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Bakdash T, Marsh C. Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs Regarding the COVID-19 Pandemic Among Women in Kansas. J Community Health 2021; 46:1148-1154. [PMID: 33988776 PMCID: PMC8120490 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-021-00994-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic brought forward the challenge of dispersing accurate medical information to the public rapidly. Credible and non-credible sources may impact public reactions to the virus. The purpose of this study is to assess those reactions of women located in or near Kansas. A survey was conducted in July 2020 with questions on knowledge of COVID-19, attitudes and behaviors towards COVID-19, and primary sources of information. 305 survey respondents met criteria for further analysis, and descriptive statistical analyses were applied. Participants were generally knowledgeable of the pandemic, with a mean knowledge score of 11.40 out of 13 (SD 1.3). The attitude statement with the highest rate of agreement was that “social distancing is an effective way of controlling COVID-19 spread” (n = 265, 86.9%) and that with the highest rate of disagreement was, “I am not worried about my friends’ and family members health” (n = 253, 83.0%). The most-implemented behaviors as indicated by participants were avoiding contact with sick individuals and washing hands with soap and water often (n = 294, 96.4%), and the least implemented was avoiding meat consumption (n = 257, 84.3%). Finally, most participants indicated that health officials were their primary source of information (n = 215, 70.5%). Participants of this survey had fairly good knowledge of the virus. Attitudes of participants as a whole may be described as cautious without being overly fearful. Reported behaviors also align well with current public health recommendations. These responses may be reflective of where participants are receiving their information, which, for the majority, is from public health officials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talah Bakdash
- The University of Kansas School of Medicine, 3901 Rainbow Blvd, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA.
| | - Courtney Marsh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Blvd., Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
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202
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Gatwood J, McKnight M, Fiscus M, Hohmeier KC, Chisholm-Burns M. Factors influencing likelihood of COVID-19 vaccination: A survey of Tennessee adults. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2021; 78:879-889. [PMID: 33954426 PMCID: PMC7989652 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxab099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Disclaimer In an effort to expedite the publication of articles related to the COVID-19 pandemic, AJHP is posting these manuscripts online as soon as possible after acceptance. Accepted manuscripts have been peer-reviewed and copyedited, but are posted online before technical formatting and author proofing. These manuscripts are not the final version of record and will be replaced with the final article (formatted per AJHP style and proofed by the authors) at a later time. Purpose To examine the vaccine-related beliefs and behaviors associated with likely hesitancy toward vaccination against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among nonelderly adults. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted in June 2020. Responses were sought from Tennessee adults 18 to 64 years of age who were not healthcare providers. The survey instrument focused on vaccine-related beliefs, prior and planned influenza and pneumococcal vaccine use, and attitudes toward receiving a COVID-19 vaccination. Inferential statistics assessed survey responses, and logistic regression determined predictors of the likelihood of COVID-19 vaccination. Results A total of 1,000 completed responses were analyzed (a 62.9% response rate), and respondents were mostly White (80.1%), insured (79.6%), and/or actively working (64.2%); the sample was well balanced by gender, age, income, and political leaning. Approximately one-third (34.4%) of respondents indicated some historical vaccine hesitancy, and only 21.4% indicated always getting a seasonal influenza vaccination. More than half (54.1%) indicated at least some hesitancy toward vaccination against COVID-19, with 32.1% citing lack of evidence of vaccine effectiveness as the leading reason. COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy was more likely among those with more moderate (odds ratio [OR], 2.51; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.749-3.607) or conservative (OR, 3.01; 95% CI, 2.048-4.421) political leanings, Black Americans (OR, 1.80; 95% CI, 1.182-2.742), and residents of nonmetropolitan areas (OR, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.386-2.865). Conclusion Subgroups of the population may prove more challenging to vaccinate against COVID-19, requiring targeted approaches to addressing hesitancy to ensure more-vulnerable populations are adequately covered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Gatwood
- College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Madison McKnight
- College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Michelle Fiscus
- Department of Health, State of Tennessee, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Kenneth C Hohmeier
- College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Marie Chisholm-Burns
- College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
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203
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Rattay P, Michalski N, Domanska OM, Kaltwasser A, De Bock F, Wieler LH, Jordan S. Differences in risk perception, knowledge and protective behaviour regarding COVID-19 by education level among women and men in Germany. Results from the COVID-19 Snapshot Monitoring (COSMO) study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251694. [PMID: 33979413 PMCID: PMC8116045 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The main strategy for combatting SARS-CoV-2 infections in 2020 consisted of behavioural regulations including contact reduction, maintaining distance, hand hygiene, and mask wearing. COVID-19-related risk perception and knowledge may influence protective behaviour, and education could be an important determinant. The current study investigated differences by education level in risk perception, knowledge and protective behaviour regarding COVID-19 in Germany, exploring the development of the pandemic over time. The COVID-19 Snapshot Monitoring study is a repeated cross-sectional online survey conducted during the pandemic in Germany from 3 March 2020 (waves 1-28: 27,957 participants aged 18-74). Differences in risk perception, knowledge and protective behaviour according to education level (high versus low) were analysed using linear and logistic regression. Time trends were accounted for by interaction terms for education level and calendar week. Regarding protective behaviour, interaction terms were tested for all risk perception and knowledge variables with education level. The strongest associations with education level were evident for perceived and factual knowledge regarding COVID-19. Moreover, associations were found between low education level and higher perceived severity, and between low education level and lower perceived probability. Highly educated men were more worried about COVID-19 than those with low levels of education. No educational differences were observed for perceived susceptibility or fear. Higher compliance with hand washing was found in highly educated women, and higher compliance with maintaining distance was found in highly educated men. Regarding maintaining distance, the impact of perceived severity differed between education groups. In men, significant moderation effects of education level on the association between factual knowledge and all three protective behaviours were found. During the pandemic, risk perception and protective behaviour varied greatly over time. Overall, differences by education level were relatively small. For risk communication, reaching all population groups irrespective of education level is critical.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Freia De Bock
- Federal Centre for Health Education, Cologne, Germany
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204
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Chen WL, Song SY, Yap KH. The Unintended Consequences of the Pandemic: The New Normal for College Students in South Korea and Taiwan. Front Public Health 2021; 9:598302. [PMID: 34046381 PMCID: PMC8144296 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.598302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study attempts to compare the impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on college students' lifestyles and mental health conditions in South Korea and Taiwan. As the COVID-19 outbreak has spread across the globe, it has brought significant changes to college campuses worldwide. College students have been heavily affected by the closure, as online learning has become increasingly common in higher education institutions. Using data collected from college students in South Korea and Taiwan in the spring of 2020, this study examines the effects of pandemic-related lifestyle changes on mental health conditions for college students in the two countries. The results were 3-fold. First, compared to college students in Taiwan, college students in South Korea reported greater decreases in time spent traveling, being with friends, eating at restaurants, and engaging in part-time employment, and greater increases in online shopping and ordering food for delivery. Second, college students in South Korea reported a higher level of worry, a greater possibility of contact with a person with COVID-19, and a lower level of happiness than did college students in Taiwan. Third, our findings indicate that social activities, including spending time with friends, were positively correlated with mental health conditions in South Korea and Taiwan. Comparing Korean and Taiwanese students' lifestyle changes and mental health conditions amid the pandemic, the study argues that the decrease in socialization and interaction under these new circumstances may be a significant factor that explains an increase in mental health issues in Korean college students compared to Taiwanese students, given the increase in confirmed COVID-19 cases in South Korea and the corresponding greater use of online teaching platforms there than in Taiwan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Lin Chen
- Center for Teacher Education, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Sue-Yeon Song
- Institute of Distance Education, Korea National Open University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ko-Hua Yap
- Department of Sociology, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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205
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Li S, Cui G, Kaminga AC, Cheng S, Xu H. Associations Between Health Literacy, eHealth Literacy, and COVID-19-Related Health Behaviors Among Chinese College Students: Cross-sectional Online Study. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e25600. [PMID: 33822734 PMCID: PMC8104003 DOI: 10.2196/25600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background During the COVID-19 pandemic, the internet has significantly spread information, providing people with knowledge and advice about health protection regarding COVID-19. While a previous study demonstrated that health and eHealth literacy are related to COVID-19 prevention behaviors, few studies have focused on the relationship between health literacy, eHealth literacy, and COVID-19–related health behaviors. The latter includes not only preventative behaviors but also conventional health behaviors. Objective The objective of this study was to develop and verify a COVID-19–related health behavior questionnaire, explore its status and structure, and examine the associations between these behaviors and participants’ health literacy and eHealth literacy. Methods A snowball sampling method was adopted to recruit participants to complete anonymous cross-sectional questionnaire surveys online that assessed sociodemographic information, self-reported coronavirus knowledge, health literacy, eHealth literacy, and COVID-19–related health behaviors. Results Of 1873 college students who were recruited, 781 (41.7%) had adequate health literacy; the mean eHealth literacy score was 30.16 (SD 6.31). The COVID-19–related health behavior questionnaire presented a two-factor structure—COVID-19–specific precautionary behaviors and conventional health behaviors—with satisfactory fit indices and internal consistency (Cronbach α=.79). The mean score of COVID-19–related health behaviors was 53.77 (SD 8.03), and scores differed significantly (P<.05) with respect to residence, college year, academic major, family economic level, self-reported health status, having a family member or friend infected with coronavirus, and health literacy level. Linear regression analysis showed that health literacy and eHealth literacy were positively associated with COVID-19–specific precautionary behaviors (βhealth literacy=.149, βeHealth literacy=.368; P<.001) and conventional health behaviors (βhealth literacy=.219, βeHealth literacy=.277; P<.001). Conclusions The COVID-19–related health behavior questionnaire was a valid and reliable measure for assessing health behaviors during the pandemic. College students with higher health literacy and eHealth literacy can more actively adopt COVID-19–related health behaviors. Additionally, compared to health literacy, eHealth literacy is more closely related to COVID-19–related health behaviors. Public intervention measures based on health and eHealth literacy are required to promote COVID-19–related health behaviors during the pandemic, which may be helpful to reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection among college students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaojie Li
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Guanghui Cui
- School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Atipatsa Chiwanda Kaminga
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Mzuzu University, Luwinga, Malawi.,Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Sixiang Cheng
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Huilan Xu
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
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206
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Protective measures against COVID-19 and the business strategies of the retail enterprises: Differences in gender, age, education, and income among shoppers. JOURNAL OF RETAILING AND CONSUMER SERVICES 2021; 60:102446. [PMCID: PMC7832280 DOI: 10.1016/j.jretconser.2021.102446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The present study sought to develop a conceptual framework to explain the influence of protective measures adopted by the retail enterprises against the COVID-19 virus on customers’ attitudes toward these measures, and the safety during the shopping experience, as well as the satisfaction with these types of protective measures and behavioral intentions. A structural equation modeling and metric invariance test were used as the data analysis technique. Our results revealed that the protective measures against the COVID-19 virus significantly and positively influenced customer safety during shopping, the attitudes and satisfaction, which contribute to an increase of their behavioral intentions as a result. The mediating role of attitudes and safety was also uncovered. In addition, our findings from the metric invariance test indicated that gender, age, education, and income significantly moderated the relationships among the studied constructs. Our results can help retail practitioners and researchers develop a strategy to effectively implement protective measures against COVID-19 in the retail enterprises.
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207
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Le K, Nguyen M. The psychological burden of the COVID-19 pandemic severity. ECONOMICS AND HUMAN BIOLOGY 2021; 41:100979. [PMID: 33497964 PMCID: PMC7817435 DOI: 10.1016/j.ehb.2021.100979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The alarming levels of spread and severity of COVID-19 have dominated global attention. In this time of crisis, there is an urgent need for studies identifying the linkages between the pandemic and social welfare. To help policymakers respond to the situation better, we investigate how the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic can condition people's psychological well-being. Employing the latest weekly panel data within an individual fixed effects framework, we uncover the damaging consequences of the COVID-19 severity, as measured by mortality rate, on the incidences of daily anxiety, worry, displeasure, and depression in the United States. Our work underlines the importance of public spending on mental health, both during and after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kien Le
- The Faculty of Economics and Public Management, Ho Chi Minh City Open University, Vietnam.
| | - My Nguyen
- The Faculty of Economics and Public Management, Ho Chi Minh City Open University, Vietnam.
