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Murali A, Sojati J, Levochkina M, Pressimone C, Griffith K, Fan E, Dakroub A. A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Community Perceptions of Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines at Turtle Creek Primary Care Center. COMMUNITY HEALTH EQUITY RESEARCH & POLICY 2024; 44:439-451. [PMID: 37837451 DOI: 10.1177/2752535x231205665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Influenza (flu) and COVID-19 vaccination rates are subpar across the US, especially in racial and/or socioeconomic minority groups who are understudied in public health literature. OBJECTIVE The objective of this mixed-methods study was to elucidate attitudes of patients at the Turtle Creek Primary Care Center, a clinic that cares for ∼70% non-white patients, towards flu and COVID-19 vaccines, with the goal of establishing vaccine education gaps and increasing vaccine uptake in minority communities. DESIGN/PATIENTS This study was conducted as a cross-sectional analysis. Authors completed 123 patient phone surveys of patients cared for at the Turtle Creek clinic inquiring about flu and COVID-19 infection status and vaccination uptake (August 26-October 10, 2021). APPROACH/KEY RESULTS We found that rates of vaccination were subpar in the Turtle Creek community, with only 54% having received the COVID-19 vaccine and only 44% receiving the flu vaccine regularly. There was a strong association between COVID-19 and flu vaccine acceptance and a notable correlation between vaccine acceptance and age. When assessing how vaccine acceptance was influenced by trusted sources of information, those who cited trusting "medical professionals" and "word of mouth" had higher odds of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance but those who cited trusting "social media" had decreased odds of acceptance. Finally, we uncovered 14 common factors for either vaccine acceptance or refusal that clustered into four overarching themes of trust, need, safety, and availability. CONCLUSION These data highlight the necessity of improved vaccine education and reveal targetable populations and approaches for disseminating vaccine information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjana Murali
- School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jorna Sojati
- School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Marina Levochkina
- School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Kobi Griffith
- School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Erica Fan
- School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Allie Dakroub
- Department of General Internal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Schwarz A, Alpers F, Wagner-Olfermann E, Diers-Lawson A. The Global Study of COVID News: Scope, Findings, and Implications of Quantitative Content Analyses of the COVID-19 News Coverage in the First Two Years of the Pandemic. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024; 39:1568-1581. [PMID: 37366034 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2023.2226932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Researchers and practitioners have unanimously acknowledged the impact of legacy media coverage of past pandemics as well as COVID-19 and its importance for health-related risk communication. Therefore, this study provides scholars and health communication practitioners with a deeper understanding of the patterns, main themes, and limitations of media reporting and peer-reviewed research in the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in different national media environments. Because the objective is to evaluate patterns, this paper focuses on early quantitative and automated content analyses for theoretical contribution, geographic diversity, methodological rigor, and inclusion of risk and crisis communication theory. It also assesses whether authors deduced implications, for both theory and practice of health-related risk and crisis communication. We conducted a content analysis of 66 studies in peer-reviewed journals from the beginning of the pandemic until April 2022. The findings demonstrate that early quantitative analyses of the news coverage of COVID-19 are often not theory-driven, apply heterogeneous forms of framing analysis, and lack references to risk and crisis communication theory. Consequently, only few implications for health communication practice during pandemics were drawn. However, there is evidence of improvement in geographic scope compared to previous research. The discussion addresses the importance of developing a consistent approach to framing analyses of risk and crisis media coverage and the importance of well-designed cross-cultural research in a global pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Schwarz
- Department of Economic Sciences and Media, Technische Universität Ilmenau
| | - Francis Alpers
- Department of Economic Sciences and Media, Technische Universität Ilmenau
| | | | - Audra Diers-Lawson
- School of Communication, Leadership and Marketing, Kristiania University College
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Chen LP, Singh-Verdeflor K, Kelly MM, Sklansky DJ, Shadman KA, Edmonson MB, Zhao Q, DeMuri GP, Coller RJ. Disparities in COVID-19 vaccine intentions, testing and trusted sources by household language for children with medical complexity. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0305553. [PMID: 38875256 PMCID: PMC11178204 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0305553] [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: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Children with medical complexity experienced health disparities during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Language may compound these disparities since people speaking languages other than English (LOE) also experienced worse COVID-19 outcomes. Our objective was to investigate associations between household language for children with medical complexity and caregiver COVID-19 vaccine intentions, testing knowledge, and trusted sources of information. METHODS This cross-sectional survey of caregivers of children with medical complexity ages 5 to 17 years was conducted from April-June 2022. Children with medical complexity had at least 1 Complex Chronic Condition. Households were considered LOE if they reported speaking any language other than English. Multivariable logistic regression examined associations between LOE and COVID-19 vaccine intentions, interpretation of COVID-19 test results, and trusted sources of information. RESULTS We included 1,338 caregivers of children with medical complexity (49% response rate), of which 133 (10%) had household LOE (31 total languages, 58% being Spanish). There was no association between household LOE and caregiver COVID-19 vaccine intentions. Caregivers in households with LOE had similar interpretations of positive COVID-19 test results, but significantly different interpretations of negative results. Odds of interpreting a negative test as expected (meaning the child does not have COVID-19 now or can still get the virus from others) were lower in LOE households (aOR [95% CI]: 0.56 [0.34-0.95]). Households with LOE were more likely to report trusting the US government to provide COVID-19 information (aOR [95% CI]: 1.86 [1.24-2.81]). CONCLUSION Differences in COVID-19 test interpretations based on household language for children with medical complexity were observed and could contribute to disparities in outcomes. Opportunities for more inclusive public health messaging likely exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura P. Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Kristina Singh-Verdeflor
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Michelle M. Kelly
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Daniel J. Sklansky
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Kristin A. Shadman
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - M. Bruce Edmonson
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Qianqian Zhao
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Gregory P. DeMuri
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Ryan J. Coller
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
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Gamillscheg P, Mayer S, Pietrzak-Franger M, Hilmar C, Lange A, Simon J, Łaszewska A. Understanding the associations between information sources, sociodemographics, and views on public health measures: evidence from the COVID-19 pandemic in Austria. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1576. [PMID: 38867264 PMCID: PMC11167807 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19061-0] [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: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, it was a key priority for governments globally to ensure agreement with, and subsequently adherence to, imposed public health measures, specifically non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs). Prior research in this regard highlighted the role of COVID-19 information sources as well as sociodemographic and other personal characteristics, however, there is only limited evidence including both. To bridge this gap, this study investigated the associations of COVID-19 information sources such as social media and participant characteristics with agreement with and adherence to NPIs during the first lockdown in Austria. METHODS An online survey was conducted in May 2020 among adult Austrian residents asking about their experiences during the first lockdown. Collected data included sociodemographic characteristics, main COVID-19-related information sources, agreement with/adherence to three NPIs (no physical contact to family members not living in the same household, leisurely walks restricted to members of the same household, mandatory face masks) and information about perceived social support using the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), anxiety/depression levels using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), whether participants felt well advised by the government, and whether participants perceived the pandemic to threaten their income. Ordered and multinomial logistic regression models were employed to achieve the research aims. RESULTS The cross-sectional sample consisted of 559 Austrian residents. Using social media as main COVID-19 information source was consistently associated with lower agreement with NPIs. A positive association with agreement with measures was found for higher educational backgrounds and higher anxiety levels. By contrast, higher levels of depression, not feeling well advised by the government, and perceiving the pandemic as an economic threat were negatively associated with agreement with measures. Moreover, the use of social media as main COVID-19 information source and not feeling well advised by the government were associated with lower adherence to NPIs. By contrast, higher levels of education were associated with higher adherence. CONCLUSIONS This comprehensive analysis emphasizes the associations of COVID-19 information sources as well as sociodemographic and other participant characteristics with agreement with and adherence to NPIs, bearing important implications for future public health crisis communication strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Gamillscheg
- Department of Health Economics, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Kinderspitalgasse 15/1, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Susanne Mayer
- Department of Health Economics, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Kinderspitalgasse 15/1, Vienna, 1090, Austria.
| | - Monika Pietrzak-Franger
- Department of English and American Studies, University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 2, Hof 8.3 (Campus), Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Carina Hilmar
- Department of English and American Studies, University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 2, Hof 8.3 (Campus), Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Alina Lange
- Department of English and American Studies, University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 2, Hof 8.3 (Campus), Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Judit Simon
- Department of Health Economics, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Kinderspitalgasse 15/1, Vienna, 1090, Austria
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, OX3 7JX, UK
| | - Agata Łaszewska
- Department of Health Economics, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Kinderspitalgasse 15/1, Vienna, 1090, Austria
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Wang D, Lu J, Zhou J, Wong VKW. Useful or not? The discussion of traditional Chinese medicine to treat COVID-19 on a Chinese social networking site. BMJ Glob Health 2024; 9:e014398. [PMID: 38857946 PMCID: PMC11168149 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-014398] [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: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The use of traditional medicine is a global phenomenon, and the WHO advocated its appropriate integration into modern healthcare systems. However, there is a hot debate about the legitimacy of traditional medicine among the general public. Here, we investigated the debate in the Chinese digital context by analysing 1954 responses related to 100 questions about traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatment against COVID-19 on the Zhihu platform. Attitude function theory was applied to understand the reasons underlying public attitudes.Results showed that Zhihu users generally held a supportive attitude toward TCM. Their attitudes mainly came from their own experience and traditional media. The general users were more negative while medical professionals were more positive toward TCM. Ego defence (eg, derogating evidence sources) was used the most to support attitudes, followed by value expression (eg, believing in science). Supporters showed fewer expressions of faith (eg, the use of TCM is a kind of faith), politics (eg, supporting TCM is about politics) and science value (eg, TCM is a field of science), fewer ego defence, more patriotism and cultural confidence expressions (eg, TCM is a cultural pride) and more knowledge explanation (eg, TCM accelerates the metabolism of phlegm) than expected. Opposers showed fewer utilitarian and knowledge functions, fewer expressions of patriotism and more expressions of faith, politics and economics, but more ego defence functions than expected. Opposing posts were more likely to attract engagement than supporting and neutral posts. Posts that mentioned attitude functions generally attracted more engagement.Our findings indicate that TCM debate in modern China is not only relevant to medical science and health, but also rooted deeply in cultural ideology, politics and economics. The findings can provide global insights into the development of proactive policies and action plans that will help the integration of traditional medicine into modern healthcare systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Wang
- Faculty of Humanities and Art, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao
- Disease AI Laboratory on Epidemic and Medical Big Data Instrument Applications, Faculty of Innovation Engineering, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao
| | - Jiahui Lu
- School of New Media and Communication, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiaming Zhou
- Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Vincent Kam Wai Wong
- Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao
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Beans C. Can the 19th-century An Enemy of the People speak to today's science communication challenges? Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2409349121. [PMID: 38809706 PMCID: PMC11161771 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2409349121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
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Gatellier L, Charvat H, Ito Y, Matsuda T. Do the general public get cancer statistics?-a questionnaire survey in Japan. Jpn J Clin Oncol 2024; 54:537-548. [PMID: 38336473 DOI: 10.1093/jjco/hyae007] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The public does not always understand key information conveyed by epidemiologists and statisticians. The purpose of this study was to understand the level of public access to, trust in, and comprehension of, cancer statistics through a population-based survey in Japan. METHODS We used an online research method, requesting online responses to a 15-question questionnaire. The survey was sent to males and females aged 20 years and older, selected by sex, age and prefecture to match the national population proportions shown in the latest census. The final number of valid responses was 10 477. The statistical analyses mainly used χ2 testing. RESULTS Respondents were not frequently exposed to cancer statistics regardless of sex or age group, nor did they necessarily have confidence in the statistics. The increase of collected information and trust in cancer statistics was aligned with increasing age and cancer exposure. Respondents found Relative Risk and Relative Survival Rate easier to understand and more useful than the Standardized Incidence Ratio. In addition, those with cancer experience, higher income and were elderly gave more accurate responses when asked questions related to cancer incidence and probability of getting cancer. CONCLUSIONS Our respondents showed limited familiarity with cancer statistical indicators. Enhanced awareness of indicators such as infographics and visual tools has the potential to enhance cancer visibility, thereby promoting public prevention and early detection efforts. Educating cancer patients about pertinent indicators can boost their confidence in managing their condition. Conversely, the introduction of indicators unrelated to the public should be discouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laureline Gatellier
- Division of International Health Policy Research, Institute for Cancer Control, National Cancer Center, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan
| | - Hadrien Charvat
- Faculty of International Liberal Arts, Juntendo University, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Yuri Ito
- Department of Medical Statistics, Research & Development Center Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, 2-7 Daigaku-machi, Takatsuki City, Osaka 569-8686 Japan
| | - Tomohiro Matsuda
- Division of International Health Policy Research, Institute for Cancer Control, National Cancer Center, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-Ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan
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Liu YW, Tang CC. Health Beliefs, Protective Behaviors, and Information-Seeking. Nurs Res 2024; 73:158-165. [PMID: 38193910 DOI: 10.1097/nnr.0000000000000712] [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: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The outbreak of COVID-19 caused severe damage to public health globally and served as a stark reminder of the potential for future pandemics. Promoting protective behaviors to prevent the spread of any contagious disease thus remains a priority. Although research has shown that health beliefs can affect protective behaviors, few studies have examined the role of information-seeking in this relationship. OBJECTIVES On the basis of the health belief model, this research focused on whether health beliefs affect personal protective behaviors through health information-seeking behaviors. METHODS This cross-sectional study with a causal-comparative design used an online questionnaire to investigate the Taiwanese public's health beliefs, protective behaviors, and information-seeking behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. RESULTS Between September 2021 and January 2022, 322 valid questionnaires were collected. The results revealed that the effects of two health beliefs-self-efficacy and perceived benefits-on handwashing, social distancing, practicing good cough etiquette, and keeping one's environment clean and well ventilated were partially mediated by the frequency of official information-seeking. DISCUSSION Results of this study support the regular and timely promotion of pandemic prevention measures through official sites. Promoting official information-seeking can help enhance protective behaviors.
