OBJECTIVES: To clarify the prevalence and characteristics of pain associated with sarcopenia and to verify the usefulness of evaluation of pain for sarcopenia. METHODS: In total, 759 community-dwelling people (aged 65–79 years) with or without sarcopenia and lower limb pain were classified into 4 groups (NSp, nonsarcopenia; NSpP, nonsarcopenia with pain; Sp, sarcopenia; and SpP, sarcopenia with pain). Body composition, motor function, history of fractures since age 50 years, and number of falls in the past 1 year were compared between the groups. RESULTS: Participant proportions by group were: NSp, 53.9%; NSpP, 42.8%; Sp, 1.3%; and SpP, 2.0%. Participants with lower limb pain showed low single leg standing, walking speed, and 2-step value scores and high 25-question Geriatric Locomotive Functional Scale (GLFS-25) score after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, and presence of sarcopenia. The SpP group showed lower functional reach test and higher GLFS-25 scores than the Sp group. Regarding the history of fractures since 50 years of age and falls in past 1 year, a high retention rate of fracture was noted in the NSpP group. They also experienced significantly more falls in the past 1 year than those in the NSp group. The SpP group noted more falls and fractures although it was insignificant. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that participants with lower limb pain showed declining motor function and a high risk for falls and fractures. Sarcopenia could escalate this risk. Therefore, evaluating patients for both pain and sarcopenia may be useful for risk assessment and treatment.
Accidental Falls ; Aged ; Body Composition ; Body Mass Index ; Humans ; Leg ; Lower Extremity ; Prevalence ; Risk Assessment ; Sarcopenia ; Walking

Introduction  In December 2017, a workshop was held for foreign and Japanese residents to learn about the prevention of health problems in the time of disaster.   This paper presents the results of a questionnaire survey conducted at the workshop, focusing on a disaster-preparedness education and support for foreigners living in Japan. Methods  The workshop participants were asked about their knowledge of health problems in the time of disasters and their experiences with health counseling. Results  Data were obtained from 25 of the 48 workshop participants. Almost half of the respondents indicated that they understood the potential mental and physical health problems in the time of disaster. Foreign participants were able to grasp the medical system at the evacuation shelters in Japan, and were able to learn about diseases, especially with regards to being aware of their own health condition. Regarding health maintenance at evacuation shelters, participants indicated their need for physical and mental health support, as well as more information and sharing. Conclusions  Foreign participants emphasized their need for support regarding physical and mental aspects. This was informed by their experiences of living in an evacuation shelter and the workshop lecture, which facilitated a greater understanding of how everyday life would be affected after the disaster. The participants described challenges related to their own health, as well as language challenges in their experiences of health counseling. Since foreigners tend to hesitate when consulting others about language concerns, it is necessary to clarify the workings of support and medical care systems at evacuation shelters. In addition, frequently used medical terms and health guidance contents need to be presented in more than one language to lessen foreign residents’ anxiety during-the disaster.

Background: Consideration of cultural aspects is important in medical care. We explored regional differences in cancer and palliative care among Okinawa, Tohoku, and Tokyo metropolitan area. Methods: We conducted a questionnaire survey of physicians involved in cancer medicine from September to November 2020. A total of 11 items related to physician experiences were rated using a 5-point Likert-type scale. Results: Responses were received from 553 physicians (187 in Okinawa, 219 in Tohoku, 147 in the Tokyo metropolitan area). In Okinawa, “When patients die, it is important that all family members are present at the last moment,” “Patients/family members primarily consult the elders of the family about the medical treatments,” “Family members hope the patients die at home, because the soul will not return when they die at the hospital,” “Patients/family members get advice from religious advisors about the medical treatments,” and “Family members wish to take the patient home when he/she is about to die and to confirm death at home” were significantly more frequently observed. In Tohoku, “Patients wish to be hospitalized at a specific season” was significantly more frequently reported. In Tohoku and Okinawa, “Patients hide cancer from neighbors and relatives” and “Elderly patients do not want treatment, because they cover the living expenses and education expenses for their children and grandchildren.” were significantly more frequently experienced. Conclusion: There are regional differences in cancer and palliative care in Japan. Being sensitive to the culture of the region is needed.