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Lee K, Kronick R, Miconi D, Rousseau C. Moving Forward in Mental Health Care for Refugee, Asylum-Seeking, and Undocumented Children: Social Determinants, Phased Approach to Care, and Advocacy. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2024; 33:237-250. [PMID: 38395508 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2023.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Given the current political and climate crisis, the number of forcedly displaced individuals continues to rise, posing new challenges to host societies aiming to support and respond to the needs of those fleeing war or persecution. In this article, we turn our attention to current and historical sociopolitical contexts influencing the mental health of forcedly displaced children (ie, refugee, asylum-seeking, and undocumented) during their resettlement in high-income countries, proposing timely ways to respond to evolving needs and recommendations to redress ubiquitous structural inequities that act as barriers to education and care for the children, youth, and families seeking sanctuary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keven Lee
- Division of Social and Transcultural Psychiatry, McGill University, 1033 Pine Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Lady Davis Institute, 3755 Côte Ste-Catherine Road, Montreal, Quebec.
| | - Rachel Kronick
- Division of Social and Transcultural Psychiatry, McGill University, 1033 Pine Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Lady Davis Institute, 3755 Côte Ste-Catherine Road, Montreal, Quebec
| | - Diana Miconi
- Department of Educational Psychology and Adult Education, Université de Montréal, 90 Vincent D'Indy Avenue, Outremont, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Cécile Rousseau
- Division of Social and Transcultural Psychiatry, McGill University, 1033 Pine Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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152
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Marionneau V, Järvinen-Tassopoulos J. Individuals with a migratory background can offer valuable insight to improve the treatment and prevention of gambling harms. NORDIC STUDIES ON ALCOHOL AND DRUGS 2024; 41:226-234. [PMID: 38645970 PMCID: PMC11027849 DOI: 10.1177/14550725231212799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Migration is a risk factor for gambling-related harms. Little research has been conducted on gambling and gambling harms among migrant groups in Finland, but there are indications that gambling participation is high among migrants also in this context. Russian speakers constitute the largest migrant group in Finland. This study focuses on the experiences and views of Russian speakers in Finland on the Finnish gambling system and its relationship to gambling harms. The study is based on the results of qualitative data collected on gambling experiences among Russian-speaking residents of Finland. The data consist of an online survey directed at individuals who gamble (N = 26) and interviews conducted among family members of those gambling (N = 3). Russian speakers in Finland view gambling as highly normalised in the Finnish society. This normalisation reinforced by availability, accessibility, and state involvement. Russian speakers also have perspective on how to better prevent and treat gambling harms in Finland. Involving migrants with experience of different gambling systems can provide critical insight on established practices in gambling systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virve Marionneau
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Helsingin yliopisto, Helsinki, Finland
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153
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Bağcı ŞE, Erden Ş, Yengel B. Making sense of COVID-19: manifestations of health capital during the pandemic. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:933. [PMID: 38561712 PMCID: PMC10983716 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18451-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Grounded in Bourdieu's theory of human practice, this study aims to examine how individuals as social agents made sense of and acted upon their COVID-19 experiences. A recent conceptualization of health capital is utilized to explain the practices of patients in the pandemic, in relation to their biographical background. METHODS This is a qualitative research in which the data were collected by biographical narrative interviews through a theoretical sampling approach. Eighteen interviews with COVID-19 patients were conducted and 8 of them were analyzed by the Documentary Method. RESULTS The informants made sense of their illness experiences through their health capital, which is manifested in their self-perception of health, their attitudes towards the healthcare system, their conception of terms such as luck, their work status, and the gendered division of labour at home in the COVID-19 pandemic. All the manifestations are mediated by the social, cultural, and economic capital of the informants, and their habitual practices are based on their symbolic capital. CONCLUSION The study depicts how social agents' health capital manifested in the pandemic, relying on their symbolic capital, and shaping their practices. Further research across diverse contexts is needed to fully understand extra dimensions of health capital as a descriptor of the social determinants of health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ş Erhan Bağcı
- Department of Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, Çukurova University, Adana, Turkey.
- Medical Education, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Şengül Erden
- Department of Medical Education and Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Begüm Yengel
- Department of Foreign Languages, Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey
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154
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Fix RL. Racism and violence in policing: Perspectives from a juvenile prison. JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2024; 52:459-474. [PMID: 38356270 DOI: 10.1002/jcop.23104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Following recent events involving racism and violence in policing, the current study sought to understand factors associated with support for related social movements and worries about personal, family, and peer safety. Data were from 78 currently incarcerated young people (M = 16.5 years; 31% Black) and 20 juvenile prison staff (M = 40.3 years; 72% Black) via online surveys. A comparable proportion of young people (47.3%) and staff (47.4%) reported participating in the Black Lives Matter movement. Among young people, prior experiences with police were significantly associated with support for social movements and worries about safety concerning racism and violence in policing. Among staff, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and racial and ethnic identity were significantly associated with social movement support and worries about safety. Civic education and interventions to promote racial and ethnic identity may promote support for systemic change and buffer against worries about racism and violence in policing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Fix
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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155
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Christou-Ergos M, Wiley KE, Leask J. The experience of traumatic events, psychological distress, and social support: links to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and trends with age in a group of older Australians. BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:302. [PMID: 38556872 PMCID: PMC10983690 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-04902-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vaccination is important to reduce disease-associated morbidity and mortality in an ageing global population. While older adults are more likely than younger adults to accept vaccines, some remain hesitant. We sought to understand how traumatic events, psychological distress and social support contribute to older adults' intention to receive a COVID-19 vaccine and whether these experiences change with age. METHODS We analysed survey data collected as part of the Sax Institute's 45 and Up Study in a population of Australian adults aged 60 years and over. Data were derived from the COVID Insights study; a series of supplementary surveys about how participants experienced the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS Higher intention to receive a COVID-19 vaccine was associated with greater social support (adjusted odds ratio (aOR):1.08; 95%CI:1.06-1.11; p <.001) while lower intention was associated with personally experiencing a serious illness, injury or assault in the last 12 months (aOR:0.79; 95% CI:0.64-0.98; p =.03). Social support and the experience of traumatic events increased significantly with age, while psychological distress decreased. CONCLUSIONS There may be factors beyond disease-associated risks that play a role in vaccine acceptance with age. Older Australians on the younger end of the age spectrum may have specific needs to address their hesitancy that may be overlooked.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Christou-Ergos
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sydney, Room 135, RC Mills Building A26, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia.
| | - Kerrie E Wiley
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Julie Leask
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
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156
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ZEHNATI A, SIDI-YAKHLEF A. [Prevalence and determinants of continued breastfeeding beyond 6 months among Algerian women. Evidence for Multiple Indicators Cluster Surveys]. MEDECINE TROPICALE ET SANTE INTERNATIONALE 2024; 4:mtsi.v4i1.2024.499. [PMID: 38846119 PMCID: PMC11151907 DOI: 10.48327/mtsi.v4i1.2024.499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Background and rationale Breastfeeding is considered the best nutrition for infants and plays a significant role in a child's growth and development. In this regard, the World Health Organization (WHO) strongly recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life, as well as continued breastfeeding when safe and appropriate complementary foods are introduced, up to 2 years of age or beyond. Nonetheless, breastfeeding practices remain sub-optimal in many parts of the world. In this respect, many children have shown not to be breastfed up to 6 months of age or are not breastfed during their first hours of life or are weaned too early. This allows for the use of infant formula, which can be life threatening due to poor hygiene, storage conditions or inappropriate foods. Likewise, breastfeeding rates in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region are lower than the global average. In Algeria, the breastfeeding rate up to 6 months of age is among the lowest in the world according to previous Multiple Indicators Cluster Surveys (MICS) reports. In addition, by the end of the sixth month, the percentage of children exclusively breastfed is less than 3% and only 23% of children receive breast milk at 22-23 months. The median duration of breast-feeding is 12 weeks. However, the socio-demographic factors associated with this sub-optimal breastfeeding practice are not explored in these reports, as studies and research conducted in this context using other data are few and mostly conducted in limited geographical areas. Materials and methods This stands for a descriptive cross-sectional study of all children who were breastfed in the MICS database, carried out in 2019, 8 709 children, including 4 471 boys and 4 238 girls, registered in the database. To explore factors associated with the duration of breastfeeding, we only included weaned children to minimize bias related to children who were still breastfeeding. This allowed to analyze data from 3 761 children, including 1 930 boys (5.4%) and 1,831 girls (48.6%). Through using a logistic regression model, we could attain the assessment of the role of different socio-demographic, economic and geographical factors in the maintenance of breastfeeding beyond 6 months. Results The prevalence of breastfeeding is 81.1%; the rate of exclusive breastfeeding of children aged 0-6 months is 28.7%. The factors associated with breastfeeding beyond six months are area of residence, mother's occupational status and wealth quintile. In fact, rural area appears to be a factor favoring the continuation of breastfeeding beyond six months, compared with urban area (OR = 1.29; CI [1.032-1.369]). Mothers living in the Eastern Highlands geographic region appear to be 1.56 times more likely to maintain breastfeeding for more than six months compared to those living in the Southern region (OR = 1.56; CI [1.123 - 1.677]). Children of non-working mothers are almost 1.5 times more likely to be breastfed after 6 months than those of working mothers (OR = 1.489; CI [1.107 - 1.947]). Parents belonging to the "richest" wealth quintiles appear to increase the chance of continued breastfeeding after 6 months with a 1.24-fold increase compared to those belonging to the "poorest" quintile (OR = 1.24; CI [1.086 - 1.812]). Factors such as the child's gender, maternal education level, and functional difficulties do not appear to be determining factors for the continuation of breastfeeding after six months. Discussion and conclusion The prevalence and factors associated with the initiation and continuation of breastfeeding vary from one country to another. Notwithstanding the numerous studies to better comprehend mothers' breastfeeding behaviour and various initiatives for promotion thereof, many countries have low rates. In consequence, the downward trend in breastfeeding is directly linked to advances in the production and marketing of industrial milks, the lack of information and awareness among mothers and the lack of training of health professionals. In this respect, it is highly recommended to encourage behavioural changes, to improve communication about the duration of breastfeeding, to increase the use of postnatal counselling and training of paramedical staff according to the recommendations with support for mothers.This study is of great interest in developing countries like Algeria, in order to adopt preventive interventions, and to organise communication and pre- and post-natal counselling in the breastfeeding project. Clearly, this study should be enhanced with supplementary qualitative studies concerning the factors contributing to early discontinuation of breastfeeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahcène ZEHNATI
- Directeur de recherche au Centre de recherche en économie appliquée pour le Développement (CREAD), Algérie et chercheur associé au Laboratoire d’économie de Dijon (LEDi), France
| | - Adel SIDI-YAKHLEF
- Professeur au Département des sciences sociales, Faculté des sciences humaines et sociales, Université Abou-Bakr-Belkaid Tlemcen, Algérie
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157
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Jitsuk NC, Chadsuthi S, Modchang C. Vaccination strategies impact the probability of outbreak extinction: A case study of COVID-19 transmission. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28042. [PMID: 38524580 PMCID: PMC10958689 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Mass vaccination has proven to be an effective control measure for mitigating the transmission of infectious diseases. Throughout history, various vaccination strategies have been employed to control infections and terminate outbreaks. In this study, we utilized the transmission of COVID-19 as a case study and constructed a stochastic age-structured compartmental model to investigate the effectiveness of different vaccination strategies. Our analysis focused on estimating the outbreak extinction probability under different vaccination scenarios in both homogeneous and heterogeneous populations. Notably, we found that population heterogeneity can enhance the likelihood of outbreak extinction at varying levels of vaccine coverage. Prioritizing vaccinations for individuals with higher infection risk was found to maximize outbreak extinction probability and reduce overall infections, while allocating vaccines to those with higher mortality risk has been proven more effective in reducing deaths. Moreover, our study highlighted the significance of booster doses as the vaccine effectiveness wanes over time, showing that they can significantly enhance the extinction probability and mitigate disease transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natcha C. Jitsuk
- Biophysics Group, Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
- Center for Disease Modeling, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Sudarat Chadsuthi
- Center for Disease Modeling, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
- Department of Physics, Research Center for Academic Excellence in Applied Physics, Faculty of Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand
| | - Charin Modchang
- Biophysics Group, Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
- Center for Disease Modeling, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
- Centre of Excellence in Mathematics, MHESI, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
- Thailand Center of Excellence in Physics, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, 328 Si Ayutthaya Road, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
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158
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Tetzlaff EJ, Mourad F, Goulet N, Gorman M, Siblock R, Kidd SA, Bezgrebelna M, Kenny GP. " Death Is a Possibility for Those without Shelter": A Thematic Analysis of News Coverage on Homelessness and the 2021 Heat Dome in Canada. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:405. [PMID: 38673318 PMCID: PMC11050128 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21040405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Among the most vulnerable to the health-harming effects of heat are people experiencing homelessness. However, during the 2021 Heat Dome, the deadliest extreme heat event (EHE) recorded in Canada to date, people experiencing homelessness represented the smallest proportion of decedents (n = 3, 0.5%)-despite the impacted region (British Columbia) having some of the highest rates of homelessness in the country. Thus, we sought to explore the 2021 Heat Dome as a media-based case study to identify potential actions or targeted strategies that were initiated by community support agencies, individuals and groups, and communicated in the news during this EHE that may have aided in the protection of this group or helped minimize the mortality impacts. Using media articles collated for a more extensive investigation into the effects of the 2021 Heat Dome (n = 2909), we identified a subset which included content on people experiencing homelessness in Canada (n = 274, 9%). These articles were thematically analysed using NVivo. Three main themes were identified: (i) public warnings issued during the 2021 Heat Dome directly addressed people experiencing homelessness, (ii) community support services explicitly targeting this population were activated during the heat event, and (iii) challenges and barriers faced by people experiencing homelessness during extreme heat were communicated. These findings suggest that mass-media messaging and dedicated on-the-ground initiatives led by various organizations explicitly initiated to support individuals experiencing homelessness during the 2021 Heat Dome may have assisted in limiting the harmful impacts of the heat on this community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J. Tetzlaff
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, 125 University Private, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; (E.J.T.); (F.M.)
