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Pongutta S, Tangcharoensathien V, Leung K, Larson HJ, Lin L. Social Vulnerability and Compliance With World Health Organization Advice on Protective Behaviors Against COVID-19 in African and Asia Pacific Countries: Factor Analysis to Develop a Social Vulnerability Index. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2024; 10:e54383. [PMID: 39137034 DOI: 10.2196/54383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 protective behaviors are key interventions advised by the World Health Organization (WHO) to prevent COVID-19 transmission. However, achieving compliance with this advice is often challenging, particularly among socially vulnerable groups. OBJECTIVE We developed a social vulnerability index (SVI) to predict individuals' propensity to adhere to the WHO advice on protective behaviors against COVID-19 and identify changes in social vulnerability as Omicron evolved in African countries between January 2022 and August 2022 and Asia Pacific countries between August 2021 and June 2022. METHODS In African countries, baseline data were collected from 14 countries (n=15,375) during the first Omicron wave, and follow-up data were collected from 7 countries (n=7179) after the wave. In Asia Pacific countries, baseline data were collected from 14 countries (n=12,866) before the first Omicron wave, and follow-up data were collected from 9 countries (n=8737) after the wave. Countries' socioeconomic and health profiles were retrieved from relevant databases. To construct the SVI for each of the 4 data sets, variables associated with COVID-19 protective behaviors were included in a factor analysis using polychoric correlation with varimax rotation. Influential factors were adjusted for cardinality, summed, and min-max normalized from 0 to 1 (most to least vulnerable). Scores for compliance with the WHO advice were calculated using individuals' self-reported protective behaviors against COVID-19. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to assess the associations between the SVI and scores for compliance to WHO advice to validate the index. RESULTS In Africa, factors contributing to social vulnerability included literacy and media use, trust in health care workers and government, and country income and infrastructure. In Asia Pacific, social vulnerability was determined by literacy, country income and infrastructure, and population density. The index was associated with compliance with the WHO advice in both time points in African countries but only during the follow-up period in Asia Pacific countries. At baseline, the index values in African countries ranged from 0.00 to 0.31 in 13 countries, with 1 country having an index value of 1.00. The index values in Asia Pacific countries ranged from 0.00 to 0.23 in 12 countries, with 2 countries having index values of 0.79 and 1.00. During the follow-up phase, the index values decreased in 6 of 7 African countries and the 2 most vulnerable Asia Pacific countries. The index values of the least vulnerable countries remained unchanged in both regions. CONCLUSIONS In both regions, significant inequalities in social vulnerability to compliance with WHO advice were observed at baseline, and the gaps became larger after the first Omicron wave. Understanding the dimensions that influence social vulnerability to protective behaviors against COVID-19 may underpin targeted interventions to enhance compliance with WHO recommendations and mitigate the impact of future pandemics among vulnerable groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suladda Pongutta
- International Health Policy Program, Ministry of Public Health, Muang, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | | | - Kathy Leung
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Control, School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health Limited (D24H), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
- The University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Heidi J Larson
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for the Evaluation of Vaccination, Vaccine & Infectious Disease Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Health Metrics Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Leesa Lin
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Control, School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health Limited (D24H), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Fruleux A, Gaudart J, Franke F, Nauleau S, Dutrey Kaiser A, Legendre E, Balma D, Lescaudron M, Tamalet L, Malfait P, Chaud P, Rebaudet S. Reviving health mediation during the COVID-19 crisis and beyond: an implementation study in deprived neighbourhoods of Marseille, France. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1313575. [PMID: 39022414 PMCID: PMC11251881 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1313575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction In 2020, during France's COVID-19 response, healthcare professionals from a hospital and an association initiated health mediation interventions in Marseille's vulnerable neighbourhoods, funded by the regional health authorities. This mixed method research evaluates the CORHESAN program that lasted until June 2022. Methods We examined CORHESAN documents and reports, conducted interviews, and analysed activity data, comparing it to the COVID-19 hotspots identified on a weekly basis at the neighbourhood level, using generalised linear mixed models (GLMMs). Results CORHESAN was implemented by a team of up to nine health mediators, six private nurses hired on an ad hoc basis, supervised by a general coordinator and two part-time medical and nursing coordinators. Multiple partnerships were established with shelters, associations, social-housing landlords and local institutions. The team accompanied 6,253 people affected by COVID-19 or contact in the practical implementation