.

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Boyeong Ryu, Eunjeong Shin, Dong Hwi Kim, HyunJu Lee, So Young Choi, Seong-Sun Kim, Il-Hwan Kim, Eun-Jin Kim, Sangwon Lee, Jaehyun Jeon, Donghyok Kwon, Sungil Cho
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COVID-19: Original Article

Parental concerns about COVID-19 vaccine safety and hesitancy in Korea: implications for vaccine communication: Hye-Kyung Cho, Hyunju Lee, Young June Choe, Shinkyeong Kim, Sujin Seo, Jiwon Moon, Eun Hwa Choi, Geun-Yong Kwon, Jee Yeon Shin, Sang-Yoon Choi, Mi Jin Jeong, Myoungsoon You; Epidemiol Health. 2023;45:e2023004. Published online December 13, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2023004

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Abstract Summary PDF

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Vaccination is one of the most important strategies to contain the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Vaccination in children is dependent on their parents, making it important to understand parents’ awareness and attitudes toward vaccines in order to devise strategies to raise vaccination rates in children.

METHODS

A web-based nationwide survey was conducted among Korean parents of 7-year-old to 18-year-old children in August 2021 to estimate parents’ intention to vaccinate their children against COVID-19 and identify key factors affecting parental acceptance and hesitancy through regression analysis.

RESULTS

Approximately 56.4% (575/1,019) were willing to vaccinate their children against COVID-19. Contributing factors to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy were being a mother (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.36; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.25 to 0.52), a lower education level (aOR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.70 to 0.97), hesitancy to other childhood vaccines (aOR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.64 to 0.96), and refusal to vaccinate themselves (aOR, 0.08; 95% CI, 0.02 to 0.20). Having older children (aOR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.13 to 1.28), trusting the child’s doctor (aOR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.07 to 1.32), positive perceptions of the COVID-19 vaccine’s effectiveness (aOR, 2.60; 95% CI, 1.90 to 3.57) and perceiving the COVID-19 vaccine as low-risk (aOR, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.27 to 2.24) were associated with COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. Concerns about adverse reactions were the most common cause of hesitancy.

CONCLUSIONS

Providing parents with accurate and reliable information on vaccine effectiveness and safety is important to increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake in children. Differential or targeted approaches to parents according to gender, age, and their children’s age are necessary for effective communication about vaccination in children.

Summary

Korean summary
부모에게 백신 효과와 안전성에 대한 정확하고 믿을만한 정보를 제공하는 것이 소아 코로나19 백신 접종률을 높이는데 중요하다. 자녀의 백신 접종에 대한 의사소통을 효율적으로 하기 위해서는 부모의 성별과 연령, 자녀의 연령을 고려한 차별적인 접근 방법이 필요하다.

Key Message
To improve COVID-19 vaccine uptake in children, it's crucial to provide parents with reliable and precise information about vaccine safety and effectiveness. Targeted communication strategies that consider factors such as the age of the parents and their children, as well as gender, may be necessary to effectively convey this information.

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Emily A. Andrews, Nathan Walter, Yotam Ophir, Dror Walter, Christiana L. Robbins
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Ah‐Ra Kim, Chiara Achangwa, Hyeon Nam Do, Eun Young Jang, Yukyung Nam, Seonghui Cho, Taegu Kim, Hye‐Sook Jeong, Gi‐eun Rhie, Kyungwon Oh, Seunghyun Lewis Kwon, Seunghyeon Lee, Junewoo Lee, Sukhyun Ryu
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COVID-19: Original Article

Cause-specific mortality in Korea during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic: Jinwook Bahk, Kyunghee Jung-Choi; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022110. Published online November 23, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022110

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study aimed to examine the trends in total mortality between 1998 and 2020 and to compare the changes in a wide range of detailed causes of death between 2020 (i.e., during the coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19] pandemic) and the previous year in Korea.

METHODS

We used registered population and mortality data for the years 1998-2020 obtained from Statistics Korea. The age-standardized all-cause mortality rate and the annual percent change between 1998 and 2020 were determined. The rate ratio and rate difference of the age-standardized mortality rate between 2019 and 2020 were calculated.

RESULTS

The age-standardized all-cause mortality rate in Korea has been on a downward trend since 1998, and the decline continued in 2020. In 2020, 950 people died from COVID-19, accounting for 0.3% of all deaths. Mortality decreased for most causes of death; however, the number of deaths attributed to sepsis and aspiration pneumonia increased between 2019 and 2020 for both men and women. Age-specific mortality rates decreased or remained stable between 2019 and 2020 for all age groups, except women aged 25-29. This increase was mainly attributed to a higher number of suicide deaths.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shed light on the issues of sepsis and aspiration pneumonia despite the successful response to COVID-19 in Korea in 2020. Cases of death from sepsis and aspiration pneumonia should be identified and monitored. In addition, it is necessary to develop a proactive policy to address suicide among young people, especially young women.

Summary

Korean summary
1998년 이래 한국의 연령표준화 총사망률은 지속적으로 감소하였고, 이러한 경향은 코로나19 대유행 첫해인 2020년에도 관찰되었다. 대부분 사망원인별 사망률이 코로나19 대유행이후에도 감소하였으나, 패혈증 및 흡인성 폐렴으로 인한 사망자가 남성과 여성 모두에서 증가했다. 연령별 사망률에서는 25-29세 여성을 제외한 모든 연령대에서 2019년에 비해 2020년 사망률이 감소하거나 유지되었고, 25-29세 여성의 사망률 증가는 주로 자살 사망의 증가에 기인했다.

Key Message
During 1988-2020, the age-standardized all-cause mortality rate in Korea has been on a downward trend and the decline continued in 2020. In 2020, mortality decreased for most causes of death, however, the number of deaths attributed to sepsis and aspiration pneumonia increased between 2019 and 2020. Age-specific mortality rates decreased or remained stable between 2019 and 2020 for all age groups, except women aged 25-29. This was mainly attributed to increased suicide deaths.

Citations

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Suicide mortality rates in Japan before and beyond the COVID‐19 pandemic era
Motohiro Okada, Ryusuke Matsumoto, Eishi Motomura
Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences Reports.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Temporal Fluctuations of Suicide Mortality in Japan from 2009 to 2023 Using Government Databases
Ryusuke Matsumoto, Eishi Motomura, Motohiro Okada
European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education.2024; 14(4): 1086. CrossRef
Unraveling the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mortality trends in Belgium between 2020–2022
Yessika Adelwin Natalia, Johan Verbeeck, Christel Faes, Thomas Neyens, Geert Molenberghs
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Zahra Pirayesh, Seyed Mohammad Riahi, Ali Bidokhti, Toba Kazemi
Frontiers in Public Health.2023;[Epub] CrossRef

COVID-19: Original Article

Effect of socioeconomic disparities on the risk of COVID-19 in 8 metropolitan cities in the Korea: a community-based study: Myung-Jae Hwang, Shin Young Park, Tae-Ho Yoon, Jinhwa Jang, Seon-Young Lee, Myeongsu Yoo, Yoo-Yeon Kim, Hae-Kwan Cheong, Donghyok Kwon, Jong-Hun Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022107. Published online November 15, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022107

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Socioeconomic disparities have been reported as major risk factors contributing to the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) at the community level. We conducted an epidemiological study on COVID-19 incidence risk using area-based deprivation indices (DIs) reflecting the characteristics of the susceptible population.

METHODS

A database of the confirmed COVID-19 cases in 8 metropolitan cities in Korea from January 20, 2020 to December 31, 2021 was combined with area-based DI scores and standardized prevalence rates of diabetes and hypertension from the Korean Community Health Survey. Relative risk (RR) levels were estimated using a generalized linear model with a Poisson distribution by age group.

