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Graf W, Bertram F, Dost K, Brennecke A, Kowalski V, van Rüth V, Nörz DS, Wulff B, Ondruschka B, Püschel K, Pfefferle S, Lütgehetmann M, Heinrich F. Immunity against measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella among homeless individuals in Germany - A nationwide multi-center cross-sectional study. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1375151. [PMID: 38784578 PMCID: PMC11111963 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1375151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Homeless individuals suffer a high burden of vaccine-preventable infectious diseases. Moreover, they are particularly susceptible to adverse infection outcomes with limited access to the health care system. Data on the seroprevalence of measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella within this cohort are missing. Methods The seroprevalence of measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella was determined within the homeless population in Germany. Predictors of lacking immune protection were determined using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Results Homeless individuals in Germany (n = 611) showed a seroprevalence of 88.5% (95% CI: 85.8-91.0) for measles, 83.8% (95% CI: 80.6-86.6) for mumps, 86.1% (95% CI: 83.1-88.7) for rubella, and 95.7% (95% CI 93.8-97.2) for varicella. Measles seroprevalences declined from individuals born in 1965 to individuals born in 1993, with seroprevalences not compatible with a 95% threshold in individuals born after 1980. For mumps, seroprevalences declined from individuals born in 1950 to individuals born in 1984. Here, seroprevalences were not compatible with a 92% threshold for individuals born after 1975. Seronegativity for measles, mumps and rubella was associated with age but not with gender or country of origin. Discussion Herd immunity for measles and mumps is not achieved in this homeless cohort, while there was sufficient immune protection for rubella and varicella. Declining immune protection rates in younger individuals warrant immunization campaigns also targeting marginalized groups such as homeless individuals. Given that herd immunity thresholds are not reached for individuals born after 1980 for measles, and after 1975 for mumps, vaccination campaigns should prioritize individuals within these age groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wiebke Graf
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Franziska Bertram
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Dost
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anna Brennecke
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Veronika Kowalski
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Victoria van Rüth
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dominik Sebastian Nörz
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Birgit Wulff
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Benjamin Ondruschka
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Klaus Püschel
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Susanne Pfefferle
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marc Lütgehetmann
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Fabian Heinrich
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Center for Data and Statistical Science for Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Chan JK, Marzuki AA, Vafa S, Thanaraju A, Yap J, Chan XW, Harris HA, Todi K, Schaefer A. A systematic review on the relationship between socioeconomic conditions and emotional disorder symptoms during Covid-19: unearthing the potential role of economic concerns and financial strain. BMC Psychol 2024; 12:237. [PMID: 38671542 PMCID: PMC11046828 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-024-01715-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Covid-19 has disrupted the lives of many and resulted in high prevalence rates of mental disorders. Despite a vast amount of research into the social determinants of mental health during Covid-19, little is known about whether the results are consistent with the social gradient in mental health. Here we report a systematic review of studies that investigated how socioeconomic condition (SEC)-a multifaceted construct that measures a person's socioeconomic standing in society, using indicators such as education and income, predicts emotional health (depression and anxiety) risk during the pandemic. Furthermore, we examined which classes of SEC indicators would best predict symptoms of emotional disorders. METHODS Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted search over six databases, including Scopus, PubMed, etc., between November 4, 2021 and November 11, 2021 for studies that investigated how SEC indicators predict emotional health risks during Covid-19, after obtaining approval from PROSPERO (ID: CRD42021288508). Using Covidence as the platform, 362 articles (324 cross-sectional/repeated cross-sectional and 38 longitudinal) were included in this review according to the eligibility criteria. We categorized SEC indicators into 'actual versus perceived' and 'static versus fluid' classes to explore their differential effects on emotional health. RESULTS Out of the 1479 SEC indicators used in these 362 studies, our results showed that 43.68% of the SEC indicators showed 'expected' results (i.e., higher SEC predicting better emotional health outcomes); 51.86% reported non-significant results and 4.46% reported the reverse. Economic concerns (67.16% expected results) and financial strains (64.16%) emerged as the best predictors while education (26.85%) and living conditions (30.14%) were the worst. CONCLUSIONS This review summarizes how different SEC indicators influenced emotional health risks across 98 countries, with a total of 5,677,007 participants, ranging from high to low-income countries. Our findings showed that not all SEC indicators were strongly predictive of emotional health risks. In fact, over half of the SEC indicators studied showed a null effect. We found that perceived and fluid SEC indicators, particularly economic concerns and financial strain could best predict depressive and anxiety symptoms. These findings have implications for policymakers to further understand how different SEC classes affect mental health during a pandemic in order to tackle associated social issues effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jee Kei Chan
- Department of Psychology, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, 47500, Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
- Department of Psychology, Sunway University Malaysia, Jalan Universiti, No 5, 47500, Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
- Sunway University Malaysia, Room: 4-4-11, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, 47500, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Aleya A Marzuki