of their isolation and contact tracing. Of the 5,180 nasopharyngeal samples for RT-PCR and 1,875 for antigenic testing: 12% were taken at home and 27% in partner facilities in the targeted neighbourhoods; 32% were taken from symptomatic patients and 30% in the context of contact tracing; and 40% were positive. Multiple awareness sessions on prevention methods and distributions of personal protection kits and self-diagnostic tests were conducted in the streets, in shelters, in associations or at home. A total of 5,929 doses of COVID-19 vaccine were administered in a walk-in vaccination centre, at temporary street vaccination posts, during operations at partner facilities, or during home-visits to patients with limited autonomy. GLMMs showed that the intervention significantly targeted its testing interventions in neighbourhoods with socioeconomic disadvantage and/or past under-testing (adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 2.75 [1.50-5.00]) and those with high hotspot level (aOR for level-3 versus level-0, 1.83 [1.24-2.71]). Discussion The pandemic emphasised the potential of health mediation interventions to address health disparities. Building on this, a new program began in July 2022, aiming at enhancing cancer screening and vaccinations in deprived areas of Marseille. Evaluations are ongoing to assess its activities and impact, and provide evidence to future implementation initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alix Fruleux
- Ville de Marseille, Direction de la Santé publique et de l'Inclusion, Marseille, France
| | - Jean Gaudart
- Aix-Marseille Université, Inserm, IRD, UMR1252 SESSTIM, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
- Santé publique France, Saint-Maurice, France
| | | | - Steve Nauleau
- Agence régionale de santé Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur (ARS Paca), Marseille, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Stanislas Rebaudet
- Aix-Marseille Université, Inserm, IRD, UMR1252 SESSTIM, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
- Hôpital Européen, Marseille, France
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Kuandyk (Sabitova) A, Ortega MA, Ntegwa MJ, Sarria-Santamera A. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on access to and delivery of maternal and child healthcare services in low-and middle-income countries: a systematic review of the literature. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1346268. [PMID: 38655525 PMCID: PMC11036866 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1346268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has had a multifaceted impact on maternal and child services and adversely influenced pregnancy outcomes. This systematic review aims to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on access to and delivery of maternal and child healthcare services in low- and middle-income countries. Methods The review was reported following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. A primary search of electronic databases was performed using a combination of search terms related to the following areas of interest: "impact' AND 'COVID-19' AND 'maternal and child health services' AND 'low- and middle-income countries. A narrative synthesis approach was used to analyse and integrate the results. Results Overall, 45 unique studies conducted across 28 low- and middle-income countries met the inclusion criteria for the review. The findings suggest the number of family planning visits, antenatal and postnatal care visits, consultations for sick children, paediatric emergency visits and child immunisation levels decreased compared to the pre-pandemic levels in the majority of included studies. An analytical framework including four main categories was developed based on the concepts that emerged from included studies: the anxiety of not knowing (1), overwhelmed healthcare systems (2), challenges perceived by healthcare professionals (3) and difficulties perceived by service users (4). Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted family planning services, antenatal and postnatal care coverage, and emergency and routine child services. Generalised conclusions are tentative due to the heterogeneity and inconsistent quality of the included studies. Future research is recommended to define the pandemic's impact on women and children worldwide and prepare healthcare systems for future resurgences of COVID-19 and potential challenges beyond. Systematic review registration PROSPERO (CRD42021285178).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Kuandyk (Sabitova)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Miguel-Angel Ortega
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | | | - Antonio Sarria-Santamera
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan
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Stogiannos N, Pavlopoulou G, Papadopoulos C, Walsh G, Potts B, Moqbel S, Gkaravella A, McNulty J, Simcock C, Gaigg S, Bowler D, Marais K, Cleaver K, Lloyd JH, Dos Reis CS, Malamateniou C. Strategies to improve the magnetic resonance imaging experience for autistic individuals: a cross-sectional study exploring parents and carers' experiences. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:1375. [PMID: 38062422 PMCID: PMC10704820 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-10333-w] [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: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autistic individuals encounter numerous barriers in accessing healthcare, including communication difficulties, sensory sensitivities, and a lack of appropriate adjustments. These issues are particularly acute during MRI scans, which involve confined spaces, loud noises, and the necessity to remain still. There remains no unified approach to preparing autistic individuals for MRI procedures. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with parents and carers of autistic individuals in the UK to explore their experiences, barriers, and recommendations concerning MRI scans. The survey collected demographic information and experiential accounts of previous MRI procedures. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, while key themes were identified within the qualitative data through inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS Sixteen parents/carers participated. The majority reported difficulties with communication, inadequate pre-scan preparation, and insufficient adjustments during MRI scans for their autistic children. Key barriers included an overwhelming sensory environment, radiographers' limited understanding of autism, and anxiety stemming from uncertainties about the procedure. Recommended improvements encompassed accessible communication, pre-visit familiarisation, noise-reduction and sensory adaptations, staff training on autism, and greater flexibility to meet individual needs. CONCLUSIONS There is an urgent need to enhance MRI experiences for autistic individuals. This can be achieved through improved staff knowledge, effective communication strategies, thorough pre-scan preparation, and tailored reasonable adjustments. Co-producing clear MRI guidelines with the autism community could standardise sensitive practices. An individualised approach is crucial for reducing anxiety and facilitating participation. Empowering radiographers through autism-specific education and incorporating insights from autistic individuals and their families could transform MRI experiences and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Stogiannos
- Department of Midwifery & Radiography, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
- Medical Imaging Department, Corfu General Hospital, Corfu, Greece
| | - Georgia Pavlopoulou
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, University College London, Institute of Education Group for Research in Relationships in NeuroDiversity-GRRAND, London, UK
- Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families, London, UK
| | - Chris Papadopoulos
- Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, Putteridge Bury Campus, Luton, UK.
| | - Gemma Walsh
- Department of Midwifery & Radiography, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
| | - Ben Potts
- Department of Midwifery & Radiography, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
- Southampton General Hospital, University Hospitals Southampton Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Sarah Moqbel
- Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families, London, UK
| | | | - Jonathan McNulty
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Clare Simcock
- Institute of Child Health, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sebastian Gaigg
- Department of Psychology, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
| | - Dermot Bowler
- Department of Psychology, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
| | - Keith Marais
- Community Involvement, University of London, London, UK
| | - Karen Cleaver
- Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences, University of Greenwich, London, UK
| | - Jane Harvey Lloyd
- Department of Specialist Science Education, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Cláudia Sá Dos Reis
- School of Health Sciences (HESAV), University of Applied Sciences Western Switzerland (HES- SO), Lausanne, CH, Switzerland
| | - Christina Malamateniou
- Department of Midwifery & Radiography, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
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Morisod K, Martin T, Rawlinson C, Grazioli VS, von Plessen C, Durand MA, Selby K, Le Pogam MA, Bühler N, Bodenmann P. Facing the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed-Method Analysis of Asylum Seekers' Experiences and Worries in the Canton of Vaud, Switzerland. Int J Public Health 2023; 68:1606229. [PMID: 37829084 PMCID: PMC10564980 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2023.1606229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: The clinical and social burden of the COVID-19 pandemic were high among asylum seekers (ASs). We aimed to understand better ASs' experiences of the pandemic and their sources of worries. Methods: Participants (n = 203) completed a survey about their worries, sleep disorders, and fear of dying. We also conducted semi-structured interviews with ASs living in a community center (n = 15), focusing on how social and living conditions affected their experiences and worries. Results: ASs in community centers experienced more sleep disorders related to the COVID-19 pandemic than those living in private apartments (aOR 2.01, p = 0.045). Similarly, those with lower education had greater fear for their life due to the COVID-19 pandemic (aOR 2.31, p = 0.015). Qualitative findings showed that sharing living spaces was an important source of worries for ASs and that protective measures were perceived to increase social isolation. Conclusion: Our study highlighted the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic for ASs and the importance of tailoring public health measures to their needs and living conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Morisod
- Department of Vulnerabilities and Social Medicine, University Center of General Medicine and Public Health, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Chair of Medicine for Vulnerable Populations, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Tiffany Martin
- Department of Vulnerabilities and Social Medicine, University Center of General Medicine and Public Health, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Systems, Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Cloé Rawlinson
- Department of Vulnerabilities and Social Medicine, University Center of General Medicine and Public Health, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Systems, Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Véronique S. Grazioli