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208
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Batty GD, Deary IJ, Gale CR. Pre-pandemic cognitive function and COVID-19 mortality: prospective cohort study. Eur J Epidemiol 2021; 36:559-564. [PMID: 33893922 PMCID: PMC8065311 DOI: 10.1007/s10654-021-00743-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Poorer performance on standard tests of pre-morbid cognitive function is related to an elevated risk of death from lower respiratory tract infections but the link with coronavirus (COVID‑19) mortality is untested. Participants in UK Biobank, aged 40 to 69 years at study induction (2006-10), were administered a reaction time test, an indicator of information processing speed, and also had their verbal-numeric reasoning assessed. Between April 1st and September 23rd 2020 there were 388 registry-confirmed deaths (138 women) ascribed to COVID-19 in 494,932 individuals (269,602 women) with a reaction time test result, and 125 such deaths (38 women) in the subgroup of 180,198 people (97,794 women) with data on verbal-numeric reasoning. In analyses adjusted for age, sex, and ethnicity, a one standard deviation slower reaction time was related to a higher rate of death from COVID-19 (hazard ratio; 95% confidence interval: 1.18; 1.09, 1.28), as was a one standard deviation disadvantage on the verbal-numeric reasoning test (1.32; 1.09, 1.59). While there was some attenuation in these relationships after adjustment for additional covariates which included socio-economic status and lifestyle factors, the two pre-pandemic indicators of cognitive function continued to be related to COVID-19 mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- George David Batty
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 6BT UK
| | - Ian J. Deary
- Lothian Birth Cohorts, Department of Psychology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Catharine R. Gale
- Lothian Birth Cohorts, Department of Psychology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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209
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Shi Z, Yan A, Zimmet P, Sun X, Cristina do Vale Moreira N, Cheskin LJ, Wang L, Qu W, Yan H, Hussain A, Wang Y. COVID-19, Diabetes, and Associated Health Outcomes in China: Results from a Nationwide Survey of 10 545 Adults. Horm Metab Res 2021; 53:301-310. [PMID: 33962477 DOI: 10.1055/a-1468-4535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the associations between diabetes and self-reported/familial COVID-19 infection and investigated health-related outcomes among those with diabetes during China's nationwide quarantine. The 2020 China COVID-19 Survey was administered anonymously via social media (WeChat). It was completed by 10 545 adults in all of mainland China's 31 provinces. The survey consisted of 74 items covering sociodemographic characteristics, preventive measures for COVID-19, lifestyle behaviors, and health-related outcomes during the period of quarantine. Regression models examined associations among study variables. Diabetes was associated with a six-fold increased risk of reporting COVID-19 infection among respondents or their family members. Among people with diabetes, individuals who rarely wore masks had double the risk of suspected COVID-19 infection compared with those who always wore masks, with an inverse J-shaped relationship between face mask wearing and suspected COVID-19 infection. People with diabetes tended to have both poor knowledge of COVID-19 and poor compliance with preventive measures, despite perceiving a high risk of personal infection (40.0% among respondents reporting diabetes and 8.0% without diabetes). Only 54-55% of these respondents claimed to consistently practice preventive measures, including wearing face masks. Almost 60% of those with diabetes experienced food or medication shortages during the quarantine period, which was much higher than those without diabetes. Importantly, respondents who experienced medication shortages reported a 63% higher COVID-19 infection rate. Diabetes was associated with an increased risk of self-reported personal and family member COVID-19 infection, which is mitigated by consistent use of face masks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zumin Shi
- Human Nutrition Department, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Alice Yan
- Center for Advancing Population Science, Division of General Internal Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Paul Zimmet
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Xiaoming Sun
- Global Health Institute, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China
| | | | - Lawrence J Cheskin
- Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Liming Wang
- National Center for Chronic and Non-communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Weidong Qu
- Centers for Water and Health, Key Laboratory of the Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education, Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Yan
- Global Health Institute, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China
| | - Akhtar Hussain
- Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará (FAMED-UFC), Brazil
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Nord University, Bodø, Norway
- International Diabetes Federation, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Youfa Wang
- Global Health Institute, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, China
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210
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Sadang JM, Palompon DR. The development of Need-Threat Internal Resiliency Theory in COVID-19 crisis utilizing deductive axiomatic approach. BELITUNG NURSING JOURNAL 2021; 7:72-77. [PMID: 37469939 PMCID: PMC10353619 DOI: 10.33546/bnj.1300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Resiliency for older people represents the capacity to return to equilibrium when difficulties arise and was found as integral predictor of their health status. This study aims to develop a theory that attempts to explain the older adults' resiliency perspectives during crisis and how it has affected their well-being and quality of life as population group. Deductive theory generation using axiomatic approach was adopted resulting to five axioms that served as basis for the generation of three propositions such as: (1) An older person's health needs have tendencies to develop into a health threat, (2) when the threat is perceived, older persons developed a sense of internal control and adaptation to the changes it creates known as internal resiliency, and (3) internal resiliency can influence the quality of life in old age. The evolved theory suggests that in times of crisis (e.g., COVID-19 pandemic), health needs develop into a health threat that compels older persons to develop internal resiliency in order to preserve their integrity, wellbeing and quality of life. This study widens the nursing perspectives in addressing older persons' resiliency by the unique condition at which older clients are placed affecting both the pathological nature of the illness as well as the preventive interventions which the society is forced to implement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonaid M. Sadang
- College of Health Sciences, Mindanao State University, Marawi City, 9700, Philippines
| | - Daisy R. Palompon
- College of Nursing, Cebu Normal University, Cebu City, 6000, Philippines
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211
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Swann F, Easton R, McGuinness J, Hutt-Williams S. Evolving role of the hospice day centre during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2021:bmjspcare-2021-003133. [PMID: 33927015 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2021-003133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Florence Swann
- Macmillan Unit, University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust, Christchurch, UK
| | - Rachel Easton
- Macmillan Unit, University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust, Christchurch, UK
| | - John McGuinness
- Macmillan Unit, University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust, Christchurch, UK
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212
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Naeim A, Baxter-King R, Wenger N, Stanton AL, Sepucha K, Vavreck L. Effects of Age, Gender, Health Status, and Political Party on COVID-19-Related Concerns and Prevention Behaviors: Results of a Large, Longitudinal Cross-sectional Survey. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2021; 7:e24277. [PMID: 33908887 PMCID: PMC8080961 DOI: 10.2196/24277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background With conflicting information about COVID-19, the general public may be uncertain about how to proceed in terms of precautionary behavior and decisions about whether to return to activity. Objective The aim of this study is to determine the factors associated with COVID-19–related concerns, precautionary behaviors, and willingness to return to activity. Methods National survey data were obtained from the Democracy Fund + UCLA Nationscape Project, an ongoing cross-sectional weekly survey. The sample was provided by Lucid, a web-based market research platform. Three outcomes were evaluated: (1) COVID-19–related concerns, (2) precautionary behaviors, and (3) willingness to return to activity. Key independent variables included age, gender, race or ethnicity, education, household income, political party support, religion, news consumption, number of medication prescriptions, perceived COVID-19 status, and timing of peak COVID-19 infections by state. Results The data included 125,508 responses from web-based surveys conducted over 20 consecutive weeks during the COVID-19 pandemic (comprising approximately 6250 adults per week), between March 19 and August 5, 2020, approved by the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Institutional Review Board for analysis. A substantial number of participants were not willing to return to activity even after the restrictions were lifted. Weighted multivariate logistic regressions indicated the following groups had different outcomes (all P<.001): individuals aged ≥65 years (COVID-19–related concerns: OR 2.05, 95% CI 1.93-2.18; precautionary behaviors: OR 2.38, 95% CI 2.02-2.80; return to activity: OR 0.41, 95% CI 0.37-0.46 vs 18-40 years); men (COVID-19–related concerns: OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.70-0.75; precautionary behaviors: OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.67-0.81; return to activity: OR 2.00, 95% CI 1.88-2.12 vs women); taking ≥4 medications (COVID-19–related concerns: OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.40-1.54; precautionary behaviors: OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.20-1.555; return to activity: OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.69-0.81 vs <3 medications); Republicans (COVID-19–related concerns: OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.38-0.42; precautionary behaviors: OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.40-0.50; return to activity: OR 2.22, 95% CI 2.09-2.36 vs Democrats); and adults who reported having COVID-19 (COVID-19–related concerns: OR 1.24, 95% CI 1.12-1.39; precautionary behaviors: OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.52-0.81; return to activity: OR 3.99, 95% CI 3.48-4.58 vs those who did not). Conclusions Participants’ age, party affiliation, and perceived COVID-19 status were strongly associated with their COVID-19–related concerns, precautionary behaviors, and willingness to return to activity. Future studies need to develop and test targeted messaging approaches and consider political partisanship to encourage preventative behaviors and willingness to return to activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arash Naeim
- Center for SMART Health, Departments of Medicine and Bioengineering, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Ryan Baxter-King
- Department of Political Science, College of Letters and Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Neil Wenger
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Sciences Research, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Annette L Stanton
- Department of Psychology and Psychiatry, College of Letters and Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Karen Sepucha
- Health Decision Sciences Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lynn Vavreck
- Departments of Political Science and Communication, College of Letters and Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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213
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Saqlain M, Ahmed A, Nabi I, Gulzar A, Naz S, Munir MM, Ahmed Z, Kamran S. Public Knowledge and Practices Regarding Coronavirus Disease 2019: A Cross-Sectional Survey From Pakistan. Front Public Health 2021; 9:629015. [PMID: 34026708 PMCID: PMC8133216 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.629015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Effective mitigation of coronavirus diseases (COVID-19) pandemic requires true adoption of precautionary measures by the masses, that primarily depends upon their knowledge and practices behaviors. The current study aimed to assess the knowledge; practices of Pakistani residents regarding COVID-19 and factors associated with adequate knowledge and positive practices. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted from 15-April 2020 to 20 May 2020 among 689 Pakistanis by using a validated self-administered questionnaire (Cronbach's alpha 0.77). The questionnaire included questions on the assessment of demographics, the source of information, knowledge, and practice of COVID-19 on google forms and shared links with the WhatsApp groups, Facebook pages and other online platforms. Regression analysis was applied to find potential predictors of knowledge and practices. Results: Of 689 participants, 431 (62.6%) were male, 64.3% (n = 443) were aged <30 years, and\328 (47.6%) of participants were married. 48.19% (n = 332) had adequate knowledge; 81% (n = 555) had positive practices regarding COVID-19 and majority (66.62%, n = 459) seek knowledge from social media. Knowledge was significantly higher (OR > 1.00, p < 0.05) among educated and higher income participants. Positive practices were significantly (OR > 1.00, p < 0.05) related to the older age (≥50 years), higher education, higher income and good knowledge regarding COVID-19. Conclusion: The study concluded that Pakistani residents had average knowledge and good practices toward COVID-19 yet there are gaps in specific aspects of knowledge, and practice that should be focused in future awareness and educational campaigns. The study recommends the ministry of health authorities to promote all precautionary and preventive measures of COVID-19-consisting of a better-organized approach to all strata of society: less privileged people, older ones and less educated people, in order to have equilibrium of knowledge about COVID-19; hence effective implementation of precautionary measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Saqlain
- Department of Pharmacy, Quaid-I-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Ali Ahmed
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University, Bander Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Ijaz Nabi
- Faisalabad Medical University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Aqsa Gulzar
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University, Bander Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Sahar Naz
- Institute of Pharmacy, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - Zaheer Ahmed
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Sohail Kamran
- Department of Pharmacy, Quid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
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214
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Molla KA, Abegaz SB. Community knowledge, attitude and practices to SARS-CoV-2 disease 2019 (COVID-19): A cross-sectional study in Woldia town, Northeast Ethiopia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0250465. [PMID: 33878139 PMCID: PMC8057572 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 disease 2019 (COVID-19) is pandemic and currently becomes a serious cause of death worldwide. It is caused by a SARS-CoV-2 belonging to a family known as corona virus. The aim of this study is to assess the community knowledge, attitude and practice strategy implementation on SARS-CoV-2 disease 2019 (COVID-19). A cross-sectional survey study was done from July to October, 2020 in Woldia town, Northeast Ethiopia. Interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from 404 respondents. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square test with a 95% confidence interval to know the association of socio-demographic characteristics with the knowledge, attitude and practices towards COVID-19. From a total of 404 responses collected (64.1%, n = 259/404), (50.7%, n = 205/404) and (39.6%, n = 160/404) of the respondents were between ages 18–39 years, males and were diploma and above, respectively. The majority of the respondents had good knowledge about the transmission mode and symptoms of COVID-19 and they obtained information mainly through mass media. The knowledge of the respondents about the transmission mode of COVID-I9 through coughing and sneezing, direct contact with infected person and touching contaminated materials was statistically associated with education and occupation (p <0.001). Among the total respondents (53.7%, n = 217/404) had a negative attitude that COVID-19 pandemic will not be controlled. The attitude of the respondents towards successfully controlling of COVID-I9 was statistically associated in terms of age, marital status, education and occupation (p < 0.001). Most of the respondents (63.1%, n = 255/404), (58.9%, n = 238/404), (66.8%, n = 270/404) and (63.9%, n = 258/404) did not wash hands with soap, avoidance of touching the nose and mouth, practicing social distancing and wearing of face masks in public or crowded places, respectively. The practices of the respondents towards COVID-19 were statistically associated with sex, marital status, education and occupation (p < 0.01). COVID-19 is currently the cause of death and it has a great impact on the economy, politics and social interactions in the study area. The government should strength the health system by increasing surveillance activities in detecting cases. Our findings suggest that the community should practice the WHO and EMoH recommendations to minimize the spread of the virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kindu Alem Molla
- Natural and Computational Sciences Faculty, Department of Biology, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
- * E-mail:
| | - Silamlak Birhanu Abegaz
- Natural and Computational Sciences Faculty, Department of Biology, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
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215
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Rivers AS, Clifton M, Pizzuto AE, Buchanan A, Sanford K. Assessing Attitudes Toward COVID-19 Prevention: Defining Two Attitudes Crucial for Understanding Systemic and Social Variables Associated with Disparities. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2021; 9:1030-1039. [PMID: 33876408 PMCID: PMC8054853 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-021-01042-3] [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: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
This study tested a conceptual model identifying two distinct types of attitudes people may have toward following recommendations to prevent COVID-19. These attitudes were expected to be important for understanding types of systemic and social variables associated with health disparities such as racial discrimination, residential environment, lack of healthcare access, and negative healthcare experiences. The conceptual model was drawn from previous work examining adherence to medical recommendations that identified two distinct and consequential attitudes that influence behavior: perceived benefit (believing recommendations are effective and necessary) and perceived burden (experiencing recommendations as unpleasant or difficult). Approximately equal proportions of Black and White individuals living in the USA (N = 194) were recruited to complete an online survey. A psychometric analysis indicated that perceived benefit and burden attitudes were two distinct and meaningful dimensions that could be assessed with high validity, and scales demonstrated measurement invariance across Black and White groups. In correlation analyses, benefit and burden attitudes were robustly associated with neighborhood violence, healthcare access, and healthcare experiences (but not with experiences of discrimination), and all these associations remained significant after accounting for subjective stress and political affiliation. These findings have implications for increasing compliance to public health recommendations and addressing health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mona Clifton
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
| | | | - Ashley Buchanan
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
| | - Keith Sanford
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA.
