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Maaß L, Angoumis K, Freye M, Pan CC. Mapping Digital Public Health Interventions Among Existing Digital Technologies and Internet-Based Interventions to Maintain and Improve Population Health in Practice: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2024; 26:e53927. [PMID: 39018096 PMCID: PMC11292160 DOI: 10.2196/53927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rapid progression and integration of digital technologies into public health have reshaped the global landscape of health care delivery and disease prevention. In pursuit of better population health and health care accessibility, many countries have integrated digital interventions into their health care systems, such as web-based consultations, electronic health records, and telemedicine. Despite the increasing prevalence and relevance of digital technologies in public health and their varying definitions, there has been a shortage of studies examining whether these technologies align with the established definition and core characteristics of digital public health (DiPH) interventions. Hence, the imperative need for a scoping review emerges to explore the breadth of literature dedicated to this subject. OBJECTIVE This scoping review aims to outline DiPH interventions from different implementation stages for health promotion, primary to tertiary prevention, including health care and disease surveillance and monitoring. In addition, we aim to map the reported intervention characteristics, including their technical features and nontechnical elements. METHODS Original studies or reports of DiPH intervention focused on population health were eligible for this review. PubMed, Web of Science, CENTRAL, IEEE Xplore, and the ACM Full-Text Collection were searched for relevant literature (last updated on October 5, 2022). Intervention characteristics of each identified DiPH intervention, such as target groups, level of prevention or health care, digital health functions, intervention types, and public health functions, were extracted and used to map DiPH interventions. MAXQDA 2022.7 (VERBI GmbH) was used for qualitative data analysis of such interventions' technical functions and nontechnical characteristics. RESULTS In total, we identified and screened 15,701 records, of which 1562 (9.94%) full texts were considered relevant and were assessed for eligibility. Finally, we included 185 (11.84%) publications, which reported 179 different DiPH interventions. Our analysis revealed a diverse landscape of interventions, with telemedical services, health apps, and electronic health records as dominant types. These interventions targeted a wide range of populations and settings, demonstrating their adaptability. The analysis highlighted the multifaceted nature of digital interventions, necessitating precise definitions and standardized terminologies for effective collaboration and evaluation. CONCLUSIONS Although this scoping review was able to map characteristics and technical functions among 13 intervention types in DiPH, emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence might have been underrepresented in our study. This review underscores the diversity of DiPH interventions among and within intervention groups. Moreover, it highlights the importance of precise terminology for effective planning and evaluation. This review promotes cross-disciplinary collaboration by emphasizing the need for clear definitions, distinct technological functions, and well-defined use cases. It lays the foundation for international benchmarks and comparability within DiPH systems. Further research is needed to map intervention characteristics in this still-evolving field continuously. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42021265562; https://tinyurl.com/43jksb3k. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.2196/33404.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Maaß
- University of Bremen, SOCIUM Research Center on Inequality and Social Policy, Bremen, Germany
- Leibniz ScienceCampus Digital Public Health Bremen, Bremen, Germany
- Digital Health Section, European Public Health Association - EUPHA, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Konstantinos Angoumis
- University of Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany
- Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS, Bremen, Germany
| | - Merle Freye
- Leibniz ScienceCampus Digital Public Health Bremen, Bremen, Germany
- University of Bremen, Institute for Information, Health and Medical Law - IGMR, Bremen, Germany
| | - Chen-Chia Pan
- Leibniz ScienceCampus Digital Public Health Bremen, Bremen, Germany
- Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS, Bremen, Germany
- University of Bremen, Institute for Public Health and Nursing Research - IPP, Bremen, Germany
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Zhang W, Wong CKH, Xin Y, Fong DYT, Wong JYH. A Web-Based Sexual Health Intervention to Prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections in Hong Kong: Model-Based Cost-Effectiveness Analysis. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e45054. [PMID: 37561571 PMCID: PMC10450529 DOI: 10.2196/45054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a significant public health concern, particularly among young adults, and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infections are the most common STIs in young women. One of the most effective ways to prevent STIs is the consistent use of condoms during sexual intercourse. There has been no economic evaluation of the interactive web-based sexual health program, Smart Girlfriend, within the Chinese population. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the long-term cost-effectiveness of Smart Girlfriend in preventing STIs in the Chinese population. The evaluation compared the program with a control intervention that used a 1-page information sheet on condom use. METHODS A decision-analytic model that included a decision tree followed by a Markov structure of CT infections was developed since CT is the most prevalent STI among young women. The model represents the long-term experience of individuals who received either the intervention or the control. One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted. The main outcomes were the number of CT infections and the incremental cost as per quality-adjusted life year (QALY). RESULTS A cohort of 10,000 sexually active nonpregnant young women initially entered the model in a noninfectious state (ie, "well"). In the base-case analysis, the implementation of the Smart Girlfriend program resulted in the prevention of 0.45% of CT infections, 0.3% of pelvic inflammatory disease, and 0.04% of chronic pelvic pain, leading to a gain of 70 discounted QALYs and cost savings over a 4-year time horizon, compared to the control group. With more than 4548 users, the intervention would be cost-effective, and with more than 8315 users, the intervention would be cost saving. A 99% probability of being cost-effective was detected with a willingness to pay US $17,409 per QALY. CONCLUSIONS Smart Girlfriend is a cost-effective and possibly cost-saving program over a 4-year time horizon. This result was particularly sensitive to the number of website users; launching the website would be cost-effective if more than 4548 people used it. Further work is warranted to explore if the findings could be expanded to apply to women who have sex with women and in the context of other STIs. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrial.gov NCT03695679; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03695679.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Zhang
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
| | - Carlos K H Wong
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
| | - Yiqiao Xin
- Health Economics and Health Technology Assessment, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Y T Fong
- School of Nursing, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
| | - Janet Y H Wong
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
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Purcell C, McDaid L, Forsyth R, Simpson SA, Elliott L, Bailey JV, Moore L, Mitchell KR. A peer-led, school-based social network intervention for young people in the UK, promoting sexual health via social media and conversations with friends: intervention development and optimisation of STASH. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:675. [PMID: 37041542 PMCID: PMC10088210 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15541-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The quality of school-based sex and relationships education (SRE) is variable in the UK. Digitally-based interventions can usefully supplement teacher-delivered lessons and positively impact sexual health knowledge. Designed to address gaps in core SRE knowledge, STASH (Sexually Transmitted infections And Sexual Health) is a peer-led social network intervention adapted from the successful ASSIST (A Stop Smoking in Schools Trial) model, and based on Diffusion of Innovation theory. This paper describes how the STASH intervention was developed and refined. METHODS Drawing on the Six Steps in Quality Intervention Development (6SQuID) framework, we tested a provisional programme theory through three iterative stages -: 1) evidence synthesis; 2) intervention co-production; and 3) adaptation - which incorporated evidence review, stakeholder consultation, and website co-development and piloting with young people, sexual health specialists, and educators. Multi-method results were analysed in a matrix of commonalities and differences. RESULTS Over 21 months, intervention development comprised 20 activities within the three stages. 1) We identified gaps in SRE provision and online resources (e.g. around sexual consent, pleasure, digital literacy), and confirmed critical components including the core ASSIST peer nomination process, the support of schools, and alignment to the national curriculum. We reviewed candidate social media platforms, ruling out all except Facebook on basis of functionality restrictions which precluded their use for our purposes. 2) Drawing on these findings, as well as relevant behaviour change theories and core elements of the ASSIST model, we co-developed new content with young people and other stakeholders, tailored to sexual health and to delivery via closed Facebook groups, as well as face-to-face conversations. 3) A pilot in one school highlighted practical considerations, including around peer nomination, recruitment, awareness raising, and boundaries to message sharing. From this, a revised STASH intervention and programme theory were co-developed with stakeholders. CONCLUSIONS STASH intervention development required extensive adaptation from the ASSIST model. Although labour intensive, our robust co-development approach ensured that an optimised intervention was taken forward for feasibility testing. Evidencing a rigorous approach to operationalising existing intervention development guidance, this paper also highlights the significance of balancing competing stakeholder concerns, resource availability, and an ever-changing landscape for implementation. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN97369178.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie Purcell
- Open University, 10 Drumsheugh Gardens, Edinburgh, EH3 7QJ, UK.
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
| | - Lisa McDaid
- Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Long Pocket Precinct, 80 Meiers Rd, Indooroopilly, Brisbane, QLD, 4068, Australia
| | - Ross Forsyth
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Clarice Pears Building, Byres Road, Glasgow, G12 8TA, Scotland
| | - Sharon A Simpson
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Clarice Pears Building, Byres Road, Glasgow, G12 8TA, Scotland
| | - Lawrie Elliott
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Nursing and Community Health, Glasgow Caledonian University, Room 420 George Moore Building, Cowcaddens Road, Glasgow, G4 OBA, UK
| | - Julia V Bailey
- University College London E-Health Unit, Royal Free Hospital, Upper Third Floor, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Laurence Moore
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Clarice Pears Building, Byres Road, Glasgow, G12 8TA, Scotland
| | - Kirstin R Mitchell
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Clarice Pears Building, Byres Road, Glasgow, G12 8TA, Scotland
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Free C, Palmer MJ, Potter K, McCarthy OL, Jerome L, Berendes S, Gubijev A, Knight M, Jamal Z, Dhaliwal F, Carpenter JR, Morris TP, Edwards P, French R, Macgregor L, Turner KME, Baraitser P, Hickson FCI, Wellings K, Roberts I, Bailey JV, Hart G, Michie S, Clayton T, Devries K. Behavioural intervention to reduce sexually transmitted infections in people aged 16–24 years in the UK: the safetxt RCT. PUBLIC HEALTH RESEARCH 2023. [DOI: 10.3310/dane8826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background
The prevalence of genital chlamydia and gonorrhoea is higher in the 16–24 years age group than those in other age group. With users, we developed the theory-based safetxt intervention to reduce sexually transmitted infections.
Objectives
To establish the effect of the safetxt intervention on the incidence of chlamydia/gonorrhoea infection at 1 year.
Design
A parallel-group, individual-level, randomised superiority trial in which care providers and outcome assessors were blinded to allocation.
Setting
Recruitment was from 92 UK sexual health clinics.
Participants
Inclusion criteria were a positive chlamydia or gonorrhoea test result, diagnosis of non-specific urethritis or treatment started for chlamydia/gonorrhoea/non-specific urethritis in the last 2 weeks; owning a personal mobile phone; and being aged 16–24 years.
Allocation
Remote computer-based randomisation with an automated link to the messaging system delivering intervention or control group messages.
Intervention
The safetxt intervention was designed to reduce sexually transmitted infection by increasing partner notification, condom use and sexually transmitted infection testing before sex with new partners. It employed educational, enabling and incentivising content delivered by 42–79 text messages over 1 year, tailored according to type of infection, gender and sexuality.
Comparator
A monthly message regarding trial participation.
Main outcomes
The primary outcome was the incidence of chlamydia and gonorrhoea infection at 12 months, assessed using nucleic acid amplification tests. Secondary outcomes at 1 and 12 months included self-reported partner notification, condom use and sexually transmitted infection testing prior to sex with new partner(s).
Results
Between 1 April 2016 and 23 November 2018, we assessed 20,476 people for eligibility and consented and randomised 6248 participants, allocating 3123 to the safetxt intervention and 3125 to the control. Primary outcome data were available for 4675 (74.8%) participants. The incidence of chlamydia/gonorrhoea infection was 22.2% (693/3123) in the intervention group and 20.3% (633/3125) in the control group (odds ratio 1.13, 95% confidence interval 0.98 to 1.31). There was no evidence of heterogeneity in any of the prespecified subgroups. Partner notification was 85.6% in the intervention group and 84.0% in the control group (odds ratio 1.14, 95% confidence interval 0.99 to 1.33). At 12 months, condom use at last sex was 33.8% in the intervention group and 31.2% in the control group (odds ratio 1.14, 95% confidence interval 1.01 to 1.28) and condom use at first sex with most recent new partner was 54.4% in the intervention group and 48.7% in the control group (odds ratio 1.27, 95% confidence interval 1.11 to 1.45). Testing before sex with a new partner was 39.5% in the intervention group and 40.9% in the control group (odds ratio 0.95, 95% confidence interval 0.82 to 1.10). Having two or more partners since joining the trial was 56.9% in the intervention group and 54.8% in the control group (odds ratio 1.11, 95% confidence interval 1.00 to 1.24) and having sex with someone new since joining the trial was 69.7% in the intervention group and 67.4% in the control group (odds ratio 1.13, 95% confidence interval 1.00 to 1.28). There were no differences in safety outcomes. Additional sensitivity and per-protocol analyses showed similar results.
Limitations
Our understanding of the mechanism of action for the unanticipated effects is limited.
Conclusions
The safetxt intervention did not reduce chlamydia and gonorrhoea infections, with slightly more infections in the intervention group. The intervention increased condom use but also increased the number of partners and new partners. Randomised controlled trials are essential for evaluating health communication interventions, which can have unanticipated effects.
Future work
Randomised controlled trials evaluating novel interventions in this complex area are needed.
Trial registration
This trial is registered as ISRCTN64390461.
