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Guo J, Shu L, Wen W, Xu G, Zhan L, Yan M, Long T, Fan Z, Wu J, Xiao B. The influencing factors of hearing protection device usage among noise-exposed workers in Guangdong Province: a structural equation modeling-based survey. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1044. [PMID: 38622576 PMCID: PMC11017596 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18428-7] [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: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are numerous complex barriers and facilitators to continuously wearing hearing protection devices (HPDs) for noise-exposed workers. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the relationship between HPD wearing behavior and hearing protection knowledge and attitude, HPD wearing comfort, and work-related factors. METHOD A cross-sectional study was conducted with 524 noise-exposed workers in manufacturing enterprises in Guangdong Province, China. Data were collected on hearing protection knowledge and attitudes, HPD wearing comfort and behavior, and work-related factors through a questionnaire. Using structural equation modeling (SEM), we tested the association among the study variables. RESULTS Among the total workers, 69.47% wore HPD continuously, and the attitudes of hearing protection (26.17 ± 2.958) and total HPD wearing comfort (60.13 ± 8.924) were satisfactory, while hearing protection knowledge (3.54 ± 1.552) was not enough. SEM revealed that hearing protection knowledge had direct effects on attitudes (β = 0.333, p < 0.01) and HPD wearing behavior (β = 0.239, p < 0.01), and the direct effect of total HPD wearing comfort on behavior was β = 0.157 (p < 0.01). The direct effect also existed between work shifts and behavior (β=-0.107, p < 0.05). Indirect relationships mainly existed between other work-related factors, hearing protection attitudes, and HPD wearing behavior through knowledge. Meanwhile, work operation had a direct and negative effect on attitudes (β=-0.146, p < 0.05), and it can also indirectly and positively affect attitudes through knowledge (β = 0.08, p < 0.05). CONCLUSION The behavior of wearing HPD was influenced by hearing protection knowledge, comfort in wearing HPD, and work-related factors. The results showed that to improve the compliance of noise-exposed workers wearing HPD continuously when exposed to noise, the HPD wearing comfort and work-related factors must be taken into consideration. In addition, we evaluated HPD wearing comfort in physical and functional dimensions, and this study initially verified the availability of the questionnaire scale of HPD wearing comfort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyu Guo
- Guangdong Province Hospital for Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Guangzhou, China
| | - Linyan Shu
- Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, , China
| | - Wei Wen
- Guangdong Province Hospital for Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guoyong Xu
- Guangdong Province Hospital for Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lichun Zhan
- Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Maosheng Yan
- Guangdong Province Hospital for Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Guangzhou, China
| | - Taihua Long
- Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhixing Fan
- Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junle Wu
- Guangdong Province Hospital for Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Xiao
- Guangdong Province Hospital for Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Guangzhou, China.
- Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, , China.
- Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.
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Feder K, Marro L, Portnuff C. Leisure noise exposure and hearing outcomes among Canadians aged 6 to 79 years. Int J Audiol 2023; 62:1031-1047. [PMID: 36036440 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2022.2114022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the association between individual and cumulative leisure noise exposure in addition to acceptable yearly exposure (AYE) and hearing outcomes among a nationally representative sample of Canadians. DESIGN Audiometry, distortion-product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) and in-person questionnaires were used to evaluate hearing and leisure noise exposure across age, sex, and household income/education level. High-risk cumulative leisure noise exposure was defined as 85 dBA or greater for 40 h or more per week, with AYE calculations also based on this occupational limit. STUDY SAMPLE A randomised sample of 10,460 respondents, aged 6-79, completed questionnaires and hearing evaluations between 2012 and 2015. RESULTS Among 50-79 year olds, high-risk cumulative leisure noise was associated with increased odds of a notch while high exposure to farming/construction equipment noise was associated with hearing loss, notches and absent DPOAEs. No associations with hearing loss were found however, non-significant tendencies observed included higher mean hearing thresholds, notches and hearing loss odds. CONCLUSION Educational outreach and monitoring of hearing among young and middle-aged populations exposed to hazardous leisure noise would be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katya Feder
