BackgroundHypertension is the leading cardiovascular risk factor globally as well as in Malaysia. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence, awareness, treatment, control and the socio demographic determinants of hypertension among Malaysian adults.MethodThe analytic sample consisted of 11,288 adults aged ≥ 30 years recruited at baseline in 2007–2011 from the REDISCOVER Study which is an ongoing, prospective cohort study involving 18 urban and 22 rural communities in Malaysia. Socio-demographics, anti-hypertensive treatment details and an average of at least two blood pressure measurements were obtained.ResultsThe age-adjusted prevalence was 42.0 % (CI: 40.9–43.2) and was higher in men [43.5 % (CI: 41.2–45.0)] than women [41.0 % (CI: 39.8–42.3)]. Participants from rural areas (APR: 1.12, CI: 1.04–1.20); aged at least 40–49 years (APR: 1.86, CI: 1.62–2.14); who were overweight (APR: 1.24, CI: 1.15–1.34) and obese (APR: 1.54, CI: 1.43–1.6) were more likely to have hypertension. The Indigenous ethnic group was less likely to be aware (APR: 0.81, CI: 0.69–0.92) and to be on treatment (APR: 0.66, CI: 0.55–0.79). Those in rural areas were less likely to have their hypertension controlled (APR: 0.61, CI: 0.49–0.75). On the other hand, control was more likely in females (APR: 1.25, CI: 1.01–1.54) and Indigenous group (APR: 1.64, CI: 1.19–2.25).ConclusionHypertension is common in the Malaysian adults. The control of hypertension has increased over the years but is still quite low. Public health measures, as well as individual interventions in primary care are crucial to reduce their risk of developing complications.

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Background: There are conflicting reports about the effect of psychological stress upon menstruation. We studied menstrual patterns and stress in 254 undergraduate medical students. Method: All girls of years one and two were included. The students maintained menstrual records over six months. DASS questionnaires measured stress. Salivary cortisol levels were also measured. Results: In year 1 and 2 students, persisting normal cycles were 39.4% and 36.5%; normal becoming abnormal were 28.8% and 23.1%; abnormal becoming normal were 19.2% and 17.3%; persisting abnormal were 12.5% and 23.1% . Students with moderate to severe stress (20% and 21%) had less stress at six months (13% and 15%) Comment: Most students have normal menstrual patterns, and no stress. Stress if present tends to decrease with time. There is no clear association between psychological stress and menstrual abnormality.

The structure and functions of endothelial cells after space mission were studied by electron and laser confocal microscopy, image analysis, and MTT test. The endothelial cells changed significantly (proliferative activity, size, contours, shape, distribution of mitochondria and microtubules) in comparison with controls on the Earth. These changes indicated injuries in the cytoskeleton and impairment of the barrier function of the cells, which presumably contributed to the development of endothelial dysfunction.

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