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Hagerman L, Clark EC, Neil-Sztramko SE, Colangeli T, Dobbins M. Features of databases that supported searching for rapid evidence synthesis during COVID-19: implications for future public health emergencies. BMC Med Res Methodol 2024; 24:135. [PMID: 38907198 PMCID: PMC11191239 DOI: 10.1186/s12874-024-02246-x] [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: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As evidence related to the COVID-19 pandemic surged, databases, platforms, and repositories evolved with features and functions to assist users in promptly finding the most relevant evidence. In response, research synthesis teams adopted novel searching strategies to sift through the vast amount of evidence to synthesize and disseminate the most up-to-date evidence. This paper explores the key database features that facilitated systematic searching for rapid evidence synthesis during the COVID-19 pandemic to inform knowledge management infrastructure during future global health emergencies. METHODS This paper outlines the features and functions of previously existing and newly created evidence sources routinely searched as part of the NCCMT's Rapid Evidence Service methods, including databases, platforms, and repositories. Specific functions of each evidence source were assessed as they pertain to searching in the context of a public health emergency, including the topics of indexed citations, the level of evidence of indexed citations, and specific usability features of each evidence source. RESULTS Thirteen evidence sources were assessed, of which four were newly created and nine were either pre-existing or adapted from previously existing resources. Evidence sources varied in topics indexed, level of evidence indexed, and specific searching functions. CONCLUSION This paper offers insights into which features enabled systematic searching for the completion of rapid reviews to inform decision makers within 5-10 days. These findings provide guidance for knowledge management strategies and evidence infrastructures during future public health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah Hagerman
- National Collaborating Centre for Methods and Tools, McMaster University, McMaster Innovation Park, 175 Longwood Rd S, Suite 210a, Hamilton, ON, L8P 0A1, Canada
| | - Emily C Clark
- National Collaborating Centre for Methods and Tools, McMaster University, McMaster Innovation Park, 175 Longwood Rd S, Suite 210a, Hamilton, ON, L8P 0A1, Canada
| | - Sarah E Neil-Sztramko
- National Collaborating Centre for Methods and Tools, McMaster University, McMaster Innovation Park, 175 Longwood Rd S, Suite 210a, Hamilton, ON, L8P 0A1, Canada
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact, McMaster University, McMaster University Medical Centre, 2C Area, 1280 Main St W, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Taylor Colangeli
- National Collaborating Centre for Methods and Tools, McMaster University, McMaster Innovation Park, 175 Longwood Rd S, Suite 210a, Hamilton, ON, L8P 0A1, Canada
| | - Maureen Dobbins
- National Collaborating Centre for Methods and Tools, McMaster University, McMaster Innovation Park, 175 Longwood Rd S, Suite 210a, Hamilton, ON, L8P 0A1, Canada.
- School of Nursing, Health Sciences Centre, McMaster University, 2J20, 1280 Main St W, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada.
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Johansson T, Chambers RL, Curtis T, Pask S, Greenley S, Brittain M, Bone AE, Laidlaw L, Okamoto I, Barclay S, Higginson IJ, Murtagh FE, Sleeman KE. The effectiveness of out-of-hours palliative care telephone advice lines: A rapid systematic review. Palliat Med 2024; 38:625-643. [PMID: 38708864 PMCID: PMC11158006 DOI: 10.1177/02692163241248544] [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] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with palliative care needs and their carers often rely on out-of-hours services to remain at home. Policymakers have recommended implementing telephone advice lines to ensure 24/7 access to support. However, the impact of these services on patient and carer outcomes, as well as the health care system, remains poorly understood. AIM To evaluate the clinical- and cost-effectiveness of out-of-hours palliative care telephone advice lines, and to identify service characteristics associated with effectiveness. DESIGN Rapid systematic review (PROSPERO ID: CRD42023400370) with narrative synthesis. DATA SOURCES Three databases (Medline, EMBASE and CINAHL) were searched in February 2023 for studies of any design reporting on telephone advice lines with at least partial out-of-hours availability. Study quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool, and quantitative and qualitative data were synthesised narratively. RESULTS Twenty-one studies, published 2000-2022, were included. Most studies were observational, none were experimental. While some evidence suggested that telephone advice lines offer guidance and reassurance, supporting care at home and potentially reducing avoidable emergency care use in the last months of life, variability in reporting and poor methodological quality across studies limit our understanding of patient/carer and health care system outcomes. CONCLUSION Despite their increasing use, evidence for the clinical- and cost-effectiveness of palliative care telephone advice lines remains limited, primarily due to the lack of robust comparative studies. There is a need for more rigorous evaluations incorporating experimental or quasi-experimental methods and longer follow-up, and standardised reporting of telephone advice line models and outcomes, to guide policy and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Therese Johansson
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Rachel L. Chambers
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Thomas Curtis
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Sophie Pask
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Sarah Greenley