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Hurley EA, Tharmarajah S, de Mahy G, Rassp J, Salvatore J, Jones JP, Harvey SA. Audience Response to COVID Monologues: Research-Based Theater on the Societal Impact of COVID-19. Am J Health Promot 2024; 38:412-426. [PMID: 37983664 PMCID: PMC10903126 DOI: 10.1177/08901171231216204] [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: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Research-based theater uses drama to communicate research findings to audiences beyond those that typically read peer-reviewed journals. We applied research-based theater to translate qualitative research findings on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on different segments of U.S. society. APPROACH Theater artists and public health researchers collaborated to create a collection of eight monologues from systematically sourced, peer-reviewed publications. Following three virtual performances in Spring, 2021, audience members were invited to complete a survey. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Audience survey respondents (n = 120) were mostly U.S.-based and were diverse in terms of age, race/ethnicity, gender, profession, and experience attending theater. METHOD We summarized closed-ended responses and explored patterns by demographic characteristics. We synthesized themes of open-ended responses with inductive coding. RESULTS Audience members somewhat/strongly agreed that COVID Monologues increased their knowledge (79.4%), represented the reality of the U.S. COVID-19 epidemic (95.7%), and offered new perspectives on what people had been experiencing (87.5%). Most also agreed research-based theater is an effective means of understanding health research (93.5%) and can promote community resilience in times of public health crisis (83.2%). Mann-Whitney U tests suggested less positive reactions from demographics that were not well-represented in monologue characters (cisgender men, Hispanics). Qualitative comments suggested audience members valued monologues that offered self-reflection and validation of their own COVID-19 experiences through relatable characters as well as those that offered insight into the experiences of people different from themselves. CONCLUSION This work adds to evidence that research-based theater can help build knowledge and emotional insight around a public health issue. As these elements are foundational to pro-social, preventative health behaviors, research-based theater may have a useful role in promoting collective response to public health crises like COVID-19. Our method of systematically-sourcing research for theater-based dissemination could be extended to target more specific audiences with actionable behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A. Hurley
- Division of Health Services and Outcomes Research, Children’s Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO, USA
- Department of Population Health, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Saraniya Tharmarajah
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Jess Rassp
- Independent Theater Artist, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Joe Salvatore
- Department of Music and Performing Arts Professions, New York University, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Jonathan P. Jones
- Department of Music and Performing Arts Professions, New York University, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Steven A. Harvey
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Abdi N, Flores M, Hara-Hubbard KK, Turner AM, Gudino J, Jafry S, Harris JR, Hannon PA, Baquero B, Meischke H. Bridging Culture and Language: Encouraging Bilingual/Multicultural Individuals to Act as Information Navigators for Their Loved-Ones and Communities during the COVID-19 Pandemic. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024; 29:34-48. [PMID: 37961888 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2023.2279670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Linguistically diverse communities face barriers to receiving appropriate health information. COVID-19 exacerbated these health-communication inequities. University of Washington researchers surveyed bilingual staff, students, and medical interpreters - desiring training to become effective communicators of COVID-19 information to their social networks and language communities. In response, the COVID-19 Information Navigator Training was developed and pre-tested with professional networks and members of the target audience. The final training comprised three interactive modules and short quizzes. Evaluation surveys measured Information Navigators' confidence in providing COVID-19 information to their social networks. Surveys included questions on the participants' language or cultural community, the perceived value of the training, and their ability to communicate COVID-19 information. Among 393 participants who enrolled in the training, 284 completed the survey. Significant differences in confidence before and after the course were found in detecting COVID misinformation in the news and social media (pre-course mean: 3.83, post-course mean: 4.63; absolute mean difference was 0.82 points higher in the post-evaluation on the 5-point likert scale, 95% CI: 0.70-0.93, p < .01). Training multicultural volunteers to disseminate information to their social networks is a promising strategy for reaching linguistically diverse communities with up-to-date information during health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najma Abdi
- School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Miriam Flores
- School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | - Anne M Turner
- School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Juan Gudino
- School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Sheharbano Jafry
- College of Arts and Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jeffrey R Harris
- School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Peggy A Hannon
- School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Barbara Baquero
- School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Hendrika Meischke
- School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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11
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Yihun A, Ambaw F, Yigzaw ZA. Lived Experiences of Hospitalized Patients With Coronavirus Disease at Tibebe Ghion Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Bahir Dar, North West Ethiopia, A Phenomenological Study. Dimens Crit Care Nurs 2024; 43:28-35. [PMID: 38059710 DOI: 10.1097/dcc.0000000000000617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hospitalized patients with coronavirus disease experienced different challenges at treatment centers; however, there is no evidence in Ethiopia on patients' experiences at COVID-19 treatment centers. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the lived experiences of hospitalized patients with coronavirus disease at Tibebe Ghion Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, in 2021. METHODS A qualitative phenomenological study design with a heterogeneous purposive sampling technique was used. Fifteen hospitalized patients participated from March 15 to April 1, 2021. The information was gathered through an in-depth interview technique with an audio recorder. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data using Atlas Ti version 7.09 software. RESULT Hospitalized patients with the coronavirus disease had a variety of experiences with various phenomena. Lived experiences were identified with 2 major themes: the psychoemotional theme has 2 subthemes (psychological and emotional experience), and the context-related experience has 5 subthemes (socioeconomic, patient-health care provider, health facility-related, exposure prevention, and governmental-related factors). CONCLUSION The study identified 2 major themes: 7 subthemes and 10 categories. Study participants faced different challenges, mainly hopelessness, anxiety, a lack of caregiver, isolation, a shortage of medications, poor communication between the patient and health care provider, and a lack of health insurance. Therefore, we recommend giving psychological support, improving communication between patients and health care professionals, and ensuring health insurance.
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Chery MJ, Dubique K, Higgins JM, Faure PA, Phillips R, Morris S, Clisbee M, Conserve DF, Ricthwood T, Lefruit RM, Hedt-Gauthier BL. COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in three rural communes in Haiti: A cross-sectional study. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2204048. [PMID: 37157153 PMCID: PMC10171132 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2204048] [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: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccines are the most effective mechanism for ending the COVID-19 pandemic. However, reluctance to accept vaccines has hindered the efforts of health authorities to combat the virus. In Haiti, as of July 2021, less than 1% of the country's population has been fully vaccinated in part due to vaccine hesitancy. Our goal was to assess Haitian attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccination and investigate the primary reasons for Moderna vaccine hesitancy. We conducted a cross-sectional survey across three rural Haitian communities, in September 2021. The research team used electronic tablets to collect quantitative data from 1,071 respondents, selected randomly across the communities. We report descriptive statistics and identify variables associated with vaccine acceptance using logistic regression built using a backward stepwise approach. Among 1,071 respondents, the overall acceptance rate was 27.0% (n = 285). The most common reason for vaccine hesitancy was "concern about side effects" (n = 484, 67.1%) followed by "concern about contracting COVID-19 from the vaccine" (n = 472, 65.4%). Three-quarters of respondents (n = 817) identified their healthcare workers as their most trustworthy source for information related to the vaccine. In the bivariate analysis, male gender (p = .06) and no history of drinking alcohol (p < .001) were significantly associated with being more likely to take the vaccine. In the final reduced model, only those with a history of drinking alcohol were significantly more likely to take the vaccine (aOR = 1.47 (1.23, 1.87) p < .001). The acceptance rate for the COVID-19 vaccine is low, and public health experts should design and strengthen vaccination campaigns to combat misinformation and public distrust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurice J Chery
- Research Department, Zanmi Lasante/Partners in Health Mirebalais: Hopital Universitaire de Mirebalais, Mirebalais, Haiti
| | - Kobel Dubique
- Research Department, Zanmi Lasante/Partners in Health Mirebalais: Hopital Universitaire de Mirebalais, Mirebalais, Haiti
| | - Julia M Higgins
- Strategic Information Systems, Partners in Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Peterson Abnis Faure
- Research Department, Zanmi Lasante/Partners in Health Mirebalais: Hopital Universitaire de Mirebalais, Mirebalais, Haiti
| | - Roslyn Phillips
- Research Department, Zanmi Lasante/Partners in Health Mirebalais: Hopital Universitaire de Mirebalais, Mirebalais, Haiti
| | - Sarah Morris
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mary Clisbee
- Research Department, Zanmi Lasante/Partners in Health Mirebalais: Hopital Universitaire de Mirebalais, Mirebalais, Haiti
| | - Donaldson F Conserve
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services: The George Washington University Milken Institute of Public Health, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Tiarney Ricthwood
- Department of Medicine & Community Health and Global Health, Duke Institute of Global Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Ralph M Lefruit
- Research Department, Zanmi Lasante/Partners in Health Mirebalais: Hopital Universitaire de Mirebalais, Mirebalais, Haiti
| | - Bethany L Hedt-Gauthier
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- The Cross-Site COVID-19 Cohort Technical Working Group is Composed of the Following Members- Partners In Health/Boston: Jean Claude Mugunga, Donald Fejfar, Stefanie Joseph; Partners In Health/Haiti: Wesler Lambert, Mary Clisbee, Fernet Leandre; Partners In Health/Liberia: Prince F. Varney; Partners In Health/Lesotho: Melino Ndayizigiye, Patrick Nkundanyirazo, Afom Andom; Partners In Health/Malawi: Emilia Connolly, Chiyembekezo Kachimanga, Fabien Munyaneza; Partners In Health/Mexico: Zeus Aranda; Partners In Health/Peru: Jesus Peinado, Marco Tovar; Partners In Health/Rwanda: Vincent Cubaka, Nadine Karema; Partners In Health/Sierra Leone: Foday Boima, Gregory Jerome; Harvard Medical School: Bethany Hedt-Gauthier, Isabel Fulcher, Dale Barnhart, Megan Murray
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13
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Silva S, Machado H, Galasso I, Zimmermann BM, Botrugno C. Narratives about distributed health literacy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Health (London) 2023:13634593231215715. [PMID: 38095184 DOI: 10.1177/13634593231215715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
The promotion of health literacy was a key public health strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the role of social networks and relationships for support with health literacy-related tasks in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic is scarcely understood. Moving beyond traditional notions of health literacy, which focus on individual skills and knowledge, this study uses the concept of distributed health literacy to explore how individuals make meaning of and respond to health literacy and make their literacy skills available to others through their relational and socially situated and lived experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on 89 semi-structured interviews conducted in three European countries (Italy, Portugal, and Switzerland) between October and December 2021, we found narratives of stabilization, hybridization, and disruption that show how health literacy concerning COVID-19 is a complex social construct intertwined with emotional, cognitive, and behavioral responses distributed among individuals, communities, and institutions within socioeconomic and political contexts that affect their existence. This paper opens new empirical directions to understand the critical engagement of individuals and communities toward health information aimed at making sense of a complex and prolonged situation of uncertainty in a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Silva
- Institute for Social Sciences, University of Minho, Portugal
- Centre for Research in Anthropology (CRIA-UMinho/IN2PAST), Portugal
| | - Helena Machado
- Institute for Social Sciences, University of Minho, Portugal
| | - Ilaria Galasso
- University College Dublin, Ireland
- Institute of History and Ethics in Medicine, Department of Clinical Medicine, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Germany
| | - Bettina M Zimmermann
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Switzerland
- Institute of History and Ethics in Medicine, Department of Clinical Medicine, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Germany
- Institute of Philosophy & Multidisciplinary Center for Infectious Diseases, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Carlo Botrugno
- Research Unit on Everyday Bioethics and Ethics of Science, Department of Legal Sciences, University of Florence, Italy
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14