- Non-Ionizing Radiation Health Sciences Division, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology Program, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Leonora Marro
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Cory Portnuff
- UCHealth Hearing and Balance Clinic, Aurora, CO, USA
- Otolaryngology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
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3
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Crawford K, Willenbring K, Nothwehr F, Fleckenstein S, Anthony TR. Evaluation of hearing protection device effectiveness for musicians. Int J Audiol 2023; 62:238-244. [PMID: 35143376 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2022.2035831] [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: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate musicians' personal attenuation and perceptions of three types of hearing protection devices (HPDs): formable foam earplugs and both non-custom and custom versions of uniform attenuation earplugs (UAEs) marketed to musicians. DESIGN A mixed-methods approach was used to evaluate the HPDs. Audiometric testing obtained hearing levels at baseline and with each HPD across frequencies (125-8000 Hz) to determine personal attenuation ratings and uniformity of attenuation. Participants completed surveys over six months regarding how often they used the HPDs and their perceptions about wearing them. STUDY SAMPLE Twenty-four musicians were recruited to participate. RESULTS Substantial variability was observed in the attenuation achieved among participants for each HPD type, but custom UAEs provided the most consistent attenuation across frequencies. Participants' HPD preferences were influenced by multiple factors including personal instrument and specific activity. Custom UAEs were most frequently used but usage rates continually decreased over the 6-month period. CONCLUSIONS Fit-testing is important to determine fit and sizing. Combining information on the effectiveness of HPDs with musicians' opinions about wearing them can inform recommendations for which types may be the most effective and feasible options for reducing sound exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Crawford
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Krista Willenbring
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Faryle Nothwehr
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Stephanie Fleckenstein
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - T Renee Anthony
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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Fauzan NS, Sukadarin EH, Widia M, Irianto I, Ghazali I. A Systematic Literature Review of the Factors Influencing Hearing Protection Device Usage among Industrial Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2934. [PMID: 36833630 PMCID: PMC9965930 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20042934] [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: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
This systematic literature review (SLR) aims to determine the factors influencing the use of hearing protection devices (HPDs) among industrial workers. This study was guided by the PRISMA Statement (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) review method, and four databases comprising Scopus, Science Direct, PubMed, Wiley Online Library, and Google Scholar were employed. A total of 196 articles were identified, and 28 studies on the factors associated with HPD use among industrial workers from 2006 to 2021 met the inclusion criteria. Resultantly, five main themes emerged from this review: sociodemographic (29%), interpersonal influences (18%), situational influences (18%), cognitive-perceptual (29%), and health-promoting behavior (6%) associated with HPD use among industrial workers. A total of 17 sub-themes were identified, including age, gender, educational level, noise level, working experience, social models, interpersonal support, social norms, safety climate, training, organizational support, perceived barrier, perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefit, self-efficacy, and cues to action. The significant factors influencing workers to use HPDs are sociodemographic, interpersonal influences, situational influences, and health-promoting behavior. Future studies should focus on the cues to action toward human behavior influencing the use of HPDs, workers' health status, and comorbidities of hearing loss. Therefore, this systematic study gives valuable reference resources for up-and-coming researchers as well as new knowledge to expert professionals and academics in various industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Syafiqah Fauzan