- Institute of Clinical and Applied Health Research, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Molly Brittain
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Anna E. Bone
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Lynn Laidlaw
- Cicely Saunders Institute Patient & Public Involvement Group, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Ikumi Okamoto
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Stephen Barclay
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Irene J. Higginson
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, UK
- King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Fliss E.M. Murtagh
- Institute of Clinical and Applied Health Research, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Katherine E. Sleeman
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, UK
- King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Guo Q, Jiang G, Zhao Q, Long Y, Feng K, Gu X, Xu Y, Li Z, Huang J, Du L. Rapid review: A review of methods and recommendations based on current evidence. J Evid Based Med 2024; 17:434-453. [PMID: 38512942 DOI: 10.1111/jebm.12594] [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: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Rapid review (RR) could accelerate the traditional systematic review (SR) process by simplifying or omitting steps using various shortcuts. With the increasing popularity of RR, numerous shortcuts had emerged, but there was no consensus on how to choose the most appropriate ones. This study conducted a literature search in PubMed from inception to December 21, 2023, using terms such as "rapid review" "rapid assessment" "rapid systematic review" and "rapid evaluation". We also scanned the reference lists and performed citation tracking of included impact studies to obtain more included studies. We conducted a narrative synthesis of all RR approaches, shortcuts and studies assessing their effectiveness at each stage of RRs. Based on the current evidence, we provided recommendations on utilizing certain shortcuts in RRs. Ultimately, we identified 185 studies focusing on summarizing RR approaches and shortcuts, or evaluating their impact. There was relatively sufficient evidence to support the use of the following shortcuts in RRs: limiting studies to those published in English-language; conducting abbreviated database searches (e.g., only searching PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL); omitting retrieval of grey literature; restricting the search timeframe to the recent 20 years for medical intervention and the recent 15 years for reviewing diagnostic test accuracy; conducting a single screening by an experienced screener. To some extent, the above shortcuts were also applicable to SRs. This study provided a reference for future RR researchers in selecting shortcuts, and it also presented a potential research topic for methodologists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Guo
- Innovation Institute for Integration of Medicine and Engineering, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
- West China Medical Publishers, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Guiyu Jiang
- West China School of Public Health, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Qingwen Zhao
- West China School of Public Health, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Youlin Long
- Innovation Institute for Integration of Medicine and Engineering, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
- Chinese Evidence-Based Medicine Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Kun Feng
- Innovation Institute for Integration of Medicine and Engineering, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
- Chinese Evidence-Based Medicine Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Xianlin Gu
- Innovation Institute for Integration of Medicine and Engineering, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
- Chinese Evidence-Based Medicine Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Yihan Xu
- Innovation Institute for Integration of Medicine and Engineering, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
- Chinese Evidence-Based Medicine Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
- Center for education of medical humanities, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Zhengchi Li
- Center for education of medical humanities, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Jin Huang
- Innovation Institute for Integration of Medicine and Engineering, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Liang Du
- Innovation Institute for Integration of Medicine and Engineering, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
- West China Medical Publishers, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
- Chinese Evidence-Based Medicine Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
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Booth A, Sommer I, Noyes J, Houghton C, Campbell F. Rapid reviews methods series: guidance on rapid qualitative evidence synthesis. BMJ Evid Based Med 2024; 29:194-200. [PMID: 38355285 PMCID: PMC11137447 DOI: 10.1136/bmjebm-2023-112620] [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] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
This paper forms part of a series of methodological guidance from the Cochrane Rapid Reviews Methods Group and addresses rapid qualitative evidence syntheses (QESs), which use modified systematic, transparent and reproducible methodsu to accelerate the synthesis of qualitative evidence when faced with resource constraints. This guidance covers the review process as it relates to synthesis of qualitative research. 'Rapid' or 'resource-constrained' QES require use of templates and targeted knowledge user involvement. Clear definition of perspectives and decisions on indirect evidence, sampling and use of existing QES help in targeting eligibility criteria. Involvement of an information specialist, especially in prioritising databases, targeting grey literature and planning supplemental searches, can prove invaluable. Use of templates and frameworks in study selection and data extraction can be accompanied by quality assurance procedures targeting areas of likely weakness. Current Cochrane guidance informs selection of tools for quality assessment and of synthesis method. Thematic and framework synthesis facilitate efficient synthesis of large numbers of studies or plentiful data. Finally, judicious use of Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach for assessing the Confidence of Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research assessments and of software as appropriate help to achieve a timely and useful review product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Booth
