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Mitchell E, Bennett LR. Infertility in the Pacific: A crucial component of the sexual and reproductive health and rights agenda. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2024; 64:297-299. [PMID: 38263768 DOI: 10.1111/ajo.13791] [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: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Across Pacific Island countries, women and men are disproportionately affected by several risk factors for infertility, including sexually transmissible infections, complications from unsafe abortions, postpartum sepsis, obesity, diabetes, tobacco smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Despite this, little is known about community awareness of infertility, behavioural risk factors, the lived experiences of infertile couples or the contexts in which they access fertility care. In this opinion piece we discuss the current evidence and gaps in evidence regarding infertility in Pacific Island countries and the importance of locally tailored approaches to preventing infertility and the provision of fertility care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Mitchell
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Linda Rae Bennett
- Nossal Institute for Global Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Aladenola FB, Osemene KP, Ihekoronye RM. Evaluation of the participation of community pharmacists in family planning services: A nonrandomized controlled trial. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2024; 14:100430. [PMID: 38523832 PMCID: PMC10958471 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2024.100430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community pharmacists (CPs) are increasingly participating in family planning services (FPS) in different health systems but the underpinnings of effectiveness in these services remain poorly understood and rarely documented. Objectives This study examined knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of FPS among CPs and assessed the impact of an intervention on these indices. METHODS A nonrandomized controlled trial was conducted using two equivalent groups (n = 61 each) of randomly-selected CPs in Southwestern Nigeria. Intervention comprised a training package for the intervention group followed by a 2-month monitoring of participants' practices. Pre- and post-intervention data were collected using validated questionnaire and analyzed using appropriate descriptive (frequency, percentages, mean) and inferential statistics including chi-square test to examine association between categorical variables, and t-test to compare differences between means at alpha level of 0.05 for all statistical tests. RESULTS Pre-intervention knowledge of FPS in both groups was poor with no significant difference in their mean scores [t (120) = 0.34; p = 0.74]. Post-intervention, 79% of intervention group demonstrated good knowledge (controls remained poor), with significant difference in mean knowledge scores across the groups [t (120) = -33.59; p < 0.05*]. Pre-intervention attitude in both control (97%) and intervention group (95%) were negative. Post-intervention, 93% of intervention group exhibited positive attitude (controls remained negative), Mean difference 72.8 [t (120) = -77.21; p < 0.05*]. Preintervention practice scores were poor in control (92%) and intervention (90%) groups. Post-intervention, 83.6% of intervention group had good practice scores (controls remained poor), Mean difference 48.9 [t (120) = -31.0; p < 0.05*]. CONCLUSION Pre-intervention scores for KAP of FPS were poor among respondents. All the indices were significantly improved by the study intervention. Policy reforms are recommended to train CPs in the provision of FPS for enhanced reproductive health services.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kanayo Patrick Osemene
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Administration, Faculty of Pharmacy, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| | - Romanus Maduabuchi Ihekoronye
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Administration, Faculty of Pharmacy, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
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Auchus IC, Kama M, Bhuiyan RAK, Brown J, Dean D. Chlamydial and gonorrheal neglected sexually transmitted diseases among Pacific Islanders of the Western Pacific Region-A narrative review and call to action. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011171. [PMID: 36928890 PMCID: PMC10019716 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011171] [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: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The Pacific Island countries of the Western Pacific Region have some of the highest rates of sexually transmitted Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae infections in the world. Despite this, there are few research studies that include Pacific Islanders. We conducted a narrative review of original research and surveys, including World Health Organization and Pacific Community reports, to determine the prevalence, management, and treatment of C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae compared to HIV and syphilis from 1980 to 2022. Available epidemiologic data on C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae indicated an extremely high prevalence-approximately 30% and 13%, respectively-among Pacific Islanders during this timeframe. These neglected sexually transmitted infections represent a significant burden and health disparity. Robust epidemiologic research is needed to identify modifiable risk factors for designing interventions and control strategies. Appropriate policies along with regional and international advocacy and aid are required to improve reproductive health among these vulnerable, understudied populations to avert preventable infections and sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Catherine Auchus
- Department of Medicine and Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Mike Kama
- Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Suva, Fiji
| | | | - Joelle Brown
- Department of Medicine and Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Global Health Sciences Institute, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Deborah Dean