- Faculty of Industrial Sciences and Technology, University Malaysia Pahang, Lebuh Persiaran Tun Khalil Yaakob, Kuantan 26300, Pahang, Malaysia
| | - Ezrin Hani Sukadarin
- Faculty of Industrial Sciences and Technology, University Malaysia Pahang, Lebuh Persiaran Tun Khalil Yaakob, Kuantan 26300, Pahang, Malaysia
| | - Mirta Widia
- Faculty of Industrial Sciences and Technology, University Malaysia Pahang, Lebuh Persiaran Tun Khalil Yaakob, Kuantan 26300, Pahang, Malaysia
| | - Irianto Irianto
- Department General Education, Faculty of Resilience, Rabdan Academy, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 114646, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ihwan Ghazali
- Faculty of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering Technology, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Hang Tuah Jaya, Durian Tunggal 76100, Malaysia
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Stroh O, Thomas G, Peters TM, Tatum M. Design and testing of a personalized noise monitoring system. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2023; 20:120-128. [PMID: 36445186 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2022.2152036] [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: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Agricultural workers are more prone to noise-induced hearing loss than are many other workers. Hearing protection device use among agricultural workers is low, but training can increase hearing protection device use. This work proposes a system designed to automatically inform agricultural workers when they were exposed to noises that exceed the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommended exposure level. The smartphone-based system worn on the arm uses a noise dosimeter to measure noise exposures throughout the day to within ±2 A-weighted decibels of a Class 2 sound level meter. The device collects location and audio data, which are transferred to a server and presented to the worker on a locally hosted website. The website details noise exposure and helps the worker identify where exposure occurred and what specific tasks exceed NIOSH's recommended exposure limit, putting them at higher risk of noise-induced hearing loss. With this understanding, the worker is expected to adopt behavior changes and better hearing protection use at critical places and times. This pilot study evaluates the accuracy of the noise dosimeter and GPS relative to gold-standard instruments. The system was tested on a farm with outputs compared with gold-standard instruments. A-weighted, 1-sec averaged sound pressure levels and position data were collected while users were performing a variety of tasks indoors and outdoors. The smartphone's external noise dosimeter read within ±2 A-weighted decibels of the Class 2 reference dosimeter 59% of the time. The positioning devices had an average error of sub-4 m. While not perfectly matching gold-standard instruments, the device is capable of identifying and collecting information relative to loud noise events that promote noise-induced hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Stroh
- Industrial and Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Geb Thomas
- Industrial and Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Thomas M Peters
- Occupational and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Marcus Tatum
- Industrial and Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
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Ridge LJ, Stefanovsky NJ, Trautner KL, McCullagh MC. Motivational Interviewing to Encourage Agricultural Producers' Use of Hearing Protection Devices: A Mixed-Method Feasibility Study. Workplace Health Saf 2022; 70:446-451. [PMID: 35673706 PMCID: PMC9511903 DOI: 10.1177/21650799221096992] [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: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Workers in production agriculture are frequently exposed to high noise levels and face unique barriers to implementing hearing protection, leading to occupational hearing loss. Motivational interviewing is a promising approach to assist workers in preserving their hearing. METHODS This pilot study used a mixed-method approach to evaluate the feasibility of an innovative motivational interviewing intervention for agricultural producers from February to May 2021. Qualitative data included coaches' and participants' comments and were coded using a structural coding approach. Quantitative data included Likert-type-style responses given by participants in a post-intervention survey. Data types were then integrated. RESULTS Sixteen participants were recruited during the 4-month pilot. Participants' satisfaction scores averaged above six on a 7-point scale for all satisfaction questions. Implementation factors included the intervention's flexibility, services provided by the coaches beyond motivational interviewing, and difficulties with recruitment. CONCLUSIONS/APPLICATIONS TO PRACTICE This motivational interviewing intervention was highly acceptable to participants, but factors affecting implementation may challenge scalability.