- Climate Change and Innovation Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Safe Environments Directorate, Health Canada, 269 Laurier Avenue W., Ottawa, ON K1A 0P8, Canada; (M.G.); (R.S.)
| | - Farah Mourad
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, 125 University Private, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; (E.J.T.); (F.M.)
| | - Nicholas Goulet
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, 125 University Private, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; (E.J.T.); (F.M.)
- Climate Change and Innovation Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Safe Environments Directorate, Health Canada, 269 Laurier Avenue W., Ottawa, ON K1A 0P8, Canada; (M.G.); (R.S.)
| | - Melissa Gorman
- Climate Change and Innovation Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Safe Environments Directorate, Health Canada, 269 Laurier Avenue W., Ottawa, ON K1A 0P8, Canada; (M.G.); (R.S.)
| | - Rachel Siblock
- Climate Change and Innovation Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Safe Environments Directorate, Health Canada, 269 Laurier Avenue W., Ottawa, ON K1A 0P8, Canada; (M.G.); (R.S.)
| | - Sean A. Kidd
- Slaight Family Centre for Youth in Transition, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 1001 Queen Street W., Toronto, ON M6J 1H4, Canada; (S.A.K.); (M.B.)
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 250 College Street, 8th Floor, Toronto, ON M5T 1R8, Canada
| | - Mariya Bezgrebelna
- Slaight Family Centre for Youth in Transition, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 1001 Queen Street W., Toronto, ON M6J 1H4, Canada; (S.A.K.); (M.B.)
| | - Glen P. Kenny
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, 125 University Private, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; (E.J.T.); (F.M.)
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9, Canada
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159
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Ny Mioramalala DJ, Ratovoson R, Tagnouokam-Ngoupo PA, Abessolo Abessolo H, Mindimi Nkodo JM, Bouting Mayaka G, Tsoungui Atangana PC, Randrianarisaona F, Pélembi P, Nzoumbou-Boko R, Coti-Reckoundji CSG, Manirakiza A, Rahantamalala A, Randremanana RV, Tejiokem MC, Schoenhals M. SARS-CoV-2 Neutralizing Antibodies in Three African Countries Following Multiple Distinct Immune Challenges. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:363. [PMID: 38675745 PMCID: PMC11054809 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12040363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has affected Madagascar, Cameroon, and the Central African Republic (CAR), with each experiencing multiple waves by mid-2022. This study aimed to evaluate immunity against SARS-CoV-2 strains Wuhan (W) and BA.2 (BA.2) among healthcare workers (HCWs) in these countries, focusing on vaccination and natural infection effects. METHODS HCWs' serum samples were analyzed for neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) against W and BA.2 variants, with statistical analyses comparing responses between countries and vaccination statuses. RESULTS Madagascar showed significantly higher nAb titers against both strains compared to CAR and Cameroon. Vaccination notably increased nAb levels against W by 2.6-fold in CAR and 1.8-fold in Madagascar, and against BA.2 by 1.6-fold in Madagascar and 1.5-fold in CAR. However, in Cameroon, there was no significant difference in nAb levels between vaccinated and unvaccinated groups. CONCLUSION This study highlights the complex relationship between natural and vaccine-induced immunity, emphasizing the importance of assessing immunity in regions with varied epidemic experiences and low vaccination rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diary Juliannie Ny Mioramalala
- Institut Pasteur of Madagascar, Immunology of Infectious Diseases, Antananarivo 101, Madagascar; (D.J.N.M.); (F.R.); (A.R.)
| | - Rila Ratovoson
- Institut Pasteur of Madagascar, Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Antananarivo 101, Madagascar; (R.R.); (R.V.R.)
| | - Paul Alain Tagnouokam-Ngoupo
- Centre Pasteur du Cameroon, Epidemiology and Public Health, Yaoundé P.O. Box 1274, Cameroon; (P.A.T.-N.); (M.C.T.)
| | | | | | | | | | - Fanirisoa Randrianarisaona
- Institut Pasteur of Madagascar, Immunology of Infectious Diseases, Antananarivo 101, Madagascar; (D.J.N.M.); (F.R.); (A.R.)
| | - Pulchérie Pélembi
- Institut Pasteur of Bangui, Epidemiology, Bangui P.O. Box 923, Central African Republic; (P.P.); (R.N.-B.); (C.S.G.C.-R.); (A.M.)
| | - Romaric Nzoumbou-Boko
- Institut Pasteur of Bangui, Epidemiology, Bangui P.O. Box 923, Central African Republic; (P.P.); (R.N.-B.); (C.S.G.C.-R.); (A.M.)
| | | | - Alexandre Manirakiza
- Institut Pasteur of Bangui, Epidemiology, Bangui P.O. Box 923, Central African Republic; (P.P.); (R.N.-B.); (C.S.G.C.-R.); (A.M.)
| | - Anjanirina Rahantamalala
- Institut Pasteur of Madagascar, Immunology of Infectious Diseases, Antananarivo 101, Madagascar; (D.J.N.M.); (F.R.); (A.R.)
| | - Rindra Vatosoa Randremanana
- Institut Pasteur of Madagascar, Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Antananarivo 101, Madagascar; (R.R.); (R.V.R.)
| | - Mathurin Cyrille Tejiokem
- Centre Pasteur du Cameroon, Epidemiology and Public Health, Yaoundé P.O. Box 1274, Cameroon; (P.A.T.-N.); (M.C.T.)
| | - Matthieu Schoenhals
- Institut Pasteur of Madagascar, Immunology of Infectious Diseases, Antananarivo 101, Madagascar; (D.J.N.M.); (F.R.); (A.R.)
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160
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Warrier V, Chamberlain SR, Thomas SA, Bowden-Jones H. Genetics of gambling disorder and related phenotypes: The potential uses of polygenic and multifactorial risk models to enable early detection and improve clinical outcomes. J Behav Addict 2024; 13:16-20. [PMID: 38224367 PMCID: PMC10988411 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2023.00075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Gambling Disorder (GD) is an impactful behavioural addiction for which there appear to be underpinning genetic contributors. Twin studies show significant GD heritability results and intergenerational transmission show high rates of transmission. Recent developments in polygenic and multifactorial risk prediction modelling provide promising opportunities to enable early identification and intervention for at risk individuals. People with GD often have significant delays in diagnosis and subsequent help-seeking that can compromise their recovery. In this paper we advocate for more research into the utility of polygenic and multifactorial risk modelling in GD research and treatment programs and rigorous evaluation of its costs and benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun Warrier
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Samuel R Chamberlain
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Shane A. Thomas
- Vice Chancellor's Office and Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University, Australia
| | - Henrietta Bowden-Jones
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, UK
- National Problem Gambling Clinic & National Centre for Gaming Disorders, London, UK
- Department of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
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161
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Ahmed SAE, AbuKoura R, Ahmed AE, Abdalla O, Hassan OK, Tom A, Eldirdiri A, Ismaeil D, Zainalabdeen I, Nurelhuda N, Ahmed A, Abdan A, Dahab M, Abdelmagid N. Changes in social mixing and attitudes and practices to precautionary measures in a maturing COVID-19 pandemic in six communities in Sudan: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:895. [PMID: 38532360 PMCID: PMC10964503 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18274-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION With low COVID-19 vaccination coverage, non-pharmaceutical interventions were critical to mitigating the COVID-19 pandemic in Sudan. We explored changes in social contact patterns, risk perception, attitudes, and practices toward protective measures during an evolving COVID-19 outbreak in six illustrative communities in Sudan. METHODS This qualitative study took place in six communities in five Sudanese states using focus group discussions with community members and non-participant structured observations in public spaces between March 2021 and April 2021. A total of 117 participants joined 24 group discussions. We used a two-stage thematic analysis. RESULTS The perceived importance of compliance with individual preventative measures among those who believe in COVID-19 was higher than observed compliance with behaviors in most study sites. Adherence was consistently low and mainly driven by enforced movement restrictions. As restrictions were lifted, social contacts outside the household resumed pre-COVID-19 levels, and risk perception and individual and institutional adherence to protective measures diminished. We identified an environment that is socially and economically unsupportive of preventive practices, compounded by widespread rumours, misinformation, and mistrust in the government-led response. However, we identified new social habits that can contribute to reducing COVID-19 transmission. CONCLUSION The unfavourable social and economic environment, coupled with the low visibility of the pandemic and pandemic response, has likely modulated the influence of higher risk perception on adopting precautionary behaviours by individuals. Governments and non-governmental actors should increase the visibility of the pandemic and pandemic response, enforce and incentivise infection control measures in public areas, promote emerging preventive social habits, and actively track and address rumours and misinformation related to COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salma A E Ahmed
- Independent public health researcher, Khartoum, Sudan.
- Sudan COVID-19 Research Group, Khartoum, Sudan.
| | - Rahaf AbuKoura
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London, UK
- Sudan COVID-19 Research Group, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Abd Elhameed Ahmed
- Y-PEER Sudan, Khartoum, Sudan
- Sudan COVID-19 Research Group, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Omama Abdalla
- Y-PEER Sudan, Khartoum, Sudan
- Sudan COVID-19 Research Group, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Omnia Kamal Hassan
- Y-PEER Sudan, Khartoum, Sudan
- Sudan COVID-19 Research Group, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Ahmed Tom
- Y-PEER Sudan, Khartoum, Sudan
- Sudan COVID-19 Research Group, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Ahmed Eldirdiri
- Y-PEER Sudan, Khartoum, Sudan
- Sudan COVID-19 Research Group, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Drieg Ismaeil
- Y-PEER Sudan, Khartoum, Sudan
- Sudan COVID-19 Research Group, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Israa Zainalabdeen
- Y-PEER Sudan, Khartoum, Sudan
- Sudan COVID-19 Research Group, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Nazik Nurelhuda
- University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
- Sudan COVID-19 Research Group, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Aljaile Ahmed
- Y-PEER Sudan, Khartoum, Sudan
- Sudan COVID-19 Research Group, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Afrah Abdan
- The Federal Ministry of Health, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Maysoon Dahab
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London, UK
- Sudan COVID-19 Research Group, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Nada Abdelmagid
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London, UK
- Sudan COVID-19 Research Group, Khartoum, Sudan
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Kovalenko AG, Fenton RA. Bystander Intervention in Football and Sports. A Quasi-Experimental Feasibility Study of a Bystander Violence Prevention Program in the United Kingdom. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2024:8862605241239452. [PMID: 38529918 DOI: 10.1177/08862605241239452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, social campaigns and high-profile cases have brought increased attention to violence against women. Athletes can be role models, shaping both prosocial and antisocial attitudes. Their engagement in violence prevention could be an effective tool to tackle violence against women through bystander intervention. This part of a mixed-method feasibility study reports on the quantitative evaluation of an evidence-led bystander program, Football Onside, implemented at a football club in South West England in June 2018 to February 2020. The study employed a quasi-experimental design with intervention and control groups. Football coaches and club members (n = 50) completed measures of rape and domestic abuse myths, bystander intent and efficacy, self-reported bystander behaviors, readiness for change, perceptions of peer helping and myth acceptance, law knowledge, and program evaluation. Fidelity was also assessed. The analysis compared between- and within-group differences in mean changes over time using mixed-effects models. Participant ratings of learning outcomes were high, and fidelity was maintained throughout the intervention. Between-group comparison revealed mixed results, with greater improvements in the intervention group for bystander intent and efficacy at post-test and follow-up, domestic abuse myths at post-test, and rape myth acceptance at follow-up. Model contrasts for within intervention group revealed improvements in rape and domestic abuse myth acceptance, bystander intent and efficacy, perceived law knowledge at both time points, and perceived peer myths and helping at post-test. At follow-up, intervention participants reported significantly higher engagement in bystander behaviors. No significant effects were found for perceived importance of legal knowledge. Our research highlights the potential efficacy of a bystander program tailored for football club members. Cluster-randomized control trials are now required to examine bystander attitudes and behavior change processes among professional athletes.
