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Sánchez Hidalgo M, Andrés MS, Canadell Rusiñol J, Fürstenheim Milerud LP, Gómez Palomar E, Moya Tena M. [Barriers and facilitators in accessing and using primary health care centers for people experiencing homelessness]. Aten Primaria 2024; 56:102949. [PMID: 38678854 PMCID: PMC11066605 DOI: 10.1016/j.aprim.2024.102949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify barriers and facilitators for the access and use of primary care centers for people experiencing homelessness. DESIGN Qualitative study, phenomenological theoretical-methodological approach. Between May 19 and July 27, 2023. LOCATION Besòs Primary Health Care Center and Gregal social dining (Besòs and Maresme neighborhood, Barcelona). PARTICIPANTS People experiencing homelessness attending the Gregal social dining and professionals from the Besòs Primary Health Care Center. METHOD Theoretical purposive sampling. Individual and group interviews and open non-participant observation. Thematic content analysis, triangulation by independent analysis of three members of the research team and triangulation of methods. Discourse saturation was achieved through variability of discourse and techniques. RESULTS Eleven individual interviews, three group interviews and two observations. Different barriers and facilitators were identified. These were classified into five categories: (1)concept and identification of people experiencing homelessness; (2)personal factors of people experiencing homelessness; (3)behaviors and attitudes of professionals; (4)structural factors related to health system regulation, anf (5)internal organizational factors of primary health care centers. CONCLUSIONS People experiencing homelessness face multiple barriers to access primary health care, although there are also facilitators such as trusting relationships and multidisciplinary and intersectoral work that can be enhanced from primary health care centers to contribute to health equity.
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Tannerah A, Hazel O, Desson S, Farah R, Kamil‐Thomas Z, Iqbal H, Eames C, Saini P, Bifarin O. Consultations With Muslims From Minoritised Ethnic Communities Living in Deprived Areas: Identifying Inequities in Mental Health Care and Support. Health Expect 2024; 27:e14132. [PMID: 38956944 PMCID: PMC11220172 DOI: 10.1111/hex.14132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limited research concerning existing inequities in mental health care and support services in the United Kingdom captures perceptions and lived experiences of the significantly underrepresented Muslim population. METHODS Underpinned by social constructivist theory, we used consultation to facilitate public and patient involvement and engagement (PPIE) to identify inequities in mental health care and support experienced by Muslims from minoritised ethnic communities living in deprived areas in Liverpool, UK. The rationale was to (a) better inform standards and policies in healthcare and (b) provide a psychologically safe space to members of the Muslim community to share perceptions and experiences of mental health care and support services. To ensure trustworthiness of the data, member checking was adopted. This paper describes the procedure to achieving this consultation, including our recruitment strategy, data collection and analysis as well as key findings. FINDINGS Twenty-seven consultees attended the women's consultation and eight consultees attended the men's consultation. Consultees were from Yemeni, Somali, Sudanese, Egyptian, Algerian, Pakistani and Moroccan communities and share the Islamic faith. Four key interlinked themes were identified from consultees' narratives: (1) broken cycle of trust; (2) an overmedicalised model of care; (3) community mental health prevention initiatives; and (4) culturally conscious training and education. CONCLUSIONS The Muslim population has identified numerous barriers to accessing mental health support and there is a need to resource activities that would aid deeper understanding of mental health support needs through continuous and meaningful community initiatives. This would afford mental health practitioners and organisations opportunities for developing realistic anti-racism strategies, effectively adopting social prescription, strengthening partnerships and collaborations aimed at supporting delivery of evidence-based mental health care provisions to tackle mental health inequities. PATIENT AND PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT This paper reports on the involvement and engagement of Muslims from minoritised ethnic communities living in the Liverpool city region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Tannerah
- School of Nursing and Advanced Practice, School of PsychologyLiverpool John Moores UniversityLiverpoolUK
- Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation TrustLiverpoolUK
| | | | - Sheree Desson
- School of Nursing and Advanced Practice, School of PsychologyLiverpool John Moores UniversityLiverpoolUK
- Mersey Care NHS Foundation TrustLiverpoolUK
| | - Rahima Farah
- Central Liverpool Primary Care NetworkLiverpoolUK
- Liverpool City CouncilLiverpoolUK
| | - Zalihe Kamil‐Thomas
- School of Nursing and Advanced Practice, School of PsychologyLiverpool John Moores UniversityLiverpoolUK
| | - Halima Iqbal
- School of Nursing and Healthcare LeadershipUniversity of BradfordBradfordUK
| | - Catrin Eames
- School of Nursing and Advanced Practice, School of PsychologyLiverpool John Moores UniversityLiverpoolUK
| | - Pooja Saini
- School of Nursing and Advanced Practice, School of PsychologyLiverpool John Moores UniversityLiverpoolUK
| | - Oladayo Bifarin
- School of Nursing and Advanced Practice, School of PsychologyLiverpool John Moores UniversityLiverpoolUK
- Mersey Care NHS Foundation TrustLiverpoolUK
- Senior Research Leader ProgrammeNational Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR)LondonUK
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Hodwitz K, Ginocchio GF, Fedorovsky T, Girdler H, Bossin B, Juando-Prats C, Dell E, Somers A, Hulme J. Healthcare workers' perspectives on a prescription phone program to meet the health equity needs of patients in the emergency department: a qualitative study. CAN J EMERG MED 2024; 26:570-581. [PMID: 38951473 PMCID: PMC11335851 DOI: 10.1007/s43678-024-00735-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES People experiencing homelessness and marginalization face considerable barriers to accessing healthcare services. Increased reliance on technology within healthcare has exacerbated these inequities. We evaluated a hospital-based prescription phone program aimed to reduce digital health inequities and improve access to services among marginalized patients in Emergency Departments. We examined the perceived outcomes of the program and the contextual barriers and facilitators affecting outcomes. METHODS We conducted a constructivist qualitative program evaluation at two urban, academic hospitals in Toronto, Ontario. We interviewed 12 healthcare workers about their perspectives on program implementation and outcomes and analyzed the interview data using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS Our analyses generated five interrelated program outcomes: building trust with patients, facilitating independence in healthcare, bridging sectors of care, enabling equitable care for marginalized populations, and mitigating moral distress among healthcare workers. Participants expressed that phone provision is critical for adequately serving patients who face barriers to accessing health and social services, and for supporting healthcare workers who often lack resources to adequately serve these patients. We identified key contextual enablers and challenges that may influence program outcomes and future implementation efforts. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that providing phones to marginalized patient populations may address digital and social health inequities; however, building trusting relationships with patients, understanding the unique needs of these populations, and operating within a biopsychosocial model of health are key to program success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Hodwitz
- Applied Health Research Centre, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Galo F Ginocchio
- Einstein Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Tali Fedorovsky
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hannah Girdler
- Centre for Global Equity in Emergency Medicine, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Brielle Bossin
- Emergency Department, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Clara Juando-Prats
- Applied Health Research Centre, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Evelyn Dell
- Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Andrea Somers
- University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jennifer Hulme
- University Health Network, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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O'Shaughnessy BR, Mayock P, Kakar A. The recovery experiences of homeless service users with substance use disorder: A systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 130:104528. [PMID: 39053034 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104528] [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: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relationship between homelessness and substance use disorder (SUD) is layered and complex. Adults pursuing recovery while dealing with homelessness and SUD face many challenges. Little research has inspected qualitative first-person accounts of recovery in the context of homelessness and SUD, and few studies have employed conceptualisations of recovery beyond abstinence. In this systematic review study, we examine the qualitative literature on the recovery experiences of adult homeless service users with SUD. METHODS 2,042 records were identified via database and secondary searching strategy. After title and abstract and full text screening, 15 eligible studies remained. Critical Appraisal Skills Programme quality appraisal criteria was used to assess potential bias in the studies. Meta-ethnography was employed to synthesise extracted data. RESULTS Four themes were generated from the extracted data: Two sides of the Service Coin; Navigating Relationships; Recovery Practices and Personal Attributes; and Housing as Foundational for Recovery. CONCLUSION Unconditional housing, a broad array of supports, opportunities to contribute to society, and family reunification supports all facilitate the development of recovery for adults with SUD experiencing homelessness. Implications for policy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Branagh R O'Shaughnessy
- School of Social Work and Social Policy, Trinity College Dublin, College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Paula Mayock
- School of Social Work and Social Policy, Trinity College Dublin, College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
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Gaber SN, Franck J, Widing H, Hällgren J, Mattsson E, Westman J. Excess mortality among people in homelessness with substance use disorders: a Swedish cohort study. J Epidemiol Community Health 2024; 78:473-478. [PMID: 38772698 PMCID: PMC11287526 DOI: 10.1136/jech-2023-220989] [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: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People in homelessness have an increased risk of substance use disorders (SUDs) and poor health outcomes. This cohort study aimed to investigate the association between homelessness and mortality in people with SUDs, adjusting for age, sex, narcotic use, intravenous drug use and inpatient care for SUDs. METHODS Data from the Swedish National Addiction Care Quality Register in the Stockholm region were used to analyse mortality risk in people with SUDs (n=8397), including 637 in homelessness, 1135 in precarious housing and 6625 in stable housing, at baseline. HRs and CIs were calculated using Cox regression. RESULTS Mortality was increased for people in homelessness (HR 2.30; 95% CI 1.70 to 3.12) and precarious housing (HR 1.23; 95% CI 0.86 to 1.75) compared with those in stable housing. The association between homelessness and mortality decreased (HR 1.27; 95% CI 0.91 to 1.78) after adjusting for narcotic use (HR 1.28; 95% CI 1.00 to 1.63), intravenous drug use (HR 1.98; 95% CI 1.52 to 2.58) and inpatient care for SUDs (HR 1.96; 95% CI 1.57 to 2.45). Standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) showed that mortality among people in homelessness with SUDs was 13.6 times higher than the general population (SMR=13.6; 95% CI 10.2 to 17.9), and 3.7 times higher in people in stable housing with SUDs (SMR=3.7; 95% CI 3.2 to 4.1). CONCLUSION Homelessness increased mortality, but the risk decreased after adjusting for narcotic use, intravenous drug use and inpatient care for SUDs. Interventions are needed to reduce excess mortality among people in homelessness with SUDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Nadia Gaber
- Department of Healthcare Sciences, Marie Cederschiöld högskola-Campus Ersta, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Healthcare Sciences and e-Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Faculty of Brain Sciences, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Johan Franck
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Härje Widing
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jonas Hällgren
- Academic Primary Care Center, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elisabet Mattsson
- Department of Healthcare Sciences, Marie Cederschiöld högskola-Campus Ersta, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Healthcare Sciences and e-Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jeanette Westman
- Department of Healthcare Sciences, Marie Cederschiöld högskola-Campus Ersta, Stockholm, Sweden
- Academic Primary Care Center, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Paulus K, Bass SB, Kelly PJA, Pilla J, Otor A, Scialanca M, Arroyo A, Faison N. Using health belief model constructs to understand the role of perceived disease threat and resilience in responding to COVID-19 among people who use drugs: a cluster analysis. ADVANCES IN DRUG AND ALCOHOL RESEARCH 2024; 4:12197. [PMID: 39040943 PMCID: PMC11261343 DOI: 10.3389/adar.2024.12197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Introduction The Health Belief Model (HBM) has been successfully applied to understanding adherence to COVID-19 prevention practices. It has not, however, been used to understand behavior in people who use drugs (PWUD). The aim of this study was to use the HBM to better understand COVID-19 perceptions among PWUD and understand how resiliency affects those perceptions. Materials and methods A cross-sectional survey was completed from September to December 2021 with PWUD (n = 75) who utilize services at a large harm reduction organization in Philadelphia. Segmentation analysis was done using a k-means clustering approach. Two clusters emerged based on perceived COVID-19 personal impact and resiliency (Less COVID impact/High resilience (NoCOV/HR) and High COVID impact/Low resilience (COV/LR). Differences in responses by cluster to perceptions of COVID-19 and individual pandemic response grouped by HBM constructs were assessed using Student's t-test and chi squares. Results Significant differences in HBM constructs were seen between clusters. Those in the COV/LR cluster were more likely to think they were susceptible to getting COVID-19 and less likely to believe they knew how to protect themselves. The NoCOV/HR cluster believed they were able to protect themselves from COVID-19 and that they were able to easily understand messages about protecting themselves. Conclusion Understanding how PWUD conceptualize disease threat and using HBM can better inform interventions to improve future pandemic response. Findings suggest that resilience is key to protecting PWUD from future infectious disease outbreaks. Interventions aimed at increasing resiliency among PWUD may improve preventative behavior and decrease disease burden in this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Paulus
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Risk Communication Laboratory, Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sarah Bauerle Bass
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Risk Communication Laboratory, Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Patrick J. A. Kelly
- Risk Communication Laboratory, Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Jenine Pilla
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Risk Communication Laboratory, Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - AnnaMarie Otor
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Risk Communication Laboratory, Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Madison Scialanca
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Risk Communication Laboratory, Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Anamarys Arroyo
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Risk Communication Laboratory, Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Namaijah Faison
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Risk Communication Laboratory, Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Chen Y, Zhong Y, Wang M, Su X, Li Q, Wang J, Sun L. Global trends and differences in the burden of alcohol use disorders attributable to childhood sexual abuse by sex, age, and socio-demographic index: Findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2024; 153:106818. [PMID: 38696952 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2024.106818] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) is a severe global problem associated with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Previous studies have confirmed this relationship; however, there is a lack of research on the disease burden of AUD attributable to CSA. OBJECTIVE To analyze global spatiotemporal trends and differences in the disease burden of AUD attributable to CSA and its relationship with age, sex, and the sociodemographic index (SDI). PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Data from the Global Burden of Disease 2019 Public Database. METHODS Summary exposure value (SEV) was used to evaluate CSA. Disability-adjusted life year (DALY), years lived with disability (YLD), years of life lost (YLL), and their annual rates of change were used to evaluate disease burden. Cluster analysis based on Ward's method was used to examine the global burden associated with age, sex, and SDI. A 95 % uncertainty intervals (UI), excluding 0, was considered statistically significant. RESULTS In 2019, 1.63 million (95 % UI 0.23-3.90 million) DALYs of AUD were caused by CSA and the age-standardized rates (ASRs) of DALY was 19.77 (95 % UI 2.78-47.46) globally. Annual rates of change in DALY of people over 65 years of age increased from 1990 to 2019 in all regions except the High-middle SDI regions. The ASRs of DALY of females in High SDI regions, were always at a much higher level than other SDI regions, and showed an upward trend from 1990 to 2019 (DALY 1990: 20.38 [95 % UI 2.87-47.77], 2019: 23.61 [95 % UI 3.55-54.94]). CONCLUSIONS Substantial geographical differences were observed in the burden of AUD attributable to CSA. The level of CSA exposure was inconsistent with the related burden of AUD in different regions according to the sociodemographic index. The burden of disease increased in the elderly population and in females in high sociodemographic index regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Chen
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China; National Health Commission of China (NHC) Key Laboratory of Health Economics and Policy Research (Shandong University), Jinan 250012, China
| | - Yunxi Zhong
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China; National Health Commission of China (NHC) Key Laboratory of Health Economics and Policy Research (Shandong University), Jinan 250012, China
| | - Meiqi Wang
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China; National Health Commission of China (NHC) Key Laboratory of Health Economics and Policy Research (Shandong University), Jinan 250012, China
| | - Xiaoying Su
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China; National Health Commission of China (NHC) Key Laboratory of Health Economics and Policy Research (Shandong University), Jinan 250012, China
| | - Qixiu Li
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China; National Health Commission of China (NHC) Key Laboratory of Health Economics and Policy Research (Shandong University), Jinan 250012, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China; National Health Commission of China (NHC) Key Laboratory of Health Economics and Policy Research (Shandong University), Jinan 250012, China
| | - Long Sun
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China; National Health Commission of China (NHC) Key Laboratory of Health Economics and Policy Research (Shandong University), Jinan 250012, China.