- Department of Psychology, Sunway University Malaysia, Jalan Universiti, No 5, 47500, Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Samira Vafa
- Department of Psychology, Sunway University Malaysia, Jalan Universiti, No 5, 47500, Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Arjun Thanaraju
- Department of Psychology, Sunway University Malaysia, Jalan Universiti, No 5, 47500, Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Jie Yap
- Department of Psychology, Sunway University Malaysia, Jalan Universiti, No 5, 47500, Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Xiou Wen Chan
- Department of Psychology, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, 47500, Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Hanis Atasha Harris
- Department of Psychology, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, 47500, Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Khushi Todi
- Department of Psychology, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, 47500, Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Alexandre Schaefer
- Department of Psychology, Sunway University Malaysia, Jalan Universiti, No 5, 47500, Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
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Brennecke A, Heinrich F, van Rüth V, Dost K, Graf W, Kowalski V, Rauch A, Langenwalder F, Püschel K, Ondruschka B, König HH, Bertram F, Hajek A. Determinants of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among homeless individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Qual Life Res 2023; 32:3075-3083. [PMID: 37432522 PMCID: PMC10522712 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-023-03455-5] [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] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Thus far, there is very limited knowledge regarding homeless individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly related to the health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Thus, our aim was to evaluate HRQoL and to clarify the determinants of HRQoL among homeless individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany. METHODS Data were taken from the national survey on psychiatric and somatic health of homeless individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic-NAPSHI (n = 616). The established EQ-5D-5L was used to quantify problems in five health dimensions, and its visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS) was used to record self-rated health status. Sociodemographic factors were included in regression analysis. RESULTS Pain/discomfort was the most frequently reported problem (45.3%), thereafter anxiety/depression (35.9%), mobility (25.4%), usual activities (18.5%) and self-care (11.4%). Average EQ-VAS score was 68.97 (SD: 23.83), and the mean EQ-5D-5L index was 0.85 (SD: 0.24). Regressions showed that higher age and having a health insurance were associated with several problem dimensions. Being married was associated with higher EQ-VAS scores. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our study findings showed a quite high HRQoL among homeless individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany. Some important determinants of HRQoL were identified (e.g., age or marital status). Longitudinal studies are required to confirm our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Brennecke
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Fabian Heinrich
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Victoria van Rüth
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Dost
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Wiebke Graf
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Veronika Kowalski
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alessandra Rauch
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Felicia Langenwalder
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Klaus Püschel
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Benjamin Ondruschka
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Helmut König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Franziska Bertram
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - André Hajek
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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van Rüth V, Hajek A, Heinrich F, Ondruschka B, Püschel K, Bertram F. [Health of homeless individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2023:10.1007/s00103-023-03739-8. [PMID: 37466653 PMCID: PMC10372111 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-023-03739-8] [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: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
The living situation and health of homeless people differs from the general population in many ways. It is reasonable to assume that the homeless population has been particularly vulnerable during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This narrative review will summarize the current literature on the health and care of homeless people during the COVID-19 pandemic. The literature research was performed between December 2022 and February 2023. In addition to the current national and international literature, findings from the "National Survey on the Psychiatric and Somatic Health of Homeless Individuals" (NAPSHI study) will be synopsized, examining psychiatric and somatic diseases as well as the care for homeless people in Germany.Homeless individuals are often mentally and physically ill and have limited access to the regular medical care system. Facilities with group rooms and dormitories pose a risk for outbreaks during the COVID-19 pandemic. As suspected, evidence of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Type 2 (SARS-CoV‑2) infections emerged more frequently in homeless individuals than in the general population during the pandemic. Many of the infected individuals were asymptomatic. High rates of those unknowingly infected homeless individuals may have contributed to the spread of the viral disease. However, uncontrolled COVID-19 outbreaks, as feared by some researchers at the beginning of the pandemic, were not observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria van Rüth
- Institut für Rechtsmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Butenfeld 34, 22529, Hamburg, Deutschland
| | - André Hajek
- Institut für Gesundheitsökonomie und Versorgungsforschung, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Deutschland, Martinistr. 52, 20246
| | - Fabian Heinrich
- Institut für Rechtsmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Butenfeld 34, 22529, Hamburg, Deutschland
| | - Benjamin Ondruschka
- Institut für Rechtsmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Butenfeld 34, 22529, Hamburg, Deutschland
| | - Klaus Püschel
- Institut für Rechtsmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Butenfeld 34, 22529, Hamburg, Deutschland
| | - Franziska Bertram
- Institut für Rechtsmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Butenfeld 34, 22529, Hamburg, Deutschland.