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216
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Regmi K, Lwin CM. Factors Associated with the Implementation of Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions for Reducing Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:4274. [PMID: 33920613 PMCID: PMC8072790 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18084274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
There has been much discussion recently about the importance of implementing non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) to protect the public from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. Different governments across the world have adopted NPIs (e.g., social distancing, quarantine, isolation, lockdowns, curfews, travel restrictions, closures of schools and colleges). Two fundamental strategies, namely a strict containment strategy-also called suppression strategy-and a mitigation strategy have been adopted in different countries, mainly to reduce the reproduction number (R0) to below one and hence to reduce case numbers to low levels or eliminate human-to-human transmission, as well as to use NPIs to interrupt transmission completely and to reduce the health impact of epidemics, respectively. However, the adoption of these NPI strategies is varied and the factors impacting NPI are inconsistent and unclear. This study, therefore, aimed to review the factors associated with the implementation of NPIs (social distancing, social isolation and quarantine) for reducing COVID-19. Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched for published and unpublished studies, undertaking a systematic search of: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Allied and Complementary Medicine, COVID-19 Research, WHO database on COVID-19, and Google Scholar. Thirty-three studies were included in the study. Seven descriptive themes emerged on enablers and barriers to NPIs: the positive impact of NPIs, effective public health interventions, positive change in people's behaviour and concerns about COVID-19, the role of mass media, physical and psychological impacts, and ethnicity/age associated with COVID-19. This study has highlighted that the effectiveness of NPIs in isolation is likely to be limited, therefore, a combination of multiple measures e.g., SD, isolation and quarantine, and workplace distancing appeared more effective in reducing COVID-19. Studies suggest that targeted approaches alongside social distancing might be the way forward, and more acceptable. Further research to promote country- and context-specific adoption of NPIs to deliver public health measures is needed. Studies comparing the effectiveness of interventions and strategies will help provide more evidence for future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Regmi
- Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, Luton LU1 3JU, UK
- Centre for Medical Education, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD2 4BF, UK
| | - Cho Mar Lwin
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Medicine Mandalay, Mandalay 05024, Myanmar;
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217
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Ozdemir S, Tan SNG, Chaudhry I, Malhotra C, Finkelstein EA. Public Preferences for Government Response Policies on Outbreak Control. PATIENT-PATIENT CENTERED OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2021; 14:347-358. [PMID: 33840078 PMCID: PMC8035860 DOI: 10.1007/s40271-020-00494-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the extent to which public support for outbreak containment policies varies with respect to the severity of an infectious disease outbreak. METHODS A web-enabled survey was administered to 1017 residents of Singapore during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, and was quota-sampled based on age, sex, and ethnicity. A fractional-factorial design was used to create hypothetical outbreak vignettes characterised by morbidity and fatality rates, and local and global spread of an infectious disease. Each respondent was asked to indicate which response policies (among five policies restricting local movement and four border control policies) they would support in five randomly assigned vignettes. Binomial logistic regressions were used to predict the probabilities of support as a function of outbreak attributes, personal characteristics, and perceived policy effectiveness. RESULTS Likelihood of support varied across government response policies but was generally higher for border control policies compared with internal policies. The fatality rate was the most important factor for internal policies, while the degree of global spread was the most important for border control policies. In general, individuals who were less healthy, had higher-income, and were older were more likely to support these policies. Perceived effectiveness of a policy was a consistent and positive predictor of public support. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that campaigns to promote public support should be designed specifically to each policy and tailored to different segments of the population. They should also be adapted based on the evolving conditions of the outbreak in order to receive continued public support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Semra Ozdemir
- Programme in Health Services and Systems Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore.
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore.
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, 12 Science Drive 2, Singapore, 117549, Singapore.
| | - Si Ning Germaine Tan
- Programme in Health Services and Systems Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
| | - Isha Chaudhry
- Programme in Health Services and Systems Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
| | - Chetna Malhotra
- Programme in Health Services and Systems Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
| | - Eric Andrew Finkelstein
- Programme in Health Services and Systems Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, 12 Science Drive 2, Singapore, 117549, Singapore
- Duke University Global Health Institute, Duke University, 310 Trent Drive, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
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218
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Pavelić K, Kraljević Pavelić S, Brix B, Goswami N. A Perspective on COVID-19 Management. J Clin Med 2021; 10:1586. [PMID: 33918624 PMCID: PMC8070140 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10081586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel coronavirus-Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-outbreak correlated with the global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was declared by the WHO in March 2020, resulting in numerous counted cases attributed to SARS-CoV-2 worldwide. Herein, we discuss current knowledge on the available therapy options for patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Based on available scientific data, we present an overview of solutions in COVID-19 management by use of drugs, vaccines and antibodies. Many questions with non-conclusive answers on the measures for the management of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on health still exist-i.e., the actual infection percentage of the population, updated precise mortality data, variability in response to infection by the population, the nature of immunity and its duration, vaccine development issues, a fear that science might end up with excessive promises in response to COVID-19-and were raised among scientists. Indeed, science may or may not deliver results in real time. In the presented paper we discuss some consequences of disease, its detection and serological tests, some solutions to disease prevention and management, pitfalls and obstacles, including vaccination. The presented ideas and data herein are meant to contribute to the ongoing debate on COVID-19 without pre-selection of available information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krešimir Pavelić
- Faculty of Medicine, Juraj Dobrila University of Pula, Zagrebačka 30, 52100 Pula, Croatia;
| | | | - Bianca Brix
- Physiology Division, Otto Loewi Research Center for Vascular Biology, Immunology and Inflammation, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6/D.05, 8010 Graz, Austria;
| | - Nandu Goswami
- Physiology Division, Otto Loewi Research Center for Vascular Biology, Immunology and Inflammation, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6/D.05, 8010 Graz, Austria;
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219
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Sakr S, Ghaddar A, Sheet I, Eid AH, Hamam B. Knowledge, attitude and practices related to COVID-19 among young Lebanese population. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:653. [PMID: 33823826 PMCID: PMC8022301 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10575-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background As the world faces the most serious and widespread pandemic in recent history, claiming nearly 1,945,610 lives and infecting over 90 million individuals up to January 13, 2021, controlling the spread of COVID-19 is still limited to efforts done by the general population implementing rules and restrictions passed by world governments and organizations. As we wait for the approved vaccines to become widely distributed, the best approach to fighting the spread of this disease is mostly preventative depending largely on individuals’ compliance. This study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) towards COVID-19 in Lebanon. Methods A descriptive analysis was performed to describe the outcome measures of knowledge, attitudes and practices towards COVID-19 on a convenience sample from the Lebanese population in relation to socio-demographic characteristics and level of concern towards COVID-19. One thousand eight hundred sixty-one participants filled in an online survey (response rate: 18.5%) distributed by social media to social networks of the research team members. Results Participants were mainly young (49.4% between 18 and 24 years) and males (73.7%). Participants showed an overall appropriate knowledge of COVID-19 (67.1%) and positive attitude (around 90% were optimistic about treatment and vaccination) and had good preventive practices towards COVID-19 (around 75% washed hands and avoided public places). Knowledge and practices correlated positively with marriage, age, education, working in a healthcare field and with the level of concern about getting COVID-19. Conclusions This study found good overall levels of KAP among the studied Lebanese population. This can help in controlling the spread of COVID-19 if individuals were forced to adhere to social distancing and appropriate preventative practices. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-10575-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samer Sakr
- Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali Ghaddar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Imtithal Sheet
- Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali H Eid
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.,Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Unit, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Bassam Hamam
- Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon.
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220
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Savage RD, Wu W, Li J, Lawson A, Bronskill SE, Chamberlain SA, Grieve J, Gruneir A, Reppas-Rindlisbacher C, Stall NM, Rochon PA. Loneliness among older adults in the community during COVID-19: a cross-sectional survey in Canada. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e044517. [PMID: 33811054 PMCID: PMC8023743 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-044517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Physical distancing and stay-at-home measures implemented to slow transmission of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) may intensify feelings of loneliness in older adults, especially those living alone. Our aim was to characterise the extent of loneliness during the first wave in a sample of older adults living in the community and assess characteristics associated with loneliness. DESIGN Online cross-sectional survey between 6 May and 19 May 2020. SETTING Ontario, Canada. PARTICIPANTS Convenience sample of members of a national retired educators' organisation. PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES Self-reported loneliness, including differences between women and men. RESULTS 4879 respondents (71.0% women; 67.4% 65-79 years) reported that in the preceding week, 43.1% felt lonely at least some of the time, including 8.3% who felt lonely always or often. Women had increased odds of loneliness compared with men, whether living alone (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.52, 95% CI 1.13 to 2.04) or with others (2.44, 95% CI 2.04 to 2.92). Increasing age group decreased the odds of loneliness (aOR 0.69 (95% CI 0.59 to 0.81) 65-79 years and 0.50 (95% CI 0.39 to 0.65) 80+ years compared with <65 years). Living alone was associated with loneliness, with a greater association in men (aOR 4.26, 95% CI 3.15 to 5.76) than women (aOR 2.65, 95% CI 2.26 to 3.11). Other factors associated with loneliness included: fair or poor health (aOR 1.93, 95% CI 1.54 to 2.41), being a caregiver (aOR 1.18, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.37), receiving care (aOR 1.47, 95% CI 1.19 to 1.81), high concern for the pandemic (aOR 1.55, 95% CI 1.31 to 1.84), not experiencing positive effects of pandemic distancing measures (aOR 1.94, 95% CI 1.62 to 2.32) and changes to daily routine (aOR 2.81, 95% CI 1.96 to 4.03). CONCLUSIONS While many older adults reported feeling lonely during COVID-19, several characteristics-such as being female and living alone-increased the odds of loneliness. These characteristics may help identify priorities for targeting interventions to reduce loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel D Savage
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wei Wu
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joyce Li
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea Lawson
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Susan E Bronskill
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Andrea Gruneir
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Christina Reppas-Rindlisbacher
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nathan M Stall
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paula A Rochon
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Duculan R, Jannat-Khah D, Mehta B, Mandl LA, Barbhaiya M, Bass AR, Mancuso CA. Variables Associated With Perceived Risk of Contracting SARS-CoV-2 Infection During the COVID-19 Pandemic Among Patients With Systemic Rheumatic Diseases. J Clin Rheumatol 2021; 27:120-126. [PMID: 33264246 DOI: 10.1097/rhu.0000000000001686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess patients' perceived risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2 at the peak of the pandemic in NYC in terms of their systemic rheumatic disease and medications. METHODS With the approval of their rheumatologists, patients were interviewed by telephone and were asked about their perceived risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2 considering their rheumatic condition and whether medications increased this risk. Patients also completed surveys assessing beliefs about medication and multidimensions of physical/mental well-being. Information about current medications and rheumatologist-initiated changes in medications during the pandemic were reported by patients and verified from medical records. RESULTS One hundred twelve patients (86% women; mean age, 50 years; 81% White, 15% Latino) with diverse diagnoses were enrolled. Fifty-four percent thought they were at "very much greater risk" of COVID-19 because of their rheumatic condition, and 57% thought medications "definitely" put them at greater risk. In multivariable analysis, the perception of "very much greater risk" was associated with greater belief that rheumatic disease medications were necessary, worse physical function, chronic pulmonary comorbidity, and more anxiety. In a separate model, the perception that medications "definitely" caused greater risk was associated with White race, not taking hydroxychloroquine, rheumatologists initiating change in medications, more anxiety, and taking biologics and corticosteroids. CONCLUSIONS Patients' perceived increased risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2 was associated with beliefs about their rheumatic disease, medications, comorbidity, and anxiety. Clinicians should be aware of patients' perceptions and foster self-management practices that will alleviate anxiety, minimize exposure to the virus, and optimize systemic rheumatic disease outcomes.