- EnSyGN Sheffield Evidence Synthesis Group, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Cochrane Qualitative and Implementation Methods Group (CQIMG), London, UK
| | - Isolde Sommer
- Department for Evidence-based Medicine and Evaluation, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
- Cochrane Rapid Reviews Group & Cochrane Austria, Krems, Austria
| | - Jane Noyes
- Cochrane Qualitative and Implementation Methods Group (CQIMG), London, UK
- Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Catherine Houghton
- Cochrane Qualitative and Implementation Methods Group (CQIMG), London, UK
- University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Fiona Campbell
- EnSyGN Sheffield Evidence Synthesis Group, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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5
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Lazo Green K, Tan MMC, Johnson EE, Ahmed N, Eastaugh C, Beyer F, Craig D, Spiers GF, Hanratty B. Interventions for cold homes: a rapid review of the health impacts. Eur J Public Health 2024:ckae058. [PMID: 38587096 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckae058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cold homes are associated with an increased risk of adverse health outcomes for older people. To mitigate this risk, homes need to be heated to an appropriate temperature. This review aims to identify interventions designed to improve heating and temperatures within homes and summarize its impact on health, health service utilization and cost effectiveness. METHODS A rapid review was conducted. Studies assessing the effects of structural, financial, or behavioural interventions designed to improve home temperatures of residents aged 18+ years were eligible. Searches were carried out in four databases. A search for grey literature, and backward and forward citation searching were performed. Data were summarized in a narrative synthesis and mapped using EPPI-Reviewer and EPPI-Mapper software. RESULTS Eighteen studies reported across 19 publications were included. Structural interventions were associated with better mental health and quality of life, a reduction in health service utilization, and improvements in satisfaction with internal home temperature, social interactions and financial difficulties. The impact on physical health outcomes varied by age, gender and long-term conditions. Evidence about the impact of behavioural interventions was inconsistent. CONCLUSION Structural improvements to increase home temperatures may offer the potential to improve some aspects of health. However, the impact on physical health, including which groups are most likely to benefit, is unclear. Key gaps include the lack of evidence about the impact of financial interventions, and the impact of all types of interventions, on quality of life, mortality and costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Lazo Green
- Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit, National Institute for Health and Care Research, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Healthy Ageing Research Group, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, UK
| | - Michelle M C Tan
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Eugenie Evelynne Johnson
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Evidence Synthesis Group/Innovation Observatory, Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Nisar Ahmed
- Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit, National Institute for Health and Care Research, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Healthy Ageing Research Group, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, UK
| | - Claire Eastaugh
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Evidence Synthesis Group/Innovation Observatory, Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Fiona Beyer
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Evidence Synthesis Group/Innovation Observatory, Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Dawn Craig
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Evidence Synthesis Group/Innovation Observatory, Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Gemma F Spiers
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Evidence Synthesis Group/Innovation Observatory, Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Barbara Hanratty
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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6
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Sundaram A, Subramaniam H, Ab Hamid SH, Mohamad Nor A. An adaptive data-driven architecture for mental health care applications. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17133. [PMID: 38563009 PMCID: PMC10984189 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In the current era of rapid technological innovation, our lives are becoming more closely intertwined with digital systems. Consequently, every human action generates a valuable repository of digital data. In this context, data-driven architectures are pivotal for organizing, manipulating, and presenting data to facilitate positive computing through ensemble machine learning models. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic underscored a substantial need for a flexible mental health care architecture. This architecture, inclusive of machine learning predictive models, has the potential to benefit a larger population by identifying individuals at a heightened risk of developing various mental disorders. Objective Therefore, this research aims to create a flexible mental health care architecture that leverages data-driven methodologies and ensemble machine learning models. The objective is to proficiently structure, process, and present data for positive computing. The adaptive data-driven architecture facilitates customized interventions for diverse mental disorders, fostering positive computing. Consequently, improved mental health care outcomes and enhanced accessibility for individuals with varied mental health conditions are anticipated. Method Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, the researchers conducted a systematic literature review in databases indexed in Web of Science to identify the existing strengths and limitations of software architecture relevant to our adaptive design. The systematic review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023444661). Additionally, a mapping process was employed to derive essential paradigms serving as the foundation for the research architectural design. To validate the architecture based on its features, professional experts utilized a Likert scale. Results Through the review, the authors identified six fundamental paradigms crucial for designing architecture. Leveraging these paradigms, the authors crafted an adaptive data-driven architecture, subsequently validated by professional experts. The validation resulted in a mean score exceeding four for each evaluated feature, confirming the architecture's effectiveness. To further assess the architecture's practical application, a prototype architecture for predicting pandemic anxiety was developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Sundaram
- Institute for Advanced Studies, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hema Subramaniam
- Department of Software Engineering, Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Siti Hafizah Ab Hamid
- Department of Software Engineering, Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Azmawaty Mohamad Nor
- Department of Educational Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Education, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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7
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Fairman CM, Kava CM, Beima-Sofie K, Sakhuja M, Masud M, Dias E, Sheng J, Gorzelitz J, Morshed A, Green BB, Skiba MB, Madhivanan P, Parthasarathy N, Hirschey R, Vander Weg MW, Hebert J. Addressing differences in cancer: a framework for synergistic programming in cancer prevention and control. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4046415. [PMID: 38562683 PMCID: PMC10984020 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4046415/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Background Cancer remains a leading cause of death worldwide and continues to disproportionately impact certain populations. Several frameworks have been developed that illustrate the multiple determinants of cancer. Expanding upon the work of others, we present an applied framework for cancer prevention and control designed to help clinicians, as well as public health practitioners and researchers, better address differences in cancer outcomes. Methods The framework was developed by the Cancer Prevention and Control Research Network's Health Behaviors Workgroup. An initial framework draft was developed based on workgroup discussion, public health theory, and rapid literature review on the determinants of cancer. The framework was refined through interviews and focus groups with Federally Qualified Health Center providers (n=2) and cancer patients (n=2); participants were asked to provide feedback on the framework's causal pathways, completeness, and applicability to their work and personal life. Results The framework provides an overview of the relationships between sociodemographic inequalities, social and structural determinants, and key risk factors associated with cancer diagnosis, survivorship, and cancer morbidity and mortality across the lifespan. The framework emphasizes how health-risk behaviors like cigarette smoking interact with psychological, psychosocial, biological, and psychosocial risk factors, as well as healthcare-related behavior and other chronic diseases. Importantly, the framework emphasizes addressing social and structural determinants that influence health behaviors to reduce the burden of cancer and improve health equity. Aligned with previous theory, our framework underscores the importance of addressing co-occurring risk factors and disease states, understanding the complex relationships between factors that influence cancer, and assessing how multiple forms of inequality or disadvantage intersect to increase cancer risk across the lifespan. Conclusions This paper presents an applied framework for cancer prevention and control to address cancer differences. Because the framework highlights determinants and factors that influence cancer risk at multiple levels, it can be used to inform the development, implementation, and evaluation of interventions to address cancer morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - E Dias
- UTHealth Houston School of Public Health
| | - J Sheng
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
| | | | | | - B B Green
- Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute
| | | | | | | | - R Hirschey
- University of North Carolina and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center
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8