RESULTS

The risk of COVID-19 incidence generally increased with increasing age, especially in patients aged ≥75 years. The RR of COVID-19 incidence per interquartile range increment of the composite deprivation index (composite DI) was 1.54 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.34 to 1.70). Notably, in the first wave, the risk of COVID-19 incidence was approximately 3 times higher in the region with the lowest socioeconomic status than in the region with the highest status (RR, 3.08; 95% CI, 2.42 to 3.78 based on the the composite DI and RR, 3.13; 95% CI, 2.53 to 3.83 based on the social deprivation index).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides scientific evidence that socioeconomic deprivation is an important risk factor for the spread of COVID-19. This finding suggests that a mid-term to long-term strategy is needed to protect susceptible populations and reduce the burden of COVID-19 in the community.

Summary

Korean summary
한국의 COVID-19 발생 위험은 지역박탈수준이 높은 지역에서 증가하였고, 특히 유행 초기 75세이상 연령층에서 뚜렷하게 증가하는 것으로 나타났다. 따라서 지역사회수준에서 사회경제적 여건을 고려하여 취약집단에서의 발생위험을 감소시키기 위해 중장기 전략을 세워야 한다는 것을 시사한다.

Key Message
There is a need to develop long-term strategies to reduce the risk of COVID-19 outbreaks in vulnerable populations in areas with poor socioeconomic conditions

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Yearly Spatiotemporal Patterns of COVID-19 During the Pandemic Period: An In-Depth Analysis of Regional Trends and Risk Factors in the Republic of Korea
Chiara Achangwa, Jung-Hee Park, Moo-Sik Lee
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Association between Job Types and Income Change after COVID-19
Jung-Won Lee, Young-Jin Kim, Min-Hee Heo, Ji-Hee Lyu, Jin-Won Noh, Kyoung-Beom Kim
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Frontiers in Public Health.2023;[Epub] CrossRef

COVID-19: Original Article

Perceived usefulness of COVID-19 tools for contact tracing among contact tracers in Korea: Seonyeong Gong, Jong Youn Moon, Jaehun Jung; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022106. Published online November 15, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022106

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
In Korea, contact tracing for coronavirus disease 2019 is conducted using information from credit card records, handwritten visitor logs, KI-Pass (QR code), and the Safe Call system after an interview. We investigated the usefulness of these tools for contact tracing.

METHODS

An anonymous survey was conducted for 2 months (July to September 2021) among contact tracers throughout Korea. The questionnaire consisted of 4 parts: (1) demographic characteristics; (2) the usefulness of each tool for contact tracing; (3) the order in which information was checked during contact tracing; and (4) the match rate between tools for contact tracing, screening test rate, response rate, and helpfulness (rated on a Likert scale).

RESULTS

In total, 190 individuals completed the survey. When asked to rate the usefulness of each tool for contact tracing on a Likert scale, most respondents (86.3%) provided positive responses for credit card records, while the most common responses for handwritten visitor logs were negative. The highest percentage of positive responses for helpfulness was found for KI-Pass (91.1%), followed in descending order by credit card records (82.6%), Safe Call (78.2%), and handwritten visitor logs (22.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

Over 80% of participants provided positive responses for credit card records, KI-Pass, and Safe Call data, while approximately 50% provided negative responses regarding the usefulness of handwritten visitor logs. Our findings highlight the need to unify systems for post-interview contact tracing to increase their convenience for contact tracers, as well as the need to improve tools utilizing handwritten visitor logs for digitally vulnerable groups.

Summary

Korean summary
본 연구는 국내 역학조사 담당자들을 대상으로 시행한 설문조사를 중심으로 면담조사 후 추가적으로 실시하는 다양한 접촉자 추적 방법의 유용성에 대한 분석을 목표로 한다. 응답자 중 약 80% 이상이 카드결제기록, KI-Pass, GPS 및 CCTV 정보의 유용성에 대해 긍정적으로 응답하였다. 반면 약 50%는 수기명부의 유용성에 대해 부정적으로 응답하였다. 본 연구의 결과는 역학조사관과 사용자 모두의 편의를 위해 역학조사 방법의 일원화가 필요할 뿐만 아니라 디지털 취약 계층을 위해 수기명부를 대체할 수 있는 시스템의 필요성을 시사한다.

Key Message
We conducted an anonymous online survey to assess the usefulness of tools for contact tracing for COVID-19 in Korea. Over 80% of participants provided positive responses regarding the usefulness of credit card records, KI-Pass, and Safe Call data, while approximately 50% provided negative responses regarding the usefulness of handwritten visitor logs. Our findings highlight the need to unify contact tracing systems to increase their convenience for contact tracers.

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Minjun Hong, Matthew Lariviere, Kilkon Ko
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Danielle Guy, Petya Kodjamanova, Lena Woldmann, Jyoti Sahota, Melanie Bannister-Tyrrell, Yajna Elouard, Marie-Amélie Degail, Bashar Haruna Gulumbe
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COVID-19: Original Article

Changes in eating behaviors according to household income in adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic: findings from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: Hye Ah Lee, Ho Jung Lee, Bomi Park, Yoonhee Shin, Hyunjin Park, Hyesook Park; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022102. Published online November 9, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022102

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
To assess social inequalities in changes in dietary behaviors among adolescents during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, we compared changes in dietary behavior indicators by household income.

METHODS

Using cross-sectional data from the 2019 and 2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, the prevalence of dietary behaviors in adolescents (12-18 years old) was estimated and changes in dietary behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic were evaluated. We assessed changes in dietary behaviors with a household income (as a measure of socioeconomic status, SES) disparity.

RESULTS

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the average consumption of vegetables decreased and food insecurity worsened. Adolescents were more likely to skip breakfast than before COVID-19 (33.1 and 37.4%). Soft drink consumption also increased in 2020 from 2019 (7.6 and 14.8%), especially among boys. Average sugar intake and sodium intake showed a tendency to decrease only in girls, but there was no significant difference according to SES level. Skipping breakfast was particularly evident in the low-SES group, and the difference according to household income level (high vs. low) was greater during COVID-19 than before. The prevalence of soft drink consumption increased significantly in the low-SES group, but the rate of increase did not differ by SES level.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that the social disparity in skipping breakfast was further aggravated during the COVID-19 pandemic. To reach a better understanding of the dietary behaviors of adolescents, continuous monitoring is necessary.

Summary

Korean summary
국민건강영양조사 자료를 활용하여, COVID-19 팬데믹 전후 청소년의 식생활 변화 및 가구소득 수준에 따른 차이를 평가하였다. 대체로, 평균 채소 섭취량은 감소하고 탄산음료 소비는 증가한 것으로 나타났으며, 아침식사 결식율도 약간 증가한 것으로 나타났다. 게다가, 가구소득 수준에 따라 평가하였을 때, 아침식사 결식율 증가는 가구소득이 높은 군에 비해 가구소득 수준이 낮은 군에서 두드러진 것으로 나타났다. COVID-19 팬데믹이 장기화됨에 따라, 청소년의 식생활 변화에 대해서는 지속적인 모니터링이 필요하다.

Key Message
Using data from the 2019 and 2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, changes in dietary behaviors of adolescents (12-18 years old) during the COVID-19 pandemic were evaluated. During the COVID-19 pandemic, average consumption of vegetables decreased and consumption of soft drinks increased in 2020 from 2019 (7.6% and 14.8%). In addition, the social disparity in skipping breakfast among adolescents was further aggravated. To reach a better understanding of the dietary behaviors of adolescents, continuous monitoring is necessary.