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163
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Darebo TD, Birhanu Z, Alemayehu M, Balcha B, Worku A, Assele DD, Spigt M. Utilization of sexual and reproductive health services among construction worker women in southern Ethiopia. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:201. [PMID: 38532387 PMCID: PMC10967034 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-03042-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Ethiopia, the utilization of sexual and reproductive health services (SRH) is alarmingly inadequate, leading to higher rates of maternal and newborn mortality. Disparities in accessing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services exist among different population groups, with construction worker women at a higher risk of experiencing such issues. We investigated the utilization of sexual and reproductive health services and associated factors among construction worker women in Southern Ethiopia. METHOD We conducted a cross-sectional study among construction worker women (15-49) in Southern Ethiopia from July 1st to July 30th, 2021. The participants were selected randomly using venue-day-time sampling (VDTS). The data were collected by a pretested structured questionnaire using an open data kit (ODK) and exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 for analysis. Binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with sexual and reproductive health service utilization. An adjusted odds ratio with 95% CI was used and statistical significance was declared at p-value < 0.05. RESULTS The study revealed that 54.4% of women of reproductive age had used at least one sexual and reproductive health service in the past year. About 66.7% of women experienced sexual harassment at work, with sex discrimination (86.9%) and sexist hostility (57.9%) being the most common. Aged over 20 years, married women, living with husbands, friends, and boyfriends, within 30 min of health facilities, and having a favorable attitude were significantly associated with SRH service utilization. CONCLUSION Nearly half of construction workers in southern Ethiopia are not using sexual and reproductive health services, indicating a concerning lack of access to such services. Over two-thirds of women experience sexual harassment in construction site. Therefore, to ensure universal access to SRH services, it is essential to design a new approach including outreach programs specifically tailored to reach such vulnerable groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadele Dana Darebo
- Department of Reproductive Health and Nutrition, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences and Medicine, Wolaita Sodo University, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia
| | - Zewudu Birhanu
- Department of Reproductive Health and Nutrition, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences and Medicine, Wolaita Sodo University, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia
| | - Mihretu Alemayehu
- Department of Reproductive Health and Nutrition, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences and Medicine, Wolaita Sodo University, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia
| | - Behailu Balcha
- 2Department of public health, College of Health Sciences and Medicine, Wolaita Sodo University, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia
| | - Adisu Worku
- Wolaita Zone Health Department, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia
| | - Desalegn Dawit Assele
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia.
| | - Mark Spigt
- Research Institute CAPHRI, Department of Family Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
- General Practice Research Unit, Department of Community Medicine, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
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Iweama CN, Agbaje OS, Lerum NI, Igbokwe CC, Ozoemena LE. Suicidal ideation and attempts among Nigerian undergraduates: Exploring the relationships with depression, hopelessness, perceived burdensomeness, and thwarted belongingness. SAGE Open Med 2024; 12:20503121241236137. [PMID: 38533197 PMCID: PMC10964440 DOI: 10.1177/20503121241236137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective The study investigated the prevalence of suicidal behavior and its association with depression, hopelessness, perceived burdensomeness, and thwarted belongingness in a sample of undergraduates in Nigeria. Introduction Suicide is a leading cause of death among young adults globally. However, information about suicidal ideation, attempts, and relationships with psychiatric factors, perceived burdensomeness, and thwarted belongingness is sparse in Nigeria. The study investigated the prevalence of suicidal ideation and attempts and associated factors in a sample of undergraduates in Nigeria. Methods We collected data from a cross-sectional survey of 625 undergraduate students primarily recruited from universities, colleges of education, and polytechnics in Adamawa Central Senatorial Zone, Adamawa State, northeast Nigeria. The Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised, the 15-item Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire, the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire, and the 20-item version of the Beck Hopelessness Scale were administered to the participants. We used descriptive statistics and binary and multivariate logistic regressions for data analysis. Results A total of 616 students with a mean age of 21.41 ± 4.72 years completed the study. The prevalence of suicidal behavior was 34.9% (215/616). Having a female sex (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 8.37, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.06, 34.03), depression (AOR = 45.15, 95% CI: 0.95, 5.11), hopelessness (AOR = 20.10, 95% CI: 5.56, 72.41), and perceived burdensomeness (AOR = 89.15, 95% CI: 29.63, 268.30) were associated with suicidal ideation. In addition, being a female (AOR = 1.69, 95% CI = 1.02, 2.83), being a 200-level student (AOR = 3.41, 95% CI = 1.46, 7.96), and being a 300-level student (AOR = 0.28, 95% CI = 0.11, 0.74) were associated with suicidal attempt. Conclusion The study's findings show that suicidal behaviors (ideations and attempts) are prevalent among undergraduate students in northeast Nigeria. The findings underline the need for the development of mental health services and early identification and intervention for at-risk young people in Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cylia Nkechi Iweama
- Faculty of Education, Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Olaoluwa Samson Agbaje
- Faculty of Education, Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Namuga Isaiah Lerum
- Faculty of Education, Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Charles Chima Igbokwe
- Faculty of Education, Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Lawretta Eyuche Ozoemena
- Faculty of Education, Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria
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Kuo CT, Yu RR. Association of National Identity and Trust in Government with COVID-19 Vaccination and Brand Choice in Taiwan. J Community Health 2024:10.1007/s10900-024-01347-4. [PMID: 38522040 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-024-01347-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
In Taiwan, hesitancy regarding COVID-19 vaccination centered more on the choice of vaccine brand than on the decision to vaccinate. However, there is limited research exploring the factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine brand preferences from a sociopolitical perspective. Thus, we aimed to examine how Taiwanese national identity and trust in government influence vaccination status and vaccine brand choice, using longitudinal data from 2020, 2021, and 2023. This study utilized data from the Taiwan Panel Study of Family Dynamics 2020 survey, and combined it with data from two self-administered surveys conducted in 2021 and 2023. We focused on four vaccines commonly administered in Taiwan: AstraZeneca, Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, and the domestically-developed Medigen. Using Poisson regression models with robust standard errors, we assessed the effects of national identity and trust in government on the choice of COVID-19 vaccine brand. By analyzing data from 2361 participants, we found that national identity and trust in government were associated with the likelihood of COVID-19 vaccination, the number of vaccine doses received, and the brand of vaccine taken. Those who identified themselves as Taiwanese were more inclined to receive the Medigen and AstraZeneca vaccines, but less willing to receive Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. Those who trusted the government were more likely to prefer and receive the Medigen vaccine. Conversely, those who didn't trust the government were less likely to prefer Medigen and AstraZeneca vaccines, but were willing to receive Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. Vaccine brand preferences and uptake in Taiwan were affected by individuals' national identity and their trust in government. This highlights the critical role of sociopolitical factors in shaping public health strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Tung Kuo
- Center for Survey Research, Research Center for Humanities and Social Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Institute of Health Behaviors and Community Sciences, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Ruoh-Rong Yu
- Center for Survey Research, Research Center for Humanities and Social Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
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166
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Quek ZBR, Ng SH. Hybrid-Capture Target Enrichment in Human Pathogens: Identification, Evolution, Biosurveillance, and Genomic Epidemiology. Pathogens 2024; 13:275. [PMID: 38668230 PMCID: PMC11054155 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13040275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
High-throughput sequencing (HTS) has revolutionised the field of pathogen genomics, enabling the direct recovery of pathogen genomes from clinical and environmental samples. However, pathogen nucleic acids are often overwhelmed by those of the host, requiring deep metagenomic sequencing to recover sufficient sequences for downstream analyses (e.g., identification and genome characterisation). To circumvent this, hybrid-capture target enrichment (HC) is able to enrich pathogen nucleic acids across multiple scales of divergences and taxa, depending on the panel used. In this review, we outline the applications of HC in human pathogens-bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses-including identification, genomic epidemiology, antimicrobial resistance genotyping, and evolution. Importantly, we explored the applicability of HC to clinical metagenomics, which ultimately requires more work before it is a reliable and accurate tool for clinical diagnosis. Relatedly, the utility of HC was exemplified by COVID-19, which was used as a case study to illustrate the maturity of HC for recovering pathogen sequences. As we unravel the origins of COVID-19, zoonoses remain more relevant than ever. Therefore, the role of HC in biosurveillance studies is also highlighted in this review, which is critical in preparing us for the next pandemic. We also found that while HC is a popular tool to study viruses, it remains underutilised in parasites and fungi and, to a lesser extent, bacteria. Finally, weevaluated the future of HC with respect to bait design in the eukaryotic groups and the prospect of combining HC with long-read HTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z. B. Randolph Quek
- Defence Medical & Environmental Research Institute, DSO National Laboratories, Singapore 117510, Singapore
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Sayed AA. Evaluating COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among parents in Saudi Arabia: a systematic review examining attitudes, hesitancy, and intentions. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1327944. [PMID: 38584927 PMCID: PMC10995243 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1327944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic, affecting adults and children equally, has caused significant disruption to countries worldwide, including Saudi Arabia. In Saudi Arabia, the fast preventative measures and mass vaccine enrollment were vital to contain the devastating impact of the pandemic. However, vaccine hesitancy, especially among parents toward vaccinating their children, was a significant obstacle to vaccine uptake. Methods This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines to assess parental willingness to vaccinate their children against COVID-19, determine the key determinants influencing such intention and attitudes, and underline the significant concerns and misconceptions regarding the vaccine among parents. The Joanne Briggs Institute (JBI) checklist for prevalence studies was used to assess included studies for risk of bias. Results Twenty-three studies were included in this systematic review, representing a total of 20,926 participants, with over 66% of them were female. Over 37% of the participants were willing to vaccinate their children against COVID-19. Parents' age, gender, level of education, and income were the main determinants of their intention to vaccinate their children. The parents' main concerns were the potential vaccine side effects, safety, and efficacy. Major misconceptions about the COVID-19 vaccine included it being dangerous to children and that children are at lower risk of severe infection; hence, vaccines were not needed. Discussion This seminal review provides insights to public health policymakers, which should be considered and taken together in light of other studies addressing parental vaccine hesitancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anwar A. Sayed
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
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Wong JW, Tan JH, Abraham RE, Jauhar Ali SN, Kok SY, Tan HCL, Tan JH, Ni H. A comparative study of anxiety and depression among healthcare workers and non-healthcare workers in Johor, Malaysia during the Covid-19 era. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e37415. [PMID: 38518019 PMCID: PMC10956993 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000037415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The outbreak of Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) has a significant impact on the mental health of the global population. Updates are needed regarding the mental health status among the local population since limited studies were done so far. This research compared the prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms among HCWs and non-HCWs. We also evaluated the factors associated with anxiety and depression symptoms among these 2 groups. This was a cross-sectional study conducted between September to December 2022. Online questionnaire was distributed to HCWs from 2 tertiary government hospitals. Non-HCWs from various occupational fields were recruited randomly. Generalised Anxiety Disorder 7 (GAD-7) and Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) were used to screen for anxiety and depression symptoms respectively. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 28.0. 200 questionnaires were distributed to HCWs and non-HCWs respectively. The response rate was 74.5% from HCWs and 82.5% from non-HCWs (P = .07). A total of 236 individuals (105 HCWs and 131 non-HCWs) were included in the study. Majority were female, married, highly educated and worked more than 8 hours per day. There was no significant difference for the prevalence of anxiety (37.2% vs 44.3%, P = .34) and depression symptoms (37.3% vs 35.1%, P = .75) between HCWs and non-HCWs. Among HCWs, poor workplace support (P = .009) and low income (P = .04) were associated with anxiety symptoms. Younger age (P = .02), single status (P = .01) and poor workplace support (P = .006) were associated with depression symptoms. More non-HCWs with a higher educational level were having anxiety and depression symptoms. Single status (P = .03), working away from home (P = .02), poor family support (P = .03) and quarantine as Covid-19 close contact (P = .04) were also associated with depression symptoms among non-HCWs. There is no significant difference between HCWs and non-HCWs experiencing possible anxiety or depressive symptoms in this study. However, attention should be paid to address associated factors identified among each group to promote good mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wen Wong
- Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia, Iskandar Puteri, Malaysia
| | - Jun Hui Tan
- Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia, Iskandar Puteri, Malaysia
| | | | | | - Si Yin Kok
- Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia, Iskandar Puteri, Malaysia
| | - Henry Chor Lip Tan
- Department of General Surgery, KPJ Bandar Dato Onn Specialist Hospital, Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| | - Jih Huei Tan
- Department of General Surgery, Hospital Sultanah Aminah, Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| | - Han Ni
- Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia, Iskandar Puteri, Malaysia
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Hui Y, Wang H, Guo G, Yang W, Zhang X, Yang J, Yang F, Wang X, Fan X, Cui B, Chen X, Jiao H, Sun C. Association Between Quality of Life Defined by EuroQol Group 5 Dimension and Composite Inferior Outcome Among Inpatients with Cirrhosis. Clin Interv Aging 2024; 19:551-560. [PMID: 38528882 PMCID: PMC10962662 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s444842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose The utility of the EuroQol Group 5 Dimension (EQ-5D) measuring health-related quality of life (HRQoL) has been verified; however, knowledge gaps remain concerning predictive performance in cirrhosis. We aimed to identify the optimal threshold for risk stratification and the pronounced domain in the EQ-5D linked to inferior outcomes. Patients and Methods The X-tile project was used to obtain a threshold, considering the composite outcome of 1-year all-cause mortality or readmission. A restricted cubic spline (RCS) was performed to test the non-linear relationship between the EQ-5D utility value and the primary outcome. Six multivariate Cox regression models incorporating EQ-5D utility value and each of the five domains were constructed. Setting/Participants Totally, 420 patients with cirrhosis were recruited. Results The median utility value of the study population was 0.77 and 59.8% reported impairment in minimal one EQ-5D domain. RCS indicated a linear relationship between the utility value and composite inferior outcome. X-tile pinpointed a utility value of 0.59 stratifying populations into high- and low-risk groups based on the outcome. Inpatients with cirrhosis and deteriorated HRQoL (utility value ≤0.59) were at higher risk of death or readmission (adjusted HR: 2.18, P < 0.001). Furthermore, mobility and usual activities were the most pronounced domains associated with composite inferior outcome. Conclusion A utility value ≤0.59 can identify cirrhotic inpatients exhibiting compromised HRQoL and mortality/readmission risk. It is tempting to reverse the decreased HRQoL by applying longitudinal measurements and keeping surveillance on utility value, while interventions appear to mainly focus on improving mobility and usual activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Hui
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Han Wang
- Department of Health Management, Tianjin Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Gaoyue Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wanting Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xuqian Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, China Aerospace Science & Industry Corporation 731 Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fang Yang
- Department of Digestive System, Baodi Clinical College of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaofei Fan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Binxin Cui
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital Airport Hospital, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huanli Jiao
- Department of Health Management, Tianjin Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chao Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital Airport Hospital, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
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Vicentini C, Ricchizzi E, Russotto A, Bazzolo S, Bedosti C, Blengini V, Ceccarelli D, Fabbri E, Gamba D, Maddaleno A, Rolfini E, Tancredi M, Zotti CM. Validation of the prevalence to incidence conversion method for healthcare associated infections in long-term care facilities. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300794. [PMID: 38512824 PMCID: PMC10956812 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Residents of long-term care facilities (LTCFs) are a population at high risk of developing severe healthcare associated infections (HAIs). In the assessment of HAIs in acute-care hospitals, selection bias can occur due to cases being over-represented: patients developing HAIs usually have longer lengths of stays compared to controls, and therefore have an increased probability of being sampled in PPS, leading to an overestimation of HAI prevalence. Our hypothesis was that in LTCFs, the opposite may occur: residents developing HAIs either may have a greater chance of being transferred to acute-care facilities or of dying, and therefore could be under-represented in PPS, leading to an underestimation of HAI prevalence. Our aim was to test this hypothesis by comparing HAI rates obtained through longitudinal and cross-sectional studies. METHODS Results from two studies conducted simultaneously in four LTCFs in Italy were compared: a longitudinal study promoted by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC, HALT4 longitudinal study, H4LS), and a PPS. Prevalence was estimated from the PPS and converted into incidence per year using an adapted version of the Rhame and Sudderth formula proposed by the ECDC. Differences between incidence rates calculated from the PPS results and obtained from H4LS were investigated using the Byar method for rate ratio (RR). RESULTS On the day of the PPS, HAI prevalence was 1.47% (95% confidence interval, CI 0.38-3.97), whereas the H4LS incidence rate was 3.53 per 1000 patient-days (PDs, 95% CI 2.99-4.08). Conversion of prevalence rates obtained through the PPS into incidence using the ECDC formula resulted in a rate of 0.86 per 1000 PDs (95% CI 0-2.68). Comparing the two rates, a RR of 0.24 (95% CI 0.03-2.03, p 0.1649) was found. CONCLUSIONS This study did not find significant differences between HAI incidence estimates obtained from a longitudinal study and through conversion from PPS data. Results of this study support the validity of the ECDC method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Costanza Vicentini