- Department of Vulnerabilities and Social Medicine, University Center of General Medicine and Public Health, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Chair of Medicine for Vulnerable Populations, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Christian von Plessen
- Department of Ambulatory Care, Center for Primary Care and Public Health, University Center of General Medicine and Public Health, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Direction Générale de la Santé (DGS), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Marie-Anne Durand
- UMR1295 Centre d’Epidémiologie et de Recherche en Santé des Populations (CERPOP), Toulouse, France
- University Center of General Medicine and Public Health, Lausanne, Switzerland
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Kevin Selby
- Department of Ambulatory Care, Center for Primary Care and Public Health, University Center of General Medicine and Public Health, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marie-Annick Le Pogam
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Systems, Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nolwenn Bühler
- Department of Vulnerabilities and Social Medicine, University Center of General Medicine and Public Health, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Systems, Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Institute of Social Sciences, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Bodenmann
- Department of Vulnerabilities and Social Medicine, University Center of General Medicine and Public Health, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Chair of Medicine for Vulnerable Populations, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Ogbonna O, Bull F, Spinks B, Williams D, Lewis R, Edwards A. The Impact of Being Homeless on the Clinical Outcomes of COVID-19: Systematic Review. Int J Public Health 2023; 68:1605893. [PMID: 37780134 PMCID: PMC10540688 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2023.1605893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: The homeless population experiences inequality in health compared with the general population, which may have widened during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the impact of being homeless on the outcomes of COVID-19 is uncertain. This systematic review aimed to analyse the impact of experiencing homelessness on the clinical outcomes of COVID-19, including the effects on health inequalities. Methods: A review protocol was developed and registered in PROSPERO (PROSPERO registration 2022 CRD42022304941). Nine databases were searched in November 2022 to identify studies on homeless populations which contained primary research on the following outcomes of COVID-19: incidence, hospitalisation, mortality, long COVID, mental wellbeing, and evidence of inequalities. Included studies were summarised with narrative synthesis. Results: The searches yielded 8,233 initial hits; after screening, 41 studies were included. Overall, evidence showed that those in crowded living settings had a higher risk of COVID-19 infection compared to rough sleepers and the general population. The homeless population had higher rates of hospitalisation and mortality than the general population, lower vaccination rates, and suffered negative mental health impacts. Conclusion: This systematic review shows the homeless population is more susceptible to COVID-19 outcomes. Further research is needed to determine the actual impact of the pandemic on this population, and of interventions to mitigate overall risk, given the low certainty of findings from some of the low-quality evidence available. In addition, further research is required to ascertain the impact of long COVID on those experiencing homelessness, since the present review yielded no studies on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Obianuju Ogbonna
- Health and Care Research Wales Evidence Centre, Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Francesca Bull
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Bethany Spinks
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Denitza Williams
- Health and Care Research Wales Evidence Centre, Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Lewis
- North Wales Centre for Primary Care Research, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian Edwards
- Health and Care Research Wales Evidence Centre, Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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Shelest-Szumilas O, Wozniak M. The Fears and Hopes of Ukrainian Migrant Workers in Poland in the Pandemic Era. JOURNAL OF INTERNATIONAL MIGRATION AND INTEGRATION 2023:1-23. [PMID: 37360639 PMCID: PMC10209937 DOI: 10.1007/s12134-023-01051-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many immigrants found themselves in extremely unstable situations. The recent contributions show that employment decline in the first several months of the lockdown was higher for migrant workers than for natives. At the same time, migrants were less likely to find new employment in the recovery months. Such circumstances may result in an increased level of anxiety about one's economic situation. On the other hand, an unfavorable environment may induce resources that could help to overcome it. The paper aims to reveal migrants' concerns together with ambitions connected with the economic activity during the pandemic. The study is based on 30 individual in-depth interviews with Ukrainian migrant workers from Poland. The research approach was based on Natural Language Processing techniques. We employed sentiment analysis algorithms, and on a basis of selected lexicons, we extracted fears and hopes that appear in migrants' narrations. We also identified major topics and associated them with specific sentiments. Pandemic induced several matters connected with e.g., the stability of employment, discrimination, relationships, family, and financial situation. These affairs are usually connected on the basis of a cause-and-effect relationship. In addition, while several topics were common for both male and female participants, some of them were specific for each group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olena Shelest-Szumilas