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Nicolas Woods, Jamie A Seabrook, Holly Schaafsma, Shauna Burke, Trish Tucker, Jason Gilliland
The Journal of Nutrition.2024; 154(4): 1376. CrossRef
Perceived Familial Financial Insecurity and Obesity Among Korean Adolescents During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Fumie Kaneko, Eunji Kim, Hokyou Lee, Kokoro Shirai, Ryo Kawasaki, Hyeon Chang Kim
Journal of Epidemiology.2024; 34(12): 587. CrossRef
Intake of energy and macronutrients according to household income among elementary, middle, and high school students before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study
Chae-Eun Jeong, Heejin Lee, Jung Eun Lee
Korean Journal of Community Nutrition.2024; 29(3): 234. CrossRef
Analysis of health behavior, mental health, and nutritional status among Korean adolescents before and after COVID-19 outbreak: based on the 2019–2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
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Journal of Nutrition and Health.2023; 56(6): 667. CrossRef

Original Articles

Changes in the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Korean adults after the COVID-19 outbreak: Ji-Young Kwon, Sang-Wook Song; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022101. Published online November 5, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022101

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Abstract PDF

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study sought to reveal changes in the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) after the start of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and to identify the groups showing the greatest changes.

METHODS

We compared the prevalence of MetS between 2017–2019 (i.e., the 3-year period before the COVID-19 pandemic) and soon after the initial outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020 among 24,564 adults ≥ 19 years of age using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

RESULTS

The prevalence of MetS increased steadily between 2017 and 2020 (29.4 to 35.3%, p for trend < 0.001), with annual percent changes of 2.0%p, 2.2%p, and 1.7%p, respectively. Compared to 3 years before the COVID-19 pandemic, the prevalence of MetS significantly increased during the COVID-19 pandemic in males (6.2%p; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.5 to 8.9) compared to females (1.5%p; 95% CI, -1.2 to 4.1). The age groups with the greatest increases in MetS prevalence after the COVID-19 pandemic were those in their 40s (4.6%p; 95% CI, 0.9 to 8.4) and 50s (5.8%p; 95% CI, 2.2 to 9.4). By educational background, the increase in MetS prevalence was greatest among those with a college degree or higher (5.1%p). The prevalence of MetS in high-income (5.3%p) and low-income (4.6%p) groups significantly increased.

CONCLUSIONS

The increasing trend in the overall prevalence of MetS continued during the COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, the prevalence of MetS among adult males in their 40s and 50s increased significantly after the COVID-19 outbreak in Korea.

Summary

Citations

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Changes in the prevalence of metabolic syndrome before and after the COVID-19 pandemic according to household income levels
Hyunjung Kang, Dagyeong Lee, Junhee Park, Su-Min Jung
Korean Journal of Family Medicine.2025; 46(1): 27. CrossRef
Incidence of metabolic syndrome among radiation workers exposed to low dose radiation: a national cohort study in Korea
Eunbi Noh, Songwon Seo, Dalnim Lee, Eun Shil Cha, Minsu Cho, Won Il Jang, Eun Woo Nam
BMC Public Health.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Binational comparison of the association between socioeconomic status and metabolic syndrome: A nationally representative study in South Korea and the United States
Yoon Lee, Ye Won Kim, Juyeong Kim, André Hajek, Yusheng Li, Jiyoung Hwang, Selin Woo, Dong Keon Yon
Preventive Medicine Reports.2025; 60: 103298. CrossRef
Deep autoencoders and multivariate analysis for enhanced hypertension detection during the COVID-19 era
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Metabolic Syndrome Prevalence Change Before and After the COVID-19 Epidemic: Using Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2018-2021
Jung-Hwa Kim, Kyung-Hee Kim, Gyu Bin Park, Won Kee Lee
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Frontiers in Medicine.2023;[Epub] CrossRef
Body mass index and prevalence of metabolic syndrome among Korean adults before and after the COVID-19 outbreak: a retrospective longitudinal study
Joo-Eun Jeong, Hoon-Ki Park, Hwan-Sik Hwang, Kye-Yeung Park, Myoung-Hye Lee, Seon-Hi Shin, Nayeon Choi
Epidemiology and Health.2023; 45: e2023081. CrossRef

No evidence of delay in colorectal cancer diagnosis during the COVID-19 pandemic in Gwangju and Jeonnam, Korea: Hye-Yeon Kim, Min-Gyeong Kim, Mi-Ran Kang, Jeong-Ho Yang, Min-Ho Shin, Sun-Seog Kweon; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022092. Published online October 17, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022092

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Abstract Summary PDF

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
We evaluated whether the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused delays in the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) in Korea, where there have been no regional or hospital lockdowns during the pandemic period.

METHODS

Data on CRC patients (n=1,445) diagnosed in Gwangju Metropolitan City and Jeonnam Province between January 2019 and December 2021 were assessed. The stage at the time of CRC diagnosis, route to diagnosis, time to initial cancer treatment, and length of hospital admission were compared before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Logistic regression was also performed to identify factors associated with the risk for diagnosis in an advanced stage.

RESULTS

No negative effects indicating a higher CRC stage at diagnosis or delayed treatment during the pandemic were observed. Instead, the risk for an advanced stage at diagnosis (TNM stage III/IV) decreased in CRC patients diagnosed during the pandemic (odds ratio, 0.768; 95% confidence interval, 0.647 to 0.911). No significant differences in the interval from diagnosis to operation or chemotherapy were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

No negative effects on CRC diagnosis and treatment were found until the end of 2021, which may be related to the small magnitude of the COVID-19 epidemic, the absence of a lockdown policy in Korea, and the rebound in the number of diagnostic colonoscopy procedures in 2021.

Summary

Korean summary
COVID-19 판데믹 시기에 진단된 대장암환자에서 진단병기의 지연과 치료의 지연이 발생한 증거는 찾을 수 없었다. 이것은 2021년까지 한국에서는 유행규모가 크지 않았고, 의료기관 또는 지역단위의 봉쇄정책이 거의 없었기 때문일 것으로 추정된다.

Key Message
No evidence of delayed diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer was found during the COVID-19 pandemic period (2020-2021) in Gwangju-Jeonnam, Korea. It may be related to the small magnitude of the COVID-19 epidemic, the absence of a lockdown policy in Korea.

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Hui Lionel Raphael Chen, Piea Peng Lee, Yun Zhao, Wei Hao Caleb Ng, Jiashen Zhao, Yu En Christopher Tan, Bo Jie Sean Loh, Kah-Hoe Pierce Chow, Hiang Khoon Tan, Kwong-Wei Emile Tan
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The association between tobacco or nicotine product use behaviors and non-compliance with mask-wearing during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study in Korea: Da-eun Lee, Heewon Kang, Sung-il Cho; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022087. Published online October 7, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022087

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material: Abstract
OBJECTIVES
It is necessary to investigate tobacco or nicotine product (TNP) use which acts as a risk factor for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. Especially, wearing a mask is difficult to practice while using TNP. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the association between TNP use behaviors and non-compliance with mask-wearing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
METHODS
The samples of 208,618 Korean adults from 2020 Community Health Survey in Korea were used. As an independent variable, TNP use behaviors such as TNP use status, changes in TNP use after the COVID-19 outbreak, TNP types, and attempt to quit were analyzed. Logistic regression was performed on gender-stratified participants.
RESULTS
Among men, the odds ratio (OR) of current and former TNP users were 2.00 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.66 to 2.40) and 1.32 (95% CI, 1.09 to 1.60), respectively, compared to never users. In women, OR was 1.50 (95% CI, 1.00 to 2.26) for former users. Cigarette use was more associated with not wearing a mask than non-cigarette tobacco or nicotine product (NCTNP) use (OR, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.12 to 2.08). Men whose TNP use decreased had lower non-compliance (OR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.36 to 0.74); while women whose TNP use increased had lower non-compliance (OR, 0.13; 95% CI, 0.07 to 0.26).
CONCLUSIONS
Current and former users were less likely to wear masks. Cigarette use was more associated with not wearing a mask than NCTNP use. Changes in TNP use showed association for men and women; however, in the opposite direction. Therefore, more attention should be paid to TNP use prevention and cessation support during the epidemic of respiratory infectious diseases. Moreover, it is necessary to identify risk factors of cigarette users in compliance with mask-wearing.; Summary

Korean summary
담배 또는 니코틴 제품 (Tobacco or Nicotine Products, TNPs) 현재사용자와 과거사용자는 비사용자 대비 마스크 미착용 연관성이 높고, 비궐련 담배 또는 니코틴 제품 (Non-Cigarette Tobacco or Nicotine Products, NCTNPs) 사용자보다는 일반담배 사용자의 마스크 미착용 연관성이 높다. 남성에서는 코로나19 유행 이전 대비 TNPs 사용이 감소했을 때, 여성에서는 증가했을 때 마스크 미착용 연관성이 낮았다. 따라서 호흡기 감염병 유행 시기에는 더욱 TNPs 사용 예방과 금연 지원에 관심을 가질 것을 제안한다.