Funding
This project was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Public Health Research programme and will be published in full in Public Health Research; Vol. 11, No. 1. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Free
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Melissa J Palmer
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kimberley Potter
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ona L McCarthy
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lauren Jerome
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Sima Berendes
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Anasztazia Gubijev
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Megan Knight
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Zahra Jamal
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Farandeep Dhaliwal
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - James R Carpenter
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Tim P Morris
- Medical Research Council Clinical Trials Unit, London, UK
| | - Phil Edwards
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Rebecca French
- Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Louis Macgregor
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Katy ME Turner
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Ford CI Hickson
- Sigma Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kaye Wellings
- Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ian Roberts
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Julia V Bailey
- eHealth Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Graham Hart
- Department of Infection and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Susan Michie
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Effectiveness, University College London, London, UK
| | - Tim Clayton
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Karen Devries
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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5
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Free C, Palmer MJ, McCarthy OL, Jerome L, Berendes S, Knight M, Carpenter JR, Morris TP, Jamal Z, Dhaliwal F, French RS, Hickson FCI, Gubijev A, Wellings K, Baraitser P, Roberts I, Bailey JV, Clayton T, Devries K, Edwards P, Hart G, Michie S, Macgregor L, Turner KME, Potter K. Effectiveness of a behavioural intervention delivered by text messages (safetxt) on sexually transmitted reinfections in people aged 16-24 years: randomised controlled trial. BMJ 2022; 378:e070351. [PMID: 36170988 PMCID: PMC9516322 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2022-070351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To quantify the effects of a series of text messages (safetxt) delivered in the community on incidence of chlamydia and gonorrhoea reinfection at one year in people aged 16-24 years. DESIGN Parallel group randomised controlled trial. SETTING 92 sexual health clinics in the United Kingdom. PARTICIPANTS People aged 16-24 years with a diagnosis of, or treatment for, chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or non-specific urethritis in the past two weeks who owned a mobile phone. INTERVENTIONS 3123 participants assigned to the safetxt intervention received a series of text messages to improve sex behaviours: four texts daily for days 1-3, one or two daily for days 4-28, two or three weekly for month 2, and 2-5 monthly for months 3-12. 3125 control participants received a monthly text message for one year asking for any change to postal or email address. It was hypothesised that safetxt would reduce the risk of chlamydia and gonorrhoea reinfection at one year by improving three key safer sex behaviours: partner notification at one month, condom use, and sexually transmitted infection testing before unprotected sex with a new partner. Care providers and outcome assessors were blind to allocation. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was the cumulative incidence of chlamydia or gonorrhoea reinfection at one year, assessed by nucleic acid amplification tests. Safety outcomes were self-reported road traffic incidents and partner violence. All analyses were by intention to treat. RESULTS 6248 of 20 476 people assessed for eligibility between 1 April 2016 and 23 November 2018 were randomised. Primary outcome data were available for 4675/6248 (74.8%). At one year, the cumulative incidence of chlamydia or gonorrhoea reinfection was 22.2% (693/3123) in the safetxt arm versus 20.3% (633/3125) in the control arm (odds ratio 1.13, 95% confidence interval 0.98 to 1.31). The number needed to harm was 64 (95% confidence interval number needed to benefit 334 to ∞ to number needed to harm 24) The risk of road traffic incidents and partner violence was similar between the groups. CONCLUSIONS The safetxt intervention did not reduce chlamydia and gonorrhoea reinfections at one year in people aged 16-24 years. More reinfections occurred in the safetxt group. The results highlight the need for rigorous evaluation of health communication interventions. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN registry ISRCTN64390461.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Free
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Melissa J Palmer
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ona L McCarthy
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lauren Jerome
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Sima Berendes
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Megan Knight
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - James R Carpenter
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Zahra Jamal
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Farandeep Dhaliwal
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Rebecca S French
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Anasztazia Gubijev
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kaye Wellings
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Ian Roberts
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Julia V Bailey
- eHealth Unit, Research Department of Primary care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Tim Clayton
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Karen Devries
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Phil Edwards
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Graham Hart
- Department of Infection and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Susan Michie
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Effectiveness, University College London, London, UK
| | - Louis Macgregor
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Katy M E Turner
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Kimberley Potter
- Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Robinson M, Templeton M, Kelly C, Grant D, Buston K, Hunt K, Lohan M. Addressing sexual and reproductive health and rights with men in prisons: co-production and feasibility testing of a relationship, sexuality and future fatherhood education programme. Int J Prison Health 2022; 19:322-339. [PMID: 35833902 PMCID: PMC10592775 DOI: 10.1108/ijph-02-2022-0008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Young incarcerated male offenders are at risk of poorer sexual health, adolescent parenthood and lack opportunities for formative relationship and sexuality education (RSE) as well as positive male role models. The purpose of this paper is to report the process of co-production and feasibility testing of a novel, gender-transformative RSE programme with young male offenders to encourage positive healthy relationships, gender equality, and future positive fatherhood. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH Using a rights-based participatory approach, the authors co-produced an RSE programme with young offenders and service providers at two UK prison sites using a sequential research design of: needs analysis, co-production and a feasibility pilot. Core components of the programme are grounded in evidence-based RSE, gender-transformative and behaviour change theory. FINDINGS A needs analysis highlighted the men's interest in RSE along with the appeal of film drama and peer-group-based activities. In the co-production stage, scripts were developed with the young men to generate tailored film dramas and associated activities. This co-production led to "If I Were a Dad", an eight-week programme comprising short films and activities addressing masculinities, relationships, sexual health and future fatherhood. A feasibility pilot of the programme demonstrated acceptability and feasibility of delivery in two prison sites. The programme warrants further implementation and evaluation studies. ORIGINALITY/VALUE The contribution of this paper is the generation of an evidence-based, user-informed, gender-transformative programme designed to promote SRHR of young male offenders to foster positive sexual and reproductive health and well-being in their own lives and that of their partners and (future) children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Robinson
- School of Psychology at Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Michelle Templeton
- School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work at Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Carmel Kelly
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - David Grant
- The Senator George J Mitchell Institute for Global Peace, Security and Justice, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Katie Buston
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Kate Hunt
- Institute of Social Marketing, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Maria Lohan
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Lohan M, Brennan-Wilson A, Hunter R, Gabrio A, McDaid L, Young H, French R, Aventin Á, Clarke M, McDowell C, Logan D, Toase S, O’Hare L, Bonell C, Gillespie K, Gough A, Lagdon S, Warren E, Buckley K, Lewis R, Adara L, McShane T, Bailey J, White J. Effects of gender-transformative relationships and sexuality education to reduce adolescent pregnancy (the JACK trial): a cluster-randomised trial. THE LANCET PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 7:e626-e637. [DOI: 10.1016/s2468-2667(22)00117-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Maaß L, Pan CC, Freye M. Mapping Digital Public Health Interventions Among Existing Digital Technologies and Internet-Based Interventions to Maintain and Improve Population Health in Practice: Protocol for a Scoping Review. JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e33404. [PMID: 35357321 PMCID: PMC9015775 DOI: 10.2196/33404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rapid developments and implementation of digital technologies in public health domains throughout the last decades have changed the landscape of health delivery and disease prevention globally. A growing number of countries are introducing interventions such as online consultations, electronic health records, or telemedicine to their health systems to improve their populations' health and improve access to health care. Despite multiple definitions for digital public health and the development of different digital interventions, no study has analyzed whether the utilized technologies fit the definition or the core characteristics of digital public health interventions. A scoping review is therefore needed to explore the extent of the literature on this topic. OBJECTIVE The main aim of this scoping review is to outline real-world digital public health interventions on all levels of health care, prevention, and health. The second objective will be the mapping of reported intervention characteristics. These will include nontechnical elements and the technical features of an intervention. METHODS We searched for relevant literature in the following databases: PubMed, Web of Science, CENTRAL (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials), IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) Xplore, and the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) Full-Text Collection. All original study types (observational studies, experimental trials, qualitative studies, and health-economic analyses), as well as governmental reports, books, book chapters, or peer-reviewed full-text conference papers were included when the evaluation and description of a digital health intervention was the primary intervention component. Two authors screened the articles independently in three stages (title, abstract, and full text). Two independent authors will also perform the data charting. We will report our results following the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews) checklist. RESULTS An additional systematic search in IEEE Xplore and ACM, performed on December 1, 2021, identified another 491 titles. We identified a total of 13,869 papers after deduplication. As of March 2022, the abstract screening state is complete, and we are in the state of screening the 1417 selected full texts for final inclusion. We estimate completing the review in April 2022. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this will be the first scoping review to fill the theoretical definitions of digital public health with concrete interventions and their characteristics. Our scoping review will display the landscape of worldwide existing digital public health interventions that use information and communication technologies. The results of this review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal in early 2022, which can serve as a blueprint for the development of future digital public health interventions. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/33404.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Maaß
- Department of Health, Long-Term Care and Pensions, Research Center on Inequality and Social Policy, Bremen, Germany
- Leibniz ScienceCampus Digital Public Health Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Chen-Chia Pan
- Leibniz ScienceCampus Digital Public Health Bremen, Bremen, Germany
- Department for Epidemiological Methods and Etiological Research, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology, Bremen, Germany
| | - Merle Freye
- Leibniz ScienceCampus Digital Public Health Bremen, Bremen, Germany
- Institute for Information, Health and Medical Law, Bremen, Germany
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9
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Balci S, Spanhel K, Sander LB, Baumeister H. Culturally adapting internet- and mobile-based health promotion interventions might not be worth the effort: a systematic review and meta-analysis. NPJ Digit Med 2022; 5:34. [PMID: 35322172 PMCID: PMC8943001 DOI: 10.1038/s41746-022-00569-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Health promotion interventions offer great potential in advocating a healthy lifestyle and the prevention of diseases. Some barriers to communicating health promotion to people of certain cultural groups might be overcome via the internet- and mobile-based interventions (IMI). This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to explore the effectiveness of culturally adapted IMI for health promotion interventions among culturally diverse populations. We systematically searched on Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), EbscoHost/MEDLINE, Ovid/Embase, EbscoHost/PsychINFO, and Web of Science databases in October 2020. Out of 9438 records, 13 randomized controlled trials (RCT) investigating culturally adapted health promotion IMI addressing healthy eating, physical activity, alcohol consumption, sexual health behavior, and smoking cessation included. From the included studies 10,747 participants were eligible. Culturally adapted IMI proved to be non-superior over active control conditions in short- (g = 0.10, [95% CI -0.19 to 0.40]) and long-term (g = 0.20, [95% CI -0.11 to 0.51]) in promoting health behavior. However, culturally adapted IMI for physical activity (k = 3, N = 296) compared to active controls yielded a beneficial effect in long-term (g = 0.48, [95%CI 0.25 to 0.71]). Adapting health promotion IMI to the cultural context of different cultural populations seems not yet to be recommendable given the substantial adaption efforts necessary and the mostly non-significant findings. However, these findings need to be seen as preliminary given the limited number of included trials with varying methodological rigor and the partly substantial between-trial heterogeneity pointing in the direction of potentially useful culturally adapted IMI which now need to be disentangled from the less promising approaches.PROSPERO registration number: 42020152939.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumeyye Balci
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Lise-Meitner-Str. 16, D-89081, Ulm, Germany.
| | - Kerstin Spanhel
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Freiburg, Engelbergerstr. 41, D-79085, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Lasse Bosse Sander
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Freiburg, Engelbergerstr. 41, D-79085, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Harald Baumeister
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Lise-Meitner-Str. 16, D-89081, Ulm, Germany
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10
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Effectiveness of eHealth Interventions for HIV Prevention and Management in Sub-Saharan Africa: Systematic Review and Meta-analyses. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:457-469. [PMID: 34427813 PMCID: PMC8813706 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03402-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
HIV is still the leading cause of death in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), despite medical advances. eHealth interventions are effective for HIV prevention and management, but it is unclear whether this can be generalised to resource-poor settings. This systematic review aimed to establish the effectiveness of eHealth interventions in SSA. Six electronic databases were screened to identify randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published between 2000 and 2020. Meta-analyses were performed, following Cochrane methodology, to assess the impact of eHealth interventions on HIV-related behaviours and biological outcomes. 25 RCTs were included in the review. Meta-analyses show that eHealth interventions significantly improved HIV management behaviours (OR 1.21; 95% CI 1.05-1.40; Z = 2.67; p = 0.008), but not HIV prevention behaviours (OR 1.02; 95% CI 0.78-1.34; Z = 0.17; p = 0.86) or biological outcomes (OR 1.17; 95% CI 0.89-1.54; Z = 1.10; p = 0.27) compared with minimal intervention control groups. It is a hugely important finding that eHealth interventions can improve HIV management behaviours as this is a low-cost way of improving HIV outcomes and reducing the spread of HIV in SSA. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020186025.
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11
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Decker MJ, Harrison S, Price M, Gutmann-Gonzalez A, Yarger J, Tenney R. Educators' Perspectives on Integrating Technology Into Sexual Health Education: Implementation Study. JMIR Hum Factors 2022; 9:e31381. [PMID: 35019842 PMCID: PMC8792781 DOI: 10.2196/31381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In the last decade, the use of technology-based sexual health education has increased. Multiple studies have shown the feasibility of technology-based interventions, while a subset has also shown efficacy in improving youths’ sexual health outcomes such as increased condom use and knowledge. However, little is known about health educators’ experiences in integrating technology to augment sexual health curricula. Objective The purpose of this study was to assess the perceptions and experiences of health educators regarding the incorporation of technology into a sexual health education program designed for underserved youth in Fresno County, California, and to identify facilitators and challenges to incorporating technology into the in-person curriculum. Methods This implementation study used data collected as part of a cluster randomized controlled trial to evaluate In the Know (ITK), an in-person sexual health education curriculum that includes technology-based content, such as a resource locator, videos, and games, which can be accessed through a mobile app or website. Data from implementation logs from each cohort (n=51) and annual interviews (n=8) with health educators were analyzed to assess the health educators’ experiences using the technology and adaptations made during the implementation. Results The health educators reported that technological issues affected implementation to some degree: 87% of the time in the first year, which decreased to 47% in the third year as health educators’ familiarity with the app increased and functionality improved. Technology issues were also more common in non–school settings. Successes and challenges in 3 domains emerged: managing technology, usability of the ITK app, and youth engagement. The health educators generally had positive comments about the app and youth engagement with the technology-based content and activities; however, they also noted certain barriers to adolescents’ use of the mobile app including limited data storage and battery life on mobile phones. Conclusions Health educators require training and support to optimize technology as a resource for engaging with youth and providing sensitive information. Although technology is often presented as a solution to reach underserved populations, educational programs should consider the technological needs and limitations of the participants, educators, and settings. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) RR2-10.2196/18060
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha J Decker
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Salish Harrison
- Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Melisa Price
- Clinical and Translational Science Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Abigail Gutmann-Gonzalez
- Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Jennifer Yarger
- Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Rachel Tenney
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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12
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Dhinagaran DA, Sathish T, Soong A, Theng YL, Best J, Tudor Car L. Conversational Agent for Healthy Lifestyle Behavior Change: Web-Based Feasibility Study. JMIR Form Res 2021; 5:e27956. [PMID: 34870611 PMCID: PMC8686401 DOI: 10.2196/27956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rising incidence of chronic diseases is a growing concern, especially in Singapore, which is one of the high-income countries with the highest prevalence of diabetes. Interventions that promote healthy lifestyle behavior changes have been proven to be effective in reducing the progression of prediabetes to diabetes, but their in-person delivery may not be feasible on a large scale. Novel technologies such as conversational agents are a potential alternative for delivering behavioral interventions that promote healthy lifestyle behavior changes to the public. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to assess the feasibility and acceptability of using a conversational agent promoting healthy lifestyle behavior changes in the general population in Singapore. METHODS We performed a web-based, single-arm feasibility study. The participants were recruited through Facebook over 4 weeks. The Facebook Messenger conversational agent was used to deliver the intervention. The conversations focused on diet, exercise, sleep, and stress and aimed to promote healthy lifestyle behavior changes and improve the participants' knowledge of diabetes. Messages were sent to the participants four times a week (once for each of the 4 topics of focus) for 4 weeks. We assessed the feasibility of recruitment, defined as at least 75% (150/200) of our target sample of 200 participants in 4 weeks, as well as retention, defined as 33% (66/200) of the recruited sample completing the study. We also assessed the participants' satisfaction with, and usability of, the conversational agent. In addition, we performed baseline and follow-up assessments of quality of life, diabetes knowledge and risk perception, diet, exercise, sleep, and stress. RESULTS We recruited 37.5% (75/200) of the target sample size in 1 month. Of the 75 eligible participants, 60 (80%) provided digital informed consent and completed baseline assessments. Of these 60 participants, 56 (93%) followed the study through till completion. Retention was high at 93% (56/60), along with engagement, denoted by 50% (30/60) of the participants communicating with the conversational agent at each interaction. Acceptability, usability, and satisfaction were generally high. Preliminary efficacy of the intervention showed no definitive improvements in health-related behavior. CONCLUSIONS The delivery of a conversational agent for healthy lifestyle behavior change through Facebook Messenger was feasible and acceptable. We were unable to recruit our planned sample solely using the free options in Facebook. However, participant retention and conversational agent engagement rates were high. Our findings provide important insights to inform the design of a future randomized controlled trial.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thirunavukkarasu Sathish
- Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - AiJia Soong
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yin-Leng Theng
- Centre for Healthy and Sustainable Cities, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - James Best
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lorainne Tudor Car
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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13
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Dhinagaran DA, Sathish T, Kowatsch T, Griva K, Best JD, Tudor Car L. Public Perceptions of Diabetes, Healthy Living, and Conversational Agents in Singapore: Needs Assessment. JMIR Form Res 2021; 5:e30435. [PMID: 34762053 PMCID: PMC8663498 DOI: 10.2196/30435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The incidence of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes is increasing in countries worldwide, including Singapore. Health professional–delivered healthy lifestyle interventions have been shown to prevent type 2 diabetes. However, ongoing personalized guidance from health professionals is not feasible or affordable at the population level. Novel digital interventions delivered using mobile technology, such as conversational agents, are a potential alternative for the delivery of healthy lifestyle change behavioral interventions to the public. Objective We explored perceptions and experiences of Singaporeans on healthy living, diabetes, and mobile health (mHealth) interventions (apps and conversational agents). This study was conducted to help inform the design and development of a conversational agent focusing on healthy lifestyle changes. Methods This qualitative study was conducted in August and September 2019. A total of 20 participants were recruited from relevant healthy living Facebook pages and groups. Semistructured interviews were conducted in person or over the telephone using an interview guide. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed in parallel by 2 researchers using Burnard’s method, a structured approach for thematic content analysis. Results The collected data were organized into 4 main themes: use of conversational agents, ubiquity of smartphone apps, understanding of diabetes, and barriers and facilitators to a healthy living in Singapore. Most participants used health-related mobile apps as well as conversational agents unrelated to health care. They provided diverse suggestions for future conversational agent-delivered interventions. Participants also highlighted several knowledge gaps in relation to diabetes and healthy living. Regarding barriers to healthy living, participants mentioned frequent dining out, high stress levels, lack of work-life balance, and lack of free time to engage in physical activity. In contrast, discipline, preplanning, and sticking to a routine were important for enabling a healthy lifestyle. Conclusions Participants in this study commonly used mHealth interventions and provided important insights into their knowledge gaps and needs in relation to changes in healthy lifestyle behaviors. Future digital interventions such as conversational agents focusing on healthy lifestyle and diabetes prevention should aim to address the barriers highlighted in our study and motivate individuals to adopt healthy lifestyle behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thirunavukkarasu Sathish
- Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.,Centre for Population Health Sciences, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Tobias Kowatsch
- Future Health Technologies Programme, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise, Singapore-ETH Centre, Singapore, Singapore.,Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Department of Management, Technology, and Economics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Institute of Technology Management, University of St Gallen, St Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Konstadina Griva
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - James Donovan Best
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lorainne Tudor Car
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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14
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Unis B, Nilsson J, Bjuresäter K. Sexual Health Promotion among Swedish Adolescents - Professionals' Experiences. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2021; 33:410-425. [PMID: 38595740 PMCID: PMC10903572 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2021.1921893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
In this grounded theory study the aim was to explore professionals' experiences of promotion of adolescents' sexual health, and views on inter-professional collaboration in relation to this subject. Data collection was by five focus group interviews and two pair interviews with professionals working with sexual health promotion in health care and schools. The results showed that professionals were reaching out to young people through competence and trusting relationships along with working on a broader front. In conclusion, professionals need to be knowledgeable about the world of young people, accessible and able to offer adequate support, and improve their inter-professional collaborations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Unis
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, Science, and Technology, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden
- Faculty of Social and Health Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway
| | - Jan Nilsson
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, Science, and Technology, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden
- Faculty of Social and Health Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway
| | - Kaisa Bjuresäter
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, Science, and Technology, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden
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15
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Robinson M, Aventin Á, Hanratty J, Ruane-McAteer E, Tomlinson M, Clarke M, Okonofua F, Lohan M. Nothing so practical as theory: a rapid review of the use of behaviour change theory in family planning interventions involving men and boys. Reprod Health 2021; 18:126. [PMID: 34120630 PMCID: PMC8201745 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-021-01173-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing recognition of the need for interventions that effectively involve men and boys to promote family planning behaviours. Evidence suggests that the most effective behavioural interventions in this field are founded on theoretical principles of behaviour change and gender equality. However, there are few evidence syntheses on how theoretical approaches are applied in this context that might guide best practice in intervention development. This review addresses this gap by examining the application and reporting of theories of behaviour change used by family planning interventions involving men and boys. METHODS We adopted a systematic rapid review approach, scoping findings of a previously reported evidence and gap map of intervention reviews (covering 2007-2018) and supplementing this with searches of academic databases and grey literature for reviews and additional studies published between 2007 and 2020. Studies were eligible for inclusion if their title, abstract or keywords referred to a psychosocial or behavioural intervention targeting family planning behaviours, involved males in delivery, and detailed their use of an intervention theory of change. RESULTS From 941 non-duplicate records identified, 63 were eligible for inclusion. Most records referenced interventions taking place in low- and middle-income countries (65%). There was a range of intervention theories of change reported, typically targeting individual-level behaviours and sometimes comprising several behaviour change theories and strategies. The most commonly identified theories were Social Cognitive Theory, Social Learning Theory, the Theory of Planned Behaviour, and the Information-Motivation-Behaviour Skills (IMB) Model. A minority of records explicitly detailed gender-informed elements within their theory of change. CONCLUSION Our findings highlight the range of prevailing theories of change used for family planning interventions involving men and boys, and the considerable variability in their reporting. Programmers and policy makers would be best served by unified reporting and testing of intervention theories of change. There remains a need for consistent reporting of these to better understand how complex interventions that seek to involve men and boys in family planning may lead to behaviour change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Robinson
- School of Nursing and Midwifery and Centre for Evidence and Social Innovation, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Áine Aventin
- School of Nursing and Midwifery and Centre for Evidence and Social Innovation, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK.