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Malekmohammadi N, Mehmandoost S, Khezri M, Mirzaei H, Tavakoli F, Mousavian G, Safizadeh M, Iranpour A, Sharifi H. Correlates of quality of life and mental health among youth experiencing homelessness in Iran. BMC Psychol 2023; 11:110. [PMID: 37055852 PMCID: PMC10103456 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01145-y] [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: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Quality of life (QOL) and mental health among marginalized populations, including people experiencing homelessness in Iran, are understudied. We assessed the QOL and mental health status as well as their associated factors among youth experiencing homelessness in Kerman, Iran. METHOD We recruited 202 participants using a convenience sampling method from 11 locations, including six homeless shelters, three street outreach sites, and two drop-in service centers, from September to December 2017. Data were collected using a standardized questionnaire that included QOL, mental health, demographics, drug use, and sexual behaviors questions. Scores in each domain were indexed with a weight of 0-100. The higher score indicated a higher QOL and mental health status. Bivariable and multivariable linear regression models were performed to examine correlates of QOL and mental health. RESULT The mean (SD) score of QOL and mental health were 73.1 (25.8) and 65.1 (22.3), respectively. Multivariable analysis showed that youth experiencing homelessness who were aged 25-29 years old (β = -5.4; 95% CI: -10.51; -0.30), and lived on the streets (β = -12.1; 95% CI: -18.19; -6.07) had a lower mental health score. Moreover, those who had higher education (β = 5.4; 95% CI: 0.58; 10.38), had no history of carrying weapons (β = 12.8; 95% CI: 6.86; 18.76), and had a higher QOL score (β = 0.41; 95% CI: 0.31; 0.50) had a higher mental health score. CONCLUSION This study highlights that QOL and mental health among youth experiencing homelessness in Iran are concerning, particularly among those who were older, were less educated, were living on the street, and had a history of carrying a weapon. Community-based programs, including mental health care and affordable housing are needed to improve QOL and mental health among this population in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Malekmohammadi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Soheil Mehmandoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Khezri
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
- Department of Epidemiology, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Hossein Mirzaei
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Tavakoli
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ghazal Mousavian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mansureh Safizadeh
- Department of Population and Family Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Abedin Iranpour
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
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Meray V, Motorwala A, Sellers KP, Suarez A, Schneider GW. Telehealth Monitoring for Individuals Experiencing Homelessness During the Early COVID-19 Pandemic: An Innovative Clinical and Medical Education Model. Cureus 2022; 14:e31528. [DOI: 10.7759/cureus.31528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Chronic diseases and multi-morbidity in persons experiencing homelessness: results from a cross-sectional study conducted at three humanitarian clinics in Germany in 2020. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1597. [PMID: 35996145 PMCID: PMC9395771 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14023-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Persons experiencing homelessness (PEH) suffer a high burden of chronic diseases and multi-morbidity, yet face significant barriers in accessing healthcare services. These health inequalities were further aggravated during the COVID-19 pandemic. While there is a lack of comprehensive health data on PEH, even less is known about populations experiencing housing exclusion, a hidden form of homelessness. This study examines and compares chronic diseases and multi-morbidity in PEH, persons experiencing housing exclusion, and persons with secure housing who lacked access to regular healthcare services in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany. Methods Study participants were adults who sought medical care at clinics of the humanitarian organisation “Ärzte der Welt” in Munich, Hamburg and Berlin in 2020. The patients were categorised into three housing groups according to the ETHOS classification of homelessness and housing exclusion. Socio-demographic characteristics, self-rated health, chronic diseases and multi-morbidity were described in each group. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify socio-demographic factors associated with higher odds of chronic diseases and multi-morbidity in each housing group. Results Of the 695 study participants, 333 experienced homelessness, 292 experienced housing exclusion and 70 had secure housing. 92.3% of all patients had either no or limited health coverage, and 96.7% were below the poverty line. Males and EU/EEA citizens were highly represented among PEH (74.2% and 56.8% respectively). PEH had lower self-rated health (47.8%, p = 0.04), and a higher prevalence of psychiatric illness (20.9%, p = 0.04). In adjusted analyses, belonging to the age group 35–49 and ≥ 50 years were associated with greater odds of chronic disease (AOR = 2.33, 95% CI = 1.68–3.24; AOR = 3.57, 95% CI = 2.55–5.01, respectively) while being ≥ 50 years old was associated with multi-morbidity (AOR = 2.01, 95% CI = 1.21, 3.33). Of the 18 participants tested for SARS-COV-2, 15 were PEH, 1 of whom tested positive. Conclusions Housing status was not an independent risk factor for chronic disease and multi-morbidity in our study population. However, PEH reported poorer self-rated and psychiatric health. Strategies to improve access to healthcare services amongst persons experiencing homelessness and housing exclusion are needed in Germany.