- Department of Education and Personnel Development, Poznan University of Economics and Business, Poznan, Poland
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8
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Saikat S, Selbie D, McDarby G, Mustafa S, Petrova M, Seifeldin R, Zhang Y, Jakab Z. Editorial: Health systems recovery in the context of COVID-19 and protracted conflict. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1205286. [PMID: 37293611 PMCID: PMC10246765 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1205286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Duncan Selbie
- International Association of National Public Health Institutes, Paris, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Yu Zhang
- World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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De Jesus M, Warnock B, Moumni Z, Sougui ZH, Pourtau L. The impact of social capital and social environmental factors on mental health and flourishing: the experiences of asylum-seekers in France. Confl Health 2023; 17:18. [PMID: 37029423 PMCID: PMC10081295 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-023-00517-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing interest on how social capital and related social environmental factors impact overall population health and well-being. The nature of asylum-seekers' social environment alters once they migrate to a new context and these changes influence their mental health and well-being. However, there is limited scholarship on how these social environmental factors impact the mental health, well-being, and capacity to flourish of asylum-seekers. METHODS The aim of the study, therefore, was to examine how specific social environmental factors-social networks, social support, and social cohesion at various levels (micro, meso, and macro)-influence the mental health, well-being, and capacity to flourish of asylum-seekers in France. In collaboration with a community-based organization, we used a qualitative research design to conduct 120 semi-structured interviews with asylum-seekers in France. RESULTS The emerging salient themes depicted how the asylum-seekers' usual informal social networks comprised of family and friends had been disrupted since they migrated to France, which impacted their mental health and well-being. Conversely, staying connected with their informal transnational social networks via social media and developing ties with new local informal and formal social networks allowed them to receive different forms of social support, and buffered some of the negative mental health consequences. However, the lack of social cohesion due to a lack of belonging, marginalization, and current harmful migration-related policies impeded asylum-seekers' capacity to flourish. CONCLUSION While social support derived from social networks buffered some negative impacts on mental health and well-being, the overall lack of social cohesion ultimately impeded asylum-seekers' capacity to flourish within their host communities, which was further exacerbated by harmful migration policies of exclusion within France. Introducing more inclusive policies related to the governance of migration and an intersectoral approach that views health in all policies is key to promoting social cohesion and flourishing among asylum-seekers in France.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria De Jesus
- Collegium de Lyon, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France.
- School of International Service, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave, NW, Washington, DC, 20016, USA.
- Center on Health, Risk, and Society, American University, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Bronwyn Warnock
- School of International Service, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave, NW, Washington, DC, 20016, USA
| | - Zoubida Moumni
- Psychologie de la Santé, Université Lumière Lyon 2, 69365, Lyon, France
| | - Zara Hassan Sougui
- Santé Publique, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 69100, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Lionel Pourtau
- Pôle Recherche et Innovation, Habitat et Humanisme, 69300, Caluire et Cuire, France
- LEIRIS, Université Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, 34090, Montpellier, France
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10
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Jarvis GE, Kirmayer LJ. Global migration: Moral, political and mental health challenges. Transcult Psychiatry 2023; 60:5-12. [PMID: 36919356 DOI: 10.1177/13634615231162282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Global migration is expected to continue to increase as climate change, conflict and economic disparities continue to challenge peoples' lives. The political response to migration is a social determinant of mental health. Despite the potential benefits of migration, many migrants and refugees face significant challenges after they resettle. The papers collected in this thematic issue of Transcultural Psychiatry explore the experience of migration and highlight some of the challenges that governments and healthcare services need to address to facilitate the social integration and mental health of migrants. Clinicians need training and resources to work effectively with migrants, focusing on their resilience and on long-term adaptive processes. Efforts to counter the systemic discrimination and structural violence that migrants often face need to be broad-based, unified, and persistent to make meaningful change. When migrants are free to realize their talents and aspirations, they can help build local communities and societies that value diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Eric Jarvis