Key Message
During the epidemic of respiratory infectious diseases, more attention should be paid to tobacco or nicotine products (TNPs) use prevention and cessation support.

Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies during the third wave of COVID-19 in the Seoul metropolitan area of Korea: Kyuhyun Yoon, Jayeun Kim, Kyong Ran Peck, Hyun Soo Kim, Hyukmin Lee, Yoo-Sung Hwang, Soon Young Lee, Sung-il Cho, Hun Jae Lee, Yeong-gyeong Kim, Byoungguk Kim, June-Woo Lee, Ah-Ra Kim, Hyeon Nam Do, Dong-Hyun Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022085. Published online September 30, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022085

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Abstract

OBJECTIVES
After the third wave of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), by mid-February 2021, approximately 0.16% of the Korean population was confirmed positive, which appeared to be among the lowest rates worldwide at that time. However, asymptomatic transmission is challenging for COVID-19 surveillance. Therefore, a community-based serosurvey of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection was conducted to understand the effectiveness of Korea’s strong containment strategy.

METHODS

We collected 5,002 residual sera samples from January 30 to March 3, 2021, from 265 medical facilities in Seoul, 346 in Gyeonggi Province, and 57 in Incheon. Sixty samples from tertiary institutions were excluded. We defined the sub-regions according to the addresses of the medical facilities where the specimens were collected. Elecsys Anti-SARS-CoV-2 was used for screening, and positivity was confirmed using the SARS-CoV-2 sVNT Kit. Prevalence was estimated using sampling weights and the Wilson score interval for a binomial proportion with a 95% confidence interval.

RESULTS

Among the 4,942 specimens, 32 and 25 tested positive for COVID-19 in the screening and confirmatory tests, respectively. The overall crude prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was 0.51%. The population-adjusted overall prevalence was 0.55% in women and 0.38% in men. The region-specific estimation was 0.67% and 0.30% in Gyeonggi Province and Seoul, respectively. No positive cases were detected in Incheon.

CONCLUSIONS

The proportion of undetected cases in Korea remained low as of early 2021. Therefore, an infection control strategy with exhaustive tracing and widespread pre-emptive testing appears to be effective in containing community spread of COVID-19.

Summary

Korean summary
코로나19바이러스 감염병(COVID-19)의 한국 내 3차 대유행기인 2020년 말 이후, 2021년 1월 우리나라 인구의 약 0.16%가 누적 확진되었으며, 이는 세계에서 매우 낮은 비율을 보이는 국가 중 하나였습니다. 그러나 COVID-19의 무증상 전파는 감염 확산방지와 감시체계에 문제점들을 초래할 수 있어 지역사회 기반 혈청 조사를 통해 그 현황을 파악했습니다. 2021년 1월 30일부터 3월 3일까지 서울, 경기, 인천 등 수도권 소재 1, 2차 의료기관에서 수집된 혈액검체의 잔여혈청표본 4942개에 대해 Roche사의 Elecsys Anti-SARS-CoV-2를 이용한 1차 항체검사와, GenScript의 SARS-CoV-2 sVNT Kit를 이용하여 2차 중화항체유무를 확인하였다. 4942명의 검체 중 1차 검사와 2차 중화항체검사에서 각각 32명과 25명이 항체 양성이었다. SARS-CoV-2 항체의 전체 수도권 조유병률은 0.51%였습니다. 인구의 연령보정 전체 유병률은 0.47%였으며, 성별로는 여성에서 0.55%, 남성에서 0.38%였습니다. 지역별 추정치는 경기도와 서울이 각각 0.67%와 0.30%였고, 인천에서는 양성사례가 발견되지 않았습니다. 한국의 미발견 사례 비율은 누적 확진율의 3배에 달하지만, 여전히 1% 미만으로 낮습니다. 철저한 추적과 광범위한 선제적 검사를 통한 감염 관리 전략이 지역사회에서 바이러스 확산을 억제하는 데 효과적이었던 것으로 보입니다.

Key Message
Around February 2021, the SARS-CoV-2 antibody test was conducted on the residual serum of adults (≥19 years) collected from primary and secondary medical institutions in the metropolitan area in South Korea. The estimated overall prevalence was 0.60% in the electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA) detecting IgG against the nucleocapsid protein and 0.47% for the neutralization antibody. The positivity of the confirmed test using surrogate neutralizing antibodies was only 78% of the ECLIA’s results. For prevention and control measures against the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infections and new variants emerge, serosurvey targeting community-dwelling people is needed to understand the changing status in the community.

Citations

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Effect of anti-S antibody titers on newly confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Korea: a community-based cohort study (K-SEROSMART Wave 2)
Jina Han, Jung Ae Kim, Hye Jin Baek, Eunbi Noh, Kay O. Lee, June-Woo Lee, Ah-Ra Kim, HyeonNam Do, Soon Young Lee, Dong-Hyun Kim
BMC Infectious Diseases.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Realistic Estimation of COVID-19 Infection by Seroprevalence Surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies: An Experience From Korea Metropolitan Area From January to May 2022
In Hwa Jeong, Jong-Hun Kim, Min-Jung Kwon, Jayoung Kim, Hee Jin Huh, Byoungguk Kim, Junewoo Lee, Jeong-hyun Nam, Eun-Suk Kang
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Korea Seroprevalence Study of Monitoring of SARS-COV-2 Antibody Retention and Transmission (K-SEROSMART): findings from national representative sample
Jina Han, Hye Jin Baek, Eunbi Noh, Kyuhyun Yoon, Jung Ae Kim, Sukhyun Ryu, Kay O Lee, No Yai Park, Eunok Jung, Sangil Kim, Hyukmin Lee, Yoo-Sung Hwang, Jaehun Jung, Hun Jae Lee, Sung-il Cho, Sangcheol Oh, Migyeong Kim, Chang-Mo Oh, Byengchul Yu, Young-Seo
Epidemiology and Health.2023; 45: e2023075. CrossRef

Inequitable distribution of excess mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic in Korea, 2020: Jin-Hwan Kim, Saerom Kim, Eunhye Park, Chang-yup Kim; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022081. Published online September 26, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022081

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Abstract PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study analyzed inequities in excess mortality according to region and socioeconomic position to explain the distribution of excess mortality in Korea in 2020.

METHODS

We acquired weekly all-cause mortality data from January 2015 to December 2020 from (1) the National Health Insurance Database and (2) Vital Statistics. Excess mortality for 2020 was calculated by comparing the weekly observed and expected deaths from the same period (2015-2019) using quasi-Poisson regression.

RESULTS

An inequitable distribution of excess mortality was identified. The estimated excess mortality in Korea was -29,112 (95% confidence interval, -29,832 to -28,391), corresponding to -55 per 100,000, and the ratio of observed deaths to expected deaths was 0.91. Negative excess mortality was observed except for females in the 0-14 age group. Male Medical Aid beneficiaries showed positive excess mortality, while non-disabled and disabled groups showed similar negative values. When the standardized mortality ratio was calculated for the top 10 causes of death, deaths from Alzheimer’s disease and septicemia increased, whereas those from diabetes mellitus and cerebrovascular disease decreased. The decrease in mortality was primarily concentrated in older adults, while the mortality of young females increased due to increased intentional self-harm.