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Roy L, Leclair M, Crocker AG, Abdel-Baki A, de Benedictis L, Bérubé FA, Thibeault E, Latimer E, Roy MA. Risk factors for homelessness and housing instability in the first episode of mental illness: Initial findings from the AMONT study. Early Interv Psychiatry 2024; 18:561-570. [PMID: 38353025 DOI: 10.1111/eip.13495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
AIM People living with mental illness are more likely than the general population to experience adverse housing outcomes, including homelessness. The aim of the current study is to examine residential status when participants have their first contact with mental health services, and the correlates of residential status at that moment. METHODS First-time mental health service users were recruited from seven clinical sites across Québec. Data on residential status at entry in the project, as well as demographic, clinical and social variables, were collected using self-report and interviewer-rated questionnaires. Participants were classified as 'Homeless', 'At risk of homelessness' and 'Stably Housed', and correlates of residential status were identified through multivariate logistic regression and unbiased recursive partitioning. RESULTS Among the 478 participants, 206 (43.1%) were in stable housing, 171 (35.8%) were at risk of homelessness and 101 (21.1%) were classified as homeless. Placement in a youth protection facility was strongly associated with adverse housing outcomes, while having a high school diploma and more social support were associated with more stable housing situations. CONCLUSIONS First-time mental health service users are likely to experience a range of adverse housing situations, indicating the potential for clinical sites to implement homelessness primary prevention strategies. Factors related to family, foster care and schooling seem to be particularly salient in understanding risk of homelessness in first-time mental health service users, calling for intersectoral action to prevent adverse psychosocial outcomes in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurence Roy
- School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
- Douglas Mental Health University Research Center (DMHURC), Montréal, Canada
- Centre de recherche de Montréal sur les inégalités sociales, les discriminations et les pratiques alternatives de citoyenneté (CREMIS), Montréal, Canada
| | - Marichelle Leclair
- Département de psychoéducation et de psychologie, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Gatineau, Canada
| | - Anne G Crocker
- Institut National de Psychiatrie Légale Philippe-Pinel, Montréal, Canada
| | - Amal Abdel-Baki
- Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Montréal, Canada
| | | | | | - Esther Thibeault
- Douglas Mental Health University Research Center (DMHURC), Montréal, Canada
| | - Eric Latimer
- School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
- Douglas Mental Health University Research Center (DMHURC), Montréal, Canada
| | - Marc-André Roy
- Université Laval, Québec, Canada
- Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Québec, Québec, Canada
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O'Neill A, Shaw J, Plugge E, Brimblecombe N, Hargreaves C, Robinson C, Forsyth K. Social care in prisons: Urgent development required. MEDICINE, SCIENCE, AND THE LAW 2024; 64:175-178. [PMID: 38403991 DOI: 10.1177/00258024241233462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Adam O'Neill
- Social Care and Society, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Jenny Shaw
- Health and Justice Research Network, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Emma Plugge
- Population Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Nicola Brimblecombe
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Claire Hargreaves
- Centre for Child and Family Justice Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Catherine Robinson
- Social Care and Society, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Katrina Forsyth
- Social Care and Society, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Bukten A, Virtanen S, Hesse M, Thylstrup B, Kvamme TL, Seid AK, Chang Z, Skjærvø I, Tverborgvik T, Stavseth MR. The prevalence of substance use disorders among people in Norwegian, Danish and Swedish prisons: A multi-national cohort study, 2010-19. Addiction 2024; 119:1264-1275. [PMID: 38529890 DOI: 10.1111/add.16477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
AIMS We estimated the prevalence of substance use disorders (SUDs) in the Norwegian, Danish and Swedish prison populations and compared the prevalence of SUDs in the national prison populations with country-specific general population prevalence rates. DESIGN A multi-national cohort study using data from the National Prison Registries linked to the National Patient Registries in Norway, Denmark and Sweden. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS We used data from the PriSUD-Nordic study, including national prison populations aged 19 years and older in Norway (2010-19), Denmark (2010-18) and Sweden (2010-13). A total of 119 507 Individuals (108 971 men and 10 536 women) contributing to 191 549 incarcerations were included in the study (Norway: 45432 men; 5429 women, Denmark: 42 162 men; 3370 women, Sweden: 21 377 men; 1737 women). MEASUREMENT We calculated a study prevalence and prevalence at entry to prison for all types of SUDs before imprisonment each consecutive year of observation in each prison population. We also extracted country-specific 1-year prevalence rates from the Global Burden of Diseases database to calculate comparative national prevalence ratios. FINDINGS The study prevalence of any SUD was approximately 40% [Norway: 44.0%, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 43.6-44.5%; Denmark: 39.9%, CI = 39.5-40.4%; Sweden: 39.1%, CI = 38.4-39.7%] in all three countries. Women had a significantly higher study prevalence of any SUD compared with men (Norway: 55.8 versus 42.6%, P < 0.001; Denmark 43.1 versus 39.7%, P = 0.004; Sweden: 51.7 versus 38.0%, P < 0.001). Prevalence estimates were higher for SUDs among people in prison than in the general population. We observed an increasing proportion of people with SUDs entering prison in Norway (P = 0.003), while the proportion was more stable in Denmark and Sweden. CONCLUSIONS Substance use disorders (SUDs) appear to be highly prevalent among the Scandinavian prison populations compared with the general population, especially among women. In Norway, there was a relative increase in SUDs from 2010 to 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Bukten
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Norway
| | - Suvi Virtanen
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Morten Hesse
- Centre for Alcohol and Drug Research, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Birgitte Thylstrup
- Centre for Alcohol and Drug Research, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Abdu Kedir Seid
- Centre for Alcohol and Drug Research, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Zheng Chang
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ingeborg Skjærvø
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Norway
| | - Torill Tverborgvik
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Marianne R Stavseth
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Norway
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O'Leary C, Ralphs R, Stevenson J, Smith A, Harrison J, Kiss Z, Armitage H. The effectiveness of abstinence-based and harm reduction-based interventions in reducing problematic substance use in adults who are experiencing homelessness in high income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis: A systematic review. CAMPBELL SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2024; 20:e1396. [PMID: 38645303 PMCID: PMC11032639 DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Background Homelessness is a traumatic experience, and can have a devastating effect on those experiencing it. People who are homeless often face significant barriers when accessing public services, and have often experienced adverse childhood events, extreme social disadvantage, physical, emotional and sexual abuse, neglect, low self-esteem, poor physical and mental health, and much lower life expectancy compared to the general population. Rates of problematic substance use are disproportionately high, with many using drugs and alcohol to deal with the stress of living on the street, to keep warm, or to block out memories of previous abuse or trauma. Substance dependency can also create barriers to successful transition to stable housing. Objectives To understand the effectiveness of different substance use interventions for adults experiencing homelessness. Search Methods The primary source of studies for was the 4th edition of the Homelessness Effectiveness Studies Evidence and Gaps Maps (EGM). Searches for the EGM were completed in September 2021. Other potential studies were identified through a call for grey evidence, hand-searching key journals, and unpacking relevant systematic reviews. Selection Criteria Eligible studies were impact evaluations that involved some comparison group. We included studies that tested the effectiveness of substance use interventions, and measured substance use outcomes, for adults experiencing homelessness in high income countries. Data Collection and Analysis Descriptive characteristics and statistical information in included studies were coded and checked by at least two members of the review team. Studies selected for the review were assessed for confidence in the findings. Standardised effect sizes were calculated and, if a study did not provide sufficient raw data for the calculation of an effect size, author(s) were contacted to obtain these data. We used random-effects meta-analysis and robust-variance estimation procedures to synthesise effect sizes. If a study included multiple effects, we carried out a critical assessment to determine (even if only theoretically) whether the effects are likely to be dependent. Where dependent effects were identified, we used robust variance estimation to determine whether we can account for these. Where effect sizes were converted from a binary to continuous measure (or vice versa), we undertook a sensitivity analysis by running an additional analysis with these studies omitted. We also assessed the sensitivity of results to inclusion of non-randomised studies and studies classified as low confidence in findings. All included an assessment of statistical heterogeneity. Finally, we undertook analysis to assess whether publication bias was likely to be a factor in our findings. For those studies that we were unable to include in meta-analysis, we have provided a narrative synthesis of the study and its findings. Main Results We included 48 individual papers covering 34 unique studies. The studies covered 15, 255 participants, with all but one of the studies being from the United States and Canada. Most papers were rated as low confidence (n = 25, or 52%). By far the most common reason for studies being rated as low confidence was high rates of attrition and/or differential attrition of study participants, that fell below the What Works Clearinghouse liberal attrition standard. Eleven of the included studies were rated as medium confidence and 12 studies as high confidence. The interventions included in our analysis were more effective in reducing substance use than treatment as usual, with an overall effect size of -0.11 SD (95% confidence interval [CI], -0.27, 0.05). There was substantial heterogeneity across studies, and the results were sensitive to the removal of low confidence studies (-0.21 SD, 95% CI [-0.59, 0.17] - 6 studies, 17 effect sizes), the removal of quasi-experimental studies (-0.14 SD, 95% CI [-0.30, 0.02] - 14 studies, 41 effect sizes) and the removal of studies where an effect size had been converted from a binary to a continuous outcome (-0.08 SD, 95% CI [-0.31, 0.15] - 10 studies, 31 effect sizes). This suggests that the findings are sensitive to the inclusion of lower quality studies, although unusually the average effect increases when we removed low confidence studies. The average effect for abstinence-based interventions compared to treatment-as-usual (TAU) service provision was -0.28 SD (95% CI, -0.65, 0.09) (6 studies, 15 effect sizes), and for harm reduction interventions compared to a TAU service provision is close to 0 at 0.03 SD (95% CI, -0.08, 0.14) (9 studies, 30 effect sizes). The confidence intervals for both estimates are wide and crossing zero. For both, the comparison groups are primarily abstinence-based, with the exception of two studies where the comparison group condition was unclear. We found that both Assertative Community Treatment and Intensive Case Management were no better than treatment as usual, with average effect on substance use of 0.03 SD, 95% CI [-0.07, 0.13] and -0.47 SD, 95% CI [-0.72, -0.21] 0.05 SD, 95% CI [-0.28, 0.39] respectively. These findings are consistent with wider research, and it is important to note that we only examined the effect on substance use outcomes (these interventions can be effective in terms of other outcomes). We found that CM interventions can be effective in reducing substance use compared to treatment as usual, with an average effect of -0.47 SD, 95% CI (-0.72, -0.21). All of these results need to be considered in light of the quality of the underlying evidence. There were six further interventions where we undertook narrative synthesis. These syntheses suggest that Group Work, Harm Reduction Psychotherapy, and Therapeutic Communities are effective in reducing substance use, with mixed results found for Motivational Interviewing and Talking Therapies (including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy). The narrative synthesis suggested that Residential Rehabilitation was no better than treatment as usual in terms of reducing substance use for our population of interest. Authors' Conclusions Although our analysis of harm reduction versus treatment as usual, abstinence versus treatment as usual, and harm reduction versus abstinence suggests that these different approaches make little real difference to the outcomes achieved in comparison to treatment as usual. The findings suggest that some individual interventions are more effective than others. The overall low quality of the primary studies suggests that further primary impact research could be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rob Ralphs
- Manchester Metropolitan UniversityManchesterUK
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Nilsson SF, Laursen TM, Andersen LH, Nordentoft M, Fazel S. Homelessness, psychiatric disorders, and violence in Denmark: a population-based cohort study. Lancet Public Health 2024; 9:e376-e385. [PMID: 38821684 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-2667(24)00096-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Homelessness is associated with adverse health and social outcomes. People experiencing homelessness have been found to have a high risk of violent crime victimisation as well as high prevalence of psychiatric disorders. It is poorly understood whether experiencing homelessness is associated with additional risks of violent offending and whether psychiatric disorders contribute to these risks. We examined the association between homelessness, psychiatric disorders, and first violence offence leading to conviction. METHODS We did a nationwide, register-based cohort study of all Danish residents who were alive at least 1 day during the study period, born between Jan 1, 1980, and Dec 31, 2006, and aged 15 years or older retrieved from the Danish Civil Registration System, which was linked to registers with information on homelessness, health care, and criminality. The exposure was any experience of homelessness, which was defined as having at least one contact with a homeless shelter during the study period. The outcome was first violent offence leading to a conviction. We calculated incidence rates per 10 000 person-years, incidence rate ratios (IRRs) using Poisson regression analysis, and probability of conviction of a violent offence using an Aalen-Johansen estimator. Analyses were stratified by sex and adjusted for calendar year of the study period, age, other sociodemographic factors, and psychiatric disorders. FINDINGS The study cohort included 1 786 433 Danish residents aged 15-42 years living in Denmark at some point from Jan 1, 2001, to Dec 31, 2021, contributing to 21 336 322 person-years at risk, of whom 57 084 (3·2%) individuals had their first violent offence leading to conviction during follow-up. 10 years after their first contact with a homeless shelter, 22·9% (95% CI 21·6-24·2) of men and 7·7% (6·8-8·7) of women had committed at least one violent crime leading to conviction. The fully adjusted IRRs of a violent offence leading to conviction were 4·8 (4·5-5·1) in men and 6·3 (5·6-7·2) in women experiencing homelessness compared with individuals who had not experienced homelessness. The IRR for a violent offence leading to conviction was highest in individuals experiencing homelessness and having co-occurring psychiatric disorders compared with those not experiencing homelessness and without co-occurring psychiatric disorders, especially drug use disorders (IRR in those experiencing homelessness and having a drug use disorder: 15·3 [14·1-16·7] in men and 40·1 [33·9-47·5] in women compared with individuals not experiencing homelessness and having no drug use disorder). INTERPRETATION Individuals experiencing homelessness had higher risks of a violent offence leading to conviction than those who had not experienced homelessness. In addition to preventing homelessness, public health and policy should consider how to reduce the risk of adverse outcomes in people experiencing homelessness. FUNDING Lundbeck Foundation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Feodor Nilsson
- Copenhagen Research Center for Mental Health, Copenhagen University Hospital, Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Thomas Munk Laursen
- The National Centre for Register-Based Research, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Merete Nordentoft
- Copenhagen Research Center for Mental Health, Copenhagen University Hospital, Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrated Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Seena Fazel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK
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Bockgård G, Mattsson E, von Essen L, Klarare A. Collaborative Interpretation of Researcher-Generated Photo-Elicitation Findings: Insights From Women With Lived Experience of Homelessness. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2024; 34:676-690. [PMID: 38235734 PMCID: PMC11103924 DOI: 10.1177/10497323231224330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Interviews with individuals experiencing homelessness can be challenging for various reasons, including mental and physical health issues, substance use, and negative experiences with authority figures. Researchers have used photos to facilitate communication and empower participants during data collection. We analyzed data from a previous study to explore the use of researcher-generated photos during interviews about health with 13 women experiencing homelessness. Conversation analysis revealed clear patterns regarding the use of the photos during the interviews. The photos were referred to 118 times over the total interview length, 6 hours and 23 minutes, with the interviewer making 62% of the referrals and the women accounting for 38%. Fifty-nine percent of the referrals occurred within the first 5 minutes of the interviews. The women used the photos to trigger associations and emotions, to describe photo content, or in a minor role during the interview. Interpretations from an advisory board of six women with lived experiences of homelessness suggested that the photos did not engage participants as intended, highlighting the importance of considering participants' perspectives when designing photo-elicitation methods. The feedback also provided valuable insights into interview locations and incentives in research that may have influenced the women's willingness to use the photos. This study emphasizes the importance of understanding the complexity of choosing researcher-generated photos in interviews with underserved, hard-to-reach populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustav Bockgård