- Division of Social & Transcultural Psychiatry, McGill University.,Culture and Mental Health Research Unit, Institute for Community & Family Psychiatry. Jewish General Hospital, Montreal
| | - Laurence J Kirmayer
- Division of Social & Transcultural Psychiatry, McGill University.,Culture and Mental Health Research Unit, Institute for Community & Family Psychiatry. Jewish General Hospital, Montreal
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Li L, Taeihagh A, Tan SY. A scoping review of the impacts of COVID-19 physical distancing measures on vulnerable population groups. Nat Commun 2023; 14:599. [PMID: 36737447 PMCID: PMC9897623 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36267-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Most governments have enacted physical or social distancing measures to control COVID-19 transmission. Yet little is known about the socio-economic trade-offs of these measures, especially for vulnerable populations, who are exposed to increased risks and are susceptible to adverse health outcomes. To examine the impacts of physical distancing measures on the most vulnerable in society, this scoping review screened 39,816 records and synthesised results from 265 studies worldwide documenting the negative impacts of physical distancing on older people, children/students, low-income populations, migrant workers, people in prison, people with disabilities, sex workers, victims of domestic violence, refugees, ethnic minorities, and people from sexual and gender minorities. We show that prolonged loneliness, mental distress, unemployment, income loss, food insecurity, widened inequality and disruption of access to social support and health services were unintended consequences of physical distancing that impacted these vulnerable groups and highlight that physical distancing measures exacerbated the vulnerabilities of different vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Li
- Policy Systems Group, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Araz Taeihagh
- Policy Systems Group, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Si Ying Tan
- Alexandra Research Centre for Healthcare in The Virtual Environment (ARCHIVE), Department of Healthcare Redesign, Alexandra Hospital, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
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Samutachak B, Ford K, Tangcharoensathien V, Satararuji K. Role of social capital in response to and recovery from the first wave of COVID-19 in Thailand: a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e061647. [PMID: 36669841 PMCID: PMC9871865 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-061647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study assesses the role of social capital among people and communities in response to the first wave of the pandemic in 2020. DESIGN Qualitative study using focus group discussions. SETTING Capital city (Bangkok) and the four regions (north, northeast, south and central) of Thailand. PARTICIPANTS 161 participants of 19 focus groups with diverse backgrounds in terms of gender, profession, education and geography (urban/rural; regions). They are selected for different levels of impact from the pandemic. FINDINGS The solidarity among the Thai people was a key contributing factor to societal resilience during the pandemic. Findings illustrate how three levels of social capital structure-family, community and local networks-mobilised resources from internal and external social networks to support people affected by the pandemic. The results also highlight different types of resources mobilised from the three levels of social capital, factors that affect resilience, collective action to combat the negative impacts of the pandemic, and the roles of social media and gender. CONCLUSION Social capital plays significant roles in the resilience of individuals, households and communities to respond to and recover from the impacts of the pandemic. In many instances, social capital is a faster and more efficient response than other kinds of formal support. Social capital can be enhanced by interactions and exchanges in the communities. While face-to-face social contacts are challenged by the need for social distancing and travel restrictions, social media steps in as alternative socialisation to enhance social capital.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhubate Samutachak
- Institute for Population and Social Research, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Kathleen Ford
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Kullatip Satararuji
- Graduate School of Communication Arts and Management Innovation, National Institute of Development Administration, Bangkok, Thailand
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Arvin M, Bazrafkan S, Beiki P, Sharifi A. A county-level analysis of association between social vulnerability and COVID-19 cases in Khuzestan Province, Iran. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DISASTER RISK REDUCTION : IJDRR 2023; 84:103495. [PMID: 36532873 PMCID: PMC9747688 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdrr.2022.103495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Social vulnerability is related to the differential abilities of socio-economic groups to withstand and respond to the adverse impacts of hazards and stressors. COVID-19, as a human risk, is influenced by and contributes to social vulnerability. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between social vulnerability and the prevalence of COVID-19 infection in the counties of Khuzestan province, Iran. To determine the social vulnerability of the counties in the Khuzestan province, decision-making techniques and geographic information systems were employed. Also, the Pearson correlation was used to examine the relationship between the two variables. The findings indicate that Ahvaz county and the province's northeastern counties have the highest levels of social vulnerability. There was no significant link between the social vulnerability index of the counties and the rate of COVID-19 cases (per 1000 persons). We argue that all counties in the province should implement and pursue COVID-19 control programs and policies. This is particularly essential for counties with greater rates of social vulnerability and COVID-19 cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Arvin