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Grage L, Cuellar MJ. Did text-based news-media coverage about the COVID-19 pandemic increase vaccine uptake? A population-based study in Alaska. Int J Circumpolar Health 2023; 82:2213913. [PMID: 37216574 DOI: 10.1080/22423982.2023.2213913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 vaccinations protect against severe infection, hospitalisation, and death. News media can be an important source of information for the public during a health crisis. This study explores the extent to which local or statewide text-based news coverage of the pandemic was related to the uptake of initial doses of COVID-19 vaccines among adults in Alaska. Multilevel modelling was employed to explore the association between news media intensity and vaccine uptake rates across boroughs and census areas, while controlling for relevant covariates. Results suggest that the intensity of news media did not significantly influence vaccine uptake during the majority of this time period and had a negative affect during the Delta-surge in the fall of 2021. However, the political lean and median age of boroughs or census areas were significantly associated with vaccine uptake. Race, poverty, or education were not significant determinants of vaccine uptake suggesting there are unique differences in Alaska compared to the U.S., particularly amongst Alaska Native people. The political environment in Alaska surrounding the pandemic was polarized. Future research in communications and channels that can cut through this polarized and politicized environment, and reach younger adults is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Grage
- College of Health, Division of Population Health Sciences, University of Alaska Anchorage, Anchorage, Alaska, USA
| | - Matthew J Cuellar
- College of Health, School of Social Work, University of Alaska Anchorage, Anchorage, Alaska, USA
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15
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Kroll C, McQueen A, De La Vega V, Marsh AK, Poor T, Verdecias N, Caburnay C, Kreuter MW. Trusted sources for COVID-19 testing and vaccination: lessons for future health communication. JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION IN HEALTHCARE 2023; 16:350-357. [PMID: 37695124 PMCID: PMC10841886 DOI: 10.1080/17538068.2023.2255408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Promoting COVID-19 vaccination (both the primary series and boosters) remains a priority among healthcare professionals and requires understanding the various sources people trust for acquiring COVID-19 information. METHOD From October 2021 to May 2022, we interviewed 150 people who called 2-1-1 helplines in Connecticut and North Carolina about their COVID-19 testing and vaccination experiences in order to (1) better understand where people obtain trusted COVID-19 health information and (2) identify how public health professionals can share emergency health information in the future. We used a mixed methods approach in which semi-structured qualitative interviews and survey data were collected in parallel and analyzed separately. RESULTS Participants were mostly female (74.0%), Black (43.3%) or White (38.0%), and had a high school degree or higher (88.0%). Most had prior COVID-19 testing experience (88.0%) and were vaccinated (82.7%). A variety of information sources were rated as being very trustworthy including medical professionals and social service organizations. We found that repetition of information from multiple sources increased trust; however, perceived inconsistencies in recommendations over time eroded trust in health communication, especially from government-affiliated information sources. Observations such as seeing long lines for COVID-19 testing or vaccination became internalized trusted information. CONCLUSIONS Public health professionals can leverage the reach and strong community ties of existing, reputable non-government organizations, such as physician groups, schools, and pharmacies, to distribute COVID-19 information about vaccination and testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Kroll
- Health Communication Research Laboratory, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
| | - Amy McQueen
- Health Communication Research Laboratory, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
- Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
| | - Victoria De La Vega
- Health Communication Research Laboratory, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
| | - Alexis K. Marsh
- Health Communication Research Laboratory, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
| | - Tim Poor
- Health Communication Research Laboratory, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
| | | | - Charlene Caburnay
- Health Communication Research Laboratory, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
| | - Matthew W. Kreuter
- Health Communication Research Laboratory, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
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16
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Qu H, Richardson CA, Jani NN, Kromtit N, Karassi B, Vadakkoot S, Terrell J. Factors associated with Medicare beneficiaries' perceptions of COVID-19 and preventive health behaviors: results from winter 2021 MCBS survey. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 33:1568-1579. [PMID: 35979807 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2022.2108385] [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: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluates the impact of preferred information sources on Medicare beneficiaries' perception of COVID-19 severity compared with flu and examines factors influencing preventive health behaviors using the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey (MCBS) winter 2021. Medicare beneficiaries who primarily relied on traditional news, guidance from government officials, and healthcare providers, beneficiaries who were female, older than 65 years, metro residence, or living in the West were more likely to believe that the COVID-19 is more severe than flu and take vaccine than their counterparts. Compared to White, Black and Hispanic were more likely to agree with COVID-19 severity, but less likely to take vaccine. Factors associated with preventive health behavior utilization included perceived severity of COVID-19, primary information source, gender, race, language, annual income, and chronic health conditions. It is crucial to provide accurate information in lay terms to help people understand the importance of taking preventative actions against COVID-19. .
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Qu
- School of Health Professions, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, US
| | - Carole A Richardson
- School of Health Professions, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, US
| | - Nirav N Jani
- School of Health Professions, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, US
| | - Naanlop Kromtit
- School of Health Professions, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, US
| | - Bayan Karassi
- School of Health Professions, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, US
| | - Sherly Vadakkoot
- School of Health Professions, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, US
| | - Joseph Terrell
- School of Health Professions, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, US
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17
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Ali SH, Lowery CM, Trude ACB. Leveraging Multiyear, Geospatial Social Media Data for Health Policy Evaluations: Lessons From the Philadelphia Beverage Tax. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2023; 29:E253-E262. [PMID: 37467151 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000001804] [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: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Public reactions to health policies are vital to understand policy sustainability and impact but have been elusively difficult to dynamically measure. The 2021 launch of the Twitter Academic Application Programming Interface (API), allowing for historical tweet analyses, represents a potentially powerful tool for complex, comprehensive policy analyses. OBJECTIVE Using the Philadelphia Beverage Tax (implemented January 2017) as a case study, this research extracted longitudinal and geographic changes in sentiments, and key influencers in policy-related conversations. DESIGN The Twitter API was used to retrieve all publicly available tweets related to the Tax between 2016 and 2019. SETTING Twitter. PARTICIPANTS Users who posted publicly available tweets related to the Philadelphia Beverage Tax (PBT). MAIN OUTCOME Tweet content, frequency, sentiment, and user-related information. MEASURES Tweet content, authors, engagement, and location were analyzed in parallel to key PBT events. Published emotional lexicons were used for sentiment analyses. RESULTS A total of 45 891 tweets were retrieved (1311 with geolocation data). Changes in the tweet volume and sentiment were strongly driven by Tax-related litigation. While anger and fear increased in the months prior to the policy's implementation, they progressively decreased after its implementation; trust displayed an inverse trend. The 50 tweeters with the highest positive engagement included media outlets (n = 24), displaying particularly high tweet volume/engagement, and public personalities (n = 10), displaying the greatest polarization in tweet sentiment. Most geo-located tweets, reflecting 321 unique locations, were from the Philadelphia region (55.2%). Sentiment and positive engagement varied, although concentrations of negative sentiments were observed in some Philadelphia suburbs. CONCLUSIONS Findings highlighted how longitudinal Twitter data can be leveraged to deconstruct specific, dynamic insights on public policy reactions and information dissemination to inform better policy implementation and evaluation (eg, anticipating catalysts for both heightened public interest and geographic, sentiment changes in policy conversations). This study provides policymakers a blueprint to conduct similar cost and time efficient yet dynamic and multifaceted health policy evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahmir H Ali
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York, New York (Dr Ali); Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina (Ms Lowery); and Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, New York University Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York, New York (Dr Trude)
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18
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Purvis RS, Moore R, Willis DE, Kraleti SS, Gurel-Headley MP, CarlLee S, McElfish PA. Key Conversations and Trusted Information Among Hesitant Adopters of the COVID-19 Vaccine. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2023; 28:595-604. [PMID: 37599458 PMCID: PMC10528835 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2023.2244458] [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: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 vaccines effectively protect against COVID-19-related hospitalization or death, and 67.1% of the US population is fully vaccinated. However, the disparity in COVID-19 vaccination persists among minority and rural populations who often report greater hesitancy about COVID-19 vaccines. This exploratory study aimed to understand and document trusted sources of information about the COVID-19 vaccine among a diverse sample of hesitant adopters with in-depth interviews. Participants (n = 21) described how information from trusted sources influenced their decision to get a COVID-19 vaccine despite being hesitant. Participants reported health care professionals, family members, friends, coworkers, community leaders, public health experts, government officials, and the mainstream media as trusted sources of information about the COVID-19 vaccines. Participants discussed obtaining trusted information from multiple modes, including direct conversations with trusted messengers and public health communications from public influencers who reinforced the information shared with trusted messengers. Notably, participants discussed having multiple conversations with trusted messengers during their decision-making process, and these trusted messengers often facilitated the participants' vaccination process. Study findings highlight the continued need for clear, understandable information about vaccine side effects, safety, and efficacy to address concerns that contribute to vaccine hesitancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel S. Purvis
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Springdale, AR
| | - Ramey Moore
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Springdale, AR
| | - Don E. Willis
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Springdale, AR
| | - Shashank S. Kraleti
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR
| | - Morgan P. Gurel-Headley
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR
- Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR
| | - Sheena CarlLee
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Fayetteville, AR
| | - Pearl A. McElfish
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Springdale, AR
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19
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Courdi C, Ramazan Ali S, Pelletier-Dumas M, Stolle D, Dorfman A, Lina JM, Lacourse É, de la Sablonnière R. How level of understanding and type of used sources relate to adherence to COVID-19 public health measures in Canada. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13065. [PMID: 37567899 PMCID: PMC10421852 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38824-0] [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: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have highlighted the importance of promoting health literacy and minimizing misinformation to encourage higher adherence to key public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study explores how one's self-reported understanding of information and types of sources used to get information regarding COVID-19 can hinder adherence to public health measures implemented by the Canadian government. Data was collected following a longitudinal design of 11 time points for April 2020 to April 2021. The sub-sample used for this study included 2659 Canadians who completed the survey for at least four time points. Using Latent Class Growth Analysis, we modelled typical trajectories of adherence to three key public health measures: staying home, social distancing and mask wearing. Overall, a lower level of understanding was associated with lower adherence trajectories to public health measures, and vice-versa. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) showed that the higher the level of understanding, the higher were the chances of following a high adherence trajectory. The type of used sources also showed a significant statistical association with adherence trajectories for social distancing and staying home (AOR: between 1.1 and 3.4). These results are discussed considering future policy implications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Dietlind Stolle
- Department of Political Science, McGill University, Quebec, Canada
| | - Anna Dorfman
- Departement of Psychology, Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Jean-Marc Lina
- Departement of Electrical Engineering, École de Technologie Supérieure, Montreal, Canada
| | - Éric Lacourse
- Department of Sociology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada.