- Department of Scandinavian Languages, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Elisabet Mattsson
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Healthcare Sciences and e-Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Marie Cederschiöld University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Louise von Essen
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Healthcare Sciences and e-Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anna Klarare
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Healthcare Sciences and e-Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Marie Cederschiöld University, Stockholm, Sweden
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Kennedy F, Ní Cheallaigh C, Romero-Ortuno R, Doyle SL, Broderick J. Outcomes of the LEAP feasibility trial-A low-threshold, exercise programme with protein supplementation to target frailty and poor physical functioning in people experiencing homelessness and addiction issues. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301926. [PMID: 38820432 PMCID: PMC11142616 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People experiencing homelessness are more likely to experience poor health with physical functioning deficits and frailty commonly reported. It is not well known how strategies to target physical functioning deficits and frailty work in practice in this group. The primary aim of this study was to explore the feasibility of an exercise intervention with protein supplementation to target physical functioning and frailty in people experiencing homelessness evaluated by recruitment and retention rates, adherence to the exercise sessions and protein supplement, adverse effects, programme feedback and characteristics of non-returners, sporadic and frequent attenders. The secondary aim was to evaluate changes in effectiveness outcomes of grip strength, muscle mass, lower extremity physical function, pain, frailty, and risk of malnutrition. METHOD This prospective single-arm study evaluated the feasibility of a 16-week rolling, low-threshold, 'drop-in' once weekly exercise programme with protein supplementation. The main recruitment site was a day-service centre for people who are homeless. Feasibility was assessed by the recruitment and retention rates, adherence to the exercise sessions and protein supplement as well as adverse effects, programme feedback and evaluation of characteristics of non-returners, sporadic (≤50% of available sessions) and frequent attenders (≥50% of available sessions). Effectiveness outcomes included pain (Visual Analogue Scale), physical functioning and performance (hand-grip dynamometry, limb circumference, the Short Physical Performance Battery), frailty (SHARE-FI and Clinical Frailty Scale) and nutritional status (Mini Nutritional Assessment). RESULTS Thirty-one participants were recruited mean (SD) age 45(16) years. There was a recruitment rate of a median (IQR) of 2(1-3) new participants per week. The retention rate was 45% (n = 14) to the main recruitment site. Adherence to the exercise sessions and nutritional intervention was 90% and 100% respectively. Three adverse events were recorded during 74 interventions over the 16-week programme. The acceptability of the programme was highlighted in participant feedback. Characteristics of frequent returners (≥50%) were older age, female, more stably housed and more stable in addiction. The programme did not induce any changes in effectiveness outcomes. CONCLUSION The feasibility of this programme was demonstrated. Overall, the programme was well received with higher retention rates in older participants, females, those more stably housed and those stable in addiction. A higher powered, more intense programme is needed to demonstrate programme effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Kennedy
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Clíona Ní Cheallaigh
- St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Roman Romero-Ortuno
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Discipline of Medical Gerontology, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Mercer’s Institute for Successful Ageing, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Suzanne L. Doyle
- School of Biological, Health and Sports Sciences, Technological University Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Julie Broderick
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Bax A, Middleton J. Homelessness is a health emergency: criminalising homeless people will only make it worse. BMJ 2024; 385:q1165. [PMID: 38789123 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.q1165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - John Middleton
- Wolverhampton University
- Global Network for Academic Public Health
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Khezri M, McKnight C, Weng CA, Kimball S, Des Jarlais D. COVID-19 vaccination uptake and determinants of booster vaccination among persons who inject drugs in New York City. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0303394. [PMID: 38743729 PMCID: PMC11093290 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0303394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persons who inject drugs (PWID) may be unengaged with healthcare services and face an elevated risk of severe morbidity and mortality associated with COVID-19 due to chronic diseases and structural inequities. However, data on COVID-19 vaccine uptake, particularly booster vaccination, among PWID are limited. We examined COVID-19 vaccine uptake and factors associated with booster vaccination among PWID in New York City (NYC). METHODS We recruited PWID using respondent-driven sampling from October 2021 to November 2023 in a survey that included HIV and SARS-CoV-2 antibodies testing. The questionnaire included demographics, COVID-19 vaccination and attitudes, and drug use behaviors. RESULTS Of 436 PWID, 80% received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose. Among individuals who received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose, 95% were fully vaccinated. After excluding participants recruited before booster authorization for general adults started in NYC, and those who had never received an initial vaccination, 41% reported having received a COVID-19 booster vaccine dose. COVID-19 booster vaccination was significantly associated with having a high school diploma or GED (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.93; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.09, 3.48), ever received the hepatitis A/B vaccine (aOR 2.23; 95% CI 1.27, 3.96), main drug use other than heroin/speedball, fentanyl and stimulants (aOR 14.4; 95% CI 2.32, 280), number of non-fatal overdoses (aOR 0.35; 95% CI 0.16, 0.70), and mean vaccination attitude score (aOR 0.94; 95% CI 0.89, 0.98). CONCLUSIONS We found a suboptimal level of COVID-19 booster vaccination among PWID, which was consistent with the rates observed in the general population in NYC and the U.S. Community-based interventions are needed to improve COVID-19 booster vaccination access and uptake among PWID. Attitudes towards vaccination were significant predictors of both primary and booster vaccination uptake. Outreach efforts focusing on improving attitudes towards vaccination and educational programs are essential for reducing hesitancy and increasing booster vaccination uptake among PWID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Khezri
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Courtney McKnight
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
- Center for Drug Use and HIV/HCV Research, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Chenziheng Allen Weng
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Sarah Kimball
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Don Des Jarlais
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
- Center for Drug Use and HIV/HCV Research, New York, NY, United States of America
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Radó N, Békási S, Győrffy Z. Health Technology Access and Peer Support Among Digitally Engaged People Experiencing Homelessness: Qualitative Study. JMIR Hum Factors 2024; 11:e55415. [PMID: 38743937 PMCID: PMC11134250 DOI: 10.2196/55415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the effects of digital health are receiving wide scientific attention, very little is known about the characteristics of digitally engaged people experiencing homelessness, especially in Central and Eastern Europe. Our previous research revealed a considerable level of internet use in the homeless population of Budapest, Hungary, for general purposes (350/662, 52.9%) and medical purposes (229/664, 34.6%). Moreover, a digitally engaged subgroup was identified (129/662, 19.5%). OBJECTIVE The aim of this exploratory study was to map out the resources, attitudes, and behaviors of digitally engaged homeless individuals in relation to digital technology to set the basis for potential health policy interventions, which will enable better access to health services through strengthening of the digital components of the existing health care system. METHODS Between August 18, 2022, and October 27, 2022, a total of 12 in-depth semistructured interviews were conducted in 4 homeless shelters in Budapest, Hungary. Upon analysis by 3 independent evaluators, 2 interviews were excluded. The interviewees were chosen based on purposive sampling with predefined inclusion criteria. Thematic analysis of the transcripts was conducted. RESULTS In the thematic analysis, 4 main themes (attitude, access, usage patterns, and solutions for usage problems) emerged. Health-related technology use mostly appeared in health information-seeking behavior. Online search for prescribed medications (5 interviews), active ingredients of medications (4 interviews), medicinal herbs believed to replace certain pills (2 interviews) or foods, and natural materials (1 interview) were mentioned. Moreover, mobile health app use (3 interviews) was reported. The intention to circumvent or check on mainstream health care solutions was mainly associated with previous negative experiences in the health care system. Several gaps in the daily use of technology were identified by the interviewees; however, more than half of the interviewees (6/10) turned out to be contact points for their peers for digital problem-solving or basic digital literacy skill enhancement in the homeless shelters. Furthermore, a lack of institutional support or special programs targeting senior clients was noted. CONCLUSIONS Digitally engaged homeless individuals might become mediators between their peers and comprehensive digital health programs. They have the trust of their peers, can recognize and harness the benefits of digital technology, and are able to provide meaningful help in technology- and usage-related issues through experience. Digital health services have great promise in community shelters for managing and preventing health issues, and digitally engaged individuals might be important for the success of such services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nóra Radó
- Institute of Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Health Center, Hungarian Charity Service of the Order of Malta, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Sándor Békási
- Institute of Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Health Center, Hungarian Charity Service of the Order of Malta, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsuzsa Győrffy
- Institute of Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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Goldstein SC, Newberger NG, Schick MR, Ferguson JJ, Collins SE, Haeny AM, Weiss NH. A systematic meta-epidemiologic review on nonabstinence-inclusive interventions for substance use: inclusion of race/ethnicity and sex assigned at birth/gender. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2024; 50:276-290. [PMID: 38411974 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2024.2308087] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Background: Minoritized racial/ethnic and sex assigned at birth/gender groups experience disproportionate substance-related harm. Focusing on reducing substance-related harm without requiring abstinence is a promising approach.Objectives: The purpose of this meta-epidemiologic systematic review was to examine inclusion of racial/ethnic and sex assigned at birth/gender in published studies of nonabstinence-inclusive interventions for substance use.Methods: We systematically searched databases (PubMed and PsycINFO) on May 26, 2022 following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) criteria. Articles were eligible for inclusion if they: 1) reported in English language, 2) had a primary goal of investigating a nonabstinence-inclusive intervention to address substance use, 3) used human subjects, and 4) only included adults aged 18 or older. Two coders screened initial articles and assessed eligibility criteria of full text articles. A third consensus rater reviewed all coding discrepancies. For the remaining full-length articles, an independent rater extracted information relevant to study goalsResults: The search strategy yielded 5,759 records. 235 included articles remained. Only 73 articles (31.1%) fully reported on both racial/ethnic and sex assigned at birth/gender, and only seven articles (3.0%) reported subgroup analyses examining treatment efficacy across minoritized groups. Nine articles (3.8%) mentioned inclusion and diversity regarding both racial/ethnic and sex assigned at birth/gender in their discussion and four articles (1.7%) broadly mentioned a lack of diversity in their limitationsConclusion: Findings highlight that little is known about nonabstinence-inclusive interventions to address substance use for individuals from minoritized racial/ethnic and sex assigned at birth/gender groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvi C Goldstein
- Department of Psychology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Noam G Newberger
- Department of Psychology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA
| | - Melissa R Schick
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Susan E Collins
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Angela M Haeny
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Nicole H Weiss
- Department of Psychology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA
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Kelly AM. Incontinence and homelessness. Br J Community Nurs 2024; 29:S52-S58. [PMID: 38728160 DOI: 10.12968/bjcn.2024.29.sup5.s52] [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] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
The fundamental principles of why specific people become homeless, can be grounded in a simple rationale or founded within sophisticated reasoning. For instance, people who suffer from substance abuse, addiction, alcohol, gambling, have mental health concerns or financial difficulties may be susceptible to homelessness. It is also identified that persons who experienced violence in their childhood or abuse by a partner are at a higher risk of becoming homeless. Homelessness knows no ethnic, cultural, religious or gender boundaries, and can impact all individuals' health and well-being. A health problem and worldwide phenomenon that affects all cohorts of the population, including the homeless, is urinary incontinence. The aim of this article is to increase the awareness of incontinence and highlight the impact it has on the lives of people that experience homelessness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Marie Kelly
- Clinical Nurse Specialist-Continence, Dublin South, Kildare and West Wicklow CHO, Elinor Lyons Building, Meath Campus, Heytesbury Street, Dublin 8
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Potter LC, Stone T, Swede J, Connell F, Cramer H, McGeown H, Carvalho M, Horwood J, Feder G, Farr M, Gaps B. Improving access to general practice for and with people with severe and multiple disadvantage: a qualitative study. Br J Gen Pract 2024; 74:e330-e338. [PMID: 38575183 PMCID: PMC11005924 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp.2023.0244] [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: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with severe and multiple disadvantage (SMD) who experience combinations of homelessness, substance misuse, violence, abuse, and poor mental health have high health needs and poor access to primary care. AIM To improve access to general practice for people with SMD by facilitating collaborative service improvement meetings between healthcare staff, people with lived experience of SMD, and those who support them; participants were then interviewed about this work. DESIGN AND SETTING The Bridging Gaps group is a collaboration between healthcare staff, researchers, women with lived experience of SMD, and a charity that supports them in a UK city. A project was co-produced by the Bridging Gaps group to improve access to general practice for people with SMD, which was further developed with three inner-city general practices. METHOD Nine service improvement meetings were facilitated at three general practices, and six of these were formally observed. Nine practice staff and four women with lived experience of SMD were interviewed. Three women with lived experience of SMD and one staff member who supports them participated in a focus group. Data were analysed inductively and deductively using thematic analysis. RESULTS By providing time and funding opportunities to motivated general practice staff and involving participants with lived experience of SMD, service changes were made in an effort to improve access for people with SMD. These included prioritising patients on an inclusion patient list with more flexible access, providing continuity for patients via a care coordinator and micro-team of clinicians, and developing an information-sharing document. The process and outcomes improved connections within and between general practices, support organisations, and people with SMD. CONCLUSION The co-designed strategies described in this study could be adapted locally and evaluated in other areas. Investing in this focused way of working may improve accessibility to health care, health equity, and staff wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy C Potter
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol
| | - Tracey Stone
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol; National Institute for Health and Care Research Applied Research Collaboration West, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol
| | | | | | - Helen Cramer
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol
| | - Helen McGeown
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol
| | | | - Jeremy Horwood