| | - Jennifer Hanratty
- School of Nursing and Midwifery and Centre for Evidence and Social Innovation, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | | | - Mark Tomlinson
- School of Nursing and Midwifery and Centre for Evidence and Social Innovation, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Mike Clarke
- School of Nursing and Midwifery and Centre for Evidence and Social Innovation, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Friday Okonofua
- Women's Health Action Research Centre, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
| | - Maria Lohan
- School of Nursing and Midwifery and Centre for Evidence and Social Innovation, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
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16
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Choi EPH, Chau PH, Wong WCW, Kowk JYY, Choi KWY, Chow EPF. Developing and testing of an interactive internet-based intervention to reduce sexual harm of sexualised drug use ('chemsex') among men who have sex with men in Hong Kong: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:713. [PMID: 33849517 PMCID: PMC8045193 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10742-8] [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] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sexualised drug use, known as ‘chemsex’ or ‘chemfun,’ is the practice of intentionally using illicit drugs before or during sexual activates to enhance sexual arousal and pleasure. International and local data have both suggested that chemsex is common among men who have sex with men (MSM). Chemsex is generally seen with the engagement of risky sexual activities and therefore poses a threat regarding the potentially increased spread of human immunodeficiency virus and other sexually transmitted infections. However, little work has been done on the primary prevention of chemsex among MSM. Therefore, the aim of this study is to develop and evaluate an interactive internet-based intervention in reducing the sexual harms of chemsex among MSM in Hong Kong, Methods A two-armed, randomised, parallel-group trial with a three-month follow-up period will be conducted. 250 MSM aged 18 years or the above will be recruited through local non-governmental organisations, social media and by snowballing in Hong Kong. Participants will be randomly allocated into either the intervention (n = 125) or control group (n = 125). The interactive internet-based intervention will be developed based on the theory of planned behaviours. Participants in the control group will receive a web-based intervention without any sexual health information and without any interactive components. The primary outcomes will be self-efficacy in refusing risky sexual behaviours and chemsex, as measured by the Drug Avoidance Self-Efficacy Scale, the Self-Efficacy for Sexual Safety and the Condom Self-Efficacy Scale. Subjects in both groups will be evaluated at baseline and 3 months after baseline. Discussion To the best of our knowledge, this will be the first interactive internet-based intervention to specifically target chemsex among MSM. This project can help in the development and testing of culturally relevant health promotion programmes that reduce chemsex among MSM. Using an online delivery mode, the intervention is capable of reaching a large population of targets at a relatively low cost and thus has the potential to reduce the public health burden of chemsex and other risky sexual behaviours among MSM in a cost-effective manner. Trial registration International standard randomized controlled trial number (ISRCTN) registry: ISRCTN20134522 registered on 17 March 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edmond P H Choi
- School of Nursing, University of Hong Kong, 4/F, William M.W. Mong Block 21 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.
| | - Pui Hing Chau
- School of Nursing, University of Hong Kong, 4/F, William M.W. Mong Block 21 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - William C W Wong
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, University of Hong Kong, Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong
| | - Jojo Y Y Kowk
- School of Nursing, University of Hong Kong, 4/F, William M.W. Mong Block 21 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | | | - Eric P F Chow
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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17
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Wong JYH, Zhang W, Wu Y, Choi EPH, Lo HHM, Wong W, Chio JHM, Tam HLC, Ngai FW, Tarrant M, Wang MP, Ngan HYS, Fong DYT. An Interactive Web-Based Sexual Health Literacy Program for Safe Sex Practice for Female Chinese University Students: Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e22564. [PMID: 33709941 PMCID: PMC7998327 DOI: 10.2196/22564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sexual health concerns among young adults worldwide help to motivate preventative practices against sexually transmitted infections. To foster better sexual health, sexual health literacy must be enhanced. Little research has been conducted on the impact of gender power dynamics on sexual health, such as sexual coercion, even though the prevalence of sexual coercion remains high in China. Objective This study describes the development and systematic evaluation of a web-based sexual health literacy intervention called “Smart Girlfriend” for female Chinese university students. Methods A multicenter randomized controlled trial was conducted with 781 female university students at 5 universities with dormitories in Hong Kong. Inclusion criteria were used to select unmarried, female, Chinese university students who were ≥18 years old and had not received a sexual health intervention in the past 12 months. Participants were randomly assigned to 2 groups: one group received an interactive web-based sexual health literacy intervention and the other group received a single webpage of online information about condom use. The intervention content was based on the Health Belief Model and the Continuum of Conflict and Control theory. The primary outcome was self-reported consistency of condom use with every partner at 3-month and 6-month follow-up assessments, analyzed using zero/one inflated beta (ZOIB) regression. The secondary outcome was an appraisal of the knowledge, attitudes, norms, and self-efficacy of condom use using the 25-item Multidimensional Condom Attitudes Scale (MCAS). The intention to treat was applied in analyses. Results Of 1503 individuals that were screened, 781 (52%) were randomized into 2 groups. The retention rates at the 3-month and 6-month follow-ups were 92% and 91%, respectively. Most participants were born locally (536/746, 72%), and 18% (134/746) self-reported as a sexual minority. ZOIB results regarding the consistency of condom use were not significant [model 1: odds ratio (OR) 2.25 with a 95% credible interval (CrI) of 0.84-6.36; model 2: OR 8.03 (95% CrI 0.22-330.31); model 3: OR 1.21 (95% CrI 0.78-1.86)]. Consistency in the intervention group was 5% higher (95% CI −1.90 to 11.63) than the control group at the 3-month follow-up, and 1% higher (95% CI −5.81 to 8·02) at the 6-month follow-up. MCAS scores at the 3-month follow-up were significantly higher in the intervention group (mean 122.51, SD 15.97) than the control group (mean 119.86, SD 15.85; P=.02). Conclusions An interactive web-based sexual health literacy program did not significantly increase the consistency of condom use compared to a single webpage of condom use information; however, it did temporarily improve knowledge, attitudes, norms, and self-efficacy regarding condom use. Future revisions of this intervention should be personalized and delivered with a proactive approach. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03695679; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03695679
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wen Zhang
- School of Nursing, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong
| | - Yongda Wu
- School of Nursing, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong
| | | | - Herman Hay Ming Lo
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong
| | - Wendy Wong
- School of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong
| | - Jasmine Hin Man Chio
- Department of Counselling and Psychology, Hong Kong Shue Yan University, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong
| | - Hau Lin Cherry Tam
- Department of Social and Behavioural Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong
| | - Fei Wan Ngai
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong
| | - Marie Tarrant
- School of Nursing, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Man Ping Wang
- School of Nursing, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong
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18
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Nielsen AM, De Costa A, Gemzell-Danielsson K, Marrone G, Boman J, Salazar M, Diwan V. The MOSEXY trial: mobile phone intervention for sexual health in youth-a pragmatic randomised controlled trial to evaluate the effect of a smartphone application on sexual health in youth in Stockholm, Sweden. Sex Transm Infect 2021; 97:141-146. [PMID: 31628248 PMCID: PMC7892369 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2019-054027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
An estimated 350 million cases of STIs occur globally each year. In Sweden, Chlamydia is the most common STI with approximately 30 000 cases annually, disproportionally affecting youth. National surveys report low condom use among youth. Smartphone coverage is high among this tech-savvy group. In collaboration with youth, we developed an interactive smartphone application comprising games, peer experiences and information snippets to promote condom use. OBJECTIVES To evaluate in a randomised controlled trial, the effectiveness of this smartphone application to improve condom use among youth in Stockholm, Sweden. METHODS This two-arm, individually randomised controlled trial was implemented through the Youth Health Clinics (YHC) in Stockholm, Sweden. Youth aged 18-23 years, who owned a smartphone and had ≥2 sexual partners during the past 6 months were eligible. The intervention delivered the interactive elements described above over 180 days. The control group received a 'dummy' application. Both groups received standard of care at the YHC. The primary outcome was proportion of consistent (100%) self-reported condom use at 6 months. Secondary outcomes included self-reported number of partners, occurrence of STIs/pregnancy and STI tests during the study period. An intention-to-treat approach was used. RESULTS 214 and 219 youth were randomised to the intervention and control groups, respectively. Consistent condom use was reported for 32/214 (15.0%) in the intervention group and for 35/219 (16.0%) in the control group (OR 0.9, 95% CI 0.5 to 1.6). No significant differences in secondary outcomes were seen. CONCLUSION We were unable to detect an effect of the intervention. Future research should focus on targeting different subgroups within the overall risk group, with tailored mHealth interventions. The potential for such interventions in settings where sexual health services are unavailable should be evaluated. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN13212899.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ayesha De Costa
- Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Gaetano Marrone
- Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jens Boman
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umea Universitet Medicinska fakulteten, Umea, Sweden
| | - Mariano Salazar
- Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Vinod Diwan
- Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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19
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Bailey JV, Bennett KF, Gubijev A, Shawe J, Stephenson J. Participant views and experiences of sexual health research: The Contraception Choices online trial. Digit Health 2021; 7:20552076211033424. [PMID: 34422279 PMCID: PMC8370889 DOI: 10.1177/20552076211033424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Online sexual health research can be convenient, efficient and low cost, but there are debates about the adequacy of online informed consent, privacy, and the acceptability of different methods of follow-up. OBJECTIVES To explore women's views and experiences of the Contraception Choices feasibility trial procedures and the place of digital interventions for contraception decision making. METHODS We analysed data from two sources: (1) Qualitative interviews. Eighteen interviews were conducted with women who had taken part in the Contraception Choices pre-trial feasibility study, to evaluate recruitment and online trial procedures. (2) Free-text comments. Women in the main Contraception Choices randomised controlled trial were followed up at 3 and 6 months, and asked 'Please tell us what you liked or disliked about the website' and 'Has being in the study had any good or bad effects on your life?' A total of 387 and 414 comments were made at 3 and 6 months respectively. Data were analysed thematically. RESULTS Participants liked being involved in a study about contraception, although recruitment from an abortion clinic was less acceptable than in other sexual health settings. Women found the trial procedures straightforward, and expressed no major concerns about online self-registration, informed consent or online data collection. Online survey questions about contraception and fertility were acceptable, and participants liked the convenience of being followed up by email or text. CONCLUSIONS Participants appreciated the advantages of the online research design and did not express concerns about consent or privacy. Women would welcome digital interventions for contraception in a variety of settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia V Bailey
- e-Health Unit, Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, UK
| | - Kirsty F Bennett
- Cancer Communication and Screening Group, Department of Behavioural
Science & Health, University College London, UK
| | | | - Jill Shawe
- Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, UK
| | - Judith Stephenson
- UCL Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women’s Health, University College London, UK
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20
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Stephenson J, Bailey JV, Blandford A, Brima N, Copas A, D'Souza P, Gubijev A, Hunter R, Shawe J, Rait G, Oliver S. An interactive website to aid young women's choice of contraception: feasibility and efficacy RCT. Health Technol Assess 2020; 24:1-44. [PMID: 33164729 DOI: 10.3310/hta24560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effective use of contraception can reduce numbers of unintended pregnancies, but misunderstandings and concerns about contraception abound. Increasingly, women seek health-care information online. OBJECTIVES To develop an interactive website to aid informed choice of contraceptive method, including long-acting reversible contraception (Phase I), and test its effectiveness in a parallel, single-blind randomised trial (Phase II). Approval came from London - Camden & King's Cross Research Ethics Committee (reference 17/LO/0112). SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS For both phases, women aged 15-30 years were recruited from general practice, sexual health services, maternity services, community pharmacies and an abortion service. DESIGN In Phase I, we conducted three systematic literature reviews, a review of YouTube (YouTube, LLC, San Bruno, CA, USA) videos about contraception, and focus groups and interviews with young women to explore barriers to and concerns and misperceptions about contraception. We then iteratively co-designed an interactive website, Contraception Choices [URL: www.contraceptionchoices.org (accessed June 2020)], with young women and a software company. In Phase II, we evaluated the website through a randomised trial that began as a feasibility trial. Early demand for Contraception Choices stimulated a design change from a feasibility to an efficacy trial, with follow-up for clinical outcomes at 3 and 6 months. A randomisation list was incorporated into the trial software program to allocate participants to the intervention (website) or control group (standard care). INTERVENTION Contraception Choices is a co-designed, evidence-based, interactive website to aid informed choice of contraception. It provides information about different methods, addresses common concerns and offers tailored contraceptive options in response to individual preferences. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Qualitative - participant views and experience of the intervention, assessed through qualitative interviews. Quantitative primary outcomes - follow-up rate at 6 months in the initial feasibility trial, using a long-acting reversible contraception method, and satisfaction with contraceptive method at 6 months in the efficacy trial. RESULTS A total of 927 women were randomised online to the website (n = 464) or control group (n = 463), of whom 739 (80%) provided follow-up data at 6 months [786 women (85%) provided data at 3 and/or 6 months that were included in the analysis of primary outcomes]. There was little difference between groups in the proportion using long-acting reversible contraception at 6 months [30.4% intervention vs. 31.0% control, adjusted odds ratio after imputation 0.87 (95% confidence interval 0.60 to 1.27)] or in satisfaction with contraceptive method [proportion being 'satisfied' or 'very satisfied', 82.6% intervention vs. 82.1% control, adjusted odds ratio 0.93 (95% confidence interval 0.69 to 1.25)]. Qualitative evaluation indicated highly positive views about the website and increased knowledge of contraceptive methods that could dispel misperceptions. Women appreciated having information tailored to their specific needs and felt better prepared before consultations. LIMITATIONS We did not include intermediate measures, such as knowledge of contraceptive methods, intention to change method or confidence in discussing contraception with a health-care professional, which may have indicated other benefits of using the website. In future, the website should be studied in different settings (e.g. schools and in routine practice) to see whether or not it improves the quality or efficiency of contraceptive consultations. CONCLUSIONS Our systematic review indicated wide-ranging influences on women's use of contraception globally. The website, Contraception Choices, was very popular with young women and contraception service providers. It was not associated with statistically significant differences in use of long-acting reversible contraception or satisfaction with contraceptive method at 6 months. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN13247829. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 24, No. 56. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Stephenson
- UCL Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Julia V Bailey
- Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ann Blandford
- UCL Interaction Centre (UCLIC), University College London, London, UK
| | - Nataliya Brima
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Andrew Copas
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Preethy D'Souza
- Department of Social Science, UCL Institute of Education, University College London, London, UK
| | - Anasztazia Gubijev
- UCL Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Jill Shawe
- Institute of Health and Community, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Greta Rait
- PRIMENT Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Sandy Oliver
- Department of Social Science, UCL Institute of Education, University College London, London, UK.,Africa Centre for Evidence, Faculty of Humanities, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
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21
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Mitchell KR, Purcell C, Forsyth R, Barry S, Hunter R, Simpson SA, McDaid L, Elliot L, McCann M, Wetherall K, Broccatelli C, Bailey JV, Moore L. A peer-led intervention to promote sexual health in secondary schools: the STASH feasibility study. PUBLIC HEALTH RESEARCH 2020. [DOI: 10.3310/phr08150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Young people report higher levels of unsafe sex and have higher rates of sexually transmitted infections than any other age group. Schools are well placed to facilitate early intervention, but more effective approaches are required. Peer-led approaches can augment school-based education, but often fail to capitalise on mechanisms of social influence. The potential of using social media in sexual health has not been tested in school settings.