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Pharmacists self-perceived role competence in prevention and containment of COVID-19: A cross-sectional study. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2021; 64:102243. [PMID: 33815788 PMCID: PMC7997263 DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2021.102243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The increased need for prioritized infection prevention and control (IPC) activities for the prevention and containment of COVID-19 is pivotal and timely in preventing harm caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Little is known about pharmacists' infection IPC activities and their role competence during disease outbreaks. This study aimed to assess pharmacists' perceived role competence to perform frontline roles during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method A cross-sectional survey was conducted using online social media to recruit eligible participants. A validated questionnaire contained 41 items on sociodemographic characteristics, preventative behaviors, and competencies. Results A total of 486 participants completed the survey. Participants reported several IPC activities that could potentially prevent COVID-19 spread. The majority expressed high attitudes towards their capabilities to fulfill their healthcare roles (M = 4.43, SD = 0.46, out of 5). The vast majority of participants (97.1%) were willing to demonstrate the effective way of cleaning hands and using facemasks. Pharmacists (89.1%) showed their willingness to timely refer patients in response to their emerging needs. Gender, age groups, years of experience, monthly incomes, area of work, ability to make a referral, source of information, and self-isolation discontinuation criteria were significantly associated with pharmacists’ self-perceived role competence. Conclusion Pharmacists are well-positioned as access points to care and can potentially play a significant role in the containment of the COVID-19 outbreak by delivering advanced clinical and public health services. Future research efforts need to be comprehensively directed towards the advanced role of pharmacists in implementing point-of-care testing for infectious diseases. Several pharmacist activities proved useful in deterring the spread of COVID-19. COVID-19 management is enhanced by offering pharmaceutical and public health services. Pharmacists demonstrated their capacity in referring patients and meet their needs. Pharmacists emphasized that supportive care became essential for COVID-19 patients.
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Batty GD, Deary IJ, Fawns-Ritchie C, Gale CR, Altschul D. Pre-pandemic Cognitive Function and COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy: Cohort Study. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2021:2021.03.16.21253634. [PMID: 33791726 PMCID: PMC8010758 DOI: 10.1101/2021.03.16.21253634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
Background Whereas several predictors of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy have been examined, the role of cognitive function following the widely publicised development of an inoculation is unknown. Objective To test the association between scores from an array of cognitive function tests and self-reported vaccine hesitancy after the announcement of the successful testing of the Oxford University/AstraZeneca vaccine. Design Setting and Participants We used individual-level data from a pandemic-focused study (COVID Survey), a prospective cohort study nested within Understanding Society (Main Survey). In the week immediately following the announcement of successful testing of the first efficacious inoculation (November/December 2020), data on vaccine intentionality were collected in 11740 individuals (6702 women) aged 16-95. Pre-pandemic scores on general cognitive function, ascertained from a battery of six tests, were captured in 2011/12 wave of the Main Survey. Measurements Self-reported intention to take up a vaccination for COVID-19. To summarise our results, we computed odds ratios with accompanying 95% confidence intervals for general cognitive function adjusted for selected covariates. Results Of the study sample, 17.2% (N=1842) indicated they were hesitant about having the vaccine. After adjustment for age, sex, and ethnicity, study members with a lower baseline cognition score were markedly more likely to be vaccine hesitant (odds ratio per standard deviation lower score in cognition; 95% confidence interval: 1.76; 1.62, 1.90). Adjustment for mental and physical health plus household shielding status had no impact on these results, whereas controlling for educational attainment led to partial attenuation but the probability of hesitancy was still elevated (1.52; 1.37, 1.67). There was a linear association for vaccine hesitancy across the full range of cognition scores (p for trend: p<0.0001). Limitations Our outcome was based on intention rather than behaviour. Conclusions Erroneous social media reports might have complicated personal decision-making, leading to people with lower cognitive ability test scores being vaccine-hesitant. With people with lower cognition also experiencing higher rates of COVID-19 in studies conducted prior to vaccine distribution, these new findings are suggestive of a potential additional disease burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- G David Batty
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, UK
| | - Ian J Deary
- Lothian Birth Cohorts, Department of Psychology, University of Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Catharine R Gale
- Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, UK
- Lothian Birth Cohorts, Department of Psychology, University of Edinburgh, UK
| | - Drew Altschul
- Department of Psychology, University of Edinburgh, UK
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Diotaiuti P, Valente G, Mancone S, Falese L, Bellizzi F, Anastasi D, Langiano E, Dominski FH, Andrade A. Perception of Risk, Self-Efficacy and Social Trust during the Diffusion of Covid-19 in Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:3427. [PMID: 33806194 PMCID: PMC8036340 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18073427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The Coronavirus pandemic has affected the lives of people all over the world. The perception of risk and people's consequent behaviour during a pandemic are very complex and are affected by multiple cultural and psychological factors. The aim of this study was to investigate the change in risk perception, perceived self-efficacy and the perceived trust in the behaviour of others, the decisions of health authorities and government provisions, as well as the variation of self-restraint behaviours during the spread of the Covid-19 epidemic in Italy. We used a convenience sample of 707 university students (Mage = 22.99; SD = 4.01) from a central area of Italy. Participants freely joined the research by answering an online questionnaire between February and March 2020. Three time intervals defined by the progressive containment measures implemented by the Italian Government were considered. Main outcome measures were the Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale, the Risk Perception Index, the Index of Self-restraint Behaviours, and Institutional and Interpersonal Trust Measures. Results confirmed that significant changes in the time progression have occurred in the perception of risk, in the perception of individual self-efficacy, in the value attributed to social responsibility, in interpersonal trust and in trust in health authorities. The study also identified the participants' personality traits and locus of control as predictors (positive and negative) of perceived self-efficacy and tested a mediation model of trust on the effect of risk perception on self-restraint intentions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierluigi Diotaiuti
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, 03043 Cassino, Italy; (G.V.); (S.M.); (L.F.); (F.B.); (D.A.); (E.L.)
| | - Giuseppe Valente
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, 03043 Cassino, Italy; (G.V.); (S.M.); (L.F.); (F.B.); (D.A.); (E.L.)
| | - Stefania Mancone
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, 03043 Cassino, Italy; (G.V.); (S.M.); (L.F.); (F.B.); (D.A.); (E.L.)
| | - Lavinia Falese
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, 03043 Cassino, Italy; (G.V.); (S.M.); (L.F.); (F.B.); (D.A.); (E.L.)
| | - Fernando Bellizzi
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, 03043 Cassino, Italy; (G.V.); (S.M.); (L.F.); (F.B.); (D.A.); (E.L.)
| | - Daniela Anastasi
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, 03043 Cassino, Italy; (G.V.); (S.M.); (L.F.); (F.B.); (D.A.); (E.L.)
| | - Elisa Langiano
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, 03043 Cassino, Italy; (G.V.); (S.M.); (L.F.); (F.B.); (D.A.); (E.L.)
| | - Fábio Hech Dominski
- Department of Physical Education, Univille University, Joinville 89219-710, Brazil;
| | - Alexandro Andrade
- Health and Sports Science Center, Department of Physical Education, CEFID, Santa Catarina State University, Florianópolis 88035-901, Brazil;
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Brankston G, Merkley E, Fisman DN, Tuite AR, Poljak Z, Loewen PJ, Greer AL. Socio-demographic disparities in knowledge, practices, and ability to comply with COVID-19 public health measures in Canada. Canadian Journal of Public Health 2021; 112:363-375. [PMID: 33761109 PMCID: PMC7989685 DOI: 10.17269/s41997-021-00501-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Objectives The effectiveness of public health interventions for mitigation of the COVID-19 pandemic depends on individual attitudes, compliance, and the level of support available to allow for compliance with these measures. The aim of this study was to describe attitudes and behaviours towards the Canadian COVID-19 public health response, and identify risk-modifying behaviours based on socio-demographic characteristics. Methods A cross-sectional online survey was administered in May 2020 to members of a paid panel representative of the Canadian population by age, gender, official language, and region of residence. A total of 4981 respondents provided responses for indicators of self-reported risk perceptions, attitudes, and behaviours towards COVID-19 public health measures. Results More than 90% of respondents reported confidence in the ability to comply with a variety of public health measures. However, only 51% reported preparedness for illness in terms of expectation to work if sick or access to paid sick days. Risk perceptions, attitudes, and behaviours varied by demographic variables. Men, younger age groups, and those in the paid workforce were less likely to consider public health measures to be effective, and had less confidence in their ability to comply. Approximately 80% of respondents reported that parents provided childcare and 52% reported that parents in the workforce provided childcare while schools were closed. Conclusion Policies to help address issues of public adherence include targeted messaging for men and younger age groups, social supports for those who need to self-isolate, changes in workplace policies to discourage presenteeism, and provincially co-ordinated masking and safe school policies. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.17269/s41997-021-00501-y.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eric Merkley
- Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - David N Fisman
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Ashleigh R Tuite
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Zvonimir Poljak
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, Canada
| | - Peter J Loewen
- Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Amy L Greer
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, Canada. .,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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226
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Kapila V, Baida I, Calderon A, Stuut T, Cheng CI, Biggs WS. Patients' Attitudes and Sources of Information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 in Rural Michigan. Cureus 2021; 13:e14036. [PMID: 33898122 PMCID: PMC8059483 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.14036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study investigated patients' attitudes about severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in rural Michigan. Despite increasing cases in rural communities across America, surveys have revealed that residents may feel less threatened by the virus compared to their urban counterparts. This difference in attitude and information appraisal can negatively affect rural health by discouraging coronavirus disease (COVID-19) preventative behaviors. Understanding social influences that contribute to the formation of opinions about the pandemic can help public health officials and clinicians better address rural health. Methodology This cross-sectional study surveyed 299 participants from three primary care clinics in Shiawassee County of Michigan during a seven-week interval. Statistical analysis, primarily through SAS version 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA), included descriptive statistics, multiple linear regression models, paired t-tests, and correlation coefficients. A p-value less than or equal to 0.05 was considered significant. Results Patients believed the risk COVID-19 posed to their family was significantly higher than the risk it posed to themselves (p < 0.001). Patients who reported that they would follow their provider's advice for treatment of a non-COVID-19 medical illness were found to be more likely to follow a provider's advice on COVID-19 (p < 0.001). However, patients overall were more agreeable with following provider advice for non-COVID-19 medical illnesses than they were for COVID-19 (p < 0.001). Conclusions As patients were more agreeable with following medical advice on chronic conditions than COVID-19, there may be extrinsic factors influencing patient views of COVID-19. Polarization of COVID-19 in the media has heavily influenced attitudes toward the virus in America. Initiatives to provide reliable patient education is key to encouraging constructive discussions and a healthy rural community. In a strong patient-provider relationship, primary care providers can share and encourage appropriate healthy behaviors regarding COVID-19, which have a direct impact on community health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaishali Kapila
- Family Medicine, Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Mount Pleasant, USA
| | - Ibrahim Baida
- Family Medicine, Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Mount Pleasant, USA
| | - Adriana Calderon
- Family Medicine, Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Mount Pleasant, USA
| | - Thomas Stuut
- Family Medicine, Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Mount Pleasant, USA
| | - Chin-I Cheng
- Department of Statistics, Actuarial and Data Science, Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Mount Pleasant, USA
| | - Wendy S Biggs
- Family Medicine, Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Mount Pleasant, USA
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Mistree D, Loyalka P, Fairlie R, Bhuradia A, Angrish M, Lin J, Karoshi A, Yen SJ, Mistri J, Bayat V. Instructional interventions for improving COVID-19 knowledge, attitudes, behaviors: Evidence from a large-scale RCT in India. Soc Sci Med 2021; 276:113846. [PMID: 33773476 PMCID: PMC7963523 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.113846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Seeking ways to encourage broad compliance with health guidelines during the pandemic, especially among youth, we test two hypotheses pertaining to the optimal design of instructional interventions for improving COVID-19-related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. We randomly assigned 8376 lower-middle income youth in urban India to three treatments: a concentrated and targeted fact-based, instructional intervention; a longer instructional intervention that provided the same facts along with underlying scientific concepts; and a control. Relative to existing efforts, we find that both instructional interventions increased COVID-19-related knowledge immediately after intervention. Relative to the shorter fact-based intervention, the longer intervention resulted in sustained improvements in knowledge, attitudes, and self-reported behavior. Instead of reducing attention and comprehension by youth, the longer scientific based treatment appears to have increased understanding and retention of the material. The findings are instrumental to understanding the design of instruction and communication in affecting compliance during this and future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinsha Mistree
- Stanford University, Law School, 559 Nathan Abbott Way, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
| | - Prashant Loyalka
- Stanford University, Graduate School of Education and Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies, Encina Hall East Wing Room 413, 616 Serra St., Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
| | - Robert Fairlie
- University of California, Department of Economics, Santa Cruz, CA, 95064, USA.