- Department of Public Health and Paediatrics, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Enrico Ricchizzi
- Settore Innovazione nei Servizi Sanitari e Sociali, Direzione Generale cura della Persona, Salute e Welfare, Regione Emilia-Romagna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Antonino Russotto
- Department of Public Health and Paediatrics, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Stefano Bazzolo
- Department of Environment, Land and Infrastructure Engineering (DIATI), Politecnico of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Catia Bedosti
- Nucleo Operativo Rischio Infettivo—Governo Clinico—AUSL di Imola, Bologna, Italy
| | - Valentina Blengini
- Department of Public Health and Paediatrics, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Elisa Fabbri
- Settore Innovazione nei Servizi Sanitari e Sociali, Direzione Generale cura della Persona, Salute e Welfare, Regione Emilia-Romagna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Anna Maddaleno
- Department of Public Health and Paediatrics, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Edoardo Rolfini
- Department of Public Health and Paediatrics, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Carla Maria Zotti
- Department of Public Health and Paediatrics, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
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Sarkar S, Jackson B, Manzo LL, Jeon S, Poghosyan H. Association between adverse childhood experiences and self-reported health-risk behaviors among cancer survivors: A population-based study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299918. [PMID: 38512934 PMCID: PMC10956880 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS Existing evidence shows that people who report Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are more likely to exhibit health-risk behaviors. However, limited research on this topic pertains to oncology population. We aim to address this knowledge gap by estimating the prevalence of ACEs and investigating their association with self-reported health-risk behaviors among adult cancer survivors living in the U.S. METHODS We conducted a secondary analysis using cross-sectional data from the 2021 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System ACE module. We included 4,126 adults, aged ≥18 years, with a history of cancer. The outcome variable was self-reported health-risk behaviors, which included cigarette smoking, e-cigarette use, and binge alcohol drinking. Self-reported ACEs history was the primary independent variable, comprised of 11 questions regarding child abuse and dysfunctional households. We conducted descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression to describe the relationship between the ACE history and health-risk behaviors. RESULTS Overall, 84.2% of cancer survivors self-reported as White, 58.4% were women, and 76.6% were aged 65+ years. Nearly two-thirds of the sample (63.2%) self-reported at least one ACE (prior to age 18) and 21.7% engaged in ≥1 health-risk-behaviors, such as cigarette smoking, binge alcohol drinking, or e-cigarette use. Experiencing ≥3 ACEs was associated with 145% increased odds of reporting at least one health-risk behavior (OR = 2.45, 95% CI [1.78-3.38]) when compared to those without a history of ACEs. Besides, survivors who were younger, divorced, less educated, and had low income had higher odds of reporting at least one health-risk behavior. CONCLUSIONS Overall, a history of ACEs is associated with health-risk behaviors. These all can negatively impact cancer survivors' overall well-being. Early screening for ACE during oncologic visits can be a protective measure for preventing health-risk behaviors among cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayantani Sarkar
- Yale University School of Nursing, Orange, CT, United States of America
| | - Brianna Jackson
- Yale University School of Nursing, Orange, CT, United States of America
| | - Laura L. Manzo
- Yale University School of Nursing, Orange, CT, United States of America
- US Army, AMEDD Student Detachment, Joint Base San Antonio, Fort Sam Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Sangchoon Jeon
- Yale University School of Nursing, Orange, CT, United States of America
| | - Hermine Poghosyan
- Yale University School of Nursing, Orange, CT, United States of America
- COPPER Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America
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172
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Burton E, Quinn R, Crosbie-Staunton K, Deasy C, Masterson S, O'Donnell C, Merwick Á, Willis D, Kearney PM, Mc Carthy VJC, Buckley CM. Temporal trends of ambulance time intervals for suspected stroke/transient ischaemic attack (TIA) before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ireland: a quasi-experimental study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e078168. [PMID: 38508613 PMCID: PMC10961584 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-078168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Time is a fundamental component of acute stroke and transient ischaemic attack (TIA) care, thus minimising prehospital delays is a crucial part of the stroke chain of survival. COVID-19 restrictions were introduced in Ireland in response to the pandemic, which resulted in major societal changes. However, current research on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on prehospital care for stroke/TIA is limited to early COVID-19 waves. Thus, we aimed to investigate the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on ambulance time intervals and suspected stroke/TIA call volume for adults with suspected stroke and TIA in Ireland, from 2018 to 2021. DESIGN We conducted a secondary data analysis with a quasi-experimental design. SETTING We used data from the National Ambulance Service in Ireland. We defined the COVID-19 period as '1 March 2020-31 December 2021' and the pre-COVID-19 period '1 January 2018-29 February 2020'. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES We compared five ambulance time intervals: 'allocation performance', 'mobilisation performance', 'response time', 'on scene time' and 'conveyance time' between the two periods using descriptive and regression analyses. We also compared call volume for suspected stroke/TIA between the pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19 periods using interrupted time series analysis. PARTICIPANTS We included all suspected stroke/TIA cases ≥18 years who called the National Ambulance Service from 2018 to 2021. RESULTS 40 004 cases were included: 19 826 in the pre-COVID-19 period and 19 731 in the COVID-19 period. All ambulance time intervals increased during the pandemic period compared with pre-COVID-19 (p<0.001). Call volume increased during the COVID-19-period compared with the pre-COVID-19 period (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS A 'shock' like a pandemic has a negative impact on the prehospital phase of care for time-sensitive conditions like stroke/TIA. System evaluation and public awareness campaigns are required to ensure maintenance of prehospital stroke pathways amidst future healthcare crises. Thus, this research is relevant to routine and extraordinary prehospital service planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edel Burton
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Rory Quinn
- National Ambulance Service, Health Service Executive, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Conor Deasy
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
- College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Siobhan Masterson
- National Ambulance Service, Health Service Executive, Dublin, Ireland
- College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Discipline of General Practice, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Cathal O'Donnell
- National Ambulance Service, Health Service Executive, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Áine Merwick
- Neurology Department, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
| | - David Willis
- National Ambulance Service, Health Service Executive, Dublin, Ireland
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173
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Elhabashy M, Chiangong J, Villalobos K, Montiel Ishino FA, Adzrago D, Williams F. Prevalence of depressive symptoms among Hispanic/Latino ethnic subgroups during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6727. [PMID: 38509221 PMCID: PMC10954677 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57064-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Hispanic/Latino populations experienced disproportionate exposure to depression risk factors during the COVID-19 pandemic. While aggregated data confirm the risks of depressive symptoms among Hispanic/Latino individuals, little research uses disaggregated data to investigate these risks based on ethnic subgroups. Using the "Understanding the Impact of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Social Distancing on Physical and Psychosocial (Mental) Health and Chronic Diseases" survey, which was distributed nationally between May 13, 2021, and January 9, 2022 (N = 5413), we estimated the prevalence of depressive symptoms among Hispanic/Latino ethnic subgroups during the pandemic. We performed descriptive analysis on a 116-item survey, which collected disaggregated data from Hispanic/Latino individuals aged ≥ 18 years (n = 1181). About one-third of the participants reported depressive symptoms (31.3%), with those who self-identified as other Hispanic/Latino/Spanish origin (40.2%) reporting the highest depressive symptom prevalence. Among participants who reported depression treatment before the pandemic, the highest reports of treatment were among Puerto Rican (81.8%) participants. More than one-third of participants receiving prior depression treatment (38.7%) reported treatment interference by the pandemic, mostly among Central American individuals (50.0%). This study highlights the need for integrating more disaggregated data into public health approaches which seek to target population subgroups and reduce racial/ethnic mental health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Elhabashy
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, 11545 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jolyna Chiangong
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, 11545 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kevin Villalobos
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, 11545 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Francisco A Montiel Ishino
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - David Adzrago
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, 11545 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Faustine Williams
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, 11545 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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174
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Ghasemi M, Savabi-Esfahani M, Noroozi M, Satari M. Prediction of cervical cancer screening: application of the information-motivation-behavioral skills model. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:351. [PMID: 38504202 PMCID: PMC10949627 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-12098-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Screening is an effective method for preventing cervical cancer. The present study aimed to determine the predictability of cervical cancer screening using the information-motivation-behavioral skills (IMB) model, as this model can help understand the factors that influence health-related behaviors. METHOD The present cross-sectional study examined 310 women aged 20 to 60 in Isfahan, Iran, between 2020 and 2021. To this end, comprehensive health centers and gynecology clinics of hospitals were randomly selected by lot. Women who met the study's inclusion criteria were selected via convenience sampling. An IMB skills questionnaire developed by researchers comprised the data collection tool. The data were analyzed using SPSS 22 software, descriptive and regression tests, and AMOS 24.0 software. FINDINGS Approximately 18.1% of the participants had never undergone routine cervical cancer screening. The regression model results indicated that the model components accurately predicted regular cervical cancer screening (P < 0.00). Path analysis revealed that information (β = 0.05, P = 0.002), motivation (β = 0.187, P = 0.026), and behavioral skills (β = 0.95, P < 0.001) were directly associated with regular cervical cancer screening. Furthermore, behavioral skills had the greatest direct effect on regular cervical cancer screening. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION The results demonstrated that the IMB model accurately predicted cervical cancer screening. Therefore, it is possible to improve cervical cancer screening in women by designing and implementing interventions based on this model's components, particularly those that improve behavioral skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzieh Ghasemi
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mitra Savabi-Esfahani
- Department of Midwifery and Reproductive Health, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
| | - Mahnaz Noroozi
- Department of Midwifery and Reproductive Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Satari
- Department Health Information Technology, Health Information Technology Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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175
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Mboussou F, Nkamedjie P, Oyaole D, Farham B, Atagbaza A, Nsasiirwe S, Costache A, Brooks D, Wiysonge CS, Impouma B. Rapid assessment of data systems for COVID-19 vaccination in the WHO African Region. Epidemiol Infect 2024; 152:e50. [PMID: 38497495 PMCID: PMC11022257 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268824000451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Most countries in Africa deployed digital solutions to monitor progress in rolling out COVID-19 vaccines. A rapid assessment of existing data systems for COVID-19 vaccines in the African region was conducted between May and July 2022, in 23 countries. Data were collected through interviews with key informants, identified among senior staff within Ministries of Health, using a semi-structured electronic questionnaire. At vaccination sites, individual data were collected in paper-based registers in five countries (21.7%), in an electronic registry in two countries (8.7%), and in the remaining 16 countries (69.6%) using a combination of paper-based and electronic registries. Of the 18 countries using client-based digital registries, 11 (61%) deployed the District Health Information System 2 Tracker, and seven (39%), a locally developed platform. The mean percentage of individual data transcribed in the electronic registries was 61% ± 36% standard deviation. Unreliable Internet coverage (100% of countries), non-payment of data clerks' incentives (89%), and lack of electronic devices (89%) were the main reasons for the suboptimal functioning of digital systems quoted by key informants. It is critical for investments made and experience acquired in deploying electronic platforms for COVID-19 vaccines to be leveraged to strengthen routine immunization data management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franck Mboussou
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo
| | | | - Daniel Oyaole
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo
| | - Bridget Farham
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo
| | - Ajiri Atagbaza
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo
| | - Sheillah Nsasiirwe
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo
| | | | - Donald Brooks
- World Health Organization, Department of Immunization, Vaccines & Biologicals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Benido Impouma
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo
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176
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Botchway-Commey EN, Adonteng-Kissi O, Meribe N, Chisanga D, Moustafa AA, Tembo A, Baffour FD, Gatwiri K, Doyle AK, Mwanri L, Osuagwu UL. Mental health and mental health help-seeking behaviors among first-generation voluntary African migrants: A systematic review. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298634. [PMID: 38498578 PMCID: PMC10947684 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Mental health challenges are highly prevalent in African migrants. However, understanding of mental health outcomes in first-generation voluntary African migrants is limited, despite the unique challenges faced by this migrant subgroup. This review aimed to synthesize the literature to understand the mental health challenges, help-seeking behavior, and the relationship between mental health and mental health help-seeking behavior in first-generation voluntary African migrants living outside Africa. METHODS Medline Complete, EMBASE, CINAHL Complete, and APA PsychINFO were searched for studies published between January 2012 to December 2023. Retrieved articles were processed, data from selected articles were extracted and synthesized to address the study aims, and included studies were evaluated for risk of bias. RESULTS Eight studies were included, including four quantitative and four qualitative studies, which focused on women with postnatal depression. Mental health challenges reported in the quantitative studies were depression, interpersonal disorders, and work-related stress. Risk (e.g., neglect from health professionals and lack of social/spousal support) and protective (e.g., sensitivity of community services and faith) factors associated with mental health were identified. Barriers (e.g., cultural beliefs about mental health and racial discrimination) and facilitators (sensitizing African women about mental health) of mental health help-seeking behavior were also identified. No significant relationship was reported between mental health and mental health help-seeking behavior, and the risk of bias results indicated some methodological flaws in the studies. CONCLUSION This review shows the dearth of research focusing on mental health and help-seeking behavior in this subgroup of African migrants. The findings highlight the importance of African migrants, especially mothers with newborns, examining cultural beliefs that may impact their mental health and willingness to seek help. Receiving countries should also strive to understand the needs of first-generation voluntary African migrants living abroad and offer mental health support that is patient-centered and culturally sensitive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edith N. Botchway-Commey
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Brain and Mind Group, Clinical Sciences, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Obed Adonteng-Kissi
- School of Arts and Humanities, Edith Cowan University, Southwest Campus, Bunbury, Australia
| | - Nnaemeka Meribe
- Department of Politics, Media and Philosophy, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David Chisanga
- Department of Energy Environment and Climate Action, Agriculture Victoria, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ahmed A. Moustafa
- Faculty of Society and Design, School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
- The Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Human Anatomy and Physiology, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Agness Tembo
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Frank Darkwa Baffour
- School of Humanities, Social Science and Creative Industries, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kathomi Gatwiri
- Faculty of Health, Centre for Children & Young People, Southern Cross University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Aunty Kerrie Doyle
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing CAG, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lillian Mwanri
- Centre for Public Health Research Equity and Human Flourishing, Torrens University Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Uchechukwu Levi Osuagwu
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing CAG, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, New South Wales, Australia
- Bathurst Rural Clinical School, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Bathurst, New South Wales, Australia
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Morita E, Kadotani H, Yamada N, Sasakabe T, Kawai S, Naito M, Tamura T, Wakai K. The Inverse Association between the Frequency of Forest Walking (Shinrin-yoku) and the Prevalence of Insomnia Symptoms in the General Japanese Population: A Japan Multi-Institutional Collaborative Cohort Daiko Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:350. [PMID: 38541349 PMCID: PMC10970638 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21030350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Since a single forest walk (Shinrin-yoku or forest bathing) session is reported to improve sleep temporarily, occasional forest walks may have a positive effect on daily sleep. Therefore, this study aimed to examine whether more frequent forest walking is associated with better daily sleep conditions. Data from the second survey of the Japan Multi-Institutional Collaborative Cohort (J-MICC) Daiko Study conducted among residents of Nagoya City, Japan, were used. The study design was a cross-sectional study. In total, 2044 participants (529 men and 1515 women; age, mean ± standard deviation: 58.8 ± 9.9 years) were included in the analysis. Frequent forest walks were associated with a low percentage of insomnia symptoms (Insomnia Severity Index ≥10) in women, but not in men. The adjusted odds ratio for the group that rarely took forest walks with reference to the group that engaged in the activity once a month or more often was 2.04 (95% confidence interval: 1.29-3.23) in women. Forest walk frequency was not significantly associated with sleep duration or sleep efficiency as measured by actigraphy in either men or women. In conclusion, the results suggested that increasing the frequency of forest walks or Shinrin-yoku may be effective in preventing insomnia in women.