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Nouri M, Ostadtaghizadeh A, Sari AA. COVID-19 in Homelessness: A Worldwide Scoping Review on Vulnerabilities, Risks, and Risk Management. SOCIAL WORK IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 37:303-318. [PMID: 34963409 DOI: 10.1080/19371918.2021.2011525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Homeless individuals are at greater risk of death due to social inequalities during Covid-19 pandemic. Strategies taken for general population to prevent the spread of Covid-19, such as social distance, staying at home, and observing personal hygiene are not possible for this group of people. This is a scoping review on articles published and other credible resources published analyze studies done on homeless people during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this scoping review, for the first time, we studied published articles on the situation of the homeless during the Covid-19 epidemic and by extracting and categorizing vulnerabilities, risks, as well as risk management plans, Finally we presented, useful guidance for organizations providing health and social services during the spread of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Nouri
- Department of Health in Emergencies and Disasters, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences(TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Ostadtaghizadeh
- Department of Health in Emergencies and Disasters, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences(TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Akbari Sari
- Department of Health Management and EconomicsSchool of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (Tums), Tehran, Iran
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Burström B, Irestig R, Burström K. EQ-5D-3L Health Status Among Homeless People in Stockholm, Sweden, 2006 and 2018. Front Public Health 2022; 9:780753. [PMID: 34988055 PMCID: PMC8720753 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.780753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Homeless people are a socially excluded group whose health reflects exposures to intersecting social determinants of health. The aim of this study was to describe and compare the demographic composition, certain social determinants of health, and self-reported health among homeless people in Stockholm, Sweden, in 2006 and 2018. Methods: Analysis of data from face-to-face interviews with homeless people in Stockholm 2006 (n = 155) and 2018 (n = 148), based on a public health survey questionnaire adapted to the group, including the EQ-5D-3L instrument. The chi-squared test was employed to test for statistical significance between groups and the independent t-test for comparison of mean scores and values. Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression, with Robust Standard Errors (RSE) was performed on merged 2006 and 2018 data with mean observed EQ VAS score as outcome variable. Results: In 2018 more homeless people originated from countries outside Europe, had temporary social assistance than long-term social insurance, compared to in 2006. In 2018 more respondents reported lack of social support, exposure to violence, and refrained from seeking health care because of economic reasons. Daily smoking, binge drinking, and use of narcotic drugs was lower 2018 than 2006. In 2018 a higher proportion reported problems in the EQ-5D-3L dimensions, the mean TTO index value and the VAS index value was significantly lower than in 2006. In the regression analysis of merged data there was no significant difference between the years. Conclusions: Homeless people are an extremely disadvantaged group, have high rates of illness and disease and report poor health in all EQ-5D-3L dimensions. The EQ VAS score among the homeless people in 2018 is comparable to the score among persons aged 95-104 years in the general Swedish population 2017. The EQ-5D-3L instrument was easily administered to this group, its use allows comparison with larger population groups. Efforts are needed regarding housing, but also intensified collaboration by public authorities with responsibilities for homeless people's health and social welfare. Further studies should evaluate the impact of such efforts by health and social care services on the health and well-being of homeless people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Burström
- Equity and Health Policy Research Group, Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Kristina Burström
- Equity and Health Policy Research Group, Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Health Outcomes and Economic Evaluation Research Group, Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Stockholm Centre for Healthcare Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Corey J, Lyons J, O’Carroll A, Stafford R, Ivers JH. A Scoping Review of the Health Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Persons Experiencing Homelessness in North America and Europe. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:3219. [PMID: 35328907 PMCID: PMC8954292 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Persons experiencing homelessness (PEH) are at heightened risk for infection, morbidity, and mortality from COVID-19. However, health consequences of the pandemic extend far beyond those directly caused by the virus. This scoping review aimed to explore the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the health and well-being of PEH in North America and Europe. A systematic search of academic and grey literature was conducted in September 2021. To be included, studies had to include primary data related to the impact of the pandemic on health or well-being of PEH and be written in English. All potentially relevant references were independently screened by two reviewers, and minor conflicts were settled with input of a third reviewer. A total of 96 articles met criteria for inclusion. Data extraction was completed for all included studies, and findings synthesised and presented thematically. Numerous health impacts of the pandemic on PEH were identified, including SARS-CoV-2 infection, morbidity, mortality, and hospitalisation, fear of infection, access to housing, hygiene, PPE, food, as well as mental health, substance use, other health-related outcomes and treatment services. Gaps in the literature relating to persons using alcohol, access to mental health support, and violence were also identified. Implications for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Corey
- Department of Public Health & Primary Care, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, D24H74 Dublin, Ireland; (J.C.); (J.L.)