CONCLUSIONS

This study adds essential evidence regarding the overall performance of Korea. The observed inequalities according to various socioeconomic variables indicate that the results of strict measures to control coronavirus disease 2019 were not distributed equitably. Efforts should be made to properly evaluate the current and future problems related to the pandemic.

Summary

Citations

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Excess mortality during and after the COVID-19 emergency in Japan: a two-stage interrupted time-series design
Ganan Devanathan, Paul LC Chua, Shuhei Nomura, Chris Fook Sheng Ng, Nasif Hossain, Akifumi Eguchi, Masahiro Hashizume
BMJ Public Health.2025; 3(1): e002357. CrossRef
The impact of a medical residents' walkout on mortality rates in South Korea, 2024
Jin-Hwan Kim, Saerom Kim
Health Policy.2025; 159: 105375. CrossRef
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Jiwoo Ha, Chang‐yup Kim
Sociology of Health & Illness.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
The political effect of medical dominance in South Korea’s COVID-19 response
Seohwa Park, Jungmin Seo
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The Predestined Failure of the Market Mechanism in Ensuring Health for all in Times of a Pandemic: The Case of the Republic of Korea
Jin-Hwan Kim
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Can resident registration expiration statistics due to death be used for near-real-time mortality tracking? A validation study using 2023 data from Korea
Jin-Hwan Kim
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Daseul Moon, Jeangeun Jeon, Jieun Park, Min-Hyeok Choi, Myoung-Hee Kim, Hongjo Choi
Health Research Policy and Systems.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Excess Deaths in Korea During the COVID-19 Pandemic: 2020-2022
So-Jin Im, Ji-Yeon Shin, Duk-Hee Lee
Journal of Preventive Medicine and Public Health.2024; 57(5): 480. CrossRef
Did the socioeconomic inequalities in avoidable and unavoidable mortality worsen during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in Korea?
Rora Oh, Myoung-Hee Kim, Juyeon Lee, Rangkyoung Ha, Jungwook Kim
Epidemiology and Health.2023; 45: e2023072. CrossRef

Awareness of and practice toward cancer prevention recommendations: results of the Korean National Cancer Prevention Awareness and Practice Survey in 2021: Jin-Kyoung Oh, Eunjung Park, Byungmi Kim, Yoon-Jung Choi, E Hwa Yun, Min Kyung Lim, Jeong-Soo Im, Eun Young Park; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022068. Published online August 26, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022068

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study reports data regarding the awareness and practice of cancer prevention among Koreans in 2021 and behavioral changes during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

METHODS

We collected Cancer Prevention Awareness and Practice Survey data through face-to-face interview surveys using a structured questionnaire completed by 4,000 randomly selected men and women aged between 20 years and 74 years in 17 provinces. We examined the awareness and practice of 10 cancer prevention recommendations and evaluated their associations with potential risk factors through multiple logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, gender, residence, marital status, education, and income.

RESULTS

Eighty percent of participants knew that cancer is preventable, while 45% practiced cancer prevention. Cancer prevention practice tended to be more common among older participants (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.39 per 10-year increment; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.29 to 1.49) and less common among rural inhabitants (aOR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.51 to 0.86) than among urban residents and among single people (aOR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.45 to 0.66) than among married people. Practices were the highest for avoiding burned or charred foods (87.6%) and lowest for vaccination against human papillomavirus (14.5%). Refusal to follow recommendations was most common for avoiding alcohol consumption (7.9%). The most difficult recommendations to follow were (1) regular exercise (57.7%); (2) maintaining a healthy body weight (46.1%); and (3) avoiding alcohol (40.1%). The most significant COVID-19-related changes were less exercise (32.5%) and increased body weight (25.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

The awareness of cancer prevention was high, but the practice was low. Recommendations targeting awareness and practice need to be further promoted.

Summary

Korean summary
2021년 국민 암예방 인식 및 실천행태 조사에 따르면, 국민의 80%는 암이 예방 가능하다는 사실을 알고 있으나, 45%만이 암예방을 위한 건강생활을 실천하고 있음. 암예방수칙 중 가장 지키기 어려운 항목으로는 ‘운동하기’(57.7%)를 꼽았고, 그 다음으로 ‘건강체중 유지하기’(46.1%)와 ‘소량음주도 피하기’(40.1%)순으로 나타났음. 코로나19 유행으로 인한 가장 흔한 변화는 운동 감소(32.5%)와 체중 증가(25.6%)로 나타났음.

Key Message
According to the data collected from the Cancer Prevention Awareness and Practice Survey in 2021, 80% of participants knew that cancer is preventable, while 45% practiced cancer prevention. The most difficult recommendations to follow were (1) regular exercise (57.7%); (2) maintaining a healthy body weight (46.1%); and (3) avoiding alcohol (40.1%). The most significant COVID-19-related changes were less exercise (32.5%) and increased body weight (25.6%).

Citations

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A comparative study of health behaviors in adult male cancer survivors and the general male population in Korea: from the Korea national health and nutrition examination survey VII-VIII (2016–2021)
Hyein Jung, Yoonjoo Choi, Byungmi Kim
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Gender differences in awareness and practices of cancer prevention recommendations in Korea: a cross-sectional survey
Yoonjoo Choi, Naeun Kim, Jin-Kyoung Oh, Yoon-Jung Choi, Bohyun Park, Byungmi Kim
Epidemiology and Health.2025; 47: e2025003. CrossRef
Longitudinal assessment of smoking‐related knowledge, attitude, and practice for cancer prevention: an analysis of data from the Korean National Cancer Prevention Awareness and Practice Survey
Jeoung A Kwon, Naeun Kim, Jin-Kyoung Oh, Bohyun Park, Yoon-Jung Choi, Yoonjoo Choi, Byungmi Kim
BMC Public Health.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Awareness and Practice of Global Cancer Prevention Dietary Guidelines among Koreans
Ahyoung Yun, Yoonjoo Choi, Hyein Jung, Byungmi Kim
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Sunhee Park, Jeoung A Kwon, Byungmi Kim, Naeun Kim, Yejin Ha, Mark Parascandola, YoonJoo Choi
Tobacco Use Insights.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
The Korean National Codes Against Cancer: background of their establishment and the revision process
Yoonjoo Choi, Jin-Kyoung Oh, Ayoung Byeon, Byungmi Kim
Epidemiology and Health.2025; 47: e2025027. CrossRef
Risk Factors of Gastric Cancer and Lifestyle Modification for Prevention
Kwang-Pil Ko
Journal of Gastric Cancer.2024; 24(1): 99. CrossRef
Factors Affecting Adherence to National Colorectal Cancer Screening: A 12-Year Longitudinal Study Using Multi-Institutional Pooled Data in Korea
Dae Sung Kim, Jeeyoung Hong, Kihyun Ryu, Sang Hyuk Lee, Hwanhyi Cho, Jehyeong Yu, Jieun Lee, Jong-Yeup Kim
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Imposing stragies for health promotion fund for alcohol
Kwang Wook Koh, Hye Sook Kim, Seong Hyun Koh
Korean Journal of Health Education and Promotion.2023; 40(4): 45. CrossRef
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Seunghee Jun, Hyunjin Park, Ui-Jeong Kim, Eun Jeong Choi, Hye Ah Lee, Bomi Park, Soon Young Lee, Sun Ha Jee, Hyesook Park
Epidemiology and Health.2023; 45: e2023092. CrossRef

COVID-19: Epidemiologic Investigation

Analysis of the on-ship transmission of the COVID-19 mass outbreak on the Republic of Korea Navy amphibious warfare ship: Soo Hyeon Cho, Young-Man Kim, Gyeongyong Seong, Sunkyun Park, Seoncheol Park, Sang-Eun Lee, Young Joon Park; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022065. Published online August 11, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022065

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This investigation was conducted to determine the size and pattern, source, and transmission route of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak on the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) amphibious warfare ship.