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Rudolphi J, Campo S, Janssen B, Ramirez M, Wang K, Rohlman D. A Test of Social Cognitive Theory to Increase Hearing Protection Use in Swine Buildings. J Agric Saf Health 2022; 28:215-228. [PMID: 38077618 PMCID: PMC10703054 DOI: 10.13031/jash.15183] [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] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Farming ranks among the top occupations for which workers are at risk for noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), an irreversible yet preventable condition. Hearing Protection Devices (HPDs) (i.e., earmuffs and ear plugs) are effective at preventing expo- sure to noise; however, few farmers report consistent use. The purpose of this study was to test an intervention based on Social Cognitive Theory with interactive smartphone technology to increase the use of HPDs among swine facility workers. A pilot, quasi-experimental study was implemented among 72 younger adult swine workers. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups. Group 1 received HPDs (e.g., earmuffs and ear plugs). Group 2 received the same HPDs as Group 1 and was also instructed to use a smartphone application to track their use of hearing protection for 60 days. Group 3 received the HPDs and instructions on using a smartphone app for tracking the use of hearing protection and setting daily goals for hearing protection use. Use of hearing protection was assessed via an online survey prior to the intervention (i.e., "baseline"), immediately after the post-intervention, and at a 3-month follow-up. Compared to baseline use, all three groups reported increased use of hearing protection immediately post-intervention. However, this increase was not maintained at a 3-month follow-up for two of the study groups. Group 3 (HPD, tracking, and goal-setting app) showed the greatest increase in the use of HPDs from baseline to immediate post-intervention; however, Group 1 (HPD only) showed the greatest sustained increase from baseline to the 3-month follow-up. Modifying the environment by supplying HPDs was effective in increasing HPD use among swine facility workers. Improving access to hearing protection devices alone may lead to sustained changes in behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josie Rudolphi
- Agricultural and Biological Engineering, University of Illinois, Urbana, USA
- University of Iowa, Iowa City, USA
| | | | - Brandi Janssen
- Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, USA
| | - Marizen Ramirez
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Kai Wang
- Biostatistics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, USA
| | - Diane Rohlman
- Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, USA
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Couth S, Mazlan N, Moore DR, Munro KJ, Dawes P. Hearing Difficulties and Tinnitus in Construction, Agricultural, Music, and Finance Industries: Contributions of Demographic, Health, and Lifestyle Factors. Trends Hear 2020; 23:2331216519885571. [PMID: 31747526 PMCID: PMC6868580 DOI: 10.1177/2331216519885571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
High levels of occupational noise exposure increase the risk of hearing difficulties and tinnitus. However, differences in demographic, health, and lifestyle factors could also contribute to high levels of hearing difficulties and tinnitus in some industries. Data from a subsample (n = 22,936) of the U.K. Biobank were analyzed to determine to what extent differences in levels of hearing difficulties and tinnitus in high-risk industries (construction, agricultural, and music) compared with low-risk industries (finance) could be attributable to demographic, health, and lifestyle factors, rather than occupational noise exposure. Hearing difficulties were identified using a digits-in-noise speech recognition test. Tinnitus was identified based on self-report. Logistic regression analyses showed that occupational noise exposure partially accounted for higher levels of hearing difficulties in the agricultural industry compared with finance, and occupational noise exposure, older age, low socioeconomic status, and non-White ethnic background partially accounted for higher levels of hearing difficulties in the construction industry. However, the factors assessed in the model did not fully account for the increased likelihood of hearing difficulties in high-risk industries, suggesting that there are additional unknown factors which impact on hearing or that there was insufficient measurement of factors included in the model. The levels of tinnitus were greatest for music and construction industries compared with finance, and these differences were accounted for by occupational and music noise exposure, as well as older age. These findings emphasize the need to promote hearing conservation in occupational and music settings, with a particular focus on high-risk demographic subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Couth
- Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Naadia Mazlan
- Faculty of Engineering, School of Civil Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Malaysia
| | - David R Moore
- Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, UK.,Communication Sciences Research Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Centre, OH, USA
| | - Kevin J Munro
- Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, UK.,Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Piers Dawes
- Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, UK