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol; National Institute for Health and Care Research Applied Research Collaboration West, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol
| | - Gene Feder
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol
| | - Michelle Farr
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol; National Institute for Health and Care Research Applied Research Collaboration West, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol
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21
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Rathod SD, Annand PJ, Hosseini P, Guise A, Platt L. Epidemiological features of depression and anxiety among homeless adults with healthcare access problems in London, UK: descriptive cross-sectional analysis. BJPsych Open 2024; 10:e93. [PMID: 38686447 PMCID: PMC11060085 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2024.34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In England in 2021, an estimated 274 000 people were homeless on a given night. It has long been recognised that physical and mental health of people who are homeless is poorer than for people who are housed. There are few peer-reviewed studies to inform health and social care for depression or anxiety among homeless adults in this setting. AIMS To measure the symptoms of depression and anxiety among adults who are homeless and who have difficulty accessing healthcare, and to describe distribution of symptoms across sociodemographic, social vulnerability and health-related characteristics. METHOD We completed structured questionnaires with 311 adults who were homeless and who had difficulty accessing healthcare in London, UK, between August and December 2021. We measured anxiety and depression symptoms using the 4-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4) score. We compared median PHQ-4 scores across strata of the sociodemographic, social vulnerability and health-related characteristics, and tested for associations using the Kruskal-Wallis test. RESULTS The median PHQ-4 score was 8 out of 12, and 40.2% had scores suggesting high clinical need. Although PHQ-4 scores were consistently high across a range of socioeconomic, social vulnerability and health-related characteristics, they were positively associated with: young age; food insecurity; recent and historic abuse; joint, bone or muscle problems; and frequency of marijuana use. The most common (60%) barrier to accessing healthcare related to transportation. CONCLUSIONS Adults who are homeless and have difficulty accessing healthcare have high levels of depression and anxiety symptoms. Our findings support consideration of population-level, multisectoral intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujit D. Rathod
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - P. J. Annand
- Department of Sociology, University of Surrey, UK
| | - Paniz Hosseini
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Andrew Guise
- Department of Population Health Sciences, King's College London, UK
| | - Lucy Platt
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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22
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Gaber SN, Rydeman IB, Mattsson E, Kneck Å. Asking about violence and abuse among patients experiencing homelessness: a focus group study with healthcare professionals. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:531. [PMID: 38671423 PMCID: PMC11046839 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10914-3] [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: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People experiencing homelessness are at increased risk of violence and abuse, however, there is insufficient knowledge about rates of inquiry or readiness of healthcare professionals to address violence and abuse among this population. This study aimed to explore healthcare professionals' experiences and perceptions of asking about violence and abuse among patients experiencing homelessness. METHODS This study used a qualitative, interpretive, and exploratory design. We performed focus group discussions with healthcare professionals (n = 22) working at an integrative healthcare unit for people experiencing homelessness. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis, following Braun and Clarke's six-phase approach. Findings are reported according to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist. RESULTS The overarching theme of the analysis is that addressing violence and abuse is at risk of "falling through the cracks". The theme is supported by three sub-themes: Hesitance to address violence and abuse, The complex dynamics of violence and abuse in homelessness, and Challenges in addressing violence and abuse amidst competing priorities and collaborative efforts. The normalisation of violence and abuse within the context of homelessness perpetuates a "cycle" where the severity and urgency of addressing violence and abuse are overlooked or minimised, hindering effective interventions. Moreover, healthcare professionals themselves may inadvertently contribute to this normalisation. The hesitance expressed by healthcare professionals in addressing the issue further reinforces the prevailing belief that violence and abuse are inherent aspects of homelessness. This normalisation within the healthcare system adds another layer of complexity to addressing these issues effectively. CONCLUSIONS The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions and coordinated efforts that not only address the immediate physical needs of people experiencing homelessness but also challenge and reshape the normalised perceptions surrounding violence and abuse. By prioritising awareness, education, and supportive interventions, we can begin to "break the cycle" and provide a safer environment where violence and abuse are not accepted or overlooked.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Nadia Gaber
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Marie Cederschiöld University, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Healthcare Sciences and e-Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Ing-Britt Rydeman
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Marie Cederschiöld University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elisabet Mattsson
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Marie Cederschiöld University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Healthcare Sciences and e-Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Åsa Kneck
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Marie Cederschiöld University, Stockholm, Sweden
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Miller JP, Hutton J, Doherty C, Vallesi S, Currie J, Rushworth K, Larkin M, Scott M, Morrow J, Wood L. A scoping review examining patient experience and what matters to people experiencing homelessness when seeking healthcare. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:492. [PMID: 38643146 PMCID: PMC11031864 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10971-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Homelessness is associated with significant health disparities. Conventional health services often fail to address the unique needs and lived experience of homeless individuals and fail to include participatory design when planning health services. This scoping review aimed to examine areas of patient experience that are most frequently reported by people experiencing homelessness when seeking and receiving healthcare, and to identify existing surveys used to measure patient experience for this cohort. METHODS A scoping review was undertaken reported according to the PRISMA-ScR 2020 Statement. Databases were searched on 1 December 2022: MEDLINE, EMBASE, APA PsychINFO and CINAHL. Included studies focused on people experiencing homelessness, healthcare services and patient experience, primary research, published in English from 2010. Qualitative papers and findings were extracted and synthesized against a modified framework based on the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines for care for people experiencing homelessness, the Institute of Medicine Framework and Lachman's multidimensional quality model. People with lived experience of homelessness were employed as part of the research team. RESULTS Thirty-two studies were included. Of these, 22 were qualitative, seven quantitative and three mixed methods, from the United States of America (n = 17), United Kingdom (n = 5), Australia (n = 5) and Canada (n = 4). Health services ranged from primary healthcare to outpatient management, acute care, emergency care and hospital based healthcare. In qualitative papers, the domains of 'accessible and timely', 'person-centred', and values of 'dignity and respect' and 'kindness with compassion' were most prevalent. Among the three patient experience surveys identified, 'accessible and timely' and 'person-centred' were the most frequent domains. The least frequently highlighted domains and values were 'equitable' and 'holistic'. No questions addressed the 'safety' domain. CONCLUSIONS The Primary Care Quality-Homeless questionnaire best reflected the priorities for healthcare provision that were highlighted in the qualitative studies of people experiencing homelessness. The most frequently cited domains and values that people experiencing homelessness expressed as important when seeking healthcare were reflected in each of the three survey tools to varying degrees. Findings suggest that the principles of 'Kindness and compassion' require further emphasis when seeking feedback on healthcare experiences and the domains of 'safety', 'equitable', and 'efficiency' are not adequately represented in existing patient experience surveys.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennie Hutton
- St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
- The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
- Victorian Virtual Emergency Department, Northern Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | | | | | - Jane Currie
- Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | | | - Matthew Scott
- St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Lived Experience Representative, Melbourne, Australia
| | - James Morrow
- Lived Experience Representative, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lisa Wood
- The University of Notre Dame Australia, Perth, Australia
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24
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Dawes J, Rogans-Watson R, Broderick J. 'You can change your life through sports'-physical activity interventions to improve the health and well-being of adults experiencing homelessness: a mixed-methods systematic review. Br J Sports Med 2024; 58:444-458. [PMID: 38413132 PMCID: PMC11041619 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2023-107562] [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: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Systematically synthesise evidence of physical activity interventions for people experiencing homelessness (PEH). DESIGN Mixed-methods systematic review. DATA SOURCES EMBASE, Web of Science, CINAHL, PubMed (MEDLINE), PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus and Cochrane Library, searched from inception to October 2022. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA PICO framework: population (quantitative/qualitative studies of PEH from high-income countries); intervention (physical activity); comparison (with/without comparator) and outcome (any health/well-being-related outcome). The risk of bias was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools. RESULTS 3615 records were screened, generating 18 reports (17 studies, 11 qualitative and 6 quantitative (1 randomised controlled trial, 4 quasi-experimental, 1 analytical cross-sectional)) from the UK, USA, Denmark and Australia, including 554 participants (516 PEH, 38 staff). Interventions included soccer (n=7), group exercise (indoor (n=3), outdoor (n=5)) and individual activities (n=2). The risk of bias assessment found study quality to vary; with 6 being high, 6 moderate, 4 low and 1 very low. A mixed-methods synthesis identified physical and mental health benefits. Qualitative evidence highlighted benefits carried into wider life, the challenges of participating and the positive impact of physical activity on addiction. Qualitative and quantitative evidence was aligned demonstrating the mental health benefits of outdoor exercise and increased physical activity from indoor group exercise. Quantitative evidence also suggests improved musculoskeletal health, cardiovascular fitness, postural balance and blood lipid markers (p<0.05). CONCLUSION Qualitative evidence suggests that physical activity interventions for PEH can benefit health and well-being with positive translation to wider life. There was limited positive quantitative evidence, although most was inconclusive. Although the evidence suggests a potential recommendation for physical activity interventions for PEH, results may not be transferable outside high-income countries. Further research is required to determine the effectiveness and optimal programme design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo Dawes
- Department of Epidemiology & Public Health, UCL, London, UK
| | | | - Julie Broderick
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Ball MAZ, Sack DE, Druffner SA, Jones I, Wrenn JO, Sexton MM, Shinn M, Hess JJ. Characteristics and Health Care Utilization of Patients With Housing Insecurity in the ED. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e248565. [PMID: 38669017 PMCID: PMC11053378 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.8565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Unstable housing and homelessness can exacerbate adverse health outcomes leading to increased risk of chronic disease, injury, and disability. However, emergency departments (EDs) have no universal method to identify those at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness. Objective To describe the extent of housing insecurity among patients who seek care in an urban ED, including chief concerns, demographics, and patterns of health care utilization. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study included all adult patients presenting to the ED at Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC), an urban tertiary care, level I trauma center in the Southeast US, from January 5 to May 16, 2023. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was the proportion of ED visits at which patients screened positive for housing insecurity. Secondary outcomes included prevalence of insecurity by chief concerns, demographics, and patterns of health care utilization. Results Of all 23 795 VUMC ED visits with screenings for housing insecurity (12 465 visits among women [52%]; median age, 47 years [IQR, 32-48 years]), in 1185 (5%), patients screened positive for current homelessness or housing insecurity (660 unique patients); at 22 610 visits (95%), the screening result was negative. Of visits with positive results, the median age of patients was 46 years (IQR, 36-55 years) and 829 (70%) were among male patients. Suicide and intoxication were more common chief concerns among visits at which patients screened positive (132 [11%] and 118 [10%], respectively) than among those at which patients screened negative (220 [1%] and 335 [2%], respectively). Visits with positive results were more likely to be among patients who were uninsured (395 [33%] vs 2272 [10%]) and had multiple visits during the study period. A higher proportion of positive screening results occurred between 8 pm and 6 am. The social work team assessed patients at 919 visits (78%) with positive screening results. Conclusions and Relevance In this cross-sectional study of 23 795 ED visits, at 5% of visits, patients screened positive for housing insecurity and were more likely to present with a chief concern of suicide, to be uninsured, and to have multiple visits during the study period. This analysis provides a call for other institutions to introduce screening and create tailored care plans for patients experiencing housing insecurity to achieve equitable health care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel E. Sack
- Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | | | - Ian Jones
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Jesse O. Wrenn
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Mitchell M. Sexton
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Marybeth Shinn
- Vanderbilt University Peabody College, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Jennifer J. Hess
- Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
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Rosenblad AK, Klarare A, Rapaport P, Mattsson E, Gaber SN. Health literacy and its association with mental and spiritual well-being among women experiencing homelessness. Health Promot Int 2024; 39:daae019. [PMID: 38430507 PMCID: PMC10908353 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daae019] [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] [Indexed: 03/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Low health literacy (HL) has been linked to low self-rated health, reduced efficacy of behaviour change, and challenges in preventing, treating, or managing health conditions. People experiencing homelessness are at risk of poor HL; however, few studies have investigated HL in relation to mental and spiritual well-being among people experiencing homelessness in general, or women experiencing homelessness specifically. This cross-sectional study of 46 women experiencing homelessness in Stockholm, Sweden, recruited during the period October 2019-December 2020, aimed to examine how HL was associated with mental and spiritual well-being among women experiencing homelessness. Participants answered questions about socio-demographic characteristics (age, length of homelessness, education) and digital technology (mobile phone/the Internet) use, in addition to Swedish language versions of three questionnaires administered through structured, face-to-face interviews: the Communicative and Critical Health Literacy Scale, the General Health Questionnaire 12 and the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Spiritual Well-Being. Data were analysed using linear regression, which revealed statistically significant associations between HL and mental well-being (p = .009), and between HL and spiritual well-being (p = .022). However, neither socio-demographic characteristics nor digital technology use were significantly associated with HL. In conclusion, promoting HL may improve mental and spiritual well-being in this vulnerable population. An advisory board of women with lived experiences of homelessness (n = 5) supported the interpretation of the findings and emphasised the need to consider HL in relation to basic needs such as 'housing first'. Moreover, health information and services should be accessible to people with different degrees of HL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Karlsson Rosenblad
- Department of Statistics, Uppsala University, Box 513, 751 20, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Clinical Diabetology and Metabolism, Uppsala University, Akademiska sjukhuset, 751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Family Medicine and Primary Care, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Klarare
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Healthcare Services and e-Health, Uppsala University, Akademiska sjukhuset, 751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Healthcare Sciences, Marie Cederschiöld University, Box 11189, 100 61, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Penny Rapaport