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Grants
- Priority Areas of Cancer (No. 17015018) Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Japan.
- Innovative Areas (No. 221S0001) Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Japan.
- JSPS KAKENHI Grant (No. 16H06277, 18K11065, 21H02246, 22H04923 and No. 26507005) Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emi Morita
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan
- Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute, Forest Research and Management Organization, 1 Matsunosato, Tsukuba 305-8687, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kadotani
- Department of Psychiatry, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu 520-2192, Japan; (H.K.); (N.Y.)
| | - Naoto Yamada
- Department of Psychiatry, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu 520-2192, Japan; (H.K.); (N.Y.)
- Kanbayashi Memorial Hospital, 89-1 Orikuchinishi, Okucho, Ichinomiya 491-0201, Japan
| | - Tae Sasakabe
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (T.S.); (T.T.); (K.W.)
- Department of Public Health, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine, Nagakute 480-1195, Japan
| | - Sayo Kawai
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (T.S.); (T.T.); (K.W.)
- Department of Public Health, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine, Nagakute 480-1195, Japan
| | - Mariko Naito
- Department of Oral Epidemiology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8553, Japan;
| | - Takashi Tamura
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (T.S.); (T.T.); (K.W.)
| | - Kenji Wakai
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (T.S.); (T.T.); (K.W.)
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178
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Stein CM. Post-pandemic tuberculosis incidence: potential success of active case finding? Thorax 2024; 79:299-300. [PMID: 38395603 PMCID: PMC11013567 DOI: 10.1136/thorax-2023-221224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
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179
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Gazzetta S, Valent F, Sala A, Driul L, Brunelli L. Sexually transmitted infections and the HPV-related burden: evolution of Italian epidemiology and policy. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1336250. [PMID: 38560434 PMCID: PMC10978588 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1336250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major public health problem worldwide, with a high prevalence between the ages of 15 and 25 in most Western countries. High notification rates of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are reported in the WHO European Region, with differences between countries. In Italy, the total number of STIs alerts increased by 18% from 2020 to 2021. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection; globally one in seven women is infected by this virus, and certain sexual behaviors are important risk factors for HPV-related cancers, particularly cervical cancer (CC), anogenital cancers and cancers of the head and neck. The burden of CC is relevant worldwide, in particular in Europe CC is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women aged 15-44. This HPV-related tumor is preventable through a combined strategy of vaccination and screening for precursor lesions. In Italy, the coverage of organized screening varies from region to region and the average HPV vaccination rate is still far from the expected optimal threshold of 95% at the age of 12. To address the challenges of health promotion and HPV prevention, priority actions are needed such as: promoting education and information at every level, from schools to healthcare professionals. In Italy, education of adolescents on sexual and reproductive health, still remains critical, regionally inhomogeneous and much lower than in other European countries. Equitable measures need to be taken, and schools are an important place for health promotion activities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Francesca Valent
- Institute of Hygiene and Clinical Epidemiology, Friuli Centrale University Healthcare Trust, Udine, Italy
| | - Alessia Sala
- Departement of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Lorenza Driul
- Departement of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, ASUFC, Ospedale Santa Maria Della Misericordia, Udine, Italy
| | - Laura Brunelli
- Departement of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
- Accreditation, Quality and Clinical Risk Unit, Friuli Centrale University Healthcare Trust, Udine, Italy
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180
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Bijlani C, Vrinten C, Junghans C, Chang K, Lewis E, Mulla U, Seferidi P, Laverty AA, Vamos EP. Changes in diet and physical activity following a community-wide pilot intervention to tackle childhood obesity in a deprived inner-London ward. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:800. [PMID: 38481177 PMCID: PMC10938768 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18192-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Local authorities in England have an important role in shaping healthy local environments contributing to childhood obesity. This study examined changes in diet and physical activity in primary school children following a three-year, complex, community-based intervention in Golborne ward, the second most deprived ward in London. METHODS The Go-Golborne intervention aimed to shape the local environment across multiple settings with the engagement of a large number of local government and community stakeholders in a joint approach. Activities focused on six co-created themes to make changes to local environments and reduce sugary snacks and beverage consumption, increase fruit and vegetable intake, promote healthy snacks, increase active play and travel, and reduce screen time. We analysed changes in self-reported diet and physical activity, collected annually between 2016 and 2019, from 1,650 children aged 6-11 years through six local schools, who all received the intervention. We used multilevel, linear and logistic random-slope regression models adjusted for time on study, baseline age, gender, ethnicity, deprivation quintile, school, and baseline weight status. RESULTS After three years of follow-up, there were reductions in sugar-sweetened beverage consumption (adjusted beta -0·43 occasions/day, 95% CI -0·55 to -0·32), fruit and vegetable consumption (adjusted beta -0.22 portions, 95% CI -0.44 to 0.001) and car travel to and from school (adjusted OR 0·19, 95% CI 0·06 to 0·66), while screen time increased (high versus moderate/low: OR 2·30, 95% CI 1·36 to 3·90). For other behavioural outcomes, there was no statistically significant evidence of changes. CONCLUSION Local authorities have substantial powers to make positive changes to the obesogenic environment but programmes remain under-evaluated. Results from the ambitious Go-Golborne intervention demonstrated mixed results in health behaviours following programme implementation. These results underline the importance of a coordinated and comprehensive policy response to support changes in wider environmental and social conditions as well as appropriate and holistic evaluations of initiatives to inform local actions on obesogenic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charan Bijlani
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health, Public Health Policy Evaluation Unit, Imperial College London, 3rd Floor Reynolds Building, St Dunstan's Road, London, W6 8RP, UK.
- National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) School of Public Health Research (SPHR), London, UK.
| | - Charlotte Vrinten
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health, Public Health Policy Evaluation Unit, Imperial College London, 3rd Floor Reynolds Building, St Dunstan's Road, London, W6 8RP, UK
| | - Cornelia Junghans
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health, Public Health Policy Evaluation Unit, Imperial College London, 3rd Floor Reynolds Building, St Dunstan's Road, London, W6 8RP, UK
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Applied Research Collaboration Northwest London, London, UK
| | - Kiara Chang
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health, Public Health Policy Evaluation Unit, Imperial College London, 3rd Floor Reynolds Building, St Dunstan's Road, London, W6 8RP, UK
| | | | - UmmeZeinab Mulla
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health, Public Health Policy Evaluation Unit, Imperial College London, 3rd Floor Reynolds Building, St Dunstan's Road, London, W6 8RP, UK
| | - Paraskevi Seferidi
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health, Public Health Policy Evaluation Unit, Imperial College London, 3rd Floor Reynolds Building, St Dunstan's Road, London, W6 8RP, UK
| | - Anthony A Laverty
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health, Public Health Policy Evaluation Unit, Imperial College London, 3rd Floor Reynolds Building, St Dunstan's Road, London, W6 8RP, UK
| | - Eszter P Vamos
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health, Public Health Policy Evaluation Unit, Imperial College London, 3rd Floor Reynolds Building, St Dunstan's Road, London, W6 8RP, UK
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Capraru ID, Marian C, Vulcanescu DD, Tanasescu S, Dragomir TL, Marti TD, Boru C, Avram CR, Susan M, Vlad CS. Understanding the Impact of COVID-19 on Roma Vulnerable Communities in Western Romania: Insights and Predictive Factors from a Retrospective Study. Viruses 2024; 16:435. [PMID: 38543800 PMCID: PMC10974346 DOI: 10.3390/v16030435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately affected vulnerable populations like Roma patients in Western Romania due to marginalization and limited healthcare access. METHODS A retrospective study analyzed COVID-19 cases between March 2020 and August 2022 using data from the Directorate of Public Health in Timis county. Demographic, epidemiological, clinical, and laboratory data were assessed, along with risk factors and biomarkers for ICU admission and mortality prediction. The following biomarkers were assessed: C-reactive protein (CRP), ferritin (FER), IL-6, D-dimers, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), and 25-OH vitamin D (25-OHD). RESULTS In comparison with the general population (GP), Roma patients were more overweight (p = 0.0292), came from rural areas (p = 0.0001), could not recall transmission source (p = 0.0215), were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU, p = 0.0399) more frequently, had worse symptomatology (p = 0.0490), showed more elevated levels of CRP (p = 0.0245) and IL-6 (p < 0.0001) and lower levels of HDL (p = 0.0008) and 25-OHD (p = 0.0299). A stronger, significant correlation was observed between CRP and severity (rho = 0.791 vs. 0.433 in GP), and an inverse stronger significant one was observed between HDL and severity (rho = -0.850 vs. -0.734 in GP) in the Roma patients. The male sex continues to be an important risk factor for ICU admission (OR = 2.379) and death (OR = 1.975), while heavy smoking was more important in relation to ICU admission (OR = 1.768). Although the Roma ethnicity was 1.454 times more at risk of ICU admission than the GP, this did not prove statistically significant (p = 0.0751). CRP was the most important predictive factor in regards to admission to the ICU for both Roma (OR = 1.381) and the GP (OR = 1.110) and in regards to death (OR = 1.154 for Roma, OR = 1.104 for GP). A protective effect of normal values of HDL and 25-OHD was observed in the GP for both ICU admission (OR = 0.947, 0.853, respectively) and death (OR = 0.920, 0.921, respectively), while for the Roma group, normal 25-OHD values were only considered protective in regards to death (OR = 0.703). Cutoff values for ICU admission were 28.98 mg/L for Roma and 29.03 mg/L for GP patients, with high specificity for both groups (over 95). CONCLUSIONS Higher rates of ICU admissions, severe symptomatology, and distinct laboratory biomarker profiles among Roma patients emphasize the critical importance of personalized care strategies and targeted interventions to mitigate the disproportionate burden of COVID-19 on vulnerable communities. CRP values at admission have had a clear impact as a risk assessment biomarker for Roma patients, while the significance of IL-6, HDL, and 25-OHD should also not be overlooked in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ionut Dragos Capraru
- Department of Epidemiology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Catalin Marian
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Center for Complex Networks Science, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Dan Dumitru Vulcanescu
- Department of Microbiology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Multidisciplinary Research Center on Antimicrobial Resistance (MULTI-REZ), Microbiology Department, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Sonia Tanasescu
- Department of Pediatrics, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Tiberiu Liviu Dragomir
- Medical Semiology II Discipline, Internal Medicine Department, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Teodora Daniela Marti
- Department of Medicine, “Vasile Goldis” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 310414 Arad, Romania;
- Department of Microbiology, Emergency County Hospital, 310037 Arad, Romania
| | - Casiana Boru
- Department of Medicine, “Vasile Goldis” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 310414 Arad, Romania;
| | - Cecilia Roberta Avram
- Department of Residential Training and Post-University Courses, “Vasile Goldis” Western University, 310414 Arad, Romania;
| | - Monica Susan
- Centre for Preventive Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Cristian Sebastian Vlad
- Discipline of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
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Enyew HD, Hailu AB, Mereta ST. Effect of a chimney-fitted improved stove on pregnancy outcomes in Northwest Ethiopia: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:192. [PMID: 38475748 PMCID: PMC10936082 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-024-06363-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to household air pollution during pregnancy has been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Improved stove was implemented in Ethiopia to reduce this exposure and related health problems. However, the effects of improved stove interventions on pregnancy outcomes remains uncertain. METHOD Individually randomized stove replacement trial was conducted among 422 households in six low-income rural kebeles of Northwestern Ethiopia. Pregnant women without known health conditions were recruited at ≤ 24 weeks gestation and randomized to an intervention or control group with a 1:1 ratio. A baseline survey was collected and a balance test was done. Two-sided independent samples t-test for continuous outcomes and chi-square for categorical variables were used to compare the effect of the intervention between the groups. Mean differences with 95% CIs were calculated and a p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULT In this study, the mean birth weight was 3065 g (SD = 453) among the intervention group and not statistically different from 2995 g (SD = 541) of control group. After adjusting for covariates, infants born from intervention group weighed 55 g more [95% CI: - 43 to 170) than infants born from the control group, but the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.274). The respective percentages for low birth weight were 8% and 10.3% for intervention and control groups respectively (P = 0.346). However, the average gestational age at delivery was higher among improved stove users (38 weeks (SD = 8.2) compared to control groups 36.5 weeks (SD = 9.6) with statistically significant difference at 0.91 weeks (95% CI: 0.52 to 1.30 weeks, p < 0.001). The corresponding difference in risk ratio for preterm birth is 0.94 (95% CI:0.92 to 0.97; p < 0.001). The percentages for maternal complications, stillbirth, and miscarriage in the intervention group were not statistically different from the control group. CONCLUSIONS While the increase in average birth weight among babies born to mothers using improved stoves was not statistically significant, babies had a longer gestational age on average, offering valuable health benefits. However, the study didn't find a significant impact on other pregnancy outcomes like stillbirth, miscarriage, or maternal complications. TRIAL REGISTRATION The study was registered at the Pan African Clinical Trial Registry website under the code PACTR202111534227089, ( https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/ (Identifier). The first trial registration date was (11/11/2021).