| | - Ashutosh Bhuradia
- Freedom Employability Academy, Valmiki Temple One, Vasant Gaon, New Delhi, 110057, India; Harvard University, Graduate School of Education, 13 Appian Way, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA.
| | - Manyu Angrish
- Freedom Employability Academy, Valmiki Temple One, Vasant Gaon, New Delhi, 110057, India.
| | - Jason Lin
- Harker School, 500 Saratoga Ave., San Jose, CA, 95129, USA.
| | - Amar Karoshi
- Harker School, 500 Saratoga Ave., San Jose, CA, 95129, USA.
| | - Sara J Yen
- Harker School, 500 Saratoga Ave., San Jose, CA, 95129, USA.
| | - Jamsheed Mistri
- University of California, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
| | - Vafa Bayat
- Bitscopic, Inc., 715 Colorado Avenue Suite B, Palo Alto, CA, 94303, USA.
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Best AL, Fletcher FE, Kadono M, Warren RC. Institutional Distrust among African Americans and Building Trustworthiness in the COVID-19 Response: Implications for Ethical Public Health Practice. J Health Care Poor Underserved 2021; 32:90-98. [PMID: 33678683 PMCID: PMC7988507 DOI: 10.1353/hpu.2021.0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
African Americans are disproportionately affected by COVID-19-related disease and mortality due to long-standing social, political, economic, and environmental injustice; and COVID-19 inequities are exacerbated by institutional distrust. In the absence of trust, public health authorities have not adequately fulfilled their professional and ethical obligations to protect African American communities from the negative effects of COVID-19. As institutional distrust is shaped by individual and collective experiences of untrustworthiness, we propose a paradigm shift from increasing trust among African Americans to increasing trustworthiness among medical and public health institutions/systems throughout the United States. This narrative review extends the literature describing how social determinants contribute to COVID-19 inequities by demonstrating how institutional distrust develops over time and is reinforced through systems of injustice. Additionally, we illustrate consequences of institutional distrust for COVID-19 inequities and provide recommendations for building trustworthiness through ethical public health practice.
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229
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Behrman P, Fitzgibbon ML, Dulin A, Wang ML, Baskin M. Society of behavioral medicine statement on COVID-19 and rural health. Transl Behav Med 2021; 11:625-630. [PMID: 33289790 PMCID: PMC7798550 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibaa114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
This position statement provides researchers, practitioners, and policymakers an overview of pre-existing and COVID-related rural health inequities in the United States (U.S.) and how they have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. "Health deserts," defined as "large areas with inadequate or nonexistent medical and trauma facilities," are common in rural regions of the U.S. While telehealth could address some of these health-related inequities, significant gaps in broadband Internet availability are also common in these more remote areas. The Society of Behavioral Medicine urges Congress to authorize increased funding to rural healthcare facilities and staffing, along with the development of enhanced broadband Internet infrastructure. In addition, incentivizing rural healthcare systems to deliver value-based care could enhance their capacity to implement population health and behavioral health strategies. To stem the spread of COVID-19 in higher-risk rural-based industries (e.g., food processing plants), SBM urges Congress to require the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to routinely inspect for and enforce COVID-19 mitigation procedures, such as provision of effective Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to all front-line workers and consistent implementation of standardized testing and social distancing advisories. The context of rural communities underscores the importance of tailored approaches to mitigate rural health inequities and promote the well-being of rural residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Behrman
- Department of Psychology, College of Mt. St. Vincent, Bronx, NY
| | - Marian L Fitzgibbon
- Institute for Health Research and Policy, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL
| | - Akilah Dulin
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Monica L Wang
- Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Monica Baskin
- School of Medicine, Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
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Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of COVID-19 Among Urban and Rural Residents in China: A Cross-sectional Study. J Community Health 2021; 46:286-291. [PMID: 32757087 PMCID: PMC7403196 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-020-00877-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to understand the knowledge, attitudes and practices of COVID-19 in the Chinese context and to provide insights for developing targeted outbreak prevention and control measures among the general public. We conducted an online survey of urban and rural residents in Henan Province. A total of 517 valid questionnaires were collected via the online platform. The mean scores for knowledge and practice were 5.57/9 and 2.04/3, respectively. More than 90% of the participants believed COVID-19 was serious and preventable, were concerned about the disease process, and actively engaged in learning related knowledge. Our results showed that the COVID-19 knowledge level was significantly different among groups with different ages, genders, education levels and marital statuses; COVID-19 practice was significantly different among different regions. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that education level, female sex, unmarried status, and health care worker status had a significant impact on COVID-19 knowledge; urban area was associated with a higher practice score; COVID-19 knowledge was significantly associated with residents' attitude toward preventive measures that can prevent COVID-19 infection; urban area was significantly related to the willingness to go to a fever clinic to check for suspected infection. We found that Chinese urban and rural residents held a moderate level of COVID-19 knowledge and practice and showed a positive attitude toward the disease. It is necessary to develop relevant education programs targeting the general population in China to improve COVID-19-related knowledge, attitudes and practices, particularly for rural and undereducated residents.
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Defar A, Molla G, Abdella S, Tessema M, Ahmed M, Tadele A, Getachew F, Hailegiorgis B, Tigabu E, Ababor S, Bizuwork K, Deressa A, Tasaw G, Kebede A, Melese D, Gashu A, Eshetu K, Tayachew A, Wossen M, Hassen A, Habebe S, Assefa Z, Abayneh A, Abate E, Tollera G. Knowledge, practice and associated factors towards the prevention of COVID-19 among high-risk groups: A cross-sectional study in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0248420. [PMID: 33705480 PMCID: PMC7951807 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0248420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a highly transmittable virus that continues to disrupt livelihoods, particularly those of low-income segments of society, around the world. In Ethiopia, more specifically in the capital city of Addis Ababa, a sudden increase in the number of confirmed positive cases in high-risk groups of the community has been observed over the last few weeks of the first case. Therefore, this study aims to assess knowledge, practice and associated factors that can contribute to the prevention of COVID-19 among high-risk groups in Addis Ababa. METHODS A cross-sectional in person survey (n = 6007) was conducted from 14-30 April, 2020 following a prioritization within high-risk groups in Addis Ababa. The study area targeted bus stations, public transport drivers, air transport infrastructure, health facilities, public and private pharmacies, hotels, government-owned and private banks, telecom centers, trade centers, orphanages, elderly centers, prison, prisons and selected slum areas where the people live in a crowded areas. A questionnaire comprised of four sections (demographics, knowledge, practice and reported symptoms) was used for data collection. The outcomes (knowledge on the transmission and prevention of COVID-19 and practice) were measured using four items. A multi variable logistic regression was applied with adjustment for potential confounding. RESULTS About half (48%, 95% CI: 46-49) of the study participants had poor knowledge on the transmission mode of COVID-19 whereas six out of ten (60%, 95% CI: 58-61) had good knowledge on prevention methods for COVID-19. The practice of preventive measures towards COVID-19 was found to be low (49%, 95% CI: 48-50). Factors that influence knowledge on COVID-19 transmission mechanisms were female gender, older age, occupation (health care and grocery worker), lower income and the use of the 8335 free call centre. Older age, occupation (being a health worker), middle income, experience of respiratory illness and religion were significantly associated with being knowledgeable about the prevention methods for COVID-19. The study found that occupation, religion, income, knowledge on the transmission and prevention of COVID-19 were associated with the practice of precautionary measures towards COVID-19. CONCLUSION The study highlighted that there was moderate knowledge about transmission modes and prevention mechanisms. Similarly, there was moderate practice of measures that contribute towards the prevention of COVID-19 among these priority and high-risk communities of Addis Ababa. There is an urgent need to fill the knowledge gap in terms of transmission mode and prevention methods of COVID-19 to improve prevention practices and control the spread of COVID-19. Use of female public figures and religious leaders could support the effort towards the increase in awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atkure Defar
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Gebeyaw Molla
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Saro Abdella
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Muhammed Ahmed
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ashenif Tadele
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Eyasu Tigabu
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Sabit Ababor
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ketema Bizuwork
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- School of Nursing and Midwifery College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Asefa Deressa
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Geremew Tasaw
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Adisu Kebede
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Daniel Melese
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Kirubel Eshetu
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Adamu Tayachew
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mesfin Wossen
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Shambel Habebe
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Zewdu Assefa
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Ebba Abate
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Joshi D, Hill N, Hruby A, Viswanathan S, Ingo C, Roth H, Sukal-Moulton T. Stakeholder Perspectives on Engaging With Cerebral Palsy Research Studies After Onset of COVID-19 in the United States. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2021; 102:1547-1555. [PMID: 33713698 PMCID: PMC8349750 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2021.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Objective To investigate the effect of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on perspectives toward participation in cerebral palsy (CP) research. Design An online survey with questions relating to the comfort levels of research participation was filled out by people who had CP or had a child with CP. Setting The online survey was administered through Research Electronic Data Capture platform. Participants A total of 233 (n=233) individuals with CP (42.5%; n=99) or with a child with CP (57.1%; n=133) consented and at least partially completed the online survey (n=210 complete; n=23 partially complete). All participants resided in the United States. Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures Readiness to participate was analyzed in the context of the time point for research participation during COVID-19 and whether or not the study offered direct benefits to participants. Results Participants were consistently willing to participate sooner in studies that offered direct benefit than in those that did not. Adults responding for themselves had sooner time points for studies without direct benefit compared with parents answering for a child (P=.030). Gross Motor Function Classification System level, but not age or CP type, affected the time point for studies without direct benefit (P=.017). Personal values influenced selected time point for studies without direct benefit (P=.007), whereas environmental factors affected the time point for studies with direct benefit (P=.002). Local COVID-19 incidence rates were not associated with time points for either research type; however, respondents expected precautions to be taken if they chose to participate. Conclusions As the pandemic evolves, researchers should consider the perspectives of potential participants as well as ethical and safety factors when reinitiating in-person CP research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Joshi
- Department of Physical Therapy & Human Movement Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - Nayo Hill
- Department of Physical Therapy & Human Movement Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - Alexandra Hruby
- Department of Physical Therapy & Human Movement Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - Shreya Viswanathan
- Department of Physical Therapy & Human Movement Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Carson Ingo
- Department of Physical Therapy & Human Movement Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Heidi Roth
- Department of Physical Therapy & Human Movement Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL
| | - Theresa Sukal-Moulton
- Department of Physical Therapy & Human Movement Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL.