- Department of Medicine and Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Global Health Sciences Institute, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Benioff Center for Microbiome Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Ayers BL, Purvis RS, Callaghan-Koru J, Reece S, CarlLee S, Manning N, Langston K, Riklon S, McElfish PA. Marshallese Mothers' and Marshallese Maternal Healthcare Providers' Perspectives on Contraceptive Use and Reproductive Life Planning Practices and Influences. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3949. [PMID: 36900960 PMCID: PMC10001766 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20053949] [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] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Pacific Islander communities experience significant maternal and infant health disparities including high maternal and infant mortality. Contraception and reproductive life planning prevent approximately one-third of pregnancy-related deaths and neonatal deaths. We report the results of formative research devoted to understanding Marshallese mothers' as well as their maternal healthcare providers' practices and influences related to contraceptive use and reproductive life planning. This study used an exploratory, descriptive qualitative design to explore Marshallese mothers' and maternal healthcare providers' practices and influences of contraception use and reproductive life planning. Twenty participants were enrolled in the study, 15 Marshallese mothers and five Marshallese maternal healthcare providers. For the Marshallese mothers, two themes emerged: (1) Reproductive Life Planning Practices and Information; and (2) Reproductive Life Planning Influences. For the Marshallese maternal healthcare providers, two themes emerged: (1) Reproductive Life Planning Practices; and (2) Reproductive Life Planning Influences. This is the first study to document Marshallese mothers' and maternal healthcare providers' practices and influences with contraceptive use and reproductive life planning. Study results will inform the development of a culturally-adapted contraception and reproductive life planning tool with an educational program for Marshallese family units and maternal healthcare providers serving Marshallese women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Britni L. Ayers
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, 2708 S. 48th St., Springdale, AR 72762, USA
| | - Rachel S. Purvis
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, 2708 S. 48th St., Springdale, AR 72762, USA
| | - Jennifer Callaghan-Koru
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, 2708 S. 48th St., Springdale, AR 72762, USA
| | - Sharon Reece
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, 1125 N. College Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Sheena CarlLee
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, 1125 N. College Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Nirvana Manning
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Krista Langston
- Office of Community Health and Research, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, 2708 S. 48th St, Springdale, AR 72762, USA
| | - Sheldon Riklon
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, 2708 S. 48th St., Springdale, AR 72762, USA
| | - Pearl A. McElfish
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, 2708 S. 48th St., Springdale, AR 72762, USA
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Barriers and enablers to young people accessing sexual and reproductive health services in Pacific Island Countries and Territories: A scoping review. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280667. [PMID: 36701390 PMCID: PMC9879431 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of young people utilising sexual and reproductive health services in Pacific Island Countries and Territories remains poor despite the availability and the existence of the fundamental rights to access these services. Adolescents and youth need accurate information and timely access to contraceptives to prevent adverse consequences associated with unintended pregnancies, abortion, childbirth and untreated sexually transmitted infections. This scoping review identifies and analyses factors contributing to young people's low access to sexual and reproductive health information and services in this region. METHODS Guided by the PRISMA Scoping review guidelines, we searched three databases (Medline Ovid, Scopus and CINAHL Complete) for peer-reviewed articles published between 1st January 2000 and 31st August 2020 that reported on factors, including barriers and enablers, affecting access to sexual and reproductive health information and services by young people living in Pacific Island Countries and Territories. We assessed the quality of each study according to the study designs, methods of data collection, data analysis and ethical considerations. All information was sorted and organised using an Excel Spreadsheet. Text data from published articles were charted inductively using thematic analysis with no predetermined codes and themes. FINDINGS Five hundred eighty-nine articles were screened, and only eight met the inclusion criteria outlined in this scoping review protocol. These eight articles reported studies conducted in four Pacific Island Countries and Territories: Cook Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and Vanuatu. Factors such as lack of accurate sexual and reproductive health knowledge and social stigma were the leading causes of young people's limited access to sexual and reproductive health services. Cultural and religious beliefs also invoked stigmatising behaviours in some family and community members. CONCLUSION This scoping review revealed that social stigma and judgemental attitudes imposed by family and community members, including healthcare providers, hinder young unmarried individuals in Pacific Island Countries and Territories from accessing sexual and reproductive health information and contraceptives. Alternatively, a non-judgmental healthcare provider is perceived as an enabler in accessing sexual and reproductive health information and services. Moreover, given that only a few studies have actually focused on young people's sexual and reproductive health needs in the region, more research is required to fully understand the health-seeking behaviours of young people in their specific contexts.