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Affiliation(s)
- Habtamu Demelash Enyew
- College of Health Sciences, Department of Public Health, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia.
- Institution of Health, Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia.
| | - Abebe Beyene Hailu
- Institution of Health, Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Seid Tiku Mereta
- Institution of Health, Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
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183
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Upadhyay S, Jones J. Patient-provider communication quality: Socioeconomic disparities in smoking outcomes. Tob Prev Cessat 2024; 10:TPC-10-14. [PMID: 38469412 PMCID: PMC10926686 DOI: 10.18332/tpc/184050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patient-provider communication quality is instrumental for healthy outcomes in patients. The objective of this study is to examine the relationships between patient-provider communication quality and participant characteristics, perception of e-cigarette harmfulness, and smoking outcomes. METHODS A pooled cross-sectional design was used on secondary data obtained from the Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) 5 from Cycle 1 through Cycle 4, from 2017-2022. Our final sample contained 3511 observations. Our outcome variable was the perception of electronic cigarette smoking status. The independent variable was patient-provider communication quality (PPCQ), measured from a series of questions with responses on a 4-item Likert scale (always, usually, sometimes, never). Demographic variables such as marital status, health insurance status, occupation status, and health-related variables were used as participant characteristics. Ordinal logistic regression models were used to examine the above relationships. RESULTS Compared to males, females had lower odds of being in a higher category of perception of e-cigarette harmfulness compared to other categories of e-cigarette harmfulness (AOR=0.66; 95% CI: 0.57-0.76). Respondents who were non-Hispanic Black or Hispanic had lower odds of being in a higher category of perception of e-cigarettes compared to Whites (AOR=0.52; 95% CI: 0.49-0.78, and AOR=0.51; 95% CI: 0.41-0.65, respectively). Respondents who had higher education level compared to those with less than high school had lower odds (AOR=0.30; 95% CI: 0.17-0.51), and Hispanics compared to Whites had higher odds (AOR=1.59; 95% CI: 1.05-2.40), of being former smokers rather than current smokers. CONCLUSIONS Providers should invest in staff training and development to target the populations that need conversations regarding e-cigarette usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumya Upadhyay
- Healthcare Administration and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
| | - Jalen Jones
- Healthcare Administration and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
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Malani A, Aiyar J, Sant A, Kamran N, Mohanan M, Taneja S, Woda B, Zhao W, Acharya A. Comparing population-level humoral and cellular immunity to SARS-Cov-2 in Bangalore, India. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5758. [PMID: 38459035 PMCID: PMC10923858 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54922-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Two types of immunity, humoral and cellular, offer protection against COVID. Humoral protection, contributed by circulating neutralizing antibodies, can provide immediate protection but decays more quickly than cellular immunity and can lose effectiveness in the face of mutation and drift in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Therefore, population-level seroprevalence surveys used to estimate population-level immunity may underestimate the degree to which a population is protected against COVID. In early 2021, before India began its vaccination campaign, we tested for humoral and cellular immunity to SARS-Cov-2 in representative samples of slum and non-slum populations in Bangalore, India. We found that 29.7% of samples (unweighted) had IgG antibodies to the spike protein and 15.5% had neutralizing antibodies, but at up to 46% showed evidence of cellular immunity. We also find that prevalence of cellular immunity is significantly higher in slums than in non-slums. These findings suggest (1) that a significantly larger proportion of the population in Bangalore, India, had cellular immunity to SARS-CoV-2 than had humoral immunity, as measured by serological surveys, and (2) that low socio-economic status communities display higher frequency of cellular immunity, likely because of greater exposure to infection due to population density.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andrea Sant
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | | | - Manoj Mohanan
- Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Saloni Taneja
- University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Bartek Woda
- University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Amazon, Chicago, IL, USA
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Islam MA, Nahar MT, Siddiquee T, Toma AS, Hoque F, Hossain MZ. Prevalence and determinants of utilizing skilled birth attendance during home delivery of pregnant women in India: Evidence from the Indian Demographic and Health Survey 2015-16. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0295389. [PMID: 38452023 PMCID: PMC10919655 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Utilization of skilled birth attendance during home delivery of pregnant women is proven to reduce complications during and after childbirth. Though the utilization of skilled birth attendance (SBA) during home delivery has increased significantly in recent times, the rate of utilizing skilled birth attendance is still low in several regions across India. The objective of this study is to analyze the prevalence and to identify the determinants of the utilization of skilled birth attendance during home delivery of pregnant women in India. METHODS To conduct this study, data and information from the Indian Demographic and Health Survey 2015-16 have been utilized. The sample size for this study is a weighted sample of 41,171 women. The sample consisted of women who had given a live birth in the three years preceding the survey. For women with more than one child, only the first live birth was considered. The binary logistic regression model and the log-binary logistic regression analysis have been applied as the adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals for identifying the determinants of home-based skilled birth attendance during delivery. That allows us to select the most appropriate model for our study objective by ensuring that the determinants of skilled birth attendance for home delivery are accurately assessed based on the characteristics of the data. RESULTS The analyses show that only 18.8% of women had utilized skilled birth attendance during delivery. Women residing in urban areas are more likely to utilize skilled birth attendance during home delivery (AOR: 1.14; 95% CI: 1.08-1.20). Women having higher education levels are associated with increased use of SBA during home delivery (AOR: 1.15; 95% CI: 1.04-1.28). Exposure to media is associated with increased utilization of SBA (AOR: 1.17; 95% CI: 1.11-1.23). Overweight women are also more likely to avail the SBA during home delivery (AOR: 1.11; 95% CI: 1.03-1.19). Women belonging to affluent households have higher odds of utilizing skilled birth attendance (AOR: 1.41; 95% CI: 1.33-1.49). Having 3+ tetanus injections is associated with the utilization of SBA (AOR: 1.56; 95% CI: 1.43-1.69). Women having 4+ antenatal care visits were more likely to utilize SBA (AOR: 1.81; 95% CI: 1.71-1.92). Women belonging to the Hindu religion were 1.12 times more likely to utilize SBA (AOR: 1.12; 95% CI: 1.07-1.18). Women with 1 to 3 birth orders were 1.40 times more likely to utilize skilled birth attendance during home delivery (AOR: 1.40; 95% CI: 1.30-1.51). CONCLUSION The percentage of women utilizing skilled birth attendance during home delivery is still very low which is a matter of serious concern. Several factors have been found to be associated with the utilization of SBA during home delivery in India. As skilled birth attendance has significant positive health outcomes for pregnant women and newborns, efforts to increase the rate of SBA utilization during home delivery should be undertaken.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Akhtarul Islam
- Statistics Discipline, Science, Engineering & Technology School, Khulna University, Khulna, Bangladesh
| | - Mst. Tanmin Nahar
- Statistics Discipline, Science, Engineering & Technology School, Khulna University, Khulna, Bangladesh
| | - Tanjim Siddiquee
- Statistics Discipline, Science, Engineering & Technology School, Khulna University, Khulna, Bangladesh
| | - Afrina Sultana Toma
- Statistics Discipline, Science, Engineering & Technology School, Khulna University, Khulna, Bangladesh
| | - Farhana Hoque
- Development Studies Discipline, Social Science School, Khulna University, Khulna, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Zobayer Hossain
- Development Studies Discipline, Social Science School, Khulna University, Khulna, Bangladesh
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Roure S, Vallès X, Pérez-Quílez O, López-Muñoz I, Chamorro A, Abad E, Valerio L, Soldevila L, España S, Hegazy AHA, Fernández-Rivas G, Gorriz E, Herena D, Oliveira M, Miralles MC, Conde C, Montero-Alia JJ, Fernández-Pedregal E, Miranda-Sánchez J, Llibre JM, Isnard M, Bonet JM, Estrada O, Prat N, Clotet B. Male genitourinary schistosomiasis-related symptoms among long-term Western African migrants in Spain: a prospective population-based screening study. Infect Dis Poverty 2024; 13:23. [PMID: 38449032 PMCID: PMC10919049 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-024-01190-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosomiasis is highly endemic in sub-Saharan Africa and frequently imported to Europe. Male urogenital manifestations are often neglected. We aimed to ascertain the prevalence of genitourinary clinical signs and symptoms among long-term African migrants in a non-endemic European country using a serology test. METHODS We carried out a prospective, community-based cross-sectional study of adult male migrants from sub-Saharan Africa living in Spain. Schistosoma serology tests and microscopic urine examinations were carried out, and clinical data were obtained from an electronic medical record search and a structured questionnaire. RESULTS We included 388 adult males, mean age 43.5 years [Standard Deviation (SD) = 12.0, range: 18-76]. The median time since migration to the European Union was 17 [Interquartile range (IQR): 11-21] years. The most frequent country of origin was Senegal (N = 179, 46.1%). Of the 338, 147 (37.6%) tested positive for Schistosoma. Parasite eggs were present in the urine of only 1.3%. Nine genitourinary clinical items were significantly associated with positive Schistosoma serology results: pelvic pain (45.2%; OR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.0-2.4), pain on ejaculation (14.5%; OR = 1.85, 95% CI: 1.0-3.5), dyspareunia (12.4%; OR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.2-5.2), erectile dysfunction (9.5%; OR = 3.10, 95% CI: 1.3-7.6), self-reported episodes of infertility (32.1%; OR = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.0-2.8), haematuria (55.2%; OR = 2.37, 95% CI: 1.5-3.6), dysuria (52.1%; OR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.3-3.1), undiagnosed syndromic STIs (5.4%), and orchitis (20.7%; OR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.0-3.1). Clinical signs tended to cluster. CONCLUSIONS Urogenital clinical signs and symptoms are prevalent among male African long-term migrants with a positive Schistosoma serology results. Genital involvement can be frequent even among those with long periods of non-residence in their sub-Saharan African countries of origin. Further research is needed to develop diagnostic tools and validate therapeutic approaches to chronic schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sílvia Roure
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain.
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain.