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Gebretsadik D, Gebremichael S, Belete MA. Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Toward COVID-19 Pandemic Among Population Visiting Dessie Health Center for COVID-19 Screening, Northeast Ethiopia. Infect Drug Resist 2021; 14:905-915. [PMID: 33716509 PMCID: PMC7944117 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s297047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) is currently a global health threat and an international public health emergency. As of 21 January 2021, 97.8 million cases with more than two million deaths were recorded worldwide while in Ethiopia 132,326 confirmed cases and 2057 deaths were reported. Hence, the aim of the present study was to determine the magnitude of knowledge, attitude, and practice toward COVID-19 among the population who visited the health center for COVID-19 screening. METHODS A health institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among the 384 study population visiting Dessie health center for COVID-19 screening from September 1, to October 21, 2020 using a simple random sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain information related to sociodemographic characteristics, Knowledge (eleven questions), attitude (six questions) and practice (nin questions). Both bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses with a 95% confidence interval were used to identify factors associated with poor knowledge and practice. A P-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS Out of the total study participants 61.5% were males, 52.6% of them were aged between 30 and 49 years and 85.2% of them were living in urban areas. The magnitude of poor knowledge and poor practice was 187 (48.7%) and 160 (41.7%), respectively. Poor knowledge had statistically significant association with Illiteracy (AOR= 5.53, 95%CI= 1.03-29.68, P= 0.046) and having no contact history (AOR=0.39, 95%CI=0.21-0.73, P=0.003). Statistically significant association existed between poor practice and parameters which addressed educational status, travel history, and poor knowledge level of study participants. CONCLUSION Alarmingly high poor knowledge, negatively skewed attitude, and poor practice regarding the COVID-19 pandemic was indicated. Therefore, health education programs aimed at mobilizing and improving COVID-19-related knowledge, attitude, and practice are urgently needed, especially for those who are illiterate, having travel and contact history, or generally among underprivileged populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Gebretsadik
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Saba Gebremichael
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Melaku Ashagrie Belete
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
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234
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Fujii R, Suzuki K, Niimi J. Public perceptions, individual characteristics, and preventive behaviors for COVID-19 in six countries: a cross-sectional study. Environ Health Prev Med 2021; 26:29. [PMID: 33657995 PMCID: PMC7928175 DOI: 10.1186/s12199-021-00952-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Public perceptions and personal characteristics are heterogeneous between countries and subgroups, which may have different impacts on health-protective behaviors during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. To assess whether self-reported perceptions of COVID-19 and personal characteristics are associated with protective behaviors among general adults and to compare patterns in six different countries. Methods This cross-sectional study uses the secondary data collected through an online survey between 15 and 23 April 2020 across six countries (China, Italy, Japan, Korea, the UK, and the USA). A total of 5945 adults aged 18 years or older were eligible for our analysis. A logistic regression model was used to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) of three recommended behaviors (wearing a mask, handwashing, and avoiding social gatherings). Results In most countries except for China, the participants who perceived wearing a mask as being extremely effective to curtail the pandemic were more likely to wear a mask (OR, 95%CI: Italy: 4.14, 2.08–8.02; Japan: 3.59, 1.75–7.30; Korea: 7.89, 1.91–31.63: UK: 9.23, 5.14–17.31; USA: 4.81, 2.61–8.92). Those who perceived that handwashing was extremely effective had higher ORs of this preventive behavior (OR, 95%CI: Italy: 16.39, 3.56–70.18; Japan: 12.24, 4.03–37.35; Korea: 12.41, 2.02–76.39; UK: 18.04, 2.60–152.78; USA: 10.56, 2.21–44.32). The participants who perceived avoiding social gathering as being extremely effective to curtail the pandemic were more likely to take this type of preventive behavior (OR, 95%CI: China: 3.79, 1.28–10.23; Korea: 6.18, 1.77–20.60; UK: 4.45, 1.63–11.63; USA: 4.34, 1.84–9.95). The associations between personal characteristics, living environment, psychological status, and preventive behaviors varied across different countries. Individuals who changed their behavior because of recommendations from doctors/public health officials were more likely to take preventive behaviors in many countries. Conclusions These findings suggest that higher perceived effectiveness may be a common factor to encourage preventive behaviors in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. These results may provide a better understanding of the homogeneity and heterogeneity of factors related to preventive behaviors and improve public health policies in various countries and groups. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12199-021-00952-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Fujii
- Department of Preventive Medical Sciences, Fujita Health University School of Medical Sciences, 1-98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, 470-1192, Japan.
| | - Kensuke Suzuki
- Department of Economics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Junichiro Niimi
- Department of Business Management, Meijo University, 1-501 Shiogamaguchi, Tempaku-ku, Nagoya, 468-8502, Japan
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Gondo GC, Bell SJ, Slayden J, Ullmann G, Blauvelt A. Concerns and perceptions of patients with psoriatic disease during the COVID-19 pandemic: results from a two-wave survey by the National Psoriasis Foundation. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2021; 35:e354-e355. [PMID: 33587770 PMCID: PMC8013622 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.17173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- G C Gondo
- National Psoriasis Foundation, Portland, OR, USA
| | - S J Bell
- National Psoriasis Foundation, Portland, OR, USA
| | - J Slayden
- National Psoriasis Foundation, Portland, OR, USA
| | - G Ullmann
- National Psoriasis Foundation, Portland, OR, USA
| | - A Blauvelt
- Oregon Medical Research Center, Portland, OR, USA
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Economic Stressors, COVID-19 Attitudes, Worry, and Behaviors among U.S. Working Adults: A Mixture Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18052338. [PMID: 33673637 PMCID: PMC7967737 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18052338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Since the unfolding of the novel coronavirus global pandemic, public health research has increasingly suggested that certain groups of individuals may be more exposed to the virus. The aim of this contribution was to investigate whether workers grouped into several latent classes, based on two perceived economic stressors, would report different levels of enactment of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommended behaviors to prevent the spread of such virus. We also tested propositions regarding the potential differential predictors of compliance behavior, differentiating between cognitive (i.e., attitudes toward the CDC guidelines) and affective (i.e., COVID-specific worry) predictors. Using a longitudinal dataset of 419 U.S. workers, we did not find significant differences among the levels of CDC guidelines enactment across three latent classes, representing a range of economic vulnerability. We found that cognitive attitudes were a significantly stronger predictor of compliance with CDC guidelines for workers in the most economically secure class, whereas worry was a significantly stronger predictor of compliance for the most vulnerable counterpart. We discuss these findings in light of the Conservation of Resources theory and other health behavior theories, being mindful of the need to further understand the differential impact of this health and economic crisis on employees facing economic stressors.
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Masoud AT, Zaazouee MS, Elsayed SM, Ragab KM, Kamal EM, Alnasser YT, Assar A, Nourelden AZ, Istatiah LJ, Abd-Elgawad MM, Abdelsattar AT, Sofy AA, Hegazy DG, Femía VZ, Mendonça AR, Sayed FM, Elmoursi A, Alareidi A, Abd-Eltawab AK, Abdelmonem M, Mohammed OM, Derballa EA, El-Fas KA, Abdel-Daim MM, Abushouk AI. KAP-COVID GLOBAL: a multinational survey of the levels and determinants of public knowledge, attitudes and practices towards COVID-19. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e043971. [PMID: 33622949 PMCID: PMC7907623 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-043971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The adherence to public health recommendations to control COVID-19 spread is influenced by public knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP). We performed this cross-sectional study to assess the levels and determinants of public KAP towards COVID-19 in a large, multinational sample. DESIGN Cross-sectional study (survey). SETTING The questionnaire was distributed to potential respondents via online platforms. PARTICIPANTS 71 890 individuals from 22 countries. METHODS We formulated a four-section questionnaire in English, followed by validation and translation into seven languages. The questionnaire was distributed (May to June 2020) and each participant received a score for each KAP section. RESULTS Overall, the participants had fair knowledge (mean score: 19.24±3.59) and attitudes (3.72±2.31) and good practices (12.12±1.83) regarding COVID-19. About 92% reported moderate to high compliance with national lockdown. However, significant gaps were observed: only 68.2% knew that infected individuals may be asymptomatic; 45.4% believed that antibiotics are an effective treatment; and 55.4% stated that a vaccine has been developed (at the time of data collection). 71.9% believed or were uncertain that COVID-19 is a global conspiracy; 36.8% and 51% were afraid of contacting doctors and Chinese people, respectively. Further, 66.4% reported the pandemic had moderate to high negative effects on their mental health. Female gender, higher education and urban residents had significantly (p≤0.001) higher knowledge and practice scores. Further, we observed significant correlations between all KAP scores. CONCLUSIONS Although the public have fair/good knowledge and practices regarding COVID-19, significant gaps should be addressed. Future awareness efforts should target less advantaged groups and future studies should develop new strategies to tackle COVID-19 negative mental health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Esraa M Kamal
- Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt
| | - Yusra T Alnasser
- Faculty of Medicine, Damascus University, Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic
| | - Ahmed Assar
- Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt
| | | | | | | | | | - Ahmed A Sofy
- Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt
| | - Doaa G Hegazy
- Global Clinical Scholars Research Training, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Victor Z Femía
- Universidade do Vale do Sapucaí, Pouso Alegre, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Fatma M Sayed
- Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Elmoursi
- College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Alaa Alareidi
- School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Kareem A El-Fas
- College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed M Abdel-Daim
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
- College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdelrahman I Abushouk
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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238
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Benham JL, Lang R, Kovacs Burns K, MacKean G, Léveillé T, McCormack B, Sheikh H, Fullerton MM, Tang T, Boucher JC, Constantinescu C, Mourali M, Oxoby RJ, Manns BJ, Hu J, Marshall DA. Attitudes, current behaviours and barriers to public health measures that reduce COVID-19 transmission: A qualitative study to inform public health messaging. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0246941. [PMID: 33606782 PMCID: PMC7895406 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0246941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Public health measures to reduce COVID-19 transmission include masking in public places, physical distancing, staying home when ill, avoiding high-risk locations, using a contact tracing app, and being willing to take a COVID-19 vaccine. However, adoption of these measures varies greatly. We aimed to improve health messaging to increase adherence to public health behaviours to reduce COVID-19 transmission by: 1) determining attitudes towards public health measures and current behaviours; 2) identifying barriers to following public health measures; and, 3) identifying public health communication strategies. We recruited participants from a random panel of 3000 phone numbers across Alberta to fill a predetermined quota: age (18-29; 30-59; 60+ years), geographic location (urban; rural), and whether they had school-age children. Two researchers coded and themed all transcripts. We performed content analysis and in-depth thematic analysis. Nine focus groups were conducted with 2-8 participants/group in August-September, 2020. Several themes were identified: 1) importance of public health measures; 2) compliance with public health measures; 3) critiques of public health messaging; and 4) suggestions for improving public health messaging. Physical distancing and masking were seen as more important than using a contact tracing app. There were mixed views around willingness to take COVID-19 vaccine. Current public health messaging was perceived as conflicting. Participants felt that consistent messaging and using social media to reach younger people would be helpful. In conclusion, these findings provide insights that can be used to inform targeted (e.g., by age, current behaviour) public health communications to encourage behaviors that reduce COVID-19 transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie L. Benham
- Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Raynell Lang
- Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Katharina Kovacs Burns
- Data & Analytics, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Gail MacKean
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Tova Léveillé
- Data & Analytics, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | | - Hasan Sheikh
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Madison M. Fullerton
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Theresa Tang
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jean-Christophe Boucher
- School of Public Policy and Department of Political Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Cora Constantinescu
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Mehdi Mourali
- Haskayne School of Business, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Robert J. Oxoby
- Department of Economics, Faculty of Arts, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Braden J. Manns
- Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jia Hu
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Deborah A. Marshall
- Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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239
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Boguszewski R, Makowska M, Podkowińska M. A Typology of Poles' Attitudes toward COVID-19 during the First Wave of the Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:2002. [PMID: 33669545 PMCID: PMC7922647 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18042002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
(1) Objective: To explore Poles' attitudes during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 as a contribution toward the creation of effective health policies. (2) Method: Computer-assisted web interviewing (CAWI) was used to survey a sample of 1001 Poles selected using quota sampling. (3) Results: Using cluster analysis, three types of attitudes were distinguished, people being classified as "involved" (48.1%), "cautious" (27.4%), or "indifferent" (24.6%). The result of greatest interest was the absence of any attitude indicating an extremely dismissive posture toward COVID-19. Three logistic regression analyses, comparing people displaying each attitude with those comparing the other two attitudes combined, showed that an involved attitude was likely to be associated with being female, being in a poorer financial situation, but having relatively high life satisfaction. A cautious attitude was more likely to appear in places with fewer residents and among people in a favorable financial situation, and that an indifferent attitude was more likely to be associated with being male and having lower life satisfaction. (4) Conclusions: The attitudes identified may help to explain why, during the spring of 2020, the virus was spreading slightly more slowly, and on a narrower scale, in Poland than in other countries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marta Makowska
- Department of Sociology, Institute of Sociological Sciences and Pedagogy, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska 166 St., 02-787 Warsaw, Poland; (R.B.); (M.P.)