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20
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Zhou Y, Myrick JG, Farrell EL, Cohen O. Perceived risk, emotions, and stress in response to COVID-19: The interplay of media use and partisanship. RISK ANALYSIS : AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR RISK ANALYSIS 2023; 43:1572-1586. [PMID: 36307383 PMCID: PMC9874794 DOI: 10.1111/risa.14044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Relationships between risk perceptions, emotions, and stress are well-documented, as are interconnections between stress, emotion, and media use. During the early COVID-19 pandemic, the public responded psychologically to the threat posed by the pandemic, and frequently utilized media for information and entertainment. However, we lack a comprehensive picture of how perceived risk, emotion, stress, and media affected each other longitudinally during this time. Further, although response to the pandemic was highly politicized, research has yet to address how partisan affiliation moderated relationships between risk, emotion, stress, and media use over time. This three-wave (N = 1021) panel study assessed the interplay of risk, emotion, stress, and media use for Americans with different political affiliations between March and May of 2020. Findings indicate that perceived risk, emotion, and stress at Time 1 predicted media use at Time 2, with predictors varying by type of media. Use of entertainment media and social/mobile media predicted later stress (Time 3), but news consumption did not. Later risk perceptions (Time 3) were not influenced by media use at Time 2. The predictors and consequences of different types of media use were notably different for Republicans and Democrats. In particular, risk perceptions predicted greater news use among Democrats but greater entertainment media use among Republicans. Moreover, social/mobile media use resulted in perceiving the risks of COVID-19 as less serious for Republicans while increasing stress over time for Democrats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanmengqian Zhou
- Department of Communication StudiesLouisiana State UniversityBaton RougeLouisianaUSA
| | - Jessica Gall Myrick
- Donald P. Bellisario College of CommunicationsPennsylvania State UniversityState College, Centre CountyPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Erina L. Farrell
- Department of Communication Arts and SciencesPennsylvania State UniversityState College, Centre CountyPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Olivia Cohen
- Klein College of Media and CommunicationTemple UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
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21
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Welton-Mitchell C, Dally M, Dickinson KL, Morris-Neuberger L, Roberts JD, Blanch-Hartigan D. Influence of mental health on information seeking, risk perception and mask wearing self-efficacy during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic: a longitudinal panel study across 6 U.S. States. BMC Psychol 2023; 11:203. [PMID: 37430351 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01241-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding factors that influence information seeking, assessment of risk and mitigation behaviors is critical during a public health crises. This longitudinal study examined the influence of self-reported mental health during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic on information seeking, risk perception and perceived mask wearing ability. Mental health screener items included fear, anger, and hopelessness in addition to avoidance, diminished functional ability and global distress. Theoretical models inform hypotheses linking mental health items and outcomes. METHODS The research employed a longitudinal 6-state 3-wave online panel survey, with an initial sample of 3,059 participants (2,232 included in longitudinal analyses). Participants roughly represented the states' age, race, ethnicity, and income demographics. RESULTS Women, those who identified as Hispanic/Latinx, Black Americans and lower income participants reported higher overall rates of distress than others. Information seeking was more common among older persons, Democrats, retirees, those with higher education, and those who knew people who had died of COVID-19. Controlling for such demographic variables, in multivariable longitudinal models that included baseline mental health measures, distress and fear were associated with increased information seeking. Distress and fear were also associated with increased risk perception, and feelings of hopelessness were associated with lower reported mask-wearing ability. CONCLUSIONS Results advance understanding of the role mental health can play in information seeking, risk perception and mask wearing with implications for clinicians, public health practitioners and policy makers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney Welton-Mitchell
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Mail Stop, 13001 E 17th Pl B119, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Miranda Dally
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Mail Stop, 13001 E 17th Pl B119, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Katherine L Dickinson
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Mail Stop, 13001 E 17th Pl B119, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Lindsay Morris-Neuberger
- Communication Studies, West Virginia University, Armstrong Hall, 94 Beechurst Ave STE 108, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Jennifer D Roberts
- School of Public Health, University of Maryland, 4200 Valley Dr, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
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22
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Jessup RL, Bramston C, Putrik P, Haywood C, Tacey M, Copnell B, Cvetanovska N, Cao Y, Gust A, Campbell D, Oldenburg B, Mehdi H, Kirk M, Zucchi E, Semciw AI, Beauchamp A. Frequent hospital presenters' use of health information during COVID-19: results of a cross-sectional survey. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:616. [PMID: 37308996 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09504-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High-frequency hospital users often present with chronic and complex health conditions and are at increased risk of serious morbidity and mortality if they contract COVID-19. Understanding where high-frequency hospital users are sourcing their information, whether they understand what they find, and how they apply the information to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is essential for health authorities to be able to target communication approaches. METHODS Cross-sectional survey of 200 frequent hospital users (115 with limited English proficiency) informed by the WHO's "Rapid, simple, flexible behavioral insights on COVID-19". Outcome measures were source of, and trust in information, and knowledge of symptoms, preventive strategies, restrictions, and identification of misinformation. RESULTS The most frequently cited source of information was television (n = 144, 72%) followed by the internet (n = 84, 42%). One in four television users sought their information from overseas news outlets from their country of origin, while for those using the internet, 56% relied on Facebook and other forms of social media including YouTube and WeChat. Overall, 41.2% of those surveyed had inadequate knowledge about symptoms, 35.8% had inadequate knowledge about preventative strategies, 30.2% had inadequate knowledge about government-imposed restrictions, and 69% believed in misinformation. Half of the respondents (50%) trusted all information, and only one in five (20%) were uncertain or untrusting. English-speaking participants were almost three times more likely to have adequate knowledge about symptoms (OR 2.69, 95%CI 1.47;4.91) and imposed restrictions (OR 2.10 95%CI 1.06; 4.19), and 11 times more likely to recognize misinformation (OR 11.52 95%CI 5.39; 24.60) than those with limited English. CONCLUSION Within this population of high-frequency hospital users with complex and chronic conditions, many were sourcing their information from less trustworthy or locally relevant sources, including social media and overseas news outlets. Despite this, at least half were trusting all the information that they found. Speaking a language other than English was a much greater risk factor for having inadequate knowledge about COVID-19 and believing in misinformation. Health authorities must look for methods to engage diverse communities, and tailor health messaging and education in order to reduce disparities in health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Jessup
- Staying Well and Hospital Without Walls Program, Northern Health, Epping, Australia.
- School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia.
- School of Rural Health, Monash University, Warragul, Australia.
| | - Cassandra Bramston
- Staying Well and Hospital Without Walls Program, Northern Health, Epping, Australia
| | - Polina Putrik
- Department of Family Medicine, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastrich University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Cilla Haywood
- Staying Well and Hospital Without Walls Program, Northern Health, Epping, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Mark Tacey
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Office of Research, Northern Health, Epping, Australia
| | - Beverley Copnell
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
| | - Natali Cvetanovska
- Staying Well and Hospital Without Walls Program, Northern Health, Epping, Australia
- School of Rural Health, Monash University, Warragul, Australia
| | - Yingting Cao
- School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
| | - Anthony Gust
- Digital Health, Northern Health, Epping, Australia
| | - Donald Campbell
- Staying Well and Hospital Without Walls Program, Northern Health, Epping, Australia
| | - Brian Oldenburg
- Academic and Research Collaborative in Health, LaTrobe University, Melbourne, Bundoora, Australia
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Prahran, Australia
| | - Hala Mehdi
- Office of Research, Northern Health, Epping, Australia
| | - Michael Kirk
- Division of Medicine, Rockhampton Hospital, Rockhampton, Australia
| | | | - Adam I Semciw
- School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
| | - Alison Beauchamp
- School of Rural Health, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), The University of Melbourne and Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
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23
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Yang B, Li Y, Yan K, Choi Y, Bennett-Jones B. Analyzing U.S. State Governments' COVID-19 Homepages during the Initial Lockdown in March and April 2020: Information Content and Interactivity. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2023; 38:1327-1337. [PMID: 34852700 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2021.2007574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
During times of a pandemic, government emergency response webpages are an important communication channel and if properly managed, will mitigate pandemic impacts. Guided by the Crisis and Emergency Risk Communication (CERC) framework and web interactivity literature, this study examined the information content and interactivity of U.S. state governments' COVID-19 homepages when many states declared stay-at-home orders in March or April of 2020. Using a web archive service, we retrieved 48 state governments' COVID-19 homepages. Three coders coded these pages for the presence or absence of information content on five dimensions (timely updates, sensemaking information, efficacy information, targeted guidance, and anti-stigma communication) and interactivity on four dimensions (accessibility, navigability, media richness, and engagement). Results revealed that a large proportion of state governments' COVID-19 homepages provided timely information facilitating people's understanding of the pandemic. Yet, there were some information gaps regarding how to cope with the pandemic or its related problems, such as mental stress and social discrimination. While many COVID-19 homepages allowed easy navigation, page engagement and accessibility seemed inadequate. U.S. state governments' COVID-19 homepages could be a good source for sensemaking. Practitioners and researchers should explore how to better harness interactive Internet technologies and present information that fosters people's efficacy to manage through the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Yang
- Department of Communication, University of Arizona
| | - Yachao Li
- Department of Communication Studies, The College of New Jersey
- Department of Public Health, The College of New Jersey
| | - Kun Yan
- Department of Communication, University of Arizona
| | - Yunjin Choi
- Department of Communication, University of Arizona
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Marendić M, Aranza D, Aranza I, Vrdoljak D, Podrug M, Milić M. Determinants of COVID Vaccination Willingness among Health and Non-Health Studies Students: A Cross-Sectional Study. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11050981. [PMID: 37243085 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11050981] [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: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Students, as a relatively health-informed population group, may still have limitations in health literacy, which is a concern as students take increasing responsibility for their health and make independent health decisions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the overall attitudes towards COVID vaccination among university students and to investigate various factors contributing to vaccination willingness among health and non-health studies students. A total of 752 students from the University of Split were included in this cross-sectional study and completed a questionnaire that consisted of three sections: socio-demographic data, health status information, and information on vaccination against COVID-19. Results show that the majority of students of health and natural sciences were willing to be vaccinated, but the majority of students of social sciences were not (p < 0.001). Students who used credible sources of information had a more significant proportion of those willing to be vaccinated and the majority of students who used less credible sources (79%) or did not think about it (68.8%) were unwilling to be vaccinated (p < 0.001). Multiple binary logistic regression modeling shows that female gender, younger age, studying social sciences, negative opinion about the need to reintroduce lockdown and the effectiveness of epidemiological measures, and usage of less credible sources of information were the most important factors contributing to increased vaccination hesitancy. Therefore, improving health literacy and restoring trust in relevant institutions can be critical in health promotion and COVID-19 prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Marendić
- University Department of Health Studies, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | - Diana Aranza
- University Department of Health Studies, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | - Ivan Aranza
- University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | - Dario Vrdoljak
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | - Mario Podrug
- University Department of Health Studies, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | - Mirjana Milić
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia
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25
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Riggs MA, Madni SA, Cornelius J, Zhang A, Czarnik M, Zullig K, Bensley RJ, Gibson-Young L, Gardner M, Waggett CE, Grabeel V, Pettyjohn SJ, Fisher C, Jones RM, Maniccia DM, Doyle J, Treuth M, Neatherlin J, Thomas E, Barrios L. Knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors with mask use and vaccines for COVID-19 prevention at 13 colleges and universities, April 2021. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023:1-11. [PMID: 37130266 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2122719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: To understand college and university student knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors (KAB) regarding COVID-19 prevention strategies. Methods: Thirteen colleges and universities volunteered to conduct an anonymous electronic survey in April 2021 to assess students' KAB about mask use and vaccination to prevent COVID-19. Results: Three-quarters of students indicated they "Always" wore a mask correctly when in public indoor places. Of those not yet vaccinated, 55% expressed concern about unknown side effects. Over half of students were unsure or believe they do not need to continue wearing masks after vaccination and older students more likely to be vaccinated. There was a significant inverse correlation between intention of getting vaccinated and intention to attend a large indoor party without a mask. Conclusions: Colleges and universities are important to community efforts to slow the COVID-19 pandemic. The KAB findings can inform approaches to increase overall mask use and vaccination uptake among young students.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sabrina A Madni
- CDC COVID-19 Emergency Response Team, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- 4ES Corporation, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - January Cornelius
- CDC COVID-19 Emergency Response Team, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- 4ES Corporation, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Amy Zhang
- CDC COVID-19 Emergency Response Team, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, USA
| | - Michaila Czarnik
- CDC COVID-19 Emergency Response Team, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- 4ES Corporation, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Keith Zullig
- West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Vonia Grabeel
- Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, Kentucky, USA
| | | | - Christine Fisher
- East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania, East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Resa M Jones
- Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Jack Doyle
- Lock Haven University, Lock Haven, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Margarita Treuth
- University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Ebony Thomas
- CDC COVID-19 Emergency Response Team, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Lisa Barrios