Objectives
Finalise the design of the Sexually Transmitted infections And Sexual Health (STASH) intervention; assess the recruitment and retention of peer supporters, and acceptability to participants and stakeholders; assess the fidelity and reach, in addition to the barriers to and facilitators of, implementation; refine programme theory; understand the potential of social media; determine design parameters for a future randomised controlled trial, including economic evaluation; and establish whether or not progression criteria were met.
Design
This was a feasibility study comprising intervention development and refinement of the STASH pilot and non-randomised feasibility trial in six schools. Control data were provided by students in the year above the intervention group.
Setting
Secondary schools in Scotland.
Participants
Students aged 14–16 years, teachers and intervention delivery partners.
Interventions
The STASH intervention was adapted from A Stop Smoking In Schools Trial (ASSIST) (an effective peer-led smoking intervention). Based on diffusion of innovation theory, the STASH study involves peer nomination to identify the most influential students, with the aim of recruiting and training 15% of the year group as peer supporters. The peer supporters deliver sexual health messages to friends in their year group via conversations and use of Facebook (www.facebook.com; Facebook, Inc., Menlo Park, CA, USA) to share varied content from a curated set of web-based resources. Peer supporters are given support themselves via follow-up sessions and via trainer membership of Facebook groups.
Main outcome measures
The primary outcome was whether or not progression criteria were met in relation to intervention acceptability and feasibility. The study also piloted indicative primary outcomes for a full-scale evaluation.
Data sources
Peer supporter questionnaire; observations of activities; interviews with trainers, teachers, peer supporters and students; monitoring log of peer supporter activities (including on Facebook and meeting attendance); questionnaire to control year group (baseline characteristics, social networks, mediators and sexual health outcomes); baseline and follow-up questionnaire (approximately 6 months later) for intervention year group.
Results
A total of 104 students were trained as peer supporters (just over half of those nominated for the role by their peers). Role retention was very high (97%). Of 611 students completing the follow-up questionnaire, 58% reported exposure to STASH study activities. Intervention acceptability was high among students and stakeholders. Activities were delivered with good fidelity. The peer supporters were active, representative of their year group and well connected within their social network. Carefully managed social media use by peer supporters augmented conversations. A primary outcome of ‘always safer sex’ was identified, measured as no sex or always condom use for vaginal or anal sex in the last 6 months. The intervention cost £42 per student. Six progression criteria were met. A seventh criterion (regarding uptake of role by peer supporters) was not.
Limitations
Small feasibility study that cannot comment on effectiveness.
Conclusions
The STASH intervention is feasible and acceptable within the context of Scottish secondary schools. The results support continuation to a full-scale evaluation.
Future work
Small-scale improvements to the intervention, refinement to programme theory and funding sought for full-scale evaluation.
Trial registration
Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN97369178.
Funding
This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Public Health Research programme and will be published in full in Public Health Research; Vol. 8, No. 15. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirstin R Mitchell
- Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Carrie Purcell
- Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Ross Forsyth
- Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Sarah Barry
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Strathclyde University, Glasgow, UK
| | - Rachael Hunter
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sharon A Simpson
- Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Lisa McDaid
- Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Lawrie Elliot
- Department of Nursing and Community Health, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - Mark McCann
- Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Kirsty Wetherall
- Robertson Centre for Biostatistics, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Chiara Broccatelli
- Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Julia V Bailey
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Laurence Moore
- Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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22
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Veronese V, Ryan KE, Hughes C, Lim MS, Pedrana A, Stoové M. Using Digital Communication Technology to Increase HIV Testing Among Men Who Have Sex With Men and Transgender Women: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Med Internet Res 2020; 22:e14230. [PMID: 32720902 PMCID: PMC7420634 DOI: 10.2196/14230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV continues to disproportionately affect men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TW). Undiagnosed HIV is a major driver of HIV transmission rates, and increasing the uptake of regular HIV testing and facilitating timely initiation of HIV treatment is a global HIV prevention priority. However, MSM and TW experience a range of barriers that limit their access to testing and other prevention services. Given their growing ubiquity, digital communication technologies are increasingly being used to support HIV prevention efforts, and a growing number of studies have trialed the use of digital technology to promote HIV testing among MSM and TW. OBJECTIVE We undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the impact of digital communication technology on HIV testing uptake among MSM and TW. Subanalyses aimed to identify the features and characteristics of digital interventions associated with greater impact. METHODS A systematic literature review was undertaken using select databases and conference repositories. Studies describing the use of a digital technology-internet-enabled devices, including phones, tablets, and computers-to increase HIV testing uptake among MSM or TW using either randomized or observational cohort design with measurement of HIV testing rates measured pre- and postintervention, and published in English between 2010 and 2018 were included. Pooled effect estimates were calculated using a random effects meta-analysis. Subanalyses calculated effect estimates grouped by selected features of digital interventions. RESULTS A total of 13 randomized or observational studies were included in the final review. Digital interventions most commonly used mainstream, existing social media platforms (n=7) or promotion through online peer educators (n=5). Most interventions (n=8) were categorized as interactive and allowed user engagement and most directly facilitated testing (n=7) either by providing self-testing kits or referral to testing services. A total of 1930 participants were included across the 13 studies. HIV testing uptake among MSM and TW exposed to digital interventions was 1.5 times higher than that of unexposed MSM and TW (risk ratio [RR] 1.5; 95% CI 1.3-1.7). Subanalyses suggested an increased impact on HIV testing uptake among interventions that were delivered through mainstream social media-based platforms (RR 1.7; 95% CI 1.3-2.1), included direct facilitation of HIV testing (RR 1.6; 95% CI 1.4-1.9), were interactive (RR 1.6; 95% CI 1.4-1.8), and involved end users in the design process (RR 1.6; 95% CI 1.3-2.0). CONCLUSIONS These findings provide broad support for the integration of technology with existing approaches to promote and facilitate HIV testing among MSM and TW. Our findings identified key features that may be associated with greater impact on HIV testing uptake and can be used to inform future development efforts given the growing interest and application of digital technologies in HIV prevention. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42017070055; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42017070055.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Veronese
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Chad Hughes
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Megan Sc Lim
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alisa Pedrana
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mark Stoové
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
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Ooi CY, Ng CJ, Sales AE, Lim HM. Implementation Strategies for Web-Based Apps for Screening: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2020; 22:e15591. [PMID: 32706655 PMCID: PMC7400029 DOI: 10.2196/15591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Screening is an effective primary prevention strategy in health care, as it enables the early detection of diseases. However, the uptake of such screening remains low. Different delivery methods for screening have been developed and found to be effective in increasing the uptake of screening, including the use of web-based apps. Studies have shown that web-based apps for screening are effective in increasing the uptake of health screening among the general population. However, not much is known about the effective implementation of such web-based apps in the real-world setting. Implementation strategies are theory-based methods or techniques used to enhance the adoption, implementation, and sustainability of evidence-based interventions. Implementation strategies are important, as they allow us to understand how to implement an evidence-based intervention. Therefore, a scoping review to identify the various implementation strategies for web-based apps for screening is warranted. Objective This scoping review aims to identify (1) strategies used to implement web-based apps for health screening, (2) frameworks used for implementing web-based apps for health screening, (3) outcome measures of implementation strategies, and (4) effective implementation strategies. Methods This scoping review was conducted based on Arksey and O’Malley’s framework. After identifying the review question, two researchers independently screened and selected relevant literature from PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsycINFO, International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number Registry, OpenGrey, ClinicalTrials.gov, World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, and Web of Science. This was followed by charting the data using a standardized form. Finally, we collated, summarized, and reported the results quantitatively and qualitatively based on the review objectives. Results A total of 16,476 studies were retrieved, of which 5669 were duplicates. From a total of 10,807 studies, 10,784 studies were excluded based on their titles and abstracts. There were 23 full-text articles reviewed, and 4 articles were included in the final analysis. Many studies were excluded because they focused on the effectiveness and not on the implementation of web-based apps. Facilitation was the most cited implementation strategy used, followed by reminders, clinical champions, and educational meetings and materials. Only 2 studies used implementation frameworks to guide the evaluation of their studies. Common outcome measures for implementation strategies were feasibility, fidelity, and penetration. Implementation strategies reported to be effective were quality improvement meetings, facilitation, educational meetings, and clinical champions. Conclusions There is a dearth of literature on the implementation of web-based apps for health screening. Implementation strategies were developed without any reported use of implementation theories or frameworks in most studies. More research on the development and evaluation of web-based screening app implementations is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chor Yau Ooi
- University of Malaya eHealth Initiative, Department of Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, Kota Samarahan, Malaysia
| | - Chirk Jenn Ng
- University of Malaya eHealth Initiative, Department of Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Anne E Sales
- Center for Clinical Management Research, Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.,University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Hooi Min Lim
- University of Malaya eHealth Initiative, Department of Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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24
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Palmer MJ, Henschke N, Villanueva G, Maayan N, Bergman H, Glenton C, Lewin S, Fønhus MS, Tamrat T, Mehl GL, Free C. Targeted client communication via mobile devices for improving sexual and reproductive health. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 8:CD013680. [PMID: 32779730 PMCID: PMC8409381 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The burden of poor sexual and reproductive health (SRH) worldwide is substantial, disproportionately affecting those living in low- and middle-income countries. Targeted client communication (TCC) delivered via mobile devices (MD) (TCCMD) may improve the health behaviours and service use important for sexual and reproductive health. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of TCC via MD on adolescents' knowledge, and on adolescents' and adults' sexual and reproductive health behaviour, health service use, and health and well-being. SEARCH METHODS In July/August 2017, we searched five databases including The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE and Embase. We also searched two trial registries. A search update was carried out in July 2019 and potentially relevant studies are awaiting classification. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials of TCC via MD to improve sexual and reproductive health behaviour, health service use, and health and well-being. Eligible comparators were standard care or no intervention, non-digital TCC, and digital non-targeted communication. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard methodological procedures recommended by Cochrane, although data extraction and risk of bias assessments were carried out by one person only and cross-checked by a second. We have presented results separately for adult and adolescent populations, and for each comparison. MAIN RESULTS We included 40 trials (27 among adult populations and 13 among adolescent populations) with a total of 26,854 participants. All but one of the trials among adolescent populations were conducted in high-income countries. Trials among adult populations were conducted in a range of high- to low-income countries. Among adolescents, nine interventions were delivered solely through text messages; four interventions tested text messages in combination with another communication channel, such as emails, multimedia messaging, or voice calls; and one intervention used voice calls alone. Among adults, 20 interventions were delivered through text messages; two through a combination of text messages and voice calls; and the rest were delivered through other channels such as voice calls, multimedia messaging, interactive voice response, and instant messaging services. Adolescent populations TCCMD versus standard care TCCMD may increase sexual health knowledge (risk ratio (RR) 1.45, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.23 to 1.71; low-certainty evidence). TCCMD may modestly increase contraception use (RR 1.19, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.35; low-certainty evidence). The effects on condom use, antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence, and health service use are uncertain due to very low-certainty evidence. The effects on abortion and STI rates are unknown due to lack of studies. TCCMD versus non-digital TCC (e.g. pamphlets) The effects of TCCMD on behaviour (contraception use, condom use, ART adherence), service use, health and wellbeing (abortion and STI rates) are unknown due to lack of studies for this comparison. TCCMD versus digital non-targeted communication The effects on sexual health knowledge, condom and contraceptive use are uncertain due to very low-certainty evidence. Interventions may increase health service use (attendance for STI/HIV testing, RR 1.61, 95% CI 1.08 to 2.40; low-certainty evidence). The intervention may be beneficial for reducing STI rates (RR 0.61, 95% CI 0.28 to 1.33; low-certainty evidence), but the confidence interval encompasses both benefit and harm. The effects on abortion rates and on ART adherence are unknown due to lack of studies. We are uncertain whether TCCMD results in unintended consequences due to lack of evidence. Adult populations TCCMD versus standard care For health behaviours, TCCMD may modestly increase contraception use at 12 months (RR 1.17, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.48) and may reduce repeat abortion (RR 0.68 95% CI 0.28 to 1.66), though the confidence interval encompasses benefit and harm (low-certainty evidence). The effect on condom use is uncertain. No study measured the impact of this intervention on STI rates. TCCMD may modestly increase ART adherence (RR 1.13, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.32, low-certainty evidence, and standardised mean difference 0.44, 95% CI -0.14 to 1.02, low-certainty evidence). TCCMD may modestly increase health service utilisation (RR 1.17, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.31; low-certainty evidence), but there was substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 85%), with mixed results according to type of service utilisation (i.e. attendance for STI testing; HIV treatment; voluntary male medical circumcision (VMMC); VMMC post-operative visit; post-abortion care). For health and well-being outcomes, there may be little or no effect on CD4 count (mean difference 13.99, 95% CI -8.65 to 36.63; low-certainty evidence) and a slight reduction in virological failure (RR 0.86, 95% CI 0.73 to 1.01; low-certainty evidence). TCCMD versus non-digital TCC No studies reported STI rates, condom use, ART adherence, abortion rates, or contraceptive use as outcomes for this comparison. TCCMD may modestly increase in service attendance overall (RR: 1.12, 95% CI 0.92-1.35, low certainty evidence), however the confidence interval encompasses benefit and harm. TCCMD versus digital non-targeted communication No studies reported STI rates, condom use, ART adherence, abortion rates, or contraceptive use as outcomes for this comparison. TCCMD may increase service utilisation overall (RR: 1.71, 95% CI 0.67-4.38, low certainty evidence), however the confidence interval encompasses benefit and harm and there was considerable heterogeneity (I2 = 72%), with mixed results according to type of service utilisation (STI/HIV testing, and VMMC). Few studies reported on unintended consequences. One study reported that a participant withdrew from the intervention as they felt it compromised their undisclosed HIV status. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS TCCMD may improve some outcomes but the evidence is of low certainty. The effect on most outcomes is uncertain/unknown due to very low certainty evidence or lack of evidence. High quality, adequately powered trials and cost effectiveness analyses are required to reliably ascertain the effects and relative benefits of TCC delivered by mobile devices. Given the sensitivity and stigma associated with sexual and reproductive health future studies should measure unintended consequences, such as partner violence or breaches of confidentiality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa J Palmer
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Simon Lewin
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Tigest Tamrat
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Garrett L Mehl
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Caroline Free
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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The safe use of dating applications among men who have sex with men: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial to evaluate an interactive web-based intervention to reduce risky sexual behaviours. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:795. [PMID: 32460748 PMCID: PMC7251668 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-08914-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Notably, both international and local studies have found a high prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and risky sexual behaviours, such as condomless anal sex, substance misuse in conjunction with sex (‘chemsex’) and group sex, among men who have sex with men (MSM) dating application (app) users. Although the use of dating apps is an emerging sexual risk factor, little effort has been expended on the promotion of safe sex and good sexual health among the users of those apps. Therefore, the aim of the proposed study is to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of an interactive web-based intervention in improving the sexual health of MSM dating app users in Hong Kong. Methods A two-armed randomised controlled trial will be conducted. Chinese MSM dating app users will be recruited and randomly allocated into either the intervention (n = 200) or control group (n = 200). Subjects in the intervention group will receive the web-based intervention containing interactive content that (1) encourages a positive attitude towards consistent condom use and HIV/STI testing and negative attitude towards chemsex and group sex; (2) positions condom use and regular HIV/STI testing as normative; and (3) targets improved perceived self-efficacy concerning condom use and negotiation and HIV/STI testing. The control group will receive only web-based information without sexual health components. Subjects in both groups will be evaluated at baseline and three and 6 months after baseline. The primary outcome will be the frequency of condomless anal sex in the past 3 months. Discussion The proposed study will aid development of culturally relevant health promotion programmes aimed at minimising the potential harm of dating app use and promoting the sexual health of MSM dating app users. The web-based intervention, if found successful, will have important clinical and policy implications, as it can be adopted by the government and non-governmental organisations targeting MSM. Moreover, the proposed intervention can reach many MSM at relatively low cost, and thus has the potential to check the burgeoning HIV/STI epidemic among MSM in Hong Kong in a cost-effective manner. Trial registration International standard randomized controlled trial number (ISRCTN) registry: ISRCTN16681863 registered on 28 April 2020.