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, Maple House, W1T 7BN, London, UK
| | - Elisabet Mattsson
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Healthcare Services and e-Health, Uppsala University, Akademiska sjukhuset, 751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Healthcare Sciences, Marie Cederschiöld University, Box 11189, 100 61, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sophie Nadia Gaber
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Healthcare Services and e-Health, Uppsala University, Akademiska sjukhuset, 751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Healthcare Sciences, Marie Cederschiöld University, Box 11189, 100 61, Stockholm, Sweden
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Macfarlane S, Haigh F, Woodland L, Goodger B, Larkin M, Miller E, Parcsi L, Read P, Wood L. Critical Success Factors for Intersectoral Collaboration: Homelessness and COVID-19 - Case Studies and Learnings from an Australian City. Int J Integr Care 2024; 24:19. [PMID: 38828122 PMCID: PMC11141504 DOI: 10.5334/ijic.7653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic disproportionally impacted people experiencing homelessness, including people sleeping rough, people in temporary accommodation and those living in boarding houses. This paper reports on intersectoral responses across six health and social care agencies in Inner Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Prior to the pandemic the six agencies had established an Intersectoral Homelessness Health Strategy (IHHS), in recognition of the need for intersectoral collaboration to address the complex health needs of people experiencing homelessness. Description The governance structure of the IHHS provided a platform for several innovative intersectoral responses to the pandemic. A realist informed framework was used to select, describe, and analyse case studies of intersectoral collaboration. Discussion The resultant six critical success factors (trust, shared ways of working, agile collaboration, communication mechanisms, authorising environment, and sustained momentum), align with the existing literature that explores effective intersectoral collaboration in complex health or social care settings. This paper goes further by describing intersectoral collaboration 'in action', setting a strong foundation for future collaborative initiatives. Conclusion While there is no single right approach to undertaking intersectoral collaboration, which is highly context specific, the six critical success factors identified could be applied to other health issues where dynamic collaboration and integration of healthcare is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fiona Haigh
- Centre for Primary Health Care and Equity (CPHCE), University of New South Wales Sydney, Australia
- Health Equity Research and Development Unit (HERDU), A unit of Clinical Services Integration and Population Health, Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lisa Woodland
- South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
| | - Brendan Goodger
- Central Eastern Sydney Primary Health Network, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Erin Miller
- Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lisa Parcsi
- Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
| | - Phillip Read
- South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lisa Wood
- Institute for Health Research, University of Notre Dame, Freemantle, Australia
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Rutt L, Springer V, Geib K, Middlekauff E, San E, Eby J. Occupational Justice: Staff Member's Understanding of the Role of Occupational Therapy within Organizations Serving Persons Experiencing Homelessness. Occup Ther Health Care 2024; 38:400-413. [PMID: 37916783 DOI: 10.1080/07380577.2023.2243512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this descriptive study was to explore the understanding of occupational justice and occupational therapy's role among staff members working within organizations serving persons experiencing homelessness. A survey was developed to determine if staff (N = 43) understood what occupational therapists can do to help persons experiencing homelessness. Responses were split almost equally between agree/strongly agree and disagree/strongly disagree. Most or 95% (n = 38) of respondents stated their organization would be interested in increasing programming to support the ideas of occupational justice. This suggests that occupational therapy can fill a need in these organizations to promote occupational justice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne Rutt
- Master of Occupational Therapy, Messiah University, Mechanicsburg, PA, USA
| | - V Springer
- Master of Occupational Therapy, Messiah University, Mechanicsburg, PA, USA
| | - K Geib
- Master of Occupational Therapy, Messiah University, Mechanicsburg, PA, USA
| | - E Middlekauff
- Master of Occupational Therapy, Messiah University, Mechanicsburg, PA, USA
| | - E San
- Master of Occupational Therapy, Messiah University, Mechanicsburg, PA, USA
| | - J Eby
- Master of Occupational Therapy, Messiah University, Mechanicsburg, PA, USA
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29
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Favril L, Rich JD, Hard J, Fazel S. Mental and physical health morbidity among people in prisons: an umbrella review. Lancet Public Health 2024; 9:e250-e260. [PMID: 38553144 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-2667(24)00023-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who experience incarceration are characterised by poor health profiles. Clarification of the disease burden in the prison population can inform service and policy development. We aimed to synthesise and assess the evidence regarding the epidemiology of mental and physical health conditions among people in prisons worldwide. METHODS In this umbrella review, five bibliographic databases (Web of Science, PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, and Global Health) were systematically searched from inception to identify meta-analyses published up to Oct 31, 2023, which examined the prevalence or incidence of mental and physical health conditions in general prison populations. We excluded meta-analyses that examined health conditions in selected or clinical prison populations. Prevalence data were extracted from published reports and study authors were contacted for additional information. Estimates were synthesised and stratified by sex, age, and country income level. The robustness of the findings was assessed in terms of heterogeneity, excess significance bias, small-study effects, and review quality. The study protocol was pre-registered with PROSPERO, CRD42023404827. FINDINGS Our search of the literature yielded 1909 records eligible for screening. 1736 articles were excluded and 173 full-text reports were examined for eligibility. 144 articles were then excluded due to not meeting inclusion criteria, which resulted in 29 meta-analyses eligible for inclusion. 12 of these were further excluded because they examined the same health condition. We included data from 17 meta-analyses published between 2002 and 2023. In adult men and women combined, the 6-month prevalence was 11·4% (95% CI 9·9-12·8) for major depression, 9·8% (6·8-13·2) for post-traumatic stress disorder, and 3·7% (3·2-4·1) for psychotic illness. On arrival to prison, 23·8% (95% CI 21·0-26·7) of people met diagnostic criteria for alcohol use disorder and 38·9% (31·5-46·2) for drug use disorder. Half of those with major depression or psychotic illness had a comorbid substance use disorder. Infectious diseases were also common; 17·7% (95% CI 15·0-20·7) of people were antibody-positive for hepatitis C virus, with lower estimates (ranging between 2·6% and 5·2%) found for hepatitis B virus, HIV, and tuberculosis. Meta-regression analyses indicated significant differences in prevalence by sex and country income level, albeit not consistent across health conditions. The burden of non-communicable chronic diseases was only examined in adults aged 50 years and older. Overall, the quality of the evidence was limited by high heterogeneity and small-study effects. INTERPRETATION People in prisons have a specific pattern of morbidity that represents an opportunity for public health to address. In particular, integrating prison health within the national public health system, adequately resourcing primary care and mental health services, and improving linkage with post-release health services could affect public health and safety. Population-based longitudinal studies are needed to clarify the extent to which incarceration affects health. FUNDING Research Foundation-Flanders, Wellcome Trust, National Institutes of Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Favril
- Institute for International Research on Criminal Policy, Faculty of Law and Criminology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Josiah D Rich
- Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | | | - Seena Fazel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK.
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30
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van Hest N, Brothers TD, Williamson A, Lewer D. Health-care resource use among patients who use illicit opioids in England, 2010-20: A descriptive matched cohort study. Addiction 2024; 119:730-740. [PMID: 38049387 DOI: 10.1111/add.16401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS People who use illicit opioids have higher mortality and morbidity than the general population. Limited quantitative research has investigated how this population engages with health-care, particularly regarding planned and primary care. We aimed to measure health-care use among patients with a history of illicit opioid use in England across five settings: general practice (GP), hospital outpatient care, emergency departments, emergency hospital admissions and elective hospital admissions. DESIGN This was a matched cohort study using Clinical Practice Research Datalink and Hospital Episode Statistics. SETTING Primary and secondary care practices in England took part in the study. PARTICIPANTS A total of 57 421 patients with a history of illicit opioid use were identified by GPs between 2010 and 2020, and 172 263 patients with no recorded history of illicit opioid use matched by age, sex and practice. MEASUREMENTS We estimated the rate (events per unit of time) of attendance and used quasi-Poisson regression (unadjusted and adjusted) to estimate rate ratios between groups. We also compared rates of planned and unplanned hospital admissions for diagnoses and calculated excess admissions and rate ratios between groups. FINDINGS A history of using illicit opioids was associated with higher rates of health-care use in all settings. Rate ratios for those with a history of using illicit opioids relative to those without were 2.38 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.36-2.41] for GP; 1.99 (95% CI = 1.94-2.03) for hospital outpatient visits; 2.80 (95% CI = 2.73-2.87) for emergency department visits; 4.98 (95% CI = 4.82-5.14) for emergency hospital admissions; and 1.76 (95% CI = 1.60-1.94) for elective hospital admissions. For emergency hospital admissions, diagnoses with the most excess admissions were drug-related and respiratory conditions, and those with the highest rate ratios were personality and behaviour (25.5, 95% CI = 23.5-27.6), drug-related (21.2, 95% CI = 20.1-21.6) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (19.4, 95% CI = 18.7-20.2). CONCLUSIONS Patients who use illicit opioids in England appear to access health services more often than people of the same age and sex who do not use illicit opioids among a wide range of health-care settings. The difference is especially large for emergency care, which probably reflects both episodic illness and decompensation of long-term conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi van Hest
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Thomas D Brothers
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Andrea Williamson
- School of Health and Wellbeing, MVLS, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Dan Lewer
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, London, UK
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bradford, UK
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Segala FV, Novara R, Panico G, Laforgia R, Raho L, Schiavone M, Civile G, Laforgia N, Di Gregorio S, Guido G, Cormio M, Dargenio A, Papagni R, L’Erario A, L’Erario L, Totaro V, Spada V, Valentini L, Frallonardo L, Lattanzio R, Falanga C, Putoto G, Saracino A, Di Gennaro F. Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections and Predictors for Loss to Follow Up among Marginalized Homeless and Migrant Communities: a Cross-Sectional Study. Ann Glob Health 2024; 90:25. [PMID: 38618272 PMCID: PMC11012089 DOI: 10.5334/aogh.4388] [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: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In Europe and Italy, marginalized communities have a higher risk for both contracting sexually transmitted infections (STI) and progressing towards adverse outcomes. Objectives This study focuses on the screening of HIV, HBV, HCV, and syphilis among homeless individuals and agricultural migrant workers living in Apulia, Italy. It aims to assess STI prevalence and investigate factors that might hinder return to collect test results. In addition, it explores STI knowledge, attitudes, and practices among these vulnerable populations. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted from September 1, 2022, to September 30, 2023. Participants were recruited from community health centers and migrant camps. Blood tests for HBV, HCV, HIV, and syphilis were performed, and Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) survey were conducted via face-to-face interviews. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were used to assess factors influencing the return for test results. Results A total of 149 persons were recruited, including 64 agricultural migrant workers and 85 homeless people. Overall, 24.8% (n = 37) tested positive for at least one infection, and only 50.3% (n = 75) of the screened participants returned to collect their test results. Significant disparities in STI knowledge and healthcare access were observed between the two populations, with only 14.1% (n = 9) of migrants having access to primary healthcare. At multivariable analysis, the strongest predictor for not returning for test results was being positive for HCV. Conclusions Among homeless people and agricultural migrant workers, STI prevalence was high, and only half of the population returned to collect test results. The study underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions and policy reevaluation to address healthcare disparities in marginalized communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Vladimiro Segala
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Roberta Novara
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Panico
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | | | - Lucia Raho
- Doctors with Africa CUAMM, 70123 Bari, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Civile
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Di Gregorio
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Giacomo Guido
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Mariangela Cormio
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Angelo Dargenio
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Roberta Papagni
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Angelo L’Erario
- Diagnostic Laboratory: Laboratorio analisi Dott.ssa Dell’Olio Nunzia, Trani, Italy
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca L’Erario
- Diagnostic Laboratory: Laboratorio analisi Dott.ssa Dell’Olio Nunzia, Trani, Italy
| | - Valentina Totaro
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Vito Spada
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Lauriana Valentini
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Luisa Frallonardo
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Rossana Lattanzio
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | | | | | - Annalisa Saracino
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Di Gennaro
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
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Druckrey-Fiskaaen KT, Vold JH, Madebo T, Midgard H, Dalgard O, Leiva RA, Fadnes LT. Liver stiffness and associated risk factors among people with a history of injecting drugs: a prospective cohort study. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2024; 19:21. [PMID: 38532435 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-024-00603-z] [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: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persons with opioid use disorders (OUD) and persons with substance use disorders (SUD) who inject substances have a reduced life expectancy of up to 25 years compared with the general population. Chronic liver diseases are a substantial cause of this. Screening strategies based on liver stiffness measurements (LSM) may facilitate early detection, timely intervention, and treatment of liver disease. This study aims to investigate the extent of chronic liver disease measured with transient elastography and the association between LSM and various risk factors, including substance use patterns, hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, alcohol use, body mass index, age, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol among people with OUD or with SUD who inject substances. METHODS Data was collected from May 2017 to March 2022 in a cohort of 676 persons from Western Norway. The cohort was recruited from two populations: Persons receiving opioid agonist therapy (OAT) (81% of the sample) or persons with SUD injecting substances but not receiving OAT. All participants were assessed at least once with transient elastography. A linear mixed model was performed to assess the impact of risk factors such as HCV infection, alcohol use, lifestyle-associated factors, and substance use on liver stiffness at baseline and over time. Baseline was defined as the time of the first liver stiffness measurement. The results are presented as coefficients (in kilopascal (kPa)) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS At baseline, 12% (n = 83) of the study sample had LSM suggestive of advanced chronic liver disease (LSM ≥ 10 kPa). Advanced age (1.0 kPa per 10 years increments, 95% CI: 0.68;1.3), at least weekly alcohol use (1.3, 0.47;2.1), HCV infection (1.2, 0.55;1.9), low HDL cholesterol level (1.4, 0.64;2.2), and higher body mass index (0.25 per increasing unit, 0.17;0.32) were all significantly associated with higher LSM at baseline. Compared with persistent chronic HCV infection, a resolved HCV infection predicted a yearly reduction of LSM (-0.73, -1.3;-0.21) from baseline to the following liver stiffness measurement. CONCLUSIONS More than one-tenth of the participants in this study had LSM suggestive of advanced chronic liver disease. It underscores the need for addressing HCV infection and reducing lifestyle-related liver risk factors, such as metabolic health factors and alcohol consumption, to prevent the advancement of liver fibrosis or cirrhosis in this particular population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl Trygve Druckrey-Fiskaaen
- Bergen Addiction Research, Department of Addiction Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway.