- CDC COVID-19 Emergency Response Team, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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26
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Theivendrampillai S, Cooper J, Lee T, Lau MWK, Marquez C, Straus SE, Fahim C. Canadian public perceptions and experiences with information during the COVID-19 pandemic: strategies to optimize future risk communications. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:796. [PMID: 37118761 PMCID: PMC10141811 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15659-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the spread of misinformation worldwide. The purpose of this study was to explore perceptions of misinformation and preferred sources of obtaining COVID-19 information from those living in Canada. In particular, we sought to explore the perceptions of East Asian individuals in Canada, who experienced stigma related to COVID-19 messaging. METHODS We conducted a qualitative thematic analysis study. Interviews were offered in English, Mandarin and Cantonese. Interviewers probed for domains related to knowledge about COVID-19, preferred sources of information, perceived barriers and facilitators of misinformation, and preferences for communication during a health emergency. Interviews were recorded, translated, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using a framework approach. Transcripts were independently double-coded until > 60% agreement was reached. This study received research ethics approval. RESULTS Fifty-five interviews were conducted. The majority of participants were women (67%); median age was 52 years. 55% of participants were of East-Asian descent. Participants obtained information about COVID-19 from diverse English and non-English sources including news media, government agencies or representatives, social media, and personal networks. Challenges to seeking and understanding information included: encountering misinformation, making sense of evolving or conflicting public health guidance, and limited information on topics of interest. 65% of participants reported encountering COVID-19 misinformation. East Asian participants called on government officials to champion messaging to reduce stigmatizing and racist rhetoric and highlighted the importance of having accessible, non-English language information sources. Participants provided recommendations for future public health communications guidance during health emergencies, including preferences for message content, information messengers, dissemination platforms and format of messages. Almost all participants preferred receiving information from the Canadian government and found it helpful to utilize various mediums and platforms such as social media and news media for future risk communication, urging for consistency across all platforms. CONCLUSIONS We provide insights on Canadian experiences navigating COVID-19 information, where more than half perceived encountering misinformation on platforms when seeking COVID-19 information . We provide recommendations to inform public health communications during future health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeanette Cooper
- Knowledge Translation Program, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Taehoon Lee
- Knowledge Translation Program, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Christine Marquez
- Knowledge Translation Program, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sharon E Straus
- Knowledge Translation Program, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Christine Fahim
- Knowledge Translation Program, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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27
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McFARLANE SJ, Yook B, Wicke R. Knowledge Gaps, Cognition and Media Learning: Designing Tailored Messages to Address COVID-19 Communication Inequalities. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2023; 28:97-106. [PMID: 37390017 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2023.2208049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Various health and crisis studies have demonstrated support for the existence of knowledge gaps-a hypothesis suggesting that information will reach those in the lower socioeconomic status last, worsening health disparities. At the point at which COVID-19 vaccines were becoming widely accessible, the present study surveyed 651 Black Americans to understand vaccine hesitancy, intentions, and media learning variations after exposure to different types of social media posts about the COVID-19 vaccine. Although exposure to any of the message conditions in our study resulted in a decrease in vaccine hesitancy, we found mixed support for the knowledge gap hypothesis. Results show that lack of knowledge because of socioeconomic status is not a key factor driving vaccine hesitancy among Black Americans. Instead, public communication (government) campaigns may consider focusing on strategies to target Black American communities by age to improve media learning, and consider increasing social control and communal message functions to increase cognitive processing of pro-vaccine messages, and over the longer term, influence COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bora Yook
- College of Arts & Sciences, Fairfield University, Fairfield, Connecticut, USA
| | - Rebekah Wicke
- College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
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28
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Batool-Anwar S, Robbins R, Ali SH, Capasso A, Foreman J, Jones AM, Tozan Y, DiClemente RJ, Quan SF. Examining Changes in Sleep Duration Associated with the Onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Who is Sleeping and Who is Not? Behav Med 2023; 49:162-171. [PMID: 34791993 PMCID: PMC9288172 DOI: 10.1080/08964289.2021.2002800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in social isolation and reports of insomnia. However, reports of changes in sleep duration and associated factors are few. To determine the impact of COVID-19 on changes in sleep behavior, data were analyzed from an online survey of adults recruited via social media that included questions asking whether the respondent slept less or more after the onset of the pandemic as well as self-reported sociodemographic and occupational information; beliefs about COVID-19; and responses pertaining to loneliness, anxiety, and depression. There were 5,175 respondents; 53.9% had a change in sleep duration.17.1% slept less and 36.7% slept more. Sleeping more was related to greater education, being single/divorced/separated, unemployed or a student. Being retired, divorced/separated or a homemaker, and living in the Mountain or Central time zones were associated with less sleep. Beliefs that COVID-19 would result in personal adverse consequences was associated with both more and less sleep. However, the strongest associations for both more and less sleep were seen with depression, anxiety, and loneliness. In summary, changes in sleep duration since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic were highly prevalent among social media users and were associated with several sociodemographic factors and beliefs that COVID-19 would have adverse personal impacts. However, the strongest associations occurred with worse mental health suggesting that improvements may occur with better sleep.Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/08964289.2021.2002800 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Salma Batool-Anwar
- Department of Medicine, Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rebecca Robbins
- Department of Medicine, Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shahmir H Ali
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ariadna Capasso
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joshua Foreman
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
- Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Abbey M Jones
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yesim Tozan
- Global Health Program, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ralph J DiClemente
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Stuart F Quan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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29
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Toumi A, Najaf K, Dhiaf MM, Li NS, Kanagasabapathy S. The role of Fintech firms' sustainability during the COVID-19 period. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:58855-58865. [PMID: 37000397 PMCID: PMC10064951 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26530-3] [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: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
This study investigates the moderating role of environmental disclosures on the market performance of 48 Fintech and 140 non-Fintech firms during the pandemic using data from 2011 to 2022. Ordinary least squares and correlations were used for data analysis. The study's first finding revealed that Fintech firms had a better environmental performance (78.4%) than non-Fintech firms during the pandemic. The study's second finding indicated that environmental disclosures are crucial for shareholders and contributed almost 10.2% to the Fintech firms' market performance during the pandemic. This study's contribution is significant in enhancing the understanding of the shareholders' sensitivity towards sustainability disclosures during financial crisis. The findings of this study are essential for policymakers, start-up entrepreneurs, and shareholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amina Toumi
- Faculty of Business, Liwa College of Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Khakan Najaf
- Department of Accounting and Finance, School of Business, Monash University, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
| | | | - Ng Shir Li
- Sunway University, No. 5. Jalan Universiti Bandar Sunway, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Shenba Kanagasabapathy
- Sunway University, No. 5. Jalan Universiti Bandar Sunway, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Malaysia
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30
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Sklar RP, Goldman RE. "The First Person They Call is Their Pastor": The Role of New York City Faith Leaders in Supporting Their Congregation's Health and Well-Being During COVID-19. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2023:1-20. [PMID: 36917363 PMCID: PMC10011784 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-023-01789-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
This article reports findings from a qualitative study of New York City faith leaders' efforts to mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on their communities during the first two years of the pandemic. Faith leaders were recruited via reputational case sampling to participate in individual, key informant interviews. This study used a social-contextual approach to health promotion by exploring the influence of faith leaders and religious communities on health behaviors. Results suggest that engaged faith leaders worked individually and collaboratively to support the changing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of their religious communities and those in the surrounding area. This study highlights the importance of faith leaders as supporters, communicators, and advocates, and provides directions for future research on the impact of faith leaders on individuals' experiences and health behaviors during a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel P Sklar
- Division of Biology and Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
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31
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Abdel-Qadir H, Austin PC, Sivaswamy A, Chu A, Wijeysundera HC, Lee DS. Comorbidity-stratified estimates of 30-day mortality risk by age for unvaccinated men and women with COVID-19: a population-based cohort study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:482. [PMID: 36915068 PMCID: PMC10010246 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15386-4] [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: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mortality risk following COVID-19 diagnosis in men and women with common comorbidities at different ages has been difficult to communicate to the general public. The purpose of this study was to determine the age at which unvaccinated men and women with common comorbidities have a mortality risk which exceeds that of 75- and 65-year-old individuals in the general population (Phases 1b/1c thresholds of the Centre for Disease Control Vaccine Rollout Recommendations) following COVID-19 infection during the first wave. METHODS We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study using linked administrative datasets in Ontario, Canada. We identified all community-dwelling adults diagnosed with COVID-19 between January 1 and October 31st, 2020. Exposures of interest were age (modelled using restricted cubic splines) and the following conditions: major cardiovascular disease (recent myocardial infarction or lifetime history of heart failure); 2) diabetes; 3) hypertension; 4) recent cancer; 5) chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; 6) Stages 4/5 chronic kidney disease (CKD); 7) frailty. Logistic regression in the full cohort was used to estimate the risk of 30-day mortality for 75- and 65-year-old individuals. Analyses were repeated after stratifying by sex and medical condition to determine the age at which 30-day morality risk in strata exceed that of the general population at ages 65 and 75 years. RESULTS We studied 52,429 individuals (median age 42 years; 52.5% women) of whom 417 (0.8%) died within 30 days. The 30-day mortality risk increased with age, male sex, and comorbidities. The 65- and 75-year-old mortality risks in the general population were exceeded at the youngest age by people with CKD, cancer, and frailty. Conversely, women aged < 65 years who had diabetes or hypertension did not have higher mortality than 65-year-olds in the general population. Most people with medical conditions (except for Stage 4-5 CKD) aged < 45 years had lower predicted mortality than the general population at age 65 years. CONCLUSION The mortality risk in COVID-19 increases with age and comorbidity but the prognostic implications varied by sex and condition. These observations can support communication efforts and inform vaccine rollout in jurisdictions with limited vaccine supplies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Husam Abdel-Qadir
- Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.,University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.,ICES (formerly known as the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences), Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Peter C Austin
- ICES (formerly known as the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences), Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Atul Sivaswamy
- ICES (formerly known as the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences), Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Anna Chu
- ICES (formerly known as the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences), Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Harindra C Wijeysundera
- ICES (formerly known as the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences), Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Douglas S Lee
- University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,ICES (formerly known as the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences), Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Cardiovascular Research Program, Program Lead, ICES, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Room G-106, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada.
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32
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Häfliger C, Diviani N, Rubinelli S. Communication inequalities and health disparities among vulnerable groups during the COVID-19 pandemic - a scoping review of qualitative and quantitative evidence. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:428. [PMID: 36879229 PMCID: PMC9986675 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15295-6] [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: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated health disparities in vulnerable groups (e.g., increased infection, hospitalization, and mortality rates in people with lower income, lower education, or ethnic minorities). Communication inequalities can act as mediating factors in this relationship. Understanding this link is vital to prevent communication inequalities and health disparities in public health crises. This study aims to map and summarize the current literature on communication inequalities linked with health disparities (CIHD) in vulnerable groups during the COVID-19 pandemic and to identify research gaps. METHODS A scoping review of quantitative and qualitative evidence was conducted. The literature search followed the guidelines of PRISMA extension for scoping reviews and was performed on PubMed and PsycInfo. Findings were summarized using a conceptual framework based on the Structural Influence Model by Viswanath et al. RESULTS: The search yielded 92 studies, mainly assessing low education as a social determinant and knowledge as an indicator for communication inequalities. CIHD in vulnerable groups were identified in 45 studies. The association of low education with insufficient knowledge and inadequate preventive behavior was the most frequently observed. Other studies only found part of the link: communication inequalities (n = 25) or health disparities (n = 5). In 17 studies, neither inequalities nor disparities were found. CONCLUSIONS This review supports the findings of studies on past public health crises. Public health institutions should specifically target their communication to people with low education to reduce communication inequalities. More research about CIHD is needed on groups with migrant status, financial hardship, not speaking the language in the country of residence, sexual minorities, and living in deprived neighborhoods. Future research should also assess communication input factors to derive specific communication strategies for public health institutions to overcome CIHD in public health crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Häfliger
- Swiss Paraplegic Research, Guido A. Zäch Strasse 4, Nottwil, Lucerne, 6207, Switzerland. .,Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Frohburgstrasse 3, Lucerne, 6002, Switzerland.