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Dabone C, Mbagwu I, Muray M, Ubangha L, Kohoun B, Etowa E, Nare H, Kiros G, Etowa J. Global Food Insecurity and African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) Populations During the COVID-19 Pandemic: a Rapid Review. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40615-021-00973-1 [doi]] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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241
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Batty GD, Deary IJ, Gale CR. Pre-pandemic cognitive function and COVID-19 mortality: prospective cohort study. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2021:2021.02.07.21251082. [PMID: 33564786 PMCID: PMC7872381 DOI: 10.1101/2021.02.07.21251082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Background Poorer performance on standard tests of cognitive function is related to an elevated risk of death from lower respiratory tract infections. Whether pre-pandemic measures of cognition are related to COVID-19 mortality is untested. Methods UK Biobank, a prospective cohort study, comprises around half a million people who were aged 40 to 69 years at study induction between 2006 and 2010 when a reaction time test was administered to the full sample, and verbal-numeric reasoning assessed in a subgroup. Death from COVID-19 was ascertained from participant linkage to a UK-wide national registry. Results Between April 1st and September 23rd 2020, there were 388 deaths (138 women) ascribed to COVID-19 in the 494,932 individuals (269,602 women) with a reaction time test result, and 125 such deaths (38 women) in the 180,198 (97,794 women) for whom there were data on verbal-numeric reasoning. In analyses adjusted for age, sex, and ethnicity, a one standard deviation (118.2 msec) slower reaction time was related to a higher rate of death from COVID-19 (hazard ratio; 95% confidence interval: 1.18; 1.09, 1.28). A one standard deviation disadvantage (2.16 point) on the verbal-numeric reasoning test was also associated with an elevated risk of death (1.32; 1.09, 1.59). Attenuation after adjustment for additional covariates followed a similar pattern for both measures of cognition. For verbal-numeric reasoning, for instance, the hazard ratios were 1.22 (0.98, 1.51) after control for socioeconomic status, 1.16 (0.96, 1.41) after lifestyle factors, 1.25 (1.04, 1.52) after co-morbidity, and 1.29 (1.01, 1.64) after physiological indices. Conclusions In the present study, poorer performance on two pre-pandemic indicators of cognitive function, including reaction time, a knowledge-reduced measure, was related to death ascribed to COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- G David Batty
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, UK
| | - Ian J Deary
- Lothian Birth Cohorts, Department of Psychology, University of Edinburgh, UK
| | - Catharine R Gale
- Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, UK; Lothian Birth Cohorts, Department of Psychology, University of Edinburgh, UK
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Shehata MA, Adel A, Armaneous AF, EL-Sonbaty MM, Abdel Atti M, El-Hariri HM, Kamel IH. Egyptian school children awareness and precautions in Covid19 pandemic: a cross sectional survey study. BULLETIN OF THE NATIONAL RESEARCH CENTRE 2021; 45:39. [PMID: 33584092 PMCID: PMC7868862 DOI: 10.1186/s42269-021-00495-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 (Corona Virus Disease 2019) is showing a wide global spread, and urgent joint international efforts is required to the control of this pandemic, the awareness of people towards infectious viruses still the main factor to limit the widespread of disease. The aim of this study is to assess the level of awareness and attitude towards COVID-19 among a sample of Egyptian school children, using a web-based questionnaire. RESULTS A total of 708 participants were involved in this online survey study, representing different areas in Egypt, 378 males (53.4%), 330 females (46.5%); their age range between 6 and 18 years. Regarding the residence, 576 (81.4%) were from urban areas, the remaining 132 (18.6%) were from non-urban areas. Internet and media were more frequent used as a source of information in urban students. The knowledge level score of risk and prevention of the disease were significantly higher in urban students than in non-urban students. Healthy practice score ≥ 50 were significantly more frequent in urban students. Healthy practice score was non-significantly higher in urban students. CONCLUSIONS Most of the study participants of school students are knowledgeable about basic information, and have cautious preventive practices towards COVID-19, denoting the efficacy of the public health efforts. However, the lower level of awareness in non-urbans, indicating a need to address alternative channels to communicate with these populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manal A. Shehata
- Department of Child Health, National Research Centre, El-Bohouth Street, Dokki, Cairo, 12622 Egypt
| | - Ahmed Adel
- Department of Child Health, National Research Centre, El-Bohouth Street, Dokki, Cairo, 12622 Egypt
| | - Ayman F. Armaneous
- Department of Child Health, National Research Centre, El-Bohouth Street, Dokki, Cairo, 12622 Egypt
| | - Mohamed M. EL-Sonbaty
- Department of Child Health, National Research Centre, El-Bohouth Street, Dokki, Cairo, 12622 Egypt
| | - Mohamed Abdel Atti
- Department of Child Health, National Research Centre, El-Bohouth Street, Dokki, Cairo, 12622 Egypt
| | | | - Iman H. Kamel
- Department of Child Health, National Research Centre, El-Bohouth Street, Dokki, Cairo, 12622 Egypt
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Dabone C, Mbagwu I, Muray M, Ubangha L, Kohoun B, Etowa E, Nare H, Kiros G, Etowa J. Global Food Insecurity and African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) Populations During the COVID-19 Pandemic: a Rapid Review. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2021; 9:420-435. [PMID: 33559109 PMCID: PMC7870023 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-021-00973-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background The global food insecurity reinforces the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on human health and mortality. Although literature remained sparse, reports indicated that food insecurity is disproportionately high among African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) population since the outset of COVID-19. Hence, we assessed the food insecurity conditions of ACB populations globally during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Comprehensive searches in CINAHL, Medline (Ovid), PubMed (Medline), Food Science and Technology Abstracts, SCOPUS, EMBASE, AMED, CAB Abstracts, Cochrane Library (OVID), and PsycINFO were carried out. Title/abstract and full-text screening, quality appraisal (modified JBI QARI), and data extraction were carried out by double reviewers. Results The initial search yielded 354 articles. After removal of duplicates and irrelevant articles, a full-text review and critical appraisal, 9 papers were included in the study. After data extraction and synthesis, six major themes emerged from the analysis: increased food insecurity, adverse health outcomes of food insecurity, exacerbation of existing disparities, systemic inequities and adverse policies, racism, and sociocultural response and solutions. Conclusion/implications The study showed that COVID-19 had exacerbated food insecurity and other health disparities within racialized populations including ACB people, due to systemic anti-Black racism; inadequate representation in decision-making; and issues of cultural appropriateness and competency of health services. While sociocultural response by ACB people through the expansion of their social capital is imperative, specific policies easing access to food, medicine, and shelter for racialized communities will ensure equity while reducing global food insecurity and health crises during the COVID-19 pandemic. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40615-021-00973-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Dabone
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada. .,Canadians of African Descent Health Organization (CADHO), Ottawa, Canada.
| | - Ikenna Mbagwu
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada. .,Canadians of African Descent Health Organization (CADHO), Ottawa, Canada.
| | - Mwali Muray
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,Canadians of African Descent Health Organization (CADHO), Ottawa, Canada
| | - Lovelyn Ubangha
- Canadians of African Descent Health Organization (CADHO), Ottawa, Canada
| | - Bagnini Kohoun
- Canadians of African Descent Health Organization (CADHO), Ottawa, Canada.,Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Egbe Etowa
- Canadians of African Descent Health Organization (CADHO), Ottawa, Canada.,Department of Sociology, Anthropology & Criminology, Faculty of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences, University of Windsor, Windsor, Canada
| | - Hilary Nare
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,Canadians of African Descent Health Organization (CADHO), Ottawa, Canada
| | - Getachew Kiros
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,Canadians of African Descent Health Organization (CADHO), Ottawa, Canada
| | - Josephine Etowa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,Canadians of African Descent Health Organization (CADHO), Ottawa, Canada
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Chan EYY, Dubois C, Fong AHY, Shaw R, Chatterjee R, Dabral A, Loyzaga A, Kim YK, Hung KKC, Wong CS. Reflection of Challenges and Opportunities within the COVID-19 Pandemic to Include Biological Hazards into DRR Planning. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:1614. [PMID: 33567697 PMCID: PMC7915833 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18041614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 has reinforced the need to revisit the integration of health within disaster risk reduction (DRR) strategies for biological hazards in a system-wide approach. In November 2020, DRR experts attended the Asia-Pacific Partnership for Disaster Risk Reduction (APP-DRR) Forum to share progress and learnings in the areas of health system resilience, data management, residual risk management, risk communication, digital literacy, and knowledge product marketing. Advancements for health in DRR included the importance of multi-sectoral, multi-hazard action plans; adaptation to technological advancements in data collection, dissemination and protection; promoting the health and wellbeing of essential and nonprofessional workers; and improving inclusivity in digital literacy. COVID-19 has affected progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and created a unique opportunity within DRR to re-evaluate the adequacy of response mechanisms against concurrent, cascading or interacting risks of future biological hazards. Health emergency disaster risk management (Health-EDRM) is a new World Health Organization paradigm that includes DRR at intra-, inter- and multidisciplinary levels. Scientific advancement under Health-EDRM is necessary for health and non-health actors in DRR education and research. Continuous education on the multifaceted risk governance is a key to building awareness, capacity and accelerating towards achieving the international DRR and the SDG targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Ying Yang Chan
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response (CCOUC), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (K.K.C.H.); (C.S.W.)
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX37BN, UK
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China;
- GX Foundation, Hong Kong, China;
- Accident & Emergency Medicine Academic Unit, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Caroline Dubois
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China;
- GX Foundation, Hong Kong, China;
| | | | - Rajib Shaw
- Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, Fujisawa 252-0882, Japan;
- Resilience Innovation Knowledge Academy (RIKA), New Delhi 110059, India or (R.C.); (A.D.)
| | - Ranit Chatterjee
- Resilience Innovation Knowledge Academy (RIKA), New Delhi 110059, India or (R.C.); (A.D.)
- Graduate School of Informatics, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Ambika Dabral
- Resilience Innovation Knowledge Academy (RIKA), New Delhi 110059, India or (R.C.); (A.D.)
| | | | - Yong-kyun Kim
- Ministry of Interior and Safety, Sejong 30128, Korea;
| | - Kevin Kei Ching Hung
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response (CCOUC), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (K.K.C.H.); (C.S.W.)
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China;
- Accident & Emergency Medicine Academic Unit, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chi Shing Wong
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response (CCOUC), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (K.K.C.H.); (C.S.W.)