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Can Teenage Men Be Targeted to Prevent Teenage Pregnancy? A Feasibility Cluster Randomised Controlled Intervention Trial in Schools. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2019; 19:1079-1090. [PMID: 30022356 PMCID: PMC6208578 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-018-0928-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The World Health Organisation advocates a direct focus on adolescent men in reducing adolescent pregnancy; however, no trials have been conducted. This trial (ISRCTN11632300; NCT02092480) determines whether a novel Relationship and Sexuality Educational intervention, If I Were Jack, is acceptable and feasible to implement in mixed sex UK classrooms. The intervention is a teacher-delivered intervention that emphasises male alongside female responsibility in preventing unintended pregnancies and is designed to prevent unprotected sex. The trial was a parallel-group cluster randomised controlled feasibility trial with embedded process and cost evaluation in eight secondary schools (unit of randomisation) among 831 pupils (mean age 14) in Northern Ireland, alongside a qualitative evaluation of transferability in ten schools in Scotland, Wales and England. The sampling strategy was a maximum variation quota sample designed to capture a range of school management types. Four schools were randomised to each arm and the control arm continued with usual practice. Study duration was 12 months (from November 2014), with follow-up 9 months post-baseline. Results demonstrated that the intervention was acceptable to schools, pupils and teachers, and could be feasibly implemented, cost-effectively, with minor enhancements. The between-group difference in incidence of unprotected sex (primary outcome at pupil level) of 1.3% (95% CI 0.5–2.2) by 9 months demonstrated a potential effect size consistent with those reported to have had meaningful impact on teenage pregnancy. The study responds to global health policy for a paradigm shift towards inclusion of men in the achievement of sexual and reproductive health goals in a practical way by demonstrating that a gender-sensitive as well as a gender transformative intervention targeting males to prevent teenage pregnancy is acceptable to adolescent men and women and implementable in formal education structures. If I Were Jack now merits further effectiveness testing.
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Hobbs LJ, Mitchell KR, Graham CA, Trifonova V, Bailey J, Murray E, Prah P, Mercer CH. Help-Seeking for Sexual Difficulties and the Potential Role of Interactive Digital Interventions: Findings From the Third British National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2019; 56:937-946. [PMID: 30907691 PMCID: PMC6816537 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2019.1586820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Sexual difficulties are common and can negatively impact health and well-being. A wide range of support is available, but there are multiple barriers to accessing help. Interactive digital interventions (IDIs) for sexual difficulties have the potential to provide a convenient, wide-reaching, and cost-effective source of support, but little is known about who might use them. We explored the potential reach of IDIs by assessing the prevalence of help-seeking among people with distressing sexual difficulties, including who seeks which sources of help. Data came from sexually active men and women, ages 16 to 74, participating in Britain's third National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles (Natsal-3) (N = 11,637). Help/advice was sought by less than half of those with distressing sexual difficulties, and help-seeking was associated with younger age in women but not men. The most popular sources of support were family doctor (47.5% to 54.8%), Internet (22.0% to 25.6%), and family/friend (20.7% to 41.8%), with older participants (≥ 35), particularly men, preferring to seek help from a family doctor, and younger participants (<35) preferring to seek help from the Internet or family/friend. Despite a paucity of good digital support sites for sexual function, the Internet is a common source of help. As Internet access continues to increase, so too does the potential for well-designed IDIs to support those with sexual difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorna J. Hobbs
- eHealth Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London
| | | | | | | | - Julia Bailey
- eHealth Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London
| | - Elizabeth Murray
- eHealth Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London
| | - Phil Prah
- Institute for Global Health, University College London
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Cheng W, Xu H, Tang W, Zhong F, Meng G, Han Z, Zhao J. Online HIV prevention intervention on condomless sex among men who have sex with men: a web-based randomized controlled trial. BMC Infect Dis 2019; 19:644. [PMID: 31324233 PMCID: PMC6642590 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-019-4251-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Given the widespread use of the Internet among men who have sex with men (MSM) and high risk of Internet-facilitated sexual behaviors, Internet-based interventions to reduce sexual risk are urgently needed. Methods We recruited 1,100 participants from online and randomly assigned to two groups. One group received online HIV intervention services. Online HIV intervention was developed through mix-method formative research, measures included scenarios experiencing intervention and HIV information dissemination. Self-reported condomless anal sex with a male in the past three months was measured to evaluate the intervention effect. Result Of the 1,100 participants, the majority were aged between 21 and 30 years old (62%), had a college degree or higher (80%), were single (88%), and self-identified as homosexual (78%). The estimated risk difference of condomless sex with a male in the past three months between groups was 9.3% (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.1, 17.5%). Using multiple imputations intention-to-treat, the estimated risk difference was 8.9% (95%CI: 1.2, 16.6%). Modification effects were found between intervention and characteristics including: educational attainment (p = 0.012), marital status (p = 0.005) and awareness of AIDS-related knowledge (p = 0.010). Conclusion Internet appears to be a promising approach to disseminate HIV prevention amongst MSM. Interactive online intervention appeals to MSM and poses a great potential for reducing HIV risky behavior. Trial registration ChiCTR1800014260 (retrospectively registered 2 Jan, 2018). Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12879-019-4251-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weibin Cheng
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No.1, Qide Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510440, Guangdong, China. .,Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, No.2 Lujing Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510095, Guangdong, China.
| | - Huifang Xu
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No.1, Qide Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510440, Guangdong, China.
| | - Weiming Tang
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, No.2 Lujing Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510095, Guangdong, China.,University of North Carolina Project-China, No.2 Lujing Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510095, Guangdong, China
| | - Fei Zhong
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No.1, Qide Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510440, Guangdong, China
| | - Gang Meng
- Lingnan Partners Community Support Center A2-Tianwenyuan, Tiyuxi road, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhigang Han
- Department of HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No.1, Qide Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510440, Guangdong, China
| | - Jinkou Zhao
- The Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, Chemin de Blandonnet 8
- 1214 Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland
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Beard E, West R, Lorencatto F, Gardner B, Michie S, Owens L, Shahab L. What do cost-effective health behaviour-change interventions contain? A comparison of six domains. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0213983. [PMID: 30995224 PMCID: PMC6469762 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0213983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To help implement behaviour change interventions (BCIs) in practice it is important to be able to characterize their key components. This study compared broad features of cost-effective BCIs that addressed smoking, diet, physical activity, alcohol and sexual health. It also assessed the association of these with the magnitude of the cost-effectiveness estimates. METHODS A content analysis of 79 interventions based on 338 intervention descriptions was conducted, using the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) to classify intervention content in terms of intervention functions, and the BCT taxonomy to identify and categorise component Behaviour Change Techniques (BCT). Regression analysis identified the association of these with upper (pessimistic) and lower (optimistic) cost-effectiveness estimates. RESULTS The most and least common functions and BCT clusters were education (82.3%) and shaping knowledge (79.7%), and coercion (3.8%) and covert learning (2.5%). Smoking interventions contained the largest ([Formula: see text] = 12) number of BCTs and were most cost-effective. Several other factors were associated with worse (coercionfunction βupper = 36551.24; shaping knowledgeBCT βlower = 2427.78; comparison of outcomesBCT βupper = 9067.32; repetition and substitutionBCT βupper = 7172.47) and better (modellingfunction βlower = -2905.3; environmental restructuringfunction βupper = -8646.28; reward and threatBCT βupper = -5577.59) cost-effectiveness (p<0.05). DISCUSSION Cost-effective BCIs rely heavily on education with smoking interventions exhibiting the most comprehensive range of BCTs. Providing an example to aspire to, restructuring the environment and rewarding positive behaviour may be associated with greater cost-effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Beard
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robert West
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fabiana Lorencatto
- Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, Centre for Outcomes Research and Effectiveness, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ben Gardner
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Susan Michie
- Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, Centre for Outcomes Research and Effectiveness, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lesley Owens
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, NICE, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lion Shahab
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Lau STH, Choi KWY, Chen J, Mak WPH, Yeung HKCA, Tucker J, Wong WCW. Study protocol for a peer-led web-based intervention to promote safe usage of dating applications among young adults: a cluster randomized controlled trial. Trials 2019; 20:102. [PMID: 30728064 PMCID: PMC6364485 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-018-3167-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dating applications are a popular platform to meet new people. At the same time, they have been associated with risks such as unsafe sexual behavior and privacy concerns in young adults. This paper presents a study protocol of a cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the effectiveness of a peer-led web-based intervention to promote its safe usage in young adults. METHODS The study design is an open-labeled cluster RCT with an intervention and a placebo control arm. The intervention group will receive a web-based intervention developed through focus group discussions, a crowdsourcing contest, and a Peer-Vetted Creative Production (PVCP) workshop. The control group will receive a web-based resource on health and exercise. We aim to recruit approximately 338 young adults aged 17-27 years from three tertiary educational institutions in Hong Kong with the class as the cluster unit. Based on the Information, Motivation, and Behavioral Skills (IMB) model, the primary outcome of this study is self-efficacy in using dating applications measured by the General Self Efficacy Scale. Secondary outcomes include change in risk perception measured by the Risk Propensity Scale and a Risk Assessment Tool. Questionnaires will be administered before the intervention, after the intervention, and at one-month follow-up. Intention-to-treat analysis and multilevel regression modeling will be used to evaluate differences in outcomes between groups and the factors affecting these outcomes, respectively. DISCUSSION Dating application usage presents opportunities as well as challenges to young adults meeting new friends. Innovative and relatable interventions are needed to promote the safe usage of dating applications to this population. Practical knowledge gained from the development process may be helpful for future intervention utilizing the peer-led approach. If effective, the intervention will be disseminated to non-governmental organizations and educational institutions to be used as a teaching resource. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03685643 . Registered on 26 September 2018. University of Hong Kong Clinical Trials Registry, HKUCTR-2512.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Tsz Hei Lau
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Kitty Wai Ying Choi
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Julie Chen
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | | | - Ho Kong Christopher Au Yeung
- Department of Social Science, School of Humanities and Social Science, Hang Seng Management College, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Joseph Tucker
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - William Chi-Wai Wong
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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STI Health Disparities: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Effectiveness of Preventive Interventions in Educational Settings. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15122819. [PMID: 30544919 PMCID: PMC6313766 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15122819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Revised: 12/08/2018] [Accepted: 12/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to address disparities related to sexual health among students by examining the effectiveness of sexually transmitted infection (STI) preventive interventions in educational settings. PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library, Public Health Database, and EMBASE databases were used to conduct searches. Information relating to studies, programs, participants, and quantitative outcome variables were extracted. Risk of bias was assessed and meta-analysis was conducted. This systematic review included 16 articles. The outcomes were classified into behavioral and psychosocial categories. The behavioral category included sexual partners, sexual activity, condom use, STI/HIV testing, and alcohol/drug use before sex. The psychosocial category consisted of knowledge, motivational factors, and skills. Interventions had a significantly positive impact on both behavioral (OR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.17–1.39) and psychosocial (OR, 1.92; 95% CI, 1.36–2.72) outcomes. Among the psychosocial outcomes, the interventions were most effective at promoting knowledge (OR, 3.17; 95% CI, 2.13–4.72), followed by enhancing motivational factors (OR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.04–2.75) and increasing behavioral skills (OR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.13–1.81). The results of this systematic review provide empirical evidence for public health professionals and policy makers regarding planning, implementation, evaluation, and modification of STI preventive intervention programs in educational settings.