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Jørn Henrik Vold
- Bergen Addiction Research, Department of Addiction Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Division of Psychiatry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Tesfaye Madebo
- Bergen Addiction Research, Department of Addiction Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Håvard Midgard
- Department of Gastroenterology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Olav Dalgard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
| | | | - Lars T Fadnes
- Bergen Addiction Research, Department of Addiction Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Banerjee S, Yassin M, Dyer WT, Thomas TW, Rodriguez LA, Schmittdiel J. Hospital Readmissions Among Patients Experiencing Homelessness: An Electronic Health Record Data Study. Perm J 2024; 28:55-61. [PMID: 38108331 PMCID: PMC10940252 DOI: 10.7812/tpp/23.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Population-level tracking of hospital use patterns with integrated care organizations in patients experiencing homelessness has been difficult. A California law implemented in 2019 (Senate Bill 1152) aimed to ensure safety for this population after discharge from the hospital by requiring additional documentation for patients experiencing homelessness, which provides an opportunity to evaluate hospital use by this population. METHODS In a large integrated health system in California, patients experiencing homelessness were identified through documentation change requirements associated with this law and compared with a matched group from the general population. RESULTS Patients experiencing homelessness had increased rates of hospital readmission after discharge compared to the general population matched on demographics and medical comorbidity in 2019 and 2020. Any address change in the prior year for patients was associated with increased odds of emergency department readmission. Patients experiencing homelessness, both enrolled in an integrated delivery system and not, were successfully identified as having higher readmission rates compared with their housed counterparts. CONCLUSION Documentation of housing status following Senate Bill 1152 has enabled improved study of hospital use among those with housing instability. Understanding patterns of hospital use in this vulnerable group will help practitioners identify timely points of intervention for further social and health care support.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maher Yassin
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Wendy T Dyer
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Tainayah W Thomas
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Luis A Rodriguez
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Julie Schmittdiel
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, CA, USA
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Dawes J, Walters K, Frost R, Bagkeris E, Burton A, Hertzberg D, Hayward A. Prevalence, risks and outcomes of frailty in People Experiencing Homelessness: a protocol for secondary analysis of Health Needs Audit data. NIHR OPEN RESEARCH 2024; 4:9. [PMID: 39238901 PMCID: PMC11375403 DOI: 10.3310/nihropenres.13545.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
Frailty describes a health state related to ageing where people become less resilient to health challenges and more likely to have adverse outcomes if they become unwell. People experiencing homelessness (PEH) are known to have poor health, with research suggesting that many become frail at a younger age than the general population. Previous research using small-scale primary data collection suggests that the prevalence of frailty in homeless populations varies widely (16-55%), with variations in sample sizes and settings partially accounting for differences in current estimates. The prevalence, risks, and outcomes of frailty in PEH are poorly understood. We propose to carry out a secondary analysis of existing health survey data collected from 2,792 PEH. This will involve creating a Frailty Index (FI) to identify frail people within the dataset. Regression analyses will be used to identify associations between potential risk factors and outcomes of frailty in this population. This protocol will: 1) Outline the creation of a FI to assess the frailty prevalence within a dataset of health information collected from a cohort of PEH and 2) Describe proposed methods of regression analysis for identification of associations between frailty and risks factors/outcomes of frailty in the cohort of PEH within the dataset. The processes described in this paper can inform future development of FIs in other datasets. It is expected that the FI created will be an appropriate and robust method for identifying frailty in a cohort of PEH and results of the secondary data analysis will provide a more robust estimate of the associations between frailty and risk factors/outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo Dawes
- Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
| | - Kate Walters
- Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Rachael Frost
- Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Emmanouil Bagkeris
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Alexandra Burton
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
| | | | - Andrew Hayward
- Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
- United Kingdom Health Security Agency, London, UK
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35
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van Loenen T, Sow J, van den Muijsenbergh M. The collateral damage of the COVID-19 pandemic on homeless people in the Netherlands; a qualitative study on the impact of health and care. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1305834. [PMID: 38515983 PMCID: PMC10954826 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1305834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction People experiencing homelessness, also in the Netherlands, experience poorer physical and mental health compared to the general population and suffer from unmet health needs that are strongly related to their unfavorable social situation. This makes them especially vulnerable to negative consequences of a public health emergency such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This qualitative study aims to provide insight into the experiences of people experiencing homelessness with the impact of the pandemic on their health and lives. Methods We performed semistructured interviews at 3 different times in the first 2 years of the pandemic including, respectively, 67, 55, and 53 persons. Interviews focused on their experienced mental and physical health, their experiences with the public health measures taken, and the care they received during the pandemic. Results In each round of interviews, the self-reported mental health was lower than before. In the last round approximately half felt mentally unhealthy. Mental health was negatively impacted due to livelihood insecurity, loss of social contact and poor accessibility to social and medical care. Twenty-four hour shelter locations with smaller dormitories had a positive impact on mental health. Conclusion and recommendations Most preventive measures taken during the pandemic negatively impacted the mental health of people experiencing homelessness but some improved their health. We recommend special attention to the effects on mental health when planning measures for pandemic control and we recommend to implement 24-h shelter and smaller dormitories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa van Loenen
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Pharos, Centre of Expertise on Health Disparities, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Jeyna Sow
- Pharos, Centre of Expertise on Health Disparities, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Maria van den Muijsenbergh
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Pharos, Centre of Expertise on Health Disparities, Utrecht, Netherlands
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Blumberg MJ, Petersson AM, Jones PW, Jones AA, Panenka WJ, Leonova O, Vila-Rodriguez F, Lang DJ, Barr AM, MacEwan GW, Buchanan T, Honer WG, Gicas KM. Differential sensitivity of intraindividual variability dispersion and global cognition in the prediction of functional outcomes and mortality in precariously housed and homeless adults. Clin Neuropsychol 2024:1-24. [PMID: 38444068 DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2024.2325167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine cognitive intraindividual variability (IIV) dispersion as a predictor of everyday functioning and mortality in persons who are homeless or precariously housed. METHOD Participants were 407 community-dwelling adults, followed for up to 13 years. Neurocognition was assessed at baseline and IIV dispersion was derived using a battery of standardized tests. Functional outcomes (social, physical) were obtained at baseline and last follow-up. Mortality was confirmed with Coroner's reports and hospital records (N = 103 deaths). Linear regressions were used to predict current social and physical functioning from IIV dispersion. Repeated measures Analysis of Covariance were used to predict long-term change in functioning. Cox regression models examined the relation between IIV dispersion and mortality. Covariates included global cognition (i.e. mean-level performance), age, education, and physical comorbidities. RESULTS Higher IIV dispersion predicted poorer current physical functioning (B = -0.46 p = .010), while higher global cognition predicted better current (B = 0.21, p = .015) and change in social functioning over a period of up to 13 years (F = 4.23, p = .040). Global cognition, but not IIV dispersion, predicted mortality in individuals under 55 years old (HR = 0.50, p = .013). CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that indices of neurocognitive functioning (i.e. IIV dispersion and global cognition) may be differentially related to discrete dimensions of functional outcomes in an at-risk population. IIV dispersion may be a complimentary marker of emergent physical health dysfunction in precariously housed adults and may be best used in conjunction with traditional neuropsychological indices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna M Petersson
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
| | - Paul W Jones
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
| | - Andrea A Jones
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - William J Panenka
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Olga Leonova
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Donna J Lang
- Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Alasdair M Barr
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - G William MacEwan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Tari Buchanan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - William G Honer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Kristina M Gicas
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of the Fraser Valley, Abbotsford, Canada
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Vauhkonen P, Oura P, Kriikku P, Mäyränpää MI, Lindroos K. Association of anabolic androgenic steroid use with perimortem polypharmacy, antemortem prescription drug use, and utilization of health care services - A Finnish triple register study of forensic autopsy cases. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 356:111947. [PMID: 38290417 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.111947] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) use has previously been associated with complex polysubstance use that may increase morbidity and mortality among these individuals. In this study we aimed to further describe the features of perimortem polysubstance use, antemortem central nervous system (CNS) drug use and health care service utilization of AAS using males that suffer premature death. The main sample included all cases that were screened for AAS in connection with forensic autopsy between 2016-2019 and tested positive (n = 16). The control samples included autopsy cases that were screened for AAS but tested negative (n = 30) and randomly selected, age and sex matched autopsy cases not suspected of having used AAS but were otherwise fully toxicologically investigated (n = 43). Postmortem toxicological results were used for perimortem polysubstance use prevalence and severity estimation. Antemortem CNS drug use was calculated from a national register of reimbursed prescription medicines, and health care utilization from public health care registers, covering the last five years of life. Perimortem polysubstance use was prevalent in all groups, but the AAS positive had a tendency for greater CNS drug polypharmacy and the highest number of antemortem CNS drug purchases during the last five years of life, with a median of 14.5 purchases/person, vs. 1/person in the AAS negative and 0/person in the random group (Kruskal-Wallis H test, p < .001). Yearly medical contacts increased in all groups as death approached. Our findings suggest that prescription CNS drug use may play a significant role in polysubstance use disorders of AAS using males that suffer premature death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Vauhkonen
- Forensic Medicine Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30 (Mannerheimintie 166), FI-00271 Helsinki, Finland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 63 (Haartmaninkatu 3), FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Petteri Oura
- Forensic Medicine Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30 (Mannerheimintie 166), FI-00271 Helsinki, Finland; Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 21 (Haartmaninkatu 3), FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pirkko Kriikku
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 21 (Haartmaninkatu 3), FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; Forensic Toxicology Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, 00271 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mikko Ilari Mäyränpää
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 21 (Haartmaninkatu 3), FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; Helsinki University Hospital, P.O. Box 340, FI-00029 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Katarina Lindroos
- Forensic Medicine Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30 (Mannerheimintie 166), FI-00271 Helsinki, Finland
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Dewidar O, Al-Zubaidi A, Bondok M, Abdelrazeq L, Huang J, Jearvis A, Barker LC, Elmestekawy N, Goghomu E, Rader T, Tufte J, Greer-Smith R, Waddington HS, Nicholls SG, Little J, Hardy BJ, Horsley T, Young T, Cuervo LG, Sharp MK, Chamberlain C, Shea B, Craig P, Lawson DO, Rizvi A, Wiysonge CS, Kredo T, Francis D, Kristjansson E, Bhutta Z, Antequera A, Melendez-Torres GJ, Pantoja T, Wang X, Jull J, Roberts JH, Funnell S, White H, Krentel A, Mahande MJ, Ramke J, Wells G, Petkovic J, Pottie K, Niba L, Feng C, Nguliefem MN, Tugwell P, Mbuagbaw L, Welch V. Reporting of equity in observational epidemiology: A methodological review. J Glob Health 2024; 14:04046. [PMID: 38491911 PMCID: PMC10903926 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.14.04046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Observational studies can inform how we understand and address persisting health inequities through the collection, reporting and analysis of health equity factors. However, the extent to which the analysis and reporting of equity-relevant aspects in observational research are generally unknown. Thus, we aimed to systematically evaluate how equity-relevant observational studies reported equity considerations in the study design and analyses. Methods We searched MEDLINE for health equity-relevant observational studies from January 2020 to March 2022, resulting in 16 828 articles. We randomly selected 320 studies, ensuring a balance in focus on populations experiencing inequities, country income settings, and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) topic. We extracted information on study design and analysis methods. Results The bulk of the studies were conducted in North America (n = 95, 30%), followed by Europe and Central Asia (n = 55, 17%). Half of the studies (n = 171, 53%) addressed general health and well-being, while 49 (15%) focused on mental health conditions. Two-thirds of the studies (n = 220, 69%) were cross-sectional. Eight (3%) engaged with populations experiencing inequities, while 22 (29%) adapted recruitment methods to reach these populations. Further, 67 studies (21%) examined interaction effects primarily related to race or ethnicity (48%). Two-thirds of the studies (72%) adjusted for characteristics associated with inequities, and 18 studies (6%) used flow diagrams to depict how populations experiencing inequities progressed throughout the studies. Conclusions Despite over 80% of the equity-focused observational studies providing a rationale for a focus on health equity, reporting of study design features relevant to health equity ranged from 0-95%, with over half of the items reported by less than one-quarter of studies. This methodological study is a baseline assessment to inform the development of an equity-focussed reporting guideline for observational studies as an extension of the well-known Strengthening Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guideline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Dewidar
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Bruyère Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ali Al-Zubaidi
- Bruyère Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Mostafa Bondok
- Bruyère Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Leenah Abdelrazeq
- Bruyère Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jimmy Huang
- Bruyère Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alyssa Jearvis
- Bruyère Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lucy C Barker
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nour Elmestekawy
- Bruyère Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Goghomu
- Bruyère Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tamara Rader
- Freelance health research librarian, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Janice Tufte
- Hassanah Consulting, Seattle, Washington State, USA
| | - Regina Greer-Smith
- Healthcare Research Associates, LLC/S.T.A.R. Initiative, California, USA
| | - Hugh S Waddington
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- London International Development Centre, London, UK