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Toorang F, Amiri P, Djazayery A, Pouraram H, Takian A. Worse becomes the worst: obesity inequality, its determinants and policy options in Iran. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1225260. [PMID: 38384892 PMCID: PMC10880032 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1225260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background This tracked obesity inequality and identified its determinants among the population of Iran. In addition, it examined the impact of implemented policies on these inequalities. Methods This study was performed in two phases. First, we conducted a rapid review of the disparity in obesity prevalence in Iran. Then we investigated the main determinants of this inequality in a qualitative study. In addition, we examined Iran's policies to deal with obesity from the perspective of equality. We conducted 30 Semi-structured interviews with various obesity stakeholders selected through a purposive snowball sampling method between November 25, 2019, and August 5, 2020. In the inductive approach, we used the content analysis method based on the Corbin and Status framework to analyze the data using MAXQDA-2020. The consolidating criteria for reporting a Qualitative Study (COREQ-32) were applied to conduct and report the study. Results Inequalities in the prevalence of obesity in terms of place of residence, gender, education, and other socioeconomic characteristics were identified in Iran. Participants believed that obesity and inequality are linked through immediate and intermediate causes. Inequality in access to healthy foods, physical activity facilities, and health care are the immediate causes of this inequality. Intermediate factors include inequality against women, children, and refugees, and inequality in access to information, education, and financial resources. Policymakers should implement equity-oriented obesity control policies such as taxing unhealthy foods, subsidizing healthy foods, providing healthy and free meals in schools, especially in disadvantaged areas, and providing nutrient-rich foods to low-income families. Also, environmental re-engineering to increase opportunities for physical activity should be considered. Of course, for the fundamental reduction of these inequalities, the comprehensive approach of all statesmen is necessary. Conclusion Obesity inequality is a health-threatening issue in Iran that can prevent achieving human development goals. Targeting the underlying causes of obesity, including inequalities, must be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Toorang
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Cancer Research Center, Cancer Institute of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Parisa Amiri
- Research Center for Social Determinants of Health, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abolghassem Djazayery
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Pouraram
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Takian
- Departments of Global Health and Public Policy, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department Health Management, Policy, and Economics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Health Equity Research Center (HERC), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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9
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Garritty C, Hamel C, Trivella M, Gartlehner G, Nussbaumer-Streit B, Devane D, Kamel C, Griebler U, King VJ. Updated recommendations for the Cochrane rapid review methods guidance for rapid reviews of effectiveness. BMJ 2024; 384:e076335. [PMID: 38320771 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2023-076335] [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: 02/15/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Chantelle Garritty
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1G 5Z3, Canada
- Global Health and Guidelines Division, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Candyce Hamel
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1G 5Z3, Canada
- Canadian Association of Radiologists, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Marialena Trivella
- Cochrane Austria, Department for Evidence-based Medicine and Evaluation, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Gerald Gartlehner
- Cochrane Austria, Department for Evidence-based Medicine and Evaluation, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
- Research Triangle Institute (RTI) International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Barbara Nussbaumer-Streit
- Cochrane Austria, Department for Evidence-based Medicine and Evaluation, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
| | - Declan Devane
- Cochrane Ireland and Evidence Synthesis Ireland, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Chris Kamel
- Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH), Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Ursula Griebler
- Cochrane Austria, Department for Evidence-based Medicine and Evaluation, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
| | - Valerie J King
- Center for Evidence-based Policy, Department of Family Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU), Portland, OR, USA
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10
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Parry M, Owadally T, O’Hara A, Nickerson N, Hart D. Community- and Patient-Partner Engagement in Women's Cardiovascular Disease Research: A Rapid Review of the Evidence. CJC Open 2024; 6:485-502. [PMID: 38487065 PMCID: PMC10935688 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjco.2023.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The primary objective of this rapid review is to describe community-partner and patient-partner engagement in women's cardiovascular disease (CVD) research. Secondary objectives are to: (i) describe the phase of the research in which community and patient partners were engaged; (ii) define the level of engagement at each research phase; and (iii) make recommendations for future engagement of community and/or patient partners in women's CVD research. Rapid review guidelines recommended by the Cochrane Rapid Reviews Methods Group and Tricco et al. were used to search 5 databases using medical subject headings (MeSH) and/or keywords. Participants included women (cis and trans) aged > 18 years who had ischemic heart disease, heart failure, or stroke. A risk of bias assessment was not undertaken. Findings are summarized and/or clustered as community-based participatory research, or patient-oriented and/or