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Murray E, Ross J, Pal K, Li J, Dack C, Stevenson F, Sweeting M, Parrott S, Barnard M, Yardley L, Michie S, May C, Patterson D, Alkhaldi G, Fisher B, Farmer A, O’Donnell O. A web-based self-management programme for people with type 2 diabetes: the HeLP-Diabetes research programme including RCT. PROGRAMME GRANTS FOR APPLIED RESEARCH 2018. [DOI: 10.3310/pgfar06050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Background
In the UK, 6% of the UK population have diabetes mellitus, 90% of whom have type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Diabetes mellitus accounts for 10% of NHS expenditure (£14B annually). Good self-management may improve health outcomes. NHS policy is to refer all people with T2DM to structured education, on diagnosis, to improve their self-management skills, with annual reinforcement thereafter. However, uptake remains low (5.6% in 2014–15). Almost all structured education is group based, which may not suit people who work, who have family or other caring commitments or who simply do not like group-based formats. Moreover, patient needs vary with time and a single education session at diagnosis is unlikely to meet these evolving needs. A web-based programme may increase uptake.
Objectives
Our aim was to develop, evaluate and implement a web-based self-management programme for people with T2DM at any stage of their illness journey, with the goal of improving access to, and uptake of, self-management support, thereby improving health outcomes in a cost-effective manner. Specific objectives were to (1) develop an evidence-based theoretically informed programme that was acceptable to patients and health-care professionals (HCPs) and that could be readily implemented within routine NHS care, (2) determine the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the programme compared with usual care and (3) determine how best to integrate the programme into routine care.
Design
There were five linked work packages (WPs). WP A determined patient requirements and WP B determined HCP requirements for the self-management programme. WP C developed and user-tested the Healthy Living for People with type 2 Diabetes (HeLP-Diabetes) programme. WP D was an individually randomised controlled trial in primary care with a health economic analysis. WP E used a mixed-methods and case-study design to study the potential for implementing the HeLP-Diabetes programme within routine NHS practice.
Setting
English primary care.
Participants
People with T2DM (WPs A, D and E) or HCPs caring for people with T2DM (WPs B, C and E).
Intervention
The HeLP-Diabetes programme; an evidence-based theoretically informed web-based self-management programme for people with T2DM at all stages of their illness journey, developed using participatory design principles.
Main outcome measures
WPs A and B provided data on user ‘wants and needs’, including factors that would improve the uptake and accessibility of the HeLP-Diabetes programme. The outcome for WP C was the HeLP-Diabetes programme itself. The trial (WP D) had two outcomes measures: glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) level and diabetes mellitus-related distress, as measured with the Problem Areas in Diabetes (PAID) scale. The implementation outcomes (WP E) were the adoption and uptake at clinical commissioning group, general practice and patient levels and the identification of key barriers and facilitators.
Results
Data from WPs A and B supported our holistic approach and addressed all areas of self-management (medical, emotional and role management). HCPs voiced concerns about linkage with the electronic medical records (EMRs) and supporting patients to use the programme. The HeLP-Diabetes programme was developed and user-tested in WP C. The trial (WP D) recruited to target (n = 374), achieved follow-up rates of over 80% and the intention-to-treat analysis showed that there was an additional improvement in HbA1c levels at 12 months in the intervention group [mean difference –0.24%, 95% confidence interval (CI) –0.44% to –0.049%]. There was no difference in overall PAID score levels (mean difference –1.5 points, 95% CI –3.9 to 0.9 points). The within-trial health economic analysis found that incremental costs were lower in the intervention group than in the control group (mean difference –£111, 95% CI –£384 to £136) and the quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) were higher (mean difference 0.02 QALYs, 95% CI 0.000 to 0.044 QALYs), meaning that the HeLP-Diabetes programme group dominated the control group. In WP E, we found that the HeLP-Diabetes programme could be successfully implemented in primary care. General practices that supported people in registering for the HeLP-Diabetes programme had better uptake and registered patients from a wider demographic than those relying on patient self-registration. Some HCPs were reluctant to do this, as they did not see it as part of their professional role.
Limitations
We were unable to link the HeLP-Diabetes programme with the EMRs or to determine the effects of the HeLP-Diabetes programme on users in the implementation study.
Conclusions
The HeLP-Diabetes programme is an effective self-management support programme that is implementable in primary care.
Future work
The HeLP-Diabetes research team will explore the following in future work: research to determine how to improve patient uptake of self-management support; develop and evaluate a structured digital educational pathway for newly diagnosed people; develop and evaluate a digital T2DM prevention programme; and the national implementation of the HeLP-Diabetes programme.
Trial registration
Research Ethics Committee reference number 10/H0722/86 for WPs A–C; Research Ethics Committee reference number 12/LO/1571 and UK Clinical Research Network/National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Portfolio 13563 for WP D; and Research Ethics Committee 13/EM/0033 for WP E. In addition, for WP D, the study was registered with the International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Register as reference number ISRCTN02123133.
Funding details
This project was funded by the NIHR Programme Grants for Applied Research programme and will be published in full in Programme Grants for Applied Research; Vol. 6, No. 5. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Murray
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jamie Ross
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Kingshuk Pal
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jinshuo Li
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, Heslington, York, UK
| | - Charlotte Dack
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Fiona Stevenson
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Michael Sweeting
- Cardiovascular Epidemiology Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Steve Parrott
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, Heslington, York, UK
| | - Maria Barnard
- Whittington Hospital, Whittington Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Lucy Yardley
- Department of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Susan Michie
- Centre for Behaviour Change, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Carl May
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - David Patterson
- Whittington Hospital, Whittington Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Ghadah Alkhaldi
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
- Community Health Sciences Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Brian Fisher
- Patient Access to Electronic Records Systems Ltd (PAERS), Evergreen Life, Manchester, UK
| | - Andrew Farmer
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Orla O’Donnell
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
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Vugts MA, Joosen MC, Mert A, Zedlitz AM, Vrijhoef HJ. Effectiveness of Serious Gaming During the Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation of Patients With Complex Chronic Pain or Fatigue: Natural Quasi-Experiment. J Med Internet Res 2018; 20:e250. [PMID: 30111527 PMCID: PMC6115601 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.9739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2017] [Revised: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current evidence for the effectiveness of specialist multidisciplinary programs for burdensome chronic pain and functional somatic syndromes drives the effort to improve approaches, strategies, and delivery modes. It remains unknown to what extent and in what respect serious gaming during the regular outpatient rehabilitation can contribute to health outcomes. OBJECTIVE The objectives of our study were to determine the effect of additional serious gaming on (1) physical and emotional functioning in general; (2) particular outcome domains; and (3) patient global impressions of change, general health, and functioning and to determine (4) the dependency of serious gaming effects on adherence. METHODS We conducted a naturalistic quasi-experiment using embedded qualitative methods. The intervention group patients received an additional guided (mindfulness-based) serious gaming intervention during weeks 9-12 of a 16-week rehabilitation program at 2 sites of a Dutch rehabilitation clinic. Simultaneously, 119 control group patients followed the same program without serious gaming at 2 similar sites of the same clinic. Data consisted of 10 semistructured patient interviews and routinely collected patient self-reported outcomes. First, multivariate linear mixed modeling was used to simultaneously estimate a group effect on the outcome change between weeks 8 and 16 in 4 primary outcomes: current pain intensity, fatigue, pain catastrophizing, and psychological distress. Second, similar univariate linear mixed models were used to estimate effects on particular (unstandardized) outcomes. Third, secondary outcomes (ie, global impression of change, general health, functioning, and treatment satisfaction) were compared between the groups using independent t tests. Finally, subgroups were established according to the levels of adherence using log data. Influences of observed confounding factors were considered throughout analyses. RESULTS Of 329 eligible patients, 156 intervention group and 119 control group patients (N=275) with mostly chronic back pain and concomitant psychosocial problems participated in this study. Of all, 119 patients played ≥75% of the game. First, the standardized means across the 4 primary outcomes showed a significantly more favorable degree of change during the second part of the treatment for the intervention group than for the control group (beta=-0.119, SE=0.046, P=.009). Second, the intervention group showed a greater outcome change in depressive mood (b=-2.748, SE=1.072, P=.011) but not in "insufficiency" or concentration problems. Third, no significant group effects on secondary outcomes were found. Fourth, adherence was generally high and invariant. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study suggest a very small favorable average effect on relevant health outcomes of additional serious gaming during multidisciplinary rehabilitation. The indication that serious gaming could be a relatively time-efficient component warrants further research into if, when, how, and for which patients serious gaming could be cost-effective in treatment and why. TRIAL REGISTRATION Netherlands Trial Registry NTR6020; http://www.trialregister.nl/trialreg/admin/rctview.asp?TC=6020 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/71IIoTXkj).
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Affiliation(s)
- Miel Ap Vugts
- Tranzo Scientific Center for Care and Welfare, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - Margot Cw Joosen
- Tranzo Scientific Center for Care and Welfare, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | | | - Aglaia Me Zedlitz
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Department of Health Medical and Neuropsychology, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Hubertus Jm Vrijhoef
- Department of Family Medicine and Chronic Care, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Patient & Care, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Panaxea BV, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Lohan M, Aventin Á, Clarke M, Curran RM, Maguire L, Hunter R, McDowell C, McDaid L, Young H, White J, Fletcher A, French R, Bonell C, Bailey JV, O'Hare L. JACK trial protocol: a phase III multicentre cluster randomised controlled trial of a school-based relationship and sexuality education intervention focusing on young male perspectives. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e022128. [PMID: 30056390 PMCID: PMC6067362 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-022128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Teenage pregnancy remains a worldwide health concern which is an outcome of, and contributor to, health inequalities. The need for gender-aware interventions with a focus on males in addressing teenage pregnancy has been highlighted as a global health need by WHO and identified in systematic reviews of (relationship and sexuality education (RSE)). This study aims to test the effectiveness of an interactive film-based RSE intervention, which draws explicit attention to the role of males in preventing an unintended pregnancy by reducing unprotected heterosexual teenage sex among males and females under age 16 years. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A phase III cluster randomised trial with embedded process and economic evaluations. If I Were Jack encompasses a culturally sensitive interactive film, classroom materials, a teacher-trainer session and parent animations and will be delivered to replace some of the usual RSE for the target age group in schools in the intervention group. Schools in the control group will not receive the intervention and will continue with usual RSE. Participants will not be blinded to allocation. Schools are the unit of randomisation stratified per country and socioeconomic status. We aim to recruit 66 UK schools (24 in Northern Ireland; 14 in each of England, Scotland and Wales), including approximately 7900 pupils. A questionnaire will be administered at baseline and at 12-14 months postintervention. The primary outcome is reported unprotected sex, a surrogate measure associated with unintended teenage pregnancy. Secondary outcomes include knowledge, attitudes, skills and intentions relating to avoiding teenage pregnancy in addition to frequency of engagement in sexual intercourse, contraception use and diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval was obtained from Queen's University Belfast. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and disseminated to stakeholders. Funding is from the National Institute for Health Research. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN99459996.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Lohan
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Áine Aventin
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Mike Clarke
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- Northern Ireland Clinical Trials Unit, Belfast, UK
| | - Rhonda M Curran
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Lisa Maguire
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Rachael Hunter
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Lisa McDaid
- MRC/CSO Social & Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Honor Young
- The Centre for the Development and Evaluation of Complex Interventions for Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - James White
- The Centre for the Development and Evaluation of Complex Interventions for Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Rebecca French
- Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Christopher Bonell
- Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Julia V Bailey
- Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London
| | - Liam O'Hare
- Centre for Evidence and Social Innovation, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Hamilton FL, Hornby J, Sheringham J, Linke S, Ashton C, Moore K, Stevenson F, Murray E. DIAMOND (DIgital Alcohol Management ON Demand): a feasibility RCT and embedded process evaluation of a digital health intervention to reduce hazardous and harmful alcohol use recruiting in hospital emergency departments and online. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2018; 4:114. [PMID: 29946479 PMCID: PMC6003139 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-018-0303-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The harmful use of alcohol is a causal factor in more than 200 disease and injury conditions and leads to over 3 million deaths every year worldwide. Relatively few problem alcohol users access treatment due to stigma and lack of services. Alcohol-specific digital health interventions (DHI) may help them, but trial data comparing DHI with face-to-face treatment are lacking. METHODS We conducted a feasibility RCT of an alcohol DHI, testing recruitment, online data-collection and randomisation processes, with an embedded process evaluation. Recruitment ran from October 2015 for 12 months. Participants were adults, drinking at hazardous and harmful levels, recruited from hospital emergency departments (ED) in London or recruited online. Participants were randomised to HeLP-Alcohol, a six module DHI with weekly reminder prompts (phone, email or text message), or to face-to-face treatment as usual (TAU). Participants were invited to take part in qualitative interviews after the trial. RESULTS The trial website was accessed 1074 times: 420 people completed online eligibility questionnaires; 350 did not meet eligibility criteria, 51 declined to participate, and 19 were recruited and randomised. Follow-up data were collected from three participants (retention 3/19), and four agreed to be interviewed for the process evaluation. The main themes of the interviews were:Participants were not at equipoise. They wanted to try the website and were disappointed to be randomised to face-to-face, so they were less engaged and dropped out.Other reasons for drop out included not accepting that they had a drink problem; problem drinking interfering with their ability to take part in a trial or forgetting appointments; having a busy life and being randomised to TAU made it difficult to attend appointments. CONCLUSIONS This feasibility RCT aimed to test recruitment, randomisation, retention, and data collection methods, but recruited only 19 participants. This illustrates the importance of undertaking feasibility studies prior to fully powered RCTs. From the qualitative interviews we found that potential recruits were not at equipoise for recruitment. An alternative methodology, for example a preference RCT recruiting from multiple locations, needs to be explored in future trials. TRIAL REGISTRATION International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number: ISRCTN31789096.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona L. Hamilton
- eHealth Unit, Department of Primary Care & Population Health, University College London, Upper 3rd Floor, Royal Free Campus, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF UK
| | - Jo Hornby
- eHealth Unit, Department of Primary Care & Population Health, University College London, Upper 3rd Floor, Royal Free Campus, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF UK
| | | | - Stuart Linke
- Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Kevin Moore
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, UCL, London, UK
| | - Fiona Stevenson
- eHealth Unit, Department of Primary Care & Population Health, University College London, Upper 3rd Floor, Royal Free Campus, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF UK
| | - Elizabeth Murray
- eHealth Unit, Department of Primary Care & Population Health, University College London, Upper 3rd Floor, Royal Free Campus, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF UK
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Widman L, Nesi J, Kamke K, Choukas-Bradley S, Stewart JL. Technology-Based Interventions to Reduce Sexually Transmitted Infections and Unintended Pregnancy Among Youth. J Adolesc Health 2018; 62:651-660. [PMID: 29784112 PMCID: PMC5966833 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2018.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Revised: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Technology-based interventions to promote sexual health have proliferated in recent years, yet their efficacy among youth has not been meta-analyzed. This study synthesizes the literature on technology-based sexual health interventions among youth. METHODS Studies were included if they (1) sampled youth ages 13-24; (2) utilized technology-based platforms; (3) measured condom use or abstinence as outcomes; (4) evaluated program effects with experimental or quasi-experimental designs; and (5) were published in English. RESULTS Sixteen studies with 11,525 youth were synthesized. There was a significant weighted mean effect of technology-based interventions on condom use (d = .23, 95% confidence interval [CI] [.12, .34], p < .001) and abstinence (d = .21, 95% CI [.02, .40], p = .027). Effects did not differ by age, gender, country, intervention dose, interactivity, or program tailoring. However, effects were stronger when assessed with short-term (1-5 months) than with longer term (greater than 6 months) follow-ups. Compared with control programs, technology-based interventions were also more effective in increasing sexual health knowledge (d = .40, p < .001) and safer sex norms (d = .15, p = .022) and attitudes (d = .12, p= .016). CONCLUSIONS After 15 years of research on youth-focused technology-based interventions, this meta-analysis demonstrates their promise to improve safer sex behavior and cognitions. Future work should adapt interventions to extend their protective effects over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Widman
- Department of Psychology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina.
| | - Jacqueline Nesi
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Kristyn Kamke
- Department of Psychology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | | | - J L Stewart
- Department of Psychology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
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The effectiveness of various computer-based interventions for patients with chronic pain or functional somatic syndromes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0196467. [PMID: 29768436 PMCID: PMC5955495 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0196467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 04/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Computer-based interventions target improvement of physical and emotional functioning in patients with chronic pain and functional somatic syndromes. However, it is unclear to what extent which interventions work and for whom. This systematic review and meta-analysis (registered at PROSPERO, 2016: CRD42016050839) assesses efficacy relative to passive and active control conditions, and explores patient and intervention factors. Controlled studies were identified from MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychInfo, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. Pooled standardized mean differences by comparison type, and somatic symptom, health-related quality of life, functional interference, catastrophizing, and depression outcomes were calculated at post-treatment and at 6 or more months follow-up. Risk of bias was assessed. Sub-group analyses were performed by patient and intervention characteristics when heterogeneous outcomes were observed. Maximally, 30 out of 46 eligible studies and 3,387 participants were included per meta-analysis. Mostly, internet-based cognitive behavioral therapies were identified. Significantly higher patient reported outcomes were found in comparisons with passive control groups (standardized mean differences ranged between -.41 and -.18), but not in comparisons with active control groups (SMD = -.26 - -.14). For some outcomes, significant heterogeneity related to patient and intervention characteristics. To conclude, there is a minority of good quality evidence for small positive average effects of computer-based (cognitive) behavior change interventions, similar to traditional modes. These effects may be sustainable. Indications were found as of which interventions work better or more consistently across outcomes for which patients. Future process analyses are recommended in the aim of better understanding individual chances of clinically relevant outcomes.