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Mungall-Baldwin C. Women's participation in the prevention and control of dengue using environmental methods in the global south: a qualitative meta-synthesis. Int J Equity Health 2022; 21:140. [PMID: 36151547 PMCID: PMC9508726 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-022-01726-0] [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: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dengue, a mosquito-borne viral disease, causes significant mortality and morbidity in low- to middle-income countries. A body of research indicates that women can be effective in implementing vector borne disease control, but they still face inequitable opportunities for participation, leadership and decision-making in the execution of dengue prevention and vector control programmes. Yet implementing informal environmental management practices to prevent mosquito vector breeding forms part of their domestic household responsibilities. Understanding the enablers and barriers to women’s equitable roles with men in formal and informal disease prevention, and the benefits of their participation could help to increase their role and may be a contributing factor to reducing disease rates. The objective of this qualitative meta-synthesis was to synthesise evidence about women’s roles in dengue prevention and control in the global south and generate insights around the barriers, enablers, and benefits. Methods Eight databases were searched from inception to 7th December 2020. One investigator independently reviewed all titles and abstracts for relevant articles. Grey literature was searched using 34 websites of global health and international development organisations. Results A total of 18 articles representing qualitative research or the qualitative component of mixed methods studies from Latin American and Caribbean (n = 8), Asia (n = 9), and one international review were included in the meta-synthesis. Relevant scholarship from Africa was lacking. This meta-synthesis revealed five unique themes surrounding women’s participation, seven categories of barriers, six of enablers, four health, well-being and social benefits for individuals, and four for communities . Conclusion An analysis of the results confirmed that women’s participation in dengue prevention was not gender equitable, gender sensitive nor transformative although women are the primary human resource for household and community-based prevention. Women demonstrated specific qualities aiding successful implementation. Corrective action is urgently needed to shift unhelpful gender norms, and empower women into leadership and decision-making roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathy Mungall-Baldwin
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, 1 Lilybank Gardens, Glasgow, G12 8RZ, Scotland, UK. .,School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales, UNSW Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
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Cheer K, Harrington RB, Esau D, Foroasi E, Redman-MacLaren M. Women's understanding and experiences of menopause in low-income and middle-income countries in the Asia Pacific region: a scoping review protocol. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e060316. [PMID: 35868822 PMCID: PMC9316029 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-060316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Menopause denotes the end of a woman's reproductive life. A woman's experiences of menopause are shaped by her individual circumstances and may vary between social and cultural contexts. Evidence is needed to inform research and programme delivery that supports women's health and well-being throughout the menopausal transition. This scoping review will map evidence of women's experiences of menopause in Asia Pacific countries, where limited research exists. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will follow the five-stage framework of Arksey and O'Malley, further developed by Levac et al and the Joanna Briggs Institute. MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Scopus databases will be systematically searched between February 2022 and May 2022 using subject headings and keywords. The title-abstract and full text of retrieved studies will be assessed against eligibility criteria. The review will focus on studies with a qualitative research component. Citation searching of selected articles will supplement database searching. Data will be extracted, charted, synthesised and summarised. Findings will be presented in narrative format and implications for research and practice reported. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval is not required for this scoping review of selected studies from peer-reviewed journals. Ethical approval has been granted from relevant ethics committees for community consultation. Findings will be shared in peer-reviewed publications, presented at conferences and disseminated with communities, health workers and researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Cheer
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Relmah Baritama Harrington
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
- Atoifi College of Nursing, Pacific Adventist University, Atoifi, Solomon Islands
| | - Dorothy Esau
- Baru Conservation Alliance, Auki, Solomon Islands
| | - Emmy Foroasi
- Baru Conservation Alliance, Auki, Solomon Islands
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Cutrer-Parraga B, Allen GEK, Conklin H, Hee C, Miller E, Chapman R, Gancinia B, Roan M, Norton A. Culture-Centered Psychotherapy Preferences for Polynesian Americans: An Interpretative Phenomenological Approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF COUNSELLING 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10447-022-09472-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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