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain.
| | - Xavier Vallès
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Olga Pérez-Quílez
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Israel López-Muñoz
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Anna Chamorro
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Elena Abad
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Lluís Valerio
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Laura Soldevila
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Sergio España
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Alaa H A Hegazy
- Microbiology Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Asyut, El Fateh, Assiut Governorate, 71515, Egypt
| | - Gema Fernández-Rivas
- Microbiology Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Ester Gorriz
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Dolores Herena
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Mário Oliveira
- Department of Urology, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Maria Carme Miralles
- Canovelles Primary Health Care Unit, Barcelona North Metropolitan Health Directorate, Catalan Institute for Health, C/ Indústria 23, 08420, Canovelles, Spain
| | - Carmen Conde
- Canovelles Primary Health Care Unit, Barcelona North Metropolitan Health Directorate, Catalan Institute for Health, C/ Indústria 23, 08420, Canovelles, Spain
| | - Juan José Montero-Alia
- Primary Health Care Unit Mataró-3 (Rocafonda-Palau), Barcelona North Metropolitan Health Directorate, Catalan Institute for Health, Camí Ral el Ravalet 208, Mataró, 08302, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elia Fernández-Pedregal
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Jose Miranda-Sánchez
- Barcelona North Metropolitan Primary Care Directorate, Catalan Institute for Health, Ctra. de Barcelona 473, Sabadell, 08204, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep M Llibre
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Mar Isnard
- Barcelona North Metropolitan Primary Care Directorate, Catalan Institute for Health, Ctra. de Barcelona 473, Sabadell, 08204, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Maria Bonet
- Barcelona North Metropolitan Primary Care Directorate, Catalan Institute for Health, Ctra. de Barcelona 473, Sabadell, 08204, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Oriol Estrada
- Directorate for Innovation and Interdisciplinary Cooperation, Barcelona North Metropolitan Health Directorate, Catalan Institute for Health, C/ Can Ruti S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Núria Prat
- Barcelona North Metropolitan Primary Care Directorate, Catalan Institute for Health, Ctra. de Barcelona 473, Sabadell, 08204, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bonaventura Clotet
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- IrsiCaixa-AIDS Research Institute, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Infectious Diseases Directorate, Barcelona North Metropolitan Health Directorate, Catalan Institute for Health, C/ Can Ruti S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
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Kang H, Lee JK, Lee EW, Toh C. The Roles of Trust in Government and Sense of Community in the COVID-19 Contact Tracing Privacy Calculus: Mixed Method Study Using a 2-Wave Survey and In-Depth Interviews. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2024; 12:e48986. [PMID: 38451602 PMCID: PMC10958335 DOI: 10.2196/48986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Contact tracing technology has been adopted in many countries to aid in identifying, evaluating, and handling individuals who have had contact with those infected with COVID-19. Singapore was among the countries that actively implemented the government-led contact tracing program known as TraceTogether. Despite the benefits the contact tracing program could provide to individuals and the community, privacy issues were a significant barrier to individuals' acceptance of the program. OBJECTIVE Building on the privacy calculus model, this study investigates how the perceptions of the 2 key groups (ie, government and community members) involved in the digital contact tracing factor into individuals' privacy calculus of digital contact tracing. METHODS Using a mixed method approach, we conducted (1) a 2-wave survey (n=674) and (2) in-depth interviews (n=12) with TraceTogether users in Singapore. Using structural equation modeling, this study investigated how trust in the government and the sense of community exhibited by individuals during the early stage of implementation (time 1) predicted privacy concerns, perceived benefits, and future use intentions, measured after the program was fully implemented (time 2). Expanding on the survey results, this study conducted one-on-one interviews to gain in-depth insights into the privacy considerations involved in digital contact tracing. RESULTS The results from the survey showed that trust in the government increased perceived benefits while decreasing privacy concerns regarding the use of TraceTogether. Furthermore, individuals who felt a connection to community members by participating in the program (ie, the sense of community) were more inclined to believe in its benefits. The sense of community also played a moderating role in the influence of government trust on perceived benefits. Follow-up in-depth interviews highlighted that having a sense of control over information and transparency in the government's data management were crucial factors in privacy considerations. The interviews also highlighted surveillance as the most prevalent aspect of privacy concerns regarding TraceTogether use. In addition, our findings revealed that trust in the government, particularly the perceived transparency of government actions, was most strongly associated with concerns regarding the secondary use of data. CONCLUSIONS Using a mixed method approach involving a 2-wave survey and in-depth interview data, we expanded our understanding of privacy decisions and the privacy calculus in the context of digital contact tracing. The opposite influences of privacy concerns and perceived benefit on use intention suggest that the privacy calculus in TraceTogether might be viewed as a rational process of weighing between privacy risks and use benefits to make an uptake decision. However, our study demonstrated that existing perceptions toward the provider and the government in the contact tracing context, as well as the perception of the community triggered by TraceTogether use, may bias user appraisals of privacy risks and the benefits of contact tracing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunjin Kang
- Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jeong Kyu Lee
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States
| | - Edmund Wj Lee
- Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Cindy Toh
- Department of Anthropology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
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188
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Muneer A, Xie L, Xie X, Zhang F, Wrobel JA, Xiong Y, Yu X, Wang C, Gheorghe C, Wu P, Song J, Ming GL, Jin J, Song H, Shi PY, Chen X. Targeting G9a translational mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis for multifaceted therapeutics of COVID-19 and its sequalae. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.04.583415. [PMID: 38496599 PMCID: PMC10942352 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.04.583415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
By largely unknown mechanism(s), SARS-CoV-2 hijacks the host translation apparatus to promote COVID-19 pathogenesis. We report that the histone methyltransferase G9a noncanonically regulates viral hijacking of the translation machinery to bring about COVID-19 symptoms of hyperinflammation, lymphopenia, and blood coagulation. Chemoproteomic analysis of COVID-19 patient peripheral mononuclear blood cells (PBMC) identified enhanced interactions between SARS-CoV-2-upregulated G9a and distinct translation regulators, particularly the N 6 -methyladenosine (m 6 A) RNA methylase METTL3. These interactions with translation regulators implicated G9a in translational regulation of COVID-19. Inhibition of G9a activity suppressed SARS-CoV-2 replication in human alveolar epithelial cells. Accordingly, multi-omics analysis of the same alveolar cells identified SARS-CoV-2-induced changes at the transcriptional, m 6 A-epitranscriptional, translational, and post-translational (phosphorylation or secretion) levels that were reversed by inhibitor treatment. As suggested by the aforesaid chemoproteomic analysis, these multi-omics-correlated changes revealed a G9a-regulated translational mechanism of COVID-19 pathogenesis in which G9a directs translation of viral and host proteins associated with SARS-CoV-2 replication and with dysregulation of host response. Comparison of proteomic analyses of G9a inhibitor-treated, SARS-CoV-2 infected cells, or ex vivo culture of patient PBMCs, with COVID-19 patient data revealed that G9a inhibition reversed the patient proteomic landscape that correlated with COVID-19 pathology/symptoms. These data also indicated that the G9a-regulated, inhibitor-reversed, translational mechanism outperformed G9a-transcriptional suppression to ultimately determine COVID-19 pathogenesis and to define the inhibitor action, from which biomarkers of serve symptom vulnerability were mechanistically derived. This cell line-to-patient conservation of G9a-translated, COVID-19 proteome suggests that G9a inhibitors can be used to treat patients with COVID-19, particularly patients with long-lasting COVID-19 sequelae.
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Honda C, Yamamoto-Takiguchi N. Association between obtaining injury prevention information and maternal and child health services during COVID-19. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:275. [PMID: 38443936 PMCID: PMC10913221 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10794-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease 2019 disrupted the delivery of public maternal and child health services to caregivers of preschool children, leading to decreased opportunities for injury prevention education. We aim to 1) explore the timing, content, and methods of providing injury prevention information desired by pregnant women and mothers and 2) identify mothers who experienced difficulty in obtaining injury prevention information owing to reduced maternal and child health services. METHODS From March 24 to 29, 2022, we conducted a population-based cross-sectional study and web-based survey. Of the registered monitors of the internet research company Rakuten Insight, 675 mothers raising their first child aged 0-2 during the COVID-19 period (February 2020 to March 2022) were included in the analysis. RESULTS Over half of the mothers wanted injury prevention information throughout their pregnancy. They preferred receiving information through traditional face-to-face services provided by local governments, such as antenatal classes or checkups. However, 34.1% of mothers said they did not obtain the information they needed; this was particularly true of unemployed mothers, had children aged 0-1, and had children with illnesses requiring hospital visits. CONCLUSIONS Mothers who could not obtain injury prevention information were originally disadvantaged mothers concerning access to information. The decrease in maternal and child health services may have widened this information gap. These findings can inform recommendations for caregivers, particularly those susceptible to information gaps during emergencies, and offer insights into future injury prevention education strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chikako Honda
- Department of Community Health Nursing, Division of Health Sciences and Nursing, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
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190
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Daliri DB, Aninanya GA, Laari TT, Abagye N, Dei-Asamoa R, Afaya A. Exploring the barriers to mental health service utilization in the Bolgatanga Municipality: the perspectives of family caregivers, service providers, and mental health administrators. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:278. [PMID: 38443928 PMCID: PMC10916073 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10567-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental health service utilization remains a challenge in developing countries, with numerous barriers affecting access to care. Albeit data suggest poor utilization of mental health services in the Bolgatanga Municipality in Ghana, no studies have explored the barriers to the utilization of mental health services. Therefore, this study explored the perspectives of family caregivers, service providers, and mental health service administrators on the barriers to mental health service utilization in the Bolgatanga Municipality, Ghana. METHODS A qualitative descriptive design was employed for the study. Nineteen participants were purposively sampled from two hospitals including fifteen family caregivers, two service providers, and two mental health administrators. Data were collected through individual in-depth interviews using a semi-structured interview guide. Audio-recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematically analyzed using NVivo 12 pro software. RESULTS Five main themes emerged including individual-level barriers, interpersonal barriers, community-level barriers, organizational-level barriers, and policy-level barriers. At the individual level, lack of insight, poor treatment compliance, and financial challenges were prominent barriers. Interpersonal barriers included family pressure influenced by cultural and spiritual beliefs. At the community level, stigma and mental health illiteracy were identified as significant barriers. At the organizational level, barriers encompassed inadequate staffing, limited space, and staff attitudes. Policy-level barriers included the neglect of mental health in policies and the non-inclusion of mental health services in the National Health Insurance Scheme. CONCLUSION This study highlights the complexity of barriers to mental health service utilization and underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to address them. Collaborative efforts involving healthcare providers, policymakers, communities, and families are essential to mitigate these barriers. It is imperative to consider these barriers when developing strategies to improve the utilization of mental health services in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Bomansang Daliri
- Presbyterian Psychiatric Hospital, Bolgatanga, Ghana
- Department of Global and International Health, School of Public Health, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana
| | - Gifty Apiung Aninanya
- Department of Health Services Policy Planning Management and Economics, School of Public Health, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana
| | | | - Nancy Abagye
- Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Richard Dei-Asamoa
- Department of Psychiatry, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | - Agani Afaya
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana.
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191
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Im HB, Hwang JH, Choi D, Choi SJ, Han D. Patient-physician communication on herbal medicine use during pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Glob Health 2024; 9:e013412. [PMID: 38448037 PMCID: PMC10916170 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-013412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lack of transparent communication between patients and physicians regarding the use of herbal medicine (HM) presents a major public health challenge, as inappropriate HM use poses health risks. Considering the widespread use of HM and the risk of adverse events, it is crucial for pregnant women to openly discuss their HM use with healthcare providers. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aims to estimate the pooled prevalence of pregnant women's HM use and disclosure to healthcare providers and to examine the relationship between HM disclosure and various maternal and child health (MCH) measures. METHODS A systematic search of five databases was conducted for cross-sectional studies on HM use during pregnancy published from 2000 to 2023. Data extraction followed a standardised approach, and Stata V.16.0 was used for data analysis. Also, Spearman's correlation coefficient was calculated to examine the association between use and disclosure of HM and various MCH indicators. RESULTS This review included 111 studies across 51 countries on the use of HM among pregnant women. Our findings showed that 34.4% of women used HM during pregnancy, driven by the perception that HM is presumably safer and more natural than conventional medical therapies. However, only 27.9% of the HM users disclosed their use to healthcare providers because they considered HM as harmless and were not prompted by the healthcare providers to discuss their self-care practices. Furthermore, a significant correlation was observed between HM disclosure and improved MCH outcomes. CONCLUSION Inadequate communication between pregnant women and physicians on HM use highlights a deficiency in the quality of care that may be associated with unfavourable maternal outcomes. Thus, physician engagement in effective and unbiased communication about HM during antenatal care, along with evidence-based guidance on HM use, can help mitigate the potential risks associated with inappropriate HM use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyea Bin Im
- Department of Global Health and Development, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Health Services Management, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung Hye Hwang
- Institute of Health Services Management, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dain Choi
- Department of Global Health and Development, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Health Services Management, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Soo Jeung Choi
- Department of Global Health and Development, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Health Services Management, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dongwoon Han
- Department of Global Health and Development, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
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192
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Ahn-Horst RY, Bourgeois FT. Mental Health-Related Outpatient Visits Among Adolescents and Young Adults, 2006-2019. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e241468. [PMID: 38451523 PMCID: PMC10921253 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.1468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Concerns over the mental health of young people have been increasing over the past decade, especially with the rise in mental health burden seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. Examining trends in mental health-related outpatient visits provides critical information to elucidate contributing factors, identify vulnerable populations, and inform strategies to address the mental health crisis. Objective To examine characteristics and trends in mental health-related outpatient visits and psychotropic medication use among US adolescents and young adults. Design, Setting, and Participants A retrospective cross-sectional analysis of nationally representative data from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, an annual probability sample survey, was conducted from January 2006 to December 2019. Participants included adolescents (age 12-17 years) and young adults (age 18-24 years) with office-based outpatient visits in the US. Data were analyzed from March 1, 2023, to September 15, 2023. Main Outcomes and Measures Mental health-related outpatient visits were identified based on established sets of diagnostic codes for psychiatric disorders. Temporal trends in the annual proportion of mental health-related outpatient visits were assessed, including visits associated with use of psychotropic medications. Analyses were stratified by age and sex. Results From 2006 to 2019, there were an estimated 1.1 billion outpatient visits by adolescents and young adults, of which 145.0 million (13.1%) were associated with a mental health condition (mean [SD] age, 18.4 [3.5] years; 74.0 million females [51.0%]). Mental health-related diagnoses were more prevalent among visits by male (16.8%) compared with female (10.9%) patients (P < .001). This difference was most pronounced among young adults, with 20.1% of visits associated with a psychiatric diagnosis among males vs 10.1% among females (P < .001). The proportion of mental health-related visits nearly doubled, from 8.9% in 2006 to 16.9% in 2019 (P < .001). Among all outpatient visits, 17.2% were associated with the prescription of at least 1 psychotropic medication, with significant increases from 12.8% to 22.4% by 2019 (P < .001). Conclusions and Relevance In this cross-sectional study, there were substantial increases in mental health-related outpatient visits and use of psychotropic medications, with greater overall burden among male patients. These findings provide a baseline for understanding post-pandemic shifts and suggest that current treatment and prevention strategies will need to address preexisting psychiatric needs in addition to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Y. Ahn-Horst
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
- Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Florence T. Bourgeois
- Computational Health Informatics Program, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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193
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Koly KN, Saba J, Christopher E, Hossain ANN, Akter T, Rahman Z, Ahmed HU, Eaton J. Assessment of the feasibility of a community-based mental health training programme for persons with disabilities by non-specialists from different stakeholders' perspectives in Bangladesh. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:270. [PMID: 38433239 PMCID: PMC10910748 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10742-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Bangladesh is a developing country where 11% of the population has at least one disability, but no community-level mental health service is available. There is limited evidence of the burden of mental health issues and health-seeking behaviour among this population. This study assessed the feasibility of a training intervention for persons with disabilities, where peer support providers provided community-based disability-inclusive mental health services. METHODS Four stakeholder groups participated in this qualitative study: peer responders (trained persons with disabilities), trainers, representatives of organisations of persons with disabilities and disability-specific organisations, and officials of international and national non-governmental organisations. Two types of qualitative interviews were used to collect data, and thematic analysis techniques were utilised. RESULT Stakeholders perceived the peer responder training programme as acceptable for persons with disabilities to develop themselves as peer support providers, with potential benefits including increased mental health literacy, ensuring accessible mental health services, and improving the well-being of persons with disabilities. Potential challenges included receiving training and delivering services. Increased training duration, more fieldwork, supervision opportunities, and refresher training were recommended to mitigate training challenges. Financial support and formal community recognition were deemed necessary for training delivery. CONCLUSION The peer responder training programme was feasible to ensure accessible mental health services for persons with disabilities, build a workforce to screen for mental health conditions, and provide appropriate referrals. A multi-sectoral collaboration of government and non-governmental institutions is recommended to policy advocates to expand the peer responder training programme in the mainstream mental healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamrun Nahar Koly
- Health System and Population Studies Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Mohakhali, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh.