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Bailey JV, Webster R, Hunter R, Griffin M, Freemantle N, Rait G, Estcourt C, Michie S, Anderson J, Stephenson J, Gerressu M, Ang CS, Murray E. The Men's Safer Sex project: intervention development and feasibility randomised controlled trial of an interactive digital intervention to increase condom use in men. Health Technol Assess 2018; 20:1-124. [PMID: 27966409 DOI: 10.3310/hta20910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This report details the development of the Men's Safer Sex website and the results of a feasibility randomised controlled trial (RCT), health economic assessment and qualitative evaluation. OBJECTIVES (1) Develop the Men's Safer Sex website to address barriers to condom use; (2) determine the best design for an online RCT; (3) inform the methods for collecting and analysing health economic data; (4) assess the Sexual Quality of Life (SQoL) questionnaire and European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions, three-level version (EQ-5D-3L) to calculate quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs); and (5) explore clinic staff and men's views of online research methodology. METHODS (1) Website development: we combined evidence from research literature and the views of experts (n = 18) and male clinic users (n = 43); (2) feasibility RCT: 159 heterosexually active men were recruited from three sexual health clinics and were randomised by computer to the Men's Safer Sex website plus usual care (n = 84) or usual clinic care only (n = 75). Men were invited to complete online questionnaires at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months, and sexually transmitted infection (STI) diagnoses were recorded from clinic notes at 12 months; (3) health economic evaluation: we investigated the impact of using different questionnaires to calculate utilities and QALYs (the EQ-5D-3L and SQoL questionnaire), and compared different methods to collect resource use; and (4) qualitative evaluation: thematic analysis of interviews with 11 male trial participants and nine clinic staff, as well as free-text comments from online outcome questionnaires. RESULTS (1) Software errors and clinic Wi-Fi access presented significant challenges. Response rates for online questionnaires were poor but improved with larger vouchers (from 36% with £10 to 50% with £30). Clinical records were located for 94% of participants for STI diagnoses. There were no group differences in condomless sex with female partners [incidence rate ratio (IRR) 1.01, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.52 to 1.96]. New STI diagnoses were recorded for 8.8% (7/80) of the intervention group and 13.0% (9/69) of the control group (IRR 0.75, 95% CI 0.29 to 1.89). (2) Health-care resource data were more complete using patient files than questionnaires. The probability that the intervention is cost-effective is sensitive to the source of data used and whether or not data on intended pregnancies are included. (3) The pilot RCT fitted well around clinical activities but 37% of the intervention group did not see the Men's Safer Sex website and technical problems were frustrating. Men's views of the Men's Safer Sex website and research procedures were largely positive. CONCLUSIONS It would be feasible to conduct a large-scale RCT using clinic STI diagnoses as a primary outcome; however, technical errors and a poor response rate limited the collection of online self-reported outcomes. The next steps are (1) to optimise software for online trials, (2) to find the best ways to integrate digital health promotion with clinical services, (3) to develop more precise methods for collecting resource use data and (4) to work out how to overcome barriers to digital intervention testing and implementation in the NHS. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN18649610. FUNDING This project was funded by the NIHR Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 20, No. 91. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia V Bailey
- E-Health unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rosie Webster
- E-Health unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rachael Hunter
- PRIMENT Clinical Trials Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Mark Griffin
- PRIMENT Clinical Trials Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nicholas Freemantle
- PRIMENT Clinical Trials Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Greta Rait
- PRIMENT Clinical Trials Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Claudia Estcourt
- Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Barts Sexual Health Centre, Queen Mary University of London, St Bartholomew's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Susan Michie
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jane Anderson
- Homerton Sexual Health Services, Homerton Teaching Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Judith Stephenson
- Department of Reproductive Health, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Makeda Gerressu
- Department of Infection and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Chee Siang Ang
- Engineering and Digital Arts, University of Kent, Kent, UK
| | - Elizabeth Murray
- E-Health unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
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Milward J, Drummond C, Fincham-Campbell S, Deluca P. What makes online substance-use interventions engaging? A systematic review and narrative synthesis. Digit Health 2018; 4:2055207617743354. [PMID: 29942622 PMCID: PMC6001270 DOI: 10.1177/2055207617743354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Online substance-use interventions are effective in producing reductions in harmful-use. However, low user engagement rates with online interventions reduces overall effectiveness of interventions. Identifying optimal strategies with which to engage users with online substance-use interventions may improve usage rates and subsequent effectiveness. Objectives (1) To identify the most prevalent engagement promoting strategies utilised to increase use of online substance-use interventions. (2) To determine whether the identified engagement promoting strategies increased said use of online substance-use interventions. Review methods The reviewed followed Cochrane methodology. Databases were searched for online substance-use interventions and engagement promoting strategies limited by study type (randomised controlled trial). Due to heterogeneity between engagement promoting strategies and engagement outcomes, meta-analytic techniques were not possible. Narrative synthesis methods were used. Results Fifteen studies were included. Five different engagement promoting strategies were identified: (1) tailoring; (2) delivery strategies; (3) incentives; (4) reminders; (5) social support. The most frequently reported engagement promoting strategies was tailoring (47% of studies), followed by reminders and social support (40% of studies) and delivery strategies (33% of studies). The narrative synthesis demonstrated that tailoring, multimedia delivery of content and reminders are potential techniques for promoting engagement. The evidence for social support was inconclusive and negative for incentives. Conclusions This review was the first to examine engagement promoting strategies in solely online substance-use interventions. Three strategies were identified that may be integral in promoting engagement with online substance-use interventions. However, the small number of eligible extracted studies, inconsistent reporting of engagement outcomes and diversity of engagement features prevent firmer conclusions. More high-quality trials examining engagement are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Milward
- Addictions Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
| | - Colin Drummond
- Addictions Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
| | | | - Paolo Deluca
- Addictions Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
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Sun WH, Miu HYH, Wong CKH, Tucker JD, Wong WCW. Assessing Participation and Effectiveness of the Peer-Led Approach in Youth Sexual Health Education: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis in More Developed Countries. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2018; 55:31-44. [PMID: 27898248 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2016.1247779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Sexual health education for young people is crucial not only for development of norms but also for protection against vulnerabilities during this stage in life. Although several systematic reviews have examined the effectiveness of peer-led sex education, none have focused on the extent of peer participation. The purpose of this review was to evaluate peer-led sexual health education interventions in more developed countries (MDCs). Electronic and manual searches across five social science, education, and medical databases were conducted. Fifteen articles were selected in total. Most (10 of 15) studies gave low or no responsibility to peers. The majority of articles found improvements in sexual health knowledge (13 of 14) and attitudes (11 of 15) at postintervention stages. Two studies showed improved self-efficacy, and three showed behavioral changes. A preliminary synthesis of effectiveness and level of participation was done. Meta-analysis revealed a large effect on knowledge change (Hedges' g = 0.84, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.43 to 1.25) and a medium effect on attitude change (Hedges' g = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.19 to 0.80). Peer-led interventions could be a powerful tool. This review shows that this approach is effective in changing knowledge and attitudes but not behaviors. Further research and action are needed to understand optimal implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai Han Sun
- a Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care , The University of Hong Kong
| | - Heidi Yin Hai Miu
- a Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care , The University of Hong Kong
| | - Carlos King Ho Wong
- a Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care , The University of Hong Kong
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Kalke KM, Ginossar T, Shah SFA, West AJ. Sex Ed to Go: A Content Analysis of Comprehensive Sexual Education Apps. HEALTH EDUCATION & BEHAVIOR 2017; 45:581-590. [PMID: 29284294 DOI: 10.1177/1090198117749259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Mobile applications ("apps") designed for sexual health education have the potential to reach teens and young adults that are hard to reach through traditional platforms; however, little is known about availability of these apps and their adherence to existing guidelines. Following a search on the two major app stores, data from 2,693 apps were analyzed. Only 697 (25%) addressed sexual health, and only 15 (1%) of apps met inclusion criteria for comprehensive programs and their content was further analyzed. The content of most of these apps narrowly focused on sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy prevention and lacked information on puberty, sexual identity, and personal safety. Theoretically grounded strategies including self-efficacy and modeling behavior to strengthen behavior change efforts were largely absent. Last, we identified significant shortcomings in the literate design of these apps, including limited use of interactive features, such as videos, quizzes, or games. These findings indicate that the potential of apps as sexual health promotion tools has not yet been fully realized. We outline recommendations for developing theory- and evidence-based sexual education apps and provide suggestions for health educators on how to select relevant apps when working for youth.
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Widman L, Golin CE, Kamke K, Burnette JL, Prinstein MJ. Sexual Assertiveness Skills and Sexual Decision-Making in Adolescent Girls: Randomized Controlled Trial of an Online Program. Am J Public Health 2017; 108:96-102. [PMID: 29161072 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2017.304106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the efficacy of an interactive, Web-based sexual health program (Health Education and Relationship Training [HEART]) for developing sexual assertiveness skills and enhancing sexual decision-making in adolescent girls. METHODS Participants were 222 tenth-grade girls (mean age = 15.2; 38% White, 29% Hispanic, 25% Black) in the Southeastern United States who were randomized in fall 2015 to the HEART intervention or an attention-matched control. We assessed participants at pretest, immediate posttest, and 4-month follow-up. RESULTS Both groups had similar demographic and sexual behavior characteristics at pretest. At immediate posttest, girls who completed the HEART program demonstrated better sexual assertiveness skills measured with a behavioral task, higher self-reported assertiveness, intentions to communicate about sexual health, knowledge regarding HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), safer sex norms and attitudes, and condom self-efficacy compared with the control condition. At 4-month follow-up, group differences remained in knowledge regarding HIV and other STDs, condom attitudes, and condom self-efficacy. CONCLUSIONS This brief online sexual health program can improve short-term outcomes among adolescent girls and offers an exciting new option in the growing array of digital health interventions available to youths. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02579135.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Widman
- Laura Widman, Kristyn Kamke, and Jeni L. Burnette are with North Carolina State University, Raleigh. Carol E. Golin and Mitchell J. Prinstein are with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Carol E Golin
- Laura Widman, Kristyn Kamke, and Jeni L. Burnette are with North Carolina State University, Raleigh. Carol E. Golin and Mitchell J. Prinstein are with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Kristyn Kamke
- Laura Widman, Kristyn Kamke, and Jeni L. Burnette are with North Carolina State University, Raleigh. Carol E. Golin and Mitchell J. Prinstein are with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Jeni L Burnette
- Laura Widman, Kristyn Kamke, and Jeni L. Burnette are with North Carolina State University, Raleigh. Carol E. Golin and Mitchell J. Prinstein are with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Mitchell J Prinstein
- Laura Widman, Kristyn Kamke, and Jeni L. Burnette are with North Carolina State University, Raleigh. Carol E. Golin and Mitchell J. Prinstein are with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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Nunn A, Crutzen R, Haag D, Chabot C, Carson A, Ogilvie G, Shoveller J, Gilbert M. Examining E-Loyalty in a Sexual Health Website: Cross-Sectional Study. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2017; 3:e75. [PMID: 29097352 PMCID: PMC5691242 DOI: 10.2196/publichealth.5393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2015] [Revised: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Web-based sexual health resources are typically evaluated in terms of their efficacy. Information is lacking about how sexual health promotion websites are perceived and used. It is essential to understand website use to address challenges with adherence and attrition to Web-based health interventions. An existing theoretical framework for examining loyalty to electronic health (eHealth) interventions has been not yet been applied in the context of sexual health promotion nor has the association between e-loyalty and intended intervention efficacy outcomes been investigated. Objective The objectives of this study were to investigate users’ loyalty toward a sexual health website (ie, e-loyalty), measure user perceptions of the website, and measure the association between e-loyalty and perceived knowledge increase and intent to change behavior. Methods Over 4 months, website users (clients and health care providers) participated in an open, online, cross-sectional survey about their user experiences that measured e-loyalty, user perceptions, and intended website efficacy outcomes. Relationships between user perceptions and e-loyalty were investigated using structural equation modeling (SEM). Associations between e-loyalty and website efficacy outcomes were tested using Spearman rank correlation. Results A total of 173 participants completed user perception questions and were included in the analysis. E-loyalty was high for both clients and providers and was significantly correlated with clients’ perceived knowledge increase (ρ(171)=.30, P<.001), their intent to have safer sex (ρ(171)=.24, P=.01), and their intent to get tested for sexually transmitted infections (ρ(171)=.37, P<.001). The SEM showed that trustworthiness, overall experience, active trust, and effectiveness were directly related to e-loyalty. Finding the website “easy to understand” was significantly related to active trust (ie, participants’ willingness to act upon information presented on the website). Conclusions E-loyalty may be related to the efficacy of the selected website in improving one’s sexual health and was significantly associated with all three intended knowledge and behavioral outcomes. To increase e-loyalty, trustworthiness and active trust are important user perceptions to deliberately engender. Our findings indicate that understanding a website contributes to active trust, thereby highlighting the importance of considering eHealth literacy in designing health promotion websites. Our study confirms the relevance of e-loyalty as an outcome for evaluating the antecedents of the use and efficacy of online public health interventions across disciplines by adapting and validating an existing e-loyalty framework to the field of sexual health promotion. Our findings suggest that e-loyalty is positively associated with measures of website efficacy, including increased knowledge and intent to change behavior. Longitudinal research with larger samples could further investigate the relationships between e-loyalty, website understandability, and outcomes of online health interventions to determine how the manipulation of website characteristics may impact user perceptions and e-loyalty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Nunn
- Clinical Prevention Services, British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Rik Crutzen
- Department of Health Promotion, CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Devon Haag
- Clinical Prevention Services, British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Cathy Chabot
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Anna Carson
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Gina Ogilvie
- Clinical Prevention Services, British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Women's Health Research Institute, BC Women's Hospital and Health Centre, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jean Shoveller
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Mark Gilbert
- Clinical Prevention Services, British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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44
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Webster R, Michie S, Estcourt C, Gerressu M, Bailey JV. Increasing condom use in heterosexual men: development of a theory-based interactive digital intervention. Transl Behav Med 2017; 6:418-27. [PMID: 27528531 PMCID: PMC4987598 DOI: 10.1007/s13142-015-0338-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing condom use to prevent sexually transmitted infections is a key public health goal. Interventions are more likely to be effective if they are theory- and evidence-based. The Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) provides a framework for intervention development. To provide an example of how the BCW was used to develop an intervention to increase condom use in heterosexual men (the MenSS website), the steps of the BCW intervention development process were followed, incorporating evidence from the research literature and views of experts and the target population. Capability (e.g. knowledge) and motivation (e.g. beliefs about pleasure) were identified as important targets of the intervention. We devised ways to address each intervention target, including selecting interactive features and behaviour change techniques. The BCW provides a useful framework for integrating sources of evidence to inform intervention content and deciding which influences on behaviour to target.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Webster
- eHealth Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, Royal Free Hospital, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - S Michie
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational, and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - C Estcourt
- BICMS, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Barts Sexual Health Centre, Queen Mary University of London, St Bartholomew's Hospital, London, UK
| | - M Gerressu
- Department of Infection and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - J V Bailey
- eHealth Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, Royal Free Hospital, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK.