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Khan KM, Evans SS, Bielko SL, Rohlman DS. Efficacy of technology-based interventions to increase the use of hearing protections among adolescent farmworkers. Int J Audiol 2017; 57:124-134. [PMID: 28918682 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2017.1374568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Adolescent farmworkers are exposed to loud noise during farm activities. We present a prospective study that evaluated the efficacy of low-cost, technology-based intervention approaches in high schools to enhance the use of hearing protection among adolescent farmworkers. DESIGN Six high schools in Iowa that agreed to participate in the study were divided into three equal groups through cluster-randomisation with each group receiving one of the three formats of hearing protection intervention: (a) classroom training, (b) classroom training coupled with smartphone app training and (c) computer training. Participants completed baseline (pre-training) and six-week post-intervention surveys for assessing hearing protection knowledge, attitudes and behaviour. STUDY SAMPLE Seventy participants from six schools were initially enrolled but 50 completed both pre- and post-intervention surveys. RESULTS In most cases, all three groups showed significant improvement in hearing protection knowledge, attitude and frequency of use from pre- to post-intervention. However, changes between groups were statistically non-significant. CONCLUSIONS Although all three formats led to improvements on hearing protection knowledge, attitude and behaviour, the findings of the study, perhaps due to the small sample size, did not allow us to detect whether technology-based hearing protection interventions were more effective than the traditional face-to-face training for adolescent farmworkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid M Khan
- a Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health , Indiana University , Bloomington , IN , USA and
| | - Sydney S Evans
- a Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health , Indiana University , Bloomington , IN , USA and
| | - Sylvanna L Bielko
- a Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health , Indiana University , Bloomington , IN , USA and
| | - Diane S Rohlman
- b Occupational and Environmental Health , College of Public Health, The University of Iowa , Iowa City , IA , USA
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10
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Mbuagbaw L, Aves T, Shea B, Jull J, Welch V, Taljaard M, Yoganathan M, Greer-Smith R, Wells G, Tugwell P. Considerations and guidance in designing equity-relevant clinical trials. Int J Equity Health 2017; 16:93. [PMID: 28583125 PMCID: PMC5460332 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-017-0591-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Health research has documented disparities in health and health outcomes within and between populations. When these disparities are unfair and avoidable they may be referred to as health inequities. Few trials attend to factors related to health inequities, and there is limited understanding about how to build consideration of health inequities into trials. Due consideration of health inequities is important to inform the design, conduct and reporting of trials so that research can build evidence to more effectively address health inequities and importantly, ensure that inequities are not aggravated. In this paper, we discuss approaches to integrating health equity-considerations in randomized trials by using the PROGRESS Plus framework (Place of residence, Race/ethnicity/culture/language, Occupation, Gender, Religion, Education, Socio-economic status, Social capital and "Plus" that includes other context specific factors) and cover: (i) formulation of research questions, (ii) two specific scenarios relevant to trials about health equity and (iii) describe how the PROGRESS Plus characteristics may influence trial design, conduct and analyses. This guidance is intended to support trialists designing equity-relevant trials and lead to better design, conduct, analyses and reporting, by addressing two main issues: how to avoid aggravating inequity among research participants and how to produce information that is useful to decision-makers who are concerned with health inequities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence Mbuagbaw
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada. .,Biostatistics Unit, Father Sean O'Sullivan's Research Centre, St Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, 50 Charlton Avenue East, 3rd Floor Martha Wing, Room H321, Hamilton, ON, L8N 4A6, Canada.
| | - Theresa Aves
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Beverley Shea
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Center for Practice Changing Research and School of Epidemiology, Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Janet Jull
- University of Ottawa and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, 501 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M2, Canada
| | - Vivian Welch
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada.,School of Epidemiology, Public Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Monica Taljaard
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Manosila Yoganathan
- Bruyère Research Institute, Bruyère Continuing Care and University of Ottawa, 85 Primrose, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Regina Greer-Smith
- Healthcare Research Associates, 2700 Concord Place, Hazel Crest, IL, USA
| | - George Wells
- School of Epidemiology, Public Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,Cardiovascular Research Methods Centre, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, ON, K1Y4W7, Canada.,Department of Medicine Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Peter Tugwell
- School of Epidemiology, Public Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada.,Department of Medicine Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,WHO Collaborating Centre for Knowledge Translation and Health Technology Assessment in Health Equity, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