- Department of Human Geography, Faculty of Geography, University of Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahram Bazrafkan
- Department of Human Geography and Spatial Planning, Faculty of Earth Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parisa Beiki
- Department of Geography, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ayyoob Sharifi
- Hiroshima University, ،The IDEC Institute, the Graduate School of Humanities and Social Science, and the Network for Education and Research on Peace and Sustainability (NERPS), Japan
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Morisod K, Durand MA, Selby K, Le Pogam MA, Grazioli VS, Sanchis Zozaya J, Bodenmann P, von Plessen C. Asylum Seekers' Responses to Government COVID-19 Recommendations: A Cross-sectional Survey in a Swiss Canton. J Immigr Minor Health 2022; 25:570-579. [PMID: 36508030 PMCID: PMC9743178 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-022-01436-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Asylum seekers face multiple language, cultural and administrative barriers that could result in the inappropriate implementation of COVID-19 measures. This study aimed to explore their knowledge and attitudes to recommendations about COVID-19. We conducted a cross-sectional survey among asylum seekers living in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland. We used logistic regressions to analyze associations between knowledge about health recommendations, the experience of the pandemic and belief to rumors, and participant sociodemographic characteristics. In total, 242 people participated in the survey, with 63% of men (n = 150) and a median age of 30 years old (IQR 23-40). Low knowledge was associated with linguistic barriers (aOR 0.36, 95% CI 0.14-0.94, p = 0.028) and living in a community center (aOR 0.43, 95% CI 0.22-0.85, p = 0.014). Rejected asylum seekers were more likely to believe COVID-19 rumors (aOR 2.81, 95% CI 1.24-6.36, p = 0.013). This survey underlines the importance of tailoring health recommendations and interventions to reach asylum seekers, particularly those living in community centers or facing language barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Morisod
- Department of Vulnerabilities and Social Medicine, Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Lausanne, Switzerland ,grid.9851.50000 0001 2165 4204Chair of Medicine for Vulnerable Populations, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marie-Anne Durand
- grid.15781.3a0000 0001 0723 035XCERPOP, Université de Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, Toulouse, France ,Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Kevin Selby
- Department Training, Research and Innovation, Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marie-Annick Le Pogam
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Systems, Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Véronique S. Grazioli
- Department of Vulnerabilities and Social Medicine, Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Lausanne, Switzerland ,grid.9851.50000 0001 2165 4204Chair of Medicine for Vulnerable Populations, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Javier Sanchis Zozaya
- grid.8515.90000 0001 0423 4662Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Bodenmann
- Department of Vulnerabilities and Social Medicine, Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Lausanne, Switzerland ,grid.9851.50000 0001 2165 4204Chair of Medicine for Vulnerable Populations, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Christian von Plessen
- Department of Ambulatory Care, Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), Lausanne, Switzerland ,Direction Générale de La Santé (DGS), Lausanne, Switzerland ,grid.10825.3e0000 0001 0728 0170Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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McCosker LK, Ware RS, Maujean A, Seale H, Downes MJ. Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and of government responses to the pandemic, on people who are homeless in Australia: Mapping perceptions of a national sample of homelessness service workers. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e6553-e6563. [PMID: 36373278 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.14103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
People who are homeless are disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and by government responses to the pandemic. This study maps the perceptions of homelessness service workers in Australia, about the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and government responses to it on people who are homeless. An electronic survey was distributed to homelessness service across Australia in June/July 2020, following Australia's 'first wave' of COVID-19. Fifty-nine homelessness services from all eight states/territories responded. Perceptions of impacts on people who are homeless were mapped in six themes: (1) changes in the types of people presenting, (2) overall impacts on peoples' lives, (3) impacts on mental health, (4) impacts of changes in service delivery, (5) impacts of government support and (6) ongoing impacts. The COVID-19 pandemic, and government responses to the pandemic, have affected every aspect of the lives of people who are homeless in Australia. There is a continuing need to support people who are homeless as the world transitions to the 'new normal' of COVID-19, particularly as rates of homelessness increase. Understanding impacts is vital to informing relevant and effective health, social and other supports for this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura K McCosker