METHODS

We investigated the characteristics of all crew members and tracked the medical records of the confirmed cases. Fourteen essential ship operation personnel were interviewed. The study design was a retrospective cohort study, and the incidence rate ratio was through a statistical program.

RESULTS

The COVID-19 incidence on the ROKN amphibious warfare ship was 44.7% (38/85). It was estimated that the main propagation route started from the 1st floor worker, which spread to the same floor, and then to other floors. In the case of the working area, the incidence rate of crew members below the 1st floor without ventilation was higher than those on the 2nd or higher floors with natural ventilation.

CONCLUSIONS

This case is the first case of a COVID-19 outbreak on the ROKN amphibious warfare ship, and it is estimated that the incidence rate is high because of the closed and dense environment. To prevent the spread of various respiratory diseases including COVID-19, unified mitigation such as vaccination, observing personal quarantine rules, periodic ventilation, preemptive testing, and blocking transmission through prompt contact management is necessary.

Summary

Korean summary
본 조사는 국내 첫 해군 상륙함 내 코로나19 집단발생의 규모 및 양상, 감염원과 전파경로를 규명하기 위해 수행되었다. 해군 상륙함에서의 발생률은 44.7%였으며 자연 환기가 가능한 2층 이상 근무자에 비해 환기가 불가능한 1층 이하 근무자의 발생률이 높았고 이는 통계적으로 유의했다. 밀폐된 환경에서 밀접한 생활을 하는 해군 상륙함의 특성을 고려하여 개인방역수칙 준수, 주기적 환기, 선제적 검사, 신속한 접촉자 관리 등을 통한 전파 차단이 필요할 것으로 판단된다.

Key Message
This investigation was conducted to determine the size and pattern of the outbreak of the COVID-19 infection, the source of infection and the transmission route on the ROK Navy Amphibious Warfare ship. The incidence on ROKN Amphibious Warfare ship was 44.7% (38/85) and the incidence rate of crew members below the first floor without ventilation was higher than those on the second floor or higher with natural ventilation. To prevent various respiratory diseases including COVID-19, unified mitigation such as vaccination, observing personal quarantine rules, periodic ventilation, preemptive testing, and blocking transmission through prompt contact management is necessary.

Citations

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Indoor Air Quality and COVID-19: A Scoping Review
Axelle Braggion, Adeline Dugerdil, Olwen Wilson, Francesca Hovagemyan, Antoine Flahault
Public Health Reviews.2024;[Epub] CrossRef

COVID-19: Original Article

Physical and mental health characteristics related to trust in and intention to receive COVID-19 vaccination: results from a Korean community-based longitudinal study: Ye Jin Jeon, Youngrong Lee, Ji Su Yang, Young Su Park, Sun Jae Jung; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022064. Published online August 3, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022064

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The aim of this study was to explore factors affecting attitudes toward coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination, including socio-demographic characteristics and mental health status during the pandemic.

METHODS

This study analyzed responses from 1,768 participants who were originally included in a community cohort study and responded to 3 online surveys related to COVID-19 (March 2020 to March 2021). The k-means method was used to cluster trust in and intention to receive COVID-19 vaccination. Baseline (2013-2018) socio-demographic characteristics, physical health status, and depressive symptoms were analyzed as exposure variables, and current mental health status was included in the analyses.

RESULTS

Almost half of all participants were classified into the moderate trust and high intention cluster (n=838, 47.4%); those with high trust and high intention accounted only for 16.9%. They tended to be older, had high-income levels, and engaged in regular physical activity at baseline (p<0.05), and their sleep quality and psychological resilience were relatively high compared to other groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that more efforts are required to enhance the perceived need for and trust in COVID-19 vaccination.

Summary

Korean summary
•본 연구는 코로나19 관련 온라인, 모바일 설문조사에 응답한 1,768명을 대상으로 코로나19 유행 동안의 정신건강 상태와 백신 접종에 대한 태도 (백신에 대한 믿음, 백신에 대한 접종 의사) 사이의 관련성을 파악하고자 하였다. •연구결과 우울, 불안, 외로움, 회복탄력성 등과 같은 정신건강 상태가 나쁜 사람은 백신에 대한 접종 의사가 높을 오즈가 그렇지 않은 사람에 비해 높았으며, 이는 통계적으로 유의하였다.

Key Message
In this community-based study including 1,768 participants who responded online survey related to COVID-19, we investigate the relationship between mental health during the pandemic and attitude toward COVID-19 vaccine (trust and intention). Each of the mental symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and loneliness, was significantly associated with higher intention to COVID-19 vaccine. Our results suggest that more efforts are required to enhance the perceived need for and trust in COVID-19 vaccination.

Citations

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Cohort profile: Cardiovascular Metabolic Etiological Research Center COVID-19 Mental Health Survey (CC-MHS)
Sun Jae Jung, Dongkyu Lee, Ji Su Yang, Sunghyuk Kang, Hyejin Kim, Jeong Hyun Ahn, Yunseong Heo, Jieun Noh, Changhyun Kim, Hyeon Chang Kim
Epidemiology and Health.2025; 47: e2025033. CrossRef

COVID-19: Original Article

Maternal vaccine hesitancy towards COVID-19 immunisation of children in Qatar: a population-based cross-sectional study: Shuja Reagu, Suruchi Mohan, Johnny Awwad, Majid Alabdulla; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022056. Published online July 6, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022056

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Abstract PDF

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study was conducted in Qatar to explore beliefs and attitudes among mothers towards coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination for their children and to understand major factors influencing vaccine hesitancy among these mothers.

METHODS

A population-based, online cross-sectional survey was conducted between 15 October and 15 November 2020. A composite questionnaire incorporating a validated vaccine hesitancy tool was developed and administered in both English and Arabic. Approval was obtained from the local ethics committee. Participation was voluntary and offered to all adult residents of Qatar through an online link available on social media platforms and local news portals. Only adult respondents who self-identified as mothers were included in the present study. No personal identifying data were collected.

RESULTS

Of the mothers surveyed, 29.4% exhibited COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy regarding their children. This exceeded these mothers’ rate of personal vaccine hesitancy (27.5%). Hesitancy rates varied significantly with ethnicity, with the highest among Qatari mothers (51.3%). Intention to vaccinate children did not differ significantly between mothers who accepted the vaccine for themselves and those who did not. Overall, the main reported concerns related to long-term vaccine safety. To a significant extent, mothers relied most on self-directed research on vaccine safety for decision-making.

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of maternal COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy exceeded both those mothers’ rate of personal vaccine hesitancy and the hesitancy rate in the general population. The intention to vaccinate children was independent of maternal vaccination history. Factors influencing maternal vaccine hesitancy differ from those influencing personal hesitancy and require an informed public health response.

Summary

Citations

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Prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Brazil: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Daniele Melo Sardinha, Marcos Jessé Abrahão Silva, Sebastião Kauã de Sousa Bispo, Alex Patrick Oliveira da Silva, Karla Valéria Batista Lima, Ilma Pastana Ferreira, Luana Nepomuceno Gondim Costa Lima
Frontiers in Public Health.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
COVID-19 mothers’ mother–baby bonding, feeding practices, postnatal care experiences in Qatar: A mixed-methods approach
Laura Carolina Moya Falcon, John Paul Ben Tabar Silang, Safa El-Arwa Hadid, Khadije Bargaoui, Mariama Lilei Kassay, Jussara Da Silva Brito, Nesiya Hassan, Albara Mohammad Ali Alomari, Teresa Sandra Erice Rivero, Kalpana Singh
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Vaccines.2023; 11(5): 953. CrossRef

COVID-19: Original Article

The impact of COVID-19 on screening for colorectal, gastric, breast, and cervical cancer in Korea: Hyeree Park, Seung Hee Seo, Jong Heon Park, Shin Hye Yoo, Bhumsuk Keam, Aesun Shin; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022053. Published online June 21, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022053

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected the utilization of healthcare services, including participation in cancer screening programs. We compared cancer screening participation rates for colorectal, gastric, breast, and cervical cancers among participants in the National Cancer Screening Program (NCSP) in 2019 and 2020 to address the potential distraction effect of COVID-19 on cancer screening.