| | - Nicola Diviani
- Swiss Paraplegic Research, Guido A. Zäch Strasse 4, Nottwil, Lucerne, 6207, Switzerland.,Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Frohburgstrasse 3, Lucerne, 6002, Switzerland
| | - Sara Rubinelli
- Swiss Paraplegic Research, Guido A. Zäch Strasse 4, Nottwil, Lucerne, 6207, Switzerland.,Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Frohburgstrasse 3, Lucerne, 6002, Switzerland
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33
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Mitsutake S, Takahashi Y, Otsuki A, Umezawa J, Yaguchi-Saito A, Saito J, Fujimori M, Shimazu T. Chronic Diseases and Sociodemographic Characteristics Associated With Online Health Information Seeking and Using Social Networking Sites: Nationally Representative Cross-sectional Survey in Japan. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e44741. [PMID: 36862482 PMCID: PMC10020913 DOI: 10.2196/44741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In an aging society, worsening chronic diseases increase the burden on patients and the health care system. Using online health information including health information via social networking sites (SNSs), such as Facebook and YouTube, may play an important role in the self-management of chronic diseases and health promotion for internet users. OBJECTIVE This study aims to improve strategies for promoting access to reliable information for the self-management of chronic diseases via the internet, and to identify populations facing barriers to using the internet for health, we examined chronic diseases and characteristics associated with online health information seeking and the use of SNSs. METHODS This study used data from the INFORM Study 2020, which was a nationally representative cross-sectional postal mail survey conducted using a self-administered questionnaire in 2020. The dependent variables were online health information seeking and SNS use. Online health information seeking was assessed using 1 question about whether respondents used the internet to find health or medical information. SNS use was assessed by inquiring about the following 4 aspects: visiting SNSs, sharing health information on SNSs, writing in an online diary or blog, and watching a health-related video on YouTube. The independent variables were 8 chronic diseases. Other independent variables were sex, age, education status, work, marital status, household income, health literacy, and self-reported health status. We conducted a multivariable logistic regression model adjusted for all independent variables to examine the associations of chronic diseases and other variables with online health information seeking and SNS use. RESULTS The final sample for analysis comprised 2481 internet users. Hypertension or high blood pressure, chronic lung diseases, depression or anxiety disorder, and cancer were reported by 24.5%, 10.1%, 7.7%, and 7.2% of respondents, respectively. The odds ratio of online health information seeking among respondents with cancer was 2.19 (95% CI 1.47-3.27) compared with that among those without cancer, and the odds ratio among those with depression or anxiety disorder was 2.27 (95% CI 1.46-3.53) compared with that among those without. Further, the odds ratio for watching a health-related YouTube video among those with chronic lung diseases was 1.42 (95% CI 1.05-1.93) compared with that among those without these diseases. Women, younger age, higher level of education, and high health literacy were positively associated with online health information seeking and SNS use. CONCLUSIONS For patients with cancer, strategies for promoting access to websites with reliable cancer-related information as well as access among patients with chronic lung diseases to YouTube videos providing reliable information may be beneficial for the management of these diseases. Moreover, it is important to improve the online environment to encourage men, older adults, internet users with lower education levels, and those with low health literacy to access online health information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seigo Mitsutake
- Human Care Research Team, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshimitsu Takahashi
- Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Aki Otsuki
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan.,Division of Prevention, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jun Umezawa
- Division of Cohort Research, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akiko Yaguchi-Saito
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan.,Faculty of Human Sciences, Tokiwa University, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Junko Saito
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Maiko Fujimori
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan.,Division of Supportive Care, Survivorship and Translational Research, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taichi Shimazu
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan
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34
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Lühnen J, Frese T, Mau W, Meyer G, Mikolajczyk R, Richter M, Schildmann J, Braunisch MC, Fichtner F, Holzmann-Littig C, Kranke P, Popp M, Schaaf C, Schmaderer C, Seeber C, Werner A, Wijnen-Meijer M, Meerpohl JJ, Steckelberg A. Public information needs and preferences on COVID-19: a cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:394. [PMID: 36849938 PMCID: PMC9969022 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15131-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Right from the beginning of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic the general public faced the challenge to find reliable and understandable information in the overwhelming flood of information. To enhance informed decision-making, evidence-based information should be provided. Aim was to explore the general public's information needs and preferences on COVID-19 as well as the barriers to accessing evidence-based information. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional study. Nine hundred twenty-seven panel members were invited to an online survey (12/2020-02/2021). The HeReCa-online-panel is installed at the Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg to assess regularly the general public's view on health issues in five regions in Germany. The survey was set up in LimeSurvey, with nine items, multiple-choice and open-ended questions that allowed to gather qualitative data. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively and a content analysis was carried out to categorise the qualitative data. RESULTS Six hundred thirty-six panel members provided data; mean age 52 years, 56.2% female, and 64.9% with higher education qualifications. Asked about relevant topics related to COVID-19, most participants selected vaccination (63.8%), infection control (52%), and long-term effects (47.8%). The following 11 categories were derived from the qualitative analysis representing the topics of interest: vaccination, infection control, long-term effects, therapies, test methods, mental health, symptoms, structures for pandemic control, infrastructure in health care, research. Participants preferred traditional media (TV 70.6%; radio 58.5%; newspaper 32.7%) to social media, but also used the internet as sources of information, becoming aware of new information on websites (28.5%) or via email/newsletter (20.1%). The knowledge question (Which European country is most affected by the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic?) was correctly answered by 7.5% of participants. The Robert Koch Institute (93.7%) and the World Health Organization (78%) were well known, while other organisations providing health information were rarely known (< 10%). Barriers to accessing trustworthy information were lack of time (30.7%), little experience (23.1%), uncertainty about how to get access (22.2%), complexity and difficulties in understanding (23.9%), and a lack of target group orientation (15,3%). CONCLUSIONS There are extensive information needs regarding various aspects on COVID-19 among the general population. In addition, target-specific dissemination strategies are still needed to reach different groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Lühnen
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Institute of Health and Nursing Science, Magdeburgerstraße 8, 06112, Halle (Saale), Germany. .,Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Clinic for Internal Medicine I, Halle (Saale), Germany.
| | - Thomas Frese
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Wilfried Mau
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Gabriele Meyer
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Institute of Health and Nursing Science, Magdeburgerstraße 8, 06112, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Rafael Mikolajczyk
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences; Institute of Medical Epidemiology, Biometrics and Informatics, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Matthias Richter
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg; Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences; Institute of Medical Sociology, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Jan Schildmann
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg; Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Institute for History and Ethics of Medicine, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Matthias C Braunisch
- Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Nephrology, Munich, Germany
| | - Falk Fichtner
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, University of Leipzig, Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Christopher Holzmann-Littig
- Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Nephrology, Munich, Germany.,Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine, TUM Medical Education Center, Munich, Germany
| | - Peter Kranke
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Maria Popp
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Christian Schaaf
- Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Nephrology, Munich, Germany
| | - Christoph Schmaderer
- Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Nephrology, Munich, Germany
| | - Christian Seeber
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, University of Leipzig, Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anne Werner
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University of Leipzig, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Marjo Wijnen-Meijer
- Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine, TUM Medical Education Center, Munich, Germany
| | - Joerg J Meerpohl
- Cochrane Germany Foundation, Cochrane Germany, Freiburg, Germany.,Medical Center & Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Evidence in Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Anke Steckelberg
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Institute of Health and Nursing Science, Magdeburgerstraße 8, 06112, Halle (Saale), Germany
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Lee A, Kakoschke N, Higgins L, Reeson A, Brindal E. The invisible burden of managing COVID-19 for Australian women: Cognitive labor and public health information. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1041944. [PMID: 36817933 PMCID: PMC9929454 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1041944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Providing accurate and timely public health information is an ongoing challenge for public health officials. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated such challenges and presented unique difficulties in providing public health information, through the parallel rise of an "infodemic" of mis/dis-information. Understanding why individuals select, use and change their public health information seeking behaviors around COVID-19, and the relationship of these decisions relative to participant characteristics, is therefore an important step in understanding and responding to infodemics. This study used a qualitative survey (n = 255) and free-text qualitative questions to ask (1) Why participants use an information source, (2) How participants used an information source, and (3) How information seeking behavior has changed since the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants were primarily women, born in Australia, with de-facto/married relationships, without children at home, with university/college qualifications, and employed full-time or unemployed/retired. Most participants identified "easiness" and "immediacy" as reasons why they chose and used information, with sources primarily used for planning, communication, and decision making. A minority of participants changed their information seeking behavior since the COVID-19 pandemic. Those who did change, desired more immediate and accurate information. Emergent themes of care and anxiety were also noted, raising questions around the impact of mental load and cognitive labor in some female populations. Women may be suffering from increased cognitive labor and a gendering of public health information seeking behavior in the context of COVID-19. The impact of these attributes on women requires greater empirical research and consideration amongst front line practitioners and public health professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashlin Lee
- Environmental Informatics Group, Environment Department, Commonwealth Science and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Canberra, ACT, Australia,Justice and Technoscience Lab (JusTech), School of Regulation and Global Governance, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia,*Correspondence: Ashlin Lee ✉
| | - Naomi Kakoschke
- Human Health, Health and Biosecurity Department, Commonwealth Science and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Liesel Higgins
- Australian E-Health Research Centre, Health and Biosecurity Department, Commonwealth Science and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Andrew Reeson
- Humans and Machines Department, Data61, Commonwealth Science and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Emily Brindal
- Human Health, Health and Biosecurity Department, Commonwealth Science and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Ruani MA, Reiss MJ. Susceptibility to COVID-19 Nutrition Misinformation and Eating Behavior Change during Lockdowns: An International Web-Based Survey. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15020451. [PMID: 36678321 PMCID: PMC9861671 DOI: 10.3390/nu15020451] [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: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
To understand the susceptibility to nutrition-health misinformation related to preventing, treating, or mitigating the risk of COVID-19 during the initial lockdowns around the world, the present international web-based survey study (15 April-15 May 2020) gauged participants' (n = 3707) level of nutrition-health misinformation discernment by presenting them with 25 statements (including unfounded or unproven claims circulated at the time), alongside the influence of information sources of varying quality on the frequency of changes in their eating behavior and the extent of misinformation held, depending on the source used for such changes. Results revealed widespread misinformation about food, eating, and health practices related to COVID-19, with the 25 statements put to participants receiving up to 43% misinformed answers (e.g., 'It is safe to eat fruits and vegetables that have been washed with soap or diluted bleach'). Whereas higher quality information sources (nutrition scientists, nutrition professionals) had the biggest influence on eating behavior change, we found greater misinformation susceptibility when relying on poor quality sources for changing diet. Appropriate discernment of misinformation was weakest amongst participants who more frequently changed their eating behavior because of information from poor quality sources, suggesting disparities in the health risks/safety of the changes performed.