| | - Stuart G Nicholls
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
- Office for Patient Engagement in Research Activity (OPERA), Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Julian Little
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Billie-Jo Hardy
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Well Living House, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tanya Horsley
- Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Taryn Young
- Centre for Evidence Based Health Care, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Luis Gabriel Cuervo
- Department of Evidence and Intelligence for Action in Health, Pan American Health Organization (PAHO/WHO), Washington, DC, USA
- Doctoral Programme on Methodology of Biomedical Research and Public Health, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Melissa K Sharp
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Catherine Chamberlain
- Judith Lumley Centre, School of Nursing and Midwifery, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
- Ngangk Yira Research Centre for Aboriginal Health and Social Equity, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | - Beverley Shea
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter Craig
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Daeria O Lawson
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anita Rizvi
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Charles S Wiysonge
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tamara Kredo
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Centre for Evidence Based Health Care, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Damian Francis
- School of Health and Human Performance, Georgia College, Milledgeville, Georgia, USA
| | - Elizabeth Kristjansson
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zulfiqar Bhutta
- Centre for Global Child Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Alba Antequera
- Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - GJ Melendez-Torres
- Department of Public Health and Sports Science, University of Exeter College of Medicine and Health, Exeter, UK
| | - Tomas Pantoja
- Family Medicine Department, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Xiaoqin Wang
- Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Pain Research and Care, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Janet Jull
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen’s University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Janet Hatcher Roberts
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Knowledge Translation and Health Technology Assessment in Health Equity, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Sarah Funnell
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario
| | | | - Alison Krentel
- Bruyère Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael Johnson Mahande
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Tanzania
| | - Jacqueline Ramke
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - George Wells
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Jennifer Petkovic
- Bruyère Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kevin Pottie
- C.T. Lamont Primary Care Research Centre, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Loveline Niba
- Department of Public Health, The University of Bamenda, Bamenda, Cameroon
- Nutrition and Health Research Group (NHRG), Bamenda, Cameroon
| | - Cindy Feng
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Miriam N Nguliefem
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter Tugwell
- Bruyère Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Lawrence Mbuagbaw
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vivian Welch
- Bruyère Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Nilsson SF, Wimberley T, Speyer H, Hjorthøj C, Fazel S, Nordentoft M, Laursen TM. The bidirectional association between psychiatric disorders and sheltered homelessness. Psychol Med 2024; 54:742-752. [PMID: 37679023 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291723002428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychiatric disorders and homelessness are related, but temporal associations are unclear. We aimed to explore the overlap between hospital-based psychiatric disorders and sheltered homelessness. METHODS This population-based cohort study was conducted using the Danish registers e.g., the Danish Homeless Register and the Danish National Patient Register. The study cohort included all individuals aged 15 years or older, living in Denmark at least one day during 2002-2021 (born 1984-2006). First psychiatric diagnosis was used to define psychiatric disorder and first homeless shelter contact to define homelessness. Adjusted incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and cumulative incidences were estimated. RESULTS Among 1 530 325 individuals accounting for 16 787 562 person-years at risk aged 15-38 years, 11 433 (0.8%) had at least one homeless shelter contact. Among 1 406 410 individuals accounting for 14 131 060 person-years at risk, 210 730 had at least one psychiatric disorder. People with any psychiatric disorder had increased risk of sheltered homelessness relative to individuals with no psychiatric disorder [IRR 9.2, 95% confidence interval (CI) 8.8-9.6]. Ten years after first psychiatric disorder, 3.0% (95% CI 2.9-3.1) had at least one homeless shelter contact. Individuals experiencing homelessness had increased risk of any psychiatric disorder compared to individuals with no homeless shelter contact (IRR 7.0, 95% CI 6.7-7.4). Ten years after first homeless shelter contact, 47.1% (45.3-48.0) had received a hospital-based psychiatric diagnosis. CONCLUSION Strong bidirectional associations between psychiatric disorders and homelessness were identified. Health and social care professionals should be aware of and address these high risks of accumulated psychiatric and social problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Feodor Nilsson
- Copenhagen Research Center for Mental Health - CORE, Copenhagen University Hospital - Mental Health Services CPH, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Theresa Wimberley
- The National Centre for Register-Based Research, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- iPSYCH - The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrated Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Helene Speyer
- Copenhagen Research Center for Mental Health - CORE, Copenhagen University Hospital - Mental Health Services CPH, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Carsten Hjorthøj
- Copenhagen Research Center for Mental Health - CORE, Copenhagen University Hospital - Mental Health Services CPH, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Public Health, Section of Epidemiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Seena Fazel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Merete Nordentoft
- Copenhagen Research Center for Mental Health - CORE, Copenhagen University Hospital - Mental Health Services CPH, Copenhagen, Denmark
- iPSYCH - The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrated Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Munk Laursen
- The National Centre for Register-Based Research, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Williams O, Gray BJ, Perrett SE. Identifying the public health needs of a UK probation cohort: a cross-sectional analysis. J Public Health (Oxf) 2024; 46:12-19. [PMID: 37738133 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdad183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The health needs of those under probation are likely high, but they have received very little public health attention. Limited evidence exists on the public health needs and interventions to support this cohort. METHODS Surveys were completed by 257 people on probation as part of a local health needs assessment. Results were compared with the general population responses from the National Survey for Wales (2021-22). RESULTS People on probation were 4.2 times more likely to self-report not-good general health (fair, bad or very bad) than the general population (adjusted Odds Ratio [aOR] 4.2, 95% Confidence Intervals [CI] 3.2-5.4). The odds of having a mental health condition were over eight times higher than the general population (aOR 8.8, 95% CI 6.8-11.4). Prevalence of smoking (52%), drug use (60%), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (21%), autism (4%) and dyslexia (15%) were all higher than the general population. General Practitioner usage and hospital stays were higher, but dentist or optician usage lower than the general population (P < 0.05). Emergency departments were accessed by 35%, with 9% frequenting them three or more times. CONCLUSIONS People on probation have poorer self-reported health, higher prevalence of unhealthy behaviours and higher accessing of reactive health services than the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Williams
- Public Health Wales, 2 Capital Quarter, Tyndall Street, Cardiff, CF10 4BZ, Wales
| | - B J Gray
- Public Health Wales, 2 Capital Quarter, Tyndall Street, Cardiff, CF10 4BZ, Wales
| | - S E Perrett
- Public Health Wales, 2 Capital Quarter, Tyndall Street, Cardiff, CF10 4BZ, Wales
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Mudiganti S, Nasrallah C, Brown S, Pressman A, Kiger A, Casey JA, LaMori JC, Pesa J, Azar KMJ. Homelessness Among Acute Care Patients Within a Large Health Care System in Northern California. Popul Health Manag 2024; 27:13-25. [PMID: 38236711 DOI: 10.1089/pop.2023.0190] [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] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The impacts of homelessness on health and health care access are detrimental. Intervention and efforts to improve outcomes and increase availability of affordable housing have mainly originated from the public health sector and government. The role that large community-based health systems may play has yet to be established. This study characterizes patients self-identified as homeless in acute care facilities in a large integrated health care system in Northern California to inform the development of collaborative interventions addressing unmet needs of this vulnerable population. The authors compared sociodemographic characteristics, clinical conditions, and health care utilization of individuals who did and did not self-identify as homeless and characterized their geographical distribution in relation to Sutter hospitals and homeless resources. Between July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2020, 5% (N = 20,259) of the acute care settings patients had evidence of homelessness, among which 51.1% age <45 years, 66.4% males, and 24% non-Hispanic Black. Patients experiencing homelessness had higher emergency department utilization and lower utilization of outpatient and urgent care services. Mental health conditions were more common among patients experiencing homelessness. More than half of the hospitals had >5% of patients who identified as homeless. Some hospitals with higher proportions of patients experiencing homelessness are not located near many shelter resources. By understanding patients who self-identify as homeless, it is possible to assess the role of the health system in addressing their unmet needs. Accurate identification is the first step for the health systems to develop and deliver better solutions through collaborations with nonprofit organizations, community partners, and government agencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satish Mudiganti
- Sutter Health Institute for Advancing Health Equity, Sutter Health, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Catherine Nasrallah
- Division of Rheumatology, Medical Department, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Stephanie Brown
- Sutter Health Institute for Advancing Health Equity, Sutter Health, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Alice Pressman
- Sutter Health Institute for Advancing Health Equity, Sutter Health, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Anna Kiger
- Sutter Health Institute for Advancing Health Equity, Sutter Health, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Joan A Casey
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Joyce C LaMori
- Janssen Scientific Affairs, LLC, Titusville, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jacqueline Pesa
- Janssen Scientific Affairs, LLC, Titusville, New Jersey, USA
| | - Kristen M J Azar
- Sutter Health Institute for Advancing Health Equity, Sutter Health, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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Gibbs D, Colledge-Frisby S, Farnbach S, Doyle M, Shakeshaft A, Larney S. Associations Between Supported Accommodation and Health and Re-offending Outcomes: a Retrospective Data Linkage Study. J Urban Health 2024; 101:80-91. [PMID: 38349583 PMCID: PMC10897077 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-023-00824-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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Following release from prison, housing and health issues form a complex and mutually reinforcing dynamic, increasing reincarceration risk. Supported accommodation aims to mitigate these post-release challenges. We describe the impact of attending Rainbow Lodge (RL), a post-release supported accommodation service for men in Sydney, Australia, on criminal justice and emergency health outcomes. Our retrospective cohort study using linked administrative data includes 415 individuals referred to RL between January 2015 and October 2020. Outcomes of interest were rates of criminal charges, emergency department (ED) presentations and ambulance attendance; and time to first reincarceration, criminal charge, ED presentation and ambulance attendance. The exposure of interest was attending RL; covariates included demographic characteristics, release year and prior criminal justice and emergency health contact. Those who attended RL (n = 170, 41%) more commonly identified as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander (52% vs 41%; p = 0.025). There was strong evidence that attending RL reduced the incidence criminal charges (adjusted rate ratio [ARR] = 0.56; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.340.86; p = 0.009). Absolute rates indicate a weak protective effect of RL attendance on ED presentation and ambulance attendance; however, adjusted analyses indicated no evidence of an association between attending RL and rates of ED presentations (ARR = 0.88; 95% CI = 0.65-1.21), or ambulance attendance (ARR = 0.82; 95% CI = 0.57-1.18). There was no evidence of an association between attending RL and time to first reincarceration, charge, ED presentation or ambulance attendance. Greater detail about reasons for emergency health service contact and other self-report outcome measures may better inform how supported accommodation is meeting its intended aims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisy Gibbs
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, 22-32 King Street, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia.
| | | | - Sara Farnbach
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, 22-32 King Street, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia
| | - Michael Doyle
- Central Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anthony Shakeshaft
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, 22-32 King Street, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia
- Poche Centre for Urban Indigenous Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sarah Larney
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Universite de Montreal and Centre de Recherche du CHUM, Montreal, Canada
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Requena MB, Protopopescu C, Stewart AC, van Santen DK, Klein MB, Jarrin I, Berenguer J, Wittkop L, Salmon D, Rauch A, Prins M, van der Valk M, Sacks-Davis R, Hellard ME, Carrieri P, Lacombe K. All-cause mortality before and after DAA availability among people living with HIV and HCV: An international comparison between 2010 and 2019. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 124:104311. [PMID: 38184902 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among people living with HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV), people who inject drugs (PWID) have historically experienced higher mortality rates. Direct-acting antivirals (DAA), which have led to a 90 % HCV cure rate independently of HIV co-infection, have improved mortality rates. However, DAA era mortality trends among PWID with HIV/HCV remain unknown. Using data from the International Collaboration on Hepatitis C Elimination in HIV Cohorts (InCHEHC), we compared pre/post-DAA availability mortality changes in three groups: PWID, men who have sex with men (MSM), and all other participants. METHODS We included InCHEHC participants with HIV/HCV followed between 2010 and 2019 in Canada, France, the Netherlands, Spain, and Switzerland. All-cause mortality hazard was compared in the three groups, using Cox proportional hazards regression models adjusted for sex, age, advanced fibrosis/cirrhosis, and pre/post DAA availability. RESULTS Of the 11,029 participants, 76 % were men, 46 % were PWID, baseline median age was 46 years (interquartile range [IQR] = 40;51), and median CD4 T-cell count was 490 cells/mm3 (IQR = 327;689). Over the study period (median follow-up = 7.2 years (IQR = 3.7;10.0)), 6143 (56 %) participants received HCV treatment, 4880 (44 %) were cured, and 1322 participants died (mortality rate = 1.81/100 person-years (PY) [95 % confidence interval (CI)=1.72-1.91]). Overall, PWID had higher mortality rates than MSM (2.5/100 PY [95 % CI = 2.3-2.6] vs. 0.8/100 PY [95 % CI = 0.7-0.9], respectively). Unlike women with other transmission modes, those who injected drugs had a higher mortality hazard than men who did not inject drugs and men who were not MSM (adjusted Hazard-Ratio (aHR) [95 % CI] = 1.3[1.0-1.6]). Post-DAA availability, mortality decreased among MSM in the Netherlands, Spain, and Switzerland and increased among PWID in Canada (aHR [95 % CI] = 1.73 [1.15-2.61]). CONCLUSION Post-DAA availability, all-cause mortality did not decrease in PWID. Determinants of cause-specific deaths (drug-related, HIV-related, or HCV-related) need to be identified to explain persistently high mortality among PWID in the DAA era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Bernarda Requena
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Pierre Louis Institute of Epidemiology and Public Health, iPLESP, Paris, France
| | - Camelia Protopopescu
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France.