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45
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Karamouzian M, Shoveller J, Dong H, Gilbert M, Kerr T, DeBeck K. Perceived Devaluation and STI Testing Uptake among a Cohort of Street-Involved Youth in a Canadian Setting. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2017; 46:2165-2172. [PMID: 28643100 PMCID: PMC5548595 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-017-1002-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2016] [Revised: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Perceived devaluation has been shown to have adverse effects on the mental and physical health outcomes of people who use drugs. However, the impact of perceived devaluation on sexually transmitted infections (STI) testing uptake among street-involved youth, who face multiple and intersecting stigmas due to their association with drug use and risky sexual practices, has not been fully characterized. Data were obtained between December 2013 and November 2014 from a cohort of street-involved youth who use illicit drugs aged 14-26 in Vancouver, British Columbia. Multivariable generalized estimating equations were constructed to assess the independent relationship between perceived devaluation and STI testing uptake. Among 300 street-involved youth, 87.0% reported a high perceived devaluation score at baseline. In the multivariable analysis, high perceived devaluation was negatively associated with STI testing uptake after adjustment for potential confounders (Adjusted Odds Ratio = 0.38, 95% Confidence Interval 0.15-0.98). Perceived devaluation was high among street-involved youth in our sample and appears to have adverse effects on STI testing uptake. HIV prevention and care programs should be examined and improved to better meet the special needs of street-involved youth in non-stigmatizing ways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Karamouzian
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616911320, Iran
| | - Jean Shoveller
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Huiru Dong
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Mark Gilbert
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
- Clinical Prevention Services, BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Thomas Kerr
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Kora DeBeck
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada.
- School of Public Policy, Simon Fraser University, Suite 3271 - 515 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC, V6B 5K3, Canada.
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46
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Fiellin LE, Hieftje KD, Pendergrass TM, Kyriakides TC, Duncan LR, Dziura JD, Sawyer BG, Mayes L, Crusto CA, Forsyth BW, Fiellin DA. Video Game Intervention for Sexual Risk Reduction in Minority Adolescents: Randomized Controlled Trial. J Med Internet Res 2017; 19:e314. [PMID: 28923788 PMCID: PMC5625130 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.8148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2017] [Revised: 08/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disproportionately impacts minority youth. Interventions to decrease HIV sexual risk are needed. Objective We hypothesized that an engaging theory-based digital health intervention in the form of an interactive video game would improve sexual health outcomes in adolescents. Methods Participants aged 11 to 14 years from 12 community afterschool, school, and summer programs were randomized 1:1 to play up to 16 hours of an experimental video game or control video games over 6 weeks. Assessments were conducted at 6 weeks and at 3, 6, and 12 months. Primary outcome was delay of initiation of vaginal/anal intercourse. Secondary outcomes included sexual health attitudes, knowledge, and intentions. We examined outcomes by gender and age. Results A total of 333 participants were randomized to play the intervention (n=166) or control games (n=167): 295 (88.6%) were racial/ethnic minorities, 177 (53.2%) were boys, and the mean age was 12.9 (1.1) years. At 12 months, for the 258 (84.6%) participants with available data, 94.6% (122/129) in the intervention group versus 95.4% (123/129) in the control group delayed initiation of intercourse (relative risk=0.99, 95% CI 0.94-1.05, P=.77). Over 12 months, the intervention group demonstrated improved sexual health attitudes overall compared to the control group (least squares means [LS means] difference 0.37, 95% CI 0.01-0.72, P=.04). This improvement was observed in boys (LS means difference 0.67, P=.008), but not girls (LS means difference 0.06, P=.81), and in younger (LS means difference 0.71, P=.005), but not older participants (LS means difference 0.03, P=.92). The intervention group also demonstrated increased sexual health knowledge overall (LS means difference 1.13, 95% CI 0.64-1.61, P<.001), in girls (LS means difference 1.16, P=.001), boys (LS means difference 1.10, P=.001), younger (LS means difference 1.18, P=.001), and older (LS means difference=1.08, P=.002) participants. There were no differences in intentions to delay the initiation of intercourse between the two groups (LS means difference 0.10, P=.56). Conclusions An interactive video game intervention improves sexual health attitudes and knowledge in minority adolescents for at least 12 months. Trial Registration Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01666496; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01666496 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6syumc9C0).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn E Fiellin
- play2PREVENT Lab, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.,Yale Child Study Center, New Haven, CT, United States.,Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.,Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Kimberly D Hieftje
- play2PREVENT Lab, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.,Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.,Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Tyra M Pendergrass
- play2PREVENT Lab, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.,Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.,Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | | | - Lindsay R Duncan
- play2PREVENT Lab, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.,McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - James D Dziura
- Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Benjamin G Sawyer
- play2PREVENT Lab, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.,Digitalmill, Freeport, ME, United States
| | - Linda Mayes
- Yale Child Study Center, New Haven, CT, United States.,Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Cindy A Crusto
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.,Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.,University of Pretoria, Department of Psychology, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Brian Wc Forsyth
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.,Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - David A Fiellin
- play2PREVENT Lab, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.,Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.,Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.,Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
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47
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Alkhaldi G, Modrow K, Hamilton F, Pal K, Ross J, Murray E. Promoting Engagement With a Digital Health Intervention (HeLP-Diabetes) Using Email and Text Message Prompts: Mixed-Methods Study. Interact J Med Res 2017; 6:e14. [PMID: 28829328 PMCID: PMC5566257 DOI: 10.2196/ijmr.6952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2016] [Revised: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Engagement with digital health interventions (DHIs) may be regarded as a prerequisite for the intervention to achieve positive health or behavior change outcomes. One method employed to promote engagement is the use of prompts such as emails and text messages. However, little is known about the characteristics of prompts that promote engagement. This study explored the association between the content and delivery mode of prompts and the users’ engagement with HeLP-Diabetes (Healthy Living for People with type 2 Diabetes), a DHI that aimed to promote self-management in adults with type 2 diabetes. Objective The objective of this study was to identify the characteristics of prompts, specifically the content and delivery mode, which were associated with increased engagement. Methods This was a mixed-methods study. Email and text message prompts were sent to the registered users of HeLP-Diabetes. Use of the intervention was recorded and examined to identify which email and text message prompts were associated with subsequent visits to the DHI. Characteristics of prompts that were identified as particularly effective or ineffective were explored through think-aloud interviews with the participants. Results Of a total of 39 email prompts, 49% (19/39) prompts showed a significant association with subsequent visits to the DHI. However, none of the text message prompts were associated with subsequent visits to the DHI. Furthermore, think-aloud interviews were carried out with 6 experienced participants with type 2 diabetes. The findings suggest that these participants preferred email prompts that were clear, relatively short, and empowering; used nondirective advice; included health professional references; were visually appealing; and contained news and updates. Conclusions The findings of this study contribute to the existing evidence supporting the role of email prompts in promoting and maintaining engagement with DHIs. This study described the content of prompts that may be engaging. However, the results should be interpreted with caution, as prompts may be context-specific interventions and the results may not be generalizable across other DHIs or other types of interventions targeting self-management of type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghadah Alkhaldi
- Community Health Sciences Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kerstin Modrow
- eHealth Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fiona Hamilton
- eHealth Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kingshuk Pal
- eHealth Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jamie Ross
- eHealth Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth Murray
- eHealth Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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48
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Hamilton FL, Hornby J, Sheringham J, Linke S, Ashton C, Moore K, Stevenson F, Murray E. DIAMOND (DIgital Alcohol Management ON Demand): a mixed methods feasibility RCT and embedded process evaluation of a digital health intervention to reduce hazardous and harmful alcohol use. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2017; 3:34. [PMID: 28879021 PMCID: PMC5583751 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-017-0177-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Alcohol is a major risk factor for preventable illness, with huge cost to healthcare economies. There is a role for alcohol-specific digital health interventions (DHI), but there have been few randomised controlled trials (RCT) comparing DHI with face-to-face treatment. Such trials are complex and face obstacles in recruitment and retention. Methods Mixed-methods feasibility RCT of an alcohol DHI, testing recruitment, online data-collection and randomisation processes, with an embedded process evaluation. Recruitment ran from October 2014 for 9 months. Participants were adults drinking at hazardous and harmful levels, attending four community drug and alcohol services (CDAS) in London. Participants completed baseline demographic, alcohol-related and other psychological questionnaires online and were randomised to HeLP-Alcohol, a six-module DHI with weekly reminder prompts (phone, email or text message), which mirrors face-to-face treatment, or to face-to-face treatment at CDAS. Alcohol counsellors took part in qualitative interviews at the end of the study. Results Alcohol counsellors screened 1253 patients. One thousand one hundred eighty-nine did not meet inclusion criteria so were excluded: 579 were dependent drinkers, 548 had health conditions that made them ineligible to take part and 62 were ineligible for other reasons including homelessness. Of the 64 patients who were eligible to take part, 54 declined to participate, with 36 stating a preference for face-to-face treatment, 13 gave no reason, and 5 gave other reasons including not wanting to use a computer. Ten consented but then 3 changed their minds, so we were able to randomise 7 participants to the study (11% of eligible). Five alcohol counsellors agreed to be interviewed for the process evaluation and provided the following feedback: Although most of their colleagues were enthusiastic about the trial, some were not at equipoise in recruiting; potential participants also declared strong preference to intervention arm from the outset. These factors affected recruitment. Counsellors also lacked time to undertake the data inputting and follow-up of participants in addition to their everyday work. Conclusions This feasibility study aimed to test recruitment, randomisation, retention and data collection methods but recruited only 7 participants so these aims were not fully achieved. This illustrates to all researchers of complex interventions the importance of conducting feasibility studies and is generalisable to areas other than alcohol research. CDAS were seeing larger numbers of non-dependent drinkers with complex additional problems than alcohol commissioners expected. CDAS clients and some counsellors were not at equipoise for recruitment. Alternative settings for recruitment need to be explored in future trials. Trial registration International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number: ISRCTN31789096, DOI 10.1186/ISRCTN31789096
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona L Hamilton
- eHealth Unit, Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, Upper 3rd Floor, Royal Free Campus, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF UK
| | - Jo Hornby
- eHealth Unit, Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, Upper 3rd Floor, Royal Free Campus, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF UK
| | | | - Stuart Linke
- Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Kevin Moore
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, UCL, London, UK
| | - Fiona Stevenson
- eHealth Unit, Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, Upper 3rd Floor, Royal Free Campus, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF UK
| | - Elizabeth Murray
- eHealth Unit, Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, Upper 3rd Floor, Royal Free Campus, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF UK
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49
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Sun WH, Wong CKH, Wong WCW. A Peer-Led, Social Media-Delivered, Safer Sex Intervention for Chinese College Students: Randomized Controlled Trial. J Med Internet Res 2017; 19:e284. [PMID: 28793980 PMCID: PMC5569248 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.7403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Revised: 05/18/2017] [Accepted: 06/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The peer-led, social media-delivered intervention is an emerging method in sexual health promotion. However, no research has yet investigated its effectiveness as compared with other online channels or in an Asian population. Objective The objective of this study is to compare a peer-led, social media-delivered, safer sex intervention with a sexual health website. Both conditions target Chinese college students in Hong Kong. Methods A randomized controlled trial was conducted with a peer-led, safer sex Facebook group as the intervention and an existing online sexual health website as the control. The intervention materials were developed with peer input and followed the information-motivation-behavioral skills model; the intervention was moderated by peer educators. The participants filled out the online questionnaires before and after the 6-week intervention period. Outcome evaluations included safer sex attitudes, behavioral skills, and behaviors, while process evaluation focused on online experience, online-visiting frequency, and online engagement. The effect of online-visiting frequency and online engagement on outcome variables was investigated. Results Of 196 eligible participants—100 in the control group and 96 in the intervention group—who joined the study, 2 (1.0%) control participants joined the Facebook group and 24 of the remaining 194 participants (12.4%) were lost to follow-up. For the process evaluation, participants in the intervention group reported more satisfying online experiences (P<.001) and a higher level of online-visiting frequency (P<.001). They also had more positive comments when compared with the control group. For outcome evaluation, within-group analysis showed significant improvement in condom use attitude (P=.02) and behavioral skills (P<.001) in the intervention group, but not in the control group. No significant between-group difference was found. After adjusting for demographic data, increased online-visiting frequency was associated with better contraceptive use behavioral intention (P=.05), better behavioral skills (P=.02), and more frequent condom use (P=.04). Conclusions A peer-led, social media-delivered, safer sex intervention was found to be feasible and effective in improving attitudes toward condom use and behavioral skills, but was not significantly more effective than a website. Future research may focus on the long-term effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of this popular method, as well as the potential cultural differences of using social media between different countries. Trial Registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR): ChiCTR-IOR-16009495; http://www.chictr.org.cn/showprojen.aspx?proj=16234 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6s0Fc2L9T)
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai Han Sun
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, The University of Hong Kong, Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
| | - Carlos King Ho Wong
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, The University of Hong Kong, Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
| | - William Chi Wai Wong
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, The University of Hong Kong, Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
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50
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Li H, Xue L, Tucker JD, Wei C, Durvasula M, Hu W, Kang D, Liao M, Tang W, Ma W. Condom use peer norms and self-efficacy as mediators between community engagement and condom use among Chinese men who have sex with men. BMC Public Health 2017; 17:641. [PMID: 28784172 PMCID: PMC5545844 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-017-4662-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Community engagement strategies are often integrated in public health interventions designed to promote condom use among men who have sex with men (MSM), a key population for HIV prevention. However, the ways in which condom use peer norms and self-efficacy play a role in the association between community engagement and condom use is unclear. This study examines the potential mediating roles of peer norms and self-efficacy in this association. Methods A nationwide cross-sectional online survey was conducted among Chinese MSM in 2015. Recruitment criteria included being born biologically male, being older than 16 years, having had anal sex with a man at least once during their lifetime, and having had condomless anal or vaginal sex in the past three months. Mplus 6.11 was used to conduct confirmatory factor analysis and path modeling analysis to examine the structural relationships between HIV/sexual health community engagement (e.g., joining social media and community events related to HIV and sexual health services), condom use peer norms, condom use self-efficacy, and frequency of condom use. Results The study found that HIV/sexual health community engagement, condom use peer norms, condom use self-efficacy, and frequency of condom use were mutually correlated. A good data model was achieved with fit index: CFI = 0.988, TLI = 0.987, RMSEA = 0.032, 90% CI (0.028, 0.036). HIV/sexual health community engagement was associated with frequency of condom use, which was directly mediated by condom use peer norms and indirectly through self-efficacy. Conclusion The study suggests that condom use peer norms and self-efficacy may be mediators in the pathway between community engagement and condom use, and suggests the importance of peer-based interventions to improve condom use. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12889-017-4662-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haochu Li
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road Shandong Province, Jinan, 250012, China. .,UNC Project-China, Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA. .,SESH Global, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Li Xue
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road Shandong Province, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- UNC Project-China, Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,SESH Global, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chongyi Wei
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Maya Durvasula
- Department of Economics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Wenqi Hu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road Shandong Province, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Dianming Kang
- Shandong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan, China
| | - Meizhen Liao
- Shandong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan, China
| | - Weiming Tang
- UNC Project-China, Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,SESH Global, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Center for Skin Diseases and STI Control, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Ma
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shandong University, 44 West Wenhua Road Shandong Province, Jinan, 250012, China.
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