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Cook EJ, Elliott E, Donald L, Gaitan A, Randhawa G, Cartwright S, Waqar M, Egbutah C, Nduka I, Guppy A, Ali N. Knowledge, perceived risk, and attitudes towards COVID-19 protective measures amongst ethnic minorities in the UK: A cross-sectional study. Front Public Health 2023; 10:1060694. [PMID: 36711414 PMCID: PMC9880421 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1060694] [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: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Minority ethnic groups are at increased risk of COVID-19 related mortality or morbidity yet continue to have a disproportionally lower uptake of the vaccine. The importance of adherence to prevention and control measures to keep vulnerable populations and their families safe therefore remains crucial. This research sought to examine the knowledge, perceived risk, and attitudes toward COVID-19 among an ethnically diverse community. Methods A cross-sectional self-administered questionnaire was implemented to survey ethnic minority participants purposefully recruited from Luton, an ethnically diverse town in the southeast of England. The questionnaire was structured to assess participants knowledge, perceived risk, attitudes toward protective measures as well as the sources of information about COVID-19. The questionnaire was administered online via Qualtrics with the link shared through social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp. Questionnaires were also printed into brochures and disseminated via community researchers and community links to individuals alongside religious, community and outreach organisations. Data were analysed using appropriate statistical techniques, with the significance threshold for all analyses assumed at p = 0.05. Findings 1,058 participants (634; 60% females) with a median age of 38 (IQR, 22) completed the survey. National TV and social networks were the most frequently accessed sources of COVID-19 related information; however, healthcare professionals, whilst not widely accessed, were viewed as the most trusted. Knowledge of transmission routes and perceived susceptibility were significant predictors of attitudes toward health-protective practises. Conclusion/recommendation Improving the local information provision, including using tailored communication strategies that draw on trusted sources, including healthcare professionals, could facilitate understanding of risk and promote adherence to health-protective actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Jane Cook
- School of Psychology, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Erica Jane Cook ✉
| | | | - Louisa Donald
- School of Psychology, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, United Kingdom
| | - Alfredo Gaitan
- School of Psychology, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, United Kingdom
| | - Gurch Randhawa
- Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, United Kingdom
| | - Sally Cartwright
- Public Health Luton, Luton Borough Council, Luton, United Kingdom
| | - Muhammad Waqar
- Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, United Kingdom
| | - Chimeme Egbutah
- Public Health Luton, Luton Borough Council, Luton, United Kingdom
| | - Ifunanya Nduka
- Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, United Kingdom
| | - Andy Guppy
- School of Psychology, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, United Kingdom
| | - Nasreen Ali
- Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, United Kingdom
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Malik A, Bashir F, Mahmood K. Antecedents and Consequences of Misinformation Sharing Behavior among Adults on Social Media during COVID-19. SAGE OPEN 2023; 13:21582440221147022. [PMID: 36699545 PMCID: PMC9852977 DOI: 10.1177/21582440221147022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Misinformation has been existed for centuries, though emerge as a severe concern in the age of social media, and particularly during COVID-19 global pandemic. As the pandemic approached, a massive influx of mixed quality data appeared on social media, which had adverse effects on society. This study highlights the possible factors contributing to the sharing and spreading misinformation through social media during the crisis. Preferred Reporting Items and Meta-Analysis guidelines were used for systematic review. Anxiety or risk perception associated with COVID-19 was one of the significant motivators for misinformation sharing, followed by entertainment, information seeking, sociability, social tie strength, self-promotion, trust in science, self-efficacy, and altruism. WhatsApp and Facebook were the most used platforms for spreading rumors and misinformation. The results indicated five significant factors associated with COVID-19 misinformation sharing on social media, including socio-demographic characteristics, financial considerations, political affiliation or interest, conspiracy ideation, and religious factors. Misinformation sharing could have profound consequences for individual and society and impeding the efforts of government and health institutions to manage the crisis. This SLR focuses solely on quantitative studies, hence, studies are overlooked from a qualitative standpoint. Furthermore, this study only looked at the predictors of misinformation sharing behavior during COVID-19. It did not look into the factors that could curb the sharing of misinformation on social media platforms as a whole. The study's findings will help the public, in general, to be cautious about sharing misinformation, and the health care workers, and institutions, in particular, for devising strategies and measures to reduce the flow of misinformation by releasing credible information through concerned official social media accounts. The findings will be valuable for health professionals and government agencies to devise strategies for handling misinformation during public health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Faiza Bashir
- Government Graduate College for Women, Township, Lahore, Pakistan
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Zhou Y, Zhang A, Liu X, Tan X, Miao R, Zhang Y, Wang J. Protecting public's wellbeing against COVID-19 infodemic: The role of trust in information sources and rapid dissemination and transparency of information over time. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1142230. [PMID: 37139363 PMCID: PMC10149692 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1142230] [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: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study examined how trust in the information about COVID-19 from social media and official media as well as how the information was disseminated affect public's wellbeing directly and indirectly through perceived safety over time. Methods Two online surveys were conducted in China, with the first survey (Time1, N = 22,718) being at the early stage of the pandemic outbreak and the second one (Time 2, N = 2,901) two and a half years later during the zero-COVID policy lockdown period. Key measured variables include trust in official media and social media, perceived rapid dissemination and transparency of COVID-19-related information, perceived safety, and emotional responses toward the pandemic. Data analysis includes descriptive statistical analysis, independent samples t-test, Pearson correlations, and structural equation modeling. Results Trust in official media, perceived rapid dissemination and transparency of COVID-19-related information, perceived safety, as well as positive emotional response toward COVID-19 increased over time, while trust in social media and depressive response decreased over time. Trust in social media and official media played different roles in affecting public's wellbeing over time. Trust in social media was positively associated with depressive emotions and negatively associated with positive emotion directly and indirectly through decreased perceived safety at Time 1. However, the negative effect of trust in social media on public's wellbeing was largely decreased at Time 2. In contrast, trust in official media was linked to reduced depressive response and increased positive response directly and indirectly through perceived safety at both times. Rapid dissemination and transparency of COVID-19 information contributed to enhanced trust in official media at both times. Conclusion The findings highlight the important role of fostering public trust in official media through rapid dissemination and transparency of information in mitigating the negative impact of COVID-19 infodemic on public's wellbeing over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingnan Zhou
- School of Sociology and Ethnology, University of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Beijing, China
- Health and Biosecurity, CSIRO, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Airong Zhang
- Health and Biosecurity, CSIRO, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Xiaoliu Liu
- Faculty of Ideological and Political Education and Moral Education, Beijing Institute of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Xuyun Tan
- Institute of Sociology, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ruikai Miao
- Mental Health Education Center, Shijiazhuang Tiedao University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Institute of Sociology, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Junxiu Wang
- School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Institute of Sociology, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Psychology, Inner Mongolia Normal University, Hohhot, China
- *Correspondence: Junxiu Wang,
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40
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Hill PW, Diamond J, Spiegel AN, VanWormer E, Leadabrand M, McQuillan J. Accuracy of COVID-19 relevant knowledge among youth: Number of information sources matters. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267871. [PMID: 36574374 PMCID: PMC9794086 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Can comics effectively convey scientific knowledge about COVID-19 to youth? What types and how many sources of information did youth have about COVID-19 during the pandemic? How are sources of information associated with accurate COVID-19 knowledge? To answer these questions, we surveyed youth in grades 5-9 in a Midwestern United States school district in the winter of 2020-2021. The online survey used measures of COVID-19 knowledge and sources, with an embedded experiment on COVID-19 relevant comics. Guided by an integrated science capital and just-in-time health and science information acquisition model, we also measured level of science capital, science identity, and utility of science for health and society. The school district protocol required parental consent for participation; 264 of ~15,000 youth participated. Youth were randomly assigned one of four comic conditions before receiving an online survey. Results indicate that, similar to knowledge gains in comic studies on other science topics, reading the comics was associated with 7 to 29% higher accuracy about COVID-19. We found that youth reported getting information about COVID-19 from between 0-6 sources including media, family, friends, school, and experts. The bivariate positive association of news versus other sources with accuracy of knowledge did not persist in the full model, yet the positive association of a higher number of sources and accuracy did persist in the multivariate models. The degree of valuing the utility of science for their health moderated the number of sources to accuracy association. Those with less value on science for health had a stronger positive association of number of sources and accuracy in COVID-19 knowledge. We conclude that during a pandemic, even with health and science information ubiquitous in the news media, increasing youth access to a variety of accurate sources of information about science and health can increase youth knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Wonch Hill
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Nebraska, United States of America,* E-mail:
| | - Judy Diamond
- University Libraries & State Museum, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Amy N. Spiegel
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth VanWormer
- School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, School of Natural Resources, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Meghan Leadabrand
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Julia McQuillan
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Nebraska, United States of America
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Montagni I, Pouymayou A, Pereira E, Tzourio C, Schück S, Texier N, González-Caballero JL. Measuring Digital Vaccine Literacy: Development and Psychometric Assessment of the Digital Vaccine Literacy Scale. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e39220. [PMID: 36515982 PMCID: PMC9798258 DOI: 10.2196/39220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of the internet to look for information about vaccines has skyrocketed in the last years, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic. Digital vaccine literacy (DVL) refers to understanding, trust, appraisal, and application of vaccine-related information online. OBJECTIVE This study aims to develop a tool measuring DVL and assess its psychometric properties. METHODS A 7-item online questionnaire was administered to 848 French adults. Different psychometric analyses were performed, including descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and convergent and discriminant validity. RESULTS We developed the 7-item DVL scale composed of 3 factors (understanding and trust official information; understanding and trust information in social media; and appraisal of vaccine information online in terms of evaluation of the information and its application for decision making). The mean DVL score of the baseline sample of 848 participants was 19.5 (SD 2.8) with a range of 7-28. The median score was 20. Scores were significantly different by gender (P=.24), age (P=.03), studying or working in the field of health (P=.01), and receiving regular seasonal flu shots (P=.01). CONCLUSIONS The DVL tool showed good psychometric proprieties, resulting in a promising measure of DVL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Montagni
- Bordeaux Population Health UMRS1219, University of Bordeaux, Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale, Bordeaux, France
| | - Aude Pouymayou
- Bordeaux Population Health UMRS1219, University of Bordeaux, Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale, Bordeaux, France
| | - Edwige Pereira
- Bordeaux Population Health UMRS1219, University of Bordeaux, Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale, Bordeaux, France
| | - Christophe Tzourio
- Bordeaux Population Health UMRS1219, University of Bordeaux, Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale, Bordeaux, France
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Cooks EJ, Vilaro MJ, Dyal BW, Wang S, Mertens G, Raisa A, Kim B, Campbell-Salome G, Wilkie DJ, Odedina F, Johnson-Mallard V, Yao Y, Krieger JL. What did the pandemic teach us about effective health communication? Unpacking the COVID-19 infodemic. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:2339. [PMID: 36514047 PMCID: PMC9747260 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14707-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The spread of unvetted scientific information about COVID-19 presents a significant challenge to public health, adding to the urgency for increased understanding of COVID-19 information-seeking preferences that will allow for the delivery of evidence-based health communication. This study examined factors associated with COVID-19 information-seeking behavior. METHODS An online survey was conducted with US adults (N = 1800) to identify key interpersonal (e.g., friends, health care providers) and mediated (e.g., TV, social media) sources of COVID-19 information. Logistic regression models were fitted to explore correlates of information-seeking. RESULTS Study findings show that the first sought and most trusted sources of COVID-19 information had different relationships with sociodemographic characteristics, perceived discrimination, and self-efficacy. Older adults had greater odds of seeking information from print materials (e.g., newspapers and magazines) and TV first. Participants with less educational attainment and greater self-efficacy preferred interpersonal sources first, with notably less preference for mass media compared to health care providers. Those with more experiences with discrimination were more likely to seek information from friends, relatives, and co-workers. Additionally, greater self-efficacy was related to increased trust in interpersonal sources. CONCLUSION Study results have implications for tailoring health communication strategies to reach specific subgroups, including those more vulnerable to severe illness from COVID-19. A set of recommendations are provided to assist in campaign development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric J Cooks
- STEM Translational Communication Center, College of Journalism and Communications, University of Florida, Weimer Hall 2043, PO Box 118400, Gainesville, FL, 32611-8400, USA.