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China;
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Mills KT, Peacock E, Chen J, Zimmerman A, He H, Cyprian A, Davis G, Fuqua SR, Gilliam DS, Greer A, Gray‐Winfrey L, Williams S, Wiltz GM, Winfrey KL, Whelton PK, Krousel‐Wood M, He J. Experiences and Beliefs of Low-Income Patients With Hypertension in Louisiana and Mississippi During the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Am Heart Assoc 2021; 10:e018510. [PMID: 33267723 PMCID: PMC7955429 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.018510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic disproportionately affects individuals with hypertension and health disparities. Methods and Results We assessed the experiences and beliefs of low-income and minority patients with hypertension during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants (N=587) from the IMPACTS-BP (Implementation of Multifaceted Patient-Centered Treatment Strategies for Intensive Blood Pressure Control) study completed a telephone survey in May and June of 2020. Participants were 65.1% Black and 59.7% female, and 57.7% reported an income below the federal poverty level. Overall, 2.7% tested positive and 15.3% had lost a family member or friend to COVID-19. These experiences were significantly more common in Black (3.9% and 19.4%, respectively) than in non-Black participants (0.5% and 7.8%, respectively). In addition, 14.5% lost a job and 15.9% reported food shortages during the pandemic. Most participants complied with stay-at-home orders (98.3%), social distancing (97.8%), and always wearing a mask outside their home (74.6%). Participants also reported high access to needed health care (94.7%) and prescription medications (97.6%). Furthermore, 95.7% of respondents reported that they continued to take their regular dosage of antihypertensive medications. Among the 44.5% of participants receiving a healthcare appointment by telehealth, 96.6% got the help they needed, and 80.8% reported that the appointment quality was as good as or better than in-person visits. Finally, 88.9% were willing to return to their primary care clinic. Conclusions These data suggest that low-income patients, especially Black patients, were negatively impacted by COVID-19. However, most patients were able to access needed healthcare services and were willing to return to their primary care clinic for hypertension management. Registration URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT03483662.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine T. Mills
- Department of EpidemiologyTulane University School of Public Health and Tropical MedicineNew OrleansLA
- Tulane University Translational Sciences InstituteNew OrleansLA
| | - Erin Peacock
- Department of MedicineTulane University School of MedicineNew OrleansLA
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of EpidemiologyTulane University School of Public Health and Tropical MedicineNew OrleansLA
- Tulane University Translational Sciences InstituteNew OrleansLA
- Department of MedicineTulane University School of MedicineNew OrleansLA
| | - Amanda Zimmerman
- Department of EpidemiologyTulane University School of Public Health and Tropical MedicineNew OrleansLA
| | - Hua He
- Department of EpidemiologyTulane University School of Public Health and Tropical MedicineNew OrleansLA
- Tulane University Translational Sciences InstituteNew OrleansLA
| | | | | | - Sonja R. Fuqua
- Community Health Center Association of MississippiJacksonMS
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Paul K. Whelton
- Department of EpidemiologyTulane University School of Public Health and Tropical MedicineNew OrleansLA
- Tulane University Translational Sciences InstituteNew OrleansLA
- Department of MedicineTulane University School of MedicineNew OrleansLA
| | - Marie Krousel‐Wood
- Department of EpidemiologyTulane University School of Public Health and Tropical MedicineNew OrleansLA
- Tulane University Translational Sciences InstituteNew OrleansLA
- Department of MedicineTulane University School of MedicineNew OrleansLA
| | - Jiang He
- Department of EpidemiologyTulane University School of Public Health and Tropical MedicineNew OrleansLA
- Tulane University Translational Sciences InstituteNew OrleansLA
- Department of MedicineTulane University School of MedicineNew OrleansLA
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Amsalu B, Guta A, Seyoum Z, Kassie N, Sema A, Dejene W, Fikadu Woldemedhen Y, Kasahun M, Sintayehu Y, Belay Y. Practice of COVID-19 Prevention Measures and Associated Factors Among Residents of Dire Dawa City, Eastern Ethiopia: Community-Based Study. J Multidiscip Healthc 2021; 14:219-228. [PMID: 33564238 PMCID: PMC7866932 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s292409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION COVID-19 is a current health concern in the world. People applying the prevention methods of COVID-19 are vital determinants of curbing the spread of the coronavirus. This study aimed to assess the practices and associated factors of the COVID-19 preventive measures among Dire Dawa residents. METHODS A community-based, cross-sectional mixed method was used. We conducted the study between June 15th and July 15th, 2020. The subjects of the study were selected by using systematic random sampling. We collected data through face-to-face and in-depth interviews. Both bivariate and multiple logistic regression were employed to determine the predictor variables with the practice of COVID-19 prevention measures. Thematic content analysis analyzed qualitative data. RESULTS The practice of COVID-19 preventive measures was 40.7% (95% CI: 37-44.4%). Being female [AOR= 1.8; 95% CI: 1.17-2.72], married [AOR=2.75; 95% CI: 1.68-4.48], family income >10,000 Ethiopia birr [AOR=7.3; 95% CI: 3.8-13.9], having history of a chronic disease [AOR=3.46 (1.69, 7.08)], not chewing khat [AOR= 2.15; 95% CI: 1.1-4.2], had a good knowledge about COVID-19 [AOR=5.23; 95% CI: 3-9], and had a favorable attitude about COVID-19 [AOR=3.87; 95% CI: 2.4-6.14] were significantly associated with practice of COVID-19 preventive measures. The qualitative result revealed the communities are not willingly practicing prevention measures because of carelessness and ignorant of the consequences of COVID-19, and some communities believed that COVID-19 is not a real pandemic rather government uses it merely to gain political profit. CONCLUSION The proportion of practice of COVID-19 preventive measures was low. Sex, marital status, income, history of chronic disease, history of khat chewing, knowledge, and attitude about COVID-19 were associated factors with COVID-19 preventive practices. The communities were not practicing the COVID-19 prevention method because of poor knowledge and a negative attitude.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bezabih Amsalu
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dire Dawa University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
| | - Alemu Guta
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dire Dawa University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
| | - Zinabie Seyoum
- College of Social Science and Humanities, Dire Dawa University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
| | - Nigus Kassie
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dire Dawa University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
| | - Alekaw Sema
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dire Dawa University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
| | - Wondifraw Dejene
- College of Social Science and Humanities, Dire Dawa University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Mekdes Kasahun
- College of Social Science and Humanities, Dire Dawa University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
| | - Yitagesu Sintayehu
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dire Dawa University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
| | - Yalelet Belay
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dire Dawa University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
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Badahdah A, Khamis F, Al Mahyijari N, Al Balushi M, Al Hatmi H, Al Salmi I, Albulushi Z, Al Noomani J. The mental health of health care workers in Oman during the COVID-19 pandemic. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2021; 67:90-95. [PMID: 32635837 PMCID: PMC8191150 DOI: 10.1177/0020764020939596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 disease is one of the most destructive events that humanity has witnessed in the 21st century. It has impacted all aspects of life and all segments of populations, including already vulnerable health care providers. AIMS This study sought to detect the prevalence of mental health issues in sample of physicians and nurses working in several health facilities in Oman. METHOD We gauged the mental health conditions of 509 physicians (38.1%) and nurses (61.9 %) using the Perceived Stress Scale, Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale and World Health Organization Well-Being Index. RESULTS The study revealed a high prevalence of stress, anxiety and poor psychological well-being, especially among females, young health care workers and those who interacted with known or suspected COVID-19 patients. CONCLUSION The outcomes of this study support the handful of studies published during this global health crisis that have found that the mental health of health care workers has been harshly affected and predicted that it will continue, to various degrees, to be affected in the foreseeable future. The results of this study highlight the urgency of providing administrative and psychological support as well as current and accurate information on COVID-19 to health care workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdallah Badahdah
- South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD, USA
- Abdallah Badahdah, South Dakota State University, Hansen Hall 004, Brookings, SD 57007-2201, USA.
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Matterne U, Egger N, Tempes J, Tischer C, Lander J, Dierks ML, Bitzer EM, Apfelbacher C. Health literacy in the general population in the context of epidemic or pandemic coronavirus outbreak situations: Rapid scoping review. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2021; 104:223-234. [PMID: 33109429 PMCID: PMC7547635 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2020.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this rapid scoping review, for which only studies from the general population were considered, was to describe the extent of existing research on HL in the context of previous coronavirus outbreaks (SARS-CoV-1, MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2). METHODS We searched major databases and included publications of quantitative and qualitative studies in English and German on any type of research on the functional, critical and communicative domains of HL conducted in the context of the three outbreaks in the general population. We extracted and tabulated relevant data and narratively reported where and when the study was conducted, the design and method used, and how HL was measured. RESULTS 72 studies were included. Three investigated HL or explicitly referred to the concept of HL, 14 were guided by health behaviour theory. We did not find any study designed to develop or psychometrically evaluate pandemic/epidemic HL instruments, or relate pandemic/epidemic or general HL to a pandemic/epidemic outcome, or any controlled intervention study. Type of assessment of the domains of HL varied widely. CONCLUSION Theory-driven observational studies and interventions, examining whether pandemic-related HL can be improved are needed. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS The development and validation of instruments that measure pandemic-related HL is desirable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uwe Matterne
- Institute of Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Medical Faculty, Otto Von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Nina Egger
- Department of Public Health and Health Education, Freiburg University of Education, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jana Tempes
- Department of Public Health and Health Education, Freiburg University of Education, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christina Tischer
- Institute of Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Medical Faculty, Otto Von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Jonas Lander
- Institute for Epidemiology, Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marie-Luise Dierks
- Institute for Epidemiology, Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Eva-Maria Bitzer
- Department of Public Health and Health Education, Freiburg University of Education, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christian Apfelbacher
- Institute of Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Medical Faculty, Otto Von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Family Medicine and Primary Care, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore
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Pal R, Yadav U, Verma A, Bhadada SK. Awareness regarding COVID-19 and problems being faced by young adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus amid nationwide lockdown in India: A qualitative interview study. Prim Care Diabetes 2021; 15:10-15. [PMID: 32660907 PMCID: PMC7351665 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcd.2020.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
AIMS To assess the awareness about COVID-19 and the problems being faced by young adults with T1DM amid nationwide lockdown in India. METHODS A cross-sectional telephone-based qualitative interview study was conducted in young adults (aged 18-30 years) with T1DM amid lockdown. Following verbal consent, participants were asked 8 open-ended questions, 5 on awareness about COVID-19 and 3 catering to problems being faced concerning diet, physical activity and treatment amid lockdown. On average, 3 interviews were conducted per day with each lasting for 15-20 min. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analyzed by qualitative content analysis. RESULTS Thirty-two participants were interviewed; after exclusion of two poorly recorded interviews, 30 were finally analyzed. Mean age of participants was 22.4 ± 4.0 years (M:F = 8:7). Only 30%, 40% and 53% of participants were aware of modes of transmission (respiratory droplets and fomites), cardinal symptoms (fever, cough and breathing difficulty) and means of prevention (staying indoors, social distancing and regular hand washing), respectively. Majority of participants were unaware of additional risks associated with COVID-19 in diabetes mellitus. Most participants could continue with their routine diet and prescribed treatment regime, however, 90% reported a reduction in physical activity and 72% experienced worsening of glycemic control amid lockdown. CONCLUSIONS Young adults with T1DM lack adequate awareness about COVID-19. Increasing awareness and imparting diabetes self-management education via digital/print media is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rimesh Pal
- Department of Endocrinology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160012 India
| | - Urmila Yadav
- National Institute of Nursing Education, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160012 India
| | - Anmol Verma
- Department of Endocrinology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160012 India
| | - Sanjay K Bhadada
- Department of Endocrinology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160012 India.
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Takoudjou Dzomo GR, Bernales M, López R, Djofang Kamga Y, Kila Roskem JP, Deassal Mondjimbaye F, Nanbolngar J, Modode R, Rongar R, Diba F, Toglengar M, Ongolo JP, Gómez-Vírseda C. Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Regarding COVID‑19 in N'Djamena, Chad. J Community Health 2021; 46:259-266. [PMID: 33484402 PMCID: PMC7823177 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-021-00963-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The first African COVID-19 case was reported in Egypt in February 2020. Since then, Sub-Saharan countries have struggled to respond to the pandemic. Among them, Chad is characterized by a high rate of poverty and mortality, a high burden of infectious diseases, insufficient epidemiological surveillance and underdeveloped infrastructure. In this study, we explore the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAPs) regarding COVID-19 within the Chadian population, to determine whether there are more vulnerable groups of the population that require greater attention from authorities. This study was designed as a cross-sectional survey conducted in N'Djamena, Chad, using a convenience sampling technique that included 2269 participants. The study was conducted in May and August 2020. Questions regarding technical concepts were answered incorrectly by most participants (83.65%). The population had better knowledge about concrete aspects of the pandemics, such as prevention measures and contagion. Regarding attitudes, 34.55% participants were very concerned about the possibility of being infected, 81.27% were unsatisfied/very unsatisfied with their social relationships after the pandemic began, and 68.44% thought that the pandemic was a disturbing/very disturbing issue. As for practices, 49.41% of men followed all preventive measures compared to 32.07% of women, and 3.04% of people with vulnerable jobs did not respect any of preventive measures compared to 1.19% of people without this condition. Gender, job conditions and educational level impact KAPs within the Chadian population. It is suggested that local authorities in Chad should consider these variables when developing health strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rodrigo López
- Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | | | | | | | | | - Richard Modode
- University Hospital Complex "Le Bon Samaritain", N'Djamena, Chad
| | - Roger Rongar
- University Hospital Complex "Le Bon Samaritain", N'Djamena, Chad
| | - Faro Diba
- University Hospital Complex "Le Bon Samaritain", N'Djamena, Chad
| | | | | | - Carlos Gómez-Vírseda
- Centre for Biomedical Law and Ethics, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35/3, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
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