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McCullagh MC, Banerjee T, Yang JJ, Bernick J, Duffy S, Redman R. Gender differences in use of hearing protection devices among farm operators. Noise Health 2016; 18:368-375. [PMID: 27991469 PMCID: PMC5227018 DOI: 10.4103/1463-1741.195803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Although farm operators have frequent exposure to hazardous noise and high rates of noise-induced hearing loss, they have low use of hearing protection devices (HPDs). Women represent about one-third of farm operators, and their numbers are climbing. However, among published studies examining use of HPDs in this worker group, none have examined gender-related differences. The purpose of this study was to examine gender-related differences in use of hearing protection and related predictors among farm operators. Materials and Methods: Data previously collected at farm shows and by telephone were analyzed using t-tests and generalized linear model with zero inflated negative binomial (ZINB) distribution. Findings: The difference in rate of hearing protector use between men and women farm operators was not significant. There was no difference between men and women in most hearing protector-related attitudes and beliefs. Conclusion: Although men and women farm operators had similar rates of use of hearing protectors when working in high-noise environments, attitudes about HPD use differed. Specifically, interpersonal role modeling was a predictor of HPD use among women, but not for men. This difference suggests that while farm operators of both genders may benefit from interventions designed to reduce barriers to HPD use (e.g., difficulty communicating with co-workers and hearing warning sounds), farm women have unique needs in relation to cognitive-perceptual factors that predict HPD use. Women farm operators may lack role models for use of HPDs (e.g., in peers and advertising), contributing to their less frequent use of protection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tanima Banerjee
- University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - James J Yang
- University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Janice Bernick
- University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sonia Duffy
- The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Richard Redman
- University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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12
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Markham CM, Craig Rushing S, Jessen C, Gorman G, Torres J, Lambert WE, Prokhorov AV, Miller L, Allums-Featherston K, Addy RC, Peskin MF, Shegog R. Internet-Based Delivery of Evidence-Based Health Promotion Programs Among American Indian and Alaska Native Youth: A Case Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2016; 5:e225. [PMID: 27872037 PMCID: PMC5138449 DOI: 10.2196/resprot.6017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2016] [Revised: 10/15/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) youth face multiple health challenges compared to other racial/ethnic groups, which could potentially be ameliorated by the dissemination of evidence-based adolescent health promotion programs. Previous studies have indicated that limited trained personnel, cultural barriers, and geographic isolation may hinder the reach and implementation of evidence-based health promotion programs among AI/AN youth. Although Internet access is variable in AI/AN communities across the United States, it is swiftly and steadily improving, and it may provide a viable strategy to disseminate evidence-based health promotion programs to this underserved population. Objective We explored the potential of using the Internet to disseminate evidence-based health promotion programs on multiple health topics to AI/AN youth living in diverse communities across 3 geographically dispersed regions of the United States. Specifically, we assessed the Internet’s potential to increase the reach and implementation of evidence-based health promotion programs for AI/AN youth, and to engage AI/AN youth. Methods This randomized controlled trial was conducted in 25 participating sites in Alaska, Arizona, and the Pacific Northwest. Predominantly AI/AN youth, aged 12-14 years, accessed 6 evidence-based health promotion programs delivered via the Internet, which focused on sexual health, hearing loss, alcohol use, tobacco use, drug use, and nutrition and physical activity. Adult site coordinators completed computer-based education inventory surveys, connectivity and bandwidth testing to assess parameters related to program reach (computer access, connectivity, and bandwidth), and implementation logs to assess barriers to implementation (program errors and delivery issues). We assessed youths’ perceptions of program engagement via ratings on ease of use, understandability, credibility, likeability, perceived impact, and motivational appeal, using previously established measures. Results Sites had sufficient computer access and Internet connectivity to implement the 6 programs with adequate fidelity; however, variable bandwidth (ranging from 0.24 to 93.5 megabits per second; mean 25.6) and technical issues led some sites to access programs via back-up modalities (eg, uploading the programs from a Universal Serial Bus drive). The number of youth providing engagement ratings varied by program (n=40-191; 48-60% female, 85-90% self-identified AI/AN). Across programs, youth rated the programs as easy to use (68-91%), trustworthy (61-89%), likeable (59-87%), and impactful (63-91%). Most youth understood the words in the programs (60-83%), although some needed hints to complete the programs (16-49%). Overall, 37-66% of the participants would recommend the programs to a classmate, and 62-87% found the programs enjoyable when compared to other school lessons. Conclusions Findings demonstrate the potential of the Internet to enhance the reach and implementation of evidence-based health promotion programs, and to engage AI/AN youth. Provision of back-up modalities is recommended to address possible connectivity or technical issues. The dissemination of Internet-based health promotion programs may be a promising strategy to address health disparities for this underserved population. Trial Registration Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01303575; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01303575 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6m7DO4g7c)
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Markham
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | | | - Cornelia Jessen
- Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium, Anchorage, AK, United States
| | - Gwenda Gorman
- Inter Tribal Council of Arizona, Inc., Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Jennifer Torres
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | | | | | | | | | - Robert C Addy
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Melissa F Peskin
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ross Shegog
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
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