| | - Melissa J Vilaro
- Department of Family, Youth, and Community Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Brenda W Dyal
- Department of Biobehavioral Nursing Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Shu Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Gillian Mertens
- STEM Translational Communication Center, College of Journalism and Communications, University of Florida, Weimer Hall 2043, PO Box 118400, Gainesville, FL, 32611-8400, USA
| | - Aantaki Raisa
- STEM Translational Communication Center, College of Journalism and Communications, University of Florida, Weimer Hall 2043, PO Box 118400, Gainesville, FL, 32611-8400, USA
| | - Bumsoo Kim
- Department of Media and Communication, Joongbu University, Geumsan, South Korea
| | | | - Diana J Wilkie
- Department of Biobehavioral Nursing Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Folake Odedina
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, USA
| | | | - Yingwei Yao
- Department of Biobehavioral Nursing Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Janice L Krieger
- STEM Translational Communication Center, College of Journalism and Communications, University of Florida, Weimer Hall 2043, PO Box 118400, Gainesville, FL, 32611-8400, USA
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Sharp MK, Forde Z, McGeown C, O’Murchu E, Smith SM, O’Neill M, Ryan M, Clyne B. Irish Media Coverage of COVID-19 Evidence-Based Research Reports From One National Agency. Int J Health Policy Manag 2022; 11:2464-2475. [PMID: 35042323 PMCID: PMC9818095 DOI: 10.34172/ijhpm.2021.169] [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: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND How research findings are presented through domestic news can influence behaviour and risk perceptions, particularly during emergencies such as the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Monitoring media communications to track misinformation and find information gaps is an important component of emergency risk communication. Therefore, this study investigated the traditional media coverage of nine selected COVID-19 evidence-based research reports and associated press releases (PRs) published during the initial phases of the pandemic (April to July 2020) by one national agency. METHODS NVivo was used for summative content analysis. 'Key messages' from each research report were proposed and 488 broadcast, print, and online media sources were coded at the phrase level. Manifest content was coded and counted to locate patterns in the data (what and how many) while latent content was analysed to further investigate these patterns (why and how). This included the coding of the presence of political and public health actors in coverage. RESULTS Coverage largely did not misrepresent the results of the reports, however, selective reporting and the variability in the use of quotes from governmental and public health stakeholders changed and contextualised results in different manners than perhaps originally intended in the PR. Reports received varying levels of media attention. Coverage focused on more 'human-interest' stories (eg, spread of COVID-19 by children and excess mortality) as opposed to more technical reports (eg, focusing on viral load, antibodies, testing, etc). CONCLUSION Our findings provide a case-study of European media coverage of evidence reports produced by a national agency. Results highlighted several strengths and weaknesses of current communication efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa K. Sharp
- Health Research Board Centre for Primary Care Research, Department of General
Practice, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Zoë Forde
- Health Information and Quality Authority, George’s Court, George’s Lane, Dublin
7, Ireland
| | - Cordelia McGeown
- Health Information and Quality Authority, George’s Court, George’s Lane, Dublin
7, Ireland
| | - Eamon O’Murchu
- Health Information and Quality Authority, George’s Court, George’s Lane, Dublin
7, Ireland
| | - Susan M. Smith
- Health Research Board Centre for Primary Care Research, Department of General
Practice, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Michelle O’Neill
- Health Information and Quality Authority, George’s Court, George’s Lane, Dublin
7, Ireland
| | - Máirín Ryan
- Health Information and Quality Authority, George’s Court, George’s Lane, Dublin
7, Ireland
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Trinity College Dublin, Trinity
Health Sciences, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - Barbara Clyne
- Health Research Board Centre for Primary Care Research, Department of General
Practice, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
- Health Information and Quality Authority, George’s Court, George’s Lane, Dublin
7, Ireland
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Grano C, Singh Solorzano C, Di Pucchio A. Predictors of protective behaviours during the Italian Covid-19 pandemic: an application of protection motivation theory. Psychol Health 2022; 37:1584-1604. [PMID: 35459428 DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2022.2062355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study investigated whether Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) constructs predicted recommended protective behaviours soon after the Italian lockdown and 1-year later. DESIGN A three-wave longitudinal design was used. Three-hundred-fifty-two adults completed online questionnaires with PMT and intention measures assessed during the Italian lockdown (T1), and behaviour measures assessed after 1-month (T2) and 1-year (T3). OUTCOME MEASURES Intentions to adopt behaviours (T1) and behaviour adherence at T2 and T3. RESULTS From T2 to T3, participants reported less adoption of distance behaviours, but higher face masks use. In SEM models, self-efficacy and perceived severity were the strongest predictors of intentions to engage in protective behaviours. Intentions (β = 0.490, p < 0.001) and fear arousal (β = 0.134 p = 0.035) predicted protective behaviours at T2. Intentions (β = 0.302, p = 0.001) and perceived severity (β = 0.431, p < 0.001) predicted protective behaviours at T3. CONCLUSION To increase intentions, intervention should highlight the severity of getting infected and target perceptions of one's ability to perform the protective behaviours. In addition, interventions should consider that at the beginning of the pandemic, fear predicted the adoption of preventive behaviours while perceived severity of the disease had a greater impact over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Grano
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
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Czeisler MÉ, Lane RI, Orellana RC, Lundeen K, Macomber K, Collins J, Varma P, Booker LA, Rajaratnam SM, Howard ME, Czeisler CA, Flannery B, Weaver MD. Perception of Local COVID-19 Transmission and Use of Preventive Behaviors Among Adults with Recent SARS-CoV-2 Infection - Illinois and Michigan, June 1-July 31, 2022. MMWR. MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT 2022; 71:1471-1478. [PMID: 36395064 PMCID: PMC9707356 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm7146a2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, use of preventive behaviors was associated with perceived risk for contracting SARS-CoV-2 infection (1,2). Over time, perceived risk has declined along with waning COVID-19-related media coverage (3,4). The extent to which communities continue to be aware of local COVID-19 transmission levels and are implementing recommended preventive behaviors is unknown. During June 1-July 31, 2022, health departments in DuPage County, Illinois and metropolitan Detroit, Michigan surveyed a combined total of 4,934 adults who had received a positive test result for SARS-CoV-2 during the preceding 3 weeks. The association between awareness of local COVID-19 transmission and use of preventive behaviors and practices was assessed, both in response to perceived local COVID-19 transmission levels and specifically during the 2 weeks preceding SARS-CoV-2 testing. Both areas had experienced sustained high COVID-19 transmission during the study interval as categorized by CDC COVID-19 transmission levels.* Overall, 702 (14%) respondents perceived local COVID-19 transmission levels as high, 987 (20%) as substantial, 1,902 (39%) as moderate, and 581 (12%) as low; 789 (16%) reported they did not know. Adjusting for geographic area, age, gender identity, and combined race and ethnicity, respondents who perceived local COVID-19 transmission levels as high were more likely to report having made behavioral changes because of the level of COVID-19 transmission in their area, including wearing a mask in public, limiting travel, and avoiding crowded places or events. Continued monitoring of public perceptions of local COVID-19 levels and developing a better understanding of their influence on the use of preventive behaviors can guide COVID-19 communication strategies and policy making during and beyond the pandemic.
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Excess Mortality in California by Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Am J Prev Med 2022; 63:827-836. [PMID: 36114132 PMCID: PMC9325680 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2022.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Understanding educational patterns in excess mortality during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may help to identify strategies to reduce disparities. It is unclear whether educational inequalities in COVID-19 mortality have persisted throughout the pandemic, spanned the full range of educational attainment, or varied by other demographic indicators of COVID-19 risks, such as age or occupation. METHODS This study analyzed individual-level California Department of Public Health data on deaths occurring between January 2016 and February 2021 among individuals aged ≥25 years (1,502,202 deaths). Authors applied ARIMA (autoregressive integrated moving average) models to subgroups defined by the highest level of education and other demographics (age, sex, race/ethnicity, U.S. nativity, occupational sector, and urbanicity). Authors estimated excess deaths (the number of observed deaths minus the number of deaths expected to occur under the counterfactual of no pandemic) and excess deaths per 100,000 individuals. RESULTS Educational inequalities in excess mortality emerged early in the pandemic and persisted throughout the first year. The greatest per-capita excess occurred among people without high-school diplomas (533 excess deaths/100,000), followed by those with a high-school diploma but no college (466/100,000), some college (156/100,000), and bachelor's degrees (120/100,000), and smallest among people with graduate/professional degrees (101/100,000). Educational inequalities occurred within every subgroup examined. For example, per-capita excess mortality among Latinos with no college experience was 3.7 times higher than among Latinos with at least some college experience. CONCLUSIONS Pervasive educational inequalities in excess mortality during the pandemic suggest multiple potential intervention points to reduce disparities.
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Yang Q, Cao W. Health Disparities in Online COVID-19 Information Seeking and Protective Behaviors: A Two-Wave Longitudinal Study. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2022; 37:1534-1543. [PMID: 35410563 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2022.2056980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 outbreak was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization and claimed hundreds of thousands of lives in the U.S. However, the adoption of protective behaviors in response to COVID-19 varies among sociodemographic groups. To better understand the disparities in U.S. adults' adoption of protective behaviors in relation to sociodemographic factors, we conducted a two-wave panel survey in the U.S. Although sociodemographic factors were not found to be significant predictors in lagged regression analysis, results from a cross-sectional analysis showed that the White, younger, and higher educated individuals were more likely to take protective behaviors. Furthermore, based on the structural equation modeling, indirect effects were observed. Specifically, online COVID-19 information seeking mediated the effects of age and education on performance of protective behaviors, and subjective norms and online COVID-19 information seeking were found to be significant serial mediators of these relationships. The study not only extends the health disparities and health information seeking literature, but also offers practical insights to health campaigns and interventions promoting protective behaviors during a pandemic and reducing health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinghua Yang
- Department of Communication Studies, Bob Schieffer College of Commuication, Texas Christian University
| | - Weidan Cao
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University
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Bassler JR, Redden DT, Hall AG, Ford ET, Chrapah S, Erwin PC. COVID-19 Vaccine Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices in Alabama: The Case for Primary Health Care Providers. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2022; 28:631-638. [PMID: 36037510 PMCID: PMC9555587 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000001556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine knowledge, attitudes, and practices about COVID-19 in Alabama, with a primary focus on vaccination perception and utilization. DESIGN We used a COVID-19 Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices survey and recruited adult Alabama residents in April-May 2021. PARTICIPANTS Initial surveys from 1324 Alabamian participants were considered for analysis; after careful review of incomplete responses, 953 were ultimately included for analysis. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Vaccine behavior and hesitancy comprise a self-reported response contained in the survey instrument. Three primary vaccine groups were used to assess differences in demographic characteristics, health status, perception of susceptibility and severity of COVID-19, sources of information, and trust about COVID-19. RESULTS Of the 953 survey participants included for analysis, 951 had self-identified vaccine status in which 153 (16.1%) reported to have received the vaccine at the time of the survey, 375 (39.4%) were very likely or somewhat likely to get an approved COVID-19 vaccine if it was offered, and 423 (44.5%) were somewhat unlikely or very unlikely to get an approved COVID-19 vaccine. Health care providers were the most trusted sources of information, regardless of vaccine status. For participants unlikely to receive a vaccine, social media and local news sources were consistently more trusted and utilized than those who were vaccinated or were likely to be. CONCLUSIONS The perceptions among unvaccinated participants are actionable and provide teachable opportunities to decrease vaccine apprehension.
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Affiliation(s)
- John R. Bassler
- Departments of Biostatistics (Mr Bassler and Dr Redden) and Health Care Organization & Policy (Dr Ford), School of Public Health (Dr Erwin), and Department of Health Services Administration (Dr Hall and Ms Chrapah), School of Health Professions, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - David T. Redden
- Departments of Biostatistics (Mr Bassler and Dr Redden) and Health Care Organization & Policy (Dr Ford), School of Public Health (Dr Erwin), and Department of Health Services Administration (Dr Hall and Ms Chrapah), School of Health Professions, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Allyson G. Hall
- Departments of Biostatistics (Mr Bassler and Dr Redden) and Health Care Organization & Policy (Dr Ford), School of Public Health (Dr Erwin), and Department of Health Services Administration (Dr Hall and Ms Chrapah), School of Health Professions, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Eric T. Ford
- Departments of Biostatistics (Mr Bassler and Dr Redden) and Health Care Organization & Policy (Dr Ford), School of Public Health (Dr Erwin), and Department of Health Services Administration (Dr Hall and Ms Chrapah), School of Health Professions, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Sandra Chrapah
- Departments of Biostatistics (Mr Bassler and Dr Redden) and Health Care Organization & Policy (Dr Ford), School of Public Health (Dr Erwin), and Department of Health Services Administration (Dr Hall and Ms Chrapah), School of Health Professions, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Paul C. Erwin
- Departments of Biostatistics (Mr Bassler and Dr Redden) and Health Care Organization & Policy (Dr Ford), School of Public Health (Dr Erwin), and Department of Health Services Administration (Dr Hall and Ms Chrapah), School of Health Professions, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
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Rosa DAC, de Sousa SS, da Silva MNR, Gamboge LRR, Deusdará R, Lapa J. Knowledge about COVID-19 and Associated Factors Early in the Outbreak among the Brazilian Population. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13824. [PMID: 36360703 PMCID: PMC9659023 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192113824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
(1) Background: In Brazil, the first case of the novel coronavirus occurred on the 25 February 2020, and since then, it has spread rapidly over the entire country. During a pandemic, knowledge, attitudes, and practices are expected to largely influence the adherence to non-pharmacological interventions (NPIs). We evaluated the knowledge about COVID-19 and associated factors early in the outbreak among the Brazilian population. (2) Methods: A Brazilian cross-sectional study was carried out using an online questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of the following topics: isolation, caring for someone sick at home, cleaning habits, disinfecting habits, and true and fake news. Logistic regression was conducted using sociodemographic and associated factors as the independent variables and a knowledge score as the dependent variable to estimate factors associated with knowledge about COVID-19. Crude, sex-, and age-adjusted odds ratios (OR) were calculated. (3) Results: Participants with a better educational status had higher odds of having a higher knowledge score (OR = 2.49, 95% CI = 1.15-5.37). Similarly, healthcare providers (health students and professionals) had higher odds of having higher scores regarding knowledge about COVID-19 (OR = 1.62, 95% CI = 1.05-2.48) than other counterparts. Of the wrong answers, the most frequent was the isolation period, followed by household recommendations to prevent COVID-19 and cleaning habits. (4) Conclusions: In conclusion, our study suggests that a higher educational status and being a healthcare provider are conditions associated with superior knowledge about COVID-19. In addition, inadequate knowledge related to isolation, COVID-19 prevention, and cleaning habits were found in our study. We believe that improving awareness to address these specific COVID-19 issues through a health education campaign is a significant approach for public health policymakers to fight against COVID-19 in Brazil.
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Socan M, Erčulj VI. Confronting SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Patients' Experience in the First Pandemic Wave-Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12743. [PMID: 36232041 PMCID: PMC9566657 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to investigate the real-life experience of persons infected with SARS-CoV-2 in Slovenia in the first pandemic wave and how the buffering effect of social and informational support affected negative feelings. We used a self-administrated questionnaire. There were 1182 eligible notified cases with the response rate 64.9%. At least 62% of responders were able to follow the isolation rules, while 21.1% did not or could not organize their living separately from other household members. The main providers during the isolation period were close family members. The most prevalent emotion in our study was worry (70.3%) and fear (37.6%). Worry and fear during the illness were less probable for men than women, but more probable for older patients. Participants with strong emotional support had lower odds of being sad. Those who were exposed to a larger number of sources of information had higher odds of being worried. Those patients who used a higher number of more credible sources of information had higher odds of being afraid during illness. Pets did not play a special role in psychological well-being. The role of the media and public health communications should be explored further to achieve an improved response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Socan
- National Institute of Public Health, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Vanja Ida Erčulj
- Faculty of Criminal Justice and Security, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
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