METHODS

Data from the NCSP for 4 cancer types (stomach, colorectal, breast, and cervical) in 2019 and 2020 were used to calculate cancer screening participation rates by calendar month, gender, age group, and geographical region. Monthly participation rates were analyzed per 1,000 eligible individuals.

RESULTS

The screening participation rate decreased in 2020 compared to 2019 for all 4 cancers: colorectal (40.5 vs. 35.3%), gastric (61.9 vs. 54.6%), breast (63.8 vs. 55.8%), and cervical (57.8 vs. 52.2%) cancers. Following 2 major COVID-19 waves in March and December 2020, the participation rates in the 4 types of cancer screening dropped compared with those in 2019. The highest decline was observed in the elderly population aged 80 years and older (percentage change: -21% for colorectal cancer; -20% for gastric cancer; -26% for breast cancer; -20% for cervical cancer).

CONCLUSIONS

After the 2 major COVID-19 waves, the screening participation rate for 4 types of cancer declined compared with 2019. Further studies are needed to identify the indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer patients, such as delayed diagnoses of cancer or excess cancer deaths.

Summary

Korean summary
본 연구는 코로나 대유행 기간 전과 후 대장암, 위암, 유방암, 자궁경부암 검진 수검률 차이를 비교하고자 하였다. 첫 코로나 확진자가 발생한 2020년을 코로나 대유행 기간, 전년도 기간인 2019년을 코로나 대유행 전 기간으로 설정하며 국민건강보험공단에서 집계된 전수자료를 이용하여 암 검진 대상자 수와 수검자 수를 비교 분석하였다. 4개 암종 모두에서 2019년도와 비교하여 2020년도에 전국적으로 수검률이 감소하는 경향이 있었으며, 1차 대유행이 있었던 3월과 3차 대유행 시기인 12월에 2019년도 동기간과 비교하여 수검률이 크게 감소하였고, 80대 이상 노인 인구에서 감소폭이 다른 연령대와 비교하여 크게 나타났다.

Key Message
We found decline of the colorectal, gastric, breast and cervical cancer screening participation rates in 2020 following the two major COVID-19 waves, compared with those of 2019, and the highest decline was observed in the elderly population aged 80 years and older.

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COVID-19: Original Article

Changes in cancer screening before and during COVID‐19: findings from the Korean National Cancer Screening Survey 2019 and 2020: Thao Thi Kim Trinh, Yun Yeong Lee, Mina Suh, Jae Kwan Jun, Kui Son Choi; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022051. Published online May 30, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022051

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has negatively affected every aspect of medical care. However, information regarding the impact of the pandemic on cancer screening is lacking. This study aimed to explore cancer screening changes by geographic region before and during the pandemic in Korea.

METHODS

Korean National Cancer Screening Survey data for 2019 and 2020 were used. Changes in the screening rate before and during the COVID-19 pandemic were calculated by subtracting the rate in 2020 from the rate in 2019. Multivariate logistic regression analyses examined the differences in screening rates at the national and 16 provincial levels before and after the COVID-19 outbreak.

RESULTS

The 1-year screening rates for the four types of cancer decreased during the pandemic (stomach cancer: -5.1, colorectal cancer: -3.8, breast cancer: -2.5, cervical cancer: -1.5%p). In metropolitan areas, the odds of undergoing screening tests during the pandemic were significantly lower than before the pandemic for stomach (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.66; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.56 to 0.76), colorectal (aOR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.50 to 0.79), and breast cancers (aOR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.60 to 0.94). Furthermore, the likelihood of undergoing stomach cancer screening during the pandemic was significantly lower than before the pandemic in non-metropolitan urban areas (aOR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.70 to 0.94), while it was higher in rural areas (aOR, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.10 to 2.16).

CONCLUSIONS

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the cancer screening rate has decreased significantly, especially in large cities. Public health efforts are required to improve cancer screening rates.

Summary

Korean summary
• 코로나 대유행 이전과 이후의 최근 1년간 암검진 수검률을 비교한 결과, 위암 (5% 포인트), 대장암 (3.8% 포인트), 유방암 (2.5% 포인트), 자궁경부암 (1.5% 포인트) 수검률이 통계적으로 유의하게 감소하였음 • 특히 위암, 대장암, 유방암의 경우 대도시 지역에서의 수검률이 현저하게 감소하였음

Key Message
The 1-year screening rates for stomach, colorectal, breast, and cervical cancer decreased significantly during the pandemic in Korea, especially in large cities.

Citations

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Mining Google Trends data for nowcasting and forecasting colorectal cancer (CRC) prevalence
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COVID-19: Original Article

The impact of COVID-19 on cancer care in a tertiary hospital in Korea: possible collateral damage to emergency care: Shin Hye Yoo, Jin-Ah Sim, Jeongmi Shin, Bhumsuk Keam, Jun-Bean Park, Aesun Shin; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022044. Published online May 1, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022044

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
We investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer care in a tertiary hospital in Korea without specific lockdown measures.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort of cancer patients from one of the largest tertiary hospitals in Korea was used to compare healthcare utilization in different settings (outpatient cancer clinic, the emergency department [ED], and admissions to the hematology/oncology ward) between January 1 and December 31, 2020 and the same time period in 2019. The percent changes in healthcare utilization between the 2 periods were calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 448,833 cases from the outpatient cohort, 26,781 cases from the ED cohort, and 14,513 cases from the admission cohort were reviewed for 2019 and 2020. The total number of ED visit cases significantly decreased from 2019 to 2020 by 18.04%, whereas the proportion of cancer patients remained stable. The reduction in ED visits was more prominent in patients with symptoms suspicious for COVID-19, high-acuity cases, and those who lived in non-capital city areas. There were no significant changes in the number of total visits, new cases in the outpatient clinic, or the total number of hospitalizations between the 2 periods.

CONCLUSIONS

During the pandemic, the number of ED visits significantly decreased, while the use of the outpatient clinic and hospitalizations were not affected. Cancer patients’ ED visits decreased after the COVID-19 outbreak, suggesting the potential for collateral damage outside the hospital if patients cannot reach the ED in a timely manner.

Summary

Korean summary
코로나19 이전인 2019년에 비해 코로나19 유행 첫 해인 2020년에 암환자의 1개 상급종합병원 응급실 방문이 유의하게 감소하였고, 특히 코로나19 의심 증상이 있거나, 중증도가 높거나, 비수도권 지역에 거주하는 환자에서 응급실 방문의 감소가 뚜렷하였다. 코로나19 이전과 코로나19 유행 시 외래 방문 암환자의 수, 신환 수는 큰 차이가 없었고, 입원한 암환자의 수 역시 유의한 차이가 없었다. 코로나19 대유행 시 암환자의 응급실 방문 감소는 병원 밖에서 적시에 응급실에 방문하지 못하는 부수적 피해의 가능성을 시사하여, 이에 대한 관심이 필요하다.

Key Message
The study identified a significant decrease in the emergency department visits of the cancer patients at a tertiary hospital in Korea during the COVID-19 pandemic. There were no significant changes in the number of total visits, new cases in the outpatient clinic, or the total number of hospitalizations between pre-COVID-19 and during-COVID-19 periods.