| | - Jobaida Saba
- Health System and Population Studies Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Mohakhali, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Enryka Christopher
- Trauma and Community Resilience Center, Boston Children's Hospital & Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Anan Nisat Nabela Hossain
- Health System and Population Studies Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Mohakhali, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Taslima Akter
- Centre for Disability in Development, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Zakia Rahman
- CBM Bangladesh Country Office (CBMBCO), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Julian Eaton
- Centre for Global Mental Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- CBM Global Disability and Inclusion, Laudenbach, Germany
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Loo TM, Altman M, Bravata DM, Whaley C. Medical Spending Among US Households With Children With a Mental Health Condition Between 2017 and 2021. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e241860. [PMID: 38466309 PMCID: PMC10928497 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.1860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This cross-sectional study examines US household medical spending for children with a mental health condition between 2017 and 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Myra Altman
- Brightline, Palo Alto, California
- Stanford University Clinical Excellence Research Center, Palo Alto, California
| | - Dena M. Bravata
- Brightline, Palo Alto, California
- Stanford University Center for Primary Care and Outcomes Research, Palo Alto, California
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195
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Alasmari A, Alhejaili A, Alharbi H, Alzahrani M, Zughaibi T. Challenges and insights: Methamphetamine analysis in post-mortem putrefied human tissues in a hot climate. Saudi Pharm J 2024; 32:101990. [PMID: 38384477 PMCID: PMC10879005 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2024.101990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The production and distribution of methamphetamine (meth) is often associated with illegal and clandestine laboratories, posing significant challenges for law enforcement and public health efforts. Global concern is growing over meth-related fatalities, as its high potential for abuse and detrimental impact on health make it an important issue in the realm of substance abuse and addiction. This concern has notably increased in Saudi Arabia, where the hot climate adds complexity to the analysis due to challenges posed by putrefaction. There is still an urgent need to enhance the screening capabilities of many toxicology laboratories to determine the cause of death, whether it be due to drug use or natural causes. Aim This research aimed to investigate meth concentrations in post-mortem putrefied human solid tissues in a hot climate and comparing meth metabolite concentrations in cases where signs of putrefaction were observed versus those with no signs of putrefaction. The objective is to assist criminal investigations by analyzing meth and its metabolite concentrations. Methods This retrospective cohort study involved postmortem samples from human subjects during autopsies conducted between 2016 and 2022. It focused on analyzing meth and its metabolite concentrations using LC-MS/MS analysis. Data on demographics, medical history, age, location, putrefaction, and other drug use were retrieved from medical records. Results Out of the 27 reported samples of meth and its metabolite amphetamine in both putrefied and non-putrefied biological fluids and tissues, only 8 (30%) exhibited signs of putrefaction between 2016 and 2022. Despite decomposition, detectable concentrations of meth and amphetamine were sufficient to determine the cause of death and the source of amphetamines. Conclusion This study found no significant difference in concentrations between putrefied and non-putrefied cases, underscoring the importance of multiple sample testing during autopsy for accurate interpretation. Each case is unique and must be considered individually.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Alasmari
- Special Toxicological Analysis Unit, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine DPLM, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, P.O. Box 3354, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amani Alhejaili
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan Alharbi
- Poison Control and Forensic Chemistry Center, Ministry of Health, Jeddah 21176, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Torki Zughaibi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
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Xavier JC, McDermid J, Buxton J, Henderson I, Streukens A, Lamb J, Greer A. People who use drugs' prioritization of regulation amid decriminalization reforms in British Columbia, Canada: A qualitative study. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 125:104354. [PMID: 38402802 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND North America and the province of British Columbia (BC), Canada, is experiencing an unprecedented number of overdose deaths. In BC, overdose has become the leading cause of death for people between the ages of 10-59 years old. In January 2023, BC decriminalized personal possession of a number of illegal substances with one aim being to address overdose deaths through stigma reduction and promoting access to substance use services. METHODS We conducted a qualitative study to understand people who use drugs' (PWUD) perceptions of the new decriminalization policy, immediately prior to its' implementation (October-December 2022). To contextualize decriminalization within broader drug policy, we also asked PWUD what they perceived as the priority issues drug policy ought to address and the necessary solutions. Our final sample included 38 participants who used illegal drugs in the past month. RESULTS We identified four themes: 1) The illicit drug supply as the main driver of drug toxicity deaths 2) Concerns about the impact of decriminalization on drug toxicity deaths 3) Views towards decriminalization as a policy response in the context of the drug toxicity crisis 4) Regulation as a symbol of hope for reducing drug toxicity deaths. CONCLUSION From our data it became clear that many anticipated that decriminalization would have minimal or no impact on the overdose crisis. Regulation was perceived as the necessary policy approach for effectively and candidly addressing the drivers of the ongoing overdose crisis. These findings are important as jurisdictions consider different approaches to moving away from prohibition-based drug policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica C Xavier
- School of Criminology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, British Columbia, V5A 1S6, Canada; British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655W 12th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Jennifer McDermid
- School of Criminology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, British Columbia, V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Jane Buxton
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 E Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z8, Canada
| | - Iesha Henderson
- Professionals for the Ethical Engagement of Peers (PEEP), British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655W 12th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Amber Streukens
- Professionals for the Ethical Engagement of Peers (PEEP), British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655W 12th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Jessica Lamb
- Professionals for the Ethical Engagement of Peers (PEEP), British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655W 12th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Alissa Greer
- School of Criminology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, British Columbia, V5A 1S6, Canada.
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Almubarak SH, Almass AA, Dahlawi SM, AlMuhanna DS. Waste management in primary healthcare centers in Saudi Arabia: a policy analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2024; 34:1421-1430. [PMID: 37204044 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2023.2214508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Medical waste poses high risks to healthcare workers, patients, the environment, and public health. Governments have adopted measures and enacted policies to ensure proper medical waste management. Through a retrospective policy analysis, we analyzed the waste management policy for primary healthcare centers in Saudi Arabia. By adopting Walt and Gilson's health policy analysis framework, we conducted a thematic analysis of documents to analyze the policy context, process, actors, and content. Contextual factors including accreditation, the Saudi Vision-2030 and the healthcare transformation plan contributed to the development of the policy. The policy was adapted from a regional policy that was enacted about 15 years ago. The policy content overlooked components relevant to the specific context of primary healthcare centers. Lack of training and cooperation among stakeholders challenged successful implementation and thus compliance with the policy. Respective stakeholders must take further actions to ensure implementation fidelity and sustainability of the policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sama'a Hamed Almubarak
- Department of Health Information Management and Technology, College of Public Health, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Saad M Dahlawi
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dhoha Saleh AlMuhanna
- Deanship of Quality and Academic Accreditation, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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Jubayer F, Kayshar S, Arifin S, Parven A, Khan SI, Meftaul IM. Nutritional health of the Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh: Conceptualizing a multilevel action framework focusing the COVID-19. Nutr Health 2024; 30:21-25. [PMID: 37041738 PMCID: PMC10186131 DOI: 10.1177/02601060231169372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
The Rohingya refugees are among the most vulnerable victims of COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh. In refugee camps, they frequently lack access to safe and nutritious foods, drinking water, and a healthy environment. Despite the fact that numerous national and international organizations are sincerely collaborating to meet their nutritional and medical needs, the pace of work has slowed due to COVID-19. Combating COVID-19 demands a robust immune system, which relies heavily on a nutritious diet. The development of strong immunity to protect Rohingya refugees, particularly children and women, through the provision of nutrient-dense foods is thus highly necessary. Consequently, the current commentary focused on the nutritional health status of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh during COVID-19. In addition, we provided a multilevel implementation framework that could assist stakeholders and policymakers in taking effective measures to recover their nutritional health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahad Jubayer
- Department of Food Engineering and
Technology, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet, Bangladesh
| | - Shahidullah Kayshar
- Department of Food Engineering and
Technology, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet, Bangladesh
| | - Shoaib Arifin
- Department of Agricultural Chemistry, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh
| | - Aney Parven
- Department of Agricultural Chemistry, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation
(GCER), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Sirajul Islam Khan
- Department of Agricultural Chemistry, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Islam Md Meftaul
- Department of Agricultural Chemistry, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation
(GCER), College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
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199
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R S, R A, P P. Root Cause Analysis of Gaps in Non-communicable Disease Monitoring in a Sub-district Hospital, Tamil Nadu: A Quality Improvement Initiative. Cureus 2024; 16:e57095. [PMID: 38681427 PMCID: PMC11053342 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.57095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) present a significant public health challenge globally, and India is deeply affected. With the largest population in the world, India struggles with a high burden of NCDs, encompassing cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory conditions. These ailments contribute substantially to morbidity and mortality, placing a strain on healthcare systems. Despite efforts through public health initiatives, NCD monitoring and management remain deficient, especially at grassroots levels. Methods At a sub-district hospital in Tamil Nadu, India, a quality improvement initiative targeted diabetes and hypertension, prevalent NCDs. Utilizing Fishbone analysis and process flow diagrams, we identified gaps in NCD monitoring. Employing the Plan-Do-Study-Act model and reorienting the patient flow, we enhanced NCD monitoring by optimizing patient health record maintenance within the hospital. Results Root cause analysis identified a lack of patient record protocols and patient loss of records as key hindrances in NCD monitoring. We revamped patient flow and implemented a robust record-keeping system, boosting access to patient health records. This initiative was embraced by healthcare providers, enhancing NCD management. Leveraging these records, we assessed control rates of diabetes and hypertension patients effectively. Conclusion The research underscores the importance of maintaining comprehensive patient health records in healthcare centers for enhancing NCD monitoring. These records serve as valuable tools for healthcare providers, aiding in the monitoring and treatment of patients with diabetes and hypertension. By leveraging these records, healthcare providers can achieve better disease control outcomes, thereby improving the overall management of NCDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stalin R
- Community Medicine, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai, IND
| | - Angusubalakshmi R
- Community Medicine, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai, IND
| | - Priya P
- Community Medicine, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai, IND
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200
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Hillier S, Lodge D, Nolan J, Yandell R, Chur-Hansen A, George S, Lynch E. Clinical research imperatives: principles and priorities from the perspective of Allied Health executives and managers. AUST HEALTH REV 2024; 48:207-217. [PMID: 38447201 DOI: 10.1071/ah23262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Objective It is widely understood that a key means of improving health systems and patient outcomes is through research - accessing, understanding, generating and applying research evidence-based practice. To promote more targeted and strategic research in Allied Health practice, this study sought to establish the principles, areas and priorities for clinical research as perceived by Allied Health leaders in the South Australian public health system. Methods The study used a mixed-methods design (full, sequential and equal model). Participants were recruited from theSouth Australian Department of Health and Wellbeing employment lists for Allied Health senior leaders. Consenting participants attended face-to-face focus groups; after an overview presentation, they discussed the principles for Allied Health research, followed by areas and priorities for research. Summaries of the responses were themed descriptively and circulated electronically so participants could confirm the research areas and ascribe priority ratings, clinical populations and services. Results A total of 28 people attended the stakeholder forum (5 online); 20 responded to the second-round electronic summary. Nine principles of research action were agreed. Fourteen research areas were identified and prioritised. There was a relatively consistent prioritisation of measuring Allied Health value, Allied Health workforce, hospital avoidance and closing the gap for Aboriginal health outcomes - whether the individuals were thinking about their own service or the state as a whole. Conclusions Allied Health leadership identified key principles and priorities for research to improve service delivery and patient outcomes. These priorities should generate further discussion and interest for novice and experienced researchers and leaders and can be used to inform granting and project plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Hillier
- Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Duncan Lodge
- Department of Health and Wellbeing, SA Health and Southern Adelaide Local Health Network, SA Health, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Jo Nolan
- Allied and Scientific Health Office, SA Health and Southern Adelaide Local Health Network, SA Health, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Rosalie Yandell
- Department of Health and Wellbeing, SA Health and Southern Adelaide Local Health Network, SA Health, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | | - Stacey George
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Lynch
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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