- Centre for Applied Health Economics, School of Medicine & Dentistry, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robert S Ware
- Centre for Applied Health Economics, School of Medicine & Dentistry, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
| | - Annick Maujean
- Centre for Applied Health Economics, School of Medicine & Dentistry, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
| | - Holly Seale
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Martin J Downes
- Centre for Applied Health Economics, School of Medicine & Dentistry, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
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Munté-Pascual A, Redondo-Sama G, De Vicente I, Matulic V. You Are Not Alone: The (In)Visible Homeless and the Role of Social Workers and Related Professionals. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:10070. [PMID: 36011704 PMCID: PMC9408099 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191610070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The scientific literature has already shown that health information is a factor that contributes to reduce health disparities, improving the situation of vulnerable groups, such as homeless people. However, less is known about the ways that health information has been spread by social workers and related professionals to homeless people in the first moments of the COVID-19 pandemic. This work analyses some social work actions related to health information addressed to homeless people and to identify its impact during the lockdown in Barcelona. This qualitative study is based on semi-structured interviews with social workers and related professionals involved in developing interventions related to health information with homeless people in Barcelona. The data analysis is based on the communicative methodology to identify exclusionary and transformative dimensions. The results show the improvement in the health information of homeless people during the pandemic through the design and development of actions facilitated and promoted by some social workers and related professionals. The findings demonstrate the role that some social workers and related professionals have played in the improvement of health information of homeless people during the lockdown in Barcelona.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariadna Munté-Pascual
- Social Work Training and Research Section, Faculty of Education, University of Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Irene De Vicente
- Social Work Training and Research Section, Faculty of Education, University of Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Virginia Matulic
- Social Work Training and Research Section, Faculty of Education, University of Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
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De Jesus M, Moumni Z, Sougui ZH, Biswas N, Kubicz R, Pourtau L. "Living in Confinement, Stopped in Time": Migrant Social Vulnerability, Coping and Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown in France. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:10084. [PMID: 36011730 PMCID: PMC9408687 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191610084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed health and social inequities among migrant populations. Less empirical evidence exists about the impact of COVID-19 lockdown measures on migrants. This study aimed to investigate the impact of the first lockdown in France between March and May 2020 on migrants' lives and livelihoods. We adopted a social vulnerability framework to conceptualize how the pandemic and the consequential lockdown in France contributed to a 'compounded crisis' for asylum seekers and undocumented migrants. This crisis encompassed health, protection, and socio-economic challenges for migrants and exposed the shortcomings of existing government policies that exclude migrants and do not address the root causes of health inequities. The study draws on in-depth qualitative interviews conducted with 75 asylum seekers and undocumented migrants during the pandemic lockdown in the French regions of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes and Île-de-France. The findings of this paper highlight the importance of implementing a cohesive pandemic response approach that views health as a fundamental inclusive right for all human beings and all policies as health policies to promote well-being for all.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria De Jesus
- Center on Health, Risk, and Society, School of International Service, American University, Washington, DC 20016, USA
- Collegium de Lyon, Université de Lyon, 69002 Lyon, France
| | - Zoubida Moumni
- Psychologie de la Santé, Université Lumière Lyon 2, 69365 Lyon, France
| | - Zara Hassan Sougui
- Santé Publique, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 69100 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Neeharika Biswas
- Center on Health, Risk, and Society, School of International Service, American University, Washington, DC 20016, USA
| | - Raquel Kubicz
- Center on Health, Risk, and Society, School of International Service, American University, Washington, DC 20016, USA
| | - Lionel Pourtau
- Habitat et Humanisme, 69300 Caluire et Cuire, France
- Pôle Recherche & Innovation, Université Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, 34090 Montpellier, France
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