| | - Ashleigh C Stewart
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Daniela K van Santen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marina B Klein
- Division of Infectious Diseases, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Inmaculada Jarrin
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas, CIBERINFEC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Berenguer
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas, CIBERINFEC, Madrid, Spain; Infectious Diseases. Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, IiSGM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Linda Wittkop
- Université de Bordeaux, ISPED, INSERM, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, U1219, CIC-EC 1401, Bordeaux, France; Inria équipe SISTM, Talence, France; CHU de Bordeaux, Service d'information médicale, INSERM, Institut Bergonié, CIC-EC 1401, Bordeaux, France
| | - Dominique Salmon
- Université Paris Descartes, Service Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, AP-HP, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Andri Rauch
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, AI&II, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marc van der Valk
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute, AI&II, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rachel Sacks-Davis
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Margaret E Hellard
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Patrizia Carrieri
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | - Karine Lacombe
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Pierre Louis Institute of Epidemiology and Public Health, iPLESP, Paris, France; AP-HP, Department of Infectious Diseases, Saint-Antoine Hospital, Paris, France
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Alang SM, Letcher AS, Mitsdarffer ML, Kieber-Emmons A, Rivera J, Moeller C, Biery N, Batts H. The Radical Welcome Engagement Restoration Model and Assessment Tool for Community-Engaged Partnerships. Health Promot Pract 2024:15248399231223744. [PMID: 38293773 DOI: 10.1177/15248399231223744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
People experiencing addiction, houselessness, or who have a history of incarceration have worse health outcomes compared with the general population. This is due, in part, to practices and policies of historically White institutions that exclude the voices, perspectives, and contributions of communities of color in leadership, socio-economic development, and decision-making that matters for their wellbeing. Community-based participatory research (CBPR) approaches hold promise for addressing health inequities. However, full engagement of people harmed by systemic injustices in CBPR partnerships is challenging due to inequities in power and access to resources. We describe how an Allentown-based CBPR partnership-the Health Equity Activation Research Team of clinicians, researchers, and persons with histories of incarceration, addiction, and houselessness-uses the Radical Welcome Engagement Restoration Model (RWERM) to facilitate full engagement by all partners. Data were collected through participatory ethnography, focus groups, and individual interviews. Analyses were performed using deductive coding in a series of iterative meaning-making processes that involved all partners. Findings highlighted six defining phases of the radical welcome framework: (a) passionate invitation, (b) radical welcome, (c) authentic sense of belonging, (d) co-creation of roles, (e) prioritization of issues, and (f) individual and collective action. A guide to assessing progression across these phases, as well as a 32-item radical welcome instrument to help CBPR partners anticipate and overcome challenges to engagement are introduced and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirry M Alang
- Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, USA
- University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Jose Rivera
- Promise Neighborhoods of the Lehigh Valley, Allentown, PA, USA
- Pinebrook Family Answers, Allentown, PA, USA
| | | | - Nyann Biery
- Lehigh Valley Health Network, Allentown, PA, USA
| | - Hasshan Batts
- Promise Neighborhoods of the Lehigh Valley, Allentown, PA, USA
- Prison Survivor Network, Allentown, PA, USA
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Crooks J, Flemming K, Shulman C, Hudson B. Understanding aims, successes and challenges of palliative care and homelessness initiatives across the UK: an exploratory study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e075498. [PMID: 38272553 PMCID: PMC10824023 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-075498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the recognition that people experiencing homelessness (PEH) often die young and unsupported, a growing number of initiatives focusing on palliative care and homelessness are emerging across the UK. However, there has been no systematic exploration of the nature and landscape of this work. AIMS To understand the range, aims, successes and challenges of current initiatives within the field of palliative care and homelessness in the UK, by exploring existing projects and initiatives. METHOD An online survey was distributed to members of an Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes network focusing on palliative care and homelessness for a mixed professional audience. The survey collated the aims, successes and challenges of initiatives aiming to improve palliative care for PEH. Responses were summarised using descriptive statistics, and free-text responses were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS 162 professionals completed the survey. Of these, 62% reported involvement in at least one palliative care and homelessness initiative. Initiatives focused on service delivery (59%), training (28%) and research (28%). Themes for success included improved service engagement, relationship formation, housing provision, honouring end-of-life wishes, upskilling staff and enabling safe hospital discharge. The main challenges included stigma around substance misuse, securing funding, staff capacity, equipment and facilities, and engaging communities. CONCLUSION The number and scope of initiatives aiming to support PEH with advanced ill health and palliative care needs across the UK is growing, with a range of professionals engaging in the field. Future research may benefit from exploring initiatives in more detail to understand the specific drivers of impact on PEH and the staff and services supporting them.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Caroline Shulman
- Pathway, London, UK
- UCL, Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, London, UK
| | - Briony Hudson
- Policy and Research, Marie Curie, London, UK
- UCL, Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, London, UK
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Cheng Y, Fang Y, Zheng J, Guan S, Wang M, Hong W. The burden of depression, anxiety and schizophrenia among the older population in ageing and aged countries: an analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. Gen Psychiatr 2024; 37:e101078. [PMID: 38274290 PMCID: PMC10806508 DOI: 10.1136/gpsych-2023-101078] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Depression, anxiety and schizophrenia among older persons have become global public health challenges. However, the burden of these disorders in ageing and aged countries has not been analysed. Aims To investigate the burden of depression, anxiety and schizophrenia among older adults in ageing and aged countries. Methods Using data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019, we calculated the estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) in the age-standardised incidence rates (ASIR) and age-standardised disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) rates (ASDR) for depression, anxiety and schizophrenia of older people in ageing countries (China, India, Indonesia) and aged countries (Japan, Italy, Portugal) between 1990 and 2019. Trends in incidence and DALYs were analysed by gender and age. Results In 2019, the highest incidence of depression, anxiety and schizophrenia in the older population in aged countries was in Japan (927 271.3 (752 552.3-1 125 796.5), 51 498.2 (37 625.7-70 487.3) and 126.0 (61.0-223.2), respectively), while the highest incidence in ageing countries was in China (5 797 556.9 (4 599 403.4-7 133 006.5), 330 256.1 (246 448.9-445 987.4) and 1067.7 (556.2-1775.9), respectively). DALYs for these disorders were similar, with the highest in Japan and China. From 1990 to 2019, the ASIR for depressive disorders decreased in aged countries but increased in ageing countries; the ASIR for anxiety disorders and schizophrenia declined in both ageing and aged countries. The ASDR for depressive disorders was consistent with the ASIR but not for anxiety disorders and schizophrenia. The ASIR for depressive disorders was higher in older women, while the opposite was observed in anxiety disorders and schizophrenia. Notably, the conditions of burden of depressive disorders, anxiety disorders and schizophrenia in the 65-70-year-old age group were the most burdensome. Conclusions The incidence and DALYs of these three mental disorders increased while exhibiting differences between ageing and aged countries. Raising awareness about formulating health policies for preventing and treating mental disorders in the older population is necessary to reduce the future burden posed by the ageing challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Cheng
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Fang
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinxin Zheng
- Department of Nephrology, Ruijin Hospital, Institute of Nephrology, Institute of Nephrology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- School of Global Health, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shiyang Guan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Meiti Wang
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wu Hong
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Carpenter C, O' Farrell A, Ní Áinle F, Ní Cheallaigh C, Kevane B. Retrospective cross-sectional analysis of concurrent VTE diagnosis in hospitalised socially excluded individuals in Ireland. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e073718. [PMID: 38216204 PMCID: PMC10806692 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-073718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Social exclusion (such as that experienced by people who are homeless, incarcerated or use drugs) increases morbidity across a range of diseases but is poorly captured in routine data sets. The aim of this study was to use a novel composite variable in a national-level hospital usage dataset to identify social exclusion and to determine whether social exclusion is associated with concurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) in hospitalised patients in Ireland. Identifying and characterising this association in people who are socially excluded will inform VTE prevention and treatment strategies. DESIGN Retrospective cross-sectional study. SETTING Irish Hospital Inpatient Enquiry (HIPE) system, which collects diagnostic information by International Classification of Diseases Tenth Revision code on all hospital admission episodes in the Ireland. PARTICIPANTS All hospital admission episodes involving a VTE diagnosis (in a primary 'Dx 1' or secondary 'Dx 2-30' coding position) during a 12-month period in the Ireland were identified from consolidated, national-level datasets derived from the Irish HIPE system. Social exclusion was defined as the presence of one or more indicators of homelessness, drug use, incarceration, health hazards due to socioeconomic status or episodes of healthcare terminated prematurely. RESULTS Of 5701 admission episodes involving a VTE diagnosis (in a primary or secondary position) during the study period, 271 (4.8%) related to an individual affected by social exclusion. Among hospitalised individuals identified as being socially excluded based on the novel composite variable, the likelihood of having a concurrent VTE diagnosis was over twofold greater than that observed in the general population (OR 2.14, 95% CI 1.79 to 2.26; p<0.001). CONCLUSION These data suggest that VTE (primary and secondary) is over-represented in hospitalised socially excluded persons in Ireland and that the development of strategies to address this potentially life-threatening accompanying condition in this vulnerable patient group must be prioritised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Carpenter
- Irish Network for VTE Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Anne O' Farrell
- Department of Statistics and Epidemiology, Health Intelligence Unit, HSE, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Fionnuala Ní Áinle
- Irish Network for VTE Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Clíona Ní Cheallaigh
- School of Medicine, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
- Inclusion Health Service, St James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Barry Kevane
- Irish Network for VTE Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Palis H, Young P, Korchinski M, Wood S, Xavier J, Luk N, Mahil S, Bartlett S, Brown H, Salmon A, Nicholls T, Slaunwhite A. "Shared experience makes this all possible": documenting the guiding principles of peer-led services for people released from prison. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:84. [PMID: 38172781 PMCID: PMC10765918 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17524-4] [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: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a growing body of evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of peer-led services in supporting community reintegration for people released from prison. This study aims to document the guiding principle of a peer-led service for people released from prison, from the perspective of peer mentors. METHODS Data were collected using focus groups (N = 10; 2 groups with 5 participants each) and one-on-one interviews (N = 5) including a total of 13 people, representing all UTGSS staff at the time of the study. An inductive thematic analysis was used to identify patterns in the data. Initial coding was done by using "in-vivo" codes (i.e. applying codes to terms used by participants). This informed the direction of the next stage of analysis, which focused on identifying categories that synthesized the codes and data across transcripts. In this stage, broad themes and sub-themes were developed. FINDINGS Six themes were constructed to reflect the guiding principles of UTGSS staff. This includes four central themes: 1) Offering hope; 2) Building respectful relationships; 3) Providing consistent support; 4) Meeting people where they are at. Two connected themes are also reported: 1) Relying on shared experience, which participants reported serves as the foundation for practicing these guiding principles and 2) Bridging connections to services, which reflects the outcome of practicing these guiding principles. CONCLUSION The principles identified in this study can be used by UTGSS staff as a guide for checking-in on progress with clients and may be considered as a model for reflection on practice by staff providing similar peer-led services. These principles should not be applied in a prescriptive way, as relationship building is at the centre of peer support, and different applications will be required depending on clients' goals and the range of supports available within their community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Palis
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, 255 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 2A1, Canada.
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada.
| | - Pam Young
- Unlocking the Gates Services Society, 22838 Lougheed Hwy. Unit 104, Maple Ridge, BC, V2X 2V6, Canada
| | - Mo Korchinski
- Unlocking the Gates Services Society, 22838 Lougheed Hwy. Unit 104, Maple Ridge, BC, V2X 2V6, Canada
| | - Shawn Wood
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Jessica Xavier
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Nelson Luk
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Simrat Mahil
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Sofia Bartlett
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Helen Brown
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, 2211 Wesbrook Mall T201, Vancouver, BC, V6T 2B5, Canada
| | - Amy Salmon
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, St. Paul's Hospital, 70-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z IY6, Canada
| | - Tonia Nicholls
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, 255 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 2A1, Canada
- BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services, 4949 Heather St, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 3L7, Canada
| | - Amanda Slaunwhite
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
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Anthonj C, Mingoti Poague KIH, Fleming L, Stanglow S. Invisible struggles: WASH insecurity and implications of extreme weather among urban homeless in high-income countries - A systematic scoping review. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2024; 255:114285. [PMID: 37925888 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2023.114285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
This paper aims to provide a deeper understanding of the water-, sanitation- and hygiene (WASH)-related insecurities that people experiencing homelessness in urban areas of high-income countries (HIC) are facing, and how these insecurities are further complicated during extreme weather events. While limited recent research has looked into WASH among people experiencing homelessness in HICs, and while some work has considering the implications of climate change on WASH and health, the nexus of WASH, extreme weather events and homelessness in HICs have not been studied thus far. We conducted the first systematic scoping review of peer-reviewed literature on this nexus, which is understudied and marked by complexity, involving a range of systems and forms of impact. A total of 50 publications were included in our analysis. We found that public facilities like drinking water fountains, toilets, handwashing facilities, and showers are scarce, frequently unavailable, often pose safety and cleanliness issues, and access to non-public facilities may be cost-prohibitive for homeless populations. Consequently, people experiencing homelessness, including those sleeping rough, in encampments, or shelters, are often forced to limit drinking water consumption, forego healthy hygiene behaviours, and resort to open urination and defecation, all of which carry health risks. Extreme weather events, like heatwaves, extreme cold, heavy rain and flooding exacerbate challenges for people experiencing homelessness, further complicating their access to WASH, and reducing the ability of service providers to deliver extra relief, creating a dual WASH and health burden. Our review highlights that the Human Right to Water and Sanitation is not met for people experiencing homelessness in urban areas of high-income countries, with women emerging as one of the most vulnerable subgroups. It reveals that the impact of certain WASH issues (e.g. drinking water) on homeless populations are better understood than others (e.g. waste), and, similarly, the effects of certain extreme weather events (e.g. heatwaves) on the health and WASH conditions of people experiencing homelessness are better understood than others (e.g. flooding). Data gaps and the lack of information on limited WASH access and health circumstances of people experiencing homelessness, further minimize their representation and consequently impose obstacles to improve their situation. Based on our analysis, we established a framework which operationalizes the nexus of WASH, extreme weather events and homelessness. This framework improves our understanding of the underlying complexities at the intersection of these three issues and provides a foundation for enhanced preparedness and health-oriented planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Anthonj
- Faculty of Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation, ITC, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands.
| | | | - Lisa Fleming
- Independent Consultant, California, San Francisco, United States
| | - Sarah Stanglow
- Social Worker, Verein für Gefährdetenhilfe Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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González-Santiago AE, Gómez-Cabrera AS, Baptista-Rosas RC, Zúñiga-González GM, Gómez-Meda BC, Navarro AAS, Sánchez-Parada MG. Cytogenotoxicity effects in addicts with multidrug consumption. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2024; 65:84-95. [PMID: 38353119 DOI: 10.1002/em.22584] [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: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Drug abuse is considered a global health problem with serious social impact. In recent decades, changes in drug consumption patterns have shown a clear rising trend in the use of multiple drugs. Although the buccal micronucleus cytome (BMCyt) assay has evaluated cytotoxicity in drug abuse, there has not been an approach that takes into account this pattern of multiple drug use. Therefore, in this study, we evaluate for the first time the cytogenotoxic effects in multidrug users, and its correlation with the amount consumed and years of abuse. This study was conducted on 166 individuals by the BMCyt assay. A total of 83 individuals with a history of multiple licit (alcohol and tobacco) and at least one illicit drug abuse (marijuana, methamphetamines, cocaine, and/or inhalants), and 83 healthy individuals, non-drug abusers were analyzed. The results showed that drug abusers had higher frequencies of nuclear abnormalities nuclear buds, binucleated cells, pyknotic nuclei (PNs), karyorrhexis (KX), and abnormally condensed chromatin when compared with healthy controls. Moreover, results suggests that the use of licit and illicit drugs is related to cytogenotoxic damage, as was shown by an upward trend in the frequency of nuclear abnormalities identified in groups 1 (alcohol + tobacco + at least one illicit drug) and 2 (tobacco + at least one illicit drug). Furthermore, a positive correlation was found in the different groups, between the years and the amount of consumption of some drugs (alcohol, methamphetamine, and tobacco) with cytotoxicity markers such as KL, KX, and PNs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Elizabeth González-Santiago
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, División de Ciencias de la Salud, Centro Universitario de Tonalá, Universidad de Guadalajara, Tonalá, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Salvador Gómez-Cabrera
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, División de Ciencias de la Salud, Centro Universitario de Tonalá, Universidad de Guadalajara, Tonalá, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Raúl Cuauhtémoc Baptista-Rosas
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud-Enfermedad como Proceso Individual, Centro Universitario de Tonalá, Universidad de Guadalajara, Tonalá, Jalisco, Mexico
- Unidad de intervención de Medicina Crítica, Hospital General de Occidente, Secretaría de Salud Jalisco, Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Guillermo Moisés Zúñiga-González
- Laboratorio de Mutagénesis, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Belinda Claudia Gómez-Meda
- Instituto de Genética Humana Dr. Enrique Corona Rivera, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Ana Alondra Sobrevilla Navarro
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, División de Ciencias de la Salud, Centro Universitario de Tonalá, Universidad de Guadalajara, Tonalá, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - María Guadalupe Sánchez-Parada
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, División de Ciencias de la Salud, Centro Universitario de Tonalá, Universidad de Guadalajara, Tonalá, Jalisco, Mexico
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