| | - James Lyons
- Department of Public Health & Primary Care, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, D24H74 Dublin, Ireland; (J.C.); (J.L.)
| | | | - Richie Stafford
- HSE Community Healthcare Organisation Dublin North City & County, D09C8P5 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Jo-Hanna Ivers
- Department of Public Health & Primary Care, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, D24H74 Dublin, Ireland; (J.C.); (J.L.)
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Scarlett H, Davisse-Paturet C, Longchamps C, Aarbaoui TE, Allaire C, Colleville AC, Convence-Arulthas M, Crouzet L, Ducarroz S, Melchior M. Depression during the COVID-19 pandemic amongst residents of homeless shelters in France. JOURNAL OF AFFECTIVE DISORDERS REPORTS 2021; 6:100243. [PMID: 34632442 PMCID: PMC8487751 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadr.2021.100243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Accumulating evidence suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic has negatively affected global mental health and well-being. However, the impact amongst homeless persons has not been fully evaluated. The ECHO study reports factors associated with depression amongst the homeless population living in shelters in France during the spring of 2020. Methods Interview data were collected from 527 participants living in temporary and/or emergency accommodation following France's first lockdown (02/05/20 – 07/06/20), in the metropolitan regions of Paris (74%), Lyon (19%) and Strasbourg (7%). Interviews were conducted in French, English, or with interpreters (33% of participants, ∼20 languages). Presence of depression was ascertained using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Results Amongst ECHO study participants, 30% had symptoms of moderate to severe depression (PHQ-9 ≥ 10). Multivariate analysis revealed depression to be associated with being female (aOR: 2.15; CI: 1.26–3.69), single (aOR: 1.60; CI: 1.01–2.52), chronically ill (aOR: 2.32; CI: 1.43: 3.78), facing food insecurity (aOR: 2.12; CI: 1.40–3.22) and participants’ region of origin. Persons born African and Eastern Mediterranean regions showed higher levels of depression (30–33% of participants) than those migrating from other European countries (14%). Reduced rates of depression were observed amongst participants aged 30–49 (aOR: 0.60; CI: 0.38–0.95) and over 50 (aOR: 0.28; CI: 0.13–0.64), compared to 18–29-year-olds. Limitations These data are cross-sectional, only providing information on a given moment in time. Conclusions Our results indicate high levels of depression amongst homeless persons during the COVID-19 pandemic. Predicted future instability and economic repercussions could particularly impact the mental health of this vulnerable group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honor Scarlett
- Équipe de Recherche en Épidémiologie Sociale, Institut Pierre Louis d'Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP,Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Paris F75012, France
| | - Camille Davisse-Paturet
- Équipe de Recherche en Épidémiologie Sociale, Institut Pierre Louis d'Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP,Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Paris F75012, France
| | - Cécile Longchamps
- Équipe de Recherche en Épidémiologie Sociale, Institut Pierre Louis d'Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP,Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Paris F75012, France
| | - Tarik El Aarbaoui
- Équipe de Recherche en Épidémiologie Sociale, Institut Pierre Louis d'Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP,Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Paris F75012, France
| | - Cécile Allaire
- French National Public Health Agency, Santé Publique France, Saint-Maurice F94415, France
| | - Anne-Claire Colleville
- French National Public Health Agency, Santé Publique France, Saint-Maurice F94415, France
| | - Mary Convence-Arulthas
- Équipe de Recherche en Épidémiologie Sociale, Institut Pierre Louis d'Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP,Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Paris F75012, France
| | - Lisa Crouzet
- Research on Healthcare Performance RESHAPE, INSERM U1290, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, France
| | - Simon Ducarroz
- Équipe de Recherche en Épidémiologie Sociale, Institut Pierre Louis d'Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP,Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Paris F75012, France.,Research on Healthcare Performance RESHAPE, INSERM U1290, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, France
| | - Maria Melchior
- Équipe de Recherche en Épidémiologie Sociale, Institut Pierre Louis d'Épidémiologie et de Santé Publique, IPLESP,Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Paris F75012, France.,CNRS, Institut Convergences Migration, Aubervilliers, France
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