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COVID-19: Special Article

Smoking, drinking, and physical activity among Korean adults before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a special report of the 2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: Sunhye Choi, Jinwook Bahk, Suyeon Park, Kyungwon Oh, Kyunghee Jung-Choi; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022043. Published online April 25, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022043

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study aimed to describe trends in health behaviours between 2011 and 2020 and compare the changes in these behaviours between the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic and previous periods according to socio-demographic variables.

METHODS

This study used data from the 2011 to 2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Current cigarette smoking, high-risk drinking, and inadequate physical activity levels were used as health behaviour indicators. The age-standardized prevalence, differences in prevalence between the periods, and the annual percentage change (APC) were calculated.

RESULTS

Current cigarette smoking showed a decreasing trend (APC, -2.6), high-risk drinking remained unchanged, and inadequate physical activity levels increased (APC, 3.5) during 2011-2020. There were significant differences in high-risk drinking (3.1%p; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.3 to 5.9) and inadequate physical activity levels (4.3%p; 95% CI, 0.4 to 8.1) between 2019 and 2020 in men. Among men, increased high-risk drinking was found in those aged 40-49 years, non-single households, urban residents, and the middle and highest income groups between 2019 and 2020. The low educational group and manual workers among men aged 30-59 years also showed an increased proportion of high-risk drinking. Inadequate physical activity levels also increased among men between 2019 and 2020 in those aged 30-39 years, non-single households, urban residents, and the upper-middle-income group.

CONCLUSIONS

In the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, Korean men’s high-risk drinking and inadequate physical activity levels increased. In addition to social efforts to reduce the spread of infectious diseases, active measures to positively change health behaviour are needed.

Summary

Korean summary
코로나 대유행 첫 해인 2020년, 한국 남성에서 고위험음주와 부적절한 신체 활동 수준이 증가하였다. 감염성 질환 대유행 시기, 확산을 차단하기 위한 사회적 노력과 더불어 건강행태에 부정적인 여파가 미치지 않도록 적극적인 대책이 필요함을 시사한다.

Key Message
In the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, Korean men’s high-risk drinking and inadequate physical activity levels increased. Despite Korea's positive performance in various indicators during the COVID-19 pandemic, the socioeconomic and cultural effects of COVID-19 have affected people's health behaviour. In addition to social efforts to reduce the spread of infectious diseases, active measures to positively change health behaviour are needed.

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COVID-19: Special Article

Mental health of Korean adults before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a special report of the 2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: Hyunsuk Jeong, Suyeon Park, Jihee Kim, Kyungwon Oh, Hyeon Woo Yim; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022042. Published online April 25, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022042

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the associated social distancing, limited freedom, and fear of an uncertain future are expected to have substantial mental health effects. We investigated mental health responses in the community during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in Korea.

METHODS

We used 2016-2019 and 2020 data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) to assess pre-pandemic and pandemic mental health status, respectively, in terms of perceived severe stress, depression, and suicidal plans. All analyses were gender-stratified. Pre-specified subgroup analyses were performed according to age, employment status, and household income.

RESULTS

The percentage of Korean adults with suicidal plans increased significantly from 1.3%p (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1 to 1.5) in 2016-2019 to 1.8%p (95% CI, 1.4 to 2.1) in 2020. Individuals in their 20s and 40s showed a marked increase in suicidal plans (1.2%p; 95% CI, 0.0 to 2.3 and 0.9%p; 95% CI, 0.0 to 1.8, respectively). In men, depression and perceived severe stress increased significantly from pre-COVID-19 to 2020. There was a 2.4%p (95% CI, 0.8 to 4.0) increase in depression among standard workers and a 2.9%p increase in depression in individuals in the second-highest quintile of household income from 2016 and 2018 to 2020.

CONCLUSIONS

As COVID-19 continued, mental health issues such as suicidal plans, depression, and severe stress increased significantly in young men and people in the second-highest quintile of household income. Proactive community mental health efforts are needed to prevent increases in the suicide rate resulting from prolonged exposure to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Summary

Korean summary
코로나19 이전에 비해 코로나19 유행 첫 해 동안에 전체 인구에서 자살 계획 유병율이 유의하게 증가하였고 특히 20대-40대에서 증가 비율이 높았다. PHQ-9으로 측정한 우울증 유병율은 전체 남성에서 증가하였고 특히 30대 남성에서 증가 비율이 높았다. 코로나19 영향으로 자살 계획과 우울증과 같은 정신 건강 문제가 젊은 성인에서 크게 증가하였기 때문에 이러한 정신건강 문제가 자살률 증가로 이어지는 것을 방지하기 위해 국가적 차원의 체계적인 정책과 적극적인 지역사회 정신건강 중재가 필요하다.

Key Message
There was a significant increase in the prevalence of suicidal plan in the overall population during the first year of COVID-19 pandemic compared to pre-COVID-19. In particular, suicide plans increased among those in their 20s and 40s. The prevalence of PHQ-9 detected depression increased in all men, especially among men in their 30s. As mental health problems such as suicide planning and depression have significantly increased among young adults due to the impact of COVID-19, systematic policies at the national level and active community mental health interventions are needed to prevent these mental health problems from leading to an increase in suicide rates.

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COVID-19: Special Article

Obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hypercholesterolemia in Korean adults before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a special report of the 2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: Ga Bin Lee, Yoonjung Kim, Suyeon Park, Hyeon Chang Kim, Kyungwon Oh; Epidemiol Health. 2022;44:e2022041. Published online April 25, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4178/epih.e2022041

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Abstract Summary PDF Supplementary Material

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
We investigated trends in obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and hypercholesterolemia before and during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in the Korean adult population.

METHODS

Data from 60,098 participants in the Korea National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey between 2011 and 2020 aged ≥19 were used. The age-standardized prevalence and annual percent changes (APCs) were calculated for obesity (body mass index ≥25 kg/m2), hypertension (systolic/diastolic blood pressure ≥140/90 mmHg or under treatment), diabetes (hemoglobin A1c ≥6.5%, fasting glucose ≥126 mg/dL, physician diagnosis, or under treatment), and hypercholesterolemia (total cholesterol ≥240 mg/dL or under treatment).

RESULTS

Over the past decade (2011-2020), the age-standardized APCs (95% confidence intervals) for obesity, hypertension, diabetes and hypercholesterolemia were 3.0% (2.1 to 3.8), 0.1% (-1.3 to 1.5), 1.5% (-1.0 to 4.0) and 8.0% (5.7 to 10.3), respectively, in men; and -0.2% (-1.5 to 1.2), -0.5% (-1.9 to 0.9), -0.1% (-2.3 to 2.2) and 5.9% (3.9 to 8.0), respectively, in women. In 2020 compared to the previous 3 years (2017-2019), obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and hypercholesterolemia increased in men (6.0, 1.8, 1.9, and 2.8%p, respectively), but an increase was not apparent in women (2.5, -1.1, 0.8, and 0.7%p, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

An increase in major chronic diseases was observed in Korean adults, especially men, during the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to reduce the burden of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases in the future, effective intervention strategies need to be developed according to the characteristics of the target groups.

Summary

Korean summary
한국인의 비만, 고혈압, 당뇨 및 고지혈증 유병률은 지난 10년간 전반적으로 증가하는 경향을 보였다. 특히, 코로나 19가 유행한 2020년에 남성의 주요 만성질환 유병률은 지난 3년 평균치와 비교하였을 때 모두 유의하게 증가하였다. 반면, 여성에서 만성질환 유병률의 뚜렷한 증가는 관찰되지 않았다.

Key Message
During COVID-19 pandemic, the overall increase in major chronic diseases was observed in Korean adults, and this trend was prominent in men. Accordingly, target-specific intervention strategies need to be developed to reduce the burden of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases in the future.

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