patient-partner research. Our search yielded 39,998 titles and abstracts. Of these, 35 were included in a final narrative synthesis, comprising data from 474 community and/or patient partners, including 417 (88%) women. Over 85% of community partners collaborated in the design and/or planning and implementation of women's CVD research; most originated in the US; only one originated in Canada. Most patient-oriented and patient-partner research originated in Canada. However, less than 50% of patient partners collaborated in any phase of research. Sex, gender, race, and ethnicity were rarely reported. Results suggest negligible community and inadequate patient-oriented and/or patient-partner engagement in women's CVD research in Canada. Improved CVD outcomes for women may be achieved with better community- and patient-partner collaboration across all phases of research, genders, race, and ethnicities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Parry
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tasneem Owadally
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Arland O’Hara
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Donna Hart
- Patient Partner, Milton, Ontario, Canada
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Affengruber L, Nussbaumer-Streit B, Hamel C, Van der Maten M, Thomas J, Mavergames C, Spijker R, Gartlehner G. Rapid review methods series: Guidance on the use of supportive software. BMJ Evid Based Med 2024:bmjebm-2023-112530. [PMID: 38242566 DOI: 10.1136/bmjebm-2023-112530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
This paper is part of a series of methodological guidance from the Cochrane Rapid Reviews Methods Group. Rapid reviews (RRs) use modified systematic review methods to accelerate the review process while maintaining systematic, transparent and reproducible methods. This paper guides how to use supportive software for RRs.We strongly encourage the use of supportive software throughout RR production. Specifically, we recommend (1) using collaborative online platforms that enable working in parallel, allow for real-time project management and centralise review details; (2) using automation software to support, but not entirely replace a human reviewer and human judgement and (3) being transparent in reporting the methodology and potential risk for bias due to the use of supportive software.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Affengruber
- Department for Evidence-based Medicine and Evaluation, Cochrane Austria, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
- Department of Family Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Barbara Nussbaumer-Streit
- Department for Evidence-based Medicine and Evaluation, Cochrane Austria, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
| | - Candyce Hamel
- Canadian Association of Radiologists, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Miriam Van der Maten
- Knowledge Institute, Dutch Association of Medical Specialists, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - James Thomas
- University College London, UCL Social Research Institute, London, UK
| | | | - Rene Spijker
- Cochrane Netherlands, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Gerald Gartlehner
- Department for Evidence-based Medicine and Evaluation, Cochrane Austria, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
- Center for Public Health Methods, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
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12
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Kirtania M, Katta A. Essential Elements of Home-based Palliative Care Model: A Rapid Review. Indian J Palliat Care 2023; 29:359-367. [PMID: 38058483 PMCID: PMC10696356 DOI: 10.25259/ijpc_227_2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The need for palliative care is increasing due to the rising burden of non-communicable diseases and some communicable diseases. Chronic illnesses demand patient-centred care that focuses on the patient's individual healthcare needs. Palliative care improves the patients' and caregivers' quality of life by providing pain and symptom relief through a holistic approach after the disease is diagnosed. Though there are various models followed in different countries, home-based palliative care is preferred by patients who wish to stay close to their loved ones at their end of life. For providing home-based care, there are certainly important elements that have to be taken care of before planning the implementation because every country has its own healthcare needs, system, and context. India is a developing country where isolated Palliative Care is practiced, hence the situation demands the need of addressing the essential elements that can be included in the protocol of home-based palliative care to enhance the quality of care. Therefore, this study aims to identify a few elements needed to provide home-based palliative care in the Indian context. A rapid review was conducted where seven studies were included that mentioned the elements of home-based palliative care. The electronic databases searched were MedLine, PubMed, and Cochrane databases of systematic reviews. The review was carried out over a period of 8 weeks in June and July 2022. Seven common essential themes were identified; (i) inter-sectoral and inter-professional cooperation, (ii) trust and safety, (iii) holistic management, (iv) non-academic palliative care, (v) spiritual care, (vi) support to caregivers, and (vii) funding and financial support. Our review of effective palliative care models explicates the essential elements for quality home-based care for patients with a terminal illness. The application of the elements must be relevant to the local context due to the huge diversity of the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mousami Kirtania
- Department of Public Health, School of Medical Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Ajitha Katta
- Department of Public Health, School of Medical Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
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